I have begun 2 messages and rolled a number of them around in my head. There is nothing I feel that I can say that would be from God today and be helpful to you.

So feel free to stop reading right here.

I would like to share a story with you.

Many years ago there was an incident that changed my life.

A man entered my life with a message. "Lee, your wife has filed for divorce". I remember the pain of that day and the confusion and heartbreak. I spent the next 3 1/2 years trying to put it back together. I had found the Lord, (rather He found me) and I tasted His persecution instantly. I became a Christian and I was out on the street the next morning. I never could fix it.

I was separated from someone I loved.

My first marriage had come apart because of me. I was a drug addict and an alcoholic. I stopped and the result was not a pretty sight. She left me and never talked to me for over a year, while the divorce became final. Separated, removed from the "love" that I wanted, desired.

I know my marriage disasters were my fault. My second marriage, my daughter was in the hospital for a year, and I worked from 7am-9pm, 7 days a week to pay the bills.

Separated from the one you love. Jesus was and often still is separated from the ones He loves.

If you are thinking about divorce-DON'T! My children would tell you it is a curse.

If you are thinking about suicide-DON'T!

If you are thinking about Jesus and leaving Him-DON'T!

Have we separated ourselves from the Jesus we say we desire and love? You must ask yourself that. Will the actions you take separate you from your source of help?

If you are struggling, first ask yourself-have I put Jesus first? Or have I put something else before Him. I know it says His burden is light and His yoke is easy.

I felt led to this scripture on Sunday night. Maybe its for you.

Ephesians 3:13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

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I have been trying to get a new building. I feel like I have seen every building there is in Springfield, and every door closes. Yesterday, I met with the state on a building that would be ideal for us and yet, because of the law there was fire code improvements that must be made. Last night I came home to a call that the owner would rent me the building, but I had to agree to another $200 per month for the space below(so that they would not need to make the repairs) and it would give us more space as well.

This building has a kitchen and space and offices!!! So may I ask you to pray.

I am not sure where I am at with things. We need a building. For us the big stretch is finances for the type of church we are and who we minister to. It is smack in the heart of Springfield. I am willing to give up the $200 from salary to do this simply to bring this together. I truly want to hear from the Lord.