Lucky or Good

I heard a story the other day about a golfer named Gary Player. I may have a few of the details messed up but the point is still good. The story goes like this. Gary Player is a professional golfer who was smaller than the other elite golfers but he was able to compete and win against the other players. One day he hit a hole in one and the reporter said to Gary, " boy that was a lucky shot." Gary said back to him, "It seems like the harder I practice the luckier I get."

Gary was able to beat his competition because he worked hard and tirelessly practiced to become his best. He was an excellent golfer. People who are excellent tend to be in the right place at the right time, they tend to see opportunities, they make the contacts and so on.

Is it lucky or good? I think it is good effort, being your best, living with excellence and doing it all to glorify God. People who live like this will gravitate to the top.

Colossians 3:23 "whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men." (NKJV)

The verse says to do what you are going to do, heartily. In other words, whatever it is you are going to do, as long as it glorifies God then do it with excellence. Put your heart into it.

If you and I will do this then we might hear people say, "You're really lucky, good things just seem to come your way." Inside, you will know it wasn't luck.

God Heals

Thank you to all that have prayed for me this week.

James 5:16-17 (New Living Translation)
The earnest (or serious) prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results.

God strengthened me to be able to preach today as well as hold a baptism service at Wrightsville Beach. Can you beleive that on Oct. 21 the water was still warm? I love Wilmington, NC!

Are you going through something that you would like prayer. Post your prayer request on this bolg this week and I and others will pray for you. God bless.

Sickness Stinks

At church I have been preaching about a Greek word "Soozoo." Soozoo means salvation from sin, sickness, destruction and bondages.

Matthew 1:21She will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save (soozoo) his people from their sins."

What a wonderful God we serve. All right, I have been preaching that as Christians we have been given so much, including supernatural healing of our bodies. Everyone has been excited as we have been praying for people to be healed but wait… this week I get sick! Sickness stinks! I haven’t been sick for over 10 or 15 years and now I am laid out on a couch for four days. I went to the doctor and he told me it wasn’t anything major. I began reminding God of my sermon and asking for Him to heal me. Well four days later I’m still sick. So what’s the deal?

1. First of all, we live in a fallen world and in a fallen world it includes sickness.
2. The fact is, I am getting better and as the doctor said, “No major stuff is wrong with me.” That’s a God thing!
3. God is still God regardless of how He chooses to heal me. I will continually believe that He is the one that gives me health.
4. The enemy wants to discourage me from a timely message. It won’t work. I will press on in faith!

Do you feel like your prayers are not getting answered? Here is a key worth remembering. Don’t give up! Persevere, press on, and keep the faith.

In closing, I would appreciate your prayers tonight. My healing is on the way.

Good Advice

This is some good advice from Will Rogers.

1. Never slap a man who’s chewing tobacco.
2. Never kick a cow chip on a hot day.
3. There are 2 theories to arguing with a woman…neither works.
4. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
5. Always drink upstream from the herd.
6. If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.
7. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it and put it back in your pocket.
8. Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.
9. If you’re ridin’ ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it’s still there.
10. Lettin’ the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier’n puttin’ it back.
11. AND FINALLY – After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him….The moral: When you’re full of bull, keep your mouth shut!

It's Not About Me

It’s not about me.

I realize this phrase has become popular due to the bestselling book, “Purpose driven life” by Rick Warren, but I felt like it is worth repeating in context of being a Senior Pastor of a healthy growing church. Any person with a heartbeat would feel a sense of pull towards self promotion in the church setting, especially as a Senior Pastor. The enemy would love to get me sidetracked with a prideful attitude. Also, the enemy would love to get people to believe that the leader is a superstar or a type of rock star. As I read 2 Kings 5: 8-12, I was reminded of the phrase, “It’s not about me.”

Elisha, a true prophet, had a ministry that lasted over 50 years, did many miracles and impacted four nations with his ministry yet maintained integrity. It was still not all about him, he shared ministry with others.

I love the story in 2 Kings. A man named Naaman who was sick with leprosy came to Elisha for healing. Elisha sent his servant to do the ministry. Unfortunately for Naaman, he was looking for a man with a rock star attitude who would never miss a chance to be the miracle worker. But not Elisha, he killed the idolization of the minister by sending his servant.

Elisha is a good example of giving away ministry to others and not letting your ministry become all about you. The bottom line… it is all about God!

Waiting on God's Wisdom

In a fast passed world, waiting isn’t our strongest trait. But I’m learning. At our church or any church for that matter, decisions and choices come by the minute, some small and some more significant. One of the more significant decisions for us is going to be relocating our church to a new building. The good news is we are outgrowing our current facility. My first response is to fly right into action, after all the sign of a good leader is the “get ‘r done” attitude. Here is what God led me to today.

Acts 1:4 "Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you what he promised. NLT

I felt God speaking to me concerning our church. He said, “Don’t leave until I send you.” This verse was speaking about the promise of the Father, The Holy Spirit. But I felt like it was speaking to me about waiting until I had His wisdom for the next step in His plan for us. The disciples knew how to wait… they gathered together and prayed.

My prayer, “God I will wait for your wisdom.”

Wash Up

Recently, I visited the men's room at Oh Charley's restaurant and noticed a man who used the facilities but walked out the door without washing his hands. There really isn't anything spiritual here today but I would like to say, "Come on man, wash up." In some tests, it has been proven that there are more than 2 million bacteria per square inch in a restroom. I hope this man wasn't eating finger licking good chicken wings for dinner.

Holy Discontent- by Bill Hybels

I just completed a book by Bill Hybels, “Holy Discontent: Fueling the fire that ignites personal vision.” One of the main points is that each person will recognize a need in this world and will become discontent to sit by without action. Eventually, a person will become passionate about solving a problem and they will go to work to be the answer. At our church, we have many people who are doing just this but today I was reminded of a married couple while serving at our outreach ministry, “Angel Food.”

Several months back this same couple approached me about helping people get food that were financially unable to purchase it or at least, good foods like meat and vegetables. They not only saw a need but they had a solution and then to boot they wanted to lead the ministry. As watched dozens and dozens of boxes of food go out the door, I felt a surge of optimism in my heart. I was excited to see people sacrificially giving of themselves to help others.

A few things I learned from this…

1. People like this are contagious. Not only were they helping but there were many other volunteers pitching in as well. People love to associate with people who are passionate about helping others.
2. Serving in a place that stokes your fires only makes you burn brighter. This couple had started the day at 5am and did not finish until after 2pm. That makes for a long day! But they were smiling. They were physically tired but their hearts were full.
3. As a pastor, this last observation may be the best. I realized when people are serving in the ministry that they passionately care about then I don’t have to motivate them to do the job well. I didn’t have to tell them to be sure and get up early enough to be ready. I didn’t have to ask them to be prepared with necessary supplies. I actually did not have to do anything but thank them. Why? They wanted good results as much or more than I did, therefore they were self motivated. It is ever tiresome to be obligated to hold a leaders hand to do accomplish their work. But when people serve the need that God has placed in their heart then watch out... these people will have significance in our churches and cities.

God bless you Gary and Mindy McSmith!!!

Now what about you? Read the story of Nehemiah. He couldn’t stand by without putting his hands to the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He was discontent to sit by without action. You will find your life having greater meaning when you are giving of yourself to a God-given purpose.

How much is 4.3%?

Did You Know . . . The difference between winning and winning big can be very small. Take the PGA Tour for example. In 2004, Phil Mickelson won $5.7 million in prize money and had $20 million in endorsements. His per round stroke average was 69.2. Contrast that with Cliff Kresge, an unknown, unheralded pro who won $260,000 and had a per round stroke average of 72.2. Phil Mickelson shot only threee strokes per round better than Kresge yet Mickelson made 100 times more money. Mickelson's two stroke margin translates into just a 4.3% advantage but in the money column it translates into a nearly 10,000% advantage. Just think, one missed putt or one wayward tee shot every six holes made the difference between multi-million dollar riches and marginal obscurity.

In business this is important. A poor first impression, one neglected phone call or one day that you acted with a bad attitude to a customer. These small mistakes can lead to significant losses over time. But improvement can come just as easy. Add 4.3 more clients, increase sales or decrease expenses by 4.3% or motivate your staff to improve productivity by 4.3%.

Now what about your Spiritual life? Can you improve your spiritual life by investing just a small amount of additional time in prayer, study, and worship? Of course it is a heart issue, but I’m confident that most of us could give a little more time in prayer, study and worship. The Bible says this will build you up.

Acts 20:32 "I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up."

Join me in making a small adjustment in our schedule for more time with God and allow God to build you up for your day.

How much is 4.3%? It is just enough to help build you up and prepare you for your day.

Reality Check

Usually the desire to escape reality is not a good sign. Often when we face tremendous pressures from work, stress from personal financial difficulties, or our relationship struggles mount up, we choose to escape rather than focus on the solution. Your escape can be anything from excessive TV watching, renting movies, playing video games, walking around the mall, alcohol and just staying in bed. These activities will not help you out of your problems. The best thing to do is take a note from Nehemiah. He faced the difficulties, rather than escaping the reality. He fasted, prayed and began making the necessary plans to rebuild the city walls that protected the city of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah 1:3-4
"Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been burned." When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven.
NLT

As you read on in the book of Nehemiah you will read about the tenacity he exhibited to rebuild the walls.

In an environment where the economy is sluggish many people find themselves under great pressure and turn to escapism rather than staying the course. You may need a reality check. My encouragement for you is to face the difficulties, pray and fast for God’s wisdom, then go to work in fixing the problems. If you continue to avoid and dodge the real issues in life then you will wind up in deeper problems. So getin2life!

Happy Birthday

My son just celebrated his 14th birthday. Happy Birthday son. I feel much older! My son never asks for much but he did let me know of one gift he would like to have. As a dad, I was determined to get him this gift. It wasn’t a great price but even if it were I would try my best to get it for him. (Please don’t write me about telling my children no and all that jazz.) The fact is, I really enjoy blessing my kids. When they ask for stuff, I seriously consider it. With this thought in mind, read this verse.

Luke 11:9-139 "And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. 10 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks. 11 "You fathers — if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead? 12 Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not! 13 If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?"

The most excellent gift we can ask God for is the Holy Spirit. Why?

1. It is the Spirit who gives life. (John 6:33)
2. The Holy Spirit is our counselor/helper. (John 14:16,26)
3. You will receive His power for spreading the good news. (Acts 1:8)
4. Reveals the deep things of God (1 Cor. 2: 10-12)
5. The giver of Spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12: 4-27)
6. Develops within the believer great character. (Gal. 5: 22-23)
7. Frees us from bondages (2 Cor. 3:17)

If you are not a believer then ask God to send His Holy Spirit to give you a new life (See #1). If you are a believer than ask the Holy Spirit to come and refresh you, guide you, empower you, reveal to you, give you special Spiritual gifts, develop character and free you. God will do it! Why don’t you getin2life today!

Church Picnic

Enjoy the pictures of Life Community Church picnic. I estimate we had between 150 - 200 people out last Sunday. The softball game was a blast. Click here for pictures ... http://picasaweb.google.com/Grdnmoma/SummerPicnic

If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God's people. Part 4

The Bible teaches about Spiritual warfare.



Ephesians 6:10-12 Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. 12 For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.



A few weeks back at Life Community Church, I taught on spiritual warfare by looking at how the enemy is attacking God’s people. My sermon title was, “If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God’s people.” I listed several ways I would attack God’s people. I had several people request copies of the ways, so I thought I would simply put them on my blog and hopefully get feedback.



The fourth way I would attack God's people.

4. If I were the devil, I would get bright, young people to go off to college and learn humanistic views that appear to discredit the Bible. I would convince them that right and wrong are only wrong if you think it is wrong. I would make sex, alcohol and drugs very accessible, especially now that they are out from under a protective covering of family. Then I would convince them that church doesn’t relate to them anymore. And If I were the devil, I would know that when I have conquered this generation then I will soon be in control of business, schools, government, civic leadership positions and even more scary church leadership. If I were the devil I would be very proud of what I have accomplished so far in this area.

If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God's people. Part 3

The Bible teaches about Spiritual warfare.

Ephesians 6:10-12 Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. 12 For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.

This week at Life Community Church, I taught on spiritual warfare by looking at how the enemy is attacking God’s people. My sermon title was, “If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God’s people.” I listed seven ways I would attack God’s people. I had several people request copies of the seven ways, so I thought I would simply put them on my blog and hopefully get feedback.

The third way I would attack God's people.

3. If I were the devil I would bring offense and hurt from church leaders and cause people to lose the value and their respect for the local church. I would tell people that they can be a thriving Christian without meeting together with other believers. I would show them many outstanding Christian books that they could read; many great sermons online and maybe introduce them to a few other people who are sick of organized church. In a nutshell, if I were the devil, I would spread a new spirit of independence, which is a nice word for rebellion, against God’s bride, the local church.

If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God's people. Part 2

The Bible teaches about Spiritual warfare.

Ephesians 6:10-12 Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. 12 For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.

This week at Life Community Church, I taught on spiritual warfare by looking at how the enemy is attacking God’s people. My sermon title was, “If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God’s people.” I listed seven ways I would attack God’s people. I had several people request copies of the seven ways, so I thought I would simply put them on my blog and hopefully get feedback.

The second way I would attack God's people.

2. If I were the devil I would get people buy high speed internet and multichannel cable packages with movie channels and then I would open the flood gates of hell into the homes of God’s people. I would convince parents to let their kids watch shows that open the doors to witchcraft, violence, and homosexuality and every other perversion. I would lure men into viewing things that should be sacred ground between a husband and wife. I would hook people on shows that make Christianity appear outdated and not relevant. In a nutshell, if I were the devil, I would get access to people’s homes and minds through media and begin to train people to think the way I want them to think.

If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God's people.

The Bible teaches about Spiritual warfare.

Ephesians 6:10-12
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. 12 For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.

This week at Life Community Church, I taught on spiritual warfare by looking at how the enemy is attacking God’s people. My sermon title was, “If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God’s people.” I listed seven ways I would attack God’s people. I had several people request copies of the seven ways, so I thought I would simply put them on my blog and hopefully get feedback.

If I were the devil, this is how I would attack God’s people.

1. If I were the devil I would get people to buy real big houses, new cars and anything else that would tie up their money. I would use debt to trap people into slavery. I would use discontentment to become a major drive in people’s lives. I would convince people that the church wants my money and tithing was not biblical. In a nutshell, if I were the devil, I would hold people hostage to their money causing them to be unable to pursue their God given dreams and withhold money from being used to help spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Come back to the site later to get point 2.

I nearly missed a God moment

Our family made plans this morning to meet for dinner at Outback Steakhouse at 5:15. I certainly didn’t want to be late to meet everyone, so I watched the clock to be sure I left work on time. I grabbed my laptop and headed out the door but just as I stepped out I heard a gentleman that I had never met, speaking about some pain in his lower leg. As I briskly walked by I said, “I hope you get better quick,” tucked my head down and kept on walking. But just at the same moment I heard God speak to me, “Stop and pray for him.” I didn’t stop! I would be late. I made it to my car and felt conviction for missing the prompting of God. I tried to justify my actions with a lame excuse of not being late, but…, well you know how that goes. Am I alone, or have others of you heard God speak in that small, quiet voice but you didn’t respond? Those promptings are easy to run right by.

Revelation 2:7 "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

The promptings are the Holy Spirit attempting to lead us. I’m sure that I miss the Holy Spirit speaking to me because I’m just not in tune with Him. Also, I’m sure that as I become more obedient to His promptings then God will continue to speak more and more and into greater and more influential opportunities. The key is to begin at the very next prompting. I encourage you to ask God to prompt you tomorrow and then stay in tune; you will probably get an opportunity.

Good news!!! I got out of my car, went back in to see that gentleman and asked him if I could pray for him. He gladly accepted my offer. I prayed a prayer filled with faith and asked God to heal his leg. I don’t know if his healing came immediately but I’m sure the man was encouraged. But for me, my faith was elevated to a new level. Obedience will always lift us up. I became excited about asking God to prompt me again tomorrow. Who knows what God may have in store!!!

We Are Making a Difference

Serving others is a natural result of being a Christian. Today, at Life Community Church we served others by providing food and groceries at greatly discounted prices. I want to thank all of the people who came out to help with set up, distributing the food and cleaning up, especially thank you to Gary and Mindy McSmith for heading up this ministry. Check out the pictures that were taken by clicking on the link at the bottom of this blog. Also, you will see in the pictures a growing pile of backpacks. Our church is in the middle of a backpack drive to help provide school supplies to a middle school in Wilmington. Our goal is 400 backpacks. The pile that you will see is about 200 backpacks.

Go to our church website to see more information about our Angel Food Ministry and our backpack drive.

Serving others is at the heart of our Christian walk and together we can make a difference.
http://picasaweb.google.com/Grdnmoma/AngelFoodNetwork

Keeping My Joy

I love to hang out with friends on a beautiful summer evening. Last night we had some friends over for dinner and we laughed and talked all evening. I went to bed with a smile and an overall sense of happiness from spending time with these friends. But without a fair warning, this morning arrived with stress that quickly robbed my fun. We encountered some problems at our business that caused me to greatly stress. I know we should count it all joy when we fall into various trials, but today I think the enemy came to steal my joy. He will not get it but he is trying.

John 10:10 “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (NKJV)

As I solve the business problems this morning, I’m left with a choice. Will I focus on what the enemy wants to take from me or will or focus on what Jesus wants to give to me?

Here is my prayer and if you are dealing with an attack from the enemy then pray with me.

“Father, in the name of Jesus, I come boldly to Your throne of grace and present my situation to you. I ask for your strength and wisdom for direction to make wise choices in order to solve the problems. Father, You say that whatever I bind on earth is bound in heaven, and whatever I loose on earth is loosed in heaven. Therefore, I bind the works of the enemy and all of his plans to steal and destroy your purposes in me today. Thank you, Father that Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. And for me, I receive peace and joy because I am a child of God.”

If you prayed this prayer today, then I am in agreement with you that you can live in joy today. God is good!!!

A Key to a Successful Life

Recently, I became put out with myself. I had slowly gained a few pounds a year until finally it dawned on me that my clothes didn’t fit, I was uncomfortable, and didn’t sleep well. Over the past 10 years I have gained over 25 pounds that were now driving me crazy. I have lost a few pounds only to gain them back. I actually lost over 15 pounds during my 21 day fast but months later, hello, they’re back. My problem was simple. I have been lacking the discipline and self-control to make a lasting difference in my life. I began my journey to becoming healthier about three weeks ago. I decided not to go on a binge diet but to begin exercising self-control over the foods that are unhealthy. I cut out soft drinks, junk foods and began eating low carb. meals. As of this morning, I have lost 10 pounds. Although I am pleased to have lost the weight there is something that I am even more pleased with. I am learning to exercise self-control. This is a character trait that must be developed in us in order to live successful lives.

1 Peter 1:13 “Think clearly and exercise self-control.” (NLT)

Lack of self discipline or self-control will result in mediocrity. Some of these common examples are the causes for lackluster living.

· I just can’t find the time to read my Bible.
· I’m too tired to play with my kids.
· I don’t enjoy reading books.
· I spend all the money I make. (no savings, no investing, impulse buying)
· I eat too much.
· I waist a lot of time surfing the internet, watching TV, playing video games, etc.

What do you want out of your life? Mediocrity, average, middle of the road, vanilla or excellence, success, purpose, and health.

The choice is mine and yours. I encourage you to a look at your life. Where do you lack the discipline to move forward and be excellent? Maybe now is the time for you to getin2life! This could be your season to get things in order, live with excellence and enjoy the fruits of a life well lived.

God bless you.

We Have Limited Vision

Wilmington has traffic! I was stuck in traffic right behind a large 18 wheeler. I couldn't see what was holding up the traffic because I couldn't see around this huge truck. I quickly became irritated that I couldn't see why we weren't moving. I thought if I could at least see the problem up ahead of me, I would at least have more patience. But I couldn't see. I had limited vision of the situation.

Eccl 3:11
...people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. (NLT)

Do you ask the question, “Why?”
Why am I going through this difficult situation?
I think this verse helps us see what we can’t see. We have limited vision of the situation. God has a plan for everything under the sun. When you can’t figure out what God is up too; don’t become discouraged. For whatever reason, God feels like this situation is going to bring about something good for you because he sees the whole picture not just the present situations.

Yard Sale

Tomorrow morning we are embarking on a yard sale. It’s time to get rid of our stuff. Hopefully someone will think our stuff is the stuff they want. The beauty of the yard sale is much greater than the thrill of making a few dollars. The real beauty is the fact that we are de-cluttering our space. God has been speaking to us about getting our house in order. Getting rid of stuff fits right in line with this.

Let’s get practical. What’s in it for us? What is the benefit from getting organized and getting everything in order?

First, peace.

1 Corinthians 14:33 “God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” NLT

Getting our house in order is one of the steps to gaining peace in our lives. Personally, I think peace is one of the greatest prized possessions that I can have. Obviously, there isn’t going to be any peace without a relationship with God but my next step is to get my life in order. Try this for yourself. Go organize something like your desk or clean out a closet or even just one drawer in your room. I bet you will instantly feel a sense of peace.

Ask God what needs to be brought in order in your life. I bet He’ll point out something for you. I’m off to rest, yard sales begin early.

Part 4: The Tide Comes In!

Last night I had an opportunity to go to Wrightsville Beach with my family. Some friends and I were playing bocce ball in the beautiful sand. While I was there I stopped and reflected again on the effects of tide. The tides come in and go out having an effect on the beach. On the positive side, when the tide comes in it replenishes the beach with sand, new shells, and all kinds of living things. Without the tides coming in the beach would eventually lose its life and dry up into a hard surface. But God has commanded the waters to return to the beach on a consistent regimen.

I know of many people who are going through a dry spell in their life. I have spoken to people who are struggling with sickness, issues with their children, business struggles and other related stresses. Have you wondered when will God bring the tide in on your life and bring new life to your situation?
I wish I could promise you that today is the day but I can’t, but there will be a day.

Matt 24:13 “But those who endure to the end will be saved.” NLT

There is a guaranteed day that the dry places in your life will be refreshed. God is faithful.

I know in the end, God will save us but my faith is not lacking that a season of refreshing and restoration is coming for us even now.

You should read all of Joel chapter 2, at verse 19 it says that after a time of fasting and prayer God will reply.

Joel 2:19
He will reply, "Look! I am sending you grain and wine and olive oil, enough to satisfy your needs.
NLT

I believe it! Just as God has commanded the tides to come in to refresh the beaches, He is sending you your answer and it will be enough to satisfy your needs.

Getting Your Life in Order

This weekend Harriet and I embarked on a major do-it-yourself house improvement project. We began the enormous task of cleaning out our attic. You may be thinking, what’s so big about that? Well If you could have seen how many boxes were packed in there, you would understand.

At the beginning of the year the Lord impressed upon us to get our house and life in order. I began looking at the areas of my life that required attention such as organizing my personal record system for important documents, organizing my bill paying, organizing my garage, attic and closets and on and on. I knew these were areas that could use some attention but why was God getting involved in this area of my life? I’m sure there are other areas that seem weightier that He could work on, but right now He wants me to get my life in order.

1 Corinthians 14:40
Let all things be done decently and in order.
NKJV

This verse was written to the local church concerning order in worship but I don’t think it would be hard to build a case on the idea that God would have us to live our lives in an orderly, organized manner.

Curiously, has God been speaking to others about getting your life in order? If so, I would like to hear your thoughts on why you think God may be speaking this word to the body of Christ.

Baptism Service

Last night we held our church baptism service on the beautiful shores of Wrightsville Beach. I think that of all the Christian activities that we do, witnessing a baptism is my favorite. I love to see people make a public profession of their new life as a believer.

Luke 3:3
John went from place to place on both sides of the Jordan River, preaching that people should be baptized to show that they had turned from their sins and turned to God to be forgiven.
NLT

Holding the service at the beach provides a stage for the world to see. I noticed many people who were not part of our church standing and watching and many began asking questions after the service. I think the world is still interested in Jesus. When we live out our walk with the Lord in front of the world in humility, people will stop and take notice.

You don’t have to get all wet to be a great witness. Ask God to baptize you with His power and start living in a way that others might stop and ask about your enthusiasm for God.

Part 3: The Tide is Turning

Back from vacation… I look forward to writing again.

Part 3: The Tide is Turning

There are a few things man will never be able change. One of these being the tides that come in and go out. Yes, we may change the landscapes and put up reefs but the tides will always continue to roll in and out based on God’s command. I know in my life, I have tried to hurry God into changing my situations. I have tried begging, pleading, and even bargaining with God but I did not have success. There are some times in my life that God’s timing simply isn’t my timing. Tides move on God’s timing and the situations and events also move on God’s timing. Are you in a situation that you expected a breakthrough to come quicker? Most of us have been there or will be there again. I have some good news about God’s timing. God is never too late!

In Luke 8: 40, there is a story of a man named Jairus whose daughter was on her deathbed. He came to Jesus and begged Him to come to his home and heal his daughter. The Bible says, as Jesus was on his way to Jairus’ home, he became surrounded by people seeking help and healing. While Jesus was helping others, tragedy had struck Jarius’ daughter before He could get to his home. All of the family perceived that Jesus was too late because she appeared to be dead. But it is never too late with God. Jesus told them she wasn’t dead, just sleeping. Jesus commanded her to arise and He breathed new life into her again.

Do you feel like it is too late for the situation to turn around in your life? Do feel like you are just about dead? Are you crushed under the pressures of your situation? Do not give up. God is on the way. His timing may seem to be late but it is not. Jesus told the family to not be afraid and believe! It’s time for you to put down your worrying and believe.

The word that God has been giving me is that the tides are turning. I think what God is saying is that the issues of pain are nearly over. This is God’s timing to turn things around. Don’t give up in these last hours. Stay strong and believe! I believe the timing is coming for God to breathe new life into your situation. I believe it. Do you?

The Tide is Turning: Part 2

In Wilmington, NC our downtown area is located along the Cape Fear River which is a significant river. The city has put in a nice walking path along the river where people stroll along looking at shops and the many boats that dock. On more than one occasion, I have noticed that the river appears to have come to a stop. It normally is steadily flowing along but at times it looks like the water has stopped flowing. The reason for this is that the tide of the ocean is coming in and the when the ocean tides pushes up the river it looks like the river comes to a stop.

Many times in our life we find ourselves in a season that it appears we are unable to connect with God. Sometimes the difficult situations in our life intensify and we continue to call out to God but we hear, feel and experience nothing. It is as if the water has stopped moving. Has God abandoned us? Is God not concerned about my needs? Will He ever deliver us? Unfortunately many people give up at this moment. They doubt that God is working in their life and they loose their grip on faith.The most heartbreaking thing is that God was actually turning the tide around in their life. They couldn't feel it or see it but God was definitely moving, but because they couldn't see it they gave up.

Galatians 6:9
Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
NLT

Are you growing tired? Don’t give up. You may not be able to see what God is doing and it may even feel like God has forgotten you but He hasn’t. Stay strong, keep praying, and remain faithful! Getin2life with a passion and you will see that God is turning the tide around in your life.

The Tide is Turning

This week I went to the beach and noticed the tide had turned and was coming back in. This morning I felt like God was speaking to me about tides and I wanted share some of these thoughts.

Part 1: When the tide goes out it takes with it debris or trash.

If you feel like the tide is out in your life, meaning you are walking through a challenging situation then gaining an understanding that God is at work in this situation may bring you hope.

John 15:3
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.

God will use the situations in our life to prune or wash away the trash in our lives. His purpose isn’t to hurt you but change you from the inside out, which will result in a better you or as in the verse above says, he prunes so you will produce more fruit.

Embrace the season and allow God to let the tide roll out in your life because He is at work in your life.

Don't Act Like a Spoiled Child.

What is your reaction in a situation that doesn’t go the way you want it to go? Life is filled with ups and downs, great moments and not so great moments. Even spiritually we can find ourselves in a dry place or even questioning if God will ever deliver us from a difficult problem. How we react in these moments reflects our faith. Can you still trust God when He appears to not rescue us at the moment that we want? As you probably well know God’s timing is not always our timing. I read this scripture and it shed some perspective on disappointments. I thought this might help some people.

1 Kings 21:1-4
King Ahab had a palace in Jezreel, and near the palace was a vineyard owned by a man named Naboth. 2 One day Ahab said to Naboth, "Since your vineyard is so convenient to the palace, I would like to buy it to use as a vegetable garden. I will give you a better vineyard in exchange, or if you prefer, I will pay you for it."
3 But Naboth replied, "The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance that was passed down by my ancestors." 4 So Ahab went home angry and sullen because of Naboth's answer. The king went to bed with his face to the wall and refused to eat!

King Ahab had everything at his disposal but acted like a spoiled child when he didn’t get what he wanted. Verse 4 says he, King Ahab went to bed with his face to the wall and refused to eat. Man, this King focused only on what he didn’t have and forgot all that he did have.

If you are struggling through a situation that you thought God should have answered by now, don’t be like King Ahab and act like a spoiled child. King Ahab refused to eat. Sometimes we do the same thing when we get down… We quit reading our Word or skip church, stop giving our tithes and so on. Basically we are starving ourselves spiritually.

Determine to make today a great day regardless of the situations. Trust God! Get back into your Word, go to Church and worship with a grateful heart for all that God has done in your life. Focus on the good things in your life. Smile and get-back-in2life. King Ahab sulked. What will you do?

God bless your journey.

A New Level Of Faith

I met a young man recently who was raising support for himself in order to go into full time ministry. I left the conversation greatly encouraged from the level of faith he was walking in. He knew God had called him, now he was stepping out into unchartered waters.

In Matthew 8: 26, Jesus asked the disciples a great question that needs to be asked to all of us at different times. He asked, "Why are you afraid?" Then Jesus answered the question on why they were afraid by stating to the disciples, "You have so little faith."

I think there is a stirring from God for us to live at a new level of faith. God is asking us to step out or step up. It is time for many to move beyond casual Christianity and give yourself over completely to His will. Those of you that know me, know that I'm not talking about spooky and kooky living but I am talking about people laying down bad habits, evil attitudes, grudges and anything that compromises your full out devotion to God. It's time to really getin2life! The God life. If you are reading this then possibly God intended for you to stop right now and ask Him to completely fill you with His love and then challenge yourself to fully live for him. So what are you afraid of? Are afraid to give God everything. Don't be afraid, live by faith. Let me know if you are being called at a new level of faith.

Slow Down!

This week, our family took a few days off for a family vacation. I was forced into limited access to all of my gadgets. Getting online was hit and miss without my normal wireless router, my cell phone only worked if I was standing in the back bedroom of the house where we were staying and the TV remote was not working well. Truthfully, I did not go on the trip with a need for the gadgets but I realized after about 2 days how much quieter my life became. Life slowed down. My wife and children and family were the center of each day.

In Matthew 8:23, it tells the story about Jesus when he had fallen asleep in a boat when a large storm had hit. The disciples were basically freaking out and thought they were about to die. They woke up Jesus and and He spoke to the wind and the sea and the Bible says, "there was a great calm." Basically, the disciples turned over their situation to God and He brought a great calm.

It took a few days of being unhooked from my normal routine for me feel the calm. I am thankful to have had the days away. Sometimes in our hectic paced lives we need to experience this great calm. Take one day, Sunday and let life slow down. Give everything over to the Lord and rest. Rest is good! Getin2life by refreshing it with a much needed day off.

Keep On Praying

On Monday’s I enjoy making my request known to God. This helps me to have an excitement about the weekdays ahead. My faith is active with an expectation that something, somehow will be answered, hopefully this week.

Matthew 7:7-8 "Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks.

Sometimes when I read this it seems too easy. Does God really mean that all I have to do is ask? That’s the way I understand it. I know somebody would like to teach us that we need to make this harder but I like to keep it simple. I dare you. Sit down and make a list of the things you would like to ask God for. Keep it real; don’t ask for a new yacht but start asking.

I’m on vacation this week at Sunset Beach, but I’m still praying. Fortunately prayer doesn’t have to be too hard. I can do it while vacationing. God is good.

Honoring the Grahams

Ruth Bell Graham, wife of evangelist Billy Graham, died Thursday at her home at Little Piney Cove in Montreat, North Carolina. She was 87.

The Grahams are special people. Rev. Graham and his wife will be remembered as legends and could easily be included in Hebrews 11. Hebrews 11 is a whole chapter dedicated to showing examples of men and women of great faith.

I personally hold a great appreciation for their ministry. I include them both as partners in their ministry. He may have been upfront as the spokesman but she brought great strength to the ministry with him. My appreciation for them began 29 years ago in the Asheville Civic Center. I was 11 years old when I went to hear Rev. Graham speak and then at the end of his message I walked from one end of the auditorium to the front of the stage where I said, “Yes” to becoming a Christian. That day God grabbed my heart. Thank you Lord for using the Grahams to reach me with the good news of salvation.

It is good to honor the people who God has used to touch your life.
Ruth Bell Graham, a life well lived. She knew how to getin2life.

Never Give Up!

Good morning bloggers. I went to our web site to see who was fasting today because I wanted to be sure and pray for them. Biblical fasting always inflicts a death blow to the devil but he never goes down without a fight. In Matthew 4 the Bible says that Jesus was fasting for 40 days and nights and during that time the enemy came to tempt Jesus. Jesus resisted the devil and verse 11 says, “The devil went away.”

Have you noticed every time you take a serious step forward with God that the devil tries to come against you? He tried three different temptations on Jesus before he “went away.” One of the things that gets many Christians off track is they give up; the problems begin to add up, the worries become greater, and they give up. No, they don’t walk away from God but they give up on going further with God. They get complacent. Christianity becomes less important and church becomes a Sunday event or a show that they attend.

It is time for us to rise up with a spiritual backbone! Resist the temptation to become shallow. I’m calling you out of the sin of shallow into a life worth giving your all for. Getin2life today. Live for God with all of your heart. Leave me a comment that says you are part of the strong and courageous. I know there are many!

By the way fasters… keep on pressing forward the enemy can’t stand it when God’s people act like Jesus. He will go away. He’s defeated.

A Love That Fades

I remember my first car that I purchased. It was the fall of 1988. I bought a brand new Nissan Pathfinder. I remember spending weeks and weeks walking around the dealership waiting to find just the right car. Finally, I found it, filled out the paperwork and drove it home. I was very proud of my new car. I washed it regularly, showed everyone and always looked for new gadgets to add to it like my ski rack. After about a year had passed an interesting phenomenon occurs. It is a condition of the human heart. It begins to loose it's original joy for the thing that once you couldn't quit thinking about. This condition of the human heart effects us all. Without regular, purposeful efforts, we all will begin to loose the joy in the thing we once loved. It's one thing to begin to loose the shine of a car but what about your marriage or a close friend. More friends are lost due to neglect than anything.

I was reading in Revelation 2 today. Verse 4, written to the church at Ephesus ,"I have this complaint against you. You don't love me or each other as you did at first! Look how far you have fallen from your first love! NLT

This church was suffering from the same problem that we are still suffer from, "a love that fades." I don't want to fall into the same problem they did. How are you concerning your original love for God? Are you progressing in passion or have you fallen prey to this common heart condition? One of the best ways to stir up your passion for God is to 1) pray for revival and 2) reach out to someone who is not currently walking with God.

Let's getin2 life! I mean give God your all.

See you soon.

Great Expectations

How do you face Monday? Do you dread the week ahead or do you live with a great expectation of enjoying a great week?

1 Peter 1: 3 “All honor to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is by his boundless mercy that God has given us the privilege of being born again. Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead.” (New Living Translation)
What are you expecting from your week? More troubles, more pain, and more pressures or are you expecting five days that God can use to bring blessings into your life.

Here are few things I’m expecting this week.
1. Rest
2. Productivity
3. Five more days of the privilege to pray for revival in Wilmington and our great nation

I am pondering this thought. What could God do through me if I will be completely yielded to your His will and “promptings” this week? I expect that this is going to be a great week! God bless your week.

Keep on Praying

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-17 "Always be joyful. Never stop praying."
Do you find joy in praying? I talk with people all of the time who continue to put their prayer life on the shelf. Like a good book they want to read but never find the time to read it. Today, pray. Stop from reading this and pray.

Dear Lord, in the name of Jesus I pray for a renewed passion to pray to fall on our church and others. Currently, our church is linked up with thousands around America to pray for our great nation. Go to this link and learn more about this movement. www.thecall.com If you want to join with our church as we collectively fast and pray for 40 days, go to our web site www.lifecommunitywilmington.com and click on the picture about prayer to sign up for your day to fast and pray. I'm convinced that our prayers are raising the water levels of revival and one day they will pour out on our cities and nation.

More Talk than Action

Yesterday, I was so sure that I was going to go out and be light to someone in a dark world. I don't think I did so well. No amazing stories to tell. I will not be down over this, today is a new day, a new day to getin2life. God help me to be about your business today.

Recently, I made a new friend who is a volunteer staff at IHOP, not pancakes, but International House of Prayer. Since my conversation with he and his wife, I have been stirred to pray with more passion. Interestingly, we really never talked directly about prayer but I believe he and his wife are specially used by God in prayer and just by being with them they rubbed off on me. I received a portion of their unique calling. Their ministry is focused on prayer- a lot of prayer, in fact 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, non stop. Visit their prayer ministry live at www.theprayerroom.tv I hope to have them come back to our church and impart their giftings to us. We all could use a dose of passion for prayer. Our nation, our city, our churches, our families, our children need much prayer. Lord stir us to pray. God I pray for revival in our land!!

40 Days of Prayer and Fasting

Currently our church is collectively praying and fasting for 40 days with a focus on repenting and prayer for revival. This morning I am reading from 2 Peter 3: 9, " He (God) does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent." Lord, my prayer for us as a church that we would burn for a love for the lost and be driven to our knees to pray and break off the blinders that blind a lost world. Here I am God send me!!! Can you imagine what it would be like if you could have one good, meaningful conversation with someone today? Pray for God to place people in your path. Tommorrow, I hope to have a new report of someone God used me to touch with the good news of Jesus Christ. Get ready, God is moving.

Small Changes

Small changes can lead to significant results. Simple things can have dramatic results. Most people know that there are areas in our life that need to change but we refuse to do it. As a result, we can look back at our life over the last several years and not see any real progress in life. God is calling us to change. We are saved by God's grace and we are transformed by participating with God in a change process. Hebrews 6: 1 -3 tells us we need to quit going over basic teachings and go on with more mature things. In other words, it's time for us to move forward in our lives. The best place to start with changing something that needs to be changed is to start somewhere with something. Do something a little different today and then continue small changes everyday. Before you know it you will be able to look back and see real progress.