A big thank you goes out to Bro. Hershel and the Bridge’s mission-minded people for the invitation to share State Missions and to preach the morning message. As I have stated before, anytime that is convenient to you is a good time to give me a call, and I would be happy to share what God is doing through your State Missions work.
Prayer Request
We want to begin a new work with a team approach, so if you have considered planting a church, now would be a good time to be the first to help us put this new concept to the test. I know that when I served as a state missionary, it would have been a tremendous blessing and help to have someone on my team with the same desires as mine. As the Bible so plainly states in Eccl. 4:9-12, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” We are in a position to start this type of work as soon as God raises up the men to undertake it.
A Busy Week Coming
I will begin a three-night revival at Macedonia in Jonesboro Monday, Aug. 18 through Wednesday, Aug. 20. Please keep their pastor, Don Seat, and this congregation in your prayers. Additionally, I will be filling in for Grace Temple, located east of Paragould on Sunday, Aug. 24.
From Our Missionaries
Ebenezer, West Little Rock: Ruben Isturiz writes, “I’m thankful to God for giving us safe travels on our family vacation! For the first time in many years, we included a Sunday in our trip, which allowed us to visit a church in Alabama before continuing to Florida.
“We had an excellent service last Sunday. We prayed for our students as they prepare to go “Back to School”, asking for their wisdom, protection and to be a good example to non-believers. It was a great blessing to see a good attendance and that the congregation remained active despite our absence during our vacation. This filled me with joy, confirming that we are on the right track in leadership development at this stage of Ebenezer’s mission.
“Since Moises Rico has been leading the Celebration services, I have been able to observe and analyze the people who attend each Sunday. This past Sunday, I stopped to look at each face, and I can see how each one of them has been reached by the Word of God and ministered to by us. None have been brought in from another congregation. God has granted us genuine growth with non-believers and people who were disconnected.
“We ask that you continue to pray for us, that we may continue to develop leadership and sow the good seed during the week. May God grant us growth, for only He can draw to Ebenezer those who are His. To God be the Glory!”
Faith Chapel, Flippin: Johnny Shew writes, “We had a great week at Faith Chapel with a good number and a great time of worship!
“Our adult Sunday School has been well attended in its first two weeks and is going great! Our teacher, Brother Russell, is doing a really good job. Our youth program has faced some attendance challenges lately, which we anticipated due to summer travel. However, with school starting back next week, we expect attendance to improve. We have adjusted our Sunday School (SS) and Worship Service times to 9 a.m. and 10:10 a.m., respectively, to ensure sufficient time for the SS lesson.
“We are planning to go to Joplin this Saturday to get the playground equipment that I told you about last week, it will be quite a job, but we think we are prepared and up to the task.
Next Sunday morning, we will have a baptism. Praise God! Not much else out of the ordinary to report this week, just trying to be faithful where the Lord has placed us. We thank you all for your prayers and support! And we thank God for you! In Christ’s Love.”
Faith Journey, Benton: Bryan Clay writes, “Just as quickly as it began, summer has drawn to a close, and the start of the school year is here once again. We ended the summer with a short trip to Texas to visit family, enjoying both fishing and relaxation. The highlight came when my son caught a 56-pound flathead catfish on a rod and reel — a once-in-a-lifetime catch and a memory we’ll never forget.
“This week, ten men gathered in the loft at The Cabin for our biweekly Bible study. It’s inspiring to see men coming together to strengthen their walk with God and encourage one another in faith. Some of these men are beginning to learn how to disciple others. The women’s Bible study is also growing strong. Our ladies are lifting one another up in prayer and praise as they are learning in depth about the women of the Bible and how we can relate to them today.
“Amid the busy back-to-school season, we took time to enjoy a night of fellowship to celebrate birthdays for five of our folks. Together, we enjoyed pizza and a review of the book of Joshua. We refreshed our knowledge, challenged each other in our understanding, and enjoyed the blessing of several first-time visitors over the last few weeks.
“Please join us in praying over the students, teachers and school staff as they begin a new academic year — praying for God’s protection, guidance and blessing as they help shape young minds.”
Misión Gracia Soberana (Sovereign Grace), NWA:Roberto Marcelletti writes, “Greetings sisters and brothers in Christ. The week began with a very good attendance at the women’s ministry meeting. They continued studying the Book of James. Every Monday, the sisters enthusiastically completed their homework and shared it with the others.
“Thursday, in our small group in Springdale, the brothers asked if we could begin the prayer service at church. We will begin this prayer service on Thursdays in September.
Saturday at 10:30 a.m., we met for a devotional, followed by a very special time of prayer for the needs of our church.
On Sunday, in Sunday school, despite a few absences, we were able to discuss the gospel as the central message we carry as a church. Each candidate for membership should be clear about what the gospel is. We learned this definition: The gospel is the message that Jesus lived, died and rose again to save sinners. If you repent and believe in Jesus, God will save you.
“We ask for your prayer because we need men who are committed to living for Christ.”
Epic Life, Pea Ridge: Jake McCandless writes “I love this time of year. That summer lull vanished, and now there aren’t enough hours in the day for all the conversations and follow-up.
“Both of our Connection Groups had banner nights this week. Our Garfield group packed the house for a special fellowship meal, and our other group saw incredible momentum, too. Then we came together for a powerful collective worship service. The question from the message: “Do you love Jesus?” Sure, we all said yes — but we also admitted sometimes we serve and stay “on mission” out of habit or duty — and that’s not the same thing as loving Him. That hit home. I had a deep conversation with a couple praying about opening their home for a Bible study, and I’m chasing down a long list of people who reached out about Epic Life. Plus, we spent some rich time with our missionary coaches dreaming and strategizing next steps. God is moving! We’re seeing the fruit of a lot of work, and we’re just trying to keep up.”
