“INVENTORY AND REPORT”

It’s hard to believe that we are just a few days from closing out 2019. The year is ending, and the last quarter of the year is too. For businesses, that means it’s inventory and report time. What all did they sale, how much is left, and what did they make. It sounds simple, but it requires a lot of detailed work to get an accurate report. This report helps them know what to prepare for in the next year. Things like where to set their budgets, what is left over that still needs to be moved, and establish a clear vision for 2020.

What if we did the same thing but on a personal level. Why don’t we spend a little bit of time taking inventory and creating a report to close our year out? You can have your own list of things you’d like to know about, but here are just a few ideas.

How well did I treat others?
Did I increase my prayer life?
Was I consistent in Bible reading?
How well did I share the gospel?
What other books did I read, and which ones are unfinished?
Did I manage my finances well?
Was I faithful in tithing and giving to those in need?
Did I experience personal improvement?
Did I manage my time well?
Has there been an improvement in my marriage? (If applicable.)
Have I taken proper care of my health?

Again, these are a few things that I’m looking at as 2019 comes to an end. My suggestion is that you make yourself a personal list and answer each question honestly. How you close, this year will help you transition into the next one. Take inventory, create a report, and establish a personal vision for what you want to accomplish in 2020.

“SAFE AND SOUND DOCTRINE”

It’s interesting to have theological conversations with people who base their decisions on emotions versus the Bible. Some don’t have a choice because they have no Biblical knowledge whatsoever. I’m not trying to be rude, but unfortunately, they’ve had no teaching or training in the Word of God. Therefore, all of their decisions are based on what they feel about God instead of what they know. It doesn’t make me angry; honestly, it makes me sad. We have so much work to do as the body of Christ. The gospel must be preached, and those of us that have a knowledge of God and Bible understanding, we must be busy. I know not everyone will accept it, but our job is to share it.

In this fast rhythm of life, people are so busy; many are not taking the time to build an authentic relationship with Jesus. They seem to be lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of God. Sound familiar? Yes, that’s a scripture about how it will be before the Lord returns. Because of that, so many see God through their opinion of life. Someone told me recently, I think God wants me to have fun, and if I just do my best, I’ll be fine. There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. Proverbs 16:25

No matter what you think about God or your opinion about what will happen in the end, everyone will be judged according to His Word. Don’t be fooled by a feeling or misled by your emotions. Build or rebuild a relationship with Him right away. Don’t be caught up in some crazy wind of false doctrine that is blowing. Be faithful to the things that will cause you to grow. Find a church that preaches sound doctrine and a pastor that can interpret the scriptures. Get involved in serving and helping others. Create a safe lifestyle for you and your family. The return of our Lord is very soon; make sure you know what it takes to be ready to go with Him.

“FOR THE SAKE OF MINISTRY”

I want to see the Kingdom of God advance like never before. My desire is to see His church grow and expand all over the world. For this to happen, we must have workers committed to the cause of Christ. It is crucial that we raise up ministers who will stand in the gap and make a difference in people’s lives by sharing the gospel. When I say we need ministers, I’m not necessarily referring to more preachers, but more individuals who are willing to serve.

When you look up the word minister, you will find that it simply means to serve. A true minister is someone that is serving in the body of Christ. That is the reason I say we are in need of more ministers. We need church members who are not just attending faithfully but also serving faithfully. There is such a variety of ways to minister in the Kingdom of God today, and the time is right for as many that will join in and help.

You will never find the time to serve; you have to be intentional and make the time. When you set up your weekly list of things to do, is volunteering in your church on the list? I encourage the people I lead, to just give an amount of time they can work and we’ll do the rest. You would be surprised what all the church can do when everyone is committed to serving.

Since it’s Friday, why not make sure you’re involved in some way to serve this weekend. I can promise you, there is a lot to do, no matter if your church is large or small. Don’t just show up as a member, show up as a minister because that’s exactly what you are. From the parking lot to the nursery, from the stage to the doors where people are welcomed. Every area is a significant part of growing the Kingdom of God. You have a gift to minister, where are you currently serving?

Mark 10:45
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”