Hello Prayer Warriors,
I know I mentioned last week that I wasn't going to post prayers on the weekend, but yesterday I had an unexpectedly full day helping a friend and did not get a chance to post anything. And unfortunately this morning I'm short of time again too because I have to get out on the road for a full day of tennis. I'll have more time to post tomorrow and get caught up with my PDL study then.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh Lord You are so Amazing. Thank You for Your steadfast Love. For Your Faithfulness. Thank You Father for meeting the Chadwell financial needs for yet another month. About halfway through the month the math on our projected income just didn't meet the demand of the bills. But Praise the Lord, You Provided. Lord, Monica loves her Job. Thank You for that. Thank You for the work You're about in Her.
Jesus, as You know we attended the 'small group' last night at Pam and Russ's house. There was a very 'large' small group present. Praise You for that. Thank You and Praise You for Clear Creek Community Church and the work You're about in them. I just thank You too, Father, for Rick Warren and his PDL series. Lord, Your blessings are abundant. I don't have any real needs myself, Lord. Except the need and desire to know you better. And to Love You more completely.
Father, I ask blessings on others today. I wish to intercede for others this morning before I head off to work. Let me start off with my friend Todd. He's a fellow tennis pro and he's had a super difficult time lately. Both his personal and professional life are a mess. He doesn't know where to turn. Help me to help Him turn to you, Lord. I know that You are knocking at his door. Help me convince him that you're all he needs. That You can conquer all.
Lord, I also pray for blessing over my friend Elizabeth's family. Especially for 'Lashon' who is having some medical problems. Please Lord, Heal Lashon. Show Your power and glory in this situation, Father.
Jesus, I do ask for blessing for my sweet wife. Give her a good day, Lord. Help her to continue to be strong in You and to grow in the faith. Help her confidence, Lord.
Lord, I ask blessing over the upcoming election. May we have a record voter turnout this year and may You will be done in who is elected to the leadership positions in this country.
Father, I ask for blessing over this weekend. I pray for the safety of the trick or treaters. I pray that many Christians use this weekend as a witnessing tool to bring souls to You.
Lastly Lord, I do pray for my tennis students today. I pray that my coaching tips impact them greatly today. By the way, Thank You for tennis...! And Jesus, Thank You for the gift of salvation bought with the breaking of Your Body and the pouring out of Your Blood.
I dedicate this day to You, Jesus. And In Your Name I Pray, AMEN.
Saturday, October 30, 2004
Thursday, October 28, 2004
Catching Up With The Purpose Driven Life Lesson 9
I'm a little bit behind schedule in my study so I'm going to try to get caught up as quickly as I can...
The Title of Chapter 9 is What Makes God Smile...?
This chapter uses the life of Noah as an illustration. The text of chapter 9 states that in Noah's day the world was totally corrupt and morally bankrupt. God couldn't take it any more so he decided to wipe out humanity. ( -Except for Noah and his family, who were the only people left on earth that honored God.) The Life of Noah made God smile. Let's take a quick look at four key points of Noah's life and apply those lessons to our own life.
God Smiles when we love Him completely.
Noah Loved God his entire life. Genesis 6:9
God Smiles when we trust Him completely.
Noah had great Faith regarding rain that he had never seen. Hebrews 11:7
God Smiles when we obey Him completely.
Noah built the boat and gathered the animals exactly to God's specifications. Genesis 6:22
God Smiles when we praise and thank Him continually.
The first thing Noah did after surviving the flood was to build an alter and thank God. Genesis 8:20
Sam's Personal Study Notes: I know I make God smile occasionally. But definitely as much as I would like to and definitely not as much he desires me to. I'm learning to love, trust, obey, praise and thank Him more each day. It's amazing how one word at the end of each key point really enhances and changes the meaning of the entire phrase.
Love God. Of course, I love God. But do I love God continually'...? Then why do I think negative thoughts toward others?
Trust God. Sure, I Trust God. But 'continually'...? Then why do I sometimes worry...?
Do I Thank and Praise God...? Yes, Lot's of times. But do I 'continually' give Thanks and Praise Him...? Even for my trials? Well, No.
What about obedience...? Well, this line of thinking is taking me along the same path as the other topics did. So I guess it's safe to say that there's still a lot of work for Sam Chadwell to do on the road to being more Christ-Like. We are All God's workmanship. And he's not finished working on us yet!
Dear Lord,
Thank You again for this study. It's revealing so much to me about myself. I pray that others are getting as much out of the 40 days of Purpose study as I am. Lord help me to do better. Help me to love You more, to trust You more, to obey You more and to always give thanks and praise in good times and bad. Thank You for the life of Noah as a brilliant example of all those attributes.
Lord Jesus, I Love you. I praise Your Name. And In Your Sweet, Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
The Title of Chapter 9 is What Makes God Smile...?
This chapter uses the life of Noah as an illustration. The text of chapter 9 states that in Noah's day the world was totally corrupt and morally bankrupt. God couldn't take it any more so he decided to wipe out humanity. ( -Except for Noah and his family, who were the only people left on earth that honored God.) The Life of Noah made God smile. Let's take a quick look at four key points of Noah's life and apply those lessons to our own life.
God Smiles when we love Him completely.
Noah Loved God his entire life. Genesis 6:9
God Smiles when we trust Him completely.
Noah had great Faith regarding rain that he had never seen. Hebrews 11:7
God Smiles when we obey Him completely.
Noah built the boat and gathered the animals exactly to God's specifications. Genesis 6:22
God Smiles when we praise and thank Him continually.
The first thing Noah did after surviving the flood was to build an alter and thank God. Genesis 8:20
Sam's Personal Study Notes: I know I make God smile occasionally. But definitely as much as I would like to and definitely not as much he desires me to. I'm learning to love, trust, obey, praise and thank Him more each day. It's amazing how one word at the end of each key point really enhances and changes the meaning of the entire phrase.
Love God. Of course, I love God. But do I love God continually'...? Then why do I think negative thoughts toward others?
Trust God. Sure, I Trust God. But 'continually'...? Then why do I sometimes worry...?
Do I Thank and Praise God...? Yes, Lot's of times. But do I 'continually' give Thanks and Praise Him...? Even for my trials? Well, No.
What about obedience...? Well, this line of thinking is taking me along the same path as the other topics did. So I guess it's safe to say that there's still a lot of work for Sam Chadwell to do on the road to being more Christ-Like. We are All God's workmanship. And he's not finished working on us yet!
Dear Lord,
Thank You again for this study. It's revealing so much to me about myself. I pray that others are getting as much out of the 40 days of Purpose study as I am. Lord help me to do better. Help me to love You more, to trust You more, to obey You more and to always give thanks and praise in good times and bad. Thank You for the life of Noah as a brilliant example of all those attributes.
Lord Jesus, I Love you. I praise Your Name. And In Your Sweet, Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
What October 31 Means To Me
A big debate that occurs this time every year is should Christians celebrate Halloween...? I've been up and down on that topic and I had intended to write a commentary on the origin of Halloween today but I think I'll put that off for a day or two...
I was listening to a radio broadcast by noted preacher RC Sproul and he's doing a series on the Protestant Reformation. Does anyone know who started this movement...?
It was Martin Luther. No, not the one who got shot. That was Martin Luther 'King'. And they are not related.
Martin Luther was a German Catholic Monk who lived in the 1500's. He had a revelation that the Catholic Church was in significant error on many doctrines. He wrote a treatise on the errors and outlined 95 issues that he had with the Catholic Church. On October 31 he presented his papers to church officials and ended up leaving the church over those doctrinal differences. His actions sparked the births of the protestant faiths and was a significant blow to Catholicism.
That's a very interesting bit of history, isn't it...? The story of Martin Luther doesn't get told that often. I was aware of it but not that he made his presentation on October 31. Some recollections were that he nailed his treatise to the front door of the church but that is not true. The fact is he had great faith and respect for the Catholic Faith early on. After all, he was a monk. But he tried in vain to effect changes to Catholic Doctrines. He left the Catholic Faith and was excommunicated for his new beliefs.
I'd really like to do a study of Martin Luther's Treatise in upcoming months but I have to continue the 40 Days of Purpose series, first. I just thought I'd mention his story since we're getting close to October 31. So, to me October 31 is a special day because it's the anniversary of the beginning of Martin Luther's famous stand against the Catholic Church.
More on Halloween in the next few days...
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You Lord for courageous men like Martin Luther. Men of deep, deep convictions who were not afraid to tell the world what was on their hearts. Help me to be a man of deep faith and great courage like Martin Luther, John Wesley, Charles Stanley and Billy Graham to name a few.
I certainly have deep convictions, but my courage is not always where it needs to be. Yancey Arrington at Clear Creek Community church referred to one's faith and courage to witness as a person's 'Boldness Meter'. Help me to be bold, Lord. Help me to better live my faith. Help me to continually pour my life into the lives of others ministering to their hurts and pains.
Father I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. I'm ready to go out and teach great tennis lessons and connect in the authentic engagement of others today. Bless my encounters. Season my words, Father. And thank You for the Victory we have over sin and death in Your Son, Jesus.
Amen.
I was listening to a radio broadcast by noted preacher RC Sproul and he's doing a series on the Protestant Reformation. Does anyone know who started this movement...?
It was Martin Luther. No, not the one who got shot. That was Martin Luther 'King'. And they are not related.
Martin Luther was a German Catholic Monk who lived in the 1500's. He had a revelation that the Catholic Church was in significant error on many doctrines. He wrote a treatise on the errors and outlined 95 issues that he had with the Catholic Church. On October 31 he presented his papers to church officials and ended up leaving the church over those doctrinal differences. His actions sparked the births of the protestant faiths and was a significant blow to Catholicism.
That's a very interesting bit of history, isn't it...? The story of Martin Luther doesn't get told that often. I was aware of it but not that he made his presentation on October 31. Some recollections were that he nailed his treatise to the front door of the church but that is not true. The fact is he had great faith and respect for the Catholic Faith early on. After all, he was a monk. But he tried in vain to effect changes to Catholic Doctrines. He left the Catholic Faith and was excommunicated for his new beliefs.
I'd really like to do a study of Martin Luther's Treatise in upcoming months but I have to continue the 40 Days of Purpose series, first. I just thought I'd mention his story since we're getting close to October 31. So, to me October 31 is a special day because it's the anniversary of the beginning of Martin Luther's famous stand against the Catholic Church.
More on Halloween in the next few days...
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You Lord for courageous men like Martin Luther. Men of deep, deep convictions who were not afraid to tell the world what was on their hearts. Help me to be a man of deep faith and great courage like Martin Luther, John Wesley, Charles Stanley and Billy Graham to name a few.
I certainly have deep convictions, but my courage is not always where it needs to be. Yancey Arrington at Clear Creek Community church referred to one's faith and courage to witness as a person's 'Boldness Meter'. Help me to be bold, Lord. Help me to better live my faith. Help me to continually pour my life into the lives of others ministering to their hurts and pains.
Father I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. I'm ready to go out and teach great tennis lessons and connect in the authentic engagement of others today. Bless my encounters. Season my words, Father. And thank You for the Victory we have over sin and death in Your Son, Jesus.
Amen.
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Lesson Eight: A Purpose Driven Life
People were planned for God's pleasure.
'For You created everything, and it is for Your pleasure that they exist and were created'
Revelation 4:11
Bringing enjoyment to God, living for His pleasure, is the first purpose of a Christian's life. Fact: Anything We do to bring pleasure to God is called 'worship'. In the PDL, Rick Warren describes worship as multifaceted, like a diamond. While many consider worship to be music only, it is far more than that. Every part of a church service is an act of worship. To take it one step further, the act of the 'church experience' is not all there is to worship.
Worship is a lifestyle.
'Love the Lord with all your heart, with all your, mind, with all your soul, and with all your strength...' Matthew 22:37
Jesus called this the Greatest Commandment. This is Worship. In everything we do we must worship. With all our HEART we must worship. With all our Mind we must worship. With all our SOUL and STRENGTH we must WORSHIP GOD. With every fiber of our being we should offer worship to God.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Not long ago a friend devoted an entire year to discipling me in the ways of Christ. He assigned me to do an application of those Verses in Matthew 22. It was during this study that I realized my Friend was applying Matt. 22:37 to his own life by spending time with me. I developed a much deeper understanding of worship in that study. I realized that worship wasn't a part of life. It is Life...! Everything we do should be worship. That's why I now work so hard at everything I do. Not that I wasn't working hard before. It's just that now what I do has so much more meaning. I feel like I'm doing it for the Lord. I'm not just a hard worker. I love God and I'm doing it for Him...! I'll never just 'exist' in life again. I'll never just go through the motions of a boring, mundane life. I've got Great Purpose, now.
It's God that makes it all possible, any way. Everything is of Him and For Him. Nothing is for me or of me. Its' all God working through me. And I recognize this and want to give God the honor and praise and worship at all times.
We were made for God's Pleasure. I truly believe that. And I want to please him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength!
Dear Heavenly Lord,
Father, it is my desire that I please You. My Creator, My Savior and Redeemer, I give this day to You. To Your Glory and Honor. Everything I do is to the best of my ability because I want to worship You with my personal best, Jesus. Over 2000 years ago You gave Your all, Your Best for me.
It took me awhile to figure that out. But now I'm living for You, Jesus. And I want my life to be a testimony of Your Love for me, and my love for You. Oh God, Thank You for Your Omnipotence, Your Omnipresence, Your Steadfast Love. Thank You for never leaving me, Jesus. Lord, You are so deserving of my worship and praise.
You are my Rock and Fortress. I rest in you Jesus. And In Your Precious Holy Name I Pray,
Amen.
'For You created everything, and it is for Your pleasure that they exist and were created'
Revelation 4:11
Bringing enjoyment to God, living for His pleasure, is the first purpose of a Christian's life. Fact: Anything We do to bring pleasure to God is called 'worship'. In the PDL, Rick Warren describes worship as multifaceted, like a diamond. While many consider worship to be music only, it is far more than that. Every part of a church service is an act of worship. To take it one step further, the act of the 'church experience' is not all there is to worship.
Worship is a lifestyle.
'Love the Lord with all your heart, with all your, mind, with all your soul, and with all your strength...' Matthew 22:37
Jesus called this the Greatest Commandment. This is Worship. In everything we do we must worship. With all our HEART we must worship. With all our Mind we must worship. With all our SOUL and STRENGTH we must WORSHIP GOD. With every fiber of our being we should offer worship to God.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Not long ago a friend devoted an entire year to discipling me in the ways of Christ. He assigned me to do an application of those Verses in Matthew 22. It was during this study that I realized my Friend was applying Matt. 22:37 to his own life by spending time with me. I developed a much deeper understanding of worship in that study. I realized that worship wasn't a part of life. It is Life...! Everything we do should be worship. That's why I now work so hard at everything I do. Not that I wasn't working hard before. It's just that now what I do has so much more meaning. I feel like I'm doing it for the Lord. I'm not just a hard worker. I love God and I'm doing it for Him...! I'll never just 'exist' in life again. I'll never just go through the motions of a boring, mundane life. I've got Great Purpose, now.
It's God that makes it all possible, any way. Everything is of Him and For Him. Nothing is for me or of me. Its' all God working through me. And I recognize this and want to give God the honor and praise and worship at all times.
We were made for God's Pleasure. I truly believe that. And I want to please him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength!
Dear Heavenly Lord,
Father, it is my desire that I please You. My Creator, My Savior and Redeemer, I give this day to You. To Your Glory and Honor. Everything I do is to the best of my ability because I want to worship You with my personal best, Jesus. Over 2000 years ago You gave Your all, Your Best for me.
It took me awhile to figure that out. But now I'm living for You, Jesus. And I want my life to be a testimony of Your Love for me, and my love for You. Oh God, Thank You for Your Omnipotence, Your Omnipresence, Your Steadfast Love. Thank You for never leaving me, Jesus. Lord, You are so deserving of my worship and praise.
You are my Rock and Fortress. I rest in you Jesus. And In Your Precious Holy Name I Pray,
Amen.
Monday, October 25, 2004
PDL Lesson 7 And week One Wrap Up
The Scripture verse for lesson seven pretty much sums it up:
Everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by HIS power, and everything is for HIS Glory. Romans 11:36
The ultimate reason for the universe is to show the glory of God. It is the reason everything exists, including you and I...
Five ways we can bring Glory to God:
1. We can Worship Him through Songs and Prayers of thankfulness and praise
2. We can love other Believers
3. We can work towards becoming more like Christ
4. We can Serve others with our gifts and talents
5. We can tell others about HIM.
Coach Sam's Study Notes: Summary of Week One: This has been a very helpful enlightening study so far. Day One introduced God. Day Two validated our importance in God's eyes. We are His greatest creation. In Day Three we explored what motivates us. Day Four explained about our eternal soul, God's eternal promises, and the act that we were made to lost forever! Day Five taught us that life is both a test and a trust. Day Six reminded us that although our souls are eternal and will last forever, our bodies aren't. Life on earth is a temporary assignment. Day Seven set the stage for the rest of the book: Ways we can worship God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh Most Holy and Awesome God, Thank You for this study. It is teaching great life lessons and is stimulating excellent dialog between my wife and I. It is my prayer that this study changes our lives as we grow into a deeper understanding of our purpose in this world.
Thank You, Lord for being the kind, loving, gentle God that You are. Thank You for Your generosity. Thank You for the miracles that You work out in our lives each and every day.
Lord, as Monica and I prepare for work today, I pray that everything we do today will be done to Your Glory. Help us put 100 % of our being into every task we undertake. Give us both the energy and guidance to accomplish much today. Help us achieve sanity in our schedules. Let us be good stewards of this time You have given us.
Father, I pray for my students today. Let them come to class today with good attitudes and open minds ready to improve their tennis skills. Lord I pray that I have words of love, kindness, motivation, and encouragement. Help me to build up and positively impact many lives today.
I just give this day to You, Lord. Make it what You will. I Love You, Jesus. Thank You once again for your gift of eternal salvation. In Your Sweet, Holy Name I Pray, Amen.
Everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by HIS power, and everything is for HIS Glory. Romans 11:36
The ultimate reason for the universe is to show the glory of God. It is the reason everything exists, including you and I...
Five ways we can bring Glory to God:
1. We can Worship Him through Songs and Prayers of thankfulness and praise
2. We can love other Believers
3. We can work towards becoming more like Christ
4. We can Serve others with our gifts and talents
5. We can tell others about HIM.
Coach Sam's Study Notes: Summary of Week One: This has been a very helpful enlightening study so far. Day One introduced God. Day Two validated our importance in God's eyes. We are His greatest creation. In Day Three we explored what motivates us. Day Four explained about our eternal soul, God's eternal promises, and the act that we were made to lost forever! Day Five taught us that life is both a test and a trust. Day Six reminded us that although our souls are eternal and will last forever, our bodies aren't. Life on earth is a temporary assignment. Day Seven set the stage for the rest of the book: Ways we can worship God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Oh Most Holy and Awesome God, Thank You for this study. It is teaching great life lessons and is stimulating excellent dialog between my wife and I. It is my prayer that this study changes our lives as we grow into a deeper understanding of our purpose in this world.
Thank You, Lord for being the kind, loving, gentle God that You are. Thank You for Your generosity. Thank You for the miracles that You work out in our lives each and every day.
Lord, as Monica and I prepare for work today, I pray that everything we do today will be done to Your Glory. Help us put 100 % of our being into every task we undertake. Give us both the energy and guidance to accomplish much today. Help us achieve sanity in our schedules. Let us be good stewards of this time You have given us.
Father, I pray for my students today. Let them come to class today with good attitudes and open minds ready to improve their tennis skills. Lord I pray that I have words of love, kindness, motivation, and encouragement. Help me to build up and positively impact many lives today.
I just give this day to You, Lord. Make it what You will. I Love You, Jesus. Thank You once again for your gift of eternal salvation. In Your Sweet, Holy Name I Pray, Amen.
Review of Joel and Ed...
I listened to Joel Osteen's sermon tonight... It was good... He basic message tonight was 'Speak Words of Life'. Give Praise. Be Positive. Build up, and edify others with your words. It sounded pretty much like everyone of his previous sermons I've ever heard. Very Positive and Encouraging. But don't get me wrong, I enjoy his messages. He preaches a great message and it always has a useful life application.
Dr Ed Young spoke tonight about voting for the Presidency in the upcoming election. He said that Christians should get more involved in Politics. We have respnsibilities as citizens of the United States. And we have responsibilities as members of the Kingdom of Christ. One of those responsibilities is to honor or government and exercise our right to vote.
Dr Young says that we can and must legislate morality. When we vote for people we should know their values. Our vote definitely counts! What ever you do, Vote. Vote Prayerfully and Vote for the candidate of your choice.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I pray for this upcoming election. I pray for the candidates and their families. I pray that the best candidate wins this election. I pray that Your Will be done in this election and that You continue to Bless the United States of America. Thank You for the Freedom to vote. I know that not everyone in the world enjoys that luxury. Lord, I love You. And in Your Son's Name I Pray, AMEN.
Dr Ed Young spoke tonight about voting for the Presidency in the upcoming election. He said that Christians should get more involved in Politics. We have respnsibilities as citizens of the United States. And we have responsibilities as members of the Kingdom of Christ. One of those responsibilities is to honor or government and exercise our right to vote.
Dr Young says that we can and must legislate morality. When we vote for people we should know their values. Our vote definitely counts! What ever you do, Vote. Vote Prayerfully and Vote for the candidate of your choice.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I pray for this upcoming election. I pray for the candidates and their families. I pray that the best candidate wins this election. I pray that Your Will be done in this election and that You continue to Bless the United States of America. Thank You for the Freedom to vote. I know that not everyone in the world enjoys that luxury. Lord, I love You. And in Your Son's Name I Pray, AMEN.
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Weekend Prayer
Dear Prayer Warriors and My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
If You're anything like me your schedule is constantly overbooked. I'm working hard to put some sanity in my personal schedule and I ask you to pray for me. Let me know your personal prayer requests and I'll pray for you, too!
Dear Heavenly Father, You are Most Holy and True. Thank You Father for this weekend. Please Lord enable me to be a good steward of my time this weekend and get caught up on some projects that should have been completed a long time ago.
Father I ask that You help me to teach good tennis lessons today and impact my students in a pwerful way. Help me to be extra positive and supportive today. If anyone asks me about my faith today let me boldly proclaim that I am a follower of Jesus Christ.
Lord, I love You. I thank You for my blessings. I give this day, and I give this weekend to You. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, I Pray. AMEN
If You're anything like me your schedule is constantly overbooked. I'm working hard to put some sanity in my personal schedule and I ask you to pray for me. Let me know your personal prayer requests and I'll pray for you, too!
Dear Heavenly Father, You are Most Holy and True. Thank You Father for this weekend. Please Lord enable me to be a good steward of my time this weekend and get caught up on some projects that should have been completed a long time ago.
Father I ask that You help me to teach good tennis lessons today and impact my students in a pwerful way. Help me to be extra positive and supportive today. If anyone asks me about my faith today let me boldly proclaim that I am a follower of Jesus Christ.
Lord, I love You. I thank You for my blessings. I give this day, and I give this weekend to You. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, I Pray. AMEN
Friday, October 22, 2004
How Do We See Our Life...? (PDL Day 5-6)
In order to save a few keystrokes the next few weeks I will from here on out use the term 'PDL' which is short for Purpose Driven Life.
Today I am combining lessons 5 and 6 because they are linked together in description of biblical life metaphors. The big questions are how do we see our lives...? How do we think others see our lives...? And most importantly: How does God see our lives...? The Lesson 5 in the PDL Series refers to 2 biblical metaphors that can be used to describe our lives... One is a 'Test'. The other is a 'Trust'. Lesson 6 reminds us that life is short and we don't have a whole lot of time here on earth.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
From reading lesson 5, I most definitely see life as a huge test and trust. I am constantly being faced with challenges, and temptations. Many challenges I bravely face and others I am an utter failure at and rely solely upon God's Holy Grace and Mercy to get me through. I am facing several huge challenges right now. I really don't want to go into details at this time, but let me just refer to them for now as thorns in the flesh. Right now I could use any extra prayer and encouragement you feel moved to minister my way...!
Lesson 6 reminds us that the test in lesson 5 is a 'timed' test. We only have a certain amount of time to get life right. I could and may expound more on that thought later but right now I am short of time and need to close here.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Jesus You are My Rock. My Savior and Redeemer. My Deliverer. My Ever-Present Help in Time of Need. You are my Comforter. My Source of Strength. Lord, I need You Now.
Send Your Holy Spirit to me daily to renew me as I am drained constantly withstanding the fiery attacks of the Evil One. Lord You know my needs and my intimate prayer requests. Lift me up, Lord. Lift up my loved ones. Give us strength and courage and perseverance to keep on carrying on. To fight the Good Fight.
Oh Jesus, You died for me and my sins. I know that You wouldn't have gone through all that just to abandon me in my moment of need. I claim the promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. And that You will never give me more burden than I can handle. Thank You Father for those promises. I claim victory over my troubles, my thorns. I rest in You, My Lord.
I love You Lord and I give this day to You. Guide me safely on my journey to Clear Lake today and then safely home again this evening. Lift up my sweet wife today, Lord. Restore her. Give Her your strength and courage, too. Father, let us positively impact all who cross our path today.
I pray these things in Jesus' name, AMEN.
Today I am combining lessons 5 and 6 because they are linked together in description of biblical life metaphors. The big questions are how do we see our lives...? How do we think others see our lives...? And most importantly: How does God see our lives...? The Lesson 5 in the PDL Series refers to 2 biblical metaphors that can be used to describe our lives... One is a 'Test'. The other is a 'Trust'. Lesson 6 reminds us that life is short and we don't have a whole lot of time here on earth.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
From reading lesson 5, I most definitely see life as a huge test and trust. I am constantly being faced with challenges, and temptations. Many challenges I bravely face and others I am an utter failure at and rely solely upon God's Holy Grace and Mercy to get me through. I am facing several huge challenges right now. I really don't want to go into details at this time, but let me just refer to them for now as thorns in the flesh. Right now I could use any extra prayer and encouragement you feel moved to minister my way...!
Lesson 6 reminds us that the test in lesson 5 is a 'timed' test. We only have a certain amount of time to get life right. I could and may expound more on that thought later but right now I am short of time and need to close here.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Jesus You are My Rock. My Savior and Redeemer. My Deliverer. My Ever-Present Help in Time of Need. You are my Comforter. My Source of Strength. Lord, I need You Now.
Send Your Holy Spirit to me daily to renew me as I am drained constantly withstanding the fiery attacks of the Evil One. Lord You know my needs and my intimate prayer requests. Lift me up, Lord. Lift up my loved ones. Give us strength and courage and perseverance to keep on carrying on. To fight the Good Fight.
Oh Jesus, You died for me and my sins. I know that You wouldn't have gone through all that just to abandon me in my moment of need. I claim the promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. And that You will never give me more burden than I can handle. Thank You Father for those promises. I claim victory over my troubles, my thorns. I rest in You, My Lord.
I love You Lord and I give this day to You. Guide me safely on my journey to Clear Lake today and then safely home again this evening. Lift up my sweet wife today, Lord. Restore her. Give Her your strength and courage, too. Father, let us positively impact all who cross our path today.
I pray these things in Jesus' name, AMEN.
Thursday, October 21, 2004
We are Made To Last Forever...!
Today is Day Four of the Purpose Driven Life Series. The lesson is very significant. The Point to Ponder is:
There is more to life than just the here and now.
There are several significant scripture verses to get you (us)thinking:
'...This world is not our home; we are looking forward to our everlasting home in heaven...' Hebrews 13:14
'...When this tent we live in..(our body here on earth).. is torn down, God will have a house in heaven for us to live in, a house he himself has made, which will last forever... 2 Corinthians 5:1
These verses clearly indicate that there is more in store for us than this life on earth.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Our souls are eternal. Even though our body will physically wear out, our soul will continue on. In what manner the soul continues on is up to how we lived our life today. Our lives today are just 'practice' for what we'll be doing in heaven later on.
When I was younger I was always afraid of death. I'm not any more. I do have a peace about me in that regard. Even though I'll miss my loved ones here on earth I know that one day we'll all be reunited in heaven. And I guess that's the start to figuring out my purpose. If I really love someone and I know that they're lost, isn't it my duty and obligation to share the Gospel with them in some manner...? -At all costs?
For instance, I lost my Mom tragically four years ago and my Dad six months after that. They knew of God. I guess you could say that they were religeous, but they were brought up in a faith that did not teach the plan of salvation. They were members of a very popular religeon that stressed good works and sacraments to get to heaven instead of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I tried hard to witness to my mom, but was unsuccessful in reaching her. Sadly, my Dad and I were just not close enough to discuss the subject before he died.
Then I flash back to a comment a fellow band member brought up at a small group meeting a few weeks ago. 'Who is going to be in heaven because of me, my witness, or the way I lived my life as an example?'
I loved my parents but can't say that I did absolutely everything I could have to win them to Christ. -That's sort of haunting to me, now. Something that is difficult to forgive myself, for... I know that God loves me and forgives me, and I can't go back and change the past, but I can certainly do better from here on out.
Dear Heavenly Father,
What a Powerful, Wonderful God You are. You are Forever and You made us for Eternity in Your image. I am awed in Your presence, Lord. Lord, Thank You for Eternity. The promise of Eternity dictates that I must live my life a certain way. I fully embrace Your promise of Eternity. I am happy and delighted to live for You. Lord, I long to tell others about You. I want to impact souls for the Kingdom.
Father, help me reach all those within my sphere of influence. Help me to be transparent until there's no more me, only You.
Lord Jesus, You are such an Awesome Provider. Thank You for my blessings, both spiritual and material. Holy and Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, I bow down in adoration at the foot of Your Cross. I cast all my cares at your feet Lord. I just trust You to care for me. To love me. To meet my every need.
Lord, please continue to give me patience and grace to wait on You. Drive away the worry, the and the anxious thoughts. Lord, I will rest in You. And in Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
There is more to life than just the here and now.
There are several significant scripture verses to get you (us)thinking:
'...This world is not our home; we are looking forward to our everlasting home in heaven...' Hebrews 13:14
'...When this tent we live in..(our body here on earth).. is torn down, God will have a house in heaven for us to live in, a house he himself has made, which will last forever... 2 Corinthians 5:1
These verses clearly indicate that there is more in store for us than this life on earth.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Our souls are eternal. Even though our body will physically wear out, our soul will continue on. In what manner the soul continues on is up to how we lived our life today. Our lives today are just 'practice' for what we'll be doing in heaven later on.
When I was younger I was always afraid of death. I'm not any more. I do have a peace about me in that regard. Even though I'll miss my loved ones here on earth I know that one day we'll all be reunited in heaven. And I guess that's the start to figuring out my purpose. If I really love someone and I know that they're lost, isn't it my duty and obligation to share the Gospel with them in some manner...? -At all costs?
For instance, I lost my Mom tragically four years ago and my Dad six months after that. They knew of God. I guess you could say that they were religeous, but they were brought up in a faith that did not teach the plan of salvation. They were members of a very popular religeon that stressed good works and sacraments to get to heaven instead of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I tried hard to witness to my mom, but was unsuccessful in reaching her. Sadly, my Dad and I were just not close enough to discuss the subject before he died.
Then I flash back to a comment a fellow band member brought up at a small group meeting a few weeks ago. 'Who is going to be in heaven because of me, my witness, or the way I lived my life as an example?'
I loved my parents but can't say that I did absolutely everything I could have to win them to Christ. -That's sort of haunting to me, now. Something that is difficult to forgive myself, for... I know that God loves me and forgives me, and I can't go back and change the past, but I can certainly do better from here on out.
Dear Heavenly Father,
What a Powerful, Wonderful God You are. You are Forever and You made us for Eternity in Your image. I am awed in Your presence, Lord. Lord, Thank You for Eternity. The promise of Eternity dictates that I must live my life a certain way. I fully embrace Your promise of Eternity. I am happy and delighted to live for You. Lord, I long to tell others about You. I want to impact souls for the Kingdom.
Father, help me reach all those within my sphere of influence. Help me to be transparent until there's no more me, only You.
Lord Jesus, You are such an Awesome Provider. Thank You for my blessings, both spiritual and material. Holy and Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, I bow down in adoration at the foot of Your Cross. I cast all my cares at your feet Lord. I just trust You to care for me. To love me. To meet my every need.
Lord, please continue to give me patience and grace to wait on You. Drive away the worry, the and the anxious thoughts. Lord, I will rest in You. And in Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
What Drives Sam Chadwell's Life...?
Point To Ponder: Living on Purpose is the Path to Peace.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Without a doubt, most people would say that tennis drives my life. And it's true that tennis activities do take up alot of my time. But, I'd say that tennis doesn't define my life and hasn't for a long time. Tennis did define my life back in my teens and early twenties when I thought I wanted to be a touring pro and make a living from prize money earnings. But those days are long gone. Although I do love tennis, it is now more a means to an end than any thing else.
I love to teach. I love to mentor. I enjoy helping people improve. I like to improve the quality of others' lives. For some people it's in learning to strike a tennis ball better. For others, it's just for the workout, the exercise. Others need the encouragement and motivation. And helping others is very satisfying to me. I feel fulfilled helping and interacting with others in any medium. Tennis is just my medium of choice most of the time.
I believe that everyone that crosses my path is an ordained encounter. I've often heard it said that You can't be all things to all people, or you can't please everyone... And I agree with that. But I can try to give a Godly, Christian Witness to everyone. I just have to be the 'Me' that God made me to be. When I come across someone that I have difficulty getting through to, or we just don't 'click', it's disappointing to me but I don't let what might be perceived as lack of success deter me. I know that even if I may not have achieved the results I was looking for, I may have set in motion thoughts and stirrings that someone else will come along later and water and further cultivate.
God is always faithful to finish works that he starts.
Now, it sounds like I've got it all figured out, doesn't it...? Honestly, after I went back and read what I just wrote I thought it summed up Sam Chadwell fairly well. I could just just stop right here, say my prayer and let that be it. But that's not the neat, tidy end of the lesson.
The question is: Why then, don't I have perfect peace...? I definitely don't. God is working on me big time. I can't figure it all out right now. But I'm trying. I think the Forty Days of Purpose is definitely going to reveal some things to me about myself that I didn't know. It's going to strengthen my marriage. It's going to make me a better coach.
Today's study for instance really has me motivated to figure out what's missing.
What Drives My Life...? Here's a closer look:
# 1) To be what God called me to be.
# 2) Wanting to know God better.
# 3) To serve God through the proper use of my time, talent, and treasure.
I think my problem stems from # 3.
I definitely have a time management issue. There's no doubt about that. Talent, I don't know... I think I'm making decent use of my talent(s). Now, the treasure department probably needs a little more inspection under the microscope, too... But I think that will be addressed more specifically in future studies. I'm afraid I need to close here for the sake of brevity.
Thank You for reading my journal. I hope reading insights into my life will help stimulate your own introspection. Until next time, I pray that God Richly Blesses You!
Dear Heavenly Father,
My Jesus, My Savior, Lord there is none other like You. Thank You Lord for giving us the mental capacity to ponder these important life issues. Jesus, Help me (us) know You are the Answer. You are the Truth, The Way. When we have You we have Everything. Yet, many of us are unhappy. Unsatisfied... What is the reason for that...? Is Satan firing his darts at us to confuse us and take us off the prescibed track...?
Jesus, I have a mental knowledge of Your Truth, but my faith seems so weak at times. You have shown evidence of Your Faithfulness so many times in my life. Really, what's my problem...? What's missing...?
I need You, Lord. I need You to help me find my true purpose. My complete purpose. I don't want to stay busy living an unfulfilled life. Father, Thank You for this Purpose Driven Life Study. It's making a huge difference guiding me along life's journey.
I guess I need patience too, Lord. Here I am only on Day 3 of my 40 day journey and I already want to know all the answers. Jesus, I just leave it in Your more than capable hands. I am soft clay ready to be molded by the Master Potter's hands... I am Yours, Dear Lord. Just use me as You will.
Father, I've already made a mess of today with misbudgeting my time. But I wanted to complete this study if I didn't do anything else. Lord, I ask you and I trust you to Bless the rest of my day. I offer this day up to You, Father. And I ask a special blessing on the Clear Creek Worship Band tonight. -Especially the brass section... Help us come together and play those tricky rhythems and phrases correctly, Lord.
Father, also, Bless My Sweet Wife. Keep her safe and draw her close to you. She wants to know you more just like I do, Lord. And Lord, I haven't prayed for the Prayer Warriors publicly in some time but they are always close to my heart. Please bless them and their families and their special needs.
Jesus, I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. Thank You for the day. Thank You for Eternal Salvation. Thank You for hearing my Prayer.
In Your Name, Jesus Christ I Pray.
Amen.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes:
Without a doubt, most people would say that tennis drives my life. And it's true that tennis activities do take up alot of my time. But, I'd say that tennis doesn't define my life and hasn't for a long time. Tennis did define my life back in my teens and early twenties when I thought I wanted to be a touring pro and make a living from prize money earnings. But those days are long gone. Although I do love tennis, it is now more a means to an end than any thing else.
I love to teach. I love to mentor. I enjoy helping people improve. I like to improve the quality of others' lives. For some people it's in learning to strike a tennis ball better. For others, it's just for the workout, the exercise. Others need the encouragement and motivation. And helping others is very satisfying to me. I feel fulfilled helping and interacting with others in any medium. Tennis is just my medium of choice most of the time.
I believe that everyone that crosses my path is an ordained encounter. I've often heard it said that You can't be all things to all people, or you can't please everyone... And I agree with that. But I can try to give a Godly, Christian Witness to everyone. I just have to be the 'Me' that God made me to be. When I come across someone that I have difficulty getting through to, or we just don't 'click', it's disappointing to me but I don't let what might be perceived as lack of success deter me. I know that even if I may not have achieved the results I was looking for, I may have set in motion thoughts and stirrings that someone else will come along later and water and further cultivate.
God is always faithful to finish works that he starts.
Now, it sounds like I've got it all figured out, doesn't it...? Honestly, after I went back and read what I just wrote I thought it summed up Sam Chadwell fairly well. I could just just stop right here, say my prayer and let that be it. But that's not the neat, tidy end of the lesson.
The question is: Why then, don't I have perfect peace...? I definitely don't. God is working on me big time. I can't figure it all out right now. But I'm trying. I think the Forty Days of Purpose is definitely going to reveal some things to me about myself that I didn't know. It's going to strengthen my marriage. It's going to make me a better coach.
Today's study for instance really has me motivated to figure out what's missing.
What Drives My Life...? Here's a closer look:
# 1) To be what God called me to be.
# 2) Wanting to know God better.
# 3) To serve God through the proper use of my time, talent, and treasure.
I think my problem stems from # 3.
I definitely have a time management issue. There's no doubt about that. Talent, I don't know... I think I'm making decent use of my talent(s). Now, the treasure department probably needs a little more inspection under the microscope, too... But I think that will be addressed more specifically in future studies. I'm afraid I need to close here for the sake of brevity.
Thank You for reading my journal. I hope reading insights into my life will help stimulate your own introspection. Until next time, I pray that God Richly Blesses You!
Dear Heavenly Father,
My Jesus, My Savior, Lord there is none other like You. Thank You Lord for giving us the mental capacity to ponder these important life issues. Jesus, Help me (us) know You are the Answer. You are the Truth, The Way. When we have You we have Everything. Yet, many of us are unhappy. Unsatisfied... What is the reason for that...? Is Satan firing his darts at us to confuse us and take us off the prescibed track...?
Jesus, I have a mental knowledge of Your Truth, but my faith seems so weak at times. You have shown evidence of Your Faithfulness so many times in my life. Really, what's my problem...? What's missing...?
I need You, Lord. I need You to help me find my true purpose. My complete purpose. I don't want to stay busy living an unfulfilled life. Father, Thank You for this Purpose Driven Life Study. It's making a huge difference guiding me along life's journey.
I guess I need patience too, Lord. Here I am only on Day 3 of my 40 day journey and I already want to know all the answers. Jesus, I just leave it in Your more than capable hands. I am soft clay ready to be molded by the Master Potter's hands... I am Yours, Dear Lord. Just use me as You will.
Father, I've already made a mess of today with misbudgeting my time. But I wanted to complete this study if I didn't do anything else. Lord, I ask you and I trust you to Bless the rest of my day. I offer this day up to You, Father. And I ask a special blessing on the Clear Creek Worship Band tonight. -Especially the brass section... Help us come together and play those tricky rhythems and phrases correctly, Lord.
Father, also, Bless My Sweet Wife. Keep her safe and draw her close to you. She wants to know you more just like I do, Lord. And Lord, I haven't prayed for the Prayer Warriors publicly in some time but they are always close to my heart. Please bless them and their families and their special needs.
Jesus, I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. Thank You for the day. Thank You for Eternal Salvation. Thank You for hearing my Prayer.
In Your Name, Jesus Christ I Pray.
Amen.
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
You Are Not an Accident
Day One affirmed the existence of God. We learned that Our Life is not so much about us as it is developing our relationship with Our Creator and Savior Redeemer. Day Two's Theme affirms our existence as a deliberate act of God.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes: This lesson today reminds me of a chapter from one of my favorite books: Rich Mullins: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven, By James Bryan Smith.
Rich was a Christian Recording artist whose work and life had a profound effect on my walk with God and years after his passing in a tragic car accident he's still influencing me. In An Arrow Pointing to Heaven Rich is quoted extensively about his thoughts regarding his Family Heritage.
Rich said, '...If you look at the lives of people that you have come from you realize that if they had married anyone else, if they had moved anywhere else, if their life had been one iota different then You wouldn't be here right now...'
The bible is full of genealogies. Though we may find them dull, dry reading, they are there for a reason. The biblical writers knew something that we easily forget: That we are an ongoing process, and that we are dependent upon others for our existence. The blood of our great, great grandparents flows in our veins and part of them continues on in us.
Finally, one of my favorite scripture verses from day 2's lesson is Ephesians 1:4...
'...Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love.'
No, We are definitely Not an accident. You know, today's lesson really causes me to look at my Mom and dad in a different light. I often wondered why I was born into my family. My mom and dad were not 'normal' parents by many standards. They were often a source of discouragement and disappointment to me and although there's still a lot of my growing up and developmental years to understand, now I do understand more fully that it is all part of God's Divine Plan. And as I grow and experience life, then more understanding will be revealed to me.
Until then, I can rest in the fact that there is a God who designed me for a specific purpose and that I am no accident!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You God, For giving me Life on this earth. Thank You for Life Everlasting. Thank You for Revelation and Discovery. Oh Lord, You planned out everything for me. And Your WORD says You planned all things to work out for good to those who are called to Your purpose. Well, that's Me, Lord! Thank You for that Promise. I'm holding You to it!
And, no matter how dark or impossible things may seem. I know you are there. Sometimes You make it easy to feel your presence through the manifestation of Your blessings and sometimes You are hidden to cause and allow us to grow in our faith. Either way, You are there. And you promised to never forsake us or forget us. Father, Thank You for the reassurance that we are not an accident. Thank You for Your Love, for Your tender Mercy and Grace. Thank You for Your Ever-Presence.
Lord, You have blessed me so much. Yet, still I worry about things. But help me to be strong. Help me to have Faith that overcomes, that moves mountains. I don't even have mountains that need moving, just a few hills... Oh Lord, You are Good! You are Awesome! I love You, Father. I give this day to You, Lord.
I ask that You lift up my sweet wife who is struggling a bit here lately. She loves You, Lord. And she is such a blessing to me. Help me be the positive influence she needs. Season my words with wisdom, love, compassion, and encouragement. And not just for Monica, but all those who I encounter today.
But Lord, I do especially want to intercede on Monica's behalf today. Take her in Your arms and comfort her. Sweep away the feelings of anxiety. Give peace and direction to her life. Draw her into a closer relationship with You, Father. Show her Your will for her life. And Lord, give us both patience to wait on You. Because I know Lord, I know that this Purpose Driven Life series will reveal many new life changing TRUTHS to us.
Father, Thank You for hearing my Prayer. And I Pray these Things in Jesus' name, AMEN.
Coach Sam's Personal Study Notes: This lesson today reminds me of a chapter from one of my favorite books: Rich Mullins: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven, By James Bryan Smith.
Rich was a Christian Recording artist whose work and life had a profound effect on my walk with God and years after his passing in a tragic car accident he's still influencing me. In An Arrow Pointing to Heaven Rich is quoted extensively about his thoughts regarding his Family Heritage.
Rich said, '...If you look at the lives of people that you have come from you realize that if they had married anyone else, if they had moved anywhere else, if their life had been one iota different then You wouldn't be here right now...'
The bible is full of genealogies. Though we may find them dull, dry reading, they are there for a reason. The biblical writers knew something that we easily forget: That we are an ongoing process, and that we are dependent upon others for our existence. The blood of our great, great grandparents flows in our veins and part of them continues on in us.
Finally, one of my favorite scripture verses from day 2's lesson is Ephesians 1:4...
'...Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love.'
No, We are definitely Not an accident. You know, today's lesson really causes me to look at my Mom and dad in a different light. I often wondered why I was born into my family. My mom and dad were not 'normal' parents by many standards. They were often a source of discouragement and disappointment to me and although there's still a lot of my growing up and developmental years to understand, now I do understand more fully that it is all part of God's Divine Plan. And as I grow and experience life, then more understanding will be revealed to me.
Until then, I can rest in the fact that there is a God who designed me for a specific purpose and that I am no accident!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You God, For giving me Life on this earth. Thank You for Life Everlasting. Thank You for Revelation and Discovery. Oh Lord, You planned out everything for me. And Your WORD says You planned all things to work out for good to those who are called to Your purpose. Well, that's Me, Lord! Thank You for that Promise. I'm holding You to it!
And, no matter how dark or impossible things may seem. I know you are there. Sometimes You make it easy to feel your presence through the manifestation of Your blessings and sometimes You are hidden to cause and allow us to grow in our faith. Either way, You are there. And you promised to never forsake us or forget us. Father, Thank You for the reassurance that we are not an accident. Thank You for Your Love, for Your tender Mercy and Grace. Thank You for Your Ever-Presence.
Lord, You have blessed me so much. Yet, still I worry about things. But help me to be strong. Help me to have Faith that overcomes, that moves mountains. I don't even have mountains that need moving, just a few hills... Oh Lord, You are Good! You are Awesome! I love You, Father. I give this day to You, Lord.
I ask that You lift up my sweet wife who is struggling a bit here lately. She loves You, Lord. And she is such a blessing to me. Help me be the positive influence she needs. Season my words with wisdom, love, compassion, and encouragement. And not just for Monica, but all those who I encounter today.
But Lord, I do especially want to intercede on Monica's behalf today. Take her in Your arms and comfort her. Sweep away the feelings of anxiety. Give peace and direction to her life. Draw her into a closer relationship with You, Father. Show her Your will for her life. And Lord, give us both patience to wait on You. Because I know Lord, I know that this Purpose Driven Life series will reveal many new life changing TRUTHS to us.
Father, Thank You for hearing my Prayer. And I Pray these Things in Jesus' name, AMEN.
Monday, October 18, 2004
40 days of Purpose Day One...!
I've read through the Purpose Driven Life 40 Days series on more than one occasion. This is my second time to go through the series in a small group setting. My wife is serving as my accountability partner for the next 40 days. This is my first time to journal the experience. And those of you who have read my posts over the past year know that journaling is a way of life for me. Writing things down makes everything more clear to me. Join me for the next 40 days as I embark on a journey to discover the age old question: What on Earth are we here for...?
That is the question that has plagued mankind for ever. And many have attempted to answer that question. The problem is that they all started looking for the answer in the wrong place: Within themselves. The Bible tells us that it's not about us. The answer does not lie within.
For Everything, Absolutely Everything above and below, visible and invisible... Everything got started and finds it's purpose in HIM. -Colossians 1:16
The bible says it's about God. We were made by God and for God. We were made to worship Him. To bring Glory to His Name. We must live our lives for Him.
Today is the first day of my series of the Forty Days of Purpose. I hope you'll join me every day for the next 6 weeks and learn and grow in the Lord with me.
Coach Sam's Personal Notes: We have to work on not being so selfish. We must put other's needs before our own. We owe our lives and our eternal salvation to Jesus Christ. We must always strive for a deeper relationship with God, Our Creator. One way to do that is through disciplined every day quiet time with God. Time spent reading The Word. Time spent in Prayer. Time spent just being still and listening. For me, my quiet time is early in the morning. It's also when I'm alone driving in my car. My prayer time can come at almost any time. And it frequently comes when I'm right in the middle of a task. Frequently it comes while I'm engaging others in conversation. Yes, many times I'll be praying silently that God is seasoning my words and giving me discernment over particular matters and situations....
In short, we must practice being in God's presence just as if we were practicing our tennis shots. If you don't put in the practice time, You're not going to improve. You will not move up to the next level. In fact, if you don't 'practice' then the skills you presently have will start to fade and deteriorate.
My Prayer for the Day: Dear Heavenly Father, Lord You made everything. You can do anything. You are the ruler of above, below and inbetween. Jesus, I thank You for making me. For planning my life out. I thank You for designing my life with a purpose in mind. I'm here for You, Lord. You are my creator. I am Yours. What did You make me for...? Why am I here? That is the question I am going to let You answer for the next 40 days.
The bible advises us to take 40 days to prepare for holy pursuits. There are many references to God using a 40 day period to prepare people for spiritual growth... Even Jesus Himself submitteded to forty days of fasting and prayer to draw closer to God and empower His Ministry.
Father, this is Day One. I give this day to You, Lord. I love You, Lord. I seek You, Jesus. Help me to draw closer to You. Comfort me in these times of uncertainty. Bless my wife and family. Help me to stay disciplined and honor You in every way. In my interaction with others, in my thoughts, in my diet, and in the 100 percent giving of myself to the task at hand. Jesus, help me to be a more authentic Christian.
Thank You for your precious blood that grants us salvation and a life of eternal happiness.
Lord Jesus, in Your Holy Name I pray,
Amen.
That is the question that has plagued mankind for ever. And many have attempted to answer that question. The problem is that they all started looking for the answer in the wrong place: Within themselves. The Bible tells us that it's not about us. The answer does not lie within.
For Everything, Absolutely Everything above and below, visible and invisible... Everything got started and finds it's purpose in HIM. -Colossians 1:16
The bible says it's about God. We were made by God and for God. We were made to worship Him. To bring Glory to His Name. We must live our lives for Him.
Today is the first day of my series of the Forty Days of Purpose. I hope you'll join me every day for the next 6 weeks and learn and grow in the Lord with me.
Coach Sam's Personal Notes: We have to work on not being so selfish. We must put other's needs before our own. We owe our lives and our eternal salvation to Jesus Christ. We must always strive for a deeper relationship with God, Our Creator. One way to do that is through disciplined every day quiet time with God. Time spent reading The Word. Time spent in Prayer. Time spent just being still and listening. For me, my quiet time is early in the morning. It's also when I'm alone driving in my car. My prayer time can come at almost any time. And it frequently comes when I'm right in the middle of a task. Frequently it comes while I'm engaging others in conversation. Yes, many times I'll be praying silently that God is seasoning my words and giving me discernment over particular matters and situations....
In short, we must practice being in God's presence just as if we were practicing our tennis shots. If you don't put in the practice time, You're not going to improve. You will not move up to the next level. In fact, if you don't 'practice' then the skills you presently have will start to fade and deteriorate.
My Prayer for the Day: Dear Heavenly Father, Lord You made everything. You can do anything. You are the ruler of above, below and inbetween. Jesus, I thank You for making me. For planning my life out. I thank You for designing my life with a purpose in mind. I'm here for You, Lord. You are my creator. I am Yours. What did You make me for...? Why am I here? That is the question I am going to let You answer for the next 40 days.
The bible advises us to take 40 days to prepare for holy pursuits. There are many references to God using a 40 day period to prepare people for spiritual growth... Even Jesus Himself submitteded to forty days of fasting and prayer to draw closer to God and empower His Ministry.
Father, this is Day One. I give this day to You, Lord. I love You, Lord. I seek You, Jesus. Help me to draw closer to You. Comfort me in these times of uncertainty. Bless my wife and family. Help me to stay disciplined and honor You in every way. In my interaction with others, in my thoughts, in my diet, and in the 100 percent giving of myself to the task at hand. Jesus, help me to be a more authentic Christian.
Thank You for your precious blood that grants us salvation and a life of eternal happiness.
Lord Jesus, in Your Holy Name I pray,
Amen.
Saturday, October 16, 2004
Prayer for the Church
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to lift up Clear Creek Community Church this morning. Lord, Clear Creek is doing a mighty work in Your Name. Help them reach the unchurched. Help them bring souls to you. Bless the ministry leaders and all their hard work expanding the church and equipping the church body to assist in ministry.
Lord help us all to have sanity in our lives and not over commit in our zealousness to effect good works for the kingdom. Father, I ask that you bless the finances of the church as it embarks on a huge giving campaign to raise funds for new buildings. In that regard Lord, I ask financial blessings for myself and Monica so that we might be able to share our wealth with the church.
But Father, I just want to thank You for Clear Creek Community Church. It has meant (and means) so much to my wife and I. That is why I lift the church up to You in prayer this morning.
I love You, Lord. And In Jesus' Name I pray, AMEN.
I want to lift up Clear Creek Community Church this morning. Lord, Clear Creek is doing a mighty work in Your Name. Help them reach the unchurched. Help them bring souls to you. Bless the ministry leaders and all their hard work expanding the church and equipping the church body to assist in ministry.
Lord help us all to have sanity in our lives and not over commit in our zealousness to effect good works for the kingdom. Father, I ask that you bless the finances of the church as it embarks on a huge giving campaign to raise funds for new buildings. In that regard Lord, I ask financial blessings for myself and Monica so that we might be able to share our wealth with the church.
But Father, I just want to thank You for Clear Creek Community Church. It has meant (and means) so much to my wife and I. That is why I lift the church up to You in prayer this morning.
I love You, Lord. And In Jesus' Name I pray, AMEN.
Friday, October 15, 2004
Finish the Week Strong
Dear Heavenly Father,
I need You Today, Lord. Help me to teach good lessons this morning and greatly impact my students in a positive way. Let them see the joy in my heart that living as a child of God brings.
So, with that in regard Lord, I need You to Renew my spirit this morning. I'm still a bit overwhelmed with the many projects I have on my plate. Jesus, You can fix all things. Fix me. Help me to be more organized and efficient. I just want to live for you, Lord. I want to honor You with being a good steward of my time, talents, and treasure. As I get certain obligations completed help me to not over extend myself again.
Father God, I just give all these cares to You, Lord. My Savior. My Redeemer. My Steady Rock.
I love You Lord. I thank You and Praise You for All You have done for me. For Blessing me with a beautiful wife, great friends and family, and a loving, supporting church to minister to me. Lord Jesus, most of all I thank you for the promise of Your Salvation. For going to the Cross for Me. I give this day to You Lord. And In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN
I need You Today, Lord. Help me to teach good lessons this morning and greatly impact my students in a positive way. Let them see the joy in my heart that living as a child of God brings.
So, with that in regard Lord, I need You to Renew my spirit this morning. I'm still a bit overwhelmed with the many projects I have on my plate. Jesus, You can fix all things. Fix me. Help me to be more organized and efficient. I just want to live for you, Lord. I want to honor You with being a good steward of my time, talents, and treasure. As I get certain obligations completed help me to not over extend myself again.
Father God, I just give all these cares to You, Lord. My Savior. My Redeemer. My Steady Rock.
I love You Lord. I thank You and Praise You for All You have done for me. For Blessing me with a beautiful wife, great friends and family, and a loving, supporting church to minister to me. Lord Jesus, most of all I thank you for the promise of Your Salvation. For going to the Cross for Me. I give this day to You Lord. And In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Another Year Older...!
You know you're getting old when you can't even remember how old you are! A few weeks ago I reported that I would be 40 in a couple of weeks. Several people reported to me that they thought I was in error and sure enough, I was! I'm only 39 today...! So, sorry... Coach Sam is truly losing his mind...!
Today I have just a prayer. No message other than Rich Mullins' Timeless Phrase:
'...Be God's...'
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You have allowed me to see 39 years of life on this earth. I know I haven't been a good steward of my time, talent, and treasure during all those years but Lord I Thank You for blessing me anyway. As I step into my 40th year I promise to give My Utmost for Your Highest. I will live for You, Jesus. And that will be evident in the way I conduct myself. The words that come out of my mouth, my deeds, and my thoughts will be pure and holy...
I love You, Lord. Your Son laid down his earthly life so that I might have eternal life. That was the greatest gift! But Lord, You have chosen to bless me personally in so many other ways I couldn't begin to do justice to the list.
Thank You for my life. Thank you for my wife and brothers and sisters, parents in law and step son. Dear Lord thank You for my Friends. Thank You for Godly Men like my friend Steve who spent a year of his life discipling me once a week in the TRUTH, Your Word. Thank You for Glenn who sharpens me daily with his word of wisdom. Thank you for the pastoral staff at Clear Creek Communuity Church. Finally Father, Thank You for all my experiences, good and bad, especially the bad. Those experiences have shaped me and made me the man I am today.
But Lord, I know You're not finished with me yet. I am still being crafted by Your Holy Hand. Don't ever stop working on me, Lord. Keep me a 'work in progress' and keep me progressing!
Father, I love You. I give this day, My Birthday, to You. I give my life to You, Lord. And I pledge to make my 40th year of life the most significant and impacting yet!
Lord Jesus, In Your Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
Today I have just a prayer. No message other than Rich Mullins' Timeless Phrase:
'...Be God's...'
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You have allowed me to see 39 years of life on this earth. I know I haven't been a good steward of my time, talent, and treasure during all those years but Lord I Thank You for blessing me anyway. As I step into my 40th year I promise to give My Utmost for Your Highest. I will live for You, Jesus. And that will be evident in the way I conduct myself. The words that come out of my mouth, my deeds, and my thoughts will be pure and holy...
I love You, Lord. Your Son laid down his earthly life so that I might have eternal life. That was the greatest gift! But Lord, You have chosen to bless me personally in so many other ways I couldn't begin to do justice to the list.
Thank You for my life. Thank you for my wife and brothers and sisters, parents in law and step son. Dear Lord thank You for my Friends. Thank You for Godly Men like my friend Steve who spent a year of his life discipling me once a week in the TRUTH, Your Word. Thank You for Glenn who sharpens me daily with his word of wisdom. Thank you for the pastoral staff at Clear Creek Communuity Church. Finally Father, Thank You for all my experiences, good and bad, especially the bad. Those experiences have shaped me and made me the man I am today.
But Lord, I know You're not finished with me yet. I am still being crafted by Your Holy Hand. Don't ever stop working on me, Lord. Keep me a 'work in progress' and keep me progressing!
Father, I love You. I give this day, My Birthday, to You. I give my life to You, Lord. And I pledge to make my 40th year of life the most significant and impacting yet!
Lord Jesus, In Your Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
The Big Question
Hello Friends,
I'm still having a bit of a problem with my Toshiba laptop computer right now so I'm using Monica's Dell this morning. Today's thought for the day lesson will be short. I just want to bring up a question that came up in my small group meeting last Friday.
Our Group is about to start the Forty Days of Purpose series and one of our leaders made a very interesting comment during his over view of the series. He said that when he had previously done this study the question came to him and it hit him right between the eyes as a significantly defining question.
The question is: Who will be in Heaven because of you...? Whose life have You made a difference in that caused that person to give their life to Jesus...?
Certainly, we may not know who all we might be impacting with our witness. And We won't fully know the fruits of our lives until we ourselves get to heaven. But that really is a defining question. I mean, are we even consciously on the radar screen of positively impacting others for Christ?
I know that for myself personally, I waiver somewhere between being Absolutely on Fire for Jesus to just worrying about myself, existing, and trying to survive this crazy, fast paced world. -And that's a pretty wide contrast, I know. But I believe that everyone experiences peaks and valleys in life. We go through seasons. And I'm learning more and more that no matter what we are experiencing that God is always there right next to us. In high or low times, God is there. He is Ever-Present.
So ponder that for a bit today in your musings and quiet time. I think God is really preparing Monica and I for a Great Revelation in the next 40 days. My prayer journal will be closely following the Forty Days of Purpose series and I pray that you will tune in regularly and join me in drawing into a closer relationship with Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You hold the whole world in Your hands. Nothing is out of your reach. You can do all things. Thank You Father for blessing me. Thank you for taking care of my needs abundantly. I love You, Lord.
I ask that You prepare my heart for growth during these next 40 days. I ask for your Holy Spirit to annoint me. Lord, I am aware that my deeds and words are seen and heard by those who I may not even be aware of. Let my words be seasoned with the salt of your truth and my actions be filled with grace.
Lord Jesus, I pray in your name, Amen.
I'm still having a bit of a problem with my Toshiba laptop computer right now so I'm using Monica's Dell this morning. Today's thought for the day lesson will be short. I just want to bring up a question that came up in my small group meeting last Friday.
Our Group is about to start the Forty Days of Purpose series and one of our leaders made a very interesting comment during his over view of the series. He said that when he had previously done this study the question came to him and it hit him right between the eyes as a significantly defining question.
The question is: Who will be in Heaven because of you...? Whose life have You made a difference in that caused that person to give their life to Jesus...?
Certainly, we may not know who all we might be impacting with our witness. And We won't fully know the fruits of our lives until we ourselves get to heaven. But that really is a defining question. I mean, are we even consciously on the radar screen of positively impacting others for Christ?
I know that for myself personally, I waiver somewhere between being Absolutely on Fire for Jesus to just worrying about myself, existing, and trying to survive this crazy, fast paced world. -And that's a pretty wide contrast, I know. But I believe that everyone experiences peaks and valleys in life. We go through seasons. And I'm learning more and more that no matter what we are experiencing that God is always there right next to us. In high or low times, God is there. He is Ever-Present.
So ponder that for a bit today in your musings and quiet time. I think God is really preparing Monica and I for a Great Revelation in the next 40 days. My prayer journal will be closely following the Forty Days of Purpose series and I pray that you will tune in regularly and join me in drawing into a closer relationship with Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You hold the whole world in Your hands. Nothing is out of your reach. You can do all things. Thank You Father for blessing me. Thank you for taking care of my needs abundantly. I love You, Lord.
I ask that You prepare my heart for growth during these next 40 days. I ask for your Holy Spirit to annoint me. Lord, I am aware that my deeds and words are seen and heard by those who I may not even be aware of. Let my words be seasoned with the salt of your truth and my actions be filled with grace.
Lord Jesus, I pray in your name, Amen.
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Praise Report...!
I have another praise report! Today at around 12:30 PM we got a call from the college of Biblical Studies and they offered Monica a part time job in their accounting department....!
Although Monica is getting busier and busier with her art commissions, we could certainly use the extra income. And this will get us more involved at the college. (two things we've both been praying a lot about)
God is so Faithful...! Yea God...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Once again Thank You for Blessing Monica and I. You are an awesome God and Father. You always watch over your adopted children. Jesus, I'm sorry that I worried. I'm sorry that my faith wasn't as strong as it could have been. But Lord, inspite of my uncertainty, You Blessed us anyway. Jesus, I do trust in You. And I will help encourage others to do the same. I Love You.
In Jesus' Name I pray,
AMEN
Although Monica is getting busier and busier with her art commissions, we could certainly use the extra income. And this will get us more involved at the college. (two things we've both been praying a lot about)
God is so Faithful...! Yea God...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Once again Thank You for Blessing Monica and I. You are an awesome God and Father. You always watch over your adopted children. Jesus, I'm sorry that I worried. I'm sorry that my faith wasn't as strong as it could have been. But Lord, inspite of my uncertainty, You Blessed us anyway. Jesus, I do trust in You. And I will help encourage others to do the same. I Love You.
In Jesus' Name I pray,
AMEN
Monday, October 11, 2004
Prayer for the Start of the Week
Dear Heavenly Father,
I am starting the week off a little under the weather spiritually. But God, You are My Redeemer. My Comforter. Renew Me, Lord. Help me, Father. I cry out to You. As I seek quiet time with You, Lord I ask that You just speak to my heart. Reveal Your Will to me. Strengthen Me.
Guard my thoughts and actions, Lord. Let me be Your witness in all I do. I want to be man of holy influence to my wife and to my brothers and sisters in Christ.
You are a Strong and Mighty God. Able to do All things. And you are a loving, tender Father who wants to bestow blessings on His children. Oh Lord, although I am not worthy of Your Riches, Thank You for having mercy on me, a poor sinner.
Thank You for adopting me into the family of Christ.
Father, You know my short comings. You know my needs. I bow down in humble adoration and just lay them at Your feet this morning.
Lord Jesus, I Pray in Your Holy Name, Amen.
I am starting the week off a little under the weather spiritually. But God, You are My Redeemer. My Comforter. Renew Me, Lord. Help me, Father. I cry out to You. As I seek quiet time with You, Lord I ask that You just speak to my heart. Reveal Your Will to me. Strengthen Me.
Guard my thoughts and actions, Lord. Let me be Your witness in all I do. I want to be man of holy influence to my wife and to my brothers and sisters in Christ.
You are a Strong and Mighty God. Able to do All things. And you are a loving, tender Father who wants to bestow blessings on His children. Oh Lord, although I am not worthy of Your Riches, Thank You for having mercy on me, a poor sinner.
Thank You for adopting me into the family of Christ.
Father, You know my short comings. You know my needs. I bow down in humble adoration and just lay them at Your feet this morning.
Lord Jesus, I Pray in Your Holy Name, Amen.
Friday, October 08, 2004
A Thankful Friday
I'd like to keep up a tradition of emphasizing Friday as a day of thanks and praise. So there will be no scripture study this morning.... Just Prayer.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I'm just counting my blessings. You have blessed me greatly, Lord. You are a Good and Kind, and Generous and Loving and Holy Father. -Just to know You and have the privilege of worshipping You is a great blessing. I'm Thankful for many things, but most of all, I'm Thankful for You, Lord. That You sent Your Son and He Freely chose to die on a wooden cross for my sins and the sins of the world. I just Thank You for that knowledge. I Thank You for how that forever changed the world. How that act gave true meaning to our lives. I Thank You that You have personally called me to live for You and Witness through the way I live my Life.
Lord, I was just visiting with my wife about this yesterday: We marvel at how You made everyone different. And how You put certain people together to be a team. (like us) We are both so Thankful that we have each other. We are Thankful for our differences and how they complement us. How my weaknesses are Monica's Strengths and vice -versa. We Love each other and we need each other and You have brought us together. Thank You and Praise You Oh Lord!
Father, I have good friends and family. Thank You, Lord. I have a job that I love and I feel fulfilled and I thank You that I can pay my bills with the fruits of my labor. I have health. I think most everyone takes that for granted until it is taken away from them. But Lord I acknowledge that I have none of this on account of Sam Chadwell. None of it is from Me, Lord. It's all You. Your Blessings. Everything is Yours. I am just a steward. A caretaker of Your Gifts.
My only request today, Lord is that You help me to become the best Steward of your gifts and blessings that I can be. Help me be the best Husband. Help me be the best Coach. Help me be the Best Brother to my brothers and sisters in You.
Father I come to You in complete humility this morning. I just Thank You Jesus for Your Love. Thank You for Your Tender Mercy and Compassion to forgive me my sins. I Praise and Worship You. And in Your Precious Son's Holy Name I pray. AMEN.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I'm just counting my blessings. You have blessed me greatly, Lord. You are a Good and Kind, and Generous and Loving and Holy Father. -Just to know You and have the privilege of worshipping You is a great blessing. I'm Thankful for many things, but most of all, I'm Thankful for You, Lord. That You sent Your Son and He Freely chose to die on a wooden cross for my sins and the sins of the world. I just Thank You for that knowledge. I Thank You for how that forever changed the world. How that act gave true meaning to our lives. I Thank You that You have personally called me to live for You and Witness through the way I live my Life.
Lord, I was just visiting with my wife about this yesterday: We marvel at how You made everyone different. And how You put certain people together to be a team. (like us) We are both so Thankful that we have each other. We are Thankful for our differences and how they complement us. How my weaknesses are Monica's Strengths and vice -versa. We Love each other and we need each other and You have brought us together. Thank You and Praise You Oh Lord!
Father, I have good friends and family. Thank You, Lord. I have a job that I love and I feel fulfilled and I thank You that I can pay my bills with the fruits of my labor. I have health. I think most everyone takes that for granted until it is taken away from them. But Lord I acknowledge that I have none of this on account of Sam Chadwell. None of it is from Me, Lord. It's all You. Your Blessings. Everything is Yours. I am just a steward. A caretaker of Your Gifts.
My only request today, Lord is that You help me to become the best Steward of your gifts and blessings that I can be. Help me be the best Husband. Help me be the best Coach. Help me be the Best Brother to my brothers and sisters in You.
Father I come to You in complete humility this morning. I just Thank You Jesus for Your Love. Thank You for Your Tender Mercy and Compassion to forgive me my sins. I Praise and Worship You. And in Your Precious Son's Holy Name I pray. AMEN.
Thursday, October 07, 2004
1 Timothy 2:1-8
I have been devoting the past 5 months to the study of prayer and how to communicate better with God. The past few weeks I have been looking at how the words 'Prayer' and 'Pray' are referenced in the bible. Here's a quick recap: The word 'Prayer' is used 105 times in the bible. 'Pray 'is used 121 times. Don't worry, I'm not going to exegete all 226 verses. But I am completing my research of this particular word study series tomorrow. Then for the next few weeks I intend to just devote myself to prayer only for awhile. I need to wait for God to lead me to my next course of action for this journal. Right now God is leading me to just conduct my own independent bible study and Pray, Pray, Pray.
Today's study comes from 1 Timothy. Timothy was a new testament evangelist. He was converted by the Apostle Paul. Paul loved him as his own son. Timothy spent a good deal of time ministering to the church at Ephesus. In Paul's first letter to Timothy the first 8 verses deal specifically with instruction on prayer. He doesn't give us a general 'form' for prayer but rather instructs us about prayer and who we are to pray for: EVERYONE...! I have included the entire passage for context but today I am just looking specifically at verse 8.
1 Tim 2:1-8 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all men-the testimony given in its proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle-I am telling the truth, I am not lying-and a teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles.
8 I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing. (from New International Version)
Everywhere means prayer is not to be confined to any one particular place, but men may pray in any place. No place is more acceptable to God than another. We must pray in our houses with our families, pray at our meals, pray when we are on journeys, and pray in public and private places. It is also the will of God that in prayer we should lift up holy hands: For our hands to be holy it means they are not stained from sin. They must be washed in the blood. We need to confess our sins before we pray so that our hands will be Holy. Without Anger means that we can't be mad, angry, or upset with others when we go to pray. We should go and reconcile ourselves with those we have disagreements with before we pray. Without Disputing means we must have faith. We must pray without doubting. God is Good and Faithful. He never lets the Righteous fall. He works all things for good to those who are called to His purposes.
Today's study comes from 1 Timothy. Timothy was a new testament evangelist. He was converted by the Apostle Paul. Paul loved him as his own son. Timothy spent a good deal of time ministering to the church at Ephesus. In Paul's first letter to Timothy the first 8 verses deal specifically with instruction on prayer. He doesn't give us a general 'form' for prayer but rather instructs us about prayer and who we are to pray for: EVERYONE...! I have included the entire passage for context but today I am just looking specifically at verse 8.
1 Tim 2:1-8 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all men-the testimony given in its proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle-I am telling the truth, I am not lying-and a teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles.
8 I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing. (from New International Version)
Everywhere means prayer is not to be confined to any one particular place, but men may pray in any place. No place is more acceptable to God than another. We must pray in our houses with our families, pray at our meals, pray when we are on journeys, and pray in public and private places. It is also the will of God that in prayer we should lift up holy hands: For our hands to be holy it means they are not stained from sin. They must be washed in the blood. We need to confess our sins before we pray so that our hands will be Holy. Without Anger means that we can't be mad, angry, or upset with others when we go to pray. We should go and reconcile ourselves with those we have disagreements with before we pray. Without Disputing means we must have faith. We must pray without doubting. God is Good and Faithful. He never lets the Righteous fall. He works all things for good to those who are called to His purposes.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I need You Lord. I need forgiveness. I am starting to feel a 'disconnect'. I had a horrible day yesterday. So many things went wrong I just had to call it a day and go home. I know you are trying to get my attention. Well, You've got it. And I want to recommit to You. I want to dive into Your Word like never before. Renew my Passion, Lord. And use me to do Your Will.
Help me to Go boldly proclaiming your Glory Everywhere. Wash my Hands, Oh Lord. Forgive my sins. I lift these hands to You My Savior, My Deliverer. With Love in my heart for all men, I believe in You, Lord. You are God. You Can do All Things. You want to bestow blessings on Your Children. Bless Me, Lord. Give me Grace to withstand temptations and face trials. And allow me to be a blessing to others: My Wife, My Family, My Students, My Brothers and Sisters in the Body of Christ... Father help me to especially be a blessing to seekers and non believers.
I love You, Lord. I give this day to you. I'm ready to go out and fight the Good Fight. Thank You for hearing my prayer. Jesus, I pray this in Your Holy Name, AMEN.
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
Colossians 4:2-6
2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
(from New International Version)
(from New International Version)
In Verse 2 Paul is instructing and encouraging the Colossian Church to pray. 'Being Watchful' implies that everyone should be on the lookout for opportunities to pray and intercede. 'Thankful' refers to the fact that we should solemnly acknowledge God's tender mercies towards us. All Prayers should include Thanksgiving.
In Verse 3 Paul is asking specifically that the church congregation pray for he and the other church leaders to have an effective ministry. 'For which I am in chains..." Reminds us that Paul was in jail at the time of his writing this letter. Verse 4 has Paul making another specific request: To be able to present his messages clearly and effectively. We should always pray for our ministers and church staff.
Verses 5-6 outline some of the relative duties of an Authentic Christian. We are to be careful of the way we act towards and treat 'outsiders' (non Christians) We don't want to cause or increase prejudice against religion. We must watch our words. Words have much power in them. Let us always be edifying and encouraging. And let us do our home work, becoming students of the bible so that our words will be full of wisdom and we will know how to answer any question put to us. In that way, our words will be seasoned like salt.
Dear Heavenly Father...
Oh Lord Thank You for Another Day. Just thank You for meeting my needs, Lord. I pray that I am worthy to receive Your Bountiful Goodness... Lord, thank You once again for Prayer. It's so awesome to start my day by connecting to You in Holy Prayer.
Lord, the Apostle Paul gave us great encouragement and instruction on how to live in honor of You. I pray that I am all the more prayerful, and watchful for opportunities, and that my words are seasoned through bible study, prayer, and connection to You. Jesus, help me be a better and more effective witness. Give me boldness Lord to act decisively when ever I see an opportunity.
And Lord, Thanks for our Pastors at Clear Creek Community Church. I lift them up to You Lord. Bless them and their families. Bless their ministries as they have devoted their lives to expanding Your Kingdom.
Father, I want to close with more Thanks and Praise. I am so Thankful for my sweet wife Monica and mom and dad and son. You have blessed me tremendously...! God, You are just an Awesome God...! I love You!
And in Jesus' Name I Pray,
Amen.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
Prayer for America
I'm interrupting my normal series on scriptures referring to prayer and praise to pray for a topic that I feel extremely passionate about. And You should be passionate about this topic, too. -America, Our Home Sweet Home.
You see, I am growing increasingly concerned with the direction I see our country heading. I just finished writing a scathing journal entry in my other journal criticizing ABC for it's programming of the the TV Show: 'Desperate Housewives'. TV just continues to get trashier and trashier.... Our Presidential Race is being packaged by the media as 'entertainment'. The Pledge of Allegiance is under attack because some people find the words 'Under God' to be offensive. The sanctity of marriage as defined as an act between one man and one woman is under severe scrutiny by the courts because of Gay Rights Activists... Sigh... And that's just some of our domestic issues. I haven't even touched on Global events...
It can all be a bit overwhelming at times... And Really what can We do...? You and I...?
Well, we can start by not giving up...! We're not going to throw in the towel. We are going to pray. We are going to continue propping up the country one person at a time through kindness and encouragement. We're going to raise up our children and the young people within our sphere of influence to be God-Fearing and Respectful. And then we're going to pray some more...!
The bible says: The Prayers of a Righteous Man Availeth Much...! That means we can get a lot done through intercessory prayer....! Please join me today as I pray for America.
Dear Lord,
You have Blessed America. You once shed Your Grace on US. But we have turned away. look at where the country is headed. Our media is polluted with a very worldly secular view. Your words are systematically being stricken from all public places. We kill babies before they are born.
But Father I pray that You reserve judgment on this land a little longer. Raise up churches and leaders within the communities all across America. (and the world) Raise up Prayer Warriors to intercede in the areas that need attention... (virtually Everywhere...) Let's start a Revival across the land beginning with our own little sphere of influence right where we are planted.
OH God, You are a capable God. You are very much able to fix all things. The whole world is in Your hands. Jesus we love You. And we need a Savior like we've never needed before. Father, in Christ Jesus ' Name I Pray, Amen
You see, I am growing increasingly concerned with the direction I see our country heading. I just finished writing a scathing journal entry in my other journal criticizing ABC for it's programming of the the TV Show: 'Desperate Housewives'. TV just continues to get trashier and trashier.... Our Presidential Race is being packaged by the media as 'entertainment'. The Pledge of Allegiance is under attack because some people find the words 'Under God' to be offensive. The sanctity of marriage as defined as an act between one man and one woman is under severe scrutiny by the courts because of Gay Rights Activists... Sigh... And that's just some of our domestic issues. I haven't even touched on Global events...
It can all be a bit overwhelming at times... And Really what can We do...? You and I...?
Well, we can start by not giving up...! We're not going to throw in the towel. We are going to pray. We are going to continue propping up the country one person at a time through kindness and encouragement. We're going to raise up our children and the young people within our sphere of influence to be God-Fearing and Respectful. And then we're going to pray some more...!
The bible says: The Prayers of a Righteous Man Availeth Much...! That means we can get a lot done through intercessory prayer....! Please join me today as I pray for America.
Dear Lord,
You have Blessed America. You once shed Your Grace on US. But we have turned away. look at where the country is headed. Our media is polluted with a very worldly secular view. Your words are systematically being stricken from all public places. We kill babies before they are born.
But Father I pray that You reserve judgment on this land a little longer. Raise up churches and leaders within the communities all across America. (and the world) Raise up Prayer Warriors to intercede in the areas that need attention... (virtually Everywhere...) Let's start a Revival across the land beginning with our own little sphere of influence right where we are planted.
OH God, You are a capable God. You are very much able to fix all things. The whole world is in Your hands. Jesus we love You. And we need a Savior like we've never needed before. Father, in Christ Jesus ' Name I Pray, Amen
Monday, October 04, 2004
Isaiah 54:16
'No weapon formed against you will prevail...' This verse doesn't have so much to do with prayer but it is one of my favorite verses. And it certainly fits right into prayers. Joel Osteen quoted it in a prayer last night on a televised sermon at Lakewood Church. It is certainly a reassuring verse. It gives comfort to the discouraged. It claims victory over the Evil One. No matter what your trial may be, or how bleak the outlook God is Faithful and with Him all things are possible.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord Jesus You are an Awesome God. You are Our Great Protector. We may withstand trials and endure persecution but no weapon can really harm us and take away our position in YOU. That's what Your Salvation does for us. Oh Mighty God, maker of Heaven and Earth, I just praise You for Your Glory. Father I just lay my cares and troubles at Your feet. My wants and desires are nothing, Lord. I depend on You totally for Your Grace and Mercy.
Father, I claim victory in You today. And Lord I give this day back to You. Allow me to go out into the world today with a smile on my face and help me put a smile on other faces. Enable me to be a great encourager today. Help me to better coach others not only in tennis, but in life. Let my life and my wife's life be a shining example of You. Not only through or words, but our actions.
Father, there are many out there with special needs today. Remember especially the needs of the Prayer Warriors. Lord Jesus thank you for Your Protection. Thanks You for Your Love, Grace, and Mercy. Thank You for the gift of Prayer and for hearing Our Prayers Thank You for making us the Victor and not the victim.
Lord I love You. And In Jesus name I pray, AMEN.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord Jesus You are an Awesome God. You are Our Great Protector. We may withstand trials and endure persecution but no weapon can really harm us and take away our position in YOU. That's what Your Salvation does for us. Oh Mighty God, maker of Heaven and Earth, I just praise You for Your Glory. Father I just lay my cares and troubles at Your feet. My wants and desires are nothing, Lord. I depend on You totally for Your Grace and Mercy.
Father, I claim victory in You today. And Lord I give this day back to You. Allow me to go out into the world today with a smile on my face and help me put a smile on other faces. Enable me to be a great encourager today. Help me to better coach others not only in tennis, but in life. Let my life and my wife's life be a shining example of You. Not only through or words, but our actions.
Father, there are many out there with special needs today. Remember especially the needs of the Prayer Warriors. Lord Jesus thank you for Your Protection. Thanks You for Your Love, Grace, and Mercy. Thank You for the gift of Prayer and for hearing Our Prayers Thank You for making us the Victor and not the victim.
Lord I love You. And In Jesus name I pray, AMEN.
Saturday, October 02, 2004
Weekend Postings...
Hello Friends,
It seems that more and more I am tied to the computer these days. In order to have a little 'sanity' in my life I may not always post my prayers on the weekends. Now, that doesn't mean that I'm not praying on my own... No, I firmly believe in an orderly, disciplined prayer life. And the bible commands us to 'pray without ceasing...' But I probably won't be posting to this journal again until Monday.
Thanks for reading my journal. I'll look forward to spending time here again Monday morning. I hope you has an awesome weekend. It is my prayer that God Richly Bless each and every one of you.
In His Service,
Coach Sam
It seems that more and more I am tied to the computer these days. In order to have a little 'sanity' in my life I may not always post my prayers on the weekends. Now, that doesn't mean that I'm not praying on my own... No, I firmly believe in an orderly, disciplined prayer life. And the bible commands us to 'pray without ceasing...' But I probably won't be posting to this journal again until Monday.
Thanks for reading my journal. I'll look forward to spending time here again Monday morning. I hope you has an awesome weekend. It is my prayer that God Richly Bless each and every one of you.
In His Service,
Coach Sam
Friday, October 01, 2004
Is the Bible Relevant???
The following commentary is paraphrased from an interview with Dr Charles Stanley recently. A question posed to Dr Stanley went something like: this: The bible was written several thousand years ago. The technology and lifestyle of current day civilization is so vastly different than that of biblical times. How can present day people relate to the bible? Shouldn't we just pick and choose the few scripture verses that relate to our own particular situation and disregard the rest?
Dr Stanley responded with: The truth is, the Bible relates to every situation we face today. All of the authors wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. He doesn't make mistakes, and He is always timely and eternal. The Bible applies to people in all cultures, all generations, all races, and all situations, circumstances, and social stratas. The Bible is about real people, places, and things. Archaeologists are revealing more and more about the accuracy of the Bible. The Bible is the most studied and researched book in the history of mankind, and what it says has been shown to be true again and again. The commandments of the Bible are the absolutes of God-His opinions on sin, judgment, righteousness, obedience, forgiveness, and holiness have not changed and will not change. If the devil can get you to misinterpret God's Word that addresses a particular need or situation, he knows that you are just one step closer to yielding to that temptation.
I love the teaching of Dr Charles Stanley. If you are not familiar with him check out his website. Go to http://www.intouch.org I try to wake up by at least 6 AM every day and listen to his broadcast on KHCB FM Radio 105.7 KHCB stands for 'Keeping HIM Close By'. -And that's just what it does. Monica and I just recently ordered a 10 sermon series from Dr Stanley and when I finish my series study on the use of prayer in the bible I plan to do a project based on how the Truth Really Does Set A Person Free.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You are so Wondrous. You Created all things. You just 'spoke' everything into existence. You created everything with a purpose. Most importantly You created man with a purpose: To know You and Love You and Worship You and tell others about You is the reason we are here on this earth. I'm sold out on You, Jesus. And I Do Believe in the bible. And I just Thank You Lord for Your Word. The bible is THE TRUTH.
Father, I try to make Fridays just about Thanks and Praise and that's one of the things I'm most thankful for: Your Word. Thank You for leaving us an instruction manual on how to live life. And Thank You Lord for inspiring great teachers like Dr Charles Stanley. You have certainly molded and shaped my life through his words of wisdom.
Lord Jesus, You have been particularly faithful to my wife and I. Thank You Lord, for giving us each other. Monica and I are a great team and we look forward to doing great things for the Glory of Your Kingdom together. Thank You for being right in the midst of my marriage all the time. We are a cord of three strands. You are our center cord, Lord. Our lives are wrapped around You.
Father, I just thank You for loving us and caring for us enough to send Jesus to prepare the path of our salvation. Lord, the only petition I have is that You bless me to know You better. That You reveal Your Truth to me in my studies quickly, Lord. And Lord that You use me in a mighty way to instruct, encourage and inspire others. I love You, Lord.
And in Jesus' Precious Name I Pray, AMEN.
Dr Stanley responded with: The truth is, the Bible relates to every situation we face today. All of the authors wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. He doesn't make mistakes, and He is always timely and eternal. The Bible applies to people in all cultures, all generations, all races, and all situations, circumstances, and social stratas. The Bible is about real people, places, and things. Archaeologists are revealing more and more about the accuracy of the Bible. The Bible is the most studied and researched book in the history of mankind, and what it says has been shown to be true again and again. The commandments of the Bible are the absolutes of God-His opinions on sin, judgment, righteousness, obedience, forgiveness, and holiness have not changed and will not change. If the devil can get you to misinterpret God's Word that addresses a particular need or situation, he knows that you are just one step closer to yielding to that temptation.
I love the teaching of Dr Charles Stanley. If you are not familiar with him check out his website. Go to http://www.intouch.org I try to wake up by at least 6 AM every day and listen to his broadcast on KHCB FM Radio 105.7 KHCB stands for 'Keeping HIM Close By'. -And that's just what it does. Monica and I just recently ordered a 10 sermon series from Dr Stanley and when I finish my series study on the use of prayer in the bible I plan to do a project based on how the Truth Really Does Set A Person Free.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, You are so Wondrous. You Created all things. You just 'spoke' everything into existence. You created everything with a purpose. Most importantly You created man with a purpose: To know You and Love You and Worship You and tell others about You is the reason we are here on this earth. I'm sold out on You, Jesus. And I Do Believe in the bible. And I just Thank You Lord for Your Word. The bible is THE TRUTH.
Father, I try to make Fridays just about Thanks and Praise and that's one of the things I'm most thankful for: Your Word. Thank You for leaving us an instruction manual on how to live life. And Thank You Lord for inspiring great teachers like Dr Charles Stanley. You have certainly molded and shaped my life through his words of wisdom.
Lord Jesus, You have been particularly faithful to my wife and I. Thank You Lord, for giving us each other. Monica and I are a great team and we look forward to doing great things for the Glory of Your Kingdom together. Thank You for being right in the midst of my marriage all the time. We are a cord of three strands. You are our center cord, Lord. Our lives are wrapped around You.
Father, I just thank You for loving us and caring for us enough to send Jesus to prepare the path of our salvation. Lord, the only petition I have is that You bless me to know You better. That You reveal Your Truth to me in my studies quickly, Lord. And Lord that You use me in a mighty way to instruct, encourage and inspire others. I love You, Lord.
And in Jesus' Precious Name I Pray, AMEN.
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