The Wright Word
May-June 2007

Insights from On Mission with God

The boOn Mission with God by Avery Willis and Henry Blackaby is worth reading.

The writers remind us that “It is important for us to remember that God’s purpose is to redeem humankind and regain His kingdom (pg. 68).  To accomplish that fact, each MBA pastor and each believer will have to make adjustments in our lives in order to join God in His mission.  “An encounter with God will always require action on your part,” (pg. 69).  We need to continue leading our church members and leaders to regain urgency for conversion growth that reduces the population of Hell.

Associational Missions Week

The month of May provides opportunity to emphasize associational missions in your church. I have posted an Introduction to the MBA powerpoint on our web page. Please take opportunity to share with your members about the need for cooperative missions in Mobile and beyond. All of our staff is available to you year round to fill the pulpit or provide training and consultation.

Addine Maynard Offering for WMU

My sweetheart (and wife), reminded me to mention it is time to support the Addine Maynard offering. These funds are sent to the local WMU and are managed by their leadership council.  Check with your area WMU representative for a copy of the WMU budget and the ministries these funds support.

International Ministry Center (IMC) Update

Look for brother Garry Harred’s article in this newsletter for an update on the exciting things occurring with our International Ministries. Please contact interim director Bobby Morton to schedule a time for your youth and adults to participate in local International missions.  Please continue your financial support of the IMC supplemental budget as we continue to provide evangelistic ministry to seafarers and Internationals.

“(The tongue) is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”

James 3:5-8 shows that pastor James was working with Baptists. He had to warn them (and us) to carefully control our tongue. Many of the Proverbs of Solomon also advise us to watch what we say. Christians need to be careful to guard our tongues against gossip, rumor, manipulation, and lies. Gossip is sharing what may be true but usually has a negative connotation. A rumor is sharing information that is unconfirmed and harmful to fellowship. Manipulation is sharing partial truth and incomplete information to get the desired decision. Lies are sharing an untruth to advance an agenda. Satan is the father of lies. Each of these can become habits even in believers. Each of them lure us from godliness into pettiness and divisive politics. Make it your habit to focus on the truth. Always go to the source to confirm information before spreading untruths or partial truths. Never say about someone what you will not say to someone. Seek to be an encourager and a healer.

It is a joy to serve together to make an eternal difference in Mobile.

In the Lamb,

Bro. Thomas