For those who know me as a worship pastor, the word "roadmap" is an important one for me. I use a roadmap each week that I lead worship. It's not original with me - I got the idea from the man who mentored me in music ministry and worship leadership, Eric Bruton.
The idea is to try to write down all the elements of the weekly corporate worship service, including the parts of each song we're singing, transitions, notes for myself, important directions for our tech team, and much more. It serves as the roadmap for the service each week. However an important thing to remember is that it is only a guide. It represents my best efforts to prepare to lead our worship services well under the prayerful leadership of the Holy Spirit. That means if God decides to do something different, I still need to be ready and able to make any needed transitions to ensure we are faithful to follow Him. He, of course, is our worship leader, not me.
As I've been thinking over the last few days about New Year's Day, I think looking at 2013 also requires a roadmap. Many people make resolutions they rarely keep past the first week. A roadmap, at least as I've defined it, makes more sense to me. It represents a guide for my life in 2013, based entirely on what God is already doing in my life and where He's leading me to go. But it is also flexible, so if and when God speaks and moves me in a different direction, I am ready to go.
God has been working on me for some time now, particularly in the last six months. He's called me to make some difficult choices. He's challenged me to think about some things differently. He's reminded me of what's most important in my life. I'm getting a clearer picture of what He desires. I pray I keep listening and watching for what He desires for me.
So, here's my 2013 roadmap. I'll spare you all of the details and just hit the highlights. God is still filling in some of the blanks for me in terms of specific ways to measure my results.
1. Grow in a relationship with the Lord daily through Bible study, prayer & obedience.
2. Be a better pastor with my family - make this my top priority in ministry.
3. Select a few people who are willing to invest their lives into mine.
4. Continue investing my life into several young people who desire to serve in ministry.
5. Develop better personal habits to improve my testimony for the Lord.
6. Improve my efforts to be a life-long learner - in Bible study, music, ministry & teaching
7. Focus more on the ministry moments God provides in each day.
8. Be a pastor and teacher that makes a positive impact in the lives of others for God's glory.
9. Know when to say "no" in order to focus on God's best for me & those I serve.
10. Find new ways to get better organized to achieve all God desires for me.
Yes, I know that's a lot. But remember - it's not in my strength anyway. May it happen as God desires, and totally and only for His glory. Happy New Year!
Pastor Randy
Monday, December 31, 2012
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Giving Thanks
If you ask my family, they'll tell you it's quite unusual for me to be up at this time. It's 12:30am on Thursday, Nov. 22. Thanksgiving Day is here. We had a great dinner tonight (or rather, last night) with my brother and his family. Today, we give thanks for all God has done and given us. We'll spend time with family and friends, and even eat a good bit of turkey and all the things that go along with it. Not a bad way to spend the day.
I've seen many people posting their lists of what they're thankful for all month long. Many more will spend time around the dinner table today doing the same. I'm all for that, even if I didn't post all that I'm thankful for on Facebook or Twitter this year. But there's something I hope we don't miss - we should be thankful all year long. Every day. Good or bad. Happy or sad. Not just in November. Not just on Thanksgiving Day. But every day. I firmly believe that only God can do that in our lives. There are just too many ups and downs in this life.
I get the privilege of preaching at Wakefield Baptist Church this Sunday. In 1 Thess. 5:16-18, we are encouraged to rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks to God in everything. In fact, Paul tells us that doing this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. There is nothing in this passage that qualifies how or when this is to take place. That's because it's to happen all the time. Only God can give us that ability, starting with the love He shows us through salvation. Then He extends it through grace for every day. If we live a life of worship to Him, we will be able to fulfill these truths.
The title of the message on Sunday is "Throw Out Your Thanksgiving Leftovers". Here's the idea. You are probably like me, in that we love this day of Thanksgiving. Not only for the reminder to give thanks for everything, but also for the delicious food we'll get to eat. We'll also ask everyone sitting around the table to tell one thing they are thankful for. For the most part, we only eat this combination of food and ask for lists of thankfulness once a year - at Thanksgiving. We sit down at the table and dig in, enjoying the food so much, maybe too much! Then we put the leftovers in the refrigerator, which become lunches and dinners for what seems like an eternity. But one thing I've noticed about those leftovers - while they still taste pretty good in the few days after Thanksgiving, those meals are never the same as they are on Thanksgiving Day.
It seems we get so excited about Thanksgiving week and the Thanksgiving Day meal. The food tastes so good, and we are so thankful for it and everything else. Then we deal with leftovers, and the excitement isn't quite the same. The food doesn't taste quite the same. And the longer time passes from Thanksgiving, the less excited we get. God's Word tells us to rejoice ALWAYS, pray WITHOUT CEASING, and give thanks in EVERYTHING. I say that same excitement from Thanksgiving Day should carry over to every day of our lives. Again, that's the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. I say our lives should be filled with giving thanks, not just at the dinner table, but throughout each day.
So, throw out the Thanksgiving leftovers. Maybe not the food, at least for a few days. But throw out the leftovers that cause us to only give thanks when the calendar tells us to. Throw out the leftovers that allow our hearts to get bogged down with the troubles of life. Throw out the leftovers that cause us to take our eyes off the One who loves us and knows exactly what's best for us. Now, that's true Thanksgiving!
Pastor Randy
I've seen many people posting their lists of what they're thankful for all month long. Many more will spend time around the dinner table today doing the same. I'm all for that, even if I didn't post all that I'm thankful for on Facebook or Twitter this year. But there's something I hope we don't miss - we should be thankful all year long. Every day. Good or bad. Happy or sad. Not just in November. Not just on Thanksgiving Day. But every day. I firmly believe that only God can do that in our lives. There are just too many ups and downs in this life.
I get the privilege of preaching at Wakefield Baptist Church this Sunday. In 1 Thess. 5:16-18, we are encouraged to rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks to God in everything. In fact, Paul tells us that doing this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. There is nothing in this passage that qualifies how or when this is to take place. That's because it's to happen all the time. Only God can give us that ability, starting with the love He shows us through salvation. Then He extends it through grace for every day. If we live a life of worship to Him, we will be able to fulfill these truths.
The title of the message on Sunday is "Throw Out Your Thanksgiving Leftovers". Here's the idea. You are probably like me, in that we love this day of Thanksgiving. Not only for the reminder to give thanks for everything, but also for the delicious food we'll get to eat. We'll also ask everyone sitting around the table to tell one thing they are thankful for. For the most part, we only eat this combination of food and ask for lists of thankfulness once a year - at Thanksgiving. We sit down at the table and dig in, enjoying the food so much, maybe too much! Then we put the leftovers in the refrigerator, which become lunches and dinners for what seems like an eternity. But one thing I've noticed about those leftovers - while they still taste pretty good in the few days after Thanksgiving, those meals are never the same as they are on Thanksgiving Day.
It seems we get so excited about Thanksgiving week and the Thanksgiving Day meal. The food tastes so good, and we are so thankful for it and everything else. Then we deal with leftovers, and the excitement isn't quite the same. The food doesn't taste quite the same. And the longer time passes from Thanksgiving, the less excited we get. God's Word tells us to rejoice ALWAYS, pray WITHOUT CEASING, and give thanks in EVERYTHING. I say that same excitement from Thanksgiving Day should carry over to every day of our lives. Again, that's the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. I say our lives should be filled with giving thanks, not just at the dinner table, but throughout each day.
So, throw out the Thanksgiving leftovers. Maybe not the food, at least for a few days. But throw out the leftovers that cause us to only give thanks when the calendar tells us to. Throw out the leftovers that allow our hearts to get bogged down with the troubles of life. Throw out the leftovers that cause us to take our eyes off the One who loves us and knows exactly what's best for us. Now, that's true Thanksgiving!
Pastor Randy
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
So Much To Do, So Little Time
Well....I'm back. It's been a couple of months since my last post. While I've thought about writing again often, I've not had the time (or made the time) to sit down and do it. So, it's good to be back.
I've been overwhelmed for a while now by this: there's so much I'd like to do, but so little time to do it. Some things on my list are heavy, like finishing my masters degree. Some are almost as heavy, like doing more reading and study on being a better teacher. I've certainly got a good bit of info and material on that one, but it's just a matter of reading through it, thinking and praying over it, and deciding on a few things to try to do well. Then there's some lighter things, like just doing more reading in general across the board. Hey, I've even considered doing some more formal Christian writing...now that's really outside the box for me.
In trying to process all these "good" things, God has continued to remind me to focus on the "best" things. Those things that are consistent with His Word and His will for my life. He's reminded me that I will need to say "no" to some good things so I don't miss His best. This became especially true with two opportunities presented to me at school. These two things were something I have wanted to do for some time, but the opportunity had not presented itself. I desperately wanted to say "yes" to both of them. However, after much prayer and talking with Felicia, I declined the opportunities. As I considered them, God kept reminding me of other things that are more important in my life right now.
I was reminded of this again last Sunday, when our Pastor preached from Jonah. We as Christians get the idea that God will always open the door for what we should do and close the door for the rest. What we have to remember is that not every open door is God's will for us. That's why we pray and seek His face in all things. Then, when we have His leading and His peace, we proceed. I'm reminded of how even Paul in the New Testament knew he was in God's will even when there was tribulation and adversaries all around him.
So, I continue to seek the Lord in prayer and the reading of His Word. Trusting every decision, every choice to His good pleasure. Knowing that where He leads, there is peace and victory in all areas of life.
Pastor Randy
I've been overwhelmed for a while now by this: there's so much I'd like to do, but so little time to do it. Some things on my list are heavy, like finishing my masters degree. Some are almost as heavy, like doing more reading and study on being a better teacher. I've certainly got a good bit of info and material on that one, but it's just a matter of reading through it, thinking and praying over it, and deciding on a few things to try to do well. Then there's some lighter things, like just doing more reading in general across the board. Hey, I've even considered doing some more formal Christian writing...now that's really outside the box for me.
In trying to process all these "good" things, God has continued to remind me to focus on the "best" things. Those things that are consistent with His Word and His will for my life. He's reminded me that I will need to say "no" to some good things so I don't miss His best. This became especially true with two opportunities presented to me at school. These two things were something I have wanted to do for some time, but the opportunity had not presented itself. I desperately wanted to say "yes" to both of them. However, after much prayer and talking with Felicia, I declined the opportunities. As I considered them, God kept reminding me of other things that are more important in my life right now.
I was reminded of this again last Sunday, when our Pastor preached from Jonah. We as Christians get the idea that God will always open the door for what we should do and close the door for the rest. What we have to remember is that not every open door is God's will for us. That's why we pray and seek His face in all things. Then, when we have His leading and His peace, we proceed. I'm reminded of how even Paul in the New Testament knew he was in God's will even when there was tribulation and adversaries all around him.
So, I continue to seek the Lord in prayer and the reading of His Word. Trusting every decision, every choice to His good pleasure. Knowing that where He leads, there is peace and victory in all areas of life.
Pastor Randy
Monday, July 9, 2012
Bolivia Mission Trip
It's now been exactly one week since our mission team returned from Santa Cruz, Bolivia. I hesitated to blog about the trip right after we got home, just so everything that happened could sink in a little. I'm not going to write about a lot of the details of the trip. If you want to know more details, feel free to ask me personally. Rather, I'm going to hit a few highlights and talk about how I saw God working in Santa Cruz and what He's shown me.
What a great trip! This was my first overseas missions trip. I've traveled overseas before on business, and I've been on other mission trips in the US as well. So this one was very special to me. First, I am greatly thankful for all those who prayed and supported our team on this trip. Especially our church family at Wakefield. Thank you for your encouragement and financial support. I'm also thankful to our church staff for allowing me to be the team leader for this trip.
God is definitely working in Santa Cruz. Our work on the trip included time with middle school & high school students, university students, and residents in a local community where a church has been planted. We had the chance to go into a school to work and play with students in middle school and high school, showing them a video, asking them questions, teaching them a little English, playing basketball & volleyball with them, and sharing Jesus Christ in word and action. We also spent a lot of time with some university students who are studying English. We spent time helping them with English, and they helped translate for us when we spent time in the community. We also used the time to share about Christ and the Bible in many different ways. In addition, we worked with the church plant to share the Gospel with people in the community by using door-to-door evangelism and showing the Jesus film several times. Plus we got to experience a lot of the Bolivia culture and food, maybe too much of the food! But we had a great time and enjoyed being involved in God's work there.
I was so thankful for all the doors that God opened for us while in Bolivia. It was great to see how receptive the people in the community were to the Gospel, even being willing to stop what they were doing to talk to us or come see the film. The church there was alive and the people were willing to sacrifice of themselves and their possessions so Christ would be known. Their hospitality towards our team was overwhelming the entire week. To see some of the poverty around them, and then see them give so much to us, their very best in most cases, was humbling. It was an experience I will never forget. One family from the church opened his home repeatedly for meetings there. We invited people from the community to come and hear God's word proclaimed on several occasions. We were also pleased to see many Bolivians come to Christ that week. I lost count of how many there were. Our God is great!
Now that I'm home, I'm more burdened than ever about my own community. God calls us to go wherever He leads us, which includes the world, but also this includes the neighborhoods right out out front door. I've been challenged to reach out to my own neighbors more proactively with the Gospel. I've also been renewed in showing hospitality to others, being willing to give everything I have and everything I am to God's work, wherever He calls me to serve. Biblical stewardship is the responsibility of all believers. I want to be fully obedient to God in this area, being willing to give everything for His work and His glory. I own nothing - it's all His. Even my very life.
I pray God will give me another opportunity to visit Santa Cruz, if He desires. But I cannot wait for that opportunity to put into practice what He has already shown me. He has blessed me greatly, all for His purpose for me and for the kingdom work He desires me to join Him in.
Pastor Randy
What a great trip! This was my first overseas missions trip. I've traveled overseas before on business, and I've been on other mission trips in the US as well. So this one was very special to me. First, I am greatly thankful for all those who prayed and supported our team on this trip. Especially our church family at Wakefield. Thank you for your encouragement and financial support. I'm also thankful to our church staff for allowing me to be the team leader for this trip.
God is definitely working in Santa Cruz. Our work on the trip included time with middle school & high school students, university students, and residents in a local community where a church has been planted. We had the chance to go into a school to work and play with students in middle school and high school, showing them a video, asking them questions, teaching them a little English, playing basketball & volleyball with them, and sharing Jesus Christ in word and action. We also spent a lot of time with some university students who are studying English. We spent time helping them with English, and they helped translate for us when we spent time in the community. We also used the time to share about Christ and the Bible in many different ways. In addition, we worked with the church plant to share the Gospel with people in the community by using door-to-door evangelism and showing the Jesus film several times. Plus we got to experience a lot of the Bolivia culture and food, maybe too much of the food! But we had a great time and enjoyed being involved in God's work there.
I was so thankful for all the doors that God opened for us while in Bolivia. It was great to see how receptive the people in the community were to the Gospel, even being willing to stop what they were doing to talk to us or come see the film. The church there was alive and the people were willing to sacrifice of themselves and their possessions so Christ would be known. Their hospitality towards our team was overwhelming the entire week. To see some of the poverty around them, and then see them give so much to us, their very best in most cases, was humbling. It was an experience I will never forget. One family from the church opened his home repeatedly for meetings there. We invited people from the community to come and hear God's word proclaimed on several occasions. We were also pleased to see many Bolivians come to Christ that week. I lost count of how many there were. Our God is great!
Now that I'm home, I'm more burdened than ever about my own community. God calls us to go wherever He leads us, which includes the world, but also this includes the neighborhoods right out out front door. I've been challenged to reach out to my own neighbors more proactively with the Gospel. I've also been renewed in showing hospitality to others, being willing to give everything I have and everything I am to God's work, wherever He calls me to serve. Biblical stewardship is the responsibility of all believers. I want to be fully obedient to God in this area, being willing to give everything for His work and His glory. I own nothing - it's all His. Even my very life.
I pray God will give me another opportunity to visit Santa Cruz, if He desires. But I cannot wait for that opportunity to put into practice what He has already shown me. He has blessed me greatly, all for His purpose for me and for the kingdom work He desires me to join Him in.
Pastor Randy
Thursday, June 14, 2012
The 30 Day Worship Journey
So, here's part two - a challenge in biblical worship.
One of the things Louie Giglio talks about in his book, The Air I Breathe, has to do with taking a 30 Day Worship Journey. Giglio encourages the reader to carve out time each day for a month and meditate on one of the attributes of God. Then carry that attribute with you all day, continuing to meditate on it as you go through the day.
I'd like to modify that and challenge you to a slightly different journey, but one that is certainly consistent with Giglio's book. I encourage you to spend the next 30 days looking for areas of your life where you can demonstrate biblical worship.
Now, the Bible is clear - God wants us to do everything as an act of worship to Him. In fact, as Giglio and other writers tell us, we are to live lifestyles of worship. But I believe that all of us probably have some areas of our day or lives that we haven't fully surrendered to Him. We have to get to the point where we realize that we are called to do EVERYTHING as an act of worship to God.
Think about it - not just when we're at church, but also: work, home, school, grocery store, exercising, sports, playing with play dough, you name it. Worship is a 24 hours a day, 7 days as week deal. There's nothing it doesn't touch and affect.
So, the challenge is - get you something to write in, like a journal, notebook, napkin, or whatever. Start each day writing down a couple areas of your life, or specific things you're planning to do that day, and pray to God for His help in doing those things as an act of worship to Him. Keep praying through it all day. At the end of the day, go back to your journal or whatever and write down how it went, what you learned, how you will improve, etc. Then the next day, start again, but don't forget what you've already done previously. The idea isn't to do something as worship today, then go back to your old ways in that area tomorrow. Use this as an opportunity to grow and apply biblical worship in all of your life.
If you decide to take this challenge, feel free to contact me if I can help you (pastor_randy@nc.rr.com). Maybe it's just to pray for you as you do this. Maybe it's to support you with the Scriptures. Whatever it is, I'm glad to help. God demands worship from His followers. It's time we do what it takes, in His strength, to obey.
Pastor Randy
One of the things Louie Giglio talks about in his book, The Air I Breathe, has to do with taking a 30 Day Worship Journey. Giglio encourages the reader to carve out time each day for a month and meditate on one of the attributes of God. Then carry that attribute with you all day, continuing to meditate on it as you go through the day.
I'd like to modify that and challenge you to a slightly different journey, but one that is certainly consistent with Giglio's book. I encourage you to spend the next 30 days looking for areas of your life where you can demonstrate biblical worship.
Now, the Bible is clear - God wants us to do everything as an act of worship to Him. In fact, as Giglio and other writers tell us, we are to live lifestyles of worship. But I believe that all of us probably have some areas of our day or lives that we haven't fully surrendered to Him. We have to get to the point where we realize that we are called to do EVERYTHING as an act of worship to God.
Think about it - not just when we're at church, but also: work, home, school, grocery store, exercising, sports, playing with play dough, you name it. Worship is a 24 hours a day, 7 days as week deal. There's nothing it doesn't touch and affect.
So, the challenge is - get you something to write in, like a journal, notebook, napkin, or whatever. Start each day writing down a couple areas of your life, or specific things you're planning to do that day, and pray to God for His help in doing those things as an act of worship to Him. Keep praying through it all day. At the end of the day, go back to your journal or whatever and write down how it went, what you learned, how you will improve, etc. Then the next day, start again, but don't forget what you've already done previously. The idea isn't to do something as worship today, then go back to your old ways in that area tomorrow. Use this as an opportunity to grow and apply biblical worship in all of your life.
If you decide to take this challenge, feel free to contact me if I can help you (pastor_randy@nc.rr.com). Maybe it's just to pray for you as you do this. Maybe it's to support you with the Scriptures. Whatever it is, I'm glad to help. God demands worship from His followers. It's time we do what it takes, in His strength, to obey.
Pastor Randy
The Air I Breathe
I've just finished a book by one of my favorite authors on worship, Louie Giglio. The book is called, The Air I Breathe, and it's a great down-to-earth resource on what biblical worship is all about. I'd like to share some of the parts I outlined and then issue you a challenge based on it.
First, some of the sound bytes. In the next post, I'll give you the challenge.
You cannot help but worship something. It's what you were made to do.
Worship is our response to what we value most.
So how do you know where and what you worship? It's easy. You simply follow the trail of your time, your affection, your energy, your money, and your loyalty. At the end of that trail you'll find a throne, and whatever, or whomever, is on that throne is what 's of highest value to you. On that throne is what you worship.
Worship isn't just a Sunday thing. It's an all-the-time thing.
You and I were made by Him and made for Him. You and I exist for one purpose alone - to reflect back to God His matchless glory.
Worship is a whole-life response to God's greatness and glory.
Worship isn't something you attend, like a movie or a concert. Worship is something you enter into with all your might. Worship is a participation sport in a spectator culture.
Words come so easy. And saying (and singing) them makes us feel a little better about ourselves, even when our hearts don't back up the words coming from our lips.
God is no dummy. He knows what's going on in our hearts. And God knows how easy it is for us to say one thing and do another. That's why the true test of worship isn't so much what we say, but how we live.
Your attitude of worship can turn any mundane task into an offering to God.
We aren't designed to operate on a weekly worship cycle, but on a moment-by-moment connection of personal worship that's as much a part of our lives as the air we breathe.
Trust me, church is a lot better when our gatherings are filled with people who have been pursuing God for six days before they get there. Corporate worship works best when we arrive with something to offer God. Church is supposed to be a celebration of our personal journeys with God since we were last together.
What would happen if we came worshipping to church, filled with an awareness of His presence before we even reached the door?
Pastor Randy
First, some of the sound bytes. In the next post, I'll give you the challenge.
You cannot help but worship something. It's what you were made to do.
Worship is our response to what we value most.
So how do you know where and what you worship? It's easy. You simply follow the trail of your time, your affection, your energy, your money, and your loyalty. At the end of that trail you'll find a throne, and whatever, or whomever, is on that throne is what 's of highest value to you. On that throne is what you worship.
Worship isn't just a Sunday thing. It's an all-the-time thing.
You and I were made by Him and made for Him. You and I exist for one purpose alone - to reflect back to God His matchless glory.
Worship is a whole-life response to God's greatness and glory.
Worship isn't something you attend, like a movie or a concert. Worship is something you enter into with all your might. Worship is a participation sport in a spectator culture.
Words come so easy. And saying (and singing) them makes us feel a little better about ourselves, even when our hearts don't back up the words coming from our lips.
God is no dummy. He knows what's going on in our hearts. And God knows how easy it is for us to say one thing and do another. That's why the true test of worship isn't so much what we say, but how we live.
Your attitude of worship can turn any mundane task into an offering to God.
We aren't designed to operate on a weekly worship cycle, but on a moment-by-moment connection of personal worship that's as much a part of our lives as the air we breathe.
Trust me, church is a lot better when our gatherings are filled with people who have been pursuing God for six days before they get there. Corporate worship works best when we arrive with something to offer God. Church is supposed to be a celebration of our personal journeys with God since we were last together.
What would happen if we came worshipping to church, filled with an awareness of His presence before we even reached the door?
Pastor Randy
Friday, April 27, 2012
A Father's Prayer
Father,
Thank you so much for being You. Thank you for loving me & saving me. Thank you for providing me Your grace and mercy, for demonstrating Your love through Christ. I stand in awe of You today more than ever before. And yet I see that my need for You in all areas of my life are greater today than ever before as well.
Today, You allowed me to see my beautiful daughter go to her senior prom. Just like You did a few years ago with my first daughter. And in the process, You reminded me again how big You are, and how small I am. I am nothing without You. I am certainly not capable of being a man of God, much less a Godly father, without You. Your leading. Your strength. Your love. Your conviction in my life.
I still have so much to learn. Teach me as only You can. Help me to be a man who fears & obeys You, so that my boys will see what a man can do & be when God has complete control of his life. Help me to be an encouragement to my daughters as they turn the pages of new chapters in their lives. Most of all, help me be a husband that loves my wife passionately & builds her up in Christ every day.
Father, all this can only happen if I'm fully surrendered to You. Break me. Mold me. Tear down the walls I've built and relied upon. Renew my strength day by day. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of what you're doing in my family.....and in the world. But help them to know that anything & everything I am is because of You.
Pastor Randy
Thank you so much for being You. Thank you for loving me & saving me. Thank you for providing me Your grace and mercy, for demonstrating Your love through Christ. I stand in awe of You today more than ever before. And yet I see that my need for You in all areas of my life are greater today than ever before as well.
Today, You allowed me to see my beautiful daughter go to her senior prom. Just like You did a few years ago with my first daughter. And in the process, You reminded me again how big You are, and how small I am. I am nothing without You. I am certainly not capable of being a man of God, much less a Godly father, without You. Your leading. Your strength. Your love. Your conviction in my life.
I still have so much to learn. Teach me as only You can. Help me to be a man who fears & obeys You, so that my boys will see what a man can do & be when God has complete control of his life. Help me to be an encouragement to my daughters as they turn the pages of new chapters in their lives. Most of all, help me be a husband that loves my wife passionately & builds her up in Christ every day.
Father, all this can only happen if I'm fully surrendered to You. Break me. Mold me. Tear down the walls I've built and relied upon. Renew my strength day by day. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of what you're doing in my family.....and in the world. But help them to know that anything & everything I am is because of You.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Wakefield Worship - April 1
Here is a preview of some of the songs for Wakefield worship on April 1.
He Reigns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2pw3rJvif8
Forever Reign
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpUJkFmv8kE
How Great is Our God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvXweftb7UU
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Randy
He Reigns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2pw3rJvif8
Forever Reign
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpUJkFmv8kE
How Great is Our God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvXweftb7UU
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Randy
Saturday, March 17, 2012
White Flag
As a worship leader, I listen to a lot of Christian music. I've been waiting for the release of the new Passion CD, White Flag. The title song is a great testimony of how we are to live for Christ:
The battle rages on
As storm and tempest roar
We cannot win this fight
Inside our rebel hearts
We're laying down our weapons now
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to You
All for You
We raise our white flag
The war is over
Love has come
Your love has won
Here on this Holy ground
You made a way for peace
Laying your body down
You took our rightful place
This freedom song is marching on
We lift the cross
Lift it high lift it high
It's the words of the chorus that are important:
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to You
All for You
We raise our white flag
The war is over
Love has come
Your love has won
As I meditate on these words again tonight, I'm reminded that there is no area of my life that God doesn't desire to control. Catch that - God wants control over every area of my life. That's what biblical worship is all about - giving everything to Him. It means I have to raise my white flag and surrender all to Him. We do this as an act of love and devotion to the One who gave everything for us.
Surrender doesn't put boundaries on things. It doesn't say, God, You have all of this part of my life. But I'll hold on to the rest. He gets everything. All of it. For His glory. For Him to be known through me. Surrender lays ourselves open to Him completely and ready to be used as He sees fit.
So don't hold anything back. Give it all to God. Then watch Him do some incredibly awesome things. True worshippers is what He is seeking - those who surrender all to Him.
Pastor Randy
The battle rages on
As storm and tempest roar
We cannot win this fight
Inside our rebel hearts
We're laying down our weapons now
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to You
All for You
We raise our white flag
The war is over
Love has come
Your love has won
Here on this Holy ground
You made a way for peace
Laying your body down
You took our rightful place
This freedom song is marching on
We lift the cross
Lift it high lift it high
It's the words of the chorus that are important:
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to You
All for You
We raise our white flag
The war is over
Love has come
Your love has won
As I meditate on these words again tonight, I'm reminded that there is no area of my life that God doesn't desire to control. Catch that - God wants control over every area of my life. That's what biblical worship is all about - giving everything to Him. It means I have to raise my white flag and surrender all to Him. We do this as an act of love and devotion to the One who gave everything for us.
Surrender doesn't put boundaries on things. It doesn't say, God, You have all of this part of my life. But I'll hold on to the rest. He gets everything. All of it. For His glory. For Him to be known through me. Surrender lays ourselves open to Him completely and ready to be used as He sees fit.
So don't hold anything back. Give it all to God. Then watch Him do some incredibly awesome things. True worshippers is what He is seeking - those who surrender all to Him.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Come Back at a More Convenient Time
I've been reading the New Testament with my students this year. It has been great reading through the NT again, plus I've been able to bring our readings into class as devotions each day. But the passages continue to speak to me personally at the same time. Here are two examples. One that I shared in class this week, and one that I will share when it comes up in the schedule.
Acts 16: Paul & Silas in Prison
You probably know the story well. Paul & Silas are in jail after Paul healed a girl with an evil spirit. Read the chapter for more info. Around midnight, Paul & Silas start praying and singing hymns to God, with the other prisoners listening. Right there you see God using these guys to testify of Him, even in prison. Anyway, there's an earthquake and the prisoners are freed - doors fly open, shackles fall off. The guard of the prison is blown away by this and draws his sword to kill himself.
Paul calls out to the guy to stop, saying all the prisoners are still here. The guard fell down, trembling before Paul & Silas, and asked how to be saved. We all know this story, but notice what happened next in verse 32 - "Then the spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house."
I told my students that this is very significant in the story. Wasn't the earthquake enough? Wasn't the opening of the doors and releasing of the shackles enough? God has demonstrated His power in a mighty way. But Paul & Silas still took the man back to the Scriptures. To me, this is significant. Look back at the OT. When the Israelites were freed from slavery, they saw God do a great miracle by parting the Red Sea. What an awesome demonstration of God's power and provision for them. Was that enough to keep them focused and faithful to Him? Unfortunately, no. Paul & Silas took this guard to God's Word, which never changes, is inspired and perfect, lacking nothing. It also tells of a God who never changes. My encouragement to my students - don't trust the ups and downs of this life, especially your emotions. Don't wait on the big miraculous moments or base your faith on them, apart from the infallable Word of God.
Acts 24: Paul & Felix
Paul is in trouble again with the Sanhedrin. They're trying to figure out exactly what to do with him. Plus, even while this is happening, he keeps giving testimony of his faith. Felix is the Roman governor. Paul has just finished giving his testimony again before Felix. Felix sends Paul away to decide on his fate.
Later, Felix is with his wife and calls for Paul again. He wanted to hear about Paul's faith again. Paul started talking about three things: righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Now, these are some tough subjects to consider. Felix becomes afraid and sends Paul away again. Notice what he says here in verse 25 - "Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you." I like how the NIV reads on this - "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." Wow, that stings! But unfortunately, Felix had the wrong motivation, expecting to get money from Paul. More importantly, Felix kept hearing from Paul for a while, but ultimately Felix left office without responding to the Gospel message.
Those words from verse 25 are tough to read. The original language indicates "convenient time" means "when it suits me". As the NIV study notes say, this is what the Gospel is all about - God's power to change lives. "The Gospel is not effective until it moves from principles and doctrine into a life-changing dynamic."
Along with the application to the Gospel, I believe we can see examples of how Felix's words can roll off our tongue in other ways. It's as if we get to tell God when and how, rather than just saying "yes, Lord". For the believer, righteousness, self-control, and judgment still apply to us. We, too, may become afraid and turn away, or say "not now". "Come back at a more convenient time." Or worse yet, "when I find it convenient, I will send for You."
I praise the Lord for sending this part of His Word to me this week. I needed it. I might not have uttered these words, but my heart needed to be refreshed in obedience. Maybe yours did, too.
Pastor Randy
Acts 16: Paul & Silas in Prison
You probably know the story well. Paul & Silas are in jail after Paul healed a girl with an evil spirit. Read the chapter for more info. Around midnight, Paul & Silas start praying and singing hymns to God, with the other prisoners listening. Right there you see God using these guys to testify of Him, even in prison. Anyway, there's an earthquake and the prisoners are freed - doors fly open, shackles fall off. The guard of the prison is blown away by this and draws his sword to kill himself.
Paul calls out to the guy to stop, saying all the prisoners are still here. The guard fell down, trembling before Paul & Silas, and asked how to be saved. We all know this story, but notice what happened next in verse 32 - "Then the spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house."
I told my students that this is very significant in the story. Wasn't the earthquake enough? Wasn't the opening of the doors and releasing of the shackles enough? God has demonstrated His power in a mighty way. But Paul & Silas still took the man back to the Scriptures. To me, this is significant. Look back at the OT. When the Israelites were freed from slavery, they saw God do a great miracle by parting the Red Sea. What an awesome demonstration of God's power and provision for them. Was that enough to keep them focused and faithful to Him? Unfortunately, no. Paul & Silas took this guard to God's Word, which never changes, is inspired and perfect, lacking nothing. It also tells of a God who never changes. My encouragement to my students - don't trust the ups and downs of this life, especially your emotions. Don't wait on the big miraculous moments or base your faith on them, apart from the infallable Word of God.
Acts 24: Paul & Felix
Paul is in trouble again with the Sanhedrin. They're trying to figure out exactly what to do with him. Plus, even while this is happening, he keeps giving testimony of his faith. Felix is the Roman governor. Paul has just finished giving his testimony again before Felix. Felix sends Paul away to decide on his fate.
Later, Felix is with his wife and calls for Paul again. He wanted to hear about Paul's faith again. Paul started talking about three things: righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Now, these are some tough subjects to consider. Felix becomes afraid and sends Paul away again. Notice what he says here in verse 25 - "Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you." I like how the NIV reads on this - "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." Wow, that stings! But unfortunately, Felix had the wrong motivation, expecting to get money from Paul. More importantly, Felix kept hearing from Paul for a while, but ultimately Felix left office without responding to the Gospel message.
Those words from verse 25 are tough to read. The original language indicates "convenient time" means "when it suits me". As the NIV study notes say, this is what the Gospel is all about - God's power to change lives. "The Gospel is not effective until it moves from principles and doctrine into a life-changing dynamic."
Along with the application to the Gospel, I believe we can see examples of how Felix's words can roll off our tongue in other ways. It's as if we get to tell God when and how, rather than just saying "yes, Lord". For the believer, righteousness, self-control, and judgment still apply to us. We, too, may become afraid and turn away, or say "not now". "Come back at a more convenient time." Or worse yet, "when I find it convenient, I will send for You."
I praise the Lord for sending this part of His Word to me this week. I needed it. I might not have uttered these words, but my heart needed to be refreshed in obedience. Maybe yours did, too.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, January 28, 2012
The Greatness of Our God
It's been a busy week - but then, what's new about that in my life? My tendency sometimes is to sound the retreat first. But I'm always reminded about how big God is. He has a plan that cannot be stopped for all of creation, and that includes me.
I heard this song sung in chapel this week at school. I've heard it before, but I'm not sure I really focused on the text until this week. It reminds me of the greatness of our God. It also reminds me to spend my life to know Him more - and yes, to trust Him more. I hope it encourages you as well.
Give me eyes to see
More of who You are
May what I behold,
Still my anxious heart.
Take what I have known
And break it all apart
For You my God, are greater still.
CHORUS
No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.
Give me grace to see
Beyond this moment here.
To believe that there
Is nothing left to fear.
That You alone are high above it all.
For You my God, are greater still.
No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.
And there is nothing
That can ever separate us.
There is nothing that can ever
Separate us from Your love.
No life, no death, of this I am convinced.
You my God, are greater still.
And no words can say, or song convey,
all You are the greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
to all You are,
the greatness of our God.
Pastor Randy
I heard this song sung in chapel this week at school. I've heard it before, but I'm not sure I really focused on the text until this week. It reminds me of the greatness of our God. It also reminds me to spend my life to know Him more - and yes, to trust Him more. I hope it encourages you as well.
Give me eyes to see
More of who You are
May what I behold,
Still my anxious heart.
Take what I have known
And break it all apart
For You my God, are greater still.
CHORUS
No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.
Give me grace to see
Beyond this moment here.
To believe that there
Is nothing left to fear.
That You alone are high above it all.
For You my God, are greater still.
No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.
And there is nothing
That can ever separate us.
There is nothing that can ever
Separate us from Your love.
No life, no death, of this I am convinced.
You my God, are greater still.
And no words can say, or song convey,
all You are the greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
to all You are,
the greatness of our God.
Pastor Randy
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Jesus Hates Religion. Or Does He?
You've probably seen the video already. It's into the millions of hits on youtube. So, does Jesus hate religion? Here are my "brief" thoughts on the video and the message it's trying to communicate.
First, I applaud and appreciate what I believe is the intent behind the video, and the guy who made it. I agree with many of the messages in it. I also appreciate the fact that it was made in a culturally-relevant manner, which certainly appeals to a younger audience, both students and adults alike. I also very much like the primary message of the video - it's all about a relationship with Jesus Christ. That will always be the hope of the Gospel - that we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and God sent His Son to be our sacrifice. Without that relationship, we will be eternally separated from Him. Praise God for His indescribable gift!
Here are some of my concerns.
1. While I like that the video was made in a culturally-relevant manner, I'm concerned that younger people (in terms of age and belief) are already sold out to it without completely examining the content. The video is well made, almost in a rapping style as a poem. It moves very fast and makes it difficult to catch all the text well. I encourage everyone to Google the text and study it for themselves. Don't just accept something because it sounds right and is made in a way that relates to the culture.
2. So what's so wrong with #1 anyway? Well, I had the chance to preach on this a few weeks ago. The idea is that while our methods can and must change, the message never does. Paul tells the Corinthians that he has become all things to all people, so that some might be saved. But Paul never did anything that contradicted Scripture. I'm all for new methods to communicate the Gospel, including ways that are relevant to today's culture. But we must ensure that the entire counsel of Scripture is maintained in everything we do.
3. And about the entire counsel of Scripture thing - I don't believe Jesus hates religion. He certainly came to change what religion is all about, and He certainly came to proclaim a message that went against the thinking and actions of many religious leaders. Jesus spoke out many times in the Bible against the motives of these leaders. But the issue here is not religion as much as it's about man's sinfulness, pride, self-righteousness, etc. Man is the one who tries to make religion a gateway or path to God, based entirely on what he can do. That's clearly not what the Bible teaches. In this sense, it is about a relationship with our Savior. We must be careful to evaluate the messages (and videos) we fully affirm in light of all Scripture.
4. I'm concerned that someone who watches this video will get a negative perspective, and possibly a false justification, about the church. I know the speaker says he's for the Bible and the church. But many in our culture associate the church with rules and regulations. They can be quick to associate those religious leaders from the Bible with today's church and its leaders. Now, I'm not saying that every church in the US is doing everything consistent with the Bible. But I do not want to give any more ammunition to those looking for justification to avoid church and the ministries of it, especially regular, small group Bible study. Oh yes, and the accountability that comes with it. If it's really all about a relationship, then a believer should crave the chance to grow in the Word and be held accountable. Not to mention the chance to worship with other believers of like mind. And it's what we are commanded to do in Scripture.
5. The true Gospel will always drive us to obedience once that relationship exists. It's not just about getting saved and waiting for heaven. God desires us to walk in a manner worthy of Jesus. That means we must follow the counsel of Scripture here, with its commands and instructions. Some may watch this video and then be left to determine which commands and instructions should be followed, and which may be, say, optional. You can't lump everything together into "rules". I believe in the inerrancy of God's Word. It is without error. It is to be followed and obeyed. Doing so pleases God, which is the main point of that relationship anyway.
Let me reiterate - I like the video overall. I appreciate the intent and message it conveys. I am convicted by several statements made personally. I just want us to evaluate all we see and hear in light of God's Word and under the leadership and teaching of the Holy Spirit. By the way, I've read a number of blogs the last couple of days that speak even more to the video. Here are some links if you're interested:
http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2012/01/13/does-jesus-hate-religion-kinda-sorta-not-really/
http://gospeldrivenchurch.blogspot.com/2012/01/jesus-was-religious.html
http://www.gracefamilybaptist.net/voddie-baucham-ministries/blog/christianity-religion-2012-01/
As for our family, I am thinking we will watch the video together as a family soon. Then we'll spend a great deal of time talking about it. I'm planning to print out the words for everyone to read through, so we can focus on the true message here. I'm sure we'll all grow closer to the Lord through this. I pray you will also.
Pastor Randy
First, I applaud and appreciate what I believe is the intent behind the video, and the guy who made it. I agree with many of the messages in it. I also appreciate the fact that it was made in a culturally-relevant manner, which certainly appeals to a younger audience, both students and adults alike. I also very much like the primary message of the video - it's all about a relationship with Jesus Christ. That will always be the hope of the Gospel - that we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and God sent His Son to be our sacrifice. Without that relationship, we will be eternally separated from Him. Praise God for His indescribable gift!
Here are some of my concerns.
1. While I like that the video was made in a culturally-relevant manner, I'm concerned that younger people (in terms of age and belief) are already sold out to it without completely examining the content. The video is well made, almost in a rapping style as a poem. It moves very fast and makes it difficult to catch all the text well. I encourage everyone to Google the text and study it for themselves. Don't just accept something because it sounds right and is made in a way that relates to the culture.
2. So what's so wrong with #1 anyway? Well, I had the chance to preach on this a few weeks ago. The idea is that while our methods can and must change, the message never does. Paul tells the Corinthians that he has become all things to all people, so that some might be saved. But Paul never did anything that contradicted Scripture. I'm all for new methods to communicate the Gospel, including ways that are relevant to today's culture. But we must ensure that the entire counsel of Scripture is maintained in everything we do.
3. And about the entire counsel of Scripture thing - I don't believe Jesus hates religion. He certainly came to change what religion is all about, and He certainly came to proclaim a message that went against the thinking and actions of many religious leaders. Jesus spoke out many times in the Bible against the motives of these leaders. But the issue here is not religion as much as it's about man's sinfulness, pride, self-righteousness, etc. Man is the one who tries to make religion a gateway or path to God, based entirely on what he can do. That's clearly not what the Bible teaches. In this sense, it is about a relationship with our Savior. We must be careful to evaluate the messages (and videos) we fully affirm in light of all Scripture.
4. I'm concerned that someone who watches this video will get a negative perspective, and possibly a false justification, about the church. I know the speaker says he's for the Bible and the church. But many in our culture associate the church with rules and regulations. They can be quick to associate those religious leaders from the Bible with today's church and its leaders. Now, I'm not saying that every church in the US is doing everything consistent with the Bible. But I do not want to give any more ammunition to those looking for justification to avoid church and the ministries of it, especially regular, small group Bible study. Oh yes, and the accountability that comes with it. If it's really all about a relationship, then a believer should crave the chance to grow in the Word and be held accountable. Not to mention the chance to worship with other believers of like mind. And it's what we are commanded to do in Scripture.
5. The true Gospel will always drive us to obedience once that relationship exists. It's not just about getting saved and waiting for heaven. God desires us to walk in a manner worthy of Jesus. That means we must follow the counsel of Scripture here, with its commands and instructions. Some may watch this video and then be left to determine which commands and instructions should be followed, and which may be, say, optional. You can't lump everything together into "rules". I believe in the inerrancy of God's Word. It is without error. It is to be followed and obeyed. Doing so pleases God, which is the main point of that relationship anyway.
Let me reiterate - I like the video overall. I appreciate the intent and message it conveys. I am convicted by several statements made personally. I just want us to evaluate all we see and hear in light of God's Word and under the leadership and teaching of the Holy Spirit. By the way, I've read a number of blogs the last couple of days that speak even more to the video. Here are some links if you're interested:
http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2012/01/13/does-jesus-hate-religion-kinda-sorta-not-really/
http://gospeldrivenchurch.blogspot.com/2012/01/jesus-was-religious.html
http://www.gracefamilybaptist.net/voddie-baucham-ministries/blog/christianity-religion-2012-01/
As for our family, I am thinking we will watch the video together as a family soon. Then we'll spend a great deal of time talking about it. I'm planning to print out the words for everyone to read through, so we can focus on the true message here. I'm sure we'll all grow closer to the Lord through this. I pray you will also.
Pastor Randy
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