Dear Family and Friends:
In Second Corinthians, the Apostle Paul asks the question, “who is sufficient for these things?” A bit later, Paul then makes the realization, “our sufficiency is of God.” Further on in the book we read, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
When I consider what God has called me to, I cannot help but realize I am not sufficient for these things. God wants to reach our valley with the Gospel. God wants to lead the people here to greater faith and victory over sin. God wants from our church the kind of worship He enjoys. God wants our family to be a testimony of God’s grace. And He wants my life to be filled with illustrations of a real God answering prayer. When I consider what God wants – even expects, it doesn’t take long to realize, “I cannot.” I am not sufficient for these things. My only sufficiency is in the God of grace whose strength is made perfect in my weakness.
Since 2015, we have been a part of Living Waters Baptist Church. Through these years, we have seen God do great things. We’ve seen people saved. We’ve seen Christians get right with God. And we’ve seen the church together take steps of faith. Paul realizes the great privilege he had of assisting Pastor Messick in the ministry. God used Pastor and Mrs. Messick in our lives to grow and deepen our own walk with God. Their faithfulness has challenged us even when the fruit may be small. Their graciousness has put up with our own failings and deficiencies. And their love for the people has been an example of humble servants of the Lord. After nearly forty years in the ministry (which included starting Living Waters Baptist Church), Pastor Messick is believing God is leading him to step aside as pastor.
Sunday, May 21, the church will be voting on calling Paul to become the next pastor. The following Sunday, May 28, the church is planning a transition service. At that time, we will look back with praise for what God has done, but also look forward with a challenge for Paul and the people to go forward for God.
Please pray for Pastor and Mrs. Messick as they begin this new chapter in their lives. They are facing several decisions and are needing God’s leading.
Please pray for us as we make several major changes. For now, Paul will continue working (but only part time). Please pray for God’s provision,
wisdom in counseling, effectiveness in evangelism, guidance in directing the church, balance between church and family responsibilities, omnipotent protection from sin and satanic attack, power in preaching, and for fruit that will last.
Please pray for the church people as they also experience changes through a new pastor. Areas of prayer needs would include a spirit of unity, a desire to take steps of faith, a compassion for the lost, and a purpose to keep Jesus in His rightful place to receive glory, praise, and worship.
May the One who is sufficient be our Source of wisdom and power!
All for Jesus,
Paul and Naomi Sondergaard
Ruthanne, Nathan, Hannah, Aletheia, and Andrew