truChristian: Surrender

Total commitment or a complete surrender is something a real Christian should know much about. This isn't something just for the minority working in ministry. It's not just for the pastors, evangelists, and missionaries. A completely surrendered life is something that every Christ-following Christian should undergo.

Let's look at what a completely surrendered life looks like and what we should do as every-day Christians to change that. One repeating theme of many Bible passages push the reader to become "living sacrifices." Leave what is evil, and overcome evil with good. One way we can do this is to renew our minds.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." -Romans 12:2a

Romans ch.12 is a passage that pushes the average believer to go beyond the norm. Satan is alive and well on this earth and it would be wise to not entertain the traditions of this world. Speaking of wisdom, there are two types of wisdom: earthly wisdom, and Godly wisdom. Which do you think this passage is pushing the reader to work for?

Part of renewing your mind goes beyond "overcoming evil with good" but we can transform our minds by being in God's word. It's important for believers to be in the word frequently. If we read, learn, and love God's word, we will be equipped to battle any evil that confronts us. My push for you this week is to transform your minds, and offer your bodies as living sacrifices to God. Be in God's word frequently. It is there that you will acquire the tools needed to overcome temptation.

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On a side note, I wanted to inform all of you that my blog will be undergoing some serious "transformation" in the coming weeks. If you have any comments, concerns, questions or just want to give input on future/past topics please feel free to leave a comment after each blog post, and I encourage you to follow me on twitter!

truChristian: Genuine Love

What does it truly mean to be Christian? In Romans chapter 12, there are a list of several characteristics that outline a life that is satisfying to God. Love win's the first spot on our list. Not just love in general, but genuine love.

"Let love be genuine." -Romans 12:9a

What does it mean to show genuine love? For love to be genuine, it has to be real. How often do you hear someone say something, then show something completely different? Genuine love means that your words match your actions. It's non-hypocritical love. It's real, and it's true!

"True" love is the first, and most important characteristic of living a life pleasing to God. Being a true Christian is about being true or real in love. This week, let your love be genuine. Let your actions match your words. Show real love and start living the life of a true Christian!

Blog Update

Is the normal Christian-like routine feeling like it has lost it's touch? Have you ever wondered if you are a true Christian? Are you longing to become a Christ-following Disciple? My new mini blog series entitled "truChristian" is going to be an answer to all your questions.

We will be going through Romans 12:9-21 and looking at taking a look at Christianity from the outside. Will you join me on this journey through scripture? The first blog post begins tomorrow, so keep an eye out.

Help spread the word, comment, and don't forget to subscribe via email. Hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving holiday!

Stop, Drop, and Follow!

Imagine this scene. You're living during the time of Jesus, and he approaches you to say "Come, follow me." We see 2 similar scenes in Matthew 4:18-22 as Jesus approaches Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, and James and his brother John. In the first instance, Jesus approaches Simon Peter and his brother Andrew while they were fishing. Jesus said, "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."

What I love most about both of these scenes is that they didn't hesitate. All 4 gave up what they were doing, and immediately followed him. James and his brother John were so immediate in their response that they left their father and boat without hesitation.


"At once they left their nets and followed him." -Matthew 4:20 NIV


I admire their willingness to, without doubt, immediately follow Him. This quick response gives us a great picture of their commitment and devotion they had for Jesus. Like these four, we too are called to follow Christ. We are told to follow the example of Christ. Many hear that calling but don't act. Do you have the devotion and commitment like Peter, Andrew, James and John? Put yourself in their shoes. Would you be willing to give up everything, right now to follow Jesus?

Fall on Your Knees

Thanks to Chris Tomlin and his latest Christmas album titled Glory in the Highest, I am officially in the "Christmas-spirit." Today I did a little reading on the life of Jesus including his crucifixion and most importantly his resurrection.

Jesus was born and He died. There's no question about it. The real miracle happened after His death. He lived. Jesus walked the earth for another 40 days and showed Himself to over 500 people including His disciples. Jesus not only proved to His disciples that His teachings were the real deal, when He appeared to them after the resurrection, but His physical presence taught them not to fear death. Through sin we have death, but through Christ we have life.

Through sin we have death, but through Christ we have life.

This is the story of stories. Christ arose. He died, and our sinful-selves died with Him. It proves to every believer that just like Romans 6:11b says, we are "dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus."

Isn't this something to be thankful for this holiday season? God's grace covers us so that we may have eternal life! There's one line in the lyrics to Chris Tomlin's song O Holy Night that capture perfectly my emotions after hearing such a powerful, and loving story:

"Fall on your knees..."

I realize that this is a song about Christ's birth, but these are such powerful lyrics that can be connected to His life, death and resurrection as well. Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He's the Bread of Life, and the Light of the World. Most importantly, He's alive.

Spoiler Alert: God Wins

While living life, it's far too easy to get caught up in the emotions. Life gets the best of us all. We screw up and sin. It's like a story gone wrong, and without Christ everyone's story would have a tragic ending. We're born sinners. It's just what we do. It's human nature. Everybody deserves condemnation. But there's good news to our story of life: God wins.

With God, we can accomplish anything. He tells us over and over that with faith the size of a mustard seed we can do amazing things. Our Creator is bigger than any problem we are faced with, but sometimes we have a hard time of grabbing hold of that faith.

Imagine for a second that you have the opportunity to sit down and have lunch with anyone in a position of power. Who would it be? Would it be President Obama? How about Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg? It's probably someone the general public admires like teen star Justin Bieber, or Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady? What if this someone in power wrote a book and gave it to you. Would you read, and love every word? Or would it be shoved in a dark corner only to be pulled out on special occasions?

Sounds like an awfully familiar picture. God has given us His word, in the Bible. Sure it's assembled by man, but it's God-breathed. For this next question, I want you to be completely honest with yourself: Where does God's word rank on your reading list? A safe conclusion for the general Christian is that it's not even in the top 10.

Where does God's word rank on your reading list?

The Bible is God's word. It's truth. In our journey through our individual stories called life we can choose to live it day by day, or live it smart. The Bible is filled with spoiler alerts to the life story. My hope is that we take those spoiler alerts, and we act. Read His word, learn what God has done, and wait for He has coming!

Give Your All for His Glory

One of the only TV shows that I actually make time to sit down and watch is the show called Gold Rush Alaska. In this show, the Hoffman crew work night and day, shedding blood, sweat, and tears just for the hopes of finding a small rock hidden under 30 feet of solid dirt. I look back on the countless episodes of last season in disbelief. With all the countless empty pans, and the financial troubles that arose from heading home empty handed the crew still managed to sign up for another go this season. The drive, determination, and commitment for that hope of success is what I admire in the crew.

In today's day and age, no matter what the cause it's practically impossible to find that type of commitment. Even in the Christian world, how often do we see fellow Christian's giving it their all? It's rare, and it's very rare. Jesus tells us in Matthew 13:44 that the kingdom of heaven is like treasures hidden in a field. Eventually a man finds this treasure, and goes and sells everything he has just to buy that one field.

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bough that field." -Matthew 13:44 NIV

Being a Christian isn't easy. We're faced with hardships and trouble, punishment and persecution. Too often I see many Christians giving only bits of sacrifice. Sometimes when life gets the best of us, we need to look at the dedication and commitment of the Hoffman crew. The kingdom of heaven is real, and the treasures are beyond all imagination. Are you giving everything to buy the field? It's time we give our all, every bit of who we are, for the glory of Christ!

Do you know God?

When you hear the word "God" what is the first thing that come to mind? What personal, and living qualities do you associate with Him? The topic of who God is came up in my discussions this week and I wanted to share a little bit more on the subject.

Many people today are worshipping a god. Mormons, Muslims, Jews, Christian's and many other practices of religious beliefs all worship a single "God". Some have even gone so far as to say this "God" is the same, and where people differ is in the specific beliefs. Someone this week told me that "God" is the same no-matter what religion.

If you believe that, you need to listen close! In order to understand who someone really is, you need to understand them and a major part of understanding is knowing their history. You can learn of God's history by reading the Bible.

Most Christian's would agree that being a Christian isn't necessarily a religion. It's a relationship. Not sure about you, but I'm not in a relationship with someone unless I know the person very well. Do you know God?

He's the one that, in 7 days, spoke this whole world into existence. He's the one that walked with Enoch. He's the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He lead Israel out of Egypt, by parting the Red Sea and stopping the flow of the Jordan river. Most importantly, He became a man so that we could have eternal life. He's all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-present. God is loving, righteous, and just. He is who He is.

I encourage you this week to learn more about who God really is by reading His word. Take some time today to read about God's work, so we can build a strong relationship with Him in the future!

"Be still, and know that I am God." -Psalms 46:10 NIV

It's Hell without Jesus

With all the little kids running around my neighborhood dressed up in anything from Zebra's and Justin Bieber's to Ghosts and Goblins, I decided it was fitting to keep with the Halloween theme.

First off, Jesus spoke more on hell, judgment and damnation than he did about Heaven. It's not a pretty sight. We are told over and over that it's comparable to a fiery furnace, or a lake of fire. There is weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mt. 13:50) If your not understanding the whole imagery, I'll break it down for you. It's hot, very hot. It's a torturous place filled with cries, moans, and groans that will make your ears want to bleed.

Personally, just the thought of hell sends shivers down my spine. Hell is a horrible sight that i'd never want to visit. Not even for a fraction of a second. It's the worst form of misery you could possibly imagine. It's also eternal. Once you are there, you're stay is forever. There is no early checkout, no visitations, no phone calls, and absolutely no "get out of jail free" cards.

Jesus gives us very specific imagery here, not only because hell is a very real place, but to stress how important our actions and decisions in this life are. Our time here is short, and most of the time we decide to waste it chasing the pleasures of this world.

Without question, every man on Earth justly deserves hell. There's only one way out of God's righteous judgment, and that's through the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches us that we've been redeemed through Christ's blood. I hear many people come to me and say, "Different religions are different paths to the same eternal life." How wrong can they be?

There's only one way to eternal life in Heaven, and that's through Jesus. Without Him, it's Hell. Remember, life's short, so use the time you've been blessed with to make the right decisions today!

Problem of Epic Proportions

An issue that's really been tugging at my heart lately is this: The unbliblical generation has arrived. I'm not using the term "unbiblical" to mean anti-Christian. I'm referring to a group of people that weren't raised correctly. People between the ages of 18-29 were raised without a strong bibilical background.

I recently ran across two books by Author and Barna Group President David Kinnaman, with both books having a very strong centralized message: the unbiblical generation has arrived.

In my opinion, if we are going to solve this problem we need to do it right, "Courageous" style! (For those of you who haven't seen the movie Courageous, it's a must see!) If you're part of this generation, and feel the need to dive deeper into God's word then it's time to turn your life around! For the following few weeks, this Blog is going to be dedicated to resolving this issue.

Hopefully with the right tools, and the right decisions, we can change this generation and ensure correct instruction for generations to come!

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

Remember, for the following few weeks, we are going to be dedicated to this sole issue alone. If you have any other topics you want to have discussed, then don't hesitate to leave a comment in the form below. Otherwise, I encourage you to take this journey with us!

Anti-theistic Education

So, I came across a poll from about 2 years ago that really struck me. A Barna Group poll done in 2009 shows that the Bible is being viewed as less and less sacred in the younger generations.

Why is this? I think there are multiple reasons:

The younger generation isn't being raised with a strong Biblical background. The public, and government institutions are pushing more and more to shove God out of the national picture, church attendance is down, and daily Bible readings have gone by the wayside.

Evolution is being taught in schools, but is creationism? Teachers aren't allowed to mention the name of Jesus let alone God. Public institutions are preaching anti-theism. Parents, how would you expect your children to have a solid Biblical foundation when they are a part of a daily anti theistic society?

I want to turn you to a documentary that just recent came out called IndoctriNation. The movie sheds some light on these public schools that are leaning more and more towards anti-theism. A strong Biblical background is very important for the next generation, and they aren't going to get that with our current public education system.

Hearers and Doers

"Christian's" are in trouble. I'm talking about the modern day, go to church on Sundays, read along with the pastor, then go home and continue my life, Christians. The ones that don't let the Word of God change their life!

My favorite verse sums it up nicely:

"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." -James 1:22 (NIV)

For many, this is challenging. People don't like change, and especially if it involves changing their personal routine. I have to be honest, that this change is for the better! Stop fooling yourself into thinking that your a Christian when you are merely a hearer and not a doer.

Every time I start reviewing Bible prophecy, the topic that always amazes me is that many "Christians" won't make the cut (referring to the names in the book of life). Could this be the problem? Are we deceiving ourselves?

My challenge this week comes directly from, James 1:22. Don't just be a hearer, but be a doer. Get things done. Practice what you read.

5 Elements of Christianity: Lead

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..." -Matthew 28:19 ESV

Leading others to Christ is the mission of every Christian. If we truly love our neighbor, then we will be that much more willing to lead them to Christ.

This step isn't easy, and it's not something that should be done just because your supposed to. It should just come natural. Once you love, you'll care enough to lead.

Part of leading is setting a good example. When it comes to our business or personal lives, we always need to be following and setting the example of Christ.

Unfortunately, this is one of the hardest parts of being a Christian. This is also what least Christians take part in. The general attitude in today's society is life is all about you. Once you're saved, then that's it. In reality, that's not it. There are millions and millions of people out there who need to hear this. It's time Christians start leading others, just as Christ lead us.

5 Elements of Christianity: Love

I'm sure it hasn't been long since you've heard that, "Jesus loves you" or "You're a Christian, aren't you supposed to love?"

Christians are called to love. Loving God with everything we have is not an option. Neither is loving our neighbor as ourselves. But, how is that love supposed to look like in the real world? How can our love truly be an example to others?

First, let's look at loving our neighbor. I want you to understand that by "neighbor", we aren't limiting this to the people that live within the homes surrounding yours. We are talking about everyone. We need to love the whole world and everybody in-between as much as we love ourselves!

We also need to love the Lord with everything we have. Not just part of you, but all of you. Not just on Sundays, but on every day of the week. We need a relationship. A loving, working relationship. Loving the Lord means that you find time to enjoy, and love reading His word. We will have more on this topic in the next couple blog posts with my post titled: "Jesus Loves You...So Love Him Back!"

I challenge you to live our this real life love this week!

5 Elements of Christianity: Fast

Fasting should be considered just as important as the other 4 elements. In several verses, we aren't given the option to fast, but commanded to fast. Just like praying and giving, there are several reasons for it, and there are different ways to go about doing it!

Medical professionals will tell you that fasting is a great way to detox the body. It rids the body of all the poisons and toxins it collects over time. It's great not only for medical reasons, but for spiritual reasons.

My favorite couple of examples of fasting in the Bible are in Matthew 17:21 and Mark 9:29. In this specific incident, Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy after the failed attempts from the disciples. Shortly after, the disciples ask Jesus why they couldn't accomplish the same thing.

Jesus answered "this kind can come out only by prayer and fasting."

Depending on your translation, you might have to read the footnotes. In any case, Jesus stresses the importance of prayer and fasting. Fasting is needed in order to accomplish tasks.

What I've found to be a great idea is some churches are event hosting fasting events at the beginning of every year.

Whatever type of fasting you choose or length of the fast, you need to remember one important thing: fast to God, and not to man!

PS: If you want more info. on fasting please comment below and I can get it to you ASAP!

5 Elements of Christianity: Give

One of the most important aspects of every Christian's life revolves around giving. Christians are called to give in several different ways. Giving finances is vital to the Christian. Tithes and offerings are necessary but they are only just a start.

Let me ask you a few basic questions. Do you have a roof over your head? How about some way of transportation? Clothes and food? If so, then your one of the top richest people in the world! Some would even go so far as to say, you and I are filthy rich. We are. It's the truth. Skip out on one meal out this week and give to those who are less fortunate. Spread the love of Christ through giving willingly!

It's also important for every Christian to give their time. Volunteer in your community. Assist your church. Help out at a food bank. Almost all American's in today's society are materialistic. Giving will change that!

Giving is important not only to the receiver but to the giver as well. It's a blessing to learn the joys of giving. I promise you this, your perspective on life will change! Give generously and be blessed!

5 Elements of Christianity: Pray

Prayer is extremely important in the life of every Christian. In the gospels, Jesus teaches us how to pray and even provides a perfect example for us. In Matthew chapter 6, we are commanded to pray in private. Most importantly, we aren't to boast about our prayers.

Throughout the Bible, we see clear examples of different types of prayer. There are long, detailed prayers and then there are also short and to the point prayers. Reasons for prayer vary as well. You can pray to give thanks, and for healing purposes.

Prayer is a constant reminder that no matter how hard you work, you are not the outlining factor in control of your life, but God is. He's the one that tells us that if we ask, we will receive whatever we ask for in prayer! (Matthew 21:22) This is personally one of my favorite verses.

In my personal prayer life, I have given myself a goal to spend more time praying for others than I do of myself. Over time, people can get into the habit of praying more selfish prayers and not thinking about others.

I challenge you this week to ask God for wisdom. Then pray for those around you who are in desperate need to hear the gospel of Grace through Jesus Christ!

Monday Update

Just wanted to fill you all in on what's going on this week. Starting tomorrow, we are going to kick off a 5 blog-post event entitled "5 Elements of Christianity" and we'll get to go into some real detail with all 5.

Should be a great week in blogging. Also, I wanted to share with you what's going on in reference to the actual blog: The blog is up and running, but it will be going through a long stretch of remodel, and hopefully we will be able to put together a partner website along with it in order to centralize the ministries and develop better communication.

A lot planned over here! Prayers and support are always encouraged.

Personal Relationship with Jesus

Time after time, I'm reminded that the fastest growing religious group in the modern world today is spirituality. I want to start by looking at the difference between religion and spirituality.

Religion is the set of beliefs, where as Spirituality says you can have "religion" without the organization.

More and more people are claiming to be spiritual. Well, what does that mean? It means more and more people want to define their own religious beliefs and values, and include or exclude exactly what fits for them in their personalized system of spirituality. Those spiritual people say, "It's my God, so I define Him how I want to!"

You've heard the saying, "..your personal relationship with Jesus..."

That's what makes Christianity different. It's not a religion. It's a relationship.

Don't let spirituality get in the way. Don't let our personal relationships with Jesus, turn into our private relationship with Jesus.

5 Christian Must-Do's

Following Christ isn't always easy, but it's what every Christian must do! Today, I'm sharing with you how I summarize the life of a Christian...

1. Pray: We need to have a daily prayer routine. Spend time thanking God for all he has given you. Don't forget to pray for others. Personally, I try and spend more time in prayer for others than I do praying for myself. Talk to God. Every relationship needs good communication!

2. Give: Learn the joys of giving! God says that you will reap the yields of the harvest. Time after time, He has proven this to be true. Times get tough, but never stop giving!

3. Fast: In Matthew 6:16 we are told "when you fast..." Fasting isn't a question of 'if' but 'when.' Just make sure you fast for the right reasons!

4. Love: Jesus loves you, so love him back and love others!

5. Lead: The great commission tells us to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. Our jobs as Christians is to lead others to Christ. Leading takes many shapes, but lead nonetheless.

This week, get in the habit of praying, giving, fasting, loving and leading, and you'll be a better Christian!

180 Movie

A new video released by Ray Comfort on the abortion topic is gaining popularity in the world of social media.

180 Movie changes several peoples opinion on abortion is minutes. This 33 minute long video links the Jewish Holocaust to how abortion is occurring in the United States.

Watch the video today and spread the world. I believe this is something everyone must see! But be warned, the video includes graphic content!

Persecuted Brothers and Sisters

Recently, I came across the "One With Them" Campaign where we are asked to stand one with the persecuted church. Everyday, our brothers and sisters in Christ are kidnapped, tortured, imprisoned or even sentenced to death for spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. November 13, 2011 is being considered the National Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.

Just today, I heard that Iranian Pastor Youcef is being considered for the death penalty. Pastor Youcef was asked by a judicial board in Iran to recant his faith in exchange for the faith of his fathers (Islam). I'm asking you today to sign the ACLJ's petition to pressure Washington DC to act now for Pastor Youcef. The time to act is now!

Will you stand one with me for our persecuted brothers and sisters?

He's in Control

God is in control. Accidents are merely acts of of sovereign control to God. In Exodus 4:11 we read that God is the reason for all the deaf, mute and blind.

Sometimes life gets in our way. Things happen. The pressures of life can cause stress. It's in those times when we need to back up and take a look at everything thats happening. God is in sovereign control.

Today, I want you to pray to the Lord and commit this week to the Him. Remind Him, but more importantly remind yourself that He is the one in charge.

Be Holy like the Lord

The worst part about being in 1st and 2nd grade was when you got a word wrong on a spelling test. I remember like it was yesterday. When I got home, we were forced to write, write and write the words we got wrong. There's something about repetition. It makes it easier to learn.

Same goes for scripture. In the Bible, there are a total of at least 4 occurrences of the same theme: "Be holy, because I am holy."

God pushes us to be holy. Like Jesus said, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. Pursue a more holy and righteous lifestyle, pray constantly, read the Word of God, and you will be filled with nothing but righteousness.

Daily Bible Readings

How many of you read your Bible? Let me re-phrase that. How many of you read your Bible on a daily basis? It's unfortunate, but most Christians don't.

According to the Barna Group, over the past 20 years, casual Bible reading (not counting church) has declined. Only 40% of adults now read their Bible on a weekly basis. This is a sad minority. It's time someone sends a message to Christians around the world.

Sadly, until about a year ago, I wasn't part of the minority. I was doing what a lot of so called Christians are doing. Once I did eventually start reading daily, I found new joys in God's word. I can honestly say that my life changed for the better, and I my prayer is that everyone would take the necessary steps to turn their lives around.

Daily Bible reading is part of the everyday Christian's routine. It's something we should practice out of habit. It's time to change those statistics. It's time to start walking the walk, instead of talking the talk. Faith without actions is dead, so get going!

Get Out

On this back to church Sunday, we need to be asking some very important questions about the church we attend. If your church ceased to exist in your community, how different would your community be?

Most churches these days aren't doing enough when it comes to community involvement. Whether it is walking in parades, volunteering at local food banks, or raising money for that family that lost their home in the recent fire, churches need to be doing these things to "step into the real world."

In doing this, we need to remember that no church community is perfect and that we all our working together to be the body of Christ. Casting Crowns puts it nicely:

"But if we are the body
Why aren't His arms reaching?
Why aren't His hands healing?
Why aren't His words teaching?
And if we are the body
Why aren't His feet going?
Why is His love not showing them there is a way?
There is a way"

What better time to start reaching, healing, teaching, and going then the start of a new church year? Churches, let's get our game faces on and get out!

New Age Atheism

Recently read an article about Richard Dawkins and his new approach to atheism. The Bible calls these people fools. No matter how you look at it they are being misled by Satan. Dawkins's theory tells the "new age thinker" to look specifically at the facts and make decisions based on science.

There is one major problem with this theory. According to science, bumble bee's can't fly. If a "new age thinker" is going to stick with the facts and make decisions solely on science, then bumble bee's can't fly.

I'm not sure about you, but I see them flying almost every summer day!

Let's pray for these "new age thinkers" and ask the Lord to speak with there hearts today.

Heed the Warning

With 2011 already shaping up to be the costliest year for natural disasters on record, we need to realize something bigger is working here. I want you to take a look at this years list of Federal Disaster Declarations. This list is compiled by FEMA and can be found here. As you can tell, it's quite an extensive list.

In Matthew Ch. 24, Jesus speaks of the signs of the times. As you are probably aware, the last sign he mentions are great natural disasters.

You've probably heard many pastors/teachers speak on this issue time and time again. If you're like many, it has probably been beaten into your brain so many times that you could scream.

For that reason, I'll only say this once: It's time to heed the warning.

"All these are the beginning of birth pains." -Matthew 24:8 NIV

Repent or Perish

"In the day of great slaughter, when the towers fall, streams of water will flow on every high mountain and every lofty hill." (Isaiah 30:25 NIV)

Interesting. For those of you who have Bible's, please turn to Luke ch. 13. If you're one of those people out there that aren't fortunate enough to have one, please contact me and I'll make sure you have one!

At the beginning of Luke 13 we find Jesus talking about a couple specific instances of death and great slaughter. The question came of of why these people died that way, and some even thought it was because they were worse sinners.

Jesus corrected them. It wasn't because they were worse sinners at all. In fact sin, has nothing to do with it. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. But these people didn't die for nothing, there suffering was supposed to be a lesson to the rest. Repent or Perish.

It's time for us as nation to repent. In modern day American, many are fighting to remove "God Bless America" or "In God we Trust" from American culture. Some claim it to be an infringement of rights. In my opinion, we are not doing enough to honor our Lord.

As I stood there in front of the TV, 10 years ago, I couldn't help but ponder the awesome power of God.Even when it comes to suffering and destruction, He's still in control. I just hope this lesson was not in vain. I pray that our nation will turn around and understand it to be a sign of repent or perish.

Looking Back at 9/11

Tomorrow kicks off the 10th Anniversary for the September 11th Terrorist Attacks. This day is special not only in this nations history but for the rest of the world as well.

Looking back, I've realized that out of that horrible day came a great life lesson. I was a young boy in 2001. Watching the events of that day unfold live on the television was hard for me. Since that day, the images of people jumping from the towers have been etched into my head.

That day gave me a sense of thankfulness and respect for life. Life is short. Life is precious. Most importantly, you never know when your time is up. My prayer for you is that you would appreciate the breath of life God gave you, and that you would use your time today to honor Him!

Spread the Love

As September 11th steadily approaches, what is your mindset toward Muslims? Do you love Muslim's like Jesus calls us to do? In Matthew 22 we learn that we are called to love the Lord, and love people.

Christians share many beliefs with Muslims (one god, creation etc.) but in no way are the 2 comparable. Many people in today's society try and blend our religions in an attempt to bring peace and prosperity. The modern "chrislam" movement tries to take teachings from both the Bible and Koran.

This movement is nothing less then idolatry. In Exodus 3:14 God reminds us that He is who He is and nobody can change or water-down that fact. We are reminded that nobody can gain access to our Heavenly Father except through Jesus, in John 14:6.

There are many ways to express love without embracing their religion. Christians should feel a deep love, compassion and drive towards lost souls. Muslim's need our love and affection more than most people realize. All it takes is a simple act of kindness.

The Power of Fasting

Timing is everything. As fall begins to roll in, maybe you should start something new. I recently read a book by Jentezen Franklin about fasting. In my opinion he nails it!

More and more people in todays world are turning into "weekend-Christians," where there is a place and a time for Christianity. For most people that place and time where Christianity is accepted is Sunday morning church.

As we read the Bible, we learn that Christianity is a way of life. The rest of the world should be able to look towards a group of people and point out the Christians. If that were the case, would you be selected? Do you stand out from the crowd?

One of my favorite verses in the Bible reads as follows:

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." -Matthew 17:20 (NIV)

It's not every day we see mountains moving. According to Jesus, all Christians should have the power to 'move mountains'. Maybe it's because of our little faith? Or could it be were missing the point?

Fasting is key to a Christians life. The Bible doesn't speak of fasting as an option. Jesus gives us guidelines for 'when we fast' not 'if'!

I encourage you this fall to begin a fast. Weather it be a 1, 3, or 21 Day fast remember to do it for His Glory!

Meet Leonardo

I start my post today by asking a few basic questions:

1. Do you have food & water readily available for use today?
2. Do you have clothes to wear?
3. Do you have some type of shelter?
4. How about some type of transportation?

If you said yes to these basic questions, then consider yourself rich when compared to the rest of the world. Filthy rich!

Personally, I know a family that survives on less than $100 (US) per month!

Meet Leonardo!

He's my sponsor child I've been sponsoring through Compassion International. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the people at Compassion for doing what they do. Their love, care, and kindness give children like Leonardo a chance at a better life and a chance to learn about Jesus!

If you have any questions or concerns today regarding Compassion International or any other form of sponsorship, I encourage you to leave a comment below.

God First

Readings of the Bible this week bring us into the book of 2 Samuel to read and learn about the life and rule of David. Though David sinned (like we all do), he was said to be the apple of God's eye. As we review his life and actions throughout his rule we can learn how we too can become as right with God as David was.

David was pursued many times in his early life by Saul. He had several changes to kill his pursuer but David chose not to. It wasn't his anger that caused his actions, it was his wisdom. David had the wisdom to know that our leaders have God given authority to lead, and no matter how bad the situation seems to be, we should always ask God for direction.

The most important thing is David put God first! Do you always put Him first in your life?

On this Labor Day Monday, I pray this week that you will strive to put God first, just like David.

Praise God!

First off, I would like to thank everyone in my life who has encouraged and pushed me to pursue what God called me to pursue. Nothing is impossible when the Lord takes charge, and my big evangelistic plans God intends for me, I believe, are only the beginning of great years to come.

I'm reminded constantly of a verse in Jeremiah. It reads as follows:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" -Jeremiah 29:11(NIV)

As I begin this new blog I'd like to give a big shout out to the Lord! I commit this to His will, and for His glory!