Ephesians 1:3-14

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

"Grace In Guilt"

From "Grace In Guilt":

...
God's Transcendent Mercy
In Psalm 32, David again describes his "groaning all day long" because God's hand was "heavy" upon him "day and night" and his "strength was dried up as by the heat of summer" (Ps 32:3-4). But, he says, "I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,' and you forgave the iniquity of my sin" (Ps 32:5). Thus he could rejoice in God's mercy and proclaim, "Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered" (Ps 32:1).

Instead of wallowing in guilt, I can rise again when I come clean with God about what He already knows: my sinful words. I must dwell on His holy Word that speaks hope into my life, reorienting me to the truth about myself and God. Scripture says that in the midst of our guilt, "God shows his love for us"; we can, indeed must, approach God from that state, for "while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom 5:8).

Guilt forces us to face our reality, that we are "dead in trespasses and sins" (Eph 2:1). But God's rich mercy out of His great love transcends our guilt and gives us true freedom from anguish. He pulls me up from my immobile, lifeless state, stuck in the memory of my guilt-ridden speech, raising me to a place of life and movement (Eph 2:4-7). God takes my piercing words that draw a crimson flow and makes them white as snow (Isa 1:18). That is the beauty and mystery of forgiveness.

How can this be? Only through Christ, who unlike us bore no guilt in His body (John 18:38; 19:4, 6). And on the basis of Christ's work I can call to God, "Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O LORD!" (Psalm 25:7). In other words, see me not in my sin, but see me in Your love, in Your mercy, in Christ.

God's transcendent, overflowing mercy is the basis for me to deal with guilt. I can stand in Christ's eternal forgiveness and walk ahead free from guilt's weight. For Jesus states emphatically that "if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).

That doesn't erase my careless words or the hurt they caused. And surely Christ's mercy doesn't diminish the seriousness of my sin. Rather, my sin, a horrific affront to the purity and holiness of God, underscores the preciousness of the blood Jesus spilled for the sins of the world. His death and resurrection offer reconciliation and call me to change. And as the Spirit's work of grace makes me more like Christ, I will learn to control my tongue and sin less, meaning fewer and fewer reasons for added guilt.

I don't need to rehash my past verbal collisions if I've confessed them and pursued reconciliation, because Christ's mercy covers my failures. Instead, I must accept God's forgiveness and refuse to live defeated because Christ extends both eternal freedom for the future and enabling grace for today.

To take hold of this freedom, I pray, asking God to show me what is true today, what can and can't be done, and how real His forgiveness is. And I read and meditate on God's Word, allowing those words of life to renew my soul in Christ's transcendent mercy. I'll sometimes fail, letting loose my tongue and hurting others, but as Scripture says, "the righteous falls seven times and rises again" (Prov 24:16).

As a Christian, I don't sit paralyzed by guilt. I walk by the grace of God.

Read more: "Grace In Guilt".

Psalm 118 "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!..."

Psalm 118:

His Steadfast Love Endures Forever


118:1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever!


2 Let Israel say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”
3 Let the house of Aaron say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”
4 Let those who fear the Lord say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”


5 Out of my distress I called on the Lord;
the Lord answered me and set me free.
6 The Lord is on my side; I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
7 The Lord is on my side as my helper;
I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.


8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in man.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes.


10 All nations surrounded me;
in the name of the Lord I cut them off!
11 They surrounded me, surrounded me on every side;
in the name of the Lord I cut them off!
12 They surrounded me like bees;
they went out like a fire among thorns;
in the name of the Lord I cut them off!
13 I was pushed hard, so that I was falling,
but the Lord helped me.


14 The Lord is my strength and my song;
he has become my salvation.
15 Glad songs of salvation
are in the tents of the righteous:
“The right hand of the Lord does valiantly,
16 the right hand of the Lord exalts,
the right hand of the Lord does valiantly!”


17 I shall not die, but I shall live,
and recount the deeds of the Lord.
18 The Lord has disciplined me severely,
but he has not given me over to death.


19 Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them
and give thanks to the Lord.
20 This is the gate of the Lord;
the righteous shall enter through it.
21 I thank you that you have answered me
and have become my salvation.
22 The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
23 This is the Lord's doing;
it is marvelous in our eyes.
24 This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.


25 Save us, we pray, O Lord!
O Lord, we pray, give us success!


26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!
We bless you from the house of the Lord.
27 The Lord is God,
and he has made his light to shine upon us.
Bind the festal sacrifice with cords,
up to the horns of the altar!


28 You are my God, and I will give thanks to you;
you are my God; I will extol you.
29 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever!

Amen!

AMAZING VIDEO!!!: "An ordinary man walks his ordinary neighborhood, but something epic is happening in his heart... a willingness to lovingly evangelize."

This is my heart's cry.

THANK God for Friends and Family!! :)

I've got to give it to God. He did a very nice, amazing thing when He created the ability to have family and friends!!! :)

I've enjoyed having long conversations with my sister Anna.

I've been hanging out with friends in Glaske almost every day this week. We've had some AMAZING Electronics 2 study parties! We do homework and then talk for about the same amount of time afterward (~~1.5 hours or so).

Also, You know what I REALLY LIKE hearing? Someone espousing the benefits of something I really like. For example, I heard Stephen Camp (or was it Benaiah Henry?) telling someone about the benefits of Delicious and it was just cool to hear someone say some of the things I would say.

Friends are amazing!! God has blessed me SO MUCH MORE than I deserve.

Praise God!

P.S. Today I'm going to Josh Bruning's apartment to work with Kim and Benaiah on our Software System project. We're beginning to program Mille Bornes in Java. :)

All Because of Jesus! :)

"What You Watch"

Good thoughts here (thanks to Anna for helping me find this). From: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0002002.cfm

...
Why Does It Matter?

For the sake of discussion, let's choose an entertainment type and talk it through. Let's assume you're wrestling over whether or not to watch a popular PG-13 movie with a friend. This particular movie contains a lot of sexual content, language and innuendo (think He’s Just Not that Into You). So you think to yourself, I know where I stand on morality and a film isn't going to change any of that. Well, is that true?

I believe strongly in the concept of incremental influence over time. Rarely does a single media exposure lead a person to do something completely off the wall. More often, the negative messages need a cumulative effect to take hold. I recently read about a community with a much higher than normal cancer rate. Adults in this town tell stories about how, as children, they would often wade through a certain factory's chemical-waste ponds (the various colors were alluring). The point here is that every one of these adults regrets swimming in those chemical dumps.

Although even one dip most likely had some negative effect, it was really the repeated chemical baths, week after week, month after month, year after year, that resulted in a populace battling with an incurable illness.

Likewise, I believe certain entertainment ponds today look like great places to swim. But despite the "fun" they offer, they're simply not worth taking the plunge — not even once. Those who ignore the danger and jump in repeatedly face an even greater risk — a spiritual risk.

A lot has been made of the concept "garbage in equals garbage out." Occasionally we hear warnings about desensitization. Sometimes even the culture worries about media influence (cigarette advertising, for instance). Although these concerns are valid, I think it's more than that. I believe that during repeated exposure to problematic media, a follower of Christ could find his or her fervor for God dwindling.

I have an e-mail from a young adult who explained how this happened in his life, dampening his spiritual excitement and stunting his spiritual growth. His lack of passion wasn't due to dabbling in drugs. It wasn't because of sexual compromises. It wasn't rebellion. But for him, it was his poor entertainment decisions. Sadly, this is the story for many Christians.

Fortunately, he made significant changes, including getting rid of several hundred dollars worth of CDs. And because he was challenged in this area by the Plugged In staff, he concluded his correspondence with, "And I would like to say thanks for helping to start a fire for God in my life."

Let me ask you: Is there a fire for God inside of you? If not, could it be somehow related — even in just a minor way — to the media you consume? And are you willing, like this young man, to make the changes necessary to begin growing again?

Where's The Line?

Although I realize there are still some factors like age appropriateness, Christian maturity, personal weaknesses and "gray areas," I like to think that the lion's share of media choices can be made "Christianly" if we would simply ask the question popularized a decade ago by the WWJD? (What would Jesus do?) bracelets. Although the fad is now passé, the principle behind these bracelets will never fade. So I suggest we all ask ourselves an expanded version of this question, something like this: If Jesus were walking the planet today with His 12 disciples, how would He respond if Peter, John or Matthew came up and asked, "Can we go see or listen to [fill in the blank here]?"

I don't believe our Lord is anti-entertainment. In fact, I believe there are films, television programs, CDs, video games, and so on, that He would be happy to enjoy. But I would also guess that he wouldn't approve of many of the music and movies available to us today.

None of us know what Jesus would do or say in every situation, but if we desire to think biblically about media choices, it's our job to be wise about what we watch and listen to.

...

Read more: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0002002.cfm.

Facebook Faceoff

Thanks to Anna for bookmarking this so that I would see it. It's a good reminder to be careful how you spend your time and to strive to prioritize well.

From: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0002003.cfm

...
I sit down to finish my paper for class. But instead of opening Word, I open up Firefox, type in the Web address, and check Facebook. Then refresh the page. Then open Word. Then switch back to Gmail. Honestly, my technology can be exhausting.

The signs are everywhere. And I'm growing utterly disgusted with myself. What is wrong with me?

It's not my intention to write a 1,200-word article encouraging others to give up Facebook, social networking, or the Internet. I plan to continue updating my status with random trivialities such as "Tim is attempting to write ... Tim just ate bread with mold ... Tim is heading to the basketball game" and the like. I'm still going to post notes, write on walls, and chat with friends.

But if all of this continues at the expense of getting to know God better, I want to throw it all out. All of it. Drastic, yes, but I've got to be willing to do whatever it takes.
...

Read more: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0002003.cfm

SONG: I Choose JESUS

"You won't relent until you have it all, My heart is Yours! Come be the fire inside of me, Come be the flame upon my heart!"

Amen.

Your fundraising ideas needed: How would you raise a couple hundred for a good cause?

Dear Reader,

I would like your ideas.

If there was a really good cause that you would like to raise money for on a college campus like LeTourneau University, what would you do?

Ideas so far:

• Bake sale (cook needed)
  
• Cake walk (can get cakes from Wal-Mart)
• Musical chairs (donations to enter, prizes)
• Taking advantage of the LETU floor rivalry in some sort mini Jar Wars
• Sponsored run
• Resell Hive food (drinks, chips etc, would need to make sure this is ok)
• Do something to get the Longview News Journal and the YellowJacket to write a story about this excellent cause.
• Car wash.
• [Your ideas here]
  
• ...
  

Your input requested!!! Thanks!

Psalm 116 -- I Love the Lord

Psalm 116 (ESV):

I Love the Lord

116:1 I love the Lord, because he has heard
my voice and my pleas for mercy.
2 Because he inclined his ear to me,
therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
3 The snares of death encompassed me;
the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me;
I suffered distress and anguish.
4 Then I called on the name of the Lord:
“O Lord, I pray, deliver my soul!”

5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous;
our God is merciful.
6 The Lord preserves the simple;
when I was brought low, he saved me.
7 Return, O my soul, to your rest;
for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.

8 For you have delivered my soul from death,
my eyes from tears,
my feet from stumbling;
9 I will walk before the Lord
in the land of the living.

10 I believed, even when [1] I spoke,
“I am greatly afflicted”;
11 I said in my alarm,
“All mankind are liars.”

12 What shall I render to the Lord
for all his benefits to me?
13 I will lift up the cup of salvation
and call on the name of the Lord,
14 I will pay my vows to the Lord
in the presence of all his people.

15 Precious in the sight of the Lord
is the death of his saints.
16 O Lord, I am your servant;
I am your servant, the son of your maidservant.
You have loosed my bonds.
17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving
and call on the name of the Lord.
18 I will pay my vows to the Lord
in the presence of all his people,
19 in the courts of the house of the Lord,
in your midst, O Jerusalem.
Praise the Lord!

Amen.

"Immature Leadership"

From: http://www.boundless.org/2005/answers/a0001999.cfm (emphasis added)

...

As I wrote recently, God is a Person with whom we experience life through His Spirit; He is not a set of facts that we store away for use in a Bible trivia game some day. If, for instance, you wanted to lead your girlfriend in loving some relative, you wouldn't do it by merely memorizing more information than your girlfriend does about that relative; you'd actually spend time with that relative, nurturing a love relationship.

It's the same with God. You lead in loving Him by turning your heart toward Him throughout the day, whether in prayer, reading or studying your Bible, or walking to class or eating a pizza. He is with you and ready to fellowship with you every moment. Talk to Him. Ask Him questions. Listen for His answers. Just as you would any friend you wanted to know better.

Third, at least one component of growing in love for God is discipleship. Remember, discipleship isn't a race to see who can learn more Bible facts the quickest, or who attends church the most. Discipleship is a training to run the race of life and love to which He has called us, to know Him for His glory and our good.

...
Is what you desire worth 30 minutes of your day? Then do this: Start every day reading a chapter from Proverbs (matching the chapter with the day of the month if you'd like); or read a Psalm; or read at least a chapter out of the book of John. Ask God to illuminate by His Spirit what you're reading. Spend time reflecting on what you read. Pray about specific things you know the day holds for you and give the day to God, and keep the conversation going with Him throughout the day. Get in the habit of doing this every day and you'll be amazed at how differently life begins to look.
...
Once He captures your heart you'll have no worries about being able to lead anyone. As you follow Him, others will follow you.
...

Read more: http://www.boundless.org/2005/answers/a0001999.cfm.

"Schooled at Home" by Rachel Starr Thomson

From: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0001998.cfm

...
Many homeschool parents like to use the greenhouse analogy. A plant that is tenderly nurtured in a greenhouse, protected from predators and the elements, can later be transplanted to live a healthy, thriving life. One that is always outside may simply be eaten, or stunted and destroyed by wind, sun and snow it's not ready to encounter.
I like to say that a puppy thrown to the wolves will either be eaten or learn to be a wolf. A fully grown dog stands a fighting chance.
Our home was sheltered. I remember realizing at a very young age that many of my friends were scarred and jaded by their experiences at school — and I'm talking about children under the age of 10! They were already cynical, already hurt, already worldly-wise.
...

Read more: http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0001998.cfm.


Thanks to my mom for highlighting this article in her new blog: Ponderings as I Wife, Mother, & Grandmother...: A puppy thrown to the wolves will either be eaten or learn to be a wolf....:

Davis Family Priceless Plasectomy and $39 Lesson Learned: Avoid Credit Cards!!!

Inspired by the cover of Dave Ramsey's book, "Priceless", with our 15-month old son assisting.

I just found out today that I have been privileged to learn a $39.00 lesson.

When I had to get the alternator replaced a few weeks back I ended up using my Citi credit card (which I got in case of travel emergencies) to pay the $358.15 bill since I didn't have that much in an individual checking account (I had money split between two different accounts).

Well, I went to pay the credit card bill online and couldn't remember my password and was thus locked out of my account. I called Citi and finally they helped me remember my password and allowed me to pay online by giving them the info on a check of mine (kindly informing me that they were not charging me the $12-$15 fee that is normally charged for phone payments).


Today I checked my account see that I was charged a $39 "FEE FOR RETURNED CHECK" by Citi recently because somehow the routing numbers that I read on my check to them over the phone must have been incorrect. (I was paying for the second purchase I've ever used a credit card for: getting an alternator replaced)

Future plans:

• Try to always save about $500 in a single checking account in case it is needed for things like car repairs so I don't need to resort to using the credit card (which I have for emergencies).
• Call and Ask Dad for his credit card info if I need to pay a large car repair bill for one of his cars.
• AVOID CREDIT CARDS!
  

Update: I just called Citi and this time I talked to a very helpful representative who said he'll remove the $39 fee because the other representative must have typed it in wrong. It's nice to talk to helpful people. :)

"House Passes Volunteerism Bill Critics Call Pricey, Forced Service" - FOXNews.com

From: "House Passes Volunteerism Bill Critics Call Pricey, Forced Service" - FOXNews.com

But the bill's opponents -- and there are only a few in Congress -- say it could cram ideology down the throats of young "volunteers," many of whom could be forced into service since the bill creates a "Congressional Commission on Civic Service."

The bipartisan commission will be tasked with exploring a number of topics, including "whether a workable, fair and reasonable mandatory service requirement for all able young people could be developed and how such a requirement could be implemented in a manner that would strengthen the social fabric of the nation."

"We contribute our time and money under no government coercion on a scale the rest of the world doesn't emulate and probably can't imagine," said Luke Sheahan, contributing editor for the Family Security Foundation. "The idea that government should order its people to perform acts of charity is contrary to the idea of charity and it removes the responsibility for charity from the people to the government, destroying private initiative."

House committee staff insist the GIVE Act will not change the voluntary nature of service.

From http://exposingliberallies.blogspot.com/2009/03/obama-youth.html

‘The House passed a bill yesterday which includes disturbing language indicating young people will be forced to undertake mandatory national service programs as fears about President Barack Obama’s promised “civilian national security force” intensify.

The Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act, known as the GIVE Act, was passed yesterday by a 321-105 margin and now goes to the Senate.
Under section 6104 of the bill, entitled “Duties,” in subsection B6, the legislation states that a commission will be set up to investigate, “Whether a workable, fair, and reasonable mandatory service requirement for all able young people could be developed, and how such a requirement could be implemented in a manner that would strengthen the social fabric of the Nation and overcome civic challenges by bringing together people from diverse economic, ethnic, and educational backgrounds.”
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-1388

Section 120 of the bill also discusses the “Youth Engagement Zone Program” and states that “service learning” will be “a mandatory part of the curriculum in all of the secondary schools served by the local educational agency.”

“The legislation, slated to cost $6 billion over five years, would create 175,000 “new service opportunities” under AmeriCorps, bringing the number of participants in the national volunteer program to 250,000. It would also create additional “corps” to expand the reach of volunteerism into new sectors, including a Clean Energy Corps, Education Corps, Healthy Futures Corps and Veterans Service Corps, and it expands the National Civilian Community Corps to focus on additional areas like disaster relief and energy conservation,” reports Fox News.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/03/18/house-readies-passage-volunteerism-critics-pricey-forced-service/

The Senate is also considering a similar piece of legislation known as the “Serve America Act,” which also includes language about “Youth Engagement Zones”.’”
http://www.opencongress.org/bill/110-s3487/show

Rainbows come at the end of storms: He's Always Been Faithful ~ Sara Groves

Clorox Bomb - A LeTourneau University original! :)

I voted for this at the LETU Film Fest and we had so many good entries that it didn't even win! :)

Enjoy!

An ENCOURAGING New Blog Started by Sarah (a friend of my sister Lydia's): "Not Alone"

Sarah posted this song on her new blog: Not Alone

I HIGHLY recommend that you read Sarah's first post: http://sarahmabee.blogspot.com/2009/03/not-alone.html




Thanks for sharing this Sarah!!!!

Story from Prison: "A Story About a Man Named Wayne" -- Praise God!

From: http://peteriot.blogspot.com/2007/10/story-about-man-named-wayne.html

Praise God!

I wanna start by telling a story of a man named Wayne that I just met yesterday. He just arrived here at the penitentiary a couple of days ago and, at first, didn't seem much different than any of the other inmates.

Yesterday, I decided to introduce myself. At the time, I didn't know why, I just felt compelled to talk to him. Well, he told his story of a life filled with drug addictions and mental health problems. Two of them being bi-polar and schizophrenia. Anyway, I was touched by his story and gegan telling him about Jesus. He seemed very receptive, taking all that I told him, and finally I asked him if he had ever received Christ into his heart and his response was "No." He knew who Jesus was but had never given his life to Him. So, I told him that if he decided to go that direction, I would take him through the steps and pray with him. He said he would let me know.

Well, about an hour later, I was writing a letter to my Bro and he walked up to me and asked me "Are you busy?" I replied "Just writing a letter. What can I do for you?" He said, "I just wanted to know if you would pray that prayer with me." I asked, "The prayer of Salvation?" And he said, "Yeah, that one. But, if you're too busy I'll come back later." I shouted, "NO!" and came off my bunk bed so fast I nearly landed on my face. We prayed and he's saved! Praise God! He is getting baptized this Sunday!
...

Read more: http://peteriot.blogspot.com/2007/10/story-about-man-named-wayne.html

Ronald Reagan Farewell part 2

Ronald Reagan Farewell part 1

"I'm uncomfortable with the idea of punitive taxes."

challiesI don't claim to know much about politics or economics and am no fan of AIG, but somehow I'm uncomfortable with the idea of punitive taxes.

aaytchAIG: The target du jour. Who's next? If it's this arbitrary, it could be me or you. Be afraid.

Savior, Please - Josh Wilson

Never Alone by Barlow Girl - Powerful! Drama

Careful, this is intense at times.

It's Going To Be Alright - Sara Groves

Some Lyrics from http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/s/sara_groves/its_going_to_be_alright.html (emphasis added):

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I can tell by your eyes that you're not getting any sleep
And you try to rise above it, but feel you're sinking in too deep
Oh, oh I believe, I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I believe you'll outlive this pain in you heart
And you'll gain such a strength from what is tearing you apart
Oh, oh I believe I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

When some time has past us, and the story if retold
It will mirror the strength and the courage in your soul
Oh, oh, I believe I believe,

...

While I'm Waiting - John Waller

Some of the words (from http://joy-ziegler.blogspot.com/2009/01/while-im-waiting.html):

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience


While I’m waiting
I will serve You
While I’m waiting
I will worship
While I’m waiting
I will not faint
I’ll be running the race
Even while I wait


I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I’m waiting on You, Lord
Though it’s not easy, no
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait

So Much For My Sad Song - Chris Rice

Home Tonight - Chris Rice

Burn your fire on the altar
Leave a candle on the porch
I'm still too far away to see it
But I'm aching for its warmth
And I'm so tired and cold and dark and lonesome
But still I hear your song inside
So sing it louder if you want me home tonight
Sing it loud now, 'cause I'm comin' home tonight

Chris Rice - Go Light Your World

So Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the lonely, the tired and worn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

chris rice:untitled hymn (come to jesus)

Sometimes the way is lonely,
And steep and filled with pain,
So if your sky is dark and pours the rain... then

Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus and live.

Steven Curtis Chapman - Not Home Yet

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf5FLngLWY0&NR=1

One World -Toby Mac

Made to love - Toby Mac

Lose My Soul - Toby Mac

Give it all away - Aaron Shust

Search my heart, search my mind, search my soul
Make me clean, make me new, make me whole
All of my plans, all of my dreams
I lay them down before Your feet
All of my time, all that was mine
I now submit to Your design
'Cause You are the One who can make my life complete
You are the One who can give light to my feet
You are the One and the only One who dared
To give it all away for me

"My Savior My God" By Aaron Shust

I am not skilled to understand
What God has willed, what God has planned
I only know at His right hand, stands One who is my Saviour, save me
I take Him at His word and deed
Christ died to save me, this I read
And in my heart I find a need
Of Him to be my Saviour, to save me

"Blessed Be Your Name"

"You give and take away, my heart will choose to say: 'Lord Blessed Be Your Name'"

Cool blog; "Always Exploring"

It may have been Anna or Miriam through whom I first found this cool blog: Always Exploring.

From: http://exploratorylife.blogspot.com/2009/02/there-are-moments.html

...
"I have hope."

Another good post I found there: http://exploratorylife.blogspot.com/2009/03/life-is-amazing.html

"Blogging: The History and the Spirit" and "Blogging to Worship God"

An interesting article about the history of blogging is"Blogging: The History and the Spirit":

...
"When you come right down to it, blogging is about two things: reaching and seeking."
...

Excellent thoughts from Blogging to Worship God

...

"Christians might blog on a variety of topics and for a number of reasons, but they share one common goal:

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Cor. 10:31)

If God wants us to eat and drink for his glory, He certainly wants us to blog for the same reason. That means God has something to say about our content, attitude, and motive in blogging.

...
It never seems very sinful when we're writing from our heart, striking a few keys and, pushing "post." No one's there to give us feedback and we're just happy we said what we wanted to say. That's why Christian bloggers need a generous dose of humility. The nature of blogging implies that I think I have something worth saying. That's misleading. The ability to post my thoughts on the Internet is no guarantee that I have any idea what I'm talking about.
...
Before I read a blog, it's always good to ask a few questions.

* Is there a better way I should be spending my time?
* Have I set a limit on how long I'm going to do this?
* Do I plan to guard my heart as I read?
* How much time do I spend each day reading blogs?

My 17-year-old daughter started a blog where she posts pictures she's taken. She sent out an e-mail to let people know about it, and a portion of it said:

"If you ever have any free time and you're wondering, "What in the world am I going to do now?" don't go to my blog. Have extended devotions, or read some good book on our Savior, or serve your family. And once you've done that, come and visit my blog."

That's great counsel.

The blogosphere is a mixed blessing. Used wisely we can benefit from the lives, insights, and creativity of others. Used without discernment, it can be a temptation and distraction for anyone who wants to please God.

Whether you read, write or ignore blogs, I pray that God gives you grace to do it all for the glory of our Savior."

The Widow's Might in Theaters!

I watched "The Widow's Might" this week and highly recommend it!

Here's some info I received in a Facebook message:

“The Widow's Might trailer is live! christianfilmtrailers.com/heumoore/thewidowsmight/”

The theatrical release is a short run; only one week on 100 screens, starting on April 13'th, so this is a very limited chance to view the film in theaters. If the film does well, it's run will be extended. More info and locations will be posted on PraisePictures.com, and WidowsMightTheMovie.com later this week.

"Don't Believe Everything You Read"

From Don't Believe Everything You Read...:

...

If you have time to troll around the 'net looking for the latest "morsels" of gossip, may I highly recommend a media fast? Turn off, tune out, drop out, to reverse the old 1960s mantra. Open the Bible. Open some books. Talk to your spouse. Build up your friends in the church. Flesh-and-blood relationships should be our first priority in any case, and keeping ourselves transparent, open, and accountable to our real-life friends and family members is key.

It can be a real temptation to become an online "expert" or to be the go-to person for the latest (mis?)"information" or tasty tidbits. Let's choose instead to be busy about the good things God has given us to do (Ephesians 2:10). For those who do run ministries, write for magazines, produce books, etc., my top recommendation is to ignore the blogosphere of gossip. After dipping one toe in two years ago just to see what was being said about LAF, I've never gone back. If someone really wants to confront you in a pure and honest way, he will make the effort to write you or call you. Posting gossip online is a foolhardy pastime, but trying to find and read it is just as foolish. Live the life God has called you to live, be accountable to real people, and be open and approachable when someone does take the time to get in touch with a sincere question. We should all be open to the loving, sincere correction of our fellow Christians.

Gossip cannot stand up to long-suffering, calm, consistent truth. " Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest" (Proverbs 26:2). So there's no need to go on the defensive or (worse) attack back. Rest in the Lord, Who is the best Defender.

Read more: Don't Believe Everything You Read....

"Fearless, Effective Evangelism"

I considered attending the "Way of the Master" evangelism training at LeTourneau University this semester. However, I decided not to.

I talked to Doug Hudgins, a man I greatly respect this weekend and he said he thinks that Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort's "Way of the Master" approach to sharing the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a good one. After reading the following article, I am much more inclined to attend the "Way of the Master" evangelism training if it is offered again.

From Fearless, Effective Evangelism:

Boundless: So how would you speak to people who are fearful of sharing their faith? Why is it important for people not to be held back by fear or other motivations from sharing their faith?

Kirk Cameron: The eternal destiny of people, people that we love, other people's loved ones....

Fear is something that we will all battle as Christians. That's one of the greatest tools and weapons that Satan has to use against us to just keep us in the barracks and not get out there onto the field and fight the good fight.

And if you think of what we're afraid of, especially in America.... We really don't need to be afraid of being burned at the stake. We don't need to be afraid of being stoned or our heads cut off for sharing the gospel with somebody. We live in America.

We're afraid of being rejected, which is a pretty wimpy thing to be afraid of. We're afraid that someone is not going to like us. We're afraid of being looked at as an unintelligent, obnoxious, religious fanatic if we share Jesus Christ with somebody. And we're so terribly afraid of that, that they're going to reject us and not like us.

The key to getting over fear is compassion. It's love for other people. And that's what Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." If we will care more about what happens to this person than we care about what might happen to us, than we can overcome fear, and that's what Jesus did. He had determined in his mind he was going to obey the Father because he loved the Father. He affirmed that in the garden. He said, "Not my will, but Thy will be done," and He came to seek and save the lost.

What's the worst-case scenario for the person who's going to go to share his faith? I might get rejected. What's the worse case scenario for the guy who doesn't hear the gospel and dies without the mercy of God? Eternity in the lake of fire.

So what we should do is let fear drive us to our knees and say, "Oh, God. I'm scared stiff. My knees are shaking; my hands are sweating at the thought of sharing the gospel with this person. But if I love them, I'm going to do it anyway. Please give me the strength." And every Christian knows that when we are weak, that's when God can demonstrate His might.

And we need to speak the truth in love with an understanding of how to do that biblically; that's what we try to teach through the Way of the Master — so that you're not running out into battle with no weapons. You're not out there with a couple of feather dusters in your hands trying to do battle. You've got the ten cannons of God's Law aimed directly at the sinner's conscience, not at his intellect. And they're designed to blow holes in his self-righteousness and bring him to the foot of the cross where he can appreciate the grace of God. It's a wonderful and powerful tool. Charles Spurgeon called it our ablest auxiliary. He said it's the strength of the arms of the Gospel to show him his desperate need of a Savior.

And sadly, the Church has gotten away from it because the Law brings conviction of sin, and that's uncomfortable. And that is possibly offensive to people. And so the Church has gotten away from talking about sin and hell in any kind of a confrontational kind of a way.

But that's the only thing that will drive a sinner to the cross and say, "I'm done with me. I'm laying my life down. I'm laying down my arms; I'm surrendering to God, even if it costs me my life. Because I am gaining something much more valuable than my life here on earth."

...
Relationship Evangelism

Boundless: What do you think of relationship evangelism, where you don't really say anything directly about the gospel? You build relationships and you wait for them to ask. What would you say to someone who says, "Well, that's what I'm doing. That's what I feel I'm supposed to do"?

Ray Comfort: I'm a very strong believer in relationship evangelism, building relationships. Sometimes I wait two or three minutes before I witness to someone. I build that relationship and get to know them and chat with them.

And I'll tell you my cue from Jesus with the woman at the well: He built a relationship it seems over two or three minutes before he spoke to her about eternal salvation. And the reason we need to do that is that friend you're building a relationship with could die tonight with an aneurism, and then what are you going to do?

Besides, who are the hardest people to witness to? Relations. I mean, my mom — I'd rather talk to a thousand atheists than witness my mom. It's uncomfortable. And the reason for that is if I witness to a stranger and offend him, he says, "Get away, you fanatic." It's forgotten; it's gone. I haven't lost a thing except my dignity. But if my mom says that to me, I've lost a relationship.

Kirk Cameron: That's so true. If you really sit down and think about it, we're not anti-relationship. I mean, we should try to build relationships and care and have friendships.

But how many times do you have a family member that you try to witness to and you think, "They know me so well. They know all of my secrets in the closet. They won't listen to me." And you say to your buddy, "Oh, if you could just witness to my father, or if you could just talk to my brother." "Oh, God, I'm praying you'll send somebody to go talk to him who doesn't have a history, and who he'll listen to."

We can't pass up an opportunity to witness to strangers because it is far easier, there's nothing to lose, and there's no back history that clouds what you're saying. You know, it's almost like a prophetic voice speaking to somebody where they go home and go, "Wow, I wasn't expecting that today. I wonder if that was, you know, God trying to speak to me." It's a great thing to witness to people that you don't know on every level.

...

I highly, highly recommend that you read the rest of this article: Fearless, Effective Evangelism

What do you think?

Note: I've also posted this here: http://goodnews.elijahlofgren.com/2009/03/fearless-effective-evangelism.html

"How to Get Clarity in Your Relationship"

From How to Get Clarity in Your Relationship:

...
The Necessity of Knowing

You may be having fun with the guy you're dating, but if you're unsure of where you're headed as a couple, what's good today can undermine where you hope to be long term. Kelly and Mark were a great couple. They'd been together a long time and everyone assumed they'd eventually marry. So did she, hopeful that he would pop the question, soon. But he never did. By the time she got clarity about the relationship, she'd spent six years with him. Now she worries that she wasted her childbearing years on a relationship that was "fun but had no future."

When what has been a good thing drifts on for months and even years, the DTR can seem like an unwelcome threat to your relationship's equilibrium. But it's essential. For a relationship that has marriage potential, it can be a timely accelerator. For a relationship that has been more about convenience and consumption, it can be a timely course correction.

As hard as it is to hear "no" in the moment, if that's the inevitable outcome, it's better to hear it in year one than year six.

So what does this essential conversation look like? It can take several forms. For the bold, a straight up question has the benefit of efficiency. For others, a more subtle approach can cultivate clarity without an ultimatum. And for those of you with an involved dad or mentors, you can have someone ask the questions on your behalf.

...

Read more: How to Get Clarity in Your Relationship.

(I've also posted this post here: http://family.elijahlofgren.com/2009/03/how-to-get-clarity-in-your-relationship.html)

"Finish Rich or Finish Right (or Both)?"

From "Finish Rich or Finish Right (or Both)?":

...

But there's one big problem with that: These experts and I are coming from completely different perspectives. The goal of their advice, simply, is to have enough. Have enough for retirement, or enough to feel safe, or enough to live out my dreams, or enough to whatever. My goal as a Christian is righteousness. Instead of having enough, I want to be right with God. He is my provider. I am only the steward. If I don't get that straight, it doesn't matter how much I'm sticking into my 401 (k).

So, I've learned I need to be cautious when taking financial advice. My question can't be "Will this work?" It has to be "Is this what God wants me doing with His money?" As long as I keep that straight then maybe I can pick up a few tips from the gurus.

So that's how I approached Bach's book. Not looking for an overall financial strategy — God's already got one for me — but looking for a few little nuggets. I found some good tips, one thing I would take issue with, and one pleasant surprise.
...

Read more: "Finish Rich or Finish Right (or Both)?".

"American Idols III: The American Dream"

From American Idols III: The American Dream:

...

Sadly, I don't think many of us who claim to be following Jesus' teachings are applying them consistently. I often have lingering feelings of dissatisfaction about my career. I want a more lucrative and prestigious job so I can provide for my family and be at the top of my profession. There's nothing wrong with success, and God says we should do everything with excellence to bring glory to His name, but sometimes my focus isn't just on God. I spin my wheels trying to get ahead, without considering how God might guide me, and without appreciating God's provision. The result is feeling of vocational discontent that ebbs and flows. I identify it and excise it from my life, but then it creeps back again.

Christian students might be tempted to worry about their grades and test scores, thereby leaving a biblical perspective in the dust while pursuing noble achievements. For some students — maybe especially at Christian colleges that are proud of their academic excellence — academic success can then turn into a mark of importance and create the temptation to snub lesser peers. Of course it's important to do well in school, but some students treat grades like the utmost source of fulfillment.

The American Dream can also cloud our financial perspective. I know Christian twentysomethings so obsessed with their investments that their daily moods fluctuate with the whims of the New York Stock Exchange. Others cycle through their time, money and emotional energy by upgrading their clothes, cars, houses and home decorations — and then they do it all over again! And too many of us are deep in debt because we're using credit cards to maintain our desired standard of living. We should be lowering our standard of living to afford a debt-free life. I've known several friends who said God called them to missions, but they were too deep in debt to comply.

Some of our Christian leaders also advocate the pursuit of the American Dream. They say it's important for Christians to be successful and influential because God can use them to change the world. Such is the perspective of Hugh Hewitt, host of a nationally syndicated radio talk show and a committed Christian, who wrote the recent book, In, But Not Of. Hewitt's book, a how-to manual, features more than 40 short chapters of solid and practical advice to help young Christians succeed. The counsel ranges from moving to a major city and attaining status by attending a prestigious university — Hewitt's a Harvard grad — to avoiding debt and tattoos.

In the preface of In, But Not Of, Hewitt explains why he is offering the advice. Salvation depends on people's ability to hear the gospel, he says. Powerful Christians can use their position to protect religious freedom, which is essential for evangelism, he writes. "The effective and mass communication of the gospel depends upon the freedom to proclaim it.... Though it is possible to proclaim the gospel in the face of persecution, the unfettered freedom to do so is much, much preferred.... The creation and defense of religious liberty requires men and women with power and influence in the world."2

Hewitt says that Christians "of appropriate ability" should seek positions of power and use them to protect religious liberty. This also means protecting America from its enemies, Hewitt says, "and extending the influence of Western democracy around the globe, for no amount of religious liberty in America will assist in evangelizing closed and dictatorial societies around the world."3

Respectfully, I disagree with Hewitt. Before expounding on my critique, I'll say that there are those who disagree with me. Boundless has already run a positive review of "In, But Not Of." Fundamentally, I believe Christians should only strive for positions of influence if God is their guide. And to hear God's voice we must accept Christ and be committed to righteousness and our relationship with God. Hewitt makes cursory mention of things like being involved in church, but his book, by design, is more practical. "This is a book about acquiring influence,'' Hewitt writes. "[T]hus what follows is a very 'worldly' discussion, and not for the fainthearted who think worldly ambition is itself evil or who are repulsed by Alexander Hamilton's blunt conclusion that 'fame is the highest calling of the noblest minds.'"4 This seems to be Hewitt's justification for writing a book of advice for young Christians that stresses worldly ideals rather than Godly ideals.

Maybe I'm "fainthearted," as Hewitt says, but in the Bible it seems that the appointment of influential leaders was an act of God. Moses and Paul had the background to be leaders, but neither orchestrated his ascent to a position of influence. Moses is certainly no portrait of ambition. He tried to talk God out of appointing him a leader of the Israelites. Esther, a woman credited with saving the Jews, had no plans to attain her position of power. And Jesus' disciples — the men who founded Christianity — were a collection of misfits who obeyed Jesus when he said, "follow me." So what's the bottom line? Biblical leaders have faith in common, not ambition.

I have several other disagreements with Hewitt. First, communicating the gospel is certainly not dependent on the "unfettered freedom" to evangelize. According to the book Jesus in Beijing: How Christianity Is Transforming China and Changing the Global Balance of Power, by David Aikman, former Beijing bureau chief for Time magazine, Christianity is thriving in Communist China, a country where Christians (and people from other religious groups) are commonly imprisoned for their faith. Despite the Chinese government's persecution of religion, Aikman said there are now as many as 100 million Chinese Christians. One-third of the country's population could be Christian in the next 30 years, he said.5

This does not mean that American Christians shouldn't appreciate and promote religious freedom. We must be thoroughly grateful for our democratic form of government, which may be the best in the world. And we should never sit idly when someone is suffering persecution or oppression. But this is the work of the Church as much as it is the responsibility of any form of government.

Certainly, Hewitt's book is full of sound advice. And perhaps his intent was that it applies only to people already in tune with God. But it also has potential to cause confusion, because the priorities of the American Dream — the "Trump style" version or the Everyman version — are ingrained in our culture. But God calls us to live a radical life as His servants. When the rich young ruler asked Jesus what he must do for eternal life, Jesus said, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." The young man went away very sad, the story says, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven."6

I don't think this is an argument against power. I think Jesus is saying that rich people can easily misapply their faith. The American Dream emphasizes education, wealth and power. Jesus emphasized faithfulness, submission to the spirit of God, prayer and the values of the kingdom of God. Ultimately, it doesn't matter if we live the American Dream. We may not get the life that "The Donald" says we should have, and we may never experience financial security, own a home, or enjoy 2.5 children. But if we're faithful, our fulfillment will spring from our relationship with God.

Read the rest: American Idols III: The American Dream.

Indirect Communication: Don't OVERUSE IT!!! - "The Hindrance of a Hint"

From The Hindrance of a Hint:

Kerry has a new friend in her church. He has been e-mailing her quite a bit about various topics, has included her in group activities that he's planned, and he's given her a book that she once mentioned she'd like to read.

He's been attentive but, until recently, she wasn't sure of his intentions. Lately he's been more personal in his attentions. He hasn't used any defining words like "date," "courtship," or "relationship." He's just asked her to go to dinner, the movies, or other activities with him. Alone.

She's left to interpret what this means. Her interpretation is that he's moving from friendship to something more.

But Kerry is not interested in her new friend, at least not in a romantic way. So she's been declining his invitations. "I'm hoping he'll get the hint," she says. "I don't want to hurt him, but I don't know why he keeps on asking me out when I'm always saying no."

Trina has a crush. A bad one. The kind that sends her back 10 years to a giggling girl in middle school. The object of her crush seems interested in her, too. He makes jokes about them in silly ways, hinting at his possible affection. He likes to spend a lot of time with Trina, and often talks to her about his hopes for marriage, his plans for the future, how he's trying to grow as a man in Christ, and so forth. He says he's a better man for knowing her.

But he doesn't directly pursue Trina. She's sure he's hinting at his interest in her, but she's confused about what to do if he's not clearly initiating something more. "Is he waiting for me to give him more encouragement? Why isn't he being direct?" she asks.

Kerry and Trina are not alone. Many of their single friends in their respective churches wrestle with the same scenarios. So much hinting! So little real communication. Ugh. No wonder awkwardness abounds among singles. Could there be a more elegant way for men and women to communicate? There is, but it doesn't rely this heavily on hints. A hint is only a glimpse of a larger statement. It is easily misunderstood because it is only a fragment of the necessary information. We hint because being direct seems so costly — even though in the long run, hinting is notoriously ineffective.

The Expectation-Experience Gap

Hinting makes the other person do the heavy lifting in communication. They must figure out what our expectations are and what we want to experience. Because there's precious little direct communication, there's plenty of room for both sides to feel defrauded, frustrated or disappointed. Tara Klena Barthel and Judy Dabler, authors of Peacemaking Women, call this tension the "expectation-experience gap."

Consider one example of uncommunicated and unexamined expectations from courtship. We have sometimes observed in the Christian community a rather specific but unspoken set of rules concerning courtship and dating.... Although some of these "rules" may have their foundation in appropriate biblical truths of manhood and womanhood, when "rules" become paramount and the focus is taken off of agape love and placed on a set of expectations, the foundation for a romantic relationship becomes shaky.

Frequently conflicts arise when men do not understand the implicit rules they are expected to follow. A huge expectation-experience gap arises between what a woman wants and what the man actually does. The woman gets frustrated and pulls back; the man is confused and pulls back; and the very standards of conduct that ought to control all Christians, male and female alike, go out the window. Instead of filling the gap with gentle honesty, mutual respect, genuine authenticity, and abiding mercy, relationships end with no explanation.

Indirect communication widens the "expectation-experience gap" and fuels the genuine frustration that single adults often endure. Consider the poor man who has been told that Christian women won't show any interest or encouragement. So he keeps asking out various women and getting turned down — by women who are hoping he'll "get the hint" and stop asking. How unnecessarily frustrating this is for both sides.

In saying this, I'm only addressing a pattern of ongoing indirect communication. I'm not talking about banishing the artful hint that has jump-started many a romance. I'm all for men initiating relationships — bring it on! And I'm all for women giving them a bit of encouragement to do so.

That's the fun side of a hint. But that shouldn't be our continuous mode of communication. There comes a time when we women need to consider the "speech commands" issued by Scripture and evaluate the way we communicate against the Bible's standards.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29 NIV, emphasis mine).

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue (Proverbs 31:26 ESV).

For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned (Matthew 12:34-37 ESV).

Why is it that we are afraid to speak directly to someone? Why do we rely on hints and avoidance techniques? I would argue that this is a manifestation of what the Bible calls "fear of man." We are worried about what others think of us — either we crave their approval or we fear their rejection. There's also laziness involved. It's much easier to duck someone with an expectation of us than it is to gently and graciously talk to them about it. But does this build up our brothers and sisters for their benefit (Ephesians 4:29)? Does this follow after the Proverbs 31 model to speak with wisdom and kindness? And will we have to give a good or poor account of our careless words (Matthew 12:34-37)?
...

Read more: The Hindrance of a Hint.

I really appreciate clear communication. I really appreciate clear communication between family members, simple acquaintances, and those with whom there may be the possibility of a relationship beyond friendship.

(Also posted here: http://family.elijahlofgren.com/2009/03/indirect-communication-dont-overuse-it.html)

"I Don't Want to Just Go Through The Motions" - Matthew West

"The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still."

From: http://www.gospeltruth.net/unashamed.htm

The Fellowship of the Unashamed by Dr. Bob Moorehead


I am part of the "Fellowship of the Unashamed."

The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line.

The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

I am finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, chintzy giving, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I now live by presence, lean by faith, love by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power. My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back, diluted, or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I must go until Heaven returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He comes to get His own, He will have no problem recognizing me.

My colors will be clear.

I am not ashamed of the gospel . . . Romans 1:16

Amen.

"I was second-guessing my wife who decided to give up her very successful career to stay home with our kids. After all, the peer pressure is insurmountable!"

From Amazon.com: What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Women: James C. Dobson: Books (emphasis added):

A MUST READ for any HONEST man who wants to support his wife in raising children and maintaining a wholesome family.
If you are a male specie who wants to vegg out on a recliner while waiting for a wife to cook you dinner, then don't waist your time reading this book. You will hate it. Because it is simply against your little miserable existence of avoiding responsibilities. No wonder why there are so many feminazies out there! They are sick and tired of men escaping responsible decisions... I wish those women would hear Dr. Dobson. Let the truth be known. That egocentric bozo they experienced as their husband (or father) is absolutely NOT what God intended a true husband (or father) to be.
I was second-guessing my wife who decided to give up her very successful career to stay home with our kids. After all, the peer pressure is insurmountable! Having read this book, I am inspired as never before to SUPPORT AND CARE FOR my courageous wife. I have recommended this book to all my male friends who have faced similar dilemmas.

More about the book: What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Women.

"A person’s ability to resist temptation gets worn down..." - "Marshmallow Time"

From Sliding vs Deciding ™: Marshmallow Time

...
Back to the point. Wargo goes on to describe some pretty amazing research on self-control. Studies show that a person’s ability to resist temptation gets worn down. When you have to keep it together for awhile, doing whatever you wanted or thought you should do can get harder for a bit. Your willpower gets tired and it’s easier to just let go after a period of being more disciplined. As Wargo puts it, self-control is a limited resource. Partly what this means is that even if you do a great job on waiting for two marshmallows, you might then have trouble with the M & Ms....

I'd rather have Jesus!

From: http://biblicalwomanhoodblog.blogspot.com/2009/03/id-rather-have-jesus.html

I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I'd rather be His than have riches untold;
I'd rather have Jesus than houses or lands,
I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand.

I'd rather have Jesus than men’s applause;
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than world-wide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy name.

Hes fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;
He's sweeter than honey from out of the comb;
He's all that my hungering spirit needs,
I'd rather have Jesus and let Him lead.

Than to be a king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin's dread sway,
I'd rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.

-Lyrics by Rhea F. Miller

This is my heart's desire. I want to be satisfied fully, solely, and completely in Christ Jesus Himself. I want Him to not just be prominent in my life, I want Him to be pre-eminent. I want Him to be my life, my all, my everything.

There are so many things in this world which seek to pull us away from Christ, to woo our hearts, to capture our attentions and affections, to sway our eyes off of the Lord. All of these things are nothing. The riches, the glitter, the glory... it's nothing in light of Eternity.

Amen.

"Get Married, Young Man"

From Get Married, Young Man
by Alex Chediak:

Perhaps what I've said sounds selfish: finding a wife to "produce blessings" for me. But we all naturally pursue what we think is in our best interest. That's how God has wired us. Sin arises when we seek happiness outside of God, or when we do not prize Him as being greater than any wife could ever be. That kind of attitude can lead to our pursuing good things (like a girlfriend or wife) in ungodly ways (like among non-Christian women or through sexual experimentation).

But I've found that an opposite problem is common today among men — particularly Christian men from good churches: not trying to find a wife at all.

I had that problem myself for a number of years.

The Lord got a hold of my life in some unusual ways when I was in my early 20s. I had plenty of friends through church, and life seemed great. I had lots of free time, plenty of money to eat out, travel and give, and could do what I wanted whenever I wanted. I lived a pretty lax spiritual life in college, not getting into too much trouble but not going hard after God either.

At 23, that changed and I wanted more of God than I had ever had before. I wanted to read theology books, be in as many Bible studies as possible, and know everything about God and His ways that I possibly could.

But the desire for a wife came slowly, and seemed in some ways unnatural. I hadn't been hearing that I needed a wife — after all, wasn't God enough? Didn't Paul say that it was good to remain single, as he was (1 Cor. 7:8)? And that each one should remain in the condition in which he was called (1 Cor. 7:20)? I told myself I could marry if God called me to, but that unless He made that unmistakably clear, I would — and should — stay my bachelor course.

I've known many single guys who think this way. The logic goes like this: "I'm a Christian. I love God. I currently don't have a wife. If God wants me to marry someone, He'll make that explicitly clear. For me to get proactive in the process is to imply that I don't trust God to make it happen. And seeking a wife seems less spiritual than taking on another ministry responsibility. After all, I'm single. I really should commit all my time to God, and not be distracted with thinking about girls."

The problem with this line of thinking is that not every man who has the status of singleness is gifted for singleness. God requires all singles to be celibate until marriage (to abstain from sexual expression in thought and deed), but because most singles aren't gifted for lifelong celibacy, most should seek to marry.

...

As a single man in my early 20s, I could not "receive" this. By God's grace, I was not fooling around or hooked on pornography, but I found sexual thoughts and attractive women to be a recurring distraction from my walk with God. Every few months it seemed that a platonic or professional relationship with an attractive non-Christian woman would develop alluring sexual potential. You don't have to date a woman nowadays to get into compromising situations. A single man with strong sexual interests (and that's most of us men) and available sexual encounters (and that's most of us) is in frequent danger.

I've found that protection against sexual sin and the opportunity and the pleasure associated with monogamous sexual intimacy with the woman I love to be a very real benefit of marriage. But there are others.

Marriage enhances my walk with God. Living with my wife forces me to deal with sin issues that were more easily overlooked in my bachelor days. A wife is not very much like a guy roommate — the emotional synergy she will look for from you is far more encompassing. And just because we overlook (or are not forced to deal with) certain sin patterns as singles doesn't mean they aren't there. In fact, one of the dangers of staying single too long is that the quirks we get away with as bachelors can turn into habits that our wives will not appreciate and that we will find hard to break.

...

There's nothing unspiritual about wanting marriage. Marriage is an important, normal, sanctifying, biblical aspect of adulthood. It provides protection from sexual sin, companionship, and the privilege to procreate and give back the gift of life.

Just as it's not necessarily sinful to be discontent and take action if you're unemployed or hungry, God has wired most of us with a longing for the sexual and emotional intimacy of marriage.

Yes, our ultimate and primary satisfaction must be in God, and His purposes can shine forth in our lives regardless of our marital state. Nevertheless, if you're not gifted for singleness, go ahead and seek a wife. You'll be more valuable for the Kingdom of God as a sanctified husband and father than as a single repeatedly getting tripped up with the sexual or emotional struggles common to singleness.

Marriage won't solve all your problems. But your life will generally reflect a deeper maturity and winsomeness that will open doors for relationships and ministry. Know that God's grace will be with you as you step out in faith. Men, what are you waiting for?

Read the rest: Get Married, Young Man
by Alex Chediak

Update: Sorry, I forgot to include the link to the article when I first posted this. ;)

Are You Sliding or Deciding?

From http://www.boundlessline.org/2009/03/are-your-sliding-or-deciding.html:

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Being now well into middle age (sorry, I know I'm not your target audience), I'd say my best important decisions have been neither sliding nor planning. Instead, I've been blessed with having a good opportunity come along, and then with the sense to grab it and stick with it. That goes for most of the jobs I've had, my overseas study program in college, getting married, and staying home for twenty-five years to raise my children. The one time in my life I really had a plan, I got married instead. No regrets! Now I'm looking at starting over in the work world. Nothing special has come along yet, so I'm making a plan. But if the right thing comes along, I'll take it.
...

"Boundless: Your Turn-More Fallout: Premarital Sex"

Boundless: Your Turn-More Fallout: Premarital Sex:

I love a girl I've been dating for two years. What hurts my walk with the Lord more than anything else is lust. We don't have sex, but we often mess around well past our proper limits, and it's getting worse. What can a weak-willed person like me do about this problem? Any ideas? God bless you.

Good questions. Many young Christians assume that when they find themselves in situations which weaken their sexual self-control, they should just stay put and be tough. That's a huge mistake. Scripture doesn't tell us just to stay put in the face of temptation. It tells us to flee temptation. Avoiding it will require some changes in your relationship, because the first thing an unmarried man and woman need to do is stop spending their time together ALONE. Alone is what you do on your wedding night; that's why it's so cozy. So when you spend time together with your sweetheart, do it where others are present. When you date, go out with a group. When you pray, have others join you, because this is the most intimate time of all. Sounds odd, right? That's just because we're no longer used to it. It used to be called common sense.

A Prayer For Marriage and Relationships

From Just Starting Out:

Lord, You know my heart better than even I know it. You made me for Your glory and pleasure. Your goodness and love is billions of times better than the greatest love my mind can comprehend. Your plans for me are perfect. Your love for me is perfect. There is nothing I can do to make You love me more, and nothing I can do to make You love me less. Grant me the grace to make You my deepest passion, the strongest desire in my life. Make my heart like Your heart. As You transform me more and more into the image of Christ, prepare my heart for the seasons and relationships You have planned for me. Prepare my heart to receive a spouse that together, we would bring You the greatest glory and pleasure, for that is my life's goal. You know exactly who that would be for me. I yield myself to Your unspeakable wisdom over my life. Amen.

Relationships: Just about me and a girl, right? NO! You're forgetting someone!

From Just Starting Out:

There is no formula that guarantees that a relationship or marriage will happen for any of us. Yes, we might be able to do a number of things that prepare and position us for marriage, but in the end we all must humble ourselves before a sovereign God and yield our lives to His plan, whatever it might be, and whenever it might be. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, Proverbs says, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.

So that's where I start. I don't start with me and my needs or wishes. I start with God and His sovereignty and glory. That might seem subtle, but it is a huge paradigm shift for most Christians. Orienting myself to making the glory of God my top priority shifts the emphasis of my life, and therefore my relationships and ultimately, my marriage, from being about me to about God. If we can understand from the start that as a Christian my life is not my own, it will be enormously helpful down the road. Our life then is marked much more with thankfulness for what we receive than disappointment over not getting our "entitlements."

Having the right orientation about life affects how we then view relationships and marriage. Yes, we want someone whom we enjoy. Of course we want someone who enriches our life. Obviously we want someone with whom we connect emotionally and spiritually. But above all of those things, we want someone with whom together we bring glory to God.

So now that we've got the right framework, let's build on it. Practically speaking, begin asking God to prepare your heart, and to show you the areas where you need growth before you begin this phase of your journey. As you think and pray more intentionally about this area of your life, keep your heart open to the ways God might lead you.