If you have been following my blog this week, you know we are on our Annual Staff Advance. After our morning session today, we are returning home. I want to share with you some lessons from this week. I believe you will be encouraged.

Lesson #1: People follow vision. When vision is shared, people follow. As I shared some matters of vision for our team and church, their attitudes have been, “We know our direction, now let’s get it done.” While we may question the “how” of getting there, we embrace the “what” we believe God wants us to do. Whatever you do in your life, family, and business, remember: People follow vision.

Lesson #2: Diversity is healthy. The diversity of our team exists. We have people from all ages on our team to help us lead this ministry. You would be pleased to know just how diverse this team is. At times, we may think having more people just like us is healthy; however, no one is “just like us.” Therefore, accept diversity, embrace diversity. It is healthy. In all areas of your life, learn to accept the various gifts of the Spirit and the diversity of God’s people, in fact, all people.

Lesson #3: Others can help you. We have been reminded this week that others can help us. Dr. Danny Akin helped our church this week. He helped us on Sunday fall in love with the Word of God, the coming of Jesus, and taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. He helped us on this retreat to accept God’s design for us, to learn theology, and to have a greater passion to see the nations won to Christ. Yes, others have helped us. Friends, do not close yourself to others. Others can help you.

Lesson #4: People love the Great Commission. Yesterday morning as I shared with our team about the Great Commission Resurgence of the Southern Baptist Convention, people who did not understand it before began to realize it is all about taking the gospel to the world. Yes, people love the Great Commission of Jesus – regionally, nationally, and globally. Christ-followers, embrace taking the gospel to your world.

Lesson #5: Love is on our team. I can assure you, our team loves one another. While struggles may come, love is greater than those struggles. Be encouraged in your family and in your friendships, love can take place. Love others like Jesus loves you.

Sunday is the Lord’s Supper and Baptism, a celebration of the ordinances of our church. Do not miss being at the table of our Lord. He is inviting you.