Trust Test (Part 1)

As we come to the last week of our series, First(s) of the Year, and the beginning of our 21-day fast, I wanted to remind you of a few things:
Prayer and Fasting
* Decide how you will join with us in this 21 days of fasting and prayer. [SEE QR CODE]
* Plan to pray and read through John with us during these 21 days as you spend time alone with God. [SEE QR CODE]
* Determine a specific area of prayer focus for yourself during these 21 days. You might pray for your marriage, your children, a child who has wandered from the faith, healing, spiritual power/victory over an area of struggle, forgiveness, and God's grace, a nation or mission field, an issue (such as abortion), your school or workplace, etc.
* Find a place, if possible, that works best for you to be quiet with God.
* Remember, as you are hungry--or your mind is drawn to that item you have given up for this time--direct your attention in prayer to God.

Giving/Stewardship- Take some time to pray and reflect on how you can serve God this year with your time, talents, and treasures.* How do I plan to serve God with my time this year?* How will I use the talents or gifts, God has given me to bless others?* How much do I feel God would have me give weekly/regularly? These commitments are steps of trust in God to use you in ways that will bless others. They will also bless you and grow your faith in God's faithfulness. Lastly, and this is really cool, what you do and give will bless God! No, God doesn't need anything from us; but he desires for us to put him first. And, when we put him first, this is his promise:

Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things [i.e., your need for food, clothing, etc.] will be given to you as well."
So, will you trust God this year to use you, to work in and through you?


Daren Penwell