Revival Countdown - 1</h1> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 1</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 11:40:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Let us Pray...</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Heavenly Father, I praise You for who You are and what You have done.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Primarily for the giving of your Son Jesus Christ to die for my many sins.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I ask Your forgiveness for my sins, my attitudes, my thoughts and my actions.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">They are direct assaults against Your holiness and Your love for me.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Please forgive me.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I thank You for all I have and all I am. You are the provider of all things.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Forgive me for my lack of thanksgiving and selfishness.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Help me to see Your work in me and Your love for me clearly.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Help me to live my life to revolve around You.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">It's all about You.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Fill me completely with Your Holy Spirit.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Help me allow Him totally authority in my life so He can do His work in me.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I repent of my sins and the sin of doing it on my own and not by Your Spirit.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I promise to allow Him total leadership and freedom in my life.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I commit to You this coming week as a good steward.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I will not allow anything to stand in my way and restrict Your blessings in my life.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I will be obedient to You now and always.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I AM YOURS.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Do what You wish.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I trust You.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Use me as an avenue to bring dieing souls to You that they may have life.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Open my eyes to those who need Your salvation.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I will open my mouth and speak about You to my family and friends.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I will do all I can to stir revival;</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">First in me, then in others, so that it would spread everywhere.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I Love You!</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">In Jesus' name, AMEN.</span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 2</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:12:00 GMT</p> <p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"></span> </p> <p><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span>Sacrifice...</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Luke 9:23 says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me."</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>To be a true disciple, to be in close proximity and follow within speaking, hearing and seeing distance of Christ, it takes sacrifice.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I often wonder what it would have been like to follow in the pack that constantly surrounded Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>As you read through the gospels, you soon find out that people were always around Him. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Most of them did so for reasons of need.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>What would it have been like to be in the inner sanctum - with Him daily?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Watching Him eat, sleep, preach and communicate.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>To talk to Him one on one.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>WOW!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Now that would have been awesome.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He only chose a select few - 12 to be exact - to be in that close circle of friends.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Oh, to be one of those 12 men.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>What an experience that would have been.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">All of those men that followed Him left all: jobs, families, fortunes, lifestyles.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Because, remember, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"The Son of Man has no place to lay His head".</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He had no property yet He owned the cattle of a thousand hills.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He didn't own a boat though the waves were at His command.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He left no earthly inheritance yet He calls us to be joint-heirs with Him and all He owns in Heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>O, What a Savior.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>What a friend we have in Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Romans 8:29 says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><u>conformed to the image of His Son</u></b>..."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></i>God's desire is that we be like Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Philippians 2:8 says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross."</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>To be like Christ involves being willing to sacrifice all now for something far greater and better later.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's what Jesus was willing to do and He did.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Yes, sacrifice even our own lives here on earth in martyrdom if that's what He wants.</span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">Let me give you a very innocent example so you can see where I'm going.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I remember years ago when I was very young going to a lot of Revivals.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We had them constantly.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Some revivals continued for weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Once, here in Columbus at the First FWB Church where I'm from, we had a revival that ran for 11 weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Every night at 7:30 p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Service would last over an hour.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Many people were saved and rededicated their lives to Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>My mom would make me take my school homework to church with me (as many of the parents did) and I would sit in the pew beside mom doing my homework.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>My wife and I did the same with our daughters on many occasions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">When I think back on that, I realize that my mom and dad were teaching us what was important.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Hey, and it didn't hurt me a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I actually did graduate high school and I can't help but believe that much of what was said in the sermons did sink in.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;">I choose to do what is a priority even if it means a small sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Following Christ demands sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>For most of us, the gas we use to attend the revival may not be a big deal but to some of you, it may be a sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It may mean rearranging your schedule so you can participate and sacrificing a business deal, meeting or sale.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It may mean you'll have to put off an event or leisure activity. It may mean a game or performance is missed. Are you willing to sacrifice for Christ?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>For this revival?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Take a moment to prayerfully look at your priority list and see what's important.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It is only then you will be able to make a sacrificial decision.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></span></p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 3</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:52:00 GMT</p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> </span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Suppressing your need...<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">I have never run my car out of gas.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I have come very close but, as of yet, have never become stranded on the side of the road because I forgot to fuel-up.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Years ago, people did not have the luxury of a low fuel indicator like we have today.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>A gauge was all they had.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Now days, when our fuel is low, that small yellow light beside the "E" on the fuel gauge catches the attention of our peripheral vision.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's called a WARNING LIGHT and it's there for a reason.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It let's me know that if I don't get fuel soon, my car cannot continue to operate.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">The Christian is fueled by the Holy Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Sadly, many are low on His presence to fuel their lives and they are not aware of the impending sorrow and trouble that is coming their way.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It is He, the Holy Spirit of God that breathes in us, moves in us and keeps us alive.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He is the One who made us alive when we were saved and it is He that keeps us that way.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>WE NEED HIM DESPERATELY! <span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">I see so many Christians stranded beside lifes road - completely powerless; susceptible to the dangers that lurk in the dark and unprotected.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Many lose their families, their fortunes, their mind and their joy simply because they substitute the One fuel with other fuels that are of the world: money, pleasure, power, prominence, prestige and a "It's All For Me" attitude.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let me promise you - let me guarantee you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Once fueled with the hi-octane liquid of the Holy Spirit, any substitute leads to spiritual lethargy and, eventually, in need of resuscitation.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">You need to determine your fuel level spiritually.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>A good time to do that is now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>With revival in our midst, look at your fuel indicator.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>"Why do you not care?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why are you not affected?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why doesn't is matter?"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If these, and similar questions, express your opinion of revival, your fuel indictor is telling you that you are dangerously low.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Are you not spending personal time with Jesus in prayer?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Are you lax in reading His word for you?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>You are at the point where your spiritual engine is spitting and sputtering and is eventually going to die.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>What should you do?<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Psalm 139:23-24 says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></i></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."</span></i><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Allow God to do a "Spring cleaning" of your soul.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let Him search thoroughly - every room, every nook and cranny, behind every locked door, underneath every stone.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Allow Him to GRIP you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's right; GRIP.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In most every sport, grip is essential. Imagine playing softball and, with bat in hand, you swing but do not grip the bat.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The bat will fly out of your hand.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's the same in golf, football, fishing and many others.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let God's Holy Spirit get hold of you - grip you and deeply impact your life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let the Holy Spirit reprove you and ignite you. It is only by being thoroughly consumed by Him that you will have meaning and peace in your life.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Many people see the warning light and unwisely think they can go just a little bit farther.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If your warning light is on, stop at this exit in front of you called revival.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Don't try to make it to the next one.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's further away and you're lower on fuel than you think.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Now is the time.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Don't miss it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Jesus told the disciples to wait in </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Jerusalem</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> and the Holy Spirit would come.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>They waited - all 120 of them and He did come.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Any one who left before He came missed out.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Don't miss out.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Don't suppress God's Spirit by ignoring the indicators.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The time for revival is now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I urge you to grasp this wave of God and "Fill 'er up!"<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 4</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:05:00 GMT</p> <p> </p><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Prayer Changes People...<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">You've heard, as I have, the saying "Prayer Changes Things".<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Agreed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>But I'll go one better than that: "PRAYER CHANGES PEOPLE!' and that's what brings true revival.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Revival comes when we understand the singular thread that runs through its fabric: "It's All About Him".<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's not a grasping of this concept but a total change of our mind, thoughts, heart and actions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>You see, we focus way to much on ourselves and what we want.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We focus too much on our own expectations of revival.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We should look to the past to see how God has blessed and moved in historic revivals.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>But, too often, our focus is on the feelings revival brings; especially, the good feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>As I tried to intimate yesterday, revival begins with a contrite spirit not a "Yee-Haw" attitude.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">I assume we should be excited that we're going to have a revival but, in reality, revival usually begins with sorrowful rather than joyous emotions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The feeling of victory comes but only after the tears.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>A.W. Tozer, pastor and author of such Christian classics as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">The Pursuit of God</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">The Knowledge of the Holy </i>said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply." <span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></i>No one wants to be hurt deeply but it is this sacrificial path that leads to spectacular personal revival.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Our next step in preparing for a true, long lasting revival is prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's been said but can't be said too much: This Is </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><u>The Singular Greatest Weakness Of Christians!</u></b><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I am in some great company such as Charles Spurgeon, Billy Graham and others in trying to understand this spiritual phenomenon.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why is it so hard for the children of God the Father to pray unless we are in deep distress or trouble?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We call on Abba (daddy) when we're in a pickle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why is it so hard to consistently honor Him with our presence at His throne?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The Bible is full of numerous passages that encourage and reprove us about prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>A few (without references): <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"Ask and it shall be given; seek and you will find; knock and it shall be opened."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>"Come boldly to the throne of grace."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>"You have not because you ask not." </i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I could go on and on.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Even with all the begging God does to bring us into His presence relationally, we don't pray.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Here's my commentary and it's succinct: We do not pray because we do not feel we have a need to.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>This strikes at the heart of our Father and at Proverbs 3:5 when it says <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart..."</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Prayer demonstrates dependence and we are not dependent on God.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let's be honest - we live like we don't need God.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We pray like we don't need God.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The absence of time with God tells more about our dependence than our words do.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>None of us would say, <u>"I don't need God except for my salvation"</u> but our actions speak louder than our words.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Do a little test.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If you're married, spend a day of total silence toward your spouse and see how they handle it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>All kidding aside, I guarantee you they wouldn't like it and it would put a strain on your relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Do you understand that by not communicating to the Godhead through prayer puts a strain on your relationship?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He speaks to you every day through creation, His word and the Holy Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Talk back - please!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Say something.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Cry out in apologetic sorrow for the selfish and proud attitude of not praying because we lack dependence on Him.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Let me say this loud and clear: </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><u>REVIVAL WILL NOT COME WITHOUT PRAYER</u></b><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> and a lot of it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">ALL</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> must to swallow our pride and this religious rebellion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It is essential and is a deal breaker.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Please commit to prayer </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">NOW</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Along with me, would you promise, as God is your witness, to pray daily - especially for the revival?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Not that we would feel good but that we would allow God to do whatever it takes to stir a great revival in our hearts personally?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If we do that, it will spill over into the whole church.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If you are willing to make this commitment, do it publicly.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Comment your affirmation on this blog and let the whole world know, "I want true revival - </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">NOW</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">!"<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p></span></span> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 5</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:30:00 GMT</p> <font size="5"><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"> </span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">One Step Ahead...<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">We are kidding ourselves and being disrespectful to the holiness of God if we expect God to bless, answer prayer, provide, etc... when we willfully & knowingly sin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That goes against the grain of Biblical doctrine and the very nature of God.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>As well, it would be impossible to expect God to bring revival to our church or any church where the membership lives under the shroud of unconfessed sin. <span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Sin is a separator.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It distances us from the grace of God and blocks His blessings and spiritual action among us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It's like putting water on fire or in a gas tank.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It disables the properties that cause combustion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The Bible calls this quenching the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">5:19</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;">).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why would we want to resist the One who is on our side?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Why would we want to disable the One who has all power and loves us unconditionally?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>We do this through a lack of repentance.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Repentance is a natural & necessary ingredient of revival.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If there is revival, there is repentance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It begins with those close to God who realize its necessity and goes down the line to the sinner who walks through our doors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>What I want us to understand is this.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In order to be one step ahead and see God do tremendous things as He actuates revival within us, it is better if this essential component of revival start now rather than later.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">I have seen revival services where God has gotten hold of people in a tremendous way and repentance occurs.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I have seen revival where preparation is made prior to the revival services where repentance begins before the scheduled services begin.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In my observation, the latter is always more lasting than the former.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>If we enter this time of revival repentant, we can expect God to do marvelous things and see sinners become repentant and accept Christ.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Repentance begins with remorse over your sins.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Isaiah 57:15 says,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"> "For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: "I dwell in the high and holy place, With him who has a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><u>contrite</u></b> and humble spirit, To revive the spirit of the humble, And to revive the heart of the contrite ones."<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></i>Contrite, (from the Latin contritus 'ground to pieces, crushed by guilt) is sincere and complete remorse (i.e. regret with guilt) for sins one has committed. The remorseful person is said to be contrite.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It is understanding that our sins are not mistakes but direct assaults and insults toward the God who saved us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Would you ever imagine spitting in the face of our Savior Jesus as He hung on the cross?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In a sense, that is a perfect analogy of a sinning Christian who sins and thinks nothing of it.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Repentance means to confess our sin to God and turn from it - quit doing it!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>When we are remorseful for our godless attitude toward sin, it will result in forgiveness which leads to revival.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Let's be one step ahead in preparation for revival by taking care of this now rather than later.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Pray with me.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">Heavenly Father, I am <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><u>SO SORRY</u></b> for the sins I have committed and that I keep on committing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I have grown accustomed to and justified sin in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Now, I recognize the intense pain it causes you.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It is for the remission of sin that you came.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I am sorry for my sins.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I confess my sins to you and ask for your forgiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I also ask for help in allowing your Holy Spirit full control of my life as I endeavor to never fall into the state of willful sin again.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;">In Jesus' name, Amen.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p></span></font> </article> <article> <h1>Revival Countdown - 6</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:25:00 GMT</p> <font size="5"><em></em> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">"Si quiere ver lo que nunca ha visto, tiene que hacer lo que nunca ha hecho."<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></i></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">This is a statement on a wall in one of our churches in </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">Costa Rica</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Our 2011 Hillview Mission Trip Team had this printed on their shirts for their trip to </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">El Salvador</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It grabbed my attention when I heard the translation.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In English, it says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"If you want to see what you've never seen, then do what you've never done."</i><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">As I look back over the years and the numerous revivals I have attended, success during those times came from making this statement a reality.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>God wants to do tremendous, awe inspiring things among His people.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He wants them to experience His power and His Holy Spirit in a way that causes them to desire more!!! - More of Him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That is exactly what He wants.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He wants us to want Him and a deep, meaningful relationship with Him.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's the bottom line.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's what it's all about.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">Our desire for Him must surpass the desire for an emotional high.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It must supersede all relationships.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>It must eclipse even the passion for ministry and service that many of us feed off of.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Better than a good sermon, an accomplishment for Him, or feeding 5,000 people is the passion to "know Him" (Philippians </span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">3:10</span><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">We need revival more than we need food.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Psalm 84:10a says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand..."</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's what we need.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's what I need - to passionately desire to be in God's presence to the point that it is more important than food.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>In Job 23:12b, Job says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;">"...I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food."</i><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's what we need and that's what revival will bring.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">When I fly in an airplane, about 30 minutes prior to landing, the pilot will come on the loud speaker and tell us that we are beginning our final descent.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>You feel the jet engines cut back in power and the plane slowing down.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Then you feel the plane begin to gradually go down.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Excitement mounts as you get closer to your destination.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>That's the feeling I have now.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Six days from now, it begins - or does it?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Pastor Kyle said yesterday in service it needs to begin now - and I agree.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>The services begin in six days but revival needs to begin now.<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span> </p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">Pray with me...<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><u><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">Lord, give me passion, desire and excitement - not for things; even Your things.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Give me a glimpse of You that my heart will stir within me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>May I be so consumed by You and thoughts of You that NOTHING else matters.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Forge in me a true heart that yearns for you and can't eat or sleep until I am totally consumed by your Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>May what I do as it pertains to You and the building of our relationship cause me to see what I've never seen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Give me a fresh glimpse of your glory.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Give me REVIVAL!<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></u></i></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><u><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">In Jesus' name,<span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></u></i></span></p> <p style="MARGIN:0in 0in 0px;FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;FONT-SIZE:19px;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><u><span style="FONT-SIZE:12pt;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;">Amen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY:Arial;"></span></span></u></i></span></p></font> </article> <article> <h1>Is Glenn Beck A Christian?</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:49:00 GMT</p> <p>I have been taught from the moment I became a Christian that Jehovah Witness' and Mormons were not Christians. It all stems back to scripture - particularly 2 John: <em>7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world <u>who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh</u>. <u>This is a deceiver and an antichrist</u>. 9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the <u>doctrine of Christ</u> <u>does not have God</u>. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10 If <u>anyone</u> comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do <u>not receive him into your house nor greet him; 11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds. </u></em>(emphasis added)<br /></p> <p>So, where does Glenn fit into all of this? The Mormons do not believe Jesus is God but "a god". They believe He is a son of God - a creation of God as is Lucifer (the Devil). and that Jesus was created along side of him. All I am saying is be careful. Every one in the USA has religous & political freedom. I just believe it is against scripture to equate him with Christianity or to look at him as a leader of a Christian movement. </p> <p>Something to think about. </p> <p>Read the following...</p> <p><a href="http://www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=1141100">http://www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=1141100</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.glennbeckmormon.com/">http://www.glennbeckmormon.com/</a></p> <p>Have a great week.</p> <p>PB </p> </article> <article> <h1>Bill and Tabitha are back from Haiti - Check out the pictures, video and recaps!</h1> <p>Doug Donovan — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:23:00 GMT</p> <p><font size="7">Haiti Trip recaps:</font> <br /></p><p><font size="6"><a href="http://hillviewchurch.com/community/photos/haiti_2010/default.aspx" target="_blank">Click here</a> to view the Pictures </font></p><p><font size="6"><a href="http://hillviewchurch.com/community/impulse/Haiti_0001_low_res.wmv">Click here</a> to watch the Recap Video</font></p><p><font size="6"><a href="http://www.hillviewchurch.com/community/sermons/wma/2010-03-07_2_HaitiTrip.wma">Click here</a> to listen to streaming audio of Bill and Tabitha's report on the trip during Sunday's Worship Service</font><br /></p> </article> <article> <h1>Evangelism 101 - c</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:39:00 GMT</p> <p><a href="http://hillviewchurch.com/community/blogs/bill_hayes/evangelism.jpg"></a><a href="http://hillviewchurch.com/community/blogs/bill_hayes/evangelism.jpg"></a>We experienced another person accepting Christ for the first time at Hillview this past Sunday. PTL!!!!!!! God is good and has blessed us. We need to continue to invite people who do not know Christ to church so they can hear the word of God. With that said, I want to comment about people coming forward in a worship service.</p> <p>The Bible says, <em>"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:14)</em> Now, I could get the big head and take a lot of the credit for the ones who come to the altar. But is it really my ministry that draws them? Here's what I think. The vast majority of those who come forward and accept Christ can trace the credit back to the person who was a friend to them and invited them or encouraged them to come. I just get to put the toppings on the desert. It's not me. It's YOU! You make the impact. You live the life. You are the open Bible people see and read. That, along with the moving of God's Holy Spirit (which is essential) is what does the trick. Then, they hear the word and accept Christ.</p> <p><em>Matthew 5:16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."</em></p> <p>Let's keep the wave going. Invite someone to church this weekend that you've never invited before and watch God do His thing! </p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>Evangelism 101 - b</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:00:00 GMT</p> <p>What is a friend? Proverbs 17:17 "A friend loves at all times..." Friends are there no matter what. They support you, care for you, help when needed and pray for you. They are honest. They tell you things that may be difficult to bear because they love you. Specifically, a friend wants what's best for you.</p> <p>Mark 2:1-5 says, "And again He entered Capernaum after some days, and it was heard that He was in the house. Immediately many gathered together, so that there was no longer room to receive them, not even near the door. And He preached the word to them. Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven you." Jesus not only healed the man physically but he forgave his sin.</p> <p>If you knew the Master could heal one of your friends of an incurable disease, wouldn't you take him to Him? This weekend, you have the opportunity to see your friend healed - healed spiritually! Wouldn't it be AWESOME to see your friend walk down the isle of the church and come forward to accept Christ into their heart for the forgiveness of sin and see Him heal their life?</p> <p>Be praying and thinking now who you could invite this weekend to hear the greatest story ever told. Make a difference in your friends life. Show them you care!</p> <p>Praying for you all! </p> <p>PB<br /><br /></p> </article> <article> <h1>Financial Peace University Canceled Tonight!</h1> <p>Doug Donovan — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:12:00 GMT</p> <p>Due to the snow, we are canceling the FPU class tonight (2/9). The course will continue next Tuesday evening.</p><p>Nick & Doug <br /></p> </article> <article> <h1>Evangelism 101-a</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:28:00 GMT</p> <p>In my daily Bible readings this past week, I read the last chapter in the book of Matthew where it says, "Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:18-20) Pretty self-explanatory.</p> <p>We have a mandate to go. We have a motive to go. Do we have a mind to go? The word "go" is a verb - an action word. It assumes there is going to be action on the part of the one using the word. Jesus expects action on our part. </p> <p> Now, let's understand something. I'm not talking about carrying a Bible under your arm everywhere you go. But I am talking about carrying God's word around with you at all times "in your head." Having a moderate understanding of salvation as explained by Jesus is important. That way whenever anyone approaches you or you are able to speak with someone, you won't fumble around on the important stuff.</p> <p>HOMEWORK - go read and memorize one verse of scripture: JOHN 3:16. We'll start there. If you memorize that verse and break it down, you have all you need along with your personal testimony of how you accepted Christ.</p> <p>See you tonight in our Elder led prayer meeting.</p> <p> PB</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><br /> </p> </article> <article> <h1>"I'll Pray For You"</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 15:38:00 GMT</p> <p>Doug Donovan spoke at our Men's Breakfast this morning and did a fantastic job. He talked a lot about prayer and it brought something to mind that I have to share. So often when someone brings a situation or problem to us, we say "I'll pray for you." I worry this is often used as a casual response and there is a danger of it becoming nothing more than a <span class="fn">cliché</span>. How serious are you when you say those words?</p> <p>They are powerful words. Prayer is a powerful thing. We move Heaven and God moves earth and its events when we pray. I made a commitment a long time ago not to lie. When I tell someone I'm going to pray, as soon as I possibly can I stop what I'm doing and pray as I promised. We receive prayer requests from a lot of different avenues: personal requests, FaceBook, Twitter, the Hillview Prayer Blog and many others. We need to be more serious about prayer.</p> <p>We had our first elder led prayer meeting this past Wednesday night and there were only a handful in attendance. It is so sad that God's people don't recognize where God's power is displayed so tremendously in our life. Prayers are more powerful than atomic bombs or hurricanes. Prayers have moved armies, healed the sick, helped on a school test, changed the course and direction of our lives and brought us to where we are. It's time we get serious about prayer.</p> <p>We are postponing the series on I-Family until later. God has a message for all of us to hear. Be here at Hillview tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. for Sunday School and 11 a.m. for church to hear what God has to say. Begin praying now that God will use this time to change all of our lives!</p> <p>Love you all.</p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>2010 Church Budget Proposal</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:56:00 GMT</p> <p>We will be voting on this budget draft on Sunday morning December 6, 2009. Proceed to the Members Area to see the budget proposed by the budget committee.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Church Financials Update October 2009</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:33:00 GMT</p> <p>The church finances are now up and can be viewed in the members area. If you are a member and cannot access them, please e-mail <a href="mailto:411@HillviewChurch.com">411@HillviewChurch.com</a>.</p> <p>Hillview Web Development Team</p> </article> <article> <h1>Hillview Has Had A Great Week!</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 22:12:00 GMT</p> <p>Trunk or Treat and the Chili Cook-Off were a huge success. Over 100 people attended Wednesday night and it was the first time for many of them. The kids and even the adults were all dressed up. There was a lot of excitement in the air. The tension ran high as our three highly qualified judges tasted each entry. The winner for the Chili Cook-Off was Carol Meeker and boy was her chili good! <strong>There are over 60 pictures in the PHOTO section of the web-site so go and check them out.</strong></p> <p>Today, we had work day at the church. We had about 20 of the Hillview faithful and a lot was accomplished. It won't be long until the new "state of the art" Audio/Visual room will be on-line.</p> <p>I want to say a special thanks to EVERYONE who made this week so AWESOME by participating in the church-wide activities. It's people like you who show your love for God and a heart for Him and His church.</p> <p>I also want to thank Kyle & Jessica Topy and Dwayne & Angela Young for their effort in the success of the Trunk or Treat. Special thanks to trustee Jerry Young and the crew for their hard work today for Work Day.</p> <p>All of you are loved so much! Blessings.</p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>Hang On To Your Gun</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:16:00 GMT</p> <p>I was watching the movie "All Through The Night" with Jackie Gleason as Starchy and Humphrey Bogart playing Gloves Donahue. Gloves was <span class="synopsis_text">tracking down a Nazi spy ring.</span> An old movie but worth the watch. There was one scene where Gloves was being chased by the bad guys. He shoots at one of the villains several times and then runs out of bullets in his six-shooter. He looks frustrated at the gun and pitches it into the woods. That caught my attention. I've seen a lot of movies where people throw guns away when there empty. Why? Guns are expensive. They should hang on to them just in case they run by a place where they can buy bullets. Seems like a waste to me.</p> <p>As parents, sometimes I think we throw the gun away too soon. Someone in the family has their heart set on doing something you know they shouldn't do or go where they shouldn't go. We give our defense, argue, and listen as they cry and beg and, sometimes, get very upset. So, against our good common sense, we give in and let them have their way. Is that wise? </p> <p>Proverbs 19:18 says, "Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying." (KJV) WOW! Solomon put it very plainly. He knew the mind and attitude of the common teenager even way back in his day. In reality, children are the same now as they always have been. My wife wisely advised me one time to "pick your fights." If it's worth standing firm, stand and don't let the tears distract you from what's right. If it's something that is not distracting or dangerous, sometimes it's best to give in. But when you know it is not in the best interest of the child or family, stand your ground. Hang on to your gun and don't throw it away - proverbially speaking.</p> <p>God Bless You! We're in this together.</p> <p>Bill<br /> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Half Empty? Half Full?</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:12:00 GMT</p> <p>We just concluded a series of services within our local conference called a "revival". Neil Gilliland from the International Missions office of our denomination spoke and did a phenomenal job. His messages were so practical and to the point. One of the things he referred to a few times during the revival was our attitude towards life. </p> <p>It seems that a lot of people, maybe the majority, always look at the glass being half empty rather than half full. Now I know that we all encounter instances that are sometimes severe - like the loss of a job or the death of a loved-one. Remember this: our understanding of how big God is and the power He has is seen in our response to those "severe" times. </p> <p>My dad was married to my mom for over 30 years. During the majority of her life with him, she had Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She was not even supposed to see me enjoy my 12<sup>th</sup> birthday but she did. Later on, she was diagnosed with *** cancer - a cancer that took her life at the young age of 54. During all of this time my dad was a pastor. He not only had the care of the church he was responsible for but the care of his wife - my mom.</p> <p>In all of that time, I never heard a word of regret come out of his mouth. He was happy with his beautiful wife and his job as a pastor and just trusted God that He would take care of these "severe" situations. </p> <p>Whenever a situation occurs, we have a choice. We can look at it with the "half empty" mentality or we can try to understand that God has His purpose - His will planned for every situation and event in our lives.</p> <p>Trust God. I know times get tough. I have been and will be there again. I have learned this past week from Neil that in all things, I need to be content and just trust the One who loves me and gave His life for me (Hebrews 13:5).</p> <p>Blessings!</p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>A Grain Of Sand</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:41:00 GMT</p> <p>Once again tomorrow, I will be conducting a funeral.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I don’t know how many I have done in my life but I’d say it’s approaching 100.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>This service will be a little closer to my heart because it is the great aunt of my wife, Cheri.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>There will be several family members there that I know God wants to speak to so I want to make sure I do it right and let God have total use of me.</p> <p></font>Every funeral reminds me of the brevity of life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I was thinking yesterday that if you would take the whole of our life from birth to demise and compare it to the hard to understand concept of eternity, it would be like contrasting a single, solitary grain of sand with <strong>ALL</strong> the sand in <strong>ALL</strong> the world.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Life is so short yet we seem to focus so much on that little grain of sand we call our life.</p> <p></font>God doesn’t look at life that way. A couple scriptures give us insight into God’s perspective: <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">James </b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">4:14</b> “whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a <u>vapor</u> that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">2 Peter 3:8</b> “But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord <u>one</u> day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as <u>one</u> day.” <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">Psalm 116:15</b> “Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the <u>death</u> of His saints.”</p> <p></font>All these verses teach us that God looks at our lives with an eternal perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>He is aware and involved in our extremely short life here on earth but is more concerned about our grain of sand within the realm of the kingdom – within the realm of eternity.</p> <p></font>After reading Psalm 116:15 above, I guess God gets all excited and looks forward to our death so we can be with Him and see all He has prepared for us.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>I wonder - should we change our perspective? Absolutely! Let’s be less concerned with the grain of sand and more concerned about the eternal impact we make for God while we have the opportunity - before our vapor disapears.</p> <p></font>Ecclesiastes 7:1 “A good name is better than precious ointment, <u>And the day of death than the day of one's birth.”</u> </p></font></i>Have a great day with the proper perspective!</font>Bill</font> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>P.I.G.</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:15:00 GMT</p> <p>For the past few Wednesday nights I have been challenged by a few of the young boys in our youth group to play a game that I played when I was young - P.I.G. That's the game where you shoot a basketball from somewhere on the court and, if you make it, the person following you has to make the same shot the same way. It's a little easier than its counterpart H.O.R.S.E. Needless to say I beat all four of the boys hands down two weeks ago. NO! I did not let those little boys win!!! I do have a little competitiveness in my blood (though not much). Then, this past Wednesday, I lost. A little 10 year old boy, Justin Coffey to be exact, destroyed me! I P.I.G.'ed out and he didn't even have a P. It didn't even take but about eight minutes until he had me crawling off the court with my tail between my legs.</p> <p>I've learned a lot from these boys. Danny, Ray, Austin, Justin - all of them - they love to win and they LOVE beating an adult at their own game. They are good at P.I.G. and they are good boys. I learned something else. Kids like to play games and they enjoy playing with adults. In fact, it makes them feel special. Funny how we see this at school and when they are involved in recreational sports like football, softball and soccer but we miss in at the church. We think church is just for the spiritual. Well, in a way, it is. Can P.I.G. be a spiritual thing? Even though I may get a little carnal out on the court, spending quality time with the boys and showing them that I love them is a very spiritual thing. </p> <p>I've worked with the children in church since I graduated high school. In fact, I spoke at a church on a Sunday night a couple weeks ago and the pastor of the church was in my Junior Boys Sunday School class and children's church over 20 years ago. I am so proud of him and the work he is doing for the kingdom. The trouble and struggles he gave me as well as all the time I spent with him were well worth it now that I see how God is using him. Amazing what level of impact we can have on those we minister to.</p> <p>I want to encourage every parent, grandparent and attender to get involved with the youth of the church in some way or another. It's one of the greatest and funnest ways to make an impact on a soul. They need us! They <strong>WANT</strong> us and our involvement in their lives. Today, say a special prayer for the young people of the church. School has begun and they need those passionate prayers as they traverse through the halls of our totally secular schools. Pray also for the teachers, youth pastors and workers who invest their time in their lives.</p> <p>Well, tonight will be another game of P.I.G. Watch out guys. I'm ready to beat your socks off!</p> <p>Have a great day!</p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>Time To Get Fit Part 2</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:44:00 GMT</p> <p>I'm back. Wow. Wasn't as bad as I thought. Probably need to get a new bicycle seat though (ouch). The prayer time was great. Several people waved, said Hi and even spoke to me. That surprised me! It took me 30 minutes to go the 5 miles. Is that good? Bad? I peddled the whole time.</p> <p>1Timothy 4:8 says, <i>"For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come."</i> Paul doesn't say "exercise is of no profit" so it must have benefit. I guess if I want to hang around this world and get as much as I can done for Christ, I should probably exercise as often as I can. I think I'll start out with riding the 5 miles every other day and increase from there.</p> <p>Setting priorities is always a challenge. Many times, our activities and interests set our priorities for us. A man, woman, boy or girl that is proactive and sets their own priorities will have greater success than those who don't - who go with the flow. I think I'll move exercise up on my priority list - but not too high. God, family and many other important things need to stay at the top.</p> <p>Well, I'm off to grab the peanut M&M's I used as an illustration in last nights sermon. Should be able to finish off the remainder of the 42 ounce bag I bought for $9.98 in less than half an hour! </p> <p>Have a great day!</p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>Time To Get Fit</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:45:00 GMT</p> <p>Well, I think the time has come!</p> <p>I have been hyper all my life. When I was a kid, they always said my brother, the docile one, would be the preacher of the family. They never said that about me. I couldn't stay in one place for more than a minute and I would dart to the next adventure. To this day, my mind travels faster and further than my body ever could.</p> <p>Enter 40 something! Still hyper and a little A.D.D. and O.C.D but the body is struggling to keep up. So, I've decided to day o commit to get fit (or at least try to). There are several of my friends on Facebook that are constantly bragging all the time: "I walked 4.5 miles today" or "Got my five mile run in this morning-feel great". I hate those people. But, I guess I should think seriously about my health and do something about it.</p> <p>So, I am going to ride my bike. Let's start with 5 miles. While I'm at it, I'm going to make it a prayer ride. I am going to pray using the PRAY acronym (P-Praise R-Repent A-Ask Y-Yield). OK. Her I go. I'll finish the blog when I get back. Hmmm... sure is hot out here. Pray for me that I don't get hit by a car or die of a heart attack!</p> </article> <article> <h1>In The Presence Of My Enemies</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:52:00 GMT</p> <p>Have you ever thought that you may one day be asked to be a martyr for the cause of Christ?</p> <p>I just finished the book <em>"In The Presence Of My Enemies"</em> by Gracia Burnham. Gracia and her husband Martin were missionaries for New Tribes Mission organization in the Philippines. It is the account of her and her husbands kidnapping at the hands of the Abu Sayyaf - an extremest Islamic terrorist group located in the Philippines with connections to Al Qaeda. For over a year, they endured hunger, hardship and even torture. They were among several others that were kidnapped while in the Dos Palmas resort in the southern Philippine islands. I encourage you to pick-up a copy and read it. It's one of those books you just can't put down.</p> <p>Reading this book brought tears to my eyes several times and reminded me of some of the statements Jesus made regarding the subjects of persecution and martyrdom. Matthew 5:10-12 says, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." It's mentioned in Matthew 24 and Luke 21 as well as many other passages. The majority of the apostles, including Paul, were martyred. Should we expect to confront this in our lifetime?</p> <p>Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (2006) says that an average of 171,000 Christians worldwide are martyred for their faith per year. <a href="http://www.persecution.com/" target="_blank">Voice Of The Martyrs</a> is constantly reporting on persecution and martyrdom around the world. Most American Christians have no idea of what many missionaries endure at the hands of those who literally hate the name of Christ. Distributing Bibles, having a church gathering, conducting a Bible study or just giving a cup of water in Jesus name can result in prison, torture or even death.</p> <p>Whenever I hear of another Christian going to his or her death because of Christ, I remember the story of Stephen and how Jesus stood up to welcome the first martyr and possibly first Christian to enter Heaven under the new covenant. As he gazed at Jesus standing by the Father awaiting his arrival, he fell asleep. I hope current day martyrs who have given their livelihood and their lives for the cause of Christ experience the same welcome.</p> <p>Is it coming? Will it happen here? In my opinion, it's getting closer every day and approaching more rapidly than ever before. Let's prepare ourselves, our children and our grandchildren for what lies ahead. Let's do all we can to make sure they stay true to Christ and the faith and don't become a statistic of 1 Timothy 4:1, "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith..."</p> <p>God Bless You!</p> <p>PB</p> <p>P.S. Take a moment and subscribe to this blog. You will see the "SUBSCRIBE" field in the column on the left.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Maturing as a Christian</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:05:00 GMT</p> <p>I turned 47 last week. I can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was in my 20's with all kinds of goals for the future. Amazing how fast time flies. In my mind, I am still in my 20's. But in my body, I can tell I am in my 40's. </p> <p>We all grow older. That's a given. The object is to not just to grow older but to <u>grow up</u>. This process is called maturity. As in life, so in our Christianity. God requires growth in our relationship to Christ, His word and His will. God wants us to mature. 2 Peter 3:18a says, <i>"but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." </i>God's plan for your life is that every day, you mature - you grow.</p> <p>Growth, healthy growth, brings fruit. It may take a recently planted young apple tree a few years before it generates enough apples of the right quality to be used in a pie. Growth and maturity take time. But, if we don't grow and put processes in action to continue that growth, nothing will happen. We may look like a healthy tree but, in actuality, we are not.</p> <p>Jesus passed by a fig tree one time that looked good but had no fruit on it. He stopped and cursed the tree. When He and the disciples came by later on, remarkably, the tree had withered and died. God wants fruit from our lives and in order to do that, we must grow at a healthy rate. He demands growth so He can enjoy our fruit.</p> <p>The primary menu item in the diet of spiritual growth is <u>reading the word of God</u>. Sorry, but there is no way around this one. You may think you'll do fine without it but I promise you won't. God developed this diet plan. It's not a church or pastoral recommendation. It's a directive from God himself. Take time - make time today to spend just 15 minutes or more in God's word.</p> <p>One of the darkest times in Christianity was due to a lack of the word of God and the pastors were making it up as they went along. You are so blessed to have a copy of God's word at your fingertips. Why not take time to soak in some juicy spiritual nutrition today. You'll be surprised what instantaneous growth you'll see. </p> <p>PB</p> </article> <article> <h1>Passionate Christianity</h1> <p>Pastor Bill — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:35:00 GMT</p> <p>This Sunday I will begin a series called Passionate Christianity. It is born out of my experiences this past week while on my mission trip to Costa Rica. The people there are so passionate about everything - especially worship.<br /></p> <p>Passion should be in every area of every Christians life as we serve our Savior. Lukewarm, mediocre worship, service or ministry is totally unacceptable. What should build our passion? Why be passionate? What does Godly Christian passion look like? Feel like? Act like? Sound like?<br /></p> <p>Feel free to chime in and comment me on thoughts you have about passion. Let's do this together and see God work amazingly in our lives.<br /></p> <p>PB</p> <p> </p> <p>** While you're here, why not subscribe to this blog. Over in the column on your right, there is an option to subscribe. Thank You! </p> </article> </main></body></html>