I can't do this anymore!

I can't do this anymore!  Have you ever found yourself saying this?  Maybe you've said it multiple times in a day.  Sometimes, it is life in general and sometimes, it is a certain situation or circumstance in your life.  Either way, it's a declaration of desperation or one of giving up.

I'm just like you.  I wake up many days and find myself feeling this way and sometimes even saying out loud.  It's never a good feeling and can often times drain you and leave you paralyzed and in a downcast state.  It can lead you to question your desire to even want to continue living in this old world and dealing with it's boat load of troubles, trials, and tribulations.  I've been there many times and have even been there today.

The good news is...you are not alone in your feeling of desperation.  Many who have gone before you and many who are living around you feel the very same way every day.  Does it change the way you feel? Certainly not.  However, it should comfort you to know that if they have made it through the struggles of life, then you can too.

I'm reminded in Scripture where Paul the Apostle, a passionate follower and servant of Christ, was at this very same point in life.  He had great troubles, of which we don't even fully know or understand, that he referred to as a thorn in the flesh.  Three times he asked God to remove them from his life and three times God said, "NO."  WOW!  That was awful rude of God to respond in such a way.  Okay, not really.  You see, God had already provided everything that Paul would need to make it through the difficulties of this life.  He revealed it to Paul when God simply said, "My GRACE is sufficient for you."  It may sound like a cop out, but it's really more of a revealing of God's character being displayed in the lives of people.  His love and grace are the answer to every difficulty that we will face in this life, just like Paul. 

The real question is, will you allow God's love and grace to be everything that you need in this life?  After all, nothing that passes into your life has caught God by surprise.  His grace is more than enough to see you through whatever you are or will face in this life.

Turn to God today and rely on His grace and love to see you through.  Stop declaring negativity over your life that you CAN'T take it anymore and start walking in the victory that was already provided for you at the cross of Calvary through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.  With Christ, YOU can do this!  Will you?

Knock, Knock! Will you answer the door of opportunity?

Like many, I have always said, "Lord, send me anywhere but Africa," until several years ago when I was attending the Tennessee Baptist Convention and kept running into Missionary Mike McAfee from Abidjan, West Africa.  Immediately, I sensed the Lord saying that this is where I was to go.  At first, I rejected it and didn't want to follow through.  For several weeks, I continued to sense the nudging of the Holy Spirit to seek out the opportunity to travel to the Ivory Coast to take HOPE to a people in need of Jesus. 

I remember the first conversation that I had with Missionary Mike.  It was like a breathe of fresh air and a peace flooded my spirit.  From that moment forward, my first trip was in place and the days were counting down.  I still remember the moment that I boarded that plane heading to Abidjan and the feeling of excitement that gripped me as I knew God was carrying me every step of the way.

Abidjan is an urban city in West Africa of some 8 million people.  Many live in the city and many live outside of the city in poverty ridden villages.  My team experienced first hand the hunger and thirst for HOPE among the people and we were blessed to be able to share with them the story of creation to Christ. 

Honestly, even after returning home and to this very day, I cannot for the life of me get the images of those people out of my head and off of my heart.  I love the people of Abidjan dearly and cannot wait to return again to share the HOPE of Jesus Christ and plant new churches to reach their own people.

I am scheduled to take a team of 4-5 people from Impact Church this October 20-29th to once again impact this area with the gospel of Jesus Christ.  On this team is an elder from Bridges of Hope Fellowship in McMinnville, TN (my former church plant), a young lady who is in our student ministry at Impact, her brother, and myself.  There may be the possibility of another lady in our church going as well.  Me and the elder from BOHF have both been before, but the other two will be making this journey as their FIRST mission trip ever.  That's exciting!

I am asking all of my friends to pray about helping us get to Africa this fall.  We are currently in need of $5,000 to purchase the plane tickets in order to secure a good rate.  I understand that many cannot go on foreign missions, but could give to help see that others get there and that the gospel gets shared.  There are several ways that you can give to help support this mission trip.

1)  Pray for us and God's provisions

2)  Give online at https://impactchurchtn.securegive.com  and mark "AFRICA" in the memo box.

3)  Mail your contribution to:  Impact Church, P.O. Box 1057, Kingston, TN 37763

Any amount you can give to help us get to Africa will be greatly helpful as God will multiply your gifts.  All gifts are totally tax deductible as allowed by the IRS.

Thanks in advance for giving to make an IMPACT in the lives of the people of Abidjan, West Africa! When we get to heaven, many of them will await you to thank you there.  May God bless you as you give of yourself so that many could be won to the kingdom!

If you need more information or would like to talk with me more about this trip, please call 865-376-4400 or email pastor@impactchurchtn.com

Pastor DeWayne
Impact Church
Kingston, TN

We're Off The Ground!

This week, I am reflecting on the "Grand Opening" or public launch of our new church plant, Impact Church, in Kingston, Tennessee.

As I look back over the past year, there was lots of hard work, praying, serving, relationship building, vision casting, and just plain loving our community that has led us up the point of our launch on Sunday.

When I arrived at the building on Sunday morning, the excitement of the day filled the air.  Volunteers were already there and preparing for our guests that would soon arrive.  The worship team arrived, instruments were warming up, and worship rehearsal began.  The celebration band and praise team sounded awesome!  I could tell it was going to be a great day.  

I am so thankful for Tim & Heather Mears coming to help us from my former church, Bridges of

Hope Fellowship, in McMinnville.  Tim ran the sound for us and Heather was available as a backup for our projection.  Both are always ready to serve at a moments notice and with a smile on their faces.  Tim was my chairman of deacons and Heather, what was she not.  LOL  She and her family were part of the original few that helped us plant Bridges of Hope Fellowship.  It was great to have them for the launching of Impact Church as well.

At 9:50 a.m., we started our very first Volunteer V.I.P. Huddle for all of our volunteers.  It was a great time for some vision casting, informing them of changes or protocol, and praying together before everyone got to their places of service at 10 a.m.

I will never forget the way I felt as people started pouring into our facility and the way our volunteers greeted the people with smiles, handshakes, and welcoming laughter.  It was amazing!  There is no way anyone could have left our facility and not feel loved and welcomed.  Our volunteers rocked it!

Our children's ministry was ready as kids checked-in at our new electronic check-in center.  Ginger Hammons, one of our volunteers, was there greeting with a smile and warm words of welcome for parents and children alike.  She was great!

As for the refreshments, it never ceases to amaze me how a cup of hot coffee, water, or juice can stir up fellowship before entering the worship center.  Lots of people stood and got to know one another over a cup of coffee.  

In the worship center, when the countdown hit zero, the band was on it!  The did a fantastic job of leading us in worship and preparing our hearts for the hearing of God's Word.  I have never felt more sure about a service as I did this one.  We had all worked hard, prepared, and prayed for God to show up and do His thing...move in the hearts and lives of the people...and He did.  

After I preached and gave the invitation, the altars were flooded with people praying about different things and surrendering their lives to the Lord.  One young man chose to follow Christ and went from darkness to light.  Praise God!  Many came for baptism, while 36 came to join "The Core" membership at Impact Church.  God was in the House!!!!!  It was so exciting to see the Holy Spirit moving mightily in our midst.  

On the way out that day, I was thrilled to talk to, fellowship with, and pray with lots of people who had blessed us with their presence as our special guests.  My heart was full and overwhelmed, to say the least.

Since that day, I have watched Social Media blow up with posts of excitement, photos, videos, etc. from the BIG day.  Our momentum is high and we are blessed!  

As a result, this coming Sunday, we'll be helping people "Go Public" through baptism.  It's going to be exciting as we watch lots of people invite their family, friends, and co-workers to experience their public acknowledgement of their faith in Jesus Christ.  How awesome!  

I just want to close by saying how amazing proud I am to be the pastor at Impact Church and to shepherd these wonderful people of God.  Thank you, Impact Church, for loving me and my family so much!  We are truly blessed to serve you!

Let The Celebration Begin!

It's been a year ago since we officially gathered a couple of people to walk alongside of us in this NEW journey of church planting.

Over the last year, my family and I have worked hard to get out in the community, get to know the community again, and serve the community with the love of God.  As we did, we shared the vision that God has given us for a new church planting movement based out of Kingston through the planting of Impact Church.  One by one, individuals and families began joining the vision.  We started meeting on Sundays in February 2014 for our Core Group worship and then meeting on Wednesday nights for our Core Group training and equipping sessions.  Throughout the year, we spent lots of time, energy, and resources reaching out to our community through serving projects, sports camps/clinics, Backyard Bible Clubs, VBS, door to door canvassing, partnerships with the local schools, etc.

It's been a long, hard, but fun and rewarding year as we've watched God perform miracle after miracle and life change after life change.  We ended the year with 37 people having gone from darkness to light as they surrendered their lives to follow Jesus Christ.  We saw 8 people walk through the baptismal waters as they went public with their faith.  Praise the Lord!

Now is the time to "officially" launch Impact Church in full force to the Kingston and Roane County area.  Our teams are in place, excitement is high, and we are praying like crazy for God to Impact Kingston and the world through the ministry of Impact Church!  This Sunday, January 25th is our official "Grand Opening" and we are believing God to show up and display His marvelous power and glory in our midst.  We would love for you to bring a friend and join us, if you can.  We start serving coffee, juice, water, and snacks at 10 a.m. (EST) and the celebration begins at 10:30 a.m.

In celebration, I'll be kicking off a new sermon series entitled, "MISSION: Impact."  In this series, we'll be breaking down the mission of Christ for every believer and more specifically, Impact Church.

If you can't attend, please pray for us that many lives will be changed for the glory of God.  I will be sure to update you as to the move of God in our midst.  Thanks for all of your support!

Easter Expectations at Impact Church

This Sunday is EASTER and we're celebrating it at Impact Church in Kingston, Tennessee!  Check out what's happening...

Here are 7 frequently asked questions about visiting Easter Sunday:

What should I wear?

At Impact Church, you’ll see all styles of dress. Some will wear suit and tie and dresses. Some will wear jeans and t-shirts. We may even see shorts if the weather is warm enough. To answer your question, choose an outfit you already own, one you feel comfortable in, and join us. (No speedos please, but that’s just a personal request, otherwise, you’ll be fine. )

What will we do? What can I expect?

We will have a fairly typical worship schedule. We will sing some songs, a short welcome time, I’ll share a message (my intent will be to share hope), we will sing some more. We will attempt to have a blend of songs and music all ages can enjoy. And, yes, in full transparency, and in case you’re wondering, we will receive an offering, but not during the service.  We use offering boxes mounted at both entrances to our worship center as our people just drop it in as they are coming or going. Our offerings support the full range of ministries we offer in the church, community, and around the world. You are not required, however, to participate during this time unless you choose to do so.  However, we do ask you to fill out a simple communication card and drop it by the information center on your way out in exchange for a FREE gift.  You will want this gift!

Will you embarrass me?

I certainly hope not. It will be a primary goal not to do that. I don’t personally like to be embarrassed when I visit somewhere new, even in a church — and I’m a pastor — so my goal is to create an environment that is comfortable for all. You WILL NOT be singled out as a guest. We don’t make guests stand, raise their hand, or even fill out a card if you choose not to do so. (You certainly won’t be asked to sing a solo, unless you sing really, really loud — and then you’re on your own. )

How long will the service last?

Slightly more than an hour. I’d love to say an hour, but sometimes the service ends up being an hour and 5 or 10 minutes frequently. At the most, you’ll be with us for an hour and 15 minutes. (Walking to and from the car time and all.)

What time should I arrive?

That’s a great question. And, I’m really trying to help when I suggest you get here a few minutes early. Maybe even as many as 10 minutes early. This will give you time to get familiar with where the kids (birth to 2nd grade) go. We especially want you to find a seat where you are most comfortable (some want up close — some want in the middle), and you’ll feel more acclimated to the room if you have a few minutes to adjust before the service begins. We have a special Easter Worship Guide you can be reading while you wait for the service to start.

Do you have something for children?

Absolutely. Birth through 2nd grade have their own activities designed especially for them. They will enjoy a teaching experience that will engage them at their level. Of course, we don’t keep you from bringing children with you in the worship service if that is more comfortable on a first visit, but our experience is that they truly do enjoy the time designed for them. Either way, we love when entire families join us Easter Sunday.

Can I only come one time? Really, for what am I signing up when I come Easter Sunday?

There’s no obligation beyond Easter Sunday. It’s a “free look”. Promise. Being honest, we do ask you to fill out a communication card and, if you do, we will follow up with you. And I hope you do. I love seeing who God brought to us as guests. I love meeting our guests. But, even if you fill out a card, we allow you to tell us how you want to be contacted. Phone, email, social media, or visit — or none — you tell us. We won’t put any unfair pressure on you to ever come again. We hope you will, and we’d love if Easter triggered that desire in you, but that’s your call — not ours.

I hope that answers some questions of those who think about visiting our church. I’d be honored if you are our guest.   Either way, I hope you have a great EASTER and experience the HOPE of the resurrection!

Pastor DeWayne

Impact Church

www.ImpactChurchTN.com 

It's Almost Here!

Dear Friends, Family, and Partners in Ministry,

I hope you and your family had a great Christmas holiday spending time together and making memories that will last a lifetime.  It’s always a great time of year to slow down and reflect on all that God has done for us and given to us in the last year.  But, as you know, we’re only a few days away from a fresh new year…2014.  With a new year will come new blessings, new opportunities, and new challenges.  Regardless, God is already there and guiding us through to His glorious destiny for each of us.

My family has been hard at work on the prep phase of planting Impact Church in the Roane County, Tennessee area.  Lots has already happened in terms of meeting people and gathering families to our launch team.  As we’ve been meeting people and building some good and strong relationships, God has been moving and working in the lives of those people.  We are excited to have the opportunity to help reach the 31,000 + people in Roane County that have no relationship to God or a church!  Those are the people we are targeting with the love and gospel of Jesus Christ.  Our goal is NOT transfer growth, but kingdom growth through salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. 

I would like to ask you, your family, your church, or your business to consider giving a year-end tax deductible contribution to assist us fulfilling the mission of LOVING GOD, LOVING PEOPLE, AND IMPACTING THE WORLD.   Your gift will help us move to the next phase of planting Impact Church.  Make your gift by midnight on December 31^st and it will count toward the 2013 tax period.  Here’s how:

• GIVE ONLINE -  https://impactchurchtn.securegive.com  You can give a one-time gift or a monthly recurring gift.
  
• ·   MAIL -  You can mail your gift to:
                          Impact Church, P.O. Box 1057, Kingston, TN 37763
  
• ·     MOBILE PHONE/Ipad APP – Download the “SECUREGIVE” app           from iTunes or Google app store.  Select 37763 and Impact                 Church as your giving organization.  It’s that easy!

You can always stay in touch with us through our website at www.ImpactChurchTN.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/impactchurchtn  or by following us on twitter at www.twitter.com/impactchurchtn.

Thank you so much for partnering with us to see lives changed and impacted in and beyond Roane County, Tennessee!  You support is making a difference!

Impacting the World,

Pastor DeWayne Howard

Impact Church...Experience the Difference!

www.ImpactChurchTN.com
www.DewayneHoward.com

December 2013 Update

It’s December and another year is drawing to an end.  This year has been filled with lots of blessing and change for our family and ministry.  As many of you know, we resigned from Bridges of Hope Fellowship in McMinnville, TN and had our last day on the 7^th Anniversary of the church, October 13^th.  Within a few weeks, we embarked on the journey of moving our family to Kingston, TN to start/plant a new church in Roane County, TN.  The welcome and support has been overwhelming.  We are excited to be back in East Tennessee!

The new church plant is called, Impact Church.  The latest census reports show that Roane County has a

population of 54,181 people, with 31, 208 of those having no relationship to God or a church.  The need is great.  Most of the churches are either totally traditional or totally contemporary in their approach to worship, discipleship, and reaching people.  We feel the need to offer something that is not off the wall, but different.  Our goal is to focus on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Our mission is simple, yet clear:  LOVING GOD.  LOVING PEOPLE.  IMPACTING THE WORLD.  You can find out more about Impact Church at www.ImpactChurchTN.com or on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ImpactChurchTN.   You can also follow us on Twitter @ImpactChurchTN.

We immediately began talking to people and seeking to build a core group/launch team, a 500 member prayer team, and secure a facility.  It’s been exciting as I’ve been out in the community talking with people and seeing their eyes glow with interest.  Next week, we’ll launch Impact Vision Tour, an informal gathering, to share the vision of Impact Church with the community.  Please pray for those gatherings and the people who will show up.  The dates are as follows:

·         Tuesday, December 10^th at 7 p.m. at Kingston Community Center

·         Thursday, December 12^th at 7 p.m. at Harriman Community Center

If you are in the area, feel free to come and join us for this time of fellowship and sharing.

As you may know, expenses are already starting to come in as we make full preparations to plant Impact Church.  There are lots of initial startup costs involved with planting a new church (website, meeting space, business/invite cards, banners, chairs, sound equipment, projection equipment, etc.).  God is more than able to supply all of our needs and He desires to use people like you and me to do so.  So, how can you be a part of this great new work?

Four Ways to Partner With Us:

1.  IMPACT PRAYER TEAM:  Join the Impact Prayer Team by replying to this email with your name and email address or visit www.ImpactChurchTN.com and sign up on the front page. 
You'll receive a weekly email with our urgent requests concerning the plant and our family.

2.  IMPACT PARTNER:  Become an Impact Partner by supporting the church financially for 1 year.  You can give a monthly gift or a one-time gift that is tax deductible.  A partner could be an individual, family, Sunday School Class, Life Group, or a church.  Send your gifts to: Impact Church, P.O. Box 1057, Kingston, TN 37763.  Register as an Impact Partner at http://www.impactchurchtn.com/_forms/view/16628.  Soon, you’ll be able to give online or use our smart phone giving app!  (We are looking for 10 churches who will partner with us at $100 monthly for 12 months.  Could your church do this?)

3.  IMPACT LAUNCH TEAM:  Join the Launch Team (Core Group) as a missionary to help launch the new church for a specified or unspecified period of time. If interested, click here > http://www.impactchurchtn.com/_forms/view/16627

4.  MISSION TEAMS:  Bring a mission team to help us prepare our meeting space, do community outreach, prayer walking, etc.  Call 931-808-8866 or email me if your church or small group is interested.

Thanks in advance for all of your prayers and financial support to help us launch this new church in Roane County!  For more information, feel free to contact me at 931-808-8866 or email me at pastordhoward@gmail.com

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Impacting the World,

Pastor DeWayne Howard

Impact Church...Experience the Difference!

www.ImpactChurchTN.com
www.DewayneHoward.com

A New Journey Begins...

After 7 great years of planting and pastoring Bridges of Hope Fellowship in McMinnville, Tennessee, God closed one door of ministry and has opened another.  Sunday, October 13th was the last day with our Bridges of Hope family.  Our church family celebrated God's faithfulness and then they commissioned my family to be sent out to plant a new church in the Roane County, Tennessee area. That's right!  I can hardly believe it myself.  So, our family took the next week off to rest and enjoy some time in Pigeon Forge before the new journey began.  After returning home, we began searching for a place to live in Kingston.  Over the next three weeks, we would find a small duplex, load up the truck and move.  Natalie is in the process of trying to get a job to help out while I plant the church.  I am open and available to preach for pulpit supply, revivals, special one day evangelistic emphasis, etc. Feel free to give me a call at 931-808-8866.

The new journey is the planting of Impact Church.  Roane County has a population of 54,181 people, of which 31,208 have no relationship to God or a local church.  Not only that, but 400 people will die lost without Christ over a three day period of time.  The task is urgent and lives are in the balance of eternity.  We MUST get the message out and tell the world the Good News...the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
We are excited to get to work on this new endeavor as we meet people and begin pulling together a

core group of people to launch this new church on Sunday, April 13, 2014.  Since moving to Kingston, we've secured a website (www.ImpactChurchTN.com), a Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/impactchurchtn), and a twitter profile (www.Twitter.com/impactchurchtn).   I hope you'll take the time to connect with us through all three of these social media platforms to keep up with what's happening at Impact Church.

Many have asked what we need right now.  So, here are a few ways you can help us.

1.  Join the Impact Prayer Team by emailing us your name and email address.  You'll receive a weekly email with our urgent requests concerning the plant and our family.

2.  Become an Impact Partner by supporting the church financially for 1 year.  You can give a monthly gift or a one time gift that is tax deductible.  A partner could be an individual, family, Sunday School Class, Life Group, or a church.  Send your gifts to: Impact Church, P.O. Box 1057, Kingston, TN 37763.

3.  Join the Launch Team (Core Group) as a missionary to help launch the new church for a specified or unspecified period of time.

Thanks in advance for all of your prayers and financial support to help us launch this new church in Roane County!  For more information, feel free to contact me at 931-808-8866 or email me at pastordhoward@gmail.com

FAITH: Stepping Out of the Boat

As I read and understand the Scriptures, FAITH is less about what you believe and more about how you live what you believe.  In essence, FAITH is more about actions.  For years, I have preached that walking on water requires getting out of the boat.  Nothing great has ever happened for the kingdom by people who merely sit in the boat and stay in their comfort zones.  I am certainly not one to stay in the comfort zone.

Back in April of this year, Natalie and I both felt the winds of change blowing, but didn’t know what that meant at the time.  The more we prayed and sought God in the manner, the more we felt that it had to do with us.  While on vacation at the end of May, first of June, we felt as if our direction was being made more clear.  We continued to pray, fast, and seek the Lord for more answers and direction. 

I personally, spent many sleepless nights and many weeks under great stress and restlessness.  One of those days in late August, I was greeted by a text message from a prayer warrior in my life.  The text basically said that God was instructing me to rest and nap during the day as He was reserving the night for Himself.  As tired as I was, I wasn’t about to miss this opportunity to sit still and quietly before the Lord in solitude and listen for His voice.  Little did I know that this would be the night that solidified our future plans for my family and ministry.  During those early morning hours, God revealed to my heart His desire for me to let go of Bridges of Hope and step out of the boat.  He gave me the date of my resignation and the date of my last service.  After hearing His plan, I drifted off to sleep for more than 12 hours straight.  Since that day, Natalie and I have been filled with total peace and faith in trusting God’s plan for our lives.  We KNOW that this is God’s will for us and Bridges of Hope Fellowship! 

Following that night, I cannot begin to tell you the numbers of phone calls, texts, emails, Facebook messages, face to face conversations, sermons, songs, etc. that God has used to confirm His Word to us over and over again.

Today, I stood and gave a message that God had placed on my heart about “Changing Seasons,” which can be viewed in it’s entirety at www.GetHopeOnline.info.   At the end of the message, I shared what I will call my “letter of resignation” and it reads:

“I planted my first church in Athens, TN and was there for 4 ½ years when God spoke to my heart after a prayer revival in May of 2005 and told me I was finished.  I had no idea what I was going to do.  Little did I know that He was preparing to send me to McMinnville in September of 2005 as the pastor of an established church.  One year later, God had brought that short season to a close and opened a new season of HOPE as we stepped out in faith to plant what we know today as Bridges of Hope Fellowship.

These past 7 years have been filled with many blessings, hardships, laughter and tears.  However, every step along the journey has been God ordained.  There have been many people to come and many to go.  Very few have stayed the course with us from our first days at the Best Western Hotel on Sparta Street.  Regardless, each person that God has allowed to walk with us on any step of the journey has been a true blessing and joy in our lives. 

Today, God is changing our seasons again.  Embracing that change is never easy, but a must if we are going to stay in the will of God and fulfill the mission that God has us on.  It is after much prayer, fasting, sleepless nights, and time in the presence of the Lord that I must share with you that I am resigning as pastor of Bridges of Hope Fellowship.  My last Sunday with you will be on October the 13^th, our 7 year anniversary.  It has nothing to do with money, another church, or any problems or people.  It is directly the expressed will of God in my life.  We have no idea what the future holds for us as we cannot see the next step, but are solely stepping out of the boat and walking by faith into the next ministry assignment that God has waiting for us.

The elders knew nothing of this until 2 weeks ago, when I boldy heard from the Lord as to what I had to do.  They nor I knew what God had planned for either of us.

We are currently praying and planning for the days ahead and will be sharing more information with you weekly as we approach the 7 year anniversary.  So, let me encourage you to make every effort to be in attendance each week as we walk through this countdown in our remaining weeks together.  Let’s take full advantage of every opportunity given to us by God during these next 4 weeks.

The difficulty for us as humans is when God changes our seasons and we don’t understand why.  Remember that God’s ways are not our ways, but they are higher than ours.  Even when we don’t understand His plans, we must trust His will and desires for us.

Our family wants you to know how much we love you and are grateful for how you have loved us.  A huge part of us will always be at Bridges of Hope as we are sent out as missionaries on a journey for the Lord.  We are asking you to please stand by us as we make this transition and to continue to stand by YOUR church as it progresses forward to reach Warren County with the love of Jesus Christ.  The church is not about a man or a personality, but rather the body of Christ worshipping the Risen Christ.”

As stated, we have no idea that next step of the journey that God has for our family.  All we know is that we are to follow Him in FAITH and OBEDIENCE as we journey each step of the way.  Soon, it shall be revealed.  I am confident of that one thing.

Until then, we simply ask for the prayers and support of our family, friends, church family, and all those who have stood by us throughout the years.  God has a BIG plan!  

With great FAITH and lots of LOVE,

Pastor DeWayne, Natalie, and Dwight
Jeremiah 29:11

I'm okay...Are you?

Okay.  What does it mean to be okay?  Life has it's ups and downs and that's the roller coaster we're all riding on.  Some days, it's good and other days, it's...well, not so good!  Either way, it's all okay.

The past couple of weeks have been really difficult for my family and those I love.  The emotional drain has been hard, causing the physical drain to be even worse than normal.  I have found myself to just be worn out from life's situations.

Guess what I've discovered?  I'm okay.  Regardless of the battle, regardless of the storm, regardless of how tired you become, regardless of the pain...you're okay.  Even on days when you're not okay, it's still okay.

Paul said that he had learned to be content with whatever state he was in.  We should learn a lesson from that and realize that life is not always fair nor easy.  However, with God we can be content and be  OKAY.  God knows where you and where you've been.  He already has everything planned out for your future.  Just go with Him!

In the end...we're all okay!

Why Fast?

Why fast?  That's a question that lots of people have. In fact, it's not even a talked about topic in most of our churches and therefore, it leaves us ignorant concerning it.  In short, it is drawing close to God.

God clearly teaches in His Word that if we would draw close to Him, then He would draw close to us.

Fasting is not an easy thing, to say the least.  It is primarily abstaining from foods for a pre-determined period of time that is set by the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer.  The purpose is for us to break out of our normal routine to come apart and spend some rich, intimate, and quality time with the Lord to get closer to Him.

Over the past several years, my family and I have committed to a lifestyle of prayer and fasting to press in closer in relationship with our heavenly Father.  We've seen many miracles happen in our lives and those around us as a result.  I am thankful for faithful teaching from such men as Jentezen Franklin and Stovall Weems on the subject of fasting.  I have read their books, heard their sermons, and studied it for myself.  Fasting is a choice and not a requirement.  However, it is one of the best choices we can make as Christians.

If you are not on the 21 Day Fast with us at Bridges of Hope Fellowship, I would encourage you to jump in and start today.  It will change your life!  Be sure to stop by the info wall in the foyer and pick up a copy of "Your Personal Guide to Prayer & Fasting."  It has some great tips and pointers, especially if you are fasting for the first time.

Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you press into Jesus and draw closer to Him!

The Journey Begins

Today is a special day in my life and the life of our church at Bridges of Hope Fellowship.  Today, we begin our annual 21 Days of Prayer & Fasting to clear our minds and bodies so that we can have a greater awareness of God's presence and greater clarity in hearing His voice.  Also, I'll be kicking off our message series from Joshua 10:12-14, "Sun Stand Still."  If you live in or around McMinnville, Tennessee, I hope you'll join us on Sundays at 9:30 or 11 a.m.  You choose!

This year, we are calling it the "Sun Stand Still" fast as we are asking people to believe God to do the impossible in their lives and in the life of our church.  What might it look like if we were to dare to ask God for the impossible?  People would be healed, souls rescued from the destruction of hell and their sin, marriages restored, financial doors opened, and so on.  It literally could start a revolution of audacious faith in our church and the body of Christ!

In beginning my fast, I want to focus on one Scripture this morning,

“Search me O God and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts.
See if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Psalm 139:23-24

F. B. Meyer was one of the greatest Christian writers of the centuries. As a pastor, Meyer was successful, but not as he ought to have been. He had two friends, Charles Studd and Hudson Taylor, great men in the history of the church. They seemed to have victory day by day—joy and power in their lives. Meyer watched them. One day he went to Studd and said, “You have joy in your life that I don’t have.” Studd said, “There is nothing I have that you can’t have. Have you given everything to God?” 

Meyer went back to his room that night and began to pray. In his heart there had been something he did not want to yield to the Lord. It seemed like a small thing, but it was standing between him and victory. He wrestled with God that night until finally he came to the place where he had to do something. He took a bunch of keys out of his pocket and said, “Lord here it is. This key ring represents my life. I give it over to you.” And he said, “It seemed as if the Lord said to me, ‘Are all the keys there?’  ‘Yes Lord, they’re all there except one small key, a key to a little cupboard. But it’s just one little key.’ The Lord handed the keys back and started to walk out the door. I said, ‘Wait Lord. Don’t go. Here’s that key. I don’t believe I can give it to you, but I will hold it out. Please take it.’ The Lord took those keys, every one of them, and went into that cupboard and began to do a work, and my life was transformed.’”

So I have to ask myself and you a few questions in regard to this passage.  Is there some little key like that in your life or mine?  Some little cupboard where we say, “Lord, you can be Lord of all—except this.” Have we yielded?

I want to invite you to take this 21 Day Journey of Prayer & Fasting with me and watch God move in your life in 2013.  Usually, the first 3 days we ONLY have water and fruit juices.  The remaining 18 days is the Daniel Fast, which means no meats, breads, sweets, or dairy.  Basically, you eat all fruits and vegetables on the Daniel Fast.  If you'd like some tips or more information, visit http://www.gethope.info/ministries/fasting/index.html 

ALERT: Terrorism in the Church!

Here's a little something that I borrowed from a friend, Ric Veal.  How true it is and really felt like it needed to be shared with my readers.

Terrorists in our Churches
Latest news reports are that five terrorist cell groups have been operating in many of our churches. They have been identified as: Bin Sleepin, Bin Arguin, Bin Fightin, Bin Complainin, and Bin Missin. Their leader, Osama Bin Lucifer, trained these groups to destroy the Body of Christ.

The plan is to come into the church disguised as Christians and to work within the church to discourage, disrupt, and destroy. However, there have been reports of a sixth group. A tiny cell known by the name Bin Prayin is actually the only effective counter terrorism force in the church. Unlike other terrorist cells, the Bin Prayin team does not blend in with whoever and whatever comes along. Bin Prayin does whatever is needed to uplift and encourage the Body of Christ. We have noticed that the Bin Prayin cell group has different characteristics than the others.

They have Bin Watchin, Bin Waitin, Bin Fastin, and Bin Longin for their Master, Jesus Christ to return. And guess what, no church is exempt. However, you can spot them if you "bin lookin".


I want to encourage all Christians to be on the alert this year that satan is alive and well.  He is roaming about and seeking whom he may devour.  We need to wake up and realize when he is trying to destroy the fellowship of the Body of Christ and create confusion within.  Let's don't fall prey to misunderstandings, getting our feelings hurt, and missing in action.  Instead, let's be on the offense and deal with him before he launches his scheming tactics against us.  It's time to stop terrorism in the Church!  

Time Out!

Each year, my family and I take a break following Christmas so that we can rest, recharge, and celebrate all that God has done in our lives and ministry throughout the year.  Our lives and schedules are unlike those of anyone else.  In ministry, you are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  There are many weeks that we go without a day off or many important holidays and occasions that are interrupted with ministry calls, etc. So, it is vitally important to have a few times each year to rest, recharge, and renew.

Today began a 5 day rest for us as we make way for a brand new year in 2013.  We got up early and headed out to East Tennessee, where we got to spend Christmas with my in-laws.  It's always a great time of eating, fellowship, and gift exchanging.  They are always so supportive of the call of God on our family.  Afterwards, Natalie and I traveled to Knoxville to spend the night before heading to Pigeon Forge on Thursday.  It was a great night as we spent time watching Christmas movies and chatting with each other.  Great times!

Rest is vitally important for everyone.  Jesus did it regularly to set the example for us because He knew we would become tired and weary from this life that we live.  It was so important for Him to get away and spend time with His Father in heaven while taking a rest for the flesh and mind.  If you are not used to taking a break at the end of the year, this year would be a great time to start this in your life.  You'll see the difference it will make in allowing your life to have greater impact in the new year.

25 Days of Christmas - Day 25

Merry Christmas to you and your family from The Howard Family!

Today is that special day that we've all been waiting for...Christmas Day!  Make this day all about celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  One of the best ways you can do that is by giving your life to Him and by serving others.

Our family will be giving to the lonely, the hurting, the less fortunate by serving meals at Gondola's today for about 2 hours.  It's a great way to give back and minister to those who could never give anything in return.  What a joy to serve others with the love of Christ on Christmas and all year long!

Let's come and worship the new born King!

O Come, All Ye Faithful

Come and behold Him,

Born the King of Angels;

O come, let us adore Him

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name ,that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father
Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV)

Adoration is a word that we love to use during the Christmas season thanks largely to the classic carol O Come, All Ye Faithful as we sing, “O come, let us adore Him.” So many of us during the Christmas season spend more time thinking about Christ and giving Him adoration than any other time of the year. Think about it for a moment. More people go to church during Christmas than any other time of the year. We also tend to find ourselves singing and listening to songs about Jesus more during the Christmas season than any other time of year. As a result, Christmas is a time when we love to praise Him, honor Him, and adore Him much in the way Philippians 2:9-11 describes.

While it’s great that Christ earns so much of our attention and adoration during Christmas, it’s important to remember that we should pay that same amount of attention to Him 12 months a year instead of just one. Sure, it’s easier to get caught up in all the Christmas hype and spend more time thinking, singing, praying, and adoring Christ during December, but in order to have a true relationship with Christ we must adore and spend time with Him daily and not just during Christmas. This year as you move out of the Christmas season and back into the normalcy of life, strive to find a way to capture that Christmas spirit that will enable you to adore Him and grow with Him every day of your life.

What things keep you from adoring and spending time with Christ on a daily basis?
What steps will you take to ensure that you spend time daily with Christ?

25 Days of Christmas - Day 24

Today is Christmas Eve.  People everywhere are preparing to spend time with family and friends for parties and dinners.  Some are taking in some LAST minute shopping opportunities at the mall, shopping center, or their local Wal-Mart.  All around us, there is the rush and business of the holiday season.  I want to encourage you to stop and take a break in the midst of it all to focus on the reason that we celebrate in the first place...the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

At Bridges of Hope Fellowship, we're helping people to take that break in the midst of the rush.  We're offering two Christmas Eve Services to help people to refocus on the meaning for the season.  Join us tonight at 5 or 7 p.m. (CST) for a traditional carol candlelight Christmas Eve celebration.  We're located at 4023 Smithville Hwy. in McMinnville, TN.  I hope you'll bring your family out and maybe even start a new Christmas family tradition!  For more information or directions, visit us online at www.GetHope.info

I'd like to look at one of my all time favorite Christmas carols today, if would could.  It's "Silent Night."

Silent Night

Glories stream from heaven afar. Heavenly hosts sing Hallelujah!

Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born!

The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior.”    Jeremiah 23:5-6 NIV

When I was a child, we were poor. We rarely bought anything other than necessities throughout the year. About two months before Christmas, my parents asked me to write a list of all the things I wanted. I would pour through catalogs, to stores (before the internet) and dream about all the things I could possibly enjoy for the coming year. After my list was complete, I waited anxiously anticipating the gifts under the tree. The waiting felt like years, but it was worth the wait. Christmas morning was the best day! I spent the rest of the year enjoying my new toys!

God’s children, for hundreds of years, had anticipated the arrival of their Savior. Parents told their children of the coming King: The one who would save them all. Their kids told their kids. Everyone was anxiously awaiting the One they had heard about. The arrival of Jesus, their Savior, was a holy night. The heavens rejoiced. Angels sang. Shepherds quaked at the sight. At Christmas, we remember this day that heaven came to earth! The day God fulfilled His promise! The day God became man to redeem his children from a broken world. Your savior is here. He is present! You don’t have to anticipate something you already have. Celebrate. Enjoy the gift you have received!

In what areas of your life are you waiting and anticipating God’s presence?

25 Days of Christmas - Day 23

Angels From The Realms Of Glory

Angels from the realms of glory,

Wing your flight o’er all the earth;

Ye who sang creation’s story,

Now proclaim Messiah’s birth:

Come and worship,

Come and worship,

Worship Christ, the newborn King!

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Luke 2:13-14 NIV

The actions of the angels are one of the most exciting aspects of the Christmas story from Luke 2. First you have the angel who suddenly appears to the shepherds to tell them the good news of Jesus birth (Luke 2:9). Then, as if the shepherds haven’t had enough, there is a whole multitude of angels suddenly appearing in full concert to finish it off (Luke 2:13). This is such an epic celebration like nothing ever seen in the Bible, and it was displayed not for the government officials, the upper class of the city, or the spiritual elite, but for the lowly shepherds. What a beautiful tension and a perfect picture of the power of Christmas. It is the biggest news that mankind could ever know, its celebration is led by the very angels who hang out in the perfect presence of an all-powerful God, and the message is meant for the lowly and broken.

This old carol is such a simple but powerful reminder of all who have been invited to celebrate and to worship Jesus. Jesus is the most amazing gift given to us. God loved us so much that He sent His only son to enter humanity so that ultimately we could have the chance to be right before a holy God. That is the power of Christmas, and the angels understood it. The shepherds experienced it first-hand. The wise men believed it. They not only joined the worship celebration, but their excitement and worship inspired others to do the same. This Christmas, let our worship would be so authentic and exciting that we would draw others to “Come and worship; come and worship; Worship Christ the newborn King!”

How can you celebrate and worship Jesus throughout this Christmas season?

How can you inspire others to do the same?

25 Days of Christmas - Day 22

Breath Of Heaven

Breath of Heaven, Hold me together

Be forever near me, Breath of Heaven

Breath of Heaven, Light my darkness

Pour over me, your holiness, For you’re holy

Breath of Heaven

The LORD is my light and salvation – whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?      Psalm 27:1 NIV

So many of us hold Mary, the mother of Jesus, in a very high esteem because she was chosen by God to carry His Son and bring Him into the world. It was the greatest task anyone has ever been given. Even though we hold Mary in high esteem, it’s important to remember that she was a normal person just like us. In fact, she probably battled fear as much if not more so than most people. She was an unmarried teenager that found herself miraculously pregnant after an angel told her she would give birth to the Messiah. She was probably afraid of the great task that God had given her and dealt with fear from the backlash she and Joseph received because of the unique pregnancy. She was probably battled fear on their long journey to Jerusalem as she was nine months pregnant and taking a long journey on a donkey. Despite her fear, however, she remained faithful to God and the task they were given.

The song Breath of Heaven gives us a prayer that Mary most likely prayed asking God to hold her together, be near her, and to light her darkness. How many times have you prayed a similar prayer? Christmas is a joyous time, but the reality is that for many of us, it’s hard to experience that joy in the midst of all the turmoil and trials that are happening around us. Just as God protected and guided Mary through a difficult time, allow Him to guide you this Christmas. Pray and share with Him what troubles your spirit and allow Him to restore the joy of Christmas within you by holding you together, being forever near you, and lighting your darkness.

What trials are you enduring currently that ‘s robbing you of the joy of Christmas?

What are some things you can do to reclaim joy and hope in your life?

25 Days of Christmas - Day 21

Go Tell It On The Mountain!

When lo! above the earth rang out the angels’ chorus that hailed our Savior’s birth.

“...I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.”

Luke 2:10 NLT

The first time a woman finds out she is pregnant, she is filled with joy and searches for the best way to share the news with her husband, friends, and family. When a man is ready to propose marriage, he knows he has to find the right way to ask the question and share the news.

Words can sometimes fail to fully convey the truth of good news. So, when God was ready to bring Jesus into flesh on earth, how did He bring the Good News? In the greatest spectacle, “a vast host” of angels appeared to seemingly random shepherds in a middle-of-nowhere field. Holy light shone down and their voices rang out - it’s the sort of blockbuster, showstopper you would expect for the greatest event in history. The only odd thing is the audience (“lowly” shepherds), and how few of them were probably there. Maybe that goes to show that no stone should be left unturned when we are sharing news like this.

When Jesus began teaching, He did not spread the Good News by word alone. The blind received sight, the lame walked, and the dead were raised – all to communicate beyond words what the Good News meant.

Isaiah 62 shouted, “Tell the people of Israel, ‘Look your Savior is coming.” Jesus commanded the disciples to go to the ends of the earth. And in the classic spiritual, we are implored to “Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere! Go tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!”

Are you shouting out the Good News? Why or why not?

Is there a way for you to share the Good News in a more powerful way than through words?

25 Days of Christmas - Day 20

O Little Town Of Bethlehem

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie…

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, The silent stars go by

Yet in thy dark streets shineth, The everlasting Light

The hopes and fears of all the years, Are met in thee tonight

Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.       1 Corinthians 1:27-28 NLT

Bethlehem. A town which could be considered tiny and insignificant. Micah 5 describes Bethlehem as being “….small among the clans of Judah.” Yet Micah goes on to say “out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” Sure enough Jesus was born in Bethlehem some 700 years later.
The significance of insignificant Bethlehem can’t be understated. God loves to work in amazing ways through the unlikely and the overlooked. It’s easy for all of us to feel undervalued and unimportant, but that is exactly the type of person God will use. Think of the endless ways God could use you if you surrender to His will.

Actually Bethlehem did have some significance before Jesus’ birth. Among other things it was also the birthplace of David, Israel’s greatest Old Testament warrior and king. However, this is also another example of God’s amazing province. David after all was the youngest son of Jesse who considered him the unlikeliest of his boys to become king. But God saw through all that and had him anointed the next ruler of Israel. Again God was working in ways that are outside of man’s conventional wisdom.
We tend to see our life and circumstances through a man made perspective. Once we realize that the Lord works in mysterious ways which are far above our own we will be more ready for Him to use us in an exciting way.

Of course nothing has more significance than the birth, life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. How unlikely is it that it would begin one quiet, peaceful night in a quiet, peaceful town. The “everlasting Light”, the “hopes and fears of all the years” all started in the “…Little Town of Bethlehem.” You can’t make this stuff up and thankfully it’s not.

How have you seen God use seemingly insignificant people and events in your life or the lives of others?

Have you ever felt overlooked? What effect has that had on you?
What action will you take to allow God to use you in a significant way?