This past year was a dry one. You wouldn't know it looking around right now here in Illinois because most of the fields are harvested (at least what could be harvested) and we've been getting rain ever since a revival service we had at Victory Christian Center when a new song was birthed that literally shook the heavens and made rain...downpours really. Thank You Lord for the rain!
While writing this blog this morning I'm stirred a little by that new song titled The Drought Is Over. This blog is not to bash what the Lord brought forth that night and in all actuality we're going to record that song. But a question is stirring in my spirit, "Jarrod, is the drought over?"
Maybe it's a question just for me or it might be convicting you too. This question is stirring me to reflect inward and see where my treasure is; what ground have I been tilling up for seeds to be planted; am I content in the things and systems of the world, etc.
There are dry times, I believe, in every Christians walk that drive them to the Father, drive them to His presence. It's like we're sponges that become dry and need to be dunked in the bucket again to be sopping wet! Those precious seasons that can be some misinterpreted actually help us go through the pruning, the cleaning, the preparation for the next level and next steps to be taken. I sense it.
My mentor Bill Swindle, an Elder at Victory Christian Center, recently sent some of the Jubilee Christian College students a video of late Pastor David Wilkerson preaching about A Call To Anguish.
Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27DIST8qO4I&feature=player_embedded
Honestly, this message made me uncomfortable and pierced me. Can I be open with you? It's so easy to become complacent and content where you are. I'm not questioning being content in our eternal security in the Lord, that's not what I'm saying. My point is that we become so content in the things and systems of this world that we forget the MAIN THING. We become entrapped with the Cares, Riches, And Pleasures of this world; which by the way is the acroynm...C.R.A.P. Sorry if that word offended you, it's the truth. (On a side note, I know I can be politically outspoken at times but I can't wait for the next 3 weeks to be gone and done with so that we can end this political battle, even within The Church. No more comments on that for now.)
I want to be a man after God's own heart. I don't want to just be a good husband or a good dad. That's not even average in today's culture. It is my desire to be a faithful, compassionate and spirit-filled husband and father that leads his family in righteousness even if it calls for radical faith in this age.
Please know that, jut like Apostle Paul, I do not claim to have this thing figured out, but that one thing I'm coming to grips with is to forget what is behind and press on toward that which God has called me for such a time as this. That 'forgetting' might even include the treasures we hold so dear that actually hold us back.
I'm simply sharing my heart with you and where I am with the Father. I hear His voice, feel His grip on my heart. It's convicting and THAT'S A GOOD THING! There's nothing like being in the presence of the Most Holy Living God which brings comfort, joy, conviction and transformation all at the same time.
I sense a genuine God encounter and a 'suddenly moment' coming Church! It's coming. In the words of the song The Drought Is Over..."I can hear the wind, I can smell the rain, I can see a cloud the size of a man's hand." FATHER RUIN US with the rains of Heaven and break our hearts for what breaks Yours.
I hope this challenges you as it has me. Please watch that message from Pastor David Wilkerson and feel free to comment and share how the Lord is moving in your life. May we draw closer to Him and be changed forever.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Thursday, September 13, 2012
John 15:1-4
“ I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
Let me share with you, rather quickly, some things that have been on my heart lately.
The scripture above has been stirring in my spirit for a few weeks now. The words of Jesus are piercing to the core.
In this passage we read that that the Father does a pruning of good branches and a cutting off of bad branches. Have you ever felt like your in this place of pruning or cutting? Let me encourage you...stay there and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work. This verse has really ministered to me:
"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
The words 'he prunes' also mean that 'he cleans.' The pruning, or cleaning, doesn't always feel good but the benefits and fruit thereafter are bountiful. But we must first submit to God in humility.
With this pruning (cleaning) there comes a need to even declutter our lives. My wife and I are selling our home so before we put the house on the market we emptied a lot of our belongings from the house and put them in a storage unit. Lately, I've been pondering the passage of scripture where the people sold their possessions and gave to the poor. It occurred to me, 'why am I paying a storage unit fee to keep stuff I'm not even needing right now?' We responded to that question by donating about half the items to a local mission (some of those items still need to be delivered.)
My point in sharing this is that with every fruitbearing season we experience, there is going to be a loping off of dead weight/dead branches that are not bearing good fruit or any fruit at all. And we'll experience the bitter sweet joys of pruning/cleaning that allows new life to spring forth. Let this season take it's course. Submit then to God in humility and then in due season He will raise you up.
“ I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
Let me share with you, rather quickly, some things that have been on my heart lately.
The scripture above has been stirring in my spirit for a few weeks now. The words of Jesus are piercing to the core.
In this passage we read that that the Father does a pruning of good branches and a cutting off of bad branches. Have you ever felt like your in this place of pruning or cutting? Let me encourage you...stay there and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work. This verse has really ministered to me:
"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
The words 'he prunes' also mean that 'he cleans.' The pruning, or cleaning, doesn't always feel good but the benefits and fruit thereafter are bountiful. But we must first submit to God in humility.
With this pruning (cleaning) there comes a need to even declutter our lives. My wife and I are selling our home so before we put the house on the market we emptied a lot of our belongings from the house and put them in a storage unit. Lately, I've been pondering the passage of scripture where the people sold their possessions and gave to the poor. It occurred to me, 'why am I paying a storage unit fee to keep stuff I'm not even needing right now?' We responded to that question by donating about half the items to a local mission (some of those items still need to be delivered.)
My point in sharing this is that with every fruitbearing season we experience, there is going to be a loping off of dead weight/dead branches that are not bearing good fruit or any fruit at all. And we'll experience the bitter sweet joys of pruning/cleaning that allows new life to spring forth. Let this season take it's course. Submit then to God in humility and then in due season He will raise you up.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
"What will be said of your life?"
"What will be said of your life?"
This is a question I've been hit with lately, and now I present it to you as well.
In the past 6 months, I've attended 5 funerals, witnessed believers born again into the Kingdom of God, seen more water baptisms recently than I have in the past 10 years, began to see the rain drops of revival and the list goes on.
With these experiences, the question "What will be said of your life?" continues to demand an answer.
The 5 funerals I've attended have mostly been of those who lived their lives to the fullest (in age and passion) and the memories shared by their family members made me feel as though I personally knew them.
One funeral I went to was of a young brother in the Lord and fellow minister of the Gospel, Jaman Iseminger, who was only 29 years old...2 years older than me. The question we are thinking about right now, "What will be said of your life?", was answered to the utmost with Jaman. He lived for "the least of these", cared for those in need, befriended strangers, was Jesus with skin on, faithful husband, loving father, unashamed and uncompromised in preaching the Good News of Christ and more. Let me share with you what Jaman's obituary said...check this out...
Jaman Alan Iseminger 29, departed the gravity of Earth and soared into the arms of Jesus C...hrist on Saturday, May 19, 2012. God called him into service early and called him into glory young. He leaves behind "the most important sermon we will ever hear" - his life. His passion was Christ, his heart loving, and his spirit joy. As pastor of Bethel Community Church of Southport he challenged his congregation to think outside the box of religion and embrace a deep, abiding, and living relationship with God, and with one another, and with the community. He preached truth, even when it was hard truth, but he preached with love. So much more than a pastor, he was a much loved son, an awesome husband, a devoted and joyful daddy, a fun loving brother, a loyal friend, a nephew, a grandson, a cousin and the list continues. He was a man of integrity, of zeal, of vision, and of joy. He truly was unique among mortals. Today he walks immortal and Heaven is brighter though Earth a bit dimmer because of his departure. He waits preparing a glorious reunion someday when he will be joined by his amazing wife, Amanda; their precious daughter, Belle; his parents, Scott and Gina Iseminger; his brothers, Damian and Micah Iseminger; his sister-in-law, Beth Iseminger; his in-laws, Rick and Kathy Morse; his brother-in-law, Jesse Morse; grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and those whose walk with God he changed because he lived Christ purely and joyfully before them. Services will be held Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. in Southport Presbyterian Church, 7525 McFarland Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46237, with visitation there from 2:00 p.m. until time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Loving South Africa, P.O. Box 30795, Indianapolis, IN 46230 ( http://www.lovingsa.org/ ) or Purchased, P.O. Box 531965, Indianapolis, IN 46253 ( http://www.purchased.org/ ). Arrangements entrusted to Little & Sons Funeral Home, Stop 11 Road Chapel . http://www.littleandsonsindianapolis.com/
If that doesn't convict you and motivate you to live life out for Christ, I honestly don't know what will. I'm calling on all those reading this to live life radically for Christ. Let's try something...live what Christ preached, live as He lived! This will be counter-cultural, against the grain, unpopular, insulting to most, harsh to many, lonely at times, but will reap eternal rewards for the Glory of God. Take this challenge with me and ask yourself, beyond all self-centeredness, because lives will be impacted by how you live..."What will be said of your life?"
Will it be said of you that...
He partied and drank everyday and was self-absorbed.
She cared only for herself and never helped others.
He went to every St. Louis baseball game, loved sports...yet forgot about his wife and kids,
never teaching them the Word of God.
She climbed the ladder of success only to find herself cold, lonely, and empty at the top.
Or will it be said of you that...
He held nothing back and lived fully for Christ, faithful to his wife, compassionate to his children.
She cared for the least of these and gave until it hurt.
He invested time into his family, giving his children stability to live faithfully for the Lord.
She left her business life to serve 'the last of these' in a 3rd world country.
May I say that how people answer the question, "What will be said of your life?", will be examples and memories of the kind of fruit you produced in your life.
I'm not speaking a motivational or 'happier life' message. That's just shallow.
I'm sharing and challenging all of us to live radically for Jesus Christ. Jesus lived, died, and rose again 2000+ years ago...and people are still talking about Him.
"What will be said of your life?"
This is a question I've been hit with lately, and now I present it to you as well.
In the past 6 months, I've attended 5 funerals, witnessed believers born again into the Kingdom of God, seen more water baptisms recently than I have in the past 10 years, began to see the rain drops of revival and the list goes on.
With these experiences, the question "What will be said of your life?" continues to demand an answer.
The 5 funerals I've attended have mostly been of those who lived their lives to the fullest (in age and passion) and the memories shared by their family members made me feel as though I personally knew them.
One funeral I went to was of a young brother in the Lord and fellow minister of the Gospel, Jaman Iseminger, who was only 29 years old...2 years older than me. The question we are thinking about right now, "What will be said of your life?", was answered to the utmost with Jaman. He lived for "the least of these", cared for those in need, befriended strangers, was Jesus with skin on, faithful husband, loving father, unashamed and uncompromised in preaching the Good News of Christ and more. Let me share with you what Jaman's obituary said...check this out...
Jaman Alan Iseminger 29, departed the gravity of Earth and soared into the arms of Jesus C...hrist on Saturday, May 19, 2012. God called him into service early and called him into glory young. He leaves behind "the most important sermon we will ever hear" - his life. His passion was Christ, his heart loving, and his spirit joy. As pastor of Bethel Community Church of Southport he challenged his congregation to think outside the box of religion and embrace a deep, abiding, and living relationship with God, and with one another, and with the community. He preached truth, even when it was hard truth, but he preached with love. So much more than a pastor, he was a much loved son, an awesome husband, a devoted and joyful daddy, a fun loving brother, a loyal friend, a nephew, a grandson, a cousin and the list continues. He was a man of integrity, of zeal, of vision, and of joy. He truly was unique among mortals. Today he walks immortal and Heaven is brighter though Earth a bit dimmer because of his departure. He waits preparing a glorious reunion someday when he will be joined by his amazing wife, Amanda; their precious daughter, Belle; his parents, Scott and Gina Iseminger; his brothers, Damian and Micah Iseminger; his sister-in-law, Beth Iseminger; his in-laws, Rick and Kathy Morse; his brother-in-law, Jesse Morse; grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and those whose walk with God he changed because he lived Christ purely and joyfully before them. Services will be held Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. in Southport Presbyterian Church, 7525 McFarland Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46237, with visitation there from 2:00 p.m. until time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Loving South Africa, P.O. Box 30795, Indianapolis, IN 46230 ( http://www.lovingsa.org/ ) or Purchased, P.O. Box 531965, Indianapolis, IN 46253 ( http://www.purchased.org/ ). Arrangements entrusted to Little & Sons Funeral Home, Stop 11 Road Chapel . http://www.littleandsonsindianapolis.com/
If that doesn't convict you and motivate you to live life out for Christ, I honestly don't know what will. I'm calling on all those reading this to live life radically for Christ. Let's try something...live what Christ preached, live as He lived! This will be counter-cultural, against the grain, unpopular, insulting to most, harsh to many, lonely at times, but will reap eternal rewards for the Glory of God. Take this challenge with me and ask yourself, beyond all self-centeredness, because lives will be impacted by how you live..."What will be said of your life?"
Will it be said of you that...
He partied and drank everyday and was self-absorbed.
She cared only for herself and never helped others.
He went to every St. Louis baseball game, loved sports...yet forgot about his wife and kids,
never teaching them the Word of God.
She climbed the ladder of success only to find herself cold, lonely, and empty at the top.
Or will it be said of you that...
He held nothing back and lived fully for Christ, faithful to his wife, compassionate to his children.
She cared for the least of these and gave until it hurt.
He invested time into his family, giving his children stability to live faithfully for the Lord.
She left her business life to serve 'the last of these' in a 3rd world country.
May I say that how people answer the question, "What will be said of your life?", will be examples and memories of the kind of fruit you produced in your life.
I'm not speaking a motivational or 'happier life' message. That's just shallow.
I'm sharing and challenging all of us to live radically for Jesus Christ. Jesus lived, died, and rose again 2000+ years ago...and people are still talking about Him.
"What will be said of your life?"
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
"...as the Lord was walking into the room..."
I had a dream last night that is really sticking with me. A dream that was so real and it's meaning so deep.
In short, the dream took place in a large city where a large Christian rock concert was to take place with a certain unnamed band (I don't believe the band name is relevant to the meaning of the dream.) Apparently the show was sold out. I had the opportunity to get backstage with the artist and see the set-up. I had free passes to get into the show and the energy around the arena was electric. Lines of people wrapped around the building. At one point in the dream, I walked outside to the crowds of people and announced, "Who wants free passes?" Multiple people rushed me for them.
Outside the arena I remember having access to another arena but it wasn't as pulsating with people. Actually, the access was limited to a few. In the dream, this 'other arena' seemed like the Holy of Holies and the entrance to this mysterious place was small and high up alongside the building. Inside this Holy Place there were 8-12 people that represented the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It was as if the Father was one group of people, the Son another group, and the Holy Spirit yet another group of people. There were men, women and children throughout the groups.
I know this sounds weird and unusual but stay with me here.
The Christian rock show started up, the doors opened and people came running to fill the seats. Smiles. Laughter. Excitement filled the air. You couldn't help be excited as well.
The arena doors remained open as the loud and powerful music filled the room and flowed outside.
My viewpoint was from outside and above these open doors. I don't remember seeing inside the arena with the sold-out show but my perspective remained the same above the doors.
Then something happened. Something very moving.
Something that is hard to put into words but I'll try.
The group of people in the Holy Place left the 'other arena' and started walking into the open doors of the arena. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit came to be worshipped and to meet with His children.
Something in me broke and in the dream I began to weep, mourn and heave greatly. I somehow knew as the Lord was walking into the room that He would be forgotten, unwelcome, not sought after. I simply remember weeping as His steps drew closer to the door and then the group disappeared from my view.
Soon after that, the group was seen leaving those same open doors...in brokeness.
When I woke up, the song from Phil Wickham titled 'EDEN' has been playing in my spirit, which is exactly what I'm listening to as I write this.
The chorus says...
I want to see You face to face
Where being in Your arms is the permanent state
I want it like it was back then
I want to be in Eden
To be naked and unashamed
In a sweet down pour of innocent rain
I want it like it was back then
I want to be in Eden
I am moved this morning to seek the Lord and fast for His presence. Victory has declared a season of revival, June 2-June 8, and I am shaken by the call to seek Him wholeheartedly.
Please hear my heart regarding the dream. I don't believe the dream was meant to bash or rebuke the Christian concert or artist. It was meant to SHAKE and BREAK my hardened heart.
Am I genuine in my seeking of the Lord? Am I prepared to enter the Holy Place? Am I making space for the Living God to visit me and dwell eternally? Am I going with the motions of 'singing' nice Christian songs and yet forgetting the desperate need for a genuine Christ-like walk? Does the Lord feel welcomed and worshipped in my life? If He visits, will He find my heart prepared or will He simply turn around and walk away because I have forsaken and rejected Him?
I know, I know, I know...these are tough questions. But they need to be asked...and answered.
If you made it to this last statement in this blog let me ask you, will you join me in preparing for His visitation? Can we enter, together, into a season of mourning over sin and seeking His comfort? Can we prepare a place where God will greatly desire to come and dwell amongst us?
"Lord, maker of Heaven and Earth, we desire Your presence and power. We want You. Prepare and break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Expose sin. Pierce us with truth. Transform us with Your power. Raise us to new life. We are Yours."
In short, the dream took place in a large city where a large Christian rock concert was to take place with a certain unnamed band (I don't believe the band name is relevant to the meaning of the dream.) Apparently the show was sold out. I had the opportunity to get backstage with the artist and see the set-up. I had free passes to get into the show and the energy around the arena was electric. Lines of people wrapped around the building. At one point in the dream, I walked outside to the crowds of people and announced, "Who wants free passes?" Multiple people rushed me for them.
Outside the arena I remember having access to another arena but it wasn't as pulsating with people. Actually, the access was limited to a few. In the dream, this 'other arena' seemed like the Holy of Holies and the entrance to this mysterious place was small and high up alongside the building. Inside this Holy Place there were 8-12 people that represented the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It was as if the Father was one group of people, the Son another group, and the Holy Spirit yet another group of people. There were men, women and children throughout the groups.
I know this sounds weird and unusual but stay with me here.
The Christian rock show started up, the doors opened and people came running to fill the seats. Smiles. Laughter. Excitement filled the air. You couldn't help be excited as well.
The arena doors remained open as the loud and powerful music filled the room and flowed outside.
My viewpoint was from outside and above these open doors. I don't remember seeing inside the arena with the sold-out show but my perspective remained the same above the doors.
Then something happened. Something very moving.
Something that is hard to put into words but I'll try.
The group of people in the Holy Place left the 'other arena' and started walking into the open doors of the arena. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit came to be worshipped and to meet with His children.
Something in me broke and in the dream I began to weep, mourn and heave greatly. I somehow knew as the Lord was walking into the room that He would be forgotten, unwelcome, not sought after. I simply remember weeping as His steps drew closer to the door and then the group disappeared from my view.
Soon after that, the group was seen leaving those same open doors...in brokeness.
When I woke up, the song from Phil Wickham titled 'EDEN' has been playing in my spirit, which is exactly what I'm listening to as I write this.
The chorus says...
I want to see You face to face
Where being in Your arms is the permanent state
I want it like it was back then
I want to be in Eden
To be naked and unashamed
In a sweet down pour of innocent rain
I want it like it was back then
I want to be in Eden
I am moved this morning to seek the Lord and fast for His presence. Victory has declared a season of revival, June 2-June 8, and I am shaken by the call to seek Him wholeheartedly.
Please hear my heart regarding the dream. I don't believe the dream was meant to bash or rebuke the Christian concert or artist. It was meant to SHAKE and BREAK my hardened heart.
Am I genuine in my seeking of the Lord? Am I prepared to enter the Holy Place? Am I making space for the Living God to visit me and dwell eternally? Am I going with the motions of 'singing' nice Christian songs and yet forgetting the desperate need for a genuine Christ-like walk? Does the Lord feel welcomed and worshipped in my life? If He visits, will He find my heart prepared or will He simply turn around and walk away because I have forsaken and rejected Him?
I know, I know, I know...these are tough questions. But they need to be asked...and answered.
If you made it to this last statement in this blog let me ask you, will you join me in preparing for His visitation? Can we enter, together, into a season of mourning over sin and seeking His comfort? Can we prepare a place where God will greatly desire to come and dwell amongst us?
"Lord, maker of Heaven and Earth, we desire Your presence and power. We want You. Prepare and break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Expose sin. Pierce us with truth. Transform us with Your power. Raise us to new life. We are Yours."
Thursday, April 19, 2012
If Jesus is your Lord, how will people know?
I've recently been challenged with this question...
"If Jesus is your Lord, how will people know?"
Without telling others, how will other people know that Jesus is Your Lord?
Can you measure your faith? Can you measure your spiritual growth?
Can you count the steps forward you've taken in your journey from your previous location?
Can you add up the amount of fruit being produced in your life by the power of the Holy Spirit?
Do others see that fruit in your life?
These are questions only you and the Lord can answer for your life. And I'm not being sarcastic or negative in asking these follow-up questions.
As believers who are passionately pursuing Jesus we need to be honest with ourselves and how we are living out Truth and Light in this world of deception and darkness. Don't give into condemnation through this process but evaluate your life as I have been doing and ask the Lord for His faithful guidance and wisdom.
Here is a simple, but convicting way, you can measure your growth as a Follower of Jesus. It will help you answer the question, "If Jesus is your Lord, how will people know?" Let's learn from the Master Himself...
John 14:15, "If you love Me, obey my commands."
This scripture contains only 7 words but they convicting to the core. Every single believer can easily answer the first 4 words (Yes Lord, we love You!) but the right hook of Jesus' message comes with the last 3 words...'obey my commands.' I sincerly believe we can measure our spiritual growth as Followers of Jesus by knowing and applying His Word (commands), loving His Word (commands) and living it (His commands) out to the fullest. Good fruit comes out of obedience. Submission is the heartbeat of discipleship.
"Lord, we thank You for the grace and mercy You have poured into our lives. We believe in You but help our unbelief. Give us wisdom and guidance to do Your will and obey Your commands. You are compassionate and faithful. We ask that Your precious Holy Spirit produce His fruit in our life. May we grow with every step we take as we follow You Lord Jesus. We long to be Your disciples. Thank You for choosing us. We belong to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
"If Jesus is your Lord, how will people know?"
Without telling others, how will other people know that Jesus is Your Lord?
Can you measure your faith? Can you measure your spiritual growth?
Can you count the steps forward you've taken in your journey from your previous location?
Can you add up the amount of fruit being produced in your life by the power of the Holy Spirit?
Do others see that fruit in your life?
These are questions only you and the Lord can answer for your life. And I'm not being sarcastic or negative in asking these follow-up questions.
As believers who are passionately pursuing Jesus we need to be honest with ourselves and how we are living out Truth and Light in this world of deception and darkness. Don't give into condemnation through this process but evaluate your life as I have been doing and ask the Lord for His faithful guidance and wisdom.
Here is a simple, but convicting way, you can measure your growth as a Follower of Jesus. It will help you answer the question, "If Jesus is your Lord, how will people know?" Let's learn from the Master Himself...
John 14:15, "If you love Me, obey my commands."
This scripture contains only 7 words but they convicting to the core. Every single believer can easily answer the first 4 words (Yes Lord, we love You!) but the right hook of Jesus' message comes with the last 3 words...'obey my commands.' I sincerly believe we can measure our spiritual growth as Followers of Jesus by knowing and applying His Word (commands), loving His Word (commands) and living it (His commands) out to the fullest. Good fruit comes out of obedience. Submission is the heartbeat of discipleship.
"Lord, we thank You for the grace and mercy You have poured into our lives. We believe in You but help our unbelief. Give us wisdom and guidance to do Your will and obey Your commands. You are compassionate and faithful. We ask that Your precious Holy Spirit produce His fruit in our life. May we grow with every step we take as we follow You Lord Jesus. We long to be Your disciples. Thank You for choosing us. We belong to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Revive Us Again
Psalm 85
For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm.
1 You, LORD, showed favor to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2 You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins.
3 You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger.
4 Restore us again, God our Savior, and put away your displeasure toward us.
5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger through all generations?
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your unfailing love, LORD, and grant us your salvation.
8 I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants—
but let them not turn to folly.
9 Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.
12 The LORD will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest.
13 Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.
On Friday, May 4, 2012 at 6:30pm Christians from all over Central Illinois will gather at Victory Christian Center (18180 US Highway 150, Bloomington, IL, 61705) for an evening focused on one theme: REVIVE US AGAIN.
Are you hungry for revival?
Are you longing for it?
Do you desire to see God move amongst us again and transform lives forever?
Are you praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our time?
This Kingdom-minded gathering is all about seeking God with this question from Psalm 85:6, "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?"
Expect intimate worship aimed at exalting the Lord. We won't be holding back at this event! There will be no headliner artist or special guest speaker at Revive Us Again. We're gathering whoever the Lord draws into this evening of pursuing Him.
Tell others. Spread the Word. Talk about revival. Pray for revival. Think about revival. Fast. Pray.
For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A psalm.
1 You, LORD, showed favor to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2 You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins.
3 You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger.
4 Restore us again, God our Savior, and put away your displeasure toward us.
5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger through all generations?
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your unfailing love, LORD, and grant us your salvation.
8 I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants—
but let them not turn to folly.
9 Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
10 Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.
12 The LORD will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest.
13 Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.
On Friday, May 4, 2012 at 6:30pm Christians from all over Central Illinois will gather at Victory Christian Center (18180 US Highway 150, Bloomington, IL, 61705) for an evening focused on one theme: REVIVE US AGAIN.
Are you hungry for revival? Are you longing for it?
Do you desire to see God move amongst us again and transform lives forever?
Are you praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our time?
This Kingdom-minded gathering is all about seeking God with this question from Psalm 85:6, "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?"
Expect intimate worship aimed at exalting the Lord. We won't be holding back at this event! There will be no headliner artist or special guest speaker at Revive Us Again. We're gathering whoever the Lord draws into this evening of pursuing Him.
Tell others. Spread the Word. Talk about revival. Pray for revival. Think about revival. Fast. Pray.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Any day now...
The other day
I know, I know...he looks just like his daddy. Haha! Any way, this picture is definitely cute but a sobering one at that. Here it is parents...OUR KIDS WILL ONE DAY WALK IN OUR SHOES!
Did you know that your church's leadership only gets about 80-100 hours a YEAR with your child?
Not including Sundays or the time you spend sleeping, did you know that as a parent you get over 90+ hours a WEEK with your children? Man, that's convicting to say the least. That's well over 4,000 hours a YEAR!
What's my point, you ask? Check this out...
Who wants revival? Who wants their children to follow Christ? Who wants their children to succeed and be genuine, honest people? We all do! Revival starts in your home!
But we can't rely on only 80+ hours a year to change our kids' lives. I'm not downing the Church. Don't misinterpret this. And please don't think that Elizabeth and I have it all together. We're only in our mid-twenties and we're definitely still learning.
We, as parents, must come back to discipleship in our homes the way God designed and intended it to be. Children learn morals, ethics, character traits and so much more from their parents and the example they live. Does that wake anyone else up? Here's something that challenges me. My kids can sometimes quote movie lines better than scripture! OUCH! Are you with me parents?
We long for revival. Maybe one of the keys is not only prayer and a hope for it but also in how we raise up the next leaders of the Church, a revival generation! I know this is tough to swallow but it needs to be said. I'm so proud of the direction and effectiveness that Victory Christian Center's children's ministry has gone with in raising up children who know God's Word, love God's Word, confess Christ and are not ashamed of it. What if the parents took the next steps and began to disciple their children into following hard after Christ?
Parents, listen, we can use all the words we want but in the end our attitudes and actions will be the example our kids live by. We must learn, love and live God's Word out! Get back to the basics!
One last point. True discipleship is not just becoming a learner. True discipleship is about learning and FOLLOWING à living it out! Jesus told His disciples to 'Come, follow Me!' Why? Jesus was going to teach them Truth and how to live it out. Our kids and others around us need examples to live by. Apostle Paul said, 'Follow me as I follow Christ.' Paul was discipling believers and giving them an example to live by.
Believe me when I say that your kids, right now, are looking for you to lead them.
Now, what are you going to do about it?
Thursday, January 19, 2012
"Ouch! That's gonna leave a mark!"
We've all heard that phrase before after someone did something that physically hurt them or we've even said it ourselves: "Ouch! That's gonna leave a mark!" But what if we used that phrase in a more positive light? What if we used that phrase to challenge us to 'leave a mark' in the world we live in? What if?
From the church you attend, to the place where you call home, to the schools you attend, to the marketplace you encounter everyday...are you leaving a mark? Check out this challenge from Matthew 5 (NKJV).
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
I know I'm asking a lot of 'what if' questions already but let me now challenge you with something that has been stirring in my own life lately. Wherever I go and whomever I come into contact with, I want to leave a mark that says JESUS WAS HERE!
Are we impacting the lives of people around us not just in a positive way but in an eternal way?
Are we willing to put down the remote control, step away from the computer, put down the fork, take the phone call, make the time to minister to people, to comfort people, to be light in the darkness?
As believers we need to impact everywhere we go and everyone we come into contact with. I grew up hearing this: "Wherever you go, take theKingdom of God
As children of the Light, when we step into darkness, darkness should flee and hearts should be convicted by the truth that emanates from us! This is Truth. Read it again in Matthew 5. As salt, we should be used to preserve truth but bring a bitter taste to the mouths of sinners because the Truth convicts and offends! Yes, it offends...and that's okay!
Wherever Jesus went He stirred up religious leaders, convicted hearts with truth, healed people, delivered people from demonic oppression, listened, taught, and ministered! He left a mark wherever He went that said 'Jesus Was Here!' Will you leave that kind of mark on the lives you touch?
More thoughts to come on leaving a mark. Here are some easy Application Points.
From the church you attend, to the place where you call home, to the schools you attend, to the marketplace you encounter everyday...are you leaving a mark? Check out this challenge from Matthew 5 (NKJV).
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
I know I'm asking a lot of 'what if' questions already but let me now challenge you with something that has been stirring in my own life lately. Wherever I go and whomever I come into contact with, I want to leave a mark that says JESUS WAS HERE!
Are we impacting the lives of people around us not just in a positive way but in an eternal way?
Are we willing to put down the remote control, step away from the computer, put down the fork, take the phone call, make the time to minister to people, to comfort people, to be light in the darkness?
As believers we need to impact everywhere we go and everyone we come into contact with. I grew up hearing this: "Wherever you go, take the
As children of the Light, when we step into darkness, darkness should flee and hearts should be convicted by the truth that emanates from us! This is Truth. Read it again in Matthew 5. As salt, we should be used to preserve truth but bring a bitter taste to the mouths of sinners because the Truth convicts and offends! Yes, it offends...and that's okay!
Wherever Jesus went He stirred up religious leaders, convicted hearts with truth, healed people, delivered people from demonic oppression, listened, taught, and ministered! He left a mark wherever He went that said 'Jesus Was Here!' Will you leave that kind of mark on the lives you touch?
More thoughts to come on leaving a mark. Here are some easy Application Points.
- Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in conversations. He'll present an opportunity to be His conduit to flow through if you are willing to obey and trust Him.
- Pray over the place where you live and work. Declare God's Name, authority and praises over your workplace and neighborhood.
- Be careful about what you say. I don't mean political correctness. I mean, watch your mouth. Don't let any course language or perverse-talk even enter your heart to then be repeated. The world sees our fruit and they need to hear believers speaking life and not death.
- There's nothing more contradicting that a Christian who seems mad or depressed all the time. I don't mean to disrespect any believer that deals with depression but I've seen way to many believers always walking around with the heads down! Believers, you are free from the bondages of sin and the world wants to hear and see the truth through you! Smile. Put your shoulders back. Keep your chin up. Laugh and walk in freedom. People will know us by the fruit they see in our lives!
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