Coach Sam's Prayer Journal

The Blood of Jesus: There is POWER in the BLOOD.

2012-01-23T03:00:00.000-06:00

We are frail, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Forged in the fires of human passion, choking on the fumes of selfish rage. And with these our hells and our heavens so few inches apart: We must be awfully small, and not as strong as we think we are... ~Rich Mullins

These lyrics resonate with me. They say so much, and so simply. Oh there are times when I think I am strong, but the TRUTH is I am NOTHING without my SAVIOR.

Pastor Dwight Edwards really put things into perspective for me with his sermon this morning. He said that we don't need more personal development, we need a 'personal substitute'. We need Jesus Christ, period.

Pastor Edwards went on to present this scenario: Suppose when we die God says to us: Explain to me why I should let you in to heaven. How will you or I answer that question...?

Our mindset should NOT be that we are saved because WE asked and accepted Jesus Christ into our hearts. We are NOT saved because of anything WE personally did. WE are saved because HE DIED for us.

We are Justified through Jesus' Blood Alone, not our own works. Jesus' Blood was substituted for my own death, and yours.

To be continued....

Dividing the Light from the Darkness: We Are Called Out..!

2012-01-05T08:04:00.001-06:00

"And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness."—Genesis 1:4.

Our Churches should by discipline divide the light from the darkness, and we should by our distinct separation from the world do the same. In judgment, in action, in hearing, in teaching, in association, we must discern between the precious and the vile, and maintain the great distinction which the Lord made upon the world's first day. ~Charles Spurgeon

This description by Spurgeon does NOT describe an abundance of the churches in the world today. Sadly, the church today, by association with the world, looks EXACTLY like the world. Most churches have become 'businesses' of busyness, not holy places. In its efforts to reach the lost and not 'offend' the world, the church has compromised and corrupted itself.

Friends, we were born in the world, but we must not become OF it...! Seek the old paths...

Jeremiah 6:16-21...

16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see , and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said , We will not walk therein. 17 Also I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said , We will not hearken . 18 Therefore hear , ye nations, and know , O congregation, what is among them. 19 Hear , O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it. 20 To what purpose cometh there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet unto me. 21 Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will lay stumbling blocks before this people, and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbor and his friend shall perish .

Heavenly Father,

Thank YOU for your Holy, Inspired WORD. Father God, today I am praying for discernment and wisdom. Breathe on me, Lord. Help me to find the ancient paths and walk uprightly in them. Help me to hearken to the sound of Your trumpet. Lay not stumbling blocks in my path, oh Lord. Help me to lead my family and those within my sphere of influence toward You.

Lord, grant me grace when interacting in the world. Help me to be salt and light in this dark place during this dark season. Lord Jesus, I pray blessings on this day. I pray blessings on my sweet precious family. Thank You for another opportunity to serve You. I love You.

In Jesus' Name I Pray,

Amen

Happy Birthday, Jesus...

2011-12-24T14:59:00.000-06:00

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governing Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." (Luke 2:1-7)

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from everlasting. (Micah 5:2)

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:8-11)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

This truly is the MOST wonderful time of the YEAR...!

Merry Christmas and God Bless us, everyone...!

~Coach Sam, Monica, and Elijah Chadwell

Got Obedience?

2011-10-10T07:45:00.000-05:00

Oswald Chambers (1874-1917)

Oswald Chambers is one of my favorite authors/preachers. I have read his devotional: My Utmost for His Highest for over twenty years. I read that he was greatly influenced by Charles Spurgeon who is another one of my favorite author / preachers.

Today's devotional really convicted me. And what is particularly noteworthy is that over the years I can recall this particular devotional (October 10) as one that sort of grabs me by both shoulders and gives me a good shake.

The main point of Chamber's devotional today is that God will never reveal more truth about Himself until you obey what you know already.

Friends, If you have been in a 'spiritual rut' lately, I challenge you to examine yourself closely. Is there a shred of disobedience in your life...? If so, I urge you to repentance...!

It is all a matter of the heart. Pray for God to change your heart and He will...!

Heavenly Father, Lord thank You for the timeless advice of your servant: Oswald Chambers. Thank You that the work You did through Him over 100 years ago is still impacting society today. Father God I pray it would impact MORE of society TODAY.

Lord, I stand convicted, AGAIN and AGAIN. Every year when I read today's devotional I have a 'defining' moment. Help me to be more obedient. Help me to be more bold for YOU Father I fall short every single day but You lift me up time and time again. Thank You for the work You have already done in my heart, and PLEASE CONTINUE to transfom me.

PRAISE YOU, JESUS.

And it's in Your Precious Name I pray: JESUS, Amen.

Thankful Friday

2011-10-07T10:04:00.000-05:00

1 Thes 5:8.......   Give THANKS in all circumstances. For this is God's WILL for you in CHRIST JESUS...!

While I try to be constantly Thankful, I most definitely fall short of the mark pretty much on a daily basis.   On Fridays I like to take a few moments of reflection and count some of the blessings for which I am VERY GRATEFUL for. The following is not a complete list but is a good starting place.

I am grateful for my Precious Family...!

I am grateful for God's Provisions for my family...! We have a roof over our heads and food in our pantry!

I am grateful for a Purpose...!   As a Christian I am called to be salt and light to a dark world!

I am grateful for the Challenges and Trials in my Life...!   Struggles sharpen and strengthen us. They draw us closer to God...!

I am grateful for a Renewed Spirit to be in The Word and spend Quiet Time with my Lord...!   God is opening my eyes and showing me things every single day! Praise Him...!

And I am MOST GRATEFUL for God's Son, JESUS, who died for my sins and made it possible for me to have Everlasting Life...!

Father God,

Thank You for these wondrous blessings that I do not deserve...! You are such a graceful and merciful God...! I love You, Lord. I pray blessings on my precious family today and and ask You to help me be a good steward of my blessings.   I love You, Lord and pray these things in Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Thought Life: The road to sin starts in your mind.

2011-10-05T11:40:00.001-05:00

I sat down this morning and prayed for what to pray about this morning... Does that sound crazy...? I do it all the time.   This morning God spoke an immediate answer: Thought Life

I did a quick Internet search for 'scripture verses about thought life' and found this link from David Britton.

I also did a search for 'fiery darts' and found this excellent commentary from David Patterson.

My thought life is definitely something I struggle with. I cover myself in prayer constantly and recite scripture verses like Philippians 4:8 and Proverbs 4:23.

I also pray over Elijah, Connor and Monica's thought lives.

I believe that the thought life of a Christian Believer is the battlefield of an ongoing, fierce spiritual battle between the forces of Good and Evil.   We must constantly be on guard against the enemy and his firey darts. The bible says Satan stalks about like a hungry lion seeking to kill, steal, and destroy...! Don't give the enemy a foothold in your heart and mind by entertaining unwholesome thoughts.

The road to SIN starts in YOUR MIND...!

Heavenly Father, I lift up my thought life to You today, Lord.   Guard my heart and keep my thoughts pure and holy. I pray a layer of protection over the hearts of family: Elijah, Connor, and Monica too, Lord.

Bless us Lord. Draw us close to You. Give us a greater hunger and thirst for Your Righteousness. Help us to give OUR BEST for YOUR GLORY...! Allow us to be iron, salt, and light to each other and those around us.

We love YOU, Lord. And pray these things in Jesus' name, AMEN.

New Classes Starting Today!

2011-10-04T08:05:00.000-05:00

Today both Monica and I have new classes starting. Monica has Art classes and I have Tennis classes. My prayer this morning is that God will allow Monica and I to be salt and light to the generation of young people we will be engaging today...!

We are blessed beyond measure to have an opportunity to interact with so many young people. To God be the Glory...! We lift HIM up...!

Elijah...

2011-10-03T11:46:00.002-05:00

Elijah playing with toys, 2009

Lifting up my son Elijah today. Praying for his heart to be open to the Lord's leading. Praying for obedience. Praying to be the kind of parent the Lord has called me to be. Praying for the discernment about when to discipline and when to encourage.

Heavenly Father,

Help me to be be a better dad. Lord I submit to You and I lift my son Elijah up to You. Help him to have a heart for You and the things You Love. And Lord I pray that Elijah despises the things that you hate. Lord I lift up our family to You. In Jesus' name, Amen

Prayer Needed...!

2011-09-06T07:26:00.009-05:00

Praise God for the cooler 58 degree temperatures this morning at Columbia Lakes...! Honestly, It has been so hot for so long I can't remember a hotter summer than this one. I can't remember a dryer summer than this one, either.

And while my family enjoyed a peaceful, relaxing Labor Day at home, other parts of Texas were being devastated by wildfire. We stopped and prayed together as a family several times throughout the day and evening for all those effected by the out of control fires. Map

There are so many situations that need prayer right now. I could sit and compose on this prayer site all morning if I had the time.

We must also lift up sweet little Barrett Langham who has been suffering severe migraine headaches the past few days.

There are many relationship issues that need healing and restoration as well. But God is Sovereign over all. Our responsibility is to be faithful and to not lose hope during these difficult, trying times.

Father God, Lord you are Lord of All. Father God while we sometimes have a difficult time understanding why bad things happen to good people. We rest in the fact that You are Always by our side.

Father, I lift up to You all those affected by the wildfires in Texas. Lord I pray blessings on those families who have suffered loss of life and property. Father I pray for Your People to be Your hands and feet in this situation and comfort those who have suffered loss. Lord I pray for a containment of these fires. Lord I pray for rain. Father please bless and protect all the volunteer rescue workers involved.

Lord I pray for healing for Barrett. Thank You for all the friends and family who have stood vigilant throughout the Langham family crises.

Father I stand in the gap for my stepson, Connor. Please restore him to his family. Draw him close to You, Lord. Send Godly influences into his life.

Father God there are many more requests. You know them all. Thank You for being a God that is bigger than our problems. Thank You for loving us and sending Your sweet, precious son, Jesus. I love You, Lord.

And pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

2011-05-05T07:50:00.002-05:00

Let's Join Together and Pray for America TODAY...!

National Day of Prayer – May 5 The Presidential Prayer Team
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.com/

The mission of the National Day of Prayer is to mobilize prayer in America and to encourage personal repentance and righteousness in the culture.

Heavenly Father,

Oh Father God, we are a nation of sinners. But Thank you Lord for Your tender mercies that are renewed daily. I lift up this country to You today, Lord. I pray for repentance and a restoration of this great nation. Father God I Iift up the faithful who stand in the Gap daily interceding for the lost.

Lord, I pray that You would still bless America and that many would and could still be reached with the message of Christ. Father I pray for my own part in the mission of reaching lost souls.

And I pray these things in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Consume Me Lord...!

2011-04-28T07:02:00.003-05:00

I awakened this morning with these lyrics on my mind and in my heart...

My heart and my soul, I give You control, consume me from the inside out, Lord...!

Praise God... Oh Lord, let not my day be about chasing wealth. You WILL meet my needs and the needs of my family. Let my day be about pursuing others for Your Kingdom and drawing closer to You, my King...! Praise You, For Your MERCY...!

Father God I love You and I pray these things in the precious name of JESUS,,,!

Seeking God

2011-04-27T08:39:00.002-05:00

It is strange how little use we make of the spiritual blessings which God gives us, but it is stranger still how little use we make of God Himself. Though He is "our own God," we apply ourselves but little to Him, and ask but little of Him. How seldom do we ask counsel at the hands of the Lord! How often do we go about our business, without seeking His guidance! In our troubles how constantly do we strive to bear our burdens ourselves, instead of casting them upon the Lord, that He may sustain us! ~CH Spurgeon

Oh this has been my issue all my life. I have tried so many times to solve problems on my own under my own power... But Praise God, I am learning to lean on HIM now and NOT my own understanding.

My Way is the path of death and destruction.

God's way is the road to peace and life everlasting.

Heavenly Father, help me to follow You. Help me to be obedient. Give me a hunger and thirst for Your Word and for Righteousness. Father God I pray blessings on my family today. Cover and seal them in the Holy Spirit. Protect them from the world and the Enemy, Lord. My Lord and Savior, I love You my King. I run to Thee. I cling to Thee.

You are my rest. You are my strength and my Fortress. In Jesus' holy precious name I pray, AMEN.

Praise Report...

2011-04-23T08:05:00.003-05:00

Last night I enjoyed a fun family evening with Connor, Elijah, and Monica. That's right, everyone was present. We enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by my precious wife, and then watched sky angel together for several hours after that.

I honestly can not remember the last time all four of us enjoyed a peaceful family evening together... PRAISE the LORD...!

It's no coincidence that this blessing came around Easter time...

Praise God from who ALL blessings flow...

Dear Heavenly Father, Praise You Lord Jesus: Giver of All Good Things...! Lord, I take credit for nothing good in my life. Every Good and Perfect Gift comes from You...!

I love You Lord. I am not worthy of anything good yet YOU have chosen to bless me and not only that, You have blessed me ubundantly. Father, I am so sorry for my sins that nailed You to the Cross. Thank You for Your Grace and Mercy.

Lord I pray continued blessings on my house. Please continue the good work You have begun in this family. Help me to be the husband, daddy, coach, and friend that You have called me to be.

Father God, You are truly an AWESOME GOD...! I lift Your name up on High...!

And in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen...!

Too Busy to NOT Pray

2011-04-18T07:51:00.006-05:00

I just started reading the book: 'Too Busy to NOT Pray' by Bill Hybels. I will probably be posting thoughts and comments on this topic more and more the next few days and weeks to come.

Let me start with this: I think most people are too busy, period. I would categorise myself as 'too busy' most of the time. I must confess that on occasion I am so busy that I forget to pray, myself. Dr Hybels acknowledges how busy the world has become and suggests that if we are really overly busy, we can't afford not to pray.

The title of this book really caught my eye when I first bought it years ago. I have been battling 'busyness' for years and years. I would not say that I have a handle on it yet but I know that I can't conquer busyness on my own. It's only though God's Grace and Mercy that I will be victorious. We MUST Pray. We can not be too busy to pray. We must pray first thing in the morning and the last thing as we drift off to sleep at night. We need to try to be in a constant state of prayer every minute in between those times, too.

Dear Heavenly Father, Help me to be a better steward of my time. Help me to be more mindful of my prayer and thought life. Help me to be more disciplined about time spent in the WORD. Father God I pray blessings on my family, friends, and all those within my sphere of influence today. Help me to be a witness and an Ambassador of Christ. Season my speech today to speak life and truth. Let my light that comes from YOU shine in dark places. I love You, Lord. I acknowledge that every good and perfect gift comes from You and You constantly shower me with the finest gifts and blessings. Praise You Lord. Praise Your Holy Name, Jesus. And it is in Your sweet, precious, holy name I pray, Amen.

Lifting up Coaches...

2011-04-08T08:40:00.002-05:00

In my life I have been greatly impacted by coaches and teachers. Praise God that when I was a young boy, my first experience with coaches was a very positive experience. My little league baseball coaches were very Godly men and were very nurturing and encouraging. I had not even realized the impact of kind words and encouragement until a few years later in public school when I first encountered some 'really mean' coaches. The end result was that I did not continue in the sports that had mean, discouraging coaches and I gravitated to sports where the coaches did not scream angry remarks or make unkind comments to myself and my teammates.

Sadly, as the years have gone by I have probably seen far more instances of coaches who use negative reinforcement as their coaching style and I have observed the detrimental results on the young athletes these coaches impacted. The obvious, immediate result is the young athletes quit the sport, possibly never to play again. But who knows really what long term lasting effects a harsh word can have on a sensitive, impressionable young person...? I am 45 years old now but can still vividly recall some very discouraging childhood moments involving coaches and authority figures that have shaped the course of my life.

As a Christian I know that God is in control of everything. He has a perfect plan for our lives. As a Christian Coach, I recognize my duty to not only teach my sport, but point my young players to Christ. So what does that look like?

Proverbs 15:1 says a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Ephesians 4:29 says to not use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. These are two great verses for coaches.

I'd like to continue this commentary over the next few days, but want to close here by publicly forgiving those 'mean' coaches I have encountered throughout my life, especially those who discouraged me when I was a young person. God used that to make me the man I am today. Today I am also lifting up in prayer teachers, and all those who impact the life of a young person. I believe there is no greater work a man or woman can do.

Coach Sam Chadwell ~April 8, 2011

It is time to seek the Lord... Hosea 10:12

2011-04-02T00:10:00.002-05:00

This is the verse that is featured in Spurgeon's evening devotional for April 1... What an awesome reminder. Oh, our world just seems so sick and vile. Nearly everywhere I turn I see evil and lawlessness. I see immorality. I see hate and anger. It is time to seek the Lord, indeed. Come, Lord Jesus, Come...! Far to many times I try to remedy situations under my own power. It is time to seek the Lord. Tonight I am discouraged. ~ It is time to seek the Lord. I have questions with no answers. ~ It is time to seek the Lord. Our lives are like a vapor. ~ It is time to seek the Lord. Friends if you do not know HIM as your Personal Savior, It is time to seek the Lord Amen..

Feeling Blue...

2011-03-31T07:15:00.004-05:00

I have had much on my heart lately... Still thinking about all those who are struggling in Japan... We have trouble here in America but nothing life threatening like the people of Japan. My heart continues to go out to the Japanese people.

Lately, I have come across many young people on facebook who openly mock God, the bible, and every sense of moral decency. It is a sad state of affairs as I have known many of these youths since they were sweet, innocent children. To see their demise makes my heart cry out.

Yesterday was almost an overwhelming day for me. I have been in much prayer about it. I have determined to stand strong in the faith. I will just take each encounter as it comes and speak the truth in Love as Jesus would have done.

I will do everything in Love.

Apology .

2011-03-30T08:23:00.006-05:00

I just realized I have not posted here since December, 2010.... Wow... That's because facebook has really taken over my life... ~and that's NOT good.... Getting back on track RIGHT NOW...!

Dear Heavenly Father, Lord, how could I have gone this long without posting in this forum...? Father God help me to be more disciplined in this area. Help me to stay focused on You, my King. Lord I lift up my sweet precious family to you today. Please Lord, cover them in Your divine protection. Lord especially bless Connor and Elijah. Draw them close to You, my King. Help Monica and I to be the Godly parents you have called us to be. Father God, I have so many things I need to do. Help me to accomplish Your will for my life and this familiy's life. Lord please bless our quiet time and our family time. Help us to know you more. Lord, help us, help me to do everything in love, for this is Your will for my life! 1 Cor 16:14

Lord I lift up the young man I spoke to yesterday who told me he doesn't need You. I pray that he finds out that he does in fact need YOU. Lord this whole world needs you... I thank You for my numerous blessings, Lord. I praise YOU for Your son Jesus. And pray these things in Jesus' prescious name... Amen.

Struggling A Bit...

2010-12-06T07:45:00.003-06:00

I have to admit... This seems to be one of the toughest Christmases for me to get in the proper Christmas Spirit... I have had numerous distractions. My heart is not right. I need a major attitude adjustment. Praying for repentence. Praying for healing. Praying for blessings I do not deserve...

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord You know my heart. Help me to get in a right relationship with you and others whom I have a difficult time loving and getting along with. Help me to be discerning with the things I do and say.

Lord help me to honor You in every aspect of my life...

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

Rediscovering Christmas 2010

2010-12-03T04:33:00.004-06:00

My wife and I are doing a study on youversion.com called Rediscovering Christmas... It's been very good so far.

On day one we looked at Jesus' birth from the perspective of Luke's account through the eyes of Simeon and Ana at the temple where Jesus was circumcised shortly after birth.

On day two we looked at Jesus' birth through the perspective of Joseph and how he felt when the angel of the Lord appeared to him to explain how and why Mary was with child...

Today, (day 3) we are pondering the sheperds reaction to becoming witnesses to Jesus' arrival.

This study is definitely stretching me.... Good Stuff... More soon...

Psalm 55:22

2010-12-01T09:22:00.001-06:00

Thought everyone would enjoy this video today...!

Blessings...!

The Barge Family

2010-10-27T09:37:00.002-05:00

Today I lift up the Barge Family in Prayer. It is a very sad and difficult day for our community as we will be attending the funeral of our good friend and neighbor, Amy Barge. Amy was the mother of Sara and wife of Mike.

Amy left this world way too early. She was a very kind, sweet, gentle person and her memory will not be forgotten.

Heavenly Father, I pray for the Holy Spirit to bring comfort and peace to Amy's family and friends today as we gather to say good bye, recognize, and honor the life of our dear friend and sister in Christ.

Praying blessings especially on Mike and Sara this morning,

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen

Breaking the Binds of Facebook...

2010-10-26T07:43:00.000-05:00

Blogging used to be a way of life for me... Then face book came along and took my life and life-style by storm... Well, today I am going back to my first love: My Blogs. Oh, I am still going to utilize Face book, but as a means to publish my Blog Writings.

Face book is fun, but it is tedious to go back to previous posts. I like how a blog just lays out the thoughts in order of the days, weeks, months, even years.... I love to easily access the history of my thoughts.

History is important. Someone once said those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

I see that in the Bible, Big Time... The Bible is our greatest history book and our greatest resource for living. It's life's instruction book. So come to think of it, What percentage of Americans do you think cracks open the bible every day for enrichment?

I'll bet the number is staggeringly low... What percentage of those who proclaim to be Christian do you suppose crack open their bible every day...? The numbers are probably even more staggeringly low...

But how many people are on Face book EVERY DAY...? I don't know. But if face book and other social networks were 'religions' they would be the fastest growing religions in the world.

Face book IS the World. And it is a RIPE mission field.

Today I choose to be 'IN the world, but not OF IT'

Heavenly Father,

Today I repent from the many hours wasted on frivolous face book posts and games. Once again, I ask You to help me to manage my time better in pursuits that completely honor You and not spend the majority of my time fulfilling my own selfish desires. I want to live completely for You, my King.

Lord I pray for blessings on my house and on my day today. Please allow me to be a blessing to others in some way. Use me as You will. You are my Lord and Savior.

I love You.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

2010-09-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

I awakend this morning with the word 'FERVENT' on my mind. Of course James 5:16 came to mind: "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much".

I did a quick word search for 'fervent'. John Abraham Godson, of the Australian Prayer Network defines fervant this way:

The prayer that God answers is a fervent prayer. When something is fervent, it is hot and earnest. It is desperate. It is not the type of cold routine prayer that is noticed everyday in the church. It is not a prayer that is rehearsed and that has dignity. There is something about this prayer that is heart rending. Fervency is like when you are making a request that will determine your life or your death. Fervency is the heat that propels prayer. Fervency is like the fuel that makes prayer to burn.

Many of our prayers are not answered because they are cold and lukewarm. They are professional and do not come from the depths of the heart. They are simply the lips saying words that do not move God. God is moved by a heart that is aflame. God is moved by passion and fervency.

God is not moved by long Pharisaical prayers. God is not moved by "gentle man" prayers. They are superficial and at best poetic. God is moved by an all consuming plea for intervention. God is moved by cries that come from deep within the heart. Yes God is moved by his children who cry to him day and night.

After reading Godson's perspective, I am convinced there could be more 'fervancy' in my communication with God. How about you?

Obedience and Faithfulness

2010-07-28T07:02:00.000-05:00

Today's Oswald Chambers Devotional was good... http://utmost.org/god%e2%80%99s-purpose-or-mine/

He stated that although we may have a 'lofty' goal in mind for ourselves, achieving that goal might not be God's purpose for us. God's will is for us to be obedient, period. The Process, 'striving for the prize', is God's will for us... It was surprising to me to learn that our 'success' is not necessarily God's will.

Our 'obedience' is God's will.

We must be 'faithful', not successful. So don't feel like a failure if you did not come in first place. Don't feel like a failure if your plans fail.

This hits very closely to home with me because as a young man I always used to equate my win-loss record in tennis with my self-worth.

Oswald's devotional this morning is definitely worthy of at least a two day discussion. More tomorrow.

Father God,

Thank You for another day of life. Thank you for my sweet, precious son Elijah as we celebrate his fifth birthday today. Wow, what a joy and blessing it has been to have him for a son.

You are an awesome God. I am so unworthy of your kindness, generosity, mercy, and goodness. Lord You are doing a work in me and are far from being finished. Lord, by Your grace, with your enabling, I will be obedient today. I will be faithful.

Lord you keep pushing me out of my comfort zone. PRAISE YOU, JESUS for stretching me and making me into much more than I ever thought I would be. And I know you are not even close to being finished with me yet.

Thank you for the saints who have gone before us and lived lives of note. That great cloud of witnesses prove that all things do work for good for those who are called to Your purpose.

I Love You Lord. I thank you for calling me. I thank You and Praise YOU for my sweet wife who motivates me to press on. Lord I pray blessings on this house.

Father God I love you. And in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer Today..

2010-07-05T04:35:00.000-05:00

Father God...

Thank You Lord for another day to impact this world for You. I cover my precious family in prayer this morning. I especially pray a blessing over my wife for a productive and effective day. Lord Jesus I ask for blessings on my tennis camp ministry this week.

I pray for the Holy Spirit to empower me and that I present a compelling and effective witness for you, my King. Lord today is all about You and Your Glory.

Father God there are so many prayer needs out there. I stand in the gap for America today Lord. I lift up our armed forces to you, Father. I lift up our leaders. I pray for Godly influence in their lives.

Lord I pray for President Obama and his family. I pray that you will turn his heart to heaven. I pray for his wife and children. Lord if they are persuaded for the Kingdom then perhaps they will have some influence on their daddy. Father God i am believing that You are in control of it all and You have a Divine, Master- Plan...

Lord I humble myself to You and Your will for my life, whatever that may be. I am ready Lord... Send Me to be used by You.

I love You, Jesus. In Your Sweet, Precious name I pray, Amen...

Reflections Anup Khosla

2010-04-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

Today I am mourning the loss of a friend and neighbor. Anup Khosla passed away of a heart attack yesterday. I was not even aware that he had a heart condition. By all outward appearances he looked relatively fit. He was just playing at the Columbia Lakes Tennis Center recently with his son a few weeks ago. I am not nearly as fit as he was!

Anup was a Christian. Praise the Lord! He leaves behind a wife, son, and daughter. Please keep the Khosla family in your prayers.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord losing a friend and a member of our little community hits so close to home. Please Bless Anup's family with healing and comfort. Father God show me how I can impact Anup's family in this time of pain and sorrow. Help me to be your hands and feet in this situation. Lord You are Sovereign. I love You...

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen

Researching Scriptures that are Relevant to Tennis Coaching

2010-04-28T07:13:00.000-05:00

I am a professional tennis coach, and I am also a Christian. I currently coach about 75 students year round at multiple locations. I have worked with some of these students and their families for years. In fact, in some cases I am coaching second generations within the same family!

Over the years I have felt a stronger and stronger call to share my faith in Jesus Christ within the scope and framework of my coaching and networking.

I have just recently begun working on developing a camp curriculum that presents the sport of tennis but also shares the Good News of Jesus Christ. I am praying for God to reveal scriptures to me that would be relevant to sports and coaching.

My wife suggested this verse to me yesterday:

...For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8

I love that verse. It's like a 'theme verse' for a Chrstian coach. Today my prayer is to share Jesus with everyone that the Lord brings across my path. To God be the Glory...!

I am going to spend a good deal of time on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes website. I love the 'Competitor's Creed'. That will be 'standard curriculum' in my camp and lessons program for sure...!

Please be in prayer with me that the Lord will help me to develope a unique, God-honoring tennis program.

You Brother in Christ,

Coach Sam

Humility -James 4:6

2010-03-22T06:16:00.000-05:00

Today's Charles Spurgeon Lesson was a good one. The following thoughts are taken from 'Faith's Check Book'...

He giveth grace unto the humble. (James 4:6)

Humble hearts seek grace, and therefore they get it. Humble hearts yield to the sweet influences of grace, and so it is bestowed on them more and more largely. Humble hearts lie in the valleys where streams of grace are flowing, and hence they drink of them, Humble hearts are grateful for grace and give the Lord the glory of it, and hence it is consistent with His honor to give it to them. Come, dear reader, take a lowly place. Be little in thine own esteem, that the Lord may make much of thee. -CH Spurgeon

Just read that passage above a few times and let it soak in.

Now I ask, what is the OPPOSITE of 'Humility'...?

The opposite of humility is 'Pride'. Pride is ugly. Proverbs 16:5 NIV says: The Lord detests the proud of heart; be sure of this: They will NOT go unpunished.

Now think of all the people you know that you would consider 'humble'. -Are You one of them...?

Dear Heavenly Father,

I pray to be more humble. I pray for GRACE. Father God have mercy on me, a sinner. Please Lord, I pray for mercy on America. Lord give Your very small remnant another day to influence the lives of those around them.

Lord I pray that You order my steps today and every day as I sense a time is coming when our lives and life styles as we know them will no longer exist. Father God I lift up the young people who will carry on after I am gone. I especially lift up my precious sons Connor and Elijah.

Help me to especially influence their way of thinking so that You may forever be lifted up in their hearts and minds. I love You, Lord. And I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen and Amen.

How do you see your Job?

2010-03-18T07:51:00.000-05:00

Wow... It's hard to believe how long its been since I've posted here.... Well, I'm really looking to be an 'activist' from here on out so stay tuned for more insightful commentary in the days to come... sc

.............................

A friend of mine who has walked with the Lord more years than I have posted on his facebook status that he considers his job a 'Ministry First', and a paycheck second...!

That is such a great perspective. I was wondering how many readers today feel the same way. This post will definitely stir some comments. Or at the very least convict some hearts...!

Today let's stand in the Gap for America. Pray for the congressmen who will be voting on healthcare soon...! Wow, what if congressmen considered their job a 'ministry'... (some do, actually... AND we need to vote more like them in during the next election...)

Your Brother in Christ... ~ coach sam

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-26T07:49:00.000-06:00

Wow... I am Thankful for so many things... First and Foremost: I am thankful for my Lord and Savior who is in complete control of my life and this world...! Praise the Lord...!

Romans 11:36

2009-11-17T06:40:00.000-06:00

"To whom be glory for ever. Amen" —Romans 11:36.

This should be the single desire of the Christian. As a Christian, you are "of God, and through God," then live "to God." Let nothing ever set your heart beating so mightily as love to HIM. Let this ambition fire your soul; be this the foundation of every enterprise upon which you enter, and this your sustaining motive whenever your zeal would grow chill; make God your only object. -Charles Spurgeon

Coach Sam's Self Inventory: How much of my day is spent in pursuit of Excellence to the Lord...? -OUCH...! -Lots of room for improvement, here...

I especially love when Spurgeon says: ...Let this ambition fire your soul,... make GOD your ONLY object!

AMEN

New Thought for the Day Series: God's Tender Mercy

2009-11-16T08:05:00.000-06:00

I'm going to keep things short and sweet for awhile...

Today's thought for the day is something my wife Monica told me last night...

'God's tender mercies are renewed EVERY DAY...!' -Let's start today with a clean slate.

I say, AMEN...!

Here's a good article I came across when I did a web search for God's Tender Mercies...

http://davidwilkersontoday.blogspot.com/2009/05/praise-god-for-his-tender-mercies.html

The Miracle Business

2009-11-09T07:41:00.001-06:00

November 9, 2009

Is God still in the miracle business..?

Think about some miracles that have been recorded in the bible. The parting of the Red Sea, the saving of humanity and animal life on Noah’s Arc are two of my favorites from the Old Testament. The New Testament is full of signs and wonders from Jesus, Himself.

Why do you suppose the bible records these ‘wonders’…?

If you believe that the bible is the inspired word of God then you know for a fact that these events DID INDEED OCCUR. Now, the question I’d like to pose today is this:

Do you think God is STILL in the miracle business today? If so, then please cite some examples or praise reports…

My perspective is that I believe that God most definitely is still in the miracle business. The thing is that people are so accustomed to these miracles that they totally disregard that a ‘higher power’ is at work here.

Look at the AMAZING variety of plant and animal life on this planet. Is that not a miracle…? Look at the diversity of mankind and everyone with unique features, personalities, fingerprints, etc… Are those not miracles…? What about the fact that our planet is the only planet to sustain life as we know it. We’ve got this whole eco-system thing going here where pretty much every bit of life needs every other bit of life to survive, and it does. How can so many people refuse to believe in a Creator or the miracle of creation…?

Consider the complexities of the human body itself. All our organs ‘just evolved’…? Yeah, Right…! Every living organism is a walking miracle if you ask me.

But the bible speaks of, and I believe in supernatural signs and wonders, too. I’m speaking of miracle healings, and angelic visits, and other incidents that defy human logic. How about the countless miraculous life transformations that occur whenever a person really and truly accepts Jesus Christ as his or her personal savior…?

I have one of those kinds of lives. Maybe you do, too. When was the last time you gave your ‘conversion’ story...? When was the last time you simply turned a conversation to one of spiritual matters….? Who has the best shot at winning our family, friends, and neighbors to Christ? WE DO.

Friends, a life touched and changed forever by Christ is an awesome miracle and that story is worthy to be shouted from a mountain top, DAILY…!

Oh Yes, God has NEVER gotten out of the Miracle Business… It’s all perspective.

What do you think….? I’ve got more thoughts but I’m out of room today. I sure hope this topic stirs some discussion… Please be in prayer about how God wants YOU to affect those within your sphere of influence for Jesus.

Your Brother in Christ, Coach Sam

Where was God Yesterday?

2009-11-06T07:27:00.000-06:00

November 6, 2009

Prayer Request: Lifting Up the Victims, Family, and Friends of the Fort Hood Tragedy

The death toll stands at 13 and the wounded number 30. Let’s lift up the families of those who had their lives taken from them yesterday. Oh the grief they must have at this time must be horrific. Pray for swift and complete healing for those who have been injured. Pray also that the facts become known and those who were behind this tragedy are brought to justice quickly.

This incident brings up the age old question: How could God allow such a thing to happen…? First off, and I do not want to sound callous, but it is a fact that we live in a fallen, broken world. There is sin all around us. Sin has been present in the world since Adam and Eve.

I have often considered this question following a tragedy: How DOES God work? I believe that God works in so many ways that we can not even come close to imagining or identifying all of them. I’ll list and discuss a few of them and then leave the topic open for others to expound on in the discussion forum.

I believe that God is present and He works through His people. Those of us who label ourselves ‘Christians’ are supposed to be the hands and feet of Christ. We are called to ‘action’ in response to times like these. And that ‘action’ could take many forms.

I do not personally know any of those who were killed or injured yesterday. But have I ever faced the death of a loved one? Yes. Has God given me a heart of compassion for those who are hurting and suffering? Yes. And I believe that God was there amidst the shooting. He was protecting people. The death toll probably could have been worse.

I also believe one of God's reasons to allow things like this to happen are to draw people close to HIM. Yesterday’s event at Fort Hood sure put my day in perspective in a hurry. Up to that point, I was having a mediocre to ‘bad’ day. Then I received a text message from a friend asking for prayer for the victims. I immediately considered my day wasn’t going so bad, at all. My life was not at peril, and no one was shooting at me, or trying to do me harm. Did anyone else consider that?

We Americans are so blessed to be living in the peace and comfort and freedom that we are accustomed to. I think that is taken for granted far too often.

This discussion is far from over. I’d love to hear the perspectives of other prayer warriors about where was / is God in all this?. But let me close with this: THE PURPOSE OF THIS GROUP IS CLEAR: TODAY, WE ARE CALLED TO PRAY…!

Your brother in Christ, Coach Sam

Discipleship Lifestyles

2009-11-04T07:57:00.000-06:00

November 4, 2009

Still Examining the Life of a Disciple

I am in no way trying to get legalistic, here. But what does being ‘fully surrendered, and living for Jesus’ look like…? God should be leading you in this area.

Here are a few questions for self examination:

• When you awaken, is God the FIRST thing on your mind in the morning, and do you immediately have a morning prayer moment before you even get out of bed…?

• What’s your evening routine before going to bed? Do you read scripture before dosing off to sleep?

• Do you ever pray with your spouse or a friend…?

• When someone asks you to pray for them or a situation do you stop what you are doing and pray for their need right then and there…?

• Do you visibly pray in public at a restaurant in front of people you don’t even know?

• What do you pray about? Is it a real meaningful conversation with the Lord, or just a laundry list of ‘to-do’ things for the Lord…?

• What does ‘Pray Without Ceasing’ mean and look like…?

Friends, I am in no way condemning anyone. San Chadwell is not without areas in need of improvement, I assure you. My perspective is that a life that has been fully surrendered to Jesus Christ should look vastly different from the lives of rest of the world. And that difference will be made apparent in the actions of the lifestyle of the believer.

Now, if you have to force yourself do the things I mentioned above then you are living in the flesh, trying to do stuff under your own power. These actions are not to be done out of ‘obligation’. These activities should flow from our hearts because of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. If these actions aren’t a part of your normal lifestyle, don’t panic. But I do suggest that you pray for God to work on your heart and make you more in-tune with the things that please him.

We CAN and SHOULD do everything we do for the glory of God. (1 Cor 10:31). We are called to make disciples of all men. (Matt 28:19). But to make disciples of others we have to BE a disciple, first. Being a disciple means getting in touch with God as a lifestyle.

I could go on more this morning but I try to keep my messages about the same length each day for ‘easy digestion’. Once I get to 500 words I try to wrap it up. I'm a little over quota today.

I hope everyone has a great day today. It is my wish that God richly bless you in your walk with him today!

Your Brother in Christ,

Coach Sam

Timothy: The Making of a Disciple

2009-11-03T08:41:00.000-06:00

These are my notes from Pastor Greg Smith’s sermon on discipleship a few weeks ago… Pastor Greg is the Lead Pastor at First Baptist Church, Brazoria Texas.

Pastor Greg uses the term: ‘The Right Stuff’ in his description of ‘Timothy’ in the book of Acts.

Paul was about to embark on a missionary journey and decided to take Timothy along with him. Why…? Paul chose Timothy because he had the right combination of intrinsic variables to be useful to Paul’s mission.

What were those variables? What was or is the ‘Right Stuff’…?

First of all, Timothy was already a ‘Disciple’. He was a follower of the Teachings of Jesus. He was a follower because his mother and grandmother were Believers. Pastor Greg stressed the importance of having Godly parents. Hmmm… I think in my own life how I did not have Godly parents. I guess that is why I am what I consider ‘a late bloomer’ spiritually…!

Pastor Greg said a Disciple is called to do 2 things: Carry a Cross, and Carry a Yolk…!

To Carry a Cross means to sacrifice your life for the Lord. –Timothy was willing to leave his family, home, all he had to journey with Paul. He did not know if or when he would return. –That’s sacrifice…!

To Carry a Yolk means to be in service to something or someone. A ‘Yolk’ means work. –Timothy became totally committed to ‘discipleship’ as his life’s work.

Acts 16:22 speaks of Timothy’s reputation. The fact that he was well spoken of in two different churches is a testament to Timothy’s ‘Faithfulness’ to live for God. Timothy was always faithful to the cause. Faithfulness is a key ingredient to being a Disciple.

Faithfulness goes along with obedience. God can not use someone who is not faithful and obedient.

Finally, Pastor Greg brings up the topic of ‘submission’. Timothy was perfectly willing to submit his life to Jesus and do what ever it took to follow HIM. God had control of His life.

Pastor Greg explained how an F-16 Fighter Jet is completely submissive to the Pilot’s will. So we must be to God’s will. The Lord Jesus says that we have to be completely submitted to his will to soar.

Pastor Greg closed by asking if WE were submitted to God’s will…? Do WE have the RIGHT STUFF…? Do our Lives REFLECT what we PROFESS…? These are good thought provoking questions…

I welcome any discussion on these notes… Part two is coming tomorrow…

Back to Blogging...

2009-11-03T06:39:00.000-06:00

I've been away from Blogging for awhile... Most of my posts have been on face book the past few months, but I feel that it is important to keep this blog forum going as well.

I must report that God has been and is continuing to 'do a work' in me. I spent a good portion of the morning this morning doing a spiritual inventory and pretty much trying to get 'right' with God.

I really haven't spent a lot of 'quiet time' with the Lord lately and it sure felt good to get back in the routine.

God is leading me into Discipleship like never before. I can't explain it more than that. My prayer today is that I live the day 100% for Jesus all day today until I turn down the covers tonight and go to sleep...!

More soon...

Lifting Up the Family and Friends of Randy Reed

2009-10-02T06:05:00.000-05:00

A friend and neighbor passed away yesterday. He had been battling cancer for some time. I knew him well. I know his family well. They have taken numerous lessons and been active in various tennis events with me over the years. Shared experiences like watching kids grow up creates a special bond between parents and coaches. It's sort of an 'extended' family thing... Today I mourn the loss and rejoice in the life of one of my extended tennis family members, Randy Reed.

I'm grateful to Randy for leaving behind the memory of a very good tennis parent, a loving father, and devoted husband to those who remember him. Indeed, Randy was an inspiration.

Randy's passing stirs me inside. I ask myself what kind of memories and legacy will be left behind when I pass into eternity? What kind of impression will be left on family and friends? Right now I'm questioning my own mortality and taking my own life's inventory.

The sobering fact is that no one knows exactly when their life will be expected of them. We MUST act while there is still time to address the relationships in our lives.

Here's the Big One: How's your relationship with Jesus Christ?

I've been thinking about Randy and praying for he and his family for months. I'm thinking now about those he left behind. I'm especially lifting up Randy's wife and children this morning. And I praise the Lord that we all can look forward to being reunited with Randy in eternity later on.

To Cindy, Brad, and Stephanie Reed: My family loves You. We're lifting you up. May God give you grace to carry on and comfort, peace, and healing in the days ahead. The Chadwell family grieves right along with you and We're praying for an incredible out pouring of compassion from family, friends, and neighbors.

May God bless You and keep you close in his loving arms.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

More on Prayer

2009-09-21T07:14:00.000-05:00

Are You Glorifying God with that word or action? -Col 3:23

Do nothing out of selfish ambition! –Phil 2:3

These two scriptures tie together some loose ends for me about prayer.

Anything and EVERYTHING we do should be for God’s glory. HE created us to worship HIM. I think that must include our prayer life.

Couple of Questions: What are you praying about? How are you praying…? Is God going to get the Glory for answered prayer?

Friends, I feel like God spoke plainly and clearly to me this morning at 4:55 AM.

We MUST do everything we do as if we are doing it for the Lord. This includes prayer.

WE should NOT be the main focus of our own prayer. We need to pray primarily for others. And others should be praying for us. Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we should be lifting one another up. James 5:16 says pray for one another…!

This is how the body of Christ was meant to function…!

Matthew 18:20 says where two or more are gathered in my name there I am in the midst of them…

If we just pray by ourselves, and for ourselves, we are not only selfish, but we are also leave ourselves weak and vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks. Do you know what the bible says about ‘going it alone‘…? ‘…Though one can be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken…’ Ecclesiastes 4:12

The more strands in your ‘prayer cord’ then the stronger it will be to pull down principalities and strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4 says: …The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds…

I remember a conversation I had with a dear friend who was discipling me at the time. He had been working with me for about a year going through the bible and teaching me one on one. We prayed for each other a lot. And I remember distinctly one day him telling me that I needed to get away from ‘self-keeping’ and start focusing on others more in my prayer. I was completely self absorbed with trying to not sin and thinking about my own needs and concerns.

I understood what he was saying then, but I understand that concept on a whole different level now. –It only took about six or seven years…!

I’ll expound on this topic more in the future. But for now, please make sure that your motives in prayer are not selfish, and that when God does answer your prayer that it will advance the Kingdom.

Here’s another good link I came across about prayer, verses on prayer, and other prayer resources…

Have a great day in the Lord.

The Book of Jeremiah

2009-09-20T09:37:00.000-05:00

I've been reading the book of Jeremiah lately. Last night I couldn't sleep and read Jeremiah for several hours. I see many striking similarities between an unrepentant Judah and the unrepentant United States.

IT'S SCARY. -Makes me want to be in prayer more than ever for our country and the world...!

Praise Reports from Wednesday and Thursday...!

2009-09-18T07:33:00.000-05:00

Monica and I have been facing some tremendously stressful situations the past few months. We, (I, mostly) have toggled between trusting God to meet our needs and worrying about what would happen if our needs were not met.

PRAISE HIM. The Lord has been doing a mighty work in me, (us) lately.

After weeks and months of fervent prayer and examining every inch of our lives to root out the source of our problems, I really felt God telling me that the main source of our problem was my unbelief. You see, up until God’s revelation to me, I was praying from a standpoint of ‘hopefulness’ rather than a standpoint of ‘confident expectancy’.

It took me over a week to wrap my head around that concept and get my mindset in the ‘right’ place. Honestly, pretty much the moment I absolutely knew and trusted God COMPLETELY that no matter how dire the situation looked, that the Lord would meet our needs, He did in fact meet our needs and answer our prayers in an amazing, abundant fashion that only can be explained as: God Did This…!

This morning as I compose this message and put all the pieces together I am humbled to the point of tears at How Great Is Our God and how so utterly unworthy I am.

Friends, worry and anxiety GREATLY HINDER the effectiveness of our prayer life.

‘Hopeful’ prayers don’t cut it.

Yesterday afternoon God showed up BIG in our lives and made His presence known at just the right moment, just as He was supposed to, and I don’t think my prayer life will ever be the same again…!

God is Good. God is Faithful. God Does Hear and Answer Prayer…! PRAISE HIM…!

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The praise report above was for Wednesday. Then yesterday, Thursday... I had more prayer answered. Woohoo... I'm singing the praises of my Lord and Savior this morning.

I'm encouraged to stay in my 'prayer closet' all day today...!

John 14:27 Let not Your heart be troubled

2009-09-15T07:18:00.000-05:00

My scripture today comes from Charles Spurgeon's morning devotional. One of the Key verses in Spurgeon's lesson this morning is: John 14:27. Oh that verse means much to me this morning.

Dear Friends, I've been struggling with some things for some time now. Praise God He's moving me beyond my fears and worries. Yes, God is showing me quite a bit about myself right now.

Spurgeon asked these questions of men who worry and have anxiety about the future:

...What is the value of that grace which you profess to have received? Where is the dignity of that new nature which you claim to possess...?

Indeed, I ask myself these questions: Where is my faith...?

If I trust in Jesus as my Lord and Savior, why am I worried about money? Why am I worried about 'this and that', or anything at all...?

If I have truly trusted my eternal soul to the Lord, but still have anxiety over the things of this world, there is a disconnect somewhere.

And that's how I've been feeling lately: Disconnected.

Praise God the bible is filled with story after story of ordinary people trusting God, and example after example of God miraculously meeting the needs of His people. Those stories are there for a reason. To show us the nature of God and to provide evidence that God has a plan for our lives.

We can't get where we need to go because we don't know the way. We MUST put God in the driver's seat.

I'm slowly starting to get it.

Friends, if you are struggling with something. The answer is in the bible. Do you want the answer to a question? Read the bible. Resolve to read the bible from cover to cover at least once every year. That's right.

What? You've never even read the bible completely through, even once? How long have You been a Christian? Don't feel too bad, my record on reading the bible is not outstanding, I assure you. I hope this post challenges and convicts you to get in the word daily.

Devotions are good, especially to give us confirmation about things, but we should never rely ONLY on books ABOUT the bible. I implore you to go directly to THE SOURCE.

Books ABOUT the bible are a record of what God has told someone else. I'll bet God may have something SPECIFIC to say to You.

I'm praying this morning that God will give each of you reading this post a hunger and thirst for God's written word and that it will transform your life today...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I believe in You. But Father help me defeat the unbelief that creeps into my heart and mind from time to time. Lord I sense that many of my friends and family are struggling with exactly the same things. I cover them with prayer this morning, too.

Bless us Oh Lord. Give us eyes to see things as You see them. Give us hearts of compassion. Do not let our hearts grow cold toward each other. Rather, let us grow closer to each other and You in Love.

Father God I am so imperfect. Such a sinner. -So unworthy. But Lord You have saved me by Grace. I can't believe That You have saved me and are preparing a place for me right now and NOT believe You are in complete control of every single aspect of my life. Lord I do praise You for the peace that comes with understanding this concept.

I love You Lord. I praise YOU, Jesus. Lift me up, Lord. Bless my family and friends today, this very minute. And I pray these things in Your Precious, Holy Name, AMEN...!

The Day's Forecast: Difficulty

2009-09-14T09:44:00.000-05:00

I have a difficult day ahead. Need prayer support. Thanks, Prayer Warriors...

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are my source of strength. I can do all things through You, Jesus. I know You never give us more than we can handle. Father God, all the conditions are present for You to provide a great miracle. I'm resting in You, my King.

I know that the same power that conquered the grave lives in me. Praise You, Father...!

I love You Lord. I give today to You for Your glory. Lift me up, hold me up. Bless me Lord, And Bless my precious family.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer For Blessings

2009-09-12T07:08:00.001-05:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I cover my stepson Connor and his friend Jimmy in prayer as they travel to a cross country event for school competition this morning. Bless their trip, Father. I pray that they have an opportunity to share their faith today with coaches and friends, and impact others for YOU.

Lord I pray blessings over my precious wife Monica, who has not been feeling well lately. Let today be a day of rest and peace for her. Father God as always I lift up sweet little Elijah to You. Bless his heart, Lord. I pray that we raise him to the best of our ability to love like You love and to be kind and compassionate.

I ask blessings on the weather so that I am able to host my lessons today and that I may give great lessons for Your Glory, my King. I am so grateful for the opportunity to earn a living for my family and speak encouragement and life into other's lives on a daily basis.

Father God finally I ask blessings on our finances. Bless my family to be good stewards of Your provision and multiply or gifts back to the family of God.

I love you Lord. I give today to You, for Your Glory and Praise You that the Same Power that conquered the grave LIVES IN ME...!

In the power of the name of JESUS CHRIST I PRAY,

AMEN

Let's All Observe a Moment of Silence: NOT ME..!

2009-09-11T07:59:00.000-05:00

Who started a moment of silence...? What event was it first associated with...?

Call me crazy, but today it just dawned on me that 'a moment of silence' is probably a politically correct phrase for those who don't want to pray.

Otherwise, why not just have 'a moment of prayer'...? I think most Christians equate a moment of silence with a moment of prayer because that's what we do. But that's not what a moment of silence means. -I'M CERTAIN OF IT...! Duh...

A moment of silence is respectful, for sure. But it is most definitely NOT the same as a moment of prayer.

I'm offended by that phrase, now. Is that crazy...?

Whenever I am observing a moment of silence... That moment will be steeped in prayer, I assure you...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I recognize that you have been trying to get America's attention for a long time. The events of September 11, 2001 was like you taking us by our shoulders and shaking us so hard that our teeth rattled.

You've got my full attention, my King. I repent of my sins. Lord, I'm following You. I call America to do the same. I lift up America this morning to You.

Father God, I especially lift up the families of the victims of the attacks. Another anniversary of this memory has got to be particularly painful to those who lost a loved one.

Thank You God for being Sovereign through all this. I love You Lord. And I pray these things in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Hearing from God

2009-09-10T11:20:00.000-05:00

I am convinced that God is trying to get our attention all the time. The problem is that we are just too busy to hear His voice. Well anyway, I'm convinced that's MY problem.

This morning I really felt like God spoke to me the moment I opened my eyes.

PRAISE the LORD that HE would communicate with someone like me. I've been having some very rough days lately, but in spite of different situations I'm facing I really have a calm confidence that God is in control and HE WILL meet my families needs...!

What did God tell me...? Well, that's between God, my wife, and I...!

But the question that begs asking is this: Do YOU want to hear from God too...? Here's some advice:

SLOW DOWN.... All that happens when you go 90 miles an hour is that you crash...

SPEND TIME IN THE WORD... Get the WORD of GOD in YOU. This is how God speaks to people.

PRAY... Talk to God but DON'T You do all the talking...

GET REST... Our Bodies are not indestructible. God will not BLESS an insane schedule. I have come to realize that an insane schedule for me means that I'm trying to hard to do things under my own power.

Slow Down and let God be God...!

Is God in Your TOP 5...? Jeremiah 33.3

2009-09-09T06:22:00.000-05:00

My wife and I have our mobile phone service with T-Mobile. They have a feature that you can list your 'top 5' phone numbers and when you call those numbers the calls will be FREE CALLS for you. No air time will be charged to your account...! That's a pretty good deal, I think!

Hey, would you want to add God's phone number to your top 5...? I've got it down right here so you can copy it and save it.

Here, let me text it to you: P - R - A - Y - E - R

In Jeremiah 33.3 God says: Call to me and I will answer you...

Do it... IT'S A FREE CALL...!

Proverbs 27:17... Got Iron...?

2009-09-03T04:37:00.000-05:00

Before we went to bed a few short hours ago my wife and I prayed together. It was our third time to come together within a 24 hour period and pray specifically for each other's burdens and needs. As I mercifully drifted off to sleep I was reminded of a verse that was part of our wedding vows:

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work; If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV

I am so grateful to have my precious Monica by my side. We are God's gifts to each other. I awakened this morning with similar sentiments on my heart and was thinking that a good topic of discussion today would be the importance of having a prayer partner.

Do you have a specific prayer partner, someone to encourage you or hold you accountable...? I mean one other living person that you can physically be in the same room with, lay hands on, and pray together with ...? Honestly, I believe that such an intimate friendship is rare.

Proverbs 27:17 NIV says: As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

So, do you have any 'iron' in your Life...? Who 'sharpens' you...? I encourage You, Dear Friends, to 'Get Some Iron'. Don't be an island. God didn't intend for us to be solitary and alone. He created us as 'social beings'. There is strength in numbers. Two are better than one.

Psalm 119:4 Good Verse...

2009-09-02T04:22:00.000-05:00

May those who fear You rejoice when they see me for I have put my hope in Your WORD...

We can be an encouragement to others when they see us trust in the Lord and live a life totally, recklessly abandoned to Him...!

What has given me encouragement and cause to rejoice lately...?

-The Faith of My Precious Wife.

-The miracle of my sweet little boy Elijah

-Watching my stepson Connor grow in his faith.

-Young people at church reciting the books of the bible in order.

-Young people at church reciting the 10 commandments in order.

-Young people reading their bibles and memorizing scripture.

-Movies like facing the Giants and Faith like Potatos.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for any and all encouragement and inspiration that comes my way. There is so much bad happening in the world, but I can see You raising up a generation of prayer warriors and those who would live their lives counter to popular culture. Thank You for the hope of the future.

Lord I humbly pray that my life's message would not be a hindrance to some but an encouragement to many. What ever the case, I will endeavor to live my life for You.

Father God I lift up my sister Becky who is traveling today. I lift up my own house to You, Lord. Please bless the Chadwells. Bless our health and bless our finances as we seek to live lives of obedience to .Your words and will.

Lord I am learning to trust You more and more. Thank You for healing my faith. Thank You for the efforts of those Christians who have gone before me. Lord I love You. I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Praying For America

2009-09-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

Friends, America needs our prayers. Every day a little more of our liberty is taken away. Some Christians would say that we need not concern ourselves with politics. I think we are called as Christians to stand up for what we believe in. All it takes for evil to prevail is for good people to remain silent and do nothing. I am publicly taking a stand for Jesus. I am getting involved in politics by writing and phoning my congressmen and legislators. I am making crucial issues known to everyone within my sphere of influence. And Most importantly:

I'm Praying...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I stand in the Gap for America this morning. I pray a blessing over this country. Lord give us more time to repent. Father give those who really love and serve You more opportunity to influence those around us.

Father God I feel assaulted by then enemy on every front in my life right now. Help me to stand tall amidst the oppression. Help me to see the world through Your eyes. Lord Jesus guide my steps, words, and actions.

Thank You for today my King. Thank You for another breath and another opportunity to stand up for the Truth. Thank You for my precious family. Lord I do what I do for them and You.

I love you Lord. You have lifted me up from the depths.. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Where Are My Priorities..?

2009-08-31T08:08:00.000-05:00

It concerns me that sometimes in the morning when I get out of bed I'll feel compelled to check my email or face book BEFORE I dive into a devotional.

I see that as a HUGE problem. Blogging used to be my big addiction and now face book is definitely an issue for me, too. Oh, I do spend a lot of time ministering encouragement and mentoring through those venues but I should NEVER put them before time spent with God, Himself.

Here are some Lyrics from Rich Mullins song: One Thing

...Save me from those things that might distract me, please take them away and purify my heart. I don't want to lose the eternal for the things that are passing 'cause what will I have when the world is gone if it isn't for the love that goes on and on...

YOU'RE MY ONE THING....! -and the pure in heart shall see God... Matt 5:8

This is a good message. We are in the world but not of it. Got to focus on God and not be distracted by what's going on. Must keep my mission clear: Represent my Lord and Savior and let everyone see the Joy that is in me because I am saved.

Praying for a pure heart today. How can I get a pure heart...? Pray for it. And spend time in the WORD.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Help me focus in a world of distractions. Let me see things through Your eyes. Help my heart, Lord. I love You, Father . I give today to You and ask You to bless and order my steps. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.

Praise Report Friday...!

2009-08-28T06:22:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to begin a regular feature on my blog: It's Called Praise Report Friday: I'm going to begin counting my blessings every Friday. I'd like to put a new spin on TGIF -'Thank God it's Friday'...

So Yesterday, MAFA got off to a great start. Monica's Art Classes went very well. Yay... -And my tennis classes went very well, too... -Yay...! Those were two prayer requests that have been completely answered by God. Oh, God is Good!

I'm still in prayer for many special prayer needs of my friends and family. I'm still in prayer for sanity in my work schedule.

But God is really showing me how to trust in Him these days. He does always come through. My problem is that I feel I often limit his blessings by working too hard under my own power.

God is God. He created the heavens and the earth. He speaks things into existence. He is all powerful and can do anything He wants whenever He feels like it. The bible says that God has a good and perfect plan for my life. I will know the will of my Heavenly Father if I listen for His voice, Read and study His Word, and Obey His commands.

Obedience is the key. The problem is that sometimes (many times) being obedient costs us. But that's where my favorite 'life principle' kicks in: Trust God and leave all the consequences to HIM. That's what God is showing me right now...

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You Lord for loving me so much that You died on the cross for my sins. I would be nothing without You. I'm so grateful Your spirit is indwelling inside of me. Lord help me to let You be God. Help me to let go of fears and just trust and rest in Your promises...

Give me boldness and courage to stand up for You in a day and time where few are living for You. Father God I am living for You. I love You, Lord. And I give today to You, I'm following You no matter what it costs me...!

I know that taking a stand like this means that the forces of darkness will mount up an attack against me. But scripture says that if YOU are for me, who can be against me...? No weapon formed against me will prosper.... I have Your promise that I can do all things through You who give me strength. -AWESOME GOD...! -I love You, Lord.

You know my needs, Lord. I humbly lay them at Your feet. Father I continue to lift up the DiBlasi family, the Marquez family, and the Mariani family to You. Bless them Lord. Bless all their special needs of healing and deliverance.

Father God I lift up my Friend in South Africa, Werner. Thank You for the work You are doing in Him right now. Oh Lord I lift up my Brothers and Sister and all my family and Monica's family to You. Thank You for family, Lord.

Lord I lift up America to You. I call for repentance and prayer and beg You to heal our land and sway our leaders to follow You. America is on a path to self destruction. I stand in the gap in prayer this morning for my country.

Father God I do love You and pray these things in Jesus' name, AMEN.

Fiery Furnace...

2009-08-27T06:38:00.000-05:00

Things must have looked bleak to outsiders. The young men were put into the furnace and the King ordered it to be made seven times hotter than normal. The extreme temperature even killed those who were attending the furnace on the outside...

But the Lord was with them and walked with them over the glowing coals. He delivered them.

Now, that is a reward for faithfulness...!

Dr Charles Stanley always says: Trust God and leave all the consequences to HIM...

Those are good words to live by...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I love You. Thank You for showing me some things I need to attend to. I submit to You, my King. I want my life to be pleasing to You. Please keep showing me and rooting out things in my life that do not bring You Glory.

Lord I lift up my precious wife today. I lift up all the teachers and students at the MAFA school today. Bless them as they start the first day of enrichment programs for their school year.

Father God I continue to lift up the DiBlasi family. I'm believing in YOU for a miracle.

Lord I pray for the Chadwell family resources. Bless what we have to go a long way, and bless our ability to increase the harvest. Help us to be good stewards of Your Providence, my King.

Lord Jesus, I give this day to You and pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Intercession

2009-08-26T05:54:00.000-05:00

I am lifting up a dear family I have known for many years: The Ted DiBlasi family. Ted was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Ted is a good man who has a precious family that love him very much. They all love the Lord. I'm praying for peace and comfort for Ted and his family, and I'm praying for complete healing!

Is ANYTHING to difficult for the Lord...? NO...! Friends, Join me in praying for COMPLETE HEALING for Ted.

Father God, Ted's condition is a shock and surprise to many and soberly reminds us the stark reality that life is so very precious and so very fleeting.

Please bless Ted. I selfishly ask for You to allow Ted more time here on earth. Heal him, my Lord. Bless his family.

Lord Jesus I love You and Praise You. I give today to You, my King. Help me be right in the center of Your will, my King. Bless my precious family, too Lord. I am so grateful for them.

Father God I present my work situation to You. Bless me to make the right decisions related to how I earn my living. Oh Lord my Lord, please bless my family's finances.

I am not anxious. I eagerly anticipate Your Blessings, my King. I'm waiting on YOU..!

Father God thank You for everything. Thank You especially for salvation. I can be certain of my future because of what You did on Calvary.

Father God thank you for Your peace that surpasses all understanding. In Jesus' precious name I pray, AMEN.

Strength

2009-08-25T05:40:00.000-05:00

Today my prayer is for strength. I need spiritual strength. I'm facing some big decisions right now and need the Lord's wisdom and guidance.

I need physical strength as well because I am running on too many days and nights with little or no sleep.

My focus is all over the place and I need to be able to cut out distractions and fine tune my attention to make progress on and complete some projects I have in the works.

I need to focus more on my relationship with God, my prayer life, my quiet time, and time with family. These are areas that are currently under great spiritual assault from the enemy.

That's my morning spiritual assessment.

Another reason to NOT lean on one's own understanding: 1 Cor 1:19

2009-08-24T04:39:00.000-05:00

Scripture verse Proverbs 3:5 has been on my mind lately: Trust the Lord with all Your heart and lean not on your own understanding...

This morning's Spurgeon Devotional shed light on a companion verse that further explains WHY we should not lean our own understanding: 1 Corinthians 1:19... For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate...

I've got to quit trying to spend so much time contemplating things out so much. Oh that is difficult to do.

But so many bible verses just encourage us to Trust only in God... Here's a good web link for further reading on that topic: http://www.seekgod.org/bible/delightingod.html

Keep it simple. Just obey God and leave all the consequences to HIM. -That's what Dr Stanley says.

I've got to quit trying to be so 'smart'.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord thank You for speaking to me through the bible this morning. Thank You for just laying the scripture verses on my heart like You do. Thank You for the revelation of Your Word.

You are ALIVE in me, my King. You give me strength and power, Lord. Father God I don;t have to know what's coming around the corner. I just need to trust in YOU

And I do.

I love You Lord. I give today to You. I pray blessings on teachers and students going back to school today. Lord I pray blessings on my own students and classes today.

Father God I lift up my sister to You. Please bless her visit this week. Lord I lift up Arno and Judy to YOU. Bless them, Lord. Bless their health. Bless their walk with You, my King.

Lord I pray special blessings on my schedule and all my deadlines. Help me stay on time and on target.

Father God You get the thanks and honor and Glory for every good thing in my life. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

All Nighter...

2009-08-23T06:21:00.000-05:00

Wow... I slept for a few hours earlier this evening but awakend about 1 AM and have been up all morning... I've worked on my website a bit, but my thoughts keep turning to spiritual matters.

I have some deep burdens of prayer. There are people within my sphere of influence that desperately need ministering. And as I just wrote that, a scripture verse comes to mind. It's where Jesus rebukes the man for worrying about the splinter in his neighbor's eye while the man himself has a log in his own eye. Matthew 7:5

Hmmm.... I know that I'm not perfect, just a simple work in progress. Still, in my life I've already lost loved ones whom I am fairly certain died without knowing a personal saving relationship with Jesus Christ.

I can not stand to see history repeat itself. I feel a need to clear my schedule of any and all wasted, 'busy' time in order to be available for intercessory prayer and to focus on the things that are important to God...!

Hard Questions to Ask Myself...

Is God Number One in my Life...?

How much time of my day is spent engaging in activity that has nothing what so ever to do with advancing the Kingdom...?

How much do I trust God...? How do I manifest that Trust...?

Oh I have a lot of soul searching to do....

To be continued...

Dear Heavenly Father...

2009-08-21T07:11:00.000-05:00

Oh today I need to get my act together. My Precious King let me start the day just acknowledging how Great You Are and how I am so under Your Authority.

Lord I recognize my many short comings. Help me to be more patient. Help me to be slower to anger. I read somewhere that the safest place in the world to be is right in the middle of Your will for our lives. Oh that's where I want to be, Lord.

I love You my precious Savior. You have blessed me greatly. You gave Your life for me. Lord I want to return the favor by living an Extraordinary Life totally devoted to You.

Father God I'm dealing with many issues at the moment. You know what they are. I realize that the road ahead may be difficult, but I rest in You, my King. I trust in You, Lord. I pray that You help me to be more like You.

I pray blessings on my family today. Help me to be a great blessing to them. Lord You are so Good. I rest in You, my King. Thank You for being my Savior and thank You also for being the Lord of my life. I love You Jesus and pray these things in Your precious name, AMEN.

Lifting up a Local Family Suffering Loss

2009-08-20T06:45:00.000-05:00

I just read on facebook a link that one of my friends posted...

http://thefacts.com/story.lasso?ewcd=06fd204f2c390b3c

A local family in Lake Jackson was touched by the war in Afghanistan when their son was killed by a roadside bomb. He was 25 years old and was supposed to be flying home this weekend to celebrate his daughter's one year birthday. How tragic.

I don't know this family personally, but my heart grieves for their loss. I am very grateful for the men and women that serve our country.

The bible says that our lives are like a vapor. Oh how true that is... We don't know how much time we have here on earth. Stories of lives tragically cut short are very sobering.

The article didn't say if the young man killed was a Christian or not. I pray that he was. And I pray that the Holy Spirit is right there in the midst of his family right this very second dispensing comfort.

Heavenly Father,

Lord I pray blessings on the Jon Rape family this morning. Thank You for Jon and men like him who serve our country every day. Father God, I lift up Jon's family to You this morning. Bless them. Comfort them Lord in their moment of need. I pray that hearts and eyes are turned to right now, my King.

Father God I thank and praise You for my own family and another day of life to protect, provide for, and impact them. Thank You for my precious wife and children. I lift them up to You as well, Lord.

I pray traveling mercy on my sis this morning as she is traveling to Texas for a visit. I pray for rest and restoration for her during her stay.

I love You Lord. I give this day to You for Your Glory. I Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Morning of Intercession...

2009-08-18T05:00:00.000-05:00

I'm up early with one thing on my mind: INTERCESSION...

Here are some of the situations and individuals I will be praying for throughout the day:

My Stepson Connor's safe travel home from California
Ralph Marquez
FBC West Columbia Pastor Search Committee
Monica and Elijah
Robin Welborn
Teachers, students, and school administrators
My Sis
Judy and Arno
America and our elected officials

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord my requests are many. But You are God enough to handle them, and then some. I trust You Lord. And I praise You in advance for knowing my heart and already working on these things behind the scenes even as I compose the words. I praise You and thank You for a great life. -A life I don't deserve.

Thank You for Your Grace, my King. God You ARE GOOD...! You NEVER FAIL.

I pray for speedy recovery, I pray for discernment and wisdom, I pray for salvations, I pray for Your Divine WILL to be accomplished in every matter, Father.

Lord I love You. I am seeking Your face, my King. I want to honor You my King. I give this day to You, Lord. And pray these things in the holy name of JESUS CHRIST, Amen.

Questions and Answers...

2009-08-17T04:39:00.000-05:00

Here are some things going through my head this morning:

What is the last thing on my mind as I drift off to sleep at night...?

Answer: Jesus.

What is the first thing on my mind when I awaken in the middle of the night, or the morning..?

Answer: Jesus.

What is my purpose in Life...?

Answer: Obedience to Jesus, and to Worship HIM.

What is the greatest gift I can give my Children...?

Answer: Teach them to know and love Jesus.

Who am I going to lean on in times of trouble...?

Answer: Jesus.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord it's pretty clear to me that YOU ARE THE ANSWER...! I love You. I offer today up to You, for Your Glory. I pray blessings on my day and my family's day.

I thank You for another day of life to impact those around me for YOU. Father God I pray for my witness today. Let my life be a living testimony of YOU.

Today I have peace and a sense of calm that I haven't felt in a long time. I know that's all YOU, Lord. Come what may, I WILL trust You, Jesus.

Thank You For Your Lordship. Father God I pray these things in Jesus' Name, AMEN

What's My 'Spiritual Temperature'...? -HOT...!

2009-08-14T05:31:00.000-05:00

The bible says it is better to be either hot or cold, not luke warm... 'I think I'm HOT!

Here's some great sermon notes I came across as I was researching Revelation 3:15-16

http://www.letgodbetrue.com/sermons/pdf/hot-cold-or-lukewarm.pdf

My spiritual condition is literally consumed with seeking God's face!

Father God,

Thank You for firing me up for You. And thank You for sending people into my life to inspire, motivate and encourage me to stay focused on and live for You.

Help me encourage and motivate others for You, Lord. And not for my glory, but Yours, my King. Father God You have placed me in a unique situation to be able to impact a great number of people within my sphere of influence. Season my words to a most effective witness.

I love You Lord. I live to serve You.

Father I present my family to You this morning. Bless them Lord. Bless my wife to complete her art project today. Bless Elijah and Connor to have a great day of growing in You.

Lord I lift up Ralph, a good friend who is in the hospital with heart issues right now. I pray for healing for him and comfort for his sweet family.

Lord I pray for my tennis camp today. Help me to really reach the participants this morning not only with a tennis lesson but a life lesson. That's what coaching is about. That's what you've called me to.

Father God, I pray for my country this morning. Oh I weep for America this morning but pray for the small remnant to stand strong and true. Lord I pray for this country's leaders that they would turn to You.

Lord Jesus, you are the ONLY answer. Help me to carry on. Help me to be obedient. Help me to trust. I know that You will provide for Your children. So why do I have anxiety at times...? Isn't that unbelief..? I am sorry for my times of doubt. Heal me in that area Lord.

Thank You for my wife who constantly points to You and is such a blessing and encouragement to myself and those around her.

I pray and give thanks for many things this morning Jesus, but I recognize that the greatest gift of all is what You did on Calvary. Thank You. I love You. And in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Seeking God and Praising HIM

2009-08-13T04:57:00.000-05:00

I awakened this morning not with a hunger and thirst for food and water but a hunger and thirst for the WORD OF GOD.

This Verse was on my mind: Psalm 103.1..... Praise the Lord oh my soul and all that is within me...

I love that. Let everything that is within me praise the Lord...! Today I am praising God with my lips and with the words I write and post but I can honestly say that I have the Joy of the Lord in my heart and in my soul....!

HE Really is WITHIN Me...! It's a good feeling. Oh God is Good. He is Perfect and Holy.

Blessed be the Name of the Lord...!

Father God, I love You. I give You thanks and praise for every good and perfect thing in my life...! I can't explain it but I know that good things are going to happen today. I'm giving You thanks and praise for that right now, my King.

I'm giving You my heart, Lord. You gave Your life away for me and I will never be the same again. Thank You for Your Goodness. Thank You for Your Blessings. Thank You for not being fair and giving me what I deserve. Thank You for Grace and Mercy.

Thank you for the Cross. Lord i give today to You for Your Glory. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer

2009-08-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

Honestly, I've never been more 'burdened' with prayer needs and requests than now. And I don't use the worrd 'burdened' as in it's a burden to me personally, I use the term to mean a sense in my spirit, or a call from God.

I have hardly been able to sleep the past few days...

Here are some of the most urgent, pressing things I feel the need to spend time in prayer about:

#1.......... The eternal salvation of my family and friends who may not be saved. -God specifically placed these people in my path and within my sphere of influence. What am I doing with the knowledge of the Good News of Christ...?

#2.......... Abortion. Uggghhh.... America kills thousands of babies every week. Innocent blood is on my hands if I have knowledge of this atrocity and do nothing... God is not going to let this continue without severe repercussions...!

#3.......... There is much more but I'm out of time this morning... To be continued...

But let me conclude with this question....

Does anyone else feel the same quickening of their spirit regarding these issues...?

Dear Heavenly Father,

My mind is divided. I can barely focus on the daily task of living in light of the enormous prayer needs of the world and those around me. I am consumed with intercession.

Father God, calm my mind. Comfort me. Bless me Lord. Enable me to carry on. Help me to hold up the Standard. Lord I lift up my precious wife who stands with me in agreement on these issues.

I pray specifically for Monica's day today. Bless Monica to complete her art projects today.

Oh Lord I love You. Thank You for my life and the opportunity to make a difference in this world.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lots to Pray For....

2009-08-11T06:28:00.000-05:00

Wow... I have lots to pray for. This morning I'm starting with thanks and praise. For such a time as this I was placed upon the earth... I'm thanking God for the opportunity to impact those around me for HIM. I'm thanking God for a precious family. There are many, many things to be thankful for. I don't want to take one single blessing for granted.

But oh, there are so many interests to intercede for... I could literally spend the entire day in prayer. I think I will.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I love You. I place You at the very top of my day, first on my list of priorities. Lord You are the ONLY hope for this lost and perishing world. I sense that time is very, very short. Father God I am in Your service.

I'm trusting You and leaving every consequence up to You. My one request today is for You to help my focus and keep my eyes and heart turned to You.

Thank You for another day of life. I give today to You, my King. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Jury Duty Today..

2009-08-10T06:28:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends,

I have not been posting for awhile. I've sort of taken a break from blogger for awhile. but am trying to discipline myself and my time to post here more often.

Today I have Jury Duty. Can't say I'm thrilled about it. But am ready to do my civic duty. My prayer today is that I am able to impact society for Christ. I think that this morning I will have a chance to tell the world I am a Christian. I am ready for what ever God has in store for me.

Praise God for my many blessings...!

Sam

Fear God and Obey HIS Commandments

2009-08-03T05:11:00.000-05:00

Today's good word is Deuteronomy 13:4...

It is the LORD your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him. NIV

I love this verse from Deuteronomy.

-And I love one of the things that Dr Charles Stanley always says: Trust God and leave all the consequences to HIM...

Friends, I've been going through a 'spiritual winter' these past few weeks. But Praise the Lord, I'm coming out of it.

To God be the Glory...!

Every Good and Perfect gift comes from HIM...

Humbling Myself and Seeking HIM...

2009-07-13T04:09:00.000-05:00

Something snapped in me this past week. I'm laying my life down before the Lord. I'm begging Him to strip away every ounce of Pride and Selfishness in me until nothing but a humble, gentle servant remains. I'm asking God to help me approach my walk with HIM with the diligence of a world class professional athlete training for the highest prize in his or her profession.

I'm praying for a single-minded focus that is rarely seen any more in this world of busy-ness and distraction. I have NOT been the man of God the Lord has called me to be. I have NOT been the Godly Husband and Daddy my Precious Savior expects of me.

But today is a NEW day. I'm calling down Holy Spirit Power this morning...! This is not the 'old' Sam Chadwell. This is the NEW and IMPROVED Sam Chadwell.

To God be the Glory... -Now and Forever, AMEN...!

Keeping Everything In Perspective

2009-07-08T04:29:00.000-05:00

Why is man here on earth...?

We did NOT evolve from a bacteria or single celled organisms. We were created by God in his image. We are to live and grow and know HIM and develope a relationship with HIM. We are to share with friends, family, and even strangers what a relationship with Christ looks like.

We should be friends with God. HE should be our BEST Friend.

EVERYTHING we do should be a reflection of our relationship with HIM.

We were NOT created just to stay BUSY all the time. We are NOT called to MERELY EXIST...!

Friends, take a HARD and SOBER look at Your lives. Are You living Your life in honor of Jesus Christ, or are you 'just' living...?

Lord Jesus,

Thank You Lord for going to the cross and giving Your life so that I might live. I recognize and proclaim that I am NOTHING apart from YOU. My God, YOU DEFINED me. YOU breathed life into me. YOU are my KING.

I love You Lord. I am living my life for YOU. I pray blessings over my family today. I lift up all those in my life who have confided in me some of their personal struggles. You know who they are, Lord. I pray for peace for them. I pray that they are seeking You diligently. I pray for swift resolution to the issues they are facing.

Today will be a long and physically demanding day for me, Lord. Thank You for the opportunity to push myself. Thank You for this moment in time set apart exclusively to commune with You, Lord. And Father I pray a blessing on my day. Lift me up to have a good and productive day in Your name, Jesus. AMEN.

Praise Report...!

2009-07-01T05:11:00.000-05:00

I thank God today for providing me a great wife and good friends... It's motivating and encouraging to live with a woman who is constantly seeking the Lord. It's awesome to have good friends who truly care about me and put my needs before their own.

I recognize that I do not deserve any of that on my own merit and that God is the Great Provider. I love God. I pray that I am a reflection of Him today.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, let me be a conduit of Your Love. Let me show mercy and grace to the world today. I want to be like You. I hope to impact those around me for the sake of Your Kingdom today.

Father God I lift up my friends Bill, Pat, and Charles to You. You know their struggles. They are men who know You and are seeking a closer walk with You. Oh I pray that You would draw them close to You. I lift up my precious wife to You, too. Please bless her day, my King. Lord I lift up my sister Becky, too....

I pray for her husband as well. Oh melt his heart of stone, Jesus. Keep working on my heart, too Lord. I can always use a little out patient surgery...

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

Intercession

2009-06-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

I hardly slept at all last night. I awakened pretty much every hour on the hour. Every time I woke up I felt the need to pray for a friend or family member who is hurting or under some type of stress or persecution.

Oh it seems the only kind of news we hear of these days is bad news. The Enemy is working overtime. We must draw close to God during this time of persecution. We have to spend time in the Word. We have to have quiet time with God. We must wait on the Lord....!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I stand in the gap for my friends and family this morning. I pray for Divine Spiritual healing on those who are hurting. Lord I recognize that my own 'problems' are few and insignificant compared to what my friends and many in the rest of the world are facing.

I am truly grateful for everything I have. I thank You for my precious wife and lift her up to You. Bless Monica to have a good and productive day. Bless Elijah to be good and allow his mommy to get much accomplished.

Father God, help me to be a comfort to the hurting. You have placed me here at this moment in time and surrounded me with many people in need of encouragement. Lord I pray for the hurting. Give me words of life to impart to them.

I love You Lord. I live to today to honor You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Tennis Tournament Blessing

2009-06-27T04:05:00.001-05:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I pray for a good tournament today. Please bless everyone traveling today. Bless the conduct of the players and their parents. Lord bless myself and my tournament staff today.

Father God I recognize that this is a great opportunity to impact many people for you today. Oh I am not worthy to even carry Your family name, but by Your Grace I will represent you to the best of my ability today.

Everything good that happens comes from You my King. To You be the Glory now and forever, In Jesus' name I pray, Amen...!

Lifting up family and friends...

2009-06-24T06:31:00.000-05:00

You know, I've got troubles. I've got problems. But I'm not going to despair. God will see me through. And he wants us to bear one another's burdens. When I look at the lives of others around me I realize how truly blessed I am. I have much to be thankful and grateful for.

I have several people in my life who need intercessory prayer. This morning I'm lifting up my sweet sister, Becky and my good friend Coach Pat...!

As for my problems, I'm placing my faith in GOD...

Prayer for the Week

2009-06-23T04:24:00.000-05:00

This week is a very action packed , busy week. I have lots of lessons, hitting sessions, a big meeting on Friday, and I'm preparing for a big tournament on Saturday. I'll be delighted when this week is done, but I do welcome the opportunity to impact many others.

One thing I have been thinking about recently, is that on weeks like this I need to be careful that I don't become so busy that I do not allow much quiet time with God into my schedule.

Although my family needs the financial resources that come from having a busy and productive summer, it is all for nothing if my relationship with my Lord and Savior suffers. God is not going to bless something when he is not part of the equation.

This morning my prayer is also for God to help me keep the main thing the main thing: Help me to keep Jesus number one in my Life...!

Come what may, I am going to spend concentrated time in the WORD every day...!

Here's a link to a good video from Dr Stanley that I watched this morning...

http://ww2.intouch.org/site/c.dhKHIXPKIuE/b.2287431/k.5DC1/Life_Principle_Videos.htm

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you my Precious Savior for my many abundant blessings. Thank You for my sweet wife. Help me to be a better husband to her. Thank You for Connor and Elijah. Help me to be a better daddy to them.

Lord thank you for the many abundant new tennis students this summer. Help me to impact them and motivate them in a powerful way today. Lord the Enemy would have me too busy to consider these things.

Father God I pray that you will order my steps today. I want to live solely, completely for You my King. From this moment forward my day is being lived for Your glory. Help me to remember that every thing I say, do, and even think is a reflection of my relationship with You.

Thank you for making me an 'adopted son' in the family of God. I love you and praise you, Lord.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Praise, Thanks, and Petition

2009-06-20T06:56:00.000-05:00

I Had a great camp yesterday...! And I had a great business meeting afterwards. The Lord is definitely moving in my life...!

Something else kinda neat happened, too. I had two different parents tell me about their church and how much they loved their church. It was really refreshing to hear how the Lord is working in other people's lives. -Very encouraging....

Thank You Lord for an awesome day...!

Today I have a big Saturday morning program and then I need to do administrative work on a tournament I am hosting next week. Later today, Monica will go to pick up Connor at the airport from his first trip of the summer.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord You get the Glory for Yesterday. I didn't have a good camp yesterday, YOU ALLOWED and ENABLED me to have a good camp. You get all the Glory. Thank You especially for that delicious, sweet watermelon we enjoyed on our break.

Father God I especially thank You for a good business meeting yesterday. I pray that Your will be done in thae matter.

And Lord I pray blessings on Connor's trip home today. Please bring him home safely and in good spirits. Then bless our week home with him to be a peaceful one.

Father God I ask You to bless my precious wife to have a good and productive day and bless my sis in New York, too,

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

Multiple Praises and Prayer Requests

2009-06-19T06:09:00.000-05:00

Wow... It's amazing to me how this past week absolutely blew by. I was incredibly busy, although it didn't seem so at the time. In the praise report department I had many new tennis students this week and Monica celebrated a wonderful birthday, plus we had several other really precious family moments throughout the week. I also have a nice tennis camp starting in a few hours. There really is a lot good going on in my life. Remember, the Apostle Paul said to dwell on that which was good. -That's what I'm going to do...! Thank You for the blessings in my life, Lord.

But also, I praise God for the Challenges in my life, too. Hey, without challenges I probably wouldn't have as great an appreciation or need for God. I know God knows what He's doing. And He's definitely drawing me close to Him right now.

I do have several mighty challenges to overcome this summer. And I just lay them at the foot of the cross this morning. There's no way I can face these burdens alone and prevail. Praise God I have my precious wife and sons by my side. -And I serve a God who is Mighty to Save...!

Dear Heavenly Father, Lord, I Praise You in the Highest. Thank You for being ever present in my life. Father God, You know all the issues I'm facing. I seek You in these moments of decision, my King. Please Lord help me to wait on You and to hear Your voice.

Lord I lift up Connor today that he enjoys a great last day of his visit with his grandparents. I lift up my sweet wife to have a good and productive day at home. I lift up my sis with her struggles in New York. I lift up Monica's Mom and Dad that they continue to enjoy good health.

Father God I pray blessings on my camp this morning. And Lord I pray a blessing on the Chadwell Family finances.

Lord I give You Glory for every good and perfect gift. I'm living today to honor You and give You Glory. -In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

TGIF

2009-06-13T07:44:00.000-05:00

Friday was a very nice day for the family. I taught tennis classes in the morning in Bay City and Monica and Elijah met me for lunch and we went to the beach in Matagorda and had a wonderful day. Praise God...!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You Lord for a wonderful family day yesterday. I can not believe how much You bless me. You are an Awesome God.

Lord I lift up my sweet wife to You today. Help her to have a good and productive day around the home. Bless Elijah to be obedient and helpful today. Father God I pray for a good tennis program this morning. Help me to impact lives of adults and children in a very positive way today. Father God I pray for my health. In Your Name I command this sore throat to be gone...!

Lord I'm living today to glorify You in everything that I do and say. I love You, my King. I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Friday Thanks and Praise

2009-06-12T06:12:00.000-05:00

Well, the week is winding down and it's been a great week. I am very grateful for a good tennis camp in League City. All my other classes went well, too. This weekend should be a nice relaxing weekend. God is Good...!

Thank You Heavenly Father,

I love You and Thank You and Praise You for Your great blessings. Everything good in my life is because of You, my King. You get the Glory and Praise and Honor for it all.

I pray blessings on my day today, and lift up my family and friends, too. I give today to You, Lord. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.

Praise

2009-06-11T04:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a very nice day. Tennis classes went well. Then I spent the rest of the day with Monica and Elijah doing family activities...! Thank You Lord. I really couldn't have had a better day.

Dear Heavenly Father, Yesterday's 'good' day had nothing to do with myself and EVERYTHING to do with YOU. I am looking forward to today with eager anticipation. I thank You for a great tennis camp this week and pray that this morning's final camp class will be particularly enjoyable and successful.

Father God You are aware of my sore throat. In the name of Jesus I command that sore throat to leave my body...! I thank You for my health, Lord. Help me to lead a manageable schedule this summer so that my body does not run down Please heal my voice, Lord. I need it to glorify You.

Father God I do love You and I am very grateful for all my blessings. I give today to You, my King and pray these things in the power of my precious Lord and Savior: Jesus Christ, Amen.

Focused on Serving the Lord...

2009-06-09T04:47:00.000-05:00

Something is going on, that's for sure. I had trouble sleeping last night. That can mean only one thing: God is trying to tell me something. I spent most of the night off and on reading from Genesis. I was reading how God was so disappointed in mankind around the time of Noah that He decided to wipe out the entire world except for Noah's family.

I was wondering how things could have been worse on earth then than they are now...?

It's difficult to imagine society slipping lower than it already is. Our culture murders babies as a billion dollar industry and it seems that our country's leaders are on a mission to legitimize and protect our freedom of sexual perversion. We've kicked God out of the schools and we can't mention God or Jesus in a government institution or event without someone suing that their rights have been violated. And the list goes on...

God can NOT be happy with this...

As for me and my house... We WILL Serve the Lord. That's my focus today. -Letting my light shine, and giving glory to THE ONE who is WORTHY of my Praise...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

I love You, Lord. I am sorry for the sad state of my country and the world. Father God I will stand for You. I am here Lord, Use Me. I offer today to You, my King. Thank You for another day to affect the lives of those around me for Your Kingdom's sake.

Lord I thank You for my precious family. I pray blessings over their day today. Lord Jesus, in Your precious holy name I pray, Amen.

Praising HIM...

2009-06-08T04:51:00.000-05:00

Wow... What a weekend... And now it's a new week. I'm grateful for my precious family. I'm grateful for my men's small group bible study. I'm grateful for a big tennis camp today and the opportunity to impact many young people for Christ this week. I pray for a good morning, a safe trip on the road, and blessings for my day.

I love You, Lord. Thanks for being a great big God who's in complete control of my life...! Bless my family, keep them safe from harm. Bless my Day. Help me to be obedient, my King. I want to love You and serve You with all my might today. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

It's a Beautiful Day...!

2009-06-05T08:23:00.000-05:00

Wow...! What a gorgeous morning it is this morning. When I see a bright shining morning and the grass and the trees are such a vibrant green and I go outside and hear the birds singing I can not help but to think of the verses:

This is the day that the Lord has made, we will be glad and rejoice in it...! Psalm 118:24

I also love the verse: Let everything that has breath praise the Lord...! -Psalm
150:6

It's a Beautiful Day. Thank You Lord for the Blessing...!

Fearless, Earnest Prayer

2009-06-03T05:54:00.000-05:00

Do You remember the story in Luke 23 as Jesus was on the cross at Calvary, a thief hung next to him awaiting his just punishment – death. Knowing that Jesus did not deserve to die, and believing He was who He claimed to be, the criminal did something incredible…He said Jesus, remember me when You come into Your Kingdom.... Through His anguish, Christ compassionately answered, “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

If Jesus was there for the thief on the cross, you know He’ll be there for you to hear your heart’s cry on behalf of your special requests. How's Your Heart...? I urge You to earnestly and fearlessly seek Him.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I patiently wait for You. I will be obedient, my King. I know You are always there for me. I offer my life today day up as a living sacrifice. I pray that the world can see that I am set apart because of that love. I pray that You can use me.

Father God help me to see opportunities for ministry right in front of me that I might not even recognize.

Lord Bless me. Bless my lessons today. Bless my family and keep them safe, Jesus. I give today to You. I love You, Lord. To You be the Glory, forever and ever, Amen.

Today is for Jesus

2009-06-02T06:51:00.000-05:00

I am dedicating my entire day to serving the Lord... Praise Jesus...! Another Glorious Day in Creation...!

To God be the Glory...!

I love You, Lord..! Thanks and Praise

2009-06-01T04:23:00.000-05:00

I am very grateful to have a men's group bible study that meets on Sundays just a couple of blocks from my house. Last night we read through and discussed the book of Philippians, It was a sweet time of being in the presence of four other men who love the Lord. I just thank and praise the Lord for that experience.

Today is the first day of the summer. I am excited about that...! I have a camp in Clear Lake today. I pray blessings on that camp and look forward to impacting young people for Christ...!

I give today to Jesus...! I Thank You and Praise God for another day of abundant life and walking in the presence of the Lord.

As Long as You Honor God, Anything is Possible

2009-05-30T05:50:00.000-05:00

There's a movie that's been out for awhile called Facing the Giants. It's a great Christian movie. The storyline is about a how a football coach and his team dedicate their lives and their season to the Lord with remarkable results. I love one of the recurring themes from the movie when the coach says to the team:

'When we win, we're going to Praise the Lord, and when we lose we're going to praise the Lord. Whatever happens, God gets the Glory...!'

In whatever they did, God was first in their lives. And the Lord honored them for that.

Friends, although that was a fictional movie, I do believe that's really how it works in the super-natural. God does honor those who honor HIM.

Have You turned your 'season' over to HIM...?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thanks for showing up big in my life yesterday. I love You Lord. My season is dedicated to You, and my life is dedicated to YOU. Everything I do is with You in mind and for Your Glory.

I thank and praise You for a good HPTA meeting yesterday. I am grateful for Monica having a good art event yesterday. I am thankful for a nice evening with Connor and his friend Jimmy yesterday. Lord You are good and all good things come from You.

Today is another day that You have made, and I am rejoicing...! Come what may, I will praise You, Lord...!

Father I pray blessings on the tennis event I will be conducting today. I pray blessings on my precious bride Monica that she has a good and productive day. I wish Connor and Jimmy a peaceful relaxing day on their first day off from school on summer break. And as always I pray for a day of wonder and joy for my sweet little Elijah.

Lord I lift up my Sis in New York and my mother and father in Law in California. I pray blessings and safety on them this morning, too.

Thank You for blessing me, my King. Truly, I am a man who has much. And I know that much is expected of me in return. Lord I recognize that I am merely a steward of Your bounty. Today I give my all to You. I Love You, Lord. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for Today...

2009-05-29T06:48:00.000-05:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You Lord for Yesterday. And thank You for today. I love the scripture: This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it...!

You make every day. No day just shows up randomly. Every day has purpose. Every day has meaning. Father God, in my life I have taken too many days for granted. I have lived many days only for myself. I am very sorry for that.

Today I am living for You. You have done everything for me. You have given Your life for me. You have blessed me with a precious wife and family and a life better than most of the rest of the world.

I know much is expected of me and I freely give my all to You, my King. Today is for You. I love You and Praise You. I thank You for another day of life.

I ask You to help me to make the most of this day! And I ask a special blessing on my meeting in Houston this afternoon and my wife's event this evening.

Thank You Jesus...! In Your precious holy name I pray, Amen.

God ALWAYS Shows UP... Expect Great Things from God...!

2009-05-28T06:13:00.000-05:00

I awakened this morning with this William Carey Quote on my heart and mind...

Expect Great things from God, attempt Great things for God.

William Carey was a Baptist Preacher-Evangelist who lived in the late 1700 to early 1800's.

I first learned about William Carey from my Charles Spurgeon Devotionals. He led a remarkable life. That quote was his life's motto and he did just that. I blogged about him back in August 2008 and memorized that quote.

I believe when you hide scripture and quotes like William Carey's on your heart then God will use that for edification (your own or someone else's) at some later date... I'm glad I memorized that quote because I sure needed the encouragement this morning.

I do expect great things from God. I believe that God can do ANYTHING. He has showed up BIG at the Chadwell house time and time again. I can't believe at this point I would have any anxiety whatsoever given the Lord's track record in my life...!

God Always Shows Up...!

Now, the BIG QUESTION is... -What great thing am I going to attempt for God...?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You Lord for the encouraging words you placed on my heart this morning. Lord You are Good. I love You and I give this day to You, my King...! You are faithful...

I will follow You, Father God. My life is in Your hands. I will not be anxious today. You will order my steps. Father God I need You. I am nothing apart from You.

Lord I pray blessings on my precious wife this morning. Guide her steps as well, my King. Bless Monica with a day of great accomplishment in Your name. Thank You for her help and her witness. Thank You for my wife's sweet, unconditional love. I love and cherish her.

Father God I also pray a hedge of protection around Connor and Elijah today. Please bless them and keep them safe, Lord. Lord I pray that they would learn to both expect and attempt great things from God, too.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Today

2009-05-27T07:26:00.000-05:00

I have an overwhelming amount of work to do today... The only way to start a day like today is right here in prayer and meditation. Actually, the only way to start ANY day is in prayer and meditation.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I commit today to You. I will not be discouraged. Father God I just pray that You will help me to prioritize my day and knock out as many of these projects as possible.

I love You Lord. I live today to honor You.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Interesting Conversation....

2009-05-26T05:51:00.000-05:00

I had an interesting conversation with a friend this weekend. He asked me that with all the advances in modern technology if I thought our society's quality of life is better now than it was ten or twenty years ago...?

At first I wasn't sure how to answer. How one measures their own quality of life is very subjective and will vary from person to person.

After careful consideration I think our quality of life is worse than twenty years ago. 'Modern Conveniences' have allowed us to stay more busy. The world is moving at a very frightening pace.

In my own life I want to be less busy and have more time to interact with people around me.

I do enjoy the convenience of a personal laptop and am pretty much addicted to blogging. It's hard to believe that computers were just becoming popular when I was in high school, twenty six years ago. Yes, society has changed immensely over the past few decades. And I say it's not so much for the better.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I recognize that I can not be fully used for Kingdom Work if I am saddled down with busy-ness. Father God I'm praying to You to help me get back to a 'sane' life style and schedule. Let today be the first day of my victory over busy-ness. Help me in the area of time management. Help me to prioritize.

Lord, the same power that conquered the grave lives in me. Through YOU I can defeat busy-ness. I Believe in YOU. I trust YOU. I love YOU, Lord.

I Thank You and Praise You for my precious family. Father God I pray a hedge of protection around them and this house today. Bless them Lord and keep them safe. Bless me to be the model of a Godly husband and daddy to them.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the Family

2009-05-24T07:13:00.000-05:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I lift up my family this morning. I pray for a peaceful day. Father God bless my communication skills today and my tone throughout the day as I interact with my family and others.

Lord as far as it has to do with me I will live in peace. I love You Lord. I give today to You.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for Travelers

2009-05-23T06:36:00.000-05:00

I know many are traveling this weekend. Today I'm lifting up travelers, police, and state troopers who will be on the road. I'm also lifting up our family as we are engaged in some major home renovation projects...

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, I'm already hearing traffic accident reports early this morning on the news. I just heard that a police officer was injured during a traffic stop. Father God I lift that officer up to You right now. I pray for travelling mercy for all who are on the road today and this weekend.

Lord I'm lifting up my family as well. Weekends can be a challenge for this blended family anyway, and this will be a extra long weekend.

I claim victory in Your name, my King. I love You and Praise You. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.

Memorial Day Weekend... FREEDOM IS NOT FREE

2009-05-22T05:22:00.000-05:00

This is the start of a special holiday weekend. coming up on Monday we will honor and remember all those who have served in our country's armed forces and especially those who have given their life in the line of duty defending our way of life and freedom.

Defending our way of life... Hmm... What IS 'our way of life' any more, any way? I don't know now.

But FREEDOM has become the right to destroy what once was this great country founded on Christian principles...

I WEEP for America and those fallen heroes this weekend. I recognize that the price paid to purchase and to continue to defend my Freedom is a high one...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord thank You for Heroes who have lived and died defending my rights and liberties. And I thank You for THE HERO, Your Son, Jesus who died for my sins so that I could have eternal life.

Lord, recognizing what Your Son did on Calvary is the heart of what we are celebrating this weekend. America was founded primarily by people seeking freedom to worship You as they pleased.

I am grateful to be an American and to live in America. And I am most definitely grateful for those who have come before me and given their lives defending all that I hold dear.

This weekend I remember those throughout history who have given their life and lift up the families of the fallen.

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

Praising God...

2009-05-21T06:44:00.000-05:00

I have a great life and am very grateful to the Lord God from whom all my blessings flow. I am praising HIM for a sweet little three and a half year old son who was insisting that we watch the movie Ten Commandments last night.

Praying For The Poor

2009-05-20T07:16:00.000-05:00

I read a short blog post from a tennis pro friend of mine who is a missionary in Hong Kong, but travels the world ministering to pros on the ATP and WTA tours...

It reminded me of how blessed I am to be living in America and my family and I are able to enjoy the comfortable lifestyle we do. Today I feel really convicted to live under my means as much as possible and use my resources to help others less fortunate than myself!

Couldn't Sleep Last Night: Praise the Lord...!

2009-05-19T06:44:00.000-05:00

I was up late last night... I couldn't sleep. I was studying the book of Proverbs and praying... I simply could not put my bible down. I love the book of Proverbs. I hardly slept any, then Elijah awakened me early this morning, but I still feel great today... THAT'S GOD...!

My memory verse today is Proverbs 15.1.... A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger...!

Monica has had this one posted on our refrigerator for a long time....

Oh I'm praying for gentle answers...!

Today is going to be a great day. God is Good!

God is HERE...!

2009-05-18T07:24:00.000-05:00

I'm still in awe of Elijah's miracle healing this past week. This morning I awakened with the lyrics from YOU ARE HERE in my head... I love the group Hillsong. I hope you have time to listen to this eight minute live concert video. At about 3:30 into the video, they get to the chorus...

The SAME POWER that conquered the grave LIVES IN ME...!

I CAN NOT get that Chorus out of my head, And don't want to, either...

PRAISE YOU JESUS...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank YOU for being ever-present in my life. YOU ARE HERE...! Praise YOU, Jesus...! Lord every day I just surrender myself to You. I am such a sinner, Lord. But I am truly sorry for my sins.

I ask You to lift me up today my King. Help me to walk closer with You. Help me to point others toward You. Father God I want to honor You with every aspect of my life.

Lord I lift up my family. Please bless my precious wife to have a good and productive day. Bless Elijah and Connor. Keep them safe and let their day be filled with the wonder and joy.

Father God, there is so much hurt, sickness, and sadness in the world. I lift up my friends and family who are in a bad way right now.

Specifically, I lift up my sister and her family in New York. Lord lift Becky Up. I also lift up my friend Brad who is still very ill. I pray for Divine Healing for him, my King.

Father God, I Love You. I'm living for You. In Jesus' Name I pray, AMEN.

Thanks and Praise...

2009-05-16T06:42:00.001-05:00

Wow... Yesterday was a nice day...! I had a few lessons in the morning, I did some office work, then had a nice lunch with my wife and worked around the house yesterday afternoon.

Then, to top it all off... I slept well last night! YEA...! I think that's worthy of Praise and Worship!

Today I lift up tournament participants in the Kingwood Junior Gran Prix tennis tournament. I also lift up my own lessons throughout the morning and afternoon.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thanks for giving me a peaceful day yesterday, my King. It was wonderful. I am so grateful for my blessings, -especially my sweet precious family...!

Lord I lift up those traveling to and from tournaments today. I pray for safety. I pray for sportsmanship. Father God lift up those who are running the tournament today also.

Lord I ask for a blessing on my own lessons today. Enable me to be a good coach this morning and to have a great impact on those whom I am coaching.

Father God I just give today to You. My life is all about you, Jesus. I love You Lord. And I pray these things in Jesus' Name, AMEN.

Focus... Isaiah 50:7

2009-05-15T07:28:00.000-05:00

I asked God what was my word today, what was my FOCUS...? The response I received was:

Set Your face like flint...

I knew that verse was in the bible but did not know what the address was. After a 'phrase search' I discovered it was Isaiah 50:7.

That verse merits a lot of study and meditation. But on the surface I love the first part of what it says...

For the Lord God helps me...

That's enough right there to make your day. God DOES help HIS children. So set Your face like flint with me.

Be focused and determined to WAIT on the Lord.

Be focused and determined to FOLLOW the Lord.

Be focused and determined to LIVE every moment for HIM...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

I love You Lord. You help me. So I will set my face like flint and know everything will be all right.

Father God I lift up Pat, Brad, and my sis to You. They are all in need of some sort of healing. Lord I present my precious family to You. Bless them, Guard them and keep them safe.

Lord, I pray for this weekend. I don't know what it has in store, but I pray that it is a weekend like no other for Your Glory...

I give today to You, my King. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen