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Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tuesday Teaching - Spiritual Gifts pt. 2
Sorry I didn't get this posted until Wednesday morning. I wanted to get you started on a Bible study this week. Its a follow up to last week...
In reading I Corinthians 12:9-10 we find five more gifts. I will call some of these gifts...the eye-brow raising gifts. These gifts have caused quite a stir in the Christian community. Some believe they exist and others explain them away. I want to make a profound statement...If a person claims to believe the entire counsel of God's Word, then you must believe it in its entirity and not pick only the parts you like.
When it comes to the phenomenon of gifts (scripture calls it the activities) it does cause quite a stir. It makes us uncomfortable. Sparking debates which range from ultra-gift usage in every service to referring to gifts in operation as the work of Satan.
Miracles are when God does something that only he can do. The task is not accomplished by natural means. It is the use of super-natural means. Our God is a super-natural God. Miracles are so numbed down today...we think if God answers a prayer its a miracle...far from it. A miracle is shaking of a poisonous snake in the fire...a miracle is walking on water...we have so dulled what we think a miracle to be that we now scoff when one truly happens. There are those in the kingdom that serve us with the gift of miracles. Our God is a God of miracles.
Prophecy is the forthtelling. Unfortunately, many hotel conference room preachers have used this as a tactic to control and manipulate people. What I believe...if you're going to say "thus sayeth the Lord" it better be God. Remember in the OT people died for falsely prophecying. They were false prophets. At the same time we cannot say the gift does not exist if scripture validates its usage. God does desire to speak to his people. Both to bless and correct.
Discerning of Spirits is the ability to sift through all the voices of people, the flesh, the Spirit and even the evil one. Discernment is a great gift to have when there is potential demonic activity involved in a situation. Also, I encourage people to talk with discerning people when trying to make a decision. A month ago I was stalking my antique booth. I always run into this family that are really out there when it comes to their supernatural beliefs. The mother of the family comes up to me saying "they got me again, I'm itching on my arm". I knew right then I did not want to be part of this discussion. She informed me that demon spirits bite her sometimes and it makes her itch. I was like get away from me. I did not discern demons biting her...I discerned horrible teaching and a bit of plain craziness working in that person.
Now, the one noone likes. Tongues! It seems to me to be the gift that causes more division than any other. Divisions for two reasons...abuse and misunderstanding. The gift of tongues is when a person speaks a language they have not formally learned. Acts chapter 2 was the gift of tongues in action. Many churches abuse this gift (along with a few others) making some church services seem like a freak show. I have seen well meaning people totally misapply and misuse tongues. On the other hand, I have seen legalism try to apply rules that aren't anywhere near what scripture implies. Once again you have to take the whole counsel of God's Word. Criptic scriptures are the basis of heresy.
The interpretation of tongues is when a person hears what is spoken in tongues and either understands or gives the message in a known tongue. Nowhere do I find that the sole validation of tongues requires an interpreter. I know what Paul said...and I agree...but what about the rest of what Paul said. Singing in the spirit, speaking in tongues more than y'all do, five words understood than ten thousand not understood...we have to look at it all in context.
Well, I anticipate a stir. Yet I feel I have a good grasp on the "eye-brow raising" gifts. What are your thoughts...post them if you would like.
In reading I Corinthians 12:9-10 we find five more gifts. I will call some of these gifts...the eye-brow raising gifts. These gifts have caused quite a stir in the Christian community. Some believe they exist and others explain them away. I want to make a profound statement...If a person claims to believe the entire counsel of God's Word, then you must believe it in its entirity and not pick only the parts you like.
When it comes to the phenomenon of gifts (scripture calls it the activities) it does cause quite a stir. It makes us uncomfortable. Sparking debates which range from ultra-gift usage in every service to referring to gifts in operation as the work of Satan.
Miracles are when God does something that only he can do. The task is not accomplished by natural means. It is the use of super-natural means. Our God is a super-natural God. Miracles are so numbed down today...we think if God answers a prayer its a miracle...far from it. A miracle is shaking of a poisonous snake in the fire...a miracle is walking on water...we have so dulled what we think a miracle to be that we now scoff when one truly happens. There are those in the kingdom that serve us with the gift of miracles. Our God is a God of miracles.
Prophecy is the forthtelling. Unfortunately, many hotel conference room preachers have used this as a tactic to control and manipulate people. What I believe...if you're going to say "thus sayeth the Lord" it better be God. Remember in the OT people died for falsely prophecying. They were false prophets. At the same time we cannot say the gift does not exist if scripture validates its usage. God does desire to speak to his people. Both to bless and correct.
Discerning of Spirits is the ability to sift through all the voices of people, the flesh, the Spirit and even the evil one. Discernment is a great gift to have when there is potential demonic activity involved in a situation. Also, I encourage people to talk with discerning people when trying to make a decision. A month ago I was stalking my antique booth. I always run into this family that are really out there when it comes to their supernatural beliefs. The mother of the family comes up to me saying "they got me again, I'm itching on my arm". I knew right then I did not want to be part of this discussion. She informed me that demon spirits bite her sometimes and it makes her itch. I was like get away from me. I did not discern demons biting her...I discerned horrible teaching and a bit of plain craziness working in that person.
Now, the one noone likes. Tongues! It seems to me to be the gift that causes more division than any other. Divisions for two reasons...abuse and misunderstanding. The gift of tongues is when a person speaks a language they have not formally learned. Acts chapter 2 was the gift of tongues in action. Many churches abuse this gift (along with a few others) making some church services seem like a freak show. I have seen well meaning people totally misapply and misuse tongues. On the other hand, I have seen legalism try to apply rules that aren't anywhere near what scripture implies. Once again you have to take the whole counsel of God's Word. Criptic scriptures are the basis of heresy.
The interpretation of tongues is when a person hears what is spoken in tongues and either understands or gives the message in a known tongue. Nowhere do I find that the sole validation of tongues requires an interpreter. I know what Paul said...and I agree...but what about the rest of what Paul said. Singing in the spirit, speaking in tongues more than y'all do, five words understood than ten thousand not understood...we have to look at it all in context.
Well, I anticipate a stir. Yet I feel I have a good grasp on the "eye-brow raising" gifts. What are your thoughts...post them if you would like.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Love In Action Ministries - CHARITY AUCTION
I would like to invite everyone out to the Love In Action Ministries auction. Jerry Edding has put together a good selection of bargains to be had. There is something for everybody. Bikes for the kids. Antiques for the collectors. Some items will be sold by the box full...never know what you might find in those boxes. And everything in between.
You can view the itmes tomorrow, June 19, beginning at 8 AM. The actual auction begins at 10 AM. 100% of money raised will go towards the ministry efforts of Love in Action. For more information about Love in Action visit their website www.loveinactionministries.com
You can view the itmes tomorrow, June 19, beginning at 8 AM. The actual auction begins at 10 AM. 100% of money raised will go towards the ministry efforts of Love in Action. For more information about Love in Action visit their website www.loveinactionministries.com
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Tuesday Teaching - Spiritual Gifts
We have been doing a section on spiritual gifts during our Spirit-Life series. I would like to start doing Bible studies for our church and anyone who would like to join every Tuesday. It will be available all week...just an added opportunity for those who may be having difficulty getting in the Word during the week.
Todays text is:
1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (New King James Version)
(remember pray and ask God to guide via the Holy Spirit...then read slowly)
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: 2 You know that[a] you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same[b] Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
What jumps out at you? (think on this for just a moment)
The context is Paul writing to the Corinthian church because of their misuse and abuse of spiritual gifts. He is also trying to keep a sense of unity within the fellowship of believers.
My primary goal is to expose you to the gifts God gives His followers so they can serve one another. Do you see your gifting in this list? If not that's okay there are gifts listed in other passages that may fit you better.
FYI: If you are not sure what your gifting is there are tons of spiritual gift tests online. Also, talk to some of the leaders in your church and ask where you could help. It could be that you will find a place to serve that you really enjoy...if you don't like it..just be honest and ask if there is another ministry opportunity you may enjoy.
For churches to grow in number and maturity it requires all believers to take pride in their church and get behind the overall vision by serving with the talents that God has given them by the Spirit. If you want to be a stronger Christian I have a strong conviction that you need to be involved in your local church. NOT JUST SHOWING UP ON SUNDAY WHEN YOU CAN MAKE IT!
Real quick answer these three questions:
1. How are you serving God with your time?
2. How are you serving God with your treasure?
3. How are you serving God with your talent?
Todays text is:
1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (New King James Version)
(remember pray and ask God to guide via the Holy Spirit...then read slowly)
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: 2 You know that[a] you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same[b] Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
What jumps out at you? (think on this for just a moment)
The context is Paul writing to the Corinthian church because of their misuse and abuse of spiritual gifts. He is also trying to keep a sense of unity within the fellowship of believers.
My primary goal is to expose you to the gifts God gives His followers so they can serve one another. Do you see your gifting in this list? If not that's okay there are gifts listed in other passages that may fit you better.
FYI: If you are not sure what your gifting is there are tons of spiritual gift tests online. Also, talk to some of the leaders in your church and ask where you could help. It could be that you will find a place to serve that you really enjoy...if you don't like it..just be honest and ask if there is another ministry opportunity you may enjoy.
For churches to grow in number and maturity it requires all believers to take pride in their church and get behind the overall vision by serving with the talents that God has given them by the Spirit. If you want to be a stronger Christian I have a strong conviction that you need to be involved in your local church. NOT JUST SHOWING UP ON SUNDAY WHEN YOU CAN MAKE IT!
Real quick answer these three questions:
1. How are you serving God with your time?
2. How are you serving God with your treasure?
3. How are you serving God with your talent?
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Quit Blaming The Other Guy!
The other night while flipping through the channels I came acrossed the Bill Maher show. Let me start by saying Mr. Maher is not one I care to watch very often, but I stopped because he was talking about the oil spill. I forget who his co-host was...someone from CNN. Regardless, they were talking about how people were criticizing President Obama for his lack of response to the oil crisis. They made some points I agreed with, and then they did something that as a leader turns my stomach. They spent the next 30 minutes complaining about what George Bush would have done if this oil crisis would have occurred on his watch. If you would have listened you would think that President Bush was the real problem with the oil crisis.
I am not on the Barack Obama hater train. Personally, I would like to meet him as he and I have alot of similar interests. With that said there are many policies I don't like, nor do I agree with. Yet, I pray for him...I don't want harm to come to him...he seems to be a real family man (time will show if thats true).
There is one critical point that I cannot stand about the Obama administration. He and his team constantly blame George Bush for everything that is not going the way they would like it to go. Evil businesses...W's fault! Health care....W's fault! Budget problems...W's fault! Financial problems...because of the previous eight years! You get my point.
As leaders just because we face opposition, overwhelming difficulties, and even challenges left over from the last guy quit blaming him/her for your current inabilities to accomplish certain goals. I know its frustrating. You may even have a legitimate complaint. But, you still have to lead...quit whining! Take the opportunity you have been given and make it better. Quit blaming the other guy!
I beleive it was Laura Bush who gave her son, President George Bush, some great advice. Don't talk bad about the previous administration. I never heard him make a critical comment about the Clintons...he seemed to show them deep respect and appreciation.
Upon coming to Enterprise I followed a man that this church loved. Family circumstances put a real damper on his ministry credability. I determined I was not going to say bad things about the previous pastor. Even though there were some not so theological messages preached and financial calamity was pending...I found he had some of the greatest people on the planet in his church and there was a reason they came to the church that he lead. The men of the church loved him...and by the way when I came they informed me but never once did they belittle the previous pastor.
I decided we are not blaming...we need to restore the church's reputation and grow. For the most part we accomplished those goals. By the way, the previous leader was and is still well respected through-out the community. For the past ten years if I didn't have something nice to say...I didn't say anything.
Unfortunately, over the past couple years, I wasted valuable energy blaming an organization and its leader (oh yeah its board ... that doesn't exist) for putting me through a living hell. Those who know me in the community understand, support and agree with my public protest concerning what happened to our church. Even if I did get a little out of control.
Today, is different. Forgiveness has been granted and whatever happens in our fellowship (in regard to leadership) is up to me. I cann't blame Word of Life, youth pastors gone bad, worship leaders that I don't see eye to eye with, members that leave, or even the devil. We have been given a chance to start fresh and where we go is where I lead...success or failure its on me!
I am not on the Barack Obama hater train. Personally, I would like to meet him as he and I have alot of similar interests. With that said there are many policies I don't like, nor do I agree with. Yet, I pray for him...I don't want harm to come to him...he seems to be a real family man (time will show if thats true).
There is one critical point that I cannot stand about the Obama administration. He and his team constantly blame George Bush for everything that is not going the way they would like it to go. Evil businesses...W's fault! Health care....W's fault! Budget problems...W's fault! Financial problems...because of the previous eight years! You get my point.
As leaders just because we face opposition, overwhelming difficulties, and even challenges left over from the last guy quit blaming him/her for your current inabilities to accomplish certain goals. I know its frustrating. You may even have a legitimate complaint. But, you still have to lead...quit whining! Take the opportunity you have been given and make it better. Quit blaming the other guy!
I beleive it was Laura Bush who gave her son, President George Bush, some great advice. Don't talk bad about the previous administration. I never heard him make a critical comment about the Clintons...he seemed to show them deep respect and appreciation.
Upon coming to Enterprise I followed a man that this church loved. Family circumstances put a real damper on his ministry credability. I determined I was not going to say bad things about the previous pastor. Even though there were some not so theological messages preached and financial calamity was pending...I found he had some of the greatest people on the planet in his church and there was a reason they came to the church that he lead. The men of the church loved him...and by the way when I came they informed me but never once did they belittle the previous pastor.
I decided we are not blaming...we need to restore the church's reputation and grow. For the most part we accomplished those goals. By the way, the previous leader was and is still well respected through-out the community. For the past ten years if I didn't have something nice to say...I didn't say anything.
Unfortunately, over the past couple years, I wasted valuable energy blaming an organization and its leader (oh yeah its board ... that doesn't exist) for putting me through a living hell. Those who know me in the community understand, support and agree with my public protest concerning what happened to our church. Even if I did get a little out of control.
Today, is different. Forgiveness has been granted and whatever happens in our fellowship (in regard to leadership) is up to me. I cann't blame Word of Life, youth pastors gone bad, worship leaders that I don't see eye to eye with, members that leave, or even the devil. We have been given a chance to start fresh and where we go is where I lead...success or failure its on me!
Monday, May 17, 2010
FIRE!!!
Recently, I have felt God calling me away to a time of prayer. I know we should be praying all the time, but there are times that it seems the voice of God whispers (very persistantly) come run with Me! Over the years I have come to realize those have become monumental turning points...advancements...or whatever you want to call them.
Some of you may remember a series I preached called The Outpouring...that was the result of the last time I specifically felt God call me to a time of prayer like He is calling me to, right now!
We have a good church...but I'm ready to see it become great. I believe our fellowship has the ability to begin something that can be an example for churches all over the world. Over the years we have kept one passion that I am so thankful for...we have kept it all about Christ and people coming to know Him.
Yesterday, I continued the series call Spirit-Life...it isn't going anything like I anticipated. That's okay! I just want God glorified, the saints encouraged, and Jesus saving people. I preached from Acts 1:5 where Jesus referred to John the Baptist and reminded the disciples that he told them that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit and FIRE!
I encouraged our church to becomed immersed in the Spirit of God. I never want to become so programmed, so technologically dependent, so culturally relevant that we lose the power of the Spirit in our services or every day life.
I am ready to see the FIRE burn in our community. I don't believe God gave us a building and a fresh start just to gather the same old folks together so we can have church. If that's the case...I pray God has an exit strategy for me! Don't get me wrong I love Christ Life, but I don't believe for one second that God called us to be a church of 100 people. I truly believe we can grow to 1,000 if we will now take the FIRE God has started and let it spread. The FIRE may be hard to contain once it gets going...but I think I'm ready for WILD FIRE if that what it takes!
My prayer...God let the wind blow and let this FIRE spread!
Some of you may remember a series I preached called The Outpouring...that was the result of the last time I specifically felt God call me to a time of prayer like He is calling me to, right now!
We have a good church...but I'm ready to see it become great. I believe our fellowship has the ability to begin something that can be an example for churches all over the world. Over the years we have kept one passion that I am so thankful for...we have kept it all about Christ and people coming to know Him.
Yesterday, I continued the series call Spirit-Life...it isn't going anything like I anticipated. That's okay! I just want God glorified, the saints encouraged, and Jesus saving people. I preached from Acts 1:5 where Jesus referred to John the Baptist and reminded the disciples that he told them that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit and FIRE!
I encouraged our church to becomed immersed in the Spirit of God. I never want to become so programmed, so technologically dependent, so culturally relevant that we lose the power of the Spirit in our services or every day life.
I am ready to see the FIRE burn in our community. I don't believe God gave us a building and a fresh start just to gather the same old folks together so we can have church. If that's the case...I pray God has an exit strategy for me! Don't get me wrong I love Christ Life, but I don't believe for one second that God called us to be a church of 100 people. I truly believe we can grow to 1,000 if we will now take the FIRE God has started and let it spread. The FIRE may be hard to contain once it gets going...but I think I'm ready for WILD FIRE if that what it takes!
My prayer...God let the wind blow and let this FIRE spread!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Growth & Diversity
One of the traits that has seemed to mark our ministry is that of diversity. For over 20 years that has been a comment given to me by many people. Any given week at Christ Life our seats are filled with a smorgasboard of different backgrounds. It blesses me that in our services there are homeless being ministered to by others that make six digit incomes. The ethnic diversity is a lesson in and of itself as approximately 30% of our fellowship are minorities (I don't like using that word). We have city folk (not Enterprise people-I mean New York City) and we have country folk (once again not Enterprise-I'm talking people who are proud members of crossroads communities). Heck, we have someone from Africa!
One of the things I am really honored by...is the denominational diversity. I know that would be scary for you hardliners, that is, accepting others that don't think just like you. But, it has been refreshing! I love to hear a good ... AMEN! Especially, if I'm preaching good! I hate to hear AMEN when I say "in conclusion".
Seriously, as I woke up this morning I was thinking about the distinctively different Christian backgrounds at Christ Life. I have seen people from one back ground stand wide-eyed and staring as others from another background worshipped. Not that it is out of control, but you put different denominations in one of our worship services and there distinctiveness comes out. Some have never seen the words posted on the wall...while others have never seen a red back hymnal.
I gotta tell you something funny about two of the families that has joined our church in the past couple months. One is from a Baptist background...and the other from a Pentecostal background. They are both precious...they are both proud to be part of what is happening at Christ Life...and they are both very different in the way they express their worship. My pentecostal friends were letting out a little shout...even had a little bounce during worship...it was really awesome as the fellow from the Baptist background reached over, tapped his son...I didn't need to hear what he said he was pointing and they were locked on...both families came afterward and commented how much they enjoyed service.
I know as alot of people try to reach a particular segment of society I find great joy in diversity. Just to let you know...at the beginning of 2010 we had maybe 25 people that I know counted Christ Life as their church...its April and I can easily count over 100 that look to Christ Life as their place of worship. And the diversity would amaze you! I thank God for each and every person that is a part of Christ Life ..rich...poor...black...white...hispanic...Baptist...Liturgical...Pentecostal...we even have a few heathens...I love you all.
One of the things I am really honored by...is the denominational diversity. I know that would be scary for you hardliners, that is, accepting others that don't think just like you. But, it has been refreshing! I love to hear a good ... AMEN! Especially, if I'm preaching good! I hate to hear AMEN when I say "in conclusion".
Seriously, as I woke up this morning I was thinking about the distinctively different Christian backgrounds at Christ Life. I have seen people from one back ground stand wide-eyed and staring as others from another background worshipped. Not that it is out of control, but you put different denominations in one of our worship services and there distinctiveness comes out. Some have never seen the words posted on the wall...while others have never seen a red back hymnal.
I gotta tell you something funny about two of the families that has joined our church in the past couple months. One is from a Baptist background...and the other from a Pentecostal background. They are both precious...they are both proud to be part of what is happening at Christ Life...and they are both very different in the way they express their worship. My pentecostal friends were letting out a little shout...even had a little bounce during worship...it was really awesome as the fellow from the Baptist background reached over, tapped his son...I didn't need to hear what he said he was pointing and they were locked on...both families came afterward and commented how much they enjoyed service.
I know as alot of people try to reach a particular segment of society I find great joy in diversity. Just to let you know...at the beginning of 2010 we had maybe 25 people that I know counted Christ Life as their church...its April and I can easily count over 100 that look to Christ Life as their place of worship. And the diversity would amaze you! I thank God for each and every person that is a part of Christ Life ..rich...poor...black...white...hispanic...Baptist...Liturgical...Pentecostal...we even have a few heathens...I love you all.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Stories of Grace con't
Just a reminder that we are talking about Stories of Grace. It never fails...anytime I teach on grace...someone who grew up in the church is blessed because they never heard messages about God's grace.
Makes you wonder how they came to Christ if they never heard messages on grace!? Regardless, there is nothing you can do to earn your way to heaven. Jesus paid the price for our sins, and it is God's free gift.
Tomorrow I will be talking about Grace for the Disgraced. Who do you know that has really gone down the wrong road? Invite them to church!
Prostitutes, pimps, pushers, pill heads, crooked cops, lying lawyers, fallen preachers, and the like...invite all you know...God loves them, too!
Oh yeah, set your clock ahead so you dont miss church!
Makes you wonder how they came to Christ if they never heard messages on grace!? Regardless, there is nothing you can do to earn your way to heaven. Jesus paid the price for our sins, and it is God's free gift.
Tomorrow I will be talking about Grace for the Disgraced. Who do you know that has really gone down the wrong road? Invite them to church!
Prostitutes, pimps, pushers, pill heads, crooked cops, lying lawyers, fallen preachers, and the like...invite all you know...God loves them, too!
Oh yeah, set your clock ahead so you dont miss church!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
How to Strengthen the Church One Believer At A Time!
Whether you have been serving Jesus for decades, or if you find yourself new to the faith you can help strengthen the church as a whole. Over the years I have realized there are some common threads that runs through vibrant, healthy, growing churches. And, I believe if the individual believer can implement these five pillars they will strengthen themselves...thus strengthening the local church...which strengthens the body of Christ.
There are Five Pillars of Strength every beliver should practice, and every local should offer to those involved. Teach these principles and watch what happens!
PILLAR I: Prayer! Prayer is where we tap into the power of God. Act 2 the disciples gathered in the Upper Room...the power of God falls...thousands come to Christ! Prayer brings power!
PILLAR II: Worship! Worship is the time we most often encounter Gods presence. Scripture declares that God lives in the praises of His people. Worship helps develop intimacy with God.
PILLAR III: Word! Faith is built as we learn the Word of God! Get in the Word on a regular basis.
PILLAR IV: Fellowship! We need each other! I have found that healthy churches create opportunities to develop healthy Christian relationships.
PILLAR V: Involvement! God has given each of us a gift that we may utilize to serve within the body of Christ. Every believer should be involved in some aspect of the ministy of the local church.
There are Five Pillars of Strength every beliver should practice, and every local should offer to those involved. Teach these principles and watch what happens!
PILLAR I: Prayer! Prayer is where we tap into the power of God. Act 2 the disciples gathered in the Upper Room...the power of God falls...thousands come to Christ! Prayer brings power!
PILLAR II: Worship! Worship is the time we most often encounter Gods presence. Scripture declares that God lives in the praises of His people. Worship helps develop intimacy with God.
PILLAR III: Word! Faith is built as we learn the Word of God! Get in the Word on a regular basis.
PILLAR IV: Fellowship! We need each other! I have found that healthy churches create opportunities to develop healthy Christian relationships.
PILLAR V: Involvement! God has given each of us a gift that we may utilize to serve within the body of Christ. Every believer should be involved in some aspect of the ministy of the local church.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Adultry & Abuse ... part 2
Wow...time slipped away. Been crazy busy, but productive. I wanted to allow myself the opportunity to make a few more remarks in regards to the serious topics of adultry and abuse.
My last blog dealt with issues of adultry. Now I would like to make a few comments regarding abuse.
Abuse is a real problem in many relationships today. This is intended as a marital topic, but abuse effects children, elderly people, the dating relationship, employee relations, and the list could go on.
Ephesians 5 tells us to "love our wives like Christ loved the church" and for "wives to respect their husbands". That's hard to do when abuse enters the picture. I have seen many marriages end at the hands of adultry, and I have seen too many spouses suffer torment at the hands of an abuser for years.
Abuse is not just physical! But, lets start there...I say it loud and proud...your not much of a man if you beat a woman! Unfortunately, culture has come to a place where many women are the agressors. I have literally seen guys cry at the thought of facing his wifes abusive wrath. If there is physical abuse in your marriage...you must seek help and safety. There is no justifiable reason for you to allow physical abuse to continue. Even if it means removing yourself from the same home...filing restraints...whatever...do not let someone continue to torment you through acts of violence.
Some people are feeble from years of mental or emotional abuse handed out to them by the one who claims to love them. Lying, manipulating, insecure, jealous, control freaks will often fall into this category. If you suffer mental and emotional abuse its probably because you are married to someone who is mentally unstable. Mental abuse can lead to physical torment!
Verbal abuse is as cruel as any abuse discussed. Women are called fat, unattractive, whores, sluts, worthless, b*@#h, and more defeating words by their insanely abusive husbands. Men are ridiculed, put down, disrespected, lied to, lied about at the hands of their darling wives. I have seen so much verbal abuse that it angers me to even write about it.
Sexual abuse can and does happen within the marriage. This sort of abuse is very diverse. On one hand, it can be a woman who deprives her husband of sex until she gets what she wants...new car, checkbook, new clothes, jewelry...or she may incorporate the lack of sex into her mental abuse. On the other hand, is a man who may be so animalistic in his sexual desires that he will force unwanted sex on his spouse. Or, make her do things she doesn't want to do with him and sometimes with others.
I have heard some horror stories over the years. Beautiful women neglected by men and made to feel ugly...good men taken advantage of by deceptive women. By remaining with an abusive spouse only enables them to continue in their abusive ways. Until the abused begins to resist there will not be any sort of wholesome change. Please don't think you are doing them or God a favor by staying with them! If you are being abused in any way here are some practical steps:
1. If you fear for your safety (and the safety of others) you must expose their abuse by getting the proper authorities involved.
2. If necessary, move out until they get the help they need! God can help those who abuse others, but they must seek the help they need!
3. Get professional counselling and encourage your spouse to do the same. Get the medical community involved as meds can really work at times! A counselor can help you develop a plan.
4. Do not allow yourself to feel sorry for the abuser..they feed on that sort of thing...its giving them the upper hand. You can be compassionate without being an enabler! Be courageous stick to your plan!
5. Reconciliation must include long term (years) accountability. Forgiveness can and should be granted, but trust must be earned!
I am not a counselor, but there are times I wish I could have just told people get out of that marriage before someone gets killed...namely you! I have never encouraged divorce, and I hope I never do! But, the longer I am in ministry...the more abuse I observe...the more my opinion has become that you do not have to stay and allow the abuser to destroy who you are. The problem is...those who are abused as children will often gravitate towards abusive spouses (especially women).
If you are in an abusive relationship...seek safety and the help of others. I hope this helps.
In Christ,
Mike
My last blog dealt with issues of adultry. Now I would like to make a few comments regarding abuse.
Abuse is a real problem in many relationships today. This is intended as a marital topic, but abuse effects children, elderly people, the dating relationship, employee relations, and the list could go on.
Ephesians 5 tells us to "love our wives like Christ loved the church" and for "wives to respect their husbands". That's hard to do when abuse enters the picture. I have seen many marriages end at the hands of adultry, and I have seen too many spouses suffer torment at the hands of an abuser for years.
Abuse is not just physical! But, lets start there...I say it loud and proud...your not much of a man if you beat a woman! Unfortunately, culture has come to a place where many women are the agressors. I have literally seen guys cry at the thought of facing his wifes abusive wrath. If there is physical abuse in your marriage...you must seek help and safety. There is no justifiable reason for you to allow physical abuse to continue. Even if it means removing yourself from the same home...filing restraints...whatever...do not let someone continue to torment you through acts of violence.
Some people are feeble from years of mental or emotional abuse handed out to them by the one who claims to love them. Lying, manipulating, insecure, jealous, control freaks will often fall into this category. If you suffer mental and emotional abuse its probably because you are married to someone who is mentally unstable. Mental abuse can lead to physical torment!
Verbal abuse is as cruel as any abuse discussed. Women are called fat, unattractive, whores, sluts, worthless, b*@#h, and more defeating words by their insanely abusive husbands. Men are ridiculed, put down, disrespected, lied to, lied about at the hands of their darling wives. I have seen so much verbal abuse that it angers me to even write about it.
Sexual abuse can and does happen within the marriage. This sort of abuse is very diverse. On one hand, it can be a woman who deprives her husband of sex until she gets what she wants...new car, checkbook, new clothes, jewelry...or she may incorporate the lack of sex into her mental abuse. On the other hand, is a man who may be so animalistic in his sexual desires that he will force unwanted sex on his spouse. Or, make her do things she doesn't want to do with him and sometimes with others.
I have heard some horror stories over the years. Beautiful women neglected by men and made to feel ugly...good men taken advantage of by deceptive women. By remaining with an abusive spouse only enables them to continue in their abusive ways. Until the abused begins to resist there will not be any sort of wholesome change. Please don't think you are doing them or God a favor by staying with them! If you are being abused in any way here are some practical steps:
1. If you fear for your safety (and the safety of others) you must expose their abuse by getting the proper authorities involved.
2. If necessary, move out until they get the help they need! God can help those who abuse others, but they must seek the help they need!
3. Get professional counselling and encourage your spouse to do the same. Get the medical community involved as meds can really work at times! A counselor can help you develop a plan.
4. Do not allow yourself to feel sorry for the abuser..they feed on that sort of thing...its giving them the upper hand. You can be compassionate without being an enabler! Be courageous stick to your plan!
5. Reconciliation must include long term (years) accountability. Forgiveness can and should be granted, but trust must be earned!
I am not a counselor, but there are times I wish I could have just told people get out of that marriage before someone gets killed...namely you! I have never encouraged divorce, and I hope I never do! But, the longer I am in ministry...the more abuse I observe...the more my opinion has become that you do not have to stay and allow the abuser to destroy who you are. The problem is...those who are abused as children will often gravitate towards abusive spouses (especially women).
If you are in an abusive relationship...seek safety and the help of others. I hope this helps.
In Christ,
Mike
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Adultery & Abuse ... part 1
This past week I shared a message about building marital trust. As always time slipped away and there were some thoughts I wanted to work in but just never found the angle. So, I thought I should at least blog about them because there are people who are suffering through some nearly impossible situations in their marriages.
I guess being in ministry for over 20 years has made me keenly aware of marital problems brought on by both adultery and abuse. Obviously, scripture teaches us that divorce can be granted in the case of marital infidelity. On the other hand, I have not found it so cut and dry when dealing with abuse. Abuse is in direct violation of Ephesians 5:22-33 and will make it difficult to have true peace in the home. In today’s blog, I want to reach out to those who are in marriages that have been scarred by the wounds of unfaithfulness and malicious acts.
Let me start with adultery. That's easy to identify. When either the husband or the wife has sex with another person that is adultery. And most of the time ends in divorce! Adultery is probably the most painful thing I have had to walk people through in my 40 years of living. The person you love the most on the planet...surrenders the most intimate act God has given to a couple to another person. What an act of betrayal!
I have found it just as painful for both men and women. Men suffer because their tough, macho image is now at risk. Men view sex differently than women. Guys are aroused by sight and the build up of testosterone. They need affirmation that they are the king of the jungle. And much like a lion, they feel utter defeat when another male lion enters their territorial marks. Men want to know they are big enough (sorry for the blatant honesty) and good at what they do.
Husbands have heart breaking questions that they have to have answered when adultery occurs. I have heard men ask...Where? How often? What was he like? Did you orgasm? Was he better than me? Was he bigger than me? To be honest, in every conversation I have had with a man who has been cheated upon the last question seems to come up. I am not saying it's the main issue, but in the male mind it is an attempt to regain the male macho image of himself. He usually brings it up jokingly.
Men don't deal with the emotional effects of adultery very well. The image of his wife having sex with another man is absolute torment. The respect their wives are commanded to give by scripture has been thrown out the window. Honestly, its usually emotional reasons why women cheat. Not enough attention at home, no sense of security, a lack of verbal communication, sex is just sex...it's not love making...no caressing...no foreplay...no real intimacy...just take your clothes off because it's what I want, selfish maleness.
I have found when a woman cheats the marriage is usually over because she has lost respect for her husband and felt it's time to move on. On the other hand, women handle the news of unfaithfulness different than men. As I said before, men and women both hurt tremendously, but they handle things entirely different. Unlike the man who will totally collapse and the world will know. Women seem to hold the moment of confrontation to a more private moment. She may cry in private until she and her husband can mutually stop long enough to put all the cards on the table.
The emotional issues surface first. Unlike the man...a wife wants to know what she did wrong to cause her husband to seek the arms of another woman. Wasn't my cooking good enough, what about the kids, how will I tell my parents, we're going to talk to the pastor. Women will involve all important critical parties because of damage control. She will often let the kids know there is a problem, but will protect them from the fear of their family falling apart.
I have never heard a woman concerned about the size of certain body parts. But, I do know women have body parts enlarged more often than men (in all the times I have talked about marriage that’s the first time I have made that connection). Only concerned that maybe she wasn't attractive enough. Maybe, she let herself go so he sought out a better looking woman. Honestly, men who are cheaters will usually cheat any chance they get...even with a less attractive woman. That's why women will refer to cheaters as dogs!
The pressing issue of an offended wife is the need to know if there is an emotional connection to the other woman. Do you love her? Do you still love me? And, her friends will get involved! Men go it alone after the initial melt down...women gather...and gather...and gather. I have found that women will confront other women more often than men will confront other men.
Women sift through the emotions much better than men in my opinion. The one good thing, if there is a good thing in the messes that adultery creates, I have seen more marriages survive when the husband cheats than when the wife cheats. Because, men who cheat usually aren't looking for anything other than sex. They probably can't make that relationship work either...so they will come back. And, women will seemingly offer another chance.
Finally, don't be dooped into thinking that intercourse is the only act of unfaithfulness. I will never forget the Monica Lewinsky drama. Even though Bill Clinton didn't feel like he was committing adultery, he was...oral sex with other people is sex with other people. That's why it is called oral sex! So you better know what is, is!
People have emotional affairs all the time. Physical touching may never occur, but emotionally you may be seeing someone else. Its called fantasizing!
I will never forget while in Bible college several of us young pastors were discussing whether we would rather live in the Old Testament or New Testament. One of the older men, who had come back from pastoring to get a degree, made an unforgetful comment. He said, " I would rather live in the Old Testament. The only requirement was that I could not commit adultery. In the New Testament, Jesus said, "If we even look at a woman with lust we have committed adultery in our hearts." Even hard looking can get us in trouble.
I believe adultery does not have to be the end of the marriage. But, it will take lots of counseling and accountability to restore trust and all the other emotional hurts involved. A couple of thoughts in conclusion....
* Forgiveness is God's way of dealing with sinful acts. If you choose to forgive and heal the marriage, it cannot be brought up at every given moment and inopportune time.
* Do not try to control or manipulate the guilty party by reminding them of what they did (don't throw in their face) because that could push them over the edge, again.
* Forgiveness is not the regranting of trust. Trust must be earned through an accountability process and proven track record. Keep in mind if they messed up once, they can do it again.
I do pray that your marriage will never be wounded by the dagger of adultery. In the event it has, I encourage you to trust the situation into the hands of God. He is concerned about your hurts. You can trust God with your marriage, your hurts, emotional issues and everything involved in your situation.
I guess being in ministry for over 20 years has made me keenly aware of marital problems brought on by both adultery and abuse. Obviously, scripture teaches us that divorce can be granted in the case of marital infidelity. On the other hand, I have not found it so cut and dry when dealing with abuse. Abuse is in direct violation of Ephesians 5:22-33 and will make it difficult to have true peace in the home. In today’s blog, I want to reach out to those who are in marriages that have been scarred by the wounds of unfaithfulness and malicious acts.
Let me start with adultery. That's easy to identify. When either the husband or the wife has sex with another person that is adultery. And most of the time ends in divorce! Adultery is probably the most painful thing I have had to walk people through in my 40 years of living. The person you love the most on the planet...surrenders the most intimate act God has given to a couple to another person. What an act of betrayal!
I have found it just as painful for both men and women. Men suffer because their tough, macho image is now at risk. Men view sex differently than women. Guys are aroused by sight and the build up of testosterone. They need affirmation that they are the king of the jungle. And much like a lion, they feel utter defeat when another male lion enters their territorial marks. Men want to know they are big enough (sorry for the blatant honesty) and good at what they do.
Husbands have heart breaking questions that they have to have answered when adultery occurs. I have heard men ask...Where? How often? What was he like? Did you orgasm? Was he better than me? Was he bigger than me? To be honest, in every conversation I have had with a man who has been cheated upon the last question seems to come up. I am not saying it's the main issue, but in the male mind it is an attempt to regain the male macho image of himself. He usually brings it up jokingly.
Men don't deal with the emotional effects of adultery very well. The image of his wife having sex with another man is absolute torment. The respect their wives are commanded to give by scripture has been thrown out the window. Honestly, its usually emotional reasons why women cheat. Not enough attention at home, no sense of security, a lack of verbal communication, sex is just sex...it's not love making...no caressing...no foreplay...no real intimacy...just take your clothes off because it's what I want, selfish maleness.
I have found when a woman cheats the marriage is usually over because she has lost respect for her husband and felt it's time to move on. On the other hand, women handle the news of unfaithfulness different than men. As I said before, men and women both hurt tremendously, but they handle things entirely different. Unlike the man who will totally collapse and the world will know. Women seem to hold the moment of confrontation to a more private moment. She may cry in private until she and her husband can mutually stop long enough to put all the cards on the table.
The emotional issues surface first. Unlike the man...a wife wants to know what she did wrong to cause her husband to seek the arms of another woman. Wasn't my cooking good enough, what about the kids, how will I tell my parents, we're going to talk to the pastor. Women will involve all important critical parties because of damage control. She will often let the kids know there is a problem, but will protect them from the fear of their family falling apart.
I have never heard a woman concerned about the size of certain body parts. But, I do know women have body parts enlarged more often than men (in all the times I have talked about marriage that’s the first time I have made that connection). Only concerned that maybe she wasn't attractive enough. Maybe, she let herself go so he sought out a better looking woman. Honestly, men who are cheaters will usually cheat any chance they get...even with a less attractive woman. That's why women will refer to cheaters as dogs!
The pressing issue of an offended wife is the need to know if there is an emotional connection to the other woman. Do you love her? Do you still love me? And, her friends will get involved! Men go it alone after the initial melt down...women gather...and gather...and gather. I have found that women will confront other women more often than men will confront other men.
Women sift through the emotions much better than men in my opinion. The one good thing, if there is a good thing in the messes that adultery creates, I have seen more marriages survive when the husband cheats than when the wife cheats. Because, men who cheat usually aren't looking for anything other than sex. They probably can't make that relationship work either...so they will come back. And, women will seemingly offer another chance.
Finally, don't be dooped into thinking that intercourse is the only act of unfaithfulness. I will never forget the Monica Lewinsky drama. Even though Bill Clinton didn't feel like he was committing adultery, he was...oral sex with other people is sex with other people. That's why it is called oral sex! So you better know what is, is!
People have emotional affairs all the time. Physical touching may never occur, but emotionally you may be seeing someone else. Its called fantasizing!
I will never forget while in Bible college several of us young pastors were discussing whether we would rather live in the Old Testament or New Testament. One of the older men, who had come back from pastoring to get a degree, made an unforgetful comment. He said, " I would rather live in the Old Testament. The only requirement was that I could not commit adultery. In the New Testament, Jesus said, "If we even look at a woman with lust we have committed adultery in our hearts." Even hard looking can get us in trouble.
I believe adultery does not have to be the end of the marriage. But, it will take lots of counseling and accountability to restore trust and all the other emotional hurts involved. A couple of thoughts in conclusion....
* Forgiveness is God's way of dealing with sinful acts. If you choose to forgive and heal the marriage, it cannot be brought up at every given moment and inopportune time.
* Do not try to control or manipulate the guilty party by reminding them of what they did (don't throw in their face) because that could push them over the edge, again.
* Forgiveness is not the regranting of trust. Trust must be earned through an accountability process and proven track record. Keep in mind if they messed up once, they can do it again.
I do pray that your marriage will never be wounded by the dagger of adultery. In the event it has, I encourage you to trust the situation into the hands of God. He is concerned about your hurts. You can trust God with your marriage, your hurts, emotional issues and everything involved in your situation.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Ryan Moore Commits to lead Christ-Life Worship!
Good news! We have been believing God for a worship leader! My desire was
a worship leader that was sold out to the cause of Christ, humble, and a
loyal team member. I believe God has provided that in Ryan.
I have known Ryan for several years, but there was no communication for
over three years. He was fasting in TN when God put our fellowship on his
heart. He said he was coming for a couple weeks, but now that he has met
our folks he feels God has called him to Enterprise.
He will be leading music, audio, lighting, and just about anywhere we can
use his giftings. Ryan has worked on television sets and worship teams
for a few years. He is young, but brings a wealth of understanding.
Ryan has already begun building a team and mentoring other musicians. Now, lets believe God for drummer and other musicians.
BEYOND, BEYOND!
a worship leader that was sold out to the cause of Christ, humble, and a
loyal team member. I believe God has provided that in Ryan.
I have known Ryan for several years, but there was no communication for
over three years. He was fasting in TN when God put our fellowship on his
heart. He said he was coming for a couple weeks, but now that he has met
our folks he feels God has called him to Enterprise.
He will be leading music, audio, lighting, and just about anywhere we can
use his giftings. Ryan has worked on television sets and worship teams
for a few years. He is young, but brings a wealth of understanding.
Ryan has already begun building a team and mentoring other musicians. Now, lets believe God for drummer and other musicians.
BEYOND, BEYOND!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Reflections on 1st Sunday in New Location
God is so amazing! When I look back over the last couple years, and to see what happened this weekend my heart leaps with joy. To be honest I have no idea where or how to start this reflection.
Over the last couple weeks we have made preperation to move into a permanent location. That alone was exciting, but to see what God did in our service was overwhelming.
For the last several months we have met in parks, restraunts, other churches, and homes. Really never knowing where we would be from week to week. We watched as our attendance dwindled, finances depleted, and spiritual life became difficult. In my mind I remember it seemed like all we had left was five little kids...that got on the van...and sat in the middle of my floor. For some reason I remember that day...it was around the time that I decided to quit. It was also the day that the bus kids sat on my floor and poured their hearts out in worship.
There have been days that it seemed like noone was left and then there were days I can remember sharing the message at my house with people actually laying under the table to listen.
First, I want to thank all of you who dared to believe...who hung in there...and was willing to endure the hardship of the past couple years. I know it was hard on you. My heart is humbled by your desire to keep our church together. I am more convinced than ever that God is right in the middle of all we are doing.
Several of you came and shared in the diligence of preparing our new place of worship. Some were there for hours...skipping family time...working when you could have been resting...painting, prepping, pruning, practicing, and more!
Then it was finished...we called a time of prayer...we locked the door in anticipation of who is going to come. As 10AM rolled around I felt like the big game was about to take place...I was actually nervous...I felt like I had hit the lottery...but better! I told myself if there's 5 people...I'm preaching like there's 5000...other than the ministry team...the first couple to arrive was first time visitors, then the van pulled up out front, then those who had not been in a long time, then those who worked all week...and I realized it was on..it was happening...we were coming to worship together...
Ryan hit the first note...the presence of God invaded the place...we all worshipped standing at the foot of the cross...my wife and her beautiful voice like the sound of an angel...our friends of 10 years...the elders with the pride of knowing we had just made a huge step...a nursery to keep the kids...announcements of things to come...a message that has been transforming my walk with Christ...and a final point preached by the Father and orchestrated by the Holy Spirit....
You can follow the series on www.christ-lifechurch.com...but I have got to tell you what happened that brought me to tears. I shared a message on Trust. The theme was no shame in trusting God. I let the congregation know they could trust God with anything...good or bad. I am concluding my messge...I am about to tell the church I am trusting God to build and add to our church...when just as I begin to say it (keep in mind I am at the end of my messge)...8 people walk in that Justin had invited at a gas station... I literally broke down in tears...almost the entire crowd came forward to trust God...many had hands raised, families praying together, tears were rolling, the saints were ministering to each other, and God was moving!
The wild thing is...I'm already nervous about what God might do this week...the anticipation is incredible...the excitement is back and stronger than ever...the pieces are coming together...its beyond what i thought it would be. God is so good! And if I may steal a line for Kurt Warner, "Thank you Jesus!"
Over the last couple weeks we have made preperation to move into a permanent location. That alone was exciting, but to see what God did in our service was overwhelming.
For the last several months we have met in parks, restraunts, other churches, and homes. Really never knowing where we would be from week to week. We watched as our attendance dwindled, finances depleted, and spiritual life became difficult. In my mind I remember it seemed like all we had left was five little kids...that got on the van...and sat in the middle of my floor. For some reason I remember that day...it was around the time that I decided to quit. It was also the day that the bus kids sat on my floor and poured their hearts out in worship.
There have been days that it seemed like noone was left and then there were days I can remember sharing the message at my house with people actually laying under the table to listen.
First, I want to thank all of you who dared to believe...who hung in there...and was willing to endure the hardship of the past couple years. I know it was hard on you. My heart is humbled by your desire to keep our church together. I am more convinced than ever that God is right in the middle of all we are doing.
Several of you came and shared in the diligence of preparing our new place of worship. Some were there for hours...skipping family time...working when you could have been resting...painting, prepping, pruning, practicing, and more!
Then it was finished...we called a time of prayer...we locked the door in anticipation of who is going to come. As 10AM rolled around I felt like the big game was about to take place...I was actually nervous...I felt like I had hit the lottery...but better! I told myself if there's 5 people...I'm preaching like there's 5000...other than the ministry team...the first couple to arrive was first time visitors, then the van pulled up out front, then those who had not been in a long time, then those who worked all week...and I realized it was on..it was happening...we were coming to worship together...
Ryan hit the first note...the presence of God invaded the place...we all worshipped standing at the foot of the cross...my wife and her beautiful voice like the sound of an angel...our friends of 10 years...the elders with the pride of knowing we had just made a huge step...a nursery to keep the kids...announcements of things to come...a message that has been transforming my walk with Christ...and a final point preached by the Father and orchestrated by the Holy Spirit....
You can follow the series on www.christ-lifechurch.com...but I have got to tell you what happened that brought me to tears. I shared a message on Trust. The theme was no shame in trusting God. I let the congregation know they could trust God with anything...good or bad. I am concluding my messge...I am about to tell the church I am trusting God to build and add to our church...when just as I begin to say it (keep in mind I am at the end of my messge)...8 people walk in that Justin had invited at a gas station... I literally broke down in tears...almost the entire crowd came forward to trust God...many had hands raised, families praying together, tears were rolling, the saints were ministering to each other, and God was moving!
The wild thing is...I'm already nervous about what God might do this week...the anticipation is incredible...the excitement is back and stronger than ever...the pieces are coming together...its beyond what i thought it would be. God is so good! And if I may steal a line for Kurt Warner, "Thank you Jesus!"
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Final Schedule
WOW! You have been awesome! Christ-Life is blowing me away with their hard work, love and fellowship! We could not have done it without our volunteers. It really means alot to see you guys so committed to the vision. This will make an eternal impact...you watch!
Just wanted to give a semi-official schedule for the rest of the week. I have to work the next couple of evenings so I will really need your help!
Thursday:
1:00 PM - Administrative Team, Technical Team and Heavy Lifting Team (anyone available would be great)
7:00 PM - Technical team and Heavy Lifting Team (if you can only make one or the other please be here for stage construction).
Friday:
10:00 AM - Heavy Lifting Team (Need someone to pick chairs in Elba), Cleaning Team, Room Assembly...Lets be ready by Friday @ 5PM.
6:30 PM - Musicians Only!
Saturday:
10:00 AM - Need everyone...finishing touches!
5:00 PM - Sunday Service Walk Through
7:00 PM - Prayer!
Just wanted to give a semi-official schedule for the rest of the week. I have to work the next couple of evenings so I will really need your help!
Thursday:
1:00 PM - Administrative Team, Technical Team and Heavy Lifting Team (anyone available would be great)
7:00 PM - Technical team and Heavy Lifting Team (if you can only make one or the other please be here for stage construction).
Friday:
10:00 AM - Heavy Lifting Team (Need someone to pick chairs in Elba), Cleaning Team, Room Assembly...Lets be ready by Friday @ 5PM.
6:30 PM - Musicians Only!
Saturday:
10:00 AM - Need everyone...finishing touches!
5:00 PM - Sunday Service Walk Through
7:00 PM - Prayer!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Super Bowl Outreach!
If you know someone who loves football, food and fun who is not living for Jesus this is your chance to reach out to them. We are having a Super Bowl Outreach at my house on Super Bowl Sunday @ 6 PM. Lots of food and fellowship! Its important that you bring an unchurched friend as we will share the gospel at half time of the game.
If you came to the Alabama party...you know it was huge. So invite those same friends and this time we will share Jesus. Please RSVP.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
My Baby Girl!
A couple weeks ago, while deciding to move into our new location a wonderful thing happened in my life. Laurie and I were sitting at an auction when she received a text that blew our socks off.
It went something like this...hey, saw some kids that used to come to church, told them we are getting a new building with a childrens church...they were all excited!
Next text...then I thought we didn't have anyone to lead childrens church...so, I thought about it, and I will do it.
Awesome, someone saw the need...the importance of the need...had a gift and took a huge step forward. So, our second sunday open Febuary 14th, we will be opening our childrens church.
Oh yeah, that person was my baby girl, Brooke. An elementary education major at Troy University. I think it will look great on a resume...working with children while working on her degree. Anyone who knows Brooke...recognizes almost immediately her leadership ability.
Laurie and I are both really proud of her hard work and commitment to Christ!
Gotta go.
It went something like this...hey, saw some kids that used to come to church, told them we are getting a new building with a childrens church...they were all excited!
Next text...then I thought we didn't have anyone to lead childrens church...so, I thought about it, and I will do it.
Awesome, someone saw the need...the importance of the need...had a gift and took a huge step forward. So, our second sunday open Febuary 14th, we will be opening our childrens church.
Oh yeah, that person was my baby girl, Brooke. An elementary education major at Troy University. I think it will look great on a resume...working with children while working on her degree. Anyone who knows Brooke...recognizes almost immediately her leadership ability.
Laurie and I are both really proud of her hard work and commitment to Christ!
Gotta go.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Voluteer Team Listings!!! Go Team!!!
Sunday was so sweet...I really felt the presence of God in service! So thankful for all the people who have volunteered to be part of our work week to prepare the new building. Laurie and I went and just kinda walked around last night...we are so excited! I thank God for what He has done.
Please check emails, twitter and my blog on a regular basis as I will let you know when we need your team. If you didn't sign up please feel free to come help!
FEBRUARY 1, 2010: OUTSIDE TEAM & ROOM ASSEMBLY TEAM 1:00 pm til Dark Thirty
Bring: Flat Head Shovels, Pressure Washer, Hedge trimmers, chain saws, blowers, rakes, Wheel Barrels, Sanders, Paint brushes, pulling chains
HEAVY LIFTING TEAM BE ON STAND BY!
OUTSIDE TEAM: Tony Dubose, Dewayne Morris, Matthew Martin, Brandon Goodyear, Eddie Fortner, Logan Fortner, Nia Morgan, Jamey Fortner, Debbie Dubose, Mr. Swasey, Chris Lindley, Sandra Grant
CLEANING TEAM: Laurie Shroades, Logan Fortner, Halie Fortner, Barbara Morgan, Stacey Johnson, Shelia Fortner, Jayden Stevens, Mary Young, Nia Morgan, Glenn Young, Brooked Shroades, Victoria Delvalle
TECHINCAL TEAM: Matthew Martin, Justin Swasey, Tony Dubose, Dewayne Morris
ROOM ASSEMBLY: Laurie Shroades, Shelia Fortner, Mary Young, Mr. Swasey, Victoria Delvalle, Halie Fortner, Brandon Goodyear, Nia Morgan
HEAVY LIFTING TEAM: Mike Shroades, Logan Fortner, Mr. Swasey, Jamey Fortner, Jayden Stevens, Van Johnson, Brandon Goodyear, Chris Lindley
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM: Mike Shroades, Barbara Morgan, Brooke Shroades, Shelia Fortner, Nia Morgan, Debbie Dubose
PRETTY TEAM: Mike Shroades, Barbara Morgan, Nia Morgan, Mr. Swasey, Chris Lindley, Halie Fortner, Victoria Delvalle, Jayden Stevens
Please check emails, twitter and my blog on a regular basis as I will let you know when we need your team. If you didn't sign up please feel free to come help!
FEBRUARY 1, 2010: OUTSIDE TEAM & ROOM ASSEMBLY TEAM 1:00 pm til Dark Thirty
Bring: Flat Head Shovels, Pressure Washer, Hedge trimmers, chain saws, blowers, rakes, Wheel Barrels, Sanders, Paint brushes, pulling chains
HEAVY LIFTING TEAM BE ON STAND BY!
OUTSIDE TEAM: Tony Dubose, Dewayne Morris, Matthew Martin, Brandon Goodyear, Eddie Fortner, Logan Fortner, Nia Morgan, Jamey Fortner, Debbie Dubose, Mr. Swasey, Chris Lindley, Sandra Grant
CLEANING TEAM: Laurie Shroades, Logan Fortner, Halie Fortner, Barbara Morgan, Stacey Johnson, Shelia Fortner, Jayden Stevens, Mary Young, Nia Morgan, Glenn Young, Brooked Shroades, Victoria Delvalle
TECHINCAL TEAM: Matthew Martin, Justin Swasey, Tony Dubose, Dewayne Morris
ROOM ASSEMBLY: Laurie Shroades, Shelia Fortner, Mary Young, Mr. Swasey, Victoria Delvalle, Halie Fortner, Brandon Goodyear, Nia Morgan
HEAVY LIFTING TEAM: Mike Shroades, Logan Fortner, Mr. Swasey, Jamey Fortner, Jayden Stevens, Van Johnson, Brandon Goodyear, Chris Lindley
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM: Mike Shroades, Barbara Morgan, Brooke Shroades, Shelia Fortner, Nia Morgan, Debbie Dubose
PRETTY TEAM: Mike Shroades, Barbara Morgan, Nia Morgan, Mr. Swasey, Chris Lindley, Halie Fortner, Victoria Delvalle, Jayden Stevens
Thursday, January 21, 2010
He Was Fasting...We Were Trusting!
Years of ministry has allowed me to meet and mentor scores of people. Sometimes I may not communicate with folks for years. Then, boom, there they are. Its one of those things I really love about ministry....the relationships!
The day we looked at the property for our church I had one of those in-passing conversations with Dewayne, a church elder. We were talking how things seemed to be coming together, and I mentioned a couple local worship leaders I might call. Because we have been doing video worship for nearly a year. I thought how nice it would be to have live worship again...
But, in that short conversation we mutually agreed that God would provide the right worship leader at the right time. Our church has always found ourselves in a worship leader tail-spin. Which caused us to react with desperate measures. This time we simply said God will provide.
The next day I was checking my phones and noticed a "423" number that I did not recognize. I figured another person wanting me to spill my guts about Word of Life, but I kinda thougt it was my buddy Dave. So, I called! It was a young man that I have known for years. I knew him from my COTH days, and he told me he had been praying and fasting. Seeking direction for his life. Out of the blue when he asked God what to do...the Lord spoke to his heart about coming to Enterprise to help us anyway we needed.
What's wild is we really need some help with cleaning up the property and in the music arena. And, by the way, he is a good worship leader! So he and I talked...I got with my leadership guys...and boom...God has provided...some help and a potential worship leader for our church. First, he is going to come and spend a coupole weeks with us. Then, we will talk and look at what the future looks like.
I am really excited about what God is doing...it blows my mind!
The day we looked at the property for our church I had one of those in-passing conversations with Dewayne, a church elder. We were talking how things seemed to be coming together, and I mentioned a couple local worship leaders I might call. Because we have been doing video worship for nearly a year. I thought how nice it would be to have live worship again...
But, in that short conversation we mutually agreed that God would provide the right worship leader at the right time. Our church has always found ourselves in a worship leader tail-spin. Which caused us to react with desperate measures. This time we simply said God will provide.
The next day I was checking my phones and noticed a "423" number that I did not recognize. I figured another person wanting me to spill my guts about Word of Life, but I kinda thougt it was my buddy Dave. So, I called! It was a young man that I have known for years. I knew him from my COTH days, and he told me he had been praying and fasting. Seeking direction for his life. Out of the blue when he asked God what to do...the Lord spoke to his heart about coming to Enterprise to help us anyway we needed.
What's wild is we really need some help with cleaning up the property and in the music arena. And, by the way, he is a good worship leader! So he and I talked...I got with my leadership guys...and boom...God has provided...some help and a potential worship leader for our church. First, he is going to come and spend a coupole weeks with us. Then, we will talk and look at what the future looks like.
I am really excited about what God is doing...it blows my mind!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
God Can Bring Glory To Himself!
Just a quick testimony of God's amazing grace. God does not have to use us, but by His amazing grace He chooses to use people to reveal His glory. The truth is that God can bring glory to Himself! We just get to enjoy seeing Him work.
Monday night (right at the conclusion of 24) there was a knock on my front door. It was a little late for someone to just show up except for my wife's friend Tammy (she stops by at 2am all coked up on coffee). Usually, the later the knock on my door or the later the phone call usually means the more urgent the need.
This was a gentleman that I have been a friend to in the auctions where I buy and sell. He was kinda over taken by the emotion of just having a baby. Well, he didn't his girlfriend did, but he was the father. I can say I was a little surprised to see him...considering he lives about 30 miles away.
He and Marlane's baby had been born early...she was at least a month early! After she was born there was concern because she was losing weight and could not hold any formula at all. Whatever they fed her was immediately vomitted. There was concern on behalf of the doctor as the baby was steadily losing weight. You can imagine at 4 pounds losing 4 ounces at a time was pretty concerning.
He flew in the door of my house and said I told her I hope you was awake because I am going to get him to pray. He wondered if I would take the time to pray for them. I think he was blown away when I told him I would be right behind him at the hospital. I think he had hoped we could just pray at the house, but sometimes that extra mile is what draws people to Christ. I probably could have said yes I will pray and he would have thanked me and left.
Once I met them at the hospital...it was like holding a nerf football..that was the smallest baby I have personally every seen and that includs dozens of hospital visits for new borns. Marlane explained what was happening...they were very nervous!
They asked me to pray before I left. We all laid hands on the baby. Asked God to heal her, to allow her to eat, allow her to gain weight, and I prayed for the fear to quiet itself in their minds.
Yesterday, Laurie and I took a gift to the baby. We walked in still tears in their eyes...they get a huge smile...and with supressed speach they let it all out! Preacher Mike, its amazing...God did it...the baby has not thrown up since we prayed...she's gaining weight and the doctor said she is fine. They were blown away.
Keep in mind these are not churched people. When we left we were discussing the family getting in church...awesome!
I did nothing but what God has programmed me to do...to be an extension of His grace to others. He is the Healer, the Great Physician and our Comforter.
Monday night (right at the conclusion of 24) there was a knock on my front door. It was a little late for someone to just show up except for my wife's friend Tammy (she stops by at 2am all coked up on coffee). Usually, the later the knock on my door or the later the phone call usually means the more urgent the need.
This was a gentleman that I have been a friend to in the auctions where I buy and sell. He was kinda over taken by the emotion of just having a baby. Well, he didn't his girlfriend did, but he was the father. I can say I was a little surprised to see him...considering he lives about 30 miles away.
He and Marlane's baby had been born early...she was at least a month early! After she was born there was concern because she was losing weight and could not hold any formula at all. Whatever they fed her was immediately vomitted. There was concern on behalf of the doctor as the baby was steadily losing weight. You can imagine at 4 pounds losing 4 ounces at a time was pretty concerning.
He flew in the door of my house and said I told her I hope you was awake because I am going to get him to pray. He wondered if I would take the time to pray for them. I think he was blown away when I told him I would be right behind him at the hospital. I think he had hoped we could just pray at the house, but sometimes that extra mile is what draws people to Christ. I probably could have said yes I will pray and he would have thanked me and left.
Once I met them at the hospital...it was like holding a nerf football..that was the smallest baby I have personally every seen and that includs dozens of hospital visits for new borns. Marlane explained what was happening...they were very nervous!
They asked me to pray before I left. We all laid hands on the baby. Asked God to heal her, to allow her to eat, allow her to gain weight, and I prayed for the fear to quiet itself in their minds.
Yesterday, Laurie and I took a gift to the baby. We walked in still tears in their eyes...they get a huge smile...and with supressed speach they let it all out! Preacher Mike, its amazing...God did it...the baby has not thrown up since we prayed...she's gaining weight and the doctor said she is fine. They were blown away.
Keep in mind these are not churched people. When we left we were discussing the family getting in church...awesome!
I did nothing but what God has programmed me to do...to be an extension of His grace to others. He is the Healer, the Great Physician and our Comforter.
Monday, January 18, 2010
We Have A Building!!!
After years of dealing with unscrupulous characters, losing our church property, and wondering if God was upset with me about something....He is breaking through like the morning sun. That is the only way to describe what is happening. Its like the dark of night...and then the hint of light begins to glow in the sky early in the morning...and you know a new day is here. I feel like a new day is here! And I love how it feels. To see God break through all the darkness of the last couple years is beyond unbelievable. I am so thankful for what He is doing right now! I have never been so full of the assurance that God is working on our behalf.
It all began when God broke through the crust of my wounds and said I am still here and I need you to totally trust me. I thought I was living by faith until I made a commitment to trust God...even during the weeks I didn't receive paychecks. To trust God and do what He lead me to do...regardless of how crazy I looked. It began with a commitment, then actions; some spontaneous and some by the persistant nudging of the Holy Spirit.
Forgiving some folks was the first thing I had to do! Then people came to me asking for forgiveness! The Lord provided a much needed financial blessing for my family through a source that I was at great odds with. I went from occasional paychecks, to no paycheck, to not missing a paycheck for a few weeks now!
More importantly, I feel the change in my personal spiritual climate. Unchurched people are showing up on my doorstep...again! Its been a long time! That uncontrollable desire to share Jesus has come back. My vision is in restoration...
In the midst of all this...God drops a building in our lap. That's right starting Feb 7th Christ Life will meet @ 210 Plaza Drive...in Enterprise. It will be our location until we out grow it, and then God will provide another building.
Please keep up with my blog...I will be sharing tons of wonderful testimony for your encouragement. And believe me its meant to encourage...just six months ago my plan was to get out of the ministry...now I cannot imagine doing anything else. God is working things to the good!
It all began when God broke through the crust of my wounds and said I am still here and I need you to totally trust me. I thought I was living by faith until I made a commitment to trust God...even during the weeks I didn't receive paychecks. To trust God and do what He lead me to do...regardless of how crazy I looked. It began with a commitment, then actions; some spontaneous and some by the persistant nudging of the Holy Spirit.
Forgiving some folks was the first thing I had to do! Then people came to me asking for forgiveness! The Lord provided a much needed financial blessing for my family through a source that I was at great odds with. I went from occasional paychecks, to no paycheck, to not missing a paycheck for a few weeks now!
More importantly, I feel the change in my personal spiritual climate. Unchurched people are showing up on my doorstep...again! Its been a long time! That uncontrollable desire to share Jesus has come back. My vision is in restoration...
In the midst of all this...God drops a building in our lap. That's right starting Feb 7th Christ Life will meet @ 210 Plaza Drive...in Enterprise. It will be our location until we out grow it, and then God will provide another building.
Please keep up with my blog...I will be sharing tons of wonderful testimony for your encouragement. And believe me its meant to encourage...just six months ago my plan was to get out of the ministry...now I cannot imagine doing anything else. God is working things to the good!
Monday, January 4, 2010
The Wonderful Gift of Forgiveness!
Its true that to experience God's forgiveness is the greatest event that happens in a persons life. I often tell people that when I served the devil I was a great servant. There was alot of forgiving God had to do when He forgave me. His forgiveness is a wonderful gift.
The great thing about His gift is that He expects us to pass it on as necessary while we live on this Earth. If there is anything ministry has taught me...it is that you are going to hurt people even if you don't intend on it. Not only that, but people are going to hurt you as well.
This past year has been amazing...actually the past couple months is what I want to zero in on in this blog. Near the end of November God really began to deal with my heart about trusting Him uncoditionally. I assumed it was for provision and jobs that I was applying for. None of those jobs panned out but God began to provide. In the midst of what I thought was a test to trust Him for provision was actually something much larger.
In the past couple years the situation with our church hurt alot of people. Confused alot of people. Ticked off a few people. And, unfortunately, brought the worst out in some people. In the mess we lost alot of people because of the outright instability. In hind sight I don't blame them...it just hurt because to my face it was we're with you...we're with you...we're with you.
Recently, God laid on my heart that there was some forgiveness I needed to extend to people that had done me wrong. Some of them I have located...others are yet to be spoken too. About a month ago I was in Waffle House with my son. We saw a pastor that I had developed an attitude towards because I felt like he had split a church...I was brought up that church splitting was just something that staff pastors should never do. Regardless, he and I had lunch a while back I made a comment about why he did what he did, and he made a comment about certain churches, and I took it to heart because my church was in that category. When I saw him in Waffle House the Lord spoke to my heart to pull him aside and talk to him. I did and he forgave me. It was only the beginning of what God was about to do.
Forgiving Word of Life has been a process...they hurt me and alot of other good people. But, I can say God has helped me to forgive them. I hope to either write them a letter or talk to them personally if God allows.
While the Word of Life ordeal was going down. We took in a pastor who had fallen. We grew close to he and his family. As we grew closer I developed a sense about him that he was not trustworthy. Until this point he and I had been friends for years. When I felt like he was trying to cause me problems I had to confront him. It got ugly. I don't regret confronting him...I regret what I said...how I said it...and a position I took. When he began another church I told my wife if God honors what he does I am getting out of the ministry. There was alot to this story that I am not sharing, but trust me it was messy. Over the past month I would see him out and about...we gave each other a friendly wave. Then, God began to put it on my heart to forgive him. I fought it...then his wife showed up on our door step with a miracle in her hand. You see our family has really struggled financially with the problems the church had gone through...the past month has been amazing as I have trusted unconditionally and forgiven people...His provision was becoming more obvious. In her hand was a gift of a few hundred dollars...they had heard we were struggling. I knew it was time to forgive, and leave whatever happened in that church up to God.
Today...someone who I absolutely did not trust was riding around my subdivision...they pulled me over while I was running and said they were looking for me. She said she came from Dothan to let me know she forgave me and asked me to forgive her for all the problems that had occured. It blessed my heart to see God was also working in the hearts of others.
Forgiveness is a wonderful gift! The truth is found in scripture...if we don't forgive others, then how can our Heavenly Father forgive us! Well, I hope this encourages you as I know God is doing something.
The great thing about His gift is that He expects us to pass it on as necessary while we live on this Earth. If there is anything ministry has taught me...it is that you are going to hurt people even if you don't intend on it. Not only that, but people are going to hurt you as well.
This past year has been amazing...actually the past couple months is what I want to zero in on in this blog. Near the end of November God really began to deal with my heart about trusting Him uncoditionally. I assumed it was for provision and jobs that I was applying for. None of those jobs panned out but God began to provide. In the midst of what I thought was a test to trust Him for provision was actually something much larger.
In the past couple years the situation with our church hurt alot of people. Confused alot of people. Ticked off a few people. And, unfortunately, brought the worst out in some people. In the mess we lost alot of people because of the outright instability. In hind sight I don't blame them...it just hurt because to my face it was we're with you...we're with you...we're with you.
Recently, God laid on my heart that there was some forgiveness I needed to extend to people that had done me wrong. Some of them I have located...others are yet to be spoken too. About a month ago I was in Waffle House with my son. We saw a pastor that I had developed an attitude towards because I felt like he had split a church...I was brought up that church splitting was just something that staff pastors should never do. Regardless, he and I had lunch a while back I made a comment about why he did what he did, and he made a comment about certain churches, and I took it to heart because my church was in that category. When I saw him in Waffle House the Lord spoke to my heart to pull him aside and talk to him. I did and he forgave me. It was only the beginning of what God was about to do.
Forgiving Word of Life has been a process...they hurt me and alot of other good people. But, I can say God has helped me to forgive them. I hope to either write them a letter or talk to them personally if God allows.
While the Word of Life ordeal was going down. We took in a pastor who had fallen. We grew close to he and his family. As we grew closer I developed a sense about him that he was not trustworthy. Until this point he and I had been friends for years. When I felt like he was trying to cause me problems I had to confront him. It got ugly. I don't regret confronting him...I regret what I said...how I said it...and a position I took. When he began another church I told my wife if God honors what he does I am getting out of the ministry. There was alot to this story that I am not sharing, but trust me it was messy. Over the past month I would see him out and about...we gave each other a friendly wave. Then, God began to put it on my heart to forgive him. I fought it...then his wife showed up on our door step with a miracle in her hand. You see our family has really struggled financially with the problems the church had gone through...the past month has been amazing as I have trusted unconditionally and forgiven people...His provision was becoming more obvious. In her hand was a gift of a few hundred dollars...they had heard we were struggling. I knew it was time to forgive, and leave whatever happened in that church up to God.
Today...someone who I absolutely did not trust was riding around my subdivision...they pulled me over while I was running and said they were looking for me. She said she came from Dothan to let me know she forgave me and asked me to forgive her for all the problems that had occured. It blessed my heart to see God was also working in the hearts of others.
Forgiveness is a wonderful gift! The truth is found in scripture...if we don't forgive others, then how can our Heavenly Father forgive us! Well, I hope this encourages you as I know God is doing something.
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