Listen

"Hear, O my people, and I will warn you-if you will listen to me, O Israel!" (Psalm 81:8)

Several years ago, I took a Dale Carnegie class in LaGrange, Georgia to impove my speaking skills. One of the most valuable lessons I learned during the class was that the best speaker is a good listener. It makes sense if you think about it for a moment. People are not as interested in what you have to say as they are in having someone listen to what they have to say.

This concept is so true in the way we communicate with God. Anyone can throw out their laundry list of prayer requests, tack on an Amen, and feel like they have communicated with God. I am guilty of this myself, and feel that I often do not take the time to read His Word and patiently wait for His response or guidance.

Have you ever randomly opened the Bible and found a verse that was applicable to what you were going through at that very moment? It was not by chance, I assure you. God often speaks His truths directly into our lives through the pages of the Living Word.

This new year, take the time to read Scripture more and diligently seek His voice. There are too many blessings that we miss out on because of our failure to listen.

Break My Stride

The Lord directs the steps of the godly.  He delights in every detail of their lives.  Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.  (Psalm 37:23-24)


Looking back on the past year, there are some areas of my life I feel I improved on; others I still need to work on in the upcoming new year.  Learning how to deal with failure has been a struggle for me.

We are not to let failure get us down; it happens to all of us at some point in our lives and if dealt with accordingly, it can be used as a way to grow and mature.  I remember at summer camp trying to ride a horse for the first time...I kept falling off, but was so determined to learn to ride that I kept getting back in the saddle until I was successful.  The same should hold true for us today.

Most importantly, we are to never attempt to go it alone.  We can't give up on our relationship with God either.  As we quickly near the beginning of the new year, let go of your past mistakes and failures and look forward.  God is always with us and wants the very best for each of us, so make a new year's commitment to open your heart to Him, believe, and trust more!!!

He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother

But He answered and said to the one who told Him, "Who is My mother and who are My brothers?"  And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers!"  (Matthew 12:48-49)


I get a kick out of watching our oldest son, Elliott interact with our infant son, Elijah.  I am enjoying this now, but like all things, I know it will change drastically when both boys are interested in the same toys, etc.  At the age of three, Elliott is already a loyal big brother (most of the time.)

How much loyalty do you see on a regular basis?  I can not begin to fathom a time in the workplace where customers were actually loyal to their vendors and vice versa.  It just doesn't happen very often any more.

When you are loyal to someone, you show them love unconditionally.  Loyal people will represent you well to others and are people that can laugh and cry with you during the journey together.  Finally, loyal people make your dream their dream as well.  I can name a handful of folks that I share this type of loyalty with.

Unfortunately, there are people who are only out for themselves in this world and are not following the example that Jesus set for us.  We are to consider everyone we interact with a "brother/sister" in Christ.  Start with the people that are nearest and dearest to you; your spouse, children, parents, friends, neighbors, co-workers and see what loyalty does to improve your most valued relationships.

The Future

The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?  (Proverbs 20:24)


I came to a realization of how wise my wife was today as I took down all of our Christmas decorations-taking everything down is not near as fun as decorating, and my wife has been far away from the house during the past five years that I have taken the decorations down.  Some people leave everything up until the new year, some never, but I like to have everything back to normal and put away a few days after Christmas.

I had particular trouble removing two strands of lights from the Christmas tree today and couldn't find the pattern that Alicia had used light the tree.  Frustrated, I began to yank and pull until every pine needle had fallen all over the floor of our house.  Had I taken the time to pay closer attention to how the lights were hung in the tree, I could have saved myself some time and anger.

God reveals just enough of the future to increase our dependence on Him.  Only God knows what tomorrow holds for us, and to follow His will for our lives, we must learn to rely on Him and not our own understanding.  Faith is trusting Him and not only listening to yourself.  This is the essence of faith in a God who loves us and wants the best for our lives!

Open Letter to a Landlord

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  (Philippians 4:6-7)


Two days after Christmas and the next week things should return back to normal (whatever that is.)  The bowl games will be on through the middle of January and the few days left of December should be light working days until the new year, if the past few years have been any indication.  The return lines were out the door at both Wal-Mart and Target on Sunday, and with Christmas in the a distant memory, people are beginning to think about the new year and the hope and longing for new beginnings.

I know that I am hopeful to have a great 2011, but can't help but be somewhat anxious about the unknown.  My career completely changed since the passing of health care reform and there is no sign of improvement any time soon.  I don't believe in making resolutions, they just seem petty and normally are forgotten before the end of January.  Instead, I'd like to make some commitments to change and better myself.  One item that I would like to work on is praying instead of worrying.  I must learn to let God shape my worries into prayers.  When we pray, God instills in us a sense of wholeness with everything coming together for good.

It's great to know that we have a God who is sincerely interested in everything that we are concerned about;  He is always willing to listen and help us out.

Time (Clock of the Heart)

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.  (Romans 5:6)


As noted by one of our associate pastors during the Christmas Eve service at Cokesbury West, there is something about this Christmas season that makes people a little nicer.  People are also more generous during Christmas and most people are simply thankful.

God's people had been longing for a Savior for centuries before Christ was born in a manger, and God sent Him at just the right time.  We may never fully understand how or why this was the perfect timing until we get to heaven, but we know it went all according to God's plan.

Jesus was sent to live among us and to save every one of us and you can rest assured it was at a time when the most people, present and future, would be reached with the Good News of salvation! Glory to God in the highest!

Glory To God In The Highest

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."  (Luke 2:13-14)


I have waited for most of my life to see some dreams and hopes fulfilled...finding my soulmate, having two wonderful sons, being blessed with a loving and supporting family and friends, seeing Auburn play in the BCS Championship Game to name a few things.  

Some of the Jews were waiting for a savior to deliver them from Roman rule; others hoped the Messiah would deliver them from their physical ailments.  But Jesus, while healing their illnesses and establishing a spiritual kingdom, delivered them from sin.  Jesus' work is more far-reaching than anyone could imagine.

Christ was born, a love messiah, that lived among us and paid the ultimate price for sin, while opening the way for peace with God!  He offers us more than anything this world can possibly offer us; He gives us all new hearts that will last for eternity!

Merry Christmas and happy birthday, Jesus!!!!!

Light Of The World

There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  (Luke 2:11)
 
My good friend and neighbor decided to make a late night run to the mall in Knoxville to do some after hours Christmas shopping and I decided to tag along.  What I couldn't help but notice was the amount of stores that were open until the wee hours of the night; each set up with armies of clerks to move and sell merchandise.  Sadly, for many people, the shopping and gift giving is the only significance on Christmas day.
 
When the shepherds found the baby Jesus in a manger, they didn't just find any baby; they found "a Savior who is Christ the Lord."  He fulfilled ALL Old Testament prophecies and is the Messiah. 
 
What gift will you be looking the most forward to on Christmas day?

Lessons

Who among you fears the Lord? ...Whoever walks in deep darkness, without light, should trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God. (Isaiah 50:10)
 
The first part of my day yesterday started out incredibly awesome.  The weather was cool, but bearable for my morning jog.  All the Christmas lights shined brightly outside the homes in my neighborhood.  I talked to some old friends and wished them all a Merry Christmas.  Had a wonderful lunch with one of my clients at Dead End BBQ in Knoxville. Went in to Frank's Barber Shop later in the afternoon and they were showing the replay of the AU/USC Sec Championship Game. Life was good and I was on top of the world!  Another hour later, my wonderful day quickly began to change into the day from HELL.  Not to get too personal about work, but let's just say that an unfavorable business decision was made by one of my clients and I was on the losing side of it all.
 
Nothing happens in this life by chance.  There are reasons for everything happening, because God is in total and complete control.  As is normal for me, I kept wondering what I could have done differently to salvage the business that I lost.  It didn't occur to me until later on that God was in control of even my bad situation.  I may never know, why, but I have to trust that it was all part of God's master plan for my life. 
 
One thing is for sure, as I head into Christmas; even in darkness, I must learn to rely on God and trust Him. 

Good Advices

For a child is born to us, a Son is given to us.  The government will rest on His shoulders.  And He will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  (Isaiah 9:6)
 
I am not ashamed to admit that we have encountered difficulties over the course of our five years of marriage and have sought the advice of a marriage counselor.  Many people feel like failures because they seek outside advice in their marriages, but for us, we found it valuable and helpful for us to make it through some tough times. 
 
If you are fortunate, you may have someone in your life that you can depend on for good advice; a parent, co-worker, friend, or neighbor.  You are even more blessed when the person is wise, loving and caring in a godly way. 
 
Jesus wants to be that type of counselor in each of our lives as well.  His advice is always timely, loving, and perfect-the kind that will last not only through this lifetime but into eternity!  What a friend we have in Jesus!

Heart of Gold

When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.  (Colossians 3:4)


For those of you that have children or are even around any for a short amount of time, sharing is a hard lesson to teach.  It's funny that Elliott never seems to want to play with the toys in the toy box until another child is over at the house and shows the least bit of interest.  That particular toy becomes the only that Elliott wants to play with and such is life for a child.

As adults, we really aren't too different from children, if you think about it.  We all enjoy receiving more than we do giving; it's human nature.  We all look after ourselves first and then others (or sadly, not at all.)  God calls us to share every available resource we have with others; our time, money, talents, faith, and love.

God loved each of us to share His only beloved Son with all of us; the least we could do during this Christmas season is to realize how blessed we are by what God has shared with us and share that blessing with other people.  The benefits of giving far outweigh the temporary and fleeting satisfaction of receiving!

Immanuel

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel"-which means "God with us." (Matthew 1:23)


Jesus has been given many names and my favorite and is, Immanuel, which means "God with us." What a comfort to know that God loves so much that he sent his Son to live and dwell among us in the form of a human being.

Once a follower of Christ, there will never be a time or anything that can separate you from Jesus who lives among all believers in the form of the Holy Spirit.  It is a blessed assurance, and comfort to know that He is always with us.

We will always have someone to listen to us, to laugh with us, and to cry with us.  What a friend we have in Jesus!

I'll Stand By You (4th Sunday of Advent)

Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 1:19-20)

I can just imagine what my reaction would have been if prior to our wedding day, Alicia had told me that she was pregnant with someone else's child. Would I have been angry, hurt, and betrayed? Absolutely! Would I have decided to love her regardless and gone through with the wedding and parent a child that was not my own? I don't think so...

Joseph's character was revealed in his decision to stay with Mary and proceed with marrying her regardless of the fact she was carrying a baby that was not his. Had the angel not provided some additional information to him, such as the baby was conceived by the Holy Spirit, we may not know the Christmas story the way we know it today.

As a husband and father, Joesph's character helps to provide inspiration of how to love and support my family. His trust of God was as steady as anyone in the Bible. No matter how confused, scared or angry Joseph might have been, he stood by Mary and became Jesus' earthly father.

Help!

Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.  (1 Peter 5:7)


As I continue to grow in my faith, I am learning to let go of the stress and anxiety and cast my worries to God more often.  This is easier said than done because letting go means you must be humbled and acknowledge that God is in control of your life.  This also means you must trust Him completely with every aspect of your life.

Anytime you have a problem, difficult situation, concern or doubt, you can turn to God immediately and make your request known to Him.  God's provisions will come, often in stages, but He begins to do His work the moment you turn to Him through prayer.

By casting our cares and concerns to Him, He is quick to respond to the those who rely and depend on Him!  Praise be to God!

Temptation

Now that we know what we have...let's not let it slip through our fingers.  We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality.  He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all-all but the sin.  So let's walk right up to Him and get what He is so ready to give.  Take mercy, accept the help.  (Hebrews 4:15-16, The Message)


The older I become, the more I have come to respect others who share completely different points of view on life.  Many of my friends are on the opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to religion, politics, music, and even sports.  Finding a middle ground can be tricky at times, but I really try to relate to people that share a differing point of view.  Thousands of years ago, the high priests were an elite bunch that people simply couldn't relate to.

Let this sink in for a moment-the Creator of all of the heavens and earth lived here among us as a human being and faced the exact same temptations that all of us continue to face today.  The only difference was that Jesus was the only "perfect" human being that has ever lived; He never gave into any temptation.

We can be comforted knowing that He faced the seductive lure of temptation and never sinned, so He can relate to us in every way.  He loves us and can sympathize with us so that we do not have to sin when we are tempted!  Thanks be to God!!

Ball of Confusion

Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.  Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.  Keep putting into practice all you have learned.  ...then the God of peace will be with you.  (Philippians 4:8-9)


Have you ever found yourself saying something that you wish you could take back?  I am constantly finding myself regretting some of the comments that I have made and language that I have chosen to use at certain times.  Sometimes the music I listen to and the television I watch has a profound influence on my conversations.

I am a former disc jockey, so I go through all types of musical moods and journeys.  This time of the year on television, there is not much on between the end of the college football season and the start of the bowls.  Lately, I have been listening to everything from Christmas music to Paul Finebaum, Rivals Radio, Paul McCartney and even Jay-Z (you have to admit, he's a talented rapper!)  When I focus on some of the more Spiritual music, I begin to open my heart more to the Holy Spirit and fix my thoughts on the list of Godly things mentioned in the verse above.  When I listen to H.O.V.A., not so much so...

Life is a whole lot less confusing when we realize and accept that God is in control.  Because He is in control, you can take comfort in knowing that things do not happen by chance or randomly.  When you focus on things not of this earth, you begin to live your life more purposefully rather than in the hectic confusion that so many people choose to live in.

Take peace in knowing that God is in complete control and His promises will come true!

Living In Fear

The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion. (Proverbs 28:1)
 
During a conversation with a friend yesterday, we were recounting some of our skiing stories from childhood.  I told the story of how brave (or stupid) I was when I learned to ski in Junior High.  My parents paid to have my sister and I take ski lessons from the ski instructor at the slopes on Sugar Mountain in North Carolina. Being naive, we were much too cool to utilize the "pie technique" of stopping and instead opted to just ski straight down the mountain, taking out anyone or thing that dared to be in our path.  Many years later, I took a youth group skiing in West Virginia and was scared to death as I slowly took my time going down a black diamond.  What happened to me?  Why was I not fearless and brave like I was back in 1986???
 
The same holds true for our Christian faith.  We are don't enter into this relationship with Christ just to burrow ourselves into isolation and close out the rest of the outside world.  We must live freely and fearlessly and even be willing to take risks.  Too many Christians I know are just as scared as I was skiing down the black diamond and refuse to move outside of their comfort zones. They only socialize with like-minded people and their schedule only accommodates their small circle of friends from church.  (Please don't misunderstand me; we absolutely LOVE our friends from church, but we have many other neighbors and friends that haven't set foot inside of a church during their adult life.)   We need to live boldly and step outside what is comfortable to reach new people and share the love of Christ with others. 
 
During this Christmas season, make time for someone that needs to know the peace, love, joy of a God that loves them.

Trouble No More

"Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.  In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.  If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also." -Jesus (John 14:1-3)
 
We had such a wonderful time with our Life Group at our Christmas gathering Sunday night.  As much fun as it was, the ride home was nothing short of a white-knuckle ride."  The light snow dusting in Knoxville had changed into a winter wonderland by the time the party was ending.  Elijah was well past his bed time and hungry and Elliott was being his typical three year old self.  Thankfully we were in Alicia's Honda Pilot which has 4WD, but I must admit that I was pretty nervous driving some of the back roads that were covered in ice and snow. 
 
Amidst the screaming and stressfulness during the the drive home, I made a few seconds to pray for safe passage home.  The Pilot slipped and slid only a few times, but we made it safely home last night as did the rest of our Life Group. 
 
Why does it take something like immediate danger to draw us closer to God on our knees?  Why do we struggle with turning everything over to God that troubles us?  He is waiting and He is patient; you will never face any trouble in your lifetime that is too great for God!!!

Fortress Around Your Heart

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.  (Psalm 62:1-2)


Our youngest, Elijah, fell asleep yesterday during worship service amidst the energetic praise and worship band playing and the congregation clapping and singing.  After service, a friend made the comment that Elijah looked so peaceful asleep in my arms.

The verse from Psalms is a reminder that David knew how to find peace and rest in God alone.  Despite difficult circumstances, David was also able to stand firm on God as his rock and salvation, his fortress that was never shaken.

During this Christmas season, we too can find the peace and much needed rest in God.  Just another gift that comes with the birth of our Savior!

Joy (Third Sunday in Advent)

"Don't be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."  (Luke 2:10-12)


This third Sunday of Advent is one of my favorites.  This week, the candle of Hope will be lit during worship service in churches all over the world.   One aspect of living a full life is experiencing joy.  Joy is more than just being happy; it runs much deeper.  Being joyful lasts more than a few fleeting moments and grows into a lifestyle.  It is possible to be joyful despite any circumstance.  Happiness is only temporary and is typically based on circumstances being favorable or good.

Where the shepherds were several thousand years ago was completely dark.   Like many people, the shepherds were afraid of being in the darkness.  When the angels appeared to them in the field to deliver the good news, they were not only afraid, they were terrified.  But their fear quickly turned to joy as the angels announced the birth of the Messiah.

The shepherds quickly ran to see the baby Jesus and then they spread the word.  This birth brought joy, hope, peace and love to all of mankind.  When we realize a bit of the joy of Christmas it is hard for us not to share it with others, much like the shepherds did.  We give presents, cards, spend time with loved ones, donate to charities, and spread good cheer to those around us.

During this season of Advent and preparing for the birth of Jesus, let's also spread joy to others.

Pretty Paper

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)


Have you ever struggled to find someone the perfect Christmas gift?  There are a few folks in my family that I have the knack for finding the perfect gift; others that I just can't seem to find anything.  I do believe that as petty as it sounds, some people allow the whole process of buying the perfect gift to cause a lot of unnecessary stress during Christmas.

What we have to remember about Christmas is that there is no material item, money or anything on this earth that can substitute for God's presence in our lives.  Mankind needs a Savior and the birth of Christ proclaims God's love for all of us.  The fact that He loves us beyond our wildest dreams is enough to make us praise Him every day.

When you realize that Christmas is about more than just gift giving, you realize that the perfect gift can only come from above....

A Little Help From My Friends

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.  (Philippians 4:13)
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
 
I am blessed with some wonderful friendships; no matter where I have lived over the course of my thirty-six years, God has surrounded me with some special people.  A good friend recently asked for some specific prayer requests for his wife who has recently suffered some severe medical conditions.   Another couple that is near and dear to me asked for prayers with their attempts to be blessed with children.  Another friend has been out work for well over a year and asked me to pray for him to find a job soon.

Prayer requests are something that I take to heart and try hard to remember to do for my family, friends, co-workers, clients and people I don't even know.  It's one thing to say you are going to pray for someone and another to earnestly lift up other's needs before your own.
 
Take it from someone who knows, PRAYER WORKS!! God is always willing to listen and is never too busy for each one of us.   What an awesome God we have that loves each one of us so very much. 

It is encouraging to know that your friends have your back during difficult times. There is better way to stand with and support your friends through prayer.

You Can't Always Get What You Want

Don't be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask Him!  (Matthew 6:8)
 
I shared a laugh with my mother last week as we reminisced about Christmases from my childhood.  I was the type of child that would start devising my Christmas wish list in early January and would continue to drop subtle (and not so subtle) hints to my parents for almost 364 days of the year leading up to Christmas. My mom found it humorous that Toys R Us now has an interactive Christmas wish list available for the iPad and how our son had literally checked off every toy and action figure in the boys section.  I guess the nut doesn't fall too far from the tree.  I can't help but feel like I am hearing how I must have sounded to my parents when asks for a particular toy, and he normally follows up with "but, I need it, Daddy." 
 
God promises to supply all of our needs, but not our wants.  We will never be content if we focus on our wants because we will always want more.  The more we focus on the things that God values, the less we focus on our wants and the more content we become.  
 
If you never feel content, step back and focus on God;  He already knows what you need!

People Get Ready

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.  As is was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man." -Jesus  (Matthew 24:36-37)

I recently read an interesting news article about a new billboard campaign in Nashville, TN that is proclaiming that Jesus is coming again on May 20th, 2011.  WOW!  That's great news, but according to Jesus' words in Matthew, not even He knows for sure the exact time or date of when He is making His triumphant return. So how is a Christian radio network based out Raleigh, NC privy to the details?  Well, to answer my own question, they really don't have a clue.

According to Allison Warden from www.wecanknow.com  the billboards are only meant to serve as a reminder to folks to prepare for what is known as the Rapture.  Certain followers will be raised up to be with Jesus during His return while the ones left behind will have to suffer through terrifying events including earthquakes, floods, and other plagues.  While the whole idea of the Rapture may scare the living daylights out of some, most Believers are eager for the return of Christ to this earth.

I am not a betting man, but if I was, I certainly wouldn't put my money on Jesus returning on May 21st, 2011; then again, I have no idea when He is coming back either.  While I am certain that many people will find the billboard campaign offensive, we can all take the message as sign to "keep watch" until that day does come.  Keeping watch means more than just sitting around and waiting; we need to be active in our faith; we need to proclaim the love of a God to people everywhere.  We need to stay grounded in Scripture and share the "good news" with as many people as we possibly can.

I don't know about you, but I certainly want to be ready...just don't know when that day is going to come, but there is no time like the present to be prepared!

Under Pressure

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.  (Psalm 46:1-3)
 
I really enjoy this time of the year.  It's been particularly nice here in Knoxville, despite being cold, and all of our Christmas decorations are up, lights on many houses, the stores are packed with Christmas shoppers, and people are starting to prepare for the birth of Christ. Some people, find the Christmas season very stressful.  Decorating, buying presents, dealing with family, numerous parties and social functions can cause more tension than normal.
 
No matter what it is that is causing "stress" in your life, God is our rock and refuge during times of anxiety. You can find peace in our loving God's arms.  He is steadfast in always present during times of trouble.  If you are having difficulties during this season, turn over your worries to Him and allow Him to take your burdens. 

Changes

God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.  (Philippians 2:13)


The Holy Spirit is a great gift that we all receive upon accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.  God has slowly been working on me the better part of ten years and I am an ongoing "work in progress."  I often pray that I don't do or say some of the "stupid" things that I have tendencies to do.  I also realize that if I want real change, it's not coming from me; it has to come from above.

God never forces change on us.  When we invite Him into our lives, we also grant Him permission to use His almighty power to change us.  Sometimes, we can also resist His change in our lives, opting to follow our own ambitions rather than following His will.

We must continually "die to self" and let God do the work that will start a transformation in each of us over the course of our lifetime.  You will see dramatic changes when you open your heart to God's plan and allow Him to be the Lord of your life.

 

The Voice (2nd Sunday of Advent)

John the Baptist said, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."  This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of the one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'"  (Matthew 3:1-4)

I was looking at Facebook yesterday morning and several people had made negative posts that they weren't ready for Christmas.  I hate to break the news to all the folks who aren't ready for Christmas, but Jesus is coming whether you are ready or not.  In fact, once you get past the pomp and circumstance that is involved with the Christmas season, the birth of Jesus is actually the best news that you could possibly imagine.  Jesus was not just any baby, He is the Son of God and was born, lived a sinless life while on earth and then died on the cross to save us from certain death.  At the expense of sounding like Linus, "that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

John the Baptist was a prophet full of the Holy Spirit.  He was also a smelly, hairy, and rough wilderness man who ate locust.  His words hit home with many people. But he knew there was a greater power and greater effectiveness than he could ever have. For however much he was inspired by God, he could not send the Spirit into anyone. Could he cause them to put their sins behind them? Or strive to be holy? John could not give them the presence of God; he could only tell them to prepare for the One who could and would give it.

It was John's job to tell of the One to come, the Messiah, the One who would send the Holy Spirit into those he baptized. One whose words and deeds would have even more impact than John's. One who would separate out or winnow the good from the bad, the fruit from the waste materials. One that John knew as friend and family, whom John had already come to respect and highly value, but didn't know as the One. The One was Jesus. Throughout His ministry, and in the early years of the apostles after Jesus' death, Jesus and his followers would keep coming across people who had come to love God through John's work. Some who heeded John's call soon took up their crosses and followed Jesus. But John's call for repentance helps us prepare, too, for John was just trying to get people to do what God wanted, and that's how anyone can be prepared for the presence of Emmanuel, God-with-us.

The Power of ONE

Jesus said, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8)
 
This morning as I reflected on some of my recent conversations with friends, I realized that I was full of anger for some strange reason. I am not angry towards my friends, but I have allowed myself to be enraged by listening to sports talk radio for the majority of this college football season.  It's one thing to listen to predictions about the week's games, but another to let it dominate your every thought and disrupt your overall happiness.  I have always been and always will be more partial to music than talk radio.  When the college football season comes around, I take a little break from listening to music and tune in to listen to what the experts have to say about my favorite team.  The past few weeks have been brutal to stomach and it's similar to how I felt listening to political talk a few years ago during the last presidential election.  For much of the same reason, I was engulfed in political debates with my friends and family and was many times quick to anger and judge.  I have made the conscious effort to turn off the sports talk and get back to listening to music again. 
 
People don't need to hear my slanted opinions and I can't imagine anyone wanting to listen to an angry and rabid fan of any college team.  What this world needs to see and hear from believers is people loving one another, business people working with integrity and honor, and people being at peace with one another and not speaking sharp words.  We all have the power of the One who displayed those qualities regardless of who He was speaking to.  As I mature and grow in my walk of faith, I am coming to terms with realizing that my words and deeds will impact someone much more than quoting Scripture or rehashing a great sermon that I have heard.
 
In order to do so, we must look inward and be more obedient to God's will for our lives.  When I fail to do so, we reject the work of the Holy Spirit and succumb to the ways of the world.

Happy Anniversary

You, Lord, are good and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.  (Psalm 86:5)


It was five years ago today that I stood at the alter and married the woman of my dreams.  A lot has changed for us over the course of our marriage.  We have both been through career changes, we have moved three times (once to a different state), and have been blessed with two wonderful children.  There have been many highs and lows, and while the good times certainly outweigh the bad ones, I have grown closer to Alicia and have come to truly appreciate her companionship and friendship through the years.

One of the biggest keys to success for us has been to keep Christ in the center of our relationship.  Sure, there have been times that neither one of us have been great reflections of Him, but in the grand scheme, we have both leaned on Him and come to rely on His support in our marriage.

When you have a relationship with Christ, you start taking on His characteristics.  It's God who loves us and forgives each of us and saves us by His grace, even when we don't deserve it.  When God forgives, He forgives completely.  When God restores, He restores completely.  And what God loves, He loves completely.

I thank Him for all that He has done, all He is doing and all He will do for me!  I also thank my wife for having the patience and kindness to love me when I know that it's hard to!!!

Fight The Good Fight

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  (2 Timothy 4:6-7)
 
I received a call from a good friend yesterday afternoon who was updating me with the latest breaking news in the Cam Newton investigation.  The NCAA ruled Auburn QB, Cam Newton, eligible to play football in the upcoming SEC Championship stating that he had no knowledge of his father's attempt to solicit cash for his commitment to play at Mississippi State.  For the Auburn family, this was the breaking news we all had hoped to hear and many people breathed a deep sigh of relief.  Auburn's miraculous season has been dogged and overshadowed about rumors of his recruitment at Mississippi State University and it's taken away much of the joy we should be enjoying about being 12-0, playing USCe for a chance to play in the BCS Title game in January. 
 
When Cam hit the field in Tuscaloosa for the Iron Bowl on Friday, the Alabama student section threw handfuls of fake cash at Cam Newton while Steve Miller Band's "Take The Money and Run" blasted over the speakers at Bryant-Denney Stadium.  The media has had a field day with this story and Cam Newton's character has been attacked endlessly in the news and on sports talk radio across the country. 
 
I cannot imagine being scrutinized by the media in the age of Facebook, Twitter, and the Blogosphere like Cam Newton has been.  It's been a true test of his character to hold his composure and to face some of their toughest rivals in UGA and Bama.  Cam stayed strong despite the rumor mill and daily reports of his wrongdoing and is headed to Atlanta this week to play in the SEC Championship game.  
 
As a believer, it's easy for me to find inspiration in this story and as a Christian we must all stand firm, even when we are being attacked.  Fight the good fight and finish the race, while keeping your faith.

Blinded By The Light

You are the light of the world.  A city located on a hill cannot be hidden.  People do not light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  (Matthew 5:14-15)

Fair or not, people who do not yet know or who are not in a relationship with Christ hold Christians to higher standards.  If my lifestyle is drastically different throughout the week than when I walk through the doors of the church, it's only a matter of time before I am discovered to be a fraud and labeled a "hypocrite." 

We just experienced a difficult situation in our marriage when I attempted to purchase SEC Championship tickets from a seller on eBay.  Everything turned out to be a scam and I lost a great sum of money not to mention that my wife was as mad at me as she has ever been in our five years of marriage.  I was convinced that the way we dealt with this situation needed to be different because Christ's light should shine brightly in our marriage despite our circumstances. 

Whether we are with our family, friends, or co-workers, we need to "shine" in such a way that others take notice. When others see us live our lives in service to God, the glory goes to Him and people on the outside begin to be interested in what makes a follower of Christ different.   

We as Believers are here to be a reflection of the Lord that we serve. Regardless of what happens to us in this lifetime, we are to shine brightly like a city on a hill, realizing that we are nothing without God! 

Glad

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad, let the sea roar, and the fullness thereof.  (Psalm 96:11)

As we were looking for the perfect Christmas tree over the weekend, I just couldn't get into the spirit of Christmas for some reason and really wasn't ready to listen to Christmas music as we decorated our home.  I feel that this year has quickly passed by and the month of December is only one day away and so is the whirlwind that ensues this time of the year.  I have since prayed that God would prepare my heart for the birth of our Savior. 

Christmas is about so much more than the beautiful lights and decorations, time with loved ones, wonderful food, parties, and of course, gift giving.  It's a time to reflect on the goodness of God for the birth of our Lord and King!  "Heavens" in the above verse from Psalms 96 refers to the sky, sun, moon, and the stars.  Not to go "Avatar" here, but Christmas is a time that not only all people are to be glad, but everything on this earth; after all, this planet IS God's creation. 

So not only people must say the Lord is great, but the earth, sky and sea must say it as well!!

How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You

Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.  (Jeremiah 17:7)

As a Sunday school leader, the youth often impress me with their questions and today I was asked what exactly "Advent" was.  I didn't get too deep with my answer, but explained that four candles are lit every Sunday leading up to Christmas and then finally, the Christ candle is lit on Christmas day.  With yesterday being the first Sunday in Advent, below is an explanation of what the first candle is symbolic of. 

The First Candle (The Candle of Prophecy/Hope)

The first candle is sometimes called the candle of prophecy because it symbolizes the promises the prophets delivered as messages from God; promises that foretold Christ’s birth. Others consider the candle to be a symbol of the hope we have in Christ and so it is called the Hope candle.

Prophetic Verse: Arise, shine; For you light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people But the Lord will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you. (Isaiah 60: 1-3)

The Fulfillment of Prophecy: ‘Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.” (Matthew 24:44)

Glory be to God in the highest!!!!

He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother

Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble.  Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.  (Isaiah 58:10)


As Christmas quickly approaches, it's hard not to think about people who didn't have money to spend at retail stores early in the wee hours of the morning on Black Friday.  There are so many people in our local community that are living day to day on a street or depending on the warmth and generosity of a shelter for food and their basic needs.

God promises that those who help the needy will be rewarded, both in this life and the next.  God has compassion for the poor and so should His followers.

Helping those less fortunate is not just an obligation, but a privilege that will bring great joy!

I Still Believe (Great Design)

And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour. (Matthew 8:13)

Things looked pretty dismal for the Auburn Tigers during the first half of the 75th Iron Bowl. The Tide looked unstoppable early, and Auburn's explosive offense was regulated to -8 yards of total offense at one point. Was this how the perfect season was to end? The Tide was going to play spoiler and prove all of the talking heads on sports talk correct? Did the pressures of the allegations finally impair Cam Newton's play on the field? What bowl would Auburn go to now?

There were many questions from the Auburn fans that had gathered at the Bucketshop Cafe yesterday to watch the big game. Despite being down, most of the folks I talked to hoped for some adjustments from the coaches during the half. We still held onto our belief and look what happened...the largest comeback in the history of the Iron Bowl and in the history of The Crimson Tide!! To win our biggest game on the road in Tuscaloosa in a come from behind thriller by one point is still almost unbelievable!! War Eagle!

To believe in someone is to put your faith and trust in someone. We easily believe in our favorite teams and athletes, but what about Jesus Christ? Who is He in your life? Do you have enough belief in Him like the centurion in the passage from above? Do you need more proof that He is the risen Saviour and not some raging lunatic?

If you want it, you've got to believe. Just put your faith in God and one day you'll see...

Eye of the Tiger (Iron Bowl Edition)

But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." (Matthew 14:27)

It was a cold and dreary day on November 20th, 2004. The Auburn Tigers headed into Tuscaloosa for the Iron Bowl with a 10-0 record and hopes to keep their perfect season unblemished with a win against their in-state arch rivals, the Alabama Crimson Tide. Before the game began, Joe Nemeith marched into Bryant-Denny stadium and energized the unranked Crimson Tide. They quickly jumped ahead of Auburn, 6-0, with a couple of field goals kicked by Brian Bostick. The No. 2 ranked Tigers came back strong in the second half, starting with the combination of quarterback Jason Campbell and running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams scoring a touchdown. Auburn scored a total of 21 points in the second half to win the game 21-13 and eventually moved on to beat UT in the SEC Championship a few weeks later.

That year, the stakes were high for the Tigers, much like the Iron Bowl that will be played today. As an avid fan, I think I was more fearful that something would happen that day in Tuscaloosa; I feared our season was going to come to a dreadful end with the Tide coming out on top. We all live in fear, and God knows this. There are dozens of passages in the Bible that address living in fear. God knows this and asks us to turn over our fears and to simply trust Him. When we completely trust Him, our faith grows, and He gives us a sense of peace that can only come from above so that we don't live a miserable existence of fear on this earth.

We all have our own fears, but they should never paralyze us because we have a God that is greater than anything we can possibly fear on this earth!!!! War Eagle and Beat Bama!!

Thankful

Give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:20)

As I have grown older, I have come to really appreciate Thanksgiving as one of my favorite holidays. It's not just "Turkey Day" or the eve of "Black Friday" or the day before the Iron Bowl; Thanksgiving is a day to show the people you love gratitude for all that they have done. Giving thanks is a way to celebrate the giver and the gift.

When you give thanks to God, you honor and praise Him for everything He has done-in your life and the lives of others. Adopt the attitude of grattitude so that you can truly enjoy all of God's many blessings and don't forget to give Him thanks in everything!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

God Give Me Strength

Fear the Lord and depart from evil.  It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.  (Proverbs 3:7-8)

On my lunch break the other day, I really wanted to have something "healthy" for lunch, but then a tractor beam pulled my car into the drive-thru "south of the border" and I ended up having Taco Bell. Let me defend this choice by stating that it's hard to turn down a Cheesy Gordita Crunch, especially since they only appear on the Taco Bell menu for a limited time each year, much like the McRib sandwich at McDonald's. I felt somewhat guilty the entire day knowing that I had probably blown through my weekly caloric and fat intake in one meal.

The truth of the matter is God's plan and purpose for us on this earth require us to value our time here on this earth.  To be an effective servant of God, we need to also take care of our bodies as well.  Taking care of our bodies mean that we need to make the proper choice as pertains to eating, we need sleep, and we need to exercise on a regular basis.  If our bodies are God's temple, we need to treat them that way.  I sound like I am preaching, but I am just as guilty for overeating and making poor choices when it comes to eating.  I do try and exercise every day, but I honestly wouldn't have to run as much if I didn't eat so poorly.

When we put God's principles to work in our life, we will live with health and strength!

For What It's Worth

"Woe to the rebellious children," says the Lord, "Who take counsel, but not of Me, and who devise plans, but not of My Spirit"... (Isaiah 30:1-2)

Have you ever made a decision on your own that turned out to be a wrong one?  Sure, we all guilty of this, whether we will publicly admit to it or not.  Have you ever made a decision after seeking the counsel of someone else and still went against the grain and made the wrong decision?  I know that I have and the price can be costly.

Most people are familiar with the story of Adam and Eve.  Eve listened to the serpent and made a fatal decision to eat forbidden fruit from the tree in the garden of Eden.  Most advice comes from people we love and trust, sometimes it comes from co-workers and even outlets like the media that bombard our thoughts different perceptions and philosophies.  It's when we take our eyes off of the Lord that we can often choose to listen to the wrong advice and make costly mistakes.

We have to be cautious of deception and lies in today's world more than ever.  Stay grounded in the Word and let His truth guide you on all your decision making.

Joy

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  (1 Thessalonians 5:16)


It's easy for me to be joyful when good things are happening.  It's when something goes wrong that it requires a great deal of effort.  On Friday, I was on my quest to find tickets to the SEC Championship game in Atlanta, that just happens to fall on our fifth anniversary weekend.  I found a deal that was almost too good to be true-and it was!  Turned out that the so-called deal on tickets was nothing but a scam on eBay.  I am out of almost $1,000 and it now looks like our anniversary weekend is going to consist of us staying at home and watching the game on TV while enjoying a frozen pizza.  I noticed that this huge and foolish mistake had robbed me and my wife of our joy.  We argued, we stressed, we were angry (and still are) at the whole thing.

It was not until Sunday morning that a friend texted me the above verse from Thessalonians.  We had to make the conscious decision to be joyful.  Our joy, prayers, and thankfulness should not fluctuate with our circumstances or feelings.  Obeying these commands often goes against our natural inclinations.

It's when we are following God's will that we can find it easier to be joyful and thankful.

Power of Love

For this reason I remind you to fan into the flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying of hands.  For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.  (2 Timothy 1:6-7)
 
Just like most parents, we experiment with ways to effectively discipline our three-year old son.  Sometimes, we are effective and other times, he is unfazed by our attempts.  I am no professional in child psychology, but it seems that when we use positive reinforcement, Elliott reacts positively.  This morning, Elliott was being extremely difficult and whined a bit more than he usual does.  Let me preface that an extended period of whining seems to elevate the stress level in the Fisher home and it's one heck of a way to begin the morning. 
 
People will rise or fall to meet our level of expectations for them.  If you expect people to let you down, they often will.  The flip side is that if you put trust and belief into others, many times people will often exceed your expectations with being their very best.  Another wonderful side effect of believing in others is that both people will begin to benefit.  It's one of the greatest gifts we can possibly give to another person. 
 
Believing is a quality of God that we often dismiss in the way we treat others.  God believes in each of us enough to believe in us.  Do the same for others. 

You Are Good

Don't be deceived, my dear brothers.  Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.  (James 1:17)

What a cool and crisp fall morning it was today!  The sky was clear and was illuminated by the glowing of many stars.  As the morning quickly changed, the yellow and orange leaves seemed to glow under the sun's light. I couldn't help but stop and give God thanks for His wonderful creation.  (Not to mention this was only the beginning of the day!) As I continued to pray, I took some time to give God thanks for many blessings that He has bestowed upon me.  I am thankful for a wonderful and beautiful family, the great friendships that I have made, our neighborhood, my career, the ability to exercise, etc. "Hey Will...save it, Thanksgiving is next week!"

I will save something for Thanksgiving, but when you humble yourself and marvel at how 'good" God is, it's hard not to be thankful and grateful.  Our life, comes from God, and everything else you can imagine-challenges, opportunities, family, friends, nature, and love.  I sure have come a long way from thinking that God is going to send something bad my way if I, myself, am not good.  God simply doesn't work that way. He is incapable of anything 'bad."  Yes, I realize that bad things happen to good people, but everything that you can imagine being good comes from the Lord above!

The Lifting

Do you not know? Have you not heard?  The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth Does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.  He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.  (Isaiah 40:28-31)

After two full weeks with my wife going back to work and both boys in daycare full time, sleep is a precious commodity in our home.  Now on a lean schedule, I always attempt to multi-task with my iPhone, iPad, Macbook, etc. and do more and more things at the same time, but just end up feeling exhausted.  If you think about it, when we attempt to do anything without God's supernatural power, we can expect the same feelings and weariness.

When we try to do things on our own, we are limited by our own strength and limits. It's when we humble ourselves and depend on the Lord for His strength, that we really can soar on His power.  It's like tapping into a never ending energy source!

Let go and let God lift you up so that you too can soar on the wings of eagles!

Unanswered Prayers

Make me know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day. (Psalm 23:1-3) 

A little less than three years ago, I decided that it was time to make a career change.  I was earning a pretty comfortable living in Atlanta, but felt that I was capable of doing more.  (It's funny how children will change your perspective, isn't it?)  I went through the proper channels and pursued a newly vacated sales position within the organization.  The entire process began and took several months of interviews, tests, and praying before they selected another candidate for the position that they felt was 'better qualified."  Sure, I was disappointed and felt like a failure, but not too long afterwards, God blessed me with an opportunity of a lifetime in Knoxville, TN!

How many times do we pray for things that we really want, but may not necessarily need?  God knows our hearts, and yes, He also knows exactly what we need.  Sometimes He answers prayers after making us wait patiently, some are immediate and some are never answered; they are always in accordance to His perfect will for our lives. 

Trust Him and keep focused on Him; He will give you a clear direction for your life, even if it's not the one you may have chosen!

Spirits In The Material World

You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you.  And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.  But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.  And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.  (Romans 8:9-11) 

I am not sure what is going on lately, but it seems like there is so much negativity everywhere I turn.  Whether it is in the news, neighbors, friends, co-workers, and most recently sports talk/media, people are not living with a sense of peace and life that God gives to each of us when we choose to live in the Spirit.

We all now that our days on this earth are numbered the second we take our first breath.  There is no fountain of youth or time machine DeLoreans that I am aware of, so you can bet that one day you will leave this earth.  The sinful life is on a collision course with death, hostility, insubordination and unacceptability to God.  The latter, life in the Holy Spirit, is in every believer.

We must make sure that we are living our lives in such a manner that the Holy Spirit is in total control; not our selfish flesh lives.  Christians are indwelt by the life-giving Spirit as a result of their justifications.

Broken

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 8-10)


We had just tucked our son into bed for the night and had settled in dowstairs in front of the television when we heard our son crying.  I quickly ran upstairs to check on him to make sure everything was all right and discovered that he was upset because he had broken a toy.  It was easy fix and he was very happy to have his action figure repaired.

How does this relate to matters of faith?  It's simple and part of being sanctified.  You see, when we are self-righteous, we are virtually telling God that it's "My way or the highway."   When we rely on ourselves, we are not following God's will and rejecting the ways of Christ.  We have to let go instead of trying to be fixed.  Brokeness conflicts with what the world tells us we should be. Let go and let God do His part in your life....

Thankful

Giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me.  If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God.  (Psalm 50:23)


This past week I had the honor of taking part in a "Man on the Street" video shoot for my church's upcoming Thanksgiving service.  My assignment was to find several people in downtown Knoxville and ask them what they are thankful for and what it means to express gratitude.  One of the ladies I interviewed said something before the cameras began to roll that caught my attention.  She mentioned that she was listing one thing that she was thankful for each day on facebook for the month of November.  What a great idea...

If you start to be thankful, your attitude changes for the positive as you recognize all of the blessings and provisions God gives us.  The gratitude also keeps you focused on everything God is doing for you instead of the things you lack.

We should take the time to count our blessings and give thanks to God every day!

Forever Young

Jesus said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.  Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child as the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."  (Matthew 18:2-4)


Our three-year old, Elliott, pitched a royal fit yesterday morning before he left the house to go to a birthday party.  The cause of the drama, was that Elliott wanted to bring his "Thomas the Tank Engine" train track to the birthday party at the local bounce house.  Had you witnessed this childish outburst, you would have thought we told Elliott that Santa Claus wasn't planning to stop by our house this Christmas or something worse!  Oh what I would do to deal with the troubles of a three-year old again.

Jesus' words from Matthew were directed to his disciples about being self-centered.  We are not to be childish like his disciples sometimes acted, bickering over petty issues, but childlike-humbled and sincere in our behavior.

I think often about the way our children act with sincerity and humbled hearts.  The adult world sure could use more of it, IMHO!!!

Stand!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:10-14)

I don't even know where to begin with my Blog today.  As an Auburn University Alumni and a college football nut, this has been a dark week for fans of AU and the sport in general.  The allegations over Cameron Newton began over a week ago and almost daily, new twists and turns have been painstakingly revealed.  At the time of writing this, Cam is still set to start for Auburn against UGA this afternoon. (I am still hopeful that all of this turns out to be false, but the reality is that things are not looking good.) The lines between fact and fiction have been blurred and the damage has been done; an extremely talented collegiate athelete's performance and reputation has been forever tarnished by the attacks issued by the media. 

These attacks remind me of the warfare waged on each one of us on a more personal level every day by the enemy.  How are we supposed to defend ourselves against such vicious attacks?  The Word says to to put on the full armor of God and to "stand firm."  We are normally attacked in areas of our lives where we are weak.  If your weakness candy, for instance, is it a strange coincidenece the candy bowl at the office always seems to be full of your favorites?    We must walk hand in hand with Christ to ward off temptations and to "stand firm."  This one area that I am constantly having to turn over to Christ.  You just can't do it alone....

Advice For The Young At Heart

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; Lend your ear to my understanding.  That you may preserve discretion, and your lips may keep knowledge.  (Proverbs 5:1-3)
 
I remember when I was growing up my mother used to warn me repeadily not to touch the stove top, especially while it was hot.  Being young and naive, I did what any child does, I didn't listen to my mother's advice, reached up and touched the hot stove top and burned my hand severely!!  I have noticed the same pattern with my own children and can only imagine how it will be as our youngest grows up. 
 
As an adult, I can give advice all day long, but it's hard to take it and follow it sometimes.  The Bible tells us that the wise do not only give good advice, but they heed it as well.  One of the best places we can only go for advice is the living word found in Scripture.  It's one thing to read scripture, but another thing to apply it in your life. 

Time Won't Let Me

Lord, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days.  That I may know how frail I am.  Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, and my age is nothing before You; certainly every man at his best state is but vapor.  (Psalm 39:4-5)  

As I scheduled an upcoming meeting in January, I couldn't help but come to the realization of how quickly time has flown by this year. In a few weeks we will sit at the table with our family for Thanksgiving, the Iron Bowl will be played the following day and then Christmas will be here before we know it.  Looking back, I feel like have accomplished a lot this year, even this week, but I need to be mindful that may days on this earth are numbered.

David asked God to help him number his days, which should be our prayer more often.  If we don't know where our time goes, that's a dangerous signal that we are not using our time as wisely as we should-according to God's will.  Of course, I am not referring to how much time we spend sitting in a pew or behind the walls of a church, but how often do we utilize our time doing things for other people?

Use your time wisely, because we are not promised tomorrow....

Coconuts

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  Against such there is no law.  (Galatians 5:22-23)

I woke up this morning and went into the kitchen to brew some coffee and a horrid smell came from the trash can.  It was a half of a banana that had been thrown out a few days ago and the smell almost made me pass out becuase it was so bad.  One of the most recognizeable verses from Galations is the verse above regarding the "fruits of the Spirit."  The rotten banana got me thinking-what kind of fruits am I producing from my walk with Christ?

Do I love others regardless?  Am I joyful despite my circumstances?  Am I at peace?  Am I patient in waiting or do I need immediate results?  Am I kind and compassionate to others?  Do I want the best for others?  Am I faithful?  Am I firm but tender?  Am I in control and disciplined?

Looking inward you can tell if you are displaying the above list of qualities.  Ask yourself these questions and look to the Holy Spirit for guidance in your life.

The Voice

I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me, even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father ; and I lay down My life for the sheep. "I have other sheep, which are not of this fold ; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd. (John 10:14-16)

What a great weekend I had taking our oldest son, Elliott, to his first Auburn football game.  Mommy and Elijah stayed home so we could embark on our first "Big Boys Road Trip." Something I noticed over the course of the weekend is that when he would ask me for a toy or the iPod Touch while I was driving the car, and I could not immediately reach the toy he wanted, he would ignore my response and continue to ask for the same toy repeatedly.  It's funny how God rolls, becuase I started to see a lot of myself in my son especially when it comes to me praying and waiting patiently on the Lord to answer in His perfect timing.

We live in a very noisy world-there are many answers often coming from the wrong places.  It's sometimes hard to discern God's quiet voice.  God asks us to simply drown the outside world and all of the "static" that interferes with His voice.

Are you able to be patient and still enough to listen for Him?

An Innocent Man

Therefore I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men.  For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.  (Acts 20:26-27)


The Auburn family and fans of college football were rocked by the allegations surrounding quarterback Cameron Newton this past Thursday.  As the Tigers prepare for the last two regular season games against rivals Georgia and Alabama, "Amen Corner," much of the talk on ESPN and sports talk radio circled around weather Cam Newton was "shopped" illegally to Mississippi State.  I certainly hope that the Heisman hopeful and undefeated QB is proven innocent, but in the public and media's eye, you are often guilty until all of the facts are discovered to prove otherwise.

Have you ever been guilty or falsely accused of something?  Paul was often wrongly accused of many things as he diligently spread the good news of the Gospel, and found himself imprisoned and beaten for his belief.  When we falter and sin, as long as we repent, in God's eyes, we are found innocent.

Are you willing to face the judge and jury for what you believe?  Will you be found innocent or guilty?

Can't Buy Me Love

Just as death and destruction are never satisfied, so human desire is never satisfied.  (Proverbs 27:20)

Just like most people, I enjoy being compensated for the work that I do. I only hope that I am able to provide a comfortable living for my family. What I can't seem to understand is what motivates someone like Donald Trump, who has more money than some countries do, to continue to make even more money. It's not like he's taking any of it with him into the grave! Not that I am jealous, but at what point are you satisfied? I have heard story after story of people who win the lottery and only to lose it all and become worse off than they were before they were rich.

Jesus tells us that if we drink the "living water" we will thurst no more. Regardless of who you are or what your net worth is, Christ is the only way to the riches of heaven promised to us in eternity.

There is nothing wrong with making money, as long as we are willing to use our resources to expand God's Kingdom on earth. The Beatles said it best when they sang the line "Money can buy me lots of things, but money can't buy me love!"

(A Sort Of) Homecoming

"However, the Most High does not live in houses made by men. As the prophet says: 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? Says the Lord. Or where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things?' (Acts 7:48-50)

Our three-year old lit up with excitement when I told him we were planning to go to the Auburn Homecoming game this weekend. My family and friends all live close to Auburn, so naturally I was excited to come home to see everyone as well. Not to mention, today will be Elliott's first Auburn experience!!

The cool thing about God is that we don't have to drive any distance to find Him. You see, He dwells within each of us if we make a "home" for Him. All creation is the temple God himself has made. He is omniscient-His spirit is everywhere at all times and moves through all things.

Praise His name!!!!

Don't Stop Believin'

"Everything is possible for him who believes." -Jesus "I do believe; help me overcome my belief!" (Mark 9:23-24)


Just like most people, my faith can sometimes falter and it's normally my disbelief that is the root cause.  I like to rationalize things through in my mind; it's impossible because faith often requires us to defy our human reasoning.  Look at the obvious for believers-we believe in a God that loved us enough to come to the earth and live a sinless, spotless and blameless life which He selflessly gave up for us on a cross to save us from certain death.  Sounds a little far-fetched, right?  It's called faith-believing in someone that we know exists, but cannot be seen.

When our faith wavers, we miss out on all of the joy and blessings that God has in store for us.  We must turn to God and ask Him to strengthen our faith when we feel it is weak.  Jesus didn't mean that anything is possible if we believe, because nothing is too difficult for God to accomplish.

If you feel your disbelief and doubt is causing you to miss out on all of the blessings God has promised, ask Him to help you believe.

Riding The Storm Out

Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.  (Psalm 37:5)


I don't what it is, but crazy stuff seems to happen to me at work on Mondays and Wednesdays.  Yesterday was no exception as I had a difficult situation arise that I really didn't want to face, quite honestly.  No, this was not "the situation" as in the chiseled abs guy from that horrid reality show, but one that could have cost me the business of a client that I had worked hard to write earlier this year.  I had lifted the problem up to God in my prayers and every solution or idea that I had to resolve the problem ended up being a dead-end. Regardless, I dealt with the problem and reached out to God in the midst of a storm.

I am convinced that God sometimes requires us to wait patiently before He sends His blessings.  Just like the disciples on the boat during the storm in the Sea of Galilee, Jesus eventually calmed the storm and commanded the waves to be still.

The lesson Jesus taught His disciples that night was to be still, trust Him despite being in the middle of a storm.  I believe He asks the same of us when we are faced with trials and tribulations of our own.

These Days

Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save.  When their sprit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.  (Psalm 146:3)


Well, it's the day after the mid-term elections and hopefully we can go another few months before we are inundated with more political ads for the next campaign season.  One of my favorite slogans from the past 2008 presidential election was "Got Hope."  People put their hope endlessly into a politician and most have already been sadly disappointed.

The psalmist portrays man as an inadequate savior, and a false hope, no matter what affiliation or campaign promise someone makes.  God is hope and the help of the needy.  Jesus doesn't separate the social and spiritual needs of people, but attends to both.

While God, not the government, is the hope we need, we are His instruments to help here on earth.  Put your hope in the One who can deliver...
  

Dreams

Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure, for my heart rejoiced in all my labor; and this was my reward from all my labor. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done and on the labor in which I had toiled; and indeed all there was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11)

Is the American dream not to do your very best and surpass the success of your parents? I feel like I have tried to do my very best professionally, but life in sales is rewarding when it is going well and stressful when you are not selling. I could attend many after-hours events to socialize with potential clients and customers, but I would be missing out on time spent with family. Is it a paradox to be a great salesman and Christian at the same time?

Solomon, the wise king of Israel, wrote the words above when he reached the highest level of success because he still felt empty. What is it that you are focused on? Is it the things in life the world tells you to pursue or is it the things in life that really matter?

I have heard this before and the same holds true for what we focus on: if you chase two rabbits at the same time, both will escape.

Focus on the things that will reap Heavenly rewards and be blessed in this lifetime and the next.

It's The End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)

Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be?  You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming...but keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.  (2 Peter 3:11-13)


As I was preparing to lead Sunday School this past weekend, I Googled the phrase "the end of the world" and found several websites dedicated to this coming event.  Most of the websites based this fact on the end of the Mayan calendar which means the world will come to an end on December 21, 2012.  I don't think that we should be too concerned with that date, after all, people have been trying to predict end times for thousands of years; all of them have been wrong.

The Bible gives us a prophecy that we can rely on; Jesus will come back to judge this earth.  The thing is that we don't have any idea of when that is going to take place.  Since we don't have any clue as to when this will take place, it's important for us to live each and every day like it will be our last.

Christ's second coming will be a sudden and terrible surprise for those who do not believe in Him.  For those of us that do believe, it will be a great and glorious event!!!

It's A Miracle

Jesus said to him (the invalid), "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.  (John 5:8 NIV)


After 35 years, diabetes has been a way of life for one of my closest friends, Kelly Williams.  Two years ago, Kelly had a kidney and pancreas transplant that was nothing short of a miracle.  Without a doubt, the transplant saved her life.  Despite several trips to Emory hospital in Atlanta, doctors visits, medications, numerous surgeries, medical bills I can not begin to fathom, and many, many prayers, her outlook is still positive and her faith in God is unshakable.

No matter how trapped you feel in your infirmities, God can minister to your deepest needs.  The key to survival and positive living is not letting problems or hardship cause your hope to fade away.   God may have special work for you to do in spite of any medical condition, or even because of it.

Kelly's hope and faith in God has ministered to me because I have been able to see her stand triumphant over her own hurts!! Praise His name!!

Season of the Witch

I have come that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.  (John 10:10)


I am a firm believer in the fact that just like the weather, we have different seasons in our life.  Certain times, I feel close to God; other times He seems to be further away(mostly because of me, but that's for another day.)  There are weeks that things typically go my way and other weeks where I feel like I can't catch a break. Regardless of what season we are in, we can live with the assurance that Christ is always with us.

We can deal with all troubles that we encounter knowing that with God by our sides, we can overcome and triumph in any situation.  Sickness and troubles are for a reason and season.  Jesus' life was for a reason and season as well.

His death and resurrection should give all believers hope no matter what season they find themselves in!

Money Talks

Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.  (Proverbs 11:24)


Something that always boggled me when I worked as a youth minister was tithing-giving 10% of your income to the church.   The members of the congregation that did not have much, often gave well above their means while many of the wealthy often gave very little.

What is the point of our life on earth?  Is it to just work and make as much money as possible or is there something more? The verse from Proverbs presents a paradox-the more we give, the richer we become.  When we give, God supplies us with even more so that we can give more.  Giving helps to keep us grounded and gives us the proper perspective on our possessions.

Generosity is the opposite of greed; God promises the more you give, the more you receive.

You Wear It Well

We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.  (Ephesians 2:10)


I can't help but notice "the dudes"at the gym, hopped up on protein shakes and supplements that enjoy admiring themselves in the mirror when I go to workout.  It's almost humorous, but the same guys are the ones that always seem to cut me off when I am waiting on some exercise equipment to open up.

We have a multibillion dollar clothing industry in the US and most people are obsessed with their outward appearance.  Don't get me wrong, I have battled weight loss and work out daily to look and feel my best.  Unfortunately, there are many people that are consumed with their image instead of what really counts-what's on the inside.  We try to earn approval from everyone except God...

Our heavenly Father's opinion of us is truly the only one that matters.  If He approves of us, that's all the approval we need, regardless of how the world sees it.

We are created in His image and we are all works of art in His eyes.

Working With Fire and Steel

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.  (Proverbs  27:17)


A great football/basketball coach will hire the very best assistant coaches and staff to ensure victories on the field/court.  A successful manager will hire the best support staff and to ensure success in business.  Some of the most influential people in my life are good friends and mentors that I can learn and gain wisdom from.

There is a mental sharpness that comes from being around good people.  A meeting of the minds can help people see their ideas from a different perspective, which helps refine them and shape them into brilliant insights.  This requires partners that will not only discuss ideas, but partners that challenge and stimulate thought.

People often make the mistake of attacking the thinker because of ego, but what is really needed are "friends" that will stimulate and attack the thoughts, resulting in sharper and more vibrant ideas.

Pour Out Your Favor

You have made him but a little lower than God, and You have crowned him with glory and honor.  You made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet.  (Psalm 8:5-6)

Have you ever faced a situation where you visually saw yourself losing or failing?  For instance, a few years ago, I interviewed for a sales position that I just knew I wasn't going to be hired for.  Guess what, I wasn't hired for that position.  Where there some circumstances beyond my control?  Sure.  Did I live with hope and confidence that I was the top candidate for the position? Absolutely not.

The Lord offers us all gifts that many of us never receive, simply because of our lack of faith and belief in His ability to give us favor in all circumstances.  When we don't trust Him, we take matters into our own hands and that's when we live with the false sense of hope that we can actually do things on our own accord.

Live in confidence knowing that there is NO circumstance in His will that He will not give you His favor to succeed!

Glory (AUburn Edition)

All glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.  (Ephesians 3:20)


I remember Auburn's undefeated 2004 season like it was yesterday.  We had some impressive players, Jason Campbell, Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams.  The Auburn nation was disappointed when the Tigers were left out of the BCS Championship game and were selected to face Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl instead.  The second BCS standings were released on Sunday and for the first time in BCS history, Auburn is #1.  Please don't take this as gloating; we have a lot of football to be played before the end of the season; Ole Miss, Georgia, and don't forget a dangerous Iron Bowl in Tuscaloosa.

I wanted to write about Auburn because even after we won a tough game against LSU and OU was defeated by Mizzou, I really didn't expect my beloved Tigers to earn the #1 spot in the BCS standings.  After all, Oregon is still unbeaten and destroying most of their opponents with an explosive offense.  Why am I selling Auburn short?  We have beaten 4 teams in the top 25, we are putting up ridiculous yardage on our opponents and we have a legitimate Heisman contender in Cam Newton.

Aren't we a little like this with God?  Most of us hope too little in God and expect too little from Him.  If you remind yourself all of the many blessings He has provided in the past, there is no other choice but to expect Him to continue to bless you more abundantly in the present and the future.

Rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  (Philippians 4:4)


Would you be able to praise God and rejoice even if you were imprisoned?  Not only does it seem strange, but Paul teaches us that our inner attitudes do not have to reflect our outward circumstances.  Why do so many people use social media outlets as a place to spew negativity?

It's easy to be discouraged when things aren't going the way you planned.  True joy is knowing that Christ is dwelling within us at all times.  If you have been unpleasant lately, maybe it's time to do some soul searching and taking another look at life with a different perspective.

Beautiful Letdown

Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dearest friends!  (Philippians 4:1)


"I don't belong here" are the lyrics from the Switchfoot song "The Beautiful Letdown" that often resonate with me when I feel like a stranger in a strange land.  There are too many things out of my power to control that I have come to realize that Christ is the One who has everything under His control.

The apostle Paul teaches us to  keep our focus on and our eyes on Christ.  We also need to remember that this world is not our final destination, but just a short stop before eternity.  We "stand firm" by not only keeping our minds fixed upon Christ, but allowing Him to be the Savior of our lives.

Praise His holy name!