A Walk of Faith

My Dreams vs. God's Plans

2012-09-21T20:25:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I hear Christians say, "My dream is to own this or live here or marry this kind of person".

Why is it that as Christians we tend to want things without putting in the hard work to achieve them? Material items such as a mansion, expensive gadgets, sporty vehicles, or the latest fashions in clothing. This could also apply to relationships. "He or she" has to be beautiful, have this income, drive this kind of car, etc.

And what's even more ironic we may happen to know or meet someone who has some of these things and they still want more. Not only that, they may not even seem anymore happy. So what does the Bible have to say about this?

The apostle Paul addresses this topic by addressing "contentment"

He writes in Philippians 4:12-13
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." (NIV)

So Paul is saying he has learned to be content in every situation. He also mentions that he can do everything though Christ who gives him strength.

Isn't interesting that when we as believers decide we want something and want it now our obedience to God mysteriously seems to be less and less?

God wants to be the source of our lives 24/7. He wants us to give over those wants we store up and put them on his shoulders so the burden isn't ours anymore.

Ultimately he is the architect and has designed the blue print for us to glorify him with our lives. God deeply desires that we live a life where it's not about us. It's about Him and what the Holy Spirit does through us to advance the Kingdom of Heaven and bring him all the glory, honor, and praise.

God Bless.

WTS A Simple Formula for Spiritual Growth

2012-09-15T19:20:00.000-06:00

Here's a Biblical formula to grow spiritually in difficult circumstances.

Part One: Wait

Waiting is always hard because as humans we like things to happen right now. God's timing is the best timing for our lives but often it requires a great deal of patience which at times can be very enduring.

Isaiah 40:31 says, "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not be faint. (KJV)"

God has promised in his word he will give us a supernatural endurance when we wait upon Him. Our strength will be renewed. We experience an assurance as if soaring with wings of an eagle. We run and walk through trials with unbelievable energy. Energy that only God can give us through trying times.

Part Two: Trust

After waiting on the Lord we sometimes tend to have doubts. That's when waiting has to be kicked up to a whole new level. The level of trust.

Proverbs 3:5-6 states, " Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

So what God has called his children to do is with everything you have inside you, put your full trust in Him. Step away from your human understanding of a situation and acknowledge the God of the universe for his understanding. When we do this God has promised he will direct our paths in life.

Part 3: Stay Away From Sin

As Christians we sometimes have the tendency to doubt even when we have committed ourselves to fully trusting God in a situation. It's when we take our eyes off Christ we start to sink.

2 Timothy 2:22 reads, "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."

We cannot afford to be creating these doorways of evil desires in our lives. We must stay way from sin and pursue the qualities God would like us to have.

I like the definition a pastor once used to explain what sin is. He replied, "Sin is the very thing that wants to ruin the blessings that God has planned for our lives."

So in summary, First we practice a militant life of waiting upon the Lord. Next we trust the Lord fully. And if there are times of doubt we stay away from the one thing that is designed to ruin God's blessings in our lives - sin and pursue Godly qualities like righteousness, faith, love, peace, and pure hearts.

God Bless,
Be Strong

Being Rejected for Christ

2012-09-12T20:20:00.000-06:00

You know that as Christians we can't go more than a few days before we hear a psychologist or people on a talk show discussing the importance of loving ourselves or having high self esteem. One of the things that floats around society and makes it very difficult to hold a high self esteem is the act of being rejected.

I 'll be honest with you guys. I know what what it means to be rejected. But I know that I am being rejected for the words of Christ in my heart. Not for my human disposition. So how do we deal with perceiving ourselves positively when we are facing rejection?

Well first let's acknowledge that as believers we are in a war. We can't see it but it is still very much a war.

Ephesians 6: 10-12

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

So now we know something very important. When we are being rejected for what we believe in- the negativity towards us is nothing personal. Guys there's no better way to ruin someone's Christian testimony than to ruin their image before their peers. And Satan knows this well. He will turn family members against each other, people in church leadership, husbands, wives, children. He doesn't care. Anything to stifle the Word of God that has become so vocal and life directing in our lives. So how can we as believers prevent being wounded in this spiritual battle? Well, let's keep reading...

13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

These verses talk about some key pieces of armor that need to be in our lives.

Let's apply spiritual wisdom to each piece as it could relate to rejection in a Christian person's life.

The Belt of Truth

The truth as mentioned earlier - it's nothing personal. You have an enemy who is trying to take you out of the game. Don't move keep serving Christ.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Breastplate of Righteousness

Get this- it's important. DO NOT SEARCH. A trial is never a license to sin before a Holy and awesome God. You will go through a refining fire that will burn away some of your pride. The end result is an acknowledgment "it is wiser to live through Christ than to selfishly live through ourselves".

Shoes (or Cleats) of the Gospel of Peace.

Make no mistake about it. There is no peace in God when we turn our backs on him. That's a peace we can only experience when we choose to trust him for everything. And trust God no matter how tough things get- He has a purpose that will work for the good.

28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

Shield of Faith

The Bible calls us to walk by faith not by sight. It also says the just shall live by faith. Look back on the last 5 years of your life and ask yourself this question? Were the tough times I went through impossible? Or did God give me the faith to keep going? And in the end I love him more with my life.

Matthew 17:19-20 "Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, 'Why could we not cast it out?' He said to them, 'Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you."

Helmet of Salvation

When all passes away we will only have one thing. Salvation in our
Lord Jesus Christ. And we will walk those streets of gold knowing our eternity in Heaven we will be forever and ever. Amen

Phillipians 1:5-6
5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Sword of the Spirit

God's word is vital in a spiritual battle. It's the words of truth amongst a den of lies. It's a also a very effective weapon.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Grab your Bible before your heart starts to buy into the Devil's "perfect" but very corrupt solution to dealing with the "cold shoulder".
Ask God to speak words of wisdom through scripture.

The passage ends by acknowledging the importance of prayer

Will you make a promise to God? When you feel people getting cold around you, will you pray for them? They don't know they are hurting you. It's deception from the Devil. Christ is your Rock. Stand on His foundation and Biblical principals. It's the best place you can possibly be. Don't move.

1 Peter 5: 6-11
6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

God Bless

Worrying is Not the Answer

2012-09-09T20:15:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had someone respond to you with the words
"No worries"? What they're saying to you is don't worry right?
Well the Bible talks about not worrying as well.

Mathew 6:34
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

So the Bible is teaching we as believers not to worry about tomorrow.
Today is troublesome enough. So you say, That's not very realistic.
Do I just stop thinking about my problems? Do I just stop caring?

Let's look at verse 33

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

It's not about "I'm going to just stop caring. It's about:

"God, I'm giving you and the Heavens and all that you're about my my undivided attention right now. I don't understand why this has happened or how it will be resolved but your Word promises me if I seek You first and your righteousness, your character God, all these things will be given to me including the remedy to the problem I'm facing right now.

You see guys, it's about redirecting your focus when worry strikes.
The sign of a man or women who is living a spirit-filled life is they never seem to be shook. Sure things happen and they have their concerns but on a whole problems don't shake them. This is because their hope is in the Lord. And their mindset is only upon Christ.

1 Thesselonians 1:5-10
For our gospel did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the holy Spirit and (with) much conviction. You know what sort of people we were (among) you for your sake.

And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, receiving the word in great affliction, with joy from the Holy Spirit,
so that you became a model for all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.
For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth not only in Macedonia and (in) Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything.

For they themselves openly declare about us what sort of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God
and to await his Son from heaven, whom he raised from (the) dead, Jesus, who delivers us from the coming wrath.

Guys, God has seen it all. And he watches over us daily.
Instead of spending time worrying we need to be praying for other Christians and their trials. We need to be praying for those who don't know the Lord and as of now will face the coming wrath on judgment day.

Let's remember we are only but earthen vessels being used to pour out what God is doing in our lives. And ultimately we are represenatives of Christ's power and the soul purpose is to bring him all the glory, honor, and praise.

Amen

God bless
Remember,
No worries

Peace in a Stressful World

2012-09-08T20:05:00.000-06:00

I think we'd all agree that life can be stressful. Three that come to mind are in the areas of relationships, finances, and work. Is it possible if we apply Biblical principals to these areas we can reduce the stress level that each one brings? The answer is yes.

Relationships

Relationships go sour when people stop talking. This is often when someone's pride is hurt from another individual. "I'm not forgiving that person. They hurt me. And now they're gonna know how it feels to be hurt back." And as the walls go up so does the stress. And the peace in your life diminishes. You'll get your peace back when you forgive them.

Matthew 18:21-30
21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
Let's be open to the fact that not all hurt is bad hurt either. A few years ago my Dad said to me, "You know, your money is your God." Did I believe him? No. But he was right. I was worshiping my money. It really hurt my pride to have him say that but the end result was I no longer worship the idea of having a large bank account. I can only serve one master. And that's my Lord Jesus Christ who gives me the wisdom and strength to write these devotions, and continually step into dangerous territory with other Christians so that when the dust settles He seems more real in their hearts.

Finances

Ever had a hard time sleeping cause you're stressed out about finances?
"This month I'm a little strapped for cash. How will I be able to buy groceries?"

It might be about clothes. "My jeans are wearing out. I can't wear these in public anymore. But where is the money going to come from to buy new ones?"
You can regain Peace and gets some sleep in these situations by understanding this simple principal in the Bible.

If God provides for the birds of the air, think how much he cares for you and is interested in your provision.

Mathew 6:25-26

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Work

A person's place of work is a great example of a stressful area because it can involve many stressful dynamics. Work relationships with other employees, supervisors or the boss, money related politics, or the ethics of people you work with like dishonesty, gossip
or insensitive remarks just to name a few. And one day as you're coming home thoughts surface such as "It's not fair" or "I don't need this" And than you realize 'my Peace is gone.

You can get it back. Remember your focus. You serve Christ.

2 Corinthians 25-28

25Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 27I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.

Despite all of the Apostle Paul's sufferings he kept his focus. Grow the early church . And because of his sacrifice and perseverance I write to you today giving all credit to our Lord Jesus Christ and Savior. If you want your peace back ponder this thought. I now know the sacrifice and the sufferings Paul went through to serve Christ. What am I prepared to go through to serve the Risen Savior?

Philippians 4:4-9

4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

God Bless

God, What Do You Want for Me?

2012-09-02T20:00:00.000-06:00

Ever wonder about God's will for your life?
It's really easy to see what his will is. It's what you're
doing right now. So say you are in a church ministry. That's God's will for you. Or you're at a job where you sometimes feel the Holy Spirit calling you to encourage others. I've been there. That God's will for you. Or say you are evolved with a Bible study group and you read the Word and learn to apply it to your life. Again that's God's will. Now you say, Yeah that's all fine but how do I know for sure? Let's dig deeper.

What do all three examples have in common? They all involve serving or learning how to serve.

Jesus upon ascending to the heavens gave this commandment to his
disciples.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,
Mathew 28:19

Now we can't all be pastors walking into different nations spreading the gospel and baptizing people. But what we can do is be salt and light to others.

13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Mathew 5:13-16

Jesus is talking about people with purpose. Just as salt and light have a purpose we need to let Christ work through our words. We need to make him the feet and the hands in our lives to show people the only true way is through the Cross and being redeemed through his blood. The world doesn't promote God. It promotes putting self first, getting ahead in life, and what ever works for that person works. People truly believe that these agendas will provide their lives with happiness or that joy they've been looking for. They won't.

Serge Leclerc director of Sask. Teen Challenge spoke at a breakfast
I attended. In his testimony he talked about the life he had lead and the new life he has found in Christ. I like the way he ended his talk.
"You'll never find it, he said. You'll never find it. It's only through Christ." read more on his official site

I want to encourage you let's live our lives for what pleases God.
Let's share our faith or how we prayed about something when God opens the doors to people we talk to and gives them an openness to salvation. Sometimes it just about acknowledging God in the small
day to day things that gets people thinking. Maybe just saying grace before a meal. As you're sitting at you're computer realize God loved you so much he sent his son to die for you. His will for our lives is to talk about him to others, pray for others, and spend time in the Bible training our minds and hearts for the things he wants for us and in turn the things that will bless others.

What is Sin?

2011-12-30T17:25:00.006-06:00

What is Sin? Sin is anything that God has forbidden his Children (Christians) to do
Any disobedient act towards God is sin. Also sin seperates us from God. So why is it hard to break?

You may have not planned to be reading this right now. If so all the glory and praise to God for misdirecting you. That is and was my prayer when I wrote this blog. That people who were in a time of temptation would be drawn to the truth. - God providing a way out.

1. Realize who is behind it. When we sin we create a doorway of demonic forces to control our lives in that area. Thus making it more and more dificult to get out of bondage (drunkeness, lying, pornography, adultery to name a few)

2 It is only through Christ do we have victory over sin - That means repentance.

3 Start everyday by equipping yourself with "the Armor of God" Ehesians 6

The Armor of God

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵ and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. ¹⁹ Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

Sin is demonic. You need Jesus in order to have the victory

If you don't know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior

Confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord

Believe in your heart God raised him the dead

and you will be saved Romans 10 9-10

see more http://bible.org/article/gods-plan-salvation

One last thing: I f you are a Christian and find yourself exalting something in your life higher than your devotion to God you are very likely inviting demons into the picture to really mess you up. Anything higher than a believer's devotion and love for God is an idol. God hates them and the Devil uses them to make God's children stray and prolong his blessings. Sound familiar?

the Children of Israel

Turning Blessings Into Idols

http://www.keyway.ca/htm2001/20010828.htm

Attention: All Evangelical Professing Christian Pastors

2009-08-17T21:40:00.000-06:00

Click Here to watch a video series on the Roman Catholic Church - Babylonian and Egyption Roots

PBS Documentary - New Age Enters Professing Evangelical Churches

2009-08-17T21:35:00.000-06:00

--"For this to be Christian, then there are answers and limits to what those answers can be." Scott McNight

Roger Oakland - Proclaiming the Gosplel

2009-08-16T23:59:00.000-06:00

Ray Yungen - Invisible Denomination, the New Age

2009-08-16T23:11:00.000-06:00

New Age vs the Bible

2009-08-16T13:31:00.001-06:00

Bible vs New Age and 'gurus'

Emerging Church: Man's Spiritual Journey and the Three Legged Stool - Part 1

2009-08-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

Click here to Watch "The Emerging Church Series"

Message Of Salvation

2008-11-06T15:19:00.003-06:00

This world will pass away. And when its does only one thing will matter.
Where will I spend eternity? Heaven or Hell?

The Bible says all of have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) Unholy people cannot be in the presence of a Holy God. The Bible also says without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin. (Hebrews 9:22)

So God made a way. He sent his one and only begotten son Jesus who was without sin to die on the cross. Jesus became the sacrifice for our sin. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Three days later he arose from the grave and shortly after returned to Heaven to go to prepare a place for those who believe on him. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. (John 14:2)

We can't earn our way to heaven by being good people because being good doesn't correct the sin problem. The only way to heaven is through Jesus. It's about having a relationship with him. Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6) Only through the holiness of Jesus (one who never sinned) can we enter Heaven. By believing on him we receive the gift of being with him for eternity.

That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)

This is often referred to as Giving your life to Christ or becoming Born Again. It is done through a heart felt prayer.

Dear Jesus,

I believe you are the one and only begotten Son of God.
You came in the flesh, died on the cross for my sins and three days later arose from the grave.
I admit I am a sinner. I ask you to forgive me of my sins. From this day forward I turn away from sinful living.
Also, from this day forward I vow to make you the Lord of my life.

The prayer above is a guideline, you do not have to word it exactly like that, but that is the basics of what you should include, just does not have to be word for word. Praying to God is like talking, you can pray out loud or you can pray in your mind, whatever you feel most comfortable doing. Talk to Him with respect as you would your Father, because after all, He is your Father, your Heavenly Father.

After you have asked the Lord to forgive you and truly meant it, you must repent of your sins. What does it mean to repent? It simply means that you stop doing what you know is a sin. If you are cheating on your spouse, or you are a shoplifter, or you hang out in bars getting drunk and wasting money, or hurting people physically or emotionally it is now time to repent and do your very best to stop. We will never be perfect because of sin.

Jesus Christ came to this earth and suffered extreme torment by being beaten to a pulp and then crucified with the weight of all the sins and evil on his shoulders, He who was perfect and had not ever sinned, not once, but He loves us so much, He died for us. Has anyone else you know ever died for you? For most of us the answer is no.

Next step is to find a good church. I go to a Baptist church. You need to find a church that preaches what the Bible says, and ALL of what the Bible says.

If you do not already own a Bible, go buy one that has the New Testament AND the Old Testament. The Holy Bible is God's Word and his Love Letter to you and me, to all of us. Read it daily, perhaps a chapter or two per day, whatever you can do. It will bring you closer to God, this is the LIVING Word of God.

You will find that once you are saved, the things you used to want to do that were sinful, you won't want to do anymore.

Portions of the following text taken from "The Forgiveness Diaries"

official website
www.forgivenessdiaries.com

John McArthur Exposing False Doctrine of Brian McLaren

2008-08-17T21:45:00.000-06:00

Part 2

The Armor of God

2008-06-03T16:52:00.007-06:00

As Christians we have been given a job- to plant the seed of the Gospel. We need to be equipped with the armor of God.

God Bless

Ephesians 6: 10-18

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Godly Living

2008-05-29T19:28:00.005-06:00

As Christians we can't expect to grow close to God if we aren't living godly lives.

We need to obey scripture.

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." (1 Peter 1:13-16)

A Man's Journey

2008-04-29T15:07:00.001-06:00

A man left the antique store with great enthusiasm. He had just purchased a very valuable shield. It would need some work but never the less a very good find. He began to feel
the weight of the heavy shield and realized he needed to get home.

Approaching the busy intersection he noticed the names of the street signs were oddly different. Destiny Ave N.S, and Purpose St. E.W. This discovery left the man very confused. His new treasure was starting to take atoll on his arm and out of desperation he began asking for directions to the people passing by.

"Excuse me Miss, I'm trying to get home. Which way do I go?" The lady replied, go one block north on Destiny Ave. and then go one block south. You should have no problem."

Bewildered he asked another person for help.

"Excuse me Sir; I'm trying to get home. Can you help me find my way?" The gentleman replied, "Take Purpose St. one block east and then head one block west. You can't miss it."

The man now really starting to feel the weight of his treasured shield stood at the intersection absolutely clueless. He quietly muttered to himself, "What are these people talking about? And why are these signs reading N.S. and E.W? Can't these people see something's wrong?”

Just then a stranger in a white robe walked up to the man and handed him an open Bible, smiled and started walking North on Destiny Ave. The man now very tired from carrying his treasure which was almost now becoming a burden put down his shield and began to read from the open Bible.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3: 5-6

"Hmmm, that's interesting”, the man thought. Curiously he watched as the stranger walked up Destiny Ave one block, and continued walking in the same direction. When he reached the second block the stranger began waving his arm beckoning the man to come.

The man became excited and exclaimed, "Finally someone with direction that makes sense.” When he put down the Bible to pick up his shield, the shield had changed. It shone like the sun and seemed weightless. With the other hand he went to pick up the Bible but it was no longer there. The only thing in front of him was a sword that appeared to have a double edged blade and it too shone like the sun.

An arrow suddenly flew past him missing his skull by just inches. The arrow had a label on it that read "Materialism" Another arrow nearly grazed his back. The label on that arrow read "Greed" The man noticed these arrows were oozing with poison. He could see the writing in the poison was filled with endless repetitions of their labels.

Instinctively he grabbed the weightless glorious shield and held it in front of his body. Another arrow flew, this time hitting the shield. The man looked down at his feet. The poison dripping from the arrow read "Doubt" He wrenched the failed arrow from the shield and to his surprise the shield didn't seem to be pierced at all. He carefully picked up the double edged sword in his other hand and began to head toward the surprisingly still beckoning stranger. The whole time the arrows kept coming.

One by one he warded them off, arrows carrying labels of Lust, Pride, Anger, Unforgiveness, Bitterness, Dishonesty, and Unfaithfulness,

He used the double edged sword to slice through unthinkable barriers that were now falling in his path. But he kept heading toward the stranger. When he reached where the stranger had been standing, everything around him had dramatically changed.

He now stood on a hill before three crosses, the middle cross glowing with peacefulness. As the man knelt before the glowing cross he noticed a pool of blood before him. The pool continued to increase and began to flow down the hill and covered the world. In a feeling of absolute awe he felt his body being dipped into the awesome pool of blood and heard a fluttering noise of what sounded like a dove's wings.

When the man opened his eyes he found himself staring at his bedroom ceiling. He glanced over to his computer and noticed there were only a few minutes remaining on the eBay auction. No one had out bid him for a very rare and prized medieval shield.

He heard a voice. The voice said................."Trust me"

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21

Cast Away

2007-12-20T17:32:00.002-06:00

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Anxiety can make life very difficult. It can lead to frustration and even doubting God's
sovereignty. Two things to remember.

Cast all your anxiety on him- this is a command not a suggestion.

because he cares for you- When we try to handle our anxiety it often leads to more anxiety.
As an act of love, God puts our burdens on his his shoulders. We learn to trust him, become more humble and progessively start to acknowledge His control in our lives.

Think of these burdens as a grenade. Our first attempt to handle our problems on our own strength- we pull the pin. Now here's the question. When would be a good time to cast away?

God Bless,

A Change

God's Provision

2007-11-17T15:49:00.000-06:00

Just recently I watched God answer a tremendous need in a close friend's life. It came at pretty much the last available moment.

Why does God's provision seem to come just before the bottom drops out?

If we look at the Story of Moses and the Israelites we can understand why. read full story

With the Red Sea before them and Pharaoh and his army behind them quickly gaining speed, Moses obeyed God and continued to direct the Israelites to the sea. Then came God's provision. The sea was divided and they walked on dry land. Pharoh and and army were wiped out.

If God's provision came in our own designated time frame it wouldn't build our faith in God. It would be more of a Christmas Gift senario than a rescue mission.

So the next time we hear ourselves utter the words,

"Lord, I'm going to need a miracle here!" let's believe. God opened the sea. He can open opportunities.

God Bless,
Mark

Living to Trust God

2007-11-03T17:37:00.000-06:00

I've been praying a lot about being content. Not running ahead of God to fulfill my own desires (which in turn builds my human pride.) Instead- focus on the lifelong goal to put God first. And here's what I have learned.

God's Peace

When I walk away from my first priority (which is serving Christ) I lose God's peace that passes all understanding. Instead I become frustrated. I was once told the definition of frustration is "a blocked goal." It's only now that I'm realizing, "What if God is blocking these human goals from being fulfilled in my time frame because He wants to be the centre of all I do and say?

When I seek other things before him I'm putting his direction in my life on the back burner. Also by operating on human strength I'm clearly not living through Christ's strength.

Because God is all knowing there is probably a good reason my plans (apart from trusting God) are not happening.

Quite simply- If God wants me at point a in life and through my own pride and selfishness I want to move on to point b- I'm clearly disobeying God.

The answer- go back to point a where there was God's peace and trust Him for the outcome knowing His plan and timing in my life are far greater than my own.

God Bless.

Confronting Fear

2007-09-03T08:22:00.000-06:00

It was once said, "the only thing to fear is fear itself"

Sorry. Not buying it. The Bible talks about conquering fear with God's promises.

Romans 8:31, Psalms 27:1, and John 16:33

The same message is apparent in every verse. God is bigger than fear. So if He's speaking to your heart about something that causes fear inside- trust Him, obey Him, and know He goes before you.

God Bless

Matt Redman - You Never let Go

What it means to Trust God

2007-09-02T08:25:00.000-06:00

Trusting God is about a committed relationship of honoring and being faithful to God's plan for our lives sight unseen. As a child trusts their parent- we trust our Heavenly Father."

Satan knows it's difficult at times to trust in what we cannot see. So he brings it on. "You're a fool! How can you be sure? Is it worth it? What will people think?"

Wanna get rid of him?

Announce the blood of Christ. What Christ shed on the cross. It is single handedly the most important event in history because it broke the barrier of sin forever.

God Bless

A Call to Serve - Requirements

2007-08-27T06:26:00.000-06:00

There are people that God chooses to serve him in ways that can only be explained by a supernatural Spirit filled desire.

Longing to help others
desire for the Word
A strong focus on a Godly Heart
A Willingness to be Single (if that's what God wants)
First and foremost seeking Him first. (Matthew 6:33)
A leeriness to being around or influenced by inappropriate material (music, TV, etc.)
Willing to face rejection knowing that suffering= perseverance = character= hope

If you are someone who has experienced this please call me or email me so I can pray for you.
Let's just say I have had some character building happen in my life. Christ never promised a hassle free life rather a life to the full. John 10:10.

His spirit lives through us vicariously making our lives a reflection of him daily if not hourly.

God Bless,

Spiritual Perspective

2007-07-20T10:18:00.000-06:00

1 Peter 5:8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

The Holy Spirit must love when we take the time to memorize scripture because all of sudden we gain God's insight (spiritual wisdom) to what the verse is about. After spending time memorizing this verse the Holy spirit showed me these three things

1 Be self-controlled and alert - As Christians we must recognize our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19.
Every day we choose to either walk in the flesh or in the Spirit. When we deny our flesh we live through the Spirit and God uses our lives to reflect His purpose

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose Romans 8:28

Being alert means being on guard with the edicate in our lives. We don't walk on the edge of right and wrong. That's the slippery slope. We walk far from it. (Thessalonians 5:22 Avoid every kind of evil.)

2 Your enemy - the devil is your enemy when you choose to follow Christ. His tactics range from making people believe there is no God to simply just doubting the Power God has in our lives. It's not a personal Vendetta. It's a spiritual one. If we are not following Christ we are are not going to care about Bible principals being the focal core of our lives thus ministry isn't important anymore in our hearts. The devil knows that if we remain in Christ and Christ remains in us he cannot divert our focus and we will bear much fruit. He also knows if we recognize Christ as the absolute core to our lives we will only see our accomplishments through Christ. Not through ourselves.

John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

3. Looking for someone to devour- The devil goes around looking for people he can devour. Some key factors are a person who doubts, is living in disobedience, has an unforgiving heart, or maybe just isn't taking steps in their faith to draw closer to God. So instead of being devoured we resist him (James 4:7) Sometimes that feels like suffering. But through our sufferings we are soon after restored and made strong only by God himself.

1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Faith only grows when we desire to allow God to himself makes us strong firm and steadfast. Faith is a gift from God. The strength God gives us to endure hardships (hardships that the devil uses to draw us away from God) can be the very same circumstances that draw us closer to God and make us vocal to people who don't know Christ.
God Bless

A Working

2007-07-13T22:47:00.000-06:00

being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

Today was an interesting day. God has been showing me that as Christians we need to live for Him before we can show others that they need Him in their lives. Who are we to want to promote a life in Christ to others if we ourselves are denying his power in our own lives? God wants to work in believer's hearts but he wants those hearts to reflect their lives and evidently affect others who dont know Christ or what it means to accept Him.

What it Takes

2007-06-28T09:32:00.001-06:00

What it takes to know you
What it takes to love you
I give myself as an offering to you

What it takes to praise you
What it takes to honor you
You are the way the life and the truth

When the storm clouds roll
Colliding in the air
Your peace surrounds me
Guiding every where

I want to know you
I want to live for you
I give my life as an offering to you

What it takes to know you
What it takes to love you
I lay my life down before your feet

What it takes to praise you
What it takes to honor you
You sacrificed your life to set me free

When the fire fights
I know you're in control
I hear the thunder crash
But I know it's well with my soul

I want to know you
I want to live for you
I give my life as an offering to you

A Wonderful Revelation

2007-06-27T22:09:00.000-06:00

Wow. What a day. I got majorly attacked. Ever had people accuse you of things you didn't do?
I thought I had seen it all until now. So out of desperation I asked my roomate to pray for me.
And less than a minute later God gave me the wisdom to deal with the problem.
So I learned two things. Number 1- The devil will never give up attacking Christians. Number 2- the only way to ward off these attacks is to surrender human pride and trust God for the outcome.

God Bless,

the Solution

2007-06-26T12:30:00.000-06:00

i hear the sound of splinters
every faithful arrow hitting the center
fear is not an option
when the shield is raised high
the war is never over
but the mature know who is in control
Give God all the Glory, Praise, and honour
and be made whole.

What leaves you broken- In the end it makes you..

2007-06-23T10:16:00.000-06:00

Better - Plumb

You live inside a dream
Everything tastes so sweet
As long as it agrees with how you feel
You're dancing in your sleep
'til all the eyes that look at me
Awaken your anxieties

You're so afraid, so you try to break me
Yeah

I don't want to care
And I don't want to hate
And I don't want to see you fall too far away
Oh because of fear.
'Cause when you're afraid
You lash out and blame
And you say all the things that you never meant to say
And try to break me

But in the end
What leaves you broken
In the end it makes you better

Yeah

Your face it looks so green
When the sun is shining differently
And you're standing in the shade
'Cause face to face you're sweet
Like candy sticking to my teeth
Underneath so damaging

There is no strength in trying to break me
No

I don't want to care
And I don't want to hate
And I don't want to see you fall too far away
Oh because of fear.
Cause when you're afraid
You lash out and Blame
and you say all the things that you never meant to say
And try to break me

But in the end
What leaves you broken
In the end it makes you better

Yeah

I don't want to hate
I don't want to be broken
I don't want to hate you
I don't want to hate
I don't want to be broken
I don't want to hate you

I don't want to care
And I don't want to hate
And I don't want to see you fall too far away
Oh because of fear.
Cause when you're afraid
You lash out and blame
And you say all the things that you never meant to say
And try to break me

But in the end
What leaves you broken
In the end it makes you better

Yeah

Follow Me

2007-06-19T08:37:00.000-06:00

A Short Devotion :)

When I hear the words "Follow Me" what comes to mind is complete trust.

When Jesus said these words to the disciples he gave them one foreshadowing to what they were in for. It wasn't, "You guys will help write the new testament -the second part of the bible and 2000 years later the best selling book of all time. No it was much more simple and to the point.

"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." (Mark 1:17 NIV)

They're new purpose was to catch people for God's kingdom. May I encourage you to trust God. Follow him where ever he is calling you to go. Say whatever He is putting on your heart.

So many times we get stressed because we focus on a small part of the frame when we should be trusting God for the completion of life's painting." His word promises the faithfulness of this completion.

..being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

But notice this is all about God's timing not ours. That is why it's important we trust God and follow him. Not tell God to trust our decisions and follow us. Again scripture is very clear to what happens when we execute this fully dedicated heart of trust.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:4-6

God Bless

"Quiet in your Arms"

2007-06-01T08:56:00.000-06:00

"Small" Amanda Falk

I just need to get away from me
I just need to find some peace of mind
Caught in this game of unmet expectations
I want to leave it all behind
I want to be small
I want to be just like a child
I want to be quiet in your arms
I want to be just like a child
I want to be quiet in your arms
So in that moment when I lose myself
Let the world fade away from me
Give me a moment just to seek the silence
I just want to be set free

"To those who want more and don't know why"

2007-05-31T22:35:00.000-06:00

Ever wanted more than you have?
Ever not seen what you have is valuable?
How about as a person?
Ever wanted to be someone else?
Be good at things that aren't natural strengths?

I've been there.
I am comforted with these words

I made you the way I made you for a purpose.
The purpose wouldn't be there if you weren't who you are.
Embrace your weakness knowing through me you will be made strong
Celebrate your strengths recognizing I am the author of them
And give me all the Glory, Honour, and Praise
for everything that has happened and will happen in your life.

"Treasures in Heaven"

2007-05-26T08:54:00.003-06:00

I am writing this blog because I feel it may help someone.
Here's my story.

In 2000 I bought a 1:18 diecast car on a complete whim. Soon I had a few more. Then I thought I would lesson the cost of what was becoming idols and got into Hot wheels. BY 2001 I had hundreds of them. I knew something was wrong when I realized I didn't care about them yet I
I wanted them to stay in perfect shape. (never been opened) Then I got into "Treasure Hunts"
average value for these is $20-$30. Some go as high as $60 depending how rare. Soon I branched off into figurines. Marvel, DC, even Scooby Do! I know that's a little nuts.

One night I got a call from a collector who had got me a Treasure Hunt - Olds 444. God convicted my heart and told me to sell off.

I went over that night to his place with all my boxes and boxes of stuff. He bought all my treasure hunts. I told him to put the rest on eBay. On my way home someone hit my car which was a piece of junk and I got more from SGI than it was worth.
God had blessed me with cash for a new vehicle without the hassle of getting rid of the old one because I had obeyed.

I sold all the hot wheels. Made very little but felt free inside. Unfortunately the figurines and 1:18 scale didn't move.

In 2oo7 I still had this stuff in a box in my room. I had stopped collecting but this box of toys was starting to bother me. God spoke to my heart very strongly, " Mark I want toys in your life for your children. You're 33. I felt embarrassed. "Then what do I do with this stuff God?" I replied.
God spoke again and said, "Bring it to U-drop-E sell."

Within a day I brought it all down to the store. In the end I got rid of all my toys, sold everything
for almost nothing, but finally had that peace like I wasn't try to overstep God in what would make me happy. The chains were lifted.

People say drugs, alcohol, and smoking are vices. I totally agree. Stuff is also a vice.

In the Bible Jesus clearly states,
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Matthew 6:19

What is the treasure in your life? When you get a paycheck what's the first thing you want to buy? If anyone asked your friends what you value the most what would they say?

God Bless.

"Inspiration"

2007-05-23T21:49:00.000-06:00

Click for more

Keep Going!

2007-05-23T09:48:00.000-06:00

Perseverance is my motto
On this very dizzying roller coaster ride
In every trial I have had no choice but to put God first
Not myself, nor my pride has mattered.

I'm a warrior
Armoured with God's armour
The shield of faith in front me
Obstructing a fleet of arrows

Preventing their poisonous tips from piercing my skin
Onward I marched one year at a time
Involved in the "cross" fire
Now looking back

These years served one major purpose
Before life was about me- my income, my pride, who I wanted to be
Now it's the revelation that God has given me my life is about Him
Others will see Him through me

Willingly accepting "God's truth" spoken through a human voice
So many times I used to go trial and error
Trials will continue but errors will and have decreased
All who ask confidently are given Spiritual Wisdom

Resulting in a man and a life
That is prepared to serve the highest calling ever
Serve Christ

"Face to Face"

2007-05-21T18:22:00.000-06:00

Of all the things I've tried
To gain happiness inside

None of them filled the gap
For fulfillment that I have

None but knowing You
You always see me through

Till the end of my days
When I"ll see You...

Face to face

"A Sobering Thought"

2007-05-21T12:32:00.000-06:00

Jesus said, "I didn't deserve this either, but I forgive you."It may be hard to see how you're going to get through something, but when you look back in life, you realize how true this statement is. Read the following first line slowly and let it sink in.

Lord I love You and I need You, come into my heart, today. For without You I can do nothing.

Click for more

"Enlightened Thoughts"

2007-05-20T15:05:00.000-06:00

Free from all the worries
Deception and the pain
I feel your Spirit rise up
And calm my heart again.

I look towards your Glory
And thank you for it all
Humility is blessed
Pride comes before the fall.

And the things of tomorrow
Only Lord you know
I'll persevere in serving
In me your light will show.

"The Joy of the Lord is my Strength"

2007-05-14T18:36:00.000-06:00

When things crash
people turn away
the money runs out
and when there aren't anymore thrills
There is joy
The Joy of the Lord is my strength.

"Humble Acknowledgement"

2007-05-10T10:35:00.001-06:00

Palms up
Facing your Holiness
Head bowed
Acknowledging Sovereignty

Eyes closed
Your Faithfulness
And then the words
The cry

"Rescue" live by Newsong

You are the source of life
I can't be left behind
No one else will do
I will take hold of you

I need You Jesus
I need You Jesus

My heart is yours for life
I need your hand in mine
No one else will do
Lord I put my trust in you

I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Capture me with Grace

I will follow you
I will follow you

My heart is yours for life
I need your hand in mine
No one else will do
Lord I put my trust in you

I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Whoa capture me with Grace

I will follow you
This world has nothing for me.
I will follow you
This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.
I will follow you
This world has nothing for me.

I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Whoa capture me with Grace

Woah I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Whoa capture me with Grace
Won't you capture me with Grace

I will follow you
I will follow you

This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.

Sing I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Capture me with Grace

Sing I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Capture me with Grace
Won't you capture me with Grace

I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Tell me where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Whoa capture me with Grace

Whoa I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Tell me where else can I go
There's no other name by
Which I am saved
Whoa capture me with Grace
Oh won't you capture me with Grace
Won't you capture me with Grace

I will follow you
I will follow you

This world has nothing for me.
This world has nothing for me.

"A Downward Message of Truth"

2007-05-10T09:30:00.000-06:00

Forgivenes
Redemption
Eradicates the heart
Evolving life in Christ

From one year to the next
Removing footholds of hurt
Onward is the journey to righteousness
Making God first priority

Persuading temptations lose their grip
All and all the mind starts to rest in God's peace
Interests of others become more important- time to serve
No more selfishness

"What is Love?"

2007-05-09T22:25:00.000-06:00

What is love
What does it look like

Is it always agreeing
Or sometimes a fight

Is it about saying the right words
Never rocking the boat

Or saying things out of love
That most people won't

Is it about whispering sweet nothings
All through out the day

Or a progressive journey to maturity
And all the bumps along the way

How about the structure of love
Or maybe it's direction

Does it come from God
Or merely superficial affection?

"That's My Home"

2007-05-09T22:00:00.000-06:00

The world could never give me everything
My heart rests in the peace you bring
And I cling to the promise in your word
No eye hath seen, no ear hath heard

That's my home

"I Shall Believe"

2007-05-07T10:42:00.000-06:00

song by Matt Brouwer

Come to me now
And lay Your hands over me
Will You find me tonight
Say it will be alright
And I will believe

Broken in two
I know You’re on to me
That I only come home
When I’m so all alone
But I do believe

That not everything I gonna be
The way you think it ought to be
It seems like everytime I try and make it right
It all comes down on me
Please say honestly You won’t give up on me
And I shall believe

Open the door
And show me Your face tonight
I know it’s true
No one heals me like You
And You hold the key

Never again will I turn away from You
I’m so heavy tonight
But Your love is alright
And I do believe

"Freedom in Christ"

2007-05-07T08:10:00.000-06:00

Freedom in Christ is
All about serving others-not ones self anymore
It's recognizing that greater things are accomplished through Christ
Than through ourselves

So the next time the Holy Spirit puts it on your heart to call someone.
Call them.
And experience the joy of the Lord will be your strength.

God Bless

"God's Generous Response to Boldness in Prayer"

2007-05-01T01:04:00.000-06:00

Here's a great message by John MacArthur. So many times we hear about the importance of the Holy Spirit and the gift he is in our daily Christian lives. Dr. MacArthur digs deep into the understanding that God has given us more than good gifts. He's given us the Source. Click here and enjoy!

"The Rescue"

2007-04-30T23:29:00.000-06:00

stubbornness, loneliness, low self-esteem,
worthlessness, hopelessness, depression,
bitterness, hate, anger, jealousy,
greed, pride, lust, envy,

perversity, crude language, ungodly thoughts,
drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, sexual immorality,

"I'm done Lord. May my desires and life reflect You and your ways.

"The shackles have been lifted... Live"

"The Gift that Only You Can Give"

2007-04-23T13:06:00.000-06:00

Thank you Lord
For your Grace
A grace that is given in your Son
For in Him
I've been enriched
All I speak
All my knowledge from

It's all because my life's
been bought in Christ

How great you are
How great you are
A message like no one
Salvation in your Son

How wonderful you are
Wonderful you are
Thank you for the gift
That only You can give

Oh Lord
You've been so good to me
Given me new life
And life eternally

When I fall
You pick me up
Put on my feet
And show me it is well
With my soul
With my soul

How great you are
How great you are
The reason why I sing
You're my everything

How wonderful you are
Wonderful you are
Thank you for the gift
That only You can give

Prince of Peace
King of kings
The River of Life

Wonderful Counselor
Redeemer
the Beginning and the End

How great you are
How great you are
The reason I rejoice
The truth is in your voice

How wonderful you are
Wonderful you are
Thank you for the gift
That only is in You yeah

Thank you for the gift
That only You can give

"There's No Such Thing As Perfect"

2007-04-19T13:16:00.000-06:00

I've tried so many times
to get things right they just had to be great
And I know that never works
It builds my pride not my faith

So I surrender this part
I give you all my heart

There's no such thing as perfect
It doesn't even happen
But if you give your heart to Jesus
Things will happen

The only thing that matters
Is a heart for God in serving
It gains eternal value
And when things get rough...

It stops the searching.

"They that Wait Upon the Lord"

2007-04-15T14:29:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 40:31 - But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint. (KJV)

One of the most difficult places God will take you is by telling your heart this.

"I know you want certain things, even at times feel you need things such as a relationship, or feel there's a relationship that needs to be mended. But you have to trust me.

You have to trust that my timing is the best. And in the mean time while you are waiting to hear from me: I will teach you what it means to serve, in all things be cheerful, and develop a strong devotional and prayer life. When it's all over (your own tailor made boot camp) you will see I was in control the entire time.

I just wanted to see you love me with your life. Not just with words-with action. Loving me is the way you treat people who you feel have wronged you. It's about breaking down that wall of pride. Focusing on more than just hurt feelings or emotional frustration. Serving me is about being a soldier. It's about seeing the "Big Picture". Me.

"Spiritual Perspectives"

2007-03-28T13:46:00.000-06:00

Who Am I?

I've been called a warrior and a weapon for Christ.
I will wage war on “footholds” pride, lust, selfishness, for the rest of my life.
As a soldier I will cut through this garbage in my life with a freshly sharpened sickle, or sword- the Word.
My strength is fully coming from Christ.
In my heart I have seen a mountain cast itself into the ocean
or move from here to there.
I'm a voice. Not in in a desert but in a desert life.
His Spirit cuts through to the bone and marrow and resounds conviction.

At five seven and barely one hundred and fifty pounds I am fully equipped to do God's work.
Discouraging the flesh, encouraging the Spirit.

When you see me and I start talking about Christian things, I'm not there anymore. I will volunteer my body and mouth to cause the Holy Spirit to start a good work in you.
I'm not stubborn. I'm obedient. You just can't physically see my chief and commander.

Who am I?
It's not about me. It's about Him.

...because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

"Mild Persecution"

2007-03-13T13:12:00.000-06:00

So I've been slammed many times by people saying things like,
Are you sure God is telling you these things? (Well, what they mean is the Holy Spirit)
Anyways today I felt the Holy Spirit calling me to go to the library and blog. I booked a computer for an hour (I only have 45 min. left) Getting to the library early I sat down on a bus bench and started reading one of my books. Whamm!! I tasted blood on my lower lip. I looked down and saw all this snow on my shoulder and book I was reading. When I looked up I saw this young guy hanging out of the window of a mini van driving by. Oh yeahhh.. he said smugly.
I had been hit in the face by a snowball from a guy in a moving vehicle. The thought crossed my mind, What are the odds of him hitting me in a moving vehicle? That's when the Holy Spirit showed I was being attacked prior to this message I'm writing right now.

I said victoriously, "Praise the Lord".

"Called to Persevere"

2007-01-24T23:59:00.000-06:00

Trust the Lord
Acknowledge him in all your ways
Lean not on your own understanding
Keep praying; pray without ceasing.
Teach what God has taught you from making mistakes
On every battlefield there is one who remains victorious- Jesus.
Make every day a day to serve God and let Christ's light shine through you
Every good and perfect gift comes from above ...

"What it Means to be a Servant"

2007-01-14T23:21:00.000-06:00

Jeremy Camp writes amazing songs of coming before God with a humble heart ready to serve him at any cost. Here are the lyrics to another "servanthood" message.

"My Desire" Jeremy Camp

You want to be real
You want to be empty inside
You want to be someone laying down your pride
You want to be someone someday
Then lay it all down before the King
You want to be whole
You want to have purpose inside
You want to have virtue and purify your mind
You want to be set free today then lay it all down before the King

Chorus:
This is my desire
This is my return
This is my desire to be used by you

You want to be real
You want to be emptied inside
And I know my heart is to feel you near
And I know my life
It's to do your will
It's to do your will

(Chorus)

All my life I have seen where you've taken me
Beyond all I have hoped and there's more left unseen
There's not much I can do to repay all you've done so I give my hands to use

(Chorus)

"Wanting to be Wanted"

2007-01-12T23:57:00.000-06:00

One of the greatest needs people have is wanting to be wanted. It's amazing how quickly our lives can crumble when we don't feel wanted. But we are.

God wants us very much. No matter how many times we make mistakes He still wants us and will never leave us. "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:4-6

The context of this verse is talking about keeping our lives free of the love of money and be content with what we have. I find it interesting that some of the hardest times to follow God are when I choose not be content with my finances or what I have. So many things like this seem to determine our worldly value; how we are accepted or wanted by the world's standards. God's standards are much different. We have all the worth we need because he loves us and accepts us unconditionally.

If you are going through a tough time feeling truly wanted or appreciated it may be a "world acceptance" you are chasing. Ask God to help you take your focus off those things that are conditional and put your focus on someone who wants and accepts you unconditionally to the point of giving his life for you- Christ.

God Bless.

"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" by Helen H. Lemmel

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion—
For more than conquerors we are!

His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!

"Overcoming Temptation"

2007-01-12T11:54:00.000-06:00

The world is full of temptaton. We know as Christians we can't be effective in our faith if we are constantly giving in to it. In this audio message Fred Wilson begins his "Temptation Series" with Tools God Can Use - Part 1 taken from Romans 6:8-14
Download MP3

Click here to view other audio messages by Fred Wilson.

"Saved by Grace"

2007-01-11T09:54:00.000-06:00

It's an amazing thought that God has saved Christians by grace. We can't earn our way into heaven. It's a gift.

It reminds me of the story of a young man who stood before a judge in regards to paying a speeding ticket. The judge ordered the young man to pay the ticket and then asked to see him in his chambers. When the young man walked in he saw the judge take off his robe of judgment, reach into his wallet and pull out $300.00. He handed the $300.00 to the young man saying, "Your debt has been paid in full." The young man looked at his father and said, "Thanks Dad!"

How often do we say "Thanks Dad" to our Heavenly Father? Because of our sin we were destined to spend eternity in Hell. Go loved us so much he sent His Son Jesus who was completely innocent of any sin to pay the debt we could not owe.

God Bless.

"Just the Way I Am" Big Daddy Weave

Unbelievable, I’m blown away it’s true
By the matchless love that I’ve found in You
Undeniable, the change in me
I’ve never felt so free

It makes me want to dance
You make me want to dance
When I think about how

You love me, You love me
You love me just the way I am
You love me, You love me
You love me just the way,
Just the way I am

Ever patiently accepting me
You love in spite of everything I do
But oh so faithfully
You’re committed to the process that makes me like You
And I feel like I can dance
Oh You make me want to dance
When I think about how

Not when I’m good enough
Not when I clean my act up
Not when I cross that line the thousandth time
And become a better man
Your grace is more than enough
To cover all my sins You washed them away
So right here today
You love me just the way I am

"Hearing from the Heart"

2007-01-10T16:53:00.000-06:00

It's not always easy for me to understand that God speaks into my heart to give me direction and wisdom. It's even harder sometimes to understand that He will speak words into my heart to encourage other believers or protect them from mistakes. Click on one of the links to hear a very important audio message by Derek Prince called Hearing from the Heart
Download MP3

Click here to listen to more messages from Derek Prince Ministries.

"No Compromise"

2007-01-10T14:52:00.000-06:00

Talk to any olympic athlete and you'll soon see a strong theme radiantly shining in their training. "No compromise". It's up at the crack of dawn to swim laps, hit the gym, or run miles. Always trying to excell to a higher level, be better, to be the best. Motivated by one thing- the prize.

Christians have a prize. It's called salvation. One day we will be joint heirs of the Kingdom of God. Where everything is perfect and Holy.

But in the meantime we too are athletes spiritually. And we're in a race.
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. " 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NIV)

Can I encourage you, though we're not going get it right all the time;
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," Romans 3:22-24
if we try to excel in our relationship with Christ he will give us the strength to make daily progress in areas of plagued weaknesses.
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

So here's to the new months ahead. And a little phrase that packs a lot of punch- "No Compromise".

God Bless.

Q. What's grey and black, has 4 eyes, and white all over?
A. Mark delivering "return to sender" mail in a blizzard!

"Needs Being Met?"

2007-01-09T22:34:00.000-06:00

Here's another great message by Charles Stanley-"How to Get Your Needs Met God's Way"

"There are three kinds of people in this world. Those that are good at math, and those that aren't."

"Spiritual Discernment"

2007-01-03T18:08:00.000-06:00

Here is a devotional from Dr. Charles Stanley

READ 2 Peter 3:14-18

Spiritual discernment protects us from deception. Sin is always dressed up to look tempting. So if we think that what looks good and feels right must be okay, then we're in danger of being misled. When Satan tempts us, he never mentions consequences or negative impacts.

Spiritual discernment is our God-given capacity to judge what is right and wrong. It protects us from the suffering that goes along with disobedience. Ignoring anxiety in our spirit—which Dr. Stanley calls "spiritual static"—is a step onto the pathway of sin.

When looking for a radio station, we want clear reception. The same is true in life. We need a clear connection to the Holy Spirit. It will give us a sense of peace and assurance that we're doing the right thing.

Sometimes an opportunity might appear harmless or, more likely, very appealing. But if the Holy Spirit inside us sends a signal not to pursue that opportunity, then we shouldn't. For some reason, God does not want us in the situation. And though we can wonder, we may never know what danger we avoided by being obedient.

Sin does not initially appear as the ugly, deceitful disobedience it is. Instead, it comes wrapped in a pretty package that can be hard to resist. God's children can see past the glitter and false beauty if they choose to look. This spiritual wisdom comes only as the result of a clean heart and discerning spirit. A smart believer makes prayer, repentance, and biblical training a regular part of his or her routine.

"It's Truly Amazing"

2007-01-02T21:50:00.000-06:00

"Miracle" John David Webster

I love the way you touch me, I'm so amazed
Your beauty speaks a thousand words,
and then it takes my breath away
You burn me up like fire,
and then you pour on me like rain
It's truly amazing, like a miracle

Chorus:
I see you in the sun that shines in the sky
I hear you in the sound of the oceans tide
I feel you in this gentle breeze tonight
I try to explain it,
It's a miracle to me

You can move my mountains, you still my soul
You whisper to me like the wind, but it shakes me to the bone
Your Spirit takes me far away, but I feel just right at home
It's truly amazing, like a miracle

Chorus:

Truth be told
I just wasn't one for miracles
Let's just say I've changed my view
Cause loving you I've been awaken
The earth starts quaking
I'm blown away I'm overtaken
By the miracle, the miracle of you

Chorus:

Oh Yea, Oh Yea a miracle to me

"Weighing the Pros and Cons of Obeying"

2007-01-02T20:22:00.000-06:00

Today God has been showing me an interesting phenomenon that Christians like myself can get caught up in from time to time. It's called weighing the pros and cons of obeying.

Why do we do this? Well maybe because we are afraid of doing what God is telling us to do so we try to see in our minds what we have to gain or lose. I don't know if you're like me but when I start weighing the pros and cons of obeying I often skip over the pros because I really don't know what can result positively by obeying God. Now for the cons.

What if I'm made fun of?
I may lose friends
Look self righteous
Cause bitterness, anger, awkwardness, tension, etc.
What if I'm hated for stepping out?

The Bible is full of stories of men and women who were challenged to obey God.

Jonah wall called to preach against the very wicked city of Nineveh. He was afraid and fled to Tarnish on a boat. After being tossed overboard in a violent storm and spending 3 days and 3 nights in the belly of a fish and then thrown up, he obeyed and went to Nineveh. The King and his people turned from their evil ways. God had compassion and spared Nineveh of the threat of destruction. read full story

Then there's the story of Joshua and the Walls of Jericho.

The Lord called Joshua to take his army and march around the city walls of Jericho once a day for 6 days. On the seventh they were to march around the city walls 7 times with the priests blowing trumpets and the people making a loud noise. And the walls fell! read full story

When the Lord approached these 2 men with their assignments Jonah ran away whereas Joshua ran toward.

Can we go into the New Year like Joshua fearing nothing and looking to gain everything for God's Kingdom?

"More Christian Lyrics"

2007-01-01T15:24:00.000-06:00

Here's 3 songs God has put on my heart to share with guys:

"I Can't Do This" Plumb

I woke up late.
Guess I'm never really early.
I hesitate,
Only to fail.
I get so tired
Of procrastinating.
I need a change.

I can't do this.
I can't do this.
I can't do this by myself.
I can't do this.
I can't do this.
Oh God, I need your help.

I'm standing still,
Moved so peaceful.
I can't pretend
That I'm fine.
I get so ill,
Crazy, agitated
When I'm not really dying.

I can't do this.
I can't do this.
I can't do this by myself.
I can't do this.
I can't do this.
Oh God, I need your help.

Press into me.
(Press into me.)
Breathe the air.
(Breathe the air.)
Bask in me.
(Bask in me.)
You'll be free
To do anything.

I can't do this.
I can't do this.
I can't do this by myself.
I can't do this.
I can't do this.
Oh God, I need your help.
I can't do this.
I can't do this.
I can't do this by myself.
I can't do this.
I can't do this.
Oh God, I need your help.

................................................................................................................

"I Stand for You" Tree63

Jesus, I stand for You
No matter what You lead me through
They will chase me out, and close me down
but Jesus, I stand for You

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

Jesus, I've stood my ground
When unbelief was all around
I have felt the sting rejection brings
but Jesus, I still stand for You.

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

A time will come when everyone
will turn their eyes on the risen son
Until that day, this world will turn away
So I'll take your hand, I'll always stand for You

Guilty of disgrace, but You took my place
Jesus, I'll always stand for You.

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

For you
I'll always stand for You

................................................................................................................

"Smile" Chris Rice

How far are you, how close am I
I know your words are true and I don't feel them inside
Still I believe you'll never leave
So where are you now

You're all I have, You're all I know
Your breath is breathing in my soul
Still I am gasping, aching, asking
Where are you now

Cause I just wanna be with You
I just want this waiting to be over
I just want to be with You
And it helps to know the Day is getting closer

Every minute takes an hour
Every inch feels like a mile
Til I won't have to imagine
And I finally get to see You smile

My journey's here, but my heart is There
So I dream and wait, and keep the faith, while You prepare
Our destiny, til You come back for me
Oh, please make it soon!

Cause I just wanna be with You
I just want this waiting to be over
I just want to be with You
And it helps to know the Day is getting closer

Every minute takes an hour
Every inch feels like a mile
Til I won't have to imagine
And I finally get to see You smile

I just wanna be with You
I just want this waiting to be over
I just want to be with You
And it helps to know the Day is getting closer

I just wanna be with You
I just want this waiting to be over
I just want to be with You
And it helps to know the Day is getting closer

Every minute takes an hour
Every inch feel like a mile
Til I won't have to imagine
And I finally get to see You

Every minute takes an hour
Every inch feel like a mile
Til I won't have to imagine
And I finally get to see You smile

"A New Year Ahead- Time for Resolutions"

2006-12-31T19:42:00.000-06:00

I guess my resolutions for 2007 are as follows:

Trust God more (I'm only seeing a small part of the picture frame. God has seen and designed the whole painting right down to the tiniest details that have glorified Him.

Friendships must be a priority. I'm not naturally one to gravitate to people. But as a Christian it is essential in building the body. It also creates a support system for brothers and sisters in Christ so that the world's lies don't easily sway them.

I need to listen more. This is not one of my strengths. But I've been watching how God has been changing my conversations with people. It's time to bring people in more. Really pay attention to what they are saying.

Less Stubbornness. Believe it or not I'm a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to computer graphics or web design. I don't know if you guys noticed but I created my links to open in new windows saving the problem of the reader accidentally closing out the blog page.
But getting back to stubbornness God is teaching me that it's not the presentation that matters-it's the message. So I guess my roommates will get a chance to use the computer more! (lol)

More quality time in the Word. I've been reading the book of Acts. At first I was very captivated and inspired with the stories of the early Church. But as I progressed along it took more of me to become interested in what I was reading. I want to create discipline in a life of learning from my devotions the same way I prepare meals or have routine workouts every week which brings me to my next resolution.

Having Workouts that are put in the right perspective. Not vanity. Discipline. One of the most difficult parts of a person's life is discipline of the body. It can be done but it takes a great deal of prayer and a willingness to want to change.

Having a mind for Godly things. I want with everything inside of me to focus my mind on God. It's when I don't - I create my own problems. I don't want to be one of those Christians anymore that when reverting to moments of sin hear the words in their heart "You've been here before. Don't do this. It brings the same dismal result every time..."

"Switchfoot Lyrics"

2006-12-27T19:48:00.000-06:00

"Golden"

(Like freedom in spring)

She's alone tonight with a bitter cup and
She's undone tonight, she's all used up,
She's been staring down the demons
Who've been screaming
She's just another so and so,
Another so and so

You are golden,
You are golden, Child
You are golden,
(Don't let go)
(Don't let go tonight)

There's a fear that burns like trash inside
And your shame of the curse that burns your eyes
You've been hiding in your bedroom,
Hoping this isn't how the story has to go
It's not the way it goes,
It's your book now,

You are golden,
You are golden, Child
You are golden,
(Don't let go)
(Don't let go tonight)

You're a lonely soul in a land of broken hearts
You're far from home, it's a perfect place to start

(Yeah!)
(Burn)
(Burn, Burn!)

So this final verse is a contradiction
And the more we learn the less we know

We've been talkin' about a feeling,
We both know inside but couldn't find the words
I couldn't write this verse,
I've seldom been so sure,
About anything before

Golden,
You are Golden, Child

You are Golden,
(Don't let go)
(Don't let go tonight)

This world is a dead man down (Golden, you are)
Every breath is a fading crown we wear (Golden, Child, you are)
Like some debilitated king (Golden, don't let go)
Don't let go tonight

The Earth spins and the moon goes round (Golden, you are)
The green comes from the frozen ground (Golden, Child, you are)
And everything will be made new again (Golden)
(Like freedom in spring) (Golden, Golden)

Hey, like freedom in spring, (Golden, you are, hey)
Like freedom in spring (Golden, Child, you are)

(Gold...)

"Love, Dating, Relationships - Godly?"

2006-12-27T12:23:00.000-06:00

No blog is complete with the writer's two cents on love, dating, and relationships right? Well this one will have a slightly different perspective. I'm going to share with you what God has been showing me about this.

"God must come first."

First and foremost God must come first. You will never and I repeat never know what it's like to experience a Godly relationship if you or your mate doesn't make God his/her first priority. Now you may say,

"Mark, that's kind of a bold statement isn't it?"
True. But let me explain further.

If you truly want to experience true love in a relationship with someone they need to have God's love for you. Like Christ has for the Church. They must love God more than they love you or will ever love you and you must be prepared to do the same back.

Have you ever met someone who strangely always put God first? Even when they were thrown a relationship opportunity they felt the need to pray about it first? Who do think is control of that person's life? The world would say they were nuts, or they should just go for it. But they are in a totally different boat and no matter what storms come along, as long as they are putting God first they will never sink. Why? Because the love they are living for is God's love and nothing can separate us from it.

"For I am persuaded beyond doubt - am sure- that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities nor powers, nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38,39

"Skin Deep is as shallow as it sounds."

Have you ever been talking to someone and they share with you how they just met the man or woman of their dreams? Well I have news for them. Dreams can also be nightmares. That's like being on a motor boat heading full speed straight for a beautiful exotic island but having no knowledge of how to slow the thing down. Unless you've got the ultimate form of direction (God's direction) you're likely heading for a crash.

"God is interested in building a compatibility structure in a relationship not just a physical attraction."

I like the story of the woman who would only date tall guys. If they weren't tall she would say, "He's nice but he's just not my type." So she dates and soon marries a tall guy. Now every time she wants to get a box of cereal from the cupboard she needs to stand on a chair. She explains this inconvenience to her husband but he refuses to compromise. Says it hurts his back to be bending to reach things. "

"If you weren't so short we wouldn't have this problem," he retorts. She says nothing. A strain falls on the first few months of the marriage.

Then there's the guy's story. All his friends know him as having the highest standards for women. He won't date anything less than a "ten". So he dates and soon marries a women who in his mind is a drop dead gorgeous bonafide "ten". Until he meets her friends. Who just happen to be 11's and 12's. All of a sudden there's an ongoing strain on the marriage in regards to flirting. Hmmm... I wonder why?

Both stories have something in common. They were both based on superficial foundations. The only foundation is Christ. The strongest compatibility is with someone who truly lives out their salvation. Not just a church service. It's a 24/7 passion to serve God. And the privilege to serve God with them is nothing more than a small miracle and a tremendous blessing and gift from heaven.

In summary, the next time you feel you need someone romantically in your life ponder these thoughts:

1. What am I doing as a single person to serve God's Kingdom?

2. Am I willing to wait and trust God that in the event I were to meet someone he/she would be there to help me serve God and their DNA would compliment my life in ways that would only make me enjoy life more?

God bless.

"God Go Before Me"

2006-12-27T08:52:00.000-06:00

I throw on my leather jacket, grab my Bible, and start heading for the hall. As I approach the steps I can almost hear the rat-a-tat tat of the drummer and the bugle sounding the battle cry.
It's time to do war. My last words before leaving the house; "God Go Before Me".

I wonder if David didn't say something similar to this as he approached the hill where a man 3 times larger than him stood fully armored and more than ready to kill him making him a cruel spectacle to all of Israel.

David's words were:

"You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."

And the rest is history.

Are you facing any spiritual giants in your life? It may be what's starting to become some type of addiction and you can hear the Holy Spirit saying softly in your heart, "Let it go. Trust me."
It may be someone who you don't talk to anymore or a former relationship and as a Christian you can feel God telling you the wall being put up is not right. But deep down inside you feel like David approaching Goliath. The odds seem so heavily stacked against you.

I don't know who's going to see this blog. I trust God will direct the people that are in need of reading it though. Say this prayer with me:

God, I don't know what to say or what to do to make things right in this situation.
I just know that it won't happen unless I turn to you so that's why I'm praying right now.
Please give me your strength to take this on just as you went before David. Be my words God. Like your word says,

If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:28-31

In Christ's name,

Amen.

"To be Content or Not Content"

2006-12-26T21:13:00.000-06:00

So many times I hear people talking about wanting new things. Ipods, PS3's, guitars. Yeah I'm sure those would be nice and all but how do they make a person more happy?

Doesn't happiness really come from the feeling one gets when spending time with people they love or like or serving with a ministry or charity? I'm learning that for me the desire to buy something new isn't so much about the new thing. It's more about the fact I bought it. And though it seems great at the time there's no guarantee it's going to be great six months later. If it's an electronic item it may even be outdated.

So how does one decide what they should buy or not buy? Well, needs are easy. Food, clothing, shelter, etc. But what about wants? I've been praying about this and God has shown me to look a lot deeper than just the act of wanting new things. He has shown me that every desire starts with a thought. How far we take those thoughts is our choice. But if we put these buying conquests at a higher priority than God we very quickly become a slave to our “buying” and unfortunately there is no end to any of it.

I used to collect toy cars (Hotwheels) and figurines. To be blunt it was never my heart. I just desired to have something that was considered rare or sought after. God kept showing me the words of the Apostle Paul.

"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."Galatians 6:13-15

I was fanatical with my collectibles. Some stuff I wouldn't even take out of the boxes. I was obsessed with the condition. A scratch would bother me because in my mind my collectible had lossed value. I no longer had the pristine packaged figurine anymore. I didn't see it at the time but it was never about the stuff. It was a reflection of my worth. Deep down inside I didn't want to be known by my friends as the adult who collected toys but I was trapped.

About the middle of September I felt the Holy Spirit calling me, “Mark sell off your stuff”.

So I did. Took a huge loss but basically got rid of everything except for a gift. I'll never forget the feeling I experienced after that. Even though the world would have said I had been severely ripped off, I didn't care. A huge weight had been lifted. It literally felt like shackles dropped from my feet and hands. I was free. And the worth I had felt at that time was priceless.

Now that I'm not looking to further any kind collection of things in my life I feel quite content. God has called me to forget about the pursuit of my happiness through stuff. Instead focus on building friendships with people.

"Memoirs of The Younger Years"

2006-12-21T11:00:00.000-06:00

I was never a big diary person or into journaling but hey I guess it's worth a try. Who knows- a journal like this may even get me to bear my soul a bit taking me on a personal journey to my days of youth. Not that I feel 90 or anything.

I remember when kids at camp used to torture innocent creatures. We would be all dressed up for chapel and these kids would find it cool to see what would happen if you took a frog and cut off his legs. How utterly cruel! Maybe those kids grew up to be surgeons or something. I was always amazed at how much kids could get away with at camp.

I didn't live in the city growing up. I grew up on an acreage 20 miles south east of Prince Albert. When I was quite young my brother and I would play all day and then be in bed at around 8:00. Wide awake I would listen to every cricket singing like a very poorly rehearsed church choir without any sense of musical tone. Even though I wasn't tired I guess they would eventually put me to sleep!

I remember when I was about 11 or so after supper we would get out the softball and a bat. My brother and I would go outfield while Dad would crack out pop flies. The idea was to get 10 catches in a row. We would get treats after.

I was always a dreamer. And I was deeply intrigued with Medieval times after seeing the Disney remake "A Kid in King Arthur's Court". I ran this imaginary story in my mind where I would be walking toward the pasture and all of a sudden I would be back in in the 1600's approaching a majestic castle. Sometimes I would dream that very scenario but it always seemed to end where I was thrown into a dungeon or was soon to be executed.

As I got older I started to take being a Christian a lot more seriously. When I was 14 or so I started having these dreams where I waged war with a sword and searched my mind on every scripture verse I had learned to battle these demonic beings that just seemed to appear. My sensitivity to spiritual activity had started.

When I was 16 the funnest activity in the world became playing guitar. I would go out and buy every guitar magazine I could find that inspired me. I knew that crossed a line. Dad hated hard rock and unless there's been a brain transplant done in the last 17 years- probably still does. No Kutless CD for Christmas Dad! I guess you'll have to settle for Chuck Swindall. (lol)

On the adventuresome side Dad bought my brother and I a go-cart. It was unique. A guy in the Prince Albert Pen made it. A bobcat-operator owed money for a sign job my Dad had done for him ( My Dad was and is a Sign Painter/Sign Maker) The operator and my Dad agreed to digging out a dirt path. It was more like a series of roads that weaved and winded all throughout the trees and bushes that marked the boundaries of our acreage. They are still their today. When I go out to see my parents on Thanksgiving I sometimes go for a walk down them. Popular trees on either side and layers of leaves crackling with every step. Anyways, I digress. Back to the go-cart story. Even though there was only room for 1 person comfortably we pushed the envelope and tried to ride with 2 or 3 adventure freaks. I remember we used to crash it a lot. It didn't have the best brakes. Those machines get shaken up bad even when your riding safe and normal. Countless times we had to tighten the screws on the carburetor and readjust the throttle but it was still fun.

Ya know for someone who claims he's not into journaling there sure was a lot of writing done for my debut. Not to mention quite the trip down memory lane.

God bless.