Ramblings Of A Crazy Christian

Baptism Sunday

2009-08-11T05:45:00.000-07:00

Mike and Todd are gone, and I have some time to reflect on this past weekend here at Life Quest Church.

This past weekend LifeQuestChurch baptized 37people, in fact, some were families who had never been to our church. It was their first time. I saw healing among families and those around who were present at the Baptism service. 6 people accepted Jesus. I had the honor to baptize children. man, was that humbling. Still is, in fact, the more I think of it, the more I laugh in joy because of what God did.
I am just so filled with all of these different emotions this morning. To think that God has a special plan for our Church, and for those who are a part of this revolution for Christ here in KC. To think that Christ would allow me, yes me, to have a part in His work. I am just so in awe. I am a wreck this morning...lots of emotions, so overwhelming...mostly Joy. I am so grateful to be a part of something that will last forever... the work of reaching out to lost people, loving on them, and sharing the Gospel with them. Not that I am perfect haha, I am progressing. That's the overwhelming part. Not only am I redeemed, but I am somebody in Christ. Hey guess what...if you have accepted Christ, then so are you. You are somebody, you are a peculiar people, you are a leader. You do have what it takes. Grab on to what Christ has in store for you. Dive into the Word and prayer like never before. Let Christ and others call out your potential, the potential that He planned for you before you were even born.

What my soul longs for is to see a generation rise up and advance His Gospel like never before. The look on those Children has changed my life forever. I just yearn to see God do more miracles through the Church here in KC. We as a Church have got to give our kids our best, and not our leftovers.

p.s. I am listening to Phil Wickham's Sing Along. its free, down load it.

Ways in which parents can get involved in Children's Ministry

2009-07-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

here are some ways in which parents can get involved in the ministry of their children.
1) become a Sheppard/helper in their Children's program. (not saying you have to teach the thing if you can't teach or if you get nervous, just be a body there to help who ever is teaching teach) pretty easy...

2) Teach!! yay, become a teacher and help teach the program. If that is your cup of tea, then dive right in. Not for everyone, but anyone can at least give it a shot

3) Help to lead worship... I can't sing, ask @Jr_brown lol our worship pastor. But if you can sing, then help out and sing songs with the kids, its a lot of fun!!

4) Nursery/preschool area. If you like changing diapers, or rocking the babies, playing with them, give it a shot. It is a lot of fun, and you will be a better person for it!!

5) Children's Check in/Greeter. Man, nothing makes parents feel safer than people who take ownership of their children's program. People who are warm and fuzzy, the ooey gooey type who love Children and who want to see Children raised up in the ways of the Lord.

6) Children's security! (MEN)!! If you are a fan of kids, but not a real fan, you can stand and help keep these kids safe. You big strong men can help to ensure the safety of these kids. Are ya a coward? Besides, a lot of churches have people who can teach basic martial arts skills that come in handy during those weekend games of pick up haha. shhhh.

7) Tech people!! yeah, u geeks and freaks out there who love to do stuff on the computer with graphics, lights, and sounds! We need you, and you are very important!!

8) Set Up/Tear Down. Oh Yes, (MEN) again... since you brag to the boys about how strong you are, why not help to move props, boxes,totes around. Great place to meet women you single college and hs boys haha. ;) Yeah, i just went there :)

There are so many more ways, but these are a great start. Ask your local Children's Pastor, or Ministry Director for more details.

Remember, who is the best expert on your Children.... YOU ARE :) Get involved, its rewarding!!

Confessions of a Children's Ministry Director...

2009-07-15T22:06:00.000-07:00

These kids are the next generation of leaders. These kids will one day rule the world. I am so blessed and honored to be silly, to dress up, to sing songs, and do motions, to play games that to an adult are silly, but to these kids, its is the difference between Heaven and Hell. Why can't we as the church, esp in America understand that fact?

Why are so we so focused on your own lives that we forget to build up next generation?

Two things I have noticed, one that breaks my heart, but the other fans a burning flame within my soul.

The first, is that the parents in the church in America have for too long dropped off their kids at church thinking that the Church can fix whatever is wrong with them. The Church, the body, has to have parents who are involved in the lives of their children not only in church but outside so that they can be raised up in the ways of God. The Church is not here to babysit your kids or to slap them on the wrist when they do something wrong. The Church exists to educate and empower your kids to have a growing relationship with Christ that results in the multiplication of His Kingdom.
It just breaks my heart that parents do not get involved in the ministry of their local church to help raise up the next generation.

What fans a burning flame in my heart is this: I serve an awesome God, a God who answers by fire, who gives us light in the darkness. A God who works through the little Children to impact a nation to seek Him. These children are having a blast learning about Jesus and who He is. These children will go back and tell their friends about not only the fun they had at church, but about Jesus and His love for them. I serve a Great God who has placed me at a church who is not ashamed of the Gospel, or stepping out of the bounds of traditional church in order to reach nontraditional children. I serve a Church who serves Christ with a level of excellence and creates an environment where anyone can come and learn about who Jesus is and what He has done.

Boomerang Express and Sports Camp Week!

2009-07-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that I am just in awe of the Goodness of Christ. How about the fact that this week at Sports Camp and VBS God has just messed me up as a man running passionately after God's heart. These kids, this is where it's at. Building up a generation of young people sold out for Christ just consumes me, overwhelms me.
I am just brought to tears as I write this post reflecting on the fact that so many kids came out these past couple of days. 16 kids for the bball camp, and 38 kids came to the night VBS.

Not only is there a team of committed believers there all the way from TEXAS, but the curriculum is excellent. BOOMERANG EXPRESS.

I have had a chance to meet these kids, and build a closer relationship with them. These kids are bright, and they are full of life and Child Like Faith. Yes, I think these songs are silly, and they are stuck in your head the whole week, but you know what, they are awesome! They work, and they communicate the Gospel in a pretty awesome way that is so simple. I like that. Sometimes we as Christians get so caught up in the deep doctrine of religiosity that we often stray from the Child Like faith in which Jesus talks about in the Gospel. This camp makes me feel more alive. The simple way that the Gospel is shown is so pure, so easy to understand. We serve a great God who loves us and who wants us to follow Him with child like faith.

I am just reminded of the Goodness of God, and the fact that He can use little Children to ruin me for His Glory. Our God is a God of Love. He loves these Children, they are His. We are His Children, and being able to serve these kids and serve God just blows me away.

These Children declare the beauty of the Lord.

I am just so blessed to be able to spend time with these Children and be reminded what Child Like Faith is! I love you Jesus!!

A child gave her life to Christ tonight. I don't know about you, but all of the video stuff, the music, the props, the games, the skits, the stories...the money... was worth it. She came to know CHRIST!! I mean that is freakin awesome!!

LIFEQUEST CHURCH, KC MO!!

2009-06-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

Well Folks, the move was soo smooth and now I am all settled in my new house( I'm staying an awesome family, the Rouse's)!!! Praise Jesus for my awesome family back home who is supporting this move of God in my life.

I just wanted to say that I am so blown away by the sheer awesomeness of Christ and how He has placed me at Life Quest to not only build momentum here in KC but also to grow me in my own walk with HIM.

The staff, the volunteers and the body here at Life Quest have been so warm and welcoming. I am just so blown away by the passion to serve Christ that exists here at Life Quest Church. In fact, I feel as if I have known these people for like 2 years. Talk about the provision of God. The Church has been so supporting.

How about that Pastor, Pastor Chris Pinion. Talk about a mighty man of God. His passion to serve Christ with excellence and to reach lost people is so infectious. He has spoken so much truth into my life already. He is a man after God's own heart. Pastor Chris has Twitter!!!
ChrisPinion

We are currently setting up systems that will allow us to relieve some of the burden of Pastor Chris so that he can spend more time in the word and listening to God as He allows Pastor Chris to be His mouthpiece. I am so excited, so honored to come along side my Pastor and to lift us his arms like Arron did for Moses.

How are you as a volunteer, as a staff member, as a member of your church coming alongside your pastor and lifting up his arms while He leads the people?

One thing I have learned these past 3 years is this:

Just because you know the pastor does not entitle you to have personal time with the pastor when ever you feel like it. In fact, I believe that if you are sold out on the vision of what God is doing in your church, then you should feel honored to fall on your face and intercede on behalf of your pastor. It's not that your pastor does not care, or that he does not love you... its the simple fact that he can't be everything to everyone and still have time to listen to God and preach a sermon that will create life change.

How about instead you write him a letter of encouragement telling him that you have his back. How about a letter boasting in what God has done in your life being under the leadership of your pastor.

I am so blessed to be a part of this awesome move of God here at LifeQuestChurch and I am so honored to be an armor bearer for my pastor. I am willing to lay down my life, to take a bullet for him. Are you that sold out? I know I am.

I BLOGGED!!!!!

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

Hey so I have not blogged in like 3 months.... I am just too busy to blog lately.
I have been in 3 community groups a week. 1 hs kids I lead, one College I lead, and 1 men's group that I am a part of. Graduation is finally over, so I don't have to study anymore haha. Then there is time in the WORD, ELEVATION CHURCH and all the wonderful volunteering that goes on!!! and Work.

But, hey it's the summer time now, so I may be able to start blogging haha.

Just Follow Me on Twitter if you are interested. http://twitter.com/TRI4HIM

God has been doing great things in my life this past year. I have been growing so much, its soo overwhelming. I love it. God has got a special plan for me, just as HE has for everybody. "You can't manage a mighty move of God" ~Perry Noble. Pastor P is soo right, the only thing that we can do is to prepare for it by being obedient, and when it happens, we lean on God. That is the only thing we can do, but trust me, it is worth the waiting and all those mixed emotions.

HEY, I GRADUATED!!!! But even though I have graduated College, I am teachable, willing to grown in my walk with Christ. I am GOOD at my gifting...but not GREAT. I am willing to swallow my selfish pride, and lean on the counsel of those who are wiser than I. I know that I am not the best person at ADMIN stuff. BUT give me a model, a guide, take me by the hand, and I can then reproduce. Encourage me, Correct me, Help me, Believe in me, and then I be sold out on the vision. Then I can take initiative, be faithful in the small things, and be a catalyst for change.

I find that the more I grown in Christ, the more things I don't know about God And the more I want to learn about His Heart. I think we as Christians get caught up in the work of God, and forget to focus on the Heart of God. I have been studying up on this. We are called to Worship a Holy God, but when we do not take time to bask in His Splendor, the Splendor of Him and His Son, we end up running on fumes, and not a full tank.

THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT SATAN WANTS: The Church(Bride of Christ) to get so caught up on the "Work," stressed out maxed out, that we end up running on fumes. We are so consumed with the "Work" of the Father, that we forget to refuel ourselves. Only by coming before the Lord, being still, always asking for a Kingdom Minded perspective, then we will see the Heart of God. And with that means that we have to surround ourselves with Kingdom minded people.

hmmmmmm Anyone can do the work of God, anyone can serve someone... but to Serve God, means to place Him First, to seek His Heart. Then we will know what it means to have a heart full of passion that is striving to serve Christ with excellence. Then we will know how love like Christ as a servant.

My two key words for this season are Prayer and Faithfulness. ha, funny how they go hand in hand.

Well, that was some great rambling. Just needed to get some things off my chest. Ha, and its more for me than for you. It's more like a broken code. When I have time, I will look back on this and God will fill in the blanks, and speak to my heart on a whole new level.

SPRING BREAK

2009-03-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

YAY!! I am so excited to be back home in Cary for the next 3 days!!!
It will be good to see mom and dad and spend some time with them.
I get to spread mulch around the yard which will be awesome because I can work on my tan haha.
Also I can do some triathlon training!! SO EXCITED!!
UNLEASH 09 IS THIS THURSDAY DOWN AT NEWSPRING CHURCH!!! OH YEAH SOO EXCITED!!!

Hope you guys can enjoy this weather and spend some time outside!!!

Wrestling

2009-02-26T20:06:00.001-08:00

So life is really really good right now... School this semester is so amazing, building friendships with people, work is awesome, CHURCH JUST ROCKS... but... God is doing some things in my life right now that I have to wrestle through.

The main thing right now is the whole after college. I have always been told time and time again that in order to be a minister, I have to go to seminary as soon as I graduate. Right now, I do no have a desire to go to seminary. In fact right now, I just want to get as much practical experience of learning about being the hands and feet of Christ. Right now my heart's desire is to network, pour into college kids, and passionately pursue people who are far from God. Now, I know that God may lead me to go to seminary in the future, but right now I desire to pour all I have into doing ministry and not sitting in a classroom. I have been doing that for almost four and a half years, and honestly I am getting tired of learning theory. And so I am wrestling with God. Wrestling hard to determine to if after the summer if it is God's will that I go to seminary of if I will get a job that enables me to make a decent living while doing the very things that I am so passionate about.

I am processing a lot of information, and seeking advice from those who are in the ministry, both "ordained" and non "ordained." The weight of the call is so heavily burdened on my heart and all I want to do is be obedient. Some of the things that I have to process through deal with the issue of my flesh. Since I am rebellious in my ways, some good some bad, is not going to seminary after the summer really my flesh, or is it a direct call from Christ to gain practical ministry experience for an a season that I really have no clue how long it will last?

I do know one thing, and that is Christ will determine my steps. He has already prepared His perfect plan for me. I know that I will be a minister, and that I will pastor people. I take joy in knowing that I cannot see my self doing anything else but to preach His Word.

I know that after Monday I will have a better clue as to which direction God wants me to go. It's just that the waiting is the hardest part. I have been waiting it seems for a very long time haha.

Tonight, I had a great a time with my battle buddy, my armor bearer, Jonathan Reeves. Jonathan is soo anointed, so in tune with the Holy Spirit. He always has a way of being a mouthpiece for Christ in my life. It's always good to have someone assure about the Goodness of Christ. It is always good to have someone in your life who tells you the very things that make you squirm, and uncomfortable. It is always good to have someone who can encourage you, and gently rebuke you. I love Jonathan Reeves, he is the brother I never had, but always wanted. HA! but The LORD worked it out!!!

I do feel challenged, but yet at the same time, I have more of a peace in my spirit about the future. Jeremiah 29:11. Habakkuk 1:5. Hebrews 11:6-7. God is soo good, and I know that the best is yet to come!!!

Just felt like being open and honest with you guys!!!

NEW LEVEL!!!!

2009-02-19T07:58:00.000-08:00

So latley I have not been blogging, ha, what is usual. Whatever lol.
Life has been crazy latley, and that is really okay with me.
God has been placing me in ministry opportunities to help me grow, and to lean more on Him and not my self. I am so excited that my high school community group is picking up. I have 4 guys who I can really pour into and grow closer in Christ with. I have a passion to see the next generation take back this country for Christ, to succeed where my generation has failed, and to do impossible things for Christ's Glory. Now on to UNC-Charlotte!!! The Party bus is going great!!!!! J.R. and his gang really are doing an amazing job with this ministry. And God is blessing them because of their passion and willingness to obey His Word. Freshmen and Sophomore men and women have started a College Ministry that has been a huge success from day 1. I mean that blows my mind. Christ has plans for these young men and women to do unbelievable things for His Glory here at UNC-C and for this city. I am so honored to be able to encourage them and be a part of the mighty move of God.

Yesterday we did some vision casting on campus and spent some time going over our dreams and what we all want to do for Christ. Pastor Steven preached an awesome message this past Sunday on being a Visionary Leader. Pastor used the analogy of being dressed for a wedding but at the gas station pumping gas and feeling out of place. In fact, most of us felt as if we were at the gas station pumping gas, dressed for a wedding. We are dressed for not where we are, but where we are going. When we get to where we are going in Christ, we will fit in because we will be dressed and equipped for His purpose in our lives. I love how Pastor Steven put that. Check out this Sermon

It still blows my mind that despite my imperfections, and my own struggles with pursuing Christ, that He would use me to be a connector to the current of Christ. Jonathan Reeves and I both agreed that we have arrived at the point where our callings are just starting to take off. I mean they have in the past, but right now, God has turned up the intensity, and we are doing the things that we have dreamed about for years. "The difference between a daydream and a burning vision is the audacity to act." I just love this quote from Pastor.
I am so excited and pumped up to see how Christ moves in this city, and how He moves in me and my friends. Even though we know that we are in over our heads, we have peace knowing that Christ has us where we need to be for this season.

Praise God!!!

Why Am I So Passionate About Christ?

2009-01-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

People often ask me why I am so hyped up about Jesus. People often ask me why I am so crazy about life, and why am I so joyful all the time. People ask me why am I so passionate about the Gospel even though it seems dead and irrelevant to this day and age. What is it that makes me enjoy life?

My passion is to see Lost people become saved. To give hope to the hopeless, to give strength to the weak. To seek out lost, lonely and broken people and show them Love of Christ. Why? Because I know a Savior who has redeemed me. I know a Savior who has given me life. I use to go through life hating my self and trying to live up to the standards of the world. I use to feel as if I had to fit in. I thought that if I had sex I would fit in more with my friends. I thought that if I got plastered, then I would fit in. I thought that if I smoked a few joints here and there I would be cool. On the outside, I was cool, very cool in fact. But on the inside, I was so hollow. The more I did those things, more lonely I felt. I found out that all my friends were lonely as well.

I just want people to find hope. I just want people to come into an intimate relationship with Jesus in order that they can be set free. I have been set free. I have a Savior who died on a cross for my sins and who rose from the grave in order that I may be able to have a relationship with Him. I want to see people healed. This Savior loves me freely, unconditionally. If I can love people the way Christ loves me, then I can sow seeds and help to point people to a better life. I want to see a generation, specifically my generation raised up and become great leaders. I want so see an army of people sold out for Christ and who can show Christ's love to a lost and broken world. I ask my friends to come to Church because I see them suffering from the weight of sin. I see them hurt, lost, lonely and broken. They are carrying around so much baggage and it hurts me to see them struggle to try to fix it themselves. I don't ask them to come to Church because I am judging them. I want them to come to Church so that Jesus can save them, and give them a life that they can enjoy. A life where they can live out their full potential, the potential that Christ put in them before the universe was formed. I don't see junk, I see potential. I don't see dimly lit coals, I see burning flames. I don't see followers, I see leaders.

I am so excited that I serve a Church that gets it. I serve a Church who would pay to have college kids picked up at their school by party buses. The same buses that take them to the clubs and back during the week are going to take them to and from Church in the morning without judging them. I go to a Church that is not ashamed to say, Church is a party. A party that does not leave you hung over, but a party that motivates you to seek Christ more and more each day. Elevation Church has been called many things, but one thing it is not is afraid. My friends who party hard, and I mean hard say that the Party Bus is an awesome idea. They are actually thinking about riding the bus and giving Church a try. Why? Because someone actually gets the fact that they want to change their lives and is providing a really cool way to do so. And you know what... we are not going to play just Christian music, but secular music in order to make them feel comfortable and that we care about them. I have been praying about this for over two years, and now we have the means to show them Christ's love in a radical way.

And the best part is that I do not get credit for any of this. Christ, and Christ alone gets the glory, and I am so fired up about that fact. How awesome is it that J.R. Hopson, a freshman, is heading up this project. Praise God for raising up the next generation to boldly advance His kingdom.

"Makes me wanna STOMP!"

The Call!!!

2009-01-22T08:11:00.000-08:00

I am in a season of preparation, where I am discovering how to strategically and intentionally use my gifts to further the Kingdom, and where I can grow in my weaknesses.
This process is one that is all over the place because I often feel so overwhelmed, and at times small and insignificant. For me this season of preparation, the laying and building onto the foundation if you please has at times been emotional. There is a daily fight, a constant battle with the enemy who is trying oh so desperately to hinder my daily walk with Christ. Yet, yet, I am so joyful because I know that God is refining me in the refiners fire, cleansing me, burring away my inequities in order that I may fully glorify Christ in my walk.

ALSO...The Call is so deeply rooted into my being that I cannot run away from it. Oh I have tried in the past, with such fervor and recklessness. I have tried to out run and out distance God by pot, sex, and of course binge drinking. In the early days of college, my friends affirmed my fear of being a preacher by stating that "I would have to be perfect all the time. A preacher's life is boring, full of reading, and spending time with people telling them they are going to hell if they mess up." And the scary thing is, that is what a lot of us think a preacher's life really is. I knew I needed to rededicate my life to Christ, but the pull of college life seemed oh so strong. I thought that I could run away from God for at least a little while. Ha, but trying to run from God is like chasing the wind, useless. Oh but wait, there in the darkness, a light shined forth giving me hope. Bruised and broken, lost in my sin, I had arrived at a Turing/tipping point in my life. A point where I knew that I had to stop running from this Call, and fully surrender my life to Christ.

As I step forward into 2009, I have looked back lately at my past and I am amazed of how far I have come in my walk with Christ. It was been almost three and a half years since I started the process of "Coming Home" as Pastor Furtick puts it.

As I look around me, I see that over these years I have learned to walk more with Christ, than against Him. I have learned more about what it is to be a man, a real man. A real man is a man who fiercely loves Christ, who passionately pursues Him on a daily basis,and who boldly proclaims the Gospel. Our actions, how we walk, talk, live, those actions are bold. Its more than just telling people about the Love of Christ, its is about being the Love of Christ.

I leave you with this passage from 2nd Timothy which speaks volumes to my soul. I will continue to fight, with more intensity than ever. I will encourage more this year, teach more, share my testimony more with others, and spend more time with Christ. I am finding that as I grow more in Christ, I need to spend more and more time with Him. I love that. That pumps me up!!

2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

Does Black go with Brown?

2009-01-18T07:31:00.000-08:00

Does Brown go with Black? My grandma told me that they have always gone together and that is a silly notion that they do not mix.

An article published by a popular men's magazine stated that if you wear Black for your suit or pants then black, tan or camel colored shoes would match.
I also heard that if your suit or pants are Brown then any shade of brown, black, camel colored shoes would match.

In Europe it seems as if Black does go with brown. Certain shades at least?

The Sartorialist

Men.Style.Com
talks about how Brown is the new black, but I think how can brown be the new black when black is black. haha. oh well.

I am in the process of getting a brown jacket, but right now all my jackets are jet black. Some people tell me that my black jacket does not go with my brown shoes(dark color) or my matching belt and some tell me its fine. The only reason I ask is because there are a lot of fashion police out there who love to tell people they don't know that they don't match.

I am not one for dressing up, and I find it a hassle. I usually wear athletic clothing because I find my self doing two workouts on an ideal day. Wearing something nice just makes it a hassle.

What do you think? I have asked a lot of people and I have gotten mixed reviews. I guess I have become obsessed with this question because I just wanted to know if there is a "set ruling."

Your thoughts are welcomed!!!
Thank You!!
~Nick Cook~

Weekend before Grandpa's Triple Bypass

2009-01-17T19:55:00.001-08:00

So today I had the privilege and honor of hanging out with my Grandparents (dad's side) who live in Stokesdale NC. I call them Buelo and Buela which is short for grandpa and grandma in Spanish. Buelo just turned 81 on December 31st and He is in great shape for his age even though he needs triple bypass surgery. He is a vibrant, refined country gent who just got elected to Town Council. He is the God-fearing sort who plays golf at the country club, goes to the beach house when ever he feels like it, and has a made a good name for himself. He grew up dirt poor, farmed most of his life, raised cattle, and drove a truck while raising three kids. He got into the insurance business and has done really well, passing on the family business to his youngest child, my Auntie Angel. He loves to sing, and play guitar. Oh how I love him dearly.

He is getting triple bypass this Thursday because he has 90% 75% and 100% percent blockage in his arteries.

so anyway, today we went to mayflower, ate seafood, and then came back to the house to watch Country music and Bluegrass before going to bed. I like that!! We have had great conversations tonight about the Church, and the importance of music in the Church.

I know God is taking care of Buelo, and tonight, for the first time, I laid hands on him and Buela before going to bed and prayed over them. It was so intense, that I started to cry. Not the few tears, but the kind where if you don't stop to breathe you will pass out. The power of the Holy Spirit overcame us in that room and we all started crying as we thanked Jesus for His goodness. We all felt the power of the Holy Spirit as we lifted up Buelo and prayed protection over him and for God's healing to be present these next few months. I prayed over my grandma because she has dementia and she is scared to death of the possibility of Buelo not recovering from surgery. All I could really say clearly was Thank You Jesus for loving us, and for this family. This family is real love. You are real love.
We have an awesome intercessor for our prayers, and I praise God mightily.

I think I have seen them tear up once or twice, but I have never seen both of them cry.

Oh Gracious and eternal Father, I thank you from my innermost being that You have graciously placed me in a family where I can know Love. I am so thankful and blessed to have been adopted into a family who loves me, and who points me towards you. We are not all perfect, but You oh God, refine us with a fierce fatherly love, burning away our inequities through Your son Jesus Christ. I thank You in advance for the healing that will take place in Buelo whether it be in this life or the ultimate healing that will take place when You call him up. Strengthen us oh Lord so that we may be living examples for Your Glory in this time of need. Thank You Jesus for being the mediator, and for paying our sin debt. All glory, honor and praise to You oh Father, in Christ's Holy name, Amen and Amen.

Back to school

2009-01-13T17:56:00.000-08:00

I have not been blogging because I have been busy with work and trying to get ready for the my last semester as an undergrad!!!
Classes I am taking are:
1) Step Aerobics which should be awesome!!
2) Ballet I. ha, yes I am taking it. Both Step and Ballet will help me on my balance and coordination while building my core. Should help for my Triathlons
3) African American Religions: The African American Church/Civil Rights Course
I love Dr. Rob, and I she is my fav professor. I have a passion for the African American Church and learning more about how I can apply this to my Urban Ministry. Her courses have challenged my faith, yet also have made my faith so much stronger! Praise God!! She is a Christian and that really helps!!
4) Intro to Western Religions. ehh, it should be interesting.

I'll be working almost 35hours as well, blah. But I have a light load so this should be fun.

My small group is awesome!! I know God is doing amazing things in the upcoming generation!!

Theophany

2009-01-07T02:29:00.000-08:00

So I was reading Isaiah last night, and Chapter 6 always speaks to me. It is the part when Isaiah has a vision, he sees the Lord, and the he answers the Lord's call to go prophesy to the nations.

This post would be too long if I copied and inserted the whole chapter here, but I would highly recommend you reading it here. Isaiah 6

What scholars call this encounter with the living God is a Theophany.
"A theophany is a manifestation of God in the Bible that is tangible to the human senses. In its most restrictive sense, it is a visible appearance of God in the Old Testament period, often, but not always, in human form."

Even though in the scriptures no human, save Jesus, though He is a part of God has seen the face of God, or the whole entity, people do see manifestations of God. ( Ex 33:20; John 1:18; John 6:46; John 8:58)
He manifests Himself in ways that the human mind can comprehend in order to fulfill His will on earth. Not only did Isaiah see God, but he saw seraphs, smoke, and he heard the voice of the Lord.
This reminds me of other instances throughout the Bible where God revealed Himself to people.
Take Abraham for example, when the Lord appeared to him on his arrival in the promised land, or when the Lord came to visit him and Sarah to tell them that Sarah would be with child. Gen 12:7-9, and Gen 18:1-33.
Jacob also had an encounter with the living God when wrestled with what was thought to be a man but was actually God. Scholars also believe this could have been an encounter with Christ. That is called a Christophany. Gen 32:22-30.
A few of my favorite ones are when the Lord led the Children of Israel by a could of smoke by day, and a pillar of fire by night.
Gideon saw the Angel of the Lord.
Moses saw a burning bush. (God using and turning the ordinary into the extraordinary to get Mose's attention). Awesome Sermon by my Pastor, Steven Furtick on the Presence of God. Check out the sermon series Presence at Elevation Church

Another one is the encounter that Elijah had at mount Horeb in 1 Kings 19. Not only does the Elijah have an encounter with the Angel of the Lord before going to Mount Horeb but four more times after that encounter Elijah encountered the Living God. The Lord passed by in a powerful wind that tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks, an earthquake, a fire and to me the most important, a still small whisper.

Okay, so what does that have to do with you, me and the rest of us Christians living today? Here is my point. God, in all of His glorious splendor can still manifest Himself today in ways that speak to us. Take nature for example. Have you ever caught yourself watching a sunrise or a sunset? Or how about the stars at night or some sort of beautiful image of nature. Has it ever spoken to your heart, and reminded you of the presence of God? Has it ever spoken to you in that special unique way that automatically makes you think of the sheer awesomeness of God?

We have God's Word, His word handed down to us through the prophets and saints in order to help guide us. What I am trying to say is that yes, it would be nice to see God, or to have an audible conversation with God like Moses did. But as Pastor Furtick says, God can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. My Question is this. How is God trying to speak to you? How is He trying to get your attention through the ordinary, only to turn it into the extraordinary?

Challenge:
What do you have to do in order to get the revelation from God that you are seeking? Is it reading your Bible more and praying? Is it fasting or seeking wisdom from a pastor or a fellow believer? Is it putting God first in an area of your life where you have put up and Idol before the Lord? What ever it is, the Lord is faithful. He is true, He is compassionate. He has a plan for you and remember that your circumstances and situations do not determine who you are. God wants to bring out your full potential, the potential He has placed in you way before you were ever created.

I hope this rambling has helped you. God is sure ruining me right now, and this is just the outpouring of my heart.

Something About The name JESUS

2009-01-06T10:41:00.000-08:00

B and I recently drove up to see my grandparents on Sunday to celebrate my Grandpa's birthday. It was really awesome. On the way, we listened to "Something About The Name Jesus," by Rance Allen and featuring Kirk Franklin. Talk about a Holy Ghost moment.

Well this morning, as I got up early to pray, I watched the youtube video of that song. I thought that I could listen to some music while I read my bible. Ha, when that song came on, all I could do was to stop reading and start praising the Lord. There is something about the name Jesus, there's something about who He is. He is everything to me and when I hear His name being praised, well all I can do is stop what I am doing and start praising His name.
Let me give you another example.
Last night, at small group Andy and I went to the McDonald's near his house. It one of those gas stations/McDonald's that was on a busy road in the middle of the country. Lots of people stopped by to get food and gas and it was interesting to watch them. Well as Andy was telling me about who he would like to see "Come Home" this guy sat down near us and started eating his food.
And every time Andy would talk about Jesus, saying His name, and how good Jesus is, this guy looked at us. I guess that's understandable, and it did not surprise me. I mean hey, we are in the South and everybody talks about God, and throws around the name of Jesus to sound religious. It is something we do down here.
But what was so interesting, was when Andy was pouring out his heart to me about who he would like to see "Come Back Home," come into a relationship with Jesus Christ, this young man stopped his eating, and just watched us. It was just so obvious, and it seemed as if he was trying to make it not obvious. Something about the name Jesus.
Anyway to make a long story short... after Andy had prayed for us, this young man approached us.
"I am so deeply touched and moved to hear you guys talk about Jesus in a way that is real" something like that. "I have recently given my life to Christ this past year, backslided, and I would like have a better relationship with Him." etc you get the point.

My point, is that even by saying His name in our everyday conversations, people's lives can be transformed. We as the Church should not be afraid to lift up the name of Jesus in our daily lives.

I leave you with some quotes from Kirk Franklin.

“Even when we take God for granted, what’s so amazing about God is Paul says He does not treat us as our sins deserve. So that means that even in my imperfections God is still perfect with His grace and His Mercy.

"That's why I don't want people getting comfortable praising the Lord, just when He gives them something. See you gotta learn how praise Him because of who He is, because, see, when you praise Him for who He is you don’t have to wait till the trouble come, to learn how to praise Him.” ~Kirk Franklin~

A season of Preparation: 4 F's of Ministry.

2008-12-28T10:11:00.000-08:00

I sat down with my Mentor, Dr. Rev William Green, associate pastor of First United Methodist Church of Cary, N.C. Brother Green has been doing all kinds of ministry for many years and he has blessed so many people. He has a large repertoire of expertise that ranges from being a pastor at a mega church to spending time with the inmates in the correctional facilities during the week pouring God's love out on them. He has helped to influence life change for hundreds if not thousands over the course of his ministry. William is my Paul if you please, and I am his timothy. He has always been there for me, thick and thin.
Yesterday, we had a chance to sit down over coffee at Starbucks of course, and I just had a chance to sit in the presence of a great man of God as he poured life and truth into me. He really spoke to my potential challenging me to seek out God in the areas of my life where I need Him more. He encouraged me, as always to test the spirits, and to strive daily to be more like Christ. Brother Green as he is often affectionately refereed to, is one of the key influences in my life, and one of the reasons why I am going into the ministry.

We talked about seminary, and I feel as if I am being drawn there more and more each day. I will be obedient and apply, and God and I will go from there. A seminary education would be a great key as Brother Green says, to unlock doors that may help me in my ministry 10years from now.
It was just soo good to finally catch up with him.

Here are the 4 F's to answering the Call to ministry.

FAITH FULLNESS- Am I being faithful to God by pursing the Call which He has placed in my heart, or am I running away from it?
FRUIT FULLNESS- Is the area of ministry that I believe to be my specific calling bearing fruit, or is it withering?
FULFILMENT- Am I being fulfilled in this ministry that I am doing? Does my soul feel alive and intimately connected with Christ? If not, then maybe it is the wrong area.
FAMOUS- Is it making God famous and not me? If God is getting the glory, then often times in the case of ministry, we are overworked, underpaid, and overlooked. Even for those who are famous, ie lead/head pastors, they have their own issues of insecurity which is a way that God humbles them.

So... right now... I am passionately pursing and pouring into college students, homeless persons, and learning the ropes of effective, life changing, hope giving, evangelism that will glorify God.
I love being a volunteer leader at Elevation Church, and growing in the areas of administration that will help me be a better servant. It would be cool to be an intern there someday soon if it is God's will.

I am building my ministry, brick by brick. I know that I will look back on this season some day and fully appreciate the lessons that God is teaching me right now.

Christmas Eve Blessings!!!

2008-12-25T06:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of the best Christmas eve's that I can ever remember because I could actually spend some drama-free quality time with my family, and be old enough to remember it.

My parents and I went to my mom's parents house way out in the country in a lil place called Snow Camp, nc, out on the farm!! oh yeah!!

It was just good to have real fellowship with loved ones and to remember the One who made all things possible!! Even though my heart is a lil saddened that I did not go to the Elevation Christmas, I am so thankful and so happy to be able to record my maw-maw's Christmas memories and to be able to record her salvation story. It was cool to hear how they did Christmas a long time ago, and how life was so different back then. It was good to help her make her bed and lift up the mattress for her so that she could straighten things. It was heart warming to see my paw-paw tear up as maw-maw told those awesome stories of life and being in love as a young woman. Praise God! There is such wisdom, and compassion in that household.

It was good to be able to go back to my home church and to experience my frist Christmas contemporary service. It was held in our fellowship hall, and it was awesome. My mentor. Dr. Rev William Green gave an awesome sermon on the three purposes of Christmas. It was a home run for Jesus. It was good to be able to serve others communion last night and to pour into some young people.

Today, we are going to my dad's parents who live in Stokesdale, 30 minutes from Greensboro. It should be fun, and I bet I am getting my first ever digital camera. Sweet haha.

I am so thankful that my Jesus was born on this day. This day is a day of new beginnings and a new hope for mankind. Thank you God and Praise You for sending us your very best when we deserve your very worst. You are an Awesome Lord, Gracious, slow to anger, rich in love. You are a Great God, a God who hears his people's cries, and who answers them from His Holy Throne.

Sunday Night Reflections

2008-12-20T18:08:00.000-08:00

So today was an awesome day!!! Church was crazy today. Pastor brought a challenging word today and it rocked my spirit. Pastor Steven has been challenging us these past couple of weeks in the area of owning our potential in Christ, listening to Christ, and acting upon what He has placed in our hearts. It has been crazy.

www.elevationchurch.org

I am been more emotional this past month in service. I have been brought to tears it seems every Sunday, and throughout the week. God, despite my crazy self, is speaking life and truth into my soul.
As I look back on today's events with the homeless gang at Elevation Uptown, and how freaking awesome our volunteers are, I have a peace in my spirit knowing that I am where I am suppossed to be. God is getting ready to do some crazy things, and He has been preparing me. Today I talked with Josh Blackson (our awesome Uptown Campus Pastor) about a crazy awesome idea that will revolutionize how college kids from my campus will get to Church.
It is part of the very reason why I came to the Uptown campus from the Butler Campus at the start of Uptown. A 2 year prayer has been answered. I am so stoked!!

I am in the process of getting information on how to start a small group at one of the Men's Homeless shelter's in Uptown. Had a chance to talk with my homeless buddies today about how they would feel about an Elevation Small Group at their shelter. It was well recieved with great excitement. I am finding that God is breaking my heart and giving me a pasison for the homeless more and more each week.

My wonderful gf is back from her mission trip. She is a lil under the weather, but that is to be expect when you have been away for two weeks. So glad she is back safe, sound, and radically changed for Christ.

I am learning more and more about the power of Interceding on the behalf of someone. Oh I have been doing this for a good while, but latley God has been speaking to my heart. I am so glad that I have a friendship built on prayer, centered on Christ, and the overflow of that friendship has created a great relationship. I am so glad that I can pray for her, and intercede on her behalf. You never know the affect that prayer has in someone's life, even if it is just a quick one time prayer. Our God is so big, and so awesome.

I would have to say that it was crazy here when my gf was not around. So many doubts, and frustrations that came from being attacked by the enemy. By praying, reading God's word, and seeking sound council, I have grown in my walk with Christ. It has been a time of testing the spirits, seeing which things are from God, and which are from man. It has been a challenge, but an awesome one.

I get to sleep in tomrrow, and I do not really know how to deal with that.

The Great Divide (mini series)

2008-12-10T21:29:00.000-08:00

I have been sitting all day at Jackson's Java, here by the university and it was awesome!!! well kinda not really. It was great to see old friends, some of them more than once in a single day lol.

It was good to go to Chen's Bistro- the RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEPARTMENT took us Seniors out, well the ones who did Senior Seminar this Semester.

Psalm 37:23-24 (New International Version)

23 If the LORD delights in a man's way,
he makes his steps firm;

24 though he stumble, he will not fall,
for the LORD upholds him with his hand.

Proverbs 16:9 (New International Version)

9 In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.

Today, is a day to be remembered. It is the last full day that I will have to sit at Jackson's as a Undergrad flipping out over writing two finals.

There is just so much ministry that has to be done, its crazy, but its awesome.

I am proud of my HS Small Group Buddy. yeah!!!

not much to say.... Gotta Man up for Christ.... nough said!!!

It's all part of the process, but God is soo awesome!!!! Brick by Brick. Little bit of yeast, little bit of faith. okay so I am rambling, but that is okay, I just wanted to ramble. This is for me.

Almost Saturday..... Thunder Road Half Marathon with dad. It will be awesome!!!

The Great Divide (mini series)

2008-12-08T03:46:00.000-08:00

Today, marks the third day, well four if you count the day spent in another state before going on The Great Divide and the beginning of the first full week of The Great Divide.
I wish it was the Sunday after Next.

Although I am a little depressed, well for good reasons haha, I know in my spirit that someone special, duh my girlfriend, is affecting great change.

I know that she is seeking and saving that which is or those who are lost. She is showing the love of Christ to people who are far from God. She is ministering healing to those affected by a broken world with broken systems.
I can sense in my spirit that today has been a good day for her. I am just so excited for her because I know that God using her to advance His kingdom.

There is more to come, more in store for her and for those around her.

I am praying as always for you. I am praying Psalm 20, and Colossians 1:9-14, Ephesians 1:16-19a, and what ever else I can find.
You got this, go get em! I know you are!!

Confessions of a dating man. Part 1. "Fear of The Lord"

2008-12-07T14:35:00.000-08:00

When I look at my girlfriend, (who is amazing by the way, Praise God) I see Christ and His love and power in her. I see and feel the anointing of the Holy Spirit as she speaks life and truth into my life. Oh I will talk more about this heavenly creature, full of mystery, wonder, beauty and grace later on. But there is something about a Godly woman that captivates a man, yet at the same time scares him half to death. And I mean that with the utmost respect and honor. It is a good thing.

The thought of being in a relationship has always scared the daylights out of me, and even though I am in one, it still is scary. But what is the cause of this fear? For me at least, it is the "Fear of The Lord."
It is an awesome fear, one that speaks life in truth into this almost 23year old man of God. It is good to fear God, to acknowledge His holiness, His perfectness. Now without trying to go really deep, which I probably will, I need to draw out this fear, and why it is import in the walk of a Christian.

I am sorry for sounding a bit heady here. I am a Religious Studies Major, and sometimes the academic study of religion is helpful in the explanation of biblical terms......

Father I pray, that the words that I write will give You glory, and that Your words speak through me to reach those who read this expression of my soul. Amen.

What is the "Fear of the Lord?" What does it mean?

Robert B. Strimple says, "It is the convergence of awe, reverence, adoration, honor, worship, confidence, thankfulness, love, and fear."
Rudolf Otto (19:17) states that the fear of the Lord can be explained as numinous, that is wholly other, which is associated with meanings such as command, or divine majesty.
C.S. Lewis, who wrote the book "The Problem of Pain," builds upon Otto's numinous, stating that the "Fear of The Lord" is to "feel wonder and a certain shrinking" or "a sense of inadequacy to cope with such a visitant of or prostration before it".
This is a fear of out love, love for our Father who is the great I AM.

Let us now look at some scripture to draw this out, and the benefits of fearing the Lord, who loves us unconditionally. Proverbs, to me, is the best source of explaining this "Fear of the Lord" and it does so in a simple yet so powerful way.

Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Proverbs 14:26 "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, And his children will have refuge."
Proverbs 14:27 "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, That one may avoid the snares of death."
Proverbs 15:16 "Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil."
Proverbs 15:33. "The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor [comes] humility."
Proverbs 16:6 By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for, And by the fear of the LORD one keeps away from evil."

NOTE ( Hesed- is Hebrew for Lovingkindness which equals Christ. Christ is Hesed and truth.) To me this is the nature of Christ. Hesed and Truth, what does this mean? His death, that is to say His willingness to lay down His life so that we may have life in Him and through Him, is the atonement for our iniquity. When we have a relationship with Him, and when we fear the Lord, we keep away from evil.) There is of course more going on but I wanted to present an illustration using Christ. I hope that helps, I love that word Hesed, it is one of my favoraite words.

Proverbs 19:23 "The fear of the LORD [leads] to life, So that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil."

Okay, so I hope you get the point. Anyways the Holy Spirit speaks to me, and guides me in this whole relationship process.
I am spending a lot more time listening to God, which is exactly what Pastor Steven preached on this morning.
What about you? are you in a relationship with a wonderful woman of God, trying to be the Man of God that God has created and called you to be? If so, take heart, relax, and remember that God wants so badly for us to be in awe of Him, and to listen as He guides us. I mean relax in the sense not to get lazy, but to give all your fears and doubts to Him, not to Satan, the father of lies.

Proverbs 16:9
In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.

The fear of the Lord is so awesome. It builds character, builds boldness and confidence in who you are and Who's you are. I like that. Don't you?

how to turn "Waiting on God" into "Running With Your Heart"

2008-12-07T14:34:00.001-08:00

So I can be very impatient at times, like really!! One thing that really bothers me is having to wait in line for things. I am ADD/ADHD, whatever, and I just can't sit or stand still for very long time without getting restless.

Which reminds me of how frustrated I get sometimes when people say "Oh well you need to just wait on God," when I am going through a trial in my spiritual life. "Let go and let God." Oh man that floors me because people usually do not tell me how to wait on God. How do I "let go and let God?"
"What do you mean?" "Do I just sit around, and do nothing?" "Or, should I be doing something?"

I think people just say that a lot ( me included) to other people without thinking. It is like the "Christian thing to say." Its good to tell others to wait on God before making bad decisions, or continuing in negative thought which can leave you feeling alone and unloved. But what does that mean?

I believe that God does want us to wait on Him. In his Word, God says in Psalm 27:14.

Wait for the LORD;
be strong and take heart
and wait for the LORD.
But the lie that Satan uses to trick us into becoming static is something like this: "Oh well yes, wait on God, sit back, do nothing, and maybe if you wait long enough, God will do something." "Just wait around, and in time, God will do something...probably....well not really.....okay, you gotta act now"

The danger in doing nothing, is that you are doing something: running away from God. Not God running away from you, you are running away from Him. God is not a God of just waiting around. He is not a static God who wants you to pick a number, and get in line ( the whole time you are complaining about just standing around).

Waiting on God means that you keep praying, you keep asking God to give you revelation. You still go to Church, you still read your Bible, and seek counsel from His Word. I know it is easy to get frustrated, but as Pastor Perry Noble of NewSpring says, "how can you expect to get any revelation from God when you are frustrated with God?"

Remember Paul said in Romans 12:12
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
Waiting is an action the requires us to be joyful in the hope we have in Christ. To be patient in affliction by praying, always without ceasing.

I have been more mindful and intentionally in how I use my mouth to give advice from the Lord. I do not want to use some cliche in place of pouring out what God has on my heart. Now I explain what waiting on God really means. There are tons of verses that can help a person who is struggling with waiting, and it would take me all day to say them. But I just wanted to use the ones that spoke to my heart.

Remember that you are more than a person standing in line, you are more than just some guy/girl. You, as Pastor Steven Furtick says, are a "Divine Design with a Divine Destiny." Go claim it, do not loose heart, keep praying, keep looking, watching, praying, asking, seeking, knocking.

I hope these last verses really encourage you as you struggle with waiting.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
Matthew 11:12
From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.

THAT IS HOW YOU TURN WAITING ON GOD INTO RUNNING WITH YOUR(not just your, but YOUR) HEART!!!

Early Morning Reflections

2008-11-18T04:08:00.000-08:00

God is leading me more and more each day. He is giving me more responsibilities for His Kingdom, and it is a bit overwhelming, but I know that I am in a good place. I am joyful and excited to know that my God, is a God who saves, who loves, and who pours out abundant blessings. I have been reading Ecclesiastes and it has spoken volumes into my life. I am just reminded more and more that my own selfish pursuits are as useless as chasing after the wind. As I take on more leadership at Elevation, and in my friendships, I must remember the One who has given me life. I must keep my focus on Christ.

Also, I am listening to Jason Upton's "You're Not Alone"
but there is an awesome part of another song that carries over to that part:

"Breaking off rejection, with a spirit of adoption, you're not alone."

so much to say, but I have to get to work, blah. But here is some scripture that you can use to pray over your friends as they go through the struggles of life. It has always lifted me up, and I hope it lifts you and your loved ones up.
Try this: replace the word you with the name or names of the ones you are praying for. Let the Holy Spirit speak through you as you intercede for those you love.

Colossians 1:9-14

9For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you^[a] to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14in whom we have redemption,^[b] the forgiveness of sins.

Senior Thesis Updates.

2008-11-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

Praise God, that after a whole freakin semester of loosing sleep, gaining weight, then loosing it, gaining it back, loosing it again, trying to train for a half-marathon, only because I do not have time for a full one, missing class, weekend meetings with my professor, long hours in the library, missing my friends, missing intimate time with Jesus.... I am finally almost done with my Senior Thesis. PRAISE GOD!!! This has got to be the hardest year of college in my whole entire life.

I am so thankful for all the prayers, and words of encoragement durng this semester. I am sorry to those of you whom I have not talk with, or hung out with. Most of you, well except for Sarah Fields haha, are not up at 12-2am ever night, so it just makes fellowship hard. I am so thankful for Sarah being there because she has prayed with me over the phone late at night. God is so good.

Anyways, I am almost done, and I am looking at over 20 pages, which is so awesome. My professor Dr. Fagan, has really called out my potential, and she has helped me to write fine work. I only say this because she her self has said it is fine work, something I still have not gotten use to hearing. I have never been one to logically put my thoughts on paper---academic wise.

It is just so amazing to see God working in my life, even when I have not taken consistent time this semester to get into His Word. I have gotten into the Word, but there have been days when I have missed it.

Thank You Jesus, for loving me as I am, Just as I am, and for blesing me with your Love, Grace, and Mercy.

My presentation went really well. Here is a snapshot of what I spoke about, and what my research is on.

Nicholas Cook, “Black No More: A Literary Analysis of Race, Culture, and Religion Using Rene Girard”

Thesis: Using Rene Girard’s theories, I argue that Schuyler’s novel, Black No More, illustrates the tricky relationship between race, culture, and religion in the early twentieth century United States.

PRAISE GOD!!

Bradelyn Levi's Devo: "Heart's Desire"

2008-11-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

hey gang, crazy day at work, mom and tot day. Crazy little rascals running around the pool deck, life guards jumpin in.... another day at the office lol.

GO READ BRADELYN'S BLOG, her DEVO that got published on the PROVERBS 31 Ministry website!!

now time for more senior thesis, and then high school small group! YEAH!!
then to the library to do a paper, blah.

God is soo good though.

This is going to be interesting

2008-11-09T19:53:00.000-08:00

so apparently.. I am smooth..., real smooth, how smooth Nico, well about as smooth and as subtle as shooting a bullfrog with a cannon... which results in a splatter pattern everywhere.

haha

oh i love this! I am such a guy!!
well, at least I can be honest about it.

ha, oh well, at least I am trying to be strategic.....

Past 48 hrs

2008-11-09T18:18:00.001-08:00

These past 48hours have been awesome!!!!
Great conversations, and great company.
I think I will go buy some gumboots.
My small group that meets on Wednesdays (men's group) has got to be the breakfast club of Small groups at Elevation!! RANDOM FACT!!
Church was awesome today!! Praise God!!!

Paper edit went well with Dr. Fagan today. I think I will hit a home run on this Senior Thesis.

Def say that I have had an amazing past two days getting away from Charlotte, and hanging out with Elevation people in SC.

Great conversations!!
REI was great!

Philippians 1:3

I thank my God every time I think of you.

God is soo Good!

Faith Palmer!!! MUST READ!!

2008-11-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

You guys have got to check out Audrey Pannell's blog on my best friend Faith Palmer!!!

GO READ NOW!!!
AND THEN VOTE FOR HER HAHA!!

Gotta Have Faith-The Loveliest Village.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT THE BOTTOM!!!

Budget

2008-11-05T19:51:00.000-08:00

So we have been talking about money at Elevation. THE REAL CHANGE series. My dad and I are sitting down together, via email and Excel, to discuss ways in which I can personally be more responsible with my money. I am not a frivolous spender, but I know I spend way to much money on junk food, and probably gas. I know I spend too much money on Coffee. When I run out of the stuff at home, I usually hit the local shop.

I know that down the road, I will have to lead my wife. Part of my job is knowing how to budget.

Other than that, school is okay, Senior Seminar paper is finally due next week, and the final presentation is next week. I just hope I can do really well on my next tests coming up so I can pass all my classes.

Next Semester...only need 3 credit hours to graduate, and its an intro class haha. Praise God!!!

The waiting is the hardest part

2008-10-31T20:23:00.001-07:00

why is it that the waiting is the hardest part?
Why is it as Christians we struggle when God tells us to wait. As humans we see this.
I am at one of those times when I can't wait to hear from God about which direction to move.
There is joy, but also I am impatient. I am learning more and more about focusing on Christ as I wait for Him to show me which direction I need to go.

But I am excited to see what God is going to do, because when He moves, He really does moves.
He can do something in five minutes what it takes us a lifetime and then some to do.

Praise God!!

Advice for Single guys part one!!!

2008-10-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

ADVICE FOR SINGLE GUYS-PASTOR PERRY NOBLE OF NEWSPRING!!!!

enough said!!!

Short and Sweet!!!

I RAN TODAY!!

2008-10-21T18:18:00.000-07:00

DUDE!! it has been 5 days of no running, and it has been nothing short of a hell, literally. I am not my self when I do not run/workout. I get very impatient, moody, and I am just plain vile sometimes.

At least Erbie-my roomie and i went for a little jog around the block. I am so looking forward to tomrrow, my like 3 hour class is not meeting, so I can stay up work on my Thesis, sleep in, go to class, run, work on school stuff, and SMALL GROUP!! PRAISE GOD!!!

like 7.5 weeks till the Half-Marathon with dad!!!
Praise God!!!

5 Dollar Faith

2008-10-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

I don't want to have a 5 dollar faith. Sometimes, well recently in some areas of my life, I have felt that way.
Pastor Craig Groeschel spoke at Catalyst, and it was intense.

Three things really spoke to my heart.

1) God Ruin me. I pray that God will continue to break my heart for what breaks His. Right now it is the homeless situation in this city. My heart is breaking for the people who are addicted to drugs, alcohol and who are going through hell right now. Yesterday I saw a guy who was so drunk at 8:30 in the morning that he just kept falling over in the middle of uptown. He was desperately trying to grab a hold of one of the crosswalk posts, but he kept missing. When I ran over to help him, he was just so broken inside, and so drunk. Luckily there was an officer who was near the scene, saw the whole thing and called the medics to come and take him to the hospital. I later found out from one of the other homeless guys that he was in the middle of the street at 4am punching and yelling at cars. That breaks my heart and God has put this vision of seeing homeless people who are broken healed by the sheer awesomeness of Christ.

2) God Heal Me. I need God to continually heal me as I struggle with the issues in my life. Broken relationships, daily struggles as a man of God fighting Satan, and the temptation to freak out when I get really stressed. I pray that God will continue to show me the issues in my life that I need to surrender to Him, and to run to Him, not from Him. I am human just the rest of us, and I have my own baggage as well.

3) God Stretch Me. God is really stretching me right now. With Senior Year Thesis stuff, work, Church, and pouring into people, I am stretched. It is such a blessing to be stretched for God's Glory, but honestly, it sucks sometimes. Gina yesterday, really encourage me yesterday at Fuel Pizza. Sometimes she said, it is God's will for us to love people from a distance...because we no longer are a blessing, we become a burden. This reminded me that I have to make sure that there are people pouring into me, while I am pouring into others. It's part of this process. Balance, Gina said is hard, but it is soo needed. It was such a blessing to spend time with Gina yesterday. She really spoke to my heart, and I am so thankful that she asked me up front, "so what are you struggling with." Even though God is stretching me, pulling me, growing me, He still provides people in my life who can come along side of me and encourage me.

(I took a nap, and now I feel so much better) Time for Small Group!! YAY!!!!

Twitter

2008-10-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

So I got a Twitter now. yay!!
TRI4HIM.
The name comes from Triathlons. I want to Race for Christ, but not just triathlons, but in life.
Just some random thoughts.
God is ruining me, messing me up big time. My vision to help the homeless, the addicts, the prostitutes is growing. There is a guy I know, Kevin who I pray is one of the ones who can get me further on the inside.
I would like to network with organizations in Charlotte, and get educated in the programs that are helping to deal with homelessness. It would be awesome to coordinate something with IMPACT Ministries on Campus, Elevation Church, and Homeless Helping Homeless, with the other churches and orgs, to reach these people for Christ.
I want to help these people, and call out their potential in Christ. How awesome would it be to see more homeless people get out of that hell, get plugged into a Church, and reach other homeless people for the Glory of God.
How awesome would it be to raise up and army in this city that brings hope and healing. The kind that only Christ can give.

CATALYST-"Louder Than Words"

2008-10-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Andy Stanley has got to be one of the greatest preachers out there, and his messages really hit home. Not only does he incorporate humor, and real life stories, but the way he presents the Gospel is amazing. He is so easy to follow, but do not let that make you doubt. Andy Stanley really challenged me at Catalyst.

Here are some of the notes from his sermon "Louder Than Words," that really hit home in my heart.

1) Moral Authority means an alignment between our creeds and our deeds.
As a Christian, I want what I say about Christ, and being a Christian to align up with how I act out my faith.

2) INFLUENCE. Andy said that all we have is Influence. It is at exact value. In other words, it means that what we say and do can radically alter history. I believe that what I say and do impacts others around me. It is the determining factor in showing someone the love of Christ.

3)Moral Superiority= sacrifice & Obedience to Christ. As Christians, we need the Holy Spirit to move in us, to direct our steps, our actions. The Word of God has the final say in all things, but do we really see this as true. I know in my own life, I try to trump God's word with my own word, and those words of others around me. I sometimes doubt the word of God. This Moral Superiority is all about us using the word of God, praying for the Spirit to intercede on not just our behalf but others, and taking the steps to make our creed and deeds match.

4) Public alignment= the mission and the vision. What is our goal as Christians, and the Church(body of believers)? church(institution)? Do we project the message of Christ, or do we try to own it, make the Gospel serve our needs? For too long, I have seen churches and people take the Gospel and make it fit their needs. I my self have done the very same thing in the past. I pray that we(Church) can become one in Christ, and seek and save that which is lost, together. (Luke 19:10)

5) FORGIVENESS- our message should be that. Since we have been forgiven, then we need to forgive others. How can we live out our faith, when we have bitterness in our hearts. How can our creeds match up with our deeds, when we are walking around with bitterness?
Sometimes I struggle with this one. The people in my past sometimes haunt me. The things that I have done, and the fights I have had with my friends sometimes haunts me. I am not an angry person, I just sometimes loose it. I have been better at forgiving, and asking for forgiveness from my friends in the past. It sucks, ya know, the people who really really wronged you, or the people you really really wronged. But lets face it, we need to get over it. Christ has called us to live in His Glory.

Jesus, I pray that You continue to convict me of my own sin, and that I can humbly lay it all down at the foot of the cross. Jesus I pray that You do the same to this generation, and that by Your Grace and Mercy, You, Jesus, make us one. Lead us in the path that leads to righteousness.
Thank You Jesus, Amen.

CATALYST!!! "Bradelyn's Post"

2008-10-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

So I just got back from an amazing CATALYST experience. I am really tired, and God has spoken to my heart so much these past two days. I have lots to say, but more importantly my vision is stronger, and more focused than ever.

Here is Bradelyn Levi's post. I really think yall need to check it out. I hope to be able to write some blogs with her soon. She is an awesome friend, a voice of clarity in my life. She is really on fire for Christ. I hope her post will encourage you and really challenge you.

Past Two Weeks

2008-10-07T21:50:00.000-07:00

okay so I am sorry for not posting, but I have been going out of my mind.

for those of you who have not heard yet, two weeks ago I hydroplaned my car, only going 20miles an hour, and got into an accident. Everybody is fine with no injuries, Praise God!!
well my saturn is totaled. well not really, but considering the year and the miles on it, the insurance company said it would be cheaper for them to just write it off as totaled. So in the meantime I have been using a rental, and bumin rides from Ethan!!! Who is by the way, an awesome man of God, and one of my closest friends. I believe that he knows my better than anyone because of how long I have known him, and plus the fact that we intereact almost on a daily basis.

I have been uber busy with my Senior Seminar Thesis paper, which for the past two weeks has been kicking my butt. All the outlines, revisions, meetings with my class advisor, and my paper advisor. It has not been a pic nic. But at least I am doing the things that I am supposed to be doing.

anywho, my parents have been really supportive about this whole wrecking of the car ordeal. I really love them, and God is teaching me more and more about honoring my parents. I think it changes when you get older, independant like. I still need my parents, it seems is if I am always on the phone with them. I love the communication that I have with my parents. They love me so much and they see the potiential in me, probably more than I see it in my self.

I get my mom's blazer, which I am so excited about getting. Heck, I am just excited that I get a set of wheels. Mom gets a new car, yay!! good for you mom!!! Gas will not be cheap, but I'm getting a system set up.

I think I will start to read up on finances. I am not perfect, I am better off than most people my age. But I need to continue to deveolp good habits that I will use in marriage and the rest of my life. My dad is really good with money, and balancing. I hope to be half as good as him one day.

I am yearning more and more to raise up and army for the Lord. I yearn to be one of those people who can help lead people to Christ, and to present the Gospel in a way that is revelant to my generation, and generations to come. Whether or not I become a Chaplin in the US Army or not, I have known for a long time, that God has called me to be a leader. I am not prideful about this, in fact, it is overwhelming and scarry... I'll write more on that some day.

Anywho, I am growing in my faith, and it has been tough these past two weeks. Oh I have lost my temper, a lot, and it has been directed to this stupid paper, but God is working on my heart. There are still some things that I struggle with, I am like eveybody else, but God is doing more than I can ask or ever imagine.

CATALYST CONFERENCE this WED, THUR, and FRIDAY!!!!

Please pray for safe travel, and that God will just do some more amazing things in my life, and the lives of those who are attending. Please say a prayer for not only Pastor Furtick, but also for the other speakers and volunteers!!!!
PRAISE GOD!!!

Sorry this is generic, but its only a recap

Senior Soul Searching.

2008-09-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

There is a time, I believe in the life of every Senior in College, that they freak out about what it is they are going to do once they graduate.
For some, it is choosing the right gradschool, others, the right job right out of college.
The fear of being hired, the fear of earning a degree that seems promising, but looking at out economy, may not be so promising.

For me, right now, I am yearning. I am yearning so much to know what it is that God has called me to do. I know it is ministry, that is something I have been embracing these last 3 years.
I have been freaking out this past week because I have not spent enough time in the Word, and I have not taken care of my body. It has been two weeks since I have ran, and before that, it was all over the place.
Senior year for me is tough. With my Senior Seminar class, and my textual analysis on theorists, I have spent many late nights and early mornings reading over countless texts.

This Sunday at IMPACT, Justin really spoke some truth that spoke to my inner being. It is Wednesday, and after speaking to my dad last night for like an hour, the truth is finally sinking in. How great is our God, who works His will in spite of me. My dad is a wise man. He really speaks truth into my life, and is both encouraging and challenging.
In order to know what specific ministry God is calling me to, I have to talk with a lot of people.
Military and non-military pastors, church staff members, missionaries, and motivational speakers are on my list.
Maybe going to seminary is for me, maybe it is not. That is not up to me to decide.

The good thing about passionately seeking God, and being fueled with the thought and desire of ministry makes my heart pound. (Job 37:1,5)
My heart is stirred (Psalm 45:1)
This whole thing reveals my desires. (Psalm 37:4)
My heart is set free (Psalm 119:32-34)

God can do anything, more than we can ask or imagine. (Eph 3:20-21)

I did run today, and let me just tell you, I feel better, I feel more alive, a sense of clarity. Emotionally balanced, more in tune with God. I like to pray while I run, and today, I feel better.

Thanks to Bradelyn for encouraging me, and for sharing her heart with me today. We are both in similar spots (ministry after college). It is good to be able to talk with someone who is dealing with that, but who is not struggling as much as me.

I know that today is a great day. I feel as if a heavy weight is being lifted up.

Thank You Jesus, for Your Love!!! You are the sustainer, the great redeemer.

SAVIOR KING-HILLSONG

"Song of Hope" Robbie Seay Band

2008-09-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

When God is going to move mightily in my life, like never before, I experience attacks from the Enemy. There is a sort of discernment in my heart and soul that I get. This uneasy feeling of like being followed, watched...a coldness.
Like some people, or most, who knows haha... I get attacked at night.... dreams, visions, noises, body pain... etc.

I'll tell you more about it one on one, but suffice to say..... It Sucks. It is something that you have to spiritually fight your way through, leaving you tired, and for me, cranky. I get cranky because it throws off my "routine." But that is the point right? To catch us off guard, and make us freak out and panic? Oh I think So.

But the beautiful thing is that I am always, always delivered!!!! ALWAYS! It's one of those things that you know before the attack happens. Like 2+2=4.... Attack +Holy Spirit(calling on the name of Jesus) = DELIVERED!!!!!! OH and The PEACE of CHRIST, that follows after, words cannot express. Even if I do loose sleep, and emotionally I am cranky the next day, I have this peace, this comfort knowing that I have been delivered.

I know that this weekend is going to be huge for me, HUGE. With all the things that are going on in my life right now, this weekend's message from Pastor will speak to my heart, and help to bring about change. There are things in my life that are set into motion and this weekend God will speak to my heart, and tell me which direction to move. There are people that I have to further encourage to come to Church this weekend(beg, plead).

"Song of Hope" by the Robbie Seay Band has really hepled me a lot. This song has helped me to focus on the Goodness of God, and His Love for me.

I am just so excited about SUNDAY!!!

Please Enjoy This Song "Song of Hope"

Visionary Love, Dream Sex: late night ramblings

2008-09-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

So after listening to Visionary Love, Dream Sex part one:Attraction for the second time, here are some of the things that spoke to my heart. Sorry I will ramble a bit, but here it goes.

Be attracted to someone's name: a person's name reflects their character, their reputation. There is a lot in a name... ie JESUS. I personally am more attracted to a person's character than their physical appearance. They could be the hottest thing since sliced bread, but its their character in Christ that I am really focused on.

I have been learning more and more these past 2 years to be a better banner, a covering of Love. To cover my sister's in Christ, to protect them, and their hearts, as would Christ do. It is not always easy, and sometimes it is very painful. I am finding more and more that it requires me to listen more, and then speak. But speak what God has placed on my heart and not just my opinions.

But the joy, and the fruit of being a banner is that I get to see God move in their lives. I am learning more and more to call out their potential, and encourage their hearts. Prayer is really the key, and God is really the one who is doing all of this. I am just so excited to see my sister's in Christ become bold, unashamed, and sold out for Christ.

The good thing about having pure, Godly friendships with my sister's in Christ, is that I get to see real live models of how a Woman of God should live her life. I do have close guy friends, and I do spend a lot of time with the fella's, just fyi haha.

These women have taught me the standards that a woman of God should have.

The best example is my mom. She embodies a Godly Woman. Always striving to grow closer in Christ. Always encouraging me, and calling out my potential. I love my mom very much, and I am so thankful to have her in my life. She has always helped me to find my confidence in Christ.

well I guess I am done for now... not really, but I gots stuff to do.

Women, pray hard about a guy who is pursuing you. Please do not settle for less than God's best.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart, please do not give in to sexual temptation, and let some guy put his hands all over your body.

Guys, relax, get an accountability partner or group. Focus more on your spiritual walk, than your body. Don't date women just because they are "hot" The most attractive thing should her walk with Christ. Yes duh, looks are big, but "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised."-Proverbs 31:30

If you can not be a leader and cover your sister's in Christ in your friendships, what makes you think you can be a leader in a relationship. Wake Up!!!
Seriously, get the whole putting the hands all over her body thing under control.

Pursue through Prayer, always, never stop. Always intercede for your sister's in Christ, and for the person you are interested in/relationship with.

One Thing I have learned...God has revealed this to me...
Do not pray for a girl that you are interested because you think that it will build up credit for you, and make God okay with your stupid self dating her. Instead pray for her because you are excited to see God move in her life, and because you are a man of God. ouch, that stings.

Women, seriously, be modest. Don't be a hoochie, and really, showing your boobs and all that junk, really makes you look slutty. I believe it is one of the most frustrating things for a Man of God. If you want to attract Godly men, then dress with modesty. AND NO DRUNK PICTURES ON FACE BOOK.

Sorry, I just needed to ramble... stressful week with school. Not directed at anyone, just at the World.

Visionary Love, Dream Sex

2008-09-14T19:30:00.000-07:00

What an awesome day today!!
The sermon was just so ummm AWESOME!!
God really brought the Word, and it really hit home!!

Just so much to process.... I will write about it when I listen to the Sermon again.

WOW!!

Praise God!!!

I am just so excited!!

Vision Casting, next steps in this process in order to be more of the man that God created me to be!!!

Stay Tuned!!!!

Mean while, Elevation Made the Front Page Paper!!

Check it out!!
A Cool Pastor, And A Hot Church

1,000 Fliers

2008-09-13T04:03:00.000-07:00

I am posting Ethan's blog in here so that yall may read it and be caught up on what God is doing in our lives this week.

We got some fliers this past week, and went door to door in his dorm. It was crazy awesome, you have to read about it here. Ethan King

We have this passion to reach people for Christ on this campus.
Anyway, we pretty much ran out of fliers and we wanted to get more.
I called the office, but I could not get a hold of anyone at the time who knew if there were more fliers to give me and Ethan so we could pass them out on campus.

Wednesday night I prayed before going to bed: Lord, we love doing this for You we want to see lost people come into a relationship with you, and see others who are saved be able to find a church where they can get plugged in. If this is Your will, and Your desire for us, would you please have someone from the Elevation Office call me in the morning and give me more fliers.

OH MAN CHECK THIS OUT!!

So Thursday morning, I am getting some breakfast, and the phone rings. It is Larry Brey, and he says that he has 1,000 fliers specifically for the UNCC campus, and they are all mine to come and pick up. PRAISE GOD!! HE IS SOO GOOD!! WHAT A MIRACLE!!!

Could yall just please pray for Ethan and my self, but more importantly could y'all pray for the people when hand these fliers out to. I am declaring in the Lord that people's hearts would be open to receive the drawing of the Holy Spirit, and that people from UNC-C will get saved during this series.
Thanks for being in agreement.

(if you want to help, please post a comment here or on facebook)

Praise God!!!

The Fruit of Intercessory Prayer

2008-09-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

"Prophetic intercession is the ability to receive an immediate prayer request from God and pray about it in a divinely anointed utterance" (Dutch Sheets) .

Romans 8:27 & 34: "Intercession" – Greek = "entugchano" meaning "to chance upon, to confer, to entreat," and is translated as – "to plead, to appeal."

Romans 8:26 – The Spirit of God "intercedes" for us – root word means – "to intercede, to make petition" – like the petitions we make to Government, when we want to be heard – signed by thousands. The Holy Spirit doesn’t have to get millions of signatures – His Word is enough before God.

I have just been in awe, sheer awe of the Goodness of God. He is moving mightily in my life, and the people's lives around me.
I am seeing both saved and un-saved people's lives affected by prayer.
I am seeing God do amazing things, one after another.
God has given me this gift in order that I may help bear people's burdens, and encourage change in their lives. It is such an awesome gift that I get to use to help Glorify God. By praying specifically for people, and watching God move, always changes my outlook on life and prayer.

I am seeing the Holy Spirit draw un-saved people closer to Christ on a daily basis, and I am seeing saved people deepen their walk with Christ.

God is moving in people's relationships, drug and drinking problems, contentment with singleness, family issues, issues with revelation, healing, eating disorders...and more.

Right now, a lot of it has to do with the fact that I am finally content in my singleness. Thank all of you for the many prayers, and the long time it has taken me to get here. Thank all of you for interceding to God on my behalf that I would continue to reach my full potential in Christ. These prayers have changed my outlook in like, and have fueled my passion more and more these past several months. Your support; words of wisdom, encouragement, loving rebuke, and the sheer power of prayer, have been huge factors in my walk with Christ. Thank you all!!

I know God gets all the glory, but thank you for being obedient to His Will.

Who is it in your life that you need to specifically pray for? Who in your life needs life changing prayer in order to deal with the blows of life and reach their potential in Christ?

Earth Shaking Prayer

just some rambling

2008-09-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

So I am very very excited because my dad and I are both going through the book of John together. We are going to read a chapter each day, and then discuss what really stood out to us.

I just got done reading Black No More for my senior seminar, and let me just tell you it is a great book!! I am so excited to be able to do my senior paper (at least 20pages) on something which really speaks to my heart. Religion, and Race, and the problem of justifying racism using religion.

DAVIDSON WORSHIP TONIGHT!! OH YEAH!!!!
I'll write more on what God has been doing in my life this week later on!!!

Ethan King...nuf said!!

2008-09-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

So much can be said about Ethan King, my main man, and very true friend of about 4-5 years.
I have gotten to know Ethan really well, especially these past 2 years.
I have seen him grow in Christ, through the tough times and the great times.
I have seen first hand what God can do with a young person who is passionately seeking God first, before anything else.
He has always been there for me, and even though I have been mentoring him, he is now mentoring me in some areas of my life.

God is just so good.

Hebrews 10:24 says this:
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."

Ethan, has just been a positive influence in my life. To be able to fellowship with him, has just changed my perspective of life. When God calls us to pour into people, and when we do, He can do more than we can ever ask or imagine!!

Ethan is just sold out for Jesus. He walks Jesus, talks Jesus, he breathes Jesus. God has such a mighty hand on him, and God has called Ethan to do big, things, life changing things. To impact this campus, and this city for the Glory of God.

To just be around him, really brings me joy. Ethan is so positive, and others are attracted to the Joy of the Lord that is in him.

Ethan, I love you man!! Man of God!! I just wanted to say thank you, publicly for all the hard work you put in for Christ. All the late night talks you have with others, and the passion in which you serve Christ, is challenging, and encouraging.

Continue to walk in the way that leads to life. Continue to push through the hard times, running hard after Christ.
We both have a long way to go, but I know that God has placed you in my life as my sounding board. A person who I can always turn to when in need. And this year, already, you have done a hands down job of that already.

Be encouraged man of God, and challenged by this.

Acts 20:24, remember!!!
Luke 19:10.

Again, I love you so much man of God!!!

GO READ HIS BLOG OKAY!! RIGHT NOW EVERYBODY!!!

ETHAN KING

how to turn "Waiting on God" into "Running With Your Heart"

2008-09-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

Last day of Daniel Fast

2008-09-07T14:43:00.000-07:00

Dude, today was just so awesome!!!!
Today the Daniel Fast ended, and it has been just an amazing time for me.
The results of fasting and praying as a church for those whom we want to see come to know Christ are just mind blowing. 903!!! 903 people who have given their lives to Christ, and who are starting their next steps.

All the fasting, the not eating of the foods that we take for granted each day is nothing compared to the suffering of those who need a relationship with Christ. To see the Church as a whole come together to fast and pray for others, opens the door for God's Holy Spirit to be unleashed and do more than we can ever ask or imagine.

I am just so blessed to be a part of something bigger than me, something that is so huge, it can only come from God: To see lost people come into a personal intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.

Oh yeah, today I got to help do set up with Lance Daniels, and Mark Bowen. Man was that fun!!!! I def love setting up with those guys, and I feel so alive serving Elevation. Being a greeter, and setting up, building community, just brightens up my soul.

OH CHECK THIS OUT!!
Today, my friend Gina and I got to serve HOLLY FURTICK!! OH YEAH!!
To be honest, I didn't know what to expect, I didn't know how we would be able to serve her. It was just so awesome being able to do small things, to serve one of our key leaders. It was a very humbling and wonderful experience. Holly is such an amazing person, filled with the Holy Spirit. She is so sweet and kind. And man, does she love Jesus!!
I am just so blessed to be a part of Elevation, a Church where it's leaders are just so focused and sold out for Christ!!

And finally, I got to eat some real food at the Cook/Angel family reunion. OH YEAH! Southern style Mac and Cheese, meatballs, pork tenderloin, ham, Home Made Chicken Pot Pie!!! OH YES, with Home Made Ice Cream!!!! oooohhh man!! Praise God!!!!

God is soo good!!

Thursday Night Worship @ Davidson

2008-09-05T07:38:00.000-07:00

One thing I really look forward to as school starts is going to Davidson College Thursday nights for worship.

It is a time and place where I can go and get refreshed by spending intimate time with Jesus.
Last night was just so amazing. Ethan, my main man from back home who is a freshman, rolled out there with me early to pray before worship.
I really had an amazing time praying with people for God to move in worship. God is soo good!!
He showed up last night, just as He always does, and man, I was just blown away.

For me, Davidson worship means a lot to me because no matter how bad my week has been, I have a place and a time where I can just go worship God and how good He is. I get to journal while people are singing over me.

I really am so blessed to have Lauren, Jake, James, Conor, Brad, Sarah Kay, and all those who are a part of Davidson worship in my life.
Davidson Worship always helps me to get the right perspective of just how good God is.
I just feel so refreshed, and so excited to see God move more in my life and those around me.

Man, God is soo good. Thank you God for this amazing week, and the amazing friends you have placed in my life.

Can God really use our suffering to bring others closer to Him?

2008-09-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

So recently there has been some stretching and pulling from God that has been going around in my life and my friend's lives as well.

Each of us have been experiencing growth, at different times, and at different levels. In fact for most of us, there is always a hard trial that God leads us through, before we (humans) see the work that God is doing and see the impact it has in other people's lives.

Like Christ, our sufferings have the potential to lead others to God. Our sufferings have the ability to show others just how much we need Christ, and just how good God is, even when the bottom falls out. We can show others the hope that we have in Christ.

Now, I know this is not all oooey gooey...Life is hard, and it really sucks at times.
When our everyday rituals get shredded, we tend to loose focus, get frustrated, and head off course.

This past Sunday Pastor Steven used the story about when Lazarus died, and when Jesus raised him from the dead, to teach how to deal with the times when it seems as if God is not showing up in our lives in times of crisis.

Pastor Perry Noble also preached on what do to when it life gets harder and the bottom falls out. When we run so hard after Jesus, and when we are faced with life changing, faith altering circumstances that leave us frustrated, scared, and ready to throw in the towel.

I challenge you guys to watch both sermons in order that you may better understand how "God can take our greatest pain, and turn into our greatest gain"
Elevation Sermon: "I Am The Resurrection"
NewSpring Sermon: "It's Midnight"
Sermon starts around 11:30 if you wanted to skip the worship.

For me, and you can ask my mom, and those who know me very well... when I get out of my normal ritual, especially my workout ritual...I get very very cranky. I get stressed out, and I have all this energy that I need to get out.
I am already an impatient person, and I become even more impatient. And the reason why I do not get to work out is because I have so much school work to do, and ministry work.
My intimate time with God also goes out the window, so I am tempted to sin, to get angry with others, to doubt my self, and to become static.

Sometimes after that, I get the fear of never getting back to the place where I was before, or moving forward. I feel as if I am worhtless.
BUT, God does deliver me, every time, whether it is in the way I want it to, or not. and that gets me pumped up. God is so great.

Point: I am not perfect, I am human like the rest of us. Others believe that life is always great for me, that I do not struggle with insecurities, that I do not get stressed out, maxed out. But I do, and I need Christ just as much as the next person. Sometimes I feel I need Christ more because I become such a wreck.
Main Point: God will use our sufferings, just as He used Christ's to lead others to Him, and He will always deliver us, ALWAYS. He is God, He is just soo good.

What will you do? How will you give your suffering to Christ so that He can use it to bring others closer to Him? How will you let God deliver you?

Have you told someone today that JESUS loves them?

2008-08-31T18:41:00.000-07:00

So it was a typical Saturday at Ray's Splash Planet.
Lots of people, rain, small Thunderstorm... the usual summer thang.

So I was having fun in the Lazy river, spinning kids, and rocking their inner tubes, and these kids come up to me...
"Hey man, you're a Christian right"
"Yeah" I reply
"well Jesus loves you man" the young boy said (Jimmy)
His buddy John and their friends all kept saying it to me.

Then they went around the pool telling the life guards and people there that Jesus loves them.

How awesome is that!!!
I think me, included that we often get intimated to share the fact that Jesus loves you with people because we don't know how they will react.
I feel that we often feel ashamed (our culture is not really a huge fan of religion).

God brought those kids into my life this weekend to encourage me, and to challenge me.
This week, I am going to pass out fliers for Elevation, and to tell people that Jesus loves them instead of just beating around the bush about church.

Don't get me wrong, I do invite people, but I need to also tell them that Jesus loves them just as they are.

What will you do?

Thank God for Trader Joe's!!

2008-08-27T15:33:00.000-07:00

well as most of you know, the Daniel Fast is still on!!

All ORGANIC, fruits, juices(no artificial sugars), whole wheat bread(Kosher) Brown Rice... you get the point

no meat, dairy, enriched foods, soda, coffee, candy, chocolate, etc, you get the point.

(herbal tea i believe is okay).

Trader Joe's the wonderful place, where I can get Vegan foods, like veggie hot dogs, soy milk, vegie ice cream(not real ice cream, all soy hahah but with real fruit)
I got like everthing, brown rice, lentils, etc, it was amazing.

Sorry this post is like all over the place, very busy day, but yes, if you are looking for a place to get food for the Daniel Fast, I highly recommend Trader Joe's. Its not too expensive!!!

IMPACT

2008-08-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

Last night, it was the kick off service for IMPACT!!! God did more than we ever expected or could ever imagine.
The place was almost packed out. There were so many new people who came out last night, and who worshiped like never before.
I firmly believe that God is going to do something awesome on our campus.
At first, Justin Wallace, gave us some sad statistics. 25000 students attend UNCC, but as of last year, only about 500 attended Campus Ministries.

I believe with all my heart, that this year, things will be different. Christ has called this generation to rise up, and to spread His Love, be His hands, His Feet.
With my whole heart, I believe that at least 100 people will give their lives to Christ by the end of the school year. God has placed that number so deeply on my heart this past summer. The harvest is so plenty, and we are getting more harvesters each day. Through Impact specifically, I know that God will do more than we can ever ask or imagine to reach this campus for Christ.

We are a Luke 19:10 ministry, seeking and saving that which is lost.
The passion is more intense this year, there are more broken hearted people who need an intimate relationship with Christ.

Lord, Thank YOU so much for your Love, and for sending Your Son to die on the cross for our sins. Thank YOU Jesus for rising from the grave, and giving us a new start, a new life.
Bought at the highest price, love with the fiercest love, we are a people undeserving.

This is the song of the day:

To Know Your Name-Hillsong United

Daniel Fast Week 1

2008-08-25T12:39:00.001-07:00

Sorry Bradelyn lol, I stole your title haha.

So yesterday marked the end of the first week of the Daniel Fast!! Wow, God is just doing so much not only in my life, but also in the people of this city as well.
Ethan, my main man and I had a chance to go to the Awakening, an event specifically to challenge and encourage middle schoolers and high schoolers. Pastor preached amazing messages, Friday and Saturday night. I really felt the Spirit move in those students. The place was packed. Over 180 Students gave their lives to Christ!!! AWESOME!!

Also, yesterday, over 4800 people attended Elevation Church!!! 420 people in the services professed Christ, with a total of 600 people this past weekend. PRAISE GOD!!!

Yesterday at UPTOWN was so amazing!! The place was almost packed out!! Praise God!!!!
Over 500 people came out.
Just being able to serve Christ, and serve people is a really humbling, yet exciting experience. Being able to greet these people as they come to Christ really encourages my soul, as well as theirs.

I am just so excited to see what Christ does next!!! Tonight is the first night of my hs small group. I am so excited!!!

Thank You Jesus!!!

To Know Your Name-Hillsong United

Actively Single, or Passively Single? This past month...

2008-08-24T20:38:00.000-07:00

So this past month has been amazing for me. God has really been stretching and pulling me. He has moved me out of my comfort zone.

I started off these past month passively single. I was talking with Danah and Womack today at Java's and their friend came up with this theory, that Pastor, and other pastors have talked about for ages. Brett's theory is simple, yet so powerful.
Here it is:
Are we passively single, that is not content, not taking full advantage of our singleness to advance God's Kingdom. OR Actively Single, that is content, knowing full well that we are God's hands, and that we are called right now, to live, fully, and boldly in our singleness to advance God's Kingdom. Do we set our aim on things higher than this world, honed in to God's Holy Spirit? If we are actively single, than we are caught up in matters of God's Kingdom.

1 Corinthians 7:32-35

This reminds me of the many talks, I have had with my Entourage.
I don't have it all together, I make mistakes, I mess up. I worry, I get stressed out, and one issue for me is this whole singleness thing.
This past month, God has shown me where my fault has been on this issue.
Yes I am doing ministry, yes, I am advancing God's Kingdom, but I have been yearning for my wife. ya know, looking, searching, daydreaming.
I have wonderful friends who have prayed for me, and still are, friends who care about me, and who want to see me reach new places in Christ Jesus.

I firmly believe that God uses people around us, people in our lives, not just our friends but random people, to speak life and truth into our lives.

I have realized that I have not been embracing my singleness. I have not been joyfully enjoying this season of my life.
God has shown me what great credibility I have as a single man of God. I have this great and special opportunity to live my life as a witness to others who are struggling with this same issue.
I can relate to others, and encourage others using the Gospel. I can be fully focused on God's affairs because I am single.

I am a better man today, because I have finally let God fill me up, and breathe His creative power in me. I have stopped fighting God, and just let His truth take hold in my life.

I am excited about this season now. I am fully content, knowing full well that He has that special wife out there for me. This has been a struggle of mine. Even though I have not had a gf in over a year, I still have been pursuing possible candidates.

Just because this world tells me to not wait, does not mean that God is telling me to not wait. In fact He is working so mightily in my life right now, that the best thing for me to do is to stay focused and stay in the race, running for the prize. In other words, to just chill out on this whole finding a wife business and focus fully on seeking and saving that or those who are lost by being an example.

Who do you have in your life who has your back? Who do you have in your life who will speak life and truth into your life, whether you want to hear it or not?
I pray that you have somebody. I know I have quite a few, and that is very frustrating at times because I am hard headed.

Praise God!!!!

HELLO HELLO!!

2008-08-21T20:25:00.001-07:00

So I have been taking a hiatus from blogging, only because I have been journaling a lot on the fly. I just carry it with me wherever I go now. I journal at work, home, even at the beach.

I am sorry for those of you who have checked to see if i have written anything crazy latley. I have not, but rest assured, I will be posting journal entries from the past month.

I am excited to have had the chance to stay at my grandparents beach house in Emerald Isle this past week. No internet, it was great.
I am excited about the GOSPEL, the new series Elevation will be kicking off the fall with.
Tomrrow night I go to Providence for the AWAKENING, an event for students. I am so pumped to meet the high school boys who will be in my small group. How awesome is that!! Plus my main man Ethan King will be going to UNCC in the fall, so me and him get to sharpen each other this whole year!!!

adios

YES!

2008-07-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

Long Story Short...
I am just so glad that Marissa is back and that God is moving in her life.

Also I had the most amazing time home with the rents ( why I have not been blogging)
Race was allright, run was a lil slow because I was sick for a week (bad chicken) blah.
Poo Pantz's birthday was awesome, great to see the gang and meet new faces from Victory Fellowship Church!!!
Great to finally meet up with some youth from back home!!

I can't wait to see how God works in these next few weeks!!!

just a few things

2008-07-13T12:46:00.001-07:00

So I have been so busy with life latley to blog. I know I know... blah blah

But I just have the most amazing friends who sharpen me, and encourage me to passionately pursue Christ.
I have an awesome family who loves me and supports me.
ELEVATION IS FOR ME... FYI... ha ha

I had a good race today despite being sick for a week due to food poisoning. My run was slow, but my swim was good and my bike was good. I got to catch up with old friends, and make new friends.

I just love being back home in Cary and spending quality time with my family.

"The More I Seek You"

2008-07-03T05:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, so at first, I was very reluctant to watch this video by Kari Jobe,(click on the name for the video) that my friend Meredith Workman recommended. I guess it was the fact that I would probably end up crying my eyes out, and all that mushy stuff. (many of you already know I have a soft side, shh let us not tell the whole world)

Well I just have to say that you have to watch it. And try to find some room to move around, or lay out.
Also get a box of tissues, because you are going to cry. Yes, Yes, I cried. I throughly enjoyed this video.

Just me and my Maker, alone, spending intimate quality time, breathing life and peace into my soul. Being filled up with His creative Power. His Creative Life. A peace that transcends all understanding (phil 4:7).

Here is the progression....

A whirlwind of thoughts and emotions
a raging sea of anxiety
Only to be tranquiled by a still small whisper...
A whisper that is so quite, so within me, yet so powerful, it created the heavens...something I cannot wrap my mind around, yet melts my heart at the thought of it... a whisper that I yearn to hear from God each and every day.
The sense of worth, the feeling of knowing that I am a Divine Design, with a Divine Destiny.
The joy of having loved ones who love me for who am I.
I could go on and on... but let us focus on the peace.

"I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming."
THE LYRICS ARE:

The more I seek you,
the more I find you,
The more I find you, the more I love you

C:I wanna sit at your feet
drink from the cup in your hand.
Lay back against you and breath, here your heart beat
This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand.
I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming
(From Top)

Chorus:4x

PRAYER REQUEST!!!!!!

2008-07-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

I would love if it you guys would pray for Wade and Ferris Joye, and their two new little girls Liana and Adleigh as they battle for their health.

Here is the scoop from Kelly Mac's Blog

Thank You All, and God Bless!!

A still small whisper... my devo today

2008-06-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

1 Kings 19:11-13

11 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by."
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

Psalm 46:10-11

10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."

11 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah

In Small Group tonight, we were talking about being frustrated, or in a state of anticipation of what God is doing in our lives. Are we more frustrated because He has not shown Himself in our current situations the way we want Him to, has He not delivered us from a trial yet? etc...

Or are we in a state of anticipation of what He is going to do next in our lives? Are we willingly seeking Him with our whole heart, and excited knowing that whatever it is that He does, it will be mind blowing?

This topic was picked from the One Prayer Series sermon by Pastor Perry Noble

As I was reading my devo today, I came across the passage where Elijah was seeking after God. He was frustrated because he had done so much, but it seemed pointless because he said that he was the last prophet (the one God was using) and people were looking to kill him. God's people were off doing sinful things, and not turning back to God.

Sometimes in my life, especially when life is busy, I get frustrated at God. I expect Him to show up and do big things, with loud bells and whistles. I have this yearning to do His will, to be the Man of God He wants me to be, but I get impatient and frustrated.

I throw my hands up, and get frustrated because I do not take the time to listen to God. Elijah witnessed 4 major shocking events; the Wind that tore the mountains apart, the Earthquake, the Fire and finally the Still Small Whisper. I feel that I expect God to show up in my life in a similar scenario. Well like an angle, or a heavenly voice... that sort of thing.

What I should be doing in those times is looking to God's Word, and spending more intimate time in prayer. God appeared to Elijah in a still small whisper.

I should be still before the Lord, and let Him guide me the way that is Perfect, not the way that is Convenient to me...

My one prayer this week is this:

Dear Jesus, please help me and the World to be able to listen for that still small whisper, that same voice that spoke the earth into existence and motion, so that I may be the Man of God you created me, and called me to be. Help the World hear that voice so that they may come into a relationship with You, and have and abundance of life in You. Thank You Jesus for willingly dying on the cross for our sins, and rising from the grave, so that each of us may have the chance to spend eternity with You. Amen.

"All Because of Jesus"

2008-06-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

All Because Of Jesus lyrics
Casting Crowns

Giver of every breath I breathe
Author of all eternity
Giver of every perfect thing
To You be the glory
Maker of Heaven and of Earth
No one can comprehend Your worth
King over all the universe
To You be the glory

And I am alive because I'm alive in You

It's all because of Jesus I'm alive
It's all because the blood of Jesus Christ
That covers me and raised this dead man's life
It's all because of Jesus I'm alive
I'm alive, I'm alive

Giver of every breath I breathe
Author of all eternity
Giver of every perfect thing
To You be the glory
Maker of Heaven and of Earth
No one can comprehend Your worth
King over all the universe
To You be the glory

And I am alive because I'm alive in You

It's all because of Jesus I'm alive
It's all because the blood of Jesus Christ
That covers me and raised this dead man's life
It's all because of Jesus

Every sunrise sings Your praise
The universe cries out Your praise
I'm singing freedom all my days
Now that I'm alive

I'm alive, I'm alive, I'm alive

I think this sums it up...

2008-06-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

STEVE FEE "Burn For You"
(I bolded some of the things that spoke to my heart)
ps hearing Kelly Mac and Mack Brock sing this song, really sends chills, good chills down to the depths of my soul...

There's a stirring in my heart
Unexplainable
There's a calling on my days
Undeniable, yeah
And there's a fire in my bones
Uncontainable
And it's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
For you

I'll go anywhere
I'll do anything
At any cost for you
My King

There's a passion in my heart
For the world to see
Revival fires burn
A great awakening
And there's a raging fire inside
That's so high
And it's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
For you, yeah

[Repeat Chorus 2x]

Oh, burn for you
Yeah, burn for you
To the ends of the earth
To the ends of the earth
To the farthest part
Til every heart has heard

To the ends of the earth
To the ends of the earth
To the farthest part
Til every heart has heard

There's a stirring in my heart
Unexplainable
And there's a calling on my days
Undeniable
And there's a fire in my bones
Uncontainable
And it's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
It's causing me to burn
For you

[Repeat Chorus 2x]

Burn for you
Yeah, burn for you
Oh, burn
Burn for you
Yeah, burn
Burn for you
To the ends of the earth

Yearning( what is on my heart...past month or so)

2008-06-23T21:44:00.001-07:00

latley I have been too busy to blog. I have been keeping a daily devotional journal, and I have been working two jobs, training for races, racing, spending time with God, and reading BLUE LIKE JAZZ and now reading Pastor and Clayton King's book on relationships.

I am sorry to the few readers who have been reading and keeping up with my blogs.
I have been keeping up with yours (blog roll) but I have been so busy latley.

I cannot sleep, I am just yearning. Yearning to get closer with God. Things are great, amazing, and God's Grace, Love, Power, inspiration have been doing great things in my life.

Between reading 1,2 Samuel, and now 1 Kings, Blue Like Jazz, and Pastor and Clayton King's book on relationships... I have this yearning, deep inside of me. Its a deepening hunger and thirst to be filled more and more with Christ, and less and less of me.

I have been preaching more sermons to my house, and to my self, saying the many things that God is placing on my heart and soul. I have been conversing with close friends about the sheer AWESOMENESS of CHRIST. I have been seeking Wisdom, and yearning to be more like King David and King Solomon. I yearn more and more to be the Man of God that God wants me to be.
I yearn to be filled with God's wisdom, His understanding of my heart, and the world around me.
This One Prayer series is really messing with me. I cannot help but to talk with others, Christian and non-Christian alike about all the petty differences that THE CHURCH focuses on.
I yearn to break off the unnecessary traditions of my past, my pride and pre conceived notions about other Christians, or those who profess that they are Christians(but who are not really Christians). I yearn pull out the plank in my own eye about "religiosity" and to encourage people more about the Gospel.

I yearn more and more each day to be a minister in the Army, and to reach out the the lost people in this city (esp the homeless)

I yearn to see and speak with my old friends who are back home.
I yearn for the healing of my of Grandpa's knee, and for the clarity of my grandma's mind(dad's side)
I yearn for the healing of my Aunt Gayle's heart as she deals with a bad breakup.
I yearn for the healing and clarity of mind for my paw-paw, and the patience of my maw-maw as she helps him with all his ailments. I pray for health for her. (mom's side)
I yearn for the seeking of Christ for my aunt and uncle
I yearn for the move of God in my many friends lives's as they seek God, and for peace, and joy.

I yearn for this world to stop hating each other, and for us to embrace Christ.
I yearn to see more lost people come to Christ, and start a new life with Him.
I yearn to see us Christians learn to become dangerous for Christ, to step out of our comfort zones, and allow God's healing, and power to consume us, so that we may be a light in this dark world.

I yearn to be more like Christ...

Foundations

2008-06-10T17:59:00.000-07:00

in response to my friend Sarah Field's note on Facebook...she wanted me to post my encouragement here as well....

MATTHEW CHAPTER 7

The Wise and Foolish Builders
24"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."

Here is what the Lord laid on my heart last night, and we talked about it. I will try to write it the way God's wants me to.

So many of us try to find the perfect relationship. We look in all the wrong places, and we listen to all the worldly advice from the "guru's." Sarah, like we talked about, not just in our own lives, but the lives of others, we have built our houses on faulted foundations.

When the foundation is not level, or it is cracked ( our perspective's and aspirations of a perfect relationship) the house that we build will crumble and fall. When we build our hopes and dreams around those things that do not come from Christ, we tend to find ourselves having to renovate our houses(our hearts, lives) time and time again. We try new things, go to great heights to make our houses attractive, or inviting. But all that is foolish like the fool who built his house on the sand. Only after countless "home projects" we realize that we have to tear the whole house down, and start again, which is dreadful, horrible, and leads us down a road filled with Satan's influence.

2 Corinthians 5:17
17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

So when we let Christ be our foundation, His Word, His Love, we do not have to tear our house down anymore. It will stand the test of time because our foundation will be firm. We are a new creation, and we will always remain a part of Him and His "Hood" so corny but i love it!!

Only when we spend intimate time with Him...studying His Word and praying... will we become content in our singleness. Content in knowing that Christ has already picked out that one perfect spouse for us. We should also surround our selves with other strong believers who set the standard high, just like in your note. When we have those who shine for Jesus and lead by example in our lives, our lives will start to shine more for Jesus.

Proverbs 27:17
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another"

1 Thessalonians 5:11

11Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Hebrews 10:24
24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

Maybe we should be spending more time making sure our foundation is firm and true instead of focusing on the decor of our houses.

Restless night before the Kerr Lake Triathlon

2008-06-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

have not slept very well, and I have my race, but I have just been spending time with my Father.
I am spending some intimate time with Him, and He is speaking to my heart.

It is hard being an athlete, being an athlete in this world. The pressure is huge, the pressure to preform, especially when you have some talent.
My main prayer is that somehow, when I race, and the way I race, will reflect Christ. I hope that in speech and deed, "I will magnify the Lord, who is worthy to be praised" haha AWESOME SONG!!!!!!! I yearn, and hunger to be a witness, a testament to the Light, to Christ. I as well other athletes struggle and wrestle against my flesh, my pride. I will always be better than some people, and there will always be people better than me.

AS Jason Upton puts it "Worship is what you do before you come on stage, before you come to church."
I yearn to worship God while I train, while I race. I do that, not all the time, but I yearn to do that more and more each day.

Tonight, God is giving me a peace about my race. He is saying to me heart to continue to focus on Him. Even if I crash, even if I get a flat tire and I cannot repair it, He is there. Even if I get sick, or cramp up, get dead last, He is there. Even if I win my age group...He is there.
He is the reason for my racing. I am in this world to spread His love and Christ's message.
I know why I race, I race for Him. Yes I race because it is fun, and I am good at it, not great, but good.
But because I take the time to worship Him while I race, I get filled with His Love and Truth. I am spending more time praying now, and thanking God for giving me talent.
What I want most out of other people who see me race is this:
Oh yes, thats Nick Cook, he is filled with the Joy of the Lord, he loves Jesus.

What hurts the most, is seeing my friends who are better than me train so hard, and do so well, but they do it for themselves, not for God. It pains me because I see the potential in them to be great witnesses to the Faith, but they would rather ignore God, and make themselves idols.

That is why Christ compels me to race: to show others His Love, His truth, His passion. Not that I am a good athlete who can boast about my own talent. But someone who can Boast in Christ. The sheer life changing power of the Gospel and Jesus Christ by Grace through Faith.

Well it is 3:30 and we are leaving to go to Henderson around 4am. I hope God speaks to your hearts tonight through my three blogs as He as spoken to me.

Be Blessed.

JASON UPTON CONCERT pt 2

2008-05-31T20:02:00.000-07:00

Another Thing worth mentioning. This Church, Christ's Bride, is in the world.( our buildings) Our religiosity, our preferences are for us in the World. When we become one body in Christ, we are not of this world anymore. When we enter into the family of Christ, we are not of this world anymore. John 15:19
The real church is not a building, but a body of believers who are passionate about spreading God's word in order to bring about life change. We are passionate about seeing others become one in Christ, free from law of sin, and the wages of death.
I am convicted of my own sin because growing up in a religious institution who promotes their man made traditions over others, and sometimes over the Gospel, I find it hard in my heart to truly accept others (mostly other Christians) who come from a different background. I am hard on my self, and others who believe that their own church, their own personal preferences are more important than the precepts of Christ. (Pastor Perry Noble spoke about this in his Sermon on the Prodigal Son) I implore you to check out this sermon from the Series "Me or Jesus"

Jason Upton said this about the church (the buildings, the centers, the places where we come and gather) "A common place where the sins of the world are concentrated in one place... and we(the world) will see that in order to deal with it."

We allow the church to be a place in life where we can all focus on the Gospel, and let Jesus, not a man, or many men, defeat sin. Only by bringing the WORD in a relevant, and undefiled manner can real life change happen. The Church should be a place where we can focus on Christ, not a place where we point fingers out of hatred, not a place where we condemn people, no, a place where we can accept others for who they are, and love them like Christ, so that His Power will set them Free.

What does that mean for us as believers?
"A new level in Glory(Christ's Glory in this world) is always a step down before it is a step up." Jason Upton

That means that we who are believers must not become like the Older Brother in the Prodigal Son story, whose heart was more concerned about the work of Father(God), than the Heart of the Father(God).
Why am I so hard against Christians? Was it not Jesus who spent a fair amount of time correcting the religious leaders of the institutions, and was it not Christ who corrected His followers out of love so that His message would reach others? Yes.
If we are going to really live for Jesus, then we must humble ourselves before the Throne, "to get on the threshing floor" so that Christ can elevate us to a new level.

I WILL WRITE MORE ABOUT IDOLS, AND BEING IN THE ARMY OF THE LORD AND WHAT THAT MEANS LATER ON.
I HAVE TO BE UP AT 345am to drive to Henderson to compete in a Triathlon.

In the mean time, I hope this both encourages you and challenges you, but really I hope it challenges you as it has challenged me. It's not all about feeling good. It's about being one in Christ.

JASON UPTON CONCERT pt 1

2008-05-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

So last night, I drove from Charlotte to Winston-Salem to hear Jason Upton at First Assembly Of God in down town Winston-Salem with AJ, Jordyn, Justin, Tim, Rachel(Jordyn's mommy) and others from Victory Fellowship. It was amazing. Jason Upton's prophetic singing and his ability to truly bring the WORD is breath taking. It was down right encouraging and offensive, as I believe it should be.

I really saw the SPIRIT move last night. I really saw the power of God through Jason and the WORD challenge yet affirm people last night. I journaled a lot during the concert, and I took some very good notes.

Fire Burning In The Sky By Jason Upton really spoke to my heart, as well as others around me. God's message through Jason Upton was to "Lay it all down for the heart of Heaven," Which reminded me of Acts 20:24:
24However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

Jason Upton sang again and again "Whom the SON sets FREE is FREE INDEED," and that means that is offensive and encouraging at the same time. It is scary because that requires us to lay it all down, and to surrender all to Jesus. "To truly be free, means to be fully controlled by Jesus." ~Jason Upton. It is something that takes a lifetime and then some. When we accept Christ, we are free from Death, but in order to live freely, that means we have to focus on the Christ, and model ourselves after Him. That means we have to be in the Word daily, pray daily ( I mean intimate time with God, intimate prayers, life changing prayers) not just for ourselves, but for our World.

OKAY SO I WILL PICK UP IN THE NEXT POST, THIS ONE IS GETTING TOO LONG HAHA

Prince Caspian part 1

2008-05-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

If you have not seen Price Caspian, then you should go see it ASAP!!!

I'm gonna go to bed, but I just wanted to say, that it was Awesome!!!!
Some of the best parts of the movie was when Aslan was talking to Lucy.
I will write more about those quotes in the morning, and more scripture.

but for now

It was good to go to the movies by my self, with 7 other people in the theater. I just felt the prescence of God so strongly tonight. The peace of Christ that Transcends all understanding.... (Phil 4:7), really was upon me tonight. I kept coming the to brink of tears tonight because I was just so in Love with Jesus. I just felt so deeply and intimately connected with His heart tonight. It was just plain breathtaking.

God is just moving so much in my life, and in my heart, that it is hard to explain.
I just feel the breath of God. A sigh of contentment in singleness, and a sigh of being full, overflowing right now. God will call me to keep moving, keep changing, but right now, this very brief moment, I feel full, and I can just stop and rest, to bask in His Glory.

That's it.
Praise God!!!!

I'm driving a rental car...YAY!!

2008-05-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

So on Monday I was running at the Green Way near school, and I get this random call around 6pm.
Apparently some random couple found my wallet near their house, two miles away from the Greenway and couple of miles from my house. Well of course I was out of it, I had ran 6 miles, and had 2 more to go, so I was like, hmm maybe it fell out of my car when I was rearranging stuff, and I always do that when I take out my ID and Cards.

Well I run back, and see that my rear driver's side window is busted, and there is glass everywhere. I also find a note on my car from the driver next to mine who had her SUV broken into as well. Well Karen (thats her name) Praise God!! had already filled a report, and so I filled another one. Funny thing is (my wallet was wrapped up in my sweatshirt and it must have fallen out as the robbers were flailing stuff around in my car) Funnier thing still, Karen's Car had nothing in it, and mine didn't have anything in it as well. Funniest (not really) 5:30pm soccer fields were covered with people and no body called the cops. They did it right in front of people.

Good thing is that I have Nationwide Insurance :) (My Aunt Angel works for them) and I have great coverage. I have a rental car and its pretty sweet.

Point:
Satan is such a pest! I mean just a hindrance, really. I thought it was kind of funny (after I calmed down haha) that this was how he attacked me. This was all he could do. I mean lets face it, Christ has won, and Satan had been defeated, yet he still tries to get at us.
God has blessed me with a great rental car, and great coverage while my car is in the shop. I don't think that was in Satan's plan. I guess the joke is on him.

1 John 4:4

I start my first real day of work at my pool in the morning!! It should be fun!!!

Another night with little sleep...

2008-05-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 weeks, I have not been sleeping as well as I would like to. I find my self having to take naps during the day. I am so thankful for naps, and for rest.

Every night pretty much for the past month God has been waking me up at random times in the morning, and just laying people on my heart to pray for. Prayer is a powerful thing, and I believe it is the best tool besides the Bible that God has given us. The Word shows us and teaches us how to pray, and how we can use prayer to move mountains and change lives.

The awesome thing about waking up and praying, going back to sleep, waking up again a few hours later to pray again, is that I am seeing God show off His Amazing Powers of Healing, Restoration, Guidance, Peace, Wooing, and Joy.
I have seen first hand the fruit of praying in the Spirit, and intercessory prayer can have in people's lives.
There is just something awesome about talking with Daddy at like 2-5am in the morning. It is very intense, and it fills me up.
What if more people spent intimate time in prayer? What would happen? I'll tell you...
People's lives would radically change, some the next day, some later on, but God moves heaven and earth for people. He is God, Perfect, Loving, Awesome!!!
I just have a heart for prayer now more than ever. I really love it when God wakes me up, and He speaks to my heart. I am growing more than ever, and God is wooing me.

Side note: I am just so content right now being single and letting God woo me. He is drawing me nearer to Him each day, and I love it. I am spending more time in prayer, specifically in the Spirit, praying for my future wife. I am just thanking God so much for revealing some of the important qualities that my wife will have that just speak to my heart. I am content right now in just surrendering my heart to Christ each day, and letting Him fill me up.

I am also just spending more time thanking God. I am not perfect, I am selfish by nature, but God is just revealing so much to me right now, its is overwhelming :) Why not thank Him?

Training

2008-05-16T21:10:00.001-07:00

So tonight is short and sweet, just some thoughts.

It feels great to loose 5 pounds. My run, and bike have really been faster and more efficient.
This past week, esp today, I really felt great on the bike. It feels more natural, and I have more confidence in my ability as an athlete. I have always had confidence, but loosing weight and seeing the results is just awesome. I still have a love-hate relationship with training. It still sucks, but I love it.

I guess its like that with Christian growth and discipline. There are times where it just sucks. Emotionally its is overwhelming, and Satan really goes after me hard. The more I pursue God, the more attacked I get. That makes sense. Satan is not going to attack me as much when I am not in the word, or praying like I should. He just sits back and lets me become lukewarm.

But I see the results of praying, and spending intimate time with God. It is the very fuel for my body and soul. Yes there are sometimes when reading and praying are hard, when doing the right things are so much harder than doing the wrong things.
But I am in this race for the long haul, and I am building up my endurance more and more each day.

So to you who are struggling with endurance, Romans 5 talks about persevering and building character with the Hope we have in Christ.
Continue onward, boldly and unashamedly. Romans 1:16.
The payoff is worth the process.
I am just so in awe of what God is doing in my life and others around me.

And I just love being Baptized with the Holy Spirit and having my own personal prayer tongue with God.

Continue to pursue the peace that transcends all understanding. Philippians 4:7

God is wooing this city

2008-05-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

Hosea 2:14
14Therefore, behold, I will allure her [Israel] and bring her into the wilderness, and I will speak tenderly and to her heart.

I have noticed something these past several months as I meet fellow Christians, and visit my friend's churches. God is wooing this city. He is crying out, and speaking tenderly to this city. To draw the city of Charlotte back to Him. There has been an increase in God's anointing and His presence in this city. This city has so many people who are lost, broken, burned out, and just tired of life. Not to mention the rise in crime, and the rise in homelessness.

I believe with my whole heart that God is using Elevation and other churches to reach this city for His glory. I believe we are placed here in this city equipped with our unique strengths and resources to strategically intercede to God on behalf of this city.

The church is Christ's Bride, and the wedding gifts are the gifts that God gives each of us to use for His Glory. But the greatest gift we can bring to this ceremony is our Love. It is Christ's Love in us that changes lives. If we as Christians and the church can continue to seek Christ, and run after Him and His will, then I believe we will see even more radical life change.

Also I have some friends who are dealing with life change, and it is just amazing to see God lead them in His direction.
I also pray for my friend Bradelyn who is growing a lot in her walk with Christ. She is an amazing person, and an awesome friend.
I know God will raise her up even more, and I am just so anxious to hear the news she gets today!!!

I pray that each of us may receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, and that we can pray in the Spirit to unlock God's Awesome Power of healing, restoration, encouragement, protection, and abundance (just to name a few).

SCHOOL IS OUT!!!!

2008-05-10T16:50:00.001-07:00

So School if finally out and over for!! YAY!!!
I am so excited! I can enjoy my new job as a pool manager, and I get to finally dive hardcore into my summer workout program that my dad set up for me. I have been really into the program for about two weeks now, and I have lost like 4 pounds!! I am so excited haha. I can finally get down to racing weight, and really kick some butt later on this season.

God has really taught me a lot of things this school year. He has really helped me to become motivated to do really well in school. My prayer time and devotion life has really gotten a lot better this year, and I am seeing God bring forth fruit in my life because I am taking the time to spend time with Him each day.
I love the summer because I can spend a lot of time with God, and not have to worry about studying or fitting some sort of rigid time table.

what an amazing past couple of days it has been. I have really been praying a lot in the Spirit and God has really laid down the Spirit on me in the middle of the night.
At first it is scary because I cannot move, and I do not know what is going on but then as I respond, it is just so amazing. PRAISE GOD!!

also today was a really good day of working out.

90minute hard trainer ride, followed by an awesome 4 mile run. Praise God!!!

"Let my Faith Arise"

2008-05-02T18:19:00.000-07:00

God has just been doing so much in my life. With school, and work, and working out. My close friends around me are all in different stages of their lives, but they are all growing. Whether they would agree with me or not, from the outside looking in, they are all growing.

I just have one video and it is from Jason Upton. I believe with all my heart, that his prophetic word will speak to your innermost spirit.

Get fired up, get encouraged, get challenged, most of all, GET FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND GET THOSE GOOSEBUMPS!!!!

The Lyrics are on the video.

Jason Upton-Faith-Video

WHAT IS GOD SAYING TO YOU RIGHT NOW AS YOU WATCH THIS VIDEO?

"SOMETIMES NO COMPROMISE MEANS NO COMPENSATION"--JASON UPTON

Marriage???

2008-05-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

So I am going out of town this weekend to my friend Aaron's wedding in Durham.
I am have the honor of being the Emcee. I get to announce when the dances are, the cutting of the cake, ya know the stuff. It is gonna be awesome.
Plus in the morning, Aaron's friend's dad is gonna open up the UNC pool in Chapel Hill, and we get to play extreme water polo with inner tubes!!! We may even go for a run. YAY!!
I am also going home to spend some time while mom is on a youth choir retreat. That will be AWESOME TIME!!

More to the point... Here is a list of qualities I look for in a wife, fyi for all those readers out there haha. I think I will put some of the top ones.

Sold out for Jesus- A Proverbs 31 Woman.
Beautiful ( I know sounds shallow, but come on now, lets all be honest here) Of course she will be the most beautiful person to me, duh she'll be my wife. Hot Hot Hot!!
Pastor's wife. Since I am called in the ministry, I think it will be important that my wife will be okay with being a Pastor's wife.
Someone who is compassionate about others and seeing life change that can only come from Jesus and His love, grace and mercy.
Good communicator: someone who is not afraid to tell me what is on her heart, and correct me when I am wrong. I want to have a healthy marriage, and everyone who is married says that communication is the key, especially in the hard times. (boldness)
Someone who can lend me a wise word. I believe that every believer has wisdom that comes from Christ, but I want my wife to be a Proverbs 31:26 woman.
Sense of humor. I am a crazy guy, well spaz is more like it. Someone who can be sarcastic at times- dish it out and take it.... thats just me haha.
A gracious wife. Someone who is full of God's grace, cuz Lord knows I am gonna need a lot of grace as a husband haha.
I believe that my wife will be a good encourager. As a man, I need constant encouragement to continue in God's Will. When I do fail, I believe my wife will encourage me to seek Christ, and take the steps to correct my wrongdoing.
Someone who takes a more logical view of life. I am very emotional, and in some cases, I do not look at things from the logical point of view. (ask my dad, he is helping me in that) Not saying she cannot be emotional(thats great!!), but someone who can compliment me.
Someone who is Baptized with the Holy Spirit. A wife who can intercede on mine, my family's, and other's behalf. I want my wife to have that intimate prayer tongue with Jesus, and intimate prayer life that comes only from receiving the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Athletic. Yes, someone who takes care of her body is very important to me. Since I do triathlons, I want a wife who likes to keep in shape. I am not saying that she has to be like an iron woman, or a professional athlete. Just a wife who does not mind working out.

These are some of the most important qualities that I believe God has placed on my heart when looking for a wife.

I know people have asked me this question multiple times, and I have decided to write them down.

Spur one another on to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24)

I want to be that Ephesians 5:25-33 husband.

Hope you enjoyed what is on my heart!!

No time to blog this week, and possibly this weekend.

2008-04-23T21:26:00.001-07:00

1)Reading Comprehension questions all due on Monday for two classes
2) 5-8 page paper on something that has to do with an issue in the Early Church due by Monday
3) 2-3 page paper on "memisis" which is Girard's theory explaining violence and apply it to the Zionist/Arabs struggle in Israel. Due on Thursday 5pm
4) 5 point extra credit paper due on Tuesday.
5) 3 Exams next week

blah blah blah blah lol

and I have to pray, eat, sleep( well nap) and workout.

Good luck everyone who has finals...

BUT CHURCH ON SUNDAY WITH JESSIE BROGDEN, HER MOM!!!
THEN 1PM SERVICE WITH KAT, MINDY, ABBY, CHAR, AND WHO EVER ELSE!!!

PRAISE GOD!!!!

Re-Cap

2008-04-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

So i have been super busy lately, trying to finish up all my school work before turning it in before the end of the semester. blah blah

I just figured id write some highlights

This past Wednesday I saw Dave Barnes, and Andy Davis live in concert. I got hang out with the band and meet Dave and Andy...

It was soo amazing. I will try to write more on that later.

I am still listening to sermons about Sexual Lust so that I can write some stuff up for u guys.

God is revealing His will for me each day.
I have been overcoming some struggles in my life, and I just thank Jesus for the Grace that enables me to do so. I need to use my gifts more outside my comfort zone. In other words, it is time to take it a step further for Christ
I had my first race of this past season, and I did pretty well. I missed my start, started more than 20 minutes behind my age group. I caught 6 of them, and ended up being 4th.
I finished I believe 41 out of 132 people with the 8th fastest swim over all.
My dad came in 19th over all and he won his age group.

The point is that God made all this possible. In fact the whole race, I was just spending time with God, and singing "Carry Me Through" by Dave Barnes.

God is the one who given me the ability to be athletic, and also the heart to pursue Him while I work out.

I am still struggling with trying to be physically fit, while being more spiritually fit. I believe you have to have the two. I am trying to make more time for God-more passionate intimate time with God, apart from working out( God and I usually have heart to heart when I am working out). I believe every Christian struggles with this. We can never spend enough time with God.

I got to spend some quality time with my grandparents (dad's side) and really fellowship with them.
My dad wrote me the best letter I have ever gotten in my life. His small group is doing this whole letter writing thing to encourage people in Christ.
I just love my dad, and he is a great role model. He is my #1. I love him very much. Just spending time with him was the real highlight of my weekend.
I visited a church today and the speaker flew all the way in from INDIA just to preach one service. WOW.
I got to speak with a good friend about Praying and Speaking in Tongues tonight, that was an awesome conversation!!

I have a crazy week of training and school ahead of me. I just pray that I get all my work done and this paper....

SUNDAY!!

2008-04-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

I love my roommates!! Hands Down!!! (Mat aka single T and Derek aka Derelick)
I was supposed to go to a cookout today, but because of the storm, and the fact that the cookout was 31 miles away, I decided to hang out with the roomies. It was awesome! Despite the fact that I ate a whole pizza, blah, it was so great. We watched STAR WARS!!! Derek, one of my roomies rented a projector from the library for this past weekend, and we watched it on the wall. We have like an 18foot ceiling so it was just jim dandy!

Church was awesome as always, great to see old friends, and E-kidz was amazing!!!!

I am currently reading "Doing Things Right: In Matter of The Heart," by John Ensor.
It is a great read. I also picked up some cd sermons on "Combating Sexual lust" by Joshua Harris!!!!

I am still trying to get some great stuff for the Porn series, so bear with me.

I would recommend "Not Even a Hint" by Joshua Harris
oh yeah!!!!

PORN, PORN And More Porn (part 1) Introduction

2008-04-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

This Past Sunday Michael Leahy, whom I believe to be the most vocal person in our society against PORN came and gave a talk about it at ELEVATION. It was intense, and it gave first account of what PORN can do in a person's life.
Also at CharloteONE this past Tuesday night, Shannon Ethridge came and spoke out the issues of Sexual and Emotional Lust. It was Awesome!!

In this new series PORN, PORN and More PORN (catchy title) I will be discussing why it is important to fight against Sexual Sin, and how we do so using scripture, accountability and common sense. I will also provide resources that I have used, and those that have made an awesome impact in the lives of people I know.

I will however try to address believers and non believers in this series because in this day in age, its not just a matter of whether you are a Christian or Not. Porn is a destructive tool, and it affects the Christian and the non-Christian in the same ways. It's a tool of Satan to trap anyone and everyone who comes into contact with it.

Here is some background statistics that are reliable that may get you interested in this series I am about to do.

This is from Michael Leahy
Pornography. It's a $57 billion a year global industry and America is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of porn in the world. Porn industry revenue in the U.S. alone is bigger than all the professional football, baseball and basketball franchises combined! But it's not just an adult entertainment thing anymore. With the average teen exposed to over 14,000 sexual images and messages a year in our mainstream media, has anyone stopped to think about how our increased exposure to porn is affecting the way we think about ourselves and relate to others?

Here are some other stats for ya

89% of porn is created in the U.S.
$2.84 billion in revenue was generated from U.S. porn sites in 2006
$89/second is spent on porn
72% of porn viewers are men
28% of porn viewers are women
260 new porn sites go online daily
average age of first internet exposure to porn is 11 years old.

Sources are from MSNBC.com, TopTenReviews.com, and Alexa.com

(I am doing this series simply because The Lord Jesus Christ put this on my heart in order that He may be glorified) I do not have all the answers, but I believe with my whole heart that the resources that I will provide will help those who struggle with this.
Also I want to point out that I am not perfect, and I struggle at times just like everybody else.
I am simply sharing what I have learned in order to better equip all of you in battling with this issue.

Keep an eye out!!

2008-04-06T21:17:00.001-07:00

Okay so I have lots to blog about, I have lots on my heart and mind that I need to let God help me sort out. I mean things are Great!!! I have so much to say, but I want to make sure that I leave my self enough reflection/LISTENING time with God in order to better blog.

I will say that I love late night Heart to Heart's with my Friends. Esp A.J. YAY! and my friends from ELEVATION!!!!

I am currently as a matter of Fact listening to the ENTOURAGE Series from 2007 for like the 10th time lol.

ELEVATION CHURCH
(look under MEDIA-SERMONS-2007-ENTOURAGE)
Hang in there men, I promise to write a blog about Biblical Masculinity along with some helpful resources, but in the mean time, enjoy my ramblings.

Also I love this process of forming closer friendships with people that I do not get to spend a lot of time with. I know that God is doing something big in our lives as we fellowship and talk about all the wonderful things CHRIST is DOING in our LIVES!!!

I am a night owl... oh well lol

PEACE OUT!!!

Next Generation

2008-04-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

Okay so I Stole the Title from my friend Bradeyln haha. SHH don't tell her!!

But she pretty much summed up what we both talked about tonight. You should go read her Blog! HANDS DOWN!!

But I will follow up her blog with a blog to the men out there.

GO READ HER BLOG NOW!!

I will write one like tomrrow!!

Christian Rap is my FAV!!

2008-04-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

wuz bumpin crew?

Man Wednesday night was off da charts!!
LeCrae concert was AWESOME!!
I went with Mission 28 College Ministry to Wingate and we got to see an up close and personal free LeCrae Concert.

The ride there and back was simply wonderful. I got to spend time with some of the ladies in M28 who are just so on fire fire for Christ. I will write another blog about that. But its worth mentioning that Katherine Dixon and I really got to be unashamed about the Gospel and share truth with each other. It really did my heart good!!

I am telling you, I believe that Christian Rap drops more scripture than any other genre.
Its more than just rap. Christian rap is a tool that these artists use to reach people. It is more than just music. You actually hear the Message preached. Christian rap artists like LeCrae who is a member of the 116 Clique make it their soul purpose to Reach People for Christ.
Trip Lee, Da Truth, Flame, and others are artists who heavily inspire me to reach the lost with music.

On top of that, I have personally experienced Gospel teaching through Christan Rap, and I have used it as a tool to help witness to others.

This is what 116 Clique stands for
Romans 1:16:
16I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

LeCrae put this scripture on my shirt, and its one of Pastor Furtick's favs.
When Pastor came to CRUSADE he preached on this passage and it was Hands Down AWESOME!! In Fact, that scripture woke me up and I started going to Elevation after that :)

Acts 20:24
24However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

Hands down Christian is my fav!!!!

Go Check it out!!
"F A N A T I C" is a great song
"Jesus Muzik" ft Trip Lee is also one of my fav's!!

BE BLESSED FANATIC!!!

Hands Down Great Day!!! part 3...LIGHTBOOTH @ Providence Campus

2008-03-30T14:12:00.001-07:00

Okay so after working at the Butler Campus with E-Kidz, I happen to wander over to the Providence Campus to watch Pastor Furtick preach the 1pm service live.

And so I got this amazing seat 4 rows from the front, center stage, and I turn around and whom do I see. Well Betsy and Sarah!! YAY!!!!

so those crazies are in the light booth waiving to me haha.
So I got to worship and watch Pastor preach from the light booth. WOW!! And my main man Marcus and main lady Betsy really do an awesome job!! Praise God!! It was so awesome to jump up and down, raise my hands, clap and scream. Marcus and Betsy's gift for lighting and their passion to serve Christ really just blows my mind. The intense timing it takes to do the lighting and the vast knowledge of the lighting world is just crazy. Praise God for Marcus and Betsy. Praise God for Shane @ the Butler Campus, and for others who do lighting for Elevation!!!!!!!

It was more amazing to see people passionately worship before the Lord. To see them dance mightily before the Lord was such a joy and a blessing!!!
Plus they really got into the message as Pastor was speaking life and truth into them.

What an amazing day!!!!!

Praise God!!!!!!!!

I am listening to Nothing In Between By Jessica Campbell RIGHT NOW!!!

Hands Down Great Day!!! Part 2...JESSICA CAMPBELL

2008-03-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

JESSICA CAMPBELL

Okay, so I am at Elevation today
tap on the shoulder turn around and surprise it's Jessica Campbell!!!! NO WAY!!! YYYAAAAAYYYY!! AND I got to meet the BAND! YAAAAAAAYYYYY!!!!!
UNEXPECTED BLESSING FROM JESUS!!!!! HOOAH!!!
okay so I have to tell you about her. She is wow, seriously one of the most talented vocalists out there, and further more she is really humble.
I have to be up front and say she is just Heavenly. She is really down to earth, and oh wow what a warm person she is.
Do you know what I like about her-passionate about God's love being spread through worship. She is one of those people who when you first look at her, you know she is just soo in love with Jesus, and His love is shining through her. Her spirit, bright eyes, warm smile, and powerful voice will just melt your heart.
I have to say that I get the Holy Spirit Bumps haha every time I see her lead worship. God's presence just radiates through the room, and it is such a joy to watch others worship Christ when she sings.
It was such a joy to see her today!! Hands Down!!!
I am listening to her songs right now!!!!!!

You have got to check her music out!!
Jessica Campbell

Oh and Jessica, if you are reading this... Thank you for your passion to spread Christ's love through your music! Thank you for your love, and your willingness to serve Christ and others by providing an awesome atmosphere in which we can passionately worship Jesus. I love your music, and I love your acoustic version of "O Come O Come Emmanuel." God Bless you, and I will continue to share what God is doing in and through you with others!!!! HOOAH!!!!

Read Part 3!!

Hands Down Great Day!!! Part 1

2008-03-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

Okay so let me just tell you why today has been one of the greatest days I have had in forever. I usually have great day, but today, man, God was just speaking to my heart, and showing me His Glory through different experiences.

I got to see the Move of God today, in a very unique and special way.

Plus I got a very special surprise from a guest at Elevation Today.... READ Part 2!!!

E-KIDZ WAS AWESOME!!

The sound, video, and production today was perfect.
Kids really got into the worship songs today, and were dancing mightily before the Lord.
The kids got involved today while the skit was being presented and they were focused.
They were loud and proud when we asked them to repeat the main point with motions, and the Bible Verse of the Week.
All the Actors, me included, rehearsed, rehearsed, rehearsed haha.

GREETING!!!

I had the awesomest Air Guitar today!!
I got to dance around outside in the rain and cold with an umbrella as a guitar when my air guitar ran out of gas haha.
People were actually excited to be at church, which is why I love Elevation.
I learned how to kick my feet like they did in the 80's dance clubs lol from Lance!!!
I got to hang out with my buddy Sarah Fields.
I got to share my Jesus Joy with others today!!!

GO READ Part 2!!!!!

2008-03-27T19:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this week has def been a learning week for me.

Certain events happened this week, that did not go as planned.
Sometimes when I think life will fit into a box, that in that box things are simple.... well lets just say that sometimes that box blows up in your face. And sometimes other people like this week for instance, will be affected as well.

My intentions were good, but things did not go as planned. Instead, things got out of hand.

I did have some heart to heart talks, and I know God will do something good, He always will deliver His children from despair. The key is to keep praying and wait on Him.

I am looking at the E-kidz ( Elevation Sunday Program) script and wow, God is already speaking more truth to me.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Never stop praying.” (NLT)

To Play On God’s Team, I Must Never Give Up Praying!

Also I believe this is the new quote of like the year

"Sometimes being a good leader means being a good listener and not just a person of action."

My mom said that to me after things got out of hand.

I was reading Bradelyn Levi's blog and this scripture really just speaks to my heart. And this scripture really gives me a peace, despite all the mistakes that I made this week.

Hebrews 10:23
23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

Hey but you know what... I am small, but GOD IS HUGE!!

So therefore I have to Say PSALM 145

Psalm 145
by Shane and Shane

Yeah

2008-03-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

All I Need Is You

By Hillsong

9 more hours after this semester then I graduate. Praise God

I do not know if I will try to get into South Eastern Seminary in the spring, or take that and the summer off and work, and train, then start in the fall.

Don't know yet about whether I will go to Basic and do the Split Ops program (one summer just regular basic, then school in the fall and spring, then Chaplin assistant training next summer) and go from there. I will have to get a certain amount of semester hours before I get into the Chaplain Candidacy program.

Or will I just wait until I get those hours then go straight into the Chaplin Candidacy program.

I am looking forward to the summer because I get to work at a small nice neighborhood pool, and there is not swim team. I get to either work in the mornings, or at night. I believe I will work in the afternoon/evening, if my buddy Chad gets the job in the morning.

I get to really train this summer, to get in the best shape of my life hopefully, and also I will be able to build on my Spiritual Fitness. Plus, I get to spend time with my friends at Elevation, and to really build life long friendships.

I have had a crazy week, with ups and downs, in short, to sum it up

All I need Is You

by Hillsong

The Best Easter so far!!!

2008-03-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today, was an amazing day today for me, and for the Kingdom, hands down!!

I now realize why God had me stay in charlotte for Easter, and not go home.
Through a lot of prayer, crying, and just asking God to show me what I can do for His kingdom, I brought 5 people to church today.
Now I am boasting in Christ, and not me, its what Christ did through me, not what I did.
My dad, my Aunt, my friend Melissa, her roommate Jessie, ,and Melissa's cousin Drew came to church with me today.
The worship was awesome! It was a packed service today at the 1pm serivce! Crazy Awesome!

Pastor gave like the best sermon ever!! I mean you just have to watch it when it comes out this week.
(HERE IT IS) My Lord and My God

Let me just say that Melissa, Jessie, Drew, and my Aunt Gayle accepted Christ for the first time ever today. They not only did that, but they actually took the time to fill out the cards, and walk up personally to the new believers table, talked with a person, and received a Bible, Cd, and scripture reference.
I mean like, I am just blown away. Gang, listen, just by asking someone to Church, boldily, and then just loving on them, and helping them get there, is like the greatest thing we could ever do.

I knew in my heart, that by just getting them into the door, just by getting them to Church,then sooner or later they will accept Christ. Over 500 people at Elevation alone gave their lives to Christ today. Imagine how many people did that today, world wide. WOW!!!

It is something that is very personal. I mean the courage that these people took to come to a church that they had never been to before. To be brave enough to go, and to accept Christ, then to publicly go and grab the resources that they need. I mean that takes guts.

And do you know what happened today. As I was going to meet them after I had gone to the restroom, I got frustrated becasue there were a lot of people who were just standing around in the atreum, and not moving. I mean that really got me frustrated, and I was like MOVE haha.
Then God spoke to my heart, and said LOOK AROUND. and I did. And guess WHAT...
THOSE PEOPLE STANDING AROUND, NOT MOVING, WERE THE PEOPLE STANDING IN LINE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES TO CHRIST, AND WHO WERE WAITING TO TALK WITH SOMEONE!!!!!
WOW. THAT IS WHAT CHURCH SHOULD BE LIKE. PEOPLE LINED UP TO GET RESOURCES WHO HAD ACCEPTED CHRIST.

Man was I joyfull!!!
I am thankful for a God who is mighty to save!! I am thankful for a Church that preaches the Word of God, in a passionate way that breaks down the Gospel in a relevant way. I am thankful for friends who have prayed for the very people who gave their lives to Christ today.
And I am thankful that God used me as a tool to advance His Kingdom.

Now these people have hope. Now these people have been transformed, and they will forever know Christ's love, and have an intimate relationship with Him.

Who knows what these people will do for Christ in the future. God created each of us in a unique way with a unique purpose, that only we can do. How awesome is that!!!

I am glad that I got to spend some quality time with my dad as well. Me and are so very close, and I know that he is not far from the Kingdom as well. My dad is really an awesome man. I have learned much from him, and I am still learning. It was great to just spend time with him. My heart really needed it. We did cool stuff, went to I HOP for dinner, watched I am legend, and got up this morning and watched INVINCIBLE.
I cannot wait to see my mom when I go back home and spend some quality time with her as well.

Praise God!!

Do not settle for anything less, than God's Best!!

2008-03-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

This is a Sermon from Perry Noble from NewSpring Church from the series STUCK

If you want to watch all the awesome worship, then AWESOME!! PLEASE DO!!
if not, then skip ahead to his preaching!!

WHY AM I HERE

Right now... College Sucks!!!

2008-03-19T21:10:00.001-07:00

ahhhh so like many of my fellow peers who are in the ministry, well ministry of some sort, we have this hard time studying. We would rather be spending raw, intimate time with God. Like in the Word, praying, worshiping, and just being quite, listening to God speak to our hearts.

I have been studying with a friend of mine, Sarah Womack latley, and we have both agreed on this struggle. OH and def my buddy A.J. Salls!!There is a part of us that wants to be done with college becuase we are anxious about doing the very thing God has destined us to do after college.
This process as Pastor Furtick puts it, is hard. There are some days haha, like today, that I have to write a paper, and I have to put time and effort into it. Yes God gets the Glory, and Yes, God wants me to do super duper in school, BUT COME ON, I JUST WANT TO WORSHIP AND PRAY!! I know someone out there whether in school or not who def agrees with me. I mean THIS IS WHAT WE WERE CREATED TO DO...WORSHIP GOD!

uggh this freakin sucks, and yes I said freakin... and sucks

But you know what, I thank God for this problem. I mean God is Good. If you don't believe it, then check this out.
I was adopted by two wonderful people who are and always will be mom and dad. And did you know what I did for number of years, I rebelled. Yes all kids do it, but I mean there was misplaced anger, and I really didn't know who I was. You know, God has delivered me from that. I mean I know who I am, and I should have know who I was. I am A child of God, who is loved by Him and Two wonderful Parents. Hands down gang, that is who I am. I am loved.

God Called me into the ministry at age 18 in 2004, and I fought with and ran away from God (Dark Night Of The Soul for you scholars out there haha) up till a year and a half ago. It was not until I finally got it in my thick skull that God's way is the Best way, the Only Way that I saw life change, and that I needed to get sold for Jesus. (sorry for the umm like not correct grammar-Im hyped up on coffee) And, if I was going to live to the potential that Christ sees in me, that I need to get my butt in gear and start being a Man for Jesus.

I am glad that I do not have to deal my old self problems like getting drunk, having sex, smoking pot, and living a double life by being crazy at school, and all Churchified on Sunday.
Cliff Barrows this past Sunday put it something like this..."When we make a commitment to Christ, we make it on our terms, but its only when we Surrender to Christ that it will it be on His terms." AND THAT IS THE POINT.

oh so yeah lol sorry for ranting, it felt good.

So i am glad that this is my problem now. I am so thankful for Grace. I mean I know that I am sold out for Christ, and this problem is proof that I am. The struggle is, and I am joyful and frustrated at the same time haha, is that I just want to spend time with God, and know Him better. But people say, oh well you are in college, you have lots of time to do that. YES I DO, BUT THAT IS NOT ENOUGH. WE WILL NEVER HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO FULLY KNOW GOD. BUT OH MAN IT SURE IS FUN TO TRY TO GET TO KNOW GOD FULLY.
And I do, each day, more and more.

It's just frustrating when God is pouring so much into my life via His Word, Pastor Furtick, Pastor Perry Noble, Pastor Clayton King, MUSIC, PRAYER, and MY Entourage, and I have to focus on school at the same time.

But hey, thats life, and I do enjoy it. This process is teaching me to be able to organize my time better. If I get smart about my studying, and writing papers, then that will allow me more time to spend with God. OHHHHHH haha I KNOW MY MOM WILL LIKE THAT ONE :)

oh, well this is a long post, and its not like the last one which was really to the point.

Oh yeah, I LOVE COLLEGE HAHA!!!!

Notes from UNLEASH 08 @ NewSpring Church pt 1

2008-03-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

So this past Thursday was an awesome experience as I believe over 130 fellow Elevators and my self were packed into three charter buses and rolled down to NewSpring Church in Anderson SC for the UNLEASH 08 Conference. Pastor Perry Noble is the senior Pastor of New Spring and it is an amazing Church. God is really doing great things in and through NewSpring.

Here are some of the notes from the first Session that really spoke to my heart.

The Scripture lesson was taken from Luke 15 the Story of the Prodigal Son. But the angle that Pastor Perry Noble is coming from is the one of the older brother.

1) What is it that God wants to do in my Church?

He wants to Glorify Himself and spread the good news of the Gospel.
He wants to use Elevation Church to raise up an army of Believers who are unashamed of the Gospel, and who are passionate about seeing people come to Christ.
"So that People Far From God will have LIFE in CHRIST," as our mission statement states.

A) But the Older son was more worried about the work in the fields, and not the heart of the Father. If he did know the heart of the father then he would have been joyful in the return of his brother. Or he would have helped in finding his lost brother. But he became angry instead. (vs 25-30)
i) Sometimes the church gets more worried about the "work," and not the heart of God. We get to busy doing stuff to re-focus on the Heart of Christ, and why we are doing the work. Then we become frustrated because our labor is in vain.

ii) We are doing the work for God, not for ourselves. The reason that we exist is to glorify Christ, and not ourselves. Or else we fail, and we fail hard.

B) So what will it take in order to passionately follow the heart of the Father?

a) TIME-passionate intimate interrupted time with the Father. That means that we have to read our Bibles for direction. Most Bible's these days have commentary that help us to process all of the information so that we can understand what the Bible says.

i) We need to ask God, and search for that "White Hot Vision" as Pastor Noble says. That also means that we need to spend intimate time praying to God and laying all our burdens at the foot of the cross.
ii) "Revelation not inspiration." When we get an idea from another church or from someone, pray about it before you decide to do it. If it is not from God, then it will not work. Only when God gives us revelation about an idea, and how to use it for His Glory, then will it work.

Remember that by spending TIME with God we will be able to "Do what God wants us to do, and be who God wants us to be."

I will write more hopefully tomrrow.
Please Check out Pastor Perry's Church and his blog along with Elevation Church and Pastor Steven Furtick's Blog.

Thank You

look for new changes

2008-03-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

so im gonna make some changes, but I have to figure out how to put some diff stuff on here haha

try to expand my scope and reach, and understanding.

but in the mean time i just wanted to post something lol

UNLEASH 08 @ New Spring was great!!

i'll put more later!!

Time to switch up da beats

2008-03-09T16:34:00.000-07:00

WROTE THIS LAST NIGHT FYI LOL

I have come to the conclusion that if you can't beat 'em then join 'em
Tonight, randomly, well haha not to God, He has brought me back to the good ol days.

So As I study for E-Kidz and reflect on the trials I am facing, here is the Message that God is Sending me through these songs.

[Part1:] Lately I've been going through some things that really got me down.
I need someone somebody to help me come and turn my life around.
I can't explain, I can't obtain it. Jesus your love is so, it's so amazing.
It gets me high up to the sky, and when I think about your goodness it makes me wanna stomp.
Makes me clap my hands. Makes me wanna dance and stomp.
My brother can't you see I got the victory. STOMP!!!

[Kirk:] GP are you wit me?
[GP:] oh yeah we having church we ain't going nowhere.
[repeat 3 times ]

[pt2:] stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp

I promise the stomp, the whole stomp, nothin but the stomp

[Kirk:] It ain't over. It ain't over
-Kirk Franklin-STOMP!

"I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm Free
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me"
-His Eye Is On The Sparrow

(Check the rhyme)
Joyful, Joyful
Lord we adore Thee
An' in my life
I put none before Thee
Cuz since I was a youngster
I came to know
That you was the only way to go

So I had to grow an' come to an understandin'
That I'm down with the King so now I'm demandin'
That you tell me who you down with, see
Cuz all I know is that I'm down with G-O-D
You down with G-O-D?
(Yeah, you know me)
You down with G-O-D?
(Yeah, you know me)
You down with G-O-D?
(Yeah, you know me)
Who's down with G-O-D?
(Everybody)
-Joyful Joyful from Sister Act II

I CAN'T HELP BUT PRAISE HIM, RAISE HIM!!! MMHMM YES LORD, YOU ARE AWESOME!!! FILL US WITH THE LIGHT OF DAY LORD. THANK YOU FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL LET DOWN. AMEN

Davidson Worship

2008-03-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

OKay! sO I LOVE ME SOME DAVIDSON WORSHIP!!!!

This past Thursday was one of the best worship experiences I have had at Davidson, which is awesome because I usually have a hands down awesome time!

My friend Jenna and I sat up in the balcony and it was just the two of us.
It was amazing. Oh man. I just got to sing, and dance, and walk around praising the Lord. It was amazing to look down and see everyone worshiping God in their own unique way. From dancing around to just laying down and pouring out their hearts to God.

I love Davidson Worship because I can always meet new and exciting people who are running hard after Christ.
Its great to just lay things down at the foot of the cross, and not care about what other people think. Everyone is just so friendly and they respect the way in which you worship.

Oh man I felt so alive. The Holy Spirit was poured out heavily upon me as I worshiped. I gained new perspective. God is just so amazing.
Just to feel the Joy of the Lord at a more intense level is just so mind blowing. I really was exhausted after worship, which is soo awesome. I was able to dance mightily before the Lord, and to lay all my burdens at the foot of the Cross.

Hopefully I will be able to find links to the songs that we sang in order show you the Awesomeness in which God has blessed the artists songs that we sang.

God Bless!

I can feel it rising!! YAY!!!!

Raising up the Shield of Faith, and the Sword of The LORD.

2008-02-27T21:36:00.001-08:00

So its time yet again to re-sharpen my sword, and to raise up my shield of Faith and to fight off the slings and arrows of the Enemy. It is time for another battle, another fight against Satan and his army. It is time to go back out into battle and fight with my brothers and sisters in Christ.
God's children really need rally together and to fight. We need to do a better job of putting our differences aside in order to become one in Christ. How else are we going to fight for FREEDOM if we ourselves are bickering like dogs going after the scraps. God did not put us here to fight for scraps, but to fight for the Kingdom. Why is it that we reduce God's glory do merely scraps? Matthew 7:6
Why is it that we fight over issues that do not pertain to Salvation. Our goal, or purpose is to make disciples of every nation, and to Proclaim Christ, not self.

So let us put on the Full Armor of God

We better trash our idols if we want to be
In the army of the Lord
And the greatest idol is you and me,
We better get on the threshing floor
When will we learn that God's strategy
Is giving glory to the Lord?
We better trash our idols if we want to be
In the army of the Lord

Dying Star by Jason Upton

Here is the Skit

Building up Faith, again

2008-02-27T21:07:00.000-08:00

so this past week, I have been battling against the Enemy. I have not been sleeping well because I keep being attacked in my sleep. I have to admit it's pretty scary. At some points this past week, I have been afraid to sleep. And I have had many restless nights because of the fact that the Enemy has been trying to break me down.
But also this week I have been running to the Lord, desperately seeking His comfort and protection. And the great part about it all is that even though I have been afraid, and I have been attacked, God has protected me. He has poured out his Grace and Love on me so much this week, that my perspective has been changing.

I am not alone, I am in the Army of the Lord. God is my refuge, my strong tower, my fortress, my rock. Christ is my victor.

I am breaking off Rejection with a Spirit of Adoption as Jason Upton puts it.

The Lord has been teaching me more and more about this "process," and to ask WHAT, instead of worrying about WHY.
"What do you want me to do Lord? What can I do in order to live out your will?"
"How can I give you more access to my life?"

I think being afraid does something to a person. It puts life into perspective. Above all else, I feel the fear of the Lord. I have realized yet again, that compared to the Glory of God, I am nothing. Compared to the Awesomeness of God, I am but a finite being. I have a God who loves me, and who wants to use to me to Glorify Him. I have a purpose in this crazy life. I have a say in this world, but its God's say, not mine.

I think feeling the fear of the Lord is a great thing. It is overwhelming. Yes it is the scariest thing, ever. But more importantly the Peace, and the Joy of the Lord always follows. God knocks down my pride, and he humbles me on the threshing floor.
By him doing this, I rebuild my relationship with Him. What I mean is that I can re-focus on Him, and push out the things that do not matter.

I am stubborn and you can ask my close friends haha. By God doing this, I realize how much I am whoring my self out to this world. I am being a whore by filling my life with this stuff. And it's all stuff. If it's not God, then its stuff.

I am rebuilding the foundations, like Nehemiah did.

I know I am rambling, but its what I do best.

‘Cause You’re in my life, You’re in my life more than anyone can ever be
Father we’re building a relationship again, just me and You
We’re building a relationship again, just me and You
It’s not about the job I have
It’s not about the friends I have
Its’ not about the house I have or the social status I have
It’s about me and You
We’re building a relationship again, just me and You
You’re building my faith up again

Let faith arise, oh Lord!

As Jason Upton puts it in "FAITH"

Plan

2008-02-21T23:55:00.001-08:00

So tonight, yeah, I just had to sit down, and listen to what God had to say to my heart at Davidson Worship.

He is correcting my steps, He is giving me a new Perspective, and Ariel view, to quote Jason Upton.

I guess I am going to follow what A.J.

and Kelly Mac

and Bradelyn Levi

blogged about

And Read Nehemiah.

Amen, Amen

"Jesus Juice, twice as nice as Gatorade, and lasts a whole heck of a lot longer"

2008-02-18T16:18:00.001-08:00

(HANG WITH ME GANG, READ THE WHOLE NOTE BEFORE YOU GET MAD AT ME HAHA)

OKAY SO LETS START OFF MEAN, AND THEN GET NICE OKAY HAHA

It was like hmm two years ago when I met my buddy A.J. for the first time. we both worked at IMPACT Athletics, so we both knew who each othere were.
okay so we started hangin out cuz she was like the only person i didnt know right.
well come to find out we both loved Jesus right. but like we were both growin in our faith, so we were kinda like, hmm yeha I love Jesus, but no like joy right haha.

Fast Forward a couple of months haha
So i go back to the gym, and I am like WOAAHHHH because A.J. like attacks me with hugs and loud rantings!!!!

but then oh man here it comes:

"NIIICCCKKK!!! I FOUND A CHURCH, AND IT'S GREAT, OH MAN I LOVE JESUS SO MUCH YAAAAYYYYAASSSS!!!!" while she is jumpin around on the gymnstics floor.
Me, im like, oh my gosh, this girl drank the Kool-Aid, and she is emabaracing me. I mean who has the nerve to be that excited about Jesus. What kind of a cult is she in. I mean church is not the most exicting thing in the world. I mean yes, it should be, but like thats only on tv, or in the movies, or those really really far away churches that you hear about. or, its those like Holy Ghost cult churches that drink the kool-aid and dance around. right?

So like I mean I got use to it I suppose. but it still irked me cuz I was still not in that place with Jesus yet, and I oh so wanted it, but I didnt understand it.
I mean I love Jesus, but I didnt want to be labled as one of those Christians. ya know:
"Hey Good Morning Nick how are you doing?"
"Oh well bob, Jesus is just soo good, I mean it's so awesome having a relationship wtih Christ. I mean I don't always understand things, but you know what Bob, I just have this Joy, and I mean wow. Like yesterday for example, in church our preacher talked about sin, and it just convicted me that I need to change so many things. But It's okay cuz I got Jesus, yup, He's my homeboy. I know that if I keep focusing on Him then things will work out."

I mean BLAH BLAH BLAH RIGHT. I mean Come on People, it must be the Kool-Aid. I mean shut up. I just wanna punch the next Joyful, Jesus Kool-Aid drinkin Christian. YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN COME ON BE REAL WITH ME!!

haha
DUH!!
FLASH FORWARD A COUPLE OF YEARS....

I WAKE UP AND I AM LIKE, OH MY GOSH, I AM ONE OF THOSE CRAZY JESUS KOOL-AID DRINKIN CHRISTIANS!!!!!!!!
YEAH BABY!!

Joy of the Lord. Let me just tell you. There is no other feeling in this world that comes close to the Joy that we have in Christ. Yes, even in the tough times. Romans 5 READ IT!!!

I have been redeemed, I am His beloved, I have been born again. OH YEAH!!

So my point is that WE CANNOT HELP IT!! Don't be Hatin on us because you your self do not have it when you want it. All that it takes is faith. Yes, not more Faith, but the Faith that you already have. (unless you don't have Jesus as the center of your life. Then you have to)
Just Ask God to give you that Joy. It's an on going process. Life is hard, im not gonna lie, but Each Day we die to our selves and rise to Christ. That is the key.

AND YES, I DO DRINK THE KOOL-AID, AND I RAISE MY HANDS, STAMP MY FEET, YELL AND SCREAM

And part of it is because I go to a church that does the same thing!!
ELEVATION CHURCH!!!

There is nothing wrong for not doing those things, but if the Spirit moves, the Spirit moves right right!!

I mean thats how I worship. A friend said this to me last night.

"If I can yell and scream at a country concert, then I can do the same for Jesus right"

and that's all I wrote!

Oh yeah, A.J. I love you haha. Thanks for always being there for me, and helping me to become undignified for Jesus!!

God Bless!!

"It's goin in the book"

A.J.

why can't I escape You?

2008-02-12T20:01:00.001-08:00

why won't you let me get away from you?
Why do you always run after me?
What do you want from me?
I just don't understand why you love me so much.

I know that you have my best interest in mind, but its seems so hard to just trust you. Especially when everyone else is letting me down. And on top of that I keep letting them down, and you especially.

DUH!!! CUZ YOU FIRST LOVED ME, BEFORE YOU FORMED ME, YOU LOVED ME. YOU CAME TO DIE FOR ME, SO THAT I WILL HAVE LIFE IN YOU!!!!!

Do you ever feel this way? I am not feeling this way, but sometimes we all do. Sometimes we just can't help it...

I was reading my friends Kelly's
blog and wow, we really are emotionally tied to God. When we are in Christ, we hurt the way Christ hurts when he looks at this world. But we also feel Joy the way Christ feels Joy!! It's His Joy we feel in us. Life is a roller coaster ride, filled with ups and downs.

I do not really know the whole point I am trying to make, just that I have realized more than ever that I am emotionally tied to Christ.
I know that as Kelly said, that God gives us emotions, and sometimes they just overwhelm us. And at some point some times, they just come crashing down on use like a mighty rushing wave.

Its like the more I am tied with Christ, the more I cry, laugh, and dance. I am just compelled.
The trick like Kelly says is to make sure that we do not let our emotions take control of us.
The goal as Kelly says is to connect with God and let him use our emotions to better interact and connect with others, and especially with Him.

I guess just listening to this song, and how Great The Lord is, really made me more aware of how emotionally tied with God I am.

WoW

Check out this Shane and Shane song: Psalm 145

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPUcbyVeKVA

BibleGateway.Com
Psalm 145