10/21/2009
Kutless - Better Is One Day
Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. - Psalm 84:10
10/19/2009
Art has sent you a message on GROUNDED...
A Young Man had been caught in a daring act of theft and had been condemned to be executed for it. He expressed his desire to see his Mother, and to speak with her before he was led to execution, and of course this was granted. When his Mother came to him he said: “I want to whisper to you,” and when she brought her ear to him, he nearly bit it off. All the bystanders were horrified, and asked him what he could mean by such brutal and inhuman conduct. “It is to punish her,” he said. “When I was young I began with stealing little things, and brought them home to Mother. Instead of rebuking and punishing me, she laughed and said: ‘It will not be noticed.’ It is because of her that I am here today.”
“He is right, woman,” said the Priest; “the Lord hath said:
‘TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO; AND WHEN HE IS OLD HE WILL NOT DEPART THEREFROM.’ "
A Young Man had been caught in a daring act of theft and had been condemned to be executed for it. He expressed his desire to see his Mother, and to speak with her before he was led to execution, and of course this was granted. When his Mother came to him he said: “I want to whisper to you,” and when she brought her ear to him, he nearly bit it off. All the bystanders were horrified, and asked him what he could mean by such brutal and inhuman conduct. “It is to punish her,” he said. “When I was young I began with stealing little things, and brought them home to Mother. Instead of rebuking and punishing me, she laughed and said: ‘It will not be noticed.’ It is because of her that I am here today.”
“He is right, woman,” said the Priest; “the Lord hath said:
‘TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO; AND WHEN HE IS OLD HE WILL NOT DEPART THEREFROM.’ "
10/18/2009
10/17/2009
Mortal - Mytho X
1 Timothy 1:3-5
What you believe defines your reality. When reality consists of ideas forged into action; what you believe becomes excruciatingly important. Try God!
rebel, pariah
balanced on the tightrope of fear
hero, warrior
relics of a golden age
when i see the dying children
fighting desperately to breathe
then words cut to the heart
asking What do you believe?
what is real?
God, man, mytho-x
is He real?
is He real to you?
legend, demigod
mortal life is never enough
savior, messiah
ripped the revolution with love
all the empty people
walking the dead-end street
love by example
is to walk with Jesus' feet
it's time to make up your mind
cutting loose these invisible strings
stripped from worldly tethers
it all comes down to just one thing
What is real?
10/16/2009
I've been through some things in my life that a lot of people wouldn't believe. My own mother told me that most adults don't ever have to go through what I was going through as a teenager. The only thing that got me out of it and helped me to overcome and be strong was Jesus. That's part of why I love God so much and have a strong faith, and want others to know what I have come to know. It's not some "oh I grew up in church and I'm just telling u what I was told" because I didn't. No, it's my own experience and knowledge, my real life. I would have killed myself years ago if it wasn't for God. He literally rescued me from total darkness and hell. God has a love for you that is better and stronger than any other possible. That is why He sent Jesus, his only begotten son, to die for your sins and bring you into a right relationship with Him, and go to Heaven someday. He knows you're not perfect. He wants you to come as you are and He will take care of the rest.
10/15/2009
Make halloween a soul winning event.
Instead of actually participating in halloween's ungodliness or instead of turning off the lights in order to avoid it completely, try spreading the Gospel instead and taking advantage of the opportunity that there will be door-to-door, trick-or-treating kids. I no longer participate in normal halloween activities since I've become a Christian, but I do take advantage of the easy opportunity to reach out to those kids that come knocking on my door. I buy Gospel tracts specially designed for kids and some of them have more of a halloween theme to them (I buy them off www.chick.com and www.atstracts.org). Then, I pass them out. After a while, I go around the neighborhood and put them on peoples front porches or somewhere they will notice later on, and try to pass them out to a few people as well. By that time, the younger kids are gone for the most part and it's really just the teenagers that are roaming about. I've never had a complaint about them, only a couple of adults that weren't interested. But, the kids accept them and never look down on it. Some of them look excited when they see what I have to give them (one boy said "I love these!"). I give them something different. They can get candy anywhere else, but at my house they get a kid-themed Gospel tract. Most of the ones I give out are in comic-book style only with a story that leads up to the Gospel message. I also hope that their parents will read it and it will give them something to think about. I pray before and after the event that God will use it to bless those kids and hopefully their families as well.
Here are some tips about using Gospel tracts on halloween (from www.chick.com):
1. Let Trick-or-Treaters pick from a tray stocked with different Chick tracts. (my note: or just hand them out like candy which is what I do)
2. Pass out Chick tracts at Haunted Houses.
3. Put a Chick tract under windshield wipers at adult Halloween parties.
4. Leave tracts in the candy section of stores.
5. Set up a table and give Trick-or-Treaters Chick tracts as they pass by your church.
6. Go house to house saying, "Trick or Tract," then hand the person a Chick tract.
7. Share Halloween tracts at school.
8. Leave Chick tracts at Costume shops.
9. Hit the streets, shouting, "Free comic books!" You'll be swarmed with requests.
10. Won't be home? Leave a box of Chick tracts at your front door with instructions.
11. Give some of your tracts to your Christian friends to get them involved.
12. Organize a church-wide Chick tract distribution project.
13. Hand out tracts at places where they sell Halloween pumpkins.
Buy Chick Tracts here.
Buy ATS Tracts here.
Here are some tips about using Gospel tracts on halloween (from www.chick.com):
1. Let Trick-or-Treaters pick from a tray stocked with different Chick tracts. (my note: or just hand them out like candy which is what I do)
2. Pass out Chick tracts at Haunted Houses.
3. Put a Chick tract under windshield wipers at adult Halloween parties.
4. Leave tracts in the candy section of stores.
5. Set up a table and give Trick-or-Treaters Chick tracts as they pass by your church.
6. Go house to house saying, "Trick or Tract," then hand the person a Chick tract.
7. Share Halloween tracts at school.
8. Leave Chick tracts at Costume shops.
9. Hit the streets, shouting, "Free comic books!" You'll be swarmed with requests.
10. Won't be home? Leave a box of Chick tracts at your front door with instructions.
11. Give some of your tracts to your Christian friends to get them involved.
12. Organize a church-wide Chick tract distribution project.
13. Hand out tracts at places where they sell Halloween pumpkins.
Buy Chick Tracts here.
Buy ATS Tracts here.
Jars Of Clay - Dead Man (Carry Me)
January 1:
I've got a lot of things on my mind.
I'm looking at my body
through a new spy sattelite.
I try to lift a finger,
but I don't think I can make the call.
So tell me if I move,
'cause I don't feel anything at all.
Oh, oh, oh...
So carry me!
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.
I woke up from my dream
about an empty funeral.
But it was better than the party
full of people I don't really know.
Well, they've got hearts to break and burn,
dirty hands to feel the earth.
I've got something in my veins,
but I can't seem to make it work...
...won't work.
So carry me!
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.
Can you find a beat... Inside of me?
Any pulse? Getting worse...
Any pulse? Getting worse...
Inside of me... Can you find a beat?
Carry me!
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.
Carry me!
(Carry me!)
I'm just a dead man,
lying on the carpet,
can't find a heartbeat.
Make me breathe!
(Make me breathe!)
I wanna be a new man,
I'm tired of the old one;
off with the old plan.
Song: Dead Man/Carry Me
Artist: Jars Of Clay
Album: Good Monsters (2005)
Stryper Turns 25
By Andy Argyrakis, senior music editor, GospelMusicChannel.com
It would be impressive enough to celebrate multi-platinum sales status, a plethora of hit videos on MTV and sold-out shows all across the globe, but in the case of Stryper, that also includes being the first faith-based band to successfully embark on a major crossover to mainstream. And now 25 years after the yellow-and-black-outfit-wearers first found fame, the original foursome is back and just as explosive as before, honoring the milestone with a 54-city North American tour this fall, followed by international dates throughout 2010.
New tunes, classic sounds and themes
Given the band’s hit-filled heavy metal history, it’s no surprise to see shows in all corners of the globe packing out with die-hards and newcomers alike thanks to an undeniable resurgence of ‘80s rock. Nonetheless, the crowds being drawn are nothing short of a surprising and surreal experience for frontman Michael Sweet, guitarist Oz Fox, drummer Robert Sweet and bassist Tim Gaines.
“I don’t think we had any expectations in the very beginning of this blowing up into what did,” Fox tells GospelMusicChannel.com backstage at the band’s recent House of Blues show in Chicago. “In the ‘80s, there were a lot of bands, but only a handful that were really successful and we’re thankful we got as popular as we did. And to continue to do that 25 years later, wow, what do you say to that? We’re just very thankful.”
Though the monumental anniversary is certainly a reason to head out on the road, the other catalyst is a brand-new studio CD called Murder By Pride, which hearkens back to the group’s melodic glory days, coupled with shades of the current hard rock climate. All the while, the message is just as seeker-friendly as it is grounded in the Gospel, continuing in Stryper’s tradition of witnessing to the world and encouraging the church at the same time.
“When I wrote [the title track] I was certainly thinking of myself [and the idea of] going to church on Sunday, hearing the message and leaving feeling like a new man,” Sweet explains via email. (Publicist Brian Mayes of Nashville Publicity Group is keeping the singer in strict “vocal preservation mode.”) We’ll have to let him slide just this once given the grueling tour schedule and fact that Stryper’s notes are just as sky high as members’ hair used to be. “But then you go throughout the week getting beat up by the world and by your own pride. I have a lot of pride – we all do – and we are being held back and murdered by it. [Even so, it’s all about] moving forward and not letting pride hold you back, but rather moving forward in Christ.”
Blazing a crossover trail
As Murder By Pride amasses fan and critical acclaim, it’s also sparked renewed interest in the band’s discography, which includes such blockbuster albums as mid-‘80s staples Soldiers Under Command, The Yellow and Black Attack and To Hell with the Devil. During that time period, singles like “Free” and “Honestly” became some of the most requested videos on MTV, followed by a GRAMMY nomination, plus a slew of secular radio and late night television talk show appearances. The band also ignited a media frenzy due to its color coordinated spandex outfits, striped instruments, outrageous hair styles and even bolder messages, simultaneously becoming the subject of enormous adulation and intense scrutiny.
(continued from page 1)
“We were called to do this and we needed to make a statement, presenting the gospel in a different way to places where traditional gospel music wouldn’t reach,” Fox recalls of Stryper’s initial strategy. “On the mainstream media side, there was quite a bit of eyebrow raising from Time and Newsweek, who thought Christian metal was controversial, and then on the Christian side, there were people saying metal was Satanic in general. When we would tour, we’d always have secular groups open for us in hopes that it would draw in non-believers thinking it was just a regular rock show. We got flack for that from some churches, but...you’ve gotta let that stuff slip off and trust God.”
As times have changed and Christian culture has become much more accepting of alternative music (not to mention a number of mainstream Christian acts) Stryper’s ministry techniques don’t seem as extreme as they once did, though they remain just as effective. In fact, the guys still hold onto their pattern of throwing Bibles into the crowd (even at club and bar shows) in hopes of influencing someone who came to the concert based off their celebrity rather than Christianity.
“This year we’ve partnered with an organization called One Verse,” Sweet continues. “They do Bible translations in languages that don’t yet have God’s word in their native language. We believe everyone, regardless of their beliefs or background, should have the opportunity to read the Bible.”
Laying a legacy
Thus far, that plan’s proven quite effective, not only when it comes to saving souls, but also continuing the group’s spiritual and pop culture legacy. Though Mayes has worked with the band since the release of 7: The Best of Stryper on Hollywood Records in 2003, response for the new album and anniversary tour is by far the most overwhelming he’s witnessed.
“You would have to be a recluse to avoid seeing Stryper references these days,” he asserts. “Just in the past few months, there have been mentions on ‘Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,’ ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ and the band even shows up in the new Drew Barrymore film ‘Whip It’ as a major plot point. Stryper opened the doors for everyone out there playing Christian rock today. Before Stryper, there was nothing like this – and they not only broke ground, but carried the cross for it as well. They were criticized and protested, but they continued on. Younger music fans may not realize that Stryper was the first Christian band to go double platinum and the first Christian band to get airplay on MTV.”
Canada’s red hot rockers Manic Drive credit Stryper as being key influences on its career thus far (even if its musical stylings are decidedly more modern). The trio is absolutely thrilled to be opening up the anniversary concerts every evening. The highly coveted slot came as a result of both bands sharing a showcase slot during Gospel Music Week and being personally chosen by the headliners.
“These shows have been packed out and the energy in the audience is always great,” verifies Manic Drive guitarist Michael Cavallo. “They’re definitely pioneers and they’ve made it cool to be bold, between throwing Bibles on stage to touring with Bon Jovi. They were being strong in faith and encouraging people with positive rock well before P.O.D. and Switchfoot, laying the foundation and encouraging bands like us to go for it as well.”
---
About the Writer
Andy Argyrakis is a Chicago-based entertainment writer/photographer who appears in the Chicago Tribune, Illinois Entertainer, Daily Journal, Concert Livewire, Hear/Say Magazine and Image Chicago (to name few). His record label writing credits include Warner Brothers, Atlantic, Curb, EMI and Universal, with additional photo credits for Fuse TV, Live Nation, Nikon, Pollstar, Celebrity Access, Paste Magazine, MTV.com and Vibe.com. He’s also the author/narrator of "Access Matthews" (an audio CD tracing the career of Dave Matthews Band) and spends considerable time on tour, including outings with Arlo Guthrie, The Guess Who, Madina Lake (on Linkin Park’s Projekt Revolution) and Gospel Music Channel’s very own "Gospel Dream" (where he served as season one judge).
© 2009 Gospel Music Channel
It would be impressive enough to celebrate multi-platinum sales status, a plethora of hit videos on MTV and sold-out shows all across the globe, but in the case of Stryper, that also includes being the first faith-based band to successfully embark on a major crossover to mainstream. And now 25 years after the yellow-and-black-outfit-wearers first found fame, the original foursome is back and just as explosive as before, honoring the milestone with a 54-city North American tour this fall, followed by international dates throughout 2010.
New tunes, classic sounds and themes
Given the band’s hit-filled heavy metal history, it’s no surprise to see shows in all corners of the globe packing out with die-hards and newcomers alike thanks to an undeniable resurgence of ‘80s rock. Nonetheless, the crowds being drawn are nothing short of a surprising and surreal experience for frontman Michael Sweet, guitarist Oz Fox, drummer Robert Sweet and bassist Tim Gaines.
“I don’t think we had any expectations in the very beginning of this blowing up into what did,” Fox tells GospelMusicChannel.com backstage at the band’s recent House of Blues show in Chicago. “In the ‘80s, there were a lot of bands, but only a handful that were really successful and we’re thankful we got as popular as we did. And to continue to do that 25 years later, wow, what do you say to that? We’re just very thankful.”
Though the monumental anniversary is certainly a reason to head out on the road, the other catalyst is a brand-new studio CD called Murder By Pride, which hearkens back to the group’s melodic glory days, coupled with shades of the current hard rock climate. All the while, the message is just as seeker-friendly as it is grounded in the Gospel, continuing in Stryper’s tradition of witnessing to the world and encouraging the church at the same time.
“When I wrote [the title track] I was certainly thinking of myself [and the idea of] going to church on Sunday, hearing the message and leaving feeling like a new man,” Sweet explains via email. (Publicist Brian Mayes of Nashville Publicity Group is keeping the singer in strict “vocal preservation mode.”) We’ll have to let him slide just this once given the grueling tour schedule and fact that Stryper’s notes are just as sky high as members’ hair used to be. “But then you go throughout the week getting beat up by the world and by your own pride. I have a lot of pride – we all do – and we are being held back and murdered by it. [Even so, it’s all about] moving forward and not letting pride hold you back, but rather moving forward in Christ.”
Blazing a crossover trail
As Murder By Pride amasses fan and critical acclaim, it’s also sparked renewed interest in the band’s discography, which includes such blockbuster albums as mid-‘80s staples Soldiers Under Command, The Yellow and Black Attack and To Hell with the Devil. During that time period, singles like “Free” and “Honestly” became some of the most requested videos on MTV, followed by a GRAMMY nomination, plus a slew of secular radio and late night television talk show appearances. The band also ignited a media frenzy due to its color coordinated spandex outfits, striped instruments, outrageous hair styles and even bolder messages, simultaneously becoming the subject of enormous adulation and intense scrutiny.
(continued from page 1)
“We were called to do this and we needed to make a statement, presenting the gospel in a different way to places where traditional gospel music wouldn’t reach,” Fox recalls of Stryper’s initial strategy. “On the mainstream media side, there was quite a bit of eyebrow raising from Time and Newsweek, who thought Christian metal was controversial, and then on the Christian side, there were people saying metal was Satanic in general. When we would tour, we’d always have secular groups open for us in hopes that it would draw in non-believers thinking it was just a regular rock show. We got flack for that from some churches, but...you’ve gotta let that stuff slip off and trust God.”
As times have changed and Christian culture has become much more accepting of alternative music (not to mention a number of mainstream Christian acts) Stryper’s ministry techniques don’t seem as extreme as they once did, though they remain just as effective. In fact, the guys still hold onto their pattern of throwing Bibles into the crowd (even at club and bar shows) in hopes of influencing someone who came to the concert based off their celebrity rather than Christianity.
“This year we’ve partnered with an organization called One Verse,” Sweet continues. “They do Bible translations in languages that don’t yet have God’s word in their native language. We believe everyone, regardless of their beliefs or background, should have the opportunity to read the Bible.”
Laying a legacy
Thus far, that plan’s proven quite effective, not only when it comes to saving souls, but also continuing the group’s spiritual and pop culture legacy. Though Mayes has worked with the band since the release of 7: The Best of Stryper on Hollywood Records in 2003, response for the new album and anniversary tour is by far the most overwhelming he’s witnessed.
“You would have to be a recluse to avoid seeing Stryper references these days,” he asserts. “Just in the past few months, there have been mentions on ‘Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,’ ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ and the band even shows up in the new Drew Barrymore film ‘Whip It’ as a major plot point. Stryper opened the doors for everyone out there playing Christian rock today. Before Stryper, there was nothing like this – and they not only broke ground, but carried the cross for it as well. They were criticized and protested, but they continued on. Younger music fans may not realize that Stryper was the first Christian band to go double platinum and the first Christian band to get airplay on MTV.”
Canada’s red hot rockers Manic Drive credit Stryper as being key influences on its career thus far (even if its musical stylings are decidedly more modern). The trio is absolutely thrilled to be opening up the anniversary concerts every evening. The highly coveted slot came as a result of both bands sharing a showcase slot during Gospel Music Week and being personally chosen by the headliners.
“These shows have been packed out and the energy in the audience is always great,” verifies Manic Drive guitarist Michael Cavallo. “They’re definitely pioneers and they’ve made it cool to be bold, between throwing Bibles on stage to touring with Bon Jovi. They were being strong in faith and encouraging people with positive rock well before P.O.D. and Switchfoot, laying the foundation and encouraging bands like us to go for it as well.”
---
About the Writer
Andy Argyrakis is a Chicago-based entertainment writer/photographer who appears in the Chicago Tribune, Illinois Entertainer, Daily Journal, Concert Livewire, Hear/Say Magazine and Image Chicago (to name few). His record label writing credits include Warner Brothers, Atlantic, Curb, EMI and Universal, with additional photo credits for Fuse TV, Live Nation, Nikon, Pollstar, Celebrity Access, Paste Magazine, MTV.com and Vibe.com. He’s also the author/narrator of "Access Matthews" (an audio CD tracing the career of Dave Matthews Band) and spends considerable time on tour, including outings with Arlo Guthrie, The Guess Who, Madina Lake (on Linkin Park’s Projekt Revolution) and Gospel Music Channel’s very own "Gospel Dream" (where he served as season one judge).
© 2009 Gospel Music Channel
10/14/2009
Never Stop Believing In Miracles
The following email was sent to C28 Palm Desert store manager, Dana Karr. This is a great reminder to never stop believing in Miracles!
===========
Dana,
Guess what God did? Just got back from the orthopedist, and our prayers were answered!!!! You prayed for my 16 year old son Daniel when I came into the store.
Daniel had a severe bend in his spine for the last two years, with his orthopedist, chiropractor, and physical therapist all telling me that it would never get better, we could only hope for it not getting worse. There was much talk about surgeries, etc. Before I left the store, you asked me if you could pray for anything for me. You asked God for a miracle for Daniel that day. I was so touched by your prayer, and I realized that I had not been believing God for a miracle, rather just praying that it wouldn't get any worse. Your prayer ignited my faith, and I began asking others to pray for a miracle for Daniel. The x-ray today showed Daniel's spine has straightened out 10 degrees, putting him into the 'normal' range!! The doctor said he doesn't ever need to be seen by him again.
Thank you so much for standing in faith with me and boldly asking God for a miracle. I am sure it hasn't sunk in for Daniel yet, but I know that God healed him, not just to help him physically, but to show Daniel His great love for him.
Fondly,
Susan E.
C2:8, Inc ©2009 - - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.c28.com/stories/fullstory.asp?StoryID=726&adid=10-15-09
===========
Dana,
Guess what God did? Just got back from the orthopedist, and our prayers were answered!!!! You prayed for my 16 year old son Daniel when I came into the store.
Daniel had a severe bend in his spine for the last two years, with his orthopedist, chiropractor, and physical therapist all telling me that it would never get better, we could only hope for it not getting worse. There was much talk about surgeries, etc. Before I left the store, you asked me if you could pray for anything for me. You asked God for a miracle for Daniel that day. I was so touched by your prayer, and I realized that I had not been believing God for a miracle, rather just praying that it wouldn't get any worse. Your prayer ignited my faith, and I began asking others to pray for a miracle for Daniel. The x-ray today showed Daniel's spine has straightened out 10 degrees, putting him into the 'normal' range!! The doctor said he doesn't ever need to be seen by him again.
Thank you so much for standing in faith with me and boldly asking God for a miracle. I am sure it hasn't sunk in for Daniel yet, but I know that God healed him, not just to help him physically, but to show Daniel His great love for him.
Fondly,
Susan E.
C2:8, Inc ©2009 - - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.c28.com/stories/fullstory.asp?StoryID=726&adid=10-15-09
10/10/2009
Who's The Real Winner?
People can look down on me, laugh at me and say all kinds of evil against me, but who's the real winner? Me. Still, I never hate anyone. I only love. I just feel sorry for them bcuz they don't understand how wrong they are and how much they are hurting themselves Someday there will be justice, but for now there is mercy. If God is for me then who cares who's against me. What can mere man do to me? You can kill my body, but you can't kill my soul which is alive and renewed through Christ Jesus. I have an eternal home in happiness and God's divine Spirit within me.
10/09/2009
Dealing With Hurts/Anger
By Charles F. Stanley
As a young man, Jim wanted to be a medical doctor. Yet when the time came for him to go off to college, his father forced him to stay on the family farm and work. By age 23, Jim had taken all he could. He packed up his belongings, loaded up his car, and left. He drove away with a heart full of bitterness and resentment towards his father.
Everywhere Jim went, he had a difficult time getting along with others. He seemed unable to make long-lasting friendships and suffered from rejection and isolation. Consequently, he found himself moving from job to job; he was never able to settle down.
Finally, he met a woman who really cared for him, and after a brief engagement, they were married. Yet within three weeks of the wedding, Jim had an unexpected outburst that marked the beginning of over 40 years of hell on earth for his loyal wife. Right up to the last days of his life—when he was senile, nearly blind, and unable to care for himself—the poison of bitterness continued to eat away at Jim’s heart. And all because he failed to deal with the rejection and hurt he experienced as a teenager.
Developing an unforgiving spirit
From years of talking to people, I have noticed ten common phases related to hurtful situations and forgiveness. Not everyone will pass through each stage, but most people with an unforgiving spirit will be able to identify with several of these scenarios.
1) We get hurt. The seeds of unforgiveness are planted when we are wronged or hurt physically, emotionally, or verbally. We may feel pain, abandonment, embarrassment, hatred, or some other negative emotion. But I believe all hurt has its roots in rejection. Feeling rejected, then, is the first stage in developing an unforgiving spirit.
2) We become confused. Often our first response to hurt is bewilderment. In this stage, we may think, This is not really happening. We may even have a physical reaction, such as a deep feeling of emptiness in the pit of the stomach. This phase is usually short-lived.
3) We look for detours. Since all of us have a desire to avoid discomfort, we find ways of avoiding painful thoughts and memories. We take mental detours. This drive motivates some people to drink heavily or become addicted to drugs.
We also take physical detours, avoiding certain people, places, and things. Anything that reminds us of the hurt becomes off-limits. For instance, a minister’s daughter, who was full of bitterness towards her father, told me, “I would never marry a preacher.” To her, clergymen were to be avoided at all costs.
4) We dig a hole. After rearranging our thought patterns and lives to avoid contact with any reminder of our hurt, we attempt to forget that the painful experience ever occurred.
5) We deny it. This phase is characterized by our denial that we were ever hurt or that we are covering up anything. We may say, “Oh, I dealt with that” or “I forgave him long ago.” Breaking out of this stage can be tough. I have met scores of adults who are carrying around a load of bitterness—it’s demonstrated through their tempers or other negative behaviors. But they see no connection between a turbulent childhood and their problems as adults.
6) We become defeated. Regardless of how successfully we think we have buried our hurt, resentment will still work its way out through our behavior. A short temper, oversensitivity, shyness, a critical spirit—all of these can be evidence of unresolved rejection. We can move, find a new job, change friends or spouses, make New Year’s resolutions, memorize Scripture, get counseling, or undertake any number of spiritual exercises, but until we deal with the root of the problem, transformation will not be possible.
7) We become discouraged. This is often where we seek professional help or bail out of our present circumstances altogether. In this stage, one might end a marriage because the spouse will not change or because the couple cannot rekindle the love they once shared. Furthermore, an unforgiving spirit destroys respect, which is critical to the health of a relationship (1 Peter 3:2). A lack of respect can dissolve the loyalty and dedication that hold a marriage together during tough times. Then divorce becomes a real option to couples who pledged an unconditional lifetime of commitment. Such is the power and poison of an unforgiving spirit. In fact, at this stage, people may begin to depend on alcohol and prescription drugs to make it through the day. Tragically, some choose to escape by taking their own lives.
8) We discover the truth. Through someone’s help or by God’s grace, we discover the root of bitterness. The pieces finally fit together, and we are able to see the connection between the past and the present.
9) We take responsibility. In this stage, we decide to quit blaming others or expecting them to change. We open our hearts for God to have His way, regardless of how it might hurt.
10) We are delivered. For those who are willing to deal with an unforgiving spirit, the final outcome is deliverance. My friend, you can be free of that embarrassing, inappropriate, family-splitting behavior. You say, “But you don’t know what has happened to me. You don’t know what I have been through.” You are right. But I have known people in all kinds of circumstances who have been delivered and restored.
Do you see yourself in any of these stages? If you find that unforgiveness still holds you in its grip, I pray that you will do whatever it takes to find healing. Talk to a pastor, get counseling, or simply ask the Father to show you how to find freedom. Getting started on the healing process will be worth the effort.
For more information, please see “Steps to Forgiving Others.”
Adapted from “The Gift of Forgiveness” (1991).
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5114493/k.C8C6/Dealing_With_Hurts.htm
Bible Study "How To Handle Anger Pt. 1"
Sermon "Letting Go Of Anger Pt. 1: Are You Angry?"
Steps To Forgiving Others
As a young man, Jim wanted to be a medical doctor. Yet when the time came for him to go off to college, his father forced him to stay on the family farm and work. By age 23, Jim had taken all he could. He packed up his belongings, loaded up his car, and left. He drove away with a heart full of bitterness and resentment towards his father.
Everywhere Jim went, he had a difficult time getting along with others. He seemed unable to make long-lasting friendships and suffered from rejection and isolation. Consequently, he found himself moving from job to job; he was never able to settle down.
Finally, he met a woman who really cared for him, and after a brief engagement, they were married. Yet within three weeks of the wedding, Jim had an unexpected outburst that marked the beginning of over 40 years of hell on earth for his loyal wife. Right up to the last days of his life—when he was senile, nearly blind, and unable to care for himself—the poison of bitterness continued to eat away at Jim’s heart. And all because he failed to deal with the rejection and hurt he experienced as a teenager.
Developing an unforgiving spirit
From years of talking to people, I have noticed ten common phases related to hurtful situations and forgiveness. Not everyone will pass through each stage, but most people with an unforgiving spirit will be able to identify with several of these scenarios.
1) We get hurt. The seeds of unforgiveness are planted when we are wronged or hurt physically, emotionally, or verbally. We may feel pain, abandonment, embarrassment, hatred, or some other negative emotion. But I believe all hurt has its roots in rejection. Feeling rejected, then, is the first stage in developing an unforgiving spirit.
2) We become confused. Often our first response to hurt is bewilderment. In this stage, we may think, This is not really happening. We may even have a physical reaction, such as a deep feeling of emptiness in the pit of the stomach. This phase is usually short-lived.
3) We look for detours. Since all of us have a desire to avoid discomfort, we find ways of avoiding painful thoughts and memories. We take mental detours. This drive motivates some people to drink heavily or become addicted to drugs.
We also take physical detours, avoiding certain people, places, and things. Anything that reminds us of the hurt becomes off-limits. For instance, a minister’s daughter, who was full of bitterness towards her father, told me, “I would never marry a preacher.” To her, clergymen were to be avoided at all costs.
4) We dig a hole. After rearranging our thought patterns and lives to avoid contact with any reminder of our hurt, we attempt to forget that the painful experience ever occurred.
5) We deny it. This phase is characterized by our denial that we were ever hurt or that we are covering up anything. We may say, “Oh, I dealt with that” or “I forgave him long ago.” Breaking out of this stage can be tough. I have met scores of adults who are carrying around a load of bitterness—it’s demonstrated through their tempers or other negative behaviors. But they see no connection between a turbulent childhood and their problems as adults.
6) We become defeated. Regardless of how successfully we think we have buried our hurt, resentment will still work its way out through our behavior. A short temper, oversensitivity, shyness, a critical spirit—all of these can be evidence of unresolved rejection. We can move, find a new job, change friends or spouses, make New Year’s resolutions, memorize Scripture, get counseling, or undertake any number of spiritual exercises, but until we deal with the root of the problem, transformation will not be possible.
7) We become discouraged. This is often where we seek professional help or bail out of our present circumstances altogether. In this stage, one might end a marriage because the spouse will not change or because the couple cannot rekindle the love they once shared. Furthermore, an unforgiving spirit destroys respect, which is critical to the health of a relationship (1 Peter 3:2). A lack of respect can dissolve the loyalty and dedication that hold a marriage together during tough times. Then divorce becomes a real option to couples who pledged an unconditional lifetime of commitment. Such is the power and poison of an unforgiving spirit. In fact, at this stage, people may begin to depend on alcohol and prescription drugs to make it through the day. Tragically, some choose to escape by taking their own lives.
8) We discover the truth. Through someone’s help or by God’s grace, we discover the root of bitterness. The pieces finally fit together, and we are able to see the connection between the past and the present.
9) We take responsibility. In this stage, we decide to quit blaming others or expecting them to change. We open our hearts for God to have His way, regardless of how it might hurt.
10) We are delivered. For those who are willing to deal with an unforgiving spirit, the final outcome is deliverance. My friend, you can be free of that embarrassing, inappropriate, family-splitting behavior. You say, “But you don’t know what has happened to me. You don’t know what I have been through.” You are right. But I have known people in all kinds of circumstances who have been delivered and restored.
Do you see yourself in any of these stages? If you find that unforgiveness still holds you in its grip, I pray that you will do whatever it takes to find healing. Talk to a pastor, get counseling, or simply ask the Father to show you how to find freedom. Getting started on the healing process will be worth the effort.
For more information, please see “Steps to Forgiving Others.”
Adapted from “The Gift of Forgiveness” (1991).
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5114493/k.C8C6/Dealing_With_Hurts.htm
Bible Study "How To Handle Anger Pt. 1"
Sermon "Letting Go Of Anger Pt. 1: Are You Angry?"
Steps To Forgiving Others
SELF DESTRUCT IN THE OZARKS OFFICIAL AD
Self Destruct is hosting the first annual Self Destruct in the Ozarks festival. It's gonna be 3 days of music, ministry and tons of fun. October 23, 24 & 25th 2009. Check it out at www.teamselfdestruct.com/festival
10/08/2009
Biblical Instructions
A sermon series by my pastor Brother Bill Simmons about Biblical instructions to wives, husbands, children, parents, employers and employees, and a sermon about family from our youth pastor Brother Steven...
Instruction To Wives
Instruction To Husbands
Instruction To Children
Instruction To Parents
Instructions To Employees and Employers
Family Matters (Brother Steven)
Instruction To Wives
Instruction To Husbands
Instruction To Children
Instruction To Parents
Instructions To Employees and Employers
Family Matters (Brother Steven)
What? Me Worry?
Hollywood Connect E-Newsletter (10-08-09)
I’ve been spending a bit too much time in the dentist chair recently. Don’t get me wrong – I’ve got a kind and competent dentist, and together we’re working towards a million-dollar smile that would make any good leading actor’s ego swell dramatically. But lately it seems like I’ve gotten a little too familiar with staring up at the drab, acoustical ceiling tiles, my face stuffed with cotton, and the terror-inducing whine of dental instruments starting up somewhere behind me.
When you begin to recognize which tools are your friends and which ones are about to test your pain threshold, you know you’ve been sitting there way too long (and may have had one too many shots of novocaine).
A year or so ago, I went to a dentist whom I had not seen before, and as I sat there in his chair, supine, mouth agape, I listened to him calmly relay his assessment of each tooth to his assistant. “Overall condition of the gums are good,” he intoned. Pause. “Previous fillings on numbers two, fifteen, eighteen, thirty-one.” Pause. “The patient frets.”
What? I wanted to ask, but couldn’t because I had a periodontal probe and most of the dentist’s left hand in my mouth – no, seriously, if I had swallowed hard, he probably would have lost his wristwatch. The patient – meaning me, of course – frets? Well, yeah, maybe, but how did my dentist know? Isn’t that more appropriately within the field of study for a psychologist or counselor or someone like that?
It turns out that a dentist can tell when someone is the fretting type (and by that I mean a worrier, not a guitarist) by looking at your teeth. When you fret or worry, you tend to grit and grind your teeth, typically in your sleep, which over time can wear down the enamel on your teeth. And your dentist can tell. This grinding is also known as bruxism, which I know mostly because Google told me so.
It turns out that when we worry, it shows. It affects everything we do – from the quality of our art to our relationships, from our business decisions to how we sleep at night. If you haven’t already experienced this, I’m certain a good internet search will back me up on that one too.
In Psalm 37:8, we’re reminded not to fret because it will only lead to harm, and I’m pretty sure that the Psalmist was speaking of more than just damage to our teeth. With so many anxiety-inducing pressures surrounding us in the arts & entertainment world, however, his admonition may seem at times like an impossible task. Don’t fret? Are you kidding me, Mr. Psalmist? I’m in the entertainment industry, and I don’t think you understand what you’re asking for here… I have to prepare for that big audition or cover rent or find an even better manager or fire one of my production assistants or fix that relationship with my friend or pay for those ever-growing dentist bills.
Don’t fret. It’s a simple command in a complex world, a world filled with stress and tension, and you would be right in dismissing the possibility of fulfilling that command if there was no better place to put our worries. But we are assured that there is a better depository for those worries if we are humble enough to put them there:
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in
due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)
How odd that our first and best resort is who we turn to last and only when things are at their worst. It takes humility to admit we’re not able to deal completely with the anxieties this world hands us, but in reality, the more we try to carry these burdens on our own, the more harm we do and the more gnashing of teeth we have to endure. We simply were never created to carry these worries in the first place.
So whatever anxieties you are carrying right now – be they in your art, your business, your relationships, or any other area – toss them on God as His responsibility. But whatever you do: Don’t fret. He cares for you.
All my best,
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
http://www.hollywoodconnect.com/
I’ve been spending a bit too much time in the dentist chair recently. Don’t get me wrong – I’ve got a kind and competent dentist, and together we’re working towards a million-dollar smile that would make any good leading actor’s ego swell dramatically. But lately it seems like I’ve gotten a little too familiar with staring up at the drab, acoustical ceiling tiles, my face stuffed with cotton, and the terror-inducing whine of dental instruments starting up somewhere behind me.
When you begin to recognize which tools are your friends and which ones are about to test your pain threshold, you know you’ve been sitting there way too long (and may have had one too many shots of novocaine).
A year or so ago, I went to a dentist whom I had not seen before, and as I sat there in his chair, supine, mouth agape, I listened to him calmly relay his assessment of each tooth to his assistant. “Overall condition of the gums are good,” he intoned. Pause. “Previous fillings on numbers two, fifteen, eighteen, thirty-one.” Pause. “The patient frets.”
What? I wanted to ask, but couldn’t because I had a periodontal probe and most of the dentist’s left hand in my mouth – no, seriously, if I had swallowed hard, he probably would have lost his wristwatch. The patient – meaning me, of course – frets? Well, yeah, maybe, but how did my dentist know? Isn’t that more appropriately within the field of study for a psychologist or counselor or someone like that?
It turns out that a dentist can tell when someone is the fretting type (and by that I mean a worrier, not a guitarist) by looking at your teeth. When you fret or worry, you tend to grit and grind your teeth, typically in your sleep, which over time can wear down the enamel on your teeth. And your dentist can tell. This grinding is also known as bruxism, which I know mostly because Google told me so.
It turns out that when we worry, it shows. It affects everything we do – from the quality of our art to our relationships, from our business decisions to how we sleep at night. If you haven’t already experienced this, I’m certain a good internet search will back me up on that one too.
In Psalm 37:8, we’re reminded not to fret because it will only lead to harm, and I’m pretty sure that the Psalmist was speaking of more than just damage to our teeth. With so many anxiety-inducing pressures surrounding us in the arts & entertainment world, however, his admonition may seem at times like an impossible task. Don’t fret? Are you kidding me, Mr. Psalmist? I’m in the entertainment industry, and I don’t think you understand what you’re asking for here… I have to prepare for that big audition or cover rent or find an even better manager or fire one of my production assistants or fix that relationship with my friend or pay for those ever-growing dentist bills.
Don’t fret. It’s a simple command in a complex world, a world filled with stress and tension, and you would be right in dismissing the possibility of fulfilling that command if there was no better place to put our worries. But we are assured that there is a better depository for those worries if we are humble enough to put them there:
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in
due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)
How odd that our first and best resort is who we turn to last and only when things are at their worst. It takes humility to admit we’re not able to deal completely with the anxieties this world hands us, but in reality, the more we try to carry these burdens on our own, the more harm we do and the more gnashing of teeth we have to endure. We simply were never created to carry these worries in the first place.
So whatever anxieties you are carrying right now – be they in your art, your business, your relationships, or any other area – toss them on God as His responsibility. But whatever you do: Don’t fret. He cares for you.
All my best,
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
http://www.hollywoodconnect.com/
10/04/2009
Hold On
There is hope in the midst of trials and tribulations. There is a light in the darkness. There is love above all the mess. Hold on to it.
10/02/2009
Friend Request
You have a friend request.
Jesus Christ (Son of God)
wants to be your friend.
You may have friends in common.
Confirm?
"I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and the open
the door, I will come in... - Rev. 3:20
http://shop.kerusso.com/p-1449-friend-request.aspx
Jesus Christ (Son of God)
wants to be your friend.
You may have friends in common.
Confirm?
"I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and the open
the door, I will come in... - Rev. 3:20
http://shop.kerusso.com/p-1449-friend-request.aspx
Exploring The Mystery
There’s a thought that’s been nagging at me for some time now, and that is this: It is important to remind ourselves that there is an aspect of being an artist that goes beyond simply giving answers to people. The artistic voice is a prophetic one, or at least it was meant to be, in that its purpose is to communicate Truth and Beauty, even in – and maybe especially in – circumstances that are adverse or antagonistic to them.
A fallacy that artists and prophets can far too easily buy into is that, because we are the communicators of Truth and Beauty in our culture, we are also the authority on Truth and Beauty. That is far from the case, and it’s a dangerous mistake, because it leads to the incorrect assumption that, contained in our brains, so wonderful and so finite, are all the answers the world needs.
This is a fatal error for an artist because it results in the artist ceasing to recognize that there is much more out there than he or she already knows, which leads to a gradual failure to explore beyond the answers already accumulated, which ultimately leads to a loss of wonder.
It is wonder, this sense that there is a world bigger than we know, that makes artistry worthwhile as a continuous pursuit. It takes humility to admit that there are things we don’t yet understand. But those who believe they already have all the answers and who approach their art from that standpoint end up missing so much. They miss all the wonder and awe that is essential to their craft. The calling of creative artists is to explore the mystery and to communicate it, unencumbered by over-simplified answers, to a world that has lost its wonder.
The same is true of us as believers as we explore the Source of that mystery. We must not get so focused on the aspects of God we do understand that we fail to worship the aspects we don’t. I must allow all of God to live inside of me – both the parts that I understand as well as the parts that remain a mystery. All of these aspects are Truth and Beauty, whether I understand them or not.
It is either all or none. It is either an invitation to the God of both revelation and mystery to make His home in me, His handiwork, or it is to rely on my own limited understanding and create a god of my own choosing, a god who is my handiwork. Since the very essence of God will not – cannot – be limited by my finite understanding, the latter is really not an option worth considering.
The depth of our faith and artistry is determined by how we relate and respond to Truth and Beauty – both that which is known and that which is unknown. So take a moment to thank God for mystery – that which you do not yet understand – and let’s go exploring.
All my best,
Shun Lee
Actor & Writer
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
A fallacy that artists and prophets can far too easily buy into is that, because we are the communicators of Truth and Beauty in our culture, we are also the authority on Truth and Beauty. That is far from the case, and it’s a dangerous mistake, because it leads to the incorrect assumption that, contained in our brains, so wonderful and so finite, are all the answers the world needs.
This is a fatal error for an artist because it results in the artist ceasing to recognize that there is much more out there than he or she already knows, which leads to a gradual failure to explore beyond the answers already accumulated, which ultimately leads to a loss of wonder.
It is wonder, this sense that there is a world bigger than we know, that makes artistry worthwhile as a continuous pursuit. It takes humility to admit that there are things we don’t yet understand. But those who believe they already have all the answers and who approach their art from that standpoint end up missing so much. They miss all the wonder and awe that is essential to their craft. The calling of creative artists is to explore the mystery and to communicate it, unencumbered by over-simplified answers, to a world that has lost its wonder.
The same is true of us as believers as we explore the Source of that mystery. We must not get so focused on the aspects of God we do understand that we fail to worship the aspects we don’t. I must allow all of God to live inside of me – both the parts that I understand as well as the parts that remain a mystery. All of these aspects are Truth and Beauty, whether I understand them or not.
It is either all or none. It is either an invitation to the God of both revelation and mystery to make His home in me, His handiwork, or it is to rely on my own limited understanding and create a god of my own choosing, a god who is my handiwork. Since the very essence of God will not – cannot – be limited by my finite understanding, the latter is really not an option worth considering.
The depth of our faith and artistry is determined by how we relate and respond to Truth and Beauty – both that which is known and that which is unknown. So take a moment to thank God for mystery – that which you do not yet understand – and let’s go exploring.
All my best,
Shun Lee
Actor & Writer
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
9/28/2009
Crowded House "Don't Dream It's Over"
There is freedom within, there is freedom without
Try to catch the deluge in a paper cup
There's a battle ahead, many battles are lost
But you'll never see the end of the road
While you're travelling with me
Hey now, hey now
Don't dream its over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they wont win
Now I'm towing my car, there's a hole in the roof
My possessions are causing me suspicion but theres no proof
In the paper today tales of war and of waste
But you turn right over to the t.v. page
Hey now, hey now
Don't dream its over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
We know they wont win
Now I'm walking again to the beat of a drum
And I'm counting the steps to the door of your heart
Only shadows ahead barely clearing the roof
Get to know the feeling of liberation and relief
Hey now, hey now
Don't dream its over
Hey now, hey now
When the world comes in
They come, they come
To build a wall between us
Don't ever let them win
9/26/2009
The Canvas Logo
The Canvas logo can be used to share the Gospel! Each color has a special meaning:
#1 (Purple): God's Glory
First, we have to know who God is. The Bible, God's word, shows us his character: He is the creator of the world, He knows all, He is perfect, He is good, He is pure, He is love, but He is also just! He will judge every wrong. He is the true God!...
#2 (Black): Our Sin
If you think you don't sin. Then you're lying...and that's a sin! We have all sinned at some point in our life. The punishment for sin is separation from God for eternity! That's right, hell. No good work can cover the wrongs. The price is too high...
#3 (Red): Blood Of Jesus
When someone does something wrong, justice is required. God came to the earth as Jesus. Perfect, He took all of our sins and paid the price on the cross. He died and rose again, like The Bible said would happen. How can we accept this gift?...
#4 (White): Forgiven
In order to be forgiven we have to humble ourselves and admit we did wrong. Admit you are a sinner and accept what He did on the cross for you. Believe in Him and let Him wash you clean. Praise God for forgiveness! It doesn't stop there...
#5 (Blue): Faith
Where is your faith? Is it in the world, or in God? What the world promises only lets us down. Everything God promises we can hope in! As you read the Bible, believe and act on His promises. Live-out your faith in everyday life asking God what to do!
#6 (Green): New Life
We have a fresh start and a relationship with God. We were once dead in our sins, but now we are alive in Christ Jesus, "born again." Sin no longer has power over our lives. He will sanctify us everyday making us more like Him. Rest in His grace...
#7 (Yellow): Heaven
Just like with our homes, God will only let the ones He knows personally into His "home." We are only able to have a relationship with Him because we are forgiven. Share this great news with others and bring them to Heaven with you!
9/24/2009
9/21/2009
Carman - Witch's Invitation
One peaceful afternoon I picked up from my mailbox the strangest looking letter I'd ever seen, a chilling little envelope bordered with flying bats, and eerie serpents whose eyes were tinted green. The letter was addressed to me so as I opened it I froze. What I read turned my complexion three shades of blue. It said, 'My name is Isaac Horowitz. I'm a male witch, a warlock and I feel I need to spend some time with you.'
Now as a Christian from a little church with God's call on my life, a man of faith and power with a challenge to grow I did what any saint would do in my situation. I tore it up said, 'Lord, no way I'm gonna go.' Then gently and methodically the Holy Spirit spoke and reminded me we're God's voice to our nation. It's the church's responsibility to witness, so reluctantly I accepted this witch's invitation.
He had the house you'd expect, the old English cottage, a 'Nightmare on Elm Street' special right to the core, the overgrown ivy, the gate that creaked when opened, somehow you'd expect Freddy to answer this door. The doorbell rang, a hollow gong, the knob twisted then opened, and Isaac stood before me with a grin. His jet black hair and well trimmed beard flowed with his black silk clothes. My skin crawled as he said, 'Please come on in.'
His house was filled with every occultic symbol you could fathom; Hanging pentagrams and horoscope signs, a Ouija board and dungeons and dragons game set on the table, a crystal ball with an incandescent shine. Then graciously he handed me some steaming herbal tea. Its presence caused my memory to jog...I thought of every horror flick I'd seen when I was a kid and thought 'man if you drink this stuff next day you'll be a frog.'
Then he led me to a high backed chair as he meticulously began to unfold his scenario with evil patience. I was given a giant leather bound book jammed with newspaper clippings, thus the reason for this witch's invitation. With eagerness he pointed to each article with pride. He said, 'I healed this woman through a Babylonian chant; You see this man, I cured him while performing druid worship; I was paid to curse this man with AIDS by his aunt.'
On and on, page after page, delightfully he flaunted each incident for an hour without a breath. He said, 'Do you realize through my understanding of the dark regions that I can make you rich or even curse someone to death?' I sat literally intimidated by his immensity in demon power while his face shone with a satanic arrogant bliss. Then placing his hands on the arms of my chair and leaning into my face he said, 'What can your God do to compete with this?'
I knew then how Moses felt, when his rod turned to a serpent and the three Egyptian magicians did the same. It's as if you're sitting there in that stunned moment while your faith gets violated and all you feel is weak, powerless and lame. I desperately and deeply prayed saying, 'Jesus give me wisdom - I don't want to put you through some foolish test. Then a shaft of light shot through my soul igniting my eyes with fire. God stood me up and I threw the book back in his chest.
I said 'Isaac, I'll not compare God's miracles versus Satan's - the issue's not God's kingdom and Satan's lair. The real comparison is the condition of your soul and the condition of mine, and you puppet of the devil, that I will compare. I said, My friend, one day they're coming for you - the soft associates in your incantations - the friendly demons you think you now control. The time will come when you'll be lying in bed wheezing like a dying animal and those spirits lay claim to the rights they own to your soul.'
'Then the room will grow dark, and the most hideous evil faces you ever seen will come flaming out of the floor with a yell! The vile informants that promised reincarnation will claw your spirit and victoriously drag your soul to hell!'
Then I grabbed the book and said, 'In that moment which mantra, which incantation you gonna chant to tell them to leave you alone? I said, My friend, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt what I would say...'I'm bought with the blood of Jesus! Let me go!' '
I said, 'Isaac, when you tossed that book in my lap, you gloated with a sinister victory. You rejoiced when you saw your name in black and white. Now I rejoice, but not that your counsel of demons are subject to Jesus, but that my name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life!' Then Isaac jumped up from his chair and screamed, 'You must leave now!' I said, 'I will, but one last obligation - Next time think twice before you rumble with a man of God!!! And by the way thanks for your.. uhh... witch's invitation.
9/19/2009
The Dark Night Of The Soul
"You have to pass through a dark night of the soul. Everyone does, including you. A time comes when what you have always believed is true melts away underneath you. When you cast in doubt even the most obvious, the most simple. When it seems that dark night is all around, and you are all alone. Take heart, this journey through abyss is the final barrier before your emergence into the heavenly light of a new synthesis of your being. God is waiting for you on the other side."
I thought this came only once in a person's life, but I think it comes through every major period of tribulation in a person's life. Just when I thought I've seen it all, I find myself getting put through it over and over again. Why has my life always been so full of such extreme challenges and tribulations? Oddly enough, I think there is something special about that. I used to think it was a curse, but now I see it as a blessing in disguise. What the devil wants to use in order to hurt me, God takes it and turns it into a blessing. Wow, so amazing really. It still doesn't change the fact that it's very scary and painful to go through. Why would anyone want to go through a dark tunnel not knowing what's going to happen? But, the result is a major blessing. You will get through it and you will come out on top. So, here I go again through the valley of troubles so that I will again claim victory on that mountain-top. Only God working through me can enable me to be able to say all that.
I thought this came only once in a person's life, but I think it comes through every major period of tribulation in a person's life. Just when I thought I've seen it all, I find myself getting put through it over and over again. Why has my life always been so full of such extreme challenges and tribulations? Oddly enough, I think there is something special about that. I used to think it was a curse, but now I see it as a blessing in disguise. What the devil wants to use in order to hurt me, God takes it and turns it into a blessing. Wow, so amazing really. It still doesn't change the fact that it's very scary and painful to go through. Why would anyone want to go through a dark tunnel not knowing what's going to happen? But, the result is a major blessing. You will get through it and you will come out on top. So, here I go again through the valley of troubles so that I will again claim victory on that mountain-top. Only God working through me can enable me to be able to say all that.
9/16/2009
Blessed Union Of Souls - I Believe
Walk blindly to the light and reach out for his hand
Don't ask any questions and don't try to understand
Open up your mind and then open up your heart
And you will see that you and me aren't very far apart
'Cause I believe that love is the answer
I believe that love will find the way
Violence is spread worldwide and there are families on the street
And we sell drugs to children now oh why can't we just see
That all we do is eliminate our future with the things we do today
Money is our incentive now so that makes it okay
But I believe that love is the answer
I believe that love will find the way
I believe that love is the answer
I believe that love will find the way
I've been seeing Lisa now for a little over a year
She said she's never been so happy but Lisa lives in fear
That one day daddy's gonna find out she's in love
With a nigger from the streets
Oh how he would lose it then but she's still here with me
'Cause she believes that love will see it through
And one day he'll understand
And he'll see me as a person not just a black man
'Cause I believe that love is the answer
I believe that love will find the way
I believe I believe I believe I believe that love is the answer
I believe that love will find the way
Love will find the way
Love will find the way
Love will find the way
Please love find the way
Please love find the way
9/11/2009
9/10/2009
Beware of false teachers...
Beware: There are so many false teachers in this world to be cautious of. "The blind followers of the blind" (Matthew 15:14). Those who lack the knowledge and/or strength of the Word of God are trapped by their deception. The Bible holds the real truth. The worse of the false teachers are those that claim to be Christian, but are hurting others with their deception and lies, leading them to dangerous and detrimental places. They twist the Word of God to fit their own agenda and it's an outright lie. Again I say, "Beware."
"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits." (Matthew 7:15,16)
"And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." (Matthew 15:9)
"For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves . Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears." (Acts 20:29-31)
"Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8)
"But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed." (2 Peter 2:1-3)
"This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him—speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction. I am warning you ahead of time, dear friends. Be on guard so that you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:15-18)
"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." (2 Timothy 2:3-4)
"Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned." (Titus 3:10-11)
I warn you in love. I pray for a hedge of God's divine protection around, and that you will see the truth and that the truth will set you free. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits." (Matthew 7:15,16)
"And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." (Matthew 15:9)
"For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves . Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears." (Acts 20:29-31)
"Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8)
"But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed." (2 Peter 2:1-3)
"This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him—speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction. I am warning you ahead of time, dear friends. Be on guard so that you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:15-18)
"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." (2 Timothy 2:3-4)
"Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned." (Titus 3:10-11)
I warn you in love. I pray for a hedge of God's divine protection around, and that you will see the truth and that the truth will set you free. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
9/06/2009
Before The Throne Of God Above
Shane And Shane
Before The Throne Of God Above lyrics
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong, a perfect plea:
A great High Priest, whose name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on his hands,
My name is written on his heart;
I know that while in heaven he stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart
No tongue can bid me thence depart.
When Satan tempts me to despair,
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look, and see him there
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because a sinless Savior died,
My sinful soul is counted free;
For God, the Just, is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
To look on Him and pardon me
Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Praise the One,
Risen Son of God!
Behold him there, the risen Lamb
My perfect, spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I am,
The King of glory and of grace!
One in himself, I cannot die
My soul is purchased by his blood
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ, my Savior and my God
With Christ, my Savior and my God
9/01/2009
Undignified
Copyright 2009 JesusBranded
I apologize for this being a long one- it's kind of a two-part thought.
During my quiet time today, as I was soaking in some music, I decided to randomly flip my bible open just to humor what would come up. I ended up at 2 Samuel 6, and scanning through I realized this is the famous passage where David dances like there's no tomorrow as the Ark returns to Jerusalem; "...Michal, Saul's daughter, came out to greet him: 'How wonderfully the king has distinguished himself today- exposing himself to the eyes of the servants' maids like some burlesque street dancer!' David replied to Michal, 'In God's presence I'll dance all I want!.. Oh yes, I'll dance to God's glory- more recklessly even than this. And as far as I'm concerned... I'll gladly look like a fool...'"(2 Samuel 6:20-22 The Message) It immediately reminded me of a youth event I attended a couple of months ago, when (long story short) during worship almost none of the kids even flinched or moved, made even more so noticeable by this one random grown-up (I don't know if he was a parent or just a volunteer- my guess from what I observed was that he was a custodian of the church being rented for the event) on the side who was very visibly moved and poured himself out as he encountered God's presence. I was shook just seeing him, and I immediately jotted down this thought so that I will never forget that moment: "It's usually those who have nothing to boast of, who have nothing to lose, nothing to prove, no image to uphold, no luxuries to rest in, and nobody left to please that are the ones who approach God with such a disarming abandon that stirs the nations around them, even in their unbelief." I decided then and there that desperation is a powerful force in pursuing God- as long as I have other stupid things to boast of, I will never find satisfaction in Him (Does that mean I literally lose everything? Another discussion for another day, but my gist of it: you don't necessarily lose things, they just start mattering less than they used to. For now don't let this possible complexity trip you up).
Those thoughts brought about this much more long-winded second part. In imagining David's solo dance party, I began thinking of the current definitions, roles, and perceptions of dance (and all of the arts, for that matter) within the church today- and how there seems to be a substandard stigma attached to it by virtue of being WITHIN the church (or FOR God, whichever wording you prefer). Past (and ongoing) conversations about passion versus training, zeal versus temperance, and rawness versus control came to mind, and I guess it started to sort of make sense why the arts within Christianity seem "substandard" (I said seem) to people outside the church- it's because 1. when God shows up, all bets are off, and usually when His Presence overflows, so does your zeal and you just gotta go with it; and 2. when this occurs, chances are the majority of the believers gathered are NOT masterly trained in dance, painting, singing, or whatever else creative outlet there is out there, so they just instinctively run with it. Which leads me personally to a crucial point in my walk as an artist:The question now isn't to be asked of those who faithfully let themselves be overwhelmed by God's presence regardless of training or perception- in fact, they're the ones who hit the mark way closer than I do; the suspect now is me: am I more concerned with saving face rather than possibly pouring out what I've been given back for purposes concerning Jesus? I can't speak too generally, but from what I've seen and how I myself have lived, I know that there are Christians who happen to be trained artists/designers/singers/dancers who would rather pour out their talents and abilities out there in the "real world", where the scores and the ego strokes that are tallied are the ones that "count" in this world. (Geez, that's a long conversation.) I don't say that condemingly- it only seems to make sense: what this world stands for does not include the eternal, and so the things that may matter to those who love God will most likely not resonate with the rest of the world, who happen to be the ones holding the "scorecards". As a result though, I've mistakenly looked to other areas where street cred matters. But isn't this pretense of dignity that I'm holding onto that maybe is holding me back from pouring back into the church? (I understand that there are high levels out there to be achieved by training outside the church, that's another conversation.) Before this goes any further than it should, I guess the "unpackaging" part for me is to examine where my preference for dignity overrides His fullness over me, because where that exists, I'm clearly missing out on more of Him.
So what does that have to do with squiggly lines of androgynous naked human forms? Taking my cue from David himself, who "will become even more undignified" than his dance solo, I decided to give tribute to dance, which often gets some real flak within the church. I drew 20 gestural figures of my choreographer friend dancing, and put them together in a messy, unrefined, raw manner to mimic my fond memory of that random guy who was completely sold on losing himself in God's presence. It's a great reminder that as you realize that a lot of the things you once cared about are really amazingly inconsequential in light of Him, dignity is an insignificant cost in exchange for the freedom to just be a boy running after his God.
http://www.jesusbranded.com/undignified
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)