David Williams felt God’s calling to invest time in reading the Bible. It was in this same season that David was also leading his wife and two daughters to find a new church home. Matoaca Baptist Church in South Chesterfield was one of those they visited.
Pastor Marco Smith greeted their family and learned that Williams enjoys the outdoors. Pastor Smith encouraged Williams to check out the Kids Outdoor Zone (KOZ) ministry in their church. KOZ provides men with training and curriculum to reach the fatherless and fathered boys.
“David wanted to get plugged in, get these boys out on his boat, and help them mature in Christ,” said Smith.
Although Williams does not have a son, he is still led to use his gifts and knowledge for God through KOZ. Williams has been pouring into the young men who attend and says this has been fulfilling and a blessing. The guys really enjoy the activities, which creates the perfect opportunity to teach them more about Christ.
“I think it’s important for the younger ones to see strong leaders in Christ so that they have an example to look to; I think it is important to just be there,” said Williams.
Williams invited his teenage nephew, Russell Hamby, to the KOZ gatherings. Hamby was very engaged in the lessons, and that led to Williams discipling him until Hamby made the faithful decision to follow Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Pastor Smith then led Hamby through believer’s baptism.
“The relationships I’ve been able to make with the adults and children that attend KOZ have brought me closer to them and the church,” said Hamby.
Matoaca Baptist Church members say the KOZ ministry has been a great addition. God has used the ministry to engage this new believer and other young men by teaching not only life skills but also eternal lessons from God’s Word.
