Mat 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
The reason I highlighted disciples is the very fact that I feel there is lack of discipleship in the church today, I have titled this post "Converts or disciples?" Because so often people become believers and then they stay in the convert stage without growing. Someone could profess Christianity for 10 years, and still not know their bible or show fruit.
Jesus's command is very simple, and very straightforward. Make disciples, where do we get the word disciple from? it comes from a greek word literally meaning "Learner".
How can a person learn unless they are taught? How can they teach unless they are sent? Don't you see?
Unless we are teaching the whole word of God and equipping them for every good work(2nd timothy 3:17) those people who are converts will not grow.
I'm reminded of the parable of the sower, when Jesus describes the soil that plants take root then wither when tough times come. those are converts who have not been taught. The world does not need "hit-run-missions" The world needs the word of God!
It's one thing to lead a person to Christ, another to actually have that person grow.
Our command is very simple, but the church has made it so complicated! We go out and hold these crusades, but then we move unto the next city. and what happens to those who got saved? I don't doubt that there's growth from some, but discipleship must be a emphasis.
Jesus didn't leave his followers alone, he spent three years with them. and He only had 12, one of which betrayed him. Did that change how he loved them? No! He invested in them, and because of that, they went out and formed the early church.
Jesus invested in them, it was relational evangelism. Not a hit and run mission. I'm not dissing those crusaders, but crusades without follow up is going to fail in the end.
so in closing:
Invest in someone today!
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Monday, August 29, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Judgement or simply natural?
Today, this week. our nation has faced a ton of un ordinary disasters. From earthquakes to hurricanes.
So it is sparking much questions among the church, is this a sample of judgment? Or is this simply natural? I lean towards a taste of judgment. While I'm NOT the fire and brimstone type of guy. I see a steady downfall of America, we have turned our back on God and we have neglected Israel.
And no where do I see a mention of America in the bible regarding last days, this gives more reason for possible judgment. However, we do know all nations will be judged in the end, but those who curse Israel will be cursed as Genesis promises.
Which is exactly what we have done to Israel!
So where does the church come in? Our job according to the bible is to make disciples of all nations, we are to be living for the Lord more and more as the day of his coming approaches! That means, sharing our faith bolder and bolder. only when the time of the gentiles is closed will he come back! Let's find that gentile! So America, wake up! Consider the warnings!
So it is sparking much questions among the church, is this a sample of judgment? Or is this simply natural? I lean towards a taste of judgment. While I'm NOT the fire and brimstone type of guy. I see a steady downfall of America, we have turned our back on God and we have neglected Israel.
And no where do I see a mention of America in the bible regarding last days, this gives more reason for possible judgment. However, we do know all nations will be judged in the end, but those who curse Israel will be cursed as Genesis promises.
Which is exactly what we have done to Israel!
So where does the church come in? Our job according to the bible is to make disciples of all nations, we are to be living for the Lord more and more as the day of his coming approaches! That means, sharing our faith bolder and bolder. only when the time of the gentiles is closed will he come back! Let's find that gentile! So America, wake up! Consider the warnings!
Do the work.
2Ti 4:5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
What does this mean? This means we who are called, will endure afflictions, without tribulations we will not fulfill our ministry.
Who is God calling you to reach today? It all starts with one, how long will we go about our lives ignoring the open doors? Be open to the spirit, but be bold!
Fulfilling your ministry, this means complete fulfillment. Knowing that you are doing what God has called you to do.
Maybe your a talented skater, well use it for the Lord! Be sure of your calling!
What does this mean? This means we who are called, will endure afflictions, without tribulations we will not fulfill our ministry.
Who is God calling you to reach today? It all starts with one, how long will we go about our lives ignoring the open doors? Be open to the spirit, but be bold!
Fulfilling your ministry, this means complete fulfillment. Knowing that you are doing what God has called you to do.
Maybe your a talented skater, well use it for the Lord! Be sure of your calling!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Falling away.
2Th 2:3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for [that Day will not come] unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition.
What does this mean? This verse was a verse that stuck out to me in my devotions,
This means that a falling away of the church must happen, how sad that we see this being fulfilled. All the more reason for being steadfast, and grounded in the word of God.
As we see the church falling away, we are losing the battle. We have compromised!
We are the bride of Christ, why are we sleeping with the world?
Wake up call! Hello! Falling away must come, and it is coming.
Look around, churches are compromising. But you know what? Look up! our redemption draws nigh, the end is coming! But yet, we have a promise that we will be raptured out before the end.
Rev 3:10 "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
Thats our promise!
Finally we must wake up! people are going to hell everyday and were concerned about what movie were going to go see? or what mall were going to shop at? Eternity is at stake and America is going to Hell! What is the church doing? Why are we sleeping?
So, now we see we are called to walk humbly before God, and be a witness in everything we do! A life filled with the holy spirit will change your world.
What does this mean? This verse was a verse that stuck out to me in my devotions,
This means that a falling away of the church must happen, how sad that we see this being fulfilled. All the more reason for being steadfast, and grounded in the word of God.
As we see the church falling away, we are losing the battle. We have compromised!
We are the bride of Christ, why are we sleeping with the world?
Wake up call! Hello! Falling away must come, and it is coming.
Look around, churches are compromising. But you know what? Look up! our redemption draws nigh, the end is coming! But yet, we have a promise that we will be raptured out before the end.
Rev 3:10 "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.
Thats our promise!
Finally we must wake up! people are going to hell everyday and were concerned about what movie were going to go see? or what mall were going to shop at? Eternity is at stake and America is going to Hell! What is the church doing? Why are we sleeping?
So, now we see we are called to walk humbly before God, and be a witness in everything we do! A life filled with the holy spirit will change your world.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
What is our life?
Jam 4:14 whereas you do not know what [will happen] tomorrow. For what [is] your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
This verse is reminding me that life is so short, and that there is so much at stake. tonight, I write heavy hearted.thoughts of friendships,plans, and my future are swirling in my head. The more and more I think on these things, the more I realize life is short, I need to have an eternal focus.
People and God's word are all that matter eternally. My challenge this week:
think eternally! Think on those those around you, who can you show God's love to?
Who can you share the gospel with? Our lives are vapors, they come and go.
how are we living? Wake up! this is a cry to the church worldwide!
I'm so frustrated at the state of the church, we treat our lives as if we last forever. This earth is not our home! only what we do for Christ will last!
I myself forget that eternal perspective, when I backslide. I'm not looking at the fact that eternity is at stake, this is not a matter of if you can lose your salvation or not. it comes down to, are u willing to make that one mistake could separate you from God? Thats a gray area I don't wanna be in, today. Lets walk in eternity.
This verse is reminding me that life is so short, and that there is so much at stake. tonight, I write heavy hearted.thoughts of friendships,plans, and my future are swirling in my head. The more and more I think on these things, the more I realize life is short, I need to have an eternal focus.
People and God's word are all that matter eternally. My challenge this week:
think eternally! Think on those those around you, who can you show God's love to?
Who can you share the gospel with? Our lives are vapors, they come and go.
how are we living? Wake up! this is a cry to the church worldwide!
I'm so frustrated at the state of the church, we treat our lives as if we last forever. This earth is not our home! only what we do for Christ will last!
I myself forget that eternal perspective, when I backslide. I'm not looking at the fact that eternity is at stake, this is not a matter of if you can lose your salvation or not. it comes down to, are u willing to make that one mistake could separate you from God? Thats a gray area I don't wanna be in, today. Lets walk in eternity.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Random babblings
wow, let me dust the dust off this web page if that's possible. haha, It's been forever since I've posted. I almost feel I'm sending messages to outer space.
The Lord has been doing so much in my own heart, I wish I could write it out. Jesus is good, it's late and I'm tired but I'm going to start typing.
lately, I've been redirecting my focus on missions to how we can equip those who are sent out. 2nd Tim 3:33 says that the word of God equips us for every good work, my heart is to see youth and adults equipped and then sent out.
thats my heart, eph 4 talks about the edifying of the body of Christ, we all have a role to play.
how can they go unless they are sent? Who will send them? I am reminded of David and his men when they went out to battle and few hundred men stayed behind to guard supplies. They too received the same amount as those who went to war. Because they were one with them.
We are one in Christ, no person above another. Granted, we may have forms of leadership but we are all sinners in need of Jesus. We have different backgrounds but we should have the same heart.
How can people minster, unless they are ministered to? people without strength die. We need to support those fellow laborers.
After the recent missions conference, I am reminded even more that it is possible to save souls from your home. All it takes is a support of a missionary abroad, or a day of prayer. Maybe an encouraging letter to someone overseas, we need to equip our body of Christ with the gospel and then send them out.
Thats my heart and vision is to go and encourage those who are serving abroad.
How did the early church start? by TEACHING the word of God, that is what we are missing in America, we are not teaching the full counsel of God, thats why we are failing, and why the church is dying. What has happened? We either have to go hard into Jesus, or go home. you can't live a double a life, I tried. It don't work!
So much to express, so little time.
The Lord has been doing so much in my own heart, I wish I could write it out. Jesus is good, it's late and I'm tired but I'm going to start typing.
lately, I've been redirecting my focus on missions to how we can equip those who are sent out. 2nd Tim 3:33 says that the word of God equips us for every good work, my heart is to see youth and adults equipped and then sent out.
thats my heart, eph 4 talks about the edifying of the body of Christ, we all have a role to play.
how can they go unless they are sent? Who will send them? I am reminded of David and his men when they went out to battle and few hundred men stayed behind to guard supplies. They too received the same amount as those who went to war. Because they were one with them.
We are one in Christ, no person above another. Granted, we may have forms of leadership but we are all sinners in need of Jesus. We have different backgrounds but we should have the same heart.
How can people minster, unless they are ministered to? people without strength die. We need to support those fellow laborers.
After the recent missions conference, I am reminded even more that it is possible to save souls from your home. All it takes is a support of a missionary abroad, or a day of prayer. Maybe an encouraging letter to someone overseas, we need to equip our body of Christ with the gospel and then send them out.
Thats my heart and vision is to go and encourage those who are serving abroad.
How did the early church start? by TEACHING the word of God, that is what we are missing in America, we are not teaching the full counsel of God, thats why we are failing, and why the church is dying. What has happened? We either have to go hard into Jesus, or go home. you can't live a double a life, I tried. It don't work!
So much to express, so little time.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Book of John
Well today I finished the book of John, it's been a good journey through the book. As I examine the life of Christ, and how he SERVED.
I am reminded but convicted by chapter 21 as he addresses the need to follow him.
I feel like Peter with so much zeal but not truly focusing on the Lord.
While Zeal in it's self is not bad, it can take the place of following Christ.
Peter had so much trust on Jesus, rather then in Jesus. Like Peter, I tend to be so excited for Jesus I get ahead of Jesus.
it took Jesus testing Peter by asking "do you love me?" to really challenge him.
As I finish the book of John, I see Jesus as such a servant. He laid down his life for us. Perfect example of servant hood.
He set the example of loving others, by washing his own betrayers feet.
If we obey his commandments we will love one another!
Judas and Peter both failed, Judas however choose the road of guilt.
Peter went on to be one of the founding fathers of the early church.
When we have failed, how do we react?
Jesus commands us to follow him and forsake everything not turning back.
We are each called to some form of ministry, but we must be united with Jesus.
As he prays in John 17.
I am reminded but convicted by chapter 21 as he addresses the need to follow him.
I feel like Peter with so much zeal but not truly focusing on the Lord.
While Zeal in it's self is not bad, it can take the place of following Christ.
Peter had so much trust on Jesus, rather then in Jesus. Like Peter, I tend to be so excited for Jesus I get ahead of Jesus.
it took Jesus testing Peter by asking "do you love me?" to really challenge him.
As I finish the book of John, I see Jesus as such a servant. He laid down his life for us. Perfect example of servant hood.
He set the example of loving others, by washing his own betrayers feet.
If we obey his commandments we will love one another!
Judas and Peter both failed, Judas however choose the road of guilt.
Peter went on to be one of the founding fathers of the early church.
When we have failed, how do we react?
Jesus commands us to follow him and forsake everything not turning back.
We are each called to some form of ministry, but we must be united with Jesus.
As he prays in John 17.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Long time no post
Wow, it's been a long time since I've posted.
For the past few months I've been heavy under attack like never before. Been to the darkest depths. And have had the darkest thoughts. I've battled depression and pride.
Pride in who I am and in what I do.
Depression in my value and worth.
It's been a hard road of repentance and brokenness. Now I'm stuck on what it means to wash someones feet in John 13.
What it means to submit and serve despite the cost and despite the leader.
I wish I had learned this sooner in life, I wish my pride would have been broken and is being broken sooner then now.
Theres days I just want to quit, throw it all out the window.
My washing of feet is vacuuming a Sunday school room, or cleaning the bathrooms. Two roles I could care less about.
I wish I could always be doing the puppets and doing what I love but I can't always.
God wants us to wash someones feet today in some way. How can you wash someones feet?
I've been studying the book of john and I'm learning so much more about Jesus ministry now then I have before. I'm realizing he was about the people and was not above the father's will nor those he healed. In John 9-
The blind man is healed but then we see that Jesus sought him out "when he had found him" after the ministering to him. He engaged in the blind mans life. How many time do we minster then move on? When does ministry become target practice? Just another number?
Every soul is important.
Jesus humbled himself to the point of death. Can we be humbled for five min? There's so much on my heart to share. The scriptures are alive!
For the past few months I've been heavy under attack like never before. Been to the darkest depths. And have had the darkest thoughts. I've battled depression and pride.
Pride in who I am and in what I do.
Depression in my value and worth.
It's been a hard road of repentance and brokenness. Now I'm stuck on what it means to wash someones feet in John 13.
What it means to submit and serve despite the cost and despite the leader.
I wish I had learned this sooner in life, I wish my pride would have been broken and is being broken sooner then now.
Theres days I just want to quit, throw it all out the window.
My washing of feet is vacuuming a Sunday school room, or cleaning the bathrooms. Two roles I could care less about.
I wish I could always be doing the puppets and doing what I love but I can't always.
God wants us to wash someones feet today in some way. How can you wash someones feet?
I've been studying the book of john and I'm learning so much more about Jesus ministry now then I have before. I'm realizing he was about the people and was not above the father's will nor those he healed. In John 9-
The blind man is healed but then we see that Jesus sought him out "when he had found him" after the ministering to him. He engaged in the blind mans life. How many time do we minster then move on? When does ministry become target practice? Just another number?
Every soul is important.
Jesus humbled himself to the point of death. Can we be humbled for five min? There's so much on my heart to share. The scriptures are alive!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Truly I have forsaken this blog
I have been so overwhelmed with pressing ministry, that I seem to have neglected this blog.
The ministry is growing amidst struggles, and the Lord is so Good! Perhaps some updates are needed:
Well, the puppet ministry is growing! with new members and possible expansions this summer. The lord is truly raising up a solid puppet ministry.
Outreaches: This summer, the parks are going to be hit with the love of Christ.
there is no agenda other then love the lost. no weekly event, no weekly barbecue. Simply praying and reaching the lost. I am eager to begin this, and can barely wait for the last snow to melt and the ground to dry!(Yes, we just got hit with very very very light snow)
Youth Group:
It's growing spiritually, had a sweet time in the word this past weekend, as a interactive bible study happened. It was cool to study Eph 4 and then go around the room and share on it.
Spanish ministry:
That also continue to grow, amidst the struggles. The teaching ministry in regards to media is also growing, there is suddenly a pressing demand for more teachings.
As summer comes around the corner, home bible studies are bound to start up.
Last friday, the spanish church saw three teens come to know the Lord. Praise God!
I've been learning what it means to pray and intercede, the Lord has really been putting people on my heart to pray for, and also guiding me in how I should pray.
It's funny but cool how the spirit lays a specific prayer request on our hearts, and so when that person finally comes to you. You already know! I think when the spirit reveals things, it's sooo much more informative then the person will tell you.
Praise God that the spirit makes intercession for us!
A few prayer request:
1.wisdom for where I should apply at for a summer job
2. Youth Group
3. The spanish ministry, but more specifically, for the teaching ministry. Money, and new resources easy to copy.
4. Summer outreaches, that God's love would be evident.
5. Continued guidance in regards to plans after high school
Thanks for your prayers,
in Christ,
Josiah
The ministry is growing amidst struggles, and the Lord is so Good! Perhaps some updates are needed:
Well, the puppet ministry is growing! with new members and possible expansions this summer. The lord is truly raising up a solid puppet ministry.
Outreaches: This summer, the parks are going to be hit with the love of Christ.
there is no agenda other then love the lost. no weekly event, no weekly barbecue. Simply praying and reaching the lost. I am eager to begin this, and can barely wait for the last snow to melt and the ground to dry!(Yes, we just got hit with very very very light snow)
Youth Group:
It's growing spiritually, had a sweet time in the word this past weekend, as a interactive bible study happened. It was cool to study Eph 4 and then go around the room and share on it.
Spanish ministry:
That also continue to grow, amidst the struggles. The teaching ministry in regards to media is also growing, there is suddenly a pressing demand for more teachings.
As summer comes around the corner, home bible studies are bound to start up.
Last friday, the spanish church saw three teens come to know the Lord. Praise God!
I've been learning what it means to pray and intercede, the Lord has really been putting people on my heart to pray for, and also guiding me in how I should pray.
It's funny but cool how the spirit lays a specific prayer request on our hearts, and so when that person finally comes to you. You already know! I think when the spirit reveals things, it's sooo much more informative then the person will tell you.
Praise God that the spirit makes intercession for us!
A few prayer request:
1.wisdom for where I should apply at for a summer job
2. Youth Group
3. The spanish ministry, but more specifically, for the teaching ministry. Money, and new resources easy to copy.
4. Summer outreaches, that God's love would be evident.
5. Continued guidance in regards to plans after high school
Thanks for your prayers,
in Christ,
Josiah
Monday, March 28, 2011
Long time, no post!
Well I guess It's long past time for another blog post!
These past few weeks have been a hard, but good past few weeks. I've been really doing a lot of praying and heart checking. I've also had to fight a few battles spiritually,
but God is my defender.
I can't explain the things going on. but I have been really starting to realize how wicked our hearts are.
I was talking to a fellow believer and he said that it's not wrong to discover how wicked we are, it's what we do with that after the holy spirit has convicted us that matters.
I have felt like I'm growing a lot lately, having to do more things i have not wanted to do. Like go to people and apologize even if I was not in the wrong. and if I was, then that was even harder.
I'm also learning to let go, and when I say let go I really mean let go.
I was praying recently about something I was needing to let go of, and I kept telling God "Lord, help me to let go of_______"'
Finally the Lord told me "Josiah, quit asking for help, and just let go. you keep bringing it back"
It hit home, cause when we let go. We are not suppose to keep bringing up and asking for help to let go cause we have not fully let go then.
Letting go is when the situation comes up and we don't even notice cause were resting in God.
Sometimes it's hard to let go of the pain, and it's even harder when we do but the other side does not.
But in the end God will honor that.
These past few weeks have been a hard, but good past few weeks. I've been really doing a lot of praying and heart checking. I've also had to fight a few battles spiritually,
but God is my defender.
I can't explain the things going on. but I have been really starting to realize how wicked our hearts are.
I was talking to a fellow believer and he said that it's not wrong to discover how wicked we are, it's what we do with that after the holy spirit has convicted us that matters.
I have felt like I'm growing a lot lately, having to do more things i have not wanted to do. Like go to people and apologize even if I was not in the wrong. and if I was, then that was even harder.
I'm also learning to let go, and when I say let go I really mean let go.
I was praying recently about something I was needing to let go of, and I kept telling God "Lord, help me to let go of_______"'
Finally the Lord told me "Josiah, quit asking for help, and just let go. you keep bringing it back"
It hit home, cause when we let go. We are not suppose to keep bringing up and asking for help to let go cause we have not fully let go then.
Letting go is when the situation comes up and we don't even notice cause were resting in God.
Sometimes it's hard to let go of the pain, and it's even harder when we do but the other side does not.
But in the end God will honor that.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
If anyone reads this
Wow, I know, I know. It's been awhile since I've posted.
but I've been running hard and really busy lately. I almost feel to the point of just quitting it all! Lately I've been discouraged and overwhelmed.
I don't see how God can bring me through this time of testing emotionally,physically, etc. Someday I just want to quit!
but I know my God is greater, my God is stronger.
And in the storms, in the desert place is when I really know him. my problems are huge when I look at what the Lord is NOT doing rather then at what the Lord IS doing.
I told a pastor that on Monday this past week, not surprising that the Lord would take those very words he gave me to share and test me with them. then came Tuesday, that's when it all began. I can't explain it, but I was being tested and am being tested.
I look around and see a battle brewing. I see something i don't know what moving through the ministry. and causing a ripple effect, I've never felt so far away.
I think of David and how he was surrounded by people but still felt alone.
the lord is my shepherd and I know he hears my voice, sometimes a sheep must be alone so that way he may be tested to see if he genuinely a sheep.
I never though I'd be at where I am now. but the Lord knows, and i gotta keep that focus. I'm being broken and tested, it's hard but good.
I wish I had something encouraging to say, but I just need to refocus my thoughts on Christ. Truly, he hears my call!
but I've been running hard and really busy lately. I almost feel to the point of just quitting it all! Lately I've been discouraged and overwhelmed.
I don't see how God can bring me through this time of testing emotionally,physically, etc. Someday I just want to quit!
but I know my God is greater, my God is stronger.
And in the storms, in the desert place is when I really know him. my problems are huge when I look at what the Lord is NOT doing rather then at what the Lord IS doing.
I told a pastor that on Monday this past week, not surprising that the Lord would take those very words he gave me to share and test me with them. then came Tuesday, that's when it all began. I can't explain it, but I was being tested and am being tested.
I look around and see a battle brewing. I see something i don't know what moving through the ministry. and causing a ripple effect, I've never felt so far away.
I think of David and how he was surrounded by people but still felt alone.
the lord is my shepherd and I know he hears my voice, sometimes a sheep must be alone so that way he may be tested to see if he genuinely a sheep.
I never though I'd be at where I am now. but the Lord knows, and i gotta keep that focus. I'm being broken and tested, it's hard but good.
I wish I had something encouraging to say, but I just need to refocus my thoughts on Christ. Truly, he hears my call!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A listening ear
something I've been learning lately is to just shut up and listen. I was talking to a dear friend of mine lately, and I was telling her that sometimes I feel as though when I am quiet and listening people ask me if something is wrong. i try to just shut up and listen but then others treat it weird. But truly he who control his tongue is wise.
Our words can be so powerful but so meaningless, if they are not the Lord.
I'm learning to only listen and not speak my opinion.
And so much more happens when you listen to somebody. it shows you care,
it shows you really honestly aren't thinking of yourself. It's not always easy just listening cause we all have opinions, but it will make someone feel special when you do.
Yesterday, I reached out to Caleb. A teenage guy at our church, who looks like he needs a friend, he lit up at me talking to him! It's so cool to just listen, please pray for Caleb, he's one of many crying out for help. So much in his life, he's got such value and God loves him just as much as anyone else.
He needs Jesus, I can't say if he knows him or not but he needs someone to just care for him.
I invited him to youth group, and I hope he comes.
So, we had another guy come to youth group last week, it was sweet getting more guys there. I feel like I'm slowly more and more free to move on to other things in life as the Lord leads. I'm excited but patient in seeing what and where the Lord will take me next!
I had the chance to skype with our missionary in Israel yesterday, please keep praying for James and Darcy as they make a move to the northern part of Israel.
Also pray for Jesse, a youth leader here as he takes a three trip to Israel starting this week. Pray that he may be an encouragement and a light to the Jewish people and the church there. Also pray for protection and for the nation of Israel.
Pray for James and Darcy to find a reasonable apartment and for wisdom in where to relocate.
Also, please pray for Brian. A man living in Haifa doing ministry work.
Now before I close I ask prayer for myself as I'm battling a cold. And want to be well before the nursing home outreach this weekend.
In closing,
keep your eyes on Jesus! And press on!
Josiah
Our words can be so powerful but so meaningless, if they are not the Lord.
I'm learning to only listen and not speak my opinion.
And so much more happens when you listen to somebody. it shows you care,
it shows you really honestly aren't thinking of yourself. It's not always easy just listening cause we all have opinions, but it will make someone feel special when you do.
Yesterday, I reached out to Caleb. A teenage guy at our church, who looks like he needs a friend, he lit up at me talking to him! It's so cool to just listen, please pray for Caleb, he's one of many crying out for help. So much in his life, he's got such value and God loves him just as much as anyone else.
He needs Jesus, I can't say if he knows him or not but he needs someone to just care for him.
I invited him to youth group, and I hope he comes.
So, we had another guy come to youth group last week, it was sweet getting more guys there. I feel like I'm slowly more and more free to move on to other things in life as the Lord leads. I'm excited but patient in seeing what and where the Lord will take me next!
I had the chance to skype with our missionary in Israel yesterday, please keep praying for James and Darcy as they make a move to the northern part of Israel.
Also pray for Jesse, a youth leader here as he takes a three trip to Israel starting this week. Pray that he may be an encouragement and a light to the Jewish people and the church there. Also pray for protection and for the nation of Israel.
Pray for James and Darcy to find a reasonable apartment and for wisdom in where to relocate.
Also, please pray for Brian. A man living in Haifa doing ministry work.
Now before I close I ask prayer for myself as I'm battling a cold. And want to be well before the nursing home outreach this weekend.
In closing,
keep your eyes on Jesus! And press on!
Josiah
Monday, February 14, 2011
Random babblings
I suppose it's time again for another blog post,
if anyone ever reads these. Thats ok though, I enjoy writing my thoughts even if I am writing to the choir.
I have a work in progress, I'm writing notes on what it means to Abide in Christ and I'm excited to post it sometime. Most of which I'm sharing in discipleship Lord willing.
It's going to be a blessing to continue digest.
I suppose i need to update on what I've been doing well this sums it up:
School,youth group,school,puppets,school,youth group, school!
I've been pretty crazy with school being my senior year of High school. I'm excited to see where the Lord will take me next. I'm considering a few options for my life. But taking one day at a time.
I'm learning to love my youth group friends, and know that I'm supposed to finish well. Puppet ministry is going good, and outreaches are being planned be in prayer for this door.
Please continue to pray for the spanish ministry here, Pastor Saul is being a faithful servant and people are coming back to the Lord!
The teaching ministry is growing, we have been able to hand out packs to Hispanics for house churches. continue to pray for provision to buy needed CD copying supplies. And for the spanish congregation in small town in our state.
The lord is truly desiring to work among this ethnic group.
Speaking of ethnic groups, thoughts of doing outreaches to Muslim children once again are brewing! we now have a man from Sudan coming to our church, please be in prayer for Salah, he is a former Muslim who loves the Lord and is here trying to make a better living. He has expressed interest in reaching Muslims. pray!
Perhaps the Lord is opening the door for this opportunity.
Wow, it's truly humbling when we step back and see all the Lord is doing! and this is only the surface! I'm amazed he would even use us! At first glance this seems like nothing compared to the revivals of Africa and the Iranian church growing!
but even this is a mission field. Even this can be a struggle and a victory.
your schools,your neighbor hoods, and your city parks, all can be a mission field!
We just gotta walk and abide like Jesus!
if anyone ever reads these. Thats ok though, I enjoy writing my thoughts even if I am writing to the choir.
I have a work in progress, I'm writing notes on what it means to Abide in Christ and I'm excited to post it sometime. Most of which I'm sharing in discipleship Lord willing.
It's going to be a blessing to continue digest.
I suppose i need to update on what I've been doing well this sums it up:
School,youth group,school,puppets,school,youth group, school!
I've been pretty crazy with school being my senior year of High school. I'm excited to see where the Lord will take me next. I'm considering a few options for my life. But taking one day at a time.
I'm learning to love my youth group friends, and know that I'm supposed to finish well. Puppet ministry is going good, and outreaches are being planned be in prayer for this door.
Please continue to pray for the spanish ministry here, Pastor Saul is being a faithful servant and people are coming back to the Lord!
The teaching ministry is growing, we have been able to hand out packs to Hispanics for house churches. continue to pray for provision to buy needed CD copying supplies. And for the spanish congregation in small town in our state.
The lord is truly desiring to work among this ethnic group.
Speaking of ethnic groups, thoughts of doing outreaches to Muslim children once again are brewing! we now have a man from Sudan coming to our church, please be in prayer for Salah, he is a former Muslim who loves the Lord and is here trying to make a better living. He has expressed interest in reaching Muslims. pray!
Perhaps the Lord is opening the door for this opportunity.
Wow, it's truly humbling when we step back and see all the Lord is doing! and this is only the surface! I'm amazed he would even use us! At first glance this seems like nothing compared to the revivals of Africa and the Iranian church growing!
but even this is a mission field. Even this can be a struggle and a victory.
your schools,your neighbor hoods, and your city parks, all can be a mission field!
We just gotta walk and abide like Jesus!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Light in the Darkness.
Wow,
so much for me posting again on weekly basis. I've been kinda going through a time time in my life spiritually. I'm pondering stuff and really seeking the Lord on areas
of ministry.
I've had a time of testing and a time of being refreshed. The ministry is growing and the lord is doing a work. It's exciting to see him move throughout the ministry.
In discipleship group we are studying 1st John. While I was and am sick and unable to attend last night, I was blessed by 1st John 1.
1st John 1 speaks of the light, there is only light in God nothing else.
Jesus the light has overcome the darkness of the world(John 16:33)
even in our darkest hour, he shines! the reason why we get into darkness is cause we don't focus on the Light.
But what happens when darkness meets light? John 1:5 says it can not comprehend it.
We win! confusion caused by darkness is gone cause the dark can not handle light. it has no fellowship with it.
The reason why I'm discouraged and why so many pastor get discouraged is cause we aren't focusing on the Light.
How important it is we keep our eyes on that! cause if we are not focusing on the light then only darkness will be evident.
Praise the Lord for his word!
so much for me posting again on weekly basis. I've been kinda going through a time time in my life spiritually. I'm pondering stuff and really seeking the Lord on areas
of ministry.
I've had a time of testing and a time of being refreshed. The ministry is growing and the lord is doing a work. It's exciting to see him move throughout the ministry.
In discipleship group we are studying 1st John. While I was and am sick and unable to attend last night, I was blessed by 1st John 1.
1st John 1 speaks of the light, there is only light in God nothing else.
Jesus the light has overcome the darkness of the world(John 16:33)
even in our darkest hour, he shines! the reason why we get into darkness is cause we don't focus on the Light.
But what happens when darkness meets light? John 1:5 says it can not comprehend it.
We win! confusion caused by darkness is gone cause the dark can not handle light. it has no fellowship with it.
The reason why I'm discouraged and why so many pastor get discouraged is cause we aren't focusing on the Light.
How important it is we keep our eyes on that! cause if we are not focusing on the light then only darkness will be evident.
Praise the Lord for his word!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
When we test all things, do we test ALL things?
So this past week our high school discipleship group studied 1st Thessalonians, the whole book! there's a lot in there, But I was blessed by the last bit of it as it spoke on testing ALL things in our lives.
1Th 5:21 "Test all things; hold fast what is good"
Hold fast what is good, this means to HOLD unto the good. Testing everything does not come easy for me, it's easy for me to judge, but there is a difference and I'm learning this. Judging is to look down and condemn something, testing is to see if it's truly true!
I need to learn to test ALL things in my life, it's hard to. It's convicting but without the Spirit we can't, unless we are testing everything we will not be firm in our faith. It's interesting that we read earlier on in that chapter not to quench the spirit. If we quench we won't be able to discern!
We need the spirit to test all things, is this truly of God? thats what we gotta ask ourselves.
Then the next part of that chapter comes in:
1Th 5:22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Are we abstain from EVERY form of evil? this is by testing we do, we need to be sanctified!
1Th 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God of peace, he will cleanse us! We can't on our own, and we see this in the next and final verse!
1Th 5:24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
He is faithful to do that work, we can't in our flesh, we can't abstain from evil in our flesh without God, without the holy spirit! much to ponder.......
We must keep our eyes above!
1Th 5:21 "Test all things; hold fast what is good"
Hold fast what is good, this means to HOLD unto the good. Testing everything does not come easy for me, it's easy for me to judge, but there is a difference and I'm learning this. Judging is to look down and condemn something, testing is to see if it's truly true!
I need to learn to test ALL things in my life, it's hard to. It's convicting but without the Spirit we can't, unless we are testing everything we will not be firm in our faith. It's interesting that we read earlier on in that chapter not to quench the spirit. If we quench we won't be able to discern!
We need the spirit to test all things, is this truly of God? thats what we gotta ask ourselves.
Then the next part of that chapter comes in:
1Th 5:22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Are we abstain from EVERY form of evil? this is by testing we do, we need to be sanctified!
1Th 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God of peace, he will cleanse us! We can't on our own, and we see this in the next and final verse!
1Th 5:24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
He is faithful to do that work, we can't in our flesh, we can't abstain from evil in our flesh without God, without the holy spirit! much to ponder.......
We must keep our eyes above!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Wow, where has the time gone.......my oh my
Wow, here it is already been almost a month since my last post!
time is flying, ever since I got back from the CC missions conference I have been a continuous time warp!
There is still a lot to process of all we learned at the conference, I was blessed by multiple speakers, the Lord however spoke to me during the worship time and was confirmed by other teachers throughout the conference.
and gave me Isaiah 35:3:
"Strengthen the weak hands, And make firm the feeble knees. "
This is my role for now, to encourage and strengthen those who have gone out from among us. This is my role in missions, I'll admit, it's the not the answer I was looking for but praise the lord, my calling for now was made sure!
At the conference, I felt as though the message for the need for love among the church kept getting spoken! unity! If we don't have love and joy among our own body how can we bring it to a lost and dying world?
If we are focused on eternal things, then how we reach eternal souls?
Besides the teachings, I was blessed by the fellowship and building of friendships with people who are serving both in the states and abroad, the Lord is doing a work around the world and it's exciting to see that even in the Midwest the Lord is wanting to work and use us.
I went away from the week in California with a new prayer list and a new refreshment! I'm both excited and peaceful with what the lord is going to do with
me. I came back with a ton of stuff, most of which are spanish teachings, praise the lord! the spanish church here is growing, and now in Aberdeen, there is a lady who interprets for the spanish members of the Calvary there! Pray for the ministry!
These spanish teachings will go out and hopefully be able to be used as home bible study materials, Praise the Lord! Pray for La fiesta, (Local Mexican restaurant ran by christian manager) their finances are tighter, and therefore it's more stressful, pray the lords will to be done!
Before i close(I have many things yet to do, hopefully I'll post more often)
I wanna share a blog link to a couple who is moving to Kosovo, they were a blessing to me at the conference as I had a chance to spend some time in prayer with them.
and Get to know them and their hearts, pray for them as they head out to share the good news among Muslims! to find out more, and to receive prayer request just visit:
www.ordinaryharry.blogspot.com
Blessings,
Josiah
time is flying, ever since I got back from the CC missions conference I have been a continuous time warp!
There is still a lot to process of all we learned at the conference, I was blessed by multiple speakers, the Lord however spoke to me during the worship time and was confirmed by other teachers throughout the conference.
and gave me Isaiah 35:3:
"Strengthen the weak hands, And make firm the feeble knees. "
This is my role for now, to encourage and strengthen those who have gone out from among us. This is my role in missions, I'll admit, it's the not the answer I was looking for but praise the lord, my calling for now was made sure!
At the conference, I felt as though the message for the need for love among the church kept getting spoken! unity! If we don't have love and joy among our own body how can we bring it to a lost and dying world?
If we are focused on eternal things, then how we reach eternal souls?
Besides the teachings, I was blessed by the fellowship and building of friendships with people who are serving both in the states and abroad, the Lord is doing a work around the world and it's exciting to see that even in the Midwest the Lord is wanting to work and use us.
I went away from the week in California with a new prayer list and a new refreshment! I'm both excited and peaceful with what the lord is going to do with
me. I came back with a ton of stuff, most of which are spanish teachings, praise the lord! the spanish church here is growing, and now in Aberdeen, there is a lady who interprets for the spanish members of the Calvary there! Pray for the ministry!
These spanish teachings will go out and hopefully be able to be used as home bible study materials, Praise the Lord! Pray for La fiesta, (Local Mexican restaurant ran by christian manager) their finances are tighter, and therefore it's more stressful, pray the lords will to be done!
Before i close(I have many things yet to do, hopefully I'll post more often)
I wanna share a blog link to a couple who is moving to Kosovo, they were a blessing to me at the conference as I had a chance to spend some time in prayer with them.
and Get to know them and their hearts, pray for them as they head out to share the good news among Muslims! to find out more, and to receive prayer request just visit:
www.ordinaryharry.blogspot.com
Blessings,
Josiah
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