Lordy Lordy Laurie is 40

Don't forget Laurie is a New Years Baby! Tomorrow is the big four-zero. I remember her as a little 15 year old girl walking the halls at our high school. Its hard to imagine...but when we got married I sent her flowers that said come grow old with me...guess what... we are getting old. She says things like ... nowadays people (blah, blah, blah).

THE PARTY STARTS AT 4 PM....EVERYONE WELCOME!

Sunday Reflections

Good message Justin...I really appreciate your heart. It was especially touching to see you tear up while talking about Anthony. It was good just to be a visitor in the church today.

Don't forget tomorrow we are meeting at my house at 11 am to pass out bread.

January 5, 2009 - Ministry Leaders Meeting
All ministry leaders need to mark their calendars for Monday 01/05/09 at 6:30...
Key Leaders:
Mike Shroades
Justin Swasey
Jason Morris
Amy Lines
Debbie Dubose
Tony Dubose
DeWayne Morris
Jim Mock

My Cell Phone Is Demon Possessed

Hey guys this is to let you know that for the past three weeks my phone has been acting demonic. I have no idea if it is the phone or Unicel. So, if you need me please email me, blog, or call Laurie's phone.

Pray for Justins Mother

Found out we would have to cancel our trip to Tallahassee. Justins mother broke her knee cap so please be praying for her.

Passing Out Bread on Monday

Hey guys Justin and I are going to have lunch with Perry Noble tomorrow so we are going to pass out the bread on Monday...if anyone needs fresh bread or bagels just give me a call and I will tell you how to pick some up. If you no someone that could use the bread and bagels please contact me as well.

Its 3AM Christmas Morning & I Can Not Sleep

For the last 2 hours God has just been pouring it out! Our church better hold on. God has just given me three months of messages. Not only that I feel He has given me very specific direction. If Don is reading this he is laughing because all my God stories involve 3 in the morning...at least that is the way it seems. Its after 3 Christmas morning and I am like stoked!

BY THE WAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

I have been up meditating on Purpose Driven Praise and I am like a preacher on crack. It is unreal how I feel right now. I need you to know what I feel God is speaking to me about the coming year. Its two very simple instructions:

1. Be excellent in my preaching of the word
2. Say what He tells me to say

If I am on track with the messages that God has given me for the next 3 months, then I know why I must do exactly that. These messages will encourage, challenge, edify and even horrify but I know God is all over it! Do you realize how graced we are? Think about it...every area of our lives is covered by the grace of God...what a good Daddy! Anyway I am going to try to go to sleep...love you guys.

Oh Yeah, MERRY CHRISTMAS!

A Chance to Help the Poor!

Someone just blessed me with hundreds of fresh loaves of bread and bagels. I want to deliver them to some areas that I know could use the help. If you would like to help me this Friday please call me or post a comment on this blog. I thought we could pass the bread out from 11 to 1 on Friday the 26th.

Guys, God is getting me refocused on ministering to the poor and hurting again. There is such a need to help people. I am believing God to help us feed the hungry again in our community. I am looking forward to what God is going to do. I hear the voice of the Spirit of God calling me back to the places we once ministered.

Feelin' Fine For 2009

What a crazy year this has been! The year began with all of us making a huge impact on the nation of India. That was so exciting to watch as God miracuously provided for that life long dream. During the course of this year I felt like it was time to turn complete control of Love In Action over to Ken Tuck. Ken has taken the reigns and the ministry is in better condition than I could have ever imagined.
This year has had its challenges, as well. It was a difficult choice to breakaway from Word of Life, but I knew to accomplish what God wanted us to do it was the only way. Even the leadership of Word of Life always talked about those that you are connected too. I still don't understand why the entire board acted with such a lack concern, but there are lessons still to be learned from all that I am sure. You all know how I feel about relationships...putting a 20 year relationship on the line during the WOL battle was really hard on me. Through it all I still love Pastor Hank and all those involved, and I encourage you to do the same.
Now, I am not one of those people that will try to get you all preached up with some sort of prophetic statement as to what the next year might hold. Considering the way things have unfolded this year, my attitude is just give things a chance and pay close attention. The economy might bounce back ...it might get worse. I will say this the nay-sayers are driving me crazy. I am not going out to buy a bunch of ammo...at least not yet!
I voted for President Bush...there are things I love about him and things I don't like about him. But, I don't like the fact that someone can attack our president and all we as Americans can do is laugh about it...the shoeicide bomber needed his head beat in on national television....bad job by his security. I feel the same way about Barack Obama. He is the president we elected and I don't want the world thinking they can just assault our leaders at will, because that may lead many to beleive that they can attack the rest of us as well. Someone throws a shoe at me while I'm traveling they gettin' a West Virginia butt woopin'. Right after I turn the other cheek back around from ducking and weaving. We have to give the pres-elect a chance, and please quit buying into all the online, off-the-wall rumors that get started. Your name does not make you a Muslim. I have heard Barack say he is a Christian...I will say he is a very liberal person who has made claims to be a Christian. I totally disagree with the liberals (especially the gay community) in the way they have attacked Pastor Rick Warren. It is obvious the Rick has a ton of influence in Barack's life...ladies and gentleman leadership is influence. Let's give this a chance. Obama may usher in plagues and infestastions, but God may also use the Christians surrounding him to reverse Roe v. Wade. I know its unlikely but one of the greatest pastors of all time is a great friend to the most powerful man in the free world. Let's hope for the best.
Wow, I guess I had alot to say about that...let's get back to the church for a minute. Last week I took some much needed time off. I have one more week of vacation that I will use during the last week of the year. For those of you who have made comments....I still love ya. But I am taking my vacation time and I suggest you do the same. I have busted my butt this year, and quite frankly I need a little break. Lisa Mock has also worked hard to keep alot of the business element of our church in smooth working order. She is operating the business end of the church from her home. SHE DESERVES A GET AWAY CRUISE IF ANYONE DOES. She has worked hard for our church and we all should be thankful for that. I know that I am. We love you Lisa...yeah wooo, you rock girl...
Anyway, I am feelin' fine for 2009 and when the new year turns you all better be ready to hit the ground running because we are moving forward with serious force. Leaders need to be ready to lead! Volunteers are going to be celebrated because with out them our church is stuck in neutral. God is going to be glorified. Changes have got to take place. Growth in every area is a must! New campus in Florida is rolling out! People are going to get saved, healed, delivered! We are going to give til it hurts! God is going to bless! I beleive those that talk about us are going to come and talk to us! Invite your friends. Make a list. Get your family in church. This is a new year coming and we are turning over a new leaf. You all are about to see me step it up a notch in my leadership. This ain't for wishee washee mambee pambee coom-buya singing religious folks. Get out the way cause Christ-life Church is moving forward. Get out da way cause if you don't you might get run over...we rolling like a locomotive. The train is leaving station.... All aboard! Let's Roll!!!!

Please Stop By For The Holidays

As always our home is open to anyone who would like to stop by for some holiday fellowship. Just call before you come to be sure we will be around. Christmas Eve we usually go to some friends house, but other than that we should be around. Just to let you know Monday we will have coffee, hot chocolate, and some snacks out for our leadership get together...but don't let that stop you from coming to the house...we will gather around 7pm. And people usually come over in the afternoon on Christmas day......like I said just call to make sure we are around. God Bless and Merry Christmas.

Twenty Years But It Finally Happened

Years ago Laurie told me something she never did as a child that I thought was unbelievable. She had never watched The Wizard of Oz! That's what I thought. She keeps picking on me because I know the songs. She didn't even know who the munchkins were.
She never saw the movie because her dad was a pastor. If you remember The Wizard of Oz always came on the Sunday evening movie. She was always in church...and on top of that they probably taught her that the Wizard of Oz was a sign that Jesus was going to return. Anyhow, tonight Laurie and I sat down and watched the Wizard of Oz...finally after 20 years.

Leadership Christmas Party DEC. 22nd

Just wanted all those who have been attending leadership meetings to bring their family to our home for some fellowship and snacks. I will fire up the cappucino machine, make some hot chocolate, and have an array of sugar filled snacks...maybe some veggies. Please bring your family as we will have some little gifts for the kids (elders families will exchange gifts at our usual get together).

I would appreciate if you could confirm if you are coming and who will be coming with you so we are sure to have enough gifts for everyone. Please confirm you attendance by posting info on this blog...

Date: December 22nd
Day: Monday
Time: 7:00 to 9:00

When The Cat's Away The Mice Will Play

In the vastness of my antiquated experiences I have learned that the proclamation of my absence usually derails the attendance of otherwise participatory worshipers. Thus upon admirable pontification I have concluded that I must report all those who.....shall I say...superfluously subjected themselves to the lack of worship.... to Santa Claus. Therefore, those of you who are superior in intellect due to the vastness of the wisdom that flows from me to you by way of osmosis....I must declare you were naughty! Naughty because you unintelliglibly developed the veltagshaung, that is to say, world view, that if the pastor is not there I need not be either. As a result, you have been declared as being naught! A pastoral proverb declares that when the cat is away the mice will play. Oh, you naughty mouse!

Christ-Life Church is Official!

We have successfully changed the name of the church to Christ-Life Church. Sunday was an awesome day for our fellowship. The move of the Spirit was so sweet and many people were ministered to in several areas. The overriding theme in my heart for our church is that we would be a church that cares about people while committing our lives in service to Christ. We will be the Enterprise campus. We are also developing a campus in the New Smyrna Beach area. Who knows in the coming years we may be developing other campuses.

As far as giving financially to the church. We will continue to write checks to The Potter's House til 2009. At that point we will receive a new EIN.

Just so you know...our desire was to grow numerically and financially. We have been averaging 20 to 25 people more per service over the last couple months...God is on the move. Also, since we committed to give 10% of all we receive in tithe and offering has been on a steady increase...PTL!

Please invite your friends and family. Don't give up keep inviting them!

Sorry I have not bloggeed in a few days...my computer was down. Love you guys!!

Good Trip to Jacksonville!

Special thanks to John Darnell for meeting with a portion of our leadership team in an attempt to help us gain a better understanding of multi-site ministry. John and his wife Stacey are long time friends that I have gone years without seeing, and then in the midst of desiring to launch a campus in New Smyrna Beach, Florida they surfaced by God's divine appointment.

It was a joy to see what God has placed into their care. I know they will be instrumental in our attempt to fulfill what God is calling us to do. Today was about four hours of non-stop discussion. But, on the way home we really focused on helping our church to identify its DNA. We also worked on an area of our ministry that we feel will help us gain an advantage to continue with numeric growth.

Thanks to Justin, DeWayne, Todd, and Shane for taking this quick trip with me. The road we started down today will benefit both the Enterprise and New Smyrna Beach campuses. I look forward where todays discussions will lead us. It was a great day!!!

Giving Part 2 ... God's Heart

It goes without saying that God's heart goes out to us. Especially, when He sees us in a sinful, lost, and seperated from Him condition. God gave His absolute best when He gave His only Son on the cross.
Now, since I said that...I'm talking about giving from the perspective of our wealth, substance and resources. So where is God's Heart in all this giving. Later I will blog about your part being the tithe....but today I have learned there is a group of people we can give our money, time and resources to that pronounces God's blessing.
I want to take you back about five to six years ago. Our church was experiencing rapid growth numerically, financially and spiritually. That was the time we were committed to reaching out primarily to the lower income areas of our community. I was embraced by the community and often ridculed by church people. People would come to our church fall in love with the vision until they saw the amount of work involved. Til they really went to a church (like ours) that wasn't talking about reaching homeless, drug addicts, trouble youth, prostitute, other races and the working poor BUT WE WERE DOING IT. We had drunk people on the back pew passing out. Prostitutes coming forward at the conclusion of messages about sexual purity. I will never forget a lady that God "told her" to come to our church. Her and her family came to the church were a blessing, but after a short while God lead her and her family away because we ministered to the poor. I will never forget the day she told me that she was sick of hearing about the poor...that she was poor (she just built a high dollar house in a high dollar community). Where I failed was as I saw people come and go with her attitude I began to back off that vision. WHEN WE STOPPED MINISTERING TO THE POOR OUR RAPID GROWTH SLOWED TREMENDOUSLY.
Let me share a scripture that reveals the heart of God...remember this is just one of many
Psalm 41:1-4 "Blessed are those that consider the poor. For the Lord rescues them in times of trouble. The Lord protects them and keeps them alive. He gives them prosperity and rescues them from their enemies. The Lord nurses them when they are sick and eases their pain and discomfort." I encourage you to read several translations of this verse...all of them bring out many great angles for reflection. The Old Testament is full of judgement upon those who mistreated the poor. Scriptures tells us when we give to the poor that we are lending to God...imagine His interest rate. We are told when we help the homeless, visit the sick, go into prisons with the gospel, feed the hungry, provide refreshing drinks, clothe the necked (southern for naked), and help the least that we are actually doing it to Christ. WOW! Hallelujah...ministering to our Savior!
I have not mentioned this in some time. I was up early this morning praying and I really felt as if the Lord wanted me to blog about this because....are you ready...we need to get back to that type of ministry. Is anyone out there interested?

Giving Part I ... Your Heart!

In a down economy its easy to get depression mentality. To hold on to "things" and not let go. Remember that this world's economy is not God's economy. He owns it all...it all belongs to Him. One of the concerns of ministries all over the world is the lack of charitable giving due to our nations economic crisis. I have some thoughts I want to share in regards to spending, saving, and giving.

1. Avoid being spontaneous. Check for sale prices on items you need to purchase. Be sure to check the newspaper for sales through out the holiday season. Comparitive shop on items that can be purchased online. Ebay is a good place to get items at a cheaper price (just be sure to calculate shipping costs in your budget). To save even more money be sure to check for local sellers online...try to work a deal where you can pick up the item without paying any shipping and handling fees.

2. Get out of debt. One of the wisest things I beleive we can do is get out of debt. Many people are sinking under the flood of inflation, rising costs, rising interest rates and the like. I have noted a few ways to get out debt. Start with your smallest debt and work your way up to the largest. Contact your creditors if your interest rates are rising. In the event you are not making ends meet you may need to contact a credit couseling agency (start with Dave Ramsey). I am often asked about bankruptcy...that should only be used as an absolute last resort. Before considering bankrupcy exhaust all other options. Proverbs tells us the borrower is servant to the lender...Craig Groeshel calls debt bondage!

3. Budget your spending. Laurie and I found ourselves on a very tight budget when gas went over $4 per gallon. I set aside $100 per week and said when thats gone we don't go anywhere. We also set aside $150 per week for groceries. During the summer that wasn't buying many groceries, but we ate what we had and rarely ate at restraunts.

4. Clip coupons. Take the time to check your papaer and print coupon off the internet. Laurie is very good about clipping coupons. She gets all excited to see how much she saved at the bottom of her receipt. Often she will save up to $20 off our grocery bill.

5. Have an emergency savings. Try to build an emergency account of $1000. This could be for unexpected car repairs, house repairs, or you never know when tragedy may strike your family which may force you to travel, or a hurricane may force you away from your home.

6. Start saving. Once you get out of debt open a savings account. Start putting money away for large purchases, college or retirment.

7. Give to Gods Work. This is what I want to talk about in this blog as I beleive giving reveals the condition of your heart.

Charles Stanley said that there are two ways that you can determine a persons love for the Lord. First, check their date book to see how much time they spend with Him. Second, look at their check book to see how much they give to Him. Later this week I will blog about tithing, offerings, blessing others, and caring for the poor.

Today I want to talk about your heart. Scripture tells us where our treasure is that's where our heart will be. The text for today is 2 Corinthians 9:7...
"You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully" (New Living Translation)

I always pray about what I should give before I arrive at any church service. Giving is part of our worship to God so its not something I only think about when the offering is being received. So let me encourage you to pray about any offerings you give to any ministry. Allow the spirit of God to speak to you and guide you in your giving. Anytime you feel compassion going out it is a good sign that God may be leading you.

I also detest gimmic giving. Give because God has laid it on your heart. Never give if you feel pressured. Take time to walk away, get counsel or pray over the request for money. When we are struggling financially its easy to get tricked into giving to greedy "preachers". Let me tell you this if everyone watching a particular television show sends $52.12 it allows them to keep living their lavish lifestyles absorbed with greed and materialism. Because millions of people send money. Don't get me wrong alot of ministries are credible and committed to Christ...I also recognize they don't seem to be so pressure oriented.

But your heart is at the matter of it all. Once you have decided to give...don't stress! God loves a cheerful giver. I have heard some say that this can be translated 'hilarious giver'. To me that means we should give with a smile on our face. I remember a time when I would take the offering that a lady named Helen would applaud and that would spark others to shout amen and so on. It was awesome...people were excited to give. We need to be cheeful givers and that can only spring from a heart that is full of gratitude. Generous givers full of cheer can help a church grow and reach its full potential.

Sunday Message Reflections

Today was a good day considering I was supposed to be on vacation. We had to make some changes and with the location change coming I felt I needed to postpone my vacation. Remember we will be meeting at David's Catfish House next Sunday....

Todays message was very well received even though I talked about MONEY!! I heard so many messages this week on Thanksgiving...primarily the thanks part...that I decided to tackle the giving part.

Our text was 2 Corinthians 9:7...that God wants us to be cheerful...actually hilarious in our giving. Also, don't fall for those fakes...especially on television...that are always trying to scam people out of money...all in the name of Jesus, of course.

Since I had two points I was not able to finish this week I have decided to post those points during the course of this week. Please follow the blog this week and be sure to follow along...

Top 10 Reasons I Am Thankful!

Thanksgiving is one my favorite holidays of the year. I know you probably think its because I get to eat like a mad man. The truth is I have tons of wonderful memories over the years. When I still lived with my parents we always had a house full. We would have tables lined up all over the place. My grandparents were always there. My cousins would come and we would play til we cried when they had to leave. I remember we would hide our cousins shoes just so their parents would have to look around for them...giving us more time to play. My pap used to come over and watch the parades...as we got older we still watched them because it meant football would be next. I remember snow on the ground on Turkey Day. One time me and my brother even got busted by the game warden for setting illegal traps...we set fox traps in an attempt to get some rabbits. We had the coolest beagle...his name was Beatles....that dog always did something crazy that would have everyone talking. As I type I can smell my mothers home made noodles and the rolls (they were those brown and serve). So to start my Top 10 Reasons I Am Thankful this Thanksgiving are:

10. Memories of so many that are with the Lord or that I haven't seen in years.

9. That we are probably half way done with Christmas shopping.

8. That there will be no credit cards used this shopping season.

7. Football...Football...Football...and the Celtics!

6. God has really put it on our heart to be a blessing to some precious people through the holidays.

5. I feel like God is up to something and its going to be awesome.

4. On Thanksgiving night I will see the Penquins and Thrashers fight .... I mean play hockey....I know nothing about hocky but I love the fights!

3. My Church is awesome! I love you guys so much!

2. I will be spending this season with family at T-Giving and Christmas...you never know how that makes me feel.

1. JESUS- thanks Justin I couldn't have said it better!

Keep Your JOY For the Holidays!

The holidays are upon us! For some that's exciting and for others it is a real stressor. The expense of the holiday season is usually something we are never quite prepared for, and with the cost of living through the summer months many people do not have the finances to spend like they normally would.

As you enter this time of the year try not to let your focus be on the money that you don't have. Instead try to hone in on family, friends and faith. Maybe you might want to start a tradition this season that does not require much expense. One thing to be careful about is letting the kids hear you complain (aka fight) over the lack of funds. Use this as a chance to really get your children focused on the Christ of the holidays.

For Thanksgiving go around the table and discuss what you are thankful for. If you are struggling...let your family know you are thankful for them....use it as a chance to share your faith at the kitchen table. Maybe you are disheartened that you just don't have the money to go shopping on Friday...then don't go! Stay home with your family or just get some rest. Do a cost free project that you have been putting off! Play board games...just make it A point to keep things positive.

Christmas can really be fun even if you don't have alot of money to spend. I remember my 9th grade year... when the factory closed and it sent my family spiralling. My parents always had huge Christmas' for us. Bicycles, sleds, guns, clothes, candy, electronics...whatever we wanted was the norm. That year was slim pickings...I can still remember my stack of gifts...piled up on the couch they came to my chest...I think I had 10 or 12 gifts that year. But, I remember nan and pap bringing gifts that morning and falling down the hill in the snow...I remember my grandma Shroades sitting at the table drinking her little pony bottle of Miller beer like she always did...My uncle Ray picking on me....Other family members that showed up empty handed but always expected to receive a gift from us. I remember Brad tearing through the presents and double checking the paper to make sure he didn't miss anything (he always complained)...Morgan had a few things but nothing real expensive...I remember receiving a USA jersey as it was an olympic year...what I am saying I remember a low present Christmas but I also remember all the fun we had as a family...I also remember my mother and father fighting because money was so slim. This year drink lots of hot chocolate, make cheap cookies, or pray for snow. One of the things we always did was string popcorn with a thread and needle and use it as the garlin for our tree. Instead of spending an outrageous amount of money on a live tree...go in the woods find a Charlie Brown tree...cut it down...tie it to the top of the car....proudly carry it in the house...make the decorations....your kids will love it.

For New Years don't worry we have that covered for you. Most of you know that Laurie is a New Years Baby. She will be 40 this year ... don't worry I am going to throw a humdinger of a party.

IN OTHER WORDS DON'T LET THE HOLIDAYS STRESS YOU OUT BECAUSE OF MONEY...DETERMINE THAT YOU ARE GOING TO KEEP YOU JOY....ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR FAMILY!!! BECAUSE THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT LAURIE AND I HAVE COMMITTED TO DO THIS YEAR!

Why I Am Pumped Up!!!

Today was a great day. I was so excited to see so many people out to church. Isn't it exciting to see us out grow our first facility. We were going to a second service, but instead we are renting a larger facility. God has been so good. There are quite a few churches trying to find locations to worship in...and we have been able to really find locations at great prices. Many of my friends are paying astronomical prices to be in rented facilities. Our new location will actually be a bit cheaper than the conference center.

I was so pumped to see so much spiritual growth in Shane as he brought an excellent word, I was pumped to see 5 brand new babies in service, I was pumped to hear the reports of small groups tonight, I was pumped to see Dewayne & Jim scattering to find enough seats, I was pumped to see one of our best tithes and offerings in quite a while, I was pumped to see new parents in church with their baby, I was pumped after an awesome time of worship, I am pumped that we are giving 10% of the churches income to other ministries, I am pumped to be the pastor of what I beleive is going to be the next great move of God in Enterprise, I am pumped because I feel like things are taking off, I am pumped because I am dreaming again, I am pumped because I pastor some great people, and I AM PUMPED TO BE A CHILD OF GOD! my gosh i am so pumped!!!!

Real Life Groups - TONIGHT!!!

Hey everyone...great service today. We went over our goal today by 5 people ... PTL! Wasn't it great having the Braucht family with us today. Shane brought an awesome message to wind up The Existance series today.

Tonight we have made plans for Real Life Groups....

If you are available call one of these people and they will tell you how to find their group:

• Tony & Debbie DuBose
• Dewayne & Sandi Morris
• Todd & Amber Mock
• Jim & Lisa Mock
• Justin Swasey
• Don & Amy Lines

Please join one of these fellowship groups tonight if you can. Remember Dec. 7th service will be at David's Catfish House.

Welcome Shane, Melody & Boaz Braucht - SUNDAY MORNING

We want to give a big welcome to Shane, Melody & Boaz Braucht. Some of our church family has never met Pastor Shane and his family so be sure you are in service on Sunday. Shane is going to be the campus pastor at our New Smyrna Beach campus. He and Melody were in my youth ministry years ago. They are well seasoned and looking forward to working with us in our new campus.
Personally, I am excited to have them with us. Shane will continue with the theme of The Existance. He will be teaching that We Exist to Worship God...make sure you are there.

NEW LOCATION STARTING DEC. 7TH

God is so good! I just got off the phone with Mike Franklin the owner of David's Catfish House. This is the newest restraunt in the area and has a great layout for our ministry. We will be meeting at the restraunt starting December 7th. It will be a flat rate that is actually cheaper than the Hampton Inn. Lets face it...we have no more room at the Hampton Inn. Sunday we had 3 empty seats. He said if not for the power bill he would not evern charge us...they are actually honored to help us. He heard what happened to our church ... he could not beleive someone would do that...so he has offered to let us meet there. We will be able to offer all these ministries in seperate rooms instead of everyone being in one large room:

-Kingdom Kids (aka Nursery)
-Kidzone (aka Children's Church)
-Direct Impact (aka Youth Church)
-Live Praise & Worship, Preaching
-Chit Chat Cafe (10 am coffee fellowship)

Morning service will begin as usual @ 10:30...Coffee served @ 10 am...youth services TBA (but will be on Sunday). Thanks for your patience in all these transitions. Here we go again...Praise God!

Delayed Blessings!

Its amazing when the owners of the church property kicked us out of the building after months and months of being mislead by their leadership...we had to resort to meet in our local park. For the past month we have been meeting in a hotel conference room. Now, it seems that God has opened all sort of options for us. At this time we are now debating which of the three or four locations would best suit our ministry desires. For months nothing opened up. So, we just stepped out and trusted God. Things are happening so fast I really feel like I cann't keep up with it. I beleive God delayed certain blessings because He knew that there was no integrity in the covering of our church. My eyes have really been opened. There were people that would tell me...God is not going bless you the way He desires til you are out from under WOL. For years I have heard be careful what you are connected to ... now I believe it more than ever. We have had so many caring people ask how we were doing. People all over the area have become familiar with our situation. For years people have come to our church and left with such positive impressions that they wondered how we did not have thousands in church on Sunday. But God in His wisdom knew that any sort of blessing like that may have caused other sorts of problems. Many people have said that God had to withhold blessing because of the lack of integrity in our covering. But now I truly believe God is going to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessing like we never imagined. I am so proud of how our church has stayed together through all this! You are special people and God has something great for you.

Sunday Reflections!!!

Today was a good day but I will not give it a great. The crowd was great very little room to sit. From what I could tell there were only a few seats on the front that were empty. The reason I would only call it good was because of me. Over the years I have come to grips with every message will not be a homerun. Its weird...most times I go to the pulpit with an outline ....I follow it with very few glances. Then, there are days like today ... where every time I got to a point I could not recall my next point for nothing. It was frustrating. I like to be fluent and today was really choppy. For that I apologize, but maybe its the one that we talked about. You know today we tackled the existance of Satan. Why is there evil in the world? In case you missed today we talked about that Satan is the prince of this world. That he is NOT all-knowing or ever-present. But he is organized and influences regions of the world and individuals through his organization of demons. Anytime I speak on messages like this there is a tremendous amount of spiritual warfare that takes place. Most of you that were there probably didn't notice, but I had to do something very unlike myself...at the conclusion of the message I went directly outside to get fresh air and try to clear my head. It never fails when God gives me a message like that there is always tremendous warfare that comes along with it. I'm sure just as it is in the natural realm...that the enemy does not like to be exposed. On top of that I really felt like there was people in service today that needed to hear the message...I believe people were challenged on a greater scale than we could imagine. I am blessed to know that there are people in our fellowship who were deep in the grip of Satan and today they follow Jesus. The seats of our church have ex-cons, ex-spouses, ex-occultist, ex-addicts and the list could go on. My prayer is that we could all experience the complete victory that Christ desires to bring into our lives. We do not have to lay down and let the battles that the enemy brings defeat us. We are more than conquerors through Christ our Lord. Greater is He who is in us than he who is in this world. .... Its funny I 'm sitting here blogging while Joel Osteen is on TV...you know how I always joke about his positive attitude...while I am typing he is preaching the bigger your challenges the bigger plans God has for you....now if he is on target we have some big things coming...and it is no wonder that it seems that the devil meets us at every turn...God is great... Tonight as you go to bed take time to praise God for the things he has done, and praise Him loud for the big things He is about to do!

Leadership Meeting Tonight

Good morning! Tonight we will be having a leadership meeting that is really important so please be sure to be at my house at 6:30. We will be starting on time as we have alot to cover.

Tomorrow's Message....How to Keep Your J.O.Y.

Everybody please make sure you are in church tomorrow. I know things have been tough on some of you...financially, emotionally, relationally, spiritually....so tomorrow we are going to hear how we can keep our JOY in the midst of difficult times. Now, those of you that are feeling depressed are going to try and figure a way to get out of coming tomorrow...don't let the devil win. I need all of you to call someone and make sure they are going to be in church tomorrow...PLEASE INVITE SOMEONE TO CHURCH...PLEASE,PLEASE...PLEASE WITH SUGAR ON TOP...WITH WHIP CREAM AND SPRINKLED PECANS...SEE YOU TOMORROW I AM GOING TO THE DAIRY QUEEN!

An Historical Night!!!

Last evening we all watched as history was made. Regardless of the outcome last night was destined to be a day that would be remembered for the rest of American history. For the first time in American history an African-American would win the presidency, or a woman could be elected as vice-president (that in the event John McCain could not finish his term would make her the first female president).

Personally, I thought it was amazing! The outcome was not as I chose, but that's one of the reasons that we live in the greatest country on the planet. We had the freedom to choose our leaders. I think Barack Obama (President Elect) deserves a great ovation for such an accomplishment. I am committing to pray for him and his leaders that he will select. I am concerned about his liberal policies and things of that nature, but I will not live in fear. I have issues with some of his connections past and present. He may upset me because he does not have the same world view that I do. Regardless, God knew what the outcome would be.

We need to be careful that we do not allow ourselves to be filled with fear that by and large is not founded on facts. I hear people say things that Barack has not said (don't get me wrong there are things that he has said that makes me say...keep a very close eye on him). Yet, don't run for the hills and start buying a bunch of ammunition. You can still serve God...even without GW. We can still pray for morality in America and repent when America sins. Just because the president is not a Republican does not mean he is not a good American. There are Godly Democrats. Just so you know I am a registered Independent and I have voted acrossed party lines. We as Christians must be careful about declaring one party to be of faith and not the other...that gets back to all the denominational crap we have to deal with.

I want to say how proud I am to be an American. We voted for an African American to lead our country for the first time in history. I had tears in my eyes because I was excited over the accomplishment. One question...when you say I don't have a problem with him being black do you really mean it? Or are you disguising that under deep rooted racial sin? I understand if you are concerned about morality, but today lets rejoice in the fact that we have been part of a great time in history. There will be time for finger pointing later, but today I say congratulations to Barack Obama (president-elect) of the United States of America. My heart goes out to all those who truly suffered through the civil rights movement...an ugly scar on our national heritage. Some of us will never know what they suffered through. I pledge to pray for Barack and the rest of our leaders. Please join me in doing the same.

What Does A Church Need To Make An Impact?

Last night at our leadership meeting I posed a question to all who attended. That question was like this...if you were to advise me on what a church has to have to make in impact in our culture, then what would that be? The answers varied. I have posted a few responses:

-Heartfelt Worship...Justin Swasey
-Spiritual Gift Exploration...DeWayne Morris
-Love for lost, Compassion for the hurting, Unity...Sandy Morris
-Relevance...Lisa Mock
-Willing to change, Help the community as we grow...Jim Mock
-Freshness, Follow-up...Todd Mock
-Competent Leadership with vision..ME

What do you think a successful church needs to have in place to make a kingdom impact?

Time To Elect A New President!!!

I have followed this years election process closer than before. I am one of those people that is of the opinion that the country is not headed in the right direction. Now, I am not going to use this to politicize my thoughts. I know I am concerned about the economy. More than the economy itself I am concerned with the financial structure of America. There is no way I can fatham the idea budgeting trillions of dollars. But, I know what bad borrowing principles can do to a person. Scripture definitely speaks about being a servant to the lender. If there is one thing I wish Laurie and I would have never done is borrow money in the form of loans and credit cards. Bad borrowing has effected the way we have had to live even when money was flowing in pretty good. Myself, I just find it unreasonable to pump billions into an economy so more people can borrow that money. If you fail in your business you suffer the consequences...and I better button my lips.
For the first time in my life I have really begun to explore the benfits of solar, wind,natural gas and clean burning fuels. As a matter of fact, it has brought back a wonderful memory of growing up in West Virginia. A state full of coal. So much coal that we used to get truck loads for free. I remember my parents burning coal in our fireplaces in the winter to heat the house. I also remember everyone else in town doing the same thing. I remember going to eat freshly dumped snow and having to navigate around the tiny particles of burnt coal that came down with the snow. So clean burning is a good idea.
I am concerned about the moral climate of our country. Particularly, the prejudices that still run wild. Liberals hate conservatives and visaversa. Recently, I had a man that I have done business with approach me and tell me there ain't no way we need a N**** in our White House. That is rediculous!!! That was one of the most ignorant things anyone has ever just walked up and said to me. That is not good in our country and we in the church cannot afford to hold that mindset. Fortunately, this was not a church going person. I am deeply offended by the idiotic installation art in West Hollywood. There is an apparent artist who has Sarah Palin hanging from a noose off their chimney. How offensive! Where are all the feminist on this one?

I was wondering what some of you might be thinking about as to what will guide your decision in this election...

No Meeting Tonight!!!

There will not be a leadership meeting tonight. We will have our next meeting next Monday night at my house 6:30.

Consistant Church Attendance!!!

For two weeks straight we have had the exact number of people in both services. The wild thing is that 50% of those people are totally different than the people we had last week. One of the challenges all over the country is to get people in the regual habit of going to church. Why have so many people become complacent about regular church attendance? Is going to church important?
Even mega-church pastors are puzzled by the lack of consistant participation of Christians in church services. Could it be that Christians have found more stock in athletic events, recreation and "family time" than they do worshipping God on Sundays. I put family time in quotes because you would not believe the number of "Christians" that have told me they don't go on Sunday so they can have "family time". Before you crucify me please remember I preach family time...all the time.
As leaders have we turned our churches into consumer driven marketplaces? Like WalMart you just go when you have time to go or when you need something. Or am I just missing the boat? I am seriously considering running tv advertisements urging Christians to go to church. A GET OUT TO CHURCH CAMPAIGN!
This blog is not just geared towards my church...but all you church folks that follow my blog...answer this question...Why do so many Christians miss church services on Sunday morning?

Going Fishin'

Well, in seven minutes I will wake my brother up to go the trout stream. I had my best day ever on the trout stream yesterday. We both caught our creel limit. On top of that I enjoyed about two hours of catch and release. I have never done that... it was fun.
Brad had a blast too. It was funny as they released water from the dam....Brad and I were in the middle of the river. Since his brain injury he is like a little kid sometimes. You should have seen me holding his hand tryin to walk him through high water...without getting washed away myself. We were dying laughing...I said those other guys probably thought we were gay.
You know I have not had this much fun in years with my brother. He is still a pain in the neck sometimes but I thank God for the time I am having with him.
Please pray for me and Brad as I am going to share Christ and His forgiveness with Brad. Brad knows what Hank Davis has done to me and the church. Ironically, we were watching the WVU gam...THAT THEY KICKED AUBURNS BUTT... when we came acrossed a channel with Hank on television. My brother stormed out of the room and refused to watch it. I want to explain how God forgives and as Christians we have to forgive. As a matter of fact God used this to birth a message in my heart. Hope to share it soon. WELL GOTTA GOING FISHING!!

Meeting Tonight - Give Us Your Thoughts!!!

Remember tonight is our meeting. Everyone who attended last weeks meeting please bring your ideas. We will be reviewing our first service at the Hampton Inn. Even if you are not part of the leadership team your input is welcome...please post your thoughts both what you liked and what you think needs improvement.

TODD & AMBER ARE HAVING A BABY!!!

Spending Time With My Brother

Thanks to all of you who have prayed for my brother...I will be spending some time with him this week.

First Service @ Hampton Inn Conference Center - YIPPEE

Hey folks...what a great service at the Hampton Inn this morning. I was so excited to see all the good people show up for church this morning. God is so good. I had a strange feeling this morning as I had no idea what to expect. I just knew God would show up. Thank you to all of our regulars that worshipped with us this morning. I have had tons of feedback...for the most part its all good stuff. Its probably best everyone didn't make it (I cann't believe I just said that...noone should ever miss church...just kidding) as there is no way we could have sat everyone in the conference center. Remember while we are at the Hampton Inn we will have to go to a second service once we run 65 people for two consecutive weeks. I want to go to 2 services....everyone start inviting people.

Amy Lines emailed this link in regards to the message...about our testimony:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvDDc5RB6FQ

If you have a testimony that God has given you and would like to share it some time in church please let me know...God has done so much how can we keep silent.

I WILL SHOW YOU AS YOU GO

As we stepped out on faith trusting God to provide. We determined this would be the Abrahamic call...I will show you as you go! We, the leaders, felt it necessary to leave the building we were in and trust God. What I am about to say will blow your mind, but hear me out....PRAISE GOD FOR HANK DAVIS! I believe God has used the Word of Life lack of integrity to launch us into something great.
I believe that the WOL officials lacking integrity and forcing us out of the building has forced us to trust God. Let's face it we were comfortable where we were...we have had to step out of our comfort zone. Typically, I am the one that worries most. My faith has had to be steadfast. I am not tooting my own horn as I am battle tired. Yet I am stoked, pumped, excited and looking forward to what God desires to do. Last night we had our first leadership meeting since leaving the building. It was the best leadership meeting we have had since I arrived in Enterprise...there was excitement, there was vision casting, there was honesty, there was love, there was sincere prayer, there was worship, there was input given, there was the presence of God, and I have never seen our leaders interact like they did last night.
When we had our first Fellowship in the Park...I didn't know what to expect. Over 60 people came out...unfortunately we only received $55 in tithe and offering. When Lisa (our office manager) called she was really concerned. I don't think she liked my advice...let's trust God. I didn't like my advice as I like my security. I let her know if the folks are behind our church we will need their continued financial support. I truly decided to trust God.... this week we put a few thousand in the bank...PRAISE GOD!!!
Back to my title...Abraham was called out by God to leave his comfort zone...the only assurance he had was that God would show him as he obeys. By faith Abraham went. I felt at the end of 2007 that we needed to walk away from the property. I needed to wait on the support of the elders to do so...I also had to wait for the Word of Life lawyer to ask us to leave after many obvious empty promises by the WOL "board". I think God is going to show us as we go...just like He did Abraham. We will have to trust Him the whole way. If we saw the whole picture we may decide not to go. The Hampton Inn is just a step in the right direction. It is about to get really exciting..... He will show us as we go!

WE HAVE A TEMPORARY LOCATION!!!

First let me say how awesome fellowship in the park was yesterday. It amazes me how faithful the people of God have been. Thank you to all of you that have been supporting the church with your prayers, finances and presence at our fellowship in the park. For now this will be the last church service in the park as we have secured a temporary location. This coming Sunday we will have worship in the Hampton Inn Conference Center. We have secured that location for a month, but they will let us use it as long as necessary providing no other groups book the center. Our service will begin on time....10:30. The conference room will be open at 9:45 am for coffee and fellowship. So if you would like to come early for some chit-chat time....make necessary arrangements. Obviously, this is not idea but I thank God for any and every advancement. I need these people to meet at my house for an organizational meeting tomorrow at 7pm:
Amy
Justin
Jim (excused)
Lisa
Tony
DeWayne
Todd
Debbie
Please call me if you are not able to make it! Or post it on this blog!

FYI: It was school fall break, a three day weekend and we still had nearly 50 people at fellowship in the park. You all are awesome! Lets trust God for growth, direction and provision. I have had great feedback from all seven of the small groups yesterday. What a time of discipleship and developing relationships. I had to sneak a peak at the people walking by as we worshipped God together. People looked like they wanted to join us so bad! One of the things I love about our church is the multi-cultural feel. I look at our gathering and we have black, white, hispanic, mexican (oops that was Jeremy...inside joke), but you get the point. Wealthy and poor sitting side by side. Guys and gals we have shere potential...lets agree that we are not going to let this opportunity slip between our fingers. LET'S GO FOR IT!!!

Don't Forget Fellowship In the Park---BIG ANNOUNCEMENT THIS SUNDAY!!!

REMEMBER FELLOWSHIP IN THE PARK THIS SUNDAY 4 TO 6. WE HAVE A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT. GOD IS ON THE MOVE!!!

Read Perry Noble's Blog

I will post something a little later...but I just wanted you to read Perry Noble's blog from yesterday.

TODAY IS OUR 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!

On this day 20 years ago Laurie and I came to the altar at Tri-State Church of God in Weirton, WV. We were young, not sure of what we would do or where we would be going. The past 20 years has found itself full of great joys and challenges. In those twenty years we have seen two of the most beautiful people in the world brought into our lives, Brooke & Mikey. We have made thousands of friends through our ministry. And we have endured. I recognize what an accomplishment this is. My goal is to make the next 20 years better than the previous 20 years. I love my wife! Let's Face it...She is so lucky to have me!!!

GREAT SERVICE IN THE PARK!!!!!

Yesterday was awesome as I pulled up and saw dozens of wonderful people gathered together for fellowship in the park.
Thank you to everyone who brought some of your best dishes. I appreciate DeWayne filling in and covering until I could make it back from Georgia. Sorry I missed the worship set...but thanks for leading fellowship in the park praise time. And to see everyone talking and praying in small groups was awesome.
Now that we have an idea of how it will work we will do our best to bring better structure...but not too much structure. We want fellowship in this setting. I was so excited to meet people that some of you invited to our fellowship. My guest did not make it but he assured me that he would come next week. That's twice in a row I have not managed to get my guest in church. All of you who have managed to bring people keep up the good work and don't just stop as one ... go for more. I was glad to see some families that had not been in church in a while. Overall I was very excited to see our church take the first step to overcoming our adversities. AND IT WAS GREAT HAVING TONY WITH US AGAIN!!!
I have gotten older, slower and fatter....I CONFESS DON BEAT ME in basketball AFTER ALL MY TRASH TALKING...but I was sick...I was tired...I was not planning on playing....I had not ate a good meal...his wife and kids were there...THERE WILL BE A REMATCH!!!

On a more serious note...we realize that there was no idea how this would go and it may have slipped your mind, but we still have some financial obligations. Therefore, please continue being faithful in your tithes and offerings. We will receive an offering at our next fellowship in the park. We may be in the park for the entire month of October as we are waiting for some possible locations to come available. Just a reminder that a name change will probably have to be in order.

I want to encourage everyone to do their best to keep the kids involved. I know the teens will want to wonder off but they are part of the church and I think its important that they participate in the fellowship as well. They need to be part of what we are doing. So lets encourage all of our children to stay and fellowship...we will allow time to chill, but they need to be part of the worship, word and small groups.

Fellowship in the park will include worship, word, small groups and lots of food,fellowship, and fun. Did you enjoy this weeks fellowship?

Countdown to Fellowship in the Park - THURSDAY

Only a few odds and ends remain and we will be totally done moving out of the church. Yesterday was the first time I was in the sanctuary with everything totally gone. It was weird but I know God is in this. I want to thank everyone who assisted in helping us get the job done. Everyone seems to be so full of anticipation. I am blown away by the encouragement I receive from those outside of our fellowship. It seems every corner I turn someone is asking about our situation. I'm trying to think of calling it something like our "blessing", "launching", "new beginning", or something like that. Its not a situation now! Its an opportunity to open our wings and soar. Nothing should hold us back...no Hank, no Devil, no person, no lack, no nothing. Its time to soar. As the prophet Isaiah said....mount up with wings like eagles.

FYI- Welcome home Tony!!! Missy is still in the hospital!!

BREAKING NEWS!!! Due to the connection of our name with Word of Life....i.e. we have been Word of Life doing business as The Potter's House we may need to rename our church. Due to seen and unforseen problems with Word of Life most everyone in leadership feels a name change is appropriate...everyone wants to break totally away from WOL...this was the name they gave the church. So, in the near future we may have a name change.

A few people have asked if it is okay for them to write Hank (Word of Life) a letter. I think that would be a good idea...just keep it Christian. By Christian I don't mean nice. Don't sin in your anger! I think for you to express how you feel would be therapeutic. So if you feel you need to communicate with WOL thats fine. There have been times I have been really hurt by people in the church. I want to lash out at them. But, over the years I have had a few things I do to help with my frustrations. First, I am point blank honest when I have been offended by someone. The other...I write a letter...most I never send but it gets it out of my system. Then I find it easier to go forward.

Countdown to Fellowship in the Park - WEDNESDAY!

This evening Direct Impact Youth Ministry will conduct their final service in the youth church. I was so touched by all the youth that were moved by emotion Sunday morning. Many of the kids in our church...this is the only church "building" they have known. I believe God is going to bless us with like we never dreamed He would. We will have the facilities to implement the vision that has been placed in our hearts.
I cannot wait for Sunday afternoon. I just feel like something great is goint to happen. It seems this is like a launching pad. That we are this powerful rocket about to be sent to places we have never been.
There has been so much uplifting and encouraging words that I really believe we can get IT! You know that IT that some have and others don't! That feeling that something is really happening. IT is happening in our fellowship...that has been my prayer. What is IT that you are trusting God for?

Countdown To Fellowship In The Park - TUESDAY

God is unfolding an awesome plan. Some of you have asked me to look at different passages of scripture. Last night I read over Ephesians 3:20 as Glenda had mentioned. Also, as you can see in yesterdays blog Justin sent me a passage from 2 Samuel. All of it has been great. I believe those Words are right on with our situation. Everybody stay in the Word. If God lays something on your heart post it to todays blog. Also, I want to encourage you to stay in prayer. Keep yourself humble in the sight of God. His promise is to lift you up once you have humbled yourself. So, stay humble!

Quick update: Tony DuBose is doing a little better since his surgery. Missy Young had a really rough Sunday. Please pray for both. If you are in the Dothan area they are in Flowers Hospital.

BE SURE TO INVITE PEOPLE TO FELLOWSHIP IN THE PARK....LET'S GROW WHILE WE ARE IN THE PARK!!!

Countdown to Fellowship In The Park - MONDAY

Word is getting around. People all over town are talking about our church having fellowship in the park until we are able to locate a building. Praise God the church is not about a building. Its about God's people. So many believers have joined their faith with ours that it is going to be better than ever. I am so pumped! I honestly thought I would be anxiety riddled by now, but the Lord has given me so much peace. Guys I am more excited than I have been in a very long time. I think IT is happening! Imagine the possibility of someone coming to the park to walk their dog...and leaving a born-again Christian! I still believe we can grow to 1000 people. We have no excuses now. Its all on God, but fulfilling the call is up to us. Let's be faithful to the call!

EVERYBODY INVITE SOMEBODY...LET'S GROW WHILE WE ARE IN THE PARK!!!

Final Service In Current Building Conducted Today!!!

Wow! What a great service! I am so proud of all of you that attended service. Todays message was on forgiving others. When I asked everyone who would come forward to pray for those who have done us wrong, to pray for them and to forgive them....THE ENTIRE CHURCH CAME FORWARD! It was beautiful to see all the love and compassion in church this morning. I look forward to what God is going to do...I just wanted to give you all a chance to post comments about today message....

TAKE TIME THIS WEEK TO INVITE PEOPLE TO OUR FELLOWSHIP IN THE PARK!!!

Is God Up To Something?

Today I realize God is up to something bigger than what any of us can truly see. The world scene is CRAZY! Iranian leader in US blasting us at every opportunity. Russia seems so wishee-washee in their relationships overall. Georgian president giving what seems to be sound advise that our leaders need to listen to. Pakistan and USA exchanging fire on the border. China constantly producing defective products. America looking at a finanacial collapse.

My question in all this is, Where do we turn? Imagine if our economy cascades into a depression... we as believers will have to trust God for mere existance, neighbors will have to help neighbors, frugality will need to be a way of life, credit will not be instantaneous, shortage will be unavoidable, and world war could be a harsh reality. I am not typically one to keep an eye on so many world events and try to produce intelligible commentary. But this is to monumental to turn a blind eye.

I sense that God is on the move. That there is a shaking that has begun.... Scripture tells us that this will happen. Now, I have never been a dooms-day gloomy the world is going to hell in a hand basket type of preacher. Yet, what will it take for people to turn to God...I think some Christians have even had it so easy that their dependence has never been 100% upon the provision of God. I will go out on a limb...there may even be some persecution coming for the church. We have had verbal assaults but how will westernized believers respond when their faith is tested to the core? What will happen when our positive confession of immediate health and wealth comes up as empty as the doctrine itself. We have bought into the instant gratification culture as much as the secular humanist. Evidenced by consumer driven churchology. Kinda like if the Community Church Super Market doesn't have it I will just go to the Baptimart.

Ironically, I feel like God is pulling some things together both eschatologically and immediately. My spirit leaps at the fact that we are being forced to do church in a way that we have never done it before. Next week we have decided to meet in the park...because we have nowhere to go...and do you know whats crazy .... I AM PUMPED. I can see lost people checking us our and getting saved. I can see believers gathered around in lawn chairs and worshipping while the sun sets. Maybe in a crazy world God will have to birth some crazy churches that will minister to a crazy world!!! Call me crazy but I think God is up to something! What about you?

Come To Our Church Moving Sale

Hey everyone! Don't forget to come buy some stuff at the church moving sale. Those of you that have some free time we could use your assistance. Come and get it ...cheap, cheap, cheap. Friday & Saturday 8 to 3.

God Will Not Give Us More Than We Can Handle

I Corinthians 10:13 tells us that God will not give us more than we can bear. The proper context of that passage is in handling temptations. But all the stuff that goes on around us is sometimes the conduit of temptation. We get burdened down and temptation creeps in trying to entice us.

Our church situation has been a sore spot for me for a few years. The past year has been extremely stressful in dealing with people that are intentionally deceptive. For the last couple of weeks we have had to plan our exit strategy because of the greed of people that parade around like they are annointed of God. I have been tempted to call them up and tell them exactly how I feel about their conduct....then this week came. We still have nowhere to go. We are planning our final service and to sell all the stuff we cann't take with us in a big yard sale. This takes serious time....and this is what has happened this past week.

First my sons motorcycle locks up and he is in the middle of motocross series in which he is the points leader. That may not sound like much but Mikey has prepared for the past couple years to start racing. Not only that this has cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars. The bike will cosst hundreds and hundreds to get repaired. Not only that he had a few bad crashes that he did not tell me about on a friends bike. That bike is worth $6000 alone!! Thursday, Brooke calls crying. I am on the floor my back has locked up I cann't move. The other problem was that there was a 4 month old baby stranded on the couch because Brooke could not get to her. Good thing she was carrying her phone when she fell or who knows how long she may have laid there in pain. We spend Thursday and Friday with that situation. Monday, my wife calls me while she is sitting for my niece in Atlanta. She says that she needs me to sit down and not be upset with her, and told me that I cannot worry. Well too late! She tells me that the only eye that she can see out of has hundreds of floaters and she is afraid her vitrus is leaking, that she has possibly detatched her retina. Now, detatched retinas have already equalled blindness in our family so this is real serious matter to us. So she goes to the doctor at Emory University (the one who diagnosed her years ago). They check her over and tell her the vitreous is leaking ...praise God no tear...but she is at extremely high risk. That if it worsens it could possibly be a detatchment next time. Then yesterday I get a call at 7 in the morning that Tony has been taken to the hospital with a possible heart-attack. Now, Tony is not just a member or an elder. He has been like a spiritual father to me since coming to Enterprise. He is a pillar in our church. Debbie is one of the sweetest women on the planet and I know she cannot stand alone in this (praise God they both have family that gives them loving support). Yet I want to be there for them. Then, my golf partner and good friend has to go through the fear of watching his wife battle cancer. She has to have part of her lung and rib removed. Today, I come in the office only to have a letter from Whittaker Warren threatening to sue the church for not paying the property insurance. We call them to let them know that the property is not ours and they simply say it was made out to us so we have to handle it. They will file suit by October 6th if we don't pay the bill. The owners will be notified! There is so much more that a book could not contain it all.

Okay...with all that said. God must be on the move because the devil has pulled out every stop and tried to use every situation to drag me down. God will not give us more than we can handle, but I think I am almost there. I believe so strongly that God wants to do something major in our church. The devil must know something that we don't because he has been really busy with out church. I had a conversation with him...it was like this .... devil, in the name of Jesus, that's enough, stop what you're doing. We are in a battle. We have to press-on towards the prize, the high-calling that Christ has called us to. NEVER GIVE UP!

Inviting People To Church

I wanted to thank everyone for a very good Sunday service. I really appreciate those of you who invited people to church. That was the Sunday assignment...just invite people. It was great to hear so many people talking about who they invited. I was blessed to know that DeWayne and Sandi's neighbor came with them. Matthew had his step-son and his friend. Just a joy to meet them. I think Jeremy better marry that girl he invited (oops she wasn't a visitor...good to see you in church Jenny-fur!!!!) Even if the person or persons you invited did not come it was still a success. Why? Because I realize for some of you that was a major step outside of the box. Just keep inviting them! Eventually, they will come. I bet I invited 20 people and not one showed up! Laurie and I targeted one in particular and he just couldn't make it this Sunday. We have been working on him for a long time. His son has committed his life to Christ at TPH and he will be next! Those folks you were inviting are the people you need to spend time in prayer over. Asking God to save them and to draw them by His Spirit. In the midst of the crazy adventure we are about to embark upon let's still keep trusting God to add people to our fellowship.

Thank you to everyone who helped with the cookout after Sunday service. I have never seen that many people stay. I think that 100% of the people in attendance stayed for the cookout. It was amazing! As a matter of fact, there was hardly a left over to be had. I noticed all of our visitors were greeted by several of our church folks. Praise & Worship was awesome! Good job praise team! What happened this Sunday can not be a one time event. This needs to be the nature of our ministry... How about the response at the conclusion of the message. I have been told that when I get save God will really use me (I'm still praying about all that). I was blown away by Sundays altar time. To be honest I wanted time to freeze so I could just stand there and take it all in as God moved on different hearts. Anyway, just wanted everyone to know that I thought Sunday was a success...keep IT going!!!!! Please take a moment to post your thoughts!

Brooke Taken To Hospital...She's Okay

I was on my way to the office today when Brooke called us crying and laying on the floor in pain. She works for a family in their home and she was there alone with the 4 month old when her back just locked up and knocked her to the floor. After about an hour she got on the couch. That was right about the time Laurie and I was able to find the house. A friend kept the baby while we took Brooke to the hospital. Oddly, her back just absolutely locked up...they shot her up with cortezone and pain medicine. Then they sent her to a Chiropractor to losen her up. I about punched the doctor when he comes in and says...well she's not in pregnant. I said obviously as I am not in prison. Her back still hurts but she is trying to sleep it off with hard drugs. Please pray for her. It appears just to much tension and stress...you know the old first semester in college and on your own. She has found herself in heated theological debates, playing powder puff football, and being offered alcoholic drinks all day during football games. She is doing good. Just a big adjustment.

Should We Change Our Name?

I have several people suggest that a name change is in order with our location change. Some people have just questioned whether we would change it or not. I have never viewed our name as a relevant name. It was a play on TD Jakes if you ask me. An attempt to draw attention with a big name. Our church has built a good reputation in the community, and many know us as The Potter's House. On the other hand, we have been confused with a Glory to Him, TD Jakes, a cult in Australia, and a counseling/recovery center. Some people have called about our pottery.
Because I have now engaged in developing a sepeterate campus church in Florida. I think it would be okay to have a name change. I like Christ-Life Church. That is the name of the campus in Florida. This might be a good time to bring it all under the same name. What do you think?

Vision for the Future: I want us to get IT!

I have to admit I have not been real comfortable of late. My world has been rocked. I am losing a building, but I am not losing a vision.....I HAVE GOOD NEWS FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO INTEND ON MAKING THE CHANGE WITH ME... For years God has put ideas in me that I have never put forward in full force. Early on this Wednesday morning I want you to know my vision for the future of our ministry together... that is to teach the Word of God in such a creative way that more and more people will want to follow Jesus. If we have to assemble in a field, a run down warehouse, in a park, or where-ever IT will happen. You may not get IT now, but you will!

Leadership Meeting Tonight 6:30

Tonight TPH will be having our leadership meeting. We will be organinzing a couple of events. FIRST DON'T FORGET THIS SUNDAY IS THE DAY TO INVITE THAT LOST FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMEMBER...HECK I DON'T CARE INVITE PEOPLE THAT HATE YOU OR MAYBE THEY HATE ME JUST INVITE PEOPLE AND TRUST GOD TO SAVE THEM!!!!

The other thing is the situation we find ourselves dealing with. I need to address each team so they know what their going to be responsible for in our transition. ANYONE THAT HAS ANY THOUGHTS DON'T BE TIMID FIRE THEM OVER AS I AM WILLING TO ENTERTAIN JUST ABOUT ANY THOUGHT....TONY, BE NICE!!!!

I LOVE YOU GUYS AND GOD WILL SEE US THROUGH THIS I AM CONTACTING SOME GUYS THAT I TRUST. I KNOW THEM BUT THEY DON'T KNOW ME. JUST SOME MINISTRIES THAT I THINK WE HAVE ALOT IN COMMON WITH...THERE IS WISDOM IN COUNSEL.

BY THE WAY THANK YOU TO TONY, DEWAYNE, JIM, JUSTIN AND LISA FOR YOUR CONSTANT INPUT I COULD NOT MAKE GOOD DECISIONS WITHOUT YOUR CONSTANT INPUT...

Please Pray For Our Church

As many of you know we have been in a real battle to retain our church property. We were under the covering of a group that promised the world and delivered very little. The Potter's House came out from under the spiritual covering of this group in 2007. They have lead us to believe that they would sign the property back to the church. This week we received and official letter from their lawyer that appears they never intended to do that. Instead they want us to vacate so they can sell the church out from under those of us who worship there. There is so much I just don't feel like getting into because it is so aggravating. Please pray for The Potter's House as we are being forced out of our church. Feel free to ask any questions and I will respond if I have an answer.

I Am GOD And I Approve His Message

After watching the last couple of National Conventions for both political parties I am tired of hearing...this is so and so and I approve this message. They slam each other and then say ... I approve of this message. My first thought is always who cares? That's just one of the things that gets under my skin during political seasons. The great thing is that they didn't come up with the old ... I approve this message...God did!
Do you remember when John the Baptist was approached by Jesus. John told Him that he needed to be baptized by Him. When John finally agreed to baptize Jesus the story continued with the Heavens opening and the Spirit of God descending upon Him. Then God says..."This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:13-17). He wasn't just pleased with His son He was approving the message that Jesus had been preaching. HE IS MY SON AND I APPROVE OF HIM AND HIS MESSAGE. We need to be so caught up in the purpose of God that He would be willing to proclaim...I AM GOD AN I APPROVE HIS MESSAGE.

Feeling Down?

I can remember years ago having a real battle with anxiety attacks due to a stressful situation in which I found myself. I learned that I was slightly depressed causing me to have these anxiety attacks. There was one night that the attacks were so severe my wife called the ambulance because I thought I was having a heart-attack. The second night she called them the ambulance driver asked if I had been under alot of stress. I told him yes! He said I think you are having anxiety attacks...I had never heard of them.
I was depressed because of all the adversity I had been dealing with in the church I was pastoring. Decisions I made to relocate to another part of the country appeared to be bad ones. I felt like a failure because I thought I had let my family down. There were issues surfacing in our marriage. I wanted to commit sins that would nullify me from ministry. Without going into alot of detail I felt like my life was crumbling around me and I was an absolute loser. I WAS DOWN! I DIDN'T JUST FEEL DOWN I WAS DOWN!
That time period was some of the worst in my pastoral career. Yet in those awful situations I now draw from that time as a leader. Adversity has been one of my greatest teachers. I have been forced to learn about me and change things that weren't appealing as a leader.
Even since coming to Alabama I have had moments of feeling down, but nothing like I felt in those days. Yet, when someone left the church or caused me problems I would go back to that feeling like a failure...through the past eight years of pastoring some of the greatest people on the planet I have grown through that. What am I saying? God never promised a rose garden. He just promised to be there in the good, the bad and the real bad times. Find out what's getting you down...and deal with it. As you do...in time you will actually grow from it. Hey..its late...I'm tired and heading to bed!

The Labor of Love

Yesterday in church I shared a message titled 'The Labor of Love'. I began by talking about how difficult it is to love people, especially if you have a hard time liking them. We focused on Matthew 22:34-42 where Jesus tells the disciples (that's us!) to love the Lord with ALL our heart, ALL our hearts, and ALL of our minds. Then he went on to tell that we should love our neigbour like we love ourselves.
Dr. James Dobson wrote a book on marriage a few years back called "Love Must Be Tough". I have come realize that love must be tough and that there is time for tough love. Yet the challenge to truly love everyone is a so laborious. Honestly, it is so difficult to love those whom you don't like. And the reason you may not like someone is so widespread...it could be a personality clash, attitudes in general, their lack of integrity, unforgiveness on one side or the other, the way the live, and the list could go on.
I have found that alot of Christians have no problem loving others, but they struggle with self love. ITS OKAY TO LOVE YOURSELF. I had a good friend in college, Craig Gray. He and I worked together waiting tables. Of course, we worked with tons of women. So beauty talk was a big issue in the breakroom. One day Craig and I started acting out ( I know you may find that hard to believe). We acted like beauty queens...and I would like to thank all of you who voted for me...I want you to know that I love myself...I will make the world a better place...we can live in peace...but most importantly I just want you to know how much I love me. You can imagine we were ripping it up. Had the walk going...the talk going. It was hilarious. Do you believe that was almost 20 years ago, and when we see each other we still do that. His brother David (whom most of you know as Pastor David) does it just about every time we talk on the phone. I am not talking about beauty pageant/fake self love when I suggest you love yourself. Honestly, how many people don't love themselves because of past mistakes they have made? I made the point that a young girl who begins to act out sexually to get people to like her does not respect herself...and if she has trouble respecting herself the how will she love herself. How 'bout critical Christians always talking about others...I have found usually talking about themselves....insecure. Hey, listen, I didn't start getting others saved until I got me saved. Maybe you need to forgive yourself of some things you have done. Your personal failure does not write you off as unworthy of love...especially not Gods love.
As you learn to be at peace with yourself...you learn to love others. But that thing about love God with ALL our heart, soul and mind. That's what I challenged the church to commit to Sunday morning. Getting back to loving God with ALL,ALL,ALL. This may seem like strange talk in our culture, but we have to love God more than ourselves, our family, our money, our hobby, and so on. I have learned the more I express my love for God and to God. The more I sense God filling me with His love. I love my wife like I do because I truly love my God. And because I love my God He gives me His love in turn that allows me to love my wife like Christ loved the church even willing to lay down my life for her. The more I love God...and He in turn reveals His love to me...I can then love my children better because I know the love of my Heavenly Father. That even includes in disciplining them...if you don't discipline you don't love them. LET'S BE REAL GOD LOVES US LONG BEFORE WE LOVE HIM. While we were at our worst in rebellion and hatred towards Him He loved us and sent His Son to the cross to show how muh he loved us. So today I am asking you to re-commit you love not just your life to God. God Bless and Pray for those in Gustav's path.

Football Is In The Air!!!

I have to be unspiritual today! Well, not really as I have learned football is as important as going to church in southern Alabama. Sometimes football seems to be important than church. Sounds like a frustrated preacher. Not really because I love football. There is a smell that gets in the air this time of year. Tonight while driving home with Laurie all I wanted to hear were scores and highlights. Everyone had their Alabama shirts on tonight and noone wanted anything to do with Auburn. I am going to go on the record here before the season gets rolling.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ENTERPRISE WILDCATS. I am predicting a 6-4 season for the Wildcats. I think they will make it into the second round of the playoffs.
Troy won last night they will win all their games that do not include the big shots. Ohio State will kill them!
Alabama had a great recruiting season. Julio Jones is the talk of the country. Yet they will be one game better than 500 this year. BUT ALABAMA WILL HAVE A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN THE NEXT FOUR OR FIVE YEARS.
I hope Auburn loses all their games! Or let them be undefeated when they come into Morgantown against the mighty Mountaineers.
West Virginia will lose one game and play in the national championship. If they go undefeated they will win it all. Pat White will be Heisman trophy winner. They better win this year because they will struggle the next 3 or 4 seasons. All that talent will be gone.
MICHIGAN WILL WIN FOUR GAMES UNDER THE RULE OF THE TRADER!!!
Surprise team will be Notre Dame..Don't overlook Pitt or Penn State. A bad year will bring the retirement of Joe Paterno.
USC will lose two games...over-rated. Ohio State and WVU may match up in January.
Ken Tuck has changed churches because the preacher lets him out in time to watch the kick off..he is now influencing Harvest to hire Redskin fans. The Terps will spend most the season spinning on their backs...may 3 wins...I predict 2.
The Dolphins will be 500, Brett Favre will flop in New York. Browns will make it to the semi-finals. Dallas will cry..all what's new. I hope they lose every game! Super Bowl champs will be...the Giants again...and I cannot stand the Manning boys. Maybe a repeat of last years Super Bowl....Long shot Pittsburgh/Cleveland vs. Dallas in the Super Bowl. Sorry Ken the redskins 2 or 3 games over 500.
For my old high school in West Virginia...Oak Glen will have a 500 season and upset Weirton in the playoffs!

DECISIONS DECISIONS DECISIONS

Life is so full of decisions. I really would appreciate some of y'all joining with me in prayer over some important decisions that need to be made.
First, I am praying over a trip to Uganda. I cannot be out of the country as long as they would like me to go, but I do have a desire to take advantage of this opportunity. Pray that God will give us clear direction and a time period that works for all of us.
I have committed to launch a new campus in New Smyrna Beach, FL. I will be the lead pastor and my precious brother, Shane Braucht, will be the campus pastor. I am praying that The Potter's House will help in this endeavor. NSB has an immediate population of approximately 50,000 and the Daytona metro is over a half million. This area could really use a church that is focused on getting the message of Christ out to those who need Him.
Finally, as some of you know our church has found itself in a very unique situation over the ownership of the land. Almost nine years ago, before I was in the picture, a group came in as a "spiritual covering". They made tons of promises, and took advantage of a struggling little church. In the process they managed to have the deed shifted to their name. As we have grown we have had the desire to relocate into the city. This group agreed to sign the church property back, but they have done nothing but manipulate and mislead. I have to lead the church in a major change as we know we will have to relocate, and basically start fresh. There are a couple of options we must choose from so please pray with us over this.

Being in leadership requires decision making that cannot be handled alone. I have an awesome group of 3 to 5 people that I meet with anytime I have a major decision to make. I also listen the opinions of others once I have made my proposals. To many people try to lead churches from a my-way or the highway concept. Its like a dictatorship. I beleive that other people on my team have great ideas and sometimes see things that I don't see. That's why I have people that help me in my decision making process. Scripture teaches that there is safety in counsel. When you have a decision to make...gather a few people around...people that will be honest...people that have wisdom...not yes-men!! Not flakey prophets or people that God is always speaking audibly to them.
Ask God for wisdom as He promises to give it in the book of James.
Then, be patient and wait upon the Lord...He will lead, guide and direct.

It Takes A Team

Over the past few years I have been blessed with a great team of leaders. I have come to realize that it takes a team of committed believers that buy into the vision and desire to make it happen. The Potter's House has faced some serious challenges over the past couple years and God has had the right people on board the whole time. Yeah, people have come , pretended to buy in, and then bolted when they realized it wasn't about them. But how 'bout these folks that have hunkered down...survived our storms...and still see great things ahead for our church. I have asked God to make us grow...spiritually and numerically. For that to happen we need His blessing...that's a given. We also need everyone on board committed to the vision and doing what it takes to make it happen. I have been blessed as the leadership core we have now has remained committed for nearly eight years. We have even added a few here and there. It will take a team that is willing to work hard and go the extra mile to see this vision come to pass. The old saying that there is no I in TEAM has to apply. What God has shown us...where God is taking us...what He desires to do in and through us...will require that we all work together. Even if at times we don't get our way. I look forward to watching God grow our church, our influence and our team...

New Ministry Ideas

In an era of technology I am excited about beginnning this blog as an attempt to interact with those that know of my ministry efforts but don't know me. Also, this is a way for those of you who do know me to hear and follow my thoughts. I am working hard to transition the way I do ministry. That does not mean I am changing my message. The message does not change but the method does. God has recently opened some crazy doors. This past Monday I was sitting on the couch with my wife watching a documentary on the Chad-Sudan crisis. I asked my wife if she thought I was crazy because I wanted to go and minister to people in those areas of Africa. That I really wanted to go to the places where people still live on dirt floors. The next day a group of young believers whom I had never met was in a meeting that I was attending regarding and inner-city Atlanta outreach. They approached me and asked who I was...this blew me away...they said we were praying last night (while I was sitting on my couch asking wondering on how I could go to Africa on a missions trip) about someone to lead us to Africa and God put you on our heart...we didn't know you...we had know idea who you was...and here you are...WOW. So I did the super-spiritual thing and said I have to pray about it!! There is so much more that God is doing right now that I cannot wait to share what is getting ready to happen!