This past week, I was reminded again of a simple but important truth from Proverbs: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps” (Prov. 16:9 ESV).
That reminder came from a conversation with a friend and prompted me to reflect on the path God has led me on in ministry. When I was elected executive editor of the Baptist Trumpet, I shared with the association that this was never something I had set out to pursue, but I have recognized that the Lord had been preparing me for this role and, in His timing, placed me here to serve. From the beginning of my ministry, my goal has been simple — to be faithful wherever God asks me to serve. To the best of my ability, that has been my aim through each opportunity He has provided.
Along the way, I have often been reminded of a phrase that has stayed with me: God does not call us to success or failure, but to faithfulness — leaving the results in His hands.
That perspective has been especially meaningful during these weeks of Special Emphasis.
As we come to the close of our focused emphasis during March and April, I am thankful for the way our churches and individuals have responded. To date, $10,951 has been given through 29 gifts from churches, individuals, and ministry groups across our association toward our $15,000 goal.
That is an encouraging step forward, and I am grateful for every church, individual, and group who has participated.
At the same time, I am reminded that this effort has never been solely about reaching a number. It has been about faithfulness — being willing to respond, to participate, and to steward what God has entrusted to us.
Over the past several weeks, we have reflected on what it means to move from connection to commitment. We have been reminded that connection often begins in small ways — through stories, through awareness, through prayer — and that over time, those small moments help strengthen our shared work.
And that work continues. Week after week, as we stay connected to what God is doing across our churches, we are encouraged, reminded, and strengthened in ways we may not always fully see.
While our focused emphasis is during March and April, we will continue to count special offerings toward this year’s goal through the end of our fiscal year on August 31. There will still be opportunities to participate in the weeks ahead.
More importantly, there will continue to be opportunities to be faithful — in the small things, in staying engaged, and in supporting the work God has given us to share together. Because when we are faithful, God is able to use those efforts in ways far greater than we can see.
That is our desire through the Baptist Trumpet — to serve as Your Connection to the Mission, helping inform, inspire, and involve our churches in what God is doing. May we continue to be faithful in that work together. Thank you for being part of it.
A Word of Thanks and Encouragement
Pastors, thank you for the many ways you faithfully serve your churches and invest in your people. Your leadership plays an important role in helping maintain the connection we share across our association.
Please continue to pray that God will use this ministry to strengthen that connection and to help more people see and engage in what He is doing.
2026 Special Emphasis • Goal — $15,000
Previously Reported $9,526
Dewey/Rita Kelley $75
Bodcaw, Rosston $1,000
Judy Burns $250
Gary Gipson $100
Total to Date $10,951
