Friday, June 6th Success – Do It Like David Did

1 Samuel 30: 6 “David was greatly distressed…But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.”

As we continue to look at this idea of biblical success, there isn’t any way around the issues of aggravation, frustration and depression. As God continues to move you from one level to another level there will certainly be new devils. So how do we handle the aggravation, frustration and depression on our way to the next level?

"When life gives you a lemon, just make lemonade”…we’ve all heard that but we all know that it is easier said than done. That’s a great way to face life’s hurts and disappointments. Though it is not healthy to be pessimistic, it is wise to realize you can’t change some things.

Even the best of well-ordered plans on our way to biblical success – don’t always work out the way we’ve planned them.

It might be that when you have done your best and given your all that someone will find something wrong with it or negative to say about it. Your good intentions could possibly be misunderstood. Or, you might sometime find yourself facing unkind people, unfaithful friends and undeserved critics – for whatever reason.

We all care about what people say and think about us. The question is do we care more about what people say about us than we do with what God says. There comes a time in everybody’s life that you have to make the decision to live your life for the King of kings and the Lord of lords! Let haters hate, let gossipers gossip and let talkers talk – YOU JUST DO YOU!

I know it get hard even when you do things right. So what do I do when I’m facing tough days, emotions and critics…Rest in the Strength of the Lord, just like David did. When you do God will overshadow you with His Love, His Mercy, His Strength, His Power and His Encouragement.

God has a plan for your life and discovering it is only the first step – you then have to be disciplined enough to see it through. Next time you feel like giving up or throwing in the spiritual towel – REST IN THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD JUST LIKE DAVID DID!

Thursday, June 5th Success – Things That REALLY Count

Do you consider yourself religious? Paul remembered the time when he was religious but he was lost. When God saved him, he discovered that in spite of his religion and legalism, he was bankrupt, blind and bound for hell. Not only did this truth change his life but he wanted it to change every person's life who counts religion as righteousness. Philippians 3:1-9 teaches us what we need to do to get our priorities straight.

The Bankruptcy Of The Religious Man
Paul took pride in his rituals, relationships, respectability, race, religion, and reputation and he discovered it was all bankrupt. Paul was proud of his rituals, including circumcision, which he had experienced to attain his religious status.

Paul took pride in his relationship with "the stock of Israel" - God's chosen people the Jews - and yet he was lost. The only relationship that will save you and I is the one we have through our Savior Jesus Christ!

The third way Paul could have had confidence in his flesh was in his respectability. Not only was he a circumcised Jew but he was also from the tribe of Benjamin. He had a family name and a family tradition to boost his worldly credentials.

The next description that Paul gives us about himself is his race. He said he was "a Hebrew of the Hebrews." That meant that his bloodline was clear of any interracial blood. Thankfully, God saves men, women, and children from every tribe, tongue and nation.

Another character quality (or should I say flaw) in which Paul could have taken pride was his religion. He said, "as touching the law, a Pharisee." The Pharisees were the strictest sect of the Jews.

And then there was the pride of reputation. Nobody in Paul's day could point a finger of blame at him. Now, he was not sinless. He was blameless in the eyes of men, but he was not sinless in the eyes of God.

The Blessedness of the Redeemed Man
The things that Paul counted as loss were not bad in and of themselves, they were mostly good. But a good thing is a bad thing if it keeps you from the best thing. The worse form of badness is human goodness when human goodness becomes a substitute for the new birth.

When Paul ceased from relying upon himself for salvation and turned to Jesus Christ, he found three things: a knowledge of Christ, a fellowship with Christ, and the righteousness of Christ.

A Knowledge Of Christ
Paul considered the knowledge of Christ to surpass anything he could ever attain on his own. But this isn't knowledge as in gaining information. Here, Paul used it to describe spiritual intimacy between himself and God.

Knowledge is more than just what we think inside our heads, it is what we experience in our heart in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Do you know Him? I mean really know Him? Not that Jesus died and rose again for people to be saved...but that He died and rose again for you to be saved and have an everlasting relationship with God.

A Fellowship with Christ
Paul said that he wanted to "be found in Him." Before Paul's conversion, he had religion. After his salvation, Paul had a relationship - the most important being the one he had with his Savior Jesus Christ.

I want to tell you that Jesus Christ is a wonderful friend. You don't have to say a word - just knowing He is there is enough. And knowing He loves you will bring inexpressible joy to your heart.

A Righteousness of Christ
The closer Paul drew to God, the greater his awareness of his own filthiness and need of the righteousness of Christ. Without the imputation of Christ's righteousness into our lives, we would have no relationship whatsoever with God. Paul understood this.

Our righteousness does not come by works. It is an imputed righteousness (see Romans 4:21-25). Imputed means to place on your account. It's like going to a department store and instead of telling them you want to charge your purchase; you tell them you want to impute it. It means the same thing - to put on your account.

When God looks at the ledger of our lives, He sees red - not in a bad way, but a good way. He sees the red, righteous, royal blood of His Son credited to our account and we are declared righteous before Him!

Wednesday, June 4th Success - A Life Overflowing

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water John 7:37-38

Do you consider your life stagnant or would you consider it overflowing? Perhaps it's time to stop enduring religion and start enjoying a relationship. You'll find then you will not just merely become a reservoir, but become a river. How does Jesus address this issue and what does He say about how to accomplish this?

The Well Of Salvation.

Jesus watched as the Jews celebrated one of their great feasts, the Feast of Tabernacles. At the climax of the festivities, the priest went down to the pool of Siloam and filled a golden pitcher with water. The people followed him leaping and dancing as the priest came back to the temple, he poured the water on the altar.

• They didn't realize that this Old Testament ceremony prophesied the Lord Jesus. In fact, Jesus Christ Himself was that Well of salvation, yet they were paying no attention to Him. In their midst was the very Water of Life, but they were too busy going through their ritual and religion to notice.

Jesus saw the ceremony and their ecstasy, but He knew it was only a ritual and religious exercise. Jesus knew after it was over-they would go back to their homes, and it would all be a memory. He could contain Himself no more, and He stood and literally shouted, "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink."

The Well Of Life

Today, as then, we don't need religion; we need a personal, vital relationship with Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

• When Jesus stood up and cried, He said to them what He's saying to you, "Are you thirsty? Come to Me and drink." It is time we stopped enduring religion and started enjoying salvation.

It's amazing how many people today try to find their own answers. Some look for answers intellectually. Others look for answers in activity by working harder. Others search for an emotional experience but find they need more each time. Still others look for answers as the Pharisees did - in the way they live - primarily noted by what they don't do.

The Well Of The Thirsty

To find a relationship with Jesus, examine what He said, "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink." To whom not just empty, but thirsty.¾Jesus is speaking? He's speaking to thirsty people
• There are people who go to church on Sunday morning, but they don't go seeking God. I don't know how much of God you have, but you have all you want. You don't have more because you don't want more. Pray that God would give you a burning, blistering thirst, so that you would say, "I'm done with religion. I want reality. I am thirsty today for what is real!"
You also need to understand the source of that filling is Jesus - He was talking about Himself. Don't wait until you are better or stronger. You'll be like a man in quicksand. The more you struggle, the deeper you sink. Don't work your way to Him - He is the Way.

Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness. Bring Him your weaknesses, fears, failures, and heartaches. Jesus throws open His arms to you today and says, "Are you thirsty? Come to me."

Come And Drink

Not only do you come, you must drink - by faith. Many come to this point but stop.

• They say, "Yes, Christ is the answer," but they never really believe. Somehow they get it in the margins of their Bibles, in their notebooks, or in their heads; but they fail to get it in their hearts. Don't let that happen to you! You must drink, and you do it by faith. There comes a time when we need to believe Him and say, "My heart is thirsty for the blessing. I will receive the Lord Jesus. I take Him by faith."

Don't come so close, yet miss Him. Stop enduring religion, and start enjoying a relationship. Come and drink from the Living Water. Once you drink, there will be in you a river of living water. And when the river begins to flow out of you, there will be life where there once was death. There will be fruitfulness where there was barrenness. The Holy Spirit in your life will cause you to be a blessing and to receive a blessing.

Tuesday, June 3rd Success…God’s Way

Success God's way is determined as we pursue the will of God. Steven Olford, founder and lecturer of the Stephen Olford Institute for Biblical Preaching, said "it is our duty and it is our joy to find, to follow and to finish the will of God for our lives."

The first step in discovering success is to express a FULL DEPENDENCE on the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

Why do we find it difficult to trust the Lord? One reason is that we don't know Him well enough to trust Him. To know God is to love God. Then to love Him, is to trust Him. To trust Him, is to obey Him. And to obey Him, is to be blessed.

Another problem we have is that we can't let go of the situation for which we need to trust God. We want to do it ourselves. But, in order to be successful, we must turn everything over to Him. If He's worth part of it, He's worth all of it.

Let me say one final thing on this point. Don't be afraid of the will of God. But, what if He sends me to a remote village in a foreign country as a missionary? If He sends you there, then that's exactly where you'd want to be. Philippians 2:13 says “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”

When you fully depend upon the Lord, then He will provide FAITHFUL DIRECTION. The last part of Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “He shall direct thy paths.” Either that's true or that's false.
Now, how will He direct your path?

First, He'll do it through His Word (see Psalm 119:105). The Word of God will show you the will of God.

Second, God will direct you through prayer (see Philippians 4:6-7). Not every question is answered in the Bible. Prayer is a two-way street. Let God talk to you.

Third, God will direct you by His providence. God closes doors and opens doors (see Revelation 3:8).

Now, let me close with this final word on success. When you fully depend upon the Lord, and He gives you direction, there will be a FORCEFUL DYNAMIC. Let's review the last phrase of Proverbs 3:6 one final time: "direct thy paths." This literally means that God will bulldoze a path in front of you. Not only does God show the way, but He also clears the way.

Henry Moorehouse, a stirring evangelist years ago, had a little girl who was crippled. When at home, she would lay her crutches aside and scoot around on the floor. One day after returning from a long trip, Moorehouse stepped inside his house and found his little girl sitting near the door.

She noticed he was carrying a big present and said, "Daddy, let me carry it to Momma." He tried to convince her she couldn't carry the present and take it to her mother, but she wouldn't give in. Finally he said, "Alright, here take it." She held it in her arms and said, "Now Daddy pick me up and take me to Momma."

Has God done that for you? He has carried me many times when He has given me a message, then picked me up and carried me through it. When you fully depend upon the Lord, He will direct your life, and He will be the driving force behind your success.

Family Discussion Question: Your success and the success of your family depends on you learning how to depend upon the Lord, faithfully follow His direction and He will be a driving force in order to secure your successful future. What is standing in the way of your greatest step toward your destiny? Spend time praying as a family for His direction.

Greater Bethel Church Is A GREAT CHURCH

I really don't have word to express how awesome today has been for me. The entire family was there the level of excitement was at an all time high, it was simply breath taking. Starting with Sunday morning...now that's how people who know God ought to have church. We literally shut-down NE 23rd Street as we convoyed to our new location. And the celebration was wonderful. It was the who-who list which shouldn't be over looked those state and city official came as a testimony of who and what we've have became as a church. It is not everyday that you can command a group of dignitaries like that in one place.

I want to ask that you will join me as we continue to "build THE church while building A church!" You're growth is our goal and we will hold it as our highest achievement as long as God allows me to lead the Greater Bethel Church Family. I love you!

The previous post is Monday's devotion!

Monday, June 2nd Four Qualities of Highly Successful People

“If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed but skill will bring success.” Eccles. 10:10 (NIV)

John Maxwell, author of more than 30 leadership books and popular international speaker, spoke to 500 people at an Abilene Christian University luncheon Tuesday regarding the four things highly successful people do well.

Maxwell was the last of eight presenters in ACU's Centennial Speaker Series, which also included "Good Morning America" co-anchor Robin Roberts, long-time sports commentator Pat Summerall, and MSNBC co-anchor Lester Holt.

First, Maxwell said, people who are highly successful are good at building relationships and have a way of getting along with people.

"Good relationship skills are the foundation of both leadership and success," he said. "Successful people relate emotionally, spiritually and intellectually with others."

He said both in the workplace and in their homes, people need to understand and practice the hammer principle: "never use a hammer to swat a fly off someone's forehead." In other words, don't overreact.

The second quality of highly successful people is that they equip, train and develop people, Maxwell said.

"Successful people understand that for their success to compound, it must include others," he said. "They must have the ability to gain buy-in. One is too small a number to achieve greatness."

The third quality is attitude. "Successful people have an uncommon attitude, especially about adversity," Maxwell explained. "It's not that they have fewer problems than less successful people; they just have the tenacity to work through obstacles and problems."

Maxwell added that "attitude is not everything, but it is the main thing – the difference maker. However, a great attitude cannot make up for incompetence."

Fourth, Maxwell said, “highly successful people are good leaders. They have a vision, and they understand that leadership is about influence – not title or position.

"People can lead wherever they are in the organization," he said. "They can lead up, across and down."

He encouraged individuals to prepare for future leadership opportunities now. He quoted his friend, longtime UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, who says, "When the opportunity comes, it's too late to prepare."

Family Discussion Question: What has God promised to do for you? Write down an idea or thought. Maybe you have a dream of business ownership, a pending marriage, strenghting a present marriage or simply getting out of debt. Whatever it is write it down and discuss it with family. Then touch and agee in prayer.

Remember: “Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26 (NIV)

Friday, May 30th AN ABEL FAITH

"By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead." Heb 11:4 (NIV)

The best way to learn faith is from people. Why? Because faith is not so much a matter of what you know as of who you are, it's built not out of knowledge but out of relationships. Take Abel, the first faithful man. Three things happened to him because he had faith. They each point out how faith will affect our lives.

Faith affected his generosity. “He offered a better sacrifice.” What was better about Abel’s sacrifice? Cain offered but Abel offered his best. Faith adds up to a willingness to give your best to the Lord. You can trust Him with it!

Faith affected his relationships. “He was commended as righteous by God.” Righteous is a word about relationships, it points to being in right relationship with God. Preschoolers define it as being God's friend. Faith gave Abel a commendation for his relationship with God.

Faith affected his influence. “He still speaks” The most powerful tool you have for influencing this world is your faith. Why so powerful? Because actions and decisions based upon faith simply last longer. Cain may have cut Abel’s life short, but Abel’s faith still speaks! Want to make an impact? Seminars can sharpen your skills and organization can improve your opportunities and principles can enhance your planning... but it's all a drop in the bucket without faith. If you're mathematically minded: Impact = (Skills + Organization + Planning + “Whatever”) x Faith. Great skills times no faith equals zero impact. A few skills multiplied by a great faith adds up to incredible impact.

Family discussion question: Where could you “offer your best” to the Lord right now in one specific way?
Children’s activity: Have your children take an offering to church tonight or tomorrow. Put it in an envelope, on which they write (or write with them) “My best for the Lord”.

Thursday, May 29 True Dedication

With the excitement building around our upcoming ground-breaking celebration this weekend this is a great devotional. I can sense that God has begun to build THE church, while we build a church and I can’t wait to see US when He is done with us. Some of you right now are experiencing things that are unexpected but know that God is in control and is still on the throne. This weekend is going to be awesome! This may sound like I'm repeating myself and it's because I am. “So the king and all the Israelites dedicated the temple of the LORD." 1 Kings 8:63 (NIV)

What do we mean when we say dedication? To one person it may mean giving up a part of a football game to come to church on Sunday mornings, to another it may point to a decision to begin giving some of their money to the Lord's work, while to another it may add up to leaving all that they know to serve the Lord as a missionary in a foreign country. What does it mean to dedicate a temple, a church, a child... a life - to dedicate them to the Lord. In I Kings 8 Solomon dedicates the great Jerusalem Temple to the Lord, and in so doing teaches us some important lessons about the character of dedication.

Dedication means Open Declaration

Dedication is a public announcement of your intentions and commitments. Many see dedication as some inner commitment that no one can really see or understand. Not true... it is expressed in public commitments and public actions. Do you know when dedication begins to happen? When you begin to place your faith on the line in terms of public commitments. It's that willingness to declare to others that adds up to dedication.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship." Rom 12:1 (NIV)
Dedication means Sacrifice

They sacrificed an unbelievable amount that day! 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. That's a lot of T-bone steak and legs of lamb! Why? What could be the purpose of such sacrifices? What did sacrifices do for men that were so important to the Lord? Sacrifices are “A gift of trust to the Lord.” As they sacrificed they declared that they trusted God to take care of their needs. They were saying, “Instead of hoarding and declaring my trust in myself, I’ll give to you Lord to declare my trust in you.”

Dedication will inevitably involve some sacrifices. Sacrifice is ultimately an expression of trust in the Lord. You're willing to give something up because you trust Him more then that something.

Dedication means Praise

A significant part of dedication is praise to God. Solomon’s praise as he dedicated the temple centered on the fact that God had kept His promise. There is a specific praise that not only expresses, but actually increases our dedication to the Lord. The specific praise that grows our dedication is "Thank You Lord for your Faithfulness.” It is a praise that recognizes that all that we have comes as a result of God's promises to us... as a result of His faithfulness in our lives.

That type of praise recognizes that I can be dedicated to God because God is dedicated to me! He is dedicated to my joy, my peace, my growth. God has dedicated Himself to my personal happiness and fulfillment. How dedicated is He? "He who did not spare His own Son, how He not also along with Him will freely give us all things." (Romans 8:32)

"Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven and said: "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below--you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way." 1 Kings 8:22-23 (NIV)

Dedication means praise and sacrifice and open declaration. Today we learn one final truth about dedication from King Solomon

Dedication means Ministry

We cannot be dedicated to God without being dedicated to meeting the needs of the people He has made. Solemn dedicated this temple to the needs of the disappointed, depressed and the defeated, those besieged by sin and by loneliness, those involved in the battles and the prisons of life.

Too many make dedication the most impractical of things. It could never be lived, only talked about. Theirs is a dedication made up of myths and fables pie in the sky and dreams.

If you're striving to become more dedicated to the Lord it doesn't take you long to discover that there is a whole subculture in the Christian Community which says dedication is made up of spiritual sounding words, religion and rutuals. Dedication is built out of trusting God with the practical needs of your everyday life.

Dedication is expressed in ministry. It is expressed in what you choose to DO with your life to serve the Lord and the heart to serve the people He has made.

Family Discussion Question: What sacrifice would REALLLLLY stretch your dedication? Can you think of one simple ministry your family could do this week?

Children’s activity: Do a simple ministry project with your children this week. (Write a card to encourage someone, make cookies for somebody, go out an do something for someone who could never do anything for you in return or _________________________ you fill in the blank.)

Wednesday May 28 - FAITH’S FINAL EXAM

"Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people." Acts 6:8 (NIV)

Know how to recognize a priceless person? Just look at their price tag! You can see what a person is worth by looking at what it takes to buy them off. I wonder how you and I would do if we had to face “faith’s final exam.” It is an exam that only a few Christians down through the ages have had to face. It is a test that has only one soul searching question.

Stephen faced this test when he was being judged for his faith in Acts 6. Faith’s final exam is “Would I be willing to give up my life for what I believe?” We sing about giving our all to Jesus and tell Him that we’d offer our very life for him. But what if the threats were real? It’s an important test, for your attitude towards dying for your faith has much to say about how you’ll live your faith!

Take a look at Stephen, for example. He showed himself to be a priceless person, a person who would not back down in his faith no matter what the threat. Stephen became the first Christian to actually die for his faith. What was the secret to such a great faith? Acts 6 tells us that Stephen lived as a man “full of faith and the Holy Spirit.” He had answered faith’s final exam long before he faced the court that would condemn him. When our children where growing up we often didn’t family night that included a short bible illustrated lesson. One even we taught the kids that we’re all like tubes of toothpaste. When the squeeze is put on us what comes out is whatever we’re full of! This means that we don’t have to “cram” for the tests of faith. Let Christ fill your heart and mind, your decisions and actions... today!

Family Discussion Question: Where do you need to be “full of faith” today?
For younger children: Make up some “price tags” to show the real value of some of the things in your home. Have your kids tell you how much things like furniture and appliances are worth...make up a tag and put it on those things. Then, ask them to put a price tag on a Bible.... then on themselves. Remind them of the incalculable value of the Bible, of the tremendous value God places on them.

Deepening Your Family Devotional Experience During Time2Build

Dear Bethel Builders,

I’m excited about this journey (Time2Build campaign) and I hope you are as well. After this past weekend’s experience I know God is going to use this time to build our faith corporately and individually.

As promised the previous post is today’s devotion but in order to deepen our family devotional experience here is a few simple suggestions…

1. Choose a consistent time and place. Whether it’s at breakfast around the table or in your children’s rooms just before bedtime, having devotions at the same time and same place is the best way to be consistent. Choose the best time for your family and then don’t worry if you miss a day here or there.

2. Have different family members read the Scripture and devotion each day. This will give everyone a feeling that they’re a part of deciding to have family devotions.

3. After reading the devotions, take a minute to pray together. Talk to God about the needs in your family... the church...the world... your friends... those who need to find Christ... your work... your school...etc.

4. Be yourselves! It’s O.K. to laugh. Noise is not only allowable during devotions...it is a must. Let your children be themselves during times of devotion it’s amazing how much more they learn.

“You must love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and might. And you must think constantly about these commandments I am giving you today. You must teach them to your children and talk about them when you are at home or out for a walk; at bedtime and the first thing in the morning.” Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (TLB)

Tuesday May 26 - FAITH IS LIVING BEYOND THE ROUTINE

"What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead." Heb 11:1 (TLB)

Faith is the secret to “rut free living.”

We all know what it’s like to live in a rut. Too often what starts with great promise settles into a lifelong habit of routine. A couple gets married - yet somehow a promise of lifelong love turns into habit and routine. A business gets started - but before long the dream turns into a grind. A fresh and real commitment to Christ is made - yet you find yourself settling for the average life rather than the abundant life. Faith makes the difference! Faith helps us to handle the two main things that might push us into the rut of routine...

Life’s disappointments...
Disappointment can make us feel, “I guess that’s all there is... I’ll have to learn to settle for less.” Faith energizes us to look past our disappointments and to see God’s promises.

Life’s successes...
Disappointments can make us bitter... success can make us self-satisfied. A little success can be a dangerous thing! Faith has the power not only to help us with our struggles, but also our successes. Faith puts success in perspective. It reminds me that I’m not the source of the success - it is God who has given these gifts to me. It also helps me to see that I’m not the reason for the success. Of course, God is pleased with my happiness. But the ultimate reason for all He does in our lives is to show the world what He is like... to bring glory to Himself.

Family Discussion Question: Is disappointment or is success the greater challenge in your life right now?

Children’s activity: Show your children how “ingrained” a routine can become by having an “unroutine” day: Have everyone sit at different places when you eat or watch T.V... or sleep with your head at the foot of your bed. You come up with ideas.... have fun with this!

Friday, May 23rd Faith "True Dedication" Pt. 2

Good Morning Bethel Builders,

As promised here is our daily devotional reading for today and I'm praying for your family time today.

"Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven and said: "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below--you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way." 1 Kings 8:22-23 (NIV)

Dedication means praise and sacrifice and open declaration. Today we learn one final truth about dedication from King Solomon

Dedication means Ministry
We cannot be dedicated to God without being dedicated to meeting the needs of the people He has made. Solemn dedicated this temple to the needs of the disappointed, depressed and the defeated, those besieged by sin and by loneliness, those involved in the battles and the prisons of life.

Too many make dedication the most impractical of things. It could never be lived, only talked about. Theirs is a dedication made up of myths and fables pie in the sky and dreams.

If you're striving to become more dedicated to the Lord it doesn't take you long to discover that there is a whole subculture in the Christian Community which says dedication is made up of spiritual sounding words, religion and rutuals. Dedication is built out of trusting God with the practical needs of your everyday life.

Dedication is expressed in ministry. It is expressed in what you choose to DO with your life to serve the Lord and the heart to serve the people He has made.

Family Discussion Question: Can you think of one simple ministry your family could do this week?

Children’s activity: Do a simple ministry project with your children this week. (Write a card to encourage someone, make cookies for somebody, go out an do something for someone who could never do anything for you in return or _________________________ you fill in the blank.)

Welcome Family

Welcome to my blog this has been used for personal reason since its conception but during our 28 days of fasting and prayer earlier this year those that partnered with us were able to join me through this media. Now I’ve invited the entire church…as we now begin another spiritual growth campaign called “Time2Build…Building the Church while Building a Church!” I’ve been working hard to get this brand new, hot off the press family devotional guide that will help deepen our experience as a church during this campaign. Each day I will post a new daily devotional for you to use in your daily family time.

The way this will work is, each week I will share a message during our weekend worship experience that will tie into that week daily devotionals. This is a very exciting time for our church and we’re believing God for miracles, spiritual growth, and unspeakable joy! Below is day one.

TRUE DEDICATION

“So the king and all the Israelites dedicated the temple of the LORD." 1 Kings 8:63 (NIV)

What do we mean when we say dedication? To one person it may mean giving up a part of a football game to come to church on Sunday mornings, to another it may point to a decision to begin giving some of their money to the Lord's work, while to another it may add up to leaving all that they know to serve the Lord as a missionary in a foreign country. What does it mean to dedicate a temple, a church, a child... a life - to dedicate them to the Lord. In I Kings 8 Solomon dedicates the great Jerusalem Temple to the Lord, and in so doing teaches us some important lessons about the character of dedication.

Dedication means Open Declaration
Dedication is a public announcement of your intentions and commitments. Many see dedication as some inner commitment that no one can really see or understand. Not true... it is expressed in public commitments and public actions. Do you know when dedication begins to happen? When you begin to place your faith on the line in terms of public commitments. It's that willingness to declare to others that adds up to dedication.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship." Rom 12:1 (NIV)

Dedication means Sacrifice
They sacrificed an unbelievable amount that day! 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. That's a lot of T-bone steak and legs of lamb! Why? What could be the purpose of such sacrifices? What did sacrifices do for men that were so important to the Lord? Sacrifices are “A gift of trust to the Lord.” As they sacrificed they declared that they trusted God to take care of their needs. They were saying, “Instead of hoarding and declaring my trust in myself, I’ll give to you Lord to declare my trust in you.”

Dedication will inevitably involve some sacrifices. Sacrifice is ultimately an expression of trust in the Lord. You're willing to give something up because you trust Him more then that something.

Dedication means Praise
A significant part of dedication is praise to God. Solomon’s praise as he dedicated the temple centered on the fact that God had kept His promise. There is a specific praise that not only expresses, but actually increases our dedication to the Lord. The specific praise that grows our dedication is "Thank You Lord for your Faithfulness.” It is a praise that recognizes that all that we have comes as a result of God's promises to us... as a result of His faithfulness in our lives.

That type of praise recognizes that I can be dedicated to God because God is dedicated to me! He is dedicated to my joy, my peace, my growth. God has dedicated Himself to my personal happiness and fulfillment. How dedicated is He? "He who did not spare His own Son, how He not also along with Him will freely give us all things." (Romans 8:32)

Family Discussion Question: What sacrifice would REALLLLY stretch your dedication?

Dear Bethel Builders,

I can’t tell you how thrilled I am about our "Time2Build...Building the Church while Building a Church" spiritual growth campaign. WE HAVE BEGUN the building of our NEW WORSHIP CENTER. Simultaneously, we will launch a 90 day spiritual building campaign (building lives) and capital building campaign (raising capital). I know that many of you have questions and maybe some apprehension, but our goal is that you to feel confident and comfortable, so with that said we invite you to come out tomorrow afternoon from 6pm-7pm to answer any question you might have.

We realize you are busy people. However I feel this campaign is so important that I’m asking you to commit the next two months to allow God to pour into your life and build you up spiritually as we watch God build the church.

We are corporately praying these things over our entire church family that our spiritual growth campaign will?

1. To Help Us Grow To Spiritual Maturity!

2. To Deepen Our Fellowship As A Church Family!

3. To Help Everybody Find A Place Of Ministry!

4. To Worship God By Celebrating Him!

5. To Challenge Us To Get To Phase One Of Our Campus!

And we claiming the following promises?

1. You can expect to see some miracles.

2. You can expect to grow spiritually.

3. You can expect to be hassled by Satan.

4. You can expect to experience joy.

Tomorrow night Reminders 6-7pm question and answer period Bonds, Building and Campaign 7pm Prayer and Bible Study Children will Rehearses Wednesday due to holiday weekend

Sunday Church starts @9am (ONE SERVICE THIS WEEKEND) Mortgage Burning Ceremony

Dear Bethel Builders,

As we approach this weekend’s kick-off of our “Time2Build” Campaign, I simply want to cast the vision and deposit four things that you can begin to pray about.

What is our “Time 2 Build” Campaign all about?

1. IT’S TIME 2 BUILD SPIRITUAL MATURITY!
2. IT’S TIME 2 BUILD OUR NEW WORSHIP CENTER!
3. IT’S TIME 2 BUILD RELATIONSHIPS IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY!
4. IT’S TIME 2 BUILD A SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVING!

Join me in prayer tomorrow during our Midweek Experience. It’s going to be the greatest ride in the history of our church!

It’s Time2Build!
Pastor G

Our goal for in is $1,000,000 in total bond sales by our ground breaking ceremony. Get involved! We will announce the ground breaking ceremony date during this weekend’s experience. This event will be marked by a commemorative ground breaking t-shirt (full-color).

Please be in prayer for the following: Sister Rosie Jones, Sister Jerrion Cooper, Sister Lucille Kirklin, and Rev. Clyde Thomas. If you have prayer request please e-mail them to the staff or call our office and we will add your request to our list.

First Lady was name Woman of the month for May by Black Church Media. Check our First Lady at http://www.blackchurchmedia.com/

In God's Hands

God is a loving, kind and caring Father, who cares more about our character than our comfort. Over the last six months I've been challenged to stretch my faith and demonstrate where my trust lies. With the health condition of my mother, God has caused me to understand that I'm limited in how far I can go. I've had to walk away many, many times with no guarantees only with my faith and trust in God. God knows me because He created me, by nature I'm very independent and proud but God hates a proud spirit.

As a church family we've been praying and working for the past five years and now God has said 'Yes'. What a huge sense of responsibility, God has given us clearance to take-off. I often say that if you can do what you do without God its not God' will for you. I believe that there is a strong divine calling on our church corporately. He is going to use us in a way that has not yet fully been revealed. As we built the physical building we must build the spiritual building.

Life is a journey. Everyday has a new lesson attached to it. God has used life to teach me some of the toughest lesson but at the same time most profound lessons. The writer of Proverbs encourages us to "trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean no unto our own understanding..."

I am privilege to lead a awesome and great people. As I celebrated 25 years in ministry just hearing about life change makes it all worth it. To see our church step up and claim God's promises has been a great source of encouragement to me. The celebration was one for the records, the staff was outstanding. There was a level of excellent that weaves itself through everything that transpired. The preaching was powerful starting with Pastor Kelly R. Booker (New Union Baptist Church), then Pastor Ricky Patton (Holy United Baptist Church) and closing out was Pastor Jeffrey L. Mitchell (Tabitha Baptist Church).

Now its time to go back to work but I thank God for His unspeakeable gifts.

Wednesday Evening

Dear Family,

We have entered our building program finally God has been faithful and we’re truly blessed to be apart of what God is doing. 1 Kings 8:17-19 (NLT) says, “Then Solomon said, "My father, David, wanted to build this Temple to honor the name of the Lord, the God of Israel. [18] But the Lord told him, 'It is right for you to want to build the Temple to honor my name, [19] but you are not the one to do it. One of your sons will build it instead.” What the scripture is simply saying is that Solomon’s father King David desired to build a temple for God but God did not grant him that privilege, it was purposed for Solomon to build. God has given us this blessed opportunity to build a place for the Spirit of God to dwell.

On Sunday, May 18th we will Kick-off a new series of sermons called “Time2Build” Eccles. 3:1-3 (NIV) says “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…a time to build” We will focus on building the church [the people] while we build the church [the physical building].

We are planning now for our ground breaking ceremony [isn’t that awesome]!

Everyone’s attendance is vital Wednesday evening. We will begin at 6:30pm with prayer and it will be followed by our financial seminar about our bond program.

It’s Time 2 Build!
Pastor G

If you have your bond reservation you can meet with Mr. Weaver from 2pm-5pm tomorrow.

Announcement From The Staff of GBBC

We Will Continue Celebrating The 25th Year Anniversary Of Ministry Of Pastor G This Wednesday, April 30th at 7pm. Our guest church will be our friends from the Holy United Baptist Church and Pastor Ricky Patton will bring the message. Let your presence speak volumes to Pastor Wednesday evening and be here.

5 days until our Building Project Announcement. Pastor is asking that every member be in attendance to share in this historical announcement as God positions us for our corporate purpose. We will have an abbreviated service Sunday. We will start at 10:45am but will get to the preaching much earlier so that we will have plenty of time to make our announcement and not keep you any longer than customary. If you haven’t seen our construction boards, color board or interior design boards, all will be on display as well as a question and answer period.

Please call, text and email every member you know personally and ensure they are present Wednesday evening as well as Sunday morning. There will also be a reception for Pastor G at the Langston University OKC campus Saturday at 4pm. What an awesome time to be apart of the Kingdom of God and be connected to the Greater Bethel Church “where we do church beyond the box!”

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Expo Just hanging out to day, not too many Sundays that I'm no ministering. Downtown helping my brother Br

78th L K Williams Ministers Institute

I'm attending the 78th L K Williams Ministers Institute hosted by the Antioch Fellowship Dr.Karry Wesley, Senior Pastor. The Antioch Church has an awesome building, staff and technology. This is not the first time I've come in contact with is ministry. The first lady attended a women's conference here during the fall of 2007.

The institute has an list of gifted preachers and teachers:...
Dr. LK Curry Chicago IL
Dr. Denny Davis Grand Prairie TX
My friend Dr. HB Charles Los Angeles CA
Dr. Leroy Armstrong Cedar Hill TX
Dr. Al B Sutton Birmingham AL
Dr. A Louis Patterson Houston TX

The theme this year is "A Legacy of Ministry for an ever-changing World" taken from 2 Corinthians 4:5-7.

This has been a very enlighten week. I've been inspired and informed. I have really enjoyed my time away. It normally take several day in order to detoix myself from my overly excessive work habits. I realize that if I'm going to make it throughout the building program and ministry I have to learn how o withdraw.

A few days ago during a lecture that I was doing to a room full of leaders/Pastor. I had one of those moments where as I was preaching to them the Holy Spirit was talking to me. Many, many itemize (more than I would want to admit I was guilty and confession is good for the soul). I was teaching from the life of Jesus and was sharing that He knew when enough was enough speaking in reference to getting rest and taking time off. And if you're reading those blog you know I have some very deep issues with this particular area of my life. So I made a decision and commitment to make that a part of my life. Be in prayer for me in this area of my life.

Also my mom is still in the hospital

This weekend will be the start of a celebration of my 25 years in ministry. Our church will be blessed by some of Oklahoma City's most gifted young guns. Pastor Kelly R. Booker, Pastor Ricky Patton, Pastor Vance Roland and Pastor Jeffrey L. Mitchell.

Our bond program gets kick-off May 4th for Two Million Dollars. What an exciting time to be in the Kingdom of God. When a church that is no very old can purchase a city landmark of over 25 acres and build a place and a home for the Spirit of God to dwell. Every time I think about it, it literally takes my breath away. This is such a God thing, that He is going to have to do this.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!!

Number 3's Birthday

Happy 2nd Birthday Saniyah Raye! After a very busy week of ministering (five sermon scheduled and I made four of the five.)

Interdenominational Ministers Association Thursday noon

Holdenville Prison Thursday evening (very exciting time ministering to the brothas. Looking forward to a return trip.)

Greater Bethel Sunday this morning. Wrapped up series on Ephesians 6 "The Devil is defeated, Already."

New Dimension Ministries this afternoon. It was their annual ushers day. This was the first time I had the privilege to minister there and to met Bishop and Pastor House. Wonderful couple with an awesome vision.

Along with attending the National Baptist Pastor"s Alternative Training in Tulsa OK. After several hour of intense study...I am now certifiable to instruct in any district, State or National Congress of Christian Education.

I made it back just in time for the grandbaby's birthday which has been the highlight of my week.

I am proud to announce that our Church Bond program kick-off will be the first Sunday of May.

Better get back to Sunday dinner and give the family my undivided attention.

Dear church family

I have loved having conversations with so many people regarding the teaching and preaching. I've been thrilled to hear that people are making decisions to change their life in such a positive way. Personally, I'm so thankful for the opportunity to teach a group of people who want to be different. It really is thrilling to be part of Bethel Church!
 
I look forward to seeing you this weekend for part 2 of our series. I'm excited to continue in our discussion of the spiritual weapons we have at our displosal in the war. I hope you'll be there!
 
Also, I hope you're planning to invite a friend to join us!
 
See you this weekend!
 
Blessings,
Pastor G

101 Belonging @3pm Saturday
No Girlfriends

I'm Back!!!

I've been moving too much since Easter. Attending and participating in the 64th Simultaneous Revival. Most of all just trying to catch up, seems like once you get behind its impossible to get caught up.

There is much I could say about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marking the 40th remembrance of his assassination. His words where and still are some of the most powerful uttered.

The following are simply Random thoughts...

When someone says that my friend...do they mean friend or Friend

When you walk in purpose you collided with destiny.

Love is not what you receive but what you give.

You can be dumb by yourself there is no need to join stupid

I am because we are

Its not what you say but how you say it and how you express yourself

Laugh more

Health and wellness is not about size

I'm Back!!! I've been moving too much since Easter. Attending and participating in the 64th Simultaneous Revival. Most of all just trying

Please Be In Prayer

Today first order of business is my mother is having surgery. Please be in prayer for her. I'm writing this sitting in that dreaded waiting room. Often times in life God has to place us all in our own waiting room. We are commanded to always pray and then wait. As I walked out of the holding area I was assured that God could go where I couldn't. It is during some of the toughest time that my heart thanks God. 1st because I know Him. I often wonder how those who don't make it through life when they're facing challenging days. 2nd because He is fully with her in the surgery room and fully with me in the waiting room ministering to both of us at the same time.

Later today we will kick off our third revival meeting part of a city-wide movement called the simultaneous revival. Which has national acclaim as being one of a kind. What makes this so special is the partnership and the cooperation of the church city-wide (each church has their own service @7 then there are joint services @ noon & 10pm) and the national preacher who minister. I've been blessed to have grown up in this revival meeting and have been blessed by many preaching legends and some of the great preaching mind in the business.

I'm proud to have my friend Rev. Bryan L. Carter Senior Pastor of the Concord Church of Dallas Texas coming to minister to us. Pastor Carter succeeded one of those legendary preachers Dr. E. K. Bailey. Who introduced me to expository preaching and who was Dr. Major L. Jimerson's pastor of St. John Church. Pastor Carter is a major preacher and teacher. He has blessed our church for the past two years and God has promised to do it again this year.

Please Be In Prayer Today first order of business is my mother is having surgery. Please be in prayer for her. I'm writing this sitting in

Revival Time

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)

This was the scripture that the Lord placed in my heart Easter Sunday morning as we reached the end of our 28 day voluntary fast. I shared this with those who had joined the First Lady and I in the fast about what God was going to do in the life of our church and their lives as well as a result of their obedience. This evening as I was visiting a church service the Lord kept repeating this to me. As I made the drive home I asked the Lord what, was He trying to get me to see. And just as clear as He has ever impressed anything in my heart this is what He said tell the people that this week I’m going to do something special.

So I’m asking each of you to come and watch God do something special. I have no idea what God is going to do but I’m coming expecting Him to come through on His Word. In preparation I’m asking you to pray at 4pm for 4 minutes and for 4 things (@4 for 4 for 4).

1. Pray for God’s Power (Holy Spirit)
2. Pray for God’s Preacher (Pastor Bryan L. Carter)
3. Pray for God’s People (Everyone attending)
4. Pray for God’s Promise (The special thing He’s going to do in us, for us and through us)

We will be very intentional these three evenings so come prepared. 1st we will start on time 7pm. 2nd we will spend time entering God’s presence in worship. 3rd we will give the preaching and teaching its rightful place as the highlight of the evening. 4th we will give with expectation of a harvest.

Never Would Have Made It.

This Easter Morning I want to share Marvin Sapp’s sentiments “I am stronger, I am wiser, I am better, much better. When I look back over what he brought me thru. I realize that I made it because I had you to hold on to, now I am stronger, now I am wiser, I am better, so much better. I made it. Is there anybody in this house other than me that can declare that you made it. Tell your neighbor, never would have made it. Never would have made it. Never could have made it. Never could have made it without you. Never would have made it. Never would have made it. Never could have made it. Never could have made it without you.”

We’ve made it 28 days of fasting and praying. Father, we thank you for your patience, love and kindness that you’ve shown to us throughout these 28 days. We could not have made it without You. We are better, so much better, stronger and wiser. Receive our sacrifice as an act of worship to You. Our goal was to humble ourselves in Your presences as our God, Creator and the Giver of every good and perfect gift. Father, hear our prayer. We can’t accomplish anything without You and nothing worth accomplishing is worthy of accomplishing without You. Thank You for giving us the vision to build a place for Your Spirit to dwell. Now we ask that You will provide the professionals, the provision and the people. We call it done! In the name of our Risen Lord Jesus the Christ, we pray. Amen!!

I want each of you to know this morning that you’re a Great People and I’m honored to have been chosen of God to serve you. It has been your kind words, your act of obedience and faith in God and your testimonies that has made this journey a little easier for Janice and me.

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)

Day 26 of 28

What a familiar place today has been for me. As we made our way home from church, we commended on the fact that it has become easy dealing with the fast. Every year during our Easter Celebration we participate in a corporate fast (normally a total fast with intake of water only from Mon-Thr). Of course this year we were lead to 28 Days. What remarkable strength I feel. You would think that the opposite would be true.

What an awesome lesson the more you sacrifice for God the stronger he makes you. I hope you've experience some life changing lessons that will stay with you forever. God is doing and going to do some amazing things because of this focused time. The word says that something only come through fasting and prayer.

Tonight was a special night as we celebrate holy communion. It was one of the most spiritual services we've had this year. Every year we seek to make this an extra special evening. This year focus was on simply praise and worship. We sung some hymns and new songs that centered on the cross.

Looking forward to the other scheduled activity. Sunday ought to be a great celebration. The staff has been working tirelessly.

Congratulations

Congratulations to my pastor and first lady Drs. John & Patricia Reed as they celebrate their 45th year at the Fairview Missionary Baptist Church. God's Word says "'I know the plan I have for you..." I'm a recepent of that scripture. I was blessed to grow up as a member of this church watching one of the most caring and loving couples serve faithfully. How that translate into my life is I had a living example of how God want us to do this. I thank God for this couple.

WE'VE MADED TO THE FOURTH QUARTER. If this was a football game, we would hold up four fingers to represent that we must presever one last quarter. What an empowering thought, we've made it 21 days (awesome.) Hang in there!

More times than not on sunday morning I struggle from an uneasiness about the message that I've crafted. Not expositonaly but whether it is relevant. I fought the feeling all weekend and made my way to the pulpit not knowing what God was going to do. As always God does what He does. What an amazing atmosphere and the souls that were saved. Simply doesn't get any better.

Last thought: Senator Obama's Pastor Dr. Jeremiah Wright is under undue pressure for supporting his member and sharing is world views. Senator Clinton's fund raising committee member Aferraro says Obama is 'lucky' because he is a black man. I can hear defeat in that comment the 'ONLY' reason he's winning is because he is 'black'. We must always fight hard, run faster & win by more. There will always be those who will never except us as equals.

Day 20 of 28

God has been so gracious and great to each of us. What a privilege to have the opportunity to actually live out Romans 12:1ff. Our desire to seek the presence of God is what make Him smile.



Tomorrow will be the end of the third quarter (day 21...7 day from celebration). This would be a great place to make you aware of your victory over the flesh. Next Sunday will mark 28 days that will stand as a tremendous testimony of what you can do when you surrender to God.



Over the last three weeks your flesh has screamed out to be satisfied but you subjected it to a greater desire to please God your Father. When your flesh wanted food after 7pm, sweets or quit before the 28 minutes were up...you said no. (Hallelujah) The word "Can't" will have no more power over your life and it will take you to higher heights and deeper depths.



Your participation in this fast has been such a great encouragement to Janice and me. Thank you for allowing us to be your leaders. The support has made an extremely difficult and demanding ministry a little easier.



I'm looking forward to our Morning experience to see what God will do through His Word. See you in the morning.

Great to be home

Growing up I dreamed of traveling and after about 22 years of both ministerial and professional traveling, I've concluded that it good to leave but great coming home.

My flight maded it in just in time to run by the church freshing up and grab my Bible. I arrived a few minutes after 7 feeling rushed and suffering from alittle jet lagged, not knowing if I was up to preaching. After whispering a prayer in the office we headed into the church. As I walked into the sanctuary I was greeted by a great numbers of our membership.

Their prayers and encouragement strengthed the tasked at hand. Dr John People and the Faith Memorial Baptist Church is a church in transition and pastor has been trying to get us to visit. I was glad that we were able to schedule the fellowship.I was to get home and glad to see everybody.

One more lecture to the board of directors of One Church One Child and then time to turn attention to weekend message.

We are halfway through the third quarter of our fast.. We are days away from another successful end of the fast.

Please take a moment and join me in prayer.

In Richmond VA

After a very long day Sunday (still trying to overcome the hour we lost). I had a 6:20am flight. Now you know somebody was straight trippin. You probably guessed it I was late getting to the airport. I arrived about 5:45am and the line were hanging out the door. I asked the skycap if the check me in curbside for my flight and the answer was no.

I go to the end of the check-in line saying to myself I'm no making this flight (I've never missed a flight for being late). If by chance I mad the check-in, I wasn't making security check point. But watch Divine Favor one of the skycaps came to the back of the line and said let have your itinerary and let me get you through this line.

He took everything and went to the front of the line for me and checked my bag and now I had a chance. He then lead me to another security check point that I made through in record time. I finally made it to my gate, everybody has already boarded. I was the last one to board but I maded it.

Here the message even when things look impossible to you God can and will make a way. While God gave me Favor I still had to participate. He'll get you through the lines but you have to get to the gate.

This fast is about God getting us through the lines (red tape, contracts, hiring professionals) but we have to participate in give, sacrifice and prayer.

Don't miss this I finally make it to the hotel and (some of you know where I'm going if you've ever stayed at the Doubletree). They offered me that hot double chocolate chip cookie. The greater the favor the greater the temptation. Be strong! The cookie is still in the bag.

End of the 2nd Quarter

Today is day 14 of 28. It has been a very long time since I’ve invited someone in to minister to our church. I invited Pastor A. R. Crawford to minister during our morning worship experience and Dr. A. Glenn Woodberry delivered the afternoon message. Pastor Crawford has become a fast friend we’ve worked closely in the Baptist Minister’s Association as well as in the Concern Clergy community work. He preached from Psalms 1 “A Blessed Man.” Dr. Woodberry is a mentor and a model of mine. Very early in my ministry he sort of adopted me and has spoken over the years some of the most profound, prolific and spirit-filled philosophies on preaching and pasturing. It was our Men’s Day and as usual Dr. blessed our hearts through the Word of God.

During every fast that I’ve ever participated in one thing has been consistent the enemy always tries to distract and discourage. John 10:10 is clear of his intent “A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” (Msg) As you continue to join us on this journey remember that there will be Satanic resistance Matthew 4:1-3ff says “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him…” (NIV)

Here’s my point please don’t be surprised or caught off guard when confusion, chaos and/or complications come up against you. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV)

Be Strong We’re Entering The Third Quarter!

A Lesson From Some Cotton Candy

Giving in to the temptation! Today is day 13 of 28. Janice and I took the sugababies to see Elmo Grows Up. After making our way through the turnstiles they went crazy the atmosphere just pulls them in to that give-me, buy-me, can I have frenzy. Every time Elmo comes to town it takes Big Poppa a few weeks to recover financially. We made it to our seats without spending a dime I sitting pretty wallet in intact but then it started give-me, buy-me, can I have. There I was like a deer caught in headlights and you know the rest…I melted and started that journey all the way back to vendor’s row. Where the nice people smile at you but under their breath I know their saying “Sucker.” A “Sucker” is person who will spend hard earned money for over-price junk that he won’t ever see again after the night is over. After several painful moments I begin the journey back to the seat with an arm full of lights, funnel cakes and cotton candy.

Elmo is on stage, the lights are bright, the music is loud and Sugababies are in happy, happy land. Playing with the light toys, eating funnel cakes and cotton candy, then it hits Janice and me simultaneously. The temptation to surrender! At that moment the Holy Spirit delivered a spiritual note we are all faced with the desire for cotton candy, that sweet, soft and enticing candy. The cotton candy represents that which we want but that which is not good for us. 2 Timothy 4: 3-4:

(New International Version) “For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”

(The Message Translation) “You're going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They'll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages.”

No matter how much you may desire the “cotton candy” just say NO! “Cotton candy” is just puff, No filler, will destroy your teeth and brings nothing to the table. Hebrews 5:14 (NIV) “But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”

With the temptation of “Easy Worship” and “Comfortable Church” beware and don’t get caught up in a ministry that only offers “cotton candy”! 15 minutes sermons with no real relevance, church without commitment and salvation with sacrifice. We’re living in some dangerous times when we choose a place of worship for every other reason other than the word. We ought to choose a church on the basis of the Word of God that is being spoken. If the music isn’t the best – make sure that the uncompromised Word of God is being explained and exalted. If the people aren’t the most polite people – make sure that Word is being used for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that you may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Tim. 3:16-17 (NIV)

Don’t Give In To The Temptation!

Day 12 of 28 Days

Good morning! I want to first say thanks for joining us in this journey. It is very encouraging knowing that there are others who care about the ministry and the work that God is calling us to – that are willing to get in the spiritual trenches with us. You will never know what it has meant to Janice and I.

Let me give you a quick update from the frontlines. (Now remember this is ONLY for those of us who are fasting as we continue to be faithful to that which God has called us to pray for during our time of fasting.) Here’s the update: If you will remember during our 50 days of pray last fall, I shared this word with you “If you start praying about something, do not be surprised if it gets worse before it gets better.” That’s the update! Read John 11: 1-43

Now I want to talk with you about a much deeper word than commitment. I want to talk to you about the word SACRIFICE. We know very little about personal sacrifice today. Personal sacrifice is when you have to give up something or someone that you love very much, and it may even hurt, in order to walk with God.

That’s what the discipline of fasting says to God. There is nothing that You’ve blessed me with that I’m not willing to give up in order to walk with You. The key is SURRENDER!!! The surrendering of your entire life to God indicates personal sacrifice. Your level of surrender and personal sacrifice will determine the depth of your walking with God.

I promised that throughout this fast that I would help you understand this particular fast in hopes of deepening your time with God. So why has God called us to fast. We have been summons by God to fast because it is the only way to be successful in the work He has assigned us to accomplish.

In Nehemiah 1:4 - Nehemiah was given the impossible task of rebuild the walls around Jerusalem, so he prayed and fasted.

In Acts 13:2-3 - The church was given the impossible task of winning the world to Christ, so they prayed and fasted.

Application: God has given our church the daring task of building and winning the lost to Christ that many would considered an impossible task...we must pray and fast!

For 28 days and nights we are asking God for supernatural favor to do His will through prayer and fasting. I cannot wait to see what happens.

The issue is personal sacrifice. The issue is surrender. Christ is our supreme example of both. He did it for us!

A Commitment Church

I want to just share a word about “Commitment!” Consistency is the one thing that every believer can recommit to everyday. Consistency is also the one thing that is at the center of so many churches never making the impact on the world around it. Sunday as I made my way to the pulpit there it was again that nagging push to confront the commitment level of our church. It was one of those moments that few people enjoy but if we would be honest one that’s needs to ring throughout the pulpits of America.

I made some commitments to God early in my spiritual journey to the pastorate and one of them was that I wouldn’t ever be afraid to speak truth. If I was going to accept the responsibility of becoming the spiritual leader/father of a congregation, I was going to love them enough to tell them the truth. Often times I feel like John on the island of Patmos but for the most part I believe that at the end of the day most people appreciate the truth. My hope is that by speaking the truth that there will be those who hear the message, compute the consequences and make a life affecting commitment to Jesus Christ that moves them to another spiritual level (whether believer or non-believer).

One person wrote me shortly after coming to Greater Bethel from another church and said, “The difference in the two churches is that the other was a committed church and this is a committed church.” Recently I read in a leading Christian publication that today’s younger generation is looking for this characteristic in a potential church home. God has given me the courage to present a preaching/pasturing ministry that is real, relevant and often time raw. On the other hand, over the years the church has lose some members who either through adoption or birth who come in and/or find that the commitment level encouraged is more than they wanted to make. Let me quickly say no one in departing is ever honest enough to give it as the reason for their exit. So instead, they look around for something or someone to blame and/or criticize as they exit rather than being honest. Most would never admit that they hadn’t really put a decent amount of effort into attending on a regular basic, getting to know and be known by church family and/or developing an intimate relationship with Jesus.

My hope is that every member of the Greater Bethel Church would raise the level of their commitment whether through this 28 day fast, attendance, giving, serving, belonging or whatever area that the Holy Spirit places on your heart. I promise you that if you do…it will be the most important thing you’ve ever done in your life. God want to do something special in your life…

To final words for this e-mail…On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the highest) how would you score yourself in two strategic areas of importance?

First from 1 to 10 rate your commitment to Christ as your Lord.

Next, on a scale of 1 to 10 rate your commitment to His local church.

Now prayerfully consider up-scaling your commitment. Commitment and consistency are two wings on the same bird.

28 Days

In a few minutes it will be day 7 of a 28 day fast that I’ve ask the Greater Bethel Church to join me in. God has given us a great opportunity to do something for His Kingdom that many, many church family wished they were called to do. I feel a sense of urgency and often time chased and dogged by fear about our future. While I know that our future will be fruitful the enemy has tried everything to throw us off track. God has called this fast to center us as we reflect and refocus our confidence in Him. I believe that God is going to take our church to the next level as He builds the church before the church is built. The following our fasting covenant…

Greater Bethel Church
Fasting Covenant 2008

“And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.” 2 Chronicles 20:3 (KJV)

“So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.” Ezra 8:23 (NIV)

Time Span: Monday, February 25th ~ Sunday, March 23rd (Easter) = 28 Days

Daily Commitment To:

Spend 28 minutes of daily quiet time with God

Within my 28 minutes of daily quiet time w/God…spend time praying for our Church in the following areas:
Vision (Make me passionate about Building Your Church and Your CommUnity)
Building Program (Give Us Divine Favor in the area of Contracts, Bids, Permits, Finances & Professionals)
Finances (Create a spirit of generosity within the family beginning with me).

28 minutes of daily Exercise or Activity

Absolutely No Eating after 7 pm

Absolutely No SWEETS…not sugar….Sweets defined as cookies, candy, cake etc.

Day Trip To End A Long Week

I guess I must admit that my wife's right. I'm guilty of being too busy. It has been about a month since last posting, even with the new feature of post with your mobile. I'm guilty as charged but I'm not going to give up without a fight.

Since my last post after being heavily influence by my study of church ministry and being lead by the Holy Spirit too lead the church in 50 day of corporate prayer and fasting. God has impressed on me that it was time for a transition, starting with leadership. Process still in transition...keep you posted.

The fall season has been rough for me physically, especially during my heavily preaching schedule. God grace was surely sufficient with a few days rest I made it through.

Just wrapped up a special meeting where I was invited to my home church to serve as the noon day speaker. What a great privilege as well as challenge . First its always tough to go home. Second being the noon day in your own city. Third with a major time retrains that I've not faced in 24 years. Fourth is sharing the pulpit with a national evangelist named Reverend Clarence R. Morton. National Baptist Congress instructor, writer and speaker. It was great getting to hang out with my pastor as well as Dr. Morton.

Today I got up pretty early to wrap up things for this weekend service. Finished about 11am and loaded up the family and headed toward Kansas where my youngest son Zack is attending college too surprise him. I'm so proud of what God is doing in his life and for the young man he has grown to be.

Pray for our save travel back home and my strength as I stand tomorrow to declare God's Word at both 9am & 10:45am.

New Orleans

Today I'm away attending the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship Leadership Conference in New Orleans, LA. It's strange just saying that after how devastating hurricane Katrina hit here I've not been since. I'm staying at the Hilton Riverside relaxing a few minutes before getting back to work in the executive lounge on the 29th floor over looking the river the water. The waters here has an amazing story, it hard to imagine just months ago the same water took lives and now as if nothing had every happen thing seem so normal.

That leads me to a thought after most national disasters there is much talk about recognizing the mass lost of life. Just looking from the outside in there seems to be a push to rebulid the city and move on. Humanly speaking it human nature but one would think that those how had love ones pass away without a trace would demand something.

I will try my best to atleast take a tour of the area that hasn't been rebuilt and would be great to see leaves. Better get back to work another short week.

away

Attending the 110th session of the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This is always a trip filled with mix emotions because I know I need to be here but I don't want to be. Just like the song says 'I'm a little bit country and a little bit rock and road' that's how I feel I'm a little bit old school and a little bit new school.

That's my struggle with these meetings we seem to warp back into time. When I look around this convention my heart is grieved for the lack of young people. We must develop programs that will attract them and continue to build a bridge to our heritage. I noticed this year more than ever that this means something to the older generation that will be lost if it is not properly passed on to the next generation.

Now I think I've wrote myself into a corner and that there is something God has for us to do. I hear Jesus saying 'the harvest is pantiful but the labors are few.' there are times when I feel overwhelmed with a heart to do the things of God.

Let me wrap this up by sharing how good God is. I've been walking around the convention and there are people from the district calling me president. Who would have ever thought that God would use somebody like me in his service. Praise be to God!

Jena 6 September 20th

Today all across this nation, there will be rallies and protest for racial justice responding to events in Jena, Louisiana that has gripped the nations attention. I excited about the movement because I believe that injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere. I just concerned with the time that it has taken with all the technology that is out there it took so long for us to respond. Second how could we still have a 'whites only' anything and that people of any color would think that's proper. Future more the construction of nooses to be called a prank.



While American is the greatest Nation in the world there is still much we must work toward. Sadly, shamefully and sorrowfully we are still these yet to be United States. Pray much for the movement today that everything will be done for the glory and honor of God.

You Are My Ministry

I’m hanging out for the day in Dallas, TX serving and ministering to the love of my life Janice. It is an honor to just get away and just minister to her. As pastor sometimes [more than I am willing to admit right now] my priorities get crossed and I’m not the best husband in the world. Now I’ve come a long way with that because as a young inexperience preacher I thought that my calling was my top priority but I know now that no matter what call God has place on my life, no matter where He leads me, my first call is to be a husband and father. I guess with all that is going on in the religious world today with the well publicized ministry leader’s martial issues, it has further deepened my resolved to take time and devote time to my first ministry.

I was reading one of my good friends blog and I want to echo his sentiments about his church because he express the thoughts I have about Bethel it’s strange but yet it’s not because I think that it speaks of most churches in American that has made a commitment to become a healthy church. Here what HB Charles pastor of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church says “I believe we are going in the right direction. But I know that we have a long way to go. And sometimes it seems like the progress of the church is two steps forward, three steps back. But be clear, none of these things change my mind and heart against the church. I believe in Jesus. Therefore, I believe in the church. I agree with the late Vance Havner, who used to say that you can't drown with your head above the water. And maybe that's the key. Maybe we need to be more inentional, strategic, diligent, passionate and focused on the supremacy of Jesus Christ. We should win people to Christ, not the church. And if I read my Bible right, a true devotion to Christ will result in participating membership in the church.”

I really don’t know what God has in store for Bethel but I sense it something huge. There is something on the horizon and I can’t wait to see what God is up to.

On My Home To See My Baby

It is always exciting to be looking to travel to a conference or convention but as Dorothy said in the Wiz 'there is no place like home!' Growing up we always went on one vacation (the GMWA) and I have always loved traveling. I pledged at age 10 that when I grew up I was going to get a job and travel. Stay in fancy hotel and enjoy a life of lesser. Well none of the thing have yet come true but I do travel. That was one of the things that I really enjoyed while working in corporate American. Now at 43 with so much travel behind me after about two day away I ready to get back home. Janice and I thought that after she closed the business down that she would be able to travel together but that hasn't happen just yet. I normally travel with her on her conferences (Ain't that something).

One other thing...does this make any sense? I was scheduled to leave Philly Thursday but due to a new assignment and the president's address I rescheduled my flight to Friday. That's pretty clear isn't it? I don't sleep due to a number of reason bad arrive at the airport early (for me). Here's the twist the only have me book half way home, after paying a travel change charge. Then tell me it will cost me 600.00 to get home. Crazy huh. Now let me rush to say I did not have to act unlike the Pastor because the young lady that was serving me was not having it. She was more upset than I was and after watching her I quickly relaxed. Favor just ain't fair!! After talking crazy to two different supervisors I had my boarding passes for my entire trip.

Well I on the plane waiting for take-off. My goal is to sleep between Philly and DFW. I really tried running on about 6 hours of sleep in 3 days. May have to get something to help me sleep.

Father, thank you for a wonderful day. Amen!

Just A Thought About A Fallen Brother

Today, I'm sitting in the Philadelphia convention center waiting to hear the annual address of Dr. William J. Shaw. President of the National Baptist Convention USA Inc. Here's my thought why does God choose to take some through death early and leave others. Now don't get me wrong I know God is sovereign but it is just a verbal question that I had just minutes ago.

Last evening as we all ran into each other (meaning the original 'Sons of Thunder') in the lobby of the hotel it was like time rowed back and in the mist of the fun, fellowship and even the foolishness my mind turn to the late Rev. Ron C. Carter. Ron was the always in the middle of all the fun but more than that Ron was like everybody's big brother.

Salute Rev. Ron C. Carter.

Away But Still Running

As I stated in my last blog I'm in Philadelphia PA, I had thought that I would get some much needed rest but that hasn't happen just yet. With everything going on I have been greatly encourage by the meetings, the messages and the fellowship.

An added treat has been that my evening hours between services and meetings have been spent watching The Word Network (if you don't know what that is its preaching 24/7). And any who knows me knows that turns me on. I guest I just let the cat out of the bag...I'm staying up all night watching and dreaming. While there are many ministry that are questionable in doctrine and theology it is still exciting to see what ministries are doing. Many I'm familiar with through convention work or conferences. I feel a sense of being on the edge of doing some awesome thing in the Kingdom of God. Can't wait to see what God is going to do with the ministry that I'm blessed to be a servant to.

Some very interesting fact about Philly: sadly, sinfully and shamefully the state leads the nation in homicides 297 with a great number of them accruing among African American community. At the same time proudly and positively the Philly police academy graduated 127 caudate. Highlighted by a young brother who graduated and was interviewed and asked why he wanted to become a policeman. He said his father was killed and while going up he was shot nine times and if he could stop that from happening to one other kid it would be worth it.

Miss my wife (not away from her much, so I can't get home too soon). Plus it doesn't hurt that the sugarbabies are with her. Seriously walking around the convention center and seeing guys with their wives I makes me long for the day when it will be Janice and me.

Peace out!

Headed to Philly

Headed to Philly today for the National Baptist Convention. This should prove to be a interesting meeting because we are approaching an election year. So there will be a lot of movements by prospective candidates. There is an under current of younger more cutting edges pastors who could make positive impact on the out come of this election. It is amazing how God has preachers and leaders from across this country needing, desiring and longer for the same thing. What, you ask? A move of God! Something new, fresh and innovative.



I'm not alone! I'm not crazy! God does speak outside and in my case beyond the box! I believe that God is calling us to 'just do it'! We need his power and his guidance but he want us to do it. Without a move of God we will lose a generation possibly two that we can't afford especially in the Africa American community.



Now I know that this was real random but I started out writing one thing and ended up somewhere else. I'm hoping this plane is going to take soon.



Talk to you from Philly. I'm going to have to remember to taste a Philly cheese sandwich. I'll tell you about.