Saturday, November 21, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
consumer-that's me
In our Tangible Kingdom primer last week, we were looking at Community...What is Community? How do we get it?
On Saturday, (which I didn't get to until today), the primer said,
"When we are caught up in materialism our communities suffer. When we are buried in debt or concerned about our 'stuff,' we lack time to build significant, deep relationships with each other. Our lives will begin to focus on things like security and competing with our neighbors for status and control rather than on the good news . . . To put it plainly, materialism poisons community."
This summer, Ashley and I went through Financial Peace University with Dave Ramsey. We've been on a crazy kind of mission to become debt-free! That's an awesome feeling! And, it's really revealed how much of a "consumer" I am. What I never considered was how badly materialism can hinder community.
I've found that debt is kind of like being overweight. I remember when I was little my dad used to use the crass phrase, "fat and happy." It's similar to the phrase, "ignorance is bliss." You know there is a problem and you're okay with it. All of that to say, there have been times in my own life where I was in debt, I knew I was in debt, and I was happy with it. It didn't bother me. I still attempted to build deep, significant relationships with others, though.
However, I can see where this goes . . . living above your means is really living an inauthentic life. You're trying to be someone you are not . . . Ultimately, living in a mountain of debt can prevent community because we aren't being honest about who we really are (reflected in our car, house, clothes, accessories, etc.).
What are some examples you can think of?
Or, do you disagree? (I've heard it argued that if you have a lot of stuff, you can have more friends) What do you think?
On Saturday, (which I didn't get to until today), the primer said,
"When we are caught up in materialism our communities suffer. When we are buried in debt or concerned about our 'stuff,' we lack time to build significant, deep relationships with each other. Our lives will begin to focus on things like security and competing with our neighbors for status and control rather than on the good news . . . To put it plainly, materialism poisons community."
This summer, Ashley and I went through Financial Peace University with Dave Ramsey. We've been on a crazy kind of mission to become debt-free! That's an awesome feeling! And, it's really revealed how much of a "consumer" I am. What I never considered was how badly materialism can hinder community.
- Frequent disagreements with spouse, breaking down the foundation of community...marriage
- Keeping up with the "Jones"~Never let down your guard...inauthentic
I've found that debt is kind of like being overweight. I remember when I was little my dad used to use the crass phrase, "fat and happy." It's similar to the phrase, "ignorance is bliss." You know there is a problem and you're okay with it. All of that to say, there have been times in my own life where I was in debt, I knew I was in debt, and I was happy with it. It didn't bother me. I still attempted to build deep, significant relationships with others, though.
However, I can see where this goes . . . living above your means is really living an inauthentic life. You're trying to be someone you are not . . . Ultimately, living in a mountain of debt can prevent community because we aren't being honest about who we really are (reflected in our car, house, clothes, accessories, etc.).
What are some examples you can think of?
Or, do you disagree? (I've heard it argued that if you have a lot of stuff, you can have more friends) What do you think?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
powerful prayer
As you are likely aware, one of our core values at Free Chapel is "Powerful Prayer." That is, we believe that both individual and corporate prayer is a catalyst for leading people into a life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Up to this point, we have had an "hour of prayer" every Saturday morning since our church's conception. That's why we've seen 50 people trust Jesus Christ with their salvation over the last year!
We've never been able to offer childcare, however. Therefore, involvement has been limited. If we are going to reach the level that God's calling us to, it's only going to happen through corporate, unified prayer!
As we move into a season where spiritual seekers are more open to an invitation to a church service, we want to cover our efforts in prayer. Beginning this Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9-10 AM, we will have childcare available at Derek and Lindsey Mills home and prayer at mine... (We live 5 houses down from each other). If you want to come and need directions or the address, email info at freechapelaustin dot com .
Come on down...Prayer is powerful!
Up to this point, we have had an "hour of prayer" every Saturday morning since our church's conception. That's why we've seen 50 people trust Jesus Christ with their salvation over the last year!
We've never been able to offer childcare, however. Therefore, involvement has been limited. If we are going to reach the level that God's calling us to, it's only going to happen through corporate, unified prayer!
As we move into a season where spiritual seekers are more open to an invitation to a church service, we want to cover our efforts in prayer. Beginning this Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9-10 AM, we will have childcare available at Derek and Lindsey Mills home and prayer at mine... (We live 5 houses down from each other). If you want to come and need directions or the address, email info at freechapelaustin dot com .
Come on down...Prayer is powerful!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
self leadership
Speed of the leader, speed of the team. If the leader isn't growing the organization won't grow. I've often questioned both of those phrases. Is that really true?
Answer: Yes. Over the last few weeks, I've been reminded how critical it is. If we are going to have a healthy, growing church, I must be healthy and growing as a leader. A couple of things I've been doing in the area of "self-leadership" is as follows:
1. Getting up and falling down-I get up out of bed each morning, walk into my closet, close the door, and fall down on my knees, face to the ground. I confess my dependence upon God to give me wisdom, strength, and power to live for Him.
2. Reading it and it Reading me-I've had this conviction over the last several years...Sometimes, we read too much stuff. What I mean is that we can read voraciously and become broader in our perspective or more informed in a particular area. However, because we've read so broadly, we find ourselves unaffected except for the fleeting moment. I've been reading and allowing whatever I'm reading to "read me." It's been extremely helpful as I realize areas that I align with, areas I don't, areas I need to, and areas I will not align with for one reason or another. A great little, encouraging read is The Climb of Your Life (order copy here)by Dr. Chris Stephens. If you'd like to reach your potential, grab a copy of this book and let it read you. Anyone who knows me, knows that The Tangible Kingdom by Hugh Halter is another one that's rocking me...And, has been for 3 months, at least!
3. Prayer-I love to pray. I can't pray a long time. But, I enjoy talking to God and trying to listen to him talk to me. Perhaps the term "self-leadership" isn't best used here, because this is "spirit-leadership"--one of the lost practices of the local church, at times. I'm finding I talk to God about almost everything these days. Good days. Not as good days. Challenges. Opportunities. All of it gets its mention to God. I guess I categorize this under "self-leadership" because I don't think it's intuitive for most of us. I think it's a discipline. We need reminders. We need patterns. We need systems.
What are some things you do currently to enhance yourself?
Answer: Yes. Over the last few weeks, I've been reminded how critical it is. If we are going to have a healthy, growing church, I must be healthy and growing as a leader. A couple of things I've been doing in the area of "self-leadership" is as follows:
1. Getting up and falling down-I get up out of bed each morning, walk into my closet, close the door, and fall down on my knees, face to the ground. I confess my dependence upon God to give me wisdom, strength, and power to live for Him.
2. Reading it and it Reading me-I've had this conviction over the last several years...Sometimes, we read too much stuff. What I mean is that we can read voraciously and become broader in our perspective or more informed in a particular area. However, because we've read so broadly, we find ourselves unaffected except for the fleeting moment. I've been reading and allowing whatever I'm reading to "read me." It's been extremely helpful as I realize areas that I align with, areas I don't, areas I need to, and areas I will not align with for one reason or another. A great little, encouraging read is The Climb of Your Life (order copy here)by Dr. Chris Stephens. If you'd like to reach your potential, grab a copy of this book and let it read you. Anyone who knows me, knows that The Tangible Kingdom by Hugh Halter is another one that's rocking me...And, has been for 3 months, at least!
3. Prayer-I love to pray. I can't pray a long time. But, I enjoy talking to God and trying to listen to him talk to me. Perhaps the term "self-leadership" isn't best used here, because this is "spirit-leadership"--one of the lost practices of the local church, at times. I'm finding I talk to God about almost everything these days. Good days. Not as good days. Challenges. Opportunities. All of it gets its mention to God. I guess I categorize this under "self-leadership" because I don't think it's intuitive for most of us. I think it's a discipline. We need reminders. We need patterns. We need systems.
What are some things you do currently to enhance yourself?
Thursday, November 5, 2009
it's going to be one of those sundays
Have you ever had that feeling where you weren't sure if you would wanted to invite someone to a church service on a Sunday? Is the message going to relate to my friend? Is it going to be meaningful? Well, this Sunday is going to be one of those Sundays where you want to be sure to invite a friend to Free Chapel!
I only have a few finishing touches to put on the message for Sunday and I can't quite describe how incredibly excited I am to share this message of hope, healing, and freedom! Jesus came for the least of society. No reckless behavior is too far gone!
This is a "Come and See Jesus at my church" kind of Sunday! Live with no regrets! Invite someone to join you for church and take them to lunch after! It's going to be one of those Sundays!
I only have a few finishing touches to put on the message for Sunday and I can't quite describe how incredibly excited I am to share this message of hope, healing, and freedom! Jesus came for the least of society. No reckless behavior is too far gone!
This is a "Come and See Jesus at my church" kind of Sunday! Live with no regrets! Invite someone to join you for church and take them to lunch after! It's going to be one of those Sundays!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
a blog worth following...
If you are a woman, I think you'd enjoy following this blog as it unfolds. This is written by someone in our church who has been deeply wounded, but has found extravagant healing and grace.
If you're a dude, it may be helpful to assist you in seeing women with God's eyes.
Seriously, good stuff!
Check it out here.
Oh yea, here's what my lovely bride had to say about it on her blog:
A Story-I have a friend who just started a new blog that I highly recommend. She is sharing her story in hopes to help someone else. Her story is deep and moving, but completely has God's redeeming love sewn throughout the whole thing. She has a huge heart for hurting women. I love how God uses our personal stories either bad, broken, bored, or even good to help others. If you know of any one, especially women, who might be blessed or encouraged by following my friends story please pass it along. Beauty For Ashes
If you're a dude, it may be helpful to assist you in seeing women with God's eyes.
Seriously, good stuff!
Check it out here.
Oh yea, here's what my lovely bride had to say about it on her blog:
A Story-I have a friend who just started a new blog that I highly recommend. She is sharing her story in hopes to help someone else. Her story is deep and moving, but completely has God's redeeming love sewn throughout the whole thing. She has a huge heart for hurting women. I love how God uses our personal stories either bad, broken, bored, or even good to help others. If you know of any one, especially women, who might be blessed or encouraged by following my friends story please pass it along. Beauty For Ashes
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
need a friend?
The ever popular TV show Cheers popularized a song... "Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name...." As it's pounded out on the piano, you find yourself singing along almost without thinking.
A decade or so later, Friends', "der-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner, der-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner" guitar riff theme song rang out.
It's something that rings true in each of our lives. We need friends.
Have you ever considered talking to God like you would one of your friends?
Just this morning, I was thinking about some stuff that was weighing on my mind, and I started to keep it in, but then I thought, "Why not talk to God about this stuff?" So, I did.
And, I was reminded that Jesus himself called his followers "friends" (John 15:15).
You may feel distant from God. But the distance is created by us, not him. It's been said that God is only one footstep away from you. And, that's your step towards him. In fact, Solomon wrote, "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" Proverbs 18:24.
Whatever you've got going on in your life, if you need a friend to talk to...God is available.
A decade or so later, Friends', "der-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner, der-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner-ner" guitar riff theme song rang out.
It's something that rings true in each of our lives. We need friends.
Have you ever considered talking to God like you would one of your friends?
Just this morning, I was thinking about some stuff that was weighing on my mind, and I started to keep it in, but then I thought, "Why not talk to God about this stuff?" So, I did.
And, I was reminded that Jesus himself called his followers "friends" (John 15:15).
You may feel distant from God. But the distance is created by us, not him. It's been said that God is only one footstep away from you. And, that's your step towards him. In fact, Solomon wrote, "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" Proverbs 18:24.
Whatever you've got going on in your life, if you need a friend to talk to...God is available.
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