Its been like 3 weeks since i last blogged. I finally i have some time to sit down and share everything on my mind. Ive been so overwhelmed with my thoughts, i really need to record them down and drain out my head. I know ppl dont actually wanna read all of this, and i dont expect anyone to since its so long. But if i were writing this for people, i would make it short n sweet, n probably more humorous. But because its primarily for God, i really need to jus clear my thoughts, and lay it all down at His feet. You might wanna buckle up your seat belt, because its gonna be a long ride. lol, btw my nose is so stuffy n runny right now, its not even funny, But hey God created snot, so im grateful, lol i wonder if Jesus ever had a stuffy nose, boogers or even sneezed? People would hafta say, "Bless yourself" lol
I think it all starts with seeking truth. Seeking answers, understanding urself and others, understanding human behavior, observing life, pondering how we fit into God's plan, and learning how to adapt to these truths. For instance, When i learn more about myself and my identity, i figure out my purpose. Identity = Purpose. When you find who you are in God, you find God's role for you. It's amazing how much we can learn about ourselves by just self reflecting.
In order to share Christ, you need to build on relationships. Yes you can do street evangelism which can be effective, but we already have such an impact on our preexisting relationships. The best place to start evangelizing is right in our family n friends. We have a super strong impact on those who already know us. Think of all ur family and friends. When's the last time you had a deep conversation?
Why so much emphasis on relationships and old friends? because we need to learn effective communication. Having a relationship with someone, is an open door to sharing God's love. Communication + Love = A stronger relationship. The stronger a relationship, the easier it is to share Christ. Think about it. Think about how you communicate with others. How do you listen n understand another? Are you more concerned about urself, or actually care about other ppl's thoughts? People who majority talk about themselves, consider it a good conversation. So ask people how they are, and what's been going on in their lives. People have a numerous amount of problems, but they all point to one super awesome, best solution. People dont realize how God is the answer to all problems. In our communication, it takes choke practice to direct conversations towards Him. How do we get others to think of higher thoughts? People already see the corruption of the world, But what many dont see is God. It's easy to have ordinary routine conversations, about school, work, and what's happening over the weekend. So how do we ease into a talk about Jesus? How do we get people to start pondering these deep questions, and seeking truth? How do we get people to huger God? I dont think jus living as an example will be enough. Often times we are required to step outside our safety box to help someone out. Show them God's love through actions. Ask them, hey could i pray for you? And then follow up by actually helping them out in their situation.
uhmm..kinda got off topic, but yeah.. how do we communicate with others? We can speak the truth about God, But are we speaking the truth IN LOVE? If we're called to save people, we need need need to watch how we work with others. It's quite easy to become a pharisee. One of the reasons ppl are so turned off by Christians, is because they can become very judgmental, forceful, hypocritical, liberal, and offensive. We as Christians need to find that BALANCE of speaking to others. We shouldnt shy away n become passive, nor should we become too strong or aggressive. But the bottom line is that we need to watch how we communicate and love another. If everyone is talking, then who's listening? We cant learn, if we dont listen. We cant teach if we dont speak up. We cant love, if we put ourselves first.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
(Phil 2:3-4)
It's through our approach of communication and actions, that we get people to think. When ppl think about stuff like life, death, truth, and religion, they begin to seek God. Our small gestures, like a simple smile, can go a long way. So next time ur not in a hurry, jus stop for a second to greet someone, sit down and chat about life, truly listen and care whats on their minds, and lastly, love through communication.
I learned that surrendering, dying to ourselves, giving up our sinful desires, walking in faith, sanctification, repentance and seeking His will is something we need need to do EVERYDAY. Often times i have a hard time getting into that zone of intimate prayer. Sometimes i get completely lost, and dont understand His word. Sometimes my laziness, or busyness gets the best of me. Surrendering to God is not a flu shot. Everyday we have to ask God to take all that we are and Ask Him to use us to the fullest, for we are His to use. Continue to thirst, hunger, desire, surrender, and change ur heart towards Him, for He will always satisfy. When we die to ourselves and desperately reach out to Him, God will overflow our cups, engulf us with His Spirit, and surround us with His love. He is more than enough. His grace and victory over sin is more than sufficient. God is always just, always sovereign, always faithful, and He never once makes a mistake. Christ was perfect and obedient till death. He descended from heaven, humbled himself, and made himself nothing. He fulfilled over 300 of prophecies, which is beyond chance. The odds of someone fulfilling jus 48 of those prophecies is 1 X 10 to the 157th power. Thats like shaking up all universes, and picking up a specific grain of sand on the first try!
As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:10-11)
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD."
(Jer 29:11-14)
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
(Romans 8:28)
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
(2Peter 3:9)
God is always sovereign. He is always in control. He always loves. God is love. His love is unchanging. His will, will be done. All his promises will be fulfilled. He reigns over everything. God was, is and will always be. He is beyond our knowledge, and our comprehension. We dont always know why or how He works, but His will is perfect. His perfect love and being casts out all fear n darkness.
I cant help but emphasize how great a Father He is. No one compares to Him. There is no other god. I always like to people watch, and observe how parents watch their children. I saw a father sitting by the edge the pool, jus watching His little children swim in the shallow water. He jus smiled, and made sure they were happy and safe. He probably would've jumped in to save them instantly, if they swam too far off into the deep, or started to drown. All children love to latch on to ppl while their swimming. They realize that "Hey im a little person, and my swimming skills arnt too great, but i trust that my father will take care of me, so i should hold on to him." All kids cling on to their parents, like little monkeys. Parents are most satisfied when their children smile, giggle and love them back. They are most glorified, when their love is reciprocated back. God celebrates and rejoices when His lost son returns home. As fathers love spending time with their kids, God loves spending time with us.
Ive been growing so rapid by just hanging around other Christians. Ive learn alot from jus hanging around n listening to strong Christians, I also learn a lot from reading books, of which my favorite is called the Bible, and i actually got to meet the author personally! lol.. Ive also learned choke knowledge from listening to Christian talk radio stations. I get to soak up on sermons, apologetics, Christian issues, and learn more about His word. God reveals and teaches us many things, in a variety of ways.
When we decrease, God can increase. When we are weak, God is strong. When we humble ourselves, and spend time with God in prayer, we receive a peace and spiritual rest in Him. After we are charged with His Spirit, soaked up in His word, and engulfed in His love, our spirits become so alive and burn for more intimacy with Him. Our lips want to sing songs of praise, our spirits rejoice in His glory, and God dances over us as we draw closer to Him.
We are the salt and light of this earth. If we lose our flavor or hide our light, we arnt living completely for Him. He calls us to share the wonderful message of the good news. Many Christians are honestly getting too comfortable. And i'll be the first to admit it, because we arnt perfect. But its become too convenient to be lazy and selfish in our own ways. We need to be bold in our faith, and persevere through trials. God disciplines those He loves. God calls us to be His ambassadors, royal priest, shepherds, workmanship, teachers and leaders of His people.
God keeps telling me, "Lead my people." And i say "But God thats kinda hard, i dont think im best qualified to lead." then He responds, "Brah no worries, I will make you strong in me." He revealed that He's going to use me as a teacher of His word. He's been revealing so much truth, knowledge, and wisdom lately, i can barely contain it all. I tell God, "Hey i dunno if i can really teach all ur truths clearly. I have a really hard time speaking sometimes." God responds, "I will speak through you, and give you the words to say." Im like "Ho snap! this is jus like Moses!" God basically said to me, "I gave you life and everything that you are. Your mine. You belong to me. You dont own urself. I created you. I make your heart beat everyday. And im going to use you for my purpose." So im like "Ho shooooots! Take all of me God! Im all yours!"
God, i cant wait to meet you face to face in your perfect, glorious, heavenly kingdom. God you are better than life. You are more than enough. Everything else is meaningless without you. Life is nothing without ur love. Your the best Dad in the world! You never stop loving us. God stir up a heart that beats for you. May we glorify you, and be like your perfect Son, Jesus. I want to be as close to you as possible. I repent of our wicked ways. And thank you for the forgiveness that we dont deserve. Its by your mercy n patience, that you paid the price of our wrath. You made Him who had no sin, to be sin for us. And then its by your grace, that you've given us a wonderful new life with you. Sharpen us, train us, and send us out to do your will. Help us to be instantly obedient, without any hesitation. Let us leap out in action, and live out our faith. Teach us how to lead others towards you. Teach us how to speak to others. Teach us how to die to ourselves everyday. Teach us how to effectively listen and learn from you. Teach us to be humble, gentle and Christ centered. Teach us how to forgive as u forgave us. And teach us to how to love, as ur children of righteousness. Remind us, that its not about us, or what we do. Remind us that its all about You! and what you've already done! Let our only desire be to please You. I love you Lord! Amen.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
Perseverance
Trials n tribulations require greater resistance. And therefore require greater effort, which produces greater strength. We cant continue to do the same things over and over, and expect a different outcome. If i only stayed at lifting 5pound weights, i wouldnt get any stronger. But if i stepped it up to 10pounds, then 20pounds, i would increase in strength. Im honestly, a really safe person and stay within my comfort zone. Im selfish, im lazy. I dont like change. I dont like new grounds, and i like to stay in my safe little box. God says "Live for me!" and i say, "eee! but God, its hard and uncomfortable for me". He then says "Have faith! Trust me! I will strengthen you through this." then i say "ok God. If you say so." God wants me to take more initiative. Yes im shy and often a scary cat when it comes to stepping up to the plate. But God reminds me, Hes with me each step. Ive learned so much about myself. His word tells us to examine ourselves, so that we can improve on our weaknesses. So lately ive been working on being more personable with people. Understanding, listening and communicating with others help form healthy relationships. Connecting with them allows us to love.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Sweeter Than Honey
So this weekend i went to camp mokele'ia again. Aaron Larson, who is an executive producer, and pastor at One Love came to talk. He gave messages on the importance of God's word, being a disciple, faith and desiring God. I honestly didnt take anything too new from his sermons, but did enjoy getting to talk to him one on one.
I did like when he touched on having an appetite for God. He mentioned we shouldnt hafta force ourselves to eat our favorite food. We normally gobble down our favorite food, and just want more. In the same way, we need to be starving to spend time with Him, to pray, to worship, to gobble up His word, and most of all starve for His amazing love. God definitely reveals more to us when we are desperately desiring more.
We read through 1Corithians CH1-3 for devotions. I love doing devotions with small groups at camp. We should make more effort to do devotions with one another. We go into so much further depth, when we meditate on small bites of scripture. These chapters talk about following God and not man. People would say "I follow Paul", or "I follow Apollos", when we should be chasing after Christ. Yes, he uses men to plant and water a seed, but it's ultimately God who makes it grow. We are only but mere men, and God's workmanship. God is God.
"For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength." 1Cor 1:25
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,
declares the LORD.
As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9
God is so much bigger than us! and no matter how many times i hear that, i still forget. I still try to rely on my own. I get caught falling into my own desires, running on my own bit of energy, and fall on my own prideful ways. Every time we sin, its because of our prideful flesh. We can know truth, but how much harder it is to live by truth. We must continue to die to ourselves, and conform to His will. We try so hard to hold on to our little, puny, dry pools of water, while God is waiting to give us an entire ocean of living water. God breaks down our walls, and tells us to take faith in His promises. He's wisdom, ways, and thoughts are > i
I also like goin to their camps, becuz it gives me a chance to see friends, meet new friends, have awesome conversations, meditate on the beach, find family unity among Christians who hardly know each other, and surrendering in hardcore worship. God is always my highlight of camps, but at these camps, He teaches me so much through a little 6 yr old girl.
Its amazing how much a 1st grader can teach us. I have such a strong connection to this little girl named Angelic. She taught me through her smiles, laughter and attachment. She would give funny, silly smiles, that showed her genuine joy. She would lose in a laughing contest, because she is so full of bright laughter. She always yells "Uncle Chris!" as she comes running up to give me a big hug from behind.
So why did i learn so much from her smiles, laughter, and attachment? Because God the Father, calls us His children! Our hearts should be full of joy, full of smiles up to heaven, and just standing in awe of Him. We need to enjoy life with Him, praising Him in our laughter. And lastly, we need that attachment to Him. Finding our comfort, safety, and peace in His love. So smile, laugh, and love with one another. Be a little happy kid, with nothing but joy for our Heavenly Father. Run, jump, and cling on to Him in laughter and love.
Tonight i went over to my Uncle's mansion house, and got to share my faith with my mom's side of the family. My uncle and auntie are considering getting a divorce. So we got to gather around as a small family and show our support. We shared deep feelings, and everything really came out. Other family members spoke of difficult times in their past divorces, and how they thought divorce meant the end of the road.
But my other uncle and i got to seriously share Christ as the answer to them. I was like the only one who didnt cry during our family discussion. Everyone was balling n using toilet paper. Everyone tried to remain strong, but God swept our feet with emotion. Least little mochi new how to ease up all the sorrow and pain. I was surprised that they included my 6th grade cuzin Chaz, to hear about his parent's plans of divorce. God is seriously working something in my uncle and auntie, and is using this damaged relationship to reveal Himself as hope. This next season of holidays, is the perfect opportunity to bring our families closer together in Christ. God is seriously showing me the importance of loving on my families and friends. Its so crazy knowing God's abundant love never ceases to pour out on this broken, dark, and fallen world. Even through all the bad, God's love prevails. Whether times are good or bad, happy or sad, God is always! Always, so wonderful, so faithful, so admirable, so majestic, so glorious, so infinite, so sovereign, so amazing, so comforting, so perfect, so everything! Now its our job to go n share Him!
I did like when he touched on having an appetite for God. He mentioned we shouldnt hafta force ourselves to eat our favorite food. We normally gobble down our favorite food, and just want more. In the same way, we need to be starving to spend time with Him, to pray, to worship, to gobble up His word, and most of all starve for His amazing love. God definitely reveals more to us when we are desperately desiring more.
We read through 1Corithians CH1-3 for devotions. I love doing devotions with small groups at camp. We should make more effort to do devotions with one another. We go into so much further depth, when we meditate on small bites of scripture. These chapters talk about following God and not man. People would say "I follow Paul", or "I follow Apollos", when we should be chasing after Christ. Yes, he uses men to plant and water a seed, but it's ultimately God who makes it grow. We are only but mere men, and God's workmanship. God is God."For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength." 1Cor 1:25
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,
declares the LORD.
As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9
God is so much bigger than us! and no matter how many times i hear that, i still forget. I still try to rely on my own. I get caught falling into my own desires, running on my own bit of energy, and fall on my own prideful ways. Every time we sin, its because of our prideful flesh. We can know truth, but how much harder it is to live by truth. We must continue to die to ourselves, and conform to His will. We try so hard to hold on to our little, puny, dry pools of water, while God is waiting to give us an entire ocean of living water. God breaks down our walls, and tells us to take faith in His promises. He's wisdom, ways, and thoughts are > i
I also like goin to their camps, becuz it gives me a chance to see friends, meet new friends, have awesome conversations, meditate on the beach, find family unity among Christians who hardly know each other, and surrendering in hardcore worship. God is always my highlight of camps, but at these camps, He teaches me so much through a little 6 yr old girl.
Its amazing how much a 1st grader can teach us. I have such a strong connection to this little girl named Angelic. She taught me through her smiles, laughter and attachment. She would give funny, silly smiles, that showed her genuine joy. She would lose in a laughing contest, because she is so full of bright laughter. She always yells "Uncle Chris!" as she comes running up to give me a big hug from behind.
So why did i learn so much from her smiles, laughter, and attachment? Because God the Father, calls us His children! Our hearts should be full of joy, full of smiles up to heaven, and just standing in awe of Him. We need to enjoy life with Him, praising Him in our laughter. And lastly, we need that attachment to Him. Finding our comfort, safety, and peace in His love. So smile, laugh, and love with one another. Be a little happy kid, with nothing but joy for our Heavenly Father. Run, jump, and cling on to Him in laughter and love.
Tonight i went over to my Uncle's mansion house, and got to share my faith with my mom's side of the family. My uncle and auntie are considering getting a divorce. So we got to gather around as a small family and show our support. We shared deep feelings, and everything really came out. Other family members spoke of difficult times in their past divorces, and how they thought divorce meant the end of the road.
But my other uncle and i got to seriously share Christ as the answer to them. I was like the only one who didnt cry during our family discussion. Everyone was balling n using toilet paper. Everyone tried to remain strong, but God swept our feet with emotion. Least little mochi new how to ease up all the sorrow and pain. I was surprised that they included my 6th grade cuzin Chaz, to hear about his parent's plans of divorce. God is seriously working something in my uncle and auntie, and is using this damaged relationship to reveal Himself as hope. This next season of holidays, is the perfect opportunity to bring our families closer together in Christ. God is seriously showing me the importance of loving on my families and friends. Its so crazy knowing God's abundant love never ceases to pour out on this broken, dark, and fallen world. Even through all the bad, God's love prevails. Whether times are good or bad, happy or sad, God is always! Always, so wonderful, so faithful, so admirable, so majestic, so glorious, so infinite, so sovereign, so amazing, so comforting, so perfect, so everything! Now its our job to go n share Him!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Stir it up in our hearts, Lord
Lately ive been contemplating why does God allow us to fall away? How come we cant stay super close to Him all the time? How come some days we are filled with the spirit, and other days we arnt so much? Why does he allow us to be tempted, and jus not let us sin anymore? Its because this shows our weakness. This shows how deprived we are without Him. If we didnt struggle with anything and had no problems, we'd be perfect, and therefore wouldnt need God. He continues to show us, that we are only but mere men, and that we really really do need Him.
So i had a really lazy and unproductive day. I didnt get anything done in the day, when i could have went surfing, exercised, finished school work, or met up with some people. But i was too lazy, and wasted a day. So while i was lying on the ground like a lazy sloth. i was told to go run. And no1 likes running.. so as i began running around my neighborhood i got to stare at the vast night sky, which never ceases to amaze me, oh and i also got to bark with some dogs, lol, But yah, anyways.. i was pondering "Why cant we always stay super close to God?" and as i was running up this hill, it kept getting steeper, and at each corner it looked longer, higher and impossible to continue. I started to huff and puff, (no i didnt blow a house down) but i got extremely exhausted. I wanted to quit running. I wanted to stop. I couldnt do it anymore. But then, i kept looking towards the goal, which was the top end of the street. My heart was out of energy, and i wanted to collapse, but something kept telling me to go on. At that point, i realized that although i was pooped out, I still wanted to finish the run without stopping. And it was then i saw how desperate i was to reach that last street light pole. Then this sudden rush of power n strength kicked in, and i was able to finish.
This run symbolizes our "run" with God. Yes we do hafta stop sometimes, because we're running on our own energy, and not filled with God's Spirit. We get burnt out when we begin to rely on ourselves. Sometimes our lives get so busy, we forget to fill up on God. We forget how important it is to spend time in His word, soak up in His spirit, and meditate in prayer. Often times we try to make it on our own, only to realize that we arnt strong enough. We do everything possible to make it on our own, and use every effort to climb up to God, and then we realize we cant do it by ourselves. And i learned that, God comes down upon us, when we are most desperate seeking Him. Thats when God kicks in the nitro and takes over. Instead of being self controlled, its better to be God controlled.
He doesnt like it when His sheep run astray, but allows them to go take their own path. The prodigal son can never outrun the grace of the Father. Once the sheep gets lost, scared, empty, deprived, and desperate for rescue, then God comes and shepherds us back. In the same way a man rejoices when he finds his lost coin, so does God rejoice when we come back to Him. We have gone and spent our inheritance, we are left with nothing, and then we see how much we really do need God. And God forgives us, bringing us back, and clothing us with His almighty love.
It really has been a battle for me lately. I was caught fighting temptations and distractions unguarded. I forgot to equip myself with God's holy armor. I actually sensed a few spiritual battles, and it felt really weird. Even some friends at epic said they felt something was up. But yeah, I fell into laziness big time. My physical, mental, spiritual life got weak. I got super sick, and drifted away from the fruits of the spirit. I lost intimacy. I didnt make time to spend time with Him. I didnt extremely desire, or seek Him. I honestly wasn't desperate enough for Him.
Yes hanging out with cool christian kids helps, but i cant rely on my friends for God. I cant rely on my church or pastors to stir up my heart. although they can encourage us. The only one we should completely rely on is God Himself. We find Him only through faith, repentance, prayer, His word, and most especially His love. We need to focus only on Him. Boast only on the cross. So that our lives would reflect Him and that we would glorify and worship Him in every little thing we do. We need to be drunk and addicted on God!
In order to stay close to God, we must continue to humble ourselves and die to ourselves. We need to be weak so God can be strong, and we need to be little so that God can be BIG. We need to change our minds, kill our pride n lustful desires. We can't ever think we're doing enough, or we're close enough. We need to constantly ask ourselves, What can i do to improve? What am i struggling with? What's getting in the way? What's pulling me back most? How can i take one step closer to God? How can i spend more time with Him? How can i be more intimate in my relationship with Him? What are my priorities? What do I want to stand for? What do i value most? What is God's will? This is sanctification, in which we should never stop doing.
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing love! Thank you sending your Son to die for our sins. Thank you for life. Thank you for blessing us with such wonderful creation. Thank you for breathing into me your Holy Spirit. Help us to be grateful. Help us to see you. Be in our thoughts and dreams. Teach us your ways. Thank you for always taking us back, and forgiving us of all our wrongs. You are so great Lord, that whenever we start to drift away, you pull us right back. How great is your love oh Lord! You are everything that is good. You reign over heaven and earth. You are truly amazing. We are absolutely nothing without you oh God. We are so desperate for you. We proclaim you as ruler and king of our lives. Take my life oh Lord. Take everything that i am. I no longer want to live for myself. Destroy my sinful ways. Continue to stir up new life in our hearts. Direct us onto paths of righteousness. May we not seek to please ourselves, or please others, but help us to please only you. Its all about you oh God. It's all about your crazy love. Your love covers a multitude of our sins. Let us walk in your love. Let us be clothed with your love. Let us sing of ur everlasting love. Help us when we fall, Help us when our faith or spirit grows weak. Help us to desire you more, so we can spend more time with you. I pray for those who dont yet know you. Open their eyes, show them your glory. Heal our land, bring revival, reformation and awakening. Lord i pray that more and more would come to you. Break hardened hearts, transform lives, and pour out your love on this planet. That every knee would bow, and praise you! Let us find rest, peace and joy in you oh Lord. Lord hear our prayers! We are so desperate and hungry for you God!! I love you Lord, you are so good! Amen!
"Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." -Ps 73:25-26
"He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful." -1Cor 1:8
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." -1 Thes 5:16-24
So i had a really lazy and unproductive day. I didnt get anything done in the day, when i could have went surfing, exercised, finished school work, or met up with some people. But i was too lazy, and wasted a day. So while i was lying on the ground like a lazy sloth. i was told to go run. And no1 likes running.. so as i began running around my neighborhood i got to stare at the vast night sky, which never ceases to amaze me, oh and i also got to bark with some dogs, lol, But yah, anyways.. i was pondering "Why cant we always stay super close to God?" and as i was running up this hill, it kept getting steeper, and at each corner it looked longer, higher and impossible to continue. I started to huff and puff, (no i didnt blow a house down) but i got extremely exhausted. I wanted to quit running. I wanted to stop. I couldnt do it anymore. But then, i kept looking towards the goal, which was the top end of the street. My heart was out of energy, and i wanted to collapse, but something kept telling me to go on. At that point, i realized that although i was pooped out, I still wanted to finish the run without stopping. And it was then i saw how desperate i was to reach that last street light pole. Then this sudden rush of power n strength kicked in, and i was able to finish.
This run symbolizes our "run" with God. Yes we do hafta stop sometimes, because we're running on our own energy, and not filled with God's Spirit. We get burnt out when we begin to rely on ourselves. Sometimes our lives get so busy, we forget to fill up on God. We forget how important it is to spend time in His word, soak up in His spirit, and meditate in prayer. Often times we try to make it on our own, only to realize that we arnt strong enough. We do everything possible to make it on our own, and use every effort to climb up to God, and then we realize we cant do it by ourselves. And i learned that, God comes down upon us, when we are most desperate seeking Him. Thats when God kicks in the nitro and takes over. Instead of being self controlled, its better to be God controlled.
He doesnt like it when His sheep run astray, but allows them to go take their own path. The prodigal son can never outrun the grace of the Father. Once the sheep gets lost, scared, empty, deprived, and desperate for rescue, then God comes and shepherds us back. In the same way a man rejoices when he finds his lost coin, so does God rejoice when we come back to Him. We have gone and spent our inheritance, we are left with nothing, and then we see how much we really do need God. And God forgives us, bringing us back, and clothing us with His almighty love.
It really has been a battle for me lately. I was caught fighting temptations and distractions unguarded. I forgot to equip myself with God's holy armor. I actually sensed a few spiritual battles, and it felt really weird. Even some friends at epic said they felt something was up. But yeah, I fell into laziness big time. My physical, mental, spiritual life got weak. I got super sick, and drifted away from the fruits of the spirit. I lost intimacy. I didnt make time to spend time with Him. I didnt extremely desire, or seek Him. I honestly wasn't desperate enough for Him.
Yes hanging out with cool christian kids helps, but i cant rely on my friends for God. I cant rely on my church or pastors to stir up my heart. although they can encourage us. The only one we should completely rely on is God Himself. We find Him only through faith, repentance, prayer, His word, and most especially His love. We need to focus only on Him. Boast only on the cross. So that our lives would reflect Him and that we would glorify and worship Him in every little thing we do. We need to be drunk and addicted on God!
In order to stay close to God, we must continue to humble ourselves and die to ourselves. We need to be weak so God can be strong, and we need to be little so that God can be BIG. We need to change our minds, kill our pride n lustful desires. We can't ever think we're doing enough, or we're close enough. We need to constantly ask ourselves, What can i do to improve? What am i struggling with? What's getting in the way? What's pulling me back most? How can i take one step closer to God? How can i spend more time with Him? How can i be more intimate in my relationship with Him? What are my priorities? What do I want to stand for? What do i value most? What is God's will? This is sanctification, in which we should never stop doing.
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing love! Thank you sending your Son to die for our sins. Thank you for life. Thank you for blessing us with such wonderful creation. Thank you for breathing into me your Holy Spirit. Help us to be grateful. Help us to see you. Be in our thoughts and dreams. Teach us your ways. Thank you for always taking us back, and forgiving us of all our wrongs. You are so great Lord, that whenever we start to drift away, you pull us right back. How great is your love oh Lord! You are everything that is good. You reign over heaven and earth. You are truly amazing. We are absolutely nothing without you oh God. We are so desperate for you. We proclaim you as ruler and king of our lives. Take my life oh Lord. Take everything that i am. I no longer want to live for myself. Destroy my sinful ways. Continue to stir up new life in our hearts. Direct us onto paths of righteousness. May we not seek to please ourselves, or please others, but help us to please only you. Its all about you oh God. It's all about your crazy love. Your love covers a multitude of our sins. Let us walk in your love. Let us be clothed with your love. Let us sing of ur everlasting love. Help us when we fall, Help us when our faith or spirit grows weak. Help us to desire you more, so we can spend more time with you. I pray for those who dont yet know you. Open their eyes, show them your glory. Heal our land, bring revival, reformation and awakening. Lord i pray that more and more would come to you. Break hardened hearts, transform lives, and pour out your love on this planet. That every knee would bow, and praise you! Let us find rest, peace and joy in you oh Lord. Lord hear our prayers! We are so desperate and hungry for you God!! I love you Lord, you are so good! Amen!
"Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." -Ps 73:25-26
"He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful." -1Cor 1:8
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." -1 Thes 5:16-24
Saturday, November 1, 2008
The Battle
As a young child begins to walk, he or she will constantly stumble and fall. We try so hard to walk on our own. We need a parent or someone to help guide and support us, teaching us to take one step after another. In the same way, we need to rely on God's hand to direct, teach, guide, and support us. Our Father loves us, and tells us to look out for sharp dangerous table corners. He holds us up so that we dont trip over the small things. But when we slowly drift away from Him, thinking we can walk on our own two feet, thats when the falls hurt the most. We fall down, cry in anger and pain, get upset at ourselves, upset at the world, upset that we arnt moving forward. So we try to pick ourselves up, and stumble again, realizing that we really can't do it on our own. So then what do we do? We finally cry and reach out our hands, begging for God to pick us back up. And the amazing thing, is that He is always there ready for us to turn to Him. He then dusts off the filth, cleans our tears, and calms us with His words of love. "Don't worry, I got ya. It's okay, I'm right here. It's gonna be alright. Trust me. I'll take care of you." Wow, how great of a Heavenly Father do we have, that He would always pick up the broken pieces. This is the Father we need to run to with everything, because He knows best. We need to run to Him in desire, just wanting more and more of Him.
Why am i talking about the lows and highs in our relationship with God? Because lately i fell down, and didnt know how to get back up. I got caught up in myself. Caught up in others. Caught up in the world. Caught up in prideful sin, thinking i could walk on my own. I was running on my own fuel, and my spirit started to fade weak. The truth is that i lost sight of intimacy with Him. I had a hard time spending time with Him. I didnt make time for it, I was too lazy, too distracted. I lacked so much intimate prayer. I did things to get by, and didnt focus on Him. When i tried to pray, i either fell asleep, got distracted in thoughts, or thought of how to pray in public. I thought of right words to say, and how to be a people pleaser. When God is the only one we should seek to please. I guess my head got a little big, and i got in my own way of God. I got concerned about my own image, about what people think, and basically got full in myself. Sure i could say nice prayers, speak theology, quote verses, sing worship songs, be humble to others, and do the christian religion walk. But for quite awhile, I lost my reliance on God. I lost that extreme intimacy with Him. I forgot that i cant live without Him, that He breathed in me eternal life, and that i need to make my will and desires that of His. I forgot how worthless, meaningless, hopeless, and lost we would all be without Him. Love, Life, and Light are only found within Him.
Our Thoughts, need to be focused on Him, because thoughts lead to acts, acts into habits, habits into character. If our thoughts are lustful on other things, we will lose sight of Him. How then can i control my thoughts?? It seems our minds, automatically think thoughts of pride, lust, greed, power, hate, self gain, and are focused on building up ourselves, or feeding our own desires. Sin has corrupted our minds. We cant help but categorize, stereotype, and make judgments about people. God needs to reign in our thoughts. Because if satan gains control of our thoughts, our flesh and spirit will have to battle it out. If ur mind tells u left, and ur spirit tells u right, you're definitely gonna experience some internal conflicts. The bottom line is that we need to love what God loves, and hate what God hates. We need to set our minds and desires on Him.
Ive found an awesome accountability partner. His name is Dean. i really admire his integrity and honesty. I can see the Holy Spirit work through him. he's never afraid to pray or ask God for help. We have long talks about our struggles, ways of how to equip ourselves to fight temptation, what works, and what doesnt. We have a long list of common problems, and it really does help to talk things out, and renew our minds. Im really working on sanctifying all areas of my life. And it really isnt easy, changing our behaviors and character for the better. How can we die to ourselves? How can we cut and rid ourselves of our sinful nature? We cant be perfect, but we can strive towards holiness, purity, righteousness and lives that shine Jesus. Sanctification is cleaning and repenting so that we don't just fall right back into our old selves. Dean really has been building me up in a lot of ways, and not just helping me to remember a bunch of bible verses, lol. Ultimately we need to come to God with our sins. But it really does help having someone we can confess to, support, learn, and pray with. We figure out ways we can deny ourselves, kill off and stop sins, live by the spirit and continue to grow in Christ.
"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." - Phil 3:7-8
i have choke more to talk about, (relationships, children, books, bottling up my thoughts, Epic, the upcoming conferences) so ill finish it up later, but for now, im super zonked out, so ima gonna go crash. zzzz..
Why am i talking about the lows and highs in our relationship with God? Because lately i fell down, and didnt know how to get back up. I got caught up in myself. Caught up in others. Caught up in the world. Caught up in prideful sin, thinking i could walk on my own. I was running on my own fuel, and my spirit started to fade weak. The truth is that i lost sight of intimacy with Him. I had a hard time spending time with Him. I didnt make time for it, I was too lazy, too distracted. I lacked so much intimate prayer. I did things to get by, and didnt focus on Him. When i tried to pray, i either fell asleep, got distracted in thoughts, or thought of how to pray in public. I thought of right words to say, and how to be a people pleaser. When God is the only one we should seek to please. I guess my head got a little big, and i got in my own way of God. I got concerned about my own image, about what people think, and basically got full in myself. Sure i could say nice prayers, speak theology, quote verses, sing worship songs, be humble to others, and do the christian religion walk. But for quite awhile, I lost my reliance on God. I lost that extreme intimacy with Him. I forgot that i cant live without Him, that He breathed in me eternal life, and that i need to make my will and desires that of His. I forgot how worthless, meaningless, hopeless, and lost we would all be without Him. Love, Life, and Light are only found within Him.
Our Thoughts, need to be focused on Him, because thoughts lead to acts, acts into habits, habits into character. If our thoughts are lustful on other things, we will lose sight of Him. How then can i control my thoughts?? It seems our minds, automatically think thoughts of pride, lust, greed, power, hate, self gain, and are focused on building up ourselves, or feeding our own desires. Sin has corrupted our minds. We cant help but categorize, stereotype, and make judgments about people. God needs to reign in our thoughts. Because if satan gains control of our thoughts, our flesh and spirit will have to battle it out. If ur mind tells u left, and ur spirit tells u right, you're definitely gonna experience some internal conflicts. The bottom line is that we need to love what God loves, and hate what God hates. We need to set our minds and desires on Him.
Ive found an awesome accountability partner. His name is Dean. i really admire his integrity and honesty. I can see the Holy Spirit work through him. he's never afraid to pray or ask God for help. We have long talks about our struggles, ways of how to equip ourselves to fight temptation, what works, and what doesnt. We have a long list of common problems, and it really does help to talk things out, and renew our minds. Im really working on sanctifying all areas of my life. And it really isnt easy, changing our behaviors and character for the better. How can we die to ourselves? How can we cut and rid ourselves of our sinful nature? We cant be perfect, but we can strive towards holiness, purity, righteousness and lives that shine Jesus. Sanctification is cleaning and repenting so that we don't just fall right back into our old selves. Dean really has been building me up in a lot of ways, and not just helping me to remember a bunch of bible verses, lol. Ultimately we need to come to God with our sins. But it really does help having someone we can confess to, support, learn, and pray with. We figure out ways we can deny ourselves, kill off and stop sins, live by the spirit and continue to grow in Christ.
"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." - Phil 3:7-8
i have choke more to talk about, (relationships, children, books, bottling up my thoughts, Epic, the upcoming conferences) so ill finish it up later, but for now, im super zonked out, so ima gonna go crash. zzzz..
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Mighty to Save
Coming to Christ
// So in the past month or so, 3 of my friends are starting to come to Christ. I really dont know exactly where they are, because thats between them and God. I know they have at least faith of a mustard seed, and thats choke compared to none at all. So im glad that 3 of my friends are at least starting to seek the truth. It was awesome hearing how God is starting to change each of their hearts. But now they have already hit major obstacles in their faith. I think all of them are looking for that "God experience", where you truly encounter God's love and hear his voice. I think satan especially goes after those who are about to make these eternal decisions. I think these guys really do want to become closer to God, but are having a hard time giving up worldly desires.
// I think becoming a Christian is a slow process. We may become justified with Him, but other things will still have a hold on us. Does God have to be number 1 in our life for us to be a Christian?? Can one be saved by only having God as just a part of our life? I think God starts off as part of our life, and through the long process of sanctification, God slowly goes up in our rank. We start to see new things, we start to see how evil our sins are, how misleading our world is, and how much greater our God is. The transformation of the heart takes continuous convictions with and by God.
// Yes people can start the race towards God, and yes we will stumble and fall, but God promises that if we truly become His children, He will always be there to pick us up. That no matter how many times we run astray, and take our eyes off the goal, our Dad will always draw us back. That nothing can snatch us out of His mighty hand. God sees our life from start to finish, but the thing is, there are tons who havnt even started this run. The bottom line is that we need to encourage those around us to take that first step of faith, and start this race towards God.
Only One Judge
// God has been constantly warning me to not judge others. I learned this the hard way. Many people that i talked to say that they dont consider it judging, but after hearing how some of my friends said, "dont judge me" i kinda believe that i did. Only God the author and potter can truly know peoples heart. I think by judging peoples actions, they think that im judging their heart. I think it is important that we gently correct others tho. We need to first look at our lives, point out that we arnt nearly perfect, and that we too fall short. But we cant just allow our friends to loove their sins. I think it takes choke love to tell a brother or sister things they probably dont want to hear. But how do we do that in the most loving way? I dont jump out and say "Hey what your doing is wrong, and point at their sin" I tell them that We need to be careful that we dont fall into these temptations. That Christ is way bigger than things of this world. I still dont know if its considered judging though, because if thats the case, then we cant help our brothers n sisters in their deepest sins. Catch my drift?
// As Christians we should love truth, and we should love correction. When someone tells me, "hey we shouldnt be listening to this music, hey we shouldnt say that, hey i dont think we should watch this, hey what we're doing is wrong," i say "yeah man ur completely right, this really isnt glorifying God." But when others here the same line, it becomes a "Ho, who do u think you are". So as of now, until i find a better way to speak to others, im gonna hold my mouth shut. When we become Christians, we should no longer love our sins, we need to actually hate sin. God is disgusted by us loving sin. If God loves everything that is pure and righteous, then He has to hate sin. He takes no pleasure in evil deeds of darkness. Should we judge others hearts? No, only God has the authority of that. But should we test others actions, I believe so. If I just let my friend continue to swear, curse, drink, watch/listen to bad media, talk smack about people, or get involved in sexual impurity, Is it loving of me to continue to let them do so? By no means! By sitting back watching our Christian brothers/sisters sin, is like approving of it.
// Yes we need to constantly test ourselves, Yes we need to renew our own minds, watching all of our actions, Yes we need to be careful how we warn others, Yes we need to be accountable for one another. But right now, im having a really hard time doing that. And I have strong faith that God will heal these friendships, that He will convict our hearts, and that He will show me how to gently and correctly build others up.
Epic
//Friday night I got to talk to my youth pastor, about how Epic is doing a really great job bringing students to come, have fun, and meet new friends. Butt sometimes our ministry gets so caught up with planning events and activities, that we lose sight of our ultimate goal. We need to disciple these high school kids. Sure building friendships with them is important, but what's more, is telling them about Jesus. I know i'd be inconsistent with small groups, so that's kinda preventing me from committing to disciplining some of the guys. On Saturday we had beach day with all the students, and we got to bond over vball, football, and surfing!! And again, i see that Epic wants to connect with these kids, gain their trust, and show them that learning about Christ really can be fun. But its so so important that they take time to know and learn the deep seriousness of God. Jesus is not our homeboy. He is our God! He doesn't fit in our worldly standards. He's bigger than we can imagine. And I think some of our students are beginning to see that. Im glad that we're slowly making a transition to more discipleship. Cuz many are relying on church for God, when they should be relying on God for God.
Baptized!
// Sunday after One Love service i got water baptized. It was really rejuvenating, knowing that God, my family and friends we're there to witness it. I saw it as a rededication, vowing to live for His glory n not of my own, to recommit my life to Him, making that eternal promise to Him, and declaring Him as my Lord n Savior. So yeah, baptism was good. But also being able to see my mom n dad sit on the sides of me during church was also really empowering. I pray that they took something from the service. They came to support me, but I hope God instilled a deeper truth in their hearts. I'm really glad that God is working in my friends n family. I have full faith that God will save them. A faith that He will show them His ridiculously crazy awesome love. That they would continue to seek Him, and find a deeper intimacy with Him.
God is Good! Amen!
// So in the past month or so, 3 of my friends are starting to come to Christ. I really dont know exactly where they are, because thats between them and God. I know they have at least faith of a mustard seed, and thats choke compared to none at all. So im glad that 3 of my friends are at least starting to seek the truth. It was awesome hearing how God is starting to change each of their hearts. But now they have already hit major obstacles in their faith. I think all of them are looking for that "God experience", where you truly encounter God's love and hear his voice. I think satan especially goes after those who are about to make these eternal decisions. I think these guys really do want to become closer to God, but are having a hard time giving up worldly desires.
// I think becoming a Christian is a slow process. We may become justified with Him, but other things will still have a hold on us. Does God have to be number 1 in our life for us to be a Christian?? Can one be saved by only having God as just a part of our life? I think God starts off as part of our life, and through the long process of sanctification, God slowly goes up in our rank. We start to see new things, we start to see how evil our sins are, how misleading our world is, and how much greater our God is. The transformation of the heart takes continuous convictions with and by God.
// Yes people can start the race towards God, and yes we will stumble and fall, but God promises that if we truly become His children, He will always be there to pick us up. That no matter how many times we run astray, and take our eyes off the goal, our Dad will always draw us back. That nothing can snatch us out of His mighty hand. God sees our life from start to finish, but the thing is, there are tons who havnt even started this run. The bottom line is that we need to encourage those around us to take that first step of faith, and start this race towards God.
Only One Judge
// God has been constantly warning me to not judge others. I learned this the hard way. Many people that i talked to say that they dont consider it judging, but after hearing how some of my friends said, "dont judge me" i kinda believe that i did. Only God the author and potter can truly know peoples heart. I think by judging peoples actions, they think that im judging their heart. I think it is important that we gently correct others tho. We need to first look at our lives, point out that we arnt nearly perfect, and that we too fall short. But we cant just allow our friends to loove their sins. I think it takes choke love to tell a brother or sister things they probably dont want to hear. But how do we do that in the most loving way? I dont jump out and say "Hey what your doing is wrong, and point at their sin" I tell them that We need to be careful that we dont fall into these temptations. That Christ is way bigger than things of this world. I still dont know if its considered judging though, because if thats the case, then we cant help our brothers n sisters in their deepest sins. Catch my drift?
// As Christians we should love truth, and we should love correction. When someone tells me, "hey we shouldnt be listening to this music, hey we shouldnt say that, hey i dont think we should watch this, hey what we're doing is wrong," i say "yeah man ur completely right, this really isnt glorifying God." But when others here the same line, it becomes a "Ho, who do u think you are". So as of now, until i find a better way to speak to others, im gonna hold my mouth shut. When we become Christians, we should no longer love our sins, we need to actually hate sin. God is disgusted by us loving sin. If God loves everything that is pure and righteous, then He has to hate sin. He takes no pleasure in evil deeds of darkness. Should we judge others hearts? No, only God has the authority of that. But should we test others actions, I believe so. If I just let my friend continue to swear, curse, drink, watch/listen to bad media, talk smack about people, or get involved in sexual impurity, Is it loving of me to continue to let them do so? By no means! By sitting back watching our Christian brothers/sisters sin, is like approving of it.
// Yes we need to constantly test ourselves, Yes we need to renew our own minds, watching all of our actions, Yes we need to be careful how we warn others, Yes we need to be accountable for one another. But right now, im having a really hard time doing that. And I have strong faith that God will heal these friendships, that He will convict our hearts, and that He will show me how to gently and correctly build others up.
Epic
//Friday night I got to talk to my youth pastor, about how Epic is doing a really great job bringing students to come, have fun, and meet new friends. Butt sometimes our ministry gets so caught up with planning events and activities, that we lose sight of our ultimate goal. We need to disciple these high school kids. Sure building friendships with them is important, but what's more, is telling them about Jesus. I know i'd be inconsistent with small groups, so that's kinda preventing me from committing to disciplining some of the guys. On Saturday we had beach day with all the students, and we got to bond over vball, football, and surfing!! And again, i see that Epic wants to connect with these kids, gain their trust, and show them that learning about Christ really can be fun. But its so so important that they take time to know and learn the deep seriousness of God. Jesus is not our homeboy. He is our God! He doesn't fit in our worldly standards. He's bigger than we can imagine. And I think some of our students are beginning to see that. Im glad that we're slowly making a transition to more discipleship. Cuz many are relying on church for God, when they should be relying on God for God.
Baptized!
// Sunday after One Love service i got water baptized. It was really rejuvenating, knowing that God, my family and friends we're there to witness it. I saw it as a rededication, vowing to live for His glory n not of my own, to recommit my life to Him, making that eternal promise to Him, and declaring Him as my Lord n Savior. So yeah, baptism was good. But also being able to see my mom n dad sit on the sides of me during church was also really empowering. I pray that they took something from the service. They came to support me, but I hope God instilled a deeper truth in their hearts. I'm really glad that God is working in my friends n family. I have full faith that God will save them. A faith that He will show them His ridiculously crazy awesome love. That they would continue to seek Him, and find a deeper intimacy with Him.
God is Good! Amen!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
fire fall down!
Camp Mokule'ia
At first i honestly didnt think i would take anything from this experience. Even our pastor mentioned how he honestly wasnt that stoked for this camp. And during our camp fire the first night, we just ended up sharing what was on our minds. Everyone including myself had some sort of problem or concern. Something holding us back from completely surrendering. Our minds we're troubled, tired, and distracted. Our pastor threw out his entire message he prepared because he knew that everyone wasnt spiritually ready to receive God. People started to warm up, and we continued to worship. Our group was still disconnected. Some had a tough week, some had broken family relationships, some were sick, and spiritually tired. Justin went on to talk about how we need to work as a body. We need all our parts, or we'll be handicap. Becoming one body became our goal for the weekend. They wanted to keep it to a small size group, so we had about 35 people. We talked about how everyone was valuable, and how everyone was a part of the body. But how were we gonna work as a body? The key is that we need God to hold us all together. Then we got to stare at the night sky. I couldnt believe how beautiful all the stars were. Away from all the city lights n sounds, left us with the glittering stars and the sound of the ocean. Was nuts.
Saturday we had a guest speaker, who is a professor at pac-rim. He was a cool guy, but i didnt really take too much from what he talked about. He did teach me about how to do better devotions. How to take more out from what we read in the bible. He said to pray more than we read. Meditate on scripture, instead of trying to race through as much as possible. Each passage has one correct interpretation, but each passage has many applications. We need to constantly ask ourselves, how can i apply this to areas of my life? I also learned to meditate on bigger chunks of passages. We tend to focus on only one or two verses normally. He said to keep in mind what the author mentioned in stories before and after. After doing devotions on only Luke 10, I really saw what the speaker was saying. Take a smaller bite of scripture, but meditate on the huge context. Many stories connect to each other, and try to reapply the same message in different forms. When God wants to emphasize something, He repeats it over and over.
In Luke 10, all 3 stories had a common ground of being distracted. How workers of the harvest should travel light, not taking bags or sandals, or even greeting people on the road. Basically meaning, dont get caught up with other stuff, focus on the purpose. Missionaries need to stay focused on their mission. The next story was about the good samaritan. A priest and a levite were too busy with other things to help the man in need. The last story was about mary and martha, and how martha was too caught up in preparations, while mary sat and listened to Jesus. Often times, we get too caught up with stuff. Christ reminds us to always stay close to Him. He loves when we spend time with Him. We need to make it a point to constantly have God in our day, setting aside time for Him. We also cant forget to love on others. Caring for those who are hurt and need attention. We cant be swept by worldly distractions.
Everyone's highlight of camp was Saturday night's worship. We worshiped for 2+ hours. At first ppl got tired of worship, we were hoping that it would end soon, we were all super tired. But eventually everyone was able to surrender. We opened our protected hearts, we welcomed God, we let go of all the chains holding us back, we cried out for God to enter, we sought only Him. We craved and desired Him. People stood with their arms stretched high, others fell to the ground in tears. We had so much pain that we kept from God. God took complete control of our hearts and minds. We experienced God as one body. It was also really encouraging to see people pray for each other. We all sat down after, and began to share what God whispered to us. It seems God spoke to everyone's heart that night. We did a round of prayer, and then got to share what God was telling us. God's love jus shook the entire room. We were all in awe of Him. Then later we performed skits, n played games. And I stayed up super late playing card games, and jus talkin with ppl.
Sunday morning, 3ppl said they tried to wake me up for breakfast, but i dont remember that. I missed breakfast, and was the last to wake up. I was kinda bummed, cuz mokule'ia cooks super good food. And the beds were actually super comfortable too! They gave us clean sheets, blankets and everything. It was like living in a local kine hotel, with the beach right outside. Only bad thing was that a bug bit me on the leg, and it was kinda itchy, lol.. anyways the rest of the day we closed with worship, devos, prayer and sharing time. Later that night, God called me to go to pursuit. And it was super strengthening to jus see that i have a family there too. The speaker gave a message on excepting everyone to the body. Loving on them regardless.
One of my greatest highlights of camp was spending time with my friend's daughter. Her name is Angelic, shes 6 yrs old. Shes jus too precious, so adorable, so full laughter, and her smile would jus completely brightened up my day. She would cling to me, make me carry her around, we would play silly games, and we even got a cool handshake. lol, i saw her as the little sister i never had. She was jus a bundle of joy to be around.
Monday i bombed a test. had bible study that talked about gray areas. Then had leaders meeting, then took dean home. And he invited me in for chicken mcnuggets! He also gave me carrots n peanut butter, lol.. what an awesome dinner it was. We couldnt stop talking about God. I had all these questions, and we were looking up verses. Hes probably gonna be my accountability partner from now on. And we're gonna join our small bible studies to make a mega one.
Lately my mom has been facing some rough trials. She has a lot of emotional damage that really hit hard. She told me she was ready to go home, meaning back with God. Her arm was really causing her alot of pain, and she jus had so much attacking her. So i prayed for her, and we eventually calmed down. Realizing that God is all we need. Praying with confidence that God can heal anything. I really need to work on being a better son.
this entire week, my friend has been on my mind. I said something to her to try and build her up. I said something in the wrong way, and was supposed to be accountable for her. But i did a really bad job, and even ended up making her cry. I was so upset with myself. I didnt know what to do. I really need to be careful when being accountable for people. What i thought was leading her, was actually cutting her down. It really is hard sometimes. I know God has this situation covered, but its gonna take some time.
Even tho im growing so much closer to God, other areas of my life have been dwindling. I havnt been eating or sleeping right. I havnt been exercising, or spending enough time with friends. I havnt been there for my mom when she most needs me. Havnt been spending any time with my dad. Ive been slacking in school, and havnt been helping out at church. Im basically a mess right now. But i feel so strong, because i have God with me. I can tell God wants to build me up super strong. He keeps showing me how im supposed to lead one day. I need to find a way to focus completely on God, and yet improve on other areas of my life as well.
I really want to jus run off somewhere. Leaving with minimum supplies. And jus being away out from society. Being in nature. Relying solely on what God provides. Seeking God with everything, and away from life distractions. I want to be alone with God. I jus want to rest in God. And nothing else. Our God is perfect. He never makes a mistake. He is all that is good and holy. I never want to be separated from Him. I jus wanna spend a looong time where its jus me and God. Imagine how much we'd grow if all we breathed in was God. If all we ate was God. If all we slept on, was God. If all our hearts and minds were lead by God. If all we had was God.
I accidentally read some stuff on past revivals in the US. How much of an impact they had. How fast the word spread, How many people came to Christ, How the entire community changed. I want that same revival here in Hawaii. I want to see a change in our school. Im starting to get a better understanding of what that would look like. Im having more confidence, and more faith, that fire will fall down. I want to see an awakening in our state. That our islands would be the first state to start this movement. We Need God to come down and start that fire. We need, need, need Him. But we dont always want Him. People need to want this spirit. People need to want Jesus. We need forgiveness and healing over our land. We need our land to repent for running in the wrong direction, to come together as one body, to ask God to burn those chains holding us back. We need to fully surrender, giving up things of this world, and the sins we desire. We need a revival.
God you know our hearts. You know all our needs, all our desires, all our thoughts, all our fears, all our worries, and all our pains. Heal us Lord. Heal us. Never stop teaching us through your word. Bring new revelations and growth each day. Dont let us get caught up with other ppl and distractions. Keep our eyes fixed on you. God I want to see change in people's hearts. I want to see all praise go to you. Let us speak words of encouragement, and never speak curses. Keep our hearts pure, away from temptation. Help us to love you! We are too weak, we cant do it on our own. We need you God! Take my life, use it for your will. Do with me as you please. Guide me with each step i take. My mind is weak, my spirit is tired. Give me rest in you. Restore my spirit. Keep teaching me how to love others. Thank you for being with me God. I love u Lord, Amen
At first i honestly didnt think i would take anything from this experience. Even our pastor mentioned how he honestly wasnt that stoked for this camp. And during our camp fire the first night, we just ended up sharing what was on our minds. Everyone including myself had some sort of problem or concern. Something holding us back from completely surrendering. Our minds we're troubled, tired, and distracted. Our pastor threw out his entire message he prepared because he knew that everyone wasnt spiritually ready to receive God. People started to warm up, and we continued to worship. Our group was still disconnected. Some had a tough week, some had broken family relationships, some were sick, and spiritually tired. Justin went on to talk about how we need to work as a body. We need all our parts, or we'll be handicap. Becoming one body became our goal for the weekend. They wanted to keep it to a small size group, so we had about 35 people. We talked about how everyone was valuable, and how everyone was a part of the body. But how were we gonna work as a body? The key is that we need God to hold us all together. Then we got to stare at the night sky. I couldnt believe how beautiful all the stars were. Away from all the city lights n sounds, left us with the glittering stars and the sound of the ocean. Was nuts.
Saturday we had a guest speaker, who is a professor at pac-rim. He was a cool guy, but i didnt really take too much from what he talked about. He did teach me about how to do better devotions. How to take more out from what we read in the bible. He said to pray more than we read. Meditate on scripture, instead of trying to race through as much as possible. Each passage has one correct interpretation, but each passage has many applications. We need to constantly ask ourselves, how can i apply this to areas of my life? I also learned to meditate on bigger chunks of passages. We tend to focus on only one or two verses normally. He said to keep in mind what the author mentioned in stories before and after. After doing devotions on only Luke 10, I really saw what the speaker was saying. Take a smaller bite of scripture, but meditate on the huge context. Many stories connect to each other, and try to reapply the same message in different forms. When God wants to emphasize something, He repeats it over and over.
In Luke 10, all 3 stories had a common ground of being distracted. How workers of the harvest should travel light, not taking bags or sandals, or even greeting people on the road. Basically meaning, dont get caught up with other stuff, focus on the purpose. Missionaries need to stay focused on their mission. The next story was about the good samaritan. A priest and a levite were too busy with other things to help the man in need. The last story was about mary and martha, and how martha was too caught up in preparations, while mary sat and listened to Jesus. Often times, we get too caught up with stuff. Christ reminds us to always stay close to Him. He loves when we spend time with Him. We need to make it a point to constantly have God in our day, setting aside time for Him. We also cant forget to love on others. Caring for those who are hurt and need attention. We cant be swept by worldly distractions.
Everyone's highlight of camp was Saturday night's worship. We worshiped for 2+ hours. At first ppl got tired of worship, we were hoping that it would end soon, we were all super tired. But eventually everyone was able to surrender. We opened our protected hearts, we welcomed God, we let go of all the chains holding us back, we cried out for God to enter, we sought only Him. We craved and desired Him. People stood with their arms stretched high, others fell to the ground in tears. We had so much pain that we kept from God. God took complete control of our hearts and minds. We experienced God as one body. It was also really encouraging to see people pray for each other. We all sat down after, and began to share what God whispered to us. It seems God spoke to everyone's heart that night. We did a round of prayer, and then got to share what God was telling us. God's love jus shook the entire room. We were all in awe of Him. Then later we performed skits, n played games. And I stayed up super late playing card games, and jus talkin with ppl.
Sunday morning, 3ppl said they tried to wake me up for breakfast, but i dont remember that. I missed breakfast, and was the last to wake up. I was kinda bummed, cuz mokule'ia cooks super good food. And the beds were actually super comfortable too! They gave us clean sheets, blankets and everything. It was like living in a local kine hotel, with the beach right outside. Only bad thing was that a bug bit me on the leg, and it was kinda itchy, lol.. anyways the rest of the day we closed with worship, devos, prayer and sharing time. Later that night, God called me to go to pursuit. And it was super strengthening to jus see that i have a family there too. The speaker gave a message on excepting everyone to the body. Loving on them regardless.
One of my greatest highlights of camp was spending time with my friend's daughter. Her name is Angelic, shes 6 yrs old. Shes jus too precious, so adorable, so full laughter, and her smile would jus completely brightened up my day. She would cling to me, make me carry her around, we would play silly games, and we even got a cool handshake. lol, i saw her as the little sister i never had. She was jus a bundle of joy to be around.
Monday i bombed a test. had bible study that talked about gray areas. Then had leaders meeting, then took dean home. And he invited me in for chicken mcnuggets! He also gave me carrots n peanut butter, lol.. what an awesome dinner it was. We couldnt stop talking about God. I had all these questions, and we were looking up verses. Hes probably gonna be my accountability partner from now on. And we're gonna join our small bible studies to make a mega one.
Lately my mom has been facing some rough trials. She has a lot of emotional damage that really hit hard. She told me she was ready to go home, meaning back with God. Her arm was really causing her alot of pain, and she jus had so much attacking her. So i prayed for her, and we eventually calmed down. Realizing that God is all we need. Praying with confidence that God can heal anything. I really need to work on being a better son.
this entire week, my friend has been on my mind. I said something to her to try and build her up. I said something in the wrong way, and was supposed to be accountable for her. But i did a really bad job, and even ended up making her cry. I was so upset with myself. I didnt know what to do. I really need to be careful when being accountable for people. What i thought was leading her, was actually cutting her down. It really is hard sometimes. I know God has this situation covered, but its gonna take some time.
Even tho im growing so much closer to God, other areas of my life have been dwindling. I havnt been eating or sleeping right. I havnt been exercising, or spending enough time with friends. I havnt been there for my mom when she most needs me. Havnt been spending any time with my dad. Ive been slacking in school, and havnt been helping out at church. Im basically a mess right now. But i feel so strong, because i have God with me. I can tell God wants to build me up super strong. He keeps showing me how im supposed to lead one day. I need to find a way to focus completely on God, and yet improve on other areas of my life as well.
I really want to jus run off somewhere. Leaving with minimum supplies. And jus being away out from society. Being in nature. Relying solely on what God provides. Seeking God with everything, and away from life distractions. I want to be alone with God. I jus want to rest in God. And nothing else. Our God is perfect. He never makes a mistake. He is all that is good and holy. I never want to be separated from Him. I jus wanna spend a looong time where its jus me and God. Imagine how much we'd grow if all we breathed in was God. If all we ate was God. If all we slept on, was God. If all our hearts and minds were lead by God. If all we had was God.
I accidentally read some stuff on past revivals in the US. How much of an impact they had. How fast the word spread, How many people came to Christ, How the entire community changed. I want that same revival here in Hawaii. I want to see a change in our school. Im starting to get a better understanding of what that would look like. Im having more confidence, and more faith, that fire will fall down. I want to see an awakening in our state. That our islands would be the first state to start this movement. We Need God to come down and start that fire. We need, need, need Him. But we dont always want Him. People need to want this spirit. People need to want Jesus. We need forgiveness and healing over our land. We need our land to repent for running in the wrong direction, to come together as one body, to ask God to burn those chains holding us back. We need to fully surrender, giving up things of this world, and the sins we desire. We need a revival.
God you know our hearts. You know all our needs, all our desires, all our thoughts, all our fears, all our worries, and all our pains. Heal us Lord. Heal us. Never stop teaching us through your word. Bring new revelations and growth each day. Dont let us get caught up with other ppl and distractions. Keep our eyes fixed on you. God I want to see change in people's hearts. I want to see all praise go to you. Let us speak words of encouragement, and never speak curses. Keep our hearts pure, away from temptation. Help us to love you! We are too weak, we cant do it on our own. We need you God! Take my life, use it for your will. Do with me as you please. Guide me with each step i take. My mind is weak, my spirit is tired. Give me rest in you. Restore my spirit. Keep teaching me how to love others. Thank you for being with me God. I love u Lord, Amen
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Build me up, God!
boy i dont even know where to start. there has been so much God this week! So much stuff ive been learning, in such a short time. it's craaaaaaaaazzzzzzy!!! this fire for Him jus keeps growing stronger and stronger! i love it! I love being filled with God. But He doesnt jus fill me up, He overflows out of me too! Jus to warn u guys before hand, this is gonna be one of those "looong entries". You might wanna grab a snack before u dive in.
Vision
I finally realize what all my dreams with water are trying to tell me. But first let me tell u an analogy that i got while i was floating in the pool the other day. We all start out like people underwater. We are consumed, engulfed, awashed, drowning, sinking deeper and deeper into the ocean. Theres nothing underwater but death n hungry sharks. We get attracted to pirate treasure chests, mermaids/mermans, and find caves to live in. This ocean darkness will jus keep drawing us in, until we hit the rock bottom. We go so far from the surface, we cant even see the light. We're completely surrounded by death and start to choke, realizing that theres no way we can get to the surface on our own. Then at that instant, Jesus the lifeguard comes diving to pull us out. He brings us to the surface, and gives us life. We're finally able to breathe in air, and see the light all around. So now we're floating in the water. Still surrounded by the ocean. So because we're still in this rough water, we panic. We swallow in some salt water, and get hit by ocean waves. We swim recklessly in search of land. Until we finally give up and realize we cant do it on our own. Then Jesus walks by, and says "Get up! Come! Follow me!" and once we start focusing on Jesus, we begin to walk on water!! But then as we look down into the ocean, people are still drowning, and now we need to go help save them. In my mind the ocean represents the world and death. dark rough seas can represent chaos. The lifeguard equals Jesus our Savior and the air representing God n His love. A lot of my dreams, include people drowning in water, and I need to jump in, or do something to save them. But the main point of all this, is that we need to rely on Jesus, because He is our lifeguard!
Intimacy
I kno i talked about this before, but its jus so BIG. That the God who spoke the earth into creation, wants to have a direct, personal, intimate, interactive and dynamic relationship with us! so gnarly..
Clouds
I always stare at the sky whenever i drive. It never ceases to amaze me. It must be nice to be a cloud. Drifting around all day, roaming the vast sky, saying hello to birds, greeting other clouds, pouring gentle rain on the land, lightly passing by the mountains, and getting lit up by the bright sun. I guess u could say i found a deeper appreciation for creation.
Listening
Ive learned to listen. Listening to people. Listening to leaders. Listening to silence. Listening to God. And actually being able to hear God's voice. I dont always hear His exact words, but i know exactly what He's saying to me.
Seeing
God has opened the eyes of my heart. I was blind, then my sight was blurry, but now i see clear. He constantly shows me His plan and vision for me. Through dreams, or short glimpses of His will. Sitting in the prayer room i like to think of His kingdom. Try to imagine what its like. Its so glorious. It's beautiful. It's pure white. Jesus is so bright, My eyes couldnt even handle it. God's throne is surrounded by people n angels worshiping Him. His love completely fills His kingdom. There's no pain, no sorrow, no sin, only God and His love.
Tasting
"Chris you can taste God?" Oh ya! God tastes sooo good! Once u have a small taste of Him, all you want is more! God tells us to eat from the bread of life, which is Jesus. He says, if anyone thirst, let them come to me and drink. He is the stream of living water. God also tells us to eat His word. Make His law dwell within our hearts. Jesus is our nutrition! And His love is delicious goodness! We need to be constantly hungry for Him. Craving for more of Him. Savoring His love. Not settling for anything, but the best on the menu. ok i think u get the idea
Touch
"Chris you can touch God?" Well i sure can feel Him. I can feel Him surround me. I can feel the trembling in my heart. You jus know when its God. He strengthens, teaches, guides, comforts and loves on us. Much of the time we dont notice it, but once in a while, you can really tell.
Smell
"Chris you can smell God?" well.. no.. not really. But if i could smell God, i bet He would smell really good! Better than any other food, flower, perfume, or scent. Now, im really starting to wonder what God smells like.. lol.. However, people should be able to smell the aroma of our relationship with Christ. It should be quite evident, that something smells ridiculously good in our life.
Faith
God has been emphasizing how important our faith in Him is. Stress, fear n worry take so much from our faith in Him. Its important that we completely trust on Him. Trusting that He knows whats best for us. Having the faith that God is gonna lead us, show us, and take all control in our lives. Relying on Him to provide for us.
Not Judging
One thing God has been telling me to work on, is to not judge people. He is the only judge. He is a just judge, and He knows everyones heart. We dont have the authority to judge people. We do however have the authority to correct and rebuke others gently. We need to be really careful in the way we try to correct or lead others. We cannot force people to know God. We need to react in love.
Growth
For the longest time, i felt like i wasnt doing enough for God. And even though im involved in ministry, God said "You still have so much more to do." I was like, "Shnikies! I have tons more to do!" Continue growing me God.
Children
Sara called me one night telling me about the sex trafficking goin on in the world. And i got so broken up over it. It pisses me off that im not doing more for them. We all know that theres children lost in the dark, crying out for food, shelter, and love. Crying out "Mommy! Daddy!" Crying out for someone to save them. And yet we all try to hide that in a box, pretending we dont see it. Children are DYING! because we're all too selfish to help them. We're filthy rich. we live off of so much wealth, so much luxury. Look at all the comfort, accessories, security, food, and money we have. Some kids dont have any shoes, any food for days, or anyone to care for them. I cry just thinking about these children. How much i would love to see them smile. How much i would love to give them a hug, a home, and a better quality of life. But whats even more important, is showing them that they can have Jesus. And yet im a complete hypocrite. Everyone knows the problem, and yet very few are willing to do something about it. It makes me sick to sleep in the comfort of my bed, knowing that millions of children are sleeping on the cold dirty streets. It makes me sick going out to buffet restaurants stuffing my mouth with food, when some kids only live off a few grains of rice. We need to do something! Something hasta change! We need to take action!
Strength and Humility
God has made it clear that i am to be strong in Him. That I am to lead people. Even though He is strengthening me, at the same time, He's teaching me complete humility. That its not me at all. It all about Him. I was talking to aunty betty? or some lady from BCM, during light up UH, and she said.. "Wow you really do sound like a pastor. You speak very well." And that really made me feel good. I was like "Alright Chris! ur doin a good job." but then quickly knew that my pride was attacking me. 2 of my friends from church said that they noticed something different about me. That during a meeting they could feel some sort of energy coming from me, before i even said a word. They said they could sense i was trying to hold in an overwhelming joy. And after we did all the boring meeting stuff, I shared how much God has been moving lately. I couldnt contain how much love God poured on me. How important our relationship with Christ is. That our high school ministry needs to be focused and centered on Him. Then during another bible study with 2 of my close friends, they both said they've seen a huge growth in me. They said "Chris you've grown so much in the last month." and "You speak with a lot more confidence and authority now" and at first i was like.. "ho yups, i did grow alot, i must be pretty darn awesome!" Then God came down from heaven and threw a lightning bolt in my face. Reminding me that its ALL HIM! He's building me up, its his power n strength. and that i need to constantly be cutting down my pride. humbling myself, giving all credit to Him. We need Him so badly. We are absolutely NOTHING, without Him. We need to practice brokenness, because as humans, we love hearing about "I, I, I, Me, Me, Me, Chris, Chris, Chris.." and we need to be very careful about that. It should be "Him! Him! Him! God, God, God! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!" As much as God strengthens us, we need to learn humility.
Rich and Poor
God told me that im going to be poor in the world view. Not having many worldly things to rely on. But i know God will provide for all my needs. At first i struggled with the thought of not having a nice home, high paying job, success, and maybe not even having a family. The last one killed me the most. Ive always seen a loving wife, and adorable crazy kids in my future, but lately God has told me not to focus on that. To love Him more than even a family. So of course itd be super awesome to have a family later, but i wont be surprised if thats not what He has in store for me. Even though i will be poor in world standards, i will be beyond rich in spirit. That the blessings He has for me are amazing. That the things ill see, and get to experience will be far greater than anything money could buy. And in order for me to start receiving what He has planned, i need to first let go and surrender everything. So im gonna take God up on His word, and follow Him.
Rich and Poor 2
Its really easy for us to say, "yah id give up everything up for God" but when it actually comes down to doing it.. its actually quite hard. Listening to the radio i heard that its an advantage to be poor. Thats its actually mo betta to be poor. Most of us would be like "What!? no way!" Rich stuff really does take away from our relationship with Christ. Im sick of all this wealth. We're so consumed by clothes, ipods, cars, security, jobs, and all the things money can buy us. How much do we really give to others? I kno i can get really selfish n greedy when it comes to money. We need to use what we have for God and then follow Him. We need to give to those who are suffering in poverty! We need to teach the rich to become poor! To love God! not money! Dont invest in short term desires and comforts, invest in God. Give it all to God, and rely solely on Him! If we were asked "Would u rather live in wealth n riches, or be poor in poverty." Im sure all of us would choose riches. Some might say poverty, but really we would all like to live comfortably. It becomes so hard to enter the kingdom of heaven when we are rich. There is so much competition for God, so many distractions and things calling us to buy into. If we make ourselves poor, then all we have is God. Clothe, feed, shelter, visit, and care for those who are poor. Serving others, is serving Jesus. Loving others, is loving Jesus.
Relationships
I need to work on my relationships. I have so many friends that i need to start working on. Ive been slacking for the longest time. He calls me to start sparking and get them on fire for Him. I also need to connect with new people, and form new friendships in order to start sharing Christ with them. I need to be a better son to my mom, especially cuz her one arm stay all jam up. So i need to start helping her out more, and jus spend mo time with da parents. I also noticed that surrounding myself with good Christian friends has really helped a lot. When ppl get excited about Christ, i get all excited n jumpy too.
Responsibilities
Ive been slackin big time in school. School seems so meaningless to me now days. I still enjoy learning stuff, but it doesnt seem nearly as important as God. This week I bombed a test, didnt go see a play, skipped a bunch of classes, and missed 2 hw assignments. I havnt missed a hw assignment since high school freshmen yr. Well lets jus say its super very very rare that i miss turning in hw. So i got kinda bummed about that.. but not too much, cuz im not too up tight about grades, lol. But i noticed i havnt been eating very healthy either. Ive been eating a bunch of junk food, lost weight, and probably gained fat, cuz i havnt really exercised since the summer. My sleep pattern has been thrown off, and ive been feeling super tired throughout the day. I really need to start taking care of my body and earthly responsibilities.
Spending time with God
since my earth responsibilities went down, it gave me much more time to spend with God. Which is way more important to me. I jus find it crazy that we can have a interactive relationship with God. Spending time in the prayer room really gave me a boost in my "run" with God. I am so much more passionate about Him, so much more on hot fiiiirrre for Him, and so much more in love with God. I love learning, reading, talking, thinking, listening, and jus spending time with Him. It's never ending.
Sanctification
After we're justified, we need to work on clearing out all the little sins that try to pull us back from God. We always need to be renewing our minds. Matching up our lives with how the bible tells us to live. Cleaning out our lusts n desires, and replacing them with a heart for God.
Relationship over Religion
We cant earn salvation. Its a free gift from God. We cant get to God by anything we do. The only way is through a relationship with Jesus. Ppl will claim to know God on that day, and He will be like, I never knew you. We need, need, need, a relationship with God. All we need is Christ! Not this religion stuff.
Everything happens for a reason
God specifically placed us where we're supposed to be. I always think, "God shouldnt i be somewhere else?" And He responds "You're right where I want you. I'll tell you when you are to go."
Lukewarm
I watched a video by francis chan, and it talked about being lukewarm. How people are neither hot nor cold, and that God will spit them out. God doesnt want people who hafta contemplate between Him and the world. The kingdom of heaven is like a man finding a treasure in a field, burying it, running to sell all his stuff, and buy this field. Thats how great God is, when we truly find Him. We need to be on FIRE for Him! Not tryin to keep God as a part of our lives, or someone we turn to only in need. People want to keep all their wealth and world desires, and have a pinch of God for salvation. It doesnt work like that. God wants our entire heart, calling us to give up everything, because He is worthy of it all. So take up ur cross and run after Him! For whoever loses his life, will save it!
Obedience
Reflecting on everything this week, Obedience really sticks out. We need to answer His call. We need to step up, and take action. We need to seek His voice, seek His will, and follow His plan. We cant tell God, "Hold on, ill do it later when i want to." like how we talk back to our parents. We need to instantly follow God's lead. Following Him exactly, and passionately. We can't ignore when God calls us. We cannot choose our own will over His. Being prideful and selfish is putting ourselves before God. We need to be guided by our Father, because if we follow our own ways, it only leads to destruction and death. When God says to do something, DO IT!
Love and Prayer
The chief end of man is to glorify God. The chief end of God, is to glorify God. He calls us to Love Him with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our minds. To Love n worship Him before everything else. He comes first in our life. Praying to Him, brings so much peace at times. Its so comforting to know that we can talk to Him 24/7! He never says "i dont wanna talk, im too busy, i dont care, im closed for today, i went out to lunch, call back later, or wrong numba." God actually wants to spend time with us. He loves when we come to Him.
Jesus, I need to give myself up. I am not strong enough to love You and walk with You on my own. I can't do it, and I need you. I need You deeply and desperately. I believe You are worth it, that You are better than anything else I could have in this life or the next. I want You. and when I don't, I want to want You. Be all in me. Take all of me. Have Your way with me. Amen!
Vision
I finally realize what all my dreams with water are trying to tell me. But first let me tell u an analogy that i got while i was floating in the pool the other day. We all start out like people underwater. We are consumed, engulfed, awashed, drowning, sinking deeper and deeper into the ocean. Theres nothing underwater but death n hungry sharks. We get attracted to pirate treasure chests, mermaids/mermans, and find caves to live in. This ocean darkness will jus keep drawing us in, until we hit the rock bottom. We go so far from the surface, we cant even see the light. We're completely surrounded by death and start to choke, realizing that theres no way we can get to the surface on our own. Then at that instant, Jesus the lifeguard comes diving to pull us out. He brings us to the surface, and gives us life. We're finally able to breathe in air, and see the light all around. So now we're floating in the water. Still surrounded by the ocean. So because we're still in this rough water, we panic. We swallow in some salt water, and get hit by ocean waves. We swim recklessly in search of land. Until we finally give up and realize we cant do it on our own. Then Jesus walks by, and says "Get up! Come! Follow me!" and once we start focusing on Jesus, we begin to walk on water!! But then as we look down into the ocean, people are still drowning, and now we need to go help save them. In my mind the ocean represents the world and death. dark rough seas can represent chaos. The lifeguard equals Jesus our Savior and the air representing God n His love. A lot of my dreams, include people drowning in water, and I need to jump in, or do something to save them. But the main point of all this, is that we need to rely on Jesus, because He is our lifeguard!
Intimacy
I kno i talked about this before, but its jus so BIG. That the God who spoke the earth into creation, wants to have a direct, personal, intimate, interactive and dynamic relationship with us! so gnarly..
Clouds
I always stare at the sky whenever i drive. It never ceases to amaze me. It must be nice to be a cloud. Drifting around all day, roaming the vast sky, saying hello to birds, greeting other clouds, pouring gentle rain on the land, lightly passing by the mountains, and getting lit up by the bright sun. I guess u could say i found a deeper appreciation for creation.
Listening
Ive learned to listen. Listening to people. Listening to leaders. Listening to silence. Listening to God. And actually being able to hear God's voice. I dont always hear His exact words, but i know exactly what He's saying to me.
Seeing
God has opened the eyes of my heart. I was blind, then my sight was blurry, but now i see clear. He constantly shows me His plan and vision for me. Through dreams, or short glimpses of His will. Sitting in the prayer room i like to think of His kingdom. Try to imagine what its like. Its so glorious. It's beautiful. It's pure white. Jesus is so bright, My eyes couldnt even handle it. God's throne is surrounded by people n angels worshiping Him. His love completely fills His kingdom. There's no pain, no sorrow, no sin, only God and His love.
Tasting
"Chris you can taste God?" Oh ya! God tastes sooo good! Once u have a small taste of Him, all you want is more! God tells us to eat from the bread of life, which is Jesus. He says, if anyone thirst, let them come to me and drink. He is the stream of living water. God also tells us to eat His word. Make His law dwell within our hearts. Jesus is our nutrition! And His love is delicious goodness! We need to be constantly hungry for Him. Craving for more of Him. Savoring His love. Not settling for anything, but the best on the menu. ok i think u get the idea
Touch
"Chris you can touch God?" Well i sure can feel Him. I can feel Him surround me. I can feel the trembling in my heart. You jus know when its God. He strengthens, teaches, guides, comforts and loves on us. Much of the time we dont notice it, but once in a while, you can really tell.
Smell
"Chris you can smell God?" well.. no.. not really. But if i could smell God, i bet He would smell really good! Better than any other food, flower, perfume, or scent. Now, im really starting to wonder what God smells like.. lol.. However, people should be able to smell the aroma of our relationship with Christ. It should be quite evident, that something smells ridiculously good in our life.
Faith
God has been emphasizing how important our faith in Him is. Stress, fear n worry take so much from our faith in Him. Its important that we completely trust on Him. Trusting that He knows whats best for us. Having the faith that God is gonna lead us, show us, and take all control in our lives. Relying on Him to provide for us.
Not Judging
One thing God has been telling me to work on, is to not judge people. He is the only judge. He is a just judge, and He knows everyones heart. We dont have the authority to judge people. We do however have the authority to correct and rebuke others gently. We need to be really careful in the way we try to correct or lead others. We cannot force people to know God. We need to react in love.
Growth
For the longest time, i felt like i wasnt doing enough for God. And even though im involved in ministry, God said "You still have so much more to do." I was like, "Shnikies! I have tons more to do!" Continue growing me God.
Children
Sara called me one night telling me about the sex trafficking goin on in the world. And i got so broken up over it. It pisses me off that im not doing more for them. We all know that theres children lost in the dark, crying out for food, shelter, and love. Crying out "Mommy! Daddy!" Crying out for someone to save them. And yet we all try to hide that in a box, pretending we dont see it. Children are DYING! because we're all too selfish to help them. We're filthy rich. we live off of so much wealth, so much luxury. Look at all the comfort, accessories, security, food, and money we have. Some kids dont have any shoes, any food for days, or anyone to care for them. I cry just thinking about these children. How much i would love to see them smile. How much i would love to give them a hug, a home, and a better quality of life. But whats even more important, is showing them that they can have Jesus. And yet im a complete hypocrite. Everyone knows the problem, and yet very few are willing to do something about it. It makes me sick to sleep in the comfort of my bed, knowing that millions of children are sleeping on the cold dirty streets. It makes me sick going out to buffet restaurants stuffing my mouth with food, when some kids only live off a few grains of rice. We need to do something! Something hasta change! We need to take action!
Strength and Humility
God has made it clear that i am to be strong in Him. That I am to lead people. Even though He is strengthening me, at the same time, He's teaching me complete humility. That its not me at all. It all about Him. I was talking to aunty betty? or some lady from BCM, during light up UH, and she said.. "Wow you really do sound like a pastor. You speak very well." And that really made me feel good. I was like "Alright Chris! ur doin a good job." but then quickly knew that my pride was attacking me. 2 of my friends from church said that they noticed something different about me. That during a meeting they could feel some sort of energy coming from me, before i even said a word. They said they could sense i was trying to hold in an overwhelming joy. And after we did all the boring meeting stuff, I shared how much God has been moving lately. I couldnt contain how much love God poured on me. How important our relationship with Christ is. That our high school ministry needs to be focused and centered on Him. Then during another bible study with 2 of my close friends, they both said they've seen a huge growth in me. They said "Chris you've grown so much in the last month." and "You speak with a lot more confidence and authority now" and at first i was like.. "ho yups, i did grow alot, i must be pretty darn awesome!" Then God came down from heaven and threw a lightning bolt in my face. Reminding me that its ALL HIM! He's building me up, its his power n strength. and that i need to constantly be cutting down my pride. humbling myself, giving all credit to Him. We need Him so badly. We are absolutely NOTHING, without Him. We need to practice brokenness, because as humans, we love hearing about "I, I, I, Me, Me, Me, Chris, Chris, Chris.." and we need to be very careful about that. It should be "Him! Him! Him! God, God, God! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!" As much as God strengthens us, we need to learn humility.
Rich and Poor
God told me that im going to be poor in the world view. Not having many worldly things to rely on. But i know God will provide for all my needs. At first i struggled with the thought of not having a nice home, high paying job, success, and maybe not even having a family. The last one killed me the most. Ive always seen a loving wife, and adorable crazy kids in my future, but lately God has told me not to focus on that. To love Him more than even a family. So of course itd be super awesome to have a family later, but i wont be surprised if thats not what He has in store for me. Even though i will be poor in world standards, i will be beyond rich in spirit. That the blessings He has for me are amazing. That the things ill see, and get to experience will be far greater than anything money could buy. And in order for me to start receiving what He has planned, i need to first let go and surrender everything. So im gonna take God up on His word, and follow Him.
Rich and Poor 2
Its really easy for us to say, "yah id give up everything up for God" but when it actually comes down to doing it.. its actually quite hard. Listening to the radio i heard that its an advantage to be poor. Thats its actually mo betta to be poor. Most of us would be like "What!? no way!" Rich stuff really does take away from our relationship with Christ. Im sick of all this wealth. We're so consumed by clothes, ipods, cars, security, jobs, and all the things money can buy us. How much do we really give to others? I kno i can get really selfish n greedy when it comes to money. We need to use what we have for God and then follow Him. We need to give to those who are suffering in poverty! We need to teach the rich to become poor! To love God! not money! Dont invest in short term desires and comforts, invest in God. Give it all to God, and rely solely on Him! If we were asked "Would u rather live in wealth n riches, or be poor in poverty." Im sure all of us would choose riches. Some might say poverty, but really we would all like to live comfortably. It becomes so hard to enter the kingdom of heaven when we are rich. There is so much competition for God, so many distractions and things calling us to buy into. If we make ourselves poor, then all we have is God. Clothe, feed, shelter, visit, and care for those who are poor. Serving others, is serving Jesus. Loving others, is loving Jesus.
Relationships
I need to work on my relationships. I have so many friends that i need to start working on. Ive been slacking for the longest time. He calls me to start sparking and get them on fire for Him. I also need to connect with new people, and form new friendships in order to start sharing Christ with them. I need to be a better son to my mom, especially cuz her one arm stay all jam up. So i need to start helping her out more, and jus spend mo time with da parents. I also noticed that surrounding myself with good Christian friends has really helped a lot. When ppl get excited about Christ, i get all excited n jumpy too.
Responsibilities
Ive been slackin big time in school. School seems so meaningless to me now days. I still enjoy learning stuff, but it doesnt seem nearly as important as God. This week I bombed a test, didnt go see a play, skipped a bunch of classes, and missed 2 hw assignments. I havnt missed a hw assignment since high school freshmen yr. Well lets jus say its super very very rare that i miss turning in hw. So i got kinda bummed about that.. but not too much, cuz im not too up tight about grades, lol. But i noticed i havnt been eating very healthy either. Ive been eating a bunch of junk food, lost weight, and probably gained fat, cuz i havnt really exercised since the summer. My sleep pattern has been thrown off, and ive been feeling super tired throughout the day. I really need to start taking care of my body and earthly responsibilities.
Spending time with God
since my earth responsibilities went down, it gave me much more time to spend with God. Which is way more important to me. I jus find it crazy that we can have a interactive relationship with God. Spending time in the prayer room really gave me a boost in my "run" with God. I am so much more passionate about Him, so much more on hot fiiiirrre for Him, and so much more in love with God. I love learning, reading, talking, thinking, listening, and jus spending time with Him. It's never ending.
Sanctification
After we're justified, we need to work on clearing out all the little sins that try to pull us back from God. We always need to be renewing our minds. Matching up our lives with how the bible tells us to live. Cleaning out our lusts n desires, and replacing them with a heart for God.
Relationship over Religion
We cant earn salvation. Its a free gift from God. We cant get to God by anything we do. The only way is through a relationship with Jesus. Ppl will claim to know God on that day, and He will be like, I never knew you. We need, need, need, a relationship with God. All we need is Christ! Not this religion stuff.
Everything happens for a reason
God specifically placed us where we're supposed to be. I always think, "God shouldnt i be somewhere else?" And He responds "You're right where I want you. I'll tell you when you are to go."
Lukewarm
I watched a video by francis chan, and it talked about being lukewarm. How people are neither hot nor cold, and that God will spit them out. God doesnt want people who hafta contemplate between Him and the world. The kingdom of heaven is like a man finding a treasure in a field, burying it, running to sell all his stuff, and buy this field. Thats how great God is, when we truly find Him. We need to be on FIRE for Him! Not tryin to keep God as a part of our lives, or someone we turn to only in need. People want to keep all their wealth and world desires, and have a pinch of God for salvation. It doesnt work like that. God wants our entire heart, calling us to give up everything, because He is worthy of it all. So take up ur cross and run after Him! For whoever loses his life, will save it!
Obedience
Reflecting on everything this week, Obedience really sticks out. We need to answer His call. We need to step up, and take action. We need to seek His voice, seek His will, and follow His plan. We cant tell God, "Hold on, ill do it later when i want to." like how we talk back to our parents. We need to instantly follow God's lead. Following Him exactly, and passionately. We can't ignore when God calls us. We cannot choose our own will over His. Being prideful and selfish is putting ourselves before God. We need to be guided by our Father, because if we follow our own ways, it only leads to destruction and death. When God says to do something, DO IT!
Love and Prayer
The chief end of man is to glorify God. The chief end of God, is to glorify God. He calls us to Love Him with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our minds. To Love n worship Him before everything else. He comes first in our life. Praying to Him, brings so much peace at times. Its so comforting to know that we can talk to Him 24/7! He never says "i dont wanna talk, im too busy, i dont care, im closed for today, i went out to lunch, call back later, or wrong numba." God actually wants to spend time with us. He loves when we come to Him.
Jesus, I need to give myself up. I am not strong enough to love You and walk with You on my own. I can't do it, and I need you. I need You deeply and desperately. I believe You are worth it, that You are better than anything else I could have in this life or the next. I want You. and when I don't, I want to want You. Be all in me. Take all of me. Have Your way with me. Amen!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
God is always faithful
What have i been learning this week? Or should i say, What has God been teaching me this week? God has been moving in my life like choke kine. I'm at a lost for words when it comes to describing Him. And i wish i didnt always hafta wonder why God does things, or how God does things. I wanna get to a point, where i just jump up and do whatever God wants instantly, instead of always having to stop and ponder why or how. God has seriously been revealing His power to me. Showing me that He really is above all else. That through Him we have incredible strength. Not of our own strength, but the strength of the Lord. He also pours his purpose on us. Directing us where to go, who to meet, what to say, and what to do. We need to answer quickly when God calls us. Being ready to take action at the sound of His voice. Because we seriously miss out on God's blessings when we dont answer His call. Also, lately God has been dramatically increasing my faith. Faith is trusting on the Lord. Knowing that He will follow through with what He desires, even when we cant always see His entire plan.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.
"As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
We need to stop putting God in man's standards. We conceptualize Him in our human understanding. I cant help, but constantly ask God why or how He works. And then God responds back "Have faith my child, for I am with you." Basically He’s telling us to just trust Him. Worrying about our little problems takes away from our faith in Him. I always like to have things laid out on the table for me to see. But God's voice leads us step by step. He seriously has so much planned. How great is our God, that He would design the entire universe, design us in His own image, and plan out everything according to His will. His will, will be done on earth just as it is in heaven. Know why? Because He's in charge of everything. Nothing can stop His will. When God wants His will to be done on earth, He will definitely make it happen. Ok God, so now what do you want me to do!? "Lead my people." Lead your peoples?! Ru serious!? but how God?? "I will make myself known to them. I will do it. I will lead you. I will use you." God but there's so many people out there that don't know you. How can i show them you!? "Show them my love." God but how can i show them ur love? "I will work through you." Shnap! ok shoots God, take over! But you see, i wish i didnt hafta keep asking "But how God???" Why do i hesitate for so long? When God says go pick up that litter, why do i jus look at it, think and think about it for a minute, and then finally pick it up? When God says "Go talk to that person. Show them my love." Why do i sit there afraid, and jus think about it? When God says do something.. we need to do it instantly, and not hafta run it through our human minds. We let so many opportunities pass us by because we're too busy worrying about what might happen. God doesn't say "Well Chris, think about it first, and if u feel like it, then u should do it." God commands "GO!" Dont think about it, Dont worry about it, jus Go and do it. I'm learning to just have faith in Him. Stop questioning Him how He works, Just trust that He will take care of it. I want God to develop a faith in me so strong, so that when He tells me "Go!" or "Chris, Lead my people." I immediately and willingly jump out into action. Often God gives commands, and i stand on the sideline asking God a bunch of questions of how. I need to jus completely summit to Him, not worry, and follow His plan even tho I dont see the entire blue prints. We need to face that we can never ever fully grasp how He works. We just need to have faith. I think of how Peter walked on water to Jesus. Jesus called Peter to come to Him, and Peter did well, until He looked down and saw that he was actually walking on water. Peter focused on what he thought was impossible. He grew scared because in our human world view, walking on water is impossible (and yes Chris Angel is a fake). But you see, in the same way, we need to focus on Christ and not what we think is difficult. When we put our faith in Jesus, the impossible becomes very possible.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Phil 4:12-13)
God strengthens us. God has been continually building me up for His glory. God has seriously turned me away from sinful desires, and gave me a new heart. Of coarse we still sin, but it is no longer our core desire. All i want is Him. He's all we need. God has been disciplining, training, molding, and throwing all sorts of exciting things in my life. When God first called me to be a leader to His people, I was super hesitant. God why me? God ru sure this is what you want me to do?! God I dont think ill be strong enough. God this path looks too hard for me. God im scared. After crying out to Him, "Lord what do you want me to do! Show me!" and God clearly says to me "Have faith my child, for I am with you. You will lead my people. You will show them my Son, Jesus." ok God. If this is ur plan for me, then make it happen. If you want me to lead hundreds of people in a church, preaching your grace and forgiveness, then build me up and make it happen. If you want me to tend to people of Africa, singing about your deep love, then build me up and make it happen. If your plan for me is to be single, so that im completely focused on you, then let that happen. I only want you Lord. Whatever your plan may be, make me obedient to it. For I only find true joy in you Lord. Continue planting me where im supposed to be, my life is completely in your hands Lord.
I am the LORD, and there is no other;
apart from me there is no God.
I will strengthen you,
though you have not acknowledged me,
so that from the rising of the sun
to the place of its setting
men may know there is none besides me.
I am the LORD, and there is no other.
I form the light and create darkness,
I bring prosperity and create disaster;
I, the LORD, do all these things.
"You heavens above, rain down righteousness;
let the clouds shower it down.
Let the earth open wide,
let salvation spring up,
let righteousness grow with it;
I, the LORD, have created it. (Isaiah 45:5-8)
Tonight Sara talked at Moanalua Gardens Church. But it wasnt Sara that we heard. It was God that we were listening to. God seriously spoke through her. Wish i recorded it, cuz it woulda made a gnarly pod cast! I always hear God speaking through her, and at times it really does shake my heart. its like "Shnikies!! God you really do work through people! I can see it right there!" When she talked about how we need to be broken for others, it really hit me. I need to learn that love for others. Hearing Sara's testimony again, really showed me that God really does do everything for a purpose. He guided her towards being in different states, meeting certain people, and kept showing her the vision of His plan. God really spoke to my heart tonight. He clearly told me tonight as i was surrounded by fellow brothers and sisters.."I am building you up. I am preparing you for what I have planned. I will make you strong in me." You will make me strong Lord? whaaat? And later in the car drive home.. "I will make you strong in faith, and you will lead my people." Wow God. Wow. Ok God, Strengthen me. Prepare me God, im ready to go. Lift me up on wings of eagles. Glue me down to Christ as my rock and as my foundation. Always humble me Lord. I would be lost in darkness without you. I need you. Equip me with your holy armor. Fill me up with your Spirit. Lead me, guide me, and use me for your purpose.
Everyone hits a high in their relationship with God. We are fueled by our relationship with God. But in the same way, we often slowly drift away from Him at times. We stumble, we fall short, we all wander away. We run out of fuel, and lose passion for Him at times. But the amazing thing is that He is always faithful. He never stops loving us. He draws us back to Him. He is always welcoming us with open arms, no matter how far astray we go. God is always there, even when we don't see or sense Him. He's right there waiting for us to come back home. We can never hide from Him, even if we ran to the farthest ends of the earth, He would be right there waiting for us. In Psalms 107 you mention how your love is unfailing, and forever enduring. When i thirst for you, my cup overflows. When i hunger for you, you feed me the bread of life. When i need you, you are right there beside me. When a sheep of the flock goes astray, u go and bring them back. You can not lose one that you've chosen. You see it from start to finish.
Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing. (Isaiah 40:26)
Lord, You are above all things. You are ruler of heaven and earth. You pour your undeserving love on us, and call us each by name. You are so good God. You love when we respond to you in awe. You hate when we turn away to false idols. You mourn when the lost dont turn from their ways, you hate it when people love the world more than you. Forgive us Lord. Renew our minds. Grow our faith and love abundantly. Show us your good, pleasing and perfect will and then conform us to it. Teach us how to truly love others. Let us outwardly express your love, and inwardly pray for those who need you. Bring people to fall in more love with you Lord. That they would leave their old lives behind, and start living a life for you. That men would have nothing but a burning passion for you. A desire so great, that all we would want is you Lord. Instill in us a fiery zeal and craving for you. Charge us up with a glowing light, that would shine before all men. Fill us up with ardent love for another and a hot torrid love for you. Reveal yourself to those who are blind, fill them with overwhelming joy. Use us Lord. Please use us. God do everything, let us only be ur vessels and not take any credit. Strengthen and build us up to disciple others. Teach me how to be broken over people who dont know you. That you would teach me how to love them and pray for them. Guide our generation into intense prayer and intimacy for you. That we would all come together to worship you. That it would bring people to know you. That this movement would travel across all lands and seas, proclaiming the name of Jesus to all nations. Everything is possible with you. We thank you for your grace.
Everyday you give us air to breathe, nature, food, music n art to enjoy, different cultures, opening opportunities, fun hobbies, beautiful relationships, close friendships, laughter, sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, feelings, emotions, and the ability to love.. Everyday you give us Life. It's all about you. Not about us, but about how wonderful you are Lord. Throw away my own desires, and give me ur desires. God I love ur simplicity, ur complexity, ur intensity, ur gentleness, ur meekness, ur tenderness, ur holiness, ur faithfulness, ur patience, ur compassion, ur creativity, ur authority, ur passion, ur strength, ur unconditional love and sheer awesomeness!! But with all this delicious goodness you gave us, we became blind prideful. Sin corrupted our hearts and minds. We loved sin, worldly pleasures, and were completely oblivious to you. All chose death. We looked to the world to fill our desires. We all turned away from you. And as a loving Father, you cried out to us, "Repent! Come back to me!" And still we chased after sin, because there is no good in our hearts. Sin completely brain washed us. So what did you do? You gave us a way back to you. You sent your only Son Jesus, to take the place of OUR sins. You died for us. You DIED for US!!? For MY sins!?! You are infinitely admirable. You loved us so much that you basically grabbed us out of sin, yanked me out of death, forgave us for all our sins, and then gave me new life! So i pray that with these new lives, we would no longer live for ourselves, but live entirely for you. I love you Lord, For you are good and ur love endures forever. Amen!
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.
"As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
We need to stop putting God in man's standards. We conceptualize Him in our human understanding. I cant help, but constantly ask God why or how He works. And then God responds back "Have faith my child, for I am with you." Basically He’s telling us to just trust Him. Worrying about our little problems takes away from our faith in Him. I always like to have things laid out on the table for me to see. But God's voice leads us step by step. He seriously has so much planned. How great is our God, that He would design the entire universe, design us in His own image, and plan out everything according to His will. His will, will be done on earth just as it is in heaven. Know why? Because He's in charge of everything. Nothing can stop His will. When God wants His will to be done on earth, He will definitely make it happen. Ok God, so now what do you want me to do!? "Lead my people." Lead your peoples?! Ru serious!? but how God?? "I will make myself known to them. I will do it. I will lead you. I will use you." God but there's so many people out there that don't know you. How can i show them you!? "Show them my love." God but how can i show them ur love? "I will work through you." Shnap! ok shoots God, take over! But you see, i wish i didnt hafta keep asking "But how God???" Why do i hesitate for so long? When God says go pick up that litter, why do i jus look at it, think and think about it for a minute, and then finally pick it up? When God says "Go talk to that person. Show them my love." Why do i sit there afraid, and jus think about it? When God says do something.. we need to do it instantly, and not hafta run it through our human minds. We let so many opportunities pass us by because we're too busy worrying about what might happen. God doesn't say "Well Chris, think about it first, and if u feel like it, then u should do it." God commands "GO!" Dont think about it, Dont worry about it, jus Go and do it. I'm learning to just have faith in Him. Stop questioning Him how He works, Just trust that He will take care of it. I want God to develop a faith in me so strong, so that when He tells me "Go!" or "Chris, Lead my people." I immediately and willingly jump out into action. Often God gives commands, and i stand on the sideline asking God a bunch of questions of how. I need to jus completely summit to Him, not worry, and follow His plan even tho I dont see the entire blue prints. We need to face that we can never ever fully grasp how He works. We just need to have faith. I think of how Peter walked on water to Jesus. Jesus called Peter to come to Him, and Peter did well, until He looked down and saw that he was actually walking on water. Peter focused on what he thought was impossible. He grew scared because in our human world view, walking on water is impossible (and yes Chris Angel is a fake). But you see, in the same way, we need to focus on Christ and not what we think is difficult. When we put our faith in Jesus, the impossible becomes very possible.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Phil 4:12-13)
God strengthens us. God has been continually building me up for His glory. God has seriously turned me away from sinful desires, and gave me a new heart. Of coarse we still sin, but it is no longer our core desire. All i want is Him. He's all we need. God has been disciplining, training, molding, and throwing all sorts of exciting things in my life. When God first called me to be a leader to His people, I was super hesitant. God why me? God ru sure this is what you want me to do?! God I dont think ill be strong enough. God this path looks too hard for me. God im scared. After crying out to Him, "Lord what do you want me to do! Show me!" and God clearly says to me "Have faith my child, for I am with you. You will lead my people. You will show them my Son, Jesus." ok God. If this is ur plan for me, then make it happen. If you want me to lead hundreds of people in a church, preaching your grace and forgiveness, then build me up and make it happen. If you want me to tend to people of Africa, singing about your deep love, then build me up and make it happen. If your plan for me is to be single, so that im completely focused on you, then let that happen. I only want you Lord. Whatever your plan may be, make me obedient to it. For I only find true joy in you Lord. Continue planting me where im supposed to be, my life is completely in your hands Lord.
I am the LORD, and there is no other;
apart from me there is no God.
I will strengthen you,
though you have not acknowledged me,
so that from the rising of the sun
to the place of its setting
men may know there is none besides me.
I am the LORD, and there is no other.
I form the light and create darkness,
I bring prosperity and create disaster;
I, the LORD, do all these things.
"You heavens above, rain down righteousness;
let the clouds shower it down.
Let the earth open wide,
let salvation spring up,
let righteousness grow with it;
I, the LORD, have created it. (Isaiah 45:5-8)
Tonight Sara talked at Moanalua Gardens Church. But it wasnt Sara that we heard. It was God that we were listening to. God seriously spoke through her. Wish i recorded it, cuz it woulda made a gnarly pod cast! I always hear God speaking through her, and at times it really does shake my heart. its like "Shnikies!! God you really do work through people! I can see it right there!" When she talked about how we need to be broken for others, it really hit me. I need to learn that love for others. Hearing Sara's testimony again, really showed me that God really does do everything for a purpose. He guided her towards being in different states, meeting certain people, and kept showing her the vision of His plan. God really spoke to my heart tonight. He clearly told me tonight as i was surrounded by fellow brothers and sisters.."I am building you up. I am preparing you for what I have planned. I will make you strong in me." You will make me strong Lord? whaaat? And later in the car drive home.. "I will make you strong in faith, and you will lead my people." Wow God. Wow. Ok God, Strengthen me. Prepare me God, im ready to go. Lift me up on wings of eagles. Glue me down to Christ as my rock and as my foundation. Always humble me Lord. I would be lost in darkness without you. I need you. Equip me with your holy armor. Fill me up with your Spirit. Lead me, guide me, and use me for your purpose.
Everyone hits a high in their relationship with God. We are fueled by our relationship with God. But in the same way, we often slowly drift away from Him at times. We stumble, we fall short, we all wander away. We run out of fuel, and lose passion for Him at times. But the amazing thing is that He is always faithful. He never stops loving us. He draws us back to Him. He is always welcoming us with open arms, no matter how far astray we go. God is always there, even when we don't see or sense Him. He's right there waiting for us to come back home. We can never hide from Him, even if we ran to the farthest ends of the earth, He would be right there waiting for us. In Psalms 107 you mention how your love is unfailing, and forever enduring. When i thirst for you, my cup overflows. When i hunger for you, you feed me the bread of life. When i need you, you are right there beside me. When a sheep of the flock goes astray, u go and bring them back. You can not lose one that you've chosen. You see it from start to finish.
Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing. (Isaiah 40:26)
Lord, You are above all things. You are ruler of heaven and earth. You pour your undeserving love on us, and call us each by name. You are so good God. You love when we respond to you in awe. You hate when we turn away to false idols. You mourn when the lost dont turn from their ways, you hate it when people love the world more than you. Forgive us Lord. Renew our minds. Grow our faith and love abundantly. Show us your good, pleasing and perfect will and then conform us to it. Teach us how to truly love others. Let us outwardly express your love, and inwardly pray for those who need you. Bring people to fall in more love with you Lord. That they would leave their old lives behind, and start living a life for you. That men would have nothing but a burning passion for you. A desire so great, that all we would want is you Lord. Instill in us a fiery zeal and craving for you. Charge us up with a glowing light, that would shine before all men. Fill us up with ardent love for another and a hot torrid love for you. Reveal yourself to those who are blind, fill them with overwhelming joy. Use us Lord. Please use us. God do everything, let us only be ur vessels and not take any credit. Strengthen and build us up to disciple others. Teach me how to be broken over people who dont know you. That you would teach me how to love them and pray for them. Guide our generation into intense prayer and intimacy for you. That we would all come together to worship you. That it would bring people to know you. That this movement would travel across all lands and seas, proclaiming the name of Jesus to all nations. Everything is possible with you. We thank you for your grace.
Everyday you give us air to breathe, nature, food, music n art to enjoy, different cultures, opening opportunities, fun hobbies, beautiful relationships, close friendships, laughter, sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, feelings, emotions, and the ability to love.. Everyday you give us Life. It's all about you. Not about us, but about how wonderful you are Lord. Throw away my own desires, and give me ur desires. God I love ur simplicity, ur complexity, ur intensity, ur gentleness, ur meekness, ur tenderness, ur holiness, ur faithfulness, ur patience, ur compassion, ur creativity, ur authority, ur passion, ur strength, ur unconditional love and sheer awesomeness!! But with all this delicious goodness you gave us, we became blind prideful. Sin corrupted our hearts and minds. We loved sin, worldly pleasures, and were completely oblivious to you. All chose death. We looked to the world to fill our desires. We all turned away from you. And as a loving Father, you cried out to us, "Repent! Come back to me!" And still we chased after sin, because there is no good in our hearts. Sin completely brain washed us. So what did you do? You gave us a way back to you. You sent your only Son Jesus, to take the place of OUR sins. You died for us. You DIED for US!!? For MY sins!?! You are infinitely admirable. You loved us so much that you basically grabbed us out of sin, yanked me out of death, forgave us for all our sins, and then gave me new life! So i pray that with these new lives, we would no longer live for ourselves, but live entirely for you. I love you Lord, For you are good and ur love endures forever. Amen!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
undeserving love
God you are truly so amazing...
God loves me!! The Father of heaven and earth, the ruler of the entire universe, cares for ME!?! I dont get it! i seriously dont get it! Why do you love us so much? Why do you love ME so much!!!? You dont need me, i cant give u anything u need, i am completely undeserving of ur forgiveness, ur grace, and most of all ur love. Ive turned away from you Lord. I was covered in sin, and you washed me clean, and then u clothed me with ur love n blessings. HUH!?!!? what?! why!? I didnt even seek you God. You chose me! ME!! U wanted ME to see ur kingdom?! I dont get it! YOU called me and gave me new life, YOU changed my heart, YOU instilled the holy spirit within me, when I was blind YOU gave me sight, YOU protected me when i was scared, YOU comforted me when i was broken, and then it was YOU who died for me. WHAT?!? i dont understand! I jus cant believe that my God loves me that much, that by His grace and love, He said "Chris, you're mine. I will provide for you. I will protect you. I will lead you. No one can snatch you out of my hand." oh my GOD! How wonderful you are. It's jus unbelievable that you would love me so deeply. It doesnt make any sense, that you my God, my Father, my Lord, and my King would give ur only Son to die for me! And save us from our sins. We dont deserve it at all.
Why did u send Jesus to pay the price of OUR sins? We back stabbed you, we betrayed you, we lost sight of you, and did evil wickedness. And yet you sent ur Son who willingly died for us, because you so loved the world. Why do u love the world? Why do u love us? Our world is so prideful, conceited, greedy, hateful, selfish, rotten, consumed by darkness, full of evil desires, and we even worship ourselves as idols… Wow God, ur LOVE is so incredibly AWESOME. Your love is so undeserving, so unconditional, so pure, so holy, so warm, so graceful, and so passionate, That even though we sinned, you forgave us through Christ. You justified us through faith in Jesus. You presented us with the only one worthy of atonement for all of our sins. Your love is so great, there is nothing i can do to make you love me any more or any less. I love when you speak to me, i love when you call me, i love when you comfort me, i love when you guide me, i love when you restore me, i love you because you first loved me.
"Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." (romans 5:18-19)
We are purified and wiped clean because ur Son Jesus Christ bore OUR sins on that cross. He is our only connection to you Lord. We are reconciled only through faith and repentance in Him, When born again, we find everlasting life to share with you! And lastly u are so awesome God, that u allowed us to have a intimate relationship with you. All I want is YOU! Everything else is meaningless. NOTHING else in this world will ever satisfy us. I cant stop thinking about you God! I want to spend every minute with you. Be on my mind always. I love falling asleep to ur peace, and waking up to ur voice. I love learning about ur character. For you say "I am." and i say "You are." You ARE Truth, you ARE Love. You ARE everything that is good. God You're so big! I jus wanna shout it on top of a mountain. But u hear me even when my heart whispers.
Your love is so overwhelming, its almost too much for me to contain inside me! my heart trembles just thinking about ur love. My mind jus wants to burst, because it cant even fathom how almighty you are. Everything else in this world combined and multiplied by a billion, is still nothing compared to knowing your love. Man's understanding of your love, does'nt even begin to scratch the surface. What does it mean to truly love you? Loving u means we have a passion. Not a passion for church, ministry, missionary work, evangelism, singing songs, or reading the bible. Loving you means we have the deepest passion for you, and you alone. A passion to know you and be close to you. And if we find that desiring passion for you, everything else jus seems to follow. Its always been all about you God. Everything in life points back to you. You are our creator, you molded us, shaped us, and gave us life. You designed us and then call us to be a part of your will. So I gladly give my life to you, I will follow u all of my days, I surrender all to you God, because i am yours.
"The love of God is not God's making much of us, but God's saving us from self centered sin so that we can enjoy making much of him forever. And our love to others is not our making much of them, but our helping them to find eternal satisfaction in making much of God. The only ultimate love is a love that aims at satisfying people in the glory of God. Any love that terminates on man is eventually destructive. It does not lead a person to only lasting joy, namely, God. Love must be God-centered or it is not the greatest love; it leaves people without their deepest need and only hope." (John Piper)
How can u see or feel God's love?? How can you not!? Look at this beautiful earth He provided us! Look at all his creation, his design, and his mind blowing wonders. Look at his perfect and pleasing will. I can feel the presence of ur love when the wind brushes pass me in the shade, i can hear the sound of your love when u pour tiny raindrops on the land, I can see the beauty of ur love when u rise up forest of trees n unique creatures of life, I can feel the warmth of ur love when the sun shines over me, I can see the power n strength of ur love through the vast valleys of mountains, I can feel ur love leading me when the ocean waves direct me, I can see the gentleness of ur love through a child’s smile and laughter, and I know ur great compassionate, enduring, everlasting, infinite, ultimate, supreme, pure, patient, and unconditional love that words cannot even describe, when you my God saved me.
Daddy, Now that i see, taste, hear, feel, and know your love, How do i love on others? Show me how to love them!! How do i show them ur character n grace? How can i show them you? Work through me Lord. Humble my pride Lord. Let me only be a vessel for ur message. Let Christ reign down in the hearts of men. Draw me closer to u, and continue molding me everyday Lord God. Use me to lead ur people towards your name. Let me be a slave to u, a servant to others, and be the salt n light of this world. Let ur will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. May everyone else see what i see. Show them what uve shown me. Make ur desires my desires, and make ur values my values. Make me hunger for you 24/7 God. I love you Lord. I love you Lord. I love you Lord!!! You are good. And your love endures forever. Amen!
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
God loves me!! The Father of heaven and earth, the ruler of the entire universe, cares for ME!?! I dont get it! i seriously dont get it! Why do you love us so much? Why do you love ME so much!!!? You dont need me, i cant give u anything u need, i am completely undeserving of ur forgiveness, ur grace, and most of all ur love. Ive turned away from you Lord. I was covered in sin, and you washed me clean, and then u clothed me with ur love n blessings. HUH!?!!? what?! why!? I didnt even seek you God. You chose me! ME!! U wanted ME to see ur kingdom?! I dont get it! YOU called me and gave me new life, YOU changed my heart, YOU instilled the holy spirit within me, when I was blind YOU gave me sight, YOU protected me when i was scared, YOU comforted me when i was broken, and then it was YOU who died for me. WHAT?!? i dont understand! I jus cant believe that my God loves me that much, that by His grace and love, He said "Chris, you're mine. I will provide for you. I will protect you. I will lead you. No one can snatch you out of my hand." oh my GOD! How wonderful you are. It's jus unbelievable that you would love me so deeply. It doesnt make any sense, that you my God, my Father, my Lord, and my King would give ur only Son to die for me! And save us from our sins. We dont deserve it at all.
Why did u send Jesus to pay the price of OUR sins? We back stabbed you, we betrayed you, we lost sight of you, and did evil wickedness. And yet you sent ur Son who willingly died for us, because you so loved the world. Why do u love the world? Why do u love us? Our world is so prideful, conceited, greedy, hateful, selfish, rotten, consumed by darkness, full of evil desires, and we even worship ourselves as idols… Wow God, ur LOVE is so incredibly AWESOME. Your love is so undeserving, so unconditional, so pure, so holy, so warm, so graceful, and so passionate, That even though we sinned, you forgave us through Christ. You justified us through faith in Jesus. You presented us with the only one worthy of atonement for all of our sins. Your love is so great, there is nothing i can do to make you love me any more or any less. I love when you speak to me, i love when you call me, i love when you comfort me, i love when you guide me, i love when you restore me, i love you because you first loved me.
"Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." (romans 5:18-19)
We are purified and wiped clean because ur Son Jesus Christ bore OUR sins on that cross. He is our only connection to you Lord. We are reconciled only through faith and repentance in Him, When born again, we find everlasting life to share with you! And lastly u are so awesome God, that u allowed us to have a intimate relationship with you. All I want is YOU! Everything else is meaningless. NOTHING else in this world will ever satisfy us. I cant stop thinking about you God! I want to spend every minute with you. Be on my mind always. I love falling asleep to ur peace, and waking up to ur voice. I love learning about ur character. For you say "I am." and i say "You are." You ARE Truth, you ARE Love. You ARE everything that is good. God You're so big! I jus wanna shout it on top of a mountain. But u hear me even when my heart whispers.
Your love is so overwhelming, its almost too much for me to contain inside me! my heart trembles just thinking about ur love. My mind jus wants to burst, because it cant even fathom how almighty you are. Everything else in this world combined and multiplied by a billion, is still nothing compared to knowing your love. Man's understanding of your love, does'nt even begin to scratch the surface. What does it mean to truly love you? Loving u means we have a passion. Not a passion for church, ministry, missionary work, evangelism, singing songs, or reading the bible. Loving you means we have the deepest passion for you, and you alone. A passion to know you and be close to you. And if we find that desiring passion for you, everything else jus seems to follow. Its always been all about you God. Everything in life points back to you. You are our creator, you molded us, shaped us, and gave us life. You designed us and then call us to be a part of your will. So I gladly give my life to you, I will follow u all of my days, I surrender all to you God, because i am yours.
"The love of God is not God's making much of us, but God's saving us from self centered sin so that we can enjoy making much of him forever. And our love to others is not our making much of them, but our helping them to find eternal satisfaction in making much of God. The only ultimate love is a love that aims at satisfying people in the glory of God. Any love that terminates on man is eventually destructive. It does not lead a person to only lasting joy, namely, God. Love must be God-centered or it is not the greatest love; it leaves people without their deepest need and only hope." (John Piper)
How can u see or feel God's love?? How can you not!? Look at this beautiful earth He provided us! Look at all his creation, his design, and his mind blowing wonders. Look at his perfect and pleasing will. I can feel the presence of ur love when the wind brushes pass me in the shade, i can hear the sound of your love when u pour tiny raindrops on the land, I can see the beauty of ur love when u rise up forest of trees n unique creatures of life, I can feel the warmth of ur love when the sun shines over me, I can see the power n strength of ur love through the vast valleys of mountains, I can feel ur love leading me when the ocean waves direct me, I can see the gentleness of ur love through a child’s smile and laughter, and I know ur great compassionate, enduring, everlasting, infinite, ultimate, supreme, pure, patient, and unconditional love that words cannot even describe, when you my God saved me.
Daddy, Now that i see, taste, hear, feel, and know your love, How do i love on others? Show me how to love them!! How do i show them ur character n grace? How can i show them you? Work through me Lord. Humble my pride Lord. Let me only be a vessel for ur message. Let Christ reign down in the hearts of men. Draw me closer to u, and continue molding me everyday Lord God. Use me to lead ur people towards your name. Let me be a slave to u, a servant to others, and be the salt n light of this world. Let ur will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. May everyone else see what i see. Show them what uve shown me. Make ur desires my desires, and make ur values my values. Make me hunger for you 24/7 God. I love you Lord. I love you Lord. I love you Lord!!! You are good. And your love endures forever. Amen!
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
WoW GOD!! ur so BIG!!
hi blogspot, nice to meetchya, im chris
im super new and dont know how to add and subscribe to other ppls blog, maybe someone can help?
i still feel at home with xanga but maybe blogspot will be like tryin on new shoes. btw please pardon my slang writing and bad grammar for this blog.
classes are actually pretty interesting this year, hopefully i dont end up slackin off like i usually do. I finally got my class schedule better. im takin HAW, EDEA, PSY, PSY, THEA.
k now that we caught up with school and all, we can talk about God!!!
i seriously love growing in passion for Christ. Now days it seems i want to spend every minute with Him. I think its because i started thinkin about where i was at with my intimacy with God. Throughout this summer, ive focused on studying theology, learning more about what Jesus commanded, how i should conform my life to his desires, growing in worship, leading bible studies, gaining more self discipline, evangelizing and sharing Jesus with non-believers, learning about Calvinism views, watchin sermon podcast, reading devotions, and learning about all the technical things about the bible. Thats all super good stuff, but ive realized that i was missing a huge part in all of this. Prayer!
When i normally pray, its a real quick thank you, or a couple minutes before i sleep. But boy that changed quick. Our relationship with Jesus is much more important than following all the norms of the Christian religion. But then after thinkin about it choke kine, i realized that in order to have a relationship with Jesus, we need to spend time praying. Prayer for me was like leaving a message on God's answering machine. But lately, praying, or even jus sitting in silence, has become soooo intimate. I no longer feel that it's a long distance call, God is right there with and within me. He knows everything thats going on in our lives, but still loves it when we communicate it with him. Lately ive also been able to hear God. I always like to make sure its God im hearing, And when God is talking...oh.. its God talking!! u jus know. He can speak to us through our thoughts and impress his will on our heart with what he wants us to know. He affirms it through the Holy Spirit within us so we can have confidence when he speaks to us to various ways. Knowing that im followin what God has planned for me, is very very comforting. When i ask God, is this what u want me to do? And God responds, "Yes!" i get all filled up with joy, because i get to be a part of Gods plan!
Another thing ive learned, is that just listening and seeing God is super powerful. Sometimes it's nice to stop and feel the little rain drops, see the sun illuminating the clouds, feel the warmth of the sunshine, watch the trees wave hello in the cool wind, and to admire all of God's glory in nature. When in nature, or quietness, God clearly brings peace to heart. As a response to God's love, I find praise and an abundance of love for Him. God is Good! Nothing else can truly satisfy us. And then i look at the people of the world, and wonder why are so many lost? Why dont they see or hear God? If only everyone could know and experience God's love. But no, sin, pride, and lust have corrupted minds and hearts. we've made worldly pleasures into idols. They have become too comfortable in loving the world and themselves before God. To many it's inconceivable that there could be something greater, such as purpose, life, blessings, grace, forgiveness, purity, peace, patience, and an infinite love from God the Father. And so what is the solution? Show them God's love!! Be mini Christ to them! Tell the world that Jesus lives!
+epic high school ministry has been goin awesome! we had 150+ kids come to our back to school bash,
+ohana groups for epic has been super challenging, because u really hafta break it down into pieces for the kids to chew on, sometimes the big complex chunks jus confuse them
+epic underground small groups has been dying out, cuz me and my friend have been kinda lazy tryin to run it, or maybe jus too busy
+bible study with my friends have been goin well, butt could use a big excitement energy charge
+K-Cru with campus crusades is jus startin up, and so far everythings been comin together
+ 24/7 prayer which sara recently introduced me to is super exciting! i really feel God has been pushin me to focus more on the intimacy part
ahh its like 2am now, jus too much stuff on my mind, k time fo' go sleep, im pooped!
im super new and dont know how to add and subscribe to other ppls blog, maybe someone can help?
i still feel at home with xanga but maybe blogspot will be like tryin on new shoes. btw please pardon my slang writing and bad grammar for this blog.
classes are actually pretty interesting this year, hopefully i dont end up slackin off like i usually do. I finally got my class schedule better. im takin HAW, EDEA, PSY, PSY, THEA.
k now that we caught up with school and all, we can talk about God!!!
i seriously love growing in passion for Christ. Now days it seems i want to spend every minute with Him. I think its because i started thinkin about where i was at with my intimacy with God. Throughout this summer, ive focused on studying theology, learning more about what Jesus commanded, how i should conform my life to his desires, growing in worship, leading bible studies, gaining more self discipline, evangelizing and sharing Jesus with non-believers, learning about Calvinism views, watchin sermon podcast, reading devotions, and learning about all the technical things about the bible. Thats all super good stuff, but ive realized that i was missing a huge part in all of this. Prayer!
When i normally pray, its a real quick thank you, or a couple minutes before i sleep. But boy that changed quick. Our relationship with Jesus is much more important than following all the norms of the Christian religion. But then after thinkin about it choke kine, i realized that in order to have a relationship with Jesus, we need to spend time praying. Prayer for me was like leaving a message on God's answering machine. But lately, praying, or even jus sitting in silence, has become soooo intimate. I no longer feel that it's a long distance call, God is right there with and within me. He knows everything thats going on in our lives, but still loves it when we communicate it with him. Lately ive also been able to hear God. I always like to make sure its God im hearing, And when God is talking...oh.. its God talking!! u jus know. He can speak to us through our thoughts and impress his will on our heart with what he wants us to know. He affirms it through the Holy Spirit within us so we can have confidence when he speaks to us to various ways. Knowing that im followin what God has planned for me, is very very comforting. When i ask God, is this what u want me to do? And God responds, "Yes!" i get all filled up with joy, because i get to be a part of Gods plan!
Another thing ive learned, is that just listening and seeing God is super powerful. Sometimes it's nice to stop and feel the little rain drops, see the sun illuminating the clouds, feel the warmth of the sunshine, watch the trees wave hello in the cool wind, and to admire all of God's glory in nature. When in nature, or quietness, God clearly brings peace to heart. As a response to God's love, I find praise and an abundance of love for Him. God is Good! Nothing else can truly satisfy us. And then i look at the people of the world, and wonder why are so many lost? Why dont they see or hear God? If only everyone could know and experience God's love. But no, sin, pride, and lust have corrupted minds and hearts. we've made worldly pleasures into idols. They have become too comfortable in loving the world and themselves before God. To many it's inconceivable that there could be something greater, such as purpose, life, blessings, grace, forgiveness, purity, peace, patience, and an infinite love from God the Father. And so what is the solution? Show them God's love!! Be mini Christ to them! Tell the world that Jesus lives!
+epic high school ministry has been goin awesome! we had 150+ kids come to our back to school bash,
+ohana groups for epic has been super challenging, because u really hafta break it down into pieces for the kids to chew on, sometimes the big complex chunks jus confuse them
+epic underground small groups has been dying out, cuz me and my friend have been kinda lazy tryin to run it, or maybe jus too busy
+bible study with my friends have been goin well, butt could use a big excitement energy charge
+K-Cru with campus crusades is jus startin up, and so far everythings been comin together
+ 24/7 prayer which sara recently introduced me to is super exciting! i really feel God has been pushin me to focus more on the intimacy part
ahh its like 2am now, jus too much stuff on my mind, k time fo' go sleep, im pooped!
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