Good Opportunities vs. God Opportunities

I've heard it said if the devil can't close doors he'll open them. I've found that to be true in my own life. I'm about to turn 32 in a few days, and lately find myself thinking back at some pivotal points in my life and remember the God Opportunities. I believe I wouldn't be here today without taking those faith steps and following God's will. I also clearly remember that during those times there were many good opportunities, and maybe to some would seem great. I had the opportunity to be on staff at other churches, or climbing up the career ladder, even had a full 4 year scholarship; but during those times I found myself most confused. See these opportunities were not offered to me because of how great I was, because in all honesty, I wasn't that great. Looking back, I realize that they were just good opportunities. They might have landed me a great job, I'm sure with a house on a nice neighborhood with a white picket fence, and yet my heart would have been settling for the "good life." Well, I'm glad I didn't settle for anything less. I've been blessed beyond what I can ever imagine and continue to see God's purpose unfold in my life. I live to seek these God Opportunities every day. Sometimes it's may just be people who God has crossed along my path whom I'm to be a witness to, other times, the opportunities change my course and direction in life all-together. One thing is for sure, every one comes with the blessing of God's companionship. See when we're in the center of God's will, we're not only blessed by the outcome, but we are blessed by God's fellowship through the process. My prayer today is that you will seek out God Opportunities - may His light shine ever so clearly, and may His voice resonate in the chambers of our hearts. Live life to the fullest, pursue His purpose, and experience God Opportunities!

My experience with "Discipleship"

So today during staff chapel my pastor asked us about our experience with discipleship. After listening to others talk about their views on discipleship I began to think about how this has shaped my faith. In my life I’ve grown in my faith through different means. Being raised in a Christian home I was taught early on healthy habits such as daily prayer, scripture reading, and memorization. The older I grew I realized that there needed to be a connection between my mind and my heart. The principals and foundation that my parents and church taught me needed to become personal. In my heart I needed to know why I believed what I believed. By no means have I mastered my journey in my faith, but through it all I’ve picked up some things that have helped me remain grounded.

1. Nurture my personal relationship with God through daily devotions.
2. Getting connected to a fellowship that fully believes and practices the word of God and helping put action to the vision of the local church to see God’s Kingdom advance throughout the community and world.
3. I’ve learned that by surrounding myself with family and friends that will spiritually challenge me and hold me accountable helps me to be grow as a Christ follower.

As I’m reminded of the words of my pastor last Sunday, I’m challenged to FINISH STRONG. As we share life with family and friends, may we sharpen each other and not only be open to be discipled but also makes disciples as Christ has commanded.

Sneak peak at tomorrow's service.

Well, our pastor and service program director are in Africa this week, so this week one of our staff pastors is speaking.  We're excited for their return as we prepare for a "Because We Can - Malawi Missions" service.  But can't forget this coming week.  I've been so anxious for tomorrow's service to be here already... I'm also excited about the music we have lined up, starting with a couple of PVC's familiar songs, and cutting to an acoustic set with some classics and ending with a great special.... This is what it's gonna look like tomorrow.  If you haven't heard the Jadon Lavik song, you should check it out... anyway... i'll let you know how it went tomorrow.  

• Come Thou Fount - Gateway Worship
• Happy Day - North Point Live
• Nothing But the Blood - Jadon Lavik
• Here I Am To Worship - Candi Pearson Shelton

closing special

• And Now My Lifesong Sings - Casting Crowns

it's monday...

What a weekend, beginning with Friday's Communion at Palm Valley Church, with over 500 people coming through to make time to remember the Lord's sacrifice.  What a great time. Followed by attendance breaking Sunday services, our teams did an amazing job. But the words of my pastor always echo in my mind when he says "it's the Sunday AFTER Easter that really matters" meaning that we must always be consistent, from week to week always be sharp, always work as hard. And the truth is, it pays off, it's all about the God's plan for humanity, to save the lost, and lead us to a fulfilled life. So being Easter Sunday or any other Sunday, the program will come together with work and hard work, but always keep our eyes towards God and His passion for the lost. I believe that's what this world may want to see, a genuine care and love for them, and something in us they desire, that being Christ, not just a great performance once or twice a year.  So on that note, off to work looking forward to amazing services this coming Wednesday and Sunday.

Easter never get's old...

Easter without Jesus would be empty, hopeless.  It would be the worst day in the history of mankind.  I've realized that God's plan for my life involved the death of His only Son.  To be able to accomplish the plan for which He created me, He had to be willing to allow His son to endure the pain of crucifixion.  Why do people still choose to not serve a God that loves so much?

Selfishness - As if I deserved the life I have.  As if I worked so hard to achieve what I have.

Nothing else keeps man from God than the unwillingness to relinquish his rights and surrender all.  Selfishness leads people to do the most senseless things.  Selfishness leads people to hurt others.  Selfishness feeds greed, pride, and  hate.  Selfishness is the opposite of the example set before us by God and his Son, Jesus Christ.  So what does Easter mean to me?  Easter was the surrender of self.  That's where Jesus gave up His desires and chose to obey His Father's will.  Just so that we just might have a chance to accept Him.  He wasn't assured we'd receive His gift of redemption, it was just an option for us, after all we have a free will right?  But how can I reject the One who loved me so much He gave up so much for my wretched soul.  He had the most to lose. Where would I be without Christ?  I would be living a life without purpose, headed no where.  With the hope of nothing.   And upon death, I'd be in hell.  I'd be in a place away from creator.  I'd spend eternity without the warmth of His Spirit, without the light of His presence.  No thanks, I choose to live a life that counts for something.  I choose Christ.  For me, to live is Christ.  And His purpose is my call.  And it's through the blood of Jesus Christ I am His son. Easter is a reminder, that I didn't get what I deserved, but I was given a purpose that is greater than my ability to accomplish on my own, but through the power of His Spirit, we can testify of His gift of love, and believe that we can make a difference for eternity for someone.