From Obstacle to Opportunity

"This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."- 2 Corinthians 9:12

I am writing with an update and request. As we continue in Vision Month, there are many new things to celebrate so far in 2023 (our new name, new leaders, higher number of younger people, and sending out people to help other churches on Sundays). We are on mission, have a greater focus and health, and are advancing in so many ways! While we are witnessing so much good, one area of strain/need we face is with our CHURCH FINANCES. Currently, our reserves are at a lower-than-normal. There are a couple of factors that we have identified contributing to this present reality: - Since the move to Saturday nights we have less donors and funds coming in. - Several people who call our church home are not tithing (10% of income), not giving regularly, or have YET to give at all in 2023.

Throughout Vision Month we have camped in the Book of Acts to see what ingredients led to the supernatural unity, vibrant life, and explosive growth of the Early Church. One aspect of their success was the SHARING OF FAITH and STOPPING OF LACK. Acts 4:33b-35 says, “And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who has need.” I can’t help but to think what would happen if our 21st Century, American Church with all the resources, big properties, age specific ministries, contemporary curriculum, latest technology, simply WENT BACK to doing things in such a way that…

NOT ONE FINANCIAL/PRACTICAL NEED would be left unattended. If everyone was operating from a place of GENEROSITY every bill would be paid, there would be no financial strain, we could share with those who have little, there would be room to grow leaders and ministries, there would be enough for BIG VISION/PLANS. We believe that this OBSTACLE can turn into an OPPORTUNITY. With that, I am reaching out to you, a part of our church family and dear friend, to join us in prayer and partnership. 1) PRAY- Last Saturday we shared a brief update and call to action. Here is the link- https://youtu.be/8_m-v0V9vFQ. Please pray for people's hearts to be receptive and for each one to respond to this need by taking a step of faith, obedience, and generosity. 2) PARTICIPATE- Many of you already are giving at such extravagant and generous levels...thank you! If for some reason you fall into the previously stated category of not tithing or giving regularly, would you consider doing your part? CLICK HERE to give online. You can even set up a recurring giving plan, so that your worship to God in this way does not get forgotten or missed. Thank you for letting me share this with you. Thank you for your prayer support and love. Thank you for all you do to make Restoration Church a great faith community.