Can you believe it has been one year since we began our full-time work with you here at Noble? It is difficult for me to believe our first year is behind us, because time has passed by so quickly. I do look forward to the future because the more I get to know each of you, the more I am convinced God has given Noble congregation so much talent. So here is the question I am asking you, “What does the future look like to you?” Over the past year, have you grown spiritually and have a deeper understanding of God’s Word and plan for your life?
For any establishment, whether it be a business, sports team or even a congregation, to have success, there must be four aspects considered regularly. There needs to be a goal, a plan, an action and a review.
We are blessed as a congregation that God has given us all four. Our goal is to be faithful in all things. Our plan is to reach souls, which leads right into our action; to be evangelistic. The fourth aspect is our review, and that is where I would like your help.
My faith in God’s ability to bring growth to each of us is immeasurable, but there is one thing God will not do and that is to interfere with our free will. I believe He provides us opportunities, but doesn’t make us do anything against our will. He does, however, give each of us many reasons why we should want to let His will be our own.
It has been said, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” To this I heard an older preacher wisely add, “Brethren, we need to add some salt to his feed!” In other words, create a greater thirst. As we reflect over the past year, would you say you have acquired a greater thirst for God and His Word?
Jesus had a conversation with a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well that changed her life. (John 4: 5-30) Jesus spoke to her about the living water that the Lord Himself gives everyone freely, but they must want to drink of it.
The result of this brief visit is remarkable. This sinful woman, who had come to get water, left her water pot and became a voice for her Lord. Jesus told her that an hour was coming and now is, when true worshipers would worship the Father “in spirit and truth.” Jesus spoke to her as one with authority and as a prophet. She was so convinced, she went into the city and told the men to come and see for themselves, this is the Christ. He knows everything about everybody yet comes to bring salvation to all those who are willing to drink water that leads to eternal life.
My question is; have I added any salt to your oats? Through sharing God’s Word with you and striving to share Jesus’ love with you, has your thirst for knowledge about Jesus and His church increased? If so, I am very thankful, and I ask you to continue to grow still more. If not, please pray for me even more. A year ago, as I stood before you, my only request was that you would earnestly pray for Trish and me because we cannot do this work without God and without your prayers. We love and appreciate you all so very much.
In Christ,
Steve
NOBLE CHURCH OF CHRIST
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