Rita Dodson, 490 Testimony

What is 490?

The “490” Sunday school class is structured to help individuals learn how to maneuver through the difficulties and struggles life can throw through scripture, prayer, and fellowship. To strengthen our relationship and walk with God, while building solid and genuine friendships with others who understand and support us, no after our flaws, weaknesses, insecurities, or sins.

Who is the “490” group for?

Anyone and everyone! No matter your life or situation. We all have some type of struggle in our lives- From financials, forgiveness, relationships, loss of loved ones, addiction, or self-worth issues. Any age, race, or gender. If you have struggles, 490 is for you.

Benefits of 490?

You will become so much closer in your relationship with God. You will gain a new sense of insight and understanding of your struggles. We learn that God loves us despite our flaws, weakness, and sins. 490 is here to support, love, and pray for its members as they conquer their struggles and grow in their faith. Creating friendships that we can trust and lean on to help us overcome our battles through tough times is something we all could use a little bit more!

My Personal 490 Experience

About a year ago, I received a text message about a new group being put together at Eudora Baptist Church called the “490 Small Group”. The main focus of this group is to help the hurting and specialize in help for people who have or still are going through tough times and just need a good support system. I was told that God had put myself and a couple of other people in their hearts.

My first prideful thought was wow- I must e transparent for them to think I need this class. Was I that pathetic that others looked at me and saw weakness? I admit, I felt singled out and a little on the defensive side.

But, I swallowed my pride and went to the first 490 class… And I have been to everyone since then.

This class is REAL. It does not matter who you are, where you came from, whether you are a lifelong mature Christian or lost and living a life with sin or without Christ. The benefits and blessings of this class are unending for all who attend.

I was saved and baptized as a child and rededicated my life to Christ thirty years ago. I have been a believer all my life and have tried to live the Christian life as best as I could or knew how. Scripture tells us that just because we accept Christ as our Savior, God does not guarantee us a life free of trials and struggles. Salvation also does not give us an easy ride through, nor does it fix or erase tough times. But Scripture provides us written instructions on how to deal with the trials life can throw our way.

I have and still do struggle with self-worth and loving myself like scripture saws we are supposed to do. I have been hurt by people whom I thought never would and forgiveness is hard! I have experienced indescribable loss in my life and has brought its own difficult struggles.

In this 490 class, we keep it real and we keep it honest. Most importantly, we keep its understanding, and supportive, and we do not judge. We love, study, and pray. We grow as individuals and as a group. Most of all, we grow our relationship with God.

By doing these things together, I am finding that I am loved and worthy of being loved. That id God leads us to do it- He will lead us through it! We just have to have it to him and trust him in His plans for our lives.

This group is a serving group. My spiritual gift is serving; with this group of amazing people, I have found purpose and joy in my Christian Walk!

I am blessed beyond measure to be a part of his 490 groups. I hope and pray that if you are struggling with anything in any way, you can let go of your fear, embarrassment, pride, or anything keeping you from taking the next step forward- And come join us. Let us love you through it and grow beside you!