On March 12, 2025, a group of believers gathered in the cozy meeting room of a local café in St. Cloud, Minnesota. This was no ordinary evening—it was the monthly meeting of the St. Cloud Christian Book Club, where faith and fellowship intertwined. The group, led by Ashley, a dedicated and passionate woman of God, had chosen a book by Joel Osteen for their discussion: Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential.

As the members settled into their seats, sipping on warm cups of coffee and tea, Ashley opened the meeting with a heartfelt prayer, asking God to bless their discussion and guide their hearts in wisdom. St. Cloud, known for its vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, provided a fitting backdrop for this gathering. Just as the city thrived on creativity and collaboration, so did the members of this book club, eager to deepen their faith and support one another.

Ashley began by summarizing the book’s core message: trusting in God’s plan, embracing positivity, and stepping into the blessings He has prepared. The discussion quickly turned personal, as members shared how faith had helped them overcome struggles. One member, Jennifer, spoke of her past battle with addiction and how finding Christ had given her freedom. Like the youth in their town who had been bound by destructive habits, she had found healing through Christ’s love and the support of a Christian community. She likened her transformation to the renewal of Munsinger Gardens, one of St. Cloud’s most beloved attractions, where careful tending brought forth vibrant life from the soil.

The conversation then shifted toward the importance of responsibility and character. Ashley pointed out that Joel Osteen’s book emphasized moral restraint and self-control—values that resonated deeply with the group. They discussed how making responsible decisions, much like entrepreneurs do in their businesses, was essential for spiritual and personal growth. They reflected on how individuals in their church had rebuilt their lives, much like how businesses in St. Cloud thrived with support from organizations like the St. Cloud State University Business Development Center. Just as the local chamber of commerce helped businesses succeed, their church community played a crucial role in guiding them toward spiritual success.

The Power of Love and Service

The discussion then shifted to the topic of servanthood. Ashley read from Your Best Life Now, emphasizing that ministry should be about serving others rather than seeking personal gain. The group reflected on how Jesus demonstrated ultimate servanthood, and they discussed how they could apply this principle in their daily lives. A retired schoolteacher, Mark, shared how he had started mentoring young entrepreneurs in St. Cloud, combining business knowledge with faith-based encouragement. Just as the city fostered innovation and growth, he wanted to foster hope and wisdom in the next generation.

Ashley then guided the conversation toward love—the agape love that Jesus taught. She read from Matthew 5:44: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” This sparked a deep discussion on what it meant to truly love others unconditionally. Another member, Sarah, shared how she had struggled with forgiveness but found peace when she chose to love as Christ did. She compared this love to the beauty of Munsinger Gardens, explaining that love, like a garden, required constant care and patience.

As the meeting neared its end, Ashley brought up an important point from Joel Osteen’s book—preparing for Christ’s return. She reminded the group that believers should always be aware of the times, staying vigilant and ready for the Lord’s coming. She quoted 1 Thessalonians 5:4-5: “But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day.” This sparked a lively conversation about biblical prophecy and the hope believers have in Christ.

To close the evening, Ashley encouraged the group to apply what they had discussed. She challenged them to find ways to serve their community, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing Christ’s love with those around them. They ended the night with a prayer, thanking God for His wisdom and asking for strength to live out their faith boldly.

As the members stepped out into the cool St. Cloud night, they carried with them renewed faith and determination. The city, with its thriving businesses and growing opportunities, mirrored their own spiritual journeys—filled with challenges, but also with immense potential for growth. They left knowing that through Christ, they could truly live their best lives now.

Written by Harriet

A City of Beauty and Faith
Greetings, dear brothers and sisters in Christ! Sarasota is a city blessed with natural beauty, cultural vibrance, and a strong, faithful community. Whether you are a long-time resident or a visitor exploring our city’s artistic heartbeat, Sarasota is a place where faith and creativity walk hand in hand. From the famed Chalk Festival to the inspiring Sarasota Film Festival, there is no shortage of opportunities to appreciate the beauty of human expression. Yet, beyond these worldly pleasures, we know that our greatest joy and inspiration come from the Lord, who has blessed us abundantly in this city.

This month, we have been witnessing the powerful move of God in our church and throughout Sarasota. Hearts are being stirred, lives are being transformed, and the fire of revival is igniting among us. As we come together to worship, let us be reminded that God is working in ways we may not even see. He is shaping, molding, and leading us just as a skilled producer crafts a masterpiece—pausing at just the right moments, shifting the scenes, and ensuring that His perfect plan unfolds before us.

A Call to Embrace Our Unique Anointing
In our journey of faith, comparison often sneaks in and clouds our vision. But as we have learned, comparison is containing many—it limits us from stepping into the fullness of our calling. Let us not seek to emulate someone else’s gift or anointing but rather embrace the unique purpose God has placed within each of us. Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 13:5 to examine ourselves, to walk in faith, and to recognize the power that is at work within us.

Kym, one of our beloved members, shared a testimony this past Sunday about how God led her to step into unfamiliar territory, much like Abraham when God brought him beneath the night sky and showed him the vastness of His promise. She had always admired the ministry of others, yet it was when she surrendered her desire to imitate and instead sought God’s direct guidance that she found her true calling. Today, she ministers to those who feel unseen, reminding them that God’s love knows no bounds.

The Power of the Holy Spirit in Sarasota
As we step into this new season, the fire of His purification is falling upon us. We are witnessing an outpouring of His Spirit like never before. Just as Jesus came to heal the sick and destroy the works of the enemy, so too is He raising up mighty warriors among us. Some of you have been facing trials—whether in finances, health, or relationships—but take heart, for God is at work! He is turning your trials into testimonies, your struggles into victories.

At our recent worship night, a powerful moment occurred. As we lifted our voices, the presence of God became so tangible that people were falling to their knees in reverence. Some were weeping, others were overcome with joy, and many received healing in ways they never imagined. One woman shared how she had been battling an illness for years, yet during the service, she felt the Lord tell her to stand in faith. The next morning, she went to her doctor, and to her astonishment, she was given a clean bill of health! Truly, nothing is impossible for our God.

A Message for Church Leaders and Pastors
To our dear pastors and church leaders, we encourage you to prepare for what the Spirit of God is doing. The coming days will not look like what we have planned, but we must remain open to His leading. Even those who feel unshakable may be surprised at the level of offense they encounter in this season, yet we must guard our hearts and fix our eyes on Jesus.

One pastor shared that he had been struggling with feelings of inadequacy, questioning if he was truly making a difference. But then, God spoke to him through a simple encounter with a young boy at a grocery store. The child, who attended his Sunday school, ran up to him and said, “Pastor, thank you for teaching me about Jesus. He is my best friend now.” That single moment reminded him that every seed we plant matters.

A Season of Restoration and Worship
We believe that Sarasota is entering a season of divine restoration. Just as we water our gardens and trust that the water will bring growth, so too must we trust that the seeds we have sown in faith will bear fruit. Our chapels, hospitals, and schools will be filled with testimonies of God’s goodness. The blessing is spreading to every branch of our mission, and we look forward to the great work ahead.

As we gather each Sunday, let us embrace prophetic praise—praising God ahead of time for the victories He has already secured. Whether you are facing uncertainty or standing on the mountaintop of breakthrough, know that you are not alone. God is moving, and He is faithful.

Closing Thoughts
Dear friends, let us not grow weary in our faith. Sarasota is more than just a beautiful city; it is a city where God’s presence is tangible, where hearts are being revived, and where the gospel is reaching every corner. As we look ahead, may we remain steadfast, bold in our faith, and unwavering in our commitment to follow where God leads.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His light shine upon Sarasota, today and always.

In Christ’s love,
Harriet