Jesus often withdrew from the crowds by retreating to the mountains to be with His Father. This week I’m at the beach on a study retreat so I can be with our Father. I’m listening to His voice. I’m reading scripture and books, writing notes and ideas, meditating and thinking, praying and walking. I’m seeking His guidance for preaching in 2015. But this is about more than sermons. He speaks to me about my life and our church. I need – we need – His guidance on so many issues.

I’m half-way through this retreat. It’s going well. He is speaking.

But there is more He wants to say and I need to hear Him – clearly. Pray for me. Pray that I hear Him. Pray that my weaknesses don’t get in the way. Pray that my faith is large enough to accept what He says. Pray that I discern not only what He wants me to say and preach, but the very words He wants me to use when I say and preach it. Pray that my heart will be in tune with what He says to me.

Finally, pray for yourself – and our church. Pray that you – and our church – will be ready to hear what our Father says. Pray that you – and our church – respond in faith and obedience to His voice when He speaks to your heart – to our hearts.

Thanks for praying!

Pastor Steve Hogg