Service Introduction
Pastor introduces guest speakers Pastor Palo and wife from "Equipping for Life, Married for Life" ministries, formerly of Restoration Church (previously North Providence Assembly).
Wife shares briefly on family spirit in the church and reads from Hosea about God's righteous ways versus rebellion, urging attendees to give God a chance for blessings.
Speaker (Pastor Palo) shares personal transition from pastoring (last service Dec 29, 2024), emphasizing avoiding "professional faith" at age 56.
Key scripture: Hebrews 11:8—Abraham obeyed by faith, going without knowing destination (cross-references Genesis 12:1).
Highlights: No backstory/mentors for Abraham (age 75, pagan background); prioritize "yes" to God over clarity/prayers/fleeces; faith is promise, trust is process; discouragement disconnects from courage.
Obedience Now: "Leave, go, [God will] show"; promises are "yes" in Christ (2 Cor 1:20); avoid delaying like Israel's 40 years.
Trust Over Clarity: Stories of son stepping into water, Appalachian Trail supplies, Amish time ("three sunsets"); God as "very present help" (Ps 46).
Combating Discouragement: Praise/thanksgiving list; dream shifting from complaining to gratitude; enemy uses it like quicksand.
Song: "I Give Myself Away" with lyrics emphasizing surrender ("My life is not my own... Let your will be done on earth").
Prophetic prayers for individuals (e.g., Shiana for rest/leading; Denzel for mind healing; businesses/relationships to end; Oliver for rejection).
Call to break discouragement, start businesses, obey God fully.
