Construction begins (6-7-08)

We are moved into the townhouse and mostly unpacked so in my prayers I asked the Lord “what can I do to get this coffee shop started?” I heard him tell me to go take some measurements, make a layout plan and figure out what to do to get the permits and licenses I will need. So I wrote these things down and a few mins later I got a call from Max Ellis, the owner of the building we will be leasing space in. He asked if we could meet at the building to talk. I assumed he wanted me to sign a lease and pay the balance of the deposit. As usual I need to stop assuming.

I showed up at 10am and there was Mr. Ellis and his contractor Tommy. We small talked for a bit about the move and adjusting to Alabama. Mr. Ellis then changed the subject and said, “Tommy is here so he can head up the construction that we need to get this place up and running.” Next thing I know, we are taking measurements and laying out plans for how the coffee shop will be set up… just like God told me, only I didn’t know the contruction would be starting so quickly. Later that day we were meeting with the electrical and plumbing contractors to get the specific power and water requirements. The best part is that Mr. Ellis is paying for all the construction up front, he told me he would roll the costs into my lease and I could pay it back to him that way. I was blown away. I still havn’t signed a lease or paid anything more than my deposit. God is just doing it all and I am very thankful. I can’t wait to see what else He is going to do with this coffee shop… and the church He will raise up around it.

We are still praying for guidance and provision concering the coffee making equipment. We are also praying for Tommy and his crew as they work, give them safety and skill. We also need God’s wisdom and guidance as we apply for permits and licenses; and his grace in compliance with building codes and inspections. I am also praying that we will be a good witness to Tommy and Mr. Ellis.

God is so Good, We worship and praise Him in the spirit of Joshua 23:14:

…and you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one thing has failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spoke concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one word of them has failed.