Soli Deo Gloria

The Victory of Forgiveness

2010-08-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

So much of my life has been spent with the on-going struggle of forgiveness. If you are like me, it's hard...it's tough to forgive. Have you ever been wronged to the point that forgiveness to that person isn't on the radar? Have you ever seen injustice in such a way that you are convinced forgiveness will never be issued? Take a look with me at the Gospel for just a minute. I pray you can see a glimpse of what has rocked my world today.

"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." - Matthew 6:14-15, ESV

From this powerful passage in the middle of the Sermon on the Mound, I see the beauty of the Gospel. What is the Gospel? The Gospel teaches us that God the Father in His grace has forgiven sinners and has welcomed them into the perfect righteousness of His Son. When you take a deeper look at the Greek word for forgive in this text, you will discover the word aphiemi; which translates, "to throw away, to leave alone, to send off." This is DEEP. This is HUGE. The Gospel teaches us that in our own sinfulness and rebellion, God the Father has rescued us by throwing His just wrath off of us and onto the cross of His Son. It goes far beyond words. It goes far beyond, "I'm sorry" or, "I'll never do that again." 1 John 1:9 can offer more joy in that truth. Get the picture? Forgiveness is defined by the Gospel.

With that...let's return to our dilemma. If you are like me, there are people in my life that I struggle to forgive. Left up to my own actions, I won't forgive them. Left up to the Gospel, forgiveness to others offers the genuine definition of God's love for sinners. Take a few minutes today and think about someone in your life that you are struggling to forgive. Got that person in mind? What should you do next? Think about the Gospel. Think about the definition of forgiveness. Are you willing to first look at your own fallen state and what God has done for you? Now, are you willing to throw off your own perceived right to show your own justice to that person? We are not God. He is just. We aren't. Forgive by throwing off your right to get even. Forgive by hurling off your temptation to speak ugly. Forgive by sending off your anger with intercession prayer. Forgive by walking in His Gospel today.

I have found forgiveness today only by what God has done, not by what I've attempted to do. What a victory.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

I'm praying for you...and I really will

2010-07-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people" - 1 Timothy 2:1, ESV

Have you ever promised someone that you would pray for him or her? Have you failed in that promise? It seems the honest thing we should do as followers of Jesus is to either fulfill our commitment in intercession prayer or not make the promise to begin with. For example, what if when someone asked for prayer, we replied with, "I really hurt for you, but I since I won't remember your request, I can't promise you I will pray." What a horrible thing to say in church! Well, at least it’s honest. You see, we tend to treat prayer like a passing gesture instead of a divine privilege. May this blog post today encourage you to pray...and really pray.

Paul wrote this verse with great passion to his young friend in regards to biblical worship. 1 Timothy 2 is immersed with a Spirit-led guideline for worship. It should come to us at no surprise that prayer begins the section. Without pure and honest prayer, how can we truly worship? How can we believe and trust in the greatness of God if we refuse to speak to Him? Friend, we have a divine privilege each day to enter into His presence through Christ, our Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). I believe it's time we quit treating prayer like a nice comment or gesture and handle it with graceful privilege. As the bride of Christ, let us pray for one another with sweet intercession. May our prayers for our leaders not be for our selfish conclusions but rather God's sovereign plans. May our promises to pray for others not be forgotten.

Why did I write on this today? Well, last night after the Wednesday night movie time with my students, I walked into the student center to grab a bottle of water. As I was walking into the room, some students were circled together near the stage. My intern was on the stage with a mic in his hand praying. I grabbed the bottle of water quietly and proceeded to the door. Right before my hand touched the door, I heard my name lifted up in prayer. I stood near the door for almost a minute as my dear friend prayed for me. The sweet intercession brought sweet peace to my soul as I drove home after a long day at the church.

I was prayed for that night.

Pray. Pray for someone today. Make a promise to pray for someone else...and really do it.

Dancing in the bath

2010-07-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

I just finished helping Brooke with Eden's bath. Giving her a bath to end the day is a treasure. Her beautiful blue eyes light up like a Roman Candle as soon as she touches the warm soapy water. She often giggles as we sing to her songs involving the bath experience. At the conclusion of each bath, Eden dances. She stomps her feet in the soapy water and smiles in artistic fashion as the water splashes over the sink. We laugh. We enjoy the moment. The last thing on my mind is to clean the dance. Well, I think of it after the girls leave me with bathroom cleanup. During the moment, it is a treasure.

In 2 Samuel 6:16-23, King David danced with unceasing joy as the ark of the Lord was brought into the city. He couldn't help but dance in the presence of the Lord. His joy was contagious. We need more people with joy like this. We need more bath dancers. Sometimes, we get so boggled down with the trivial and less concerned with the joyful privileges. I sometimes find myself in the shows of Michal. Her prideful, legalistic, and self-centered life was offended by the celebration of the King. She was more concerned with the opinions of the important people in that day. We tend to become like Michal. We want a religious routine without the dance. We want the controlled rather than the freedom.

Seeing Eden dance in the bath tonight brought a gentle note to the score of worship in my soul. I want to live my life with such joy that each step I take in the presence of the Lord is like a baby dancing in the bathtub.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Where is the Love?

2010-07-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

The title may be only connected to a song by the Black Eyed Peas. Beyond that, take the title to an application of 1 John 2:7-11. Inside the children of the Living God...where is the love? With that simple question, take a few moments and read 1 John 2:7-11.

"Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes." - 1 John 2:7-11, ESV

Last night, I challenged my students to look at LOVE from 1 John in 3 ways. For the sake of this post, we are going to quickly examine those ways.

1. Loving others is Biblical. Looking at verse 7, you can't help but see the beauty of the Old Testament. We love others...because it is commanded in the Word. Love is Biblical. Beyond being an emotional drive that many believers share...it is a command. For example, we see love between brothers in Genesis 45:15 as Joseph showed humble forgiveness to his wicked family. God's love was clearly displayed that day as the second highest in command offered undeserved love. In 1 Samuel 20:17-42, Jonathan loved David. This brotherly love was unique for Jonathan had every reason in the world to remain bitter against the one that would take the throne that all paperwork would claim was his. Finally, in Psalm 133:1-2, we see how beautiful it is when brothers...when the CHURCH shows love to one another. This must come from leadership first. Leaders...where is the love?

2. Loving others reflects Christ. In verse 8, we see that IN HIM, the commandment is new. In Christ, we are radically challenged to love in a way that His grace is offered. John writes, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another." (John 13:34). How can we reflect Christ? Beyond just preaching His great Gospel, we must live and love with His great Gospel. Are you reflecting the love of Christ? Are you showing His Gospel? Are you loving others in a way that you are showing them the darkness of their sin? Are you walking in the light in such a way that you daily acknowledge your own sinfulness and grace beyond measure? In reflecting Christ...where is the love?

3. Loving others shows genuine salvation. Finally, in verses 9-11, we see the fat challenge in the text. Hating others negates the love that we claim we have in our souls. How do we hate others? Gossip, slander, neglecting needs, neglecting the Gospel, failing His commands...comes from a lack of love. It's interesting to note that in the Greek, the idea for "stumbling" comes from the word skandalon, which literally translates, "a stick for bait, a snare, an offense." Some of the most common excuses I've heard in students not wanting to be in the church are centered around the treatment received from believers. Friend, we must knock down the walls of religious comforts and open the door for the Gospel. We must display love to the world in order to reflect the validity of the Gospel practically lived out in our lives. May we love with the Gospel. May we live in the Gospel. I like what John Ortberg writes, "Living in grace, remembering grace, keeps love alive. But losing touch with grace, forgetting that I am loved because God is a gracious God, is a love-killer." Where is the love?

I close with a song I played for my students last night.

By Our Love - Christy Nockels

Brothers, let us come together
Walking in the Spirit, there's much to be done...
We will come reaching, out from our comforts
And they will know us by our love...

Sisters, we were made for kindness
We can pierce the darkness as He shines through us...
We will come reaching, with a song of healing...
And they will know us by our love!

The time is now
Come Church arise...
Love with His hands
See with His eyes...
Bind it around you,
Let it never leave you,
And they will know us by our love...

Children, You are hope for justice,
Stand firm in the Truth now, set your hearts above
You will be reaching, long after we’re gone,
And they will know you by your love!

Where is the Love?

Soli Deo Gloria!

Imperfect striving for the Perfect

2010-07-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

We are imperfect people. Looking through the Scriptures, I see passages that challenge us to strive for perfection. For example, in Matthew 5:48, the writer challenges us with, "You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." When you take a glance at this verse, it should automatically eliminate the tendency to say rubbish like, "I'm not perfect, I'm just forgiven." I hear many believers say that and it makes me sick to my stomach. We should never make excuses for our complacent faith and worldly conformity with placing between us the factor of forgiveness. How can we express biblical forgiveness if we don't walk in the LIGHT of that forgiveness? (1 John 1:7).

With that being said, we are imperfect people striving for perfection. Paul writes, "but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away."(1 Corinthians 13:10). This verse comes to us after a rich overview of various Spiritual gifts and the core of love in the body. Imperfection can be seen within the limitation of various giftedness. A perfect body of perfect believers would have perfect gifting for a perfect result. Let's face it, we aren't perfect. I work with a staff made up of various gifts. One staff member is a details person. This person will want details and answers to many questions. Another staff member is more laid back and goes with the flow of the day. One staff member has great people skills while another could work all day with contact with a person. Some can serve. Some can teach. We are all imperfect sinners saved by the matchless grace of Jesus. However, what makes the days more exciting is to strive and anticipate the Perfect. What brings unity to the church is the acknowledgment of the imperfect and the desperation for the Perfect. When the Perfect comes, there will be no need for spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts bring about the global mission of God. One day, when we receive the Perfect presence of His everlasting joy, we won't need to bring about His mission...because His mission will be complete.

When we come to the other side of glory, we will worship the Perfect One. We will be in His Perfect presence for all of eternity. Let us not live today with imperfect complacency but rather joyful anticipation for His presence.

Soli Deo Gloria!

What does God see?

2010-07-09T08:59:00.000-07:00

What does God aspire in you? In other words, what do you believe is something He desires in His children? I've wrestled with this question this week. I know He longs for worshippers to be centered on Him. I know He longs for His children to crave His Word. I know He longs for followers to preach the Gospel of His Son to all nations. I know He longs for us to walk in His Spirit and not by our fallen flesh. With that being said, would there be another area He aspires? I see a powerful truth in Isaiah 66:2 that we must digest. Take a moment and chew on this verse.

"All these things my hand has made,
and so all these things came to be,
declares the Lord.
But this is the one to whom I will look:
he who is humble and contrite in spirit
and trembles at my word. " - ESV

For the sake of this post, we are going to camp out on the last half of the verse. God aspires, God LOOKS to those that are: humble, contrite, and tremble at His Word. This is rich. How are we reflecting that in our own lives? How are we showing humility? How are we contrite? How are we trembling at His Word? For the remainder of this post, let's look at these three categories separately.

1. Humble. God looks to those that are humble. Literally, those that acknowledge that they are poor and afflicted...and are in desperate need for His daily grace. If we were to live in such a way that we recognize our fallen nature and need for His divine favor, it would radically change the way we live. This truth hits me like an 18 wheeler. How can I live with humility? How can I not look to the faults of others and overlook my own? Humility places us in such a place that we are far more dependant on Him and less dependant on our own fallen state.

2. Contrite. God looks to those that are contrite. What does that exactly mean? Literally, those that are stricken. This connects us to humility. We are stricken daily in this fallen world. Looking at a "conservative" news website that many Christians favor led me to a contrite spirit. I'm not a political person. Some of my brothers seem to be driven by politics like teenage girls obsessed with Justin Beiber. Being contrite in Spirit literally can be in our stricken awareness of the depravity around us and our desperation for God to rescue. Do we live with that kind of urgency?

3. Trembling at His Word. God looks to those that are trembling at His Word. Literally, those that find fear and reverence in His Word. This attitude comes from a heart of meditation and an intentional desire to daily know Him more. I find that the only way I can know Him more is to study His perfect Word. This involves humility, because I come across passages almost weekly that destroy my way of thinking. I long for the day that the church and her leaders will tremble at His Word more than their personal agenda. How important is His Word to you?

In your life, what does God see?

Some thoughts to offer you on this quiet Friday morning in my office. Have a great weekend ahead.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

And Your Praise Goes On....

2010-07-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had the joy of praising my Lord and my God with my CrossPoint students. The night began in similar fashion. We met at the same time, in the same room, for the same purpose; corporate worship. We had an announcement video, a few songs, a message, and a response song. When I looked at my watch, the time was about 7:30pm when the "program" was over. I'm not a big fan of that word, but that is what Wednesday nights can tend to be. When we dismissed the students to go home, some stayed. Instead of talking and socializing, they stayed to continue worshipping. The Praise continued well after the "program" was over.

His praise continues. Last night, I saw a dozen students stay in the worship center, in their own separated spots, worshipping their Savior. Without a spotlight on themselves, they worshipped without shame. The praise continued well after the program was over. Song after song was played in the room as the students responded with great joy in the presence of their Lord. The praise continued well after the program was over. Seeing many of their facebook statuses when they got home...I saw more praise. His praise continues.

Psalm 150

Praise the LORD.^a

Praise God in his sanctuary;

praise him in his mighty heavens.

2Praise him for his acts of power;

praise him for his surpassing greatness.

3Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,

praise him with the harp and lyre,

4praise him with tambourine and dancing,

praise him with the strings and flute,

5praise him with the clash of cymbals,

praise him with resounding cymbals.

6Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.

Praise the LORD.

Don't wait for programmed time to praise your Lord and your God. His praise continues. Even when we don't have a song to sing, His praise continues. Even if we don't have a sermon preached, His praise continues. Even if we don't have a scheduled time to join together, His praise continues. I find this song by Chris Rice most helpful. Read it and may the praise in your heart continue...

The moon is high and the sunset fades
The lullabies have all been sung
We’re tuckin’ in another day
And stars appear now one by one
But the stillness moves and the silence yields
And not a single beat is lost
You can hear the chorus in the fields

Taking up where we left off
And Your praise goes on, rising to Your throne
Where You guard us while we dream
Past the stars they fly, Your praises fill the sky
‘Til You wake us with the dawn
And Your praise goes on

Now bring your warmth, O morning sun
Chase the stars and the moon away
And wake us with your brightest song
And add our voice to your refrain
Now rise up everything that lives!
Flap your wings and leap for joy!
Oh forest lift your arms and sway!
Clap your hands you ocean waves!

And Your praise goes on, rising to Your throne
Where You bless our toil and play
Through the clouds they rise, Your praises fill the skies
‘Til the setting of the sun
And Your praise goes on
And when my final breath You lend
I’ll thank You for the life You gave
But that won’t mean the praises end
‘Cause I won’t be silenced by the grave!

And Your praise goes on
I’ll be runnin’ to Your throne
With every nation, tribe and tongue
To Your arms I’ll fly
I’ll gaze into Your eyes
Then I’ll know as I am known
And Your praise goes on
And Your praise goes on
And Your praise goes on

Allegiance...to whom?

2010-07-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

I'm typing these words on the day of my nation's Independence. This day will consist of families coming together, friends investing in one another, plenty of food, live music, and the culmination that everyone waits for...FIREWORKS. It's a fun day. I enjoy these days. However, in the midst of all the celebrating, I fear the tendency we all have in forgetting what the day is about. Do we honestly think about our forefathers who fought against the British in order to preserve for us a separate nation? Do we honestly think about the victory that was won in order for us to have freedom? I'm not convinced many of us think about that when we go about in our celebrating. I admit, I don't think about it much...and I should. I'm not what you would call a "Proud American," because, I see my country in desperate need for repentance and salvation. However, I am drawn to the conclusion that this day should prompt believers to look ultimately at the sacrifice our Savior bore on the cross in order for us to celebrate daily the liberation we have in Christ!

For just a moment, look over Hebrews 13. If you don't have a Bible with you, I encourage you to check out http://www.biblos.com/. That site will give you Scriptures...in many translations with helpful explanations. Go ahead and read, I'll wait.

How important is this day to you? How important is this day in other countries? How important is each day that the Lord has made? Is Christ the center of them all? One verse that jumps out at me in Hebrews 13 is found in verse 8 when the writer declares, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." I love this rich verse! Each day offers us a time of celebration over the joy of His conquering sin and death for the freedom we have to enter the presence of His Father. We don't really have to wait on day a year...or even a day a week to celebrate that truth. Jesus Christ is the SAME. In other words, He is unchanging. He never fails. He never disappoints.

My country seems to change alot. We change leaders. We change laws. We change the way we think and view certain issues. There is no consistency. In the midst of my personal frustration, I see a need to find all my allegiance in the ONE who is the SAME...today...and the infinite days to come. I see the joy in the fact that above my country being freed from the hold of Britain, my Savior freed ALL NATIONS to be free from the captivity of sin. I'm sure you saw verses in Hebrews 13 that jumped out at you. 2 issues that rob America are found in that chapter; sexual immorality (v.4) and the love of money (v.5). We have a free nation...but I would argue that we are still in slavery to those sins. The only remedy is found at the cross. Want a release from sexual sins? Find allegiance in Christ alone. Want a release from the worship of money? Find allegiance in Christ alone. This nation can't help you in your problem with sin. Only Christ can help, because only Christ has made the sacrifice needed in order to have freedom.

Allegiance..to whom? Join me today as I pray for my country in hopes that she will see the need for the Savior and rejoice in the freedom that He alone sacrificed to give.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

The Center of our Response

2010-06-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

As a church, how can we genuinely and practically respond to the Gospel? When we read of the steadfast love of our Father who sent His Son to save sinners...what should our response be? When we digest the truth that we went from being objects of His wrath to adoption into His family...how can we respond? The center of our response can be found in 1 Peter 3:8.

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." - 1 Peter 3:8, ESV

I love this verse! This morning, it about knocked me out of my quiet time chair. How can a church function with unity, love, tenderness, and humility? The Gospel. The center of our response to the Gospel is understanding our daily need for His grace and relaying that need to others. I often times fall into the trap of my own pride which allows me to think that my steps are important, my words matter, and my leadership counts. Pride can swallow us up...which will take away the response the Gospel deserves. I've seen leadership so swallowed up in pride that sin isn't recognized...and disguised by the errors of others. The center of fallen man's response is his own hopeless determination. The center of our response to His Gospel must be in the words that Peter penned for our benefit.

What is the center of your response daily to His Gospel? Do you ignore it? Do you take it for granted? Do you proclaim it? Do you live with joy? Do you forgive others? Do you own up to your own sins? Do you recognize your desperate need for His presence? May the center of our response be like 1 Peter 3:8. Even in the context of suffering as this text is located in...may in all seasons we celebrate the Gospel of our Lord.

I believe this genuine response will show the validity of our faith and our passion for His Gospel.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

The Gospel according to...cell phones

2010-06-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

This morning, I had the joy of preaching the Gospel to the new 6th grade class at CrossPoint church. I always love having opportunities to share the good news of my redemption to others. In this particular morning, I shared a story about my past that led to this blog post.

Before I share my story about cell phones, I want to share a quick story with you. After my first year of faithful service to my first church...I received a cell phone...and $300. What a blessing. OK, now for the longer story.

Cell phones have become the RAVE these days. In 2001, I got my first cell phone. My first church that I served in student ministry gave me a phone to use for "student ministry purposes." I looked at the phone as a gift from above. The phone was my driving joy each day. I'd call people simply to tell them that I had a cell phone. It was great.

With my new cell phone came a book that held all the rules and guidelines to the phone. As an idiot, I threw the book in the backseat of my car and went about my frenzy of calls. During this time, I had a long distance relationship with a girl named...well, I forgot. All I remember is that it lasted 2 weeks. Anyways, we talked at night on the phone. We talked alot. A month later, I received my first bill. The bill was $300!! I was dumbfounded. I refused to read the manual and had a fine to pay as a result. In the grace of the church...the payment was made in advance.

Take just a minute and chew on Romans 3:23-26. In this rich text, we see that the love of Father went BEFORE us to redeem us at the atoning expense of His only Son. Our salvation was sealed before we were born through the eternal riches of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:7). We are saved, not by anything we have done...but by ALL that He has done for us...before us. The payment was made before the fine hit for our lives today. What grace.

Looking at my cell phone today, I'm reminded of what happened years ago. I broke the manual. I refused to live by the standards of my God. In His grace, He sent Jesus to suffer in my place. Just like the garden (Genesis 3:1-21)...Jesus paid it all.

I abide by my cell phone guidelines now after what happened in college. As a redeemed child of God, I strive to abide by His standards...perfectly accomplished in the Living Vine; Jesus Christ, my Savior and my Lord (John 15).

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

RED LETTERS...not man's letters

2010-06-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

I just returned a few days ago from an incredible weekend with my High School students at CrossPoint. The focus for the weekend camp was THE RED LETTERS. When you look at the New Testament Scriptures, you will see the words Jesus spoke in red. This has always signified the grace and love He poured on the cross with His own blood. I was raised in a glorious home in which every time the RED LETTERS appeared...I automatically saw Jesus. It seems in most churches and ministries, the RED LETTERS have been replaced by man's letters. Please permit me to explain.

Mark 10:35-40 reveals to us the sinful desire for James and John to have their own letters next to the RED LETTERS of Jesus. In other words, they wanted the high position of worthy standing next to Jesus. What was the motive? I'm not fully sure what the motive was...but I do see much of it in today's society. We trust in the blogs, notes, leadership, direction, encouragement, guidance, and wisdom of man...and neglect to live under the joy of the Gospel. The way Jesus responded to this request should prompt us to live under His RED LETTERS.

Mark 10:45 served as our main verse for one of the three sessions this past weekend. In this verse, Jesus said, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." The RED LETTERS, the Gospel of our Lord can be clearly defined in this singular verse. We are ransomed by the grace of our Almighty God, paid for in full on the cross. It's not that we exist to do great things for Him. I believe He does great things in us...for Himself. It's not selfish. It's glorious. Who can compare to Him? He has no rival outside of His Triune nature. The RED LETTERS should spark in us the joy that in our sinful living and our selfish motives...our Savior ransomed us to receive the beautiful grace of His righteousness. In other words, we receive the undeserved favor of receiving the rightful standing needed in order to enter glory for all eternity. With that being said...what letters do we have to offer?

Some practical ways I've seen man's letters attempt to take the spotlight of the RED LETTERS are in the following.

1. "Your leadership motivates me to be a better Christian." Apart from the RED LETTERS, man cannot possibly lead. We lead only by the RED LETTERS.

2. "Your blog, your notes inspire me every day." Again, the RED LETTERS should give us the inspiration needed daily...for in the RED LETTERS, we are saved.

3. "Your encouragement is ALL I need." Well, encouragement is great (Hebrews 3:13), but we receive eternal encouragement in the Savior that all of Hebrews 3 talks about!

These are some of many practical ways in which man's letters are brought into picture. Friend, I struggle with this. Sometimes in the back of my mind...I wonder, "Was that sermon good?" or, "Am I good at what I do?" I tend to have the temptation almost daily to rely on my letters and not the RED LETTERS of my Savior. Repentance is a must in this area. The joy of His RED LETTERS forgives me when I want my own letters to interfere. He is gracious. He is all worthy of my praise.

May we not lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5) or our own desire to lead (1 Corinthians 1:12); but may we live under the grace of His Gospel; His RED LETTERS.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Starting RIGHT not RELIGIOUS

2010-05-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

This morning, my sweet Eden woke up at 6am. Normally, her wake up time is between 6:45am - 7:45am. I fell for the deception that each morning would carry the same routine. This morning, my routine was thrown off and the ugly monster of my sin of religion came down like softball size hail on my heart. Please allow me to explain.

For the past 8 years, I have blocked out about an hour each morning for much needed devotional time to my Lord. Some days changed, but for the most part the schedule was consistent. My quiet times consist of Scripture reading, praying, journaling, and reading books to help me understand the Word better. I usually drink about a half pot of coffee in that time. This routine started after a challenge by my BFF Jonathan in the summer of 2002. His challenge was to try better consistency with my morning times with the Lord. I'm so glad I took that challenge. I love the mornings.

Well, I've learned as a new father that my desires can often be selfish. Some may argue that having consistent time each morning with the Lord is the main priority of the day. In most ways, I would agree. However, I've noticed that my routine can sometimes be the sin of religion hidden in complacent expectations. If I'm used to having an hour of devotion and then because of unexpected events, that time is shortened, why do I get upset? Why do I believe that time is my time without any interruptions? Why do I get in a bad mood when I'm thrown off my routine? I believe it is because of my sin of religion.

This morning, Eden woke up and changed my routine. I loved it. I walked into her dark room and watched her do her morning dance while making her joyful noises. Her dance consists of kicking her feet in the air and moving her shoulders back and forth. She looked at me with her gorgeous blue eyes and even giggled some. I loved it. I believe the morning started out RIGHT. Instead of rushing her to fall back asleep, I enjoyed the grace of being a father. Instead of stressing out because I didn't have time to write in my journal or read a few chapters in the Word, I enjoyed the blessing of new life waking up to blissful unknowns. Instead of praying for my needs and expectations, I held her in my arms and prayed for the grace of my Lord to one day save her. I started the morning out RIGHT, and praised my Father for the love He placed in my soul in being Eden's father.

Eden fell back asleep and I had about an hour to spend with my Lord. Another lesson learned today. May religion not stick it's ugly head in my soul anymore. May worship not be defined in morning rituals but rather heartfelt devotion to the only One that is mighty to save. May serving my daughter and loving her draw me to sweeter times with my Father in glory.

Psalm 63 really jumps out at me with this post. Take a few minutes and read it. Live in the RIGHT and avoid the RELIGIOUS temptations of the day.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Jaw is still on the floor

2010-05-18T11:03:00.000-07:00

My jaw is still on the floor. That's all I can say still after this past Sunday. Since January, the Holy Spirit has overwhelmed me with joy over the impact of the Young Preachers Society in my church. For the past 5 months, close to 10 different young preachers from high school took the pulpit and proclaimed the excellent Word of our Lord. This past Sunday was the culmination of an excellent adventure. 3 corporate worship services with 3 young preachers from the society. The result? Well, my jaw is still on the floor.

All 3 young preachers had the Word of God marinaded on their souls to where the flavor of His truth was poured out to His church. I didn't hear flashy stories or pointless humor. I didn't hear classless insults or prideful boasting. I didn't see superficial expressions or separated illustrations. What I saw and heard was the gracious voice of my Lord found in His Word with the help from His anointed young preachers. All 3 had the Word memorized and maintained in it's right context. All 3 were excited about their responsibility. All 3 took the pulpit with great humility. All 3 gave glory to the One that defines the Word. All 3 accurately showed the weight of sin and the sufficiency of Christ, the Victor. (All 3 opened my eyes to my first sermon 12 years ago. What a tragedy, that was!)

My jaw is still on the floor. I'm amazed by the power of my Lord. I hope the legacy that I attempted to leave will show my church that I was out preached by 3 guys who are at least a decade behind me. I pray my church will see the treasure of true student ministry; not in games or events, but in the display of the eternal worth of Christ found in the hearts of teenagers. I believe the Young Preachers Society painted that picture brilliantly this past Sunday.

I hope what Paul wrote to Timothy was what I left at Summit; "You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness." 2 Timothy 3:10

My jaw is still on the floor.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Church; Biblical or Clique...ical?

2010-05-13T13:28:00.000-07:00

If you have followed me in the past few weeks, you are probably aware that my time at my church is coming to an end. Last night was my final Wednesday night worship time with my students. I'm eternally grateful for the grace my Sovereign Lord has given me to preach His Word for the past 4 1/2 years at Summit. Last night, I challenged my students and adult leaders to think about the church. Are we Biblical...or (brace yourself, I made up this word) Cliqueical? Do we live by the Biblical model of church...or do we enjoy the selfish pleasures of being in a clique with church as its title? Below, I offer you 10 answers to this question. 5 answers will support the Biblical side (with Scripture), and 5 will support the Cliqueical side (without Scripture). These points were delivered last night to my students in our last time of worship together. Acts 2:42-47 will serve as the main text for these notes.

1. The Church is Devoted to the Word: Biblical. Looking at verse 42, you will see a sweet sentence of joy that the early church shared. Luke writes, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." I love this verse. Following Pentecost, the church was zealous toward the meditation and practical application of God's Word. Looking at this verse with a closer lens, you will notice 2 important words; "devoted" and "teaching." The former word can be translated as, "attending constantly," while the ladder word is translated, "doctrine." So, from these words, we can gather the fact that the church was constantly attending to the study and joy of doctrine. This is a beautiful picture of radical obedience and trust in the sufficiency of God's Word. What if we spent our collective energies on constantly attending to the study of God's truth? How would that change our churches? I believe we would see a shift from man-centered ideas to God-centered practice. It's interesting to me that the entire book of Acts is defined with just that; God-Centered, Spirit equipped practice of the advancement of His church.

2. A Clique wants quick solutions: Cliqueical. Above, we see the Biblical church devote time and efforts in constantly attending to the Word of God. A Clique that masquerades behind the church will strive for easy solutions and quick answers to their needs. From my angle, I see cliques very prevalent in church youth groups. A group of 15-20 church kids that devote all their time together will often want answers to questions that fancy their religious curiosity. For example, "How far is too far?" or "Is it OK for me to do this?" I've heard so many questions over the years from students that seem to like their youth group and have popularity as the goal for their age advancement. Cliques want quick solutions. They want to have comfortable answers in order to feel better about themselves. It's time for us to devote to the doctrines of our faith. Our questions need to be centered on areas such as: Who is God? And what is man? And Why the cross?

3. The Church is connected in fellowship: Biblical. Acts 2:42 offers us the vision of the early church; to live in fellowship. This word often gets diluted into the false assumption of eating or hobby sharing. We can go out to a fast food restaurant after a church service and talk about baseball...but does that define fellowship? Biblical churches look at fellowship at its core; to bind together for the goal of the Gospel and the edification of the redeemed. Sharing both joys and sufferings gives us a picture of the sweet definition of fellowship. Looking to Christ as the greatest prize on this earth naturally draws us to enjoy the presence of those that sing the eternal chorus. When churches fail in true fellowship, cliques run the halls and the mission is blurred. May we bind together in love (Colossians 3:12-14) and enjoy the Savior who is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22).

4. A Clique has a closed circle of fun: Cliqueical. I remember growing up in a church that had a vibrant youth group. I remember the middle school years of rejection and ridicule (I admit, I was a bit annoying). I remember closed circles around me. I also remember being in closed circles. You see, student ministries can often have a few circles of friends that leave walls for those on the outside to only hear the noise from a distance. I still regret the closed circles I embraced at the cost of others' pain. Cliques are closed circles. It's almost like coming to an intersection with no options for any turn. If our churches are full of closed circles of relationships that seek selfish gratification with excluding the Gospel...then our mission is tainted. May the Spirit lead us out of our comfortable circle of friends and reach those that are outside the camp as Hebrews 13:13-14 beautifully challenges.

5. The Church has a great reputation: Biblical. Acts 2:43-44 simply reads, "And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common." This verse jumps off the page at us with the exciting thought that at one time...the church had a great reputation! Looking at verse 43, we can see the response of those outside the camp...they were in AWE! What??!!! Luke is right. The church was living in Biblical soil which gave the sweet fragrance of God's grace to those around. What have we done wrong? From all the programming and useless spending...we have made a system that looks too much at the clique instead of the mission. The Spirit was at work. People responded with awe. Unity was visible. What do we have in common? It's hard to think that the answer to that question could define a clique more than a Biblical church.

6. A Clique gives a bad name: Cliqueical. I remember my days of traveling to churches and serving at various youth retreats. I remember the lasting impression I received from a church while working camp. This church came with obvious divisions. The youth minister's arrogance and attitude revealed some of the source. In just 5 days of camp, if my memory serves me correct, this group had at least 5 conflicts...with only 20 total in the group! Cliques leave bad names. If people walk inside our church doors and see divisions birthed from pride and unrepentant sin...we will give them the memory of a clique. If pastors or other leaders live with pride and unrepentant sin; religious cliques can form. Some cliques will spark disunity with others. Some will try to change things. Some will walk away. What kind of name does your church have in the community?

7. The Church is active in meeting needs: Biblical. Luke writes in Acts 2:45, "And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need." Churches live with the anticipation to meet needs. Our primary need is to reach the lost with the saving Gospel of our Lord. The primary need is defined in love with the physical need of helping others. We should be on the front line with the issues our world is facing today. Children dying from preventable diseases, women abandoned by their abusive husbands, orphans left without hope, elderly forgotten, etc. The early church was known for staying behind during times of great disease in order to assist others. Many died in their efforts of taking care of the sick. They were zealous in the advancement and application of the Gospel. In centuries that have separated us from this verse...what has happened? It seems that mission spending is often put at the bottom priority of the list with the disclaimer of specific restrictions to follow. May we open the doors and show generous Gospel-saturated truth and love to our dying community around us!

8. A Clique wants needs met: Cliqueical. Ok, I said it. Cliques come with a list of needs. We tend to have many high-maintenance folks that attend our churches. As churches exist for meeting needs for the lost...cliques exist for having their needs met. I would argue that having certain needs met in the church is Biblical. Hospital visitations, counseling, intercession ministries, etc. I would argue also that those fall more in line with the Biblical understanding of fellowship. Cliques want their agendas on the table...and applied. They want programming that offers rewards and prizes to satisfy the ego. They want the best any church can offer in order to hide their sin under the umbrella of comfortable acceptance. What has gone wrong? May our only needs me found in the sufficiency of the Savior and His Glorious Gospel!

9. A Clique wants comfortable and ordinary religious routine: Cliqueical. What if we had preaching to start the service with ALL the music to follow? What if we decided to have 1 Sunday in which we didn't gather corporately to worship, but rather focused on mass evangelism? What would happen if we slashed our professional expectation of routine worship and had open time of simple silence? What would happen if we held others accountable for their sins as an act of worship? I can tell you what would happen from the aspect of a clique-run church; rebellion. We tend to like our normal routine of religion. We tend to have uneasy feelings when new changes are brought and people we don't recognize join the church. This has to stop. Cliques like things the way they are...as long as their circle of friends aren't impacted. Churches follow the teachings of Scripture and live with wreck less joy over the glorious unknowns each day brings. Churches read passages like Matthew 6:25-34 and find comfort in the sovereignty of the Lord and not the routine of man's failed leadership.

10. The Church worships and the lost are redeemed: Biblical. Finally, Acts 2:46-47 reveals, "And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved." The church simply found Jesus to be the most worthy name to proclaim. The church found radical faith in His teachings...and they actually did them. I truly believe the church had worship as her focus; which led to the salvation of many. When the church finds nothing more satisfying than the adoration of praising God; the lost will see genuine joy and obedience is done as a response to love. Romans 5 will be proclaimed in such a way that the Gospel will be relevant...because the Gospel is lived. The Church worships and the lost are redeemed. The Lord accepts our worship and saves the lost. He receives the honor. He receives the praise. He receives the bride as His token.

So, what is your church: Biblical? or... Clique...ical?

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

A Hidden Splinter

2010-05-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

I hate splinters. I hate the way a cool evening barefoot walk on my back porch ends with Brooke helping pick wood out of my skin. I hate it when a splinter gets in my skin and time passes before it can be pulled out. Have you ever noticed that the longer you keep a splinter in, the more it hurts? The longer you wait to remove the splinter, the more dangerous it becomes as it buries itself more into your skin. Splinters must be recognized and removed. If they are ignored, they can cause serious infections and even allergic reactions. Ok, enough of my attempt to teach anything about our bodies...

Pride is like a hidden splinter that grows into thorny branches all over our body. Imagine the pain of a splinter and multiply that to equal branches made of them...all over your skin. That thought should hurt! Pride begins with our attempt to find self-glorification over the worship of our Lord. This can be found in anything from our attempts to being the center of attention, to denial of biblical repentance over known sin, to believing our views and opinions are the only ones that matter, to refusing to accept help with our own depravity. There are more ways to look at pride, but these are some to serve my point in this post. Pride is a hidden splinter that buries into our souls and causes pain like no other. Unlike splinters that we get by wood, glass, plastic, or medal; the splinters of pride impact others. It's almost like once we receive the entrance of our splinter; someone near us receives it as well. Pride rubs off on others in a way that causes disunity, distrust, and division. Churches that crumble often begin the inward explosion by the refusal to see the problem...either from her leaders or members. Both fall into the trap of a hidden splinter; pride.

I like how CJ Mahaney writes on this subject. In his great book Humility: True Greatness, he writes, "Pride takes innumerable forms but has only one end; self-glorification. That's the motive and ultimate purpose of pride - to rob God of legitimate glory and to pursue self-glorification, contending for supremacy with Him." (Mahaney, 32). That's the hidden splinter! We can respond to the sin and pain of pride by ignoring its reality...but the longer we tally, the worst affect it brings. What are you doing today to actively remove the hidden splinter of pride in your life? Trust me, it's there. I have it and have to daily repent of it in order to celebrate in the grace of my Great Physician's touch of removal. I hate it. I hate the way it hurts me and others. I want to fully acknowledge its presence in my life and find the daily need for its removal. I hope more will join me.

Some helpful Scriptures I have found on this splinter.

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom" - Proverbs 11:2

"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. ... Pride
goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall" - Proverbs 16:18

"One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor" - Proverbs 29:23

"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up" - James 4:6-10

How can you get rid of this splinter? First, acknowledge it's there! Second, seek its removal. Third, be careful to not walk in such a way that it will return. Refusing to acknowledge your sin is the work of pride. Refusing to remove your sin by true repentance is the work of pride. Refusing to walk in the light of the One who offers removal is the work of pride. I strongly recommend you to examine your life and own up to whatever you find to be self-glorifying.

One final note of encouragement; be careful with your view of humility. We tend to think of humility is only defined in our broken seasons and trials. I believe Biblical humility is acknowledging the position of our Lord and gratefully living in our position as worshippers. William Law writes, "You can have no greater sign of confirmed pride than when you think you are humble enough." Be careful. Even boasting in walking with no fear of splinters can surprise you. Just a few days ago, I received a splinter by pulling weeds. My definition of splinters grew that day.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

2 Friends serving as mints

2010-05-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

When I get nervous, I have to put mints in my mouth. It's a strange thing, but the mints calm my stomach down...which prevents me from giving up whatever is in me! I know, TMI. Anyways, mints have always served as a much needed relief from something big to come. The toughest moments of my life bring a necessity for mints; the hardest come with preaching. There's just something about standing in front of a body of people with the task of bringing a message from God's Word that makes me shake. I love preaching. It terrifies me. I need mints.

This past Sunday, I needed mints. I stood before my church family and announced my resignation and future plans for ministry in Alabama. Before I walked to the stage, I had my mints. They helped. During the first service, I downed about 10 mints before walking to the stage. During the second service, something happened that overcame my need for mints.

I have 2 dear friends named Brad and Ben. Before I walked to the stage to announce the saddest news I've given in a long time...my friends sat next to me. I had their support. I had their brotherhood. I had no need for mints. I had friends that supported me during a time of much anxiety and nervousness.

Friends are better than mints. We need them to stand next to us during trials and seasons. This past Sunday, my gracious Lord showed me more beautiful meanings behind Proverbs 27:17 with 2 dear friends that gave support to me that weighed far more than any mints could even compare. I'm grateful for them. They sharpened me (from Proverbs 27:17). They served as my mints. More than that, they acted like family.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Why I love student ministry

2010-04-30T06:08:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday night this week, I announced to my students at Summit that I will leaving soon to begin a new season of student ministry in Alabama. The news was a shock to many. Some were hurt and some were upset. I wrote this on my twitter before I went to bed that night, "Tonight was one of the hardest AND glorious nights of my life." I meant that. I still mean that. Looking into the eyes of my students and sharing my departure took the very heart out of my chest for a second and placed it back in with cuts. I love my church at Summit. I've been blessed for close to 5 years to work in such a great church with a great group of students and adults. These next few weeks will come with many tears and laughter as I say goodbye to many that I love and anticipate meeting new family in a new state. So, for the purpose of my face remaining dry as I type, I want to submit to you a few reasons why I love student ministry. These reasons come after my experience this past Wednesday night at Summit.

1. I love student ministry because students catch a glimpse of God's glory in a way that adults can follow. On Wednesday night, I shared from Acts 1, 20, and 1 Timothy 6 the reasons for my departure. The Spirit, in only a way that HE can, drew us together to see the glory of the Savior in the midst of tears. We saw in His Word that a time came for Paul to leave Timothy, the Ephesian elders, and Jesus with His disciples. After we gazed upon the beauty of God's Word, my students did the unthinkable...they worshipped. WHAT? YES. In an evening that they should've went home and left their church...they remained and exalted the Risen Savior. With hands lifted, we sang hymns of centuries old, songs of new, and combined joy in the presence of the Lord. How could they possibly have such a response like this? Many of them GET IT.

2. I love student ministry because students want to know about this man named Jesus...not Dave. During our time together on Wednesday night, we looked at 1 Corinthians 3:4-7. In this text, Paul calls out the tendency to follow man, instead of the glory of the Lord. Many in the church today fall into this trap. We follow man that sins instead of the Savior who became SIN for us. I've made mistakes in student ministry. I know some may find that to be surprising...but it's true! I'd like to think that success can be defined in any ministry when the leader is called away and the followers are still amazed by Jesus the Nazarene. If people follow the leader...than Christ was not the subject of the ministry. On Wednesday night, after the message was over...students lifted their hands out to the Father with united hearts of adoration. Only a few came up to me and told me that they would miss me. Am I upset by that? NO. On the contrary, I am refreshed in His presence to see the result of His kingdom come.

3. I love student ministry because students share in the joy of others. Before I made my announcement of my departure to my students, 3 young men that I've had the joy of mentoring over the years met with me in the parking lot. I looked these 3 in the eye, with much love, and shared my news of leaving. To my joyful surprise, all 3 were excited and hugged me. They expressed their desire for my ministry leadership to grow. They hugged me. They walked inside the room and worshipped with their peers. Since my announcement, I've had facebook messages, texts, tweets, etc., with joy and excitement for the new season. Do you know what this communicates to me? SELFLESS abandonment to the Father. Adults can learn from this. Leaders in church can learn from this. I learned from this Wednesday night. I pray I can have that maturity and joy when those I love depart for God-glorifying reasons.

I love student ministry. I'm excited about the new season to come. I am sad for the conclusion of this season at Summit. I'm grateful for the opportunity Summit gave me to serve. I'm grateful for the patience of many, and the prayers of the saints. Above all, I'm grateful for the grace of my Lord who equipped me by His Spirit, energized me through the Gospel of His Son, to proclaim the truth of His Name.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Living Room Sessions

2010-04-26T16:40:00.000-07:00

"The Living Room Sessions" was the name of an album put on by Chris Rice back around 2001. The album is a simple collection of old hymns that Chris recorded on his piano...in his living room. If you listen closely to the songs, you will hear the sound of the pedals and other noises that mixing would often eliminate. It is a cherished album in my collection that I go to often for musical praise of my Savior.

This evening, I had the sweet privilege of having my own living room session with Eden. She sat in her pink bouncy seat next to me as I played her a few songs on the piano. It brought joy to my soul as she stared at me while my lips sang songs of beautiful theology to her soul. I pray one day she will know these songs and will cherish them as she worships her Redeemer. So often, we get so caught up with trying to be professional in ministry that we fail to enjoy the simple sessions of family worship. I'm convinced that a simple evening of playing old hymns with the company of my daughter outweighs any work that I could accomplish behind a desk.

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him." Psalm 28:7.

At the end of the day...what will your song be?

The Rejoicing Overflow of the Spirit

2010-04-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

There has been much talk for some time now about the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. This third member of the Holy Trinity has always amazed me. How can we understand Him? How can we know how He operates? I believe we flirt with spiritual arrogance if we try to label
Him in a way that fits with our own framework. We must be biblical. We must also be worshipers in His powerful Name. Below are some of my notes that I recently used in the sermon I was allowed to preach at Summit's OIKOS (the HS worship service). I pray they will edify you as we rejoice in the overflow of the Holy Spirit. The "He" I am referring to is our glorious Savior in Acts 1:1-8.

1. Before He ascended, He promised the gift that leads us today. Take a few moments and read Acts 1:1-5. You'll see Luke mentioned as the author; connected to the book of Luke in verse 2. You'll see a glorious connection with 1 Corinthians 15:7-9 in verse 3. The rest of the passage gives us the promise of the Holy Spirit. We must be careful not to get so absorbed into our studying that we neglect the role of the Spirit. In case you want a quick overview of the role of the Spirit, here are some references that I found to be useful:

i. Genesis 1:2 – Spirit created the world.
ii. Judges 14:6 – empowered Samson to tear apart a lion
iii. Psalm 51:11 – begged for the Spirit NOT to leave him (David)
iv. Joel 2:28-32 – Spirit is poured on the people to communicate with him.
v. Matthew 1:18 – part of delivering the Christ to Mary.
vi. Romans 8:9-11 – key and central for our salvation.
vii. Ephesians 1:13-14 – Spirit seals our salvation
viii. 2 Timothy 1:14 – Spirit dwells in us, guards us.

A quote from Francis Chan that I find to be useful -
I’m willing to bet there are millions of churchgoers across America who cannot confidently say they have experienced His presence or action in their lives over the past year. And many of them do not believe they can. The benchmark of success in church services has become more about attendance than the movement of the Holy Spirit. The “entertainment” model of church was largely adopted in the 1980’s and ‘90’s and while it alleviated some of our boredom for a couple of hours a week, it filled our churches with self-focused consumers rather than self-sacrificing servants attuned to the Holy Spirit….The light of the American church is flickering and nearly extinguished, having largely sold out to the kingdoms and values of this world….We are not all we were made to be when everything in our lives and churches can be explained apart from the work and presence of the Spirit of God….shouldn’t there be a huge difference between the person who has the Spirit of God living inside of him or her and the person who does not?”

The Spirit will NEVER lead us to say or do anything contrary to God’s Word…because it is the Spirit that gave it to us! (2 Peter 1:21) The Spirit CONNECTS us to the Word. An example from my own life recently was our recent mission trip to New Orleans. Brooke and I prayed for an opportunity to share the Gospel with a family. We believe the Spirit led a Hindu couple to us within seconds after we ended the prayer! The true Gospel was preached. So, the Spirit's role, in that situation, was connecting a couple to hear the Word...which the Spirit gave men thousands of years ago to write! Go back and read 2 Peter 1:21 for more insight on that. This makes sense…the author (God, the Spirit), would want us to know what the book is about!

2. Before He ascended, He gave the commandment that we live by today. Take a few moments and read Acts 1:6-8. In verse 6, we see the desire of the disciples was still leaning toward a military and political power to drive out the Romans. In Acts 1:7, we see a beautiful reminder of the sovereign control of our great Lord. May we not walk in our own ways of thinking that neglect to daily worship the Lord for His sovereignty! In Acts 1:8, we see our commandment given. We must live by this commandment daily! Part of millions of pictures of God's grace is His Spirit empowering us (with both the Word and the Opportunity) to preach His Gospel! Are you doing that? In verse 8, we see the word “witness” – martyreo – used. This word translates the idea of willing to live and die for the Gospel. It goes far beyond the simple command of witnessing…it's to live the Gospel! Romans 12:1-2. Are you doing that?

How does this apply to you? I believe C.H. Spurgeon said it best when he once wrote, "A sinner can no more repent and believe without the Holy Spirit's aid than he can create a world." May we as broken sinners, trust and rejoice in the overflow of the Spirit. May we submit to His leadership...which points us to Christ...which glorifies the Father.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Sheep or Goat?

2010-04-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

This post comes from the message that I was privileged to give yesterday at Northstar church; a church just a few miles from where I live. During my recent mission trip to New Orleans, this text really challenged my walk. I have a simple question for you; are you a sheep or a goat? Are you on the RIGHT side of the King…or are you LEFT out of His kingdom? Take just a few minutes and read Matthew 25:31-46. I’ll wait.

These are some points that I’ve gathered from the text.

1. Sheep = RIGHT with the Lord.
a. His Right Defeated Sin (Salvation)
- Moses teaches us in Exodus 15:6 that the Lord’s right hand is glorious in power…and shatters the enemy. This verse occurs after the glorious parting of the Red Sea and the defeated of the Egyptians. I love the promise of this verse. We are given the defeat of sin, the glorious right hand of God…by way of the cross. Jesus tells Caiaphas in Matthew 26:64 that He alone will be seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven. This verse brings chill bumps to my soul! Jesus, the glorious One, tells one of His accusers that He alone is the RIGHT and glorious treasure that will conquer sin and return in glory. We are told in Hebrews 12:2 that we must, “Look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame and is seated at the right hand of God” What glory! As sheep to His right, we are given the gift of Jesus…the one that endured the cross and gave us the perfection of our own faith! Finally, we see in Colossians 3:1 that we must, “been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the RIGHT hand of God.” Christ is seated at the RIGHT hand of God…and as sheep, we join Him on His side. What grace!
b. His Right draws us to the Pasture (Worship)
- Looking to Matthew 25:40, we see the ROOT of our mission…to worship Jesus. Whenever we help the homeless, feed the hungry, take care of the oppressed, and preach the Gospel…we are doing it all for worship. Are you in His pasture? Are you grazing on His glorious field? Is Christ your shepherd? Psalm 23 comes to mind here. What field are you grazing? What satisfies your soul? Jesus told us in John 10:27 that, “My sheep hear my voice and I know them, and they will follow me.” Does He know you? Do you know Him? What do you worship?
c. His Right identifies us with His mission (Evangelism)
- Matthew 9:36 really jumps out to me. Matthew writes that when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion on them as sheep without a shepherd. When we realize His saving power and worship Him for His grace…we must look to others with the same compassion. What mission are you on? Matthew 25:35-39 tells us the mission.

2. Goats = LEFT out of His Kingdom
a. Left side people aren’t saved.
- John 3:36 really jumps out here. John teaches us that, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not OBEY the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. Left side people, goats, aren’t saved. They don’t turn to His saving power over sin. They don’t listen to His commands. They live for themselves. Jesus tells us that one day He will command us to depart from Him, because he never knew us! (Matthew 7:23)
b. Left side people rob Him of His worship…for now.
- Galatians 5:20 shows us how this happens. Left side people, goats, live by the desires of their own flesh. What do you live for? Matthew 6:19 tells us that left side people spend their resources on treasures of this earth. They aren’t looking after the needs of others. They are seeking what will please themselves. Does this fit your life today? Philippians 2:10-11 tells us that one day…left side people will worship…but only when it is too late and the wrath of the Holy God is on them. Don’t let that happen to you!
c. Left Side people live by their own mission.
- Go back and read Matthew 25:41-46. Does this fit you? Left side people reject the mission of the Savior. They live for themselves. Don’t fall into this sinful trap. Leonard Ravenhill once said, “Christians spend more money on dog food than on global missions.” What a tragedy! I’m not saying dogs should starve…but we should approach the mission with great joy and urgency. John 14:15 really hits it on the bull’s eye. If we love our Savior, if we are RIGHT with Him…than we should do what He commands.

Friend, today, come to the RIGHT side of the King. Repent of your left-sided, sinful, selfish living. Turn to the only One that has redeemed you from the darkness of the left. May you enjoy and graze upon His field of glory forever.

Soli Deo Gloria!
Dave

Why is Resurrection Day so important?

2010-04-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

Why is Resurrection Day so important? In order for us to fully get a glimpse of the beauty of this weekend, we must tackle this question. This weekend is a glorious reminder of the grace, mercy, kindness, power, and glory of our Lord. For just a few minutes, let's focus in on a few points together that will guide us in celebrating over the empty tomb. You may want to have John 20 open with me as we look at these points together.

The Empty Tomb brings excitement in worship.
-You may notice in John 20:1-2 the excitement that arose to the early morning followers. The first verse lets us know why we gather on Sunday morning for worship. We gather, on the first day of the week, to worship in great excitement. I'm not too legalistic with the fact that it HAS to be Sunday we worship as a church body...but I'm sold on the riches of Sunday morning. I wonder...do we wake up on Sunday mornings with great excitement in worship? Do we sing, fellowship, listen, read, and serve in a way that radiates the power of the empty tomb? It's sometimes difficult for me to worship with excitement because of a long list of responsibilities that come with being a staff member. I'm convicted by this. I want to wake up on Sundays with excitement over worship.

I remember a time early in my ministry when I was asked to play the organ in my church. I wasn't familiar with all the organ buttons...and pedals. Well, during the invitation...I experimented with the pedal of the organ. My curiosity led me to believe that the pedal was to serve as a sustaining tool for the instrument. It wasn't. It was the volume pedal. I managed to make an entire row of blue-haired women jump during the response to the Gospel. There was excitement that morning in worship.
-I love how John 20:3-4 shows us the fact that John was more athletic than Peter. How important is it that we know that John beat Peter to the empty tomb? I love the Bible. May we wake up this Sunday morning with Psalm 100:2 in our souls; "Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs." Let us worship with the JOY that our Savior is alive! Let us worship with gladness that He is ALIVE and we are ALIVE in Him!

The Empty Tomb brings clarity to Scripture.
-John 20:8-9 shows us the importance of Scripture in the life, ministry, atonement, and resurrection of our Lord. I love how the Scriptures tell us that the disciples were overwhelmed with excitement over the empty tomb...and were focusing on the ramifications the experience had on understanding Scripture. 2 male witnesses came to the tomb...to verify the testimony of the women. This perfectly connects to Deuteronomy 17:6 and 19:15. The Empty tomb was a believable and credible story with Scripture being fulfilled in the witness of the 2 male disciples. I wonder if we approach the empty tomb with the certainty on our questions being answered in Scripture? Do we see the resurrection as the culmination and definition of the entire Bible? Paul reminds us that, "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith," 1 Corinthians 15:14. I love this story. John and Peter had a Biblical discussion on the way home. Peter would later take the encounter of the empty tomb and use it to preach...Scripture. Take just a moment and read Psalm 16:10. After you read this verse, see how Peter uses it to help bring clarity to Scripture in preaching on the empty tomb in Acts 2:25-28.

The Empty Tomb brings Transformation.
-Finally, we see in John 20:11-29...two stories of two people being transformed by the empty tomb. Mary becomes a missionary (John 20:11-18) and Thomas becomes a believer (John 20:24-29). The empty tomb transformed the lives of these two heroes of the faith. How has the resurrection transformed you?

When I was a child, my mother MADE me take piano lessons. I hated it. I had to practice each day for about 15-20 minutes...in order to impress someone that I didn't care about in a 30 minute lesson. For years, I had no joy or passion for the piano. I wanted an escape. After many years of nagging, my parents allowed me to quit taking lessons. When I turned 15, my aunt Leta passed away. Leta was an incredible pianist. I loved visiting her home and sitting in the living room as she played for us. I'll never forget the immediate transformation that took place in my life as soon as she passed away. I blew the dust off of my piano books and began to play. In just a few days, I wrote a song for her that was played at her memorial service. Now, as a 27 year old, I have passion and excitement to play. What happened? I saw the treasure of the instrument.

So often, we go to church because we HAVE to. We do quiet times because we feel like we HAVE to. We develop a distaste for the very treasure that we should celebrate. I truly believe if we look at the victory and infinite worth of the empty tomb, we will daily live as transformed, adopted, children of the Most High. Instead of going to church this Sunday morning because you HAVE to...why not read John 19-21 and see the importance of the celebration? See the victory that is both yours and mine in the empty grave.

Friend, Resurrection Day is important. Let us celebrate together this Sunday.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Faith in...

2010-03-29T12:55:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the joy of reading "Big God" by Britt Merrick. This incredible book highlights the necessity to live and walk by faith. It was a great read. Several chapters of the book highlight the heroes of the faith as mentioned in Hebrews 11. As I read this book, I was challenged with the level and intensity of my own faith. A few questions came to mind that I gladly submit to you today:

1. Are you living by faith?
2. What is faith?
3. How are we justified by faith in Christ?
4. What would the world look like if believers lived daily by faith?
5. Is your faith in the imperishable or the perishable?

Right now, some dear friends of mine are waiting to take their baby home from the hospital. Chris and Kristin Colquitt welcomed sweet Emma Katherine into the world last Tuesday. Emma is still in the hospital due to complications with her birth. My dear friends left the hospital on Saturday night without their baby. I hurt for them. I'm tearing up as I type these words. Please join me in prayer for sweet Emma to come home with her parents.

What is getting my friends thru each difficult day? Faith. What is guiding their joy? Faith. What is keeping them strong in their marriage and health? Faith. Their faith and assurance in the providence of God has been a refreshment to me. The least I can do is mention their names in this post and honorably place them as heroes of the faith in my eyes. They are still suffering. Please pray.

I have faith in the gracious and Sovereign Lord of this world. I have faith that the tomb of His Son is empty. I have faith in His saving grace. I have faith in His eternal joy. I have faith that He is fully able to strengthen Emma Kate and allow her the privilege of going home with her parents. I have faith in His blazing glory that outweighs the frailty of man's thoughts and opinions.

Perhaps if we spent more time lifting each other up in prayer...in honor of our Lord...we wouldn't have the issues in our churches that we do today? Perhaps if we lived by our faith and not by our selfish sight, we would continue to see His Kingdom advance on this earth? Begin today, in faith, and pray for my dear friends; the Colquitts.

Soli Deo Gloria

Dave

Outward appearances don't impress me

2010-03-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

Today, I was in Lifeway Christian bookstore casually looking at children's books with Brooke and Eden. While we were in the store, I noticed a man entering the store dressed in his finest. His luxurious car was parked just a few spots away from mine. As I watched and listened to his conversation, I quickly picked up on the fact that he seemed to be a pastor. Trying my best not to judge him, I looked at books to steal away my attention. It was hard. His expensive suit, loud talking, and arrogant demeanor simply floored me. Outward appearances don't impress me.

This morning, I read 1 Thessalonians 2. Verse 8 was a challenge for me. In this verse, Paul writes, "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." Paul's love for that church drew him to give not only eloquent sermons and letters...but also a passion to share some of his life with the people. The verse dripped humility right off the page. I was speechless. I was convicted. I was burdened.

Please join me back in my Lifeway story. As I was watching this man pace back and forth in the bookstore, I began to wonder about what pastors should and shouldn't do. My area of ministry today is students. Some would call me a "youth director" or "youth coordinator." I personally see myself in the role of being a pastor to students at my church. I see the importance of not only preaching the Gospel to them, but living it with them daily. This man in the bookstore seemed to be important...and I'm convinced he knew he was! I wonder if those in his church see the Gospel in him? I wonder if my students see the Gospel in me?

I'm not impressed with flashy accomplishments or large successes in ministry. What impresses me is seeing pastors and leaders preach AND live the Gospel with their churches. We can't afford to waste our time and money on the worldly aspect of our jobs. May our words, our money, our resources, our time, and our passion be on living the Gospel.

I typed much more...but accidently deleted it.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Jesus, the Supreme Savior

2010-03-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

This post was inspired by the message I gave last night to our middle school students. Last night, we looked Christ being the perfect and living Word of God. We took time to examine three points from Scripture. This post will simply highlight the third point, for it had the most impact on my life. This has been a tough week of ministry and seeing this point from God's Word last night brought joy to my restless soul.

The third point from last night's message was simply, "The Perfection of Jesus reaches to our need." With this point, we examined Hebrews 4:15. This is what the author of Hebrews writes, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."(ESV). What is this verse actually teaching us? How can Jesus sympathize with what we struggle with here on this earth? Does He even have a clue to what we battle? I believe if you take the time to examine the Scriptures, you will be surprised to note how many issues you deal with were experienced by your Savior long ago. Last night, we covered 4 issues. I may sneak in a 5th issue if time allows.

Issue #1 - Friends deserting you –
1. Luke 22:54-62 – Peter denies knowing Jesus. (Peter, who walked with Jesus and traveled with Him, denied Him at His toughest hour.)
2. Matthew 26:36-46 – Disciples sleep in their last night with Jesus. (Jesus requested the disciples to stay awake and to be alert...they slept. Have you trusted your friends to help you or do something for you...and they drop the ball? Jesus experienced that.)

Issue #2 - Death –
1. John 11:35 – Jesus wept. At the death of Lazarus. (Jesus wept at the death of his dear friend. True, He did raise Lazarus back from the grave, but before that miracle took place, our Savior experienced the brokenness of losing a loved one.)
2. Mathew 4:3-13 – death of John the Baptist (Jesus lost His precious cousin to a sinful monarchy system. His own cousin that prepared the way for His ministry.)
*This shows us that Jesus experienced losing both a friend and family member while He walked the earth.

Issue #3 - Temptation -
1. Matthew 4, Mark 1, Luke 4…in the wilderness. (Jesus experienced a strong attack of temptation while glorifying His Father. When we find ourselves in strong attacks of temptation, let us cling to the Savior who is able to sympathize with our temptation.)

Issue #4 - Family issues -
1. John 7:2-5 – brothers rejected him. (In this passage, you will read about His own brothers ridiculing and rejecting Him. When we find ourselves in situations in our own families of rejection, let us cling to our Savior who experienced that pain before us.)

Issue #5 - The Most Important Issue...YOUR SIN.

Genesis 2:17 - God ordained a law in the garden. Death would occur if this law was broken.

Genesis 3:1-7 - The Law was broken by our parents. Sin came into the world.

Genesis 3:21 - God showed His marvelous grace by replacing their death with a substitute sacrifice...a verse to later show us the treasure of Jesus (John 1:29)

Romans 3:23, 5:12-19, 6:23 - God's Word shows us that we all have this problem, this issue that is non curable. The only remedy is found in a substitute death for our problem.

2 Corinthians 5:21, Ephesians 1:7, Romans 5:8, Galatians 3:13, 1 John 4:10 - We see these verses showing us the love of our Father. In His mercy, He poured the death sentence on His only Son and giving us in replacement His grace...as shown to our parents in Genesis 3:21. We are forgiven. We have adoption. We have the perfect definition of love.

Let us worship today Jesus, our Supreme Savior. Let us quit fighting battles that hinder the Gospel mission. Let us quit living as religious people that know it all...but as children of God who love the One that knows it all.

My rambling is done. Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

What am I doing?

2010-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

I recently read a book entitled, "Brothers We Are Not Professionals" by John Piper. I recommend this book to anyone that is actively involved in a position of ministry leadership. Many times, I've asked myself the question, "What am I doing?" I mean, honestly...what is this thing called "ministry" all about? I'm reminded of this question when people ask me what I do for a living. It's often times very humorous to see the response of others when I give my answer.

Piper writes with such eloquence, "Our first business is to pant after God in prayer. Our business is to weep over sins...our business is to strain forward to the holiness of Christ and the prize of the upward call of God ... to pummel our bodies and subdue them lest we be cast away ... to deny ourselves and to take up the blood spattered cross daily." This quote was taken from the book I mentioned above). I love this quote. It has helped me to draw my affections to what the Word instructs when it comes to answering the great question..."What am I doing?"

2 Corinthians 4 is arguably one of the finest chapters in the New Testament to explain the joy of ministry. Paul begins this chapter by writing, "Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart." (2 Cor. 4:1) I love this verse. What is "this ministry" that Paul is speaking of? You must read the rest of the chapter to see the ministry. One verse that jumps out at me is found in 4:7. In this verse, Paul writes, "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." Think about this verse with me. We have this treasure (the light of our Savior shining in the darkness) in us! We are given the grace of shining the light of our Lord so others may see Him for His infinite worth (Matthew 5:16).

Paul really leads us to understand more of what ministry truly means. It's not just simply sitting in an office all day answering emails and pleasing every person that stops by. It's not just simply standing on a stage each week to speak or lead in some form or fashion. It's not just simply attending conferences and listening to others share how to do ministry better. It's not just simply setting up a twitter account so we can complain about the day to others that are superficially interested. It's not just demanding more and more for us while others in 3rd world countries are perishing without the Gospel. I can easily fall into the trap of what I just mentioned...as well as countless other flaws that my Father so graciously offers His patience over.

What am I doing? I hope and pray that I'm joyfully shining the Gospel Light of my Savior to the lost and dying. I hope and pray that I'm diligently lifting up prayers to my Father in hopes for His Spirit to revive His church, for His great glory. I hope and pray that I'm not wasting my hours in the office...but effectively engaging in opportunities that can fulfill the Great Commission daily.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

I love my church

2010-02-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, I will be returning to my office. For the past 2 weeks, my church has graciously allowed me to spend intentional time with my family as we welcomed Eden into our lives on February 10th. Words can't do justice to the joy we have in our church family. This short post is my attempt to communicate to whomever...the love I have for Summit Baptist Church.

I've read Acts 2 several times. However, I've never experience the practical side of Acts 2:42-47 until Eden was born. For the past 10 evenings, we've had meals brought to our home by different families from our church. Each meal was incredible. However, what made the meal more delicious than its actual taste was the touch of love from each family that delivered it. The early church in Acts 2 put their possessions on the table for the purpose of lifting each other up for radiating a Biblical community...for the glory of the Father. That is exactly what we've experienced in our home. I've never been a part of a church that was so giving and so practical with the SHOWING of the Gospel than Summit Baptist. I've heard many preachers and people speak on the Gospel...but to actually show the Gospel makes the words into a much needed reality.

I've been on staff, in ministry, for 9 years now. In those 9 years, I've experienced victories as well as sorrows. I've had my heart broken as well as mended. I've seen the joy of unity as well as the brokenness of division. However, in my 9 years of serving, I've never felt such love until Summit ministered to my family in the past 2 weeks. Again, I love my church.

Tomorrow, I will be returning to my office. I will be returning with a greater joy and appreciation for the bride I serve. I will return with an excitement to reach the lost with the Gospel and to join hands with a body of believers to impact the community with more than just words...with the heart application of the text itself. I pray pastors and ministers will never take their churches for granted. We should praise our gracious Lord daily that He gives us the privilege of serving her.

Summit, I love you. I can't wait for my Eden to come soon on Sunday morning to experience the genuine worship that many of you bring to the Father. See you Sunday.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Pocked Call from a Saint

2010-02-21T08:31:00.000-08:00

I just got off the phone with Boyd Smith, my student ministry mentor. Boyd didn't mean to call, he pocked-called. If you aren't familiar with that term, it basically means Boyd put his cell phone in his pocket and bumped it enough to call mine. I'm so glad he pocked-called, because I got to hear my mentor spend some time with his students in the last session of their D-Now weekend. I heard the beautiful song of fellowship within teenagers and their youth pastor.

I first met Boyd in the late fall of 2000 at Murray State University. Immediately, he took me under his wing and helped me learn ministry. Boyd made a few calls and helped me (with the Holy Spirit's direction), land my first student ministry position at West Fork Baptist Church. After two years of serving that sweet church, Boyd invited me to join him on staff at First Baptist Murray...a time of my life that I still treasure. For just 1 year, I got to work side by side with my mentor. Boyd showed me how to connect with students, reach the lost, and preach the Gospel with great faithfulness. Boyd was so patient with me in my time of development as a leader. He treated me with the up most respect and tenderness. After that year was completed in his ministry, I left for seminary in New Orleans. I still miss those days with my dear brother. Having him next to me in my wedding party was another treasure that I pray I'll always hold in my heart.

Boyd has been a student minister for quite a while now. I'm sure he will hit me for saying this, but he is in his mid-50's now. Most arrogant "ministry professionals" would look at his age and make the call that it's time for Boyd to move on. I fully disagree. Some pastors would probably suggest a position of working with senior adults or older families. I fully disagree. Some experts of student ministry would claim that he is too far removed from relating to students. I fully disagree. In the 20 minutes of listening to Boyd Smith talk with his students, I sat in my quiet time chair, praising the Lord for the faithfulness of my mentor. He connects better with students than I do...and I'm currently 27.

I would gladly forfeit my student ministry position to Boyd Smith in a heartbeat. His age means nothing to me when it comes to his ability and anointing to be an excellent youth minister. His knowledge of the Word, His compassion for hurting students, and his excellent way of mentoring young men is rare these days. It seems younger ministers want larger churches, more press, more esteem, more books written...and fewer time with people. I praise the Lord that Boyd Smith is paving the way today for many younger men...including me.

Today, I was pocked-called from a saint. I hope to one day enjoy fellowship with him as a few states separate us. I pray those students at FBC Murray will receive the grace from our Sovereign Lord in the form of a true youth PASTOR that will help lead them to graze in glorious pasture.

Boyd, even though you didn't mean to...thanks for calling me today. What a joy it was, my friend, to hear you love and lead your students.

Soli Deo Gloria!

God's work in a Name

2010-02-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

My precious daughter was born at 9:13pm on Wednesday, February 10, 2010. The many hours of labor and emergency "C-Section" are just a blur to my bride now as she holds our girl in her arms. Words cannot fully express the emotions we have carried in us over the last week. In just a week of my daughter's life, I've learned so much about true Biblical fatherhood and leadership. John 3:30 is one of many verses that has drawn my steps to live selflessly, in order for my bride to recover and my daughter to develop. I love this. I can see why being a husband and father far exceeds my role as a minister. However, I don't see my roles separated. Being a husband and father has given me more passion and revival to serve in the capacity of ministry. I think separating the roles is more dangerous than healthy. Today, I'm captivated by the beauty of Brooke and Eden...which draws my joy to a healthy love for the church. I praise my gracious Father for the joy of my family. I truly believe the addition of Eden has increased my love for the family of faith that we belong to.

God works wonders in a name. Yesterday, as Eden was asleep in my arms, I read Psalm 8. If you haven't read it yet, take time today and glance over it. At the conclusion of this post, I'll include it at the bottom. God works wonders in a name. Here are some from the Bible to give you an idea of what I'm talking about:

Abraham - "Father of many"
Amittai - "My Truth"
Asher - "Blessed or Happy"
Boaz - "Swiftness"
David - "Beloved"
Ebenezer - "Stone of Health"
Eden - "Place of Pleasure"
Elisha - "My God is Salvation"
Eliud - "God is Grandeur"
Gabriel - "Strong Man of God"
Habakkuk - "Embrace"
Hannah -"Grace"
Israel - "God Contended"
Jeremiah - "YAHWEH is uplifted"
Jesus - "YAHWEH is salvation"

Ok, I'll stop at Jesus. I hope you get the idea. Take some time and research the names that appear in the Bible. I hope it will be a treasured time for you. There is power in a name. What does your name mean? After reading Psalm 8, I see worship centered on simply His Name alone. I love how the Psalmist cries out a majestic song of praise to the name of our Lord. We named our daughter; Eden Chara Snyder for multiple reasons. Below, I'd like to submit to you a few that have increased my joy in my Lord over the last week. At the conclusion of that, I will post Psalm 8. Thank you for reading!

Eden - Her first name ties the idea of pleasure into our family. In the past week, she has indeed been a pleasure to us. I love watching her open her gorgeous blue eyes and stare into mine. I love seeing her attempt to smile when she has a few minutes of awareness before her sleep takes her. Eden has brought such a pleasure to my soul that translates into a deeper pleasure for my Lord. She has been my living commentary on Psalm 139 over the past 7 days. The Lord gave her life to us to give me more of a pleasure for my family and my church. I've been reminded of the pleasure that surrounds me when a body of believers lift one another up for the purpose of edifying the kingdom and praising the Savior that ransomed us from the debt of sin! Hallelujah!

Chara - Her middle name comes from the Greek New Testament word for joy. Eden has indeed been a joy to us. In the mornings when I tend to have my time of devotional with my Lord, Eden often sleeps on my chest. When my joy is complete in being in the presence and fellowship of my Lord...my daughter adds increased joy to her presence with her daddy. As I have joy from my Father in Heaven, my sweet daughter gives me joy when she is with me. I pray one day she will be graciously led to salvation and will shed joy to others with the happiness she has with her Savior.

I've left Snyder off because that's my last name...and I 'm tired. I guess I could say she will one day love pretzels?

God works in a Name. Friend, 2,000 years ago, He sent the name of Jesus (YAHWEH IS SALVATION) to remove the penalty of our sins (Romans 6:23, John 3:36), to rise again on the third day (John 20), and to cover us with the eternal love of our glorious Father (Romans 5). Won't you repent (turn away from your selfish and sinful living) and turn to His glorious grace found at the expense of His only Son? I pray you will find both an Eden (place of pleasure) and Chara (abounding joy) in the fellowship of our Father in glory.

Psalm 8, ESV translation
1 O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
2 Out of the mouth of babies and infants,
you have established strength because of your foes,
to still the enemy and the avenger.

3 When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
4 what is man that you are mindful of him,
and the son of man that you care for him?

5 Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
6 You have given him dominion over the works of your hands;
you have put all things under his feet,
7 all sheep and oxen,
and also the beasts of the field,
8 the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea,
whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

9 O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Soli Deo Gloria!
Dave

Anticipation like Christmas Eve

2010-02-05T07:02:00.001-08:00

I feel like it's the night before Christmas and I'm still in elementary school. I remember the feelings of excitement, the joy of the unknown, and the anticipation of receiving in the day to come. That's how I feel these days in my home as Brooke and I wait for Eden to come. It's just a matter of days until that sweet girl will be in our home. I have the same feelings like I did on Christmas Eve,...but multiplied by an infinite amount. What a joyful privilege and gift the Lord has given us already in preparing to raise a child to taste and see that He alone is good. (Psalm 34) So many unknowns...so many questions...and so many hopes that my Eden will be born and saved by my merciful Lord (Ephesians 1:4, 2:1-5)

During this time of waiting, I've learned a sweet lesson in commentaries. In case you aren't familiar with this word, please permit me to give you my simple definition. A commentary on anything is some one's view or understanding of the text or scenario. In a Biblical sense, commentaries are written by pastors and theologians (should be the same...) in their attempt to teach what they see in the Scriptures. These days, I've put away commentaries and simply read the words from my Lord. He has provided me His perfect and brilliant commentary on Psalm 139 with my days of waiting for Eden. Oh how the words show the wonders of my Lord! He creates out of His Word. He reveals out of His glory. He saves out of His grace. The fact that you can read these words today should reveal to you His commentary 0f Psalm 139. Read it.

I can't wait to share with you the news of my Eden when she comes. Please continue to pray for Brooke as she delivers. Pray for me as I continue to follow the Holy Spirit in leading and serving my wonderful family.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Psalm 139 (from ESV translation)

Lord, you have searched me and known me!
2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.

7 Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
9 If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 even there your hand shall lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,”
12 even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you.

13 For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.a
Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.

17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 If I would count them, they are more than the sand.
I awake, and I am still with you.

19 Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God!
O men of blood, depart from me!
20 They speak against you with malicious intent;
your enemies take your name in vain!b
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?
22 I hate them with complete hatred;
I count them my enemies.

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!c
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!

Worlds Apart

2010-01-29T09:41:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about the idea that you are living on this side of glory? One day, as our hearts stop their rhythm, we will join our Father on His side of glory...that is; if we are in Christ. I'm amazed by this thought. Every day, I'm walking not just on the earth, but on the other side of glory from my Father. It's almost like I'm away from my future home. I'm a traveler, a foreigner, so to speak, in a land that is not mine. It reminds me of the feeling I have when I travel overseas. The sights, the people, the days are such a treasure to me. I don't really spend time complaining...because I'm drawn to a privilege of seeing a place that I know I'll only spend a small amount of time on. When I board the plane to travel home, I know I will have a welcome awaiting me. My favorite part of returning home is when the customs officer looks at me and says, "Welcome home."

Look at this amazing verse with me. "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." Philippians 3:20. What an incredible truth! When I'm away from the States, I tend to have an attitude of joy and peace because I know that soon I will be returning to my home...the place I'm FAMILIAR with. This theological truth has challenged much of my thought process in the past few weeks. Please permit me to share with you in points to what's on my mind. I ask in advance for your patience in my rambling.

1. Paul writes to the church at Philippi with a challenge to remain true in the faith, to avoid false teachings, to count all things as loss in comparison to Christ, to be like minded, and to deny the desires of the flesh. When we get to this verse, the command leaps off the page at us...to see our citizenship, our place, our position, and our future home is in glory with our Lord.

2. Why do we live without this excitement? Why do people put all of their drama on their facebook statues to get attention...or live without joy? Why do we pour out selfish appeals for attention instead of pointing to the One that daily appeals for the souls of the lost? Why do we treat this place as our permanent misery instead of our temporary joy before our departure? In such a "me-centered" culture...and church, it doesn't surprise me that many hold onto their current position without any thought to the future joy that awaits.

3. Why do we act without hope? Why do we take any obstacle and allow that to point attention t ourselves instead of the hope that our Lord is in control? I wish I could go back in my life and take the struggles...and point them more to the Savior. Since I am truly waiting for His return or His final rescue in my life...it would make sense that I would point my obstacles to His Home...

4. Why do we step without purpose? Just like our vacation times...I've wanted to take every step toward making the most of the days. For example, I wanted to speak to new folks, visit new sights, and soak in more air. Since our home is in glory, we should take our steps with purpose...not in vanity, but in full obedience to the Great Commission.

5. Why do we speak without happiness? If we have a home waiting for us, then it would seem that our words each day should be centered on the anticipation of returning home. It should mean that our words should invite others to join us. Our words should be centered on returning home...to the point that our faith is indeed REAL to others.

6. Why do we neglect the Savior? It is only in Christ that we have a future home. He is our treasure. He is our sole delight. He welcomes us to His Father's glory. He gives us the greeting of, "welcome home." We should live in such a way that we look forward to His glorious appearing.

I want to close with a song by Jars of Clay that has really blessed my soul this week. This is an old song, but a treasured song of mine. Enjoy.

I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
and wipe away the crimson stains
"dull the nails that still remain"
More and more I need you now,
I owe you more each passing hour
the battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago
So steal my heart and take the pain
and wash the feet and cleanse my pride
take the selfish, take the weak,
and all the things I cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
the sin-soaked heart and make it yours
take my world all apart
take it now, take it now
and serve the ones that I despise
speak the words I can't deny
watch the world I used to love
fall to dust and thrown away

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Led by the Lord...

2010-01-13T13:31:00.001-08:00

On Monday evening this week, I began the process of my normal iPod shuffle uploading. It's been such a joy to listen to sermons while exercising at the gym. I successfully loaded two sermons onto the shuffle...along with 11 songs from the new Leeland album. After the loading was complete, I walked downstairs and taught the evening basement Bible Study. So far, all went according to my expectations.

The study was glorious and after praying with Brooke, I headed to the gym. As I walked inside the gym, I quickly put the headphones into my ears to listen to Francis Chan...Only to find that that the shuffle only had the Leeland songs! I probably skipped the tracks about 40 times until I gave up. Frustrated, I sat down on the bike and began the boring process of riding for 30 minutes while staring at TV shows that had nothing but teenage girl appeal. (I can't stand shows that have anything to do with the drama that I see for free on facebook.) I was mad. No sermons...and 30 minutes of nothing but riding and watching.

Doug walked over to me as his friends left the gym. Doug is a guy about my age that works out about the same time that I do each evening. He and his wife have a son that is about two years old. Doug carries with him a strong Jersey accent with Brazilian roots. A great guy. As Doug walked over to my area of workout (well, it was me and a bunch of older ladies...), he began to talk with me about...life. After a few minutes of casual talking, the door was opened for me to share with him of the Gospel. What a joy it was to talk for about 25 minutes (and what a tiring time as well) with Doug of the glories of my Savior. Doug and his family are really seeking the Lord right now and want to get plugged into a church. I pray I will see him again when I work out...and at church as I worship with my family. Please pray for Doug.

I left the gym and was thinking back to my iPod dilemma. If I had a sermon on that night...I probably would've given Doug just a minute of talk and then went back to the sermon listening. I truly believe the Lord took the sermon off my iPod so I could actually live out a sermon by talking about Jesus to my friend in the gym. I'm truly grateful that I had no sermon to listen to that evening. I'm truly grateful that I was led by the Lord to speak of the only good news that I know. The tomb is empty, the Savior is alive, and the atonement for my sins has been paid for. What a Savior.

The next day, I turned my iPod in the car as I was heading to teach at a high school. I wanted to listen to Leeland that morning. To my surprise, Francis Chan came on. Same iPod, no change, different day...glorious Savior.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

There's just something about that Name

2010-01-07T08:15:00.000-08:00

Last night was a deep joy in my soul. Worshipping my immortal Savior with my students is a treasure that I hold dearly. It amazes me how teenagers can gather together on a Wednesday night, to read an old book and sing songs of worship. What amazes me even more is the excitement many of them have in the process of worshipping their Savior. I don't see much of a "Mom forced me to be here" attitude in the room. I see passionate teenagers that love their Savior King. There's just something about the name of Jesus that draws attention.

Last night, I preached on the humanity and divinity of Jesus. We covered Luke 2:22-52. It was a large text to cover in just 40 minutes. With a weak voice and trembling knees, I felt the joy of the Mighty Spirit covering my lips to speak of the glory of my Lord. In true and genuine fashion, the students joined me with great concentration. Their joy and excitement draws me to WANT to preach...even with a suffering voice. There's just something about the name of Jesus that draws worshipful concentration.

After our service, Brooke and I joined the students at Taco Bell. I noticed a group of boys in the corner of the restaurant that were acting very antagonistic toward our group. I've seen these boys before in school as well as a few of them around my subdivision. I knew they were going to be bitter towards us in the restaurant from the time we were ordering our food in line. One of the guys was rude to Brooke...which caused me to say something to him. (I lose some of my preacher traits when it comes to protecting my sweet bride.) When the guys left the restaurant, they yelled to us, "We love Satan." It broke my heart. Brooke and I got into our car and talked about it on the way home. We both agreed that it was hard because they thought they were offending us. They didn't. They were pledging allegiance to the living adversary of the Most High. We weren't upset, we were hurt. If those boys don't repent and trust in the Living Savior, they will perish with the demon they jokingly claimed to love. Several thoughts came to my mind this morning about those guys as well as many I meet on a week to week basis. Please allow me to share some with you.

1. Making fun of Christians by claiming love for Satan contradicts the effort of opposition. For example, if one claims to love Satan, they must claim to have a belief in Jesus. Their idea of Satan comes from their understanding of Scripture (may be little, but still an understanding). If one believes in a figure known as Satan, they must believe in the figure of Jesus. So, to state a love for Him must mean they have rejected a Savior they know to exist. That is why the comment last night made me sad. Why be so foolish?

2. To love and embrace Christ is the purpose of worship. Students gathered last night in order to lavish their affections upon the Savior that shed His blood for their sins. When we pledge allegiance and faith in Christ, we receive the eternal riches of God's mercy and presence. We receive protection from His justice as well as adoption into His family (Ephesians 1:7, John 1:12).

3. Claiming love for God's adversary means you are willing to take the justice of God. This means you will join the demon you claim to love (or even in kidding...claim to love) in his punishment thru the justice of God (read Jude 1:6 and 2 Peter 2:4).

4. Claiming love for God's Son means you are willing to receive God's pardon for your sins. Instead of receiving His just wrath, you are receiving His love. (Romans 1-8, 1 John).

There's just something about the name of Jesus that draws me to worship. There's something about the name of Jesus that draws ridicule and bitterness. His Name is powerful and all together lovely (Psalm 8). One day, all the jokes and ridicules will be swept away with a blink of the eye according to Philippians 2:10-11. One day, we will see why His Name draws so much attention on this earth...It is the Name above all Names (Ephesians 1:21, Philippians 2:9).

There's just something about the Name of Jesus that strengthens my weak voice today. I love my Savior. I pray if you are reading this, you will join me in the chorus of worship. If you want more to chew on with His name, read Colossians 1.

An old song I used to sing with my family comes to mind with this post. I want to close out with offering them to you. Enjoy your Savior today.

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
There's just something about that name
Master, Savior, Jesus
Like the fragrance after the rain
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Let all heaven and earth proclaim
Kings and kingdoms shall all pass away
But there's something about that name.

Just some thoughts. Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Celebrating His Greatness

2009-12-18T08:27:00.000-08:00

I will exalt you, my God the King;
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
2Every day I will praise you
and extol your name for ever and ever.
3Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
4One generation will commend your works to another;
they will tell of your mighty acts.
5They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.b
6They will tell of the power of your awesome works,
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
7They will celebrate your abundant goodness
and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
8The Lord is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
9The Lord is good to all;
he has compassion on all he has made.
10All you have made will praise you, O Lord;
your saints will extol you.
11They will tell of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might,
12so that all men may know of your mighty acts
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
The Lord is faithful to all his promises
and loving toward all he has made.c
14The Lord upholds all those who fall
and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food at the proper time.
16You open your hand
and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17The Lord is righteous in all his ways
and loving toward all he has made.
18The Lord is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
19He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cry and saves them.
20The Lord watches over all who love him,
but all the wicked he will destroy.
21My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord.
Let every creature praise his holy name
for ever and ever.

Psalm 145

We are approaching the college football bowl games. This is the time of year in which many fans will either celebrate the greatness over their team or the upset of loss. Stadiums will be packed to the max of fans that are chanting songs of praise for athletes that they probably will never meet. Much money will be spent over the next few weeks for the purpose of…celebrating a game. As I spent time today reading over Psalm 145, I was drawn to a song of celebration. Celebrating the greatness of God was central to David. Take just a few minutes and read all 21 verses of Psalm 145.

Celebrating the greatness of God is a glorious task that we are privileged to have. David begins this Psalm with a powerful proclamation of God as His King. The Psalm moves to daily celebration (v.2), unsearchable celebration (v.3), multi generational celebration (v.4), and majestic celebration (v.5-7). From these verses, we go into a description of the Lord’s character. Friend, He is truly gracious and merciful! The fact that we even have a voice to celebrate Him (v.21), is truly amazing to me.

He satisfies (v.19), He upholds (v.14), He is infinitely kind (v.17), and He is all loving (v.20). I could go on with a list of His greatness based on this psalm alone! So, why would any of us truly want to celebrate the greatness of others? Why would we worship teams, bands, movies, etc.? How can they truly measure up to the greatness of God displayed in Psalm 145? Today, celebrate His greatness. Live in His greatness. Enjoy His greatness.

Who do you have?

2009-12-16T08:03:00.000-08:00

I remember as a child wanting several different things for Christmas. Some of those things were mixed with other things that are now sitting in my garage. Some of those things were cherished gifts that still remain on my heart. Please permit me to share one with you today.

In the 6th grade, Adidas soccer company made a line of jackets that several of my friends had. I remember for almost 3 weeks, coming to my parents and begging, "I HAVE to have this jacket!" Of course, I didn't have to own that jacket. Of course, it was materialistic. Of course, I was a typical, annoying boy that was begging for something that was self-centered. Of course, by grace, I look back now as an adult and laugh over the way I acted. I laugh, but I also weep, because I see that same attitude in some of my students in my church.

Christmas morning arrived. I woke up and ripped into my presents like a high tide smashing a surfer. I came to the last gift...and behold, it was the Adidas jacket! For the next few weeks, I wore that jacket everywhere! I would wear that jacket even if I didn't have to wear it! I wanted my friends to see my new prize. I wanted my family to see the true joy I thought I had in the jacket. After a few months when the momentary feeling went away, that jacket ended up in a closet and later given away. Why was it so important to me at that time?

What do you have? Who do you have? What truly is the desire of your heart? Will it pass away or be swept away like the foolish man who built his foundation on sand? (Matthew 7:24-27). Will it be like the fool who stores up for himself treasures on earth that are destroyed by moths and thieves? (Matthew 6:19-20). This morning, this rich verse was the meditation on my soul. I'd like to share it with you:

Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides You. - Psalm 73:25

I pray you will wake up each day with this verse on your heart. I pray you won't get wrapped into an emotional frenzy of clinging to stuff that eventually fades away. I can promise you that I'm living testimony that so much of the junk that I wanted to HAVE in my life truly never satisfied. I am also a living testimony that the Living, Sovereign, Lord of this World completely satisfies! His wrath for your sin and mine was satisfied on the cross of His only Son. His mercy is satisfied when any sinner repents and turns to Jesus Christ. His joy is satisfied when we cling to Him and find Him to be our only true treasure. His glory is satisfied when we as His church shine His brilliant light to a lost and dark world.

What do you have? Who do you have? May this short verse strike a chord of a daylong worship service in your heart today.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Majesty of His Word

2009-12-14T12:49:00.000-08:00

Last night, after I left the gym, I caught the last few minutes of a great sermon on Isaiah 66. This morning, as I awakened to pains in my body that probably shouldn't be there...I was brought to worship with one single verse. Take a minute with me and allow these words to soak into your heart.

"All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the Lord. But this is the one to whom I will look; he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word." - Isaiah 66:2, ESV.

WOW. This is the only expression I have right now to offer to you! What a powerful display of God's concern and esteem over His children. Let's take just a moment today and break down some of these truths.

1. Humility. This is a tough word to speak. In Isaiah 66:2, as well as other passages of Scripture, we can see a clear blueprint that the Lord esteems humble followers. Our culture offers us self-centered pills to swallow. For example, we want the best education with the best salary for the best house in order to have the best circle of influence. We want our students to be the ones noticed in all the musicals and plays. We want our decisions to be considered in the church as well as the H.O.A. meetings. Friend, I've swallowed this pill with you! In fact, I see this pill around me almost daily! Why is it that humility is something we don't focus much on in the life of the church? Why is it that we can't examine passages such as James 1:27 (a passage I preached at a funeral service this past Sunday) or Philippians 2:5-11 (a passage the focuses on the humility of our Savior)? Why is it that we spend over $800 on Christmas day (not including all the presents and travel arrangements, according to Francis Chan), and yet over 1 billion of our population lives on under $2 a day? Friend, we all must repent of any self centeredness and focus on humble submission to the infinite treasure we have found in our Savior (Matthew 13:44).

2. Contrite in Spirit. What on earth does this mean? The idea behind the original Hebrew is a Spirit or heart that has been smitten. What causes us to be smitten? What captivates and captures our Spirit? What draws us to surrender daily? Do we give our hearts over to idolatry? College Bowl games, latest concerts, new books, athlete scandals, etc. What attacks our attention? Our Lord desires and esteems believers that are contrite in Spirit...in His Spirit. May we find our hearts contrite; in complete awe of His majesty and splendor!

3. Trembles at His Word. WOW. Does His Word really cause us to tremble? Do we take the same fear and amazement in our lives like the disciples had when they witnessed Jesus calm the storm simply by His Word? (Mark 4:35-41). Do we find joy in His Word like the writer of Psalm 119? Do we wait with great anticipation to read His Word and hear His voice daily? What causes us to tremble? I sometimes get nervous when I'm around "celebrities." I start to tremble when I have the quick second to speak to them. It's ridiculous. Why can't I tremble even MORE when I open up and read His Word? God esteems those that have a reverent fear and love for His Word. You can simply read Psalm 119:9-11 to get a glimpse of that. His Word draws the lost to salvation and saints to refreshment. His Word sets the captives free. His Word brings families together and binds marriages under His covenantal love. His Word heals broken churches and broken down ministers. May His Word cause us all to tremble...to sweet worship.

May we find majesty in His Word together; beginning today. Thank for you taking just a few minutes and reading with me. I pray you will find the majesty of His Word today!

Soli Deo Gloria!

What really is joy?

2009-12-09T09:10:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't heard yet, my daughter's middle name will be Chara, which from the Greek New Testament translates, "joy." Lately, I've been thinking about what this word really means. When someone says, "I have joy," what does that mean? Do they have momentary happiness because their cards are all lined up? Do they have emotional celebration because they are loved, their kids are well behaved, or they've had success in their jobs? What does it really mean to have joy?

A great resource that I recommend you to read is found in a little book called, In Our Joy by John Piper. This small book will only take you a few hours to read. I'd recommend visiting www.desiringgod.org and order a few copies. They run only $1 each. In this small book, Piper offers beautiful Scriptures to remind us of our joy that we have in Christ. One verse that has been saturated on my heart is found in Matthew 13:44. In this verse, directly after the beautiful passage on the Parable of the Sower, Jesus offers us a taste of what true joy is. A man finds a treasure hidden in a field...leaves it there, sells all he has and buys the field! I'm sure many that saw the field were confused and perplexed to why he would make such a radical move. Who would really sell all they have and buy a field that seems to have nothing visibly appealing? Who would rejoice in such a radical decision? My friend, I would submit to you today that this man had true joy.

We lose the beauty and joy in the Gospel in church today. So often, I hear words that offer people to just trust in Jesus and walk forward. I hear words that don't fully articulate the grandeur of our Savior! True joy is found when you and I give up our selfish treasures, our selfish motives, our plans, our expectations, our goals; and we humbly sell them and receive the free purchase of Christ, our Redeemer. His blood on the cross and His glorious resurrection from the grave is our source of true joy.

There is a house down the road from me that has several Ford mustangs. It seems that everyday when I drive by the home, I see a man outside working and admiring his cars. Their garage is full of expensive models as well as a few outside parked in their driveway. I don't know anything about this man because he doesn't even live on my street. However, when I see him outside cleaning those cars, I wonder where his treasure lies. When he dies one day, who will receive those cars? Will those cars cause fights among the family? Will those cars be auctioned off in order to pay for potential debt or other issues? Was it really worth the time and effort to spend countless hours on them?

Jesus made it very clear to us about our joy when he spoke powerful words in Matthew 6:19-24. I'd encourage you to take some time today and read that passage. It basically teaches us that treasures in this world will be destroyed one day. However, our treasure, like the treasure in the field that the man rejoiced over, will never be destroyed. Friend, our treasure and our joy is in Christ. He is the only One that truly satisfies, truly saves, and truly gives our souls eternal happiness. You can simply read all of Matthew 5 to get that!

My sweet daughter is already a joy to me. I can't wait to meet her. I pray her middle name will magnify the eternal joy that I hope she will share with me in the glorious Savior.

Hard to believe I get paid for this...

2009-12-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

Us at the Operation Christmas Child Processing Center near Atlanta, GA

I just got back an hour ago from working in one of the Operation Christmas Child processing centers in Atlanta. Joining me this evening was 14 students. From 6-10pm, I was blessed to enjoy both fellowship and missions with teenagers that stole my heart. We worked side by side, inspecting shoe boxes that were donated, and boxing them up to be shipped to India and Ukraine. I'm tired, but overjoyed with the evening.

Brooke and Eden (my sweet girl that hasn't been born yet...) are in Washington D.C. tonight. The evening worked out so well for me. Brooke left for a short trip with Emory University while I got to take students over to Suwanee, GA for mission work. I can't believe I get paid for this.

I don't enjoy sitting in my office and just doing 8am-5pm hour shifts. There are days in which sitting in my office drives me crazy (not to mention my rear end begins to hurt)! Sometimes, I just want to get out and do what Jesus called me to do that doesn't require a computer. Tonight, my Savior delivered a glorious opportunity to do an evening outreach with my students. Taking them home tonight after we worked in the warehouse, I was overwhelmed with love and joy in my ministry. I've been blessed to have 4 years at my church in the student ministry. Hearing my students talk behind me as I drove home in the cold rain gave my joy such beautiful warmth in the absence of my family. Again, I find it hard to believe that I get paid for this.

I love my Savior. I love my students. I love my job. I pray each day will be for the glory of my Risen King. If days require me to work just 8pm-5pm in the office, may it be for His glory. If days allow me to leave campus and serve the community with my students, may it be for His glory. If days require me to sit in meetings and work on administrative responsibilities, may it be for His glory. May all of what the Soverign Lord leads me to do...may it be for His glory.

What a glorious night. What a glorious Savior King. I can't believe I get paid for this.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Church folks

2009-11-23T06:58:00.001-08:00

I had a slow start to this morning. My computer was slow to turn on in my office which led to an impatient walk downstairs to get more coffee in the church office. I think it's funny how the Lord places us and works in us for His sovereign glory at times that is the most unexpected. I think it's glorious how a slow computer, slow morning, and slow youth minister can experience the joy of lessons taught without a book being opened.

Church folks are interesting. I've met many types of people in my years of attending and working on staff at the church. Some folks come to get an emotional fill for the week. This fill can serve like a "pick me up" to get them through the next difficult work week. Some folks come to receive joy in serving or teaching. Some folks come to hurt and gossip because of unrepentant sin that holds their souls in prison. Some folks come to love and encourage one another. Some folks come because they are absolutely amazed by Jesus. Church folks come in various types and forms. This morning, I want to submit to you two church folks that I met in my short time of coffee refilling and impatient walking.

The first church folk example came with a guy that attends faithfully each week. In the short 5 minutes of talking, he continued to reveal to me his sin. This man struggles with absolute authority of Scripture, submission to leadership, and the joy of everlasting grace in Christ alone. This man is very political, bitter, and stubborn in areas that discourage others. In just a few minutes of talking, he reminded me that he doesn't' agree with me in some areas of my leading and preaching...which connects his reasoning to why he wasn't a leader in the military. I see pride and unrepentant sin in his life. I hurt for this man. There are church folks like this man. If you see them, love them. Speak the words of Christ to them. Don't give up on them.

The second church folk example came from one of my heroes. His name is Gene. This saint is now in his upper 80's. He has walked faithfully in the joy of the Lord for several decades. His body is breaking down. Each day, he carries pain and sickness that I can't even imagine. However, his joy in Christ is contagious. A few years ago, in my selfishness, I had a stressful day with juggling ministry and seminary. In my office, I sat; a 25 year old man that allowed carnality to interfere with the joy of the morning. Gene walked in, said a few words of encouragement to me, and gave me the reminder of Christ's everlasting joy that no class could ever teach. Today, directly after the prideful talk of the first church folk man, Gene looked me in the eyes and told me he loved me. HE HAS UNSPEAKABLE JOY IN CHRIST. He suffers, He walks, and He lives for the glory of His Savior. He's been faithful to one woman his whole marriage. He will have 25 family members gathered around him on Thursday to celebrate Thanksgiving. He is my hero. Every church needs folks like Gene.

I'm not impressed with men that know politics, guns, football stats, fishing stories, etc. I'm not impressed with men that can climb the corporate ladder. I'm not impressed with men that can tell me how to do my job better. I'm not impressed with men that womanize. I'm not impressed with men that can accomplish more earthly gain than me. I'm impressed with men like Gene Curtis who daily strips himself of himself and rejoices in the overflow of Christ's eternal joy.

I love church folks. They all are different. However, we must continue to find common ground and common joy in the everlasting joy of our Risen Savior.

I'm sure glad my computer was slow today and I walked downstairs.

Soli Deo Gloria!

How firm a foundation

2009-11-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
so the Lord surrounds his people
both now and forevermore.
The scepter of the wicked will not remain
over the land allotted to the righteous,
for then the righteous might use
their hands to do evil.
Do good, O Lord, to those who are good,
to those who are upright in heart.
But those who turn to crooked ways
the Lord will banish with the evildoers.
Peace be upon Israel

I find it glorious that our Lord promises us a firm foundation as a result of our trust in Him. He gives us that great assurance in Psalm 125. Take a few minutes and read Psalm 125 a few times. Since it is only 5 verses long, it shouldn't take too much time. My desire today is for His Word to be immersed in your soul. After you've read this text a few times, I invite you continue with me as we examine it in our lives.

Mt. Zion in verse 1 is described as a foundation that, "cannot be shaken." The writer even goes to the great length to tell us that this foundation endures forever. If we are given that promise, why would we place our trust in the things of this world or in fallen man? I've placed my trust over the years in friendships that betrayed me. I've placed my trust in situations and seasons that changed. I've placed my trust in goals that failed. However, looking at this verse, I'm drawn to the beauty of trusting in the Lord. The result of that trust is a firm foundation that cannot be shaken...and endures forever! Isn't that glorious?! The writer goes on to explain that the Lord surrounds us with His glory like the mountains surround Jerusalem (V.2). The attacks from the adversary are only temporary (V.3), and will experience the wrath from the Mighty One (V.5). We are to simply trust in His provision and care. Our God is glorious. He sent His Son to give us a REASON to trust in Him...for the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus has established in us all the eternal, enduring, perfect, and invincible foundation of God.

Friend, trust in Him today. Don't get sucked into the trap of placing your trust in the things of this world that will eventually fade away (Isaiah 55). I want to close this day by quoting one of my favorite hymns. I invite you to sing it with me if you know the melody. Enjoy the enduring foundation of God's surrounding.

How Firm a Foundation, written in 1787 by John Keith.

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in His excellent word!
What more can He say than to you He hath said—
To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?

“Fear not, I am with thee, oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by My gracious, omnipotent hand.

“When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not overflow;
For I will be with thee thy trouble to bless,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not harm thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.

“The soul that on Jesus doth lean for repose,
I will not, I will not, desert to his foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, no never forsake

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Over Chara....ed

2009-11-16T15:12:00.000-08:00

I took great liberty in the past weekend's theme with this blog title. Our theme was, "chara" which in the Greek New Testament translates, "joy." I was overjoyed this weekend...so I guess that makes it over chara...ed. Make sense?

2009 Disciple Now weekend was absolutely wonderful. I'm so blessed and "overjoyed" by the leadership, support, and encouragement that countless adults gave. I'm refreshed by the hard work my student ministry staff put into all the preparation. You really need to check out Channing's blog (Solus Christus on blogger) for his take on it. I loved the fellowship. I loved the discipleship. My B.F.F. from Louisiana preached the Word, my friends in staff leadership positions taught the Word, and my students gave me sweet joy in their absorption of the Word. I saw unspeakable joy in their souls. I saw the name of Christ lifted up on stage by all that came. James Tealy, our musical worship leader brought joy to music, which joyfully led us to the throne room. Steve Fee truly inspired many to see the love of Christ made alive in song. I can go on....

Where is your joy? Where is your chara? This weekend, my joy was complete (Philippians 2), in seeing students and adults in great attention to the only One that is worthy of attention. Christ was glorified this weekend. Christ was made known. Thru suffering, sacrifice, serving, and study; students were taught the elements of joy in following Christ. Joy is made complete at the foot of the cross. Joy is made available thru the crown of the King. Joy is our diving board to a bottomless pool of endless worship of the Almighty.

I pray this weekend wasn't just a youth event. I pray this weekend wasn't just an opportunity for students to hang out with each other. I pray this past weekend wasn't just a time of emotional revival. I pray this weekend was a weekend of joy-filled, Word-applied, love-embraced, heart-intended time of contemplating the cross, rejoicing in the empty tomb, and seeing Christ for who He is...the joyful Savior of the World.

I'm over Chara...ed today. What a great weekend.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Shaking behind the sacred wooden desk

2009-11-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, my gracious Lord gave me the privilege to preach His Word to my church for 2 of the 3 services. The text was 1 John 2:15-17. The focus was on having an unrivaled love for the Father. This love involves denying a love for the world. It was a tough sermon. I've preached about 10 times in the past 4 years at my church. In those times, I approached the pulpit with great joy and excitement to preach. I didn't have that same approach this past Sunday. I was shaking behind the sacred wooden desk.

Where did the shakes come from? The night before I preached, Brooke and I enjoyed a dinner date at Longhorn steakhouse (praise the Lord for meat...). While we were eating, the thought of my task for Sunday came to my mind. The Lord entrusted me to handle His Word, preach His Word, and lead His bride in His Word for that Sunday. This tremendous task belongs to the pastor. Our pastor was out of country that Sunday. The task for that day was mine. It was tough. Please permit me to explain why the task of preaching is harder every time I do it.

In preaching, the preacher represents God to the people. The way he represents is found in accurately handling and declaring the full council of God's Word. The souls of those that are gathered are trusting in the preacher for the message. James 3:1 teaches us that there will be a day of accountability for the messages we preach. If preachers were to think of that tremendous task and responsibility...how can they not be nervous?!! If you were at my church, you may have noticed my shaking. The more I thought about the task ahead, the more frightened I became. I know, God's Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11). However, this past Sunday was a beautiful point of my ministry that the sovereign and gracious Lord of this world reminded me of the important task that I was given. I would argue that the sermon is the most valuable set of time for the entire week.

I fear for pastors across this world that neglect His Word and preach their own ideas.

I don't know why God wanted me to preach. If you were to ask me, I can't really preach all that well. All I know is the joy of trusting the Lord in proclaiming His Word. Fear and humility is not fun. Fear leads me to the bathroom wanting to throw up (T.M.I., I know). However, fear this past Sunday gave me a sweet heart of worship and joy for my Lord. He chose a sinner such as me to represent His Word to His church. Talk about amazing grace!

I pray all preachers will join me in fear and reverence of the sacred wooden desk. May pulpits across the world be saturated with the Spirit and handled by God-fearing men that desire for souls to be saved by the matchless grace of our Father in Heaven.

Don't worry...Pastor Aaron will be back to preach! Pray for him daily. Pray for his preaching ministry and his tremendous task that he has before him every Sunday. That is the best way you can support and love your pastor!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Humble Anyone?

2009-11-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

Psalm 115

1Not to us, O Lord, not to us

but to your name be the glory,

because of your love and faithfulness.

2Why do the nations say,

“Where is their God?”

3Our God is in heaven;

he does whatever pleases him.

4But their idols are silver and gold,

made by the hands of men.

5They have mouths, but cannot speak,

eyes, but they cannot see;

6they have ears, but cannot hear,

noses, but they cannot smell;

7they have hands, but cannot feel,

feet, but they cannot walk;

nor can they utter a sound with their throats.

8Those who make them will be like them,

and so will all who trust in them.

9O house of Israel, trust in the Lord—

he is their help and shield.

10O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord—

he is their help and shield.

11You who fear him, trust in the Lord—

he is their help and shield.

12The Lord remembers us and will bless us:

He will bless the house of Israel,

he will bless the house of Aaron,

13he will bless those who fear the Lord—

small and great alike.

14May the Lord make you increase,

both you and your children.

15May you be blessed by the Lord,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

16The highest heavens belong to the Lord,

but the earth he has given to man.

17It is not the dead who praise the Lord,

those who go down to silence;

18it is we who extol the Lord,

both now and forevermore.

Praise the Lord.

I love this Psalm. When I read this text, I’m drawn to the reality of my sinfulness and God’s glory. I’m reminded that God is on His throne in perfect glory. I’m reminded that the depravity of man will lead to idolatry, and blinded pursuit of God. Friend, we must humble rejoice that God has pursued us with an everlasting love and joy. The Word tells us that the love and joy of God has been demonstrated on the cross of Jesus (Romans 5:8).

With a Biblical understanding of the Gospel, we can boast in Psalm 115:1. In our walk, our talk, our singing, our leading, our practicing, our serving, and our witnessing; we must submit to the reality that all we do is not for our glory. All we do is for His glory. He is the One that makes the dead come to life. He is the One that brings the lost to salvation. He is the One that has faithfully given us the divine command to preach and proclaim His heavenly kingdom on the earth.

We must strive for humility daily. My favorite definition of humility is simply our understanding of our sinful nature and our joy to His perfect nature. I believe that living daily with this understanding will draw us naturally to seek His fame (v.1), His honor (v.13), His blessing (v.15), and His eternal praise (v.18). Let us draw together with great humility to His Name, not our own.

From one who strives for the glory of His name and not my own.

Soli Deo Gloria!

All I did was a game

2009-11-05T07:01:00.000-08:00

Last night at OIKOS (our High School Wednesday night worship service), I led a game. I've been in student ministry for 8 years now. I've accomplished a seminary degree, ordination, and tons of joyful ministry experience...but last night; I led a game. It was comical and joyful at the same time. Years of preparation and leadership led to...a 10 minute game. Would you like to know why? The sweet aroma of Christ in student leaders placed a service around His all satisfying glory.

For the past two months, I've allowed different high school students preach the Word at OIKOS. Last night, one of our seniors preached a fantastic message from Colossians 3:1-17; on going from the old self to new self. The sermon was a brilliant exposition and joyful application of the text. The preacher was a young man who has found all satisfaction in Christ alone. This same young man was one of our greatest challenges four years ago. It's amazing to see how the Spirit has moved in his life in the past 4 years. His old self on many nights, led me to want to put my hands around his neck! His new self leads me to put my arms around him in a brotherhood embrace. The month before, we had another senior in high school preach a message centered on the glory of our eternal citizenship in glory. Again, a fantastic sermon...by a guy who has never stepped into a seminary classroom. These two months...and several more to come (we'll see at least 4-5 more young preachers preach), have led me to such unspeakable joy. Last night, all I did was a game.

The music...brilliant songs of theology, was led by high school students as well. Again, all I did was a game. 5 songs pointing worshippers to the cross, the crown, and the resurrection. 5 songs led by students who are right now in class as I type these words. It was rich worship. The music wasn't "me-centered," but, "God-centered." No seminary. No ordination. Just joyful worshippers in love with their Savior.

I love my students. There are countless more that desire to proclaim the Excellencies of the One that has rescued them from their depravity. I love my students. There are countless more that faithfully declare His infinite love to their lost classmates each day. I love my students. I cherish the moments in which I sit back and allow them to minister to me. I am responsible for leading future husbands, wives, dads, moms, and leaders in the church. What an honor and tremendous task the gracious Lord has given me. Last night, the service was led in Spirit and Truth (John 4:24), by students. All I did was a game...

Why am I still at my church? Last night, I saw a service that drew my heart to joy and my assurance that this generation can lead. What joy I've received in the last 4 years at Summit.

Last night, all I did was a game. All my students did was lead in a service of boasting in the Gospel.

This verse comes to mind as I close: Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. - 1 Timothy 4:12, ESV.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Absent from the Bride

2009-11-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Do you wake up on Sunday mornings with an excitement to drive to a church campus and worship with other believers? Do you wake up with your heart racing, because you can't contain the anticipation to sing to Jesus? I'm afraid that many believers live without any excitement or anticipation to worship with the church body. As a youth minister, I hear several reasons for missing corporate worship. If I can be completely open with you, I'm tired of hearing them. Last week, I heard of some that stayed home just to get caught up with school work or rest. Some take a day off on Saturday to hang out with friends, only to rob God of His church worship gathering on Sunday. It's selfish living that needs to cease. Before you label me as a legalistic minister, please hear my heart on this.

Let me paint a picture for you today. Let's say that Brooke (my wife) and I set up a date for this upcoming Saturday. She is excited about meeting with me, and having my undivided attention. During the week, I spend time with friends, family, and even watch a few minutes of games on TV. The days fade quickly, and Saturday is almost near. On Friday night, I look at Brooke and unapologetically say, "We can’t' hang out tomorrow night, I'm sorry. I have to get caught up on sleeping and other tasks that I neglected, we'll try again maybe next week." First of all, she has every right to smack the selfishness out of me. Secondly, I hope you would! Smart husbands would not treat their brides in such a way. Why would we think this is different in the church? How could I clearly communicate love to my bride if I treat her in such a

Stop being selfish. Set your alarm to wake you up. Say no to friends if it means they will rob your time away from the Lord that created and saved your soul. Worship Him in the church body with greater excitement than any date you can go on or any movie that you will see. He is worthy to be praised (Psalm 19), and His eternal love endures forever (Psalm 136). I wonder, if we neglect worshipping Him with His bride...do we really love Him? If your god is college football, repent. If your god is your boyfriend or girlfriend, repent. If your god is your money, repent. If your god is your school accomplishments, repent. If your god is your friends, repent. Turn away from your excuses. Turn away from your pride. Turn away from the sins that nailed your Savior to the cross.

It doesn’t have to be on Sunday. I’m not so dogmatic to think that Sunday is the only day to worship. Friend, we can worship any day of the week. My point is simply to challenge you to see the joy and beauty of the church gathered to worship the bridegroom. If you are traveling and are away from your church body, join another body and continue the song that is eternal! I love worshiping with other churches when we are away on Sundays. My desire is to continue the devotion, continue the focus, and continue the everlasting joy of desiring God above the sins of this fallen world.

I'll say it again, I'm tired of hearing excuses. If we are the redeemed, we should wait everyday with great anticipation to sing of His eternal praise and glory. If we are the redeemed, we should protect our worship service gatherings from anything else. I'll stomp on one more foot if I need to today. I'm about to be a dad. Can I share something with you? I will not allow any organized sport or club take corporate worship time away from my daughter. I long for the day that I will gladly hold her hand as we approach the throne room, on our knees, in joyful celebration of our Savior. One day, all the things that distract us from worship will cease. When that day arrives, what will you be worshiping?

Love for His Glory

2009-10-29T10:53:00.001-07:00

Last night, in the middle school worship service, we discussed the laws in the Old Testament. I'm constantly amazed that Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), fulfilled the demands of the law (Galatians 3:13), for the Father's glory (John 17:1-4). I'm amazed that even though I'm constantly reminded of my nature to break His law (James 2:10), He gives me perfect grace to cover my failures (Ephesians 2:8-9, 2 Corinthians 5:17-21). In the words of the old hymn, "What wondrous love is this?" Last night, as I stared in the eyes of my middle school students, I was given a gentle reminder to why I'm a youth minister. I have a deep love for the Lord as well as the students. My heart leaped with joy as the three main passages of Scripture were revealed to me in the message. Deuteronomy 6:1-2, Galatians 3:24 and Matthew 22:36-40 were all preached to me in the process of preaching them to the students. If you are a youth minister reading this, please take just a moment and think about the joy you get to hold in your job. You get to love the Lord, and love the students He has given you. Sometimes I can't believe (not all the times), why do I get paid for this?! I'm glad last night; I got to live out the law of my Savior in Matthew 22:36-40. What a Savior.

This morning, the alarm went off, and my first thought was, "Man, It's too early to be awake on my off day." I have made a commitment to meet with 3 guys each week for discipleship. In the past year, my love and respect for these guys has grown tremendously. I have to confess, this morning, my heart wasn't ready at 6am to meet with one of them. However, I was drawn by what I preached on last night; my love for the Lord, and my love for students. Please don't applaud me. I was selfish when I woke up this morning. However, after an hour at Starbucks, discussing beautiful theology and praying together, I watched with great joy as one of my seniors drove to school; a living testimony and Gospel light to many. I can see him in church ministry real soon. I love my job.

After my meeting with one of my guys, I had to go to the dentist. Nobody likes visiting the dentist. Well, most that are normal feel that way, I guess. Anyways, my nerves took the best of me. (This part of the blog serves no point, other than to see if you are still reading.) After throwing up near my car (again, I was nervous), I was ready for my teeth to be cleaned. I felt bad for the new girl that was responsible for my teeth. Her first job out of college, and she was dealing with a guy with a serious gag reflex. After an hour, my teeth were cleaned and I was able to share the Gospel with her. Please pray for her today.

Ok, back to my original point. After leaving the dentist and grocery store, I got a call from...my mentor! He was ACROSS the street from the office! I was blown away. Here was the man that I served under for almost 2 years in Murray, KY; in Acworth, GA for a quick stop. Boyd Smith discipled me for a few years. I would argue that he still is. I love that man. We had a great lunch fellowship before he headed back to Murray.

My point? I love His glory. This morning, He allowed me to love and minister to a student that I love...only to be ministered to later by my youth ministry mentor. Our God is glorious. He is sovereign and active in His creation. He reigns supreme. His Gospel is glorious. His Son is the vine that gives us life (John 15). His Spirit gives us a voice in His presence (Romans 8:26). I'm so blessed that today, I was able to experience His love, and love for others.

Read Matthew 22:36-40 today. Do you love the Lord? Are you amazed by His blazing glory? Do you praise Him for saving you from His just wrath? Apart from the blood of His Son clothing you with mandatory perfection to enter His presence, you will face the penalty for breaking His law (Again, read James 2:10, Romans 3:23, 6:23, John 3:36). I pray you will experience the lavishing love from the God of this world that made the rhythm of your heartbeat. Love others today. Invest and sacrifice for others. Don't worship the god of yourself. Read Philippians 2, and follow suit.

It was so worth waking up at 6am. What a glorious day. I love His glory. I'm glad my teeth are clean and my stomach has food in it. I'm glad that I invested in a student, and then was the recipient of the investment of another. How was your day?

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

An Old Friend

2009-10-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday afternoon, I got out my French horn and played with my church orchestra. It was like being reacquainted with an old friend. During that hour of playing, my soul was refreshed. As a church staff member, my Sundays tend to be full of responsibilities and leadership. There are days in which my soul is in need of rest like David in Psalm 62:1. In God's infinite grace, He relieved a busy day with a sweet hour of revived friendship.

I started to play the French horn in the 6th grade. The first time my eyes took notice of the horn, I was drawn to it. I enjoyed all the curves and how it looked so different than all the other brass instruments. I started playing it in the 6th grade, and carried it in my heart for 11 years to follow. Yesterday, I picked it up and embraced the beauty of an instrument that gave me such musical comfort over the years.

Yesterday, I felt like the Psalmist in Psalm 150...praising God with the horn. Yesterday, the grace of my Sovereign Lord led me to pick up an old friend and continue years of praising Him with the melody of His instrument. I wonder if He had joy like I had? I wonder if He looked at me; an instrument of His symphony, playing for His infinite glory? The music was refreshing. The old friend was much needed.

The horn is sitting next to my office desk right now. I'm grateful for the gift I have, from the Father, in playing it. Like Jubal, the chosen originator of God's music (Genesis 4:21), I'm grateful that for an hour yesterday, my mind was on playing an instrument for the glory of my Lord.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

living Psalm 105

2009-10-22T12:14:00.001-07:00

Take just a moment and read Psalm 105. If you don't have a Bible near you, go to Biblegateway.com and use theirs. I'll wait.

Genuine worship and adoration toward God comes from the awareness of His historical faithfulness. One doesn't need to sit around and think of reasons to worship God if the Scriptures are studied. Sometimes we experience seasons of our lives that produce difficult obstacles that prevent our adoration of God. Friend, if that season consumes you today, open up to Psalm 105 and allow the words to refresh you to the perfect providence of our Maker. In this rich Psalm, the writer gives us a shout of praise toward the God that led the Israelites in their history. Trust me; their history was far from perfect. Difficult seasons consumed them as they do us. However, in moments like Psalm 105, we see a beautiful choir of remembrance assembled for the Holy God. They praise Him for His deliverance from captivity and for His daily provision.

Sin blinds adoration. We could easily be consumed with sin to the point that His rich history doesn't capture our attention anymore. This tendency leads many church goers to live as lukewarm followers. Jesus warned us about this complacency. It doesn't matter what season you are in, fall on your knees today, read Psalm 105 and remember that the days are His. He was faithful in the past...and He will be faithful in the future. One day, as Revelation 7:17 teaches us, every tear will be wiped away. One day, we will get to immerse ourselves in an eternal bond of joy such as the Psalm 105 folks had. Why not trust that He will remove the obstacles of our praise today so we can enjoy Psalm 105? Why not remember His faithfulness in the past. He gave you life today. Start there. He was faithful to give you the ability to read the words I'm typing. Start there. Praise Him for His faithfulness. Follow Him in faithfulness. Treasure His Son. Enjoy His Spirit.

-living Psalm 105 today.

Am I crazy for singing Christmas songs in October?

2009-10-21T07:04:00.001-07:00

It's October, and I'm singing Christmas songs in my office. Is that wrong? Why would some think that is weird or strange? For years, I placed Christmas music in a storage spot in my heart until December arrived. I never thought of the songs or even the premise of them until we sang them in church. Back in August, I was privileged to listen to a live T.V. taping of Chris Tomlin's Christmas album that has already arrived. During that evening, my soul was swept away with songs that celebrated the arrival of the promised Messiah. It was tough to go to bed that night, for it was 90 degrees...and I wanted Christmas. If you haven't purchased his new Christmas album, you need to. It is deeply worshipful and Christ-centered.

This morning, I arrived to my office, lit a candle, got a cup of coffee, and listened to the Christmas album. Song after song celebrated and worshiped the God of this world for His grace found in a manger. Several thoughts came to my mind as I was listening. Only one thought made sense. This thought, if you permit me, I'd like to share with you.

Thought: Could we incorporate Christmas music into our church worship gatherings?

Reason: Christmas music highlights (at least, Biblical Christmas music) the arrival of the Promised Savior. When we gather on Sunday mornings, we gather because of the celebration of the Lord's Day. The early church began worshipping on Sundays out of remembrance and joy for the empty tomb (read John 20 to get the whole scene). When we gather, we normally and sadly sing songs for ourselves...or for parts of God's character. When Easter arrives, we sing songs only focusing on the cross. I would submit to you the necessity to sing and boast in the cross every Sunday...not just during Easter season. On the same note, I would propose the idea that we should take the stance for Christmas music as well! If we celebrate ONLY His victory over death and resurrection...do we miss some joy in leaving out the arrival of God's faithfulness? He was born. HE ARRIVED. 400 years of a mysterious gap...and then BOOM, the Savior gloriously arrives in the world! However, to only sing of this foundational joy in 1 month of the year, we could lose the sweet aroma of God's faithfulness. If we are to savor the supreme worth of Christ as a church (This is the bedrock of John Piper's theology), then it would make sense to incorporate songs of His arrival WITH songs of His departure to glory.

Just something to think about today. I may be strange or crazy...but I'm going to sing Christmas songs today. HE ARRIVED. HALLELUJAH! Let's rejoice and sing of God's faithfulness together. I close with one of my favorite hymns of this glorious truth. Enjoy.

Hark the Herald Angels Sing - written by Charles Wesley

Hark the herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled"
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim:
"Christ is born in Bethlehem"
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

Christ by highest heav'n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin's womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris'n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

Preaching Renewal

2009-10-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

This morning, I finished Tony Merida's new book, Faithful Preaching. If you have a passion to preach or hear good preaching, you need to read it. After reading the last chapter on great preachers from the past, it led me to think about our current state of preaching. Do you attend a church that has great preaching? What defines great preaching? Perhaps some would define great preaching as the following:

1. Powerful Delivery

2. Creative illustrations

3. Organized thoughts

4. Challenging points

5. Practical guide to living

6. Emotional tug of heart

7. Amazing knowledge of current topics

8. Good use of media arts

9. Structured thoughts

10. Alluring and attracting themes

I wonder if we would look at great preaching with those above in mind...mixed in with sound doctrine? I've been challenged lately to preach the Gospel with every message. It's the best way to preach! For example, last night I preached a message about the life of Joseph to my middle school students. We looked at Genesis 37 and connected it to James 1 and Matthew 5. These powerful passages combined, pointed us to the cross. God's provision for Joseph, reminds us of His provision for us in the cross of Jesus; which gives us hope in suffering (James 1:2), and blessed joy in persecution (Matthew 5:10). The message was centered on repentance, faith, and joy in God's eternal provision.

I'm not a great preacher. In fact, I'm not that good at all. All I know is the Word is alive, real, and fully relevant for each day. Sinners must repent and confess Jesus as Lord. Why can't more preachers give messages centered on that foundation? I really don't know how to teach someone how to be better with their jobs or finances. I'm clueless with relationship advice. I'm lost with practical steps in improving health. I really can't preach any topical messages, because I'm tempted and drawn away from the eternal Word. However, when the Word is opened (2 Timothy 2:15), and revealed (2 Timothy 4:3), than all authority and validity is exposed to the eternal reign of Jesus (Isaiah 55:11).

I'm renewed daily by the Word. I hope any message I preach will expose the unsearchable riches of Christ, my King. I hope your church (if you attend one) has biblical preaching. I hope you will surround yourself with biblical preaching. It is such a treasure. Away from my own church, here are some preachers I listen to weekly:

1. David Platt
2. Mark Driscoll
3. Tony Merida
4. C.J. Mahaney
(All sermons above are available for free on iTunes)

These 4 men really handle the Word! Enjoy this beautiful gift. Have a great weekend ahead.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Crazy Georgia Lady

2009-10-12T13:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, as Brooke and I were heading to lunch, we noticed a lady in the middle of the street. Her car was parked with the emergency brakes on, in the other lane. I was a bit confused and concerned, to say the least. As I slowly approached her, I noticed she was bending over to pick up something on the road. My first thought was, "Oh no, there is a dead puppy...or cat." As we got a closer view, we discovered what she was risking her life to pick up; a University of Georgia flag.

I live in the south. In my culture, I've observed many people worship the god of college football. Now, before you send a response in anger toward me, please read to the end. Mark Driscoll defined idolatry in a great and biblical fashion last week on ABC. It's worth the 7 minutes to watch the interview. I believe the show was nightline...but you may want to Google it to make sure. Idolatry is simply anything we place as the object of our worship, apart from God. Years ago, I had to repent and confess of my love for baseball. I do enjoy the game still, but it doesn't hold mastery over my attention as it once did.

After a morning of corporate worship, I witnessed a lady place her life on the line, simply just to pick up a flag of her favorite team. It was indeed a tragedy. It brought several passages of Scripture to mind. Please permit me to share them with you:

"Whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things." Philippians 3:19

"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth." Matthew 6:24

"Little children, guard yourselves from idols." 1 John 5:21

"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?" Mark 8:36

"Their idols are silver and gold, The work of man's hands." Psalm 115:4

These are some of many passages of Scripture that came to mind. I hurt for people, like this lady, that waste their life on idols that lead to destruction. You can have a hobby in college football, but don't let it run you. You can enjoy playing golf, but don't desire that above the God of this World. You can enjoy the pleasures of this world, because of the infinite pleasure you have in God. Watch college football. Watch baseball. Enjoy life, but please don't allow your enjoyment become the very idolatry that our God hates. Close out this reading by taking a glance over Philippians 3.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Psalm 95

2009-10-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving
and extol him with music and song.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
In his hand are the depths of the earth,
and the mountain peaks belong to him.
The sea is his, for he made it,
and his hands formed the dry land.
Come, let us bow down in worship,
let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
for he is our God
and we are the people of his pasture,
the flock under his care.
Today, if you hear his voice,
do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah,a
as you did that day at Massahb in the desert,
where your fathers tested and tried me,
though they had seen what I did.
For forty years I was angry with that generation;
I said, “They are a people whose hearts go astray,
and they have not known my ways.”
So I declared on oath in my anger,
“They shall never enter my rest."

Psalm 95

Why do you sing songs of worship? Why do you wake up and join other believers in corporate worship gatherings each week? Think about how you would answer those two questions. After you give me your answer, read Psalm 95. It's just 11 verses...shouldn't take you long.

This powerful Psalm hits at the core of our worship gatherings. So much of this Psalm centers on the provision the Sovereign Lord gave to the Israelites in their wanderings. So much of this Psalm reminds us of His refreshing provision in our lives daily. We don't have to stretch ourselves thin to think about, "waters of Meribah" in our own lives (read Exodus 17). We have genuine worship and adoration in our souls simply by our true understanding of His nature. This Psalm gives us a few of His wonderful and indescribable attributes. Look at them with me:

1. Rock of our Salvation v.1
2. King above all gods v.3
3. Hand holds the foundation of the earth v.4
4. Formation of dry land was His work v.5
5. Our Maker! v.6
6. Our Shepherd v.7
7. His justice over sin v.8-11

These are just some of many! We gather to worship God...for who God is. Come, let us worship Him together today. Let us worship Him for the glory of HIs nature and for the grace He has given us to change ours. Once we had a fallen and sinful nature...but thru the gift of Jesus; the rock of our salvation, we given the sweet gift of gazing in His pasture. Don't worship in just selfish routine or necessity. Worship Him for what you know of Him. Don't know much, you may think? Open His Word and read. Make His attributes a divine priority to study and adore. I'll see you Sunday, friends.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Downpour

2009-10-07T08:03:00.000-07:00

I recently picked up a book titled, "Downpour" by James Macdonald. This book was no mere accident or coincidence. Around a year ago, one of my fellow staff members at my church went through this study. During that time, he experienced a time of refreshment and joy. Where did that joy come from? How was he refreshed? Those questions led my curiosity to pick up the book and read it. Friend, this is a must read for anyone that wants help in obeying and living out the Scriptures.

The book led me on a journey last week that brought such everlasting joy that my soul could not even imagine. For many months and even years, I neglected the direction of the Spirit to obey certain passages. Matthew 18:15-18 was the major passage that dealt directly with my sin...unresolved tension and hurt toward another. Last week, by God's irresistible grace, I was rewarded the gift of His reconciliation as I practiced what Matthew 18 commands. After 3 separate talks/meetings, the 3 individuals that were once separated from me by a prideful wall were drawn closer to me with sweet humble forgiveness. It's hard to go to someone for the purpose of reconciliation. In fact, I would dare to say...nobody wants to do it. I'm ashamed that there are many...perhaps some in leadership, that are ignoring this command. Friend, stop right now and read Matthew 18. Pray for a downpour of the Spirit to lead you to peace and restoration with anyone that you have wronged, or for anyone that has wronged you.

Another downpour in my life came from reading 1 John 1. We are commanded to live our lives in daily confession/repentance. Are you doing this? It's not easy either! A sweet time of worship for me is to seek the Spirit's Crucifixion over my sin and to allow the death I have experienced in Christ to ignite my life in Him to radiate His glory. It's very hard to lead, preach, and teach, without practicing the joy of daily confession/repentance. It's needed. It's commissioned. Don't be satisfied with a prayer in your lifetime to cover all...that will reveal to you the true condition of your heart! (Matthew 6:21).

Jesus came 2,000 years ago, to die an embarrassing and humbling 6 hour death...for the daily sins I seek forgiveness for daily. He died not for my happiness, pleasure, or dominion. He died, out of obedience to His Father, for the ushering of our perfect righteousness, so one day; our tired bodies will experience the everlasting pouring of God's glory. Friend, have you repented (to turn away from breaking God's law, and turning to Jesus who bled for your sins), and confessed Jesus as Lord? Experience a downpour today. Enjoy the gift of His eternal presence in life. Seek Him daily as the deer sought for some water (Psalm 42), or the Psalmist sought for his hunger to be satisfied (Psalm 34).

Churches need a downpour of revival. It will come when pride is eliminated, Scripture is obeyed, and love toward God first, and man second, is truly applied. May God grant us grace today to do what He has called us to do.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Faith renewal

2009-10-02T11:36:00.001-07:00

Do you have faith? What is faith? I mean really, do we live by faith? My life has experienced a few trials this past week in which faith has been a word that has conquered my soul. The Word of God challenges us to live by faith (Romans 1:17, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 10:38), but do we really do this? I struggle. In all areas, am I constantly giving my full reliance and trust in the sovereign God of this world?

Last weekend, I attended a wonderful conference with a few friends. While coming home from the conference, I received a call that my 5 month old pregnant wife was in a car accident with a friend. I was scared. My wife's phone was dead, so I couldn't talk to her. Thankfully, her friend was kind enough to allow Brooke to call me with her phone. By God's amazing grace, the accident didn't harm the baby. Both my wife and her friend were hurt, but only muscle bruising and soreness in the ribs. Please pray for their recovery.

I was scared. Where was my faith then? Did I think about my sovereign Lord, who was in control of it all? For a few moments...I didn't really think about Him. My thoughts were aimed at my wife and child's health. I'm ashamed to say that the song I sing in church ("My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness) was not the song in my heart at that moment. Why? If I have faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the forgiveness for my sins...why did I panic? Oh, may His Spirit help me to live by faith daily.

My dad had surgery a few days ago. I had faith in the surgeon's hands. By God's grace, my dad was fine. However, I had a few small moments of fear and concern. Perhaps that is ok...but still, my thoughts at those moments weren't on the Savior. Oh, may His Spirit help me to live by faith daily.

I can go on, but I'll stop for now. My short challenge for you today is to live by faith...I mean, really live by faith. Don't just say it. Do it. Enjoy it. Thank God for it, for we have faith only as a gift from Him! (Ephesians 2:9).

My friend just arrived. Got to run.

Soli Deo Gloria.

Dave

Great time in Wake Forrest

2009-09-26T04:36:00.001-07:00

This morning, I'm closing out my time in Wake Forrest. I've been here since Thursday night, attending a preaching conference. My soul has been refreshed, my appetite for the Word has grown, and my desire to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8), has given me excitement to return home! I'm thankful for the Spirit's anointing over the ministries led by the men that I've heard this weekend. They have faithfully taken the Word to their churches and preached messages that are centered on Jesus.

My prayer this morning as we pack up and head home is for churches to quit the entertainment and to preach Jesus. I believe His message works the best. I like what C.J. Mahaney said last night, "I choose to be unoriginal." What a powerful statement! I really don't have to watch all the latest movies and listen to the latest gossip around celebrities that I will never meet...I can boast in the One that has set me free (Colossians 1) from the wrath that was aimed at me (Galatians 3:13). Why would I go away from that timeless truth? Why would any youth minister go away from that timeless truth? Why would churches subject themselves to preaching and programming that focuses on self and not on the empty tomb?

I'm heading home today. I'm ready to join my church family in corporate worship. I'm ready to boast in the cross. I'm ready to celebrate the glory of King Jesus. If any are offended because of the Savior...may they repent and enjoy Him forever.

Father, my prayer is for your Spirit today to equip churches to be ready for Sunday. Please ignite the bride to see every Sunday as a gift of the resurrection. Please forgive her if she gathers to talk sports and gossip. Please wash her continually and lead her to be radiant in Your eyes. We know it's only because of Jesus that we meet. Please remind us all of that tomorrow. To your Name be the glory, forever and ever, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Trust...or face a motorcycle.

2009-09-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Last night was a night to remember. After our High School worship service started, I had the students move close to the stage. One of my pet peeves is a large room with students scattered. Since we are the bride of Christ, I want us to worship...sitting together. Some think I'm mean, but I really don't care. As I told a friend this morning, my role is not to be a buddy...but to be a minister to my students. Last night was a classic example to why it is important to lead and not give in.

After I announced to my students the need to move, a few still didn't follow directions. So, instead of moving along with the service, I had to mean for just a quick moment. I don't remember all I said, but it was something to the affect of, "We won't start until everyone moves..." Once everyone moved to the front, we started the night of worship...only to have something happen that freaked all of us out.

All I said was, "turn to your Bibles to Daniel 6." Once those words came out of my mouth, the motorcycle fell. Please allow me to explain the purpose of the motorcycle being 10 feet above our heads; on top of the closet entrance...I DON'T KNOW. It's been there for at least 8-9 years. Someone donated the bike years ago; the bike was filled with sand, and placed in a platform high off the ground. The bike was positioned to lean toward the wall, not the chairs below. How this bike fell...I don't know. What I do know is our God was gracious and merciful last night. I had so many questions. I still do. Here are some:

1. What if I didn't make my students move to the front?
2. What if I allowed them to do whatever they wanted to do?
3. What if I didn't teach them lessons on obedience?
4. Why did the bike fall at that time? Why not during the week when nobody was in the room?
5. What caused it to fall?
6. And so on....

I'm glad my students listened. I'm glad they learned a lesson in obedience last night. I'm glad God spared us of not seeing someone hurt...or even killed (think about a motorcycle full of sand, falling on your head)!! Friend, we worship the Everlasting God. He is full of mercy and steadfast love (Exodus 34). He draws us to His side, His safety and His eternal provision (Romans 8). We are His...because of Jesus. Friend, if you haven't repented of your sin (to turn away from it, and turn toward Jesus), then please hear my cry today...DON'T DELAY. You really aren't promised another day. Today is a great day, to turn away from your selfishness and to turn to Jesus who is mighty to save. Obey His teachings (John 14:15), and submit to His glory (Psalm 115). One day, we all will stand and give an account of our lives (Romans 14:12, 1 Peter 4:5). May you be found in obedience to His Word (Romans 5:19), and washed in His blood (Psalm 51:7, 1 Cor 6:11).

I close with this powerful hymn...one of my favorites. Enjoy Him forever. He is worthy to be praised...and trusted!

'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise;
And to know, "Thus saith the Lord!"

Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus
Just to trust His cleansing blood
And in simple faith to plunge me
'Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus
Just from sin and self to cease
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace

I'm so glad I learned to trust thee
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend!
And I know that Thou art with me
wilt be with me to the end.

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I've proved Him o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

Psalm 75 - What a Sovereign Lord!

2009-09-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

Psalm 75 is a rich body of text that radiates the very true character of God. He gives us His Word and holds us accountable to obedience. A great judge and ruler knows the law and makes sure the law is obeyed. This Psalm begins with thanksgiving as Asaph focuses on the wonderful name of God (v.1) and the remembrance of God’s deeds (v.1). His Name is Wonderful. His deeds are wonderful. We can see that in Psalm 8, 19, and 46. We can see that in Luke 9, 24, and John 17. I love the nature of God that reminds us that His Word is true, and He is true to His Word. There is no inconsistency with God. He acts and wills according to His divine Word.

The Psalm continues with God’s promise to hold the wicked with His justice. Last night, I preached a message to the middle school students out of Genesis 11, 50, and Revelation 20. These three passages are a great reminder to us all that God is sovereign over all; including sin. Sovereignty is a weighty word that shows us that God is the ruler and authority over all. With that simple definition set, we see in Psalm 75 that at God’s appointed time, He will judge. He holds humanity to His desire (v.2-6). It’s beautiful. Genesis 11 contains the story of the Tower of Babel. In that passage, humanity wanted to make a name for themselves apart from the glory of God’s name. In the process of building a tower to reach their view of heaven and fame, God stops the process. They disobeyed His Word given in Genesis 1:28 and 9:1. He remembered His Word. In Genesis 50, at the end of Joseph’s life, God revealed to Joseph’s brothers that what they intended for bad; God’s sovereignty meant for good. Finally, in Revelation 20, Satan is released from 1,000 years of captivity, to deceive many to go to war against God…only to be defeated in one verse. God will be sovereign over His own adversary. His Word promised us that in Genesis 3:15 and Romans 16:20!

So, my challenge today for you is to live your life with peace, to the God of peace (Romans 16:20), and rejoice in His sovereign grace and justice. Be refreshed in His rule and reign. Join Asaph in verse 9, in rejoicing over of the declaration of God’s eternal praise. Enjoy Him today.

Joy in Yucatan

2009-09-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

This evening, I'm awaiting my turn to lecture on the doctrine of sin. So far, I've lectured four times, on the doctrine of God and man. I love teaching the riches of God's perfect and Holy Word. Seeing these sweet people in Mexico make sacrifices in their schedules to endure a week of classes. This week, the classes are:

1. An Overview of the Gospel of Mark
2. The Biblical Woman
3. Systematic Theology 2.

Can I share with you my burden for all Christians to take the time to study and sacrifice for the glory of the Word? I see in my state, at least, that church is reduced to a show at times with little to no emphasis on the true Word. It seems that it can be so easy to get comfortable with easy going faith without any need to sacrifice. This week, I've been refreshed and reminded by these precious folks that the Word is worth the work.

They sit in a room that has only 2 air conditioning units...that only bring the room temperature to only 85 degrees. The hot weather of Mexico makes all of us sweat as we study. There are 2 waves of students. The first wave comes in the morning, and the second at night. Both groups endure 3-4 hours of seminary classes. From Monday to Friday, they receive almost enough for a full semester of study. For us in America, we can look at this as a tough and perhaps straining week. For them, they look at it as the bread in which their appetites are satisfied in.

I want my church, my students, my family, and my friends to crave the Word of God. I want them to have joy in Jesus alone. It can be so easy to reduce joy to nothing more but a temporary happiness in self. Every time I finish teaching (an hour session a piece); I'm surrounded by pastors and members that share with me the very joy from their souls. Here, they love Jesus. I mean, they really love Jesus. Their lives are consumed with the joy of their Savior and the riches of His Word. Their worship services consist of nothing but solid preaching (sometimes more than an hour), biblical prayers, biblical songs, and joy of genuine fellowship. Where I'm from, we have to rush out the door as soon as an hour ends. If someone were to preach longer than 30 minutes, they may be looked at in a negative light. Here, they crave the bread daily.

I hurt for the lack of joy that perhaps many churches in the States carry. We need joy. We need the joy that I see here in Yucatan. I can't wait to return to my church and share more with them the riches of God's Word. I'm compelled to preach nothing but the entire counsel of God's Word. No holding back. I'm drawn to daily evangelize. No holding back. My joy is satisfied daily. It's amazing to know that separated from my home country, I receive the deep joy of the true bride that exists in all nations, for the glory of the Risen King.

I close with this powerful passage. May it encourage you as it encourages me.

"13Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven milesa from Jerusalem. 14They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16but they were kept from recognizing him. 17He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”They stood still, their faces downcast. 18One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19“What things?” he asked.“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” 25He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26Did not the Christb have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. - Luke 24:13-27.

May we, out of great joy, take the time to study Jesus for who He is...in ALL of Scripture.

A short view of Psalm 70

2009-09-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O Lord, make haste to help me! Let them be put to shame and confusion who seek my life! Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt! Let them turn back because of their shame who say, "Aha, Aha!" May all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You! May those who love your salvation say evermore, "God is great!" But I am poor and needy; hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!" - Psalm 70

5 verses. In just 5 verses, we see David offer up a short but yet powerful lament. Before we continue with this devotional today, please permit me to remind you of the definition behind lament. So often, we throw around words that don't make sense to some. If you are part of that number (and I was a few years ago); this is for you.

Lament = the function serves in a way that allows the writer to present a difficult situation before the presence of the Lord, pleading for His help. This type of writing consumes about 1/3 of the entire book of Psalms!

OK, we have the definition laid down. Lets look into Psalm 70 together, In these verses, David seeks the Lord's help, His rescue, from enemies nearby. The plea comes out of quick need. Take a moment and look at how verse one begins. Here, we see David begin with, "Make haste, O God." In fact, the ESV translation uses this phrasing twice in just one verse. So, when something is used more than once, we can quickly identify that as a great need, can we? I'd like to submit to you three points from this text (I'm a baptist preacher, so I sometimes look at many things in life with 3 points...it is hereditary, I guess.)

1. In His power and presence, we have the privilege of coming to Him with great despair.
- Look at verses 1-3.
- Here, we see that David is coming out of fear, out of desperation. In verse two, he requests for the Lord to move the positioning, the movement of his enemies. His concern moves from the Lord to making quick movement Himself (v.1), to moving the enemies (v.2). This movement culminates in verse 3, when David pleas for their turning back and dwelling in their own shame.
-Why such strong language, you may ask? It's hard to fully understand what is going on here. I believe it could very easily be a pagan army that was trying to impose false worship and immoral living to God's people. David, as God's selected king, was in charge of protecting the people and leading them to the genuine worship of God Almighty, through faithful obedience. His passion was for the nation. His anger was toward those that would try to abuse the very character and holiness of God. Do you have that anger in you?

Recently, I was in a bookstore by myself. When I walked inside the main entrance, the first book that caught my eye was, "The Shack." Many Christians view this book as, "A great read for understanding God more..." or, "It helps you understand the Trinity." or, "It's just fiction, so we shouldn't freak out over it too much." Well, please permit me to share with you the anger I have toward books that lead people astray. I believe it is the same anger and fear that David, Stephen, Peter, and Paul carried. The holiness, the glory, the beauty of God is found in His truth, His grace, His Word. We know of His Trinity by the way He revealed it to us. We know of His character by the way He revealed it to us. We must develop within us a deep desire to protect the Word, and to preach faithfully to those that are outside the camp (as Hebrews 12-13 refers to). I believe our passion will lead us to praying prayers of lament; requesting the Lord's help as we protect His bride from outside enemies. Oh, may we rise up like the soldiers He calls us to be (Ephesians 6), and faithfully declare His full counsel (2 Tim 4), for the glory of His name (Isaiah 43:7). Think about that today. What is your greatest concern? Is it your own health or prosperity? Or is it for the salvation of lost souls and the elimination of false teachers that serve as wolves to His sheep; His very enemies? (read John 8:44 to help with this point).

2. In His power and presence, we have the privilege of rejoicing in His perfect joy.
-Verse 4 is beautiful. Take a moment and read it.
- Here, we see a powerful display of His infinite worth. I love what John Piper teaches throughout His ministry, "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him." This simple statement is the backbone of his theology. I enjoy it every time I quote it.
- Here, we see an infinite and eternal God give us gladness in our souls. Do you seek Him? Do you view Him as the ultimate source of joy in your life? Take a moment and read Jeremiah 29:13. I memorized this verse as a teenager. It first was a verse that put the attention on myself. However, when I got older, I viewed it a bit differently. The Lord gives us the privilege of being found. The very fact that He tells us of His predetermined plan (Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 2:10), and that plan is to display the glory of Jesus (1 Peter 2:9), than seeking Him as our only source of hope and joy is the culmination of His power and presence working in us already! Verses 1-3 show David, a guy that was wanting God to help in a time of trouble...this king was sought after by God, to lead God's people. You and I have the divine privilege today of His eternal fellowship, by His grace, through His power and presence. Live out verse 4 today, friend. Seek Him in all things (Matthew 6:33). Rejoice and be glad in Him alone (Philippians 4). Declare His greatness (Psalm 115). Radiate His character (1 Peter 1:15). Preach His salvation message (Mark 16:15).

3. In His power and presence, we have the privilege of submitting humbly.
- Finally, in verse 5, we can see humility.
- David here shows his position in view of God's position (my definition of humility).
- He declares to God that he is poor and needy...in need of God to come to His rescue.
-So often, we rely too much on our own effort or decision making for each day. How often do you approach the King in prayer? Even in your own effort, your seeking of God in prayer is ushered by His Spirit! (Romans 8:9, 26). Why would we think otherwise? David places God as the subject of his need. He doesn't go to his friends or other kings...he sought after the Lord out of humility. Do you walk in humility? Do you come to Him daily in your own desperation and need? I have no clue how to be a youth minister. Every day that I wake up, I have to come to Him for help. I have to seek His guidance, for my wisdom is foolish. I've learned that the hard way. I need His power and presence to lead me, even in the midst of enemies (yes, you can even have enemies inside the church...it is a tragedy.) Seek Him today. Go to Him in your need. Trust in His great pleasure. Remember Proverbs 3:5-6.

So, today I want to challenge you to enjoy His power and presence. Trust in Him alone when you feel attacked. May His Spirit fill your soul with the sweetest song of true worship; birthed out of joy and humility in His eternal position.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Big Numbers...Genuine Disciples?

2009-09-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

Last week on facebook, I observed some one's status that simply read, "Great night of worship...350 middle school students and 250 high school students." When I originally read the status, I confess; I was jealous. (That night, we had maybe 115 students with both groups combined). Most youth ministers weigh the success of their ministry on the amount of students that attend. It seems to be something all of us inherit within our nature when we take on the position of leading. It's hard not to do this. So often, I speak with other youth ministers and the common first question I get is, "How many are you running?" I'd love to answer by saying something like, "It depends on what they do wrong...but normally we send out 5-6 on a few miles when they forget their bibles." It may not be funny to you, but I laugh even now as I type it. It doesn't take much to make me laugh, I guess.

Again, revisit what I wrote above with the facebook status one put. I'm not that impressed with numbers as I used to be. When I first started in student ministry, I was 19 years old with hopes of growing the youth group with enormous results. I admit, when we went from 5-6 students to over 20...I was pretty pumped. I felt that I was on top of the world with such great growth. However, when I look back even today, I realize that the ministry then was built on fun, games, music, and shallow messages with little to no real biblical content. I was simply putting on a show that was equivalent to cotton candy (something that grows very large, but contains no substance.) I wonder if that number are active and passionate followers of Christ today? I wonder if they are faithfully leading their families and serving the bride? If not, than what is the purpose of that inflation?

Why do so many ministry leaders weigh the success of their ministry on the size of people that come? Before I give you my take on this problem, let me highlight the positive points of wanting to focus on numbers:

1. It reflects the intentions of believers (when we invite our lost friends to church...and the church grows, then we are following Matthew 28:19...if indeed those that come are turned into true children of the Living God.)

2. It reveals the passion of leadership. When leaders don't care about who comes...then why should someone care about coming? Leaders that focus on wanting more to participate and hear...reveal to the listeners that their heart is focused on declaring the love of God above this world...read 1 John 5:1-5 to help understand more...

3. It resembles the impact of the ministry of Jesus. When He preached, multitudes at times gathered to hear. When the true name and doctrines of Jesus are preached, we must all hope that many gather!

There are more...but these are some. I hold onto these. I want numbers, don't get me wrong. But, should we identify the effectiveness of worship with how many come? Why not define a great night of worship simply by the glory of God being revealed in the presence of passionate believers; on their faces with joy in His pleasure. Worship = His revelation and grace to sinners such as you and me...our response with love and admiration, and our holding Him in high esteem. Worship = many numbers...nothing but a man centered approach to fitting his own personal agenda. If I were to open my eyes and see nobody around me in a time of lifting up praises to my King...do I stop? Or, do I close and continue? What would be the purpose of quiet times if we can't identify worship with just solitude? Does this make any sense to you?

This passage really got to me this morning. I invite you to join me in reading it:

He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him.” From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve.
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.” - John 6:65-69

In verse 65, Jesus declared the only way we can receive salvation; the enabling of the Father to draw our attention and repentance to the Son. We know this is one of the reasons why we have the Holy Spirit. To convict sinners to repent and turn to Christ. Messages that point out repentance, confession, election, and wrath seem to draw people away from church. It seems above, the same result happened with Jesus. They followed Him in John 6 when He fed the multitudes, because their physical needs were met. However, when He preached a message above simply meeting temporary needs, many left. Hmm...seems to happen today.

I love Simon Peter. I love his response when Jesus asked him if he was going to leave. Man, that is the response of a true worshipper! Where else can we go? Why would we not want to go and participate in corporate worship gatherings, mission trips, evangelism outreaches, bible studies, serving opportunities, ministry leading, etc...We WANT to come and gather as a group because in Jesus, we have the eternal words of life! He is the WORD (John 1), and we simply want to follow Him closely as living stones in His foundation (1 Peter 2:4-5).

Do we take the definition of school as, "It was great today...1,250 were there!!" Absolutely not. It's school. We may not have a response. Why would we treat the church with this regard? If 1,250 came to church...why not more? What did those 1,250 do? Did they come to enjoy a show? Did they come to have their ears tickled? (2 Tim 4:3) Is He not worthy to be praised? My hope is to see that number continue to increase...and to be centered on His revelation, His glory, and His grace. Not our show. Not our bragging rights. Not our pride.

May He forgive us when we use our definition of worship over His.

Just something to think about today...

Awakened by joy

2009-08-26T05:18:00.000-07:00

This morning came a bit too quickly for me. I enjoyed a wonderful evening with Brooke yesterday as she celebrated her 27th birthday. It was such a sweet joy to take her out to dinner and then to watch her open up a few gifts. Man, she looked good. I love my wife. I'm so blessed to have the joy of her hand. It was an incredible evening, to say the least. Then, the morning came.

Normally, I love the mornings. I love waking up early and diving into God's perfect Word. This morning, however, I was a bit tired. This week has drained me some with teaching a few times and then preparing for a wedding and speaking engagements in the future. My body wasn't cooperating with my mind to focus on the Scriptures, at all. 2 cups of coffee helped. Proverbs 16-18 helped. But, I drove to Starbucks to meet with Zach, still tired and needing to be awakened. By His joy, He delivered my wake up call.

Please permit me to proclaim to you my gladness in being a youth pastor. I love seeing teenagers get excited about their faith. I love seeing their passion as they share the good news to their lost friends. I love seeing their hunger for His Word. I love seeing their excitement as they participate in corporate worship. I love seeing their desire for this culture to embrace truth and to run to the cross. I love students.

This morning, our gracious Lord woke me up by seeing Zach excited in 1 Peter, and then seeing other seniors gather for bible study...all in Starbucks. These high school seniors are setting a standard that most adults cannot reach. 4 seniors in high school were in the coffee shop today for the purpose of waking up to God's glorious Word. By His grace, I sat back as a spectator; applauding the work of the Wonderful Maker. I'm so glad I drove early to have coffee and discipleship with Zach, for in doing so, I was blessed with the sweet privilege of waking up to the joy of Christ; indwelt in my students.

Did I mention to you that I love being a youth pastor? Above that, I love being an adopted child of the Lord Most High; through the riches of Christ and the power of His Holy Spirit. How awesome is the Lord Most High!!! I'M AWAKE!!! (Oh, and 2-3 cups of coffee helped too...)

This passage really sums up the joy of the morning to me. I want to close by sharing it with you, "Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days." Psalm 90:14

Zach Norman and Tori DeYoung - thank you for the example you set for other students, in your passion for His Word and to share your faith in His Gospel to others. May students and adults follow your example. You make a youth pastor very proud and joyful.

What do we give?

2009-08-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

I recently read a powerful quote from C.S. Spurgeon from his excellent devotional entitled, Morning and Evening. The quote goes like this, "We give Jesus the crown of silver when He deserves gold." When I read this quote...needless to say, I was broken. I believe the truth within that one statement can lead any church, by the marvelous Spirit, to great revival. It has recently given me the question as a minister of the Gospel and a true lover of church; what do we give?

Spurgeon's quote came from his passionate devotional inspired from Ephesians 3:8. Paul writes with such marvelous excellence, "To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ." Within that one statement, I am drawn to the question; What do I give? According to the verse (and perhaps contrary to most modern church approaches), I am:

1. The least of any...born as a sinner that for years lived for his own crown and not for the golden crown of Jesus. (Read Romans to get a better picture of this). Even today, I still fight the temptation to wear a crown that isn't mine.

2. Grace was given to me. I didn't earn it. I didn't really work to get it. It was given to me. 1 John 4:9 reminds me that He loved me...before I even had the comprehension of loving Him. I have been predestined to receive such marvelous love and grace (according to Ephesians 1)...a love that I don't deserve. What do I give?

3. Paul, a terrible sinner saved by the mercy of God (read Acts 7-9 to get a better understanding of this guy), was forever changed to preach the Gospel. He was GIVEN task to GIVE to others a beautiful gift; a faith in the only One that is mighty to save. So passionate was His desire to give the news of the Gospel, that he called us to follow his example (read Romans 10, Galatians 1, Ephesians 1-3, Philippians 2-3, Colossians 1, etc.) What do I give?

4. The quote is how I end these 4 points; we give because God has given us the greatest gift of all; the Unsearchable Riches of His Son! We have the Messiah. We have the gift of the indwelling of God Most High (John 1, Colossians 1, Hebrews 4, 7). What do I give in response? I believe the passionate response to the greatest gift...is to preach the good news, feed the hungry, clothe the poor, protect the church against false teachers, and so on... For me especially, it the gift of Christ draws me to give sacrificial love to Brooke and my future child. What do I gift? I attempt to answer this question with daily reading about the gift He has given to me.

On Thursday of last week, I drove over to Scottish Rite Children's Hospital to give a few hours of encouragement to Weston. He is a 15 year old that recently was diagnosed with cancer. Since April, his family has gone through tremendous trials. Seeing him in the hospital on Thursday gave me more of a hatred toward sin. Because of our parents (Adam and Eve), and their desire to disobey the Holy God of this World, we have seen sickness enter the world. I believe that in my hatred toward sin, I give love and glory to my Father by visiting hospitals and encouraging those that are sick. What a beautiful testimony! For those that believe in no God because of the sign of suffering in the world, I wonder what would go through their mind when they see the Church rise up and take care of the sick and needy? Instead of bitterness, perhaps they will see the unsearchable riches of Christ in us? What do you give?

We give, because He first gave to us.
We love, because He first loved us.

Today, don't live your life in such a way that gives to the riches of Christ a crown of silver. Give Him the love and glory due His Name! For students, do well in school and preach His Gospel; for you desire gold, not silver. For husbands, love your wives and lead your family by the Gospel. For wives, love and support your husbands and paint for them a picture of the church. For children, obey your parents for the reason of worshipping your Father in Heaven. For ministers, don't lead selfishly, but rather for the purpose of others to drink the milk of the pure Word. For teachers, teach with excellence for a greater purpose; to help others find the truth of the Gospel. For others, do whatever you do, for the glory of the riches of Christ! (Colossians 3:24).

What do we give? Let us give Him our reckless and unspeakable love that is genuine from what we daily realize of what He has given to us; Himself.

Excitement toward the unknown/known

2009-08-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

OK, I have to write again about my excitement about being a dad soon. Every week, we celebrate one week closer to the arrival of our baby (I know, rocket science...). The excitement I've had lately is just uncontainable. I'm so curious to what this child will be like. I want to know what kind of person he/she will become. I've read about many heroes of the faith recently, and my hopes is for my child to set the way for many to hear the Gospel. I'm excited about being a daddy. I believe we can carry excitement to an even deeper step; our excitement to being with the One that redeemed us from the curse!

I really like what the author of Hebrew says, "1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." These verses give me excitement about being a child of the Living God. By His eternal grace, I can throw off everything that hinders me...the sin that entangles, and by His power; run with great perseverance until the race is finished. What does that mean? It means the culmination of sanctification. Please permit me to explain in these 3 steps to remind you of Biblical salvation:

1. Justification - the moment of salvation in which you were declared right and innocent before the presence of the Holy God of this World...paid for by the blood of His Son. (You were saved)

2. Sanctification - the process of becoming more conformed into the likeness of Jesus. It is the process of being set apart and made holy...really it is the preparation time until you enter glory. (You are being saved)

3. Glorification - the final step as a believer; being with and enjoying God forever. One day, when your heart stops its rhythm, you will enter into eternity. By His grace, your fare has been paid to enter and enjoy His majesty. The race is over. No more tears. The waiting period has ended. (You will be saved)

I feel like as a pending daddy, I am experiencing sanctification in a real practical way. We were given the Good news of our baby (justification), and now we are waiting for our baby. We talk much about our baby. We share with others about our baby. We work to meet our baby. We enjoy thinking about our baby. One day, in God's amazing glory, we will (by His grace and will) get to meet the baby we have been waiting for. I pray by His grace and faithfulness, this will happen! What a day that will be... but even in the joy and excitement of wanting to see the baby that hasn't arrived yet; what is more glorious is the fact that one day, we will get to be with our Father in Heaven.

Do you live in such a way in which you are preparing for the presence of the Almighty? Do you enjoy Him this side of glory? Enjoy the step of sanctification as you grow into His beautiful likeness. If you don't know Him; read Romans 1-8 and may His gracious Spirit lead you to His salvation. Other texts to help?

Galatians 1-3
Colossians 1
Hebrews 4-10
John 3
1 Corinthians 15
2 Corinthians 5

Soli Deo Gloria!

A beautiful read on the beach

2009-08-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

Brooke and I returned Saturday night from a 3 day vacation in celebration of our 3 year wedding anniversary. It was a wonderful time away for us. I'm blessed to have her as my bride and to see her excitement as she prepares for the arrival of our baby come February. Our recent trip was to a beach in South Carolina. Often times when we go on vacation, we go to a beach. I'm not a big fan of beaches because of the sun, sand everywhere, and the fact that I'm the hairiest and whitest guy there. Nonetheless, it means much to my bride to go, so I grin and bear it. What I do enjoy about going to the beach is the beauty of getting to read. This past trip, I was blessed to finish my book by J.I Packer, and then I was privileged to read the biography of C.T. Studd. What a beautiful read! (I'm a nerd...I enjoy reading away from other reading...)

C.T. Studd was a missionary that lived a little less than 100 years ago; serving in China, India, and then parts of Africa. He was a popular cricketer from England that gave his life to following Jesus. He gave up the glamour of being a famous athlete in order to preach the Gospel to lost people in different cultures. Studd is one of my heroes of the faith. At 25 years of age, he received a large inheritance from his father's death. The money was in today's understanding was probably millions...was given away to support ministries. Some was given to support the beginning of the Salvation Army. Some was given to George Muller in his work with the orphans...some was given to the evangelist that helped lead his family to an understanding of Christ; D.L Moody. Moody used the gift to help start the famous Bible institute that bears his name today. All of these gifts came from a simple reading of Scripture...most likely Matthew 6:19-24. I can say without any hesitation...C.T was a stud. Here is a quote from his biography that floored me,

"Christ's call is to feed the hungry, not the full; to save the lost, not the stiff-necked; not to call the scoffers, but sinners to repentance; not to build and furnish comfortable chapels, churches, and cathedrals at home in which to rock Christian professors to sleep by means of clever essays, stereotyped prayers and artistic musical performances, but to raise living churches of souls among the destitute, to capture men from the devil's clutches and snatch them from the very jaws of hell, to enlist and train them for Jesus, and make them into an almighty Army of God. But this can only be accomplished by a red-hot, unconventional, unfettered Holy Ghost religion, which neither Church nor State, neither man nor traditions are worshipped or preached, but only Christ and Him crucified. Not to confess Christ by fancy collars, clothes, silver croziers or gold watch-chain crosses, church steeples or richly embroidered altar cloths, but by reckless sacrifice and heroism in the foremost trenches." - C.T. Studd

When I read these words, I was drawn to the beauty of the Gospel. We worship the God of this world that doesn't rely on our impressive display of wealth or knowledge, our prosperity or popularity, our goals or ambitions, our prestige or our power, our fame or our fortune, our way or our want, our esteem or our self righteousness. We worship the God of this world that draws us to His saving grace through the atonement of His Son. He pardoned our sin, paid our fine, erased our debt, and changed our course from hell to His eternal splendor. From that, as a child by His creative work, we are simply called to be obedient.

I don't care if anyone likes my style of preaching or not. I don't care if anyone enjoys my leadership or not. I don't care if my clothes impress people. I've learned at a young age (By His grace) that allegiance to the acceptance of man leads to the rejection of His ultimate authority. I believe reckless surrender to His daily provision will indeed increase the beauty of the mission of the church as well as the genuine fellowship with other believers. All my cares are found in the joyful surrender to His wonderful Word. I don't want to study and know it for knowledge sake, but to study and apply it for the sake of treasured worship of my Savior King.

"If you love me, than you will obey what I command." John 14:15.

Take time and study some of the lives of missionaries that gave it all to Jesus for the sake of wanting His kingdom to grow on earth.

"

Loss is Gain

2009-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

When I was in college, I used to sit by my television for hours each night. My time was spent watching sports and wanting to know the updates on several players. Most of my conversations would consist of comparing the stats from one player to another. Most of my memorization skills were found in who played for what team, in what year, for how long, and for what salary. It seemed to be a passion in my life. For some odd reason, I found great worth in it all. Much money was spent attending baseball conferences to get autographs, collecting game used equipment, and other random purchases. Overall, (baseball especially) sports were my god.....

Not any more.

Yesterday, I laughed when I noticed the cable box sitting next to the television; unplugged. It's been there for 3 weeks now. 3 weeks ago, I stood in line for almost 2 hours to get it replaced...only to to sit on my floor. Why do I even have it? We never watch TV anymore. Nothing really captivates my attention like Jesus. What a Savior.

I like what this verse teaches, "But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ" (Philippians 3:7). In Chapter 3 of Paul's letter to the Philippians, we see a beautiful display of Paul's former passions and accomplishments in measure to the riches of Jesus. After listing many of his prestigious positions and past actions, we see Paul valiantly preach the beauty of his regeneration. In other words, when he found satisfaction in Christ; the Savior of the World who redeemed him from God's just wrath and gave him the gift of grace...Paul then viewed everything in the world as a loss, as rubbish in comparison to the Savior.

Loss is gain... I like this statement. I don't really follow sports or other things like I used to. In fact, I normally check on scores about once or twice a week to see how the Cardinals are doing. I really couldn't tell you who has been traded or who is playing well. I don't have stats memorized anymore nor do I have the insight on what potential player is to be drafted. I really don't care anymore. In fact, much of what I used to count as a joy...I view now as rubbish.

My passion is Christ. I want to study and memorize His Word, for I find great value in it. I want to teach others the beautiful doctrines that are soaked inside the 66 books of God's collective treasure. I want to spend the rest of my life, like Paul, counting all things as a loss or rubbish in comparison to Christ.

Do I miss the 5 hour nights of football or baseball? Not really. Since graduating college (the days in which I was obsessed with sports), I've been blessed to go to seminary, work 2 summers at a camp, and now almost 4 years on staff at my church in Acworth...My heart is captivated by Him... No loss, all gain. What a Savior.

Soli Deo Gloria

A Night to Remember

2009-08-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

Last night, Brooke and I were privileged to attend a live taping of the upcoming, "Chris Tomlin Christmas show" that is scheduled to be broadcast later (during Christmas, I imagine...) It was a great night to get away and sing familiar songs with an artist that we both respect. We sat in this tiny room with only 70 others, and joined Chris and his band as they sang each song twice (for recording purposes). 4 hours of Christmas music in August...what a treat. My legs hurt that night because a girl that worked for the station (or just acted like she did, Brooke and I are still investigating), put her chair at my knees making me feel like I was inside a kitchen cabinet. Anyways, I trail off, forgive me. It was a great night.

The 4th song that Tomlin sang was his version of Amazing Grace. With eyes closed across the studio, we joined our hearts as a perfect bond of unity (Colossians 3:14), as we sang to our King. During one of the verses, I was given a sweet reminder of my call into ministry. The Spirit opened my attention to the fact that 10 years ago, I was drawn in a worship service to full time vocational ministry. 10 years ago, the service was led by Chris Tomlin and Louie Giglio (who also was in the room with me last night for the recording). I was awakened to the fact that last night, both of those men were in the room with me...and 70 0thers. It's not that I was worshiping them or giving them credit; but I was amazed by the faithfulness of God.

10 years ago, I was a scared 17 year old who had no clue of what to expect in ministry. I nervously told my youth minister on a night during that week of camp that I felt drawn to faithfully serve the King in ministry work. My youth minister quickly prayed with me and began to encourage me (as he still does today). That night, he did something that really freaked me out; he took me backstage to meet the guy who was leading music (Chris Tomlin) and let me talk with him about ministry. I got to spend about a half an hour with Tomlin that night, just the two of us. He told me something that has still stood with me today. That statement was; "Fall in love with the Scriptures and may your heart be centered on His infinite worth," something like that, at least. I've never forgotten it. This morning, I read Psalm 56-68 and Hebrews 1. I love His Word and I can see how 10 years ago, the Lord used Chris to help me understand what truly is the foundation for ministry; His unchanging Word. God is sovereign and He could've used a 9 year old...it's just neat that He used Tomlin.

Today, I'm a 27 year old who has no clue of what to expect in ministry. With a beautiful bride and a baby on the way, I find myself at times completely clueless on where to take the next step. However, when I look in His Word, I rejoice in His infinite worth and realize its not my role to be concerned, its my joy to follow. 10 years ago, the Lord used those 2 men; anointed by His Spirit and messengers of His Word, to help me begin a life of faithful obedience in full time ministry. Last night, I got to worship with both of them. In all His glory and splendor, why would He allow a nervous and weak soul such as I to serve His bride? Grace. He is indeed the Wonderful Maker.

I close with this verse that has encouraged me today. "What is man that you remember him, the son of man that you look after him? (Psalm 8:4). I'm eternally grateful for my God who remembers me, knows me, and gave me a gentle reminder last night to the rich call He has placed in my life.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Psalm 139 with a heartbeat

2009-08-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

1O Lord, you have searched me
and you know me.
2You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O Lord.
5You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths,a you are there.
9If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
12even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17How precious tob me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
Psalm 139:1-18

This morning, Brooke and I heard our baby's heartbeat. It was the most beautiful sound I've ever heard. The rhythm of that new life brought me to such sweet worship. I'm preaching on this Psalm this upcoming Wednesday, and I imagine that I won't get through it all without crying. I'm not a person that normally cries. However, hearing the majestic heartbeat of a baby that months ago wasn't anywhere near our lives, served as a gentle reminder of the Everlasting God...(El Olam)... What a Wonderful Maker... I'm drawn to sing songs such as this:

You spread out the skies over empty space Said "let there be light"Into a dark and formless world Your light was born

You spread out Your arms over empty hearts Said "let there be light"Into a dark and hopeless world Your Son was born

You made the world and saw that it was good You sent Your only son for You are good What a wonderful Maker What a wonderful Savior How majestic Your whispers And how humble Your love With a strength like no other And the heart of a Father How majestic Your whispers What a wonderful God

No eye has fully seen, how beautiful the cross And we have only heard The faintest whispers of how great You are

We indeed worship the Wonderful Maker...

Psalm 139 has poured into me such sweet thoughts just lately. I see in God the following; His perfect knowledge (v.1-6), His everlasting presence (v.7-12), and His power in creating humanity (v.13-18). I see so many reasons to praise His glorious name. Think about it with me for just a moment; the heart that is beating in your chest right now was given to you simply by His perfect weaving (v.13). As a living child of His, I indeed join the Psalmist when he writes of praising Him out of fear and wonder (v.14). These thoughts have recently been resurrected in my mind due to the creative work of my baby. I realize life is unknown when it comes to future steps...I realize anything can happen in this fallen world...but for just today, I want to enjoy Him forever by praising Him; my Wonderful Maker...

Join me. Feel your heartbeat. Worship Him for the rhythm He majestically gives to you.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Celebration of God's handiwork

2009-07-31T08:59:00.000-07:00

In case the news hasn't spread to you yet, Brooke and I are expecting a baby! As of tomorrow, she will be 12 weeks pregnant already. We had the sweet joy of sharing our news with our church family this past Wednesday night as well as various family and friends in the weeks prior. We are both excited and speechless at the same time. It's hard to imagine what my life will be like when jellybean is born (we've named the baby "jellybean" because we don't know the gender yet). I invite you to pray with me before this baby arrives to this world. The first thoughts that may come to your mind are: health, safety, beauty, etc. However, I want you to know that my greatest concern is the salvation of my baby.

Ever since I found out about jellybean, I have not ceased to pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17), for his/her salvation. I place my full focus on God's redeeming work in His saving grace. When I observe people that place their stakes on their own work or view of salvation, I see cracks in the foundation. In case you don't know this...please allow me to share with you that you need God. I need God. Brooke needs God. My prayer is for my baby to grow up with the understanding that he/she needs God. If anyone believes they don't need God...or even they don't want God, chances are, they don't know God. After reading Ephesians 1 recently, I've placed my full attention on God's predestined adoption of my baby.

For more info on the above paragraph, read the conversation Jesus had with Nicodemus in John 3...good stuff!

I have pondered many thoughts this week. Will my baby be a preacher of the Gospel? Will my baby be a global missionary? Will my baby long to be a spiritual leader? Will my baby desire God above all the evil pleasures of this fallen world? Will my baby grow as beautiful as her mom? Will my baby love to sit down with me in the evenings and worship our great King in His marvelous Scriptures? I have so many questions...But again, my greatest desire is for my gracious Father in Heaven to save my child by His amazing grace.

Please pray. Please join me in rejoicing. Please realize that apart from the grace of the cross, you and I would be under His judgment. Praise be to the Father, who crushed His Son instead of us...and giving us the gift of adoption! Through Jesus Christ, we have the sweet beauty of being born again in His wonderful, eternal family.

I'M A DAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Do you long for God?

2009-07-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

As the deer pants for the water brooks,So my soul pants for You, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God;When shall I come and appear before God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night,While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 4 These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me.For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God,With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. 5 Why are you in despair, O my soul?And why have you become disturbed within me?Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence. 6 O my God, my soul is in despair within me;Therefore I remember You from the land of the Jordan And the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls;All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me. 8 The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime;And His song will be with me in the night,A prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will say to God my rock, “Why have You forgotten me?Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” 10 As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries revile me,While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 11 Why are you in despair, O my soul?And why have you become disturbed within me?Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,The help of my countenance and my God.
Psalm 42

In this rich Psalm, we see from the writer the great need to long for God. I wonder if people in churches today truly long for God? Do you long for God? Lets take a look at just one word in the 11 verses here.

Psalm 42:1 is beautifully stated, "As a deer longs for streams of water, so I long for You, God." I'm using the Holman Christian Standard version with this verse because I agree with their wording. The word `arag (aw-rag'), meaning to long for -- cry, pant, is used. This animal is obviously on a tired journey that is in desperate need for refreshment. His desire for satisfaction is found in the fact that his cry is heard, his panting is refreshed, his longing is found. It's not a once a week idea. I believe this is a daily longing for survival. We even see in verse 2 that the writer so boldly states, "I thirst for God, the Living God." What do you thirst for? What do you long for?

I see much complacency today in the life of believers. It seems that we have sold a Gospel that gives heaven but not God. We offer the riches of heaven rather than the riches of God alone. This deer wasn't looking for a place that contains water... this deer was looking for water. I see such a beautiful connection to what we are faced with today. I'm about to say something that may shock you...but please read it a few times and allow it to process. Are you ready? Here it goes. If you don't want God, if you don't long for God, if you don't cry out and pant for God; than you will not experience the riches of heaven. Does the deer want the location or the substance? Does the deer want the location or the need?

My challenge for you today is to live each step with a need and longing for God. Treasure Him and praise Him for the riches of His grace found through Christ (read Ephesians...all of it). Cry out to Him for mercy and steadfast love if depression is near (look at Psalm 42:6). Praise Him for the love that He sends (look at Psalm 42:8). As you need water to satisfy your thirst, you need living water to satisfy your eternal longing.

I pray today you will plunge into Emmanuel's blood, taste His living water, and enjoy the gift of His Father...forever. May your longing be satisfied today.

From one whose longing has arrived by the grace of God

Singing the Gospel

2009-07-29T09:52:00.001-07:00

I just finished an excellent book entitled, Living the Cross Centered Life, by C.J. Mahoney. In the book, Mahoney beautifully writes about the importance of living for the sake of the Gospel. The Cross centered life takes away our natural tendency to look at ourselves in our view, but rather rejoice in the view of Grace from our Father. Instead of looking at us as guilty and condemned in His sight, through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, we are viewed as innocent children. It's a beautiful book that I highly recommend you to get. It won't take but a few hours to read all of it. Enjoy it, and make sure you have tissues near.

One point in that book that really hit home to me was found in the last chapter. Mahoney challenges the reader to "sing the Gospel." Since then, I've gone back to my itunes account and set up a playlist entitled, "songs about the Gospel." I have the music play nonstop while I'm working. Such beautiful songs have led me to:

Rejoice in the wonders of God, amazed by Jesus the Nazarene
The joy of knowing I will one day rise when He calls my name!
Knowing that nothing can save my, nothing but the blood of my Savior
Each day, I need to cling to the cross more
Celebrating the fact that Jesus came to my rescue
I can sit in silence in the joy of my Wonderful King
The Beautiful blood leads me to experience the wonderful flow of God's mercy
and so on....

This verse in particular helps me understand the joy of singing the Gospel. Paul writes, "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:16

That's my hope for you today. Sing the Gospel. Sing the good news that the Savior of the world has come to rescue you from the wrath of the Holy God that you and I have offended. Praise His Name that He has taken the wrath upon Himself and giving you the joy of His perfect righteousness (right standing) to God! The tomb is empty! Death no longer has mastery over us! Death is only our gain as we get to be with God! (Phil 1:21).

Sing the Gospel. I promise you that songs of the Gospel will be more powerful than any other song you will ever hear. May we not sing to ourselves or to each other...may we sing and boast in the only One that is mighty to save.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Stars of Glory

2009-07-26T16:48:00.000-07:00

I just returned home after a long, but wonderful Sunday with my church family. I love coming home with such joy after spending the day studying the Scriptures and rejoicing in the grace of our Lord, with my family. There is just something that stirs within my soul that words cannot articulate when it comes to sweet fellowship with the bride. I sincerely hope that you are involved in a local church body. I hope you don't waste your days here for your own selfishness rather than growing in likeness of Christ, the Living Stone; who reveals Himself so beautifully within the living stones...(Just read 1 Peter 2). When the bride is the bride from the Bible, than true worship occurs. When the bride offends the Gospel and makes a mockery of the holiness of God... than true heresy occurs. Which one do you prefer?

Anyways, random; I know. I apologize. Now onto what I really wanted to share...

Tonight at the Answers Academy class, we discussed the beauty and glory of God found in astronomy. Ever look up at the sky at night and ponder thoughts of God's beauty found in stars that you cannot fully see? Here are some passages that deal with His glory found in stars:

1. Genesis 1:16...God made the two great lights - the greater light to have dominion over the day and the lesser light to have dominion over the night-as well as the stars.

2. Psalm 8:3...When I observe Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you set in place,

3. Matthew 2:2...For we saw His star in the east...and have home to worship Him.

4. Philippians 2:15...(we are called, my adding for the context), children of God who are faultless in a crooked and perverted generation, among whom you shine like stars in the world.

5. And of course one of my favorites.. the reference to Christ in Revelation 22:16, The root and the offspring of David, the Bright Morning Star

So, it begs the question; why are stars mentioned in these contexts? I look in these passages and see a beautiful parallel, perhaps. God spoke all into existence, through His Word. We see His creation shining His beauty, His glory, which eventually led to the first recorded worshippers of Jesus (other than His earthly family). We see that we are labeled as stars that shine in a dark and perverted world that needs His marvelous light (see also 1 Peter 2:9). We see Christ labeled as the BRIGHT MORNING STAR, which gives the gift of a new day, the gift of life and light, the joy of a promise fulfilled by the grace of our Wonderful Maker. Stars shine the glory of God for in them, we are reminded of how small we are, but yet privileged to be called His adopted sons (see John 1:12). WHAT GRACE AND GLORY! Our Father has given us the gift of His pardon, the passing of His judgment onto His Son, and gives us His glory...the gift of Himself! We are now looked at (as originally created in our earthly parents; Adam and Eve), as VERY GOOD... why? Because the Bright and Morning Star; King Jesus, shines in us! Our sin for His righteousness. Our darkness for His light. Our brokenness for His beauty.

I like the words of this song:

you should see the stars tonight how they shimmer shine so bright against the black they look so white comin down from such a height to reach me now, reach me now

you should see the moon in the flight cuttin cross the misty night softly dancin in sunshine reflections of this light reach me now, you reach me now

and how could such a thing shine its light on me and make everything beautiful again

and you should feel the sun in the spring comin out after a rain suddenly all is green sunshine on everything i can feel it now, i feel you now

and how could such a thing shine its light on me and make everything beautiful and you should hear the angels sing all gathered round their king more beautiful than you could dream i've been quietly listening you can hear 'em now, i hear em now

and how could such a king shine His light on me and make everything beautiful and i wanna shine i wanna be light i wanna tell you it'll be alright and i wanna shine and i wanna fly just to tell you now it'll be alright, it'll be alright it'll be alright.

cus i got nothing of my own to give to you but this light that shines on me shines on you and makes everything beautiful, again.it'll be alright, it'll be alright.
Stars by David Crowder

May His gracious Spirit draw you today to shine His beautiful light to those that are perishing in the dark. May you shine brilliantly as one of His countless stars (see Genesis 22:17).

Soli Deo Gloria!

His Help and His Rescue

2009-07-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

I waited patiently for the LORD;And He inclined to me and heard my cry. He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;Many will see and fear And will trust in the LORD. How blessed is the man who has made the LORD his trust,And has not turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood. Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which You have done,And Your thoughts toward us;There is none to compare with You.If I would declare and speak of them,They would be too numerous to count. Sacrifice and meal offering You have not desired;My ears You have opened;Burnt offering and sin offering You have not required. Then I said, “Behold, I come;In the scroll of the book it is written of me. I delight to do Your will, O my God;Your Law is within my heart.” I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation;Behold, I will not restrain my lips,O LORD, You know. I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart;I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation;I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth from the great congregation. You, O LORD, will not withhold Your compassion from me;Your lovingkindness and Your truth will continually preserve me. For evils beyond number have surrounded me;My iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to see;They are more numerous than the hairs of my head,And my heart has failed me. Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me;Make haste, O LORD, to help me. Let those be ashamed and humiliated together Who seek my life to destroy it;Let those be turned back and dishonored Who delight in my hurt. Let those be appalled because of their shame Who say to me, “Aha, aha!” Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You;Let those who love Your salvation say continually,“The LORD be magnified!” Since I am afflicted and needy,Let the Lord be mindful of me.You are my help and my deliverer;Do not delay, O my God.
-Psalm 40

This beautiful Psalm is easily one of my favorites in the entire collection. I love the division it contains, focusing on 2 major sections: thanksgiving for the Lord’s history of His provision, and a refreshing reliance on His current mercy. In other words, the writer boasts in how through patience and resting in God’s presence, he has found comfort in His sweet rescue. The writer then continues on with the idea that he will continue to trust and give His allegiance to the majesty of YHVH.
Think with me for a moment about a time in your life in which you’ve discovered the gracious hand of the Lord rescuing you from trial or tribulation. Think with me of the pain you endured but then the victory you discovered in the end. We often times look at suffering in a sense of a momentary discomfort and a blinded awareness of His control. However, when we look at the beauty He gives us in waiting patiently for Him and seeking His pleasure, we in turn receive the greatest news of all; His mercy and grace!
Lately, I’ve been reading Job. It’s amazing to me that we read this book with the lens of the outcome. We know that in the end, Job will be blessed richly for His patience and waiting in the Lord’s presence. Even with lousy advice from friends and a hurt spouse, Job perseveres. However, one thing that has challenged me is the understanding that Job doesn’t know the outcome at the present time. His patience in suffering and joy in the Lord sustains him during difficult days. What faith! What trust and satisfaction he presents as a testimony to us!
Do you wait patiently today? Do you cling to His rescue? Do you rejoice in the new song He puts in your mouth daily (Psalm 40:3)? Do you make Him your trust (Psalm 40:4), your subject to proclaim (Psalm 40:5), your delight in worship (Psalm 40:16)? I want to encourage you to read all 17 verses today of Psalm 40 and rejoice in the Lord, your help and your deliverer.

Soli Deo Gloria!

The Blessing of His Word

2009-07-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

James 1:25, "But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does"

I have a question for you on this rare Summer cool evening; how important is the Word to you? This afternoon, I had the sweet privilege of glancing through the law (the first 5 books of the OT) with my dear friend Canyon. After our time together, I was walking out to my car when my friend Tina stopped me with this statement, "you've challenged me study and memorize more Scripture." I got into my car and drove home. Her statement is still on my mind. Why do we need to study the Word? Why would anyone want to memorize it? A book that has tough passages to understand and too many little books to choose from (66 total)...what would prompt anyone to study it? I believe the answer is found in the blessing that it offers. My friend has a passion for His Word and uses that passion to teach children. She is a hero of the faith for many.

Jesus spoke these words many years ago, "Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth" (John 17:17). I believe what He was saying then draws us to study now. His half brother wrote these words that I began this post with. Lets take a glance at them together... shall we?

"one who looks intently on the law" - this statement is derived from the word, parakupto par-ak-oop'-to, which translates: to bend beside, i.e. lean over (so as to peer within) -- look (into), stoop down, etc. I look at this with an understanding of humility. We empty ourselves, our time, our own desire to dictate time when we study His Word diligently. I believe our passion is what drives our use of time. Anyone who loves baseball will naturally take time to study all the stats of each player and travel to as many stadiums as possible. There isn't anything wrong in that in of itself, but if that weighs more value in one's soul over His good Word, then where does the heart rest? Or if a mom or dad will travel the country for their child's team, missing church on many Sundays, and spending countless hours for the sport over the study of His good Word, where is the priority? I believe those that desire more of His goodness daily will take upon themselves an attitude of bending beside, leaning over, into, stooping down to taste of His greatness (Psalm 34:8). Where does your soul rest? Begin with Genesis. Enjoy the journey. Be captivated by His glory. Praise Him for His grace. Live as His adopted.

"abides by it" - parameno par-am-en'-o the idea is: to stay near, i.e. remain (literally, tarry; or figuratively, be permanent, persevere) -- abide, continue, etc. Just studying and memorizing the Word doesn't sanctify; one must abide in it. This idea goes well with John 15. We must understand the purpose behind the Word. We were given it to understand the true nature of God Almighty and to be drawn daily in His likeness. Since I believe all scripture was given to us by Him (2 tim 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21), then the privilege we have to abide in it shows us more of His amazing grace! What power and beauty found in the riches of His Word. Read Psalm 119. All 176 verses remind us to abide in His Word, to enjoy His truth, and to proclaim His true character. What do you abide in? What do you continue to study or pursue? If it is outside His good word, I encourage you to repent and rest in His promises. Check out Psalm 42.

The forgetful hearer and effectual doer...that makes sense to me. I hope it does to you. You don't just stare at a teacher while he gives a lesson and then try on your own to do what he teaches...unless you are open to learning the subject, you will fail in your own attempt to conjure its meaning.

Finally, we have this part, "this man will be blessed in what he does." I like this part. We see the word, makarios mak-ar'-ee-os, meaning: supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off -- blessed, happy(-ier). Who wouldn't want this?!! If we are given the promise of His fortune, His happiness, His supreme blessing...then our prompting to study is as easy as trying to convince a middle school boy to drink a monster drink. The blessing we receive is the gift of Himself. When we enjoy Him in His Word, then He pours upon us....Him. James 4:8. Check that passage out. Apart from His good word, the pleasures of this world only add more decay inside our white washed bodies.

So my friend, my encouragement to you today is to intently look at His Word and allow His truth to abide sweetly in you. I close with what Gutenberg (the inventor of the printing press) said about the Word:

"Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streams, the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of men! Through it , God will spread His Word. A spring of truth shall flow from it: like a new star it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a light heretofore unknown to shine amongst men."

Good News

2009-07-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

I think if I were to poll 10 random people, 10 out of 10 would say that they would enjoy hearing good news. All of us are prone to what good in our lives, in one way or another. As I wrote a few days ago about the bad news all of us have inherited thanks to our parents (Adam and Eve), naturally, we want to hear about the good news. If you are like me, I want the bad news first...but want to end on the good news. So, on this beautiful Saturday in Acworth, I'd like to submit to you the good news...

We get the definition of the Gospel from the idea of, "good news." euaggelion (yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on) which can translate: a good message, i.e. the gospel -- gospel. Mark 1:1 begins with this beautiful word in the original language. Jesus is good news. His life, His obedience to the Father, His willingness to absorb the Father's wrath off of us...and His resurrection from the grave is all the Gospel. The good news that I submit to you today is that through Jesus, we are given the gift of a legal right, a reception of His grace and forgiveness, the beauty of His adoption, and the joy of His presence for all eternity.

Simeon waited to see Jesus for he knew of the Gospel. Read Luke 2:30. John the Baptist declared the Gospel when he saw Christ, read John 1:29. John outran Peter to the empty tomb because of the Gospel, read John 20. The sweet joy of Christ is the good news of His atonement for us. Want to hear good news today? Repent (turn away from) your sins (to break God's perfect law), and turn to His goodness thru His Son.

The gospel gives us a new heart (2 Corinthians 5:17). The gospel gives us a new birth (John 3). The Gospel gives us transformation (Romans 12:2). The gospel gives us the proper way to live (1 Peter 1:15). The gospel gives us something to talk about (Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47). The gospel is good news for in it, we are given life (John 10:10), and everlasting joy (John 3:16).

Do you have this good news? Do you realize that according to His Holy Word, rejection of His Son results in the reception of His wrath? (see John 3:36). Repent and believe in the Gospel today (Acts 3:19, 8:22). Enjoy Him forever. The tomb is empty! That's good news.

His Provision handles our enemies

2009-07-17T05:39:00.000-07:00

Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me;Fight against those who fight against me. Take hold of buckler and shield And rise up for my help. Draw also the spear and the battle-axe to meet those who pursue me;Say to my soul, “I am your salvation.” Let those be ashamed and dishonored who seek my life;Let those be turned back and humiliated who devise evil against me. Let them be like chaff before the wind,With the angel of the LORD driving them on. Let their way be dark and slippery,With the angel of the LORD pursuing them. For without cause they hid their net for me;Without cause they dug a pit for my soul. Let destruction come upon him unawares,And let the net which he hid catch himself;Into that very destruction let him fall. And my soul shall rejoice in the LORD;It shall exult in His salvation. All my bones will say, “LORD, who is like You,Who delivers the afflicted from him who is too strong for him,And the afflicted and the needy from him who robs him?” Malicious witnesses rise up;They ask me of things that I do not know. They repay me evil for good,To the bereavement of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth;I humbled my soul with fasting,And my prayer kept returning to my bosom. I went about as though it were my friend or brother;I bowed down mourning, as one who sorrows for a mother. But at my stumbling they rejoiced and gathered themselves together;The smiters whom I did not know gathered together against me,They slandered me without ceasing. Like godless jesters at a feast,They gnashed at me with their teeth. Lord, how long will You look on?Rescue my soul from their ravages,My only life from the lions. I will give You thanks in the great congregation;I will praise You among a mighty throng. Do not let those who are wrongfully my enemies rejoice over me;Nor let those who hate me without cause wink maliciously. For they do not speak peace,But they devise deceitful words against those who are quiet in the land. They opened their mouth wide against me;They said, “Aha, aha, our eyes have seen it!” You have seen it, O LORD, do not keep silent;O Lord, do not be far from me. Stir up Yourself, and awake to my right And to my cause, my God and my Lord. Judge me, O LORD my God, according to Your righteousness,And do not let them rejoice over me. Do not let them say in their heart, “Aha, our desire!”Do not let them say, “We have swallowed him up!” Let those be ashamed and humiliated altogether who rejoice at my distress;Let those be clothed with shame and dishonor who magnify themselves over me. 2Let them shout for joy and rejoice, who favor my vindication;And let them say continually, “The LORD be magnified,Who delights in the prosperity of His servant.” And my tongue shall declare Your righteousness And Your praise all day long. Psalm 35

I love the faithfulness of God when it comes to His provision over His redeemed. In the 28 verses of this powerful Psalm, we can learn that in His care, we can seek Him during times of persecution and harm from our enemies. I’m sure if we were to examine our lives, we can see that there are some people that just don’t like us. I’ve been at Summit now for close to 4 years. In that short time, I’ve observed some that just don’t like me. It happens. Ministry and faithfulness to the Lord doesn’t always bring fantasy happiness. Often times, when we are faithful to His Word and enjoying His presence, there will be some that oppose. I invite you to take time to read what Jesus spoke of this matter in the greatest sermon ever preached (Matthew 5-7).

So..what can we gather from this rich text today? I believe what we can gather is the privilege of faithful prayers. When we know of others in our lives that oppose us, dislike us, and make efforts to discredit us, our response should be immersed in prayer. Our flesh can be an ugly monster. Our natural tendency (given to us from earthly parents…Romans 5:12), is to lash out and protect our claimed territory. However, I see in this text the importance to surrender our rights of defense to the Holy One that can mightily defend. The Psalmist begins in the first verse with a cry for the Lord to fight the battle…not the writer. What joy and assurance to know that we don’t have to put the weight of opposition on our shoulders! We can trust in His provision and care in leading us to be wise in any given situation. Anyone opposing you or attacking you today? Have you given the right to respond over to the Lord?

The last part of this rich Psalm is how I want to close this morning. “Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy and be glad and say evermore, GREAT is the Lord, who delights in the welfare of His servant! Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness and of your praise all the day long” (Psalm 35:27-28). What glory and riches! It ties in so well with what our Savior told us in Matthew 5:16…about letting our light shine for the glory of the Father. I believe in our passion to find satisfaction in God above all the evil pleasures of this world, the result can naturally be a righteousness in us that leads to praises all day long for His great name. I’d marry Matthew 5 with James 3. Take time to see how even the words of your mouth can be a testimony today to the expanding of corporate worship here in this world. May all that comes out of our mouths today not be in defense to accusations or attack, but may they tell of the righteousness of our great Lord.

Bad News....

2009-07-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I will begin today a short, 2 part blog about the ugliness of sin (bad news) and the grace of salvation through the atoning death of Christ (good news). If you come to church this Sunday, you will hear these 2 blogs preached together in the sermon.

Has anyone ever approached you and informed you of this, "I have good news and bad news...which one do you want to hear first"? If you are like me, I want to hear the bad news first, so that the good news will be more tolerable. If I were to approach you with this statement, and only told you of the good news, then how could you truly appreciate if if you don't know the bad news? OR, if I told you the bad news...then would you have any reason to rejoice without hearing the good news? I heard this joke one time in my life that has stuck with me for a short while (you can give a grace laugh, I don't mind).

A guy walks into the doctor's office and is given the results of his recent exam. The doctor says, "I have good news and bad news for you. The bad news is that you will not be alive next month...the good news is that you will have a disease named after you!"

That probably isn't good news at all. My friend, I have good news for you...but first I must tell you of the bad news. Before I give you some Scripture, I must tell you of a conversation I had today with a lady who called the church office. Through her tears, she explained to me the situation (the pastor and other ministers were gone...she was stuck with me). She recently committed adultery, lied about it, and woke up today as a guilty sinner in need of forgiveness from God and her husband. For 25 minutes, I spoke to her about the depravity of man and the need for grace. We dove into passages such as 2 Samuel 11-13, Psalm 51, John 4, Ephesians 2, and others. Please pray for her as she now tries to seek the Spirit's power in bringing her broken family back together.

Why would this be such a big deal? Why wouldn't she be able to wake up and decide on her own that she needed another lover? The reason why countless stories such as this come up in lens of hurt, pain, and evil...is the nature of sin! We have this nature in us. Take a moment with me and look at the history of sin:

"but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." - Genesis 2:17

"When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate." - Genesis 3:6

The result..... the bad news...

"Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loin coverings." - Genesis 3:7

"For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not" - Romans 7:18

"Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned" - Romans 5:12

"For all of us have become like one who is unclean, And all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment; And all of us wither like a leaf, And our iniquities, like the wind, take us away." - Isaiah 64:6

"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:23

"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." - John 3:36

Please come Sunday to hear more about the bad news. We are all guilty sinners (James 2:10). Anytime we want to do our word and not follow His perfect Word, we sin. our parents (Adam and Eve) wanted to find good in their own willful decision to find pleasure in something contrary to God's law, His Word. The result is what spreads daily. The result is why I get phone calls like I got today. The result is why I'm embarrassed to look at some of my student's facebook pages. The result is why dads in my church don't lead, moms don't nurture, and their children rebel. The result of sin can range from poor teaching in the class rooms to secret, habitual sins that will one day split the entire family. The result is self righteousness and philosophies that are centered around the self.

We have bad news. We have offended the Holy God, the great I AM, that gave us the gift of our heart beating in our chest. We need a remedy... we need good news.

May we be faithful to the Scriptures and tell others first about the bad news, for without it, how will they rejoice in the good news?

A New Song Daily

2009-07-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've sat down and blogged. I miss communicating to you the riches of God's grace and the joy of my journey in finding my satisfaction in Him alone daily. In case you are new to my blog and don't know this about me, I am a youth minister at a church north of Atlanta. Summers are the busiest times for many youth ministers. We get our students for almost 2 months before their busy schedules pick up with school. During this time, many of us decide to be crazy and plan camps, mission trips, and other various elements of ministry to keep their attention. I just got back from a wonderful mission trip to Bainbridge, GA. 19 students and a few adults made up the crew that came with me (along with several families that gave us a total of around 45ish??). Our job was simple in training and hard in application. We were trained to hang Sheetrock and then we applied that wonderful training for close to 5 days of hard work. I'm so encouraged by the work ethics my students and adults put in. I'm refreshed by their teamwork. This was my 3rd year of going on trips like this in which we get to help build churches. What a joy. It's good to be home.

In all my traveling (from Virginia to California, to Kentucky, Ohio, and back to Georgia), I've been so swept away by the daily grace of God Almighty. This verse in particular has spoken deeply to my soul, "He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many will see and fear And will trust in the LORD." (Psalm 40:3). Please permit me to break down to you why this verse truly paints a perfect picture to how gracious our Lord truly is.

Each morning, the Lord has blessed me with the delicious aroma of His presence. I believe His Word is sweet, as honey dripping off of the comb. When I read His Word, journal praises to His name, and meditate on His truths I've gained, I walk away with a new song in my mouth. I can't really say its something that is special or rewarding...I find it to be more of a necessity to live. Sleeping on air mattresses for 4-5 hours a night, with noisy teenage boys who would rather chat like little girls than sleep...and waking up to hang 5/8 sheet rocks on the ceiling can drain me if I'm not careful. Camp, in its full speed can drain me. Preaching for 3 straight days in a state that is away from home can tire my body. So much can be said here right now in the complaint department... for your sake, I'll quit. Whats the point? I need Him daily to wake me up, give strength to my bones to do the work that He's called me to do.

This verse has refreshed my soul and has given me a new song, a new spring of life daily; to proclaim unspeakable praises to His name. Each morning, I'm awakened to His mighty presence. I'm starting to move away from the term, "quiet time" to "His time." My life is dependant on His grace, His presence, His time. The result always is... a new song in my mouth. I get to read such powerful books such as Esther, and I get to pause and praise Him with a song of joy as I see His promise to deliver His people from harm. I'm currently reading a book called, "Knowing God" by J.I. Packer. In 4 chapters, I'm drawn to the conclusion that God is worth the daily pursuit of knowing...and I will never write as good as Packer. I meet so many people that find little to no reasons to praising God. It seems that many of us are prone to wait for seasons to praise, or sorrowful moments to pray prayers of petition. Please allow me to give you this challenge; begin each day with, "His time." Read Psalm 40 and understand what the Psalmist was communicating. The infinite result of Him putting a new song in us is the incorruptible praises of countless voices that fear and trust in Him.

Have "His time." May He graciously put in you a new song daily.

Soli Deo Gloria.

Post Camp, All Hail our Mighty King

2009-06-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

2009 Camp is in the books. What a week it was. I wanted to write posts day to day, but was not able to get away. I'm sitting here this morning, enjoying a nice cup of coffee in Yorktown, VA. I love it here. It tends to be the place for me to get away for refreshment. However, on this particular trip, I don't need to be refreshed as much as I need time to celebrate what the Almighty did last week at camp. He is glorious and truly worthy to be praised! (check out Psalm 19, today...wow.)

Camp was incredible. It was the best experience I've had with my students at Summit. For close to 6 days, I witnessed the Spirit's drawing of genuine fellowship among the young bride of Summit. Each night, I observed friendship circles broken and enlarged due to students reaching out to one another. Seniors talking with 6th graders. Popular students talking with the outcasts. Walls torn down. It brought pictures of Jesus, when He walked the earth and dined with sinners. The religious leaders couldn't stand it. However, repentance was given, salvation was granted, and lives were transformed. I believe at camp, souls were drawn to the kingdom. I'll give you one story:

A freshman boy pulled me aside on the last night and wanted to talk. We stepped outside and began what was to be a glorious conversation. This 9th grader admitted that he was a sinner in desperate need of our Savior's saving grace. I asked him a few questions about his life (to make sure he understood what sin truly was in the sight of the Holy One). After receiving satisfying answers, he asked if we could pray. I don't like to pray and have people repeat my words. I don't see that as a genuine conversion. I see that as nothing more than an "easy way out." This boy bowed his head, and prayed a beautiful prayer of confession, repentance, and petition for forgiveness...prayer to the King. He lifted his head, smiled at me, and walked away...forever changed. What a Savior.

I'd love to see my church experience times like I saw this past week. I often feel that we get so busy in doing things, planning things, organizing things, writing rules about things, etc... that we neglect to have times of corporate worship, fellowship, and true discipleship. I know I'm speaking as a youth minister that just organized and led the trip, but I feel a longing in my heart for my church, and other churches to have, "camp." I use this word very carefully. I don't mean to have an emotional experience. I mean to have a time, a revival of the soul in which the Holy Spirt draws the bride to beautiful radiance. I'm talking about us as children of the Living God (John 1:12), to step outside of our own comforts for the purpose of declaring and rejoicing in His Kingdom being spread on this earth. I'm still tired today, but it was well worth the work. I pray that my students will remain true to the confessions and promises they made this past week.

Camp reminded me of the blessing I have in my adult leaders. I love them. I had 10 of the best adult Bible study leaders that any youth minister could ask for. They were faithful to the Word, and to their opportunities to build relationships with students. Dan, Carson, Rebecca, Paige, Donny, Brad, Vicki, Lee, Laurie, Bruce, and Canyon... I love you guys. Thank you for the sacrifice and faithfulness you put it in for teaching the perfect Word of our King this past week.

Camp opened my eyes and attention to the gifts our students have. The praise band put in more than 20 hours of work and preparation time before camp even started. Everyday, the Spirit used them to bring us to the throne room in musical worship. I'm grateful for them and the way I see them desire Christ above any pleasures of this world.

Jon Gillis, what a friend. I'm grateful for the week I was blessed to have with him. I pray our Lord will continue to lead him, Rachel, and Bailey for His Glory. The messages were truly guided by the Spirit. Students responded. Christ was glorified.

You can have a "camp" experience everyday in the Word. I love it. This morning, I read 1 Thess 5, and was blown away. I can't wait for Brooke to get home from her walk so I can greet her with a holy kiss. Enjoy Him today, above the pleasures of this world. Part of what makes camp so much fun is that we get to leave the world behind and bond in a perfect gift of unity (Colossians 3:12-16). You can do that everyday by spending alone time with the King. Read Romans 12. Today. Enjoy the privilege of His presence.

Psalm 8

2009-06-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

I wrote this for the college ministry website, but felt led to share it with whomever (is that proper grammar? I'm tired and have given up on the grammar game tonight...I aint skeered)

Psalm 8.

Verse 1, 9 – There is Glory in His Name
Look with me at verse 1 and verse 9. Have you ever wondered about the power and glory in His name alone? Does it ever bother you when people around you use His name in vain? The bible makes it clear in Exodus 20:7 that taking His name in vain is breaking one of the 10 commandments. In John 18:4-6, Jesus Christ is arrested by the mob. In John’s account, there is a particular story that really jumped out to me the first time I read it. Upon arrival that night, they asked the whereabouts of our Savior. When Jesus answered their request by stating His name, they fell to the ground. What power! What glory! There is indeed glory in His name! (For more information on the importance of His name, compare Exodus 3:14 to John 8:58).

Verse 2 – There is assurance in His glory in you, no matter your age or ability
In verse 2, you will see a beautiful verse that is actually quoted by our Savior in Matthew 21:16. I love this verse. God’s adopted children (John 1:12) can be viewed upon as weak and helpless in the world’s eyes (1 Corinthians 1:27), however His glory can shine out of the mouth of babes…revealing His majesty. I enjoy reading biographies. Recently, I read 2 biographies on one of my favorite preachers; C.H. Spurgeon. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Spurgeon preached over 600 times by the age of 19. Out of His mouth, the majesty of God’s Word was proclaimed!

Verses 3-4 – There is power in His creation
In these two verses, you will see the power of God in His creation. Some other verses that come to mind are: Psalm 89:11, 111:2, and 136:9. His power fund in His creation never ceases to amaze me. Does it amaze you? I’m reminded of the 9 brilliant symphonies that Beethoven composed. His careful work and attention, even in the midst of trials, has brought joy to many people even centuries after his death. What more of our God?!!! When we look at the stars in the night’s sky, we can understand more of what Job 38:4-11 was teaching us! Who are we in comparison to the power of God and His creation? Yet in His grace, He has given us an abundance of His steadfast love (Romans 5, Ephesians 1:7, 1 John 4); what a Savior.

Verses 5-8 – There is responsibility in our role
Finally, I conclude with this section of the passage. I’m reminded of our responsibility in creation. Hebrews 1:14 teaches us that even His angels serve our needs and minister to us. Psalm 139 reveals the love and affection He has lavished upon us in creation. Ephesians 2:10 shows us that in Christ, we have been set apart to be His, “workmanship.” I believe based on these few passages and many more, we must take our role seriously. Our responsibility should always be primarily on preaching the glorious Gospel of our Lord and Savior. The joy of our responsibility is the fact that every day, we tell this fallen world that our satisfaction is in Him alone, for He is our Creator, Lord, Father; the Godhead 3 in 1. May our lips ( Mark 16:15 James 3:9-12) and our walk (Galatians 5:25), bring Him glory.

Still Captivated by His Grace

2009-06-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

The title of this post really sums up well what God has done this week. I am captivated by His grace. I am captivated by His glory. It seems that in my moments of weakness and when I lose certain glimpses of hope for what He will do, He does. I wonder...why would He shower such marvelous grace in times of unknown? I believe His glory is at stake, His Word is true, and His promises will be fulfilled. Please permit me to explain further...

On Monday, I drove home before teaching Colossians 2 at the park, defeated and unsure of what to expect for the rest of the week. My aunt was injured in a car accident, I lost a Sunday School teacher (not by death, just resignation), and I discovered we were about $3,000 in the hole for next week's camp. I drove home with much sadness and suffering as I was unsure of how the rest of the week was going to work. Last night, in His amazing provision and perfect sovereignty, He displayed His grace.

It all started about 3:30pm. I was staring at the weather forecast and thinking to myself about the possibility of canceling the inflatables we rented for an event last night. After prayer, I felt led to the conclusion to cancel them. This saved the church close to $500. After cancelling the inflatables, the rain went away and the sun came out! I was flabbergasted! However, I knew it was the right decision. The night turned out well as more than 100 students came for a worship service and a night of one of their favorite games; "underground church." Nobody complained about the lack of inflatables... To God be the glory.

Before we played our games, one of my college students approached me with a question about writing a check for donations. I asked her, "to what purpose or account?" Her response; "to help with the student camp." She left the room and came back a few minutes later to ask me to step outside. As I stepped outside, she handed me a check... for $2,500.00! I worshipped. Never in my mind would I think God would provide a gift like that!!! Especially from a college student and her family. (This same student is raising money to go on a mission trip next month!)

After much emotion, I went about the rest of the evening...captivated by His grace. When I thought the situation was hopeless at times, His glory shined. When I thought the church would be in heavy debt, He paid the debt. The blood of His Son paid the debt of our souls...by His grace! (Check out Colossians 1-2). I'm still captivated today. Add this up with me: $500 + $2,500 = $3,000.00!

My Aunt went home from the hospital yesterday and is doing much better. Praise Him for His healing!

I found a willing teacher to step up and help with this class until we find a permanent substitute... (I should say, He found, I just observed...) Praise Him for His provision.

I'm reminded of this verse today, "Be still and know that I am God, I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted among the earth." (Psalm 46:10). I am still today. I am captivated by His grace. I praise Him for His provision. I invite you to read this and realize that in moments of unknown, our God is faithful to provide...for the glory of His Name. Read Psalm 46:10. Listen to this song, "God of this city" by Chris Tomlin...and fall on your knees in worship of His greatness.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

The Word in the Park

2009-06-08T18:24:00.001-07:00

I just got back from teaching Colossians 2 at the park. Tonight, about 30 students and adults gathered inside a pavilion to hear the Word. I love the summer nights. I love having time with my students outside the walls of my office and seeing the light of my Savior shine brilliantly in them. I love the fellowship and the hearts that are so eloquently "knit together" (Colossians 2:2); the evidence of the true church. Tonight, we had church in the park. It was beautiful and much needed after a tough day in the office. I know my God is faithful daily to provide to me His direction and His will, for His Spirit dwells within me (Romans 8:9). I know His love continues to shine through the darkness of this fallen world (1 Peter 2:9). I pray that if you've had a bad day or a rough day, His Word will satisfy your hunger and His church will rise up and knit your heart within hers. It's a beautiful testimony of His grace when the church rises up to worship and fellowship together; all because His glory dwells within. I loved having church in the park tonight.

Brooke quoted the first 2 chapters of Colossians tonight...all by memory. It was amazing and inspiring for my students and adult leaders to see. One college student approached her afterwards and asked, "why did you memorize all of that?" and, "what is the purpose of doing that?" Brooke was floored. So was I. I guess my answer is... WHY WOULDN'T YOU? If you have tasted and seen that He is good, His Word is eternal, and His grace is abounding; then it would be so natural to want to know Him more. I pray that particular student went home tonight with a hunger for His Word above any pleasure that this sinful world has to offer.

Read Psalm 119. Fall on your knees and worship Him for the gift and treasure of His very Word. Don't expect the church to do things for you. As I witnessed tonight in the park, the church shined her brilliant light as people walked by and heard the Word proclaimed. Don't wait for the church. May your heart be knit together with others, may you share in the same encouragement found within genuine fellowship, and may you join other adopted children of the Living God (John 1:12), to enjoy summer nights of being the bride.

I loved my night in the park. I love my youth group. I love my church. I love His Word...shared within knit hearts in the park. To quote John Piper, "don't waste your life," open the Word and begin the journey.

Psalm 5

2009-06-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Give ear to my words, O LORD,Consider my groaning. 2 Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God,For to You I pray. 3 In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice;In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. 4 For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness;No evil dwells with You. 5 The boastful shall not stand before Your eyes;You hate all who do iniquity. 6 You destroy those who speak falsehood;The LORD abhors the man of bloodshed and deceit. 7 But as for me, by Your abundant lovingkindness I will enter Your house,At Your holy temple I will bow in reverence for You. 8 O LORD, lead me in Your righteousness because of my foes;Make Your way straight before me. 9 There is nothing reliable in what they say;Their inward part is destruction itself.Their throat is an open grave;They flatter with their tongue. 10 Hold them guilty, O God;By their own devices let them fall!In the multitude of their transgressions thrust them out,For they are rebellious against You. 11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad,Let them ever sing for joy;And may You shelter them,That those who love Your name may exult in You. 12 For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD,You surround him with favor as with a shield

Psalm 5 is a rich passage, written by the hand of David, aided by the Holy Spirit; all for the glory of the Father. Take a moment and read all 12 verses. After reading these verses, I invite you to step into His presence in prayer. After praying, take a look at these verses with me.

The Psalm begins with an intentional cry for the Father’s attention. It’s not the same trite words that are prayed daily. These words are deep, rich, and full of longing for the Father’s attention. Now, compare verses 1-3 to your prayer. How did you begin? Where did you start. Most people start with the traditional, “Father, thank you for this day…” There is really nothing wrong with that, but do you come to Him with that statement, with a longing for Him to “Give ear to my words” (verse 1)? Or, do you beg for Him to, “Give attention to the sound of my cry” (verse 2)? I believe often times, if you are like me, I fall into a routine of prayer that often times loses its focus on the joy of wanting the Father’s attention. I love verse 3 and how it paints to us a beautiful picture of morning devotionals. I love how the Psalmist writes about how the Lord hears his voice in the morning. Did you notice that the Psalmist (on top of waking up early, I imagine) brings a sacrifice to the Lord…for the Lord to watch? I believe the heart behind that statement is the Psalmist wanting the Lord to find pleasure in His obedience. I believe that since Christ eliminated the sacrificial system, by being the ultimate sacrifice (read Hebrews 10), then we inherit the pleasure of the Father by coming to Him through the authority of His Son. We receive His pleasure, in the morning, by acknowledging the Son’s sacrifice and giving glory to the Father for giving us His graceful attention.

Verses 4-6 reveal to us the seriousness of sin in the sight of the Holy One. I find comfort in these verses, for I am constantly at odds with the sins of this world and how it pulls down people. This morning, I had coffee with a dear friend of mine. During our talk, I was reminded of the toughness of ministry and how demanding it is on the day to day scheme of life. However, I’m reminded that the errors and sins of others should not alter my life or make me sorrowful, for ultimately, those sins are done against the Father…not just against me. These verses should remind us as His adopted children, to confess daily; knowing how sin is viewed in the sight of the Holy Lord God Almighty.

Verses 7-8 are so inspiring. Here, we see the Psalmist write about how the steadfast love of God draws Him to enter into His presence, His house. I’m reminded of 1 John 4 in this passage; how “in this is love, not that we loved him, but that He loved us…”(1 John 4:10). I believe we often times forget the fact that our privilege of prayer, our privilege of worship is drawn by the steadfast love of our Father in Heaven.

Verses 9-10 again tie in with verses 4-6, in that we are so in love with the Lord and find our delight in Him, that what is sin to Him and evil in His sight, becomes evil in our sight. In other words, when I see someone take His name in vain, live by the flesh and His holiness is ridiculed; I can understand verse 10. Look here and compare it to Psalm 51:4. It states clearly that the sins were against…HIM. So, when someone spreads a rumor about me that isn’t necessary true, not only are they sinning against me…they are sinning against my Father in Heaven. I truly believe what makes His grace amazing is that in our wretchedness (because all of us sin), He pours His steadfast love over us (going back to verse 7). Isn’t He wonderful?

Verses 11-12 close out this Psalm so beautifully. I love verse 11. Compare this verse to Psalm 34:8. We find happiness, joy, etc…when we take refuge in Him. We can rejoice, truly, knowing that we want Him and nothing else. This leads us to receive His blessing. I believe those that Jesus was preaching to in Matthew 5:3-12 were given those beatitudes, because they were wanting to find their joy and rejoice in Christ alone. Blessings are poured out when God’s redeemed people rejoice in Him daily and long for His name to be known. We are covered with His righteousness alone, we are blessed by His steadfast love, we are privileged that He would give us His attention. Again, please allow me to ask: Isn’t He wonderful?

The Bouncy Ball Returns

2009-06-03T09:34:00.001-07:00

Brace yourself, this is story time. (I'm leaving out many parts, because it could be like how I preach....long winded)

Back in the Summer of 2002, I was going through a difficult season of ministry. I was only 20 at the time, and my position at my first church was going through difficult waters. I had students that were walking away from their faith, parents that were apathetic, and a pastor that was clueless on ministry in general (shortly after this summer, he was asked to leave). After a few nights of tough moments and hopeless efforts in planning and leading, my flesh came out hard. I watched my college friends go out on the mission field, work summer camps, and do "college type stuff." I was in a church of under 100 people, slaving away to lead students that just didnt' care...because their parents didn't care...because the pastor really didn't care. I remember one night, I laid down in my bed, with eyes saturated with tears, wanting to quit. In fact, I came pretty close to quitting that next day. That next day, I woke up to a life changing, Spirit filled conversation with a friend that has forever changed my view of ministry. Stephen Quinn, I love you my brother, and praise God for the husband and father you are.

Stephen walked into my apartment to say goodbye to me before making the summer trip home. His plans were to work a summer job and take summer classes...while preparing to buy an engagement ring for his precious bride; Tarah. The door knocks, I open, and the Sovereign Lord spoke through my friend.

Let me tell you a little about Stephen's job. At that time, he was a campus police officer. His job didn't really see alot of "action" (car chases, gun fights, etc.) Most of his job was centered around locking the different buildings on campus and telling the middle school aliens (middle schoolers that walked our campus that really didn't seem like they were from Earth) to go home. One night, there was an arrest made because of drugs..or something of that nature (we like to build this part of the story up, because if it was unpaid, illegal bike parking, that would be lame). Upon the arrest, his possessions were labeled. One of his possessions that night was a bouncy ball. It has the number "14" on it; kind of like a pool ball. After the school year ended, the ball remained at the station. When Stephen came over that day, he tossed me the ball and encouraged me to have a fun summer with my students. Of course, I aired my dirty laundry to him which resulted in him praying for me and walking to his car.

Later that night, I had to go to walmart (probaly for no reason, because there is nothing to do in Murray, KY when the school year ends...many window shop in walmart). When I was about to walk out my door, I noticed the bouncy ball sitting near the window. It seemed to be a silly idea, but I grabbed the ball and took it with me to walmart in order to bounce it around as I walked around...alone (because no girlfriend either...but now I have Brooke, so BOO YAH). That night, I found myself smiling for the first time in a while. The ball would roll out my of hand, down aisles, only to make senior adults mad as well as the children giggle. I bounced it back and forth that night and my stress, my worries, my fears were hidden. I found myself laughing at times. I went home, and went to bed with a smile that left my face for months prior to the evening.

The next morning, I woke up and brought the ball with me to the church office. It was funny, because the same thing happened; I smiled. I bounced it here and there, made up some games with some middle school boys that came by to see me, and went to bed with a smile. This process seemed to repeat itself for many days to follow.

The best part of this journey happened in my quiet time just shortly after the ball was given to me. I came across Matthew 6:19-24. In this passage, Jesus is talking about how money and treasures on the earth only bring destruction, not eternal security or joy. In verse 21, Jesus said something that really brought the purpose behind the ball in my hands, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." In this passage, I was brought to my knees in worship. For so long, I was trying to carry ministry on my back as a football coach was trying to force his hopeless team to win games. I was attempting to do the impossible; change people's lives and make bad things better. I realized that in my best efforts, I couldn't come close to doing ministry. Even though I do know that the passage is mainly talking about money, especially when you get to verse 24 (This note is for my dear brothers: Ben, Canyon, and Bruce, who know the Word well!), I believe the Spirit spoke to me in brilliant ways that day.

Years later, I connected the ball to Matthew 6:25-34. I love how we have passages that help us eliminate the sin of anxiety and to seek first HIS Kingom and HIS righteousness!

For the next 2-3 years, I gave away close to 6,000- 7,000 bouncy balls to students as I preached the Gospel and ministered to them at summer camps as well as my own church ministry.

However, something stranged has happened lately. For the past 3 1/2 years, I've tried to grow up too quickly without walking daily with the simple joy in Christ as I did as a 20 year old. Don't get me wrong, I walk daily in Him, by HIs Word, through His Spirit...but there have been many seasons lately in which I try in my own efforts to do ministry without completely relying on the Spirit to joyfully guide me to do the will of the Father. Yesterday, if you read my blog, you may have seen some comments I wrote about a bad day I had. Well, this morning, after spending great time with the Father, I brought a bouncy ball with me to the office. It is the original "14" ball. I took it with me to Starbucks as I encouraged a hurting student. Its sitting next to me right now, reminding me of the importance of walking daily with the joy and trust in the Lord God Almighty who will do whatever He wills, for His Glory and by His grace...using adopted children such as us to serve as instrumentalists in His vast orchestra.

Soli Deo Gloria!!!.....

Buy a bouncy ball and take it with you today. Read Matthew 6:19-34. Enjoy and treasure Him today.

Dave

First Night in Colossians

2009-06-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Last night, we started our journey through Colossians. It was a rich night of fellowship and worship as we allowed the Word of Truth to saturate our souls. I love studying the Scriptures and seeing with my own eyes the majesty of His Word. Brooke began the night by quoting Colossians 1 by memory. I was so blessed. 29 verses, straight from her soul that she spent the week meditating on. I want to encourage you...memorize the Word in passages! It brings the message to even deeper meanings. Colossians focuses on:

1. Paul's pastoral concern for the church.

2. The Supremacy of Christ

3. The importance of sound doctrine/attack against heresies

4. The joy of walking in a matter worthy of the Lord.

It cracks me up that when I'm in a deep pursuit of studying and meditating on God's Word, I'm attacked in many areas. For example, in the past 24 hours, I've observed these hits:

1. Our numbers are currently low. Last night, we had twice the amount of adults as we did students. (I'm not much of a numbers guy...but since today I'm a youth minister...why aren't they coming to hear the Word?)

2. I help lead a service at my church that is focused primarily on teaching good theology in music while introducing a "simple" or "contemporary" style. We've been doing this since January, and the only notes we've been given were negative...and negative in a sense that has nothing to do with worship, just selfish musical taste.

3. This morning, I caught word that our air conditioners are not working in the student center. It's getting hot, the money is low, and we have a need that impacts our weekly ministry.

So, in all of this, I have to make a decision. Am I going to allow it to ruin my day... or will I rejoice in the current suffering because of the majesty of the Savior that rescued me? I'm so blessed to have a wife that loves the Lord, and loves me. Brooke truly is a blessing and my greatest source of encouragement. I believe Jesus paid it all. I believe the tomb is empty. I believe that my first night in Colossians revealed to me the joy of Christ, the power of the Word, the privilege of walking in His power and might, and the promise that God will ultimately be glorified, no matter what takes place this side of heaven. Oh Spirit, lead the bride, and help us to fulfill your great commission.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Monday Monday Monday

2009-06-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

I thought by placing Monday 3 times to begin this post would fit nicely with the commonly used, "Sunday, Sunday, Sunday" idea... I think for monster truck relays? Anyways, it's Monday, and I'm glad to have a few minutes to write.

Beginning today, several church members are involved in a court case between a sweet lady in our church family, and her soon to be ex husband. More than a year ago, he committed adultery and left her, as well as his church family. Since then, this poor lady has dealt with the consequences and pain involved in his unrepentant sin. I'm glad to be a part of a church that is committed to taking care of one another as well as calling sin as it is. I pray for this man, that he truly comes to know Christ and experiences the privilege of repentance and forgiveness. Today, I've thought much about her and her kids. I can't imagine what they are going through...because of his sin. I hate sin. I hate the way it destroys families. I hate the way that the adversary can prowl this earth and because of evil pleasures, conformity leads to adultery. This man has admitted very cowardly his sin and moved on...but he has not shown true repentance. The book of Acts reminds me of the need for repentance, and not simply, "I feel bad, God forgive me, I'm moving on and living IN the very sin I committed"!! Thats this guy! Please pray for him.

This morning, while shaving, I listened to a few minutes of a sermon by David Platt. The text that he used was out of Romans 12:3-13. Here are some points that I gained from the text:

1. We must no be prideful and selfish, but realizing that our salvation is given by His grace. Even though our giftedness may be different, it doesn't mean any are better. (v.3-8) With this point, I realized that since we are the body of Christ, if one member is hurting, the body is hurting. I hurt for this precious lady today.

2. We must let love be genuine. I see a lack of love in so many ways, in the body. Gossip, slander, deceit, pride, etc., cripples the bride at its core, and robs her of love. I think when Jesus talks about loving our neighbor as ourself (Matthew 22:39), He really meant it! Paul tell us in verse 9 to, "Let Love be genuine, abhor what is evil, hold fast to what is good." I believe this passage is what has led many to the courtroom today to support her. They, like me, hate sin, and want to hold fast to what is good! The Lord is good! Taste and see. Read Psalm 34:8.

3. We must learn to rejoice in the Glory of the Lord. In verses 11-12, I see the focus being on the Lord. I see that even in suffering, we must focus on His greatness. Today, because of a lost man's unrepentant sin, a lady is suffering greatly. Oh, may she rejoice today still in the joy of the Lord and the love from His bride.

4. We must take care of one another. Specifically in the text, it is refering to early Christians; rather that be leaders of new believers. Again, today, many are trying to take care of this precious lady. I pray that the love they give brings glory and honor to the King. It makes me wonder if I'm actively living out this verse? Am I contributing to the needs of others? It brings Brooke and me great joy that we are soon opening our home to one of our students for his senior year. His room is ready to be moved in. I pray that hospitality brings glory and honor to the King. To His name, be the glory!

Some thoughts today. They may not be that organized. I just wanted to express what the Spirit revealed to me while I was shaving.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Tough Love

2009-05-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

This morning, I finised 1 Corinthians. I love that letter. It amazes me to see Paul write with such compassion and love to a church that was indeed unhealthy in many ways. I see nothing but grace from His hands as he writes; guided by the power of the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21, 2 Timothy 3:16). It's a great read, 16 chapters long. It may take you only 15 minutes to fully dive into it. I'd recommend you to read it over the weekend. It's worth the time, I promise!

The last few verses of this letter really got my attention to the idea of, "tough love." I've used this term before, in the past, to describe times in my life in which I had to bring tough truths, tough news, tough disciplines to those around me because the genuine love I have within my soul. I believe many churches fail in the area of giving, "tough love" to her members and visitors alike. Here is my point in a more practical sense; what is our reaction to some of these examples:

1. Someone (habitually, after being rebuked) teaches false doctrines in classes.
2. Someone commits adultery with no sign of remorse of repentance
3. Someone sneaks into the flock, like a wolf hungry for food, in order to devour and manipulate in order to get their selfish gains..
4. Someone spreads rumors and gossips against another, habitually, with no sign of remorse of repentance
5. Someone physically or sexually abuses a child (again, with no remorse or repentance)

The list can go on.... What should our response be?

I admit, this is a tough blog post to write, but please permit me to share with you what I've gained from 1 Corinthians 16:22-24. The apostle writes, "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus, Amen." This is a rich text! Lets break it down some together:

1. Verse 22 - Here, the word for love that Paul uses is, phileo, which actually translates, "have affection for; specially, to kiss (as a mark of tenderness) -- kiss, love." It's an unusual word, but it is indeed a beautiful truth! Our love for Christ must be genuine, tender, with full of affection. I see many Christians use the word "love" but truly wonder if Christ is their affection? Is Christ your affection? Do you specially love and show tenderness to His grace and His glory? I think the idea here is after writing a brilliant letter which contains rich doctrines about Christ and the church, Paul is then saying... if there are some that still DON'T TENDERLY, SPECIALLY, AFFECTIONATLY love Christ, as their treasure, then let them be anathema, which translates, "accused, deep curse, great.." May they realize that by conforming to this world and its evil desires (Romans 12:2), they have indeed reaped upon themselves the wrath of God (John 3:36). This is tough love. Are we willing to be brave and confident enough to take this passage and realize that Paul was trying to preach the news of Christ being our supreme treasure, our affectionate Savior, our tender Lamb, our mighty Lord, our everlasting hope, our great King and High Priest (I really could go on).

2. Verse 23 - Here, Paul, in such a beautiful way, proclaims a statement of blessing to the church that is saturated with the grace of Christ. I love this word, charis, for grace, which translates, "acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace(-ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank(-s, -worthy)." WOW. INCREDIBLE. Think about this, the love for Christ that we can have is indeed a gift of grace (read Ephesians 2:8-9, and 1 John 4:6-10). It is our pleasure and benefit to affectionatly love Christ. To place Him alone as our treasure (Matthew 6:21), means that we indeed receive the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7). Why would we want to be conformed to this world? What does this world have to offer in comparison to the benefit of Christ, our King? I hope this same statement of blessing be upon you as you read this; may His grace be with with you!

3. Verse 24 - Here, we see Paul give tender love to the church. What I truly see here is the opposite of verse 22. In verse 22, Paul gives a truthful declaration of judgment upon those that don't tenderly love and affectionaly adore Christ as their treasure. However, in verse 24, Paul seems to give that same love to the church. It challenged me with this thought: What kind of love do I give the bride? I believe we can take a challenge here that we are called to love the bride with the same love (phileo), as Christ, who is the bridegroom. This really reshapes the way I look at church in many ways. May the bride of Christ be drenched with the grace of Christ; which can draw her to affectionatly love and adore Christ as her head.

Some thoughts to begin a weekend. Open up and read 1 Corinthians.

Soli Deo Gloria.

Dave

1 Kings 18...Kill me if I don't preach the Gospel

2009-05-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

This morning, I read 1 Kings 18 during my quiet time. I grew up loving this story; the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel with the 450 priests of Baal. I love the passion and faith of Elijah and the willingness to put his life on the line to be a messenger of the glory of God. Take a moment and read 1 Kings 18:20-46 (because of the length of the passage, I decided not to put it all on here). After reading that passage, open your thoughts to some of these questions:

1. Do you have that same boldness daily to proclaim the glory of God?
2. Do you stand up for the truth of the Gospel in the midst of the deceptions in this world that include: false religions, humanism, hedonism, etc.
3. Do you rejoice and treasure God daily that His presence through His Spirit comes as natural to you as the presence of God in Elijah's life?
4. Is God ALmighty a reality to you...or just a mere thought and simple, weekly church attendance?

After having coffee this morning with my friend Dan Ratcliffe, I drove back to the office and listened to Lecrae. If you haven't heard of Lecrae, go to itunes and check them out. Lecrae is a rap group that focuses completely on the glory of Christ in His Word. I don't really like rap music all that much, but I haven't found many bands that paint such a beautiful and accurate picture of Christianity then this group. Check them out. Read their lyrics. One line this morning really jumped out to me, "Lord, kill me if I don't preach the Gospel." That line really shattered me (mixed in with too much coffee). I believe that our passion must be like Elijah. May we truly be "living sacrifices" as Romans 12:2 teaches. May we rebel against the conformity of sin that many taste here in American culture, and may we strive to be passionate about the glory of God in our lives. I love that line. I love 1 Kings 18. I love the Word. May we be as bold as Elijah today, for the advancement of the Risen Savior we treasure.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

Good times in Simpson

2009-05-26T13:50:00.000-07:00

I just returned last night from a weekend reunion with my family in Simpson, IL. I love the country. I love waking up to Aunt Roberta's cooking, coffee on the back porch, and great talks around the table. It's a great place to get away and realize how simple and joyful life can be. I'm grateful for my family. Please read a post I wrote a while back about my Aunt Roberta. She is indeed a hero of the faith.

On Sunday morning, I had the sweet privilege of preaching at the 10:30am service at Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian church. What a wonderful church family! The text was on Romans 5 and my challenge was to enjoy Christ above the pleasures of this world, for through Him alone, we have justification by faith. What an amazing truth. What a Savior. I'm grateful for Brother Bud's graciousness in allowing me the opportunity to preach. He is a hero of the faith as well. I enjoy seeing his love for his congregation. His love reminds me of the love that Paul must've had for the church at Corinth. His love is what I aspire to have if I'm ever privileged to pastor a flock under the guidance of my Savior. I pray more churches around this world would have pastors like Brother Bud, who is faithful to preach the Word and lead his congregation to glorify God Almighty.

Spend time in the Word today. Enjoy good times of sweet fellowship with the Spirit. May His Glorious Light shine in you in ways that radiate His beauty. As I observed the song of birds around me in the Simpson country air; bringing glory to their maker, may we as His treasured creation bring Him glory, aided by His Spirit. Read Genesis 1:26-28 and connect it to Ephesians 2:8-10. Fall on your knees and praise Him for His mighty grace.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Dave

Thursdays empty my thoughts

2009-05-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

I normally don't go into the office on Thursdays. I've noticed that on these days, my mind tends to go empty when it comes to deep thoughts. I think that after a week of teaching, preaching, studying, leading, planning, attending (meetings, that is), and other elements of my position, my brain takes a day off on Thursdays. Today, is no different. I've been refreshed by the Word. Today, I read 1 Corinthians 8. I love this rich chapter. It was a challenge for me to be sensitive to those that aren't as deep in Biblical understanding and practical living as me. For example, Paul makes note of those that are scared to eat meat due to their belief that it was contaminated with evil spirits (the meat was sold in the market after being used for idol worship). Paul encourages believers not to look down or argue with them, but to show grace and compassion to their lack of understanding. As a youth minister, I struggle with this. I often times paint in my mind pictures of what I want students to know at their age. The irony is found in the fact that when I was their age, I was much weaker in the faith. Oh what a wonderful Savior I worship, for in His grace, He led Godly men in my life that slowed down and helped me understand, instead of looking down on me for my lack of understanding.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave

The close of a great book

2009-05-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

Last night, we finished our study of Hosea. For the past few years, Brooke and I have had the joy of opening up our home to teach the Word. In those years, we've gone thru: Revelation, Romans, 1/2 of Hebrews, 2 John, and now Hosea. In 2 weeks, we will begin Colossians. The more that I study the Word, the more that I love it! Isaiah 55:11 and 2 Timothy 3:16 make sense to me. It reminds me that the Word we study was indeed given by God and for God. Read 2 Peter 1:21. What an amazing Word!

Hosea taught me several things:

1. We have a sin problem

2. We need repentance

3. We need to accept that He is good, above the pleasures of this world.

4. We need His grace

5. We need His steadfast love.

I'm sure there are others, but these really stuck out to me. In 14 chapters, and several months, I learned so much from a minor prophet that had nothing but love and desire to please the Lord. His personal message mixed in with the grand message for the people really reminded me of the importance of being a genuine minister of the Gospel, and not just some theological champion that likes to win debates. It is only His steadfast love that allows me to do ministry! It is His grace that leads me to repentance and salvation. I do find pleasure and delight in Him, and books like Hosea, help lead the way to walk daily on His path of righteousness.

What a great book. In fact, there are 66 books total. They are all good. Get a copy of God's Word and allow it to lead you as it did my orchestra friend who called me yesterday with tears of joy over what the Word was revealing to Him daily. His Word is eternal, His Word is truth, His Word has power beyond our comprehension. I stand firm to it as my foundation and invite you to join me.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave