Inventory Time

“I’m a member of Riverview Baptist Church; I’m saved, baptized and excited about this new chapter in my life.”  That was my thought and yours, no doubt, when we first joined the congregation at Riverview.  But what about now… is the excitement there?  Are we praying for the needs that are shared each week?  Are we supporting our missionaries and outreach both home and abroad, are we exercising our spiritual gifts to build up the body of which we are a part?  Do we encourage our church family with a greeting and a smile and help bear their burdens and at times share our own?

I am reminded that Peter tells us we are to be vigilant because Satan is like that roaring lion and he is seeking to devour us.  (1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour).

This year will bring lots of changes to our lives, it always does.  Babies will be born, children will grow, challenges will be faced, opportunities will arise, others will become shut-in’s and yes, some will go home to be with the Lord having finished their race.  But how will we finish?  It will depend on the decisions we make, and the actions we take. 

Inventory time is often dreaded by businesses, but it helps to give them a clearer picture as to where they are.  Our spiritual inventory can do the same for us in the New Year.  This year I want to pray more, study more, be a better steward of my time, to witness more, (lose weight…you smiled!) and grow even closer to the Lord as I get closer home.  What will your inventory reveal? 

- Pastor Shahn