Join us for an inspiring episode of the Dallas Metro Podcast as Pastor Clay welcomes Kermit Bell, Assistant Superintendent and Missions Director for the North Texas District of the Assemblies of God. Hailing from the small town of Friona, Texas, Kermit grew up in a close-knit community where his family ran a small business. After losing his father at age 12, he was shaped by a supportive local church and a resilient mother who ran the business for 30 years. Kermit felt a divine calling early on, leading him to pursue a business degree at Nelson University, where he met his wife, Cindy. Married for 43 years, they have five adult children and 12 grandchildren, with two great-grandchildren born recently. Kermit served as a pastor in Austin for 33 years, including 15 as senior pastor, before taking on his current role, where he oversees 165 missionary units.

In this heartfelt conversation, host Clay and Kermit explore the transformative power of missions and the importance of living a life of stewardship. Kermit shares how a mission trip to Topeka, Mexico, early in his ministry sparked a passion for global outreach, leading his church to support 150 missionaries and ministries. He emphasizes the value of exposing people to missions to broaden their perspective and combat self-centeredness, drawing parallels to the broader challenges of Western Christianity. The discussion delves into the need for genuine community, the role of the local church, and the impact of prayer, with Kermit referencing the book Lead with Prayer by Ryan Skoog as a catalyst for deepening spiritual life.

The episode also highlights the ongoing work of Dallas Metro Ministries, as Clay shares updates on their new facility project, guided by architect Michael Cathcart and supported by the Lighthouse Church. Kermit encourages pastors to engage in missions, noting that it recalibrates a church’s focus, opens avenues for God’s blessings, and aligns with a kingdom-focused vision. He underscores the proven impact of Dallas Metro, urging listeners to support their mission to build a church for kids in Dallas through donations at metro.org. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, faith, and a call to action for kingdom impact.

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