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!!
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
NEW LEVEL!!!!
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!!!
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!!!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Why Am I So Passionate About Christ?
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!"
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!"
Thursday, January 22, 2009
The Call!!!
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.
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.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
A season of Preparation: 4 F's of Ministry.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sunday Night Reflections
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.
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.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Faith Palmer!!! MUST READ!!
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!!!
GO READ NOW!!!
AND THEN VOTE FOR HER HAHA!!
Gotta Have Faith-The Loveliest Village.
WATCH THE VIDEO AT THE BOTTOM!!!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Budget
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!!!
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!!!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
CATALYST-"Louder Than Words"
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.
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.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Visionary Love, Dream Sex
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
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
Saturday, September 13, 2008
1,000 Fliers
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!!!
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!!!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Last day of Daniel Fast
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!!
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!!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Daniel Fast Week 1
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
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
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
A still small whisper... my devo today
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 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.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
JASON UPTON CONCERT pt 1
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
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
Thursday, May 15, 2008
God is wooing this city
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).
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).
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
PORN, PORN And More Porn (part 1) Introduction
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
(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.
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.
(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.
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