By Pastor Barron Greenwalt

At En-Joy Ministries, we believe that a clear understanding of God’s Word is foundational to a vibrant, bold faith. As I often say, “People are obedient to what they understand; when you see an obedience issue, there is a misunderstanding of God’s Word.” Clarity in Scripture dispels the confusion the enemy sows (1 Corinthians 14:33), providing boldness, certainty, and a strengthened faith. Yet even the strongest believers face moments of doubt. In Mark 9:24, a father cries out, “I believe; help my unbelief!” Even the Apostle Paul prayed for boldness (Ephesians 6:19-20). Doubt is human, but God calls us to grow in faith through intentional steps, rooted in relationships and mentorship, as exemplified by Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2:4-12 and 3:11-12.

The Power of Relationships

God designed us for relationships, which are a primary source of significance and purpose. I believe God intends for us to derive fulfillment from three key areas:

1. Our Relationship with Him: This is the cornerstone of our faith. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). A deep, personal relationship with Christ anchors us in His truth and empowers us to live boldly.
2. Our Relationships with Family and the Body of Christ: God blesses us through our families—spouses, parents, children—and the broader family of believers. The fellowship (koinonia) we share through the Holy Spirit fosters unity and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). As Psalm 68:6 declares, “God sets the lonely in families.”
3. Our Work and Service: God gives us labor to do, whether in ministry, our careers, or serving others. Through this, we derive a sense of worth and purpose (Colossians 3:23-24). Our work becomes a testimony when done with excellence, reflecting Christ to those around us.

These three elements are like legs on a three-legged stool. Remove one, and the balance is lost, placing undue pressure on the others. In our society, many lack a relationship with God or fulfillment in their work, leaning entirely on family for significance. This imbalance often leads to brokenness, as no single relationship can bear that weight. God’s design is for all three to work together, grounding us in His purpose.

The Biblical Model of Mentorship

The story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2:4-12 and 3:11-12 offers a powerful model for mentorship and discipleship. Elisha’s steadfast loyalty to Elijah mirrors Ruth’s commitment to Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17). Despite being told to stay behind, Elisha remained by Elijah’s side, seeking the spiritual inheritance God intended—a double portion of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings 2:9). His faithfulness and humility as Elijah’s servant (2 Kings 3:11) positioned him to receive God’s anointing.

Mentorship is a two-way street. As mentees, we must remain teachable, seeking wisdom from those God places over us. As mentors, we recognize that the anointing we pass on comes from God, not ourselves. This relational dynamic is vital for discipleship. As I’ve emphasized, “You can’t have discipleship without a close relationship.” Surrounding ourselves with wise, godly mentors—rather than those who feed confirmation bias—guards us against being led astray (Proverbs 15:22).

The Role of Elders in the Church

This brings me to the biblical model of church leadership, centered on elders and deacons. Acts 20:28 describes elders as overseers appointed by the Holy Spirit, tasked with shepherding the church through teaching, prayer, and example (Ephesians 4:11-12; James 5:14). Deacons serve practical needs, as seen in Acts 6:2-4, ensuring elders can focus on spiritual leadership. This relational framework, exemplified in Acts 15:6-29, fosters unity and maturity in the church, countering the corporate drift toward boards and CEOs that often prioritizes pragmatism over God’s design.

I’ve shared this message with church leaders, but it’s often met with resistance. Yet, the discipleship crisis in many churches stems from abandoning this model. Elders mentor and equip believers, fostering the trust and relationships needed for spiritual growth. Without this, we risk losing the intimacy and accountability God intended for His church.

The Walk of Faith: Perseverance and Boldness

The walk of faith is a journey of perseverance. Like the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8, we must continue to pray and seek God’s answers, even when they don’t come immediately. Faith doesn’t quit; it presses forward, grounded in a close relationship with Christ. We’re not called to shrink back in fear or anxiety but to be “strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9), calm in the storm, and committed warriors for Christ.

The difference between casual believers and die-hard followers often lies in an encounter with the resurrected Lord. In Luke 24:45, Jesus “opened [the disciples’] minds so they could understand the Scriptures,” transforming them into bold witnesses willing to suffer and die for Him. Paul’s Damascus Road experience (Acts 9:3-6) similarly changed him from a persecutor to a devoted apostle. As I’ve shared, “I’ve never grown in a comfort zone.” Growth comes through adversity, surrendering to God’s call, and relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18).

A Call to Encounter Christ

Men and women of En-Joy Ministries, do you long for an encounter with the resurrected Lord? The kind that transformed Paul and the disciples, building unshakable faith and courage? This encounter doesn’t just save us—it sells us out for Christ, equipping us to lead our families, stand firm against the enemy, and live boldly for God’s glory.

If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, or if you’re a believer seeking a deeper walk, I invite you to take a step today. Surrender to Christ, seek His truth relentlessly, and let Him open your mind to His Word. The enemy is after our families and communities, but through Christ, we have victory (1 Corinthians 15:57). Step forward and let this be the moment you commit to a bold, transformative faith.

Recap: Key Points for Building Bold Faith

1. Clarity in Scripture: Understanding God’s Word dispels confusion, builds faith, and fosters obedience (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
2. Relationships Are Key: Derive purpose from your relationship with God, family, and work, maintaining balance in all three (Matthew 22:37-39).
3. Biblical Mentorship: Follow the example of Elijah and Elisha, seeking and offering mentorship to grow in faith (2 Kings 2:9-10).
4. Embrace the Biblical Model: Elders and deacons provide relational leadership that fosters discipleship (Acts 20:28).
5. Persevere in Faith: Like the persistent widow, keep praying and seeking God’s truth, trusting in His timing (Luke 18:1-8).
6. Seek an Encounter with Christ: A personal encounter with the resurrected Lord transforms casual believers into committed followers (Luke 24:45).

Let’s commit to walking boldly in faith, grounded in God’s Word, strengthened by relationships, and transformed by Christ’s power. Together, we can be a light in our families, church, and community, standing firm against the enemy’s schemes and living for God’s glory.

Pastor Barron Greenwalt
En-Joy Ministries

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