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PETER Helgerson
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A NEW COMMANDMENT this country , we have the
IN opportunity to visit with and fellowship with many CMA chapters . These cell groups of believers come from all different environments and walks of life . Most ride motorcycles of various makes and models . Some in the chapter cannot ride on two wheels and have been blessed to travel on a threewheel machine . Still others , for various reasons , travel to and from events in a car or truck . But one thing that remains constant with CMA members is that we are called to minister to the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ . In chapters , this time of year , we are blessed to have members who have accepted the call of a leadership position for the coming year . Some chapters continue to grow in membership numbers and their impact on the Kingdom of God . We see other chapters that are struggling to continue . There are many reasons for the differences between these two types of chapters . However , we can detect some familiar conditions that I believe scripture can help us with . In 1 Peter 5:1-5 ( NLT ), we read this about the elders or leadership .
“ And now , a word to you who are elders in the churches [ chapters ]. I , too , am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ . And I , too , will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world . As a fellow elder , I appeal to you : Care for the flock that God
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has entrusted to you . Watch over it willingly , not grudgingly – not for what you will get out of it , but because you are eager to serve God . Don ’ t lord it over the people assigned to your care , but lead them by your own good example . And when the Great Shepherd appears , you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor . In the same way , you who are younger [ members ] must accept the authority of the elders . And all of you , dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another for , God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble .”
Those of us who have served in chapter , state , or national leadership , know there are often issues that need our attention . We need to be reminded of this :
“ We can rejoice , too , when we run into problems and trials , for we know that they help us develop endurance . And endurance develops strength of character , and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation . And this hope will not lead to disappointment . For we know how dearly God loves us , because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love ” ( Romans 5:3- 5 , NLT ).
Chapter leadership , if we remain in the Word and seek His leading for the chapter , I know Jesus will bless all that you put your hands to . “ Let your roots grow down into him , and let your lives be built on him . Then your
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faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught , and you will overflow with thankfulness ” ( Colossians 2:7 , NLT ). As the chapter goes out to do the Great Commission with faith that is growing stronger day by day and leadership who is leading with humility , they will truly become a beacon of hope and light in a dark world . Remember these words , “ A new commandment I give to you , that you love one another ; as I have loved you , that you also love one another . By this all will know that you are My disciples , if you have love for one another ” ( John 13:34-35 , NKJV ). CMA
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