I spent Thursday and Friday with four others from our staff at the Double14 Conference at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. NewSpring is one of the five largest churches in America, averaging about 30,000 each Sunday on their nine campuses in our state. We were challenged and encouraged. We learned and had lots of discussion about numerous topics. But one of the really neat things about our time there was getting to hang out with Jordan Smith.

Jordan grew up in our church. I baptized him when he was a kid. His mom is still an active member at FBC. Jordan’s story is an example of how God works in people’s lives.

Living in Florence, SC and off to a good start in his chosen profession, Jordan was doing pretty well. Making a good living and starting their marriage would be enough for most people. But as Jordan tells it, he wasn’t really happy with what he was doing and where his life was headed. God was working in his heart.

Jordan was active at the Florence campus of NewSpring Church, helping with the youth ministry. That is when God opened the door for Jordan to join the staff at his church as their “Service Producer.” He basically coordinates various technical and media aspects of their weekly worship services. He left his job, took a pay cut, and obeyed God. He is also very happy. That’s what happens when a person follows God’s plan their life – they find happiness.

Jordan and some of his team joined us for dinner Thursday evening and it was obvious he had made the right decision. As he said, “Steve, I was made for this.”

I know you’ll join me in praying for Jordan. While you’re at it, pray for NewSpring – and pray for FBC. Then invite someone to come with you tomorrow. Remember one big combined service @ 10 AM.

(check out the photo of Jordan below – also follow me on Instagram at steve_hogg and see more)

A couple of quick notes…

Several of our FBC students who’ve gone to Clemson have gotten plugged into NewSpring Church in recent years. For some of them it has been life changing. I hear their stories. This week I got to hear even more. I also got to hear more of NewSpring’s story. God is using them.

This Sunday, during our Refresh service – which you don’t want to miss because it will be inspiring – I look forward to introducing to you some members of our church who are joining our staff to serve the Lord by serving our children. It’s going to be a good day.

Pastor Steve Hogg