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November HeartBeat

By JAY Wilber

the last decade, I have written numerous articles on chapter health, but nothing says it better than our CMA Handbook.

“ Chapter Purpose: Chapters are the lifeblood of CMA. They are made up of CMA members uniting for a common purpose of spreading the light of Christ. Chapters realize that their true strength comes in working together. It is through the network of chapters that we are able to work events to build relationships that lead to opportunities to tell people about Christ. If you want to see God in action, being a part of a CMA chapter is a good place to be. Chapters recognize that they are part of something bigger than they are and make an effort to support the overall vision of the ministry. Strong, vibrant chapters are critical if we are going to fulfill the mission God has given us. If our chapters suffer, the ministry suffers.”

Each of us should not only review the Handbook but also watch the forming chapter video,“ The Purpose of a Chapter.”

Strong chapters are doing many of these things, but unhealthy chapters are missing some important aspects. Are we doing the things we need to do?

We claim to be a servant ministry. We need to serve others, and if we aren’ t, then we need to understand that the most effective

way to serve is to be in God’ s will. I found these points that caught my attention, and I think they will help us to see if we are serving in God’ s will.

Alignment with God’ s Will: When actions, plans, and desires align with God’ s Word and commands, service becomes natural and enjoyable.

Seeking God’ s Help: Relying on God’ s grace, strength, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit through prayer and time in His Word helps us overcome challenges.

A Higher Purpose: Serving God is a profound honor and a way to participate in His Kingdom, which can bring deep joy and fulfillment.

“ But be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve him. Think of all the wonderful things he has done for you”( 1 Samuel 12:24, NLT).

In the Bible,“ fear the Lord” refers to a deep, reverent awe and respect for God’ s holiness, power, and authority, leading to humble obedience, worship, and a desire to live in accordance with His will. It is a foundational concept for wisdom, inspiring loyalty to God above all else and motivating a life free from evil and committed to His ways, rather than a debilitating terror or dread.

Do we fear the Lord and faithfully serve Him? If all we do is talk about opportunities and do nothing

, if we only look at opportunities that make us look good or are high profile, are we in God’ s will or serving only ourselves? Serving in CMA is not just a chapter function; it’ s a personal function. We will not be a healthy chapter until each member becomes a healthy member. I also found this in the Handbook that says it best for both the chapter and the individual.

The chapter function should include:

• A strong spiritual foundation.

• An interest in the spiritual needs of the motorcycling community regardless of motorcycle type.

• The support of CMA programs and activities.

• An agreement with the heart and leadership of CMA.

Remember that a healthy chapter is one that: Prays Disciples Evangelizes Fellowships

Do this in Unity“ Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have