IMPROVING RELATIONSHIPS

The weeks sandwiched in between Thanksgiving and New Year's seem to bring out the best but also the worst in people. I am thinking specifically of how busy and hectic life seems to be at this time of year. In addition to our responsibilities on the job, there is increased family activity that is extremely stressful for many of us.

The word of encouragement I have for you is to never forget that we are first and foremost a Christian. Although this sounds simple, many of us forget it - especially at this time of year. As a child of God we should remember that our walk with Him will affect all areas of our life. J. Oswald Sanders said it this way, "Everything in our Christian life and service flows from our relationship with God. If we are not in vital fellowship with Him, everything else will be out of focus."

We can strengthen our relationship with God through personal and group Bible study.

Much effort goes into preparing and teaching Bible classes at West-Ark. You can certainly get to know the Father better by studying and applying His word to your daily life.

Another way to improve your relationship with Him is by encouraging each other to keep going in our search to find intimacy with God. One practical way this is being accomplished is through Small Groups that meet in members homes on Sunday evenings. If you have a desire for more fellowship with one another, there is a place for you to belong in West-Ark's small group ministry as we study, pray and worship together.

You need to decide for yourself if the busyness of the Season has overshadowed your communion with the Father.

In closing, I'd like to ask you to pray. Pray that your relationships with your family will be become stronger. Pray that our congregation will become everything that He desires for us to be. Pray for each other. Pray that the wisdom and power of God's Spirit may fill us.

See you in Bible Class!

Ted Edwards

West-Ark Church of Christ, Fort Smith, AR
Bulletin Article, 3 December 2000


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