Since making our announcement of planting a church in Austin, I have begun to hear from people in Austin and elsewhere who are excited about a church plant in this city. These messages of encouragement and support build my faith for the future. Part of my gratefulness is due to the hope that perhaps some of those interested may join the church plant team, throwing themselves into the labor of launching a new church. But I'm also grateful because I believe this excitement will become prayers of support on our behalf.
A church is only built by the strength of the Lord. As the psalmist wrote, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." All of our efforts in research, outreach, planning, administrating, and serving will ALL be in vain, unless the Lord makes them effective by the power of his Spirit. My hope is that anyone who hears of this church plant, both those interested in going and those excited from a distance, will begin to pray for us. Without prayer messages will be prepared but will not be effective. Without prayer neighbors will be greeted but will not be converted to faith. Without prayer jobs will not be found, houses will not be sold, team unity will not last, our church will not be built. With prayer, our God, who works in us to will and to work for his good pleasure, will continue to build his church for his glory.
