On June 27th, 2006 at 2:04 P.M. my life was forever changed when my wife gave birth to Gracen Hope Payne. I was not ready for the storm of joy and emotion I would feel when I saw my precious baby girl come into this world.
I would like to thank everyone for their prayers for my wife and Gracen's safety during the delivery. Life Church is our family and we thank everyone for visiting and being there for us during this exciting time!
Grace and Hope
God gave Jodi this name (Gracen Hope, sounds like Grace and Hope) for our child one morning as she was praying. How true it is that we are in desperate need of God's "Grace N' Hope."
Friday, June 30, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
What's in your account?
"Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account." ( Philippians 4:17)
We work hard to build us up savings, retirement, and other resources to give us more comfort while here on earth. All of these "things" will one day turn to rust and we certainly can't take them with us in eternity. So why work so hard for something that is temporary?
The Bible tells us to "not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt.6:19-21)
What ashame if we were to build up our earthly account only to find our heavenly account empty one day. We are to build us up a heavenly account! Everytime you win a soul to Christ that is credited to your account! Everytime you give to a missionary who wins a soul to Christ that is credited to your account! Everytime you serve or bless others you build up your account! Everytime you take the time to spend with a child that goes to your account!
So how does your account look? What's in your account?
We work hard to build us up savings, retirement, and other resources to give us more comfort while here on earth. All of these "things" will one day turn to rust and we certainly can't take them with us in eternity. So why work so hard for something that is temporary?
The Bible tells us to "not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt.6:19-21)
What ashame if we were to build up our earthly account only to find our heavenly account empty one day. We are to build us up a heavenly account! Everytime you win a soul to Christ that is credited to your account! Everytime you give to a missionary who wins a soul to Christ that is credited to your account! Everytime you serve or bless others you build up your account! Everytime you take the time to spend with a child that goes to your account!
So how does your account look? What's in your account?
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Congrats Pastor Joel and Angel Dyke!
A congratulations is in order for our Pastor and his wife Angel as they celebrated thier 19th Wedding Anniversary this week! Congratulations guys! Thank you both for who you are and all you do for everyone at Life Church.
Note: Angel. How did you do it? 19 years with this guy!!!???
THANK YOU!
Note: Angel. How did you do it? 19 years with this guy!!!???
THANK YOU!
Monday, June 19, 2006
Pregnant with a Promise
"This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 1:18)
Each year my wife and I pray for God to give us a "word" for the upcoming year. In 2005, the Lord gave my wife the word "expectancy" and this year he gave me the word "fulfillment."
As most of you know Jodi is pregnant and about to give birth to a baby girl. For the past 9 months we've been "expecting" something. We've been expecting a promise to be fulfilled. There were pains that Jodi has been going through since her pregnancy but she is "expecting" a promise to be fulfilled that will make it worth it.
Did you know that you can be spiritually "expecting"? Spiritually pregnant? What has God promised you? There is a word that God has spoken over your life that you conceived and now you are spiritually impregnanted by that promise and you are waiting for that promise to come forth. It may seem like it's been taking a while but you are spiritually pregnant, it takes time. It may seem like its taken awhile to come forth. To manifest. To come to pass. To be fulfilled but it's coming forth because you are spiritually pregnant. Sure it may hurt while the time passes. There may be pain, there may be trials but it will be all worth it when the promise of God for your life gives birth!
Are you expecting?
Each year my wife and I pray for God to give us a "word" for the upcoming year. In 2005, the Lord gave my wife the word "expectancy" and this year he gave me the word "fulfillment."
As most of you know Jodi is pregnant and about to give birth to a baby girl. For the past 9 months we've been "expecting" something. We've been expecting a promise to be fulfilled. There were pains that Jodi has been going through since her pregnancy but she is "expecting" a promise to be fulfilled that will make it worth it.
Did you know that you can be spiritually "expecting"? Spiritually pregnant? What has God promised you? There is a word that God has spoken over your life that you conceived and now you are spiritually impregnanted by that promise and you are waiting for that promise to come forth. It may seem like it's been taking a while but you are spiritually pregnant, it takes time. It may seem like its taken awhile to come forth. To manifest. To come to pass. To be fulfilled but it's coming forth because you are spiritually pregnant. Sure it may hurt while the time passes. There may be pain, there may be trials but it will be all worth it when the promise of God for your life gives birth!
Are you expecting?
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Xtreme Life Night
Tonight, we had another great service in our student ministry here at Life Church.
Ian, Hannah, and Caleb led us in several wonderful worship songs to our Lord. You are doing a great job guys!
We taught from Genesis 11 about living for Christ or living for ourselves. Are we involved in God's plans for our lives or are we "making a name for ourselves"? We really challenged the students tonight from the word of God.
We wrapped up the message with a powerful testimony from Hannah Dyke. GREAT JOB HANNAH! It is so encouraging to see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our teenagers lives!
Matt Nance came in behind me and wrapped up the service wonderfully as he always does.
Last and least, we had alot of fun playing a few games of volleyball. (my team won and no it was not rigged."
Have a great week!
Ian, Hannah, and Caleb led us in several wonderful worship songs to our Lord. You are doing a great job guys!
We taught from Genesis 11 about living for Christ or living for ourselves. Are we involved in God's plans for our lives or are we "making a name for ourselves"? We really challenged the students tonight from the word of God.
We wrapped up the message with a powerful testimony from Hannah Dyke. GREAT JOB HANNAH! It is so encouraging to see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our teenagers lives!
Matt Nance came in behind me and wrapped up the service wonderfully as he always does.
Last and least, we had alot of fun playing a few games of volleyball. (my team won and no it was not rigged."
Have a great week!
Day at Duck Commander
Well I did it! I took an afternoon of work off! No worries! No cares! Just laid back fun!
I had the honor to spend an entire afternoon at the home/business of the Duck Commander, Inc. by invitation from my good friend Jeptha Robertson.
We started off our afternoon with a wonderfully cooked meal by his mother Mrs. Kay Robertson her self. Man, that woman can cook!
After lunch, Jep and I headed off to a private pond located at the end of the earth to do some fishing. We spent around five hours catching all the large-mouth bass we could handle but releasing them after each catch.
After our adventure, we headed back to my place with his wife and kids for supper. Of course we couldn't finish off the evening until we had watched the latest DuckMen video, "Relentless."
I encourage you to go to www.duckcommander.com to check out this site! They are great Christian people who use duck hunting as a platform to reach people. Believe me, they've done it!
I had the honor to spend an entire afternoon at the home/business of the Duck Commander, Inc. by invitation from my good friend Jeptha Robertson.
We started off our afternoon with a wonderfully cooked meal by his mother Mrs. Kay Robertson her self. Man, that woman can cook!
After lunch, Jep and I headed off to a private pond located at the end of the earth to do some fishing. We spent around five hours catching all the large-mouth bass we could handle but releasing them after each catch.
After our adventure, we headed back to my place with his wife and kids for supper. Of course we couldn't finish off the evening until we had watched the latest DuckMen video, "Relentless."
I encourage you to go to www.duckcommander.com to check out this site! They are great Christian people who use duck hunting as a platform to reach people. Believe me, they've done it!
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Lessons from the Tower of Babel
SIn Genesis chapter 11 we read about the famous story of the Tower of Babel. After reading this story, there are several lessons I can take from it that speaks into my life. I'll share a few of them with you.
Now a long time ago, the world only spoke one language prior to this event in time.
In Genesis chapter 11 verse 4 it says, "Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves..."
Lesson #1 Quit trying to make a name for yourself.
So many times in life we live to make ourselves known. We want to be in the spotlight, we want to get all the recognition, we want to make a name for ourselves. We go through life making our own plans and our own agenda's never seeking the council or advice of the Holy Spirit. In other words, we do our own thing!
The Bible says that Jesus was a man of no reputation. In other words, Jesus didn't go around trying to make a name for himself! The Bible says, that God lifts up the humble but brings down the proud. John the Baptist said, "He must become greater and I must become less."
God does have a way of lifting us up but only when we bring ourselves low at his feet.
LESSON #2 God may mess up your plans.
"Come let us go down and confuse thier language..." (Genesis 11:7)
When God sees that the plans we've made in our heart could stear us from his will he may come down to "confuse" those plans. He does it because he loves us not because he's "mean." Aren't you glad he's "confused" some of your plans in your life?
"Many are the plans of a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
Now a long time ago, the world only spoke one language prior to this event in time.
In Genesis chapter 11 verse 4 it says, "Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves..."
Lesson #1 Quit trying to make a name for yourself.
So many times in life we live to make ourselves known. We want to be in the spotlight, we want to get all the recognition, we want to make a name for ourselves. We go through life making our own plans and our own agenda's never seeking the council or advice of the Holy Spirit. In other words, we do our own thing!
The Bible says that Jesus was a man of no reputation. In other words, Jesus didn't go around trying to make a name for himself! The Bible says, that God lifts up the humble but brings down the proud. John the Baptist said, "He must become greater and I must become less."
God does have a way of lifting us up but only when we bring ourselves low at his feet.
LESSON #2 God may mess up your plans.
"Come let us go down and confuse thier language..." (Genesis 11:7)
When God sees that the plans we've made in our heart could stear us from his will he may come down to "confuse" those plans. He does it because he loves us not because he's "mean." Aren't you glad he's "confused" some of your plans in your life?
"Many are the plans of a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
Friday, June 09, 2006
Self-Esteem
"Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness..." (Genesis 1:26)
This past Wednesday night we discussed the topic concerning alot of teenagers today and that is self-esteem.
A recent country music song came out and it talks about how all week long some people are nobodies but the weekend is here and it's time to "get drunk and be somebody." Sad huh? Do you really think a bottle is going to make someone special? Yea, maybe for a moment but you always wake up with that same "empty" feeling inside. You don't need a bottle, or a pill, or a million dollars to make yourself feel like somebody.
Alot of teenagers find thier self worth in what other people think. They tried hard to "fit in" by doing the things necessary to do to "fit in". Insecure in themselves, they hide behind a fake laugh, a new haircut, a joint, a drink, or even in the back seat of a car.
Before we jump on the teens case, we do it ourselves as adults. Insecure of who we are in Christ, we try to "be somebody" by driving the nicest vehicles, or owning the nicest homes, or being the best dressed.
There are two questions we need to ask ourselves concerning our self-esteem.
1) How do I see myself?
2) How does God see me?
So how do you see yourself? Unimportant? Not wanted? A waste of space and air? Ugly inside? Not loved?
How does God see you? You were made in his image and he didn't make a mistake when he made you! No, he made a priceless work of art when he made you! The Bible says you were "fearfully and wonderfully made!" He put you together very carefully! There is not another you out there! In other words, God didn't make any junk! And your self worth? You were worth so much that he died for you! When is the last time someone went through what Christ went through for you? No one ever has and no one ever will!
Today, realize that you are somebody and its not because of any thing YOU have done! You are somebody because Christ loves you, died for you, and wants to have a relationship with you!
This past Wednesday night we discussed the topic concerning alot of teenagers today and that is self-esteem.
A recent country music song came out and it talks about how all week long some people are nobodies but the weekend is here and it's time to "get drunk and be somebody." Sad huh? Do you really think a bottle is going to make someone special? Yea, maybe for a moment but you always wake up with that same "empty" feeling inside. You don't need a bottle, or a pill, or a million dollars to make yourself feel like somebody.
Alot of teenagers find thier self worth in what other people think. They tried hard to "fit in" by doing the things necessary to do to "fit in". Insecure in themselves, they hide behind a fake laugh, a new haircut, a joint, a drink, or even in the back seat of a car.
Before we jump on the teens case, we do it ourselves as adults. Insecure of who we are in Christ, we try to "be somebody" by driving the nicest vehicles, or owning the nicest homes, or being the best dressed.
There are two questions we need to ask ourselves concerning our self-esteem.
1) How do I see myself?
2) How does God see me?
So how do you see yourself? Unimportant? Not wanted? A waste of space and air? Ugly inside? Not loved?
How does God see you? You were made in his image and he didn't make a mistake when he made you! No, he made a priceless work of art when he made you! The Bible says you were "fearfully and wonderfully made!" He put you together very carefully! There is not another you out there! In other words, God didn't make any junk! And your self worth? You were worth so much that he died for you! When is the last time someone went through what Christ went through for you? No one ever has and no one ever will!
Today, realize that you are somebody and its not because of any thing YOU have done! You are somebody because Christ loves you, died for you, and wants to have a relationship with you!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
KMCT Tonight
I had the honor to do something that I don't really do very often and that is to go on Christian T.V. I was invited to go on with Bro. Mike Reed of Lamb Broadcasting to talk alittle about what God is doing in and through the student ministry at Life Church. Bro. Mike and I also studied Daniel 3 to talk about the trials we go through as Christians.
"Fully Alive" will air tonight at 7:00 P.M. on KMCT.
"Fully Alive" will air tonight at 7:00 P.M. on KMCT.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Dixie Diehard Saturday
We had a great Life Church WM showing at the Biedenharn Baseball Complex in West Monroe this past Saturday for the Dixie Diehard's game.
Dixie Diehard's is a baseball leauge for kids with either physical or mental disabilities (usually both) that require the help of a "buddy" to assist him or her in playing the game. It's very humbling assisting someone that is almost totally reliable on your help and protection. These kids aren't worried about the score or how many hits they got during a game, they are only interested in having a good time. This game also gives the parents of the disabled kids a chance to be a "parent" for about two hours as they have a break while someone else is helping with thier kids.
I couldn't help but notice as I was standing out in the field with my "buddy" the baseball field next to us. The game that was being played there was quite different than the one I was involved in. I watched as "normal" kids were hitting and fielding on thier own while thier parents watched proudly in the stands. I couldn't help but wonder how that made the parents of the kids I was involved with feel. Questions like, "Why my kid?" or "I wonder what it's like to sit in those stands?" may have crossed thier minds. If it did I couldn't tell because these parents were just as proud or prouder of thier "disabled" kids.
We overheard a grandmother saying to her grandson, "It is only by God's blessing that you aren't in those other kids shoes." We were surprised to hear the grandkids response, "Grandmother, I think they are the ones that are trully blessed."
Maybe we can learn something from these very special individuals.
Thanks for a great showing Life Church!
Dixie Diehard's is a baseball leauge for kids with either physical or mental disabilities (usually both) that require the help of a "buddy" to assist him or her in playing the game. It's very humbling assisting someone that is almost totally reliable on your help and protection. These kids aren't worried about the score or how many hits they got during a game, they are only interested in having a good time. This game also gives the parents of the disabled kids a chance to be a "parent" for about two hours as they have a break while someone else is helping with thier kids.
I couldn't help but notice as I was standing out in the field with my "buddy" the baseball field next to us. The game that was being played there was quite different than the one I was involved in. I watched as "normal" kids were hitting and fielding on thier own while thier parents watched proudly in the stands. I couldn't help but wonder how that made the parents of the kids I was involved with feel. Questions like, "Why my kid?" or "I wonder what it's like to sit in those stands?" may have crossed thier minds. If it did I couldn't tell because these parents were just as proud or prouder of thier "disabled" kids.
We overheard a grandmother saying to her grandson, "It is only by God's blessing that you aren't in those other kids shoes." We were surprised to hear the grandkids response, "Grandmother, I think they are the ones that are trully blessed."
Maybe we can learn something from these very special individuals.
Thanks for a great showing Life Church!
Friday, June 02, 2006
Who can you help?
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act."
(Proverbs 3:27)
All of us have been given some measure of "power" here on earth. Even Jesus Christ told Pilate and I paraphrase, "the only power you have has been given to you from my Father in heaven."
Alot of people who have "power" abuse that power and will use it to manipulate people.
The Bible tells us "not to withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in YOUR power to act."
Who around you do you have the power to help? Financially? Spiritually? Do you have the opportunity to help someone be promoted? Do you have the power to bless someone's business? Has God prompted you to bless someone that has been faithful and deserving? If you have the power and the opportunity to do good to someone and you don't then who will?
God does good to us even when we don't deserve it so how much more should we do good to those that do?
(Proverbs 3:27)
All of us have been given some measure of "power" here on earth. Even Jesus Christ told Pilate and I paraphrase, "the only power you have has been given to you from my Father in heaven."
Alot of people who have "power" abuse that power and will use it to manipulate people.
The Bible tells us "not to withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in YOUR power to act."
Who around you do you have the power to help? Financially? Spiritually? Do you have the opportunity to help someone be promoted? Do you have the power to bless someone's business? Has God prompted you to bless someone that has been faithful and deserving? If you have the power and the opportunity to do good to someone and you don't then who will?
God does good to us even when we don't deserve it so how much more should we do good to those that do?
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Strolling through Proverbs
I've been spending alot of time in the book of Proverbs lately and I tell you what...I'm enjoying it! To me, there isn't another book in the Bible that is so relevant to our everyday life.
The next few post's, I would like to take some time to talk about a few scriptures in the book of Proverbs.
Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (or he will direct your paths)"
1. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart."
Man, that can be a tough one. If there is anyone on this earth whom we can trust can't it be God? But why is it sometimes it IS so tough to trust him? Maybe the word trust has been thrown around by other relationships we've been in. Maybe you've heard the words, "trust me" from another person and that statement hasn't meant much to you.
We are told to trust God with ALL of our heart. Not some of it. Not half of it. ALL of it! When we do, we will experience peace and joy beyond our comprehension.
2. "lean not on your own understanding."
You may be going through something in your life now and asking yourself, "Why am I going through this?" "I don't understand why this is happening." "Why did this happen to my friend?" or "Why didn't I get that big case?".
We are told not to lean on our understanding I believe because OUR own understanding is limited. In other words, we can't see the big picture, only God does! He alone knows what's best and we must trust in that!
3. "in all your ways acknowledge him"
In every area of your life we are to acknowledge God. Through the good and the bad! We are to say, "Lord, I don't know why I'm going through this but I acknowledge your presence! I acknowledge your goodness and I praise you for it!
4. "and he will direct your paths"
When we are truly trusting God in our lives and giving him full acknowledgement of every aspect we not need to worry about where our lives are headed because he is first and foremost in our lives! "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these other things will be added unto you as well." (Matt. 6:33)
The next few post's, I would like to take some time to talk about a few scriptures in the book of Proverbs.
Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (or he will direct your paths)"
1. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart."
Man, that can be a tough one. If there is anyone on this earth whom we can trust can't it be God? But why is it sometimes it IS so tough to trust him? Maybe the word trust has been thrown around by other relationships we've been in. Maybe you've heard the words, "trust me" from another person and that statement hasn't meant much to you.
We are told to trust God with ALL of our heart. Not some of it. Not half of it. ALL of it! When we do, we will experience peace and joy beyond our comprehension.
2. "lean not on your own understanding."
You may be going through something in your life now and asking yourself, "Why am I going through this?" "I don't understand why this is happening." "Why did this happen to my friend?" or "Why didn't I get that big case?".
We are told not to lean on our understanding I believe because OUR own understanding is limited. In other words, we can't see the big picture, only God does! He alone knows what's best and we must trust in that!
3. "in all your ways acknowledge him"
In every area of your life we are to acknowledge God. Through the good and the bad! We are to say, "Lord, I don't know why I'm going through this but I acknowledge your presence! I acknowledge your goodness and I praise you for it!
4. "and he will direct your paths"
When we are truly trusting God in our lives and giving him full acknowledgement of every aspect we not need to worry about where our lives are headed because he is first and foremost in our lives! "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these other things will be added unto you as well." (Matt. 6:33)
Praise you in this Storm
"That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat."
As believers we must realize that Jesus is always trying to take us places in our Christian walk. He doesn't want us "complacent" in our walk. He doesn't want us to be the same today as we were a year ago, so he must "take" us places.
"A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, dont' you care if we drown?"
As Jesus takes us places through life there will be times where we go through storms. Notice as they were going through this storm Jesus was asleep on a cushion.
Maybe you are going through a storm right now and you are asking yourself, "Does Jesus care what I'm going through?" "How can he "sleep" when I am going through this storm?" We must realize all through Jesus DOES care about what we go through he isn't "caught off guard" by it.
"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!"
Can you imagine what this scene may have looked like? Lightning! Thunder! Waves crashing over and in the boat and no Jesus waking up! Notice that none of those things woke him but when one of his children called on him...That will preach!...He woke up!
Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?
As sure as the sun comes up we can be sure we will go through storms in life but there will be a point where Jesus steps in and speaks to your storm, "Quiet! Be still!" "That's enough!" My child can take no more!"
What God would teach us through this passage I believe is we need to learn to praise him through the storms of life! We need to see that God is not only good when things are going good but God is good all the time, even when things appear to not be going good! Take heart! God is with you in your storm!
Beck
As believers we must realize that Jesus is always trying to take us places in our Christian walk. He doesn't want us "complacent" in our walk. He doesn't want us to be the same today as we were a year ago, so he must "take" us places.
"A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, dont' you care if we drown?"
As Jesus takes us places through life there will be times where we go through storms. Notice as they were going through this storm Jesus was asleep on a cushion.
Maybe you are going through a storm right now and you are asking yourself, "Does Jesus care what I'm going through?" "How can he "sleep" when I am going through this storm?" We must realize all through Jesus DOES care about what we go through he isn't "caught off guard" by it.
"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!"
Can you imagine what this scene may have looked like? Lightning! Thunder! Waves crashing over and in the boat and no Jesus waking up! Notice that none of those things woke him but when one of his children called on him...That will preach!...He woke up!
Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?
As sure as the sun comes up we can be sure we will go through storms in life but there will be a point where Jesus steps in and speaks to your storm, "Quiet! Be still!" "That's enough!" My child can take no more!"
What God would teach us through this passage I believe is we need to learn to praise him through the storms of life! We need to see that God is not only good when things are going good but God is good all the time, even when things appear to not be going good! Take heart! God is with you in your storm!
Beck
Friday, May 26, 2006
The Price for Freedom
Almost two years ago I came to a turning point in my secular career. My dad was retiring after 24 years with State Farm, five or more of those years which I worked for him, and it was time for me to make a decision. I decided to become an agent myself with the New York Life because I wanted the opportunity to "be my own boss." In other words, I wanted to be free! In charge of my own time! What many don't realize is freedom comes with a price. Yes, I'm able to hunt more, enjoy time with my wife more, and spend more time doing the things I like to do but not without a price! Hard work and unfaltering commitment must be paid for this freedom! In other words, freedom is not free!
Jesus Christ come to this earth to set us free from sin but not without a price! He paid the ultimate price by dying on a cross for our sins that we may enjoy the freedom in Christ we have now.
As we approach Memorial Day Weekend, we must remember the price that was paid for our freedom! We are to honor the dead of those who died in combat for the freedom of others! We have many brothers and sisters in Christ that have given thier lives for the sake of the gospel we need to remember as well.
Enjoy your weekend but remember the freedom with have today whether it be in Christ, in this country, or in any other area there had to be a price to pay! Be thankful!
Beck
Jesus Christ come to this earth to set us free from sin but not without a price! He paid the ultimate price by dying on a cross for our sins that we may enjoy the freedom in Christ we have now.
As we approach Memorial Day Weekend, we must remember the price that was paid for our freedom! We are to honor the dead of those who died in combat for the freedom of others! We have many brothers and sisters in Christ that have given thier lives for the sake of the gospel we need to remember as well.
Enjoy your weekend but remember the freedom with have today whether it be in Christ, in this country, or in any other area there had to be a price to pay! Be thankful!
Beck
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
House of Payne wins B-Ball Tournament!
We kicked off the Out of School service tonight with our new worship leader Ian Smith! Man, does the boy have a great voice or what? Glad to have you on board Ian!
Welp, after we wrapped up our youth service it was off to the B-Ball court for our much anticipated B-Ball Championship game! Remember, food is on the line here! (and maybe just a little pride too :)
My team, House of Payne, consisted of Cody Sinclair and Caleb Nance; two of my best buds! We took on Da Balla's who has, up to this point, been undefeated as well! We started off to a quick 5-1 lead but the lead started to fade quick. Before you knew it, the game was slipping from our hands! When it was almost said and done, the game was tied 9-9 when Caleb Nance hit a fading jump shot that won the game for us! Great job Caleb!
So next week it's off to the restaurant of our choice (on Pastor Joel of course). After the game, we were informed by Pastor Joel that the 2nd Place Balla's were going to be able to come along and enjoy a mean with us anyways. I have to say, they played hard and had a great attitude! It's gonna be a blast!
Hope the rest of your week is great and I'll talk to you guys soon!
Beck
Welp, after we wrapped up our youth service it was off to the B-Ball court for our much anticipated B-Ball Championship game! Remember, food is on the line here! (and maybe just a little pride too :)
My team, House of Payne, consisted of Cody Sinclair and Caleb Nance; two of my best buds! We took on Da Balla's who has, up to this point, been undefeated as well! We started off to a quick 5-1 lead but the lead started to fade quick. Before you knew it, the game was slipping from our hands! When it was almost said and done, the game was tied 9-9 when Caleb Nance hit a fading jump shot that won the game for us! Great job Caleb!
So next week it's off to the restaurant of our choice (on Pastor Joel of course). After the game, we were informed by Pastor Joel that the 2nd Place Balla's were going to be able to come along and enjoy a mean with us anyways. I have to say, they played hard and had a great attitude! It's gonna be a blast!
Hope the rest of your week is great and I'll talk to you guys soon!
Beck
It's Youth Night!
Welp...it's 4:37 P.M. and the youth ministry service is getting closer by the minute.
Tonight we will be discussing the topic of "Anger Management". Is it wrong to be angry? Is anger controling us or are we controling anger? What does the Bible say about anger? Well, we'll have to see tonight!
We will also be wrapping up our 3 on 3 basketball tournament tonight. My team has made it to the championship game (no it was not fixed) so I will let you know the outcome tomorrow! The winning team will get to go out to eat on and with Pastor Joel next Wednesday night! You know I'm not passing up a free meal so I will see to it my team wins! Somehow, someway :)
Tonight we will be discussing the topic of "Anger Management". Is it wrong to be angry? Is anger controling us or are we controling anger? What does the Bible say about anger? Well, we'll have to see tonight!
We will also be wrapping up our 3 on 3 basketball tournament tonight. My team has made it to the championship game (no it was not fixed) so I will let you know the outcome tomorrow! The winning team will get to go out to eat on and with Pastor Joel next Wednesday night! You know I'm not passing up a free meal so I will see to it my team wins! Somehow, someway :)
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Does God trust you?
We've all been asked the question, "Do you trust God?" but another question we need to ask ourselves is, "Does God trust me?" "What do you mean does God trust me?" "Does God trust me with what?" "Or better yet with whom?"
I once heard a preacher say the greatest priviledge to have is for God to entrust us with another human being. Who out there is trusting you? Who out there is counting on you?
Recently, I was ministering in a prison when I asked for a show of hands of all the inmates who had dreams? Amazingly, almost all of them raised their hands! But what happened? How did it end up like this? What went wrong? You see all of them had maybe God given dreams at one time (and still do) but somehow they were crushed! Maybe they lost sight! Maybe they lost focus! Maybe they gave up but nevertheless they had dreams!
Just a few weeks ago I asked all of the leaders (both adults and teens) involved in our student ministry to write down whatever it was they believed God had called them to do. In other words, write down thier God given dreams. As I read over them something inside of me lit up. I am going to do whatever I can (in my power) to help them see thier dreams come true! I am going to encourage them to stay focused on thier dreams and to come against anything that would crush thier dreams! Not to lose sight! Not to lose focus! Not to let thier lives end up in a concrete prison with crushed hopes and dreams.
You see Jesus focused on his inner circle. Not that he didn't care about the masses because he did. But the Father entrusted 12 people which he called his apostles and he spent countless hours with them. Mentoring them, leading them, teaching them, and yes rebuking them when needed. They trusted him and all gave thier lives for him but one.
Whose dream are you trying to help come true today? Who trusts you? Who looks up to you? Who looks to you for help and guidance? Is it your wife? Your kids? That employee "under" you? Make it happen and you will be the one that is successful!
Be blessed!
Beck
I once heard a preacher say the greatest priviledge to have is for God to entrust us with another human being. Who out there is trusting you? Who out there is counting on you?
Recently, I was ministering in a prison when I asked for a show of hands of all the inmates who had dreams? Amazingly, almost all of them raised their hands! But what happened? How did it end up like this? What went wrong? You see all of them had maybe God given dreams at one time (and still do) but somehow they were crushed! Maybe they lost sight! Maybe they lost focus! Maybe they gave up but nevertheless they had dreams!
Just a few weeks ago I asked all of the leaders (both adults and teens) involved in our student ministry to write down whatever it was they believed God had called them to do. In other words, write down thier God given dreams. As I read over them something inside of me lit up. I am going to do whatever I can (in my power) to help them see thier dreams come true! I am going to encourage them to stay focused on thier dreams and to come against anything that would crush thier dreams! Not to lose sight! Not to lose focus! Not to let thier lives end up in a concrete prison with crushed hopes and dreams.
You see Jesus focused on his inner circle. Not that he didn't care about the masses because he did. But the Father entrusted 12 people which he called his apostles and he spent countless hours with them. Mentoring them, leading them, teaching them, and yes rebuking them when needed. They trusted him and all gave thier lives for him but one.
Whose dream are you trying to help come true today? Who trusts you? Who looks up to you? Who looks to you for help and guidance? Is it your wife? Your kids? That employee "under" you? Make it happen and you will be the one that is successful!
Be blessed!
Beck
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Single Moms Night
Life Church West Monroe wrapped up it's Single Moms Night last night with a room full of single mothers in our area whom we wanted to honor.
Let me say this; I've been able to minister in alot of different ways and settings but this comes close to topping it all. Guys, this is what it is all about,serving people!
I had the great honor to wait "hand and foot" and to serve these ladies last night. My motto, "keep the tea glasses full!". Although, it does give you some sort of satisfaction to serve people that is not why we are to serve. We are to serve people not because it makes US feel good but because Jesus commanded us to! We are told to imitate Christ!
Guys, we can reach many people in our area by simply serving them! We reach those whom we serve! I'm all about preaching a straight forward gospel message but we need not more preachers, but far more servants.People are more out to hear what we have to say when they see how much we care and we show them how much we care by serving!
A great preacher once said, "Preach the gospel at all times...and when necessary use words!" Let's live the gospel!
Let me say this; I've been able to minister in alot of different ways and settings but this comes close to topping it all. Guys, this is what it is all about,serving people!
I had the great honor to wait "hand and foot" and to serve these ladies last night. My motto, "keep the tea glasses full!". Although, it does give you some sort of satisfaction to serve people that is not why we are to serve. We are to serve people not because it makes US feel good but because Jesus commanded us to! We are told to imitate Christ!
Guys, we can reach many people in our area by simply serving them! We reach those whom we serve! I'm all about preaching a straight forward gospel message but we need not more preachers, but far more servants.People are more out to hear what we have to say when they see how much we care and we show them how much we care by serving!
A great preacher once said, "Preach the gospel at all times...and when necessary use words!" Let's live the gospel!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Jail Ministry
"For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
I had the great honor of ministering in U.P.D.C. in Farmerville, LA again last night.
Last time we ministered in this facility we preached in what is called the D.O.C. and they already have a church established in this particular area. We decided to go in a different unit this time to have the opportunity to reach out to inmates where there is no "church" established. As the iron doors closed behind us I realized this was far from the "churchy" setting we had preached in weeks prior. We entered into the very large room of inmates greeted with rap music, inmates giving haircuts, and alot what you would see on the T.V. We made a few rounds shaking hands and talking with several of the inmates until it was time to round them up to have church. Most all of them were very attentive and wanted to hear what we had to say. After we "tag teamed" preached, mobs of them came forward for prayer and we spoke life into them.
I always realize Romans 3:23 applies to EVERYONE. We have ALL made mistakes. Thier mistakes are no different than the ones I have made. Sin is sin and it all leads to the same thing-death! We spoke to them about how God reconciled us to himself through his son Jesus Christ and that all who believed would be saved. We tried to bring hope in a hopeless place, life into a place of oppression, and encouragement to all within the sound of our voice.
I'm always thankful to go and minister there but I'm always thankful to walk out the doors. Thank you Lord for saving me.
I had the great honor of ministering in U.P.D.C. in Farmerville, LA again last night.
Last time we ministered in this facility we preached in what is called the D.O.C. and they already have a church established in this particular area. We decided to go in a different unit this time to have the opportunity to reach out to inmates where there is no "church" established. As the iron doors closed behind us I realized this was far from the "churchy" setting we had preached in weeks prior. We entered into the very large room of inmates greeted with rap music, inmates giving haircuts, and alot what you would see on the T.V. We made a few rounds shaking hands and talking with several of the inmates until it was time to round them up to have church. Most all of them were very attentive and wanted to hear what we had to say. After we "tag teamed" preached, mobs of them came forward for prayer and we spoke life into them.
I always realize Romans 3:23 applies to EVERYONE. We have ALL made mistakes. Thier mistakes are no different than the ones I have made. Sin is sin and it all leads to the same thing-death! We spoke to them about how God reconciled us to himself through his son Jesus Christ and that all who believed would be saved. We tried to bring hope in a hopeless place, life into a place of oppression, and encouragement to all within the sound of our voice.
I'm always thankful to go and minister there but I'm always thankful to walk out the doors. Thank you Lord for saving me.
Monday, May 08, 2006
The Power of Encouragement
"But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." (Hebrews 3:13)
A few years ago I was going through a tough time in my spiritual walk when my sister gave me an envelope. Inside that envelope was a card with a page filled with sentences. Now, they weren't just ordinary sentences but sentences that contained words of encouragement! After reading that card I can remember feeling so empowered and encouraged.
Why does the Bible tell us to encourage one another daily? Because I believe the enemy does his best (either through your mind or people) to beat down believers on a daily basis! He knows if he can discourage believers he can weaken them.
In Acts Chapter 4 it tells of a man by the name of Barnabas which meant "Son of Encouragement." Did you know you can have a ministry of encouragement? There are people that need encouraging on a daily basis whom YOU have the power to refresh and encourage! The words you speak to them could change their whole day, week, or possibly life! "He who refreshes others will he himself be refreshed!". If you find yourself feeling down, go find someone that needs encouragement and you might findyourself being the one encouraged!
A few years ago I was going through a tough time in my spiritual walk when my sister gave me an envelope. Inside that envelope was a card with a page filled with sentences. Now, they weren't just ordinary sentences but sentences that contained words of encouragement! After reading that card I can remember feeling so empowered and encouraged.
Why does the Bible tell us to encourage one another daily? Because I believe the enemy does his best (either through your mind or people) to beat down believers on a daily basis! He knows if he can discourage believers he can weaken them.
In Acts Chapter 4 it tells of a man by the name of Barnabas which meant "Son of Encouragement." Did you know you can have a ministry of encouragement? There are people that need encouraging on a daily basis whom YOU have the power to refresh and encourage! The words you speak to them could change their whole day, week, or possibly life! "He who refreshes others will he himself be refreshed!". If you find yourself feeling down, go find someone that needs encouragement and you might findyourself being the one encouraged!
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