In a world of instantaneous communication and calendar-driven schedules, it takes desire and purpose to choose a time that's set apart just to get together with someone. Our days get so busy with work, children, spouses, housework, grocery shopping, homework—if we don't schedule something, it often doesn't get done. What makes us think time with God will be any different? If we don't intentionally set aside time that is just for meeting with Him, it likely won't happen. Put it in your phone as an appointment if you have to, then prioritize that time as of the utmost importance.

Much like it's hard to feel connected to a person across the table who's looking at their phone instead of you, it's difficult to connect with God when you're distracted. Focusing takes work. We have to choose to still our minds from everything that wants to steal our attention. Remember, our goal is to be face-to-face with God. That means our focus has to be Him, not our situations or even ourselves. Worship is a great way to do this. The point of worship is to exalt the Lord, to make him bigger in our eyes. And the natural side effect of making God bigger is that everything else gets smaller. Then it's much easier to focus on Him.

With intentionality and focus, it's relatively easy to have an encounter with God. He's already promised that when we draw near to Him, He's going to respond (James 4:8). But if you're like me, one encounter isn't enough. I need more than a one-time experience with God. Like the old hymn says, "every hour" I need Him. Like anything else we want to be a regular part of our lives, we have to be persistent in making it happen. We have to stay intentional, stay focused.

This word makes some people cringe, but it's important. Real communication takes patience. It takes patience with your own efforts, and that patience sometimes seems so lacking as you learn or re-learn how to connect with God. It also requires learning that God isn't interested in just hearing our problems and then watching us go on our way; communication is more than words. It's both speaking and listening, thinking about what's been said and simply enjoying each other's company.

God has promised, "When you seek Me, you will find Me." Seeking is an action word; active engagement with God doesn't happen on its own. But when we apply the keys of intentionality, focus, persistence and patience, we discover a nearness that satisfies us like distance never will.

On a regular basis, we set aside a dedicated time and space for our church body to come together and have an encounter with the Lord and with one another. Each Encounter is a little different, but we pray, we praise God, we hear stories, and we practice the gifts of the Spirit.

Worship is the fuel for discipleship. We are called to eat, drink, speak, think and work to the glory of God. We worship God by remembering the gospel through preaching, teaching, singing, praying and celebrating baptism and communion.

Community is the context for discipleship. The Christian faith is not intended to be lived in isolation; we were made for relationship with God and for relationship with each other. We belong not merely to a local church, but to a people.

Service is the overflow of discipleship. It seeks to extend God’s grace and mercy to others for His glory and not our own. We serve as an expression of love and stewardship of grace, marked by humility, generosity and hospitality.

Multiplication is the result of discipleship. We become better disciples through love for God and love for others by equipping and empowering others to do the same. We multiply the kingdom by living with the purpose to make God known and enjoyed.