Sunday, November 4, 2012
Election Alert: It's not just about Obama and Romney
As I was waiting in the early voting line today, over hearing people go back and forth about the downsides of President Obama and Mitt Romney, and how if the other is elected we're doomed. I couldn't help but laugh internally to the blindness of my fellow Americans, let's take a quick look..."If you want to give it all you've got," Jesus replied, "go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me." That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crest-fallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn't bear to let go. As he watched him go, Jesus told his disciples, "Do you have any idea how difficult it is for the rich to enter God's kingdom? Let me tell you, it's easier to gallop a camel through a needle's eye than for the rich to enter God's kingdom." (Matthew 19:21-23 MSG). The Facts are, Profit Ratios,
"Citigroup jumped 5.5 percent to $36.66 today. Chief Executive Officer Vikram Pandit, 55, is cutting jobs and shedding unwanted assets, including a 49 percent stake in Smith Barney, as he seeks to return capital to shareholders and comply with new regulations on buffers against losses. Revenue from fixed-income trading surged 63 percent excluding accounting adjustments after tumbling last year during the European sovereign-debt crisis."
(10/15 Bloomberg).
"JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM), the biggest U.S. bank by assets, reported record third-quarter profit that beat analysts’ estimates as mortgage revenue soared 72 percent.
Net income rose 34 percent to $5.71 billion, or $1.40 a share, from $4.26 billion, or $1.02, a year earlier, the New York-based company said today in a statement. Earnings, which included a loss on accounting adjustments, beat the average estimate of $1.20 among 30 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg."
(10/12 Bloomberg).
"Goldman Sachs Earnings Q3 2012: Bank Brings In $1.5 Billion Profit"
(10/12 Huffington Post). Total repayment to American taxpayers to date...
Citigroup $9,098,354,471 (out of $45,000,000,000),
JPMorgan Chase $0 (out of $25,000,000,000),
Goldman Sachs Bank $0 (out of $10,000,000,000)
(11/3 Propublica).
2012 Presidential Elections Contributions to date,
Obama, $632,200,000.00,
Romney, $388,700,000.00
(FEC).
The average median wage in 2011 was $26,965.43
(SSA).
The average Student Loan Debt in 2012 was $26,500.00
(10/18 New York Times).
The facts honestly took about 20 min. to research via Google. The question is not just about Romney or Obama, but are we asking ourselves the right questions? Or is it easier to blame it on what we see? Well, what are we looking at?
The Lord said to him, “Who gave a mouth to man, or who makes a person mute or deaf or seeing or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? (Exodus 4:11 NET)
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Don't Make Doctrine Out of Opinion!
Don't make doctrine out of opinion!
Men of God, do we release the power of our speech in our everyday lives?
"In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches.
But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! " (James 3:5-10 NLT)
Do we release men of God the correalation between speech and lust and how this combination can truly set us up for disaster if we're not careful?
God grants us the ability to "speak decrees" or literally speak things into existence, law. If we as men do not tame any foothold that we have left for Satan to devour, it will devour us!
"Don't let anyone under pressure to give in to evil say, "God is trying to trip me up." God is impervious to evil, and puts evil in no one's way. The temptation to give in to evil comes from us and only us. We have no one to blame but the leering, seducing flare-up of our own lust. Lust gets pregnant, and has a baby: sin! Sin grows up to adulthood, and becomes a real killer." (James 1:13 MSG)
So moving forward, men of God, let's realize the attack that Satan is planning for all of us. If we allow lust, in all forms, to remain in our hearts, Satan will us it against us. The most common way is through our speech, and the things we say to others and ourselves. So let's be aware of our words and the power of them! God bless.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Press or Pressure?
Press or Pressure...
Often times, men of God, it is so easy to feel inadequate when confronted with life's speed bumps. We look at the bills due, then the bank account, we look at our children's grades, then our work schedule, we look at the situations in front of us and determine that "this mountain is too high to climb". Have we ever evaluated our minds & seen the flaws with us? In Acts 14:21 MSG version, "After proclaiming the Message in Derbe and establishing a strong core of disciples, they retraced their steps to Lystra, then Iconium, and then Antioch, putting muscle and sinew in the lives of the disciples, urging them to stick with what they had begun to believe and not quit, making it clear to them that it wouldn't be easy: 'Anyone signing up for the kingdom of God has to go through plenty of hard times." We realize that Paul himself, did not have a life so smooth that he did not have to face any trials or persecutions, but rather upon doing the work of Christ, they grew in occurrences, why do we think this was? Faith! What voice are we listening to when our struggles come, the voice of the deceiver who discourages us into believing that due to our inadequecies "we're not good enough" or the voice of our daddy proclaiming "it's already taken care of!". It's time for us to lead our families, neighborhoods, and friends by first identifying the spiritual, then being confident in our victory.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
10 Creative Ways To Spend More Time With Your Wife
10 Creative Ways To Spend More Time With Your Wife
Many of us date, fall in love, get married, launch our careers, start a family… and then drift apart. Why? The reasons vary, but sometimes it’s all because we stop spending time with our wife – not often enough nor long enough to stay connected and madly in love.
It turns out that two of our best-known clichés: “Familiarity breeds contempt” and “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” are both completely false when it comes to marriage. Together time is a necessary ingredient if we value relationships that last.
However, and like anything else worthwhile, carving out time with your wife is going to require creativity and intention. All Pro Dad thinks your wife is worth the effort. We’ll give you a jump-start on the creativity – the intention you’ll have to provide for yourself.
Talk about it: A declared objective is the first step toward change. Talk about “together time” with your wife. Let her know you want to increase time, then make your plans together.
Measure it: There’s a tried and true principle in psychological measurement that declares the following. Self-assessment has a positive effect on the behavior being appraised. If, for example, you keep track of money spent on soft drinks, the act of measuring will reduce the number of drinks. If – in fitness – you keep track of miles walked, you tend to walk more. If, in a relationship, you measure the amount of time spent with your wife, the time count will necessarily increase – independent of any other intervention.
Exercise together: This is win-win. Both you and your spouse benefit from the exercise and – additionally - the relationship benefits from the time together.
Sign up for a class together: Community college: cooking, art appreciation, and gardening. Then you can carry her books and – later – help her with her homework.
Work your way through a “One Tank Trips” book together: Extra points if you try this one. Most communities offer excursion guides to places within a half-tank of gas from home. It’s a great way to learn about your region while enjoying personal time.
Volunteer together: This is another “two-fer.” Doing good, together with your wife and growing your marriage in the context of service to the community.
Take it in turns to organize a “mystery adventure date”, once a month: The key here – when it’s your turn – is do the research to find out what she enjoys. It could be a weekend tour of local lighthouse, or the night launch of a space shuttle, or a simple picnic on a tablecloth in her favorite state park, or a series of local museums. Use your imagination, make it count, take turns.
Step out together down memory lane: Collate and organize some scrapbooks that document family history – on both sides of the tree. You’ll end up retelling the stories, laughing together, remembering, spending time together, plus you will have a resource that you’ll treasure the rest of your lives.
Interview some elderly relatives: Work up the questions together, record or video the dialog, and take photographs. She’ll love that you’re interested in her family – you’ll be astounded how much cool stuff you’ll learn.
Interview one-another: Help each other come up with a list of questions, and then go through the process. Take notes, listen, learn, and take it from there!
Many of us date, fall in love, get married, launch our careers, start a family… and then drift apart. Why? The reasons vary, but sometimes it’s all because we stop spending time with our wife – not often enough nor long enough to stay connected and madly in love.
It turns out that two of our best-known clichés: “Familiarity breeds contempt” and “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” are both completely false when it comes to marriage. Together time is a necessary ingredient if we value relationships that last.
However, and like anything else worthwhile, carving out time with your wife is going to require creativity and intention. All Pro Dad thinks your wife is worth the effort. We’ll give you a jump-start on the creativity – the intention you’ll have to provide for yourself.
Talk about it: A declared objective is the first step toward change. Talk about “together time” with your wife. Let her know you want to increase time, then make your plans together.
Measure it: There’s a tried and true principle in psychological measurement that declares the following. Self-assessment has a positive effect on the behavior being appraised. If, for example, you keep track of money spent on soft drinks, the act of measuring will reduce the number of drinks. If – in fitness – you keep track of miles walked, you tend to walk more. If, in a relationship, you measure the amount of time spent with your wife, the time count will necessarily increase – independent of any other intervention.
Exercise together: This is win-win. Both you and your spouse benefit from the exercise and – additionally - the relationship benefits from the time together.
Sign up for a class together: Community college: cooking, art appreciation, and gardening. Then you can carry her books and – later – help her with her homework.
Work your way through a “One Tank Trips” book together: Extra points if you try this one. Most communities offer excursion guides to places within a half-tank of gas from home. It’s a great way to learn about your region while enjoying personal time.
Volunteer together: This is another “two-fer.” Doing good, together with your wife and growing your marriage in the context of service to the community.
Take it in turns to organize a “mystery adventure date”, once a month: The key here – when it’s your turn – is do the research to find out what she enjoys. It could be a weekend tour of local lighthouse, or the night launch of a space shuttle, or a simple picnic on a tablecloth in her favorite state park, or a series of local museums. Use your imagination, make it count, take turns.
Step out together down memory lane: Collate and organize some scrapbooks that document family history – on both sides of the tree. You’ll end up retelling the stories, laughing together, remembering, spending time together, plus you will have a resource that you’ll treasure the rest of your lives.
Interview some elderly relatives: Work up the questions together, record or video the dialog, and take photographs. She’ll love that you’re interested in her family – you’ll be astounded how much cool stuff you’ll learn.
Interview one-another: Help each other come up with a list of questions, and then go through the process. Take notes, listen, learn, and take it from there!
Monday, February 20, 2012
Life Verses
2 Corinthians 5:17 — Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old has gone, the new is here!
Psalm 46:10 — Be still and know that I am God.
Philippians 1:6 — Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:5 — Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
1 Corinthians 13:6-7 — Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Jeremiah 29:13 — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Luke 12: 22-24 — Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat' or about your body, what you will wear. For life more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!"
Galatians 6:2 — Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Hebrews 12:1 — Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race market out for us
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.
James 1:2-4 — Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Psalm 61:2 — From the ends o the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Philippians 1:21 — For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Colossians 3:23-24 — Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
2 Corinthians 5:17 — Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!
James 1:12 — Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
1 Corinthians 10:13 — No temptation has seized you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Proverbs 29:23 — Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.
Joshua 1:9 — Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
Hebrews 12:7 — Endure hardships as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
Psalm 46:10 — Be still and know that I am God.
Philippians 1:6 — Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:5 — Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
1 Corinthians 13:6-7 — Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Jeremiah 29:13 — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Luke 12: 22-24 — Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat' or about your body, what you will wear. For life more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!"
Galatians 6:2 — Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Hebrews 12:1 — Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race market out for us
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.
James 1:2-4 — Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Psalm 61:2 — From the ends o the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Philippians 1:21 — For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Colossians 3:23-24 — Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
2 Corinthians 5:17 — Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!
James 1:12 — Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
1 Corinthians 10:13 — No temptation has seized you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Proverbs 29:23 — Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.
Joshua 1:9 — Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
Hebrews 12:7 — Endure hardships as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
Thursday, February 2, 2012
The Lines Are Drawn!
The call to War.
What is going on? We are in a war with the world, the flesh, and the devil (collectively “Evil” or “The Enemy” in this writing)! The stakes are high! The kingdoms of light and darkness are colliding. The battle lines are being drawn – this is the epic battle of Good vs. Evil! This is THE Great War – and you are essential to the cause! You are being called upon to fulfill your destiny to be a “mighty hero.”
This War is invisible, internal, and often unexplainable. But it is real! Of course you feel it! The odds against us seem overwhelming and evil feels relentless. These are very important days – very possibly the last days! But there is great hope because our King is raising up an army of fully devoted followers! The Kingdom forces are led by Jesus Christ, and His armies are advancing. And in spite of what sins have been committed, you are being asked to join Him. It’s what you were made for! It is your destiny!
When Christ returns to earth in visible form, He will return armed for battle – ready to strike down the nations, with his robe dipped in blood and the armies of heaven following him on white horses. (see Rev. 19:11-16) “On his robe and thigh [will be] written this title: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Jesus came last time as suffering servant, a lamb as a sacrifice for our sins. He will return as a military commander – a conqueror and king to execute judgement.
“I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, the one who calls you by name.” (Isa. 45:3)
“I beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.” (Eph. 4:1)
( Band of Brothers)
What is going on? We are in a war with the world, the flesh, and the devil (collectively “Evil” or “The Enemy” in this writing)! The stakes are high! The kingdoms of light and darkness are colliding. The battle lines are being drawn – this is the epic battle of Good vs. Evil! This is THE Great War – and you are essential to the cause! You are being called upon to fulfill your destiny to be a “mighty hero.”
This War is invisible, internal, and often unexplainable. But it is real! Of course you feel it! The odds against us seem overwhelming and evil feels relentless. These are very important days – very possibly the last days! But there is great hope because our King is raising up an army of fully devoted followers! The Kingdom forces are led by Jesus Christ, and His armies are advancing. And in spite of what sins have been committed, you are being asked to join Him. It’s what you were made for! It is your destiny!
When Christ returns to earth in visible form, He will return armed for battle – ready to strike down the nations, with his robe dipped in blood and the armies of heaven following him on white horses. (see Rev. 19:11-16) “On his robe and thigh [will be] written this title: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Jesus came last time as suffering servant, a lamb as a sacrifice for our sins. He will return as a military commander – a conqueror and king to execute judgement.
“I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, the one who calls you by name.” (Isa. 45:3)
“I beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.” (Eph. 4:1)
( Band of Brothers)
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
It’s Tough to Be a Man
Men's Ministries is the mobilization of the men of the church to provide fellowship, training, and opportunities for ministry and outreach.
We are living in very difficult and confusing times. It is hard for men to balance their careers, family and personal lives. I would like to look at five factors that will help enhance and insure successful productive lives.
1.Remember ddisappointments are inescapable. Christ’s love is always there. When life lets us down, Jesus lifts us up. Truth is the source of true peace. True peace does not come as a result of eliminating sorrows and disappointments. It comes as a result of one thing, and that is an intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. He is where anxiety ends and peace begins. John 14:27 (NLT) says, “I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.”
2.Look for the truth in the right place. Many voices shout at us, but one that speaks the truth is calm and soft. Seek the truth in the word of God. Whether you realized it or not, truth is the most important issues in your life. It is more important than what you do for a living, who you are married to, or what you earn. I am convinced that truth is the bottom line of life. You cannot have a real life without truth. John 14:6 (NLT) "Jesus told him I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
3.Obedience expresses our gratitude. Obeying God can be hard, but when we look at the cross and realize Jesus did that for us out of love, our course becomes clear. Our love is a response to God’s love. Likewise, our obedience flows from our gratitude for what he has done for us. 1 John 5:3 (NLT) “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and really, that isn't difficult.”
4.Humility is possible when we know our place with God. We feel humbled knowing that through Christ, we are fully accepted by a perfect, Holy God. To become successful in the Lord is a comforting prospect for those striving to mature in their relationship with him and move his Kingdom forward. Psalm 147:6 (NLT) “The LORD supports the humble, but he brings the wicked down into the dust.”
5.Materialism is modern day Idolatry. Owning the latest electronic breakthrough pales in comparison to building Christ like character. Use temporal things but desire eternal. You cannot be satisfied with any temporal goods, because you were not created for enjoyment of such things but for the purpose and fellowship of the Lord. Matthew 6:19-21(NLT) “Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.”
Remember no weapon that is formed against you will be successful and nothing can prevent you from obtaining all the Lord has for you. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments or if I can be of assistance to you. Together, Moving His Kingdom Forward....
Pastor jeff
We are living in very difficult and confusing times. It is hard for men to balance their careers, family and personal lives. I would like to look at five factors that will help enhance and insure successful productive lives.
1.Remember ddisappointments are inescapable. Christ’s love is always there. When life lets us down, Jesus lifts us up. Truth is the source of true peace. True peace does not come as a result of eliminating sorrows and disappointments. It comes as a result of one thing, and that is an intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. He is where anxiety ends and peace begins. John 14:27 (NLT) says, “I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.”
2.Look for the truth in the right place. Many voices shout at us, but one that speaks the truth is calm and soft. Seek the truth in the word of God. Whether you realized it or not, truth is the most important issues in your life. It is more important than what you do for a living, who you are married to, or what you earn. I am convinced that truth is the bottom line of life. You cannot have a real life without truth. John 14:6 (NLT) "Jesus told him I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
3.Obedience expresses our gratitude. Obeying God can be hard, but when we look at the cross and realize Jesus did that for us out of love, our course becomes clear. Our love is a response to God’s love. Likewise, our obedience flows from our gratitude for what he has done for us. 1 John 5:3 (NLT) “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and really, that isn't difficult.”
4.Humility is possible when we know our place with God. We feel humbled knowing that through Christ, we are fully accepted by a perfect, Holy God. To become successful in the Lord is a comforting prospect for those striving to mature in their relationship with him and move his Kingdom forward. Psalm 147:6 (NLT) “The LORD supports the humble, but he brings the wicked down into the dust.”
5.Materialism is modern day Idolatry. Owning the latest electronic breakthrough pales in comparison to building Christ like character. Use temporal things but desire eternal. You cannot be satisfied with any temporal goods, because you were not created for enjoyment of such things but for the purpose and fellowship of the Lord. Matthew 6:19-21(NLT) “Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.”
Remember no weapon that is formed against you will be successful and nothing can prevent you from obtaining all the Lord has for you. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments or if I can be of assistance to you. Together, Moving His Kingdom Forward....
Pastor jeff
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Don't Quit
January 19, 2011
Take One More Step
"We get knocked down, but we get up again." - 2 Corinthians 4:9 TLB
Failure can feel like a punch in the gut. And when it keeps happening it's tempting just to give up. But you can't; you must 'get up again.' Failing doesn't make you a failure, quitting does. H.E. Jensen said, 'The man who wins may have been counted out several times, but he didn't hear the referee.' A failure-free life feels safe, but it fosters boredom, apathy and low self-esteem. Ever noticed that the devil never reminds you of what you've learned? No, he wants you to keep reliving the painful details. Learn the lesson, then forget the details! Victory requires building on what you've learned and moving on. Theologian Brooke Foss Westcott said, 'Great occasions don't make heroes or cowards, they simply unveil them... Silently, as we wake or sleep, we grow strong or weak, and at last some crisis shows us what we have become.' This article ran in The Wall Street Journal: 'You've failed many times although you may not remember. You fell the first time you tried to walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to swim. Did you hit the ball the first time you swung the bat? Heavy hitters, the ones who hit the most home runs, also strike out a lot. R.H. Macy failed seven times before his store in New York caught on. English novelist John Creasey got 753 rejection slips before publishing 564 books.' H. Jackson Brown gives us two rules for winning: Rule One: Take one more step. Rule Two: When you can't take one more step, refer to rule number one.
At Whit's End:
As Christians, we need to remember that it may seem as though we are at the end of our rope, but not the end of our hope! Our perishable bodies are subject to sin and suffering, but God never abandons us. Because Jesus has won the victory over death, we have eternal life. All our risks, humiliations, and trials are opportunities for Christ to demonstrate His power and presence in and through us. Pushing forward, step-by-step, is much easier with God on our side. Come on, you can do it...Jesus will help!
--Whit
Take One More Step
"We get knocked down, but we get up again." - 2 Corinthians 4:9 TLB
Failure can feel like a punch in the gut. And when it keeps happening it's tempting just to give up. But you can't; you must 'get up again.' Failing doesn't make you a failure, quitting does. H.E. Jensen said, 'The man who wins may have been counted out several times, but he didn't hear the referee.' A failure-free life feels safe, but it fosters boredom, apathy and low self-esteem. Ever noticed that the devil never reminds you of what you've learned? No, he wants you to keep reliving the painful details. Learn the lesson, then forget the details! Victory requires building on what you've learned and moving on. Theologian Brooke Foss Westcott said, 'Great occasions don't make heroes or cowards, they simply unveil them... Silently, as we wake or sleep, we grow strong or weak, and at last some crisis shows us what we have become.' This article ran in The Wall Street Journal: 'You've failed many times although you may not remember. You fell the first time you tried to walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to swim. Did you hit the ball the first time you swung the bat? Heavy hitters, the ones who hit the most home runs, also strike out a lot. R.H. Macy failed seven times before his store in New York caught on. English novelist John Creasey got 753 rejection slips before publishing 564 books.' H. Jackson Brown gives us two rules for winning: Rule One: Take one more step. Rule Two: When you can't take one more step, refer to rule number one.
At Whit's End:
As Christians, we need to remember that it may seem as though we are at the end of our rope, but not the end of our hope! Our perishable bodies are subject to sin and suffering, but God never abandons us. Because Jesus has won the victory over death, we have eternal life. All our risks, humiliations, and trials are opportunities for Christ to demonstrate His power and presence in and through us. Pushing forward, step-by-step, is much easier with God on our side. Come on, you can do it...Jesus will help!
--Whit
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Faith
Only faith in the redemptive work of Jesus can bring us into right relationship with God; not even a profusion of good works can do that. (Ephesians 2:8-9) But “works” do have an important role – they are the steady companion of faith.
As Christ’s followers, we’re called to be His ambassadors: We are to testify that God has reconciled the world to Himself through His Son, who lived, died, and lives again! (2 Corinthians 5:14- 20) Our personal responsibility is to reveal who God is by the way we live and the choices we make. God – honoring acts done in His way and timing are evidence that our convictions are genuine.
Faith without works is simply “dead” (James 2:17), but real faith is living and consistently expressed through action. When we let ourselves be instruments in God’s hands, He blesses the undeserving, strengthens the discouraged, provides for the needy, and offers saving grace to those in spiritual darkness. He rewards us richly when faith leads to obedient acts – we will not only see Him working; we will also grow closer to Him. Scripture says that our faith – filled actions will also put to shame those who are antagonistic toward Christ. (Titus 2:7-8) What a powerful combination – faith and works!
The depth of our faith is revealed through our conduct – not just in deeds that others observe, but also in actions we take when no one sees. (Matthew 6:1) God expects believers to be imitators of Jesus, pouring themselves into the lives of others whenever the Father asks.
Question: How do you keep focused on works without allowing your deeds to become the basis of your salvation (which comes from God alone)?
About this Author: Charles Stanley
As Christ’s followers, we’re called to be His ambassadors: We are to testify that God has reconciled the world to Himself through His Son, who lived, died, and lives again! (2 Corinthians 5:14- 20) Our personal responsibility is to reveal who God is by the way we live and the choices we make. God – honoring acts done in His way and timing are evidence that our convictions are genuine.
Faith without works is simply “dead” (James 2:17), but real faith is living and consistently expressed through action. When we let ourselves be instruments in God’s hands, He blesses the undeserving, strengthens the discouraged, provides for the needy, and offers saving grace to those in spiritual darkness. He rewards us richly when faith leads to obedient acts – we will not only see Him working; we will also grow closer to Him. Scripture says that our faith – filled actions will also put to shame those who are antagonistic toward Christ. (Titus 2:7-8) What a powerful combination – faith and works!
The depth of our faith is revealed through our conduct – not just in deeds that others observe, but also in actions we take when no one sees. (Matthew 6:1) God expects believers to be imitators of Jesus, pouring themselves into the lives of others whenever the Father asks.
Question: How do you keep focused on works without allowing your deeds to become the basis of your salvation (which comes from God alone)?
About this Author: Charles Stanley
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
hope
Hope
"My strength has perished, and so has my hope from the LORD." (Lam 3:18)
___________
When sorrow and trouble drain us of strength, when we have nothing left in
ourselves- the Lord understands. Did Jeremiah lack faith because he cried out?
"Remember my affliction and my wandering, the wormwood and bitterness. Surely my
soul remembers and is bowed down within me." (Lam 3:19-20) Crying out to God is
not a lack of faith. He knows where we go and where we are at and the bitterness
in this world. He cares for you.
"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD'S lovingkindnesses
indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail." (Lam 3:21-22) Our faith is
little... mine is anyway, small like a mustard seed and I cause myself much
trouble.
But it's about the Lord's mercy, compassion, and kindness. "They are new every
morning; Great is Your faithfulness." (Lam 3: 23) Though all else is taken away,
you have this unshakable: "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I
have hope in Him." (Lam 3:24) Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, when encouragement seems far away, and our soul is bent and
humbled, help us remember: What we have is You.
Thank-You for true hope in the midst of our own weakness- hope that depends on
You. Your lovingkindness and mercy never comes to an end. Help us wait upon You-
for Your hand of mercy that never fails. Amen.
Today's very great and precious promise
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. It is
good that he waits silently for the salvation of the LORD. (Lam 3:25-26)
We have God's Word on it.
"My strength has perished, and so has my hope from the LORD." (Lam 3:18)
___________
When sorrow and trouble drain us of strength, when we have nothing left in
ourselves- the Lord understands. Did Jeremiah lack faith because he cried out?
"Remember my affliction and my wandering, the wormwood and bitterness. Surely my
soul remembers and is bowed down within me." (Lam 3:19-20) Crying out to God is
not a lack of faith. He knows where we go and where we are at and the bitterness
in this world. He cares for you.
"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD'S lovingkindnesses
indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail." (Lam 3:21-22) Our faith is
little... mine is anyway, small like a mustard seed and I cause myself much
trouble.
But it's about the Lord's mercy, compassion, and kindness. "They are new every
morning; Great is Your faithfulness." (Lam 3: 23) Though all else is taken away,
you have this unshakable: "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I
have hope in Him." (Lam 3:24) Let's pray.
Heavenly Father, when encouragement seems far away, and our soul is bent and
humbled, help us remember: What we have is You.
Thank-You for true hope in the midst of our own weakness- hope that depends on
You. Your lovingkindness and mercy never comes to an end. Help us wait upon You-
for Your hand of mercy that never fails. Amen.
Today's very great and precious promise
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. It is
good that he waits silently for the salvation of the LORD. (Lam 3:25-26)
We have God's Word on it.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Bad Alliances
“Woe to the obstinate children,” declares the Lord, “to those who carry out plans that are not Mine, forming an alliance, but not by My Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting Me; who look for help to Pharaoh’s protection, to Egypt’s shade for refuge.” Isaiah 30:1-2
Have you ever entered a business relationship with someone you knew you were not supposed to? Throughout the history of Israel, the people were called to come out of an old way of life. Egypt represented that old way; when things got tough, the Israelites reverted to what was comfortable. They always knew they could take a trip to Egypt and find what they lacked. Perhaps this was their reasoning: “If we can’t get it accomplished under the new way, why not go back to the way we used to do it? At least we know we can get it there.”
When God calls us into a walk of faith, we can expect to be tested in this walk. If we enter into alliances that God has not ordained, it will only bring heartache. Such was the case for Israel. “But Pharaoh’s protection will be to your shame, Egypt’s shade will bring you disgrace” (Is. 30:3).
Beware what you perceive as an alliance that may advance your business. It may actually bring you great distress if God has not directed you to align it. Ask yourself what the motive is behind this possible alliance. Make sure that it is not based on fear or a quick fix. Get confirmation that God is leading you to make such an alliance. Then you will not end up in the way of Israel, experiencing shame and disgrace.
Today God is First
“Woe to the obstinate children,” declares the Lord, “to those who carry out plans that are not Mine, forming an alliance, but not by My Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting Me; who look for help to Pharaoh’s protection, to Egypt’s shade for refuge.” Isaiah 30:1-2
Have you ever entered a business relationship with someone you knew you were not supposed to? Throughout the history of Israel, the people were called to come out of an old way of life. Egypt represented that old way; when things got tough, the Israelites reverted to what was comfortable. They always knew they could take a trip to Egypt and find what they lacked. Perhaps this was their reasoning: “If we can’t get it accomplished under the new way, why not go back to the way we used to do it? At least we know we can get it there.”
When God calls us into a walk of faith, we can expect to be tested in this walk. If we enter into alliances that God has not ordained, it will only bring heartache. Such was the case for Israel. “But Pharaoh’s protection will be to your shame, Egypt’s shade will bring you disgrace” (Is. 30:3).
Beware what you perceive as an alliance that may advance your business. It may actually bring you great distress if God has not directed you to align it. Ask yourself what the motive is behind this possible alliance. Make sure that it is not based on fear or a quick fix. Get confirmation that God is leading you to make such an alliance. Then you will not end up in the way of Israel, experiencing shame and disgrace.
Today God is First
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Effective Men
FILLING - God's man is a self-feeder. Consistently studying and applying God's Word independent of the church or small group is essential. To do this, a man must be taught how to study the Bible.(1 Peter 2:1-3; Psalm 1:1-3).
TRAINING - God's man receives regular/weekly biblical instruction (1 Thessalonians 2:13). This can be achieved through a weekly small-group Bible study or large-group study with small-group discussion.
PRACTICING - God's man learns how to apply God's Word to all areas of life. It is essential to allowing room for accountability within the men's ministry for the purpose of consistency and obedience to God's Word (James 1:22-25; Ezekiel 33:30-32).
UNITING - God's man makes it a priority to connect with other men at least two times a month for the purpose of community, accountability, confession, and prayer (Galatians 6:1-3; James 5:16; Hebrews 10:23-24).
SURVIVING - God's man learns to address major life temptations and/or crises according to his need and life-stage. Support and encouragement from the ministry leader and small group is essential (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
REACHING - God's man gets involved in some form of ministry based on his gifts and talents. God has called each of us to pour out to others what He has poured into us (1 Peter 4:10-11; Ephesians 4:11-13)
IMPACTING - God's man invests time and resources into the lives of other men. 2ling (2 Tim. 2:22; Proverbs 27:17; Mark 3:13-14).
SHARING - God's man learns to actively share his faith in order to lead others into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15; Matthew 28:18-20).
TRAINING - God's man receives regular/weekly biblical instruction (1 Thessalonians 2:13). This can be achieved through a weekly small-group Bible study or large-group study with small-group discussion.
PRACTICING - God's man learns how to apply God's Word to all areas of life. It is essential to allowing room for accountability within the men's ministry for the purpose of consistency and obedience to God's Word (James 1:22-25; Ezekiel 33:30-32).
UNITING - God's man makes it a priority to connect with other men at least two times a month for the purpose of community, accountability, confession, and prayer (Galatians 6:1-3; James 5:16; Hebrews 10:23-24).
SURVIVING - God's man learns to address major life temptations and/or crises according to his need and life-stage. Support and encouragement from the ministry leader and small group is essential (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
REACHING - God's man gets involved in some form of ministry based on his gifts and talents. God has called each of us to pour out to others what He has poured into us (1 Peter 4:10-11; Ephesians 4:11-13)
IMPACTING - God's man invests time and resources into the lives of other men. 2ling (2 Tim. 2:22; Proverbs 27:17; Mark 3:13-14).
SHARING - God's man learns to actively share his faith in order to lead others into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15; Matthew 28:18-20).
Fight Club
I would like to encourage the ALM men to attend Fight Club.
Monday June 21st.
F-FAITH
I-INITIATIVE
G-GODLINESS
H-HOLINESS
T-TENACITY
Monday June 21st.
F-FAITH
I-INITIATIVE
G-GODLINESS
H-HOLINESS
T-TENACITY
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The Ingredients of a Lasting Legacy
By Patrick Morley
How will you be remembered? Most likely you will not be remembered by many people, and not for long by most of those who do. For example,
Several times recently I have asked someone, “Does the name Tom Skinner ring a bell?” I’ve been a little startled when they said, “No.” How could the memory of the greatest black evangelist of the twentieth century so quickly pass into obscurity?
Recently I was thinking about several of the great men who built our community—men responsible for our highways, parks, and local universities. Their contributions have long since been forgotten, as well as their names.
A famous Bible teacher died a few years ago. I cannot, for the life of me, remember his name.
I cannot remember the first name of my great grandfather. Can you?
And so it goes.
Given the brevity of personal notoriety, what can we invest in that will leave a lasting legacy? And what should be our realistic expectations?
A Realistic Legacy
Jim is twenty years older than me, yet we have always co-labored in ministry together. My wife and I were honored to be invited, along with about forty other guests, to his 50th wedding anniversary.
Also in attendance were his happy wife, his children who flew in for the occasion, and his pastor who thought enough of him to comment on his life. In his case, no one from his work attended. And he was very happy.
Wouldn’t it be enough to discover that a happy wife, children who still want to be around you, a pastor who would be willing to say something nice about you, and about forty friends were willing to assemble and celebrate your life?
What more can a man really want? It’s a realistic and lasting legacy.
How can you and I achieve such a legacy? Here are a few ideas to consider....
Idea #1: Decide What Is Important and Write It Down
Make a list of what you think is most important, frame it, and hang it where you will see it regularly.
Twenty-five years ago I did just that. I made a list of my ten most important philosophies, values, and beliefs. They hang on a wall in my office in plain view....
What’s Important?
To love God and His Son, Jesus Christ.
To keep family life as our highest priority after God.
To invest in people and relationships.
To think and act with integrity.
To pursue excellence in every undertaking.
To express gratitude whenever possible.
To lead a disciplined, prudent life.
To acquire wisdom in humility and the fear of the Lord.
To trust God completely and not worry about life’s many cares.
To live by setting and working toward realistic goals.
These are the standards by which I have measured my life. These are the particular ways I have articulated my understanding of the Bible.
Since a legacy is what you leave behind, for me a lasting legacy is everyone in my family loving and serving Christ. That’s first and foremost. Second, a lasting legacy is to have invited as many as possible to join us in eternal life.
A distant third might be to have someone stand at my funeral and proclaim, “He did what he said was important. He loved the Lord and his family. He invested his life into people and relationships. His life displayed the integrity, excellence, and gratitude which he prized. He led a disciplined life, pursuing wisdom and humility in faith. And he was a hard worker. And also, he was content, at peace, and joyful.”
What’s on your list? What are the ingredients of your lasting legacy? Try it. Make a list. You can frame and hang it, or you can put it on a piece of paper that you leave in your Bible. The more you look at it, the more impact it will have on your thinking.
Idea #2: Make Memories
Frankly, I do not remember many of the routines of my childhood. Do you? Instead, I remember the special occasions and memorable experiences. I remember crabbing off a bridge with a chicken neck on a string, being the king of my sixth grade class, surf fishing with my family at the beach, and shooting a rabbit that didn’t die right away.
Spend time with your children. Love is spelled T – I – M – E. I dated my children. Every Tuesday night I took one of them out for dinner and an activity. My son liked go carts. My daughter liked the mall. They both loved being with their dad.
My adult son told me, “Dad, I want to have a job like you did because I can never remember you missing a single one of my games, and I want to do that for my kids too.” Kids remember the funniest things, but they all remember that time = love.
Vacations are show stoppers in the memory bank. That’s because they break with routine. They’re special memories. The brain secretes chemicals that burn special experiences into our brains—bad as well as good. Be sure to make vacations different and special.
Another growing up memory of mine was of wanting to know God. As an altar boy, I used to pour over the prayers hoping that I would experience the presence of God. One childhood memory I definitely do not have is that of receiving Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and Lord. How different might life have been if I had responded to the gospel at an early age? Make sure to make the gospel known to your children from their youngest age. That’s the one memory that will most alter their lives.
Ideas #3: Practice Spiritual Disciplines
A legacy doesn’t just happen; it takes diligence, forethought, planning, and execution.
One of the oldest traditions of Christian faith is the practice of spiritual disciplines. The spiritual disciplines are how we keep our lives focused on the ingredients of a lasting legacy.
Spiritual disciplines do nothing to improve your record with God—that’s what Christ did on the Cross. But they do deepen and enrich our spiritual lives. There are many lists of the disciplines, each somewhat different. My top 12 includes creation, the Bible, prayer, worship, the Sabbath, fellowship, counsel, fasting, spiritual warfare, stewardship, service, and evangelism. Almost any Christian virtue or duty can be turned into a discipline.
Spiritual disciplines will help get you where you want to go—to a lasting legacy. Here are four disciplines that are on my “must do” list.
Be part of a disciple-making church. The mission is, “Go and make disciples.” If you are not in a church that’s focused on the mission you’re in the wrong place.
Read the Bible for yourself. The Bible is God speaking to us. You will not grow deeply until you set aside quiet times when, without interruptions and distractions, you can tune your ears to hear the speech of God.
Participate in a men’s small group. Couples groups are good, but there is an unparalleled bond that develops in a men’s small group. In our experience, most meaningful change takes place in the context of small group relationships.
Pray for your wife, and, if possible, with her. Easily the number one issue facing men is that marriages are not working correctly. One of the most powerful solutions is to pray for and with your wife.
Why not give these ideas a try? A list of what’s really important to you reviewed regularly, a plan to make memories with your children, and a commitment to practice spiritual disciplines.
These may not be all of the ingredients of a lasting legacy, but they seem more than adequate to assemble a wife, your children, your pastor, and forty friends.
By Patrick Morley
How will you be remembered? Most likely you will not be remembered by many people, and not for long by most of those who do. For example,
Several times recently I have asked someone, “Does the name Tom Skinner ring a bell?” I’ve been a little startled when they said, “No.” How could the memory of the greatest black evangelist of the twentieth century so quickly pass into obscurity?
Recently I was thinking about several of the great men who built our community—men responsible for our highways, parks, and local universities. Their contributions have long since been forgotten, as well as their names.
A famous Bible teacher died a few years ago. I cannot, for the life of me, remember his name.
I cannot remember the first name of my great grandfather. Can you?
And so it goes.
Given the brevity of personal notoriety, what can we invest in that will leave a lasting legacy? And what should be our realistic expectations?
A Realistic Legacy
Jim is twenty years older than me, yet we have always co-labored in ministry together. My wife and I were honored to be invited, along with about forty other guests, to his 50th wedding anniversary.
Also in attendance were his happy wife, his children who flew in for the occasion, and his pastor who thought enough of him to comment on his life. In his case, no one from his work attended. And he was very happy.
Wouldn’t it be enough to discover that a happy wife, children who still want to be around you, a pastor who would be willing to say something nice about you, and about forty friends were willing to assemble and celebrate your life?
What more can a man really want? It’s a realistic and lasting legacy.
How can you and I achieve such a legacy? Here are a few ideas to consider....
Idea #1: Decide What Is Important and Write It Down
Make a list of what you think is most important, frame it, and hang it where you will see it regularly.
Twenty-five years ago I did just that. I made a list of my ten most important philosophies, values, and beliefs. They hang on a wall in my office in plain view....
What’s Important?
To love God and His Son, Jesus Christ.
To keep family life as our highest priority after God.
To invest in people and relationships.
To think and act with integrity.
To pursue excellence in every undertaking.
To express gratitude whenever possible.
To lead a disciplined, prudent life.
To acquire wisdom in humility and the fear of the Lord.
To trust God completely and not worry about life’s many cares.
To live by setting and working toward realistic goals.
These are the standards by which I have measured my life. These are the particular ways I have articulated my understanding of the Bible.
Since a legacy is what you leave behind, for me a lasting legacy is everyone in my family loving and serving Christ. That’s first and foremost. Second, a lasting legacy is to have invited as many as possible to join us in eternal life.
A distant third might be to have someone stand at my funeral and proclaim, “He did what he said was important. He loved the Lord and his family. He invested his life into people and relationships. His life displayed the integrity, excellence, and gratitude which he prized. He led a disciplined life, pursuing wisdom and humility in faith. And he was a hard worker. And also, he was content, at peace, and joyful.”
What’s on your list? What are the ingredients of your lasting legacy? Try it. Make a list. You can frame and hang it, or you can put it on a piece of paper that you leave in your Bible. The more you look at it, the more impact it will have on your thinking.
Idea #2: Make Memories
Frankly, I do not remember many of the routines of my childhood. Do you? Instead, I remember the special occasions and memorable experiences. I remember crabbing off a bridge with a chicken neck on a string, being the king of my sixth grade class, surf fishing with my family at the beach, and shooting a rabbit that didn’t die right away.
Spend time with your children. Love is spelled T – I – M – E. I dated my children. Every Tuesday night I took one of them out for dinner and an activity. My son liked go carts. My daughter liked the mall. They both loved being with their dad.
My adult son told me, “Dad, I want to have a job like you did because I can never remember you missing a single one of my games, and I want to do that for my kids too.” Kids remember the funniest things, but they all remember that time = love.
Vacations are show stoppers in the memory bank. That’s because they break with routine. They’re special memories. The brain secretes chemicals that burn special experiences into our brains—bad as well as good. Be sure to make vacations different and special.
Another growing up memory of mine was of wanting to know God. As an altar boy, I used to pour over the prayers hoping that I would experience the presence of God. One childhood memory I definitely do not have is that of receiving Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and Lord. How different might life have been if I had responded to the gospel at an early age? Make sure to make the gospel known to your children from their youngest age. That’s the one memory that will most alter their lives.
Ideas #3: Practice Spiritual Disciplines
A legacy doesn’t just happen; it takes diligence, forethought, planning, and execution.
One of the oldest traditions of Christian faith is the practice of spiritual disciplines. The spiritual disciplines are how we keep our lives focused on the ingredients of a lasting legacy.
Spiritual disciplines do nothing to improve your record with God—that’s what Christ did on the Cross. But they do deepen and enrich our spiritual lives. There are many lists of the disciplines, each somewhat different. My top 12 includes creation, the Bible, prayer, worship, the Sabbath, fellowship, counsel, fasting, spiritual warfare, stewardship, service, and evangelism. Almost any Christian virtue or duty can be turned into a discipline.
Spiritual disciplines will help get you where you want to go—to a lasting legacy. Here are four disciplines that are on my “must do” list.
Be part of a disciple-making church. The mission is, “Go and make disciples.” If you are not in a church that’s focused on the mission you’re in the wrong place.
Read the Bible for yourself. The Bible is God speaking to us. You will not grow deeply until you set aside quiet times when, without interruptions and distractions, you can tune your ears to hear the speech of God.
Participate in a men’s small group. Couples groups are good, but there is an unparalleled bond that develops in a men’s small group. In our experience, most meaningful change takes place in the context of small group relationships.
Pray for your wife, and, if possible, with her. Easily the number one issue facing men is that marriages are not working correctly. One of the most powerful solutions is to pray for and with your wife.
Why not give these ideas a try? A list of what’s really important to you reviewed regularly, a plan to make memories with your children, and a commitment to practice spiritual disciplines.
These may not be all of the ingredients of a lasting legacy, but they seem more than adequate to assemble a wife, your children, your pastor, and forty friends.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Get Activated
Old and New Testament images of masculinity
Moses,(one of the best educated men in the Old Testament) combined that education with authentic spirituality to lead the children of Israel.
Paul, one of the best trained men in the New Testament, combined his training with authentic spirituality to reach, first the Jews, and then the gentiles,
They led because of an internal conviction and a deep, abiding concern for people.
We are one weird group. We have moved away from the farm, away from hunting, away from working together, away from the family network. Now we live in cities where work has been redefined and our families are breaking down. The local church needs to become the small town - a cohesive family unit
There are no long-term relationships. People slip from church to church. We move from friendship to friendship. We have different friends at different times or stages in life.
Bill Bright said that every where the gospel has made a measurable societal impact, crime rates are own, teen pregnancy is down, and divorce rates are down. Society is impacted through a successful local church.
Human beings are nurtured through a series of relationships not through information or different ideas or reading a book or attending conferences. It happens only though the family. And where there is no functioning, family it must happen through the church.
Local church is essential in restoring moral values in a society moving in a direction opposed to the will of God. The local church is in the business of transforming people through the Word of God; radical transformation. Men's ministry must be in the business of building strong local churches. The purpose of men's ministry is to grow strong healthy churches.
Notes from a keynote address given by Pastor Ted Haggard (President, National Association of Evangelicals) to the NCMM
Moses,(one of the best educated men in the Old Testament) combined that education with authentic spirituality to lead the children of Israel.
Paul, one of the best trained men in the New Testament, combined his training with authentic spirituality to reach, first the Jews, and then the gentiles,
They led because of an internal conviction and a deep, abiding concern for people.
We are one weird group. We have moved away from the farm, away from hunting, away from working together, away from the family network. Now we live in cities where work has been redefined and our families are breaking down. The local church needs to become the small town - a cohesive family unit
There are no long-term relationships. People slip from church to church. We move from friendship to friendship. We have different friends at different times or stages in life.
Bill Bright said that every where the gospel has made a measurable societal impact, crime rates are own, teen pregnancy is down, and divorce rates are down. Society is impacted through a successful local church.
Human beings are nurtured through a series of relationships not through information or different ideas or reading a book or attending conferences. It happens only though the family. And where there is no functioning, family it must happen through the church.
Local church is essential in restoring moral values in a society moving in a direction opposed to the will of God. The local church is in the business of transforming people through the Word of God; radical transformation. Men's ministry must be in the business of building strong local churches. The purpose of men's ministry is to grow strong healthy churches.
Notes from a keynote address given by Pastor Ted Haggard (President, National Association of Evangelicals) to the NCMM
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
SKEET SHOOT
IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN, TIME TO GO SHOOTING. JOIN ME AND THE REST OF THE GUYS FOR PRACTICE,ALL YOU NEED IS A BOX OF SHOTGUN SHELLS 7 1/2 SHOOT ONE ROUND OR FIVE, YOU WILL NEED A BOX FOR EVERY ROUND; THERE WILL ALSO BE A FIVE DOLLAR CHARGE FOR EACH ROUND.
Monday, February 15, 2010
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness(training,discipline), that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2Timothy 3:16-17
It's time to move forward!!!!
2Timothy 3:16-17
It's time to move forward!!!!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Growing Together!
Men of God I am so excited about the direction we are going in as a ministry. We are going to make sure "no man is left behind!"
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