By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer<\/p>\n
DRY PRONG, La. (LBM) Chris Smeltzer assumed he was a follower of Jesus because of the many years he attended worship services with his family.<\/p>\n
But, recently, Smeltzer realized growing up in a Christ-centered home would not get him into Heaven. He not only accepted the Lord after a conversation with Pastor Trey Lewis, but chose to celebrate his freedom in Jesus through baptism Independence Day weekend.<\/p>\n
I truly believe that it is God and his Son Jesus Christ who have given me the strength and will to be a better version of myself, Smeltzer told the Baptist Message. He gave me courage to talk with Pastor Trey about becoming a member Prospect Baptist church and to stand up for everyone to see how Jesus has filled my heart.<\/p>\n
I look back now and realize something had been missing in my life, like a void of sorts that has now been filled, he continued. Im proud to be a part of a new family at Prospect Baptist Church and Im so glad that I asked Jesus to come into my heart and life. Its the best decision Ive ever made.<\/p>\n
Smeltzers baptism, July 5, was the first for New Prospect Baptist, which averages 90 in worship, since they resumed services June 7 after state COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings forced them to meet online for the last three months. Three more individuals have indicated a desire to be baptized as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
Lewis said while COVID-19 has posed challenges in sharing Christs love with the community, the Holy Spirit has continued presenting opportunities to present the Gospel. He referenced a recent conversation with a homeowner named Belinda who needed help with placement of a trap on her damaged roof as a storm approached. Moments later, Lewis asked her about the spiritual condition of her life, and she subsequently professed her faith in the Lord.<\/p>\n
She prayed the sinners prayer in her yard, Lewis said. People are still responding to the Gospel.<\/p>\n
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Dry Prong is spiritually abundant - The Baptist Message<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer DRY PRONG, La. Continue reading