Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Re-New Year

This is the time of year when a lot of cooking, eating, baking and more eating is going on. Sometimes we forget what we had left in containers (food) and it spoils because we forgot about it. My wife offered us an orange last night that had turned green. I forgot we had those. I hate when that happens. Of course, she was joking, because she would not offer spoiled food to anyone. Yet, people will offer up (routinely) their old worn out stuff...broken down stuff...change from the dresser...scraps to God. ---Make a vow to not do that this year. Give God something that when you give it...you feel it. King David said that he would not give God something that cost him nothing.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Jesus is the head of the church

Is Jesus the head of the church? It's always fun when family gets together, and then it's always dangerous when political or religious discussions take place. But out of nowhere one of the relatives just went off "Jesus isn't the head of the church...He wouldn't have anything to do with the church today..." and on the rant went as the rest of the house stood aghast. ---It ended quickly as everyone realized this was not the discussion anyone really wanted to engage at Christmas time with the family. But it cut me deep, to stop and think about that. As a church we have to be careful to not take over the church. God calls preachers, and He places people in leadership, and sends support-personnel to grow His church. We need to serve like we own it, but realize all is for His glory. But don't forget this: Jesus is the head of the church, and we really can't mess that up. Jesus is coming back for the church, and that is not dependent on us! So, let us strive to be blameless and follow Him closely. Is Jesus the head of our local church? Pastors, leaders, and members need to individually ask the question: Is Jesus Lord over me? Stop and reflect: Are you following Jesus, or are you treating him like a toy doll and bringing Him out of the closet when you feel like it? Is everything we do as a church to bring Him glory by bringing people to Him?---It's good for people to ask tough questions or make tough statements every now and then. By the way, Jesus is the head of the church; and there is no way you or I can mess that up. The church is the bride of Christ and He is coming back for her. I know that because Jesus said so.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Why the sense of Expectancy?


Have you wondered why there is this sense of expectancy around Christmas time? We feel like something special ... something really huge is about to happen...and then the day after Christmas is like a huge let down. We live with anticipation up to the 25th. Some people start early and then others wait until the last couple of days, but that expectancy is there. God has hidden eternity in our hearts... we live (whether we know it or not) with a sense of spiritual expectancy. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.-Ecc.3:11 There is a day coming when Christ will return. It will no longer be a time of expectancy, but a time of celebration. Until then, live the life of a child and absorb the emotions of anticipation. Rejoice that you will be with Him in the Happily Everafter. When the Day After woes hit, remind yourself that it is not time yet.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

EOTY

The end of the year is rapidly upon us. Be sure to take time to reflect on the past year on when you got "it" right and when you got "it" wrong. Think about the times God bailed you out, and thank God. Thank Him for the multiple times you forgot to thank Him anyway.---Get away from the hustle and bustle and "be still and know that God is God." Do better next year...start practicing now.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Climate, the world, pollution

I'm following the World Climate Summit from a distance. While I'm not buying into the whole global warming per AG, I am concerned for our environment. We have technology to not be stupid. But other countries are now dealing with the stupidity that we used to (ie. dumping their waste into rivers and such)exhibit. Consider India for a second. Due to their religion cows are worshipped, yet rivers (which hold water needed for life) have become sewers. I was reading where a 61 year old man from India was being interviewed. He said that his country needed to figure this whole pollution thing out soon. As soon as the interview ended he tossed his plastic cup into the bushes.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Truth

Truth does one of two things: it either hurts or it sets someone free. It depends on what you do with it.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

TW

Okay, I have been biting my tongue to weigh in on the Tiger Wood's discussion. For the most part I'm keeping my comments out of the fray. However, I heard a female sport's commentator say something I couldn't let go. She said that in order for TW to get his golf game back, he should go ahead and get a divorce. Wow! Come on ladies, I expect more of an outcry. She might as well have said, "Drop the 'old' bag and start over with your life." Hello...how about dropping golf and saving his marriage? How about his two kids? Come on America, wake up! ---My prayer and hope is for the guy's salvation, and for him to work things out with his wife. Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Delusion

How long will you love false delusions and seek after false gods?--Ps.4:2b Delude means to mislead or deceive the mind. Many of the things that we consider reality aren't reality at all. Take reality tv for instance. A camera in your living room...really? That's reality? Jesus tried to turn the minds of the people away from this world (unreality) to the spiritual (the real reality). What delusion are you under? What non-reality is taking you away from serving and worshiping God?

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Signs of the times


Daughter getting married-check.

Son graduating college-check.

Daughter almost done with college-check.

Son-the youngest turning 18-check.

Reading classes now needed-check.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

The Rub

I would consider myself mildly informed about things like Healthcare Reform and the Bill that is before us. I must say I'm disappointed at the rapid rate in which some leaders tried to run the bill through while saying they want to be transparent. ---But I heard some stuff from a guy that I consider reputable, John Stossel formerly 20/20 fame. He is a journalist that checks things out and I've just noticed him to be fair. He was on FOX last night and shared how the AARP has backed the current health plan. But, he gave an insight that was frightening. Yes, it is frightening when just a few folks in that organization can speak for the multitude who are just paying dues to get discounts at PoFolks and whatnot. The leaders and board of AARP are former politicians who I guess are getting a paycheck there instead of government. Not only that, the AARP will profit from Gap insurance. We will stick our children with a huge debt...the governing party is happy...the AARP leadership is happy...and all is nice. NO! Heck no!---Check it out. I don't want to confuse anyone, but as I listened to Stossel; it made sense. And he was passionately upset about. Don't take my word...check it out. The AARP doesn't make it's money off membership. It makes it off things like Gap insurance. Stossel sent his card in. We've got to get out of debt! Cut health care costs. Put the people that solved the Apollo 13 crisis in charge. Gates, Buffet, somebody make it stop!

Refreshing


"He's a good man. The NFL is about players, and he gets that. He understands his role is to direct and guide and to keep the guys focused on the task at hand. The players absolutely respect him, and he's created a great, level-headed team. A team that doesn't blink."--This was said about Jim Caldwell, the new head coach of the Colts. The team is 10-0. A great start! I didn't even know his name, and after reading the article I realized that he doesn't want people to know his name...just get the job done. This guy is a great leader and full of humility. In fact, he wouldn't sit down for the article. The journalist (Elizabeth Merrill) had to do her homework.

<>< href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?page=hotread11/Jim%20Caldwell">http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?page=hotread11/Jim%20Caldwell

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Giving


It was great to see so many from our church give over and above to help other people this Thanksgiving. You helped people locally and overseas. Then again, that is no surprise, because many of you do this year round. God loves a cheerful giver. To those that do so, keep on keeping on. To those that don't, we invite you to join the Association of Hilarious Givers or AHG for short. The AHG folks often experience AGT (All God Things). Where does that money come from in harsh economic times: I dunno...maybe the same place that people get money to take care of little dogs, big dogs, cigarettes, jewelry, pampered whatever during harsh economic times.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Reflections from the cruise


Twenty-five years of marriage wins you a cruise. Okay, not really we had to pay for it, but it was well worth it. Just a couple of quick notes of reflection. Both of these have to do with worship. First of all, the aquatic experience snorkeling among God's beautiful little fishies. Un-stinkin-believable! It was a worshipful experience viewing them in the tiny little houses God had made for them in the coral reefs. Thanks God for letting us see that. The second opportunity dealt with the sense of sound, as we got to listen to masterful musicians do their thing. Incredible! I found that I could clap and cheer, but I could not raise my hands for these masters of the art. Lifting of these hands are not for my favorite band or the most talented orchestra; the raising of these hands are reserved for worship of the Most Holy God!

Friday, November 13, 2009

I had to look it up


Minding my own business I was reading a sports clip about how NBA superstar Lebron James was going to change his jersey number next year to pay homage to MJ's 23. He currently wears that number and would relinquish and suggested others follow suit. That was not the storyline that got me curious. What stirred me up was his new number 6. The 24 year old all star gave the reasoning for his new number choice and it partially had to do with his two children and their birthdates. Uh-oh! Two kids. I didn't know Lebron was married. So I checked it out. He's not. He says he is. He defined marriage as his girlfriend lives with him and not her mama. Here in lies the problem with our society and the struggles of identity that children go through. When we make our own rules and laws for our own convenience, or so that we don't have to make or keep a true commitment someone will suffer when we just bow out of the relationship. The ones that suffer are the children. WOMEN STOP THIS INSANITY AND MAKE THE MAN COMMIT. MEN SHOW RESPECT, AND MAKE A TRUE COMMITMENT. What are we teaching our children?

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Don't run


What are you running from? Almost everyone seems to be running from something...hurricanes, other people, themselves. Some even run from the truth. They won't listen to the people that could help them the most by telling them the truth. Don't run. Stop and listen to the truth. The truth is not evasive...the truth doesn't run. The truth is something you can stand on. Invite someone to tell you the truth today.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Pure and Blameless

How often do we start off our day (intentionally) with the idea of being pure and blameless? It sounds like a lofty goal. It could sound like a given(for the self-righteous). For the follower of Christ, it should be more than the ideal; it should be the norm. It's what we do. (or should do) Pure and blameless go together like two peas in a pod. If I maintain purity, then I will be blameless. Unfortunately, the world we mill around in on a daily basis is against purity. It is more about conformity and plurality. Go against the grain today, and be pure. You won't have to watch your back, because you will be blameless.
Suggested reading Phil.1:1-11

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Vick's Vapor Rub


This was funny. (not the sick part) I've got this cold deep in my chest, so I'm getting ready for bed and I'm lubed up with Vick's Vapor Rub (great stuff) soothing my chest. I'm walking around and Teresa tells me that I have to be lying down with that stuff on my chest. I was like "really!" I thought a second, and I told her that her momma must have told her that to get her to lay still when she was a kid. Apparently, that comment bothered her enough to read the bottle. Her mother will be getting a call because it ain't in the instructions.

Sick Days

Been sick for a few days. Bummer. Knocked me off the blog. Sorry. We had an incredible day Sunday, as many from church were able to go and prayer walk over the land. There is a lot to do, so we've got to come together united in Christ and we can achieve His plan. There was an abundance of wildlife tracks, and some very interesting land behind us. We might need to make another purchase. Woooooeee! First let's pay for this. In the meanwhile, reach out to the world around you. Jesus went to the needy and helpless. Jump in and do all you can with Operation Christmas Child this week and Thanksgiving for families in need the next week.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Guest blog: Heartbreak Hill


This was good.

Welcome to Heartbreak Hill. The most famous marathon race in America is the Boston Marathon. The toughest part of the race, where runners are most likely to give up, is called Heartbreak Hill. We are now in the equivalent of “Heartbreak Hill” for those who enter the race of reading through the Bible. The books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers have been a wall for many. In Exodus it is the detailed description of building the tabernacle and its furnishings. In Leviticus it is the careful description of the procedures for sacrifice and atonement for sin. In Numbers it is the lists of genealogies. Many find the reading of this portion of the Bible the most difficult part of reading the Bible through.
Challenging it may be, but it is also important. God thought these passages important enough to include in His Word. As I have been reading through this section of my current journey through the Bible, these insights have come to mind. To read these pages of my Bible is to be taught God really does notice and care about details. He does not want us to get just the big things right. He wants us to get every part of our lives right. I have also been reminded how very, very serious sin is to our holy and righteous Lord. In addition every page of Leviticus is reminding me how grateful I am for Jesus who satisfied all the requirements of the law, become the scapegoat for my sin, and made certain the forgiveness of my sin.
I hope you are learning some lessons as well. If ‘Heartbreak Hill” has slowed you down, don’t quit. Get a good cup of coffee or a big glass of tea this weekend, and take some time to catch up. As a family of church and mission leaders, we do want to read every page of our Bibles. We do want to spend our lives helping others to know, understand, and apply God’s Word. Let’s conquer “Heartbreak Hill” together!
Yours & His,
Chuck Kelley, President

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Green Day


Two words. Together these words mean different things to different people. To some people it is a famous pop-culture band. To some it has something to do with being earth-friendly. But to a parent of young children in school it means a great deal more. A green day means they were a good civilian in school that day. And a whole week of green days often leads to a fun family weekend full of treats. ---What if God gave us green days, yellow days and red days?

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Home Training


Maybe this blog will hold me accountable to follow through on something. As a disclaimer let me say right off, I don't think I've got it all together. However, like you, I hear of people doing stuff that seems, uh...well...stupid. There just isn't any politically correct way to say it. So, I will find myself thinking (sometimes out loud), "they don't have any home training." Again, I'm sure I've done stuff (and out of respect for my momma-it ain't her fault.) that others thought was stupid. But I'm collecting these thoughts and trying to write them down in the form of a book called "Home Training." We'll see what happens. Maybe you have thoughts. (Send them, even though there is no finder's fee.)One of the most recent ones, and not necessarily the funniest, but someone told me that a person called their cel phone seventeen times in 10 minutes. I guess they thought that I thought the person was exaggerating, so they wanted to show me on their phone (I declined. Because I have home training enough not to look at someone's inbox.) Home Training point: if someone doesn't answer your call a.)their phone may be on silent b.)they may be in a meeting c.) we are not slave to the phone, it is a convenience d.) phone is in the car/truck e.) phone is off f.) after your 3rd call they decided they didn't want to talk to you because you were bugging them g.)this could go on and on. Next time, call once and leave a message. ---This is only about you if you do it. It is most certainly not about anyone I've talked to lately.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Praying in Tranquility


Had a great time with the LORD today. At the end of the day HE invited me out to a certain 35.26acres of land to talk. Good times. Wow! That is a lot of land. It was awesome just imagining how HE will use this place for His work. But mostly the time was filled with intercessory prayer for the Lost. I yearn to see God save so many that we've spent a lot of time praying for. ---Be encouraged today to fight the good fight. We do not wrestle with people. People aren't the problem. Our battle is with principalities, authorities and rulers of darkness that hover over this world. Pray to God today. Pray hard. He will see you through!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Add and Subtract


Okay you procrastinators...it's Thursday. Resolve to do what you said you would do on Sunday. Commit to one change to add time with God.

And commit to one change to subtract time from distractions (self).

Do what you intended for a change.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Krispy Kreme and Assorted Junk


I remember hearing the rumor less than a year ago that KK was going out of business. So, we felt obligated every time we went within 6miles of KK in Pensacola to purchase a dozen mixed and of course a dozen glazed (since you got a dollar off). I wandered how could this place that brought such joy and delight to our taste buds could be going out of business. The world would never be the same. ----and then I read today what had happened. They tried to grow too fast, experienced some mismanagement<-- that is the bad news...rumble, rumble the good news is that they are making a come back. Hallelujah! On another eatery note: How about McD's? We go there probably once a year...just to make sure there fries are still the best. Most people I talk to rarely go there...so surely they are going out of business soon will all the fierce competition and the economy. Brrrrnk, wrong! They are expected to post $6billion in revenue at the end of the next quarter. What does all this mean? Not a thing if you are a vegetarian. Just some random junk. Beats reading about political stuff.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Back to What Got You There


It's funny how things twist around. I've been watching my favorite college football team fall again, and hoping for next year before the halfway point. This school used to dominate, and have a beautiful stadium, top-notch facilities because of their past success. The guys that are now using this hi-tech facility had nothing to do with it getting there. So I thought, it would be a good idea to kick them out of the facility... a lock-out. Make them go back to old school...rough it...nothing fancy. They need to earn the right to use that facility. They need to get back to basics. No indoor tracks...No fancy outfits. They should have to wear old gray sweatshirts with a picture of a football on it.---Then I was thinking about some things that I used to do in my spiritual walk to help me get closer to God. It rose up as God challenged me and our church to change one thing in our spiritual walk to get more intimate with God. Somewhere along the way I switched to doing my quiet time with God on the computer (I went hi-tech), but then I wasn't always around a computer or that computer. So, I missed here and there. To make a long story short, I'm going back to the basics. I got me an old scraggly looking notebook (gray teeshirt), and I'm getting back at it.

Here's a little something something from my reading this morning. (Jn.3:1-21)

Nicodemus says: "...we know that you (Jesus) are a teacher from God."--v.3

Jesus says: "...you people do not accept our testimony."--v.11

Conflict:

"We know you are a teacher from God" --vs--"you won't accept our testimony"

Here's the freedom of choice plan for man: take what you know about Jesus and believe or take what you know about Jesus and don't believe.

*Nicodemus thought he was a member, but Jesus told him that he had to be born again!

Jn.3:21 "But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Get it right in the first place


We had a lunch break today, and had to check out one of the local diners. When in New Orleans you've got to eat a shrimp po-boy. IT'S THE LAW. Anyway, I couldn't help notice a bunch of political figures dealing with the youth killings and gang violence especially highlighted by recent incidents in Chicago(news on tv). I listened as these men in their fine suits with chests poked out claimed they (govt) are going to really crack down and fix this. ----I couldn't help relating that to the work we are doing on this house in New Orleans. It took a lot of time getting everything level and straight for a firm foundation so that everything else we did would be true. ---HELLO, the government can't fix families and kids. If anything, the government should do all they can to promote families staying together. Parent have to train their kids up right. The easy answer to that one is STAY TOGETHER AND WORK THINGS OUT. Live right before them, because more is caught than taught. (That's not just a cute little saying.) Parents of little ones...get it right now...don't expect the government to do everything for you! Trust in the LORD always and lean not on your own understanding.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

5 Minute Testimonies

What a day! It started out at 5am helping make breakfast for the crew, then working from 7-5 in the heat and humidity offered by New Orleans. After a day of hard work both crews were glad to get back to the place we were staying to eat and rest. But there would be no rest, because due to a mistake there was no "feeding crew" this time; so both crews were alternating who would do the cooking. Tonight it was our turn. (That's a whole different story.) Anyhoo, after eating we agreed to just go around and share how we came to Christ. Awesome. I love to hear people's story. Almost everyone's 5 minute testimony turned into a 15 minute testimony. Do the math. We had a three hour church service and no one wanted to leave. It's amazing how many of our stories are very similar. Keep praying for people. Keep telling people about Jesus even if it is just a small word.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Come and See


In John 1 we are told of how Philip had met Jesus, and was convinced that he was the Messiah...the one Moses and the Prophets had foretold. So he goes to tell his friend Nathaniel. Well Nate isn't so easily convinced. He knows Jesus is from Nazareth and evidently Nate didn't think any good thing could come from Nazareth (that would be a presupposition, a potential obstacle for belief). Philip says one thing, "Come and see." That is what we want others to do. Come and see for themselves. Come as you are, and meet Jesus as He is. Jesus is the Differencemaker! Invite others to come and see.---The fastest growing churches in America have one thing in common...they are crazy about inviting people to come and meet Jesus.---Just do it. Get silly about it. Use our invite cards or make your own. Do all you do for God's glory.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Joined and Knit Together


Synergy is a word used to describe the effect of two different components or people coming together to accomplish something that neither of them could have accomplished alone. Together hydrogen and oxygen provide an element that covers 3/4 of the earth, that makes life possible. Paul writes in his letter to the Ephesians "From him (Jesus) the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." God has gifted the body of Christ, the church, with various spiritual gifts. No one person has all the gifts, thus we need each other to be complete. God pretty much demands that we work together, if we are to be complete in Him. Yes, everyone is supposed to do their "part", but notice in the verse above that the whole body is to be joined together by every supporting ligament. We need to do our part together if we are to achieve God's will for His church. An ankle by itself is useless, but a foot and leg without an ankle are not even close to being efffective as intended. Church---let's get together and do greater things for God's kingdom together. Yes, we can do some things faster alone, however we can do more and biggere together. "And He died for all that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again."---What does that mean to you? Do you need to humbly submit and say what can I do to help? Where can I fit to do the greatest with this team of warriors? Bloom. You were created for a purpose! Live. (Eph.4:16: 2 Cor. 5:15)

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Inviter


We are in the "inviting" business. We invite people to church. We invite people to meet Jesus. We invite people to get to know Jesus. We invite people to hear about our relationship with Jesus. We invite people to have their own personal relationship with Jesus. Keep on inviting. Never grow weary in introducing people to Jesus. The first thing Andrew did after he met Jesus was go get his brother and bring him to Jesus.---fine example to follow. Invite your friends and family to the "DifferenceMaker" series. Come as you are, meet Jesus as He is.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

It ain't no party


Being a missionary in a Third World country "ain't no party." Amanda is in West Africa on a two-year stint. She is among a primarily Muslim people trying to help translate the Bible into their language. There are many barriers and challenges. However, she has really grown in her love for God's Word and for the people in her village. The hot season, the rainy season, the mosquitoes and the lack of what we're used to ---all bring their own challenges. Yet, Amanda and her co-worker Brittany are faithful. Remember them and pray for them in your daily prayers to finish strong. I am proud of these young women of exemplifying dying to self, and giving up two-years to serve others. ---But, I'm sure they don't look at it that way at all. Go girls!

Monday, September 28, 2009

Follow HIM


"Levi got up and followed him." Jesus' call to "follow him" is a call to faith. Even though we don't know where he is going or where he is leading us; we should know from his track record that it is the right way. Who wants to go the wrong way? Going the wrong way is a waste of time and money; and often leads to heartache. We spend a lot of money on devices that help guide us the right way. Jesus' call is simple. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life; and no man comes to the Father except through Jesus Christ. ---Follow HIM.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

ESPN.COM

You ladies need to check this website out. It is informative and takes neither a liberal or conservative point of view. In fact, the ladies on The View had one of its regulars on this week. It often carries stories of life that bring a tear even to the toughest man. It talks about the journey of life that people and groups of people called (teams) go through every day and every week. It speaks to the heart in season and out of season. I clued our illustrious secretary into this website yesterday, where she read a heart-wrenching story of a young man and young woman dealing with real life issues. http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=4489416

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Father of the Bride


Okay, it's no joke now. I got my first "your-stupid-you-know-nothing-about-weddings-we-don't need-your-input" looks. I assumed the check-writing posture which is similar to the fetal position. I will be here until the wedding is done. For those that don't know, Brittany is officially engaged and will be getting married in February. The fun begins. I'm going to pick a night to watch Father of the Bride wearing my snuggie.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Soap Box


I've been around long enough to know that you can't please everyone, and there is only One that you need to live to please. But every now and then I'll hear something that gets in my crawl (interpretation: bugs me) such as hearing the comment: "I don't like this study, it's too shallow... it's not deep enough." The funny thing is that there is someone else saying "It's too deep." There is no such thing as "One Size Fits All." OSFA means it fits nothing! Therefore, those that want to go deeper with our Sermon-based studies need to actually do the homework and go deep. It is up to you. Likely there are new-believers in your group that are still swimming in the shallow water...respect that.

see Philippians 2:14 for deeper study:"Do everything without complaining or arguing"

Friday, September 18, 2009

Passion Experiment

What is passion? How do you measure it? Are you too passionate about something, and not passionate about what you say is top shelf?
Try this:
Go hang out with some friends doing the thing they are passionate about and that you hate. It has to be something you don't like for optimum effect. See how they react. See what they put into it. Do they spend too much money on that? Do they waste too much time on that? Do they look silly?
Now consider that thing you like to do? Could it look silly to others? Could it be said you waste too much time or money on that?
Now, think. Are you giving time, money, attention, effort to that which you would say is most important to you?
It may be that you are not passionate about what you thought you were passionate about. You may need to make life changes to make adjustments.
We do what we want to do.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Crazy Love


I'm reading a book called Crazy Love by Francis Chan. I wanted to read it when I first heard about it, but I'm just now getting around to it. It's a quick read, but I'm reading it slow. It is a must read for all followers of Jesus. It's about God, it's about life, it's about love. It is not mushy. It is real. Below is not the main theme of the book, it is just what I read last night.

I could be the next person in my family or in my church family to die. "We have to realize it. We have to believe it enough that it changes how we live."-51

Most of us need a radical change in how we live our lives. Seriously. Not so much about us. I remember coming back from Haiti thinking about how much stuff I have that is unnecessary. Think about all the things we have just to make us happy. Think about the things you buy your kids to keep them happy. We act like we're staying here forever and we are not. What will people say at your funeral?---I can tell you what they will say. They will say nice things, because they always do.---But will they be true? Will many people come to faith in Christ at your funeral because you had already died to self in this life? Hmmm. I know it sounds kind of morbid, but checking out of here is a positive for a follower of Christ. How are you living? Make adjustments even if they are radical.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Short time

I was reading a book that shared a story about a fourteen year old girl who was so in love with Jesus that she started a Bible study on her school campus. She spent her babysitting money on Bibles to give to lost friends. She wanted to be a difference-maker at a young age. These stories aren't usually told unless something bad happens. You guessed it, she was killed in a car wreck as a teenager. Nearly 1500 people came to her funeral, and many received Christ and were given Bibles due to the testimony of her life. Hers was not a wasted life. Stories of people who died after living godly lives are stories with happy endings.
Sadly, many people die while living selfishly. I attended a funeral several years ago (so glad I was not asked to officiate) of a person that was ...well, just a really bad person. The person officiating spoke very generic trying to say good things about this person, then asked if anyone would stand and say some things over the deceased. I listened as a couple of people tried to say some nice things about a person that had done nothing in this life unless it benefited them(plus some really bad things).
The stories are similar. Both people died to themselves. The teenage girl died to self while a teenager and lived for God, and many would stand and testify of how great her life was---and be telling the truth.
The second person died to self at the funeral. No one could say anything truly good about this person for that person had lived life unto themselves.
Don't waste your life. There is still time to turn it around. What can you do for others today,tomorrow, the next day---that would make the name of Jesus famous?

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

100


My 100th post comes on 090909 my birthday. I should go play golf today, but I would probably shoot a 90 or 100, so I will wait a day.---We had our Love/Dare Group meeting last night. It is 7 couples meeting once a week, while we are (together) for forty days doing intentional things for one another as married couples (clarify: working on our own marriages). It may sound corny, but I have found out in the last few months how soooo many marriages are just a whiff away from destruction. I am proud of these couples making this investment in time. We have newly married couples and longtime married couples. We have found (no shock) that we all deal with some of the same things. By coming together we bring these things to light, and we can deal with them. Those big differences in spouses are meant to be complementary. Oh yeah, my best friends 26th wedding anniversary is today too---Congrats Mike and Tammie! For better or for worse was a promise we made to each other. Just a plug---if you get a chance to do the Love/Dare, go for it. We may offer it again if people want to do it. I love my God who is way too merciful and gracious to me. I love my wife who is way too wonderful to me. I love my kids who are the coolest and bestest. I love my folks who made good decisions early in my life that probably saved my life from going the wrong direction. I love and hope the best for my brother and sister. I love the church God has allowed me to be a part of. ---done---not crying or overly sentimental because of my age---see ya!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

N.O.A.H.

Time is running out. We need some folks, even if you have friends that can go with us to help rebuild New Orleans. The financial investment is $100, and the time investment is one week---October 5-11th. ---At the end of our service Sunday a lady (first-time guest) came forward to thank me (our church) for going to New Orleans and joining in the rebuilding process...she lives there.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Loose Connection


I've not left. Teresa and I took a much needed vacation, mixed with some work. We really appreciate everyone filling in the gaps. A special thanks goes out to AD who has to deal with "melt-downs" when I'm away. (And when I'm away, they usually happen.)the internet connection was weak where we were at, plus I limited my connectivity since I was attempting to relax. That is hard to do, isn't it? It is so hard to not stay connected. Therefore where there is a will, there is a way. We took the lap-top just in case. The little cottage (no frills)we were staying promised no internet, and that was fine. But of course, we checked it out, and I got a tiny signal in the room. We could get on just long enough to check a couple of things. However, by the end of the week we had moved the computer outside in search of that signal of connection we were yearning for. We had a relaxing time and were communicating well with one another, but we were missing the connection of friends and family. We found the wireless connection was coming from a tall condo across the street from our quaint cottage! You know what we did. We went pool-side and surfed the internet to our little hearts content. Yes, I look for a lesson in all parts of life; and found another one in this situation. Connection is important and we will do whatever it takes. The book on LTC is that we are great at welcoming people. We hear that from guests all the time. However, the stats show we don't always connect people real well. My prayer is for that to change. Do whatever it takes to help that connection take place. New people come because they need others to get connected with. Sure, be friendly, but more than that give up some space and welcome people in---really let them in. Give them your place at the table.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Forget Spanish

I had been recommending young people learn Spanish in high school and college, because of our growing Spanish population and the areas we go nearby on mission trips have a significant Spanish-speaking population. However, it looks like the Chinese are about to own the good ole USA if we don't learn and adapt "Dave Ramsey"-type financial ethics real quick. We've been selling out. Imagine a Great Wall around P'cola Beach.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Impact or Compact?


Many Christians have amassed a great amount of Bible knowledge. A faithful follower of Christ needs to be dispensing of all that knowledge. We can either impact our culture for Jesus Christ by sharing Who we know, or we can compact all that we know and become spiritually constipated and of no use to God.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Proud Papa


It has been an incredible last few days! One month before the due date Jessica and Ricky had their first baby(August 10th): Landon James. For those that don't know, Jessica & Ricky were teenage sweethearts when Living Truth started meeting in a living room nine years ago. We are proud for them and the grandparents Pat&Robbie Ropella, as well as Robbie&Tara Turner. ---But I was a proud papa also this weekend as I watched my kids: Melanie, Joshua, Jordan on stage give testimony of how they had opportunity to minister alongside other young people this past month to kids at local apartments. They shared the love of Jesus with kids and some came to Christ. I know our heavenly Father beamed as many of you were out in the community lately sharing Jesus' love by helping people and just being Jesus to this community by showering love in many different ways. I was also proud to hear how Rey, Melanie, and Rikie shared testimonies with the youth this weekend that were powerful and effective. Some youth came to know the LORD as a result of caring youth workers and these testimonies. God is a proud Papa when we make His name famous by doing good for others. This is what His church is to be known for. Keep up the good work. God has prepared us in advance to do good works. Make Him proud.

Monday, August 10, 2009

One Thing


In the movie "City Slickers" Curly talked about the one thing. Here is one thing that could help our walk be simpler, if we would take heed.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
All who follow His precepts have good understanding,
To Him belongs eternal praise
.---Ps.111:10The Bible truly flows as one book. The simple statement “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” gives man a simple understanding of how to live for the LORD. If we respected and revered God the way we should; knowing that He is omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent we would live obedient lives. ( For example, consider the things we do (defiant sin) as if an all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present God didn’t know about it or see it; and He won’t do anything about it.) Although we today are saved by grace through faith, true love is shown to our Savior through our obedience. So the Psalmist says “All who follow His precepts have good understanding.” Those that obey the truth God has hidden in their hearts are on the right track. Finally, “to Him belongs eternal praise.” There is this reminder that God will receive praise from His people forever. Fear (respect, revere, live in awe) of the LORD for that is a good rule of thumb for life! Talk to Him throughout the day, because He is ever-present. Practice for forever.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Disenfranchised


I'm still really trying to grasp an understanding of the atheist. Sincerely, my heart goes out to one that has faith and belief in nothingness. I know they say that my belief is based on my need to believe in Something, but there is some logic, not to mentions the trails of evidence I believe our Creator has left behind. Without getting into things like First Cause and the Watchmaker theory, which are logical arguments for a Creator; I turn to the person that leans on the crutch of atheism. What happened to my fellow journyman in the world to lead them down this path of hopelessness? It is a path of nothingness if we believe this all leads to just a hole in the ground for us at the end. Nothing really matters. So what happened? I have much more studying and listening to do, but I followed the comments of an atheist's blog the other day, and then checked his bio. It was interesting to find that as a child he had been indoctrinated into Jehovah Witness' teachings. ---Honestly, that might have turned me into an atheist. I'm wondering, not judgmentally, I'm just wondering if many have been disenfranchised with faith, because they have run into counterfiets to true Christianity. One thing I do know, is this guy was truly bothered that alleged Christians didn't live out thier beliefs. ---This old guy was once a young guy that never saw truly what it means to follow Christ. Now he claims to be an atheist. They even have a club! So there are a whole bunch of disenfranchised people out there, and I don't think they are weirdos. What can we do to help? They are people, like you and me on the journey. I want to hear why they believe what they believe, because they do believe something. Everyone does. Disenfranchised means to not be a citizen any more, to not be able to vote. God created us to have a relationship with Him, and there are some good folks that we know outside that relationship or citizenship (if you will). The atheist is not the enemy. The atheist is a person...a person that has been disenfranchised for some reason or another. Don't be that reason. I'm on a mission. I want to listen. I want to understand. I want them to get franchised...become a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Love looks like the best route.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Big Honkin Deal


Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written bythe prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him, spit on him, flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again."-Luke 18:31-33

Okay, so Jesus told them all that would happen before it happened, and it was everything that the prophets had already said long ago. Is it just me or is this more than a big, honkin deal? It goes back to God says and God does as He pleases. I'm sorry. I'm really trying to understand athiests, but I can't get past the evidence.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Prize Fighter


How often have you given in to temptation, and asked God to forgive you; and somewhere in that prayer appealed to God to forgive you because 'He knows your heart.'? Indeed, God knew King David as "a man after His own heart." Yet David flubbed up on several occasions. This does not give us an excuse and free right to sin. It is just an understanding of the process called sanctification. {Being made holy-simple definition}We are being made to look like the image of Christ daily. Daily challenges come that are meant to sharpen us. It is in our continual struggle with sin and obedience to God that sanctification does its work. ---Put up a fight! Don't yield so easily to temptation. Be set apart. Look like Jesus more and more every day. "...press on toward the goal to win the prize." Don't give up so easy. Don't say "that's just the way I am." Fight daily and fight to win! (suggested reading Phiippians 2&3)

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

The Process


Jesus told his disciples to get into the boat so they could all go to the other side of the Lake. [Mk.4:35]Traditional thinking would have us think that the whole goal here was to get into the boat to get to the other side of the lake. But a storm interrupted their little row or sail across the lake. In life we have turbulence. We are irritated by these moments in life that hinder us from getting to the other side or accomplishing our goal. ---The teaching moment for the disciples came when the storm brew up. The opportunity for them to show trust and faith showed up during the storm. Trust and obedience to Jesus Christ are the goal, not getting to the other side. We tend to despise the process, but it is the process that is the daily moments (the journey) of getting to the other side. Quit looking over there so much. Live, trust, obey in the moment.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Below average is good?


Approaching the end of the series dealing with "love one another", I have some thoughts to share. In baseball if a player gets a hit 3 out of 10 times at bat, he is considered doing well. Yet, he failed 7 times out of 10. If you are a good friend 3 out of 10 times, you are probably in danger of losing friends. Yet, none of us are perfect so there is a lot of leeway there...a lot of work that needs to be done in the relationship area of life. Do the work---be patient, kind, forgiving, etc. so that the world is a better place. Don't settle. Excel!

Monday, July 20, 2009

Giant Jellyfish


I was reading this article where these giant 6 feet long jelly fish are wrecking havoc off the coast of Japan. I thought what kind of havoc can a jellyfish cause? Evidently they get into the nets of fishermen and ruin the nets allowing the catch of fish to escape. That doesn't sound like too big a deal to us far away from the scene. But when your next meal and the village that you live in depends on this as a source for food---it's a huge deal. It turns out that these nets are owned by the whole community. These communities invest together so they can live. ---Ah! These people that have probably read few books on leadership, and are totally disconnected with the latest technology have learned that it takes togetherness for a community to survive and thrive. Doing one's part is not optional in their world...nor ours if we are to live out the life God intended.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

BFF


There are many layers of friendship. Look at Jesus' example. There were the seventy, the twelve, the three, the one---each type of friendship had its own dynamic. We have those people that are in our top 70, top ten, top 3, BFF. Everyone can't be your BFF, so don't get mad when they aren't, because it's impossible. Don't go Middle School on your friends. There are some people that are friends from a distance, and some that are up close and personal. That's okay. It is the way we are made. ---Who was Jesus' best friend? Oh, I think he had one, but I'll tell you what I think next week.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Disconcern for the Environment


Typically when discussing the environment saving the tree frog or global warming or saving the rain forest are hot topics. But what about saving the babies? I never understood this: the ones looking to save the whale or some nearly extinct spider don’t fight for the life of the unborn human. Why does this rattle the cage of those immersed in greenery? Likewise, those that are concerned for the unborn should be concerned about the planet in which these children would be left to manage. You did know that ‘s why were put here, don’t you? ---to manage and replenish the earth.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Home Training


A guy told me a story of how he watched a young man at his church follow an attractive young woman in the hall way to "check her out". He said that it ticked him off that this guy was treating church as a pick-up spot.---Well, I haven't heard of that one at our church, but I've heard of other things that should be highlighted. Since there isn't a guidebook we need to have an avenue to give a little "home training", so I will try it right here for the few readers we have.

Scoot over- when someone looks like that need a place to sit...scoot over.

Be quiet- when the pastor or someone is speaking...be quiet. Show respect. It amazes me how loud people talk when they think they are whispering. You don't know how many times people behind you are disturbed and can't listen because of your noisy antics. Your disturbance might stand between a person and where they spend eternity. (I would say especially during the Invitation, but then again that would make it sound like it was okay at other times.)

Lastly, Don't get up during the service---it doesn't bother me, but I hear people quite often lose touch because somebody got up and walked out during the service. (I'm not talking about someone being sick or serious issues. We're not Legalist.) For goodness' sake lay off the coffee if you can't handle it. For those that have back pain and fear you'll have to get up; you can certainly sit in the back. ---Seriously, this stuff doesn't phase me in the least, but it does phase other people in the congregation...because they tell me about it. ---So, just consider this a little home training.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Clothes Don't Make the Man


Clothes don't make the man. Clothes just help us hide who we really are. On the way to church, I saw folks walking into their church all dressed up. That's fine. But it spurred a thought in my head. How easy is it for man to play dress up? We can cover up and make ourselves look good, when we aren't all together on the inside. (*this doesn't mean you can't dress up for church) When we come before God and our fellow man in truth and honesty, then can real things happen in our lives. Otherwise, we can pretend for our whole lives. We need life transformation, not wardrobe transformation. ---Keepin it real.

Friday, July 10, 2009

True or False Test


Although we try to be all things to all men, so that we may reach some; the cold, hard truth is that all men will not come to the One Way Jesus. While the universal appeal is to all men; Christianity is exclusive in that call. Jesus said, " I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but by me." Peter full of the Holy Spirit says "there is no other name under heaven whereby man must be saved, but Jesus." Jesus was not just a good man or prophet. He wasn't just some wise sage. He is the exact representation of God (so we're told in Scriptures). No where in Scriptures does it claim that he is a way. One Way Jesus is the claim. It's a true or false test. It's not multiple choice. I can't get past the evidence. Jesus is the Way. "The work of God is this, believe in the one He has sent."---Jesus

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

One of Many

Visiting children/families at Sacred Heart Children's Hospital ---just one of the mission opportunities many of our CPR Groups will be doing in the next thirty days. For those that don't know, CPR stands for Care, Prayer, and Relationships--this our adult small groups that meet at various times and places throughout the week. Not only do we study God's Word together and hang out and pray together, we move out from the living room and serve in the community. Other mission opps (and not limited to): helping out at the local Pregnancy Resource Center, helping the elderly and disabled clean up around their homes. ---It is exciting to be God's hands and feet as we go out. What are you doing intentionally in your life for others?

Monday, July 6, 2009

The Wow of Togetherness

Here we are, a week away from agreeing to purchase 35.26 acres of land for LTC. Wow! Not so much that it has taken nine years. Not so much that here we are about to buy land. Not so much a surprise that God found us a great deal. ---But Wow in the sense that, even though the road has been long, God seems to be bringing us to crossing into a new place in the life of LTC--- together.
Let me remind you that this is not The Place. We’ve not arrived. This will be a place for us to minister from. It will serve as our Outpost for Operations. Get excited about it. Get serious about it. Continue to go and make disciples.

Genesis to Revelation

What do you wanna know?
I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say : My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.
From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do.
Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are far from righteousness. I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed.
---God speaking to Isaiah 2,700 years ago.(46:10-13) God is still making history. You can start in the back and read the ending urrr beginning...I guess it's how you look at it.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Never take freedom for granted


With July 4th coming up, I thought I would share a letter from a freedom fighter.
Hello Norman,
Today I am sitting in my office. There is a normalizing sound that permeates my "B" Hut. It is the sound of baby birds chirping. There are baby birds in the wall where my air conditioning unit lines are placed. It's good to hear. It is good to hear because I hear it over all the other strange and awkward noises of a Forward Operating Base (FOB). There is the occasional sound of gunfire. Sometimes it is gunfire from our ranges. Sometimes it is the real deal. There is the occasional sound of an explosion. Usually, that one is real. These aren't as common as you might be thinking, except the gunfire. There is the sound of a huge generator that powers a Pizza Hut next to my office. You might say, "I bet Tim loves that." You would be wrong. I hate Pizza Hut. I don't like pizza, for a later conversation. But, the birds provide me with something different.


I call the baby birds a normalizing and familiar sound for my day. I have heard baby birds before today. I have heard them at home. So, it is like a piece of home in Afghanistan. Now, I don't know if they are chirping in Pashtu. But frankly, I don't even know English bird chirping. So, I cannot say that I am an expert in the chirping linguistics. I am sure that it is Pashtu chirping though. I just know that it isn't annoying like it should be. At home, I would probably try to move the nest; I don't know. It would likely annoy me, but not today. Today it is comforting. It is familiar. It is a slight shift in my perspective.


Another shift in my perspective occurred the other day. You may have read or seen news of the rocket attack in Bagram last weekend. One of my soldiers lost his leg from the knee down. He sustained other injuries. He should be recovering now at another location. Well, I was shaving the next day. My razor had fallen off the case in to my shaving kit. I reached in and grabbed it. I shaved off the corner of my thumb, just a piece. The first thing I thought or said I will leave as a mystery. The second, and almost immediate thought was, "I have my leg." It ceased to even be an issue at that moment.


I stood on the flight line as the FOB Chaplain yesterday as the medevac choppers came in. They unloaded a number of soldiers (Can't disclose details at this time due to Secret policy). I watched them be wheeled to the vehicles and shortly to the Med Station where I met them. They were sons, fathers, brothers etc... I watched over them and prayed for them. As they wheeled them from the choppers to the vehicles, tears pooled around my eyes. These brave me are somebody’s babies, dads.....


I am doing well. But, doing well doesn't mean that I don't feel the pain of those around me. We have just begun. There will be more of this unfortunately. There will also be some great stuff. I spend 99% of my time full and happy about what I do. It is only occasionally that it is hard. So, don't worry about me. I am doing well. I even went to a party last night.


The Afghan Security Guard hosted an event for us last night. I ate the local food and I lived through it. It was actually very good. They played music for us. A group of Afghans danced for us. I eventually joined them. It was a lot of fun. Some of the other officers were dancing with me. I am sure you know that I was acting a fool. We had a great time. Soon, I will have pictures. They will be great.


Keep our soldiers in your daily prayers. We are making a difference here. I spoke with a leader of the Afghan Army last night. He could not stop talking about the changes here. He spoke of hope. He spoke of new days. I see it in their eyes. This ancient, war-torn land has truly tasted what can be. They are determined and hungry for it. From what I gather from my comrades, it is different from Iraq somewhat in that sense. It is fresh, new life for them.


The birds are still chirping. They will chirp for a while, then go. They must lean on their mother right now until they can stretch their wings and fly on their own. Isn't that funny? Maybe, just maybe, Afghanistan will fly one day, all by itself.


Serving the Best Men and Women Today,
CH (CPT) Tim Brown

One More


It's always great to be a part of the process when someone enters into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It's refreshing to see the Holy Spirit draw a person to Himself. It's rewarding to watch the journey from our own vantage point as God takes someone from being an athiest to a believer and follower of Jesus. It's tough to be patient during that time. I am thankful to those that were concerned enough to invite a friend to come and hear the Word. I am grateful to other friends that even gave rides to church. Also, I am thankful for those that were friendly to a stranger. It takes all of us. Now, it will take all of us to disciple the new believer. Praise the Lord! One more has entered the Kingdom...let's join the Holy Spirit in pursuing one more...

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Pay Attention


I will show myself holy among you in the sight of the nations. Then you will know that I am the LORD, when I bring you into the land of Israel, the land I had sworn with uplifted hand to give to your fathers.Ezek.20:41b-42
God has a long-standing promise with Israel. He plans to keep it. He has ordained it. He has no problem stating ahead of time that it is going to happen. And He has no problem in making it happen in the future. God is able. He is the Sovereign LORD of the Universe. ---Something I did not realize before. The land of Canaan was a beautiful, green, fertile land until Israel had committed her many sins against God. She went into the beautiful places and made high-places to worship sticks and stones---false idols. For this, God allowed this beautiful land to be desecrated into a dry and thirsty land. We have known it as a deserted looking land of rock and such. However, it is making a come back. God is preparing the land to bring His people back! Pay attention to the signs! The world can turn its head and act like nothing is going on, but God will show Himself holy amongst Israel in the sight of the nations! Be careful to not get side-tracked with North Korea, the economy, Iran, civil unions, Iraq, Dow Jones and Hollywood. God will restore the nation of Israel. Why do you think they are still around?

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Ra


Ra (pronounced as Rah, and sometimes as Re) is the ancient Egyptian sun god. By the fifth dynasty he became a major deity in ancient Egyptian religion, identified primarily with the mid-day sun, with other deities representing other positions of the sun. Even today on Sunday mornings in Florida from 10:30-2:00PM some part-time worshipers of the God of the Universe still worship the sun god.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Tough times, the sharpening agent


"Difficult moments can make men mature in ways that age and time can't, ... once you go through some tough times, your focus starts to sharpen and you know what you have to do." ---Mike Singletary, NFL Coach

Honor

Honor one another above yourselves. r12:10. Treat someone as if they are more important than you. That is all part of dying to one's self. It is part of how we show love to one another. "All men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another."---Let's get off our can and live for Him who died for us! Drop the excuses. You either are a Christian or you are not. If someone had to guess by your lifestyle...what would they say about you....you are or your not???

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Bonus Round


Have you ever had a near death experience? Most people have whether they know it or not. But there is a true near death experience that I missed out on that has not only changed my life; it has drastically changed my eternal destination. For I was dead in my sins until Christ saved me. The wages of sin is death, and that is what I had due me. Yet God saved me once and for all. Jesus paid the price on the cross, and He is my Redeemer. I am alive, because I am alive in Jesus. I am now living in the Bonus Round. Everything is gravy from here on out. Those like me should live our lives like we are racking up points in the Bonus Round. God's grace has allowed me such a life. I need to live like a man that has been rescued and living in Extra Time. I was lost, but now I am found.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Put it on


Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's scheme. e611 The word for scheme here transliterated from the Greek is methodeia. Can you see it? METHOD. He has a method he works on you to take you down. We could call him crafty and sneaky, but that's not true at all...is it? Because he uses the same old thing on you and me. We see it coming. He doesn't even have to hide in the dark or get tricky with his method. Unless...unless we get serious and put on the full armor of God, and then we can stand (not fall) against his scheme or method. Our real battles (as Christians) are not with people. Our battle is with rulers, authorities and principalities of this dark world and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm. Put on the full armor of God. That is the only way to prepare for an unseen enemy.Don't let him get sloppy. At least make him work for it.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Communicate Now


"It's all about the kids."---brrnnnn-wrong. It's all about the couple...which is all about the marriage...which is all about the family. If the couple relationship breaks, the family crumbles; and if the family crumbles, then the kids suffer the most. YOU DO NOT COMMUNICATE BETTER AFTER DIVORCE. Communicate now, if you really care about the kids.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Thanks for the Surprise


So, I had to wait a couple of days to collect my thoughts. Our kids threw a surprise 25th Anniversary Party for us. I don't feel worthy yet, because we still have a couple more months to go to be officially 25 (I think we'll make it though). I want to thank them for surprising us[Brittany, Josh, Melanie, Jordan]. I want to thank their mother for raising such good kids. I thank the Lord Jesus for being the center of our relationship and being the very glue that has kept us together. Teresa is a good woman, and I am blessed to have her. And I do thank God for my parents who set the standard thus far with 52 years of marriage.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Out of the Fire

Working my way through Daniel--into chapter 3. I guess it was too much for King Neb to learn in the previous chapter that he was a bigshot. So, he has this huge 90'x90' statue built and commands all the people to bow before it when the music plays. However, there were 3 young men on location that had character, morals, Someone they believed in. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego would not bow down and worship this man-made image. They were outed by some locals (that probably were jealous of their position). ----I think this story isn't told enough because it is almost too amazing. When God really shows off like this, people seem to disbelieve. So, why should He show off? Anyhoo---The 3Boyz are brought before the king who sentences them to be tossed into the fiery furnace which he has turned up 7x's hotter than usual. Just in case, someone years later would say it wasn't a real fire...it was not a literal fire, the Scripture tells ust that the brave, strong soldiers that tossed the 3boyz into the fire were burnt to death. "...what God will be able to rescue from my hands?"-v.15 King Neb found the answer to that shortly. He saw four men, not three walking around in the fire. Astonished, he yelled for the 3 to come back out. They came out of the fire unhurt, not even smelling like smoke. Yeah, God showed off. Their faith and God's work didn't necessarily make King Neb a believer, but it did capture his attention; and he gave respect to their God (at least for the moment. Memories are so short.) What fire has God brought you out of, and you forgot about it? Stop and thank Him today. More importantly, live for Him like the Boyz.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Winning Streak


The Colorado Rockies have won 11 Games in a row. That is pretty hard to do. I listened to the new coach explain what was happening. He said that before the streak some guys were doing what they were supposed to be doing, but others weren't pulling their weight. Now that the ones that were slacking have started coming around, good things are happening. Now, they are just feeding off of each other. They are winning. It's not so much different for church. If the slackers (yeah I said it) would step up and do something, then some crazy things would start happening. Good things. Don't look around and play the blame game. Do your thing, and encourage others to step it up. Read the Book, we win! Live like a champion. Championship teams have teammates, not gripers. Don't gripe, Jesus didn't.