Joshua 1:5 says, “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
I really felt the Lord pressing on my heart these two words……”Take Courage.” As I was praying I was reminded of three people whom God told this too. Let’s look at them:
Joshua:
Joshua 1:6,7, 9, and 18, Be strong and courageous, Be strong and very courageous, Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go, Only be strong and courageous!
Why did God repeat himself here? Well Joshua was told to take the Israelites’ into the promised land and did not know he had to defeat 31 kings prior to doing that. God was encouraging him.
Peter:
Before Peter walked on the water, it says the disciples were terrified when they first saw Jesus on the water and He said to them in Matthew 14:27, “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.”
Peter ended up being hung on the cross later in his life and had it done upside down.
Paul:
Acts 23:11 says, “The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, "Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome."
Why did he tell Paul this? Check this out in 2 Corinthians 11:24-28;
Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 27I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.
My encouragement to you today is to Take Courage, don’t allow the enemy to take any of your courage away. Don’t be easily discouraged, don’t be afraid, and don’t show any lack of faith so God can do inside you and through you what you are purposed to do.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Right On Time
Lately God has really been working on me in my area of patience and waiting on Him. God is never early or never late he is always right on time!
Recently we had had some issues with our AC unit. We have 2 units and our old one that cools our living room and the children’s room went out. I had a close friend who does A/C work for a living and put in our other unit several years ago check it out. He said it is shot and in order to purchase a new one it was going to be in the thousands of dollars.
Well let’s just say that at the same time God is working on my patience He is also working on the discipline in our finances. God usually is working on multiple things at a time on me We were having to depend on God to pull through for us. We heard Him keep telling us to be patient; I am going to take care of this. We had the kids sleeping in the dining room since it was still cool. We were prepared to shut down half of the house just because we wanted to be disciplined with our finances and save up for the new unit if it would come to that and pay cash for the new AC.
I wanted to take matters in my own hands several times and just get it fixed. God kept telling Stacey and I that He was taking care of it. My close friend had an old unit and we were not really sure it was even going to work, but he was a man of God and prayed about it. God told him to put the unit in and it will work and to donate the unit to us.
Needless to say, God was at work. The unit is working like a charm and had no expense to us. Thank you Lord for great friends and for providing all our needs according to your riches and glory.
Recently we had had some issues with our AC unit. We have 2 units and our old one that cools our living room and the children’s room went out. I had a close friend who does A/C work for a living and put in our other unit several years ago check it out. He said it is shot and in order to purchase a new one it was going to be in the thousands of dollars.
Well let’s just say that at the same time God is working on my patience He is also working on the discipline in our finances. God usually is working on multiple things at a time on me We were having to depend on God to pull through for us. We heard Him keep telling us to be patient; I am going to take care of this. We had the kids sleeping in the dining room since it was still cool. We were prepared to shut down half of the house just because we wanted to be disciplined with our finances and save up for the new unit if it would come to that and pay cash for the new AC.
I wanted to take matters in my own hands several times and just get it fixed. God kept telling Stacey and I that He was taking care of it. My close friend had an old unit and we were not really sure it was even going to work, but he was a man of God and prayed about it. God told him to put the unit in and it will work and to donate the unit to us.
Needless to say, God was at work. The unit is working like a charm and had no expense to us. Thank you Lord for great friends and for providing all our needs according to your riches and glory.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Power Made Perfect In Weakness
Paul was pleading with God in 2 Corinthians 6:8-10 and God answered him with this;
“He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
We can plead with God everyday to make something happen (promotions, business success, growth in business), to take something away (pride, depression, laziness), or to remove barriers in our life that might hold us back (strongholds, insufficiencies, lack of money or intelligence). But it is His strength that will be made perfect in our weakness, in our insults, in our hardships, persecutions and difficulties.
He will give us the strength to do everything through Christ who strengthens us, He has made us more than a conqueror, He is for us and not against us; however the moment we try to take the success into our own hands is the moment we fail. You see it is in our weaknesses that God gets the glory. It is in our lack that God gets the glory for the success that we had.
God has challenged me and I want to challenge you today to do something so big that you can’t take the glory for it; it has to come from God. Do something so big that it will cause Satan to tremble and God to be glorified. Create a movement inside yourself so you can make a difference in the lives of others and yourself.
“He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
We can plead with God everyday to make something happen (promotions, business success, growth in business), to take something away (pride, depression, laziness), or to remove barriers in our life that might hold us back (strongholds, insufficiencies, lack of money or intelligence). But it is His strength that will be made perfect in our weakness, in our insults, in our hardships, persecutions and difficulties.
He will give us the strength to do everything through Christ who strengthens us, He has made us more than a conqueror, He is for us and not against us; however the moment we try to take the success into our own hands is the moment we fail. You see it is in our weaknesses that God gets the glory. It is in our lack that God gets the glory for the success that we had.
God has challenged me and I want to challenge you today to do something so big that you can’t take the glory for it; it has to come from God. Do something so big that it will cause Satan to tremble and God to be glorified. Create a movement inside yourself so you can make a difference in the lives of others and yourself.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Why did you...
I wanted to share a parenting method I learned recently from "Shepherding A Childs Heart" by Tedd Tripp.
The "Why did you..." line of questioning never works with children and rarely with adults. Here are some alternative and more productive questions for the children:
1. "What were you feeling when you hit your sister?"
2. "What did your sister do to make you mad?"
3. "Help me understand how hitting her seemed to make things better?"
4. "What was the problem with what she was doing to you?" (You need not deny the fact your child has been sinned against. Of course, he was sinned against. Let him tell you about it.)
5. "In what other ways could you have responded?"
6. "How do you think your response reflected trust or lack trust in God's ability to provide for you?'
The "Why did you..." line of questioning never works with children and rarely with adults. Here are some alternative and more productive questions for the children:
1. "What were you feeling when you hit your sister?"
2. "What did your sister do to make you mad?"
3. "Help me understand how hitting her seemed to make things better?"
4. "What was the problem with what she was doing to you?" (You need not deny the fact your child has been sinned against. Of course, he was sinned against. Let him tell you about it.)
5. "In what other ways could you have responded?"
6. "How do you think your response reflected trust or lack trust in God's ability to provide for you?'
Monday, May 17, 2010
The Spirit Is Willing
Every day is a new day, rejoice, take joy, be happy that you have been given a brand new day. If you have a roof over your head, electricity, food and the means to get the things you need then you are blessed. Every day you should wake up with joy in your heart and have the energy spiritually first to seek God then get the energy mentally and physically to do the things God has called you to do. So many times we can get it backwards…..mentally, physically and then spiritually. You have to turn that around to the spiritually first and then the mental and physical will follow.
Mark 14:38 says, “The spirit is willing but the body is weak.” (NIV), and the NCV says, “The spirit wants to do what is right but the body is weak.” And the message says, “Part is eager, ready for anything in God, but another part is as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire.”
Matthew 6:13 and Luke 11:4 says, “Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”
Psalm 51:10-12 (Purity Prayer) Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Our fallen human nature wars against the work of God. We need to remember to have that steadfast spirit of faithfulness and a willing spirit of service.
Mark 14:38 says, “The spirit is willing but the body is weak.” (NIV), and the NCV says, “The spirit wants to do what is right but the body is weak.” And the message says, “Part is eager, ready for anything in God, but another part is as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire.”
Matthew 6:13 and Luke 11:4 says, “Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”
Psalm 51:10-12 (Purity Prayer) Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Our fallen human nature wars against the work of God. We need to remember to have that steadfast spirit of faithfulness and a willing spirit of service.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Simply Becoming
I wanted to encourage you with a teaching I got from Ed Young Sr. during our C3 conference this past year.
What can I inside my giftedness become so I can increase and build up the church in the 21st century?
The genius is not doing the genius is becoming
Lets take a look at Paul’s life----went to Arabia after becoming Christian for 3 years where he memorized the old testament. When he preached and no one was saved, he then became wanted dead and then goes to Taursus to live with his mom for 13 years. He did not just go out and start preaching and teaching, God had to mold him and develop him into the man and instrument he was called to be. Sometime we might be too proud or not willing to step up and help because we feel like we can add more and do more. But sometimes we have to just start somewhere doing something before God can use us for our complete calling and use our potential.
Then a revival broke out in Antioch and the disciples did not know how to communicate to the gentiles and Romans so they called on Paul. That is when he started his ministry 16 years after his conversion.
Now please don’t take this as to you need to wait 16 years before you get involved in a church, start serving and giving of your time, talents and treasures. I am simply saying we need to become before we can do.
Start somewhere by doing something, get involved so you can start becoming the man or woman God has called you to become.
What can I inside my giftedness become so I can increase and build up the church in the 21st century?
The genius is not doing the genius is becoming
Lets take a look at Paul’s life----went to Arabia after becoming Christian for 3 years where he memorized the old testament. When he preached and no one was saved, he then became wanted dead and then goes to Taursus to live with his mom for 13 years. He did not just go out and start preaching and teaching, God had to mold him and develop him into the man and instrument he was called to be. Sometime we might be too proud or not willing to step up and help because we feel like we can add more and do more. But sometimes we have to just start somewhere doing something before God can use us for our complete calling and use our potential.
Then a revival broke out in Antioch and the disciples did not know how to communicate to the gentiles and Romans so they called on Paul. That is when he started his ministry 16 years after his conversion.
Now please don’t take this as to you need to wait 16 years before you get involved in a church, start serving and giving of your time, talents and treasures. I am simply saying we need to become before we can do.
Start somewhere by doing something, get involved so you can start becoming the man or woman God has called you to become.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Assimilation
I wanted to share our assimilation process at Turning Point Church and fill you in on our constantly evolving process. We first started out with making calls each week and had a strenuous 4-5 week follow up plan. We also for a season tried to do visitations. Both showed very little fruit. We are constantly evaluating our process, but I wanted to share some of the new ways we have implemented in church assimilation to potentially help you in your ministry.
Our assimilation starts at the parking lot. We have implemented an amazing Welcome Team to make people feel welcomed. We have an amazing team of Parking guys who are giving direction and waving. We also have front door greeters, childrens check in and sanctuary greeters who all have been trained to welcome all who come in. We have ushers who show people to their seats and have a coffee bar for those who need the coffee. We have posted everything online also to show new visitors what to expect from how to dress to how to park. You can check that out Here if you want.
We ask in the welcome to have visitors fill out the communication cards which are given out at the door inside the bulletins. We also ask our members with any prayer requests to do the same. We pick those up at the end of the service and have them placed in the offering baskets. The next steps are usually handled by me. I get the cards and usually within 24 hours I will send them an email thanking them for coming. I also attempt to find them on facebook or twitter—if they checked the box (we have this as a question on the communication card). I befriend them and sent them a thanks. We then have a admin team who usually will send out a welcome letter. I do not make any calls unless they ask for one. We call it our no hassle-life giving process.
The next step for them is always being communicated. Come out to our Growth Track—Church 101 is always on the first Sunday of the month, 201, 2nd, 301 is the 3rd and 401 is the 4th Sunday always. Check more about that here. We make it easy, obvious and strategic. If anyone wants to get connected and into the life of the church—we invite them to the growth track. We also have small groups to connect to as well. I will explain what we do with our small groups is another blog.
Again, we are constantly evaluating our process and the effectiveness of it. We have shown consistent growth through this process and are continuing if for now.
Our assimilation starts at the parking lot. We have implemented an amazing Welcome Team to make people feel welcomed. We have an amazing team of Parking guys who are giving direction and waving. We also have front door greeters, childrens check in and sanctuary greeters who all have been trained to welcome all who come in. We have ushers who show people to their seats and have a coffee bar for those who need the coffee. We have posted everything online also to show new visitors what to expect from how to dress to how to park. You can check that out Here if you want.
We ask in the welcome to have visitors fill out the communication cards which are given out at the door inside the bulletins. We also ask our members with any prayer requests to do the same. We pick those up at the end of the service and have them placed in the offering baskets. The next steps are usually handled by me. I get the cards and usually within 24 hours I will send them an email thanking them for coming. I also attempt to find them on facebook or twitter—if they checked the box (we have this as a question on the communication card). I befriend them and sent them a thanks. We then have a admin team who usually will send out a welcome letter. I do not make any calls unless they ask for one. We call it our no hassle-life giving process.
The next step for them is always being communicated. Come out to our Growth Track—Church 101 is always on the first Sunday of the month, 201, 2nd, 301 is the 3rd and 401 is the 4th Sunday always. Check more about that here. We make it easy, obvious and strategic. If anyone wants to get connected and into the life of the church—we invite them to the growth track. We also have small groups to connect to as well. I will explain what we do with our small groups is another blog.
Again, we are constantly evaluating our process and the effectiveness of it. We have shown consistent growth through this process and are continuing if for now.
Friday, April 23, 2010
His Purpose Not Ours
I wanted to encourage you today. The Lord was sharing with me that I might be only one person but with His plans and purpose I can make a difference.
Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Too many times I am compelled to get discouraged and depressed and I remember the words of God. He said. “He would never leave me or forsake me.” He said, “He has plans for me, that I am more than a conqueror, I am the head and not the tail, He is for me and who can be against me.”
Many times the enemy wants to discourage us into thinking that we can’t make a difference in people, and why bother. However when we are down and when we are calling out to Him, he will always answer us and remind us to PRESS ON towards the goal, like Paul said.
Keep Him in your sight at all times; keep in the word and in prayer, even when you might not feel like it is making a difference. IT DOES, He hears your voice and He is with you. Remember His commands and what He has called you to do according to His purpose and not yours.
Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Too many times I am compelled to get discouraged and depressed and I remember the words of God. He said. “He would never leave me or forsake me.” He said, “He has plans for me, that I am more than a conqueror, I am the head and not the tail, He is for me and who can be against me.”
Many times the enemy wants to discourage us into thinking that we can’t make a difference in people, and why bother. However when we are down and when we are calling out to Him, he will always answer us and remind us to PRESS ON towards the goal, like Paul said.
Keep Him in your sight at all times; keep in the word and in prayer, even when you might not feel like it is making a difference. IT DOES, He hears your voice and He is with you. Remember His commands and what He has called you to do according to His purpose and not yours.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Four Points Of Prayer
We need to be continually praying for our family, our city, our nation and the world every day.
Pray for your Family:
Job prayed for his family daily. Job 1:5 says, “Job would get up early in the morning and sacrifice a burnt offering for each of his children, thinking, "Maybe one of them sinned by defying God inwardly." Job made a habit of this sacrificial atonement, just in case they'd sinned.”
Pray for your City:
Jeremiah told the captives to pray for their city to have peace, Jeremiah 29:7, “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."
Pray for your Nation:
Paul encouraged us to pray for the leaders of our nation. 1 Timothy 2:1-2, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”
Pray for our World:
Jesus taught us to pray for the world harvest. Luke 10:2, “Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”
Pray for your Family:
Job prayed for his family daily. Job 1:5 says, “Job would get up early in the morning and sacrifice a burnt offering for each of his children, thinking, "Maybe one of them sinned by defying God inwardly." Job made a habit of this sacrificial atonement, just in case they'd sinned.”
Pray for your City:
Jeremiah told the captives to pray for their city to have peace, Jeremiah 29:7, “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."
Pray for your Nation:
Paul encouraged us to pray for the leaders of our nation. 1 Timothy 2:1-2, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”
Pray for our World:
Jesus taught us to pray for the world harvest. Luke 10:2, “Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”
Friday, April 9, 2010
The Names of God
The Names of God
I wanted to share a teaching from Psalm 23 I got from the book The Remnant by Larry Stockstill. It breaks down and forms the basis for worshiping the seven major divine names of Jehovah revealed in the Old Testament:
• Jehovah-Rohi, my shepherd (v.1): “The LORD is my shepherd.”
• Jehovah-Jireh, my provider (v. 1): “I shall not want.”
• Jehovah-Shalom, my peace (v.2): “He makes me lie down in green pastures.”
• Jevohah-Rapha, my healer (v.3): “He restores my soul.”
• Jevohah-Tsidkenu, my righteousness (v.3): “He guides me in the paths of righteousness.”
• Jehovah-Shammah, my presence (v.4): “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…You are with me.”
• Jehovah-Nissi, my defender (v.5): “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”
I wanted to share a teaching from Psalm 23 I got from the book The Remnant by Larry Stockstill. It breaks down and forms the basis for worshiping the seven major divine names of Jehovah revealed in the Old Testament:
• Jehovah-Rohi, my shepherd (v.1): “The LORD is my shepherd.”
• Jehovah-Jireh, my provider (v. 1): “I shall not want.”
• Jehovah-Shalom, my peace (v.2): “He makes me lie down in green pastures.”
• Jevohah-Rapha, my healer (v.3): “He restores my soul.”
• Jevohah-Tsidkenu, my righteousness (v.3): “He guides me in the paths of righteousness.”
• Jehovah-Shammah, my presence (v.4): “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…You are with me.”
• Jehovah-Nissi, my defender (v.5): “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 26
Week 26 April 5th
Spiritual- FAMILY WEEK
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Diet-
• Body-Cardio 3 days this week work out 1 day
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting-Spring Break—Camping TRIP
• Marriage- Date morning Saturday
Financial-
Ministry
Spiritual- FAMILY WEEK
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Diet-
• Body-Cardio 3 days this week work out 1 day
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting-Spring Break—Camping TRIP
• Marriage- Date morning Saturday
Financial-
Ministry
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 25
Week 25 March 29th
Spiritual- 1 Samuel 2:30 the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Body-Continue work out plan 4 days a week, with one day off Sunday, Cardio 6 days this week
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting-Build out at church
• Marriage- Build out at church
Financial-
Ministry-
Spiritual- 1 Samuel 2:30 the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Body-Continue work out plan 4 days a week, with one day off Sunday, Cardio 6 days this week
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting-Build out at church
• Marriage- Build out at church
Financial-
Ministry-
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Prepare God's People
Ephesians 4:11-12 (New International Version)
11It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
The job of the ministry is to not actually do the work of ministry but to prepare Gods people for works of ministry. Now I am not saying this in a Pharisaical way where all the pastors just tell what to do and not do. But they are actually out doing the work of the ministry and also having people do the work of ministry.
It is the pastor’s job to prepare Gods people for works of service not to actually do all the works of service.
See what happens when the Disciples realized this:
Acts 6:1-10 The Choosing of the Seven
1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith
Peter and the leaders were actually doing the work of ministry--which in turn hindered the growth and in turn--they realized they had to choose some men to do the work......so in verse 7 it says the Word of God spread.
11It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
The job of the ministry is to not actually do the work of ministry but to prepare Gods people for works of ministry. Now I am not saying this in a Pharisaical way where all the pastors just tell what to do and not do. But they are actually out doing the work of the ministry and also having people do the work of ministry.
It is the pastor’s job to prepare Gods people for works of service not to actually do all the works of service.
See what happens when the Disciples realized this:
Acts 6:1-10 The Choosing of the Seven
1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith
Peter and the leaders were actually doing the work of ministry--which in turn hindered the growth and in turn--they realized they had to choose some men to do the work......so in verse 7 it says the Word of God spread.
Monday, March 22, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 24
Week 24 March 22nd
Spiritual- 1 Samuel 2:30 the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Diet- Do the master cleanse 3 days this week. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
• Body-Continue work out plan 4 days a week, with one day off Sunday, Cardio 6 days this week
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial- Deuteronomy 8:18, But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Spiritual- 1 Samuel 2:30 the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
• Diet- Do the master cleanse 3 days this week. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
• Body-Continue work out plan 4 days a week, with one day off Sunday, Cardio 6 days this week
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial- Deuteronomy 8:18, But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Live In The Moment
I really have felt the Lord pressing on me a few things. I catch myself getting frustrated easily sometimes and I quickly realize it is coming out of some insufficiencies or inabilities I may have. It might also be coming out of something I have not done that I need to, like review bills, do school work, or any type of things I might do on a weekly basis but not be able to get to. I also sometimes get frustrated by events coming up that I have no control over until the occur. I used to find myself, while working in the corporate world being very easily agitated on a Sunday night knowing I had to go back to work on Monday.
I felt the Lord wanted me to share this with you today:
Don’t focus on what you can’t do but focus on what you can do. Don’t get frustrated because of your inabilities but praise God for your abilities. Too many times you focus on what has not been done instead of focusing on what has been done and what can be done right now. To whom much is given much is required. Use your abilities to do good and do the best you can with what you have and don’t worry, fret or get discouraged by what has not been done or can’t be done. Don’t dwell in the past or focus too much on the future but live in the moment. Live for the here and the now and once you realize this you will have true peace and joy.
The future will be determined by the things you do today.
I felt the Lord wanted me to share this with you today:
Don’t focus on what you can’t do but focus on what you can do. Don’t get frustrated because of your inabilities but praise God for your abilities. Too many times you focus on what has not been done instead of focusing on what has been done and what can be done right now. To whom much is given much is required. Use your abilities to do good and do the best you can with what you have and don’t worry, fret or get discouraged by what has not been done or can’t be done. Don’t dwell in the past or focus too much on the future but live in the moment. Live for the here and the now and once you realize this you will have true peace and joy.
The future will be determined by the things you do today.
Monday, March 15, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 23
Week 23 March 15th
Spiritual- Luke 12:48 From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Physical— Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours, eliminate sugars and coffee after 5pm
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program continue workout program
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting- Family night Monday—picnic at Panola Mountain Park
• Marriage- Date night Thursday—Tennis or taking a walk
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:4 The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Spiritual- Luke 12:48 From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Physical— Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours, eliminate sugars and coffee after 5pm
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program continue workout program
Family- Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love,
• Parenting- Family night Monday—picnic at Panola Mountain Park
• Marriage- Date night Thursday—Tennis or taking a walk
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:4 The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Isaiah's Breakfast Prayer
My youngest son Isaiah, age 3 wanted to pray for his breakfast this morning and I felt led to share.
“Dear God thank you for my friends and for my friends sisters and God thank you for my sisters”
As he looks around he then says, “Dad where is my Sister?”
I respond, “She is still sleeping…”
“Still sleeping,” he says, “I’m awake and you are awake why is she still sleeping?”
I respond, “She is tired.”
So he says, “Why is she so tired?”
My response was, “Wait weren’t we praying?”
“Oh yeah, and God please thank you for my house and for my food and Dad please pray for my friend to come over today and tomorrow.”
WOW, my son is quickly turning into a powerful intercessor. It is amazing how our prayers are sometimes the same. Have you ever started praying and thinking wow, I forgot to pay my bill or I forgot to email so and so or maybe call someone and we quickly forget we were even praying. I know I have plenty of times, even during my prayer today I stopped to write this blog :-)
Gotta get back to prayer just wanted to share my sons prayer and hope you can relate.
“Dear God thank you for my friends and for my friends sisters and God thank you for my sisters”
As he looks around he then says, “Dad where is my Sister?”
I respond, “She is still sleeping…”
“Still sleeping,” he says, “I’m awake and you are awake why is she still sleeping?”
I respond, “She is tired.”
So he says, “Why is she so tired?”
My response was, “Wait weren’t we praying?”
“Oh yeah, and God please thank you for my house and for my food and Dad please pray for my friend to come over today and tomorrow.”
WOW, my son is quickly turning into a powerful intercessor. It is amazing how our prayers are sometimes the same. Have you ever started praying and thinking wow, I forgot to pay my bill or I forgot to email so and so or maybe call someone and we quickly forget we were even praying. I know I have plenty of times, even during my prayer today I stopped to write this blog :-)
Gotta get back to prayer just wanted to share my sons prayer and hope you can relate.
Monday, March 8, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 22
Week 22 March 8th
Spiritual— Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Physical— Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours, eliminate sugars and coffee after 5pm
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program on bow flex
Family- 1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
• Parenting- Family night Wednesday
• Marriage- Date night Monday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:2 You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1
Spiritual— Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
Physical— Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours, eliminate sugars and coffee after 5pm
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program on bow flex
Family- 1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
• Parenting- Family night Wednesday
• Marriage- Date night Monday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:2 You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country
Ministry- Ephesians 4:1
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Why Volunteer, Whats In It For Me
Serving in your local church means a lot, you are serving for the Kingdom of God, you are serving for God, and you are making a difference in many people’s lives. And wouldn’t that be just a reward enough??? What do you guys think? Ok so I have some even better news. Sometimes we might be even thinking are there any other benefits of serving?
Studies on volunteers have shown some amazing results. Catch this…..Studies have shown that volunteering can improve communication skills. Teach new tasks and develop managerial skills than can help in the workplace. Studies also show that people who serve actually get smarter…No smart comments here please:-) Studies also show that people who volunteer are generally more healthy and have a stronger immune systems….and if you were here moving chairs and stuff for the father daughter dance…you probably found yourself getting much stronger. Studies also show that volunteering can increase a person’s confidence and interpersonal skills which are both excellent for enriching and expanding personal relationships.
Studies on volunteers have shown some amazing results. Catch this…..Studies have shown that volunteering can improve communication skills. Teach new tasks and develop managerial skills than can help in the workplace. Studies also show that people who serve actually get smarter…No smart comments here please:-) Studies also show that people who volunteer are generally more healthy and have a stronger immune systems….and if you were here moving chairs and stuff for the father daughter dance…you probably found yourself getting much stronger. Studies also show that volunteering can increase a person’s confidence and interpersonal skills which are both excellent for enriching and expanding personal relationships.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Affirmation
Affirmation
All of us are in need of affirmation. It is a basic need that no person is exempt from. Even Jesus Himself needed affirming word from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11). But, unfortunately, many people experience a general lack of affirmation. Affirmation, however, is not optional, but totally necessary, for any person to function correctly.
In the book “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman, one of the love languages is words of affirmation. My wife is well aware of this one because it is my love language. I am good at it, however need it a lot myself. The great thing is I can get it from God while in the word and prayer. The other thing is I do need it from my wife and kids. I often ask my kids, “Who loves their dad?” and wait for the answer from all three of them saying “Me” or “I do.” It is a basic need even though it is not one of my wife’s main love languages, she still needs to hear from me that I love her, I value her and appreciate her. It validates all she is doing as a mother and wife.
While I was working in the cooperate world, many times people would work very hard not for a bonus or extra incentives but more from their boss a, “job well done.”
Today and this week while going through your week find people in your circle of influence and give them affirming words. Please share any thoughts or insights you have found on the subject?
All of us are in need of affirmation. It is a basic need that no person is exempt from. Even Jesus Himself needed affirming word from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11). But, unfortunately, many people experience a general lack of affirmation. Affirmation, however, is not optional, but totally necessary, for any person to function correctly.
In the book “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman, one of the love languages is words of affirmation. My wife is well aware of this one because it is my love language. I am good at it, however need it a lot myself. The great thing is I can get it from God while in the word and prayer. The other thing is I do need it from my wife and kids. I often ask my kids, “Who loves their dad?” and wait for the answer from all three of them saying “Me” or “I do.” It is a basic need even though it is not one of my wife’s main love languages, she still needs to hear from me that I love her, I value her and appreciate her. It validates all she is doing as a mother and wife.
While I was working in the cooperate world, many times people would work very hard not for a bonus or extra incentives but more from their boss a, “job well done.”
Today and this week while going through your week find people in your circle of influence and give them affirming words. Please share any thoughts or insights you have found on the subject?
Monday, March 1, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 21
Week 20 March 1st
Spiritual— Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Physical—
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program on bow flex
Family- Ephesians 5:31 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial-
Ministry- Matthew 18:19 Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.
Spiritual— Ecclesiastes 4:12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Physical—
• Diet- Start clean eating plan with 5 meals every 2 and half hours
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program on bow flex
Family- Ephesians 5:31 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial-
Ministry- Matthew 18:19 Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.
Monday, February 22, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 20
Spiritual— Blessed is the man
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
Physical—
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day,
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program
Family- Proverbs 5:19 (Wife) may you ever be captivated by her love
• Parenting- Family night Monday, Father Daughter Dance Saturday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial-
Ministry-
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
Physical—
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day,
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program
Family- Proverbs 5:19 (Wife) may you ever be captivated by her love
• Parenting- Family night Monday, Father Daughter Dance Saturday
• Marriage- Date night Thursday
Financial-
Ministry-
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Overwhelmed?
Have you ever felt overwhelmed? Have you ever felt that you are trying to take on too much and you just can’t do it all? I really feel this is a huge way the enemy tries to attack us in feeling that we can’t take on certain things. Too many times we feel like we can’t take on certain things because we might have too much on our plate.
Now I do believe in complete balance in our lives. I believe you should be able to balance your time between God, family, work and community development. I truly believe you should have a day of rest to recoup and get re-energized for your life. But sometimes we might fall short of what God has for us. Sometimes we don’t take on as much as we can because the enemy tries to leak into our lives and plant thoughts like, you are already doing too much.
I have had several times in my week where I have been overwhelmed, so I too am dealing with this. I have even been forgetful in things because I have so much on my plate.
I have a few ideas on what can be done in cases of being overwhelmed:
1) Turning to the word.
Matthew 6:27 says, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life.”
Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first His kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.”
2 Timothy 1:7 I have changed and said, “God did not give me the spirit of overwhelm, but of power and of love and of self control….and a sound mind.”
2) Praying to God for strength.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
1 John 4:4 says, “Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.”
3) Take notes on what all needs to be done: this will help you remember all you need to get done and not get you sidetracked on doing something else when a thought comes in while you are already doing something.
4) Schedule out your weeks: use block scheduling where at certain times of the day you are focused on certain things.
5) Use your NET (no extra time): like when you are driving, to get caught up on your calls, when working out get caught up on spiritual growth, when waiting for someone or something, get caught up on reading or reaching out to others.
Now I do believe in complete balance in our lives. I believe you should be able to balance your time between God, family, work and community development. I truly believe you should have a day of rest to recoup and get re-energized for your life. But sometimes we might fall short of what God has for us. Sometimes we don’t take on as much as we can because the enemy tries to leak into our lives and plant thoughts like, you are already doing too much.
I have had several times in my week where I have been overwhelmed, so I too am dealing with this. I have even been forgetful in things because I have so much on my plate.
I have a few ideas on what can be done in cases of being overwhelmed:
1) Turning to the word.
Matthew 6:27 says, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life.”
Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first His kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.”
2 Timothy 1:7 I have changed and said, “God did not give me the spirit of overwhelm, but of power and of love and of self control….and a sound mind.”
2) Praying to God for strength.
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
1 John 4:4 says, “Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.”
3) Take notes on what all needs to be done: this will help you remember all you need to get done and not get you sidetracked on doing something else when a thought comes in while you are already doing something.
4) Schedule out your weeks: use block scheduling where at certain times of the day you are focused on certain things.
5) Use your NET (no extra time): like when you are driving, to get caught up on your calls, when working out get caught up on spiritual growth, when waiting for someone or something, get caught up on reading or reaching out to others.
Monday, February 15, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 19
Week 19 February 14th
Spiritual— Proverbs 20:5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out
Physical— 1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day, stop eating fast food
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program
Family- Proverbs 5:19 (Wife) may you ever be captivated by her love
• Parenting- Family night Monday
• Marriage- Valentines Retreat to C3 Church Conference Wednesday to Saturday
Financial- Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus
Ministry- Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.
Spiritual— Proverbs 20:5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out
Physical— 1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day, stop eating fast food
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it and start lifting program
Family- Proverbs 5:19 (Wife) may you ever be captivated by her love
• Parenting- Family night Monday
• Marriage- Valentines Retreat to C3 Church Conference Wednesday to Saturday
Financial- Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus
Ministry- Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Creature of Habits
We are all creatures of habit. There are certain things I do that are totally out of habit. God has been working on me to make sure I am changing constantly. I think the awesome thing about God is that he won’t show us everything wrong with us at the same time; he corrects one area of our life at a time. We must lean on Him and make sure we are not falling into the trap of just being creatures of habits.
Some habits can give life but some habits can destroy your life. I have to make sure that I am developing the daily habits God wants me to have so I don’t allow my fleshly habits to get in the way. Some of us all have habits whether good or bad, we need to remember to make sure we are allowing God to work on us to develop his habits.
Joshua 1:8 says, Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Some daily habits you should remember to focus on are, reading the Bible and praying. What are some other healthy habits we should form?
Some habits can give life but some habits can destroy your life. I have to make sure that I am developing the daily habits God wants me to have so I don’t allow my fleshly habits to get in the way. Some of us all have habits whether good or bad, we need to remember to make sure we are allowing God to work on us to develop his habits.
Joshua 1:8 says, Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Some daily habits you should remember to focus on are, reading the Bible and praying. What are some other healthy habits we should form?
Monday, February 8, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 18
Week 18 February 7th
Spiritual— John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Physical— 1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day, have a menu for each day for all meals and snacks
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date Night Wednesday
Financial- Acts 10:5 Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God
Ministry- Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Spiritual— John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Physical— 1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
• Diet- Start limiting food and sugars drink 100 oz of water a day, have a menu for each day for all meals and snacks
• Body-Continue training for 5k run, treadmill 3 days a week 2 miles and time it
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family night Friday
• Marriage- Date Night Wednesday
Financial- Acts 10:5 Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God
Ministry- Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Something Big
There are people God wants to do something with and those God wants to do something BIG with, which one are you???
I asked this question last night to my Twitter and Facebook Networks. It might have stirred up some question and controversy. Let me clear my thoughts out on this statement.
I truly believe that there are people who God is going to do something with that might not be that big. They will go to church, possibly even serve and read their Bible but God said in Jeremiah 28:11, “I know the plans I have for you, plans for hope and a future, plans to prosper you, not to harm you.”
However some people can get content and not move forward so God can really do something Big in their lives. They might be willing to do something but not obedient.
Isaiah 1:19 says, “Those who are willing and obedient, will eat the best from the land.”
I want to do whatever God has called me to do. I want to be able to be flexible to do what He wants me to do. How about you?
Too many times people might get complacent and comfortable where they are an unwilling to make a change for God. They are ok with just going to church on Sundays, but I truly believe we are all called to do something BIG for His purpose. Something that only He can do in our lives, something that we can’t take the credit for and something that brings him all the honor and glory.
So I ask that question again are you a person who is willing and obedient to have God do something BIG in your life????
I asked this question last night to my Twitter and Facebook Networks. It might have stirred up some question and controversy. Let me clear my thoughts out on this statement.
I truly believe that there are people who God is going to do something with that might not be that big. They will go to church, possibly even serve and read their Bible but God said in Jeremiah 28:11, “I know the plans I have for you, plans for hope and a future, plans to prosper you, not to harm you.”
However some people can get content and not move forward so God can really do something Big in their lives. They might be willing to do something but not obedient.
Isaiah 1:19 says, “Those who are willing and obedient, will eat the best from the land.”
I want to do whatever God has called me to do. I want to be able to be flexible to do what He wants me to do. How about you?
Too many times people might get complacent and comfortable where they are an unwilling to make a change for God. They are ok with just going to church on Sundays, but I truly believe we are all called to do something BIG for His purpose. Something that only He can do in our lives, something that we can’t take the credit for and something that brings him all the honor and glory.
So I ask that question again are you a person who is willing and obedient to have God do something BIG in your life????
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes
Time may change me, but I can’t trace time. David Bowie.
I wanted to discuss with you the inevitable fact that things will change. Changing things grow and growing things change. We have gone through many changes in our personal, business and spiritual life however God has always been with us.
I think that is what we need to remember when we are going through those changes. God said He will never leave us or forsake us.
If you are not currently going through a change right now and following God, just wait and things will change. I want to encourage you to press in to God and what He has for you and he will be with you all the way.
What is the biggest change you have ever gone through whether it is personal, spiritual or in business?
I wanted to discuss with you the inevitable fact that things will change. Changing things grow and growing things change. We have gone through many changes in our personal, business and spiritual life however God has always been with us.
I think that is what we need to remember when we are going through those changes. God said He will never leave us or forsake us.
If you are not currently going through a change right now and following God, just wait and things will change. I want to encourage you to press in to God and what He has for you and he will be with you all the way.
What is the biggest change you have ever gone through whether it is personal, spiritual or in business?
Monday, February 1, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 17
Week 17 February 1st
Spiritual— 2 Corinthians 3:18 8And we, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit
Physical— Psalm 118:17 I will not die but live,
and will proclaim what the LORD has done
• Diet- Fast is over. Start counting calories drink 100 oz of water a day
• Body-Start training for 5k run
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family night Monday night—take kids to AMTC auditions and have prayer time on the way
• Marriage- Date Night Thursday
Financial- Acts 10:5 Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God
Ministry- Matthew 5:1 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions.
Spiritual— 2 Corinthians 3:18 8And we, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit
Physical— Psalm 118:17 I will not die but live,
and will proclaim what the LORD has done
• Diet- Fast is over. Start counting calories drink 100 oz of water a day
• Body-Start training for 5k run
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family night Monday night—take kids to AMTC auditions and have prayer time on the way
• Marriage- Date Night Thursday
Financial- Acts 10:5 Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God
Ministry- Matthew 5:1 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Motivate
Developing people is one of our most appreciable assets as leaders. From John Maxwell’s book Developing the Leader Within You, he breaks down a few of the motivators people have. They are significant contributions, goal participation, positive dissatisfaction, recognition and clear expectation.
The bottom line is people are motivated by different things. I put on my facebook and twitter accounts today the question what motivates you and got some great answers. But not many of them were similar, so it just goes to show as a leader we have to find out what motivates the people under us and try to help to motivate them based on what is their determining motivating factor.
My question to you today is: What motivates you?
The bottom line is people are motivated by different things. I put on my facebook and twitter accounts today the question what motivates you and got some great answers. But not many of them were similar, so it just goes to show as a leader we have to find out what motivates the people under us and try to help to motivate them based on what is their determining motivating factor.
My question to you today is: What motivates you?
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Have Fun
I wanted to encourage you today to just have fun. I am speaking to myself also, because I really believe with our busy lives and things we are all trying to do today, the enemy likes to steal our joy.
Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord of the strength.”
I am way to serious sometimes for those that know me. When I get into the groove of something my facial expressions show no sign of a smile and I concentrate and can almost look upset or intimidating. I really have to prepare myself and say this verse over and over. I have to be very intentional about smiling and showing a joyous expression on my face.
But the main point of this today is to encourage you to find the fun and joy in every situation. When in traffic, and if you live in Atlanta you will deal with traffic, just smile and have fun. Try to find some memory or thought that makes you smile and think that.
But seriously (you should see my face right now no smile because I am being serious :-) ) have fun and remember that the Lord will give you strength when you have joy!!
Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord of the strength.”
I am way to serious sometimes for those that know me. When I get into the groove of something my facial expressions show no sign of a smile and I concentrate and can almost look upset or intimidating. I really have to prepare myself and say this verse over and over. I have to be very intentional about smiling and showing a joyous expression on my face.
But the main point of this today is to encourage you to find the fun and joy in every situation. When in traffic, and if you live in Atlanta you will deal with traffic, just smile and have fun. Try to find some memory or thought that makes you smile and think that.
But seriously (you should see my face right now no smile because I am being serious :-) ) have fun and remember that the Lord will give you strength when you have joy!!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Slow To Judge
I came across this prayer and wanted to share:
“Heavenly Father help me to remember that the jerk that cut me off in traffic last night, is a single mother who just worked nine hours that day and was rushing home to do the homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with their children. Help me to remember the pierced tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make change at the local store, is a worried 19 year old college student balancing his apprehension over his final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans next semester. Remind me Lord that the bum, the scary looking guy begging for money in the same spot every day, is a slave to his addictions that I can’t only imagine in my worst nightmares. Help me to remember that the old couple who is walking so annoyingly slow in the super market, blocking up the aisles and slowing everyone down are probably savoring their final moments together based on the last biopsy report she got, this will be the last few moments they will spend together. Heavenly father remind me that each day, all the gifts you have given us the greatest gift is love. It’s not enough to share the love with those I hold dear, but open my hearts to all humanity. Let me be slow to judge, quick to forgive, bless me with patience, empathy and love.
And all God’s people said AMEN.
“Heavenly Father help me to remember that the jerk that cut me off in traffic last night, is a single mother who just worked nine hours that day and was rushing home to do the homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with their children. Help me to remember the pierced tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make change at the local store, is a worried 19 year old college student balancing his apprehension over his final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans next semester. Remind me Lord that the bum, the scary looking guy begging for money in the same spot every day, is a slave to his addictions that I can’t only imagine in my worst nightmares. Help me to remember that the old couple who is walking so annoyingly slow in the super market, blocking up the aisles and slowing everyone down are probably savoring their final moments together based on the last biopsy report she got, this will be the last few moments they will spend together. Heavenly father remind me that each day, all the gifts you have given us the greatest gift is love. It’s not enough to share the love with those I hold dear, but open my hearts to all humanity. Let me be slow to judge, quick to forgive, bless me with patience, empathy and love.
And all God’s people said AMEN.
Monday, January 25, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 16
Week 16 January 24th
Spiritual— Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us
Physical— Psalm 103:3 He who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 4 days this week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday liquids only
• Body-Start new work out plan this week
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night—Continue God Provides Series, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional, did lunch with Madylaine last week, plan date day with Solomon
• Marriage- Date afternoon Friday
Financial- Romans 13:8 I keep out of debt and owe no man anything, except to love others.
Ministry- 1 Corinthians 2:2 For I determined not to know anything except Jesus Christ and Him crucified
Spiritual— Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us
Physical— Psalm 103:3 He who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 4 days this week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday liquids only
• Body-Start new work out plan this week
Family- Psalm 127:3-5 Don't you see that children are GOD's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night—Continue God Provides Series, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional, did lunch with Madylaine last week, plan date day with Solomon
• Marriage- Date afternoon Friday
Financial- Romans 13:8 I keep out of debt and owe no man anything, except to love others.
Ministry- 1 Corinthians 2:2 For I determined not to know anything except Jesus Christ and Him crucified
Be Audacious
I was listening to Steven Furtick’s message “Make Us Audacious” from the One Prayer series this morning and wanted to share this with you. In 1 Samuel 14:6 Jonathan is sharing with his armor-bearer prior to going on a mission to attack the Philistines and he tells him “Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, where by many or by few.” (NIV) He encouraged his armor-bearer even though it was a suicide mission, there were only two swords left in Israel and Jonathan and Saul were the only two left with one.
“I despaired at the thought that my life might slip by without seeing God show himself mightily on our behalf.” Jim Cymbala, Pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle and author.
Be encouraged and have the audacity to move on God’s behalf and He will move on yours. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. When you step out in faith and do what He has called you to according to His purpose He will make you more than a conqueror, he will make you the head and not the tail, you will be above and never beneath, He will give you the strength and wisdom to pull off the miraculous. Just be prepared to step on His behalf and don’t let anything hold you back. Nothing can stop God.
“I despaired at the thought that my life might slip by without seeing God show himself mightily on our behalf.” Jim Cymbala, Pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle and author.
Be encouraged and have the audacity to move on God’s behalf and He will move on yours. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. When you step out in faith and do what He has called you to according to His purpose He will make you more than a conqueror, he will make you the head and not the tail, you will be above and never beneath, He will give you the strength and wisdom to pull off the miraculous. Just be prepared to step on His behalf and don’t let anything hold you back. Nothing can stop God.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Accept The Compliment
A compliment is defined as, "say something to someone that expresses praise."
Something God has really been sharing with me lately is to make sure I am accepting any compliments. Not in an arrogant way but in a way to glorify. We might get compliments about our kids, our clothes, our house or anything and we say things like.
"You should see my kids when they are not in public"
"Or, these clothes, I got them on sale on the clearance rack"
"Or this house, no not really way too many things are wrong with it"
I clearly heard God saying to me to make sure I am accepting the compliment in a humble way. When we deny our compliments we are taking away from the blessing God has given to us.
Next time someone compliments you--give the glory to God and accept it in a most humbling way.
Something God has really been sharing with me lately is to make sure I am accepting any compliments. Not in an arrogant way but in a way to glorify. We might get compliments about our kids, our clothes, our house or anything and we say things like.
"You should see my kids when they are not in public"
"Or, these clothes, I got them on sale on the clearance rack"
"Or this house, no not really way too many things are wrong with it"
I clearly heard God saying to me to make sure I am accepting the compliment in a humble way. When we deny our compliments we are taking away from the blessing God has given to us.
Next time someone compliments you--give the glory to God and accept it in a most humbling way.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Be The Light
I want to encourage you today to know that you can either be the light or be the darkness in someones day. I try to always be encouraging to those around me and try to compliment people on something I notice and I truly am genuine about it. I can’t give anyone a fake compliment.
I was reading in Matthew and came across Matthew 5:14-16 which says,
14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Know that when your light shines before men, that will reflect the glory of God and the deeds you have done are to glorify Him. God has called us to be the light. Try to make sure you are not bringing anyone down with the problems of your life but lift them up in the light of the Father. If you have something going on in your life you can ask some of your key people you know for prayer but try to also be an encourager.
Lets try this on for size when you are asking for a prayer request ask if there is anything you can be praying to them about. This way you can bring glorify to the Father by doing this.
I was reading in Matthew and came across Matthew 5:14-16 which says,
14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Know that when your light shines before men, that will reflect the glory of God and the deeds you have done are to glorify Him. God has called us to be the light. Try to make sure you are not bringing anyone down with the problems of your life but lift them up in the light of the Father. If you have something going on in your life you can ask some of your key people you know for prayer but try to also be an encourager.
Lets try this on for size when you are asking for a prayer request ask if there is anything you can be praying to them about. This way you can bring glorify to the Father by doing this.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Step
Too many times people can miss their calling in their life out of fear, doubt and worry. They are afraid to get out of their comfort zone and move into something that might make them a little uncomfortable.
Here are the questions I have been getting:
• I don’t know what God’s destiny for me is?
• What does God want in my life?
• What should I be doing?
• I know I am supposed to be doing something for the church or for the community but not sure what?
• Where do I fit in?
Many people ask those questions out of their lack of confidence and hesitate or even worse not get involved in making a difference in peoples’ lives.
My answer………….JUST STEP.
Matthew 14:25-30 talks about Jesus and Peter walking on water,
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
All Peter did in verse 29 was he stepped out and literally walked on the water, God hardened the water once he stepped. When he took his eyes of Jesus in verse 30 is when he began to sink, that is an entirely different message.
The message is simple. If you want to know what you should be doing just step and start somewhere. When I first started in church I did not go to the pastor and say, “You know I feel called to be a connections pastor.” I said, “Where can I serve?” So I actually started as an usher, then they caught wind that I played the guitar so I started to play on the praise team. But I was willing to do whatever. I just wanted to be a part of something bigger than I was. Did I know when I first started going to church I would be a connections pastor….absolutely not. I just took a step and God hardened the water.
My challenge to you is to just step. If you want to get involved in the church, just step, get involved in the community, just step. God will harden the water.
Here are the questions I have been getting:
• I don’t know what God’s destiny for me is?
• What does God want in my life?
• What should I be doing?
• I know I am supposed to be doing something for the church or for the community but not sure what?
• Where do I fit in?
Many people ask those questions out of their lack of confidence and hesitate or even worse not get involved in making a difference in peoples’ lives.
My answer………….JUST STEP.
Matthew 14:25-30 talks about Jesus and Peter walking on water,
25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29"Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
All Peter did in verse 29 was he stepped out and literally walked on the water, God hardened the water once he stepped. When he took his eyes of Jesus in verse 30 is when he began to sink, that is an entirely different message.
The message is simple. If you want to know what you should be doing just step and start somewhere. When I first started in church I did not go to the pastor and say, “You know I feel called to be a connections pastor.” I said, “Where can I serve?” So I actually started as an usher, then they caught wind that I played the guitar so I started to play on the praise team. But I was willing to do whatever. I just wanted to be a part of something bigger than I was. Did I know when I first started going to church I would be a connections pastor….absolutely not. I just took a step and God hardened the water.
My challenge to you is to just step. If you want to get involved in the church, just step, get involved in the community, just step. God will harden the water.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Be On Purpose
I wanted to share with you today what God was putting on my heart. He told me to make sure to be on purpose in every area of my life and to have a plan for everything I am doing. Be on purpose in your marriage, be on purpose in your parenting, and be on purpose in your ministry and health and life. Every week I have to make sure that I actually plan out a date night with my wife to make sure we have purpose in my marriage. Every week I have to plan out my meetings with people and week to keep on track. I try to plan every month to have a date with my kids, plan a family day, and plan a family devotional and quarterly plan to have lunch with my kids at school. I share this not to boast but to let you know that in everything we do we need to be intentional and have a strategy for the things God has called us to do.
Too many times we can get wrapped up in what we are doing and forget about those around us. God has a purpose and destiny for each one of us and we have to realize and walk in what he has for us.
My challenge for you is what areas are you on purpose in your life and what areas do we need to step up in.
Too many times we can get wrapped up in what we are doing and forget about those around us. God has a purpose and destiny for each one of us and we have to realize and walk in what he has for us.
My challenge for you is what areas are you on purpose in your life and what areas do we need to step up in.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Be Authentic
I wanted to share with you today about making sure you are being authentic. Way too many times people try to put on a front when so many people can actually see through it.
God has called us to be authentic in our relationship with others. I have tried to be real intentional about returning emails, returning calls and making sure that I follow through with what I say. Anytime you fail to do what you have said you loose credibility.
God has called us to make a difference in peoples lives and I want to stretch your thinking today to make sure you are real when you are in your daily life. Let me stop you right there also because Provers says "the Power of Life and Death are in the tongue." So there are actually power in our words so when people ask how you are doing, being authentic does not mean that you are a downer and tell everything that is going wrong in your life. That is not my message here today.
My message today is to challenge you to make sure you are following through with what you say, have a guideline on returning email, and phone calls. God has challenged me lately to make sure I am responding in a life giving way to my phone calls, email and any direct communication I come across. What is God telling you through this blog??
God has called us to be authentic in our relationship with others. I have tried to be real intentional about returning emails, returning calls and making sure that I follow through with what I say. Anytime you fail to do what you have said you loose credibility.
God has called us to make a difference in peoples lives and I want to stretch your thinking today to make sure you are real when you are in your daily life. Let me stop you right there also because Provers says "the Power of Life and Death are in the tongue." So there are actually power in our words so when people ask how you are doing, being authentic does not mean that you are a downer and tell everything that is going wrong in your life. That is not my message here today.
My message today is to challenge you to make sure you are following through with what you say, have a guideline on returning email, and phone calls. God has challenged me lately to make sure I am responding in a life giving way to my phone calls, email and any direct communication I come across. What is God telling you through this blog??
Monday, January 18, 2010
31 Kings
Way too many times we give up prior to seeing the breakthrough. There have been many times in my life I felt like giving up on something. Felt like, what is the use, if God wanted me to have this then He would make it happen.
Let’s think about Joshua, many people remember him for being the one who entered into the Promised Land. Joshua and his men made the wall at Jericho collapse. He was able to enter in the Promised Land. But there is more to the story than that.
Did you know that Joshua had to fight and defeat 31 kings prior to entering into the Promised Land?
The enemy is going to throw some kings you will need to battle prior to you receiving what God has for you. There is going to be a moment in your leadership journey, where it is going to cost you something. As you grow and move past the battles the enemy has put in front of you, you will have to decide: Do I press on or Do I give up.
I want to encourage you today that the battle is not won in one victory. It might take you 31 battles, some might be victories and some might be losses however press on toward the goal. Continue to persevere in what God has called you to do, because the enemy might just throw 31 kings you will need to battle in front of you prior to you seeing the blessing.
Let’s think about Joshua, many people remember him for being the one who entered into the Promised Land. Joshua and his men made the wall at Jericho collapse. He was able to enter in the Promised Land. But there is more to the story than that.
Did you know that Joshua had to fight and defeat 31 kings prior to entering into the Promised Land?
The enemy is going to throw some kings you will need to battle prior to you receiving what God has for you. There is going to be a moment in your leadership journey, where it is going to cost you something. As you grow and move past the battles the enemy has put in front of you, you will have to decide: Do I press on or Do I give up.
I want to encourage you today that the battle is not won in one victory. It might take you 31 battles, some might be victories and some might be losses however press on toward the goal. Continue to persevere in what God has called you to do, because the enemy might just throw 31 kings you will need to battle in front of you prior to you seeing the blessing.
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 15
Week 15 January 17th
Spiritual— Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved I pray that you will prosper in all things and be in health just as your soul prospers
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 5 days this week, Wednesday and Friday liquids only
• Body-Revise work out plan so that you enjoy it
Family- 1 Timothy 3:4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional
• Marriage- Date night Tuesday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:13 The LORD will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the LORD your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.
Ministry- Colossians 1:28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.
Spiritual— Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Physical— 3 John 2 Beloved I pray that you will prosper in all things and be in health just as your soul prospers
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 5 days this week, Wednesday and Friday liquids only
• Body-Revise work out plan so that you enjoy it
Family- 1 Timothy 3:4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional
• Marriage- Date night Tuesday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:13 The LORD will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the LORD your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.
Ministry- Colossians 1:28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Take Ownership Demand Excellence
I was sharing this with our welcome today @ Turning Point Church about taking ownership and demanding excellence. I pray you will be able to also use this in your daily lives. I was encouraging the team to make sure we are creating an environment where the power and character of Jesus is so relevant that people leave in awe.
Mark 7:37 says, the people were overwhelmed with amazement and said, “He has done everything well.”
Matthew 9:8 says, when the crowds saw this, they were filled with awe.
Luke 7:16 says, they were filled with awe.
We want people leaving our church on Sundays saying wow, they did everything well. I was encouraging them to be thinking of what we can do to make our team better and then step up and do it. Don’t just work on in but work in it. We can be doing the wrong thing and be in the right environment and God will still move. People will be filled with awe.
I want to encourage you to take an evaluation of your life, your business, and your ministry and ask yourself are we reflecting the glory of Jesus with people walking away saying wow.
Mark 7:37 says, the people were overwhelmed with amazement and said, “He has done everything well.”
Matthew 9:8 says, when the crowds saw this, they were filled with awe.
Luke 7:16 says, they were filled with awe.
We want people leaving our church on Sundays saying wow, they did everything well. I was encouraging them to be thinking of what we can do to make our team better and then step up and do it. Don’t just work on in but work in it. We can be doing the wrong thing and be in the right environment and God will still move. People will be filled with awe.
I want to encourage you to take an evaluation of your life, your business, and your ministry and ask yourself are we reflecting the glory of Jesus with people walking away saying wow.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Order Precedes Increase
The Lord was reminding me today of certain things in my life I have to make sure I have order on prior to Him giving me the increase in that area. He reminded me of the scriptures where Jesus feeds the five thousand from Luke 9:10-17
10When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, 11but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing.
12Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, "Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here."
13He replied, "You give them something to eat."
They answered, "We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd." 14(About five thousand men were there.)
But he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15The disciples did so, and everybody sat down. 16Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to set before the people. 17They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Jesus sat them in groups of fifty and then he gave thanks and broke the bread. Did you catch that he set the order prior to the blessing.
I took this as a challenge in my life to make sure we have order in our house, in our family, in our finances and in our ministry that we have to make sure the order is there prior to God increasing it.
10When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, 11but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing.
12Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, "Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here."
13He replied, "You give them something to eat."
They answered, "We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd." 14(About five thousand men were there.)
But he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15The disciples did so, and everybody sat down. 16Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to set before the people. 17They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Jesus sat them in groups of fifty and then he gave thanks and broke the bread. Did you catch that he set the order prior to the blessing.
I took this as a challenge in my life to make sure we have order in our house, in our family, in our finances and in our ministry that we have to make sure the order is there prior to God increasing it.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Honor Local Leaders
I felt led to share what has been on my heart recently. I find a strong sensation in my heart every time I see a policeman, fireman, councilman, mayor, state legislator, governor, judge, or any other type of community leaders. I find respect and honor welling up within me when I pray about these local community leaders.
Romans 13:7 says, “fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, and respect your leaders.”
I feel we as citizens have an obligation to honor our local government and community leaders. I have taken a personal challenge on myself to make sure I am continually praying for our local leaders and businesses in Henry County, GA and the surrounding areas. I truly believe that through the actions of our local leaders and through prayer that we can make a difference in a huge way. We are filled with many amazing people in our area and I am sure if you are reading this you can think of some of the leaders in your area.
I want to challenge you to find out who some of those local leaders are in your community and pray for them and honor them. If you take them out to lunch bless them by paying for it. Honor them in any way you can. Maybe you just need to send them a gift card or a thank you card, or an encouraging email. But take a step to honor our local leaders.
Romans 13:7 says, “fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, and respect your leaders.”
I feel we as citizens have an obligation to honor our local government and community leaders. I have taken a personal challenge on myself to make sure I am continually praying for our local leaders and businesses in Henry County, GA and the surrounding areas. I truly believe that through the actions of our local leaders and through prayer that we can make a difference in a huge way. We are filled with many amazing people in our area and I am sure if you are reading this you can think of some of the leaders in your area.
I want to challenge you to find out who some of those local leaders are in your community and pray for them and honor them. If you take them out to lunch bless them by paying for it. Honor them in any way you can. Maybe you just need to send them a gift card or a thank you card, or an encouraging email. But take a step to honor our local leaders.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Stretch Out Your Hand
Don’t ever be afraid to step up and step out of your place where you are. Too many times we have a tendency to stay where we are not compelled to make a difference in our life. We have to be able to change our mind set to know that we have a purpose and destiny inside us to make a difference in not only our life but those around us. We have to evaluate our lives and find out if we are a lifter or do we drag people down.
In Matthew chapter 12, the Pharisees were questioning Jesus on why his disciples would work on the Sabbath. Jesus refers back to if any of our sheep falls and are in a pit will we not go and rescue them? So my question is we need to be treating our lives as to how can we keep from these sheep from falling into the pit? What can we do to prevent that? It all comes down to us changing. Jesus asked a man with the shriveled hand in Matthew 12 to “Stretch out his hand.” And it says he was completely restored!!
How well are you doing in your life with stretching out your hand? Will you be willing to serve on your Sabbath?
In Matthew chapter 12, the Pharisees were questioning Jesus on why his disciples would work on the Sabbath. Jesus refers back to if any of our sheep falls and are in a pit will we not go and rescue them? So my question is we need to be treating our lives as to how can we keep from these sheep from falling into the pit? What can we do to prevent that? It all comes down to us changing. Jesus asked a man with the shriveled hand in Matthew 12 to “Stretch out his hand.” And it says he was completely restored!!
How well are you doing in your life with stretching out your hand? Will you be willing to serve on your Sabbath?
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Change Happens
In order for us to live the best life we can we have to realize two things. One God does not change. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” The second thing is we have to change. Changing things grow and growing things change.
In order to have a tight relationship with God, He will continually grow us and change certain things in our lives. We must face the fact that we are in a culture that is constantly looking for the bigger and better thing. We live in a consumer driven culture and we as believers need to be sensitive to that however stand firm on the word of God.
Today I want to challenge you way of thinking and decide what are you going to change in your life to have a close relationship with God. Maybe it is something in your life you should not be doing, maybe you need to spend more time in prayer, and maybe you need to spend more time in the word. Maybe God is wanting us to wake up earlier and spend some time with him??
In order to have a tight relationship with God, He will continually grow us and change certain things in our lives. We must face the fact that we are in a culture that is constantly looking for the bigger and better thing. We live in a consumer driven culture and we as believers need to be sensitive to that however stand firm on the word of God.
Today I want to challenge you way of thinking and decide what are you going to change in your life to have a close relationship with God. Maybe it is something in your life you should not be doing, maybe you need to spend more time in prayer, and maybe you need to spend more time in the word. Maybe God is wanting us to wake up earlier and spend some time with him??
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Be A Part Of Something Big
As I was reading in Matthew chapter 10 today Jesus was sending out His 12 and gave them a powerful, motivational and inspirational message, I believe fire them up before they were sent out. He starts out in Matthew 5 and in verse 6 he says “go to the lost sheep, the kingdom of heaven is near.” He gives them purpose and direction and is very strategic about what they will face and what they will encounter. I feel this is also a message to us today on what we will face and what we will encounter in our areas.
I used to be always searching for something to fill in some void I had in my life and wanted to be a part of a movement that was much bigger than me. I finally found it when I came to know Christ. In Matthew 10:39 Jesus says, “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”
I really stand on this verse to know that I am a part of something much bigger than I am when I lose my life for Jesus. Often times He tells me to do something I don’t in the flesh want to do, but as long as I obey Him I know I will make an impact.
My challenge to you today is how are you being a part of something bigger than you? What are you doing to impact those around you? Are you creating a difference in people lives? If so is it for the better of the worse?
I used to be always searching for something to fill in some void I had in my life and wanted to be a part of a movement that was much bigger than me. I finally found it when I came to know Christ. In Matthew 10:39 Jesus says, “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”
I really stand on this verse to know that I am a part of something much bigger than I am when I lose my life for Jesus. Often times He tells me to do something I don’t in the flesh want to do, but as long as I obey Him I know I will make an impact.
My challenge to you today is how are you being a part of something bigger than you? What are you doing to impact those around you? Are you creating a difference in people lives? If so is it for the better of the worse?
Monday, January 11, 2010
Plans...What Plans??
Have you ever made plans and been disappointed by the outcome or were not able to do what you had planned? Do you think God is ever disappointed in us for not following His plans He has for us?
Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Way too many times I have made all these elaborate goals and plans to do something in my life and like Paul on the road to Damascus in Acts 9, I was knocked off my horse by God. I had plans to somehow become the next CEO of a fortune 500 company five years ago. I was on the right track, being flexible to move my family across the United States, willing to travel, willing to work 60+ hours a week to get my job done. Work every Saturday to get ahead, sacrificing my soul, my family and possibly even my future. However God had plans for me: Jeremiah 29:11 said “God had plans for me for a hope and a future, not to harm me but to prosper me.”
The more I started seeking God the more Psalm 37:4 came true which says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desire of your heart.” No longer were my plans going to prevail, it was God’s plans that were going to prevail.
To make a long story short—I am not the CEO of a fortune 500 company…yet :), I am not working at a job that makes me sacrifice my soul and family…..I wish I could say I am not working 60+ hours a week.. :) . But the bottom line, I am doing something that I truly love doing and where God has called me.
Today, search your heart and commit to what you are doing and do it with all your heart because be glad to know that in the end it is God’s plan that will prevail.
Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Way too many times I have made all these elaborate goals and plans to do something in my life and like Paul on the road to Damascus in Acts 9, I was knocked off my horse by God. I had plans to somehow become the next CEO of a fortune 500 company five years ago. I was on the right track, being flexible to move my family across the United States, willing to travel, willing to work 60+ hours a week to get my job done. Work every Saturday to get ahead, sacrificing my soul, my family and possibly even my future. However God had plans for me: Jeremiah 29:11 said “God had plans for me for a hope and a future, not to harm me but to prosper me.”
The more I started seeking God the more Psalm 37:4 came true which says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desire of your heart.” No longer were my plans going to prevail, it was God’s plans that were going to prevail.
To make a long story short—I am not the CEO of a fortune 500 company…yet :), I am not working at a job that makes me sacrifice my soul and family…..I wish I could say I am not working 60+ hours a week.. :) . But the bottom line, I am doing something that I truly love doing and where God has called me.
Today, search your heart and commit to what you are doing and do it with all your heart because be glad to know that in the end it is God’s plan that will prevail.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 14
Week 14 January 10th
Spiritual—Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Physical— Proverbs 4:22 For they are life to those who find them, and health to a man’s whole body.
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 6 days this week, Thursday full fast liquids only.
• Body-Continue work out plan work out at least 5 times this week with 3 extra cardio workouts
Family- 1 Timothy 3:4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional
• Marriage- Date night Tuesday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:12 The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.
Ministry- Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.
Spiritual—Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Physical— Proverbs 4:22 For they are life to those who find them, and health to a man’s whole body.
• Diet- Start fast—Daniel fast 6 days this week, Thursday full fast liquids only.
• Body-Continue work out plan work out at least 5 times this week with 3 extra cardio workouts
Family- 1 Timothy 3:4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.
• Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night, kids read the bible everyday and the kids fasting devotional
• Marriage- Date night Tuesday
Financial- Deuteronomy 28:12 The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.
Ministry- Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.
The Awakening Day 1
We started our corporate fast today where we have invited our church to join us in a 21 day fast. This is a time where we fast something in our life whether food or something important to us to make it a sacrifice. During the time when you would usually watch television or eat you can spend time in prayer and the word. God has really challenged me to fast these 21 days and He shared with me that this is going to be the most powerful fast I have ever had.
Jesus did not say if you fast but when you fast in Matthew 6:16. Basically He was saying that we will fast. Now He also says not to boast when we are fasting. I am not doing that today just sharing what is on my heart. God has challenged me to in the next 21 days to be blogging consistently and sharing with you what He is sharing with me. We are having our kids fast as well—they have a certain plan and fasting certain things each day and reading their Bible and devotional.
I am extremely excited to see what God is going to do these next 21 days, in my life, in our family, in our church and in our country.
Jesus did not say if you fast but when you fast in Matthew 6:16. Basically He was saying that we will fast. Now He also says not to boast when we are fasting. I am not doing that today just sharing what is on my heart. God has challenged me to in the next 21 days to be blogging consistently and sharing with you what He is sharing with me. We are having our kids fast as well—they have a certain plan and fasting certain things each day and reading their Bible and devotional.
I am extremely excited to see what God is going to do these next 21 days, in my life, in our family, in our church and in our country.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
I Have A Confession
I have a confession to make today. I have caught myself a few times in the morning turning on my computer, checking my email, my facebook, or even my twitter before spending any time with God. My days sometimes are so jammed packed from 6 in the morning until 11pm at night that I can easily get caught up in my day before getting into the Bible or praying.
Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you.”
I have made a commitment to myself no matter how busy my day is before I turn my computer on in the morning, I have to read the bible and pray prior to. Even if it is just one chapter or a 5 minute prayer—the momentum will start and then it won’t just be one chapter but 4 and it won’t just be 5 minute prayer but grow from that.
I have also felt God telling me with my days so busy not to just have Him as a time slot on my calendar or something on my to do list but make Him every part of my day. So I have also committed to making sure that I am praying all day, like Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, to pray without ceasing. Praying in my car, praying standing in the line at Starbucks, praying during every part of my day that I can, and praying while standing in the line at Starbucks….oh wait I already said that one—maybe my second trip to Starbucks :-)
So my challenge to you today, before turning your computer on, read you Bible, pray and also make him every part of your day.
Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you.”
I have made a commitment to myself no matter how busy my day is before I turn my computer on in the morning, I have to read the bible and pray prior to. Even if it is just one chapter or a 5 minute prayer—the momentum will start and then it won’t just be one chapter but 4 and it won’t just be 5 minute prayer but grow from that.
I have also felt God telling me with my days so busy not to just have Him as a time slot on my calendar or something on my to do list but make Him every part of my day. So I have also committed to making sure that I am praying all day, like Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, to pray without ceasing. Praying in my car, praying standing in the line at Starbucks, praying during every part of my day that I can, and praying while standing in the line at Starbucks….oh wait I already said that one—maybe my second trip to Starbucks :-)
So my challenge to you today, before turning your computer on, read you Bible, pray and also make him every part of your day.
Monday, January 4, 2010
40 Week Renewal of Our Life Week 13
Spiritual—Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
Physical— Jeremiah 30:17 For I will restore your health, I will heal you of your wounds.
* Diet- Start getting prepared for the 21 day fast by limiting meat and sugars this week.
* Body-Continue work out plan work out at least 5 times this week with 3 extra cardio workouts
Family— 1 Peter 5:7 Give honor to your wife. Treat her with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you, but she is an equal partner to God's gift of new life. If you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard. If you don’t treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard.
* Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night
* Marriage- Help with laundry and cleaning up of the house this week.
Financial- Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.
Ministry- 2 Corinthians 5:17 For if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation, the old has gone and the new has come.
Physical— Jeremiah 30:17 For I will restore your health, I will heal you of your wounds.
* Diet- Start getting prepared for the 21 day fast by limiting meat and sugars this week.
* Body-Continue work out plan work out at least 5 times this week with 3 extra cardio workouts
Family— 1 Peter 5:7 Give honor to your wife. Treat her with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you, but she is an equal partner to God's gift of new life. If you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard. If you don’t treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard.
* Parenting- Family Devotional Friday Night
* Marriage- Help with laundry and cleaning up of the house this week.
Financial- Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.
Ministry- 2 Corinthians 5:17 For if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation, the old has gone and the new has come.
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