Have to make this quick, because I'm in an internet cafe. This is a short summary of everything I've been doing here in Yavatmal, India.
December 8th. We visited a single village at night. We had a small service, and a few of us shared our testimonies. The true blessing was to have the family pray for us. Three generations of believers in a village is breath-taking. The grandfather, the head, shared his testimony with us. It was so powerful. God has blessed his family so much. Before he came to Christ, he only owned 5 acres of land for farming. Now, after over 15 years of staying faithful to God, he now has over 20 acres, with his own tractor.
December 9th, my group went to four villages. The first one, Krishnapeth, had a newly developed house church. We visited wih the family, took a few pictures (cant post any due to being in an internet cafe), sang some songs, prayed for the daughter who was about to get married, and for the mother's husband that has been an alcoholic for a long time. The second village, Sawaikhad, had a fairly large population of both Christians and Hindus. The head of the village/police is a very devoted Christian. They served us some great Indian food, and we had a short service. The third village, Old Dhamangon, has many believers. We performed a few dramas for the children. The fourth village, Arvi, was a major blessing. It's an outcast village for hunting and eating a lot of meat (You'd have to understand the culture here in India to understand why they're outcasts). It's one of the most unreached people groups in India. There's no affirmative action here, they aren't recognized by the government, and they aren't aloud to go to school or have jobs. We had a massive prayer rally there. The people are so amazing. They remind me of National Geography wild. They had a sort of wild feeling about them. To be honest, they are the most beautiful group of people I've seen in India.
December 10. The fifth village, Chees, is a fairly poor village with not a lot of believers. They have many children. The sixth village, Borgaon, had even more children, and seemed even more poor that Chees. The seventh village, Banayat, was amazing. We sang some songs for the poeple, but the most incredible part was them singing for us. They performed several traditional songs with traditional instruments. I recorded most of it. I will post it on youtube when I get back to Taiwan. Most of the people are Hindi, but there are Christians there making a massive impact. One of the boys, 12 years old, there was heavy possessed by a demon. I didn't get to see him, but the pastor there told me that they were able to set the boy free (from what I understood). He wouldn't wear any clothes, and only ate grass and leaves since birth. Now he wants to wear clothes and is starting to eat normal food.
Today, Decemeber 11. We went to one village, don't have the name of it yet, to teach about 40 new believers a bible overview. Bogi, Vince, Cornelius, and me taught the bible overview in about 1.5 hours. We then performed some songs, and ate an amazing dinner. The people there also sang to us, and it was so beautiful.
This is all I can write right now. I'll post more when I get a break one day. ;-)
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
My Supplier, My Desire
The time came for my finances for DTS to be due. I was still short about $1500USD, and I had exhausted all my options (or so I thought). The finances were due 8 days ago (Friday November 14) at midnight. I went into intercessory prayer at 7pm that night, and the next thing I knew it was 10:30pm. Having being exhausted, and burned out from praying, fasting, and worshiping, I decided to head to bed. At about 11:30pm Josh, head DTS leader, called me to let me know all my finances had come in.
While worshiping God had spoken to me about my finances. He asked me if I was willing to give up the rest of my earthly belongings (MAC, iPod, iPhone, Nintendo DS). I fought the idea for a while, but finally called Josh and asked him to send out a base-wide YWAM email telling everybody my MAC and iPhone were up for sale. I got a phone call later from Josh telling me Dane Myers was interested in buying my MAC, and that he and his wife were in the process of praying about it. I hung up the phone and broke down. I cried out to God for guidance and comfort. They never called back.
I now know that God was testing me. I promised to give up everything on His command to follow Him. He wasn't doing it to see what I would do. He already knew what I would do. But it was a test for me. It showed me exactly where my priorities were, and it was such an exciting moment. I am who I say I am. I'm a follower of Christ. One that doesn't put anything in front of God. One that gets humbled every day by the grace of God. I'm forever changed, and the enemy will never take my faith away...
While worshiping God had spoken to me about my finances. He asked me if I was willing to give up the rest of my earthly belongings (MAC, iPod, iPhone, Nintendo DS). I fought the idea for a while, but finally called Josh and asked him to send out a base-wide YWAM email telling everybody my MAC and iPhone were up for sale. I got a phone call later from Josh telling me Dane Myers was interested in buying my MAC, and that he and his wife were in the process of praying about it. I hung up the phone and broke down. I cried out to God for guidance and comfort. They never called back.
I now know that God was testing me. I promised to give up everything on His command to follow Him. He wasn't doing it to see what I would do. He already knew what I would do. But it was a test for me. It showed me exactly where my priorities were, and it was such an exciting moment. I am who I say I am. I'm a follower of Christ. One that doesn't put anything in front of God. One that gets humbled every day by the grace of God. I'm forever changed, and the enemy will never take my faith away...
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Truly Giving Everything
God has been really moving in my life since I decided to trust in Him with my finances (read previous blog). To be honest, I prayed a really dangerous prayer that caused me to not realize that when I told God I was willing to give up every He would do it. Wednesday night, the charger to my Mac overheated and it completely stopped working. Therefore, I couldn't charge/use my computer. And of course, this happens after I release all my finances to God. Thursday I was able to get the charger to charge the computer fully, but I tried to recharge it after class and it wouldn't.
Friday morning I woke up so mad at God that I skipped my quiet-time. We had worship at the DTS classroom at 9:30, and I went just wanting to get it over with. The very first song started, and I broke down. I honestly didn't realize I was being bitter towards God until that point. I realized then that God was testing me if I was truly willing to give up EVERYTHING to follow Him. I cried, and cried, and cried, confessed my sins, cried some more, and confessed even more.
Conviction is such a powerful tool, and oh such a blessing from God. I officially gave it all to God Friday morning, not even longing for God to replace anything in my life physically. While sitting at my home during lunch Friday afternoon Janet (fellow DTS student from Taiwan) came up to me and handed me money to buy a new charger. I just couldn't believe it. She told me that God showed her that I was spending too much time on my computer when I should be spending it growing in His Word. God told her it was a message from Him to not only be joyful when He gives and takes away, but be longing to seek Him first and foremost.
I'm so glad I decided to listen to God, instead of man, take a leap of faith, even if I didn't have all the finances for DTS, and give up everything to follow HIM and come to DTS in Taiwan. I've learned so much about God (His character, love, mercy, grace, wrath, holiness, etc), myself (faith, beliefs, etc), and the world (biblical world view) in these 8 short weeks than I have ever learned going to church, reading the bible, or going to small group. God Bless Taiwan, YWAM, And DTS!!!!!!
Friday morning I woke up so mad at God that I skipped my quiet-time. We had worship at the DTS classroom at 9:30, and I went just wanting to get it over with. The very first song started, and I broke down. I honestly didn't realize I was being bitter towards God until that point. I realized then that God was testing me if I was truly willing to give up EVERYTHING to follow Him. I cried, and cried, and cried, confessed my sins, cried some more, and confessed even more.
Conviction is such a powerful tool, and oh such a blessing from God. I officially gave it all to God Friday morning, not even longing for God to replace anything in my life physically. While sitting at my home during lunch Friday afternoon Janet (fellow DTS student from Taiwan) came up to me and handed me money to buy a new charger. I just couldn't believe it. She told me that God showed her that I was spending too much time on my computer when I should be spending it growing in His Word. God told her it was a message from Him to not only be joyful when He gives and takes away, but be longing to seek Him first and foremost.
I'm so glad I decided to listen to God, instead of man, take a leap of faith, even if I didn't have all the finances for DTS, and give up everything to follow HIM and come to DTS in Taiwan. I've learned so much about God (His character, love, mercy, grace, wrath, holiness, etc), myself (faith, beliefs, etc), and the world (biblical world view) in these 8 short weeks than I have ever learned going to church, reading the bible, or going to small group. God Bless Taiwan, YWAM, And DTS!!!!!!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Laying It ALL On The Altar
First came the house, the car, and friends/family. I thought I gave up everything to come to Taiwan to grow closer to God through DTS, but nothing could of prepared me for what happened two days ago. I woke up with the desire to give financially to YWAM. I wasn't sure how much at the time, but after going to the Lord in prayer, He clearly stated 'EVERYTHING'.
So, I opened my dresser and pulled out the perfectly rolled up NT (New Taiwanese) bills, and walked up to Josh, DTS leader. I told him:
To be honest, this was the hardest decision I've ever had to do so far in short lived life. Since I had to grow up fast, being in the Foster Care system for pretty much my entire childhood, I had to work for everything I wanted for myself. I never had support, or a place to run to when things got rough. Even when I did finally make that important decision to follow Christ Jesus I didn't know I could trust Him for a long time.
When I handed the money to Josh, I almost broke down. I could believe I was trusting God for EVERYTHING. I still had a couple hundred NT in my wallet that I longed to keep for food, but while in class God convicted me. God asked me if I was willing to trust Him 100% or just simply 95%. So, after class I pulled the last bit of money I had in my wallet, including all the change, and gave it to Josh.
I'm not sharing this because I believe I have greater faith than the next person. I knew deep down I didn't trust God enough, and because of this reality I knew I had to step up to the plate. I know the path is going to be rough because of this decision, but I honestly have peace, and nothing can take that away.
So, I opened my dresser and pulled out the perfectly rolled up NT (New Taiwanese) bills, and walked up to Josh, DTS leader. I told him:
If I'm going to trust God in my ministry as a missionary, I need to trust Him in every part of my life. This includes my finances. Here's every bit of money I possess in this world, and I'm trusting He'll provide all my needs. I've relied on myself and man for far too long, and if I want to reach the next step in my life as a missionary I need to trust Him with all my decisions AND finances.
To be honest, this was the hardest decision I've ever had to do so far in short lived life. Since I had to grow up fast, being in the Foster Care system for pretty much my entire childhood, I had to work for everything I wanted for myself. I never had support, or a place to run to when things got rough. Even when I did finally make that important decision to follow Christ Jesus I didn't know I could trust Him for a long time.
When I handed the money to Josh, I almost broke down. I could believe I was trusting God for EVERYTHING. I still had a couple hundred NT in my wallet that I longed to keep for food, but while in class God convicted me. God asked me if I was willing to trust Him 100% or just simply 95%. So, after class I pulled the last bit of money I had in my wallet, including all the change, and gave it to Josh.
I'm not sharing this because I believe I have greater faith than the next person. I knew deep down I didn't trust God enough, and because of this reality I knew I had to step up to the plate. I know the path is going to be rough because of this decision, but I honestly have peace, and nothing can take that away.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Relationships
This week has been a real challenge for me in DTS. The topic of discussion for the week was relationships. Monday Dane & Bee Myers talked about our Relationship With God on Monday, Family on Tuesday, Confrontation on Wednesday, Dating on Thursday, and Marriage today (Friday). My personal relationship with God, is pretty solid, and growing each day. My family relationship, not so good. I struggle to even call my mom every week, and sometimes I don't even call her once a week.
Probably the biggest struggle for me was the dating and marriage topics. Hard to believe, but I've recently laid down my rights to marriage on the altar. I honestly don't care if I get married, and I'm even to point where I think it'll be a hindrance to my walk and call to missions at this time. Like Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:1-5;
Since I made a promise with God a few years ago concerning impurity there is no need for marriage like this passage states. Sure Paul was a little weird, but think about it. If you're spiritually attached to another human, there will have to be times where you have to spend time with this person. Time, ultimately, I'd rather be spending concentrating walking in my call and personal time with God. A married man, can't just pack up and fly off to another country for months at a time, but someone that has no ties can. I'm not saying that I'll never get married, but I am saying that I have given up my right to it all 100%.
If I do get married, it will truly be from God. My standards for marriage is that she HAS to have the exact some call to Taiwan and Asia, as me. She HAS to be willing to travel to remote places, maybe never have our own house, fancy car, or lots of money. I'm called to be a disciple and missionary of God. I'm trying to give up my rights to everything, including my own life. To do this requires giving up EVERYTHING, including my rights to marriage and children.
Probably the biggest struggle for me was the dating and marriage topics. Hard to believe, but I've recently laid down my rights to marriage on the altar. I honestly don't care if I get married, and I'm even to point where I think it'll be a hindrance to my walk and call to missions at this time. Like Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:1-5;
Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry. But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
Since I made a promise with God a few years ago concerning impurity there is no need for marriage like this passage states. Sure Paul was a little weird, but think about it. If you're spiritually attached to another human, there will have to be times where you have to spend time with this person. Time, ultimately, I'd rather be spending concentrating walking in my call and personal time with God. A married man, can't just pack up and fly off to another country for months at a time, but someone that has no ties can. I'm not saying that I'll never get married, but I am saying that I have given up my right to it all 100%.
If I do get married, it will truly be from God. My standards for marriage is that she HAS to have the exact some call to Taiwan and Asia, as me. She HAS to be willing to travel to remote places, maybe never have our own house, fancy car, or lots of money. I'm called to be a disciple and missionary of God. I'm trying to give up my rights to everything, including my own life. To do this requires giving up EVERYTHING, including my rights to marriage and children.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
One Long & Powerful Month
A relationship renewed, new faces becoming friends, and a new place to call home. Being here in Taiwan has changed virtually everything about my views of God, and even part of my own character. It's been a long month being overseas, away from my family & friends, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I've learned, and still learning, so much about Listening To The Voice of God, Evangelism, The Character of God, and Spiritual Warfare. I can honestly say that I've learned more here than I've learned & been able to acknowledge with the 4 years of going to church on a regular basis, and the months spent in a ministry school. I'm not sure what it is, but I believe the people here that impact me are the most amazing people I've ever met.
Brent & April Wildeson (DTS Staff/At Risk Women Ministry) are, to say the least, the greatest inspirational couple I've had the joy to grow with. There's just something about Brent that draws me to know more about him. Nash Huang (YWAM translator/DTS leader) is incredible as well. He still has a lot of growing to do, like us all, but has been blessed by God in so many ways, and he knows this.
Learning to hear the voice of God has been the most challenging thing I've even done. Especially, after hearing a direction from God, going out and doing what He has shared with me. Being bold has been a big problem in my past after hearing something from God and simply not sharing it. Now, I'm learning boldness is key to becoming more acquainted with my heavenly Father. Also, to make things cooler, I'm been shown the location of my calling as a missionary, and it's Taiwan. Confirmation after confirmation have come pouring into my life. Even an attack from a demonic being, showing the enemy doesn't want me here, has fueled my ambition to keep battling for the Taiwanese people still dwelling in the dark.
Keep praying for my finances. I'm still short, but I've fully given it to God, and I'm tired of worrying about stupid stuff. I'm also heading to Hong Kong tonight to renew my Visa for Taiwan. Pray I have favor with the Taiwanese government, and everything goes smoothly. Lastly, pray for my boldness. I long to be like Paul, being unafraid of not pleasing people, but caring about what God whats. Blessings.
Brent & April Wildeson (DTS Staff/At Risk Women Ministry) are, to say the least, the greatest inspirational couple I've had the joy to grow with. There's just something about Brent that draws me to know more about him. Nash Huang (YWAM translator/DTS leader) is incredible as well. He still has a lot of growing to do, like us all, but has been blessed by God in so many ways, and he knows this.
Learning to hear the voice of God has been the most challenging thing I've even done. Especially, after hearing a direction from God, going out and doing what He has shared with me. Being bold has been a big problem in my past after hearing something from God and simply not sharing it. Now, I'm learning boldness is key to becoming more acquainted with my heavenly Father. Also, to make things cooler, I'm been shown the location of my calling as a missionary, and it's Taiwan. Confirmation after confirmation have come pouring into my life. Even an attack from a demonic being, showing the enemy doesn't want me here, has fueled my ambition to keep battling for the Taiwanese people still dwelling in the dark.
Keep praying for my finances. I'm still short, but I've fully given it to God, and I'm tired of worrying about stupid stuff. I'm also heading to Hong Kong tonight to renew my Visa for Taiwan. Pray I have favor with the Taiwanese government, and everything goes smoothly. Lastly, pray for my boldness. I long to be like Paul, being unafraid of not pleasing people, but caring about what God whats. Blessings.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
One Accord
Many people from different countries, with numerous backgrounds, but one heart. A passion to learn more about God, get equipped to fight a common enemy, and spread the Word of God to all nations. Week one was an eye opener for myself, and I hope for many others as well. Beliefs renewed, a relationship rekindled, and wisdom shared from one to another. My fervor to be part of the ministry here in Taiwan has been transformed from a dream to an ultimate reality. Learning to stop being a deductive bible reader wasn’t as much of a challenge as learning to be still in the presence of God and waiting on Him.
Gack brought to the table a clear and simply way of learning more from reading my bible through inductive reading. I’m still in awe on how much more I’m learning now. Don Gillman showed us how to productively talk with God through intercessory prayer. Acknowledging the Spirit of God as being the leader, not myself, and praising God for speaking to me (anticipation), never once crossed my mind.
Small group this week was powerful. No spoken words, not bible study, no group prayer, just being in the presence of my Father, in the countryside, and soaking up His beauty. All of us guys went to a small waterfall, where I was reminded of God’s admirable beauty. Just being surrounded by nature’s splendor made me realize that God is everywhere. I pray this next week will be full of situations involving learning something new, and being able to continue to apply the things I’ve learned from this first week.
If Jealously Was A Knife, We'd All Be Dead...
Gack brought to the table a clear and simply way of learning more from reading my bible through inductive reading. I’m still in awe on how much more I’m learning now. Don Gillman showed us how to productively talk with God through intercessory prayer. Acknowledging the Spirit of God as being the leader, not myself, and praising God for speaking to me (anticipation), never once crossed my mind.
Small group this week was powerful. No spoken words, not bible study, no group prayer, just being in the presence of my Father, in the countryside, and soaking up His beauty. All of us guys went to a small waterfall, where I was reminded of God’s admirable beauty. Just being surrounded by nature’s splendor made me realize that God is everywhere. I pray this next week will be full of situations involving learning something new, and being able to continue to apply the things I’ve learned from this first week.
If Jealously Was A Knife, We'd All Be Dead...
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Taiwan
So, after 31 hours of plane rides/layovers I finally made it to Dan Shui, Taiwan. I haven't been able to check out the local area, due to a typhoon tearing its way through Taiwan. Hopefully tomorrow, Sunday, I'll be able to get acquainted with my beautiful, yet busy, surrounding. My expectations were blown away of what I would be experiencing, and I'm stoked that God has brought me here. My life is about to change, for the better, forever.
We have students from all over the world this year. Two of us are from the States, one from Mongolia, two from Japan, two from Germany, one from Brazil, one from Holland, one from Canada, and one from the Philippines. I'd love to write more, but it's really late, and I have church in the morning. The pictures below are me on the plane right over Tokyo, and the other is in DanShui, Taiwan. Blessings! Also, I added more pictures on my website.
We have students from all over the world this year. Two of us are from the States, one from Mongolia, two from Japan, two from Germany, one from Brazil, one from Holland, one from Canada, and one from the Philippines. I'd love to write more, but it's really late, and I have church in the morning. The pictures below are me on the plane right over Tokyo, and the other is in DanShui, Taiwan. Blessings! Also, I added more pictures on my website.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Offically 12 Days Away
Today was the day I've been longing for ever since God called me to the missions field about 4 years ago. At 8am this morning I purchased my plane ticket to Taiwan to begin my missions training. I'm so excited, and nervous at the same time, to be able to finally start walking the path I chose to spread the Word of God to Asia. Keep me in your prayers that I may learn much, become more intimate with God, and not stumble back to my old life when the times get tough and I can't see Papa in the mist of battle. Blesses.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Stepping Out of the Norm
Until recently I never had the guts to step out into faith and take on man. I'm sick of being the normal 'christian'. I've decided, even though I don't have the finances in order yet, to move to Taiwan. I've prayed about it, and have received confirmation from a leader of DTS, and my best friend, Jonathan McNabb, to suit up my armor and tackle stress, anxiety, depression, and all the other spirits of the enemy, head on.
Pray for me, and my step out of the boat to walk on water in faith...
When you look back, don't you want to say you had enough guts to go for it?
-Tranformers
Pray for me, and my step out of the boat to walk on water in faith...
Monday, August 25, 2008
Water In To Wine
It's sad that for so long faith has been seen in the human element as religion. For too long has pure intimacy with God, the way He designed it to be, been established by rules, laws, and regulations. All of you water-downed churches, christians, religions, and righteousness, stop fleeing, stand up, fight this oppression, and together, as one united being, we can dethrone our enemy. I'm tired of seeing denomination vs nondenomination. Who's right, and who's wrong? Can't we just get back to the basics? An undying desire to worship Him. A desire, not from the fear of eternal damnation, but a desire to just know Him more. A longing to love our Creator, and worship the purest of perfect. I love you Jesus! I'm not ashamed. I will spread your Word, like a wild fire, upon all the nations, like you instructed us oh so long ago...
Friday, August 22, 2008
And The Masses Shall Gather
Last week was one of those weeks. Working out of town, 16 hours a day. Having to joyfully working with incompetent morons, that quite frankly, scare me to death using power tools, and then THE CALL.
From the beginning of Jesus' ministry, until the present, humanity has longed, with a passion, to gather together to be filled with the presence of the Spirit of God (Whether a believer or not). Last Saturday, August 16, housed such an event. Together with 2 very close friends, Jonathan McNabb and Michael Scichowski, we embarked on a road trip to the great capitol of Washington D.C. It was a rigorous 18 hours of driving to stop over at my parents house for Friday's day and night at parents house, but oh so worth the over priced gas, the uncomfortable back seat, Jonathan's uncontrollable ADHD locked up in one confined space, and Michael farting in his sleep (Don't tell him I said that, HAHA!).
It was a joy to show off my parents to friends, and I know my parents were pleased to see me after 2 long years. Saturday morning we set out from my parents house, who only live 2.5 hours south of D.C., for THE CALL, with an unexpected turnout and an unprecedented expectation to worship the one and only true God right in front of our capitol. All together, 70,000 people responded to THE CALL, where 12 hours of straight fasting, prayer, and worship, invoked God's Spirit and came down to us in a pillar of fire right on The Mall in front the capitol building.
To be so intimate with God is a luxury our people have seemed to forget in a world of so many distractions. But for a brief 12 hours, 70,000 people got together in one spirit to worship Jesus, and the outcome was astonishing. Our nation is dying, falling apart at it's seams, and many of us 'Christians' are so caught up in getting our blessings, that we tend to forget what really matters. This nation of ours is turning into the next Babylon, where our lands are crying out with the tears of the innocent who's blood has been shed. I'm talking about the 32 million aborted children God's creation has destroyed, and the numbers are raising with a roar.
This, like a few other issues, are presented each time THE CALL is scheduled. To be honest, I came back different. I no longer desire to watch TV, but rather spend the few hours I would of spent in front of it reading the Word or other spirit filled books. I currently picked up 'The Shack' by William P. Young, and it's turning out to be one of the best novels I've read in some time.
THE CALL will be in California on November 1, 2008 at Qualcomm Stadium. So if you're in that area, or long to worship Christ outside the walls of today's church, I urge you to attend. Also, keep me in your prayers. September 9th is coming up fast, and I'm still short a bit of money to make it to Taiwan, China. Blessings!!!
FYI: This is me in a silent prayer, most of which are not silent, but screaming out to God to come to me with mercy and love. Yeah, I may look silly, but it's about the 9th hour into the event, and I don't care!!!
Friday, August 8, 2008
How Dark Is Too Dark?
I had this discussion with a friend yesterday about music. I personally like metal music, in all it's form. From death to black and goth. But I refuse to listen to anything but Godly music. I've grown to really like Virgin Black. They're goth metal, with a pretty dark sound, but they're Godly with their lyrics. My friend stated that there's certain times when music itself can be used for good and evil, but I disagree. Music itself is neither good nor evil, it's neutral. The lyrics themselves are what defines good and evil.
Take Jesus for example, He as God became man, sin itself, to bring hope to us. So, if a band decided to venture into the unGodly realm of death/black/goth metal to reach people that would more-than-likely step into a satanistic church rather than a Godly church, are they venturing too far? I don't think so. I think their goal is to be like Jesus, and attempt to reach the unreachable. What do you think?
Take Jesus for example, He as God became man, sin itself, to bring hope to us. So, if a band decided to venture into the unGodly realm of death/black/goth metal to reach people that would more-than-likely step into a satanistic church rather than a Godly church, are they venturing too far? I don't think so. I think their goal is to be like Jesus, and attempt to reach the unreachable. What do you think?
Sunday, July 27, 2008
God's Will Over Man's
Over the past 8 months, since God has put it on my heart to prepare for China, I've had so much support. But with tons of support comes some disagreement. I know, with 100% truth, that God wants me to attend YWAM's DTS. With one disagreement comes confirmation after confirmation. Take today for example. Out of nowhere I get blessed with close to enough money to support for plane ticket to and from China. Is that confirmation or what? I've even been told from tons of family members, church family members, and two separate churches that I will be receiving financial and spiritual support from them in the very near future.
Even though I know with all my faith and being that I'm called to this distant land, I'm still distressed. Not really stressed, but just wondering when, I know it's coming, my support will be 100%. Pray for me, and my future. Blessings.
Even though I know with all my faith and being that I'm called to this distant land, I'm still distressed. Not really stressed, but just wondering when, I know it's coming, my support will be 100%. Pray for me, and my future. Blessings.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Murdering Controversy
What would you do if someone tried to kill your faith? Would you deny your faith like Peter did right before Jesus was murdered? Or would you keep the faith like Job when he was on the brink of death and his own wife told him to curse God and die? It's easy to say you'd be like Job in the face of evil, but what about in real life?
Recently, my blog was attacked, and this person tried to kill my faith through words of controversy:
Many people would find this offensive, and more than likely retort. During Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:38, He says that when someone strikes you on one cheek you should turn the other cheek. What exactly does this mean? Should we be turning the other cheek in a sign of backing down and walk away? Personally I think NOT.
As a warrior of God I know what Jesus truly meant by turning the other cheek. In my personal life, and accepting my role as a missionary, I've come across plenty of people that hate me and God. It wasn't long before I figured out what Jesus meant, and it's simple advice. When someone strikes you on the cheek, whether it be physically or verbally, turn the other cheek and say "IS THAT ALL YOU GOT?!"
I'm not backing down from my faith, and I'll die sharing the Word of God. When this person attacked me, I wasn't angry, distressed, pissed, or whatever. My heart broke. It's a shame that so many people out there are so blinded by the god of this world, satan, and can't see the truth...
Recently, my blog was attacked, and this person tried to kill my faith through words of controversy:
You are so delusional that it is giving me a headache through the computer! Come read the truth about your bastard "god" and your perverted bible:
www.bayourabbi.blogspot.com
Many people would find this offensive, and more than likely retort. During Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:38, He says that when someone strikes you on one cheek you should turn the other cheek. What exactly does this mean? Should we be turning the other cheek in a sign of backing down and walk away? Personally I think NOT.
As a warrior of God I know what Jesus truly meant by turning the other cheek. In my personal life, and accepting my role as a missionary, I've come across plenty of people that hate me and God. It wasn't long before I figured out what Jesus meant, and it's simple advice. When someone strikes you on the cheek, whether it be physically or verbally, turn the other cheek and say "IS THAT ALL YOU GOT?!"
I'm not backing down from my faith, and I'll die sharing the Word of God. When this person attacked me, I wasn't angry, distressed, pissed, or whatever. My heart broke. It's a shame that so many people out there are so blinded by the god of this world, satan, and can't see the truth...
Saturday, July 5, 2008
God's Country
Crazy how much we get caught up in our every day lives, and we tend to forget there's a beautiful world right in front of us. Today was a day that I got to experience the surreal nature God created. Esther, Elijah, Jon, and I went to Mississippi for a kayak trip today. I couldn't even imagine how much I needed to relax and appreciate God's creation. Sure Elijah, Jon and me raced each other every once and a while, crazy man competitive nature, but I got to take in nature, chill with real friends, and just simply enjoy life.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Acceptance
For the first time in my life my calling as a missionary has come true. Today, July 4th, I received my official DTS, Discipleship Training School, acceptance letter. To check it out, go to ChrisNickJoy. The letter is posted for all to see!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
A Modern-Day Paul
I sometimes wonder, sometimes, if I'm truly meant to be a modern-day Paul more than anything. He spent his entire life on this world witnessing to people, no matter the situation, location, or cause. Because he devoted his life to God he felt everything else was pointless, including a wife. He even says in Corinthians that a person shouldn't get married unless he/she can't control their sexual urges. To be up front, my promise from God seems to be dying. I'm not losing my faith, but still I just wonder. Am I a modern-day Paul?
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
The Present
For the longest time, and still today, I think about the future. Something I heard a long time along for my youth pastor, Robbie Sparks in VA, is that the enemy reminds us of our mistakes and sins of the past, and tries to trouble us with the promises of the future. I have many promises of the future. Some little, and some lifetime. I have no trouble with the past. I do have my more than fair share of sins of the past, but I know God has forgiven me, so they don't effect me. It's the future that buckles my knees.
You see, a promise of a wife is pure, and spiritual. I will marry once, and ONLY once. She will be my one, and I will be her one. The problem is that I have a promise, and I don't have the faith to see it, nor stop worrying about it, and live the promise of now. In a nutshell. God doesn't promise tomorrow, not even an hour from now, but He does promise NOW!
Something I heard, and has stuck with me since, is an old Chinese saying. That saying is, "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why we call it the present." The future is blind, but I promise to hold on to my promises from God. Whether they are inhumanly impossible or not. Because, God loves to work in the impossible and show off His amazing grace.
You see, a promise of a wife is pure, and spiritual. I will marry once, and ONLY once. She will be my one, and I will be her one. The problem is that I have a promise, and I don't have the faith to see it, nor stop worrying about it, and live the promise of now. In a nutshell. God doesn't promise tomorrow, not even an hour from now, but He does promise NOW!
Something I heard, and has stuck with me since, is an old Chinese saying. That saying is, "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why we call it the present." The future is blind, but I promise to hold on to my promises from God. Whether they are inhumanly impossible or not. Because, God loves to work in the impossible and show off His amazing grace.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Hope For The Hopeless
So I got off work early today, and I decided to head over to the Baton Rouge Dreamcenter, Winbourne. I called Craig Boutte to see if anyone was there, and if I could help out in any way. He was at home getting lunch, and told me that a homeless woman had just come into our drop-in center and guys were needed to go to her old home and get her things. Come to find out, she had been living at this house for about a month, and the place was infested with cockroaches. Also, some crackheads had broken into her house and stole her tv, and wasn't sure if they were still there. Craig, Charity, Pastor Adam, and me went with the woman to her house, and us guys busted up into her crib. Fortunately, nobody was there.
We grabbed her things, and headed to this woman's homeless shelter, Ms. Green's Woman's Shelter. By the way, the woman has a 4 year old girl, and a seven year old son (was in school at the time). Ms. Green is on fire for the Lord. She owns this 2 story beautiful home, and currently houses around 20 women, and 40 children. She gave us a tour of the facilities, and come to find out, she owns 7 acres of land behind the house. Ms. Green has been running this shelter for 3 years, and not once has had to pay mortgage for the house or property. God has provided for this shepherd beyond anything humanly possible. As for the homeless woman, Charity told me that when she first arrived at the Dreamcenter, she was depressed, but once we arrived at the shelter you told see a dramatic change. She went from hopeless to hopeful, just because true followers of Christ stood up for her, and helped out in a big way. Glory goes to God Almighty!
God gave Ms. Green a vision, and while praying for her, Pastor Adam confirmed this. The vision was that she will be blessed with a five story home right behind her current one, and will be able to house hundreds of women. Pastor Adam and I both decided that we needed to tell Pastor Dino about making her shelter a must do for this years Servolution.
So much more went on today at the Dreamcenter, but I'm exhausted and I must sleep. God bless, and goodnight faithful!
We grabbed her things, and headed to this woman's homeless shelter, Ms. Green's Woman's Shelter. By the way, the woman has a 4 year old girl, and a seven year old son (was in school at the time). Ms. Green is on fire for the Lord. She owns this 2 story beautiful home, and currently houses around 20 women, and 40 children. She gave us a tour of the facilities, and come to find out, she owns 7 acres of land behind the house. Ms. Green has been running this shelter for 3 years, and not once has had to pay mortgage for the house or property. God has provided for this shepherd beyond anything humanly possible. As for the homeless woman, Charity told me that when she first arrived at the Dreamcenter, she was depressed, but once we arrived at the shelter you told see a dramatic change. She went from hopeless to hopeful, just because true followers of Christ stood up for her, and helped out in a big way. Glory goes to God Almighty!
God gave Ms. Green a vision, and while praying for her, Pastor Adam confirmed this. The vision was that she will be blessed with a five story home right behind her current one, and will be able to house hundreds of women. Pastor Adam and I both decided that we needed to tell Pastor Dino about making her shelter a must do for this years Servolution.
So much more went on today at the Dreamcenter, but I'm exhausted and I must sleep. God bless, and goodnight faithful!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
United We Live
What if God decided to stop caring one day? What if He just turned His back on society and didn't long for salvation to reach the world? Society today believes this has happened. That God has turned His back on them. How else can we explain the single mother of 3 getting shot, or the old man that the neighborhood loves getting robbed of all his possessions? Why would God do this? One simple statement, it's not God, but the enemy. Satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy, and Jesus comes to bring life, and life more abundantly. It's not that God isn't in control, but that God already said these will be signs of His coming again.
Satan is the god, lower case, of this world. He's not omnipresent, but he has the fallen at his command. God is raising up an army, to stand and show the world that life's not about sex, drugs, money and power. But about life, salvation, servanthood and worship. As followers of Jesus, we must stand together.
God gave me a glimpse of the future the other night at Jordan Kaiser's house while a group of us came together to worship Him. He showed me division within the church. Not something petite, but doctrine. We as followers much stand firm on His Word, and discern the evil one and his deception. United we live, divided we DIE!
Satan is the god, lower case, of this world. He's not omnipresent, but he has the fallen at his command. God is raising up an army, to stand and show the world that life's not about sex, drugs, money and power. But about life, salvation, servanthood and worship. As followers of Jesus, we must stand together.
God gave me a glimpse of the future the other night at Jordan Kaiser's house while a group of us came together to worship Him. He showed me division within the church. Not something petite, but doctrine. We as followers much stand firm on His Word, and discern the evil one and his deception. United we live, divided we DIE!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Following Jesus
I was walking down a trail with a guy following me, or so I thought. Once we reached the break, I headed north and he headed south. I discovered that there’s a big difference between following and just walking the same direction for a time.
In John 6 a similar event occurs. There are huge crowds “following” Jesus. But they eventually get tired of his teaching and they’re no longer entertained by his show. So, they leave. Jesus has an interesting response. Rather than chase after them and beg them to stay He turns to those that stuck around and asks, “Do you want to leave too?” Their response is, "Where else would we go, who else has the answers of life?" In effect they declare that they are “following” Jesus while the others just happened to be walking the same direction for a time.
In your life, is Jesus conveniently going the same way that you are? Does He just happen to be meeting your needs or are you following HIM? Sometimes He leads us down trails that are sketchy and difficult. However, He’s there to calm us and take care of the details. The true test is not what we do when Jesus leads us to go where we want to go but what occurs when He leads us to think, say, do or go where we don’t want to. Are you “following” Jesus today?
In John 6 a similar event occurs. There are huge crowds “following” Jesus. But they eventually get tired of his teaching and they’re no longer entertained by his show. So, they leave. Jesus has an interesting response. Rather than chase after them and beg them to stay He turns to those that stuck around and asks, “Do you want to leave too?” Their response is, "Where else would we go, who else has the answers of life?" In effect they declare that they are “following” Jesus while the others just happened to be walking the same direction for a time.
In your life, is Jesus conveniently going the same way that you are? Does He just happen to be meeting your needs or are you following HIM? Sometimes He leads us down trails that are sketchy and difficult. However, He’s there to calm us and take care of the details. The true test is not what we do when Jesus leads us to go where we want to go but what occurs when He leads us to think, say, do or go where we don’t want to. Are you “following” Jesus today?
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Prophecy Fulfilled In Golgotha
Sad how whenever someone hears music like this their first reaction is, "Oh my, this is so evil." Well guess what? Watch the video, read the lyrics, and know now that God uses what the enemy attempted for evil to do His will, and bring even the most vial person to salvation! Judge not, yet you be judged yourself...
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Live And Kickin'
Ok, my website, http://www.chrisnickjoy.com, is active online. Check it out, and let me know what you guys think. FYI, the site is FAR from being complete. None of the links work, except the BLOG button, but one day they will.
Also, be praying that I learn to stop being so hard-headed. Instead of letting my leg completely heal, I decided to play soccer tonight. What can I say? I was at my church's, Healing Place Church, Spanish campus, because we had a cookout. There were hispanics, soccer balls, goals, and I had my cleats with me. That's it, no more soccer for a month =[
Also, be praying that I learn to stop being so hard-headed. Instead of letting my leg completely heal, I decided to play soccer tonight. What can I say? I was at my church's, Healing Place Church, Spanish campus, because we had a cookout. There were hispanics, soccer balls, goals, and I had my cleats with me. That's it, no more soccer for a month =[
Sunday, April 13, 2008
The Human Body
It's so amazing how our physical bodies work. It can process sustenance, fight off diseases, cure broken bones and mend destroyed muscles. In my case, the mending of destroyed muscles is what I'm believing the body, that our perfect Creator in Heaven designed, can do. While playing soccer today I ripped my right calf muscle. I went to the ER because the pain was getting worse, and they said I can't use my right leg for 7 to 10 days. This is bad news for me, because I work outside for a living right now. Therefore, no finances for a week.
This weekend's service was about trusting in God through the good and the bad. Right now, thinking about the bills I have, and not sure what to do about them, I'm trusting Him with everything I have. Our bodies are capable of mending these things, and I know God is with me, and I'll NEVER lose hope!
This weekend's service was about trusting in God through the good and the bad. Right now, thinking about the bills I have, and not sure what to do about them, I'm trusting Him with everything I have. Our bodies are capable of mending these things, and I know God is with me, and I'll NEVER lose hope!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Adventures In China
Just to let everybody know, everybody meaning the possible 3 people that read this, that I'm now the proud owner of the domain name, chrisnickjoy.com. The reason why it's not chrisjoy.com is because there's an impostor in our midsts. I'm in the process right now of transferring the domain name to a server, and soon I'll be building the site from scratch. The site, in a whole, is going to be dedicated to my adventures in China, and all the amazing things God will be be doing through me while I'm there.
Blogs are fine and all, but it just doesn't provide the necessary tools to make an amazing site. There will be video/audio, tons of pictures, a daily word to learn Mandarin, day by day struggles and triumphs, and many other amazing, and fancy, stuff. So, look out, my life will be on display for all to see, and I pray it will help spread the amazing Word of God to everybody. Also, I'm going to see about getting the site translated to Chinese!!!! To all my friends, family members, enemies, and future wife, I love you all!
Blogs are fine and all, but it just doesn't provide the necessary tools to make an amazing site. There will be video/audio, tons of pictures, a daily word to learn Mandarin, day by day struggles and triumphs, and many other amazing, and fancy, stuff. So, look out, my life will be on display for all to see, and I pray it will help spread the amazing Word of God to everybody. Also, I'm going to see about getting the site translated to Chinese!!!! To all my friends, family members, enemies, and future wife, I love you all!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Hope Becomes The New Addiction
Hope, noun:
The feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best: to give up hope.
Hope, verb:
To believe, desire, or trust: I hope that my work will be satisfactory.
Hope, bible translation:
By its very nature, hope stresses two things: (a) futurity, and (b) invisibility. It deals with things we can’t see or haven’t received or both:
According to the worldly definition of this word, hope almost seems wishy washy, with doubt in the air. When you take the word from the bible, at this original Greek root word, it literally means "a strong and confident expectation".
In the Bible, hope is never a static or passive thing. It is dynamic, active, directive and life sustaining. This is everywhere obvious as we read the Word. Take a concordance, look up the word “hope” and you will find reference after reference pointing out the active results of hope in the lives of those who truly have a biblical hope and live accordingly.
In other words, a biblical hope is not an escape from reality or from problems. It doesn’t leave us idle, drifting or just rocking on the front porch. If our hope is biblical and based on God's promises, it will put us in gear.
Personally, my future is in God's hands. I have hope that I live every day in His grace and mercy, my promises come to pass in the right time, and I don't miss a single moment to be an idiot, in the eyes of the world, for God. Like Craig Groeschel said, "My answer's yes, now what's the question?" What he meant by this is, "God, what do you want me to do, and when do you want it done." To the world, I'm an idiot!
The feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best: to give up hope.
Hope, verb:
To believe, desire, or trust: I hope that my work will be satisfactory.
Hope, bible translation:
By its very nature, hope stresses two things: (a) futurity, and (b) invisibility. It deals with things we can’t see or haven’t received or both:
1 Peter 1:3 - He has given us new birth into a living HOPE through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead
According to the worldly definition of this word, hope almost seems wishy washy, with doubt in the air. When you take the word from the bible, at this original Greek root word, it literally means "a strong and confident expectation".
In the Bible, hope is never a static or passive thing. It is dynamic, active, directive and life sustaining. This is everywhere obvious as we read the Word. Take a concordance, look up the word “hope” and you will find reference after reference pointing out the active results of hope in the lives of those who truly have a biblical hope and live accordingly.
In other words, a biblical hope is not an escape from reality or from problems. It doesn’t leave us idle, drifting or just rocking on the front porch. If our hope is biblical and based on God's promises, it will put us in gear.
Personally, my future is in God's hands. I have hope that I live every day in His grace and mercy, my promises come to pass in the right time, and I don't miss a single moment to be an idiot, in the eyes of the world, for God. Like Craig Groeschel said, "My answer's yes, now what's the question?" What he meant by this is, "God, what do you want me to do, and when do you want it done." To the world, I'm an idiot!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
The Calling of Chris Joy
As September begins to slowly make it's way to the present I realize that I'm feeling a lot like the rich young man in the scriptures of Matthew 19:16-22:
Ok, I know I'm not 'wealthy', but I do own a beautiful new Scion tC, a lot of electronics, a house, many friends, and a 'stable' job. When I first realized the calling in my life was to start with giving up everything I was overzealous, and I was 100% gun ho. But recently, with less than 6 months to go, I've realized I'm SCARED out of my mind! I'm not proud of these feels, but I know my spirit. It's oh so willing, but my human side is weak.
I long to be like the infamous tax collector, Matthew. Jesus simply said to Matthew, "follow me," and without hesitation, Matthew stood up and followed Him. Matthew didn't know this man named Jesus. Even when he was with Jesus for His 3 years of ministry he still didn't realize who Jesus was until the Spirit of God came down to the world. Matthew had no idea Jesus was God, but he still faithfully walked His path without a second thought.
I pray I become more like Matthew. To give up everything, without the thoughts this world tells me what makes my life stable. Without Christ Jesus I'd be nothing. I'm giving up everything, and one day I'll give up this worldly life completely and show the nations the true love of God!
Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'" "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Ok, I know I'm not 'wealthy', but I do own a beautiful new Scion tC, a lot of electronics, a house, many friends, and a 'stable' job. When I first realized the calling in my life was to start with giving up everything I was overzealous, and I was 100% gun ho. But recently, with less than 6 months to go, I've realized I'm SCARED out of my mind! I'm not proud of these feels, but I know my spirit. It's oh so willing, but my human side is weak.
I long to be like the infamous tax collector, Matthew. Jesus simply said to Matthew, "follow me," and without hesitation, Matthew stood up and followed Him. Matthew didn't know this man named Jesus. Even when he was with Jesus for His 3 years of ministry he still didn't realize who Jesus was until the Spirit of God came down to the world. Matthew had no idea Jesus was God, but he still faithfully walked His path without a second thought.
I pray I become more like Matthew. To give up everything, without the thoughts this world tells me what makes my life stable. Without Christ Jesus I'd be nothing. I'm giving up everything, and one day I'll give up this worldly life completely and show the nations the true love of God!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Love: Weakness Or Blessing?
I always thought I'd be married before I turned 30, be in love for the rest of my life, and die with my wife in my arms. However, ever since I decided to finally stop running from God, and follow my calling as a church bringer, I've realized that God is such a jealous Father. He needs to be first; in my finances, time, life, love, etc. Once I realized this, all my expectations on marriage got shot out the window. To be honest, in 2 years I don't know what I'll be doing. My goal is to rekindle my love, but it's truly in God's hands.
Love is such an emotional burden when it's not time, but can be such a blessing when you have a promise, and you know the love God has planned for you. Looking to God for all your answers is hard, but that's faith. Like the lyrics from August Burns Red's song, Black Sheep:
I want to concentrate on the italicized/bold part of the lyrics. God always brings us through trials to show, teach, or disciple us on things we need to grow stronger in. My current trial is exactly a trial of healing. I was first feeling nothing but pain, but while God worked on my heart, He showed me some things that were hindering my walk. If it wasn't for going through this seemingly unbearable pain, I would of never noticed the locked doors in my heart. I know the promise God has planned for me about my wife. I now wait patiently for the day she's back in my life!
Love is such an emotional burden when it's not time, but can be such a blessing when you have a promise, and you know the love God has planned for you. Looking to God for all your answers is hard, but that's faith. Like the lyrics from August Burns Red's song, Black Sheep:
You’ve fallen captive to what you thought would save you, what you thought would clean your slate.
You’re in the thick of it now and you have swallowed the hook.
What’s done is done.
We’ll continue on with or without you.
Pain must exist in order for healing to survive.
Neither one will ever serve their purpose alone.
You’ve fallen in love with a dream you’ve never had.
You’ve fallen in love with a surreal way of living.
To late to wake, farewell and good luck to you.
See you at the end.
Too late to wake, to lay too waste.
I’m throwing in the towel.
This is my goodbye.
Don’t worry.
We saw through your trickery, and were coming out alive.
See you at the end.
What was once your life is now lifeless.
What was once your life is now your jail cell.
I want to concentrate on the italicized/bold part of the lyrics. God always brings us through trials to show, teach, or disciple us on things we need to grow stronger in. My current trial is exactly a trial of healing. I was first feeling nothing but pain, but while God worked on my heart, He showed me some things that were hindering my walk. If it wasn't for going through this seemingly unbearable pain, I would of never noticed the locked doors in my heart. I know the promise God has planned for me about my wife. I now wait patiently for the day she's back in my life!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Live The Life
I truly want to live the life God designed for me. To run the path with perseverance, complete my destiny. To take old of that for which my Lord took hold of me, and see His power in my life and live completely free. With no shame or condemnation, but clothed in purity. To take the weapon in my hand and fight the enemy. To be light so strong and bright, and see my family live a life of righteousness. Their freedom I shall see. To be part of the greatest move of God in history, and flourish in His house and in His presence. To live daily, bound by nothing but His love, giving all of me. Yes, today I choose to live the life He planned for me! Never again will pride, idolatry, fear, and heartache separate me from my KING!
In this world, being a follower of Christ is foolish in the eyes of the unsaved. Truly, we are idiots. Who would in their right mind sell everything and follow someone they've never met? Why would God choose 'ordinary men', ordinary meaning idiotes, meaning AN IDIOT, to be leaders of the greatest movement in human history? Simply put, God calls the weak to lead the strong. He gives sinner freedom, and 'holy' people damnation.
In this world, being a follower of Christ is foolish in the eyes of the unsaved. Truly, we are idiots. Who would in their right mind sell everything and follow someone they've never met? Why would God choose 'ordinary men', ordinary meaning idiotes, meaning AN IDIOT, to be leaders of the greatest movement in human history? Simply put, God calls the weak to lead the strong. He gives sinner freedom, and 'holy' people damnation.
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.
Acts 5:38-39
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Jesus Style
Every day in the life of a follower of Christ is a testimony in itself. Whether it's a testimony of faith, or sin, it's written in each of our books. My life is a testimony of faith, burden, betrayal, murderer of the flesh, provider of sin, and on and on. I'm not perfect, and never will I be, but I strive for excellence day in and day out. My knowledge of the bible is still that of a child. My prayer life is sometimes never present. But my servanthood will never disappear, nor shrink. We're ALL called to be servants. Jesus never once got waited on, because He was always the one on the ground washing other's feet. My life will never be that of a king, and I'm greatful.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Time
It's funny, yet really painful, how long it takes for us as humans to understand what God is doing in our lives. Heck, it took me 3 months to realize I was holding back my pure intimacy with Christ will dating my recent girlfriend. I never once realized I was placing God and her on the same pedestal.
To keep this short, mostly because I just got home from working a 13 hour shift, God works on His time. And to be frank, He has no time. I'm learning many things through this season in my life of being seperated from the woman I love the most.
1. God Is A Very Jealous God And Will Never Be Tied For First.
2. Pure Intimacy With God Will Lead To Dreams & Visions Come True.
3. There Are Many Splendors In Life.
4. The Road Is Long, Hard, and Full of Trials And Temptations.
5. Jesus Is The Way, The Truth, And The Life!
6. Mathew 6:33-34
To keep this short, mostly because I just got home from working a 13 hour shift, God works on His time. And to be frank, He has no time. I'm learning many things through this season in my life of being seperated from the woman I love the most.
1. God Is A Very Jealous God And Will Never Be Tied For First.
2. Pure Intimacy With God Will Lead To Dreams & Visions Come True.
3. There Are Many Splendors In Life.
4. The Road Is Long, Hard, and Full of Trials And Temptations.
5. Jesus Is The Way, The Truth, And The Life!
6. Mathew 6:33-34
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Peace, Love, Happiness
Sounds like what some hippy or new waver would say, but they're things I've only been able to truly experience when I give everything to God. I was in the valley for way too long, and I noticed I wasn't getting anywhere because I wasn't giving God my attention. The second I realized God was in charge was the second I felt peace, love, and happiness. Pastor Dino spoke about Love and several other topics this weekend. He said that human love will always let us down, and oh how it's so true.
To be honest, when I was in my most recent relationship I was letting her fill some of the hole in the heart that can only be filled by the Spirit of God. This was the true downfall of our relationship. I wasn't giving God everything I had, therefore He took things away to get my undivided attention. It took time, me running, and almost denouncing Him, for me to give Him everything. My prayers have been answered, my life is perfectly complete, and all it took was seeking God's face with everything I have. When you think about it, it's not very hard, but like Matthew wrote in Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
It is always true of the disciple that the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak, and he must therefore "watch and pray." The spirit knows the right way, and desires to follow it, but the flesh lacks courage and finds it too hard, too hazardous and wearisome, and it stifles the voice of the spirit. I wasn't watching for the enemy and he used the one person I love the most to get to me, and he won that fight. But, because I am renewed by the blood and sacrifice of my Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus, that win for him was also my victory. I've come to love God more than I ever have before. I long for His love, and He's blessed and shown me the way.
I now have a plan in life, a purpose to fulfill with every breath I take. I'm a disciple, a missionary, an apostle, a warrior, a worshiper, a friend, and most importantly, a child of the Living God, Emmanuel. I will show the world what it means to truly give it all the God. If this takes giving up my plans, which it has on many occasions, my life, my worldly job, my car, my finances, and my love, I will rest assured I did the right thing, AND I WILL HAVE PEACE!
To be honest, when I was in my most recent relationship I was letting her fill some of the hole in the heart that can only be filled by the Spirit of God. This was the true downfall of our relationship. I wasn't giving God everything I had, therefore He took things away to get my undivided attention. It took time, me running, and almost denouncing Him, for me to give Him everything. My prayers have been answered, my life is perfectly complete, and all it took was seeking God's face with everything I have. When you think about it, it's not very hard, but like Matthew wrote in Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
It is always true of the disciple that the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak, and he must therefore "watch and pray." The spirit knows the right way, and desires to follow it, but the flesh lacks courage and finds it too hard, too hazardous and wearisome, and it stifles the voice of the spirit. I wasn't watching for the enemy and he used the one person I love the most to get to me, and he won that fight. But, because I am renewed by the blood and sacrifice of my Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus, that win for him was also my victory. I've come to love God more than I ever have before. I long for His love, and He's blessed and shown me the way.
I now have a plan in life, a purpose to fulfill with every breath I take. I'm a disciple, a missionary, an apostle, a warrior, a worshiper, a friend, and most importantly, a child of the Living God, Emmanuel. I will show the world what it means to truly give it all the God. If this takes giving up my plans, which it has on many occasions, my life, my worldly job, my car, my finances, and my love, I will rest assured I did the right thing, AND I WILL HAVE PEACE!
Friday, February 1, 2008
When All Was Lost
Like all my friends know, I had literally lost my will to continue my pursuit of Christ. I lost the only woman I thought would never hurt me, and the best job I've ever had, all within 4 months. I got so depressed I publicly denounced my faith. Funny how when I asked people to STOP praying for me they did the exact opposite.
I got a word for David McNabb the other day. He told me about Pastor Dino's word about 16 years ago he was in pure darkness like me. He told God that if He didn't come in and do something he would walk away forever. God spoke to him and asked how he could trust Him when things were going smooth and not trust Him when he was in the dark. 16 years later, Pastor Dino is the leading pastor of the most amazing church in the world.
I realized then that if I truly believed in my promise would she really want someone struggling with their faith, or someone completely devoted. Also, how can I even think about the other promises I've received about my future and being a missionary if I can't even trust God with love?
I'm completely unemployeed, still heartbroken (slowly getting over it), and now backed up on bills. But, I'm FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!! at piece! I'm where God wants me, and that's all that matters. When I gave my life to God 10 years ago, I promised to give Him everything. I don't care anymore about if I'm going to lose my new car, my home, etc., because I've realized I got these things to begin with BECAUSE of God's mercy and grace. If I have to lose everything in order to show the world God's glory I will. If I have to live a life like Paul, I will.
As for her, I found it a lot easier to stop missing her when I start praying for her and giving her to Him. Sorry girl...I'm forgetting you, like you did to me.
I got a word for David McNabb the other day. He told me about Pastor Dino's word about 16 years ago he was in pure darkness like me. He told God that if He didn't come in and do something he would walk away forever. God spoke to him and asked how he could trust Him when things were going smooth and not trust Him when he was in the dark. 16 years later, Pastor Dino is the leading pastor of the most amazing church in the world.
I realized then that if I truly believed in my promise would she really want someone struggling with their faith, or someone completely devoted. Also, how can I even think about the other promises I've received about my future and being a missionary if I can't even trust God with love?
I'm completely unemployeed, still heartbroken (slowly getting over it), and now backed up on bills. But, I'm FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!! at piece! I'm where God wants me, and that's all that matters. When I gave my life to God 10 years ago, I promised to give Him everything. I don't care anymore about if I'm going to lose my new car, my home, etc., because I've realized I got these things to begin with BECAUSE of God's mercy and grace. If I have to lose everything in order to show the world God's glory I will. If I have to live a life like Paul, I will.
As for her, I found it a lot easier to stop missing her when I start praying for her and giving her to Him. Sorry girl...I'm forgetting you, like you did to me.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
When In The Dark
These past couple of days have been a trial I will never forget. I'm in the dark, and Mr. David said today that 2 to 3 years from now I'll be able to see what God was doing. I'm official blind right now, and all I have left is to keep walking. I can't see a thing, not even that stereotypical 'light at the end of the tunnel'. I've lost everything, and Craig Boutte said this is the time God has set aside to show me where my priorities are, and where they should be. All the plans I had for myself have failed, and the struggles I've endured seem irrelevant now. I'm at that inevitable crossroad now...do or die. The place where every follower of Christ much stumble across. I'm fortunate enough to deal with this decision early in my walk, unlike some many people before, during, and after me. Rock bottom doesn't even come close to the state I'm in right now.
I hit rock bottom the day she denounced her love for me, and now I'm at the core. The core is fear. The core of despair. But like Paul said, God is merciful, and He'll never bring us through something without an escape. My flesh is weak, and my soul is weaker, but soon, my flesh will be strong and my soul will be unstoppable. I'm meant for more than most people could even imagine, and I'll be darn if the enemy will take away what I've ventured so hard to obtain. I'm a warrior, and God will set me FREE!!!
I hit rock bottom the day she denounced her love for me, and now I'm at the core. The core is fear. The core of despair. But like Paul said, God is merciful, and He'll never bring us through something without an escape. My flesh is weak, and my soul is weaker, but soon, my flesh will be strong and my soul will be unstoppable. I'm meant for more than most people could even imagine, and I'll be darn if the enemy will take away what I've ventured so hard to obtain. I'm a warrior, and God will set me FREE!!!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Sleepless Nights Alone
Reminds me of a past life when everything was beautiful...
Still Remains - Sleepless Nights Alone
At the end of all the earth
I find you here alone
At the forefront of my heart
And the butterflies
That tried to bring you life
Have died and gone away
Oh we are apart and I am lost
So while she sleeps, she dreams
We spend another sleepless night alone
You're so flirtatious with loneliness
And time just lingers on
We'll never become one
Forgot me, love
I've tried to bring you home
But I've died and gone away
Even if forever never comes
You're the only one
Who makes me come undone
Still Remains - Sleepless Nights Alone
At the end of all the earth
I find you here alone
At the forefront of my heart
And the butterflies
That tried to bring you life
Have died and gone away
Oh we are apart and I am lost
So while she sleeps, she dreams
We spend another sleepless night alone
You're so flirtatious with loneliness
And time just lingers on
We'll never become one
Forgot me, love
I've tried to bring you home
But I've died and gone away
Even if forever never comes
You're the only one
Who makes me come undone
A Gospel Lifestyle
The Word of God, the bible, talks about living a life of spreading the Gospel of Christ daily. How can you do this? Well, I gave a testimony, not mine, to my roommate today about Jonathan sharing the Word to a chinese girl a while back. It came down to the girl wanting to know why Jonathan was happy, and smiling, and joking around all the time. He told her he had Jesus, and let it go. For about 2 weeks she kept on asking him why he was so happy and he's only say the same thing. Finally, one day the girl grabbed him and demanding to know what Jesus was. That's when God released him and let him share the Word.
You see, by just us living a happy life, and showing love to everybody, even our enemies, we are spreading the Gospel. Mark said, we should show the world the Gospel, and sometimes it require words.
I've been so frustrated these past few weeks. Trying so hard to decide if this promise I have built up inside me is of God or not. Honestly, I don't know any more. She's telling me it will never happen, most of my 'friends' are saying the same thing. One friend is telling me to give it to God, and one is saying I need to win her love again. I'm tired of this scar in my heart growing bigger every day. I'm tired of the rejection, and the burden.
I'm pretty certain that I'm not showing the Gospel through my actions at work, which is where my mind wonders most of the time, and I have time to think about her. I pray God gives me strength, and shows me why I can't give it all to Him. I want to move on, but my promise is too strong. I thank God every day for my best friend, Jonathan McNabb. He's now praying with me to see if my promise is true. God, you're so wonderful, and I praise you with every breath I take. I've had to sacrifice so much these past 3 months, but I've grown and gained more than I've ever lost.
You see, by just us living a happy life, and showing love to everybody, even our enemies, we are spreading the Gospel. Mark said, we should show the world the Gospel, and sometimes it require words.
I've been so frustrated these past few weeks. Trying so hard to decide if this promise I have built up inside me is of God or not. Honestly, I don't know any more. She's telling me it will never happen, most of my 'friends' are saying the same thing. One friend is telling me to give it to God, and one is saying I need to win her love again. I'm tired of this scar in my heart growing bigger every day. I'm tired of the rejection, and the burden.
I'm pretty certain that I'm not showing the Gospel through my actions at work, which is where my mind wonders most of the time, and I have time to think about her. I pray God gives me strength, and shows me why I can't give it all to Him. I want to move on, but my promise is too strong. I thank God every day for my best friend, Jonathan McNabb. He's now praying with me to see if my promise is true. God, you're so wonderful, and I praise you with every breath I take. I've had to sacrifice so much these past 3 months, but I've grown and gained more than I've ever lost.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
With Blood Comes Cleansing
**These are the lyrics to With Blood Comes Cleansing's new album 'Horror'**
There is no one righteous, not even one; no one seeks God. Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit. Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness. Their feet are swift to shed blood; ruin and misery mark their ways, and the way of peace they do not know. There is no fear of the Lord before their eyes. Fear God, and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come.
As mortal death was at the door, the night seemed darker than before. Silence but no peace, visions of agony. The sweat and blood pour out, hemorrhaging from the pores of His body. Rise up, the betrayer is at hand. The Son of Man betrayed into the hands of sinners. Innocent blood will be shed by the hands of the guilty. As mortal death was at the door, the night seemed darker than before. The sweat and blood pour out, hemorrhaging from the pores of His body.
Forsaken by His closest friends, treated like a thief. See them draw their weapons; see them draw their swords. See them draw their weapons; they draw their swords. He was taken like a criminal, His innocence among the thieves. Liars, false witnesses, scourged to please the crowd. With each lash the skin is torn. Lash upon lash, ripping flesh from the bone. He took our sickness; He took our sorrow. By His stripes we are healed.
Nails hammered through His hands and feet, blood spraying from His veins and His body’s weak. Lifted up, a mangled spectacle for all the world to see, beaten and ridiculed lying in agony, His blood has set us free. Each breath is harder than the last. Our sin clinging to His body, now it is finished. He felt forsaken, He felt all alone. The earth begins to shake, graves are opened their bodies are awake. Our sin clinging to His body, now it is finished. He felt forsaken, He felt all alone.
The sin of the world was placed upon Him, leaving our filthy stains. His holy body was placed in the earth for three days and three nights. He descended low into the earth, the place where spirits where held. He took the keys of hell and death, plans of the enemy failed. Into hell and back again, capturing captivity. Into hell and back again, openly. The battle has been won. The tomb is empty; He’s alive. He ascended on high. Arisen from the grave now we all can be saved the price for sin is now paid.
As He left is how He shall return, separating the sky. It’s up to you. What choice will you decide? Will you live or will you die? Many things are written, written in His word, prophecies being fulfilled. Suffering and pain for the wicked ones, but peace for those who have been sealed. Time is short now count the cost. He will come back to judge the lost. Earthquakes and famines, a world that’s filled with pain. Hatred and war, the suffering begins. Earthquakes and famines, a world that’s filled with pain. Vengeance and murder, the earth is at its end. As He left is how He shall return separating the sky. It’s up to you what choice will you decide? Will you live or will you die?
The sun will blacken and the moon become as blood. The stars will fall from space. People will flee to the mountains, to hide their bodies from His face. The sun will blacken and the moon become as blood. The stars will fall from space. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand? Blood and fire shall burn the earth. Woe to those who inhabit the earth, in His wrath they won’t stand. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand. Soon the mountain will be burning with fire. Soon the water will turn bitter. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand? Blood and fire shall burn the earth.
As the pit is opened up the smoke will fill the sky. As the air is filled with darkness, they shall begin to fly. These demon locusts, will obey their king. Commanded not to kill their victims only to sting. Shaped like horses prepared for battle, with the power of a scorpion. Released to torture God’s opposition, all the rejecters all the blasphemers. Death shall flee. There is no way out. Hear their victims’ screams as they fill the sky. Cursed to feel the torture, they long to die. These demon locusts will obey their king. Commanded not to kill their victims, only to sting. Death shall flee.
It’s written in the pages. You have been warned for years. Armageddon’s coming, the sum of all your fears. You chose whom you would serve. You chose your side, now you get what you deserve. You chose your side, now pay the price. The battle lines have been drawn, knee deep in blood we’ll sing our victory song. War like this world has never seen; the time for mercy has passed. Evil shall triumph no more. This world wins no more. It’s written in the pages. You have been warned for years. Armageddon’s coming, the sum of all your fears.
Carcasses will be everywhere, left to decay, enough flesh left behind, for the birds to feed. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat, their mangled bodies rotting, left for the birds to eat. Carcasses will be everywhere left to decay. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat. With the sword of His mouth He will slaughter the wicked. He’ll be riding on a white horse, His garments dipped in blood, Heaven’s army following, wrath poured out like a flood. King of Kings and Lord of Lords, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Carcasses will be everywhere, left to decay, enough flesh behind for the birds to feed. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat, their mangled bodies rotting, left for the birds to eat. With the sword of His mouth He will slaughter the wicked.
One thousand years you will be bound up. When set free you will deceive. God’s judgment on you will come quickly; the flames will gladly then receive. Then your pain shall bring us comfort. We shall rejoice as you suffer in the flames. Into the lake with the beast and false prophet, there you’ll receive your eternal damnation. We shall rejoice as you suffer in the flames. One thousand years you will be bound up. When set free you will deceive. God’s judgment on you will come quickly; the flames will gladly then receive.
Destroyed by fire, many things will pass away. A new Heaven and new earth will stand for eternity. Destroyed by fire, many things will pass away. No more sorrow, nothing left to fear. God our father shall wipe away all our tears. No more darkness, no more night, His holy presence shall be the light. Behold all things are new. Only those whose name are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, shall live forever in this city, where there no longer will be strife. No more sorrow, nothing left to fear, God our father, shall wipe away all our tears. No more darkness, no more night, His holy presence shall be the light. Behold all things are made new. All things are new.
There is no one righteous, not even one; no one seeks God. Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit. Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness. Their feet are swift to shed blood; ruin and misery mark their ways, and the way of peace they do not know. There is no fear of the Lord before their eyes. Fear God, and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come.
As mortal death was at the door, the night seemed darker than before. Silence but no peace, visions of agony. The sweat and blood pour out, hemorrhaging from the pores of His body. Rise up, the betrayer is at hand. The Son of Man betrayed into the hands of sinners. Innocent blood will be shed by the hands of the guilty. As mortal death was at the door, the night seemed darker than before. The sweat and blood pour out, hemorrhaging from the pores of His body.
Forsaken by His closest friends, treated like a thief. See them draw their weapons; see them draw their swords. See them draw their weapons; they draw their swords. He was taken like a criminal, His innocence among the thieves. Liars, false witnesses, scourged to please the crowd. With each lash the skin is torn. Lash upon lash, ripping flesh from the bone. He took our sickness; He took our sorrow. By His stripes we are healed.
Nails hammered through His hands and feet, blood spraying from His veins and His body’s weak. Lifted up, a mangled spectacle for all the world to see, beaten and ridiculed lying in agony, His blood has set us free. Each breath is harder than the last. Our sin clinging to His body, now it is finished. He felt forsaken, He felt all alone. The earth begins to shake, graves are opened their bodies are awake. Our sin clinging to His body, now it is finished. He felt forsaken, He felt all alone.
The sin of the world was placed upon Him, leaving our filthy stains. His holy body was placed in the earth for three days and three nights. He descended low into the earth, the place where spirits where held. He took the keys of hell and death, plans of the enemy failed. Into hell and back again, capturing captivity. Into hell and back again, openly. The battle has been won. The tomb is empty; He’s alive. He ascended on high. Arisen from the grave now we all can be saved the price for sin is now paid.
As He left is how He shall return, separating the sky. It’s up to you. What choice will you decide? Will you live or will you die? Many things are written, written in His word, prophecies being fulfilled. Suffering and pain for the wicked ones, but peace for those who have been sealed. Time is short now count the cost. He will come back to judge the lost. Earthquakes and famines, a world that’s filled with pain. Hatred and war, the suffering begins. Earthquakes and famines, a world that’s filled with pain. Vengeance and murder, the earth is at its end. As He left is how He shall return separating the sky. It’s up to you what choice will you decide? Will you live or will you die?
The sun will blacken and the moon become as blood. The stars will fall from space. People will flee to the mountains, to hide their bodies from His face. The sun will blacken and the moon become as blood. The stars will fall from space. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand? Blood and fire shall burn the earth. Woe to those who inhabit the earth, in His wrath they won’t stand. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand. Soon the mountain will be burning with fire. Soon the water will turn bitter. The day of His wrath will come, on wicked men. The day of His wrath will come, who shall stand? Blood and fire shall burn the earth.
As the pit is opened up the smoke will fill the sky. As the air is filled with darkness, they shall begin to fly. These demon locusts, will obey their king. Commanded not to kill their victims only to sting. Shaped like horses prepared for battle, with the power of a scorpion. Released to torture God’s opposition, all the rejecters all the blasphemers. Death shall flee. There is no way out. Hear their victims’ screams as they fill the sky. Cursed to feel the torture, they long to die. These demon locusts will obey their king. Commanded not to kill their victims, only to sting. Death shall flee.
It’s written in the pages. You have been warned for years. Armageddon’s coming, the sum of all your fears. You chose whom you would serve. You chose your side, now you get what you deserve. You chose your side, now pay the price. The battle lines have been drawn, knee deep in blood we’ll sing our victory song. War like this world has never seen; the time for mercy has passed. Evil shall triumph no more. This world wins no more. It’s written in the pages. You have been warned for years. Armageddon’s coming, the sum of all your fears.
Carcasses will be everywhere, left to decay, enough flesh left behind, for the birds to feed. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat, their mangled bodies rotting, left for the birds to eat. Carcasses will be everywhere left to decay. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat. With the sword of His mouth He will slaughter the wicked. He’ll be riding on a white horse, His garments dipped in blood, Heaven’s army following, wrath poured out like a flood. King of Kings and Lord of Lords, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Carcasses will be everywhere, left to decay, enough flesh behind for the birds to feed. The armies of the beast shall wallow in defeat, their mangled bodies rotting, left for the birds to eat. With the sword of His mouth He will slaughter the wicked.
One thousand years you will be bound up. When set free you will deceive. God’s judgment on you will come quickly; the flames will gladly then receive. Then your pain shall bring us comfort. We shall rejoice as you suffer in the flames. Into the lake with the beast and false prophet, there you’ll receive your eternal damnation. We shall rejoice as you suffer in the flames. One thousand years you will be bound up. When set free you will deceive. God’s judgment on you will come quickly; the flames will gladly then receive.
Destroyed by fire, many things will pass away. A new Heaven and new earth will stand for eternity. Destroyed by fire, many things will pass away. No more sorrow, nothing left to fear. God our father shall wipe away all our tears. No more darkness, no more night, His holy presence shall be the light. Behold all things are new. Only those whose name are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, shall live forever in this city, where there no longer will be strife. No more sorrow, nothing left to fear, God our father, shall wipe away all our tears. No more darkness, no more night, His holy presence shall be the light. Behold all things are made new. All things are new.
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