The Post Monster [LONG].

(Addendum: Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.")

I’ve been in kind of a slump lately (or at least, more so, for the past couple of days). I’m guessing that it all started out on Monday when I took one of the exams currently in the school backlog. I failed it miserably – most likely not even aching out 40 total points. In my defense (whatever it may be) the exam was only allotted an hour, and I make the conclusion now that I either do not know the material well enough, or am not smart enough to pull problems like the ones on the test off in that time period.

Then, yesterday, exam two of many was made available. I completed (most) of it – leaving a few problems blank because I had no clue where to find the answers…or did not even know what was being asked in the question. Again, in my defense, this is the same class that I have been having supreme difficulties with – the like of which would take many posts and I would rather not harp on now. Needless to say, I attribute both of these instances to my own performance, but for the sake of saving-face, I also need to point out that I feel 5% or so of the blame should be shifted elsewhere.

Up ahead I have 3 quizzes, 2 case assignments, and a professional letter to write (all by the end of this week). This is 100% my fault, no doubts about it. I have had such lackluster performance this term in the “getting things done” area that I take the blame here purely for good conscience. I have never liked school – and this semester I am bordering on using the “H” word. Bad professors, difficult assignments, procrastination, and life have all gotten in the way. I will be thoroughly pleased when May rolls around and I can be done for a bit…I just pray (seriously) that I pass these classes and maintain good enough grades to continue receiving my financial support.

Next on the list of torment is the depressed mood I have been in. I am pretty sure it all started on Monday, because Sunday was awesome (as usual). I think failing that test really did a number on me, because it has been down hill ever since then. I know I am letting this affect me more than it probably should, but I tend to get emotional every now and then and this certainly seems like one of those times. I have been scared, anxious, depressed, excited – and many other descriptions over the past few days. I am wearing myself out.

Perhaps it all revolves around the girl at church. Not the one who I am “madly in love with” but the new interest that has taken my fancy recently. I met this girl about a month ago at a bible study we were having and have been interested since. On Sunday we got to talk a little, and then after service I gave her my number. It was purely on the “hang out if you’re bored” sense – and I was really hoping she’d call. So, considering I don’t think my phone has rung all week – yet again, another moment in the dumpster. She seems to be a rather shy, reserved person…but I see that in myself as well – which I thought would be cool…two people hanging out who (I think) really need time away from the world.

So what has God been doing in all of this? I honestly cannot say. That alone should speak volumes about what all of this is doing to me. I started receiving the Bible-by-email thing again – and there are almost two weeks worth sitting unread in my mailbox. I haven’t opened the Bible in almost a week – and my prayers have been mostly selfish, pitiful cries about me, me, me. I got a phone call (hey, there was one) the other day from an organization I spoke to at the Passion Conferences. I pretty much zoned out the entire time, completely involved in nothing. Even when the girl (who was extremely sweet, I thought) prayed for me I couldn’t help but feel “eh.”

Am I self-destructing? Probably not. I’ve been in places like this before and they have come and gone. I imagine when I get these assignments off my back I’ll be able to breathe a little better. Then I’ll have time to reinvest my time with God – which is where I should be, but am not, placing it first. Plus, this Sunday I’ll (probably) be able to talk to my friend, the girl, again. Maybe I’ll play things right and actually “get somewhere” (in the area of normal, human conversation) with her.

I hate feeling this way – emotionally and physically. I also dislike the fact that I am *this close* to pitying myself. I seriously sound like such a whiner.

I got my Symphony in Peril C.D. back today – so that is good news. And, maybe, the bible study will hit it off sometime this weekend, so there is always that. Either way, I’m really wanting to escape (there’s the biggest word of all of this) into a game of NCAA March Madness 2005. Maybe I just want to escape all of this right now. I need a vacation that doesn’t involve me sitting on my bum neglecting the important things.

I really need to get over myself, honestly!

A Quick Rave.

I thought it might be fitting to mention that Jesus can and will help you with any troubles you are having in your life - no matter how minute or unimportant they might seem. He wants you to experience freedom - and to live life with joy in Him. If you don't already have Him in your heart, invite Him in today (a tribute to His glorious resurrection!). For those who already know Jesus - let us continue to praise His name and bring glory to God. Everyday is a chance to share the Good News - and how awesome it is to be on the receiving end!

(As a sidenote - did anyone see the Illinois game? at the very end when the player was showing off his shoes decked out with bible verses and the name "Jesus" on one shoe, with "Christ" on the other? Some might have seen him as kind of odd - but I saw a man giving praise where it was due. I love seeing Jesus glorified.)

A Quick Rant.

Well, I'm very glad that in a couple weeks I'll be able to see some bands I like, because there seems to be a disturbing trend immerging when it comes to my musical interests.

First, I get in to Norma Jean - and then the lead singer, Josh Scogin, leaves. Now I will never get to see him as the frontman for the band. They might play some of the songs off "Bless the Martyr" but it just isn't the same. And, yes, there is The Chariot (his new band) but, like I said in the last sentence...just not the same.

And today - with news that actually dropped my heart - Shawn Jonas has left Symphony in Peril (a band that is quickly climbing the ranks to become my top favorite...and for those that know me, to actually say I have a favorite band, it means something).

Anyway - I'm very happy that he has made a decision in his life that he is comfortable with, and I wish him the best (because his decision shows he has priorities, and I agree with his). Either way, I'm really bummed now because I'll never get to see Jonas sing.

http://www.symphonyinperil.net/goodbye.jpg - The goodbye letter posted on the band's site.

The Month of Concerts.

It looks as if April has turned out to be music month. On April 8th my dad and I will be heading to Fairdale, KY to see Zao, Still Remains, and Sinai Beach. I found out about this concert today and am totally psyched - because I did not think I was going to get to see Sinai Beach (probably my favorite band) this year. I am going to be missing a group meeting at church (same night) which bums me out - and had me thinking about whether or not to go - but I thought it would be a good chance to hang out with my dad...so I decided I could miss one night at church (considering these are Christian bands, it's not too much of a change).

The week after that, April 15th, my dad and I will be in Louisville, KY to see As I Lay Dying. There are a couple other bands with them (Winter Solstice being the only other Christian band I know of) but it should be a good show with AILD headlining.

Then, if I am not too tired from all of that, the next Thursday - Sunday (April 21 - 24) I'll be having fun at Ichthus - a yearly Christian music festival held in Wilmore, KY. This will give me a chance to see a lot of bands from differing genres - as well as being able to spend some time with a bunch of other Christian people in a (hopefully) comfortable, fun environment.

We missed the Norma Jean show we had tickets for a couple weeks back - and it looks as if God (although He did not have to) has provided more than enough fun for my dad and I. I'm just real happy I get to see some bands I really want to see and I get to hang out with my dad while doing it. Hopefully the weather will be nice and our schedules can stay bare so we don't have to worry about anything as they get closer. Either way, I'm thanking God for the opportunity.

Church Today.

(Edit: I felt it absolutely necessary to comment that not even one day ago I was feeling low and defeated - and God has already had the grace to lift me up, this morning and tonight, probably higher than I have ever been. I cannot think of words enough to praise Him...)

Both my morning group I go to and the evening service were amazing.

In the earlier we were having our second week of what was called "Club Café." The mission of it (as far as I can gather) was to create a place where college-students (the chosen demographic for this specific group setting) could come, listen to music, dance, and have fun - while still focusing on the Lord...and also while learning a little bit spiritually, too.

Near the end we came together in small groups (3-4 people) and basically talked about what God was doing in our lives, then we migrated into a prayer circle with each person hitting on specific topics related to what had been discussed. I got the chance to talk about my call to ministry and was supported (which is great) and also had a chance to pray for the group (which I am normally very anxious about). In this situation, though, I feel I did really well - which I can only attribute to the power of the Holy Spirit, and God working in my life.

The evening service was great. Not only did my best friend come back, but so did his wife (whom I thought might have made last week her last trip, had it not been for the great things going on in her life right now). Either way - it was great to have them there...but it was also something very moving for me. I have to say it was one of the best in quite a while - I "realized" a lot of things (or was shown rather). From now on I am going to (try) not to worry about what people think about me and my relationship with God - and I am going to (try) to proclaim His name and glory wherever I go (which is a direct relation to my going ahead with trying to become a licensed minister). The only reason I say "try" above is because I know I am not perfect and will not always be able to keep up with my "vow" - but I am going to try my hardest - because God deserves it (and more).

My goals for the (near) future:

1. Get VERY involved with God's word (for my personal benefit, as well as to be more familiar with things I want (and need) to have knowledge of).

2. Start a bible study (this is something I've really wanted to do for a while, but can now take part in (hopefully) with my friends - because of their newfound interests).

3. Strengthen my prayer life (with the power and results I have seen already, this could be marked equally with #1).

4. Start working on and fixing/conquering/removing/etc. (with the Lord's help) the things in my life that need work.

5. Anything I may have missed above.

Well...

I'm being accused right now. The details are inconsequential - but to those who have talked to me before, they would know why exactly I fell (and what I am being accused of). It's difficult right now - because this isn't something new (even in the last few days, honestly) and with my most recent decisions it seems like this is something I should have conquered by now - or at least be closer to the end of the battle. I admit total fault - I chose to listen to myself, to the flesh, rather than listen to Christ. He was there - the soft, intelligent, CORRECT voice...but my lust shut it out.

And so now I am putting it in the light. I have heard that Jesus is already telling Satan, right now, "It is finished." - and while I have faith in that and am sure that He will renew me, I just pray that He does not get tired of helping me back up. I am totally dependent upon His grace because I am very aware that I cannot make it on my own.

I won't ask for forgiveness - because His precious blood took care of that long before I was ever even a thought on this earth...but I will ask for His continued faithfulness and love. I will ask for Him to take my hand and show me better how to listen to the Holy Spirit and have courage to face temptation and respond, always, with an adamant "No."

Thank you so much God - even in this time where I have turned from you - for being more loving and awesome than I can imagine.

I'm (probably) Going To Do It.

My friend wrote me back on what exactly the requirements are for becoming a licensed minister in the ECC (Evangelical Christian Church). Looking at their online page - it seems there are four levels. I would most likely start off on the second, or the third - described as such:

II. LOCAL AND DISTRICT MINISTER - This credential is granted to a person who feels called of God to work for Him in some specific field, such as Bible teacher, Christian counselor, evangelist or pastor. This credential places a person under a local pastor's authority for a period of no less than 12 months to learn about ministry and accountability. The Local and District Minister has five requirements: (1) One must have a calling of God on her or his life; (2) Must be 18 years of age; (3) Living a consistent Christian life; (4) He or she will have experienced the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4) with the evidence of gifts for ministry (1 Cor. 12:4-10, 28); (5) The candidate must agree to the giving plan as set forth by the Bishops of the church and promote the AECC.

III. LICENSED MINISTER - This credential is granted to a person who is called of God and wants to step up to a higher order. With a license one is authorized to preach, perform holy matrimony, baptize, serve the Lord's Supper, exhort, confirm, and practice any biblical and religious activity pertaining to the office of Minister of the Gospel, in accordance with respective ordinances of residence. There are three requirements for License to Preach: (1) The Candidate Must be 19 years of age; (2) She or he should have experienced the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4) with the evidence of gifts for ministry; (3) The candidate must agree to the giving plan as set forth by the Bishops of the church and promote the AECC.

The last step would be the decision to devote my lifetime to ministry - which even though I do devote my life to Christ, and will speak of Him whenever and wherever the chance, is not a place I am at yet. Or did I just contradict myself with that statement? :)

This is something that I want to do, and is a step I am ready to take. When/if the time arises that I am called to do something else - or find my opportunity arise - I will have already been ready and have taken some steps towards it.

All prayers are welcome: for wisdom, courage, and direction. Thanks.

A Call To Ministry?

Lately I have been having some thoughts about my chosen occupation. I absolutely love information technology and the world I would be involved in when I graduate in 2006 (if I can find a job, of course). However, people have been talking to me a lot about a different career path that has made me wonder what exactly the next few years have in store for me.

While I was over at my cousin's house ("helping" him install a network) I realized that a lot of the skills I thought I had (and probably should have) were not there. It then dawned on me that in the few years I have been in college - I haven't really learned a whole lot (or so I thought then). I started thinking hard (for that moment) whether or not the few people who thought my going into the ministry might be right.

I really do not want to be in school anymore when May of 2006 rolls around and I walk the stage to accept my Bachelor's. It has just taken a lot out of me - and I am both bored with it and tired of all of the hassle. Also, any change in careers at this point would be very late - and would have a dramatic effect on my "life plan."

While I think it would be fun to talk about God for a living - and something I am very sure I would be very passionate about - I just do not think it fits. It makes absolute sense, but I don't think it fits. I'm just more worried at this point in my life about finishing school and finding the love of my life to even consider changing such a big path.

If anyone still comes to this site - I would love some opinions on the matter. Thanks...

Things Often Change.

I was going to devote my post tonight to the childlike rants I had about still being single. I had this great tirade I planned to go on about this-and-that - which, thanks be to God - I realize is much less important than what I am about to talk about: Him.

I guess when you are as awesome as God is, it is not really surprising that you should continually "one-up" Yourself, or even make sure that every time a person who knew You, and loved You, came and took a look that they didn't see how much bigger, and better, and just plain rocking you were.

I have talked at length multiple times about my hope that my best friend would open his heart to the message that I received about 5 months ago (the message of Christ). Yes, of course I had this great plan in my head that he would become a Christian and we could sit around on weekends and contemplate God, but I've grown a bit since then - and it makes me very happy to see him at church, joyfully soaking up everything the minister has to say...applying that message to his life to become a better person (or, a different person...which is the goal).

Now - if that wasn't enough - God provided me a chance the other night to speak to my best friend's wife...whom was having some of the very same problems I have dealt with (and still deal with) in my life (Christian or before). I just read her first post on her blog - and I'd be lying if I didn't give glory to God in opening her heart as well.

Two. That's two people who in such a very short time (a couple months, maybe) God has used my current situation in life to spark some interest in Himself. I want to take credit - to mark them up as "convert" notches - but I can't. They mean so much more to me than simply another familiar face in church, another person I can talk with about Christ, just a project that is now finished. I will walk with these two people, regardless of where they go, until Christ brings me home. I will continuously be there to share my life - and to share in theirs - until it just isn't time for that anymore. And above all - beyond all - I will sit in awe of such a magnificent God that could make something like this happen...who could love us so much that He wouldn't choose to hide Himself from us or leave us all alone.

Yeah...I'm thinking right now about that girl at church I have a crush on, and how great it would be to be her boyfriend...but that all fades away when I step back and take a look at God.

Glory Be To God!

It is absolutely stunning how awesome God is. Nothing is beyond His power and He continually amazes me every moment. This very week he has shown me the message of the gospel, helped me invite Christ into my body (to be truly saved for maybe the first time since I began my walk), strengthened my prayer life, taught me more than I can outline here, brought my friend back to church (as well as opened his heart), and just before I got home this evening, He allowed me to spend a few hours with my friend's wife, talking about such relevant issues that spoke to me just as much as I pray they spoke to her.

Before I go on I need to praise God and lift His awesome name above all others. Be glorified in all creation, my Lord, and may my works be but reflections of Your majesty.

I hope that my friend's wife will get on here and read this, so that I can speak "directly" to her on this page as I did in her presence. Believe in the power of God! The troubles we spoke about can be temporary and removed when you seek shelter in Christ! Such truth has been revealed to me since we talked - I just wish I could be there to let you know. My true hope is that you will go before God in prayer and ask Him to open your heart and lead you in the direction He wishes.

Father, I pray that my words tonight have been of the Holy Spirit and are a guiding process to Your will for the lives of my friend, his wife, and all who might encounter them. I pray that You will continue to work in their lives and testify to the truth that is happening amongst them. Father, I long for them to turn to you and lose themselves in Your great glory. Fill them with strength, hope, and wisdom in the Spirit of God. Keep them safe from demonic attacks and allow your love and faithfulness to be shown. In all things I pray in Jesus' holy name, amen.

God In The Bible.

I was thinking back on a quote I had seen from a man who was talking about some doubts he had been having with his faith, and how his experiences might help another person going through quite the same thing. It then clicked in my mind a relation to a lesson I had learned in one of my Wednesday Encounter classes.

The quote was talking about how the man was faced with the decision from his church (or group) to either accept literal-7-day-creationism or to give up God. He said that he gave up God and found Jesus Christ. The key word in this entire circumstance is "found."

In my class, we were learning (or talking) about how the Bible is a book where the goal of reading it is to know the author. Most books do not have the purpose of conveying personal information about the author and most people do not pick up a book simply to learn more about the author (unless it is an autobiography). When the Bible is seen as an autobiography, it can be understood that the message is not to get wrapped up in the stories (as they might seem) but to rather FIND God and see a little more about who He is (I can see in my head the entire point of it all being God saying, "Look at Me!" - a quote often used in the most recent message series at my church (God's God-centeredness a complete different topic all its own)).

Either way, what this all relates to is that the message we should be getting in all of this is a better picture of the God we serve (and love), without getting wrapped up in the sometimes inconsequential or distracting details. I hear people talk a lot about how the Bible is the greatest love story ever told, or the greatest action/adventure, and then about how it is a love letter - or this, or that - but then I see some people who get so extremely wrapped up in analyzing every little thing, or making things out to be what they are not. It just seems like the purpose and our direction are two complete opposites.

I will not claim here to be a Bible scholar, or expert...and maybe that is a good thing. The more I realize what it really means to read the Bible, and how everything fits together, the more I tune in and want the invitation to be part of it all. These past few Wednesdays I have learned something completely new every time - and the Holy Spirit is continually testifying to the truths I come across and reworking things in my heart and mind. For all of this, I can only thank and praise that influence in my life.

A Quick Topic.

On my friend's blog, he recently posted on corporal punishment in schools:

http://jdwright.us/index.php/archives/2005/03/09/corporal-punishment-in-schools/

For clarity, the definition I found states:

“Any kind of physical discipline, including a range of behaviors from spanking and hitting to injuring children.”
(http://ucl.broward.edu/pathfinders/Corporal_Punishment.htm)

I am sure there are other definitions out there, and I know that most often this term is used describing only the act of spanking - but I do find it a bit frightening to see the hitting and injuring of children part in there.

Either way, my friend was talking about a personal experience he had while attending a Christian school in which he was spanked because of his difficulty memorizing Scripture. He spoke that the entire time this was happening, the people doing the punishing were praying for him.

In my honest opinion, this situation did not warrant punishment. In essence, memorizing Scripture as an assignment is no different than any other subject - and the student's difficulty in accomplishing the task is not something demanding punishment. People have difficulty completing assignments and should not be reprimanded for that. If, however, my friend had been blatantly acting out and refusing to do the assignment, even after some sort of verbal warning (which should always come first) was not accepted, then and only then should this have happened.

When my father spanked me as a child, it was because I did something that required that type of punishment. And I was not spanked often (in fact, I can count the entire amount in my life on one hand). After he spanked me, he would also always tell me that he still loved me and that what happened was because of my actions. This, I believe, is a proper way to discipline a child.

What this all comes down to is my belief that we are often times shifting the blame to places where it is not deserved. When something bad happens (as my friend mentioned, the Columbine tragedy) we immediately have to have someone to blame, and that blame often focuses itself onto the parents (in events where the actions were taken by minors). This is unacceptable. A parent can only go so far in assuring that their children follow the "right path" and that their mindset is focused on things of a non-threatening nature. We should not immediately blame a parent unless it is found that they were either directly responsible, an accessory to the fact, or completely devoid of influence upon the child.

I also believe, however, that we do not discipline our children like we should anymore. When I was in high school, I saw things happen that even then (before I became a believer in Christ and my viewpoints became a bit more conservative) I thought were completely unacceptable. Things I would never want my children to do. Even today - things have gotten worse. We no longer demand our children's respect and set ourselves as an authority figure in their lives. This, I know, can be done effectively and with complete love and compassion. It can also be done while respecting the child as a person and giving them the free space they desire. I know this because it was how I was raised...and I think I turned out very well.

What's my ultimate conclusion? Parents need to take responsibility for their children - which means they need to be willing to discipline them and love them (both important aspects in raising a child). When something happens (whether tragic or not) the focal point and blame should not be immediately put upon the parents - but those who chose to act the way they did.

What's Been Happening?

Not a whole lot, to tell the truth. I mean, life has been wonderful for the most part - I have been learning a whole lot more (spiritually) everyday. We got a new puppy, too (a black pug - like the one we lost about a year ago). He's in his pen right now, whimpering. I hate to hear him that way, because he's a sweet little thing, but we can't let him have free reign of the house when he's this small.

I'm starting to think this crush on this girl I know at church is growing. I've been telling myself not to get wrapped up in it - for multiple, valid reasons...but everytime I see her I just lose myself, kinda. She is very attractive, really sweet, and an amazing Christian to boot (it seems like not so long ago I was saying this about another girl). I don't know what God plans to make of these feelings and situation - all I know is that when I see her it makes my day - and I think about her a lot.

I'm trying to focus myself more on God - because I know when I make Him my focus then everything falls into place. But I am still questioning some of the things going on in my life right now - and what exactly I should do about it (primarily my familiar single status in the dating community). I've been feeling really left out of my "group" at church as well - almost to the point where I feel invisible...so that has been a difficulty I am facing as well. I'm trying hard to not let it become a stumbling block - because I know God put these people into my life for a purpose, and I know that what I might be feeling temporarily does not always equate to what will be there in the future. Time it seems will just have to tell.

That seems like enough for now. My room is real cold, again, so it's time to log-off and get under the covers - where my other dog has already been intelligent enough to burrow under. Dogs have got it made, I tell you.

Old Vs. New

Tonight was an excellent Encounter class. I went in expecting to have an argument about certain theological perspectives (the need to ever ask for forgiveness) and left feeling a lot more in tune with God's Grace (already resting in absolute forgiveness). My post will follow the ideas of Bob George - author of the book "Classic Christianity" - and main speaker in the video series I have been watching in my class.

This entire session was based around the perspective that we are no longer under the Old Covenant. The Old Covenant was one that required sacrifice for sins, separated man from God because of those sins, and was completely works-based (meaning man had to try to earn his forgiveness through action).

God found fault with the Old Covenant - not of itself, but of us who were unable to keep it. Having already known this in advance (that we would be unable to live up to the requirements), the Cross of Jesus Christ would usher in a New Covenant (see Jeremiah 31:31).

Jesus, full of grace and truth, fulfilled the Law by walking in perfect love. He upheld the Law through His death, taking upon Himself the punishment (Romans 6:23) of every person of the world. Through His death the Old Covenant passed away and the New Covenant came to life.

The New Covenant is one that promises redemption from the offenses committed under the first covenant and the receipt of the eternal inheritance (Hebrews 9:15). It is a covenant that is entered into through faith, rather than works (Galatians 2:16).

Jesus Christ sacrificed Himself once for all (Hebrews 7:27) and because of that we are able to have a relationship with God - to know Him as Abba, Father. It is an unending grace where one does not have to earn their way into companionship, but rather realize they are already there.

I cannot see what is stopping the world from taking this most precious gift in its arms and falling to its knees in praise of the Giver. Every knee shall bow and every tongue swear to the Lord Almighty (Isaiah 45:23). This is the power that Jesus holds - that when He returns all His Glory shall be known and returned to Him. Yet He waits, with an unrivaled patience, for the people of this Earth to confess that truth of their own choice. He wants the love, praise, glory, and companionship that is due Him - but He wants us all to willingly give it to Him. And thus He waits...but it shall not be forever.

Take this moment, right now, to make a decision. Give a couple hours of your day up and try out a church. Walk in, pick a seat, and open your mind to the Gospel (which I pray is being preached at whatever church you may find). If that sounds like a longshot - then maybe read one of the Gospels. I went through Matthew in a couple of nights...comfortable in my bed after the day's distractions had died down. Open your heart to receiving something you have never seen, or felt, or known before. Jesus can take anything and make His glory known...anything. I have already seen that impact in my own life, and now in my closest friend's. If there's a thought in your head that what I talk about so much on here could be true - isn't your eternal destiny worth a small bit of your free time?

My Lord, my all - what words can express this most magnificent gift that You have given me? The Holy Spirit testifies to Your love and allows me to be drawn near to You. I burn with an unquenchable desire for You...and I also feel so much for the people who have yet to witness You. Jesus, strengthen me and give me courage - and send me to confess Your truth to those who have not heard. I am just a child, Lord - that longs for Your teaching and embrace; but I am with You Lord, and You within me...how can I keep this to myself? How can I not long to spread the joy you have given me to those that I love? Allow my travels with You to be a constant journey of professing Your name and letting Your glory be shown even in my small world. Strengthen my faith, Lord - that it might be so abundant as to overflow. You alone are my everything and I ask this in Your holy name - be glorified in me.

The Power of God.

I have already talked a bit about how God is working in the life of my friend right now, but I wanted to comment here about something that has been going on in the media. This might be big news that everyone has heard about, but I like it:

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497529/20050228/story.jhtml

This is a report on the most recent service that took place at the Valley Bible Fellowship. There, former-Korn guitarist talked about his most recent decision to make Jesus the Lord of his life.

I just think it is so cool to see that absolutely no one is too lost to be found. He talks in the interview about how he had money, fame, and everything that some people believe is what they want - yet he felt "dead." Well, Christ has taken care of that and called him back to life. Brian is going on a trip to Israel where he will be baptized in the Jordan River (how cool would that be?).

My two favorite quotes were this from Brian himself:

"This is the book of life right here," he said, pulling a Bible from his back pocket. "It's not about religion, it's not about this church, it's not about me. It's about the book of life and everybody needs to be taught this. It's crazy, it's gonna do stuff like this, like change a guy in a rock band."

and this comment about what happened at the service:

At the end of their discussion, Vietti asked non-Christians interested in "being saved" to come forward, and at least 40 mostly young people followed suit. In the end, the pastor said more than 200 people came to Christianity throughout the services, including members of the media there to cover Welch's talk.

That's 200 people that have decided to learn more about God. That have decided that Jesus is the best way. That's 200 people that were moved by the Spirit to come closer to God. I just love this!

News From This Side...

Well, I don't really know how best to express it. Praise be to God! could be a start. My friend went with me to church this past Sunday - and let me know this weekend he shall be attending again. Plus, he expressed what I feel is sincere interest in following the four-week message we are currently in until the end. And if that was not enough - his wife (a close friend of mine and one whom I desire greatly to see Christ) is coming with us this weekend. I can only testify that my prayers have been answered in seeing my friend darken the doors of my church. As much as I want to say how great the church is right now, I absolutely MUST give all glory, honor, and praise to God. It is only through His Holy Spirit that my friend has been drawn back - and hopefully will be drawn closer to Him.

The television thing seems to be working well. I haven't turned mine on - it's still unplugged. I have, however, found a few moments when I leeched off of my parent's T.V. time in the living room. Alas, I cannot completely give this addiction up cold-turkey - but I think I am doing better (even though I still am neglecting homework at this moment).

I had some really great thoughts on Jesus today (which of course were not my own, but the Holy Spirit speaking to my soul). I finished the gospel of Matthew this morning and am looking forward to going on in my "trek" through the New Testament. I haven't really been absorbing things, per se, but rather going through and highlighting text as I read. I kid you not - almost the entire breadth of Matthew is colored over in a variety of highlight shades. Orange for what I believe are Old Testament references, blue for Jesus speaking and other things (the entire sermon on the mount I have made blue), and yellow for things that stand out to me. I feel so cool that I have actually read a gospel (this being the first time in my entire life, really). Not necessarily a monumental occasion by some regards...but it has made my day.

I have a lot of things I need to work on - spiritually, physically, etc. This Friday will mark 4 months since I was baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit...which I conclude still makes me quite the Christian infant. Yet, I have learned so much and received so much from God since that date. I just need to learn patience and need to allow myself to grow. I still have fears...about the strength of my faith primarily...I just want to give my life to Christ so bad. I don't know how much "easier" that would make things (as I know the way of Christ is VERY difficult). But, with eternity resting on my most recent decision (to make Jesus my Lord and Savior) I think that some small sacrifices (here-and-there, if pleasing to Him) are small prices to pay.

I'll ask now for continued prayer for my family and friends (myself obviously included). This so that God might continue to show His faithfulness and love towards us. I'll be praying for my friends who do not quite know the love of God...and I ask that your thoughts be with them as well. I also pray that the Spirit of God will make known to all of us the wisdom we need and courage we seek to do God's will. In Jesus' holy name I ask all these things, Amen.