Greetings From the New National Encourager Coach ~ Mary Owen

I look forward to serving with John Eklund as the new National Encourager Coach.  I want to thank Paula Kirchner for all the encouraging words she's given to me and the thousands of others in Celebrate Recovery.  Just like a Sponsor in CR, Paula set the pace in her role as the National Encourager Coach.  So I've got some big shoes to fill now, but with God's help, I'm up for the challenge. Thanks, again, Paula!

"I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns." Philip. 1:6

I want to start off with a verse like this because I know sometimes the Enemy does his best to overwhelm us especially while serving in Kingdom work.  And maybe even whisper to us we're not good enough or up for the challenge God has set before us.  To that I say, "NOT TRUE!"  Even when we think we don't measure up at times, God says in this verse, "You are a work in progress."  Or "I haven't finished my work in you yet." 

So on the days when we're not feeling the "Get To" spirit, we have to operate on what we BELIEVE and that is God is either coming back or He's coming through!  If He comes back, His work will be completed.  But if He's coming through, it is to help us while we're still on this earth.  And that means He's continuing to work in us as we become more like His son, our older brother Jesus Christ!

The first chapter of Colossians says we are without blemish, free from accusation, holy in God's sight, and presented perfect to our Father.  All of this is present tense meaning that even though God is working in us, at the same time, He views us as His perfect children. 

So when you feel a little overwhelmed, call your sponsor or accountability partner.  Share how you're feeling , then dust yourself off, and get going again encouraging those God places in your path.

We are such a blessed people GETTING TO be a part of seeing changed lives through Celebrate Recovery! 

Mary