Greetings Greater Ohio,
We are praying for each of you as you continue this important Kingdom Work that we have been called to. Know that your efforts, even the small ones, are making a big difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Thank you for your dedication to the Kingdom’s work.
We welcome Pastor Mike Erdel and his family to Chapel Hill Wesleyan Church, Weirton, as the new pastor and family.
This past Sunday was their first Sunday. Be praying with them. Wife, Kim, and children, Samantha, Michael, Abigail, Ellie, Elijah, and Elena Grace.
Along with the Erdel family these pastors are new or new to their current church. Be praying with these pastors and their families.
Lyn Passet – Carey Beech Grove
Josh Fakhoury – Christ Community
Randy Clour – Newark Community
Jonathan and Cosetta Priest – Fairfield – (no pic available)
Wade Swickard – Jackson
Doug Calhoun – Toronto
FINDING FREEDOM IN GOD
The challenge for 2025 is to Lead Like a Champion. In week one, I shared these five steps.
- Lead with vision
- Lead by example
- Lead with faith and courage
- Lead by serving other
- Lead with a kingdom mindset
If we are going to Lead Like a Champion, then we do these four things. Lead people to:
- Know God
- Find freedom
- Discover purpose
- Make a difference
Last week, we began with Knowing God. Here are the key points:
- The foundation of leadership is to lead others to know God
- How to know God personally
- The results of knowing God
- Leading others to know God
This week, we will focus on Finding Freedom in God: A Leadership and Life Perspective
- What Does Freedom in God Mean?
- Freedom in God is the ability to live fully in the identity, purpose, and power He has given us through Jesus Christ.
- John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.”
- This freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want; It’s about being freed from sin, shame, fear, and the pressures of the world to live as God designed us to live.
True freedom comes from surrendering to God, not from independence.
- How to Find Freedom in God
- Recognize your need: Admit that you cannot find true freedom through your own strength. [Romans 3:23]
- Trust in Christ’s Finished Work: Jesus has already secured your freedom through His death and resurrection. Believe in and receive His gift. [Galatians 5:1]
- Let Go of Burdens: Surrender your fears, failures, and past to God, trusting Him to carry them. [Matthew 11:28-30]
- Renew Your Mind: Replace lies with God’s truth by meditating on His Word.
- Walk in The Spirit: Let the Holy Spirit guide your choices and empower you daily. [2 Cor. 3:17]
Freedom comes from embracing God’s truth and relying on His strength, not our own.
- What does Freedom in God look like?
- Freedom from Sin: You are no longer a slave to sinful habits or guilt. [Romans 6:6-7]
- Freedom From Fear: God’s perfect love drives out fear: [1 John 4:18]
- Freedom From Comparison: Your worth is found in God, not in other’s opinions. [Galatians 1:10]
- Freedom For Purpose: You are free to live out God’s plan for your life. [Ephesians 2:10]
- Freedom in Worship: You can approach God boldly and joyfully. [Hebrews 4:16]
Leaders who find freedom in God inspire others to step into their God-given identity and purpose.
- Practical Steps to Walk in Freedom
- Daily Surrender: Start each day by giving your worries, goals, and plans to God.
- Practice Gratitude: Focus on God’s blessings instead of life’s challenges.
- Surround Yourself with Encouragement: Be a part of a community that builds you up in faith.
- Live in Forgiveness: Forgive others as God has forgiven you, letting go of bitterness. [Ephesians 4:32]
- Proclaim His Truth: Speak God’s promises over your life and reject lies.
- Freedom as a Leader
Leaders who live in God’s freedom:
- Lead with Confidence: They trust God’s power over their own limitations.
- Inspire hope: They model peace, joy, and faith, even in challenges.
- Empower Others: They help others see their potential and find freedom in Christ.
Freedom in God is a journey, not a one-time event. It grows as we trust Him more, align our hearts with His truth, and surrender our lives to His will. When we find freedom in God, we don’t just live better lives – we lead others to experience the same freedom in Christ.
Prayer for Freedom:
“Lord, thank you for the freedom You have given me through Jesus. Help me to live in that freedom daily, trusting your power and promises. Remove the chains of fear, sin, and doubt in my life. Let me walk in boldness, joy, and purpose, reflecting Your love and inspiring others to find their freedom in You. Amen.”