Southern Kafes

~A little something~

2012-01-30T14:20:00.010-05:00

It's Monday and oh boy how much I have to do this week. I am praying for a good week. While watching the kids this morning, cleaning house and preparing for Bible study tonight I got about a hour this afternoon while the kids where a sleep and I came a cross this video I have not seen in a few years. I am a Mark Lowry and have always enjoyed him on stage and off. Here is a good truth from Mark a little something to start out the week with a God focus mindset. It might be a little long to watch however It's a great reminder that we are second "God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and gave him great pleasure." Ephesians 1:5

~40 Days~

2012-01-29T15:02:00.002-05:00

So we kick off 40 Days In The Word today at church. With great worship, a great word and ended the morning with a campus-wide lunch all to prepare our hearts for what God is going to do in the next 40 days. Week one will start next Sunday and will go on for 40 days of Prayer, Fellowship, Worship, Fasting, Getting into the word and even coming Face to Face with God's Greatness. I can't wait to see what God says during this time of going deep. In other news I am just blown away by how much networking God is doing in my new place of ministry. It's seems I can't even walk into Wal-Mart anymore without being stopped by one of my customers or ministry partners. I have even been blessed to meet some great people who I now attend church with on Sundays that I have met during the week over the past few weeks at work. I do have to say I am very blessed by God for all the things He has given me. Well as it's Sunday and the kick off to 40 days I have to leave you with a song. Here is a song from Passion 2012 many of us have all heard this song many times in church, on the radio however only at passion this year did they take it to the next step and like always once again blow it out the water with Power only the Holy Spirit could give. What a great reminder in this soug that His love is for us all...for all People, Listen to 40,000 People of God Sing with hearts lifted!

In His Grip

Pastor J

~Government Adjustment~

2012-01-27T18:49:00.003-05:00

If you know me and are a daily reader of my blog you will know I am not one to speak much on the government and on politics, however I came a cross this photo today while reading over my daily Facebook feeds. I have to say it's a very strong statement and very powerful.

In other news It was a great end to the week after a nice busy week of work. I am enjoying coming to work to start the day with a morning staff prayer and bible study and end the day with a prayer. It was a great reminder last night when my back was hurting and feeling tired and ready to go home then after all the hard work come to a point right before it all ends to go to God in prayer with my co-workers and leadership team. I have to say even with working in the church world we miss doing that at times. Again what a great reminder to Gods Greatness!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Thy Word~

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

“I am personally convinced that if today’s Christians better understood the Bible’s basic teaching about the Holy Spirit and then invited Him to release His power in their lives each day, they would experience unprecedented joy and personal fulfillment. More than that, our verbal and non-verbal witness for Jesus Christ would sweep the world.” -Dr. Bill Bright

Holy Spirit Come...

2012-01-25T07:32:00.000-05:00

A few times last week and a few times this week the topic has come up on The Baptism of the Holy Spirit and what is it and what does it mean. It's not part of the Baptist doctrine and many churches seem to hid the fact that The Holy Spirit is alive and well... I dislike when you hear people and churches and even pastors at times focus on the Father and The Son and they skip "It". Hello the Holy Spirit is not a "It". Working for many years in baptist churches you see one of the biggest losses most of them all have is the Holy Spirit. Not just in the baptist churches but even others. I could say a lot about the Holy Spirit and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit however I would rather keep this as a blog post and not a book but over I do have to say CBN has nailed it in a post they did some few months back and I have to give then my hat on preparing this great topic in a understandable way for others. http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/cbnteachingsheets/Gifts_of_the_Spirit.aspx

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Day of Rest? Yeah Right!

2012-01-24T15:23:00.003-05:00

I have to say I am enjoying my day off. However No nap, no rest and no sitting around watching the planes fly by. Today I am Daddy, Doctor, Parent, Husband, Zookeeper, Cleaner, Barber, Student, Writer, Listener and Cook. However I am enjoying it all but I am not liking my back hurting. Super Dad once again lives... at least today! :)

~Book Highlight~

2012-01-23T21:35:00.006-05:00

"Not a Fan" by Pastor Kyle Idleman is a great book to look into if you have not gotten it yet or if you are looking for a new read. Think of this.. If Jesuswere to sit down with you right now and have a DTR (Define the Relationship) conversation, how would you respond? Are you truly his follower or just a fan—or perhaps someone who doesn't even care about the difference? Not a Fan invites you to make Jesus not merely the object of your admiration, but the very center of your life. This book will really looking into your heart. I think it's great not just for the church goer but even someone in leadership and even church pastors to take a look at. Take a foot ball game. You have Players and then you have Fans. The fan doesn't always know whats going on behind the scenes and off the field. Fans just sit there and clap and cheer when goo things happen and cry and fuss when the bad comes. But never really getting into the heart of what go behind the game and noticing the little things that are going on. This book will make anyone think and re-look at are they a fan for Christ or are they a player for Christ. Saddly you can't be both. Here is the BookDescription:

Are you a follower of Jesus? Don’t answer too quickly. In fact, you may want to read this book before you answer at all. Consider it a “Define the Relationship” conversation to determine exactly where you stand. You may indeed be a passionate, fully devoted follower of Jesus. Or, you may be just a fan who admires Jesus but isn’t ready to let him cramp your style. Then again, maybe you’re not into Jesus, period. In any case, don’t take the question—Are you a follower of Jesus?—lightly. Some people don’t know what they’ve said yes to and other people don’t realize what they’ve said no to, says Pastor Kyle Idleman. But Jesus is ready to clearly define the relationship he wants with his followers. Not a Fan calls you to consider the demands and rewards of being a true disciple. With frankness sprinkled with humor, Idleman invites you to live the way Jesus lived, love the way he loved, pray the way he prayed, and never give up living for the One who gave his all for you.

What a great question Are you a True disciple... I think many people will find that they are just fans of the idea of Christ and not willing to get in the game and take a beating for Christ. For those who are not info reading check out the short movie on the book or even get involved in a small group bible study of "Not a Fan".

~Happy Sunday~

2012-01-22T14:18:00.004-05:00

I really enjoyed the worship this morning at NorthPoint. Eddie did a great job on leading in a time of open heated worship. He is a great "Lead Worshiper". Emily even enjoyed it as well. Andy spoke on Trading Up. It was a shame that Debbie is sick however I hope next week all will be well and we can return to Grace for a great time of worship and a good word from Pastor Charlie. In other news the sink is now fixed and PTL we have running water again in the kitchen. I hope to be able to get some reading in today as I am reading one of Parry Stones books that I am really enjoying. He's has a lot of good books out there however I just don't have a lot time or funds to pick any more up other then what I have on hand. I found the other day one of Watchman Nee' s book that I do didn't know he had. It's on my list of books to pick up. Speaking of books and with me getting back into reading I think it's due to working around books most of the day.. LoL I am trying to see if a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet would be best for what I am looking for and need. I am taking the next few months to do some research on which one would be best, better price, specs and even if there is anything coming out in the next few months that would be better then both. Well It's Sunday and time to spend time with family and get some things done before a very busy week of work.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Let the River Flow~

2012-01-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

So I get a phone call friday at the office from Debbie stating the kitchen sink blow up.... LOL only one can think of what in the world happen that made the sink "blow up". So I got off early to head home to see the guys working on the sink and after 3 to 4 hours later nothing was fixed however I am told there is a real plumber coming today to fix it. At least I hope?!?! It's 11:00AM and I have yet seen anyone come as I was told they would be here around 10:00AM?!?! Well I guess we wait and see. It is hard to live life with two kids and an house full of 6 and try to get life done, cook food and keep the place clean. Other then all that Friday was a great day I was to work later on Friday however after having to come home my day was cut by a hour short or so. However I will make it all up on Monday Morning. I am so tired but know that there is much in the house to get done. for starters working in the library trying to get my book in order and setting it up as more of a library/guess room. Maybe with a pull-out sleeper or something a long that line. Oh well off to see what I can get done today. Happy nice Saturday!!!!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Action in Savannah~

2012-01-20T22:45:00.000-05:00

While on lunch today I saw a cop car flying the parking space next to me... Then number 2 cop car comes flying in behind me. Before long a Police Van pulls up and in less then 3 minutes there was a total of 8 cop cars about 10 officers all outside my truck. However they it was not me nor my truck they where looking for. It was the red 4 door car a cross the parking space from me. While eating my roast beef sandwich and watching the action out my window I noticed them pulling a total of 3 while bottles and one small baggie out of the red car. I guess........ Drugs! After about 20 minutes of them all around the car, The OIC (Officer In Charge) typing on a cool looking toughbook PC. a Tow truck pulled up and took the car off. It was some lunch break however I enjoyed my roast beefsandwich. :) Oh you never know what you are going to see in Savannah... You got to love it. Never a boring day in the City.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Blog Post 403~

2012-01-19T07:07:00.000-05:00

Today marks the 403th Blog post... Who would think I would have so many post.. If I was a good blogger and posted on everyday of the year from the start of this site I am sure I would have a few 100 more. Well Happy 403!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Road Trip~

2012-01-18T19:55:00.003-05:00

I had a great drive today to heading to a meeting in Evans,GA today. It was a great time to spend with God just me, myself and the Holy God for a whole two hours spending thinking, in prayer and giving thanks for all He has done over the past year. With all the things that has gone on over the past few weeks and being hurt by people and dealing with the stress of it all it was great to get my eye on Christ and get a refreashing start to this new chapter in my life. The meeting I had to go to went great and I did the mission at hand. That I am thankful for. It was also a great ride back. I got to enjoy starting my new audio book by Perry Stone, Purging Your House, Pruning Your Family Tree. Just the part I heard I was blown away at the great detail he goes into his book. I am ready liking it and even wished I had more miles to go so I could listen to it more. However I was running out of gas so was not able to go any more. But I will listen to more later in the morning and even some tonight before bed. Anyway What a great day and it ended a great day with a great time tonight at Church, Debbie had a great time at small group and Emily had a blast! I am so glade we found a loving church to be a part of at this time in our lives.

Feelng loved but Christ,

IN His Grip,

Pastor J

Failing Love Vs. God's Love!

2012-01-17T22:08:00.003-05:00

Today I am reminded that people will fail you and it's sad but even churches will fail you too. In Romans it's written "...As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. In Romans 12 the bible says "...Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” I am thankful for a loving God but I am also thankful for a just God. It's hard to see ones say they love you and care for you then brake every part of your heart and look you in the face with a smile that is so fake. Today I learned even the church will fail you but God love still stands. It's the one thing that remains! Today I look past the hurt and keep my eyes on what matter in life and that is Christ! All I can do is Pray and Pray that they find the true love of God. The day is near and the time is short and when that time comes it will be late. Praise the Lord! I am set free from brokenss and set free from this world!! One of the best books written today is called Faking Church here is what they say about it. "Open the door to any church in America and you'll find once-enthusiastic Christians just going through the motions. Some have even abandoned the Body. Dan Schaeffer diagnoses this spiritual defection as a subtle heart issue: If our primary motivation for Christian service has become approval from others, we're on the road to faking church. Schaeffer deftly explores the common traps that seduce believers into becoming spiritual fakes and prescribes ways to adjust our fellowship and our lives so that the Holy Spirit can create in us a genuine servant's heart. Timely and provocative, Faking Church has the power to transform the Body. Get real with God by cutting through soul-destroying distortions, and choose to serve for His approval only. This book can change you." and Yes this book can change you and I pray it will reach many people who are just going through the motions. One of the key things this book highlights is It's all a heart issue! and I have to say Dan Schaeffer hit it on the nail when saying it all starts in the heart.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Busy Bees~

2012-01-16T22:22:00.002-05:00

What a very busy day however a good day today at work. Spoke to alot of church leaders today about many media ministry things.. It seems many church in the area are trying to get updated into all the new things from media shout to videos to office software and to online membership programs and even online bibles. A good but busy day. I am thankful that I am so near debbie office as we where able to meet up today to get gas in both cars today and for the rest of the week we will car pool to save on gas and miles.

~Sunday~

2012-01-15T15:01:00.000-05:00

Enjoyed a great refreashing time of worship today... I am thankful today for many things but more then anything my family and the time I have with them.

~Traffic~

2012-01-13T20:45:00.002-05:00

I have so missed the perks of living in the city. I am walking distance to just about everything I would need right out side my office. One on the biggest things I have missed is all the people. I am so much of a people person so I like seeing and meeting new people. I think I have been in the woods way to long. I have noticed over the past few years I dress has go way down and I most of my cloths are getting out dated. I truck well It's so not a city car and the gas on the thing is killing me. It's nice to be working in a area where I can find a Starbucks or Cafe on every corner. I do have to say I so don't miss the city traffic however I didn't mind it too bad today as it took me a little less then a hour to get home. I think that is great. It's not Greenville or even Nashville where you wait and wait and wait. Another thing I think I will enjoy over all is Debbie's Office is right down the street from mine and I think that cool. God really lined things up in a big way there. She will be getting a company car so will not need to use ours however till then on the days we go in at the same time we can car pull and save on gas. One of the This I have started praying over is cars as over the next month or so I start looking for a new car. Something with good MPG, that can fit two car seats in it and to be honest that fits the "City Life". I have missed my Nissans I have owned in the past. I don't know what we will get but I would like something that is like a small SUV or something like that. Sporty and something that will last us for a good while. You never know when you look for a used but newer car but it will work out. God is good. I am ready to pass out now and I do have to go to work in the morning for a few hours to get ready for next week!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Resignation Letter Given~

2012-01-12T11:59:00.005-05:00

Here is a copy of my resignation letter to Pineora:

Given Sunday January 8th 2012

Dear Church Family,

“The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the Lord.” Every time I read this passage from Psalm 37:23 I’m reminded that my life is not my own. I belong to God. Debra and the children belong to God as well. We’ve committed both our individual lives and our marriage to His calling and purpose. We’ve resolved to travel together down the path that He has set before us as a family. We’ve entrusted our steps to Him.

It was God’s leading that brought us to Pineora in June of 2011. It was His plan for us to lead in the Student Ministry of Pineora. He gave us a passion for the students and over the last few months we’ve developed a love for each and every one of them. The blessings of God have been abundant and you have made this journey wonderful. I’m convinced that our days here have been ordained by the Lord in the short time we have been ministering with you.

After many weeks of prayer and Godly counsel Debbie and I are convinced that God is asking us to travel down a new path, a path that will lead us away from Pineora. This decision is a difficult one we’ve had to make however I feel it is best to part our ways.

In our hearts we never thought this day would come. I guess that’s why God has reminded us lately of Proverbs 16:9. “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” We’ve served here with the mindset that we would be here for many years. However, the Lord has been stirring our hearts and we can say with full certainty that our time here has come to an end.

Today, January 8, 2012, I am officially resigning as your Pastor of Student Ministries with the full intent to provide transitional leadership for the next few weeks. Our last Sunday will be January 22, 2012.

God directs our steps and promises not to leave us nor forsake us. I’m confident that if God is leading us on to something new and wonderful then the same is true for all of Pineora. God will not take from one at the expense of another. If God is preparing to bless Debbie and I with a new work and ministry then He’s preparing to bless Pineora with a new Student Pastor. We really believe that your best days are yet ahead..

Respectfully submitted with love for all you.

In His Grip,

Rev. Jonathan D. Rogers

It's sad to see Satan tear a church down however I have faith in Christ and that He can win the fight if they let Him. The key word being "If". Don't get me wrong I have a love for many people within the church and am Thankful God led Debbie and I here to minister to the Students. I mean them well and we all have to same mission in life to lead the lost to Christ. I hope and pray we will keep the relationships we have built over the past 7 months. I know God is doing a great work in our lives and as well as still doing a work at Pineora. As I stated last night in my sermon. You can't have a blessing without being broken and it maybe just that time of brokenness for them. I pray the best for them all and may the Lord be the center of it all!

Now As we end that chapter in life we start a new chapter in life and I am over joyed by what he is going to do.

As Always In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Unhappy People~

2012-01-11T23:07:00.000-05:00

Sometimes in life we face people who are unhappy. They walk down the path of life unhappy with everything in life. They lack joy in their life and even lack the Love of God. It hurts me to see these kind of people not that they try to hurt others or even myself but they make the choice to live in that darkness. Sometimes they have lived there so long they don't know anything different or even that there is more to life then that black and unhappy place they live. It gets me how those unhappy people try to tear others down. Makes me mad but even more then mad it makes me feel sorry for them. I might lack a lot of things in life however I don't lack joy, peace, love and even more the Love of GOD! I have great things to be happy for and I stand full of the Love of God. Why because there is more of God to go around! I think unhappy people put God in a box and give Him nothing but want everything from Him. It's even more sad to see those unhappy people in the church. Some even call themselves leaders and teachers, How can they teach to Word of God if they can't live the Word of God. Oh how sad it is.... We live in a fallen world of unhappy people. One day I hope and pray those unhappy people will find joy and love. And until that time I make a choice to leave them alone and stay away from their unhappiness. May God brake them! May He bless them and may He lead them His way!

In His Grip With Joy,

Pastor J

~A Page is Turned~

2012-01-10T19:56:00.007-05:00

Many people starting to hear the news that I have been hinting around about for the last few weeks. It's official as of this past weekend however I am guessing the larger announcement may not be made until this weekend. Over the the past many weeks and even month Debbie and I have been praying about what's next in our lives. Back in November we felt God calling us to a new ministry in our area. So with much prayer and seeking His face over that time. God has opened doors for us in great ways over the past two weeks. God has been doing a great work in our lives and it has come that He is driving us to a place of much networking, new ministry outreach and even to the next chapter in our lives. Many times over the years God has turned the page of life and started a new life for us. So what does all this mean. Well it mean just that we start a new chapter in our lives. I officially resigned from Pineora (PBC) Sunday Jan 8' 2012 as their Pastor of Students. And I will be ending my next few weeks with the students being my last day on Sunday Jan 22' 2012. This has not been anything new or even a shock to what God is doing in our lives. This has been something that we have been praying over for a while now and been in fellowship with some of our past pastors and leadership who have given us wisdom on this calling.

With all that said what does this mean for our next chapter of life here in Guyton, GA.

We will be staying where we are and will not be moving anywhere - God has been called us to this area and we love it here. We feel over the next few months and year God will be doing a great work in us and will be ministering to the people of this area.

God has blessed Debbie with a great job in Savannah, GA and I am just blown away at what He has opened for her. Great paying job, benefits, and even a company van.

As far as myself God has also blown me away by blessing me with a great ministry job that is two-fold. I will be working with Lifeway Resources out of the Savannah GA. I will be working both in the store as the Assistant Manager as well as working in and over the church consulting deportment for this area, again great pay, benefits and networking. God has even lined up great in home childcare for both Emily and Ethan over the past week and I just can't wait to see what more God is going to do in our lives this year. When God says go we go! This is a great step for me, not just as this will be the most Debbie and I have ever made, but will be a great way for me to network and enjoy doing what I do. Don't get me wrong I love student ministry however God has been working in my heart of the past few months that my role in student ministry is coming to an end. This is not an end to my ministry but just the next chapter for my ministry. 11 years of full-time student ministry now to the next 11 years of my new ministry God is laying out in my life. May it be getting deeper into the Church Consulting or even into planting a new Church in the area. Thank you Lord providing great things!!!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Monday!!! Monday!!!

2012-01-09T22:28:00.007-05:00

What a great Monday it has turned out to be. I have to say God is doing a great work in our lives right now and this seems to a time of Him raining down blessings on us. I have to stop and give thanks to Him for all the things He is doing even the little things. But again I also have to stop and thank Him for the times He isn't raining blessings down on us as well. Why are have a choice to say yes in the good things as well as the bad. I have really been enjoying our new study we are doing during Cell Group where we are looking at our attitude and we can come to him with a mind of complaining all the time or a mind of thanksgiving and giving Him thanks for the things we do have. I have to say over the past few years we have not always had the best years the greatest times in life and even have had to face a lot of hurt in life. However I have come to the fact that God is bigger then anything and the class can be half empty or if can be half full. How are we going to look at it. My prayer this year is that I can change my attitude and keep the mind that the class is half full and in Christ I can do all things!

"Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the Lord. and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the Lord burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. When the people cried our to Moses, he prayed th the Lord and the fire died down. So that place was called Tarerah, because fire from the Lord had burned among them." -Numbers 11:1-3

In His Grip,

-Pastor J

~SONday~

2012-01-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

A chapter in my life is about to close but a new one is about to open

I give thanks to God!
Details soon...

~Tour De Effingham~

2012-01-07T20:44:00.004-05:00

What a great but long day! Enjoyed a lot of fun and fellowship all during the day and it ended with spending some time with some great friends at dinner. God is good! Can't wait for God to work this Sunday there are a lot of things instore for it and it may be a bittersweet Sunday for us but we know God has some great things He is going to do in Debbie and I's life. I will share a lot more in detail into what God is doing in our family later in the week. Now off to bed!

“The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the Lord.”

In His Grip,
Pastor J

God Spoke!

2012-01-06T20:02:00.000-05:00

Wow God has doing some powerful things today.... I don't know what to say.. The Power of God is so powerful it leaves me with nothing to say! Just WOW I will share more later next week. Thank you Jesus for what you do. Thank you

WOW...

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~God's Timing~

2012-01-05T22:10:00.003-05:00

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." -James 1:5-6

~Going Deeper~ Part 8

2012-01-04T09:50:00.000-05:00

Your Ministries Ignore People Outside the Church!

This excerpt from Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson’s recent book Rework keeps reverberating in my mind:
When you stick with your current customers come hell or high water, you wind up cutting yourself off from new ones. Your product or service becomes so tailored to your current customers that it stops appealing to fresh blood. And that’s how your company starts to die.
That’s consistent with one of the key attributes of churches in decline. When churches become inward-focused and start making decisions about ministry to keep people rather than reach people, they also start to die.
In Luke 15:4, Jesus said it this way:
If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it?
Why do you think some churches slip into the mode where they’re so focused on keeping people that they neglect trying to reach people who are outside the faith? As I was reading the Bible, I stumbled upon 1 Corinthians 10:33:
I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. 24
Fascinating perspective, isn’t it? Typically, we don’t operate like that. We put personal conviction or preferences ahead of what may be best for others. Think about it . . .
• It isn’t worship if the music is too loud or too fast or the wrong genre.
• It isn’t discipleship if the content is delivered in a home or online instead of in a classroom.
• It isn’t missions if we help a neighbor who has wealth instead of focusing on people who live in poverty.
• The message is good if it calls out the sin of other people, but we’re offended when it’s our sin.
• Rather than embracing the ministries that are impacting the most people, we want the church to embrace our personal projects and passions.
• We’re more inclined to give when we can direct how the money is used.
Crazy! You’d think we’d be intentional about living out our faith to do what’s best for others. Instead, we make ministry decisions to try to keep people happy. That’s how we end up with churches full of happy Christians. That’s why churches stop growing. We start doing church for us instead of trying to impact the lives of people outside our walls.
The reality is that if we’re going to reach people outside the church and outside the faith, we’re going to have to be uncomfortable. And, once we figure out what’s best for others today, it’ll be different tomorrow. That will involve change. That means we’ll have to get uncomfortable again.
Let’s face it. It’s a lot easier doing ministry when our only goal is to keep people happy. Doing what’s best for others makes life and ministry messy. We have to be willing to rock the boat. We have to be willing to watch people who don’t have a "1 Corinthians 10:33" mindset leave the church.
When I stop doing what’s best for me and focus on what’s best for others, though, that’s when real life-change happens. It’s worth making "happy Christians" mad so that many may be saved.
People who walk through the doors of our church every Sunday may look okay on the outside, but many are dealing with some tough stuff on the inside. Addictions. Marriages collapsing. Kids heading in a wrong direction. Medical challenges. Financial crisis. Lack of purpose. Let me challenge you with these thoughts:
• When you teach on "felt needs," you aren’t watering down the message. You are helping people find forgiveness and healing and a new direction for their life. It’s easy to preach through the Bible. It’s much harder to preach to hurting people who need to understand how the Bible applies to their lives.
• When the person sitting beside you is dealing with a marriage crisis that’s leading to a crisis of faith, it makes your preferences of music and volume seem pretty insignificant.
• When you neglect the mission field in your neighborhood because of your sole desire to help people across the ocean, I wonder if you’re just choosing the path of least resistance.
• When you choose to focus on your theological differences at the expense of helping people find healing and hope, could it be that you haven’t spent enough time living out your faith because you’re too busy defending your faith?
I’ve looked in people’s eyes and heard many stories. They are the real stories of real people experiencing real pain. Let’s not forget why we do what we do.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 7

2012-01-03T12:47:00.000-05:00

You Fail to Equip God’s People!

It’s easy to get caught in the trap of growing your staff without proportionately cultivating your volunteer assets. There are certain common refrains I hear as I’m talking with growing churches across the country. This is one of them—we fail to equip God’s people to do the work of God.
I’ve heard many leaders in recent months acknowledge that they’re trying to shift the ministry to volunteers rather than continuing to hire more staff. Likely, the economic challenges have precipitated that shift in strategy. Whatever the case, I think it’s a good thing.
Eric Geiger offered this thought as it relates to engaging volunteers in ministry. He explains how pastors and other paid staff may actually be hampering spiritual growth by holding on to ministry:
People who are gifted by God and called to serve Him are put on the bench as they watch the professional ministers make the ministry happen. Instead of fostering a serving posture among believers, this kind of "ministry" develops consumers. By keeping ministry from the majority of the people, they are taught to be moochers and consumers of the faith rather than participators and contributors. As their spiritual gifts go underutilized, they miss the joy of experiencing Christ by serving others.
Wondering where your church stands on this topic? Do a little math. Take the number of people who volunteer somewhere in ministry at any given time each month. Divide that by the total number of students and adults at your church. That’ll give you a percentage. Here’s my suggestion:
• If the percentage of students and adults serving is over 45 percent, you are in a healthy range for engaging volunteers in ministry.
• If you are in the 30- to 45-percent range, you’re doing okay but there’s room for improvement.22
• If you are under 30 percent, you need a volunteer strategy adjustment.

Now, I can hear the critics and skeptics already. They’re probably saying, "The larger a church gets, the more likely they are to have a big staff team handling the ministry of the church." It might surprise you to learn I see the direct opposite. For whatever reason, smaller churches I work with have a tendency to rely on the pastors and paid staff to carry the ministry load.
Many churches have a vision for getting more people to volunteer and serve in the ministry. Fewer churches actually make it happen. One of the reasons is because they lean on staff to do ministry.
With that in mind, Lifepoint Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia, needs to be on your radar. They’ve grown by over 50 percent in the last twelve months. But that’s not what’s most unique about this ministry.
What’s unique about Lifepoint is their commitment to giving ministry away to volunteers. They have several strategies for making that happen, but let me highlight the most obvious one—they don’t hire staff to do ministry.
Of all the churches I’ve worked with over the last couple of years, Lifepoint has the lowest staff-to-attendance ratio. They only have 1 full-time equivalent staff member (that includes all staff, not just ministry staff) for every 150 people in attendance. Only about 35 percent of their budget is spent on staff expenses.
Because they have very few staff, they are forced to empower volunteers to do the ministry. Almost 70 percent of their adults volunteer. That’s the highest percentage of adults volunteering of all the churches I’ve worked with.
So, if you’re following at home: Lifepoint has the record for the fewest staff compared to attendance, and they also broke the record for the most people volunteering. Coincidence? I don’t think so.
This is another simple reminder that you can have a strong vision, but it’s good systems and strategies that shift behaviors. This is just one example of that principle.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 6

2012-01-02T10:30:00.001-05:00

You Focus on Activities Instead of Outcomes!

While many church leaders are full of vision and passion, they lack an effective strategy to accomplish their mission. That leads to a feeling of disorganization, and ultimately they feel stuck. When this happens, you’ll spend more time focused on activities instead of outcomes. How do you know you’re focused on activities? When you find yourself focusing on bigger versus better.
Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A, said, "when we get better the customer will force us to get bigger!" In the church world, this means that we must take time to improve what we do, not just come up with bigger versions of what’s mediocre. Instead of trying to outdo your last event, set design, or sermon illustration, get together with your team and improve the little things.
You’ve got too many ideas and too little action. It’s more fun for leaders to brainstorm and dream, but that’s not the hard work of the ministry. Real effectiveness comes when we organize volunteers around a mission, create processes to follow up with guests and givers, and lead our staff with intentionality and intensity. Visionary leaders often make the mistake of thinking that their church can grow on vision. While vision is helpful and necessary, getting organized may have more long-term positive effects.
At some point, you have to just do the hard work and stick with it. A quote from Calvin Coolridge noted in the program at his memorial service in 1933 described it this way:
Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.
Are you distracted? As a church leader, there are many things that you can do. Even good opportunities can sidetrack us from doing what matters most. Instead of chasing new opportunities, go to work on your worship services, children’s ministry, and community service. Keep your eye on the ball. Don’t let too many new ministry opportunities dilute your core purpose.
Stop and ask if the activities on your schedule contribute to, or support, your core values and mission. If you don’t know your core values and mission, you’ve discovered one of your most glaring weaknesses!

In His Grip,
Pastor J

Happy New Years!

2012-01-01T19:21:00.000-05:00

Happy New Years 2012!!!

May you have a safe and blessed year.

Monday we will get back to our "Going Deeper"

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 5

2011-12-31T10:03:00.000-05:00

You Worship Your Past Success!

It’s easy to get caught in the trap when you stop seeing yourself as responsible or accountable for the ministry results you produce. I read a fascinating article from Forbes about how General Motors destroyed its Saturn division. Among other things, David Hanna, the author of the article, suggested:
Saturn, a GM company that had great promise in the early 1990s, ultimately failed because senior GM leaders couldn’t see the benefits of new ways of doing things and a new kind of organizational culture.
We’re all familiar with the demise of GM, so this is a very vivid image of what can happen when an organization becomes so stuck in its traditional approach of doing things that the world passes it by. Ultimately, when organizations stick to "the way we do it," the safe approach of avoiding innovation and change becomes the riskiest approach.
Hanna goes on to explain:
There were just two underlying forces behind Saturn’s demise: GM’s insistence on managing all its divisions centrally with a tight fist, and the demand by leadership at both GM and the UAW that Saturn get in line with traditional ways of doing things.
That highlights one of the biggest challenges in leadership. Leaders have to choose between control and innovation. You can’t have both. You can define the desired outcomes. You can create the boundaries, but you can’t expect your team to be creative, innovative, or artistic if you try to control every element of the execution. If you must have full control, you just need to know that you are also choosing to shut down new ideas and innovations in your organization.18
Unfortunately, the church is notorious for religiously keeping things the way they’ve always been but hoping we’ll somehow achieve different results. Avoiding new approaches. Top-down, centralized leadership. Preserving the traditional ways of doing things. Sound familiar?
It’s a great reminder that our past successes can be one of the greatest contributing factors to our future demise. GM used to have a winning formula. It worked in previous generations. Recently, though, it’s not been working so well.
They may be coming out with some new, innovative automobiles now, but it wasn’t too long ago that it seemed GM still wanted to make cars as though it were 1979 while expecting to get the same results. By sticking with that approach, they dropped from 45 percent of the market share thirty years ago to hovering around 20 percent today. In fact, back in 2008, Toyota ended GM’s seventy-seven–year reign as the world’s largest automaker.
It’s easy to look at churches that might still be "driving the Chevy Impala" and easily draw conclusions for why they are in decline. Before you do that, though, I think it’s good to remember that GM was once a very successful company. When you experience success, it’s tough to let go. You want to control the formula because it works. You are reticent to try new approaches. The only problem is that eventually the world around us is going to change.
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 4

2011-12-30T09:36:00.000-05:00

Your Structure Inhibits Growth!

It’s easy to get caught in the trap when your organizational structure and internal processes haven’t evolved and are largely the same as they were three or five years ago. Or sometimes you get stuck when your internal processes are too confusing to navigate and stifle new ideas rather than spur innovation.
One of my favorite blogs to monitor is Accidental Creative. Todd Henry wrote a brilliant article about the danger of implementing permanent solutions to temporary problems. This quote grabbed my attention:
The more structures we have to navigate in order to do our work, the more difficult it is to do our best work. When we are required to resolve the dissonance of complex systems, reporting relationships, and accountability structures just in order to get our objectives and check off our direction, we will begin to lose our drive to do brilliant work. Over time, this complexity only pulls entire organizations toward systematic mediocrity.
One of the attributes of a church in decline is a complex structure. The natural tendency of organizations is to add complexity to their structure and systems. The longer an organization exists, the more complex it typically gets. (Think government, big business, denominations . . . and older churches.)
One of the reasons I think new church plants are so effective reaching new people is because they are typically very lean. The structure is simple. The ministry strategy is very focused. The mission is clear. Then, as the church ages, the ministry strategy gets more complex as multiple new programs and events get layered on. Eventually growth slows or plateaus as the complexity increases. Ironically, then, our solution, oftentimes, is to create new structure or systems or rules to fix the problem.
• If there’s a problem, our natural tendency is never to do less—we always try something new.
• If there’s a problem, our natural tendency is to increase controls—we think people are the problem, and we implement rules and policies to make sure they get it right.
• What if the solution to the problem is fewer controls? What if the fix is less complexity?
Are you willing to get focused and lean again? Are you willing to attack complex structure and rules?

Hummmmm... Thinking....
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 3

2011-12-29T10:24:00.000-05:00

You Blame Outsiders and External Factors
We live in a culture where no one is responsible for anything that happens to them. If you don’t believe me, invest a couple of hours watching one of the multitude of judge shows on television.
It’s amazing that people instigate litigation as a result of something that happened because of a decision they made. On television, blaming others is entertainment. In the church, it’s tragedy.
There is a tendency among church leaders to blame their ineffectiveness on the changing community, the struggling economy, or the big church that obviously watered down its message in order to reach people who are interested only in being entertained. Staff meetings must look a lot like the talks that take place every fall in the locker room of the Chicago Cubs: "This was going to be our year, but the other teams got hot, our star player got hurt, and the wind was blowing in more than out." Maybe it’s time to man-up and say, "We didn’t get the job done, and we’ve got to figure out a new approach."
I’m amazed at the "new" ideas that come from some Christian organizations that experienced their best years in the ’60s and ’70s. If you look closely, those new ideas look a lot like old ideas with new packaging. They are hoping to recapture their past glory by repositioning their past products. Good luck with that!
The problem, according to the organization’s leaders, is the increase in competition. In other words, if people didn’t have so many options, they’d be perfectly fine buying subpar products. Victims, huh?
Victim-thinking will only lead to bitterness and competition. Leaders who blame outsiders and external factors actually are confessing their own failure to think creatively and inspire their team. Churches in their leisure suits are victims of the changing taste in clothing. When the world returns to thinking the way they thought forty years ago, they’ll be dressed for success. Until then, they’ll look sadly out of place!

What a great point today!
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 2

2011-12-28T11:16:00.001-05:00

You Are Unclear About Your Vision and Mission
A church without a clearly articulated vision is a church that’s in danger. Vision is to the church what headlights are to a car in the dark. You can’t go very far very safely without them. The funny thing is there are lots of churches with vision statements, but I don’t think there are very many churches that really have a vision statement that clarifies who they are as an organization. Among other things, a solid vision:
• Clarifies the purpose of the organization
• Pursues a preferred future
• Inspires people to engage
• Makes it easier to define what the organization won’t do
Even with that, you may be wondering whether or not your organization has clearly defined and communicated its vision. Here are two surefire ways to know whether or not you’ve accomplished the goal:
A clear vision that is properly communicated will rally people. People will look at the present situation and agree together that there’s a better future that must be pursued. People will give their time, energy, prayer, financial resources, talents, and gifts to help accomplish that vision. Lots of people will do that. If people aren’t attracted to your church, your vision either isn’t strong enough or it hasn’t been communicated clearly.
A clear vision that is properly communicated will repel people. Think of the most successful businesses or churches—Apple, Starbucks, Wal-Mart, Willow Creek, Saddleback, Billy Graham, etc. Each of these businesses or ministries have experienced huge success. If you were to Google the names of each of these organizations and the word "haters," you’ll also find there are plenty of people who consider these organizations evil. Clarifying your vision will help some people determine they don’t want to be a part of your cause. (And, don’t be surprised if some attack.) If people aren’t leaving your church, your vision either isn’t strong enough or it hasn’t been communicated clearly. I want to challenge you to think about the purpose of your ministry. Does it rally people to your cause? And, does it repel some people? Of course, a healthy vision worth pursuing must attract many more people than it turns away; however, a strong vision will always help some people determine, "That’s not for me."
If your sense is that you have a vision that makes everyone happy, you don’t have a strong vision.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Going Deeper~ Part 1

2011-12-27T09:03:00.001-05:00

Over the next 8 days I want to go into a little more detail about the 8 reason churches get stuck. Aswe start to plan, pray and put down our visions and dreams for the next year I want to look into even deeper on the things that keep Chuches and ministries to the level Christ wills for them. Today lets look a little deeper into "You Lack a Leadership Empowerment Plan".

Outreach magazine interviewed Brad Abare and Phil Cooke about personality-driven churches. Here’s a paraphrase of the list of warning signs that they identified in the interview:
• The pastor doesn’t go on a vacation for any significant length of time. And, when he does, it isn’t announced.
• When the pastor doesn’t preach, the attendance drops.
• There’s an unspoken fear that if something happened to the pastor, the church would be in trouble.
• The pastor is unwilling to listen to and consult other team members.
• The staff and volunteers are there to carry out the directions of the pastor.
• There’s no succession plan in place; therefore, leadership development isn’t happening.

So, what other options are there? After all, aren’t we supposed to create pastoral rock stars who roam from place to place with an entourage of iPhone-toting handlers? I hate to break it to you, but . . . no. That’s not the point.

Real leaders cast vision and train the next generation of leaders. Real leaders empower people to lead, refuse to step in at the last minute, and provide coaching and encouragement along the way. (this point I have been teaching for years in my Jonathan David Ministries)
I’m still a big proponent of clear vision in churches. Clear vision leads to unified effort that results in ministry impact. A clear vision also provides a lot of freedom for people to be empowered to be who God created them to be. I’ve heard it described as freedom within a framework. That’s essentially a picture of the Christian faith. There’s actually more freedom for us if we stay within God’s designed framework. We see this reflected in Paul’s writings on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 as well. Each believer is given one or more gifts. Paul uses the human body as a metaphor to express how the various parts of the body of Christ are indispensable. In other words, we have failed as leaders in the church if we do not embrace 10
the unique gift-mix that God designed. And we won’t fully know the power and impact of the local church until people are empowered to be the people God wired them up to be.
We aren’t telling them what to do to accomplish the vision. We are helping them discover their gifts and freeing them to use them to fulfill the vision. It’s not delegation. With delegation, I’m still responsible. It’s empowerment. Someone else is responsible, but as a leader I still hold them accountable. At a recent meeting with a church staff, one of the members asked My dear friend Tony about leadership growth. With him having worked with churches of various sizes between 100 people and more than 10,000, they wanted to know how leaders change to grow with organizations. Here’s what he summarized with a little bit more detail. Some of this reflects his own experiences in the churches he has served in. Some of it reflects the conversations he's had with leaders in other churches. on a side note I think this would be a great class to tech or even a great sermon to work on... who knows! :)
Lead by Example. This is the type of leadership that is required when new ministries launch. During this season, leaders have to do most of the work themselves. That happens out of necessity because no one else is around. It also happens to establish a foundation for the future. "Leading by doing" gives leaders the opportunity to shape the mission, vision, values, and strategy of their churches. These folks may not necessarily be gifted as leaders, but they are in a positional leadership role. They are the "leaders of tens." Ministries with this style of leadership can grow to about one hundred people.
Lead Other People. During this season, leaders recruit other people to join their ministry team. Rather than doing all the work on their own, leaders begin to delegate tasks and responsibilities to other people. The leaders still own the responsibility for making things happen, they’re just including other people in the effort. These are the "leaders of fifties." Ministries can grow to several hundred people with this style of leadership.
Lead Other Leaders. This is when a transition happens, where leaders begin to empower other leaders. Instead of a hands-on role where they’re on top of all the tasks, they shift to a role where they’re really more concerned about leading, caring for, and raising up other leaders. They don’t give up responsibility for the outcome, but they begin to release team building, decision-making, and execution to other people. These are the "leaders of hundreds." Ministries can grow to several thousand people with this style of leadership.
Lead by Vision. At some point, there are leaders who may continue to embrace functional leadership of specific areas of ministry, but their focus is really on the overall health of the church. Rather than a ministry-specific focus, they have a global perspective that encompasses every aspect of the organization. These folks are leading other leaders, but they also have influence that reaches beyond their direct reports. They are coming alongside the senior leader to champion the vision that God has given the 11 church. These are the "leaders of thousands." Ministries can grow to tens of thousands of people with this style of leadership.
By the way, all of these approaches to leadership are vital in a healthy, growing church. Even if I’ve moved to a place in my leadership where I’m primarily leading by vision, there will be instances when I need to lead by example. Where churches get stuck, though, is when only one style of leadership is evident in the top leadership team. So, before you continue reading, do you agree with my summary of these different stages of leadership growth? What would you add or delete from my descriptions? Also, where are you? What do you need to do today to prepare to step into a new leadership role tomorrow?
Something to think about
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~8 Reason Churches are stuck~

2011-12-26T12:15:00.002-05:00

This is the time of year right between new years and after Christmas where people around the world and even in churches sit down for a week and do some goal planning for the next year. It's very important to set these goals or "Wins" as I like to call it. for any ministry, church or even in your own life. One topic I have talked about many of times with church and ministry leaders is the goals and wins of a church and even the down falls of it as a whole. One question I am asked a lot is why churches are stuck and what keeps them from getting them to where God wants them to be. Here is a little jot of about 8 reason churches are stuck where they are.

1. You lack a leadership empowerment plan. We have failed as leaders in the church if we do not embrace the unique gift-mix that God designed. And we won’t fully know the power and impact of the local church until people are empowered to be the people God wired them up to be.
2.You are unclear about your vision and mission. There are lots of churches with vision statements, but I don’t think there are very many churches that really have a vision statement that clarifies who they are as an organization. A clear vision that is properly communicated will both rally and repel people.
3.You blame outsiders and external factors. Victim-thinking will only lead to bitterness and competition. Leaders who blame outsiders and external factors actually are confessing their own failure to think creatively and inspire their team.
4.Your structure inhibits growth. One of the attributes of a church in decline is a complex structure. The natural tendency of organizations is to add complexity to their structure and systems. The longer an organization exists, the more complex it typically gets.
5. You worship your past success. Our past successes can be one of the greatest contributing factors to our future demise. When organizations stick to “the way we do it,” the safe approach of avoiding innovation and change becomes the riskiest approach.
6. You focus on activities instead of outcomes. While many church leaders are full of vision and passion, they lack an effective strategy to accomplish their mission. That leads to a feeling of disorganization, and ultimately they become stuck.
7. You fail to equip God’s people. For whatever reason, smaller churches I work with have a tendency to rely on the pastors and paid staff to carry the ministry load rather than equipping lay people.
8. Your ministries ignore people outside the church. When churches become inward-focused and start making decisions about ministry to keep people rather than reach people, they also start to die.

I think all these points are very important however I have to say churches start to walk on thin ice when they hit point 8.... in my years of ministry I have seen this so much over and over again. Churches make decisions to keep people rather than reach people.... At times when I walk into a church I have to stop and ask myself are they all about entertainment of Christianity and what keeps people laughing and all smiles or are they about more. It brakes my heart to see churches lost so far in the world they honestly believe it's how Christ would do ministry. I guess if I had to add another reason chuches are stuck it would be 9. They lose their passion. May this be a great time of year to plan, pray. and dream where God can take you this next year!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Merry Chrstmas 2011

2011-12-25T17:30:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from the Rogers 2011

~Luke 2~

2011-12-24T22:12:00.000-05:00

Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus 1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.

And the Word is Good!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Day of Rest!

2011-12-22T17:32:00.000-05:00

Today is a day of much needed rest, prayer and time to spend with family and God. I am thankful for many things this year that God has given us. He has kept us safe and given us many blessings during the year. I was even able to pick up The Horse (aka my Truck) and I am sl glad to have it back. Praying all the issues with it are done and we are free of having to put anymore money into it. Thank you Lord for the little things this year!!!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

TC - Day 3

2011-12-21T20:00:00.001-05:00

Another long drive back to SC....opps GA. However at times I wish it was to SC. I do miss my home state but I know God has me where he wants me for now. It was a great time spending with my students on the drive back and we where even able to stop for a nice lunch not far from Rock Hill, SC. what a great place. As We came back I had to pray over and over again for God's will for my life. As the days move on I do think he is speaking to me more and more. I feel a pain at times however I have a overwhelming feeling of Great love and peace in my life right now. While in WV the past few days we heard a song written and sung by Klye and I have gotten the freedom to share this song with you... Maybe one day it will be for sale as It's so powerful. Listen to the Words and may it give you hope this Christmas.

Kyle MacCallum
Why Would I want to?
Copywritten (C) Annasings.com

In His Grip,

Pastor J

TC - Day 2

2011-12-20T23:13:00.000-05:00

well I guess I can say alot of things today from the stresses of the little things to even the drama and stress of the bigger things however I give thanks today for how great God is and the power of his love. I can't say this trip is turning into what I planned however God is in control and doing things His way. I am so tired and ready to fall in my bed so off I go. Again I have to say tonight that how blessed I am to have Anne and her family leading us in powerful worship. God is speaking in me in great ways and I can't wait to see what He is going to do in my life over the next year. Today He has reminded me that all things are in His hands and he will lead us in where we are to go. May be blessing my ministry and mission in the coming year. Tonight during worship I am giving a great word from God and it's as simple as one song that can make one feel loved by God. I wish to share on this night! May this christmas season you are filled with the Love of our all mighty Father!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

TC- Day 1

2011-12-19T23:59:00.000-05:00

Wow what a long day of Driving... I do have to say I am so glad we took this trip however it was a long drive. I do have to say I enjoyed the drive with great music and fellowship. Another Early morning as we have to get up and drive two hours to the Ski place. My prayer is it all works out. Powerful worship tonight. I am so glad we ask Anne and her family to come lead worship for us this week. Off to bed!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~The Climb Ski Trip~

2011-12-18T00:30:00.000-05:00

Off to The Climb Ski Trip with Diversity Student Ministries. Praying the Lord will be done on this trip. Having to get up way to early however God is good and I know God will do great things.

Blah....

2011-12-16T16:35:00.000-05:00

Putting my trust in the Lord today! This trip planning is not turning out too well... Having to move ski places from one place to another place and waiting on the Lord to move.... It seems he is waiting til the 9th hour!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Do you hear what I hear...

2011-12-14T18:15:00.001-05:00

Christmas Coffee!

2011-12-13T10:45:00.001-05:00

One of the greatness things about Christmas is Starbucks Coffee and all the fun drinks they come out with... I have yet to have one but my goal this year is to get something new from starbucks this year. Merry Christmas Starbucks! :-) Off to do more ski trip planning. Praying for a good trip and that the Lord would move in the hearts of the students who attend.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Changes~

2011-12-11T13:24:00.003-05:00

I was reading over a few of my friends and dear brothers in Ministry's blogs and came across this great post about leadership and Change... I find it makes one think and I find it to be very good to take some time and pray over.

What would change if we didn’t operate as if leadership was the primary lever by
which change happens? What if our perception that being the person in your
church to lead the community to faithfulness is a barrier to what we hope for in
the lives of people? What might happen if we spend a year not trying to change anyone or anything, but only created space for others to do what they thought was faithful as a
church? What would it require of our hearts? Would we be able to do it? Is there
something about the way we lead that feeds our needs and deflects ideas of others in our church with different perspectives? Could we even give up our agenda for a week to listen to what else God is doing? Are we so certain that our agenda and God’s agenda are the same that we can’t
even fathom the questions above? Could our internal resistance to the questions
above, in fact be a sign that our agenda isn’t the only one God is concerned
about? What’s at risk if we change as leaders? Are the things that come to mind related to fears we have and refuse to face? What’s at risk if we as leaders refuse to be changed ourselves? What kind of leadership is that? What’s at stake if we never dig within ourselves to discover the motivations we hide from ourselves? What would change if we focused on changing ourselves and letting our communities focus on changing themselves as a community? What would change if we
stopped trying to fix people, or get the to agree with our doctrine, theology, or perspective?
What would it look like to trust the Holy Spirit more than ourselves?
What would change?

Rise and Shine!

2011-12-09T18:08:00.003-05:00

I woke up way to early this morning however I enjoyed a nice breakfast with some good friends. Sometimes it always good to have someone just listen. Even when we we are not the best company to always been around. I am reminded over the past few days how Big and great our God is. Even in the dark times of life He is our light unto our path. A great truth I have been chewing on over the past few weeks!

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." -Jeremiah 29:11

In Greek one would put it:
"καὶ λογιοῦμαι ἐφ' ὑμᾶς λογισμὸν εἰρήνης καὶ οὐ κακὰ τοῦ δοῦναι ὑμῖν ταῦτα"

In His Grip,

-Pastor J

Noel

2011-12-08T22:24:00.000-05:00

As Christmas is around the block I stop to think of all the many Christmas songs I enjoy. One of the 1st that come to mind is "The 1st Noel" I have to stop and take time and get some history and back ground on this word "Noel" The Wikipidia states Noel (or noël) is an alternate word for Christmas. The word comes from the French word Noël meaning "Christmas" which derives from the old French word noël, a variant of nael. The Latin origin is the word natalis ("birth"). Some even believe the word comes from and meaning "The good news". Did you know "good news" in the Greek is simply "Gospel". I hear over and over again people use the term "That's Greek to me" and it's funny as in truth most people know Greek they just don't know they know it. Most people know one one the 1st places I ever worked was a Greek restaurant and during my many years of middle school (yes I worked under the table at a young age) and high school the Greek family took me under their wing and if you know anything about the Greeks you would know they are like one big mafia family who love hard but will to die for one of their own if they had too. In many ways I was adopted by this family and become one of their own. From lifestyle to who I hung out with, to what I ate and even to being able to attend a church with the family. It was a great part of life I will never forget. Well all that to give a little bit of a background on who I am today. In the town Debbie and I are currently living in there is a Greek restaurant up the road and many of times I have enjoyed some fellowship and even a free glass of tea there. While I was their this week I asked about the Holidays and the family views Christmas. Here is how things went.

Me: Τι είναι επάνω με τα Χριστούγεννα εδώ;
C: Ένας χρόνος από την οικογένεια και το καλό φαγητό, όπως γνωρίζετε
Me: Χριστούγεννα είναι κάτι περισσότερο από τα δώρα
Me: νομίζετε

C: ναι πάντα
Me: Καλά είμαι μακριά Μαΐου έχετε μια μεγάλη Χριστούγεννα
C:Εν Χριστώ

In a nutshell after a short chat It can't down to the true meaning of Christmas and that's Christ ( Χριστώ)
Have your ever wonder where XMas comes from? From the Greek word Χριστώ.

~CHRISTmas~

2011-12-06T13:02:00.000-05:00

The Devil is here to kill, steal and destroy!
I prayer this Christmas everyone would find to Truth in Christmas.
May it not be about the gifts, the food, the football games, But something MORE!
May it be about life, a new that you have never face before But a ever living Life!
In His Grip
-Pastor J

~SONday~

2011-12-04T12:51:00.002-05:00

Oh I am so ready for Christmas I love the lights, the smells, the gifts and even more the time we stop to give thanks to God for sending His son. I was reminded this morning of a song from years ago.

Greater is he that is in me

Greater is he that is in me and He that is in the Lord

Satan like a roaring Lion

rowing to and foe

Seeking whom he may debower
the bible tells us so

O many souls have gone a stay

to fall in some weak hour

God have given us today

His over coming power!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Not sure why Blogger has not updated may last few post from the past few weeks but will work on it this monday.

~London~

2011-12-02T16:11:00.000-05:00

Today we pray for London
58% of people in london say they are Christians
however 15% say no God or no religion are a part of their life.
In His Grip,
-Pastor J

~Johannesburg~

2011-12-01T23:25:00.000-05:00

Johnannesburg is a city in South Afica.
Johnanneburg is one of the most unchurches areas in the world.
Most people just don't know anything about Christ much less any God.
In His Grip,
-Pastor J

~Rio de Janeiro~

2011-11-30T15:15:00.000-05:00

Today we stop and pray for Rio De Janeiro. Rio De Janeiro is a city in Brazil.
Debbie and I have some good friends ministering in Brazil.
Over 60% of people in Rio De Janeiro are Catholic.

In His Grip,
-Pastor J

~Tokyo~

2011-11-29T17:00:00.000-05:00

Today we stop to pray for Tokyo!
In tokyo there are alot of Muslims however in all the of the lands the cities are some of the fastest growing home and undergrand churches ever.

~Week of Prayer~

2011-11-28T09:40:00.001-05:00

So this week we come to a week of prayer! so each day I am going to say a place and may we take time to stop and prayer for those people as well as may Christ me found in the hearts of the people of the lands! However I think today I am going to start with our own lands of the USA. I think Christ is needed more then anything of the people of this land. Did you know that churches are growing faster and more over seas then the nation of that was founded on Christ. It very said however lets take today and pray for our people!

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we
will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart
of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their
surging." - Psalm 46:1-3

In His Grip,
-Pastor J

~Thanksgiving~

2011-11-24T08:05:00.000-05:00

"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever."

-Psalm 107:1

Happy Thanksgiving!!

-Pastor J

~The Green Horse is Sick~

2011-11-19T18:35:00.003-05:00

So for the 1st time I have had the Horse (my truck) break down on me... I have had it for two years this Jan 2012. I was out of town at the 1st of this week and didn't drive it anywhere and Wednesday I drove fine. I didn't use it Thursday as someone else picked me up and took me out however we got in it to head to the church fellowship today and I didn't get far. It sounds like something is way off with the fuel system at least that is what it sounds like. But again I am a city boy and no nothing about a car or truck but where to put gas in it and how to take it to the fix it shop! LoL I hate when we only have one car but it really sucks when we are down to nothing.... BLAH! My baby is sick and needs to get better. The goal is to take it in on Monday as everywhere is closed over the weekend and praying it does not cost alot as we are poor people and just don't have money to put into it. Oh when it rains is storms! Maybe if I pray hard someone will give me a new car! just kidding LOL that will never happen!
In His Grip,
J

Friday Praise God!

2011-11-18T11:04:00.002-05:00

Here is a Quote from "Fathered by God" I don't have the book however I think I am going to put it on my list of things to buy!

"Now, for you younger men, don't worry much about this stage, for it will come in due time. When you are young, commit yourself to take as few shortcuts as possible. Learn your lessons. Take note of all that God is teaching you. Submit to the journey. Be a student of the Scriptures. Hang out with the wise, living or dead, for that is how we, too, become wise."

Have a great Weekend!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Game Day!

2011-11-17T23:35:00.000-05:00

So today turned out to be full of games but over all it was a great day! after the rain last night it turned out to be a nice windy and sunny day! I took one of my leaders off to go play 18 holes of Disc Golf. I lost by only one down however my leader played very good as the 1st time he has ever played. I didn't do so bad with not playing in over 5 years. I still have my game and know how to trow, "Got to Go Got to Trow". We have cell group tonight however with it being a thursday night there was a fwe other things going on around town that most of our group went to. But we did have a good smaller group show so instead of jumping into the "Farm House" study we played settlers of catan. The best game ever! Come on you know it is. :) The to end the night we watched NFL and the Broncos kill the Jets. To be honest this was teh 1st time I have watched the Broncos and I enjoyed the game okey however I hate that they talk and talk and talk so much... I wanted to be like COME ON SHUT UP and let us watch the game! I do like and enjoy College Football games more. Oh well off to bed I go! God is good!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Holy are your G_D~

2011-11-16T23:08:00.000-05:00

What a night at Diversity Student Ministries! Tonight was the end of our study on Worship and Boy did our God show out! From powerful worship, Live and Streaming, to Worship art I started to seeing the students awake into a passion worship God like no other! Thank you Jesus for your Grace and Love. The night ended to seeing one of our 6th grades come to finding the Love of God and being washed by the Blood of the Lamb! We Rejoice in a life being saved tonight! Praise God.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Calling all Pastors!

2011-11-15T08:01:00.000-05:00

Thats a lot of Pastors and Ministry Staff!
Here are the weeks Highlights to what I leave this meeting with:

In marriage: "Husbands can be Happy or Right"

In chinese: The Word "Amen" is......... "Amen"

Southern Baptist must have learned to voted from the state of FL

"If your fat you can't be a pastor" - GBC Pastor

"Give more to the GBC" - GBC Speakers

Oh I can go on however over all I found out that My God is bigger then any convention or denomination. Praise God!

And last there is nothing Godly about mans politics in a Christian denomination or any church!

Always

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Southern Baptist~

2011-11-14T07:30:00.001-05:00

So with one of the perks of working in GA church now I am able to attend and vote at the GA Southern Baptist State Meetings... So Off we go to a meeting that I have no clue how things will turn out. Not sure if this is anything like other states I have been a part of or not. We will see! Praying for a safe and good trip.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Worship in the Nursery~

2011-11-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

Oh how I love the heart of Children and how they worship freely to Love of God. I think many adults could learn alot from them... Even those who are set in thier ways and who live with the mind set "it's all about me". It's great to know that my God is a big God and that All things are in His hands no matter how big or how small. I am thankful for being a parent and for the two gifts God has given. What a great reminder today how God is "This Big".
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Holistc Lifestyle

2011-11-05T20:41:00.003-04:00

Over the past few years or so we have lived a holistc lifestyle. From the changes in using fresh foods, homecooking, growing herbs, to even alternative medicines. Over all our heath has been better, and healthier then years past. It's a daily choice on what to eat, what to shop for, and even how active we want to be in our daily lives. However it's more then just food and physical but metal and emotional and spiritaul well-bring. First off besides what you eat and do is where your heart is and asking yourself daily are you living out the standard of Jesus Christ daily. Part of living a holistc lifestyle is also keeping the world around you as simple and stress free as much as we are able. One of the biggest way can keep the stress down is as simple as what we put in our homes, offices, (for teachers - class rooms) and even in our cars. Ever see someones car that is got about 3 feet of trash in the back and no room to get into. I once saw a small car that a older lady had that had so much stuff in side it she couldn't see out the back seat much less even get in the thing. I am always reading newletters, emails, websites, and blogs and the other day I came across this blog and found it to be really good info.

Although I don’t have any linguistic rules to back me up, I feel like it’s not coincidental that the word “home” begins with the same letters as the word “holistic” (not to mention includes the word “om”).Holistic living is being more and more embraced with conscious eating, preventive and alternative medicine, and simplicity. Holistic implies being “whole” or taking into account the “whole” picture – our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Historically, in the West, we have put a priority on physical health; while in the East, there has been a focus on spiritual health. Both are now being embraced and united with a holistic lifestyle. And now our home is coming to the forefront as another component of holistic living. More people are realizing that their home can be a source of healing – a place of essential change. Our home is second to our body as our physical dwelling on Earth. It is so closely related to our mind and body that the two have oftentimes throughout history been used interchangeably in religions, architecture and dream analysis. And this I know is not coincidental. For the last four years, I have gone to people’s homes to help them with energy flow, clutter clearing and even color selecting. And what I’ve discovered is that our home is a mirror of ourselves. And as we make changes to our home, we are making changes to ourselves. The energy patterns within you – physically, mentally and emotionally – are also present within your home. Have you ever had a great massage or bodywork where you left feeling great? And upon returning home, you fell right back into your old patterns – maybe your shoulders started to slump forward again or your breathing returned to being labored. If the energy flow in your home is “off” then the energy flow in your body will be as well. Energy flow in your home can be affected by furniture, accessories, clutter and the quality of energy. Here are a few things to consider in making your home part of your holistic lifestyle.
1. Remove furniture blocks. Do you bump into any furniture? Do you hit corners sticking out? Are there tight places that feel constraining? Too much furniture can be major blocks of energy and very stressful. And if they’re in your house, then those blocks are also in your life.
2. Clear emotional clutter. Clutter is stagnant energy. So if you feel stagnant in any area of your life, then there’s probably clutter lurking somewhere in your life that has taken form. If it’s your love life that’s stagnant, then clear out stuff from past relationships. If it’s your career that’s stagnant, clear out your office. If it’s your body that’s cluttered, then clean out your cupboards, fridge and clothing closet.
3. Inventory your accessories. Like a great outfit, accessories are essential. They can make an outfit. But if overdone, they can ruin an outfit. Such is the case with accessories in your home. Take inventory of the accessories in your home. You should love every one of them. Don’t use accessories to distract. I find that people who use too many accessories with an outfit are subconsciously trying to distract attention away from them personally and to their clothing instead. Don’t let your accessories distract you. Love everything in your home, including yourself.
4. Clear the Junk!. No one likes to sit at a table in the restaurant before it’s been cleared of the dishes left by the people who sat there before. Use fresh paints, clean the junk out and start fresh in any home. So as you become more conscious of your diet, exercise, spirituality and so forth, become conscious of your home as well. As you love your home, you will love yourself and find less stress in your life.

I found this to be right on with how we should set up our house, office and the space around us up. We keep things simple and clean and don't over do it. It is shocking to me when I see someone so stressed out in life and then I go to there house and see ever wall covered with something... anything. and there is just so much "stuff". Some people would think the more stuff you have the richer you are but I have learned over many years that's just not true. I have found the keeping life simple we can keep our eyes on what really matters in life! There is much in his blog of the energy flow in your home. I think what really needs to be pointed out even more is the spiritual side of things. Just as Heaven and Hell are real places so are Angels and Demons. and we should pray and even "give back" to God (a form of Worship) our homes and to purge our home of any demonic attacks of Staten. Perry Stone has a great book out called "Purging Your House" I think is a great read for anyone wanting more info or who just likes to see differant point of views. I must say overall I do feel the writer of this blog has some good points to think about. Have a great rest of the weekend and May the Lord be the light onto your path.
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Disc Golf Goal~

2011-11-03T13:16:00.000-04:00

I got my Disc Golf Goal up today.. I am very happy with it. I can't wait to get get to be able to use it outside. I hope to be able to use it some with our new cell group that we are starting this month. However with the time change coming it will get darker sooner and might be hard to use till later in the spring. I found there is a golf club in the city that has 18 holes of disc golf so I am making plans to be able to head out there and do some disc golfing within the next few weeks. If the weather works out this week I might head that way this week for a few rounds. For now we have put the DG Goal in the front room and Emily has been trowing her stuff bears into it as if they were the disc. I think when she gets older she is going to want to play disc golf.. Over the past few weeks she has been love coming into my office and playing putt putt with my golf club and prc ball. She is funny however great as she goes and get the balls and returns them for me.. It's great! Well off I go.... HI Ho HI Ho...
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Week One of Worship!

2011-11-02T23:32:00.000-04:00

What a great night at Diversity! I enjoyed Powerful Worship, A great Word from God and enjoyed meeting with my small group guys tonight. I felt God's warmth all night long. It's great to know that Christ is bigger and more powerful then anything we face! I have alot to be thankful for this week and I am ready to give thanks this month of November. Well Off to bed for morning with the family and a day off to relax and refresh after a long week.
In His Grip,
Pastor J

~Words Hurt~

2011-11-01T15:05:00.000-04:00

What a very bad day. Today it's best to stay silent and know that MY GOD IS BIGGER! One thing I have learned this week is even the Church can fail. And ONLY His Love is never failing. One of the greatness things in life is We have to answer to noone but the Lord Jesus Christ and only through His blood are we saved. God is a just God and I am thankful for that. Today I did some reading in Matthew. I understand how Peter felt.

“Then Peter came to Jesus. ‘Lord, if my brother keeps on hurting me, how many times should I forgive him?’ he asked. ‘Should I forgive him seven times?’ ‘No, not just seven times, but forgive him seventy times seven times’, Jesus
said.‘Where God rules is like a king. The king wanted to collect all the money that his servants owed him. So he began to do this. Then they brought a man to him who owed him millions of silver coins. The man was not able to pay. So the master ordered them to sell the man, his wife,
his children and all his possessions. The master would receive that money to pay the servant’s debt. Then the servant kneeled in front of the king. “Be patient with me”, he said. “I will pay back everything that I owe you.” And the master pitied him. So he forgave the servant for all that he owed. And he let the servant leave free.That servant went out then. But he found one of the other servants who owed him just a few silver coins. The first servant held the second servant firmly. He began to squeeze the second servant’s neck. “Pay back what you owe me!” he
demanded.The second servant kneeled down in front of him. “Be patient with me and I will pay you back”, he said.But the first servant refused. Instead, he caused the authorities to throw the other servant into prison. And he had to stay there until he could pay back the debt. The rest of
the servants saw what had happened. And they were very upset about it. So they told their master everything that had happened.Then the master called the first servant to come back to him. “You wicked servant”, he said, “I forgave all your debt to me because you asked me to. You should have pitied the other servant, just as I pitied you!” His master was very angry. So he handed the servant over to the prison officers for punishment. He must stay in prison until he paid everything back to his master.You must forgive your brothers. My Father who is in heaven will act like this king towards each of you. So you must forgive them from deep inside yourselves.’”
Matthew 18:21-35

In His Loving Grip,

Pastor J

Monday morning Coffee!

2011-10-31T09:43:00.003-04:00

So after a long week of being sick I am back in the game of life back doing my day to day things. With having to take a week off and being in bed about 90% of the time I did alot of thinking. Thinking about God's people and how no matter how hard you try only Christ can change the heart of the man. I have been reading in Act over this past month and the main theme I have come to is when there is ministry for Christ there is persecution. Oh how I have lived this many many times over the years. A pastor friend of mine reminded me this week Romans 12:12; "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." Oh how it's hard to be patient in any tribulation. But once again as years past and many time before I keep moving forword. I have learn over time that there is always victory after a time of tribulation and I am starting to remind myself that daily. Well I am off to start on my mile long today list. But I leave with sharing a post from Debbie's blog this morning that I felt was a great reminder to what and who Christ has called us to be.

Someone Doesn't Like Me by Cecil Murphey
Across the street lives a neighbor with whom I had a minor run-in last year. Since
then, she doesn't "see" me when we pass each other in the neighborhood. If her
husband stops to talk to me, she keeps walking. She doesn't like me and
probably never will. I figured out long ago that there will always be a few
people who probably won't ever like me.That's true with all of us: Some
people don't like us. Won't like us. Ever. Often we don't know the
reason. I've tried to engage her in conversation and
several times I gave her plants from our garden, but she hasn't warmed up to
me. I recently admitted that regardless of anything I do, she'll probably
continue to have no use for me. Years ago I began to pray for
individuals who disliked me or spoke against me. I prayed for God to repay them
for their sins and their hardness of heart. That was self-righteous, indignant
praying, and I no longer pray that way. To my neighbor I owe
thanks for helping me to change my attitude. I pray good things for her every
day. I expect no change, not even a friendly smile. From that situation,
I understood something significant for me. First, those don't-like-me
individuals push me toward self-examination. I honestly search my heart to
figure out if I'm guilty of wrongdoing toward them. Most of the time, no answer
comes. (When it does, I apologize.) Second, whenever my
neighbor walks down the street, I see her slumped shoulders and the lack of joy
on her face. I don't know much about her and I don't ask other neighbors. I
simply believe that she must be an unhappy woman. Each day and each time
I see her, I pray for God to fill her with peace and joy. Maybe
God will answer my prayer.

I read this one before when Debbie shared this story and I am thankful again for what a great reminder to how true this story really is. So I pray the same for all those people who lack joy, and may the Lord give fill them with compassion and love like they have never seen before.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~A Week of Sickness~

2011-10-28T02:15:00.001-04:00

SO It seems I spent this whole week sick as a dog. It seems that everyone from Ethan, Emily to Debbie and I think even the dogs may have been sick this week. This was so not the week to be sick with Fall Fest, Church Fall revival, and so much that needed to get done. However God showed Himself tonight during the fall fest with having atleast 400 + show up. I was shocked at how big it turned out to be. I think next year we will do alot of things differant at least I hope so or it might be the last. Well I am beat and must get to bed. I still am feeling a little blah but glad I am able to move and do the things that need to be done.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Am I still Alive?

2011-10-27T11:55:00.000-04:00

I am starting to feel the rest of my body and I was able to get up out of bed for a few hours this morning however I went back to bed for the rest of the day... I will try again later!

In His Grip,

@#$&!

2011-10-25T22:35:00.000-04:00

Not a good day!

2011-10-24T18:02:00.000-04:00

~Anchor~

2011-10-22T14:42:00.003-04:00

New song this past week at NPCC called Anchor. What powerful words. I found this song to be very anointing this week. When in the storms we face we can know our God is a mighty God!

I was thinking....

2011-10-21T11:27:00.002-04:00

So I was watching a bug's life this morning with Emily and it hit me. What If? So in a hours time this is what I came up with:

Busy Bees!

2011-10-20T23:20:00.001-04:00

Busy day but great show tonight!

SOLD!

2011-10-19T15:39:00.000-04:00

so after a few weeks thinking and praying over what to do with our van we put it up for sale. Well within the next 24 hours we had a buyer and Sold it! The question come to me head that maybe we sold it too cheap.. However I have to remind myself that it was a little over blue book and the reason for that is it was a strong running van and I really wanted at least part of what we put into it over the time we had it. It was still a steal for what it was. Our biggest prayer is that it could be a blessing to someone else as it has been for us. The man we sold it to have been over seas working in missions and is looking to get back on his feet here in the USA. So with that behind us we start the next few months researching a new car. (at least newer for us) We would like to get a car/small suv or even crossover this time. The biggest thing is it needs to have 4 doors, great on gas and be able to fit a fat man inside LoL :) and lets not forget two car seats in the back. I am thinking: Toyota Camry, Nissan maxima, or maybe a Hyundai, or Kia, or even a Ford Escape. Who knows we are going to start the research now and start praying the Lord will line up something for us that fits our family needs and budget. Praise the Lord for a good sale today!!

In His Grip,

Lets Say...

2011-10-18T11:52:00.000-04:00

I spoke to a old pastor friend of mine the other day and we started talking about church growth and the death of some churches. It seems in past few weeks two churches within his city closed their doors and 3 churches lunched in the past week. One being a church plant from his ministry and home church. It got me thinking, and seeking for an answer... this is what I found.

So if a church isn’t growing, what’s happening? Rick Warren says it’s dying, that it’s diseased. It’s a bleak image, but one that seems fairly accurate. However, living organisms do get sick. It’s fairly natural for churches to go through sick periods when they get off track and need to heal. As a result, growth may sputter.It also seems applicable that plants often need pruning. It’s an image that comes up in the Bible a few times. Pruning in itself isn’t growth and it may be a necessary stage—but it’s worth pointing out that the whole point of pruning is to further growth. Perhaps we can conclude that if a church isn’t growing, it should be going through a process that will eventually lead to growth. Maybe it needs time to heal. Maybe it had to remove a tumor, and such a process would hinder growth temporarily. But the point of removing a tumor is that the body can be healthy and growing again.It’s also true that organisms die. Death is a natural part of life. While it’s disheartening to see, some churches may need to die. But I think we see them being reborn as new churches are planted. Taking the analogy of the church as an organism a step farther, that body can die, and return to the ground and so fuel other living organisms. It’s the cycle of life. Perhaps local churches aren’t meant to last forever, but the universal Church is, and so it will continue growing in some way.

I came across a book a few years ago that was a great read. By, Robert Scott Stiner called Lessons from a venetian vinedresser. I could go into writing a book on just this book but wow was a great book that talks about how in order for stronger growth we at times have to be pruned and shaped up by the Father the vinedresser, "I am the vine and your are the branches and my Father is the vinedresser." It's a great book that brings to life to John 15:1-9!! Well I will stop now before I write too much. :)

In His Grip,

~Monday Morning Coffee~

2011-10-17T09:16:00.000-04:00

I have been doing alot of studying in the book of Acts this month and been working on a few series I would like to do. I am not really sure it's for students but who knows maybe oneday God will use it somewhere else down the road in my ministry. While working in this series I can across this key point in the life of the church and within the body of the church. "Be a fountain not a drain." Oh how I could go on and on about this one key point, but I won't just yet. Happy Monday morning coffee to you!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

~Sunday Blessings~

2011-10-16T23:07:00.003-04:00

"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9

A dear friend of mine from College Laura Story who most people know now-a-days as Christian music artist and song writter wrote Blessings. In this song she writes that even in the darkess times in life there is Hope and Hope can come even within a tear drop. Years ago during the time Laura was leading worship for our Chapel at CIU and playing bass for the group Silers Bald there was a song she wrote back in the late 90's called Nothing Else Beside. It was another great remember at how only Christ matters and in the darkess times only He shines!

I hope and pray your week is fullfilled by the Greatness of God!

-Pastor J

~One Statement~

2011-10-15T00:56:00.003-04:00

Oneday I will give detail to why I love this picture.

"Holy Spirit dwell in me"

It's Friday!!

2011-10-14T20:17:00.000-04:00

My little man is still not doing very well. I felt I needed to come home early today to give Debbie a bit of a brake and I also needed to get the front grass cut. Ethan had a high temp when he woke up from his afternoon nap however while I have been watching him he has been doing okay for now. Praying he returns to him old self very soon.
In other news I have really been amazed by what God is showing me as I redo my study in Acts this month. I have read this book many many times in the past and it seems God is opening up a whole new view I have not seen before. I will do a more detailed study post about it later. I had a old pastor friend of mine email this week some very kind words of encouragement for me and my current ministry here in Guyton. Thanks to everyone for their support and prayers as the Lord works in great ways here. Boy how I do miss some things from the past. But thankful I am where I am at. I came across a few items today while going through my ministry book. Mostly some past sermons written some for churches and some for college class. While looking back on them I shock myself wow could it be at one time I wrote that... Powerful stuff some of it and other stuff LoL wow how things in my heart and mind have changed. I view somethings different then I did before and somethings are the same. Oh how we change! But Hey as one of my college profs always said change is part of growing in the Lord!
In His Grip,
-Pastor J

Football Team Stats:

2011-10-13T11:09:00.005-04:00

Here are the stats for my Carolina boys... WOW so far a great year!

Sat, Sept 3 vs East Carolina W 56-37
Sat, Sept 10 vs Georgia W 45-42
Sat, Sept 17 vs Navy W 24-21
Sat, Sept 24 vsVanderbilt W21-3
Sat, Oct 1 vs Auburn L 16-13
Sat, Oct 8 vs Kentucky W 54-3

now my TN vols are a differant story this year.. they need to shape up. The main issue we have this year is there are so many young guys on the field this year and just don't know what they are doing. I think there has been a few bad calls made this year too. :( This up and coming saturday they are going to be playing LSU and talk about bad called last year just sucked at the last touchdown being recalled. Blah... maybe this year we can beat their butts! Oh well off to enjoy my rainy, foggy thursday!

-PJ

Notice!

2011-10-12T00:16:00.000-04:00

Great night tonight! This week Notice someone! Why because you might be the only Hope!

Thanks to everyone and the prayers for Ethan. Here is the latest from Debbie:
Thank you so much for your prayers! Ethan is home and sleeping for the time being, which is a huge blessing, as he is overly exhausted. Where we have no definite answer as to what is causing the night/sleep terrors, after 2 1/2 hours in Memorial's Pediatric ER Ethan is finally able to stop vomiting and has kept down both medicine and a few ounces of liquid. Zofran is such a wonderful medication! It was an almost immediate difference. Another huge relief off off our shoulders is that his belly/intestines are clear (for those who don't know he had issues with that as an infant and these screaming fits have been very reminiscent of those early weeks with him). We are praying for a restful night for all of us, that Ethan would continue to rehydrate well and get back on his normal sleep cycles again.

Thanks again. We now pray for much needed sleep for the whole family.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

New Awana Training....

2011-10-11T16:18:00.000-04:00

I am thinking about starting a new training this week to become an Awana at Home Director. More test and studying... Blah! I am not sure what I am going to do with it or if I will ever use it. But after seeing my 24/7 ministry leaders jump on board with their BT training and becoming passionate about it, I need to uphold my role and find something to do as well. I asked a old friend of mind from Awana International who did my training years ago, whats the next step for me as I am already a commander and have been for a while now. This will be my 6 year working with the Awana program. It's been a few years from the time I was last able to use it.. over 5 years now so it's great to be able to reactivate myself again. And pick things back up after so many years. My friend requested I join Awana At Home leadership team. It's a new program to me as it's only been a round for a short time. (at least to me). I can't see where any of this will lead to but I took him up on his offer this week. So I start training in a few days....Praying something great will come of it. I guess time will tell. Well off to get more work done.
In His Grip,

Pastor J

P.S. I have noticed that a few of my blog post don't post on the same day it was written... Oh well the world of PCs.

11 years ago this month My ministry started!

2011-10-10T14:25:00.005-04:00

<----The 1st church I preached in.

From Old Churches to Young Churches to Church Plants!

Ministry Roles: Broadcasting Dircetor, Media Pastor, Intern, Pastor of Students, Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor.

From Big Ministries to Small Ministries and back again!

From South Carolina, Tennessee to Georgia.

From Computers, Adults, Children and Students

Hard Times and Good Times! God is Good!! I look forward to seeing what God has in store over the next 11 years.

I love this picture!

2011-10-09T16:01:00.000-04:00

'Christless' Christianity

2011-10-08T12:02:00.003-04:00

I think he is right on!! I think I just added a new book to my list.

It's Friday!

2011-10-07T10:14:00.000-04:00

So it seems I am still sick and feel like crap, Blah!!!! Praying I start to feel better in the name of Jesus! I have so much today today but not feeling like doing anything. Maybe things will get better. I am however going to start a new study in the book of Acts today and hoping God will show me some great things I have never seen before. Maybe. Well off to study for our 24-7 Ministries training this saturday. I am so glad to have some great leaders who step up and said "We know God's at work and we want in" Thanks guys for everything. And I want to always take time to thank my Diversity leadership team for all they do. God is at work in many areas of the Church and I can't wait to see what happens. I am sadded to see my small group on sunday nights go. I have always enjoyed leading adult small groups however I don't think I am done anytime soon with adult small groups. God have giving me many things to think about... Hint Hint!! :)

In His Grip,

New Student Ministry- Kick Off!

2011-10-06T14:30:00.003-04:00

So It seems over the past few weeks there has become a great need on Sunday nights for our students. Now if you know me you would know I am all about simplifying church and ministry and I teach and preach it over and over again to keep it simple! So this is a very new to me having to launch another student ministry all in one place. But God is still a great and big God, and knows whats He is doing! After some deep, long and mind blowing prayer and talks with pastor friends over the past few hours and days I move forward with this new ministry. We will be 24-7 Ministries this Sunday at 6:00 PM. It seems the Lord has already started moving in great ways. From leadership, to study, to layout even to providing funds to kick this thing off. This will be set a side of what we are doing on Wed nights at Diversity Student Ministires and will not be apart of it. From differant leaders, layout, training and over all purpose. All I know is I am am holding on and letting God drive us where He wants us to go. With seat belts on here we go!
Let me share just a little about what 24-7 Ministries is for the ones who don't know. 24-7 Ministries is part of the Awana Clubs that meet in churches all over the world. 24-7 ministries is for middle and high school students and even goes up to college in some areas. There are two parts of 24-7 one Trek. Trek challenges middle-school students to consider their destiny in Christ and pursue it through life application of God's Word. This is a great starting point for all middle schoolers who are seeking there place in the world. Next is Journey, Journey challenges High School students in an energetic look at biblical based content, life application and an emphasis on Scripture memory and discipleship. This is great for any students who want to deepen their walk with Christ and who is wanting more out of life!

I have been part of Awana Clubs now for 5 years in past churches I have been apart of, this making it my 6th year. I started out as a leader moving my way up to club director then to club commander and adopt-a-club director. So I am ready to get back into something I know works and if done right works well. (I have noticed that most churches don't do Awana Club right and need more training over the past few years of me watching other churches) But away we will how things play out if this is what Christ wells for our ministry may be be fulfilled.

In His Grip,

How I feel!

2011-10-05T10:00:00.002-04:00

Lord, let me day go by fast, so I can return home to go to bed!

Do not disturb, Gods at work!

2011-10-03T11:04:00.000-04:00

On phone and skype meetings today with other pastors and friends going over a few new items and issues we have been faced with this past weekend. Praying the Lord would provide something greater then ourselves and humble all God's people with HIS plans NOT theirs.

In His Grip,

Pastor J

What Church should learn from Google!!! (LifeChurch Version)

2011-10-02T21:10:00.003-04:00

The title speaks for itself…so here ya go.

Make your user interface simple!

There are few user interfaces that are simpler to use than the Google search box. Who would have imagined that the massive scope of the entire Internet could be navigated through that simple box? In contrast, we (The Church) often seem to create extremely complex interfaces to the same basic, but yet important, content. Now, to be fair, many times that is not intentional. But…that’s actually the problem (lack of intention)!

Just to clarify, I’m not simply talking about our websites. We make it complex for people to find answers about God or be a part of a church in general. We put so many barriers in front of people and try to simultaneously convey way too much information and give people very little control over what information they receive and how/where they receive it.

I would never use Google if it required me to leave my house and travel to an unfamiliar building on Sunday only once a week…listen to 30 minutes of unrecognizable music, followed by a person talking for 30-40 minutes, and still possibly have to try to find a person who looked “official” just to find “results” for my search. That would be absurd! But, that is a substantially abbreviated version of what so many churches put people through who are searching.

I’m not talking about the content you communicate (though that should be easy to understand/navigate too!), but rather the way people access and interact with that content. Is it easy for them to find what they’re looking for? And what about things they don’t even know they should be looking for—is there a simple flow of involvement that leads them there?

Some of you have already simplified the “interface.” What are some examples of things that need to be simplified in the Church interface?

I could add so much more however but I will save time and won't atleast tonight.

In His Grip,
Pastor J

Game Day!

2011-10-01T17:15:00.001-04:00

BLAH BLAH BLAH....

2011-09-30T16:29:00.003-04:00

Emily woke up this morning sick and I think after watching her for a few hours this morning she gave me whatever she had. I am praying for recovery of this bug thing ASAP! Atleast it's friday and I can go home and go to bed.

Human Reasoning or Heavenly Revelation

2011-09-27T13:06:00.003-04:00

While listening to a sermon by a dear friend and brother in Christ this morning. Over the past few weeks I have be wondering why is it that Christ allows churches the run in the way they do. I am once again contacted this week about another church that closed it's doors this past Sunday. I heard just this past week how it is ranked for 2011 85% of churches from all dons and backgrounds are dieing or dead churches. Wow 85%!! That seems so high but as I attend many churches through out the Southeast I start to believe that it really could be true. In the area we currently live there is 1 church for every 30 people. I am blown away by that. It seems even with so many churches in one area that is such a big need not for more churches but an awaking that is bigger then ourselves and own doing but by the powerful Holy Spirit. It's funny over the past few weeks and even month I have been listening to a few current church sermons and I am shocked how most all of the the churches I have heard or seen are talking about God's Vision. I am not sure if there is a memo going around to each pastor or if the Lord is preparing churches for something coming. I think this past week I heard the same sermon preached about four times all from differant pastors, churches and all in differant ways. I great to see how the Lord is moving not only in our area but all over the world. Even in these times we have many people who are still living by Human reasoning and it seems to always get in the way of God's movment however God is greater and we can make the choice to listen to those things that get in the way or move forward with a Heavenly Revelation.I could go on and on but I won't for now. Pushing Play to the story of God!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Trip to the City...

2011-09-26T21:48:00.003-04:00

This week we got a new 2011 Jeep with only 3,000 Miles on it.. Great ride I so wanted to go off road with it but Debbie wouldn't let me. I think Emily wanted to go with me however... LOL

Sunday at NPCC Live

2011-09-25T23:04:00.001-04:00

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,

and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

- Mark 10:45 TNIV

Changes... The Smell What a Wonderful word!

2011-09-24T21:11:00.003-04:00

Well there seems to be great changes to the campus of PBC. It starting to feel clean and starting to feel it's having a bigger purpose them just for sundays. It's great to see churches enbracing change. Over the many years in ministry I have seem so many church set back and keep doing what they do for years and years not knowing where they are going or even why they are doing what they are doing. The only thing they know is they have done it the same way for years before and thats why they do what they do. But anyway thats another long post in it's self. So debbie is over with her girls small group taking over the house for the night and I am over at a friends house doing some work for in the morning. I have much moreing work to be done so I am off but before i go I wanted to show this video form a church I have know the pastor at and found this video to be very good.
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Happy Friday!

2011-09-23T12:53:00.001-04:00

~Happy Friday~
Happy Firday, This morning I am busy working on stuff media stuff for this weeks up and coming Sunday night meeting that will be taking place on campus here at PBC in Guyton, GA.
But in other news I was asked by one of my pastor friends to post my outline notes from Pastors Healing Conference.

How to Keep From Getting Hurt in a Church

(1) Avoid developing unreasonable expectations of the church — “My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him” (Psa. 62:5).

(2) Don’t place an absolute trust in people — “Thus says the LORD: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD” (Jer. 17:5).

(3) Focus on common ground — “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10).

(4) Don’t expect any church to be perfect — “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.” (Rom. 7:18-19)

(5) Don’t seek to promote yourself or your own agenda — “Do not lift up your horn on high; Do not speak with a stiff neck. For exaltation comes neither from the east Nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, And exalts another” (Psa. 75:5-7).

(6) Avoid blaming the church for personal problems — “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3).

(7) Treat others as you wish to be treated — “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12).

(8) Have a teachable, cooperative attitude — “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you” (Heb. 13:17).

(9) Don’t oppose or hinder the church — “These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren” (Prov. 6:16-19).

(10) Be committed to forthrightness and truth — “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. “But if he will not hear you, take with you one or two more, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector” (Matt. 18:15-17).

(11) Be devoted to love and forgiveness — “He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him” (1 John 2:10).

(12) Don’t get caught up in the offenses of others — “Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend” (Psa. 15:1-3).

(13) Don’t personalize everything that’s preached — Obviously, every pastor preaches with the hope that everyone will take the message personally and apply it to his or her own life. “If the shoe fits, wear it.” However, there are always a few who think the minister is pointing his sermon specifically at them. This is a common misunderstanding which causes persons to get hurt.

Hope that helps in many ways and may the Lord light your path in your ministry

In His Grip,
Pastor J

It's Not about YOU!

2011-09-22T12:28:00.003-04:00

not long ago I picked up this book by a Student Pastor I met a few years back, Jonathan Mckee. In His book titled Connect, "real relationships in the world of isolation" I have to laugh as this is something I have been preaching and teaching for many years. If you have known me for any short time you would know I use the word "Connect" daily. I have learned over the past two years living in smaller towns that this word is something new as well as small groups. I believe one of the best ways to connect to students or any of God's people are within the context of a small group. Again this is something I have been stating for many years. It funny to see how new this is to some church bodies and areas within the USA. It's great to see over these past few years how people at getting on board with this and How God is working. It's all about relationships (Hello I just said the KEY word here)with students that go beyond the youth(or Student) room. It's hard at time teaching and coaching leaders over the years that have a view that student ministry is all about the "Yes Lords", The Prayers, the Bible readings, the Churchy Stuff and that it's much more. It's about thinking out side the box. (a side note on that... I have learned that most people don't really iknow what thinking out side the box really means) I think over time people took ministry and created what worked for them not understanding that ministry was not about creating around the people but ministry was the people. Oh how I could go on and on about this topic but I will stop before I brake someones toes. In a short on the other hand..... Jonathan Mckee book "Connect" is a great book that I hope opens many people eyes to this idea I have been teaching for many years!

In His Grip,

Busy Week but taking time to stop!

2011-09-21T23:02:00.002-04:00

Today we mourn another one of our local students... we keep family and friends in much needed prayer over the next few weeks. May this event bring them to the feet of Christ!

One of the greatess lies told by staten in life is we are unlovable, unholy, nothing but, pointless.

Did your know God has a great plan for your life. God has created us in His image Genesis 1:26-27. He created us for a purpose. God has a specific plan in mind for everyone.God's plan is for life, not death. The Word (Bible) says that both physical and spiritual death are the result of our sin and disobedience to God, but eternal life is a gift to those who receive it. Jesus taught that death and destruction are the work of “the thief” (Satan). He said, The thief comes only to steal and destroy..
John 8:44 says that Satan is a “murderer” and the “father of lies.” The feelings of despair that lead to suicide are caused by some of his lies. wants us to have life. God said: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" -John 10:10
5.Life belongs to God. It is never our place to take our own life or someone else's life. "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body" -1 Corinthians 6:19-20

There is hope!
"We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you" -Psalms 33:20-22

In His Grip,

Pastor J