Engage Your Community

As we prepare to walk through a very difficult time in our nation’s history, we must apply our efforts wisely. One of the most important areas you can engage in is your local community. Strong local communities will become a firewall which will stand strong when challenging times come.  Building a network of leaders from our local “sons of Issachar” will be essential in managing the difficult times ahead.

It will not be easy.  Established local politicians, even in smaller communities, can be reluctant to embrace the possibility that our challenges as a nation are just beginning, and that those challenges will have a profound impact on them. Yet in every community, there are those who understand the times and can become advocates for you as you seek to educate, organize and prepare.

The process begins as you draw upon the relationships you have in your community. The people in your network of friends, family and business acquaintances will help get the word out if asked.  God has put them in your life for a reason.  This may be one.

My family located to our community over two and a half years ago.  During that time, God has connected me with some key people.  I have had to invest time in building these relationships. That investment is beginning to bear fruit as He opens doors to a wider audience.

Outside of your friends, family and church, here are a few key people I would recommend getting to know:

1) Your local newspaper editor. One of the first relationships I began to develop when I moved here was with the local newspaper editor. He has been an advocate for what we need to accomplish here.  I now have an occasional column that runs in the paper.  This is helping the community understand better where I am coming from, and my heart for connecting our problems to biblical solutions.

2) Other church leaders.  This is happening through bible studies and by being more active in community events sponsored by other churches.  By simply showing up and being a part of something organized by others in the community, you signal your willingness to be a part of a team. Don’t just do it to be seen.  Actively help where you can. Hypocrisy and ulterior motives will be spotted from a mile away.  Remember, your desire is to impact the community – first for Christ!

3) Veterans.  Some of the most dedicated people in your community will be the veterans who reside there.  They love their country and are more likely to understand the reality of the problems we face.  They are some of your best leaders and followers.  Engage them.  Get involved with your local VFW post.  Begin a dialogue.  You’ll find that they want to help. Give them a way to serve their country again!

Out of these groups (and others), a core of like minded people will emerge.  They will be the foundation that God can use to strengthen your community!