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Speaking to my heart...

2011-11-13T10:04:00.001-05:00

No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.

And there is nothing
That can ever separate us.
There is nothing that can ever
separate us from Your love.
No life, no death, of this I am convinced.
You my God, are greater still.

I have a "thing" for watches...

2011-09-04T10:41:00.000-04:00

I've always loved to travel, to see new things, and experience new places. I tell my parents I want to visit some random city, and often their response is, "Why do you wanna go THERE?" My common answer is, "Why not?"

Lately, I've been restless. I've been needing to DO something. I've been feeling this pull at my heart to help heal this broken world we live in, so I started looking in to international missions opportunities. Unfortunately, with a busy work schedule that isn't very vacation friendly, and a busy school schedule that just isn't friendly at all, I don't have much time for short day excursions, much less an adventure internationally. That left me feeling somewhat defeated and discouraged.

About that time, I came across this awesome organization called Hello Somebody. Hello Somebody is "a non-profit brand that exists to impact and change the world through love, passion, and creativity." The organizations website sells merchandise (from t-shirts to music albums) that yields enough profit to feed the hungry. Their most popular and most promoted product is the nifty watch you see left. I've always had a "thing" for watches, so I knew I had to have one. The cool part was, in buying this watch I fed 125 of the worlds hungriest people...for $22!

The idea got me thinking. I've been sitting around feeling sorry for myself because I can't GO somewhere at this point in my life, but what opportunities do I have HERE to change someone's life because I have a good paying job? I spend money on things like Netflix, Hulu Plus, and Spotify Premium accounts when some child is WAITING anxiously for someone who cares enough to sponsor them, and while people die everyday because they don't have clean drinking water. What is wrong with me?

So...now there's Felix. He's five, lives in Kenya, and loves to play ball. He lives with his mother, who sometimes works in the market. He takes care of his family's farm animals, and does pretty well in school. He now has a sponsor through Compassion International. When you look at his picture (right), you'll see why I fell in love with him. I can't wait to watch him grow up and become a man of God.

Next up: a project through charity: water. Here's an opportunity for you to be blessed (like I have) by changing someone's life forever. Interested? Take a look at this video from charity: water. Jump on board.

There are so many things we can do!!!

The 2011 September Campaign. Our 5-year-anniversary video from charity: water on Vimeo.

A Different Direction.

2010-08-29T00:06:00.001-04:00

As many of you know, my life these days revolves around the hospital. I work, sleep, eat, work, go to meetings, and repeat. I'm not horribly bothered by it. After all, what else would I be doing? It does, however, somewhat explain my absence here and in other forms of "e-interaction".

I do wish, though, that I could take some of you with me to work. I wish I could show you some of the ridiculous nonsense that is the "norm" on a busy cardiac floor. I wish I could share patient's stories, their sad days, and their happy ones. I wish you could see how patients treat us, and how we treat them. I wish I could show you the character of the men and women who work within Martha Jefferson's walls and how each of us is affected by each patient we encounter. I wish you could TRULY see what it's like to do our job.

Most of it you wouldn't believe.

I'll try to paint a picture, but in the end, words just can't describe.

It's only Wednesday...

2010-07-21T10:02:00.000-04:00

It's only Wednesday and I've:

Been to Richmond, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, and Waynesboro.

Read the book of Proverbs.

Been encouraged by hugs from people I've truely missed.

Been reminded of people and things that REALLY get under my skin.

Been completely blessed in SO many ways.

Had feelings confirmed by people who's judgment I trust.

Seen Mrs. Anita's face.

What a week...

And it's only Wednesday.

Three things...or four.

2010-07-12T07:26:00.000-04:00

As I sit on the patio at Starbucks, looking out across the Blue Ridge Mountains, several things are on my mind.

First and foremost, I'm kicking myself for sitting outside. I'm fighting a cold that has unpleasantly settled in my chest. Despite my belief in the healing powers of a Grande No Whip Caramel White Chocolate Mocha, I can't help but wonder if I'll regret my little outdoor lounging session later.

I'm also a little bummed about summer. This is the first summer since I was 12 years old (almost 10 years) that I haven't gone to "church camp" or something of the like. The youth from FBCW are off at Passport and old friends are headed to camp next week. Needless to say, my mind is elsewhere.

Thirdly, I'm missing school horribly. I NEVER thought I'd hear myself say those words, but it's true. I miss sitting in class, taking notes, and packing in the knowledge. Homework, however, is not part of this longing.

I've had this scripture swirling around in my head for a few days now...figured I'd share.

Many are the plans in a man's heart,
but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

-Proverbs 19:21

I feel much better.

FYI

2010-06-19T07:04:00.001-04:00

Hello blog friends!

It's been ages, huh? I hope you're all well!!

As I sit in my comfy chair at Starbucks, watching the Sun rise above the Blue Ridge Mountains, I figured I'd give you guys an update. I'm not talking anything interesting, just a "here's what's been happening" kinda thing.

Summer in the mountains is fabulous. Warm days and cool nights. Nature abounds around this small town. You can't beat a screened in porch surrounded by a yard full of fireflies.

I've been in Virginia almost six months now. At this point, I figured I'd be tired of this place. I figured I'd be ready to move on to something different and...well...more URBAN. Despite my plans, I'm extremely happy living here. It's slow paced and quiet. I get my city fix four nights a week when I drive to Charlottesville (Home of the University of Virginia) for my job at the wonderful Martha Jefferson Hospital.

It's my "second home" so to speak. I work on South-6, or TCU. It's busy, fast paced, and almost comical at times. The people are great, and there's always something interesting rolling through the door. It's an exciting time for Martha Jefferson! We're bursting at the seams, so much so that we're building a new hospital! At least for now, times are good in health care.

I wish I could bring a few of you here to live, to experience a culture that is altogether different from anything I'd ever seen in South Carolina. For now, however, I guess theses small updates will have to do.

Until next time, friends.

I need your help…

2010-04-11T21:51:00.001-04:00

This weekend I found myself with two of my very best friends…in fact…they’re almost like family.

We talked a lot. We talked about marriage, becoming monks, family dynamics, coffee, Twitter, and all sorts of petty things.

The cool part is, my friends are SO wise. I haven’t figured out if God has surrounded me with wise friends because I’m lacking something, or if I’m just extremely blessed. Regardless, what my friends know about a life with Jesus never ceases to amaze me.

We moved from the petty conversation and discussed things like worship style, discipleship, predestination, and unreached people groups. A lot of our conversations revolve around how we view the church. It kinda got me thinking…

I’d like to hear from you. Here’s a set of questions I’d love for you to answer. Post your answers in a comment below, or feel free to e-mail me at michaellotts@gmail.com

I will say this: I know that church is not about us, but rather the glorification of an amazing God. These questions are intended to gather information about the place that allows you to glorify God most effectively. PLEASE respond.

1. Traditional or contemporary musical worship?

2. What do you like most about your current church?

3. What is the first thing you look for when searching for a church?

4. What is “a deal breaker” for you in a church? What makes you say, “This one’s not for me.”

5. What is the importance of denomination, in your opinion?

There will be more…I just would love to hear some things from you.

If…

2010-04-06T00:29:00.001-04:00

If you love Jesus you’ll read my friend Sarah’s blog. I promise it’s worth your time.

Just click the picture below!

Check it out:

Ship Shape

2010-04-03T23:33:00.001-04:00

Check out this video…and leave comments!

Cruise Ship vs. Battleship from Igniter Media on Vimeo.

A Real Page Turner

2010-04-01T22:14:00.002-04:00

For the past few years, I’ve been the kind of person that doesn’t take anyone’s word for anything. I want to touch it, hear it, smell it, taste it, or see it myself. Things are no different at church. If the pastor is reading scripture, my Bible is open to the same page. I follow along just to see it for myself.

At the Maundy Thursday service tonight, I heard the pastor say something that conflicted with a statement I had heard in another message. Lucky for me, I had my Bible…so I looked for myself. The statement was concerning the last words of Jesus during His crucifixion. It turned out that tonight’s message was correct, but in the process I had a neat little reminder from Jesus.

In my investigation, my fingers naturally flipped to The Gospels (The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the New Testament). Without thinking, I flipped to the last chapter of Matthew, looking for the part about the crucifixion. I flipped back a couple pages until I found what I was looking for. I did the same with the book of Mark, flipping to the last chapter, then turning back a couple pages until I found the crucifixion.

All of a sudden it hit me! I had been looking for the crucifixion at the end of the book, but the crucifixion isn’t the end of the story!!!!!!!!

I had seen it for myself!

It’s almost like I had forgotten the good part!

JESUS IS ALIVE!!!

Say that out loud: JESUS IS ALIVE!!!!

Does your heart beat a little faster? Mine does…

Thank you, Lord that the Jesus’ death is not the end of the story!

JESUS IS ALIVE!!!!!!!!

Inbox (1)

2010-03-30T23:12:00.003-04:00

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
- Hebrews 10:35-36, NIV

A friend of mine posted that as her Facebook status earlier today. One of those little messages God drops in your face to remind you He knows what you need. It reminded me to keep on doing what I know is “the will of God”.

I felt like you might need it too.

It kinda makes me excited for the promise!

First Baptist Church…Plant

2010-03-29T23:44:00.002-04:00

Imagine something with me for just a second. Can you imagine the impact a First Baptist Church (or any other church that’s been around longer than 50 years) could have on a community, if only they had the humble attitude of a infant church plant?

What if we stopped doing things “the way we’ve always done it” because we want to reach people outside of the people we’ve always reached?

What if we took chances? What if we stepped out on faith? What if we yielded to the call of the Holy Spirit?

Imagine the possibilities!

Things are changing. Something’s coming…I can feel it!

It’s gonna be big…

I’m so freakin’ ready…

Link Love…2

2010-03-14T12:41:00.001-04:00

I’m loving spreading this link love around. I hope the last link I shared spoke to your heart just a little.

Anyway, here’s a little more link love.

A friend of mine wrote a letter to you…yes…specifically for you. Her name is Lauren and she wants to hear from you!

Wanna read the letter?

Just click on the picture to hop over to her blog post!!!

Link Love…

2010-03-07T22:45:00.012-05:00

The past few days, I’ve been following the posts of several bloggers who are currently in Kenya through Compassion International. The trip was composed of bloggers, most of whom sponsored Kenyan children through Compassion International. The travelers have all blogged about their experience thus far. This post stuck out. If you sponsor a child, it will affirm the importance of your sponsorship. If you don’t sponsor, read it anyway. In reading it, I felt both sadness and conviction. Just sharing some link love:
This is Reverb>>>The day of spiritual jealousy

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This little box of mine…

2010-03-06T00:12:00.002-05:00

In case you haven’t noticed, a new box has shown up on the right hand side of my blog. Here’s what it looks like:

This neat little box allows you to ask my any question you’d like. Thanks to www.formspring.me, you can do it anonymously, or with your information. When I answer the question, the site will e-mail you my response.

I’m sure there’s something you’ve always wanted to ask…

More from Haiti…

2010-03-03T16:39:00.002-05:00

Check out this pretty awesome video from the 410Bridge.

If not now, when?

Yup…

2010-02-24T14:56:00.002-05:00

This kinda made me feel special:

Hehe…oh Twitter.

It’s the small things…

2010-02-24T00:00:00.002-05:00

It’s been a while since Passion 2010…almost two months. I went in to Passion expecting my reaction to be the same as that of the life changing epiphany in Passion 2007. I expected to be blown away by Main Session Worship, unable to contain emotions. I expected to be so pumped up that I would come back wanting to change the world in response to what I saw at Passion 2010. While worship was AMAZING, and while I learned so much about the character of God in those sessions, that’s not what blew me away this time.

In 2007, I was a freshman in college…18 years old. I was blown away by the “bigness” of Passion. I was blown away by twenty-thousand college students in one room. I was blown away by the power of that movement, and while that still blows my mind it’s not what pulled at my heart this time.

Over the past several years, smaller more intimate relationships have been placed on my heart. I knew when I arrived at Passion, that I would be a part of a “family group,” but only by the grace and power of Jesus did I end up with such awesome men and women of God. It was so refreshing to hear the question, “What’s Jesus taught you lately?” It was so uplifting to hear these wonderful people praying for me. One morning I came to family groups so excited about morning worship! I had understood John Piper. As I was expressing the excitement to my new friends when a member of our group said, “Yes! I’m so glad because I prayed that for you this morning!” They prayed for me when I wasn’t around, though we had known each other for only hours. That changed my heart, and every time I get a message from our “fearless leader,” my heart gets a little more excited.

While I’ve always believed Passions was an AMAZING ministry, now I believe in the Passion movement at ALL levels. From the twenty-thousand in Main Session, to the eight new friends gathered around a carpet circle somewhere in the GWCC.

I believe that is the power of Jesus, and the heart of a 268 Generation…

About that Cap & Gown…

2010-02-11T18:21:00.003-05:00

Recently, my brother and all his friends have started talking about graduation. People have started asking that dreaded question, “What are your plans after graduation?” I listen to their answers and then think back to how I responded to that very same question exactly four years ago.
I have to admit, my vision for the four years following high school didn’t exactly turn out the way I had hoped. I always “knew” that at this point in my life I’d be finishing up a nursing degree from the University of South Carolina, preparing for a career in Columbia, SC. I figured I’d come home to visit my family in Florence on a regular basis, and see all of my friends that still lived there.
Three schools, three cities, and three majors later, I don’t feel any closer to the goals I had hoped to accomplish. I guess I’m still learning some good stuff. I’m more independent of people, and I’m finding joy in things I had long forgotten. I can’t lie. It’s still hard.
I just have to remember my plans mean crap, right?

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Whatever You're Doing

2009-12-26T23:29:00.001-05:00

It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly

Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Revaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender...
To...

Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly

It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out

-Sanctus Real

Untraceable

2009-12-10T00:20:00.000-05:00

My friend Alimatt gives me a hard time about my wonderful ability to just...disappear, and I must say, I'm pretty good at it.

I've been in VA for the past few days, regrouping, thinking, and retreating. My phone's been off, Facebook deactivated, and Twitter "gone away". I needed time to think apart from all of those people who try to do my thinking for me, who tell me what I want and need, and here's what I've come up with.

Despite the fact that change absolutely terrifies me, it's time.

There are some days I'm so unhappy with the same old routine that I can hardly stand it. I know what I want but it feels just outside possibility. I need something different, because what I've got now, just isn't working.

Welcome Back?

2009-11-25T17:07:00.000-05:00

Over the past several weeks, I've gotten a lot of questions about why I stopped my blog. I've pretty much given the same answer each time: I felt like I was doing more harm than good...

Several people have tried hard to convince me otherwise, and I must admit...they have some good points. I guess what I'm trying to say is...

I'm back...

Here's a bit of a disclaimer, however. This blog is a direct reflection of my heart. If I say it...most likely I mean it, but at the end of the day...it's still my opinion. Bottom line is, this opinion may be different than yours and I'm ok with that. I can only hope you'll take a second to evaluate yourself and think for yourself.

I'm at home for Thanksgiving this week. My phone has been in and out due to some "technical difficulties," Facebook hasn't been calling my name like usual, and Twitter just kinda takes a backseat while I'm at home. Needless to say, I've had plenty of time to think over the past several days. I've got some thoughts for you guys later on, but they'll have to wait.

Just thought I'd say hello...

The Final Curtain Call

2009-11-12T15:06:00.000-05:00

I tell myself and others that I don't really care what people think, and most times I don't, but the human, arrogant, performer side of me still yearns for the applause...some kind of approval. No matter what I tell myself, I still fight for a response. It's not always on a grand scale, but there are some people who's favor I feel like I can't live without.

I started this blog as an outlet to share my heart in hopes of evoking that response...in hopes of saying something that touched someone, helped someone, or encouraged someone. I don't know if I've been successful or not, but I feel like things have gone terribly wrong. People misinterpret, twist, and critique every word I write, and most times the response is completely negative. That is something I'm not ok with. I can't live with a negative response to the Gospel, or any follower of it.

In light of that, I'm stopping, but before I go I have one thing to say.

It's sort of clarification...

These days, I'm not willing to put up with much in my life that hinders my pursuit of Jesus and the advancement of the Gospel. If that's a problem for you...that's just something you're gonna have to deal with. That's where I DON'T seek your approval...

[blackout][curtain]

Pull It All Together...

2009-11-04T23:14:00.000-05:00

I think I complain a lot. It's one thing I don't like about myself, but...I'm gonna do it just this once.

This past week has been crazy! Between school, a CRAZY work schedule, planning College Night at The Middle, and trying to find a place to live...I'm exhausted! Here's a little summary of how things have gone:

School is hard, and most days I walk out of class telling myself I'm never going back. Enough said.

Work at the hospital is my favorite thing about life right now. I'm learning soooo much and loving every moment.

College Night was...good. Skits went off without a hitch, music was great, and there was NO DEAD AIR! My talk...left something to be desired, or at least that's what the human part of me says. I scrapped it all at the last minute and started from scratch, but I mean, kids responded! That's Jesus moving! What more can we ask for right?

I found a new place to live. It'll be great. You'll have to come for a visit sometime!

Random thoughts:
I got in trouble for my opinion several times over the past few weeks.

I visited a new church this week. I'm not in the market but...I like to try em out.

I'm going camping tomorrow, and I'm totally excited.

I love that TV is starting to play Christmas specials.

I really don't care what people think.

Let's Get Specific...

2009-10-21T00:18:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I'm ashamed to call myself part of the church in America, but more specifically, Florence, SC. It disgusts me...literally. There are days when it makes me sick to my stomach. Today is one of those days. Thoughts of starting from scratch, without tradition and the "way we've always done it" completely consumes my mind, not because I think I can do things better, but because it would be a church about Jesus...something that's few and far between these days. My friend, Allison Triplett, and I discussed just...dropping everything and starting over somewhere. Today, that sounds appealing. Here's why:

I've tried to help people deal with their sin. I've tried accountability on a personal, one-on-one level. It didn't work. I've tried accountability in a small group. It didn't work. Consider this my taking it to the Church. Don't expect me to be vague. We're going to deal TODAY. I'm sure I'll hear about this later, but let's get specific...

First, college guys of Florence. You need to wake up and step up. Talk is cheap. I don't care what your excuse is, you need to deal with your sin. Whether your distraction is your girlfriend, your "wanna be" girlfriend, or just your own arrogance, get rid of it and deal with your sin in order to pursue Jesus. I'm not sure how you can expect to fulfill your plans of leading a congregation or a nation to Christ if you're not pursuing Jesus here and now...in YOUR city. You need to take a lesson from some of these Women of God YOUR AGE! College ladies...keep up the good work.

Next, Church of Florence...GET OVER YOURSELF! When will you realize it's not about who you are, what your budget is, or how many people you have in Sunday attendance? No matter how noble your cause might be, loving the church more than you love Jesus is WRONG! Here are some other words for wrong: sinful, evil, HATED BY GOD! It's not about the us at ALL. It's about working together to glorify the name of Jesus.

Here's a humbling statistic for you: The United States is now the number two mission RECEIVING country in the world! Why? Because if you were to take the unchurched population of the US and make it a country, it would be the eleventh most populated IN THE WORLD! And we're worried about which floors are tiled and the paint on the walls? Someone needs to step up. When do we start doing our part?

It is not ok to let five people do all the work. It is not ok to sit back and watch. It is not ok to see a need and ignore it. It is not ok to be more about us than about the community and serving them. It is not ok to ignore TRUE fellowship and worship. It is not ok to act like we're all fine, while ignoring the fact that we are screwing up!

This has nothing to do with our Pastor, Youth Minister, Music Minister, or any church staff. YOU AND I are the one's hindering the Church from reaching it's full potential. YOU AND I are the one's not sharing the name of Jesus!

Church...you break my heart. We have taken this thing that Christ intended to be so beautiful and we have whored it out for our own good and pleasure.

How sick...

Times are A-Changing...

2009-10-15T10:35:00.000-04:00

Over the years, technology has opened so many doors for communication,. So many, in fact, that I think we sometimes forget the opportunities it gives us.

Here's how things go...

Last night I was texting a friend down the street.

While texting, I was also on Facebook, keeping up with my friends around the world.

While on Facebook, I was having 3 conversations with friends on Skype. Skype allows you to chat with text, allows you to call each other with voice (much like the phone), and allows you to chat via video. It allows you to talk face to face no matter where you are.

All of these outlets have done wonders for ministry. It allows us to communicate much more efficiently (if we try). It allows us to maintain relationship with people no matter where they are. It's made investing in people progressively easier.

So here's the question...

Now that we can chat face to face around the world, and now that we can't use distance as an excuse for not investing, what's our excuse now?

Why aren't we doing our part??

Think, Think, Think...

2009-10-12T10:52:00.000-04:00

I work hard...

It may not look like it, but I work hard. Between school full time, working at the hospital full time, working at the church part-time, and trying to maintain a social life, my days are pretty packed. I feel like I'm managing pretty well at this point. I mean, I haven't called in sick to work, I'm making A's, and my friends don't hate me...yet...

There is just one problem...

The college students are responsible for planning and "producing" The Middle (our Wednesday night youth service) one Wednesday in early November. I've been designated to give the Bible study. It's not that I mind this so much. After all, I just thanked God for providing opportunities to speak the Gospel, but I've had a bit of trouble keeping my mind focused on the event long enough to pull it all together. I'm having a bit of trouble figuring out what the church needs to hear.

There are so many thoughts swirling around in my head, that I can't figure out what to talk about! So...what do you suggest?

On a related note, I can't help but wonder what happened to the servants heart in my college friends. What happened to seeing a need and desiring to meet that need?

Anyway, help me out...what do you want to hear??

MMMmmmmm....

2009-10-08T13:24:00.001-04:00

Every now and then you have one of those days that you just know you'll look back on and laugh.

Last night after an awesome night at church, three of my closest friends and I hung back to catch up on life. Eventually, after a few good laughs, we cranked the music and just sat enjoying each others' company. We lay on the floor just being friends. After a while, the music got softer and the conversation picked up. We covered A LOT.

It was the most REAL conversation I've had in a long time.

We talked about what was going on in our lives, what we felt, how Jesus was changing us, the things we were excited about, and the things that scared us. We talked about the future and our hopes, the past and the things we'd change, and everything in between. Every few minutes there was a pause...and every single time the silence was broken with four words: "I love you guys."

For the first time in a while I felt community within the Body of Christ as it should be. We do love each other, and we love Jesus more.

We all said we'd be friends forever, and as cheesy as it sounds, I can only hope I'm blessed by their friendship for the rest of my life.

I do love you guys...

In Case You Were Wondering...

2009-10-07T16:30:00.001-04:00

I'm an...interesting...person. I've got all sorts of quirks that people think are strange, but here's just a little bit more about me...

I love to be in constant contact with people most of the time. My dad just bought me a new Blackberry Curve that I'm in love with (thanks dad!!) and it helps me stay posted. I only turn my phone off in one place: Waynesboro, VA. It's almost like vacation.

I absolutely hate when someone trys to tell me how to worship. I can't stand when someone says, "Everyone raise your hands to Jesus!" Don't get me wrong, I love Jesus...A LOT...but if I wanted to raise my hands I would've done that without your prompting...

I'm completely against the "every head bowed, every eye closed" sort of invitation. In my opinion, the Gospel is something to be proud of. If you give Jesus access to your heart, but have to sneak out the back door while everyone else is looking at the floor, I'm pretty sure you don't quite understand the sacrifice that Jesus made for you.

I don't get into football like the rest of the country. It all seems a little petty to me. That thought has been stregnthened lately by arguements that destroyed relationships over a stupid rivalry. I thought adults were supposed to grow out of stuff like that. Yup...I said it...

People don't think I approve of relationships. In most cases I don't, however, there are a few select people whom I think are perfectly ready for a significant other in their lives. If I haven't told you that to your face, and you're not married, you prolly aren't one of those few...

I've come to appreciate time alone. At one point in my life I was completely opposed to the idea, but the older I get, the more I like to be by myself, enjoying quiet.

I absolutely love internet TV and radio. I could kiss the inventors of Hulu and Pandora.

I LOVE MY CHURCH FAMILY! Despite the fact that they absolutely infuriate me sometimes, I love the people I worship with. I just wish some of them would run after Jesus a little harder...

That's a little insight in to where my mind is right now...

I'm sure you care :)

Subtle Much??

2009-10-06T22:57:00.001-04:00

For about a year and a half now, a crazy and radical idea has been consuming my thought process for the majority of every day. If you've read many of my blogs, or spent much time around me, I'm sure you've heard my feelings about where we sinners have taken the church. Through a friend, I've come to realize the calling God has communicated through these feelings. Basically, God's going to start a new church, and he's gonna let me be a part of it!

I'm gonna be a church planter!!!

Over these past 18 months I've thought and prayed A LOT about how and where God would make this happen. I've talked to people who know the process, and I've made plans to sit under successful church planters for a few years before venturing out on my own. I've come up with a list of places that seem logical, but I've come to learn that my logic doesn't quite measure up to God's, so needless to say, I'm still listening.

I've been very adamant about where I feel my place is in the planting process. I tell people that, "I definitely don't feel called to be teaching staff, just part of the logistics," but over the past several weeks I've found myself desiring opportunities to speak the Truth of the Gospel to people, and strangely enough God has provided those opportunities. It's almost like His little subtle way of saying, "Oh really? Man, I'm so much smarter than you..."

Really, I'm beyond excited about things. I've gone over the "long range plan" with my parents and it just seems to fit. I do, however, ask you to pray for me and the people who will join me over the next few years. Through my BRIEF experience in the ministry, I've come to realize that NOTHING about this will be easy.

I love to talk about it, so ASK ME! Who knows, maybe you're called to jump on board...

After all...God DOES work in mysterious ways...

2009-09-26T23:58:00.002-04:00

2009-09-12T11:17:00.002-04:00

Scatagories...This week...

2009-09-10T18:09:00.001-04:00

Considering my OCD tendencies, I'm a fan of lists. For your convenience, I've categorized the last few weeks into several areas, all of which will be represented by a list. Note that these lists aren't exhaustive so...don't be offended. I know you're excited.

Things/People I'm thankful for:

1. Mrs. Anita Shively
2. Renewed friendships
3. Scrubs (like...what I wear to work everyday...)
4. My parents...for real
5. Neosporin's magical abilities
6. People who want to plant churches
7. YouTube
8. Justin McAlpin
9. Allison Triplett

Things I Hate:

1. When people use the "F" word...
2. When people slack off in their commitments (I hate it in myself too)
3. Nursing School (only some days)
4. When guys worship their girlfriends...
5. The South Carolina/Clemson rivalry
6. My cell phone
7. Moving
8. Swine Flu

Things I've Learned (or Remembered):

1. Jesus works across state lines
2. No matter how much passion you put into your description of Jesus, people will always walk away talking about the quality of your speech instead of the grace and mercy of Jesus...
3. I'm nocturnal
4. Waiting sucks

Something New I tried:

1. A grilled chicken burrito from Taco Bell...it was...decent.

Next week:

1. Long...but necessary to get to next year...

"Gotta, Wanta, Needa, Hava"

2009-09-02T02:18:00.002-04:00

Just in case you weren't aware, I have food cravings like a pregnant woman. If you're spent any time around me you'll remember instances of random, Taco Bell, Chick-Fil-A, Mexican, Italian, or even that weird night I craved marshmallows and peanut butter. Eventually all the cravings go away, but there's been this ONE craving that's been on my mind and heart for years, and no matter how hard I push it just won't go away.

For years I've had this desire to be a part of something different from this regular "Southern Sunday morning church." I've been craving something deeper. Something that takes a little more commitment. Now don't get me wrong, I love my church with my whole heart, but I feel like I'm missing out on something.

For years I've felt guilty about this, thinking, "No one else seems to have a problem with the way things are. That must mean you're in the wrong," but God kept placing these craving RIGHT back on my heart.

However, over the past several months, I've read several books that trusted friends have recommended. Strangely enough, they all seem to revolve around the importance of a couple of topics: Honesty, accountability, community, and fellowship, the things I've been craving for SO long.

I had been hoping for a place to be BRUTALLY honest, confronting the mountains of sin in our lives that make us wretched creatures, saved SOLELY by the grace of God. A place where people weren't afraid to call you on the carpet when you did something stupid. A place where people loved you and couldn't live without checking in on you everyday...and where you couldn't live without returning the favor. A place where people loved you and, most importantly, Jesus more than they loved religion.

Finally, I understood why I had been craving these things. They were parts of my nature, parts of my personality God had placed there at my creation, but parts many people have learned to ignore as ways of coping with a sinful and prideful nature.

As great as it felt, however, I still had no solution. I had no one with whom to be COMPLETELY honest and accountable. No STRONG community, and no TRUE fellowship. So, I sit here, craving those elements of my nature that I know will bring me closer to Jesus.

I know there are people in the city of Florence, SC who feel the same way about Jesus and who have those same cravings. I beg you: LET ME KNOW! We were created to be COMPLETELY honest and accountable. Created to have STRONG community. Created to have TRUE fellowship.

So I beg you once again. Speak up...I need you. I can't do this alone.

I need a Silas...

2009-08-01T11:51:00.002-04:00

Let's set the scene. It's 11:30 on Thursday night. I'm leaving in 24 hours, with a group of my closest friends, to spend a week serving God in the hot, humid, stickyness that is Jamaica. Surprisingly enough, I have YET to start packing. Allison Triplett and I are very soon headed to Walmart to begin the process, but for some reason, none of us really feel like it's REALLY time to leave.
The trip has certainly snuck up on us. It's been in the works for almost a year, but yet, it still seems to have arrived a little too quickly, and while I'm certainly not prepared physically, I can only pray I'm prepared spiritually.
Despite all the physical planning that's gone into this project, that hasn't been my biggest worry. I've tried hard to prepare myself to serve, but just like the packing, things seem to have snuck up on me. I wonder if we're really the one's that should be showing people in a foreign country what it looks like to live with Jesus. Do we even know?
So here's what I ask. If this finds you in a place where it's appropriate, take a minute to lift our team up to Jesus in prayer. Ask him to prepare our hearts, our minds, our words, and the hearts of the people we'll meet.
Then I'll be sure we're ready.
I have to keep reminding myself of the appropriate words of Bob Marley: "Don't worry about a thing, cause every little thing is gonna be alright."

"Bomit"

2009-08-01T11:50:00.000-04:00

I sometimes wonder how many people actually care about how God works in my life. I ask myself why I even take the time to publish it all in a blog, but then I pray that what happens with me would somehow be used by God to open someone's eyes. After that, I have no choice but to share God's awesome grace and mercy as it reveals itself in my life on a daily basis.

I use this a lot, I know, but there are so many thoughts pulsing through my head at this moment. Most of these thoughts have be talked out (college students present at tonight's meeting know what I'm talking about) and all that's left is to wait for the action that goes along with all the talk. I do feel, however, that I need to just let some things go. There are some things that need to be said. They're random, unrelated, and may not make sense. I'm going to just...through them out there. You may have heard the term "Word Vomit (or bomit, as my cousin says)." Hope you're ready.

These past few months have been the hardest of my life thus far. I've seen disappointment and hurt like I've never seen before, but I still look around and realize how blessed I am to have the life I live. Things could be so much harder.

I've altered my definition of friendship. I've realized, I'm not here to make you happy. I'm here to encourage you. I'm here to spur you on. I'm here to point you towards God. That's not always easy nor fun. The flip side is, you're to do those things for me too. If you aren't willing, that's fine. I know someone who is.
I've realized what it's like to be helpless. Up to this point I've been able to fix most things in life. It's a real shocker when there's absolutely nothing you can do but pray. Waiting on God is the hardest thing I've ever had to do.

I've come to appreciate people who love Jesus, and not just the Heaven He offers after death. There's nothing like a friend who knows what it's like to run after Jesus everyday when he/she wakes up.
I've learned what it's like to eat your pride, to humble yourself, and to do what's right for God's Kingdom. To put it bluntly, it sucks. One of the largest mistakes you can make, however, is to be arrogant enough to stand in God's way.

Finally, I have become thankful that Jesus pursues me in my sin. He knows I screw up. He runs hard after me anyway. That's love.

I don't know what all of it means. I know I'm being taught something. I pray that I'm watching hard enough to learn from every bit of life's struggles.

I know there are more coming. Thank goodness we're in this together.

The Truth, The Whole Truth...

2009-05-11T14:51:00.003-04:00

Have you ever been lied to, and knew the whole time what was really happening? It's a sickening feeling to know when someone's trying to "pull one over" on you while looking you in the face...

I'll be honest. It disgusts me when I watch people walk into the church or youth house and worship with their eyes closed, and the become a different person when they leave the church. I hate to watch someone worship like they care about God's voice in their lives, but then completely ignore that voice when they decide it doesn't line up with what THEY want. My question is, who do you think you're fooling?

Can you imagine? This fake-ness makes me sick, but can you imagine how it makes God feel? You're lying to His face, and HE KNOWS THE TRUTH. Once again, who do you think you're fooling?

Try lying to me or fooling me all you want. The bottome line is, you AREN'T fooling God, and most of the time, you aren't fooling anyone else either.

Just a little bit of information for you:

"Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs."

Luke 12:1-3

Maybe this will help:

"Watch yourselves carefully so you don't get contaminated with Pharisee yeast, Pharisee phoniness. You can't keep your true self hidden forever; before long you'll be exposed. You can't hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can't whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public; the day's coming when those whispers will be repeated all over town."

The Message

Get real...really...

Do You Remember?

2009-05-11T12:15:00.007-04:00

Now for the hard part...

Is it really?

Do you remember?

Mirror, Mirror

2009-04-29T01:04:00.004-04:00

In a strange turn of events, I was talking to a friend who is a part of a faith a little different than mine. I was explaining what I did for a job at Ebenezer, and somehow he come up with a description of who I was. His question caught me off guard, but he said, "So...basically...you're paid to be perfect?"

I didn't know how to answer the question at first. I've jokingly told close friends that, "I'm as close to perfect as you're gonna get." The truth is, I'm far from perfect. I've made a bit of a hypocrite of myself today, and so I'm going to do things a little differently. Most of my blogs are about other people. This one's about me...and my imperfections.

There are a lot of things that I do wrong in God's eyes, but tonight I'm focusing on the times I've wronged you. These apply to REAL people and I'll continue to add/edit the list. You'll know who you are...

I'm sorry for lying to your face. Not telling the truth seemed like the easiest option
I'm sorry for pushing too hard, for making you feel small, or for making you feel like the world's problems were all your fault.
I'm sorry for focusing too much on myself to think about you. Selfish...
I'm sorry for wasting your time. I should have never let it happen.
I'm sorry for ignoring you when you needed me.
I'm sorry judging your character and making assumptions. They aren't my place to make.
I'm sorry if you thought I was out to get you. I'm a little pushy at times. I want nothing but the best.
I'm sorry for my pity parties.
I'm sorry for prying.
I'm sorry for forgetting about you...or making you feel like you didn't matter..
I'm sorry for ignoring the truth.
I'm sorry for not speaking up.
I'm sorry for not loving you the way a friend should.

And the list goes on...

I'm working on telling you to your face.

I'm praying you can forgive me and that you can ask for forgiveness in your life too.

Look at yourself in the mirror and see that you're not perfect, then look in the mirror and see that Christ covers it all.

Forgive as Christ forgives.

Praise Jesus for reflections.

The List

2009-04-28T10:22:00.000-04:00

Today's one of those days...a day where I don't know what to say, but can't just say nothing. I guess it's time to...start a list.

Some things I've realized lately:

1. People love the easy way out. It's something I've always known, and even done myself, but people give up way to easily on a life that reflects God.

2. Honesty makes people mad. Not just a little angry, but MAD. Why? I'll never know...

3. People are NOT always who you think they are. Once again, it's something I've always known, but I thought I was a pretty good judge of character. I guess my "judger" is broken.

4. People love themselves WAY too much. "Sacrifice? What's that? Oh...only the action that got your behind saved from an eternity in hell." I'd say it's pretty important.

5. A lot of people like to blame things on the people who follow the commands in God's Word. Things get hard while following God's will, so it must be the pastor's fault. It must be my accountability partner's fault. Maybe you should try following the Word of God for a while. There isn't any arguing with that.

I'm so frustrated with people.

Here's the point. WAKE UP! If you claim to be a follower of Christ, you have a job to do. First, you are to DENY YOURSELF! Get over you! THIS IS NOT ABOUT YOU! This is about carrying Christ's salvation to a world who is desperate for it!

Second, you lay down your life for your friends. Sacrifice. Encourage. Hold accountable. LOVE.

Most importantly, pursue God with your whole heart. Don't give up when things get hard, or when your will doesn't always line up with God's. He loves you more than YOU love yourself, and He's on your side...fighting for you. "God and ANY other person is an overwhelmingly powerful team."

You can win the fight...you just have to try.

"He will ask nothing from us
But demand we give our all."

Resolution

2009-04-23T01:01:00.002-04:00

On the way to lunch today, David and I were discussing the series finale of a popular television show. He explained how the show ended with a black screen, leaving the audience clueless as to the outcome of the characters. In discussing the close of the show, I stated how I wasn't a huge fan of endings like this one. I'm a huge fan of resolution. I started thinking about how far this desire for resolution went into my life.

I can't stand to have an issue hanging over my head. I like to leave things neat and tidy (maybe part of my OCD tendencies), but recently, I've had to wait for that resolution to come to me.

In several situations lately, the issues and conflicts grew deeper every single day. Feelings were hurt, things were said, and everyone lost focus. All it took was one person spreading the "honesty bug" for things to turn around. Conflict FINALLY gave way to what appears to be resolution. This made room for the really important stuff. It allowed people to hear God's voice. We often forget that we're a very small part of a very large story. This saga isn't about us, but we become so prideful that we won't admit when we're wrong, even if that means ignoring God's voice for a while.

It's so important that we swallow that pride and work our hardest to eliminate the distraction of conflict. Forget about yourself, and begin preaching Christ.

What conflict are you too prideful to handle? What conflict is keeping you from hearing God's voice?

Start listening...

Amid the Mess

2009-04-22T10:30:00.001-04:00

Through the mess lately, I've been very willing to share the discouraging things going on in my life, but despite the junk, there have been some great things happening too.

There have been a lot of days that left me feeling like I had very few people to depend on. I felt like no one cared, and that no one would really be there for me if I needed them. Through the rough few weeks recently, I've heard from people I least expected. They would call, text, or message me just to check on me. It felt great. I'm not sure they'll know how much I appreciate it.

In addition, I see people (more like one person) taking steps to maturity. To becoming adults...a lesson some people need to learn from.

In a conversation with a friend, we sat down and were honest and open. They were excited about quiet times, and realized the need for a change in habits. It's one of the few times I feel like I'm getting through.

And on a different note:

If you want me to respect you, you'll have to work for it. Here's your chance...

Fair? Hardly...

2009-04-20T17:02:00.004-04:00

If you've spent any time with me over the past year and a half, you've seen that I'm a pretty honest person. I thought that was a good thing, and I guess I still do...I just sit back and wonder sometimes why it always seems to backfire.

I love for people to be honest with me. I may defend myself at first, but I'll always think back on what you've said and appreciate your honesty.

Not all people feel that way.

I guess I'm almost honest to a fault. If you're wrong, I'm going to tell you. If I don't agree, you'll know. For some reason...that makes people mad.

The Bible says :

"Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people."

-Proverbs 11:3 (NLT)

In other words, dishonesty ruins people, while honesty keeps people on track.

If that's the case, why does it seem that I'm always the one who gets the shaft?

I have to keep reminding myself that the "honest, right track" I work so hard to follow is the one that will lead me to God, and that the "dishonest" track will leave its followers wondering..."What happened?"

"Time"

2009-04-07T11:30:00.003-04:00

Life over the past few weeks has been nothing short or crazy. I've had no time to blog and hardly any time to Twitter. Big deal for me...

Things haven't been easy for me over the past few weeks, and my stress level has been through the roof. Most of the things happening recently are things I only wish I could talk about, but that's not an option. As hard as it's been, God is teaching and showing me some amazing things. I'm learning a lot about who people REALLY are. I'm learning about peoples' REAL motives. I've been learning who I can REALLY depend on, and sadly enough...the list is short. As much as I hate that, I'm learning to depend on God for any and all things. I'm learning to be comfortable alone...not easy.

I'm also seeing some extremely encouraging aspects of peoples' lives. I see a SMALL group of people developing a love and a passion for their Savior...not much beats that.

Our next step: Invest harder...

Uhh...

2009-03-25T09:46:00.003-04:00

It's been almost two whole weeks since I blogged last, and to be honest, I'm not quite sure how to get back in the swing of it. The easiest thing is just to update you guys on some things that have been going on with me...and some close friends...lately.

Since the last time I blogged, I started a new job in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at McLeod Regional Medical Center here in Florence. The bottom line is...I LOVE IT! The days are long, and the hours are strange, but all in all...it's a great job.

This past week, a friend and I had a "discussion" where I did most of the talking/fussing...for the second time in a week. After working things out between us, we're both moving forward towards the goal of completely relying on God to get us through the day. Two days later, God used both of us to lead a friend to Christ. We were both on the verge of tears, knowing that God trusted us enough to be a part of the most important and momentous day in our friends life...HE WAS GOING TO HEAVEN! We sat down with this new brother in Christ a couple of days later to talk about accountability and about living a life that reflects God. After 5 hours, we finally called it a day. What an amazing fellowship.

Now, the personal stuff. As you all know...I screw up all the time. I'm human...and with that comes sin. I'm thanking God for His salvation, grace, and love for me...in that while I am still a sinner...Christ died for me.

I'm forgiven...

I Do.

2009-03-12T00:20:00.000-04:00

God takes no pleasure in foolish gabble. Vow it, then do it.
Far better not to vow in the first place than to vow and not pay up.

Ecclesiastes 5

-The Message

Are You Serious?

2009-03-09T14:08:00.002-04:00

If you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

-Colossians 3:1-2

The Message

God of this City

2009-03-07T21:44:00.002-05:00

As I sit in my newly cleaned room, I can see out my window to one of the busiest streets in Florence. Being the "city" lover that I am, I love to sit and watch traffic and people go past. While sitting here today, I couldn't help but wonder how many of those people had never even heard the great news about Christ. Sure, we live in the "Bible Belt" where there's a church on every corner, but the buildings don't share the glorious, saving resurrection of Christ with passersby.

Chis Tomlin's Song God of this City came to mind.

For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater thing have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City

Greater things are yet to come. God has great things for this city. He wants us to be a part of it. He wants us to make Him the God of THIS city. I'm pretty sure it's time we step up to the plate and change this place.

"Here I Go Again"

2009-03-04T18:30:00.002-05:00

Father, hear my prayer
I need the perfect words
Words that he will hear
And know they're straight from You
I don't know what to say
I only know it hurts
To see my only friend slowly fade away

So maybe this time I'll speak the words of life
With Your fire in my eyes
But that old familiar fear is tearing at my words
What am I so afraid of?
'Cause here I go again
Talkin 'bout the rain
And mulling over things that won't live past today
And as I dance around the truth
Time is not his friend
This might be my last chance to tell him
That You love Him
But here I go again, here I go again

-Casting Crowns

Who? Me?

2009-03-03T23:00:00.002-05:00

Lately, my friend Hunter and I have been talking about this issue a lot. In fact, check out his blog to see what he says about it.

Have you ever met one of those people who was "never wrong?" There's nothing that gets me mad as fast as someone who thinks they ALWAYS know best.

There have been several times in my life when I've confronted people about excessive pride and arrogance. Amid a lot of other justifications and rationalizations, there is one excuse that ALWAYS finds it way in. "Everyone stuggles with pride."

Here's what God had to say about that:

"I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence;
I possess knowledge and discretion.
¹³ To fear the LORD is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance,
evil behavior and perverse speech.
¹⁴ Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have understanding and power.
¹⁵ By me kings reign
and rulers make laws that are just;
¹⁶ by me princes govern,
and all nobles who rule on earth."

Proverbs 8:12-16

Did you see verse 13?

God hates pride. Do you really want to be a part of something God hates? That's sin...

If that hasn't convinced you maybe this will:

"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
Proverbs 16:18

If we don't humble ourselves, God will do it for us.

God's words...

Philippians 4:4-7

2009-03-03T19:07:00.000-05:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 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. "

"Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute! Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life!"

"Freut euch Tag für Tag, dass ihr zum Herrn gehört. Und noch einmal will ich es sagen: Freut euch! Alle Menschen sollen eure Güte und Freundlichkeit erfahren. Der Herr kommt bald! Macht euch keine Sorgen! Ihr dürft Gott um alles bitten. Sagt ihm, was euch fehlt, und dankt ihm! Und Gottes Friede, der all unser Verstehen übersteigt, wird eure Herzen und Gedanken im Glauben an Jesus Christus bewahren."

"Alégrense siempre en el Señor. Insisto: ¡Alégrense! Que su amabilidad sea evidente a todos. El Señor está cerca. No se inquieten por nada; más bien, en toda ocasión, con oración y ruego, presenten sus peticiones a Dios y denle gracias. Y la paz de Dios, que sobrepasa todo entendimiento, cuidará sus corazones y sus pensamientos en Cristo Jesús.

"Reverse, Reverse"

2009-03-03T00:37:00.004-05:00

I'm of the belief that you should notice God's work in your life on a daily basis, so I'm trying something a little different today. Don't worry...the old way of blogging will make it's return tomorrow, but tonight, I want to hear from you. I want to know at least one way you saw God today.

I want to hear about those small little moments in which you saw God's hand.

Leave your message in a comment. I can't wait to hear about His work.

The B-I-B-L-E

2009-02-28T20:20:00.002-05:00

You know how the song goes, right? "Yes, that's the book for me! I stand alone on the Word of God..."

Over the past several months, I dove DEEP into God's word, exploring it for myself, listening for God's message for me. I've discovered amazing and unbelievable things about myself, about God, and about God's plan, hopes, and desires for me. I've discovered great peace from hearing the Words of God. I've learned more about who God is. I've learned what I am to do as a follower of His. I've come to love and cherish the Word of God. It really is the Book for me...

There's a part I'm missing though. Do you realize how hard it is to "stand alone on the Word of God?" There's nothing wrong with listening to a friends advice, or talking to your parents about a decision, but at the end of the day...what's Biblical? God had a message for us in His Word. It's solid enough for us to stand on it...We have to step up, take the time, and hear it.

I keep telling myself that I have to rely on His unwavering plan, to trust in His unshakable hand, and learn to lean on God's unchanging Word. The B-I-B-L-E

Keep It Up

2009-02-26T23:55:00.002-05:00

I lie in bed at night and think about the difference I made that day. I wonder what I did to impact someone since the last time I went to sleep. It's a habit I've had for years, and recently I sat up for hours, thinking about each person I had invested in over my life. I looked at where they are now and wondered...what am I doing wrong? I take it very personally.

After discussing it with a friend, I went back to my apartment to relax and spend a little time with God. As I walked in, I greeted Kyle with a very honest hello and explanation: "To be honest, I'm in a really bad mood. I'm spending time with God and going to bed." His response, "Ok! I'm here if you wanna talk." That was it for the night.

When I woke up the next day, I went about my normal routine of getting ready. As I walked out the door, I noticed an index card with my name on it. On the card, Kyle had written a verse. Kyle knew NOTHING about the situation, but here's what the verse said:

"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
1 Corinthians 15:58

Encouraging was not the word. I instantly burst into tears. I couldn't wait to tell someone.

I laid out to God my heart that night. He knew where I stood. I'm so thankful He used Kyle to show me where He stood too. Time to stand firm...

Renewed...

2009-02-23T22:51:00.003-05:00

Every now and then, there are small snippets of God's greatness that I need to be reminded of. Here's the story:

I was making my way along the six hour journey to my parent's house in VA. I always dread the drive, but this time something was different. I was encouraged, and in a fairly good mood. I had slept very little the night before (due to pure excitement), and so my mind began to wander. I started praying for a lot of things, and before long, I had a full praise and worship service right there in my car.

I was also texting a friend (not smart...I know), and we began discussing how God was working in the world around us. The more I thought about it, the more amazed I became. I started thinking about the fact that I had been spending time with God for six hours, across three states. He was there the entire time. He was the same God in VA as He was in SC. He's the same God in India, as He is in the United States. Do you realize how amazing that is?

He's the same God that created Earth. He's the same God that created Adam and Eve. He's the same God that led the Isrealites out of Egypt. He's the same God that sent his Son to the Earth. He's the same God that raised that Son out of death. He's the same God that saves ME from the pits of Hell. He's the same God that had led me down the path He has chosen for me. He's the same God today as tomorrow. THE SAME GOD.

It goes farther...it's a different same. There has ALWAYS been God. There is NOTHING else that has ALWAYS been.

He's the same God we serve. He's the same God we have communion with. He's the same God who wants us. He's the same God who loves us. He's the same God we talk and walk with.

He's the same God...

One for the Road

2009-02-22T11:08:00.003-05:00

I'm working hard to get things ready for my trip back to SC in the next little while, but this has been on my mind ALL night. If I don't write it down now, it'll drive me crazy for the six hour drive back to Florence. The thoughts haven't been processed completely...and it many not make sense.

In the midst of everything that's been that's been going on, another thing has really been bothering me. The Bible tells us in Hebrews, that we should look for ways to spur one another on. We are to encourage one another and help each other move towards God's goal and will for us.

Here's where all this comes from...

A friend of mine confessed a struggle they were presently dealing with. Another friend was aware of this struggle, but places friend "A" in situations where there are temptations and opportunities to stumble. WRONG!

When you sin against your brothers in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall.
1 Corinthians 8:12-13

If you cause your brother or sister in Christ to stumble, not only are you sinning against your brother or sister, you are sinning against God.

If you know what your friends are dealing with, it is your JOB to spur them on...it is your JOB to help remove stumbling blocks from their lives...

If you don't...you WILL be held accountable.

Patience...and Waiting.

2009-02-21T21:21:00.003-05:00

Patience is one of those lessons that, no matter how many times God has tried to teach me, I still don't have it.

There isn't a day that goes by that I'm not constantly reminded of my inability to wait patiently. I'm the one who ALWAYS gets stopped at yellow lights, ALWAYS gets stopped by funeral processions, who's food order ALWAYS takes longer than expected, and who always let's everyone know when I'm tired of waiting. It's all so frustrating, but none of it is all that life changing.

These past few weeks, God stepped it up a little. The lesson changed from patience to waiting.

I'm a fixer. I want to fix everyone's problems. I want everyone to understand what it means to be real and honest. I want everyone to have a DEEP relationship with God. I want to do it all for them. The problem is...that's not possible. Lately, I have been getting extremely discouraged with a friend's progress. I didn't know how to handle the lack of change, so I just...removed myself from the situation.

It was hard.

I wanted to fix it...THEN...

The thing was, I had to wait for God to step in and make the change.

There was nothing I could have done without God's help, and the bottom line was, God wasn't ready.

Honestly, the few days I spent waiting for God was pure torture, but God had my well being in mind. Just when I thought I couldn't wait any longer, God answered my prayers. God worked in my friend's life, opening their eyes. I tried to figure out what purpose my waiting had...and it came pretty clearly.

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

Not only does patience come with waiting on God, but a strength to continue trusting Him with your life every single day...a strength I needed to be reminded of.

I promise you, it was WELL worth it.

Missing Today for Tomorrow

2009-02-20T09:31:00.003-05:00

Any of you who have known me for longer than...15 min. know that, in most areas of my life, I'm a planner. I like to think that over the years I've developed the ability to "go with the flow" on occasion, but overall...I like to have a plan. In most situations, this is a great character trait. Over the past few days, however, I've come to realize a VERY LARGE flaw with this part of my personality.

Some days, I'm so focused on tomorrow that I forget about today. I forget to invest in relationships. I forget to focus on school. I forget to care for myself. I forget to hear God. The bottom line is, it's wrong...and sinful. It's time to let God worry about tomorrow.

I'm begging you to think about this with me. Don't be too busy and focused on tomorrow that you forget to think about today. I'm realizing that when tomorrow is my focus, I miss God's will for my life THIS day, THIS hour, and even this VERY moment.

Pray with me...pray that God will reveal His will for you today, and that we'll wake up everyday wondering what God has for you THAT day...instead of tomorrow.

Scratch That...

2009-02-19T23:57:00.006-05:00

I've been sitting here all day thinking about what tonight's (I've been told I write better at night) blog was going to be about. I had a whole list of issues that I want to discuss with you guys, and I really couldn't decide which one was best. I even sat down with my friends Wyatt and Kristen and had them vote for the best one! It's funny how God can completely change your plans.

Here's the new topic...

GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!!!!!!

If you focus yourself on God, and His will, your prayers will always be answered. Mine were tonight. It is such an exciting feeling! I'm sitting here WIDE AWAKE, unable to sleep, thinking about the power of God. I'm ashamed that I ever doubted, but God's love covers that too.

I can't wait to spend time in prayer with almost 80 students in less than 7 hours...

I'm not sure I need to say anything else. God speaks for Himself.

Left Behind

2009-02-18T22:31:00.004-05:00

Have you ever wished for the rapture? Have you ever sat at your desk before a test praying, "God just take me now!" I know I have, but have you ever thought about what it's really going to be like?

I was talking to a friend LATE last night, and because of my exhausted and uncontrollable mind, the conversation turned towards that day. We wondered what things would look and feel like, and what we would leave behind. I don't know the answers to those questions. I do know, however, that one day I'll be in Heaven for an ETERNITY with GOD not wanting or wishing for ANYTHING!!!!! There will be no pain and no WORRY. Not hunger, nor thirst! I'm going to be hanging out with the same God who created the Earth, who parted the Red Sea, who spoke through a burning bush and brought plagues upon Egypt, who healed the blind and lame, who sent His Son to this Earth to die to provide this very opportunity, WHO RAISED PEOPLE FROM THE DEAD!

The really cool part is, you can too! I write, sometimes, assuming everyone who reads my blog has a relationship with Christ. The reality is, you may not. Would you like one? Interested in a God who would sacrifice His Son for you? Let me just say, He's interested in you, and I'd love to show you how.

I don't know the date, nor the time of Christ's return. I know that whether I'm watching from above because God has called me home, or I'm rising up with the other followers left on Earth, it's going to be GREAT, and I want you there with me. Whoever you are, I'd be honored to tell you about my love, and most importantly, God's love for you...

Here's how: E-mail me anytime. MLNSC@aol.com

I'm praying for you. PLEASE don't be left behind.

Not So Independent Study

2009-02-08T09:50:00.006-05:00

I remember a couple of months ago, a friend and I got into a "discussion" about what Satan would use to distract us. I am of the belief that Satan will use ANYTHING to distract us, to make us take our eyes off of God, and I wonder how often we look for the ways Satan is trying to throw us off balance.

We go through our days, blaming our distractions on things like A.D.D. and other disorders which medically explain why we can't hear God's voice, but how hard do we work?

Over the past several weeks, I've been looking hard for Satan's work in the world around me. I've been looking for his distractions, in order to fight harder, and to recognize the ways that Satan tempts me.

I've realized some things that I probably should have guessed, but never thought about until now.

Satan sinks low: He'll use a pen clicking in church, or a student tapping you on the shoulder to ask if they can use the restroom. ANYTHING to draw your attention for a split second.

Satan uses unexpected relationships: He uses relationships to draw you off, relationships with Godly people. Frustration with friends and rough patches are all he needs to pull your focus off of God.

Satan knows me well: He gets me...too well.

The great thing is, I've learned a lot about God too.

God raises the bar: No matter how low Satan sinks, God always raises you up...higher.

God uses unexpected relationships: You never know who's waiting behind the scenes to encourage you, build you up, and to hold you accountable to God's standards.

God knows me: He knows me better.

I'm training myself to recognize Satan's distraction, while training myself to focus harder on God...Dang...does it feel good.

Just a Reminder...

2009-02-04T22:59:00.004-05:00

How often do you thank God for your church? Do we ever take the time to realize what life would be like without it?

I look at my youth and my childhood, realizing how much of an impact my church family made on my life. Life was happier, and times were much more encouraging when church was a focus.

It breaks my heart to think about the fact that some people don't have that. That's why God had placed a heavy desire and calling on my heart. For the past few months, I can think of very little besides my new goal of being a part of a church plant one day. I feel such a draw towards being used by God to provide a community and a body for people who have never experienced the love of God's church. Some of us aren't called to that though...

Here's what you can do, though. You, if you're involved in a church that already exists, can do your part. In visiting churches with my parents over the last few years, I've come to realize some very important characteristics of churches. It is SO important to make visitors feel loved and welcomed when they walk in the door. It's important to provide places for people to serve and to use the talents they have been given.

Pray for those people searching for a place to plug into God's community. Pray about how you can encourage and welcome them as they enter your place of worship.

Lastly, don't forget to thank God for giving you such a place.

Again...

2009-02-03T23:06:00.003-05:00

So I'm working through a lot of things in my life these days, but here's another thing that I've learned that I felt I needed to share with you guys.

In a seminar on relationships this past weekend, Clayton King spoke some great truths from God. There's one thing that stuck out above all the rest.

He said, "There are temptations that you fight, and there are some that you flee from. You have to know the difference. You need to learn to run. NONE of us can FIGHT sexual temptation."

The thing is, this advice applies to SO many aspects of our lives. Why do we wait until we're on the verge of sinning against God before we start asking for help? Shouldn't we be fleeing from those temptations? Shouldn't we put things in place to keep us from getting that far? That's what accountability is for. It's not for consoling AFTER you screw up. It's to keep you from getting THAT FAR!

Think about the temptations in your life that you need to flee from. Tell an accountability partner what your struggles are, so they can help you "flee." Pray hard that God will help you know the difference.

Why not?

2009-02-03T22:36:00.003-05:00

To be honest, I'm not the kind of person who hides their feelings about someone. Most of the time, if I like you, you'll know it, but I've been reading everyone else's frustration blog, so I figured I would try it. Now, since I'm an honest person, if you want to know which one you are, just ask. Here's what I'm thinking:

1. I love that we've become great friends. I'm so proud of the "investor" you've become. I hate that you're an hour away, but hey, that's what phones are for!
2. I hate that our friendship has faded. I know you're distracted by so many things. Just wish they were worth it.
3. I think you have a lot of work to do before you begin your career in ministry. You're prideful and slightly arrogant...things that don't work in missions.
4. I think you've changed so much. People who don't even know God have noticed. Not good.
5. I think you're freaking fun! I miss our random Wal-Mart trips, and our Rita's days. I hate that you're 5 hours away, but am SO excited you're following God's will for your life.
6. I think you're stupid for not running as far away from your temptations as you can. Period.
7. I love you and I think you're a smart kid, but have spread yourself way too thin. No wonder you feel like you can't get your spiritual walk right. You don't make time. I wish you would WAKE UP! You're a blast to hang out with, but I really don't like to be ignored.
8. I think you need to take some time to yourself. You can't fix everyone's problems.
9. I think you're awesome. You can't let things bother you as much though.
10. You need to WAKE UP too! I hope things really changed for you recently!
11. I miss you. You're in another country. COME HOME!
12. This one applies to A LOT of people. Confront your issues. I promise there will be less drama if you do.

Finally...

2009-02-03T21:58:00.003-05:00

I know you've been ANXIOUSLY awaiting my thoughts on this past weekend. I've been collecting those thoughts for the past few days, but I can't promise that they'll make much sense.

As I've said, the theme for the weekend was invest. The first evening was an amazing time with God. I know God was speaking directly to me, and yet, the person next to me was feeling God's voice speaking directly to her! That in itself was a humbling time for me. Realizing that God is all powerful will QUICKLY put you in your place! Clayton King began the weekend talking about our investments in people. As you can probably tell from my past blogs, that's something I've been struggling to figure out.

Our scripture came from Mark Chapter 2. I'm sure your familiar with the story, but it's the story of a paralytic and his friends, who carry him to see Jesus. Clayton pointed out how the friends investment paid off for their friend. His sins were forgiven, and he was healed of his condition.

Here's the main point. If we want to invest in people like Jesus did, there are several points we need to remember.

1. Be ready to break a sweat-You'll have to work. This may mean some discomfort. It won't be easy.
2. Don't take no for an answer. It's not about giving people what they want. It's about giving what they need.
3. You must be willing to take the big risks-What's the worst that could happen?
4. Move forward with or without approval.

I know this might be boring for some of you, but...I promise there's more.

Further Thought.

2009-02-01T01:03:00.005-05:00

This past weekend was an amazing time for so many college students around South Carolina. In talking with some of the students traveling with my group, it was awesome to hear stories of what God was saying in their lives. The amazing part was that most of us had never experienced answers from God that were this clear. The voice of God was present and BOOMING. There was no doubt in our minds that God was speaking to us, and the directions were clear.

INVEST

There are so many ways in which we can invest in the Kingdom of God. Some of us are called to full time ministry within the United States. Some of us are called to provide churches and places to worship for people who have no such place. Some are called to minister to people who may not be open to the Gospel. Some of us are called to disciple in those relationships we have already created. None of these are easy, but easy isn't part of the deal.

To be completely honest, there is SO much more that I want to share with you about this weekend, and I promise it will come (I'm waiting on some notes from a friend). Until then, look for ways you can invest your time, efforts, passion, and love into an eternal investment. We are ALL called.

Converge Collegiate Conference 2009

2009-01-30T23:45:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting here in my lovely room at the Embassy Suites in North Myrtle Beach thinking about what's already happened here at Converge this weekend. It's so amazing when God speaks directly to you while also speaking so personally to the person beside you. I'm planning on sharing with you what our PASTOR Clayton King shared from God tonight, but quite honestly, I'm still processing.

To give you a little clue, I'll let you in on the theme for the weekend. It's "Invest."

Please just continue to pray for us this weekend. Pray that we'll allow God to use us. Pray that God will build us and make us the person He wants us to be. Pray that we'll be real.

Stay tuned for the really good stuff.

A Little More than you Bargained For...

2009-01-29T23:13:00.003-05:00

I know all of you have been dying to get to know me a little better...so...here ya go!

1. I love acting. Get me in front of people with a script and I'll be absolutely giddy.
2. Music was my first passion. I've been in a choral group since I was in the third grade.
3. I absolutely LOVE people. I can't stand being alone most of the time.
4. I have OCD tendencies. I can't stand odd numbers or when things aren't symmetrical.
5. I love Zaxby's. Don't ever ask me where I want to go eat if you don't want me to give that answer.
6. I'm easily frustrated and will gladly list those frustrations for you.
7. I have to have one person that I spend most of my time with. I go crazy if it doesn't happen.
8. I'm a worrier. Bottom line.
9. There are several words that gross me out. I'll also be glad to list those for you.
10. I love to drive other people's cars
11. I love to read, but I'll only read 2 kinds of books. Mysteries and Christian Living...
12. I love hugs but have only developed this passion within the past year or so. Crazy...I know
13. I love to hear people problems.
14. If I could change one thing about my personality, I would love to be more encouraging.
15. I'm addicted to my cell phone.
16. At some point in my life, I've wanted to do every profession imaginable.
17. I love being outdoors, another passion I've developed withing the last three years or so.
18. I can't STAND being ignored or lied to. BIG PET PEEVE.
19. I'm honest and most of the time pretty blunt. A lot of people don't like it...
20. I believe people can change, but get pretty discouraged when they don't.
21. I love Emergency Rooms, as long as I'm not the patient. Sometimes I crave an evening in the ER.
22. I LOVE to talk. Get me started and I'll go for days.
23.I'm a control freak. I don't do committees well...
24. I am completely ineffective when it comes to sports...That's why I don't even try.
25. I am crazy in love with the God who has saved me. I hope people can see that in my life.

For Real?

2009-01-28T22:42:00.007-05:00

According to a friend, I held back in my last blog. In order to compensate, I'm going to lay it out there for you a little. I'm going to let you know how I feel about a few things lately. I'm trying to be nice. I cannot promise, however, that I won't get "fired up" in the process of writing.

A few weeks ago, our youth ministry came back from a retreat that changed lives. I know the few days changed my life as well as the lives of some of my really close friends. Here's the kicker. On the return trip, everyone, as usual, was discussing the changes they were going to make in their lives upon their arrival back in Florence. People were confessing struggles, being honest, and asking people for accountability. I was so excited, hoping for things to be different this time. We got back to Florence and had a great share session at church that night. People were excited and pumped about going back to school. I had great conversations on Facebook, and it all seemed so genuine. Maybe it was...but...

Monday came...

Once again, to be completely fair, some people did last longer. Some are still walking the path God is laying out for them, but that's not the point.

This is what I really don't understand. If you're really changed, how do you let the same CRAP distract you and pull you from God's path THE VERY NEXT DAY?? How can you slip back into that same lukewarm lifestyle with your same routine less than 24 hours after hearing God's call for change? Do you even realize how much of an oxymoron that really is? A LUKEWARM CHRISTIAN?? REALLY?!?

People asked me to hold them accountable in their efforts to change. A step in the right direction, right? Ready for the issue? When I did try to hold them accountable, they got mad, they didn't listen, they got irritated, and completely ignored my attempts at help. Hey...CHECK OUT HEBREWS CHAPTER 10 AND JAMES CHAPTER 5! Once again...REALLY?!? It's so frustrating to see someone ask for change in their lives and then be completely opposed when it comes time for the work. Bottom line...IT WON'T BE HANDED TO YOU!!! As much as I want to GIVE that to you, I can't. You have to WORK!

Next...Just so you're aware, there are VERY FEW things in this life that tick me off more than being lied to. I don't care how mad you think I'll get from hearing the truth, I promise it'll be worse if I find out a lie. Some people are VERY close to finding that out.

I'm sorry if this was "too personal," but that's what blogging is all about, right?

Now you know...

To close I just want to say this. I love you...whoever you are...

Lost...

2009-01-28T01:32:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I posted, but I've waited this long because I was afraid this blog would have been a little too personal. I hope I've toned it back a little, but the truth is, some of you may read this blog and know without a doubt that I'm talking about you...I hope you enjoy it anyway.

Over the past few weeks, my mind has been pulled in THOUSANDS of directions. Between school, work at the church, relationships, and a vast array of other things, I could hardly tell whether I was coming or going. In the midst of the craziness, things about Florence just seemed to loose that "feel right-ness." I'm not sure what the culprit was, but things just didn't feel like they were working for me.

Other things about the past few weeks really had me down and discouraged. I was angry and hurt, and was NOT in a good mood. Naturally, being the worrier and pessimist that I am, I allowed Satan to use these things to completely tear me down. I was miserable, reaching out for someone to just ask about my day, to care about how things were in my life. I love my job, and I love hearing about peoples struggles. I love offering advice and praying for a solution, but it's a funny thing. When you work for the church, so many people think you don't have problems and struggles of your own. They're completely content to unload their problems on your shoulders and go on about their day without the slightest consideration for your well-being.

So, here I am, feeling like I'm drowning and looking for someone to pull me up. I started searching for people I had helped with problems in hopes of finding someone who would return the favor.

I came up short.

To be completely fair, there were some who tried their best to help, but most of these people were not in Florence. A little too far away for an encouraging hug.

Now, for the point of my pity party.

I write all this to say, care about the people who pour into you on a consistent basis. Your leaders are people too! How often do we ask your pastor what you may pray for him about? How often do we ask the music minister what you can do to make his life easier?

We all need someone to care.

Wow...

2009-01-14T23:26:00.005-05:00

There has been alot going on at the church these past few days and weeks. Things that have taken a toll on my emotional state, and I KNOW have taken a toll on the rest of the church staff. When I hear stories of people struggling, I can't help but hurt and be discouraged.

It's scary how Satan will use those very things to distract ME from God. There were times this week when I could hardly finish my quiet times without thinking about the events of the week. Some made me mad and some just broke my heart.

One thing stands out above all the rest.

A 22 year old who had been attending our church lost hope.

I don't know what he was struggling with, but I know it was large enough to end his life.

Satan pushes so hard to convince us that the only escape from our problems and our past is death, but we can push back with Christ's new mercy, grace and salvation. In the Book of Micah it says: "Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light. Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the LORD's wrath, until he pleads my case and establishes my right. He will bring me out into the light; I will see his righteousness. Then my enemy will see it and will be covered with shame, she who said to me, "Where is the LORD your God?" My eyes will see her downfall; even now she will be trampled underfoot like mire in the streets."

Do you know what that means? That means that with God's help, one day your pushing will pay off. IT MEANS WE WIN!

We all know there are times when life isn't so "fun," but don't lose hope. Know that Satan will one day "be trampled underfoot like mire in the streets."

Don't you wanna stick around for that??

Frustrations

2009-01-12T11:51:00.003-05:00

Most of the time, I blog in a way that will hopefully be worth your time. This blog, however, may be a complete waste of your energy. I've been frustrated with alot of things recently, so now you get to share those with me. Some of these will be fun, but some are real frustrations. Just so you're aware.

1. One word text messages: You can say "sounds good" instead of "ok"...
2. People who drive below the speed limit in the left lane
3. People who don't use their turn signal
4. Professors who cancel class with a sign on the door: I could sleep longer!
5.When teachers take longer than two days to grade a test: It can't be that hard. YOU HAVE THE ANSWERS!!!
6.Wal-Mart's Check out: Enough Said...
7. People who don't text back fast enough: I've been guilty myself
8. People who call repeatedly and never leave a voicemail: Once again guilty myself
9. People who read the Bible everyday like it's a chore: I look forward to it EVERYDAY!
10. People who expect you to pray for them, but don't pray themselves
11. People who don't want change in their lives
12. People who feel sorry for themselves: Guilty on occasion
13. People who ditch your plans when something better comes along.
14. Odd numbers
15. How everyone disappears around here during baseball season.

I assure you there's more, but I'll spare you the rest and save them from another day. Feel free to comment and let me know that I'm crazy.

The Best Policy

2009-01-09T19:37:00.004-05:00

After coming back from winter retreat there have been some AMAZING conversations with adults, college students, high school students, and jr. high students. It's been great to witness what people are hearing from God within the last few days.

One of those conversations shifted towards the topic of honesty. In discussing what honesty was really like, a friend and I decided that honesty is one of the most cleansing and relieving things here on earth. When you're honest with yourself, other people, and most importantly God, there's this certain peace that comes. A peace that comes from the fact that you're not hiding anymore. You know what I'm talking about.

That said, why do we EVER feel the need to the the un-truth, the half truth, and everything but the truth?

Finding someone that you can share your struggles, your joy, and your "heart" is so very important. God gave us a desire to have relationships for a reason. As I've said before, James tells us that we are to confess our sins to one another, and pray for one another because the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

I challenge you today, this week, this month, this year, and this life to be honest with yourself, other people, and the God who knows it all already. Let down your pride and show everyone you're not perfect. I guarantee we know it already. I promise you'll be better off.

To Do List

2009-01-04T22:05:00.003-05:00

If someone asks me where I go to church, I always tell them we're the one with the Youth House. We're the one with the big gym. We're the one that goes on that crazy camping trip we call Deliverance. We're the one with the really cool t-shirts (Thanks to Justin McAlpin). The interesting thing is, that's the exact same way people choose their church, by what fun and exciting things are going on. Now, there is NOTHING wrong with having fun with fellow Christians or while worshiping God, but isn't there more to the church.? Paul shows us this in one of his letters. He writes to the church (get the relationship) of the Thessalonians. He says:

"Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil."

How do we live up to those guidelines? Do we encourage? Do we warn those who are idle? Do we ALWAYS live in peace? Do we pray CONTINUALLY?? And...are we patient with everyone?

It's our job as members of the body of Christ to take up these tasks, make them our goals, and live up to God's expectations for the church. It's not just the pastor's or the staff's job. It's up to you and it's up to me. We have to appeal to the world in order to create bonds and relationships, but we're more than a country club. Don't you think it's time we get started?

And We're Off!

2009-01-02T01:05:00.003-05:00

Well, believe it or not, it's 2009. That means Crash Ministries is headed off for Winter Retreat 2009. It's going to be a great time for fellowship, discipleship (That's for you Kali Benthall), and diving into the word. I wish all of you (no matter who you are) could be with us to experience God's message to us. Because you cannot, I'll update my blog every night so that you may share in the message of God. Pray for us as we travel, and as we prepare our hearts for what God has in store!

Please Note: This all depends on whether or not I have Internet access. Don't hate me if I can't post :)

In Case of Emergency

2008-12-31T10:57:00.005-05:00

There's a lot of talk these days about the economy and the state of our world, but we're gonna talk about it a little more today. When you think about it, this is actually an amazing opportunity for all of us. I'll explain...

As Americans we're taught from a young age to always have a backup plan, to always have a safety net in case things don't work out. We have retirement savings, 401K's (just learned what those were), and a lot of other padding, and then we complain about how small and superficial our faith in God is. We look at people in 3rd world countries and envy the passion they have for the Lord and wonder why we don't have the same thing. How many times have you put yourself in a situation where there is no back up plan? Do we place ourselves in situations where the only escape is God? How absurd is the fact that we try to have a back up plan for God..."just in case He doesn't come through." Now, don't hear that there's something wrong with saving money for the future, but those people in 3rd world countries love the Lord so deeply because He is the only one they can count on. They don't have the resources to create a back up plan and they place themselves in situations where He is their only escape.

Now, how does this relate to our economy? In the next few months we're not sure what things are going to look like. We may not have a choice but to fully depend on our Lord to be our escape plan. We may no longer have the resources to create the "padding" we're used to. This is an opportunity for us to become so in love with our Savior, because He is dependable, His plan is unwavering. He doesn't need backup.

Francis Chan discusses this topic and more in his book "Crazy Love." If you haven't read it, PLEASE check it out. It's worth your time.

"Unwavering"

2008-12-26T18:23:00.010-05:00

"Unwavering"

By: Matt Maher

Blessed are the poor
The kingdom is theirs
Alive in the promise
To be dead to the world
Blessed are the meek
In honor of your Father
The Word at your right hand
The Spirit of truth

Unwavering is your voice
Unwavering is your hand
Unwavering is the heart that bled for the sins of men
Unwavering is your will
Unwavering is your plan
The fount of salvation on which we will stand

Blessed are the righteous
On bended knee
Found in this freedom
Committed to you
Blessed are those who see
The heights of glory
Found in the valley
And suffering for you

Unwavering is your voice
Unwavering is your hand
Unwavering is the heart that bled for the sins of men
Unwavering is your will
Unwavering is your plan
The fount of salvation on which we will stand

Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet

Unwavering is your voice
Unwavering is your hand
Unwavering is the heart that bled for the sins of men
Unwavering is your will
Unwavering is your plan
The font of salvation on which we will stand

The font of salvation on which we will stand

Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet
Send us out to be your hands and feet

Love this song. It reminds me of how amazing and powerful our Lord's plan for our lives are. No matter the opposition, no matter the war, famine, economy, his plan still remains supreme. His hand holds it all.

Celebration of a Lifetime

2008-12-26T01:22:00.004-05:00

Like many of you, my family ALWAYS attends church on Christmas Eve, and of course, this year was no different. There is one thing that bothers me EVERY Christmas Eve. People whom you haven't seen since last Christmas Eve (or if you're lucky, Easter) seem to find their way back to the pews of the church. Now, don't get me wrong I'm glad they're there, but they just aren't getting it.

I think it's very important to celebrate the birth of Christ. I think it's very important to recognize the crucifixion of Christ. I think it's extremely important to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. That is, after all, what makes us different from the rest of the faiths out there. We serve a LIVING God, but, there are so many pages in between Christ's birth and resurrection that apply to our lives!

Many people loose interest in the Bible because they look at it as a book of answers. They think you can turn to the concordance in the back, search for your current struggle, and see the answer in big bold leaders. That's not the Bible's purpose. It's not the "Big Book of Tell Me Why." It answers questions, yes, but in a much different way. The Bible is a tool, and when we spend time in the word, reading, studying, and memorizing the life and words of Christ, we become more like him. We are closer to being the "Imitators of Christ" we are called to be. We handle our lives and our decisions in a way more like that of Christ. That's how the Bible guides us in our decisions.

And, while it is important to celebrate the birth, death, and the glorious resurrection of Christ, there are so many pages we can celebrate in our lives EVERY DAY in our journey to be more like Christ! We just have to open the Book.

Technology

2008-12-19T01:21:00.003-05:00

I spent hours today trying to find a new template for my blog. I wanted something cool and new...This is what I got...and I don't even like it.

Emancipation

2008-12-16T23:22:00.003-05:00

I've been struggling to find something to blog about for the past week, and nothing has really come to mind, but something has been on my mind most of the day that, I'd really like to work through. I have a friend that struggles with this one particular sin on a regular basis (and yes it really is a friend). I get so frustrated with him because there are a lot of days where he rationalizes and comes up with excuses to justify his sin. He'll say, "I had a bad day!" I get frustrated with myself because I feel as though I'm doing nothing to help. I wonder what I should be doing to "cure" him of this "slavery to sin."

When the Bible talks about accountability, James puts it quite simply: "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." When I read that I realize what my job as my friend's brother in Christ is. I can't free him of this sin, but I can pray for him PERSISTENTLY, because, after all, the Bible does cover that too.

There is freedom from the bondage of sin. Romans 6:18 says, "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." Some people just need some help and some intercession on their behalf and it's our job to do just that.

Thank God for emancipation.

A Year

2008-12-09T00:21:00.002-05:00

It's crazy to think about all that happens in a year. Since December 9, 2007 I have changed my major three times, lived in two different houses, two different apartments, made so many new friends, lost some old friends, and become a completely different human being.

It's crazy that most of the things that have happened within the past year are a complete mystery to me. I have no idea why these things have happened, but I guess that's a side effect of not seeing the big picture.

It's my natural tendency to worry about what changes are going to come with this next year, how I'll be changed in 2009, but I'm making a vow to myself to allow myself and my world to change without a panic attack. Then, one day I'll understand, after I've seen God's big picture.

Assumptions

2008-12-07T00:07:00.007-05:00

I remember in High School, my 11th grade English teacher used to tell us what would happen if you assume. If you don't know the joke, ask someone else, but I've come to realize that assuming really does get you into some trouble. Assumptions are especially dangerous when they are directed at people.

People never fail to surprise me. Unfortunately, most of the time it's a bad surprise, one that leaves me saying, "I can't believe he would sink that low." Every once in a while, however, you get one of those nice surprises where you think to yourself, "Maybe he's not so bad after all."

Ultimately, though, they're all judgements about some one's character, and good or bad, they're not our place to make. I wonder if we'll ever get the hang of that.

At Last

2008-12-05T23:37:00.003-05:00

At last the week is finally over. No more finals. No more nursing homes (until next week), and a lot less stress. It's been a wild week. Clinicals was better than expected though. I almost felt at home taking care of a patients needs. I got confirmation of that tonight when I called a classmate in to help me with a patient. After we finished, the classmate looked me in the eye and said, "Michael, you are so good at what you do. You look so comfortable! You belong in this kinda job." It made my night.

And by the way, nursing homes aren't as bad as I thought.

A Cloud.

2008-12-04T00:04:00.000-05:00

There's alot going on in my head right now. It's finals week, and it's also my first week of CNA clinicals, so needless to say, my brain is headed in a thousand directions right now. I've been thinking alot about the word redemption lately, and what that means to us as Christians. Now, I won't act like I sit around and have deep thoughts about words like redemption, because I heard a Small Group session about the word, but I've been thinking about it nonetheless. I don't really have an answer yet, but just be on the look out (all those readers out there) because there are thoughts about that to come. Maybe you should come up with some of your own and we can compare.

What's really awesome, though, is that after my last blog about home, Justin gave a "sermon" tonight that sort of ties in. In talking with him today, I asked him not to spend the next three weeks giving those cliche Christmas talks. He got a little upset, but did something out of the ordinary anyway. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Paul writes to the Church at Corinth. Paul starts with how we should give of our worldly possessions: "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

This isn't the TRUE point of the passage, however. If you skip down to verse 12 through the end of the chapter, you'll see that you give of your material possessions so that the receiver may give thanks to God. You also give that you may have the chance to invest in that person, and that you may share with them the love and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

With an acceptance of Christ's forgiveness and the beginning of a true relationship with Him, God gives us a desire to help those who are less fortunate. He knows those who "have not" aren't the ones the world goes running to, but He also loves them just the same, and knows that they need the gospel as much as we do. We "have" the greatest gift imaginable, and it's our job to give to those who, once again, "have not", no matter what they look like.

Leaving Home to go...Home?

2008-12-01T23:04:00.000-05:00

Last night I stayed awake for much too long, because I couldn't stop thinking about one specific thing. Alot of times, I start to feel sorry for myself when I have to leave my parents house in the mountains of VA to head back to Florence and my daily routine. I complain about school, and about how busy I am, but I never stop to think about one thing. Yes, I might be leaving "home," but I'm headed to another one. An apartment with heat, water, and my goodness, even cable TV. I have more food and clothes than I know what to do with, and yet I complain about having to get up in the morning, hop in MY CAR and drive to class at a university. Anyone see what's wrong with that picture?

It was cold up here in VA last night, and will be tonight. COLD, like...in the 20's. I couldn't stop thinking about the people who are spending this night on the ground out in the elements, and it broke my heart. I wondered what I was doing to help. I wondered what the church was doing to help. I wondered what more I could do to help, and yes, I wondered what more the church could do to help. I'm not exactly sure what "helping the homeless" looks like, but I know where it starts. It starts with me, and my prayer on behalf of those who "have not" and my willingness to give my "haves" for them. You "have" too don't you?

Third Time's the Charm...or Fourth, or Fifth...

2008-11-30T20:19:00.001-05:00

So, we're gonna try this again. Kali and I have been talking alot about blogging and reading each other's thoughts online. She added me to her "Blog Roll" on another popular blogging site (which shall not be named) and told me I should write more. Sounds good, just be ready for some blogs that completely and utterly waste your time. The good stuff only comes on special occasions!

Finally There

2008-11-06T00:57:00.000-05:00

Man, I'm worn out, but you know that niche you find when you know you're were God wants you? I love how you seem to succeed and things just seem to feel right. I'm working on some CNA courses (Certified Nursing Assistant, just for those who don't know...or care) and I'm in that spot. I've been preparing myself for a nursing career my entire life, and one discouraging summer completely scared me away from that calling on my life. I explored alot of other options in my time away from God's will including a tug towards full time ministry. I'm still feeling that pull toward a career in God's service, but I'm still not quite sure what that looks like. What hurts the most though, is how easily I was distracted from God's plan for my life. Now, don't get me wrong, that summer in the hospital was miserable. Any 18-year old who spent his summer taking care of alcohol detox patients who throw chairs and threaten to sue would be forced to consider a career change, but this longing I had been experiencing my entire life was pushed aside when I was put out of my comfort zone. How sad??

It is funny, though, how things always end up lining back up with the will of God. That desire I had to care for people at their worst was never going to leave me. I just had to find the right place to use the gifts God had given me.

It scares me how Satan has the power to use such situations to discourage us and to distract us from the will of God, but it amazes me how God always has the power to bring us right back, more focused on the goal before us.

A Mountain Top Experience

2008-09-19T09:54:00.000-04:00

Here we are, over halfway through the month of September, and already getting burnt out. I know I speak for most Francis Marion students when I say, "Francis Marion NEVER gives us a day off!" We've working hard for over a month without a single break! We'll keep this schedule up until our microscopic fall break. Sadly enough, this glorious occasion doesn't come until the first week of November! That's almost 3 months of school without a break! Because me and many of my friends are ready for a break, we've been planning a camping trip up to the mountains where my parents live. Although I'm completely opposed to living there myself, I love to visit my family and get a little refreshment. I love spending the night on the mountain, waking up, putting on a hoodie, and enjoying the cool air of the mountain. I love how the deer have no fear of humans, so they'll basically eat out of you hand. I love looking out over the valley and realizing just how amazing God is, and how easy it was for Him to create such and amazingly beautiful place.

All of that is great, but mostly I look forward the the fellowship that comes with camping. C.S. Lewis once said,

"Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a fire?"

I don't think I could agree more! I am so excited about the memories we'll have, and the conversations that will come out of a love and care for each other. I'm praying that time for out trip will come soon, because we're all worn out, but the excitement and anticipation will get me through until then!

By the way, I'm craving Chinese food!

A Family Fading Fast...

2008-09-19T00:53:00.000-04:00

I look back on the years that I spent as a youth at my home church here in Florence, and remember all the AMAZING times I shared with my friends, who, eventually, became more like family. I think about trips to Parris Island, Kentucky, and Hendersonville. I think about Ski Trips, and Dare 2 Share. I think about hardcore games of capture the flag, and times when Wes would make his way up to the roof for games of spotlight. I think about the Ha-Ha game, the vegtable game, and never ending games of Ya-Ya, or Ong-Pong-Ping. I look back at how comfortable we felt around each other and how we grew spiritually as a body. I remember feeling at home with those frinds. I remember how church was a refuge and how I could tell anyone about my short comings without fear of judgement and...I wonder...what's changed? I wonder why things just don't feel the same. I wonder why do people feel like they have to be fake, to put on a face, and try to convince the people that care about you most that you're someone you're not. I am so sad that people don't feel like church is a refuge any longer. I feel guilty because I feel like it's my fault, and yet, there's nothing I can do about it, but pray for a genuine love for, and from, everyone who steps foot inside that youth house, and to pray for a genuine passion for God Himself. So...it's our job to do just that...

God, I pray that you'll help us all to be real with each other. I know it's harder than it seems, God, but, just take away that pride that causes us to hide from who we really are. God, help us not to judge, but to love our brothers and sisters unconditionally. Help us to be that support and that refuge that you've created us to be. Forgive us for the times we've tried to fool others, God, and the times we've tried to fool you too! How rediculous we must seem...Thank you for loving us, God, and for giving us a place we can go and fellowship and worship you together. Give us a GENUINE passion for you and for your word...

Time to do your part...

Everyone else is doing it...

2008-06-16T15:17:00.001-04:00

Hey guys,
I've been reading alot of people's blogs this summer. I have friends alllll over the world this summer doing God's work. It's amazing to share in their experiances. I figured I'd share in the fun. I'm in VA until Tuesday (tomorrow) after spending a week at Student Life camp in Talledega, AL. Ebenezer took 52 people to share in this AMAZING week. It was hot and sticky, but God worked in the lives of alot of people. There were 2 professions of faith from our group alone!!!!!!!!!!!! We talked alot about being fake, about being a poser, and some major realizations were made. People realized that changes needed to take place in their lives. I learned alot too. Ask me and I'll be happy to share. Please pray for the determintation of those effected. Pray that their reactions were not an emotional response to the week, but a genuine desire to change for God.

Stay tuned. I'll be somewhere different every week! I can't wait to see what God has in store.

Passion...among other things

2007-01-06T13:48:00.001-05:00

I went to Passion hoping to find something that would step up my relationship with God. I was tired of these stupid ups and downs of my normal life. I wanted something that would last. I had heard people talk about Passion and how it changed their lives so I figured I should try it out. This isn't some blog about the hotel we stayed in, and the jokes that we had, and all the fun times, but this is to show that my life was changed. See, normally you come back from some retreat or trip all fired up and on this so called "spiritual high". You come back, you change your myspace background and you add the daily bible verse banner to your page. (ok...got those covered) Then a couple of weeks later, when school starts back the Bible is replaced with that rather large Biology book, or those confusing calculus notes. That quiet time you had with God is replaced with the tutor you had to hire to pass AP Chemistry, and church , well who has time for that? You see that's not how this is for me, and I hope the 25, 000 other people who attended Passion feel the same way. See we learned some things while we were there. Not from Louie Giglio, or Beth Moore, but from God. We learned that if you are lukewarm, then God will spit you out of your mouth. If you are lukewarm then you just aren't getting it!! Here's the deal. God has given us an incredible gift. He says that we can sit on the throne with Him for ETERNITY while thousands of angels are singing "Holy is the Lord God Almighty"!! How can we not be excited about that. How can we resist putting our hands in the air when we are singing to God?!? How can we resist reading the Bible whenever we get the chance?!? How can we not put all other things aside and focus on all that really matters? My background right now says God. God period. No flashy fireworks, or school mascots. Just a black page and God period. That's what counts. That's what matters. That's what my focus needs to be. I do it as a reminder to myself, not as a way to brag about my trip because see Satan is attacking me. He is attacking everyone who went and came back with a greater knowledge of God. Understand that we are Satan's worst nightmare right now, and he is going to do everything in his power to change us. I am working hard to ignore Satan and focus on God period. I hope that you will help me and encourage me because I WILL need it. Keep me accountable. And above all else...pray.

Τετέλεσται

Speaking to my heart...

I have a "thing" for watches...

A Different Direction.

It's only Wednesday...

Three things...or four.

FYI

I need your help…

If…

Ship Shape

A Real Page Turner

Inbox (1)

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” - Hebrews 10:35-36, NIV

A friend of mine posted that as her Facebook status earlier today. One of those little messages God drops in your face to remind you He knows what you need. It reminded me to keep on doing what I know is “the will of God”.

First Baptist Church…Plant

Link Love…2

Link Love…

This little box of mine…

More from Haiti…

Yup…

It’s the small things…

About that Cap & Gown…

Whatever You're Doing

Untraceable

Welcome Back?

The Final Curtain Call

Pull It All Together...

Let's Get Specific...

Times are A-Changing...

Think, Think, Think...

MMMmmmmm....

In Case You Were Wondering...

Subtle Much??

Scatagories...This week...

"Gotta, Wanta, Needa, Hava"

"Bomit"

The Truth, The Whole Truth...

Do You Remember?

Mirror, Mirror

The List

Resolution

Amid the Mess

Fair? Hardly...

"Time"

Uhh...

I Do.

Are You Serious?

God of this City

"Here I Go Again"

Who? Me?

Philippians 4:4-7

"Reverse, Reverse"

The B-I-B-L-E

Keep It Up

Renewed...

One for the Road

Patience...and Waiting.

Missing Today for Tomorrow

Scratch That...

Left Behind

Not So Independent Study

Just a Reminder...

Again...

Why not?

Finally...

Further Thought.

Converge Collegiate Conference 2009

A Little More than you Bargained For...

For Real?

Lost...

Wow...

Frustrations

The Best Policy

To Do List

And We're Off!

In Case of Emergency

"Unwavering"

Celebration of a Lifetime

Technology

Emancipation

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
- Hebrews 10:35-36, NIV