Back from the Sword Conference (Aug 02, 2010)
Karen and I returned from Walkertown, North Carolina on Saturday afternoon after attending the Natonal Sword of the Lord Conference at Gospel Light Baptist Church. It was great to spend time with many of our friends. God blessed in both Karen's session and my preaching time. We both felt the liberty of the Spirit and the prayers of God's people. Dr. Shelton Smith said, and I agree, that the conference had perhaps the best spirit ever. It was a great time of spiritual refreshment.
Before leaving, Karen and I had the privilege of leading Rick to the Lord. Rick was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. He is currently under aggressive chemotherapy that is taking a heavy toll. All of this motivated Rick to make sure that he was on his way to heaven. We praise God for opening his eyes. We are praying for his recovery in order that we might disciple him in the things of God.
The chairman of our deacons, Denny Henderson, was able to lead a soul to Christ Thursday night on visitation. We praise the Lord for deacons who are soul winners!
Yesterday, the Lord blessed with good numbers in spite of the fact that it was the last vacation weekend of summer. We had 570 in Sunday School and 635 for the morning worship. A good number of soldiers this week prayed to receive Christ. We are thankful for the fruit of this vibrant ministry.
Today, our teachers report at 8:00 AM to begin the 32nd year of Grace Christian School. Students report for the first day of classes on Thursday morning. Pray that God will help us be a help to the students that He sends our way.
The Academy of Arts made their annual pilgrimage to Columbus on Wednesday night. Their presentation, as always, was superb. One of our members was motivated to help them with some significant equipment needs.
Jamie and Terrie Snider, missionaries with Rock of Ages, returned their home base to Columbus and joined Grace Baptist Church. We are thrilled to have the Sniders back home with us.
Last night we were able to raise a good chunk of money to help John Pinnix, one of our missionaries in the remote regions of Alaska. As God lays him upon your heart, pray for Brother Pinnix this week that God will help him accomplish the building needs that are pressing.
Thanks so much for your continued interest in this ministry.