On Campus with Christ

On Campus with Christ http://www.uw4god.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10712&blog_id=261945 This blog is intended to convey the thoughts and musings of someone who is passionate about seeing university students living in the Freedom that Christ offers! As the Lord speaks to me through scripture, literature, or simply prayer walks on campus, this blog will be an outlet to communicate what Christ is doing on the university campuses across Wisconsin. EN-US Copyright © 2012 His House Christian Fellowship http://www.triplePixel.com Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/thumbnails/261945-rss-thumbnail.jpgOn Campus with Christhttp://www.uw4god.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10712&blog_id=261945 Reaching students in Wisconsin for Jesus! Jeremy This blog is intended to convey the thoughts and musings of someone who is passionate about seeing university students living in the Freedom that Christ offers! As the Lord speaks to me through scripture, literature, or simply prayer walks on campus, this blog will be an outlet to communicate what Christ is doing on the university campuses across Wisconsin. Jeremywccmjeremy@gmail.com no Who Is God? http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=296818http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=296818 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" width="450" height="133" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/topbdr.jpg" style="vertical-align: top; margin-bottom: 3px;" /> Too often we try to use God to change our circumstances, while He is using our circumstances to change us. -David Osborn Isn’t that the truth?  How many times have we prayed that God would change our circumstances to make us more comfortable, prosperous, successful and less irritated, less distracted…etc.  Yet God is using those moments in life to shape us into who He wants us to be.  When you begin to understand that we serve a God who is infinitely greater than what we can think or imagine, you don’t ask Him for petty favors. Our Psalm for today (146) spells out for us just WHO God is.  “He is the Maker of Heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them – He remains faithful forever.”  Read Psalm 146:6-10 and come to your own conclusion on WHO God is.  <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/prayer3.jpg" style="float: left; margin-right: 3px;" />I am convinced that once we have a correct perspective of WHO God is, then we won’t be asking Him to do us a favor and make us more ___ or to take away ____.  When we fully comprehend that God has a plan and purpose for our life, we can trust Him at His word, and not beg him to change the things around us.  We can then utter these words to God (as David did in Psalm 31:3-5): “For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me; you take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge.  Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God.” Too often we try to use God to change our circumstances, while He is using our circumstances to change us. -David Osborn Isn’t that the truth? How many times have we prayed that God would change our circumstances to make us more comfortable, prosperous, successful and less irritated, less distracted…etc. Yet God is using those moments in life to shape us into who He wants us to be. When you begin to understand that we serve a God who is infinitely greater than what we can think or imagine, you don’t ask Him for petty favors. Our Psalm for today (146) spells out for us just WHO God is. “He is the Maker of Heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them – He remains faithful forever.” Read Psalm 146:6-10 and come to your own conclusion on WHO God is. I am convinced that once we have a correct perspective of WHO God is, then we won’t be asking Him to do us a favor and make us more ___ or to take away ____. When we fully comprehend that God has a plan and purpose for our life, we can trust Him at His word, and not beg him to change the things around us. We can then utter these words to God (as David did in Psalm 31:3-5): “For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me; you take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God.” perspective circumstances humble trust God Easter Illustrated Perfectly! http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=294618http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=294618 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/EasterBap.jpg" style="float: left; margin-right: 4px; margin-bottom: 3px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid;" />Four baptisms!  That’s how we started out our Easter morning service on Sunday!  Four neighborhood kids that my wife Lori has been bringing to church, mentoring, and investing time and love into, came forward on Sunday ready to commit their lives to Christ!  Their parents and grandparents came also, giving us an opportunity to share the power of the Gospel through the testimony of their own children. What a powerful statement and a blessing we were able to experience! At One-Eighty Church, one of our core values is that each one of us is called to be Missional to our community around us.  We are not limited to the physical structure of building, but rather the area that we have been given influence.  Today, are you living the Gospel message to those around you?  Do your co-workers know you love Jesus?  Today, are you sharing the Gospel message with those around you?  Your family members who do not know Jesus are on a path to experience eternity away from God if they do not accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  Today, are you breathing the Gospel message in your own life?  Do you have the ‘peace that passes all understanding’ because you are confident of whom you are in God?  You see, it starts with your heart, not your head, and exudes out from you in obvious movements as you approach and live your life.  The Apostle Paul says this to the church in Thessalonica: “because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.”  How you and I live among our friends, co-workers, neighbors and family reveal to them the power [or lack thereof] of the Gospel with which we verbally claim to be part of our life in Jesus Christ. How are you living today?  What does your testimony look like to those around you?  Be encouraged this week to live as Peter challenges us: “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:12) Four baptisms! That’s how we started out our Easter morning service on Sunday! Four neighborhood kids that my wife Lori has been bringing to church, mentoring, and investing time and love into, came forward on Sunday ready to commit their lives to Christ! Their parents and grandparents came also, giving us an opportunity to share the power of the Gospel through the testimony of their own children. What a powerful statement and a blessing we were able to experience! At One-Eighty Church, one of our core values is that each one of us is called to be Missional to our community around us. We are not limited to the physical structure of building, but rather the area that we have been given influence. Today, are you living the Gospel message to those around you? Do your co-workers know you love Jesus? Today, are you sharing the Gospel message with those around you? Your family members who do not know Jesus are on a path to experience eternity away from God if they do not accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Today, are you breathing the Gospel message in your own life? Do you have the ‘peace that passes all understanding’ because you are confident of whom you are in God? You see, it starts with your heart, not your head, and exudes out from you in obvious movements as you approach and live your life. The Apostle Paul says this to the church in Thessalonica: “because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.” How you and I live among our friends, co-workers, neighbors and family reveal to them the power [or lack thereof] of the Gospel with which we verbally claim to be part of our life in Jesus Christ. How are you living today? What does your testimony look like to those around you? Be encouraged this week to live as Peter challenges us: “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:12) Easter Sunday Baptism Surrender Gospel Living The Pounding Storm http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=292326http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=292326 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" width="578" height="253" style="vertical-align: top; margin-bottom: 2px;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Joplin2.jpg" /> Ten months after the storm, the destruction continues.  We are wrapping up our week of service down in Joplin, where the F5 tornado ripped through the town, destroying 7000 homes, 1000 business and schools and devasted lots of lives.  I came down three weeks after the storm and witnessed firsthand the blow that this powerful tornado laid on this city.  Yet, I see a deeper devastation nearly ten months after the storm than when I was here just a few weeks after the storm.  Sure the town is ‘cleaned-up’.  New business are rebuilding.  New houses are popping up in what looks like an empty field.  There are lots of new vehicles on the roads (over 15,000 vehicles were destroyed by the tornado!).  But the devastation continues to eat away at this town. <img alt="" width="177" height="170" style="float: right; margin-left: 3px;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/Joplin1.jpg" />As I sit in Chick-fil-a, I see the eyes of a mom who is weary, exhausted and ready to give up.  As I talk with a young woman who gets sick every time a thunderstorm approaches, because the reoccurring fear continues to strike her down.  I see the devastation as we try to help a woman who is living in a ravaged trailer, with no running water or electricity.  I see it in the eyes of the three year old little girl, Addison, who lost her family’s house, and now daddy is not coming home.  I hear it in the stories that are shared about the rising divorce rate, the accounts of abuse that are on the rise, and depression from those who cannot escape the mental images of flying debris, dead bodies, bloody hospitals, and war-like scenes. My heart breaks for these people who are trying to get ‘back to normal’.  The painful reality is: there is no normal.  Life after such a traumatic experience will be very different than what it was before the storm.  Many are exalting Restoration in this community, and rightly so!  But as hard as they may try, those who suffer post-traumatic stress syndrome cannot reset their minds to its original state. Last Friday, our ministry brought 40 students and staff to Joplin to do what we can to make a difference.  We've been able to help about fourteen families in the community...a drop in the bucket compared to all those who have needs.  But through the hurt and despair, we have seen a shimmer of hope; a warm smile of appreciation; even a friendly hug from a grandmother who was so blessed to have someone care for her fractured home.  Can we fix the town of Joplin....no.  But what a blessing it has been to us, to be a blessing to them.   My heart breaks for my hometown of Joplin.  But somehow that empathy has drawn me closer to the brokenness of humanity.  It has been a reminder that this world is not our home.  As Hebrews 11 reminds us, there is a better country awaiting us...a heavenly one.  But for now, we have to wait out this pounding storm. <img alt="" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Joplin3.jpg" /> Ten months after the storm, the destruction continues. We are wrapping up our week of service down in Joplin, where the F5 tornado ripped through the town, destroying 7000 homes, 1000 business and schools and devasted lots of lives. I came down three weeks after the storm and witnessed firsthand the blow that this powerful tornado laid on this city. Yet, I see a deeper devastation nearly ten months after the storm than when I was here just a few weeks after the storm. Sure the town is ‘cleaned-up’. New business are rebuilding. New houses are popping up in what looks like an empty field. There are lots of new vehicles on the roads (over 15,000 vehicles were destroyed by the tornado!). But the devastation continues to eat away at this town. As I sit in Chick-fil-a, I see the eyes of a mom who is weary, exhausted and ready to give up. As I talk with a young woman who gets sick every time a thunderstorm approaches, because the reoccurring fear continues to strike her down. I see the devastation as we try to help a woman who is living in a ravaged trailer, with no running water or electricity. I see it in the eyes of the three year old little girl, Addison, who lost her family’s house, and now daddy is not coming home. I hear it in the stories that are shared about the rising divorce rate, the accounts of abuse that are on the rise, and depression from those who cannot escape the mental images of flying debris, dead bodies, bloody hospitals, and war-like scenes. My heart breaks for these people who are trying to get ‘back to normal’. The painful reality is: there is no normal. Life after such a traumatic experience will be very different than what it was before the storm. Many are exalting Restoration in this community, and rightly so! But as hard as they may try, those who suffer post-traumatic stress syndrome cannot reset their minds to its original state. Last Friday, our ministry brought 40 students and staff to Joplin to do what we can to make a difference. We've been able to help about fourteen families in the community...a drop in the bucket compared to all those who have needs. But through the hurt and despair, we have seen a shimmer of hope; a warm smile of appreciation; even a friendly hug from a grandmother who was so blessed to have someone care for her fractured home. Can we fix the town of Joplin....no. But what a blessing it has been to us, to be a blessing to them. My heart breaks for my hometown of Joplin. But somehow that empathy has drawn me closer to the brokenness of humanity. It has been a reminder that this world is not our home. As Hebrews 11 reminds us, there is a better country awaiting us...a heavenly one. But for now, we have to wait out this pounding storm. Joplin Tornado Storm brokenness death destruction ravage hope humanity Attention! http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=284886http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=284886 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT Answer this multiple choice question: “What is the quickest way to gain your attention?”             a. Someone softly speaking.             b. A hand on the shoulder.             c. Someone waving.             d. A punch in the arm. I would argue that a punch in the arm will gain our attention the quickest.  Often times we are in our own little world, headphones in our ears, or cell phone consuming our attention that none of the first three choices affect us or gain our attention, like a punch in the arm!<img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/4642105273_c895bd0f4e.jpg" style="width: 152px; height: 152px; float: right; margin-left: 5px;" /> C.S. Lewis wrote, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains- it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” As I’m preaching through the book of Job, I’m realizing the validity and truth behind this quote in an ever-increasing way.  We all face hurts, sorrow and suffering in this world.  Where do we turn for answers?  Where do we turn for comfort? As I read about these huge disasters that have rocked our world these past couple years, there are some amazing God-stories that rise from the ashes.  As I talk with people who went through serious heartaches and deep sorrow, God emerges as the hero.  As I experience trauma in my own life, I see the fingerprints of God as He is at work through the trials and suffering in my life. <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/8621904-md.jpg" style="width: 142px; height: 180px; float: left; margin-right: 5px;" />Psalm 76:23 says “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Perhaps you just experienced a punch in the arm.  Maybe your arm is bruised from all the punches!  The question for you today is “Do you trust God?”  “Is God your strength and your portion?” The longer I live, the more I see God using the megaphone of pain to get my attention.  In each and every ‘disaster’, God is at work.  Do you see Him?  Just a thought for this morning. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Answer this multiple choice question: “What is the quickest way to gain your attention?” a. Someone softly speaking. b. A hand on the shoulder. c. Someone waving. d. A punch in the arm. I would argue that a punch in the arm will gain our attention the quickest. Often times we are in our own little world, headphones in our ears, or cell phone consuming our attention that none of the first three choices affect us or gain our attention, like a punch in the arm! C.S. Lewis wrote, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains- it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” As I’m preaching through the book of Job, I’m realizing the validity and truth behind this quote in an ever-increasing way. We all face hurts, sorrow and suffering in this world. Where do we turn for answers? Where do we turn for comfort? As I read about these huge disasters that have rocked our world these past couple years, there are some amazing God-stories that rise from the ashes. As I talk with people who went through serious heartaches and deep sorrow, God emerges as the hero. As I experience trauma in my own life, I see the fingerprints of God as He is at work through the trials and suffering in my life. Psalm 76:23 says “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Perhaps you just experienced a punch in the arm. Maybe your arm is bruised from all the punches! The question for you today is “Do you trust God?” “Is God your strength and your portion?” The longer I live, the more I see God using the megaphone of pain to get my attention. In each and every ‘disaster’, God is at work. Do you see Him? Just a thought for this morning. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 attention pain hurt trials suffering God trust help First / Last http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=284430http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=284430 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/finishline.jpg" style="width: 165px; height: 230px; float: left; margin-right: 5px;" /> There is a competitiveness between our two boys...they each desperately strive to be first in everything they do!  Whether it is the first one to the dinner table, the first one to finish his peas, or the first one in the tub; they will do whatever it takes to be first.  My wife and I have tried to teach into these moments, often after an argument breaks out or tears are rolling off our four year olds cheek.  So we began teaching this biblical principle of the first is last and the last is first.   The heart of the principle is humility.  But our boys use it to justify their ‘second place’ finish! In Matthew 20, Jesus gives the parable of the workers in the vineyard.  The story involves a landowner who puts people to work at various times throughout the day.  Then at the end of the day, the master pays his workers all the same, regardless of the number of hours they put in.  The plot thickens as dissention breaks out among the workers who had been there all day.  It’s unfair in their opinion for those who worked only one hour to receive the same pay as those who worked the whole day.  They have a point. But the landowner reminds them that they received exactly what he promised at the start of the day.  And it’s solely up to him who he pays what amount.  He says “are you envious because I am generous?”  Ouch.  I’ve spent my entire life following Jesus.  Certainly there have been times I’ve been more faithful in certain aspects of my walk than others…but I am blessed to have been given a good spiritual foundation early on in life, and God’s grace to keep me on the ‘straight and narrow’ for my thirty four years on this earth.  It’s easy for me to expect my ‘days wages’ for serving the Master of the vineyard. But what about those ‘deathbed conversions’?  The Jeffery Dahlmer story…where the man killed hundreds of people in the Oklahoma City bombing, but on his final hours before he was executed, accepted Christ as His Lord and Savior.  People have a hard time thinking that a man who did such awful things in this world, could ‘squeak’ into heaven under God’s grace. Yet if you understand God’s grace, that’s exactly what it’s about.  Even my four year old will tell you that “All have sinned” and “The wages of sin is death”.  We all deserve an eternity away from the presence of the Lord.  Yet Christ died, once for all, as Hebrews points out.  His grace is sufficient, Paul writes.  For the ones who joined the Kingdom forces at the beginning, to the ones who jumped in as the sun was setting.   Jesus closes the parable by saying “So the last will be first and the first will be last.” – <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/Faith1.jpg" style="width: 167px; height: 167px; float: right; margin-left: 4px;" />Matthew 20:16.   Being a Kingdom minded person means you rejoice when someone (anyone) receives the Gospel, and welcome’s Christ into their lives.  Today, my heart is praying for more workers in the vineyard.  The sun is setting, and I know our Master is generous.  Will you join me in welcoming new workers?  Don’t use the principle to justify a second place [bad attitude] finish!  Receive all those who come into the Kingdom with a heart of gratitude, for we serve the same generous Master. There is a competitiveness between our two boys...they each desperately strive to be first in everything they do! Whether it is the first one to the dinner table, the first one to finish his peas, or the first one in the tub; they will do whatever it takes to be first. My wife and I have tried to teach into these moments, often after an argument breaks out or tears are rolling off our four year olds cheek. So we began teaching this biblical principle of the first is last and the last is first. The heart of the principle is humility. But our boys use it to justify their ‘second place’ finish! In Matthew 20, Jesus gives the parable of the workers in the vineyard. The story involves a landowner who puts people to work at various times throughout the day. Then at the end of the day, the master pays his workers all the same, regardless of the number of hours they put in. The plot thickens as dissention breaks out among the workers who had been there all day. It’s unfair in their opinion for those who worked only one hour to receive the same pay as those who worked the whole day. They have a point. But the landowner reminds them that they received exactly what he promised at the start of the day. And it’s solely up to him who he pays what amount. He says “are you envious because I am generous?” Ouch. I’ve spent my entire life following Jesus. Certainly there have been times I’ve been more faithful in certain aspects of my walk than others…but I am blessed to have been given a good spiritual foundation early on in life, and God’s grace to keep me on the ‘straight and narrow’ for my thirty four years on this earth. It’s easy for me to expect my ‘days wages’ for serving the Master of the vineyard. But what about those ‘deathbed conversions’? The Jeffery Dahlmer story…where the man killed hundreds of people in the Oklahoma City bombing, but on his final hours before he was executed, accepted Christ as His Lord and Savior. People have a hard time thinking that a man who did such awful things in this world, could ‘squeak’ into heaven under God’s grace. Yet if you understand God’s grace, that’s exactly what it’s about. Even my four year old will tell you that “All have sinned” and “The wages of sin is death”. We all deserve an eternity away from the presence of the Lord. Yet Christ died, once for all, as Hebrews points out. His grace is sufficient, Paul writes. For the ones who joined the Kingdom forces at the beginning, to the ones who jumped in as the sun was setting. Jesus closes the parable by saying “So the last will be first and the first will be last.” – Matthew 20:16. Being a Kingdom minded person means you rejoice when someone (anyone) receives the Gospel, and welcome’s Christ into their lives. Today, my heart is praying for more workers in the vineyard. The sun is setting, and I know our Master is generous. Will you join me in welcoming new workers? Don’t use the principle to justify a second place [bad attitude] finish! Receive all those who come into the Kingdom with a heart of gratitude, for we serve the same generous Master. First last second welcome worker pay wages sin Blessings, http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=283536http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=283536 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/1239918580_blessings_xlarge.gif" style="width: 186px; height: 167px; float: left; margin-right: 5px;" />If you’ve ever received an e-mail from you, you would know that I close the e-mail by writing “Blessings” before my signature.  Many pay little attention to this…perhaps as much as one does to any closure to an e-mail.  Yet I do it not for closure sake, but purposefully as I desire to be a person that is a blessing in the life of others and speaks blessings over people around me. According to our English Dictionary, the word blessing means “favored by God.”  If one says “Have a blessed Christmas”, it means “May you experience the favor of God this Christmas season.” Once a month, I pray the “Seven Blessings Prayer” over my family [see below].  This prayer reminds me that “Every good and perfect gift is from above…” –James 1:17.  When praying for these blessings over my family, I am asking requesting the presence of God into each area that greatly influences my family, and each member in my family.  To me, there is nothing greater than requesting God’s presence be infiltrated in and through one’s family and each family member. I had the great privilege to share with my church family in Appleton yesterday.  While speaking mainly on being a person of vision, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to remind them of the Colossians 1:24-29 passage.  Paul relates that he has been commissioned by God to “present the word of God in its fullness”.  Just as he was commissioned, so are we, Christ-followers…commissioned to make known the mystery revealed – “…Christ in you, the hope of glory.”  Blessings. It’s a simple word…yet carries great meaning and implication.  Chapter one of Colossians ends this way: “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.  To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.”  <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/blessing%20to%20others.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 225px; float: right; margin-left: 5px;" /> An e-mail closing or closure to a letter may be simple…but if I can speak a word of blessing over each person I communicate with, to me that is fulfilling a portion of what I am commissioned by God to do.  As you move on this day, may you be a blessing to those around you. Blessings, Jeremy   <h3 style="text-align: center;">Seven Blessings for Families</h3>  “Come, Holy Spirit, into our greatest needs and give us a revelation of Jesus.” I pray a Spiritual blessing.  Come, Holy Spirit, give our family a revelation of God as Abba, Father.  Give us a love relationship with Jesus so strong that we cannot resist Him.  Give us sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and hunger and thirst for righteousness that conforms our conscience to the Word of God.   Create in us the fear of the Lord in relation to sin and genuine repentance.  Give us holy joy in abiding in You. I pray an Emotional blessing.  Come, give our family a revelation of Jesus as healer of emotions.  Release healing to remove the ground for bondages (rejection, failure, resentment, jealousy, shame, etc.).  Let us choose forgiveness for ourselves and others.  Give us freedom from fear because God never fails us.  Grant us a strong sense of hope to believe God for His promises. I pray a Mental blessing.  Come, Spirit of truth, and remove blinders of deception from our minds, so that we may know the truth and have godly wisdom and discernment. I pray a Personal blessing.  Come, give us a sense of our personal value in Christ.  Plant in us God-given vision for Your calling on our lives.  Give us favor with God and with man. I pray the blessing of right relationship with authority.  Come, teach us submission to God-given authority and counsel.  Direct us toward right loyalties, godly soul ties, and healthy friendships that encourage us in our walk with You. I pray a Physical blessing.  Come, cover us with Your protective hedge of safety, strength, and good health.  We plead Psalm 91. I pray a Financial blessing.  Come, give us Your provision and right relationship to what You give.  Let us acknowledge You as our Source and Provider.  I pray blessings.  I speak blessings.  I choose to be a blessing.   If you’ve ever received an e-mail from you, you would know that I close the e-mail by writing “Blessings” before my signature. Many pay little attention to this…perhaps as much as one does to any closure to an e-mail. Yet I do it not for closure sake, but purposefully as I desire to be a person that is a blessing in the life of others and speaks blessings over people around me. According to our English Dictionary, the word blessing means “favored by God.” If one says “Have a blessed Christmas”, it means “May you experience the favor of God this Christmas season.” Once a month, I pray the “Seven Blessings Prayer” over my family [see below]. This prayer reminds me that “Every good and perfect gift is from above…” –James 1:17. When praying for these blessings over my family, I am asking requesting the presence of God into each area that greatly influences my family, and each member in my family. To me, there is nothing greater than requesting God’s presence be infiltrated in and through one’s family and each family member. I had the great privilege to share with my church family in Appleton yesterday. While speaking mainly on being a person of vision, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to remind them of the Colossians 1:24-29 passage. Paul relates that he has been commissioned by God to “present the word of God in its fullness”. Just as he was commissioned, so are we, Christ-followers…commissioned to make known the mystery revealed – “…Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Blessings. It’s a simple word…yet carries great meaning and implication. Chapter one of Colossians ends this way: “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.” An e-mail closing or closure to a letter may be simple…but if I can speak a word of blessing over each person I communicate with, to me that is fulfilling a portion of what I am commissioned by God to do. As you move on this day, may you be a blessing to those around you. Blessings, Jeremy Seven Blessings for Families “Come, Holy Spirit, into our greatest needs and give us a revelation of Jesus.” I pray a Spiritual blessing. Come, Holy Spirit, give our family a revelation of God as Abba, Father. Give us a love relationship with Jesus so strong that we cannot resist Him. Give us sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and hunger and thirst for righteousness that conforms our conscience to the Word of God. Create in us the fear of the Lord in relation to sin and genuine repentance. Give us holy joy in abiding in You. I pray an Emotional blessing. Come, give our family a revelation of Jesus as healer of emotions. Release healing to remove the ground for bondages (rejection, failure, resentment, jealousy, shame, etc.). Let us choose forgiveness for ourselves and others. Give us freedom from fear because God never fails us. Grant us a strong sense of hope to believe God for His promises. I pray a Mental blessing. Come, Spirit of truth, and remove blinders of deception from our minds, so that we may know the truth and have godly wisdom and discernment. I pray a Personal blessing. Come, give us a sense of our personal value in Christ. Plant in us God-given... Blessing edify spiritual others seven blessings prayer Do you know Jesus? http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=282825http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=282825 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" width="562" height="163" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/whoisjesusreally.jpg" style="vertical-align: top; margin-bottom: 5px;" /> This morning, I came across Matthew 12…a powerful statement of WHO Christ Jesus is.  The Old Testament prophesied on his power, the people of Jesus’ day experienced His power…even Jesus himself stated his greatness.  In this one chapter we find these statements: The disciples found themselves hungry on the Sabbath.  It was unlawful to ‘do work’ on this most holy day.  The Pharisees went to great extent to make sure people followed the letter of the law…much to the dismay of Jesus.  In Matthew 12:6, Jesus is in the heat of a debate and states the obvious to them: “I tell you that something greater than the temple is here.”  I have to believe this shocked the religious leaders, as they tried to piece this together with their argument on what is and what isn’t lawful on the Sabbath. A little later in the chapter Jesus begins healing many people in the crowd.  Miracles abound from this man…so much so, that Matthew, who is a scholar of the old testament, records a prophecy of Isaiah that spoke of who Jesus, the Messiah, would be: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth.  In his teaching the islands will put their hope.” (Isaiah 42:1-4) At the end of Matthew 12, Jesus casts a demon out of a man.  This causes fear, wonder and amazement from the people who knew this man.  They couldn’t resist speaking the begging question: “Could this be the Son of David?”  aka…the Messiah? Matthew holds nothing back.  He knows Jesus for he truly is…the Son of God; the Messiah. Do you know Jesus today?  Today, you  have opportunity to learn about Him.  You have an opportunity to experience Him in His fullness today.  Today, you can share Jesus with those around you.  As Hebrews 3:15 says, “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…” Today, may Christ speak to, in and through you. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CANPGvvq1gE" target="_blank"> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CANPGvvq1gE</a> This morning, I came across Matthew 12…a powerful statement of WHO Christ Jesus is. The Old Testament prophesied on his power, the people of Jesus’ day experienced His power…even Jesus himself stated his greatness. In this one chapter we find these statements: The disciples found themselves hungry on the Sabbath. It was unlawful to ‘do work’ on this most holy day. The Pharisees went to great extent to make sure people followed the letter of the law…much to the dismay of Jesus. In Matthew 12:6, Jesus is in the heat of a debate and states the obvious to them: “I tell you that something greater than the temple is here .” I have to believe this shocked the religious leaders, as they tried to piece this together with their argument on what is and what isn’t lawful on the Sabbath. A little later in the chapter Jesus begins healing many people in the crowd. Miracles abound from this man…so much so, that Matthew, who is a scholar of the old testament, records a prophecy of Isaiah that spoke of who Jesus, the Messiah, would be: “ Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his teaching the islands will put their hope.” (Isaiah 42:1-4) At the end of Matthew 12, Jesus casts a demon out of a man. This causes fear, wonder and amazement from the people who knew this man. They couldn’t resist speaking the begging question: “Could this be the Son of David?” aka…the Messiah? Matthew holds nothing back. He knows Jesus for he truly is…the Son of God; the Messiah. Do you know Jesus today? Today, you have opportunity to learn about Him. You have an opportunity to experience Him in His fullness today. Today, you can share Jesus with those around you. As Hebrews 3:15 says, “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…” Today, may Christ speak to, in and through you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CANPGvvq1gE Jesus Messiah Savior Lord know healer I have a Dream http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=282726http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=282726 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/King-Jr-Martin-Luther.jpg" style="width: 199px; height: 238px; float: left; margin-right: 5px;" /> For the past week, I have been listening to Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. speech,  “I have a dream.”  This fifteen minute speech is brilliantly crafted, spoken with passion, powerful words, and the persuasive call that sparked a revolution in America.  I have a great respect and appreciation for men and women who are great visionaries; who use the power of words to inspire, bring hope and lead a revolution. God used Rev. Martin Luther King to change a nation. August 28th, 1963.  Less than fifty years ago these words rang from our nation’s capital.  It was a demonstration march for freedom.  A demonstration that changed the fabric of our nation and a culture that was removed from it’s founding truths.  Rev. King used a humble approach in this infamous speech.  He speaks words of encouragement: “Let us not wallow in the valley of despair…”  Calling those affected by hurts and injustice to not hold onto bitterness or live in despair.  Turn to God in your time of need.  He tells those who were there for the demonstration to “go back” to your state and your position in society…not with despair, but with hope that things will change for the better. He calls America back to its roots:  “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal…’”  Powerful.  Persuasive. <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/martin_luther_king-2012-hp.jpg" style="float: right; margin-left: 4px;" />One line that stands out to me the most is during the “I have a dream” part where he says: “I have a dream, that one day my four little children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” Character is word in this society that has very little value.  We use it in the sense of a TV show, or cartoon character.  But what about the moral and ethical quality of an individual?  Qualities of honesty, courage, or integrity…these are words of character that should be frontrunners when we look at an individual.  Rev. King is correct that we should not judge someone because of their skin color, but are we judging people on character…or other shallow values?  Wealth.  Status in society.  Clothing they wear.  Car they drive.  House they live in.  Character ought to be a high value in our assessment of an individual. Today, I am thankful for Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.  God used him to spark a revolution, to change the fabric of society.  To listen/watch the entire fifteen minutes of this speech, go to:  <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs</a>   For the past week, I have been listening to Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. speech, “I have a dream.” This fifteen minute speech is brilliantly crafted, spoken with passion, powerful words, and the persuasive call that sparked a revolution in America. I have a great respect and appreciation for men and women who are great visionaries; who use the power of words to inspire, bring hope and lead a revolution. God used Rev. Martin Luther King to change a nation. August 28 th , 1963. Less than fifty years ago these words rang from our nation’s capital. It was a demonstration march for freedom. A demonstration that changed the fabric of our nation and a culture that was removed from it’s founding truths. Rev. King used a humble approach in this infamous speech. He speaks words of encouragement: “Let us not wallow in the valley of despair…” Calling those affected by hurts and injustice to not hold onto bitterness or live in despair. Turn to God in your time of need. He tells those who were there for the demonstration to “go back” to your state and your position in society…not with despair, but with hope that things will change for the better. He calls America back to its roots: “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal…’” Powerful. Persuasive. One line that stands out to me the most is during the “I have a dream” part where he says: “I have a dream, that one day my four little children will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” Character is word in this society that has very little value. We use it in the sense of a TV show, or cartoon character. But what about the moral and ethical quality of an individual? Qualities of honesty, courage, or integrity…these are words of character that should be frontrunners when we look at an individual. Rev. King is correct that we should not judge someone because of their skin color, but are we judging people on character…or other shallow values? Wealth. Status in society. Clothing they wear. Car they drive. House they live in. Character ought to be a high value in our assessment of an individual. Today, I am thankful for Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. God used him to spark a revolution, to change the fabric of society. To listen/watch the entire fifteen minutes of this speech, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs Dream Martin Luther King Jr nation character integrity fabric society The Obvious Answer http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=281306http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=281306 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT Don’t you love getting an obvious answer?!  Sometimes people ask me a thought provoking or deep question, and I’ll jokingly respond with a trite answer…much to their dismay sometimes!<img alt="" width="149" height="149" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/cedar-2x4.jpg" style="float: right; margin-left: 5px;" /> Yet sometimes we BEG God for the obvious, don’t we?  “God I want to know your will on ______, so hit me in the head with a two by four that has the answer written right on it.”  Isn’t that our prayer sometimes?  God, make it painfully obvious.  I’m there now in fact!<img alt="" /><img alt="" /> Genesis 24 gives me hope for that two by four prayer!  Abraham sends his servant back to his hometown to find a bride for his son, Isaac.  Abraham is very specific in what he wants in a young lady for Isaac.  He doesn’t want Isaac to marry anyone from among the cannanites where they are currently living.  So the servant sets off and arrives in Abrahams hometown.  Where do you look for a prospective bride for your master’s son?  How is this process suppose to go?  “God, what’s your will here?” That’s exactly what the servant turns to: prayer.  He says a quick prayer to the Lord, and even throws in a few specifics for God to fulfill, so that the servant will know THIS is the one from the Lord.  Then verse 15 comes.  “Before he had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder.” “Before he had finished praying…”  Did you catch that?  I love the two by four to the head answers!  How exciting is that?  A quick answer.  A prayer request fulfilled BEFORE it was even off the lips of the petitioner.  God does that…when He wants to!  Do you expect it?  You should.  Maybe not a quick answer, but expect an answer. <img alt="" width="224" height="150" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/GAP-god-answers.jpg" style="float: left; margin-right: 5px;" /> Several years ago, the Christian sub-culture produced a bunch of GAP apparel…do you remember this?  God Answers Prayer (GAP).  It was kinda lame, but got peoples attention.  It’s true.  God always answers prayer.  Maybe not in our timing.  Maybe not in our desired ways.  Maybe not even before our eyes, or on ‘our watch.’   Yet He does answer prayer. I prayed for twenty years that my dad would come to know Lord on a personal, intimate and honest relational level…so that he would experience the joy of living for God, rather that himself.  My dad passed away last June having had experienced that joyful living with God for several years prior to his death!  Weekly I spend time praying for each of my children’s future, specifically for their spouse and their families, that they may be continue a legacy of faith and trust in the One True and Holy God.  I may never have the opportunity to meet their spouse or children, but I trust that God hears my prayers…and more importantly, that He answers those prayers. Don’t look for the quick ‘two by four to the head’ answers to prayer…because they are few and far between.  But today, ask yourself if you are trusting Him with your life, your circumstances, and those people around you that you love and cherish.   As scripture reminds us:  “Pray continually.”  “Pray without ceasing.”  “The prayer of the righteous man is powerful and effective.” Don’t you love getting an obvious answer?! Sometimes people ask me a thought provoking or deep question, and I’ll jokingly respond with a trite answer…much to their dismay sometimes! Yet sometimes we BEG God for the obvious, don’t we? “God I want to know your will on ______, so hit me in the head with a two by four that has the answer written right on it.” Isn’t that our prayer sometimes? God, make it painfully obvious. I’m there now in fact! Genesis 24 gives me hope for that two by four prayer! Abraham sends his servant back to his hometown to find a bride for his son, Isaac. Abraham is very specific in what he wants in a young lady for Isaac. He doesn’t want Isaac to marry anyone from among the cannanites where they are currently living. So the servant sets off and arrives in Abrahams hometown. Where do you look for a prospective bride for your master’s son? How is this process suppose to go? “God, what’s your will here?” That’s exactly what the servant turns to: prayer. He says a quick prayer to the Lord, and even throws in a few specifics for God to fulfill, so that the servant will know THIS is the one from the Lord. Then verse 15 comes. “Before he had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder.” “Before he had finished praying…” Did you catch that? I love the two by four to the head answers! How exciting is that? A quick answer. A prayer request fulfilled BEFORE it was even off the lips of the petitioner. God does that…when He wants to! Do you expect it? You should. Maybe not a quick answer, but expect an answer. Several years ago, the Christian sub-culture produced a bunch of GAP apparel…do you remember this? God Answers Prayer (GAP). It was kinda lame, but got peoples attention. It’s true. God always answers prayer. Maybe not in our timing. Maybe not in our desired ways. Maybe not even before our eyes, or on ‘our watch.’ Yet He does answer prayer. I prayed for twenty years that my dad would come to know Lord on a personal, intimate and honest relational level…so that he would experience the joy of living for God, rather that himself. My dad passed away last June having had experienced that joyful living with God for several years prior to his death! Weekly I spend time praying for each of my children’s future, specifically for their spouse and their families, that they may be continue a legacy of faith and trust in the One True and Holy God. I may never have the opportunity to meet their spouse or children, but I trust that God hears my prayers…and more importantly, that He answers those prayers. Don’t look for the quick ‘two by four to the head’ answers to prayer…because they are few and far between. But today, ask yourself if you are trusting Him with your life, your circumstances, and those people around you that you love and cherish. As scripture reminds us: “Pray continually.” “Pray without ceasing.” “The prayer of the righteous man is powerful and effective.” Prayer Gods will answer trust surrender trusting Known http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=281302http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=281302 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/8621904-md.jpg" style="float: left; width: 197px; height: 250px; margin-right: 5px;" />Why do we complicate life?  We think we know what’s best, but we fail miserably sometimes.  Have you ever experienced that?  In the heat of the moment, you make a ‘rash decision’, then later regretted it because of the outcome and the misery you now face.  Had you taken time to think that out, you would have been a little more patient, with the end results more favorable.  Just yesterday when we were coming home from running around a bit with the family, I reacted a little too quick in my ‘discipline’ with my son because of his negative attitude with his brother.   Then after a few minutes, I realized that what privilege I told him he would lose was a little overboard and was pretty harsh.  Yet now, I was in the dilemma of ‘forgetting’ my comment when we got home, thus it was just a threat, or carrying through on something that was a bit over the top for a harsh attitude.   With one quick authoritative comment, I complicated our afternoon, and put myself in a position to have my authority compromised. In Genesis 16, we find a compelling story that complicated the entire human race because of one stupid, quick decision.  God promised Abraham something he and Sarah couldn’t achieve on their own: children.  Not just children, but descendants as numerous as the stars!  It was a huge promise; one that Abraham and Sarah couldn’t believe.  When the promise went unfulfilled for years, Abraham and Sarah decided to take matters in their own hands.  Sarah gave Abraham her maidservant to procreate and ‘help God’ in fulfilling this promise.  Bad idea. This was one of those bad ideas that not only affected Abraham, Sarah and Hagar (the maidservant), but still affects us TODAY (the reason there will NEVER be, in my opinion, peace in the middle east).  Hagar bore a son, name Ishmael…who not only was NOT part of God’s original plan, but later became a nation that went to war with the son of promise (Isaac) and is still today at war with God’s chosen people. The story turns sour after Hagar becomes pregnant by Abraham, because Sarah (who gave Hagar to Sarah to impregnate) starts to ‘hate’ on Hagar.  She abuses her, mistreats her, and is plain ‘ole mean to Hagar – to the point that Hagar runs away.  She runs till she can’t anymore.  And then God shows up.  This was not his original plan, but God loves on Hagar. He shows up, meets her physical needs, restores her emotional need, and gives her hope as He sends her back to her abusive master.  It’s quite the moment that God has with Hagar.  The moment was meaningful enough to Hagar that she names the place.  She calls it “Beer Laha Roi”.   Beer Laha Roi.  <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/data:image/png;base64,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" /> Go ahead and say it!  In fact say it again.  And again.  The meaning is rich!  You’ll find Hagars interpretation of the phrase in Genesis 16:13: “Even here have I looked after the One seeing me!"   The whole compound carries a myriad of meanings: The Declaration That Makes Life Visible. The Explanation That Shows The Image Of Life The Well Of Life Vision Of The Life That Sees Me. Do you get the picture?  She is saying that she has seen the One who knows her intimately; the One who sees her deepest hurts and fears;  the One who brings life vision to her. Today, you have the opportunity to know the One who knows you intimately.  Psalm 139:1 says “You have searched me Lord, and you know me.”  God knows each one of us deeply and intimately.  Psalm 139 details out just how intimately He knows you and me.  And He gives us the opportunity to know Him!  To me that’s incredible.  Jesus invites us to draw near to God, and He will draw near to us.  Today, may you claim “Beer Laha Roi”.  I have seen the One who knows me intimately! Why do we complicate life? We think we know what’s best, but we fail miserably sometimes. Have you ever experienced that? In the heat of the moment, you make a ‘rash decision’, then later regretted it because of the outcome and the misery you now face. Had you taken time to think that out, you would have been a little more patient, with the end results more favorable. Just yesterday when we were coming home from running around a bit with the family, I reacted a little too quick in my ‘discipline’ with my son because of his negative attitude with his brother. Then after a few minutes, I realized that what privilege I told him he would lose was a little overboard and was pretty harsh. Yet now, I was in the dilemma of ‘forgetting’ my comment when we got home, thus it was just a threat, or carrying through on something that was a bit over the top for a harsh attitude. With one quick authoritative comment, I complicated our afternoon, and put myself in a position to have my authority compromised. In Genesis 16, we find a compelling story that complicated the entire human race because of one stupid, quick decision. God promised Abraham something he and Sarah couldn’t achieve on their own: children. Not just children, but descendants as numerous as the stars! It was a huge promise; one that Abraham and Sarah couldn’t believe. When the promise went unfulfilled for years, Abraham and Sarah decided to take matters in their own hands. Sarah gave Abraham her maidservant to procreate and ‘help God’ in fulfilling this promise. Bad idea. This was one of those bad ideas that not only affected Abraham, Sarah and Hagar (the maidservant), but still affects us TODAY (the reason there will NEVER be, in my opinion, peace in the middle east). Hagar bore a son, name Ishmael…who not only was NOT part of God’s original plan, but later became a nation that went to war with the son of promise (Isaac) and is still today at war with God’s chosen people. The story turns sour after Hagar becomes pregnant by Abraham, because Sarah (who gave Hagar to Sarah to impregnate) starts to ‘hate’ on Hagar. She abuses her, mistreats her, and is plain ‘ole mean to Hagar – to the point that Hagar runs away. She runs till she can’t anymore. And then God shows up. This was not his original plan, but God loves on Hagar. He shows up, meets her physical needs, restores her emotional need, and gives her hope as He sends her back to her abusive master. It’s quite the moment that God has with Hagar. The moment was meaningful enough to Hagar that she names the place. She calls it “Beer Laha Roi”. Beer Laha Roi. Go ahead and say it! In fact say it again. And again. The meaning is rich! You’ll find Hagars interpretation of the phrase in Genesis 16:13: “Even here have I looked after the One seeing me!" The whole compound carries a myriad of meanings: The Declaration That Makes Life Visible. The Explanation That Shows The Image Of Life The Well Of Life Vision Of The Life That Sees Me. Do you get the picture? She is saying that she has seen the One who knows her intimately; the One who sees her deepest hurts and fears; the One who brings life vision to her. Today, you have the opportunity to know the One who knows you intimately. Psalm 139:1 says “You have searched me Lord, and you know me.” God knows each one of us deeply and intimately.... Hagar Abraham Sarah Ishmael known loved abused redeem blessing running The "be" attitudes. http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=280475http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=280475 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT Have you ever spent much time meditating on the Beatitudes, found in Matthew 5:3-12?  This morning I did just that…they are rich in meaning!  Take thirty seconds here and read them: “He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,<img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/456px-Saint_Cajetan_Church,_Gustavo_A._Madero,_Federal_District,_Mexico11.jpg" style="width: 240px; height: 316px; float: right;" />    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn,    for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek,    for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,    for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful,    for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart,    for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers,    for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” The word “blessed” means “divinely favored.”  We are favored by God for having these attitudes, intentions and for enduring persecution in the name of Jesus Christ.  <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/415px-TissotBeatitudes.JPG" style="width: 225px; height: 325px; float: left; margin-right: 4px;" />The list that Jesus gives us is not a ‘highly sought after’ list.  Who actually wants to be known as meek.  Who really wants to mourn…or be persecuted!  I can tell you that these are not necessarily things that I put on my character building ‘to do’ list. Yet Jesus says that we will be divinely favored for these actions and attitudes. Today, would you join me in praying for these?  To ask God to grow in us these areas and to have the understanding and courage to enact these areas into our lives? Perhaps the place to start is memorization.  Memorize the beatitudes, so that in the moment of spiritual battle you encounter, you may remember these words of exhortation from the Lord. May you experience God’s favor today, as you pursue His wisdom and understanding on these things. Have you ever spent much time meditating on the Beatitudes, found in Matthew 5:3-12? This morning I did just that…they are rich in meaning! Take thirty seconds here and read them: “He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” The word “blessed” means “divinely favored.” We are favored by God for having these attitudes, intentions and for enduring persecution in the name of Jesus Christ. The list that Jesus gives us is not a ‘highly sought after’ list. Who actually wants to be known as meek. Who really wants to mourn…or be persecuted! I can tell you that these are not necessarily things that I put on my character building ‘to do’ list. Yet Jesus says that we will be divinely favored for these actions and attitudes. Today, would you join me in praying for these? To ask God to grow in us these areas and to have the understanding and courage to enact these areas into our lives? Perhaps the place to start is memorization. Memorize the beatitudes, so that in the moment of spiritual battle you encounter, you may remember these words of exhortation from the Lord. May you experience God’s favor today, as you pursue His wisdom and understanding on these things. beatitudes service Jesus Matthew blessed favored What a wretched man am I http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=280430http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=280430 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:00:00 GMT So I took some time off writing this blog, partly from needing a break from writing, but mostly to spend more time focused on family activities.  But alas, 2012 is in full swing, so I am back to making a three blog per week commitment!  <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/12723134-md.jpg" style="width: 225px; height: 170px; float: right;" />Today, I spent some serious time Romans 3-4.  If you need to be reminded how much you DESPERATELY NEED God, read those two chapters.  Romans 3:10-20 are pretty clear that we humans are inherently full of evil!  As Romans 3:23 says, “…for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…”  However the “…” is there because we are not without hope.  Romans 3:24 says “…and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”  That word “justified” gets me every time.  Do you know what it means?  Rough translation: “just as if I’d never sinned”.  Justified.  The ‘work’ that Christ did on the cross, made it possible for a filthy evil person like me, to “enter into the throne room of heaven with confidence”, as the writer of Hebrews puts it.  Because it’s just as if I’d never sinned against God.  Amazing. I purposely pursued this section of scripture today, because I’ve been struggling with my ‘evilness’.  A better way to put it perhaps is my flesh-ness.  My  humanness.  I struggle at times with things like: “Why did I just have that thought?”  “What was that dream about!?” “Why did I treat that person like that?”…etc.  You know what I’m talking about. I desire perfection. I desire to act, think, behave, speak like that of a Christ follower.  That’s all I want.  So what’s up? Paul has the same reaction, in what I like to call the ‘do-do’ section.  Romans 7:19-20, 24 says “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing.  Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it…What a wretched man I am!  Who will rescue me from this body of death?” Paul builds this epiphany of personal struggle and ends it by saying “Thanks be to God – through Jesus Christ our Lord!”  Chapter 8 starts out with “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” Whew. It’s good to be reminded of that. Better than that, it’s good to bring closer to 2011, with all the mistakes, hurts, shortcomings, and downfalls you may have initiated…and to rest in Romans 8:1.  I do. And as I begin 2012, I am striving to remain submitted before God on a daily basis, so it is His power working through me, and not my flesh that is at work.  May you experience the same freedom of complete surrender to Him as you enter this new year. So I took some time off writing this blog, partly from needing a break from writing, but mostly to spend more time focused on family activities. But alas, 2012 is in full swing, so I am back to making a three blog per week commitment! Today, I spent some serious time Romans 3-4. If you need to be reminded how much you DESPERATELY NEED God, read those two chapters. Romans 3:10-20 are pretty clear that we humans are inherently full of evil! As Romans 3:23 says, “…for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” However the “…” is there because we are not without hope. Romans 3:24 says “…and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” That word “justified” gets me every time. Do you know what it means? Rough translation: “just as if I’d never sinned”. Justified. The ‘work’ that Christ did on the cross, made it possible for a filthy evil person like me, to “enter into the throne room of heaven with confidence”, as the writer of Hebrews puts it. Because it’s just as if I’d never sinned against God. Amazing. I purposely pursued this section of scripture today, because I’ve been struggling with my ‘evilness’. A better way to put it perhaps is my flesh-ness. My humanness. I struggle at times with things like: “Why did I just have that thought?” “What was that dream about!?” “Why did I treat that person like that?”…etc. You know what I’m talking about. I desire perfection. I desire to act, think, behave, speak like that of a Christ follower. That’s all I want. So what’s up? Paul has the same reaction, in what I like to call the ‘do-do’ section. Romans 7:19-20, 24 says “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it…What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?” Paul builds this epiphany of personal struggle and ends it by saying “Thanks be to God – through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Chapter 8 starts out with “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” Whew. It’s good to be reminded of that. Better than that, it’s good to bring closer to 2011, with all the mistakes, hurts, shortcomings, and downfalls you may have initiated…and to rest in Romans 8:1. I do. And as I begin 2012, I am striving to remain submitted before God on a daily basis, so it is His power working through me, and not my flesh that is at work. May you experience the same freedom of complete surrender to Him as you enter this new year. wretched Romans condemnation Christ Jesus eternity love compassion saved death Look away! http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=276457http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=276457 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/800px-The_sun1.jpg" style="width: 301px; height: 226px; float: right; margin-left: 5px;" />“Don’t stare at the sun!”  Ah…mom’s words were so true.  If you stare at the sun, you’re blinded by the intensity of light!  According to Wikipedia: “[Looking directly at the sun] delivers about 4 milliwatts of sunlight to the retina, slightly heating it and potentially causing damage in eyes that cannot respond properly to the brightness.”  We’ve all tried it sometime or another…even if not on purpose. The ‘blindness’ that occurs after you look at the sun, although temporary, doesn’t permit you to see anything else.  The intensity of it consumes your sight, and you’re left blinded, waiting for your sight to be restored. After Black Friday, I wrote a blog on the greed of America.  Why consumerism is so much on my mind and heart lately, I’m not entirely sure.  But let me propose yet again, that our stuff can consume us.  This morning, in my reading time I came across Revelation 3:17, which says: “You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.” These two sentences come in the middle of a rebuke to the church at Laodicea.  The rebuke starts out by calling them lukewarm, neither hot nor cold.  Mediocrity ruled their spiritual life, and they were content with their stuff.  God sees this and calls them out on it.  They didn’t see their spiritual condition because they were blinded by the intensity of their riches around them.  Does this sound familiar to you?  Perhaps you recognize it too.  It’s becoming painfully obvious to me this ‘holiday’ season.  The rich seem to spend frivolously (I’m guilty too), and the poor seem to be in greater need. <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/doorway.jpg" style="width: 221px; height: 166px; float: left; margin-right: 4px;" />Yet God doesn’t leave the church of Laodicea without hope.  He ends the rebuke by saying this to them: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”  That sounds to me like an invitation for a personal relationship with Christ!   But we have to get over our blindness to even find the door.  That’s the key to sup’ing with Christ.  We have to take our eyes off the stuff, let our eyesight readjust so we can find the door, then go open it!  Seems easy…but it’s not. In our FPU class last night, Dave reminded us of the difficulty to move beyond the ‘ownership’ mentality of our money, to the stewardship principle.  If we’re honest with ourselves, there is NOTHING on this earth that we can take with us when we die.  We don’t own anything.  And when we recognize that principle, there is a freedom.  Freedom from the stuff.  Freedom from the blindness of stuff.  Freedom to just be content with Christ. Today may you have the discipline to get your eyes off of the blinding consumerism that pervades us, let your eyes adjust…and go open the door.  Christ is knocking, ready for to ‘sup with you.   “Don’t stare at the sun!” Ah…mom’s words were so true. If you stare at the sun, you’re blinded by the intensity of light! According to Wikipedia: “[Looking directly at the sun] delivers about 4 milliwatts of sunlight to the retina, slightly heating it and potentially causing damage in eyes that cannot respond properly to the brightness.” We’ve all tried it sometime or another…even if not on purpose. The ‘blindness’ that occurs after you look at the sun, although temporary, doesn’t permit you to see anything else. The intensity of it consumes your sight, and you’re left blinded, waiting for your sight to be restored. After Black Friday, I wrote a blog on the greed of America. Why consumerism is so much on my mind and heart lately, I’m not entirely sure. But let me propose yet again, that our stuff can consume us. This morning, in my reading time I came across Revelation 3:17, which says: “You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.” These two sentences come in the middle of a rebuke to the church at Laodicea. The rebuke starts out by calling them lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. Mediocrity ruled their spiritual life, and they were content with their stuff. God sees this and calls them out on it. They didn’t see their spiritual condition because they were blinded by the intensity of their riches around them. Does this sound familiar to you? Perhaps you recognize it too. It’s becoming painfully obvious to me this ‘holiday’ season. The rich seem to spend frivolously (I’m guilty too), and the poor seem to be in greater need. Yet God doesn’t leave the church of Laodicea without hope. He ends the rebuke by saying this to them: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” That sounds to me like an invitation for a personal relationship with Christ! But we have to get over our blindness to even find the door. That’s the key to sup’ing with Christ. We have to take our eyes off the stuff, let our eyesight readjust so we can find the door, then go open it! Seems easy…but it’s not. In our FPU class last night, Dave reminded us of the difficulty to move beyond the ‘ownership’ mentality of our money, to the stewardship principle. If we’re honest with ourselves, there is NOTHING on this earth that we can take with us when we die. We don’t own anything. And when we recognize that principle, there is a freedom. Freedom from the stuff. Freedom from the blindness of stuff. Freedom to just be content with Christ. Today may you have the discipline to get your eyes off of the blinding consumerism that pervades us, let your eyes adjust…and go open the door. Christ is knocking, ready for to ‘sup with you. blindness pride humility love peace God hope door light darkness fullness Too weighty for a Monday? http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=275490http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=275490 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:00:00 GMT What happens when someone experiences God for the first time?  Throughout the OT, there is a tremor felt deep within the soul when people first encounter the Living God.  And not only His presence, but even His people who bring Truth affect those around them to stand (or fall) in wonder and amazement of who God is.  I began reading the book of Daniel today.  The book begins by describing the character and integrity of this man, Daniel.  He is a shining example of a man who held out for the honor and glory of God, despite what circumstances around him tried to provoke him otherwise.  Daniel was righteous and brought such great honor to the Lord, he is forever remembered for his courage that was displayed because of his deep conviction of God’s nature and an in-depth understanding of God’s power over all things. One night the king had a disturbing dream and found that no one could interpret it.  He was turned on to Daniel, who came before the king with humility and was honest with the king in his God-guided interpretation of the dream.  This blew the king away.  So much so, he said “The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.” – Daniel 2:47 God’s power was recognized because of one godly man’s courage to speak truth. I John 4:12 says “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”  Today those around you can see God.  They may not have a face to face encounter with the Almighty Himself, but YOU can be the hands and feet of Jesus.  It’s a position of power when you understand and act upon the promises that God has spoken to us through His Word. When it comes to our words, the book of James says our tongue has the power to bring life or death.  It’s weighty stuff for a Monday morning!  But what a privilege it is to know the King and to live a life surrendered to Him. Today, may God’s power be recognized by those around you BECAUSE you are intentional to speak words of life, and to seek ways to be the hands and feet of Jesus.<img alt="" width="550" height="184" style="vertical-align: text-bottom; margin-top: 5px;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/serve.jpg" /> What happens when someone experiences God for the first time? Throughout the OT, there is a tremor felt deep within the soul when people first encounter the Living God. And not only His presence, but even His people who bring Truth affect those around them to stand (or fall) in wonder and amazement of who God is. I began reading the book of Daniel today. The book begins by describing the character and integrity of this man, Daniel. He is a shining example of a man who held out for the honor and glory of God, despite what circumstances around him tried to provoke him otherwise. Daniel was righteous and brought such great honor to the Lord, he is forever remembered for his courage that was displayed because of his deep conviction of God’s nature and an in-depth understanding of God’s power over all things. One night the king had a disturbing dream and found that no one could interpret it. He was turned on to Daniel, who came before the king with humility and was honest with the king in his God-guided interpretation of the dream. This blew the king away. So much so, he said “The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.” – Daniel 2:47 God’s power was recognized because of one godly man’s courage to speak truth. I John 4:12 says “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” Today those around you can see God. They may not have a face to face encounter with the Almighty Himself, but YOU can be the hands and feet of Jesus. It’s a position of power when you understand and act upon the promises that God has spoken to us through His Word. When it comes to our words, the book of James says our tongue has the power to bring life or death. It’s weighty stuff for a Monday morning! But what a privilege it is to know the King and to live a life surrendered to Him. Today, may God’s power be recognized by those around you BECAUSE you are intentional to speak words of life, and to seek ways to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Serving Love Daniel dream vision trust character integrity honor God E brings humility to light! http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=274837http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=274837 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/drybones.gif" style="float: right; margin-left: 3px;" />In Ezekiel there is a very peculiar passage (actually, there are several of them!).  The one I was reading this morning is titled “The Valley of Dry Bones” and is found in chapter 37 of Ezekiel.  I’m a literalist when it comes to scripture…I believe that what the bible says actually happened!  Yes big fish, flooding of the whole earth, parting of the seas, one sandwich feeding 5000 people…etc.  God’s Word ought to be taken for what it says, not dependant on mans feeble interpretation of it. So I’m reading this horror movie script, found in Ezekiel 37, of bones coming together and growing tendons and muscle and flesh; then they stand up alive as a massive army!  Really?  Did that really happen?  Or is simply metaphorical for what God is speaking to the people of Israel through his servant and prophet Ezekiel?  Either way, the Lord spoke two important messages to me this morning that I want to share with you out of this passage. The first is one of humility and recognition of who God is.  God comes to Ezekiel and shows him, at great length, the massive valley full of bones.  Then he poses this question to Ezekiel: “Do you think these bones can live?”  Perhaps E is thinking, “Is this a trick question?”  These bones are not only bones, they are dry, laying in a wasteland!  Seriously?  But E answers God this way: “Sovereign Lord, You alone know.”  If there is one statement by which to live your life, it should be that!  “Sovereign Lord, You alone know.”  Don’t get this statement confused with the slang you often hear today: “God knows…”  Oh, yes, He does know.  But that sarcastic statement doesn’t reflect a heart of worship.  I believe E is worshiping God and showing great honor to Him by that statement.  God is Sovereign.  He alone knows. I find security in this fact.  I was demonstrating the importance of faith yesterday to my son Jonathan.  I used the ‘trust fall’ as an example.  He readily got that example, because he knows without a doubt I will catch him.  I’ve done it a thousand times before, and I will catch Him again.  That’s how my Heavenly Father is too.  He has caught me time and time again.  I read Ps. 139 and am given a sense of security knowing that God created my inmost being, and knows where I sit and where I lie…he knows my thoughts, my heart, and who I am from the inside out.  I can trust Him.  I’m okay not knowing the answers to life’s questions BECAUSE I trust God knows what’s up, and  He’s got my back. So, I said two things didn’t I?  Right around verse 14, God says this: “I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD.”  E is suppose to prophesy to the God’s people that God will bring them back…God will revive them and put His spirit of life back into these ‘dead’ people who are in bondage of slavery. God says he will settle them back into their land…the land that was He had promised for them. The dead will live.  The captives are set free.  God’s faithfulness is revealed.  This statement of the Lords, followed up by E’s statement of trust, completes the picture.  I am reminded this morning that God’s vision for us is one of completeness.  Though often it seems that life is fragmented, God has vision of wholeness for us.  He sees the big picture and knows what we were created for.  When given the opportunity, God speaks into our lives, declaring wholeness and speaking Truth into our lives to guide us.<img alt="" width="307" height="205" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/bigstockphoto__Humility_Road_Sign_2198163.jpg" style="float: right; margin-left: 2px;" /> The prerequisite for wholeness may be humility.  As Psalm 51:17 says: “A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”  Or simple put, in the words of E :”Sovereign Lord, You alone know.” In Ezekiel there is a very peculiar passage (actually, there are several of them!). The one I was reading this morning is titled “The Valley of Dry Bones” and is found in chapter 37 of Ezekiel. I’m a literalist when it comes to scripture…I believe that what the bible says actually happened! Yes big fish, flooding of the whole earth, parting of the seas, one sandwich feeding 5000 people…etc. God’s Word ought to be taken for what it says, not dependant on mans feeble interpretation of it. So I’m reading this horror movie script, found in Ezekiel 37, of bones coming together and growing tendons and muscle and flesh; then they stand up alive as a massive army! Really? Did that really happen? Or is simply metaphorical for what God is speaking to the people of Israel through his servant and prophet Ezekiel? Either way, the Lord spoke two important messages to me this morning that I want to share with you out of this passage. The first is one of humility and recognition of who God is. God comes to Ezekiel and shows him, at great length, the massive valley full of bones. Then he poses this question to Ezekiel: “Do you think these bones can live?” Perhaps E is thinking, “Is this a trick question?” These bones are not only bones, they are dry, laying in a wasteland! Seriously? But E answers God this way: “Sovereign Lord, You alone know.” If there is one statement by which to live your life, it should be that! “Sovereign Lord, You alone know.” Don’t get this statement confused with the slang you often hear today: “God knows…” Oh, yes, He does know. But that sarcastic statement doesn’t reflect a heart of worship. I believe E is worshiping God and showing great honor to Him by that statement. God is Sovereign. He alone knows. I find security in this fact. I was demonstrating the importance of faith yesterday to my son Jonathan. I used the ‘trust fall’ as an example. He readily got that example, because he knows without a doubt I will catch him. I’ve done it a thousand times before, and I will catch Him again. That’s how my Heavenly Father is too. He has caught me time and time again. I read Ps. 139 and am given a sense of security knowing that God created my inmost being, and knows where I sit and where I lie…he knows my thoughts, my heart, and who I am from the inside out. I can trust Him. I’m okay not knowing the answers to life’s questions BECAUSE I trust God knows what’s up, and He’s got my back. So, I said two things didn’t I? Right around verse 14, God says this : “I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD.” E is suppose to prophesy to the God’s people that God will bring them back…God will revive them and put His spirit of life back into these ‘dead’ people who are in bondage of slavery. God says he will settle them back into their land…the land that was He had promised for them. The dead will live. The captives are set free. God’s faithfulness is revealed. This statement of the Lords, followed up by E’s statement of trust, completes the picture. I am reminded this morning that God’s vision for us is one of completeness. Though often it seems that life is fragmented, God... dead dry bones ezekiel humility "Stuff gettin' time!" http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=274476http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=274476 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT Black Friday = ‘Stuff’ gettin’ day!<img alt="" width="245" height="152" style="float: right;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/PacSun-black-friday-sale.jpg" /> It’s biggest shopping day of the year.  This morning, I heard some stats from this infamous day, 2011.  225 million people were out ‘getting some deals’!  The average person spent $400.  Good for the economy…but is it for the individual? My wife and I have felt a deep sense of conviction this year on what we give people.  We want to give people experiences…not just ‘stuff’.  It’s amazing how dissatisfied we get with ‘stuff’.  Having kids reminds me how short our attention span is with ‘stuff’.  Stuff breaks; stuff get’s old; stuff falls apart; stuff doesn’t satisfy because there is always a need for more.  More stuff.  Better stuff.  Nicer stuff.  We want what we don’t have; always grasping for what’s next. For me, the conviction has grown stronger since we have been pursuing adoption.  My eyes have been opened to the desperate needs across the world.  That one billion people are desperate for water right now.  That child sex trafficking has grown to an absurd business affecting 500 million children across the globe.  Children are slaves because of their position in life, vulnerable to the evil that is destroying their little spirits.  “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27) In my sermon yesterday, I talked about having a vision for your life.  Without vision, people perish according to Proverbs.  A big step in having a successful vision is feeling the need.  You don’t need to just recognize the need, but you need to feel it…or else you have a passionless pursuit of nothing.  I posed the question of ‘what makes you angry?’  What are the injustices of the world that get you passionate?  Those things I mentioned above get me angry.  Upset to the point that I desperately want to do something about them.  Is it wrong to give my children and close family gifts this Christmas?  Absolutely not.  We plan on being generous this year in sharing with our family.  But am I going to give ‘stuff’ for the sake of giving ‘stuff’?  No.  I have this dream of instead of spending money on cheap toys, or more ‘stuff’ for my kids; we save that money and take a trip as a family to visit one of our Compassion-sponsored children!  What an impact we could have on our family by making choices like these.  <img alt="" width="316" height="244" style="float: right;" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/black-friday-2.jpg" /> It’s the introspective questions and thoughts like these that lead me to believe Americans could make a significant difference globally when we get our eyes off of ourselves, and put James 1:27 into practice. Black Friday = ‘Stuff’ gettin’ day! It’s biggest shopping day of the year. This morning, I heard some stats from this infamous day, 2011. 225 million people were out ‘getting some deals’! The average person spent $400. Good for the economy…but is it for the individual? My wife and I have felt a deep sense of conviction this year on what we give people. We want to give people experiences…not just ‘stuff’. It’s amazing how dissatisfied we get with ‘stuff’. Having kids reminds me how short our attention span is with ‘stuff’. Stuff breaks; stuff get’s old; stuff falls apart; stuff doesn’t satisfy because there is always a need for more. More stuff. Better stuff. Nicer stuff. We want what we don’t have; always grasping for what’s next. For me, the conviction has grown stronger since we have been pursuing adoption. My eyes have been opened to the desperate needs across the world. That one billion people are desperate for water right now. That child sex trafficking has grown to an absurd business affecting 500 million children across the globe. Children are slaves because of their position in life, vulnerable to the evil that is destroying their little spirits. “ Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. ” (James 1:27) In my sermon yesterday, I talked about having a vision for your life. Without vision, people perish according to Proverbs. A big step in having a successful vision is feeling the need. You don’t need to just recognize the need, but you need to feel it…or else you have a passionless pursuit of nothing. I posed the question of ‘what makes you angry?’ What are the injustices of the world that get you passionate? Those things I mentioned above get me angry. Upset to the point that I desperately want to do something about them. Is it wrong to give my children and close family gifts this Christmas? Absolutely not. We plan on being generous this year in sharing with our family. But am I going to give ‘stuff’ for the sake of giving ‘stuff’? No. I have this dream of instead of spending money on cheap toys, or more ‘stuff’ for my kids; we save that money and take a trip as a family to visit one of our Compassion-sponsored children! What an impact we could have on our family by making choices like these. It’s the introspective questions and thoughts like these that lead me to believe Americans could make a significant difference globally when we get our eyes off of ourselves, and put James 1:27 into practice. black Friday spending debt generous giving religion orphans widows God A successful ministry http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=273266http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=273266 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/badgergame.jpg" style="vertical-align: top;" /> "Are you part of His House?” she asked as I was coming down the front steps of the KHouse after a fun night of fellowship and dinner with students in our Madison ministry.  It turns out Melissa was looking for the girl who invited her to one of our Bible studies three years ago.  It was through our hot dog outreach ministry at a Madison football game that Melissa first came in contact with His House.  She had no idea who Jesus was, nor was she seeking anything spiritual…she just wanted a hot dog! Melissa recounted to me that the next week she had come to our bible study, which led way for her to get involved in a church.  She accepted Christ as her Savior, and now was on fire for Jesus, and reaching out to her peers on the UW Madison campus! It was just a hot dog. But it was more than that!  A seed was planted that afternoon, in the midst of the hoopla of a Badgers football game.  1 Corinthians 3:7-8 says this: “Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.” Throughout the day yesterday, I was thinking about this verse, and the implications it has on me as a minister of the Gospel.  Often times, I want to see ‘success’ in the ministries I am involved in.  I have an idea of what success in ministry should be defined as.  Lots of people.  Numbers of programs.  Numbers of changed lives (that I can see!).  But MOST of the time, I don’t get to my version of success. It was just a hot dog. <img alt="" width="264" height="175" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/78057899.jpg%20v=1&c=EWSAsset&k=2&d=82EB172C4407816CB978F9518930B7DAD3FD1E9CB6527AB1993D85334BD39A79.jpg" style="float: right; margin-left: 2px;" />I’ve often thought of this outreach as being a waste of money and time.  We give free food to drunk students, who will have no clue who we are, nor the “meaningful” conversation I’m having with them while they stuff a hot dog in their mouth on their way to a football game!   Yet Melissa’s testimony brings it into clear focus.  If four years of giving out hot dogs resulted in ONE person coming to know Christ as her Savior and making an eternal difference in her life and the lives of those around her…it’s all worth it. As Paul writes, the one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose: to glorify God through obedience and trust.  God is the one who makes things grow…and thus ought to define success in ministry.  How do you define success?  This morning, let me encourage you to trust God with the results.  Be mindful that we are called to plant the seeds and to be faithful in watering those seeds.  Trust God to make happen what needs to happen in the lives around you. "Are you part of His House?” she asked as I was coming down the front steps of the KHouse after a fun night of fellowship and dinner with students in our Madison ministry. It turns out Melissa was looking for the girl who invited her to one of our Bible studies three years ago. It was through our hot dog outreach ministry at a Madison football game that Melissa first came in contact with His House. She had no idea who Jesus was, nor was she seeking anything spiritual…she just wanted a hot dog! Melissa recounted to me that the next week she had come to our bible study, which led way for her to get involved in a church. She accepted Christ as her Savior, and now was on fire for Jesus, and reaching out to her peers on the UW Madison campus! It was just a hot dog. But it was more than that! A seed was planted that afternoon, in the midst of the hoopla of a Badgers football game. 1 Corinthians 3:7-8 says this: “Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.” Throughout the day yesterday, I was thinking about this verse, and the implications it has on me as a minister of the Gospel. Often times, I want to see ‘success’ in the ministries I am involved in. I have an idea of what success in ministry should be defined as. Lots of people. Numbers of programs. Numbers of changed lives (that I can see!). But MOST of the time, I don’t get to my version of success. It was just a hot dog. I’ve often thought of this outreach as being a waste of money and time. We give free food to drunk students, who will have no clue who we are, nor the “meaningful” conversation I’m having with them while they stuff a hot dog in their mouth on their way to a football game! Yet Melissa’s testimony brings it into clear focus. If four years of giving out hot dogs resulted in ONE person coming to know Christ as her Savior and making an eternal difference in her life and the lives of those around her…it’s all worth it. As Paul writes, the one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose: to glorify God through obedience and trust. God is the one who makes things grow…and thus ought to define success in ministry. How do you define success? This morning, let me encourage you to trust God with the results. Be mindful that we are called to plant the seeds and to be faithful in watering those seeds. Trust God to make happen what needs to happen in the lives around you. Hot dog ministry success waters plants savior redeemer girl Evangelisim? Really? http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=273116http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=273116 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Clay-Matthews.jpg" style="width: 272px; height: 159px; float: right;" />It hit me like Clay Mathews pounded Ponder on Monday night football!  I was on my backside before I knew what was coming.  I was minding my own business, reading through the prophets in the Old Testament…not exactly a place you get a call to evangelism!  At first glance, the personal testimony of Ezekiel wouldn’t strike you as anything relevant for today.  The man lived in a different time, a much different place, and had a directive from God to punish himself for the sins of Israel (including lying on his side for 390 days and cooking his food over animal poop.) Ezekiel was a prophet of God.  He had a call on his life to communicate God’s word to God’s people.  The nation of Israel had done evil in the eyes of the Lord and He wanted Ezekiel to demonstrate to them what the effects of their sin was doing to Him.  But then I hit Ezekiel 3:18, and it says this “When I [the Lord] say to a wicked person, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood.” After you get up off your backside now (!), think about this in context to a follower of God, who has been given the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), and has received the Holy Spirit (John 14:26), and is equipped with the Bible to do “every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) It’s sobering, isn’t it?  A month ago, I finished reading Frances Chan’s latest book called Erasing Hell.  The premise of the book is how we, followers of Christ, have made every possible attempt to extricate anything about Hell out of our talk, our study, our promotion of the Gospel…etc.  We have hundreds of people that we know and love who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, yet we remain on the ‘spiritual peripheral’, not telling them that the Truth they need to hear.  We choose to ignore it and simply hope it will either go away, or our family and friends will simply figure it out on their own. But then we come across this verse above, and it begs this profound, and horrible (if you think about the consequences) question: “Would God hold me accountable for my friends and family’s lack of relationship with Him?”  As a follower of Christ, I have been equipped with something that is so precious and valuable; something that cannot compare with anything else in the world; and something that will save me from the crap if find myself in on a daily basis.  That’s an intimate, growing and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  In this relationship, I have hope. In this relationship, I have peace. In this relationship, I have security, that goes far beyond this world. In this relationship, I have everything.<img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/benchlady.jpg" style="float: right;" /> Why would I not share it with those I love, admire, and rub shoulders with on a daily basis? And if I don’t share, will God have words of Life for me on the day of judgment? Or words of death?  Something to ponder(!) on today, and pray about as you go through your day. It hit me like Clay Mathews pounded Ponder on Monday night football! I was on my backside before I knew what was coming. I was minding my own business, reading through the prophets in the Old Testament…not exactly a place you get a call to evangelism! At first glance, the personal testimony of Ezekiel wouldn’t strike you as anything relevant for today. The man lived in a different time, a much different place, and had a directive from God to punish himself for the sins of Israel (including lying on his side for 390 days and cooking his food over animal poop.) Ezekiel was a prophet of God. He had a call on his life to communicate God’s word to God’s people. The nation of Israel had done evil in the eyes of the Lord and He wanted Ezekiel to demonstrate to them what the effects of their sin was doing to Him. But then I hit Ezekiel 3:18, and it says this “When I [the Lord] say to a wicked person, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood.” After you get up off your backside now (!), think about this in context to a follower of God, who has been given the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), and has received the Holy Spirit (John 14:26), and is equipped with the Bible to do “every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) It’s sobering, isn’t it? A month ago, I finished reading Frances Chan’s latest book called Erasing Hell. The premise of the book is how we, followers of Christ, have made every possible attempt to extricate anything about Hell out of our talk, our study, our promotion of the Gospel…etc. We have hundreds of people that we know and love who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, yet we remain on the ‘spiritual peripheral’, not telling them that the Truth they need to hear. We choose to ignore it and simply hope it will either go away, or our family and friends will simply figure it out on their own. But then we come across this verse above, and it begs this profound, and horrible (if you think about the consequences) question: “Would God hold me accountable for my friends and family’s lack of relationship with Him?” As a follower of Christ, I have been equipped with something that is so precious and valuable; something that cannot compare with anything else in the world; and something that will save me from the crap if find myself in on a daily basis. That’s an intimate, growing and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. In this relationship, I have hope. In this relationship, I have peace. In this relationship, I have security, that goes far beyond this world. In this relationship, I have everything. Why would I not share it with those I love, admire, and rub shoulders with on a daily basis? And if I don’t share, will God have words of Life for me on the day of judgment? Or words of death? Something to ponder(!) on today, and pray about as you go through your day. Evangelism Clay Matthews Gospel Jesus accountable effort Ponder Embrace the Anchor http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271922http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271922 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/../Content/10712/1105821_f520.jpg" style="border:2px solid #000000;width: 188px; height: 283px; float: left; margin-right: 3px;" />"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (Hebrews 6:19) As the last half of Hebrews 6 points out, if you're identity is found in Christ, you have an anchor that is deep and strong...one that can pull you through any circumstance, tragedy, or hardship in life. This week has been overwhelming to me on many accounts.  I've found myself being short with people I love and people I respect...and I'm not sure what's totally going on.  I do know that God is on the move, and our staff have a very important retreat day coming on Friday.  Satan is fighting hard against us...and I'm feeling it this week. Yet the verse above brings me great delight and reminds me of where my hope is anchored.  The simple truth is that God loved me enough to send His Son to die on the cross and take away my filth, so that I may have an intimate relationship that goes beyond this physical world and into eternity.  There is nothing...nothing...more amazing than this.  And it gives me confidence in approaching the Throne of Grace, knowing my heavenly Father loves me, hears me, and responds to my needs...and even the desires of my heart. Today, do you have an anchor that is deep, secure and firm?  If not, God is ready to welcome you back. If you are on a journey with Him...embrace the anchor for your soul.  Rejoice, that though you may suffer for a little while, you have something that far outweighs the sufferings and hardships of this world - a loving relationship that will last for all eternity. "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (Hebrews 6:19) As the last half of Hebrews 6 points out, if you're identity is found in Christ, you have an anchor that is deep and strong...one that can pull you through any circumstance, tragedy, or hardship in life. This week has been overwhelming to me on many accounts. I've found myself being short with people I love and people I respect...and I'm not sure what's totally going on. I do know that God is on the move, and our staff have a very important retreat day coming on Friday. Satan is fighting hard against us...and I'm feeling it this week. Yet the verse above brings me great delight and reminds me of where my hope is anchored. The simple truth is that God loved me enough to send His Son to die on the cross and take away my filth, so that I may have an intimate relationship that goes beyond this physical world and into eternity. There is nothing...nothing...more amazing than this. And it gives me confidence in approaching the Throne of Grace, knowing my heavenly Father loves me, hears me, and responds to my needs...and even the desires of my heart. Today, do you have an anchor that is deep, secure and firm? If not, God is ready to welcome you back. If you are on a journey with Him...embrace the anchor for your soul. Rejoice, that though you may suffer for a little while, you have something that far outweighs the sufferings and hardships of this world - a loving relationship that will last for all eternity. Anchor firm soul gospel jesus cross death victory sin Guiltfree Rest! http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271712http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271712 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:00:00 GMT Rest.  <img alt="" width="324" height="217" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Prayer.jpg" style="float: right;" /> This four-letter word has been vacant in my vocabulary since I can remember!  Since I was twelve years old, I have carried enough responsibility to warrant this inner drive to succeed and do things with excellence, that I have abandoned what it means to rest. I am grateful to have a work ethic of excellence and a drive to succeed...for those are two attributes that have helped to bring me where I am today. Yet something is missing.  Rest.  I've known this is something that is good; something of value.  But in my quiet time this morning, I came across Hebrews 4:9-11.  Here is what it says: "There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience." Did you catch that last line...it included the word "disobedience."  You mean I'm disobeying God when I choose not to rest?  I thought I was doing God a great service by pushing myself in DOING so much for Him: sacrificing significant sleep; squeezing as many hours into my workday with ministry things; working on my laptop during the Packers game; and filling my calendar with as many one-on-one meetings as possible to disciple and mentor those around me.  But God says I'm disobeying Him? This week, one of my good pastor friends is on a weeklong sabbatical.  I'm jealous...a little.  It's been four years since I took a week away, just me and the Lord.  Wow.  Early on, I had committed to take a week away every two years...but now it's been four years.  It is so difficult to ‘find the time’ when you have a young family, and so much going on in the demands of life and ministry. Rest.  We need it.  God commands it.  We're disobeying Him if we don’t take it. <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/6646-rest-area.png" style="width: 265px; height: 141px; float: left;" />I’ve found that I absolutely need to schedule my time of rest.  If I don’t schedule it, my day fills, my week fills up, and my month flies by without any sort of Sabbath rest. Schedule some rest time for this week.  Take a day this month to enter into rest with the Lord.  You’re soul may be nourished in ways you haven’t experienced in years.  Jesus says “If you love me, you’ll keep my commands.”  Love Christ today by obeying Him, and taking time to rest…without guilt, but complete abandonment to Him. Rest. This four-letter word has been vacant in my vocabulary since I can remember! Since I was twelve years old, I have carried enough responsibility to warrant this inner drive to succeed and do things with excellence, that I have abandoned what it means to rest. I am grateful to have a work ethic of excellence and a drive to succeed...for those are two attributes that have helped to bring me where I am today. Yet something is missing. Rest. I've known this is something that is good; something of value. But in my quiet time this morning, I came across Hebrews 4:9-11. Here is what it says: "There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience." Did you catch that last line...it included the word "disobedience." You mean I'm disobeying God when I choose not to rest? I thought I was doing God a great service by pushing myself in DOING so much for Him: sacrificing significant sleep; squeezing as many hours into my workday with ministry things; working on my laptop during the Packers game; and filling my calendar with as many one-on-one meetings as possible to disciple and mentor those around me. But God says I'm disobeying Him? This week, one of my good pastor friends is on a weeklong sabbatical. I'm jealous...a little. It's been four years since I took a week away, just me and the Lord. Wow. Early on, I had committed to take a week away every two years...but now it's been four years. It is so difficult to ‘find the time’ when you have a young family, and so much going on in the demands of life and ministry. Rest. We need it. God commands it. We're disobeying Him if we don’t take it. I’ve found that I absolutely need to schedule my time of rest. If I don’t schedule it, my day fills, my week fills up, and my month flies by without any sort of Sabbath rest. Schedule some rest time for this week. Take a day this month to enter into rest with the Lord. You’re soul may be nourished in ways you haven’t experienced in years. Jesus says “If you love me, you’ll keep my commands.” Love Christ today by obeying Him, and taking time to rest…without guilt, but complete abandonment to Him. rest obedience trust reliance on God Worn out http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271425http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271425 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMT In my devo this morning, I came across this passage out of Hebrews 1:10-13 : “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth,    and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain;    they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe;    like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same,    and your years will never end.” <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/jeans.jpg" style="float: right; margin-left: 3px;" />For whatever reason, these past couple weeks I've been popping through the knees in several pair of my jeans.  As frustrating as that is, I know that I've had them for along time; so it's to be expected that it's time to replace them!  Nothing lasts forever...we all know this.  Yet as I reflect on the verses above, why do we try to build our little kingdoms here on earth, knowing that this place will not last forever?  We spend thousands of hours getting a college degree, which will then enable us to get a job (any job really!).  Then we'll spend thousands upon thousands of more hours trying to achieve the highest level within our field of expertise...only to loose it all.  In the end, our mini-kingdoms will wear out like old blue jeans.  Yet scripture says over and over that God never changes.  Although He has been around for eternity(!), He does not wear out, nor will He be changed.  God is forever...he does not lose strength, nor power, nor wisdom, nor compassion.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8). I love architecture.  Old buildings fascinate me.  How they made things hundreds of years ago, with true craftsmanship, is so different than buildings of today.  In America, we have no clue what historical buildings are.  As a nation, we are just over a few hundred years old.  My wife and I went to Spain for part of our honeymoon, and the buildings there are old!  We were walking the streets of Madrid and observing some buildings that had been built in the 12th century!  What amazing architecture.  Yet even these places will wear out eventually. What do you put your trust in?  Recently the US Congress reaffirmed our nation's motto of "In God We Trust."  I know <a href="http://www.nationalmemo.com/article/obama-slams-congress-frivolous-votes" target="_blank">this isn't 'producing jobs' Mr. Obama</a>, but if we truly mean this motto, then we will have peace.  If this motto is something more than what we put on a coin, then we have a solid foundation.  If we live out what we're pledging, then we are anchored to the ONE thing that is secure.  And not just security for today...but for all of eternity. Today, set your blue jeans aside.  Put your hope and trust in The One who created the Heavens and the earth, and who will remain the same for all of eternity. In my devo this morning, I came across this passage out of Hebrews 1:10-13 : “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” For whatever reason, these past couple weeks I've been popping through the knees in several pair of my jeans. As frustrating as that is, I know that I've had them for along time; so it's to be expected that it's time to replace them! Nothing lasts forever...we all know this. Yet as I reflect on the verses above, why do we try to build our little kingdoms here on earth, knowing that this place will not last forever? We spend thousands of hours getting a college degree, which will then enable us to get a job (any job really!). Then we'll spend thousands upon thousands of more hours trying to achieve the highest level within our field of expertise...only to loose it all. In the end, our mini-kingdoms will wear out like old blue jeans. Yet scripture says over and over that God never changes. Although He has been around for eternity(!), He does not wear out, nor will He be changed. God is forever...he does not lose strength, nor power, nor wisdom, nor compassion. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8). I love architecture. Old buildings fascinate me. How they made things hundreds of years ago, with true craftsmanship, is so different than buildings of today. In America, we have no clue what historical buildings are. As a nation, we are just over a few hundred years old. My wife and I went to Spain for part of our honeymoon, and the buildings there are old! We were walking the streets of Madrid and observing some buildings that had been built in the 12th century! What amazing architecture. Yet even these places will wear out eventually. What do you put your trust in? Recently the US Congress reaffirmed our nation's motto of "In God We Trust." I know this isn't 'producing jobs' Mr. Obama , but if we truly mean this motto, then we will have peace. If this motto is something more than what we put on a coin, then we have a solid foundation. If we live out what we're pledging, then we are anchored to the ONE thing that is secure. And not just security for today...but for all of eternity. Today, set your blue jeans aside. Put your hope and trust in The One who created the Heavens and the earth, and who will remain the same for all of eternity. Change Jesus Christ Hope Security Forever Same Long lasting Relationship Four http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271353http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=271353 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:00:00 GMT <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Evolution4glyph.png" style="vertical-align: top;" /> </div> <h3>Four.  </h3> Four has the potential for greatness.  After all, the Packers had a number Four that was pretty impressive in his time!  There are four seasons in a year; four cardinal directions on a compass and four Gospels in the New Testament.  The cross has four points. But I’m still trying to wrap my mind around having four kids.  Yes, my wife is pregnant for a fourth time, and is due June 1st!  As cool as it is to think there will be another ‘mini-me’ running crazy in our house (!), I’m not sure that four is all that good, is it? I mean if you yell out “Four” on the golf course, that means that DANGER is on the way!  Four kids mean the parents are now doubly outnumbered.  And the term “Four letter word” is used for a generic swear word.  So four can’t be all good, eh?! Joking aside, I’m tremendously blessed to think that God chose our family for this child…He knows what’s best!  Obviously, we were preparing for God to expand our family through adoption; so we were ‘expectant’.  But God had something different for us.   It took a few weeks for Lori and me to adjust our mindset and our emotions; to let go of the adoption and embrace this new life that is growing.  Especially considering that we have no idea how this happened (I mean, we know how these things happen, but we’re confused on when this happened).   This confirms in our mind, that God is in this and He really wants us to have this child, so we will submit to His will.  Four has the potential for greatness…because God is in it. “For you created my inmost being; <img alt="" width="320" height="241" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/Babies-In-Womb.jpg" style="float: right;" />    you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;    your works are wonderful,    I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you    when I was made in the secret place,    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body;    all the days ordained for me were written in your book    before one of them came to be.” -Psalm 139:13-16 Four. Four has the potential for greatness. After all, the Packers had a number Four that was pretty impressive in his time! There are four seasons in a year; four cardinal directions on a compass and four Gospels in the New Testament. The cross has four points. But I’m still trying to wrap my mind around having four kids. Yes, my wife is pregnant for a fourth time, and is due June 1 st ! As cool as it is to think there will be another ‘mini-me’ running crazy in our house (!), I’m not sure that four is all that good, is it? I mean if you yell out “Four” on the golf course, that means that DANGER is on the way! Four kids mean the parents are now doubly outnumbered. And the term “Four letter word” is used for a generic swear word. So four can’t be all good, eh?! Joking aside, I’m tremendously blessed to think that God chose our family for this child…He knows what’s best! Obviously, we were preparing for God to expand our family through adoption; so we were ‘expectant’. But God had something different for us. It took a few weeks for Lori and me to adjust our mindset and our emotions; to let go of the adoption and embrace this new life that is growing. Especially considering that we have no idea how this happened (I mean, we know how these things happen, but we’re confused on when this happened). This confirms in our mind, that God is in this and He really wants us to have this child, so we will submit to His will. Four has the potential for greatness…because God is in it. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” -Psalm 139:13-16 Four children baby newness life pregnant family surrender God The Way of Jesus on display... http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=269254http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=269254 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:00:00 GMT Last night I finished reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell.  Yes, the book is over a decade old, and came out long before Bell turned Christian Universalist on us!  Although reading this book now, in light of his exclaimed theology on heaven and hell, I pick up hints of it throughout this book written a decade ago. But towards the end of the book, he challenges the church to step up and be the church.  In it he writes: "It's when the church gives itself away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return, that the way of Jesus is most vividly put on display." <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/180Logo_OrangeSm.png" style="float: right; margin-left: 5px;" />I am blessed to be part of a community who does this on a daily basis!  One-Eighty Church is made up of families and individuals who passionately seek the Lord, serving Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.  This body serves the Lord, not for recognition, but because they love Him and desire to serve out of the goodness in their hearts.  We had a 'Volunteer Recognition' Sunday last year, and about 90% of the church was recognized for serving as a volunteer for one area or another! Not only this, but One-Eighty Church was begun as a missional church: a church with a mission to reach the campus community in Oshkosh.  We have GO events, where we get out and serve the community in various ways.  Leading Bingo nights at a local assisted living facility, handing our balloons at community parades, giving away hot chocolate at community Christmas celebrations, and participating in various on-campus activities. To me, this is the expression of the above quote.  The church giving itself away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return.  If you don't belong to a community of believers who vividly display the way of Jesus, then check out <a href="http://www.one-eightychurch.org" target="_blank">One-Eighty Church</a>!  There is something spiritually fulfilling in belonging to a body of believers who are on this journey, not to exalt themselves or promote their name and organization, but rather who greatly desire to promote the Name and Person of Jesus Christ. Last night I finished reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell. Yes, the book is over a decade old, and came out long before Bell turned Christian Universalist on us! Although reading this book now, in light of his exclaimed theology on heaven and hell, I pick up hints of it throughout this book written a decade ago. But towards the end of the book, he challenges the church to step up and be the church. In it he writes: "It's when the church gives itself away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return, that the way of Jesus is most vividly put on display." I am blessed to be part of a community who does this on a daily basis! One-Eighty Church is made up of families and individuals who passionately seek the Lord, serving Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. This body serves the Lord, not for recognition, but because they love Him and desire to serve out of the goodness in their hearts. We had a 'Volunteer Recognition' Sunday last year, and about 90% of the church was recognized for serving as a volunteer for one area or another! Not only this, but One-Eighty Church was begun as a missional church: a church with a mission to reach the campus community in Oshkosh. We have GO events, where we get out and serve the community in various ways. Leading Bingo nights at a local assisted living facility, handing our balloons at community parades, giving away hot chocolate at community Christmas celebrations, and participating in various on-campus activities. To me, this is the expression of the above quote. The church giving itself away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return. If you don't belong to a community of believers who vividly display the way of Jesus, then check out One-Eighty Church ! There is something spiritually fulfilling in belonging to a body of believers who are on this journey, not to exalt themselves or promote their name and organization, but rather who greatly desire to promote the Name and Person of Jesus Christ. One-Eighty Church radical serving abandonment community generous giving living Hell in a handbasket. http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=269213http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=269213 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:00:00 GMT <img alt="" width="259" height="259" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/to_hell_in_a_handbasket_mousepad-p144376458873523008trak_400.jpg" style="float: right;" />"This country is going to hell in hand basket...and it's going there quick" said my banker friend as I sat in his office this morning.  Normally an upbeat guy, who is the epitome of an optimistic thinker, my friend Paul is always ready to give a smile, warm handshake, and speak word of encouragement when we meet.  Not today.  He was upset about a number of things having to do with the government, economy, and taxes.  As a fellow believer in the faith, I was able to listen to him and try to encourage him as best as I could.  Mostly we agreed on the woes that faces this nation, and the uncertainty of the future. After leaving that conversation, I spent some time in the Word and came across this verse found in 1 Timothy 6:1 "All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered."  Many Christians today are not happy with the leadership of this country right now.  Many people in general are not happy with the way the country is going.   I don't know if you've noticed, but the world today seems the most dissatisfied as it ever has!  Uprisings, revolts, picketing, riots, recalls, etc. plague our thoughts, actions and time.  No one seems satisfied with their their leadership.  Yet the Apostle Paul tells those in the church to respect their masters...not just for their master's sake, but for God's sake.  When Christ came, He turned the world upside down in thought and action.  If someone asks you to walk one mile, then walk with them two.  If someone slaps you on the one cheek, turn the other to them as well.  Humility brings great honor.  Love your enemies.  Pray for those that curse you.  WHY?  So that God's name will receive glory and honor, AND all will know the teaching of Christ is pure and true. Recently I've been reading a magazine from the Voice of the Martyrs.  Powerful stories of men who have more courage than I.  Men who serve horrible and insane masters, because they are true to the cause of Christ.  Men who have lost their wives and children and some who lost their own lives...all for the honor and glory to go to the Name of the One True God.  And we complain about our leaders.  Threaten to recall them.  Can I share with you a very convicting passage if you struggle with this idea? Romans 13:1-2 "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." Powerful stuff.  God put Barack Obama into office.  God put Scott Walker into office.  Do you believe this?  The Bible testifies to it!  Is God in control of all things?  Absolutely!  Then why do we complain?  Why do we engage in disparaging talk about how awful our leaders are.  When we do this, we are dishonoring the name of God.  We are running the teaching of Christianity into the ground. 1 Timothy continues by saying this in verses 6-7 :"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it."  Contentment is such a hard virtue to come by!  The only way we will be content is when we give up on trying to create the 'ideal world' on this earth.  As Paul says, we brought nothing here and we will die to take nothing with us.  Why get so worked up over something so temporary?  When God says to set your minds, not on earthly things, but on heavenly things! <img alt="" width="239" height="102" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/tapedmouth.JPG" style="float: left;" />Today, strive for contentment!  Don't engage in disparaging talk about our leadership! Don't dishonor the name of God Don't badmouth the teachings in which you subscribe. Be quick to listen, and slow to speak, slow to become angry. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart...for He will  make your paths straight." "This country is going to hell in hand basket...and it's going there quick" said my banker friend as I sat in his office this morning. Normally an upbeat guy, who is the epitome of an optimistic thinker, my friend Paul is always ready to give a smile, warm handshake, and speak word of encouragement when we meet. Not today. He was upset about a number of things having to do with the government, economy, and taxes. As a fellow believer in the faith, I was able to listen to him and try to encourage him as best as I could. Mostly we agreed on the woes that faces this nation, and the uncertainty of the future. After leaving that conversation, I spent some time in the Word and came across this verse found in 1 Timothy 6:1 "All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered." Many Christians today are not happy with the leadership of this country right now. Many people in general are not happy with the way the country is going. I don't know if you've noticed, but the world today seems the most dissatisfied as it ever has! Uprisings, revolts, picketing, riots, recalls, etc. plague our thoughts, actions and time. No one seems satisfied with their their leadership. Yet the Apostle Paul tells those in the church to respect their masters...not just for their master's sake, but for God's sake. When Christ came, He turned the world upside down in thought and action. If someone asks you to walk one mile, then walk with them two. If someone slaps you on the one cheek, turn the other to them as well. Humility brings great honor. Love your enemies. Pray for those that curse you. WHY? So that God's name will receive glory and honor, AND all will know the teaching of Christ is pure and true. Recently I've been reading a magazine from the Voice of the Martyrs. Powerful stories of men who have more courage than I. Men who serve horrible and insane masters, because they are true to the cause of Christ. Men who have lost their wives and children and some who lost their own lives...all for the honor and glory to go to the Name of the One True God. And we complain about our leaders. Threaten to recall them. Can I share with you a very convicting passage if you struggle with this idea? Romans 13:1-2 "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." Powerful stuff. God put Barack Obama into office. God put Scott Walker into office. Do you believe this? The Bible testifies to it! Is God in control of all things? Absolutely! Then why do we complain? Why do we engage in disparaging talk about how awful our leaders are. When we do this, we are dishonoring the name of God. We are running the teaching of Christianity into the ground. 1 Timothy continues by saying this in verses 6-7 : "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." Contentment is such a hard virtue to come by! The only way we will be content is when we give up on trying to create the 'ideal world' on this earth. As Paul says, we brought nothing here and we will die to take nothing with us. Why get so worked up over something so temporary? When God says... Government officials leaders slander Gods word trust teaching honor Nourished http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=268954http://www.uw4god.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10712&entry_id=268954 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.uw4god.org/Content/10712/HeartMindBodySoul_Color_White-300x117.gif" style="float: right;" />I love reading through the books of 1 and 2 Timothy!  They are the Apostle Paul's instruction books for young preachers, particularly his 'son in the faith' Timothy.  Considering myself a young preacher (yes, i did say young!), I gain valuable encouragement and insight from these books.  When times of doubt and question come in my mind, I turn to these books.   This morning I picked up in 1 Timothy 4.  In the first part of the chapter, Paul instructs Timothy to be on the watch for false teachers and to warn his followers of their danger and lies they spread.  Paul says to combat those teachings with the truth of God's word and His purpose for all things.  Paul then says if Timothy does these things he will be "nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed."  This sent me chasing the answer in my life of "Am I being nourished on the Truths of the faith and good teaching that's been given to me?" It is a verse later where Paul tells Timothy "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." (1 Tim. 4:8)  Paul tells Timothy "Train yourself to be godly."  Righteousness can only come from the Lord, but godliness is a virtue that you and I need to strive to reach, training our minds and bodies to act in accordance to God's standard set before us in Scripture.  My heart breaks for the frail woman sitting outside the coffee shop window.  She's in her mid-forties, but her physical appearance is poor.  She is on her fourth straight cigarette, her hand, near violent shaking now, as she raises her coffee cup to take a drink.  Consuming caffeine and nicotine for breakfast, her malnutrition body longs for something more.  What kind of journey has she been on?  Why does she deprive herself of nutritious goodness, and replace it with what will destroy the body?  Why do we do the same?  Maybe you don't smoke, but do you curse? Lie? Cheat? Steal? Lust?  As James 2:10 quickly points out, whoever breaks one command from the Lord, brings judgement on himself from the whole law. What are you filling yourself with this morning?  It matters.  The world offers a multitude of options...but they leave you empty, longing for more; even feeling guilty for not making the best choice from the beginning.  The woman outside is obviously hurting, carrying a pain that she is trying to numb, or dull by worldly efforts.  It's not working for her.  The pain in her eyes grows with each intense drag on the cigarette. What you fill yourself with matters.  A little further in the chapter, Paul reassures Timothy: "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12).  Let me suggest this is impossible...unless you are nourished by good teaching and Godly wisdom that comes from the Word of the Lord.  On your own efforts, you will fail.  But when you are nourished with Scripture and good teaching, you can then be equipped for a life of godliness.  But it only comes, when you are connected to the vine. What are you filling yourself with this morning?  May I suggest you spend time in God's Word, prayer, and seeking Godly counsel?  In those things you may be nourished, allowing you to be equipped to do every good work, in which God has given to you today. It matters.  Be wise in your choices today! I love reading through the books of 1 and 2 Timothy! They are the Apostle Paul's instruction books for young preachers, particularly his 'son in the faith' Timothy. Considering myself a young preacher (yes, i did say young!), I gain valuable encouragement and insight from these books. When times of doubt and question come in my mind, I turn to these books. This morning I picked up in 1 Timothy 4. In the first part of the chapter, Paul instructs Timothy to be on the watch for false teachers and to warn his followers of their danger and lies they spread. Paul says to combat those teachings with the truth of God's word and His purpose for all things. Paul then says if Timothy does these things he will be "nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed." This sent me chasing the answer in my life of "Am I being nourished on the Truths of the faith and good teaching that's been given to me?" It is a verse later where Paul tells Timothy "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." (1 Tim. 4:8) Paul tells Timothy "Train yourself to be godly." Righteousness can only come from the Lord, but godliness is a virtue that you and I need to strive to reach, training our minds and bodies to act in accordance to God's standard set before us in Scripture. My heart breaks for the frail woman sitting outside the coffee shop window. She's in her mid-forties, but her physical appearance is poor. She is on her fourth straight cigarette, her hand, near violent shaking now, as she raises her coffee cup to take a drink. Consuming caffeine and nicotine for breakfast, her malnutrition body longs for something more. What kind of journey has she been on? Why does she deprive herself of nutritious goodness, and replace it with what will destroy the body? Why do we do the same? Maybe you don't smoke, but do you curse? Lie? Cheat? Steal? Lust? As James 2:10 quickly points out, whoever breaks one command from the Lord, brings judgement on himself from the whole law. What are you filling yourself with this morning? It matters. The world offers a multitude of options...but they leave you empty, longing for more; even feeling guilty for not making the best choice from the beginning. The woman outside is obviously hurting, carrying a pain that she is trying to numb, or dull by worldly efforts. It's not working for her. The pain in her eyes grows with each intense drag on the cigarette. What you fill yourself with matters. A little further in the chapter, Paul reassures Timothy: "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12). Let me suggest this is impossible...unless you are nourished by good teaching and Godly wisdom that comes from the Word of the Lord. On your own efforts, you will fail. But when you are nourished with Scripture and good teaching, you can then be equipped for a life of godliness. But it only comes, when you are connected to the vine. What are you filling yourself with this morning? May I suggest you spend time in God's Word, prayer, and seeking Godly counsel? In those things you may be nourished, allowing you to be equipped to do every good work, in which God has given to you today. It matters. Be wise in your choices today! Nourish God's Word smoking drag healthy