Solomon the wise wrote the following scripture in the fourth chapter twelfth verse of the book of Ecclesiastes: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” As we have grown together as a church, we have learned that not only is this scripture true, it is foundational for us at Jesus First. History shows that when the church focuses totally on the word we can become harsh, strict and even very judgmental. When we focus most of our efforts on worship, we can become thin in areas like reading and understanding the Word of God. And if we spend all of our time in prayer, we can begin to feel like everything that happens begins and ends with our prayers.

God has given us a solid foundation which consists of a balance between three scriptural elements. The foundation He has established is based on a balance of prayer, worship and word. It may seem odd for a worship leader not to spend all of their time in worship or for the prayer ministry leaders not to spend all of their time in prayer. But the fact of the matter is that God has a foundation for each of us that is not easily broken.

When the core ministries of the church operate independent of each other there tends to be a subtle competition. This is a trap that can ultimately divide the congregation. It’s been happening since the first century church. “Are you coming to prayer tonight? Oh no, I am on the worship team.” And so on. God has directed however, that the ministries and members of Jesus First are to build our lives, ministries, work and relationships on the foundation of prayer, worship and word. And we do this together. We call this intra-ministry synergy.

This scriptural foundation helps keep us well rounded in the things of the spirit, power of His word and presence of His Lordship. Our foundation is three stranded and as Solomon said, it is not easily broken. So as you get on board with Jesus First, be looking for opportunities to include yourself in our journaling classes, prayer meetings and worship times. Look for opportunities to serve your church in a Christ focused and centered manner. It will bring healing to your bones. It will strengthen your life as a Christian and clarify the focus in your heart to better understanding the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
Remember, Jesus Christ must first do His work in us so that He can do His work through us.