So, in this time of what seems like great uncertainty, though nothing is truly certain other than God and His promises, I am finding a great strength and peace that I believe can only come from God.
You see there are two things that I desire more than anything, and despite my waiting, and some seeking they seem to be the most impossible things to attain. One is a position in full time youth ministry, and the other is a Godly man to share this crazy adventure called life with. For the churches it seems I don't have enough experience. I could just sit and feel sorry for myself maybe even find a few others to pity me, but that would simply be giving in to what the rest of the world seems to think. However, I'm choosing to rely on Christ. I'm holding on to the hope that he has a plan and a future for my life. That even when the world seems like it's falling out from under me, I'll be found in Him, still standing.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Luggage
Wow, so tonight I heard a message that spoke right to my current situation. It was as if God truly had me at that place right at that time for a reason. The message was on luggage those things we carry with us whether they are hurtful words, wounds from past relationships, being surrounded even currently with negative people, unforgiveness, or just any of the other junk of life that can throw our way. The speaker talked about how those things can keep us from truly experiencing all that God has for us and the life he desires for us to live.
I know in my life I've have had a battle with some negative words at time from someone very close to me. This has many times left me feeling defeated. Then I've had many not so great relationships both friendships and in dating. Then there are the countless times I've gone on interviews and sent out resumes to churches as I've sought out pursuing my call to ministry to have it lead no where. I'll be the first to admit that lately the weight of all these has seemed to be piling up. However, the words spoken tonight helped breathe God's truth into my life right when it was what I needed.
The truth is we all have our own junk or luggage either of things in the past or things that are currently going on. However, the greater truth is that there is a God who sees all that is going on in our lives and genuinely cares. He has a plan for us that is to prosper and not to harm us. So often it's hard to truly believe that when things are happening that we simply can't understand.
The past actions or things done by others, or things that have happened don't have to define our future. God has a plan, and has given each of us dreams that often this world tries to drown out. Too often we try to keep control over those things and try to somehow maneuver things and use our own ability to make things happen. We must turn those hopes and dreams over to him along with our baggage. This takes complete surrender, and trusting in God to be our shield, our defender, and our provider.
I know in my life I've have had a battle with some negative words at time from someone very close to me. This has many times left me feeling defeated. Then I've had many not so great relationships both friendships and in dating. Then there are the countless times I've gone on interviews and sent out resumes to churches as I've sought out pursuing my call to ministry to have it lead no where. I'll be the first to admit that lately the weight of all these has seemed to be piling up. However, the words spoken tonight helped breathe God's truth into my life right when it was what I needed.
The truth is we all have our own junk or luggage either of things in the past or things that are currently going on. However, the greater truth is that there is a God who sees all that is going on in our lives and genuinely cares. He has a plan for us that is to prosper and not to harm us. So often it's hard to truly believe that when things are happening that we simply can't understand.
The past actions or things done by others, or things that have happened don't have to define our future. God has a plan, and has given each of us dreams that often this world tries to drown out. Too often we try to keep control over those things and try to somehow maneuver things and use our own ability to make things happen. We must turn those hopes and dreams over to him along with our baggage. This takes complete surrender, and trusting in God to be our shield, our defender, and our provider.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Patriot Day
So, on KSBJ they were talking about the anniversary of 9/11 coming up that has now been called Patriot Day. They were asking people to remember those that have given up their lives for our country. However, lately I've been thinking about how as disciples of Christ we are part of a greater nation, the kingdom of God. It is serving God, and following Christ that should demand our greatest allegiance. Just like this country, the kingdom of God has been built up by people who have given their lives for what they believe in. When you look at the early church they faced such persecution and hardships that for many ended in death.
So, this coming 9/11 I chose to turn my attention to remembering not only the One who gave His life so I can live, but to all those that have followed Christ before me and suffered for the cause of Christ so that I too might come to know Christ and believe. Not only should it serve as a reminder, but I pray for a renewed sense of calling to show Christ's love in this world no matter the cost.
Right now all over the world there are citizens of Christ's kingdom in countries where they are being persecuted, sought out, and killed. However, in the face of such challenges, they are continuing to grow and press forward. We all ought to catch hold of that spirit!!!
To follow Christ is to live a life that is counter that of the world. It is a call to stop calling your own plays, to love generously, to forgive, and to serve one another with compassion. It isn't easy, and it commands that all of us become patriots.
So, on Patriot Day, and even right now, I invite you to ask yourself where your allegiance is directed and believe me I will be doing the same.
So, this coming 9/11 I chose to turn my attention to remembering not only the One who gave His life so I can live, but to all those that have followed Christ before me and suffered for the cause of Christ so that I too might come to know Christ and believe. Not only should it serve as a reminder, but I pray for a renewed sense of calling to show Christ's love in this world no matter the cost.
Right now all over the world there are citizens of Christ's kingdom in countries where they are being persecuted, sought out, and killed. However, in the face of such challenges, they are continuing to grow and press forward. We all ought to catch hold of that spirit!!!
To follow Christ is to live a life that is counter that of the world. It is a call to stop calling your own plays, to love generously, to forgive, and to serve one another with compassion. It isn't easy, and it commands that all of us become patriots.
So, on Patriot Day, and even right now, I invite you to ask yourself where your allegiance is directed and believe me I will be doing the same.
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