Separate 2 Pray

"Those of Israelite descent separated themselves from all foreigners, and they stood and confessed their sins and guilt of their fathers."

Nehemiah 9:2 (HCSB)

For the Israelites to finally get serious, and repent, before God, they had to separate. They had to separate from the foreigners, those who were not of God. They had to separate from the junk of humanity that filled their lives.

Are you prayers getting through to God? Do you desire a closer walk with Him? Maybe you need separation in your life. Separation from people that drag you (and your relationship with Christ) down, separation from the activities that are not God honoring, separation from the busyness of life, separation from distractions.

Sometimes we just need to separate to pray. Separate from everything, so that there is only me and Him.

Choose Life.

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Skeeter

13 For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.

Psalm 139: 13-14

Max Lucado, with the help of a caterpillar named Hermie, and his friends, does a superb job of illustrating this point for children.

Skeeter is a mosquito that is ashamed of his crooked stinger. His brother has a straight stinger, and is a great adventurer. When Skeeter's brother, shows up, as the hero, in the garden where Skeeter lives with his friends, things get a little tough. Skeeter has always felt that their father looked down on him because of his crooked stinger. However, throughout the story it is discovered that, Skeeter's brother cannot fly due to small wings. The brothers are led on a treasure hunt that their father had left them.

They are led to a treasure that reveals to them the truth of Psalm 139:13-14.

I would highly recommend this video as a tool for teaching young children the truth of God's Word. And for illustrating the point that we are all unique, and made in the image of God.

Culturally Contextual

In striving to share Christ with others we must connect with them culturally, Don Richardson (author of Peace Child) demonstrates it like this:

From Preaching Magazine:

"When Caroline and I lived among the Sawi and learned their language, we found that they honored treachery as a virtue. This came to light when I told them the story of Judas betraying Jesus to death after three years of friendship. They acclaimed Judas as the hero of the story. It seemed as if it would not be easy for such people to understand God's redemption in Jesus. But lo and behold, their way of making peace required a father in one of two warring villages to make an incredible sacrifice. He had to be willing to give one of his children as a peace child to his enemies. Caroline and I saw this happen, and we saw the peace that resulted from a man's sorrowful sacrifice of his own son. That enabled me to proclaim Jesus as the greatest peace child given by the greatest father. In Lords of the Earth, the Yali tribe had places of refuge. That was their special redemptive analogy. In other words, there's something that serves as a cultural compass to point men and women toward Jesus, something that is in their own background, part of their own culture."

Fan Into Flame

2 Timothy 1:6, "Therefore, I remind you to keep ablaze the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands."(HCSB)

Oxygen is one requirement to have fire (heat and fuel are the other two). If a small fire begins to smolder in an enclosed space (a closed up room, aircraft cockpit, etc.) it will smolder for a while, then when all the oxygen is burned up, it will extinguish. However, if, during the smoldering phase, additional oxygen is introduced to the fire (a door is opened, etc.) the fire grows rapidly. A danger for firefighters is that when we arrive on-scene we sometimes, do not know, how long a fire has been burning so we must be careful when making entry, if oxygen is introduced to an almost oxygen depleted fire atmosphere, and explosive backdraft could result (as demonstrated in the movie of the same name).

In the same way, we are to introduce oxygen to the fire that God has placed within us.

We all have God given talents, abilities, and purpose. However, if we do not work on these, do things to enhance our talents, skills, abilities, and further God's purpose in our lives, the smoldering fire with in us will die, and we will live a non-fruit bearing life.

If God has given you a musical talent, you must use it. Study music, listen to music, read about music, play music, sing, do music. Or the music God has placed with in you will die.

If God has given you the gift of preaching/teaching, you must utilize it. Preach, teach, learn the art of public speaking, read about preaching/teaching, increase your knowledge of the material to be preached (God's Word).

Often times people come to Christ, but they are only Christians for a short time. What has happened is that they have had insufficient amounts of oxygen, fanning their flame of salvation. New Christians need to be surrounded with other Christians, they need to be led to Christian resources, and spend considerable amounts of time with God (in His Word, and prayer).

As "seasoned" Christians we understand the value of constantly applying the oxygen of God's Word, and time spent with Him, to the flame of salvation that is within us.

Awkward Worship

What's with raising of the arms in worship? It feels awkward.

It is supposed to feel awkward. In military time if a soldier keeps his head down, and stays in his foxhole he is safe. However, if he pokes his head up or raises his hand it is certain death...or surrender.

That is the reason for awkward worship. It is us, poking our head out of our little, insignificant lives, and telling God, take me, I surrender. I surrender my life to you. I am dying to myself, my desires, my plans, my goals, my ambitions. I am surrendered to a life in Christ.

Violence in Film

This is a good video on sin/violence in cinema:

Wayward

My close friend and is destroying her life. Her whole life she has been surrounded by a family and friends that love, and care for her. She continually makes poor life decisions, even when those who care about her (including myself) give her advice, she takes the advice and agrees, but then is soon back to her old ways. Her parents are distraught, her friends are concerned. What are we supposed to do? I would like to just take her and make all her decisions for her, and cut her out of her own decisions. I know that is not possible.

As I was pondering these things, the thought occurred to me that this is how Jesus Christ must feel. He has given us every opportunity in life, He has given us a life guide (the Bible) to making wise decisions, He has surrounded us with love (He gave His life for us), yet their are those who trash their lives, and pay no attention to Him. Jesus Christ heart must break, when He looks down, and sees what mess we are making of things. I am sure He weeps, when He says, "I have given you every opportunity, all you need, to live a full life. Why won't you listen, and obey."

Transforming Theology

In case your interested:

Scott Hamilton, The Great Eight

This is a great figure skating story. It is much more, however, than just a figure skating story. It’s a story of inspiration, of overcoming life obstacles, of maintaining healthy relationships, and of leading a life of happiness.
Each chapter is based on a lessons learned from Scott’s figure skating career, as well as, through his struggle with lifelong physical ailments (including cancer, twice).

His story can be an inspiration to all. Even when things are going bad, or you are in a down time of life, happiness can still be found.

Scott tells how he would never have been the success that he is, if he would have given up after falling down on the ice. He had to repeatedly get up, and fall down, before he could land his infamous jumps.

The key to all our success and happiness is to trust our Almighty Coach, Jesus Christ. Scott had to trust his coach’s judgement, and instruction. He could not have succeeded on his own.

Never lose. There is always something to be discovered in our seeming “losses”. However, if we are able to better ourselves through these “losses” then they are not losses at all, but wins!

To experience happiness in our relationships, it is critical that we maintain clear communication. Keep the ice clear. Just as it is hard to skate on used ice that has tracks from other skater, so it is with our relationships. If we continue to dwell on the past, or suppose the past predicates the future, we will never experience true relational happiness.

Scott talks about how amazing Kristi Yamaguchi’s smile is, and how she always has a smile, even when she falls. This is important to our life happiness, always smile. Decide, to be happy.

There is much more to living a life of happiness. By following the guidelines in this book, one can be far along on the road of obtaining a life of happiness and true success!

Authentic Faith

This is taken from the business blog of Seth Godin, however, it has a very practical implication for our Christian faith.

"If it acts like a duck (all the time), it's a duck. Doesn't matter if the duck thinks it's a dog, it's still a duck as far as the rest of us are concerned.

Authenticity, for me, is doing what you promise, not "being who you are".

That's because 'being' is too amorphous and we are notoriously bad at judging that. Internal vision is always blurry. Doing, on the other hand, is an act that can be seen by all.

As the Internet and a connected culture places a higher premium on authenticity (because if you're inconsistent, you're going to get caught) it's easy to confuse authentic behavior with an existential crisis. Are you really good enough, kind enough, generous enough and brave enough to be authentically a hero or leader?

Mother Theresa was an atheist, filled with self doubt. But she was an authentic saint, because she always acted like one.

You could spend your time wondering if what you say you are is really you. Or you could just act like that all the time. That's good enough, thanks. Save the angst for later."

As Christians, are we being authentic in our faith?

Socio-Economic Catering

Socio-economic catering in the church:

Expectant Surprise

A couple nights ago my brother-in-law (Brad) texted me to say that he had a friend of the family that was diagnosed with cancer a while ago. The man was in chemo and radiation when Brad last saw him. Brad asked the man if he could have one of his friends pray with him. The man agreed and the individual prayed for him! The man just recently went back for a doctor's appointment and they ran tests and the cancer is gone! The doctors in the hospital say they cannot find any signs of cancer!

This is an awesome story of healing. A story of what my Jesus is like, of what he wants to do for us.

I often wonder, why are these stories of miraculous healing are so surprising? As a Christian shouldn't this be expected?

We are very thankful to God for His grace, mercy, power, healing. Perhaps, we need to be more expectant in our faith/prayer.

Prayer Answered

This is a facebook note written by my wife:

I am writing this note to give God praise again and again for all His many blessings in my life! We have all been through so many things in the past six months! We have been hearing of all the terrible tragedies in our loved-ones lives and we have been praying continuously for these families! There also may have been some of your own near tragedies in your own dear life. Whatever situation you find yourself in..... I hope you find this note encouraging that we do still serve an amazing God that does heal and take care of us! Be encouraged that our God still is amazing! And He does prove it over and over again! This is one of my true lived miracles I would like to share with you!As all of you may know about two years ago this past january I was in the hospital for a CT scan, due to horrible migraines. I started getting them in May 2004 right before I graduated! Needless to say by december 2006 they continued to get worse and more frequent! I went from a migraine every couple of months, to about one a month, increasing to about three or four a week! Finally in january 2007 three months after we were married, I passed out at my grandparents house where we were visiting family in Indiana. Aaron took me to the hospital, and they did a CT scan and it was negative. After much pain, and many tests in the hospital we went back to my grandparents house so that I could continue to rest. Once I arrived my brother Brad called, and said he had a friend that wanted to pray with me for my migraines..... for God's healing touch! Honestly, I was hesitant at first, (atleast at this point without much faith of my own ) but I knew I needed to give it a try! We went over to my brother's house where we met the individual and he started to pray with me... ...and sure enough there was a power of healing that took place in my brother's little apartment that afternoon. I can't explain it. The only thing I could relate it to was the feeling I use to get in revivals when people prayed through... or at camp meetings when you knew that someone was really touched! I am telling you that I walked into my brother's apartment, with a filled prescription (migraine medicine) in my purse, and walked out never once needing to use a pill out of that prescription!I am happy and very thankful to God that I just celebrated His healing touch in my own life! I have been without "ANY" migraines for two years as of this past january 2009! Our God we serve CAN and WILL take care of us... all we have to do is believe and be faithful to seek Him and He prevails!

God's Time

I have been reading through the books of Samuel.

It is interesting that when we read about Samuel, there is a lot that is unsaid. Samuel starts with him as a boy, and talks about some experiences that he had. Then we hear nothing, until Saul is annointed as King of Israel. Then, Samuel appears in Saul's story periodically, and then we read of him anointing David as the next king.

Samuel did great things, he was used of God (to the point of having a Bible book named for him).

In our lives as Christians, we want to be used of God, in a supernatural way. So, to accomplish that we try to do a lot of things in our own power. Often these are good, noble, "Christian", things. However, they are not God things.

No doubt, Samuel served God in an awesome way throughout his life. However, we only read of portions of these things.

So it is with our own lives, we can do many things for God, but God has a specific opportunity/responsibility for us. He will use us in His time, and for His purpose. Not ours.

Christian Porn Church

The people that brought us XXXChurch.com (a ministry to those addicted to porn, and involved in the porn industry), now have a church on the Las Vegas Strip....Strip Church.

This is an awesome ministry, that is serving these people in a way the traditional church never could or would.



Check out their ministry and get involved!

Campfire Lesson

Sitting around the campfire last night, I was reminded of a lesson I was taught in Fire Academy.

Things do not burn. The wood pallets thrown on the fire do not burn. What actually happens is that the wood reaches its ignition point, the molecules freak out and start to break down, in the process the item turns to vapor and it is this vapor that actually burns (this can be plainly seen by looking closesly at the wick of a burning candle, you will see that the flame is actually not touching the wick).

As Christians, have we reached our ignition point, or are we still cold? Our we on fire for Christ in such a way that we are releasing His "vapor"? Is our relationship with Him evident to those around us, because we are emitting the love of Christ, and things of the Kingdom?

Dave Ramsey's Success Reads

Dave Ramsey is a nationally syndicated talk show host, specializing in finance. He is also author of "The Total Money Makeover", and "Financial Peace University". He recommends the following books for success life, money, and relationship with Jesus Christ.

I wanted to post them here for your reading pleasure, and to elicit any comments or reviews you may have concerning these titles.

1.) QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability in Work and in Life

2.) The Go Getter - Peter Kyne

3.) Rhinoceros Success

4.) The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Principles for Successful Living

Just wanted to alert you all to these potentially valuable resources. I recently added "Rhinoceros Success" to my collection; I will give you a review when I complete it.

Virginity, $3,000,000

This is an interesting and troubling article, about a girl who is auctioning off her virginity to the highest bidder (to pay for a Masters Degree in Family and Marriage Therapy...irony!)...


Student auctions off virginity for offers of more than £2.5 million
A student who is auctioning her virginity to pay for a masters degree in Family and Marriage therapy has seen bidding hit £2.5million ($3.7m).

Your reaction?

Hello, Goodbye

From How Starbucks Saved My Life: A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else , Michael Gate Gill writes about his last day, before he goes to work at a different Starbucks location.

One of his regular customers, Ella, a two year old and her father, tell him bye...Gill write, "...I willed myself to take Ella's positive attitude. "Hi" and "Bye" were equally exciting to her. And should be to me."

You see, "Bye" is not a negative, its as positive as "Hi". "Bye" is leaving one thing (whether loved or hated), and "Hi" to another. A new experience, another chapter of life.

Prosperity Praise

Something fun for Saturday...

Ted Haggard, Lessons to the Church

What Ted Haggard can still teach the church

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted: January 14, 2009
1:00 am Eastern


By Alan Chambers
© 2009


Ted Haggard is having his say. The former pastor of a Colorado megachurch who admitted to a sexual relationship with a male escort in 2006, is now sharing his story in a documentary called "The Trials of Ted Haggard." On Jan. 29, the film premieres on HBO and will follow the life of the former pastor and re-examine the scandal that rocked the evangelical world. While the film is bound to bring up old wounds and raise more questions, there are some important lessons that the church can learn from Ted Haggard.

When the story broke in 2006, I, along with thousands of others, was shocked. I had brief contact with Ted Haggard in his role as leader of the National Association of Evangelicals at various meetings. His deception grieved me as did the media's portrayal of him as the worst kind of hypocrite – a two-faced man who preached the Gospel of Christ by day and engaged in homosexual activity and drug abuse by night. People asked how it was possible for someone to oppose homosexual sin while indulging in it.

As he himself wrote in his confession, "There is a part of my life that is so repulsive and dark that I've been warring against it all of my adult life." If you had asked the thousands that attended his Colorado Springs church, I imagine most would have said they had no idea their pastor struggled with homosexuality. The same could be the said for our own churches. It might be easy for us to judge the outside world, but how often do we recognize the broken and hurting in our own pews? For every gay activist that shouts in the parades, I'm willing to bet that there's someone in our congregations who painfully struggles with homosexuality, but is afraid to reach out for help. I know because I was that person.

(Column continues below)




As a teenager, I was in church every Sunday and harbored my own secret – a battle with homosexuality. Like Ted Haggard, I, too, was molested at a young age and found myself dealing with unwanted same-sex attraction. I gave in to my feelings and found gay life fun for a season, but eventually realized it would be lonely for a lifetime. More importantly, I was living in deep conflict with my own Christian beliefs. I felt like a hypocrite, and I went searching for help. At the time, it seemed no church would touch the issue and thus I found Exodus International, a ministry that helps those dealing with this particular struggle. Godly men and women walked beside me as I began to deal with underlying wounds and discovered my true identity in Christ. They demonstrated the bold love of Jesus Christ when I needed it most, and now, 18 years later, I am blessed to do the same for others.

The truth is that most Christians struggle with a particular sin in their lives. It might be an uncontrolled temper. Maybe it's substance abuse or even a secret grudge harbored toward someone. Or maybe, like Ted Haggard and me, it's a struggle with lust and sexual brokenness. While there is freedom through the power of Christ, the sad truth remains that there is still something terribly wrong in many of our congregations, something that all of the marriage protection laws and constitutional amendments cannot fix. Many of our churches are not safe places for us to be vulnerable and seek help and so many continue to suffer in silence. The choice of committing sin and disobeying God has always been our personal responsibility, but we in the church desperately need each other. And yet, in many churches, people are still donning masks and ignoring the very hurts and struggles that God instructs us to be open about. If we are to make any progress in reaching a hurting world, our churches need to be a place of healing and accountability. This starts by every one of us, including our leadership, admitting to our struggles and asking fellow Christians for help.

In the end, however, it is the loving and redemptive nature of God to take our messes and even our most tragic circumstances and use them for something beautiful. Often, the villain in our movies and news stories "gets his," and that's the last we ever hear from them. But the grace of Jesus Christ isn't content just to leave things at that. God wants to reach out to all who have fallen, even the villains in the world's stories. Convicted Watergate criminal Chuck Colson is a perfect example of how God can take a disgraced public figure and bless him with a fantastic and far-reaching ministry. The Apostle Paul was one of the early church's most feared persecutors before God intervened and made him one of Jesus' most zealous supporters. No one is beyond the same redemptive power. Christ came to the world to set captives free, and no one is exempt from that promise. So, while Ted Haggard is having his say, it is far better to know that in the end, God will always have his.
___________________________________________________

This article taken from Exodus International Ministries.

I thought this was a great article...would love to hear your responses.

Divine Work (pt.4)

I am in the process of reading the book, "How Starbucks Saved My Life". It is the memoir of Michael Gates Gill. A man who was raised in a lap of luxury, went straight from an Ivy League university, into a high paying advertising job. After more than 25 years with the company the "let him go".

He then started his own advertising firm and after another 10 years of that he lost all of his clients, and around the same time was divorced from his long-term wife, and mother of his three adult children. His life of luxury was falling apart. He finally landed a job at a local Starbucks.

He relates to a story from his past, while contemplating his new work philosophy...

"...Fitzgerald wrote, "She realized too late that work was dignity."
Work is dignity, I repeated to myself. That could be my mantra.
Why had it taken me so long to realize this essential truth? Fitzgerald had written his daughter thhis key perception, yet I had fought my daughter Elizabeth, whom I called 'Bis', when she had wanted to go to work. When she was just twelve years old, she had been offered a sumer job helping the tennis pro with scheduling and teaching and I had turned down the job offer- without even talking to Bis about it.
"How could you do that, Daddy?" Bis had cried, tears cascading from her eyes.
"But I want you to have a chance just to enjoy yourself this summer."
"But I like to work," Bis had angrily replied.
For me, work was something one had to do, not what one should do. I admired those who never had to work... and lusted after the huge trust funds of some of my richer friends. I thought I was doing Bis a favor by protecting her from having to work. How wrong I had been."

His bio on the back cover sums up his new work philosophy "...(he) has no plans to retire from what he calls the best job he's ever had."

Speaking Engagement

I will be speaking Sunday (1/18/09) at Community Wesleyan Church, in Intercession City, Florida.

My topic is "God, Our Refuge", using a text from Deut. 19:1-13 (Cities of Refuge). I will be using illustrations from my experience in the fire service.

Outline:

1. Refuge is within easy reach.
- Illustration- New Years Eve Bangkok Fire; Cocoanut Grove nightclub fire.
- Clear way of escape.
- Rev. 3:20
- I Cor. 10:13

2. Refuge is open/available to all, no one is turned away.
- John 3:16, "whosoever"

3. The one in need will have life.
-Romans 3:23

4. Refuge is the only alternative, without it, total destruction.
- House of Refuge, Hutchinson Island, FL
- Psalms 46:1

5. The accused is protected with the boundaries of the city only. Outside of city means destruction.
- Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine, FL
- SCBA mask, firefighter's life-line

6. Full freedom comes only with the death of the High Priest.
- Jesus as High Priest
- Hebrews 2:17-18

I will post the video recording of the message here within the week. Thank you.

Spiritual Formation Tour

Saturday I attended a Spiritual Formation seminar (by the Wesleyan Church). It was a wonderful time of refreshing the spirit, and learning methods of developing spiritual formation in ourselves and those in our churches. It was good to be reminded of the fact that the most important spiritual formation to maintain is our own. We must follow spiritual discipline, and take care of our own spiritual formation before we can train/develop others.

I attended the youth ministry track. Their were many valuable things discussed. However, the most important thing was the emphasis of mentoring; the importance of a one-on-one relationship with the students in our youth groups. Students will come to churches were they are accepted and loved. As we strive to develop spiritual formation in the lives of our students, mentoring becomes essential.

In my youth ministry experience the most valuable times of ministry were the times outside of church/youth group. They were the times at McDonald's after church. They were the times of taking a student along to perform some task, nothing really planned, just spending time with these students.

They gave a staggering stastic: 90% of Christians today are converted before the age of 14. Youth spiritual formation/ministry is more important now than ever.

We dsicussed 5 steps to establishing youth groups:

1.) Pray (for God's annointing on the ministry, spiritual strength, teen leaders).

2.) Develop a teen prospect list (write the names of teens, known or not known, and their hangouts, develop rapport).

3.) Have a start-up meeting (with whatever students you may have, what do they want the ministry to look like, what's important).

4.) Plan a big kick-off event (develop importance of youth ministry, outreach, promote).

5.) Stick to it (develop long-term goals, plan to stay for the long haul, youth pastor turnover rate is probably the #1 killer of youth groups).

Their are many youth ministry resources available at... www.unstoppableministries.com

Bondage to the King

1 Samuel 8:6-22 is the story of Israel's request for a king.

v. 6 "...give us a king to judge us..."
v. 7 "...they have not rejected you; the have rejected Me as their king."
v. 9 "...warn them..."
v. 11-18 "These are the rights of the king who will rule over you...he can take your sons...he can take your daughters...he can take a tenth of your grain and your vineyards...he can take your male servants....you yourselves can become his servants."

Israel was pleading with the prophet Samuel, for a king. Samuel "considered their demand sinful", so he brought it before the Lord. The Lord replied with, give them what they want, but it will be bad for them.

The Israelites up to this point had only God to lead them. But, they began to look around at other nations, and those around them, they felt like they were missing out on something. It looked like the neighboring nations had something great! They asked for a king.

They no longer wanted to be under the sole leadership of Christ. They rejected him for a king. The Lord, through Samuel, warns them of the troubles they will face with a king.

It is sad to say that everyday those around us are behaving just as the Israelites. They are rejecting the King of Kings, for other "kings" in their life. They look around and feel like they are missing out on something. Maybe they are a Christ follower, however, they are turned from the way of Christ for their desire of following the world. Or, perhaps this is what keeps a soul from turning to Christ, they are afraid of all they will "lose". They see the life of unbelievers (pleasurable for a season), they don't want to miss out!

Under Christ's lordship, the Israelites had complete freedom. They operated in the parameters of God's Word. However, they looked around, they saw something "better".

The Lord warns them of the trouble they will face. He will utilize their family. They will lose their sons and daughters, the king will put them to work. He will use them as he sees fit, not according to the purposes of God.

The king will take their possesions. He will take their land, vineyards, and fields. They will be his to use as the king wishes.

The king will take their servants, and donkeys (essential "tools" for the agrarian culture of the day). Any fields left that the Isrealites have would not be able to be worked to their full potential.

The kind will take their flocks, and they will become his servants. The king will finally take their freedom. With little fields, no tools to work them, with their flocks (source of meat) taken, they are left with no choice but to become fully in bondage to the king.

Family (that which we are closest too), purpose, possessions, potential, freedom....the king would take that which Satan is till trying to take from God's people.

Under Christ we have complete freedom. We have closeness with God (closer than a brother), we can only fully understand relationships with others after we have a relationship with Him, we have freedom to pursue God's purpose for our lives, when in need we still possess Christ (He possesses us), we are enabled to reach our full potential in Him.

People everyday, however, are looking around, they freak out because they fear that God is going to mess up, their lives they have planned for themselves can never happen with God. So, they choose to follow a different king.

Satan comes in, things may go good for a season, but eventually it all falls apart. Satan works the same way, attacks our relationships, robs us of purpose, dispossesses us of Christ, defeats us from reaching our full potential.

[relationships, purpose, possessions, potential, freedom]

Year End Book Review '08

After years of reading countless books, unaccounted for, I decided this year that I would begin keeping track of the books I read. So, here you will find a list of this years read books, along with a brief review/recommendation, and miscellaneous thoughts.

All the Money in the World: This is a very interesting read. It tells of the people whose names have made it on the Forbes 400 list of richest people. It is separated into three categories, "how they make their money", "how they keep their money", "how they spend their money". I highly recommend this book, as it is very informative, and offers a glimpse into a life that few of us know.

A Daily Guide to Miracles, by Oral Roberts: After watching these preachers on television, I thought I would read their book to have a better understanding of their views and philosophies. They have some good thoughts concerning God. For a person like myself, being raised in the church, not believing in a prosperity gospel, with a small emphasis on miracles, this book gives yet another perspective on God and Christianity. Their are some very good principals, but also some false principals. This book is worth a skim through, to help better understand the prosperity gospel/miracle healing movement.

A Painted House, by John Grisham: An exceptionally written, coming of age story (no law involved). This is the story of a summer (set in the '50's) in the life of a cotton farm family. Although this is an excellent story, I more prefer stories with a conflict that end in a resolution. This story just kind of ends, with nothing to really be resolved, just telling a story about something that happened.

Pagan Christianity, by Frank Viola: I highly recommend this book for anyone involved in a church. Frank Viola [reimaginingchurch blog] goes into great detail describing how the way we do church, the church traditions, is taken, not from the Bible, but from various pagan practices that have been adopted (under false scriptural pretense) into the church. His solution is to do church according to the New Testament, believers meeting together in homes, sharing one anothers needs. I highly recommend this book as it has the power to change your church, and deepen your relationship with God.

Harvest, by Chuck Smith: This is the story of the Calvary Chapel church movement. This book tells the story of several Calvary Chapel pastors, their past, where they came from (the sin that God delivered them from), and how God is using them today. Profiles include Greg Laurie, John Courson, Raul Ries, Jeff Johnson, Skip Heitzig, Mike Macintosh, and more.

Eat Mor Chicken, Inspire More People, by Truett Cathy: What make Chik-fil-a such an exceptional business? The secret is out with this book. Truett Cathy's principals for starting and running his Chik-fil-a restaurants can, and should, be applied to your business, ministry, or personal life. I highly recommend this book for those that want to achieve the next level of success in their work/life.

Get Ready to Grow, by Paul Orjala: An old ('80's?) book on church growth. I read it for entertainment purposes only. Their are many dying churches, whose only strategy for church growth is this one from the '80's. They refuse to change with the times (maybe from ignorance, fear, or stubborness).

You Were Born Rich, by Bob Proctor: A self-help guide on being wealthy and successful. This books have some value, some of the principals are good principals for personal/business growth. However, there is more to life that one needs in order to have true wealth and success, the missing ingredient from these types of books is always, Jesus Christ.

Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham, by Harold Myra: Great book for leaders. This book outlines the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) success, the principals that make Billy Graham a great leader, and how you can lead the same way. This is a must read for leaders in ministry.

The Millionaire Next Door, by Thomas Stanley: Loaded with facts and statistics on wealth (obtaining it, keeping it, investing it, giving it, spending it). This book talks about how the people who are the most wealthy often do not appear to be so, they are typical normal people in a normal neighborhood. The so-called wealthy living in the extravagant house, in the gated community, driving the luxurious automobile, wearing thousand dollar suits, are often not truly wealthy. These type of people spend all they get, while, in order to be truly wealthy (monetary worth), money must be saved and properly invested. Interesting read on the wealthy.

Plague Maker, by Tim Downs: This is a fiction book, some parts based on actual events. The premise of the story is that a Japanese man has created a plague and plans to spread it to kill all Americans. The story incorporates actual events from World War 2, including a bio-chem organization known as Unit 731, and the dropping of the atomic bomb. This is a good fiction/suspense/thriller novel.


This year was also my attempt at writing. I wrote, and self published, my first booklet (available at the right of the screen, or request free download), "Christian Scents". This booklet is based on two sermons I preached, one on the scent of death, the other on the aroma of life.

The scent of death is in reference to the fact that as Christians we are called to die to ourselves, live for God, to reach others. We no longer have a "comfort zone", our hobbies, interests, likes are not our own, our "comfort zone" is whatever is required for us to reach others for Christ.

The aroma of life is from scripture when Paul speaks about the Christian life being a sweet smeeling fragrance. The booklet talks about the significance of fragrance, what it means to us today, and how to achieve a sweet aroma that attracts others to Christ.

Post Preview....

Stand-by for these exciting upcoming posts...

Year End Book Review '08- this will be a brief review/overview of all the books I've read through 2008.

Go'el- I will begin an on-going study of the Go'el (kinsman redeemer), from scripture.

As always, reader input/comments/opinions are welcome.

Merry Christmas!

Just want to say, Merry Christmas! Thank you for your readership.

As you excitedly open your presents this Christmas day, and realize that all you got was socks and cheap cologne, do not fret. Remember, this is not what Christmas is all about.

Don't forget the reason for the season, Jesus Christ, our redemption!

Have a very Merry Christmas!!

Living with the Grinch

This time of year it is not unusual to hear the deep, gravely refrains of Thurl Ravenscroft's, "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch".






On the surface this is just a silly Dr. Seus story and song. However, I think there is more to the story beyond the surface. If we look at it closely we realize that the story of the Grinch is the essence of Christmas. It is a story of redemption.

In the song we have this amazing description of a wicked person. A carnal person, a person consumed with sin and selfishness. We have a word picture of the sinful human condition.

In the movie, we see the people of Whoville overcome their own selfishness, pride, and judgemental attitudes. They reach out to the Grinch, and he is, in a sense, forgiven and redeemed.

This is the story of Christmas. A story of redemption. Without the Christ of Christmas we look like the Grinch (garlic in our soul, hearts full of unwashed socks, souls full of gunk). It is only through Christ and accepting him into our lives that we are redeemed and our lives are cleaned up and we become more appealing than a "seasick crocodile".

Have a Merry Christmas!

Let us not forget the Christ who came to offer us Redemption!

Professional Listening

Listening to the "Calvary Chapel Live" broadcast (from Calvary Chapel Ft. Lauderdale) with pastor Bob Coy, brought up an interesting thought.

As Christians we are surrounded by Christian teaching. We have radio stations, tv stations, live church services to go to. We have access to all this Christian information. Due to this fact, most Christians have become professional listeners.

We can tell you what each preachers teaching style is like, we can tell what their favorite topic to preach on is, we can tell you how long they preach, what words they use the most, whether their more of a topical preacher or an expositor. We are professional listeners.

James 1:22 says this, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves."

Christianity requires more than just listening it requires action. It is a wonderful thing to be surrounded by all these sources of Biblical knowledge. This is what we need as Christians, this is how we are exposed to the light of His Word. But, we must not only listen to the information, we must act upon it.

Be more than a professional listener. Take action, be a doer!

Truth Review

I (and a small group) just completed going through a 13 week study on truth. It's called the Truth Project, and was created by Focus on the Family.

The twelve lessons are referred to as tours, and Dr. Del Tackett is our guide on these tours. Dr. Del Tackett, presents this information in an easy to understand way, utilizing visual aids, and other interviews.

Dr. Tackett uses the visual of a temple (a Truth Temple, so to speak). And he very carefully builds this temple starting with the foundation (the first 4 tours), and then putting into place the pillars (the next 4 tours), and finally ending with the top of the temple, the four spheres.

These twelve tours, that make up the Truth Temple, consist of:

Tour 1: Veritology

The focal point for this first hour of discussion is the concept of Truth itself. What is truth? Why is it important? What role does it play in the biblical view of the world, God's purpose for the cosmos, His will for mankind, His plan of salvation, and the way we live our personal lives?

Tour 2: Philosophy & Ethics

In essence, the message of this lesson parallels the precept of Proverbs 23:7 – "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." The heart of the discussion lies in the thought that there is a formal and vital connection between our ideas about the nature of the world (philosophy) and our understanding of right and wrong behavior (ethics).

Tour 3: Anthropology

We engage in an in-depth examination of biblical and contemporary ideas about the nature of the human race. The focus of the discussion is anthropology: Who is man? Where did he come from? What is the meaning and purpose of his existence?

The answers we bring to these questions have a direct bearing upon our approach to another pressing problem, one of the thorniest and most challenging of all – Why is there evil in the world?


Tour 4: Theology

"Who is God?" Knowing God, he argues, ought to be our passion and our highest goal; for until we look upon His face, we cannot rightly know ourselves or begin to grasp the meaning of our existence in the world.

Tour 5: Science

In the process, we will discover that whereas "the heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork" (Psalm 19:1) so that the Creator's "invisible attributes are plainly seen" (Romans 1:20), mankind has nevertheless chosen to ignore the obvious truth, twisting scientific investigation into a vehicle for propagating a godless philosophy of human independence and self-determination.

Tour 6: History

We take a close look at the importance of maintaining a firm grip on the past. In the process, we will see that a proper appreciation of historical context – in other words, our place in God's "larger story" – is fundamental to an accurate understanding of almost every aspect of our lives. History provides us with indispensable insights into the meaning of existence, God's plan and purpose for the ages, man's responsibility toward the Creator, and his duty toward his fellow creatures.

Tour 7: Sociology

Now we turn south to consider some of the amazingly detailed reflections of God's nature inherent in the social order. According to Dr. Tackett, the evidences of the divine imprint that we see in this realm are even more awe-inspiring and more indicative of the heart of the Creator than the marvels of DNA replication or the complexities of the blood-clotting system. But for this very reason they also stand closer to the focal point of the Cosmic Battle.

Tour 8: Unio Mystica

We are now led on a tour of the socialsphere that Dr. Tackett characterizes as the heart and soul of Christianity: the Mystical Union (Latin, Unio Mystica) between God and man. Here, in the most intimate and profoundly mysterious sphere of the "Intimate Three" (family, church, and the God-man relationship), we have the privilege of pondering exactly what it is that Christ has purchased for us at the price of His precious blood shed on the cross for our sins: not simply salvation from hell, but an invitation into the Godhead itself, where we may experience the incomprehensible wonder of oneness with the Creator of the universe.

Tour 9: The State

We now examine the spheres of the state, politics, and law. On this, the ninth of twelve worldview tours to be completed during the course of The Truth Project, we will take a close and careful look at how these spheres are interconnected and how they relate to other aspects of the social realm: family, church, labor, community, and the relationship between God and man. Special attention will be given to the design, structure, and role of the state, its place in God's plan for human society, and the rightful extent and limits of its power. The state, as we will see, has the capacity to exert a tremendous power for good in the affairs of mankind as long as it operates within its proper boundaries; but it also has the potential to become the most horrendously pathological and abusive of all the social spheres if not kept in check.

Tour 10: The American Experiment

We want to take a brief look at the question, "What should God'sminister on earth (Romans 13:4) look like? What is a proper form for this agency that is divinely appointed and commissioned to administer justice, punish evil, and encourage goodness among its citizens or subjects?" We will approach this task by considering the American Experiment.

Tour 11: Labor

We will find that creative labor is a vital element of God's plan for the social realm; that work is not a "curse," as it is often represented today, but an essential element of our humanity; that it is, in fact, rooted in the nature of God Himself, the Original Worker. We will also learn that the structure of this sphere parallels that of the others we have already visited in that it also appears triune in design. And we will begin to see that the importance of work is closely related to our divinely given responsibility to care for the poor.

Tour 12: Community & Involvement

Here, perhaps more than in any other sphere or field of inquiry, we will have an opportunity to draw near to the Creator and learn what it is that has compelled Him to draw near to us. We will find that the God of the Scriptures is in fact the Lord of the lonely, the Savior of the outcast, the Defender of the defenseless, and the Sustainer of all who find themselves in need. Our call is to become like Him by discovering what it means to not only love Him, but to love our neighbor.


This study on all areas of truth in life is essential for any church or believer. This study will open your eyes to the true nature, character, and heart of Christ, who is Truth.

These 12 Tours are all filmed to the highest quality standards. The tours lend themselves, very easily, to open group discussion. There is also a website, in which participants can log in and take advantage of additional resources (outlines, study guides, powerpoint slides), and discuss the content of the tours.

This study cannot be led by just anyone, the study leader must first become "certified" by attending a Focus on the Family, Truth Project, seminar.

You can find more information at The Truth Project.

Also, check out the promotional video below.

The Advent Conspiracy

This article taken from Relevant Magazine.

This demonstrate the true meaning of Christmas. As Christians we should be leading the charge to promote what Christmas is really all about.



The Advent Conspiracy


This year, Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving that traditionally kicks off the season of holiday spending—was especially dark. Early that day, a crowd of bargain hunters trampled an employee to death as they rushed into a New York Wal-Mart at 5 a.m. Three others, including a 28-year-old pregnant woman, also suffered from minor injuries. As reports about the incident continued to surface throughout the day, many were asking, "Is this what Christmas has become?"


If the more than 800 churches worldwide who are participating in Advent Conspiracy are to be believed, the answer to that question is a resounding no. Advent Conspiracy is a movement that started in 2006 as a way to reclaim the Christmas season. "There's been a significant drift from the worship of Jesus," says Greg Holder, the pastor of Windsor Crossing in St. Louis, Mo., and one of the creators of Advent Conspiracy. "We've seen anxiety and frustration consume entire communities as people start believing the lie that celebrating Christmas is about hyper consumerism."


Holder, along with Chris Seay, the pastor of Ecclesia in Houston, Texas and Rick McKinley, pastor of Imago Dei in Portland, Ore., launched Advent Conspiracy as a way to lead their congregations into meaningful worship during Christmastime. They put the focus squarely on worship and service instead of gifts and established four guiding principles: Worship Fully, Spend Less, Give More and Love All.


If the principles "spend less" and "give more" seem contradictory, that's because U.S. culture's understanding of giving is a little off. Consumerism allows people to create the illusion of giving without having to sacrifice anything personal. The three pastors encouraged their congregations to forgo much of their gift buying and spending on commercial items, and instead to give gifts of presence, creativity and time.


It isn't that most gifts are wrong, just misguided. "We're not Scrooges," Holder says. "We're not against gifts. We want people to pull back on giving meaningless gifts."


The money that would’ve been spent on presents was pooled and used to provide clean water for communities in third world countries. According to Jeanne McKinley, Rick McKinley's wife and the director of Advent Conspiracy at Imago Dei, the decision to connect Advent Conspiracy with water was deliberate, contrasting the desperate need for water in many places to the comfortable lifestyles of those in the U.S. "Water is a starting point. It's the most basic need that all of us have," she says. "If we meet that need then we can go forward in relationship with the people receiving clean water."


The first year, five churches participated; by the second year, it spread to include not only hundreds of churches but also high schools, college groups and businesses. Holder considers Advent Conspiracy a common ground where people from all corners of the Christian tradition can meet. "This is a way for the body of Christ to unite,” he says. “It's not just one type of church jumping on board with this. Young, old, liturgical, contemporary, non-denominational, mainline—they're all in. We spend a lot of time talking about our differences, but this is a chance to remind ourselves we are the body of Christ."


One such church, Jacob's Well in Kansas City, Mo., decided to join in 2007. The pastor at Jacob’s Well, Tim Keel, liked that it was a practical extension of the concepts in the book of James, which his congregation studied that fall.


Keel knew his congregation would be willing participants in Advent Conspiracy, but he wasn't prepared for how enthusiastic their response would truly be. As children grasped the core concepts of Advent Conspiracy they asked for money to give to the water collection instead of gifts. Families attended gift-making workshops to learn how to make unique presents for one another. Artists from the Jacob's Well community donated their talents and time to make the season creatively stimulating and truly worshipful.


"I was thinking we'd dig one well," Keel says. "When we had the money to dig four, it was significant. I was surprised by how people took ownership of it, not just as something they were doing in our church, but inviting other people from their lives to participate as well."
As more churches and groups continue to climb on board, Advent Conspiracy will remain decentralized, acting not as an organization but as a resource. It isn't the desire of Advent Conspiracy to dictate how people are celebrating Christmas and donating their money, but to enable congregations to encourage and support each other as they recover the advent season.
"Ultimately, it would be amazing for the Church to stand together and see the water crisis solved because that's how we wanted to spend our Christmas," Jeanne McKinley says. "But for us, the Jesus component is the most important part. Beyond the giving and spending less, more than anything, we want people to engage in worship more fully at Christmas."


Author: Shanna Dipaolo

The Parents' Night Before Christmas

THE PARENTS' NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the houseI searched for the tools to hand to my spouse.

Instructions were studied and we were inspired,in hopes we could manage"Some Assembly Required."

The children were quiet (not asleep) in their beds,while Dad and I faced the evening with dread:a kitchen, two bikes, Barbie's townhouse to boot!And now, thanks to Grandpa, a train with a toot!

We opened the boxes,my heart skipped a beat--let no parts be missing or parts incomplete!

Too late for last-minute returns or replacement;if we can't get it right, it goes straight to the basement!

When what to my worrying eyes should appear but 50 sheets of directions, concise, but not clear; With each part numbered and every slot named,so if we failed, only we could be blamed.

More rapid than eagles the parts then fell out,all over the carpet they were scattered about.

"Now bolt it! Now twist it! Attach it right there!Slide on the seats, and staple the stair!Hammer the shelves, and nail to the stand.""Honey," said hubby, "you just glued my hand."

And then in a twinkling, I knew for a fact that all the toy dealers had indeed made a pact to keep parents busy all Christmas Eve nightwith "assembly required" till morning's first light.

We spoke not a word, but kept bent at our work,'til our eyes, they went blurry; our fingers all hurt.The coffee went cold; and the night, it wore thin before we attached the last rod and last pin.

Then laying the tools away in the chest,we fell into bed for a well-deserved rest.But I said to my husband just before I passed out,"This will be the best Christmas, without any doubt.

"Tomorrow we'll cheer, let the holiday ring,and not run to the store for one single thing!We did it! We did it! The toys are all set for the perfect, most magical Christmas, I bet!"

Then off to dreamland and sweet reposeI gratefully went, though I suppose there's something to say for those self-deluded-I'd forgotten that BATTERIES are never included!

Like a Virgin

Judges 11:37, "...Let me wander two months through the mountains with my friends and mourn my virginity."

This is the story of the Judge, Jephthah. Jephthat is getting ready to go to battle against the Ammonites, and he makes this vow with the Lord, "...whatever comes out of my house to greet me when I return in piece...will belong to the Lord, and I will offer it as a burnt offering."

Upon Jephthah's return from battle, the first thing out of his house is his daughter. He must hold to his vow so, in despair, he explains the vow, and what must happen, to his daughter. Judges 11:37 is her final request.

Upon reading this passage I was first struck by the fact that Jephthah would have to kill/sacrifice his own daughter, why would God allow that? But, as I studied the passage I became even more intrigued by this passage (Judges 11:37), and the importance of being a virgin in the Old Testament times.

Throughout the O.T. we see many examples of the importance of virginity. We read the story of Tamar being raped by Amnon (her half-brother). After the rape Amnon sends her away. Tamar is more upset by this than anything else. You see it would have been better for her to marry a wicked person like Amnon than to go through life, disgraced, as an unmarried woman who had lost her virginity.

Even in the face of death,the thing Jephthah's daughter was most concerned with was her virginity. In the Israelite culture women "regarded the preservation of virginity until marriage as central to her identity."

As I studied the part of the passage where Jephthah must sacrifice his daughter I found that sacrifice does not mean iminent death. A person could be redeemed with money, or be given to the sanctuary in service to the Lord. Jephthah's daughter would have to remain a virgin for life. She would never be able to be given to a man in marriage.

This was worse than death. To be an unmarried non-virgin, or to never be able to be given in marriage as a virgin.

We've come a long way, today. Now it seems just the opposite, the lack of virginity is central to peoples identity. It's unusual to finish your high school years as a virgin. Most people in our culture form their identity by their sexual habits. How many times? How many people? What kind of situation? etc.,etc.

What a far, far cry from our generation and culture today.

Attitude of Gratitude

John Maxwell spoke on the subject of having an "Attitude of Gratitude" (goChristFellowship.com). He used the story, from Luke, of the ten lepers. Jesus healed ten, yet only one returned to express his gratitude.

None of use would be where we are today, if it were not for somebody else (in some way). However, we rarely forget or simply neglect to express gratitude for the people who got us here.

There are so many people in my life that were influential in my personal developement, and helping me achieve goals, and molding me into the person I am today, and still becoming. I would like to take a minute to express that gratitude here.

Obviously, I am thankful to my parents. Without whom no others could be thanked. Most of all, I am thankful for the Christian heritage, and values that they have instilled into my life. Without this strong Godly foundation, I shudder to think of where my life may have gone. So, thanks Mom and Dad!

I also want to thank my friend, Jarm Turner (whom I have worked with in ministry). The education I received from him, in regards to ministry, and the heart of a minister, is more valuable than any amount of money or years of formal education. He placed me in positions, and gave me responsibilities that stretched me. Without these opportunities my growth would have been stunted. My 4 years of serving under his ministry are years that I consider to be most valuable of my life and ministry. The principles I've learned from watching him minister will remain with me forever. His pastors heart is one that I strive to emulate. He is still a friend today, a person whom I feel confident in receiving advice from. Thanks, Jarm!

See also, the post, Granny's Faith (Nov. 10, 2008).

There are many others in my life who are deserving of my gratitude. Gratitude that they will receive in due time.

Who in your life is deserving of gratitude? To whom do you need to express thanks?

Happy Thanksgiving!

This article is taken from Relevant Magazine.

Thanksgiving For Real

Thanksgiving is upon us once again. The time of year when we get together with family and friends, eat ourselves into a mild coma and fall asleep on the couch watching plasticine announcers make asinine comments about enormous cartoon-character balloons, or look on in horror as John Madden greedily devours this year’s turducken. Without a doubt, it is the pinnacle of the American experience. Certainly, though, the time-honored holiday has to signify more than an excuse to gorge ourselves on pies and various starches. After the hectic madness of each year, and before the brutal onslaught of the Christmas rush, Thanksgiving at least offers us the opportunity to sit back and consider the things in our lives for which we have to be grateful.

But thankfulness isn’t easy for a lot of us these days. With the economy spiraling out of control, many people are more worried about their jobs and houses than finding the perfect place-setting for their family gathering. Some of us have had a downright horrible year. Thankfulness can be a very difficult attitude when we’ve faced a lot of life’s trials. Health issues, relationship troubles, family dramas—all of these things can make it hard to put ourselves in a very thankful mood, and Thanksgiving day becomes nothing more than another salute to gastronomical excess. The very moniker of the holiday is ignored.

Sometimes, in the midst of a complicated world, we can be tempted to cast a wistful eye to the origins of the holiday. Modern society seems so much more complicated than the idyllic days of the first Thanksgiving. The celebrants of the first Thanksgiving had none of the woes forced upon us by industrialization and the information age. Their woes were, of course, far worse. Though there is dispute about where the first Thanksgiving was celebrated (most scholars say it was St. Augustine, Fla., in 1565 rather than Plymouth, Mass., in 1621) one thing is certain: Disease, hunger and a grueling physical environment were all realities in the days of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. They gave thanks in the midst of circumstances it is hard for us to imagine in modern day America. Fully half of the settlers in Plymouth died the first winter. Governor William Bradford’s young wife died before the ship even landed, by falling overboard. We give thanks because we got our turkey on special at Safeway, and Uncle Carl miraculously didn’t embarrass us this year. They gave thanks for not dying in the previous calendar year. Pretty heavy stuff.

It puts a lot of things in perspective to think of those few, first brave pioneers from Europe. While their motives and methods of colonizing North America are often questionable in the light of history, their courage and fortitude are not. Certainly, they knew hardships few of us could comprehend. Yet, in the midst of it all, they set aside time to honor and thank God for His provision.

It is hard to give thanks to God when we don’t see His goodness. Sometimes the providence of the Almighty seems much more an abstract concept than a reality. Yet, thankfulness should be a part of the very fabric of our beings, in spite of circumstance. The apostle Paul was an absolute model of this attitude. Few people had the laundry list of grievances that Paul did: shipwrecked, stoned, beaten, imprisoned. Yet his attitude throughout his writings is one of constant thanksgiving, even while in chains. He tells the church at Thessalonica:

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Thankfulness in all circumstances is not intended to massage God’s ego. Rather, thankfulness is an attitude that ultimately benefits us. When we give thanks to God in the midst of hardships, we are reminded of certain incontrovertible truths: God is good, God is gracious and God has our best interests at heart. By keeping these truths in mind, our faith becomes stronger. We begin to have the resolve to trust God, and the outgrowth of that is a new sense of peace when trouble arrives. Moreover, it’s a tremendous example to the rest of the world. To give thanks and praise to God when things are going tremendously well in our lives doesn’t prove a lot to people outside the community of faith. But to show that same thankfulness when our world is falling apart, that’s an attitude that speaks multiplied volumes.

Thanksgiving should not be limited to one day a year, but let’s start there. Let’s resolve to spend this holiday in a true condition of thankfulness. Perhaps this year hasn’t lived up to your expectations. Perhaps it’s been your worst year. Maybe Thanksgiving is actually going to be a tremendously lonely time for you. In spite of all this, give thanks. Thank God for the fact that He gave you life, and that He intends to give it to you more abundantly. That may not always resemble what we have in mind, but it will always be what’s best.

Author: Fred Burrows

Divine Work (part 3)

I used to think that people worked to retire. I used to think that work was a horrible thing, a consequence of sin. However, I was wrong. Now, I look forward to opportunities to work. I enjoy being able to work.

God created us to create. Work is in the first chapter of the first book of the Bible (long before Adam and Eve sinned). The Bible says, in Genesis that God worked and saw that it was good, as people created in His image work is good for us too. "God has given us the priveleges of being his creative steward" (Dr. Del Tackett).

There are 7 ecenomic principles related to work:

1.) All things belong to God.

2.) God appointed man to be a creative steward of His goods with ownership rights.

-we are called to manage God's goods.
-as Christians we should be the best, most creative, most desired employee/er. We should be a joy to work with, however, this is often times just the opposite.

3.) Theft and coveting of another's goods is wrong.

4.) Skills and abilities to work come from God.

5.) Work is profitable, good, and to be pursued; laziness is not.

6.) Love God, not your goods.

7.) Be compassionate and generous with your goods to those in need.


We never really read about retirement in the Bible. We never get the idea that we work to quit working. If we are doing something that is characteristic of Christ, that brings glory to God, that enables us to better serve others, why would we want to quit?

If our culture had a Biblical view of work, retirements would not be necessary. As people become elderly there would always be some kind of work for them. However, our culture is too profit, production, efficiency driven.

Divine Work (pt. 2)

I have been involvled with a Focus on the Family Bible Study known as, "The Truth Project". The last lesson we studied was on the topic of Labor/work. It is very interesting, it brought to light a lot of things I had never known, or considered. The main point was that work is a gift from, and created by, God (not a negative "curse").

Below is an article (on labor) from the "Truth Project" leader, Dr. Del Tackett. I encourage your responses. My personal reflections will soon follow this post.

At the end is a brief video preveiw of the "Truth Project".

Why is Labor a Social Sphere?

Download a printer-friendly PDF of this page.

In all my years of teaching, it was not until recently that I was asked this question. It may have something to do with the climate of our culture where work is increasingly viewed as a necessary evil. If that is the attitude, then how could one view it as being instituted by God? I will attempt to answer that question here.

First, we must ask ourselves "what constitutes a social system?" If we are going to argue one way or the other, that is, the sphere of work is or is not a valid social system designed by God, then we better have clear in our mind what a social system is. Only then will be able to determine if "labor" meets that criteria. When my friend was arguing that labor was not a valid social institution, I asked him to give me his criteria for what constituted a valid social institution. His halting response made it clear that he really hadn't given it much thought. That's not a personal criticism. I've yet to meet anyone who has given this much thought.

However, we must walk carefully here because the truth of the matter is, we have no biblical text that directly answers this question. Indirectly, yes, but directly, no.
So, with that caveat, let me give you my criteria and why.

First, and most obviously, it must fit the category of a social system. And what is a social system? Well, since it is "social" we will say that it includes people, and since it is a "system", we will say that the members are in some ordered relationship for a greater purpose. Second, we must have clear evidence that God created and instituted this system and it therefore has a divine purpose. Third, we must find the Scripture defining the roles and responsibilities within the system. If these are met, then we will assume we have found a valid biblical social institution that God has created and He is concerned enough about it to give is clear, objective directions as to how that social system should work.

Given that, let's test it.

Has God created anything like this? Well, yes, the family comes to mind. Does it meet our criteria? I believe so. Let's look at it.

The creation and institution of the family happens early. In Genesis, we find God's command that a man should leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife and the two were to become one flesh. Jesus restates this in Matthew 19:5-6 and states that God had brought them together, so therefore no man should separate them. Does the Scripture lay forth any directions for the roles and relationships within this system? Sure, not only in the Old Testament, but we find directions given to the husband, the wife and children in several of the New Testament epistles: Ephesians 5, Colossians 3, Titus 2, 1 Peter 3, for example. Is there a clear purpose? Yes, several. Malachi 2:15 says that God created it because He wanted godly offspring.

We could do the same thing with the other social spheres, showing the structure, the roles, and the member responsibilities within each system. But our task is to examine the sphere of labor. Is it a valid sphere?

Well, I think so. First, let's answer the question of my friend, who didn't think that work was a "social" system. Is it? The Scripture lays out clear guidelines for both the employee and the employer, describing their roles and responsibilities, the authority and submission required. It should be of great interest to us that these social requirements are addressed in Ephesians 6 immediately after Paul had been dealing with the roles and responsibilities within the sphere of the church and within the sphere of the family. In Colossians, Paul deals with the social responsibilities of the family in chapter 3 and then immediately deals with the sphere of labor. In Titus 2 Paul deals with the responsibilities that young women have to their husbands, then he immediately deals with the workers responsibility to the employer. In 1 Timothy, Paul does not deal with the family, but he does deal with the sphere of the state (chapter 2), the sphere of the church (chapters 3 and 4) and then the sphere of labor (chapter 6). In Peter's first epistle, he deals with the family in chapter 3, but in chapter 2, where he states that we are to submit to every authority instituted among men, he then lists, in verse 17, our responsibilities to submit to the brotherhood of believers (church), fear God (God & man), honor the king (state) and then in all of verse 18 he addresses the worker's responsibility to his employer (labor).

Even before God had created Eve, He commanded that Adam was to work the garden. In the Ten Commandments, we are told "thou shalt labor six days". The Old Testament is filled with references to our responsibilities in this sphere and the consequences if we do not.
I am not interested in splitting hairs over this, nor am I interested in making this a deep doctrinal issue. But our consistent ignoring of this critical social sphere has resulted in vile movies, vile music, vile art, vile literature and pornography, oppression of workers, cheating on employers, vast poverty, and on and on, not to mention the terrible witness that modern Christians are in the workforce, both as the employer and the employee.

Let's change it.

New Booklet!

I just finished publishing a booklet titled, "Christian Scents". It is available for sale ($5.97 print, $1.99 download) from Lulu.com (click on 'store' in links to the right), or if you contact me I will send you a free copy.

You can contact me by filling out the form to the right or at 'experienceshift@gmail.com'.

Would love to get feedback/reviews.

Thanks.

Granny's Faith

I had lunch with my grandpa yesterday. The conversation turned to Christianity, and his mom (my great grandma). Great grandma died when I was around 12 years old, but the mark she left on my life will live on forever.

Granny was the closest person to God that I have ever known (even after 25 years of being in "the church"). She would tell stories of visions that God had given her, and she would tell stories of witnessing God's presence in various church meetings. She would tell of campmeetings in which people would be laid out all over the church (without tongues or touching) under the power of God and the Holy Spirit. She told of evangelist Billy Sunday walking up to the platform to preach, and people passing out as he passed them, because he was so covered with the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

What an awesome experience! I wonder what has happened in the 3 generations since this time? Why don't we experience this power today?

This is what I long for. To be close to God. To be completely surrounded by, and living in the midst of the presence of God.

Why don't we have this? Maybe we don't want it bad enough. Maybe we're happy with just a little bit of God. Maybe we aren't willing to put in the time and effort to build a relationship of this magnitude with God.

This is my hearts desire...to continually dwell in the complete presence of God and the power of the Holy Spirit.

ALL things

Romans 8:28 -

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. "

Growing up in the church, certain scriptures and advice are heard so much that they become somewhat of a cliche...until you need to apply them.

Through out the course of our lives situations will occur. Situations that cause us to ask questions like, why did this happen? how could this happen to me? what should I do? what is the Christian response?

In my not too distant past I had one of these situations. It was a big deal. A lot of questions and wondering, and instability. Eventually, through Christ, the situation worked out, was resolved, and life was good!

I have a close friend who is going through the same situation that I had gone through. Through my experience I was able to share what God had done in my life through this situation.

God truly does work all things out according to His will. God loves to receive our praise, adoration, and reliance. This is one way that He works things out, and creates opportunities for us to give Him this praise and adoration that He longs for from His people!

What experiences have you gone through? How did God bring you through? In what ways can you help others through the choices, situations, experiences that you have encountered?

A Christian's Perspective

In these political times, let us, as Christians, not for get this command...

Romans 13:1-14
1 Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. 3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. 5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.

Election Day Statistics

Just in case you didn’t make it to the polling place to cast your ballot, don’t get too anxious--there’s a good chance your one vote won’t be the one that decides the election. Unless you live in New Mexico.According to a statistical study reported by AP on Nov. 2, the odds of voting for president and having your ballot be the deciding one cast are 60 million to 1.

In some states, the odds of being the vote that tips the election to your candidate are much better. In others they are astronomically worse. In fact, you are far more likely to be hit by lightning. Twice.For some people, though, the odds approach fathomable numbers. Residents of swing states have the best odds of swinging the election, based not on the size of the state but the likelihood the race will be close and their state will make the difference in the Electoral College.

In New Mexico, the odds are 1 in 6.1 million of a voter casting the ultimate deciding vote. “If you’re in New Mexico, you have a better chance of having your vote matter than winning the New York Lottery,” said study co-author Aaron Edlin, a professor of economics and law at the University of California, Berkeley.

In Virginia, the odds are 1 in 7.9 million. New Hampshire residents have 1 in 8 million chance of being the key vote. In Colorado, the odds are 1 in 9.9 million. In those states, voters are more likely to decide the election than to die by dog bite this year.For everyone else after those four states, fat chance.

The next lowest odds--for Nevada--are 1 in 28.2 million. Thirty-four states have odds greater than 1 in 100 million; 20 states have odds worse than 1 in 1 billion. Alabama’s odds are 1 in 12.2 billion. Oklahoma’s odds are 1 in 20.5 billion. But the nation’s capital has it the worst. The odds of a District of Columbia resident casting the vote that decides the election are 1 in 490 billion.

That’s essentially zero, but one of the study’s authors notes: “We never like to say zero in statistics.”

Message:Compromised

I saw this headline on my Facebook, about this guy getting arrested for preaching.

Watch the video... Tell me what the "Christian" thing was to do.... All he had to do was follow the proper procedure for a permit, and no problem...but he refuses?

Is this the best way to show Christian love?





By not being properly informed and prepared, this man compromised the message of Jesus Christ. If he would have jumped through the proper hoops, he could have freely shared Jesus Christ. Instead, he shared with no one and was unnecessarily arrested.

You can read his story on luketentwo.wordpress.com

An American Creed

An American Creed
I Do Not Choose to Be a Common ManIt is my right to be uncommon—if I can.I seek opportunity—not security. I do not wish to be a kept citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me.I want to take the calculated risk; to dream and to build, to fail and to succeed.I refuse to barter incentive for a dole. I prefer the challenges of life to the guaranteed existence; the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of utopia.I will not trade freedom for beneficence nor my dignity for a handout. I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid; to think and act for myself, enjoy the benefit of my creations and to face the world boldly and say, “This I have done.”

By Dean Alfange

*Originally published in This Week Magazine.Later printed in The Reader’s Digest, October 1952 and January 1954.The Honorable Dean Alfange was an American statesman born December 2, 1899, in Constantinople (now Istanbul). He was raised in upstate New York. He served in the U.S. Army during World War I and attended Hamilton College, graduating in the class of 1922.

Bailout Response What it takes for us all to overcome the crazy economy.