Last year about this time, I was reflecting in my blog about the year that was 2009. I had seen God do so many great things in me and my family. Tomorrow is my next birthday, and I will be turning 46 this year. I saw a commercial the other day stating that people as young as 50 can be part of AARP. Wow, that was a nice bit of encourgement to me! So, I'm four years away from that milestone. But God isn't finished with me by far.
As I looked back at that blog post one year ago, I decided it was time for some reflection & evaluation of how 2010 turned out, as well as look at moving forward into 2011. Here are the goals I listed at that time, first the obvious ones:
- to glorify God in everything I do, say, think, believe, express, etc.
- to love my wife as Christ loves the church, willing to give myself for her
- to make my wife & children my primary ministry as unto the Lord
- to serve faithfully in the ministries God has provided - both school & church
In terms of evaluation, I believe I did make some progress in most of these over last year. But these will remain important parts of my goals for 2011 as well. I always need to grow in loving my wife more. One big area of focus for me this year will be to really invest more in my boys. They are at a crucial age now, and I need to be participating in their lives fully as well as to be an example of a Godly man. The girls will need time as well, especially for Kelsey as she begins her senior year in high school. In addition, I need to lead my family to be more missional in our neighborhood. There's no doubt that God is leading us as a family to make more of an impact for Christ there. The school and church ministries are growing and making an impact in others' lives. I need to continue to be sensitive to God's leading in both places.
But here are a few more goals that still remain close to my heart in 2011:
- to live my life with an increasing passion for Jesus Christ
- to accept God's ongoing process of humbling me with joy
- to not waste my life with things of no eternal value
- to magnify my Lord through both joy & suffering, leaning on His power & will
- to take Spirit-led risks that honor God through simple trust in Him
- to invest Christlikeness in others for making much of Christ in others & the world
- to be willing to give up anything God desires, even my own life
- to be a living sacrifice, holy & pleasing to God every day
I definitely see God working in me every day. My prayer is that He will continue faithfully the process of making me what He desires. And that I will live for Him in all things.
Pastor Randy
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas - Why We Celebrate
Luke 2:1-20 (NKJV)
1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
14 “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely[d] known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Merry Christmas!
Pastor Randy
1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
14 “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely[d] known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Merry Christmas!
Pastor Randy
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Bridges Christmas Letter
Time for the Bridges’ Family Christmas update! The past year saw God make some big changes in the Bridges’ household. As we mentioned last year, God called us to step out in faith and quickly led us to a new church home at Wakefield Baptist Church in Wake Forest, NC. We have enjoyed getting to know the loving and supportive family of Christ there over the past year. Randy was called as their new part-time Minister of Music in June. It was not easy to leave our friends at Watkins Chapel, but it has been a blessing to keep up with many of them and hear about what God is doing in their lives.
Obviously the change in ministry has had the greatest impact on Randy. He has enjoyed the opportunity to focus on Music Ministry and his teaching at NRCA. The music ministry at Wakefield continues to grow, and Randy is seeing God work in great ways. At NRCA, the school’s recent expansion allowed Randy to teach all seventh graders for the first time. He has a great group of students this year. God is also providing many ministry opportunities in the lives of his students and their families. Randy is trying to read all he can, including a great book by David Platt, called “Radical”. He highly recommends it. Another highlight for Randy this year was taking Daniel to the beach for some discussions on biblical manhood. It was a great trip and an opportunity to spend time together.
Felicia continues to manage Human Resources for the Turnpike Authority, but is really most excited about the progress in her writing over the past year. In January, her friend Daphne suggested they attend the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference at Ridgecrest, NC, in May. After much prayer about the resources and time away from work, Felicia committed to the trip in faith. God provided a full scholarship from the Cecil B. Murphey Foundation, and Felicia almost missed receiving it because she thought the email notification was junkmail! The conference was an incredible opportunity to meet and study under published authors, discuss current projects with agents and publishers, and learn just how much she did NOT know about writing. She forged some wonderful friendships and has spent the last five months trying to apply all the wonderful things she learned to her manuscript. One of the most helpful aspects of the conference has been her connection with a critique group which has allowed her to get regular weekly feedback on each chapter as she continues to re-write, re-write, and re-write. She is currently praying about whether God might provide a way for her to go back to BRMCWC in 2011, hopefully with a completely re-written manuscript ready to pitch to those editors!
Megan has had a few changes over the past year as well. She did a great job at NCSU her freshman year, earning all A’s and B’s while acting in three productions. She even won a “Hammy” award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Milky White in “Into the Woods”, in which she stole the show, or at least the first Act! She also decided to change majors to International Studies – Europe which she believes will line up better with the call she feels to missions. Her current plan is to fulfill the study abroad requirement for her major by spending six weeks in Prague, Czech Republic this summer. She spent most of last summer looking for a job and finally landed one working at Red Robin. She even got to exercise her theatrical skills being the bird, but learned that was not quite as fun as it might appear. She was happy to get back to her on-campus job this fall managing the information booth each day at lunchtime. She also had the opportunity to get some backstage experience this semester serving as Assistant Stage Manager and then as Costumer.
Kelsey says her schoolwork has eaten her life. Taking two Advanced Placement courses and three Honors level courses is definitely keeping her busy, especially during Marching Band season. Serving as Squad Leader again, Kelsey and the Marching Knights had a great season, winning numerous awards at the three competitions they attended. As a Junior, this year is filled with college visits, SATs and discussions about possible majors. She is interested in Medical School and even thinking about going to UNC-Chapel Hill for undergrad, much to the horror of the entire family! Kelsey started working at Chick-Fil-A last summer and loves it. They’ve been very understanding about her band schedule and, of course, she gets Sundays off. She and Spencer continue to spend time together, mostly with friends in the band, and will celebrate three years together in January.
Daniel is enjoying sixth grade and feeling like a big man on campus in Middle School. He played Knights League basketball last winter and is thinking about joining the track team this spring. He’s ready for his exam week to come even though he only has to take one because he had almost all A’s this year. He’s found an interest in reading and writing books. He has been reading the Percy Jackson series and is about to start reading the last book. Daniel continues to play trombone in the school band and has joined the youth praise team on drums. He is very excited about being in the church youth ministry. With Daniel turning twelve this year, Randy took him to the beach for some male bonding and life lessons in preparation for his teen years. They had a great time, and Daniel probably learned more than he wanted to know about living as a Godly man!
Matt is in third grade this year and making straight A’s, and makes it look really easy. He has discovered a love for writing and has completed his first play, “A Valentine’s Carol – A Lesson about Kindness.” He tells us it is based on Matthew 5:44. He is singing in the Children’s Choir at church and also played Knights League last winter with Randy as his coach. He just found out he’ll be in the “garage band” in the third grade musical this year at school. Matt’s love for action movies continues, and he is always making up his own movies as well. We’re sure he will be a famous writer one day. But one of Matt’s most important qualities is a heart that shows love to everyone. He is always ready with a hug or a kind word that melts your heart.
Well, that is all the news we have from the Bridges’ home. You can follow us throughout the year on Facebook, Twitter, and our blogs (psalms204.blogspot.com and rbridges2.blogspot.com). We hope that you and your family have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior and that the New Year draws you ever closer to Him!
Merry Christmas!
Randy, Felicia, Megan, Kelsey, Daniel & Matt Bridges
Obviously the change in ministry has had the greatest impact on Randy. He has enjoyed the opportunity to focus on Music Ministry and his teaching at NRCA. The music ministry at Wakefield continues to grow, and Randy is seeing God work in great ways. At NRCA, the school’s recent expansion allowed Randy to teach all seventh graders for the first time. He has a great group of students this year. God is also providing many ministry opportunities in the lives of his students and their families. Randy is trying to read all he can, including a great book by David Platt, called “Radical”. He highly recommends it. Another highlight for Randy this year was taking Daniel to the beach for some discussions on biblical manhood. It was a great trip and an opportunity to spend time together.
Felicia continues to manage Human Resources for the Turnpike Authority, but is really most excited about the progress in her writing over the past year. In January, her friend Daphne suggested they attend the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference at Ridgecrest, NC, in May. After much prayer about the resources and time away from work, Felicia committed to the trip in faith. God provided a full scholarship from the Cecil B. Murphey Foundation, and Felicia almost missed receiving it because she thought the email notification was junkmail! The conference was an incredible opportunity to meet and study under published authors, discuss current projects with agents and publishers, and learn just how much she did NOT know about writing. She forged some wonderful friendships and has spent the last five months trying to apply all the wonderful things she learned to her manuscript. One of the most helpful aspects of the conference has been her connection with a critique group which has allowed her to get regular weekly feedback on each chapter as she continues to re-write, re-write, and re-write. She is currently praying about whether God might provide a way for her to go back to BRMCWC in 2011, hopefully with a completely re-written manuscript ready to pitch to those editors!
Megan has had a few changes over the past year as well. She did a great job at NCSU her freshman year, earning all A’s and B’s while acting in three productions. She even won a “Hammy” award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Milky White in “Into the Woods”, in which she stole the show, or at least the first Act! She also decided to change majors to International Studies – Europe which she believes will line up better with the call she feels to missions. Her current plan is to fulfill the study abroad requirement for her major by spending six weeks in Prague, Czech Republic this summer. She spent most of last summer looking for a job and finally landed one working at Red Robin. She even got to exercise her theatrical skills being the bird, but learned that was not quite as fun as it might appear. She was happy to get back to her on-campus job this fall managing the information booth each day at lunchtime. She also had the opportunity to get some backstage experience this semester serving as Assistant Stage Manager and then as Costumer.
Kelsey says her schoolwork has eaten her life. Taking two Advanced Placement courses and three Honors level courses is definitely keeping her busy, especially during Marching Band season. Serving as Squad Leader again, Kelsey and the Marching Knights had a great season, winning numerous awards at the three competitions they attended. As a Junior, this year is filled with college visits, SATs and discussions about possible majors. She is interested in Medical School and even thinking about going to UNC-Chapel Hill for undergrad, much to the horror of the entire family! Kelsey started working at Chick-Fil-A last summer and loves it. They’ve been very understanding about her band schedule and, of course, she gets Sundays off. She and Spencer continue to spend time together, mostly with friends in the band, and will celebrate three years together in January.
Daniel is enjoying sixth grade and feeling like a big man on campus in Middle School. He played Knights League basketball last winter and is thinking about joining the track team this spring. He’s ready for his exam week to come even though he only has to take one because he had almost all A’s this year. He’s found an interest in reading and writing books. He has been reading the Percy Jackson series and is about to start reading the last book. Daniel continues to play trombone in the school band and has joined the youth praise team on drums. He is very excited about being in the church youth ministry. With Daniel turning twelve this year, Randy took him to the beach for some male bonding and life lessons in preparation for his teen years. They had a great time, and Daniel probably learned more than he wanted to know about living as a Godly man!
Matt is in third grade this year and making straight A’s, and makes it look really easy. He has discovered a love for writing and has completed his first play, “A Valentine’s Carol – A Lesson about Kindness.” He tells us it is based on Matthew 5:44. He is singing in the Children’s Choir at church and also played Knights League last winter with Randy as his coach. He just found out he’ll be in the “garage band” in the third grade musical this year at school. Matt’s love for action movies continues, and he is always making up his own movies as well. We’re sure he will be a famous writer one day. But one of Matt’s most important qualities is a heart that shows love to everyone. He is always ready with a hug or a kind word that melts your heart.
Well, that is all the news we have from the Bridges’ home. You can follow us throughout the year on Facebook, Twitter, and our blogs (psalms204.blogspot.com and rbridges2.blogspot.com). We hope that you and your family have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior and that the New Year draws you ever closer to Him!
Merry Christmas!
Randy, Felicia, Megan, Kelsey, Daniel & Matt Bridges
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Give Thanks
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Here are some things I'm thankful for (not a complete list).
I am thankful for............
1. God saving me through Jesus Christ.
2. My wonderful wife, Felicia, who puts up with me every day....and still loves me.
3. My daughter, Megan, who will always be my most favorite actress.
4. My daughter, Kelsey, who will likely perform brain surgery on me some day.
5. My son, Daniel, who is a little too much like his daddy.
6. My son, Matt, who will likely win an emmy for writing a screen play some day.
7. My parents who created a godly heritage in me even through difficult times.
8. My brother, Mike, who encourages me in being a follower of Christ & has provided so much for my family.
9. Mike's family - Steph, Hannah, Josh & Gracie - who will be here soon.
10. All my extended family - know that I pray for you all often.
11. The opportunity to serve at North Raleigh Christian Academy.
12. The opportunity to serve at Wakefield Baptist Church.
13. The pleasure of serving with the staff at Wakefield.
14. The music ministry and those who serve in it at Wakefield.
15. The ability to work with our youth and children at Wakefield.
16. All the past churches I've had the pleasure to serve at & how God used them to refine me.
17. The time I've spent on campus & in classes at SEBTS.
18. God's daily provision for my family and me.
19. The opportunity to see God work in great ways every day.
20. God's Word, the Bible, and how it speaks so boldly to me every day.
21. The Holy Spirit who guides me in holy living & let's me know when I need correction.
22. The gift of music & how it lifts me up, convicts, and encourages.
23. Those who pray for me and encourage me each day.
24. The reminder every day that this life is not about me - it's about God and His glory.
25. Many difficult days & trials that have refined & purified me.
26. Having shelter, cars, food, water, clothes, shoes, and so much more from the Lord.
27. A week off from school to spend with my family for Thanksgiving.
28. The ability to wake-up this morning, to live, to breathe, to exist for God's glory.
29. Opportunities to share with others what Christ has done for me.
30. Cheeseburgers, pizza, Chick-Fil-A, banana pudding, Snickers, McDonald's breakfast, mexican food, chinese food, Moe's, Olive Garden, good action movies & comedies, & N.C. State.
Ok, so I went a little carnal on that last one...........Happy Thanksgiving.
Pastor Randy
I am thankful for............
1. God saving me through Jesus Christ.
2. My wonderful wife, Felicia, who puts up with me every day....and still loves me.
3. My daughter, Megan, who will always be my most favorite actress.
4. My daughter, Kelsey, who will likely perform brain surgery on me some day.
5. My son, Daniel, who is a little too much like his daddy.
6. My son, Matt, who will likely win an emmy for writing a screen play some day.
7. My parents who created a godly heritage in me even through difficult times.
8. My brother, Mike, who encourages me in being a follower of Christ & has provided so much for my family.
9. Mike's family - Steph, Hannah, Josh & Gracie - who will be here soon.
10. All my extended family - know that I pray for you all often.
11. The opportunity to serve at North Raleigh Christian Academy.
12. The opportunity to serve at Wakefield Baptist Church.
13. The pleasure of serving with the staff at Wakefield.
14. The music ministry and those who serve in it at Wakefield.
15. The ability to work with our youth and children at Wakefield.
16. All the past churches I've had the pleasure to serve at & how God used them to refine me.
17. The time I've spent on campus & in classes at SEBTS.
18. God's daily provision for my family and me.
19. The opportunity to see God work in great ways every day.
20. God's Word, the Bible, and how it speaks so boldly to me every day.
21. The Holy Spirit who guides me in holy living & let's me know when I need correction.
22. The gift of music & how it lifts me up, convicts, and encourages.
23. Those who pray for me and encourage me each day.
24. The reminder every day that this life is not about me - it's about God and His glory.
25. Many difficult days & trials that have refined & purified me.
26. Having shelter, cars, food, water, clothes, shoes, and so much more from the Lord.
27. A week off from school to spend with my family for Thanksgiving.
28. The ability to wake-up this morning, to live, to breathe, to exist for God's glory.
29. Opportunities to share with others what Christ has done for me.
30. Cheeseburgers, pizza, Chick-Fil-A, banana pudding, Snickers, McDonald's breakfast, mexican food, chinese food, Moe's, Olive Garden, good action movies & comedies, & N.C. State.
Ok, so I went a little carnal on that last one...........Happy Thanksgiving.
Pastor Randy
Monday, November 1, 2010
Tribute to a Friend
I learned today of the passing of an old friend from a former church where I served on staff. Barton Salisbury was only 51 years old and had a wife and two children. He passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 28 while visiting the mountains of North Carolina.
Barton was always someone you could count on. He loved helping people and serving others in a variety of ways. I don't ever remember a time when I saw Barton not helping someone. As I served in music ministry in the church, he was always a positive encouragement to me. I kind of saw him as a Barnabas type man, ready to serve and encourage others to do the same.
But there's one experience with Barton that I will never forget. I was saved at age 9, but I drifted away from the Lord and church for a time during college and early in my marriage. I didn't turn my back on God, but I sought to do things that I wanted to do. Anyway, a friend of my wife's invited our family to VBS at this church. I came up with a million reasons not to go, but we went anyway. I remember I wept during the VBS commencement that last night, realizing I needed to run back to the Lord, and bring my family in tow with me.
About a week later, the Pastor came to our house to visit. The Pastor brought another man with him - Barton Salisbury. I remember the time very well. As the Pastor and I talked about various personal and theological issues, Barton sat quietly, listening and praying. When my girls, who were very young at the time, needed something, Barton would get it for them. He also played with them at times to limit any possible distraction to the conversation going on. He even answered my phone for me when it rang. When we were finished, we prayed together and the two men left.
I later learned that Barton had been participating in some evangelism training at the church, and he had served his role perfectly as the silent/praying partner. As I reflect on this event again today, I realize even more than ever a few important things. First, God needs all types of people - those who can share the Gospel in words and actions, including being silent and praying at times. Second, I believe Barton wasn't looking for the limelight that night in my house. He only wanted to be an obedient part of what God was already doing in my life. Third, I will always remember how God used Barton in bringing me back to Himself.
I certainly believe Barton Salisbury was a believer on this earth, having trusted in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. That means Barton is celebrating and worshipping with his Lord today. Casting his crowns, including at least part of one that was representative of his impact in my life, at Jesus' feet. May God be praised, and may He use me to have the same impact in someone else's life today.
Pastor Randy
Barton was always someone you could count on. He loved helping people and serving others in a variety of ways. I don't ever remember a time when I saw Barton not helping someone. As I served in music ministry in the church, he was always a positive encouragement to me. I kind of saw him as a Barnabas type man, ready to serve and encourage others to do the same.
But there's one experience with Barton that I will never forget. I was saved at age 9, but I drifted away from the Lord and church for a time during college and early in my marriage. I didn't turn my back on God, but I sought to do things that I wanted to do. Anyway, a friend of my wife's invited our family to VBS at this church. I came up with a million reasons not to go, but we went anyway. I remember I wept during the VBS commencement that last night, realizing I needed to run back to the Lord, and bring my family in tow with me.
About a week later, the Pastor came to our house to visit. The Pastor brought another man with him - Barton Salisbury. I remember the time very well. As the Pastor and I talked about various personal and theological issues, Barton sat quietly, listening and praying. When my girls, who were very young at the time, needed something, Barton would get it for them. He also played with them at times to limit any possible distraction to the conversation going on. He even answered my phone for me when it rang. When we were finished, we prayed together and the two men left.
I later learned that Barton had been participating in some evangelism training at the church, and he had served his role perfectly as the silent/praying partner. As I reflect on this event again today, I realize even more than ever a few important things. First, God needs all types of people - those who can share the Gospel in words and actions, including being silent and praying at times. Second, I believe Barton wasn't looking for the limelight that night in my house. He only wanted to be an obedient part of what God was already doing in my life. Third, I will always remember how God used Barton in bringing me back to Himself.
I certainly believe Barton Salisbury was a believer on this earth, having trusted in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. That means Barton is celebrating and worshipping with his Lord today. Casting his crowns, including at least part of one that was representative of his impact in my life, at Jesus' feet. May God be praised, and may He use me to have the same impact in someone else's life today.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Halloween Plans
Halloween is one day away. It's certainly not my favorite holiday at all, except that it's also the date when Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenburg, Germany (Oct. 31, 1517). Now that's an important date in Christian history!
Anyway, my family has participated in church-sponsored Halloween alternatives for many years. We have usually done this instead of going trick-or-treating with the kids. As a church staff member, I greatly appreciate the value of these activities in providing alternatives to some of the non-Christian aspects of this holiday. I've seen these programs help a church reach out to its community and share Jesus Christ. I fully support them and their potential in Christ.
However this year, my family and I will be spending Halloween in our own neighborhood. It's not because we want to trick-or-treat. It's not because we don't see the value in church-sponsored programs. It's not because we are endorsing the holiday - absolutely not! It's because we desire to reach our community for Jesus Christ.
Here is an article written recently by Dr. George Robinson that helps speak to this:
http://betweenthetimes.com/2010/09/28/why-all-good-christians-should-celebrate-halloween/
I went today and bought a lot of candy and Gospel tracts to hand out tomorrow night to families as they come by the house. We will also be going to visit the houses on our street, primarily to introduce ourselves and hopefully open the door for future ministry and relationship opportunities. Again, our desire is not to endorse Halloween, but to use this as a way to introduce people to Christ.
God continues to give our family a great burden to reach our neighborhood for Him. I must confess that we have been terrible at this. The time has come to obey what we know is God's desire for us.
We are certainly not giving up on church-sponsored events. But we believe now is the time to reach people with the life changing message we already know.
Pastor Randy
Anyway, my family has participated in church-sponsored Halloween alternatives for many years. We have usually done this instead of going trick-or-treating with the kids. As a church staff member, I greatly appreciate the value of these activities in providing alternatives to some of the non-Christian aspects of this holiday. I've seen these programs help a church reach out to its community and share Jesus Christ. I fully support them and their potential in Christ.
However this year, my family and I will be spending Halloween in our own neighborhood. It's not because we want to trick-or-treat. It's not because we don't see the value in church-sponsored programs. It's not because we are endorsing the holiday - absolutely not! It's because we desire to reach our community for Jesus Christ.
Here is an article written recently by Dr. George Robinson that helps speak to this:
http://betweenthetimes.com/2010/09/28/why-all-good-christians-should-celebrate-halloween/
I went today and bought a lot of candy and Gospel tracts to hand out tomorrow night to families as they come by the house. We will also be going to visit the houses on our street, primarily to introduce ourselves and hopefully open the door for future ministry and relationship opportunities. Again, our desire is not to endorse Halloween, but to use this as a way to introduce people to Christ.
God continues to give our family a great burden to reach our neighborhood for Him. I must confess that we have been terrible at this. The time has come to obey what we know is God's desire for us.
We are certainly not giving up on church-sponsored events. But we believe now is the time to reach people with the life changing message we already know.
Pastor Randy
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Pray Without Ceasing - Making the Most of the Moment
The Bible tells us an important part of our prayer life. 1 Thess. 5:18 tells us to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." The key part I want to focus on is praying without ceasing.
One of the ways I try to apply this in my life involves stopping to pray when a need arises. We all lead very busy lives these days. It is quite likely that if someone asks me to pray about something during the day, I may forget about it later when I have more time to pray. Now, I should always strive to write these things down so I don't forget. But sometimes the opportunity to write something down is also not easy. Rather, what I try to do is to pause either at that moment or within a few minutes to pray for the need. I try to do the same later on, stopping to pray for the need as God reminds me of it.
I try to do the same type of thing throughout the day as needs come to mind. This is especially true when praying for my family, our school, our church, and other important things. I believe it's important to follow through when I tell someone I'm going to pray for them. I also hope others will do the same for me. One of the things I use Facebook and Twitter for is to pray for others. If I see something come through these tools that calls people to pray for a need, I try to pray for that need at that time.
I'm not trying to elevate myself in this. I assure you I have a lot to learn about prayer. But God has just shown me that this is an effective way for me to pray. I hope it is also an encouragement to others.
Pastor Randy
One of the ways I try to apply this in my life involves stopping to pray when a need arises. We all lead very busy lives these days. It is quite likely that if someone asks me to pray about something during the day, I may forget about it later when I have more time to pray. Now, I should always strive to write these things down so I don't forget. But sometimes the opportunity to write something down is also not easy. Rather, what I try to do is to pause either at that moment or within a few minutes to pray for the need. I try to do the same later on, stopping to pray for the need as God reminds me of it.
I try to do the same type of thing throughout the day as needs come to mind. This is especially true when praying for my family, our school, our church, and other important things. I believe it's important to follow through when I tell someone I'm going to pray for them. I also hope others will do the same for me. One of the things I use Facebook and Twitter for is to pray for others. If I see something come through these tools that calls people to pray for a need, I try to pray for that need at that time.
I'm not trying to elevate myself in this. I assure you I have a lot to learn about prayer. But God has just shown me that this is an effective way for me to pray. I hope it is also an encouragement to others.
Pastor Randy
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Pink Slips
So here's how it happens. I play the part of the mean, wicked math teacher, out to prey on unsuspecting students while wielding my favorite weapon - the pink slip. For you novices out there, the pink slip is often perceived as the weapon of choice for a teacher. We teachers stand in the hallways, throwing them at unsuspecting students, feeding on their cries of "but I didn't do it" while giving one of those famous Vincent Price laughs that .... well, you get the idea.
All joking aside, it's called a discipline referral form, and students are given one for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, at least for me, students are given a pink slip when they do something that goes against either school policy or my classroom procedures. Or if a student makes a choice to do something that directly or indirectly harms someone else, even if the offending one thinks their actions were harmless. The infractions can be minor or major. I guess this is similar to being sent to the principal's office in my day. I had that happen to me a couple of times when I was in middle school. It's a way to hold students accountable for their actions and build strong Christian character in them. It worked for me.
But God has changed my heart on the pink slip during my almost five years of teaching at a Christian school. I confess that in my first year or two, I gave almost no pink slips. In fact, I almost prided myself in this achievement, even boasting about it to my students at times. But what I saw consistently at the same time was the same students doing the same inappropriate actions over and over again. Now, I haven't gone completely the other way either. I still don't write a lot of pink slips. However, I believe God has convicted me that students need to be accountable for their choices and actions, just like we all are as believers before a holy God.
I think we miss the blessing and encouragement of discipline. Hebrews 12:11 says, "now no chastening (discipline) seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." The pink slip is painful when it's given to the student. They have to suffer the consequences for their choices, usually an after school detention. But afterwards, the discipline they are given produces the Godly fruit of righteousness in them. You see, it's all part of the training that each student goes through. Even students who don't get a pink slip at school will still endure discipline from God, assuming they are a believer. So, in a way that is strange for us to understand, we need to see discipline as helpful to us....even joyful. Ouch, perish the thought! But also remember Hebrews 12:6, which reminds us that "for whom the Lord loves He chastens (disciplines)", and 12:5, "my son, do not despise the chastening (disciplining) of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him".
Now, I am certainly not encouraging my students to seek after the pink slip. Our sinful heritage will provide enough opportunities for discipline from the Lord. But I am encouraging my students to see the pink slip, should you receive one, as one way God uses to correct us and make us more like Christ. And that's exactly what we are to be.
A final thought on this - from this teacher's heart. I have never given a pink slip without a burden on my heart for the student involved. Many times, I wrestle with this decision and pray to the Lord about whether to give it or not. Many times, I think that maybe I can overlook this incident, maybe just talk with the student about it, and pray it doesn't happen again. Sometimes that is the best, God-honoring response, and when God confirms that for me, I follow His leading exactly. But there are more times when God confirms that providing discipline to a student is the best thing to do. I have even cried over a few pink slips I've given, so burdened for the student involved and what I can do better as their teacher. However, my aim in giving pink slips, as in all areas of my life, is to obey God. The Bible is clear that He will hold me accountable as the teacher, even more so.
My prayer is that God will use pink slips to fulfill the passages in Hebrews mentioned earlier in the lives of my students. And that any student who gets a pink slip from me will believe that it comes from a teacher who loves them and wants to see them do great things for Christ.
Pastor Randy
All joking aside, it's called a discipline referral form, and students are given one for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, at least for me, students are given a pink slip when they do something that goes against either school policy or my classroom procedures. Or if a student makes a choice to do something that directly or indirectly harms someone else, even if the offending one thinks their actions were harmless. The infractions can be minor or major. I guess this is similar to being sent to the principal's office in my day. I had that happen to me a couple of times when I was in middle school. It's a way to hold students accountable for their actions and build strong Christian character in them. It worked for me.
But God has changed my heart on the pink slip during my almost five years of teaching at a Christian school. I confess that in my first year or two, I gave almost no pink slips. In fact, I almost prided myself in this achievement, even boasting about it to my students at times. But what I saw consistently at the same time was the same students doing the same inappropriate actions over and over again. Now, I haven't gone completely the other way either. I still don't write a lot of pink slips. However, I believe God has convicted me that students need to be accountable for their choices and actions, just like we all are as believers before a holy God.
I think we miss the blessing and encouragement of discipline. Hebrews 12:11 says, "now no chastening (discipline) seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." The pink slip is painful when it's given to the student. They have to suffer the consequences for their choices, usually an after school detention. But afterwards, the discipline they are given produces the Godly fruit of righteousness in them. You see, it's all part of the training that each student goes through. Even students who don't get a pink slip at school will still endure discipline from God, assuming they are a believer. So, in a way that is strange for us to understand, we need to see discipline as helpful to us....even joyful. Ouch, perish the thought! But also remember Hebrews 12:6, which reminds us that "for whom the Lord loves He chastens (disciplines)", and 12:5, "my son, do not despise the chastening (disciplining) of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him".
Now, I am certainly not encouraging my students to seek after the pink slip. Our sinful heritage will provide enough opportunities for discipline from the Lord. But I am encouraging my students to see the pink slip, should you receive one, as one way God uses to correct us and make us more like Christ. And that's exactly what we are to be.
A final thought on this - from this teacher's heart. I have never given a pink slip without a burden on my heart for the student involved. Many times, I wrestle with this decision and pray to the Lord about whether to give it or not. Many times, I think that maybe I can overlook this incident, maybe just talk with the student about it, and pray it doesn't happen again. Sometimes that is the best, God-honoring response, and when God confirms that for me, I follow His leading exactly. But there are more times when God confirms that providing discipline to a student is the best thing to do. I have even cried over a few pink slips I've given, so burdened for the student involved and what I can do better as their teacher. However, my aim in giving pink slips, as in all areas of my life, is to obey God. The Bible is clear that He will hold me accountable as the teacher, even more so.
My prayer is that God will use pink slips to fulfill the passages in Hebrews mentioned earlier in the lives of my students. And that any student who gets a pink slip from me will believe that it comes from a teacher who loves them and wants to see them do great things for Christ.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, September 11, 2010
God's Word is Alive
It's amazing how God will bring the truth of His Word to light in our lives, especially at just the time we need it. But then again, He is God afterall! I should never be surprised at this. His Word is alive, and it speaks to me all the time. But especially over the last month or so.
I've had a few struggles in ministry over the course of the last 15 or so years. Being a minister can be challenging at times, but the call of God is always filled with confidence that He is the One doing all the work. I just need to be His servant. I've been reading lately in the New Testament, specifically 1 Corinthians and 1 & 2 Timothy. Paul is definitely a guy I can relate to in many ways. He was faithful in his ministry as he completely trusted in the Lord for everything. He wanted his life to mirror that of Christ, so that people might imitate him as he imitated Christ.
Today, I finished up reading 2 Timothy. Chapters 2-4 really spoke encouragement to me. God encourages us through Paul to trust in the Lord in times of difficulty, stay faithful to the ministry He has called us to, be poured out like a drink offering, finish the race with courage, and remember that the Lord is faithful in all things. Man, that's good stuff!
But today, possibly the one passage that encouraged me the most says this (2 Tim. 4:16-18):
"At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear...and the Lord will deliver me...and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!"
I pray I will remember this always as I seek to serve God in His ministry.
Pastor Randy
I've had a few struggles in ministry over the course of the last 15 or so years. Being a minister can be challenging at times, but the call of God is always filled with confidence that He is the One doing all the work. I just need to be His servant. I've been reading lately in the New Testament, specifically 1 Corinthians and 1 & 2 Timothy. Paul is definitely a guy I can relate to in many ways. He was faithful in his ministry as he completely trusted in the Lord for everything. He wanted his life to mirror that of Christ, so that people might imitate him as he imitated Christ.
Today, I finished up reading 2 Timothy. Chapters 2-4 really spoke encouragement to me. God encourages us through Paul to trust in the Lord in times of difficulty, stay faithful to the ministry He has called us to, be poured out like a drink offering, finish the race with courage, and remember that the Lord is faithful in all things. Man, that's good stuff!
But today, possibly the one passage that encouraged me the most says this (2 Tim. 4:16-18):
"At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear...and the Lord will deliver me...and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!"
I pray I will remember this always as I seek to serve God in His ministry.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Funny One Liners
Someone gave me something recently with a bunch of funny one liners. Here are a few I liked.
- I don't suffer from insanity; I enjoy every minute of it.
- Few women admit their age; few men act it.
- Campers: nature's way of feeding mosquitoes.
- Always remember that you are unique; just like everyone else.
- Consciousness: that annoying time between naps.
- Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.
- I took an IQ test and the results were negative.
- Be nice to your kids. They'll choose your nursing home.
- I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not too sure.
- If at first you don't succeed, don't try skydiving.
- If Barbie is so popular, why do you have to buy her friends?
Enjoy.
Pastor Randy
- I don't suffer from insanity; I enjoy every minute of it.
- Few women admit their age; few men act it.
- Campers: nature's way of feeding mosquitoes.
- Always remember that you are unique; just like everyone else.
- Consciousness: that annoying time between naps.
- Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.
- I took an IQ test and the results were negative.
- Be nice to your kids. They'll choose your nursing home.
- I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not too sure.
- If at first you don't succeed, don't try skydiving.
- If Barbie is so popular, why do you have to buy her friends?
Enjoy.
Pastor Randy
Friday, August 20, 2010
A Teacher's Legacy
The first full week of school is now in the books. It was truly a great week overall. I can't remember a smoother first week in my time so far at the school. This promises to be a great year for our 7th grade team.
One of the things I do on the first Friday of every school year is to lead an activity to get to know my students better. I ask them some questions about themselves, and they write their responses on an index card that I keep. One of the questions is for them to tell me who their favorite teacher is and why. This week, I heard one particular NRCA teacher's name come up in probably 75-80% of responses overall. I'll not put her name here, but I've already told her about it - so she knows.
The students commented consistently about the positive influence this teacher has had in their lives. Some of the responses included:
- she teaches in a way I can understand
- she makes the subject fun
- she talks a lot about God
- she puts everything in a spiritual context
- she is someone I can talk to
- she encourages me
- she treats me like her daughter/son
- she can relate to me because she has a daughter my age
- she preaches in class
- she is funny
Now, the parts I like have to do with the obvious spiritual content and example she gives each day in class. She also is very firm with class discipline, but apparently the students only see that coming from a heart of love for them. While the majority of the students affirming this teacher were girls, there were also a good number of boys doing the same. That says this teacher can adapt and relate to all her students across the board.
Wow, that's exciting! I am thankful to be able to serve with someone like this. And I'm also challenged to be a better teacher because of this. I have so much to learn. I pray that God will develop in me a teachable spirit. One that can always learn how to do better in the ministry He has placed me in.
Pastor Randy
One of the things I do on the first Friday of every school year is to lead an activity to get to know my students better. I ask them some questions about themselves, and they write their responses on an index card that I keep. One of the questions is for them to tell me who their favorite teacher is and why. This week, I heard one particular NRCA teacher's name come up in probably 75-80% of responses overall. I'll not put her name here, but I've already told her about it - so she knows.
The students commented consistently about the positive influence this teacher has had in their lives. Some of the responses included:
- she teaches in a way I can understand
- she makes the subject fun
- she talks a lot about God
- she puts everything in a spiritual context
- she is someone I can talk to
- she encourages me
- she treats me like her daughter/son
- she can relate to me because she has a daughter my age
- she preaches in class
- she is funny
Now, the parts I like have to do with the obvious spiritual content and example she gives each day in class. She also is very firm with class discipline, but apparently the students only see that coming from a heart of love for them. While the majority of the students affirming this teacher were girls, there were also a good number of boys doing the same. That says this teacher can adapt and relate to all her students across the board.
Wow, that's exciting! I am thankful to be able to serve with someone like this. And I'm also challenged to be a better teacher because of this. I have so much to learn. I pray that God will develop in me a teachable spirit. One that can always learn how to do better in the ministry He has placed me in.
Pastor Randy
Monday, July 26, 2010
There's No "I" in Team
I read a story on ESPN.com this morning about Dez Bryant, the new rookie wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. Seems this guy has a lot of potential and will likely be a valuable asset to the team. But it seems to me he's got the wrong perspective on things.
Anyone who knows much of anything about the NFL knows that rookies normally endure some hazing during their first training camp. It's a rite of passage as these new players become part of the team. In this case, Roy WIlliams, one of the starting receivers, wanted Bryant to carry his pads after practice. Given some of the things rookies are typically asked to do, this wasn't too bad. Bryant responded:
"I'm not doing it," Bryant said. "I feel like I was drafted to play football, not carry another player's pads. If I was a free agent, it would still be the same thing. I just feel like I'm here to play football. I'm here to try to help win a championship, not carry someone's pads."
I think Bryant is missing the bigger point. Pride has a way of convincing us that we're too valuable and important to do certain things. I believe he will suffer longer term consequences for this choice. He is part of a team. He will never win a game alone, unless he snaps the ball to himself, drops back to pass, launches a deep pass, and in a Forrest Gump-like manner, runs underneath his own pass, catches it in dramatic style, and runs for a touchdown. If that happens, you've got an ESPN top 10 moment. I don't see that happening.
In the Christian life, we need to remember this as well. Jesus Christ came to earth, not as the triumphant King, but as a servant. He came to seek and to save that which was lost. He gave His life for us. He also gave us the example to follow in so many ways, including washing the disciples' feet. Plus, He calls us to follow His example in serving others. This service demonstrates Christlike love, which will show others we are His disciples.
I'm living out this truth this week during Vacation Bible School at our church. First, I'm seeing many people serving the children and their families as we share Christ. As a staff member, I greatly appreciate their dedication and sacrifice to see Christ magnified and known. Second, God is reminding me personally of what being a servant is all about. It would be easy for me to sit back and relax and say, let others do the work and I'll just supervise. That doesn't work in the kingdom of God. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of serving others by moving furniture, playing with kids, encouraging those already serving, being willing to be in the background while others lead, and more. I praise Him for how He's developing our VBS team for His glory.
I don't want this to sound prideful in any way, because God is humbling me in so many ways. It's just a testimony of how He's raising up others to serve and lead, while teaching me that it's not all about me. Praise the Lord for that! I'll never be ready to do it all myself. Trust me - I've tried.....and failed. But I love seeing God work in His people for His purpose. And that can only lead to God-sized results. To God be the glory!
Pastor Randy
Anyone who knows much of anything about the NFL knows that rookies normally endure some hazing during their first training camp. It's a rite of passage as these new players become part of the team. In this case, Roy WIlliams, one of the starting receivers, wanted Bryant to carry his pads after practice. Given some of the things rookies are typically asked to do, this wasn't too bad. Bryant responded:
"I'm not doing it," Bryant said. "I feel like I was drafted to play football, not carry another player's pads. If I was a free agent, it would still be the same thing. I just feel like I'm here to play football. I'm here to try to help win a championship, not carry someone's pads."
I think Bryant is missing the bigger point. Pride has a way of convincing us that we're too valuable and important to do certain things. I believe he will suffer longer term consequences for this choice. He is part of a team. He will never win a game alone, unless he snaps the ball to himself, drops back to pass, launches a deep pass, and in a Forrest Gump-like manner, runs underneath his own pass, catches it in dramatic style, and runs for a touchdown. If that happens, you've got an ESPN top 10 moment. I don't see that happening.
In the Christian life, we need to remember this as well. Jesus Christ came to earth, not as the triumphant King, but as a servant. He came to seek and to save that which was lost. He gave His life for us. He also gave us the example to follow in so many ways, including washing the disciples' feet. Plus, He calls us to follow His example in serving others. This service demonstrates Christlike love, which will show others we are His disciples.
I'm living out this truth this week during Vacation Bible School at our church. First, I'm seeing many people serving the children and their families as we share Christ. As a staff member, I greatly appreciate their dedication and sacrifice to see Christ magnified and known. Second, God is reminding me personally of what being a servant is all about. It would be easy for me to sit back and relax and say, let others do the work and I'll just supervise. That doesn't work in the kingdom of God. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of serving others by moving furniture, playing with kids, encouraging those already serving, being willing to be in the background while others lead, and more. I praise Him for how He's developing our VBS team for His glory.
I don't want this to sound prideful in any way, because God is humbling me in so many ways. It's just a testimony of how He's raising up others to serve and lead, while teaching me that it's not all about me. Praise the Lord for that! I'll never be ready to do it all myself. Trust me - I've tried.....and failed. But I love seeing God work in His people for His purpose. And that can only lead to God-sized results. To God be the glory!
Pastor Randy
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Bringing Up Boys
I'd appreciate your prayers as I make plans soon to take my son, Daniel, on his initial boys' weekend. He is 11 years old (will be 12 in only about 2 months), and I believe it's time to have "the talk" with him. I know he has a lot of questions to ask. And I need to finalize my list of important topics as well.
We did this with our girls at the same age, but my wife Felicia handled those weekends. And she is much smarter than me anyway. So I've got my work cut out for me. My plan is to cover some of the basics, answer all his questions truthfully, talk about purity & why it's important, give some wisdom on girls (who they are, how God made them, how they're different from boys, how guys should serve girls, how guys should honor girls, etc.), talk a little about marriage & how God designed it, relate that discussion to the idea of dating & how to approach it, talk a little about sex & how God designed it only for marriage, briefly warn him about the dangers involved with premarital sex, see what the Bible says about the roles of men & women, discuss God's unique plan for Daniel, read a lot of Scripture together, pray together, and more as God leads. Now, that's a lot to cover in a few days. Which means we'll probably need a follow-up discussion or two along the way. Especially as I finalize the list of things to discuss with him.
Some of you may read this and wonder....what is he doing? My wife and I strongly believe that we own the responsibility to raise our children biblically. Part of that responsibility is to train them up in the areas of biblical manhood & womanhood and how to approach relationships with the opposite sex....before they are put in a position to make their choices without thinking clearly. I believe we've seen evidence of how this has profited our girls, and it's now time to train up our boys.
I confess that it was easier for me to manage this expectation when Felicia was doing all the work with the girls. But I know that God will provide for me as well. I'm trusting Him to do what only He can do....I'm just thankful for the opportunity to go along for the ride.
I'm thankful for all the godly men that the Lord has brought into my life that have encouraged me in this upcoming task. I pray that I will honor the Lord in my words and actions. I also pray that Daniel (and Matthew, too) will grow into a young man that desires to please God in all of his life.
Pastor Randy
We did this with our girls at the same age, but my wife Felicia handled those weekends. And she is much smarter than me anyway. So I've got my work cut out for me. My plan is to cover some of the basics, answer all his questions truthfully, talk about purity & why it's important, give some wisdom on girls (who they are, how God made them, how they're different from boys, how guys should serve girls, how guys should honor girls, etc.), talk a little about marriage & how God designed it, relate that discussion to the idea of dating & how to approach it, talk a little about sex & how God designed it only for marriage, briefly warn him about the dangers involved with premarital sex, see what the Bible says about the roles of men & women, discuss God's unique plan for Daniel, read a lot of Scripture together, pray together, and more as God leads. Now, that's a lot to cover in a few days. Which means we'll probably need a follow-up discussion or two along the way. Especially as I finalize the list of things to discuss with him.
Some of you may read this and wonder....what is he doing? My wife and I strongly believe that we own the responsibility to raise our children biblically. Part of that responsibility is to train them up in the areas of biblical manhood & womanhood and how to approach relationships with the opposite sex....before they are put in a position to make their choices without thinking clearly. I believe we've seen evidence of how this has profited our girls, and it's now time to train up our boys.
I confess that it was easier for me to manage this expectation when Felicia was doing all the work with the girls. But I know that God will provide for me as well. I'm trusting Him to do what only He can do....I'm just thankful for the opportunity to go along for the ride.
I'm thankful for all the godly men that the Lord has brought into my life that have encouraged me in this upcoming task. I pray that I will honor the Lord in my words and actions. I also pray that Daniel (and Matthew, too) will grow into a young man that desires to please God in all of his life.
Pastor Randy
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The Purpose of Man - Designed to Worship
I'm about finished with a book of compliations on worship by A.W. Tozer, called "The Purpose of Man". In an ongoing effort to promote teaching related to biblical worship, I decided to include some of Tozer's words that speak to the foundations of worship for the believer in Christ.
Tozer's words about worship also speak to the central themes of my recent message at Wakefield Baptist Church on June 13, "The Priority of Worship". For those of you who didn't catch the message, the three main points were, 1) worship must be centered on God, 2) worship must begin with the individual, and 3) worship must influence everything we do. If you're interested in more info on this message, let me know. As I mentioned in my message, if you're looking for a good, no nonsense book to read on worship, I highly recommend "My Heart's Desire", by David Jeremiah. It's a great read and speaks to what true worship is really all about.
Anyway, here's the info from Tozer (The Purpose of Man, pp. 127-132).
"The total life, the whole man and woman, must worship God. If you departmentalize your life and let certain parts worship God, but other parts do not worship God, then you are not worshiping God as you should. You carry worship inside your heart. You can have your worship with you. Worship pleasing to God saturates our whole being. I cannot departmentalize my life, worship God on Sunday and not worship Him on Monday. I cannot worship Him in my songs and displease Him in my business engagements. I cannot worship God in silence in the church on Sunday, to the sound of hymns, then go out on the next day and be displeasing to Him in my activities. Worship is not a spotlight focusing on one area of life. True worship, worship that is pleasing to God, radiates throughout a person's entire life."
May we all grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ through biblical worship.
Pastor Randy
Tozer's words about worship also speak to the central themes of my recent message at Wakefield Baptist Church on June 13, "The Priority of Worship". For those of you who didn't catch the message, the three main points were, 1) worship must be centered on God, 2) worship must begin with the individual, and 3) worship must influence everything we do. If you're interested in more info on this message, let me know. As I mentioned in my message, if you're looking for a good, no nonsense book to read on worship, I highly recommend "My Heart's Desire", by David Jeremiah. It's a great read and speaks to what true worship is really all about.
Anyway, here's the info from Tozer (The Purpose of Man, pp. 127-132).
"The total life, the whole man and woman, must worship God. If you departmentalize your life and let certain parts worship God, but other parts do not worship God, then you are not worshiping God as you should. You carry worship inside your heart. You can have your worship with you. Worship pleasing to God saturates our whole being. I cannot departmentalize my life, worship God on Sunday and not worship Him on Monday. I cannot worship Him in my songs and displease Him in my business engagements. I cannot worship God in silence in the church on Sunday, to the sound of hymns, then go out on the next day and be displeasing to Him in my activities. Worship is not a spotlight focusing on one area of life. True worship, worship that is pleasing to God, radiates throughout a person's entire life."
May we all grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ through biblical worship.
Pastor Randy
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Top 10 Lists
Some randomness while I'm enjoying time with my family at the lake over Memorial Day weekend.....Just top 10's to me.....probably not to the world in general. Enjoy.
Top 10 Restaurants:
10. Andy's Cheesesteaks
9. Most any Mexican restaurant (all about the same)
8. Most any Chinese restaurant (all about the same)
7. Pizza Hut (altho their delivery is suspect at times)
6. Kanki
5. Wendy's
4. McDonalds (mostly for breakfast)
3. Pei Wei
2. Olive Garden
1. Chick-Fil-A
Top 10 Movies:
10. The Lion King
9. Second Chance (w/Michael W. Smith, etc.)
8. The Blind Side
7. Facing the Giants
6. Caddyshack
5. The Terminator Movies
4. Armageddon
3. Rudy
2. The Bourne Movies
1. Remember the Titans
Top 10 Favorite Cartoon Characters/Super Heroes:
10. Mermaid Man & Barnacle Boy
9. Mr. Incredible
8. Elmer Fudd
7. All of the Schoolhouse Rock Segments
6. Batman & Robin
5. Tom & Jerry
4. Buzz Lightyear
3. Superman
2. Spongebob Squarepants
1. Bugs Bunny
Top 10 Places I'd Like to Visit/Events to Attend:
10. Yellowstone
9. Any ACC tournament
8. American Idol Finale
7. Pebble Beach during a golf tournament
6. Key West, FL
5. Holy Land
4. Augusta National during The Masters
3. Grand Canyon
2. European vacation w/my wife
1. All important events involving my wife & kids
Top 10 Restaurants:
10. Andy's Cheesesteaks
9. Most any Mexican restaurant (all about the same)
8. Most any Chinese restaurant (all about the same)
7. Pizza Hut (altho their delivery is suspect at times)
6. Kanki
5. Wendy's
4. McDonalds (mostly for breakfast)
3. Pei Wei
2. Olive Garden
1. Chick-Fil-A
Top 10 Movies:
10. The Lion King
9. Second Chance (w/Michael W. Smith, etc.)
8. The Blind Side
7. Facing the Giants
6. Caddyshack
5. The Terminator Movies
4. Armageddon
3. Rudy
2. The Bourne Movies
1. Remember the Titans
Top 10 Favorite Cartoon Characters/Super Heroes:
10. Mermaid Man & Barnacle Boy
9. Mr. Incredible
8. Elmer Fudd
7. All of the Schoolhouse Rock Segments
6. Batman & Robin
5. Tom & Jerry
4. Buzz Lightyear
3. Superman
2. Spongebob Squarepants
1. Bugs Bunny
Top 10 Places I'd Like to Visit/Events to Attend:
10. Yellowstone
9. Any ACC tournament
8. American Idol Finale
7. Pebble Beach during a golf tournament
6. Key West, FL
5. Holy Land
4. Augusta National during The Masters
3. Grand Canyon
2. European vacation w/my wife
1. All important events involving my wife & kids
Saturday, May 22, 2010
A Message to My Students
Well, another school year is about to close, my 4th year at NRCA. God has taught me a lot personally this year. I pray that my students have learned a lot more about Pre-Algebra and Algebra than they knew before we started this journey. But I pray even more that they've learned more about Jesus Christ and His love for them.
As we enter the last full week of school, I wanted to leave a message for my students. I see some awesome potential in each of you. God has certainly gifted you richly in talents, abilities, spiritual gifts, and so much more. It's now up to you to decide how you're going to use these gifts for His glory. I certainly believe the sky is the limit for you, as long as you keep your eyes fixed on Christ. Galatians 5:16 says, "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."
I pray also that you've seen even a little bit of Christ in my life each day we've spent together. I know there have been days when my flesh got in the way of you seeing Him. I've apologized to you at times when I knew I was wrong. But I hope you've seen and heard about the one true and living God, the One who saved me and is making me more like His Son everyday. I pray you've seen that a holy, righteous life doesn't happen overnight - it's a lifetime process. I'm certainly living proof of that. But He gives more grace to those who humble themselves in His sight. That fact helps me get up every morning and face the day.
All of you can feel free to stop by to see Mr. B. anytime. I'd love to see you and hear how God is working in your life, both in school and out. Feel free to keep me updated through Facebook as well. Know that even though I will not have the pleasure of seeing you everyday in class, you'll still be in my prayers often. If I can ever do anything to help you or minister to you, please don't hesitate to come see me.
Pastor Randy (aka, Mr. B.)
As we enter the last full week of school, I wanted to leave a message for my students. I see some awesome potential in each of you. God has certainly gifted you richly in talents, abilities, spiritual gifts, and so much more. It's now up to you to decide how you're going to use these gifts for His glory. I certainly believe the sky is the limit for you, as long as you keep your eyes fixed on Christ. Galatians 5:16 says, "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."
I pray also that you've seen even a little bit of Christ in my life each day we've spent together. I know there have been days when my flesh got in the way of you seeing Him. I've apologized to you at times when I knew I was wrong. But I hope you've seen and heard about the one true and living God, the One who saved me and is making me more like His Son everyday. I pray you've seen that a holy, righteous life doesn't happen overnight - it's a lifetime process. I'm certainly living proof of that. But He gives more grace to those who humble themselves in His sight. That fact helps me get up every morning and face the day.
All of you can feel free to stop by to see Mr. B. anytime. I'd love to see you and hear how God is working in your life, both in school and out. Feel free to keep me updated through Facebook as well. Know that even though I will not have the pleasure of seeing you everyday in class, you'll still be in my prayers often. If I can ever do anything to help you or minister to you, please don't hesitate to come see me.
Pastor Randy (aka, Mr. B.)
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Priority of Worship - A Ministry Vision (Part 2)
Be sure you read part 1.......now continuing......
Worship must not only be proper, it must be personal. That again relates to being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ (see Rom. 12:1-2). The word in the Romans passage for "transformed" is the word that gives us our word, "metamorphosis". This means a change from within. I like to think of this like the old TV show, "The Incredible Hulk". Bill Bixby was transformed into the Hulk because of something that changed him from within. The same must be true of believers, transformed by God's power through salvation in Christ.
Relating to worship, that means you can't rely on what I do on Sunday morning (i.e., what I say, the music I select/sing, the Scripture I read, etc.) to generate worship in you. Neither can I. Proper, personal worship requires that we are prepared ahead of time, transformed by God and ready to demonstrate outwardly what God has ALREADY DONE inwardly.
Worship must be proper, personal and lastly, purposeful. Our worship must have a purpose - to glorify God. We exist and were created to glorify God. Scripture commands it - "love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" (Matt. 22:37). As the song says, we were made for worship. God expects nothing less from us, worship that is pleasing to Him....and focused on Him. He is the audience of our worship. Anything in our lives or in corporate worship that takes the focus off of God will impact us and others negatively.
The one fact in the Mark 12 passage that I can't forget is this - Jesus was watching the treasury. He knew how much each person gave and knew the heart and motives of each one. He knows if we are being faithful in living a lifestyle of worship. Who is the audience of your worship? Are you living a life that demonstrates worship to God? He demands only the best from us. Let's give it to Him now and always.
Based on all of this, here are some key vision statements I use in church worship ministry.
The worship ministry of the church will be successful when:
1. Our passion for God is greater than that for performance.
2. Faithfulness is as important as talent.
3. Preparation for worship is valued more than musical styles.
4. Our ministry focus is not limited to the walls of the church.
5. We have cooperation instead of competition.
6. Lasting obedience is greater than momentary emotion.
Worshp Ministry Goals:
1. Honor the Lord in everything we do in ministry.
2. Train & equip the body for personal, family & corporate worship.
3. Implement a blended worship style that emphasizes message first, then variety.
4. Focus on organization & structure under the leadership of the Spirit.
5. Strive for significant, measurable growth numerically & spiritually in all ministries.
6. Faithfully develop the musical abilities of every ministry group.
7. Develop leadership to help grow the ministry.
May God be glorified as I grow in Him and become equipped to lead & serve others.
Pastor Randy
Worship must not only be proper, it must be personal. That again relates to being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ (see Rom. 12:1-2). The word in the Romans passage for "transformed" is the word that gives us our word, "metamorphosis". This means a change from within. I like to think of this like the old TV show, "The Incredible Hulk". Bill Bixby was transformed into the Hulk because of something that changed him from within. The same must be true of believers, transformed by God's power through salvation in Christ.
Relating to worship, that means you can't rely on what I do on Sunday morning (i.e., what I say, the music I select/sing, the Scripture I read, etc.) to generate worship in you. Neither can I. Proper, personal worship requires that we are prepared ahead of time, transformed by God and ready to demonstrate outwardly what God has ALREADY DONE inwardly.
Worship must be proper, personal and lastly, purposeful. Our worship must have a purpose - to glorify God. We exist and were created to glorify God. Scripture commands it - "love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" (Matt. 22:37). As the song says, we were made for worship. God expects nothing less from us, worship that is pleasing to Him....and focused on Him. He is the audience of our worship. Anything in our lives or in corporate worship that takes the focus off of God will impact us and others negatively.
The one fact in the Mark 12 passage that I can't forget is this - Jesus was watching the treasury. He knew how much each person gave and knew the heart and motives of each one. He knows if we are being faithful in living a lifestyle of worship. Who is the audience of your worship? Are you living a life that demonstrates worship to God? He demands only the best from us. Let's give it to Him now and always.
Based on all of this, here are some key vision statements I use in church worship ministry.
The worship ministry of the church will be successful when:
1. Our passion for God is greater than that for performance.
2. Faithfulness is as important as talent.
3. Preparation for worship is valued more than musical styles.
4. Our ministry focus is not limited to the walls of the church.
5. We have cooperation instead of competition.
6. Lasting obedience is greater than momentary emotion.
Worshp Ministry Goals:
1. Honor the Lord in everything we do in ministry.
2. Train & equip the body for personal, family & corporate worship.
3. Implement a blended worship style that emphasizes message first, then variety.
4. Focus on organization & structure under the leadership of the Spirit.
5. Strive for significant, measurable growth numerically & spiritually in all ministries.
6. Faithfully develop the musical abilities of every ministry group.
7. Develop leadership to help grow the ministry.
May God be glorified as I grow in Him and become equipped to lead & serve others.
Pastor Randy
The Priority of Worship - A Ministry Vision (Part 1)
I have served in worship ministry for about 15 years, either as a pastor or in lay ministry. God has taught me a lot during that time about worship. Most of His lessons have shown me that worship is a lot less about what we do on Sunday morning than what we do every day in a lifestyle of worship that is surrendered to Him. I believe that if my life is an act of worship to God, then leading worship on Sunday mornings will be much easier.
I'd like to share some thoughts on the prioirty of worship and relate them to the ministry vision God has given me in serving in the local church. I'll do this in two parts: first, show how Scripture teaches us about worship (part 1), then how that relates to application in worship ministry in the church (part 2).
There are many passages of Scripture that deal with worship, both directly and indirectly. One of the passages I like is Mark 12:41-44. This is the passage about the poor widow who gives all she has into the treasury in the temple. The basic story goes like this - a poor widow comes in and gives two mites, all she had to live on. The disciples then get a lesson directly from Jesus about how the widow had sacrificed all she had.
Here's an outline of this passage that can teach us about the priority of worship. First, we must have proper worship, which has the following characteristics:
1. Proper worship is seen privately, not publically.
2. Proper worship is given sacrifically, not sparingly.
3. Proper worship is driven by a changed life, not emotions or circumstances.
Now, some thoughts on these using the passage in Mark. Proper worship is seen privately. That doesn't mean we never worship publically (like we do in corporate worship), but it does mean it begins individually and in your own heart. There were many people lavishing gifts into the treasury (v. 41), but the widow's offering went largely undetected, except by Jesus, who had to call the disciples' attention to it (v. 43). You also see this in the context of the passage (see vv.38-40), where Jesus cautioned about our motives in worship. God isn't impressed w/outward expressions of worship that do not come from a changed heart. I believe that proper, genuine worship can only be public after it has been manifested privately.
Next, proper worship requires sacrifice and isn't offered sparingly. The widow gave all she had to live on. If you do a study on what she gave, you find it represented much less than a day's wages. The word "poor" in the original language indicates extreme poverty - she should have been given charity from others. But instead, she gave her whole livelihood to the Lord. Those who poured money into the treasury only gave what they could spare. Think about it - even the OT sacrifical system was NEVER meant to replace living an obedient life (see 1 Sam. 15). God requires all of us in proper worship, and that has a lot more to do with how we live all week, not just what we do on Sunday morning.
Finally, proper worship is driven by a changed life. God has changed us as believers (see Rom. 12:1-2). That changes compels us to become more like Christ everyday. Jesus tells the disciples that the widow gave everything, trusting in the Lord for all she needed (v. 44). We must never be driven to worship only with emotions and circumstances. Those things change constantly. Only what is true and faithful in the Lord will remain. The Romans passage says it all - "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.....do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." The NIV says that this is our "spiritual act of worship" to God. Trust me - God can see us inside & out. He knows if our worship is proper and pleasing to Him.
In summary, genuine worship is always transformational. It was never meant to be a Sunday-only experience. It is a moment-by-moment relationship w/God that lasts all week long. It's personal, a one-on-one with God. If this happens, then Sunday morning corporate worship will never be the same.
Pastor Randy
I'd like to share some thoughts on the prioirty of worship and relate them to the ministry vision God has given me in serving in the local church. I'll do this in two parts: first, show how Scripture teaches us about worship (part 1), then how that relates to application in worship ministry in the church (part 2).
There are many passages of Scripture that deal with worship, both directly and indirectly. One of the passages I like is Mark 12:41-44. This is the passage about the poor widow who gives all she has into the treasury in the temple. The basic story goes like this - a poor widow comes in and gives two mites, all she had to live on. The disciples then get a lesson directly from Jesus about how the widow had sacrificed all she had.
Here's an outline of this passage that can teach us about the priority of worship. First, we must have proper worship, which has the following characteristics:
1. Proper worship is seen privately, not publically.
2. Proper worship is given sacrifically, not sparingly.
3. Proper worship is driven by a changed life, not emotions or circumstances.
Now, some thoughts on these using the passage in Mark. Proper worship is seen privately. That doesn't mean we never worship publically (like we do in corporate worship), but it does mean it begins individually and in your own heart. There were many people lavishing gifts into the treasury (v. 41), but the widow's offering went largely undetected, except by Jesus, who had to call the disciples' attention to it (v. 43). You also see this in the context of the passage (see vv.38-40), where Jesus cautioned about our motives in worship. God isn't impressed w/outward expressions of worship that do not come from a changed heart. I believe that proper, genuine worship can only be public after it has been manifested privately.
Next, proper worship requires sacrifice and isn't offered sparingly. The widow gave all she had to live on. If you do a study on what she gave, you find it represented much less than a day's wages. The word "poor" in the original language indicates extreme poverty - she should have been given charity from others. But instead, she gave her whole livelihood to the Lord. Those who poured money into the treasury only gave what they could spare. Think about it - even the OT sacrifical system was NEVER meant to replace living an obedient life (see 1 Sam. 15). God requires all of us in proper worship, and that has a lot more to do with how we live all week, not just what we do on Sunday morning.
Finally, proper worship is driven by a changed life. God has changed us as believers (see Rom. 12:1-2). That changes compels us to become more like Christ everyday. Jesus tells the disciples that the widow gave everything, trusting in the Lord for all she needed (v. 44). We must never be driven to worship only with emotions and circumstances. Those things change constantly. Only what is true and faithful in the Lord will remain. The Romans passage says it all - "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.....do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." The NIV says that this is our "spiritual act of worship" to God. Trust me - God can see us inside & out. He knows if our worship is proper and pleasing to Him.
In summary, genuine worship is always transformational. It was never meant to be a Sunday-only experience. It is a moment-by-moment relationship w/God that lasts all week long. It's personal, a one-on-one with God. If this happens, then Sunday morning corporate worship will never be the same.
Pastor Randy
Friday, May 7, 2010
Mother's Day
I've already blogged about my mom before....check out the archives for more on that.
I want to also brag on my wonderful wife, who also will celebrate Mother's Day this coming weekend. I was at a wedding rehearsal tonight, helping one of our church families with their wedding this weekend. As I watched the events of the rehearsal unfold, I was reminded of my own wedding day.
It was almost 22 years ago when that day arrived. I remember well standing in front of the sanctuary at Hayes Barton Baptist Church in Raleigh, waiting for the organ to begin playing, and waiting for Felicia to walk down the aisle. I confess that when the doors were opened and I saw her, I cried. She joined me at the front, and we both began a journey in God's strength that continues to this day.
And now, almost 22 years later, we've seen God do some awesome things in our marriage and family. Felicia is a wonderful wife, and mother to our four children. She compliments me so well in both my school and church ministries. She sacrificed her own career when Megan was born to be a stay-at-home mom, and did this for 15 years or so. Then she gladly re-entered the work force when God called me to NRCA to teach, so we could help make ends meet. She is constantly filling the gap with whatever is needed at the time. Any success I have in ministry is a direct result of her support and encouragement of me.
My wife is a daily testimony to me and our family. And this blog entry is just one way to tell her how much I love her. To God be the glory for what He has done through her. But thank you, Lord, for giving her to me.
Pastor Randy
I want to also brag on my wonderful wife, who also will celebrate Mother's Day this coming weekend. I was at a wedding rehearsal tonight, helping one of our church families with their wedding this weekend. As I watched the events of the rehearsal unfold, I was reminded of my own wedding day.
It was almost 22 years ago when that day arrived. I remember well standing in front of the sanctuary at Hayes Barton Baptist Church in Raleigh, waiting for the organ to begin playing, and waiting for Felicia to walk down the aisle. I confess that when the doors were opened and I saw her, I cried. She joined me at the front, and we both began a journey in God's strength that continues to this day.
And now, almost 22 years later, we've seen God do some awesome things in our marriage and family. Felicia is a wonderful wife, and mother to our four children. She compliments me so well in both my school and church ministries. She sacrificed her own career when Megan was born to be a stay-at-home mom, and did this for 15 years or so. Then she gladly re-entered the work force when God called me to NRCA to teach, so we could help make ends meet. She is constantly filling the gap with whatever is needed at the time. Any success I have in ministry is a direct result of her support and encouragement of me.
My wife is a daily testimony to me and our family. And this blog entry is just one way to tell her how much I love her. To God be the glory for what He has done through her. But thank you, Lord, for giving her to me.
Pastor Randy
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Be an Encourager - The One Encouraged Might Just Be You
I find that God is regularly providing opportunities for me to be an encouragement to others. Sometimes I miss them or get distracted with my own issues. But when I'm paying attention to the prompting of the Spirit, and obeying His leadings, then people get encouraged.
One of the books I'm reading now (Spiritual Leadership, by Henry & Richard Blackaby) provided another dose of encouragement to me tonight about, well, encouragement. Blackaby says that spiritual leaders constantly look to recognize the success of others and give encouragement and support as well. To take this a step further, I believe it's also important to encourage others in their growing relationship with the Lord. We are to seek to glorify God in all that we are and all that we do. Giving encouragement to one another helps us succeed in this goal.
What typically happens is this - when you encourage someone else, it usually comes right back to you. It may be simply in the satisfaction of being an encourager to someone who needs it. The Lord may also measure it back to you through the encouragement of someone else. Either way, both parties win.
I received some nice, timely encouragement through an email tonight. God knew what I had been struggling with this week, and he used a specific person to give me the encouragement I needed tonight to keep the faith and keep fighting the fight. Man, God is good!
So, here's my encouragement to you. Pray and ask the Lord to give you a list of five (5) people you know that you can encourage in the next 48 hours. Then, pray about ways to give that encouragement - phone call, email, card, letter, visit, make a meal, etc. Finally, go and give the encouragement.
Do all this as unto the Lord. Fully pleasing Him, not to bring glory to yourself, not expecting anything in return. And watch what God can do, for the ones you encourage - and probably for yourself as well.
Pastor Randy
One of the books I'm reading now (Spiritual Leadership, by Henry & Richard Blackaby) provided another dose of encouragement to me tonight about, well, encouragement. Blackaby says that spiritual leaders constantly look to recognize the success of others and give encouragement and support as well. To take this a step further, I believe it's also important to encourage others in their growing relationship with the Lord. We are to seek to glorify God in all that we are and all that we do. Giving encouragement to one another helps us succeed in this goal.
What typically happens is this - when you encourage someone else, it usually comes right back to you. It may be simply in the satisfaction of being an encourager to someone who needs it. The Lord may also measure it back to you through the encouragement of someone else. Either way, both parties win.
I received some nice, timely encouragement through an email tonight. God knew what I had been struggling with this week, and he used a specific person to give me the encouragement I needed tonight to keep the faith and keep fighting the fight. Man, God is good!
So, here's my encouragement to you. Pray and ask the Lord to give you a list of five (5) people you know that you can encourage in the next 48 hours. Then, pray about ways to give that encouragement - phone call, email, card, letter, visit, make a meal, etc. Finally, go and give the encouragement.
Do all this as unto the Lord. Fully pleasing Him, not to bring glory to yourself, not expecting anything in return. And watch what God can do, for the ones you encourage - and probably for yourself as well.
Pastor Randy
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Ramblings of a Man on Spring Break - Part 2
More things I think......
Study Your Letters
Another question I asked my students today: "how many of you NEVER study for an Algebra test or quiz?". Not surprisingly, the majority of them raised their hands. Now, some of them are making A's in my class - but some are not. My next question: "when will you know that you need to study math?". My students' answer: "when I start failing". Way wrong answer! If you wait until you're failing to start studying, you'll already be way behind. And, more importantly, you really won't know how to study. Create the right habits now, not later. Don't make me come over there.....!
A Passage of Scripture that will Change Your Life
Read Mark 9:14-29. I mean really read it, meditate on it, pray on it, listen to what God says. Wrestle with verses 23-24: "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes....Lord, I believe; help my unbelief."
American Idol Finale
Remember - you heard it here first. The finale will be Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze. I think Lee is finally getting it. Look for Lee to win in a shocker.
Healthcare Reform....and Other Nonsense
I agree we need reform....but not Obamacare. But my bigger concern - our country is spending money it doesn't have. Trust me - when I spend money I don't have, God brings the hammer down on me. What if he brought the smack down on our country for doing the same? Just saying......
My Kindergarten Poem
Funny the things you never forget.....this was my poem I recited at my Kindergarten graduation ceremony. I don't really remember much else from then, but anyway.....
F is for fish that you catch in the lake. When mommy fries them, what a good meal they make.
Ok, stop laughing.....
Pastor Randy
Study Your Letters
Another question I asked my students today: "how many of you NEVER study for an Algebra test or quiz?". Not surprisingly, the majority of them raised their hands. Now, some of them are making A's in my class - but some are not. My next question: "when will you know that you need to study math?". My students' answer: "when I start failing". Way wrong answer! If you wait until you're failing to start studying, you'll already be way behind. And, more importantly, you really won't know how to study. Create the right habits now, not later. Don't make me come over there.....!
A Passage of Scripture that will Change Your Life
Read Mark 9:14-29. I mean really read it, meditate on it, pray on it, listen to what God says. Wrestle with verses 23-24: "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes....Lord, I believe; help my unbelief."
American Idol Finale
Remember - you heard it here first. The finale will be Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze. I think Lee is finally getting it. Look for Lee to win in a shocker.
Healthcare Reform....and Other Nonsense
I agree we need reform....but not Obamacare. But my bigger concern - our country is spending money it doesn't have. Trust me - when I spend money I don't have, God brings the hammer down on me. What if he brought the smack down on our country for doing the same? Just saying......
My Kindergarten Poem
Funny the things you never forget.....this was my poem I recited at my Kindergarten graduation ceremony. I don't really remember much else from then, but anyway.....
F is for fish that you catch in the lake. When mommy fries them, what a good meal they make.
Ok, stop laughing.....
Pastor Randy
Ramblings of a Man on Spring Break
Some things I think.............
Don't Blame the Clown
There was a news story this week that said people were protesting against McDonald's. Seems they think that Ronald McDonald is to blame for childhood obesity. I guess the idea is that Ronald makes those children obsess with hamburgers and fries. Well, here's a news flash - those children can't drive themselves to McDonald's, they don't have the money to buy the happy meals, and they are certainly only acting their age. What about you parents? Who's fault is it anyway when the kids eat too many burgers and fries? Just one more way that parents are not owning up to their responsibilities. Please, don't blame the clown.
Math Rules
I asked my math students today to answer this question: can you live in a world without math? As there are in every crowd, a few students wanted to argue with me and answer this question "yes". But with every argument, I think I proved that the world God made is influenced in some way by math. Some things are obvious, some take a little more thought. God made math - not entirely sure on what day (a little ministers joke, ha ha!). We can see it woven throughout all of creation. You rock, God!
Humbled for God's Glory
God continues to humble me under His mighty, powerful hand. Webster defines humble this way: not proud, not arrogant, reflecting a spirit of submission. Yep, that's what He's doing in me! In pretty much all of my life. Sometimes the weight seems hard to bear - but that's when I learn more about trusting His strength. Pour it on, Lord!
Powerful Worship Song
Just bought the new Passion CD, Awakening. Bought it mainly for new Chris Tomlin song, "Our God". Here's some of the text - I'd like to sing it in worship at WBC soon.
Water You turned into wine, opened the eyes of the blind
There's no one like You, none like You
Into darkness You shine, out of the ashes we rise
There's no one like You, none like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger
God, You are higher than any other
Our God is healer, awesome in power
Our God, our God
Pastor Randy
Don't Blame the Clown
There was a news story this week that said people were protesting against McDonald's. Seems they think that Ronald McDonald is to blame for childhood obesity. I guess the idea is that Ronald makes those children obsess with hamburgers and fries. Well, here's a news flash - those children can't drive themselves to McDonald's, they don't have the money to buy the happy meals, and they are certainly only acting their age. What about you parents? Who's fault is it anyway when the kids eat too many burgers and fries? Just one more way that parents are not owning up to their responsibilities. Please, don't blame the clown.
Math Rules
I asked my math students today to answer this question: can you live in a world without math? As there are in every crowd, a few students wanted to argue with me and answer this question "yes". But with every argument, I think I proved that the world God made is influenced in some way by math. Some things are obvious, some take a little more thought. God made math - not entirely sure on what day (a little ministers joke, ha ha!). We can see it woven throughout all of creation. You rock, God!
Humbled for God's Glory
God continues to humble me under His mighty, powerful hand. Webster defines humble this way: not proud, not arrogant, reflecting a spirit of submission. Yep, that's what He's doing in me! In pretty much all of my life. Sometimes the weight seems hard to bear - but that's when I learn more about trusting His strength. Pour it on, Lord!
Powerful Worship Song
Just bought the new Passion CD, Awakening. Bought it mainly for new Chris Tomlin song, "Our God". Here's some of the text - I'd like to sing it in worship at WBC soon.
Water You turned into wine, opened the eyes of the blind
There's no one like You, none like You
Into darkness You shine, out of the ashes we rise
There's no one like You, none like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger
God, You are higher than any other
Our God is healer, awesome in power
Our God, our God
Pastor Randy
Thursday, March 25, 2010
In You Alone
As a worship leader, I am always grateful for the text of the songs that God provides for corporate worship. Too often we get caught up in the tempo or style and miss some incredible text.
One of my all-time favorite Christian artists is Steve Green. When I first started singing in a church, I always chose to sing his music. Even though my music has now stretched into new areas as well, I will always have a soft spot in my heart for Steve's music. One of his songs, titled "In You Alone", has some of the most incredible text I've ever encountered. The words of this song literally leap from the page and speak to me of God's amazing power and provision in even the most difficult circumstances.
To me, the most powerful part of the song occurs with the statement: "when I reach the end, You are just beginning". These words are a harsh reflection of me so many times. I think I have the answers to any situation that comes my way. Then, when I reach the end of where my strength, my ability, my intelligence, my everything can take me, God is just beginning. That's because He has been waiting all that time, waiting for me to surrender everything to Him.
Here are the words of the song. May they be a ministry to you as well. May we all trust in the Lord with all that we are. For His glory - and our good.
When I am weak, You carry every burden
When I'm alone, You're just a breath away
When I am restless, You're the one who stills me
And where I fail, You always stay the same
When I am lost, Your rescue me from danger
And when I fall, You pick me up again
When I resist, You love past my defenses
And though I stray, You're patient to the end
In You alone, I lifted up to heaven
In You alone, I soar on borrowed wings
When I reach the end, You are just beginning
In You alone, I find all that I need
Pastor Randy
One of my all-time favorite Christian artists is Steve Green. When I first started singing in a church, I always chose to sing his music. Even though my music has now stretched into new areas as well, I will always have a soft spot in my heart for Steve's music. One of his songs, titled "In You Alone", has some of the most incredible text I've ever encountered. The words of this song literally leap from the page and speak to me of God's amazing power and provision in even the most difficult circumstances.
To me, the most powerful part of the song occurs with the statement: "when I reach the end, You are just beginning". These words are a harsh reflection of me so many times. I think I have the answers to any situation that comes my way. Then, when I reach the end of where my strength, my ability, my intelligence, my everything can take me, God is just beginning. That's because He has been waiting all that time, waiting for me to surrender everything to Him.
Here are the words of the song. May they be a ministry to you as well. May we all trust in the Lord with all that we are. For His glory - and our good.
When I am weak, You carry every burden
When I'm alone, You're just a breath away
When I am restless, You're the one who stills me
And where I fail, You always stay the same
When I am lost, Your rescue me from danger
And when I fall, You pick me up again
When I resist, You love past my defenses
And though I stray, You're patient to the end
In You alone, I lifted up to heaven
In You alone, I soar on borrowed wings
When I reach the end, You are just beginning
In You alone, I find all that I need
Pastor Randy
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Holiness is what I long for
There's a song that basically says holiness is what I long for, holiness is what I need, holiness is what You (God) want from me. The song is "Take My Life", by Scott Underwood. The writer goes on to also talk about faithfulness and righteousness, in the same terms as holiness. According to Underwood, to see this holiness take place, here's what is required:
Take my heart and form it,
Take my mind and transform it,
Take my will and conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh Lord.
(Copyright 1995 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing. All rights reserved)
According to the Holman Bible Dictionary, holiness means to be set apart, to be spiritually pure, to be filled with the awesome power of God in the believer through the Holy Spirit. In fact, it says that "the idea of holy is important for an understanding of God, of worship, and of the people of God in the Bible". The Bible is very clear that God desires holiness in all believers (see 1 Peter 1:15-16).
As I reflect on Underwood's song, I realize several important things. God desires holiness from me. For me personally, as a believer in Jesus Christ, holiness is what I should long for, it's what I definitely need, and it's definitely what God wants from me. To get it requires God's work in my life. He must change or transform my heart, mind and will to His heart, mind and will. I'm reminded of how God commands this in Scripture (Romans 12:1-2). Here He calls us to "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God", calling this our "reasonable service", or like the NIV says, our "spiritual act of worship". We can only do this "by the mercies of God", not in our own strength. He goes on to say that we should "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind". Then we will be pleasing to Him.
I'm more convinced than ever that when we get a better understanding of worship, then holiness will begin to be more achieveable. True worship permeates all areas of our lives, and when we surrender everything to God and His will, we can start realizing true biblical holiness that is acceptable to Him.
Here is an article I encourage you to read from Between the Times. It also speaks on holiness and what we need to remember about it. I also encourage you to pray specifically today to the Lord about holiness. Ask Him to help you (as will I) to long for holiness and for Him to:
Take my heart and form it,
Take my mind and transform it,
Take my will and conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh Lord.
http://betweenthetimes.com/2010/02/20/abraham-booth-on-holiness-and-perseverance/
Pastor Randy
Take my heart and form it,
Take my mind and transform it,
Take my will and conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh Lord.
(Copyright 1995 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing. All rights reserved)
According to the Holman Bible Dictionary, holiness means to be set apart, to be spiritually pure, to be filled with the awesome power of God in the believer through the Holy Spirit. In fact, it says that "the idea of holy is important for an understanding of God, of worship, and of the people of God in the Bible". The Bible is very clear that God desires holiness in all believers (see 1 Peter 1:15-16).
As I reflect on Underwood's song, I realize several important things. God desires holiness from me. For me personally, as a believer in Jesus Christ, holiness is what I should long for, it's what I definitely need, and it's definitely what God wants from me. To get it requires God's work in my life. He must change or transform my heart, mind and will to His heart, mind and will. I'm reminded of how God commands this in Scripture (Romans 12:1-2). Here He calls us to "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God", calling this our "reasonable service", or like the NIV says, our "spiritual act of worship". We can only do this "by the mercies of God", not in our own strength. He goes on to say that we should "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind". Then we will be pleasing to Him.
I'm more convinced than ever that when we get a better understanding of worship, then holiness will begin to be more achieveable. True worship permeates all areas of our lives, and when we surrender everything to God and His will, we can start realizing true biblical holiness that is acceptable to Him.
Here is an article I encourage you to read from Between the Times. It also speaks on holiness and what we need to remember about it. I also encourage you to pray specifically today to the Lord about holiness. Ask Him to help you (as will I) to long for holiness and for Him to:
Take my heart and form it,
Take my mind and transform it,
Take my will and conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh Lord.
http://betweenthetimes.com/2010/02/20/abraham-booth-on-holiness-and-perseverance/
Pastor Randy
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Get Over It Already
So, there's been a lot of controversy in the news for a couple of weeks about the Focus on the Family commercial featuring Tim Tebow that will air during the Super Bowl. Here is an article about this from Baptist Press.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=32136
There have been a number of people and organizations that have lined up to protest this ad and to demand that CBS not air it. My response to these people: get over it already!
In most cases, no one in our pluralistic, tolerant, post-modern culture even bats an eye about the ridiculous things we often see on TV these days. There are too many worldly themes to count woven into our TV programs and commercials. These themes openly support such things as gay relationships/marriage, infidelity in marriage, murder, sex, sexually transmitted disease, open & applauded disobedience of the law & parents, abusive relationships & language, and a very negative view of churches & religion in general. Just to name a few things.
Now that someone wants to potentially stand up for something that a large number of Americans believe in (right to life), the wolves are coming out of the woods to complain and make ridiculous demands. I realize this is a characteristic of the culture we live in. But it's time for Christians to stand up for what is right.
I also recognize that this isn't very different from what I read in Acts 3-4. Peter & John heal a lame man, by God's power, and then they get arrested. They are arrested because everyone is seeing the obvious miracle that God has performed, and the name of Jesus Christ is being proclaimed. The net of the story is that when the Sanhedrin realize they can't really do anything about this, they threaten Peter & John. "So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus" (4:18). I like how they respond: "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." (4:19-20).
I can't wait to see the ad on Sunday. I'll be at church leading a Bible study, but I'll be sure we set the recorder before we leave. My prayer is that it will be a testimony for Christ that impacts the lives of many Americans. And I also pray that I can respond daily like Peter & John.
Pastor Randy
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=32136
There have been a number of people and organizations that have lined up to protest this ad and to demand that CBS not air it. My response to these people: get over it already!
In most cases, no one in our pluralistic, tolerant, post-modern culture even bats an eye about the ridiculous things we often see on TV these days. There are too many worldly themes to count woven into our TV programs and commercials. These themes openly support such things as gay relationships/marriage, infidelity in marriage, murder, sex, sexually transmitted disease, open & applauded disobedience of the law & parents, abusive relationships & language, and a very negative view of churches & religion in general. Just to name a few things.
Now that someone wants to potentially stand up for something that a large number of Americans believe in (right to life), the wolves are coming out of the woods to complain and make ridiculous demands. I realize this is a characteristic of the culture we live in. But it's time for Christians to stand up for what is right.
I also recognize that this isn't very different from what I read in Acts 3-4. Peter & John heal a lame man, by God's power, and then they get arrested. They are arrested because everyone is seeing the obvious miracle that God has performed, and the name of Jesus Christ is being proclaimed. The net of the story is that when the Sanhedrin realize they can't really do anything about this, they threaten Peter & John. "So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus" (4:18). I like how they respond: "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." (4:19-20).
I can't wait to see the ad on Sunday. I'll be at church leading a Bible study, but I'll be sure we set the recorder before we leave. My prayer is that it will be a testimony for Christ that impacts the lives of many Americans. And I also pray that I can respond daily like Peter & John.
Pastor Randy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)