First Steps – May 8, 2023


Do you like to work in a garden?  Keep a yard? If you do, try this the next time:

Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”

John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

While you work, ask yourself these questions:
1.  Where are you currently planting seeds in ministry?
2.  When is the last time you felt a time of harvest?
3.  How can you provide an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to water seeds of faith in the lives of the people who attend your church?

Pray:  O God, thank you for the opportunity to plant seeds of faith in the hearts and lives of others.  Help me to see the fruit ripe for harvest.  Help me to trust your Holy Spirit.  Send what is needed for growth in the lives of those around me.  Use me, O Lord. I yield myself to you.  Amen.
  

 
 
This Week’s Readings:
*Monday – Revelation 1-4
*Tuesday – Revelation 5-9
*Wednesday – Revelation 10-14
*Thursday – Revelation 15-18
*Friday – Revelation 19-22

Prayer Requests:
-Our graduating high school seniors.
-Family restoration through forgiveness.
-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