Happy New Year! The beginning of a new year brings fresh opportunities to renew our commitment to Christ and to live in ways that have lasting Kingdom impact. Many people start the year by setting resolutions or goals—some follow through, others do not. Still, I believe it is good and healthy to establish goals and develop a renewed vision for how God can use our lives for His glory.

As I have prayed and asked God to reveal areas in my life where I can grow and be more effective in the mission He has called me to, I would like to share a few commitments I am making this year.

First, I have a strong desire to continue growing closer to the Lord. I am committing to spending more intentional time each day in God’s Word. Every time I study Scripture, God reveals more of Himself to me, and I am reminded of how much I need Him. I am also committing to praying more consistently throughout the day. These are foundational disciplines that I believe all of us who desire more of God should intentionally pursue.

Second, I am setting a goal to become a better leader and encourager to our pastors and churches. I deeply love our pastors and the churches within our network, and I truly desire for our churches to work together and encourage one another as we reach more people with the Gospel. This is why we exist as an association of churches—we can accomplish far more together than we ever could alone. I look forward to serving our pastors and churches this year and seeing what God will do as we seek His guidance to be Acts 1:8 churches.

Lastly, I am committing to personally leading more people to Christ. It is easy to overlook those who are lost in our communities when we become consumed with other responsibilities. We do not need more resources on how to share the Gospel—we simply need to share it and testify to how Christ has changed our lives. More than 75 percent of the people in our communities are unchurched and likely lost. I am praying that God will give me His compassion to reach those who feel hopeless and to show them that true hope is found only in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

These are just a few areas I am focusing on this year, and I am confident many of you have similar goals. Let us commit to praying for one another and encouraging each other to remain faithful to the Lord and focused on the mission He has given us. There is no greater work than leading people to Christ, discipling them, and equipping them to make disciples of others.

It is a joy to serve as your missionary and strategist. I look forward to worshiping in our churches, sharing resources, and providing training that will help strengthen each congregation. May God be honored and glorified this year as we strive to be the churches He is calling us to be.

Pressing On Toward the Goal!

Bro. Gary

Bro. Gary is available for pulpit supply or to lead worship as needed. He’s also available to help churches with strategy planning. If you’d like to connect with him, please call 229-406-1445.

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National Day of Prayer 2026

"Tell of His glory among the nations,

His wonderful deeds among all the peoples." 1 Chronicles 16:24 NASB

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National Day of Prayer 2026