"On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, "Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" (Luke 17:11-18)
In the above passage we read about Jesus Christ entering into a village where ten lepers cried out for Jesus Christ to have mercy on them. Leprosy was something that had obviously made there lives a living hell and they wanted to be freed of it. When Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests they all were cleansed of their leprosy! They were finally free! Shouldn't all of them had fallen on their face before God in worship? Shouldn't they have spent the rest of the day singing songs of thanksgiving to their Healer? Shouldn't all ten had lifted Jesus above their shoulders and carried Him through town rejoicing? Maybe they should have but we only read of "one" returning to Christ to thank Him for His goodness.
I would like to think of myself as this "one" who continually is before Jesus giving Him thanks for everything He has done in my life but honestly I may look more like the other nine. Over the Thanksgiving weekend I spent more time being like the "one" bringing thanks to my Savior for all His undeserved mercy that He has shown me.
What is it in your life that you need to be continually thankful for? Do you look like the "one" or do you better relate to the "other nine"?
Monday, November 26, 2007
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
The Cries of the Poor
"Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in their own time of need." (Proverbs 21:13)
As we enter into the time of year where giving is much more "expected" I am desiring not to just make "giving" seasonal in my own personal life but a consistent, continual lifestyle. One area I would like to see remain consistent is the giving to the poor. Notice in the above verse it refers to the "cries" of the poor. If a baby were "crying" out for help would we ignore him or her pitiful cries? How many times have the poor cried out among us for help and yet we ignored that cry? How many times have we arrogantly walked past them and turned our noses up at them as we pass them on the streets. How many self-righteous thoughts and actions have we showed by saying to ourselves, "They must be lazy" or "They probably blow it all on beer and cigarettes." How many times have we ignored the poor parents who work numerous hours to try to put food on the table for their children? I never want to hear the Lord say to my family, "Why did you hoard what I gave you upon yourselves when the poor cried out among you? How could I not trust you with the talents, gifts, and finances I so graciously poured out upon you. Did I not provide your every need? Were you not a vessel I could trust? What if one day we find ourselves in their shoes and we need the same help they do? Will we ourselves be ignored? Yes, we do become more aware of needs around us and we do tend to "give" more during the holiday seasons but what would happen if giving wasn't seasonal but a lifestyle?
As we enter into the time of year where giving is much more "expected" I am desiring not to just make "giving" seasonal in my own personal life but a consistent, continual lifestyle. One area I would like to see remain consistent is the giving to the poor. Notice in the above verse it refers to the "cries" of the poor. If a baby were "crying" out for help would we ignore him or her pitiful cries? How many times have the poor cried out among us for help and yet we ignored that cry? How many times have we arrogantly walked past them and turned our noses up at them as we pass them on the streets. How many self-righteous thoughts and actions have we showed by saying to ourselves, "They must be lazy" or "They probably blow it all on beer and cigarettes." How many times have we ignored the poor parents who work numerous hours to try to put food on the table for their children? I never want to hear the Lord say to my family, "Why did you hoard what I gave you upon yourselves when the poor cried out among you? How could I not trust you with the talents, gifts, and finances I so graciously poured out upon you. Did I not provide your every need? Were you not a vessel I could trust? What if one day we find ourselves in their shoes and we need the same help they do? Will we ourselves be ignored? Yes, we do become more aware of needs around us and we do tend to "give" more during the holiday seasons but what would happen if giving wasn't seasonal but a lifestyle?
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Family Matters
"As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)
Tonight we will begin a two week series in our student ministry entitled, "Family Matters." We live in a society where the sacred family bond has been attacked and even mocked what God has ordained. For us to begin impacting the world the way we are called to we first must impact our homes. Strong homes build strong churches! What we must realize is that family does matter to God and what takes place in the home will matter for eternity! We are determined to equip, train, and raise up a generation of young people who will become Godly fathers, mothers, husbands, and wives for the kingdom of God! First, we must first live in front of them how a Godly father, mother, husband, or wife should act! Family ministry isn't too popular or attractive in the traditional usual youth ministry setting but we aren't striving to be usual or traditional! We are striving to break the mold and have a family focused student ministry!
Please pray for our student ministry team as we embark on these next few weeks of teaching,training, and loving our students!
Tonight we will begin a two week series in our student ministry entitled, "Family Matters." We live in a society where the sacred family bond has been attacked and even mocked what God has ordained. For us to begin impacting the world the way we are called to we first must impact our homes. Strong homes build strong churches! What we must realize is that family does matter to God and what takes place in the home will matter for eternity! We are determined to equip, train, and raise up a generation of young people who will become Godly fathers, mothers, husbands, and wives for the kingdom of God! First, we must first live in front of them how a Godly father, mother, husband, or wife should act! Family ministry isn't too popular or attractive in the traditional usual youth ministry setting but we aren't striving to be usual or traditional! We are striving to break the mold and have a family focused student ministry!
Please pray for our student ministry team as we embark on these next few weeks of teaching,training, and loving our students!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The Priceless Value of Knowing Christ
"Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infininte value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." (Philippians 3:8)
My wife and I were spending time with each other this Sunday evening when our attention was drawn to another family at the recreation area in which we were visiting. We saw several adults ( I'm assuming parents) along with several kids kicking the ball and playing together. My wife responded by saying, "There is nothing you could buy those kids that would take the place of that right there." Spending quality time with those young people you love will be implanted in their little hearts forever! The memories that were made that Sunday afternoon would be priceless!
When we compare everything this world would offer us to that of knowing Christ there is no comparison! When we compare anything in this world to our relationship with Christ the things of this world then appear to be worthless-rubbish. There is nothing in this world that could compare to or take the place of the priceless value of knowing Christ. Sadly, in the church world we live in many have "traded in" that value of knowing Christ to pursue money, pleasure, and the things of this world. How could we trade in such a priceless ruby (our relationship with Christ) for something so temporal (the things of this world). Today, guard your relationship with Christ at all cost for it is truly a priceless commodity!
My wife and I were spending time with each other this Sunday evening when our attention was drawn to another family at the recreation area in which we were visiting. We saw several adults ( I'm assuming parents) along with several kids kicking the ball and playing together. My wife responded by saying, "There is nothing you could buy those kids that would take the place of that right there." Spending quality time with those young people you love will be implanted in their little hearts forever! The memories that were made that Sunday afternoon would be priceless!
When we compare everything this world would offer us to that of knowing Christ there is no comparison! When we compare anything in this world to our relationship with Christ the things of this world then appear to be worthless-rubbish. There is nothing in this world that could compare to or take the place of the priceless value of knowing Christ. Sadly, in the church world we live in many have "traded in" that value of knowing Christ to pursue money, pleasure, and the things of this world. How could we trade in such a priceless ruby (our relationship with Christ) for something so temporal (the things of this world). Today, guard your relationship with Christ at all cost for it is truly a priceless commodity!
Monday, October 29, 2007
What a weekend!
One of my greatest passions in life is deer hunting. Over the past few weeks I have not been able to go much at all but the time finally came when I was able to this past Saturday. I was able to harvest a doe during my morning hunt and had a big surprise when a couple of hogs came out in the evening. It is truly refreshing to me to be able to have that "away time" from everything and just be with God in His creation.
Family Nights are one of my favorite nights of the month here at Family Church. There is not another group of people I would rather spend my time with than those who God has placed closest to me-my family. Jodi, Gracen, and myself went out to Prarion Recreation Center where we strolled the baby around and enjoyed the nice weather. Jodi and I discussed some of the most joyful and challenging times we've faced the past five years of our lives. We also cast vision and dreamed together about the next five years of our lives. Jodi and I noticed another family playing ball out in the grass in the recreation area. Jodi said to me, "There is not a thing you could give those kids that money could buy that would replace that right there." (the time being spent with family making memories)
Our Fall Festival is this Wednesday Night here at Family Church and then Jodi and I are off to Gulf Shores for a weekend wedding! I pray you have a blessed week!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
That's a wrap...
Doug Fields brought a tremendous message last night on "Envy". He preached out of Genesis and shared the story of Josepeh and how his brothers "envied him." Envy is dangerous to our soul and ministries. How many times have you commented on another church because they "do things differently?Maybe they have something you "want" or wish you possessed! Do you find yourself envious of that co-worker because he/she spends more time with the Pastor or boss? Do you find yourself envious of someone else because of the success they are having in ministry? We as Christians and yes as church leaders can be as guilty as anyone! How many reputations have we "murdered" with our tongues because of envy?
So how do we protect ourselves from envy? Guard your heart by celebrating with others! When someone preaches a good message-pat them on the back. If someone gets promoted within the church or job-congratulate them! Refuse to be "sucked" in by envy!
The convention wraps up Monday morning but Jodi and I will be flying back in the morning.
Have a great Sunday evening!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Convention Pics...
Tonight the David Crowder Band led a standing room only crowd of youth pastors and youth workers into some dynamic worship. Following worship the "Veggie Tales" creator brought a fantastic message that really challenged my life. Below (from left to right) are pictures of the David Crowder Band, me infront of the entrance to the convention center, and a cool view of the pool area where we are staying.
What an honor to be around a bunch of men and women who are passionate about pouring the life of God into young people!
What an honor to be around a bunch of men and women who are passionate about pouring the life of God into young people!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
National Youth Workers Conference
After a long Wednesday at Family Church we wrapped up another night of student ministry on our current series "Hooked" which deals with temptation. Directly after service my wife Jodi and I drove over to Jackson, Mississippi where we arrived about midnight. We got about four hours of rest then flew out at 6:15 A.M. headed to San Diego, California for the National Youth Workers Conference. I'm excited about "getting equipped" and also having the opportunity to spend several days with my beautiful bride!
I'll update as often as I'm able.
Blessings!
Beck
Friday, October 05, 2007
If you love me...
Jesus replied, "All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them. Anyone who doesn't love me will not obey me." (John 14:23-24)
Jesus tells it like it is when He said, "All who love me will do what I say." To say, "I love Jesus!" and yet not do what the word of God commands makes us out to be a liar! Don't say you love Jesus and not do what He says. To love Jesus means to do what He says-everything He says! Not just bits and pieces of His word that we agree with or parts that line up with our particular denomination. To love Jesus means to obey EVERYTHING He says! Let us not just say we love Jesus but let us prove it by the way we live!
Update: Pastor Mike Perkins of Nations Harvest was our guest speaker this week at Claiborne Christian School's Junior/Senior High Chapel. He brought a very timely and challenging word! Many, many young people were touched and ministered to during Wednesday's service. Thanks Mike for bringing the word of God! I'm blessed to call you friend.
Have a great week!
Beck
Jesus tells it like it is when He said, "All who love me will do what I say." To say, "I love Jesus!" and yet not do what the word of God commands makes us out to be a liar! Don't say you love Jesus and not do what He says. To love Jesus means to do what He says-everything He says! Not just bits and pieces of His word that we agree with or parts that line up with our particular denomination. To love Jesus means to obey EVERYTHING He says! Let us not just say we love Jesus but let us prove it by the way we live!
Update: Pastor Mike Perkins of Nations Harvest was our guest speaker this week at Claiborne Christian School's Junior/Senior High Chapel. He brought a very timely and challenging word! Many, many young people were touched and ministered to during Wednesday's service. Thanks Mike for bringing the word of God! I'm blessed to call you friend.
Have a great week!
Beck
Friday, September 28, 2007
A quiet place of rest...
Wow! Boy, when God answered my hearts desire of full-time ministry, he answered it! I never in my life would have imagined the craziness of it all! I knew this week was going to be even more time consuming for me than they already are so now it is time for rest.
"The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat." (Mark 6:30-31)
When the apostles were giving an account to Jesus concerning their ministry tour they were "spent." Jesus lead a busy life but he also knew the importance of rest. He said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." When people, events, and things are pulling you at every direction there comes a time when you need to find a quiet place and rest ahile.
So what about you? Have you been working hard for the kingdom and need a break? Even Jesus knew the importance of leading His apostles to rest. Is He leading you?
My wife and I will leave this afternoon for a short rest to a quiet place to celebrate our "5th Wedding Anniversary." We are going to rest. I pray you have the opportunity to rest too.
God Bless your soul.
Beck
"The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile. He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat." (Mark 6:30-31)
When the apostles were giving an account to Jesus concerning their ministry tour they were "spent." Jesus lead a busy life but he also knew the importance of rest. He said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." When people, events, and things are pulling you at every direction there comes a time when you need to find a quiet place and rest ahile.
So what about you? Have you been working hard for the kingdom and need a break? Even Jesus knew the importance of leading His apostles to rest. Is He leading you?
My wife and I will leave this afternoon for a short rest to a quiet place to celebrate our "5th Wedding Anniversary." We are going to rest. I pray you have the opportunity to rest too.
God Bless your soul.
Beck
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Three Night Intensive
We have been having a three night intensive led by our Pastor, Michael O'Neal, on the subject of "Being Guided by the Holy Spirit." Tonight he will conclude the intensive as he teaches on the "Seven Spirits of God."
We will be having our own intensive tonight in the student ministry and the Carey Amos band will be here to led our students in worship as well.
Tomorrow I have the humbling opportunity to speak to our "Prime Time" ministry (senior adults) on the subject of "Spiritual Sons and Daughters." I am humbled and looking forward to it!
Construction has begun on our home renovation project. The men who are working on it have been working hard and non-stop to get this completed by the holidays. We are blessed to have people in our lives to help get the job done.
This Friday, my wife and I celebrate our "5th Wedding Anniversary." I can't even begin to describe to you how excited I am about that. We will celebrate out of town at a "Bed and Breakfast."
Have a wonderful week and God Bless!
We will be having our own intensive tonight in the student ministry and the Carey Amos band will be here to led our students in worship as well.
Tomorrow I have the humbling opportunity to speak to our "Prime Time" ministry (senior adults) on the subject of "Spiritual Sons and Daughters." I am humbled and looking forward to it!
Construction has begun on our home renovation project. The men who are working on it have been working hard and non-stop to get this completed by the holidays. We are blessed to have people in our lives to help get the job done.
This Friday, my wife and I celebrate our "5th Wedding Anniversary." I can't even begin to describe to you how excited I am about that. We will celebrate out of town at a "Bed and Breakfast."
Have a wonderful week and God Bless!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Family
"I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected-even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me. But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands." (Exodus 20:5b-6) NLT
To know that my sin WILL affect my childrens, childrens, children causes me to shudder. We must realize the importance of our actions knowing that they not only affect us but future generations.
"He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church." (I. Timothy 3:4-5)
God places so much emphasis on the family that he places it even before ministry in His church. If we have no "ministry" at home we have no ministry!
To know that my sin WILL affect my childrens, childrens, children causes me to shudder. We must realize the importance of our actions knowing that they not only affect us but future generations.
"He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God's church." (I. Timothy 3:4-5)
God places so much emphasis on the family that he places it even before ministry in His church. If we have no "ministry" at home we have no ministry!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Pouring In then Pouring Out
“But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.” (Phil. 2:17-18)
“…I’m being poured out like a drink offering…”
One thing I strive to do each and every day of my life is to pour out the life of God that is in me into other people. I strive to pour the life of God into students, teenagers, those around me, my family, and just people in general. However, there are two things we must realize before this takes place:
1) You cannot pour into others what you have not first allowed God to pour into you.
· If you are not making deposits into your own life when those around you begin to make withdrawals you will be “used up” because you have nothing to give.
· You make “deposits” by allowing God to pour into you. Seek Him daily by being still, reading his word, and spending time in his presence worshiping Him.
2) You can’t give others what you don’t have yourself.
· If you aren’t full of the love of Christ then you can’t go out and spread that love. You can’t give what you don’t have. You can spread what you don’t possess.
Before we can pour into others we must allow God to pour into our lives by spending time with Him!
“…I’m being poured out like a drink offering…”
One thing I strive to do each and every day of my life is to pour out the life of God that is in me into other people. I strive to pour the life of God into students, teenagers, those around me, my family, and just people in general. However, there are two things we must realize before this takes place:
1) You cannot pour into others what you have not first allowed God to pour into you.
· If you are not making deposits into your own life when those around you begin to make withdrawals you will be “used up” because you have nothing to give.
· You make “deposits” by allowing God to pour into you. Seek Him daily by being still, reading his word, and spending time in his presence worshiping Him.
2) You can’t give others what you don’t have yourself.
· If you aren’t full of the love of Christ then you can’t go out and spread that love. You can’t give what you don’t have. You can spread what you don’t possess.
Before we can pour into others we must allow God to pour into our lives by spending time with Him!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Never too early...
"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!"
(Psalm 127:3-5)
This past weekend we had a lot going on between the church and youth ministry but there was one thing that took place that took priority over them all-a daddy daughter date. My little girl Gracen is only 14 months old but I believe I can never start to early "dating" her.
Over the past few years I've seen and learned from many other ministers mistakes of neglecting family in the name of Christ or for "ministry." The Bible says "how can you manage the church if you can't manage your home?" I am determined with the help of the Lord to show my little girl the love and attention she needs so that she won't have to find it somewhere else. I don't want to spend so much time "ministering to others" that I don't take the time to "minister to my family."
My wife dressed Gracen and then I took her out to our favorite place to eat-McAllisters. We took turns feeding each other and we had the best time visiting outside.
I encourage you this week to take the time to "minister" and love on those closest to you-family.
Have a great week!
(Psalm 127:3-5)
This past weekend we had a lot going on between the church and youth ministry but there was one thing that took place that took priority over them all-a daddy daughter date. My little girl Gracen is only 14 months old but I believe I can never start to early "dating" her.
Over the past few years I've seen and learned from many other ministers mistakes of neglecting family in the name of Christ or for "ministry." The Bible says "how can you manage the church if you can't manage your home?" I am determined with the help of the Lord to show my little girl the love and attention she needs so that she won't have to find it somewhere else. I don't want to spend so much time "ministering to others" that I don't take the time to "minister to my family."
My wife dressed Gracen and then I took her out to our favorite place to eat-McAllisters. We took turns feeding each other and we had the best time visiting outside.
I encourage you this week to take the time to "minister" and love on those closest to you-family.
Have a great week!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Rollin...Rollin...Rollin...
I hope and pray everyone had a wonderful Labor Day. To say mine was interesting would be an understatement but we won't get in to all what went down.
My brother-in-law Josh Hutson spoke at both Jr. and Sr. High CCS Chapel Service's yesterday on "Serving". He is a wonderful young man of God who is pursuing the call of God on his life.
We had over 120 students and volunteers last night in our E3 Student Ministry Service. Worship was powerful and we continued on our current series "Locker Room Talk."
I will be carrying our 8th grade students from CCS to Grace Place Ministries in downtown Monroe this upcoming Wednesday. A group from Family Church cooks and serves lunch there every Wednesday. The students will be applying what they've learned about serving these past few weeks in Chapel. The word says in the book of James, "Be doers of the word not hearers only deceiving yourselves." If we don't apply what we hear from God's word we are deceived!
We are set to close on our house today and have the money by next Tuesday for the major remodeling that will take place. Please be in prayer for my family and I as we take on this next major project. It is very exciting but very consuming as well.
Have a great week!
My brother-in-law Josh Hutson spoke at both Jr. and Sr. High CCS Chapel Service's yesterday on "Serving". He is a wonderful young man of God who is pursuing the call of God on his life.
We had over 120 students and volunteers last night in our E3 Student Ministry Service. Worship was powerful and we continued on our current series "Locker Room Talk."
I will be carrying our 8th grade students from CCS to Grace Place Ministries in downtown Monroe this upcoming Wednesday. A group from Family Church cooks and serves lunch there every Wednesday. The students will be applying what they've learned about serving these past few weeks in Chapel. The word says in the book of James, "Be doers of the word not hearers only deceiving yourselves." If we don't apply what we hear from God's word we are deceived!
We are set to close on our house today and have the money by next Tuesday for the major remodeling that will take place. Please be in prayer for my family and I as we take on this next major project. It is very exciting but very consuming as well.
Have a great week!
Friday, August 31, 2007
Spiritual B-Day
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2Cor.5:17)
When you think of your most memorable birthday what comes to mind? A particular party you were given? A new car? A special card someone wrote and gave you?
I can remember the most memorable birthday I ever had and it had nothing to do with a new car, a card, or anything like that. This gift was different and it was special. As a matter of fact, I can remember when I was born-actually born-again. Ten years ago today I received the gift of salvation given to me from Jesus Christ. Ever since that "spiritual birthday" I've never been the same. I've had my "ups and downs", victories and defeats, but Christ has given me the strength to continue on triumphantly.
What about you? Have you received that gift? Have you forgotten about that gift? Do you still appreciate that gift?
Thank you Jesus for changing my life ten years ago!
When you think of your most memorable birthday what comes to mind? A particular party you were given? A new car? A special card someone wrote and gave you?
I can remember the most memorable birthday I ever had and it had nothing to do with a new car, a card, or anything like that. This gift was different and it was special. As a matter of fact, I can remember when I was born-actually born-again. Ten years ago today I received the gift of salvation given to me from Jesus Christ. Ever since that "spiritual birthday" I've never been the same. I've had my "ups and downs", victories and defeats, but Christ has given me the strength to continue on triumphantly.
What about you? Have you received that gift? Have you forgotten about that gift? Do you still appreciate that gift?
Thank you Jesus for changing my life ten years ago!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Sharing of Resources
“All the believers were agreed in heart and mind. They didn't claim that anything they had was their own. They shared everything they owned. With great power the apostles continued their teaching. They gave witness that the Lord Jesus had risen from the dead. And they were greatly blessed by God. There were no needy persons among them. From time to time, those who owned land or houses sold them. They brought the money from the sales. They put it down at the apostles' feet. It was then given out to anyone who needed it.” (Acts 4:32-34)
Did you notice in the above passage that in the early church we read about in Acts there were “no needy persons among them.” Why was that? And why don’t we see that today? The reason there were “no needy among them” was because nobody claimed that their possessions were there own! How far have we come from that day in time? Quiet the opposite! We see popular Christian TV where people are literally braggin about there “big houses, cars, horses, and so and and so on! Guess what? It’s not yours, its Gods and we must give an account of how we used our resources to help others!
Earlier in the year my family was given a prophetic word during a very difficult transition in our lives. We were told to write down the date of this particular day the word was given because one year from then we would look back and be amazed at what God has done! Well guys, we are barely 6 months from that word and let me share with you what God had done. He has placed me in full-time ministry at a phenomenal God-fearing church. He has allowed Jodi to minister at home with our daughter plus allow her to be on staff with me here at church. Many of you know that God gave us a small house and 8 ½ acreas 5 years ago. It is a private beautiful place out in the country but the living conditions aren’t the best. As a matter of fact many living in different countries have lived better. With a 90 year old house come 90 year old problems. We have not had central air/heat for the past 5 years. God spoke to some young brothers/sisters within our small group and they have blessed us with not only central air/heat but we wil begin soon on renovating our entire house! Praise be to God! I wish I had the time to testify about all the great things God has done! Great is His faithfulness!
What if we were a church (as a whole) with no “needy” among us because the giving and sharing of our resources were so great? I’m honored to be apart of a body where there is an abundance of giving done “quietly” and without letting the “left hand no what the right is doing.”
Did you notice in the above passage that in the early church we read about in Acts there were “no needy persons among them.” Why was that? And why don’t we see that today? The reason there were “no needy among them” was because nobody claimed that their possessions were there own! How far have we come from that day in time? Quiet the opposite! We see popular Christian TV where people are literally braggin about there “big houses, cars, horses, and so and and so on! Guess what? It’s not yours, its Gods and we must give an account of how we used our resources to help others!
Earlier in the year my family was given a prophetic word during a very difficult transition in our lives. We were told to write down the date of this particular day the word was given because one year from then we would look back and be amazed at what God has done! Well guys, we are barely 6 months from that word and let me share with you what God had done. He has placed me in full-time ministry at a phenomenal God-fearing church. He has allowed Jodi to minister at home with our daughter plus allow her to be on staff with me here at church. Many of you know that God gave us a small house and 8 ½ acreas 5 years ago. It is a private beautiful place out in the country but the living conditions aren’t the best. As a matter of fact many living in different countries have lived better. With a 90 year old house come 90 year old problems. We have not had central air/heat for the past 5 years. God spoke to some young brothers/sisters within our small group and they have blessed us with not only central air/heat but we wil begin soon on renovating our entire house! Praise be to God! I wish I had the time to testify about all the great things God has done! Great is His faithfulness!
What if we were a church (as a whole) with no “needy” among us because the giving and sharing of our resources were so great? I’m honored to be apart of a body where there is an abundance of giving done “quietly” and without letting the “left hand no what the right is doing.”
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Doing more yet becoming less
"As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, while listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:38-42)
Far too many of us resemble Martha than we do Mary. We live in such a fast pace world that we hardly take the time to just stop, rest, and listen. It was said that Martha was "distracted" by the big dinner she was preparing. What was she distracted from? What really mattered! She was distracted from sitting at her Lord's feet! Yes, she was doing important things! I mean, someone had to make the meal right? Someone had to do all the "ministry" and work right? When she complained to Jesus he responded to her by saying, "You are worried and upset over all these details. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it." So what was it Mary discovered? The right time and place to sit at the Lord's feet-to listen! If we aren't careful the noises of this life will choke out the voice of the Lord! Even in ministry we take pride in being "busy" and doing so many "good" things. We must remember our first ministry is upward before it is outward! It is unto God before it is unto man! The great commandment comes before the great commission! Please help us Lord not to be so busy doing more that we start becoming less of the man or woman of God you have called us to be. Help us to be good stewards of our time. Help us to know when to say "no". Help us God to slow down or even stop so we can make sure we don't miss what trully matters-spending time listening to you.
Far too many of us resemble Martha than we do Mary. We live in such a fast pace world that we hardly take the time to just stop, rest, and listen. It was said that Martha was "distracted" by the big dinner she was preparing. What was she distracted from? What really mattered! She was distracted from sitting at her Lord's feet! Yes, she was doing important things! I mean, someone had to make the meal right? Someone had to do all the "ministry" and work right? When she complained to Jesus he responded to her by saying, "You are worried and upset over all these details. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it." So what was it Mary discovered? The right time and place to sit at the Lord's feet-to listen! If we aren't careful the noises of this life will choke out the voice of the Lord! Even in ministry we take pride in being "busy" and doing so many "good" things. We must remember our first ministry is upward before it is outward! It is unto God before it is unto man! The great commandment comes before the great commission! Please help us Lord not to be so busy doing more that we start becoming less of the man or woman of God you have called us to be. Help us to be good stewards of our time. Help us to know when to say "no". Help us God to slow down or even stop so we can make sure we don't miss what trully matters-spending time listening to you.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Church alive and well
It has been so good to be back to my "roots" here on this campus. To be apart of Claiborne Christian School and Family Church is such a very humbling opportunity.
This past Sunday Family Church celebrated 30 years of ministry (1977-2007) since Pastor Michael and Vicki O'Neal first accepted the call to pastor a small church in West Monroe. It had been around only eight years earlier (1969) and had already seen five different pastors. When Pastor O'Neal took over there were only 23 members but the resulting growth is unbelievable. Family Church now sits at 1,245 members and continues to grown in health and size.
Family Church is a church that is dedicated to becoming fully devoted disciples of Christ and puts a tremendous focus on the family which we believe is truly at the heart of God. It is a church that has not swayed, shifted, or moved from the pure word of God. It is a church that is dedicated to staying focused on eternal things, to love people, to be devoted to prayer and the word of God, to bridle the tounge, to pursue God with passion, to raise up Godly families, and be given to the work of God! It is an exciting body to be apart of!
Sunday morning was a celebration of what all GOD has done in people's lives the past 30 years and what He is going to do the next 7-10 years. The presence of God was so very strong in the service! I encourage you to go watch the service at www.familychurch.org You can go to family media to watch it.
Have a great week!
This past Sunday Family Church celebrated 30 years of ministry (1977-2007) since Pastor Michael and Vicki O'Neal first accepted the call to pastor a small church in West Monroe. It had been around only eight years earlier (1969) and had already seen five different pastors. When Pastor O'Neal took over there were only 23 members but the resulting growth is unbelievable. Family Church now sits at 1,245 members and continues to grown in health and size.
Family Church is a church that is dedicated to becoming fully devoted disciples of Christ and puts a tremendous focus on the family which we believe is truly at the heart of God. It is a church that has not swayed, shifted, or moved from the pure word of God. It is a church that is dedicated to staying focused on eternal things, to love people, to be devoted to prayer and the word of God, to bridle the tounge, to pursue God with passion, to raise up Godly families, and be given to the work of God! It is an exciting body to be apart of!
Sunday morning was a celebration of what all GOD has done in people's lives the past 30 years and what He is going to do the next 7-10 years. The presence of God was so very strong in the service! I encourage you to go watch the service at www.familychurch.org You can go to family media to watch it.
Have a great week!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Crazy Start!
Okay, my head is spinning very fast now! The past two weeks of my life has been extremely busy. This past Monday Claiborne Christian School started which means I got underway teaching 6th and 8th grade Bible. As of next week the school will also start chapel services which I have the honor of leading as campus pastor. I'm excited to see what God has in store for the next year.
Monday morning I was able to have breakfast with one of my most favorite people in the world-Pastor Michael O'Neal. I have never in my life been around someone that lives and preaches as closely to the word of God than that man of God does. He is trully one of my "heros". I soak up every word that comes out of his mouth because wisdom flows from it.
Today the high school goes to Jimmie Davis State Park on Caney Lake where we will have a three day spiritual retreat to begin the school year. I will have the honor of speaking to them during Thursday night's service.
Tonight, we will have our first service @ E3 Student Ministries of Family Church to kick of the new school year as well. We are excited about having the new junior high students attend for the first time!
This Sunday we will have a special service at Family Church. We will be celebrating what God has done and the lives He has changed since he brought Pastor Michael and Mrs. Vicki O'Neal to Family Church thiry years ago. I will have the wonderful and humbling opportunity to share a little of my story on how God changed my life ten years ago at CCS. We are excited to be apart of what God is going to do in and through Family Church the next ten years.
Being able to focus on the kingdom full-time now has fulfilled me more than words can express. Being able to focus everyday on influencing the lives of young people will matter for eternity.
This Sunday night I have the opportunity to influence the people that matter most to me-Jodi and Gracen. He has blessed me with a beautiful daughter and wife to enjoy this journey we call life.
Have a great week!
Monday morning I was able to have breakfast with one of my most favorite people in the world-Pastor Michael O'Neal. I have never in my life been around someone that lives and preaches as closely to the word of God than that man of God does. He is trully one of my "heros". I soak up every word that comes out of his mouth because wisdom flows from it.
Today the high school goes to Jimmie Davis State Park on Caney Lake where we will have a three day spiritual retreat to begin the school year. I will have the honor of speaking to them during Thursday night's service.
Tonight, we will have our first service @ E3 Student Ministries of Family Church to kick of the new school year as well. We are excited about having the new junior high students attend for the first time!
This Sunday we will have a special service at Family Church. We will be celebrating what God has done and the lives He has changed since he brought Pastor Michael and Mrs. Vicki O'Neal to Family Church thiry years ago. I will have the wonderful and humbling opportunity to share a little of my story on how God changed my life ten years ago at CCS. We are excited to be apart of what God is going to do in and through Family Church the next ten years.
Being able to focus on the kingdom full-time now has fulfilled me more than words can express. Being able to focus everyday on influencing the lives of young people will matter for eternity.
This Sunday night I have the opportunity to influence the people that matter most to me-Jodi and Gracen. He has blessed me with a beautiful daughter and wife to enjoy this journey we call life.
Have a great week!
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