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One thing I’ve learend about myself is I need to pause for breath.  So starting three months ago, I scheduled each month one day to work away from the office, away even from my study, in a different environment, where I can hear from God, think farther out than my next message, column, teaching moment, or blog!

I had originally planned to go to Charleston today and think on my boat.  Out on the water, I really do feel God’s presence so much more.  But the threat of rain kept me away from the water.  So I’ve spent some time in Columbia at a library and at Panera Bread (nothing like the smell of carbs!).

Here’s what’s come to me so far:

A great verse from my quiet time:  With my God, I can scale a wall - 2 Samuel 30:22.  WOW. Do you hear that promise?    I’ve been thinking about the walls I face in my life - some relationship walls, some walls I have about trusting God - God will help me!  I’ve thought about walls our church faces - How do we help more people take their next step toward Jesus?  We’ve been stuck around 1,000 for too long.  BUT with God’s help we can scale the wall, break the barrier and help people take their next step.  God can use you and me to help people!

I’ve been thinking about our mission as a church - I have a deep burden for people to know fellowship in Christ.  That’s the whole purpose of Bible Community.  Several months ago, God put a burden on the hearts of the staff that we need to emphasize this more.  Clay has done a fantastic job strengthen group life - even though its not really his job!  But starting Oct. 14, I’ll be doing a series on Time for Life - its all about making time for friendship, connections, and truth in our lives.  Sunday morning Bible Community can really help in these things.

I’ve been thinking about my own role as a leader.  I’ve been reminded again that if the leader isn’t growing, whatever he or she is leading isn’t growing either.  That applies at work, in marriage, in families, in our groups, and especially in church.  I’ve reached the stage where the easy growth is behind me - Now, growth for me is about facing the walls that exist in my soul - but with God, I can scale any wall!!!!

Thanks for being a great church.  Pray I’ll be wise, strong, and mature to lead the great flock of God called Alice Drive!