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Spurring Growth Together

Spurring Growth Together

At LifeBrook Church, we’re passionate about growth. Not just personal growth, but spiritual growth that happens in community. In a recent message from Pastor Zach, we looked at Hebrews 10:19–25 and discovered something surprising: sometimes, a little fruit starts with a blueberry bush.

Wait… What?

A few years back, while Melody was away on a women’s retreat, Pastor Zach found himself solo-parenting with a jam-packed weekend plan: family movie night, blueberry picking, a dance party, dinner made with fresh-picked berries, and of course, church on Sunday. The big takeaway from the kids? “Dad, we need blueberry bushes!”

So, they planted two. Why two?

Because many blueberry bushes can’t produce fruit on their own. They need a partner to cross-pollinate. Alone, they’ll survive. But together, they thrive.

We’re the Same Way

Hebrews 10 reminds us that our faith wasn’t designed to grow in isolation. In verses 24–25, it says:

“Let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works… encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.”

When believers gather, encourage, and stir one another toward love and good works, something powerful happens. Our faith begins to bear fruit.

This is what LifeGroups at LifeBrook are all about: growing together so that we can thrive in our walk with Jesus.


Why It Matters

In Hebrews 10, the writer lays out three clear instructions for believers, grounded in what Jesus has done for us:

1. Draw Near

Because of Jesus, we have full access to the presence of God. Not with fear, but with confidence and assurance. This isn’t about religious routines. It’s about a real relationship. Not just knowing about God, but knowing Him personally.

2. Hold On

We cling tightly to our hope in Jesus, not swayed by the chaos of life. Like a rock in a rushing stream, God’s truth remains steady even when everything else feels uncertain.

3. Watch Out… For One Another

We weren’t made to go it alone. Spiritual health flourishes in the soil of community. That’s why Hebrews calls us to encourage one another, not isolate. When we gather, we grow.


A Real-Life Reminder

Take Saundra’s story. A single mom, pregnant with her third child, she walked into a LifeGroup not knowing what to expect. It wasn’t made up of people like her. It was a mix of older singles, widows, and married folks attending alone. But what she found changed everything.

She said,

“I used to live a very rough life… I thought I had tons of friends, but I was constantly distracted from what I really needed.”

In this unexpected group, Saundra found real friendship, practical support, and unconditional love. That group became the bridge to the life she didn’t know she needed. One filled with spiritual transformation and purpose. Today, she’s reading Scripture daily, serving in ministry, and thriving in faith.


Don’t Miss What God Has for You

You might be thinking, “That’s great for her, but I’m too busy… too tired… too unsure of where I belong.” We get it. Life is full, and sometimes, it’s hard to know what will actually make life better.

But here’s the truth. LifeGroups aren’t just another thing on your calendar. They are the way God uses to encourage, equip, and grow your faith.

Like that second blueberry bush, community could be the missing ingredient to your next season of fruitfulness.


Take Your Next Step

Whether you’re new to church, returning after a break, or ready to go deeper in your faith, there’s a place for you at LifeBrook.

🗓️ Join a LifeGroup: lifebrook.church/join-a-group
📍 Discover LifeBrook: Sundays, Sept. 14 – Oct. 5 at 9:30 AM
🙌 Serve or Lead: Interested in hosting or leading a group? Let’s talk!

Don’t let your fears or your full calendar keep you from the community God designed you for.

Let’s grow together. Let’s pursue life.

Chris Hester epitomizes the heart and soul of LifeBrook Church, having been ingrained in our community since childhood. With roots tracing back to his parents, who were charter members, Chris’s journey of faith has been woven into the very fabric of our church. For over 30 years, Chris has faithfully served as a Deacon, bringing wisdom and dedication to his role. His commitment to ministry is evident through his involvement in various church initiatives, from leading Bible studies to spearheading committees and organizations. In 2023, he answered the call to serve as an Elder, further deepening his spiritual leadership within our congregation. Outside the church walls, Chris is a seasoned software developer, bringing a wealth of professional expertise to his endeavors. Alongside his beloved wife, Audrey, they find joy and fulfillment in residing in the vibrant Timbergrove neighborhood, where they continue to invest their lives in service to God and community. Chris’s steadfast commitment to both his faith and his community resonates deeply with the values of LifeBrook Church, making him a cherished member and leader among our congregation.

John Norwood is a cherished member of the LifeBrook Church family, having been an integral part of our community since 2005. While he currently serves with distinction as a Lay Elder, John’s journey of service within the church began with six years on staff, where his dedication and leadership left an indelible mark. In addition to his role at LifeBrook, John brings his passion for education to his work as a 9th Grade English teacher at Lamar High School, where he invests in shaping the minds and hearts of young learners. Alongside his beloved wife, Mandy, and their two teenage boys, John finds solace and adventure in exploring the beauty of our National Parks. Their shared love for outdoor experiences fosters cherished family moments and strengthens their bond. John’s academic pursuits have equipped him with a solid foundation for ministry, holding a Master of Divinity degree from George W. Truett Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts from Howard Payne University. With his unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community, John embodies the core values of LifeBrook Church, making him a beloved leader and cherished member of our congregation.

Zach Brackett brings over a decade of dedicated ministry experience to LifeBrook Church. Together with his wife, Melody, they form a dynamic duo deeply rooted in faith and family values. Their journey began during their college years, where Zach and Melody crossed paths during freshman orientation. Their connection was instant, leading to a marriage just a few months after graduation. Now, with three vibrant children filling their home, Zach treasures every moment spent nurturing his role as both husband and father. Zach’s educational background includes a Master’s of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, equipping him with the knowledge and wisdom to lead our congregation with authenticity and insight. Additionally, his Bachelor of Arts in Communication, with a Minor in Leadership, from Christopher Newport University, enhances his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Through his genuine commitment to family and faith, Zach embodies the values of LifeBrook Church, making him a relatable and inspiring leader for our community.