Devoted

In Acts 2:42 The early followers of Jesus devoted themselves to the teachings of the apostles, and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. What followed? Awe, wonder, needs were met and real friendships were made. I think there is a difference between fellowship and friendship. I believe the "breaking of bread" speaks to friendship rather than acquaintances. This along with devoted prayer are missing ingredients to most churches today. In the end (Acts 2:47) we see the people praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people in the community. We also read that the LORD added to their number daily those who were being saved.
DEVOTION is what is missing at most churches today. Often we are half-hearted to the teachings, fellowship, eating and prayer. Consequently, little is happening and the watching world is confused; because if we really believed we would live differently! *IT was such devotion that was turning the world upside down (Acts 17:6). Olympic athletes are devoted. Top students are devoted. Real lovers are devoted. Real Christians need to be devoted to the teachings, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Most churches try to do this through Sunday School, small groups in homes are on a church campus in some fashion. It won't be for real until the people are genuine (take off the masks) and truly devoted. Maybe this year's resolution could be to properly place your devotion. If so, get ready for the awe, wonder, and a fresh breath of life.

Who?

We've got a new year coming up, and that makes us think about restarts or restops. We like to stop something we said we were going to stop last year, but picked back up month one, two or some where along the way. We have things that we were going to start and dropped in month one, two or some where along the way. You get my drift. We're people and that's how we roll. ---One thing that is important for followers of Jesus (specifically) is the idea of helping someone else grow in the faith. Perhaps someone helped you, and if they didn't chances are you wish now that someone had helped you grow spiritually. ---Look around. Who is someone that you could help grow in the faith this year? We should be intentional about that. I've got a guy I'm discipling right now, and it is just as much for me as it is for him. We had a great time this morning going through Scriptures that we read the week before in our own respective quiet times. It was unbelievable, as we had to watch the clock and still went over and would probably still be talking and praying from what we gathered from God's Word. Indeed, iron sharpens iron. We learn what God is teaching the other through life and Scriptures. Deeper growth and life transformation is certainly taking place slowly but surely. We're not speed-reading the Bible. We're stopping at the places God speaks the loudest and listening. We're chewing those passages like a cow chewing cud...slowly getting every bit of nutrient and taste out of God's Word. ---But if there wasn't a Who, then we both could easily be distracted and consequently not being nourished for such growth. --- So who will you disciple in 2011? It is as much for you as it is for them.---Don't be a dead-beat Christian. Share.

Good Samaritan

Loving the neighbor (who is sometimes someone you don't care for) is the tough part of love. He literally had to care for someone he wouldn't even like in normal circumstances. That is part of our every day challenge. It is risky. But it is the kind of love God has shown us through Jesus. If we want to ever grow, we must love like this. Yes, it calls us to die to self.
---Lk.10

Large Group

Much is said about Jesus sending out the Twelve disciples, but little attention is given to the larger group Jesus also had following him. In Luke 10 we read where Jesus gave some simple instructions to send the 72 out in pairs ahead of him preaching and healing. He told them to pray for help, and take nothing with them, and don't greet anyone along the way (stay focused on the mission at hand; don't get distracted and off course). Give the message about the Kingdom of God being near to those that would listen, and leave behind the ones that don't want to hear it. Woe to them if they reject the message! These miracles were signs that the kingdom of God was near. *These guys were ecstatic that even the demons submitted to them in the name of Jesus. Jesus was happy for them, but also sent a subtle reminder (perhaps he sensed pride welling up in them for this ability); he told them that he had seen Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Implications: Jesus had been around. Satan fell because of pride. Suggestion: rejoice that your names are written in the Book of Life in heaven, not that you cast some demons out.---Stay low. Stay humble. Know that whenever we do something great in Christ; it is done in Christ, not us. Pride goes before a fall. ---Jesus spent some time with the large group. There were more than twelve followers of Jesus. The Son chooses to whom he will reveal the Father to. Wrap your brain around that. ---Thank God your name is in the book. Read Luke 10:1-24

The Whole Neighborhood Was Blessed

As I sat and listened to David Crowder sing "You Are My Joy" on itunes, I looked away from the Bible I had before me and reflected on the mess in my room. Wrapping paper and "not-yet" wrapped gifts surrounded me. It reminded me of a conversation I had with a friend recently. If indeed there were as many as a thousand people in the Magi Caravan that came to visit the toddler Jesus, there had to have been a ton of gifts. They were ecstatic to be welcoming the new baby king to the world. Of course, we have the three gifts mentioned that were symbolic of King, Priest, Savior. But surely with the massive excitement of this caravan came many gifts. My friend posed the question, "What do you think Mary and Joseph did with all the gifts?" Wow. I was stunned. I thought I knew every thing (just kidding). Surely, we don't know for sure; but I'm betting it was looking good for the neighborhood that had been kind to the poor newlyweds. When Jesus comes around, flowers bloom, people are healed, resurrected! Some noise is made. Angels made noise in the fields before the shepherds. The Magi made a dusty trail from the East. ---Lights are on roofs, around the hedges, families get together, people are nicer, closets are stashed with gifts, mommas are baking goodies...the landscape is transformed because something huge happened 2000 years ago. ---Don't miss out. God sent Angels to announce what He already had in print...He has spoken to people through dreams...and all this Scripture was fulfilled in public. ---Herod and the religious Jews weren't even curious enough to follow the caravan to see Jesus. Instead, they expected them to come back to tell them what they should have already known.---It is worth checking Jesus out. HIsStory is the only one filled with mystery and wonder that is true. ---And once you know Him, you and your house will be blessed...and hopefully your whole neighborhood.

4 Quarters

There are so many sports analogies that are good applications for life: finish strong, prepare, work hard, give it all you've got, do the fundamentals well, etc. It's always amazing to see when one team is really winning big early in the game, even to the point that a fan like me yawns or tunes out; but then a fan like me checks back in later just to see...and sure enough the other team has come back from a large margin. Logic says that all the team with the lead had to do was keep doing what it had been doing and coast in for the win. That is exactly why so many coaches of losing teams preach to their team that they have to play 4 quarters or all 60 minutes. Games are won and lost in the last quarter or seconds even. You have to play to that last whistle. So what happened to that team (the one that lost that huge lead)? ---It's the same thing that happens to us, when we lose daily battles to sin (no matter how little or big it may seem). We start going through the motions of life...we stray from the basics...the fundamentals...we forget our purpose...we fall back to our default status; and default status is almost always about making us happy. These guys start shooting the ball to pad their stats (or in football start taking it easy), and forget the team game that gave them the big lead. As Christians we temporarily take our eyes off the prize and seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and live for our kingdom and look to our own righteousness. ---Break your day down. When does the tempter come calling? Surely it is different for all of us. I know for me I need to start slowly, stay steady and finish strong. Focus on Jesus and keep healthy spiritual habits, because the enemy doesn't take breaks; plus we're capable of taking breaks on our own and resetting to default status. And our default status is all about us. Keep your status: in relationship with Jesus Christ. Finish!

Great Message Amanda

It was great having Amanda Phillips come and share from her 2yr. jouneymen stint in Africa. Wow! It was incredible to hear how God saved her, called her to this mission and worked everything out. We were reminded to stay flexible to God's plan. We were reminded that God can do all this stuff without us. He had been working in dreams and speaking to people well before she got there. We were reminded of God's great power as He used these young ladies to get His Word on cassette to a people that didn't even have a written language. We were reminded that it takes more than living the Christian life; we have to open our mouth and tell the Good News! ---To those that ask the question "What about the people that have never heard?" we had confirmation from Amanda's story that even in a remote area God has ways and means to get the Good News out, whether it be through dreams or other messengers.---Oh yeah, this wasn't mentioned...In the midst of her obedience to the calling, Amanda met the guy of her dreams...she was recently engaged to her man. All this and more as she was faithful. Congrats Amanda and Andrew!

Secret Ambition

Growing up, I played a lot of baseball, so there is no wonder that I would have an ambition of playing MLB. In my high school years I polevaulted on our track team. There was no wonder I fantasized about going to the Olympics in that sport. Then we go to college, we get married and we can often fall into the trap of just trying to make it...leaving any kind of dreams behind...just getting by without any ambition. Life happens. Ambition can be a good thing or a bad thing. It can serve to motivate, or we can serve it. Reading an article made me pause and consider my ambition. Life changed when God called me to preach. My ambitions have become His ambition, the two are forged together as one. Is the ambition for the biggest, greatest church? This is where ambition can get dangerous. If it is about something that says "look at me", then ambition has run afoul. After thinking about this one, I would have to say that God has called me out of my comfort zone, and my secret ambition is to help call other people out of their comfort zone into the place God designed them for in the first place. What is your ambition? Did you give up on it? Did you get side-tracked? Think about it.

11.15 Devo

(KJV) Mark 1:17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.
* The call is to forsake this life and it's trappings and become fisher's of men. JB pointed to JC from the beginning of his ministry. JC preached to the Jews, knowing they would reject Him. He was faithful, even to death on the cross.---A call to ministry is not a call to the "easy" life. 
How can we relate?

Devo 11.13.10

(KJV) Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered
*JC learned obedience thru suffering.
V.12 by now some of you ought to be teachers, but you are still drinking milk.
V.14 Strong meat belongs to the mature...those that are using what they have learned. 
* Life applicators are the mature, not the book worm! Take what you have learned, received, heard and seen and put it into practice.Ph.4:9
* Have you grown since your spiritual birth? Maybe you think so. Are you an arguer or complainer?
Phil.2:14-15 says shine,don't whine. Obedience is part of growing up.

Reflections at a Wedding

Sitting in a large sanctuary. Carpet outdated. Wondering how many people left the church when they picked that color. Haha, but then again some may have. I sat and took note of the size of the sanctuary and the dollars invested in audio/video technology; I couldn't help to think that a bunch of people had gotten together enough to spend some serious money. Cool. Ten years into church, I've seen the tough decisions that have to be made. Even though we might not do things like this church, I respect what they've done. I respect what the small church I passed on the way is trying to reach out to their community with a fish fry. It's hard to do church. Churches come in many sizes and shapes, but ultimately they will have some of the flavor of the pastor and staff that lead. Go church! Do what you do the way God made you.---Again, I said I was at a wedding. I looked and listened as the young couple blissfully stated their vows with all the teary eyed witnesses glued in. As a pastor that has performed, officiated, whatever you want to call it weddings; I couldn't help to think how true these promises will ring ten, twenty years later after doing life together. We can only pray it will be so. Yet, I sat very aware of what work couples have to put into marriage. Respect to those that have been married ten, twenty, thirty, plus years---Go couples! I'm happy for the couple getting married. It was great to be a part of two weddings (unofficiating) back to back weeks...good kids...doing it the right way. ---Did I say may kids were part of these weddings? I'm proud of them too. I guess I'm getting sentimental since I'm only a few years away from getting cheap coffee at Hardees. I'm thankful for my wife, who has not only endured me, but the life of being a pastor's wife. Go Teresa! ---Well, better get to seeing why that dryer isn't working...Take time to reflect....and cut people some slack...know they are just trying to make it.

Quittin' on God

I didn't see the program,nevertheless it bugged me. A friend told me one of the networks had two pastors ( They hid their identity, so I don't know if they were still pastors), on the nightly news saying they didn't believe in God anymore. One would think, how could such happen? How is one de-converted? It is really not that uncommon among young people. So what's up with that? I was moved as I read Hebrews 3. Under Moses Israel failed to believe. These people saw God do crazy, unbelievable miracles ...they were a long for the ride, but many still did not believe. (read the Exodus) Many saw the miracles of Jesus and still did not believe. (KJV) Hebrews 3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.* true believers are the only ones that will be saved...the only ones that will enter heaven.
How do we know if someone is saved? Only God truly knows. Fruit and perseverance would be signs to us, but only God knows.
How did these pastors now come to renounce their faith? A renounceable faith is no faith at all! They never had true faith. Life can eat at you, and will eat at you unless you truly give it all over to God. We are not on a planet of perfect people. Thus, our faith will be tested: is it real or not? Are you truly saved? Go from hope so to know so today---look up 1 John 5:13.

Commitment to a Regular Experience of Prayer

It is good to reexamine our thinking at times. I'm pretty big on urging people to pray regular, and have often pushed that a starting point is first thing in the morning. This comes much to the dismay to those "night owls." Well, I've been challenged to rethink in some of my reading. Sure, King David wrote about praying first thing in the morning in the Psalms (maybe it was when he was a shepherd). However, some people have jobs where they get up at an ungodly hour, and some people are distracted by early commutes and crazy traffic.Parents with new babies will also have a challenge for a season (they will eventually sleep like normal human beings!). For those that have an easier morning, or a lengthy lunch break perhaps regular experiences of prayer come in a daily fashion. But some people may find that they have to wait until nighttime or perhaps a lengthy experience of prayer on the weekend. No matter how you do it, just be sure you enjoy the regular experience of prayer with the God who loves you. Don't answer the phone, texts or knocks on the door at these times.

God is a jealous God

Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God [am] a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth [generation] of them that hate me--Exodus 20:5
This is a key verse to Oprah's theology. She is upset by this commandment, and so her view of God is tainited. The problem is her misunderstanding of Scripture and her high value of herself and mankind versus the higher value of God. She is bothered by the parts "jealous God...and...visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon thier children..." But she does err not understanding Scriptures. What a shame, because she has to be a somewhat intelligent woman to get where she is. First of all, God is jealous "for us", not "of us". He loves us and does not want us to go chasing after false gods, because He knows that is not good for us. We can make a bag of rocks, pot of gold, keg of beer, whatever our god. God knows that none of those things will satisfy us. God is not a tyrant. He lets us chase those foolish things (freewill). But this Father knows best, hence He does not want his children bowing down and serving false-no-good-gods. God cares. Secondly, God knows as the parents go, so the children generally will go; and thus too will a nation go. History bears that out. Look how nations are known as Christian, Muslim, Catholic, etc. God does not make them that way; it is the way of their choosing and passing down. To be against God is a dangerous thing; so He warns. Is their chance for the children to turn to Him? Of course, all through the Scriptures that invitation exists. Oprah doesn't concentrate on the words "those who hate me." God's judgment does not fall on those who love him, but rather those who hate him. What does one expect when he/she disobeys authority? If you hate the Creator of the entire Universe then God says bad things are going to happen. It's not a warning, it is a promise. Only those who think too highly of themselves have the arrogance to tell God how to run his world. ---In contrast, the next verse says that God offers mercy to the thousands that love him and keep his commandments. ---Do we get mad at the stove when we touch a hot element? I dont' think so. ---This is a non-issue. The message is clear: be on the right side of God. God is jealous for you. He loves you. Be comforted in those words today.

Joy

Joy. It gives me great joy, when I hear about the positive things happening in the church, because people are engaged in serving Jesus. People are picking up the mantle and serving. People that have been through our Parenting class are now leading a parenting class. Awesome! Our Soul Sisters have answered the call of the Band of Brothers. Our college groups are busting at the seam. Thanks to all of you that have made an "all in" commitment. I can't keep up with all of it. :)

The Dark Night of the Soul

The Dark Night of the Soul...that is what it has been called by theologians. ??? Have you ever had that time when you were spiritually dry even when you were doing all the "right" things? If you have grown to any stage of spiritual maturity you have had this experience, and could not explain it. You may have played the blame game. Truth is ...it happens to all of us at one time or another. The only cure is to persevere in spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, assembling with saints and so on. Endure until you have a breakthrough and come out on the other side. So stay tuned into God, plugged into your church until that next Fresh Wind and Fresh Fire arrive!

The neXt Great Spiritual Awakening

The last great spiritual awakening in America took place in 1857 beginning in New York of all places. By spiritual awakening I mean many people unexplainably turning their lives over by giving their hearts to Jesus. Since then there have been attempted movements that have been quickly put out like a small fire by egos and pettiness of men. ---There is a reason all real spiritual awakenings begin in prayer. In prayer we come humbly before God. We die to self. We don't care what anyone thinks. We submit to the Father who has the answers and the power. In prayer we come with a contrite heart and that is the kind of heart God desires and can work with.---That 1857 Awakening began in prayer initially by one man. He invited 1000's with fliers, but when the time came; he was by himself. He prayed. Then some came late...just a handful, but some. The next week a few more, and so the next and then things caught on fire across the nation. ---We'll you join me and others in persistent prayer that God would hear our prayers, and send the neXt Great Spiritual Awakening. I've been asking you to pray morning, noon and night. Just do it! There is a flicker of light as across this country a small rumbling of prayer warriors are rising up. Be part of the neXt Great Spiritual Awakening. ---Other choices: sleep through it, hinder it, be distracted by the cares of this world. I think we've slept too long, the church even has been a hindrance to the real deal, and the distractions (attractions) have kept us from God's great desire to show us His glory! Pray on your own, start or find a prayer group near you. No excuses.

How does one reject the righteousness of God?

Many people think there is more than one way to heaven. They reject the claim of Christ that there is one way (John 14:6). Jesus tells a parable about a wedding invitation that is sent out (see Matthew 22). Verse 5 says "But they paid no attention, one went off to his field and another to his business." The invitation was sent, but many were too busy. So many shunned the invitation to the wedding of the prince, that the king invited all who would come. At the wedding feast a guy showed up not wearing wedding clothes, and the king had him cast out.---There will be people thinking "I'm right with God on my own..." "me and God have an understanding..." "Surely there are many ways to God..."---Not so according to Scriptures. God wants to clothe us. I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (Isaiah 61:10)Those who are trying to establish their own righteousness before God are like the man who though he could clothe himself. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. (Romans 10:3)---common sense: to get where God is one should follow God's path, not their own. For God made him who knew no sin to be made sin for us so that we could be made the righteousness of God.(2Cor.5:21) When you reject Jesus Christ as Savior you reject the righteousness of God (wedding banquet clothes). Don't get tossed!

The Godmobile...what is it?

Godmobile- a pretty intimidating name for an 8x8 box (trailer). It's the size trailer for maybe selling hotdogs or cotton candy out of at the local Fair. However, we aren't selling anything out of this trailer. It's free. Pat Butler calls it the "longest ride at the Fair". LTC members have been voluntarily sharing Jesus without fear at local Fairs for five years now. There have been over 500 professions of faith. In the past, we have used a two question test to evaluate one's spiritual condition before plainly sharing the Gospel with people. Typically some seasoned veterans (sometimes newbies) will sit on the inside and share the Gospel via the Scriptures, while greeters try to woo the passer-byer to come and take the two question test. We also have people prayer walk the grounds.---We are changing things up this year. We are going to give away an ipod by drawing from names of those that register. So the draw is the gift, but we will take that opportunity to converse spiritually with those that come. We have some pictures that describe life, that will give us a lead to share Jesus. Goal: engage in spiritual conversation, and let God do what He just naturally does. We might be telling someone about Jesus for the first time. We may just help get people thinking about the brevity life and God. Who knows, we may win some to Christ that night. Whatever, we've got the Good News and it has to be told. Your part: come check it out, participate, but surely pray hard.

Under the Circumstances

So often people reference their plight in life with "under the circumstances." For example, under the circumstances I can't complain or under the circumstances I'm not doing too bad. In Christ, we are not under any circumstance...no weapon formed against us will prosper, we are seated in the heavenlies with Christ, there is no condemnation to those that are in Christ Jesus. Hello! It is high time as followers of Jesus we wake up. We win...we've won! We need to be bubbling over with joy for we are under no circumstances, because Jesus has paid the bill! This is what prompted Paul to write his happy letter to the Philippians while he was in jail. He said, For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. He may is well have said, For to me, to live is Christ and to die is Christ. I'm just fine thank you. I am not under any circumstances, because that would presume my God is unaware of my location and condition; and He has the numbers of my head counted. So, get out of the chains. Live for Him who died for you and was raised again...do it today. And tell someone why you have that stupid smile on your face! :)

Bad Fish, Good Fish

The Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishermen's net dropped into a lake that caught a bunch of fish. After a full catch the fishermen pulled the net ashore, and emptied the net. The good fish were kept and the bad fish were thrown back. [Fortunately, God determines the good and bad...He knows the difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to fish in the Bay. We threw the bad fish (catfish) back. They were easily identifiable. However, we (by law) had to throw the good fish that were just undersize back. This was tricky, because we had to hold a live fish still to measure them (keep the fish alive and not cut us in the process). But God knows.] Jesus said that it would be like this at the End of the Age. Angels will separate the wicked men from the righteous and throw them (the wicked) into the fiery furnace where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. <-- This is not a popular message, but these words came out of Jesus' mouth. Believe while you can. Tell others while you can. There is a day coming, and God knows if you are faking.
Matthew 13:470-50

Five Good Minutes on 10.11

Micah 7:18 Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.
* There is noone like you Lord. You forgive the sins of your children. Your anger does not last forever. You delight in mercy. ** This is so overlooked by your ungrateful children. Father forgive me. Even as I say those words I am comforted because I know you did. Done deal ! Lord in our trek to be like you allow us to delight in mercy for others the way you do for us.
*Jared reminded many yesterday to at the very least start your day with 5 good minutes with God. Read His Word. Listen. Apply.

People Are Amazing

People are amazing. It's funny how we will get down on people, because of the stupid things they (we) do. Sometimes we feel like things would be better if we were all alone. We forget, and then we are reminded as we see people at their best. If it were not for two good friends Teresa and I would have missed out on wonderful boat ride, good time fishing, watching dolphins and a gorgeous sunset this weekend. If it were not for seven of our young men and women from church this weekend, a local organization that helps the homeless would have missed out on getting some much needed work done. If it were not for faithful partners in ministry at Living Truth, we couldn't even have church on Sunday at the level we currently experience. People are the most amazing when they mimic Jesus. Do for others. Make someone smile. Make someone else's life easier by picking them up.

Word for the Day

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
* God with us is the sign that David's kingdom would not be conquered. God has a relationship with His people that includes protection and provision. Over and over His people are told to fear not. Over and over His people are told to trust in the Lord.
Trust Him today.

Pleased

It was a great day(putting it mildly)! I was a spectator, participant at the morethanmarried conference. Our guy (Discipleship Pastor: Andy DeGuire) did the bulwark with a great supporting cast involving Living Truth members and Pine Terrace Baptist(our mother church) members. It was special to watch the two churches work together. I know other churches in the association made contributions, but these two hosted and did the set up and put up. Travis did a great job stepping in for Andy. Kudos! It was great to be in my seat...as God pointed out to me how I used to be a member at PTBC, now I was just a pastor sitting back watching people from a church that didn't exist 10 years ago come up in that place and lead. God can use anybody. How great is our God! (not a question...a fact!)
All of that with icing on the cake---a surprise for all of us as Heidi and Andy walked in to a standing ovation! There is not enough room to tell any of God's stories in one blog, but go to caringbridge.com and search 4heidi deguire if you don't know the rest of the story.
We have a ways to go, but today :)

Tuned Out

I'm hearing about more and more people ditching cable and other high-priced connections for tv. Getting debt free has been certainly part of it, but too high cost for too little options is part of it. It's funny how their are so many channels, so many options, but very little that the average person even cares to watch. The powers that be...those that provide tv are tuned out to what people want to see. Of course, they are doing us a favor, because many have realized they have been wasting time watching junk. ---They are not the only ones out of tune. Politicians are scrambling to see what the American people want, but seem to ignore the obvious signs as they continue to cram legislation down our throats like we don't know what we want. Consequently, the people are tuning out to politics.--- Then what are we tuning into?

Just Hate It

A problem with Western Christianity in the 21st Century has to do with the distance we keep from sin. First of all, we don't have a healthy hatred for sin. I am not talking the type of hatred formed from legalism. A lot of people with church background don't do "anything" (much) wrong; but they don't do anything (much)right either. More and more Christians are wanting to serve the Lord faithfully these days; but they dip their toes in the edges of sin every now and then. We've lost sight of what sin is. It is not alright to be sexually immoral or to have a hint of sexual immorality associated with us. We are to get a job, so that we can help others. We are not to engage in obscenities and foolish talk. Too many Christians walk the edge in these matters. Enough is enough! We've got the ipad, the iphone, the itunes and "the itouchsin". The Bible says to run the other way. When you see a video or hear a joke that does not glorify Christ...don't laugh anymore. Turn and run. We are not long for this world. We are not of this world. Live like it. Then, the world might see the difference they were waiting for, and have an actual reason to follow Christ. ---If you aren't near smelling or touching distance of sin, you won't do it. ---Just hate it! Meditate on Ephesians 4&5

Got talked out of it

I try to stay up or at least just a step behind the tech world. Yeah, I tweet, FB, and blog just to communicate with those that network that way. I've been a few steps behind with my phone. I'm still carrying that "razor". Remember, when it was the "new" thing. So, I have been patient fighting off terrorist attempts (advertisements) to get me to buy the latest and greatest IPhone or Droid. But I got talked out of it. No offense or judgment to those that have upgraded, but a person that isn't so tech-savy pointed some things out to me that impacted my thinking. He pointed out the bad things (the evils) of the internet and the abilities of these new phones. While I don't wholeheartedly agree with casting out new technology because what is used for good can also be used for evil; I don't think we can let those who are easily influenced (children and adults that act like children)by evil have such easy access. ---It's too easy to accidentally click on pictures and sites that aren't so holy. Such pics don't show up on my "no-data" plan razor. ---I don't expect to change anyone else's mind, but please think before you give your kids access to evil without filters. God bless.

Gotta Hate It

Hear.
Heard about it.
Someone bragged about it.
Someone glorified it.
So you tried it.
See.
You caught a glimpse.
Someone showed you.
Someone talked about it.
You looked on purpose.
Taste.
Everyone was doing it.
Someone said it was cool.
Someone said it would grow on you.
So you tasted.
Sin starts some where.
Some loser brags about it to bring another loser on board.
People try to make it look cool so they won't feel so lonely and like they got sucked in.
Unless you have a real purpose in life, you cave in; because that's what wanderers do.
Sin. I hate it.
As a Pastor, I (along with family members) are left to pick up the pieces. Sin will take you farther than you wanted to go; keep you longer than you wanted to stay; and cost you more than you wanted to pay.
Have a purpose- truly love God. This is your best defense, when misery comes knocking because it wants company.
Hate sin. You gotta hate it. Turn and run or stay and pay.
Those that are truly "in Christ" are the only ones that will be cool forever.(Eph.2:8-10)
Hell is not cool.

Six Guys

I went to lunch recently with a guy, and the discussion about the morethanmarried.com conference came up. Not long into the conversation he started telling me about a friend calling him up and telling him "you're never going to believe what happened to me." Uh-oh! Before he even told me, I started shaking my head...another divorce. He said the guy didn't even see it coming. His wife started another account, took money out of the safe deposit box, etc. It was nasty. He followed that up with generalities about another guy. All of these with more than 20 years invested in a marriage. He said most, if not all of the guys would be willing to try to work things out; but the women were done. (completely aware there are two-sides to every story). One guy (in the midst of the divorce) was out doing his favorite hobby, when he realized he had been doing that twenty-something years to the neglect of his bride. With disgust (with himself) he picked up his "toys" and went home full-well knowing this neglect of time was the major contributing factor. Why 20 years? Duh. After the kids are gone! Life has been going fast. We've been on the same team, and now that common denominator is no longer around. As a pastor, I couldn't really share those stories, but I hear tons of marriages on the brink. Men: WAKE UP! You married for better or worse; but the problem is many men have given the worst of their time to their soul mates. I can say it because I am one: men are selfish creatures by nature. ---For the love of God, for the love of your mate; do whatever it takes to win her back now, before it's too late. ---Ladies: give that pig-headed man you fell in love with years ago a chance. He is by nature a very stupid creature when it comes to understanding you. If he is trying, cut him some slack; because he is trying to defy nature.
If you get this in time go to morethanmarried.com. There is a marriage conference a bunch of us are going to on Saturday September 25.

Thought

Thought: LTC is a ________ kind of church. What would people say? What would God say? What do we want them to say? Hmmmm.
Some choices: caring, loving, evangelistic, giving, hardworking, follower of Jesus, different; or would they say "They know Jesus at that church."? How can you do your part to shape this congregation?
Some ideas: give God the first five minutes of your day, seriously pray several times a day, obey what you know God wants you to do, faithfully read God's Word, listen, memorize Scripture, meet consistently with other believers, disciple someone else---these are all things we know to do. Just do it. Paul stressed, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death; and so somehow to attain to the resurrection from the dead."---Phil.3:10,11

Small Groups

Therapy. Most people don't want to go to a therapy session, but that is what small group can sometimes be. Our small groups are called CPR (Care, Prayer and Relationships). While this may sound like an advertisment for CPR (small groups), it isn't; it is just the facts. We lived it tonight. It was refreshing. Sometimes in the ebb and flow of life, it seems like we are given too much pain, stress and what-not than seems fair. We've been attacked as a church from multiple fronts. So this week we called on the groups to not do a Bible study, but to pray as a group. What ensued, was awesome. I can only anticipate what will happen in the other groups. The Word of God spoke through various passages to lead us, and we depended on the Holy Spirit to guide us Spirit to spirit. The end result...is yet to happen, because we will continue to wrestle in prayer. However, one person fairly new to the group weeped and praised God with joy for the church. Amen.

Speechless

Speechless...that's what I've been seen the phone call in the wee hours of the morning of 9-2. Our Discipleship Pastor [Andy DeGuire] called with the news that he was at the hospital with his wife who had suffered from a brain aneurysm. (I'll leave it at that for this posting.)Our prayers continue to be with the family, especially considering we don't know the timetable on this healing process. Things are serious and hopeful, nearly a week later. ---Andy is a champion for marriage and the family. He is spear-heading the More Than Married Conference that will be happening on September 25 at Pine Terrace Baptist Church. While he is in B'ham taking care of his wife, I know that he would be most encouraged for couples to commit 9-25 to work on their marriages.

Sometimes

Sometimes it takes all day Monday to process the weekend. We had a great meeting with our ministry leaders on Saturday morning, and then the LTC Kidz went and ministered at the Nursing Home. I love that these kids aren't waiting to grow up to minister, but are doing very effective and much needed ministry right now. And then Sunday...Wow! Great to be together, and atttempt to fathom God's grace. We trust God's Word just does what it does. And then we were flustered early on that morning to hear that part of our "A" Team set up crew: Don and his kids were in a car wreck. We praise the Lord, because from the looks of the demolished car it should have been worse. They are battered and bruised, but should be out of the hospital by tomorrow. Now, we'll see LTC step up and see our friends through this. ---In the midst of all that, it was great to see three of our guys go and minister at the hospital together for the first time. That was pretty cool to reflect on. It's amazing how God has brought a team of people together!

Excuses for not joining

Four reasons people don't join a church:
1. They don't want to learn and grow in the Scriptures.
2. They don't want to obey God's Word.
3. They are selfish and don't want to love God by serving others.
4. They don't recognize that God has given them all that they have, and sure don't want to give any away.

Observation

LT is not a place of people that look just a like. We are not models. We are not cookie-cutter type people. We are just people. Imperfect people. People with pasts. People with issues. We are people just trying to make it. ---Live with compassion for one another.

Where the grass is greener

In Psalm 100 it simply states that we are the sheep of His pasture. Why are we always looking for greener grass? The grass has to be greenest where God is!

Lonely in the Crowd

Not long ago a couple found my wife on Facebook and started just catching up. We knew them in the past, but never really hung out. Well Teresa tells me one night that this couple would like to go out to eat or something like that. Honestly, I went into the mode that I bet a lot of us fall into...I started thinking of why I couldn't do this---not because I didn't want to hang out with them. I think I just knew I would be pretty busy the rest of the week. Yet, all I was going to do that night was chill out (which is cool, we do need to chill at times). But then T told me that they had already asked her a couple of times; so I was like wow (sensing a need). So, I said "sure." Let me preface the rest of the story,by saying I am no-way better than anyone. I just learned something from this that I think too valuable to not pass along. I believe it is a core problem with our culture. From our discussion that night, I gathered that they have been around a good group of people for 10to15 years, and seemed to have no friends. I've got to admit, that when this hit me I was heart broke for them; and God did what only God can do, and pointed out to me that this is way too common in our society. These were good people that like to do fun stuff,yet no one from their "crowd" truly knows them. I thank God that they took a proactive step by getting us off the couch and out of the house. People, we all need friends. Are there people in your crowd that are lonely? Look out for them. Give up a "chill" night and hang out. It won't kill you, and it may save someone else. And who knows...you might make a friendship! Friendships are essential to real life.

Unimportant

Go away for 7 days and the world doesn't completely cave in. Most pastors (who aren't normal people by the way)fear taking a vacation whether they admit it or not. They feel like the flock needs to be held and cuddled continually. Yet, the pastor will go crazy if he doesn't get out of "dodge" every now and then. AHHHHHHH. It was good to be away, and God was gracious enough to not let everything fall apart (not that I know of anyway...just don't tell me). I've got to admit, this time away came at just the right time for Teresa and me. I was getting stressed and feeling the wounds of combat; and I didn't even know it. Thanks church for "stepping up" and letting us relax. ---Old sarge is back though...so pray hard, and let's go. Love ya. It is a privilege to serve the LORD with folks that want more than the status quo.

Vacation

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm not supposed to be near a computer on vacation, but...you know how that is. I'm really trying to relax and chill; and am doing pretty good at that. Even though I did all I could to prevent problems from arising Sunday, I really wasn't worried about it, because we do have a great team of people that goes deep. (even with many out of town) I've heard Jared did great in his debut sermon. I figured he would, if he preached from his heart. Sunday is great, but it still is more about what we do the other six days of the week. So take that sermon and any other sermon you hear to heart and apply to life. Pray hard this week. Get to know God through His Word. And go! Say "yes to the what." Do what God tells you in prayer and from reading His Word. ---Couldn't help the above.---Vacation: Have you ever noticed when you are out of town and you people watch? The people you see remind you of people back home. Even though you are miles away and trying to chill, you are still reminded of home.

Week N Review

What an incredible week last week! We ended up with over 50 + LTC man/woman hours loving Jesus by serving our community in meeting the needs of people that needed help. Work was done by men and women inside and outside. This doesn't even count the home and hospital visits people made that encouraged others. ---Meanwhile, our LTC Kidz summer team has been doing their thing with the Fun Fridays.---And then comes Sunday. It was a time of great refreshment for me, as I and we as a church repented of our lack of devotion to prayer to our Great God. It was great to see the church stand as one. I really believe that along with loving God and people as outlined by God's Word will be the catalyst to turn this community right side up!---Remember those two things this week: Love God and people; be devoted in prayer.

Imitators

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
Make no mistake, my justification comes thru the shed blood of Jesus. It is wholly his work. Therefore my salvation is by grace. I am saved from the wrath to come due to sin. My hero is Jesus Christ. All other heroes are imitations.

What if Ants Got it?

This is crazy, but I was thinking what if ants "got it"? Bear with me. Ants are creatures that are very organized. Ants are hard-workers. They lift way over their own body weight. They can travel to places humans and animals can't get to. They can go through the cracks in walls. Some can even kill humans with their bite. ---I was helping another guy remove a tree that had been struck by lightning and we could not get away from all the ants on the ground. Fortunately, they were not interested in eating us. ---But what if they were? What if they figured out that there were a whole bunch more of them than just the two of us. What if they figured out that there is a boat load of them and they could sneak into our houses at night and take over...like in one of those crazy movies? The queen ant could rule the world! I know it sounds stupid, but I actually got this crazy thought in final preparations of my most recent sermon. What if we (believers)actually got it? If we really were devoted in prayer, and if we happily loved God and other people; what would happen? How would the world finally be transformed? Could it help being changed if we only "got it"? Here's to hoping that we will get it. Devote yourself to prayer. Love the Lord God with all your heart, soul and mind; and love your neighbor as yourself. Let's see what happens!

Acts 28 QT

My Quiet Time this morning had me reading in Acts 28. Paul, Paul, Paul...poor guy, he has been beaten, left for dead...what's one more shipwreck before he has the showdown at Rome. ---but this morning as I read, it wasn't so much about Paul, and his "cruise ship" trip to Rome (albeit as a prisoner). God is awesome. He showed that He cared about the people of Malta. God crashed and trashed this ship, so these people (many were sick)could be healed, and most importantly could hear the Gospel truth and come to Christ. ---the ship...God provided another ship, and Paul ultimately landed in Rome with all the other passengers. They all survived the shipwreck even though many could not swim.
*The thing that you and I think are the main thing today, may merely have us in the neighborhood of what God's real main thing is. Look for the opportunity to be part of the healing and saving of people around you today. God isn't in love with ships, cars, planes; but He does love people.

Church being the church

What happens when the church "is" the church? Today we logged at least 12 LT man hours helping out in the community. A single mom needed help in a move...some guys gave of their time (a.k.a. showed the love of Christ). Another damsel in distress needed a large tree removed and a couple of our men stepped up. The opportunity to share the gospel arose, and we did. But the point of all this is not to boast; because we certainly have nothing to boast about, but the LORD. The point is as we go and show the love of Christ even in deed, we are sharing the Gospel. So, go, get out there and just be the church and light up this dark world. Let's lift up the name of Jesus by being the "good guys."

Some thoughts

I'm just taking time out to say thanks. I have been blessed beyond measure. God saved me at a young age and has protected me these many years. But tonight hit a new high . A friend invited me over to try out a new burger which was great. My son -in-law stopped by to hang out and chill. Teresa and I enjoyed that. That was just some highlights. A couple of young moms have stepped up there game at church and are making me proud. Good day.

Sunday Reflection

Spirited day! Mets some new folks, heard great stories from Mission Toledo team. Challenged by Jared. Can Sandra W. juggle...'cuz it seems like she can do everything else. Will be praying for Mark, Kim, Camber and Cooper as they go on mission in Panama. Topping it off... I met someone that said they had hated me for a few years. this person had run into a member of our church, who told them they ought to check with me because the reason they were mad didn't sound like me. PTL! It's always good to check your sources against someone's character. The LORD did a great work... a relationship has been salvaged. I pray for my friend, because...wow three years of hating has to impact a brother or sister. ---Getting back on our knees in prayer is the big message God is pouring on us. We've got several new prayer groups meeting. Recommendation: find one and get in it.
*Do something different this week> God bless.

Hang Out or Work Out

I listened over a year ago on sport-talk radio about how a sportscaster ran into Kobe Bryant at dinner on a Saturday (in the off season). He asked if he wanted to go hang out. Kobe told him no, because he still had to go work out. This guy was so committed to winning that he was disciplined even in the offseason. He couldn't even have a "cheat night" where he didn't work out.---I bring this up, because I was reading where all-star basketball guard Chris Paul tweeted something similar yesterday. It went something like" gotta get my work out in, so I can be the best." What if we were so disciplined as followers of Jesus? What if we were hardcore consistent in our prayer life? What if we were hardcore in studying the Scriptures in a way that we know God more clearly, and grow spiritually? What if we were not content to sit on the bench of Christian service and watch others serve?---Oh, I know everyone that reads my blog is not an NBA fan, but Kobe's team won the NBA championship...he played pretty much the last half of the year with a broken finger on his shooting hand. He had his eye on the prize, and wasn't going to make an excuse.

Your Church in Your City

This is your church. Get involved. I am thankful for several people who have recently gotten more involved. We need you to carry on the ministry that God has put us here for. I don't know about you, but I look toward what I want to see this church look like when our kids and grandkids grow up. I want it to be a hub for the community. Please begin by weeping and praying for our city. Seriously. Take the time to weep and pray for our city. ---Let God break your heart for the injustices and junk that is going on even the idolatry. ---Then serve as God leads.

On Mission

Being on mission is part of life for the follower (disciple) of Jesus. This morning 14 of our folks left for Toledo on mission to a Muslim community. Also one of our folks left for Uganda on mission this morning. Meanwhile A* has a few more months in Africa, while T* serves in Orlando for the summer. ---Pray for these and serve as you go. Thanks to those that have ministered to the baby mama's and families during the birthing process. Blessing to those still working on an engine project. That's just some stuff... much is going on under the radar. Jesus' name is elevated when His peeps do this acts of love in His name.

Idiot

I was thinking about "idiots." My definition of idiot is just people doing really stupid things over and over again. I'm an extremely patient person, but my patience wears thin on idiots. Some of the things people do makes we want to see the reinstitution of flogging in public as punishment. ---Then I think of all the stupid things that I've done over and over again; and become increasingly aware of how awesome God's mercy and grace are. ---So this morning, I pray that one more idiot will turn it all over to God and be reconciled; and enjoy the abundant life that Christ spoke of. There is hope for the idiot(s)...like us. If you are "in Christ" it wasn't so long ago that you were out of sorts...the enemy of God.---Here's to hoping someone comes not to their senses, but to Jesus today!

Too Much Elephant to Eat

I just came to the realization that I will not make it through all of Paul's letters (in my sermons)by the end of the year (even though I left Romans out). Ephesians is coming soon, and I am stoked. There is no way I can do that in the four weeks I had previously planned. It's going to be awesome to see how the Trinity plays a role in the blueprint of the church. Dealing with the subject of predestination will be loads of fun. Challenging us to be God-walkers will be a great opportunity. My favorite will probably be dealing with the consequences of grace. Did you know that there are consequences surrounding the grace of God? Lots more to come...

Run For It

So my dog is a 90lb, 70something year old, chocolate lab. A few months ago, he evidently got sick, and we thought he was going to die. He could barely walk and was shaking and had a dazed look on his face. He made it through that...oh did I mention he has a cataract? Anyway, you get me. He's old. He shouldn't stray from the porch much less the house. But I promise you, if I were to leave the gate open, he would turn into a 14 year old pup and run like the wind. Yet, his food, water and support system is in our backyard. I am his master. But he still will go his own way. I would love to be able to let him come into the front yard unleashed and just hang out. --- Those who are "in Christ" are new creations. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are free to run. But do we sin to show of how awesome and capable God's grace is? Of course not! God has left us unleashed. Unfortunately, we often do leave the yard, and find trouble down the road. ---What if God is proving a point through our lives to the heavenly forces? What if God is saying to them: "Watch my boy, he could run, but he won't because he loves me." ---His (God's) intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.[Eph.3:10] Through the church, the body of Christ (which includes each individual believer)God is revealing that His eternal purpose is found in Jesus Christ.

Be the Church

A guy praying for the salvation of a friend. Gets another guy to join him in prayer. 24 hours later God delivers the man to the guy's doorstep where he can share Jesus.
A single dad is in need for a ride for outpatient surgery and for someone to babysit his daughter. A woman takes him to the hospital, his daughter home with her, goes back and picks him up, and calls another to help out as needed.
A person is home from major surgery, and person after person takes meals to help out the family.
A family needing a little love and care are invited over for dinner, giving way to "famly" time to meet the needs of others.
A couple goes to the Food Bank to give of their time, but tells no one about it; because that's how they roll.
Individuals giving of their time on a regular basis helping out the pregnancy resource center.
A small group help clean up the yard of an elderly person for free.
A small group goes to the Nursing Home bringing good cheer in song and just showing love by giving of time.
A couple of guys give of time doing some mechanic work for the mechanically-challenged.
A man goes and helps people frequently with major appliance fixes.
A college graduate gives two years of her life helping get God's story into the language of people that don't have it.
---I could go on and on, and I might.
*This is just the church being the church.

Temptation of Jesus

Big Picture from Mt.4:1-11
There will be those times of intense, maybe even "unfair" temptation that we go through. In times such as these, perhaps trials is the better word. They are intense, because the enemy won't take "no" for an answer. He knows our buttons and pushes persistently, While he can't force us to believe his lies; he can harass and rattle us; hence checking the foundation of our faith. Will we stand? Also, these special times or seasons of temptation/trials can seem "unfair" because we've already said "no" to these temptations. Yet, satan takes us farther than we wanted to go and we are tempted to things that we normally would not do. In fact, Jesus was all by himself and he particularly could have said "Who will turning this stone into bread hurt? Who will know? Who would blame me? Who would even care?" (Any of those thoughts sound familiar?) He also could have justifed in his mind the other two temptations, except for the part aboaut falling down and worshiping satan. Yet, isn't that what temptation is really all about?----turning our back on God, believing the liar, and hence granting him worship?
In all of this, Jesus means of defense was quoting Scripture at Satan.
---Know God's Word to be empowered. Beleive God's Word to win.
---Know that trials can come intensely and even unfairly (David was a man after God's own heart!)
In the end (v.11) Jesus stood firm. Satan left. Angels came and attended to Jesus.

Nesting

Well, it's getting that time. A couple of soon to be mommies are nesting. How do I know? They are cleaning out rooms in their house and bringing junk...urr...stuff (just kidding, chill out) to the office.

They will know you are mine

Yesterday we had a meeting with our Ministry Outreach team. We are trying to be Jesus' hands and feet to the community; because we believe we need to minister to the felt need of the community before we can fix their real need. It was a pretty long meeting, but I think we got a lot done. We want to be more intentional, and make the name of Jesus famous by our lifestyle of giving hope through service. In the meantime God was so kind to point out to me that we are doing some of this already. ---Just yesterday, a couple of our guys were helping another put an engine in a car. One of our ladies, took a person to the hospital for outpatient surgery, baby-sat, and went and picked the person up from the hospital.---That is love. "They will know you are my disciples, because of your love for one another."--Jesus

Third Try

Mt.4:10
After the third and final temptation on this go around (there would be more), Jesus told satan to go away (beat it, get lost!). Then he quoted Scripture one more time. NOte: Jesus did not use his "God-powers", he simply quoted Bible at satan. The Word of God is a powerful double-edged sword. It is a weapon to be used against satan. This is why memorization is so important. This is why the enemy tempts us to be lazy in hiding God's Word in our hearts. The Scriptures are plain: God is the only object of worship. Worship and service go hand-in-hand.---Hide God's Word in your heart and be armed for battle! The showdown is coming.

Awareness Day

There seems to be a special day for almost any occasion. Let me suggest another: "Awareness Day." This isn't a day where we have to buy lunch or stuff for someone else. It's actually a day of reset. It is a day that we (as followers of Christ) check ourselves. We, who have been raised to life in Christ Jesus, are to set our minds on things above. (see Col.3) A true Christian should be growing in his/her affection for Christ. Periodically, we need to hit the pause button and check our affection for Christ. Do I love Him? Yes, of course, we say yes. But do we show that in how we live our lives? Here's a test (of like, not love but it works). If ice cream and spinach were put before a child to eat, how would we know which one they liked? ---no rocket science there---Would our love for Jesus be as easy to see?
Aight! So you are tracking with me now. On Awareness Day check to see if you are doing the things that stir your affection for Christ. Answer this question: When I am __________ I really feel closer to Jesus. Whatever ______ is, do that! It may be hanging out with a certain believer and talking with them about the LORD. It may be just reading the Scriptures slowly and meditating upon them in a quiet place. It may be listening to music. Here's the deal, on Awareness Day ask yourself what does it for me, and then make sure you are doing that which stirs up your love and affection for Jesus. The good thing about Awareness Day is you set it yourself as often as you like. So how are you and Jesus? What do you need to get back to?

Gather Around

It doesn't take much to gain a gathering. We US Americans will gather around the grill, the football field, the baseball diamond, the movie theater, the shopping mall, etc. We will get together. On occasion there is passion mixed up in our gatherings and together we accomplish much for a person or a cause. ---And then sometimes our gatherings are based on some kind of celebration like the 4th of July. We get immersed in the trimmings of the gathering and completely forget why we do this gathering. Some people were willing to die for what they believed to be true and righteous. Their perseverance has allotted us freedoms and peace that no other country truly experiences. A moment of silence... a time of quiet meditation...a time of prayer would be justified. But what does that do? Really? How about we live up to the standard of truth and righteousness that was worth dying for?---Likewise, my fellow believers how can we just say shallow prayers, and give lipservice to God on Sundays? How about we live for Him who died for us and was raised again?

Raisin Yungins from the NotSoPerfect Dad

Blessed. That is what I am. The old guys at church used to give my kids peppermint candies after church. They stared in amazement that my kids would sit in the second row from the front and not make a peep. At the time, I didn't think much about it. But that time has passed, and I'm not sure if kids today can make it in the second row from the back a whole Sunday morning service. ---Why am I putting myself out here in crazy talk? Well, maybe it will help some young parents. People do ask me all the time, how we raised such good kids. I'm sure what they mean is "well-behaved" kids. None of us are righteous. ---I'm going to keep this simple, because I think it is. Besides having the #1 Mother year in and year out (and that ain't no bologna, Teresa has been an awesome mom to our kids); the next thing would be plain ole discipline from the very beginning. We didn't have to beat our kids or lock them in a closet...heck, we parented before "time-out" was even around. However, we would spank or put them in the corner when necessary. We would not yell at them (absolute no-no! Once you start that you can't stop. A wise man once told me "If you are yelling you are losing.") The key was we started at the beginning. When you tap a child on the hand at the earliest stages that means you don't have to whooop (chill out spelling queen, I meant three o's for effect)them hard when they get older. Earlier is better! Later, Beware! Are you getting me? If you wait too long, you can't whip them hard enough. That is my theory, and I'm sticking to it. Don't take their crap! You are the parent. What you say goes!---I hope this helps. Let me reiterate, I'm only sharing because I've been asked many times. ---In the mean time, there is plenty of time for my kids to screw up...but they are adults now. Here's to hoping they stay true to their God!---Lastly, just to blow my theory to smithoreenes; maybe we just had really, really, really good kids and we had nothing to do with it.---That is a distinct possibility...but all four? Ok, to God be the glory. (my kids: if you are reading this...please wait a few more years to screw up...a couple of people might read this.)

Mr. Deeds

James said that he would show his faith by his works. Met with a guy recently that wasn't bragging...we were just talking and he& his wife recently saw a couple in awkward financial position (restaurant didn't take their cc of choice) so they mysteriously paid for the meal of this young couple (whom they didn't know and didn't get credit for it). Then he confessed how he was getting back at his quiet time, even showed me his notes from that morning. He bought his pastor lunch (which wasn't required). Called a man (who was having a rough time) to encourage him. And really there were several other things, and many in just one day. ---I couldn't help to think...what if all of us (followers of Jesus) just operated naturally like that throughout the day---helping others?---Do you think people might come to church when we ask them? Mr. Deeds sounds like the opposite of the hypocrisy so many like to throw at the church.

Temptation, no big leap

Mt.4:2 After fasting forty days Jesus was hungry. It was normal to be hungry, super hungry, starving to death kind of hunger after that long. Temptation isnot usually a big step from where we are. We talk about "leaps of faith". Temptation isn't usually a huge leap. The enemy hits us where we live. In v.3 satan suggests Jesus use his God-power to satisfy the flesh. He encouraged Jesus to take a "short-cut" (which is what sin often is ...a short-cut from doing something God's way). Considering Jesus was extremely hungry, no one else was around, who would it hurt, what would it matter; who could or would blame him?---Sound familiar? Problem: to Jesus this would have been sin; and he had to stay pure to be the just sacrifice for the sin of the world. Only he would be worthy to die for all!

Not in the numbers

Some great things are happening. In the midst of the summer shuffle when attendance wildly fluctuates, it does appear we are repositioning for the positive. We had several new members join this past Sunday(most of them already started serving within the church). Baptisms almost every week. I had more people tell me they would be joining at the next Connect class. ---In the meantime, stay faithful in gathering together and in giving through the summer. God doesn't take time off, and neither does satan. ---Praise the Lord that it's not all about the numbers; because our numbers do show some apathy. Be faithful and Pray hard.

Value of Scripture

Mt.4:4 "...every word that comes from the mouth of God." Jesus quoted Scripture to fend off Satan's temptations. Jesus stood up for the inspiration of Scripture. Jesus is God, and He thinks the Holy Scriptures have power. Now, there is a testimony for Scripture! Jesus refers to Deuteronomy 8:3. God humbled Israel in the wilderness making them hungry and then feeding them. Reading (figuratively)Deuteronomy 8:1-7 God brings us through the wilderness on the way to the Promised Land to check our heart. Will we obey Him or turn to the left or to the right? It is easy to be humble and obedient in lean times. But will we forget the LORD in the good times? The good times are the test. Stay close to the Scriptures in good and bad times. It worked for Jesus.

Pain in the Offering

I just reread the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4. Maybe I either had not thought about it before or I forgot about it; but I relized the first murder was over an offering to God. Hmmmm. That's interesting. He didn't kill the man, his brother, because he wanted the money; but instead it was about his offering (the murderer's). You see Cain had given God "some" of his harvest compared to Abel's "fat" portions that he gave to the Lord. And God was displeased with the "some" that Cain gave and He wasa pleased with the "fat" Abel offered. Hmmm. God knows and notices the difference. People still get angry when you talk about money. Those that give "fat" portions could care less, but those that skimp on God...well they don't like to talk about it.

FYI: Twitter

For those that are interested you can follow me on twitter.com/normansullivan
I write short thoughts more often at times throughout the day. Something might be helpful, inciteful, or totally not make sense. Here's a sample:

Eternal life isn't the after-life; it's the real life. Seriously. Which is longer 75 years or forever? Do the math.
Diet plan: eat food, not food like substances. If it won't rot it's not food. If it takes 10+letters 2spell,it's not food.
Laughing at JRome reminisce the old days in sales. Going2jail or back2sales motive2do right. u had2be there.
Trial only stops when it is useless.--God's pruning is so we will bear fruit.
Go in the ever-increasing glory of God today!

Gen.1:3

And God said, "Let there be light..." This was a dark world, void of life until God so to speak set foot on it. John 1 speaks of God bringing the Light to Darkness, and exposes that man prefers the darkness over the light. Even though, man chooses darkness over light often; it wasn't all that way. We know that man is wicked (Rom.7, Ps.15, Rom.3); but it's not all he ever knew. You see, man didn't come into the picture until Day 6, and by then the light was in the world. Man wasn't familiar with darkness until he chose to believe the lie of the created over the Creator. Man chose by faith to go the way of darkness, evil, disobedient to his Creator.---Almost everything on earth has good and evil uses. It is usually created for the good, but man quickly figures out to use it for evil. (computer, print,food,drink,etc.) ---Perhaps God has created time and broken it up into days, so that we can start over...start fresh...recommit. ---God has built a planet to last, and He has built people to last. Think about it---we are smart enough and now capable to blow this planet up.---This planet won't change shape (oh, it has and will get some more dents and scratches)until God replaces with a new heaven and earth.---In the meantime, walk in the light, and use the daily reset button. Start fresh today!

Woke up

God shook me out of bed this morning, and sent me straight to the computer. He gave me this crazy idea, and I know it was Him, because I wasn't even thinking about it. He's like nudging me, and nudging me; and I'm like I don't want to get up yet. But He kept giving me this wacky idea to invite all my FB friends to give $10 to the Building Fund; and for their friends to give $10---He wouldn't even let me question Him. Because I was like "why would anybody do that?" As I was writing, He reminded me it was the 10 year anniversary and $10 wasn't that much---so I put that in the text. You may ask, "How did you know it was God's idea?" You only ask that because you don't know God. God is really cool. He has a passion for wacky ideas...things that people find hard to believe. Like in Judges 7 when He told Gideon 32k was too many to fight 120k. God grew the army down to 300 and sent them to battle with trumpets, candles and clay pots. (read to see who won)Hello! Does that sound cr---? Anyway, I don't know what will happen. We might get 10 bucks. We might get a bunch of people mad. I'm just pretty stinkin' sure He told me to throw it out there. Now, we sit and watch. Wouldn't it be crazy if the Spirit of God touched 40k plus people to give the 10? It would be a modern day God story. ---stay tuned...

Intentionally Intrusive

It's too late! It is usually too late to help a friend out of a broken marriage or a bad situation by the time we (friends) hear about it. We need preventive measures. I'm not speaking specifically about marriages (that is just an obvious situation). As Christians we will have struggles in life, and we need help from one another (hence the reason for so many "one another" verses in the Bible). If accountability and the "one another" system is to work we need to allow a person or persons to be "intentionally intrusive." We need to allow people to know the real us, and the issues that we battle (secret sins even or our weak spot). ---If we truly want to "get over it" and enjoy God's plan for our lives, we need to allow someone to be intentionally intrusive. ---You need life support, especially if you intend to live the truth. Stop today, and ask God who would be a great "accountability" partner for you. Then, call them. Go see them face to face. Most importantly, tell them the truth about you, and give them permission to ask you the hard questions to keep you on the right path.

So how is death working for you?

That's a strange title, but it is a thought generated from a strange verse at first glance. In 2Cor.4:12 Paul writes: "So death works in us..." I couldn't help faintly hearing Dr.Phil's voice, "So, how's death working for you?" in my mind. Sometimes Paul is hard to understand, so I had to mull over this one a while. I looked over several related Scripture verses, and finally got enough handle to be able to let it go. You know, death isn't an exciting word, and it has the connotation of THE END. So to say "...death works in me" well that's hard to understand.But if you are a follower of Jesus, by now you have probably been baptized (if not, you should go ahead and take care of that). At baptism we see the picture of one dying to the old self...in a sense you are joining the crucified Christ, and then you are raised into newness of life...like the resurrected Christ (albeit this is symbolic, because you haven't received your resurrected body yet). Get this, your eternal life begins the day you accept Christ. Death has no hold on you. Death- better understood as the crucifying of the flesh is a good thing. Killing off that old guy...our old ways is a wonderful testimony of Christ in us! ---Let's finish that verse, because Paul said, "...death works in us, but life in you." When people see that I have died to that old man, the flesh, it creates life in those that want what I've got and turn to follow Jesus; who by the way, is the Resurrection and the Life!" ---Come on! Getch yo dead body on out and show it off to somebody!

Ps.90:12

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.---Usefulness surpasses longevity. In other words, it is not so much how long we live, but how we live out the time that we do have. Think about it. We live in the moment. It is in the moments of life that things happen. It was in the moment that something changed or guided your life; whether it was an action that happened in that moment or something someone said that held great value. It is in those special seasons of life when you achieved the most or influenced the most people ("such a time as this" kind of times---see Esther).
A friend's brother passed away less than a week ago. He passed away at 55. He hadn't seen his brother in a while, and last he remembered was from childhood when he was always getting the siblings in trouble. ---But at the funeral, one by one; person after person came by to tell how much his brother had touched their lives. His brother had not bragged about it, but had lived a life glorifying Jesus Christ. ---In the little time that we have left, how about we just be Christ to the world? No one has done as much as Jesus, he merely ministered for three years. He walked everywhere...no car, no internet. He just lived the truth.

Not my Birthday

Wow today has gone by unceremoniously. I realized about midday that 10 years ago today I dove into this thing called church planting. I left my job, and joined the rank of church planters. What had no people at first, started as a lot of prayer. Then God added a few people here and there. Initially, it was known as the Spencerfield Mission. We had to have some kind of a name for folks to be able to give their offering. Praise the LORD, my family has survived...we haven't made to many people mad along the way, and most importantly God has been incredible in allowing us to lead hundreds to Christ (which is something I wasn't doing as a Sunday school teacher/deacon). I just want to say thank you to the people that have stuck with us through thick and thin. It ain't easy being me, but I also know it isn't easy being you (putting up with me). Let's continue to strive to be on the same page with God, and join Him at work. Thanks to my family, who no doubt gets the scraps at times. Much love out to my wife, Teresa, who has been a champion in enduring this calling. God bless Living Truth!

Props to Dave Ramsey

It's good to see when some things we study spill over to benefit our kids. Teresa and I joined other couples in Financial Peace classes offered at our church over a year ago. By now, we have had several graduates from FPU. We could have sooooo used this class years ago. Anyway, it made such a favorable impression on us that we have tried to pass it on to our kids. ---I couldn't help to share this success story as my son started saving for a car his senior year, and this week landed the vehicle he was looking for. He paid cash, and he waited long enough to get a deal that left him with money to fix it up or whatever. Go Jordan! Thanks Dave.

Exodus 23:20

Moses had a unique relationship with God in the Old Testament. It was said that when Moses met with God in the "Tent of Meeting" that the conversation was like two friends talking. Awesome! Everyone in the OT didn't have that kind of relationship with God; however that is part of the benefit of the New Covenant for those who are in Christ Jesus. ---Anyway, I want to back track to Moses. In Exodus 23:20 God tells Moses that He is going to send an angel before Israel to pave the way to the Promised Land. This angel would defeat the enemy. However, he warned Mo to tell the people if they rebel this angel would not forgive their rebellion. This angel was so loyal to God and the protection of God's holy Name, that if the people rebelled he wouldn't be able to tell the difference of who the enemy was. In other words, they better fly right or get ready to pay the price themselves. I think this is an incredible picture that they we never hear talked about. ----The angel saw things as black and white; good and evil. The angel knew if you weren't for God, then you were against God. He didn't put up with any trash. ---It also demonstrates God's mercy and God's grace; because He has been patient with their trash and our trash. People can talk about an angry or violent God, but I would beg to differ... the planet is still here. Yet, there is a huge make-over coming, but it will come in God's sweet time; and He has sent mankind ample warning.

Greed

Greed is starting to rear its ugly head. Everyone is so worried that someone else is going to get "their" dollar. Hence, we have the "housing crisis"---too many houses built for too few people. Of course, the financiers aren't going to be out done so they give loans to buy houses to people that can't qualify to rent a house. But no worries, the financiers will sell the note to some other financial group and just pass it along and play the game. Because if it really gets bad the US government will bail them out, because the govt can't let these institutions fail, because people's life saving are in there. And now drilling for oil in the Gulf of Mexico...a company bypassing safety measures trying to drill to hard and too fast, because they need to make money as fast as possible...ignoring warning signs. Well, here we are. Fat, unhappy America. ---Oh, should I start on that one. One study shows that by 2018 40% of America will be obese. I hear that for the last several years foreigners laugh when fat Americans get off planes. And our beloved pasttimes haven't gone untouched. In an era of steroids, who knows what a real record is. The leagues turn and cough while players cheat...for the love of the ...dollar. ----Oh I could go on and on, but I'm really not a negative Nellie. Ask God to forgive us, and start doing your part. Eat the right stuff. Don't eat a second plate. Save money, so you can give it away to the needy. Quit paying the salaries of cheaters. Brag on the people that do things the right way. ----Oh yeah, parents take your kids to church, and quit dragging them to everything else. It's late...I am out.

Saying Goodbye

Something I was told when we first started the church was "people will always be coming and going." That was tough to take as a church of eleven or so people. We would get people in and then supposedly lose them. But then I learned early that it was better that some leave. Through the years I've felt that we as a church body need to be able to get along, so it is important that we can absorb every different personality that exists. God has blessed and we have grown. People still come and go. Some people move away and some are called by God to other places. Some bail-out on their Christian responsibilities. People don't belong to us, they belong to God. I'm thankful to God that we've been privileged to serve alongside some great folks. Also, I am hopeful that we've been a positive influence on them; whether they've moved because of job/military or went on to help another church. I hope that those that have fallen out of love with Christ will make it back. So, we will always say goodbye, but we will also be saying hello to new folks as God sends our way. In the meantime, let's make each other better for God's glory.

Rep

2Cr.3:1-3 The Corinthians were an open book testimony to the power and ministry of the truth of the Gospel that Paul preached while he was with them for two years. The proof is in the pudding! Just as an email letter recently sent to the church(by a man reached by some men in the church) testifying that LTC is genuinely trying to reach others for Christ---the testimony is written on the hearts of the people. People were challenging Paul’s motives and agenda. If they would just look at the result of his ministry in Corinth, the truth would be told. Meanwhile, divisive people (sent from Satan, unbeknownst to them) came in and disrupted what Paul had started in Christ. ---Just two weeks ago, some of our LTC folks were training an older church in the community on how to share Jesus with people. (that ain’t bringing, it is just truth) They asked us to help, because that is part of our reputation. ---What is your rep? What are you known for?

Name Dropping

Paul name drops as he ends the 1st letter to Corinth. He begins by reminding them of collecting for the saints on the first day of the week, and to “set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.” ---v. 10 Take care of Timothy when he comes, because he is just as I am. Then send him back to me in peace. V.12 I urged Apollos to come to you, but he said he can’t yet; but he will when he gets the opportunity. V.15 Paul gives props to the household of Stephanas as being the first converts in Achaia and how they were devoted to the service of the saints. Paul urges the believers to submit to such as these. Follow their leadership. V.17 Then he adds kudos to some other folks beginning with Stephanas and adding Fotunatus and Achaicus because "they have supplied what was lacking from you." ---These took it on themselves to make sure Paul had everything he needed. “They refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.” Greetings are sent from Aquila and Priscilla and the church that met at their house.---As Paul ends this letter with personal greetings one cannot help but admire the love and devotion evidenced from his words. These words about the ones that were “in”…the ones that were “getting it.” He doesn’t mention here those that were causing division and strife. The body of the letter addresses the strife and division that was attempting to disrupt the integrity of the church, but ends with a sense of calmness as the reader can ascertain that there were some people that were “all in.” There were some people that were effective in the work. Amen.---Would you be bragged on? Would your name be dropped?

Sweetly Chosen

Can’t you see what the Lord has done for you?
1 Pet.2:9-10
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Normally chosen people was reserved for Israel, but the veil has been rent (torn). Once royalty and priesthood stood apart from one another. But our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the prophet, priest and king has brought them together. Once upon a time, Israel was that holy nation, a people belonging to God; but now that has been extended to those who are in Christ Jesus. Since we have been called out of darkness and into the marvelous light, let us praise Jesus for this is the proper response. So much time has flown by that we don’t realize that we were people without hope; we were a people on the outside looking in---we were not a people. But now, praise the Lord, we are the people of God. In the past God said that He would give mercy to who He would give mercy and be gracious to who He would be gracious to. ---We have now received that mercy, and ought to be shouting from the roof top, and living for Him who died for us and rose again.
---Live that today. Don’t be distracted. Take time to ponder what the Lord has done for you.

Trying too hard

I don't care where you are in your Christian walk, Satan doesn't give up on you. That is why it is so important for us to develop healthy habits and direction in our personal spiritual growth (see 2 Peter 1:5-11). It is funny that we are willing to try almost anything except the knowledge of God. Getting to know God personally seems to simple I guess. I dunno. We will trust in the schemes and plans of men instead of the knowledge of Him. When we just need to concentrate on one simple thing and that is getting to know God. We will try knowing ourselves instead of the knowledge of Him. People buy and read books on getting to know their "inner-self". We need to come to the same place the Apostle Paul did, when he said that I may know Him (Philippians 3:10). Don't try all the wrong things... don't try so hard. Get to know Christ and (hence) the power of his resurrection...

Set

So I asked this question the other day, and I think it deserves an answer from each one of us. When do people become set in their ways? Unpacked a little further: when do we think we know it all? Are you still a learner? Is there room for change in your life? ---Do you read for change? Do you listen for change? Part of what I do is to help lead people into life transformation...but I wonder do any of us really make adjustments or do we keep doing things the same old way; and keep traveling in the same circle wondering why we are not getting any where? I don't know about you, but I'm always needing some change. ---God hit me with something the other day. It was huge. It had to do with how I deal with people and salvation. I'm reevaluating some things, and I'm grateful to God for pointing this out. If the way you were living or whatever needed to be adjusted, would you change things up?