Many lives have been changed, encouraged, and grown as a result of getting in a small group. Here’s just one example of the work that God can do in an individual's life when a group of people meet together in his name.
Jonathan’s Story
“I had gone through an extremely rough time in my life with several broken relationships and two failed marriages. I knew I needed something more, yet felt lost and hopeless. I had heard about Saddleback’s online campus worship services, so I decided to check it out since I live all the way in British Columbia. I went onto the chat room after the service and met a small group host who invited me to join his small group. I was hesitant at first, but thought, ‘What do I have to lose?’ The host set up a time for us to meet and in that first meeting, I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior.
Since that moment, my life hasn’t been the same – my relationships are stronger, I spend more time with my kids, and my Saddleback small group has been with me every step of the way. My life has completely turned around and I couldn’t have done it without the individuals in my group!”
Not in a small group for Decade of Destiny yet? It’s not too late to host or join a group! Here’s how:
1 Visit the Small Group Life table on the patio after one of our services this weekend.
2 Sign up online at www.saddleback.com.
3 Call the Small Group Life Team at (949) 609-8701 for guidance.
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So why pray and fast to kick off Decade of Destiny? Pastor Buddy says because the Bible tells us that we should never try to finish in the flesh what was born in the spirit. We can't do it on our own strength and wisdom. Instead, we should seek God's direction and blessings. And fasting can supercharge prayer.
PRAYER
If you've been called to a ministry, you are also called to pray for that ministry. The good news is that it's not hard. You can sign up to pray during one of the 15-minute time slots within the 24-hour kick-off period. Click here to do so. You can pray from home, in the car, at work or wherever you like. The idea is to have as many people as possible praying for this event, and to keep the prayers going for 24 hours. If you don't know what to say in your prayers, click here for a list of ideas to get you started.
FASTING
When fasting, the focus is not on food; rather it is on seeking God. Think of it as having a meal with a friend. Instead of spending time on food preparation, open the Word of God and let Him talk to you. Fasting will be different for different people. One person may fast for three days while another may simply plan to skip lunch.
Throughout the Bible there are examples of fasting launching major events: Moses fasted for 40 days before receiving the 10 commandments, Jesus fasted before choosing the apostles and starting to preach, the church in Antioch fasted before appointing elders in the new Galatian churches. Fasting is an important part of the history of the church and it can play a part in your spiritual growth as well.
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Come to one of Pastor Rick's Decade of Destiny Vision Rallies this week with your small group.
WHEN: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Or Saturday, from 9:00 to
10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Lake Forest Campus in the main Worship Center
Learn how to make your next 10 years the best
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Join Pastor Rick for a sneak peek into what is coming this Fall and beyond for small groups. You'll get an insider's look on what to expect as you lead your group through this inspirational church-wide experience.
Friday, October 8
7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Worship Center in Lake Forest
The cost is FREE!
Register online or contact us at (949) 609-8701
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