The Power of One

powerof one

By: Pastor Ryan Call

Often times we feel insignificant in this big world. People often think to themselves, I am only one person…what difference can I make?

We need to be reminded that God can use us in powerful ways if we will simply make ourselves available to Him. Helen Keller said,

“”I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.”

Throughout God’s word, we find example after example of the power of one.

In John 6:9-13 we see the story of a young boy with five loaves of bread and two small fish. There was no way that insignificant amount of food could feed the massive crowd that was gathered to listen to the Master. But we see in the text that Jesus took the bread and fish and when He had given thanks He distributed them to those who were seated. The word of God tells us that the people ate until they were full. Jesus then told His disciples to gather up the leftovers. They did so and filled up twelve baskets! All of this was from five loaves of bread and two fish.

How is this possible?

Yes Jesus is God and performed a miracle. But don’t miss that this young boy simply made the little that he had available to God. God can use what you have to fill a need. It is not based on one’s ability but one’s availability. God uses those who make themselves available to Him.

What are you passionate about?

What burdens do you have for our community, nation, and world?

Let us know so that we can pray and mobilize others to partner with you to make a difference. You may think you cannot change the world but you can change somebody’s world. And when you do that you will change the world….one person at a time. He will use you, if you make yourself available to Him.

That is the key.

Are you willing to make yourself available to Him? My prayer is that the people of Lakewood Community Church will impact the lives of people in our community and beyond with the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.

Blessings,

Pastor Ryan

A Tree Lot Christmas is Coming Soon

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Our young people are putting on their annual Christmas Production on:

  • Saturday, December 5 at 6 pm
  • Sunday December 6 at 10:30 am

This years production is titled, “Tree Lot Christmas.” Spread the word and invite your friends and family. Come to one or both of these performances and get into the Christmas spirit while supporting the youth of our church.

The best is yet to come!

Operation Christmas Child

operation Christmas childAre you looking for a quick and easy way to give back for all you have been given. Is the holiday season a time when you really want to find a way to make a difference? Then remember Operation Christmas Child at Lakewood Community Church!

We are collecting boxes of gifts for children so they can enjoy the spirit and gifts of Christmas.

All Operation Christmas Child boxes need to be turned into the church office no later than November 15. This allows us to distribute them in plenty of time for Christmas. Contact the church office if you have questions about this project.

Thanks in advance for being a blessing to so many children who need it most!

Spiritual Gifts: Spreading God’s Word

GiftsHave you ever wondered about your spiritual gifts? Maybe you see gifts in others – like their gift of singing, playing the piano, teaching children, creating art, dancing, running a marathon, leadership, ministering, healing, public speaking, or any number of things. And maybe when you see people with these incredible gifts, you shirk into the shadows because you don’t feel you really have a gift that makes a difference.

Stop and think again!

God has blessed each and every one of us with a special gift. It’s within us as believers and all we have to do is discover it! There are many gifts that make a huge difference in the world and help us glorify God in miraculous ways! People often overlook their own spiritual gift because they fail to see how it can be used to glorify God!

Consider some of these gifts:

  • Friendship
  • Listening
  • Encouraging
  • Cleaning
  • Cooking
  • Praying
  • Organizing
  • Kindness
  • Comforting
  • Mercy
  • Writing
  • Cooking
  • Visiting
  • Problem-solving
  • Multi-lingual
  • Sensitivity
  • Hospitality
  • Giving
  • Wisdom
  • Financial competence
  • Faith

Ask God to help you identify and fulfill your spiritual gifts and you will be rewarded in so many ways. Every believer has special gifts and talents – we all just need to discover them within ourselves and then use them for others. Imagine how much better the world would be if everyone fully tapped into their spiritual gifts to praise God and spread His Word in ways that demonstrate caring, loving attitudes!

Your gifts can speak for themselves – and others will see Jesus in you, even if you don’t say a word – because using your gift(s) is a way to help spread God’s message to the world!