http://www.elevationchurch.org/
Thank God for my church, and the presence of Christ.
This sermon # 3 really spoke to my heart, and that is why I wrote the previous blog.
Just something that yall may want to look at. Maybe you know some people in ur lives who need direction on how to get that Touch from Christ.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I need a touch from Christ, and from You.
So this past weekend the retreat was great, and I was in the presence of God because I was surrounded by lots of believers, and people who love me, and who love Christ.
I have been in this funk lately, and I can't really fully describe it, but its like this:
Although Christ has been using me a lot lately to encourage others, I my self need that encouragement, and that touch of Christ-through the prayer and laying of hands from others.
I yearn to be touched just as much as the next person.
I am going to make more time to meet with my entourage this coming week (the ones who are here in Charlotte) so that they can speak truth in my life, and so that I can get out of this funk.
Often we try so hard like Jacob to wrestle with God on our own. we think that the sins that we struggle with are best done when we are alone with God. Sometimes when i get in this lone ranger mode, I miss out on the sheer Awesomeness of Christ that only comes from being around others and LETTING them speak truth into my life.
I need my friends like the paralytic man in Matthew Ch 9, to drag me to the places where I can fully receive the touch of Christ. Its not all about my faith, and my sturggle with Christ that will elevate me, but sometimes its the love and the faith of others in Christ who have that passion to see me and others re-connect with Christ, that will open up the floodgates of Heaven, and trigger that spiritual healing that I and other desperately need.
I need my intercessors, (my mediators) to stand before God o n my behalf and help me with my struggles so that I out of my own wanderings will get back in step with Christ.
Its just so hard to let others help me sometimes. I am good at helping others, but as a human, i have this innate yearning to not be helped by others. Plus I am a guy. I'm just speaking truth. Sometimes my pride ( and I have no clue why I should even be prideful, especially in these times) keeps me from receiving the Love of Christ from others. There is nothing wrong in letting others help you. In fact that is what Jesus wants for us. To be a body of believers who encourage one another, and build each other up. (1 Thes 5:11a)
So here is my plan of action:
1) To get down on my knees and thank God for all the Grace, and Mercy that He has poured out on me that I in now way deserve. And to thank Him for the healing in advace, because I know that He will Heal Me.
2) to just lay it all at the foot of the cross, and REPENT.
3) to get in contact with my entourage, call a meeting whether one on one or not, and just lay it all out, put my self out that, and LET THEM HELP ME.
4) To Thank God for the healing me, and follow up with my entourage.
I just wanted to be real with all of you because that is excatly what God wants us.
I may write like I know what to do, or how do to it, but in reality, I am just like everyone else, HUMAN, and infinitely small compared to Christ.
I ask that yall would please pray for me in the name of Jesus, that I get this healing soon, and that I will do the same for all of you and others when the time comes.
God Bless,
Amen Amen
I have been in this funk lately, and I can't really fully describe it, but its like this:
Although Christ has been using me a lot lately to encourage others, I my self need that encouragement, and that touch of Christ-through the prayer and laying of hands from others.
I yearn to be touched just as much as the next person.
I am going to make more time to meet with my entourage this coming week (the ones who are here in Charlotte) so that they can speak truth in my life, and so that I can get out of this funk.
Often we try so hard like Jacob to wrestle with God on our own. we think that the sins that we struggle with are best done when we are alone with God. Sometimes when i get in this lone ranger mode, I miss out on the sheer Awesomeness of Christ that only comes from being around others and LETTING them speak truth into my life.
I need my friends like the paralytic man in Matthew Ch 9, to drag me to the places where I can fully receive the touch of Christ. Its not all about my faith, and my sturggle with Christ that will elevate me, but sometimes its the love and the faith of others in Christ who have that passion to see me and others re-connect with Christ, that will open up the floodgates of Heaven, and trigger that spiritual healing that I and other desperately need.
I need my intercessors, (my mediators) to stand before God o n my behalf and help me with my struggles so that I out of my own wanderings will get back in step with Christ.
Its just so hard to let others help me sometimes. I am good at helping others, but as a human, i have this innate yearning to not be helped by others. Plus I am a guy. I'm just speaking truth. Sometimes my pride ( and I have no clue why I should even be prideful, especially in these times) keeps me from receiving the Love of Christ from others. There is nothing wrong in letting others help you. In fact that is what Jesus wants for us. To be a body of believers who encourage one another, and build each other up. (1 Thes 5:11a)
So here is my plan of action:
1) To get down on my knees and thank God for all the Grace, and Mercy that He has poured out on me that I in now way deserve. And to thank Him for the healing in advace, because I know that He will Heal Me.
2) to just lay it all at the foot of the cross, and REPENT.
3) to get in contact with my entourage, call a meeting whether one on one or not, and just lay it all out, put my self out that, and LET THEM HELP ME.
4) To Thank God for the healing me, and follow up with my entourage.
I just wanted to be real with all of you because that is excatly what God wants us.
I may write like I know what to do, or how do to it, but in reality, I am just like everyone else, HUMAN, and infinitely small compared to Christ.
I ask that yall would please pray for me in the name of Jesus, that I get this healing soon, and that I will do the same for all of you and others when the time comes.
God Bless,
Amen Amen
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
2 Soliders for Christ: On the Front Lines for our Country and for our God...
I had the privilege and honor to room with two of our nations hero's (MARINES)
George Wing and Jordan Styrk this past weekend.
I am writing this summary to prove a point, and to hopefully compel you all to search your own hearts deep within for that touch from Christ.
So I was surprised to see two Marines on the Chrysalis retreat. Most of the people who are on it are in college or high school and who are not in the service (well the retreats that I have served on).
Marines are a rare and different breed than most Soldiers. They take the most junk from people for the hard work that they put in for protecting this country.
I was so excited to see Jordan and George, and to meet them. Even more excited to room with them this past weekend.
My first concern was really about how everyone else would warm up to these guys since most of the people on this retreat didnt know anyone. I have lots of friends in the service so I know how Soliders act. Rough, and Tough, and sometimes that is just down right imitating. I didnt know how George and Jordan would fit in this weekend.
I mean lets face it, Marines are trained to go in and get the job done. The ones I know are loud, and quick to anger and passionate about their country. And rightfully so, for their job is hard, and they are fighting in a war that half of the country is oppposed to. Which means by default (out of ignorance) lost respect for them.
God did something this weekend that not only blew my mind, but everyone else's.
God's spirit was all around us this weekend as everybody (even the sophmore's in high school) loved on these guys. And do you know what, THEY ARE HUMAN, WOW SURPRISE SURPRISE AFTER ALL (sarcasm). They loved on us just as much this weekend. We all grew together this weekend as a band of brothers. We are all called to be in the Army of the Lord.
George and Jordan are two of my favorite people! I really love them both dearly as brothers, and I would lay down my life for them. I really mean that. I mean just the bonding that took place this weekend as we got to know each others hearts! Wow, I am getting all emotional just thinking about it. I look up to these guys because they have it tough, and they still took the time to seek Christ. They could have been elsewhere, but they listened to Christ as He drew them to Him.
Their humor, and their passion for life and to serve this messed up country (morals) just spoke to my heart. I have a passion to be in the service as well. I want to be a Chaplain. They really helped me to seek God on this matter, and God spoke to me through them this weekend. They really encouraged me to go for it. Their humor and love just really got to my heart this weekend. They have helped to change my perspective on life and Jesus forever. George, and Jordan, I am forever thankful that you guys were there this past weekend, and that God really brought us together.
But here is what really gets me, and makes me Jealous.
And I want to make you Jealous in order to admire and to respect God's Grace and His perfect will.
As most of the people who know about Chrysalis (been on the flight or not) know, we have this thing called Candle Light. It is a candle light service where people show up to show you the love of Christ. (that is all I can say haha) But anyways we had a special quite time afterwards where we can all bask in the Glory of God, and to talk with each other and encourage each ohter. We can lay all things at the foot of the cross with boldness. We can cry, and laugh, and just connect intimately with Christ.
That night, George and Jordan gave their lives to Christ. Big Deal right, lots of people give their lives to Christ right? Wrong It is a HUGE DEAL, a Deal of Life or Death.
Stay with me... this is long but worth it...
So on the last day, we had a special closing ceremony where we can share what God has done in our lives, and what we will do (next steps)
Jordan and George both got up and talked about what God had done in thier lives, and how He has changed their lives.
George said this, and THIS IS THE IMPORTANT PART:
George said that as the last person was leaving the candlelight service, as the last candle was going out the door, he SAW CHRIST. I'm Serious! that makes me jealous, and it brings tears, and chills to me. HOW AWESOME.
People search their whole lives to See CHRIST. They pray their whole lives to SEE HIM, Literally. Some do and a lot don't. But GEORGE SAW HIM. How Amazing is that. Christ, through His Love and Grace, revealed Himself to George in order that George may KNOW HIM and have a Intimate Relationship with Him. I want that so bad, I really do. I want to SEE HIM so badly.
Gang, Christ has a perfect plan for George and Jordan. They have been called by Christ to carry out His perfect plan.
George and Jordan, You are a Divine Design, and YOU have a Divine Destiny. God has chosen YOU to carry out His Will. You are Soliders in His Army Now. You are leaders for Christ. "God has given you the Air, God had given you wings, so FLY" "Spread out your wings, and shake off the things that hold you down" FLY, Fly with Christ.
God has changed me through them. Christ has shown me His Awesome Love this past weekend, and I will never forget that. Christ has given me a new perspective on life, and how to walk with Him.
George and Jordan give me the Hope that we have in Christ (Romans 5)
I love you Mighty Men of God. I cannot wait to see what Christ is going to do in and through you as you guys go back to Cherry Point, and when you guys go over seas this summer. Army of the Lord (Eph 6)
Remember that Satan wants us to focus on the fact that we Deserve Hell, and that We have Failed, Fallen, and we should Feel Rejected. BUT TO HELL WITH SATAN!!
CHRIST IS THE VICTOR, HE IS THE LORD OF LORDS, THE KING OF KINGS, and HE HAS REDEEMED US WITH HIS BLOOD!!!
Sorry this is so long, but I don't really care haha. I just had to share my heart, and I will continue to share with you this Awesome Weekend!!
WHO IS ROBERT LOGGIA hahah (inside joke)
~FLY WITH CHRIST~
Humbly your brother in Christ,
Nick
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaPMSUYQmo4
George Wing and Jordan Styrk this past weekend.
I am writing this summary to prove a point, and to hopefully compel you all to search your own hearts deep within for that touch from Christ.
So I was surprised to see two Marines on the Chrysalis retreat. Most of the people who are on it are in college or high school and who are not in the service (well the retreats that I have served on).
Marines are a rare and different breed than most Soldiers. They take the most junk from people for the hard work that they put in for protecting this country.
I was so excited to see Jordan and George, and to meet them. Even more excited to room with them this past weekend.
My first concern was really about how everyone else would warm up to these guys since most of the people on this retreat didnt know anyone. I have lots of friends in the service so I know how Soliders act. Rough, and Tough, and sometimes that is just down right imitating. I didnt know how George and Jordan would fit in this weekend.
I mean lets face it, Marines are trained to go in and get the job done. The ones I know are loud, and quick to anger and passionate about their country. And rightfully so, for their job is hard, and they are fighting in a war that half of the country is oppposed to. Which means by default (out of ignorance) lost respect for them.
God did something this weekend that not only blew my mind, but everyone else's.
God's spirit was all around us this weekend as everybody (even the sophmore's in high school) loved on these guys. And do you know what, THEY ARE HUMAN, WOW SURPRISE SURPRISE AFTER ALL (sarcasm). They loved on us just as much this weekend. We all grew together this weekend as a band of brothers. We are all called to be in the Army of the Lord.
George and Jordan are two of my favorite people! I really love them both dearly as brothers, and I would lay down my life for them. I really mean that. I mean just the bonding that took place this weekend as we got to know each others hearts! Wow, I am getting all emotional just thinking about it. I look up to these guys because they have it tough, and they still took the time to seek Christ. They could have been elsewhere, but they listened to Christ as He drew them to Him.
Their humor, and their passion for life and to serve this messed up country (morals) just spoke to my heart. I have a passion to be in the service as well. I want to be a Chaplain. They really helped me to seek God on this matter, and God spoke to me through them this weekend. They really encouraged me to go for it. Their humor and love just really got to my heart this weekend. They have helped to change my perspective on life and Jesus forever. George, and Jordan, I am forever thankful that you guys were there this past weekend, and that God really brought us together.
But here is what really gets me, and makes me Jealous.
And I want to make you Jealous in order to admire and to respect God's Grace and His perfect will.
As most of the people who know about Chrysalis (been on the flight or not) know, we have this thing called Candle Light. It is a candle light service where people show up to show you the love of Christ. (that is all I can say haha) But anyways we had a special quite time afterwards where we can all bask in the Glory of God, and to talk with each other and encourage each ohter. We can lay all things at the foot of the cross with boldness. We can cry, and laugh, and just connect intimately with Christ.
That night, George and Jordan gave their lives to Christ. Big Deal right, lots of people give their lives to Christ right? Wrong It is a HUGE DEAL, a Deal of Life or Death.
Stay with me... this is long but worth it...
So on the last day, we had a special closing ceremony where we can share what God has done in our lives, and what we will do (next steps)
Jordan and George both got up and talked about what God had done in thier lives, and how He has changed their lives.
George said this, and THIS IS THE IMPORTANT PART:
George said that as the last person was leaving the candlelight service, as the last candle was going out the door, he SAW CHRIST. I'm Serious! that makes me jealous, and it brings tears, and chills to me. HOW AWESOME.
People search their whole lives to See CHRIST. They pray their whole lives to SEE HIM, Literally. Some do and a lot don't. But GEORGE SAW HIM. How Amazing is that. Christ, through His Love and Grace, revealed Himself to George in order that George may KNOW HIM and have a Intimate Relationship with Him. I want that so bad, I really do. I want to SEE HIM so badly.
Gang, Christ has a perfect plan for George and Jordan. They have been called by Christ to carry out His perfect plan.
George and Jordan, You are a Divine Design, and YOU have a Divine Destiny. God has chosen YOU to carry out His Will. You are Soliders in His Army Now. You are leaders for Christ. "God has given you the Air, God had given you wings, so FLY" "Spread out your wings, and shake off the things that hold you down" FLY, Fly with Christ.
God has changed me through them. Christ has shown me His Awesome Love this past weekend, and I will never forget that. Christ has given me a new perspective on life, and how to walk with Him.
George and Jordan give me the Hope that we have in Christ (Romans 5)
I love you Mighty Men of God. I cannot wait to see what Christ is going to do in and through you as you guys go back to Cherry Point, and when you guys go over seas this summer. Army of the Lord (Eph 6)
Remember that Satan wants us to focus on the fact that we Deserve Hell, and that We have Failed, Fallen, and we should Feel Rejected. BUT TO HELL WITH SATAN!!
CHRIST IS THE VICTOR, HE IS THE LORD OF LORDS, THE KING OF KINGS, and HE HAS REDEEMED US WITH HIS BLOOD!!!
Sorry this is so long, but I don't really care haha. I just had to share my heart, and I will continue to share with you this Awesome Weekend!!
WHO IS ROBERT LOGGIA hahah (inside joke)
~FLY WITH CHRIST~
Humbly your brother in Christ,
Nick
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaPMSUYQmo4
Faith and things I got from the retreat this past weekend.
I think I need to take another look at my personal faith with Christ.
I have faith, and I love the Lord, but I need to work on my faith just like everybody else. It's not a question of having more faith, its a matter of what can I do with the Faith I already have. Sometimes, people, my self included, believe that we need to ask God for more faith. We seek to have more Faith in Christ, and what God wants us to do with our lives to fully carry out His perfect plan. I have realized more and more that its not about having more stuff, but using what I have to the full potential that God had commanded me to do.
Why do I struggle in my faith? What makes me really feel guilty, or ashamed.
The Three F's.
FALLING-embarrassed, which is especially tough because I am a man, and we are hardwired to fight, and to achieve and overcome. We do want to fall back into our temptations, BUT NOT from Grace. We want to be at the top. But we know that if we give into our temptations we fall, yet again.
FAILING- not measuring up to the potential that God wants. This also applies to the things that I do like school or working out, or my friends. I want to leave my mark on this world. I want people to see after I am gone, that I measured up to something. To me, that is sharing the Gospel, and living a Biblical life for Jesus.
FEELING REJECTED- I feel rejected by God sometimes when I do mess up, when I look at things I should not, or say things that I regret. I feel rejected when I do things that are not Godly. And I feel like I am walled in because of my sins, and my failing. Sometimes I feel downright WORTHLESS. And sometimes the world won't accept for you being a "fallen angel" either. They call you out, and they have no concept of Grace. They only persecute you for messing up. (SIN=Missing the mark) I have to be honest, and just put that out there. As Christians we are not supposed to feel that way, but lets face it, we are humans, and we deserve to go to Hell for all the bad stuff we do. ( as stated in the Bible).
OH YEAH BUT GUESS WHAT!!!
FAITH IS:
A SENSE OF GOD'S PRESENCE
THE CONFIDENCE THAT GOD IS GOOD, AND HE CAN BE TRUSTED.
THE BELIEF THAT GOD HAS UNIQUE PLANS FOR OUR LIVES.
MAT 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Sin is three letters
Grace is 5 letters... God's Grace is bigger than my Sin.
God does not make junk!!
Let go and let God
We are Saved By Grace through Faith!!!!!!!
By focusing on the Cross, and seeking God, Only then will I and anyone else get the direction, and the strength to keep pushing forward. To keep "Aiming our Ideals upward"
As Pastor Furtick said, We are a Divine Design made for a Divine Destiny
I am Joyful now, because God has shown me the way. I know what I must do in order to fully carry out God's Perfect plan!!
This past weekend has really helped me in my Faith!!!
"He's the Beeeessssstttt,HOOH J-E-S-U-S!!"
I have faith, and I love the Lord, but I need to work on my faith just like everybody else. It's not a question of having more faith, its a matter of what can I do with the Faith I already have. Sometimes, people, my self included, believe that we need to ask God for more faith. We seek to have more Faith in Christ, and what God wants us to do with our lives to fully carry out His perfect plan. I have realized more and more that its not about having more stuff, but using what I have to the full potential that God had commanded me to do.
Why do I struggle in my faith? What makes me really feel guilty, or ashamed.
The Three F's.
FALLING-embarrassed, which is especially tough because I am a man, and we are hardwired to fight, and to achieve and overcome. We do want to fall back into our temptations, BUT NOT from Grace. We want to be at the top. But we know that if we give into our temptations we fall, yet again.
FAILING- not measuring up to the potential that God wants. This also applies to the things that I do like school or working out, or my friends. I want to leave my mark on this world. I want people to see after I am gone, that I measured up to something. To me, that is sharing the Gospel, and living a Biblical life for Jesus.
FEELING REJECTED- I feel rejected by God sometimes when I do mess up, when I look at things I should not, or say things that I regret. I feel rejected when I do things that are not Godly. And I feel like I am walled in because of my sins, and my failing. Sometimes I feel downright WORTHLESS. And sometimes the world won't accept for you being a "fallen angel" either. They call you out, and they have no concept of Grace. They only persecute you for messing up. (SIN=Missing the mark) I have to be honest, and just put that out there. As Christians we are not supposed to feel that way, but lets face it, we are humans, and we deserve to go to Hell for all the bad stuff we do. ( as stated in the Bible).
OH YEAH BUT GUESS WHAT!!!
FAITH IS:
A SENSE OF GOD'S PRESENCE
THE CONFIDENCE THAT GOD IS GOOD, AND HE CAN BE TRUSTED.
THE BELIEF THAT GOD HAS UNIQUE PLANS FOR OUR LIVES.
MAT 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Sin is three letters
Grace is 5 letters... God's Grace is bigger than my Sin.
God does not make junk!!
Let go and let God
We are Saved By Grace through Faith!!!!!!!
By focusing on the Cross, and seeking God, Only then will I and anyone else get the direction, and the strength to keep pushing forward. To keep "Aiming our Ideals upward"
As Pastor Furtick said, We are a Divine Design made for a Divine Destiny
I am Joyful now, because God has shown me the way. I know what I must do in order to fully carry out God's Perfect plan!!
This past weekend has really helped me in my Faith!!!
"He's the Beeeessssstttt,HOOH J-E-S-U-S!!"
The Night Before Chrysalis
Just checked in earlier today with the Chrysalis, and I go to jam with the gang, Luke, Matty P, Randy, and Mike etc. We didn't know at first if we were going to have the Chrysalis retreat because of the Snow Storm. But we are going to go ahead and do it, Lord willing. And hopefully people can get here safe and sound. If we do not have it, then we will just be stuck here and jam!! haha!!
Just hearing the guys jam tonight was really good, reflective on life, and Jesus Savior Pilot Me is one of my all time favorites, and it was good because Matt and them said "we dedicate this song to Nick Cook." I need Jesus more and more to Pilot me. Especially in the hard times.
Thursday Night i spent the night alone in the cabin, because all of the guys had not come. Most of the leadership team was spread out and we just wanted to get our stuff settled in because the next day (Friday) would be a very long day starting very early.
I got spiritually attacked that night. A deep darkness came over me when I was sleeping. I was paralyzed and I could not open my eyes or hardly move. It was intense. Unlike most of the other attacks in the night, this one was longer, and it was so hard to fight it off. I had to call upon the name of Jesus several times, and rebuke the devil over and over. I knew that something big was going to happen over this retreat weekend, but I did not know what was going to happen. I finally was able to fight off the darkness, and I awoke screaming scripture.
Sometimes when God has big plans for me, Satan and his demons attack me. Maybe this has happened to you.
Satan had a glimpse of the outcome of this weekend, and he was trying to scare me into running away from this weekend's experience.
But only by the Grace of God, it did not happen.
I finally was able to get to sleep, and get up for the next day, ready to serve the Lord.
Just hearing the guys jam tonight was really good, reflective on life, and Jesus Savior Pilot Me is one of my all time favorites, and it was good because Matt and them said "we dedicate this song to Nick Cook." I need Jesus more and more to Pilot me. Especially in the hard times.
Thursday Night i spent the night alone in the cabin, because all of the guys had not come. Most of the leadership team was spread out and we just wanted to get our stuff settled in because the next day (Friday) would be a very long day starting very early.
I got spiritually attacked that night. A deep darkness came over me when I was sleeping. I was paralyzed and I could not open my eyes or hardly move. It was intense. Unlike most of the other attacks in the night, this one was longer, and it was so hard to fight it off. I had to call upon the name of Jesus several times, and rebuke the devil over and over. I knew that something big was going to happen over this retreat weekend, but I did not know what was going to happen. I finally was able to fight off the darkness, and I awoke screaming scripture.
Sometimes when God has big plans for me, Satan and his demons attack me. Maybe this has happened to you.
Satan had a glimpse of the outcome of this weekend, and he was trying to scare me into running away from this weekend's experience.
But only by the Grace of God, it did not happen.
I finally was able to get to sleep, and get up for the next day, ready to serve the Lord.
Jesus Savior Pilot Me
Jesus, Savior, pilot me
over life's tempestuous sea;
unknown waves before me roll,
hiding rock and treacherous shoal.
Chart and compass come from thee;
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.
2. As a mother stills her child,
thou canst hush the ocean wild;
boisterous waves obey thy will,
when thou sayest to them, "Be still!"
Wondrous sovreign of the sea,
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.
3. When at last I near the shore,
and the fearful breakers roar
'twixt me and the peaceful rest,
then, while leaning on thy breast,
may I hear thee say to me,
"Fear not, I will pilot thee."
One of my all time fav's.
I will def blog about this past weekend experience, wow!
over life's tempestuous sea;
unknown waves before me roll,
hiding rock and treacherous shoal.
Chart and compass come from thee;
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.
2. As a mother stills her child,
thou canst hush the ocean wild;
boisterous waves obey thy will,
when thou sayest to them, "Be still!"
Wondrous sovreign of the sea,
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.
3. When at last I near the shore,
and the fearful breakers roar
'twixt me and the peaceful rest,
then, while leaning on thy breast,
may I hear thee say to me,
"Fear not, I will pilot thee."
One of my all time fav's.
I will def blog about this past weekend experience, wow!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
is wanting affection, or a relationship really bad?
So I have been talking with some of my friends about the feeling of lonlieness that comes during our walks with Christ. You know, the feeling of being lone in our singleness.
Yes we have Christ, but for those who have been called to marriage, we find ourselves faced with loneliness. We want affection, and encouragement from the opposite sex, and we want to feel good, and be built up.
Scripture even says:
1 Thes 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
But we also at the same time do not want to lead anyone one, or be lead on.
It is hard sometimes to draw the line when reaching out for affection (emotional).
Sometimes it turns into emotional/physical lust. And that is why so many people give up on the possibility of being in a relationship because of that very fact. They have been in situations where the very thing the sought turned into lust. And so they are scared and ashamed of giving affection, or receiving it.
And people tell us that seeking affection(emotional) is wrong, and God does not want that at all.
I say thats a direct attack from Satan, and to Hell with Satan.
God wants all of us to be encouraged, and built up. But its how and where we seek the affection that really determines if it is good or bad.
But most people, especially when they are down, take whatever they can get.
I say to you, Don't settle for anything less than what God wants.
Well what does God want?
I say this, to be encouraged in your walk with Christ. To be built up to guard your heart against the world, and Satan. To have someone compliment you on your personality, and yes even make good remarks about your physical appearance.
It gets messy when people really go into detail about your physical features, or when they really go into detail about the emotional needs that are met by you.
So how do we deal with this sticky issue?
well first we have to pray. I know I know, we all get tired of hearing this, it seems like Prayer is the miracle cure for everything now days. But listen, prayer is direct intimate communication with God. If you are really serious about being affectionate in ur friendships without it turning into lust, then you must i mean must pray about the friendship. You have to pray for guidance and wisdom from God. There is no other way gang. I know because I have screwed it up so many times in my life.
Then you must communicate with the person you are being affectionate with. If it gets to that point where you do not know if the encouragement is more than friendship, do not be afraid to ask.
Do not wait for the other person to come out and tell you. They either know or they do not know. But why wait for all that? Why go through all that red tape. Be bold, speak up.
If you feel that the person made a remark that has more than one meaning, then ask them what do they mean by that remark. Chances are if they really care about you, then they will give you an honest answer. If they don't then I think you need to rethink the terms of friendship(closeness).
It is normal at times to feel lonely, we are human. But it is whether seek affection in the wrong places, or dwell on the issue that make us loose the direction from Christ.
read the Bible, get involved actively with a solid bible study and Church. Pray for spiritual friendships what will help you in you walk with Christ.
And don't worry, you are not alone on this issue. There are millions of people who feel the same way you do. There are millions of people who pray about the same things you do.
In closing, tell ol Satan to go back to Hell, and that In Jesus Name, You are victorious. You are better than what Satan tells you, and that Christ is the victor.
I hope this helps
God Bless, and Happy New Year!!
HERE IS SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURE FROM MY BUDDY DANNY VISH!!!
I John 4:11 God’s love for us gives us the capacity to love others. "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to love one another."`
I John 4:18 God’s love for us removes all fear. We can resolve our fears by focusing on His immeasurable love for us.
I John 4: 19 God’s love is the source of all human love. It is not natural for man to love God. We love Him because He first loved us."
Yes we have Christ, but for those who have been called to marriage, we find ourselves faced with loneliness. We want affection, and encouragement from the opposite sex, and we want to feel good, and be built up.
Scripture even says:
1 Thes 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
But we also at the same time do not want to lead anyone one, or be lead on.
It is hard sometimes to draw the line when reaching out for affection (emotional).
Sometimes it turns into emotional/physical lust. And that is why so many people give up on the possibility of being in a relationship because of that very fact. They have been in situations where the very thing the sought turned into lust. And so they are scared and ashamed of giving affection, or receiving it.
And people tell us that seeking affection(emotional) is wrong, and God does not want that at all.
I say thats a direct attack from Satan, and to Hell with Satan.
God wants all of us to be encouraged, and built up. But its how and where we seek the affection that really determines if it is good or bad.
But most people, especially when they are down, take whatever they can get.
I say to you, Don't settle for anything less than what God wants.
Well what does God want?
I say this, to be encouraged in your walk with Christ. To be built up to guard your heart against the world, and Satan. To have someone compliment you on your personality, and yes even make good remarks about your physical appearance.
It gets messy when people really go into detail about your physical features, or when they really go into detail about the emotional needs that are met by you.
So how do we deal with this sticky issue?
well first we have to pray. I know I know, we all get tired of hearing this, it seems like Prayer is the miracle cure for everything now days. But listen, prayer is direct intimate communication with God. If you are really serious about being affectionate in ur friendships without it turning into lust, then you must i mean must pray about the friendship. You have to pray for guidance and wisdom from God. There is no other way gang. I know because I have screwed it up so many times in my life.
Then you must communicate with the person you are being affectionate with. If it gets to that point where you do not know if the encouragement is more than friendship, do not be afraid to ask.
Do not wait for the other person to come out and tell you. They either know or they do not know. But why wait for all that? Why go through all that red tape. Be bold, speak up.
If you feel that the person made a remark that has more than one meaning, then ask them what do they mean by that remark. Chances are if they really care about you, then they will give you an honest answer. If they don't then I think you need to rethink the terms of friendship(closeness).
It is normal at times to feel lonely, we are human. But it is whether seek affection in the wrong places, or dwell on the issue that make us loose the direction from Christ.
read the Bible, get involved actively with a solid bible study and Church. Pray for spiritual friendships what will help you in you walk with Christ.
And don't worry, you are not alone on this issue. There are millions of people who feel the same way you do. There are millions of people who pray about the same things you do.
In closing, tell ol Satan to go back to Hell, and that In Jesus Name, You are victorious. You are better than what Satan tells you, and that Christ is the victor.
I hope this helps
God Bless, and Happy New Year!!
HERE IS SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURE FROM MY BUDDY DANNY VISH!!!
I John 4:11 God’s love for us gives us the capacity to love others. "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to love one another."`
I John 4:18 God’s love for us removes all fear. We can resolve our fears by focusing on His immeasurable love for us.
I John 4: 19 God’s love is the source of all human love. It is not natural for man to love God. We love Him because He first loved us."
bah-humbug
So I figure that I am a scrooge during the Christmas Season.
I despise the fact that people are so wrapped up in presents and shopping haha. Pun intended :)
Christmas is more about the Presence of Christ. The Coming of Christ is what Christmas is all about. How He Came to save us, and to deliver us from our sin and death.
I get annoyed because people get in this mindset about buying all these nice presents for people and focused on giving stuff. Now I am not against gift giving, no I love to give gifts. But what about giving people the chance to have a personal intimate relationship with Christ.
What about spending time with them and sharing the Gospel and how Christ has saved us?
Now I know there are lots of people who do this, but there needs to be more people doing this. I myself need to spend more time doing this as well. I share my faith, but do I really share it with as many people as God wants me to? No, and I need to repent and spend more time year long doing so.
But Christmas marked the change of history. With Christ's birth, the world changed forever.
Christmas Cheer is about the joy of knowing that God sent his One and Only son to earth to save us from our Sin. It's about forgiving those who have done us wrong. It's about reaching out to those in need, and who need to receive a personal intimate relationship with Christ.
Giving gifts out of love is great, but what about focusing on the Greatest Gift of all... JESUS?
I have become better over the years. I am not the scrooge I use to be, and I am more cheerful around Christmas time because of Jesus. I am focusing more on that instead of all the hustle and bustle.
Are you?
I despise the fact that people are so wrapped up in presents and shopping haha. Pun intended :)
Christmas is more about the Presence of Christ. The Coming of Christ is what Christmas is all about. How He Came to save us, and to deliver us from our sin and death.
I get annoyed because people get in this mindset about buying all these nice presents for people and focused on giving stuff. Now I am not against gift giving, no I love to give gifts. But what about giving people the chance to have a personal intimate relationship with Christ.
What about spending time with them and sharing the Gospel and how Christ has saved us?
Now I know there are lots of people who do this, but there needs to be more people doing this. I myself need to spend more time doing this as well. I share my faith, but do I really share it with as many people as God wants me to? No, and I need to repent and spend more time year long doing so.
But Christmas marked the change of history. With Christ's birth, the world changed forever.
Christmas Cheer is about the joy of knowing that God sent his One and Only son to earth to save us from our Sin. It's about forgiving those who have done us wrong. It's about reaching out to those in need, and who need to receive a personal intimate relationship with Christ.
Giving gifts out of love is great, but what about focusing on the Greatest Gift of all... JESUS?
I have become better over the years. I am not the scrooge I use to be, and I am more cheerful around Christmas time because of Jesus. I am focusing more on that instead of all the hustle and bustle.
Are you?
It's not all about a fairy tale...
since I have been on vacation and without internet, here are some catch up blogs that have been on my heart.
So its Christmas Season, and there is a lot of talk and advertising for gifts that you can give to your "soul mate," "Special one," "The Love of your life."
Which got me to asking around about "The One" and how I would "Know" if that person is the one.
Will God give me that special sign, well for me series cuz im a lil clueless lol?
Then what about from there? Does it all make sense, i mean would everything go as smoothly as "everyone" says it will?
Now I know what parents say, it takes lots of work for a marriage blah blah lol I KNOW!!!
But I'm talking about dating, and courtship up to marriage.
Well I am getting to know this very very special person better, and God really gave me this revelation. Not only did God give it to me to help me out, but also to help out all my friends who think that it's all a fairy tale with no problems.
This person is simply amazing, and I will write about her later on. :)
But I still do not know who my wife is yet, and if this person is the one then God will tell me when He is ready. And if she is not, then God will tell me that when He is ready as well haha. It's a Win-Win either way with God.
Okay here is what God told me.
Just because you "know" if that person is your soul mate does not mean that things will be eaiser, or that life will magically bend itself around you. It is a miracle only by the sheer Grace and Mercy and Love of God that you do know who that person is. That is the first and foremost important thing.
I am already so thankful that God has that perfect person out there for me who is the most amazing and beautiful person that I will ever know.
I am only saying that life is hard, and once you know, you have to work at keeping it the way God wants it. You have to keep praying, and keep communicating with that person, and with God.
You have to keep striving for purity, and for a Christ centered relationship.
Which in turn will piss off Satan, which means that we have to read the word more and more, and seek wisdom and guidance from God.
Thats awesome that God will tell us, and that He has great plans for us. Jer. 29:11
I hope this story helps:
I was one of those kids you see on tv, or read about in the mail who needed a family. You know the Adopt this Kid kinda thing. My parents saw my picture and fell instantly in love with me. That of course was Christ's work.
Now my parents had a lot of work to do after they "knew" I was the kid they wanted to adopt.
There was all this paper work that had to be done, both with the state, the US, Customs, and the Colombian Government. They had to get thorough background checks and go through all these interviews. They had to be screened to make sure that they were the best parents out there for me. They had to meet with linguists who could make sure the documents were in order and clearly stated in both English and Spanish. Then when they were finally able to go and adopt me, they had to spend two weeks in Colombia in a war town country spending time with me there, and then take me back to the US.
Throughout the whole time, there was a lot of heart ache. The papers had to be re-done, and they had to go through all this red tape. They didn't even know if they were going to be able to adopt me because of all the red tape. They prayed, and prayed, and cried, and asked guidance from God and from other people. Even though they "Knew" I was going to be their son, they had to keep pushing through all of Satan's attacks.
In the end, with their determination, faith in God, I was there son!!!! 20 years later, I am still theirs and I will be for ever!!!!! All that hard work, and pain mixed with joyous times paid off. I am the luckiest kid in the world to have parents who went through all that just to adopt a kid.
I think it's like what with "The One." There will be times of struggle, and pain alongside the times of joy.
That is why it is important to remember that it's not a fairy tale when God reveals "The One," It's nothing short of a miracle, but it does not end there.
So in closing, when you do find that one, keep focusing on Christ, and rebuking the Devil. In the end, it will pay off. Life is hard, but God will show you the way, but only by being obedient.
I am so thankful that God gave me this revelation because when I do know who The One is, I will have a better idea of letting God lead me.
So its Christmas Season, and there is a lot of talk and advertising for gifts that you can give to your "soul mate," "Special one," "The Love of your life."
Which got me to asking around about "The One" and how I would "Know" if that person is the one.
Will God give me that special sign, well for me series cuz im a lil clueless lol?
Then what about from there? Does it all make sense, i mean would everything go as smoothly as "everyone" says it will?
Now I know what parents say, it takes lots of work for a marriage blah blah lol I KNOW!!!
But I'm talking about dating, and courtship up to marriage.
Well I am getting to know this very very special person better, and God really gave me this revelation. Not only did God give it to me to help me out, but also to help out all my friends who think that it's all a fairy tale with no problems.
This person is simply amazing, and I will write about her later on. :)
But I still do not know who my wife is yet, and if this person is the one then God will tell me when He is ready. And if she is not, then God will tell me that when He is ready as well haha. It's a Win-Win either way with God.
Okay here is what God told me.
Just because you "know" if that person is your soul mate does not mean that things will be eaiser, or that life will magically bend itself around you. It is a miracle only by the sheer Grace and Mercy and Love of God that you do know who that person is. That is the first and foremost important thing.
I am already so thankful that God has that perfect person out there for me who is the most amazing and beautiful person that I will ever know.
I am only saying that life is hard, and once you know, you have to work at keeping it the way God wants it. You have to keep praying, and keep communicating with that person, and with God.
You have to keep striving for purity, and for a Christ centered relationship.
Which in turn will piss off Satan, which means that we have to read the word more and more, and seek wisdom and guidance from God.
Thats awesome that God will tell us, and that He has great plans for us. Jer. 29:11
I hope this story helps:
I was one of those kids you see on tv, or read about in the mail who needed a family. You know the Adopt this Kid kinda thing. My parents saw my picture and fell instantly in love with me. That of course was Christ's work.
Now my parents had a lot of work to do after they "knew" I was the kid they wanted to adopt.
There was all this paper work that had to be done, both with the state, the US, Customs, and the Colombian Government. They had to get thorough background checks and go through all these interviews. They had to be screened to make sure that they were the best parents out there for me. They had to meet with linguists who could make sure the documents were in order and clearly stated in both English and Spanish. Then when they were finally able to go and adopt me, they had to spend two weeks in Colombia in a war town country spending time with me there, and then take me back to the US.
Throughout the whole time, there was a lot of heart ache. The papers had to be re-done, and they had to go through all this red tape. They didn't even know if they were going to be able to adopt me because of all the red tape. They prayed, and prayed, and cried, and asked guidance from God and from other people. Even though they "Knew" I was going to be their son, they had to keep pushing through all of Satan's attacks.
In the end, with their determination, faith in God, I was there son!!!! 20 years later, I am still theirs and I will be for ever!!!!! All that hard work, and pain mixed with joyous times paid off. I am the luckiest kid in the world to have parents who went through all that just to adopt a kid.
I think it's like what with "The One." There will be times of struggle, and pain alongside the times of joy.
That is why it is important to remember that it's not a fairy tale when God reveals "The One," It's nothing short of a miracle, but it does not end there.
So in closing, when you do find that one, keep focusing on Christ, and rebuking the Devil. In the end, it will pay off. Life is hard, but God will show you the way, but only by being obedient.
I am so thankful that God gave me this revelation because when I do know who The One is, I will have a better idea of letting God lead me.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)