Live From Revival In The Bible Belt: Night 4

We started the day by calling my Father and Mother-In-Love to wish them both a Happy Birthday. “Your voice sounds like it’s holding up,” Dad said. We chuckled a bit before I left when I told him that I was going to the Bible Belt to preach a 5 night revival. “Oh, man. You’re going to be tired,” He said before giving me some tips on how to take care of my voice and body.

I’ve been doing it. Drinking hot tea, getting the wet clothes off of me immediately after preaching, and resting for much of the day. Even the Pastor down here gave me some tips on how to pace myself. I’ve been following their wise advice (most of it) and strangely enough, I feel fine. In fact, I feel energized and I don’t think it’s just from the tea and resting.

I get a boost when it’s time to preach. On a night when I thought I’d be beat, God did it again. Just when I thought it was over (smile), God gave a fresh wind. I’ve found my purpose in life and it’s hard not to get pumped up when it’s time to walk in that purpose. Tonight went okay, but of course there is always room for improvement. I’ll try to do better Friday night.

Even prior to worship though, I was encouraged by the gathering in the Pastor’s office. One thing that I’ve noticed down here that doesn’t seem to happen as much “up north” is that pastors/preachers/people openly wrestle with scripture – unafraid to say “here is where I stand” and others will jump in to agree or will boldly disagree – not in a spirit of malice or contempt, but in an earnest desire to seek the Truth. Such an exchange happened tonight and I was blessed by it. I almost didn’t want to leave to go into the sanctuary! Only in seminary have I experienced that type of regular wrestling with the Holy Writ.

Well, I came down here on a campaign – a mission for the Lord and tomorrow my assignment will be complete. I thank you all for your prayers and solicit them once more for Friday night.

Live from the Bible Belt, I’m a preacher who is thankful for new relationships forged this week.

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