As the business of Christmas rolls in, trying to manage shopping, parties, your children's activities, family, traveling, cooking, etc. can add a lot of stress and anxiety to your already full schedule. There are a few things that help us keep perspective:
1. Keep it Simple. Pastor Jason challenged us all over the past two weeks to "keep it simple" with Christmas this year. That doesn't mean you can't enjoy festivities and parties, gifts and favors, but it does mean not overextending yourself to so many commitments that you cannot enjoy the true gift of Christmas: the Presence and the Love of God fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ.
2. Rest. You need rest, especially when you've added xyz to your usual schedule! Try to schedule down time in order for you and your family to hang out together. You don't have to do anything elaborate or overly planned. Watch a movie together. Sing Christmas carols karaoke-style. Try your hand at a game on that big-buck game system you bought for your kids. Make Christmas cards. Do something that increases your family bond and gives everyone a break from being "on."
3. Give. You may be thinking, "Wait, you just told me to cut back and hang loose." Well, it's no surprise but this is one of those times of year that people are expected to be overly stingy. It's our job as Christ-followers to counteract that all year long, but especially during this time when the world is pressing it so much. Give your love to someone who feels left out. Give your time to somone who's lonely. Give the joy of your smile to a stranger who is also feeling the pressure of the holidays and in doing so, you can keep Christ in your perspective of the holidays.
As we follow Christ's example in Acts 10:38: "... he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him."
God's Presence in our everyday lives empowers us to do good and show love to those who need it. Let's keep the Love Revolution going!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Being Born Again
This most important decision you’ll ever make is to become a follower of Jesus Christ. After being a Christian for more that 30 years I can honestly say that there are times I forget the power of being “born again." As I preached Sunday about this topic and prepared for the opportunity, I was jolted by the Holy Spirit a few times. The reality hit me like a ton of bricks-- “I am born again of the Spirit.” What an awesome miracle!
As Christians, we are often looking for the miracles of God. But the truth is, the greatest miracles are those God has transformed from the inside out. The reality is “I am a walking Miracle.” I know that can sound canned but the power of that thought has really sank into my spirit lately. Be reminded today that when Jesus comes into your life he brings new life into our spirit. The old is gone and the new has come (2 Cor. 5:17).
As Christians, we are often looking for the miracles of God. But the truth is, the greatest miracles are those God has transformed from the inside out. The reality is “I am a walking Miracle.” I know that can sound canned but the power of that thought has really sank into my spirit lately. Be reminded today that when Jesus comes into your life he brings new life into our spirit. The old is gone and the new has come (2 Cor. 5:17).
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Don't Give Up
Whatever you do, don’t grow weary! Life can make us tired sometimes. Sometimes we find ourselves yawning and ready to take up a nap. We scream out “Can I just have a break?” But I believe God is telling you today to wake up, stir yourself up and keep moving forward.
It is not time to stop fighting. It is not time to relax (spiritually). It is not time to let your guard down. Galatians 6:9 says “Let us not grow weary in doing good. For at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” Your life has greatness attached to it in spite of your failures and short comings. Keep saying and staying on what is right and God will bring that “harvest,” that greatness into your life. It will happen!
It is not time to stop fighting. It is not time to relax (spiritually). It is not time to let your guard down. Galatians 6:9 says “Let us not grow weary in doing good. For at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” Your life has greatness attached to it in spite of your failures and short comings. Keep saying and staying on what is right and God will bring that “harvest,” that greatness into your life. It will happen!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The Four P's
Whenever God is working in our lives it will usually fall into one of four “P’s:”
- The Promise,
- The Principle,
- The Problem,
- and The Provision.
The Principle is the time that God imparts truths to grow us for the fulfillment of the promise. It is a time of learning and “going to school.”
The Problem is when God allows us to be tested to see what we have learned. I do believe this is the stage that the devil tries to distract, discourage, and derail us from our Promise. In our momentary troubles we must not give in but remain steadfast to see-out the promise. Your problem is not greater than your promise. Ask yourself what is it that God is trying to teach you in all this. This is a sign of true spiritual maturity. Change what you can. Change only happens when the pain of the same is greater than the pain of change.
The Provision is the promise coming into reality. This is the moment when it all comes together and makes sense. I recently heard a cool quote that said “Faith is living in advance what we will only understand in reverse.”
Whatever “P” you find yourself in today, remember God knows exactly what is going on and He desires to see you make it to the provision of His Promise!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Distracted by His glory
Can I ask you a question today? What are you attracted to? What is it that gets your attention?
Life can really be distracting at times. In contrast, I have found over time that God wants to distract me from the things of this world. I know a lot of times we talk about being spiritually distracted by the enemy, or by some situation or circumstance. But I really believe that God wants to distract your life with His glory. He wants to shift your focus off of the reality of your problems and place them on His greatness. Don’t miss this point!I am not saying that we should not face our problems, but I am saying that when we focus on magnifying the Lord, God will distract us from becoming overwhelmed with the pressures of this life.
Go outside tonight or some night (when it's clear) and just begin to focus on how big God really is. All of a sudden the words that Isaiah penned in chapter 55:8-9 become more than just a scripture you may have heard.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
Just that thought alone brings hope, trust, and strength. To be reminded that God’s ways are higher than ours -- that is only one thought that can distract us from focusing on the wrong thing. When we become distracted by God and His glory, our lives will sync up with His greatness. Let me say that again so you don’t miss it: When we become distracted by God and His glory our lives will sync up with His greatness.
My challenge for you, my friend,is simple: Instead of allowing the enemy to distract you with life, allow your life to be distracted with how amazing God is. I think you’ll find that God’s distractions are the best kind.
By the way, when we get distracted on the right things we will find that our perspective of our life and our problems will always be right.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Tips for The Race
What an awesome service we had yesterday as we focused on running “The Race” that God has called us to. Your race must be run with perseverance if we are going to finish. Perseverance, very simply put, is refusing to quit no matter how hard it gets. It is running with impudence towards God-goals and destiny for your life.
Many times when a runner is running their side will start hurting. I have been told (because I am not a skilled runner) that if you press through the pain that it will go away. But, if you focus on the pain, it will rob you of your rhythm and, ultimately, your potential to finish. This is not a huge revelation but pain hurts--that’s why we focus on it.
Let me give you some sound spiritual advice. When pain enters into your life don’t deny that it is there. It is ok to acknowledge your pain. The key for us as believers is to make sure that we don’t allow it to control us. That is when we let the enemy win. Pain is real and it hurts, but do not give the enemy the satisfaction of stealing your spiritual rhythm. Keep your focus on Jesus “the author and perfecter of your faith”. When you think about how much pain he had to endure for us and that he wants to help us in our time of need, it makes our pain easier to carry!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
A Servant's Heart
Serving is the heart of God and must be the heart of the church. When the church stops serving, we become self-seeking and insufficient to the kingdom. God’s desire for us is to bring our gifts and talents and be willing to be used in the body to touch this world. This is how we become the hands and feet of Christ.
Serving is SHOWING people Jesus by honoring God with selflessness (Pastor Jason’s definition). There is no greater joy in life than to work in God’s kingdom. But remember, God’s kingdom does not parallel with the worlds kingdom. As a matter of fact, it works backwards. If you want to go up, then you must go down. If you want to be first, than you must be last. (Matthew 20:26-28). I know that is not easy for our ears to hear, but it is how God kingdom functions.
A Christian can only find true purpose when serving is the main objective. If you are looking to find focus for your life, then start serving. Sometimes that can mean doing what is in front of us. If we just wait for the “perfect” opportunity we may miss a God opportunity. Serving is the key to the next door in your life. God always honors a servant heart.
Serving has always been and will always be a part of the DNA of CCC. Teaching people to serve and creating a culture of servant leadership are underlying goals of every aspect of our ministry. Whether it is missions, ministry groups, small groups, children’s ministry, student ministry, young adults, nursery, or outreach, cultivating servant leadership is critical to our mission. Join me as we continue to endeavor on creating a servant leadership culture that will not just tell people Jesus loves them but will show them. After all, this is the formula that God used to show us his love in his son Jesus Christ (John 3:16). Showing always speaks louder than telling!
Showing always speaks louder than telling!
Serving is SHOWING people Jesus by honoring God with selflessness (Pastor Jason’s definition). There is no greater joy in life than to work in God’s kingdom. But remember, God’s kingdom does not parallel with the worlds kingdom. As a matter of fact, it works backwards. If you want to go up, then you must go down. If you want to be first, than you must be last. (Matthew 20:26-28). I know that is not easy for our ears to hear, but it is how God kingdom functions.
A Christian can only find true purpose when serving is the main objective. If you are looking to find focus for your life, then start serving. Sometimes that can mean doing what is in front of us. If we just wait for the “perfect” opportunity we may miss a God opportunity. Serving is the key to the next door in your life. God always honors a servant heart.
Serving has always been and will always be a part of the DNA of CCC. Teaching people to serve and creating a culture of servant leadership are underlying goals of every aspect of our ministry. Whether it is missions, ministry groups, small groups, children’s ministry, student ministry, young adults, nursery, or outreach, cultivating servant leadership is critical to our mission. Join me as we continue to endeavor on creating a servant leadership culture that will not just tell people Jesus loves them but will show them. After all, this is the formula that God used to show us his love in his son Jesus Christ (John 3:16). Showing always speaks louder than telling!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Sing the song God has called you to sing
You've heard the expression “When the water is right, don’t wait to jump in” or from a romantic point of view, “When the mood is right don’t wait.” Another expression is to "pick your flowers right before they are in full bloom.” My point in sharing this is that it is important for us to know the urgency of the times. Today’s world screams with chaos, yet the opportunity for spiritual purpose and impact is unparalleled. I truly believe that God is ready to do something unusual through people that are willing to stand up and stand out for Him.
What I’m saying is: the water is right, the mood is right, and the flowers are almost at full bloom. God is calling you through the Holy Spirit and is positioning you for something great. I know that can sound like a cliché, but remember, there are no "big I's" and "little yous" in God’s eyes. The Bible says that he is “no respecter of persons.” We find that to be true all throughout scripture. Whether it was Rahab (the harlot), Ruth, David, Paul, or the disciples, God never chose the chosen but he used the willing.
What I’m saying is: the water is right, the mood is right, and the flowers are almost at full bloom. God is calling you through the Holy Spirit and is positioning you for something great. I know that can sound like a cliché, but remember, there are no "big I's" and "little yous" in God’s eyes. The Bible says that he is “no respecter of persons.” We find that to be true all throughout scripture. Whether it was Rahab (the harlot), Ruth, David, Paul, or the disciples, God never chose the chosen but he used the willing.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Changing and growing
I am always thinking of how I can implement change. Whether it is in my workout routine or even different ways to minister to people more effectively and creatively; change is important. Change is a tough word (verb) to take sometimes though because that’s exactly what happens. Webster defines the word change, “to put or take in place of something else; substitute for, replace with or transfer to another of a similar kind.” The truth is most of us do not like change because we like to know what to expect.
Now before I comment on this word any more, let me balance this: there are fundamentals (God’s word, core values, etc.) that we cannot change nor should we try to change. So hear me good when I say “some things should not change.” But when it comes to experiencing something that is more, we need to be willing to change.
I have found that if I will be willing to shake it up a little, I will experience growth, excitement, and life to a whole new level. As a kid growing up and into my young adult life I only ate meat and potatoes (occasionally candy too and lots of bread, which is its own food group). My parents would always say, “You are missing out!” I thought to myself “yeah right!” It’s funny now I am saying the same things to my kids. But as I slowly expanded my taste buds, I found a whole new world of excitement when it comes to eating and trying new things (even eating raw oysters and sushi). I still do not eat broccoli or a couple of other vegetables but I have come a long way.
Even with working out, I have figured out if I do the exact same routine over and over, only those muscles will grow at those angles . So the plan is to create change to experience a different PAIN. Different can always mean growth if we look at it with the right perspective. I believe this parallels with our spiritual walk as well.
Do yourself a favor and change up your routine spiritually. It means making yourself uncomfortable at times to actually grow and not just maintain. I assure you that change in your spiritual walk will shake things up where you do not get into a spiritual rut. Create some change in your life this week. Spend time with your kids, go to the gym, get up early to pray, witness to your co-worker, start tithing, smile intentionally, kiss your spouse for no reason, make a eating plan (and stick with it). Change your LIFE!
Now before I comment on this word any more, let me balance this: there are fundamentals (God’s word, core values, etc.) that we cannot change nor should we try to change. So hear me good when I say “some things should not change.” But when it comes to experiencing something that is more, we need to be willing to change.
I have found that if I will be willing to shake it up a little, I will experience growth, excitement, and life to a whole new level. As a kid growing up and into my young adult life I only ate meat and potatoes (occasionally candy too and lots of bread, which is its own food group). My parents would always say, “You are missing out!” I thought to myself “yeah right!” It’s funny now I am saying the same things to my kids. But as I slowly expanded my taste buds, I found a whole new world of excitement when it comes to eating and trying new things (even eating raw oysters and sushi). I still do not eat broccoli or a couple of other vegetables but I have come a long way.
Even with working out, I have figured out if I do the exact same routine over and over, only those muscles will grow at those angles . So the plan is to create change to experience a different PAIN. Different can always mean growth if we look at it with the right perspective. I believe this parallels with our spiritual walk as well.
Do yourself a favor and change up your routine spiritually. It means making yourself uncomfortable at times to actually grow and not just maintain. I assure you that change in your spiritual walk will shake things up where you do not get into a spiritual rut. Create some change in your life this week. Spend time with your kids, go to the gym, get up early to pray, witness to your co-worker, start tithing, smile intentionally, kiss your spouse for no reason, make a eating plan (and stick with it). Change your LIFE!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Spring forward
Spring is in the air! I love the time change this time of the year but I do not like how dark it is when you wake up! Getting my kids out of bed this morning was not very easy (they said “it’s too dark”). I do like how they have more time to play in the evening, though.
Think about this: If we "spring up" an hour in time, why not "spring up" an hour early in our life to draw closer to the Lord? I will be honest with you--I am not a morning person by nature, but I know that getting up and seeking God is one of the keys to spiritual growth.
Take an opportunity this week to get up a little earlier and find time to seek God. Even if it's for 15 minutes, God will bless it if you give Him that time to start the day. You may even want to try to go to bed a little bit earlier and set yourself up for success. Remember: it is never easy or convenient to go after God. It will always take sacrifice, always mean giving something up, pull you out of your comfort zone, but it is always worth it.
Think about this: If we "spring up" an hour in time, why not "spring up" an hour early in our life to draw closer to the Lord? I will be honest with you--I am not a morning person by nature, but I know that getting up and seeking God is one of the keys to spiritual growth.
Take an opportunity this week to get up a little earlier and find time to seek God. Even if it's for 15 minutes, God will bless it if you give Him that time to start the day. You may even want to try to go to bed a little bit earlier and set yourself up for success. Remember: it is never easy or convenient to go after God. It will always take sacrifice, always mean giving something up, pull you out of your comfort zone, but it is always worth it.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Prayerful Thoughts
Your purpose is tied to your destiny. And your destiny is tied to your destination. Your destination is important because it keeps you anchored to the direction and focus God has called you to. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus he will never leave you nor forsake you . We forget all too much that part of the job of the Holy Spirit is to get you to your destiny. Think about this: the Holy Spirit wants you to get to your destination more than you do!
Let me encourage you to trust God and relax in Him. He is your shield and your strength. God is out in front of your life making sure that you don’t miss your purpose. We do have a part to play and we must do our part but know that God wants you to get there more than you do. When you walk with God you can’t make a mistake. Hold His hand and let Him lead you today.
Let me encourage you to trust God and relax in Him. He is your shield and your strength. God is out in front of your life making sure that you don’t miss your purpose. We do have a part to play and we must do our part but know that God wants you to get there more than you do. When you walk with God you can’t make a mistake. Hold His hand and let Him lead you today.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Breathe
One of the most refreshing times in life is when we force ourselves to sit back and take a deep breath. For many of us this creates "reflection," which is not always a good thing depending on what we reflect on. But when we can reflect on the good rather than the bad, it gives strength to us in the moment. As I write these words I am looking at the ocean. You may say,"Well that's easy for you to say while your staring at such beauty." Yes, it may be! But maybe you needed someone to tell you that today and help you be reminded that taking a deep breath (in the Spirit) can be one the simplest tools for staying in the game for the long haul. Take a DEEP breath!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
People need Jesus
People are funny! One of my favorite things to do is watch people. I am always amazed and intrigued by what I see. These days, people are so consumed with life that there is not much room for anything else. I remember a few months ago while at the mall with my family, I watched people go by while waiting outside the "American Girl" doll store, and I estimated that half the people that walked by me were engaged either with their phone or some type of technical device. I remember thinking to myself "So many people have a void in their lives and don't know how to fill."
One of my biggest observations in watching people, whether it is at airport, mall, grocery store, gym, or just in public in general, is that they are "empty." People are longing for fulfillment and they are willing to do almost anything to have that (temporary) fulfillment. Remember this week when you are put and about that most of the people you will see need Jesus. Take an opportunity to seed the love of Christ around your world this week.
One of my biggest observations in watching people, whether it is at airport, mall, grocery store, gym, or just in public in general, is that they are "empty." People are longing for fulfillment and they are willing to do almost anything to have that (temporary) fulfillment. Remember this week when you are put and about that most of the people you will see need Jesus. Take an opportunity to seed the love of Christ around your world this week.
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