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June, 2004 Here's My Heart... It happens every year about this time. Every staff member, teacher, and church leader struggles with it. We try this, and we try that, but it returns each year. No, it's not "dandelions in the lawn"; it's the dreaded "SUMMER SLUMP"! So, I have a question. Why don't we do something "radical, "revolutionary" this year? Why don't we turn our "SUMMER SLUMP" into a "SUMMER HUMP"? Are you willing to give it a try? If so, here are some simple suggestions: Have it predetermined, "When I am at home this summer, I WILL be in Bible Study and Worship. I will not spend my Sundays on the lake, in the yard, in the mountains, sleeping late, or staying at home with out-of-town guests." Understand that only Satan wins when we turn our summers over to him. Sure you need to go on that vacation; everybody needs it. But, here is a thought: set you own personal attendance goal for the summer... then exceed it! Make you commitment to God a priority this summer. You might call it a "Higher Accountability"! Don't be afraid to tell Him, "I won't be at my church EVERY Sunday this summer, but You can count on me to be there EVERY opportunity I have. I won't miss church this summer every time 'something better' comes along." Plant your heart in faithfulness this summer, then watch it grow! We have some exciting things planned for the next few weeks, and if you miss, well, you are going to miss something important, something exciting. Decide to be faithful. Well, there you have it. I am convinced we can turn a "SUMMER SLUMP" into a "SUMMER HUMP" if we want to, if our hearts are committed, our priorities are in order, and if we see our attendance in Bible Study and Worship as important. God bless you. I will see you this summer... all summer long! Jim Clayton, |