As I talk to fellow church planters, listen, and partner with others that are plowing this pioneer territory, one thing I notice that seems to be very visual for all of us: Spiritual Warfare- that conflict and spiritual struggle among Christians. It can come in all kinds of forms: Mental distraction, depression, discouragement, trials, broken dreams, financial hardship, questioning your call, uncertainty, panic, and so much more. I guess because so many of us believe that church planting is the number one evangelistic strategy in the world, warfare is involved. Another reason that this effort disturbs the devil is because it has as its origin, so many facets that please God; faith, risk, trust, obedience, total dependence, sacrifice, and the miraculous. Another large fear planters have is, here we are on a crazy nomadic path, and sometimes we’re not even sure we’ll ever have any people. Seriously! Will they even come and furthermore, will they come back? Prayer is the answer to this warfare! One of the first things I’ve tried to make a priority on this uncertain and often scary journey is to solicit prayer from every willing warrior I could find. I want to send a big praise out to the prayer warriors of D. Ray James Prison in Folkston, Georgia who are praying for Origin Church along with all you others that have emailed and sent notes that you will pray for us. It is priceless! Over the last eight years, I’ve had unique opportunities to speak into 150 men on Monday nights at D. Ray James Prison. These men know how to worship! If you are a planter or pastor and have an interest in speaking one Monday night, let me know. We can make it happen! Let us all keep the faith! Don’t give up! You’re right there, on the verge! You planters and pastors that have made it to more certain ground in your journey, reach down and help another up! Remember what Zig Ziglar said, “You can have everything lin life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
