Norm's Blog

Submit to the King

2012-02-01T07:39:00.000-08:00

At the end of Revelation it is prophesied that the kings of the world will unite for one last battle against God and the Great City. As you'll read in Revelation it's not much of a battle as Jesus, the King, takes care of business. In Psalm 2 exists the prophecy of such a battle written roughly 3,000 years ago warning folks to get on the right side, and submit to the King now. ---I'm troubled. In our day, I listen as people disrespect God as if there will be no repercussions. I listen as people pick and choose what they want from the Bible as if their opinion matters. God is God, and we are not. There will be no excuse (see Rom.1). The basic problem is mankind wants to be God. People want to sit on the throne (of their lives). In Revelation 4 John was allowed to peak into heaven, and found that One sits on the throne of the Universe; and He is quite in control. The God of the Universe does not need our opinion or help. Psalm 2 is very suggestive. It suggests that you and I be on the right side, because the King is coming back and He will deal handily with His enemies. We are to revere God and hold Him above all else. "Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities..." There's your warning. You can get mad, and shake your fist in disbelief. "But the One who rules in heaven laughs. The LORD scoffs at them." However, it is a different scene for those who submit to the KIng, "But what joy for all who take refuge in Him!"

Perseverance

2012-01-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

Knowing what to do really isn't most people's problem. Getting started and actually doing the right things isn't usually a huge barrier either. The problem is perseverance. Knowing what to do, starting that thing and continuing is the real issue. ---This is why in church we pray for one another, we meet with one another, and we encourage (spur) one another on to good deeds. So, do not forsake the assembling together as the body of Christ. It is good for your perseverance.--Heb.10:24-25

Clearing Out My Locker

2012-01-22T20:59:00.000-08:00

So the ending of another Football season comes upon us. [Turn away ladies, this blog is all about football. Except for a few of you.]
I have some thoughts that I must release. I will miss the analogies that aided and abetted many a sermon (not as many as I was tempted to use though.). The NFL started out in the mud from an ugly Player vs Owner battle, but the Shield (National Football League) managed to rise from the miry clay, because it is the best game. It pits speed against strength, skill against coaching, clutch against luck, veteran teams against upstart teams and rising stars against the guys headed back down the ladder. Where do I start? Ole Tom Brady, well, he is simply the best. Beauty overcame the beast (Ray Lewis&Co.) in this tough game of men that comes down to inches and split seconds (see: almost catch by Lee Evans or hook-shot by Billy Cundiff). They work hard and play hard all year, and then it comes down to clutch plays. A great year was had by guys like Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers, but even they fell short of the prize. Big Ben tried his best, and as Champ Bailey put it, "He's always injured when he plays." He got bested by the controversial (due to too much media attention) Tim Tebow who just wants to play football and represent Christ. The Indy Colts were exposed: without Peyton Manning they are a two-win team. Then there is little brother Eli who I'm assuming really can't get respect, because he looks like a third-grader. For goodness sake, the guy has a Super Bowl ring and is going for another. He plays in NY, give the kid a break. I really could go on and on, because it was a fun season. My boys got into Fantasy Football and we had some fun with that. Oh, I almost forgot, congrats to the Harbaugh brothers for making it to the AFC&NFC Championships. Pretty cool! I still don't know why one of these teams hunting a coach won't give Pops Harbaugh a call. Finally, I'm torn on how I want the Super Bowl to end. I'd like to see Tom Brady get one more ring and be done. I really don't like the Patriots, because I really don't like when one team just dominates like they have. But I love the intestinal fortitude with which Brady plays the game. I love the way he carries himself, and his story in college and in the pros to get to where he is. But I'm torn. I'm probably the only person that will make this next statement. I like Old Tom Coughlin, the coach for the Giants that everyone (often even his own team) loves to hate. Probably almost every week I heard how his job was in jeopardy. I kind of hope he wins the Super Bowl and tells the Giants he'll retire, or coach the Dolphins or something. I think it stinks that a good coach is said to be on the hot-seat every week...probably because he looks like he's mad all the time on the sideline. C'mon man, he's a good coach! Either way, I guess I want Tom to win. ---Now I'm done. No, I won't be watching the Pro Bowl, because that is too much like Reality TV.

Complainers Need a Hug

2012-01-20T08:13:00.001-08:00

Everyone knows a complainer. They can find the gloom and doom in any situation. They can suck the life right out of hope. They can slow down or even stop a good thing. They bring discouragement to the table week after week. You get my drift? This isn't a team member or friend who normally contributes positively, and is bringing positive critique.
Here's the deal. Because we live in an imperfect society, there is always ample opportunity for complaints. Life is tough. Like one comedian said, "Put a helmet on!" (Brad Stine) In the life of an organization it becomes like a roller-coaster constantly (not just often). It is the nature of life. So, heck yeah, something always has the potential to go hay-wire. Complainers just feel the need to ALWAYS point that out. Leaders, meanwhile, are looking for a solution without discouraging the crowd (knowing that indeed there is a solution, we just have to find it.).
Complainers surround us: in families, at church, at work, at Disney World, on all the social networks, etc.
Complainers need a hug, but they don't need to be in charge. Otherwise, they will drag everyone down with them. They will stop a good thing before it really gets going. They will stop a potentially great thing before it makes the big curve to the down-hill slope. Worst of all, they will never be happy. Because such is life. Everything is never all right, consequently there is always something to complain about. ---Funny, but sad story. I remember a time when this guy had questions about our church, and he was considering getting "all in". He suggested we go play golf, and we could talk about church and hopefully get any concerns he had before joining out of the way. Of course I went, it was free golf. ---We had not even played nine holes before I realized this guy had 99 problems with our church. At about question 18 (and hole#2) I realized this probably wasn't the church for him. At about question 36 (and hole #4), I realized I wasn't even enjoying free golf. At about question 72 ( and hole #8) I wondered if I really liked our church. By hole #9 I had to quit really listening, because I was wondering if I should even be in the ministry. ---The crazy thing is that prior to this I had high hopes for this guy, perhaps even in leadership. Afterward, I agreed with him that we were a terrible church, and he should search elsewhere. ---Years later, we're still not the perfect church, but we're trying. Complainers need a hug, not a place at the leadership table. Do everything without complaining or arguing so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe (Phil.2:14-15)--Thanks to Rick Howerton for inspiration on twitter @RickHowerton

Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and Mickey

2012-01-03T07:54:00.001-08:00

Everybody wants something to believe in. That's why mythical characters like Santa, fairies and Mickey&friends are so popular. People want to believe in something they can't fully comprehend. KIds get older and become disappointed when they know the truth about some of these characters. They even want to go back in time. In fact, adults can often think back to when they were sure they heard the pitter-patter of reindeer hoofs on their house when they were children. Theme parks are so popular because they play to this desire to live in the make-believe. By nature we want to believe in something unexplainable, fun and good. Why so? God has put the desire in our hearts to know Him. He is the mysterious-better-than-this-life part of the story. Ecc.3:11 (God) 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. My hope for this year is that more and more folks understand (fathom) the explainable story. Jesus is the Christ (Messiah, Savior) from the true Christmas story. He is the hero in this Epic Adventure called life. You will hear more about Jesus at Easter. My hope is that you will quit wasting time with diversions and distractions (not the week vacations that refresh, but years of taking the wrong road), and start living with a sense of purpose the life God has planned out for you. Only in Christ can you be all that God desires for you, and He has huge plans for you. What a ride!

You're Invited to Make a Difference

2011-12-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

So are you tired of the status quo? Are you trying to do it your way, and staying stuck? So how is that Tea Party Thing working out? How is that Occupy Thing working out? It doesn't take long for the establishment to either stamp them out by making concerned citizens look like fools or infiltrating them and making them once again status quo (part of the establishment). I think by now we all realize the "establishment" isn't the answer, nor is "anti-establisment" the answer. Democrat and Republican are not the answer either (nor the independent). If you really want to make an actual difference, we invite you to Living Truth. This past year we dabbled in helping other people and organizations that were already making a difference. We didn't reinvent anything; we simply joined others in helping meet needs (helping the homeless, widow, elderly, downtrodden, oppressed, etc.). We prayed and listened and helped random individuals in need as God led and provided. We invite you to be part of the "We". However, know that we come together and do what we do in the name of Jesus. This year we will do no less than 30 missions in loving our neighbors in Christ. We're not here to complain. We're here to help. Why do we invite the entire community? We need more people. The more people we have the more small groups we have to carry out this mission. We would love to have the capability of doing 300 helping hand missions in the name of Christ. Perhaps you don't know Christ or have not received the Savior whose "birthday" many just celebrated. That's okay. We invite you to come to Living Truth and check things out. You will get acquainted with Christ and see what a truly devoted follower of Christ lives like. So, go from check out mode to stand by mode. Come and be a part of this while you are in standby mode. And, if you're fully paying attention we trust that you will enter the full-power mode in Christ Jesus eventually. ---So instead of whining, complaining, and occupying come make a real difference, and in the process we trust you will come to faith in the risen Christ and forever be transformed. Live the transformed life, not the status quo.
livingtruthchurch.com

You Can Do It

2011-12-26T22:21:00.000-08:00

You can absolutely do what God has called you to do. I hear folks give all kinds of excuses for why they can't do something God has called them to do. Now, you do have to be smart. God may have called you to do something, but He hasn't quite equipped you yet. Know this: whom God calls He equips. However, more often than not people never leave the launching pad. In my case, God called me out of a fifteen year career in business to preach. That is not everyone's call. And yes, it is true if you can do anything besides preach you should do that. But even after God clearly placed that call on my life, it was a year before I started seminary and three years before I started preaching on a regular basis. In fact, while the call to preach was clear the details were muddy for a few years. And then when the details were clear it was frightening. Things didn't make sense. Even though I felt like a "fish out of water" in my previous career it was something that I was comfortable with, familiar with and good at. Not to mention, the oldest of our four children was about to start high school. Look, there is a never a good time to leave your comfort zone, but when God makes it clear you have to go. There is nothing like being in the center of God's will. I don't know what God has called you to do, but I do know that He has designed each one of us to be a part of His amazing story. Don't make excuses and miss out on "God stuff." You can do it. This is a new year. Let's all get out of the boat and walk on water! Be a part of the story. Quit reading about it from everyone else.

The ACLU Sucks

2011-12-22T11:48:00.001-08:00

Recently I got to be a little part in a big thing that could have been bigger and better had the ACLU not made it harder for christians to do good things for the poor and oppressed of our society. It's a shame when you have to sneak around to do good deeds. Locally some christians spear-headed an event to help some of the "down and out" folks in the community. They involved probably about five different churches mixed with high school volunteers and local businesses that made donations. The volunteers were easily in excess of a hundred people. A lot of food was purchased, donated, cooked and prepared for give away to show Christ's love. Coats and clothes were collected from churches and random citizens that heard about the event. Toys were purchased and donated to give away to those going through difficult times. A Christmas program was set up and put on to show the love to friends in the community that didn't even know they had friends. ---I could go on and on. It was great...but there was one catch...one hang up. The folks that came to receive the blessing was a minimal number. Because of recent events in SRC schools and nationally, it is getting harder and harder for christians to do what they ought to be doing. To be sure no rules or laws are violated it has become a tricky situation...a tight-rope walk to invite the very people that school officials know are the needy. When 90% of kids are on the free lunch program, there is a need! But the school officials that care for the children all through the week have their hands tied when it comes to publicly inviting families to a good thing. ---I thank those officials that care. I thank those volunteers that did their best. As for the ACLU, you suck.

Why does Christmas Day being on Sunday complicate things?

2011-12-21T07:48:00.000-08:00

Why does Christmas Day being on Sunday complicate things? For one things a lot of businesses will have trouble shutting down or giving employees a courtesy day off. Typically, it is a time when families try to get together somehow. Yet, the day included in its very name is about Christ. Churches figure it to be a lesser attended day, because the uncommitted folks won't show up or may be swayed by non-believing family members into skipping. Ultimately, it tests our allegiance as believers to what the day is really about. The commercialism and secularism of the day face-off with the true meaning. It's not really about reindeer, the gifts and all the lights. It is about the Lamb of God coming to the world to take away the sin of the world. ---It's uncomfortable. It cramps our plans when the real story and our pretend story collides. ---Resurrection Sunday is celebrated in churches every week of the year. But how do we handle it when Resurrection Sunday meets Christmas Day...on the same day? This only happens once in a while, but it makes us think (if we will). It's painful to realize that many of us Christians have made it a secular (without God) day or family (without God) day. Christmas is about the birth of Christ, and you can't separate the Christ for why He came. And, the truth is, we do. Yet, we should never separate Christmas and the Resurrection. Oddly enough it should not complicate things, but rather it should simplify. He came, he died, and he was resurrected. What child is this? He is the Savior of the world!

What was learned from the $100 Challenge

2011-12-19T10:31:00.000-08:00

It ran its course. What did we learn from it? The "it" being the $100 Challenge. Sometime before the first of this year God challenged me to step out in faith and challenge our church in a unique way. Each week a different person offered up a $100 bill. It could not be the same person throughout the year. Consequently, it wouldn't be a bunch of rich people taking hundreds off that tree in the backyard. It would be single moms, high school seniors, retirees, college students...well you get the picture---people that $100 bill meant a lot to. Since it had to be a $100 bill and not a check or a bunch of twenties, it had to be premeditated. We didn't drum up business or guilt people into giving it. I was fine if it only happened two weeks, then oh well. I only reminded people a couple of times that there was an opening if they wanted to give the hundred. I wanted people to learn to hear God's voice. But the giving was only part of it. The other part was small groups (our cpr groups) took the hundred and did something for some person or people in the community in Christ's name. We wanted to make the name of Jesus famous. After all, Christians are to be representatives of Christ. So our people began to open their collectives eyes around the community to seek out and find those in need. We wanted to find those that were marginalized. We wanted to find those that could use a pick me up. The important thing was for a group to get together on what they did...who they helped. We helped organizations that are already doing stuff helpful. We helped with some water bills, and power bills as you could imagine. It was great to see the creativity and the care that went into the blessing. ---This was God's idea, and He made some things about it plain. One of the things is that it was for a season. I certainly hope folks learned that it's easier to part with a $100 than they realized. I also hope that people learned how to look around and see people that perhaps they didn't even see in need in the past. Mostly, I hope that God was glorified by any and all of this. What will we do this year? I don't know. Pray hard.
To Living Truth Church: Thank you for your obedience in the giving of over $5,000 a hundred dollars at a time. It's the small things that add up to big things. God bless.

Why Good Things Happen to Bad People

2011-12-09T09:11:00.000-08:00

A frequently asked question is "Why do bad things happen to good people?" This question is most often asked when someone is contemplating placing their faith in Christ. I guess people want to make God sound bad, thus justifying their excuse for not following Him. The conversation usually goes something like "Why did something bad (fill in the blank) happen to this innocent person?" At the very root of this answer is simple: we live in a fallen world. It is mired by our ancestors and our choice to sin. The evil we live with is the consequence of sin. "Yeah, but why does something bad happen to an innocent person?" And who might that be? You see, there is no innocent person. The Bible tells us plainly (and we know it's true) "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." We are a people condemned to death due to sin. No one is innocent. In the Garden when Adam and Eve ate of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (Gen.3) all innocence left the planet. Adam was told distinctly (Gen.2) that in the day he ate of that tree he would surely die. He was promised death at the day of disobedience. Well, he didn't get immediate death. God shows His true colors of mercy, patience and grace from the beginning. He does that over and over in the book. He does that over and over in our lives. The question isn't really "Why do bad things happen to good people?", because no such person exists. The question is "Why do good things happen to bad people?"---God is loving. He is merciful. He is patient with people coming to Him through salvation. God demonstrated His love toward us, that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. God made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin, to become sin for us, so that we might become right with God. ---God is good. He is on the right side of things. It's a rebellious, lying spirit ("God didn't really say"Gen.3-satan's words) that provokes man to question God. ---I have absolutely no idea why God saved a wretch like me. But He did. Thank you Jesus.

3 Spots Left

2011-12-06T21:12:00.001-08:00

It was nearly a year ago that I listened as God spoke to me in one of those 3am conversations. He told me to challenge our church with this $100 Challenge. Each week a different person offered me a $100 bill to which I handed to one of our small groups to go help someone (person or organization that was helping people) in the local community. They had to video (30-45 sec) and show on Sunday. --- I gave the first Sunday, but after that I didn't know if people would give or not. Remember: the same person could not give twice. Consequently, people that couldn't easily give $100 would have to rise to the occasion. AND YOU DID! Single moms, single dads, starving college students, etc. have all been among the givers. You have helped individuals that God made you aware of, and you have helped organizations that were excited to get a little extra help. Thank you. Thank you. And God bless you. We've now blessed this community close to $5,000... a hundred dollars at a time. ---We have three spots left. I have no idea what God wants us to do next year, but we've certainly learned a lot. We've learned that we don't miss an occasional $100, and it makes people smile when you give them $100 of help. It brings out the best. ---It has been cool, because I've never begged for the $100. On occasion I simply reminded you that I had no one "on deck" to give it. Well, we are at the end of the called venture with three open spots to finish the year. If more than three people step up, who knows we might keep doing it (but maybe without the videos). We'll see. Holla, if you want to be a blessing to your community. Peace.

Double-payment for sin

2011-12-05T15:01:00.001-08:00

"Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, That her warfare is ended, That her iniquity is pardoned; For she has received from the LORD's hand Double for all her sins."--Isa.40:2 nkjv
She hath received of the Lord’s hand double for all her sins,” is one of those sayings that gets lost in cultural translation.
If a Jew were in financial difficulties and he turned his home or his farm over to a creditor in order to meet his debts, a paper would be made out giving this full information. One copy would be kept by the one who placed the mortgage on the property, and the other would be nailed up on the doorpost, so that anyone would understand that this property was transferred temporarily to another. (They didn't need a Title Company back in the day, because the notice was on the doorway.) When the account was settled and everything was paid, the notice on the doorpost would be doubled, tacked up double, covered over. That indicated it was all settled.
When it says, “She hath received of the Lord’s hand the double for all her sins,” it is as though it said the account has been fully paid. Nothing more now to suffer, because the Lord will have pardoned her iniquity.
The prophet wrote this "It is finished" account settlement years before the birth of Christ. It was part of the message John the Baptist would cry out to the Jews preparing the way for the Gospel message to be received.
*** I share this insight, because some people ask if some have to pay double for their sins, based on this verse. No. There is one price. You can pay it and spend eternity in the lake of fire, or you can accept the payment and spend eternity with Christ.

Conservative Rant

2011-12-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

I'm not big on classifications, but I guess I fit the conservative mold. I like to think things through, and not simply believe them just because someone that looks like me or was born in the same part of the country believes whatever. ---Recently, I listened as a political pundit made comments about liberals and conservatives, and he struck a chord with me. He said that liberals feel like they are the only ones that care about the poor. I have to agree that is the way the media portrays the liberal vs conservative bent. Allegedly, conservatives are for the rich and powerful and don't give a flip about the poor. Consequently, the public shouldn't even listen to conservatives because they are terrible. ---May I please share "the way I think", and it is the way several people that I know think? The conservatives that I know are often but not always Christians. The ones that I know: help at places like the Pregnancy Resource Center (you know when a young couple or just a young lady go for help with an out-of-marriage pregnancy takes place. They are given all kinds of free stuff and guidance to pregnancy and nurturing. Love.); Family Promise (where families in transition go for help. Love.); Council on Aging ( where elderly folks are helped to live their lives with dignity); Salvation Army (where the poor are ministered to in multiple ways) Florida Baptist Disaster Relief Team ( where they often beat the Red Cross on location to help folks in time of need. Also Red Cross); Living Truth Church (this whole year a different person gave $100 a week to be handed out to people or people helping people in the local community). These are just some of the conservatives out there not bragging, but doing what they do either in Jesus' name or because it is the right thing to do. So, please don't say conservatives don't care about the poor. Their (our) actions prove otherwise.---Here's the thing. I do believe that if a man/woman works hard for a full day's pay, then they should be entitled to as much of that pay as possible. Conservatives don't believe in the redistribution of wealth. Somehow this gets mistaken as if they don't care. Picture a guy working a hot, smelly, dangerous-even job. Should we take a huge portion of his check and pay for the laziness or mistakes of others. I'm pretty sure most of us would agree if a guy works hard for the money, he should get his money. Many of the hard-working people I know are generous. They will give the shirt off their back to help someone in need. ---The problem is greed. Those making the most aren't necessarily bad people. And many of them are giving. ---The problem lies in two people. 1. The person who won't work for food. 2. The person that cheats and mistreats the poor to get rich. The Bible addresses both of these folk. (I'll not go into preaching mode.) ---Then there is the whole right-to-life thing. Yes, I believe a child should not be put to death in the womb, because somebody made a stupid decision. God said, "Choose life." However, once this act has been committed, once again the conservatives that I know are there for the people that made a poor choice. ---The other hotspot is homosexuality. I'll address this from a conservative Christian perspective, because I understand there are conservative gays. We all have friends and relatives that have adopted the homosexual lifestyle. While as a conservative Christian (again without preaching) I totally disagree with homosexuality from biblical understanding. I don't hate the people. I hope for the people. I'm definitely not into name-calling of any kind. --- We may respectfully disagree on any or all of these issues, but I don't (nor do I think most conservatives) mindlessly pick a belief due to culture or region. ---I will defend the right for the liberal to speak, and I choose not to put them in a certain category. Just please don't be misguided by the media on what a true conservative believes. Final note: I know there are extremes on the left and the right. As much as it pains me to say, they too have a right to be heard in public. ---So remember, next time you're in a crisis; there is a good chance a conservative will be the one that comes to help.

Excuses Are For Losers

2011-11-28T07:15:00.000-08:00

[Advisory: even if you don't like sports this blog contains life nutrients.]
The Green Bay Packers will win the Super Bowl. As they sit undefeated, that sounds like a no-brainer, a band-wagon pick or whatever. However, I am going back to last year, when their team had a host of injuries. They shouldn't have even made it to the playoffs and they virtually have the same team this year. They played through the injuries to win last year. They kept their eye on the prize. They didn't make excuses. ---Think about it. When do we make excuses? We make excuses after we lose. Excuses are for losers. "I was sick. We were missing some key players." It doesn't even have to apply to football or sports. The winning team has a whole different view. They point to the team, the other players, and the hard work during the off season as keys to victory. Their commitment to win is such that they will not accept excuses themselves. The truth is (with minor exceptions) every team prepares, practices and has players that work hard in the off season. Every team plays to win. Yet only one wins the prize. Practice, prepare and run to win in life. Don't allow for excuses.
Speaking of the goal-line (winning), the Apostle Paul said (Phil.3:13,14) I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
God has a purpose for YOU in this life. If you're not serving Him in that purpose, then you are losing. We will all stand before God in the end. Don't come packing excuses. Live for Him, while it is still called today, and Win! Perhaps you are reading this and you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. If that be the case, you are on the wrong team...unless of course you want to be on the losing team. There is no good excuse to be on that team, because the Bible is very clear on how things end. If you want to win, contact me. We need more players. :)
*For a good dose of excuses: listen to Adam and Eve respond to God (Genesis 3) after they had lost (sinned) in the Garden.

Name is important

2011-11-23T12:08:00.000-08:00

God changed Abram's name to Abraham. Abraham meant "father of many nations or multitudes." So what is in a name? Your name is what people call you by. If you get called something over and over again you are going to believe that is you. Before God changed Isaac's name, it was Jacob which meant "trickster or deceiver." He lived up to that name, but God let him know that He had a different plan for him. ---As a child of God (that is assuming you have been born again), you are now known as a son or daughter of God. That is what you are. You are in God's eyes holy, blameless, more than a conqueror, etc. ---Instead of living like the old you: perhaps thief, liar, alcoholic, or whatever, isn't it time you started living up to the new name "child of God?" Put that old nature away. Put it to death. Your identity has changed. If you keep calling yourself addict, liar, lazy or whatever you once were, then you will live down to that. Use this Thanksgiving to truly thank God and start over.

Depression, Out-of-it, and the Funk

2011-11-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

When you're in it, you can't see it; but often everyone else can. That is another reason we all need other people. We are told in Scriptures to bear with one another, meaning to literally "help another person just stand up." There is a reason that Paul wrote that to the solid Christians in Colosse. They, like us, would eventually need to hear that. ---Way too often when people fall into depression or into the funk, they will not call their friends for help. In fact, they will do the opposite. They will shut themselves behind walls where their friends cannot even get to them. On the rare occasion that they will call out on the life-line, they don't understand why all of a sudden they are depressed, out-of-it, or in the funk. "What happened? How did I get here?" Pastorally speaking, it is usually an easy call from my vantage point. When folks get out of touch with Christ (stop spending quality time with God daily), get away from the relationships that were empowering them spiritually and emotionally (out of church and small groups that guide and encourage), miss out on teachings from the Scripture (preaching does help sustain us) then we have opened up opportunity for rulers, authorities, powers of darkness, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm to attack us. Oh, it is so subtle we don't realize what happened. We feel like it happened all of a sudden, but it didn't. We missed or skipped these opportunities that pour into us; and wake up one day mad at the world or in the funk. Our only prayer if we dare is "Help!" But even this won't help if we don't listen for the answer. Sadly, many stay depressed and never get out. ---It happens to good sane people. We get too busy. Something in life distracts us from the habits of discipline that aid and abet our spiritual growth, and Bam! We get blindsided and begin to blame everyone, but us. ---I can't tell you how many times someone has told me of a friend that was in a rut, and it was so easy to trace things back to when they stopped coming to church for whatever the reason(hearing God's Word and being around the folks that could pick them up.). Your church, our church meets at the same place every week. Come and listen. Be blessed. Be rejuvenated. Come out of it! Listen, if you stand alone the spiritual forces of evil will certainly lie to you. They will draw you into the funk. Get out now, while you still can. Run to the light. Christ and His church love you, but you can't be helped while you willfully stay away.
See Col. 3:13; Eph.6:12

Soul Sisters On the Move

2011-11-12T06:53:00.001-08:00

It's a beautiful Saturday morning and the Soul Sisters are on the move. This is the chosen name of the women's ministry of Living Truth Church. They will gather for a team breakfast, and then fan out in different directions to served Jesus by loving on this community. Before they get started they've already raised money via a spaghetti dinner and talent auction to help with any costs of the organizations they help out. Some of the groups that will be targeted are: the Pregnancy Resource Center, Family Promise and the Council on Aging. The ladies will be baking, cleaning, organizing, painting, and meeting other needs of these groups that are already ministering in the community. Go girls!

See it Tell it

2011-11-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

There is a popular billboard dealing with terrorism, and it states: "If you see something, tell somebody." In light of the sexual child abuse scandal at Penn State University, this statement appears more needed for the protection of children. According to a 1998 study conducted by Boston University Medical School one of six boys will be sexually abused by age 16, while one of four girls will be sexually abused by age 14. I am pretty sure those odds are greater than any act of terrorism. Did you get that? A boy has a 16% chance and a girl has a 25% chance of being sexually abused in this country.
In the Penn State case, which I'm pretty sure is going to blow up even bigger as journalist descend on Happy Valley, six adult males had the opportunity to report the case of a 58 yr old man doing something with a ten year old boy in a shower. The initial witness is a twenty-something then(2002) college student who witnessed the horrific event. Let's just say he saw enough. He recognized the man as a former coach. He told his father, who told him to tell the head-coach. The coach told another man up the food chain and evidently let it go at that. The buck was passed upward until the total (men aware of the incident)including college student and his dad came to six. Perhaps the guys at the bottom thought the guys at the top would handle matters appropriately. However, when they never heard any more about the incident, they should have by moral obligation asked questions, like "Why aren't the police involved with this?" Protecting friends, old buddies and the name of a university came over the welfare of a child. ---Now, the public outcry sounds more like a witch hunt. All of a sudden, people are pointing fingers of judgment(and rightfully so). What we need to do is recognize our society has come to this. Yes, we need to be outraged! We need to look out for the children and tell somebody, if we see something and not protect or "friends" or whoever. If someone is sexually abusing one of our kids or grandkids they are not a friend (I could think of other names, but friend isn't on the list.) Sixteen to twenty-five percent of the folks walking around us (maybe even you) have been abused. We can no longer be silent. Promote the family and things that are pure and decent. Revolt against porn and indecent television that promotes perverted and promiscuous behavior. Remember, every little sin wants to grow up and be a big sin. One form of perversion leads to another. Stop the silence. Point these things out. Connect the dots.

Getting it Right

2011-11-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

Wife submit to your husband.
Husband love your wife like Christ loved the church (he died for it).
Children obey your parents.
Parents affectionately train up your kids.
Employee give your employer 100%.
Employer treat your employees the way you would want to be treated.
* These are the "every day" relationships with the people that really know you. Get these right and life will be smoother. The church should have the best marriages, best kids, best employees and best employers. The lives of Christians should exemplify greatness in these relationships.
The world should be attracted to our lives like we're attracted to Disney World. We go to Disney for the attractions. They do it right. Consequently, we want to spend time and money at Disney for a great experience. As the world looks at the church, they should see life being done right and in order...and all is good. Thereby attracting them to the church who genuinely leads them to Christ.
<> Indeed, it's about relationships, not rules. Get these right and watch things come together. :)
See Col.3:18-4:1

Ezek.1-3 Devo

2011-11-01T07:21:00.000-07:00

God speaks to Ezekiel in a vision and in this vision he witnesses some strange sights. He sees the four heavenly beings which are nothing like on earth. He is allowed to see the glory of God, which sends him to his knees. God gives him a message to give to Israel, and God tells Ezekiel that they have such a rebellious spirit that they will not heed the message. Yet, God tells Zeke to preach it anyway. ---Today, we have the Gospel message freely given to us. Likewise, we need to freely give the Gospel away no matter the response of the people. God has a give-away program; it's not on Him if people choose to rebel. ---Like Paul said, "Preach the Word... in season and out of season."

Conversations

2011-10-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

You never know what you're going to get when you ask someone about their spiritual beliefs. It has the potential of being a scary situation. Such was the conversation I had with a guy we'll call Ric. A few of us were at a local Fair that had drawn hundreds of folks, if not a few thousand (no idea). Anyway, we were there to engage in conversation so that we could simply share the Gospel. We weren't Bible thumpin' on anyone, just sharing Jesus if permitted. I'm not one for conflict, but I really am puzzled by an unbelieving world we live in, so I was game to hear from a guy that seemed agitated at God. ---I just asked if he had any spiritual beliefs, and he went off! He was like a powder keg waiting to explode. I had my few folks around me watching to see how pastor was going to handle the wild man. (Pastor was wondering too.) I let him go. He ran. It was painful to hear him talk about God and the church that way, but I wanted to hear. His wife came near and tried to calm his language, but I assured her it was fine. I didn't want Ric to leave. I wanted to understand. He went on to tell me that as a child he learned to get drunk, smoke pot and have sex at church (not all at the same time). He ranted about all the sorry churches and pastors of the past. (He's right. I couldn't argue, nor was that my purpose. People have a reason they believe what they believe, and I wanted to hear that.) He went off on the Angry God talk...you know...how can God send such nice, innocent people to hell. What about all the religions? Which one is right? He was full. I must have sweated a years supply as I just calmly listened. I agreed with him, where I could agree and then I feebly attempted to bring him to all we've got...Jesus, the cross, the resurrection. I managed to get him to read Rom.3:23; 6:23. He acknowledged we're all sinners. (in the end that may be the only victory I had.) Of course, I told him Jesus Christ is the way, the only way. I asked him if he even believed the whole Jesus came and died and was resurrected story, especially since it was done in public and there were over 500 witnesses of the resurrection. He readily confessed that. ---In the end, his excuse is the safest excuse anyone will ever go to hell over...other people. You see, we can't answer for how other Christians act. All we can do is take the conversation back to Jesus. What will you do with Jesus? He didn't die for nothing. ---Sadly, Ric wouldn't stay around and talk some more. ---What I wish I had said....I wish he would have given me time to tell how Christ came into my life and how that has worked for me. Remember, your personal experience with Christ is huge in the conversation. ---I look forward to more conversations with folks that are alienated from God. They are hurting for a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with God. Don't run from the conversation. Listen, take it back to the cross, make much to do about Jesus, and tell your story.

The Godmobile Controversy

2011-10-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Two or three times a year LTC takes our 8x8 trailer (aka the Godmobile) to a Fair nearby where there will be a lot of people for the purpose of sharing the Gospel. Our goal is to merely share the Good News of Jesus Christ with people. Sometimes people make a profession of faith. We do our best to connect them to a church to help them grow spiritually. This would be no different than sharing one on one with a person on a plane or elsewhere. "How will they come to know if someone doesn't preach?" Remember our goal is to merely share the Gospel, we can't help if God was already dealing with them and brings them to salvation. ---This is the part that bugs people (the critics, you know the ones that are doing nothing). They can't understand how a person gets saved in one sitting. Newsflash! We don't understand either. We don't talk people into salvation. In fact, many walk away even with tears in their eyes indicating that God was dealing heavily with them. We've sadly witnessed several people seconds away from accepting Christ (totally locked in) pulled away by friends and family. In 2Tim.4:2 Paul tells Timothy to go and preach. That is all we're doing. We use a two question survey or test to get an idea of the person's spiritual beliefs, and then we simply let God speak to them through the Scriptures. ---We've tried to make the Godmobile look stylish, and not so old-fashioned, but we've not figured that one out yet. Hey, the Gospel is an old message; maybe we'll never figure that out. Bottomline is that we are sharing Jesus. What are you doing? In Acts 17 Paul went out amongst the people (he found a crowd), and shared Jesus. The Scriptures tell us that some believed, some mocked him, and still others said "maybe later." ---Sharing the Gospel will never be easy, because it runs against the grain and schemes of this world. To say that God can't save someone when another person shares the Gospel, well, that is not what the Bible says.

No Cloudy Day

2011-10-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

What is it about cloudy days that seems to put people in the doldrums? It happens when we're alone. It happens on rainy days. It happens when life throws curve balls at us. It happens when we're running late (nevermind we slept late or whatever contributions we made to lateness.) It happens when things aren't going our way. (and how does that work exactly? Doesn't God know we're in control?) ---I don't know. I was just getting this feeling of spiritual ickyness surrounding folks. It was like a wet blanket being thrown on the joy people have in Christ. It was trying to settle in on me, and I'm like, "No way." I quickly recalled God's Word to remind myself of my vantage point in life. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,. It's easy to get swallowed up by the circumstances around us and forget that as far as God is concerned those that are "in Christ" are seated in the heavenly realms with Christ. I know, I know we are still standing here in perhaps what seems the cesspool of life at times, but that's not truth. Christians have been buried in Christ's death, resurrected in life with Christ and we are seated in the heavenly realms with Him. We are in the awkward "already, but not yet." (Already saved, but not yet there.)---Just take baby steps through the junk that is causing you stress today. Be encouraged remembering that "in Christ" you're not from around here; and this old world can't touch you. Oh, it will try just don't believe the lies of the wiley enemy.

Held Hostage by a Lie

2011-10-12T11:23:00.001-07:00

Drugs, Alcohol, Pornography, Excess in TV and food...the "A" list of things Americans are addicted to. Each one of them has something in common...they are all empowered by lies. Drugs will solve your problems. A lie. Alcohol will solve your problems. A lie. Pornography will satisfy you. A lie. TV is real and fulfilling. A lie. More food will do a body good. A lie. ---So why do Christians get addicted to these things? After all, Satan has no power over us, because of what Jesus did on the cross. Almost true. The true part is what Jesus did on the cross was complete. His part is all good. However, when we believe one of Satan's lies we empower him. When we enter the dark-side of the buffet where drugs, alcohol, pornography, and the excesses exist then we have enabled him to influence us because we are in his domain.
Know who you are in Christ. You are buried in death with Christ. You have been resurrected into the newness of life in Christ. You are even seated in the heavenlies with Christ.
If you are addicted to something, cry out to God...expose it...stay connected to Christ and don't enter the dark-side. Fight the battle in the spirit realm. You can't beat it in the flesh. Will-power will not work.
Start by saying and believing that I am a redeemed child of God; I am not a drug addict or whatever you addiction issue is.
Start today. Pray. Shed some light. Get help. Don't identify yourself as an addict anymore. The more you say it, the more you will believe it. And that is the lie Satan uses to hold you hostage. Let the truth set you free.

Hurtin' on the Hate

2011-10-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

We are living in a day when the line seems to be drawn firmly in the sand. When I think of Christians, I'm thinking about people that are genuine followers of Jesus. They certainly aren't perfect people, but they seek to do for others as Christ would. It was certainly Christian thinking that started, funded and equipped things like food banks, clothes closets, shelters for the homeless, hospitals, schools and more. Christians aren't perfect, but they're not all bad. ---So, it hurts when people not of faith hate the church, because of the poor example of some Christians. Forgive us for blowing it. Get to know Christ. But know what little good you do see exude from the church is of Christ.

Devotion for today

2011-10-05T07:31:00.000-07:00

This is just a little something from my reading this morning in Colossians and Jeremiah (early chapters). Paul talks about "Christ in you, the hope of glory" being the mystery revealed. For those before the cross this was certainly a mystery and probably hard to grasp in real time. However, for us looking back at the cross it is pretty easy to see as we compare OT prophecies to Jesus' fulfillment of those prophecies.
With that said, looking in Jeremiah one can easily see something that is not a mystery. (as well as many other places in Scripture) God sends wrath on rebellious people. He sent his wrath on pagans that worshiped false gods. He sent wrath on chosen Israel when they worshiped false gods. God promised death to be the fruit of sin, so mankind should not be surprised when any sort of destruction takes place. The Bible is clear that no one is innocent. Sin brings death. More sin will bring more destruction. The unrighteous will face the judgment of God and his wrath. This should be no surprise, because it is written throughout Scriptures. People don't like to hear this, and many won't read the Bible because they don't want to hear it. However, you can't say God doesn't warn us.
He always provides a way out. There is no condemnation to those who are "in Christ Jesus". (Rom.8:1)
If what you believed were not true, would you want to know the truth?
<>If you won't sincerely seek God, then He can't help you. However, if you will sincerely seek God, then you will find Him. (Jer.29:13) That is His promise, and He is not only willing, but is able to keep His promises.

3 Things for the "Big" Group

2011-10-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

We all like to see things happen above the surface. By now, most people have seen the illustration of the iceberg. You see this beautiful iceberg, but beneath the water is the huge foundation of the iceberg. You only get to see the tip so to speak. I was reminded this morning in my prayer time (as I shut up and listened:don't forget to do that) of the many growth stories I've heard in just the past week or so. The stories involved individuals displaying spiritual maturity through the following ways: sharing Jesus with people they didn't even know, giving a real offering to God for the first time, peace-making with a person of conflict, helping the homeless, and people inviting others to church. These are immeasurable signs of spiritual growth. For the few that I hear about, I'm sure there are several others. So in a moment God reminded me that spiritual growth is happening in our church.
But He also prompted in my heart to pray for 3 specific areas for the "Big" group (the whole church):
1. A genuine hunger for God (or thirst: like a deer pants for water kind of thirst)
2. Growth in giving (possibly the biggest sign of growth is when people just give it away, dying to self)
3. Salvations (if we're telling them about Jesus then they will be saved, especially if our life matches our talk)
I pray for you. I pray for me. I pray that the Lord of the harvest will do crazy things at Living Truth.
Lord God, use us for Your glory.

Mel's Day

2011-09-30T09:34:00.001-07:00

Melanie is getting married today. Okay, we'll give the groom a little cred...Ryan's day too. But she's my little girl, so this is for her. It's 82 degrees...a beautiful day. A beautiful day for a beautiful young lady that has blossomed into a beautiful young woman. Melanie is beautiful on the inside and out. I'm not real sure most of us could say that about ourselves. Melanie always liked dressing up and looking "ta da". Hopefully, she will enjoy this day and not be stressed. She is the epitome of sweetness (wouldn't hurt an ant. I know the saying is "wouldn't hurt a flea" be she literally wouldn't hurt an ant). Her biggest fault is being nice to everyone, and I don't think that is a fault at all. Probably, the worst thing she ever did was picking on her little brother. It really wasn't picking. She just loved him so much, she wanted to squeeze him to death. (He has since grown up and has terrorized her the last couple of years!) I listened last night(at rehearsal dinner) as girl after girl spoke about Melanie calling her their best friend. How could you be that many people's best friend? Some she had known for a long time, while others were recent friendships. Is this a sign about our society that so many people need a best friend, and there are so few to go around? Hmm. Melanie, your mother and I are so proud of you. Thank you for being a pleasure to raise. Congratulation to Ryan who succeeded in his pursuit of Melanie. Congratulations to Melanie for finding her man.
God bless both of you.
Love,
Dad

Tuesday morning thoughts

2011-09-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 29 To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.---Colossians 1
How do you make people come to Christ and obey Him?
You can't and you don't humanly speaking. You do what you can: you pray hard, you go, you proclaim the Gospel, you teach, you live it, you love people, you represent Christ and then you repeat. Paul calls it his labor. It can be cumbersome and will most certainly be unappreciated by men, but you are here to please God. It takes much resolve and perseverance, that is why so many people quit. You can't be a quitter. Done right it can be exhausting, but refreshing at the same time. IT has eternal results and rewards. IT is what you were designed to do.

Eph.4:12-16 Devo

2011-09-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Just a little something from my devotion today. The reading was Eph.4:1-16.
vv.12-16 kind of jumped out to me. Here's what I got.
God gives and gifts pastors and leaders to equip the church...to build up the church, the body of Christ (not tear it down).
<> The Goal: unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son (Jesus)
that we will be mature in the LORD
measuring up to the complete and full standard of Christ. (All eyes on Jesus, 'cause he's the head of the church!)
*Then we'll cease being immature and falling for lies (false doctrine, etc.)
*KNOWING CHRIST IS THE KEY* A personal, intimate relationship with Jesus that only comes from abiding in Christ daily is the key to such maturity. Therefore, we cannot stay away from Christ (prayer) or his Word (Bible) or even his people (the church) if we truly want to know Christ. You can't skip out on time with Jesus and know him!!!
As we grow, instead of falling for lies we will speak the truth in love.
We will, consequently, grow in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of the church (there it is again).
*How can one legitimize staying away from church? Hey, if you want to home school, go ahead. But home church is a rebellious spirit that was not in God's plan, nor is it in the teaching of God's Word.
v.16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does what it was designed for so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
Love is the sign of a mature church. Sure, it may take some churches some time to be classified as loving or mature, but that doesn't mean we stop trying. It's plain and simple to see that it is God's plan. Finally, I'll say again, to be separate from the body (the church) is to be separate from the head (Christ).
Take up for the church. Help the church. Advance the church. Pray for the church.

Trainable, Coachable, Hungry

2011-09-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

What's missing? I watched a short segment on the making of a great Quarterback. It was a pretty cool behind the scenes look that went all the way back to when the guy was in college. He was tall, skinny and slow. Worst of all, he was seventh on the depth chart when he started college. (That means 7th string! Not second or third, but seventh!) He got appendicitis and lost almost thirty pounds, but didn't give up. In a time when most young men would have just quit, he took counsel with the on campus adviser. He would go many days to this man seeking counsel and encouragement. He told him that he wanted to be the Michigan QB. His sophomore season, Tom Brady went on to become the UM quarterback. (He has since done some pretty good things in the NFL.) ---But what got me about the story was what the counselor said about Brady. He was trainable, coachable and hungry. He went to that (in this case)emotional resource for strength and encouragement almost every day. ---I couldn't help thinking about what goes in to being a champion. Are we trainable? Can a person listen and follow instruction, and adapt? Are we coachable? Will one submit to the leader of the team?---For me, these were easy checks since I grew up in sports and following the leader, listening, learning. One of my favorite sayings has been "A good player always adjust." But the third thing was "hunger." In my spiritual life how hungry am I? Can I not wait to wake up and spend time with God? Can I not wait to hear from God? This was a tougher box to check. I sought God out in prayer. I had to confess that I had fallen into default status of sometimes going through the motions. God heard my simple prayer and answered. He restored my hunger for Him instantly. ---Perhaps, you have been distracted or knocked off course for some reason. Seek God and you will find Him. Give Him the choice time of day. ---I read a very sad commentary on Israel in Isaiah 43:22 where they had gotten tired of God. Whoa! If we are not hungry for God, then that is problematic. If you're not hungry, then you're not eating. And if you're not eating, you're not growing.
LORD, I am hungry for You and I want more of You.

Not Every Church

2011-09-22T12:00:00.001-07:00

Just had lunch with someone that told me the reason they got back in church was because someone asked them how they were tithing, and they were convicted on the spot. Wow! However, this made me begin to think about the many Christians that have left the church. There are bunches of reasons people get out on church. The church did these evil killing crusades years ago (not every church). Churches are all about building big buildings to see how many butts they can hold(not every church). Some pastor ran off with the secretary (not every church). They play old hymns at that church (not every church). They play that rock and roll music at that church (not every church). They are always talking about money down at the church (not every church). They aren't concerned with helping the community (not every church). You get the picture. Anyone could insert their excuse for leaving the church. I'm sure it has nothing to do with being lazy, wanting to keep all your money, living for yourself, or the fact that you just can't get along with people.
So what do people do? They rip the church to shreds verbally (piously) forgetting that the church (some of them)is first on the scene to help people. Churches have started hospitals, schools, soup kitchens, disaster relief teams and on it goes. Some of these folks quit on church, which is a real good answer. They just meet with some friends for an occasional token Bible study to feel good or justify their inability to go along and get along. They take sniper shots at the church. Yet, God has gifted the church to get out together and spread the Gospel.
Why go to church?
Christ is the head of the church. To be separated from the body of Christ, the church, then one is separated from the head, Christ. If Christ is no longer the head of the church one is serving in, then that is an issue. Leaving church all together is not the answer. People make up the body of Christ, therefore there is as much potential for evil as good. Jesus himself said that the gates of hell will not prevail against the church. A well-oiled (in the Holy Spirit), unified (in Christ) church has access to all the power that God offers. Christians should want to be on part of that team.
Yeah, I might not "do it" the way some churches "do it", but I will answer to God (as pastor)for how I lead and they will answer to God for how they lead. Quit looking for excuses to not be a part of the church. Christ is the head, and as a follower of Jesus, every believer should be partnering with the church.
Pray for the church. Ask God for a place to serve. Fight the temptation to cause schisms. Satan does enough to cause division, we don't need fellow Christians ripping up the big, fat, easy target known as the church. Church work can get messy as we cross into the world. It's a challenge. But next time, you think about saying something bad about the church; remember, the church is the bride of Christ. Pray. Repent of your evil thoughts and get back in church.
Let me pull a Columbo here (for those old enough to know him), one more thing. Be fair. Treat the church the way you treat Walmart or a restaurant after some bad service...you know you end up going back Because they've got what you need. Hello, the church has what you need! Find the one you can serve in and with. God bless.

The Problem With the Mythical Jesus

2011-09-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

The Problem With the Mythical Jesus

Wow! Just read the banter back and forth between religious people (some said they were Christians) and non-religious people (some admitted to be atheists) on a blog about the decline of church attendance.
Unsurprisingly, there was a little bit of love in there and a lot of hate. It just goes to prove that religion itself is a divide in the world.
Before I get to the main subject of this blog, I must say that I do not defend religion. Religions are made up. I am a follower of the one they call Jesus. If the world wants to classify the following of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior as a religion, then by the world definition I do try to be dedicated and religious to that following. I say that just to separate from the word religion. Jesus was not fond of religion. Three of the four times Jesus mentioned religion, it was not commending.
As concerning the church, it has not always been reflective of Jesus who is the head of the church. Unfortunately, men who did not listen to the Holy Spirit of God have led individual churches to do very bad things. There is plenty of reason for the haters to hate on the church, because of such history. However, that should not discount who Jesus is, nor should it discount the great work that many churches have done throughout history as they were following the leadership of Christ. Many of the hospitals and educational institutions were started by churches. Taking care of the sick and educating people are important to the church. Feeding the hungry and clothing the poor are also great attributes of the church most often left out in such blogs.
Oh, there is so much to say here, but I did want to address the problem with the mythical Jesus. You see, one can hate on God...hate on the church. A person can say people are morons to believe about Jesus and whatever.
However, to claim that Jesus is mythical then one has to claim that Abraham Lincoln or George Washington is mythical. There is more documentation to substantiate the existence of Jesus than these two men.
To say that Jesus was mythical, one has to say that David, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and many others were mythical. Personally, that doesn’t sound very intelligent to me. I know it may be tough to stomach the miracles that Jesus performed, but the people back in his day(who actually saw them) believed them. He did so many, it was undeniable. So, why won’t he do one more for you, right? Well, God wants those to come to Him to come by faith. The miracles back then were for those that needed to know, to pass the Good News along. Miracles do still happen today, but just as then, as God deems necessary.
If you want to argue, just don’t call Jesus mythical. He was here. He walked the earth. (That’s why every religion in the world has to do something with Jesus. Right or wrong, they acknowledge Jesus because his existence is undeniable.) He confessed that he was the son of God, that is exactly why he was crucified(in public by the way). On the other side of that, he told his followers several times (before it happened) that he would be crucified and raised again on the third day. You can hate. But he said it, and he did it. Over 500 witnesses saw and talked to the resurrected Jesus over a forty day period before he ascended to heaven. You don’t have to believe. However, people believe plenty of things without that many witnesses. You then have to believe that his followers were complete morons, because many died for this belief. Oh, unless you believe that is mythical as well.
Why don’t you just tell the truth? You don’t want to believe in Jesus, because somewhere down deep in your own heart (even without knowing Scripture), you know that Jesus calls you to die to self and to live for Him.
You don’t want to love God with all your heart and with everything you’ve got, because that would make you second place. Hey, that is human nature. That is what we all fight. But that was Jesus’ number one command. The second was to love your neighbor as yourself. We’ve all been helped by someone at sometime or another. That is pretty cool. This is exactly what Jesus told us to do. Jesus=Cool
If what you believed were not true, would you want to know the truth? I hope so.

Still Bugging Me

2011-09-15T07:39:00.000-07:00

(see previous blog on Richard Branson)
Richard kept saying "if someone could convince me to believe in God, then I would."
As much as I want to believe that I can't.
From Norm to Richard:
Of all the near death experiences you've had, you of all people have come close to meeting your Maker. I know, I know you believe in Evolution. You think it is bizarre that anyone does not believe in Evolution. Richard, the biggest reason to believe in Evolution is to not believe in Creation. And the biggest reason to deny a Creator is so one does not have to submit to this Creator and can live this life doing whatever they want with no consideration of God and men. The First Cause and First Stuff arguments pretty much ruin Evolution for me. ---Enough on Evolution for now.
Again, you said that if someone could convince you then you would believe. You did make a statement about different religions in the world being an issue for you, and also religious people not being very kind and giving was an issue. ---Richard you can find a bunch of loonies any place in the world and mixed up with any religion. Please don't group everyone together. Any religion, including Christians have and can do things to turn people off. I hate this. I'm sorry for this. But you are dealing with imperfect people. Hey, I'm sure you are a good person and have probably made a few mistakes.
Let me cut to the chase, "Richard, to you who is Jesus?"
You might say a good person...some religions recognize him as a prophet or great teacher. Here are some things we know about Jesus, he walked the earth. He had a great reputation. He was known for helping the needy, and doing the things that I think you would agree were right. He would definitely be someone others could follow by example and the world would be a better place. Right? Yeah, I think you would agree with that. ---Did you know that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and claimed to be the only way to get right with God? Here's the line in the sand. Jesus was either who he said he was...God...or he was a big, fat liar. Thus, a decision has to be made by us. Will I accept Jesus for who he said he was or not? We need to get right with God, because we've all sinned...nobody's perfect. And Jesus offers that opportunity. He was crucified naked in public. Read about it. He was resurrected three days later, and hung around for forty days and over 500 people at various times and places witnessed this.
Hey, I'm not looking to convince you or anyone in one sitting. Read about Jesus. Find a quiet place and ask the God of heaven to reveal Himself to you. Listen.
God will reveal himself to those who sincerely seek Him. Now, if you're just messing around then forget about it.
Last thing, Richard, you've been on some amazing adventures. Right now, you are looking to go into outer space. That's pretty awesome. How cool would it be to have a real relationship with the God who made all the stuff you have experienced more than most men. Be honest, how many times have you been up in the air or on the water and said "Wow, or Oh God!"? That kind of creation doesn't just happen. You see the design. It's not a series of luck. And I think it no mistake that you are still alive. God has given you many second chances. You have a voice. Come to Christ. Forget about those people with purple hair and a ton of make up and that hold up signs of hate...that is not what being a Christian is all about. It is about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ who will then show you what to do next. You are God's masterpiece, Richard. Read Ephesians 2:8-10 Peace and love to you.

Culture News

2011-09-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

Richard Branson----Entrepreneur
Believer in evolution.
Had more near-death experiences than most people.
He said he's not sure if he believes in God.
If someone could convince him then he might.
Religious people seem to be the turn off. They aren't always nice and don't (in his opinion) seem to care for the poor.
This leads to the old "why would I want to be like that?"-attitude. I can understand that partly.
Yet, we're always going to be around stupid people that do stupid things. I hate it when Christians do stupid things. Yet, that doesn't eradicate the absolute truth of the Scriptures. It doesn't erase that Jesus is God, and that He came and died in public on a cross for the sins of man. It does not eliminate the resurrection.
If what you believe is not true would you want to know the truth?
My advice: sincerely seek the God of the Bible, because He says that if you will sincerely seek Him, then you will find Him. Jer.29:13
I will pray for Sir Richard to come to know this Christ the way that I know Him.
*watched him interviewed on Piers Morgan

The Way to Peace

2011-09-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

2 Cor. 13:11 Paul closes his letter with this:
Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each others. Live in harmony and peace.
Joyful is something you are (be) knowing who you are in Christ.
Growing in maturity is something you do by abiding in Christ.
Encouraging others is what we do to edify the whole body of Christ so that we collectively grow.
Live in harmony and peace for this keeps us together.
THEN the God of love and peace will BE with you (as a church).
I am most joyful when I am living in obedience to Christ.
I grow in maturity by walking in Christ daily: prayer, obedience, in His Word, witnessing, etc.
Others are encouraged by a simple word from you and me. (call, text,email, meet with)
Harmony and peace are most readily available when I die to self.
<> So as I daily do these things and others daily do these things, collectively as a church we will experience the God of love and peace!
The way to peace travels through love.

Aging Gracefully

2011-09-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ugh! I just realized it's my last day in my forties.(and I'm not talking about the temperature) Such times (half a century) cause those of us with reflective tendencies to do just that...reflect. Today, polishing off Sunday's sermon and sending stuff out to the small group leaders for next week. Checking the calendar and making sure we're on target with the things the church is up to. Making final preparations for a wedding this weekend. Getting ready for my youngest daughter's wedding in a couple of weeks. Talking with a fellow pastor about a joint project next Easter. Pondering what God has in store for the next few years. Hmmm. Deep stuff. I still feel 35ish, but my body reminds me that this is not true. I have a new respect for those that have gone on ahead of me gracefully. I'm not sure I can do this gracefully. Yuck.Tomorrow is coming. I'll accept it. I'll assume my position as gray-haired counselor and advisor to those that will listen. I still might try to get in a pick-up basketball game, but won't try to dunk any more. Dang. Hey, I'm satisfied with the opportunities God has given me to this point. From here on out it will be different types of opportunities, and what lies ahead is promising. I'm reminded of what the Preacher in Ecclesiastes said "this is what matters, fear the Lord and obey God." There is nothing new under the sun. I just want to finish strong.
Well, guess I'll go change the spark plugs in the Sub.
Oh, in this just in after I had written this somewhat depressing blog: God reminds me that I'm not from around here. I am buried with Christ in his death, I am resurrected with Christ in his resurrection, and I am seated with him in the heavenlies. Bam! I'm not from around here. Just passin' through!

Happy Anniversary Baby

2011-08-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

I would love to say that I've got it all figured out...that I'm the best husband...yaddi yadda yaddi. And that's how our marriage has thrived for these many years. What I have learned is there is always more to learn. I'm the best husband when I've died to self. Amazing, just what the Bible teaches (Eph.5). A man is to sacrifice for his wife as Christ sacrificed for the church. I didn't say I do that all the time. I said, life is great when I do actually do that. My wife is awesome, but we are completely different people. (on almost every issue known to man...haha, but true). So, we'll have discussions periodically in the marriage when our differences rise to confliction. (I know that's not a word, but it fits.) And we'll both work on being different...being what the other person needs. And just like clock work, if I'm really trying or she is really trying, then the other one will push the buttons. You know the buttons that just ... well you know. ---What I'm saying is marriage is work. It is love mixed in with a whole lot of commitment. There is no plan B or D for that matter. When you make that kind of commitment, you have to work things out. Happy Anniversary baby, and thanks for sticking with me on this crazy ride. Let's keep on keepin' on and one day we'll figure it out. I am blessed to take this journey with you. Love ya.

How do I focus in prayer for 30 minutes?

2011-08-29T08:21:00.001-07:00

How do I focus in prayer for 30 minutes?

1. You need a quiet place, because you don't want the regular distractions that come from noise and traffic.(sight)
2. You can certainly do this with your eyes open. Praying with your eyes closed is kind of a western culture thing. It's good, but not necessary.
3. Calm your spirit, because you do speak to the LORD, and He speaks to you spirit to spirit. (1 Cor.2)
4. Read a Psalm. Sometimes that can be calming. Ps.46:10 says, "Be still and know that I am God."
5. Have pen and paper ready for when God speaks. Just write it down, don't worry about figuring out what it means. Pray for discernment. If He lays the name of a person on your heart then pray for them. Sometimes I will send the person a note or call and let them know that God put them on my heart and I prayed for them. (Sometimes they will tell you why or just thank you.)
6. Since this is a new habit, you might have to stand up or something to keep you from nodding off. Certainly don't attempt this at bed time. Be fresh we you spend time with God. Don't give Him the scraps of your day. (He knows!)
7. Don't hog up the prayer time. Pray what is on your heart, and then shut up and listen for God.
8. Talk to Him as face to face.
9. Don't be discouraged. Satan will throw every distraction your way to keep you from praying like this, because he knows the power of prayer. Stand firm!

God's Groove

2011-08-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

It was tough, but I took a little break from writing while on vacation. Teresa and I had a great time on a laid-back "no-shoes" vacation. It was simple and perhaps boring(to others), but we both enjoyed this time. Listening to music was one of the constants. Funny that one of the most spiritual moments came while listening to a Michael Jackson song. I don't even remember the song (listening to Pandora), but it was recorded live. It was really cool, because the audience was getting into the song and he just shut up and you could hear hundreds (probably thousands) of people singing his song. I commented to Teresa on how cool that must be. The previous week at church I could actually hear the audience singing (almost over the band) which is tough to do at the sound-unfriendly cafeteria (worshipatorium). I digress. Anyway, Teresa had great insight (or lucky, we'll give her insight) she agreed it was cool, but she said "How do you think the writer/artist of the song feels when a large group of people sing their song in unison?" Bam! ---All this time, we've been talking about God being the artist and us being His masterpiece (Eph.2:10); and she has been working with the Kidz during church all this time. She's so smart! ---Imagine that: how does God feel when we are singing His song? I think He smiles. Come on. His song is on your lips. Sing it. You know it. Sing the song we all know loud and together. Get into God's groove.

Take the Long Way

2011-08-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

Satan took Jesus up on the peak of a mountain to lie to him...I mean to tempt him. No I mean lie to him, because that's what he does. He gets us a long way from something, where we can't necessarily hear or see the truth and he either suggests stuff or flat out lies to us. If he can get us all wound up with anxieties before we meet with other people or deal with a situation he has succeeded. Anxieties, worries and fear often stem from believing the suggestions of doubt that Satan throws at us when the distance of time or place stand between us and the event or people. Discouragement is not from God. He will also take us to the peak of the mountain lying to us about what he will give us. What he's really doing is distracting us from doing God's will. He talks short-cuts and God's people like everyone likes a good short-cut. Yet, when we take short-cuts we circumvent God's will; and this usually leads to a longer way. Message: don't listen to the lies, the distractions or promises of short-cuts. Take the long way, instead of an even longer way laced with trauma and assorted flavors of junk. God doesn't use short-cuts. He knows we need the character building that takes place on the long way.

The Real Real World

2011-08-15T21:33:00.000-07:00

Something just snapped. I just read an article where two politicians (President&TeaPartier) got into heated discussion and name calling and didn't really have a fruitful discussion. This is the epitome of what has gotten this country into a quagmire. Two sides who believe passionately different things would rather engage in name-calling attempting to discredit the other's right to even have an opinion. Thus, real conversation, which could lead to answers and actually solve critical problems, never takes place. Consequently, our nation is held hostage.---In the real world we have to talk things out. I remember back in my retail sales days, when customer satisfaction was #1; I felt our company went too far. I remember having to give a sure-enough crazy lady a set of mag wheels for free, because the company didn't want to argue with her (she was way wrong, but I submitted to the man). On another occasion, I remember a man coming in mad, because the tire he just bought had blown out. (FYI: tires don't just blow out.) I was polite and calmly inspected the tire and showed the man (who showed his rear-end) the nail that punctured the tire. He said, that it was still my fault. I turned my head, took a deep breath and exhaled. That's what you do in the real world. You can't just call people names and discredit them and not deal with a situation. I asked the man, "Sir, what do you think I should do?" He said he wanted a free tire. The showdown took place in a packed showroom. The man made a real jerk of himself, and I could feel the compassion the other customers had for me "just doing my job." I didn't say a word. (I was torqued, but didn't show it.) As the manager, I knew the buck stopped with me. We weren't calling the home office on this one. I went outside, worked my tension off by doing a little manual labor. I handled it and told him to have a nice day. He looked slightly embarrassed, but still hot. ---Sometimes you have to lose to win in the real world. Honestly, I hoped that guy went to my competitors next time. But I had a packed showroom of customers that would be loyal to me. You see, in the real world we have to deal with stuff. We can't call people names. Washington has totally forgotten who the customer is, and has no idea what customer satisfaction is! I think it would be pretty cool if they used my crappy insurance for a year. In the real world, we pay high premiums, high deductibles and monthly doctor bills. I just wished they would get together and talk about it. Every time, EVERY TIME, I ever had my assistant manager come get me and tell me we had an angry customer at the counter, I had to talk to him/her. Do you know what I did? First of all, I listened. Secondly, I assumed that perhaps it was our fault. Even if I thought it wasn't because we were good at what we did; I always gave the customer the benefit of the doubt. Because if you assume something, well you know how that ends. Anyway, EVERY time, because I had the right attitude (here's the attitude: the cash register belongs to the customer.) I listened, empathized, and asked what it would take to solve their problem. And EVERY time, I dealt with it. You see, I had learned my lesson. If they call the 800Number, I'll be giving them the farm! But, it didn't have to be that way, if I just listened, and helped a brother out. It would pay off in the end. In the real world, we have to live together. We have to get along. ---This whole politician thing is played out. Get in a room, listen to each other. And for goodness' sake use just a little common sense. At this point, the American citizen couldn't give a rip which of you is right or wrong, we need somebody to do something. Do the right thing! Don't worry about getting re-elected...it probably ain't happening anyway! Be the hero, to your customer...the public.

"We're Trying to Do Something Around Here"

2011-08-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from Neh.4 Devotion: "Determination"
Nehemiah was trying to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. The first step was the wall. It was hard work (major understatement!). The city walls had been reduced to rubble, and the city had been burned down by the enemy. They had detractors and lived among the enemy. However, the people came together for a common cause for the LORD their God. They couldn't leave the job site. They could hardly rest. They held a weapon in one hand and a tool in the other hand. The work was very spread out so they had trumpets to call for help. They worked sunrise to sunset. During this time they didn't even change clothes. IT was hot, stinky, hard work but it had to be done. ---It was a season in life. They had to suck it up. Determination triumphed over an extreme situation.
Our church and other churches (led by faithful pastors) are trying to do something around here. We're trying to lift up the name of Jesus by doing what we do. Have you even broken a sweat doing the work of your church? Can you do more to lighten the load on another? Or can you step your game up to fill a current need in the church? Try to say "yes to the what", and not say "no" so quickly when called upon to serve. We're trying to do something here. We're trying to rebuild the relationships of men with God. It's called the ministry of reconciliation (2Cor.5). That's why we do what we do! Live with determination.

Barefoot and Baby

2011-08-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

I just drove past a cute teenage girl who was walking barefoot and carrying her beautiful baby. She looked 17-19. It's like 105 degrees outside. A few thoughts ran through my mind. Where's the daddy? Did her car break down? I looked ahead and saw no car. Could I give her a ride? But that thought was quickly dismissed. I would have been considered a perv. Plus, I didn't have a car seat, and that would have been illegal. All signs of the day that we live in. ---But back to where is the daddy and why is she in that situation? At 105 degrees this was no leisure walk, this was a had-to-get-somewhere walk. Dang it. Somewhere along the way she let some guy say what she wanted to hear to get what he wanted. Maybe her mom and dad ignored her, or since they were split up she was unsupervised or lacking limitation/boundaries. Obviously, I'm speculating. Her teenage husband could have had their only car while he was working hard at the Subway. Maybe I just wrote this to say, "Girls save it for marriage. Guys will say or do anything to get the sexual gratification they desire. Perhaps 1 of 10 won't, and that's the one guy you want. Teen pregnancy is a top reason for poverty in America. This kind of poverty is preventable, so save it.

Judge Not or Judge?

2011-08-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Often people will say that the Bible says not to judge people. These people have not read the Bible. It does tell us to not go around wagging our finger at people. There's an old saying "if you're pointing your finger at a person, then you have four more fingers pointing back at yourself." While that is not a Bible verse, it is pretty close to the biblical principle about not judging others. But the Bible does tell us to judge our selves and test ourselves to make sure we are in the faith (2Cr.13:5). But back to judging others. In 1 Corinthians 5 we're told that it is not our responsibility to judge those that are outside the church. These are people that are not saved, they are not Christians. ---I don't judge these folks at all, because sinners do what sinners do; and sinners will be going where sinners will be going. I am not even judging by using the name sinner. It is what it is. I used to be unsaved, lost, sinner, whatever word you want to use. I love folks that don't know Jesus, and I pray for them to come to saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. But now I've been saved, I've been set free in Christ as a believer! And as a believer, part of my responsibility and your responsibility is to judge those inside the church who are sinning. God will judge those outside the church. Now, I don't go around, nor do I care to go around pointing out people's sins; but I've come to find out that many Christians will blatantly sin in public, and that is where the problem is. So, I'm saying you don't have to go looking; it's right in front of you. For example, when people know that you and your girlfriend are both Christians and you are living together (I use this example for it is not hypothetical, but sadly prevalent in America today) your friends know about it. No one has to point it out. And if people know you claim to be a Christian then you are dragging the name of Christ through the mud. Consequently, why would your lost friends want to come to Christ when they can live like you without Christ. Also, when you come to church (while living this lifestyle) you're bringing unholiness into the church. It hinders the growth of the church. We're not talking about "goof-ups" and "slip-ups", but blatantly living against God's Word. LIFESTYLE. Yeah, I'm going to tell you about it if I know about it; because I'm supposed to. Better yet, your Christian friends have that responsibility as much as the pastor. So, don't chicken out and make the pastor go do it. In fact, that's gossip. If you know about it, go tell them, "Hey, if you say you're a Christian you ought not be doing that (whatever that is). "
Hear my heart. I love people and want to see all come to Christ. I hate it when people that claim to be Christians think they have some kind of deal with God and can live against God's Word. Also, I despise it when people come telling on someone to me. If you're a Christian, it is your responsibility to go to that brother and sister and ask them to step out of the church if they want to live a lifestyle against Christ. 1Cor.5:12,13- It isn't my responsibility to judge outsiders, but it certainly is your responsibility to judge those inside the church who are sinning. God will judge those on the outside; but as the Scriptures say, "You must remove the evil person from among you."---Don't come gossiping to me. Deal with it, and when I see it, I'll deal with it.
The purpose of this should be obvious. Believers are to live in Christ. If they are not living in Christ, then it is confusing to those that are not in Christ yet. It could turn people away from Jesus. Our talk to our brother and sister should be to try to restore them into the fellowship. But we must also protect the holiness of Christ's church. Finally, I know the church isn't perfect on any given Sunday; because it is filled with hypocrites. Yet, our goal is to see the justified become sanctified. Admittedly some cleaning up has to take place. That is a constant. So, be slow to judge, but help a brother out. Call him/her out. Hopefully, they will turn around and thank you later. God bless.

Our Town

2011-08-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

The church should be a blessing to "our town." Praise the LORD! We are seeing more and more of that. Some churches have been working steadily under the radar for years. This past week I saw more and more churches getting out of their building and loving on the community via ministry. Amen!---It's cool to see God work in mighty ways when people get out of their comfort zones or just die to self for a day. Check this simple story out and follow the money.
This is just one chapter of the $100 Challenge.
So a single person who has just a month or two left on their job (and currently seeking gainful employment in a crippled economy) gives the $100 which goes to one of our small groups. The small group leader checks with a local agency to get some new ideas that maybe haven't been done. They get connected to the Council on Aging which is about taking care of the elderly (which is what the church ought to be doing, hence a natural partner.). So this small group takes the $100 and bargains with retailers to get 7 fans. Meanwhile, the mother of one of the group members (who doesn't even go to church anywhere) hears about this and buys a fan making the total 8. Upon delivering the fans, the group finds out that this was a greater need than realized. The elderly folk showed up right away to get the fans. So we put a note about the need on the Living Truth Church facebook page to see if people would bring fans to church on Sunday. It was also part test. We wanted to see if people read the page and respond. One person brought a fan. [We showed that fan, and briefly mentioned the need. Of course, one could always say there are greater needs; but I encourage you to hold that thought when people are actually doing good.] Anyway, it looks like folks are responding to that need today. Atleast, 3 more fans are heading that way today and possibly more. At this point, probably 12+ fans will be given to elderly folks during this heat wave because people cared and responded. It's time to wake up America and take care of "our town". Let the church be the "hands and feet of Jesus" to our town, not the government. If you think you can't do much follow the money. $100 from one person has led to 12 fans and I don't think we're done yet. What if it were 50 fans delivered? ---And next time it's not fans, but another need that God's people can meet in "our town." You have to get involved before you care, and you have to care before you respond. But you have to respond or you didn't really care.

Twinkies at the Entrance

2011-08-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

Made a quick trip to the grocery store for just a few items, and got hit with a desire for twinkies and such at the entrance. Perhaps it was because they were in my face at the entrance. Oh, they looked so good, but I hung in there and walked on by. I then encountered the diet and "good-for-you" snacks. I wondered if the people that make the "fat" snacks are also responsible for the "diet" snacks. As I was able to muster enough courage to walk by both and chase down what I went for, I thought...What if America is beginning to catch up to the FAT lie we've been fed for years? What if we started eating right? What if we started exercising? What if we quit spending so much money on things we don't need? We would be in better shape. [period]---I'd love to bring this into a spiritual lesson, and could, but I'm just going to leave it right there. America needs to wake up. We're stupid. ---

Hall of Fame

2011-08-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

The NFL Hall of Fame is not something I would normally watch. I'm not into any kind of award's shows. But I got caught up listening to some former athletes that were pretty good speakers. So when I saw "Prime Time" (Deion Sanders) coming up I waited to watch. Wow! He didn't disappoint. He started off thanking all of his spiritual mentors which was a long list.---But what got my attention was this: he thanked the coach that kicked him off the team in high school for disciplinary reasons. He also thanked his agent who would tell him the cold, hard truth.---More of us need to look at the truth and discipline we encounter in life with a thankful heart. ---While affirmation and encouragement are needed and we should be passing that out liberally, many of us need to embrace the abrasiveness associated with the truth, even when it may not be total truth. (Deion said he didn't do what he was accused of in high school, but realized how the discipline taught him life lessons that made him the man he came to be.) What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. When you get knocked down get back up. Your reaction is more important than the accusation. Listen to the truth and adjust in life.

Gotta Get Out More

2011-08-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

Wow! I haven't been to the cinema in a while. I haven't had that movie theater popcorn, $5 Coca-colas or cushy seating in a while. But the thing that got me was the movie trailers. I don't know if it's just me, the preacher in me or what. As I watched each trailer, it was the same old story...the world needs a Savior. Oh, Hollywood reshapes the heroes, but it's the same ole same ole thing unless it's a comedy or horror flick. It was just a reminder that God has hidden within mankind the need for a Savior. And each hero in the movies requires us to give a little bit of faith. Have you noticed that? How did the bullets miss the hero? How come the bad guys can never shoot straight? We have to cut the hero some slack and say "it's just a movie." They all fall short. I'm thankful that my true Hero didn't fall short. ---Pretty awesome reminder. These guys are cute and entertaining, but far from the Real Deal.

Too Much of a Good thing

2011-08-05T10:55:00.000-07:00

I know it's really hot now, but I love living in Florida. There is fun in the sun. There's the beach, the lakes, rivers, baseball, football, even shopping. But let me remind those who claim to follow Christ, not to get too much of a good thing. If you're not careful before too long you will find yourself worshiping the created versus the Creator. That's really a bad thing to do if you know your Bible, and God will cut you loose to do so. Before you know it, you are way down stream wondering what happened. Be careful on putting all those weekends together away from God and His church. Repent. Recommit to God first and "me" second. After all, God did make that beautiful weekend. :)

The Whole Body

2011-08-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

We hear and read a lot about the Apostle Paul and his exploits for the Kingdom of God. In his farewell (Romans 16) he sheds some light on many of the faces in ministry that served behind the scenes and out of the limelight. Here are some words that described these people: teachers, leaders, host homes, hospitable, risk-takers, prisoners for Christ, hard-working, fellow-workers (good teammates), lovable, convert, tested and tried, women who worked hard, some that worked even harder, chosen to be there for him, mother-to-me, brothers, and saints.
His only warning: stay clear of those that cause division.
His final words: The revelation of the Gospel through Scriptures is so that all men might believe in Him and obey Him.
<>It takes a bunch of people and a variety of people to do all that it takes to reach the world for Christ with the Gospel. Just be faithful in doing your part right now, right where you are. Tomorrow will take care of itself.
*It takes the whole body!

Man in the Mirror

2011-07-31T20:56:00.000-07:00

We've never done it this way before---I love saying that because most churches can't or worse, they won't. I led out in this 4-Part Series this morning. Some of our guys: Jared Owens, Andy DeGuire and Pat Butler are going to finish the series which will do a few things. It will free me up to prepare for our Fall focus, but it will be good for these guys to bring the Word before our crowd.
---This morning in "God's Masterpiece" coming from Ephesians 2:10 the listeners were challenged specifically to stop and look in the mirror. At this point in life, are you living up to what God had in mind when He made you? Well, are you? Be honest. Also, be aware that God has some pretty lofty plans FOR you, that are not ABOUT you. That sounds like a bummer, but it's really cool. God had Kingdom of God kind of things in mind for you when He hand-crafted you! So, what are you going to do? I highly recommend you jump on board for the ride of your life. ---Oh, and that stuff in your life that you keep getting hung up on. Get over it, so you can get to where God wants to take you. Peace out.
Come hear Jared next week talk about the "Program."
Can't wait.

$100 Challenge Update

2011-07-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

The first of January Living Truth accepted the $100 Challenge. It was simply a challenge from God to be obedient and giving. It is changing our culture. By now we've given over $3000 (a $100+ at a time). Be sure to view the Youtube video below.
Here are the ways we've helped so far:
provided coats and winter clothes for children at East Milton Elementary School
provided needed items, such as socks, for prisoners
provided needed supplies for Santa Rosa Kids House
provided needed supplies for Favor House shelter for abused women
ticket to Sea World for young heart patient, Gracelynn
paid water bill for single mom and elderly woman
survival kits for the homeless at the Ferris Hill Baptist cold weather shelter
financial assistance & leave time for a coworker
gift card for Sacred Heart Children's Hospital
provided needed supplies to Loaves & Fishes soup kitchen
provided needed supplies to Family Promise
helped pregnant high school girl
assisted family met through Godmobile with power bill
helped a single mom with gas money/grocery money
helped a single mom at WalMart with groceries
helped a family at Helping Hands mission with rent
Mother's Day gift bags for moms at Family Promise
and much more since then. See the video (and review JHo's 2 Cents for the story)
http://youtu.be/EL4VSyKax80
Joel's 2 cents:

Our pastor, Norman Sullivan, presented our church with a 52-week mission that he calls "The $100 Challenge". The idea is designed around the premise that Jesus Christ expects his followers to be deliberate in meeting the needs of others and being blessings on this Earth.

So, each week, a different individual in our church gives $100 to the church. Then, in turn, one of our small bible study groups accepts the $100 challenge. The group has one week to carry out their mission with that $100: to bless others within our community and outside the walls of our church in a very practical, real kind of way.

In the Bible, James proclaims "... faith without deeds is DEAD." That's not our kind of faith. Our faith is ALIVE. WE are alive. As believers, we are called to share the love of Jesus with others.

If God is spurring you on to take part in the $100 challenge—either through giving or through serving—we encourage you to put feet to your faith and connect with your small group bible study leader or with Pastor Norm... at www.livingtruthchurch.com.

Prayer and Understanding (a Devo)

2011-07-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

For from HIm and through Him and to Him are all things. To HIm be the glory forever! Amen.---Rom.11:26
Thank you God for your incredible mercy. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you that You are considerate at all of man. Thank you that You wanted us to be a part of this. Help your servant bring you glory in this lifetime.
(Understanding Eph.2:10 )Help me stay on the easel; for I am the canvas; and you are the artist; and You make a masterpiece of men. As people stand in awe of these masterpieces, so shall they bow before the Master Artist!---Understanding who we are in Christ Jesus and that our purpose is to bring glory to the Father, not us; this brings proper perspective to this life.

Finished Questions

2011-07-26T21:49:00.001-07:00

Wow! Just finished the Spring series of sermons dealing with often asked questions about the Bible. I hope that all learned to study their Bible...to read things in context and compare Scripture to Scripture. If there is one or two verses that seem different than what the rest of the Bible teaches, then it would be a good idea to dig deeper. Also, just use plain old common sense. God is not trying to be tricky. He is not trying to fool anyone with His Word. Words like anguish and torment mean anguish and torment no matter how that might hurt our feelings. Words like eternal life mean eternal life. Saved by grace through faith means saved by grace through faith. ---Most problems arise because people don't like the answers to the questions. There is a book called "The Difficult Sayings in the Bible." Personally, I think there should be a book called "Easy Sayings in the Bible" because it is a lot easier than some people make it out to be. Study hard...errr...just read the Bible for all it's worth.

Gold to Bronze

2011-07-26T06:49:00.000-07:00

2 Chronicles 12 After King Rehoboam had established himself and all was going well in Judah, he and all Israel abandoned the law of the LORD. This is basic 101 in human life. When all is going well people tend to turn inward and away from God. They forget how well things were going while they were faithfully serving God. FYI: worshiping and serving God is practically the same thing. And if we think serving someone or something is harsh or abusive, then take time to realize we all worship or serve someone or something. Sometimes we worship ourselves! From this passage one should garner that it is a better life when we worship/serve God. We were meant to do so, and the world flows better when we do so. ---Back to our story: the people had abandoned the LORD, so God abandoned them. Fair enough. It happens. Expect it. But KIng Rehoboam and the leaders (after hearing from a prophet who heard from God: you see God was still trying to help the rebellious people.) humbled themselves before the LORD and the LORD stopped King Shishak of Egypt from totally destroying them. Instead they would pay taxes instead of blood (to put it bluntly). v.8 "They will be subject to him (Shishak) SO THEY MAY LEARN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SERVING ME AND SERVING THE KINGS OF OTHER LANDS." --so was the message God passed on through the prophet. Another one of the crazy cycles amongst men: God blesses his faithful servants, then his servants take those blessings and worship or absorb them; and stop serving the ONE who got them there. They cry out. Humble themselves. God hears them. Receives them back. But they've paid a price. ---*Most people don't like the idea of serving somebody, but we all serve somebody; whether it is God, self, or some other god of this world. At Israel's peak of serving God, they were also at the peak of strength and wealth in the world. Unfortunately, when there's not a war to fight men become unfocused on the ONE who got them to peace. That is where everyday faithfulness comes in. How faithful in service/worship to God are you when everything is going great? ---When comparing serving God to abandoning God, this passages gives a vivid illustration. In vv.9-11: King Shishak didn't wipe Judah out, but stole all the treasures from the temple and palace. The beautiful gold shields that Solomon had made were taken, and Rehoboam replaced them with bronze shields. When we serve someone other than the true God we can expect delays, destruction and downgrades. Gold to bronze. When you are serving God faithfully you are serving the true Master and Creator of the entire Universe who loves you and wants what is best for you. He is constantly upgrading his faithful servants. Don't grow weary in well doing. Stay focused. Worship the LORD your God only. Give seconds and scraps of time, money and talent to the other things in this world.

Made my heart melt

2011-07-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

So I had no official duties tonight and no meetings. After a full day of studying and preparing for some stuff and watching computer tutorials practicing with a new program, I was mentally pooped. A night off would be great. Instead I decided to go be around some of our peeps. I went to the cpr group known as the "misfits" (their name of choice). I figured there would be ten to twelve people there. So, I drive up (fashionably late) and there are cars all over the place. Something was going on! I get inside and there is every aged person represented, and it was like a party atmosphere. They were eating and eating good! My heart melted. They were doing life together... kids and all! When the Bible study started, it didn't seem to faze anyone when a small child might walk by, or if someone talked maybe a little too long. They listened respectfully and moved on. ---It was good to be in the house of the Lord. These folks had church. There must have been 30 plus people up in that house! I'm glad I got out. * Perhaps this is a note for all of us, when we think we've had a rough day and deserve a break; it's always refreshing to be in the presence of those that know the Lord. Fellowship, food, friends, Bible, prayer...sweet. My heart melted. ---the key to all groups being like this: know you're a misfit, then everyone fits in. Peace out. Kudos to Pat Butler and his group. Thanks for letting me be your pastor.

Can't ain't a word

2011-07-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

Don't tell me why we can't do something, let's figure out how together.---Can't ain't a word. I don't know why spellcheck is underlining "ain't" with a red squiggly line. Oh well. ---At Living Truth Church, we're trying to do something around here. Many say or think it can't be done. However, as best I understand it Jesus Christ has given us a command...a mandate... to go and tell the world. We're committed to doing whatever it takes to reach this community and the world beyond for Jesus Christ...because He said so!---So when we try to step up and do something at the next level for His glory, and somebody tells me why we can't do that...I'm just telling you right now...I take issue with that. It is not "can we do it?", but "we must do it." I don't like slackers and I don't like whiny people that tell me why we can't do something. Especially when I look around the corner or across town or across the country and somebody else is doing it. ---Point and case, recently (vagueness to hide identities) I wanted something done at church (we meet in a school. some would see this as an excuse. we view it as a blessing. some would not consider that a real church, because it's not our building. as a church without a building we've led over a thousand people to Christ. so if we're a real church or not well. Let Christ be the judge.) Whoops I digressed! So I wanted something done at church that would have taken some creativity and some work. Right away someone told me why we couldn't pull that off. I ignored that person and found a "can-do" person and walked away. i went about my business and returned to check the progress of the "un-doable thing", and before I could say rumplestiltskin, voila! My thing that couldn't be done was done! All of our churches need people that help us figure out how to do whatever needs doing, not those that tell us why we can't. ---Next time you think about telling your Pastor why you or the church can't do something, think again. A Pastor worth his salt will bypass you and seek out those that can next go around. LTC is going somewhere. We're going with or without you. ---My prayer is that all Great Commission churches do likewise. God bless.

Was Satan in the Garden?

2011-07-16T18:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, we hear the serpent readily called Satan in the Garden of Eden story. Why is that done? How do we get away with that? I was reading a CNN article where a guy was busting off on preachers saying Satan was in the Garden. Funny, the author of that article didn't pursue the evidence (oh that would be close to real journalism). Not to be too hard on the guy, he was listing often misquoted verses...those things people credit to the Bible that might be close to a real verse while others aren't even close. The story about Satan/serpent was his hook to get people to read the article. I agree with all the other verses he talked about(I shared most of them in a recent "How to Study the Bible" seminar), but it is a shame he fell short; because he could have just left this out. ---Since we "long-winded" preachers have to edit somewhere an often "given" or assumption is that people understand the serpent as being used by Satan from the remainder of Scriptures. So, here you go concerning Genesis3 : The text here does not, by itself alone, clearly identify the serpent as Satan, but the rest of the Bible makes it clear this is Satan appearing as a serpent.In Ezekiel 28:13-19 tells us that Satan was in Eden. Many other passages associate a serpent or a snake-like creature with Satan (such as Job 26:13 and Isaiah 51:9). Revelation 12:9 and 20:2 speak of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan.---Scriptures clearly identify Satan as the culprit infiltrating the serpent in Eden. Need some more, in the passage known as the ProtoEvangelium (Gen.3:15) it refers to the serpent being crushed by the heel of the seed of the woman (Christ). Newsflash! That happened at the cross! CNN dude stick to the unreal news and leave the Good News to us.

Go ahead make______day

2011-07-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

So many of us get frustrated at things that we totally have no control over. People get down and out, even fall into depression because they can't control things in life. NewsFlash! Life is always going to be throwing stuff at you and I that we cannot control. At best we learn to navigate through them. Sometimes we spend a lifetime trying to figure them out. It can be an endless cycle if you get sucked into that Blackhole. ---How about trying something different? Do what you can to make the environment around you better. Pour good stuff into those around you, and sooner than later you will see good stuff coming out. It's easy to get frustrated, because there is always something or someone around the corner getting into "your" business. Instead of getting sucked in and falling into the old trap of blaming others for your problems, be proactive. Take charge. Do the best you can with what you've got. For your first baby step today, do one thing for one person today to make their day. Then start taking more steps. Soon you won't have time to be frustrated. Go ahead, make someone's day!

The Shipwreck that Wasn't a Shipwreck

2011-07-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

In Acts 28:1-10 (read preceding chapter)God's purpose is noticeably served through trials and suffering. Sailors, soldiers and prisoners were on a wild two-week ride battling a storm of hurricane magnitude. It was a physical, emotional and yes, even a spiritual battle. Every anxiety associated with being enclosed or on the open waters came to be. And then as the reality of being shipwrecked began to set in, orders came to start throwing things overboard starting with least importance. They were totally committed when the last of the food was tossed over board.---Fast-forward to the ship wreck and landing on shore (well swimming or riding a plankboard).Once they arrived safely on shore (no one hurt, no loss of life, no loss of prisoners, everyone accounted for---All God Thing)they found the island had a name and the people were hospitable. It just reminds me of those places that seem out of the way, just a dot on a map, and God knows they are there and the people have a name. The islanders prepare a fire to warm the island crashers up. In the middle of serving (helping with the fire) Paul is bitten by a venomous snake. It literally latches on to him. Immediately, the islanders believe that Paul must have been a murderer because why else would someone survive a shipwreck only to be attacked by a poisonous snake(bad theology-karma). But Paul was not hurt at all. So, then they think he is a god, so Paul and company get the real hospitality and are led to the home of the chief official of the island. The man's father was severely sick, and Paul heals him. Party is on, healing party that is! They bring all the sick on the island to Paul and he heals them. You know Paul preached some Jesus! So God used this shipwreck to get Paul to these "forgotten" people. He used the snake bite to get Paul the platform to speak and teach. I don't know who was running this boating excursion, but in a matter of a couple of weeks I can tell you that Paul was now the head man. How could that have happened so quickly? A great spiritual awakening took place on the island of Malta...not a ship wreck. They were there three months. Next time you get derailed...off course...shipwrecked...ask "What is God up to?" The purpose in all this: so the people of Malta (a forgotten, unknown people group) would come to know Christ. The God of the universe cared enough to send some wind at the right place, at the right time, with the right man, with the right attitude on the ship.

Proud of People

2011-07-11T06:42:00.000-07:00

It is such a wonderful thing to watch lives transform before your very eyes. God has an incredible purpose for each and every human being, yet only a few realize or actualize that purpose. It is great to see people serve with excellence the way God made them. They can do things the rest of us can't do or can't do as well. Monday morning, I reflected on all the things different people did the last week and on Sunday morning at church. Many of these people didn't know Christ as Savior that long. But as they have grown in their relationship with Christ, the skill-set God had prepared in them from the beginning has begun to shine. Thank you Jesus for people that step up,step out and step in. For Your church to reflect you very well, it will take a bunch of people being that very poem you had in mind at creation. Thank you for people.

Amazed That People

2011-07-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

I'm amazed that people can spend no time or little time in God's Word, praying, hearing God's Word at church; and then wonder why they aren't growing. None of us expect to know another person better by spending no time with them. If we want to get to know someone better, we have lunch with them or something like that. We ask questions...we talk and listen. But when it comes to God, people will drain down to nothing spiritually and wonder why. There is a reason we meet together at least once a week. WE NEED IT. Haven't you heard, the "spirit is willing but the flesh is weak"? You have to feed the spirit nature or the flesh will take over. We don't just "do" church. We are the church, and the church needs to kindle one another like kindling wood to a fire. If you are so desperate for God and that warm feeling you get when you are really close to God, then SPEND some TIME with GOD. ---And don't give me that I spend time alone with God. That's bologna, because if you spend time with God, He will send you out to the crowd. Read all the "one anothers'" in the Bible.

Why the Growth in the Summer?

2011-07-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

Why the Growth in the Summer?

A strange phenomenon is taking place right now. It’s summer and our church is growing. That doesn’t happen, normally. I don’t know for sure. Maybe every church is growing right now. I have some ideas. I think more people are serious and committed about their faith and the unity of the church has never been greater than it is right now at LTC. But I also know that more prayer is taking place than ever. I know personally I have been praying in “crisis mode” for our growth, because “if you ain’t growing you’re dying.” Dying would be a crisis to me. So, I’m praying like that and hope that you will adopt that prayer for Living Truth.
We’ve had a number of new people that have come into Living Truth and fallen in love right away. They are experiencing true worship and have observed authentic community. Those are code words that every church wants to hear. But you have to live it for it to really mean something. Pockets of our church are really living it. My encouragement to the rest of you is to jump on the bandwagon. There’s room! Invite people into your circle. Intentionally look for people that seem to be in search mode (even if they don’t look like you) and invite them in. Be consistent in a CPR Group. The greatest stories that I am hearing are coming from the people that are in love with their CPR Group. People are genuinely doing life together. Finally, be a proponent of unity within the church. Let’s go and bring the lost in and make disciples.

Don't stop what got you there

2011-07-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

It's been incredible thus far watching God fight for me on the 4C's(the 4 things that I am praying for in "crisis mode"). Today is kind of a holiday, and the temptation is to take the time off from my routine (that routine that has blessed me). So the temptation is to stop (even if it is for just a day)doing what got me to a better place. However, I am reminded Satan takes NO days off. I've got to be faster and stronger spiritually. Stick to the plan. So, I pray in crisis and be still and watch God fight for me (Ex.14:14).Meanwhile, I thank the God of heaven for His great mercy and intercession and deliverance and on I could go.

Cool Change

2011-07-01T13:42:00.001-07:00

What are you known for? Being a whiner...someone people can't count on...the person that's always late...the person that always makes excuses...the person that blames others...the person that always cancels at the last minute...the person that is too busy for friends or church... the person that's always needy...sketchy...always changing your mind...non-committal---Who is someone you admire? What are the qualities about them that you like?
Maybe it's time for a cool change.
Be the person God created you to be. Be the best at that.

Attic Prayer

2011-06-28T22:02:00.000-07:00

We've been talking about praying in crisis mode. We had the perfect example in small group tonight. A man in our group talked about his experience with Hurricane Ivan. Water rose so quickly at his house that he and his wife and some neighbors ended up in the attic. I asked him if he was praying "now I lay me down to sleep" prayers or " thank you for the food" kind of prayers; and of course we know the answer. So, if you need to know how to pray "I'm in a crisis crying out to God" kind of prayer; imagine yourself in the attic with rising water praying to the good Lord to call back the waters. ---Of course, his story didn't end there; God made amazing provisions like only God can do...when we cry out. How well do you know Him? We can experientially know God in a new way through crisis. Don't discount the crises in your life.

Who Cares?

2011-06-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

Warning: this is a sport's take so if that's not your bag you can pass on this one. (I just have to let it out every now and then.)
We just kept battling...we just kept chipping away...we just kept working...---just a few words you often hear from champions. (recently NBA, CWS)
It's funny how the NFLPA and the NFL representatives keep meeting secretly in different cities to solve their CBA (Greed Agreement). They would save time by staying in one city, in one hotel and carving out an agreement. Fans aren't going to stay loyal.
Who really cares, but Tiger ought to just sit out this year and get his head together and let his knee heal.
Play like you mean it.
Preach like you mean it.
Pray like you mean it.

Experientially Know God Thru Crisis

2011-06-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

Crisis offers us the opportunity to know God in a way we never knew Him before. Are you satisfied with how well you know God? Is He faraway to you? Is He just a story book God to you? There is purpose in crisis. Here are five things to do to get you unstuck and to help you know God in a greater or more intimate way.

1.Identify the Crisis

2.Be honest that you've tried everything but crying out to God kind of prayer.

3.Pray like you've really ticked some people off, they're chasing you and now you're trapped with no way out---your life is in danger.

4. As God delivers you, stop and admire the moment. Be still and know God.

5. Give praise and be loyal to the God who loves you so much to deliver you.

The same God that fought for Israel (Ex.14:14) will fight for you. Be still.

<> Do these things or stay stuck where you've been the last year, 5, 10, 20 years.

I hope you'll do this. God will change your world.

For more: listen to "Unstuck"

http://livingtruthchurch.com/podcasts.htm

The Young&Restless, and the Old&Weary

2011-06-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

Eleven years in the Pastorate and thirty years in ministry combined puts one in a place where they've seen a lot of stuff to celebrate and a lot of heartache. I have noticed a disturbing trend the last ten years. Not only are marriages failing at what was commonly known as the "seven year itch", but now it's 15, 25, and 35 years. People are quitting on the promise. That is sad, because on the day of the wedding it is such a jubilant time (not the stress stuff!). The one thing that is a constant need in marriages is "it takes work." It takes work to keep the commitment the two love birds made at their wedding whether it's been 5, 25, or even 35 years. I require couples to go through four counseling sessions before I will marry them. Some pastors do more and some do less. Oh, they can play games and fake me out through the counseling, but it does them no good. Unfortunately, we know as we marry a couple that in today's climate there is a 50-50 chance they stay together. I don't like those odds. Marriage is about love, but it is even more about a commitment. We are saying to one another that we are going to go through this journey of life together forever. We even say words to that effect in our vows. But to keep that commitment takes work along the way. I know that doesn't sound romantic, but you know it's true. There is a give and take that has to take place as the years pass by and continues as a habit. The sweet old couples you see on the swing-set in their golden days know that. The man will do anything in the early days (even go to church) if he knows that will make her happy. The woman will do anything (no example, I'm not a woman) if she knows that will make him happy. But as time goes, LIFE HAPPENS all around us (work, sickness, schedules, babies, etc.) like in everything else in life we are tempted to go back to our "default" status which is selfish. If life were a canoe ride, we start paddling different directions and run into stuff or flip the canoe over. Or we stop paddling at all and things become stagnant. ----Whether you are among the Young and Restless (5-10 year itch), or the Old and Weary (20-30 year itch) there is something you need to know. As a pastor I'm speaking mostly to followers of Jesus, but this wisdom could be passed on to those that don't know Christ yet. There is a force out their that wants to divide and conquer relationships. As a church body we are fully aware that Satan does his best work when he causes "in-fighting". His plan is to divide and conquer. Similarly, the family is the basic relationship unit, and was initiated by God. If Satan and his cronies can break up families, then he is mocking God. Aren't most marriage ceremonies enveloped in promises, God, and forever? If Satan can break up a promise, he has succeeded on the day. I just want to cast a light on why marriage is hard at times. It's not always that way. It's funny when we go through challenging times we forget that the majority of times or the times leading up to the rough patch were good times, even great times. Fight for your marriage as if you were fighting the very forces of darkness (not your mate), because you are. God wants you together. You made a promise to the love of your youth. ---No you're not the same person you were when you got married. You are older and you should be wiser. When did you start being selfish again? You would both give and do whatever it took to catch the other one. It's a sweet accomplishment to finish with the one you started the journey with. There is no doubt it pleases God and makes Him proud. He built us for one another. Don't quit. Die to self. Do whatever it takes. The question is not "Can we?" We have to. ---There are things in life that you and I had to do. We looked around hoping someone more qualified would do it, but as we looked around we were the only ones there; thus we had to do it. You two are the only ones in the canoe. Everyone else is back at the landing. Calm down. Talk about it. Start paddling in the same direction, and by all means stay away from the bushes there might be a snake up in there! The best thing you can do, however, is pray like you mean it. Cry out to God! I promise, God will hear those cries.

Living a Legacy

2011-06-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

What can we do today that bears repeating? People rarely remember us after we've passed on. And most want to be remembered or make their mark on the planet. "I WAS HERE." Almost everyone has scratched their name into a desk or a tree (maybe spray-painted at a bridge or something) to show that they were here at one time or another. More is caught than taught. Well after we're gone people will do what we used to do or say what we used to say if it is worth repeating. We all remember a good story, or a motivational speech, phrase, and maybe even a good blog. All of these serve as kindling to motivate us to do good, to do better next time, to get out of the bed and get going and so on. However, words can never take the place of our actions; and we will be known for how we did "it" as well as "what" we did. Be intentional in how you live your lifestyle. You are passing it on whether you know it or not. Pass it on before you pass out. As I think of those that have gone before me, I am thankful; and I hope they will be proud, not of me, but proud that they stayed the course and people like me continued the race. The baton was handed off and we passed it on. I look at my kids...funny to call them kids now...all grown up. I'm extremely blessed to see them serving God in ways that would...well...make a daddy proud. As we will one day stand together in heaven, we will rejoice with the legacy that follows us into the Kingdom of God. We write our name into the hearts of the people that are changed because we lived out God's plan for our lives. Make your mark. Live for Him who died for you and rose again. So, let's rephrase: how can I mark that I was here today? We do it in the lives of the people we encounter today.

Sooner Than Later

2011-06-15T07:55:00.001-07:00

Sometimes we wonder why someone dies what we would call prematurely. We especially wonder this about a person that seemed to have such potential, or even godly potential. From our perspective it almost always seems too early. Have you ever considered God's perspective? We won't even get into the whole "God is outside of time and space" thing. I have wondered at times why a pastor, missionary, etc. seemingly in their prime died "early." I think of singer-song writer Keith Green who was radically saved years ago. His passion for God was incredible (if you can find it, read his book "No Compromise"). He was killed in a plane crash at the beginning of his prime. The world had not yet seen the good he could have brought. Why? Why so early? So, I wonder sometimes did God just want them to Himself early? In 1 Kings 14, King Jereboam is upset because his son Abijah is sick and looks like he is going to die. He sends his wife to ask the prophet Ahijah about it. Unfortunately he gets the news that not only would the boy die, but because Jereboam had been a terrible king in leading Israel into pagan worship practices and such, that all his sons would be killed. However, God said that Abijah was the only good person out of Jereboam's house. In fact, God looked at taking Abijah home (death) to be a good thing. He would be the only son that received a burial. This Scripture devotion was timely. My wife's dad, Bill Butler, went to be with the LORD over ten years ago. He was in the midst of his prime serving the LORD. God saw fit to take him home. A good friend was kind with this reminder from Acts 11:24 "He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord." And so his legacy and the likes of Bill Butler keep on perpetuating the Gospel through disciples that continue making disciples. Let this be a tribute to those that have served faithfully and gone on ahead of us. Thank you.

HOWEVER

2011-06-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

I had been reading in 1 Kings about how great and awesome King Solomon was. His awesomeness was so awesome that royalty from other countries came to see him, his kingdom, witness his wisdom, etc. As I read, I began to think "uh-oh when is the shoe going to drop." Everyone was bragging on him telling him how great he was; and all of his wisdom and wealth was from God. I didn't hear him stopping the well-wishers and pointing to God. I didn't hear him bragging either. Then I read it: in 1 Kings 11 verse 1 "HOWEVER." It may have well said "UH-OH!" King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women. God had specifically told him (warned him) not to marry these foreign women, because they would eventually bring their pagan gods and worship with them. Perhaps Solomon thought he was too awesome to be swayed. There is a reason God calls his people to be holy, to be separate when it comes to worship. Choose your friends wisely. Mixed marriage led to mixed worship of God and pagan gods. Verse 9 says that the LORD became angry with Solomon. Up to now, Solomon had been great. He was blessed and highly favored of God. But sadly, he fizzled out. Faithful obedience to God is key to finishing strong. God was merciful to Solomon, but He did take the kingdom away from his son. This was a classic case of "forgetting who got you there." All blessings flow from God. Live for Him who died for you and rose again. Let the blessings keep flowing. Make people say positive things about you because God can't stop blessing you for your faithful obedience. Avoid the HOWEVER!

Championship Redeemed

2011-06-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is a sport's take, so you might want to turn your head. However, it is also a human interest story. I don't think God is really concerned who wins games and championships, but championship teams bring out the best in humans. Players have to get together and play as a team. A good team playing great together can beat a great team playing good. I must admit I am a basketball junkie and the most recent NBA finals were fantastic. The Dallas Mavs redeemed themselves after losing five years ago to the same Miami Heat (different players)team that came back to beat them. It was a story of resilience this year, but really more than that. It was a team that had a taste five years ago and had fallen. Yet, they kept coming back. This group came together with a new coach that had been dropped by teams after showing he was a good coach. I felt like he had been mistreated in the past. Good for coach Carlisle and his veteran team that wouldn't give up. Congrats.
*It's a long road in our Christian walk. It's a journey. It's a roller coaster...all that. Just keep plugging away. Do the right things. Hang in there. Victory is coming! Victory is promised. We have been redeemed. Praise the Lord, the most important redemption is not up to us. ---

Experiential Knowledge

2011-06-07T07:14:00.000-07:00

There are people that we "know" because we've spent time with them, hung out with them, gone to battle with them, maybe even gone against them and came out with a better understanding and are now friends. We have a better understanding of people (or we know them better) when we go through the struggles of life together. ---We don't really know people we don't spend time with. We don't really know people if we've never seen how they react "tested under fire" in the struggles of life. We know this about people and relationships. This is common sense. We know that when a couple gets married and they have full knowledge of one another on that honeymoon night and thereafter...somewhere along the way this experiential knowledge will bear fruit. ---So it is for the follower of Jesus. Full experiential knowledge of Jesus Christ bears the fruit that God desires of each of His children. (Jn15) Jesus says that if we abide in Him then we will bear much fruit. He says that it is for the glory of the Father that we bear much fruit. God expects His children to bear fruit. So, why are so many Christians rotten fruit? Why are so many Christians barren? That answer is found in Jn.15, and Col.1:9-10. Too many Christians lack the full knowledge or experiential knowledge of Christ. We know people because we spend time with them. However, when it comes to God, we're too busy or distracted to spend quality time with God. We give God the scraps of our time. If we did that with the people around us, they would move on to new friends. We treat God as if He owes us something, or He is lucky we give Him five minutes out of our day (because we are so important. Ha!).---My hope is that we would all check ourselves on this blind spot. It's common sense. Are you better succulent fruit for God? Do you have full experiential knowledge of God? Do you know His will for your life? If you knew Him you would know His will for your life. For one thing, He wants you to bear fruit, but before that happens you must abide in him; like the branch is to abide in the vine. Abide, abide, abide in Him is the way to experience... to know God. When we do that we show ourselves to be Christ's disciples. Remember, it was the disciples that got to see the really cool stuff. Everyone else had to hear about it.

Living in Florida but

2011-06-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

I think living in Florida is a blessing. With that said, it amazes me when christian folk use good health and good weather as a reason to disobey God's word by consistently skipping church. Don't get me wrong, I'm certainly not bitter. I'm not yo daddy. But you won't grow in knowing God that way, and that is sad; because God has great plans for you. You can't be a disciple by being a casual or token christian. And the Word is plain, the disciples were the ones that got to see amazing stuff. Quit cheating yourself. Go to church. Do the other stuff, after church. The rest of us do. Don't forsake the assembling of the saints.

Burning Bush

2011-06-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

God shows up in places that don't make sense. Most of us either think we've got every thing figured out, or we're in the process of figuring it out. We wonder why life is in the crapper, or things aren't working out for us right now. All of a sudden things just don't make sense. Have you ever stopped to think maybe God was trying to take you to a new place...He was trying to do a new thing...maybe even a bigger thing, and He had to shake things up? Your and my reaction is what causes this new thing to stall. We keep trying to go back to the old, and trying to figure out what's wrong. Quit trying to make sense out of a messed up, or changed up situation; and be still. Work on your experiencing God skills. Moses ran into a burning bush in the middle of the desert that was on fire, but not being consumed. That didn't make sense! But it did get Moses attention. Moses had become quite the domesticated husband, working under his father-in-law. But God was up to something. God had a big plan in mind. He was taking Mo away from the time-clock. God was taking Moses on a road trip. He would be instrumental in rescuing a million people from slavery. ---What weird thing has got your attention? Are you trying to swim upstream? What new thing might God be doing through you if you wouldn't keep trying to go backwards? God is up to something huge, bigger and better. Read the signs. Join God at work. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

Here, There or In the Air

2011-05-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

I didn't go to any parades or anything like that today, but I did consciously take the time today to think of the fallen soldiers. Yes, I certainly relaxed, goofed off, did a little work but not enough to call it work like many Americans today. I did take the time to pray on a number of occasions thanking God for those that gave their lives for the freedom that we often take for granted. Funny thing though, each time I thanked God for our warriors who have battled for the peace of the nations, I couldn't pray without thanking God for my Savior that died on the cross for my ultimate freedom...my freedom from sin... my freedom from death, hell and the grave. To this I say Hallelujah! Thank you Jesus.---On a personal note, I do have a friend that has preceded me to heaven that I think about every Memorial Day. His name was David Jones, a great marine warrior. He went down in a helicopter several years ago now. We have many friends now that have been trained in NAS Pensacola and NAS Whiting Field. David was awesome. Teresa and I served in ministry (well before God even called me to preach) with David and Angie. David had the spirit of God in him. He was full of life. Sometimes I wonder if God just likes to get people like him sooner than later to the other side. He was great with kids, and always brought excitement into the room. He had plans to be a missionary pilot later on in life. God had different plans. I remember visiting David in his driveway before the moving van came. I hated to see them move on to the next station, but that's life. He had impacted me, and hopefully the feeling was mutual. Our goodbye went like this (he was the first to introduce me to this, but I've since heard others) "I will see you again, here, there or in the air."---How prophetic! David I'll see you there. Thanks.

Reflections of Graduation

2011-05-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

I recently had a nephew and niece graduate high school and I was able to make the trip to see them graduate. Both were different high schools and an hour apart on different nights. They've probably met each other once at a wedding. They will both be attending the same college. It's such a large campus, I wonder if they'll run into each other even though their last names are within 4 letters of each other (Johnston and McVay). Yes, like everyone we sat through the speeches we hear at graduations (I admit I was going blah-blah-blah in my head on a few, all the while understanding it was there first and only opportunity to say much of the same thing said at all graduations.).It is tough to say something different when it comes your turn. ---However, one kid managed to say something that got me. Funny, he was the most monotone of all the speakers. He started out his speech saying how he didn't want to give a speech and how he waited until the last minute to prepare it; and even admitted googling and you-tubing speeches. But then he said something that got me. He bragged (appropriately) on how their school had rose to do good deeds in tragic situations. On complimented on how they unified to do good in desperate times. ---And then it struck me, why is it we wait for desperate situations to do good to our neighbor? Why does tragedy have to strike for us to do good to our neighbor? ---As Christians we should take the lead. Do good to others because that's how we roll. Do it now and don't wait for something bad to happen. Any sinner can do good when life has fallen into the crapper around them. We should be salt and light even when it's not raining disaster all around us.

Just Read

2011-05-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

Wow. I just read an article where a man was trying to justify his sinful lifestyle. He said the Bible was about lessons, and the events it talks about really didn't happen. Perhaps the fact that he went to Baptist, Catholic and Jehovah Witnesses' church growing up interjected to the confusion. He has the gall to call those who interpret Scripture correctly as mindless, instead of owning up to the confusion of his upbringing. The dead giveaway that he has no clue: he said the story of Jonah was a parable, just a story. Funny thing, Jesus refers back to the story of Jonah. Jesus believed the story of Jonah and the big fish! Was Jesus gullible? Yeah, you got me. I believe the Bible. Just because it does not condone your sin, doesn't make it untrue. Check yourself.

Devotion 5.19.11

2011-05-19T07:46:00.000-07:00

Jn.10:22-42
The Jews flat-out asked Jesus if he was the Christ. They told him to quit keeping them in suspense. He replied that he had already told them that he was. I don't understand when people say that Jesus never said he was the Messiah. (Messiah and Christ are the same thing.) He told the Samaritan woman he was the Messiah,and he told Pilate that indeed he was the King of the Jews. For goodness' sake his whole life was one huge sign (miracle)! An interesting thing happens in this reading. These Jews, who saw the signs or heard about them, didn't believe in Jesus. They wanted to kill him. Jesus slips away from them and crosses the Jordan River and encounters some people that had merely heard the preaching about Jesus by John the Baptist (who by now has been beheaded). They saw no miracles yet believed because of the preaching. ---God still uses the preaching of the message of the cross by using the Scriptures to save people. Quit looking for a sign! Some saw signs and still didn't believe. For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation. Tell somebody.

Watermelon Seeds

2011-05-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

In 1 Cor. 15:35-58 Paul speaks about the resurrection and the glorified body. The vanity within us keeps us preoccupied with what are bodies look like in this life and even in the life to come. We find in the reading that God will determine what our resurrected body looks like so there is nothing to worry about. Forgetaboutit! ---He also gives an analogy that should help us realize that there is no doubt about the resurrection and God's ability to pull that off. As he explains the change from flesh and blood to the glorified body he reminds the reader of how a seed is buried in the ground and miraculously grows into something that looks totally different than the seed. We've all eaten watermelon and we spit the seeds back out. These little black seeds are sown into the ground and grow into large plump watermelons, and we think nothing about it. We see miracles like this everyday with every plant and fruit we eat. God gives us the picture of the death, burial and resurrection everyday through nature so that we can understand the supernatural (the spiritual even). And we totally accept it. Do we understand it fully? No way. Someone will give a scientific explanation for sure, but we have to take it for what it's worth. This little seed turns into something totally different and even awesome. So too will this old body be changed in a moment into a glorious body!

Making Sense of It All

2011-05-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

The reactions to the death of Osama Bin Laden are confusing especially among Christians. Are we supposed to be jubilant and not feel guilty about that? Are we to be humbled as we remember that we are saved by grace? Are we sympathetic in that all men were created in the image of God? It's awkward, because every one of these reactions can hide behind Scripture. So what do we do? Those who have mourned over loved ones lost from terrorism still don't get their friends and family back. We certainly weep with them as this is brought up again, and rejoice as they witness the judgment of evil. We don't always get to witness that. We're certainly thankful and grateful for our awesome military. Where do we end up on this? What is the proper emotion or reaction?---I know this is maybe a thought that is a little off mainstream, but I was thinking about Jesus responding to his disciples after he had sent them off on a little mission. He let them heal people, cast out some demons and what-not. They were pretty giddy as they returned telling him about what they had done. (one could only imagine the feeling) But before they got to feeling to puffed up, Jesus said to them "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."--Lk.10:18-20 Keep the main thing, the main thing. Death has been conquered. Do you know the Hero? Celebrate that and pass that Good News on! As far as OBL, I ain't you daddy. I'm not going to tell you how to feel about that.

A Simple Reminder

2011-05-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

"Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God."---Jn.1:12
This is why we tell the Good News. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation.---BEWARE of distractions!Anything, good or bad, that gets you and I to stop or slow down, in telling the great things Christ has done for us and how He saves us from our sin, is a major life distraction.
Persevere!
Keep the main thing the main thing. Pray for someone. Tell someone.

Legacy

2011-04-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord! That whole passage about a man's quiver being full and being blessed with children hit me today. We were just snapping pictures one after another within a crowd of people doing the same after Mel's college graduation. I looked at the awesome picture taken on my fancy phone, and it was good...very good. Teresa and I have been blessed beyond measure with four great kids. I suddenly realized the best part of any ministry I do or have done for God's kingdom is going to be so much greater through their continued faithfulness. Each one of them serves the Lord faithfully no matter what their occupation is. That is incredible! --- I know why after God made the man and the woman, He said about creation "it is very good." He saw the potential in them. In this picture I see a tremendous legacy of which I am not worthy. Not in the picture is their loving mother who has been a great influence on them. Taking the picture was me, just a so-so dad. I am thankful for God's amazing grace. Thank you for this special day God. Thank you for parents that cared for me, and passed that on. Thank you for the people around me that helped shape me. Thank you for always being there. ---I'm not writing me off, but I do hope more of us will be intentional in leaving a godly legacy behind. To be continued...

Judges 2:1-9 Devotion

2011-04-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

The angel of the LORD came and spoke to Israel prior to Joshua's death. He placed a judgment on them. He first reminded them that God will keep the promises He made to their ancestors. He reminded them that their part in the covenant was to not make covenants with the people living in the land. They were to destroy the altars of the false gods these people worshiped. However, they disobeyed God and there would be consequences. Although the land would still be their land, God would no longer drive the people out before them. In essence, God was giving them what they wanted. Apparently they wanted to work for it, God was going to let them work for it. He let them know that these people still living in the land would be a thorn in their side, and their gods would be a constant temptation to them.---This is why God calls us to be holy, separate from the world. If we keep these "gods" nearby (even though we don't believe in them)they will be a constant temptation. Do you ever have times you seem to be under constant temptation? Maybe there is an idol lying around the house, or people in "your land" you need to stay clear of. ---Biblical truth.
See Romans 1 to see how God will let us go as far away as we want from Him.
See 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 about the "thorn" in the flesh.

Catch of Breath

2011-04-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

It was great to see so many of our folks serve faithfully this weekend at our Annual Community Easter Event and our Resurrection Sunday service. It is always great to see the church working together. We've been in prayer for 40 Days and visited the land several times over that period. There was a bunch of stuff going on. Just remember, it all starts with prayer, continues in prayer, and will be a great success through persevering prayer. ---that sermon on the Garden of Gethsemane and Jesus re-engaging in prayer continues to resonate in me. ---I don't know your status right now, but I hope you will stop and catch your breath; and re-engage in prayer. God has a purpose for you, and you need to persevere through prayer to get there.---We praise the LORD for the many that received Christ on Sunday, but we continually pray that people will be Saved on Sunday; and the rest of the week. Pray hard.

I'd love to list the names of all that worked so hard, but I would miss someone. I am humbled to work with so many that lay it all on the line for their LORD.

The World's World View

2011-04-22T20:36:00.001-07:00

The world's world view has maintained poverty, war, injustice, addictions, etc. So, why would we want to bring the wisdom of the world into the church? It has caused a divisive world, and it brings divisiveness into the church. It's time the church gets back to the basics. We gotta get back to our roots and that is the power of the cross. Yes, it is foolishness to the world; but it is power to those who believe. The church needs to be helping, loving, making right and praying. ---1 Cor. 1

Great Start

2011-04-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Great start! We had a little mix up on how to fill out pledge forms and what not, but I thought it worthy to get the corrected word on today's pledge to pay off the Land. We had $102,000 in pledges and $21,198 in monies given today. I had a few folks try to give after the count, and I'm sure we'll get pledges and more next week. There's time to get in, we've got some work left to do. But today, we just praise the Lord, and invite you to continue to pray. You are an awesome group of people. Let's go!
* For those that don't know what this is about. Living Truth Church is working off its debt. We are trying to pay off our 35 acres in 18 months. We owe about $185,000; and that took a big hit today. LTC has ministering to this community for over 10 years now. We can't wait to build our own Ministry Outpost on this land God provided at a really, really good price. Go to livingtruthchurch.com if you would like to help out. (see the Attender page)
To date we've already had over $10,000 given by non-members. Thank you.

Caution:Busyness stunts growth

2011-04-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Caution: busyness will stunt your spiritual growth quicker than anything.---That thought came to me during my Quiet Time this morning. As I was in prayer, I thought about someone who had been growing spiritually by leaps and bounds; but sadly they seemed to have slowed down lately. (This could be anyone. We're all susceptible.)Then, I thought about all the different things that had kept them busy, even away from church (not necessarily bad things, just stuff). The Tempter's goal is to stunt your growth and make a mockery of God. He doesn't have to get you to do horrible sins for that. Often, he will just get you busy in the "rat-race" of life. Beware. So what do I do? Stop, kneel and pray. Slow down, and listen to the voice of God.

Unceasing Prayer

2011-04-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

Another form of prayer we don't necessarily think of as a form of prayer is Unceasing Pryaer. If prayer is so desperately needed throughout our day, why do we stop? Sometimes we're good at continued meditation and plain talk with the Lord throughout the day, but other days, not so good. Our days are often scattered, distracted, hapless and noisy. We feel stressed, hurried and breathless. Thoughts race through our minds: good ones and bad ones.---Unceasing prayer has a way of calming us in the storm of the daily rigors of life. It also helps us cut through the bologna. ---But like all prayer, we have to be intentional. Solid prayer lives don't just happen. Peaceful lives don't happen by accident either.
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be madde known to God.---Phil.4:6 Even on the really good days, it's pretty cool to be sending up some praises in prayer. I think God likes that. :)

It Truly is for the Kidz

2011-04-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

Over 10 years ago God started a work that somehow got named Living Truth. This movement of people has seen good, bad, indifferent days for sure. We’ve not always got it right, but it isn’t because we haven’t tried. Over 1,000 people have placed their faith in Christ during this time. We’ve impacted different countries, different states, and hopefully have made a dent in this community. It’s taken this long to really see the fruits of Disciples Making Disciples to begin to take hold. We thank every person that has ever been a part of Living Truth. Some have moved away due to jobs and life stuff. Some have moved on because we weren’t the “right” church, and we’ve surely had some Paul and Barnabas experiences. It’s all good. We hope the best for all. Our mission is to share that Jesus Christ is relevant today, worthy to be worshiped and shared boldly with all people. That hasn’t changed. We are thankful for God’s great mercy and His goodness. He has allowed us to get in on what He’s got going on.
For those that don’t know, just over a year ago God gave us the opportunity to purchase 35 acres for our Ministry Outpost of Operations. It is a place for LTC to serve Christ in the community. God gave us a $1,000,000 discount from what the seller was asking the previous year. Sunday, April 17th, we will be coming together in worship on what we are calling In Good Faith Sunday. Our desire is to pay the remaining balance of the land off in eighteen months (approximately $187,000). As a church we’re in the midst of 40 Days of prayer seeking God to search out our hearts, purify and then tell us as individuals how much we should give. On April 17th we will bring our pledge cards of how much God has told us to give for eighteen months, and on that day we will bring as much of that gift as we can; hence the name In Good Faith Sunday.
It should be an exciting day, as we see God bring out the best in his kids. Pray hard.
Disciples Making Disciples really is for the kidz...the next generation. Thank you Jesus for the faithful saints that passed the Gospel on to us. Love ya Jesus.

Stick to What You Know

2011-04-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Most theological arguments are about stuff God hasn't completely answered yet. Many people have no room for God to be mysterious. Some people have the God of the Universe all figured out. Now, I do too. Just kidding. ---I stumbled across this little reminder in Deuteronomy...yeah, Deuteronomy of all places. You skimmed over. We all missed it. In the 29th Chapter, you're thinking you're almost out of Deuteronomy (and into the Promised Land)into speed reading mode. Well, the 29th verse goes like this: "The Lord our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that he has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions."nlt
I know God is speaking specifically to the children of Israel as they prepare to take the Land of promise, but I think we can gather some truth from the passage. ---Indeed, the Lord has secrets unknown to any man. We are not accountable for what we don't know, so quit worrying about it. However, there is much God has revealed to us...deal with that...obey Him. Do what you know. Many rebel against Christ, because they say they are worried about people in a far-forgotten land. What does God do with children, or people that have supposedly never heard the Gospel? Why do bad things happen to good people? (I could chime in on all of those, but not now.) There may not be complete understanding in this lifetime. Go with what you know. God has revealed much to us...to you. Follow that revelation. You are accountable, at least for what you know. {And stop speed-reading through Numbers and Deuteronomy!}

Prayer of Rest

2011-04-07T08:37:00.001-07:00

All around us is chaos and confusion. We often live distracted, hurried, hapless lives with no break in sight. After creating the world God took a break, He rested. We have to be cautious that our prayers aren't always "praying hard" (as ummm...someone says a lot). We need to rest in the Lord while we're alive. Jesus said, "come to me, all you that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest." Take a load off in prayer. How do we do that? Make a place and find the time to get quiet in the Lord. Relax. Empty yourself of solving the world's problems or controlling everything and everyone around you. Let go and let God.

Prayer of Adoration

2011-04-06T21:20:00.000-07:00

Prayer is our natural response to God's love. Adoration should be a part of every prayer. Yet, as a special form, the prayer of adoration is one of worship, honor and blessing God. We ask for nothing. We seek nothing but to exalt His holy Name. We focus only on the goodness of God. In the prayer of adoration, we just love God for who He is. ---It seems like this should be effortless, but it requires us to deflect from the worship of self to the worship of God. Maybe that sounds harsh, but I think that's why it is so hard to focus at times in only the adoration of God. Thanksgiving and praise are both parts of adoration. See Psalm 35:18; 1 Chron.16:4-36

Why I Don't Drink

2011-03-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

Why I Don’t Drink
This was a blog I had to write. I was compelled to do so by all the glorification that I see for hard liquor and the more milder brews. First of all, I judge no person for their attitude about the drink. I know, I know I’ve been raised in what was formerly the “Bible belt.” So I do take that in consideration. But I also take in the consideration of all the good that the consumption (especially the over consumption) of alcohol has done
What does the Bible say about the consumption of wine, beer, etc.? You’ve read it. It does speak against getting drunk, so you don’t do something stupid. It does identify beer as “a brawler.” And yes, Jesus did make wine for the wedding party as his first miracle. Were they over-indulging at that wedding? I bet they probably did. So why not just be a “sipping saint”?
This is about me. Why don’t I drink? I ain’t yo daddy, so I’m really not concerned with what you do, because you are going to do what you’re going to do anyway. Rock on.
Simply put, I don’t want to be a stumbling block to someone else. Who knows I might be able to drink a couple brewskies at the beach with no problem. But there may be someone watching me, modeling my behavior that can’t handle just a couple. As a pastor I have seen the devastation that drinking causes to homes. Families are torn apart, because someone has to have their six-pack or case; and then turn into a completely different person. People will hop in their cars and drive drunk and change (ruin in many cases) the lives of innocent bystanders. Wives will be without their husbands and vice-versa while their loved one spends “time-out” in jail after getting a DUI.
I grew up in an era when almost every adult male of influence in my life was committed to the drink. Most of them managed to function in life, but some had marital issues probably associated with the drink. With marital issues come child-raising issues. Alcohol has put the “dys” into dysfunctional families on many occasions, and it is so unneeded.
I know my name at the end of the night. I don’t pray to the porcelain gods. I don’t have to worry who might have been killed in a car wreck because of my habit.
Finally, my conscience will be clean, in that, I didn’t teach anyone to drink (who then went out and got a dui, ruined their marriage, made a tough life on their kids or killed someone with their car).
For all the great advertisements for beer & other liquor, for all the FB pages glorifying drinking....THIS DISADVERTISEMENT IS FOR YOU. Thumbs down. Let me wash it down with this reminder: this is my stance and I’m not looking to be popular. I’m not picking a battle, because that's not how I roll. I hope to be a positive influence on just one person. ---I want folks to know, there is another side. Please drink in silence. It might save a life.

Covenant Prayer

2011-03-30T09:40:00.000-07:00

"What we need is a desire to know the whole will of God, with a fixed resolution to do it."---John Wesley
Covenant Prayer is a profound interior heart call to a God-intoxicated life.--Richard Foster
We are to fix our hearts on God in prayer. At the heart of the covenant is commitment. People are slow to commit to anything. If they commit to do something, they fear they will not be free to do something else. Yet, all the great things we've experienced in life or benefited from are because we or others lived disciplined, committed lives.
Covenant a time and place for prayer with God. Commit also to prepare your heart before you meet with God. "Waste time" with God. Do you remember those teenage-lover years when you were on the phone and no one was talking? Spend time with God. Spend quality time, not left-over time with God in prayer. Commit to it. Covenant prayer. Make a fixed habit.

Formation Prayer

2011-03-28T07:40:00.001-07:00

"Prayer---secret, fervent, believing prayer---lies at the root of all personal godliness."---Wm.Cary
We do believe prayer changes things. However, a formative or ongoing prayer life, more importantly changes us. In the active side of Formation Prayer, we are pursuing God(Phil.3:12-14). In the passive side, we are being pursued by God(Jer.18). While we never want prayer to become legalistic or ritualistic, a set of guidelines to develop healthy habits, and to change us from the inside-out are welcome. One such regiment is called The Exercises and it has 4 basic elements. First, pray focusing upon our sins in the light of God's love. Secondly, pray centering on the life of Christ. Third, pray focusing on the passion of Christ. Finally, pray focusing on the resurrection. ---You could do this in a day retreat or break it upon to days or weeks.
Most of all, engage in habitual, life transforming prayer.