tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29855352133516592062024-03-14T02:16:06.126-05:00mrbill's blog"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." - Acts 20:24mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.comBlogger589125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-18783043718797856252021-08-09T14:15:00.001-05:002021-08-09T14:15:12.509-05:00Students, The Olympics & Changing the World!<p>Over the past 17 days, I was privileged to watch young athletes from all over the world display their talents and it was INCREDIBLE! Now, I didn't get to watch everything, some of the games were new to me (handball?), and I certainly wasn't into the politics of the Olympics. But being a pastor who has worked with students the past 37 years, what I saw further confirmed my hope in this next generation of you people! Here is what was confirmed:</p><p><b>1 - Young People Are Amazing!</b> From the opening ceremonies to the closing ceremonies, the displays of talent, passion & character these young people demonstrated was amazing! From helping others finish a race, to throwing your Gold medal up to one of your teammates, to colliding with another runner - only to get up and win the race, to making decisions for mental health - these young people showed their amazing hearts & I love it! I've always treated the students this way in every ministry I've been a part of and it is sooooo true!<b> GSM students - y'all are amazing!</b></p><p><b>2 - Young People Will Rise To The Level They Are Challenged!</b> As I watched these young athletes claim their medals, I also was reminded of the hard work each of them put in long before they got to Tokyo. None of us know the exact details, but I guarantee that each of them devoted time, money, practice, sacrifice & more time to their sport. Blood, sweat & tears were much of their daily routine in order to compete at such a high level. I wonder if that is why so many students leave student ministry? Our public school system pushes them to learn things they don't understand, coaches push them to work harder and then when they come to church, we play with them & they leave under-challenged. We must RAISE THE BAR in student ministry! Expect little, get little. Expect much, get much! <b>GSM students, you can do this!</b></p><p><b>3 - Young People Are Capable Of Making Hard Decisions!</b> - Regardless of how you feel about Simone Biles dropping out due to mental health issues, what we saw was a young person in the spotlight make a very difficult decision that she knew would cause a lot of controversy, but she did it anyway! Students are stronger than we think and capable of more than we think, we need to let them lead! <b>GSM students, now is your time to take a stand for truth!</b></p><p><b>4 - Young People Need Older People Pouring Into Them! </b>- Did you notice the coaches for each of these athletes & teams? All of them were older. All of them had wisdom. All of them had years of experience. And all of them worked tirelessly to push these athletes. A great coach makes you do what you don't want to do so that you can become what you want to become. Doing a routine for the 7th time in a row, practicing basics over & over, memorizing plays, getting constructive criticism - all the works of a good coach. The most successful athletes & teams aren't the ones with the best skills, but the ones who do the basics well! <b>GSM students - get yourself into a discipling relationship & get the G.O.S.P.E.L. down so you can be a more useful tool in the hand of God!</b></p><p><b>5 - Young People Represent More Than Just Themselves!</b> The athletes at the olympics were all part of teams, teams that were part of countries, and countries that are all part of the world we all live in. Amongst the diversity, there was unity. I saw athletes from different countries congratulating other athletes who just beat them. I saw teams listening to their anthems and hugging other teams. And every athlete represented their country (ok, maybe not Russia, but that's another issue). <b>GSM students - we are called to be God's Ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) - to represent Him wherever we go and whenever we can! Our friends need to know God loves them, that our sins separate us from God and that we can't do anything about it. But that Jesus payed the price for our sin and everyone who trusts in Him alone has eternal life! Let's share this Good News and watch God do amazing things!</b></p><p>There is sooooooo much more I could say - Thank you Jesus for the privilege of working with the largest population of teens in our world ever - 1 Billion!!!</p><p>'Til every student, everywhere, hears the Gospel from a friend! </p><p><br /></p>mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-68848219101549525502019-01-31T08:17:00.002-06:002019-01-31T08:17:53.397-06:00Legacy Has Left The Building - January 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Despite a number of our students being sick and not as many being able to participate, last night we closed our doors for the night and sent our students to other student ministries...</span></h3>
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Yes - you heard me! Yes - we told students last week we'd be sending them elsewhere this week and we did. We had options for them and had them sign up. What? Why? Do we pay our own student pastor to send our students out? YES! And yes, the questions have come in: What if they teach something students don't believe? What if they like another ministry better? What if we lose students?</div>
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Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah....<br />
We did this last year too & our students loved it! So why have a night like this? Let me give you several reasons:</div>
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<b>- Students need to see the greater body of Christ in action!</b> It's easy to get caught up in our own "student ministry world" and lose sight that there are other ministries that are not only advancing the Gospel but, like iron sharpens iron, we can learn from and collaborate with. I've worked hard since arriving in Castle Rock to network with other ministries to help make Jesus known, encourage each other and work together. Many of these ministries care deeply for students and are sharing the hope of Jesus!</div>
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<b>- Students can forget what it is like to be the "visitor."</b> It's easy to get comfortable week after week with the same friends - even ones you bring. But whenever you enter into a new place, a new environment, a different structure, it can be awkward and a bit scary. But, since we believe awkward is awesome, I want to put my students (& adults) in "awkward" situations! I want students to know how it feels to be the visitor because it can make them more sensitive to students who visit our ministry. We even had our students inviting their friends to go with them last night and be visitors together - now that's cool God stuff!</div>
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<b>- It can help students take ownership.</b> Want students more involved in your student ministry? Send 'em elsewhere and have them come back with ideas to make yours better. Then give them the encouragement & resources to accomplish it. They can, they will, they do and it works! We had students meet at Chick-fil-a afterwards last night to debrief and share experiences & ideas - they were non-stop talking!!! </div>
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<b>- It will help students verbalize their faith.</b> The greatest way to grow in your faith is to share your faith. And yes, this happens best with students among their peers. As they attended other student ministries last night, numerous students had conversations about what they believe about Jesus with other students - during lesson discussion as well as while just hanging. Gospel conversations - students with students - Awesome!</div>
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<b>- It creates faith-building, discipling opportunities.</b> But what if students attend another ministry where they heard false teaching? Great! I'm not sending them elsewhere every week. The weeks they are in our ministry I guarantee they get solid, Biblical truth and that will help them discern truth from error. And even if this happens, you do what every parent does when their son or daughter asks a question. You discuss it together and it provides a teachable, discipling moment. Doing this helps students take ownership of their own faith which is a must, in my mind, at least before they leave high school. Side-note: The ministries I sent them to last night - I would trust those guys with my life!</div>
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<b>- Students usually come back with a greater appreciation of their own student ministry.</b> I heard this from a lot of our students after last night. Don't get me wrong - our students know I have no desire for our ministry to become any type of "club." But we do work hard to create a place in the body of Christ where they feel challenged as well as, loved & accepted with a sense of belonging & mission - because, sadly, for some, student ministry may be the only place where they find that.</div>
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So to wrap up, I don't feel threatened a bit by sending my students to visit some of the other great ministries in our city - besides, aren't we all on the same team?!~ As a called minister of God, I want to give my students the best and I work hard to do so. And if our ministries aren't the best (and you have to define best) - then shame on us, let's get them there! But if for whatever reason, a student (and/or their family) finds a better fit where they can worship, love, serve & share Jesus elsewhere - I am totally cool with that too! I don't get paid commission!<br />
Ok, I said a lot. And for now, I still have a job :)<br />
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Hizkid, mrbill</div>
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snapchat/twitter/instagram/youtube/etc = mrbill6761</div>
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-11551393267852448442016-09-08T07:14:00.000-05:002016-09-08T07:15:05.566-05:00LEGACY Has Left The Building.... Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Last night we closed our doors and sent all of our students to other student ministries...</span></h3>
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Yes - you heard me! Yes - we told students last week we'd be sending them elsewhere this week and we did. And yes, the questions have come in: What? Why? Don't we pay our own student pastor to have ministries for our students? What if they teach something students don't believe? What if they like another ministry better?<br />
Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah....<br />
We did this last year too & our students loved it! So why have a night like this? Let me give you several reasons:</div>
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<b>- Students need to see the greater body of Christ in action!</b> It's easy to get caught up in our own "student ministry world" and lose sight that there are other ministries that are not only advancing the Gospel but, like iron sharpens iron, we can learn from and collaborate with. I've worked hard since arriving in Castle Rock to see ministries make Jesus known, encourage each other and work together. These ministries care for students and are sharing the hope of Jesus!</div>
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<br />
<b>- Students can forget what it is like to be the "visitor."</b> It's easy to get comfortable week after week with the same friends - even ones you bring. But whenever you come into a new place, a new environment, a different structure, it can be awkward and a bit scary. But, since we believe awkward is awesome, I want to put my students (& adults) in "awkward" situations! I want students to know how it feels to be the visitor because it can make them more sensitive to students who visit our ministry. We even had our students inviting their friends to go with them last night and be visitors together - that's cool God stuff!</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-14974588505361522" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br />
<b>- It can help students take ownership.</b> Want students more involved in your student ministry? Send 'em elsewhere and have them come back with ideas to make yours better. Then give them the encouragement & resources to accomplish it. They can, they will, they do and it works! We had students meet at Chick-fil-a afterwards last night to debrief and share experiences & ideas - they were non-stop talking!!! </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-14974588505361522" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<b>- It will help students verbalize their faith.</b> The greatest way to grow in your faith is to share your faith. And yes, this happens best with students among their peers. As they attended other student ministries last night, numerous ones told me about conversations they had about what they believe about Jesus with other students - during lesson discussion as well as while just hanging. Gospel conversations - students with students - Awesome!</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-14974588505361522" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br />
<b>- It creates faith-building, discipling opportunities.</b> But what if students attend another ministry where they heard false teaching? Great! I'm not sending them elsewhere every week. The weeks they are in our ministry I guarantee they get solid, Biblical truth and that will help them discern truth from error. And even if this happens, you do what every parent does when their son or daughter asks a question. You discuss it together and it provides a teachable, discipling moment. Doing this helps students take ownership of their own faith which is a must, in my mind, at least before they leave high school. Side-note: The ministries I sent them to last night - I would trust those guys with my life!</div>
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<br />
<b>- Students usually come back with a greater appreciation of their own student ministry.</b> I heard this from a lot of our students after last night. Don't get me wrong - our students know I have no desire for our ministry to become any type of "club." But I do want them to have a place in the body of Christ where they feel challenged as well as safe, loved, accepted and a sense of belonging, because, sadly, for some, student ministry may be the only place where they find that.</div>
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<br />
So to wrap up, I don't feel threatened a bit by sending my students to visit some of the other great ministries in our city - besides, aren't we all on the same team?!~ As a called minister of God, I want to give my students the best and I work hard to do so. And if our ministries aren't the best (and you have to define best) - then shame on us, let's get them there! But if for whatever reason, a student (and/or their family) finds a better fit where they can worship, love, serve & share Jesus elsewhere - I am totally cool with that! I don't get paid commission!<br />
Ok, I said a lot. And for now, I still have a job :)<br />
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Hizkid, mrbill</div>
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snapchat/twitter/instagram/youtube/periscope/etc = mrbill6761</div>
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-47650700164768055322016-02-23T12:11:00.002-06:002016-02-23T12:12:29.422-06:007 Reasons You Should Bring Yourself & Your Students To Lead THE Cause This Summer<span style="font-family: "comic sans ms"; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;">This summer I will be taking students back to Lead The Cause. This will be my fifth LTC, not with the same students, not for the same information, but certainly for the same purpose - Transformation! Why am I going back again? Here are my Top 7 reasons:</span><br />
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<b>1 - To PRAY:</b> If this were my only reason, it would be enough. Me and my students get to beg God for our friends to come to Christ, to ask God to give us a passion for them and then for God to give us HIS plan to see these things get accomplished! AND to pray with hundreds of other students who have the same desire - Priceless!</div>
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<b>2 - It’s a MISSIONS Week:</b> This is not a week of just sitting in classes. We’re out sharing our faith, doing ministry, texting friends, beginning Gospel conversations and recruiting other believers to join us in this Cause! And then, when we the week is over and we return, it’s like a year long missions work on our campuses begins!</div>
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<b>3 - It Draws Students DEEPER:</b> Every student I’ve take has repeatedly told me that this week drew them closer to the Lord than ever before. The substance of the week causes them to risk and to be taken out of their comfort zones where they HAVE to trust in their Lord! It’s an uncomfortableness that takes us all to places in our soul we might not otherwise go.</div>
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<b>4 - It Sends Students WIDER: </b>The training and immediate application helps us all be better inspired & equipped to have Gospel conversations with our friends. Fears are removed and replaced with Faith - faith that we can do this and God can use us!</div>
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<b>5 - It’s My DISCIPLE-MAKING Strategy:</b> This week helps me make disciples who make disciples who make disciples, and it can help you do the same. Legacy is not our church’s ministry to students, it’s our students ministry to the world! LTC gives students an opportunity to get involved in this disciple-making process - and we are seeing this happen! Check out this video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UklfJ6Z-CsE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UklfJ6Z-CsE</a></div>
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<b>6 - Students OWN IT: </b>Unlike camps & retreats where students usually return and tell people what they missed, LTC students return and recruit their friends to join them in a Cause greater than themselves - THE Cause of sharing the hope of Jesus with everyone! I don’t have to sell an idea to students who weren’t there, instead my students own this movements and THEY inspire & recruit others!</div>
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<b>7 - We Return With A STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN: </b>After praying, discussing, praying and strategizing, we come away with a set of 30 day, 3 month and 9 month goals that, by God’s grace & power, will help us reach our area for HIM! We all want to see our friends come to know Jesus, but how many of us actually sit down, pray and set goals to see that happen?! Well, at LTC we do!</div>
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In my 31 years of doing student ministry, LTC has produced more “fruit that lasts” (John 15:16) than ANYTHING else I’ve ever done! I’ve literally watched my LTC alumni leave for college, gather other followers, and begin to Lead The Cause on their campuses! If you’re tired of the typical and ready for transformational, get yourself and your students to Lead The Cause this summer!</div>
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-1964719006515107812015-11-16T09:16:00.000-06:002015-11-16T09:27:29.638-06:00"Ring The Bell" - The Story of Nick Myer's Spiritual Journey<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This past Saturday we held a memorial service for one of our students, Nick Myer, who passed away the week before. During that service I shared Nick's faith in Jesus and have been asked by many to post that story, so here it is:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“Ring the Bell” – The
Story of Nick’s Spiritual Journey<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I remember the first time Nick
came to Legacy. It was about two years ago. He was invited by one of our
students Kira. I went to meet him and he said, “Hi I’m Nick, I’m an atheist.”
Smiling back at him I said, “Hi I’m Mr Bill, I’m just glad you came! What
school do you go to?” But that was Nick, always establishing himself, and a
great guy to talk to.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So Nick continued to attend
legacy on Wednesdays, hanging with friends, hearing about God’s love for him
and investigating this Jesus guy. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then about a year ago I was
talking with my friend Greg Stier about a trip he had made to Germany and a
visit he made to a concentration camp there. I got permission to share his
story in my next sermon and I want to briefly share it with you because it
tells <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nick’s spiritual
journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Greg told me about his visit to Dachau
Concentration Camp in Germany. Under the reign of Adolph Hitler…… tens of
thousands of Jews were housed there & died. They were tortured there, in
unimaginable ways..</i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">… It was a place of death &
hopelessness. But today, if you visit Dachau, at 3:00 you’ll hear a bell. So why
the bell? And why 3:00? You see, the Bible records that Jesus died at 3:00, and
that bell rings today & every day in Dachau to remind everyone visiting
that – in the midst of dark & seemingly hopeless times - Jesus offers hope
and life! I shared this message with our church family and our Legacy students.
As believers, we too are called to “ring the bell of hope”, </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not just at 3:00, but all the time. Not
just in Dachau, but everywhere. </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We are to remind everyone, that regardless
of what you’re facing, there is hope in Jesus! And I say that to you today, as
we gather</i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After I shared that message,
we took this bell and we hung it in our Legacy room as a reminder that we are
to share the hope of Jesus with those around us. So each week after we began
asking students if they’ve had a chance to share Jesus with anyone, and if so,
to come up, ring the bell and share their story. We would then pray for them as
well as for their friend It’s become a really neat and special practice. Well,
one night this past Spring, I asked again if anyone has had an opportunity
share Jesus this week. Well, Nick stands up and starts heading towards the bell
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- and I’m watching with anticipation not
knowing what to expect – which is pretty much what student ministry is always
like anyway – LOL!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nick rings the bell, looks at
the room filled with Legacy students and says, “It’s me!” And we were all like,
“what?” Nick says again,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s me! This week I put my faith in
Jesus!!!” And everyone was like <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NO WAY – THAT’S AWESOME!!! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He shared how he had been
coming for over a year, listening, checking Jesus out and finally said he
believes that Jesus is who He said he is and he’s placing his faith in Him! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just two months later, Nick
shared his growing faith with our entire student ministry thru the letter on
the back of this program and I’d like to read it to you:<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->There
will be times when you feel alone. You’re not. God is always with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Don’t
gossip. Just don’t do it. It’s not cool. If you’re doing it, stop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Find
times in your week, an hour or two, to get away from everything and not worry
about the homework, life or drama in your life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->When
I was younger, I used to think that I would change the world, then change my
country, then change my state, then my town, then my family, then myself. Now
that I’m older, I realized that only God can truly change someone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->And
as always, trust in the Lord with all your heart, for He has a plan for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Truly insightful and
transformation words!!! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The measure of a man’s life
in not in duration, but in donation –<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> And Nick donated so much to our lives! </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial", "helvetica", sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Nick put his faith in Jesus and believed Him when He said, "I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me." - John 14:6 And if we want to see Nick again someday, we too must put our faith and trust in Jesus just like Nick did. Regardless of where you are in your spiritual journey, if you would like to discuss more - I'd love to! Nick would be thrilled to know that his passing brought about new life in Christ to others!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">At </span><span style="font-family: "arial", "helvetica", sans-serif;">Legacy</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Student Ministry, we like to regularly share God's story, check it out </span></span><a href="http://www.lifein6words.com/connect-with-god/#sthash.t8rpLHJY.dpbs" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">HERE</a></div>
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-56259503950551856642015-09-10T06:51:00.001-05:002015-09-10T07:10:35.765-05:00LEGACY Has Left The Building<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #1b0431; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #29303b; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;">Last night we closed our doors and sent all of our students to other student ministries...</span></h3>
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Yes - you heard me! Yes - we told students last week we'd be sending them elsewhere this week and we did. And yes, the questions have come in: What? Why? Don't we pay our own student pastor to have ministries for our students? What if they teach something students don't believe? What if they like another ministry better? Yadda, yadda, yadda....<br />
This idea actually came up last summer and our leadership students loved it! So why have a night like this? I can think of several reasons:</div>
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<b>- Students need to see the greater body of Christ in action!</b> It's easy to get caught up in our own "student ministry world" and lose sight that there are other ministries that are not only doing a great job but, like iron sharpens iron, we can learn from and collaborate with. I've worked hard since arriving in Castle Rock to see ministries encourage each other and work together. These ministries care for students and have the Gospel down!</div>
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<b>- Students can forget what it is like to be the "visitor."</b> It's easy to get comfortable week after week with the same friends - even ones you bring. But whenever you come into a new place, a new environment, a different structure, it can be awkward and a bit scary. But, since we believe awkward is awesome, I want to put my students in "awkward" situations! I want students to know how it feels to be the visitor because it can make them more sensitive to students who visit our ministry. Last night, I even invited 2 new students to come with me and be the visitor with me at CRBC and it was AWESOME!~</div>
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<b>- It can help students take ownership.</b> Want students more involved in your student ministry? Send 'em elsewhere and have them come back with ideas to make yours better. They can, they do and it works!</div>
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<b>- It will help them verbalize their faith.</b> The greatest way to grow in your faith is to share your faith. And yes, this happens best with students among their peers. As they attended student ministries last night, numerous ones told me they were able to share what they believe about Jesus with other students - during lesson discussion as well as while just hanging. Gospel conversations - students with students - Awesome!</div>
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<b>- It creates faith-building teaching opportunities.</b> What if they attend another ministry where they heard false teaching? Great! I'm not sending them elsewhere every week. The weeks they are in our ministry I guarantee they get Bible truth and that will help them discern truth from error. And even if this happens, you do what every parent does when their son or daughter asks a question. You discuss it together and it provides a teachable moment. Doing this helps students take ownership of their own faith which is a must, in my mind, before they leave high school. Side-note: The ministries I sent them to last night - I would trust those guys with my life!</div>
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<b>- Students usually come back with a greater appreciation of their own student ministry.</b> I heard this from most all of the students after last night. Now - our students know I have no desire for our ministry to become any type of "club", but I do want them to have a place in the body of Christ where they feel safe, loved and a sense of belonging, because, sadly, for some, student ministry may be the only place where they feel that.</div>
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So to wrap up, I don't feel threatened a bit by sending my students to visit some of the other great ministries in our town - aren't we all on the same team? As a called minister of God, I want to give my students the best and I work hard to do so. And if our ministries aren't the best (and you have to define best) - then shame on us, let's get them there! But if for whatever reason, a student (and/or their family) finds a better fit where they can worship, love & serve Jesus - I am totally cool with that!<br />
Ok, I said a lot. And for now, I still have a job :)<br />
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-69589222076250562392015-06-07T06:17:00.000-05:002015-06-07T08:09:21.661-05:0025 Things I've Learned in My First 25 Years in Student Ministry<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
25 years ago today –
1990 in Katy, Texas, and on my birthday - I began full time student ministry.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s flown by pretty
fast and it’s been a ride I wouldn’t trade for all the money in the world!<o:p></o:p></div>
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In honor of my Lord
giving me these years, I’d like to share some of what I’ve learned during this
time – the good, the bad, and the exciting!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<ol>
<li><b>First Things First</b> - Student ministry wouldn’t exist without God,
and neither would I. I am so grateful that God sought me out even though I
wanted nothing to do with Him (Isaiah 65:1a). AND that He loves me, forgives
me, gave me faith to believe and daily gives me a purpose to live for. The main
thing is to keep the Main Thing the main thing. I owe God everything. And I’m
sooooo grateful for friends like Scott Kaczinski and Mary Scull who
persistently invited me and prayed for me when I didn’t care!</li>
<li><b>Know Jesus </b>– Second only to my faith in Jesus, is the privilege of
getting to know Him more & more. He IS my strength (Psalm 46:1) and
spending regular time with Him is crucial. There is no way I could love,
counsel, encourage, serve, challenge, support, train & equip my family and
our students in their relationship with Jesus if I wasn’t doing the same. My
daily time in the mornings alone with Jesus (and yes I miss days) is a priority
& habit that strengthens me, grows me and sustains me. I love Jesus, I need
Him and I don’t stand a chance without Him. (John 15:5)</li>
<li><b>WWJD </b>– What Would JEAN Do? Seriously – I can’t say enough about my
wife. When we married, we became a team of ministers who really had no idea
what we we’re getting ourselves into. We just loved Jesus, each other & students
and went for it. Apart from Christ, her love and her ministry to me is the
greatest love & ministry I’ve ever known. She’s my partner, my best friend,
my lover, my fellow minister and the best mom Drew & Jessica could ever
have! Together we’ve been privileged to pour our lives into students &
families, grow with them, struggle with them, celebrate with them, laugh with
them and cry with them. No one will ever understand the sacrifices, the 2am
phone calls, the attacks from church members or the financial strains better
than a spouse. So if you’re gonna’ be in ministry for the long haul, you better
have a good one or you’ll never make it. I’ve seen numerous youth leader
friends quit ministry because their spouse had enough. Thanks Babe for your
amazing support and for being the most awesomest wife ever!!! (Proverbs 31:10)</li>
<li><b>Make Jesus Known </b>– The best way to grow in your faith is to share
your faith. As a new believer I told everyone and I didn’t know much more that
Jesus loved me and He forgave me. Why is it that for many believers that stops?!~
Point people to HIM. HE is the one who is great, not you or me. We like
students to like us, but that can come with the danger of pointing at
ourselves. Talk about Jesus, bleed Jesus, point to Jesus – cause He’ll be there
when we’re not. And as you do, people will believe! And new believers stoke the
fire under older believers and are vital to the church. (Philemon 6)</li>
<li><b>Be a Bible Thumper </b>– While I was at CCU I got called a “Bible
Thumper” by some friends. So I asked them why and they said, “because you
always go to the Bible for all your answers.” What was meant as a joke, I took
as a compliment, I mean, shouldn’t all believers do this? But here’s the
reality – it means WE need to be in our Bible a lot if we’re gonna point others
there! I was a fairly new believer at CCU and the reason I kept going to the Bible
is I didn’t know much, but I knew God did! I still feel that way. And if we
expect our students to find help from God, we need to model it. Read it, study
it, pray thru it, memorize it and teach it. (2 Timothy 2:15)</li>
<li><b>Remember Who We Are NOT </b>– As youth leaders, we are not the parents
– they are the #1 influence, not us. So the more we help them be involved in
discipling their students, the greater potential for disciple-makers
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9). We are also not sitters, nor entertainers, nor sports directors.
Will students sometimes be dropped off for us to “watch?” Yes. Will students
sometimes come just for the fun? Yes. But if these consume the bulk of how we
do ministry together, we will not fulfill our call to make disciples.</li>
<li><b>Remember Who We ARE - Village People </b>– We are “significant others.”
Others, because we are not the parents, significant because we can reinforce
and reconcile both love & truth in their lives. If they are getting Jesus
at home, what we do should compliment that. If they are not getting Jesus at
home, then we get to be Jesus to them. Everyone needs “others” – coaches,
mentors, bosses, etc.. pouring into their lives. I am grateful for those who
have poured into me and into my son & daughter over the years. (1
Thessalonians 1:4-20) It takes a village and I love these “village people” God
places in our lives!~ And now you can’t get the song out of your head…</li>
<li><b>K.I.S.S. </b>– No, not the band, but an acronym I go back to often:
Keep It Simple Stupid! I remember reading a book that said we should come up
with 7 point purpose statements for our ministry. There was nothing inherently
wrong with this, except for the fact that only me, Jean and maybe one other
person could ever remember what it was!~ Don’t make the GOSPEL complicated and
don’t make student ministry complicated. Jesus Himself boiled it down to two
things: Love God, Love People (Matthew 22:34-40). What is the purpose of LEGACY
Student Ministry? Knowing Jesus & Making Him Known. Simple. And every
student in Legacy can know it and own it.</li>
<li><b>Be a Cheerleader for the Outcasts –</b> Billy Graham once said, “It’s
the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge, my job is to love.” God
is constantly reaching out to the unlovely and unlovable: the woman at the
well, lepers, tax collectors, prostitutes, poor, etc… and we should too. Switchfoot
sings, “we are a beautiful letdown, painfully uncool, dropouts, losers,
sinners, failures & fools.” We live in a “high performance” culture where
athletics, academics & affluence gain you acceptance. The same should not
be true of God’s church. Widows, single moms, students being made fun of, the
LGBT community , Democrats, Republicans, Baptists - the list goes on. Whether I
agree with their behavior or not, my role is to love them and show them the
love of Jesus! HE is the one who grabs hearts and transforms! (2 Corinthians
5:17)</li>
<li><b>Take This Drug Often –</b> Proverbs 17:22 says “A cheerful heart is
good medicine.” Laughter is good for the soul and we need it a lot! Life has a
way of getting serious and without laughter things can become heavy and depressing.
So watch comedy shows, play games with your family, have friends over, tell
stories and LAUGH, LAUGH, LAUGH!!!!</li>
<li><b>Students Will Forget Our Talks </b>– Yep it’s true. But they remember
character. Don’t stop giving them scriptures and Jesus, just realize it’s your
life that says the most. Think I’m crazy? Take a moment and write down the top
five messages that have impacted your life. After you come up with them (or
if), take a moment and write down the names of five people who have impacted
your life for Jesus the most. If you’re like me, it was easy to come up with
the people. Why? Because they taught great lessons? Maybe, but mostly because
THEY were the lesson! (Luke 6:40)</li>
<li><b>Forgive </b>– Often & Always. Keep short accounts. Will people do
stupid things? Yes. Will church people say & do hurtful things? Yes. Why do
I know that? Because I’ve been that hurtful one – both to others and certainly
to God. I’ve been forgiven SO MUCH and when I don’t forgive and become bitter,
I’m the one who loses. Students today need to know they can be forgiven of
ANYTHING and how can they feel that from me if I am not forgiving others. I’m
not denying the pain, I’m not denying injustices that have occurred, I’m just
clinging to the promise of forgiveness. (Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:14-15)</li>
<li><b>If You Don’t Know, Don’t Snow </b>– This was the advice my youth
professor, RJ Koerper gave me when I headed for my first interview and I’ve
never forgotten it. Trust me, students have a natural baloney meter and can
tell when your making something up – so don’t. Being real & genuine with
students is a must if you want to grow in Christ together. Allowing them to see
my struggles, my failures, my bonehead choices frees them from the pressure to
perform and allows them to fail. And contrary to the famous film line, when it
comes to student ministry, Failure MUST BE an option!</li>
<li><b>Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid </b>– Take this one to the bank: If the
strongest man (Sampson), the wisest man (Solomon) and a man after God’s own
heart (David) all blew it sexually, how the heaven am I gonna make it?!~ I ask
Jean constantly to pray with me about this and against this – and make sure
your spouse does too! The enemy would love to have me blow it sexually, kill
our marriage and damage our testimony for Jesus – and this scares the crap out
of me! Set parameters. I am not alone with students of the opposite sex, and
rarely alone with those of the same sex. I meet in public with students and
when I counsel peeps, I leave doors open and/or ask Jean or our secretary to
sit in. I also make sure there is always another adult female leader who stays
to the end until all students are picked up. You have to do this because even a
false accusation can end your ministry. (Proverbs 7:6-9)</li>
<li><b>Be a Good Steward </b>– From day one, Jean & I have always wanted
to be a blessing and not a burden to our church family (No one wants to always
be bailing out the youth pastor). That means being intentional with finances:
not going in debt, not taking lots of loans, and at times, doing with less or
without. When we’ve used our credit cards, we’ve always paid the bill in full
each month. This has been a huge blessing to both us and to our church. How can
we do this on a ministry salary? Our motto: Never pay full price! Look for
deals, use coupons, borrow some things instead of buy AND be married to the
Deals Queen! Seriously, Jean could write a book on how to save and cut
spending! Have we ever had financial need? Of course. But when those moments
occurred and we had expended our resources, the Lord always provided, still
does and can do the same for you!</li>
<li><b>Don’t Be a Lone Ranger </b>– Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. Ministry
can be lonely enough at times, don’t add to it by doing everything yourself!
Surround yourselves with others who love Jesus and love students. Especially
those who are not like you so that the potential for students to connect with a
caring adult is at it’s highest. Jean & I have been privileged to work with
some of the greatest servant leaders at each of our churches this side of
eternity! The impact these leaders have had in the lives of students continues
to this day. They’ve been 20 year olds, 70 year olds and everything in between
– all with youthful hearts. THANKS TONS to each of you who have been part of
our teams – y’all are GOLD!</li>
<li><b>Network </b>– Next to not doing ministry alone in your church, don’t do
it alone in your community either! If we’re going to reach a community for
Jesus, it’s going to take more than just your church and your student ministry.
And this can totally be done – read Acts 19:10! Find other youth workers in
your area and get to know them. Eat with them, pray with them, share resources
and do ministry together with them! We spent 22+ years in Katy, TX and left one
of the most amazing networks of youth peeps I’ve ever known. Since arriving in
Castle Rock, it’s been cool to get to know the youth workers here and begin to
network with them for the Cause of Christ. If you’re not networking, your
missing out.</li>
<li><b>Get Out Of Town </b>– Seriously, never forget that your own spouse and
family are your first ministry. And because of that, they need to be priority.
We all MAKE time for what we want to do. If we are not MAKING time for our own,
that says a lot – none of which is good. We’ll spend hours of prayer and
planning putting together student ministry schedules, but do we do the same for
our family? Ouch. I feel like I am constantly having to come back to this one,
call time out and re-prioritize. One thing that has helped us over the years is
to pick weekends and times off and put them on the ministry calendar before we
ever publish it. That way we know we get our time and we know when we have breaks
coming up. Make time. Do it.</li>
<li><b>Get Outta The Country </b>– And take students with you. We need to have
a global perspective. Just like not doing ministry alone and networking, we
need to get a glimpse of what God is doing all over the world. AND that everything
does not operate everywhere else the same as it does in America. We American
Christians are spoiled. Take students on missions trips. Sure, start locally,
but I believe every student should serve the Lord outside the USA in some way.
I’ve been privileged to serve throughout the US, in Zimbabwe, in Australia and
multiple times in Mexico. Each one of these opportunities humbled me and
changed me forever.</li>
<li><b>Seek Out Paul, Timothy & Barnabas </b>– We need these three dudes
in our lives. Not the actual Bible guys, but these three types of people. PAUL:
Someone who is a mentor to you, leads you, teaches you and who will lovingly
tell you the hard stuff. TIMOTHY: Someone whom you are mentoring, who you get
to lead, be a role model to and pour Jesus into. BARNABAS: An encourager.
Someone who you can dump life’s crap on and they will just listen and still
love ya’! I’m so thankful for these people in my life.</li>
<li><b>Have a Thankful Heart </b>– The most grateful people in the world ought
to be believers! We’ve been unconditionally loved, forgiven, saved from hell
& given heaven, adopted into God’s family, given daily food, water,
shelter, and the list could go on & on!!! We have “hakuna matata” – no
worries – because our eternity is secure. For years, as people have asked me
how I’m doing, my reply has always been, “better than I deserve.” Why? Because
I deserve punishment for my sin but because of Jesus I get love, forgiveness
and heaven instead – it’s a good day and I am soooo THANKFUL!~</li>
<li><b>Be a Victor not a Victim </b>– Life is vigilant and sometimes as we go
thru difficulties, losses, pain and hurt, we can begin to feel like God
abandoned us. As a result, we can get a victim mentality. We need to remember
that God promised He would never leave us (Hebrews 13:5), life is about seasons
(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) and God is not a bully looking for people to pick on.
Perseverance is something we can ask God for and a trait He desires us to have.
Growing up I was often told “suck it up.” As much as I still don’t like the
phrase, the idea of trusting the Lord and plowing thru some things is good
advice.</li>
<li><b>Love Hopes All Things </b>– (1 Corinthians 13:7) I want to think &
hope the best for people. Why? Because that is what love does! We need to see
the best in students, envision their potential, encourage them tons, be on
their team, etc… Be Joe Encourager!~ Never, Never Never give up on people because
by God’s grace, people can and do change!~ I am living proof of what God can do
with not much. I’m forever grateful for Scott Kaczinski for believing in me
when I didn’t. For Dale Arentsen meeting
with me every week for 2 years to help me know Jesus. And for tons of others
who hoped all things with me.</li>
<li><b>Spend TIME with Students </b>– Quality time can’t be planned. It just
happens in the midst of Quantity time. And there are no shortcuts to this. If
you want to make disciples who make disciples (Which is every believer’s
calling Matthew 28:18-20) you have to spend TINE with those students. Jesus
poured His life into a FEW to reach the MANY and we should do the same. Student
ministry is less about the messages, the retreats, the conferences and bump
soccer and more about doing life with Jesus together. Showing up at athletic
events, choir concerts, award ceremonies, etc… takes time – but that IS what
families do! We’re the King’s kids, we’re royalty and we’re privileged with
time, but time is winding down. Only two things last forever: The Word of God
and souls of people – let’s spend our time with these two!
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<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I thank God for EVERY STUDENT I’ve had the
privilege to spend time with these past 25 years – IT’S BEEN AMAZING!!!! </span><!--EndFragment--></li>
<li><b>It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time </b>– Yes I have a t-shirt that
says this, but I don’t want this to be my theme for life. As a student pastor
we need to do things that draw people to Jesus, not turn them away. It breaks
my heart each time I hear someone tell me they’ve been hurt by a believer or a
church and it’s turned them away from Jesus. The most loving, helpful and
accepting place in the world ought to be God’s church and His people AND YOU
& I either make or break that. Let’s make it happen! Join me in being and
creating a safe place of love & acceptance for every student and family in
our communities! And if your spouse says they are concerned about playing a
game that puts fire too close to peoples hair, listen to her………hypothetically
speaking <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></li>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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There is soooo much more God has
taught me, but for now, let me conclude with my top 7 Bible passages: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My solid
ground: </b>John 3:16-17<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My
mission:</b> Matthew 28:19-20<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">c.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">How I
feel</b>: 1 Timothy 1:12-17<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">d.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">So true
of me</b>: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">e.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My life
verse</b>: Acts 20:24<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My anchor</b>:
2 Timothy 3:16-17<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">g.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Because I
still feel like a kid</b>: 1 Timothy 4:12<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
View 25 years of group photos here:<br />
https://www.facebook.com/mrbill6761/media_set?set=a.10153435979715152.1073741903.513460151&type=1&pnref=story</div>
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-84930435694315304202013-12-19T21:28:00.001-06:002013-12-19T21:29:09.686-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas from the Castle Rock Freunds!~mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-37769060875579165632013-12-18T15:31:00.001-06:002013-12-18T15:31:29.733-06:00Christmas: Presents & Presence<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Christmas - For me It's all about PRESENTS & PRESENCE:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">The Coming of Jesus Foretold</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• Micah 5:2</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• Isaiah 9:6-7</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• Isaiah 7:14</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />The Coming of Jesus Fulfilled<br />• Luke 1:26-38<br />• Matthew 1:18-23<br />• Luke 2:1-14<br />• Matthew 2:1-12<br />• Luke 2:15-20<br /><br />Whenever I think of Christmas, I think of the word Presents/Presence. It’s actually two words because it’s a homophone (a word that has the same sound as another word, but is spelled differently and has a different meaning). So actually I think of two words: Presents & Presence<br /><br />PRESENTS: As in gifts – This is the essence, the center of God’s Story of His Son. God is the bestest of givers!~<br />GOD GAVE:<br />- EVERYONE His Son John 3:16<br />- MARY a miraculous child Luke 1:26-37<br />- JOSEPH Understanding & Peace Matthew 1:18-25<br />- SHEPHERDS the Good News Luke 2:8-20<br />- MAGI a Star & A Warning Matthew 2:1-2, 12<br />- HEROD to be outwitted Matthew 2:16 <br />- HIMSELF: Immanuel Matthew 1:23<br />AND because He gave....<br />MARY GAVE Praise to God Luke 1:46-55<br />JOSEPH GAVE his Reputation Matthew 1:24-25<br />ZECHARIAH GAVE Praise to God Luke 1:67-79<br />SHEPHERDS GAVE Good News & Praise Luke 2:17-20<br />MAGI GAVE Worship & Gifts Matthew 2:9-11<br /><br />PRESENCE: As in being here, seen, noticed. The second essence of Christmas is that God wants to be “with us”, Immanuel! (Matthew 1:23) God created us to be WITH Him – to have a relationship WITH Him! His intent was never to be distant from us. It is OUR SIN that separates us from Him. But because God so loved us, HE GAVE His Son Jesus, at Christmas, to be born, to live a perfect life so that He could become the perfect sacrifice in His death in order that WE could once again be WITH God and He be WITH us!~<br />- Acts 1:8 HS will come upon you!<br />- John 15 I remain in you (Vine & Branches)<br />- John 16:13 HS will guide me<br />- Hebrews 13:5 Never leave your, never forsake you!<br /><br />Have YOU ever, by grace thru faith, put your trust in Jesus so you can be forgiven of your sins, adopted into God's family and given the power to live a life that matters? If not, ask God to do that right now! If you have, be sure to share this GREATEST GIFT ever this Christmas!<br />GOD Never meant for us to walk alone in this life!~ HE (and others) are with us! He IS Imannuel!~<br />"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means “God with us”).</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-80476740787196703372013-03-31T08:03:00.002-05:002013-03-31T08:03:57.152-05:00HOLY WEEK RESURRECTION SUNDAY: JESUS IS ALIVE!!!
<b>Read Matthew 28:1-20</b>
On this Sunday, nearly 2000 years ago, Jesus rose from the dead!!!!!!! This is the climax of Holy Week! The resurrection of Jesus Christ is THE #1 most important event in the Christian faith! It makes or breaks everything I believe about Jesus. Oh and, by the way, the Apostle Paul said the same thing too (1 Corinthians 15:17-20).
Early Sunday morning several women (Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Joanna, and Salome are all mentioned in the Gospels) went to the tomb and discovered that the large stone covering the tomb's entrance had been rolled away. Then – how cool is this, an angel tells ‘em “not to freak out.” (HA – too late!)
<i>"Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen." </i>(Matthew 28:5-6)
On the day of his resurrection, the first person to see him was Mary Magdalene. Jesus also appeared to Peter, to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, later that day to all of the disciples except Thomas (while they were gathered in a house for prayer) and to 500 others gathered at the same time! And according to Acts 1, He was here on earth for 40 days! This was no mirage, no magic trick or even their eyes playing tricks on them. Jesus REALLY was and IS alive!
The eyewitness accounts in the Bible provide undeniable evidence that the resurrection of Jesus Christ happened. And Jesus is just as ALIVE today as He was then!
<b>SO WHAT?!~</b>
- How do you treat Jesus? As an impersonal being, a “force” or as the Living God who deeply desires a relationship with you and me?!~
- Last words mean a lot. Jesus last words before He left this planet are recorded in Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:7-8! Read them over again now and ask yourself: How am I making disciples and how am I being a witness for Jesus? The one thing we have the privilege of doing here that we won’t do in heaven is make disciples and witness. So let’s be all about it here and now!~
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-41078733334971355352013-03-30T08:02:00.002-05:002013-03-30T09:08:59.593-05:00HOLY WEEK SATURDAY: Dead in the Tomb
<b>John 19:38-42</b>
Jesus' body is in the tomb and being guarded by Roman soldiers throughout the day on Saturday. It was the Sabbath, so when that ended (at 6pm), Christ's body was ceremonially treated for burial with spices purchased by Nicodemus.
Nicodemus, like Joseph of Arimathea, was a member of the Sanhedrin, the peeps which had condemned Jesus Christ to death. Both these guys had lived as secret followers of Jesus, afraid to make a public profession of faith because of their prominent positions in the Jewish community. But now they both were deeply affected by Christ's death and came out of hiding! They had count the cost and were now risking their reputations and their lives because they now realized Jesus was, indeed, the long-awaited Messiah! How cool is that?!~ Together they cared for Jesus' body and prepared it for burial. Jesus had offered Himself as the perfect, spotless sacrifice!
<i>“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” – 1 Peter 1:18-19</i>
<b>SO WHAT?!~</b>
- What has it cost you and what is it costing you to live for Jesus? It should cost something. Jesus Himself told us to “count the cost.” Our ME-centered Christianity knows very little of cost, risk and sacrifice. King David said that he would not sacrifice to the Lord that which cost him nothing (2 Samuel 24:24). It cost Paul, It cost the disciples, it cost Jesus. How about you? Would you get up early to pray? Would you give of your finances, talents and resources? Would you make time in your schedule to: Read your Bible? Serve at your church? Mentor a student? Feed the hungry? And the list goes on. Jesus came that we might have life to the full – for HIM - not us! Lord help us to count the cost, to serve You, sacrifice for You, risk for You and to daily know You, walk with You and make You known!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-60857947288949841502013-03-29T08:18:00.001-05:002013-03-29T08:37:36.772-05:00HOLY WEEK GOOD FRIDAY: Good Friday For Us Was Bad Friday For Jesus
<b>Read Matthew 27:1-61</b>
Today, Good Friday, is without question the roughest, most treacherous and painful day Jesus faced during these final hours before his death.
Soooooooo much happening today! Judas felt bad (not repentance) and hanged himself early Friday morning. Before the third hour (9 a.m.), Jesus endured false accusations, condemnation, mockery, beatings, and abandonment. After multiple illegal trials, he was sentenced to death by crucifixion - the most horrible and disgraceful way to kill a person.
Words cannot describe what went on next. Jesus was led away, soldiers spit on him, tormented and mocked him, and pierced him with a crown of thorns. They made Him carry his own cross to Calvary where he was mocked and insulted again as Roman soldiers hammered nails through his hands and feet into a wooden cross. From the 6th hour until the 9th hour (noon to 3pm) darkness covered the land. As Jesus hung & suffered on the cross, he asked His Daddy to forgive the people (Luke 23:34), told a criminal that they’d be in paradise together (Luke 23:43), told His mother and John that they were now family (John 19:26-27), felt like God had ditched Him (Mark 15:34), was thirsty (John 19:28), said “It is finished” (John 19:30) and at the 9th hour(3pm), right before He died, He committed His spirit into God’s hands (Luke 23:46). At that moment, the curtain of the Temple was torn in two, earth shook, rocks split and zombies came out! All of this to supernaturally mark an undeniable event!
By 6 p.m. Good Friday evening, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, took Jesus' body down from the cross and put it in a tomb.
<b>SO WHAT?!~</b>
- Being treated wrongly, unfairly and unjustly stinks! Every bone in my body wants to speak up and prove myself right. And there are certainly times for that. What amazes me about Jesus was He considered MY life (and yours) worth more than being right. He had a much higher focus. Even the apostle Paul wrote, “Why not rather be wronged, why not rather be cheated?” (1 Cor 6:7)
- “It Is Finished” are three of the best words in the Bible! The payment Jesus made on the cross by giving HIS life for MY sin is ENOUGH! Nothing more is needed. Jesus + anything is not free grace! All it takes is simple, childlike faith in the person & work of Jesus. Grace is both scandalous and awesome!
- The Bible says that on this Friday, from the 6th hour until the 9th hour (noon – 3pm) darkness covered the land. It’s been our family tradition to have lunch in the dark on Good Friday. We eat, read the Bible passage above and talk about what it must have been like for Jesus. Maybe something like this will help your family to remember Jesus too!mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-68159569002512166342013-03-28T07:20:00.000-05:002013-03-28T07:20:02.342-05:00HOLY WEEK THURSDAY: Humility, Communion, Garden Prayer & Arrest
<b>Read Luke 22:1-65</b>
On Thursday of Holy Week, we see a sobering turn in the life of Jesus.
From Bethany Jesus sent Peter and John ahead to the find a guy carrying a jar who would show them an upper room in Jerusalem where they could make the preparations for the Passover feast (celebrating the Jews being freed from slavery in Egypt – Exodus 12) – pretty cool. That evening after sunset, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as they prepared to share in the Passover. What a humbling act of service by our Lord! Jesus demonstrated, by example, how we are to love one another (Many churches today will have “Maundy Thursday” services where they do foot washings as well as a Passover meal & communion).
After this foot washing, Jesus shared the feast of Passover with his disciples, something he was extremely passionate about doing one final time. Jesus, the Lamb of God, was about to fulfill the meaning of the Passover by giving his body to be broken and his blood to be shed in sacrifice, freeing you and me from sin and death! During this “Last Supper”, Jesus established what we call today the Lord's Supper or Communion. The reason we take communion today is because Jesus told us to regularly remember Him and what He did:
<i>And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. </i> Later, Jesus and the disciples left this upper room and went to the Garden of Gethsemane (located at the bottom of the Mount of Olives). Jesus prayed like never before to His Daddy in Heaven, wanting to do His Daddy’s will and at the same time agonizing with what He was about to face. The Bible then tells us that later that evening in Gethsemane, Jesus was betrayed with a kiss by Judas Iscariot and arrested by the Sanhedrin. He was taken to the home of Caiaphas, the High Priest, where the whole council had gathered to begin making their case against Jesus. It was while these illegal trials began in the middle of the night, that Peter would deny knowing his Master three times before the rooster crowed on Friday morning.
<b> SO WHAT?!~</b>
- Humility is one of Jesus’ characteristics and is meant to be the character of all believers. How is your humility? Is there anyone with whom you need to seek forgiveness with or humble yourself before? Do it today.
- In the Exodus Passover, the Lord would “pass over” all the homes that had blood on their doorframes and not bring judgment and death. Today, in the same way, when we trust in the blood of Jesus alone to forgive our sins, God does not punish us for our sins and instead gives us eternal life – WHOOHOOO!~ Have you put your trust & faith in what Jesus did for you? If not, why not do that right now and receive eternal life?!~ It doesn’t get any better than this!
- Who are your “Garden Friends?” Peter, James & John may have gotten a bad rap for falling asleep in the garden instead of being in prayer with our Lord – but at least they were THERE! Who are those 2-3 friends who are “there” for you? Why not thank the Lord for them today?! And then maybe ask yourself as well - who am I a “garden friend” to?
- Finally, ever be treated unfairly? If so, be assured that Jesus knows how you feel. Sometimes it’s better to be mistreated, rather than prove you are right. Let’s watch how Jesus responds tomorrow…
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-48166344936103722792013-03-27T07:47:00.002-05:002013-03-27T07:47:54.983-05:00HOLY WEEK WEDNESDAY: The Calm Before The Storm
<b>Read Psalm 23</b>
Because of what Revelation 22:18-19 says, I’ve always tried my best to teach what the Bible teaches and not to teach what it doesn’t teach! With that said, the Bible doesn't say exactly what the Lord did on Wednesday of Passion Week. Scholars (smarter than me) believe that after two exhausting days in Jerusalem, Jesus and his disciples spent this day resting in Bethany with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Bethany was about two miles east of Jerusalem. Most likely Mary, Martha & Lazarus hosted Jesus and the disciples during these final days in Jerusalem.
With this in mind, it’s kinda’ cool to think about how Jesus spent this final quiet day with His Dad in heaven and with His closest friends & followers.
<b>SO WHAT?!~</b>
- Silence & solitude is a rare thing in our culture, yet a must if we intend to have a deep relationship with Jesus! Where, when and how do you spend time alone with Jesus?
- Take time today to get alone with Jesus. If this is not a regular practice for you and you’d like it to become one but need ideas, I’ve got plenty of ideas for ya’ – just ask! If this IS a regular practice for you, share with me what you do. I’m always looking for fresh ways to deepen my own time with Jesus!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-17118969351290587672013-03-26T10:37:00.000-05:002013-03-26T10:37:03.011-05:00HOLY WEEK TUESDAY: A Withered Tree, Trickery, End Times & Betrayal
<b>Read Mark 11:20-26, Matthew23:24-33 & Matthew 26:14-16</b>
Tuesday was a pretty busy day fore our Lord! On this morning, Jesus and his disciples returned to Jerusalem. They passed the withered fig tree on their way, and observant Peter pointed it out! Class is always in session with our Jesus, so the disciples took yet another opportunity to learn from their Lord about faith & prayer!
When they reached the Temple, the religious leaders challenged Jesus' authority and tried to trick & trap Him with questions:
<i>“Is it right to pay taxes to Casear?”
“Which is the greatest commandment?”
“By what authority are you doing these things?”</i>
Yadda, Yadda, Yadda…….. did they think they’d trip up GOD?!~
Jesus talked right thru their traps and pronounced harsh judgment on them: Woe, Woe, Woe, Woe, Woe, Woe, Woe – 7 times He exposes who they are! Hyporcrites, Blind guides, whitewashed tombs, snakes, brood of vipers!~
Tuesday afternoon Jesus left the city and went with his disciples to the Mount of Olives, which overlooks Jerusalem due east of the Temple. Here Jesus gave what is known as the “Olivet Discourse”, which is an elaborate prophecy about the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the age. He taught in parables (symbolic language) about end times stuff. And Ha - the religious leaders knew these parables made them look bad – duh!
Finally, Tuesday was also the day Judas went to the Sanhedrin (the Holy Heavies) and negotiated with them to betray Jesus. After a tiring day of confrontation and warnings about the future, once again, Jesus and the disciples stayed the night in Bethany.
<b>SO WHAT?!~</b>
- How is your faith? Your prayer life? We don’t need a lot of faith, just a little faith in a BIG God!
- Jesus did not have very kind words for those whose focus was to look good on the outside and whose hearts were far from Him. How about us? God knows our hearts. Is there anything we need to ask forgiveness of so we can get our hearts right? If so, do it now. The sooner you learn you can’t trick Jesus, the better.
- Ever been betrayed by a friend? I have and pretty recently. It’s extremely painful and your heart doesn’t want to forgive. But if ever there is a time when we can imitate our Lord’s difficulties, this is one. Make it a point today to CHOOSE to forgive, even if the feelings aren’t there yet. AND, if you are the one who has betrayed, go seek forgiveness – today!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-27041244914521297802013-03-25T10:12:00.000-05:002013-03-25T10:12:58.953-05:00Holy Week Monday: Holy Flippin' Tables!~<b>Read Matthew 21:12-17</b>
On Monday morning, Jesus returned with his disciples to Jerusalem. Along the way, He cursed a fig tree because it had failed to bear fruit. When Jesus arrived at the Temple he found corrupt moneychangers ripping people off. Now, I’ve always had people tell me that when I get into a situation and I don’t know what to do, I should ask, “What Would Jesus Do?” – You know WWJD? Ha – not thinking I would have come up with what happened next!~ Jesus began flipping their tables and clearing the Temple, saying, <i>"The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be a house of prayer,' but you have turned it into a den of thieves."</i> Jesus was ticked off – a holy ticked off – and He let ‘em know the sin that they were involved in! Apparently Jesus didn’t take the course on “How to Win Friends and Influence Neighbors!” (LOL) Religiosity always angers our Lord who wants to have a personal relationship with us!
That evening Jesus again stayed in Bethany, most likely in the home of his friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
- Jesus said that if we remain in Him, we WILL bear much fruit. (John 15:5) How are you & I “remaining” in Him?
- What “fruit” are you and I currently producing?
- If Jesus came to our churches on Sunday, would he be flipping over tables?
- More than that, the Bible says our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. How are we treating God’s temple?
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-68464189365322131252013-03-23T11:29:00.001-05:002013-03-23T11:29:37.780-05:002013 Palm Sunday<i>“A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”</i> – Matthew 21:8-9
This Sunday is Palm Sunday – a pretty historically significant day in the life of Jesus! On the Sunday before his upcoming Friday crucifixion, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. The crowds knew He was coming, they had heard of all He had been doing, so they laid palm branches down as a sign of worship and were screaming “Hosanna” which means save us.
They wanted Jesus to save them from Roman rule but He had something far greater in mind. He had come to restore their relationship with His Dad – a relationship that we too lost because of our sin. Tragically, many of those yelling “save us” on this day, were the same people just a few days later yelling “crucify him.” Why is it that we often seem to be content with lesser, when God wants to give us better?
Jesus was killed in our place, to remove our sin, to restore our relationship with Him and to offer us our place in heaven for eternity with Him and his Father. And He offers this to ALL who simply trust in Him!~ I was twenty one when someone first shared this with me and I believed & received! How about you? Have your ever put your trust & faith in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of your sin and the hope of eternal life? You can right now, right where you are, by simply telling God what is on your heart: “I’m not perfect, I’ve sinned. You God are perfect and must punish sin. But I believe Jesus took the punishment I deserved and today I am trusting in Him alone to remove my sin and make me right with You!” The moment you believe this you begin a journey with God that starts now and lasts forever!
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
Since October of 1982 when I put my trust in Jesus, God has put a desire in my heart to both <i>Know Him and Make Him Known</i>. If today is your first day as a new believer, He will give you that desire as well. If you’re already a believer, God wants us share this great news with as many as we can so they too can be brought into this amazing relationship with Jesus!
<b>Here is my challenge for us all:</b> Tomorrow, for The CORE, we'll be discussing with students the above passage and what Palm Sunday is about. Would you prayerfully join us in the following application? The palm branches remind us of what Jesus did for us, so tomorrow, we'll be using the palm of our hand to remind us of those He died for. Think of 3 friends who don’t know Jesus yet and lets write their names on our palms. Then lets ask the Lord, as we look at those names this week on our hands, to remind us that they are crying out “save us”. And then, lets ask God to give us the opportunity to talk to them about Jesus this week! Maybe even by just asking them, "What does Easter mean to you?"
What an opportunity!
What a worthy cause!
May this be your best "Palm" Sunday ever because God gave one of your friends the opportunity to <b>Hear, Understand & Respond to the Good News of Jesus!<b></b></b>
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mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-86056906974616448992013-03-05T14:39:00.000-06:002013-03-05T14:39:06.996-06:002013 SYMCThis past weekend, Jean & I got to attend, for the fourth time, the Simply Youth Ministry Conference - and it ROCKED!~ #2800+ youth workers from across the nation (& world) coming together to become <b>STRONGER</b>!~
This year was the best of the four straight we've been privileged to be a part of. Personally, we came this year much healthier than last year (unemployed - yuk).
We came, determined to focus on the <b>relationship core value</b> the most, although we left experiencing the others as well. As we arrived, we got a Facebook message from Rodney & Emily, a couple that we connected with from our Veterans in Youth Ministry connect group that we led last year. We were able to have lunch Friday with them, reconnect and talk life & ministry - Totally Cool!
We also got a chance to hit the hotel diner, Velocity, and spend some time with Darren, Katie and Troy. we also got to have lunch with Jonathan and Josh - two guys we first connected with at IT Summit two years ago. (Congrats on your marriage in 12 days Josh!)
What we didn't know, before coming, is that we would develop so many new, even deep, relationships with those in our Transitions connect group, many who came to peer panels AND those on the peer panels!~
Dan & Becke with Cadence are transitioning from Germany to Korea - yeah, you heard me. And they share both their struggles and excitement! Aaron is leaving his current church to go back for moire school - needs to sell their home & a million other things. Jody left her church to begin a new ministry, has no idea how it will be funded, yet clear leading by the Lord to go for it! It was both humbling to listen and TOTALLY AWESOME to spend some time in prayer with these, and others, asking God to be in the center of their transitioning!
Then - oh my goodness - in the peer panels I was privileged to be a part of, I learned soooooo much! I got to know Tony Miles, Brian Berry, Wayne Yeager, David Perez, Jon Kelly, Len Evans, Jody, Liz Simmonds, Kelly Cohea and John Mulholland so much better. LOVED listening to heir wisdom too and, not sure if it was legal or not, but was taking notes on my phone as I listened! It was soooo great to listen to the questions (and wisdom) of all those who came and even get with them afterwards so we can connect after SYMC. (I've already connected with two peeps who came to those panels.)
Sunday Night IT3 Par-Tay was a "taste of glory divine" - hangin' offline with my online family was GREAT! Thanks Jason & Rick soooo much for all you do!~
Monday morning Mama Caro had a "small church breakfast" and it was cool to get with Ross, who came to one of my peer panels. We exchanged info and have already connected since returning.
We were also able to both listen to and pray with some IT3ers who are really struggling. I remember REALLY wanting and needing those prayers a year ago myself!
Finally, yeah, we loved the general sessions and we even sat in on a few workshops too - LOL!~ Darren, Steph, Brandon, Greg - y'all rocked those times!~
<b>So - my Top 3 take aways:</b>
1 - Relationships trump everything else!
2 - We need to get going on recruiting more volunteers for LEGACY!
3 - Thankful God sent us home stronger!
Until IT3 Summit,
mrbill
Philippians 1:3-6mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-37254255649676528572012-12-28T08:45:00.000-06:002012-12-28T08:45:28.834-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 260 - Revelation 22: JESUS IS COMING!!! This will be the final DEVO for 260 in 2012. Thanks for the privilege of reading thru the NT together. I hope it has helped each of us to KNOW JESUS & MAKE HIM KNOWN!
Again – this chapter ROCKS!
Kinda’ covered verses 1-5 in the previous devo, so we’ll pick up with verse 6.
John has been obediently penning (or whatever they used) everything he has been told. Everything is <i>“trustworthy and true” </i>and we are blessed if we obey God’s word! In amazement, John falls at his feet to worship, but even the angel knows he’s not the worthy one, <i>“Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant….Worship God!”</i> Immediate obedience was followed by immediate worship.
Then we read this incredible promise: <i>“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”</i> Amazing to think that God will reward our faithfulness. And a sad reality to think some will not believe.
We then read of God’s final invitation, <i>“The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” </i>God is still wishing that none perish but all come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
God’s final book of “HIS-story” concludes with a warning, <i>“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.”</i> Jesus IS coming back……and our response is to echo the words here of the apostle John, <i>“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” </i>And it’s all of grace!!!!
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*Scripture is clear that believers will not face judgment for their sins – which is AWESOME! But it is also clear we will be rewarded <i>“for what we have done.”</i> How are you & I presently involved in the good work God has for you (Ephesians 2:10)?
*The final warning reminds us how carefully we are to treat God’s Word, the Bible. It’s can be easy to read verses, translate it into our own lives and then take that translation and make IT God’s word. Be careful – from what I read in 18-19, that would NOT be good to do! Let’s say and teach what the Bible says and teaches and let’s not say and teach what it doesn’t! Which implies, we need to be in it!~
* I am sooooooo grateful for the privilege it has been to study & write devos for these 260 chapters! My prayer was that God would draw me closer to Him and He has answered! I hope they have been a blessing to those who have read them as well. More importantly, I hope reading the new testament has been a blessing. God’s words are living and active, mine are not!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-48025936565047426232012-12-27T06:52:00.000-06:002012-12-27T06:52:53.083-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 259 - Revelation 21: The New Creation<b>
These last two chapters totally ROCK!</b>
When Adam & Eve chose to go against God and sin entered our world, one of the results was God’s curse on our planet (Genesis 3:17). We not only live as sinners but in a sinful world and planet, but in this chapter, God changes that! <i>“Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth, ”for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…”</i>
What will this place be like? Hard to imagine a place without “sea” since 70% of our present planet is covered with water. It will be “Holy” because sin won’t exist. We will literally dwell with God! Tears will be wiped away and there will be no more death or mourning or pain. This will be the Garden of Eden recaptured! Who is this for? <i>“Those who are victorious”</i> – believers for whom Christ secured our victory!
<i>“Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.”</i> The capital city of heaven will be brilliantly glorious and like no other ever!
· Great wall – symbolizing protection
· Jewels as clear as crystal - beauty
· 12 amazing gates, 3 on each side – easily go in & out
· And our new home is a ginormous cube!
o 1400 miles wide, 1400 miles long & 1400 miles high! That’s like the distance from Katy, TX to the Canadian border & from the west coast of the USA to the Mississippi. This is a B-I-G place!
· Walls of jasper, city made of gold, multiple foundations of precious stones, a street of clear gold (whatever that is) and gates made of pearls (that is one huge oyster)! Unfathomable!
· No sun or moon because God’s glory is more than enough.
· Bountifully fruitful trees, river as clear as crystal, no curse,
· No night – sorry you nocturnal peeps.
· And best of all NO SIN!!!
· <b> Indescribable, Incomparable, Sinless, Beautiful Perfection!</b>
And all of these are the reward to those who belong to God <i>“whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”
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<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*Throughout history, believers have been pre-occupied with heaven (Hebrews 11:13, 16) and our citizenship (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 3:2). 1 Peter 2:11 describes us as “aliens” on this earth. So here’s my question: Are you and I looking forward to all that was described in this chapter more than we want all that the world has to offer? Instant gratification, materialism and comforts that this world offers can often blur our view. A heavenly perspective is vital because it causes us to live differently! How’s your perspective?
*Give thanks again today to God if your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life and if not, why not go to our Lord and ask Him to write it in there today!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-7939599815679102352012-12-26T08:15:00.000-06:002012-12-26T08:15:51.693-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 258 - Revelation 20: The 1000 Years & The Judgment
Ok, so basically you end up in one of three camps on this 1000 year reign thingy:
<b>Pre-millennium</b> – 1000 years is literal, Jesus’ second coming initiates His 1000 year reign and this occurs before the final removal of Satan.
<b>Post-millennium</b> - Also literal and Christ return after 1000 years to defeat Satan.
<b>Amillennium</b> - 1000 years is figurative and in the hearts of the believers – i.e. the church age.
I would classify myself as a pre-trib, pre-mill, rapture hopeful, ‘til further notice. Not that you care, but, just sayn’…..This chapter seems to be broken up into two sections.
The first 10 verses are about the coming earthly 1000 year kingdom of Jesus. God is doing these things and HE is in control = <i>“Key”</i> (as if He ever wasn’t). Satan will be removed, all humans who had survived the tribulation are executed at Armageddon. The <i>“Abyss”</i> is a temporary holding place of torment for Satan & his demons. When the 1000 years is over Satan will return to deceive the world (4 corners) and go into a battle. And like Armageddon, it will be an execution – <i>“fire came down from heaven and devoured them. And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”
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The remainder of the chapter has to do with man’s last day in court, which is quite sobering. This is God’s judgment on sin and unbelieving sinners. <i>“The earth and the heavens fled from his presence…” </i>because they were sinful and to prepare for the new heaven and earth. The <i>“dead”</i> are all unbelievers who have ever lived – remember, believers will NOT face this judgment because they have been washed by the blood of Christ! (Romans 8:1, John 3:18 & 5:24) <i>“Books were opened” </i>– this is a record of every thought, word & deed of every unsaved person – wowsa! Sooooo glad Jesus took those for me!~ <i>“Another book was opened, which is the book of life.”</i> This has the name of every believer, God’s kids! This is the ONE book you want your name in!!! And it says judgment occurred. There will be no appeals, no hung juries, no mistrials at this one.
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*Regardless of where you & I place the 1000 years, the judgment on sin and sinner WILL eventually occur. And it will be just and swift. In light of this are two responses:
1 – Absolute praise and joy for those whose names are written in the book of life! Because by grace through faith we believed in what Jesus did (and we couldn’t do) to make us right with God, we will never face this judgment – WHOOHOO!!!!! Thank you Jesus!
2 – Absolute horror for those who refused to believe and receive God’s offer of forgiveness in Christ, because they will be tormented forever!
I pray that you are a part of the first response. If you are, why not tell God thanks today! If you’re not, I beg you to believe and receive Jesus today!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-76966847933856828652012-12-25T21:23:00.000-06:002012-12-25T21:23:25.224-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 257 - Revelation 19: Loud Cheering!
Whew – we made it through chapters 6-18! Certainly 14:16 has proven true: <i>“This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God!”</i>
Now it’s time for God’s people to sing and this chapter if filled with songs of cheering: The Hallelujah Chorus, Salvation Belongs to Our God, Crown Him with Many Crowns, His Truth is Marching On, Be to Our God, etc…. God has won the battle and the victory causes us to praise the Lord – which is what “hallelujah” means!
In this chapter we read of the activity of the angels, the 24 elders, the 4 living creatures and the redeemed saints – all of which are praising the Lord! Why? <i>“For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.”</i> This will begin the earthly kingdom of God and we see the church (bride) finally pure! And <i>“Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!”</i> Of all the invites you could ever get, this is the best invitation in the universe!
We then see the real white horse of victory! Notice the descriptions of Jesus here:
<i>“Faithful and True” </i>
<i>“The Word of God”</i>
<i>“King of Kings and “Lord of Lords” </i>(buy the way, is this one a tattoo?)
The antichrist and the false prophet are captured and <i>“thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”</i> The gross metaphors in this chapter are meant to show the completeness of the victory by our Lord.
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*The thing that will consume our relationship with God in heaven is WORSHIP! How are you involved in worshipping our Lord right now? Publically, do you gather with other believers regularly (church) to worship God? We are commanded to (Hebrews 10:24-25). Privately, do you spend regular time with God in the Bible and in prayer? We need to if we want to develop this wonderful relationship with our Creator!
*How are you cheering for God? We’ll yell like crazy for our sports teams, but do you & I show our support for God and His ways? I truly believe one of the titles all believers could have is “cheerleader.” In the way we live, in the words we speak, in the things we think about, are you & I “saying” GO GOD!?~
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-46710556570777814882012-12-24T08:18:00.000-06:002012-12-24T08:18:53.330-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 256 - Revelation 18: History & Fall of Babylon – Part 2
In this chapter we see God’s judgment on the great Satanic system of evil. In doing so, the Author uses OT accounts of the destruction of harlot cities. These pronouncements come from heavenly authority.
<i>”Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!”</i> This world system in which we live in seeks to deceive us, to distract us, to destroy us and to devour us. And here, in the end, God will destroy it! The believers role is to not follow it with it’s riches, luxuries, boasts and promises but follow Christ!
There is tons of imagery in this chapter – too numerous to go through. <i>“In one hour” </i>(3x’s) would be better translated “In such a short time.” Sin looks so good, but like Moses we are to choose to follow God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Hebrews 11:25).
<i>“Kings of the earth”</i> are those in leadership. <i>“Merchants of the earth”</i> are those who make money from her.<i>”Every sea captain”</i> are those who suffer loss from hauling her goods. <i>“In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!”</i> Those whose hope is in the world’s system will lose everything when it collapses (Example: Enron).
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*In what or in whom are you trusting in? Finances? Brains? Athletic ability? Accomplishments? Titles? Your spouse? Your broker? Your pastor? Whenever we place our trust in anyone or anything other than God, we will be disappointed!
*How are you & I laying up treasures in heaven? If this world and it’s system is truly only temporary, then how are we investing in eternal things?mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-55426057059478440962012-12-21T08:24:00.000-06:002012-12-21T08:24:14.668-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 254 - Revelation 16: Seven Bowls of God’s Wrath
In this chapter, the Greek word “megas” appears 16 times, more than anywhere else in the new testament, because them emphasis is on greatness. God sorta’ gets on His megaphone and gives the command. It’s time for the “third woe” (11:14).
<b>First Bowl:</b> Recalls the 6th plague under Moses –<i> “ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark…”</i> This will be a universal & agonizing pain that won’t go away.
<b>Second Bowl:</b> <i>“sea…….turned into blood …..and every living thing in the sea died.”</i> Unlike the 3rd trumpet which only affected some water (8:10), this one is universal.
<b>Third Bowl:</b> Ok, now the fresh waters are turned to blood, killing all life in them. The first Egyptian plague affected the Nile, here all rivers are affected and people will not be able to tap into the water table like the Egyptians did (Ex 7:24). Then there’s a pause for an angel to sing and somehow the altar agrees – coolz!
<b>Fourth Bowl:</b> Intense heat from the sun scorches people. Yet even among this intense agony, there is no repentance, but instead <i>“they cursed the name of God…..refused to repent and glorify Him.”</i>
<b>Fifth Bowl:</b> Here, Satan’s entire human system is thrown into disarray & chaos. There is world-wide darkness. People are in such agony that they chew on themselves trying to alleviate the pain. What is sadly more amazing is that wicked men & women will still not repent even when face with such catastrophic conditions!
<b>Sixth Bowl:</b> This is parallel to the 6th trumpet. Like the 5th seal, it doesn’t bring immediate pain but prepares for the future – assembling of armies to fight God – a hopeless cause! <i>“Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.”</i> The three evil spirits I believe represent the combined forces of evil in the world.
<b>Seventh Bowl:</b> With the pouring out of this bowl, God’s end time wrath is completed.<i> “It is done”</i> matches Jesus’ words on the cross. This bowl results in the opening of Heaven and the Son of Man coming forth for the final great (“megas”) battle. This earthquake is off the Richter scale! And the destruction somehow even causes islands to flee, mountains to be found nowhere around and 100lb hailstones are tossed at people – mega ouch! The result? <i>“They cursed God.”</i>
<b>SO WHAT?!</b>
*What physical pain & suffering are you going through right now? As painful as it may be (and I’m not down sizing your pain) it will NEVER COMPARE to the physical pain and agony people will face who do not put their trust & faith in Jesus Christ! TODAY is the day for you to believe if you have not yet done so! Hebrews 3:7-12
*This passage ought to bring an urgency to see our family, our friends and our neighbors Know Jesus & Make Him Known! Lord, help us to lovingly and graciously bring you up with someone today who needs you and please cause them to believe! Acts 16:31
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2985535213351659206.post-5351358484504046922012-12-20T07:56:00.000-06:002012-12-20T07:56:05.233-06:00260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 255 - Revelation 17: History & Fall of Babylon – Part 1
Chris Tomlin sings, <i>“You and I were made to worship.”</i> These words chime with the words of God in Ecclesiastes 3:11. We all have this “God-shaped vacuum” inside of us and our enemy wants us to try to fill it with everything but God. Throughout history, Babylon has been an important center for false worship. I’ll split this devo into 3 sections:
<b>The Woman & the Beast (1-6a):</b> <i>“great prostitute”</i> is a metaphor for false religion, idolatry & the word’s evil system. The <i>“kings of the earth”</i> are unbelieving people of hiogh ranks eho commit spiritual adultery. He “woman” is sitting on (supported by) the beast (the anti-christ). She is dresses spiritually attractive – purple (royalty), scarlet (blood), gold, stones & pearls. She had a “name written” points to their culture where prostitutes had to identify themselves. I don’t believe Babylon so much represents a geographic location as much as a symbol of all worldliness. She is bad stuff and is <i>“drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus.”</i>
<b>“Explanation” by the Angel (6b-14):</b> Ok – John is confused……..and I can relate! 7 heads = 7 hills: This may be Rome. 7 Kings could represent 7 world empires: At this time, Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persian & Greece had fallen, but not Rome and one yet to come. Almost sounds like the beast is both the 7th & 8th King, which is possible if you count the fake resurrection – I’m not sure on this stuff….hehe… I DO know they come with one agenda – to wage war! <i>“But the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings.”
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<b>Judgment of the Woman (15-18):</b> I believe the waters represent world-wide domination. The extreme and graphic violence done to the prostitute is God’s judgment on her – <i>“God’s words are fulfilled.”</i>
SO WHAT?!
*Are you or I guilty of spiritual adultery? What does that look like? How about any time we worship anything or anyone other than God – gulp! What is the focus of our thoughts? Stuff? Pleasure? Recognition? Accomplishments? Abilities? Etc… Lord, please help me to keep my eyes on YOU and my hands reaching out to a world that desperately needs you!
*In what ways have you bought into this evil world’s system and it’s lies? Lets spend time in God’s Word, filling out minds with truth so we can spot fakes as they come!
mrbill6761http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374776007855611772noreply@blogger.com0