Tsunami relief

Just read on my church's webpage that an offering will be taken up during all services this weekend to contribute to relief
I am sure that this is one offering that the critics won't be upset about
Teams of doctors & specialists are also being called for. Great 2 see - people, team work, unity, ACTION!

Contagious encouragement

Just got a touching email from a reader of the blog....thanks for the encouragement....it's amazing how a few moments of time taken to send a few words can make a person's day or sometimes transform a situation.....we don't always know their whole situation but we can be light, or salt, or joy, or peace at that time - how cool!!!!!!

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds"
- Hebrews 10:24

Nat-chan & Atsufumi-san!!!!

My Japanese "sister" * Nat-chan & her husband Atsufumi just beamed this to me via the wonders of Japanese technology!

Posted by Hello

* "sister" because the whole family has adopted us ever since the days Nat-chan & I met at a youth camp in Japan

Disappointments & Patience

"Disappointments are only delays. What cannot be enjoyed today will possibly be yours tomorrow" - John Maxwell

"But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently" - Romans 8:25

Fave present

Really enjoyed hanging with the family @ Christmas....playing with the kids' toys & games but my fave present this year is my iPod......since I had no internet access when I was away, I have been busy ripping & syncing since returning.....I have included heaps of worship & messages.....soul food for the coming new year.......including John Maxwell, Brian Houston, Bobbie Houston, Darlene Zschech, Donna Crouch, Phil Dooley, Scott Samways, Kong Hee, Mal Fletcher, Paul DeJong & many others.

Blog Declaration

Dear Coffeegrinder (regular visitor to Coffeegrind) & visitors,

I accept book writing offers, comments & emails. I have no affiliation (other than as a high level consumer) with any coffee company mentioned on this blog.

I may mention my family, my church & faith, my thoughts, youth work & coffee, and make no apologies for it, as it is a personal blog. I will often quote John C. Maxwell, whom I believe is an expert on leadership & the Bible - the ultimate source of wisdom & principles for success.

My goal in creating this blog is to encourage & inspire as many people globally as this medium allows. I'm an amateur, not a professional journalist/writer.

Please leave comments or email, as I need encouraging also! : )

Regards
Jason

GONE FISHIN'

well not quite yet.....but don't know how many posts I will get in before I have......2 sleeps til Christmas & I am really into it this year (I think more than the kids).....Going up the coast to Mum's for Christmas......Boxing Day we will head further north to Forster & do a spot of "catch & release" on the sandy spit under Tuncurry Bridge.....good for whiting I believe.....this will be our first father-son fish but Mum & sister will be there too! : )

Merry Christmas to you all ......I may "see" you tomorrow.....thanks for reading me this year & sticking with me (hope I didn't bore you too regularly)

Think New Thoughts

My notes from my journal (see previous post) entry today

"A leader's ability to achieve anything great for God begins in his or her own heart and mind"
- John Maxwell

The mind is the battlefield where many things are won & lost.
A new heart, a new mind (2 Cor 5:17)

Leader - a simple test: is anyone following me?
Ability - natural or acquired skill or talent
Achieve -perform with SUCCESS, accomplish
Great for God - HUGE, linked in some way to the Cause.

Input - what do I allow into my heart? My mind?
Furthermore, my ears? My eyes?

Philippians 4:8 (MSG) - "Summing it all up, friends. I'd say you'll do your best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious - the best, not the worst, the beautiful, not the ugly, things to praise, not to curse"

WHO do I allow in "my world"? my inner circle?
WHO inputs into my life? Is it beautiful or ugly?
Is it of good reputation & honorable?
The people in my life have a significant impact on my life, my time & my surroundings.
Choose wisely. What do I need to change?

WHAT do I do with my time? Do I value my time?
Do I invest it on the best & not the worst?

168 HOURS AVAILABLE EACH WEEK. Make it count!
Significant, meaning, excellence, quality, regard, worth, legacy

How I spend my time impacts what I think about.
What I think about impacts the beginning of things (both good & bad)

Invest time wisely. The best, not the worst.

WHERE do I spend my time? Do I need to UPgrade my surroundings?
What atmosphere am I a part of & contribute to?
My environment?
Guard eyes (media) & guard ears (gossip)

Focus on the excellent & praiseworthy.

Am I confined? Need to change surroundings for comfort?
Too comfortable & therefore apathetic?

Early Christmas - the sequel

Last night we had my in-laws over for dinner as we are away for Christmas.....we got into some early present swapping & it was fun to rip & tear with the kids......my wife cooked an outstanding meal & I received a John Maxwell - Think On These Things 31 Days To Renewing Your Mind desk booklet & his Think On These Things 40 days To Renewing Your Mind Journal.

I guess I will have a new mind in the new year! : )

Nearly obsolete sayings

Read something about this today & was discussing with my wife.....technological advances are making sayings obsolete or at least uncomprehendable to the latest generation & the next.....such as "you are like a broken record", "roll down your window" , "dial so & so" & "the line is busy. Any others that you can think of?

5.3kgs lost in 2 weeks!

Quickloss indeed! Was very disciplined at mine & my wife's work Christmas parties........but now for the real test - Christmas lunch @ Mum's place! Approx 30kgs to go

Books

Just finished reading "THIN BLUE LINE" by Christine Caine today. Decided to buy a new one & walked out of the bookshop with "EVE-OLUTION" by Faith Popcorn.

Also heard about Google Print - digital content of books. Reading just got more accessible!

Early Christmas

Last night my brother in law & his fiance came over for Christmas dinner, as we will be away this Christmas. It was great to eat together (always love eating with people) & exchange presents.

Our 6 year old son Elijah was given a Hot Wheels Loop with cars and I think our 1 year old daughter Ruby enjoyed playing with it more! She would grab speeding cars from the track with no fear. It was hilarious!

I was given some coffee : ) , a Tim Tam coffee mug & a bendable Chris Jericho action figure. (First Christmas toy I have received in a long time - different)

Feeling more Christmas-y this year & looking forward to ripping & tearing wrapper with the kids on the 25th.

Weigh in! GOOD REPORT

Hey, I'm on the way! This quick loss works - I had my first weigh in today after I missed it yesterday due to unforseen circumstances. After 8 days I have lost 4 kgs! How cool!

Gotta keep it up! Thanks to Gavin for the encouraging comment - appreciated ; )

Killed onstage

I just can't believe this - although I was never into Pantera or Damageplan, I just can't get my head around the thought of a guy charging onstage at a gig killing at least four people.

Apparently, the band Damageplan had just begun their first song Wednesday night at the Alrosa Villa when the man shot guitarist "Dimebag'' Darrel Abbott multiple times at point-blank range.

Senseless!

38 years old, someone's son, someone's brother & I bet he never thought that would happen that way after decades of touring.....what a twisted scenario

Change of Habits

Just pondering.....Habit def. A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition

I have started changing some habits regarding diet, and it has made me think on habits in general. I havent had a coffee in at least 4 days (don't panic coffeegrinders!) & have set my goal to go back to coffee on Tuesday, only from now on it will be espresso or americano (diluted espresso). The milk I was having in it was the equivalent of an extra meal of protein & at several cups a day plus meals that adds on the gut!

Habits are not just what we do, but also what we think. Some habits are good & fruitful. Others bad, destructive.

Philippians 4:8 (MSG) - "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious--the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse"

Through time, habits are like concrete or set in stone. The hope here is that they still don't need to be permanent just because they appear to be (like concrete). Take your jackhammer out!

It's not easy, it may hurt. Like John Maxwell says "You have to give up to go up". If I want the weight off I have to make the changes & it is tough in the beginning. The coffee is only one of many examples I have changed & it doesn't just apply to eating habits.

What do YOU think?

Test results

(Refer to post "testing")
Test results are in - all clear for diabetes, thyroid, liver & kidney!!!!!!
For extra accountability I will post the following-
I am now on a journey to going from 115kgs to 80kgs over the next 7 months.

Japanese visitor

Izumi (from Japan) just emailed to say that she is coming to visit from 8th to 13th January 05. How cool! How short but how cool!

We are looking forward to it. She hasn't seen our daughter yet, so that will be cool.

Fishing

Anyone know where they are biting?
I am gearing up (literally) to get into some fishing. Some urge to get out into the nature and wrestle a bear for a salmon LOL. I haven't done it since I was a kid with my father & grandfather so it will be interesting. They have both passed on so I can't ask them for tips. You got any?
I have started some research on the net & noticed you can get your temporary licence at Shell servos

Back

Quick post....back home....Batemans Bay was a lovely spot....pity I was caught up in some workshops....wife & kids went to beach, pool & zoo....got a sms whilst I was away - we got the go ahead to move into the new building, should be completed by Feb 2005! YAY! Later!

Going away

Going to some workshops & taking the family to Batemans Bay so won't be back online til Friday at the earliest. Will catch your emails & comments then. Blog on!

Black Sabbath

Was reading these lyrics to the song AFTER FOREVER by BLACK SABBATH today - check out some (thought provoking questions for some)

"Have you ever thought about your soul - can it be saved? Or perhaps you think that when you're dead you just stay in your grave Is God just a thought within your head or is he a part of you? Is Christ just a name that you read in a book when you were in school?....

Could it be you're afraid of what your friends might say If they knew you believe in God above?They should realize before they criticize that God is the only way to love......

Perhaps you'll think before you say that God is dead and gone Open your eyes, just realize that he's the one The only one who can save you now from all this sin and hate"

communic8

The impact of technology on relationships?

Testing

Regarding my obesity.....yesterday I gave some blood to be tested for thyroid problems, diabetes, cholestrol & a few others. Results in about a week. Watch this space!

WORD - Kibitz

def. - To look on and offer unwanted, usually meddlesome advice to others

This blog????

Thickburger

So much for the diet! Anyone for a monster thickburger?

Ideas

Ever hit a roadblock in your creativity or struggle to come up with ideas? Maybe the Idea-A-Day website can help.

You can look up ideas or subscribe to have one emailed to you daily. You might not like or use the idea but it could spark something else!

Weight loss

A friend just told me about SureSlim. His brother went from 22 stone to 15 stone. It interested me cos the doctor said I am obese. It looks good cos they start with blood tests to determine if you have things like diabetes and also to check out your metabolism before they get you dietting etc.

Anyone got any feedback on it?

Elijah has spoken!

Not Elijah of Bible fame but our 6 year old son.....interesting conversations this afternoon. I wanted to share a bit.

Elijah says it's not nice to call someone an American Idiot (note-Green Day song). "Would you say that Mummy?" Then the killer line- "They shouldn't say that about us cos we are Americans" (Note - We are Australian!)

The impact of marketing, pop culture & media?????? The impact of his geography lessons?????

NO CONTROVERSY

Of course it is the end "times" but regardless of whether it is the end "time" up near, consider this - YOU & I only have 1 time & it is NOW! I think it was John Maxwell, who once said "Life is not a dress rehearsal"

Make your life count. Make your contribution to your community count.

"What we do today echoes in eternity" - Maximus (Gladiator)

We are not just a cultural subgroup differentiated by religious belief or faith. We are a culture with values or lifestyles in opposition to those of the culture of today. In fact, we are bringing in the new. It is happening as I type. It is happening in the worldwide political arena. It is happening in the entertainment world & it is happening in the religious scene. We are bringing in absolutes, bringing in life, love, a future & a hope.

I believe we are not here to be ultra-modern, current or the latest trend. We are here to be cutting edge, prescient & prognostic. We can't do this in our own natural strength but we can do it by being connected to our supernatural, all knowing Heavenly Father!

Where's my hits?

Author Seth Godin says that "blogs work when they are based on Candor, Urgency, Timeliness, Pithiness andControversy (maybe Utility if you want six).......If you can't be at least four of the five things listed above, please don't bother."

With millions of blogs on the net, and my lack of most (if not all) of the above, I guess I don't get the hits (and readers). Thanks to those who do read & send me emails. It makes my day......now for some controversy......LOL

New building(4pics)

This is the building I mentioned last month. Near roundabout....across the road a cinema complex is planned for construction in 2005

Posted by Hello

Layout is a backward L shape.....the land here on the inside is for a courtyard. There is a cafe going in downstairs right next to the yard. If successful, I aim to have youth markets in the yard & bands performing on the balcony to the crowd below. Rock on!

Posted by Hello

Tenant submission approvals announced in 2 weeks! Anticipated occupation is early Feb 2005

Posted by Hello

Upstairs is the section applied for. Recording studio, dark room, kitchen, youth hall & balcony. Pics taken today with Sony Cybershot.

Posted by Hello

Enjoy

"Trust in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy" 1 Timothy 6:17

How freeing is this verse! The balance to the force is not to get materialistic, but it is easy for some to go to the other extreme and think it is holy or righteous to not enjoy anything. Balance is the key.

Current read

I am currently reading "12" by Paul Benger. Paul Benger is the senior pastor of Chesterfield Christian Life Church. Get your copy here.
Really getting into it! It is refreshing! I NEEDED TO READ THIS BOOK (stop shouting)

Happy 6th birthday Elijah!!!!!

Posted by Hello

Writing tips...

....required. Any help appreciated.
I am currently writing for my role as a youth worker. It doesnt neccesarily have to end up as a book as such but will be in some print form for workshopping.
What should I look out for? I intend on presenting it myself first term next year, tweak after feedback then publish & sell. Any tips? traps? thanks.

Dream sequence

1. I thought it - everyone does this one "Could it happen?"
2. I caught it - get excited, see yourself in the dream
3. I bought it - put a deposit down, invest in your dream (the difference maker)
4. I sought it - desire, it possesses us
5. I got it - it's tangible, "I'm glad I chased that dream"

Good night, I'm off to dream....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....

Excellence/High Standards

The Bridgewater experience rocked (see previous post). There was housing construction going on behind me but because of the stream I couldn't hear it. Everything that was before me was completed so I positioned well!

I was drawn to Daniel as an example of someone with high standards that led to favour. I have seen great favour recently at work & wanting to learn more so I don't take it for granted, and also wanting to see more to achieve the dreams God has given me.

Here are some Bridgewater thoughts about Daniel chapter 1.

v.4 - Am I "young" enough to be trained? Am I "young" in spirit & energy?
Good looking? Make an effort with personal presentation. Represent well
Have a good, clear mind - quick to understand, possess knowledge
Be cultured & skilled. Daniel taught literature & language.
Have an ability to serve

v.5 - Three years of training - Am I teachable? Dedicated? 3 years of intense training not half a Saturday each week for a month.

v.8 - Purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself. Had strong convictions & responded to them. Took action. Purposefully lived it out.

v.9 - Favour with people because of God. Influence.

v.12 - "Please test your servants for 10 days" Submitted himself. Team player. People skills. Negotiation skills. Charisma.

v.17 - Gifted abilities obvious to other people.

Bridgewater

Hey Coffeegrinders.....I have found a new spot for some quiet time, some time alone, time for reading & reflection (I guess like Paul from Hillcountry Thoughts' porch!, except my "porch" @ home has loud kids nearby)

The place is in the new Bridgewater Estate which is on the border of the Camden & Wollondilly areas. A beautiful spot has been created part by God, part by man. Nature has been left in place with some man made additions. There are heaps of trees and a waterway.

I have a few hours before work.
A few hours there & maybe a coffee at the in-laws on the way to work should make a good start for the day.

Worst Enemy

“Beware of no man more than yourself. We carry our worst enemies within us"-Spurgeon

Revenge Of The Sith Trailer

I just saw it online & it looks great! The missing chapter linking old & new trilogies! Next May!

HAVE A GO!

“It’s not the critic that counts. Not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly…who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who have never known either victory nor defeat”

- Teddy Roosevelt (1858-1919, US President)

Hillsong London&Paris

Coffeegrind’s London correspondent (LOL) & my new friend Amy reports on the great testimony of what God is up to in Hillsong London & the Paris connect group. An exciting report!

“LONDON - We usually have 6 services on a Sunday,but 2 weeks ago at the end of the 6th service there were still over 500 people queueing outside, so we had an impromptu 7th service! It's so great being part of a church that is willing to go the extra mile like that. The best part about this is that the venue we are using is a theatre, which we rent, and we need to pack down every Sunday and move all our stuff back to a lock-up. So after this impromptu 21.00 service, the team had to stay back even later than usual and pack down - but nobody complained :-) It's great!"

PARIS connect group - "About 4 weeks ago we had our first salvation over there! Brendan White, one of our pastors, was speaking, with one of our team translating for him. Some of our pastors go over there via Eurostar nearly every weekend, if they can't go over we have a video tape of the last weeks service for them to watch.

We have our Colour conference this weekend - 2200 women in Wembley Conference Centre! We've got people registered from all over Europe!" AWESOME!

Authority

I was just thinking of what is going on atm.....Howard & Bush re-elected, UK election tipped for New Year, Arafat in a coma. Regardless of which country you are in or how you vote - a lot is riding on the leadership of nations. There is a cultural shift going on. A counter culture. I thought of some verses, so I will post them & leave the rest of the commenting to you

"God-devotion makes a country strong" - Prov 14:34 MSG

"Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it's God's order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you're irresponsible to the state, then you're irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible" - Romans 13:1,2 MSG

"Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level" - 1 Peter 2:13 MSG

"Pray for Jerusalem's peace! Prosperity to all you Jerusalem-lovers! " - Psalm 122:6 MSG

Bateman's Bay

I am taking the family to Batemans Bay in about 3 weeks time. First family holiday in about 2 years. We have never been there so has anyone got any tips? Best coffee? Restaurant? Sightseeing? Must do activity? Any tips appreciated. I will be going to 2 daytime workshops but the rest of the time will be awesome.

Prayer request

Hello all Coffeegrinders! We are now global -thanks for the emails that I am getting from around the world, everywhere from Chesterfield & London (UK) to Texas (USA), Japan, Perth, Liverpool & Hills District (Australia). Encouraging - good to know the blog posts are read.

We are a praying people & the prayers of the righteous are powerful & effective.

May I ask the prayer warriors worldwide to lift up my sister in law Sarah from Wales in prayer. She has been married for many years now & has been unable to conceive. This is the desire of her heart. Please join us in prayer for her & her husband Tom (my wife's brother) thanks!

Responding to Grace

Matthew 20:1-6 is a a parable which gives us 3 different examples of responding

1. People who see the landowner as unfair - the perspective of the 12 hour workers. The more we think we have earned, the more we think God is unjust.
2. People who see themselves as undeserving, unworthy, guilty (false humility) instead of joy & gratitude. The more we do this, the more we bring condemnation on ourselves.
3. People who gratefully accept God's grace. God's desire to give to us is based on His grace. Be thankful.

James 4:6 - "God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble"

Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is a gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast"

The Potential Seed

Potential - def. possibility, capability, power

One seed has the potential to restock the whole world, just like Noah's Ark
We may be able to count how many seeds are in an orange, but how many oranges are in seed?
We are destined for greatness. God sees potential in us.

Do you see potential in yourself? In others?
God believes in you, do you?

Rock for the Rock?

When I heard that certain 80's metal/hard rockers have been born again - I got excited. I was excited that they were saved but I was also excited when I noticed they all played different instruments & could form a rockin' praise band.

I wonder if it will ever happen, even if its just for a CD project.

Introducing a "dream" band, on vocals Mr Alice Cooper, on guitar Mr Dan Spitz (Messianic Jew, formerly of Anthrax), on bass Mr Dave Ellefson (ex-Megadeth) and on drums Mr Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden)

Wouldn't that rock!

THRIVE,FRUIT,LOVE

Psalm 92:13-14 MSG "transplanted to GOD's courtyard, They'll grow tall in the presence of God, lithe and green, virile still in old age"

Lithe def. supple
Virile def. strength, vigor, power, potent

Where are you planted? Are you planted in good soil or just in a pot off to the side? Get planted in God's house, His courtyard! Get connected with God, His Word & His people.

What are you & I producing? What fruit do we bear?

Colossians 1:10 - "And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God"

Galatians 5:22,23 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. "

Mark 12:30,32 - "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

Neighbor def. One who lives near or next to another, a person, place, or thing adjacent to or located near another, a fellow human

"Is God asking you to crawl to China or just to cross a street?" - "Crawl To China" song by Tourniquet

I pray that today you & I are fruitful by loving God, loving people & ourselves. Maybe you & I can bring life,light,love or hope to a neighbour or workmate today?

Notes - "Becoming"

Brian Houston - Hillsong Men's Conference Oct 2004 - "What will become of you?"

Genesis 2:24 - Leave, be, joined (cleaving), becoming

What will become of your life? Maybe you started out wanting to be famous or rich.
Do you want to become a better husband or father?
The key to becoming is in the leaving, being & cleaving (sticking)
God has thoughts (plural) for you.
You are on His mind. Thoughts that He thinks (present tense)

1. The impact of leaving on what you become
Ecc 10:4 - Do not leave your post.
If a man leaves his faith, he won't become a mighty man of God.
If you leave your commitment to your marriage vows, you won't have a successful marriage.
There is a time to leave & a time not to leave.
1 Cor 13:11
Becoming a man means there are certainthings we need to leave behind.
Prov 22:6
What's some of the bad training you need to leave behind?

2. The impact of being on what we become
Be still & know that I am God.
Be filled with the Spirit.
Being in Christ. You can only get this by revelation.
Get a revelation of who we are in Christ.
It's based on Him, not me.
You have such a winning edge as a Christian.
His thoughts are higher than our thoughts.

3. The impact of cleaving on what we become.
Don't cleave to stuff you should have left.
Cleave - pursue, chase hard (active)
Joined to your wife, your church, your friends
Anything you take for granted, you give the devil licence.

This will help you to become what you will become:

• Stick to those you love
• Stick to your visions & dreams
• Stick to your word
• Stick to your job
• Stick to your faith
• Stick to your marriage vows, your commitment.

Survey says....

What is the biggest challenge facing Aussie Christian blokes today?

This was the question asked of several Pastors & Leaders at this year's Mens Conference.
Here are some of the responses:

1. Being a father (not just biologically, but spiritually) We live in a fatherless society. We should be leaders to the mislead & embrace the rejected.
2. Pressure to be good at so many things. We need to get our worth & esteem from Christ. Live out who we are in Him first & let the rest flow.
3. Struggle with a sense of inner value. You can't compare yourself with others. Measure yourself by Christ in you
4. Shame & condemnation. Jesus gave us the power to find forgiveness. Our condemnation is lifted. Our past is our past.

Testosterone Fueled

I was re-reading my notes from last month’s Men’s Conference, particularly Allan Meyer’s session on “Becoming A Valiant Man” (no, not the car!)

He talked about the importance of sexual purity & integrity. I recall last year’s Mens Conference & Paul DeJong mentioned that talking about temptations & getting them out in the light is a way of overcoming.

It’s interesting how a male brain is wired. Allan Meyer mentioned how images are attractive to the male eye, powerfully stimulating & that we are optic directed.
There is a lot of talk about porn in these conference settings but what about media/ads that most don’t consider porn or even the girl at the train station or at the shops! Imagery is always flashing before a guy’s eyes. One solution I read once was to start praying for the spiritual health (growth or salvation) of the female rather than getting hooked in a visual snare.

Testosterone plays a part in the formation of parts of the brain that differ between a male & female. It also is what fuels a man regarding sexual behaviour.

Regarding the brain bit – I guess testosterone formed that part of my brain that gives me the skill to walk into a shop, buy my targetted good & go home as opposed to my wife who wants to make a trip to the mall like a vacation!

Ignition

John the Baptist said "I'm baptizing you here in the river, turning your old life in for a kingdom life. The real action comes next: The main character in this drama (Jesus)--compared to him I'm a mere stagehand--will ignite the kingdom life within you, a fire within you, the Holy Spirit within you, changing you from the inside out.”
MATTHEW 3:11 MSG

"Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks" ACTS 2:3 MSG

Darth Vader & Faith

Darth Vader said “I find your lack of faith disturbing”

Hebrew 11:6 - "But without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him"

Soar above!

Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself – Exodus 19:3,4

They (those who hope in the Lord) will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31

The eagle symbolises power.

Known to have incredible eyesight. (I guess that’s why we have the phrase – “eagle eye")

Carried on eagle’s wings & soaring like eagles speaks to me of being lifted to a different position, a different perspective – where things look different, where you can get the bigger picture & see more context, things make more sense, kinda like a "widescreen view" on DVD I guess you could say!

This “widescreen view” is called monocular vision, and is so because the eagle has eyes on each side of its head. They can see on both sides and ahead, giving them more chance to escape danger! We have binocular vision – where each eye’s vision overlaps.

When a storm is coming (trouble brewing) the eagle is already aware of this.

When the storm comes (circumstance, challenges) the eagle sets its position so the storm’s winds will lift it above. Whilst the storm is raging below, the eagle soars above. The eagle used the storm to rise above it. PRAISE GOD! In the midst of adversity lies opportunity.

Wings are strong. They are used to harness the power of wind and to provide lift & downforce. A wing needs to be strong as it “attacks” the airflow.

Birds can use their wings as a form of protection or shelter for their young.

Ruth 2:12 - May you be richly rewarded by the LORD , the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge."

They (those who hope in the Lord) WILL soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31

THAT’S A PROMISE! AMEN

Notes - "Identity"

Message - Ps. Brian Houston @ Hillsong Church Sun 31/10/04 1045am service

Ephesians 1:6 – accepted in the Beloved
v.3 – in Christ

Where does our acceptance come from? In the Beloved, in Christ.

v.10 – everything summed up in Him
v.11 – who we are & what we are living for.

We need to take on the thinking of Christ.
How does the Word speak of you?
Chosen, royal, special
How does that line up with what you think of yourself?
Who you are is in Christ.
Live according to that.
Look into the mirror of God’s Word.
Build your security & identity according to the Word.
It will change your life.

Marks of security in Christ –

1. You don’t have to tear others down to build yourself up (Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another)

2. You see inner convictions more the mark of a man than being tough outwardly

3. A person who forgives even when another doesn’t apologise

4. You find gifted people an inspiration, not a threat.

5. You know how to take the garbage dealt to you & turn it into a positive (eg. Joseph)

Beautiful Sunday

What a beautiful day today! Blessed out of our socks. Today we had a family service in church so our boy Elijah who is nearly 6 got to sit with us instead of being in his program. The kids performed the title track of the new Hillsong Kids Praise & Worship CD coming soon called "Jesus You're My Superhero". That is a CD on the shopping list for the kids & Mum & Dad for sure! :)

Phil Dooley read the annual children's animated story of Daniel & the Lion's Den complete with angel coming from the ceiling and King Nabi-kednezzer (my personal favourite)

Brian Houston brought a message about our identity found in Christ & the marks of a person whose identity is in Christ. (notes soon) Foundational I believe in overcoming circumstance & situation.

Then we had lunch with new friends Dan, Vereen & Joshua. Awesome people. Friendly & loving. It was great hearing about Dan's book that he has nearly completed writing. Maybe I can read it when it's released & write a review on here. hmmm....
It was also great to hear of the great works God is doing in their relationship & business, and also about the wonderful day experienced by all at Lucille & Ben's wedding. Testimony of the power,love & mercy of God in your life encourages others - tell your story!

I feel tired this arvo but I know that I am blessed. God is great!

Hansard

Check out this transcript of a speech read in NSW Parliament about Hillsong Church!!!! http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LC20040915037

Prophecy

I am currently reminded of a few prophecies & I am thinking through them.

One said that a congregation was great at loving vertically but had to get it together toward one another.

This goes well with what Brian Houston said last night. He mentioned that it's one thing to be known to be excellent at doing events, but it's also important to be good at community. How true! I need work on this one, how about you?

I consider also the prophecy given by Kenneth Copeland regarding 2004 - The Year of Fullness and 2005 - The Year of Overflow. Quote - "By the close of 2004, all callings will come to fullness…All that will obey Me will come into full manifestation...Follow My leading. Listen to Me. Listen to My Spirit… Things that now look impossible and unchangeable will suddenly turn around. To the world for no apparent reason. But you will know the reasons, for your knowing what I am doing will increase and also come to fullness."

AMOS 3:7 - "Surely the Lord God will do nothing without revealing His secret to His servants the prophets"

I'm back!

Well, here I am....miss me? I have just had no chance to blog. I am getting very busy at work but it's not a bad thing, it's quite a buzz. I was telling my wife that I haven't had a chance to blog & she said that I had better get on here and say hello so here I am.
I have decided not to blog my notes from the bible readings for now, but who knows that may change later (the world of blogging)

Have you heard or watched the webcast of Richard Roberts, Oral Roberts & Kenneth Copeland over at http://kcm.org It is called The Wake Up Call. I have listened to the first 3 days so far. Interesting.....time to take heed.

Went to church leadership vision night last night. It is great to be able to go to live worship on a Thursday night & also to have great words spoken into your life. My wife commented the other day how we are flourishing now & she credits it to the different atmosphere around our lives brought by words spoken by those around us. After all, words are powerful. Words of life or death.

Remember the building approval I mentioned, well it's about 3 weeks away. I have a dream for that place inside and outside of my role. I am entertaining thoughts of a youth prayer & healing service every Friday night & a connect group on another time outside of my work hours. This wouldnt be til next year as the building won't be ready til Feb 2005.

Anyways, hope all is good. Shoot me an email. I appreciate the ones I get. Remember, the best is yet to come!

THANK YOU! CONFERENCE!

I just want to take time out from the usual blog content to say thanks to those people who have sent kind emails & for being awesome prayer warriors!

I am truly grateful for the precious time taken by those that I have only met "here" to uphold myself & my family in prayer.

I have a good report to present. After a failed business attempt, self removal from ministry, emotional torment from judgement of my role as husband & father, and financial struggle, I am pleased to say we have breakthrough. My new role as a youth worker is providing us with funds but also is seeing doors fling wide open with access into schools, & the potential to be the tenants in a brand new youth purpose building currently under construction . I will tell you more about the building l8r.

Even though the youth work I now do is connected to a community service & I cannot preach as such. I can present the gospel without words a la the Good Samaritan. Doors are opening here too as Hillsong Emerge has a great program called SHINE which we are looking to introduce into our local high schools for 12-14 year old girls. It has had great success in other geographical areas, and now we have an opportunity.

Anyway, just wanted to report on this & say thanks. Be encouraged. Your prayers are powerful & effective. May not be online much the next few days. Going to our church's Mens Conference. Awesome speakers - Paul De Jong (NZ), Gary Clarke (UK), Allan Meyer (AUS), Zhenya Kasevich(UKRAINE) & Brian Houston (AUS).

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 21/10/04

MARK 4, PSALM 23, PROVERBS 4:24-27

MARK 4
Are you a sower?
More than one seed is needed for a crop.
Harvesting is a process, not an event.
We reap what we sow.
Expect fruit.
Inside the fruit is more seed.

PSALM 23
This is read at my family's funerals, even for unbelievers who have passed away. Interesting. Why is that? Comforting? Maybe it's because of the mention of death in v.4 - dunno?!

The Lord needs to be your shepherd & provision (v.1), your peace (v.2), your pardon (v.3), your partner (v.4), your preparation (v.5) this side of death!
In other words, ask the Lord to be your Lord today. Go on, just ask, speak to Him in prayer. Get to know Him in the Bible, be reconciled to Him, then you will dwell in His presence forever (v.6)

PROVERBS 4:24-27

Don't lie. ( Exodus 20:16)
Don't speak of perverse things.
Look ahead (Pillar of salt - Genesis 19:26)
Consider where you walk. Choose only firm foundations (rock v. sand) & level paths.
Keep your feet from evil. Don't be found standing in the wrong spot!

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 20/10/04

MARK 3, PSALM 21, PROVERBS 4:20-23

MARK 3
v.2 - The accuser is watching us closely, waiting to accuse us
Accuser of the brethren - Rev 12:10

v.20 - Jesus & the disciples were going to eat together. Spending time together is important. Relate, connect, engage. TEAM WORK.
Food & coffee always helps! It's about people!

v.33 - "Who is my mother or my brothers?"
Good question to ask. Which people are you linked with, connected to, have fellowship with, do you support?

PSALM 21 (you may choose to re-read yesterday's post?!)
Quote Darlene Zschech - "Do you trust Him to fight on your behalf? Do you trust Him with your life? Do you trust him with your death? Do you trust Him with your children? Do you trust Him with your family? Do you trust Him to guide your steps? DO YOU KNOW HIM WELL ENOUGH TO TRUST HIM COMPLETELY? "

Know God, trust Him completely, make Him known

PROVERBS 4:20-23 Wisdom
Pay attention to the Word
Listen to God
Keep the Word in front of you daily,
meditate/think on it constantly
Life & health is the promise
Guard your heart for it is the start of life
Your mouth will reveal what's in your heart. (Luke 6:45)

What's coming out of my & your mouths?
Faith? Trust? Negativity? Perverse words?

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 19/10/04

MARK 2:13-28, PSALM 21, PROVERBS 4:14-19

MARK 2:13-28
Jesus picks His team. He sees potential in those that others don't. Jesus makes a choice that others didn't see coming - a Roman government tax collector called Matthew.

DO YOU SEE POTENTIAL IN PEOPLE?

PSALM 21
Be thankful to God for your victories.
v.2 - God's favour is available to us. We need to "voice" our heart's desire and keep talking to Him. HE WANTS TO BLESS US!

v.12 - God is our protection, our security!
v.9 - The wrath of God. Fire. Furnace.

PROVERBS 4:14-19 Wisdom
Don't participate in evil things. AVOID.
Wickedness, violence, stumbling in the dark.
The path of righteousness shines bright.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 18/10/04

MARK 2:1-12, PSALM 20, PROVERBS 4:10-13

MARK 2:1-12

How bad do you want it?

Fulfilling a goal isn't always easy. You might need to think outside the box eg. going in through the roof & it may be costly to achieve the goal eg. wouldn't they have had to repair the roof?

PSALM 20
v.1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble

v.9 May the King answer us when we call

v.6 He WILL answer His anointed from His holy heaven

anointed def. chosen, sanctified, consecrated, set apart for sacred use

v.4 May He grant you according to your hearts desire

Psalm 37:4 - "Delight yourself in the Lord & He will give you the desires of your heart."

PROVERBS 4:10-13
Command & promise

Command - Hear, receive my sayings, take hold of firm instruction, keep wisdom

Promise - Many years of life, steps unhindered, will not stumble, life

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 17/10/04

MARK 1:24-45, PSALM 19, PROVERBS 4:8,9

MARK 1:24-45
Jesus is our example. He had authority & command of every situation (v.25)
v.31 - Give people a hand up, not just a hand out (permanent solution v. temporary fix)
v.38 - Know your purpose. What cause are you here for?
v.41 - Jesus was deeply moved & filled with compassion (our example)

PSALM 19
This speaks to me of seeking fresh, new & regular revelations of God. It's important to spend time with Him & in His Word daily to do this.
God has revealed so much of Himself in His Word & in His creation. I shouldn't be ignorant of this. I should be in awe of the wisdom in His Word & of His wonderful creation.
v.14 - what a great prayer for today! Pray this prayer.

PROVERBS 4:8,9
Grab hold of wisdom, hug, embrace, never let her go, value her.
Wisdom will honor you & promote you.
Wisdom will give you grace & a crown of beauty, glory & splendor.
I'm really getting the picture that Sister Wisdom is a great friend to have in your life!

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 16/10/04

JOSHUA 12, PSALM 18:31-50, PROVERBS 4:7

JOSHUA 12 - Joshua was obedient & was getting the job done. The passage tells of the kings conquered by Moses & then Joshua. Yet there was still more land to possess.

IS THERE STILL MORE FOR YOU & I TO POSSESS?

PSALM 18:31-50
Great passage to read when faced with giants.
WHAT GIANTS ARE IN MY WAY?
There is nothing impossible for God.
It is God's ability & our availability.
Give God the glory. Take David's example here. He knew who gave him the strength.

PROVERBS 4:7
First priority, above all else, is to get wisdom.
MSG version - "Write this at the top of your list"
With wisdom, get understanding, discernment, comprehension & interpretation.

Discernment def. act or process of exhibiting keen insight & good judgment

Comprehension def. act of grasping the meaning, nature or importance of something.

Hosea 4:6 (MSG) - " My people are ruined because they don't know what's true or right "

No discernment = no sense (Deut 32:28)

Get wisdom. Seek wisdom. Pray for it. Ask.
Nothing you desire can compare with wisdom.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 15/10/04

JOSHUA 11, PSALM 18:16-30, PROV 4:5,6

JOSHUA 11 - Yet again, obedience is the key.
v.9 - Joshua did as the Lord told him

v.15 - As the Lord had commanded Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did.

ANAKIM - v.21,22 (descendants of Anak)
"And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight." Numbers 13:33

Joshua expelled them from the land, but they remained elsewhere (v.22)

Judges 1:20 - "They gave Hebron to Caleb, as Moses had directed. Caleb drove out the three sons of Anak"

Deut 9:2 - "gigantic people, descendants of the Anakites--you've heard all about them; you've heard the saying, "No one can stand up to an Anakite"

David encountered descendants of the Anakim in 2 Samuel 21:15-22.

The ANAKIM & REPHAIM are apparently descendants of the NEPHILIM. Nephilim in Hebrew means "the fallen (ones) ".

Genesis 6:1-4 (MSG) -" When the human race began to increase, with more and more daughters being born, the sons of God noticed that the daughters of men were beautiful. They looked them over and picked out wives for themselves. Then GOD said, "I'm not going to breathe life into men and women endlessly. Eventually they're going to die; from now on they can expect a life span of 120 years." This was back in the days (and also later) when there were giants in the land. The giants came from the union of the sons of God and the daughters of men. These were the mighty men of ancient lore, the famous ones. "

PSALM 18:16-30
v.18 - The Lord was my support
v.28 - The Lord will enlighten my darkness
v.30 - The Word of the Lord is proven.

PROVERBS 4:5,6
Get wisdom. PRAY - ask for it.
Love wisdom.
Wisdom preserves you.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 14/10/04

JOSHUA 10, PSALM 18:1-15, PROVERBS 4:1-4

JOSHUA 10 - Joshua had compromised when he made a covenant with the Gibeonites, but he still kept his word & integrity intact by protecting them.

JOHN MAXWELL'S LAW OF THE BIG MO (momentum)
Maxwell notes that Israel didn't have any. They lost Moses, had been in the wilderness for years & stood before a mighty river & walled cities. Enter Joshua.

Maxwell's tips on how to get momentum:

1. Obedience to God
2. Speak of past wins under God's direction
3. Quick wins
4. Faith in God's promises
5. Courage
6. Erect memorials of God's faithfulness for remembrance

PSALM 18:1-15

God leaving Heaven & coming down to rescue His Creation from the snares of death.

Sound familiar????

God heard David's cry. God hears our prayers, how awesome is that!

PROVERBS 4:1-4 Good counsel.

This speaks to me of listening, paying attention & being teachable. It's an attitude, one that will pay dividends. Obedience (v.4) is the key also, as Joshua has been demonstrating.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 13/10/04

MARK 1:1-20, PSALM 17, PROVERBS 3:31-35

MARK 1:1-20 John Maxwell notes that John the Baptist prepared the way for change.

How good do I respond to change? Do I help prepare the way for change? Generally, humans don't like change.

Maxwell also says that the Messiah was different to what the Jewish people expected, so John the Baptist had to get people ready for a radical shift.

When we want to see transformation do we welcome it & aid it, or stifle & hinder it?

v.14& 15 - Jesus begins His ministry & says to believe in the gospel. Believe in the Good News!

v.17 - Fishermen to fishers of men. It's all about people, not just fish! Love people, love yourself. Don't be hard on yourself. Learn from your mistakes, repent, turn to Jesus, get up & go again, go forward. Love yourself & others. (I believe that is for one of the readers today)

PSALM 17

v.12 - David's enemies (v.9) are likened to lions lurking in secret places, eager to tear their prey.

Ephesians 6:12 - Our battle is not against flesh & blood

1 Peter 5:8 - The enemy roars around LIKE a roaring lion.

Note: "LIKE".

He is a counterfeit & falls short of what he wants to imitate (eg. love imitated by lust), for it is the LION OF JUDAH that has won, overcome & conquered (Rev 5:5)

PROVERBS 3:31-35
v.32 - The perverse person is an abomination to God.
Perverse = twisted (MSG version)
Abomination = can't stand it (MSG)

v.33 - God blesses the home of the righteous

v.35 - Wise living gets rewarded with glory, honor & good.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 12/10/04

1 THESS 5:12-28, PSALM 16, PROVERBS 3:27-30

1 THESS 5:12-28
v.12 - Honor your leadership. They are responsible for urging you & guiding you in obedience. Some followers don't honor, some leaders don't urge. This is where we need to act in love & grace.
v.13 - OVERWHELM THEM with appreciation
v.16 - Be cheerful always
v.17 - Pray always
v.18 - Thank God no matter what

v.21 - Don't be gullible if someone says they have a word for you. Check it out against the Bible (the surest Word). Keep what is good.
v.22 - Throw out the evil

v.24 - God said so, so He will do it!

PSALM 16 - A "miktam" of David

Miktam = type of Psalm, found in the heading of 6 psalms (if you know what it means, please leave a comment or email me, thanks)

v.4 - Those who have other gods shall have their sorrows multiplied DON'T GO THERE!
Don't worship other things, God deserves our worship (or "worthship" as Darlene Zschech has said)
v.6 - I have a good inheritance! God has set me up well.
Put God first in all things.

PROVERBS 3:27-30
v.27 - Don't withhold help from those who deserve it. We are God's hands to that person.

Can I meet a need? Take affirmative action.

v.28,29 - Love in action with our neighbour. Don't take advantage of them.
Matthew 19:19 - Love your neighbour as yourself.

v.30 - Don't go looking for a fight.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 11/10/04

1 THESS 5:1-11, PSALM 15, PROV 3:21-26

1 THESS 5:11 MAXWELL - Vision: Paul was a futurist.
Paul turns his attention to the future & the day of the Lord.
We can count on this one future event.

"Where there is no hope for the future, there is no power in the present" - John Maxwell

1 Thess 5:8 - Put on the breastplate of faith & love, and the helmet of the hope of salvation.
Ephesians 6:14 - breastplate of righteousness
Ephesians 6:17 - helmet of salvation

PSALM 15 - Values
v.1 - Who may live in, experience the presence of God?
The psalm continues with the character of such a person.
v.2 - integrity, honesty, trustworthy
v.3 - does not gossip or harm others
v.4 - honors others, speaks out against wrong, keeps his word
v.5 - not greedy, doesn't take bribes, is strong, stable, shall no tbe moved.

This is the value system you & I must have, the character we must display if we are to have access to God in His Throne room. We need to be clean. If we have this rightstanding, the Bible tells us to boldly enter the Throne room (Hebrews 4:16)

The entry ticket has been purchased by the Blood of Jesus!

Let's live set apart, pure in His sight.

PROVERBS 3:21-26

We need to value wisdom, insight, clear thinking & common sense.
They will be life savers for us, saving us from traps & surprises, keeping us safe & sound.

v.22 - They will keep us attractive (I need more wisdom) : )

v.24 - More promises of a good night's sleep (Psalm 3:5, 4:8)

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 10/10/04

JOSHUA 9, PSALM 14, PROVERBS 3:19,20

JOSHUA 9 - John Maxwell talks about negotiation & compromise. Israel negotiated with the Gibeonites & ignored God's order to destroy the city. Negotiation is not wrong in itself, but we must never negotiate our convictions, direct orders or core values. When we negotiate these, we compromise our mission.

v.9 - How great it would be to hear people testify of God's fame that they have heard of from far away, and they are drawn to it. I don't just mean geographically.

PSALM 14:1 - It's a sad reality that many say "There is no God". The evidence of God is in & around our lives (creation). Take some time to meditate & marvel at the complexity of the human body. There is a God - He is our Maker!

v.2 - When God looks down at His Creation, may He find people who acknowledge Him & worship Him. May He not need to look far.

v.5 - God is in the generation of the righteous. We can influence this generation for right. We have a testimony.

PROVERBS 3:19,20
God made the earth by wisdom
By understanding he made the heavens
By His knowledge rivers & springs were created,
And dew falls from the night sky.

Wisdom def. insight, common sense, good judgment

Understanding def. comprehension of the nature & significance of something

Knowledge def. understanding gained through experience or study

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 9/10/04

JOSHUA 8, PSALM 13, PROVERBS 3:13-18

Joshua 8 - Maxwell's Law of Navigation: Joshua balances planning & faith.
Maxwell puts forward a question that is very timely to my life today -
"When does human planning get in the way of trusting God for results?
Or conversely, when does faith become presumption, expecting God to do for us what we must grab hold of ourselves?"
Balance faith & human preparation.
Joshua demonstrated this balance. He asks whether the army should attack & if so, when. God orders the attack & instructs Joshua to set an ambush but gives no further instructions. Joshua planned the details.

Psalm 13 - Darlene Zschech: "The Psalms are teaching us to use our trials, fears, setbacks & disappointments as fuel for VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIVING! "
v.2 - David has a heavy heart
v.3 - David moves from his restlessness, his circumstance into prayer, activating his faith.
This is a choice you & I can make.
How do I respond to circumstance?
CHOOSE TO OVERCOME
Turn my attention to God rather than what state my faith is in or my circumstance.
Live with certainty & assurance.

Proverbs 3:13-18 (Compare with yesterday as same reading)
God blesses everyone who has wisdom & common sense.
Wisdom leads us safely along.
Wisdom is the source of happiness.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 8/10/04

Joshua 7, Psalm 12, Prov 3:13-18

Joshua 7 - Disobedience to God can derail your destiny.
v.7 - Sometimes it feels like God has brought you through so much & you have overcome so much but now you are being destroyed. It's not God's fault.
v.11 - The reason is sin, disobedience, a violated covenant.
v.10 - God says "get up!"
v.13 - The solution: Purify yourself. We need to remove sin from our presence to move forward into the destiny of God. Remove cursed things from our life.

"Don't allow compromise to dilute the cause" - John Maxwell

Psalm 12 - God will not allow evil to go unpunished (ties in with Joshua 7)
Just like David, we sometimes focus on the negative circumstance instead of what God can do. The words of the Lord are pure. His promises are pure.

Proverbs 3:13-18
Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the person who finds wisdom & insight.
Nothing you could imagine comes close to wisdom, not even a bank account with a balance figure containing many zero after a number!
Wisdom brings long life & recognition.
Hold onto wisdom tight.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 7/10/04

1 Thess 4:13-18, Psalm 11, Prov 3:11,12

1 Thess 4:13-18
v.18 (MSG) - Reassure one another with these words
v.14 - Jesus died & broke loose from the grave.
When Jesus returns, the dead will rise first (v.15) & the rest who are still alive will be caught up with them in the clouds to meet Jesus (v.17)
v.18 - There will be one huge family reunion with Jesus
WHO ARE YOU TAKING TO THE PARTY?

Psalm 11 - We shouldn't flee. God hasn't changed His Holy address - He is still in control, seated on His HeavenlyThrone.
It's time to take God at His Word!
v.7 - Upright men will see His Face. Access to the King's Throne. His presence.

Proverbs 3:11,12
Don't resent God's discipline & loving correction. It's the child God loves that He corrects, a father's delight is behind all this.

How much more is this understandable & real to me since having kids!

Sometimes when I am correcting/disciplining (which of course is motivated out of love) I often sense a reminder of a similar situation with me & God & how it is because the Father loves me!

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 6/10/04

1 Thess 4:1-12, Psalm 10:12-18, Prov 3:9-10

1 Thess 4:1-12
v.1 - Please God in a living, spirited dance. Abound more & more.
v.11 - Mind your own affairs. Work with your hands.
v.12 - Be self supporting

v.3-5 Control,possess, manage your own body in purity & honor, not sexual vice, lust, immorality.

Psalm 10:12-18 David turns to intercession
PRAISE GOD! v.18 (MSG) "Orphans get parents, the homeless gets homes, the reign of terror is over, the rule of the gang lords is ended"
He's a Father to the fatherless, our shelter, our protection!

1 Cor 10:13 - God will never let you down

Eugene Petersen - "My security comes from whom God is, not from how I feel. Discipleship is a decision to live by what I know about God, not by what I feel about Him, myself, or my neighbours."

Proverbs 3:9,10

Honor the Lord with your own possessions, wealth, everything you own, and with the firstfruits of your increase, give Him your first & your best. Your barns will burst & be filled with plenty, and your vats will brim over, overflowing with new wine.

see Malachi 3:10 - If you honor God in this, He promises to open up heaven & pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 5/10/04

1 Thess 3, Psalm 10:1-11, Prov 3:7,8

1 Thess 3 - Accountability, Encouragement, Teamwork
John Maxwell says that accountability provides a cure.

CURE = Correction, Updates, Reminders, Encouragement

Paul couldn't return even if he wanted to. he might have been killed. He sent one of his team - Timothy, who was a great encouragement (v.2)

Team Leaders -Isn't it great to have a team that you can count on & call upon at any moment?!

Team members - Are you "always on" so that you are ready when called upon? (Donna Crouch has a great message on this attitude)

Psalm 10:1-11

It may feel that God is afar off & not interested but more than likely that is perception (which is powerful) due to circumstance & it's time to stir up the faith within. Sometimes this is easier said than done. It comes to mind that here is the importance of keeping in the Word, wise counsel & awesome fellowship, etc to keep stirred up & encouraged.

Also to encourage others just like Timothy in the 1 Thess 3 reading.

Eugene Petersen - "the only mistake we can make when conflict, persecution, illness etc comes, is to think that God himself has somehow gotten bored looking after us, and has shifted His attention to some more exciting Christian, or has become disgusted with our meandering obedience and has decided to let us fend for ourselves for a little while. God’s interest in us does not wax and wane according to our spiritual temperature."

1 Cor 10:13 - God will never let you & I down

Proverbs 3:7,8

Surprise! You & I don't know it all!

Fear God, run to Him, worship Him

You will have healthy flesh & a glow

Your bones will vibrate with life & have strength. They will be moistened.

Renewed health, vitality, vigor & energy. (A promise worth grabbing onto today!)

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 4/10/04

JUDE, ISAIAH 53, ECCLESIASTES 9:16-18

Jude 4 - God's grace doesn't give us a licence to sin. How then should I respond to this grace?

Jude 23 - Hate the sin, love the sinner "tender with sinners, but not soft on sin" (MSG)

Interesting to note that Jude is writing to the church calling for radical faith & obedience.

Keep the faith - avoid

1. Unbelief (5)
2. Disobedience (6)
3. Immorality (7)

Isaiah 53 - the ultimate sacrifice, God's rescue plan foretold, the exchanged life

Have you & I accepted the ENTIRE gift that Jesus purchased for us?

Think of what that would be like. His strength, security, solid emotions, forgiveness, reconciliation, salvation, health, wholeness, peace.................

v.5 - "He took the punishment & that made us whole" (MSG)

Ecclesiastes 9:16-18

Wisdom is better than muscle, strength, might (v.16), warheads & weapons of war (v.18)

v.17 - Listen to wise people who speak quietly, not people who rant & rave about foolish things

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 3/10/04

JOSHUA 6, PSALM 9:11-20, PROV 3:5-6

Joshua 6 - Joshua was obedient to God even if the command seemed absurd.

v.10 - Sometimes its best to keep your mouth shut until the right time to obtain victory (wisdom)

v.6 - take up the Ark of the Covenant (presence of God). Seek His presence.

v.27 - Joshua had favour with God & man.

v.25 - Rahab was spared according to the promise in Joshua 2:14

Psalm 9:11-20
SELAH - worth pondering in light of an election next weekend, considering an entire nation & its leadership.
v.15 - Lord, let that not be Australia!

Prov 3:5-6 Maxwell calls this the irony of spiritual leadership. In Prov 2:1-5 we are told to get understanding & wisdom & now are told not to lean on it apart from the Lord.
How should we think then?

• Think big - God's vision is usually bigger than ours
• Think of others
• Think continually-don't be satisfied with today's answers
• Think bottomline - results & fruit
• Think continual growth - keep improving
• Think without lines - let God outside of the box
• Think victory - we want God's rule to come to the earth
• Think intuitively - have a sense of what will work
• Think servanthood - serve & add value to people
• Think quickly - evaluate & see possible answers

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 2/10/04

Joshua 5, Psalm 9:1-10, Prov 3:1-4

Joshua was obedient.
v.12 - the manna ceased because they were positioned for permanent blessing
v.6 - " a land flowing with milk & honey"

v.15 - The army commander of the Lord (Prince of the Lord's host) told Joshua to take off his sandals for the place where he stood was holy ground (compare Exodus 3:5)

Host = angelic army. Lord of the Hosts = God of the angelic armies.
King of Glory (Psalm 24:10)

Old custom of Israel - removing sandal is a part of an official matter taking place (Ruth 4:7)

what followed? Moses - Israel's deliverance, Joshua - Jericho
(I am sure that it takes more than us taking off our Grosby's to be successful, or does it (metaphorically)?)
OBEDIENCE TO GOD = SUCCESS (more obedience equations below)

Psalm 9:1-10 Declare this just as David did. Say it out loud.
v.10 - The Lord has not forsaken those that seek Him.
Luke 11:10 - He who seeks finds.
Luke 12:31 - Seek His Kingdom.

Psalm 9:9-10 (MSG) - "God's a safe house for the battered, a sanctuary during bad times. The moment you arrive, you relax, you're never sorry you knocked."

Prov 3:1-4
v.1,2 (Compare Joshua's obedience)
OBEDIENCE TO GOD=LONG LIFE + PEACE(NKJV)
PROSPERITY(NIV)
A LIFE LIVED FULL & WELL(MSG)
TRANQUILITY(AMP)

v.3,4 - Live a life of mercy & truth and you will find favour with God & man! SELAH

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 1/10/04

JOSHUA 4, PSALM 8, PROV 2:16-22

Joshua 4 - Memorial Stones.
John Maxwell says "a legacy for the next generation". He also states "Good leaders provide "handles" like these to enable their people to grab onto the vision".

WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU & I LEAVING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION?

As I think of this I recall a song by Mortification called "Jehovah Nissi", which mentions a memorial book (or scroll)....see Exodus 17:14
Luke 22:19 - Jesus said to have communion in remembrance of Him.
Is this why we need memorials? hmmm....
Ecclesiastes 1:11 (MSG) - "Nobody remembers what happened yesterday, and the things that will happen tomorrow? Nobody'll remember them either. Don't count on being remembered."

Psalm 8: Maxwell - Identity. A balanced perspective of God's role & the leader's role.

1. David sees his own weakness & humanity (v.3,4) He realises that man accounts for a small part of the univers & that keeps him humble
2. David sees his God given position & privileges (v.5-8) God put humans in charge of the whole world & gave them authority over creation (see Genesis 1:28)
3. David gives glory to God (v.1,9)

Proverbs 2:16-22 Wisdom

v.18 - Being with an immoral woman leads to death. Be wise. One night of pleasure ain't worth a lifetime of pain.

v.21 - The upright dwell in the land. Blessing, permanence, occupation, fruit that remains, blessed to be a blessing to others.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 30/9/04

1 Thess 2, Psalm 7:11-17, Prov 2:10-15

1 Thess 2 - Maxwell's Law of Connection: Paul mentors his children

• v.7 - nurtured
• v.8 - shared Gospel & lives
• v.9 - worked hard not to burden with needs
• v.10 - be an example
• v.11 - dealings like a father with his children
• v.12 - encouragement

It's all about people! v.19 - "For what is our hope.....is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?"

Note to self - check heart motivation, do not seek the approval of man (v.4,6)

Psalm 7:11-17

v.16 - "His trouble shall return upon his own head"

Galatians 6:7 - "A man reaps what he sows"

Prov 2:10-15

v.12 - Wisdom delivers you from the man who speaks perverse things. Get out of the presence of ungodly counsel (Psalm 1) & speakers of perverse things.

Unpacking my shield?

For those reading my thoughts/notes of READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE, know that I have been getting drawn to the references to "shield" in the readings, particularly in the context of God having our backs (protection)...so thought I should go deeper into it as it was exciting my spirit - here goes ----->

Definition:

1. A broad piece of armor made of rigid material and strapped to the arm or carried in the hand for protection against hurled or thrusted weapons.

2. A person or thing that provides protection.

References from RTPL so far in this context - Psalm 3:3, Psalm 5:12, Prov 2:7

• The Lord told Abram in Genesis 15:1 "I am your shield"
• God was Jacob's shield in Deuteronomy 32:10
• He shielded Benjamin all day long (Deut 33:12)
• He is Israel's shield (Deut 33:29)

God definitely has the back of his people. I need to rest in that I know.

Ephesians 6:16 - "take up the shield of faith"

1 Peter 1:5 - "through faith shielded by God's power"

There is more on this in the Word I am sure....more to come! Comments welcome, I would love to learn more.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 29/9/04

1 Thessalonians 1, Psalm 7:1-10, Prov 2:6-9

1 Thess 1 - Maxwell's Law of Reproduction: Paul trains leaders by mail.
v.5 - not just words, but demonstration. Train with conviction. Training is remembered when the life of the trainer supports the message.
v.6 - training is incarnated when the follower imitates the trainer, training is relevant when done in the midst of problems.
v.7,8 - training is complete when the trainee becomes a trainer
v.8 - training has been reproduced when the original trainer has no need to say more

I recall this quote as I read this today..."Discipling Disciple Makers, Reproducing Reproducers, Fathering Fathers".....think generationally too

Psalm 7:1-10 You would need to have integrity to pray that confidently.
v.3 - "if I have done this, if there is iniquity in my hands"
v.8 - "judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness, and according to my integrity within me"
I need a daily wash, both natural & spiritual

Prov 2:6-9 Wisdom

• God gives it (v.6) "You do not have because you do not ask" PRAY, ASK
• He has stored wisdom for the upright (v.7) ............so I need to be upright!

Isn't it cool how the Psalm & Proverb readings go hand in hand! Integrity is jumping off the pages today

There's another "shield" reference today (Prov 2:7) ....it keeps grabbing my attention & exciting my spirit, I sure have to dig deeper on that word & go for gold.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 28/9/04

COLOSSIANS 4, PSALM 6, PROV 2:1-5

Colossians 4 - Maxwell: Paul was addressing relationships. Leadership is about relationships.

• Leaders can impress others from a distance (requires the will of the leader)
• Leaders can influence if they get a bit closer (requires the will of followers)
• Leaders can impact others only in close relationships (requires leaders, followers, intimacy & trust)

About praying - Col 4:2 - "Continue earnestly in prayer", Col 4:3 - "praying also for us" (pray for others)

My speech - Col 4:6 - "Let your speech be with grace, seasoned with salt" Prayer focus

Psalm 6 - David was human, revealed his weaknesses, emotions, anxieties. He was transparent & vulnerable, even though he was a "man after God's own heart" (Acts 13:22) - Maxwell

Prov 2:1-5 John Maxwell talks about Desire. What do we want? Why? How badly? Passage obviously talks about wisdom too. Desire wisdom. Psalm 37:4

Seek wisdom, receive, treasure, incline your ear, apply your heart, cry out, lift up your voice

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 27/9/04

JOSHUA 3, PSALM 5, PROV 1:24-33

Joshua 3:1 - Joshua rose early in the morning

v.4 - "you have not passed this way before" IT'S A NEW THING!

v.13 - Waters don't part until your feet get wet. God wants our partnership & participation.

PSALM 5 - Prayer for guidance
v.12 - Shield reference again (see Psalm 3:3) GOD HAS MY BACK!

Might do a word study on "shield" hmmm....

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 26/9/04

JOSHUA 2, PSALM 4, PROV 1:20-23

Joshua 2 - Maxwell's Law of Influence. God used Rahab, God can use anybody. There was no logical reason why Rahab should be considered to help the spies.

• She had no position or official title in the city
• Women were considered lower class citizens
• As a prostitute, she had an even lower class

Psalm 4:8 - there's that promise of sweet sleep again! (like Psalm 3:5)

Prov1:21 - Wisdom cries out at the gate of the city.....does this link with Joshua 2?

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 25/9/04

JOSHUA 1, PSALM 3, PROV 1:8-9

Repeated command - "Be strong & of good courage" v. 6,7,9,18
Repeated so I think worth noting....writer was making a point

Psalm 3:5 - Pray for these sort of nights

Psalm 3:3 - Shield. I like what Brian Houston said about this - God has our back!

Prov 1:10-19 - Avoid ungodly counsel (like Psalm 1)

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 24/9/04

Colossians 3, Psalms 2:7-12, Prov 1:5-7

Col 3:1-14 Maxwell talks about self discipline - the battle begins in the mind.
v.1 - A new position needs a new perspective
v.2 - Renew your thought life
v.3-7 Recognise your old life is dead
v. 8-11 Release past habits
v.12-24 Replace them with new ones

Psalm 2:8 - "ASK of me & I WILL give you the nations for your inheritance & the ends of the earth for your possession"

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 23/9/04

Colossians 2, Psalm 2:1-6, Proverbs 1:3-4

Ephesians 6:12 - We wrestle against principalities & powers
Col 2:10 - Christ is the head of all principalities & powers
Col 2:15 - Christ disarmed the principalities & powers, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

I never saw that link before today! How cool is that! I need to grab onto that.

READ>THINK>PRAY>LIVE 22/9/04

Starting a daily bible reading plan today with many others in cyberspace on Phil Baker's blog http://philbaker.net Great idea cos we can basically have a cell in cyberspace & share our revelations & any commentaries we are reading & encourage one another - well here it goes......

Colossians 1, Psalm 1, Prov 1:1,2
Col 1:4-10 John Maxwell states that this is about teachability. Paul encouraged readers to be lifelong learners. You are teachable if you are changing.
Col 1:13-20 Maxwell's Law of Respect. Paul was a strong leader but Jesus is superior.

Psalm 1 - Maxwell's Law of the Inner Circle. Be careful where you get your counsel. Very important point!

Prayer focus - Col 1:11 "strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy"