The "Gift" in Giving

I'm sitting on the couch watching Oprah... catching up on DVR shows and working on home school lessons. Today's show in particular is about big surprises that Oprah has been able to give a variety of people throughout the years. It's amazing to see the reaction on the faces of people who have been given the opportunity to meet a favorite celebrity, warm up with their dream professional baseball team, own a home when they had been homeless. My personal favorite, Rwandan refuges are united with their parents that they had been separated from for 12 years.

I admit, I'm an emotional person and the tears come easily. It's so exciting for me to see these people being given so much after life circumstances had taken so much away. What an amazing feeling it is just to WATCH someone ELSE give amazing gifts to people who are so deserving. I can't help but desire to experience that amazing act of giving myself! Imagine how much sweeter it is to be the giver.

One month to live... a chance to give. I'm going to find as many opportunities to change someones life by giving! I challenge you to do the same and share your experiences with your girlfriends! We may not be able to introduce our friends to a celebrity, but I'm sure you can think of gifts that will change their outlook or change their lives! Cook a meal; clean a house; watch a child so someone can have a much needed date night. Buy a bag of groceries, drive someones child to soccer practice, or write a card telling someone how amazing they are when you don't usually take the time. Fill a tank with gas, invite someone to church, mow a lawn. The opportunities are endless.

Don't forget, Jesus said that when we do for the least of these, it's as if we're serving HIM directly! I'm anxious to hear about all the creative ways you find to give this month!

The LITTLE Things

I once heard in a sermon that "Ministry happens in the interruptions of life". It seems that when we're busy, overwhelmed, and over-loaded, someone or somebody comes along needing a helping hand. At times - we just can't imagine how this interruption could be a ministry opportunity. The writing below was sent to me by one of our girlfriends, Sheri. It was a great reminder to me that God is in control. He has a plan and purpose for all aspects of our lives and the day-to-day events that we encounter. Do we look at them as opportunities or frustrations?

As you might remember, the head of a company survived 9/11 because his son started kindergarten. Another fellow was alive because it was His turn to bring donuts. One woman was late because her Alarm clock didn't go off in time. One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike because of an auto accident. One of them Missed his bus. One spilled food on her clothes and had to take time to change. One's Car wouldn't start. One couldn't Get a taxi. The one that struck me was the man Who put on a new pair of shoes that morning, Took the various means to get to work But before he got there, he developed A blister on his foot. He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid. That is why he is alive today.

Now when I am Stuck in traffic, miss an elevator, turn back to answer a ringing telephone ...
all the little things that annoy me, I think to myself, "This is exactly where God wants me to be at this very moment." Next time your morning seems to be going wrong , the children are slow getting dressed, you can't seem to find the car keys, you hit every traffic light, don't get mad or frustrated; It May just be that God is at work watching over you. May God continue to bless you with all those annoying little things and may you remember their possible purpose.

The Devil & The Duck

Great little story - thanks to Maria for sending it our way!

There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods, but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner. As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it. He was shocked and grieved! In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile; only to see his Sister watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing. After lunch the next day Grandma said, 'Sally, let's wash the dishes', but Sally said, 'Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen. Then she whispered to him, "Remember the duck?" So Johnny did the dishes. Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, "I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper." Sally just smiled and said, "well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help?" She whispered again, "Remember the duck?" So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help. After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's, he finally couldn't stand it any longer. He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."

Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done - and the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, gossip, etc., you need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing. He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you. The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness, He not only forgives you, but He forgets. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved.

Four Questions Wives Should Ask Their Husbands

This is a post from Perry Noble's blog, pastor of NewSpring Church in South Carolina. I thought it was incredible and wanted to share it with our Girlfriends! You can visit his blog sometime at www.perrynoble.com.

Ladies - as you read this, let me challenge you, for once, to put YOUR feelings, thoughts, or frustrations with your husband aside. Ask him these questions and allow him to be honest with you without getting defensive. There will be time for him to reciprocate later. This may be a first step of many in making huge improvements in your marriage! Think you're doing everything right? Ask him these questions anyway, you may be surprised at what you hear.

A few weeks ago I did this post about Five Questions Husbands Should Ask Their Wives that got a lot of attention…and I received a lot of communication from women and men asking, “what should wives ask their husbands?” So…I thought I would give it a shot! (Tried to think of five…but the truth is men just don’t need as much conversation as women do!) :-)

#1 - Do You Feel Admired?
Ladies, your husband wants to know that YOU think he looks good–period! AND…you should NEVER allow someone at work to tell him “that looks good on you,” or, “you look good in that shirt.” He’s YOUR husband…and YOU should do all that you can to make sure you admire him!
Trust me…there isn’t a man on this planet that doesn’t want to hear “I think you are hot/sexy/all that and a bag of chips” from the lady he most admires and desires! And ladies…you cannot take for granted–HE WANTS and NEEDS to hear this from you!

Trust me…NO ONE’S opinion matters to me more than Lucretia’s…and if she says I look good–then DANG IT…I do! What is SO dangerous is that often times men will have someone in their lives that makes them feel admired–satan will make sure of that!!! BUT…if he is getting the attention/admiration from his wife then it makes it SO much easier to lead with confidence and resist temptation that comes his way. SO…ask him…does he feel admired by you? It DOES matter to him!

#2 - Do You Feel Respected?
EVERY man wants respect! AND…every man wants to be respected by his wife. (Ladies–STOP IT…I know some of you are saying right now, “well, when he begins to be respectable then I will…”) That isn’t the point here…the question is from YOU to HIM…and it do you feel respected?

Let me give you a few insights…
His answer is going to be “no” if you are always telling your children what a loser their father is and that you wish he were a better dad to them.
His answer is going to be “no” if you are always telling your girlfriends (usually in the form of a prayer request) what a low life he is and how he drives you crazy.
His answer is going to be “no” if he has shared vulnerable thoughts and emotions with you…and you take that information and use it as a “conversation piece” with your lunch buddies!
His answer is going to be “no” if you have never taught your children to thank him for the way he provides and such.
His answer is going to be “no” if you are NEVER interested in what he is doing. (I am amazed at how many women don’t even know what their husband does at work…or what his favorite hobby is.)
One of his BIGGEST NEEDS is to feel respected…and the person he needs it from the most is his wife!
So…ask him.

#3 - Do You Feel Taken Care Of?
Every man, from time to time, wants to be able to come home and relax for a few minutes…to take off his shoes and just sit down. BUT…when a wife stands at the door and barks out orders before the garage door closes…a man feels pressured and pressed down…and honestly begins to think, “I should have stayed at work…at least there I get treated like I am somebody!”

This does not negate the fact he needs to show up and serve…but from time to time…give him a break when he hits the door and let him catch his breath. Trust me…this is HUGE!

#4 - Is Our Sex Life Fulfilling To You?
Anytime “men” are discussed in marriage you just KNOW that SEX is going to be a topic of discussion!
BTW…if you don’t want to ask this question…you probably already know the answer!
In every survey that I’ve ever read sex is ranked #1 by men in regards to what they need (I think breathing is #2!)

Men want to know that their wife wants them…sexually. Believe me…it DOES matter to him. And ladies…just the fact that you take the time to ask this question will mean more to him than you could ever imagine.
AND…the ONLY way this area of a marriage will get better is if couples are willing to talk about it. My gosh…YOU’RE MARRIED!

If their has been pain and disappointment in the past–that needs to be talked about. If their have been unmet expectations on your part…then that needs to be talked about. YES, I know it “takes two to tango…” BUT…
The purpose of this question is for you to ask does he feel taken care of in this area. I KNOW this can be SO uncomfortable for so many couples right now…but you can either deal with it now…OR you WILL deal with it later.
Uncomfortable conversations must take place at times in order for a marriage to achieve its maximum potential!

So…ladies…there you go.

Slumdog Women

If you're following our new sermon series you know that Jeff has been talking about "Slumdog Disciples". This email Maria sent to me just seemed to really emphasize Jeff's sermon point - "Blessed are the poor in spirit":

Women have strengths that amaze men.

They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.

They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their family and friends.

Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,

IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

How true this can be. So many of our amazing girlfriends have come to me for guidance or counsel. Much of the time I find that they suffer from a low self-esteem and feel they have no talents, abilities, or gifts. Some have told me that they feel they have no purpose. Last weekend in his sermon, Jeff reminded us that our worth is NOT in anything we can offer to Jesus, but in what He gives us! I'm thankful that my worth comes from HIM!

Celebrate Your Father!

For some of us, it's easy to celebrate our fathers. Memories of a happy home, Godly values, and a safe place give us warm feelings. For others, memories of dad may be questionable with neglect, abuse, or no father at all in the picture.

Regardless - if you have put your faith and trust in Jesus, He is the father you can now depend on. Jesus is the father who will never neglect, abuse, or hurt. He's always there, waiting patiently to love us and help us through difficult times or bring joy to us in the good times.

Whether or not you choose to celebrate your "dad" today... take time to celebrate, thank, and show love to your heavenly father.

Happy Father's Day!

Blank Check!

A blank check... can you imagine?  A check is in your possession with a blank dollar amount waiting for you to fill in the blanks.  Most importantly, there are an endless amount of funds to back up that check!

Philippians 4:19 says, "My God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

How rich is God?  Rich enough to cover all your needs and then some!  He's generous enough to give forgiveness that we never deserved.  He's the creator of the universe and owns all that is within it!  He's merciful and willing to give us His provisions to meet all our needs - physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Take a moment to thank God today for the blank check He's written in your name!

Love In Its Purest Form

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:4 – 7).

As you go through this check list of the attributes of love, how is God speaking to you?  Is this how you show love to your neighbors, friends, husband, children, co-workers?    Regardless of how they treat you, how are you showing love, true love, pure love, to them?

If you're like me - there are many areas where you need work.  Don't let it overwhelm you.  Ask God to move in you and start making small changes today!

Count Your Blessings!

I received this email from one of our girlfriends, Liz, recently and wanted to share it with you.  Great reminder for us all!

Sometimes I have mornings where I feel burdened by my job or personal finances, or I’ll feel trapped in an apartment, or overwhelmed with things I have to do... but I’m so blessed.  So beyond blessed and it’s only my selfishness and sin telling me otherwise.  Today at work, (if you don’t know… I work for a law firm that does foreclosures) – I foreclosed a “home” that just made my jaw drop… and it reminded me that I have no reason to ever complain. 

Just thought I’d share a friendly reminder and encourage you all to remember how blessed we truly are…

The Refiner's Fire

Here's a great devotion that I received from Adrienne today! I loved it and thought I would pass it on.

Malachi 3:3 says:
'He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.'

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?' He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Walking In the Light

1 John 1:5-6 (The Message)
Walk in the Light. This, in essence, is the message we heard from Christ and are passing on to you: God is light, pure light; there's not a trace of darkness in him.
If we claim that we experience a shared life with him and continue to stumble around in the dark, we're obviously lying through our teeth—we're not living what we claim.

Wow! This doesn't leave much room to slip, does it? God's word is pretty clear. God is HOLY. If we're in a sincere relationship with Him, our lives should exhibit behavior that displays His holiness. Otherwise, we're hypocrites! One of the number one turn-offs for those who don't know Christ is when a "so-called" Christian acts just like the rest of the world. What's the point of becoming a Christian if there's no difference in your life from the lives of others?

What actions do friends, neighbors, and co-workers see in you every day that show evidence of you walking in the light? We're not just talking about telling your friend that you attend church. What do your friends actually see in YOU? Either it's pure light, or there is a hint of darkness. Attitude, character, benevolence, mercy, even when stakes are high and you've had a horrible day... these are the best opportunities to really show Christ to others.

It's a conscious effort to make choices that glorify God. Let's pray for each other that our girlfriends will show the light of Jesus in all that we do and truly walk in His light.

Complaining, Gossiping, and Sulking - Not An Option!

One of our girlfriends, Cindy Minatre, sent this to me today and I thought I'd share it with you all.

There are two conditions in life:  Accept things as they exist, or accept responsibility for changing them.  by Dr. Dennis Waitley

This quote isn't a Bible verse, but it speaks some Biblical truth.  God calls us to be content in all circumstances.  He won't give us more than we can handle, and there are lessons to be learned in any trial.  Sometimes we need to accept things the way they are.

God also calls us to make a difference in our world.  He commands us to take ACTION when we choose to follow Him; Christianity is not a spectator sport.  EVERYONE is called to go, tell, and minister to people in every walk of life.

Paul pleaded for God to take the "thorn" from his flesh and give him relief.  We don't know for sure what his thorn was.  A difficult person?  A persistent physical pain or condition?  A need/want that he hoped to have fulfilled?  Regardless, when it was not removed, He continued to serve Christ and do so with joy.  

So for today, which will you choose?  You notice that complaining, gossiping, and sulking are not options.  What is God asking you to do now in your specific circumstance?  Pray about it.  Talk through it with a trusted Christian friend.  He'll guide you to the right decision.

Prayers for the New Year!

As we enter into our activities, parties, food, friends, and more for New Year's Eve - we'll no doubt take time to think through monumental events that have occurred over the past year.  We'll probably look to the new year and find places where we can change, grow, and meet new goals and plans.

In addition to this important time of reflection and renewal, take a moment to pray.  Ask God to guide the choices you make in the new year.  Ask for a closer walk with Him and for specific steps you can take to ensure you make progress.  Pray for your leaders in the new year - at church, work, home, and for our country as a whole.  Pray for your Girlfriends at Living Hope that we would be a light to our communities and honor God with our efforts.  Pray for a friend or acquaintance that God will provide you with an opportunity to lead them to Christ.  

Enjoy the parties, fun, or extra sleep!  Just don't forget the giver of new life and new beginnings in the midst of it all.

Love you all! - Jamie

Post Holiday Blues

Family is gone - or you've gone home.  Friends are getting back to the normal routine.  Everyone is talking about diets, exercise, and all that they did or didn't accomplish last year.  Couple that with the current economy and it can leave one feeling lonely, depressed, or with a feeling of hopelessness.  "If this is all I could accomplish this year, what makes me think that next year will be any better?"     It's very normal to experience post holiday blues.

The good news is that Christ wants so much more for us!  He's called us into a life of joy that comes from a relationship with Him.  The past doesn't matter... it's only a picture of what He's rescued us from.  When we look to our future, it's our chance to dream and pray for the fullness of life He wants us to experience.  

Colossians 3:1-4 tells us this (The Message):

So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.

What a blessing to know that whatever happened in our past, whether we chose it, or it chose us, is over!  We have a new life in Him and a new year to begin again.  Make it your goal to "set your mind on things above" and commit yourself to attending a Lifegroup, digging into God's Word, or starting up a mentorship with a woman of faith you trust.

Take Some Risks!

I saw this on my mom's blog today and thought it was a great reminder. I decided to share it with you all.

I read something today that said your life is enriched if you are a risk taker--you'll experience joy, but you'll also experience tears.
We need to step out in faith and do whatever God is leading is today, whether we're thinking about something easy like working with a new ministry at the church, teaching a class, or whatever. Take a risk this week!

God Is In Control!

The results are in and history has been made. Barack Obama is in preparation mode to lead our country in a new direction. Whether you voted for Obama, McCain, or another candidate, one thing is clear: God is in control! As our nation struggles to overcome financial crisis, reform health care, education, and so much more, your prayers are needed! Pray that God will lead our elected officials in the direction that He would have them go. Pray that they will be open to His leading above all. Regardless of your opinion, hope, frustration, excitement or worry, rejoice and be glad - God is in Control!

Psalm 46:1-7 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

Approval Seekers

Hi girlfriends! It's been WAY TOO LONG! I think our household has gone upside down - but we're getting back to "normal". I wanted to share with you from a devotion I read today.

Paul wrote to the people of Galatia about the gospel of Christ. He warns us that some will come along who try to preach something other than the TRUE Word of God. At times, it can sound so convincing, that we want to believe it. He warns us to be careful and only allow the truth that comes from God's Word to permeate our hearts. It wasn't easy for Paul to share this message. It was a hard truth that they needed to hear. In Galatians 1:20, he follows it up by asking, Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

As women, it's easy to worry about what others think of us. Many times in my own life, concern for what others think has been so strong that it's driven me to make decisions that I wouldn't have made otherwise. (I'm not just talking about what to order from a menu or which color of blouse to buy). When our closest friends, family, and trusted acquaintances disagree with a direction we choose to take in life, it can be difficult. When this happens, will you be strong? Don't forget, it's the approval of GOD we seek, not that of those around us! As long as you're in the center of HIS will, nothing else matters. I encourage you to seek God's perfect plan for your life. Read His Word, pray often, and seek Godly counsel to make decisions that would be pleasing to Him.

A Mother's Work Is Never Done

We'll - it's official! We voted, and it seems that our mothers had the most positive influence on us as we grew up. For some, a teacher, friend, or other mentor contributed, but for most, it was our mothers! If you're a mother, what are you doing to ensure that your influence is being used the way God would direct you?

Deuteronomy 6: 5-9 says, Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates.

As a mom, we never get a moment's rest. Everything we say and do, should be in the name of Jesus, teaching our children about Him every step of the way. It's a challenge, but one that is possible with God's helps.

Not a mom?!? That's okay. You're still called to love the Lord your God as this scripture instructs. And who knows? You may be the other person who influences someone more than their own mom. Take every opportunity to show a child the love of Christ.

Overworked and Underpaid?

Do you sometimes feel like you're stuck living a life that doesn't matter?  

You may be working day-after-day in a job where you don't feel appreciated.  You have a boss who doesn't care about your circumstances.  You work harder than anyone else around you, yet others are praised and you are ignored.  You're taking care of an aging parent and your siblings won't compromise or help in any way.  Maybe your role as a wife or mother feels empty and meaningless.  Your husband wants a "thank you" for taking out the trash once a month, but do you ever get thanked for cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, serving as the tutor, nurse, taxi driver, counselor, and more EVERY DAY?  Wow!  It can all be so overwhelming.  What does God's Word have to say about the way you serve and the reward you deserve?  I've continued my focus on Colossians recently and ran across this very issue.

Servants, do what you're told by your earthly masters. And don't just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you'll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you're serving is Christ.  Colossians 3:22-25

We don't work for our boss.  We don't work for our husband.  We don't work for our family, church, or community.  We work for our heavenly master, God, who is always true to His promises.  I'm encouraged to know that I can - and should - give the best I have to offer in everything I do.  At work, at home, in my relationships, I will commit to giving my best.  I may not receive an earthly reward or the thanks and encouragement I think I deserve.  I'm comforted to know that one day, I'll be paid in full when I inherit my eternal reward.  In fact, it feels good to know that my work is way more important than I ever thought before.  It's a work for Christ.

Waiting for Lightning

Are you waiting for lightning? Do you want to serve Christ or find a way to minister to people around you, but feel like you need to wait for a sign or special invitation? Sometimes I feel that way. I feel like I need to study Jesus more, improve my prayer life, fix all the issues in my family or with my attitude. It's hard to imagine Jesus using me to do something helpful when I feel so far from "ready". In a recent quiet time I read the following scripture and it really stood out to me.

"My counsel for you is simple and straight forward: Just go ahead with what you've been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live Him. You're deeply rooted in Him. You're well constructed upon Him. You know your way around the faith. Now, do what you've been taught. School's out. Quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving!" Colossians 2:6-7 (The Message)

What are we waiting for? If we've asked Christ to forgive us and be #1 in our lives - He has! The power of the Holy Spirit is living in us and ready to move! We need to LIVE HIM and share our faith with those around us. I'm so thankful I don't have to work on the level of a Bible Scholar or Theologian to serve Christ. I can share my experience with others, invite them to church or small group, and actively serve them in a real way every day!