The elders met on Tuesday, February 13. Pat opened in prayer giving thanks for the abundance of God’s goodness towards us both in creation and in our salvation in Christ Jesus.

Each month we are both instructed and encouraged in reading a chapter of the London Baptist Confession of 1689. This month Dave Guthrie led us in reading Chapter 13: Sanctification.

Knowing the security of our relationship with God, our justification and our being united with Christ gives great hope in the battle against sin and in the pursuit of holiness. We are so thankful that we have been given everything we need for living a godly life through God’s Word and Spirit.

Financials

In November we asked for prayer because of a shortfall in the budget, and by December we had nearly broke even.

January’s giving was up significantly at $144,380.15 with expenses of $52,136.86, leaving our financials in a much healthier position. We give thanks to God for stirring hearts to make up what was lacking and much more.

Membership

The elders were pleased to approve Walter and Lareeni Wood for membership.

Be praying that as the body works together in the ministry of the gospel there would be growth in both an increase in those trusting in the good news of Christ Jesus and in the maturity of those in the body.

Missions

Ian Pille asked for both prayer and financial support for a missions trip to Guatemala in late May through early June where he would come alongside the ministry of a local church there. Planned ministry opportunities include street evangelism, ministering to young adults and serving in a new church plant.

The elders agreed to support Ian both prayerfully and financially. It will be exciting to see what God does both in and through Ian and others on the trip. Please be praying that there will be a clear proclamation of the gospel.

Chris Peterson then gave an update on Kwacha Simwaka, whom OBC is supporting in Africa. Kwacha’s original plan was to train local pastors and serve in a church plant in Malawi, but an opportunity has been presented to serve alongside Dave Beakley at Christ Baptist Church and Christ Seminary in Polokwane, South Africa.

Dave serves as the Director of The Master’s Academy International (TMAI) and Shepherd of all Grace Ministries International (GMI) missionaries in Africa. Dave has a proven record in training indigenous church leaders and will be a strong mentor for Kwacha.

Kwacha asked for prayer for he and his wife Amanda, that they would be able to acquire a South African visa swiftly; be helpful and encouraging to the team in Polokwane; continue to grow in their love for the Word; and gain wisdom in raising their kids in a godly way.