Archive for the ‘religion’ Category
Fireproofing your Marriage
Filed under: bible, Christian, religion | Tags: entertainment, gospel, marriage, movie
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Last night my wife and I attended the opening night of the movie Fireproof. This movie was not made in Hollywood (I’m not sure there is anyone with enough integrity there to accomplish it), but by a church in Georgia with a heart for reaching people through modern media. The movie stars Kirk Cameron as a firefighter named Caleb who is a hero in his hometown but has a marriage that is falling apart. Both he and his wife Catherine have grown selfish and seem to have fallen out of love with each other, and are on the brink of divorce.
Caleb’s father asks him to hold off on the divorce for 40 days and try something to win back his wife and heal his marriage. I won’t give away the rest of the story. You need to see this wonderful movie for yourself to learn how it turns out. I just wanted to let everyone know how wonderful I thought this movie was.
Not only is it a wonderful film with a great story, it brings the Gospel message that shows how Jesus Christ is the ultimate healer of relationships. It’s not about talk therapy, relationship or self-imporvement books. It’s aoubt asking Jesus Christ to be the Lord of your life, and to teach you how to care for others.
My prayer is for every couple in America to see this movie, as I truly believe ti can help to heal relationships. My request, is that if you have time this weekend, please go see this movie. Not only for your relationship, but because a good openning weekend could help secure a major distributor to help get the movie into more theaters. In 2006 the same church produced the movie Facing the Giants. It openned in only about 350 theaters. But because it had a great openning weekend, it was picked up by Sony and ended up in thousands of theaters.
Please consider seeing this film. God will bless your marriage or relationship for it.
The Right of Conscience
Filed under: Christian, religion | Tags: abortion, conscience, constitution, religion
Comments (1) The Right of Conscience is a right given by God, who commands us to follow His law, and is acknowledged by the US Constitution in our First Amendment Right to practice our religion. If you were to ask people to list rights that they were concerned about protecting, this would probably be at the bottom of the list, as it is usually considered a given.
But now that right is being threatened in a rather frightening way. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is considering regulations that would require an Obstetric Gynecologist (ObGyn) to perform an abortion even if he is morally opposed to this procedure. Just imagine, you are a born-again Christian, who goes through all those years of training, intending to help women with their reproductive health, only to be forced to commit an act that your Holy God says is murder. That, or face your other choice of losing your job or going to jail or facing steep fines for not performing the procedure. This is a decision I would never want to be faced with. Not because I would have difficulty making the right choice. I simply would not want to deal with those kinds of consequences.
Well we now have a chance to have our voices heard, and to stand in the gap for our beliefs. Michael Levitt, Secretary of HHS, has posted an entry on this very issue on his blog, and has invited people to comment on it. I would implore all Christians the world over to please politely ask the Secretary to make sure the right of a doctor to say “performing an abortion is against my religion” is protected. Thank you.
Dark Times in the State of California Part I-Prostitution in San Francisco
Filed under: Christian, men, religion, sex | Tags: accountability, Christian, men, prostitution, sanfrancisco, sex
Leave a Comment As I grow in my faith as a Christian, I have become increasingly worried about the state of affairs in California. Despite having pockets of Christians and Conservatives, this state has been known for a long time as one of the most liberal in the nation. With Hollywood in the southern part espousing it’s liberal and secular world view through TV and film, and San Francisco in the north and it’s propensity for and acceptance of the homosexual lifestyle and agenda, it’s no wonder my Grandfather used to say that California was the land of fruits and nuts, where the nuts are a bit fruity and the fruits are a bit nutty.
If California existed in it’s own vacuum this probably wouldn’t be a problem. But the sad fact is that it is one of the largest and most populous states in the nation, and policies and opinions there often permeate the rest of US society.
This year, perhaps because of the upcoming election, perhaps because of our faltering economy, or other factors, California seems to be taking an even darker turn than usual. I think most people have heard about the destruction of marriage in this state, and I don’t think I need to delve into this, other than to add my own discontent and disgust. But I would like to introduce you to three stories you probably have not heard on the mainstream news which highlight where California and perhaps the rest of the country are heading. For lack of time, this post will focus on the first, to be followed by two more shortly thereafter.
Referendum to Legalize Prostitution in San Francisco
This fall’s general election will feature a ballot measure for citizens of San Francisco to decide whether or not they want to legalize (or more appropriately decriminalize) prostitution. The measure, as explained here, would not allow the police department or city attorney to allocate funds to the prosecution of sex workers (and if you can’t pay cops and lawyers to work, how can they”?).
It would also eliminate two very important programs the city uses to combat prostitution. The first is a program that uses racial profiling to target illegal immigrants involved in prostitution. This may sound bad, until we discover that this is a program to combat human trafficking. And what is another name for human trafficking? SLAVERY! That’s right folks! Slavery is alive and well in America. Most prostitutes don’t wake up one morning and decide that this is a good career move. Most are drawn so far down into poverty, either because of drugs, abuse, or in the case of illegal immigrants the inability to find other work, that they end up the property of some pimp, who will use and abuse them at their own pleasure, as well as that of the customers. Those who want out are often beaten or killed for their disobedience. If that doesn’t sound like slavery to you, I suggest you pick up a US History text book for a refresher.
But I digress. As I was writing and reading I got to thinking about some of the deeper implications of what this ballot measure could do. Let’s get back on track.
The second program is a first time offender’s program for “customers” that allows them to pay a $1000 fine and attend a class on prostitution in exchange for having the misdemeanor charge dropped. Men who participate in the program are 30% less likely to be arrested again. This means that 3 out of 10 men in this program are being turned away from the sin of prostitution. This program is not introducing them to The Gospel of Jesus Christ and convicting them of their sin, but it’s a start. This ballot initiative would end it.
This ballot initiative shows the inability of government to solve the problems of it’s citizens, as well as the inability to significantly improve their quality of life. But Jesus Christ can solve all problems. Jesus can elevate our lives from the finite to the infinite. Instead of making it easier for people to buy another person’s body for awhile, receiving physical pleasure but depriving themselves from the infinitely superior spiritual pleasure and assurance of being born again.
Why not refer these “sex workers” as they are called to a church group? Many churches would be all to happy to help them find housing, real work, and most importantly salvation. Instead of giving the “johns” a fine and a secular class, why not refer them to a men’s accountability group so they talk about their loneliness, lostness, and have someone to call if they feel tempted again.
I know this might sound radical. In fact to the secular bureaucrats, it might sound like secular blasphemy! But to me, it sounds like a Biblical World View put into action. And let’s not forget that individual crimes (prostitution apart from drugs or violence) don’t happen in a vacuum either. By legalizing prostitution San Francisco would undoubtedly be inviting more drugs, violence, and even murder into their community. Wouldn’t it be better to invite in faith, hope, and love? Wouldn’t it be better to try and deter crime, rather than promote more of it? Let me know what you think, and stay tuned for part two later this week.
I would also ask that you add the voting Citizens of San Francisco to your prayer list, that the Holy Spirit helps them to make the right decission on this issue. I would also ask that you pray for the conversion of all involved in the trafficking of humans and human sexuality: prostitutes, pimps, johns, drug dealers, and all their families. Thank you.
Men’s Accountability Proposal
Filed under: Christian, men, prayer, religion | Tags: accountability, Christian, men
Comments (3) Tonight I finally finished my proposal for a Men’s Accountability Group at my church. I am submitting the text of this request here, so that people may learn more about Christian Accountability, and please offer prayers on my behalf. I would appreciate all those reading this to be in agreement with me that I am walking in the ministerial direction that God wants me to be going, and that my proposal finds favor with my pastor, church leaders, and ultimately the men of my church. Thanks!
Proposal to create a Men’s Accountability Group for Vertical View Church
July 22nd, 2008
| “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” (! Timothy 2:1) |
As men of our church I believe we are called together for Fellowship, mentoring, and accountability.
We are called to Fellowship with our brothers in Christ, for we are better when we associate with others in the body of Christ. This we already do on a semi-regular basis, but I believe we should be committed to regular time together. The world constantly puts its own influence on us, we need to restore ourselves to a Christian world view.
And they steadfastly persevered, devoting themselves constantly to the instruction and fellowship of the apostles, to the breaking of bread [including the Lord's Supper] and prayers. – Acts 2:42
We should seek advice and counsel from those brothers more advanced in the ways of the Lord to Mentor to us, and make ourselves available to those who need advice & prayer.
Romans 14:1 As for the man who is a weak believer, welcome him [into your fellowship], but not to criticize his opinions or pass judgment on his scruples or perplex him with discussions.
Finally, as Christian men we should have someone to hold us accountable to our actions. This person is not there to judge or scold us when we fall, but to help pick us back up and lead us back to Jesus Christ through prayer, advice, and correction.
Galatians 6:1-2 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Rules and Format
While there are many different formats that a group such as this can choose from, I believe there are three rules which are essential for the group’s success and must be agreed upon by all participants:
1. What is said here, stays here. I may not have a scripture reference for this, but I can tell you that I don’t know anyone who wants to come into a group, discuss their innermost secrets and faults, knowing that they are going to be broadcast for others outside the group to hear. It is as simple as that. In order for this group to be successful the members must commit to keeping the information shared private and must have confidence that whatever they share will be kept confidential.
2. Absolutely no ridiculing, criticizing, or judging. We must heed the words of Mathew 7:1-2, which admonishes us not to judge others, or our Father in Heaven will judge us by the same standard.
3. His Word is our final authority. Every one of our meetings, be they the whole group or just two or three gathered together, should start and continue in prayer, keeping God’s Word first in our minds when we give advice, and referred to any time a question arises. If this group is going to bring men to Christ and help keep them to be pleasing in His sight. We must use the tools he has ordained for us, not whatever we think will fix the problem. In this we should heed the words of Timothy 3:15-17-And how from your childhood you have had a knowledge of and been acquainted with the sacred Writings, which are able to instruct you and give you the understanding for salvation which comes through faith in Christ Jesus [through the leaning of the entire human personality on God in Christ Jesus in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness]. Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action), So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
As to format, I recommend a simple style that starts with prayer, then continues on to group discussion. Topics can include any appropriate theme such as Bible stories, concerns in the news, a book that we are reading together as a group, etc. It is also VERY important to introduce any new members that might be coming for the first time and to make sure they are acquainted with everyone else. In previous groups I have noticed that it seemed easier for members to invite friends as the group is not a “church service,” so friends are more likely to come.
After group discussion, when people are more comfortable and the ice is broken, it is time for each individual to have their turn. If the group is small enough then the whole group can stay together, but I personally prefer it when the group breaks up into groups of 2 or 3. This gives each man more time, and makes it easier to open up for some men.
During this time, each man should have a turn to talk about whatever is on his heart. How his week went, his joys and concerns, and most importantly where he needs God in his life. The other members should listen actively, sharing in his joys and offering prayers and advice in areas where he needs help.
At the close of the meeting the members should gather together for closing words and prayer.
Commitment
Group Meetings: In previous groups I have noticed different levels of commitment and attitude to groups such as this. Some treat it a bit casually and only come when ever they feel burdened. Others made it a point to come to every single meeting. Whatever the stance they choose we do not judge, we love them where they are at and encourage them to come as often as possible.
Partners: If the group chooses to identify accountability partners for each participant, this commitment MUST be taken more seriously. It is a partner’s responsibility to make themselves available as often as possible. It is understood that we cannot be available at all times (many people cannot take calls at work or during other commitments) but they should agree on at least one time per day that both will be available if one of them needs to talk. This will help protect each other against the temptation to sin, and to make good choices when difficult decisions arise.
My Commitment: As group founder or facilitator, my commitment will be to attend all meetings, to be ready with discussion topics, help introduce new members, and to provide a willing replacement ahead of time if I for some reason cannot fulfill these duties. I am also willing to step aside if others wish to take a turn at facilitating for the group, but I want it understood that when I take something on, it is my responsibility to see it through and take responsibility and provide solutions for any problems that may arise.
This proposal is respectfully submitted for your consideration and prayer for its blessing and approval. I accept the fact that nothing in this document is set in stone, and that either myself, you, or the leaders of this church may need to make changes if and when this group is going to be implemented by Vertical View Ministries, which I acknowledge has as its final authority Jesus Christ, who has commissioned our Pastor to implement this ministry.
The Church Makes Men Better Dads and Husbands
Filed under: Christian, men, religion | Tags: Christian, fathers, men, study
Leave a Comment Normally I wouldn’t start a blog post this late at night, but after seeing this article on One News Now I just had to pass it on, it is that important.
Too many times in this secular world we Christians are seen as intolerant, old fashioned, and out dated. The secular world doesn’t seem to want our view point, because they don’t think we can still add value to this life, or to this world. Of course they couldn’t be more wrong, as we “add” the proclaiming of the Good News of Jesus Christ to this world, recounting the ultimate sacrifice He made for us while we were yet sinners. We should bear witness to the fact that we cannot do anything to earn this gift, yet it is freely given.
Well, today the US Government, which over the last few years has not stood behind it’s Christian roots, lent credence to how, in at least one area, Jesus Christ and His church do make this world a better place. Under a grant from the Department of Justice The Center for Marriage and Families published a report by University of Virginia Sociologist Bradford Wilcox which shows how men who regularly attend church get divorced less, have happier marriages, and spend more and better time with their children. For details you can check out the article, which includes a link to the actual report.
I am so blessed to have a loving church family in my life to help me grow not only in the Love and Teachings of Jesus Christ, but also as a Father, Husband, and Man. I hope you will point to this study when one of your pre-Christian friends begins criticizing the church about it’s lack of contribution to society. Better yet, maybe you should just witness to them about how it has helped you. Think about it.
Why I won’t be Shopping at Barnes and Nobles
Filed under: Christian, religion, sex | Tags: Christian, crosstalk, petition, shopping
Leave a Comment Wow, it’s hard to believe I have gone three whole months without posting to this blog. I must apologize to any readers out there, and to myself, for not pushing myself to make time and challenging myself to use my brain to write something worthwhile. Most importantly, as this blog is a part of my dedication to serving the Lord, it is my hope and prayer that this will serve as some repentance for my slothfulness.
So, what has brought me out of my hiatus? last week I was listening to a podcast of a radio show called Crosstalk, which is a daily broadcast call in show designed to spread the gospel over the airwaves and the internet. This particular show, entitled Barnes and Noble Hits Children with Gay Porn featured guest speaker Brannan Howse of Christian World View Network, a ministry seeking to teach people how to have a Biblical world view.
Now the best way for you to get the whole story on this podcast is to simply listen to it. But I will give you a brief synopsis. A few weeks ago Mr. Howse went into his local Barnes and Noble store with his 11-year-old son to pick up some DVD’s they had ordered. As they were walking down an aisle they passed a table with a display of books. One of the books on this table, which was laying open, was displaying pictures of homosexual acts of fornication, right out where anyone, including his 11-year-old son, could see them.
Outraged, Mr. Howse closed the book and went and found a manager to complained too. When he found the Assistant manager he brought her to the table and showed her the book in question. She informed him that this was the second time that day that the book had been put out like that, presumably by a customer, who one could only assume was watching to see who in the store would look at the book in order to approach them!
There are several issues here that need to be addressed. Obviously, as a Christian I believe that homosexuality is a sin, and personally do not think these kinds of books should be in my local store. Neither should any other kind of pornographic material. And I choose to boycott B&N because of it. However, as an American I treasure the First Amendment, which provides some protection for the production of pornography but does not allow it in all circumstances (the Supreme Court ruled that it is not always protected speech).
If these materials are deemed legal then B&N has the right to carry them. But it is important to note that many counties, cities and towns have ordinances which require materials such as these to be sold in an area that is off limits to minors. This is when you go into some video stores you have a room in the back, often with a curtain over the doorway, where the adult videos are kept. If a county or town has these ordinances it is illegal for stores to put this kind of material out where children can get to it. B&N was asked about their compliance with these laws and they basically said that they didn’t care. So not only are they willing to sell materials that an insult to God, they don’t care if they make them available to children.
It is for this reason that I have chosen not only to boycott Barnes and Nobles, but also to sign a petition on Christian World View Network stating this intention. I urge everyone who reads this blog to prayerfully consider joining me in these steps, and as always I welcome all comments on this topic.
Obituary: So Appropriate for Good Friday
Great post on Worship
Filed under: bible, Blogroll, Christian, religion | Tags: god, jesus, religion, worship
Leave a Comment Here is a great post from Amanda on valuing worship of the Lord, and how not to take it for granted: http://bethoumyvision.wordpress.com/2008/03/09/worship-worthship/
A Mighty Man for God
Filed under: bible, Christian, men, religion | Tags: bible, Christian, faith, men, service
Comments (2) I went to the funeral of a Might Man for God yesterday. I confess that I did not know him well. In the past two years that I have been blessed to be a part of this church, I had not really gotten to know him. That being said, I wanted to share some of the things that were said by others, as they apply to the purpose of this blog.
Our friend Jamie, from the time he was a boy, was known for being a servant of others. Wherever there was work to be done he was the first one to get there, the last one to leave, and usually had most of the work done by the time others got there. His friends talked about him putting all the tents in a campsite up, so when others got there they could just relax. They talked about him being one of the best builders of sets for Vacation Bible School (VBS) which I can tell you are some of the most elaborate I have ever seen.
Jamie had this server’s attitude through good times and bad. Including the last 7 years when he was constantly battling cancer. And yet any time you asked Jamie how he was feeling he would answer: “I’m great, how are you doing?” That was his care. Because of his immense faith, he knew he was going to be fine, and that he would someday be called home to his God. He knew that his suffering would end, and the eternal glory of the Lord would be upon him.
So what I learned from this great man of God:
- Be punctual (I hadn’t mentioned this yet, but it was also important to him).
- In all things have faith, knowing that God is always good, His love is eternal.
- At all things be a servant of others, no matter what is going on in your life. Doing for others will always make you feel better and bring glory to God, no matter what is going on in your own life.
Amen.
Scriptures: Isaiah 40:31, Philippians 4:13, Mathew 25:21
Pure Words
Filed under: Christian, religion | Tags: bible, Christian, prosper, scripture
Leave a Comment I just wanted to drop a little post based on something that was mentioned last week at church. The speaker referenced Psalm 12, verse 6: The words and promises of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in an earthen furnace, purified seven times over.
Let’s be clear: if the words of the Lord are pure they are unblemished, without fault or defect. In short, they are perfect and be completely trusted.
Now here comes the best part, which is what the passage doesn’t say. The passage says the words of the Lord. are pure. It does not say some of the words. It does not say the words of the New Testament but not the Old (or vice versa). It says ALL the words. That means that anything the Lord says in His Holy Word you can trust! So when it says He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7) He does. When He says to have courage and not be afraid, (Joshua 1:9) you should without fear. Anything He tells you can have, be, or do is yours. Simply trust in the Lord, with all your heart, don’t worry if you don’t understand. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path (Proverbs 3:5&6).
