JBC Men's Ministry
Winter 2009
"As iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another." - Proverbs 27:17

Mark Bogue
December, 2009
________________________________________
Long after this snow has turned to water, the Christmas season and new year has come
and gone, will our faith be stronger than the year before. If it is true, that what we say and do
today, significantly affects the outcome of tomorrow and the next day and the next...

Hunters, athletes and men in their professions all know that it takes consistent practice,
patience and persistence to stay on top of their game. One must take careful aim and
continue to develop the skills and the attitude necessary to stay on target. As Christian men,
we know that just having faith is not enough to keep us on track.  Life has too many
obstacles that push us back and knock us down from time to time. Every time we are
thrown for a loop we try and get back up, dust ourselves off and keep going. We've all
been there and know that sooner or later we are going to get hit again.

God speaks these words to the prophet Jeremiah, which still rings true for all of us. He
say's, "I've got plans for you, and I know what I am doing. I have it all planned out- I will take
care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on
me, you will find me. Yes, when you get serious about me and want it more than anything
else, I'll make sure you will not be disappointed."

That is God's decree to us, our hope and promise. But we must make the effort. It is all
or nothing. We must give it all and not give up. It begins with humbling ourselves before
the Lord. We turn our hearts to serving and loving others. We are called upon to use our
talents and abilities. And we are to ask God to make us a better man than we were
yesterday. It takes courage to step up in our faith and be the kind of father, husband or
brother that God wants us to be.

The leaders of Jersey Baptist and the Men's Ministry encourages all of us to be
connected in a bible fellowship, a community group or a men's small group. If we are to
grow in our faith and share our Christianity with others, we must be in fellowship with one
another. Contact us and let us know how we can minister to you and stay connected and
focused on the goal and prize that God has set before us.

Your brothers in Christ,
Men's Ministry