This Month at PAYH: Monthly Newsletter, April 2023

Here Am I! Send Me!

By Dr. Jeff Padgett

Many of us have heard messages preached or taught concerning this scripture passage in church. It comes from Isaiah 6, when God asks the question, “Who will go for Us?” Isaiah responds with, “Here am I! Send me.

When God called me to preach, I was under the impression that if God gives it to you, everyone will receive it with a smile. About a year into preaching, I had the rude awakening that it was different from what I initially thought. In fact, not only did everyone not receive the Word of the LORD at times when it was given, but some rebelled against it, with bitterness and acidity.

When I first realized this, I let God know I didn’t want to do this anymore. Sometimes people don’t like what you have to say to them. God rebuked me and let me know He didn’t call me to get approval from people. I was called to preach and speak His Word and not worry myself over if people approved of the Word He had for them. I was called to be obedient to Him, whatever the consequences.

I tell you this because when God called Isaiah, he, and most of the other prophets, had to deliver messages that were not always received with enthusiasm. Many times, they were met with anger and rebellion.

God calls everyone on some level. Don’t let the enemy convince you otherwise. He will have you thinking, “Since I’m not a preacher or teacher, none of this applies to me.” Let me put this thinking to rest; it does apply to you.

One of the foundational teachings we have for the young men at PAYH is when you volunteer to go for God, walking with Him brings great joy and excitement. However, do not be discouraged when people don’t always warm up to what God speaks through you. After you leave PAYH, you may encounter old friends from your past. They may not have changed, but YOU HAVE! Walk in obedience, even in the face of old relationships, despite what God may give you to say or do. In doing this, you will ALWAYS be successful.

Great Things Are Happening In The Lives Of The Young Men At PAYH!

The Lord is faithfully moving in POWER at PAYH! Six wonderful young men have committed their lives to Christ, two have graduated from the program since January, and, to top it off, one of our recent grads was baptized on the very same day—a true testament to how far they’ve come through His empowering grace. With continued support from generous partners like you, we are confident that even greater Kingdom works are ahead in this season of growth!

PAGC’s 30th Anniversary

It will be here before you know it. The 2023 Paul Anderson Golf Classic is set to kick off Monday, May 1st, 2023. We’re especially excited about this year, as it is the 30^th ANNIVERSARY of this event. You can register via the website, payh.org/golf. Register now, as slots are already filling up.

A Surprise Guest For The Young Men

We were privileged to have Quinton Aaron, “The Blind Side” star, visit PAYH. He graciously took the time out of his busy schedule to have dinner with us and speak to our young men. Our boys were truly blessed to hear his encouraging words and to show him around the home. We hope he visits again soon!

2023 Chick-fil-A Road Race Recap

What an amazing day we had! The weather was pristine, and the mood was positive and upbeat. Something was there for every member of the family, and it could not have happened without our sponsors, our contestants, and the Lord above for His grace and mercy! In addition, one of our young men, Jace (pictured above), finished third overall in the 10K race, with a time of forty-six minutes and fifty-four seconds. We are so proud of him and his accomplishment! The young men are already pumped and ready for next year’s event! Take a look at the recap video of the day and enjoy!