tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61567997081882031102024-02-19T04:45:28.885-06:00Life in IowaAnd Devotional Timesmikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.comBlogger431125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-5706084028572995012011-03-13T01:25:00.004-06:002011-03-13T01:48:35.554-06:00Tijuana UpdateOur plane tickets have been purchased for our flight to Sandiego this spring but yet feels so far away still. Time has been moving right along though. Suzy and I have had $400.00 come in so far to cover the $600.oo for the plane tickets. What a blessing, Praise God!<br /><br />Where many seem so supportive we've gotten a lot of bad feed back. People trying to talk us out of going, telling us horror stories and such. People sending us letters and clippings of news events trying to detour us and telling us they won't support us. I understand many of those only have a healthy concern. I don't expect anything less from a people who just sit around and watch CNN or 20/20. Fear keeps people locked up. We're choosing to walk in faith. But as I look around I see many other Christians walking in fear as well. This concerns me and makes me wonder if this is normal or is satan working overtime lately.<br /><br />Frankly I don't give a hoot what the devil schemes up because I know my God is bigger. God has a set standard above anything the devil can throw against me and I trust God's Word. His Word sets me free and that is where He wants me. Jesus came so that I could have life and have it more abundantly. That's how I plan on living it.<br /><br />On a side note we still need to raise at least another $600.oo come May. We have a few plans in store and in action. We will have a rummage sale in April and Suzy has signed up to where this apron in church which says 'Here Am I Lord, Send Me'. Throughout the service people will put their loose change or bills in it and all the proceeds will go towards sending Suzy on the trip. With the rise in gas we will more than likely need a few extra bucks. We except prayer and cash and if you feel the urge to send us some moola I can guarantee all will go towards this missions trip. Message me if you need an address.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-53078474884344829672011-02-20T23:04:00.003-06:002011-02-20T23:21:51.872-06:00Human Nature Doubts<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Feb. 17th (Matt. 28:17)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />Isn't that just like our human nature. We can witness God's goodness-blessing after blessing-watch His words come to pass and still later doubt. When man came into this world he was innocent. Later falling into sin and living in the fallen state if you will. God sent His only son Jesus to die on the cross and redeem us with His blood. Now to be in the redeemed state. But sadly we still carry over the sinful nature which wages war with the Spirit (Romans 8:7). Jesus over came the sinful nature because we couldn't and He paid our price. We still are prone to doubt in our minds because of this human nature. When we come to the reality of who we are as people, sinful and in need of salvation, we then can turn to Jesus who gave it all and be filled with His Spirit.(Romans 8:9 You however are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.<br /><br />Father, Help me not to doubt and live according to the Spirit that lives in me. I want to live, Lord. Help me to put off the sinful nature.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-86519096520322205362011-02-20T22:47:00.003-06:002011-02-20T23:03:56.003-06:00Being Mocked<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Feb. 15th (Matt. 27:29)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />Jesus Himself was mocked for calling himself the Son of God and King. They made fun of Him, spit on him, hit him, hurled insults at him, used his own words against him and etc. In the same way we too will be mocked and insulted because of his name. Our beliefs will be thrown in our faces and we will be made fun of. If we are vocal in what we believe-if we are acting out what we believe you can be certain that you will be mocked and made fun of. Jesus said that we should remember that the world hated him first. If we carry the name of Jesus with us in life we are targets.<br /><br />Always remembering Who's battle it is will help us persevere through mocking. I always think I must be doing something right when people tease. Pray for those who do you wrong as Jesus did at the cross. They know not what they do. Also recall how blessed you are. Matt 5:10-Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness. The world thinks there is no gain by doing good or right, but we like vs. 10 says, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-42367259244631208792011-01-28T21:55:00.002-06:002011-01-28T22:13:16.916-06:00Busy Body<span style="font-size:130%;">Jan 27th (Exodus 18:18)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br />Even as far back as in Moses' time we see what can happen when we get too involved in our ministry. There is a time to admit we need help. We need a break, the work is too heavy. Moses was headed in a downward spiral and was wearing himself out. We will never be fully charged or capable to fulfil our own calling if we try to do everything ourselves.<br /><br />Learn to lean on others and their talents. Often I think I have to do it all myself so it gets done right but that's not the case. Pick your help carefully and spread the work load out evenly. Like Moses I should take the advise when it comes and admit I need help.<br /><br />Father, Help me serve accurately and efficiently, not taking on too much. May I know my limits and listen to others around me.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-75932647456060602532011-01-28T21:41:00.002-06:002011-01-28T21:55:01.961-06:00Impure Motives<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Jan 26th (Matt. 17:23) </span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />I think possibly the disciples were grieved by impure motives. They thought Jesus was the messiah that was coming to set up an earthly kingdom to reign. If they had their minds set on the things above they would have heard Jesus' message more clearly and been filled with joy that He would raise to life again in three days. Having the wrong mindset will cause us to miss the true picture, the real blessing.<br /><br />We must always be checking our motives. Testing our hearts. By faithful discipline of studying God's Word we can keep ourselves in check. Taking the time for God's Word and revelations to sink into our hearts and change us will help keep our motives pure.<br /><br />Lord, when you speak, I will listen. I want your word to change me. To grip my very heart. Through my changed heart may I impact others as a rippling effect.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-3963892287035240612011-01-28T21:31:00.003-06:002011-01-28T21:41:41.224-06:00Evil Heart Deceitful Lips<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Jan 23rd (Matt. 15:11)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />In verse 18 Jesus says the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart. Verse 19 says for out of the heart come evil thoughts. Man's heart is evil and needs cleansing. The only way we can put our hearts in check is lining up our thoughts and motives with God's Word. 1 Peter 3:9 says, Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing. vs 10 "whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech." We must purify our hearts before the Lord. Guarding our tongues is essential to the Christian life but guarding our hearts is even more essential since the things that come from his mouth come from his heart.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-69861910816668134502011-01-17T19:44:00.004-06:002011-01-17T19:55:07.307-06:00Feed The Poor<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Jan 16th (Matt. 11:5)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />Often times we think of the poor as one without a nickel. But in reality the poor is the one without hope. Without the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ we are poor in spirit. The Bible mentions a lot about meeting the needs of the poor. Our first thoughts go to starving children, homeless, orphans and others who are financially strained.<br /><br />What about the abundance of wealthy people in towns all over America or anywhere else on this planet but are spiritually malnourished. We often skip over someone who seems to have it all together. They have a big house, nice car, boat, toys, family and friends or whatever the equation but they are poor in spirit. Like Jesus did, lets give the good news to the poor. No matter their situation.<br /><br /><em>(prayer) Lord, open my eyes to see the poor that are in need. I do believe we should help those less fortunate but I don't want to overlook those who look ok on the outside yet are starving on the inside. Amen.</em>mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-81880404213052153832011-01-16T14:47:00.003-06:002011-01-16T15:21:29.220-06:00Tijuana, Mexico Trip 2011Today my wife, Suzy, and I signed on the dotted line saying that we are on board for a missions trip to Tijuana, Mexico. We will be spending our time building a house for a family in need. This will be a first time for both Suzy and I to venture on a missions trip. Our journey begins on May 25th when we fly into Sandiego, California. Another first on our list is eating at the In and Out Burger before crossing the border which I am super stoked about. Of course I've never been to California either and will wish I could stay longer I'm sure. Also I believe we will take some time to visit the ocean which this deprived boy has yet to see. Oh-ya, and I've never flown before so I guess I will be getting a bunch of never done befores off my list. We plan on building the small two story house in 4 or 5 days. We will venture home June 1st.<br /><br />God is really speaking to His people at this time about giving more of themselves and what they have. I've been evaluating what is on my plate of life and discovering that there is so much that can be done away with. When we free up time and resources we can bless God's Kingdom like nothing else before bringing God Glory. People need to be fed, sheltered and above all else need to hear the gospel. We can all do a part in this world and help many suffering souls.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-57028431471607125302011-01-10T20:11:00.004-06:002011-01-10T20:27:49.083-06:00Surpassing Faith<em><span style="font-size:130%;">(Matt. 8:8-9)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />The faith of the centurion surpassed anything that Jesus had seen in all Israel. The centurion understood the authority position of Jesus. In verse 9 he states that he himself is also a man under authority and he also has men under his authority. When he tells someone to do something, they do it (Emphasis added). Thus he believed that through the authority of Jesus' words it would be done without Jesus actually coming to his home.<br /><br />I know (I have the faith knowing) if I get caught breaking the law by those in authority over me, I will be punished. How much more valid are Jesus' words Whom has authority over all? How we like the rest of Israel are weak in our faith. Do we completely rely on the authority of Christ? all authority has been given to Him from the Father. Jesus said ask anything in my name and it will be done. I must trust that what Jesus says is valid for me today. How will I trust Jesus' words today to grow in my faith?mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-56421587310020774582011-01-10T19:59:00.003-06:002011-01-10T20:10:17.136-06:00Real Confirmation<em>Jan. 9th (Gen. 24:15,45)</em><br /><em></em><br />(45) "Before I finished praying in my heart, Rebekah came out, with her jar on her shoulder...."<br /><br />Abraham's servant honored him (Abraham) by the oath he made by praying for confirmation....he didn't choose a wife by presumption or guess or by picking the skinniest or most beautiful girl. He allowed God's leading by and through prayer. God honored Abraham and his servant by following through with his word and answering the servants prayer immediately. Even before he had finished praying God was at work.<br /><br />When we honor God like Abraham did by not letting his servant choose a wife from the Canaanites or letting Isaac go back to their former land because of God's future promise, and when we honor God through seeking Him first in prayer and looking for His confirmation in our decisions, God in turn will hear us and honor us with his guidance and answers to prayer.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-33440916276954831562011-01-10T19:50:00.003-06:002011-01-10T19:59:44.867-06:00Speak Truth In Trust<em><span style="font-size:130%;">Jan. 8th (Gen. 20:10,11)</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />...And Abimelech asked, "Abraham, what was your reason for doing this?"...Abraham replied, " I said to myself, 'There is surely no fear of God in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife.'"<br /><br />Abraham lied or gave a half truth in telling Abimelech that his wife was his sister out of fear of death. Fear drove Abraham to this low point, instead of using his faith like he did through his attempt to sacrifice Isaac. (Gen. 22:1-12)<br /><br />When tested how will I respond? In any case I should be completely trusting God. God will provide. Whether it's in protection, finances, or anything for that matter (Gen. 22:8). May my worshipful fear of God control my decisions rather that fear itself.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-65421735473916840992011-01-03T17:35:00.007-06:002011-01-03T18:36:38.115-06:00Rearview AccomplishmentsSo it's the beginning to a new year once more. I was thinking of some accomplishments I made over the past year and decided to share them here. Close to the beginning of the year I was engaged to this beautiful woman of God named Suzy. She has a passion for life. To serve Jesus like none other and of course to serve others. Her love for people still surprises me sometimes.<br /><br /><div align="center">SUZY AND MIKE WITH THEIR FIRST WEDDING GIFT.</div><div align="center">ENGAGED JUNE 19TH 2010<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivu1XiVbXnt7soKrBF6TsHXhNKQNxql2wY89__nT3ArVQp0sna96ZjOWFreGoqoGTaVkjrobnZ0MKg98C2w8VHL_RL1-DbVkpPiXZlgoDMuzbAjOA2JLIL-K4zE8cS6n8dGEOqJ53nwtYK/s1600/035.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558116914516539986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 359px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivu1XiVbXnt7soKrBF6TsHXhNKQNxql2wY89__nT3ArVQp0sna96ZjOWFreGoqoGTaVkjrobnZ0MKg98C2w8VHL_RL1-DbVkpPiXZlgoDMuzbAjOA2JLIL-K4zE8cS6n8dGEOqJ53nwtYK/s400/035.JPG" border="0" /></a> Then come September we were married. Something I didn't think would ever happen. I'm still in awe that she even takes an interest in me and said yes above that.<br /></div><div align="center">MARRIED SEPTEMBER 25TH 2010<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00jykktOmcw4tcmdMADomFvJZvtZcCy0o-Gl-9s4Vj4Yj601adsrSWZbzoi7alqzBJgGCBXpsIVH7Wnrc4X2peQY4xv8YB1y-Y8ZDIdtR2qInjdr729pbdGv9a1ON1DRYpGiuN8ZQkrLJ/s1600/IMG_3317.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558114636989172466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00jykktOmcw4tcmdMADomFvJZvtZcCy0o-Gl-9s4Vj4Yj601adsrSWZbzoi7alqzBJgGCBXpsIVH7Wnrc4X2peQY4xv8YB1y-Y8ZDIdtR2qInjdr729pbdGv9a1ON1DRYpGiuN8ZQkrLJ/s400/IMG_3317.JPG" border="0" /></a> I also shot my first deer of my life. That was an experience. Not the big trophy buck I was dreaming about but this doe will do just fine in my belly. I am keeping her pelt with hair on as reminder of my very first deer.<br />MIKE'S FIRST DEER DECEMBER 22ND 2010</div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OfsCa5gBxHj74rZtzwp32CxzyEH3xeUkP6CsKnhyphenhyphenJxf_rBnxIPsIrJB5Xc_qWUtMGjtXe1g0hHTvKiAdGOSz08T1QSfKd4wtg8snw9ohcI4V_XTvDpjf38-PDzE6pHzySUXVcPK5HxN1/s1600/033.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558110140347402034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OfsCa5gBxHj74rZtzwp32CxzyEH3xeUkP6CsKnhyphenhyphenJxf_rBnxIPsIrJB5Xc_qWUtMGjtXe1g0hHTvKiAdGOSz08T1QSfKd4wtg8snw9ohcI4V_XTvDpjf38-PDzE6pHzySUXVcPK5HxN1/s400/033.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgKyf_vVMhgj4wf6yaA_vRFjE7SJ55EdHJGqF6WYy7a6Bm-gR4D2rca8K0u3XRgot0IXuMdi_KfcnElQ2_KEEwhqYcMmW3YirmmOaBnng0CUS9VDKokdFY2N4R9Tce6MT1FLVqpJanm8k/s1600/035.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558109487554690530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgKyf_vVMhgj4wf6yaA_vRFjE7SJ55EdHJGqF6WYy7a6Bm-gR4D2rca8K0u3XRgot0IXuMdi_KfcnElQ2_KEEwhqYcMmW3YirmmOaBnng0CUS9VDKokdFY2N4R9Tce6MT1FLVqpJanm8k/s400/035.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPiKumtVMeA8RU_yRu7qcgEiI_eiA-x0G7oS-eS9c_ZiEM24gC9Lc5ZhHQD-q1TFIDeoTJP48ZJqb_pUMoQK6MfGDR9xM-m-t3QQt6kPhEXAx4M7Nz78RwE5B8GuWcvWqsIP2Wg1MpZ9Do/s1600/039.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558109059006091378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPiKumtVMeA8RU_yRu7qcgEiI_eiA-x0G7oS-eS9c_ZiEM24gC9Lc5ZhHQD-q1TFIDeoTJP48ZJqb_pUMoQK6MfGDR9xM-m-t3QQt6kPhEXAx4M7Nz78RwE5B8GuWcvWqsIP2Wg1MpZ9Do/s400/039.JPG" border="0" /></a> A couple more accomplishments last year would be: my joining of the Adult Teacher Team in our church. I've stepped out and put together a few sermons and taught on a couple of Wednesday nights so far. It's exciting when you start to be filled with so many ideas. God has been keeping me busy. Another accomplishment I would say is the building of a new relationship with my dad. New Years Eve night we had our first telephone conversation. It went well and I'm excited to meet him soon. I hope and pray 2011 will hold many more accomplishments and victory's for Suzy and I both.</div><br /></div>mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-37400349167649474062010-12-17T20:56:00.002-06:002010-12-17T22:26:22.025-06:00Subject To ChangeMy how time slips away. So many things, so many changes. Where to begin. I've begun corresponding with my dad for the first time ever. We've exchanged a few letters back and forth and it's been <span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffff00">cool</span> getting to know each other this way. We plan on meeting in person come February. I'm excited and nervous at the same time. It already seems we have so much in common.<br /><br />This coming Monday is opening deer season for Late Muzzle loader. I will be going deer hunting for my first time. Again I'm excited and nervous at the same time. If I fill my tag you can count on me posting pictures. Unless the deer still has spots...LOL!!<br /><br />Suzy and I are really excited about this being our first Christmas together as a married couple. We are already thinking of ways to keep Jesus centered in our family and start some new traditions that we can call our own. We feel this will be important and foundational when we have kids.<br /><br />Suzy started 3rd shift recently and this makes for an entirely new schedule to get used to. I think this is a blessing though. We were gearing up to facilitate The Truth Project from our home and were finding it hard to come up with days and times that would be compatible with our schedules. Definitely looking forward to having this small group hosted at our house.<br /><br />The New Year is around the corner and Suzy and I have decided to change up the way we do our devotional time. I think we will be doing a personal blog devotion. A lot like the life groups that many churches are doing these days, we will read through the Bible in one year and blog daily on our observances, applications, and prayers. We will then share with each other our own Spirit lead session to see what we are hearing from God. We got these really cool devotional journals with the Bible in a year reading plan and place to journal every day along with other short daily devotions which I personally love doing right when I wake up in the morning with a cup of coffee. We might decide to make the journals public but I'm not for sure yet. So this blog might be up for change if I don't make a new one.<br /><br />Our Adult Ministry group is going well. I taught a lesson back on November 17. It was titled, Enjoying The Winning Life. I thought I did well for the most part but most importantly I preached God's Word and I felt it was a timely message. Unfortunately the reaction I got from the audience made me wonder otherwise. But the next week I was complimented by an experienced woman of the faith. She thought my lesson was good and well studied. I guess I went through what many leaders or pastors go through from time to time. You think you have a dynamite message and it seems to go over every ones head. I'm trying not to be hard on myself and take this as a learning opportunity. I think I feel God dropping another message in my heart. Funny thing is that each message I've preached seems to run together some how. I feel so strong about teaching about spiritual warfare in a new way and showing people things they may have never seen before in God's Word. I only hope that this will spark a passion in them for a self feeding system of their own. God's Word has so much nutritional value that nothing can take its place spiritually.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-39352894775133072262010-10-21T18:57:00.003-05:002010-10-21T19:21:14.950-05:00My Grieved HeartMy heart is grieved. Grieved to the point of breaking. My beautiful wife and I had the privilege of sitting in on Youth Group last night. Something I was looking forward to. What I witnessed was several young youth that were so disrespectful, not just to the Youth Pastor and the church property but also to the Lord and His Word. It hit Suzy and I pretty hard and we both were broken last night. My first thought (after pushing the thought of beating their heads together out of my head) was that these kids are just like I was around that age. And that's not a good thing.<br /><br />I know they have bad role models at home. People who constantly let them down. An unbalanced family and I'm sure many other problems. But what can I do but love them and just be there? I try and think of what would have helped me back then. With a bad attitude and not caring for the things of God. Do I say something to them about their lack of respect? God's giving me a heart for the lost. And it hurts. I can only imagine how painful it is for God to see so many people He loves so dearly walk by in life so aimlessly. They have the answer right in front of them but they choose to mock and reject Jesus right to His face.<br /><br />I need feedback on how to discipline properly in Youth Group. I need advise on how to lead such young people. Like me, I pray they turn back to the Lord. I know prayer had a lot to do with my turning back and so I will keep knocking until that door is opened.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-56606751698832283112010-10-19T18:42:00.003-05:002010-10-19T19:14:56.611-05:00An In-Depth Christian Worldview ExperienceSuzy and I a week before our wedding felt a prompting to take on a project. There was a facilitator training seminar for Focus On The Family's <a href="http://thetruthproject.org/">'The Truth Project'</a>. This four hour Leadership Training class has prepared us to lead a small to medium sized small group in what could be the most important tour of anyones life who will participate. The Truth Project is an attempt to engage in the battle for truth. You see, you and I are engaged in a cosmic battle. A battle that is raging for the hearts and minds of people everywhere, pitting the truth claims of God against the lies of the world, the flesh and the devil. It is a battle over what you truly believe.<br /><br />This project is designed to build a systematic and comprehensive biblical framework by studying God's blueprint for all of life. For some time now I have felt God speaking to me about warfare. We are in a war. Dare I say a war of words. Satans words against God's Words which started way back in the Garden of Eden. I see and hear people in the Church today speak lies that totally contradict what the Bible teaches about truth. I want people to start examining their faith to see if what they believe is really real.<br /><br />Suzy and I hope to embark on this adventure together with another couple from our church starting sometime next year. We pray that it will be an encounter with God as we endeavor to gaze upon His face and seek to know Him more deeply. Because it is there, and only there, that we find true transformation-a metamorphosis that will renew your mind and heart and equip you to resist conforming to the world (Romans 12:2).mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-38241061251147208372010-10-15T19:43:00.003-05:002010-10-15T20:01:21.292-05:00A New OpportunityShortly after getting a Facebook account I was contacted by a couple of individuals stating I was their brother. Sure enough it is true. I met one of three siblings from my fathers side for the first time at my wedding. I haven't seen my father since I was a baby. So a new opportunity arises. Who knew Facebook would have started this relationship. A lost relationship that would probably never of happened if I would have kept up my Facebook hate club. I'm not sure yet if this is divine intervention or what have you. I will take this opportunity to build a new relationship with a man I never knew growing up. The sweet thing about it is I can be a great witness for Christ in this relationship and the relationships I will be building with my two new sisters and brother.<br /><br />The other day I received a letter from my father. The first step to getting to know each other. It's kind of scary if you think about it. I'm sure it's scary for him also. He has no idea what kind of person I am or how I might react. He doesn't even know if I will receive him in my life or not. Lucky for him I'm not who I used to be. The old me is dead. I'm a walking dead man that's alive in Christ. So I am mustering up the courage I have to write him back and tell him about myself. Sounds like I will be able to meet him real soon too.<br /><br />God, what are you doing? What are you up to now?!?!mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-63667203040070715762010-10-10T19:43:00.008-05:002010-10-10T20:42:20.526-05:00I Now Pronounce You Mr. And Mrs. Nissen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0utTGO6BqLM06e6QZhHJxRt3GmV2WWfeWYLLhDGQFxGTCSfoQpZdTHsyYOqOa3qEpIVw3jAJcgQd52S4zd-Sng_9pYoMxKu3lg7tn3WgrFW6s01PPAWBpLHHJdrTnQJsQA81ETlomjYh/s1600/IMG_3319.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526595363238009650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0utTGO6BqLM06e6QZhHJxRt3GmV2WWfeWYLLhDGQFxGTCSfoQpZdTHsyYOqOa3qEpIVw3jAJcgQd52S4zd-Sng_9pYoMxKu3lg7tn3WgrFW6s01PPAWBpLHHJdrTnQJsQA81ETlomjYh/s400/IMG_3319.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5acARhz4Aa6t1_56UPOPYYc6_bX6evTNqConIgpxG37IDW0H5q27xiBW_wWzYP15pvE3a_XV-H3QBwNO6PhdSzb_kq4E2cYoDZ-4apnH2WF3_j4HoB2Kss-DjF91es4tGcSFZHor_64o/s1600/IMG_3320.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526593190573218194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5acARhz4Aa6t1_56UPOPYYc6_bX6evTNqConIgpxG37IDW0H5q27xiBW_wWzYP15pvE3a_XV-H3QBwNO6PhdSzb_kq4E2cYoDZ-4apnH2WF3_j4HoB2Kss-DjF91es4tGcSFZHor_64o/s400/IMG_3320.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgHqpM_GvGjYogchGpvbRN9hqZcz4xz1cK7WEhUewFpQrHiCf9Ax1FxvGrIVTfJcAwsjZvZcgQZ37iKOJ9UhfNReIUq8EIdTc0leS1jE1UD_k6vCK5uAMORKeJyeGzuAIM3narLwTVt0y/s1600/IMG_3450.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526590929540166050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgHqpM_GvGjYogchGpvbRN9hqZcz4xz1cK7WEhUewFpQrHiCf9Ax1FxvGrIVTfJcAwsjZvZcgQZ37iKOJ9UhfNReIUq8EIdTc0leS1jE1UD_k6vCK5uAMORKeJyeGzuAIM3narLwTVt0y/s400/IMG_3450.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev5dNFwJUhcu9zC0FJrvN0BQfN7ggUsI7Ddf1faorToi9XEN9_lNk5qiCEXBGPZsp4TkOqEoTo9Z3C0hvCSwxG5VA08llUyY-kIwIW-HO3XEDILNWPJb5cH-k78n9ijlbdtEuF9hvLlyT/s1600/IMG_3443.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526588302198904322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev5dNFwJUhcu9zC0FJrvN0BQfN7ggUsI7Ddf1faorToi9XEN9_lNk5qiCEXBGPZsp4TkOqEoTo9Z3C0hvCSwxG5VA08llUyY-kIwIW-HO3XEDILNWPJb5cH-k78n9ijlbdtEuF9hvLlyT/s400/IMG_3443.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7BoeQzhytFQXb0AiZH3mKV7gR8FqjfhgBPMdDQfzRJbxDNHAQxPGKrPgiu0_2XW1Rpx8b07nMjul87cZYbt6BYVYnPu0gaJBw0WLi4uzHAZvh3Y9NOGdE6nugMTW8ZNzX_msqbzERcyr/s1600/IMG_3429.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526586239840454146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ7BoeQzhytFQXb0AiZH3mKV7gR8FqjfhgBPMdDQfzRJbxDNHAQxPGKrPgiu0_2XW1Rpx8b07nMjul87cZYbt6BYVYnPu0gaJBw0WLi4uzHAZvh3Y9NOGdE6nugMTW8ZNzX_msqbzERcyr/s400/IMG_3429.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxnwvJRi8pvr_gB_gqReYShJE4Ph2EcHLivqO-dX46Rgf0Dn2t5wWwHOSHskFeWY2MpiilqfuhjhjQviZXTEJ_EfdjXrpvL1HKY9W_hyzoFYScx8RD22bZgGE8e-4miH2v4Ag7Lv41Brg/s1600/IMG_3435.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526584349100836146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxnwvJRi8pvr_gB_gqReYShJE4Ph2EcHLivqO-dX46Rgf0Dn2t5wWwHOSHskFeWY2MpiilqfuhjhjQviZXTEJ_EfdjXrpvL1HKY9W_hyzoFYScx8RD22bZgGE8e-4miH2v4Ag7Lv41Brg/s400/IMG_3435.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-71411521357953957812010-10-05T19:32:00.003-05:002010-10-05T19:51:31.208-05:00Finally In ActionFinally, my computer is back to normal. Now I might get some work done without pulling anymore hair out of my head. Since my computer has been on the outs lately here is what's been going on.<br /><br />A little over a week ago I finally got married at the age of 32. To the relief of some family members, yes, I like girls. I can no longer call myself single. We already took our honey moon. Short lived but much needed time away. We spent a few nights at a resort in southern Iowa. Our first couple of hours was interesting to say the least. When we arrived we unpacked right away in a small one room with kitchen, living room and bedroom all in one. The nice thing was the two person whirl pool in the bathroom. But the first hour there the main water line to our whirl pool broke flooding the next room. We were moved out and given another room. But to our delight we were upgraded to a town house. Two bedroom, two bath, living room with two pull out couches and a fire place, patio with a grill, full kitchen, and laundry room for our trouble to be exact. Talk about the favor of God. We hit a few scenic sights during our stay and came home Wednesday.<br /><br />Suzy had to be at the church to lead her Worship Dance team Wednesday night. We had our 2nd Talent Night of the year. Everyone did a great job. Suzy is really doing a knock out job with this Worship Dance.<br /><br />At work we finally went back to normal hours so I don't have to get up at 5 am anymore. Yippeee!!!<br />And now I work on the house.......and of course my marriage.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-82179362350238090062010-09-16T21:09:00.002-05:002010-09-16T21:35:44.007-05:00Thoughts For The WeekI'm running out of time. Time to do everything. Every moment is precious. Every hour is scheduled. My head spins with thoughts, questions and no remedies. It feels like I'm flying by the seat of my pants some days. A few thoughts to close out this hectic week.....<br /><ul><li>What does it mean to be on fire for God?</li><li>What does ones life look like when on fire for God?</li><li>How does it feel when you are on fire for God?</li><li>What does eternity feel like?</li><li>Am I cut out for marriage?</li><li>I better be cause in less than two weeks......the knot will be tied.</li><li>My body feels like its falling apart and I'm only 32.</li><li>My Chiropractor said "you are falling apart" today. I said "I know".</li><li>Why do I believe what the enemy tells me sometimes?</li><li>Is my heart becoming callous?</li><li>Am I spending enough time with God lately?</li><li>Will I die if I work too much overtime?</li><li>Will I die if I keep getting up at 5 am every morning?</li><li>It sure feels like it.</li><li>Is 10 buckets of potatoes enough to last all winter?</li><li>I sure do have a beautiful bride to be.</li><li>What will I preach on in November?</li><li>Will I ever stop thinking of stuff to put on this list?</li><li>I can't wait to shoot my new gun.</li><li>I can't wait to see the chiropractor again next week.</li><li>My house looks like a tornado hit it.</li><li>I think my dog likes Suzy more than me.</li><li>Yep, my dog likes Suzy more than me.</li><li>My computer is a jerk.</li><li>I'm sorry mister computer, keep working please.</li><li>Looking forward to the honey moon.</li><li>Looking forward to some time off of work.</li><li>One more week, I think I can, I think I can. </li><li>I know I can do anything through Christ who strengthens me.</li></ul>mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-31166373773934117722010-08-26T21:44:00.003-05:002010-08-26T22:10:38.234-05:00Starting A New Book Or ThreeI'm looking forward to the end of next month even though I've been getting a lot out of this month and I'm sure to do so in the next. At the end of next month on the 25th I will be married. That is exciting all in itself. Starting a new life with a beautiful woman of God. Along with getting married comes all the preparations, including premarital counseling. We are wrapping up a book by Chuck Swindoll called Strike the Original Match for our counseling sessions. Great book. But for our teacher/preacher meetings we have started not one, not two but soon to be three books. As of now I'm juggling 3 books, my Bible, extra overtime at work (praise God) and my life. Sounds hectic but I love it. For now.<br /><br />For our Wednesday night Bible Studies (And Teacher Meetings) we have been reading Right Thinking in a World Gone Wrong by John MacArthur. Great book looking at making decisions in the gray areas of life where scripture isn't so clear. Each Wednesday night we have a lesson on one chapter. Speaking of Wednesday nights, I gave my message and it went superbly. I had confidence, little nervousness, no fidgeting. I spoke boldly and drove my point home. It was better than anticipated. Now back to the books. Our second book that we were given being told it's a mandatory read is Wayne Cordeiro's Divine Mentor. I've only scratched the surface with this book but I have a good feeling about it. Pastor says he has ordered us another book and it will be a mandatory read right after our wedding. It's called Wild Goose Chase. I can't remember the author. So I'm looking forward to the end of next month where I can focus on my reading more. No more counseling sessions running here and there continuously and so on. Also I'm in the middle of a small bathroom remodel. Hope to be done soon. On a good note I sold my big truck which will help reimburse me for the money I've been spending on wedding stuff. Soooooon the chaos will end, I hope!!!mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-78007861086908756302010-08-12T21:35:00.003-05:002010-08-12T21:52:44.813-05:00Up To BatNext Wednesday I'm up to bat again. I will be hosting/co-hosting our Wednesday night Bible Study at the church. We have had a few teacher meetings and everything seems to be going well. I will be sharing a message about "coming in" to God's presence (worship) and "going out" with God's presence (witnessing). I'm excited to give this timely message which will teach a few points on what worshipping God does for us. My message will also cover going to the world with God's message. I am sad to say this message is not original. I didn't come up with it from my own personal devotion time. God didn't necessarily speak it in my heart. I did in fact get it from a sermon series I heard online. It was a four part series and I felt the first two parts of the series would make a great Bible Study. I'm not really concerned about my originality quite yet. After leading a couple Wednesday nights I've come to realize I need to concentrate more on my deliverance of my message. I need to get the butterflies out. It seems my brain fills with a fog as soon as I get in front of everyone. So I will use this time to try and flow through a message. I'm thankful that I will be up to bat with someone else. This will shorten the time issue. So much stress comes from trying to fill the entire time slot.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-49730010662463782612010-08-08T07:37:00.002-05:002010-08-08T07:41:47.618-05:00Why I'm Sorry IntroductionWhy I’m Sorry is a summary of how I feel today about the sins I’ve committed “yesterday.” Trying to put the past behind us sometimes isn’t always the easiest thing to do. My wrong doings are all filed under yesterday. What I did “yesterday” isn’t implied by actually yesterday even though I did sin yesterday. When you here me say “yesterday” I’m simply making a remark of the past. All the history wrapped up in my little life. With that said “yesterday holds a lot of trouble. Trouble that was destined to spell my future out for disaster. Short falls and little sins seem to build up on a person. If you don’t know how to deal with sin or just plain don’t deal with the sin in your life they make you who you are. They start to transform a person into something. Something less than desirable. That’s where I found myself. A person living a meaningless life who was less than desirable. The best choice I made was to repent of my “yesterday” and make Jesus Christ Lord and Savior of my life. When I accepted Jesus in my heart I knew I had a lot of sin to deal with. Sin I didn’t all want to deal with. But I knew I had to. I had so many addictions it was overwhelming. When I was baptized in the Holy Spirit which was only 7 days after I accepted Jesus in my heart I was instantly delivered from many addictions. Most people think that’s all they need. A quick fix so to speak. God’s power and love showed up in my life but the battle had just begun. The renewing of the mind was and is still next. Today, a little more than two years down the road I’m still free from drugs, alcohol and smoking. Yet the sin from “yesterday” still haunts me. A never ending battle of fixing my eyes on Jesus. Trying to weed out the negative effects that sin has made in me and resist the flesh of today so not to add to the sin of “yesterday.”mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-68137552727173699112010-07-30T21:30:00.003-05:002010-07-30T22:38:09.632-05:00Busy BusyIt seems so long ago since I sat down to type out some thoughts. I've been so busy. Preoccupied you might say. I've been reading a new book by Charles Swindoll called Strike the Original Match. A Biblical book about rekindling the fire in marriages that are on the edge. Suzy and I are reading this book as it is a requirement for our premarital counseling. I was reading a chapter dealing with little things that tear apart marriages. One of those little things was being too busy. I thought it was rather ironic how that same night I was going over this chapter I told Suzy I was too busy to go to town with her and enjoy the night. I had too many things to get done around the house to spend real quality time. In this chapter I came across a poem that I felt was worthy to share. Charles Swindoll puts it this way.<em> "It is really worth your time....I would add, don't hurry through it. Digest it. Read it-perhaps twice."</em><br /><em></em><br /><div align="center"><strong><em>Slow Me Down, Lord</em></strong></div><div align="center"><em>Slow me down, Lord.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Steady my hurried pace with a vision of the eternal reach of time.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Give me, amid the confusion of the day, the calmness of the everlasting hills.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles with the soothing music of the singing</em></div><div align="center"><em>streams that live in my memory.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Teach me the art of taking minute vacations-of slowing down to look at a flower, to</em></div><div align="center"><em>chat with a friend, to pat a dog, to smile at a child, to read a few lines from a good book.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Slow me down, Lord, and ispire me to send my roots deep into the soil of life's eduring</em></div><div align="center"><em>values, that I may grow toward my greater destiny.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Remind me each day that the race is not always to the swift; that there is more to life </em></div><div align="center"><em>than increasing its speed.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Let me look upward to the towering oak and know that it grew great and strong because it grew slowly and well.</em></div><div align="center"><em></em> </div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:85%;">by: Orin L. Crain</span></em></strong></div><div align="left"><strong><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em></strong> </div><div align="left">Perhaps many of us need to learn how to slow down. From our Bible Studies on Wednesday nights we have found from splitting into groups and taking surveys that most of us deal with the issue of time and how we manage it. How we spend our time can determine and reveal many things. This has been an issue for me and I plan on dealing with it. This is one termite I will not let ruin my home.</div><div align="center"><em></em> </div>mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-25445596189149244292010-07-10T13:29:00.002-05:002010-07-10T13:49:13.183-05:00Shine The Light In Such A WayThrough my devotion time with the Lord the other day I came across this scripture. Matthew 5:16. It says, "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Then I skipped over to Matthew chapter 6 and read this verse. (vs. 2) "So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full." If you keep reading through to verse 3 and 4 it almost seems that from chapter 5:16 to chapter 6:2-4 there might be some contradictions. But if you read throughout chapter 6 it shows the Lord wants us to be aware of "pride". Sometimes in our giving and other good works we can be boastful and proud. I think that our good works should shine before others as long as we are careful not to be too proud. How else are young believers or new Christians to see how it is to be done? How are others in the world (non-believers) to see the love of Christ if we hide every good deed? Look at Matt. 5:16 again. ...Let your light shine before men IN SUCH A WAY that they may see your good works.... Let me say that my girlfriend found out what kind of giver I am. I let her see those checks being written out to ministries that need my financial support. Even when it was inconvenient for me. Let's shine the light of Christ through our good works being careful not bring the spotlight on us. All the glory belongs to God.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6156799708188203110.post-70809478827160935942010-07-06T20:55:00.004-05:002010-07-06T21:17:40.545-05:00The Question IsWith my line of work I deal with many semi truck drivers. These truck drivers come from differing states. It's funny to me how they all seem to ask me the same questions. Their questions always seem to vary around the economy and how business is going for us. I hear this question often, Are you guys keeping busy? It's noticeably on peoples minds everywhere you go. And of course in the importing exporting/transporting business they notice the up and downs more on a first hand basis. You can kind of see the fear so to speak behind all their questions. They have this sense of fear of not knowing what is coming around the corner. It's easy to get caught up in this "fear" of not knowing. I could dwell on the bad business part of things and get caught up in the "fear" of things. But instead I thank God for my job and trust no matter where I am He will be my provider. When I speak to these truck drivers I usually turn the subject around to being happy to have a job. I always show a spirit of joy to be employed and be working 40 hour weeks. I choose not to get caught up in the "fear" of the future because I know I serve a loving God.mikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06351539601715281706noreply@blogger.com0