1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
Now, we’ve all had our fair share of struggles. Life sometimes feels like trying to outrun a bear in a pair of flip-flops—downright impossible and a little bit ridiculous. But here’s the thing: God knows our limits better than we do. He’s not in the business of seeing us fail; He’s in the business of building us up, even when we think we’re about to break.
When temptation sneaks up on you like a stray dog sniffing at your back door, remember that God’s already got a way out mapped for you. It may not be flashy, but it’s there, like that one back road you always take when the main highway’s jammed up. It’s the way that’ll get you through without a scratch, as long as you trust the map He’s given you.
So next time you find yourself in the thick of it, don’t just look at the problem. Look for the way out. God’s put it there just for you, and you can trust that He knows exactly what you can handle. As Lewis Grizzard might say, “Life’s tough, but so are you, especially with the Good Lord leading the way.” And like Michael Joe Harvell would remind us, “There’s always hope because God’s always faithful.”
Hold on tight to that promise, and remember, you’re never walking this road alone.
Eureka Baptist Church – Discover Hope, Healing, Happiness And Home!
Hello, dear friends! Today, I want to talk about something close to my heart and undoubtedly vital for the spiritual journey of countless believers: the incredible blessings and benefits of being part of a smaller congregation. I have had the privilege of Pastoring churches of every shape and size. Every church is special and has its advantages and challenges, but today I want to take a few moments to focus on the benefits of a small church congregation. You see, in our fast-paced world where bigger often seems better, it’s easy to overlook the profound and unique advantages that smaller churches bring to the table. So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of small congregations and uncover a few of the gems hidden within these close-knit communities.
1. Authentic Community and Genuine Relationships
One of the greatest strengths of a smaller congregation is the authentic community it fosters. In a small church, you’re not just another attendee; you’re family. Relationships go beyond the surface level, creating a web of support, love, and accountability. It’s within these tight-knit communities that we find genuine friendships that last a lifetime. As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” In a small church, you have the opportunity to truly sharpen one another in your walk with Christ. Some of my greatest growth comes from my personal one on one interaction with the church family I get to do life with.
2. Personalized Pastoral Care
In smaller congregations, pastoral care can be more personalized and attentive. The shepherd knows his sheep by name. This means that your pastor is not just a distant figure delivering sermons but a close mentor, guide, friend and often an adopted family member who understands your unique spiritual needs and challenges. Jesus modeled this kind of intimate care when He said in John 10:14, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” One of the great benefits for me as a Pastor of a small congregation is that often go with the intention of being a blessing and end up being the one blessed.
3. Everyone Has a Role to Play
One of the most beautiful aspects of small congregations is that there’s room for everyone to serve. In a smaller church, every member’s gifts and talents are recognized and utilized. This inclusivity leads to a vibrant and active church life where everyone feels valued and necessary. As 1 Corinthians 12:27 reminds us, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Each person’s contribution is vital to the health and function of the church body. A small congregation may not have all the bells and whistles, but it does offer all ages the opportunity to be involved in a meaningful and productive way that gives God glory and everyone blessing.
4. Flexibility and Responsiveness
Smaller congregations have the advantage of being more flexible and responsive to the needs of their members and the community. They can quickly adapt to new ideas, implement changes, and address specific concerns without the layers of bureaucracy that can often slow down larger organizations. This agility allows for a more dynamic and relevant ministry that can effectively meet the evolving needs of the congregation and the surrounding community. A small congregation may not have all the rules and regulations in place that often hinder the spontaneous direction and guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that some of the most exciting ministry is not planned, but just happens.
5. Deeper Discipleship Opportunities
Discipleship in a smaller church can be more focused and tailored. Pastors and leaders have the capacity to mentor individuals closely, offering personalized guidance and support. This depth of discipleship helps members grow in their faith and develop a stronger, more intimate relationship with Jesus. As Paul encouraged Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” In small congregations, this passing on of wisdom and knowledge is beautifully facilitated by all ages coming together and growing through one another.
6. Intimate Worship Experiences
Worship in a smaller congregation can feel like a family gathering, creating a powerful sense of unity and intimacy. When you worship together in a close-knit setting, the presence of God feels tangible, and the collective worship becomes a shared, heartfelt experience. As Matthew 18:20 says, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” The simplicity and sincerity of worship in a smaller church can lead to profound spiritual encounters. It may not always be the most flashy or professional, but it comes straight from the heart and touches deep in the soul.
7. Strong Support Network
Last, but not least, smaller congregations often provide a strong support network for their members. Whether celebrating life’s milestones or facing difficult trials, the church community is there to offer love, encouragement, and practical help. This support is a tangible expression of God’s love and a beautiful demonstration of living out Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” We are better together and while we may be small in number, we are big in heart and spirit.
In conclusion, dear friends, while larger churches have their place and their own set of advantages, the blessings of a smaller congregation are deeply significant and impactful. In a smaller church, you’re not just part of a crowd; you’re part of a family. It’s in these intimate settings that we can truly experience the love, care, and support that God intends for His children. So, I encourage you to embrace the beauty of smaller congregations and let God use these close-knit communities to deepen your faith and enrich your spiritual journey.
Pastor Michael Joe Harvell – Eureka Baptist Church, Anderson South Carolina
Philippians 4:8 “From now on, brothers and sisters, if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things: all that is true, all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise.”
The clock struck midnight and its out with the old and in with the new. The transition to a new year brings with it a sense of renewal and the promise of fresh beginnings. “New Year, New You” is not just a good phrase, but a meaningful mantra that invites each of us to experience the better life we were created for.
The transition between the old year and the new offer us an opportunity to reflect on the past, set new goals, and embark on a journey of self-improvement. It’s a chance to take stock of where you’ve been and where you hope to go, all the while, shaping a better version of yourself in the process.
Reflection and Gratitude:
Before diving into resolutions and new goals, it is essential to reflect on the year that has passed. Take a look back on both your achievements and the challenges you faced. This looking back fosters gratitude for lessons learned and accomplishments made. Take a moment to appreciate personal growth and the strength gained from overcoming obstacles. The fact that you are entering into a new year is success itself, because if nothing else, you survived!
Setting Intentions and Goals:
Most folks have given up on resolutions, but we don’t need to throw the baby out with the bath water. Call it what you want – resolutions, goals, action items or intentions? The simple act of setting intentions helps pave the way for the journey ahead. Rather than just creating a list of resolutions, consider setting specific, achievable, and meaningful goals. These could encompass various aspects of life—health, career, relationships, personal development, or hobbies. Break down these goals into smaller, actionable steps to make them more manageable and realistic.
Embracing Change:
The new year signifies an opportunity to embrace change. This could involve stepping out of comfort zones, trying new experiences, or breaking old habits. Embrace change as a chance to evolve and grow, welcoming the unknown with open arms.
Prioritizing Self-Care:
Self-care is fundamental for personal growth and well-being. Make self-care practices a priority in your daily routine—whether it’s through prayer/meditation, exercise, nourishing meals, quality sleep, or engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. Nurturing the mind, body, and spirit is essential for overall happiness and success.
Cultivating Mindfulness:
Practicing mindfulness involves being present in the moment, acknowledging thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can help manage stress, improve focus, and enhance overall mental health. Incorporating mindfulness techniques such as reading your Bible, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling can significantly contribute to personal transformation.
Staying Flexible and Resilient:
While setting goals and intentions is crucial, it’s equally important to remain adaptable to unexpected challenges or changes in plans. Embrace flexibility and resilience in the face of adversity, understanding that setbacks are opportunities for growth and learning.
Seeking Support and Accountability:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, mentors, or professionals when pursuing personal growth. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can provide encouragement, advice, and accountability, helping you stay committed to your aspirations.
In conclusion: The “New Year, New You” mentality symbolizes the limitless potential for personal growth and positive change. Embrace this opportunity to craft the life you desire by setting intentions, prioritizing self-care, fostering resilience, and staying committed to your goals. Remember, transformation is a journey—a series of small steps taken consistently toward becoming the best version of yourself.
As the new year unfolds, let it be a canvas for your self-transformation—a chance to paint a vibrant picture of the person you aspire to be. Cheers to the journey ahead and the limitless possibilities that await in this new chapter of life.
Michael Joe Harvell 