| Outside of The Masters golf tournament, my favorite golf tournament is The Open Championship. I like links-style golf courses and have been drawn to watching tournaments played on those courses since I was a teenager. I think they have a natural beauty. The winner of The Open Championship is called, The Champion Golfer of the Year. This year it was Georgia native, Brian Harman. He is a scrappy golfer who loves a challenge and never backs down. He is also very consistent with his play. In one of his post-round interviews, he talked about his team who helps him become the best golfer he can be. He talked about the hours of practice and how each team member plays a unique part in his life. Though he didn’t use the words Discipline and Accountability, he alluded to them. As followers of Christ, we need both discipline and accountability. Our faith doesn’t grow without them. Discipline is the proactive effort one gives to grow. Accountability provides the check and balance to our effort. Both keep us focused and moving forward with God. This week I ask you to take a candid inventory of your life. Where do you need to be more discipline? Where do you need accountability? God desires for us to grow and become more like his son, Jesus Christ. Commit time and effort to become like Christ. Invite people to hold you accountable.  This Week’s Readings: *Monday – Mark 4 *Tuesday – Mark 5 *Wednesday – Mark 6 *Thursday – Mark 7 *Friday – Mark 8 Prayer Requests: -Children, Leaders, and Counselors at Camp. -Families traveling throughout the summer. -Our unwillingly absent members. -Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. -Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. -Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. -Guidance for those seeking to find their way. -Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |