P.U.S.H.

"P.U.S.H." Pray Until Something Happens!
Current mood: Prayerful!
Category: Prayerful! Life

P.U.S.H. - Pray Until Something Happens

For me, prayer has always been work. I like to pray as I go, but I have never been one that was good at just sitting down and waiting on the Lord. I've never been good at "waiting" on anthing for that matter .

However, something has changed... God is doing a wonderful work in me concerning prayer. I can't even articulate it... I can't wait to get to my prayer closet... actually it's my "Prayer Porch."

God has been calling me to extended times of prayer. Pastor Jim Cymbala of the Brooklyn Tabernacle says this: "God has given us many and precious promises if we pray. If we don't pray, He promises nothing - nothing at all! It's just that simple."

Here's a simple takeaway that might help you in your prayer life:

P.U.S.H. - Pray Until Something Happens!

I've broken it down into some simple PUSH Points...

1. Pray - Just do it!
2. Persist - Ask and keep on asking! (see Matt 7:7-8)
3. Prevail - Stay on it!
4. Pursue - Don't give up! Be a God-Chaser!
5. Prostrate - Humble yourself... get on your knees and fight like a man!
6. Pour out - Nothing moves the hand of God like spiritual hunger! Get desparate!
7. Press In - Believe that you receive what you ask of Him! (see Mk 11:24)
8. Press Through - In the words of Sir Winston Churchill, "Never quit. Never quit. Never quit."

I believe many of God's personal promises to us have been "DELAYED" because we have not learned to "P.U.S.H."

As for me... I'm PUSHing with everything I have!

Blessings,
Pastor J

Just Pray Up! Keeping it Simple

I was sitting in a coffee house a number of years ago in Southern California and I noticed a small and unpretentious sign hanging on a post. It read, "Sit long, Talk Much." I was captivated by this little sign and I kept glancing at it again and again. It became a good distraction to me at that time.

For me, this little phrase captures the essence of prayer. In our tendency to complicate everything in our world, we have even managed to complicate prayer to the point that most people begin to wonder, "Why bother?" I mean, after all, if you haven't read the latest book on "Governmental Intercession" or "Spiritual Mapping" then your prayers aren't going to do much good... or are they?

I have a simple takeaway today: "Just Pray Up!"

I tend to take the simpleton's philosophy: K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Saint!

Here are some Keys to Keeping it Simple when it comes to prayer.

Keep it Short, Focused and to the Point i.e. It doesn't have to be long to be effective. In Jesus' sermon on the lake (okay, "mount" if you have to be religious about it... I prefer to be accurate) he tells them not to babble or ramble on in prayer thinking they will be heard for their ability to "Go Long."

I've been in some prayer meetings where it became a "Pray Off" between wild-eyed intercessors and insecure pastors. Let's see who can go the longest and thereby be more "spiritual!" Okay, now I'm getting personal... just stay on task in this thing. Our Father already knows what we need before we ask... just ask.

Calm down, relax and speak directly - It doesn't have to be loud to be authoritative. We tend to associate volume with authority. It's as though we are trying to convince ourselves of our authority more than the principalities and powers that we are coming against! When Jesus rebuked the storm, cast out demons or healed someone, he simply spoke the word and it was done. Why? Because he was confident of his authority so he didn't need volume... just speak to your mountain, don't yell at it.

Pray with persistence and conviction - It doesn't have to be lavish (over the top) to be powerful. My Nanny (dad's mommy) prayed for all her grandchildren to be saved for years... and years! Talk about persistence! Eventually I caved because of the effectual and fervent prayers of this righteous woman (Jm 5:16). Just keep praying even if you don't get an answer the first week or two!

Remember, "Sit Long, Talk Much." Keep it Simple. Jesus is waiting to have a talk with you.

If you want to hear this message you can go to www.morningstarabilene.com and click on the "headphones" and it will take you to the messages page.

Keeping It Simple,
Pastor J

You're a Runner... So Run Your Race!

You're a Runner, so Run Your Race!
Current mood: Inspired!
Category: Life

You're a Runner... So Run Your Race!

It was 1988 in Seoul S. Korea. Derek Redmund was a heavy favorite to win the 400 meters. As the gun went off, eight men took off in a dead sprint for a one lap fast and furious race. At the midway point one runner, Derek Redmund, crashed onto the track in a heap writhing in pain, his achilles tendon had snapped. His Olympic gold dream was gone in a moment.

It was 1992 in Barcelona Spain. Dered Redmumd had spent four long and grueling years rehabilitating his injury and was in race form and again favored to win the 400 meters. The gun went off and again eight men started in a flury toward the finish line. The crowd was on it's feet and the media was covering this "comeback" story in hopes of a great Olympic moment. Then suddenly, as if an instant replay was happening, Derek Redmund crashed onto the track as his hamstring snapped!

The crowd was stunned as seven men went on to complete the race. Derek attempted to stand to no avail. The paramedics ran to him and tried to get him to sit down and yet he continued to try to get up.

Suddenly, one man broke through the security line and rushed to the wounded runner. They had a brief conversation and then they stood together and began to lumber toward the finish line in what would be a world record for the slowest Olympic 400 meter in history.

As they awkwardly approached the finish line, 100,000 fans stood to their feet in a thunderous show of support for the ailing runner who was determined to finish his race. As they crossed the finish line together the crowd was roaring and cheering... one of the Olympics greatest stories unfolded for the world to see.

Oh... and about that conversation... it went like this:

Jim: "You don't have to do this."

Derek: "Yes I do!"

Jim: "Then we will do it together!

At that moment, Jim Redmund, Derek's dad helped him to his feet and they ran the final stretch together.

"Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses... let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Heb 12:1

We need to realize that all of us have a race to run. In other words, God has given you an assignment, a lane assignment, if you will. It is unique to you. No one can run the race for you, but others can help and give you support.

Also, you're not running alone. There is a great cloud of witnesses that have gone before us that are standing to their feet and cheering us on! The heavenly host is doing the wave as you make each step toward completing your race!

And finally, God has not told you to win the race, only to run it! In our culture we have come to believe that being in first place is the only place. However, in God's eyes, to willingly participate and run the race the best you can is winning!

How about you? Are you running your race? Are staying in your lane? The Bible tells us in Isaiah, "If you be willing and obedient you will eat the good of the land." Some of us are obedient, but are we a willing runner in this race?

I want to inspire courage in you today to run your race and celebrate each step you take toward the finish line... we're all cheering you on! Remember, "You're a Runner, so Run Your Race!"

If you would like to hear this message then go to my website at www.morningstarabilene.com and click on "Click here to listen to Pastor Jimmy's Sermons."

Running,
Pastor J

Just Show Up

Current mood: Expectant!
Category: Life

Just Show Up!

In my time on this spinning ball (Earth) I've had quite an array of cars. Some stand out in a big and sometimes scary way! When I was in college I was given a 1972 Ford Pinto. Yes, that was model that would explode on impact if you were ever "rear ended!" I really learned about defensive driving when I had that car.

However, as ugly and dangerous as that car was, you could not kill it! It just ran and ran and ran... like the "Energizer Bunny!" It had an engine and wheels. No a/c, no radio, no upholstery! But it was dependable.

On another occasion I owned a Lexus SC300. Now that car had some bling bling! It had custom wheels and as for the features they would be too many to list! It was a sweet ride! On the other hand, one day it caught on fire... but that's for another message!

As I was praying the other day, the Lord reminded me of a simple but profound truth: Two cars, two styles, but at the end of the day they delivered the cargo!

In other words, whatever occupied those two very different vehicles, got delivered to it's destination just the same. Why is this important?

Because you are a "vehicle," a "carrier" of the Holy Spirit. The Bible calls you "The Temple of the Holy Spirit." The takeaway for today is "Just Show Up!" If you are there, then the presence of God is there! That's right... on the jobsite, at Walmart, at the office, on the ball field and in the bathroom for that matter!

Wherever you go "He" is there, because you are the vehicle i.e. the carrier of the Spirit of the Living God. When you "Just Show Up" He shows up. When you don't show up, He doesn't show up!

In other words, your presence is needed! God allows His presence, His "treasure" to be carried around in what the Bible calls "Earthen Vessels" or "Jars of Clay."

Remember, awareness is power! I want to remind you today that your presence is needed because whether you are a Pinto or a Lexus, you deliver the goods!

Be Encouraged and Blessed Today!

Showing Up,
Pastor J

How Big Does it have to be to be God?

For many it seems that it has to be spectacular or extraordinary to be God. Unfortunately we tend to miss God in the normal & mundane moments of life. When we discuss the Gifts of the Spirit there is a tendency for us to "default" to the big stuff... revival, spiritual awakening or a miraculous intervention.

But what about the fact that God is interacting in your affairs everyday... yes, even in the small things.

How is this for a "takeaway": It doesn't have to be big to be God.

I wince to think how many times I have failed to connect my "prayer requests" with the answers from God in the small things in my daily life i.e. an encourging note, email or phone call when I needed a touch from God; a smile from a courteous clerk who had no idea of the kind of day I was having; a seemingly random hug from my 5 year old that made me feel that all my challenges or "issues" were insignificant.

Here's one for you. I went to bed a 11:15pm and awoke at 1:30am. I never went back to sleep. Stressed?... no. Worried?... no. In pain?... no. I simply spent the entire night praying and thanking God for anyone and everyone He brought to my mind. It's not a big thing... I didn't weep and wail in intercession... I simply asked the Holy Spirit to bring to my mind anyone He wanted me to pray for... wow... that got my tired mind moving. It was a glorious night... and morning!

That may not seem like a "Big-Thing" but I can tell you for sure it was a "God-Thing."

I want to encourage this week to look for God in the small things... you know... the daily things. He's there. Remember, it doesn't have to be big to be God.

Enjoying God in the Small Things!
Pastor J

Focus on the Gifts of the Spirit

Focus on the Gifts of the Spirit
Current mood: Graced!

God is such a good Daddy that He has blessed his children with wonderful Gifts that enable us to live this life with victory, enthusiasm and power. He has not charged to live this live without giving us the equipment to do so. That would be cruel to tell someone to do something and yet not give them the tools to do it.

Spiritual Gifts are a topic that has been controversial in the church. It's just like the Enemy to bring confusion to something that is so needed and vital to each and every believer. Yet, the subject of spiritual gifts is really quite simple. I hope I can "de-clutter" the issue for you today.

Takeaway: It Doesnt Have to be Spooky to be Spiritual!

Getting a Grip on the Gifts of the Spirit

1. The What and the Why - The Gifts of the Spirit are just that Gifts OF the Spirit given for empowerment of the individual and the encouragement of all.

-Empowerment you need power to live this life of faith and walk in victory.

-Encouragement these gifts are not for your entertainment, they are for building up the body of Christ i.e. the Church (Jesus Spiritual Family).

Rm 12:3-8 - For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith NKJV

-We are not clones! All the members do not have the same function! Enjoy our differences! Thats why I love this church!!!

-There is Grace (Gods Power, Strength, Ability and Favor) to employ and activate the Gifts of the Spirit!

2. The How - Q: How do we receive the Gifts of the Spirit? A: By Faith.

-When you receive the Holy Spirit you receive His Gifts Its a Package Deal!

- How do I know I have Spiritual Gifts? They will surface naturally as needs arise.

Rom 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them NKJV

3. The Result - People get equipped to do ministry and the Church/Body gets edified (build up, teach or encourage).

Eph 4:7-8 - But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift. 8 Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." Eph 4:11-12 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. NKJV

-You fulfill your purpose for being on this earth and you make a big deal out of God!

-You enjoy the Blessed Life, walk in Victory, make an Impact on your world and get to see changed lives as a result of the Spirit working through you!

I do hope this helps to bring some clarity. Have an great week!

Blessings and Grace to You!
Pastor J

Focus on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

Current mood: Expectant!
Category: Life

Focus on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

It's just like the Enemy to take something God has given as a wonderful gift and pervert and confuse it to the point that some people and even whole denominations run from it like the plague. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is one of those wonderful gifts that has been twisted and distorted beyond recognition.

Acts 1:5 ...but you shall be baptized with (in/by) the Holy Spirit not many days from now.

Jesus was clear. There was a "baptism" with the Holy Spirit coming and it was the awaited Promise of the Father. The word Baptism means to overwhelm, immerse, submerge, and dip repeatedly until a change takes effect. It's what you do to a cucumber to transform it into a pickle! We need to be "pickled" in the Holy Spirit until a change takes effect.

Here's the Phrase that Pays:

The Holy Spirit is "Resident" in every believer, but He wants to be the "President" of every believer.

So the question you must answer is this: Do you know the Holy Spirit as "Resident" or "President?"

The word Preside as defined means to exercise authoritative control or power over i.e. president of a corporation or nation. A resident resides, but a president presides.

Understanding the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

1. The What and Why - The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is for the empowerment of the believer externally in order to be living representatives of Jesus in the earth.

Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon (epi - over on/towards) you and you shall be witnesses to Me...

2. The How - This is where people seem to get confused. There has been a fair amount of "weirdness" attached to receiving the Baptism (that's probably a gross understatement!).

There are many external signs that people and religious groups have attached to the baptism. This unfortunate trend has caused many poeple who could benefit from this wonderful gift from God to run in the opposite direction.

The Enemy often uses Extremism to condition believers to react to and repel legitimate gifts and blessings.

How do we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?

a. ASK by faith (just like you were born again by grace through faith).
b. RECEIVE by faith (acknowledge it's yours when you ask).
c. GIVE THANKS for it... again by faith.

Luke 11:13 ...how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!

It's so simple we miss it. Again, it goes back to the Enemy's strategy to condition us not to receive God's best for our lives.

3. The Result - We literally become Ambassadors/Representatives of Jesus Christ with his full authority to demonstrate and do what He did while on the earth!

2 Cor 5:20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us...

1 John 4:17 Because as He is, so are we in this world.

In our assignment to represent the King of Kings and the Most High God, we need the utmost immersion into His Spirit so that we might accurately and powerfully represent Him in this world!

What an honor! What a priviledge to represent the King! Blessings to you as you seek to go deeper and further in your walk with Jesus. My prayer for you is that you will not just have more "Information", but that you will have greater "revelation" of His Truth...for you shall know the Truth and the Truth will make you free.

Expectant,
Pastor J

Focus on the Spirit-filled Life!

Current mood: Expectant!
Category: Life

It's easy to be scattered and unfocused in our daily life. I mean between work obligations, family responsibilities and church activities most of us need a personal assistant just to keep us moving to the next appointment!

I want to encourage you to make a commitment: This summer I am going to focus on a few things! I'm going to eliminate the non-essentials and concentrate on a few things that really matter.

That's what I mean by "Focus." Today I want to Focus on the Spirit-filled Life.

Here are Five Keys to the Spirit-filled Life

1. Recognize your need to be filled with the Holy Spirit - If Jesus needed to be filled with the Spirit to fulfill his assignment, then how much more do we need to be filled! See Acts 10:38.
2. Be filled with the Holy Spirit continually - The truth is, we tend to leak! We need to "continually" be filled with the Spirit. The Greek language in Eph 5:18 literally say, "ever be filled with the Spirit." Yesterday's filling is not enough for me today.
3. Ask to be filled - This is so simple we tend to miss it! See Luke 11:13. God "wants" to give us more of his Spirit, we just forget or neglect to ask.
4. Look for opportunities to demonstrate the power of the Spirit - Why be filled if you're not going to walk in and demonstrate it? See 1 Cor 2:3-5. Paul saw problems as opportunities to demonstrate God's power!
5. There is a result of your choice between the flesh and the Spirit - There is a war between the flesh and the Spirit. Question: Which one will win today? Answer: The one you feed the most today! See Romans 8:5-6.

I hope this helps. We will continue this journey in the next blog entry!

Blessings,
Pastor J

Just for Today!

Current mood: Expectant!
Category: Life

Just for Today!

I don't know about you, but it's easy to get overwhelmed in life. Between overloaded schedules, workloads, family responsibilities, church life, friendships and not to mention the unplanned crises of life... whew, I can get overwhelmed very quickly!

So how do we deal with these attacks on our peace of mind? How do we live life on purpose and find meaning in our overcrowded lives? John Maxwell has a great take on this topic in his book, "Today Matters." He has developed what he calls "The Daily Dozen." It's a creed for living... it's living intentionally... because if you don't choose to "Do Life" then life will "Do You!"

Here are the first of 6 of the Daily Dozen!

How to Maximize the Moment: Just for Today...

1. ...I will choose and display the right attitudes - Today's ATTITUDE give me possibilities. See Mark 9:23.
2. ...I will determine and act on right priorities - Today's PRIORITIES give me focus. See Joshua 1:7.
3. ...I will know and follow healthy guidelines - Today's HEALTH gives me strength. See 1 Cor 6:19-20.
4. ...I will communicate with and care for my family - Today's FAMILY give me stability. See 1 Tim 5:8.
5. ...I will practice and develop good thinking - Today's THINKING gives me an advantage. See Joshua 1:8.
6. ...I will make and keep proper commitments - Today's COMMITMENT gives me tenacity. See Matt 6:33.

The great coach John Wooden often said, "Make each day your masterpiece." You see, what you do with the details of today will make the biggest difference tomorrow. You are sowing seeds today for a great harvest tomorrow.

Next week we will pick up and examine the rest of the "Daily Dozen" maxims for living. I have been reading, meditating and praying over these every day and they are having a tremendous impact on my attitude throughout each day. I hope you are blessed, encouraged and inspired by these as well.

Expecting God's Best for You!
Pastor J

The Word on Unbelief!

Current mood: Full of Faith!
Category: Life

Faith is the key element of walking in victory as a believer in Jesus. It is what undergirds and supports everything we believe and all that we do as sons and daughters of God. There is an enemy that threatens your success, your usefulness and your victory in Christ... it is the enemy of "Unbelief."

Here is the definition of "Unbelief" - Unfaithfulness, disobedience, lack of confidence and conviction. In the Amplified Bible, unbelief is the unwillingness to adhere to and trust in and rely on God.

In Heb 3:19 we read, "So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief." In other words, the children of God that were in the wilderness with Moses were kept out of their destiny and their promised land because of unbelief.

Now, if unbelief caused a generation of God's people to be destroyed and miss their opportunity to receive God's promises, then what does that say to us, when we walk in unbelief (unwillingness to adhere to, trust in and rely on God.)?

Unraveling Unbelief

1. Become a Word Glutton! - There are seasons of "necessary imbalance." This is a time when you step over the line and dive in to God's Word. Perhaps you need to put down some other books (they may be great books) for a season and immerse yourself into God's Word.

Rom 10:17 So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

2. Listen to Word/Faith Teaching! - When I'm up against a mountain that challenges my faith I go back to my roots of word/faith teachers like Kenneth Copeland, Creflo Dollar, Jerry Savelle and Duane Sheriff. It may be "Old School" and even cliched but something happens on the inside of me when I listen to these great faith teachers! It stirs up my faith and belief!

1 Cor 1:21 "...it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe."

3. Filter All Outside Input! - When I was a youth minister, I often told our young people "Garbage In Garbage Out!" In other words, whatever you put in is what you're going to get out. You may need to be more selective about what you are listening to, watching and embracing with your heart.

Ps 101:3 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.

The enemy of unbelief will keep you from walking in confidence, faith, boldness and courage. It will hinder your ability to see the activity of God. It will allow the Enemy to have free reign in your business.

My desire for you is to win in life! You can do it! Don't allow unbelief to hinder your growth and progress. You're stronger than you think you are!

Blessings,
Pastor J

Today Matters!

Current mood: Inspired
Category: Life

Bloom Where You're Planted, Because Today Matters!

It's amazing to me how many people live chained to yesterday and in great fear of tomorrow, when the truth is you only have TODAY. I want to remind you that all you have to manage and work with is TODAY... not yesterday, not tomorrow. I know people who are paralyzed by anxiety and fear over tomorrow.

I want to share some insights with you today on how to bloom where you're planted, because Today Matters!

1. Let Go of Yesterday - most people cannot "live well" today because they are still chained to yesterday. Our past successes and failures often look bigger to us in hindsight than they really were. Yesterday ended last night! See Is 43:18-19. God is doing a new thing today!

2. Don't Worry about Tomorrow... Plan for it! - many live with anxiety over that which has not even happened! Fear is negative faith. Don't have a lottery mind-set about tomorrow, "Well, I just think it's going to get better." Why? It will ony get better tomorrow because you have sown for a harvest today! See Phil 4:6-8. "...think on these things."

3. Live Well Today - Today. This moment. NOW. It is God's gift to me and it is all that I have. If I live this day well for the glory of God, not worrying about tomorrow or living bound to yesterday, then I will have sown the seeds of a life well lived today. See Matt 6:33-34 "But seek first the Kingdom of God..."

Here is an excerpt from Dale Witherington entitled The Lifebuilder's Creed:

"Today is what God has entrusted to me. It is all that I have. I will do my best in it. I will demonstrate the best of me in it - my character, giftedness, and abilities - to my family and friends, clients and associates. I will identify those things that are most important to do Today, and those things I will do until they are done. And when this day is done I will look back with satisfaction at that which I have accomplished. Then, and only then, will I plan my tomorrow, looking to improve upon Today, with God's help. Then shall I go to sleep in peace... content."

May this both bless and encourge you to make the most of Today!

Blessings,
Pastor J

On a Mission!

Current mood: Inspired!
Category: Life

I'm writing from a motel in South Texas just across the border from Mexico. I just spent the last two days in Mexico visiting families and children in the dump grounds... yes, literally in the city dumps!

Why am I here? I'm on a mission to change the way the Mexican government views caring for their hurting and abused children. Many are forsaken and forgotten. To be truthful, we don't like to hear about this in America. It's disturbing and it compels us to want to "do" something about it.

My heart is wrenched, my spirit is broken and yet it is nothing compared to what these precious people will experience in the time it takes for me to write this blog.

I'm asking for one thing from you... To simply pray. Pray that me and my staff will tap into the wisdom of God for strategies to connect with key people in the Mexican Government and the DIF (Mexico's Child Protective Services). Pray that God's timing and resources will be released in due season.

Thanks for reading this and thanks for your prayers... "With God all things are possible!"

Blessings and Love,
Pastor J

Take the Lead and Deposit a Seed - Adding Value to Others!

Current mood: determined
Category: Life

Making Deposits by Adding Value to Others

Here's a factoid: 80 % our waking life will be lived outside of your home... that's the "marketplace" (i.e. grocery store, office, school, job site, etc.). Of 132 public appearances that Jesus made, 122 were in the marketplace...that's right, not church.

Listen, I'm "Pro-Church" as it relates to equipping the saints to "do something" i.e. the work of ministry. However, that's on Wed's and Sun's, the rest of our lives are lived out in the marketplace... you know, where people really live.

In Romans 12:10, Paul states, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." NIV

A marketplace term coined by John Maxwell for this principle is "Adding Value." We are to "Take the lead and deposit a seed" by "adding value" to everyone we meet.

Here are some steps to Adding Value to others:

1. Value People - Every person is a soul for whom Christ died and has intrinsic value because they were created in the "Imago De" (image of God). They have value because God values them, not because we assign them a particular value. (see Rm 12:10)

2. Know and relate to what they value - To do this you must be willing to become what Tim Sanders calls a "deep and powerless" listener. We must learn to value what others value. (see Mk 12:29-31)

3. Make yourself more valuable - You increase your value by valuing others over yourself. Help others to succeed and prosper and you will add value to yourself. Don't keep what you're learning to yourself, share resources, skills and insights with others to help them along. (see Gal 5:13-14)

4. Do the things that God values - Honor authority (oh yeah, you're boss!) bear the burdens and carry the armor of those around you. Serve them selflessly. (see Gal 6:2)

Success is when I add value to myself. Significance is when I add value to others. Whatever seeds you sow into the lives of others will come back to you in a harvest. You can't lose! It's a win-win deal!

Toolbox: Here's a couple of good resources I would recommend if you want to learn how to integrate your faith in the workplace by "leaking out not freaking out."

1. The 360 Degree Leader by John C. Maxwell
2. Website: www.lifeatwork.com

Blessings to each of you as we learn how to take our Faith outside of our churches and truly become influencers and catalysts in our world!

Blessings,
Pastor J

PS If you're interested in hearing this message as taught at my church then check out our website at www.morningstarabilene.com and click on "listen to messages." It should be up by Tues the 16th

The Power of Connection

The Power of Connection
Current mood: rejuvenated
Category: Life

It's so easy to just cruise through life disconnected and doing your own thing. As for me... I need to be "connected" with the right things and the right people. I work hard at connecting with key people who can draw me up to the next level professionally, personally and spiritually.

It's like the old saying goes... if you want to learn to be an eagle, then start hanging with eagles... however, if you want to be a turkey, then stay on the ground with the turkeys. It's your choice... turkey or eagle?

Who are you connected to that brings out the best in you? What cause, church or movement are you connected to that draws out the leader and visionary in you? It's critical that you "connect" with that which brings out the greatness God has placed in you.

Staying Connected,
Pastor J

Leak Out Don't Freak Out!

Leak Out Don't Freak Out!
Category: Life

Have you ever met anyone on the job, at the office or on the campus that acted like the "Evangelism Linebacker?" You know the type... they feel "called of God" to bust you up with the Gospel in order to "witness" for Jesus.

Today's "Phrase that Pays" is: Leak Out Don't Freak Out!

Here are some "Marketplace Facts:"

-Of Jesus' 132 public appearances, 122 were in the marketplace.
-Of 52 parables Jesus told, 45 had a workplace context.
-Of 40 divine interventions recorded in Acts, 39 were in the marketplace.
-Jesus called 12 workplace individuals, not clergy, to build His church.

It's so tempting to wear our Christian T-shirts to work... you know the one that says, "Lord's Gym" on it! Or the 1997 4 Him concert tour t-shirt. Here's my deal, if you're going to dress the part, then BE the part. If you're going to wear the What Would Jesus Do bracelet, then perhaps you should Do What Jesus Did!

Okay... I'm off the soapbox for now...

Here are some tips on How To "Leak Your Faith" in the Marketplace:

1. Fill Up When You Get Up! - sharing your faith is 90% preparation and 10 persperation. You should start your day in God's Word and spend some time saying what God says about you. Whatever you're full of you will leak out onto others... good or bad.
2. Pray this Prayer - "Father, how can I "Add Value" to everyone I meet today? Adding Value to another's life is what Jesus called us to do. To encourage, to build up, to exhort and to edify.
3. Live Your Life on Purpose - be quick to Repent, quick to Forgive and quick to Love.

I hope this helps as we seek to "lead" people to Jesus and not "drag" them kicking and screaming. I say, "No more Evangelism Linebackers!"

To hear this message on mp3, go to www.morningstarabilene.com, scroll down and then click on "Listen" at the bottom of the page. It should by up sometime on Monday the 8th.

Blessings,
Pastor J

Busy but Blessed!

Busy but Blessed!
Current mood: full
Category: Life

Have you ever heard the saying, "I'm meeting myself coming and going!" Yeah, that's me lately... but it's all been for the best reasons. We sometimes go through "Seasons of Necessary Imbalance."

It's when the calendar lines up and converges on you. It's like "the perfect storm." You didn't intentionally plan it that way... Life just happens that way. At least it's for the best reasons i.e. Advancing the Kingdom!

I participated in the National Day of Prayer service in our communty yesterday... it was very encouraging! Our mayor opened the service and really set the tone for the whole event. It's good knowing your mayor is a strong follower of Jesus!

Today, I will be attending a John Maxwell seminar on 360 degree leadership. It's learning how to lead from the middle of an organization. I've been reading the book and it's amazing! I will definitely be lacing my messages and teachings with these principles.

I tried to mow my lawn (or should I say weed patch!) last night. I only got stuck once! We've had so much rain that the ground was really soft... but like a good neighbor Wesley was there and I was up and running in no time.

I know I usually do some kind of lesson or teaching, but I just felt like rambling this morning. The loves of my life are still sleeping but I'm off to the shower... have an amazing day and always keep seeking the Son and reflecting His Glory!

Blessings,
Pastor J

Oh God, it's Monday!

You made the decision to get up early enough to spend a little time with God. You attended church on Sunday and are filled up with His Word and His Spirit... now it's Monday morning and you are beginning to feel the stirrings of dread and anxiety. Sound familiar?

We tend to say, "Thank God it's Friday... Oh God it's Monday!" I have learned to declare "T.G.I.M!" Thank God it's Monday! Oh yeah, sometimes it's a real faith deal! However, my words set the tone for my day and even my week. Our words really are "power containers."

It's easy to spend time with God in the house or in the church, but we still have to "re-enter" the culture i.e. work, the marketplace, etc. We can't stay on the mountain, we have to come down to where we all live day by day.

Jesus, don't leave home without him. As your heading out the door tanked up on coffee and running just a little too late, don't forget to take Jesus into your world. Here are a couple of hints as you hit the ground running:

1. Say What God Says About You! - speaking God's word over your day really prepares you to meet Monday morning head on. Deut 28:1-14 is a good starting place. Here's a snippet: "I am blessed coming in and blessed going out. I'm blessed in the city and I'm blessed in the country. I am the head and not the tail, I am above only and not beneath!" That's just a sampling! Man, that gets me going just writing it out! Talk about prepared to meet the day head on!

2. Hold Your Head Up! - Know that God is with you and is blessing the work of your hands! He has put a "Favor Shield" around you! Think of it this way. There is a "F.O.G. (Favor Of God)" around you! Whomever you encounter comes into your "F.O.G" before you even get there!

Now, you are armed and dangerous! Promotion is on your life because you are saying what God says and walking in confidence! Now, let's say this all together now, "Thank God it's Monday!"

Blessings,
Pastor J

Good Morning God!

Growing up I was always told that breakfast was the most important meal of the day. That it was critical to get a good start in order to set the tone for the day.

It's the same way spiritually. Every morning when I wake up I simply say, "Good morning Lord." I want the first words out of my mouth to be uttered in recognition that Jesus is the Lord of my life.

I know it sounds simple and petty, but I have to tell you it has made such a difference in setting the "Tone" for my day.

Here's the "Phrase that Pays:" How you start determines how you finish!

How do you start your day? CNN, ESPN, MSNBC, MySpace? I want to challenge and encourage you to begin your day by simply saying, "Good morning Lord."

Set the tone and watch God work on your behalf. Jump into his Word (a good place to start is to read one chapter of Proverbs a day through the month, there are 31 chapters... very practical!) When you do this you are "Framing" your day for success.

Blessings,
Pastor J

Neglect

It's so easy to get going in life and just plain forget about the basics of experiencing God everyday. You look up and the day is half gone and you haven't even breathed a prayer, worshipped or simply given thanks to the One who loves you more than you love yourself.

Basic Training is simply going back to your "first love." You know, when you first came to know Jesus and you were excited about your faith. It's getting back to spending time in His Word. It's believing for big things from God. It's worshipping with reckless abandon.

I am convinced that the Enemy's greatest strategy is not "gross sin." No, I believe it's "neglect." If you neglect to eat, you starve. If you neglect to breathe, you suffocate. If you neglect to drink, you dehydrate. If you neglect the basics of your faith i.e. prayer, worship, thankgiving, faith, etc., then you begin to die a slow and almost unnoticed death.

If I don't fill my car up with gas, then I get stranded. I can't get mad at the manufacturer! It's not Chevy's fault that I "neglected" to fill 'er up! It's my fault, because I neglected to follow the manufacturers instructions.

Today, don't neglect the basics of your faith... go back to basics and fill 'er up!

Have an Amazing Day,
Pastor J

This Post May Not be "PC!"

"God's Way or No Way."

This was my take away in the Easter message that I brought at MSCC in Abilene. It may sound harsh at first, but it is the truth spoken in love.

We live in a culture that wants God on their terms. They want to feel comforted when there is tragedy. They want help when they run out of money. They want to feel good when they are at the bottom of the barrel in life. They want to know God is there when life deals them a difficult blow.

But, most people do not want to change. It's like we want "something" for "nothing." We want all that God has to offer, but we are not willing to come to Him on His terms.

Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Madonna, Oprah and Whitney Houston are just a few celebrities who have made it "hip" to be religious. Oh, never mind what "flavor" you choose, just do what works for YOU.

If that was the Truth, then this thing would be easy and we could all just "choose our path." However, the Bible is clear that the road is "narrow" and there are "few" that find it.

My question for you today is: Have you found "His" road? I don't mean what works for YOU, I mean what pleases God? Remember, you are not your own, you have been bought with a price. That price was the life and blood of the Savior, Jesus.

Come to Him on His terms... it will be life giving and life transforming! You will find the peace you are looking for. Joy will be yours! You will have the "abundant life" Jesus spoke of in John 10:10!

My heart goes out to all of you who are hurting, confused, and feeling lost. You need a Savior. Choose Him and you are choosing life!

Making a Big D out of God,
Pastor J