"I dare not tread beyond the teaching of God" -Billy Graham
This thesis addresses the issue of discouragement in the face of uncertainties; preaching personal spiritual growth. This thesis emerged from conversations with members of Olivet Baptist Church who have witnessed a decline in membership, ministries, and the physical deterioration of their historical church. In this thesis, I will examine how fear and loss of hope can overwhelmingly discourage both members of a congregation and a preacher. This thesis offers practical application to members of Olivet Baptist church which encourages, uplifts and motivates those to grow stronger in their faith with God. This thesis also demonstrates how a preacher can experience personal spiritual growth while meeting the spiritual needs of those in the congregation. In other words, the message of encouragement, hope, and faith wasn't exclusively for the congregation but for the preacher as well.
