We embrace God’s design for growth by choosing to: connected. equipped. an equipper. EFCA SOF Article 8 – Christian Living: We believe that God's justifying grace must not be separated from His sanctifying power and purpose. God commands us to love Him supremely and others sacrificially, and to live out our faith with care for one another, compassion toward the poor and justice for the oppressed. With God’s Word, the Spirit’s power, and fervent prayer in Christ’s name, we are to combat the spiritual forces of evil. In obedience to Christ’s commission, we are to make disciples among all people, always bearing witness to the gospel in word and deed. Applying God's Word to Life When has making the right connection given you access to something powerful or life-changing? As you reflect on Ephesians 4, what words, phrases, or ideas are repeated or especially stand out to you? Paul begins by emphasizing “one” and then speaks about “each one.” What does that say about our unity and individuality and how they work together in Christ? How has God used other believers to equip you and help you grow toward maturity in Christ? What opportunities are you currently giving yourself to be connected to people who can help you or you can help them grow? What are some of the things that can knock us around spiritually, and how does growing toward maturity help us stand firm so we are not “tossed” or “blown” about? Who has God placed in your life that you might be able to encourage, strengthen, or help grow as an equipper? Paul says the body grows “as each part does its work.” What do you think your part might be in helping the body of Christ grow in this season of your life? If Christ intends to mature you through His people—and intends to use you for their maturity—how are you intentionally making yourself available for that? What is one step you are committed to take to grow in Him this fall? Announcements Today: “Consider the Lillies in the Gallery of God”: Join Pastor Kelly at the Prairie Garden Farm owned by Doug & Robin Trott (2755 180th St., Starbuck, MN) today at 4pm for a time of pondering the art (a wide variety of flowers and plants) and admiring the artist (God, the creator of the universe). Kelly will gather “art admirers” of all ages to orient us, then free us up to explore the beauty for a time of personal, quiet pondering that leads to taking pictures and journaling. After exploring, we will gather to share reflections & then end in pray. Youth Group Kick-Off: Wednesday, September 2 at 6:40-8:05. Meet at Barsness Park at the shelter near the playground. Rain location-meet at Central Square Gym. For 5th-12th grade students. Adventure Club Kick-Off with Family Night: Wednesday, September 9 at 6:30pm. at the First Baptist Church in Glenwood. See the weekly email for a link to register. For ages 4 years) -6th grade. Adult Bible Study Starting Wednesday, September 30: at Central Square from 6:40-7:50pm. We will be going through the book of Romans. No homework required. Contact Randy & Vickie Anderson (320) 805-0450 or Randy Ihnen for details and to order a $6 study book. Tomorrow is the Last Day to Order a Hope Community Shirt: See the weekly email for a link to order and pay or talk to Vickie (320) 805-0450 if you do not receive the weekly email. Baby Shower for Hannah Olson: Join us as we celebrate and support the Olsons becoming parents! Saturday, September 12 at 9:30a.m. at the Starbuck Church. She is registered at Target and Amazon. “Connections: Women Connecting with Women”: will meet for coffee on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10:00 am at Gather, next one is September 2. Operation Christmas Child: check out the welcome table for information about packing a box for a child in need. **Children’s Church Starts September 13 ** Sermon Based Small Group Starbuck: Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. at the Starbuck site. Attend when you are able.