Friday, April 27, 2007

Another New Study

OK... I'm famous for starting studies and then not completing them.

I started an independent study of Proverbs earlier this year and I'm still on Proverbs Seven or Eight. I started to do a study of the Lord's Prayer with my Sunday School Class a few months ago and only made it through the first week. In the past five years I've started the Forty Day of Purpose study several times and only made it as far as day 25. Here recently I started a men's group study with our church about the Character of the Man God Uses and got bogged down at the end of the first week. There have been other studies Like 'When Godly People do Ungodly Things'., and a Beth Moore Study of the book of Daniel... Not to mention my plan to read the bible cover to cover at least once every year...


Sigh... These are all worthwhile studies and projects. I get started on them and then life seems to get in the way. I'll have an interruption here, an emergency there. Someone will get sick or hurt (including me...). We'll have company over. There's a myriad of excuses and reasons for me to get off track.

But I was just thinking this morning, what would happen if God took me out today...? What would happen if I had to give an account for my life and how I spent my time...? What if there were a written or oral test on what I knew about the Bible that determined my rank or even my entrance into heaven...?

All my excuses for not completing those above mentioned studies are going to sound very lame to God.

Here's God's Perspective... He suffered and died on the cross for me. He sent Kings, prophets, and apostles before and after His time on earth to help prepare the way. I live in a time and era where there is more information known about Jesus, heaven, hell, the bible, than ever before because of great men and women of faith who have come before me. God would remind me that he gave me my beautiful wife who's life has been totally transformed because she completes these studies. God would remind me that he sent Glenn to inspire me, and Steve to motivate and disciple me. And what did I do...? I dropped the ball to put it in sports terms. I double faulted to put it in tennis terms.

I think if I was taken away today I would be judged very harshly for wasting so much time and for not knowing more than I know. I would be judged harshly for not being disciplined and completing all those studies. I would be judged harshly for not having my priorities in order.

I can only conclude that God would not be happy with me or my spiritual life. He would look at this prayer journal and say... HA...! I think God would tell me that I was not focused enough.

Maybe I am being a little hard on myself, but then again maybe not. The road that leads to heaven is a narrow road. The point is I know I can do better. I can give God MORE of my time. And it can be more QUALITY time than I've been giving Him previously.

Let me just say right here that of all the studies I previously mentioned WILL be completed. (Lord Willing...)

AND....

Believe it or not, I have started a new study. It's about improving communication skills. I'm doing this one with Monica and Connor. So far it's emphasized scriptures that describe the power and sharpness of the tongue. It's been exploring how the tongue can be used to edify and/or tear down. More on this study later.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I know that for me to accomplish anything I need to surrender to You. And I need to surrender daily. I need to surrender moment by moment. It's when I try to do things MY way under My own power, I fail miserably and am sorely disappointed.

I don't want to find myself giving an account to You for all these studies I never completed. I want to complete them and grow in You and be the most effective witness for Your Kingdom that I can be.

I tell You every day how much I love you Lord, and I do... But I know my actions and life style do not always reflect my words. Forgive me Father. Give me Grace and Mercy.

Father God, I give this day to You. Everything I do and say today will be done and said in Your Name for Your Glory.

Lord I ask a special blessing on my precious wife, Monica and I thank You and praise You for her presence in and influence on my life. She is a great help mate to me and I love and cherish her. I ask special blessings on Connor and Elijah as well. I consider them also to be precious gifts entrusted by You.

Father God today I also want to lift up my business partner, Tony. I recognize a great opportunity to witness my relationship with You before Tony. I pray that I make the most of this opportunity.

Lord Jesus, Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I love You Lord. And I pray these things in the power of the blood that was shed for me.

Amen.

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Pray First. Ask Questions Later

Have You ever heard the phrase '...all we can do now is pray...' It's usually said after someone has done everything they know to do to effect a certain result in a given situation. It's a phrase that is many times uttered when a situation looks hopeless. How sad that for many people prayer is the last option on the check list, a last resort.

I wonder how God feels about that...? Does it hurt his feelings...? Probably. Is he happy when a person finally comes to their senses and enlists HIS aid...? Most definitely.

Me...? I'm a paradox. I pray alot. I usually pray as a FIRST resort, not last. But, then I go out and still try to do things under my own power. And where does that get me...? NOWHERE. And what does that get me...? NOTHING.

I'm at my physical limit right now. I'm exhausted all the time. My body is broken down. I'm not meeting deadlines or getting enough things accomplished, I'm a mess.

I'm praying about it. But I'm still on a downward spiral. I know something's not right. I don't think my prayers are making it past the ceiling because of one thing: SIN.

And I think it's the sin of PRIDE. I think I can do it all on my own. Although I pray about it, there must be a disconnect somewhere because I'm definitely not getting any results.

So that leads me to the next question.... Am I in God's will for my life...? Am focusing my time and effort where I need to be...? -I think so...

My wife's got a good idea. She's being still. God doesn't always shout at You. Many times he uses a sill, soft voice. And if you're not still and quiet yourself, you won't hear it. I need to slow down more. 'shrink my court' again. I need to get caught up and stay ahead of the game.

Yes, now there's a plan. And God has got to be at the top of my page, not the bottom.


Dear Heavenly Father, I need some help with my direction. I've got to cut out some activity and get on track. I'm falling apart here. I really need You. I mean REALLY...!

Help me, Lord. Help me rid myself of this stubborn-ness and pride. I really am NOTHING without YOU. Lord I put You at the beginning of the day. You are my compass.

I know You have a perfect plan for my life. I want to be in Your will, Lord. I'm trusting in You. I'm loving You with all my heart mind, soul, and strength. And I give You the credit and Glory for every good and perfect gift that comes my way.

Lord I rest in You. And I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Missed a few days...

Wow, my last post was on the nineteenth... I suppose I've been busier than I thought. Well, what else is new...?

Right now I'm engaged in a race against time with several time sensitive deadlines. Sigh... But for the next hour I'm retreating to my 'quiet place' for a little 'one on one' with my LORD and Savior.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, You have proven Yourself time and time again to generation after generation. So why does it seem that our world right now resembles a modern day Babylon...? Why is Islam the world's fastest growing religion...? Why do non believers so far out weigh Believers?

I think one reason is that many so called 'Believers' (myself included) are not doing what they ought to be doing: Living a life that looks different from the world. We are called to be holy. -A Royal Priesthood. Separate and set apart.

My life does not resemble that of a Royal Priest. My life is a rat race just like the non-believers all around me. So how can a make a difference?

Lord, You know my intentions, and You know my heart. But many times I loose my focus and get caught up in busyness that just doesn't make that big a difference to the Kingdom. The busyness and constant distraction of the world is so draining.

It's only when I retreat to this quiet place where I am right now that I can stop, think, and rest. I can re-evaluate things. I can re-charge my batteries. And on days like today with the demands of the world crashing down on me it seems like I don't have time to spend an hour in solitude. But I know that I can't afford not to...!

Lord I love You. Today I give my life to You.(again) Help me to straighten up. Help me to re prioritize my life. Help me to the leader that You have called me to be. Lord I need to be a more effective minister to my wife and family. Father I know I can do nothing under my own power.

That's my big problem. I keep trying it all myself. I am nothing apart from you...! I'm pressing in to You, Lord. Hold me close.

And Lord, this morning I especially lift up my dear friend in Christ, Bruce. Brother Bruce shares my sentiment, Lord. Thank You for his witness and encouragement. Bless Bruce and his sweet family Lord. They are standing strong in You.

Father God, I pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Brevity

Brevity is the ability to say much with few words. -I'm working on that. -The art of being 'Brief'. I don't think God likes long prayers that 'sound' good. He wants us to be authentic. He wants true sentiment. He wants feelings from the heart.

I've got way too much 'stuff' going on today. Too many responsibilities to fulfill. But the most important responsibility I have is to take care of my family. And I will remain focused on that singleness of purpose.

Elijah has been very ill the past two days. Now Monica is very ill. -I'm hanging on by a thread... Today I'm just going to try to honor God by being in the moment and giving my 'all' for His Glory. -My Utmost for His Highest...!

To be succinct, no matter what happens or how much adversity I face today, I'm going to honor my Lord and Savior.

Dear Father God,

Lord I cry out to You this morning: Heal my Family. There's nothing worse than seeing a loved one suffer. Father God I pray for Your Divine healing. Bless Monica and Elijah with Your gentle touch, My King. And Lord I pray that you guard mine and Connor's health. Bless us to stay well and be able to care and minister to those who are sick.

Lord, there's so much on my heart. But You know Me, Lord. You know my thoughts and feelings. You know my heart. Lord while my main concern is caring for those whom You have entrusted me, I can't help but weep for the families of the victims of the Virginia Tech tragedy.

I don't know what to think about that. It's a sad state of affairs and another sign of the times that this world is spiraling out of control.

What this world needs is a savior. What this world needs is YOU.

I love you You Lord Jesus. And I pray these things in Your precious holy name, Amen.

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Prayer for Elijah and Monica

Poor little Elijah has been very sick the last 36 hours. Although he's finally doing better, his Mommy is starting to get sick now, too. Please join me in lifting them up today. I'm barely hanging in there myself because since my family has been sick I haven't had much rest or sleep myself and now I'm really slipping behind in my work...


Dear Heavenly Father, I just ask for grace today to carry on. I know that You won't give me more than I can handle. I rest on You promise to never leave or forsake me. Thank You Father for my many blessings.

I love You Lord and give this day to You, for Your Glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Monday, April 16, 2007

Fear Of God

Well, here I am resuming my study of the character of the man god uses. Somehow I've managed to spend over two weeks on three days of study. To say that I've been side tracked is a great understatement. I am going to do my best to get caught up this week. And what that will look like is conducting at least two spiritual workouts a day for a while. That certainly won't hurt me...!

Wrapping up day three of week one is taking a look at Fear of God.

-I've never felt like I should be 'scared' of God. Indeed the discussion of 'Fear of God' starts out by stating that fear brings a sense of awe and reverence toward God. That's how I would describe it as well. I would substitute the word 'respect' for fear. Mr Blackaby does state that fear can also refer to the dread or terror of facing God's judgement.

WHOM should we REALLY fear...?

In Matt 10:28 Jesus states... 'Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the ONE who can destroy both body and soul in hell...' Here HE is referring to the fact that most men fear other men more than they fear God. It is God who s the ONE we should pay attention to!

Deuteronomy 10:12 explains what it is to fear the Lord. I have italicised each action that is explained and it's nothing we've never heard of before... In fact, it's a very familiar verse:

...And now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to (1) walk in all his ways, (2) to love him, (3) to serve the Lord your God with all your heart, (4) with all your soul, and (5) to observe the Lord's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good!...

Question/Exercise: Does the numbered list describe your approach to serving God...? Write what you would ask God to strengthen in your walk with Him...

Sam's Answer: I am quite familiar with the verse above. I would say that it definitely describes my approach to serving God. It is certainly my intention to to do all those things. However I must confess that i fall short nearly every day...! I will ask God to help me walk in his ways more. He is the ultimate role model. Jesus lived a perfect life!

***************
Exercise: Think About /Pray About:
As leaders in in our homes, churches, and workplaces, we must fear God. We should root out anything that dishonors God or would lead others astray. There can be permanent consequences if we continue to sin. The fear of God produces holiness in our lives. Ask God to do a work in your life that would create a deep sense of the fear of God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord God, You are my God. I love You. I FEAR You, Oh Lord. I respect You Oh Ancient of Days...! Lord I know that YOU are the only ONE I should truly fear. YOU are the only One who truly has power over me. Man may harm my physical body, but can never harm my soul. Not even Satan really has power over me. YOU are the only One, Lord.
Father God, my main request is help me rid myself of any thoughts or behavior that is not honoring You. Help me to be an arrow pointing to heaven. Help me to draw others closer to You. Lord Jesus, You started a work in me years ago. Father I ask that You continue that work by creating in me a deeper sense of the fear of God.
Lord, let my words and actions consistently reflect that Your spirit dwells within me. Let me be a solid, consistent witness to everyone I encounter, but especially to my family, Lord. I ask blessings for my self in this morning prayer, but I also pray a special blessing over my sweet wife and precious children.
Guard them Lord. Keep them safe. Help me to mold and shape them. Help me to lead them closer to You and to always walk in Your ways.
Thank You Dear Lord for all my blessings. I truly do love You. I give You praise this morning because You truly are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
I pray these things in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Sunday School

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I want to honor You today. Help prepare my heart for church this morning. I lift up my sweet wife as she prepares her Sunday School lesson. I lift up Pasttor Dave and his message and all the ministry leaders today.

Father God I pray that Your Holy Spirit move within FBC West Columbia today.

Lord I love You and I pray these things in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Prayer For My Day

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You my King for the weekend. I pray for my students who are competing in tournaments this weekend. Lord I lift up my lessons this weekend. Help me to be particularly encouraging today. Help me to influence others for you. I pray I give a strong, bold witness today. I want to honor You and give glory to You, Lord Jesus. I love You and I give this day to You.

And I pray these things in Jesus name, Amen.

Friday, April 13, 2007

TGIF... Thank God It's Friday...!

I try to reserve Friday as a special day of the week for counting my blessings. Certainly, it's appropriate to give thanks and praise every single day, but some time ago I was assessing my relationship with God and discovered that my communication was too 'one-way'. And that 'way' was pretty much me communicating my requests and concerns to God.

I realized that in a parent-child relationship I was some spoiled, self-centered child always asking his dad for favors or privileges. I was thinking that God's got to get sick and tired of listening to someone do nothing but ask for help all the time. Of course, I know that's not really the case. Our heavenly Father has an infinite amount of grace and patience. I mean come on, He loved us so much that HE sent HIS only son to suffer and die on the cross for us.

God created us. HE created the world. HE is the author of time and space. He knows everything about us. HE knows what's going to happen to us. HE knows the number of hairs on our head. Isn't that amazing? Our brains (mine, at least) can not even comprehend it. The one word definition for that is Omnipotent. Yes, God is all-powerful. And He is a loving, kind, caring, gentle, providing, generous, compassionate God.

HE is Jesus, My Lord AND Savior...!

***************************

Dear Heavenly Father,

I set aside today to just worship You and give You praise. I give You thanks, Lord Jesus.

I thank You first of all for this quiet, peaceful morning that I can sit in the comfort of my living room on a big comfortable couch in a climate controlled environment using some of the most advanced technology in the world to record and broadcast my thoughts and feelings. I realize I've got a better living situation than probably 98% of the rest of the world.

Many people in other parts of the world have to worry about bombs falling or enemies or invaders attacking. This is something else that I think most Americans take for granted. Also, Lord I recognize that most of the rest of the world lives in relative poverty as compared to our rich United States. And I recognize my own individual situation is a fairly exalted for an American. I have a home, a car, a career, and many, many 'extras' that a lot of other Americans do not have.

Lord, You have truly set America apart. Thank You. On behalf of my country I am truly grateful. I recognize how fortunate we are. Thank You Lord...!

Father God, I would be remiss if I did not mention how much I love my sweet wife and boys Elijah and Connor. What a blessing they are...! My wife is a strong woman of faith. She sharpens me. She inspires me. She takes care of me. Honestly, there can't be very many men out there who have a wife like mine. I am VERY grateful, Lord. I am VERY appreciative.

And what an honor and privilege it is to be able to raise up two fine young boys. Well, Connor's not so young any more, but I definitely count it an honor to be trusted with shaping the life of a young person. I think that's the most significant contribution I can make to this world.

Helping Connor and Elijah grow up to know YOU and Love YOU Lord is the really why I'm alive and why I am here right now. You have a PURPOSE for my life, and You have REVEALED it to me. -That right there is a tremendous blessing in itself.
Lord, I know that none of my blesings are because of anything I have done. Every good and perfect gift comes from You, my King...!

God, You are TRULY an Awesome God. I Love you. I worship You. I sing Your praises. I give this day over to You for Your glory and honor. And I pray these things in the power of the blood of HE who shed his life for me, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Morning Prayer

God has been revealing much to me lately. Oh my life is still messy and out of control, but I think Monica and I are starting to get a handle on managing our time better. The key is to prune away all activity that doesn't give glory to and honor God.

Discerning God's will in this matter is my highest priority. When You look at the life of Jesus he took lots of time off to pray. He would go away to a quiet place to pray. It is recorded that sometimes he would spend the entire night in prayer. He often prayed early in the morning.

God has been seeking me earnestly for sometime now. But I haven't been paying close enough attention. I've been busy. -What a fool I've been. I've got to get my priorities straight once and for all...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, YOU are my King. YOU are my Personal Savior. I would not be here if not for You. I am nothing without You. Why do I try to spend doing anything under my own power...? The bible says that THROUGH YOU I can do all things... The bible tells me to TRUST YOU with all my heart. The bible tells me to REST IN YOU, that your yoke is easy and your burden is light.

Who am I trying to impress here...? Man or God...? That is the question. Lord I don't care one bit what the world thinks of me. I am going to follow You and spend my time wisely in pursuit of You and Your Kingdom.

I am not going to worry. I am not going to stress. I know You will supply all my needs. You have already blessed me with a great resource in my sweet wife Monica. She is constantly reminding me what's important and helping keep me on track. She is such a blessing. If there was ever a more perfect model of a Proverbs 31 woman, I haven't met her yet...!

Father God, You have given me twenty-four hours today to honor You. Lord I pray that I do just that. Help me, Father. Help me manage my time and priorities to Your Glory. Draw me close to You. Help me to be the Godly Man that you have called me to be. Help me to lead my family, friends, co-workers, and community closer to You.

Father, I especially lift up Connor and Elijah to You. I want to be a mentor and an inspiration to them. Help me to train them up well so that they too will walk close with You and know You better than Monica or I. Thank you for the blessing of my boys.

Lord I seek You this morning. I love You, Jesus. And I pray these things in your precious, holy name. AMEN.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Getting Back on Track with THE STUDY

This happens to me all the time. I start off on fire for some study and get side tracked. Well, I was writing about self discipline the other day with regard to athletic training and I need to go ahead and apply those self-discipline techniques to my own spiritual walk.

However, before I dive back in to the study, I would like to further discuss a sort of uneasy-ness in my heart about my post yesterday.

All that 'self-discipline' talk sounds like I am advocating a person achieving mastery over one's self will through their own personal, sheer determination. (self-determination)

I do want to clear the air that if a person tries to do it completely on their own apart from God then they will most assuredly fail. We must ask the Lord Jesus Christ to come into our hearts and help us. Remember the famous words of the apostle Paul:

'...I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me...!' -Philippians 4:13

OK, that being said, let's get on with wrapping up the character qualities of a Godly man whom God uses. There are eight listed in the study. We have already focused on Holiness: t0 be set apart and separate. The next is a Pure Heart.

Pure means to be singular in substance, without any imperfections or impurities. A pure heart is committed to Christ first and foremost. '...Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God...' Matthew 5:8

Mr Blackaby also uses Psalm 24:4 to illustrate his point. He says if we want God to reveal himself to us and see HIM clearly we must approach HIM with 'clean hands and a pure heart'.

The book of Samuel also speaks of the importance of one's heart and explains that outward appearances may be deceiving, but God looks to the heart. -1 Samuel 16:7.

The next Character Trait of the Man God uses is a 'Contrite' Heart. -Contrite means to be 'humble and repentant before God. I like how Mr Blackaby describes this next part: he further describes a contrite heart as 'crushed by a sense of guilt and sin'...

Activity/Exercise/Question: According to Psalm 34:18 and Psalm 51:16-17, what results in having a broken heart over your sin or the sins of others...?

Coach Sam's Answer: When a person has a broken and contrite heart the Lord is near to them. He truly cares when are hearts are broken.

Mr Blackaby says: God can take a heart that was once hardened and rebellious and use circumstances to make it moldable and submissive. Without broken-ness we become indifferent to God and the needs of others. A proud heart exalts self and promotes independence from God. THIS IS SIN...!

Activity/Exercise/Question: What is the holy spirit saying to You right now concerning your heart...? Have you ever experienced a broken heart because of your sin or the sin of others...? Is there pride in your life that has limited what God can do with you...?

Coach Sam's Answer: Most assuredly, the Holy Spirit is convicting me right now about my heart. I have most definitely experienced a broken heart in the past resulting from my sins AND the sins of others. And Yes, as much as I would like to deny it there IS pride in my life limiting my effectiveness for use in God's Kingdom.

Focusing on Psalm 51:1-2 and 10-12 as a Personal Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I do come before You this morning with a broken, contrite heart and humbly ask forgiveness. I pray that (1) all my iniquity will be washed and cleansed away. (2) That You will create a pure heart in me. (3) That You will renew a steadfast spirit within me. Please (4) restore the joy of my salvation within me and (5) grant me a willing spirit.

Father God I love you and seek You right here, right now this very moment.

In Jesus' name, Amen.


Another Character Trait of a Godly Man is: Fear of God

Fear brings a sense of awe and reverence toward God. Biblical fear can also refer to a sense of terror or dread when facing God's judgement. Mr Blackaby cites that a lack of fear demonstrates a lack of understanding of who God is and what He is able to do.

This study is to be continued....

Monday, April 09, 2007

Core Beliefs

I'm starting out the week a bit behind on my new study: The Man God Uses. But the study has already helped me to identify some of what I call my 'core beliefs'.

For many years now I have used Matthew 22:37 as my life's mission statement.

Love the Lord Your God with all your heart, with all your mind, mind, with all your soul, and with all your strength.

I determined back in May of 2003 what that verse looked like when acted out and applied to my life and decided that I must submit every thought, word, and deed to the glory of God and lift him up in all my ways in order to Love Him with all my heart, soul, and strength.

  • Another key scripture which runs along that same sentiment is in Colossians.

    Colossians 3:23 says... What ever you do work at it with your whole heart as if working for God, not man because you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. Indeed, It is the Lord Christ whom you are serving...'

    Think about that. We should do EVERYTHING we do as if we are doing it for the LORD. Do you want to give God anything less than your personal best? Would you try to short change or cheat your creator...? The maker of the universe...? No, of course not. That's absurd.

    Now, while applying those verses to my life, I found that they have greatly influenced my coaching style.

    Before I really knew the Lord I could only draw upon my own personal tennis experience as a basis for my coaching. My self esteem back them was very closely related to my win-loss record, and my coaching style followed that mind set. -I placed the highest priority on winning. Thank God I've learned to move beyond that concept.

    Of course everyone probably prefers winning over losing. Yet there can be only one winner in every contest. That means that by the end of a tennis competition with sixty-four players that sixty-three will end up as 'losers'. The fact is, a vast majority of the participants of any contest are going to 'lose'.

    Now, while I don't condone being complacent with losing, the mindset I try develop in my students is:

    It is difficult, if not impossible to control winning and losing. We simply can't control how good our opponent is. But there are many things we can control. And if we control those things then we are probably going to be successful more times than not.
  • We can control our own effort.
  • We can control our own desire.
  • We can control our practice habits and fitness.
  • We can control our attitude toward points won and lost.
  • We can control our nutrition and hydration.
  • We can control our strategy and tactics.
  • We can control our rest regimen.

There are probably more things we can control but this is a good list to start with...

When we control the things associated with our self, that's called PERSONAL DISCIPLINE.

As players, we can do that. We can control ourselves. As a coach, I can coach a player to that mindset. I can't give them the desire. But I can coach to motivate, foster, and encourage that attitude and rationalization.

I try to teach that what we can't control is a scenario where although we might hit our best approach shot deep to his backhand corner and follow it in for the put-away volley, someone like Roger Federer is still going to blast a passing shot by us and win the point. We can't control our opponents,

I can use my core beliefs about competition and coping with winning and losing to teach life skills that will cary over into business ethics and practice, spousal and family relationships, solving problems, and most importantly: developing a personal relationship with God.

My Coaching is a ministry that I use to glorify God and lead others to Christ.

Sunday, April 08, 2007

Easter Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord today is the day we celebrate Your Glorious Resurrection. Praise You Lord Jesus...! I love You my King. Father God I pray for peace today. I pray Your name be lifted up all over the world.

I pray for Pastor Dave and his message today. I pray for our church leadership and the body of believers at First Baptist West Columbia. I pray especially for those who are discouraged today.

Lord Jesus thank You for my dear wife and precious family. I love them very much. I have truly been blessed abundantly and I give You the praise and glory and honor forever and ever,

Amen.

Friday, April 06, 2007

Still Focusing on Godly Qualities...

Over the course of this weekend I need to complete the remainder days three, four, and five of the study.

I have been thinking about the eight qualities of Good Character that are described by Christian author Henry Blackaby. The first quality Mr Blackaby discusses is 'Holiness'.

We know that Holiness means to be set apart and separate.

Isaiah 35.8 says:

...And a highway will be there and it will be called the way of holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that way; the wicked fools will not go about on it....

Let's try to figure out that statement. We know that a highway is a path of transportation that allows travellers to get to the end of their journey. I'm assuming that the travellers are trying to get from here (our lives on earth), to heaven.

Now, this highway has a name. It's called the 'way' of holiness. What's a 'way'...? I think in this statement it means a direction or path.

So let's paraphrase the first part of that scripture to see if the meaning becomes more clear.

...And the means to get travellers to their destination ( heaven) will be there and it will be called the path of being set apart, or separate....

Now it makes a little more sense to me.

But that verses goes on further to say that the Unclean will not journey on that highway. Obviously, the 'Unclean' are those who are of the world and not set apart to be holy. It goes on to refer those of the world as 'wicked fools'.

Those who are 'Unclean' are also 'Wicked Fools'. They are not set apart from the world. They ARE the world.

I like how Henry Blackaby explains this verse from Isaiah.

He says: God desires that your life and mine be that highway, the road over which others are drawn to Christ, the road which may bring revival to our land. But he says that none of that will happen unless we take our holiness seriously.

Mr Blackaby follows with this closing statement regarding holiness: It is spiritually impossible to have a heart in one condition but produce fruit of an opposite condition. The condition of your heart will affect your actions, and your actions will affect your heart.

*************************
Questions/Exercises.... How do you perceive your life...?

Question 1: Is your life more often a highway of holiness, or a stumbling block to others...?

Coach Sam says: I'm afraid I'm a little of 'both'. I'd like to think I'm a highway of holiness to most of the people I encounter, but I know far a fact that I am a stumbling block to some.

Question 2: When people look at my life, do they most often see the difference and value Christ makes in my life, or NO DIFFERENCE or value in being a Christian...?

Coach Sam says: When people look at my life I think they most often see that I am 'different'. I hope they see Christ in me and perceive value in that. It's often difficult to tell what another person is thinking. I'm working on becoming more bold in my faith. But I believe that if I'm too aggressive that I will turn people OFF to Christ, and I definitely don't want that to happen.

I know I need to just live my life in love and provoke others to jealousy. But I definitely need the Lord's help to pull that off consistently....!


Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I do want to cultivate the eight characteristics of a Godly man. I want You to be able to use me fully for Your Kingdom Work. I know that's got to start with holiness. I want to be holy. I want to be set apart and separate from the rest of the world. Help me, Lord.

I want to honor You with every step of my day. Let my life's highway be a road that will draw others to You. Let my vine produce sweet fruit. Cleanse me. Purify me, Lord.

I can't believe all the blessings in my life. And I don't deserve them. But I do want to be worthy, of every good and perfect gift. Oh Lord I recognize that none of my success is from me. It's all from You. I am NOTHING apart from You my Savior...!

You are my Rock. You are my Strength. You are my Everything. Father God, I Love you.

I thank You for my precious family and all the opportunity You have provided for me here in West Columbia. Father I pray for all those within my sphere of influence. Lord, I pray especially for those to whom I may have been a stumbling block to in the past.

I give this day to You, my King. I will endeavor to live today to the fullest for Your Glory and I pray these things in the holy name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Thursday, April 05, 2007

This Study Must Be Having An Impact...!

This is definitely a good study. My spiritual warfare meter is on 'full -alert' right now...! I started off the day with my study and everything was going well, then yesterday afternoon I had a difficult time of it. The 'World' caught up with me and I was ambushed...!

Remember some of the characteristics of the world we were warned against...?

How about 'DESTRUCTIVE EMOTIONS...?"

Well, destructive emotions got the best of me yesterday. Yes, I was afraid that I was a little too smug in my comment about my maturing as a Christian in the past few years. Certainly, I'm farther along in my Christian walk now than I was a few years ago, but I was shown yesterday that I still have a long way to go. The Enemy definitely rendered me ineffective for God's use yesterday evening.

Without going into great detail let's just say that my patience and tolerance levels just weren't where they normally are. Anger got the best of me and I had to go off to the tennis shop last night and do some cooling down for a couple of hours.

I didn't actually complete yesterday morning's study which was quite lengthy, and today I'm further behind. But I'll get caught up on Friday and the weekend for sure.

This morning I'm just going to spend a little extra time in prayer before I head out for the morning.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Once again thank You Lord for this study we're doing at my church. I'm already being greatly impacted by it. The study of the characteristics of Holiness have shown me that not only am I not holy, I'm far from holy. Father God, help me with my emotional state. It's all over the place these days. I know that You take imperfect, incomplete, people and make them perfect and whole, shiny and new.

The battle of the mind is the most difficult battle.

I just can't make any 'head-way' without You! (pardon the pun!)

Lord I just have to give this to You. Help me Lord I pray in Your Holy name,

Amen.

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Qualities of Good Character

Today's discussion is the third installment of a study called: The Man God Uses. The authors are noted christian writers Henry and Tom Blackaby. This morning we're taking a look at the qualities of 'good character'.

Mr Blackaby opens the study session by listing eight qualities of good character:
  • Holiness
  • A Pure Heart
  • A Contrite Heart
  • Fear of God
  • Faithfulness
  • Obedience
  • Seeks and Loves the Lord
  • Servant of the Lord

What is Holiness...? What does it mean...?

Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty. The whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:3

Holiness means to be set apart and separate. The Lord God is most definitely set apart and separate. There is no other like him. We are called to be separate from the world.

Now, what is 'The World'....?

The world is everything around us that stains us and dirties our lives: sinful thoughts, destructive emotions, unclean images, impure motives, and questionable activities.

We were born IN the world, but we are commanded to NOT be OF the world.

Mr Blackaby explains that we can not make ourselves holy. We can become holy only through the power of Christ and the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Through a pure and clean life we reveal the reality of holy God in our lives.

Coach Sam's Thoughts: When I look at my life before I accepted Christ and my life now as a dedicated follower of the Lord, there is no comparison. Although It must be noted that after I accepted Christ I didn't just automatically turn into a mature christian. Honestly, once I had accepted Christ as my Savior back nearly twenty years ago, there were still numerous occasions where I was swallowed up by the world. Praise the Lord, my christian walk has been much more steady in recent years and I've been able to fight the world off lately. Still, I know I am no where near where I should be spiritually for having known the TRUTH for so long. Yet, the more I look back at my life I can honestly say that the holy spirit really has done a remarkable work in my life. And is continuing to transform me. I can already see that in just three sessions this study is already impacting me greatly.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, You are holy. You are high and lifted up. You are Glorious in all Your Splendor. Father God, You have called me to holy. You want all Your children to be separate and set apart from the ways of the world.

Lord I pray that I measure up to Your standards today. Father I want to present my life as a living testimony to the power of Your influence. Father I want to provoke the world to jealousy. I want to honor You in everything I say, do, and think. But Lord, the battle of the mind is a difficult battle to win. I have trouble keeping my thoughts as they should be.

I frequently have negative thoughts. At times I am about as far from holy as one can get. But Lord the bible says that all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God. The bible also says than NO ONE is worthy of going to dwell in heaven on their own merit.

That's why Sam Chadwell needs YOU, my King. I love you Lord and I give this day to You.

Once again I thank You for this study and pray these things in Your precious holy name, Amen.

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

A Paradox

Yesterday we discussed qualities of the character of the man god uses. Today we delve a little more into what is character and how it is developed.

The Title of today's study is a 'Paradox' What's that...? What's a Paradox...? Well, a paradox is a contradiction.

1 Corinthians 15:10 describes how our character comes into being.

'...By the grace of God I am what I am. And His grace was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them-Yet not I, but the grace of God that was in me...'

This is one of those verses that if I would miss the meaning totally unless I was using the aide of a study guide like the one I am currently using. Brother Blackaby explains this paradox, or contradiction in this manner:

Our character is developed fully by the power and grace of God. Yet, it is also a conscious decision we make to bring our mind, heart, and actions into line with God's will.

Here's another verse to consider: Philippians 2:12-13

'...Continue to work out your salvation in fear and trembling, for it is God who works within you to will and to act according to his purpose...'

Working out our Salvation is an on-going process. God dwells within us and will guide our actions, but we have to consciously decide to walk with Him and not with the world. What this is really speaking of is our integrity.

And what is integrity?

Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia describes integrity this way: Integrity comprises the personal inner sense of wholeness deriving from honesty and consistent uprightness of character.

Honesty and consistent uprightness... That's integrity. That is NOT the world. The world is NOT honest. It is NOT upright. Remember Brothers, we are called to be IN the world, but not OF it.

Hebrews 4:13 further explains why we should maintain our character of integrity:

'...Nothing in all of creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of HIM to whom we must give account...'

Brother Blackaby explains it this way... -God knows us inside out. He knows our secret thoughts, dreams, and aspirations. God watches us react to certain situations. He looks to see if we are trustworthy or faithful.

Coach Sam's Thoughts: God is all knowing, all seeing, HE's an all powerful, Omnipotent God. We can not escape HIM. -Who would want to, anyway? He created us. He loves us. He has only good plans for us if we live according to his will.

*****************************************************************

Exercises.... Read the following passages from Isaiah 59 and comment on each:


Surely the arm of the Lord is not to short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear. (Isaiah 59:1)

Coach Sam's Thoughts on Isaiah 59:1: 'There is no limitation to how far God can go to forgive sin and bring one back from rebellion and bondage. He always hears the call of the desperate. God has answered mine and my wife's prayers time and time again. He has intervened miraculously in times and situations too numerous to count. -Good is indeed Good!

But your iniquities have separated you from God, your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. (Isaiah 59:2)

Brother Blackaby Explains: Our iniquities and sins have separated us from God. Separation from God results in God hiding his face from us and not being able to hear us.

For your hands are stained with blood, your fingers with guilt. Your lips have spoken lies, and your tongue mutters wicked things. (Isaiah 59:3)

Question: Do You believe that each sin has equal impact on your relationship with God...?

Coach Sam's Answer: Yes. For the most part, ANY sin separates us from God. For instance, whether it's stealing something valued at $2.50 or $250. Stealing is stealing. And it's a reflection of our character and integrity. Our study shows us that God can not and will not use a man who does not have integrity.

No one calls for justice; no one pleads his case with integrity. they rely on empty arguments and speak lies; they conceive trouble and give birth to evil. (Isaiah 59:4)

Not doing the right thing is as wrong as doing the wrong thing. Do you agree or disagree?

Coach Sam's Answer: I agree with that statement. The right thing is to do the right thing. To NOT do the right thing is wrong. It's a sin. Should we allow evil to flourish if it's within our power to avert evil...? I was placed in that exact situation recently. Sadly, I feel that I did the wrong thing. I believe I may have allowed an injustice to take place by not stepping in and intervening.

Brother Blackaby Explains: God is a mighty God who hears and saves us. But our sins separate us from god, and as a result, our relationship with Him is not what it should be. All sins equally separate us from God. -sins of doing wrong and sins of not doing right. Not calling fr justice is equal to giving birth to evil.


dear heavenly Father,

Wow, what a great study to day. Thank you again Lord for bringing me such a wonderful study to open my eyes and ears to what You want me to see and hear. Lord, I learned much about how sin effects my relationship with You. Lord, that explains why at various times in my life I have felt You draw away from me. And all those times I undoubtedly deserved it.

I am now acutely aware about how sin effects my walk with You and reduces my ability effectiveness to be be used for Kingdom work. Lord my heart cries out for forgiveness.

Father God, according to Isaiah 59:1, I know that I am always within Your reach and You will always hear me if my heart is in the right place.

Lord, I love you. I need you. I offer those day to you, my King. I love and cherish You, Lord. I have nothing, and I am nothing apart from You. I fall forward on my face at the foot of Your cross, my Lord. I humbly ask forgiveness for my sins, and I will walk with you forever more.

Lord I lift up my precious wife and family to you today. I pray sweet blessings upon them.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen.

Monday, April 02, 2007

The Man God Uses

Today I have a praise report. Our church had a men's breakfast yesterday and there were approximately 16 men in attendance. Brother Bob Coburn announced the start of a new men' s bible study, and Pastor Dave gave a very compelling mini sermon. It was a very good event. I hope we have more opportunities for fellowship like that one.

This evening Brother Bob kicks off his new bible study. It's called 'The Man God Uses', and it's written by Henry Blackaby, a noted Christian author. Because of my work schedule I won't be able to attend many of the Monday evening group studies, but I do plan to follow along with an in dependant study of my own.

First off, without even cracking open the book, I have to say that I am drawn to this study simply because of it's title. -I want to be a man God uses...!

My routine time table for this study will be late night and early morning. Typically I'll read through the days lesson the evening before I go to bed. I'll pray about the lesson, then literally 'sleep on it'. Then I'll awaken the next day, pray about it again, and dive into the study first thing before I do any other project for my day.

Since I want my relationship with God to be my number one priority above all other things I feel it is important to start my day each and every day with quiet time with HIM. God is the Creator of the Universe. HE is the Author of all things. HE secured my eternal salvation by sacrificing HIS beloved son on a cross for my Sins.

I want to know HIM more and I definitely want to be the man HE uses in HIS Kingdom plans.

One of the great men of the bible and biblical authors was David, son of Jesse. (He's also the David who slew Goliath)

David was the author of most of Psalms in the bible. In Psalm 15 he wrote about the 'Character' of the man God uses.

In verse 1 David poses the question of WHO may have a relationship with God and live with HIM for ever...? Verses 2-5 describes the characteristics of that person.

Verse 2 says:
This man walks uprightly, works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.

Verse 3 says:
This man does not backbite or say bad things about his neighbor.

Verse 4 says:
This man despises vile, evil men and honors other men like himself who walk with the Lord and reverence God.

Verse 5 says:
This man is wise with money. He does not lend money and expect payment back, nor does he accept bribes.

The psalm concludes by saying that the man who has all the above mentioned characteristics will dwell in the house of the Lord forever and will not be shaken or moved.

David had all these characteristics. God referred to him as a 'Man after God's own heart'.

Author Henry Blackaby says:

'...The development of a strong Christian character is the development of a man after God's own heart...Character is who you are when no one is looking and what you stand for when someone IS looking...Strong Christian character is both the result of human effort and divine intervention....It is the work of God as you relate to Him in love...Strong Christian character is the result of your heart's desires to obey God...

Exercise: Think About/Pray About... -Two people in my life who show consistency between their actions and their inner convictions.

The first person who comes to my mind as a Godly role model is my spiritual mentor Steve Clark. Steve is currently finishing up as student at Dallas Theological Seminary. Back in 2003 He spent the entire year disciplining me on growing my faith and helping me improve my personal relationship with God. He showed me exactly what constitutes the characteristics of a Godly man by being a godly man to me day in and day out. If there were ever a man that God has used in my life, it's Steve.

The second person in my life who shows consistency between his actions and his inner convictions is Dr Charles Stanley. Although I have never met Dr Stanley personally I do feel I now him from listening to hundreds of his radio and television sermons over the years. He has touched my heart, informed me, and inspired me like no other man has ever done.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You Lord for this study. I pray that it touches the hearts of many men at FBC West Columbia. I pray that lives are drastically changed, Lord.

Thank You for Brother Bob Coburn, his leadership, and for the strong Christian presence he projects in our church. He is a man we can all look up to. I am very grateful for Brother Bob. Father God, I pray You bless Brother Bob an all the men under his discipleship. Bless their meeting this evening, Lord.

Of course, thank You for other great men of faith like Steven Clark and Dr Charles Stanley. And thank you Lord for Pastor Dave and what he stands for. I lift him up to you today as well.

Lord I love You. It is my heart's desire to serve You and honor You with my life. Father God, I have such a good life, and I know that I do not deserve all these blessings. Thank You for providing me with an awesome wife and precious family. Thank You for a fulfilling career. And thank You for the opportunity to serve You right here in West Columbia, Texas.

Lord Jesus, most of all thank You for the promise of eternal salvation made possible by Your supreme sacrifice. I pray these things in Jesus' Name,

Amen.
'

Sunday, April 01, 2007

Lifting Up My Church

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, this morning First Baptist Church West Columbia is foremost on my mind... I want to lift up Pastor Dave and his message this morning. I Pray for Your presence at the men's breakfast this morning. Father I would ask that You change the hearts of the men at my church, (including my heart, Lord). Make us more passionate to serve You and each other, Lord.

I'm right in the middle of deciding to stay and keep trying to get involved and effect change in the church or just moving on, seeking Your will elsewhere. I'm sensing things are not well with our church spiritually, Lord. And I don't know whether to stay and try to make things better, or move on and find something better for my family.

My patience is wearing thin. I need encouragement. So I look to You, Father. You are the Great Encourager. You told us never to worry. You told us to rest in You. You said You had great plans for us.

Lord I was thinking last night how many times in the past You have come through for me personally and also for my family. You have always provided for our needs. I know You won't stop now. So I do rest in You today. I do hold You to Your promise of never forsaking us.

Lord You are my God. You are the God of my family. We will trust in You. Thank You, my King. I love You and I give this day to You. And I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.