As a growing church, we have folks from all different backgrounds attend. Our desire is to help them draw closer to the Lord and, hopefully, help them make a commitment to Him. We preach the word and let them deal with it. I fully believe that God's word will not return void and will accomplish that which it is intended to do.
Than being said, in the next 3 weeks, I will have the privilege of marrying 3 young couples who are currently living together and also had the privilege of baptizing 2 of the couples. Some may disagree with the patience we use when dealing with these good folks, but I trust the Lord and He has proven that He will do the work if we simply preach the truth and love the "devil" out of them, so to speak. Folks don't always respond as quickly as WE want them to, but the life miracles I have seen in the past few years shame me when I think of my lack of trust in God's word and my impatience with some folks.
EG: An X rated book store located across the street from NLC wanted to expand. We objected and were in the paper for not being tolerant etc. The paper even editorialized against NLC and told folks not to attend! No kidding! I made a visit to the editor on that one. The store expanded and we did nothing further to oppose them. Just didn't feel it was right at the time.
Fast foward: The daughter of the store owners started attending our Youth group and was afraid for anyone to know who she was. We loved her unconditionally and she gave her life to the Lord! After about a year or so, her Mother attended on a Sunday morning, yes, the store owner, and when I saw her, I hugged her and told her that I was glad to see her. After some time, I baptized her and 2 weeks ago, she was one of the ones who received the HG at Bible Study!!! To see this woman with her hands in the air and tears down her cheeks week after week simply "melts" me! She left the store some time ago due to her husband having an affair etc. The store has moved down the street because it can't afford the rent....and will soon close. (I'm confident)
All of this because we were patient and loved people unconditionally. I believe this is an atmosphere when God can do what He desires in lives...we just have to allow Him to do it!!!
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