WHEN HE LEADS

Our month of celebrating our church and pastoral anniversary comes to an end  and we pray your hearts have been encouraged. If these devotionals caused you to recall the reasons you came to Genesis, we pray that it will lead you to give thanks and praise to Jesus for the great and mighty things He has done. We are so glad that Jesus led you to this branch of Zion!  Happy Anniversary, Pastor C and Genesis Bible Fellowship Church!

There are times in our lives when things appear to be moving in the best direction for us. Even so, one still can be at the mercy and will of the Lord. For, the Lord knows best for each of us. I was a part of a large ministry family, feeling comfortable serving in what I considered my spiritual gift. Departing was far from my mind.

While serving, it became obvious that things were changing. The Holy Spirit was doing what He does best as His crucial role in guiding (John 16:13) and teaching (John 14:26) believers, providing insight, understanding, and a reminder of God’s truth revealed in Scripture. My husband started the discussion of leaving the church family where we’d served for many years. He was led to believe the Lord was guiding him to minister to the inner-city community. What did this mean for me and my family? I began to pray continually. The time came when our intent was announced and a date was set for our departure.

June 2004, we worshipped with the Genesis Bible Fellowship family as they were located in the Woodlawn High school temporarily. I’d followed my husband, as he followed the Lord’s leading. That Sunday: I heard the truth preached. The Holy Spirit had guided me to this ministry and I listened intently. We returned Sunday after Sunday plus mid-week Bible Study. My husband and I have been with this ministry family for 22 years. Happy 40th Anniversary, Pastor Cockrell.

PRAYER: Thank You Lord for Your leading. You never lead us contrary to Your Word. Your plan for our short life is not disrupted as You direct our paths. Everything You do in the lives of believers is for our good and to Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
By Sis. Novella D. Carpenter