Having A Life Verse
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Do you have a life verse? Since I was about 18 years old, I have claimed Proverbs 3:5-6 as significant verses for my life. As you know, there are three direct commands in the verses - trust - lean not - acknowledge Him. I must tell you that I have found myself tested everyday by these commands and on certain days considered changing to a new verse that was not so demanding. But to be honest with you, I really need these directives, trust–lean not–acknowledge Him. I have found that when I’m committed to these three commands, God always does His part, “He will make your paths straight.” I can look back over the years of my life and see that He has ordered my footsteps, taking me places I never dreamed I would go, including the role I presently serve in.
I encourage you to select a life verse if you haven’t already. Select a verse that you can hide in your heart and remember in your head. A verse that will remind you of God’s mission and purpose for your life. Revisit it often. Ponder it, proclaim it and practice it. (There’s a message outline for you). Let me throw in another “P” word, enjoy the payoff! Trust and obey, for there is no other way; To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. Now there’s a song from the past. Guest what? It still works!
PRESBYTERY UPDATE
In May, the Network Presbytery met. It was a historic meeting as we welcomed two recently elected regional presbyters: Joe Pearson, Willamette Valley Region and Brian Steller, Southern Region. It is worth noting that Brian Steller represents the third generation of the Steller family to serve on the Oregon Network Presbytery. Both Joe and Brian come to the table with experience and insights that will help us thrive. In addition, we welcomed 10 newly selected Young Leaders. I am greatly encouraged by the quality of young leaders we have in Oregon.
One very positive and provocative discussion we had was on the opportunity and obligation for Network ministry support. They enthusiastically affirmed the practice and principle of our ministers tithing and our churches financial partnership. It is clear for us, together, to fulfill our mission as a Network, both of these streams of financial support are necessary and required. Here is a reminder of how this is to work for the Oregon Ministry Network:
1. Ministers Tithe: Credentialed ministers in the Network are to send 3/4th of their monthly tithe to the Oregon Ministry Network. The principle of “tithing up” is one of the foundational truths of spiritual and economic reward.
2. Network Church Partners: Local Network churches are asked to contribute to the ongoing ministry of the Oregon Ministry Network. This allows the Network to operate effectively and efficiently. Churches can participate in one of the following ways.
VENTURE PARTNER Church
Contributes 2% or more of monthly General Income
VISION PARTNER Church
Contributes 1% of monthly General Income
VALUED PARTNER Church
Contributes $1.00 per attendee each month
By selecting one of these options, each of us take action to help our network fulfill our mission.
2010 NETWORK INTERMISSION. January 25-27, 2010 in Seaside. Presenters include: Lee McFarland of Radiant Church in Surprise, Arizona and Phil and Maria Carney of Pendleton First Assembly of God.
ONE on ONE COACHING Now Offered
The Oregon Ministry Network, in partnership with Ministry Coaching International, is now offering affordable One on One Coaching specifically designed for our OMN ministers. There are still openings for this life-enriching and leadership-enhancing experience. To receive more information, contact our Lead Coach, Joy Wilson at joy [at] ministrycoaching [dot] org.
CAMP MEETING AT BROOKS ASSEMBLY – June 21-24, 2009
Evangelists Ormel and Sandi Chapin.
For RV info…contact Brooks Assembly (503-393-2155).
KIDS AND YOUTH CAMPS – SUMMER '09
ROYAL RANGER POW WOW - August 6-9
- Location: Camp Wildcat
GIRLS MINISTRIES UNDER THE STARS CAMP - August 17-19
- Location: Drift Creek Camp, Lincoln City
- Speaker: Susie Starr
SENIOR SUMMER RETREAT - August 27-29
Back by popular demand … a special retreat is being planned for our Oregon Network seniors.
LEAD PASTORS SELECTED
Dave and Kaci Bullis-Christ Community Church, Beaverton
Jon and Dot Hagebush-Metro Assembly of God, Portland
Don and Paula Blatchley - Harlan Chapel of the Valley, Blodgett
OREGON MISSIONARY FAMILY
A reminder to not list missionaries in sensitive countries on your church website. If you need to know which missionaries are serving in sensitive countries, please contact the Network Office.
I continue to stand on the promise that ...the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. Proverbs 11:28
You are loved.
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