“…but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.” (Mark 4:19)
Do we care too much about this life? What I mean by that is this; do we put too much emphasis on that which is temporary and non-eternal?
Colossians 3 tells us, “Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
When we get so wrapped up with the worries of this life and allow them to distract us from what matters eternally the Bible says in Mark 4 that it “chokes out the word, making it unfruitful.”
So what have you allowed in your life that is choking the word out of your life making you unfruitful for the kingdom? What is it that is choking out your time in prayer to God and the reading of His word? Too busy with the day to day things in life? Too busy worrying about things that are out of your control? Too busy worried about making a living and not living a life God has called you to? Too concerned about “keeping up with the Jones’? Too busy trying to attain the “honor of man?”
The Bible says in Matthew 6:25, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life; what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?”
You see God is more concerned about our character than our comfort. He’s more concerned about holiness than happiness.
May we strip ourselves of all worry, anxiety, fear, or anything else that we would allow to distract us from the calling Christ has placed on our lives; to know Him!
Have a great week!
Monday, March 19, 2007
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Good News to the poor...
We are about an hour or so away from bringing the gospel to downtown Monroe under the covering of Ricky Nolan of Hope Street Ministries.
As I pray and meditate on God's word I am so glad about something; I'm so glad that Jesus didn't mind "getting His hands dirty." You say, "Beck, What do you mean by that?" Jesus spent most of His ministry reaching out to "dirty" people; Prostitutes, Thieves, Liars, and folks that lived at the "bottom of the barrel." I myself am personally thankful that he reached down in the "dirt" and picked me up, cleaned me with His blood, and made me new!
You see we will take care of some of the poor's practical needs today by feeding them a warm meal but that in itself isn't the answer. Remember, Jesus said be as shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves (we do need to get them there some how). More than that we pray they will drink from His spirit and feed on his word!
In Acts 3 Peter and John were going to pray when they came across a crippled beggar wanting money.
"When he saw Peter and John about to enter he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk."
You see the man thought money would be his answer as do many people in the world do today. Some people may think another "hit" is the answer. Some think a man or a woman would do the trick. Maybe they think a good paying job, with benefits, and a great retirement is the answer to their life but there is only one answer and His name is Jesus!
You see we need to give people what they need not what they want!
May the Lord bring those we come across into the kingdom today!
As I pray and meditate on God's word I am so glad about something; I'm so glad that Jesus didn't mind "getting His hands dirty." You say, "Beck, What do you mean by that?" Jesus spent most of His ministry reaching out to "dirty" people; Prostitutes, Thieves, Liars, and folks that lived at the "bottom of the barrel." I myself am personally thankful that he reached down in the "dirt" and picked me up, cleaned me with His blood, and made me new!
You see we will take care of some of the poor's practical needs today by feeding them a warm meal but that in itself isn't the answer. Remember, Jesus said be as shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves (we do need to get them there some how). More than that we pray they will drink from His spirit and feed on his word!
In Acts 3 Peter and John were going to pray when they came across a crippled beggar wanting money.
"When he saw Peter and John about to enter he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk."
You see the man thought money would be his answer as do many people in the world do today. Some people may think another "hit" is the answer. Some think a man or a woman would do the trick. Maybe they think a good paying job, with benefits, and a great retirement is the answer to their life but there is only one answer and His name is Jesus!
You see we need to give people what they need not what they want!
May the Lord bring those we come across into the kingdom today!
Friday, March 16, 2007
Why must hard times come?
“This brings you great joy, although you may have to suffer for a short time in various trials. Such trials show the proven character of your faith, which is much more valuable than gold – gold that is tested by fire, even though it is passing away– and will bring praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (I. Peter 1:6-7)
During my time with Jesus today there are a few points the Holy Ghost impressed upon my heart and I would like to share them with you.
Why must we experience hard times?
1) Hard times must come that we may be driven to our knees to draw near to Him. (Remember, that is our purpose in being here; to know him!)
-The Book of Colossians says, “For we were created by him and for him.”
2) To test our faith.
-It's easy to say we have faith on the mountain, it's another thing to say we have faith in the valley.
-Such trials show the proven character of your faith..." (I. Peter 1:6)
2) To humble ourselves keeping a spirit of humility before him.
-"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." (1 Peter 5:6)
3) That we may bear fruit.
-"It is said that in some countries trees will grow, but will bear no fruit because there is no winter there."John Bunyan (1628-1688)
-Following winter seasons here in the south, you always know “spring” is coming!
4) Hard times reveal our true character.
-“Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45)
-What is truly in us WILL be revealed upon hard times.
5) God will give us a message in the midst of our adversity.
-Jesus and John the Baptist both were led by the Spirit of God to spend time in the desert. If you read there stories both came out of the desert in the power of the Spirit preaching a message that God had given them.
-What has God given you to speak?
May you be victorious in all your trials and in the testing of your faith be proven faithful!!!
During my time with Jesus today there are a few points the Holy Ghost impressed upon my heart and I would like to share them with you.
Why must we experience hard times?
1) Hard times must come that we may be driven to our knees to draw near to Him. (Remember, that is our purpose in being here; to know him!)
-The Book of Colossians says, “For we were created by him and for him.”
2) To test our faith.
-It's easy to say we have faith on the mountain, it's another thing to say we have faith in the valley.
-Such trials show the proven character of your faith..." (I. Peter 1:6)
2) To humble ourselves keeping a spirit of humility before him.
-"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." (1 Peter 5:6)
3) That we may bear fruit.
-"It is said that in some countries trees will grow, but will bear no fruit because there is no winter there."John Bunyan (1628-1688)
-Following winter seasons here in the south, you always know “spring” is coming!
4) Hard times reveal our true character.
-“Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45)
-What is truly in us WILL be revealed upon hard times.
5) God will give us a message in the midst of our adversity.
-Jesus and John the Baptist both were led by the Spirit of God to spend time in the desert. If you read there stories both came out of the desert in the power of the Spirit preaching a message that God had given them.
-What has God given you to speak?
May you be victorious in all your trials and in the testing of your faith be proven faithful!!!
The Priority of Prayer
“The next morning Jesus awoke long before daybreak and went out alone into the wilderness to pray.” (Mark 1:35)
We live in a society that is so busy, so fast-paced and hard to keep up with that sometimes we neglect the things that are truly important. We cram our schedules with events, programs, eating schedules, and everything else that can distract us from what truly matters if we are not careful. There may have not been a more busy man that walked the face of the earth than Jesus Christ himself. The last time I checked neither I nor you had people chasing you around to get saved, healed, delivered, and set free but Jesus Christ and his disciples at times, didn’t have the time to even eat!
One thing he never got “out of whack” is His prayer life. You see He realized his first “ministry” was unto God not unto man! He realized that the greatest commandment was vertical and not horizontal! He realized that He was to first, “Love the Lord with all his heart, soul and mind, and secondly to love his neighbor as himself" but he realized his first ministry was unto God before He could minister unto man!
Is prayer a priority in your life? It was such a priority in Jesus’ life that he had to get up before daylight at times! He had to get “lonely in prayer.”
"Afterward he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. (Matthew 14:23) There were times when He literally had to withdraw himself from others and go “hide” somewhere in prayer. “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.” (Luke 5:16)
The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:33 to “Seek first the kingdom of God…” It is basically saying that we need to make God’s kingdom first priority in our lives over everything! God first, everything else second!
I believe one of the “lost arts” in the church of America today is prayer! We revolve our programs and services around everything else but prayer which was the very thing the early church was built around! It's not wonder something always seems to be "missing." It's prayer!
Prayer is what brings power! Prayer is what brings healing! Prayer is what brings deliverance! Prayer is what penetrates the forces of darkness! Prayer is what covers your children as they go out into an evil world! Prayer is what brings in the provision for your life! As David Yongi Cho (Pastor’s largest church in the world) would say, “No prayer, no power!”
I encourage you over the weekend to “withdraw” yourself in prayer! My you find your answers in prayer! May you find “breakthrough” in prayer! May you fellowship with the Almighty one through prayer! Don’t give up, pray! Don’t complain, pray! Don’t waver, pray! God will hear you and God will move!
We live in a society that is so busy, so fast-paced and hard to keep up with that sometimes we neglect the things that are truly important. We cram our schedules with events, programs, eating schedules, and everything else that can distract us from what truly matters if we are not careful. There may have not been a more busy man that walked the face of the earth than Jesus Christ himself. The last time I checked neither I nor you had people chasing you around to get saved, healed, delivered, and set free but Jesus Christ and his disciples at times, didn’t have the time to even eat!
One thing he never got “out of whack” is His prayer life. You see He realized his first “ministry” was unto God not unto man! He realized that the greatest commandment was vertical and not horizontal! He realized that He was to first, “Love the Lord with all his heart, soul and mind, and secondly to love his neighbor as himself" but he realized his first ministry was unto God before He could minister unto man!
Is prayer a priority in your life? It was such a priority in Jesus’ life that he had to get up before daylight at times! He had to get “lonely in prayer.”
"Afterward he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. (Matthew 14:23) There were times when He literally had to withdraw himself from others and go “hide” somewhere in prayer. “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.” (Luke 5:16)
The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:33 to “Seek first the kingdom of God…” It is basically saying that we need to make God’s kingdom first priority in our lives over everything! God first, everything else second!
I believe one of the “lost arts” in the church of America today is prayer! We revolve our programs and services around everything else but prayer which was the very thing the early church was built around! It's not wonder something always seems to be "missing." It's prayer!
Prayer is what brings power! Prayer is what brings healing! Prayer is what brings deliverance! Prayer is what penetrates the forces of darkness! Prayer is what covers your children as they go out into an evil world! Prayer is what brings in the provision for your life! As David Yongi Cho (Pastor’s largest church in the world) would say, “No prayer, no power!”
I encourage you over the weekend to “withdraw” yourself in prayer! My you find your answers in prayer! May you find “breakthrough” in prayer! May you fellowship with the Almighty one through prayer! Don’t give up, pray! Don’t complain, pray! Don’t waver, pray! God will hear you and God will move!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
So long self
So long self…
We’ve all heard the popular song by Mercy Me entitled, “So long self” and fighting against our sin nature is something we will wrestle with the remainder of our lives, BUT, we must conquer it!
The Bible says in II. Timothy 3:1, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves…” What Paul was telling Timothy was basically this, “You can book it! In the last days, people are going to be selfish! They are only going to be worried about “me and mine”. Well, it doesn’t take a genius to understand that we live in a very self-centered selfish society. There are even popular messages today that are so revolved around “self”; self-esteem, self-worth, self-promotion” and it ministers to our flesh and not our spirit man who craves the things of God. We are to be led by not what is popular, not what is “hip”, not what is “in”, not what “feels right” necessarily, but to be lead by the truths found in the word. We are to submit to and obey that which revolves around that! Now I’m not saying this is easy because as long as we are in this body we will wrestle with “self.”
If we are born-again we are called to “die to self.” John the Baptist said “I must become less and he must become greater.” Either we are becoming more “selfish” or we are becoming more like Christ. Genesis 4:7 says, “If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” We are to master sin! We are to take control and live above our sinful nature! Sin can’t get in the door unless we open it.
Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
When we are “dying daily” we no longer live for ourselves but begin living for the one who is worthy to be praised; Jesus Christ!
The Bible says in Luke 9:23-26, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
One of the most difficult things to do is to “give up our lives”. Why? Because we want to hang on to it. OUR dreams. OUR plans. OUR desires! It revolves around what WE want instead of what God wants. It involves building HIS kingdom instead of building OUR kingdom. Satan himself was a self-driven, selfish being.
Notice in Isaiah 14:12-15 it says (speaking of Lucifer), “How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in YOUR heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High. But you are brought down to the grave, to the depths of the pit.”
Was it just me or did you notice how many “I’s” were in the above passage? You see Satan or Lucifer went all wrong when he took the focus off of God and directed it towards himself! Jesus himself alone is to be praised!
It is only when we come to the end of ourselves that we will truly live the life God intended for us to live! So long self!
We’ve all heard the popular song by Mercy Me entitled, “So long self” and fighting against our sin nature is something we will wrestle with the remainder of our lives, BUT, we must conquer it!
The Bible says in II. Timothy 3:1, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves…” What Paul was telling Timothy was basically this, “You can book it! In the last days, people are going to be selfish! They are only going to be worried about “me and mine”. Well, it doesn’t take a genius to understand that we live in a very self-centered selfish society. There are even popular messages today that are so revolved around “self”; self-esteem, self-worth, self-promotion” and it ministers to our flesh and not our spirit man who craves the things of God. We are to be led by not what is popular, not what is “hip”, not what is “in”, not what “feels right” necessarily, but to be lead by the truths found in the word. We are to submit to and obey that which revolves around that! Now I’m not saying this is easy because as long as we are in this body we will wrestle with “self.”
If we are born-again we are called to “die to self.” John the Baptist said “I must become less and he must become greater.” Either we are becoming more “selfish” or we are becoming more like Christ. Genesis 4:7 says, “If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.” We are to master sin! We are to take control and live above our sinful nature! Sin can’t get in the door unless we open it.
Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
When we are “dying daily” we no longer live for ourselves but begin living for the one who is worthy to be praised; Jesus Christ!
The Bible says in Luke 9:23-26, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
One of the most difficult things to do is to “give up our lives”. Why? Because we want to hang on to it. OUR dreams. OUR plans. OUR desires! It revolves around what WE want instead of what God wants. It involves building HIS kingdom instead of building OUR kingdom. Satan himself was a self-driven, selfish being.
Notice in Isaiah 14:12-15 it says (speaking of Lucifer), “How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in YOUR heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High. But you are brought down to the grave, to the depths of the pit.”
Was it just me or did you notice how many “I’s” were in the above passage? You see Satan or Lucifer went all wrong when he took the focus off of God and directed it towards himself! Jesus himself alone is to be praised!
It is only when we come to the end of ourselves that we will truly live the life God intended for us to live! So long self!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Prison Ministry Update
I had the honor to accompany Hope Street Ministires last night to minister in Union Parish Detention Center which we've done now for the past several years.
I opened up out of Romans 4:18-25 for about 15 minutes followed by two other ministers of the gospel. We had the opportunity to minister (pray) for several inmates in response to the word of God.
The Bible says in Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
We talk and minister to literally hundreds of inmates who have lost all hope in life. They live or should I say die daily in hopelessness. What a sad place to be, hopeless. Some have seen their lives literally lay in ruins as Satan has taken them captive to do his will. Let me say this, apart from Jesus Christ none of us has a hope in the world! We are hopeless without a relationship with Jesus! Thank the good Lord he came to "set the captives free!" As we minister through the word of God it is not chained and the truth that comes from the word under the anointing will "set them free."
Remember, you come across people "behind bars" daily who do not know Jesus Christ. They are at your work, they are in your home, they are walking the streets and yes; they are in churches! We are all "in prison" without the freedom that comes through knowing Christ!
I opened up out of Romans 4:18-25 for about 15 minutes followed by two other ministers of the gospel. We had the opportunity to minister (pray) for several inmates in response to the word of God.
The Bible says in Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
We talk and minister to literally hundreds of inmates who have lost all hope in life. They live or should I say die daily in hopelessness. What a sad place to be, hopeless. Some have seen their lives literally lay in ruins as Satan has taken them captive to do his will. Let me say this, apart from Jesus Christ none of us has a hope in the world! We are hopeless without a relationship with Jesus! Thank the good Lord he came to "set the captives free!" As we minister through the word of God it is not chained and the truth that comes from the word under the anointing will "set them free."
Remember, you come across people "behind bars" daily who do not know Jesus Christ. They are at your work, they are in your home, they are walking the streets and yes; they are in churches! We are all "in prison" without the freedom that comes through knowing Christ!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Against all hope
*Read the following verses very slowly
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead-since he was about a hundred years old-and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” (Romans 4:18-21)
We find the call of Abram in Genesis 12:1-3 where it says, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Abram was a man that walked by/in faith. God had told him to leave everything! To go where? Who knows! Only to the place where God was going to show him. Why? Because God was working in Abraham and was building his faith to receive a greater promise!
“But Abram said, “O Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus? And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.” (Gen. 15:2-3)
Then the word of the Lord came to him; “This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir…Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness." (Genesis 15:6)
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead-since he was about a hundred years old-and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” (Romans 4:18-21)
God had promised Abraham something that was nothing short of a miracle. God promised Abraham a son through whom the promise of God would come through. Now, to some of us having a son might not be such a big deal but Abraham was a 100 years old! (They didn’t have Viagra back then) On top of that his wife was old and barren as well. Way pass her years of childbearing! Logically, this could not happen but we don’t serve a God of logic do we? We serve a God of miracles, who is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think.”
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed…Without weakening in his faith…Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God…” (Romans 4)
What about you? Are you facing gigantic odds in your life right now? Has everything, every power, and every devil in the spirit realms seem to be coming at you? Does hope seem like it has faded? Does your situation seem "dead" as Abraham and Sarah's bodies seemed? Has the devil tempted you to renounce Christ and wade in the waters of doubt and unbelief? I encourage you, grab a hold of God’s word, his promises to you and don’t waver! Against all hope in your situation have hope! Believe God! Believe God that “he is not a man that he should lie.” Believe God that “all his promises are yea and amen through Christ!” Believe God that “heaven and earth will pass away but his word will stand forever!” Against all hope in hope believe God for your family! Against all hope in hope believe God about your situation! Against all hope in hope believe God for the salvation of your children! Against all hope in hope believe God for that financial miracle to come at just the right moment! Against all hope in hope believe God that He said, “He would never leave you nor forsake you!” Against all hope in hope believe God that you are "more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ!" Against all hope in hope believe God that he "shall supply all your needs according to his riches and glory through Christ Jesus" Dare to have faith! Dare to believe God!
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead-since he was about a hundred years old-and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” (Romans 4:18-21)
We find the call of Abram in Genesis 12:1-3 where it says, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
Abram was a man that walked by/in faith. God had told him to leave everything! To go where? Who knows! Only to the place where God was going to show him. Why? Because God was working in Abraham and was building his faith to receive a greater promise!
“But Abram said, “O Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus? And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.” (Gen. 15:2-3)
Then the word of the Lord came to him; “This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir…Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness." (Genesis 15:6)
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead-since he was about a hundred years old-and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” (Romans 4:18-21)
God had promised Abraham something that was nothing short of a miracle. God promised Abraham a son through whom the promise of God would come through. Now, to some of us having a son might not be such a big deal but Abraham was a 100 years old! (They didn’t have Viagra back then) On top of that his wife was old and barren as well. Way pass her years of childbearing! Logically, this could not happen but we don’t serve a God of logic do we? We serve a God of miracles, who is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think.”
“Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed…Without weakening in his faith…Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God…” (Romans 4)
What about you? Are you facing gigantic odds in your life right now? Has everything, every power, and every devil in the spirit realms seem to be coming at you? Does hope seem like it has faded? Does your situation seem "dead" as Abraham and Sarah's bodies seemed? Has the devil tempted you to renounce Christ and wade in the waters of doubt and unbelief? I encourage you, grab a hold of God’s word, his promises to you and don’t waver! Against all hope in your situation have hope! Believe God! Believe God that “he is not a man that he should lie.” Believe God that “all his promises are yea and amen through Christ!” Believe God that “heaven and earth will pass away but his word will stand forever!” Against all hope in hope believe God for your family! Against all hope in hope believe God about your situation! Against all hope in hope believe God for the salvation of your children! Against all hope in hope believe God for that financial miracle to come at just the right moment! Against all hope in hope believe God that He said, “He would never leave you nor forsake you!” Against all hope in hope believe God that you are "more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ!" Against all hope in hope believe God that he "shall supply all your needs according to his riches and glory through Christ Jesus" Dare to have faith! Dare to believe God!
Friday, March 09, 2007
Are you listening?
We would be truly amazed of how God could and wants to use us if only we would listen to him! He still speaks! ARE YOU LISTENING TO HIS VOICE!?
A young man had been to Wednesday night Bible Study. The Pastor had shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice. The young man couldn't help but wonder, "Does God still speak to people?" After service he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how God had led them in different ways. It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, "God...If you still speak to people speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey." As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, "God is that you?" He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk. The young man thought about Samuel and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli. "Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk." It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed Seventh Street , he again felt the urge, "Turn Down that street." This is crazy he thought and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street at the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, "Okay, God, I will". He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in semi commercial area of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, "Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street." The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. "Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid." Again, he felt like he should go give the milk. Finally, he opened the door, "Okay God, if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something but if they don't answer right away, I am out of here." He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, "Who is it? What do you want?" Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. "What is it?" The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, "Here, I brought this to you." The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, "We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk." His wife in the kitchen yelled out, "I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?"The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face.
God still speaks! Are you listening?
A young man had been to Wednesday night Bible Study. The Pastor had shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice. The young man couldn't help but wonder, "Does God still speak to people?" After service he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how God had led them in different ways. It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, "God...If you still speak to people speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey." As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, "God is that you?" He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk. The young man thought about Samuel and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli. "Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk." It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed Seventh Street , he again felt the urge, "Turn Down that street." This is crazy he thought and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street at the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, "Okay, God, I will". He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in semi commercial area of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, "Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street." The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. "Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid." Again, he felt like he should go give the milk. Finally, he opened the door, "Okay God, if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something but if they don't answer right away, I am out of here." He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, "Who is it? What do you want?" Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. "What is it?" The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, "Here, I brought this to you." The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, "We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk." His wife in the kitchen yelled out, "I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?"The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face.
God still speaks! Are you listening?
Thursday, March 08, 2007
What grieves the Holy Spirit?
What grieves the Holy Spirit?
You have heard the famous saying in churches, “They “quenched” the Spirit when they didn’t let this happen or that happen. Maybe they stopped worship too soon or didn’t let brother so and so give that prophecy or they stopped sister so and so from running around the church. But what really “quenches” the Holy Spirit? What would cause him not to move in our midst? What would displease him that He would leave our midst? The answer is found in Ephesians 4:29-32.
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” (Italics mine)
The first verse in the above passage says “let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth…” When we speak critically, dishonestly, or deceitfully about anyone, especially in the church, we grieve the Holy Spirit. It breeds distrust and deceit within the body of Christ.
We are told only to speak words of edification according to our brothers and sisters needs at that moment. Ephesians also says for us to “rid ourselves of all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander and also all malice.”
The Devil was said in Revelation to be the “accuser of the brethren”. Sometimes we feel as though we are speaking words from God when ironically we are being used by Satan himself. His mouthpiece to carry out his devilish will. There have been a many of “church splits” and offended people that were all rooted back to “unwholesome words.”
If we are to strive to have unity within the body of Christ and to see the Holy Spirit move in our midst, we must lay aside all talk that would “grieve” the Holy Spirit of God.
You have heard the famous saying in churches, “They “quenched” the Spirit when they didn’t let this happen or that happen. Maybe they stopped worship too soon or didn’t let brother so and so give that prophecy or they stopped sister so and so from running around the church. But what really “quenches” the Holy Spirit? What would cause him not to move in our midst? What would displease him that He would leave our midst? The answer is found in Ephesians 4:29-32.
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” (Italics mine)
The first verse in the above passage says “let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth…” When we speak critically, dishonestly, or deceitfully about anyone, especially in the church, we grieve the Holy Spirit. It breeds distrust and deceit within the body of Christ.
We are told only to speak words of edification according to our brothers and sisters needs at that moment. Ephesians also says for us to “rid ourselves of all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander and also all malice.”
The Devil was said in Revelation to be the “accuser of the brethren”. Sometimes we feel as though we are speaking words from God when ironically we are being used by Satan himself. His mouthpiece to carry out his devilish will. There have been a many of “church splits” and offended people that were all rooted back to “unwholesome words.”
If we are to strive to have unity within the body of Christ and to see the Holy Spirit move in our midst, we must lay aside all talk that would “grieve” the Holy Spirit of God.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Spiritual Adultery
*The following is a tough word. Viewer discretion is advised.
*I received this word during a recent time of prayer and fasting.
“Spiritual Adultery”
Ezekiel 16:8-14;
“For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given to her to wear.” (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” (Revelation 19:7-8)
The word of God many times uses marriage to illustrate the covenant we (the church) have with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Just as a bride (the church) would prepare herself (purify) for her husband (the groom-Jesus) and her wedding day (his coming) so you are calling your church to purify itself as a spotless and radiant bride (the church)!
When my wife and I united in “Holy Matrimony” we entered into a (blood) covenant. As a husband I am to be “dead” to every woman in this world but my wife. If I was to ever “look upon a woman in lust” I have committed adultery with her in my heart and am sinning against our covenant. If I was to ever “leave my bride” and become one with another I will have committed adultery. I do not want to do anything that would hinder, hurt, or betray my beloved bride nor would she do anything to betray the bridegroom!
The Bible says, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”
“For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the vain glory of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (I. John 2:15-17)
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take Christ's members and make them the members of a prostitute? Of course not! (Or) do you not know that anyone who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For "the two," it says, "will become one flesh."
“But whoever is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.” (I. Cor. 6:15-17)
A very truthful but terrifying fact is the church has been flirting with another,(the world). In some instances you can’t tell the difference between the church and the world! I believe it was John Wesley who said, “We need to drive the world out of the church and drive the church into the world.” We’ve allowed the world’s thinking, concepts, and values to enter into the church instead of the church influencing the world! Have we committed adultery with the world? Have we “forsaken our first love?” Are we treading on dangerous ground?
As I have been reading an updated version on John Foxe's "Book of Martyrs", I can't help but have this revelation; These men of faith were martyred because of the word of God they preached and the faith that they had in the Lord Jesus Christ! The Bible says he is coming back for a spot-less, radiant bride! Not a cool bride! Not a hip bride! A spotless and radiant church! Lord, help prepare us! Lord, let us be one with you and dare not flirt with the spirit of the world! Forgive us where we have failed! Let us be reminded, this is your church not ours!
*I received this word during a recent time of prayer and fasting.
“Spiritual Adultery”
Ezekiel 16:8-14;
“For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given to her to wear.” (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” (Revelation 19:7-8)
The word of God many times uses marriage to illustrate the covenant we (the church) have with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Just as a bride (the church) would prepare herself (purify) for her husband (the groom-Jesus) and her wedding day (his coming) so you are calling your church to purify itself as a spotless and radiant bride (the church)!
When my wife and I united in “Holy Matrimony” we entered into a (blood) covenant. As a husband I am to be “dead” to every woman in this world but my wife. If I was to ever “look upon a woman in lust” I have committed adultery with her in my heart and am sinning against our covenant. If I was to ever “leave my bride” and become one with another I will have committed adultery. I do not want to do anything that would hinder, hurt, or betray my beloved bride nor would she do anything to betray the bridegroom!
The Bible says, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”
“For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the vain glory of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (I. John 2:15-17)
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take Christ's members and make them the members of a prostitute? Of course not! (Or) do you not know that anyone who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For "the two," it says, "will become one flesh."
“But whoever is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.” (I. Cor. 6:15-17)
A very truthful but terrifying fact is the church has been flirting with another,(the world). In some instances you can’t tell the difference between the church and the world! I believe it was John Wesley who said, “We need to drive the world out of the church and drive the church into the world.” We’ve allowed the world’s thinking, concepts, and values to enter into the church instead of the church influencing the world! Have we committed adultery with the world? Have we “forsaken our first love?” Are we treading on dangerous ground?
As I have been reading an updated version on John Foxe's "Book of Martyrs", I can't help but have this revelation; These men of faith were martyred because of the word of God they preached and the faith that they had in the Lord Jesus Christ! The Bible says he is coming back for a spot-less, radiant bride! Not a cool bride! Not a hip bride! A spotless and radiant church! Lord, help prepare us! Lord, let us be one with you and dare not flirt with the spirit of the world! Forgive us where we have failed! Let us be reminded, this is your church not ours!
Wrapped up weekend
(Pictured above with my lovely wife Jodi, preaching Sat. P.M. service, and teenagers worshipping Christ at the altar)
After preaching both morning services this past Sunday, we wrapped up a very busy weekend in Hodge, Louisiana.
We challenged the teengers to now put into practice what they've been taught over the course of the weekend.
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourselves." (James 1:22)
If you only know the word and not live it, you deceive yourself. If you only hear the word and not live it, you only decieve yourself. We are to hear and obey the commandments of Jesus Christ reflecting His character in our lives!
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Hodge 007
(Pictured above eating some crawfish with my "bud" B.J. Whitton and also with Hodge Church Student Pastor Keith Landrum)
*So far we've seen six teengers Friday night recommit their lives to Christ and two more as of this mornings service give their hearts to Jesus.His name be praised!
We kicked off the weekend in Hodge, LA with some dynamic worship from a band out of Texas and then I brought a word entitled, "Crisis in the Home." You know the Bible says in Matthew 12:25 that, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand." The family was designed and ordained of God (even before ministry to the church). The family unit is very close to the heart of God and I see a tremendous meltdown occuring in the home. Divorce is the "norm" now and we are seeing "family" being tainted like never before. I believe Hell has launced an all out assault against the home. Why? Because strong families build strong churches which in turn will touch communities, states, and nations for Christ!! It is amazing to see what our teenagers are growing up in these days. I spoke Friday night out of Genesis 37 and spoke about how Joseph's family life affected him. Of course he didn't allow it to embitter him! The Lord used it for the good of His glory!
This morning we switched gears and I challenged the teenagers to do something a bit different. Look in the mirror! We are our biggest obstacle! We need to quit blaming our parents, grandparents and the rest of the family tree for our problems! Yes, we may of had it tough but are we doing our part at home? Billy Graham said, "The true test of a Christian is the way he lives at home."After Jesus delivered a demon-possessed man he told him, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." (Matthew 5:18-19) In John 21:20 after Jesus had revealed to Peter the kind of death he would experienced Peter said speaking of John, "Lord what about him?" Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." In other words, don't worry about what everybody else is suppose to be doing, you do your part! So are we doing our part at home? For the kingdom?
Tonight, is "The Gathering" which is a church-wide function across the area. Churches from all over and from different denominations will be coming tonight to worship the Lord and hear from His word. We are ministering to them out of the love of Christ but with the only thing that can save, heal, deliver, and set them free; the unchained, uncompromised, word of the living God!
Tonight I will be ministering out of Matthew 12:46-50 when Jesus was told his "family" was outside he replied by saying, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” Some of these teenagers dont' have flesh and blood family but they are indeed apart of a family; the family of God! Father God is their Father! We will also be ministering out of Luke 15:11-32 which tells the story of the Prodigal's Son. We are calling those who have "left home" to come back to the Father!
After we minister to both morning services tomorrow we will be heading back to West Monroe. Please pray for these services and for our safety driving home.
God Bless,
Beck
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Family Bond Weekend
"While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you." He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven in my brother and sister and mother." (Matthew 12:46-50)
We will be leaving tomorrow afternoon to preach four different services in Hodge, Louisiana. The entire weekend will be revolving around the family relationships.
But what about those who will be there who have no family life? Maybe they were adopted and felt "abondoned" by their "blood" parents. Maybe some there have lost both of their parents to some tradgedy. Maybe some teenagers are being raised by an uncle or a grandparent. The "family" is much, much more than just "blood" kin. It is much larger than you think!
Some teenagers today don't have the ideal family life. They weren't raised in the Cleavers household, the Brady's household, or a fairy tale household. Maybe some were physically, mentally, verbally, or even sexually abused. Maybe the word family to them doesn't seem so sweet. Maybe the family isn't a refuge or safe haven to them as it maybe with other people. Jesus said in the above passage that whoever does the will of the Father in heaven is the family! You are apart of a much larger, much broader family than you think-the church of the Lord Jesus Christ! If you've been blood bought and Jesus is Lord of your life you are in the family of God! You have "mothers" who love you! You have "sisters" who love you! You have "brothers" who love you! Most of all, you have a "Father" who loves you!
We will be leaving tomorrow afternoon to preach four different services in Hodge, Louisiana. The entire weekend will be revolving around the family relationships.
But what about those who will be there who have no family life? Maybe they were adopted and felt "abondoned" by their "blood" parents. Maybe some there have lost both of their parents to some tradgedy. Maybe some teenagers are being raised by an uncle or a grandparent. The "family" is much, much more than just "blood" kin. It is much larger than you think!
Some teenagers today don't have the ideal family life. They weren't raised in the Cleavers household, the Brady's household, or a fairy tale household. Maybe some were physically, mentally, verbally, or even sexually abused. Maybe the word family to them doesn't seem so sweet. Maybe the family isn't a refuge or safe haven to them as it maybe with other people. Jesus said in the above passage that whoever does the will of the Father in heaven is the family! You are apart of a much larger, much broader family than you think-the church of the Lord Jesus Christ! If you've been blood bought and Jesus is Lord of your life you are in the family of God! You have "mothers" who love you! You have "sisters" who love you! You have "brothers" who love you! Most of all, you have a "Father" who loves you!
Friday, February 23, 2007
Family Relationships-Part I
The family was designed and ordained by God (even before His church). With that being said, I believe the family is very, very close to the heart of God. The Bible says, "If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?" (I. Timothy 3:5) This verse is addressed to fathers who are to be leaders of the church and it also demonstrates how very important the family is to God! Giving vital attention to the family even comes before "ministry" in God's church! If we fail to have effective relationships in the family we can hurt our ability to be effective when we reach out to others.
We live in a society where the family picture has been tainted! Divorce is rampant in America, even amongst the church. We are now seeing "Holy Matrimony" being legalized for homosexual partners. We are seeing these unordained events take place while innocent children are being adopted into these situations. How will this effect these children, our society, our future?
The word of God says, "A house divided will not stand." I believe there has been an all out assualt from Hell on the family. Why? Because Satan knows strong families build strong churches and he doesn't want that to happen! He has been attacking the family since Genesis, "the beginning!
I encourage you to take your "small group" or "family" very seriously. Pray over them, spend time with them, love them. God has ordained the family!
Be blessed,
Beck
We live in a society where the family picture has been tainted! Divorce is rampant in America, even amongst the church. We are now seeing "Holy Matrimony" being legalized for homosexual partners. We are seeing these unordained events take place while innocent children are being adopted into these situations. How will this effect these children, our society, our future?
The word of God says, "A house divided will not stand." I believe there has been an all out assualt from Hell on the family. Why? Because Satan knows strong families build strong churches and he doesn't want that to happen! He has been attacking the family since Genesis, "the beginning!
I encourage you to take your "small group" or "family" very seriously. Pray over them, spend time with them, love them. God has ordained the family!
Be blessed,
Beck
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Family Bonds
We will be ministering to high school, junior high, and college age students on March 2nd, 3rd, and 4th in Hodge, Louisiana.
The entire weekend will be focused on and around family relationships. The next few days we will be taking a peak into some of the topics we will be covering during the event.
Some of the topics will include:
1) The most important "small group" you will ever be apart of-God ordained the family.
2) Strained Family Relationships-The Story of Joseph
3) You are apart of a family-The Church
Have a great weekend!
Beck
The entire weekend will be focused on and around family relationships. The next few days we will be taking a peak into some of the topics we will be covering during the event.
Some of the topics will include:
1) The most important "small group" you will ever be apart of-God ordained the family.
2) Strained Family Relationships-The Story of Joseph
3) You are apart of a family-The Church
Have a great weekend!
Beck
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Dear Friends of Life Church West Monroe
Dear Friends,
As I’m sure you are now aware, Jodi and I have resigned from the Student Ministry at Life Church West Monroe, which became effective February 16, 2007.
Jodi and I have put in countless hours and even years of prayer into the direction of our lives, ministry, etc. One of the main prayer focuses during “Life Church’s 21 Day Fast” was for the direction of our lives and ministry. We believe God has made His answer very clear to us during the last week of the fast. We now know and believe the Lord is leading us into a different direction for our lives and ministry.
We can’t even begin to explain to you how thankful we are to have formed so many wonderful relationships during our time at Life Church West Monroe. We have laughed with you, cried with you, prayed with you, and had wonderful fellowship with each of you. Because we love you this decision was very difficult, but we still must be obedient to the Lord’s leading.
We are very thankful to Pastor Joel and Angel for the opportunity to serve alongside them and also for giving us the opportunity to found the student ministry. We are grateful for the hours they’ve invested into our lives upon our arrival in 2003. For almost four years Pastor Joel has been a mentor to me personally and has become a wonderful friend in my life.
We are very thankful to the eldership and leadership that Life Church West Monroe has provided for us and the opportunity to be ordained in December of last year.
We believe the Student Ministry is healthy and we pray the ministry will be able to continue to grow spiritually under new leadership.
On a personal note, Jodi and I are stronger in the Lord now than we’ve ever been. Our marriage is also stronger and more unified than ever.
With that being said, we do ask that you please continue to pray for the direction and guidance of the Lord as he leads us in our lives. We are very excited for the opportunities that await us.
We love each of you very, very much.
His Bondservants,
Beck and Jodi Payne
As I’m sure you are now aware, Jodi and I have resigned from the Student Ministry at Life Church West Monroe, which became effective February 16, 2007.
Jodi and I have put in countless hours and even years of prayer into the direction of our lives, ministry, etc. One of the main prayer focuses during “Life Church’s 21 Day Fast” was for the direction of our lives and ministry. We believe God has made His answer very clear to us during the last week of the fast. We now know and believe the Lord is leading us into a different direction for our lives and ministry.
We can’t even begin to explain to you how thankful we are to have formed so many wonderful relationships during our time at Life Church West Monroe. We have laughed with you, cried with you, prayed with you, and had wonderful fellowship with each of you. Because we love you this decision was very difficult, but we still must be obedient to the Lord’s leading.
We are very thankful to Pastor Joel and Angel for the opportunity to serve alongside them and also for giving us the opportunity to found the student ministry. We are grateful for the hours they’ve invested into our lives upon our arrival in 2003. For almost four years Pastor Joel has been a mentor to me personally and has become a wonderful friend in my life.
We are very thankful to the eldership and leadership that Life Church West Monroe has provided for us and the opportunity to be ordained in December of last year.
We believe the Student Ministry is healthy and we pray the ministry will be able to continue to grow spiritually under new leadership.
On a personal note, Jodi and I are stronger in the Lord now than we’ve ever been. Our marriage is also stronger and more unified than ever.
With that being said, we do ask that you please continue to pray for the direction and guidance of the Lord as he leads us in our lives. We are very excited for the opportunities that await us.
We love each of you very, very much.
His Bondservants,
Beck and Jodi Payne
Monday, February 19, 2007
Street Ministry
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me..." (Matthew 25:35-36)
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor..." (Luke 4:18)
It was an honor to be back with Hope Steet Ministries this past Sunday afternoon. This ministry has faithfully preached the gospel and fed the homeless for 20 straight years now on the corner of Desiard and 6th Street in downtown Monroe, Louisiana. As I awaited the arrival of the man that heads this ministry up, you could see the people start coming out like deer do right before dark. (They have a tremendous amount of respect for this man. I can see why, he hasn't abandoned them in over 20 years.) They came out of abandoned houses, down the railroad tracks, on foot, on bikes, and from all across the downtown area. They come for a hot, fresh meal but they get much more than that; a hot, fresh word! It's challenging trying to preach over a train whistle and cop sirens!
What touches my heart more than anything is to see all the little children that come down to the streets. Instead of getting involved with the preaching or the handouts yesterday, I decided to visit with the little children. We prayed over a grandmother in a wheelchair that had about 3 of her grandchildren down there. As we prayed tears rolled down her cheeks. You could see the weariness in her face. Shes trying to raise these kids right, but it's tough in the year 2007.
After the preaching we prayed for several people, blessed the food, and fed them. This work is costly but the rewards are eternal! It's not popular, it's not flashy, but if Jesus were here in the flesh, I believe you would see him there.
Think we have it tough? All you have to do is go to downtown Monroe on a Sunday afternoon and think again! Have a great day!
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor..." (Luke 4:18)
It was an honor to be back with Hope Steet Ministries this past Sunday afternoon. This ministry has faithfully preached the gospel and fed the homeless for 20 straight years now on the corner of Desiard and 6th Street in downtown Monroe, Louisiana. As I awaited the arrival of the man that heads this ministry up, you could see the people start coming out like deer do right before dark. (They have a tremendous amount of respect for this man. I can see why, he hasn't abandoned them in over 20 years.) They came out of abandoned houses, down the railroad tracks, on foot, on bikes, and from all across the downtown area. They come for a hot, fresh meal but they get much more than that; a hot, fresh word! It's challenging trying to preach over a train whistle and cop sirens!
What touches my heart more than anything is to see all the little children that come down to the streets. Instead of getting involved with the preaching or the handouts yesterday, I decided to visit with the little children. We prayed over a grandmother in a wheelchair that had about 3 of her grandchildren down there. As we prayed tears rolled down her cheeks. You could see the weariness in her face. Shes trying to raise these kids right, but it's tough in the year 2007.
After the preaching we prayed for several people, blessed the food, and fed them. This work is costly but the rewards are eternal! It's not popular, it's not flashy, but if Jesus were here in the flesh, I believe you would see him there.
Think we have it tough? All you have to do is go to downtown Monroe on a Sunday afternoon and think again! Have a great day!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Student Ministry Pics
As I promised I got some pics up...well, one pic. This is a pic of some of the 'gals' who are apart of X.L. (Xtreme Life not Extra Large).
We had some food and fun following this past Wednesday night's service
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Student Ministry Meeting
After waking up at 3:30 A.M. and spending all day in Lafayette on business, I'm pooped!
Last night we had a big crowd of teenagers and a room filled with Valentine galore thanks to Hannah and Bekah Dyke who did the decorating.
We continued on our current series, "Love" with a message entitled, "Three Area's of Love." They were: Love for God, Love for people, and Love for truth. We had three teenagers give their hearts to Jesus Christ!!! This is the third Wednesday in a row where we had teenagers saved by the love of Jesus!
We did take a couple of pictures of last nights event and I hoped to get them posted tomorrow.
Until then, have a great weekend!
Last night we had a big crowd of teenagers and a room filled with Valentine galore thanks to Hannah and Bekah Dyke who did the decorating.
We continued on our current series, "Love" with a message entitled, "Three Area's of Love." They were: Love for God, Love for people, and Love for truth. We had three teenagers give their hearts to Jesus Christ!!! This is the third Wednesday in a row where we had teenagers saved by the love of Jesus!
We did take a couple of pictures of last nights event and I hoped to get them posted tomorrow.
Until then, have a great weekend!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
"I was in prison and you came to visit me."
These were the words of our Savior from the 25th chapter of the gospel according to Matthew. Some people have a hard time getting to Jesus so we have to bring Jesus to those people! They are: the lost, the hurting, the poor, the captives and those imprisoned.
I have had the wonderful opportunity the past several years to minister with Ricky Nolan who is the founder of Hope Street Ministries. Last night we ministered to a room full of people most of which were hanging on to our every word.
I opened up out of Ephesians 6 and spoke to them about the full armor of God. You know although we all are different in many ways, including some of our backgrounds, race, denominations, or various other things, we all have one thing in common;we are all in a spiritual battle! After I spent 15-20 minutes ministering Bro.Rick came in behind and wrapped up. It was a great meeting!
We had anywhere between 20-30 inmates respond to the word of the Lord. I had one young man come forward weeping over his life and how it has been shattered. His words were, "My heart is hurting." My prayer was that Jesus would begin to heal him, pick up the pieces, and give him a new heart!
One of the most common prayer requests we hear involves many of the inmates families. My heart goes out to them as I can't imagine starring at a bland ceiling every night wondering how my family is doing while I was locked up.
It is so important that we listen very closely to what the Lord is saying. Sometimes, our lives could depend on it! My heart rejoices for those that listen and respond but breaks for those we saw that sat back and spent their time doing other things. Nevertheless, we have to keep going and reaching out because one day, they just might respond!
For example, several years ago Bro.Rick was ministering and every time he would go he would see a young man starring at him through the thick glass window in a cell waving for him to come over. The young man was going to serve life in prison but had given his heart to Christ while incarcerated. One night Bro.Rick gave an altar call and this young man came forward for prayer. Rick said in all his years ministering at this facility he's never given a word quite like this nor has he since. He prayed for this young man and said, "Thus says the Lord God, "Son, they've laid a trap for you and if you accept any of the deals you will spend life in prison." Walking away almost puzzled the young man didn't quite understand but knew somehow it was true. As time passed, it was time for the young man to go before the judge. They offered him...5 deals and he declined them all. People told him that he was a fool for not accepting any of these deals! After 24 months of time served the judge spoke, "I believe your life is changed...you are free to go on time served." His father who was convicted of the very same thing...received a life sentence. He had accepted one of the deals.
Point being, what if he had not responded that night? What if he would have thrown the word of the Lord to the side? What if Rick would have not been obedient to bring forth the word God had given him? I believe it changed this young mans destiny! He is now serving God full-time in the ministry at a local church!
I encourage you to remember those who are incarcerated. Jesus loves them and died for them as he did for any of us. He still has a plan for their lives! To Him be the glory!
I have had the wonderful opportunity the past several years to minister with Ricky Nolan who is the founder of Hope Street Ministries. Last night we ministered to a room full of people most of which were hanging on to our every word.
I opened up out of Ephesians 6 and spoke to them about the full armor of God. You know although we all are different in many ways, including some of our backgrounds, race, denominations, or various other things, we all have one thing in common;we are all in a spiritual battle! After I spent 15-20 minutes ministering Bro.Rick came in behind and wrapped up. It was a great meeting!
We had anywhere between 20-30 inmates respond to the word of the Lord. I had one young man come forward weeping over his life and how it has been shattered. His words were, "My heart is hurting." My prayer was that Jesus would begin to heal him, pick up the pieces, and give him a new heart!
One of the most common prayer requests we hear involves many of the inmates families. My heart goes out to them as I can't imagine starring at a bland ceiling every night wondering how my family is doing while I was locked up.
It is so important that we listen very closely to what the Lord is saying. Sometimes, our lives could depend on it! My heart rejoices for those that listen and respond but breaks for those we saw that sat back and spent their time doing other things. Nevertheless, we have to keep going and reaching out because one day, they just might respond!
For example, several years ago Bro.Rick was ministering and every time he would go he would see a young man starring at him through the thick glass window in a cell waving for him to come over. The young man was going to serve life in prison but had given his heart to Christ while incarcerated. One night Bro.Rick gave an altar call and this young man came forward for prayer. Rick said in all his years ministering at this facility he's never given a word quite like this nor has he since. He prayed for this young man and said, "Thus says the Lord God, "Son, they've laid a trap for you and if you accept any of the deals you will spend life in prison." Walking away almost puzzled the young man didn't quite understand but knew somehow it was true. As time passed, it was time for the young man to go before the judge. They offered him...5 deals and he declined them all. People told him that he was a fool for not accepting any of these deals! After 24 months of time served the judge spoke, "I believe your life is changed...you are free to go on time served." His father who was convicted of the very same thing...received a life sentence. He had accepted one of the deals.
Point being, what if he had not responded that night? What if he would have thrown the word of the Lord to the side? What if Rick would have not been obedient to bring forth the word God had given him? I believe it changed this young mans destiny! He is now serving God full-time in the ministry at a local church!
I encourage you to remember those who are incarcerated. Jesus loves them and died for them as he did for any of us. He still has a plan for their lives! To Him be the glory!
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