Mike Shroades Ministry Blog

Courageous Parenting - Part 1

2011-10-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

He speaks and we listen. We bow down to His every command. His desires have become our desires. We follow His will to the letter. Out of fear we serve Him unconditionally. We obey Him to thwart His wrath. The problem is ... HE IS ONLY FIVE YEARS OLD!
C'mon man! What the heck parents. Get a backbone...its time to take our homes back. Its time for children to see who's in charge. How are you helping your kids when all you do is cater to them? So much is running through my head right now...I must focus.
Let's focus on regaining control of your home. First, FATHERS...lead your home like a Godly man should. Love your wife like Christ loved the church, and don't provoke your children to do things that they in turn can blame on you! Love, honor, cherish, respect your wife. And when the little ones don't respect your wife it is your job to put them in their place. Your kids will learn to respect their mother from you! You treat her like crap and so will they! Cuss her...so will they! Use her...so will they! Abuse her...so will they! But when you decide to be a real man and refuse to let your children "dis" the love of your life they will come in line.
Here's how it works...notice I said works...my kids are older but they better respect my wife. For years my kids heard me say...don't talk to your mother like that.
Over twenty years ago I was in a McDonalds...a mother accidentally got mustard on her sons burger. He stood...took the burger apart...walked over to his mother and smeared the mustard in her face. I WAS LIVID! Where do you think he learned that behavior? I would bet it was from his father! Maybe even his absenteeism! That little boy had learned how to control, manipulate, abuse and punish his mother for doing something wrong. She wiped her face and got him another burger. (PERSONAL CONFESSION: TO THIS DAY I WANT TO BEAT THAT KIDS BOTTOM TIL HE CANN'T SIT DOWN)
And all those pansy parents are angry at the thought that I wanted to beat that kids bottom, and its probably your kids that inspire this blog. Now, I know I'm in your face but someone better save your kids from you!
Parents its time to get back to raising our kids like God has instructed us too. Not, how the school system tells us to. Not, how the media tells us to. Not, that build your kids self-esteem crap. That's what has gotten us into this mess. And definitely not how the government tells us to raise our kids.
To raise your kids the right way will require you to make some courageous changes. Proverbs tells us to raise them in the way they should go...and when they get older they won't depart from those ways. Okay...lets talk something as simple as going to church. Do you really expect your kids to be on a Godly course by keeping them away from the place designed for them to encounter God? I have an idea...keep them out of school for months at a time and see what happens. Remember you are setting them on course for their older years by the way you lead them in their younger years.
Let's start there...Courageous Change #1 You and your kids get to church...oh by the way, when they get there don't expect us to let your kid scream all the way through service just because THEY said they didn't want to go in the nursery! More forth coming...

Top 10 Things I've Learned from Pastor Mike

2010-10-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Teaching - Spiritual Gifts pt. 2

2010-06-23T03:04:00.000-07:00

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.

Love In Action Ministries - CHARITY AUCTION

2010-06-18T14:37:00.001-07:00

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

Tuesday Teaching - Spiritual Gifts

2010-06-15T06:20:00.000-07:00

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?

Quit Blaming The Other Guy!

2010-06-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

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!

FIRE!!!

2010-05-17T02:58:00.000-07:00

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!

Growth & Diversity

2010-04-05T02:16:00.000-07:00

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.

Stories of Grace con't

2010-03-13T05:44:00.000-08:00

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!

How to Strengthen the Church One Believer At A Time!

2010-02-25T03:52:00.000-08:00

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.

Adultry & Abuse ... part 2

2010-02-24T03:52:00.000-08:00

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

Adultery & Abuse ... part 1

2010-02-18T02:54:00.000-08:00

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.

Ryan Moore Commits to lead Christ-Life Worship!

2010-02-11T07:14:00.000-08:00

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!

Reflections on 1st Sunday in New Location

2010-02-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

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!"

Final Schedule

2010-02-04T06:12:00.001-08:00

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!

Super Bowl Outreach!

2010-02-03T04:13:00.000-08:00

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.

My Baby Girl!

2010-02-02T02:43:00.000-08:00

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.

Voluteer Team Listings!!! Go Team!!!

2010-02-01T05:57:00.000-08:00

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

He Was Fasting...We Were Trusting!

2010-01-21T06:14:00.000-08:00

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!

God Can Bring Glory To Himself!

2010-01-20T06:03:00.000-08:00

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.

We Have A Building!!!

2010-01-18T20:35:00.000-08:00

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!

The Wonderful Gift of Forgiveness!

2010-01-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

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.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T17:28:00.000-08:00

Well, its two nights until Christmas and I think we are finished with every thing. We are spending tonight and tomorrow with my family in Atlanta. We are at Mike and Morgan's...mom flew in last week. It will be her first Christmas without Jake. She is doing good, but we keep her busy to keep her mind off things. Eventually, she will have to learn to be alone, but we just didn't want that to be during the holidays. My mom is a great person, and I know things will work out for her. I really miss Jake...its just hard to believe that he is gone. Its weird not talking to him or about him while she's with us. She gets sad in the evenings because when she traveled she always called to tell him what she did during the day.

It looks like Lindy is going to be a big sister. Mike and Morgan are expecting...please pray for them as they have had so many challenges carrying full term. But she's far enough along that things look good right now. Lindy, Morgan and Mike just made sugar cookies after our throw down on some tacos!

I love being with my family. I hate my sisters couch, though. I never sleep good on that thing!

Mikey and Chris are down stairs playing ping pong. Mikey was all excited as he beat me for the first time ever last night. I am about to go lay the smack on them!

Laurie and I went to WalMart but were to cheap to buy the big screen, but its close...we really want one. We are struggling between a cheaper plasma or paying more for the LCD. I would love and LED...but wow have you seen the price.

I think we have done good shopping for the kids. We have no credit card bills to pay, and nothing was financed...Christmas is paid for! That excites us when we don't have bills after Christmas. Thats a good feeling and a goal her and I have had the past couple years.

Trying to get Laurie to get in the hot tub, but she's afraid of the cold. I told her once you get in the tub its only cold outside. Starting to think its me she does not trust. Anyhow, I'm not scared think I'm going to play ping pong, catch a DVD, and then relax in the hot tub.

Merry Christmas to everyone...love ya!

Church Service New Location @ The Hampton Inn Conference Center

2009-12-18T22:11:00.000-08:00

I have some exciting news to share. Starting December 20th Christ-Life will begin meeting in the Hampton Inn Conference Center. If you have been with us any time at all it is the same facility we used a while back. Its a good location for us to re-launch from.

I know this has been a difficult transition over the past year and a half, and I commend all of you for hanging in there. Meeting at the house has been a challenge when it comes to numeric growth, but it kept us in fellowship with each other until we were able to raise some money to rent a facility. As you know, a few months ago we layed out a strategy for the end of the year. In that we discussed a few options that would be dictated by the amount of money we were able to raise. With that in mind the elders and I felt the best option was to begin renting the Hampton Inn until we could regain some families and finances.

So, we invite all of you to worship with us for our "Greatest Gift of All" Christmas service. Coffee and donuts will be served at 10AM, and service will start promptly at 10:30. As always we will be receiving a special Christmas offering that will go towards the re-launch of our church. Please come and bring a friend!

Sunday night Laurie and I would like to invite everyone to our home for a Christmas celebration. Bring a covered dish and everything else will be provided. Please let us know how many will be coming with you. The fun will get started at 6 PM. We will be playing Christmas Bingo.

Next Sunday the 27th Christ-Life will be conducting a special communion service with a special message titled Remember When. In times like these I think its important that we look back and reflect upon the good things that God has done. Those times He really came through. So bring your family for this special message and communion.

I hope to see you there!!!

In Christ's Love,
Pastor Mike

Pastor Appreciation

2009-11-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

This blog has been hacked today so that we could let Pastor Mike that we appreciate him.

We All Need A Paul In Our Lives!

2009-11-05T04:49:00.001-08:00

The past few years has taught me quite alot. But, probably the one thing I have learned is how bad we all need a mentor. Like Timothy had Paul in scripture...we all need a Paul in our lives!

I say this because we need someone who truly cares about us, believes in us, and is wiser than we ar...able to speak into our lives. Or to listen to the train wrecks we are climbing through in an attempt to survive lifes crashes.

I hate to admit...I have no Paul. Nor have I ever had a person that is like a Paul to me. I have had pastors, bosses and older people that just loved me. Unfortunately, I have never had that one leader that poured his life into mine....man do I regret that.

Its not that I haven't tried. I love the pastor I came to Christ under. He was a great preacher! But, his leadership skills were not extremely strong. He was caring, compassionate, and a man of prayer. He did influence me to be a person of prayer. After moving away for 10 years I found myself under his ministry again. He was great but distant. Once I began pastoring another church come to find out he was having an affair with his Timothy's wife!

While in college I connected with a ministy that I thought had what I wanted. I was faithful to them, and they were faithful to me. It was great! Then, things changed in our relationship. It was my fault. I made a comment in passing to a church member that I thought my pastor was being a little controlling and untruthful in the way he handled the firing of some staff members. That's when I learned the Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde of ministry. Don't cross the boss! The pastor and I did reconcile. He actually appointed me to the church in Enterprise. And you know the rest of the story....

My first full time church position was some of my happiest times in the ministry. Growing church, growing as a leader, still friends with most of those members, and my pastor was a great guy. Just the type of person I loved to be around. He loved me, he complimented me, he corrected me, he prayed for me, he recognized my leadership....he was what I needed. When I tried to really bond...I realized his wife was not welcome to him having someone like me in the way. She lived by a conspiracy theory....everyone was trying to take over the church...and that included me. She was actually our secretary for a while, and I had to talk to my pastor about the way she treated the whole staff...we all ended up resigning our positions. A several hundred member church closed its doors within two years of that day.

The man who came to me as a Paul...I would not heed his loving concern. I was about to take the position discussed above. He came to me pulled me aside and told me his son was in the ministry. With tears in his eyes he begged me to stay with the company I was working with and doing very well. He informed me that its not what its cracked up to be. I believe he was telling me I was going into the ministry with blinders on. I had just graduated college, just had a baby, just come through a marriage crisis, still connected to pastor #2 and I had promising opportunities that could have landed me in Chicago. Now, that I am forty and have had some struggles and some victories I think about that mans words at least on a weekly basis. He was the manager of SEARS, and he was my boss....I wish I could have kept him in my life over the past 15 years. My mother recently told me I need to go back and have a discussion with Mr. Gentry!

Life is painful, but life is great! Not only do we need a mentor in the times we are confused and unsure, but we need that person in our victories as well. I promise some of my victories lead to crisis moments just because I didn't handle the victory well. And sometimes we all just need some godly input. Don't take me wrong I have godly people around me...many of whom I rely heavily upon. But I still think that this is true....That we all need a Paul in our lives!

Closing in on building!

2009-11-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give everyone an update as to where we are in regards to a potential building. To say the least it has been an eventful journey. We began over a year ago meeting in the local park for worship services. Then, we began meeting in the Hampton Inn Conference Center and quickly out grew the facility. From there we met at David's Catfish House (which was really a great location) until the economy forced them to open on Sunday's. We went briefly to house groups, and for the past several months we have met in our home.

Since we have started from ground zero Christ Life has had to rebuild financially and numerically. It has really been a challenge...a walk of faith...and at times a challenge to my faith. But, after a year of patiently waiting we are seeing some movement. A building has come available that would be within budget providing a few things can work out.

The main part being that we had set a goal of having $7500 in hand to work with before committing to a building. We are only about one third of the way to that amount. I guess you can help us if you feel it in your heart. But, my main reason for this communication is for those who have informed me that they are still part of Christ Life, and have not felt comfortable in our very uncomfortable setting. Just wanted to let you know we are presenting the owner of the building with three different options. If we can all get on the same page we should be in a building by the end of Novemeber.

Please pray God will guide and continue to give us wisdom. Laurie and I have no problem with everyone meeting in our home, but today as I taught people were actually laying under the table listening to the message.

Our plan is to enter the building...have video worship via Lifechurch.tv and my message. We will have youth services during another time. We are starting simple...very basic...we have to rebuild the base. I hope everyone will rejoin our fellowship once we are established in a building. If you have any questions or would like to donate money, supplies, or time please contact me.

Don't Lose Your Mind...

2009-10-21T03:12:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you were about to lose it? There have been times that not only did I feel I was about to lose it, but I was ready to let it go. Fortunately, God's grace has always been there. Have you ever noticed when you are at your wits end....that's when it seems like God shows up.

Lately, I have found myself reading over/rehearsing the scriptures that regard protecting your mind....

cast down every imagination that tries to exalt itself against who Christ is...
renewing your mind with the washing of the Word...
being transformed and not conformed to the ways of this world....
dwell on the right, lovely, praiseworthy, and the list of things goes on...

Its a battle out there, and its a battle in here. By in here I mean your mind! There's a song out that says "why does love feel like a battlefield". My era was more Pat Benatarish...."love is a battlefield." Have you ever considered that maybe the battle rages in your mind becasue of the tremendous love God has for you. On the other hand, there is an enemy to your soul who is battling for control of your mind as well. The mind is the battlefield.

Not much of a soldier, but part of the strategy of war is to gain ground. To lose ground is to lose a battle. In your mind do whatever it takes to maintain what you have conquered, and advance slowly. In times of battle...I will say out loud that I am not going to think about that or this. Its my insane way of staying sane. Lately, I have practiced that alot and found that it helps. Because it helps in areas I have struggled with for years....guilt, fear, etc.

So just a thought this morning....DON'T LOSE YOUR MIND!

Where does the desire go?

2009-10-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

I have been doing alot of thinking lately about myself. For the last 20 years I have served in one capacity or another trying to make myself a better pastor/leader. Today as I blog this I recognize by God's grace I have accomplished some pretty amazing things, and at the same time I have failed miserabley in some areas.

For nearly 20 years I have either drawn people closer to Jesus, or totally ticked them off. I realize I am either the kind of person you love or hate...not too many middle grounders out there when it comes to Mike Shroades. That is something I have learned to live with. I have never been one to mix words. At the same time I don't want to hurt peoples feelings.

Ministry causes many pastors to absorb themselves with what others might think if they don't ........

On the other hand, alot of pastors live guarded with the fear of what if someone sees me in this or doing ...........

Let's face it, we are public figures. Not only are we public figures, but we represent the Creator of the Universe....we are Gods representaive in our public lives. By our title alone we tell people that we have high moral and ethical standards bestowed upon us by Almighty God.

As public figures we are public speakers. Our words influence people...and influence is leadership. I have often felt like my words were shallow, and falling on deaf ears. Only to have someone remind me point by point of something I preached years ago.

My life's ambition has always been to be a Godly man, a provider for my family, a blessing to others, a great communicator, and a trusted/respected pastor. At times I have excelled at those goals, and at times I have dropped the ball.

I understand there are ups and downs in life and in the ministry. I know that I will not always say or do the right thing. Heck, you know I don't act right. I admit at times I am lazy, lethargic, tired, unprepared, deceiving, manipulative, annoying and depressed. There are sins I have struggled with since the day I came to Christ. There are times I do things that I know are not socially acceptable considering what I do for a living. And there are times I am totally on top of my game.

With that said...in all the ups and downs I have never strayed from what I knew God has called me to do. But, I have to admit that over the last couple years my desire has fainted. In the last year I have considered stepping down as a pastor every single day.....

I recognize it is due to the tremendous loss we suffered as a church. Also, questioning leadership decisions I felt was best for the church. My main concern is that the will of God was detoured and that has so frustrated me. To the point that I have questioned everything there is to question in kingdom work. Of course, my accountability partners know all that I struggle with, and I will not oblige my critics with all the sorted details.

I really need God to give me a resolve to endure the hardship of this trial, and in His time to restore my passion/excitement for ministy. I will continue to lead and love Christ Life Church...who by the way has been awesome. They inspire me!

My focus has turned to my family. This kinda sabatical has helped me to think constructively, and yet critically concerning things I can do to give them a better life on this earth (and prayerfully beyond this earth). Many times I assumed I couldn't do something without my wife and kids. In reality, I can do nothing without God. My wife and kids are the wonderful perks given to me by my Boss.

The Climb

2009-09-28T06:09:00.000-07:00

Its really weird having church in the house, but I can tell who is going to see this through. I appreciate all of you who have remained committed beyond just saying you would continue to support and be part of the church.

This past Sunday we completed a little study I called The Climb. Mainly, because that's what we are doing...climbing! Hard to believe it has been a year that we have been without a building or any sort of permanent location.

We did a study on I Samuel 17 concerning David and Goliath. In this familiar story I taught 3 points to help us climb over obstacles or to new heights. To set the stage we have Goliath defying the armies of Israel and their God. He has dared any of them to come and fight him but none has taken the challenge....Why? Because of intimidation...and the stakes were really high.

Most people won't face their giants because of the extreme intimidation they face in their challenges. Whether trying to quit smoking or starting a new business...its intimidating. In my prep I saw three characteristics that David displayed that can help us conquer our giants and climb to new heights.

1. Self-confidence. Nothing wrong with being confident as long as you can do it without being cocky. Arrogance is idolatry according to scripture. But, recognizing that God has given you certain abilities is okay. David approached Saul about fighting Goliath by presenting his resume...killed a lion...killed a bear...and he trusted God! David had the confidence that he could defeat the giant.

2. God-confidence. David knew that God was with him and that was enough. He was willing to step out on stupid faith. He knew his ability came from God almighty. The young warrior was willing to go into battle with full assurance that God would help him conquer the giant. This is where we have learned to go into our battles in the name of the Lord.

3. Confidence to Complete. I have a problem of starting strong and losing momentum at times. The loss of momentum is discouraging, but we must have the confidence to complete the task. That's where self-confidence and God-confindence mix together like your favorite dressing. You see God always works through people...I'm not into the false humility that says its all God ... I didn't do anything....sure you did...you sang, you preached, you stepped out, and God got all over it. It was you using the ability that God gave you to complete the task. David let his giant know that he was about to be defeated...he was confident that he could complete the climb with God's help.

You can complete the climb! Lou Holtz says "if you don't have confidence in yourself you will never succeed." The balance of that is the simple quote by Rick Warren, "that its not about you." Its all about God, but God wants to use you. How awesome is that? When you and God get on the same page there is not a giant that exists that you cannot conquer in His name!

Check Out the Potential Building...How You Can Help!

2009-09-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I gave everyone a list of five different options. I think its vital that we begin to move towards a central location. I sensed some weakening in our fellowship and it has continued for about three weeks. Attendance and finances has dropped dramatically.

So, I have given five options:

1. Rent and renovate building beside Watson Glass (acrossed from Best Yet)

2. Rent a store front on Main Street

3. Rent in a strip mall

4. Rent a conference room (this would require setting up and tearing down weekly)

5. Merge with another church

My first option is my favorite idea. So, what I am asking is for everyone to go by the location and give me your honest input...

I need to know if you are that committed to remodelling and giving to make it work. I have only had a couple people respond. So, it goes without saying that two or three people cann't carry the load. If we don't have the commitment in labor and finances there is no way we can rent the building beside Watson.

Please email your thoughts and how you think you can help in this effort. I need all input by this Sunday.

Thanks...love you guys!
Pastor Mike

Ode to turning 40!

2009-08-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I have reached a milestone. This past week I turned the big four-zero. I wasn't quite sure how it would feel. I found it was a time of deep reflection. Thinking back to when I was a kid and figuring out what year it would be when I turned such and such age.

Many of those years have past...Now its 2009 and I am 40 years old. I can say I have done alot of great things in past couple decades. I have had some horrific days, as well. I remember when Prince sang Party like its 1999 and I thought I would be and old man at the age of 30...now I am a decade removed from that, and I realize that probably half of my life is now over...VERY SOBERING!

The first forty has been eventful to say the least. Its hard to believe that I finished highschool in 1987 and then crammed 4 years of college into six years. I have been married to my high school sweet heart all these years. But, I have to admit...we were way to young to get married. The majority of our challenges have stemmed from those early years. Too young, Too immature, too stupid, too little money, not much wisdom and trying to take advise from people who hadn't learned their lessons! Yet I truly love my wife...and I think she still loves me...that's what over 20 years of marriage will teach you...don't speak on her behalf.

I have really been reflecting on the blessing of our children. Its hard to beleive the genetics doctor told us to abort both our children. Wow! How stupid was that? I love my kids so much...that's why I push myself to work so hard. I really want to provide the best I can for my family. I have zeroed in on living within our means and preparing an inheritance for my kids and their kids. That's what a good man does!

My kids inspire me...how can something so good come out of something that is so screwed up? I love Mikey and Brookie like there is no tomorrow. One goal I have always had is to lead my kids to Christ...I hope of all things I have been successful in that...they love the Lord and hope they will pass on a healthy spiritual leagacy.

Even though our church has really gone through it...I know I have reached a milestone of nearly 10 years at one church. Many pastors don't have that opportunity...nor do the congregations they lead. It will be officially 10 years in March 2010.

I was talking with one of the elders of the church, and I let them know they have shared 25% of my life with me. That's alot of time for leaders to work together...and we have lead with the utmost of integrity...always trying to listen to God and keeping what was best for the church in the forefront of what we have done.

One of the biggest regrets is that I have spent so many of those years away from my parents. I have a great relationship with my mom and dad, but I have always wished I could share more of my life with them. I wish I had some videos of my birthday parties, but all my parties were videos of my sister Morgie. I wish I could have been there for Morgan in her teenage years, but she came through pretty good. And regardless of the things my brother has done I don't like to hear the criticism from outside of the family. Remember the first eighteen years of my life I shared a room with that boy. They both have afforded me the pleasure being an uncle...Devon, Tylor (Benji's son), Sarah, Linda, and Brad are so special. I have actually begun to wonder what it will be like as a grandparent....I can wait to find out!

I miss not having grandparents...all my grandparents have passed away. Its been years since I said lets go to my grandparents house.

I have met some of the finest people in the world over this 40 year span. Some are just old church members, some are friends, some are good friends, but I have alot of God-friends

The past 40 years has been good, but I hope the next 40 are great! Like most people I don't feel like I have accomplished what I should have. There will be some necessary changes to make. Some serious goals are...preparing for retirement, preparing an inheritance, a possible career shift, deeper devotion to family, more time with my parents, a new convertible BMW (sounds like a mid-life crisis) and I really want to write a book (even if noone buys it).

Most people don't know this...but I have written a few poems...even a rap song...and I like rap music of all kinds...but I am going to try to spit a few rhymes covering 40 years.

The day I was born uncle Jim ran away,
in my grandparents hotel I would stay.
My mother was young and what I see
is alot of her on the inside of me.

My dad was so proud of my name,
With hopes I would grow up and play Gary's game.
Sarah Jane had to take a seat
to a little boy that we call Bradley.

Since 1977 there are no pictures of me
cause that was the year we got Morgie.
They both follow me to school as a kid
and I blame myself for alot of what they did.

Married my girl and we had alot to learn,
scripture said better to marry than to burn.
Two kids and over twenty years later,
I sure have learned how to treat a girl when you date her.

The boys all know by the look in my eye,
go ahead and touch her if you wanna die.
My son, now he's another story
I tell him to look at mom to see what she looks like at FORTY!

Why Do Vacations Have to End?

2009-07-31T12:25:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let every one know that we are back from our vacation in West Virginia. What a great family getaway! My kids have not been home in a few years so my family was really stoked about all of coming home together.

We stayed at my mothers house which is located at the highest point in Hancock County. She still has not put her AC in the window. We slept with the windows open...for the first couple days it never went over 70 degreess. One night we had to turn the heat on in the rental car.

Of course, we were able to spend time with my dad as well. Its always late night eating when we go to his house. But, dad has cable and internet that works so we spend alot of time with him watching TV.

I met my new nephew...lil Bradley...that's scary. He is adorable. My niece Devon was there and spent just about every woken hour with us...and every sleeping hour as well.

We at like pigs! I had lost about 10 to 12 pounds and I gained it all back. Jake (moms husband) and Theresa (dads wife) are really good about making sure we have plenty to eat.

The first couple days we chilled and spent the afternoons deer spotting. I hung out with my brother at the track for a couple nights....I could not do that all the time. Fun to visit but it could be addicting! Of course, I did some yard saling and stored it at my brothers house. I picked Brooke up at the airport on Saturday. Sunday we went to Geneva on the Lake on Lake Erie. Its awesome...I grew up taking my childhood vacations there. We located a missing family member...no really over a year missing.

While there an old friend lost his son in a car accident, and my step-brothers father died...that was sad! Please continue to pray for them during their time of loss...

Of course, we ate! We went out to Laurie'e dads twice and met him at a restraunt on another night. He and his wife, Sharon, fed us a huge hot dog meal...with pasta salad...steamed veggies...my favorite was the zuchinni! Laurie really enjoyed her time with her dad. Grandma really seemed to enjoy herself as well. They don't get to see him as often!

The best thing for me was just seeing my kids with their cousins, grandparents and old friends. Mikey rode dirtbikes and Brooke had Minnie-mouse stay all night with her....no for real...the Minnie from Walt Disney World!

We see my family alot as they travel south quite often, but to me there is no place like home. The people back in Newell, WV are just down to earth, real folks. I really love the people I grew up with...tons of memories! Laurie got to shop, shop and shop. We love going home!

Enjoy the pictures!

Old Church Becomes An Auction House

2009-07-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

The sale of the old church building has finally happened. Unfortunately, things didn't work out like we anticipated. God is still in control, and He will restore that which was lost in all this.

This week we received alot of attention when we protested at the closing of the old property. To be honest some was good and some not so good. One thing I admit that I did not think through vey well was how this would weigh on the new owners.

The new owners are Tom and Jesse Neese. They are very good people and I count them as friends. A few months ago Tom called to take Laurie and I to dinner. He told me he was moving his business to Enterprise, and I assumed he was looking for a business partner as he knows I love auctions. To the contrary he wanted to inform me of a business move he was making. He and his wife told me they had entered a contractual agreement to purchase the church property, and was shocked to find out after the fact that it was the church we had been forced to evict.

They have been so gracious...they asked me not to be upset with them. I assured them I was not at the least bit put off by their business decision. It was a great move at an unbelievable price...I told them if I could get it at that price I would do it too. Furthermore, when they found out it was the church I pastored they offered the building to the church at no charge...unreal. I expressed concern for the people...and they said its open anytime...Anytime!

The news did not make it clear about the time span that we were locked out and evicted...this has been a two year process. So, its vitally important that everyone in the community understand that the Neese's have done nothing wrong to our church. They have extended a loving arm, and I ask that noone criticize them for what they did. They have nothing to do with what has gone on in our battle with Word of Life.

That is just a building...don't turn it into a sacred cow. We are the church and we will continue. The Neese family has been very generous to me and our fellowship. I encourage the local folks to go enjoy a night at the auction...trust me the roof won't cave in...nothing sac-religious about it.

When Laurie and I first went we stepped out and shed a little tear, but it was something that needed to be done. So, my apologies to the Neese family for any unfair criticism you have received due to your recent purchase. I want them to know I love them and I will support their business when I can.

FYI: The auctions are Tuesday & Saturday @ 7pm! Go have some fun and try their BBQ it makes us fat boys happy!

Peaceful Protest Planned for 3 pm

2009-07-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

We will be protesting in a peaceful manner the closing on our former church property. As you know our church people paid for that property with their tithes and offerings. Word of Life agreed to sign that back to the congregation and instead is selling it out from under us. We will line the street of 203 S Edwards in peaceful protest as they sign the property and Hank Davis pockets the $165,000 that he did nothing to earn or deserve. I pray that Word of Life and Church of the Harvest in Cleveland, TN are shut down by the hand of God for the deceptive practices that occur on a regular basis. Come out and show your support for the church and see if Hank Davis will face us, apologize, or continue to be the spiritual coward that we know him to be.

The Outpouring Has Not Even Begun

2009-07-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

This morning in prayer I got to thinking about The Outpouring series and why it seemed so short lived. I beleive that the Lord has spoken to my heart...that it is not over....as a matter of fact it hasn't even begun.

I believe its about to get crazy and God is going to do something huge!!!

July Schedule Set For Christ Life

2009-07-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our Christ Life family that has really been holding it together. A big thank you to all of you that have been attending small groups and continue supporting the church financially. Not sure what to expect over the coming months, but I am expecting God to be in control. And that's fine with me.

The building we had hoped to move into is still up in the air....but I think we are no longer first on the list as some deeper pockets are showing interest. Regardless, God's will be done!

Tonight we had our small group leaders meeting. We will continue in small group through the first Sunday of August...(at least). Below is the Christ Life schedule for the next month...

July 1st ... Small Group Host's Meeting
July 5th ... Small Groups
July 12th ... Small Groups (Lindley's on vacation)
July 15th ... Leadership Meeting
July 19th ... Church Cook/Covered Dish ( Johnny Henderson Park)
July 26th ... Small Groups (Shroades' on vacation)

Everyone please attend the small groups ... we are doing video messages from some of the greatest communicators in God's kingdom ... the fellowship allows you to get to know people on a new level ... there's usually food!

She had a tatoo that said Nobody

2009-06-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago Ken Tuck and I took a group of folks to the inner city of Los Angeles on a Love in Action outreach. We had the privilege of teaming with The Dream Center lead by their pastor, Matthew Barnett. On this trip we had the opportunity to reach out to people living in the hotels in the notorious Skid Row district of downtown L.A.

While we were passing out food to the families that were staying in these cheap hotels I saw something that literally broke my heart. I have carried this image with me for years.

There was young African American woman staying in the hotel. She sheepishly got in line to receive the food we were distributing. As she came through the line my heart went out for her. Never really had a chance to get her story, but the back of her neck said enough. As she turned around to go back to her room...I saw a tattoo...it said....NOBODY

Did I really need her story...she tatooed her body with her perception of what she was...a nobody! To this day that image still breaks my heart.

How many people do we as Christians walk by everyday...that may not be tatooed...but they are marked. Inwardly, they feel like they don't matter. They wonder why they exist. There are people that have been so beat down that they have branded themselves as unlovable. My prayer is that God will give us the ability to find the nobody's of this world and introduce them to the one someone that will make them feel like a somebody.

My Son Inspires Me!!!

2009-06-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

Many of you know my son, Mikey. Excuse me, the other day he said Mike not Mikey. Regardless, you know who I am talking about.

Six or seven years ago my son came home from basketball practice and said that there was this droopy thing over his eye. My wife immediately recognized that his retina may be detatched. Her fears were confirmed and the next day we were in the hospital having surgery. It wasn't long that the same thing happened in his other eye. Unfortunately, the surgery was not as successfull in his second eye. They ended up having to do back to back surgeries to repair the retina. Along with that he had to have a cataract removed and an ocular lense implanted. His eye sight never really came back.

Laurie and the kids both struggle with Wagner-Stickler Syndrome. A disorder that effects connective tissue in the body. Their eyes...joints...mouth...ears...heart...any where tissue connects body parts.

Through it all Mikey continues to be an active energetic young man. Noone will ever know how much he has to adjust and how hard he has to work just to do the simplest of things. I have seen him on hands and knees patting the floor looking for his glasses because they had fallen off his face. I have heard him complain of pain in his arms just from throwing a baseball.

He inspires me to never give up. Before the surgeries (even though young) he was a stand out athlete...after the surgeries he found himself struggling to continue as an athlete, but he never gave up. He continued playing ball...even sitting through the humiliation of coaches not playing him "because of his eyes", and other kids yelling things about being blind while he was trying to bat.

The amazing thing...I have seen him in the top of his teams batting averages almost every season. He has to open up his stance just to get a glimpse of the ball with his right eye. He makes diving catches at second base, but it takes a little while for him to throw the ball because he has to relocate the bag after coming up with the ball. I love watching him play baseball because he has to work really hard just to be on the field...noone just gives it to him because he is friends with so and so. Sometimes the coaches put him in the outfield...the smart ones put him back at second as soon as possible... I have seen coaches intentionally embarass him. At times he wanted to quit, but he is now playing on the 15 to 18 year old Enterprise Rec team. I think he has the ability to play JV for the high school. With some practice...I wouldn't count him out of playing varsity ball for the Wildcats.

He also is a natural at motocross racing. He one the first and only three state race series he entered. He was so outstanding that he became a fan favorite. When people found out he was blind they stood in amazement as he would whip that motorcycle all over the track. As a matter of fact, his bike broke half way through the series. He was leading and his competitor provided a bike for him to finish the series. He loves racing dirt bikes...it scares us to death. But, he is really a good rider. A student of racing...he's amazing.

His grades are great...he never complains except that he feels hindered at times. He does his homework, he does have to sit up front. Gets paddled and doesn't tell his principal to be careful of his eye disorder. The teacher doesn't know he is hard hearing so they assume he is not paying attention. His friends parents love him and most his friends seem to have his back in the event when little scuffles break out...though I have heard he can hold his own. He was the first in our family to pass his driving permit on the first attempt. But, we did have to get a doctors slip saying he can drive.

He always overcomes regardless of his physical limitations. That's why my son inspires me! We all need to learn to overcome the things that hinder us!

Watching Your Kids Become Adults

2009-06-11T09:58:00.001-07:00

Your kids are pretty much what you as a parent have trained them to be! Yikes!

This week we celebrated my daughters 19th birthday... Laurie and I are both proud to be the parents of Mikey and Brooke. Probably the greatest honor I have as a parent is knowing that both my kids love Jesus. But, beyond that it is always a blessing when other parents pull Laurie and I aside just to tell us that they are glad that their kids hang out with ours...not that they are perfect...but because they are good kids.

Today I want to focus on Brooke. Later I will do a blog on the difference between raising boys and girls!

Brooke is an adult! She will always be my little girl, but she is at the age where my role is entirely different. Over the years I have followed the instruction of Dr. Dobson...letting the rope go further and further with time. For instance, when Brooke was in 9th grade I felt a fair curfew was 10 pm...by her senior year we asked that if she could not be home by midnight to give us a call. Now, what she does and when she determines to come home is her call.

Brooke is going into her sophomore year at Troy University. Our commitment is to insure her vehicle, keep up the maintainace, pay for repairs and give her a certain amount weekly while she stays on campus. Recently, Brooke talked to us about financing a car. This is where you have to let your adult kids make the tough decision. I encouraged her not to do it. Debt is slavery! I told her if she chooses to do it...it will be her baby. The entire bill would be hers and my commitment to providing a vehicle is finished. It doesn't mean that you don't try to offer advice. But, once the advice is offered you need to let them make the decision and live with it.

Too many parents are still trying to control their adult kids lives...and that is a whole different ball of emotional junk I am not qualified to handle! Craig Groeschel tells the story of when he was in college that his parents told him if he starts drinking, partying and doing the things that come with that lifestyle that they will cut off all funding and he will be on his own. He shares how he went against his parents wishes. Guess what they did? They cut him off financially! That took guts...too many parents treat their 25 year olds like 5 year olds.

If your adult children are making bad decisions, over their head in debt, sexually impure, drinking too much, and the list could go on. You have to draw the line in the sand and determine not to cross it. Quit fighting their battles for them! And by all means quit covering up the messes they make...eventually the pile will get so high that its obvious what the problem is. YOU!! You are only enabling them to be what they are...the first change that needs to take place is probably with you!

I am not encouraging you to abandon your kids. Like you, I will always be there for my kids. But, when they become adults its time for them to chart their own course. When we as parents continually bail our kids out...they will continue coming back for hand-outs until you cut them off.

Let me share some examples where you may need to step in to help...if they are the victim in a physically abusive marriage...by all means get him/her out at any cost! In the event that their mental capacity erodes due to finances, drugs or whatever take proper action...just make sure its proper. If your adult children go through a serious life change be there for them as thats when they will need you...not your lectures. For instance, foreclosure...divorce...death of a child... bankrupcy...marital unfaithfulness...depression...loss of a business and once again the list could go on.

Its amazing after a couple of decades in ministry the number of adults I know that the biggest problem is their parents. If you have an adult child, then you may want to consider some drastic changes that need to be made so you and your children can be more productive. You as an adult child may even need to tell, not ask, your parents to butt out! Don't let controlling parents cost you your marriage, your job or your dreams.

Well, that's all for now....holla!

How Would You Survive If You Lost Your Spouse?

2009-06-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I was at an auction when one of the elders came in and told me he needed to talk to me outside. Considering everything our church had been through I thought, what now? It was worse than a church emergency...it was a family emergency.

My wife was at home with chest pains that she had been suffering through for nearly an entire day. She said they started at 1am and now it was 7 pm. All her friends were getting worried so they sent Brother T to get me. I went home and decided to take her to the hospital. I didn't think she was having a heart attack, but with her health problems I felt I better get her looked at.

Fortunately, she did not have heart problems... But, while pulling up to the ER the thought crossed my mind....What would I do without Laurie? That was a scary thought! I chalked it up to one of those things that you eventually have to deal with as you get older.

If I lost my wife right now it would be really difficult to go forward. I'm still fairly young and the thought of even dating another woman scares me. My biggest concern would be Mikey...his mom does so much for him and I would really stink at being Mr. Mom. Brooke would lose her best friend...I think it would have devistated her for years.

What a sobering thought...but one day one of us will go first...How will we make it?

How would you survive if you lost your spouse right now?

Sunday Night Review

2009-06-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

What a difference a couple of days can make! A few days ago I was sure that many in our fellowship were beat down and defeated due to the ever changing circumstances of the past couple of years. Was I wrong! They came energized!

Over the past several months Christ Life Church has lost a building, met in a park, rented a hotel conference room, met in a restraunt, and now we are going to be in homes for at least the next month. The last ten years has been one challenge after the other, but I am seeing the fruit of teaching balanced messages and pouring into the leaders.

Nearly 10 years ago we came to Enterprise with anywhere from 12 to 21 people coming to services. Over a couple year period we saw an explosion of growth to over a couple hundred calling our church their home. In those first 9 years we had over 3000 visitors. Our growth was explosive and so was our ministry. Unfortunately, our covering began having legal issues which lead to our first request for them to put the building back in the local churches name.

God in His wisdom knew He could not allow us to grow to thousands knowing the evil that lurked as a prententious spiritual covering for our fellowship. Over a four year period we began realizing we were tied to an organization that lacked integrity. So, we decided to come out from under their covering as the manipulation continued.

Many would visit and comment that our church should be running thousands...and I agreed. God being in control knew what was coming. Imagine if thousand had been coming when Word of Life sold the church out from under us. What if we had thousands and thousands of dollars that they could have drained from our bank account.

Through this I have seen the wisdom of God, and the resiliance (sp?) of His people. Today fearing the beginning of the end...God showed me that He has put a remnant of people that still wanted to go forward. Nearly, 50 people showed up at our house at 10:30 this morning to show their support....I really anticipated 20 at the most. I told them we have no building options, and that we would have to meet in homes for a month before we can even begin to make any building decisions. To my surprise over 55 people are now signed up for small groups.

I let them know if they still have hope that God is going to move in our church, then I will continue to lead the charge. I am trusting God to take us forward from this point. I am making no big plans...totally leaving it up to Him. Its His church so He can do what He wants I am simply a vessel yielded to God.

What a great day! Please continue to pray for God to move at Christ Life Church.

Rally Together Party This Sunday!

2009-06-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will rally together at my house (300 Faye Street). Everyone come at 10:30 for a time of fellowship, devotions and worship. Aftwards we will update everyone as to our new location (if possible). Regardless you will know exactly what to do for the next several weeks.

Following that we will have a huge cookout....bring the kids, bring friends...its still church...we have to rally together. Dress Comfortable!!!

In Search of A Building for Christ Life

2009-05-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

First, it was great having fellowship with Headland Assembly of God today. What a great ministry opportunity Sean and Shira have ahead of them. Really enjoyed meeting their new baby, Elisha....Our God is a God of miracles. Oh yeah, nice to see Sean's mom, Sherry, she lives two house around the corner from me and we had to drive to Headland to talk with her.

I know this has been a challenge. Today I put it the best I could in talking with a church planter. We are not experiencing the excitement of starting a new church. We are going through the agony of holding a church together. And that's the key we all have to stay together to make this work.

Karen Lewis was able to help secure David's Catfish House so she is back on the beat helping us with a building that I think is a real possibility. If that does not work I need to know if you would be willing to travel to New Brockton? Enterprise is to dang expensive! That's why most their buildings sit empty!

New Brockton is only 5 miles out of the way...it has larger buildings available...we can set up without tearing down til we found something in Enterprise or saved enough to build a building.

As far as services go right now. We will be organizing some home groups until we find a building. Its crucial that we attend. If we do not have a building by Teusday we will organize home groups for the next four weeks. So, will anyone volunteer their home?

Finally, I need to remind everyone to remember their tithe and offering. We still have financial obligations that don't involve buildings. Also, we need to be sure to have money when the right door opens.

Well, I love you guys...sorry to everyone on the church bus today. It wouldn't be a successful church outing if the church bus didn't break down!!

Sunday Service To Be Held @ Headland Assembly of God

2009-05-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

Hey guys just a reminder that we will not be meeting at David's Catfish House this week. As know we will no longer be able to use the restraunt as they have to open on Sunday due to hard economic times.

We will be car pulling to Headland Assembly of God for Sunday services. Sean Morgan is the senior pastor...you may remember that he lead our worship team until he moved to Dothan. Everyone needs to be at my house by 9:30 as we will pull out on time. Church starts at 10:45...216 Cleveland Street if you don't make it. That is in Headland, AL.

Looking forward to being with some old friends that we have not seen in a while. A special thank you to Pastor Sean and the enire Headland AG church for your kind offer...

David & Deana Wedding Relocated Due to Rain

2009-05-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

Just a note on behalf of David & Deana...they are having the wedding at The Enterprise Inn & Suites because the wedding on the bridge just won't fly with all the rain.

Make sure you are there on time....the Inn is not working very well with them in this situation. We will begin at 4:00 pm.

Final Service At David's Catfish House

2009-05-20T07:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday when I clicked the icon to post my blog...my cell phone rang. It was the owners of David's Catfish House. They explained to me that the economy has slowed them down so much taht they will have to be open on Sundays. They are willing to let us be there this week, but we will need to find another location after Sunday's service.

I have a couple leads and others are now looking. Enterprise is just so stinkin' proud of their stuff. Rent is crazy. I do believe God is going to see us through to the next building. I think we need a larger building as we have had some good attendance lately. I am shooting for something that can seat at least 250. Its time to get a location where we will not be constantly setting up and tearing down if possible.

We will probably move our grad service to this Sunday so all grads be sure you area in the service this week. I will be giving $100 to all grads...just kidding!

The Outpouring will be talking about The Promises...two promise that can turn a church upside down. I am excited about what God wants to say to His people. Stay posted...

The Outpouring - Pt. 1 Problem Identified

2009-05-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

Well I wanted to wait a day or two so I could look back and post a blog with proper hind-sight instead of writing under the lack of adrenalin that Monday so often offers. I'm glad I did because yesterday was blah...kind of strange considering how awesome Sunday was. The Outpouring has begun at Christ-Life Church.

First, thank you to all the faithful people that have hung in there in the transition from The Potter's House to Christ Life...from Battens to Davids Catfish House. You deserve a crown! Beleive me when I say this you are going to look back and be glad that you stayed. You didn't let your feelings get hurt, you stayed even though tired, and you have not made it about you...God will honor that....and I love you for it!

Many of you have kept tithing right through the worst of financial calamity in our country. Remember that tithe is given to God, and He knows your obedience in doing so. You have put God first...now He is about to bless you with first-class ministry.

I am going out on a limb here but I want you to know the vision I have from God...I admit I have not enjoyed living in Enterprise. As an outsider it has been very difficult to make true friends in this very clickish/political town. The spiritual enviroment seems to operate under the same conditions which is typical of most places. Churches often take on the enviroment of the community. Another thing is that this place is so flipping boring. There is nothing to do...and this is where I believe its time to go out on a limb. Since this town is so boring...why not create a church that is the exciting thing to do in Enterprise (with Gods help of course). A church where people will want to attend, visit, become a member and get involved. Where its all about Jesus...He is lifted up ... and people are drawn. A church where men can gather for fellowship. Where women can build strong relaionships. Where the youth are being shaped into world changers. A place where discipleship is still part of the vision! A church that people are being added to daily. A place where the poorest are seated right next to the wealthiest...and they have a mutual love for each other. OH...there's more! How about touching the entire world with the joy of the Lord instead of being frustrated by all the junk that happens.

The book of Joel revealed a huge problem...a plague of locusts. The locusts destroyed everything the people of God had. It translated into 4 more problems:

No New Wine! To me that is symbolic of the absence of the Holy Spirit. Remember when David commited adultry and had someone murdered. In Psalm 51 he prayed God do not take your Holy Spirit from me. I say it like this... God do not take your spirit of holiness from me. When things are so bad you cann't even feel the Spirit of God you become tempted to comprise your personal holiness. For God to restore, His Holy Spirit must be the guiding force. Not what I want...not what you want...egos must go! The Holy Spirit operates to point people to Jesus. So, for there to be new wine in our midst we must simply be conduits by which the Holy Spirit can flow and direct people to Jesus!
No Offerings! The priest were morning because there was nothing to offer God. No money..no burnt offerings...nothing and it was demoralizing. When you are stripped of everything and you have nothing left to offer God it is depressing. Most godly people want to give more than they do. Authentic pastors wish their respective churches would prosper so they could do more for the kingdom. If you have nothing material to offer God...offer Him you! Do as Isaiah did and declare here am I Lord! Isaiah had some work to be done inside of him...but he still made himself available to God. Offer yourself to God!
No joy! Unhappy Christians...need I say more. Enjoy Jesus...its time that we wipe the frown of disappoint off our faces. Many of you may be weak...let the joy of the Lord be your strength. Remember in our weaknesses He is made strong. Let Jesus live through you! Don't let this world drain you of the things this world cann't restore. The world didn't give it to me and the world cann't take it away. Remember the old song...this joy that I have, the world didn't give it and the world cann't take it away. Don't confuse happiness with joyfulness...you can still have joy even if you're not happy with the conditions you find yourself in.
No celebration! Three songs a message and out the door. There's a problem when the most exciting part of a church service is the benediction. Celebrate Jesus! Forget all the other junk that is going on in your life and get focused on the One who saved your soul. Worship should be an audience of One. Its not what you get out of worship...its what you put into it. Celebrate, Shout, Dance, Sing, Clap, Cry...just do it. God is worthy...He inhabits the praises of His people. If we aren't celebrating Him we will not experience His presence.

To restore all the things that had been stripped away God required two things....rip your heart open in my presence and intercede for the people. I invited people who used to attend primarily to get them interceding for us because I saw how tired and weak we had become. When our strongest leaders were ready to throw in the towel I knew we had entered desperate times. Desperate times require desperate measures. It was was so amazing to see people who left our church (some years ago) come in with a smile on their face and worship with us. By the end of the day...some asked forgiveness for hurting the church by leaving the way they did...other recommitted their lives to Jesus....during the week some people emailed and let us know they could not come but that they were praying for us. Some have told me that they have wanted to come back, but that will have to be between them and God.

Through all the hurt of the past couple years (especially) I feel its time to allow God to restore what has been taken, pour out His Spirit and to move on. I want everyone to know I do not hate Hank Davis or Word of Life officials. What they did was unethical and immoral but it is not up to me to seek revenge. God will repay them...they already have their reward. I must forgive them so I can be totally focused on what God's will might be for our fellowship. None of us are called to wrestle with flesh and blood! I feel as if we (primarily me) had entered that arena so I now gracefully bow out. I now stand in the gap for you...asking God to restore more than you lost. To grow our church out of a restraunt...to be the light of the world. From this time forward no more mentioning of the wrongs brought to our church...lets move forward in the power of the Spirit.

READ THE BOOK OF JOEL FOR THE OUTPOURING

2009-05-15T13:40:00.001-07:00

Just a quick blog to remind everyone to read through the book of Joel. The Outpouring series was birthed from Joel 2:28. It will be easier if everyone has a basic understanding of the book before they come on Sunday. Since this will be a series that lasts three weeks there is no way I can read every scripture.

I hope to have a nice crowd Sunday. I have invited a bunch of people that used to attend the church. Not necessarily to draw them back but to get them involved in the process of interceding for us. It has been a struggle the past couple years and I am looking forward to a restoration of all things. Come to The Outpouring expecting!

INVITATION TO THOSE WHO USED TO COME TO CHRIST LIFE

2009-05-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

To those who have not been to the church in a long time. Maybe you left happy...maybe you left mad (that usually means at me). God has really been putting a huge message on my heart for our church.

It is no secret we have gone through some huge changes. Most of you who left was bought in at one time, and for some reason or another your attendance is irregular or not at all. Maybe you have fallen into sin, just lost interest, felt lead by God or just got mad. Many of you left just because we did not offer this or that. I am pushing the doors wide open...even to those of you that have not been to the church in years.

God has given me a message called The Outpouring. It is from the book of Joel...and believe me it is an eye-opener. If you once attended Christ Life/The Potter's House you know we have really gone through it over the past couple of years. It has been a real struggle. I am not sure what God is up to, but I know he has put it on my heart to invite some old friends back to the church for this serve.

We start at 10:30 on Sunday...coffee and donuts at 10:00...Brad Garrett will be leading worship for The Outpouring....God is doing something huge...please come...pray about it...ask God...I dare you!

Start Praying NOW! And Don't Stop!

2009-05-10T17:42:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you know that I feel God has a message for our church wrapped up in the series I passionately refer to as ' The Outpouring'.

Recently I took a three day prayer retreat to be sure I was hearing from God. Next Sunday cannot come soon enough to me. All I am asking you to do is pray that God will pour it out...and then be there when He does!

Stay up to date this week via my blog, twitter, emails...and the old fashion mail. Please take this seriously..do not blow it off. If you want God to move in our midst...
If you want to a fresh encounter with God... If you want to experience the power of the Holy Spirit... If you want to see people meet Jesus....

THEN START PRAYING NOW...AND DON'T STOP!!!

Frustration-The Devils Foothold!!!

2009-05-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

Prior to my prayer retreat I had felt an overwelming feeling of frustration. Frustration from so many external forces that were out of my control that it was effecting every area of my life. Below I have listed some frustrations and the course of action I have taken to remedy the situation:

Physically-I was frustrated that I had allowed myself to become so heavy because its gonna take alot work to lose this much weight. Frustrating because I am a high energy person. Sometimes my body aches so bad I can hardly move. I found that I cann't endure the work of the day like I used to. To counter that I have begun eating a little better and not as much. Also, I walk as close to 5 miles a day as I possibly can.
Financially-Laurie and I had worked hard to get our debt problems remedied. We had been a servant to the lender for so long that we were in bondage. We took some drastic actions to get ourselves in a position that we did not owe everything that was coming in to someone else. This year we finally got to a point that we could start saving money. Embarassed to say we had no savings, no retirement (other than social security). Then, for the past several months the bottom fell out and the finances at the church seemed to dry up. For a month and a half I never received my salary (housing only). What little savings I had was immediately dried up, and my hobby of selling on ebay/auctions had to float the family. To counter these frustrations I kept tithing and started giving more in the form of offerings. As soon as I could I replaced the small amount of savings...more psycological to know its there. I talked openly with my wife and kids keeping them informed.
Emotionally-I was beat down! Totally felt fried on life! I developed the mindset that all the church problems was my fault. Believed I had not been a good husband, father, provider. I could feel depression settling in. To be honest I was (and continue to be) angry with Word of Life. I find it hard to let it go because the changes the church has gone through has effected my family in every way. The church members are tired and worn out. I worry about some of them falling over dead...more than walking away from the church. The church condition has caused me to consider a career change...which to me would be a job and not a career. When you struggle financially, physically and spiritually it will have a negative impact on you emotionally. To counter this I have committed to be honest whether its popular or not. The thinking happy thoughts and trying to keep everything positive is superficial to me. Also, I have recommitted to spending time in open ended communication with God. He is the Sustainer of my emotions. I have been keeping my emotions in check by challenging the things that make me feel guilty or fearful.
Spiritually-I was losing ground...didn't feel like praying...didn't feel like reading my Bible...very little fellowship with other believers. A church that has gone through so much. I became very frustrated with church people because they were not doing anything other than Sunday. I kinda lost sight that everything I went through they went through with me. As a matter of fact, (not being overly confident) many probably keep going in an attempt to please me. As you can tell, the church has been a real frustration to me and my family. I noticed my kids were becoming sarcastic and making very critical comments about the church. My kids expressed the disbelief in some of the leaders that recently burnt the church. So, I became concerned that all the effort I have put into pointing my kids towards Jesus and not allowing the church to drive them from Him. To remedy things with my kids they got excited when we all talked about me getting out of the ministry...that really concerned me. So I knew the only way to see change was to lead the charge. I got in my prayer closet...kept my wife and kids informed of all that I was feeling. Made sure we were spending quality time as a family. We even discussed the possibilities of moving to another part of the country. Prayer has been the key...allowing God to speak to me because I was losing hope.

Now that I have opened myself a little to prove my point. Frustration is the devils foothold. I beleive if the enemy sees you frustrated he applies pressure. Have you ever noticed that sin seems so appealing when you are frustrated? You get frustrated sexually you may be tempted to flirt with that person you secretly adore. Maybe you think about committing adultry to fill the void you sense. Its possible you feel no emotional attachment to your spouse so you try to connect to someone else.

When I am frustrated...the beer cooler is a magnet. I can go in out of the gas station and never think about it. All of a sudden a cold beer sure sounds good. I have never said a beer would send you to hell. My problem is...I knew if I drank one I would probably do something stupid. Like drink til I couldn't walk. I say this to let you know temptation abounds...and it is magnified when you are frustrated.

Therfore, identify the areas that are frustrating you and begin to counter them. Frustration is the devils foothold! God's plan is not to frustrate you! Remember he will not put more on us than we can carry...it just feels like it. In our weakness He is made strong. The joy of the Lord is our strength. Lean not on you own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him. He will never leave you nor will He forsake you.

The Reason Our Church Relocated In A Nutshell!!

2009-05-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

I have been receiving alot of requests explaining what happened to our church so I have reposted the two year ordeal (really Hank has been a problem for 10 years...basically ever since I have known him 1990.)

The youth pastor who struggled as the interim sought counsel in his old pastor in regards to Battens P&W. His pastor was Hank Davis. Hank is the leader of Word of Life Ministries and the senior pastor of Church of the Harvest in Cleveland, TN. Word of Life came and approached the church about becoming their covering. The church accepted and the problems began. First, Hank Davis managed to get the property transferred to Word of Life for the amount of $10 via the unsuspecting youth pastor. Then, he borrowed $16,000 for repairs...most of which never were finished. He came to the elders and told them this would be a blessing to the church and then stuck them with the loan for repairs.

I failed to mention it was Word of Life that I was a part of while in college. Hank and his staff asked me to pastor the church in Alabama. I was not wild about working with Hank, but I fell in love with the people in this church. So I came to E'prise.

The loan was the first bone of contention. Many contentions have followed since. On every occasion we tried to be supportive but never felt as if we had received the truth. He had some serious sexual allegations and we went to him. We told him the church was in his ministries name and we felt it would be best if he signed it back to us. He said no worries I will not plea-out to anything. We found that he made a plead to a lesser charge by way of the internet.

The thing is we were growing and doing some good ministry. We wanted to move into town and build a nice new church. The upkeep was too much on the old church. We arranged a meeting with the Word of Life board, traveled to Tennessee to present our plans, and there was no board. Just Hank Davis. He said God had spoke to him about us wanting to build and he was all for it ( I knew he was lying). He said That he would sign the property back to the church he just needed to talk with his lawyer.

Two of the people he claimed on his board notified me that there must be a mistake as they are not on a board for Word of Life. One had said they had to ask him during the sexual lawsuits to quit bringing their name into it. Anyways, he has some loyalists that did support him and allowed him to do this to our church. They are:

Marcus Lamb, Owner Daystar Television
Scott Thomas, Pastor Church Without Walls Lakeland, TBN speaker (go figure)
Kent Davis, Pastor City Church in Tampa (came and locked us out of the church last May)

I spoke with Hank a week later...he reemed me out for bringing him before the sheep and gave me verbal consent to sell the property. He never contacted us again. He would not return our calls. We sought legal advise and the banks advice...they both said quick making mortgage payment and force him into foreclosure. We did that and Hank had his lawyer evict us. He never did sign the property back to us. He paid the $35,000 balance and just sold it to the first offer at $165,000. We had no where to go. We met in the park for two weeks. We rented a hotel conference room and now we rent a restraunt weekly. That is two years in a nutshell.

New Series - THE OUTPOURING - Coming Soon

2009-05-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

For over a month now I have been stuck in the book of Joel. I have no idea what God is about to do, but I know He has given me an awesome message for Christ Life Church. The new series is called The Outpouring. This will begin the third Sunday of May.

Everyone please make sure you clear your schedules for the last couple Sundays of May. God has put some very specific things on my heart. Y'all be sure to be reading through the book of Joel. Its three chapters of easy reading.

I am not assuming any results. Just trying to be obedient to God and leaving the results up to Him. Please be in prayer. Invite everyone you can...call people that used to come they really need to be there.

POUR IT OUT GOD!!!

Follow Me On My Prayer Retreat This Week via Twitter!!

2009-04-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday or Wednesday I will begin a three day prayer retreat. Feel free to follow me on Twitter. I will try to give up dates. I am praying primarily for Gods insight into a message I beleive He has given me for our fellowship. I feel that the Lord has instructed me to take my prayer retreat before elaborating on what it is I will be sharing. Please be in prayer with me.

Trusting God For Our Own Location

2009-04-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I posted a comment on Twitter that I was feeling it was time to find a more permanent location of our own. This week in talking to so many of our members...they feel its time to move. Its tough doing what we do because we had our own place to worship until it was taken over by Word of Life to be sold for a profit. Every Sunday we show up 2.5 hours before service to set up the worship area...then we stay to tear it down. It has wore some folks out and I think its time that we believe God for a more permanent location. Please pray that God will provide the location and the finances. Pray about what God would have you give? I estimate we need to raise about $5000.00 to make the transition.

Florida Campus Pastor Shane Braucht to Speak in Enterprise

2009-04-24T10:54:00.001-07:00

This coming Sunday Enterprise will host the campus pastor, Shane Braucht. Shane, Melody and Boaz are some of my favorite people on the planet. He will be speaking in our morning service. We are so excited that they will be making the trip to Enterprise. Pastor Justin and Shane will spend some time together in an attempt to make both campuses function with excellence. To create a place where people can meet Jesus! Everyone be sure to come...bring a friend...or an enemy. Just make sure you are there. Remember coffee and donuts at 10 am.

The Church Needs Some Help

2009-04-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have a Friday post going into the weekend. Part of going to church is finding a place to serve within the fellowship. We have a handful that always seems to carry the load for others to enjoy.

For the past year or so Jim Mock has been in charge of setting up on Sundays, and he liked to do things himself...he really never built a team. Since Jim has moved on that burden has fallen on those who are already doing plenty.

Therefore, we need men, women and teens that can show up at 8 am to set up tables and chairs. We also need you to stay a few minutes after service to reset the tables and chairs for the restraunt. This is alot of work and we really need everyones involvement. Hope to see you there.

Changes: One Good One

2009-04-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

A few months ago Justin and I went to the Unleashed conference hosted by New Spring Church in Anderson, SC. I really went there to sit back listen and implement as little as possible because I was wore out spiritually. It was a great conference. Perry Noble and his staff are very good hosts.

I remember walking in and a greeter asked where we were from...she turned around and at the top of her lungs started screaming "Enterprise, Alabama in the house." I was embarassed! I did not want the attention...they did nothing wrong. Just not looking to have everyone stare at the two of us representing Enterprise, AL.

The messages were edgey as expected, and the break out sessions were so-so. We went to the second break out session together. That session provided us the one thing that we brought back to Enterprise knowing we had to implement it.

We have started doing a pre-service walk through. Man has it been something we needed. Every Sunday, once the chairs and sound equipment is set up, we do a walk through of our entire service...from the count down to the you are free to go. To be honest...I was ticked the first time we did it because the leadership team was late...lethargic...whatever....it did not go well...BUT THE SERVICE DID!

Over the past month Justin has diligently reminded the team that we are trying to create a place where people can meet Jesus and for that to happen we need as few of distractions as possible. I have to say this is one of the largest steps in the area of excellence we have taken in the nine years I have been pastoring in Enterprise.

There was so much disorganization, back woods attitudes, and the like that I was fed up with it all. We didn't even know who to give the mic to...and the final straw was when our last guest speaker wasn't even given a microphone. Sometimes I wouldn't have my outline to Justin on time. The praise team was fighting within. To many things that made us look sloppy. Ministry team leaders coming in late and not giving a rip. Well, I am here to tell you I am seeing those things slip away and I love it.

Brad Shroades Sober Over A Year

2009-03-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have meant to put this up sooner...but my family wanted me to blog that Brad has been sober for over a year....if you get a chance mail him a note of encouragement.

Brad Shroades
105 Harrison Street
Newell, WV 26050

Shout Out to Justin Swasey!

2009-03-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

Rarely does a pastor have the joy of doing life with someone as awesome as Justin Swasey! He has bought in to the vision of seeing people come to Christ...this guy is passionate about Jesus.

I love and appreciate Justin for his constant encouragement. There have been very few people come to my rescue in nearly 20 years of ministry...especially those times I've just wanted to quit. He has been a great friend and confidant. Every pastor needs a Justin Swasey.

I love and appreciate your humble spirit, wisdom and love for the church. You are a great man of God!

Use this blog to let Justin know how much you love him!!!

March Madness

2009-03-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

Well, for the next month you will have put up with the insanity. I love this time of year. Its like hoops 24/7. And anytime the mighty Mountaineers are playing you can expect plenty of trash talking.

I want to encourage you to get on twitter.com so we can talk smack during the game. Over the course of this month I typically don't take a shower for fear of missing a good play. I will do all I can to avoid human contact. MARCH MADNESS is finally here.

This should be a paid holiday for all of America....tip off is just two hours away. I have two sepereate brackets. One was my person picks going with my gut...the other is on the ESPN Challenge. So let's look at the field. First, sorry to our boys of Troy...but you have to win when it counts.

I have to say Louisville looks strong....probably will win it all. But the Big East has 5 or 6 teams capable of going all the way. It could be a Big East final four. Duke is going home early. Missouri will surprise some people. Butler and Washington will send the weak SEC teams home in the first round.

Clemson might be stronger than you think, but the Terps will need some help. They are lucky to be in the dance. UConn will struggle...if things fall in their direction watch for them to make a push, but they will more than likely be a let down this year. Memphis....Overrated. No where as good as the were last year. Syracuse might be the sleeper. If WVU gets past Kansas you better keep an eye on my boys.

Finally, North Carolina is down with injury concerns. We will have to see. Tyler Hansbro cannot carry this team...he needs his buddy Ty. I will go ahead and make my ESPN pick my official pick.......Louisville Cardinals over the Pittsburgh Panthers in the National Championship!

That's my analysis of the game I will give updates daily...Two hours til tip time...gotta do alot between now and then...

Do you love Jesus?

2009-03-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

Tell us why you do!!!

These DOA messages are killing me!

2009-03-17T00:14:00.000-07:00

I am currently doing a series called DOA...and it is killing me. When I started this I would have never dreamed that God was going to give me a spiritual tune up. Yet I know God is still working in me...trying to lessen Mike so that He can increase!

I want God to shine through me. I want God to preach through me. I want God to love through me. I want God to give through me. The only way I can do that is by getting rid of the me.

The prep for this series has caused me to struggle so much that I feel like I am dying. The great thing is...the more I take me out of the picture the better things seem to be. I know many of you are saying wish you would gotten out of the picture a long time ago. Its people like you that keep my flesh alive!

I don't know if I have ever loved my wife more than I do right now. My marriage is becoming everything I had ever dreamed it would be. In the corner of my bathroom mirror I have written "give up". So that everyday I will be reminded I give up my life for her.

I am about to add "take up" to the other corner. As a reminder to take up my cross every day. This came to me by way of a message on TBN. From a Word of Life board member...a friend...someone that ministry has put a strain on our relationship. I heard someone say one time that the cross was something that the flesh crawled upon to die.

This series has brought me into check...with family members, the church, and even what God's will is for my life. A place where honesty and reality have parked side by side ... and they're in the parking spot that is supposed to be reserved for the senior pastor. I am so NOT everything I should be!

UNLEASH Messages Challenge Me to the Core of Who I Am!

2009-03-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

I just came from the UNLEASH conference in Anderson, SC and heard a couple of the most challenging messages I have heard in years. I went to this conference hoping that I could just be encouraged by the messages. No anticipation of bringing new ideas back to Christ-Life. I succeeded. You all will be glad to know that I am not changing anything at this point.

Well, I lied just a little because I am anticipating a change in me. I typically don't compare what one church has with what we have. Not fair to either of us...and that can get into coveting. I truly appreciate what God has done at New Spring...you can see the anointing that God has placed on Perry.

I do want to make a comparison.

New Spring & Christ-Life has been at it for just about the same amount of time...nine years. They have 13000 people, awesome facilities, and mega-bucks. One other thing they have is a staff that is 100% behind their pastor...not just paid staff...hundreds of volunteers. His staff is humble, thankful, and gracious.

Christ-Life had more in attendance than New Spring about eight years ago. I had the same vision of facilities that NewSpring now enjoys...we sit in a Catfish House. They gather for four services every Sunday. We have about 75 per week....which is actually up about 25 people since we moved from the old church. Its not that people have not given us a chance. We have had nearly 5000 visitors in the past nine years.

I need to make it clear I am about the numbers. Numbers is signs of life...growth...salvation...and I could go on. People that say numbers don't matter have not got a clue! I truly believe we should have no less than 1000 people in our worship services every Sunday.

Now, I want to tell you why we don't. Because of the Senior Pastor! I am not blaming arrogant staff, lazy Christians, the economy or even Word of Life. I take full responsibility! As the lead pastor of Christ-Life we have had glimmers of hope, but we never capitalized on it! That is the leaderships fault and I am the chief leader under Christ in this church.

For the past year I have really considered stepping down and allowing another pastor to come in to lead the church. I have looked and looked for the right changes to make. I have found it! It is me! I am the change that needs to happen. I have allowed frustration to drive me to near complcacency. Please forgive me for not leading as I should.

The lack of fire is my fault...the lack of passion for God and the lost is my fault. Noone in the church will be more on fire for God than me! Try it, I dare you!

Let me tell you where I have some serious changes to make:

1. I am going to spend more time with God!

That's it! What did you expect? One of my laundry lists. I cannot do it without God! I need more time with my heavenly Father. Its all about Him...right...then that's where I have to start...I need more of God in my life....NO...I WANT MORE OF GOD IN MY LIFE!

FREE LUNCH ANYBODY?

2009-03-10T03:39:00.000-07:00

How about a little fun for today's blog!

I had lunch with one of the most famous people on the planet yesterday. This is a very famous individual...and I had know idea my family had such a close connection. This person can be seen in recent photographs with the likes of Tom Cruise and Britney Spears. I about came unglued when Brooke, Laurie, and I had lunch with this person. Most of us have been shaped in one way or another by this person and others in their affiliations. This person is about to take on another world famous role. Laurie, Brooke and I were the first persons that they told about the new role. I was blown away that such a person is a personal friend to my family. Lunch was a mystery til this person identified themselves...it was wild! Absolutely noone knew that we had planned a lunch with this person...they are so famous we met in a quaint restraunt and their identity was concealed until we met. I HAD NO IDEA.

Their identity must be so well kept that I need you to guess up to 10 people. If the name makes the list I will take you to lunch, but I cannot tell you who it is. Seriously, they are that stinking famous that noone can even know who I am affiliated with.

When I found out who my lunch was with yesterday I litterally came out of my seat, high fived the person and sat in total awe!

Hints:
1. Quite the character
2. Its not Jesus
3. Pro athletes, politicians, and the like would do anything to meet this person...and come to find out I knew them and didn't even know I knew them!!!

Is Church A Dictatorship?

2009-03-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

IIII'mmm baaaaaaaack!

Gosh darn I missed you all! Its good to get back in the blogosphere. After a vacation like I have had...I need a break! Just kidding...all you fellow pastors out there be sure to take your much deserved time off as noone will force you to do it since you only work one day per week...and thats only for an hour.

Well, let me jump out of the ocean (vacation terms) right into the fire. I am a pretty regular follower of politics. It seems most politicians have "their " agenda. Isn't that true of most people? We all want it the way we would like to see it.

Politicians are the masters of promoting their own ideologies. Unfortunately, it seems that they surround themselves with those who offer blind followership. And when opposition arises those who oppose must be destroyed.

I actually have a soft spot for politicians. They say they want to make a difference and help the people. Unfortunately, the power they gain overtakes them and the working for the people seems to go out the window. As a leader, that happens to be a Christian, I would like to think that all I do is to better the people that follow me. Particularly, in their walk with Jesus.

The power given to a pastor is every bit as intoxicating as our politicians. We are given the authority to speak directly into the lives of people every single day. Some pastors speak into millions of lives daily by way of media resources. Other pastors find their sphere of influence to a hand full of followers. Regardless...there is a power that comes with that influence.

For years I have sought to find the proper balance of the use of the power granted to me by God to speak into the lives of His people. I abhor the mindset of its my way or the highway. At the same time I am frustrated by the lack of team work within His kingdom.

Toleration has crippled many churches that should have sought ethical ways to have their pastor removed from position. Other pastors have no business being in the place of leadership. I know that sounds harsh, but at times I have felt like I shouldn't be in leadership. My sin, my anger, my frustration, my mistakes, my attitude, my laziness, my selfishness and more have often brought me to the proverbial mirror and forced me to look at myself on many occasions.

On the other hand, some pastors have received unfair treatment at the hands of self-righteous, self-centered, undisciplined, rebellious, lying, cheating, cry-baby, equally frustrating, shallow, and may I say non-tithing church people. Any good pastor is going to get tithing in there some how. But, how are we to act with the power that is placed in our hands when it comes to leading the church?

My concern is that to many of us in authority rule more like dictators than those granted power from on high. I have been to the same conferences you have that encourage us to lead without worrying about what others think. We are told to surround ourselves with like minded people. I call them yes-men. Develop an up-yours mindset and push our agenda. Even brutally destroying those that object to our vision. Did you hear that...destroying those that don't agree with us! Sounds like Sadam Hussein.

Most Christians would consider themselves to be conservative, and thus detesting ideologies of liberalism being forced upon them. We openly criticize those that do things we don't like when they hold political power. We do that because we live in a country where we can disagree with our leaders. There are countries where the disagreement voiced concerning the leading regime could cost you your life.

So, why do we as leaders immediately go on the offensive when people don't see it like we do? How can we develop well oiled team-machines with yes-men? Why are ideas that aren't ours so intimidating?

Worse yet...how bout the extremist...who truly beleive that disagreement with them evokes the wrath of God for insubordination. Pastors that lead with fear tactics. Touch not my annointed...and that's me! God will get you if you disagree. This lack-of-leadership style scares me. But, I meet so many church folks that won't say anything for fear of what might happen to them. IF YOUR PASTOR IS NOT APPROACHABLE OR ACCOUNTABLE .... GET OUT! If fear tactics is your leaders response be very careful. So, fed up with church leaders that exalt their name above the Name above all Names.

Why do we have church leadership models that resemble dictatorships? I wonder what sort of modern day political model would actually work within the church?

Heading to Christ-Life Florida w/ Laurie & Brooke

2009-03-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

Laurie, Brooke and myself are preparing to be at the Christ-Life Florida campus this Monday night. Everyone make sure you come on out and bring a friend.

Guaranteed to be great night of fellowship & worship!

Laurie & Brooke are really excited about seeing everyone.

KEN TUCK SPEAKING AT CHRIST LIFE - ENTERPRISE CAMPUS

2009-03-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite people on the planet will be guest speaker at Christ Life Enterprise campus this Sunday. None other than Ken Tuck will be sharing the second part of DOA this week. Ken brings a challenging word that is full of conviction...pushing us to share Christ with people that desperately need Him.

Martha will accompany Ken...so y'all catch up with them and treat 'em good!

Great Service..Congrats to the New Band Members

2009-03-01T17:14:00.000-08:00

Just a shout out to all those who attended Christ-Life Enterprise campus this morning. It was a great crowd with lots of participation. We started a new series that I believe is going to impact the way we live for Christ.

Congrats to Chris and Gabe our newest band members!

New members will be taken into the church on Sunday December 15th. I will be on vacation this week so if anyone needs anything Brother Tony is in charge while I'm gone.

Christ Life Florida campus will meet Monday for a video message from Pastor Mike...

Love y'all see you next week,
PMS

Never Forget...March 1st...TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY

2009-02-28T21:41:00.001-08:00

March 1st is the two year anniversary of the killer tornado that struck our small town of Enterprise, AL. A day does not pass by that I don't think about what happened on that everntful afternoon. As most of us have put our lives back together there are parents and family members that March 1st will mark the anniversary of the worst day of their lives. Eight students and a woman in her house were killed on this day two years ago.

I guess it weighs so heavy on me since my daughter was one of the students in the school. I remember it was 1 pm and I was calling the school from the road out front asking them to let Brooke drive home...thank God they didn't let her out. It was pouring as hard as I had ever seen rain come down, and then it just stopped the sun came out and the humidity was crazy. So, I ran in to get her out of school. I remember behind me was an ominous cloud...but I thought nothing of it.

Ten minutes later I am on the phone with Laurie telling her to take cover as the tornado was heading our way. I remember calling Brooke to see where she was...the tornado had already entered that side of the school and she yelled dad get down... its here. So I dove on the floor face first and called Laurie...the final thing Laurie heard me say was I love you...I don't know whats going to happen... I love you baby...she could hear people screaming and the wind was blowing across my phone. Me and the girl beside took turns looking out the skylight as the tornado went over until we felt the suction pulling on us...that was freaky. I remember trying to dig my fingers into marble floors and yelling "in the name of Jesus...no". Then the ceiling tiles all sucked up, my ears popped and within seconds it was over.

I ran to get Brooke not completely aware of what had just happened. Brooke was in the band room and Mr. Ford had put her and other girls in a cubby hole while he shielded them from the debris. Along the way a person yelled..."pastor Mike please go check on my mother in a white thunderbird." When I went outside there was no white thunderbird. The wild thing was that the lady that I saw is a lady that I know from all the yard saling I do. I asked her months later if she found her mother. She stared at me and said "Mike I was not in the school". And I never found a lady in a white thunderbird. But right around the corner was the location where everyone was killed after ther the tornado. I oftern wonder why God spared me from turning that corner. Because if I would have seen AJ and Ryan I know I would have jumped in to help hold that wall.

Once outside it looked like a war zone. Being one of the very few adults in the area I quickly became a self appointed leader. I ended up in triage. What freaked me out was while organizing to get all the students over to Hillcrest Baptist another siren sounded and we were all outside. I remember kids coming out with broken legs, head wounds that I could see their skulls, injuries requiring stitches and more. Everyone had glass, dirt, celing tile and blood on them.

I will never forget the moment I heard..."Daddy, Daddy". I am crying right now thinking about it. We had no way to communicate with anyone. So, Brooke and I worked in triage until every student was accounted for. I remember so many parents coming to look for their kids...I had mine but there was rumors of trapped kids in third hall. I remember the Vadenzek family looking for their daughter, and all I could tell them that there were kids trapped in the school ...not knowing that their daughter was gone.

I remember Ronnie Gilley coordinating all the guys with 4 wheel drives because we had to get people to the hospital. I remember using tables for gurnies. Carrying kids and adults with serious injuries to trucks that could go over the downed trees and poles. I will never forget Justin Swasey, our youth pastor, walking up to me like he was in shock. He was covered with debris...he lookes really scared. He had been in the exact area where much of the damage and injury took place. Four hours later we arrived home...it was the first that my wife had heard from us. She told me calls from all over the country had come and she could not even confirm that Brooke and I were alive as some deaths had already been reported.

After the TV and Dothan Eagle interview Brooke and I did. We ended up on every major and minor news outlet. Trust me they tracked us down once our name was in the media. I remember the Today Show and Good Morning America crews fighting over who was getting the first interview with us.

For the next month we did all we could to help Enterprise recover. Its hard to believe it has been two years because I remember it like it was yesterday. I will Never Forget!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVYpZZKv55I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=greWwxoO-i4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLw20_JefVg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLw20_JefVg

New Series ~ DOA ~ Starts Sunday

2009-02-28T10:18:00.000-08:00

Don't miss our new series starting tomorrow!!!!

GIVE UP ... Final Thoughts

2009-02-27T13:05:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a week...a man commits to put his wife first and he's getting a divorce. Isn't it amazing what happens when we read into something instead of just reading something. It tells me that too many people like to gossip.

If the posts I made insuated that Laurie and I are having trouble, then you are a genius! Unfortunately, no lines to read between. I have come to realize how sinicle (not sure how to spell that) we can be at times.

I assure you I love my wife and the last three days I have rose to the challenge, and I feel like I am on track with what God wanted me to do. This is not a do it for a little while change...this is a permanent change that I want to make.

One thing I have learned from this...in giving up all that I desire and focusing on my wife...it has become contagious...you won't believe this...I find I am giving up to other folks as well. I have not focused on my dreams and goals all week. Now, keep in mind I am 100% committed to what God has called me to do. But, sometimes my personal ambition gets weeded amongst Gods will. I am still doing what it is that I know God has called me to do. Taking Care of My Family! Pastoring!! Leading!!! But all the assumed results has not been my focus. You aren't going to believe this. I even feel better about myself! Trust me there is noone who gets upset with Mike Shroades more than Mike Shroades.

I will still pursue the will of God...but I have come to the conclusion that some of my goals were all about me. The hoped for results have not been accomplished, but in other areas we have over achieved. Regardless, its time for me to re-prioritize some things in my life.

Sometimes you have to give up to go up!

GIVE UP con't

2009-02-26T16:02:00.000-08:00

I am giving up .... I quit ... I hate this junk ... I am never going to make it....just kidding...my mother has been checking up on me but she doesn't know that I know.

HI MOM!

Just to bring some clarity to this thought of GIVE UP, basically so my mother will not worry about me....

"And you husbands must love your wives with the same love Christ showed the church. HE GAVE UP HIS LIFE FOR HER (Ephesians 5:26 NLT)."

I was in Florida taking a walk and praying. I asked God to do something in my wife's life that concerned following the will of God. During that walk there was not some sort of audible voice. It was just me kinda praying in my heart to God.

When I got back to my hotel room the scripture listed above was what I read. I bet I have read that a thousand times. But the latter part felt like God was tatooing it to the front of my brain. I still see it even as I type....HE GAVE UP HIS LIFE FOR HER!

I have always loved my wife...I have heard all the messages on loving and serving...But for some reason God has really been bringing this home. No matter what I do in life I need my wife by my side. And God took that few minutes to rock my world. It was as if He showed me what Jesus could have been if He would not have been crucified at the age of 33. How awesome, influential and successful he could have been if he could have lived longer. HE GAVE IT ALL UP FOR THE CHURCH... that's me and you.

And it hit me that God was calling me to do the same out of love for my wife. Just like Christ laid his life down for us...I am to lay my life, my dreams, my goals, my whatever down for her...actually He has called me and every husband out there to give up our lives for her. All because we love her.

GIVE UP! Con't

2009-02-25T03:02:00.000-08:00

I am up early this morning blogging this seriously huge challenge that God has given to me. Debbie sent me an email in response to the one I sent the entire church yesterday.

I have to tell you this first...some people are so caring...that one guy came running to my house when he saw my post yesterday afraid that something was wrong. Far from it! But, the gesture was a rare showing of concern and it made me feel good that someone cared enough to drop all they were doing just to check on me. I promise my marriage is as good as it has ever been. I just desire to make it better...

Anyway, back to Debbie. She knows me as well as anyone and she hit it right on the head. I have to be quiet and listen. Anyone who knows me is saying...someone finally told him to shut-up. In response to her email I found myself in tears over a painful situation my wife has been going through recently...much to my surprise she has been going through it for years because she goes through it every time I go through it!

What is it? The loss of good church members. The problem is that I look at losing people from a different set of lenses than she does. You see sometimes for different reasons people choose to leave the church they attend. Laurie and I have lost good people just like every other pastor that is out there in this field. Its part of being in the ministry! I have always taken it so personally. It has been a real growth process for me to let go when people feel it is time to move on.

The difference is that I look at losing numbers, and Laurie looks at losing friends. I look at how it will effect me and my job. She looks at the years of memories. The love that has been shared. The relationships that are, sad to say, coming to an end. Not that I don't think about those things its just I worry about what other people might think... I worry about that kind of stuff too much (there's an honest confession).

We have a couple in our church that we have loved for years and they have loved us. A few weeks ago they told me that they felt like God was moving them elsewhere. Amazingly, I have handled it pretty good. Unfortunately, I have watched my wife cry over another potential friend that she is losing. They have assured us it is nothing personal, nothing wrong with the church just a need to move on to the next phase of their lives. I am losing a great leader who does alot in the church....Laurie is losing a great friend. Do you see the difference in how we look at things? People always say that we are still going to hang-out, be friends, visit with you, and so on...but it never happens...not in 20 years of ministry has that happened.

I lay this out there to say in all the years and all the people that have come and gone. I always have looked at how it will effect me and the church. I have rarely taken the time to seriously reflect on how it has hurt my lovely wife through the years. You see I lose people, but she loses friends. I have been upset with people that used my wife...to babysit and then walk out on her. But, I have never really considered the emotional loss Laurie goes through. It really is our loss. We miss many of the people that have left for one reason or another.

By the way thank you to all of you that prayed for me yesterday. As things arose in everyday living I feel like I responded much better than previously stated. I am laying down my dreams, my goals, my desires to better serve and honor my wife. Not that I never loved, honored, treasured her before, because I have the greatest wife on the planet. That's where I used to say greatest pastors wife, but she not a pastors wife...she's my wife and I love her.

It has been one of the largest challenges I have ever felt God give me....but I have to give up to go up! One day I hope to show you the full picture! God willing!

God Has Challenged Me To Give Up!

2009-02-24T11:10:00.000-08:00

Below is an email I sent to all those on our church email list. Its just a glimpse at something that God has asked of me...and it is killing me! As time goes on I will reveal the entirety of what is going on in this challenge to give up. Yesterday I stunk it up so bad that it turned into an argument. God, I really stink at this but I know you are trying to work something out me more than something into me...I never realized how selfish I really am.

Has God ever asked you to give something up? Something you dreamed of...worse
yet something that you thought He had placed in your heart. God has really
challenged me in a certain area and He has asked me to give up on something.

This thought really came to me in a time of prayer. I thought I was
praying for my wife, but I was praying for me. I asked God to do something
in my
wife's life and God spoke to me about what I needed to do to make that
happen...it goes against the grain of everything that I am as a leader. God
revealed to me that Laurie didn't need something .... I did. Then, God
showed me
in his Word that I have to give up...in the process He revealed to
me that He
gave something up for His church.

I am failing
miserably...I am terrible
at what God has asked me to do...worse yet I am
not good at giving up...this
challenge is killing me...but I know I have to
do it. Please pray for me! It
involves putting my wife before my dreams, my
goals, my desires, and my anything
else us selfish men like.

I typically will take a God challenge by the
horns and go for it. I wish this
was over and I haven't even figured out how to
get it started.

New Series Starts Sunday

2009-02-24T04:27:00.000-08:00

D.O.A.

Begins March 1st

Born dead
Born to die
Die daily
Dead, Dead, Dead
Then we go to heaven...but we have to be dead

The first series designed to kill you back to life!

Dead On Arrival Preview from Justin swasey on Vimeo.

Sunday Wrap-Up!!!

2009-02-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

Today's service was very enjoyable...sorry I exited so quick was not feeling well...late night...bad race track food...and felt like throwing up. Plus I ate something that when I put it in my mouth I thought a mous had gotten into the hamburger mix for the nachos at the race...uhh...that turns my stomach every time I think of it.

Just to wrap the day up...we concluded our lovefest series.

Do you love Jesus? Requires more than lip service...it requires action! The response Simon gave in John 21 is like ours...yes, the first time...yes, the second time...yes, the third time, but with irritation. Thus is ministry at times. There is irritation...but we must continue to feed the sheep.

The first time this question was asked to Simon he was told to feed the lambs. We must always have a culture within the church that knows how to handle new Christians. They need the milk of Gods word. Those of us that are mature in the Lord must allow the baby Christians to receive all the nourishment they can. If they are not strengthened the wolves will find them to be easy prey. Also, we must love our children and provide adequate ministry for them.

The second question was asked to Simon and he was told to tend to the sheep. We must never quit caring about and for each other. The world knows we are following Jesus by our love for each other. Please church be sure you get this. It is essential to you being a discple of Christ and a witness for Him.

The final question he asked Simon was the same but it irritated him. Unless you have been in the ministry for some time you may not understand that. There are times that dealing with sheep is irritating. Usually that's because the mature sheep are the ones you typically don't have to tend to, but there will come a time when even the mature within the church will need us. We must be there for those that are always there for others. They also need us as pastors to bring healthy spiritual food to the pulpit. Unbalanced theology will turn the stomach of mature sheep.

So, do you love Jesus? do your actions prove it?

Open Post Day!

2009-02-20T04:07:00.000-08:00

Today I am having open dialogue! Ask a question...leave a comment...whatever! Will be in and out all day...going to Supercross tomorrow. I will conclude the Lovefest series Sunday. Pastor Shane will be preaching at the Florida campus on Monday.

Shout Out to Christ Life Church-Enterprise

2009-02-19T21:18:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all...this will be my final post of this very eventful day. Many people may wonder why I have put a 20 year relationship on the line...its because I truly love the church (the people in the church) that I pastor. And I cannot stand back and blindly let people oppress God fearing folks like you.

The Potter's House did not deserve the things that Word of Life brought on them. I am fighting for a group of people that I love. You are worth fighting for. Its not just my battle, but until God tells me to shut-up my opinion will be made known.

Today I have had a WOL board member rake me over the coals, but I have been prepared for that for some time. On the other hand, Laurie and I have had dozens of wonderful people (even Clevelandites) contact us with nothing but love and support. Some folks we have not seen in 15 to 20 years.

I honestly believe that God had me hear for such a time as this. Sorry we have spent so many years dealing with this unfortunate situation. Once this chapter is finished only God knows where we will find ourselves.

You are good people and don't let anyone convince you that you are not. I know I push you hard sometimes...only because I beleive we have seriously untapped potential. I hope to see those abilities completely tapped one day!

Two Ministers DENY Being On Word of Life Board

2009-02-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to be fair I need to post some communications I have received. Recently, I have been asked by several people for the list of board members for Word of Life. I guess it was about one year ago that I received a letter from Dr. David Bishop that he was not and neither has he ever been part of the Word of Life board. I have never added Dr. Bishop to that list since that time.

Today I received an email from Dr. Mark Hanby's office. This is a portion of that email....

"Thank you for your email of concern. Just to be clear, Dr. Hanby NEVER agreed to be on the Board of Directors for Pastor Hank Davis. The first time that Dr. Hanby was aware that he was supposedly on the Board was a few years ago when the church was going through difficult times. At that time, Dr. Hanby called and made it clear that he had never been asked to serve on the Board of Directors, nor was he aware that his name had been listed as a member of the Board of Directors."

But, I am probably still the trouble making rebellious liar! All I ever wanted was to help the church I pastored. Word of Life knew when they asked me to pastor in Enterprise that I call it like I see it. Word of Life has done so much spiritual harm to me and others through the years that there are people that are scared to say anything. Well, I am not! And anyone who has said anything against them faces the ridicule of insubordination. And trust me the ridicule is mental torture. I would be glad to share my story of the first time Hank and his elder nailed me to the wall as a young leader in search of a mentor, but I was stupid enough to trust him again and again. That was my fault!

OLD CHURCH LOCATION - FORCLOSED & AUCTIONED

2009-02-18T15:27:00.000-08:00

Love me or hate me you will always no where I stand with you. Today was a heartbreaking day for me. I have tried not to dwell on it, but I have to inform all the good folks of what used to be The Potter's House of some unfortunate news.

The World of Lies officials allowed the property that we payed on for years to go into foreclosure. Today it was auctioned on the county courthouse steps. All the idiots had to do was sign the property over to us as they said they would do.

I SUGGEST THAT ALL INVOLVED WITH WORD OF LIFE BOARD SHOULD BE FORCED INTO RESIGNATION BY THOSE THAT THEY ARE ACCOUNTABLE TO...OH YEAH, THEY HAVE NO ACCOUNTABILITY!!!

If you would like to know the names of the board that did this to the church let me know and I will email a copy of the board members and the ministries they are affiliated with. Some are pastoring large churches, conference speakers and Christian television owners. You may want to know who they are so you can boycott them.

Lately, it has been a huge struggle as I go into public and many say they read about the church being foreclosed on in the paper. Many were going to the auction because the property is very valuable. I guess what annoys me...is the number of pastors that wanted information...but only a couple even cared enough to ask if they could do anything to help. To be honest I have been really put off by the lack of sensitivity by many of the Christian leaders in the Enterprise area. I pray God will give me a chance to be a blessing if this ever happens to another church...or anything like it!

Good bye old friend...you saw alot of people come to Christ! You provided us with alot of great memories!

Florida Campus Doubles In Size

2009-02-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

It has only been since the beginning of 2009 since Christ-Life Church has launched out in the Daytona area. Great things are happening....God is moving, People are responding, and I am pumped!

In this short time there has been over 50 visitors! There has been very steady increase in attendance week by week! The good people in Florida are ready for a move of God. It has been amazing. They show up hungry for God! That's what it takes!! I believe they are sick of the status quo!!!

In this short time they have doubled in size....DID YOU HEAR THAT....THEY DOUBLED IN SIZE!

Check out this short interview (and hotel complaint) with Florida Campus Pastor Shane Braucht...

Heading To Christ-Life Church Florida Campus

2009-02-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

All you down in our Florida campus area. We are going to have an awesome service at our new location @ the Pelican Cove Club House in Edgewater. We have secured that building for the next year by the blessings of God...and the relentless pursuit of Pastor Shane. I appreciate all of you who are giving so much to make this happen. It takes everyone doing their part to make a ministry a success. Just keep up the good work!

Justin and I are headed your way. We are ready for some intense time with Jesus and fellowship with some great people.

Everyone in the area is invited to attend Monday's service as we will get started at 7 pm. Call someone and invite a friend. Come expecting! Its gonna be good!

Valentine Shout Out

2009-02-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is just around the corner. This blog is dedicated to all you love birds. Give a shout out to that special Valentine by posting a comment on this blog post. Or share your most memorable Valentines Day.

Excuses Are Like Armpits

2009-02-12T09:27:00.000-08:00

I am forever thankful for some of my old coaches. My old football coach was one of the best running backs in West Virginia high school football. His name was Mr. Springer...we affectionately called him hound-dog. He had some jaws that drooped just a little and he always had a big wad of Levi Garrett in his mouth. It was often hard to understand him. His chewing you out often sound like this...

'monshroasyagoinahidatholernot

But man could he inspire me to play some ball. It was Coach Springer who taught me to lower my shoulder and run people over. He made me want to rip someones head off on the defensive side. His coaching even spurred me to a 56 point basketball game my freshman year. There's one thing that old hound-dog still preaches today if you have a desire to be good at something....

scusesrlikearmpiswealgodemndayallstank

My wife hates when I get talking about my old coaches because she never knows what might come out of my mouth. Through the years coaches and teachers made more of an impact on me than just about any other professional group of people. I always admired them as they seemed to push me to desire greatness.

Old hound-dog would take our chin strap off and beat it acrossed our helmet while he screamed in our face. His staff was equally as influential. If coaches today coached like they did we would either have men coming out of high school or the whole coaching staff would be in prison. With our culture probably the latter.

His assistant coaches were Mr. Wells and Mr. Eskra. Mr. Eskra never took any crap...my cousin called him by his first name one day and Eskra put him to the ceiling with one hand and informed him if he ever did that again he would be suspended...guess what I still don't call him by his first name...and he has given me permission to do so. Mr. Wells was always the encourager...he wanted hard work but he told you when you did good. It was off the field that coach Wells said something to me that I have carried for years. He put this in my yearbook, "Mike, you have the world at your fingertips and all you have to do is go after it."

I have learned that it takes both personalities to truly motivate me...someone who will get in my face and at the same time encourage me along the way. Coach Springer taught me that constructive criticism is good. But the thing I love is....

ARMPITS ARE LIKE EXCUSES WE ALL HAVE THEM AND THEY ALL STINK!!!

Cheaters Never Win

2009-02-11T15:16:00.000-08:00

I can tell I am getting older as I feel like I am constantly trying to give good advice to young leaders. I was told as a young boy playing sports was that cheaters never win. Some of the challenges I have faced through the years are dealing with super-zealous, immature, well-intentioned, under prepared young leaders that do not understand the process. If you are not committed to the process you are cheating yourself and those God has called you to serve.

Its not just young leaders that forgo the process. A disgraced pastor became part of our church some time ago. His immorality coupled with bad decisions had cost him the ability to continue in the church he was leading. He immediately dove into the ministries of our church. Going above and beyond the call of duty. So far above the call of duty that in a short while I had red-flags going up every time I saw him.

At the onset he came to me and asked where do you see me in this ministry? I was honest and told him he just needed to sit back take it in and get ministered to. Wisdom told me that he did not need to jump right in. He began meeting every first time visitor at our front door, and before they could be greeted by the greeters he would have their names and invite them to his house after the service. After a while many told me that made them feel very uncomfortable.

After a while this pastor confessed to me his offense that I did not have him in a leadership position. He attacked my staff, Told me I was intimidated by him. He lied. Ran my messages down in front of others....especially if they enjoyed the message. The list could go on. All this because I told him he needed to wait to re-enter the ministry because he and his new wife were not ready to lead. Then he called me after a service and told me he and someone who I had mentored for years was starting a new church. I firmly rebuked him and took necessary actions to protect the church.

What was his problem? Not willing to go through the process. A problem that many potentially good leaders face. If you don't go through the process you are cheating yourself and those that God has called you to lead.

Recently, Alex Rodriquez, one of the greatest baseball players of all time confessed to using steroids. He said it was out of ignorance, youth, bad influences and more. In reality he knew he was good and tried to speed up the process by cheating. Because he cheated it will tarnish his role in the history of baseball and may cost him his spot in the hall of fame. No matter how good ... how ready...how anointed you think you are don't forgo the process.

CHEATERS NEVER WIN!

Integrity Matters

2009-02-10T06:27:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have noticed that there is a mindset that has developed in the church that we must do whatever it takes to get ahead. Unfortunately, that desire has made it seem as if integrity does not matter.

I remember a few years ago attending a satelite conference at Open Door Baptist in Enterprise. This was a John Maxwell conference. One of the keynote speakers was motivationalist Zig Ziglar. He was emphatic about the importance of integrity. He shared that he doesn't even go to lunch with his secretary to avoid the appearance of wrong doing. He adressed the situation of former President, Bill Clinton. I remember him looking right in the camera..pointing his finger and proclaiming...Mr. Clinton integrity does matter.

It seems we like to point the finger at others while we deviate in our own areas. That is what I call hypocritical! Jesus spoke about these things when he said, 'why do you desire to remove a splinter from your brothers eye when you have a log in yours.'

I am the first to admit that I struggle in some areas just like other folks struggle in some areas. I have learned that most people are willing to offer grace in an admitted struggle. But, the hypocritical out-right lack of integrity is something that can become a stigma that is nearly impossible to remove. So I am crying out for integrity in our churches, and especially among our leaders.

Some keys to helping you achieve a life of integrity:

Allow 2 or 3 people in your life that have the liberty to say anything they need to say.
Confess sin immediately, most of us don't need someone else to tell us when we sin.
If you need to make something right with someone, sooner is better than later.
Personal retreats are good for times of personal reflection.
Prayer will keep you close to God. Journaling your prayer time may help!
Bombard yourself with the Word! Renew that mind!
Be accountable to someone that you respect as a spiritual leader.
Do not let anything keep you from regular worship services. Connect to a local church.
If a problem becomes serious you may want to consider professional counseling. Counseling is better than a life of constant compromise.
Admit your weaknesses...in our weakness He is made strong!
Be careful who you hang with. Birds of a feather flock together.
Quit trying to be in control. An old church slogan comes to mind...let go and let God!
Admit when you are wrong.
Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in every area of your life.

INTEGRITY MATTERS!!!

Lessened Depression

2009-02-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

I have made a startling observation that is the direct result of something I now know that I had to do. For many years I have journaled. Not always faithful but I try to keep a journal of thoughts, ideas, and prayer times.

In reading over many of the notes over the last 4 or 5 years I noticed an unusually high amount of comments on how I was feeling down emotionally. Also, was the constant concerns of being connected to a ministry that lacked integrity.

Since coming out from under the control and manipulation of Word of Life I have not noted the first depressed feeling...that has been over a year. There has to be something to that. I feel like I have been released from some sort of cult or something.

I see people all over the world who are under the spiritual control of their leaders. I never let those people control me, but I always worried what they would do to destroy my name because they have done that with so many others. NOW I COULD CARE LESS WHAT THEY THINK OR SAY!!!

The reason I think I am even really thinking about the situation is because there are so many in the community who have read that the old church is going up for auction. That's right instead of signing it back to us as they said. The regime let it go into foreclosure. Really kingdom minded aren't they.

Everyone out there in blog land... spiritual leaders are there to lead you in your walk with Christ not to control you.

Does your pastor require body guards just to come to church? Some church settings I have visited seemed more like mafia than anything. Are your spiritual leaders approachable and accessible? Remember in large churches there is usually a chain of command you will need to follow before getting to the top. Has your leader been accused of one immoral incident after another? Sexual and financial misconduct is usually at the top, but also includes the rebuke of others when asked the simplest of questions. Is your pastor selling what he preaches about the most? Jesus would probably flip tables in most of our church foyers!!!

Don't be afraid to ask questions...if you find that avoidance, lies and misreprsentations of the facts are what you get....take my advice and LEAVE! RUN! Get the heck out of there! Be careful they will prophecy your gloom and doom, but remember God has not given you the spirit of fear.

I am alarmed at the number of pastors who are more protective of their names than that of God. When there is more offense over the questioning of a leader as opposed to the taking of God's name in vain that scares the crap out of me.

If we as leaders expect people to walk with integrity and loyalty then we must lead the charge. Why should we expect loyalty if we offer none!

Anyway it is nice not to be so dang depressed all the time.

Lovefest Con't Sunday

2009-02-07T17:54:00.000-08:00

Too tired to go into any sort of detail. Tomorrow can be an exceptional day if we come expecting God to meet us there. I believe He wants to be with us. Invite friends and go get 'em. See you in the morning

Gargantuous Shift Is Taking Place

2009-02-04T23:46:00.000-08:00

For the past several weeks there has been this lurking feeling of something crazy happening. I know that things just haven't felt normal, and thank God for it. I can only describe what is going on is like an earthquake. All we see is debris and dust circulating in the air. But, what I am feeling is that there is this gargantua of a shift taking place. Its like heaven and hell are battling it out and earth is caught in the middle. No doubt who will win!

Those of you that are ready and believing you better get ready. I wonder what it will look like when all the dust settles?

Its like a shaking has begun. Take root...you will see things much clearer when the dust settles. Churches that are poised for growth are about to explode. Unfortunately, some will implode! Those that have nothing to offer hurting lost people will collapse. Some will struggle with the intended purpose of refocusing and even redefining their purpose. We must stand poised and ready to offer hope...hope found only in Jesus Christ!

Even mega-churches will feel the impact of what is taking place, but they too must refocus. No time to rely on programs and marketing agendas. Not that I am opposed to those things. I think God is simply wanting all of us to get focused on Him. Totally caught up in what He is doing!

Financial blessing will abound to those that are willing to give even when the mentality is to hord. Don't lose hope...offer it!!!

LOVE Your Church Starts Tonight @ 6:30

2009-02-04T09:24:00.001-08:00

Well tonight is the first official membership class for Christ-Life Church (Enterprise). I am excited as we have laid out an exciting tract that can lead you from membership all the way to leadership if you so desire.

The membership class is LOVE Your Church. This is a four week class that will take place in my home every Wednesday during the month of Febuary. Child care is being provided so come if you don't have a baby sitter. This class will start promptly at 6:30 and will be finished at 7:30ish.

The classes are:

L-eadership
O-pportunity
V-ision
E-xcitement

Get in on the ground floor!!! For those who finish the entire four weeks it will enable you to then get on the ministry tract. This is designed for those who are interested in using their spiritual gifts to serve within the church. After the ministry tract you can begin the process of becoming a ministry leader....which can lead to being asked to be on the visionary leadership team. It just depends on where you feel God wants you to be.

There will be a cookout for all new members in June/July (TBA). This cookout will be for all those who successfully complete the first tract in Febuary or May.

Looking forward to seeing you tonight!!!

Just a reminder to all those who have been in leadership. You have to take this class to remain in leadership.

Message Reflections From Yesterday

2009-02-02T04:32:00.000-08:00

Still buzzing from yesterday...what a difference a week makes...we had to pull chairs out and add two rows. Worship was as boisterous as I have heard it in years...there needs to be holy noise in the house of God. Finances were up..PTL!!!

Do you remember the simplicity of John 3:16 in yesterdays message?

1. God loves
2. God gave
3. We receive
4. We share

EXPLAIN THE LOVE OF GOD TO AT LEAST ONE PERSON WHO DOES NOT KNOW CHRIST THIS WEEK AND THEN INVITE THEM PICK THEM UP AND BRING THEM TO CHURCH!

Super Sunday!

2009-02-01T12:42:00.000-08:00

Today is usually the day I am pumped up for the Super Bow. But, today was Super Sunday. I am just riding the wave of Gods presence. It was so cool feeling the presence of God in such a huge way. I brought a gentleman that I saw walking down the street. He said he was praying God would send someone. I am trusting God to allow us to minister to more poor and homeless people in our community.

The worship was intense today. WOW! God's presence still has my mind dwelling on His awesome power. And most importantly we saw six or seven people come to Christ! AMEN!

God is worthy of all our praise...keep it up...let's keep the big mo rolling!

Lovefest Begins Sunday!

2009-01-30T22:15:00.000-08:00

Lovefest!

New Series Begins Sunday!!

I love you , man!!!

Sunday's 10:30

Coffe & Donuts @ 10:00

We Serve A God Of Miracles

2009-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am just so humbled by God. Like King David proclaimed we serve a God of miracles. Last week something happened that I felt was a direct attack that the devil launched against our finances. OF COURSE THE DEVIL WILL ATTACK A LEADER IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD WHO IS WILLING TO MAKE A RUCKUS. Laurie and I have really upped our giving since the economy has taken a down turn. I don't want to go into detail, but God has the ability to take the devils attacks and bring glory to Himself. I was so under attack that I was getting a really bad attitude, even towards God, as to why He would allow things to go wrong. I looked up and said you have to do something...DID HE EVER...MORE THAN WE CAN ASK OR IMAGINE.

The truth is that the church finances were so down this month that I was not able to receive a paycheck on Monday. That stunk and I was not a happy camper! Wednesday it was brought to my attention that a brother in Christ was struggling financially. The Lord put it on me and Laurie's heart to help this good brother and his family. Now, remember Sunday...passionate giving will hurt...well I was battling, but my principles kicked in. My principle is that when there is a need and you have the ability to meet the need you do it. Faith without works is dead...it was exactly the scripture God laid on my heart at Tony's during prayer the other night.

To make a long story short God blessed me with a nice sale on Ebay...but that's not all! Wednesday we decided to buy groceries for that friend...Thursday someone sent a tithe to the church that actually put us ahead of budget and I got paid....I cannot tell how many times God has come through. When you're faithful to Him and His word. He is faithful to you. I truly have experienced the pouring out a blessing that you cannot contain this week. Come and talk to me about and I will tell you the whole story.

Ministry Opportunity - SUPER BOWL FELLOWSHIP

2009-01-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

During a ministry leaders meeting Amy talked about a Super Bowl outreach. Due to circumstances beyond my control I cannot work on the outreach as I wanted to. So, if someone wants to pick up and put a fellowship together. Just call me and I will give you the ideas...its fairly simple.

Happy Birthday Justin

2009-01-27T23:48:00.000-08:00

We have an awesome youth pastor...HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUSTIN!! XOXOXOXOXO I know you love when I hug you!

I have no clue what I am doing!

2009-01-25T22:37:00.000-08:00

I am going to bed with this thought tonight after watching the first video of the Purpose Driven Passion series. I have no clue what I am doing! After following the blog of other pastors that have been in it as long as I have they feel the same way, but they seem to be doing it right.

I question myself in exposing how I really feel. But I am convinced that I have no clue how this church thing is supposed to go. I have tried everything and done everything I know to try and do. Yet our church just is not growing....and yes I mean numerically! Which concerns me whether we are growing spiritually!

One time a couple years ago I borrowed something from Hillcrest Baptist called high attendance Sunday. They had so much success doing it! It was simple..invite a friend, we will preach Jesus, and we will give them a good meal. They had people everywhere...their members brought friends and family. They experienced one of their highest attendance to date. So I thought I have to try that! I remeber that two people brought someone. And our attendace was an all time low...we had like 30 in church that day. So, I said I will never do that again!

Our church is full of nice people, the music is good, and the preaching isn't even that bad if I say so myself. So, I have no idea why we are not growing. Which leads me to believe that I have no clue what I am doing! I know I sound like a babbling results oriented nut case, but after nine years of preaching about church growth, in just about every area there is to preach about, that we would have grown in some of them.

This past week I encouraged everyone to invite others, emailed our entire list on several occasions, set a goal of 100 people and we have less than we did a week ago. I preach on money and we have the lowest offering ever. I have the reverse effect syndrom. If I preach on it, or heaven forbid that I brag about something good in our church, its like we just stop. I teach about church growth...we get smaller. I teach on financial blessing...noone gives. I have threatened to teach on sex (within the confines of marriage of course) and see what happens there! Anyway, I just don't have a clue! And that's what I will wrestle with as I go off to bed tonight. Can someone help me? Or I am going to preach on sex!

You Have To Want It!

2009-01-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

Today I shared what I would want for Christ-Life Church in Enterprise if I could just give it to them right now!

1. To be the largest church in the area!
2. To have money to do whatever they needed!
3. To have a paid full time staff for ministy leadership!
4. To have a modern facility used to proclaim Christ around the world!

It's like anything else...you have to want it! Do you want it?