Greetings Greater Ohio,
We would like to take a moment to say thank you for your stories and pictures. They are an incredible source of encouragement to all of us. They remind us of the work God is doing through His people and the impact we’re making together for His Kingdom.
Please continue to share your stories – especially those of discipleship, life transformation, and spiritual growth taking place in your churches. These testimonies not only inspire but also remind us of God’s faithfulness and the power of the Gospel to change lives.
We are praying for each of you as you continue this important work. 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. Keep the stories coming – let’s celebrate what God is doing together!
Last week I shared that I pray that we all choose to lead like a champion. That means that we:
1. Lead with vision
2. Lead by example
3. Lead with faith and courage
4. Lead by serving others
5. Lead with a kingdom mindset
I believe if we are going to lead the champions, we will help people to:
● Know God
● Find freedom
● Discover purpose
● Make a difference
Over the next four weeks, I will take each of these one at a time and share more perspectives. I believe there are four key areas to focus on in our personal lives and how we lead others.
Knowing God
1. The foundation of Leadership: Knowing God
● True leadership begins with a relationship with God. To lead others effectively, we must first be led by Him.
● John 17:3: and this is the way to have eternal life, know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. NLT
Knowing God shapes who we are, what we do, and how we lead.
2. How to Know God Personally
● Seek Him daily: Spend intentional time in His word and prayer. Jeremiah 29:13 ● Worship and acknowledge Him: Praise Him for who he is and what He has done.
● Walk in obedience: Knowing God grows deeper through living out His word. 1 John 2:3
● Rely on the Holy Spirit: The Spirit reveals God’s heart and guides us into truth. John 14:26
Build habits of daily devotion to grow in intimacy with God.
3. The results of Knowing God
● Identity: We find our worth and purpose in Him. Ephesians 2:10
● Confidence: Knowing God leads to unwavering trust in his promises. ● Direction: His voice guides us in leadership and decisions. Proverbs 3:5-6 ● Strength: We are equipped to face challenges with His power. Isaiah 40:31
Leaders who know God are secure in their calling, steady in trials, and intentional about pointing others to Him.
4. Leading others to Know God
● Model Faith: Live out your faith authentically. Let others see your relationship with God through your words and actions.
● Teach Truth: Help others understand who God is through his word and the Gospel. 2 Timothy 3:16
● Encourage Intimacy: Equip the people you serve with tools to grow in their personal relationship with God.
● Serve in Love: Leaders who know God inspire others to seek him.
To know God is to be transformed by His presence. As leaders, our greatest calling is not just to accomplish tasks but to live in a relationship with Him and inspire others to do the same. When we know God, we lead with purpose, love, and unwavering faith.
I pray that we are ready to lead like a champion in 2025. Step forward boldly, knowing that God has called you, equipped you and is with you every step of the way. May this year be a season of courageous, faithful leadership for the glory of God.
In His Service,
Pastor Les