Think Higher

Manufacturing Church

2011-12-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

My good friend Scott Hunter of Marriage On Fire ministries recently put this link out on Facebook. I watched it and had a good laugh until it struck me how close to the truth this video really is. Can church become so manufactured that God is nowhere to be found? I believe we all know the answer to that question. And the reason we know is because all of us have worshiped before with less than our whole heart.

How many times have we, as church leaders, dropped this week's songs and sermon into a familiar template without even thinking to ask, "Does God want something different this Sunday?" I appreciate these guys highlighting a danger that every church faces - substituting an experience for God.

Please don't misunderstand. If a church has a nice building . . . great. If a church has cutting edge technology . . . fantastic. There is nothing wrong with having a top notch music program and you can be so progressive as to broadcast a hologram of yourself preaching to 100 satellite campuses, at the same time. I get it. But if God is not there then what's the point? When the pastor preaches, it better be "Thus says the Lord" and not a psyco-babble sermon. When the musicians play and sing, their offering must be in spirit and truth if they want God to be pleased with it.

Watch the video. Have a good laugh. Then do your best not to go there.

CAP

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RJBd8zE48A

The Real Deal

2011-11-22T06:05:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Adrian Rogers. We were both standing in line outside The White House - waiting to be let in for The National Day of Prayer gathering. He just walked up to me and said, "Hi, I'm Adrian Rogers," or something just like that. It was so surreal.

I told him I was a pastor and he asked, "What kind of church do you pastor?" Knowing that this man preached to tens of thousands every week, I humbly said, "A small one." He laughed, hugged my arm and introduced me to the president of the Southern Baptist Convention. I will never forget how genuinely kind Dr. Rogers was to me personally. He made this small-time minister feel at ease in the midst of spiritual giants.

Since then I've had the opportunity to talk to others who knew Adrian Rogers personally and confirmed that he was the real deal. He always took time for people and never looked past them when they were speaking. While pastoring a great church he never saw himself as anything more than a humble servant to a great God.

This morning I went to lwf.org and listened to one of Dr. Roger's messages, The Sin That Lost A War, while working out on my elliptical. Every Christian should hear this message for sure, but I would especially recommend it for the men. If you are concerned about the legacy you are leaving for your family, please take the time to listen to this sermon - proclaimed by one of God's finest pulpiteers. You won't be disappointed.

CAP

Our Purpose for Living

2011-11-21T17:50:00.000-08:00

If happiness and fulfillment were based only upon having our needs met then there should be a lot more happy people in this world. However, we all know of people who are financially well off – yet are not happy. They are living lives of stress and worry.

I heard of one husband who said to his wife, “Why are you always worrying? It doesn’t do any good?” His wife said, “Oh yes it does. Ninety percent of the things I worry about never happen, so it must be working.” Sound familiar?

As I mentioned in my last post, we worry about whether our needs will be met but there might be a greater worry that Jesus eludes to in Matthew 6:33 - a life lived without purpose. Like Solomon, many of today's Christians have sampled everything the world has to offer and come up empty. They desire a life filled with purpose and meaning, but are looking in the wrong places.

Jesus says that our physical needs will be taken care of as our spiritual purpose is fixed. We are to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness . . . then all these things will be added to us. The word first gives the thought of that which is before, prominent and best. The children of God are wandering around searching for meaning and purpose and the whole time, God is saying, "I am your purpose. I am your meaning. I am what is best." You cannot have a greater purpose than living for His Kingdom and righteousness.

So what does it mean to seek His Kingdom? It is to recognize God's reign and live with a passion of bringing people into God's family. Seeking His righteousness means to look for in hopes of obtaining. It is not saying that we will attain God's level of righteousness, but God has called us to be holy as He is holy.

The Lord wants us to focus on the spiritual purpose He has designed for us and when we do . . . some astounding things will happen.

God will meet our physical needs.
We'll live a life of fulfillment since we now have a purpose to live for.
There will be a peace that comes from knowing that God is pleased with us, because we have made His priorities our priorities.

God's blessings are always on the pathway of service. They almost never come when we live only for ourselves. Live for the King and His Kingdom.

CAP

Do You Know That God Knows?

2011-11-18T05:48:00.001-08:00

This Sunday I will be continuing my message series Escape to Generous City, and will be dealing with the subject of worry - the nemesis of generosity. In Matthew chapter 6, there is a very interesting phrase that the Lord Jesus imparts to us in verse 32, "For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things." Did you get that? God knows what we need. Now to make it personal, say it to yourself, "God knows what I need." This seems elementary but I assure you it is not, because to the degree that we believe v.32 is true, reveals the depth of our faith in God's ability to provide for our needs.

Now we think we need a lot of things. And if I don’t get what I think I need then I'm forced to make a determination. Either God wants me to have it but is testing my prayer life and patience, or He doesn’t believe it is a genuine need in my life.

And that is what we have a hard time accepting.

The truth is, if it’s not something associated with our livelihood (food, clothing and shelter) then it really isn’t a need – but a want.

How many of us pray for God to give us something we think we need, and when He doesn’t, take matters into our own hands? How many of us say to God with our actions, “God, I really needed it and you weren’t moving fast enough (I know how busy you are) so I just went ahead and took care of it. If you would still like to help then please send money so I can pay the credit card bill when it comes.”

I think it happens all the time and that is why Christians, who should be the most content people on the planet, are mired in constant worry and stress. And because of this . . .

They are living with bills they were never meant to have
They are living with material things that they were never meant to have but are now responsible for. When you own something . . . it own you as well.

As long as the Christian remains tangled in a web of worry, he cannot escape to Generous City. God never promised to give us everything we wanted, but He did promise to supply all our needs. And perhaps our greatest need of all is to be reminded occasionally that God is keenly aware (more than we are) at every moment of exactly what we need.

CAP

Happiness or Joy?

2011-11-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

Which one do you want - happiness or joy? You might ask, "Aren't they the same?" Actually they are not. Adrian Rogers says that happiness is based upon happenings. In other words, happiness is fleeting because it is dependent upon circumstances. Is the sun shining today? Is there money in the bank? Am I excelling at my job? Do I have a good relationship with my spouse? Are my kids getting good grades? Does the car need repairs? Do I need to lose weight? Am I getting enough exercise? You get the idea.

We could spend hours asking questions about every area of life and probably end up depressed. However, joy is not dependent on happenings - but on our relationship with God. It might be rainy outside (and it is at the time of this writing), you might be living from paycheck to paycheck, you might be stalled in your job, you might be desperately in need of a date night with your spouse, the kids are getting Cs, the car needs new brakes, you need to lose ten pounds and can't seem to find time to exercise - but there are some things you are doing right.

You are spending time with God each day, in His Word and in prayer. You are seeking to please God in how you live your life. You are not perfect, but when you make mistakes you quickly ask for forgiveness and believe God grants it based on 1 John 1:9. You are more concerned about what God thinks than what other people think about you. You recognize that your self worth is not determined by your appearance, education, social status, position, possessions or bank account - but by God Almighty.

Isn't it interesting that the Macedonians, who were living in abject poverty (2 Corinthians 8), were able to give to the Christians in Jerusalem - and do it with abundant joy in their hearts. I'm sure it did not make them happy to be poor, but the Macedonians loved God so much that their joy overcame circumstances that would devastate most people. God meant all the world to them.

And by the way, if you ever doubt how much you mean to God, don't forget that the Lord of all things had you in His mind and heart before you were ever created. The God that has universes to drip from His fingertips thought on you and ultimately gave His only Son to die for you. When we can remember God's love for us, and see our relationship with Him as our sanctuary, then we too can abide in abundant joy.

So if you can be happy then do it. And if you can have joy and happiness at the same time . . . that's a win-win. But if you must strive for one then strive for joy and more times than not, you will find happiness as well.

CAP

Stand Still and See the Salvation of the Lord

2011-08-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I spoke on Exodus 14 where Moses says in verse 13, ". . . Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord." We get excited when we read this because we know what is coming next - the parting of the Red Sea. The problem is, the Israelites had no idea what form their salvation would take - only that they needed to stand still and trust God. Who could have imagined that God would part a sea for them? Only God - which leads me to this thought, "God doesn't always answer our prayers the way that we hope He will, but He does answer, and His answer is always right." Sometimes the sun still sets on your hopes and dreams. Sometimes the person you pray for never recovers. Sometimes the promotion you worked for is given to someone else. Sometimes the test comes back and it is cancer. Sometimes a good friend turns his/her back on you. Sometimes the bills are overwhelming and there are no additional funds to pay. I don't know what your crisis is, but stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. If you are His child then He will answer your prayers. The question is not, "Will He answer?" The question is, "Will I trust Him, no matter what the answer is?" We must learn to trust Him because God rarely answers our prayers exactly as we think He should. Instead He grows our faith by answering in ways we would never have considered in a million years.

CAP

A Pastor, Fireman and Superhero

2011-04-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

"So Joshua, what do you want to be when you grow up?" Sometimes he will tell me that he wants to be a pastor. Other times he will say that he wants to be a fireman. Most recently, he informed the family that he has decided to be a superhero when he grows up. We're still waiting for the super powers to kick in. I don't know what Joshua will finally choose when he gets older, but I am thankful that all of his choices thus far are professions that involve helping others. I was reminding the church last Sunday that the pleasures of this life are fleeting and only leave us with temporary satisfaction. The greatest pleasure comes from serving others and knowing that you made a difference in their lives. I love Mark 8:35 which says, "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it." It would be awesome if my son became a preacher someday - if that is what God wants. I would be proud if the Lord led him to be a fireman. But the truth is, as long as we teach our children to love and serve God by loving and serving others, they will all grow up to be superheroes.

CAP

Relationship, Not Religion

2011-03-03T11:01:00.000-08:00

Our Starbucks group just finished Francis Chan's Crazy Love book and it was awesome. In the final chapter, Chan's barrage of truth is hard hitting and causes you to ask some intense questions of yourself. Here are a few of the lessons taught in chapter 10.

God may want you to go overseas to be a missionary, or He may call you to be more of a missionary where you are now. If we have a right relationship with Jesus, we will be open to all possibilities.
We often say that we can do "all things through Christ" but live and plan as though God doesn't exist.
We say that we are waiting for God to reveal His calling on our life in order to avoid action. Chan asks, "Did you hear God calling you to sit in front of the television yesterday?" Ouch! Don't say that.
If we want to experience God, then we must be willing to put ourselves in situations where we will fail unless God comes through.
Remember to treat everyone you meet the same way you would treat Jesus.
Ask yourself, "Would I rather have Jesus walking right beside me, or have the Holy Spirit living in me?"

Crazy Love is a great book because it draws its wisdom from the greatest of all books - the Bible. I would highly recommend it to any pastor, believing that if an entire church would read this book, and be open to change - it would totally transform that church. Here's hoping that you will all become crazy lovers of Jesus.

CAP

Get That Ram!

2011-01-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

Right now I'm reading through Genesis and just finished the story where God asked Abraham to offer Isaac. I can't even imagine how Abraham must have felt. His heart must have sunk when God asked him to give-up the most precious thing in his life. On top of that, Abraham had to journey for three days until God showed him where to offer the sacrifice. What was he thinking during those three days?

Did I really hear God right? Maybe I was mistaken.
Why would God want me to do this when He knows how long we waited for this promised child? Is He trying to torture me?
What have I done wrong? This must be a judgment for some sin in my life.

Ultimately Abraham did as God commanded. He put away his doubts and acted on faith. Because Abraham demonstrated his total obedience, believing that God would keep His covenant, the Lord spared Isaac. But then an interesting thing happened . . .

Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and there behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by its horns. So Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up for a burnt offering instead of his son (Genesis 22:13).

God confirmed Abraham's faith by supplying the provision (a ram caught in a thicket), but the provision was not revealed until Abraham demonstrated his faith. And after the provision was revealed, Abraham still had to grab it and use it for the glory of God. God could have just revealed the ram beforehand, killed it, laid it on the altar to be sacrificed, and lit His own fire - but how would that have strengthened Abraham's faith? All I'm saying is that it's good to have our faith tested from time to time. It's good that God doesn't do everything for us. It's good that we have to wrestle the ram and offer the sacrifice. These experiences deepen our faith and increase our love for God. So the next time you experience a crisis of faith, trust the Lord to provide exactly what is needed for the situation. And once the provision is revealed, get that ram! Receive what God has given and use it for His glory.

CAP

For the Glory of God and the Kingdom

2010-12-31T09:26:00.000-08:00

This January I am launching into a new sermon series entitled For the Glory of God and the Kingdom. On Sunday we will be looking at Luke 17 with the story of the ten lepers. In that story the lepers called Jesus master and begged for his mercy. Jesus tells them to present themselves to the priest and while they are on the way, the lepers are miraculously healed. However, only one of them returns to give glory to God. The Bible does not tell us why the other nine men did not return, but we must be careful not to condemn them before looking at ourselves. How often does God bless us, and we fail to thank him for his blessings? How often do we fail to thank God for the blessings we enjoy on a daily basis? As a church, our desire is to grow, so are we thanking God for what He has already given us, and are we prepared to be entrusted with others? I really don't want to put a time constraint on this message series because the lessons are too important. If we can get a hold of the importance of God's glory and God's kingdom, I believe it will change and transform our church. In January we will have churchwide evangelism training during our Sunday school hour. If we're going to ask God for greater witnessing opportunities, we need to be ready. Let us start the New Year right be preparing for what God is going to do.

CAP

Conference Pics

2010-11-11T07:18:00.000-08:00

Just got some new pics from the conference. If you are interested, check out the new album on FB. I will probably add some of the pics to our Marriage University site at www.marriageuniversity.net.

CAP

Yes It Is Worth It

2010-11-09T20:26:00.000-08:00

We just got back from Gettysburg and had a great conference with Wanted Marriage Ministries at the beautiful Eisenhower Inn. We had the opportunity to teach three sessions and God really blessed. It will be exciting to see what God does with this conference in the future. I'm not sure how you top having Harold and Bette Gillogly as keynote speakers, and music by Calling Levi. We really felt that the couples there were fully engaged and sincerely wanted to put the truths they were learning into practice. For all the Marriage University alumni who read this blog - thank you for your powerful stories and encouragement of our ministry. Whenever Crystal and I drive home from a marriage conference, we are exhausted. But when we ask whether the time and energy was worth it, the answer is always the same, "Yes, it was definitely worth it! You are definitely worth it!" Please stay in touch with us through marriageuniversity.net or look us up on facebook. Love you guys.

CAP

Make Peace, Not War

2010-11-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

We are going to Gettysburg to make peace - not war. Crystal and I have been asked to do three workshops at Growing Together Hand in Hand, a conference put on by Wanted Marriage Ministries. This conference was organized in response to LifeWay's Festival of Marriage pulling out of Ocean City, Maryland. The keynote speakers for this event are Harold and Bette Gillogly, and Calling Levi will be leading the worship. Whenever we teach at an event, we always ask friends and readers to pray for us. In an event this big, there are bound to be husbands and wives who see this conference as their last ditch effort to stay together. We know that we're headed into spiritual warfare because the devil would love nothing more than to destroy these couples and devastate their children. If your church does not currently have a marriage ministry, you might want to pray for God's guidance (and your pastor's blessing) in starting one. Your pastor may already have too much on his plate to lead this kind of ministry, but a successful marriage ministry might lighten his counseling load and strengthen the church overall.

CAP

Born to Be Wild

2010-09-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

I pulled into the church parking lot like I do most days, went into the building and started towards the stairs to put my lunch in the refrigerator, when there was a knock at the door. I opened the door and was confronted by a rugged middle-aged man named Kevin who had obviously led a rough life. He wore a t-shirt with a flaming skeleton riding a motorcycle, a hat that said "Rebel" and sported tatoos on his arms. At first I was apprehensive, but that all changed when, a few moments later, Kevin broke down crying right in front of me. He told me that his brother recently died of heart failure, and that he was looking for some kind of closure for his brother's death. I began to talk to him about Jesus Christ, but he said, "I don't believe my brother was saved, but I don't believe in hell." I said, "We don't get to decide what we want to believe about God, and what God has placed in His Bible. The same Bible that tells us that there is a heaven also tells us that there is a hell - we cannot pick one and leave out the other." I asked him if he was with his brother when he died, and Kevin said no. "Then how do you know that he didn't call on the name of the Lord before he died?" Kevin did not know. In fact, he told me that his brother was afraid to die. I did not want to offer false hope, but sometimes we assume that a person died lost, when they could have called on Jesus before they died. The thief on the cross had nothing to offer God, but in the last moments of his earthly life, he called out to Christ and God saved him. I was able to share Jesus Christ with Kevin and challenge him to get into a good Bible-believing church when he gets home to Jacksonville, Florida. He told me that he was just sitting over at the bus station across the street, waiting for his ride, when he saw me pull up to the church. Kevin said, "Something told me, go across the street and talk to that man, and I sure am glad I did." I was glad too. We can plan our days and fill in our calendars, but God doesn't wait for appointments. Before Kevin left, we had prayer together. He gripped my hand tightly and I asked the Lord to give him the closure needed in his life. With tears in his eyes, this rugged traveler gave me a big hug and joined his ride leaving Fredericksburg. Afterwards, I thanked God for reminding me that He still speaks to the hearts of people. Out of the blue, God can send someone our way who desperately needs a representative for Jesus Christ. And when He does, we must be ready.

CAP

A Proud Papa

2010-08-25T09:00:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, my daughter came onto the platform at the end of the service and (in front of the whole congregation) whispered in my ear, "Daddy, I'm ready to be baptized." It caught me completely by surprise and made me very proud. On Sunday Lauren followed through with her commitment and I had the privilege of baptizing my own daughter. How many people get to do that? It was really cool. Another thing that was cool was how a video clip we showed in the service a few weeks ago influenced another little boy in our church to get baptized. After watching the video, he told his mother, "I want to be baptized." We are living in a visual generation, so why not use what will reach them, and challenge them to live for God? When I think about this world, it has nothing good to offer our children. We have to teach our kids to be in the world, but not of the world. We have to lead today's youth to follow Christ because serving Him is the only thing that will bring lasting satisfaction, both here and in eternity. I don't know the future, but my daughter just took a step in the right direction - and for that, I'm a proud papa.

CAP

Where Is the God of Elijah?

2010-08-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

I promised to blog about the end of our Elijah series since we were running short on time two weeks ago. I mentioned that God wants us to have hearts like Elisha in that he would not leave Elijah's side no matter what. We need to have some holy ambition and hold on tight to God, even when it might seem like God is the one pushing us away (Matthew 15:21-28 and Luke 11:5-10). But beyond seeing ourselves in Elisha, I believe we see Jesus in Elijah. There are many similarities with both of these powerful prophets. Elijah and Jesus performed many miracles, stood for righteousness, walked closely with God (though Jesus is God), finished their earthly ministry, were taken alive into heaven (of course Jesus was resurrected), had witnesses that watched their ascension, and both will return in the last days (John 14:1-3 and Malachi 4:5). The real question is, do you believe we are living in the last days? Do you agree with Peter's words in Acts 2 when he said, "Save yourselves from this perverse generation?" If we are living in the last days (and I believe we are) then it should cause us to have a sense of urgency when it comes to sharing our faith with others. All around us are lost people who will spend eternity somewhere, and we have the message they need to hear to be saved - saved from a perverse generation. We might live to, one day see Christ's return for His church. And on that day, all believers will be like Elijah and Jesus, called up to be with God for all eternity. What a day that will be.

CAP
Elijah picture from Crossroads Fellowship in Raleigh, NC

An Offering God Can Respect

2010-07-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

I'm currently reading through the Bible and came across something interesting in Genesis 4:3-5. The Bible says, "And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the LORD. Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the LORD respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering." Notice how God joins each person to their offering - Abel and his offering . . . Cain and his offering. I've often heard the teaching that the reason God rejected Cain's offering was because it was not an animal sacrifice. I'm not sure this is right. Pastor Robert Morris in The Blessed Life points out that Abel brought of the first of his flock, but Cain brought his offering in the process of time. God received other offerings in the Bible that were not animal (blood) sacrifices, so what's the problem? The problem was Cain's heart, not his offering. And because Cain's heart was not right, he did not revere God highly enough to put him first the way Abel did. This is evident later when Cain kills Abel and has the audacity to say to God, "Am I my brother's keeper?" So God sees our offerings as linked to the condition of our hearts. And we are not just talking about financial offerings, but even our offering of praise that we bring every Sunday. If our hearts are right with God (notice I did not say perfect), then God receives our offerings as worship to Him. If our hearts are not right, then God does not care to receive our offerings because they don't mean anything. I've heard some pastors say, "God wants you to be a cheerful giver - but He'll take it from any old grump." But I say, if it makes you grumpy to give to God (time, talent, treasure) then don't - because from what I can see, He won't accept it anyway. So the next time you offer something to God, you might want to pause and ask yourself, "Is my heart right with God?" Because if it's not, sin might be crouching at the door.

CAP

This Is Good

2010-07-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

The story is told of a king in Africa who had a close friend with whom he grew up. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and saying, "This is good!" One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition. The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his friend, the king fired it and his thumb was blown off. Examining the situation, the friend remarked as usual, "This is good!" To which the king replied, "No, this is not good!" and proceeded to send his friend to jail. About a year later, the king was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. Cannibals captured him and took him to their village. They tied his hands, stacked some wood, set up a stake and bound him to the stake. As they came near to set fire to the wood, they noticed that the king was missing a thumb. Being superstitious, they never ate anyone who was less than whole. So untying the king, they sent him on his way. As he returned home, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his friend. "You were right," he said, "it was good that my thumb was blown off." And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. "And so, I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this." "No," his friend replied, "This is good!" "What do you mean, 'This is good'? How could it be good that I sent my friend to jail for a year?" "If I had not been in jail, I would have been with you."

Last week the A/C went out in our house. The heat was stifling, but thankfully my sister had a window unit we could borrow to cool the downstairs for a few days. Today I got to see an old friend who I worked for nearly twenty years ago. He fixed my A/C and only charged me $270 vs. the over $600 that a local company wanted to charge. Just being around him took me back to a time when I was younger, stronger, and had few responsibilities. Today things are different. I am older, hopefully a little wiser - and my life abounds with responsibilities. Now I wouldn't trade my life for anything, but it felt nice to talk about simpler times. So it was good that the air conditioning went out in our house. Sure the last few days were inconvenient, but our mini-crisis created a circumstance that allowed me to reconnect with an old friend. Whenever things seem to go bad, just remember, God might be getting ready to do something good in your life.

CAP
Illustration provided from Sermon Central

Convinced and Confident Because of God's Love

2010-07-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger - Rev. Rippert Roberts, Jr.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

You can have amazing confidence when facing life's challenges once you are convinced of God's love for you.
No matter what you may lose in this life you will never lose God’s love. No matter what you may gain in this life you will have nothing of greater value than God’s love.
You can’t run far enough or fast enough to escape God’s love for you. You will never fall so low that God’s love won’t reach you. God has passionately pursued you for the sake of His love. In fact He loved you into existence and then gave you the gift of His love-child Jesus to remove anything that could ever possibly separate you from His love. Times may be hard right now. The outcome of situations or circumstances may be uncertain. You may even be in a place where you are wondering why God has allowed certain events to come into your life. God knows and He understands. He saw this day of your life before it ever arrived. He made certain that you would not face today with out His love being available to you.
Today there is nothing that you will encounter, experience or endure that God’s love wont be present and turned toward you.
Look for it. You will find it.
God will show His love for you in a number of ways.
Some of them will be fairly easy to spot. Take those opportunities to be grateful.
Some may come in unexpected ways. Take those opportunities to be amazed!
God’s love may come in the form of discipline. That’s your opportunity to change.
God’s love will give you an overwhelming victory in any and every difficulty.
You can choose to enter this day knowing that nothing can ever separate you from God’s love.
Death can’t do it. He showed you that through the resurrection of Jesus Christ when even death and the grave came up empty in the face of His love for you. (Oh and make no mistake that was about you!)
Life can’t do it. He showed you that when Jesus died for you. (Yep, that was for you too!)
The angels can’t. (Yea, they’re real)
The demons can’t. (They’re real too)
Not even the powers of hell can separate you from the love that God has for you.
Your fears for today and worries about tomorrow may cause you to be anxious but they can’t keep God’s love away from you.
You may take some convincing.
That’s okay. God understands.
He will be patient with you until you are won over.
Then you will know the confidence that comes with being convinced of God's love for you.

Taking Time to Celebrate

2010-07-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we looked at an incredible reversal of fortune when Elijah, who had just called down fire from heaven, ran for his life after hearing Jezebel's dark promise. In 1 Kings 18, God gave Elijah a life changing victory, and the enemy blindsided him with a threat on his very life. Have you ever experienced a glorious victory, only to be bombarded with bitter disappointment? Have you ever won a battle, only to have your character questioned and integrity maligned? It is the nature of the enemy to try and steal what God has given. He doesn't want you living in victory. He doesn't want you giving God glory with your life. So there are two things we need to understand. First, when a victory comes, celebrate it. God wants us to acknowledge and celebrate the victories that He gives to us. And don't wait too long or one day you might question if it was ever a victory at all. Second, stay on guard. It is possible to celebrate and keep a watchful eye. When Nehemiah rebuilt the wall, his workers carried their weapons while finishing the construction. When you get a chance, read Nehemiah chapter 4 and look at the mindset of the people. No matter how much progress they made, there was still a determination to stay focused on the task at hand. What if Elijah had not run away? Would Jezebel have killed him? We will never know for sure, but my guess is that God would have rescued Elijah because He still had work for Elijah to do (1 Kings 19:15-18). What is God doing in your life right now? Are there any victories that you are taking for granted? Take time to celebrate those victories before the wicked one convinces you that they never existed.

CAP

Our Best Foot Forward

2010-04-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

Recently, the ladies of Ignite (our college and young professionals ministry) held a spa night at the church. They invited the women from a local homeless shelter to come and be pampered at our makeshift spa. Now I must confess that, as a man, I don't understand the desire that most women have to let total strangers care for their feet. For her birthday, my wife wanted a gift certificate for a pedicure at a local nail salon. When paying the bill, I looked to the back and saw a man sitting in a special chair with his pant legs rolled up, getting a pedicure - hairy legs and all. It was disgusting. I can understand if a man has medical issues (diabetes, etc.) and needs a pedicure for health reasons. Otherwise, that's just nasty. Now what was I saying? Oh yeah, caring for other people's feet. Our church has never held a foot washing service, but if we did, I imagine most members would quickly pour the water, apply the towel and feel good for having emulated Jesus. But what these young ladies did the other night took foot washing to another level. They humbled themselves, understanding, but for the grace of God, any of us could be homeless. The women of the shelter were treated like royalty. Most of us would never touch another person's feet, but our Ignite ladies washed, moisturized and painted the nails of stranger's feet. They served in other ways as well, but this one example reminded me of Jesus more than any other. I am so proud of Ignite. They really are on fire for God and it shows. Our focus should be outward and our service should impact those who don't know Jesus. Last Sunday, a lady visiting our church for the first time approached me and said, "Pastor, I am one of those ladies from the shelter who attended the spa the other night." She was served on Friday and came back on Sunday - all because a group of college students picked up the towel and basin and decided to care for others in Jesus name. Way to go Ignite.

CAP

What's Cool About God

2010-04-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

This week our family had the opportunity to return to a place that holds a lot of powerful memories for me - The Children's House at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. Our son was born nearly three months premature and we lived at The Children's House for one month while Joshua was growing strong enough to be moved to Fredericksburg. Joshua is five now and we wanted to give back to a place that was such a blessing to us, so on Thursday (the day before Joshua's birthday), we served dinner for all the current residents. While there, we met a woman who lives in Gettysburg, PA. We told her that we had accepted an invitation to speak at a marriage conference in Gettysburg this November and the conference was being held at the Eisenhower Inn. She said that she lived so close to the Eisenhower Inn that if we stood on the back balcony, we could see her backyard. Amazing. We went to The Children's House to serve, and met someone who lives right beside the very place that we will be speaking at in just a few months. What are the chances? Maybe a better question is, "What are the chances that it's not God?" We don't always know why God allows trials in our lives, and why He causes our paths to collide with total strangers - but often those strangers need something from us, or we need something from them. In this instance, we were able to minister to this woman and her daughter (who had cancer). God used my family to serve a hot meal and encourage those residents, while demonstrating the power of His providence. When Crystal and I go to Gettysburg in November, we hope to meet up with this dear lady and daughter again. Who knows where this journey will end - but then again, that's what's so cool about God. He doesn't need us to know all the answers. He just wants us to take the journey and trust Him for the outcome.

CAP

Controversial? Yes. Mean Spirited? No.

2010-03-10T06:22:00.000-08:00

Beginning Easter Sunday, I will be preaching a new series entitled "Confessions Of A Former Catholic." The series will center around four specific questions that I asked my priest twenty-three years ago, soon after receiving Christ into my life. The series will deal with topics like - our access to God, baptism, assurance of salvation and the importance of spending time in God's Word. For anyone who is Catholic (or has a Catholic background) and is reading this blog, I want to let you know that this series will not be mean-spirited. I have a great appreciation for the Catholic's stand against abortion, for relief efforts, and good works done in the community. As a teenager I worked for Catholic Charities, sorting and boxing food items for needy families. My priest played Santa Claus at Christmastime and was one of the kindest men I've ever known. The Catholic church does a lot of good things, but adherence to strict Catholic doctrine means trying to have a relationship with God through sacramental works. And yet, Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us that we are not saved by our works, but by God's grace. That was the greatest lesson that I learned twenty-three years ago and I hope to convey that message beginning Easter Sunday. So if you have a Catholic background and are full of questions like I was - please come. I would love to talk with you. In the end, we may have to agree to disagree, but if our conversation causes you to pursue God with a greater passion, then we both win. Hope to see you April 4th.

CAP

A Walk of the Wild Side

2010-03-08T16:37:00.000-08:00

I'm almost finished reading John Eldredge's book Wild at Heart. It was published in 2001, so I'm only nine years late. In the book, Eldredge talks about man's need for adventure and how that need is evidenced in boys. He chides parents who won't let their little boys play with toy guns because they will just make guns out of sticks if they have to. Big boys need adventure just like little ones. How many wives are living with men who have gone silent. The romantic charmer they fell in love with has been replaced by a quiet, unfeeling pacifist. Ladies, let me ask you, "Do you provide opportunities for your husband to have adventures?" Now I know what you are saying. "What about me? When do I get a break from my responsibilities? When do I get a break from the kids to have some time to myself?" And I agree. You are right and you deserve that. But for this blog, I would like to concentrate on the guys. Eldredge believes that if a man does not have an outlet for adventure, he will seek adventure in other places - affairs, pornography, etc. His feelings of being trapped without adventure can also lead to irritability and anger that will impact his ability to be a good husband and father. So ladies, let your man be a man. If his idea of adventure seems a little wild - so be it. If it seems a little dangerous - all the better. Don't emasculate him! Let him be what God made him to be. He will be a better husband and father for it. And guys, it wouldn't hurt for you in turn to watch the kids and give your wife a holiday. She deserves the bubble bath. She deserves the hot tea and a good book. She deserves to be able to go shopping for herself or meet a girlfriend at the local cafe for some girl talk. Maybe she would be more open to creating an opening for your adventure if you would meet her needs as well. So guys, if your domestication is making you a little edgy - it might be time to do something wild.

CAP

Using God for Gain

2010-01-21T13:27:00.000-08:00

Our church is currently in the middle of a series in the book of Malachi entitled "What People are Saying." Constantly throughout the book, God tells His people that He knows what they are saying - and why they are saying it. In chapter 2, God deals directly with the priests who are failing to give glory to His name. They are misrepresenting God to the people. And yet, at the solemn feasts, these same priests still take the choice parts of the animals sacrificed for their own livelihood. One of those choice parts is the maw (or stomach). It doesn't sound very appetizing to me, but then again, I pour hot sauce on everything I eat - so I'm probably not a very good judge. Apparently, before you can eat the stomach, you must clean it out thoroughly because it has refuse in it. In Malachi 2:3, God tells the priests that He will spread the refuse (from the sacrifices) on their faces. It's as if God is saying, "This is how you are causing people to think of me." The priests used their status and position to get what they wanted, and did not care how the people viewed God. It reminds me that as a pastor, I must always present God for who He really is. When Moses struck the rock (Numbers 20), instead of speaking to it as God commanded, he misrepresented God before the people and paid a terrible price. We are all called to give glory to God's name and the best way to do that is to show the unchurched who God really is. When people come to us with real problems, they need us to introduce them to a real God.

CAP

Little Like Me

2010-01-06T06:47:00.000-08:00

I know I blog an awful lot about my kids, but isn't it amazing how God refreshes our thinking vicariously through the experiences of our children? A few days ago, my son (excited about his Christmas toys) asked, "Daddy, do you want to play with me?" I told him I did and the next words he spoke were profound - "Daddy, you'll have to become little like me." In his mind, I couldn't truly have fun with him unless I was little like he was. What does that remind you of? Matthew 18:2-3 says, "Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven." True faith is childlike in its simplicity and that is what the world cannot comprehend. My brother-in-law is a gamer and asked me to get on YouTube and do a search for XBox 360 - Project Natal. I was intrigued by what I saw because in the near future, gamers will no longer need controllers to play games. The game system will be able to recognize body movements - making controllers obsolete. How is it that R&D scientists can invent technology that will allow us to move our hands and feet to control a video game, but we have a hard time believing that an omniscient intelligent designer (God) can create the universe and order everything in it? Evolutionists will not allow themselves to think like children, even though science mimics the creation process. How big is our God? The bigger He is, the littler we all must become.

CAP

Going Primal

2009-12-21T19:18:00.000-08:00

Nineteen months ago I went to The White House for the National Day of Prayer and thoroughly enjoyed hearing President Bush speak (for the last time as president) on the importance of prayer. I invited a pastor friend to go with me and afterwards he suggested going to a coffeehouse near Union Station called Ebenezers. He told me about a creative pastor named Mark Batterson and hoped we would get a chance to meet him. I must admit, I had never heard of Mark but he sounded like someone I could appreciate. As it turned out, Mark Batterson was available and took time to talk with us. He was very gracious and answered all our questions. My friend asked me if I had read Mark's book, In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day, to which I said no. One week later I knew why he raved about it so much. After getting my own copy I devoured it within a few days. How could Mark ever hope to best In a Pit and his last publication, Wild Goose Chase . . . by going primal. Primal - A quest for the lost soul of Christianity just came out and all I can say is "unbelievable!" Mark Batterson was already a good writer, but Primal proves that he has matured into a great writer. In Primal, Mark takes us on a journey down the stairs in The Church of San Clemente in Rome, and backwards through the portals of time to a place where Christianity is raw and untamed. He invites the reader to rediscover the wonder of who God is, and helps us to understand how we can know the Creator of the universe in new and more meaningful ways. For me personally, I appreciate Mark's transparency about his own Christian walk and his honesty to admit what most pastors are afraid to - namely that there are times when God seems silent. There are times when pastors walk in the wilderness too. The important thing is not to stay there and Primal is a great book for helping Christians renew their love relationship for God and His Word. If you are looking for a great read this Christmas, I would highly recommend Mark Batterson's Primal. If it hasn't hit your local bookstore yet, you can find it by going to RandomHouse.com. Have a Merry Christmas.

CAP

Thoughts from the Festival of Marriage

2009-11-19T16:37:00.000-08:00

It might seem strange that I am blogging about the annual Festival of Marriage (FOM) from nearly two weeks ago, but it has taken that long to digest much of what happened there in Ocean City. First, all of our workshops were well attended and we thank God for that. Some couples even brought chairs from other rooms to attend. We can prepare the material and pray for God's blessings - but He is the One who gives the increase. This was our third year teaching for LifeWay and we appreciate the professionalism of Mark Satterfield and the event staff. All we had to do is show up and minister to the couples, and there were a lot of couples in need. As a pastor, when I counsel, there are usually opportunities to see the end result, but at these conferences we have to have faith that the couples we train will follow through, using the new tools in their marriage toolbox. FOM is an incredibly fulfilling and powerful event that leaves you in amazement days (and even weeks) after it is over. As we said last year, there is no way of knowing how many years the Lord will allow us to continue teaching at FOM. So until the invitations stop, we will seek to impact as many couples as we can.

CAP

Not Ashamed to Beg

2009-11-02T10:04:00.000-08:00

On Thursday we will leave for Ocean City, Maryland to teach at the Festival of Marriage(FOM) for LifeWay. This is the third year that we have been asked to lead workshops for FOM and we don't take the privilege lightly. One of the realities that keeps us grounded is knowing that these workshops could make the difference with couples who are about to call it quits. The last time we were in OC, we spent nearly as much time counseling between workshops as teaching. Couples are hurting and marriages are in danger of falling apart. So this is a begging blog. Since you are reading this, won't you please take a few minutes and pray for those couples coming to FOM? Crystal and I need your prayers for strength to teach in the power of God's Holy Spirit. Powerless teaching is not an option because the kids of these couples will ultimately suffer if their parents can't make it work. So add us to your prayer list. Everyone is busy, and you might not have much time - but if you can't give minutes to pray, we'll take whatever moments you can spare. Just throw us a bone. Thanks.

CAP

Like Pulling Teeth

2009-09-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to the orthodontist to have a tooth extracted. Believe it or not, it was a baby tooth that did not have a permanent tooth underneath - so it just sat there for all these years. Before the extraction, I asked my tormentor if the tooth really had to come out. The pain I experienced a couple of days before had subsided a little, so maybe pulling it was unnecessary. He told me that I could deal with the problem now with minimal pain, or come back later when it would be excruciating. I opted for minimal pain. Problems are a lot like a bad tooth. If you deal with them quickly, there will be discomfort but soon things begin to heal. If you wait too long, problems never go away - they always get worse. It may seem like there is peace for awhile but the infection is still there under the surface, ready to come back with a vengeance. Are you putting off dealing with something because you know there will be conflict? Are you resisting having a talk with that person who really needs it? Don't! In the end you are only prolonging their handicap. Deal with it now and learn whatever lessons God has for you. It may be like pulling teeth, but trust me, you'll be glad you did.

CAP

Faking It

2009-09-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

I believe God is leading our church into greater depths of authenticity, which is why we are starting our Fake message series this Sunday. Over the next several weeks we will be taking a hard look at things in society that are fake - religion, friends and finances. But perhaps the most difficult thing that we will examine is the fakeness found in ourselves. As I see it, this is what is missing in our churches today. How could that ragtag band of believers in Acts 2 stay in prayer for ten days waiting on the Holy Spirit? Where did that passion come from? I believe it came out of the authenticity of their relationship with Jesus. We are living in the last days and there should be a sense of urgency in the church about reaching lost people with the gospel. But we will never have a corporate sense of urgency in our churches if individual members (and pastors) are not willing to find what's fake in their lives and trade it for truth. Don't be fake!

When you have time, read Matthew 7:21-23

CAP

Stress Test

2009-08-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

We recently had a problem with an outdoor faucet and had to call in the experts. Our plumber replaced the faulty faucet and inserted a gauge to test the water pressure. When he turned the water on, a greater problem was revealed. There was a split in the copper pipe that wouldn't have been caught if pressure had not been applied. So pressure is a good thing. Pressure helps to reveal where the flaws are. It works for copper pipes and for personal character. God allows us to live in seasons of pressure because he is forming us into the image of His Son. And while we might not be able to control an atmosphere of pressure, we can control the handle of the spigot. We can examine our own physical, spiritual, mental and emotional health, and control what we'll allow to come into our lives each day. If my batteries are charged-up, I can loosen the handle to take on a little more. If I'm feeling drained, I can tighten it. Of course there are emergencies that are beyond a person's control, but most of the time we have the ability to choose. Wayne Cordeiro said it this way - ". . . no one will monitor your energy level or your personal and emotional health." He said that, "One day when you lie in the hospital, suffering from fatigue and stress, they (friends, family, church members) will say, "Why, he should have taken better care of himself!" This is not just true for pastors, but for everyone. So watch the gauges, and be sure to allow more things into your life that strengthen you, rather than drain you. My visit from the plummer was not cheap, but it certainly costs less than a stay in the local hospital.

When you have time, read 1 Corinthian 10:13

CAP

The Hero Inside

2009-07-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

I was reading my new Collide magazine yesterday and came across an interesting article on why we tend to love the antiheroes of today. You might be asking, "Craig, what is an antihero?" An antihero is a severely flawed individual who is the main character or hero of a story. We find ourselves cheering for them even if we would never want to be them. The reason people exchange their heroes for antiheroes is because many of their heroes are flawless. We cannot relate to Superman because he is perfect. He has no real problems. But all of us, living in the real world, have real problems. So we gravitate to characters who have human failings and hope for some redemption to take place in their lives. The problem is, if they ever get that redemption and change for the better - we probably won't like them anymore. If you have a relationship with Jesus Christ, in a way, you are an antihero. I don't mean this negatively. We all have our weaknesses because of the sin nature inside of us. But Christ also dwells in us and because of Him, we can do heroic things. We can make a difference in this world, not just for time, but for eternity.

CAP

A Spiritual Workout

2009-07-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

In the past, when I went to the gym, it was kinda . . . boring. Twenty minutes on the elliptical seemed like twenty hours. I couldn't wait to get off and go do something else. When I started taking my iPod with me to work out, thirty minutes seemed like thirty seconds. I just dialed up some Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns or a sermon podcast and before I knew it, my cardio was over and it was time to move to the weights. By making my workout more spiritual, I enjoyed it more. There are many activities in this life that seem mundane, but could actually be times of refreshing - a mini oasis in the middle of an otherwise predictable day. How could you include God when you . . .

Commute to and from your job
Sit in a waiting room
Fly on an airplane
Take your lunch break
Are laid up in a hospital bed
Are put on hold waiting for tech support

If we truly believe that God orders our steps, then we must treat our down times as providential. Pray for somebody who needs it. Look to see if there is anyone around you that God wants you to talk to? I had a salesperson tell me her life story after she already made a sale to the church. I was able to share Christ with her on the telephone. Maybe you could even journal about what God is doing in your life. Just don't do it while you're driving.

CAP

Throwing the Box Away

2009-07-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

The message of the gospel should never change, but the methods we use to deliver that message should be ever-changing. The longer I pastor, the more I am convinced that the church today looks very little like the one we see in the book of Acts. We have created a religious box and put God inside - at least the god conceived in our minds. The one true God cannot be contained by our traditions. At Kingdom, we are thinking outside the box and I love it. On Wednesday nights, some of our small groups are meeting in area cafes for Bible study and fellowship. Parents can drop their kids off at the church and be at their life group within five minutes. Having so many cafes nearby allows us to take our faith outside the sanctuary walls and into the community. Most churches doing small groups meet in homes, and that's cool, but studying God's Word in Starbucks or Caribou Coffee is just awesome. As the culture changes, it will become increasingly necessary to think outside the box - or just throw the box away. Churches cannot continue to do things the way they've always been done. If we foster a take it or leave it attitude, unchurched people will just leave it. If we are going to go backwards in our thinking, let's go all the way back to the beginning when all the church had was Jesus and the abiding presence of the Spirit of God. Let us remember that the simple growth plan for the first church was an emphasis on God's Word, fellowship, breaking bread and prayer (Acts 2:41-47). Let's start there and ask God what what he wants the church to look like today.

CAP

I'll Walk Right Beside You

2009-05-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

My son is growing up. He used to want me to carry him. He used to want to hold my hand. Now he wants to do everything himself. I guess that's OK. I certainly don't want him living in my basement at 30, with no job, playing video games in his underwear. Yesterday we were out at a store and I said, "Son, hold daddy's hand." To which he said, "I'll walk right beside you daddy." Of course that lasted all of 15 seconds before I had to call to him again. When my son got too far ahead, or lagged to far behind, I would ask him to hold my hand and he would repeat his new declaration of independence. Finally, when Joshua said, "I'll walk right beside you daddy," I answered, "Are you really going to walk right beside me?" It was then that it hit me. How often do we promise God that we will walk right beside Him, only to run too far ahead, or lag too far behind? Walking with God means just that - walking with Him. When we get ahead of God, our best plans are disastrous. When we fall behind, we miss out on what God is doing all around us. The best place we can possibly be is walking right beside our God.

CAP

All Is Right in the World

2009-04-07T11:33:00.001-07:00

I know that we are fighting two wars, facing a financial crisis that rivals The Great Depression (or at least the Carter years), job losses, banking problems, world hunger, the AIDS epidemic, corrupt politicians, bailouts, illegal missle tests, border conflicts - and I could go on. But today, all is right in the world because my Tarheels are the national champs. Way to go UNC!

CAP

A True Honor

2009-04-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

I recently had the honor of officiating a funeral for a retired Washington, DC Capitol Police officer. The night before, at the viewing, there was a changing of the guard, as two officers stood watch over his body. The next day we had the funeral at Quantico with a full honor guard. It was incredibly impressive. I must admit that I still get choked-up whenever I see the American Flag folded and presented to the spouse of the fallen officer. As I drove away from the graveside, it reminded me of the importance of honor and dedication. When someone gives their life for the good of others, we should take time to honor that person. John Maxwell says, "If you want to know how important you are, just remember that 15 minutes after you're body is in the ground, everyone will be back at the church eating potato salad." Sad - but true. How amazing would it be if we got into the habit of honoring those we love before they die. I want my family to know how much I appreciate them now. I want my friends to know how much I appreciate them now. I want to eat my potato salad with a clear conscience. Take time for honor, because if we don't, our sense of morality won't mean much.

CAP

Bragging On God

2009-03-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

One of the fun things I like to do with my son is flex my arm and say, "Joshua, what is that?" To which he will say, "That's a big muscle!" He is an intelligent boy. Lauren is too old now to tell me what I want to hear. In Daniel 9:3-7 we see a prayer that would be a good model for each of us. Daniel takes time to brag on God before asking God for a thing. In fact, it's not until v.17 that we even see a request from Daniel. I believe that we need to take time to brag on our Heavenly Father before we ask Him for things. I know that He is God and that He is totally self-sufficient, but I believe the Lord does appreciate it when we acknowledge all of His awesome attributes. So the next time you want to ask God for something - make sure to tell Him how big His muscles are first.

Psalm 89:13
You have a mighty arm;Strong is Your hand . . .

personal photo donated by Pastor Polston . . . yeah right.

CAP

A Heart on Fire for God

2009-03-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday morning I was looking over my message again before getting ready for church - reading the biblical story of Elijah and the widow. 1 Kings 17:8-9 says, Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying, “Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you. Yet when Elijah found the woman, she was not preparing a meal for him, but for herself and her son. In fact, I have to wonder if she was trying to make and eat the meal as quickly as possible before Elijah got there. Elijah had to teach her a valuable lesson that many Christians have not learned - namely that God expects us to put Him first in everything we do. God wants the first part of our day, the first day of our week, the first part of our income and first place above all other relationships. If we want to live lives that are Spirit-filled and walk with steps ordered by the Lord, we must make Jesus Christ priority number one. When the men of our church returned from a recent Bible conference in North Carolina, one man asked how we can continue to have that feeling that comes from attending an exciting event. The only way that I know for a Christian to have a heart on fire for God is to listen as God speaks through His Word - and respond by speaking to Him in prayer. It might not sound new and fresh, but it works. Give God first place and see what happens.

CAP

I Was Afraid This Might Happen

2009-03-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

In Job chapter 3, Job says something that I never noticed before. He said, "For the thing I greatly feared has come upon me, and what I dreaded has happened to me." Is it possible that this man of God had a secret fear - that all he possessed would one day be taken away? If that is true and the devil knew it, then it makes perfect sense that the devil would attack Job by creating his worst fear. What do you fear? If you know what it is, then chances are the enemy knows as well and would love to get God's permission to make your fears come true. Conforming to the image of Christ means facing our fears. Jesus was troubled at the thought of being separated from His Father and asked for the cup of judgment to pass from Him. But ultimately our Lord said, "Not my will, but your will be done." Conquering our fears has more to do with trusting God and less to do with relying on the power of our own will. When we refuse to trust God we are giving leverage to the enemy that will be used against us when we are most vulnerable. Face your fears.

CAP

When you have time, read Job 3

With Friends Like These . . .

2009-03-04T10:17:00.001-08:00

I've been doing some reading in the book of Job lately and wanted to share a personal observation. We all know that Job's friends were unkind and ultimately disciplined by God, but have you ever read what they said to Job about God? Much of what they said was right - so why did God have to rebuke them? The reason . . . because they attributed motives to God that were not true. They assumed that God was punishing Job for his sins, or the sins of his children, but that was not the case. It's a reminder that we must be careful about telling people we know God's will when we don't. We cannot attribute motives to God when we do not understand the way He thinks. It's only by His Spirit that we can understand His Word, and even that can be challenging at times. God is God and He is the only one who truly understands what He is thinking. So the next time you are asked to give counsel, be careful not to pretend to know the mind of God. Allow your counsel to come from scripture and let God reveal the "why" of His plan to them personally.

CAP

When you have time, read Job 5:17-27

Going All The Way Baby!

2009-02-12T09:03:00.000-08:00

Last night I had an incredible spiritual experience - watching my Tarheels beat the Duke Blue Devils. Now I know there are a lot of Duke fans out there, and I feel your pain, but the only thing better that watching Carolina beat Duke would be watching Carolina win a national championship. I read a smack sign on facebook that said, "If you hate Duke, breathe." Now I don't hate Duke. In fact, if UNC were out of contention for the championship, I would cheer for Duke . . . or any ACC team. But on a day like today, I have to say, "Ha! We won, we won, we won." Now you might be saying, "Craig, where is the spiritual application in this blog?" Here it is. I am bragging, and you should not do that. In fact, I'm sure that I am sinning and will need to repent . . . tomorrow.

CAP

Prescription for Unbelief

2009-02-03T14:33:00.000-08:00

I know I write about my kids a lot, but they do say the cutest things. Last night I read Joshua a Bible story before bed and told him I would stay with him while he said his prayers. Lauren has been sick, so Joshua was sure to pray for her, "Dear Jesus, thank you for Lauren's feeling better." My son is still learning how to pray, but I love how children have an automatic faith that God will do what we tell them He can do - even when we have trouble believing it ourselves. Even though Lauren was sick, to Joshua, Lauren's feeling better was a done deal. How often do we say that we believe God can do something, yet allow the memories of the past to tell us otherwise. In Mark 9, there is a man whose son has a mute spirit. When Jesus asks him how long he has lived that way, the father tells him from childhood. Jesus then asks the father if he believes and the father says something remarkable, "Lord I believe, help my unbelief." In other words, "Jesus, I want you to take full control and I will trust you for the results." Isn't it amazing how much we can trust God when we are desperate for His intervention?

When you have time, read the story in Mark 9
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Dream Team

2009-01-24T12:11:00.000-08:00

John Maxwell challenges people to come up with one example of someone doing something of great significance - without the help of others. We all have dreams of what we want in life. Hopefully those dreams have passed through the filter of God's Word and will help many people if they come true. The question is, what are you doing to help others realize their dreams? On Friday I drove my daughter to school as my wife was preparing to take a three hour trip to her brother's house. Crystal was planning to be gone until Sunday and Lauren was asking why mommy had to be gone for so long. "Lauren, mommy is going up to help aunt Amy because uncle Billy is away, training to own his very own Chick-Fil-A restaurant." I told Lauren that we were helping uncle Billy as he pursues his dream. What are your dreams and who do you have on your team to help make those dreams come true? Maybe a better questions is, "Do you look for opportunities to help others make their dreams come true?" It should make us feel good to see others excel and know that we played a part. Ask those around you what their dreams are, then get on their dream team. The people you bless may be the ones that God uses to help you fulfill your wildest dreams.

Even Nehemiah needed help to fulfill his dream of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. Read Nehemiah 2.
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Presidential Providence

2009-01-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

While there are those who are disenchanted with President Bush, I truly appreciate him and am thankful that he was our President for the last eight years. While many may argue with his policies, we cannot argue with the biblical truth that it is God who sets up kings and it is God who removes them. During Bush's second run for The White House, I remember John Kerry desperately needing some television coverage right before the election. Then former President Reagan died - and the country was reminded of a great Republican President. At Reagan's funeral, President Bush gave one of the best speeches ever and later went on to secure his second term. Bush has certainly benefited from many of these "coincidences" over the years. Now, as he prepares to leave office, how fitting that the President, whose first term was symbolized with the airplanes of 9/11, now departs with the symbol of an airplane - US Airways flight 1459 that recently crash landed in the Hudson River. The first planes symbolize a terrible tragedy while the latter plane symbolizes hope and courage. How unbelievable that this recent episode would happen on the same day that Bush delivered his farewell address to the nation. I know that even now, as Bush has one foot out the door, there are angry people who have to get in their last hateful opinion. But as long as Bush defines his success as having kept America safe so that his detractors could be alive to have an opinion, he will win. Thank you President Bush!

Another Way to Win

2009-01-13T07:25:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to a parent/teacher event at my daughter's school. The kids got their report cards - then had the opportunity to perform for all of the adults present in the classroom. They played a tic-tac-toe spelling game with the girls pitted against the boys. When my daughter was asked to spell the word polite, she did so (flawlessly I might add) and went to place her X on the board to win the game. But instead of winning, she placed her X in another spot and extended the game a little longer, giving the girls two possible routes to win. After the girls won, I asked her why she didn't just end the game when she had the chance. She said, "Daddy, I wanted to make sure our team had another way to win." Her comments blessed me in two ways. First, she doesn't have a killer instinct to win. She just enjoys playing the game and I appreciate that. Second, her example reminded me that God is not in Heaven trying to keep us from winning in this life. He wants us to win, and if we self destruct, He will create new ways (paths) to help us fulfill our ultimate purpose. If you have made mistakes in your life, don't believe the lie that God can't use you to make a difference in this world. God knew you were going to fail before it ever happened in real time. He is patient, and loving - and if you will surrender your situation to Him, He can find you another way to win.

When you get a chance, you may want to read Isaiah 42:16
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The Way God Thinks

2009-01-04T23:42:00.000-08:00

Today I had the opportunity to talk to my church about the way God thinks. We are starting a new message series called The Second Advent - dealing with all the activities surrounding the second coming of Jesus Christ. I told the church that the events of the end times are not negotiable . . . they are going to come to pass. In fact, God was able to play out every scenario in his infinite mind before Genesis 1:1 ever happened, so God would not have enacted His plan if He was not pleased with the ultimate outcome. In Revelation chapter 8, the Bible speaks of a star that falls from the heavens and contaminates the earth's water so that people who drink it will die. Some have said that this star could be some kind of asteroid. If that is true, then I believe the asteroid was created and set on a trajectory towards the earth at the same time God created the heavens and the earth. God's mind is so infinite and His will so sovereign that to Him it's like end time events have already happened. I don't claim to be able to think like God but the Bible does teach me that He knows the end from the beginning, and that his will is going to happen whether we like it or not.

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Will You Please Say Yes?

2009-01-04T23:21:00.000-08:00

A few days ago my son Joshua (3) wanted to watch a video on the television, so he said, "Daddy, can I watch cartoon?" But before I could answer, he followed up by saying, "Daddy, will you please say yes?" That was a new approach for my son to get what he wanted - but I liked it. The reason I liked it is because I could envision myself talking to God that way if I had a desperate need. "God, will you help me? Will you please say yes?" I don't always know what's best for my son, but God always knows what is best for His children. The Lord delights in saying "yes" but I believe He wants us to want Him more than the things He can do for us. Just a quick thought for the road.

When you get a chance, check out James 1:17
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Leadership Lessons from Ebenezer Scrooge

2008-12-22T20:41:00.000-08:00

I recently watched Patrick Stewart's version of Scrooge, and came away with some thoughts on leadership. In the story, we remember that Scrooge is visited by spirits from Christmas past, present and future. When I applied leadership to the concept of time, some interesting ideas came out. First, leaders tend to live in the future and cannot be content for long living in the present, or dwelling in the past. Next, followers tend to live in the present and are content to do so. They are not too concerned about the future unless the future invades their present. Finally, complainers tend to despise the future, condemn the present and live in the past. Now, if you are a leader, the pitfall of living only in the future is that you never enjoy what God doing now. You cannot be a leader without looking ahead, but be sure to enjoy God today. Followers who never look to the future are vulnerable to all kinds of attacks from the enemy. You may not be a natural born leader, but everyone can learn leadership skills. Complainers never enjoy what God is doing now, because what He is doing now is never as good as what he did back in the day. They make excuses for why they are not reaching people for Jesus and lament that things are not the way they used to be in the church. They say "bah humbug" when it comes to the future because the future is not a safe place for the complainer. Which one are you - leader, follower or complainer? Take a lesson from Ebenezer - anyone can change.

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Lego Gods

2008-12-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

As we finish tracking down presents for Christmas, I am astounded by all the cool toys in the toy stores. But for many kids, Legos' are still fun and you can buy elaborate kits to build your favorite comic book or movie heroes. I believe that people today are building their own gods the way a child builds Lego characters. If I want him to look like the guy on the box then I will build him that way, but I reserve the right to change him because he is made of Legos'. I read the recent article by Lisa Miller in Newsweek about The Religious Case for Gay Marriage. In the article, Miller makes her argument by slamming marriage in the Old Testament, discounting passages on homosexuality, downplaying marriage in the New Testament and leaving out entire proof texts that would refute her claims. For example, the article claims that the Bible has nothing to say about the sin of two women having a sexual relationship. I wanted to send her an email and say, "Did you even read Romans 1 when researching your article?" She insinuates an improper relationship between David and Jonathan and conveniently leaves out Christ's words about what an ideal marriage should look like. Proponents of gay marriage may someday have a recognition of marriage by civic authorities, but it will never be recognized in the eyes of God - and I believe that reality makes them angry. The same God that gave us the Bible invented marriage and His definition is the only one that truly matters. So do you worship a god of Legos' (a god of your own making), or the God of the Bible?

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Just Spending Time With My Dad

2008-12-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, our family took a trip to Clayton, North Carolina to see my dad for a mini-Christmas celebration. My dad definitely has Christmasitis because he now has more yard ornaments than ever. Three years ago my dad would have never put anything in his yard for Christmas, so I'm hoping it's not genetic. What I am thrilled about is the opportunity to worship with my dad at his church. He loves attending Crossroads Fellowship in Raleigh and it's not difficult to see why. Crossroads is a big church - but it's a big church with a big heart. They do a lot of great things in worship and discipleship, but living their faith in the community is what they do best. As their pastor brought the message last Sunday, I was very thankful to God that my dad found such an incredible church. I know that many large churches lose their heart, but it doesn't have to be that way and Crossroads church is proof of that. So for any pastors reading this, I hope that your church grows. I personally believe it is sinful for a church not to grow if it resides in a growing area. Just don't lose your heart in the process. Oh, and be sure to spend time with your family for Christmas. They may drive you crazy sometimes, but they're the only family you've got.

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Potty Mouth

2008-12-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

I read a blog earlier this week from Pastor Perry Noble, recounting a recent trip to the restroom (Yes, believe it or not, Pastors do use the restroom). She just happened to walk in when he was using the facilities. A crazy thing happened while he was washing his hands. His daughter was staring at a toilet and he was afraid she would touch it, so he told her not to. But instead of touching it, she bent over and kissed it. He said it was totally gross and disgusting and he could not believe she did it. But things really got extreme when his loving daughter (who just kissed the toilet) decided to kiss him. What would you have done? Now we might laugh at this, but his point was that we do the same thing with God. How often do we kiss the toilet seat of the world all week long, only to come to church on Sunday to kiss Jesus with our worship. Ouch! Man, don't preach that! For many Christians, there seems to be a disconnect between Sunday and the rest of the week. We have compartmentalized our Christianity and made it a part of our life. But I like what Beth Moore says, "Jesus is not a part of my life - Jesus is my life." Nuff said.

When you get a chance, check out James 1:27
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Even God Took a Sabbath

2008-12-11T22:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight, our KBC leadership met at the Olive Garden for the annual staff/elder/deacon dinner. I must confess that our church really has great leaders. We tend to hold out for men and women of integrity and have never been sorry for sticking to that standard. After the dinner was over, I thought about the importance of leaders celebrating God's victories in the church - and how the devil does everything to keep those celebrations from taking place. Even God took time after he created to appreciate His creation and call it good. Take time to notice what God is really doing in your life. Don't take the blessings of God for granted. If you have a daily relationship with Jesus Christ, a godly wife, loving children and a caring church that follows God's leading - you are already wealthy beyond most people's wildest dreams. Don't let the devil divert your attention with the attractions of this world, only to ridicule you at the end of your life. Choose to build sabbath moments into your day, sabbath days into your week, and sabbath weeks into your year. God is doing good things all around you. Take time to notice.

When you get a chance, check out Mark 2:27
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The Gift of Music

2008-12-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

Music is only a gift when I'm not singing, but we had a great time on Wednesday night caroling as a church. This year we took the trolley to a senior living center where one of our members (Monnie Green) lives. We got to sing for a large group of seniors in the foyer area and then went to the third floor to sing for Monnie. A couple of years ago, I officiated the funeral for her husband - Billy Sunday Green (named after the famous evangelist). I always tell people that I preached the funeral of Billy Sunday. Her husband was a special friend to me. After leaving the center, we drove though old Fredericksburg and sang from the trolley. Finally, we went to the home of Carolyn Spence, who has been fighting cancer for some time, and serenaded her as she listened from her bed. She was extremely thankful that we came. Last year we used our time of caroling as an outreach to the community, but this year we got back to ministering the gift of music to some dear saints. Good friends, good music, hot apple cider and chocolate chip cookies. Does it get any better?

When you get a chance, check out Colossian 3:16
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When Jesus Made Himself

2008-12-09T07:51:00.000-08:00

I'm having a great cup of coffee right now from Fredericksburg's own Hyperion Expresso and wanted to share a celestial thought. I mentioned on Sunday that my daughter Lauren recently asked me a mind-blowing question. "Daddy, did Jesus make himself?" I must admit that my heart swelled a little - that my daughter (who is six) would ask something that complex. But it is interesting to contemplate. Can you imagine Jesus in eternity past, planning the creation of His future body? How would he transform from an omniscient being into a vulnerable baby who would have to learn what it meant to be human? Ever thought about it?

When you get a chance, check out John 1:1-3
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