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10 months ago
Friday, January 30, 2009
We Serve A God Of Miracles
I am just so humbled by God. Like King David proclaimed we serve a God of miracles. Last week something happened that I felt was a direct attack that the devil launched against our finances. OF COURSE THE DEVIL WILL ATTACK A LEADER IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD WHO IS WILLING TO MAKE A RUCKUS. Laurie and I have really upped our giving since the economy has taken a down turn. I don't want to go into detail, but God has the ability to take the devils attacks and bring glory to Himself. I was so under attack that I was getting a really bad attitude, even towards God, as to why He would allow things to go wrong. I looked up and said you have to do something...DID HE EVER...MORE THAN WE CAN ASK OR IMAGINE.
The truth is that the church finances were so down this month that I was not able to receive a paycheck on Monday. That stunk and I was not a happy camper! Wednesday it was brought to my attention that a brother in Christ was struggling financially. The Lord put it on me and Laurie's heart to help this good brother and his family. Now, remember Sunday...passionate giving will hurt...well I was battling, but my principles kicked in. My principle is that when there is a need and you have the ability to meet the need you do it. Faith without works is dead...it was exactly the scripture God laid on my heart at Tony's during prayer the other night.
To make a long story short God blessed me with a nice sale on Ebay...but that's not all! Wednesday we decided to buy groceries for that friend...Thursday someone sent a tithe to the church that actually put us ahead of budget and I got paid....I cannot tell how many times God has come through. When you're faithful to Him and His word. He is faithful to you. I truly have experienced the pouring out a blessing that you cannot contain this week. Come and talk to me about and I will tell you the whole story.
The truth is that the church finances were so down this month that I was not able to receive a paycheck on Monday. That stunk and I was not a happy camper! Wednesday it was brought to my attention that a brother in Christ was struggling financially. The Lord put it on me and Laurie's heart to help this good brother and his family. Now, remember Sunday...passionate giving will hurt...well I was battling, but my principles kicked in. My principle is that when there is a need and you have the ability to meet the need you do it. Faith without works is dead...it was exactly the scripture God laid on my heart at Tony's during prayer the other night.
To make a long story short God blessed me with a nice sale on Ebay...but that's not all! Wednesday we decided to buy groceries for that friend...Thursday someone sent a tithe to the church that actually put us ahead of budget and I got paid....I cannot tell how many times God has come through. When you're faithful to Him and His word. He is faithful to you. I truly have experienced the pouring out a blessing that you cannot contain this week. Come and talk to me about and I will tell you the whole story.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Ministry Opportunity - SUPER BOWL FELLOWSHIP
During a ministry leaders meeting Amy talked about a Super Bowl outreach. Due to circumstances beyond my control I cannot work on the outreach as I wanted to. So, if someone wants to pick up and put a fellowship together. Just call me and I will give you the ideas...its fairly simple.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Happy Birthday Justin
We have an awesome youth pastor...HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUSTIN!! XOXOXOXOXO I know you love when I hug you!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
I have no clue what I am doing!
I am going to bed with this thought tonight after watching the first video of the Purpose Driven Passion series. I have no clue what I am doing! After following the blog of other pastors that have been in it as long as I have they feel the same way, but they seem to be doing it right.
I question myself in exposing how I really feel. But I am convinced that I have no clue how this church thing is supposed to go. I have tried everything and done everything I know to try and do. Yet our church just is not growing....and yes I mean numerically! Which concerns me whether we are growing spiritually!
One time a couple years ago I borrowed something from Hillcrest Baptist called high attendance Sunday. They had so much success doing it! It was simple..invite a friend, we will preach Jesus, and we will give them a good meal. They had people everywhere...their members brought friends and family. They experienced one of their highest attendance to date. So I thought I have to try that! I remeber that two people brought someone. And our attendace was an all time low...we had like 30 in church that day. So, I said I will never do that again!
Our church is full of nice people, the music is good, and the preaching isn't even that bad if I say so myself. So, I have no idea why we are not growing. Which leads me to believe that I have no clue what I am doing! I know I sound like a babbling results oriented nut case, but after nine years of preaching about church growth, in just about every area there is to preach about, that we would have grown in some of them.
This past week I encouraged everyone to invite others, emailed our entire list on several occasions, set a goal of 100 people and we have less than we did a week ago. I preach on money and we have the lowest offering ever. I have the reverse effect syndrom. If I preach on it, or heaven forbid that I brag about something good in our church, its like we just stop. I teach about church growth...we get smaller. I teach on financial blessing...noone gives. I have threatened to teach on sex (within the confines of marriage of course) and see what happens there! Anyway, I just don't have a clue! And that's what I will wrestle with as I go off to bed tonight. Can someone help me? Or I am going to preach on sex!
I question myself in exposing how I really feel. But I am convinced that I have no clue how this church thing is supposed to go. I have tried everything and done everything I know to try and do. Yet our church just is not growing....and yes I mean numerically! Which concerns me whether we are growing spiritually!
One time a couple years ago I borrowed something from Hillcrest Baptist called high attendance Sunday. They had so much success doing it! It was simple..invite a friend, we will preach Jesus, and we will give them a good meal. They had people everywhere...their members brought friends and family. They experienced one of their highest attendance to date. So I thought I have to try that! I remeber that two people brought someone. And our attendace was an all time low...we had like 30 in church that day. So, I said I will never do that again!
Our church is full of nice people, the music is good, and the preaching isn't even that bad if I say so myself. So, I have no idea why we are not growing. Which leads me to believe that I have no clue what I am doing! I know I sound like a babbling results oriented nut case, but after nine years of preaching about church growth, in just about every area there is to preach about, that we would have grown in some of them.
This past week I encouraged everyone to invite others, emailed our entire list on several occasions, set a goal of 100 people and we have less than we did a week ago. I preach on money and we have the lowest offering ever. I have the reverse effect syndrom. If I preach on it, or heaven forbid that I brag about something good in our church, its like we just stop. I teach about church growth...we get smaller. I teach on financial blessing...noone gives. I have threatened to teach on sex (within the confines of marriage of course) and see what happens there! Anyway, I just don't have a clue! And that's what I will wrestle with as I go off to bed tonight. Can someone help me? Or I am going to preach on sex!
You Have To Want It!
Today I shared what I would want for Christ-Life Church in Enterprise if I could just give it to them right now!
1. To be the largest church in the area!
2. To have money to do whatever they needed!
3. To have a paid full time staff for ministy leadership!
4. To have a modern facility used to proclaim Christ around the world!
It's like anything else...you have to want it! Do you want it?
1. To be the largest church in the area!
2. To have money to do whatever they needed!
3. To have a paid full time staff for ministy leadership!
4. To have a modern facility used to proclaim Christ around the world!
It's like anything else...you have to want it! Do you want it?
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Please Pray For Sunday Service
Hey just a quick post to ask everyone to spend time praying over the service tomorrow. I believe God wants to do something big. Come expecting His presence to be there. I will spending some extra time in prayer...dont' miss tomorrow!
Friday, January 23, 2009
KEEP GOING!!!
Remember the little train...I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. As he approached the top of the hill it became I know I can, I know I can, I know Ican. This week I have watched so many in our church come under attack all at once. All sorts of crazy stuff happened. The devil will and is pulling out all stops. Laurie and I got absolutely burnt by some crap this week....but we are determined to keep going..
Keep going don't quit! If you quit now you could lose all the progress/momentum that has been built up. I am determined to quit letting sneak attacks get me down.
I was saw things begin to unravel in so many lives (including ours) this week and it irritated me so much that I looked up and said...."go ahead devil...cause I'm not gonna stop."
KEEP GOING...I KNOW YOU CAN! I KNOW YOU CAN! I KNOW YOU CAN!
Keep going don't quit! If you quit now you could lose all the progress/momentum that has been built up. I am determined to quit letting sneak attacks get me down.
I was saw things begin to unravel in so many lives (including ours) this week and it irritated me so much that I looked up and said...."go ahead devil...cause I'm not gonna stop."
KEEP GOING...I KNOW YOU CAN! I KNOW YOU CAN! I KNOW YOU CAN!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
We Need A Sign For Sunday
Not a spiritual sign from God! Rather a sign for the church. Something creative to put on the side of the road directing people to our location. Anyone want to take on the challenge?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Ticking Off The Status Quo
My intention was to title this p*****g off the status quo, but I guess am not quite as liberated as Perry Noble. By the way you are not seeing red...that's the actual color I am blogging in today.
I am calling out the status quo...staff, leaders, members, hit-and-miss church attenders, pastors, managers, business people, community organizers and even sinners. You are on the carpet. Why? Because the mindset of the status quo has held things back for far too long.
If you remember one of my New Years Resolutions was to step up my leadership to help our church go forward. Some of you are hating that...because now when you don't do something (like attend meetings, carry your load) I actually want a reason as to why. I have been merciful on the lack of follow-through because for the most part we have always been a volunteer leadership staff. That is my fault! Excellence can never settle for second best!
I get ticked when we come together, work on something, put it into action only to have a few on the team carry their load. Resulting in the shelving of another great idea. For this reason the status quo will steifel creativity. AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN NO MORE!!!
The status quo does not change an organization. An organization must become a movement. Below are a few quotes from Seth Godin,
things happen."
"People yearn for change, they relish being part
of a movement, and they talk about things that are remarkable, not
boring."
The status quo resists change...there is nothing remarkable to talk about...and they are boring! This means to be part of a movement of God the status quo must change.
The same old, same old is boring and frankly I am sick of it.
God has so much in my heart. I am committed to changing the status quo because the status quo has been our biggest enemy. Change is not coming...its here!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDxcyqeRc-4
I am calling out the status quo...staff, leaders, members, hit-and-miss church attenders, pastors, managers, business people, community organizers and even sinners. You are on the carpet. Why? Because the mindset of the status quo has held things back for far too long.
If you remember one of my New Years Resolutions was to step up my leadership to help our church go forward. Some of you are hating that...because now when you don't do something (like attend meetings, carry your load) I actually want a reason as to why. I have been merciful on the lack of follow-through because for the most part we have always been a volunteer leadership staff. That is my fault! Excellence can never settle for second best!
I get ticked when we come together, work on something, put it into action only to have a few on the team carry their load. Resulting in the shelving of another great idea. For this reason the status quo will steifel creativity. AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN NO MORE!!!
The status quo does not change an organization. An organization must become a movement. Below are a few quotes from Seth Godin,
"Movements have leaders and movements make
things happen."
"People yearn for change, they relish being part
of a movement, and they talk about things that are remarkable, not
boring."
The status quo resists change...there is nothing remarkable to talk about...and they are boring! This means to be part of a movement of God the status quo must change.
The same old, same old is boring and frankly I am sick of it.
God has so much in my heart. I am committed to changing the status quo because the status quo has been our biggest enemy. Change is not coming...its here!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDxcyqeRc-4
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Making A Ruckus!!!
I was sitting in Peking Chinese Buffet in New Smyrna Beach eating lunch and reading a book by Seth Godin. The book is titled Tribes: We Need You To Lead Us. It is a phenominal book that goes against the status quo of typical leadership writings. Most leadership books I have read talk about finding and developing the leaders around you. TRIBES is a book that says everyone is a leader and everyone within the organization needs to begin to lead.
While reading the book and biting into a great tasting sushi roll Godin makes a comment that has lit a fire inside of me for the past week. Upon his exhortation to create effective change he blasts those groups that relish the status quo. He says, "People yearn for change, they relish being part of a movement, and they talk about things that are remarkable, not boring." Godin shares a new rule for growth about finding those who will buy in and support the changes that need to be made. What excited me was the last sentence of this particular section.
"Leaders make a ruckus."
I was sitting alone enjoying my lunch when I read that statement. All of a sudden I found myself laughing out loud and proclaiming as if someone was sitting with me....that's freakin' right! I couldn't believe it... I said it out loud and who knows what the people around me were thinking.
I typically don't use words like freaking, sucks and pissed off. I had a pastor drill into my head that those were not appropriate words for Christians to say. Ironically, that very pastor has been at the core of integral issues for years. Many people have encouraged me to disconnect with that pastor, and over the last year I have done that. Some have insuated that our connection to his ministerial covering has hurt our ability to grow and prosper. That may be true...but that is also letting other people off the hook to easy. In particular it lets all of us who are part of the core leadership off the hook. The truth as I see it...the status quo has kept us from growing...the lack of follow-up and follow-through has brought our momentum to a screaching halt at times. That will have to change for us to achieve the vision that God has placed in our hearts. I am committed to challenge the status quo so that we can make a ruckus for the glory of God.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BARACK OBAMA!
THIS IS A GREAT DAY IN AMERICAN HISTORY!!
I MAY NOT AGREE WITH YOU ON ALL ISSUES BUT I AM COMMITTED TO PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR ADMINISTRATION!!!
THE STATUS QUO HATES DAYS LIKE THIS!!!!
While reading the book and biting into a great tasting sushi roll Godin makes a comment that has lit a fire inside of me for the past week. Upon his exhortation to create effective change he blasts those groups that relish the status quo. He says, "People yearn for change, they relish being part of a movement, and they talk about things that are remarkable, not boring." Godin shares a new rule for growth about finding those who will buy in and support the changes that need to be made. What excited me was the last sentence of this particular section.
"Leaders make a ruckus."
I was sitting alone enjoying my lunch when I read that statement. All of a sudden I found myself laughing out loud and proclaiming as if someone was sitting with me....that's freakin' right! I couldn't believe it... I said it out loud and who knows what the people around me were thinking.
I typically don't use words like freaking, sucks and pissed off. I had a pastor drill into my head that those were not appropriate words for Christians to say. Ironically, that very pastor has been at the core of integral issues for years. Many people have encouraged me to disconnect with that pastor, and over the last year I have done that. Some have insuated that our connection to his ministerial covering has hurt our ability to grow and prosper. That may be true...but that is also letting other people off the hook to easy. In particular it lets all of us who are part of the core leadership off the hook. The truth as I see it...the status quo has kept us from growing...the lack of follow-up and follow-through has brought our momentum to a screaching halt at times. That will have to change for us to achieve the vision that God has placed in our hearts. I am committed to challenge the status quo so that we can make a ruckus for the glory of God.
CONGRATULATIONS TO BARACK OBAMA!
THIS IS A GREAT DAY IN AMERICAN HISTORY!!
I MAY NOT AGREE WITH YOU ON ALL ISSUES BUT I AM COMMITTED TO PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR ADMINISTRATION!!!
THE STATUS QUO HATES DAYS LIKE THIS!!!!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Ministry Leaders Meeting - JANUARY 19TH
Ministry leaders please remembert that it has been two weeks and our next meeting is tomorrow. Please remember you will be sharing with the rest of us what you have worked on for the past two weeks. Looking forward to seeing you all at my house. We will start promptly at 6:30. You are going to want to follow my blogs this week....I am goint to make a ruckus!!
Friday, January 16, 2009
155 Survive Plane Crash!!!
Yesterday while driving near over the intercoastal the radio broke in and asked for people to pray ( I did ) because an airplane had crashed in the Hudson and they were showing people in the river.
My heart sunk and I prayed that God would help the survivors. Of course, my first thought was a terrorist attack. While driving home Laurie called and told me that all the passengers survived....what a miracle!
How about the captain who had the ability to land the plane without a loss of one life. AMAZING! I am so glad that this turned out the way it did...THANK YOU JESUS!
My heart sunk and I prayed that God would help the survivors. Of course, my first thought was a terrorist attack. While driving home Laurie called and told me that all the passengers survived....what a miracle!
How about the captain who had the ability to land the plane without a loss of one life. AMAZING! I am so glad that this turned out the way it did...THANK YOU JESUS!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
13 More People Show Interest In Florida Launch Team
Just wanted to let everyone know I am back in Enterprise. There was an additional 13 people that came Wednesday night. Due to the city of New Smyrna Beach policy the location must change because they don't allow repetitive use of city buildings.
Before I left I secured a building at Riviera Recreation Hall. It is located at 300 Causeway in NSB. The meeting night will change to Monday. So y'all come out on Monday for a time of fellowship.
Before I left I secured a building at Riviera Recreation Hall. It is located at 300 Causeway in NSB. The meeting night will change to Monday. So y'all come out on Monday for a time of fellowship.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Christ-Life Church New Smyrna Beach Meets Tonight!
Just a quick reminder for everyone in the Daytona/New Smyrna Beach area that Christ-Life Church will be hosting another service tonight at the Brannon Centet at 7 pm. There will be refreshments served at 6:30. If you came last week invite a friend. Everyone who has contacted us this week is invited to join us as well. Hope to see you there!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Ministry Opportunities Abound!
Just wanted to post a quick blog about some ministry opportunities that are available to all who can help....
January 24th- Christ-Life Church (Enterprise, AL)
We will be using this day to visit people in the general area of the church location. This will involve person to person ministry....just to invite folks to church, distribute food (if obtainable), and to just love on some folks
Feburary - Christ-Life Church (Daytona Beach Area)
I would like some people from Enterprise to travel to Daytona Beach area with me to help in our efforts to launch a new church. I need people that can travel the 1st & 3rd Wednesday & Thursday of Febuary.
January 31st- Homeless Connects (Dothan, AL)
Love in Action needs people who can help put together hygen packs to be given to the homeless. Homeless Connects will need assistance in doing a homeless census in our area. For info contact Ken Tuck at www.loveinactionministries.com
Febuary 7th - Eagles Nest (Atlanta, GA)
Homeless outreach to distribute blankets and feed the poor. This is a great way to get your feet wet if you have never done this sort of ministry. www.loveinactionministries.com
January 24th- Christ-Life Church (Enterprise, AL)
We will be using this day to visit people in the general area of the church location. This will involve person to person ministry....just to invite folks to church, distribute food (if obtainable), and to just love on some folks
Feburary - Christ-Life Church (Daytona Beach Area)
I would like some people from Enterprise to travel to Daytona Beach area with me to help in our efforts to launch a new church. I need people that can travel the 1st & 3rd Wednesday & Thursday of Febuary.
January 31st- Homeless Connects (Dothan, AL)
Love in Action needs people who can help put together hygen packs to be given to the homeless. Homeless Connects will need assistance in doing a homeless census in our area. For info contact Ken Tuck at www.loveinactionministries.com
Febuary 7th - Eagles Nest (Atlanta, GA)
Homeless outreach to distribute blankets and feed the poor. This is a great way to get your feet wet if you have never done this sort of ministry. www.loveinactionministries.com
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Thoughts on Purpose Driven Passion
This morning we looked at how God takes up residence in the praises of His people. That He actually moves in like moving into a house...when His named is praised. Passion for God is contagious... It spreads like wildfire touching everyone that come in contact with it.
Last week we laid a foundation that if we exalt Christ, then He will draw all people to Himself. This week we talked about God residing in the praises of His people. To be passionate it must totally be about Him.
People that lack passion for God are usually allowing that very passion to be drained by something other than what God intended. How can we stay passionate?
1) What is the focus of your existance? To keep the passion burning keep your mind on the good, great, powerful, awesome things that God has done for you. When the enemy of your soul tries to steal your joy (and he will).....fight for it! Don't let Satan drive you into the miry muck of helplessness....stand up against him! Passionate people fight for the things of God...not in our own strength but in His! When your flesh desires an intimate dance with sin....RESIST...not in your ability to resist but in His ability to see you through the temptation. STAY FOCUSED ON THE PURPOSE OF GOD TO KEEP THAT PASSION THAT DRIVES YOU!
2) What are you committed to in this life? You have to be 100% "souled" out to keep that passion alive. Commit your life to Christ...give it all to Him! Allow Him to use your life that He might live through you. I challenge you to offer all that you are and all that you have to God...RIGHT NOW! That's passsion with purpose. Here are some things you must commit to in order to keep the passion burning....r u ready...do u want the truth...can u handle the truth? Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with fresh fire (stop right here and ponder what I just said)! The Spirit will always point you to Christ. Find out specifically what God has called you to do and serve in that capacity. Obedience is greater than any sacrifices you may make along the way. Finally, I have to say it....make sure you are committed to a church that is committed to Christ. If a Christian can attend church, then they should!
Last week we laid a foundation that if we exalt Christ, then He will draw all people to Himself. This week we talked about God residing in the praises of His people. To be passionate it must totally be about Him.
People that lack passion for God are usually allowing that very passion to be drained by something other than what God intended. How can we stay passionate?
1) What is the focus of your existance? To keep the passion burning keep your mind on the good, great, powerful, awesome things that God has done for you. When the enemy of your soul tries to steal your joy (and he will).....fight for it! Don't let Satan drive you into the miry muck of helplessness....stand up against him! Passionate people fight for the things of God...not in our own strength but in His! When your flesh desires an intimate dance with sin....RESIST...not in your ability to resist but in His ability to see you through the temptation. STAY FOCUSED ON THE PURPOSE OF GOD TO KEEP THAT PASSION THAT DRIVES YOU!
2) What are you committed to in this life? You have to be 100% "souled" out to keep that passion alive. Commit your life to Christ...give it all to Him! Allow Him to use your life that He might live through you. I challenge you to offer all that you are and all that you have to God...RIGHT NOW! That's passsion with purpose. Here are some things you must commit to in order to keep the passion burning....r u ready...do u want the truth...can u handle the truth? Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with fresh fire (stop right here and ponder what I just said)! The Spirit will always point you to Christ. Find out specifically what God has called you to do and serve in that capacity. Obedience is greater than any sacrifices you may make along the way. Finally, I have to say it....make sure you are committed to a church that is committed to Christ. If a Christian can attend church, then they should!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Something Brewing in New Smyrna Beach
What an exciting week! The New Smyrna Beach campus of Christ-Life Church had its first meeting. When you step out in faith and trust God amazing things take place. We have learned that in our Enterprise campus.
My deal was that I felt it was time for NSB campus to begin its launch. By launch we are simply putting a team of 50 to 100 people that are going to be part of the most exciting church in the Daytona Beach area. I asked Shane try to get some people there....I didn't care if it was me, Justin and his family. Shane made of few phone calls, invited some people....17 PEOPLE WERE AT OUR FIRST MEETING ( any good pastor counts those little babies)!
That's right...including the already committed leaders 12 other people came out to find out about this exciting meeting. Since then we have been contacted by several people interested in the Christ-Life Church campus for the Daytona area.
My vision is see this church to make an immediate impact on the region from Oak Hill to Ormond Beach. There are over 500,000 people in the area I have targeted. We have already faced some challenges...like belly-dancers in the room we rented for our first meeting.
As always flexibility will be key til Shane secures a building. But, the folks who came out for the meeting are great people. I believe God is moving in a huge way!
As always Shane, Melody and Boaz were great hosts. Their leadership is top quality and I know God is going to use them powerfully. Please pray for the new church launch team....especially that God would bring the right people with the right heart for the style of ministry we are going to put in place.
We need worship leaders, musicians, and instrumentalist in the worst way. We are in discussions over a month to month lease on a building. Ministry is costly so pray for these immediate needs and finances. I believe if God is in this He will provide!
My deal was that I felt it was time for NSB campus to begin its launch. By launch we are simply putting a team of 50 to 100 people that are going to be part of the most exciting church in the Daytona Beach area. I asked Shane try to get some people there....I didn't care if it was me, Justin and his family. Shane made of few phone calls, invited some people....17 PEOPLE WERE AT OUR FIRST MEETING ( any good pastor counts those little babies)!
That's right...including the already committed leaders 12 other people came out to find out about this exciting meeting. Since then we have been contacted by several people interested in the Christ-Life Church campus for the Daytona area.
My vision is see this church to make an immediate impact on the region from Oak Hill to Ormond Beach. There are over 500,000 people in the area I have targeted. We have already faced some challenges...like belly-dancers in the room we rented for our first meeting.
As always flexibility will be key til Shane secures a building. But, the folks who came out for the meeting are great people. I believe God is moving in a huge way!
As always Shane, Melody and Boaz were great hosts. Their leadership is top quality and I know God is going to use them powerfully. Please pray for the new church launch team....especially that God would bring the right people with the right heart for the style of ministry we are going to put in place.
We need worship leaders, musicians, and instrumentalist in the worst way. We are in discussions over a month to month lease on a building. Ministry is costly so pray for these immediate needs and finances. I believe if God is in this He will provide!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Christ-Life Church New Smyrna Beach Campus Launches Wednesday
After years of prayer and planning Christ-Life Church will launch 01/07/2009. Pastor Shane Braucht has secured a meeting location to begin the launch process of our New Smyrna Beach campus. This Wednesday the launch team will hold its first organizational meeting and worship service at the Brannon Center in NSB at 7 pm. Fellowship will begin with coffee and sweets at 6:30.
Please pray that God will open doors and grant us blessing and favor. I know this is God's timing as I have sought this opportunity for over a decade. Please come and join us if you 
can. For information please call me at 334-389-0905.
can. For information please call me at 334-389-0905.Previous Youth Pastor Passes Away!!!
Over the past year several people have asked about Michael Spangenburg concerning his battle with cancer. About 6 years ago Michael was a youth pastor for a short while. I had lost contact wiht him for a few of those years, and recently was able to reconnect and visit him during his illness. On January 2nd Michael went to be with the Lord. He will be missed by many. Laurie and I sat behind his children during the funeral, and my heart broke for them because they have lost their daddy at such a young age. Please keep his family in your prayers. Any donations should be made to Bethany Baptist Church or Covenant Hospice per the request of his family.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Top 10 New Years Resolutions Suggestions
Today I launched a new series called Purpose Driven Passion. Things went pretty good today, but afterwards I was inspired to give a list of my top 10 suggestions for New Years Resolutions.
10. Begin a regular habit of doing daily devotions that consists of reading the Word and prayer. (I am currently reading a Proverb a day and doing a one page journal for my devotions.)
9. Quit worrying!
(Too many Christians becoming dooms-day nay-sayers.)
8. Give!
(Because "they" will tell you that you shouldn't.)
7. Destroy Your Idols
(Nothing should come between you and your God.)
6. Pray for a lost person til they get saved!!!
5. Take someone under your wing and disciple them!!
4. Quit being miserable!
(Too many Christians not having something to live for...)
3. Use your God given talents in your local church.
2. Go to Church!
(I really struggle with Christians that don't go to church)
1. LIFT HIM UP!!!
(Every second of every day)
10. Begin a regular habit of doing daily devotions that consists of reading the Word and prayer. (I am currently reading a Proverb a day and doing a one page journal for my devotions.)
9. Quit worrying!
(Too many Christians becoming dooms-day nay-sayers.)
8. Give!
(Because "they" will tell you that you shouldn't.)
7. Destroy Your Idols
(Nothing should come between you and your God.)
6. Pray for a lost person til they get saved!!!
5. Take someone under your wing and disciple them!!
4. Quit being miserable!
(Too many Christians not having something to live for...)
3. Use your God given talents in your local church.
2. Go to Church!
(I really struggle with Christians that don't go to church)
1. LIFT HIM UP!!!
(Every second of every day)
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Purpose Driven Passion
Passion...your either have it or you don't! Have you ever seen that passionate football fan that manages to be so passionate that even the television cameras are drawn to him? You know the guy who goes to a football game with no shirt on, shaves his head and paints on a football helmet, shows up early to tailgate, and forgets that it is 12 degrees below zero outside. I have always thought those guys were nuts...in reality they are...but I still admire their passion for their team.
I love to see Christians who are passionate about Christ. They are the ones who cannot wait for worship. When its time for the Word their Bibles are open and they whole-heartedly take in what is being shared. They are the ones that become teary-eyed when they think of all the people that don't know Jesus. Passionate Christians are the servants that don't have to have their voices heard. Their actions speak louder than words.
I love to see Christians who are passionate about Christ. They are the ones who cannot wait for worship. When its time for the Word their Bibles are open and they whole-heartedly take in what is being shared. They are the ones that become teary-eyed when they think of all the people that don't know Jesus. Passionate Christians are the servants that don't have to have their voices heard. Their actions speak louder than words.
Do you have passion? What is your passion driven towards? Have you exalted anything above your relationship with Christ?
Personally (and honestly), this past year just about zapped every ounce of passion I had. But by Gods grace I am still fired up for my Savior. I used to think that passion was this Charismatic frenzy of uncontrolable responses to the Holy Spirit. Passionate people will have those sorts of experiencs. But passion has become so much more! I still have those moments where just His presence brings tears to my eyes. But, through the years I have learned that truly passionate people have it when its good and they keep it when its bad. In other words, you cannot allow the challenges of life to take your passion.
Personally (and honestly), this past year just about zapped every ounce of passion I had. But by Gods grace I am still fired up for my Savior. I used to think that passion was this Charismatic frenzy of uncontrolable responses to the Holy Spirit. Passionate people will have those sorts of experiencs. But passion has become so much more! I still have those moments where just His presence brings tears to my eyes. But, through the years I have learned that truly passionate people have it when its good and they keep it when its bad. In other words, you cannot allow the challenges of life to take your passion.
Maybe you don't feel so passionate...frustrated, agitated, irritated, depressed...is more like it. Has the cares of this world taken over? Are you so occupied by the news of financial collapse and the murder of children that worry has mislead your passions? Are you drained by life? Is sin controlling your behavior? This new series is definitely for you. Be sure to be in church as we lay claim to Purpose Driven Passion!!!
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