The wife of noble character...

I am SO blessed that I am marrying an AMAZING woman very soon.  As I read Proverbs 31 tonight, I am reminded by God that I am one lucky man to be marrying a woman of this sort of character!

A few verses that stick out: 11, 12, 17, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, and 31.

Take a look at those verses when you get the chance.  When you do so, remember that this is the Word of God we are speaking of, and these things MATTER in our lives.  HAVING a wife of this noble character is nothing to overlook in our lives.  Just the same, BEING a wife of noble character is something every bride should strive for, as the Bible tells us the outcome of her life and efforts.

All I know is that I can't wait to have Kelly as my bride....Thanks God...you are SOOOO good!

Peace out!

Here's your sign...

On my way home from Paris today (Texas, that is), I saw a sign that read, "IS GOD SATISFIED WITH YOUR LIFE?".  I pondered a few things about that sign the rest of the way home.

First, it is pretty cool that someone went to the trouble in the first place to make that sign, and place it where people are ASSURED of seeing it traveling towards Texarkana from Paris on HWY 82.  When you see a sign like that, you have to answer it in some form or fashion.  It might be that you read it and ponder life, and it might be that you read it and think someone was really stupid for doing that.  It might also be any sort of thought that falls inbetween those two.  BUT....it makes you stop and acknowledge it.  You can't deny that.

Second, it makes my heart hurt knowing that some people will absolutely see that sign and laugh about the fact that they think my God and my Jesus are a joke.  I don't have to explain that---it just hurts me.

Finally, it made me think about what being satisfied means.  Does that mean that we are living sinless and perfect lives?  Does that mean that we are Bible-thumping extremists who are close minded and so far to one side that we can't even communicate with non-believers?  Personally, I think that question has alot to do with the word "striving".  I think if we put unecessary pressure on ourselves to be perfect---something we will NEVER achieve---we only set ourselves up for failure.  I think this sign should instead cause us to take a snapshot of today, then be motivated to move further along the path that leads to Godliness.  It might be baby steps.  It might take a looooooong time to get where you'd like.  Either way, it all gets chalked up towards growth and progress.  That is NEVER a bad thing.

So ask yourself that question.  What does it mean to you in your life?  How else do you see it?  I'd love to know and hear from you!

Make a difference out there this week!  Thanks a ton for stopping in...

Moves me...

Two times this weekend I was in a setting where a mass of people were just praising and worshipping.  I've gotta tell you, I was moved to tears a couple of times just standing in awe of how cool God is!

At the Mercy Me concert before the Ranger game Saturday, it amazed me to just sit and watch people, young and old, express their love and adoration for the Lord through music.  I think God showed me a deeper understanding of what it means to be free in Christ, and also gave me a better sense of freedom myself.

Then Sunday night, he only further solidified that in me, as I got to sit in our worship center at HBC and watch Kale and the crew ROCK the house in the name of the Lord! 

It literally just stopped everything else in my life for a few minutes.  I couldn't help but just sit and watch people singing, dancing, lifting their hands, shouting lyrics that set them free---and doing it there together inside a group of fellow believers.

Worship is SO powerful....BELIEVE IT!!!

Thanks God...you are so very good to me...

Reruns...

This morning, I wanted to bite the bullet and do my first "re-post".  So, here are a few that I find myself re-reading more than others:


4-18-2011
Preparation, preparation, preparation...

What are we living for?  What are YOU living for?  Each day, what is your purpose?  What are you working towards?  I don't mean in your job.  Or with your finances.  I mean the bigger picture.  Life. 

The way I see it, we are suppossed to be living out the Great Commission first and foremost.  From there, it is about growing with God more and more everyday.  Everyday we should be prepared to face any opportunity, circumstance, or detail that comes our way. 

What if tragedy here on earth struck your life right now?  Are you prepared to deal with it and handle it?  What would you turn to?  What things in your life today would be pushed away and deemed non-important in the event of that?  Well, then I ask, why are they in your life today?  If they have nothing to do with truth, facts, and growing in your faith in God---becoming more and more Christ-like---then they should have no place, right?

I can't help but look at all of the negative in the world and think about how much people tend to focus on bad things.  People love tearing each other down.  They love picking fights, bickering, selfishness, pride, arrogance, money, etc, etc, etc.  I could go on and on.  We are all guilty of it atleast sometimes.  I just hope I am always quick to recognize it and even quicker to stomp on it and remove it from my life.

Those things send a negative witness out there.  What does that tell others about our Savior when we act that way?  Are you a blessing to others, or a curse?

Just some food for thought this week. 

I watched the Passion of the Christ last night.  Man....that hurts to see.  To see those soldiers and people treating MY Jesus that way.  Breaks my heart.

Lord, forgive me where I fail you.  Fill my heart with your Word, humility, love, forgiveness, joy, and thankfulness.  Your peace and strength carry me through my everyday, and I give you all the glory for anything I am that is good.

I love you Lord.


6-2-2011
God's timing...

Well, here I sit at 6:30a.m., in my boxer briefs, watching Gus stab his horse in Lonesome Dove.  LOL.  I have been awake spending time with God since 4:23a.m.  Definitely God's timing, not mine.  And definitely some serious things to think about on my mind.

You know, I have gone through a divorce.  And as I stare some other relationship issues in the face, God has taken me to 1 Corinthians 13 this morning in pursuit of his truth and will for my life.  Not easy.  And if you are in a marriage or relationship this morning, then I hope you take the rest of this to heart.

Have you closely read that chapter?  Well, let's start further back.  Do you WANT God's best for your life?  Do you want a relationship and love to be ALL that HE wants it to be for you?  If the answer is yes, then think about these verses and what God means in them.  If the answer is no, then you might as well prepare for heartache and get on your own and move on!

God's word is clear.

In verse 2, towards the beginning of the "love" chapter, it states that "and if I have a faith that can move mountians, but have not love, then I am nothing".  Wow.  When you take God's word literally, as we are suppossed to, that hits home.  Who among us wants to be nothing?  God did not create us for that!

Verse 6 says that "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth".  Powerful stuff.  Are we daily living in truth?  Facts are, we either choose God in a situation, or we don't.

Verse 8 says that "Love never fails".  Never is a STRONG word.  Don't most people say "never say never"?  God said never right there.  STRONG.

But the verse that speaks to me most this morning and convicts me is verse 7.  "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres."  Always is another of those strong words.  Always is always.  I didn't do that in my marriage, but praise God that I have learned to give that my best now. 

What does it mean to "protect" love?  Think about that.  To me, it means that in EVERY instance, if you truly love someone, you think of them and honor both God and them by making the choices that respects that love.  You don't flirt, you don't leave yourself open to known temptations or past failures Satan has used against you, you proactively and selflessly put the other first, and most of all, you hold yourself accountable to seeking God with all you have to be in the best position possible to honor that love.  To me, that is TRUE, GODLY LOVE. 

That is where it is on us.  I suffer consequences in my life for not pursuing God first in my marriage.  My beautiful children suffer because of my actions.  That isn't easy to live with, but God is faithful and merciful and has worked in this.  I have accepted that, and have made the changes that I needed to make so that I can best avoid EVER having that happen again.  I want only God's best when it comes to love and a love relationship.  Any of us that say we want that have an INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTABILITY in our own lives that we HAVE to live to.  Period.  God wants and has called us to NO less.  Again, think about that.

So wherever you are today, whatever situation in a love relationship you are in, or not in, think about what God says about love.  Think not only of what it should look like, but even more about YOUR part in honoring God in love. 

Then think about when we say we love God.  Do we really show it?  Do we only think about human love relationships when we read that chapter in 1 Corinthians?  Or do we rightly hold our love relationship with God to the same standards?

Again, think about that...


There are three or four others that I often find myself going back to for encouragement.  I will leave those for another "re-post" day, seeing as how that was alot of reading right there already! 

I pray your weekend is filled with great joy, and that you ask God to show you the many ways that he blesses you....then just listen....he is so very faithful!!!

Now, off to the Ranger game!!!

Stoked...

I am SO excited about heading to Dallas with Kelly and our boys to hit the Ranger game vs the Angels!  Great win tonight, so should be a good one!  And MERCY ME is playing a concert before the game!!!!!

Tonight was one of the greatest ever in my life, and I am super-excited to go through the rest of this weekend!!!

Once again...

Random Thoughts by Tommy...

-My Rangers need to get their crap together.  If the playoffs had started this week, we would've been playing Boston with home-field advantage...well...Boston came in here and beat the stinkin doo out of us!!!  Gotta right this ship boys!  Especially while I'm there Saturday night hearing Mercy Me and taking in a game vs the Halo's!!!

-GOP nomination will be interesting this year.  I haven't started listening to each candidate's specific platforms yet, but I am excited to do so soon.  I'd love to see a debate between Chris Christie, Rick Perry, Michelle Bachman, and Sarah Palin....now THAT would be some TV!

-Jeb Bush is showing up alot on Fox News....hmmm...I'm just saying....I think he makes a run at some point in the future.  Not this year, but down the road.  I have told many people that my own personal opinion is that W's book "Decision Points" coupled with Obama being the village idiot would greatly open that door for the Bush dynasty to put another notch in the belt...

-The Miami Hurricanes BETTER get the death penalty from the NCAA.  This sure ain't their first rodeo!!!

-I love coaching kids.  I love seeing the look that they get in their eye and the confidence they gain when they know without a shadow of a doubt that you believe in them.  Nothing like it.  As MJ said, "I believe the children are our future......"  Encourage a child this week.  You WILL make a difference in their life!!

-Three shows I find myself most watching these days:  Billy the Exterminator, Hillbilly Hand Fishin, and Storage Wars

-I hope you see everyone else as more important than yourself.  Life is so much better when we take the "us" out of it.  Make it about someone else.  Focus on not expecting anything back, but rather only on showing kindness to others.  Watch what happens....

-I'm excited and ready for bounceback seasons from my Cowboys and my Horns!!!  WOOOHOOO!!!

Have an awesome Friday!!!!!!!!!!

Forgiveness...

I wanna kick a shout out to Chad for providing some timely words today...thanks brother!

Hebrews 10:22
let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water

Matthew 6:14-15
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.


Some great words right there.  The verse in Hebrews is such a sweet one that offers a reminder of God's forgiveness to us via the blood of Jesus.  Then the passage in Matthew is a great reminder from Christ himself to us in how we should act towards others.  The thing that most stuck out to me in that is that sometimes it seems that we hold things against people that weren't actually even done to us in the first place!  I guess that we see clearly how that verse matters, since if we can't or won't forgive, we end up harboring the anger or frustration inside of ourselves as long as we can stand it.  Then, since we obviously don't wanna take it to God at that point and wanna act like we can hide it from him although we all know better, we go to someone else with our frustration and start the gossip and not-my-business train. WHOOT WHOOT, ALL ABOARD!!

I pray I get better at handling these things the right way all of the time.  Lord, draw me closer to you, and keep your words and commands close to my heart, that I might live my life bringing you as much glory as possible.  Thanks for Jesus, our example.  Make me more like him, Lord.

Have a great Wednesday out there! 

To and fro...

It is amazing what God allows us to see when we want to see more.  Tonight I had the opportunity to just hang out with a guy I think alot of and just chill.  Some talking, some nachos, some baseball---just good ole fellowshippin!  What started out as us setting a chance to just get together, God turned into an opportunity to bless and teach both of us.  We are both at different places and going through different things in our lives, yet God used one common encounter to show us each many different things individually.  It's amazing what God can do with an open mind, a willingness to learn, a willingness to share, and a desire for growth.   

That is just some pretty awesome stuff.  Thanks God.

Like Forrest Gump says, "that's all I've got to say about that."

Remember, we are all either running from something or working towards something.  The difference in those two things is attitude and outlook.  Think about that...

None But Jesus...

I try to always give all I have to our praise and worship time at church Sunday mornings, but sometimes God uses certain songs or moments to really speak to me moreso than others.  This morning, he used "None But Jesus" by Hillsong to do just that. 

I can't even tell you the words of the song right now.  What I CAN tell you is that you should look it up and listen to it!

I was standing there listening to it during church, and as the song went on, all I could do was think of all the miracles that are in the Bible, and also was picturing myself living in the days of Jesus.  I pictured myself as one of the sinners that had the opportunity to have a literal and physical encounter with him, and what it might have been like to walk away from that, living a life that was forever changed!  Telling people daily every chance I got how great Christ is, and that my life was never the same after I came to know him!  What a journey we are all on as his children...

I thank God for moments like that.  I thank him for miracles that we can read about, and know that they are TRUE and FACTUAL, just as his word is.  I thank God that he STILL performs miracles today. 

My faith is in you, Lord.

Just in awe...

I find it amazing that God reveals things to us.  I had an instance of that today.  I have more peace and direction in my life than I feel like I have ever had.  God today decided to use this period to stop me and reveal some lessons that I have had the pleasure of learning.  The biggest takeaways from this for me are that the Bible is SO real and true, and also that each and every choice we make each and every day leads to a certain outcome---it is just a matter of which road that outcome is on.  For example, when I eat a blizzard, I know what path that is leading me down.  When I refrain and make a healthier choice more often, I go down a better road personally and physically.  It's about knowing and desiring the best for our own lives, and trusting the Spirit to lead us down THAT path and towards THOSE outcomes.

Anyway, I just wanted to give God glory for how awesome and powerful he is tonight! 

Four points...

Four things that I put a "*" next to in the chapter on kindness and goodness from one of the books I am reading, "The Practice of Godliness", by Jerry Bridges:

-If we feel our particular job does not allow us to genuinely meet the needs of people, we ought to prayerfully consider a change

-Good deeds should begin at home

-Remember that we are responsible not for doing all of the good that needs to be done in the world, but rather just what God has planned for us

-We always have time to do what God wants us to do

Think about those four statements for a second.  If we take them and apply them to our lives, we will not only change our outlook and attitude to one of more positivity than wherever we might be today, but we will also GREATLY impact and SHOW those around us and in our circle of influence a wonderful example of what a joyous, peaceful, and happy life looks like!

Enjoy your weekend!

Drifting...

Are you just drifting along through life?  Do you know which way you are going?  Do you care???

If you are seeking answers and direction, then I encourage you TODAY to write down goals and things that you think about or want to accomplish.  Then look that list over and think about the things that are currently in your life that are getting in the way---AND KICK THEM THE CRAP OUT OF YOUR LIFE IMMEDIATELY!!!  I find that once I take the thought from in my head and actually put it on paper, it becomes so much more real, and I can then start thinking about the "how to", not just the "what is it"!!!  It gives me a greater sense of direction and focus.  I love that feeling!!!

Just a little somethin somethin to ponder on :)

Just some of many...

Here are just some of the many things that occurred in my day to make it fantastic:

-A nurse called needing samples of my drug because her doctors are using them all up
-I got to see one of my best friends, his wife, his daughter, and his granddaughter today
-I got to see Cheffrey and eat one of his burgers
-I had lunch with a new buddy that I am becoming fast friends with, and God is going to use that
-My bills are paid
-I have cleaned out alot of my apartment's closets and have things to take to sell or give away
-My quiet time was fantastic
-I learned how to pray specifically for a few people
-A friend's son had a successful procedure that will make that child's life SO much better
-I didn't get to see my girl or her boys, but I know they are having a blast together on vacation
-I found out she bought me something today
-I bought her a tiny little something today
-I fell more in love today
-I got to cook with my kids
-I played Yahtzee with my kids
-I got to do baths and showers with my kids
-I got to clean and do work around my apartment with my kids
-I got to snuggle with my kids and kiss them goodnight on their sweet little faces
-I bought groceries....some people can't
-I got to swim with my kids
-I got to hear my mom's voice
-I get to watch my Rangers

I could go on and on....but I just wanted to share the things I LOOK FOR in my day.  The blessings are there because I choose to see them as such, and I thank God so very much for all of the simple and small things in my life.  God, you are SO good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Be a blessing and make a difference out there! 

Continuously evolving...

I am so thankful that as we walk with the Holy Spirit, we continue to be molded and shaped differently than we ever were before.  I know I constantly have to try to stay on top of where I am in proximity with what the Spirit is telling me, because it is WAY to easy to get off of the right track and back on our own.  We are human, and should expect nothing less than that! 

As I posted a few weeks ago, I am continuing on a journey towards simplicity.  It is easy for me to stay "busy" and "involved" because that is my heart, and I sincerely love people and want the best for them.  I have learned that even our best qualities can be used the wrong way if we don't put all reliance of how to use them on the Lord.  I am trying to work towards a more "quiet" life, as we are called to have.  What specifically that means to each of us, I am learning, and not quite sure of yet.  What it means for ME is that I have to continue to check friendships and their importance.  Not that people aren't important, but about whether the amount of effort, etc, going into it is what God wants.  I have to continually be watching where my time and efforts are spent, and then ask if that is the best use of those things.  As God reveals the path ahead of me, I want to be doing my best to be available to give the things he blesses me with ALL of the attention and care that they require and deserve!  After all, they are gifts from him!

I have pulled out a "God's Little Instruction Book For Men" paperback book and put it here by my bed on my nightstand.  I LOVE things like this!  They are incredibly SIMPLE and filled with just alot of meat that we can apply immediately and boldly to our lives.  These kinds of books provide great truths and simple facts that we can quickly memorize, stand firmly on, and share as we allow God to mold us.  I want to list a few that stood out to me tonight:

-Seek God first and the things you want will seek YOU
-If I take care of my character, my reputation will take care of itself
-Adversity causes some men to break; others to break records
-Conquer yourself rather than the world
-A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down

The following three were my absolute favorites:

-Experience is not what happens to a man, it's what a man does with what happens to him
-Courage is contagious.  When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened
-A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd

Think about those.  Can you use any of those to inspire positive change that you are desiring in your life?

I thank God with my whole heart for forgiveness and cleansing of my sins.  My heart's desire is to wake up everyday and do my best to listen to God, let the Spirit guide me, be a better man than the day before, and be thankful for what I have as oppossed to upset about what I don't.  I just wanna do my part.  I trust the Lord with the rest!!!

God, you are SOOOOOOOOOOOOO good!  Thanks for blessing me with amazing things in my life, and for showing me that a future with those blessings from you is what I want to spend everyday investing in!

A simple fella...

I struggle with things just like everyone else.  Heck, we all have things that we need to work on, right?  Well, today, one of my issues in life is how much to care or not care about our government and economy.  One one hand, I do care alot.  It matters to me, to my kids, for the greater good, etc.  It has had great days, and shouldn't be in the state it is in currently.  One the other hand though, what do we expect to happen when we have self-serving people in our government as elected leaders, who are out for their own agenda, and DO NOT actually make decisions based on the greater good?

I'm just a simple fella.  I will admit quickly that I don't understand everything.  Most people are probably way more intelligent than I am.  What I do know though is that everything in life comes down to good or bad, of God of not of God, and all is dictated by our attitudes and choices. 

Proverbs 14:22
Do not those who plot evil go astray?  But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.

Most people hear or see the word "evil" and think crazy demonic devil-worshipping.  I see evil simply as the opposite of good.  Again, attitude is everything.  So when it comes to our elected leaders (yes, a reminder that this IS actually OUR own fault), I get frustrated that many get elected and someone is already in their back pocket for helping and their whole agenda is of self-promotion and ultimately self-serving.  Can good things come from that?  Sure.  But is that necessarily acting on what is BEST for people?  NO!

Three key words from each half of that verse to take quick note of:
-the first half---plot, evil, astray
-the second half---good, love, faithfulness

Seeing as how I could get fired up over this topic, I am going to wrap it up with two quick things.  The first is how this verse applies to your own life.  What is your agenda?  Is it yours, or is it God's?  The second is asking you to join me in praying for our elected leaders, both current and future.  We have important obligations as citizens to elect the right people for the right reasons.  We also have a voice we can use to let these public officials know what we think, and what we will and won't stand for.  USE IT!  But first, pray with me today and going forward that God will reveal to us the best people for these jobs.  God is good, and our faith and trust have to be in him first.  Seems to me that we would be better off if we elected HIM in our hearts and lives FIRST, then follow his lead and see how everything plays out.

Again though, I'm just a simple fella...

Money ain't a thang...

Proverbs 13:8
A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat.

Think people have been FREAKING out over dinero this week????  I called Kelly one day and said, "It sure is nice to just have nothing, so that this crap doesn't even phase me!"

I think this verse has made alot of sense to me this week, as we have seen SUCH a strong focus on the economy.  Not only how it fares overall, but also what it does minute-to-minute.  Honestly, I couldn't care less.  Proverbs 30 reminds me that I ONLY want my daily bread, and if I have more or less, I might focus too much on that, and lose sight of what matters most.

The thing that I feel MOST reminded of from God this week in regards to all of this is the fact that he is bigger than everything.  You hear that?  EVERYTHING!!!  So our money is his money.  Our time is his time.  Our life is in his control.  So why in the crap worry about this?  He has, is, and will always be over everything.  He will always provide for us, no matter what!  As his children, he has promised us that.  So WHY doubt God???

I'm just sayin....think about it!

I wanna say a Happy Birthday to my grandpa Tommy Wilson today.  He died when my mom was 17, so I never got the chance to know him.  Also, today marks the one-year anniversary of the passing of my Mema.  I miss you Betty Wilson! 

I'm VERY excited...

I am so excited that this Sunday morning I will be going to hear Pete Chiofalo preach over in Keller.  He was mentioned in a blog of mine a few days ago, and I haven't actually seen him in years. 

I can't wait! 

I am thankful that God impressed in my heart that I should go, as there aren't many opportunities to enjoy things like this.  It's the little things in life that sure do matter :)

How often do you MAKE the time to do something out of your routine??? 

Have an awesome weekend!!!

A special day...

I want to wish my folks a very Happy Anniversary today!  They have been married 39 years this year...I think!

Either way, I wanted to just stop and list a few things that I love and appreciate about them on their special day:

-they have ALWAYS taken wonderful care of me
-they have taught me and given me everything they possibly can to make sure I can live my best life
-they adore their grandchildren
-they have always worked hard
-they are very caring
-I find myself more and more like them as I get older
-they care about the things that matter, and put their time and effort into that
-even when we don't see eye to eye, we are committed to what's best and working together no matter what
-they always acted out of what's best for me and my sister, not selfish gain
-they spend time trying to understand me and what matters to me
-they taught us to be appreciative of what we have, not focused on what we don't

Mom and Dad, I love you, and I thank God for you.  I love getting closer and closer with you both---not only as a son, but also as a friend---as I get older.

Thanks for being who you are, and have an awesome anniversary!

The sound of music...

There is nothing to me like music.  There is a song for every circumstance, emotion, feeling, stage of life, etc.  I have been fortunate enough to be a part of music from a performance or live aspect since junior high up until just a few years ago.  That is one of the things I hope that I get to change sooner than later---God giving me an opportunity to get back to singing somewhere.  I sure miss it. 

I thank God for giving so many people musical talent that the rest of us can enjoy.  I know so many different songs have provided me encouragement and spoken to me at different stages of my life.

Thanks for creating music, Lord :) 

Difference makers...

I know I try to encourage each of us at the end of most of my posts to make a difference out there.  Tonight, I want to just point out a few people that have made a huge impact in my life.

First, I want to clarify this.  I have many friends and relatives that are an ongoing part of the growth in my life.  These people probably won't be mentioned here.  What I am speaking of tonight and focusing on are those that made a difference at a point, yet it was YEARS later before I ever understood just how much of a difference they made.

So, here we go...

There was a family I was close to growing up that was like a second family to me.  It was the Jarrett's.  John Jarrett was one of my closest friends throughout my school years, and his parents, David and Jane, were a HUGE influence on me.  In fact, the more I go through life, them more I actually still think about them and who they are, and what I saw from them.  They were a God-fearing couple that kept each other first, yet had such big and loving hearts that everyone they came in contact with felt like they were the most important people in the world!  I know they prayed for me, loved me, taught me, and accepted me---for who I was---yet still always desired more for me and saw what my potential could be as a person.  I saw how they taught their children, expressed their love openly for their children, yet still disciplined them and held them accountable.  When I accepted Christ, Jane Jarrett was the first person I thought of.  I think God was opening my eyes to how he had been surrounding me with wonderful people all along my path, and letting me see how he had been working all the time!  I can honestly sit here and say that if there were two people I wish I saw more and had more consistent contact and communication with, there is NO doubt it would be David and Jane Jarrett.  If you two ever happen to read this, I hope you know I love you with my whole heart!

I am a big believer in Young Life.  For me, it is ideal.  I see why most people are very turned off by "church" and want nothing to do with it.  I have said here before that if I didn't know Jesus already and went to most churches today, I'd want nothing to do with him.  Young Life is different.  It is geared at high school students, and most times does not actually meet at a church.  It is more about relationship building and influencing students at a very important time in their lives, where many decisions will be made, habits formed, and paths laid out.  Pete Chiofalo was our YL leader at Trinity High School.  I can't say alot about Pete, but I can tell you that he had a huge impact on my life.  After I was saved, as I have grown in my walk, God has laid Pete on my heart as an example.  He was a guy who was married and had a young child, yet just opened his home, heart, and life up for kids he didn't even know.  He made himself available.  See, I am a HUGE believer that if you want to give something to someone that actually matters, give them your TIME.  It's easy to write a check and give money.  We can always find, make, or get more of that.  But time is measured.  We don't get more than we have, yet we MAKE time for the things we find important.  So therefore, Pete gave ALOT in my eyes!  I had very limited interaction with Pete then, and have had only one encounter since then, but I can tell you that God was all over EVERY bit of all of them, and I know Pete is still blessing and impacting lives as he pastors a church over in Keller, TX.  If you are close by, find him and go see him!

While enjoying the five-year plan at SFA, I was saved.  It was probably right at the midway point.  After that, I got involved singing and attending at Oak Grove Baptist Church.  Jim Carter was the pastor, and his wife Marcy and all of their awesome children became a huge part of my life.  While I love them all, and they all loved me unconditionally, there was one of them that really stood out.  It was their son, JC.  The main reason is that he was probably one of the greatest all-around guys I had met to that point, and that still holds true today.  He really encouraged me and hammered life-lessons in every chance he got.  He didn't judge me or act like he was better than me.  All this while being a young man going through the same things in life that I was---the difference was the integrity he showed every step of the way.  His convictions are what guided him, and it was VERY clear to me that those convictions came from reading the Bible, trusting God, knowing Jesus, and walking daily with the Holy Spirit.  JC doesn't lead with words, he leads by example.  I could go on and on about him.  I am fortunate to know him, and thankful God put him in my life.  I love you J.

Going through a divorce was one of the toughest things I have ever had to deal with, and I am the one that wanted it!  Either way, I was living at the time where most of the people in my life were all related to my church.  My circle was mostly maintained inside those walls as far as my relationships and my friendships.  So when this happened, I stopped going there, and according to others, was on a path straight to hell.  There was really only one person that unconditionally loved me and showed me Jesus through that, and that is one of my closest friends Chris Williams.  We are still very tight today, and I am sure glad.  I had the chance while we were at church together to watch him grow and change as he grew closer to God.  I also know my failures hurt him as a person.  That is why it is even more impressive to me and encouraging to me to know that although his human view of my actions and my life were frustrating and he didn't personally agree with, he still NEVER quit on me.  That is the kind of thing that makes a HUGE difference in someone's life.  Now, I know he probably wanted to at times, and I know he felt pressure from others too bail on me, but he didn't.  That to me is an AMAZING example of going out on faith and trusting God.  How many of us would stand up to that kind of peer pressure?  To know that the people we fellowship with don't agree with what we are doing, yet we stand up for what we believe NO MATTER WHAT, because we are passionnately seeking to follow the Lord and be Jesus in someone else's life.  I am forever indebted to Chris for the example he has been to me and in my life.  He has taught me so much through his humility, his heart, and his actions.  Chris, thank you, and I love you brother.  I'd lay down my life for you.


So who are these people in your life?  Have you ever thought about that?  More importantly, are you living to try to be available to be this in someone else's life?

Get out there and change the world this week!!!

My time of the month...

Proverbs 6:23 says:
"For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life"

That is one simple yet profound statement---and my life, like many others out there, is an example of that.   Makes this a bit of a bittersweet verse.
The "bitter" part of that for me is that like anyone else, I have made mistakes in my past.  Whether in relationships, finances, friendships, etc...I think we all can stop and find many times that we were playing the game of life nowhere near where we should have been.  We have all hurt people at some time or another.  That is a hard thing to think about, as most times we stop and think of all of the missed opportunities, or how things could be different now "if I had only...".  Sin is present everywhere in our lives, whether we look at the past, present, or future.  That is something we will NEVER be able to avoid! 

Enough bitter crap though---let's get to the good stuff.  The "sweet".  God is GOOD!  As his child, the Word tells me that I am a new creature.  A new being.  My old is washed away, my sins both past and future are forgiven, and I have a best friend and companion in the Holy Spirit that walks with me EVERY second!  The last part of the verse in Proverbs talk about correction being the way to life.  I WANT THE BEST LIFE GOD CAN GIVE ME!  So therefore, I am so very thankful for his discipline and for him teaching me, humbling me, molding me, cleansing me, and showing me the path that he wants me to be on.  Am I perfect?  Not a chance...but I know that daily, I am listening for what God is trying to tell me.  I am daily trying to just see his purpose for me in my life, and I have peace and security in who I am, since I am his child before I am anything.  THAT is priceless.  THAT is good. 

I don't know what you are dealing with today.  I don't know if you have a relationship with Jesus.  What I DO know is that we all sin.  We all have to deal with that, and if we don't, Satan will hold that in front of us, and we will never be able to fully focus on what God is trying to do in and through us. 

What I hope you get out of this is that although personal failures aren't good, and hurt us and others, they still can be used for good as we move forward, because God can use ANYTHING for good and for his glory.  We should never settle or let our past hold us down in bondage.  Every single day brings a new day, where we can make new choices, and live as new creatures, focused on making a difference and changing the world---by being as authentic as possible.

BELIEVE THAT!!!

REALLY think about this...

When was the last time you undeniably saw the Spirit at work in or around you?

That question comes from "Forgotten God" by Francis Chan.  I like to underline important things that stick out to me as I read.  I can tell you that probably 35-40% of the first chapter of this book is underlined.  It is a very challenging book to read, as it really challenges who we are, and where our faith truly stands.  How much do we rely on the Spirit?  Does our life reflect true faith?  Do we show in our day that we are different as believers? 

Honestly, there are some things in here that slap me right in the face.  I have had to stop and look at my life in order to make sure I am going the right direction. 

I highly encourage you to pick this book up, as it will cause you to stop and look at things from a view that you probably haven't stopped to look at life from.

Time to hit the sack...gotta be ready and refreshed for Laces of Grace in the morning!

Doing good...

Galatians 6:10
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers.

What a great verse.  Our men's group is has been reading on kindness and goodness this week, and their roles in our lives.  This is the first verse mentioned in the chapter, and it really stuck out to me.  Anyone that has followed my warped mind knows that I am a lover of "key words" and what they should call us to do or think.  So having said that, I am going to type that verse out again, but throw some emphasis in a few areas that jumped out at me:

THEREFORE, as we have OPPORTUNITY, let us DO GOOD to ALL PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY those who BELONG to the family of believers.

Therefore- is emphasized here because any time we see that word in the Bible, it tells us to read ahead, because we have been given instruction and reasoning leading up to where we see it.

Opportunity- opportunity is both given and made.  Sometimes it falls in our laps, and that is great.  But alot of times it is up to us to create and faithfully pursue opportunity.  When it comes to doing good, we should be of the mindset and disposition to be able to react to anything in kindness and goodness, as well as proactively show others kindness and goodness.

Do good- What does that look like?  It's the little things in life that make the biggest differences....think about that.

All people- This is pretty self-explanatory.  All people is ALL people.  The nice ones, the terds, and all of those that fall inbetween!

Especially- One of those key words.  So we should be doing this to all people anyway, as we see leading up to this in the verse.  But God doesn't stop there.  Just for extra emphasis, he clearly reminds us how we should be towards those that believe as we do.  How would you say you are doing at that in your life day-to-day?  What can you do to better live this out as God wants you to?

Belong- It only takes one thing to belong to this family.  Anyone who has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior is a  member, and we are clearly shown how we should treat this family that we are members of.  Will talked this morning that our human families are sometimes the ones that we naturally show our worst to, and take for granted.  He is right about that, and it takes effort of walking and growing with God daily to be sure we are giving our best to not only our human families that God has given us, but also our family of believers.  God wouldn't lay this verse out if that family wasn't extremely important to him, and we need to be very aware of that fact!

I know it is easy to just get caught up in reading verses, and sometimes we don't see what all can really be taken from just one, but this is one that in the course of this book, really stood out to me.  It seems our world has less and less patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, helpfulness, faithfulness, love, etc.  That is sad, seeing as how NOW is probably when we need these things the MOST!  It is on us as people to cover ourselves in these things, and be a light as we walk out there and live each and every day, offering all of these traits and more to a hurting world.

God's Word is SO very good....I am so VERY thankful for it, and for the direction and wisdom it provides!

Almost broke the tv...

Glad I didn't though, because it wasn't mine!!!

I was watching The Bachelorette last night with my lady, and was reminded MANY times just how ridiculous and unrealistic that show is!  I think it hurt more when she chose the dude that she did, because I definitely had a mancrush on Ben!  LOL!!

I watch that show while remembering and thinking about my life values, morals, goals, etc.  So my first lesson was one I already know---I can only control me and my life, and others choices aren't my business, and usually have absolutely zero effect on my future.  The girl choosing has her own things she is looking for, and it is not for me too judge right or wrong.  All I can do is take other things I see or hear and hold them against what I believe to further strengthen or modify my belief set. 

Another thing I have a really hard time with is her "loving" one guy, while at the same time she is still tonguing-down with other dudes!  How do you have those suppossedly true feelings for a person, but still be able to live with yourself giving all that to another?  Baffles me...just baffles me.  Of course, these ARE people that apparently suck at relationships to this point in their lives, so I guess we should expect anything!!

And do you think that real people build real-life relationships living in the slums of FIJI???????  REALLY???????  "Hey, let's take a trip in a helicopter today, then fly in a plane to some island for dinner"....uh....yeah...whatever!  I looked over at Kelly and reminded her that I can barely afford to take her to eat at Fuji's, so FORGET Fiji!!!!!

Finally, the last thing (of many!) that I want to mention is being blessed and content in my own life.  As I watched the events unfold, and watched the choice come down, I was so glad to feel myself feeling lucky as a person for all of the blessings that God allows into my life daily.  As a cup-half-full kind of dude, I thank God for bs like these unrealistic shows, because they always make me stop and thank him for simplicity, peace, and joy.  That the reality of pursuing him and his ways will ALWAYS ultimately lead to him and his blessings.  I enjoy poking at the show, and don't mind knowing that it is on tv and not a true picture of real life----but the picture of Christ on the cross IS a picture of that---it is the picture of the sacrifice that results in us having the opportunity for the BEST life! 

I will take that all day long...so take your rose and shove it Bachelorette!

Hope your week ROCKS!!! 

Know your role...

As I was driving down the interstate this morning headed to meet my boss, I was listening to ESPN Radio, and they were recapping the Angels/Tigers game from yesterday.  For those of you that don't know what happened in that game, Tigers pithcer Justin Verlander had a no-hitter going through seven innings, and then Erick Aybar of the Angels came up and tried to get on base by bunting.  He ended up on second in a 3-0 game that the Tigers were leading after Verlander fielded the bunt and errantly threw to first.  After the game, Verlander was pretty ugly about the fact that Aybar was trying to get on base by bunting during his potential historic game.

Justin Verlander---SERIOUSLY??????

Does he not understand that Aybar is paid by the Angels organization to help his team win baseball games?  His job is NOT to help Mr. Verlander protect his potential no-hitter!!!!  I could go on and on about this, but I will stop there.

After hearing this, I got to thinking about life (I do that alot).  I got to wondering how often I get confused as to my role in certain things, just as Verlander was confused as to Aybar's. 

I think it is very easy for any of us to think of ourselves as more than we are.  I am just as guilty as any other in this, and I think it is very natural.  As we strive for growth in our lives individually, we feel better about who we are and how much we can be used in different areas, etc.  That is where we need to remember checks and balances, and knowing our roles.  Doing this will keep us in healthier situations and conversations.  Not an easy thing to do, but definitely necessary!

I hope your Monday was fantastic, and that you are ready for a GREAT rest of the week out there!  And remember, no matter what you are going through, God is bigger than EVERYTHING, and he can be the thing that makes the difference in your life, so that you can make a difference in another's!  LET HIM!!!

Sometime's you just gotta do whatcha gotta do...

I loved church this morning.  Terry preached on freedom through forgiveness.  Our whole worship set was designed around this, and there were some powerful words about the healing hands of God, and what forgiveness and freedom we have as children of him through the blood of Jesus.  Two things stuck out to me during the worship service.  The first is that I LOVE just closing my eyes and listening to the voices of the whole church singing together.  It just moves me.  Very powerful.

The second involves healing.  Listening to the songs, and hearing the words, it reminded me that I am in a much better place than I was in my past.  Does that mean that my past was terrible?  No, not at all.  What it does mean is that I recognize that I have a much better life today as I grow with Christ than I did before.  I find that powerful, too.  Powerful in the sense that it would be very easy to sit and reflect on negative, or failures, or wrongs I have done.  Yet instead, Jesus died for me and for my sin.  God never intended for me to be bogged down in failures, but rather be bathed in hope and a future.  A wonderful future. 

So there lies the next step in my life.  I sat there this morning thinking about how I got from one place to another.  The answer was through self-checking.  That process involves me and God.  So today I am sitting and asking the Lord to reveal to me and show me areas where I can get better, and more Christ-like, in my life.  We all always have areas we can work on.  Do you do that?  Have you done that?  If you haven't, I want to share with you the process I go through---the whole process:

-First, I have to have a heart that recognizes I am a sinner.  I desire to be my best, but will NEVER be perfect.  That is hard for any of us to have to grasp--especially those of us who strive to better ourselves all of the time.  In working to be better, we have to have a point that we are working towards, which is perfection.  Compared to perfection, we are mere dirt.  The other hard part about bettering oursleves is recognizing the fact that life happens in peaks and valleys.  There will always be times that we are further away from where we want to be.

-So before I write down the things I hear, I try to focus in as I think on the things that matter most to me.  I want to be thinking about those things, as they are the priorities that I want my life focused around. 

-Here is the list of things today that I have written down and dated so I can go back and check in on how I feel like I am progressing:
       -I want to detach more from things and people that don't serve as a positive in my life
       -I want to check relationships and set boundaries in them that better honor God and my loved ones
       -I need to adjust my routine and analyze my free time and how I spend it
       -I desire to keep pressing on towards more and more simplicity, and a quiet and honorable life
       -I want to fill my time with focusing on only my responsibilities, productive things, and my loved ones

-From here, I will visit this list often.  I want to be focused on moving forward in my life with the good things God has already given me, and allow him to help me see results in these other areas.  Doing that will help me be a better man, a better mate, a better dad, a better friend, a better christian, a better servant, more forgiving, more encouraging, more loving, a better witness, and continue to press towards being more Christ-like.


I definitely am blessed.  I know that.  I don't deserve the things and love I have, but I also understand that God is bigger than everything, and he desires for me to live a full, blessed, and productive life.  So I want to be sure and do my best in honoring him and growing more like Jesus all of the time.  I just want to be my best...


Lord, you are the giver of life.  You are good.  I know that I am a sinner, and without you, I am nothing.  I fail you daily.  I know, too, that you are my maker, and my life has purpose.   I ask you to forgive me for where I have failed you, and cleanse me of those sins.  Allow the Holy Spirit to better lead my life, specifically in the areas that you have laid on my heart today in our time together.  Let others see you in me, and see the good in me.  You have filled my life with SO many wonderful things, and I want to honor them, knowing that in doing that, I honor you.  Thank you God for changing my life, and for providing me a hope and a future.  I give you all of the glory---for everything.  Thank you also for Jesus and his blood.  I love you, Lord.

It's that time again...

Every once in a while, I think it is important to share my heart and vision for this blog.  I know new people start reading or following all of the time, and I don't expect them to go hunt down a post somewhere that might explain this for them!

This blog is part of my ministry.  Ministry is one of those words that I think people all see in a different way.  Ministry to me is something you proactively do to try to make a difference in someone's life.  It doesn't mean that you yourself are perfect, it doesnt mean that it is directly involved with a church, and it doesn't mean you think you are better than others.  It is just giving of one's self in an area where God has given you a burden.  Make sense?

Having said that, this started out as something for me that was geared more towards guys maybe.  But as time has gone on, I am excited that both men and women follow this, and the content is such that it directly can be used by each and every one of us.  I had thought of changing the name, but don't see why I would need to!

I know some people have tried to comment and couldn't before. I asked the blog-god's, and they told me that there was some kind of bug, and I reset something so that now ANYONE AND EVERYONE can comment freely.  I ask that you do.  If you have even one thing that comes to mind when you read this, please share.  It is my firm belief that when we accept that none of us is perfect, that we all struggle, and we just try to be as authentic as possible, that is where true growth can happen.  That is where walls are broken down and we can be in a better position to be used as well as grow ourselves.  God's power is perfected in our weakness!!!   But it all starts with our individual willingness to be a part and get involved!

So please tell others.  Save this website somewhere that you can easily access it.  I try to write about five times per week, so chances are that there will be something new when you stop in!

Lastly, thank you.  Thank you for the encouragement, the prayers, support, and for taking a minute out of your busy and hectic day to read the things that I think and write about.  It means more to me that you know!!

Make a difference out there today.  Every day brings new opportunity to change someone's life, or to even make a change in your own life!  Just decide that you want to see and take part in that!  You'll never regret it!!!

Be mindful of what you're doing with your tongue...

You know, I really wish this article was about french kissing---but it isn't!  Rather, it is about the words we say.

I want to mention two ways that this creeps up on us and can cause us harm.  One is just in saying evil and harmful things towards others.  Proverbs, among many other places, tells us OFTEN about the negative that comes from evil tongues and words.  It also speaks to the harm that will come to those who choose to go this route.

The second way is one that we might not pay as much attention to.  It is where we say things that we know are true and right, but we aren't careful or put needed thought into how we say it.  This can be worse than the first way!  The reason is because we know we are speaking with a right heart and good intentions, yet the person hearing on the other end might not be, or is just hearing what we aren't saying!  Then people pass it along to others with how they heard it, or just walk away and build up bitterness at something that was never meant to be that way.

Our communication with others is SO important.  You CANNOT have enough good communication with the most important people in your life.  Actually, this pertains to everyone you come across!  When we look at failed marriages, a lack of communication is usually a major factor in them.  Friendships break up over missunderstandings.  It is probably in our best interest to keep our mouths shut and hold our tongues as often as possible!!!  I talk alot.  ALOT.  So this is something I am trying to be more mindful of in my life and conversations. 

Think about that as you talk to people this week.  Is what your saying being spoken clearly?  Are you accurately articulating your thoughts or position?  Could what you are saying be taken wrong, and possibly hurt someone else or make you look bad?  Do you need to approach someone and apologize to them for something that you said or could have been taken out of context? 

Just ponder that...

I hope your Thursday ROCKED!!!

Robbing others of a blessing...

How do you handle it when others want to do something kind or nice for you?  Sometimes that may be as simple as putting your plate in the trash, or it could also be as big as paying alot of money for you to go on a trip. 

This is something that I tend to struggle with.  I am one of those people that would prefer to not feel like I depend on others for anything. 

At the end of the day though, if I wanted to do something nice for someone else, and they didn't let me, I would feel like I was robbed an opportunity to bless another.  I find that when I want to reject something that someone is wanting to do for me, it is nothing but pride or selfishness on my part---especially when there is no justifiable reason for me to not accept it!  Truth is, I should thank God for everything, and take the me out of it!

Do you do that?  Do you rob others of opportunities to be a blessing?  Next time you are about to reject something that someone is trying to do for you or give to you, stop first and think about it from their perspective.  What if you were in their shoes?  How would you feel if the roles were reversed?

God works in many different ways.  He blesses us in many different ways.  Sometimes, it just isn't for us to understand!  Just be thankful, and accept the blessings that he wants to pass along your way!

I am BEYOND blessed.....THANKS GOD!!!

Let's try this again...

Ok...ANYONE should be able to comment now on the blog!  So if you have tried and haven't been able to, then try again!!!

Thanks again for taking the time to come and check this thing out...you bless me more than you know!!!

The first Christian's...

I started reading a book by Frances Chan called "Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect Of The Holy Spirit" today.  I am only into the first chapter, but already between it and the introduction, there are some pretty great questions posed for us. 

As you can probably figure based off of the title, the book is about a very important part of the Trinity---the Holy Spirit.  Specifically, it is about our neglect of it as individuals and as a church. 

The question I pose tonight is from the introduction of the book.  In that introduction, Chan asks what the first Christians would think of church today?  He speaks of how they acted based off of the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit, and looks at how we as a body of believers have very much gotten away from that. 

So what does that look like in your life?  When is the last time you FELT the presence of the Holy Spirit guiding you and leading you?  Or do you act more off of what you think and believe as a human individual?

The Holy Spirit is all kinds of important in our day-to-day lives as believers.  God is so powerful and awesome!  One of the other statements I LOVED early on in the book is that without the Holy Spirit, people operate in their own strength and only accomplish human-sized results.  That is a very powerful statement.  A true statement.

All I know in my life is that I believe with my WHOLE heart that God is supernatural, does the supernatural, and will continue to do the supernatural.  I have seen him work in my life over and over.  Have you?  Do you believe he CAN?  Do you believe he WILL? 

He wants to use the Holy Spirit to come and work in your life, too.  Please let him!!!

Two quick thoughts...

I loved hearing our new Executive Pastor preach for the first time at church this morning.  He brought a great word from Mark 2:1-12 that was centered around fellowship.  I encourage you to read that passage.  The four friends there are something the main guy in the story had, and I am blessed with what I feel like are the same kinds of friends in my life.  What a blessing!

There are two main things that have stuck with me all day from that sermon.  Let me say right here though that Terry presented many true and practical thoughts that can help to make a better life for everyone. 

The first thing is that I need to spend more time really digging through my Bible.  I read it, and read it more than ever.  But when I hear a message like today, I realize that there are still so many things and life lessons I have yet to receive from God's Word.  I just know I want to do all I can to make sure I am in the best position to gain all of the wisdom possible!

The second thing is more about our everyday lives.  Think about your worst habits, sin, etc.  Now, who knows about it?  Who are the people that know about it, and don't judge you for it, but rather desire to love you unconditionally and help you overcome it (keeping in mind that Jesus is where you need to first turn to for that!)?  I am blessed to have people in my life that are those kind of friends.  I CAN'T imagine at all my life without them.  God uses them in amazing ways.  The sad thing to me is that most people worry to much about how others will judge them, and keep their struggles inside and play the "happy game" as they fake through life.  I don't actually blame them, because the ways of the world SUCK.  Heck, most people in most churches SUCK.  Yup---I said it. 

I encourage these people that bottle it in to seek someone trustworthy to talk to.  We can be used in mighty ways by God if we are at peace and free from the devil attacking our minds with our sin---OUR SIN THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN FORGIVEN!!!  If God is our only judge according to the Word, then why in the crap do we care what others think of us?  Seek out, listen to, and trust the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your life.

I pray we will all gain a confidence in the Lord that frees us from bondage.  That we will break those shackles so that we can be better used to carry out the Great Commission!!!  Changing lives and sharing Christ is our main purpose here on Earth!!!

Be a blessing this week!!!

Saturday morning blessings...

I have already had an AWESOME Saturday, and it is not even noon yet!  In fact, this day will only get SO much better! 

I had breakfast with a guy I really admire and relate to, Matt Graves.  Matt is a coach, dad, christian, father, husband, friend, mentor, leader, and one of the founders of Laces of Grace.  We had a three hour breakfast today and just got to know each other more, talk life, talk God, talk ministry, etc.  Just a great time.  In fact, time flew by, and I lost count of the number of cups of coffee I had!

During the course of our breakfast, we discussed MANY different things, and I just wanted to note a couple that really stood out to me, and just ask you to think about these, what you think about these, and how any of them relate to you and what they look like in your life.

Here they are:

-Most of us have a lack of faith more often than we realize in our lives.  Knowing that we have actually SEEN what God does when we have the kind of faith that he calls us to have, why in the world do we continually miss the mark in this specific area???

-As humans, we are all very guilty of judgement of others, which leads to nothing but holding both ourselves and others back from living a more fulfilled Godly life, focusing instead on the things that truly matter and serve the purpose we are suppossed to be living for.

-God is VERY faithful to his word!

-There is nothing like being surrounded by other like-minded believers that help carry us through our lives.  They provide encouragement, correction, love, support, and so many other things that we need to survive each day moving forward towards what God has called us to.  I thank God for that group of people in my life!

-We make our faith alot more complicated than it needs to be.

-Matt said this, and it is a thought-provoking statement/thought:  If you were around when Jesus walked the Earth, and didn't see, but only HEARD of the miracles he performed and who he claimed to be, would you have believed it?  Stop and think about that...

-Husbands and wives are blessed to have one another.  We are both blessed to have a woman in our lives that is an ideal help-mate and supporter of who we are as individuals and as men.  Relationships aren't selfish or about us, but rather about waking up and serving one another---about sacrificing---just as Christ served and sacrificed for us!

-And finally, we both agreed that this morning was a blessing on so many different levels.  We also looked at the fact that it happened because we both wanted to meet, we proactively set an appointed time to do so, we listened, shared, tried to grow, and saw God within it.  We carried a Christ-like attitude towards this time.  So if we do this with other friends and believers, why don't we all set more appointments like this in our lives with God?  That is TOTALLY on us to do, to proactively grow and develop our faith and our relationship with Jesus.

I hope your day is awesome, and that if your life seems to just not be where you want it, or things could be going better for you, then remember that we are all just ONE RIGHT CHOICE from being back on the right road!  Have faith and make that right choice TODAY and experience all of the peace, love, and joy that God desires for your life!  

Could be alot of different things...

I love learning about people.  I love asking questions, giving them the opportunity to share, and just taking it all in.  For the most part, I think we all know that people have opinions and love to talk---especially about themselves or what is important to them. 

Did you catch the "for the most part" part?

One of the specific ways to get out info to the masses is via Facebook.  I often enjoy posting what my sister calls "survey" questions on there.  Today I posted one about Nintendo.  The actual question was asking what your favorite old school Nintendo game was.  I'll bet that over 35 people answered---so far.  The thing that is most interesting is that for that or other mainstream type questions, people come out of the woodwork to answer.  Yet when me or others I know post a question about God, Jesus, or faith---it's quiet.  Barely a response to be found.  I was pondering that and why that might be today as I was driving. 

The conclusion I came to was there is no right or wrong absolute answer as to why that happens.  It's all a best guess.  My own best guess is that one's faith or belief system is a pretty personal and intimate thing, and many like to keep it just that way.  My only problem with that is that according to the Bible, in Matthew 28, we are called to "go and make disciples among the nations".  See that word there---"GO"???  That's a proactive word.  We are to make effort.  So that totally wipes out the "quiet because my faith is a personal and intimate theory", right?

Another issue could be that people care what others might think.  That could be for a huge different number of reasons.  It could be because they live two different ways, because they don't like people to ridicule them, or that they are scared to be accountable for where God might take them if they are more proactive in their faith.  All valid things.  Yet still, God is our ONLY judge, nobody is perfect and we shouldn't create unattainable expectations for others, and we should also have faith and live Jeremiah 29:11-13.

I could go on and on with thought after thought about this.  I probably will at a later time after I have thought and prayed about it more.  But either way, what this all shows me is that we have to be gentle and sensitive to the world, yet still more than confident in who WE are and not be afraid to live it and talk about it.  That is the only way that change will happen---is when we first make changes in ourself.  And I don't mean an apologetic type of sensitivity to the world, but rather sensitive to the fact that the world doesn't see things as we do.  We have to be able to be selfless and see through eyes other than our own. 

Give all of this some thought.  I'd be very curious to know what some of you think about this.  I certainly don't even know if my thoughts are accurate---they are just my thoughts!!!

I pray you all have an awesome weekend, and be thankful for every second you have and every blessing God gives!

Info...

I know that some of you try to comment sometimes and it won't take it.  For those of you that are followers and have a google account already---I have no freaking idea what to tell you as far as why it won't take your comments sometimes!  Maybe it wants you to re-think some of the things you wanna say!  Ha!!!

For the rest of you, that don't have a google account created already, that should be your first step.  It doesn't take but a minute to do, and then you can both follow and comment on the blog as often as you like!  I hope that ends up being ALOT!  I know signing up and stuff like that can seem like a drag, and I totally get that.  But when you consider that it takes just one minute---and there are 1,440 per day---it really isn't that big of a deal!  You'll waste MUCH more time than that throughout your day!

Feel free to email me anytime with your own thoughts, comments, or suggestions at thomasearlneal@yahoo.com.  And as always, thank you SO much for taking time to stop in and read!

YOU BLESS ME!!!

We have it better than we think...

I had the opportunity to sit with some guys at lunch today, one of which is our new Executive Pastor at church.  Sounds fancy, doesn't it!  Part of his journey in his life is a military assignment as a chaplain during the current ongoing war.  He shared many things from that time, and we had many different questions for him.  One of the questions I asked him was about what God taught him through that experience overseas.  He spoke specifically about gratitude.  Not only did he speak about it, but his eyes welled up with tears, and raw emotion overtook him as he answered my question.

He said that the men and women over there never know if the current day will be their last.  That they struggle with things like having to kill enemies, or even killing innocent civilians.  They question how God sees them through that.  They live in an environment where you can trust almost nobody.  They never know if five feet in front of their vehicle is a bomb waiting for them.  Can you imagine having to live through that?  Can you even fathom that being your everyday?  To be on the ground moving with your crew and having people firing guns and other things at you trying to kill you?

My stomach turned at first.  I am a very empathetic person (empathetic, NOT pathetic!), and to try to put myself in his or their place broke my heart.  To see him so moved by what he lived through, as well as moved by God's grace, really impacted me.  As he kept on though, my focus became more clearly fixated on praying more than ever in many different ways for our troops that are fighting to protect us and our freedom.  God showed me more than ever today that I have MANY things to be thankful for, both big and small.  I think that WAY too often we take the little things for granted.

I ask you to stop and think about these troops.  Think about their lives they live over there, the battles they daily face, emotions, questions, etc.  It is NOTHING like we live over here in our country.  It is also NOTHING that any of us that have not been there can even start to pretend to understand.

So to any troops that might read this, I say a heartfelt thank you for your service and sacrifice.  If I can ever do anything at all for you, please don't hesitate to let me know.

Thanks for sharing, Terry.

The triangle...

One of the things I feel like I think on, study, and talk about with others is the love relationship.  This one being the one between a husband and wife. 

The best and simplest way I know to illustrate what that is suppossed to look like is by taking all of the roles and assigning them a part of a triangle. 

The horizontal line at the bottom of the triangle represents the most basic foundation shared between the couple.  It is the minimum they have holding their relationship together. 

Each diagonal side of the triangle makes up each individual in the relationship, with the very top where they come together being where they are one---with God. 

So that makes each of those diagonal sides EXTREMELY important in the whole relationship process.  It shows us that each person should have a place they are striving to be.  It shows us that even while we are in a relationship, we have ALOT of responsibility to control positively what we can control, and it shows us exactly what we get when we invest into that---a oneness with our mate and God.  Is there ANYTHING better than that when it comes to these marriage relationships? 

Have you ever thought of all of this in this way?  Does it make sense to you? 

This illustration really helps me put it all into perspective.  It shows me the big picture, yet allows me space to figure out myself what I need to do to do my part.  It promotes communication between the two, so they can be sure they are moving towards the same things, and check in on exactly how they are doing it.

If you read this and are having relationship issues, or know someone that is, try putting this into place or sharing it with someone else.  I hope God can use it to speak to someone else as he has used it for me!

Be blessed out there, and enjoy your Wednesday!

A cheerful heart...

Proverbs 17:22
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

This great Proverb doesn't need a whole lot of explanation.  We live in a hurting world, with stresses and things that could tear us down waiting around every corner.  It goes back to attitude.  We have the choice ourselves as to whether we are going to be a light, or whether we will tear others down.  The Bible states quite simply right here that the right move for us is to be a light and to be "medicine" to those in need.  Medicine heals.  Therefore we have the opportunity to bring healing to a world in need, one person at a time!

Believe you can be that!!!

The simplicity of it all...

I love the simplicity of Acts 3:19.

"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."

Pretty straight forward, isn't it!  The whole thing starts with us acknowledging our sin.  Once we humble ourselves enough to do that, we need to just ask God to forgive us of those sins, which he has already done through the blood of Jesus on the cross!  Then, the times of refreshing that this verse speaks of, that come from the Lord, is based on the fact that once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit comes and walks with us.  Things like joy, peace, love, hope, etc, are ALL a part of the blessings that come in that. 

I ask that if any read this and don't know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, that you please consider this truth, and the truth of his love and power as it is manifested in so many lives, working for our good, all bringing God glory.  There is NOTHING like the love of Christ.  NOTHING!

It is a life-changing decision that myself and so many others have made.  I'm so thankful to know that I never walk alone in this world, seeing as how everytime I have tried to do it all myself, I failed. 

So go and experience all that life has to offer through a relationship with Christ---you'll NEVER regret it!

Have an awesome Saturday!

Whew...

I am WORE OUT!  We have had district baseball tournament all week long, and it finally ended tonight.  We got 2nd place. 

Tonight my thoughts are simple.  I am so very proud of those boys for never quitting, even when they could have easily done so.  The biggest thing for me though is the joy I get watching and knowing I am having an opportunity to positively impact a young life.  What an awesome opportunity and responsibility.  Young people are so very impressionable, and we have to really be careful what they see from us, whether it be actions, emotions, or attitudes. 

So tonight, I just thank God for the opportunity I had to learn and grow by being a part the last two years of such a wonderful group of parents, families, and these young men.  I pray that somehow I was able to be used in their life to have some sort of positive impact!

Now, FINALLY, time for some much needed rest!!!

Take a look around...

What is your focus during the day?  I ask only because I have been very convicted about those hurting that hold it all in, never telling anyone or feeling like anyone cares.  I just believe that there are more people that fall into that group than we even realize. 

Do you ever stop and just ask people how they are doing?  I mean sincerely ask them?  And then taking it a step further, if something does seem wrong or they admit to it, do you ask the further questions and make yourself availiable as a person to lend an ear or offer help in some form or fashion?  I expect most people don't want to burden others with what they feel like are huge issues, but I tend to look at it all from a different angle.  I think that if we all would try to not act so perfect and just be who we are, and share with others our imperfections and struggles in an encouraging way, then others wouldn't feel so down and burdened by their own problems or issues.  Makes sense, doesn't it? 

I encourage you to stop and sincerely check with others in your day.  We are called to love each other and bear one another's burdens.  Not only that, but we are called to be christians before we are ANYTHING else.  Yes, we fail daily, as we are all sinners.  I get that.  But that should not keep us from striving to pursue authenticity in our lives, and also being sure not to hold others to standards that can NEVER be met.  We all need to be a little more realistic and fair, and especially more forgiving and understanding of the bigger picture.

We just never know when a little love and care from our part that might seem insignificant to us might be the thing that makes a difference and changes everything in another's life.  God is bigger than everything, especially us!

Remember...

Do you ever think about how you hope you are remembered when you are gone from this earth?  I don't know that I think about that alot, but it is something that from time to time crosses my mind. 

When I stop and think about that, it brings to mind the good as well as bad I have encountered thus far as I have walked through my life.  I feel like I am at a much better place these days, especially compared to where I feel like I have been.  I DO think we have to stop and remember just a couple of things as we ponder this topic.

The first thing is that we can always change our future.  Every person that doesn't like where they feel they are headed is just ONE CHOICE away from righting their course.  It just takes one turn to get off the wrong road and onto the right one.  That's it. 

Next, we must remember that our parents and our kids will both be a part of how we are remembered.  It might be that we were just like our folks, or that we broke away from their ways, but it will still be that they are a part of our legacy.  And for our kids, how we raised them and how people saw us as parents will be a large part of how we are remembered. 

Lastly, there are one of three ways that we will be remembered---good, bad, or indifferent.  Think about that.  That is a very true statement.  Is it worth walking this earth and living each day to not even be remembered?  Or to leave a negative lagacy behind you?  NO!!!  It isn't!!!

We should all want to leave our mark positively on this world.  God didn't breathe life into us for us to live a wasted one.  So think about where you stand on this as you read this today.  Are you happy with how you feel you would be remembered if your time was up right this moment?  If not, how do you want it to be different? 

I hope your weekend was fantastic, and I pray we all seek the opportunities to impact lives and better our own legacies as we walk through this upcoming week!

Be a blessing and change another's life!

You just never know...

Almost everyone has heard by this point of the tragic death of the firefighter at the Ranger game from last night.  The more I hear about it, the more it breaks my heart.  I know during the Mavericks and Lakers series, I blogged about the difference an inch can make in life.  That stemmed from watching the Mavs celebrate victory as Kobe had a three-point attempt bounce off the back of the rim as the buzzer sounded. 

Well, this is the other side---the more serious side---of that same idea.  I have pictured in my mind what it would do to my son to witness me go through something like that.  It brings me to tears to think about the pain that he would have to deal with.  Not understanding things and why they happen a certain way.  Children walk with such trust and faith in their lives that they just can't comprehend these types of things. 

I have prayed for that widow, that 6 year-old boy, and everyone involved in that situation, including fans, players, witnesses, etc. 

But the thing I keep coming back to is that God is bigger than all of this, and everything happens for a reason.  We don't understand alot of the time, including this one, but then again, we aren't suppossed to.  God knew this would happen, and somehow, God will get the glory in all of this.  That is the attitude and faith we are called to walk in daily.  I pray that my son and I can talk about this situation, and that God will somehow use this story to show himself to myself and my son in a whole new way. 

Either way, be thankful for the blessings you have today.  Don't wait until they are gone and live with the regret of not sharing.  Live each day as if it might be your last, and live with no regrets!  Don't let stuff that doesn't matter get in the way of the most important things---pray to God that he reveal to you fully what those are in HIS eyes.


Lord, we know that in everything, you reign.  You are the Lord over all, and the Lord of my life.  I trust you, and just want to honor the blessings you have given me each and every day.  I am blessed beyond measure, and you get all of the glory.  Thanks for your love, mercy, and forgiveness.  Forgive and cleanse me where I fail you, and let others see you through me.  I love you Father.  Thank you most of all for Jesus.

Ask yourself...

I feel lucky to be blessed with the ability to stop and have patience and see the big picture more often than not.  I know many people don't have that, and it can make life frustrating, as well as allow insignificant details to get in the way of the things that matter. 

One of the questions I often ask myself regardless of the situation is, "What does this mean in the grand scheme of things?"  When it comes to our jobs, kids, relationships, etc, it is very easy to let small stupid details get in the way of peace.  I don't believe that is productive whatsoever.  So as you seek peace in your life, make one of the first steps you take to be to get in the habit of asking yourself that very question in every situation you go through.  When you stop and think about that, you will find that most details are just exactly that---details.  The things that matter will not be clouded and polluted with the small, insignificant details that shouldn't affect them.  You will be amazed at how much easier your days seem with that mindset!

I hope God is blessing your day, and that you are looking for opportunities to make a difference in this crazy world we live in!  Don't waste your days, have an impact!!!

HELP...

I know I mentioned Laces of Grace a while back as a growing ministry here in the Texarkana area.  Tonight, I ask two things.  First, PLEASE email me or go to the website for Laces of Grace and GIVE to help these needy kids.  Your contribution ensures that they get a new pair of socks and shoes that they otherwise would never have.  YOU have a chance to make a HUGE difference in a young person's life.  Second, for those of you outside Texarkana, consider getting in touch with Matt Graves and possibly helping Laces of Grace grow to your area.  There are kids all over that could use this kind of love and blessing!

Again, here in Texarkana, the shoes and socks will have to be bought soon, so there is a DEFINITE sense of URGENCY in finishing collecting the money and donations needed to make this happen! 

PLEASE HELP SHOW GOD'S LOVE TO THESE KIDS, AS WELL AS ADULTS!!!

Be a blessing out there my peeps!

Love is a verb...

I would be willing that most people see love played out in their lives as more of a feeling or emotion.  I see it different.  I see love as a state of being.  A constant choice and action.  Love is a marathon, and not a sprint. 

I see as I get older that my personal definition of love has grown and changed drastically over the course of my life.  As I strive to be a better man and grow closer to the Lord, I see that there in his word is where the absolute best example of love can be found.  It is up to us to read that for ourselves and decide what that means to us. 

I trust that there is a perfect match for me out there, and that when I trust God and his timing, that true love will present itself.  I feel more prepared than ever to take care of and honor that love.  God gets the credit for that, as he has had to provide me plenty of accountability and correction in my life for bad choices.  But no matter what, I know that his plan for me is perfect, and my trust is in that. 


Heavenly Father, show me daily what your kind of love is.  Show me how to best honor you in how I love others.  I pray wholeheartedly for every marriage and love relationship tonight.  For those that hurt and are struggling, provide answers and direction.  For those on the right path, give them even more joy, as only you can.  Show us all how to make love not about ourselves, but glorifying you by putting both you and the person we love before ourselves.  Lord, forgive me and cleanse me of any relationship mistakes and sins in my life.  Let me live my life in a way that honors you first and foremost.  Let others see my heart, and let me grow more into a light for you, God.  Let me only focus on what is right, what is of you, and only on the things I can control.  Thank you for Jesus, and thank you for all of the little things you provide daily in my life to bring me joy and happiness.  I love you, Lord. 

There is always an out...

Proverbs 3:21-22
My son, preserve sound judgement and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.

People are always in pursuit of peace.  You can't put a price on peace of mind.  Well, right here, Proverbs tells us that one of the ways to have life, God's way, is to hold the attitude of wise choices.  To keep those wise choices right there at the forefront of all that we do. 

I have noticed in my life that when I am in the middle of something that I shouldn't be in, God ALWAYS gives me an out.  It is just up to me to take the opportunity to use sound judgement and discernment and make the wise choice.  Of course, if I had those things graced around my neck, then I would stay away from most of those situations and temptations in the first place.

I hope that you and yours have an amazing holiday today, and be PROUD to be an American.  No matter how tough times get, the opportunity to live where we are free to worship however we choose is a blessing that most others do not have.

Thanks for my freedom, Lord.  But thank you mostly for Jesus.

Fill me up buttercup...

I think alot of people seek fulfillment from numerous sources.  I know there was a time in my life that I fell into this boat.  But now, I know that the first place I MUST find my fulfillment is from God. 

I have spoken to people this week that are going through different trials in their lives.  The one thing they all have in common is that they are feeling hurt or negativity from outside sources, and they are allowing it to keep a stronghold over them.  Truth is, there will NEVER be peace unless it comes from above.  God made us.  He perfectly created us.  If we allow ourselves to count on man to meet our needs, then we will constantly be let down, because man will fail us every time. 

The things we most want in our lives are peace, love, joy, happiness, etc...and those come from above.  They are fruits of the Spirit. 

So if you are feeling down, in bondage, frustrated, etc, then I ask you where the source of it is?  Are your expectations resting on another human or situation?  I'd be willing to bet that your focus isn't on seeking God's best for your life, because although we DO face trials, He is not the author of confusion or negativity. 

Open the Word, and lay your burdens at the foot of the cross.  You will feel free, and be allowed to experience the fulfillment and peace you need---from the right source!!!

Have an AWESOME holiday weekend, and be safe out there!

Simplicity...

I love 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12!  I think I have even mentioned it somewhere in the past here before, but it is the kind of passage that God brings to my heart often, and is continuously relevant in our lives.

"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependant on anybody."

That is a telling passage.  I know many people that love drama in their lives.  I DON'T!  I have had it before, and NOTHING good came from it.  God has clearly shown me that a drama-free life is the only way to go, and this passage reminds me of that.  This passage also reminds us that we should be focused on the things in front of us---not far off from us.  If we are focused on the things that God has shown us should matter to us, then we more clearly hear him, and we DON'T worry about the world and the drama that are constantly trying to drag us down to them.  The only thing that living any other way than this does for us is to allow distractions in that keep us from experiencing the very best that life has to offer.

What a great word...thanks God!  You are my peace, my joy, and my strength!

Opinions...

Something most people have about most things.  Opinions.

So why is it that most people also think that it is their place to share opinions that don't matter about issues that aren't theirs to worry about in the first place with other people that have no involvement whatsoever?

Just something I think about.  And we are all guilty on some level at some point, so I am speaking to myself as well here. 

Our tongues can be one of the most painful things to others if we aren't careful in how we use them.