Yesterday my brother and I were playing disc golf together on a brand new course out here in the mountains. On one particular hole the tee box was elevated and we were throwng down hill through a heavily wooded area. I threw a side-arm shot and I tried to pay attention to where it landed. We made our way down from the tee box to go and find our discs. We looked and looked and looked some more and simply could not find my disc. After a considerable time my brother decided to go back to the tee box above and get his bearings. Once he got up there he realized that we were way left of the area I had thrown towards. He motioned for me to move about 50 feet to the right into a whole other section and within seconds I found the disc with no problem.
Sometimes our lives are like that. We get stuck in our own little rut and can't seem to find the answer we're looking for. We try and try and try but continue to come up short. We need to go up to higher ground and see the situation from God's point of view. We need God's perspective like it says in Isaiah 55,
'6 Seek the LORD while He may be found ; Call upon Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts ; And let him return to the LORD, And He will have compassion on him, And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. 8 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD. 9 "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts." So if you are stuck in a rut or banging your head against a wall today regarding a certain area of your life, go to the Lord in prayer and seek His perspective. Draw near to listen to Him and trust Him today and take heart in knowing that He sees more fully than you or I can and His ways and thoughts are higher than ours.
in Christ,
Brian
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Community: Friends, Comrades, Amigos, Amis.
This short blog will make more sense if you know a bit of my recent past. I graduated high school in the area and, shortly after, moved to Houston to attend college. I took classes and learned life lessons for 2 years before moving back to The Woodlands area and receiving my Texas Esthetic License.
Rewind: High school was great, lots of friends and lots of group activities. College was a new experience because I went to a college where I had absolutely no friends going with me. It was a surprising, fun, and eye opening adventure with great friends along the way.
Suddenly I move back up to this area and all of my friends from high school are still off at their respective institutions of higher learning as well as my college friends being busy with classes in Houston.
I'm left searching, yet again, for new friends. A new group that I can celebrate with and confide in.
Somewhere between then and now I look around and suddenly see myself surrounded by friends and confidants.
God does not desire for us to be alone and He always provides for us. He provides for us in trials and in the seemingly petty moments and He allows us to be surrounded by fellow believers to laugh with us, cry with us, celebrate with us, to pray with and for us, and to offer advice and support.
Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for the labor:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
Proverbs 11: 14
For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
Our memory verse for this week is one that Joe shared just yesterday in his devotional.
Ephesians 3: 20-21
20 Now unto him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Surrounded by wonderful friends in Christ!
Hailey
Rewind: High school was great, lots of friends and lots of group activities. College was a new experience because I went to a college where I had absolutely no friends going with me. It was a surprising, fun, and eye opening adventure with great friends along the way.
Suddenly I move back up to this area and all of my friends from high school are still off at their respective institutions of higher learning as well as my college friends being busy with classes in Houston.
I'm left searching, yet again, for new friends. A new group that I can celebrate with and confide in.
Somewhere between then and now I look around and suddenly see myself surrounded by friends and confidants.
God does not desire for us to be alone and He always provides for us. He provides for us in trials and in the seemingly petty moments and He allows us to be surrounded by fellow believers to laugh with us, cry with us, celebrate with us, to pray with and for us, and to offer advice and support.
Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for the labor:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
Proverbs 11: 14
For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
Our memory verse for this week is one that Joe shared just yesterday in his devotional.
Ephesians 3: 20-21
20 Now unto him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Surrounded by wonderful friends in Christ!
Hailey
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
God Is Big.
Our son Peter just came back from Africa.
He and Daniel Werner, his StoneBridge childhood friend, spent a week together in Zambia at Camp Life.
Both served as ambassadors and sponsors for 10 zambian orphans boys, 20 boys between them.
It was a camp with 1000 orphans and 100 American sponsor/counselors.
They worked along side 2 Zambian partners to give the Zambian boys the best week of their lives and to share the gospel with them.
Of Peter's 10 boys two already knew Jesus, but by the end of the week all professed Jesus as Lord. And these boys now know they have a Father who loves them and calls them His own.
Peter has been telling me and others about his trip. It was the best week of his life as well. But everytime I hear him speak of all that happened, one phrase stands out.........GOD IS BIG!!!! He always starts his story with....God is Big.
Peter left his home, his hometown, his home church and traveled 22 hrs by plane and found out that God was big.
That God was at work. In Lusaka, Africa.
In the lives of a thousand children.
And over the 7 weeks of camp over 7000 children's lives will be changed.
700 American sponsors/counselors will never be the same.
Lusaka will never be the same.
Did God grow. No. He was always beyond measure.
But for Peter He did. God expanded in Peter's heart and mind and faith.
And because StoneBridge sent 2 young missionaries, (with 20 total from StoneBridge going to Zambia this Summer, and many others going to Honduras, and Haiti and Denver) their and our understanding of who God is got bigger.
Sometimes I need to look outside myself,
give myself to sharing the gospel
and meeting the needs of others
to more fully experience the bigness of God.
Here's to living large.
Here's to serving a Big, Big, God,
Joe
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen
He and Daniel Werner, his StoneBridge childhood friend, spent a week together in Zambia at Camp Life.
Both served as ambassadors and sponsors for 10 zambian orphans boys, 20 boys between them.
It was a camp with 1000 orphans and 100 American sponsor/counselors.
They worked along side 2 Zambian partners to give the Zambian boys the best week of their lives and to share the gospel with them.
Of Peter's 10 boys two already knew Jesus, but by the end of the week all professed Jesus as Lord. And these boys now know they have a Father who loves them and calls them His own.
Peter has been telling me and others about his trip. It was the best week of his life as well. But everytime I hear him speak of all that happened, one phrase stands out.........GOD IS BIG!!!! He always starts his story with....God is Big.
Peter left his home, his hometown, his home church and traveled 22 hrs by plane and found out that God was big.
That God was at work. In Lusaka, Africa.
In the lives of a thousand children.
And over the 7 weeks of camp over 7000 children's lives will be changed.
700 American sponsors/counselors will never be the same.
Lusaka will never be the same.
Did God grow. No. He was always beyond measure.
But for Peter He did. God expanded in Peter's heart and mind and faith.
And because StoneBridge sent 2 young missionaries, (with 20 total from StoneBridge going to Zambia this Summer, and many others going to Honduras, and Haiti and Denver) their and our understanding of who God is got bigger.
Sometimes I need to look outside myself,
give myself to sharing the gospel
and meeting the needs of others
to more fully experience the bigness of God.
Here's to living large.
Here's to serving a Big, Big, God,
Joe
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
The Mountains On The Horizon.
Last night we arrived at our vacation destination in Ruidoso, New Mexico. It's a beautiful little alpine mountain community full of blue spurce and pines, no humidity and cool temperatures in the evening and mild temperatures during the day. Boy did it take a long time to get here though. I mean Texas is HUGE! There is no way Texas should be a state, it is definitely worthy of being considered a country if not purely by its size. Our last 2 hours of the marathon drive were interesting. I remember driving through Southern New Mexico and looking out my window and seeing flat arid desert with scarce vegetation and 103 degree temperatures. We were getting worn out from the drive, the kids were getting antsy and it was kind of tempting just to stop and set up camp. Then I remember looking out on the horizon and seeing this huge beautiful mountain way off in the distance. Seeing that mountain filled me with a new hope that there truly was a much better place beyond this arid desert waiting for us.
I ran across this little writing by Jim Welch that says:
'There is a way that seems right but it leads to destruction. There is a way that goes against the grain of human thought and endeavor, yet it is the way that leads to everlasting life and salvation. Brethren, if we were of the world then the world would receive us. But because we are not of this world the world cannot understand our ways let alone receive us. This world is not our home. We are citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. We are just pilgrims passing through this world on our way to the promised land. We are sojourners and strangers in a foreign land. We do not belong to any religion agreed upon by men, but instead we belong to God. If we belong to God then we should obey His voice.'
I like that line where it says 'we are just pilgrims passing through this world on our way to the promised land.' That's how it describes the heros of the faith who have gone before us in Hebrews 11 who were 'desiring a better counrty, that is, a heavenly one.' So when our lives feel like that arid miserable desert remember that we are not to our destination yet and that we have to first pass through a broken and sinful world where we get to hold out the message of life to fellow travelers in the hope that more and more will not settle for the desert but will join us and head for the mountains.
in Christ,
Brian
I ran across this little writing by Jim Welch that says:
'There is a way that seems right but it leads to destruction. There is a way that goes against the grain of human thought and endeavor, yet it is the way that leads to everlasting life and salvation. Brethren, if we were of the world then the world would receive us. But because we are not of this world the world cannot understand our ways let alone receive us. This world is not our home. We are citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. We are just pilgrims passing through this world on our way to the promised land. We are sojourners and strangers in a foreign land. We do not belong to any religion agreed upon by men, but instead we belong to God. If we belong to God then we should obey His voice.'
I like that line where it says 'we are just pilgrims passing through this world on our way to the promised land.' That's how it describes the heros of the faith who have gone before us in Hebrews 11 who were 'desiring a better counrty, that is, a heavenly one.' So when our lives feel like that arid miserable desert remember that we are not to our destination yet and that we have to first pass through a broken and sinful world where we get to hold out the message of life to fellow travelers in the hope that more and more will not settle for the desert but will join us and head for the mountains.
in Christ,
Brian
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Someone Stepped In.
Guest Blog from Zambia. You can follow this blog regularly at crownsofbeauty.blogspot.com
crowns of beauty (isaiah 61)
responding to His call on my life to bestow upon the children of zambia crowns of beauty...
someone stepped in.
She stands a little taller.
She smiles a lot bigger.
She hugs a lot harder.
She trusts a lot more.
She babbles constantly.
She laughs always.
She sings loud.
She dances through her days.
This hasn't always been the case:
(August 25, 2011)
Six months ago, she was plagued with sickness.
Six months ago, she hardly smiled.
Six months ago, hugs were hard to come by.
Six months ago, she trusted no one.
Six months ago, only cries escaped her mouth.
Six months ago, she knew no laughter.
Six months ago, she found no reason to sing.
Six months ago, nothing was worthy of dancing.
(February 25, 2012)
The "Great I Am" -- The one who makes demons shutter and flea; the Majestic King- the Worthy Lamb; the Keeper of All Promises-- He stepped in.
He intervened.
He set her apart, ever faithful to his Word.
Justice came.
This motherless child and this childless woman, now celebrate family.
It must be known-- she's no orphan anymore!
Joy explodes out of her.
Love bleeds from her heart.
Compassion fills her tender spirit.
Redemption is written across her forehead.
Restoration manifests heavily in her life.
"Hallelujah" rolls off her little lips- and freedom marks every hour.
Innocence is new, no chains hold her back.
Oppression ceases.
Someone stepped in.
This is my daughter. The one whom I love.
Though today marks a special day, in reality- it is just another. It's just another day I get to stand back in awe-- witnessing this miracle. My heart stands humbled before the Lord today.
Jesus, I am forever indebted to you for entrusting me with this child.
crowns of beauty (isaiah 61)
responding to His call on my life to bestow upon the children of zambia crowns of beauty...
someone stepped in.
She stands a little taller.
She smiles a lot bigger.
She hugs a lot harder.
She trusts a lot more.
She babbles constantly.
She laughs always.
She sings loud.
She dances through her days.
This hasn't always been the case:
(August 25, 2011)
Six months ago, she was plagued with sickness.
Six months ago, she hardly smiled.
Six months ago, hugs were hard to come by.
Six months ago, she trusted no one.
Six months ago, only cries escaped her mouth.
Six months ago, she knew no laughter.
Six months ago, she found no reason to sing.
Six months ago, nothing was worthy of dancing.
(February 25, 2012)
The "Great I Am" -- The one who makes demons shutter and flea; the Majestic King- the Worthy Lamb; the Keeper of All Promises-- He stepped in.
He intervened.
He set her apart, ever faithful to his Word.
Justice came.
This motherless child and this childless woman, now celebrate family.
It must be known-- she's no orphan anymore!
Joy explodes out of her.
Love bleeds from her heart.
Compassion fills her tender spirit.
Redemption is written across her forehead.
Restoration manifests heavily in her life.
"Hallelujah" rolls off her little lips- and freedom marks every hour.
Innocence is new, no chains hold her back.
Oppression ceases.
Someone stepped in.
This is my daughter. The one whom I love.
Though today marks a special day, in reality- it is just another. It's just another day I get to stand back in awe-- witnessing this miracle. My heart stands humbled before the Lord today.
Jesus, I am forever indebted to you for entrusting me with this child.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
We The People.
Summer is in full swing as evident by the hordes of children running around StoneBridge these past couple weeks. This week I’ve been helping out with the kids music camp as they present a patriotic musical called, “We the People”. For about 3 hours every day this week the kids have been dutifully showed up to learn songs and lines, practicing harmonies, motions, and counter melodies. Talk about some smart kids!
They sound great and have such enthusiasm as they express the five character qualities we are focusing on this week: Compassion, Kindness, Humility, Gentleness and Patience.
Kids have such unbridled enthusiasm about everything they do: sports, music, God. They have the ability to put their all into something and not care about what others may think.
Sometimes we, as adults, could learn a little something from children.
Matthew 19:14
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heavens belongs to such as these.”
I encourage anyone who is able to come out and support this fantastic group of children this Friday at 7pm as they present their musical that they are working on so diligently.
This week’s memory verse is
Hebrews 12: 28-29
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for out God is a consuming fire.
Hailey
They sound great and have such enthusiasm as they express the five character qualities we are focusing on this week: Compassion, Kindness, Humility, Gentleness and Patience.
Kids have such unbridled enthusiasm about everything they do: sports, music, God. They have the ability to put their all into something and not care about what others may think.
Sometimes we, as adults, could learn a little something from children.
Matthew 19:14
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heavens belongs to such as these.”
I encourage anyone who is able to come out and support this fantastic group of children this Friday at 7pm as they present their musical that they are working on so diligently.
This week’s memory verse is
Hebrews 12: 28-29
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for out God is a consuming fire.
Hailey
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
We're on vacation so this will be short and sweet!!!
It's been a great year.
I am greatly blessed by our church family at StoneBridge.
Jane has had a phenomenal year teaching choir at Marshall middle school-inside the loop.
Our youngest son just finished his freshman year in college,
and to top it all off, we became grandparents.
We are so blessed. And we are both exhausted.
I thought Jesus said my yoke is easy.....
Well.....He did, and I believe it.
So WHAT does that look like?
Well in Mark 6:31 look what happens and listen to what Jesus tells us.
"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Oh I get it. (I'm a little slow sometimes). We have to spend time by ourselves with Jesus in a quiet place to find rest.
Matthew 11:29-30
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
So we must yoke (co-labor) ourselves to Jesus,
(not do everything in our own strength)
Learn from Jesus.
Becoming gentle and humble, (bridled passion and strength)
And THEN we will find rest.
So there IS hope for me after all.
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
With hope in the Lord,
Joe
I am greatly blessed by our church family at StoneBridge.
Jane has had a phenomenal year teaching choir at Marshall middle school-inside the loop.
Our youngest son just finished his freshman year in college,
and to top it all off, we became grandparents.
We are so blessed. And we are both exhausted.
I thought Jesus said my yoke is easy.....
Well.....He did, and I believe it.
So WHAT does that look like?
Well in Mark 6:31 look what happens and listen to what Jesus tells us.
"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Oh I get it. (I'm a little slow sometimes). We have to spend time by ourselves with Jesus in a quiet place to find rest.
Matthew 11:29-30
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
So we must yoke (co-labor) ourselves to Jesus,
(not do everything in our own strength)
Learn from Jesus.
Becoming gentle and humble, (bridled passion and strength)
And THEN we will find rest.
So there IS hope for me after all.
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
With hope in the Lord,
Joe
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
One Messed Up Fishing Trip.
So on Father's Day afternoon I decided to take my kids (Emily - 8 and Joshua - 6) on a little fishing expedition at the little lake in my neighborhood. I grabbed our red wagon, opened up some new poles I had just gotten from Academy, threw in some camp chairs, and we headed out. On the way my neighbor grabbed us some night crawlers...so we were in business. We arrived at our destination and we set up fishing camp. At this point it all fell apart....Joshua was informing me that he didn't like fishing, One of the fishing poles was completely broken, I couldn't find any bobbers, and one of the two poles that worked managed to get tangled into a mammoth rat's nest. Miraculously in the midst of this complete abismal failure we managed to catch one fish. Our one little pathetic fish was unable to be located at first as he was completely engulfed in pond slime. After peeling off the slime we finally confirmed that it was indeed a fish.
I have to admit as I was walking away from the lake that day with broken poles and broken pride, I was wrestling with alot of frustration. I mean if I were getting a grade for my fishing ability it was definitely an automatic 'F'. What was amazing, though, was that not all was lost. I started to realize that on the way home my kids were talking to me, asking questions, and opening up with me in a deeper way than they usually do. Incredibly they hadn't written me off for my lack of fishing exellence, but were actually bonding with me simply because we were spending time together. I love this simple little verse in 1 Thessalonians 2 that says '8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.' I love that because it reminds me that if you really care about someone and you want them to know God, you won't just share words with them, but you are willing to share your life with them, no matter how goofy and 'off the wall' that life may be.
in Christ,
Brian
I have to admit as I was walking away from the lake that day with broken poles and broken pride, I was wrestling with alot of frustration. I mean if I were getting a grade for my fishing ability it was definitely an automatic 'F'. What was amazing, though, was that not all was lost. I started to realize that on the way home my kids were talking to me, asking questions, and opening up with me in a deeper way than they usually do. Incredibly they hadn't written me off for my lack of fishing exellence, but were actually bonding with me simply because we were spending time together. I love this simple little verse in 1 Thessalonians 2 that says '8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.' I love that because it reminds me that if you really care about someone and you want them to know God, you won't just share words with them, but you are willing to share your life with them, no matter how goofy and 'off the wall' that life may be.
in Christ,
Brian
Monday, June 18, 2012
Summertime, Sprints & Growing Spiritually.
Andy Savage (guest blog) www.andysavage.net
I ran sprints today. Ugh. I hate running. Running is one of my fitness weaknesses. After my sprints, I was hunched over "sucking wind." I've got to get in better shape!
I've found that many people feel this way in their spiritual fitness. With the best of intentions, you open your Bible, and after a whopping 3 minutes, you feel out of breath and wondering what you just read. This happens to the best of us. Getting out of shape spiritually happens the same way it does physically…neglect.
Don't get me wrong, the spiritual disciplines of Bible-reading, prayer, etc. are never the end in itself; spiritual disciplines should always be focused on fostering a dynamic relationship with God. It's easy to slip in the mode of "going through the motions" and losing the meaning.
However, these disciplines require some work to develop. Just like I can't just go run a marathon, you may not be able to benefit from long hours of prayer or Bible-reading. But you can take a step; you can start.
This summer offers you a fresh opportunity to "get in shape" spiritually. Start or restart the Priority Time Challenge. Take a few minutes each day then go a little more each week.
I believe if you are genuinely seeking a fresh renewal in your relationship with God, you can find it.
Remember these tips:
1. Spiritual disciplines are tools and nothing to take pride in. You don't become a "good Christian" by reading your Bible or praying. There is only one grade of Christian- those saved by grace alone in Christ alone!
2. Get a partner. Running sprints and reading the Bible are both strengthened by a good friend to encourage you along the way.
3. Write. I'm a big fan of journaling because it gives me a tangible way to interact with God. Write down your prayers, things you are thinking about or new insights from God's word. If you just hate the idea of journaling, go somewhere that you can be comfortable enough to talk out loud. There is an undeniable connection between our memory and our hands/writing and our mouths/speaking respectively.
My prayer is for you to experience God in a real and fresh way this summer. And leave your comments here as you progress!
Follow Andy on Google+, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter @makesense
Joe McKinney
Pastor of Creative Arts
StoneBridge Church
I ran sprints today. Ugh. I hate running. Running is one of my fitness weaknesses. After my sprints, I was hunched over "sucking wind." I've got to get in better shape!
I've found that many people feel this way in their spiritual fitness. With the best of intentions, you open your Bible, and after a whopping 3 minutes, you feel out of breath and wondering what you just read. This happens to the best of us. Getting out of shape spiritually happens the same way it does physically…neglect.
Don't get me wrong, the spiritual disciplines of Bible-reading, prayer, etc. are never the end in itself; spiritual disciplines should always be focused on fostering a dynamic relationship with God. It's easy to slip in the mode of "going through the motions" and losing the meaning.
However, these disciplines require some work to develop. Just like I can't just go run a marathon, you may not be able to benefit from long hours of prayer or Bible-reading. But you can take a step; you can start.
This summer offers you a fresh opportunity to "get in shape" spiritually. Start or restart the Priority Time Challenge. Take a few minutes each day then go a little more each week.
I believe if you are genuinely seeking a fresh renewal in your relationship with God, you can find it.
Remember these tips:
1. Spiritual disciplines are tools and nothing to take pride in. You don't become a "good Christian" by reading your Bible or praying. There is only one grade of Christian- those saved by grace alone in Christ alone!
2. Get a partner. Running sprints and reading the Bible are both strengthened by a good friend to encourage you along the way.
3. Write. I'm a big fan of journaling because it gives me a tangible way to interact with God. Write down your prayers, things you are thinking about or new insights from God's word. If you just hate the idea of journaling, go somewhere that you can be comfortable enough to talk out loud. There is an undeniable connection between our memory and our hands/writing and our mouths/speaking respectively.
My prayer is for you to experience God in a real and fresh way this summer. And leave your comments here as you progress!
Follow Andy on Google+, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter @makesense
Joe McKinney
Pastor of Creative Arts
StoneBridge Church
Friday, June 15, 2012
Lead Me.
This Sunday I will be introducing a song written by Matt Hammit of Sanctus Real called 'Lead Me.' As a husband and a Dad it's a challenging song to have to listen to and learn because it's so personal. As Steve often says, 'it's not powerful until it's personal.' As guys we can have great success in our hobbies, career, goals, etc but if we are dropping the ball in our marriage and parenting it will eventually catch up to us and wreck our lives. This song comes out of the world of a young family, married 9 years, 2 kids and a third on the way. Matt was touring and on the road all the time, 'chasing dreams', and yet failing to lead his wife and kids like they were crying out to be led.
He shared that 'handling conflict' was the number one issue that they were failing at. They tried sweeping things under the rug and hoping they would eventually resolve themselves, but as you know things left undealt with don't get any better but actually get worse and worse. He finally realized that he was going to have to have some painful conversations and make some lifestyle changes and no longer ignore some issues. This resonates with me as I definitely run from conflict. I know for me I have to resist being passive and actively lead my family. As it says in Ephesians 4, I have to speak the truth in love with my wife and kids and hear the truth in love from my wife and kids. Today they need me to lead them. Below are the lyrics to the song and a video of Matt and his wife sharing about their story.
in Christ,
Brian
Lead Me
I look around and see my wonderful life
Almost perfect from the outside
In picture frames, I see my beautiful wife
Always smiling, but on the inside
Oh, I can hear her saying
Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, but what about us?
Show me you're willing to fight
That I'm still the love of your life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone
I see their faces, look in their innocent eyes
They're just children from the outside
I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine
They're independent, but on the inside I can hear them saying
So Father, give me the strength
To be everything I'm called to be
Oh Father, show me the way
To lead them
Won't You lead me?
Father, lead me 'cause I can't do this alone
He shared that 'handling conflict' was the number one issue that they were failing at. They tried sweeping things under the rug and hoping they would eventually resolve themselves, but as you know things left undealt with don't get any better but actually get worse and worse. He finally realized that he was going to have to have some painful conversations and make some lifestyle changes and no longer ignore some issues. This resonates with me as I definitely run from conflict. I know for me I have to resist being passive and actively lead my family. As it says in Ephesians 4, I have to speak the truth in love with my wife and kids and hear the truth in love from my wife and kids. Today they need me to lead them. Below are the lyrics to the song and a video of Matt and his wife sharing about their story.
in Christ,
Brian
Lead Me
I look around and see my wonderful life
Almost perfect from the outside
In picture frames, I see my beautiful wife
Always smiling, but on the inside
Oh, I can hear her saying
Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, but what about us?
Show me you're willing to fight
That I'm still the love of your life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone
I see their faces, look in their innocent eyes
They're just children from the outside
I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine
They're independent, but on the inside I can hear them saying
So Father, give me the strength
To be everything I'm called to be
Oh Father, show me the way
To lead them
Won't You lead me?
Father, lead me 'cause I can't do this alone
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Maine.
I spent this last week in Camden, Maine with my family. Before we went on our trip I was anticipating the experience of being encompassed by the beauty of God's creation.
Most of the trip was cold and rainy (which I enjoy and so, I was not disappointed) but even in the rain the bright greens of the plants were made more vivid. My aunt pointed out, in awe, the new growth sprouting from trees.
From the few hours of sunshine I witnessed on our trip in contrast with the rain and the chill: I cannot say that either was more beautiful.
Just further proof that God is incredible and has provided, for us, a beautiful earth to inhabit. Even in times of storm that we are more apt to find displeasure in, there is still new growth to be admired. New growth in not just the the physical works but also in our spiritual world.
Through the tempest God can grow us in our strength.
Psalm 46:10
Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
This weeks memory verse is Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Hailey
Most of the trip was cold and rainy (which I enjoy and so, I was not disappointed) but even in the rain the bright greens of the plants were made more vivid. My aunt pointed out, in awe, the new growth sprouting from trees.
From the few hours of sunshine I witnessed on our trip in contrast with the rain and the chill: I cannot say that either was more beautiful.
Just further proof that God is incredible and has provided, for us, a beautiful earth to inhabit. Even in times of storm that we are more apt to find displeasure in, there is still new growth to be admired. New growth in not just the the physical works but also in our spiritual world.
Through the tempest God can grow us in our strength.
Psalm 46:10
Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
This weeks memory verse is Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Hailey
If I Were A Rich Man.
In the musical Fiddler on the Roof, Reb Tevye is singing what it might be like to be rich. He talks of many things, but he sings that the best part of being rich would be having more time to study the Holy word of God.
(Tevye) "And I'd discuss the holy books with the learned men,
several hours every day.
That would be the sweetest thing of all.
Reminds me of Colossians 3:16-17
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
So that is how to be rich.
Many people understandable think that when you come to church, you first sing spiritual songs and then hear the word preached.
However, our desire as a worship team is to skillfully combine God's word with music.
We hope for there to be multiple scriptures woven in lyrics that are Christ honoring and God glorifying.
The theology of the lyrics we sing should share the wisdom of God, be true to scripture and rightly describe God through Christ, as He has revealed Himself.
I believe one of the best ways to "let the word of Christ richly dwell within us," is to learn a spiritual song based on scripture.
I pray that we at StoneBridge will faithfully teach worship songs that will help all of us fully receive God's word.
Singing God's word by heart,
Joe
(Tevye) "And I'd discuss the holy books with the learned men,
several hours every day.
That would be the sweetest thing of all.
Reminds me of Colossians 3:16-17
Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
So that is how to be rich.
Many people understandable think that when you come to church, you first sing spiritual songs and then hear the word preached.
However, our desire as a worship team is to skillfully combine God's word with music.
We hope for there to be multiple scriptures woven in lyrics that are Christ honoring and God glorifying.
The theology of the lyrics we sing should share the wisdom of God, be true to scripture and rightly describe God through Christ, as He has revealed Himself.
I believe one of the best ways to "let the word of Christ richly dwell within us," is to learn a spiritual song based on scripture.
I pray that we at StoneBridge will faithfully teach worship songs that will help all of us fully receive God's word.
Singing God's word by heart,
Joe
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Coma As You Are.
One of our core values here at StoneBridge is 'Being Real - Creating a safe environment where you can come as you are.' Yesterday I was reading in Isaiah 56 where it says, 6 "And as for the outsiders who now follow me, working for me, loving my name, and wanting to be my servants - All who keep Sabbath and don't defile it, holding fast to my covenant - 7 I'll bring them to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. They'll be welcome to worship the same as the 'insiders,' to bring burnt offerings and sacrifices to my altar. Oh yes, my house of worship will be known as a house of prayer for all people."
In other words, God wants His house to be a place that is open for all people, all walks of life, all backgrounds to come and worship Him. As soon as we start having the 'insiders' vs the 'outsiders' in our church we are going against the grain of what God desires. For us on staff we try to constantly make sure we make decisions not just because we like it or are comfortable with it, but rather we try and think about those who still feel like 'outsiders'. What about you and me? I have to constantly check myself to make sure I don't intentionally or unintentionally exclude people. God's heart beats passionately for the excluded, the outcast, the disenfranchized, and the forgotten. So let's continue to be a church where people can 'come as they are' and let's be a people that hold out the the hope of the gospel to all people.
in Christ,
Brian
In other words, God wants His house to be a place that is open for all people, all walks of life, all backgrounds to come and worship Him. As soon as we start having the 'insiders' vs the 'outsiders' in our church we are going against the grain of what God desires. For us on staff we try to constantly make sure we make decisions not just because we like it or are comfortable with it, but rather we try and think about those who still feel like 'outsiders'. What about you and me? I have to constantly check myself to make sure I don't intentionally or unintentionally exclude people. God's heart beats passionately for the excluded, the outcast, the disenfranchized, and the forgotten. So let's continue to be a church where people can 'come as they are' and let's be a people that hold out the the hope of the gospel to all people.
in Christ,
Brian
Monday, June 11, 2012
So I Send You.
During yesterday's worship service we commissioned the following groups as described by Executive Pastor Steve Dupree who leads our missions team:
Honduras: Our team traveling to Honduras returns to Partner with Pastor Jorge in the community of La Cieba, our mission partnership there is characterized by renewing relationships as we do mission not to the people of Honduras but with them. This year we will again have a combination of adults and youth and partner with other churches to combine as a group of 30 people.
· Zambia: StoneBridge will send 20 people to Zambia this year with Family Legacy and represent direct touch and support to 200 orphans there. Our folks will be leaving on multiple weeks throughout the Summer, as they seek to make a difference in the lives of children in Africa. Most are serving one week, but some are staying for an entire month.
Haiti: Brent and Leslie Call and their children will be traveling to Haiti to help establish a new orphan community in Gonaives, Haiti. They will be in Haiti most of the summer not only pouring into orphans but also helping establish work skills and teaching basic business practice to the people in the community there.
Evidence: Our High School music and ministry team will be serving in the soup kitchens for the homeless in Denver, CO. We will be partnering with the David and Lindsey Wittenmyer and serving with several well established ministries such as the Denver Rescue Mission.
Two things come to mind, first that all of us are called to go, send, and pray.
When we hear the call, the answer is yes Lord.
(No and Lord don't work in the same sentence, I know from experience)
We just need to discern which calling is most appropriate and God's timing.
Sunday, I was thrilled to be part of a sending and praying church.
It is and will make a difference in the lives of many people.
We don't just go on our own. We are to be sent. We are sent by the Lord Jesus Himself and by His body the church.
In John 20:21 Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”·
In the Act's of the Apostles there were many reference to people being sent from one group of believers to a city that needed someone to preach or teach or even just to encourage.
While we are sent to the whole world, there are some who are given special attention in the Father's heart.
James 1:27 Here are the kinds of beliefs that God our Father accepts as pure and without fault. When widows and children who have no parents are in trouble, take care of them, and keep yourselves from being polluted by the world."
So in a way that could only be orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, God has touched hearts of three different teams of people from StoneBridge to go to Haiti, Honduras and Zambia to take care of children who have no parents and are in trouble.
What a wonderful way to thank our Father for adopting us into His family though our loving Lord Jesus.
Until the Whole World Hear's,
Joe
Friday, June 8, 2012
All or Nothing.
Have you ever noticed how alot of the worship songs that have been written contain some pretty intense lyrics. Here's a sampling.... 'Love so amazing so divine demands my soul, my life, my all.' 'All to Jesus I surrender...all to Him I freely give.' 'My whole life is Yours I give it all...surrendered to Your Name.' Well when Jesus invites us to follow Him He uses pretty intense language too. For instance it says in Luke 14:26 that "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple." In other words our love for Jesus should be second to none. Our surrender and devotion and love for Christ should have no rival. He goes straight after the closest relationships you can have on earth and even these relationships pale in comparison to our devotion to Christ.
The truth is our souls have been designed for God. We are created with intense desires and cravings. When we attempt to half-heartedly worship and follow God it really just doesn't work. We end up dabbling in church but we want more than just a church service so we get pulled into sin and temptations of all sorts. That's why you won't hear us sing songs like, 'I surrender most of my life to You God' and 'I give you 2/3 of my life God' and 'I will follow You as long as things go the way I want God.' No, the Christian life really is an all or nothing kind of gig. Christianity was never meant to be a religion or a weekly activity. It is a relationship, a new birth, a new life, a new heart, a new way and direction. Our identity is in Christ. Our purpose is in Christ. It is time to get off the fence and jump head first into the river of knowing Jesus and following Him.
in Christ,
Brian
The truth is our souls have been designed for God. We are created with intense desires and cravings. When we attempt to half-heartedly worship and follow God it really just doesn't work. We end up dabbling in church but we want more than just a church service so we get pulled into sin and temptations of all sorts. That's why you won't hear us sing songs like, 'I surrender most of my life to You God' and 'I give you 2/3 of my life God' and 'I will follow You as long as things go the way I want God.' No, the Christian life really is an all or nothing kind of gig. Christianity was never meant to be a religion or a weekly activity. It is a relationship, a new birth, a new life, a new heart, a new way and direction. Our identity is in Christ. Our purpose is in Christ. It is time to get off the fence and jump head first into the river of knowing Jesus and following Him.
in Christ,
Brian
Thursday, June 7, 2012
The Shepherd's Voice.
The one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” John 10:2-5
Did you know that even before birth a baby can recognize, and find comfort in, the sound of their mother’s voice? While we are still forming in the womb, we are learning how to differentiate one voice from another. This skill is crucial after birth so we are able to develop a sense of attachment with our primary caregivers; because of this, researchers stress the importance of mothers speaking to their babies often during their pregnancy.
Did you also know that God intends for us to experience this with Him? Although we often don’t hear His voice audibly, He finds alternative ways to speak into our lives; through another person, through the song on the radio, or through a verse you just happened to read. The above passage paints a beautiful picture of how it should be when we are walking closely with the Shepherd. Through time and exposure to His voice, we come to know and recognize it above all the others. How wonderful to think that even amidst all the noise and chaos of this world we could hear His voice and follow His lead. So many times I have felt a nudge in a specific direction and wondered whether it was the Lord or whether it was another voice; and if I were honest, those were the times that I was not closely and diligently walking with Him. I don’t want an uncertainty like that! I desire to know the voice of my Shepherd by heart so that I keep from following a stranger. With all the voices you have calling out to you each day, are you able to decipher the One that truly matters? He intends nothing less for us.
Lindsey
Did you know that even before birth a baby can recognize, and find comfort in, the sound of their mother’s voice? While we are still forming in the womb, we are learning how to differentiate one voice from another. This skill is crucial after birth so we are able to develop a sense of attachment with our primary caregivers; because of this, researchers stress the importance of mothers speaking to their babies often during their pregnancy.
Did you also know that God intends for us to experience this with Him? Although we often don’t hear His voice audibly, He finds alternative ways to speak into our lives; through another person, through the song on the radio, or through a verse you just happened to read. The above passage paints a beautiful picture of how it should be when we are walking closely with the Shepherd. Through time and exposure to His voice, we come to know and recognize it above all the others. How wonderful to think that even amidst all the noise and chaos of this world we could hear His voice and follow His lead. So many times I have felt a nudge in a specific direction and wondered whether it was the Lord or whether it was another voice; and if I were honest, those were the times that I was not closely and diligently walking with Him. I don’t want an uncertainty like that! I desire to know the voice of my Shepherd by heart so that I keep from following a stranger. With all the voices you have calling out to you each day, are you able to decipher the One that truly matters? He intends nothing less for us.
Lindsey
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Armor Up. (Part Deux)
So last week I briefly shared some of the meaning of the belt of truth. This week I want to try to unpack what is meant by the "breastplate of righteousness"
First a breastplate obviously protects the vital organs, primarily the heart.
Proverbs 4:23 Says Above all else guard your heart, for from it flows the springs of life.
The word "discourage" literally means to lose heart. So we must put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect our heart.
Put on. We put on the breastplate. It is something we are given by God to put on. It is not something we manufacture ourselves.
Galatians 3:27
for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
Romans 3:22
This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,
This is the righteousness of Jesus that we put on by trusting in Him and His sacrifice on our behalf.
This breastplate of righteousness gives us a holy boldness in Christ, because we don't leave fearfully, because we know we are protected. Our life is hidden with Christ.
Proverbs 28:1
The wicked flee though no one pursues,
but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
So like the Lion of Judah, Be Bold
Revelation 5:5
Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
So with the breastplate of the Lion of Judah,
Armor up,
Joe
Next time the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
First a breastplate obviously protects the vital organs, primarily the heart.
Proverbs 4:23 Says Above all else guard your heart, for from it flows the springs of life.
The word "discourage" literally means to lose heart. So we must put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect our heart.
Put on. We put on the breastplate. It is something we are given by God to put on. It is not something we manufacture ourselves.
Galatians 3:27
for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
Romans 3:22
This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,
This is the righteousness of Jesus that we put on by trusting in Him and His sacrifice on our behalf.
This breastplate of righteousness gives us a holy boldness in Christ, because we don't leave fearfully, because we know we are protected. Our life is hidden with Christ.
Proverbs 28:1
The wicked flee though no one pursues,
but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
So like the Lion of Judah, Be Bold
Revelation 5:5
Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
So with the breastplate of the Lion of Judah,
Armor up,
Joe
Next time the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
The Way.
Yesterday our church hosted the memorial service for Dr Karen Gunn who tragically lost her life on Memorial Day. During the service Steve shared this passage from John 14:
1 "Do not let your heart be troubled ; believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 "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. 3 "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. 4 "And you know the way where I am going." 5 Thomas said to Him,"Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?" 6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life ; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
As Steve reminded everyone yesterday, heaven is a real place that is open to anyone. Thomas asks a really big question.... 'How do we know the way?' Very simple. Jesus is the way. Jesus is the One who bore God's wrath for our sin. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled the law. Only His blood can save us. He is the One who was laid in a tomb and then was raised out of the tomb thus conquering sin and death. Jesus is the One who is preparing a place for us who have trusted in Him where there will be no more sin, sorrow, death, pain or sickness. It will be a place where Jesus is king and love rules and life is experienced to the fullest.
So, when our hearts become troubled we need to go to Jesus and trust Him...the One who empathizes with our pain and weeps alongside of us but also reminds us that our mourning is not without hope but it is like the Josh Wilson song reminds us... 'just the dark before the morning.'
in Christ,
Brian
1 "Do not let your heart be troubled ; believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 "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. 3 "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. 4 "And you know the way where I am going." 5 Thomas said to Him,"Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?" 6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life ; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
As Steve reminded everyone yesterday, heaven is a real place that is open to anyone. Thomas asks a really big question.... 'How do we know the way?' Very simple. Jesus is the way. Jesus is the One who bore God's wrath for our sin. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled the law. Only His blood can save us. He is the One who was laid in a tomb and then was raised out of the tomb thus conquering sin and death. Jesus is the One who is preparing a place for us who have trusted in Him where there will be no more sin, sorrow, death, pain or sickness. It will be a place where Jesus is king and love rules and life is experienced to the fullest.
So, when our hearts become troubled we need to go to Jesus and trust Him...the One who empathizes with our pain and weeps alongside of us but also reminds us that our mourning is not without hope but it is like the Josh Wilson song reminds us... 'just the dark before the morning.'
in Christ,
Brian
Friday, June 1, 2012
Busy or Fruitful?
This spring I decided to expand my garden and added a new 6' X 4' box. At the beginning of march I packed it full of little seedlings and watched it grow and grow. Within about 6 weeks or so it had truly become a wild jungle of leaves and vines. For awhile I let it just go crazy and I thought it looked pretty impressive with lots of growth and activity. Eventually I had to face the fact that if I continued to let this thing go, the majority of the plants would never receive any sunlight and would be crowded and choked out by each other and never produce anything. So over the last few weeks I have been pruning and cutting and at last my little plants are finally able to have some space and room to focus on what matters...bearing fruit.
In Mark 4 Jesus shares a well known parable about seeds that fell in different types of soil. Below is His explanation of the seed that fell among the thorns:
18 The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, 19 but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for nice things, so no crop is produced. 20 But the good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest -- thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted."
What about my life and your life? Is it time to prune? Do we have space in our life to hear and accept God's message for us on a daily basis? Are we just saying yes to everything? I know for me I have to tend my life just like I have to tend my garden, every day. I have to constantly look at my schedule and ask 'is my schedule going to draw me closer to Christ and the things that matter to Him or is it going to pull me away from Christ and the things that matter to Him?' The average person in the church will say that what really matters to them are God, family and then everything else. Yet, does our schedule really show that? Let's get to pruning today!
in Christ,
Brian
In Mark 4 Jesus shares a well known parable about seeds that fell in different types of soil. Below is His explanation of the seed that fell among the thorns:
18 The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, 19 but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for nice things, so no crop is produced. 20 But the good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest -- thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted."
What about my life and your life? Is it time to prune? Do we have space in our life to hear and accept God's message for us on a daily basis? Are we just saying yes to everything? I know for me I have to tend my life just like I have to tend my garden, every day. I have to constantly look at my schedule and ask 'is my schedule going to draw me closer to Christ and the things that matter to Him or is it going to pull me away from Christ and the things that matter to Him?' The average person in the church will say that what really matters to them are God, family and then everything else. Yet, does our schedule really show that? Let's get to pruning today!
in Christ,
Brian
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