In the fall of 2022, Pastor Nick von Stein gave a series of messages called “Deep Roots Long Branches” in which he discussed the importance of having deep spiritual roots from which long branches will grow. Now at the beginning of the year 2023, he presented the message series “Find Your Opportunity”.
It is one thing to discuss and think about finding our opportunity to grow long branches to share the fruit that grows from the Spirit. But how do we identify our branches? Am I supposed to go to Africa to preach the gospel or help with sharing the good news with children or become a foster/adoptive parent or care for the homeless? Or what?
Have you ever wondered about the soil your spiritual “tree” is planted in? That soil is you, all you have learned and done up until now. The soil you have become is unique to you and your life experiences. It is uniquely prepared for deep roots and long branches. It has been prepared by God, even before you were born.
“For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb."Psalm 139:13 (But read all of Psalm 139)
How do we identify our specific branches? How has God prepared you? How has your unique life experience created an opportunity for the Lord to use You?
Sometimes it can be hard to figure out what to do when we grow in our Christian walk, but God has something special for each one of us to do as we mature in our faith. Our Lord has been preparing our life’s path for us since our birth. He has laid out for us what He is calling us to do.
The results of this self-assessment can be a way to help us figure out what God is calling us to – so we can live out our special "call" from God to impact lives for Him and extend long branches of mercy into the world.
This assessment is divided into 4 sections, each centered on you.
-> Your hobbies and things you like to do for fun
-> Your work experiences
-> Your life experiences
-> Your spiritual life
Your hobbies and things you like to do for fun