Submit yourself therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7
What does it mean to resist? I think that it involves more work than we at first want to think about. When you resist something, it is not as simple as a wayward "no". It usually has a repetitive tone to it, more along the lines of...no, No, NO, NO NO NO NO NO! I remember back in high school, the idea of resisting offers of this, and ideas of doing that, was not simply a matter of a simple "no". Usually, it was a constant barrage of questions, and continued petitions, until the point got clearly communicated....."I am not going there". A passive, unagressive stance would usually result in a reinforced response followed by constant pressure in order to push me in a firm direction of "yes" or "no". I think in my view of Satan's dealing it is much the same way.
He will push and push and push, he won't simply turn his back on his desire to break you down with a simple response. He is looking to "devour" like a lion. I have never had the misfortune to have to resist a physical lion, but I would bet that the blood hungry, huge, beast wouldn't turn it's back and flee if I looked at it half heartedly and said..."Hey, Mr. Lion, no, I am not interested in fighting you or anything difficult like that, so why don't you please turn around and leave me alone, is that, cool?" Nah, I think I might have a limb missing after a conversation like that.....
So how do I handle a lion that wants to devour me? More than likely I'm going to have to dig in...face him head on, and prove to him that he will not over power me, and that in the end, he will be wasting his energy and effort. After a battle, where he has gained no ground, he will eventually realize the power behind my stance, and give up. Then he will flee. The battle will be over after much intense struggle, and testing to prove that I won't give an inch, not one inch to him. That will not be without work, and pain, and struggle, but in the end......after he flees, I will stand in a place of victory over his schemes.....and will be able to return to fight another day.
"Do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you." 1 Peter 4:12
Got hit pretty hard this morning....so just getting my thought out...hope this encourages!
-J
Monday, March 05, 2007
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuna Fish
What is so wrong with eating Tuna Fish for lunch everyday? At the office, apparently...alot! I figured out a long time ago, that I don't have time to cook, and to eat out every day is about the most expensive thing you can do besides maybe going furniture shopping at Neiman Marcus. So, I developed a solution to solve the problem of cost and convenience.....TUNA FISH. Ever since college, I have been a die hard tuna fan. Where else can you get 20g of Protein for .50? And now, they sell Starkist in pouches that have different flavors mixed in like "Sweet and Sour", "Lemon Pepper" and "Hickory Smoked"...yea, that is right "Hickory Smoked" Tuna..... So, in order to get out of Wal-Mart with lunch for the week, and to save a few bucks....I buy about 10 pouches of tuna for the week. (Two a day).
Well, I have already been given the reputation at work as being the guy that will take any left overs...eat anything, and basically has no shame in all things food. So, here recently everyone has begun to take notice of my tuna eating extravaganza at lunch. Most everyone is sick and tired of smelling sweet and sour tuna fish.....and they are all quick to make a fuss when they see me grab my two separate paper plates in order to put my tuna on (yea, one for hickory smoked, and the other of course, for sweet and sour). But, that is okay. I add a few pieces of wheat bread, and I am getting away with a lunch for about $3.00 (yea the pouches are a tad more expensive than the cans, but hey the opportunity cost that is saved far exceeds the extra $1.00), also there is about 40 grams of protein for lunch right there....and for everyone who has ever tried to stay on a high protein diet, you know that this is most certainly a bargain. So, as I sat here eating my Tuna Fish....and offending everyone in the office, as the guy that always stinks up the place...I decided to document this moment, and give a little encouragement to all the other tuna fans out there!
Well, I have already been given the reputation at work as being the guy that will take any left overs...eat anything, and basically has no shame in all things food. So, here recently everyone has begun to take notice of my tuna eating extravaganza at lunch. Most everyone is sick and tired of smelling sweet and sour tuna fish.....and they are all quick to make a fuss when they see me grab my two separate paper plates in order to put my tuna on (yea, one for hickory smoked, and the other of course, for sweet and sour). But, that is okay. I add a few pieces of wheat bread, and I am getting away with a lunch for about $3.00 (yea the pouches are a tad more expensive than the cans, but hey the opportunity cost that is saved far exceeds the extra $1.00), also there is about 40 grams of protein for lunch right there....and for everyone who has ever tried to stay on a high protein diet, you know that this is most certainly a bargain. So, as I sat here eating my Tuna Fish....and offending everyone in the office, as the guy that always stinks up the place...I decided to document this moment, and give a little encouragement to all the other tuna fans out there!
Friday, February 23, 2007
Keep Stepping Towards the Light
What does it mean to follow Christ?
It means to walk in the light.
What is the limit of the light?
Only the limit WE place on it
We live in a world of darkness. Everything we have ever known before Christ is dark. He is the light. How much do we limit what God can do by the amount of faith we have in Him? If only we could tap into the faith....tap into the flood gate of faith inside. Forget looking around us for understanding of God and His power, and simply take Him on faith. What if our first reaction was to bow our heads and raise our hands? What if our first thought was how He was glorified? What if we ran everything through a filter of pure light? If only we could discipline ourselves to JUDGE EVERYTHING by HIM, and not allow ourselves to let the world dictate to us what He is capable of. How do we get to the place of letting go of our own selfish motivations and limitations we place on the Holy One. How long will we chalk up an experience, a word, a direction, up to coincidence, and realize underneath is Him....the TRUE WORD, which was in the beginning, before everything else.
How do we change out perspective to view everything by Him, HE is the TRUTH, therefore HE is the standard of measurement. Through HIM we gain wisdom, and truth....everything that doesn't line up with HIM is false.
If we would just seek the light....SEEK IT LIKE WE SEEK MONEY, POWER, RESPECT, and countless other worthless endeavors. SEEK THE LIGHT, it is always shining...the question is are we really looking for it? Are we really wanting to find it? Or are we happy placing it in the small compartment in the back of our minds, and trying to forget about it for the sake of the world's standards?
When will we see that HE is the gauge, HE is the perspective, HE is the TRUTH, everything else is false.
Of course, we wouldn't be expected to measure the distance we have traveled in our cars in kilometers, if we had never learned what a kilometer was. If we never had an understanding of the measurement system, there would be no way to understand how to gauge anything by that standard. So how is the problem solved? Learn the standard...truly understand it. Then the ability to gauge by it can occur.
Seek truth...in the the Word. Seek to learn it and understand it. From that a gauge begins to develop from which truth can be measured with understanding.
It means to walk in the light.
What is the limit of the light?
Only the limit WE place on it
We live in a world of darkness. Everything we have ever known before Christ is dark. He is the light. How much do we limit what God can do by the amount of faith we have in Him? If only we could tap into the faith....tap into the flood gate of faith inside. Forget looking around us for understanding of God and His power, and simply take Him on faith. What if our first reaction was to bow our heads and raise our hands? What if our first thought was how He was glorified? What if we ran everything through a filter of pure light? If only we could discipline ourselves to JUDGE EVERYTHING by HIM, and not allow ourselves to let the world dictate to us what He is capable of. How do we get to the place of letting go of our own selfish motivations and limitations we place on the Holy One. How long will we chalk up an experience, a word, a direction, up to coincidence, and realize underneath is Him....the TRUE WORD, which was in the beginning, before everything else.
How do we change out perspective to view everything by Him, HE is the TRUTH, therefore HE is the standard of measurement. Through HIM we gain wisdom, and truth....everything that doesn't line up with HIM is false.
If we would just seek the light....SEEK IT LIKE WE SEEK MONEY, POWER, RESPECT, and countless other worthless endeavors. SEEK THE LIGHT, it is always shining...the question is are we really looking for it? Are we really wanting to find it? Or are we happy placing it in the small compartment in the back of our minds, and trying to forget about it for the sake of the world's standards?
When will we see that HE is the gauge, HE is the perspective, HE is the TRUTH, everything else is false.
Of course, we wouldn't be expected to measure the distance we have traveled in our cars in kilometers, if we had never learned what a kilometer was. If we never had an understanding of the measurement system, there would be no way to understand how to gauge anything by that standard. So how is the problem solved? Learn the standard...truly understand it. Then the ability to gauge by it can occur.
Seek truth...in the the Word. Seek to learn it and understand it. From that a gauge begins to develop from which truth can be measured with understanding.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Rejoice!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice" Philippians 4:4
through the good, the bad, the difficult, the easy, the average, the repitition, the mountain tops, the valley floors, in the day, in the night, while you are driving, while you are working, when you are encouraged, when you are depressed, when you are happy, when you are sad, when you are up, and when you are down, when the sun is shining, when the clouds form, when you are in the storm, when you are beside still waters, when things couldn't be better, and things have never been worse, in the morning, in the evening, in fall, in winter, in spring, in summer, in pain, in suffering, in blessing, in contentment, in joy, in persecution, in quiet times, when surrounded with noise, in the pews of the church, in the grass on a hillside, during floods, during dryness, when the heavens open, when there is a gaping seperation, when we run, when we walk, when we crawl, when others are there, when we are all alone, when we raise our hands, when we bow our heads, during birth, during death........
always does not make exceptions
through the good, the bad, the difficult, the easy, the average, the repitition, the mountain tops, the valley floors, in the day, in the night, while you are driving, while you are working, when you are encouraged, when you are depressed, when you are happy, when you are sad, when you are up, and when you are down, when the sun is shining, when the clouds form, when you are in the storm, when you are beside still waters, when things couldn't be better, and things have never been worse, in the morning, in the evening, in fall, in winter, in spring, in summer, in pain, in suffering, in blessing, in contentment, in joy, in persecution, in quiet times, when surrounded with noise, in the pews of the church, in the grass on a hillside, during floods, during dryness, when the heavens open, when there is a gaping seperation, when we run, when we walk, when we crawl, when others are there, when we are all alone, when we raise our hands, when we bow our heads, during birth, during death........
always does not make exceptions
Monday, January 29, 2007
God is in the Details
The weekend before last, I went on a Winter Retreat with the church to Tyler. It was a great time, and I really felt the Lord was answering many prayers I had prayed over the past few weeks in different situations and circumstances. That being said, after returning home, Leon and I decided to go grab a bite to eat. As we were conversing over the meal, and speaking about many of the things the Lord had shown us during the weekend, the waitress came to refill my water glass. After a pause in the conversation, I lifted it up to take a drink. When I looked back down in order to set my glass down, what did I find? You guessed it, A SMILE! (Can you see it?). I looked up and said, "Leon, look right there", he sat speechless, staring at the perfectly outlined smile. Then he says, "you should take a picture". Well, it just so happened, I had grabbed my jacket, from the truck before we left, (something I very rarely do), and had stuck my camera in the pocket from the trip to Tyler. So, I grabbed it, and took a few shots. We just kind of sat for a little bit, smiling to ourselves, as we saw God in the details that day.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Snow Day!
Well, to my surprise, I woke up this morning and snow was on the ground! To my greater surprise, everyone is really petrified of .00001 inch of snow. Schools are shutting down, people are boarding up their windows (okay not really), and there is absolutely no one on the roads!
I bet that people from Wisconsin laugh at us.
I bet that people from Wisconsin laugh at us.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Faithful
Proverbs 20:6
"Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?"
What is it to be faithful?
As a boy growing up, my father instructed me, "Boy, (he used this affectionately), there are three things you need to have as a man; honesty, integrity, and loyalty."
At the time, I didn't realize the truth and wisdom behind this simple statement, but as I walk through life, these three words form a triangle around the center of my heart, and I constantly weigh decisions by how close to the center of the triangle the choice will fall. I think that these three adjectives can be summed up in one word......faithful.
If I strive for faithfulness, the bi-product of decisions usually falls in the middle of the triangle.
To be faithful is to be honest......
It is to determine the ability to meet a commitment before agreeing to take it on. This requires honesty with yourself, and honesty to the person, or project you are committing to. At the same time, there has to be honesty to the one asking for the commitment. The person or project may seem like a perfect fit, but in the end, the choice to proceed with a commitment, may lead to pain and disappointment if the ability to follow through to the end is not accomplished. So, there is a responsibility to be honest to the one asking for the commitment, in order to prevent the hurt that is a repercussion of not finishing what is started.
To be faithful is to be loyal........
How many times have I been excited about a new opportunity or experience, and jumped in with both feet, only to realize that after the newness has worn off, that in the end the expectations I had placed on the experience were far greater than the experience itself. From that I am left facing the choice to remain loyal to the decision, even if there is not an emotional degree of satisfaction that results from continually standing in the place I agreed to stand. A soldier may sign up for the military with expectations of excitement, and tremendous adventure...if after boot camp, they are given an assignment to guard a road which noone ever travels down, they may soon find themselves in a place of discontent, with expectations not being met. But, their loyalty to their commitment is crucial! Leaving their post might result in tremendous consequences in the larger picture of a war which they play a part. The decision becomes a daily commitment to stay where they were placed, even in the cold, the heat, the boredom, the unmet expectations....so that, the war can be won, and those to which they have committed can depend on them to be there.
To be faithful is to be full of integrity.
What do you have if you don't have integrity? Suspicion and distrust. If a previous record of leaving before finishing proceeds you, then more than likely you are not going to be given many future opportunities, which otherwise you would have been given. When others look at you, what do they see? Is it someone they know they can count on, even when things are difficult, and hard? Is it a security that you will bring to a situation by a trust in your desire to fulfill the mission? Without integrity, there is no reason for anyone to trust you.
Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?
"Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?"
What is it to be faithful?
As a boy growing up, my father instructed me, "Boy, (he used this affectionately), there are three things you need to have as a man; honesty, integrity, and loyalty."
At the time, I didn't realize the truth and wisdom behind this simple statement, but as I walk through life, these three words form a triangle around the center of my heart, and I constantly weigh decisions by how close to the center of the triangle the choice will fall. I think that these three adjectives can be summed up in one word......faithful.
If I strive for faithfulness, the bi-product of decisions usually falls in the middle of the triangle.
To be faithful is to be honest......
It is to determine the ability to meet a commitment before agreeing to take it on. This requires honesty with yourself, and honesty to the person, or project you are committing to. At the same time, there has to be honesty to the one asking for the commitment. The person or project may seem like a perfect fit, but in the end, the choice to proceed with a commitment, may lead to pain and disappointment if the ability to follow through to the end is not accomplished. So, there is a responsibility to be honest to the one asking for the commitment, in order to prevent the hurt that is a repercussion of not finishing what is started.
To be faithful is to be loyal........
How many times have I been excited about a new opportunity or experience, and jumped in with both feet, only to realize that after the newness has worn off, that in the end the expectations I had placed on the experience were far greater than the experience itself. From that I am left facing the choice to remain loyal to the decision, even if there is not an emotional degree of satisfaction that results from continually standing in the place I agreed to stand. A soldier may sign up for the military with expectations of excitement, and tremendous adventure...if after boot camp, they are given an assignment to guard a road which noone ever travels down, they may soon find themselves in a place of discontent, with expectations not being met. But, their loyalty to their commitment is crucial! Leaving their post might result in tremendous consequences in the larger picture of a war which they play a part. The decision becomes a daily commitment to stay where they were placed, even in the cold, the heat, the boredom, the unmet expectations....so that, the war can be won, and those to which they have committed can depend on them to be there.
To be faithful is to be full of integrity.
What do you have if you don't have integrity? Suspicion and distrust. If a previous record of leaving before finishing proceeds you, then more than likely you are not going to be given many future opportunities, which otherwise you would have been given. When others look at you, what do they see? Is it someone they know they can count on, even when things are difficult, and hard? Is it a security that you will bring to a situation by a trust in your desire to fulfill the mission? Without integrity, there is no reason for anyone to trust you.
Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Kirk Franklin
Yes, I am a white guy that listens to Kirk Franklin.....Who is this? My description is a contemporary gospel singer, but I don't know if that is actually a genre of music.
What's interesting to me is that worship music can come in so many forms, and in reality they all convey the same message: to glrofiy the Lord. What other type of music has such a common denominator? None. Christian music ranges everywhere from Contemporary to Christian Rock to Gospel to Bluegrass and even Christian Hip-Hop!
Even with different sounds and rhythms, under it all, the message is the same...exalting the Lord for His work in the lives of those singing, and encouraging the Saints through exaltation. So, yes, I listen to Kirk Franklin, Toby Mac, Newsboys, Flame, Michael W. Smith, Switchfoot, Prestonwood Choir, Jars of Clay, the Celtic Christian Radio station, and the list goes on and on and on.....
Like each of us are made to look different, have different talents and gifts, and are given a different path and cross to carry, in the end it's all about our heart, and love for Him. The same goes with the plethora of music out there. Is there a heart behind the music trying to poor out in praise to God, and exalt Him? Is there a testimony of encouragement about how the Lord has changed a life, or how he has been faithful through the darkest hour? If so, then our hearts can join in and worship, no matter the rhythm, or instruments, or sounds used.
My place serving the Lord looks different than other believers all around me, just as theirs looks different than mine. I don't perform the function as a missionary in Africa does. I may not ever be used as a missionary, or may never stand in front of 1000's to give a sermon like some of my brothers, but in the end my purpose is just as important to the Lord, just as every believers purpose is important. What is the common denominator amoung us all, no matter what our job is in the kingdom? Our heart for the Lord. When our hearts are all focused on glorifying Him, we make sweet harmony no matter what instrument, or type of singing voice we have. There is perfect outer harmony that flows out from the body of Christ, when the inner hearts of the individual genres get together and focus everything on the one thing which deserves all of our singing and praise...Jesus.
What's interesting to me is that worship music can come in so many forms, and in reality they all convey the same message: to glrofiy the Lord. What other type of music has such a common denominator? None. Christian music ranges everywhere from Contemporary to Christian Rock to Gospel to Bluegrass and even Christian Hip-Hop!
Even with different sounds and rhythms, under it all, the message is the same...exalting the Lord for His work in the lives of those singing, and encouraging the Saints through exaltation. So, yes, I listen to Kirk Franklin, Toby Mac, Newsboys, Flame, Michael W. Smith, Switchfoot, Prestonwood Choir, Jars of Clay, the Celtic Christian Radio station, and the list goes on and on and on.....
Like each of us are made to look different, have different talents and gifts, and are given a different path and cross to carry, in the end it's all about our heart, and love for Him. The same goes with the plethora of music out there. Is there a heart behind the music trying to poor out in praise to God, and exalt Him? Is there a testimony of encouragement about how the Lord has changed a life, or how he has been faithful through the darkest hour? If so, then our hearts can join in and worship, no matter the rhythm, or instruments, or sounds used.
My place serving the Lord looks different than other believers all around me, just as theirs looks different than mine. I don't perform the function as a missionary in Africa does. I may not ever be used as a missionary, or may never stand in front of 1000's to give a sermon like some of my brothers, but in the end my purpose is just as important to the Lord, just as every believers purpose is important. What is the common denominator amoung us all, no matter what our job is in the kingdom? Our heart for the Lord. When our hearts are all focused on glorifying Him, we make sweet harmony no matter what instrument, or type of singing voice we have. There is perfect outer harmony that flows out from the body of Christ, when the inner hearts of the individual genres get together and focus everything on the one thing which deserves all of our singing and praise...Jesus.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Everyone is Different...Therefore Everyone is Special
I am what you would call, an "emotional guy". The bottom line is that I wear my emotions on my sleeve for all the world to see. It took me many years to come to terms with this, and realize that it truly is how the Lord created me. When I accepted that I was not the type to hold in everything, my life became much easier, and I had much more peace in my view of myself and the world around me.
One thing I am learning is that each person is unique. God created them in the exact way He wanted, and gave them the specific characteristics that make them who they are. I think that many times, one of the largest barriers we have with others is that we try to figure others out, based on the perspective of life that we have. When we view a response from another person that we can't understand, most of the time we view that action as being in some way incorrect. (Even if we don't outwardly say it). As I walk through life, I am trying more and more to try to acquire the understanding of the perspective of the people around me. How do I do this? Well, as I mentioned when I first started writing, I am what you would call a tad bit emotional, from that I must realize that the majority of those I am around will not have as much emotion coming into play when they deal with a decision. Therefore, the rational, and thought process that they face when coming to decision will be different than mine. While I can probably relate to the having to make a certain decision, there is probably not much of a common ground when it comes to the way the mind works while forming the final conclusion. What does all this mean in simple language?
Honestly, I don't really know, but in the end one thing I am sure of is that the Lord created everyone unique. There has never been anyone He created, or that He will create that will take your place in His eyes. His relationship with you, is His relationship with you, it is special to Him, unique to Him, and the way in which he relates to you is different and unique from the way He relates to anyone else ever made! How Awesome is that. As the old saying goes, "He meets us where we are at", but he also walks with us to the place where he wants us to go.
With all that being said, the thought of how important each person is to God, makes me respect them, and their uniqueness all the more. They were created to serve a special purpose for the Lord that only they can serve, and He loves them so much that He died for them. Shouldn't I have a similar attitude for anyone and everyone on this Earth? Shouldn't I try to respect them for how God created them, even if it doesn't make much sense to me? After all, the Lord loves them perfectly, just how they were created, and He finds a tremendous amount of beauty in the way they think, act, and make decisions.
One thing I am learning is that each person is unique. God created them in the exact way He wanted, and gave them the specific characteristics that make them who they are. I think that many times, one of the largest barriers we have with others is that we try to figure others out, based on the perspective of life that we have. When we view a response from another person that we can't understand, most of the time we view that action as being in some way incorrect. (Even if we don't outwardly say it). As I walk through life, I am trying more and more to try to acquire the understanding of the perspective of the people around me. How do I do this? Well, as I mentioned when I first started writing, I am what you would call a tad bit emotional, from that I must realize that the majority of those I am around will not have as much emotion coming into play when they deal with a decision. Therefore, the rational, and thought process that they face when coming to decision will be different than mine. While I can probably relate to the having to make a certain decision, there is probably not much of a common ground when it comes to the way the mind works while forming the final conclusion. What does all this mean in simple language?
Honestly, I don't really know, but in the end one thing I am sure of is that the Lord created everyone unique. There has never been anyone He created, or that He will create that will take your place in His eyes. His relationship with you, is His relationship with you, it is special to Him, unique to Him, and the way in which he relates to you is different and unique from the way He relates to anyone else ever made! How Awesome is that. As the old saying goes, "He meets us where we are at", but he also walks with us to the place where he wants us to go.
With all that being said, the thought of how important each person is to God, makes me respect them, and their uniqueness all the more. They were created to serve a special purpose for the Lord that only they can serve, and He loves them so much that He died for them. Shouldn't I have a similar attitude for anyone and everyone on this Earth? Shouldn't I try to respect them for how God created them, even if it doesn't make much sense to me? After all, the Lord loves them perfectly, just how they were created, and He finds a tremendous amount of beauty in the way they think, act, and make decisions.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Distractions, Distractions, Distractions
Could it be that we supplement our lives with constant distractions, in order to ignore the pain that pulses through our veins every hour of every day? Could it be that we have been born into a society and culture that has brain washed us into believing that there is no such thing as "peace"? Could it be that we actually believe that in the end the only hope we have of making it is by finding something with which we can drown out the constant barrage of painful thoughts, emotions, and hurts that have been built up over a quarter century of life? Could it be that our hearts, souls and minds are filled to overflowing with hollow promises of materialism, prosperity, and the self-made man/woman mentality?
"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:1-2
Everywhere you turn there is something to distract you from facing your pain. Television, Internet, movies, shopping, radio, and on and on and on. Why on Earth would would we ever want to SIT STILL and WAIT and LISTEN to that "still small voice", when there are so many other so called "interesting and fun things" to get our mind off of our own pitiful existence? We don't feel the need to be saved, when in the end we have the ability to convince ourselves that we are really not that bad off......I mean we have all the advantages in the World! We are the "me" generation. We have seen technology advance beyond our parents wildest imagination. Space has been explored, the Cold War has ended, we have the strongest, richest, and most prosperous nation under the sun, and we are in line to be the next generation of leaders. Why on Earth would we want to take time to stop, be still, and listen to something that may actually point out to us that we are not that which we have convinced ourselves that we are? We might find that in reality all that we have is not from us, by us, or for us,...we might find out that we in the end our not the one's in control, we might find out that everything does not revolve around what we "feel" is right, and that there is no such thing as relativism!
The ironic thing about all of this is that our souls have been crying out to us to find PEACE, and through all of the distractions with which we have searched to find it, we have in the end only found more chaos. In all the running, and searching, we have become convinced that there is only a partial glimpse of peace that can be found on this Earth, and that the best we can do is distract ourselves from facing the reality of our finite existence.
There is a place where peace can be found.
There is hope.
The only thing you need to overcome is yourself.
Start over, learning the truth about the one thing you have always fooled yourself into thinking would not be the answer.
Begin in the beginning...John 1:1
Jesus is the word.
The word made flesh.
He is just as much alive today as he was prior to his crucifixion.
Do you know who he is?
Or do you just convince yourself you do?
He is the way, the truth, and the life.
He is the Prince of Peace.
He can't be found in the television, movies, shopping, Internet, or any other place that you may turn to for peace from your hurt.
He is found in His Word.
The simple book that has been around much longer than you, and which will abide forever. The little book that for so many years you have ignored, and said you would read someday.
Where is the peace? Where is true freedom? Where is God's will for your life? The same place it has always been...in his word.
The Simple, but Perfect Word of God.
"The Heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?"
Jeremiah 17:9
Are you going to trust your own heart? It will deceive you. Truth is from God, and is eternal and perfect. The only way to know it, is to seek it. It does not change. It changes what it touches.
"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:1-2
Everywhere you turn there is something to distract you from facing your pain. Television, Internet, movies, shopping, radio, and on and on and on. Why on Earth would would we ever want to SIT STILL and WAIT and LISTEN to that "still small voice", when there are so many other so called "interesting and fun things" to get our mind off of our own pitiful existence? We don't feel the need to be saved, when in the end we have the ability to convince ourselves that we are really not that bad off......I mean we have all the advantages in the World! We are the "me" generation. We have seen technology advance beyond our parents wildest imagination. Space has been explored, the Cold War has ended, we have the strongest, richest, and most prosperous nation under the sun, and we are in line to be the next generation of leaders. Why on Earth would we want to take time to stop, be still, and listen to something that may actually point out to us that we are not that which we have convinced ourselves that we are? We might find that in reality all that we have is not from us, by us, or for us,...we might find out that we in the end our not the one's in control, we might find out that everything does not revolve around what we "feel" is right, and that there is no such thing as relativism!
The ironic thing about all of this is that our souls have been crying out to us to find PEACE, and through all of the distractions with which we have searched to find it, we have in the end only found more chaos. In all the running, and searching, we have become convinced that there is only a partial glimpse of peace that can be found on this Earth, and that the best we can do is distract ourselves from facing the reality of our finite existence.
There is a place where peace can be found.
There is hope.
The only thing you need to overcome is yourself.
Start over, learning the truth about the one thing you have always fooled yourself into thinking would not be the answer.
Begin in the beginning...John 1:1
Jesus is the word.
The word made flesh.
He is just as much alive today as he was prior to his crucifixion.
Do you know who he is?
Or do you just convince yourself you do?
He is the way, the truth, and the life.
He is the Prince of Peace.
He can't be found in the television, movies, shopping, Internet, or any other place that you may turn to for peace from your hurt.
He is found in His Word.
The simple book that has been around much longer than you, and which will abide forever. The little book that for so many years you have ignored, and said you would read someday.
Where is the peace? Where is true freedom? Where is God's will for your life? The same place it has always been...in his word.
The Simple, but Perfect Word of God.
"The Heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?"
Jeremiah 17:9
Are you going to trust your own heart? It will deceive you. Truth is from God, and is eternal and perfect. The only way to know it, is to seek it. It does not change. It changes what it touches.
Monday, December 11, 2006
One Awesome Weekend
After two months of planning, coordinating, and praying, Dallas One has arrived and left. Saturday was an incredible day of service, fellowship, and worship with over 500 young singles from the DFW metroplex participating.(Over 60 churches were represented).
My day began at 8:00 am, when I stopped in to get Krispy Kremes for my team mates. I then proceeded down to meet my team for a few hours of work, before I had to head off to manage the other teams I was responsible for. At about 12:00, the other teams started on their projects, and from that moment on, I was in trouble shooting mode. The one thing I strongly remember about the many details that needed to be addressed, was the amazing way that the Lord seemed to work them out right in front of my eyes. I probably received 25 phone calls within about a 20 minute span, and they all seemed to be addressed within an hour or two.
While I could go into detail after detail, I feel the best thing to write about is the amazing take aways from the day.
1. It was a very powerful day of worship through service, there were many who were blessed through the tremendous efforts of young singles from all over DFW.
2. The Body of Christ was reaching out and showing love to hundreds of people in hundreds of ways.
3. The stereotypical "slacker generation" label was proven 100% inappropriate for the labeling of this group of generation x'ers.
4. It was one of those days in your life you know you will never forget.
Thank you for all the prayers and support. Life has suddenly slowed down quite drastically, and I should be able to post with more frequency now.
My day began at 8:00 am, when I stopped in to get Krispy Kremes for my team mates. I then proceeded down to meet my team for a few hours of work, before I had to head off to manage the other teams I was responsible for. At about 12:00, the other teams started on their projects, and from that moment on, I was in trouble shooting mode. The one thing I strongly remember about the many details that needed to be addressed, was the amazing way that the Lord seemed to work them out right in front of my eyes. I probably received 25 phone calls within about a 20 minute span, and they all seemed to be addressed within an hour or two.
While I could go into detail after detail, I feel the best thing to write about is the amazing take aways from the day.
1. It was a very powerful day of worship through service, there were many who were blessed through the tremendous efforts of young singles from all over DFW.
2. The Body of Christ was reaching out and showing love to hundreds of people in hundreds of ways.
3. The stereotypical "slacker generation" label was proven 100% inappropriate for the labeling of this group of generation x'ers.
4. It was one of those days in your life you know you will never forget.
Thank you for all the prayers and support. Life has suddenly slowed down quite drastically, and I should be able to post with more frequency now.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Marriage Anyone?
Think about this. Women are naturally emotional creatures, I don't think that many will argue with that, and men are naturally logical. Lets think on that for a bit:
In the marriage covenant, the Lord places a woman (emotionally driven), with a man (logic driven). Could it be that the woman is representing the unconditional love (although far from perfect), that the Lord shows for us as we mess up over, and over again, and the man to represent his righteous judgment (an even farther from perfection model, but hey this is a fallen world and perfection is going to come on the other side of eternity)?
Now let me break this down:
A woman has a tendency, being the more emotional partner, to be able to hold on to a relationship through many mistakes and hurts inflicted by the male counterpart. Her emotion drives her ability (while at times to get incredibly upset) to also be able, and desire to, reconcile after the painful emotions have subsided. Reversing many of the instances of conflict would probably result in a man leaving and not returning. So, the woman in the end is given a more natural ability to "love", through hurt, pain, suffering, due to the gifts of her emotions. This is a (while at many times muddy mirrored) view to the world of the unconditional and perfect love that Christ gives us.
The man, on the other hand, is given to more of a logical (black and white) vantage point, and from that could be seen as representing the righteous judgment (and like I said, this may in the end, be an even muddier mirrored image) of the Lord to us. A man, more often than not does not let the emotion of the hurt interfere with the justice of the outcome of the incident, ie they can agree to disagree, and also want to punish the opposite side of the equation because in the fallen state of mind they view it as a "just" response. On the positive side, this logical side gives the world a view of how the Lord deals with our actions, with emotion being set aside, there are certain consequences that He allows us to face due to our attitude of sin.
Now lets go even deeper,
In Ephesians 5, God calls men to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This is in all actuallity the complete opposite of the natural way they are created. It lines up much more towards the disposition of woman.
Woman, on the other hand, is called to submit to her husband, as to the Lord, once again, completely opposite of her natural ability, due to the uncontrollable emotions, and desire to love that drives her. This command is much more representative of something that a man naturally does. How? A man, by seeing logic, understands that when someone is put in leadership above them, it is logical to follow because of the position they were given, thus respect is a natural by-product of the position given.
So lets tie it all together. Women naturally are given the ability to reflect the unconditional love of Christ, and men given the ability to reflect the judgement of Christ. We are then given to each other in marriage, and commanded to work on doing the exact opposite of what we naturally are able to do. Now does anyone else see the sanctification at work in this process? No wonder marriage is hard right? No wonder it is also fulfilling! Within the confines of marriage, we are able to exploit our natural tendency (which is the easiest thing in the world for us to do), and at the same time, are constantly being taught how to grow in the opposite of that, the most unnatural thing in the world!(which is one of the hardest things to do!).
Marriage is certainly a "mystery" as Paul writes, but what an amazing thing?
In the marriage covenant, the Lord places a woman (emotionally driven), with a man (logic driven). Could it be that the woman is representing the unconditional love (although far from perfect), that the Lord shows for us as we mess up over, and over again, and the man to represent his righteous judgment (an even farther from perfection model, but hey this is a fallen world and perfection is going to come on the other side of eternity)?
Now let me break this down:
A woman has a tendency, being the more emotional partner, to be able to hold on to a relationship through many mistakes and hurts inflicted by the male counterpart. Her emotion drives her ability (while at times to get incredibly upset) to also be able, and desire to, reconcile after the painful emotions have subsided. Reversing many of the instances of conflict would probably result in a man leaving and not returning. So, the woman in the end is given a more natural ability to "love", through hurt, pain, suffering, due to the gifts of her emotions. This is a (while at many times muddy mirrored) view to the world of the unconditional and perfect love that Christ gives us.
The man, on the other hand, is given to more of a logical (black and white) vantage point, and from that could be seen as representing the righteous judgment (and like I said, this may in the end, be an even muddier mirrored image) of the Lord to us. A man, more often than not does not let the emotion of the hurt interfere with the justice of the outcome of the incident, ie they can agree to disagree, and also want to punish the opposite side of the equation because in the fallen state of mind they view it as a "just" response. On the positive side, this logical side gives the world a view of how the Lord deals with our actions, with emotion being set aside, there are certain consequences that He allows us to face due to our attitude of sin.
Now lets go even deeper,
In Ephesians 5, God calls men to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This is in all actuallity the complete opposite of the natural way they are created. It lines up much more towards the disposition of woman.
Woman, on the other hand, is called to submit to her husband, as to the Lord, once again, completely opposite of her natural ability, due to the uncontrollable emotions, and desire to love that drives her. This command is much more representative of something that a man naturally does. How? A man, by seeing logic, understands that when someone is put in leadership above them, it is logical to follow because of the position they were given, thus respect is a natural by-product of the position given.
So lets tie it all together. Women naturally are given the ability to reflect the unconditional love of Christ, and men given the ability to reflect the judgement of Christ. We are then given to each other in marriage, and commanded to work on doing the exact opposite of what we naturally are able to do. Now does anyone else see the sanctification at work in this process? No wonder marriage is hard right? No wonder it is also fulfilling! Within the confines of marriage, we are able to exploit our natural tendency (which is the easiest thing in the world for us to do), and at the same time, are constantly being taught how to grow in the opposite of that, the most unnatural thing in the world!(which is one of the hardest things to do!).
Marriage is certainly a "mystery" as Paul writes, but what an amazing thing?
Monday, November 20, 2006
I'm definetly turning into an old man
Okay, for most of my life, various people have referred to me as "old man", this occurred for different reasons at different times: I was always much taller than the kids my age in elementary school, I always went to bed early and studied all the time during high school and college, and lately, well lately, people just call me "weird" most of the time.
This morning, for the first time, in my almost 26 years on this Earth can I say that I actually started feeling the physical effects of growing older.....
Yesterday at church was the young singles second annual Turkey Bowl, and for those of you unfamiliar, this is a large flag football competition between the different young singles classes at P-Wood. While yesterday I had a great time running around, jumping, trying grab the football out of the hands of the offense, the effects of all that movement reared their ugly head as I awoke out of a peaceful sleep and began to get ready for work.
When the alarm clock sounded, I opened my eyes and realized that my legs were certainly not working as they normally do, as I rolled over to hit the alarm clock my world was shaken by the intensity of the stiffness in my lower body. "AAAHHHH! my legs are soar!", I yelled out to the birds that annoyingly perch outside my bedroom window! I got out of bed, and hobbled around the rest of the morning getting ready, (getting my clothes on for work was quite the adventure). As I stepped out of the house, it occurred to me, the old body, although never really close to athletic excellence in the past, certainly ain't what it used to be! I kind of smiled to myself, and the thought crossed my mind, "Whelp, I guess it's time that the phrase "old man", started being applied to your physical condition, as well as your mental condition! It's all down hill from here!" haha.
Side note, I have actually experienced pain shooting through muscles that I didn't even know existed today.......do you have a muscle close to your spleen? If not, then something is certainly majorly wrong! hahaha
This morning, for the first time, in my almost 26 years on this Earth can I say that I actually started feeling the physical effects of growing older.....
Yesterday at church was the young singles second annual Turkey Bowl, and for those of you unfamiliar, this is a large flag football competition between the different young singles classes at P-Wood. While yesterday I had a great time running around, jumping, trying grab the football out of the hands of the offense, the effects of all that movement reared their ugly head as I awoke out of a peaceful sleep and began to get ready for work.
When the alarm clock sounded, I opened my eyes and realized that my legs were certainly not working as they normally do, as I rolled over to hit the alarm clock my world was shaken by the intensity of the stiffness in my lower body. "AAAHHHH! my legs are soar!", I yelled out to the birds that annoyingly perch outside my bedroom window! I got out of bed, and hobbled around the rest of the morning getting ready, (getting my clothes on for work was quite the adventure). As I stepped out of the house, it occurred to me, the old body, although never really close to athletic excellence in the past, certainly ain't what it used to be! I kind of smiled to myself, and the thought crossed my mind, "Whelp, I guess it's time that the phrase "old man", started being applied to your physical condition, as well as your mental condition! It's all down hill from here!" haha.
Side note, I have actually experienced pain shooting through muscles that I didn't even know existed today.......do you have a muscle close to your spleen? If not, then something is certainly majorly wrong! hahaha
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Monday, October 30, 2006
AAAHHHH!!!!!
Well, this is more of an update blog, but I'll try to put some interesting things in for all those non-family members that read regularly. I have once again found myself in a whirlwind of activities. I have a tendency to over commit sometimes, because I want to help wherever help is needed. So, that being said, based on the past couple of weeks I can now officially say, "I am busy". Work is picking up as we wind down the year, and are trying to get projects wrapped up, and that is only the beginning.
I am very excited about a new service project taking place up here in big D called Dallas One. Now, without going into too much detail about the history and greatness of it all, I will say, please check out the website for all the details. But, in short, it is an AWESOME, AWESOME, ministry that incorporates singles from all over DFW, for a day of service, worship, and fellowship in the second week of December. For all of you Dallas "young singles" out there, who haven't registered, please take a minute to register online. Our goal is to have participation from at least 800 singles in DFW. We are a little behind, but we still have a month or so to get registrants!
www.dallasone.org
I am still participating in my b-study class, and the homeless downtown weekly, so please keep me in your prayers for strength, and encouragement as I go go go go go! Bottom line is that I wouldn't want it any other way, I love it. I have to say that I have been able to see God move in my life in AMAZING Ways over the last few months, and I am so so excited to see where He leads from here.
One note, I heard a message the other day on noise....how, if we sit and be still, that in reality there is always noise going on around us. How often do we really get to a "quite place?" Just us and the Lord, in order to hear him speak? I have been trying to turn off all noise in the times when I am alone. Not even any radio or Cd's in the car (Sorry Toby Mac!). It has been really good, although it is surprising how much noise is still not filtered out. Even at my apartment, sitting in total silence, I still hear the jets flying overhead, the neighbors walking upstairs, radios from cars blaring, and people walking around outside. There really isn't much silence in the city, so making a time and place to find it, becomes all the more important. Jesus sometimes went up on a mountain, just to get away from the crowd. How much time do we spend, seeking silence, away from noise? In this day and age, distractions are countless, and escaping silence has never been easier, but God speaks in the silence many times, and just think, we may have too much noise running around all around us, to be able to hear from Him.
I am very excited about a new service project taking place up here in big D called Dallas One. Now, without going into too much detail about the history and greatness of it all, I will say, please check out the website for all the details. But, in short, it is an AWESOME, AWESOME, ministry that incorporates singles from all over DFW, for a day of service, worship, and fellowship in the second week of December. For all of you Dallas "young singles" out there, who haven't registered, please take a minute to register online. Our goal is to have participation from at least 800 singles in DFW. We are a little behind, but we still have a month or so to get registrants!
www.dallasone.org
I am still participating in my b-study class, and the homeless downtown weekly, so please keep me in your prayers for strength, and encouragement as I go go go go go! Bottom line is that I wouldn't want it any other way, I love it. I have to say that I have been able to see God move in my life in AMAZING Ways over the last few months, and I am so so excited to see where He leads from here.
One note, I heard a message the other day on noise....how, if we sit and be still, that in reality there is always noise going on around us. How often do we really get to a "quite place?" Just us and the Lord, in order to hear him speak? I have been trying to turn off all noise in the times when I am alone. Not even any radio or Cd's in the car (Sorry Toby Mac!). It has been really good, although it is surprising how much noise is still not filtered out. Even at my apartment, sitting in total silence, I still hear the jets flying overhead, the neighbors walking upstairs, radios from cars blaring, and people walking around outside. There really isn't much silence in the city, so making a time and place to find it, becomes all the more important. Jesus sometimes went up on a mountain, just to get away from the crowd. How much time do we spend, seeking silence, away from noise? In this day and age, distractions are countless, and escaping silence has never been easier, but God speaks in the silence many times, and just think, we may have too much noise running around all around us, to be able to hear from Him.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
I GOT IT!!!!!!
I am not sure if I wrote about this back in July, but this is a picture of me at the Celebrate Freedom concert with Todd Agnew, one of the performers. (Much love to Amanda, for giving up her picture autograph, so that I could have both!). Anyway, many of you may have seen my Ireland hat that has the autographs on it, and have inquired about who those autographs were. Here is one right here. Now, Todd Agnew autographed, and also wrote the reference to Ephesians 6:15, which is Paul talking about the whole armor of God, specifically the sandals of peace:
"and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace."
Now, ever since he wrote this scripture I have wondered and thought, and thought about the meaning behind it. Is that his favorite verse, is that a reference he uses in every autograph? I just couldn't figure it out, it was such an interesting verse.
Well today, I am sitting and listening to the radio at work, and the newest Todd Agnew song starts to play, and it is really, really good. So my mind begins to drift back to that day when he signed my hat, and then pieces started clicking together in my mind! It all clicked! I finally understand why he chose that verse! If you look close at the picture above, you might figure it out too....... Can you see it?
Well, for some reason I remembered the shirt I was wearing that day! Can you read it?
It says "I Have Issues" Ha Ha!!! Do you see now? He was telling me to have peace in my issues!!! hahahahahaha! I love it, it is so awesome!
Friday, October 20, 2006
Psalm 31
Just a quick note, the Dentist went great yesterday! No cavities (although I do have to get some old cavities re-filled :(. (Yes, I am a grown man that uses emoticons!) By the way, dental insurance rocks! I wish there was such a thing as haircut insurance.
Anyway, I was reading yesterday and came across this Psalm, but the part that really hit me was this:
Blessed be the Lord, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me when I was in a besieged city. I had said in my alarm, "I am cut off from your sight." But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried for help.
Love the Lord, all you his saints! The Lord preserves the faithful but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!
Psalm 31: 21-24
After reading this I thought, "How many times do I get into a tough place and then scream at the top of my lungs, "Where are you Lord?!, I am certainly cut off from you right now! Please come save me!!!" Like how David says "I had said in my alarm". That is me right there, I get a little raddled along the path and I'm like Lord, Lord, it is difficult now, I am under attack! But, the Lord, hears my cries for help. He is there, and when the attack is over, I feel him there and know that He was there all along. I was not cut off, only being taught things like faith, and trust. I realize how weak and incapable I am, and find myself ashamed for lack of faith in my struggle.
Like David, the realization comes THE LORD PRESERVES THE FAITHFUL!, Why can't I ever remember that! But, what the struggle allows me to do is encourage those around me after it is over, and say: "Be Strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait on the Lord!" It is an awesome cycle of glorifying the Lord. The Lord is faithful, and when he lets us go into a besieged city, although we feel he has left, he is there, and he hears us. What we fail to realize is that He is growing and stretching and strengthening us, so that when the battle is over, and we look back we have seen Him faithful.
Then, we are placed around others who are facing their own besieged cities, and because we have truly learned this lesson, we are able to say to them with confidence, Be Strong!! Take Courage! The Lord preserves the faithful! You may not feel or see Him right now, but know this, He is there. Just wait. Just wait.
Anyway, I was reading yesterday and came across this Psalm, but the part that really hit me was this:
Blessed be the Lord, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me when I was in a besieged city. I had said in my alarm, "I am cut off from your sight." But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried for help.
Love the Lord, all you his saints! The Lord preserves the faithful but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!
Psalm 31: 21-24
After reading this I thought, "How many times do I get into a tough place and then scream at the top of my lungs, "Where are you Lord?!, I am certainly cut off from you right now! Please come save me!!!" Like how David says "I had said in my alarm". That is me right there, I get a little raddled along the path and I'm like Lord, Lord, it is difficult now, I am under attack! But, the Lord, hears my cries for help. He is there, and when the attack is over, I feel him there and know that He was there all along. I was not cut off, only being taught things like faith, and trust. I realize how weak and incapable I am, and find myself ashamed for lack of faith in my struggle.
Like David, the realization comes THE LORD PRESERVES THE FAITHFUL!, Why can't I ever remember that! But, what the struggle allows me to do is encourage those around me after it is over, and say: "Be Strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait on the Lord!" It is an awesome cycle of glorifying the Lord. The Lord is faithful, and when he lets us go into a besieged city, although we feel he has left, he is there, and he hears us. What we fail to realize is that He is growing and stretching and strengthening us, so that when the battle is over, and we look back we have seen Him faithful.
Then, we are placed around others who are facing their own besieged cities, and because we have truly learned this lesson, we are able to say to them with confidence, Be Strong!! Take Courage! The Lord preserves the faithful! You may not feel or see Him right now, but know this, He is there. Just wait. Just wait.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Dentist
Today, I go to the dentist for the first time in a while! I am somewhat nervous about what is going to be found. If any of you are regulars readers, you will recall a post a few months back where I expressed my addiction to the candy here at work, well to say the least, this has not diminished over the last few months. I am up to like 4 to 5 pieces (small pieces) a day now. I know that I have got at least one cavity, and am thinking maybe two, that are going to need to be filled, and I also still have my wisdom teeth, which every dentists wants to be pulled out like the moment you are 21.
Yes, it should be an interesting experience today as I get to see how much money will be shelled out on my grill over the next few months. Speaking of, on a the cover of one of the Dallas weekly newspapers, I saw a headline, "White Girl with a Grill", and a picture of this white girl who was probably in her twenties that had a full grill! Maybe I should get a grill....what do you think? Gold, Silver, Platinum, or Diamond?!
Update on the Toby Mac Cd situation.....The cd is still in the player, and we are going on over a month now, my buddy Brian, (see link in my favorites) suggested that I try getting some of the condensed air that is used to clean the computer and spray it in the cd player in order to "raddle it loose". Well Brian, let me say it did not work, and now I have a can of condensed air in my truck that I don't have the slightest idea what to do with. Also, every once in a while, I get the urge to spray the inside of the cd player again, in the hopes that by some miracle the cd will just pop out, and every time it doesn't work! Anyway, I have begun to look at other cd players, while I do appreciate Toby Mac, he is getting pretty old.
Yes, it should be an interesting experience today as I get to see how much money will be shelled out on my grill over the next few months. Speaking of, on a the cover of one of the Dallas weekly newspapers, I saw a headline, "White Girl with a Grill", and a picture of this white girl who was probably in her twenties that had a full grill! Maybe I should get a grill....what do you think? Gold, Silver, Platinum, or Diamond?!
Update on the Toby Mac Cd situation.....The cd is still in the player, and we are going on over a month now, my buddy Brian, (see link in my favorites) suggested that I try getting some of the condensed air that is used to clean the computer and spray it in the cd player in order to "raddle it loose". Well Brian, let me say it did not work, and now I have a can of condensed air in my truck that I don't have the slightest idea what to do with. Also, every once in a while, I get the urge to spray the inside of the cd player again, in the hopes that by some miracle the cd will just pop out, and every time it doesn't work! Anyway, I have begun to look at other cd players, while I do appreciate Toby Mac, he is getting pretty old.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
The World Can Sure Beat You Up!
Well, I just wanted to take a few minutes and encourage everyone! This has been a tough week so far, and as I thought about it this morning. I realized that sometimes the World can just beat you up. After thinking about it, I decided I needed to write something for those of you out there who may be facing some tough things as well.
"I have said these things to you that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:4
"then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials.." 2 Peter 2:9
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are NOT WORTH comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." Romans 8:18
Hang in there! This too shall pass. Joy comes with the morning!
Keep stepping, keep loving, keep praising, keep worshipping, keep giving, keep obeying, keep focusing, keep going.......
Remember you serve a special purpose for the Lord that no one else can serve, you have a mission given specifically for you, and that is unlike anyone else.
We are part of a body, and we need each hand, foot, eye, and ear to do its part. When one of us hurts, we all hurt, when one of us is blessed, we are all blessed.
"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to bless you and keep you and not to harm you." Jeremiah 29:11
"I have said these things to you that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:4
"then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials.." 2 Peter 2:9
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are NOT WORTH comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." Romans 8:18
Hang in there! This too shall pass. Joy comes with the morning!
Keep stepping, keep loving, keep praising, keep worshipping, keep giving, keep obeying, keep focusing, keep going.......
Remember you serve a special purpose for the Lord that no one else can serve, you have a mission given specifically for you, and that is unlike anyone else.
We are part of a body, and we need each hand, foot, eye, and ear to do its part. When one of us hurts, we all hurt, when one of us is blessed, we are all blessed.
"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to bless you and keep you and not to harm you." Jeremiah 29:11
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Renovating Diverse City!
About three weeks ago, I bought a new Cd, "Renovating Diverse City" from Toby Mac, of former DC Talk fame. This is actually the second time I purchased this cd, as my first copy is now in the ownership of another, but that my friends is a whole different, and long story.
Anyway, I was in Wal-Mart here while back, looking through the cd's (I think I was talking to Nene on the phone at the same time), when I found this cd on sale for under $8.00. Well, me, not being one that wants to pass up a chance to fuel the world's largest retailer by a purchase, decide to pick up a second copy. Well, now that I think about it, this is actually my third purchase of this cd, (I bought one for my brother way, way back like two years ago). Anyway, needless to say, I support Toby Mac!
Back to the story. So, I am super pumped about my new music, as I usually am, and open it as soon as I get in my truck after leaving Wal-Mart. As I begin listening through the tracks, I am reminded how much I really do love this cd, I mean Christian Hip-Hop from a white guy, its AWESOME! ( I often wonder if we will get to hear Christian Hip Hop in heaven) I think we might, and its going to be awesome!
But I digress, a third time. After driving around most of the day listening to TB, I get to a point where I want to listen to something else. So, I hit the eject button, and there is a problem, the cd player decides it does not want to give me the cd back. And.....after three weeks, it still does not want to give me the cd back. Now, one thing about it, the cd does still play, it just won't eject. So, in conclusion, I just wanted to say that I have lsitened to this cd about 700 times (okay this is an exaggeration, for those of you who might think I am being serious) over the past three weeks.
On a sad note about this, I can honestly say that I am no closer to gaining any rhythm or great rhyming skills after all of this listening, although I do have a pretty good head bob going on, now that I have memorized the beat patterns hahaha.
Anyway, I was in Wal-Mart here while back, looking through the cd's (I think I was talking to Nene on the phone at the same time), when I found this cd on sale for under $8.00. Well, me, not being one that wants to pass up a chance to fuel the world's largest retailer by a purchase, decide to pick up a second copy. Well, now that I think about it, this is actually my third purchase of this cd, (I bought one for my brother way, way back like two years ago). Anyway, needless to say, I support Toby Mac!
Back to the story. So, I am super pumped about my new music, as I usually am, and open it as soon as I get in my truck after leaving Wal-Mart. As I begin listening through the tracks, I am reminded how much I really do love this cd, I mean Christian Hip-Hop from a white guy, its AWESOME! ( I often wonder if we will get to hear Christian Hip Hop in heaven) I think we might, and its going to be awesome!
But I digress, a third time. After driving around most of the day listening to TB, I get to a point where I want to listen to something else. So, I hit the eject button, and there is a problem, the cd player decides it does not want to give me the cd back. And.....after three weeks, it still does not want to give me the cd back. Now, one thing about it, the cd does still play, it just won't eject. So, in conclusion, I just wanted to say that I have lsitened to this cd about 700 times (okay this is an exaggeration, for those of you who might think I am being serious) over the past three weeks.
On a sad note about this, I can honestly say that I am no closer to gaining any rhythm or great rhyming skills after all of this listening, although I do have a pretty good head bob going on, now that I have memorized the beat patterns hahaha.
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