I appreciate each one who reads this blog. I have met many people who do so. It is a real joy.

Thanks to each of you who do not attend my local fellowship. On Saturdays, I often write “a little something extra” to our church–that’s what lagniappe (lan-yap) means. Thanks for letting me do this and share it with you as well. If you are “stuck,” look for these opportunities in a church in your community.

I often hear people talk about being stuck or not being able to make any real progress. They often mean they are simply stuck in the middle and can’t go forward and can’t go back.

How do you get off dead center? How do you get where you want to be and where you know you ought to be?

Today’s sermon has to do with speaking the truth. It also has to do with the ultimate goal of our Christian lives – to become like Jesus, to be conformed to the image of Christ.

What can I do to get where I want to be?

First, take advantage of the Discovery Class meeting Sunday evening, August 17 at 5 PM. We set up our Discovery Class years ago for new members and those interested in church membership. Through the years we’ve tweaked the class in hopes of putting together just the kind of event that will help people get off dead center and into becoming like Jesus.

Second, find a Bible Fellowship Group (BFG). Our Bible Fellowship Groups are designed to help you get in the midst of a group of people who will encourage you in your growth in Christ. We get to know each other, pray for each other, and look at the Word of God to let God show us who we are and what He wants to do in our lives.

A BFG is so important that I put it this way: if you have only one hour to give then make sure you become a part of a Bible Fellowship Group.

Third, find a place to serve God and minister in his name. Nothing will get you off dead center quicker than ministering in the name of Christ.

Soon, we will begin a new ministry program to help you understand what God has equipped you to do. This is called Place – it’s finding your place in God’s work of ministry. There is something about giving to others and serving for the sake of Christ that seems to make all the difference in our lives.

I hope that you will take these opportunities to get off dead center.

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