I am passionate about life change. In fact, I’d say right now there’s no greater joy in ministry, no greater blessing, no greater privilege than to see people cross over from death to life in Christ. With each new life I feel as if we’re taking one step closer to seeing the world change. Each new life represents HOPE and FREEDOM for the lost, poor, and needy. And right behind it, like a super close second, is watching people SERVE! Why?
You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.
John 13:13-15 NKJV
The verses up top explain everything.
#1 You call Me Teacher and Lord – Yes! I do! I believer God put on skin and came down to our level as Jesus Christ. He came to restore the broken and fragmented relationship we turned away from in the garden. I believe his words have AUTHORITY as well as HOPE! Because I call him Teacher I choose to follow him.
#2 You also ought to wash one another’s feet – No! Really!?! Why feet? Oh…that’s right…it’s humbling. A few weeks ago I taught at a lesson at Celebration Station on serving others, on giving back, AND it just happened to be on this verse. To model what it means to serve I actually washed the feet of those kids who were willing to be served (yes, some of us refuse Jesus’ help because we feel unworthy…reference Peter and his response). I can’t STAND feet, so it was a good reminder that SERVING requires HUMILITY. If I’m going to put others FIRST, as in BEFORE ME, I’ve got to be willing to swallow my pride and be humble.
#3 You should do as I have done to you – This verse should be the end of the story. I don’t know if we merely gloss over this verse or maybe we skip it or possibly suffer from temporary blindness when we get to it, but this verse paints the necessity of service clear as day (if you live in Seattle bear with me and imagine what a clear day looks like). Do for others as I have done for you. He doesn’t say YOU CAN or HERE’S A NEAT IDEA, he says YOU SHOULD.
One of the things I’ve come to realize as I chase after Jesus, is that if God says to do something, I don’t need to pray about it, I don't need to debate Him about it, I don’t need to think about it, (are you ready Nike?) I JUST DO IT!
Do you want to be like Jesus?
Do you want to love like Jesus?
Serve.
Don’t know how? Don’t know where to look? Don’t know what to do?
If you’re interested in SERVING, but don’t know where or how or what, start by checking out the page on New Life’s website “Volunteer Time & Skills,” fill out the form, and someone will be in touch with you.
Heck, find me. Hit me up on Twitter. Message me on Facebook. Leave a comment here on the blog. And I’ll help you. I’ll sit down with you. I’ll make time to get you where you want to go. I LOVE you and want to see the best for you!
Be a blessing to OTHERS and be blessed yourself! Serve.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Squirrels, Cars, and Recovery
While driving my youngest to school this morning a squirrel jumped out in front of the van. Now, ask anyone that’s been in the car with me and they’ll tell you, “Nick drives like a grandma,” whatever that means…I call it driving the speed limit, but ANYWAYS…I was able to slow down with enough time for the squirrel to make it across the road safely (aside from a possible fit of anxiety as this massive white thing was about to run it over).
And, like God so often does, He whispered, “That was you.”
And, like I so often do, I replied, “Huh?”
God then reminded me of the squirrel of frantically darts across the road, weaving in and out of traffic, dodging cars and trucks, simply trying to make it to the other side (much like the chicken). But every once in a while there’s a squirrel, that for whatever reason, right before it makes it to the other side, right on the edge of reaching its destination, it stops, turns around, and runs back.
“That was you, Nick.”
I’d like to suggest that is not only me, but it’s YOU…it’s ALL of us! We WANT to get better. We WANT to get unstuck. We WANT to be free. So we walk through the doors of a church or the doctor’s office or the rehab or Celebrate Recovery with EVERY INTENTION of doing it! Then, at the last possible moment, something happens, something sparks a sense of doubt, and we TURN BACK.
That’s the squirrel that gets hit by the car.
That’s the squirrel whose life ends before it really begins.
That’s you.
That’s me.
Don’t give up. Don’t turn away. Don’t go back to old habits, old hurts, old feelings of bitterness and resentment. Don’t go back to what’s comfortable (and by comfortable I’m not talking about “feel good” I’m talking about “It’s what I’ve always known”).
Instead of turning back to the very thing that sent you across the road, KEEP RUNNING FORWARD! Work your program! Keep going to group! Take your medicine! Don’t look at what’s coming, don’t look at what was; keep looking straight ahead at the GOAL, the DESTINATION!
Hesitate and you’ll die.
Recovery is that serious.
And, like God so often does, He whispered, “That was you.”
And, like I so often do, I replied, “Huh?”
God then reminded me of the squirrel of frantically darts across the road, weaving in and out of traffic, dodging cars and trucks, simply trying to make it to the other side (much like the chicken). But every once in a while there’s a squirrel, that for whatever reason, right before it makes it to the other side, right on the edge of reaching its destination, it stops, turns around, and runs back.
“That was you, Nick.”
I’d like to suggest that is not only me, but it’s YOU…it’s ALL of us! We WANT to get better. We WANT to get unstuck. We WANT to be free. So we walk through the doors of a church or the doctor’s office or the rehab or Celebrate Recovery with EVERY INTENTION of doing it! Then, at the last possible moment, something happens, something sparks a sense of doubt, and we TURN BACK.
That’s the squirrel that gets hit by the car.
That’s the squirrel whose life ends before it really begins.
That’s you.
That’s me.
Don’t give up. Don’t turn away. Don’t go back to old habits, old hurts, old feelings of bitterness and resentment. Don’t go back to what’s comfortable (and by comfortable I’m not talking about “feel good” I’m talking about “It’s what I’ve always known”).
Instead of turning back to the very thing that sent you across the road, KEEP RUNNING FORWARD! Work your program! Keep going to group! Take your medicine! Don’t look at what’s coming, don’t look at what was; keep looking straight ahead at the GOAL, the DESTINATION!
Hesitate and you’ll die.
Recovery is that serious.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Is This What Church is Supposed to Be Like?
I didn’t grow up in the church. In fact, I think my only experience with church as a child was the occasional holiday visit to St. James Cathedral in Seattle, WA (i.e. Easter and Christmas Eve). So, working in a church as an adult, I don’t have a traditional background to turn to in order to ensure I’m doing church “right.” I don’t understand church politics (oxymoron?). I don’t understand tradition. I don’t understand the rules. I don’t fully grasp the do’s and don’ts. There’s a LOT I don’t get…stuff that just doesn’t make sense to me.
This has led to me forming an almost cynical view of the church. I think sometimes we get so caught up in making sure our own little world is all neat, tidy, pretty, and clean that we neglect THE world, the bigness and vastness of the world. We’re like a horse with blinders on. We can’t see to our left, to our right, behind, or around us…our vision is NARROW and focused on just a SMALL piece of God’s glory. We treat each area, each component, each ministry, each program of the church like a puzzle piece. We cut it and shape it and make sure it fits nicely in place…no rough edges please, no surprises please…that doesn’t look right so please try putting it somewhere else, like down the road.
We’re disconnected. Fractured. We cry from the stage or pulpit or wherever it is we speak from for UNITY and COMMUNITY…yet churches are divided, separate, competing with one another instead of working with one another. Again, narrow focus. My area. My people. My place. My thing. You stay there. I’ll stay here. We’re no different than dogs urinating all over the yard to say, “This is MINE! Stay OUT!”
To me, this doesn’t make sense.
To me, this is the opposite of God’s plan for His Son’s bride (Ephesians 4:1-16).
To me, this replaces the C with a c (THE Church vs. MY church).
To me, this limits the potential of the local church to bring about change.
Am I missing something?
Is this how church is supposed to be?
Maybe it’s because I didn’t grow up in church, but this seems more like the bride has ran away from the altar.
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering who’s left MY church to attend YOUR church?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering what the other party wants?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering how to promote the next program?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of pretending to pursue Jesus?
It seems to me if the local churches were truly pursuing Christ, it would be TOGETHER, not apart. If we, as the bride of Christ, are unable to come together to make a difference in this community, your community, who will? Again, I didn’t grow up in the church, so maybe I’m missing something. Are we supposed to take a backseat while some OTHER organization rises up to take the lead? I thought the church was about life change, not marking property lines and maintaining attendance.
If this is how church is SUPPOSED to be…then I don’t want it.
If this is church TRADITION…then I don’t want it.
If this is the PURPOSE of the church…then I don’t want it.
If Jesus isn’t the HEAD of the body…it’s dead (John 4:14).
But…then again…I’m still new to the game. Maybe I simply haven’t been properly “assimilated” to church culture. Maybe Jesus didn’t really come for the sick. Maybe Jesus really did come so I could get mine and you could get yours. Maybe it’s about building MY kingdom.
Or…
What if God entrusted His perfect plan to imperfect people and somewhere along the line we’ve made mistakes, we’ve messed some things up, we’ve lost sight of what He intended? If that’s the case, then let’s ADMIT IT and start working TOGETHER to make some changes, make some renovations, let’s build the church into the Church and see REVIVAL resound across the globe.
THAT’S something I can get behind.
Let’s BE the difference.
This has led to me forming an almost cynical view of the church. I think sometimes we get so caught up in making sure our own little world is all neat, tidy, pretty, and clean that we neglect THE world, the bigness and vastness of the world. We’re like a horse with blinders on. We can’t see to our left, to our right, behind, or around us…our vision is NARROW and focused on just a SMALL piece of God’s glory. We treat each area, each component, each ministry, each program of the church like a puzzle piece. We cut it and shape it and make sure it fits nicely in place…no rough edges please, no surprises please…that doesn’t look right so please try putting it somewhere else, like down the road.
We’re disconnected. Fractured. We cry from the stage or pulpit or wherever it is we speak from for UNITY and COMMUNITY…yet churches are divided, separate, competing with one another instead of working with one another. Again, narrow focus. My area. My people. My place. My thing. You stay there. I’ll stay here. We’re no different than dogs urinating all over the yard to say, “This is MINE! Stay OUT!”
To me, this doesn’t make sense.
To me, this is the opposite of God’s plan for His Son’s bride (Ephesians 4:1-16).
To me, this replaces the C with a c (THE Church vs. MY church).
To me, this limits the potential of the local church to bring about change.
Am I missing something?
Is this how church is supposed to be?
Maybe it’s because I didn’t grow up in church, but this seems more like the bride has ran away from the altar.
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering who’s left MY church to attend YOUR church?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering what the other party wants?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of wondering how to promote the next program?
What would happen if local churches started working TOGETHER instead of pretending to pursue Jesus?
It seems to me if the local churches were truly pursuing Christ, it would be TOGETHER, not apart. If we, as the bride of Christ, are unable to come together to make a difference in this community, your community, who will? Again, I didn’t grow up in the church, so maybe I’m missing something. Are we supposed to take a backseat while some OTHER organization rises up to take the lead? I thought the church was about life change, not marking property lines and maintaining attendance.
If this is how church is SUPPOSED to be…then I don’t want it.
If this is church TRADITION…then I don’t want it.
If this is the PURPOSE of the church…then I don’t want it.
If Jesus isn’t the HEAD of the body…it’s dead (John 4:14).
But…then again…I’m still new to the game. Maybe I simply haven’t been properly “assimilated” to church culture. Maybe Jesus didn’t really come for the sick. Maybe Jesus really did come so I could get mine and you could get yours. Maybe it’s about building MY kingdom.
Or…
What if God entrusted His perfect plan to imperfect people and somewhere along the line we’ve made mistakes, we’ve messed some things up, we’ve lost sight of what He intended? If that’s the case, then let’s ADMIT IT and start working TOGETHER to make some changes, make some renovations, let’s build the church into the Church and see REVIVAL resound across the globe.
THAT’S something I can get behind.
Let’s BE the difference.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who celebrates recovery from drugs, alcohol, and pornography and currently struggles with codependency and pride.
LAST WEEK:
Who DOESN’T love testimony night (rhetorical question)? I almost ask that as a declarative statement…possibly with an ! at the end. Seriously, to the hear the story of HOPE found in trusting God, not just with my eternity, but with my daily struggles…that NEVER gets old! I applaud my dear friend Johnny for taking to the stage, not to sing, but to guide us through his lifelong struggle with schizophrenia. It took a lot of courage to open up like that, to get vulnerable, and allow us to revisit some of the scariest times of his life.
I’m blown away week after week as I hear story after story of God doing what only He can do…the miracle of life change…transformation. Johnny has EVERY reason to smile, EVERY reason to celebrate, EVERY reason to sing and proclaim his faith and gratitude for Jesus. Wasn’t his song awesome?! (notice this time I added the !). Here’s a peak at the lyrics in case you missed it:
And this is my testimony
This is my song of victory
This is my triumphant story
Because of Jesus
I overcome
THIS WEEK:
Once again taking to the helm, once again leading us through the biblical truths of recovery, Steve (@smparrill) will guide us through one of my FAVORITE lessons: YES.
“Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires.”
Matthew 5:10
Really? Really? Why the heck do I want that? Don’t you know what I’ve gone through? I don’t have to imagine what rock bottom looks like…I’ve BEEN THERE! I know what it means to leave my family. I know what it means to abandon my wife…my kids…my friends…my job. I know what it means to hurt and hurt so bad that it’s a struggle to open my eyes, let alone get out of bed. Why in the world would I want to be PERSECUTED? Great question!
God doesn’t promise an EASY life. God doesn’t promise HAPPINESS! God doesn’t promise rainbows and unicorns! God promises to BLESS you, to PROSPER you, to SAVE you, to REDEEM you, to SET YOU FREE! Somewhere in midst of all that good stuff He’s going to do, you’re going to face tough times because Jesus is offensive to those who don’t know him. Friends will laugh. Family will roll their eyes. People won’t understand. In spite of that, we do what He wants…because we CHOOSE to follow Him. I LOVE this lesson because we ALL need to yield to God, lead by example, and SERVE others! That’s the 12th Step! Give back! Share the message of HOPE with others!
Make time to come out this Friday at 7p and experience the grace, hope, mercy, forgiveness, and love of Christ!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are things I want you praying for, thinking about, talking about and spreading around!
#1 3 Year Anniversary Celebration—On Friday, December 14, we’ll be celebrating THREE YEARS of hope, healing, and life change at Celebrate Recovery! Come out and celebrate the goodness and richness of God’s love and grace as experienced and live out by those who HAVE BEEN and CURRENTLY ARE working the 12 Steps and 8 Principles. If you’re not currently attending or participating at Celebrate Recovery…I want to invite you to come out and be an encouragement to THOSE PEOPLE! It’s called CELEBRATE Recovery for a reason! God’s given us EVERY reason to scream, to shout, to dance, and to sing! Mark your calendars; it’ll be a night to remember!
#2 Celebration Station & The Landing—We’re so close to the launch date for these programs (January 4, 2013). I’m BEYOND excited! I don’t want to lose our kids! I don’t want to see our students waste their lives making the same choices I did. Let’s join together and PRAY for our leaders, pray for our children, pray for our students, pray God equips us with the ability and wisdom to lead and guide our families to a BETTER life!
#3 Recovery Cards—Each week, inserted nice and neat in the program, is an almost bookmark lookin’ sheet of paper called the Recovery Card. This is our way, as leaders of the program, to connect with you, to get a feel for who you are, what you’re going through, pray for you, help you get plugged in to a Step Study or possibly serving. Make sure you take the time each week to fill this out so I can personally pray for you…it’s actually the GREATEST gift I can give you. AND at the bottom of the Recovery Card is a perforated invite card to give to someone during the week, to share the HOPE of Jesus, to share the FREEDOM found at Celebrate Recovery.
THE END:
My time with the kids, at least on a regular week-to-week basis, is slowly coming to an end. Very soon I’ll be back out with my friends and family in the Large Group and I CAN’T WAIT to see y’all again! And who knows, maybe even get back up there with the band. Today, remember God’s grace is REAL and AVAILABLE for the taking! He’s offered up EVERYTHING we could possibly need AND…it’s free! I love you CR! See you on Friday night!
LAST WEEK:
Who DOESN’T love testimony night (rhetorical question)? I almost ask that as a declarative statement…possibly with an ! at the end. Seriously, to the hear the story of HOPE found in trusting God, not just with my eternity, but with my daily struggles…that NEVER gets old! I applaud my dear friend Johnny for taking to the stage, not to sing, but to guide us through his lifelong struggle with schizophrenia. It took a lot of courage to open up like that, to get vulnerable, and allow us to revisit some of the scariest times of his life.
I’m blown away week after week as I hear story after story of God doing what only He can do…the miracle of life change…transformation. Johnny has EVERY reason to smile, EVERY reason to celebrate, EVERY reason to sing and proclaim his faith and gratitude for Jesus. Wasn’t his song awesome?! (notice this time I added the !). Here’s a peak at the lyrics in case you missed it:
And this is my testimony
This is my song of victory
This is my triumphant story
Because of Jesus
I overcome
THIS WEEK:
Once again taking to the helm, once again leading us through the biblical truths of recovery, Steve (@smparrill) will guide us through one of my FAVORITE lessons: YES.
“Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires.”
Matthew 5:10
Really? Really? Why the heck do I want that? Don’t you know what I’ve gone through? I don’t have to imagine what rock bottom looks like…I’ve BEEN THERE! I know what it means to leave my family. I know what it means to abandon my wife…my kids…my friends…my job. I know what it means to hurt and hurt so bad that it’s a struggle to open my eyes, let alone get out of bed. Why in the world would I want to be PERSECUTED? Great question!
God doesn’t promise an EASY life. God doesn’t promise HAPPINESS! God doesn’t promise rainbows and unicorns! God promises to BLESS you, to PROSPER you, to SAVE you, to REDEEM you, to SET YOU FREE! Somewhere in midst of all that good stuff He’s going to do, you’re going to face tough times because Jesus is offensive to those who don’t know him. Friends will laugh. Family will roll their eyes. People won’t understand. In spite of that, we do what He wants…because we CHOOSE to follow Him. I LOVE this lesson because we ALL need to yield to God, lead by example, and SERVE others! That’s the 12th Step! Give back! Share the message of HOPE with others!
Make time to come out this Friday at 7p and experience the grace, hope, mercy, forgiveness, and love of Christ!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are things I want you praying for, thinking about, talking about and spreading around!
#1 3 Year Anniversary Celebration—On Friday, December 14, we’ll be celebrating THREE YEARS of hope, healing, and life change at Celebrate Recovery! Come out and celebrate the goodness and richness of God’s love and grace as experienced and live out by those who HAVE BEEN and CURRENTLY ARE working the 12 Steps and 8 Principles. If you’re not currently attending or participating at Celebrate Recovery…I want to invite you to come out and be an encouragement to THOSE PEOPLE! It’s called CELEBRATE Recovery for a reason! God’s given us EVERY reason to scream, to shout, to dance, and to sing! Mark your calendars; it’ll be a night to remember!
#2 Celebration Station & The Landing—We’re so close to the launch date for these programs (January 4, 2013). I’m BEYOND excited! I don’t want to lose our kids! I don’t want to see our students waste their lives making the same choices I did. Let’s join together and PRAY for our leaders, pray for our children, pray for our students, pray God equips us with the ability and wisdom to lead and guide our families to a BETTER life!
#3 Recovery Cards—Each week, inserted nice and neat in the program, is an almost bookmark lookin’ sheet of paper called the Recovery Card. This is our way, as leaders of the program, to connect with you, to get a feel for who you are, what you’re going through, pray for you, help you get plugged in to a Step Study or possibly serving. Make sure you take the time each week to fill this out so I can personally pray for you…it’s actually the GREATEST gift I can give you. AND at the bottom of the Recovery Card is a perforated invite card to give to someone during the week, to share the HOPE of Jesus, to share the FREEDOM found at Celebrate Recovery.
THE END:
My time with the kids, at least on a regular week-to-week basis, is slowly coming to an end. Very soon I’ll be back out with my friends and family in the Large Group and I CAN’T WAIT to see y’all again! And who knows, maybe even get back up there with the band. Today, remember God’s grace is REAL and AVAILABLE for the taking! He’s offered up EVERYTHING we could possibly need AND…it’s free! I love you CR! See you on Friday night!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Set List 11.23/25.12
TESTIMONY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Me and Jesus—Stellar Kart
Forgiveness—Matthew West
With Us—Hillsong Live
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
My Testimony—John Hamman
SERIES: LOVE LIKE JESUS
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Alive in Us—Hillsong Live
You Revive Me—Christy Nockels
The Stand—Hillsong United
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Me and Jesus—Stellar Kart
Forgiveness—Matthew West
With Us—Hillsong Live
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
My Testimony—John Hamman
SERIES: LOVE LIKE JESUS
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Alive in Us—Hillsong Live
You Revive Me—Christy Nockels
The Stand—Hillsong United
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Be the Difference
VICTORIES shared.
I know what you’re thinking. You’re asking, “Nick, there’s 2 other points, 2 other letters before V…why did you skip them?” Alright, let’s be honest here (thank you @brandant for this phrase), most of you have NO CLUE what I’m talking about…so, here’s a quick backstory:
Friday night at Celebrate Recovery @smparrill shared a lesson titled GIVE. Each letter represents a point, a catchphrase to lead and guide us, and to help us remember HOW TO give.
God first
I becomes we
Victories shared
Example of our actions
I skipped the first 2. I’m leaving out the last one. I’m focusing on #3…my FAVORITE (after all, it is my blog)!
Ok. Let’s do this again. VICTORIES shared! LOVE it! I’m not sure where I’d be exactly had I NOT heard the stories of those men, sitting in a circle, sharing opening, freely, honestly. The raw emotion instantly led to barriers crumbling within me. I found HOPE in their stories. I found HOPE in their victories.
There’s POWER in your story!
There’s FREEDOM in your experiences!
Someone NEEDS to hear your story!
God didn’t give you a gift so you could hoard it, no! He wants you to SHARE it!
Be the difference in someone’s life.
I know what you’re thinking. You’re asking, “Nick, there’s 2 other points, 2 other letters before V…why did you skip them?” Alright, let’s be honest here (thank you @brandant for this phrase), most of you have NO CLUE what I’m talking about…so, here’s a quick backstory:
Friday night at Celebrate Recovery @smparrill shared a lesson titled GIVE. Each letter represents a point, a catchphrase to lead and guide us, and to help us remember HOW TO give.
God first
I becomes we
Victories shared
Example of our actions
I skipped the first 2. I’m leaving out the last one. I’m focusing on #3…my FAVORITE (after all, it is my blog)!
Ok. Let’s do this again. VICTORIES shared! LOVE it! I’m not sure where I’d be exactly had I NOT heard the stories of those men, sitting in a circle, sharing opening, freely, honestly. The raw emotion instantly led to barriers crumbling within me. I found HOPE in their stories. I found HOPE in their victories.
There’s POWER in your story!
There’s FREEDOM in your experiences!
Someone NEEDS to hear your story!
God didn’t give you a gift so you could hoard it, no! He wants you to SHARE it!
Be the difference in someone’s life.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who’s celebrating recovery from pride and codependency!
LAST WEEK:
What does it mean to GIVE? This was a question I had (and still sometimes ask) 3 years ago when I first walked through the doors of Celebrate Recovery. I was selfish. I was distant. I was fearful. I was untrusting. I was dependent upon everything BUT God. What COULD I give? I only knew what it meant to consume, to take, to keep. GIVE?
BIG thanks to Steve (@smparrill) for clearing the air and bringing some light to this subject. This past Friday he shared with our Celebrate Recovery family what it means to GIVE.
#1 God first
#2 I becomes we
#3 Victories shared
#4 Example of your actions
For us to make that transition from TAKERS to GIVERS, we gotta make some changes, or, better said, allow GOD to make some changes IN us! This becomes easier and easier as we begin to realize God wants something FOR us, not FROM us (Jeremiah 29:11). We can’t do it alone! We’ve tried! That’s what got us here in the first place! Are you ready to let God have HIS way in you? Are you ready to surrender to HIS will? What will it be?
THIS WEEK:
I’m so EXCITED for this week! This Friday is testimony night! My good friend Johnny is going to take us on a frightening journey through the perplexing world of schizophrenia and how TRUST in God has continued to help him through it. Johnny’s story is a reminder that regardless of your circumstances, God is GREATER and He’s ABLE to bring you through it! Whether you’re struggling with drugs and alcohol, buried in financial troubles, or recovering from divorce, you will find HOPE in his story.
NEWS AND UPDATES:
LOTS of stuff happening in and around Celebrate Recovery…but here are the 2 things I want you to REALLY pay attention to:
#1 Thanksgiving Dinner – Thursday, November 22, at 4p we are serving Thanksgiving Dinner to the ENTIRE community! That’s right! So, if you know a family that is struggling, if you know a single parent who might not be able to afford Thanksgiving, if you know someone who will be alone, if you know someone who knows someone who knows someone else…INVITE THEM! I want to see the building filled with people from around the community. Let’s share a bit of the HOPE we’ve found in Jesus and LOVE this community! Immediately following dinner we’ll turn on the projector to watch a movie while desserts are set out. It’s going to be an AWESOME night! Start inviting people TODAY! Also, if you’re interested in bringing a side dish (which would be GREAT!), email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or call 304.262.6522 and let me know what you’ll be bringing with you.
#2 Celebration Station and The Landing – I am blown away by the response of our CR family and New Life! People don’t want to lose our younger generations! They want to make a difference…or, as Pastor Jim said this past week…BE the difference! What would’ve happened if someone had come up alongside you as a child or student and shared with you the TRUTH of God’s word and the FREEDOM that can be found in Christ? What would’ve happened if you learned how to build healthy, open, and honest relationships with others? You CAN! We are still looking for volunteer leaders for both Celebration Station and The Landing. If interested, you can email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or sign up Friday night on your Recovery Card.
THE END:
CR, I LOVE you and can’t wait to see you Thursday (Thanksgiving Dinner) and then Friday (Celebrate Recovery)! AWESOME that we get to spend more time together this week!
LAST WEEK:
What does it mean to GIVE? This was a question I had (and still sometimes ask) 3 years ago when I first walked through the doors of Celebrate Recovery. I was selfish. I was distant. I was fearful. I was untrusting. I was dependent upon everything BUT God. What COULD I give? I only knew what it meant to consume, to take, to keep. GIVE?
BIG thanks to Steve (@smparrill) for clearing the air and bringing some light to this subject. This past Friday he shared with our Celebrate Recovery family what it means to GIVE.
#1 God first
#2 I becomes we
#3 Victories shared
#4 Example of your actions
For us to make that transition from TAKERS to GIVERS, we gotta make some changes, or, better said, allow GOD to make some changes IN us! This becomes easier and easier as we begin to realize God wants something FOR us, not FROM us (Jeremiah 29:11). We can’t do it alone! We’ve tried! That’s what got us here in the first place! Are you ready to let God have HIS way in you? Are you ready to surrender to HIS will? What will it be?
THIS WEEK:
I’m so EXCITED for this week! This Friday is testimony night! My good friend Johnny is going to take us on a frightening journey through the perplexing world of schizophrenia and how TRUST in God has continued to help him through it. Johnny’s story is a reminder that regardless of your circumstances, God is GREATER and He’s ABLE to bring you through it! Whether you’re struggling with drugs and alcohol, buried in financial troubles, or recovering from divorce, you will find HOPE in his story.
NEWS AND UPDATES:
LOTS of stuff happening in and around Celebrate Recovery…but here are the 2 things I want you to REALLY pay attention to:
#1 Thanksgiving Dinner – Thursday, November 22, at 4p we are serving Thanksgiving Dinner to the ENTIRE community! That’s right! So, if you know a family that is struggling, if you know a single parent who might not be able to afford Thanksgiving, if you know someone who will be alone, if you know someone who knows someone who knows someone else…INVITE THEM! I want to see the building filled with people from around the community. Let’s share a bit of the HOPE we’ve found in Jesus and LOVE this community! Immediately following dinner we’ll turn on the projector to watch a movie while desserts are set out. It’s going to be an AWESOME night! Start inviting people TODAY! Also, if you’re interested in bringing a side dish (which would be GREAT!), email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or call 304.262.6522 and let me know what you’ll be bringing with you.
#2 Celebration Station and The Landing – I am blown away by the response of our CR family and New Life! People don’t want to lose our younger generations! They want to make a difference…or, as Pastor Jim said this past week…BE the difference! What would’ve happened if someone had come up alongside you as a child or student and shared with you the TRUTH of God’s word and the FREEDOM that can be found in Christ? What would’ve happened if you learned how to build healthy, open, and honest relationships with others? You CAN! We are still looking for volunteer leaders for both Celebration Station and The Landing. If interested, you can email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or sign up Friday night on your Recovery Card.
THE END:
CR, I LOVE you and can’t wait to see you Thursday (Thanksgiving Dinner) and then Friday (Celebrate Recovery)! AWESOME that we get to spend more time together this week!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Set List 11.16-18.12
LESSON: GIVE
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Beautiful Things—Gungor
Marvelous Light—Charlie Hall
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Came to My Rescue—Hillsong United
15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Dinner Banquet: Saturday 5:30p
Like a Lion—David Crowder* Band
Christ is Risen—Matt Maher
Nothing But the Blood—Jesus Culture
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
The Church—Elevation Worship
All Because of Jesus—Fee
SERIES: LOVE LIKE JESUS
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
All Because of Jesus—Fee
Your Great Name—Natalie Grant
With Us—Hillsong Live
To Our God—Bethel Live
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Beautiful Things—Gungor
Marvelous Light—Charlie Hall
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Came to My Rescue—Hillsong United
15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Dinner Banquet: Saturday 5:30p
Like a Lion—David Crowder* Band
Christ is Risen—Matt Maher
Nothing But the Blood—Jesus Culture
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
The Church—Elevation Worship
All Because of Jesus—Fee
SERIES: LOVE LIKE JESUS
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
All Because of Jesus—Fee
Your Great Name—Natalie Grant
With Us—Hillsong Live
To Our God—Bethel Live
Friday, November 16, 2012
God, Can We Reschedule?
This morning I sat on my couch, put my feet out, and planned to open up YouVersion, pray, and read Scripture. The kids, well at least 2 out of 3, were at the table eating breakfast. I had already packed Isaiah’s lunch. My wife’s coffee was made (this time NOT by me…I don’t think). Everything was done. All the OTHER things of the morning had been accomplished. No more stress. No more worry. Just me and God. Just me and God. Just me and God…oh look a notification on Facebook…
Yup, that’s how it all went down. I had every intention of working on my relationship with God, but instead, chose to catch up on the lives of the people around me. After wasting a few minutes on Facebook, I noticed I had a few unread emails…I better check those! A few minutes later emails were all checked. What was I going to do? Was I going to tweet something? I don’t remember…oh yeah! Me and God. Me and God.
How many of your mornings are like this? How much time do you spend getting ready? Preparing breakfast? Making lunches? Laying out clothes? Checking homework? Making sure teeth are brushed? Browsing Facebook? Playing a word?
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Exodus 20:3 KJV
Bustin’ out the King James for this one! God doesn’t want our seconds. God doesn’t want our leftovers. God wants our BEST! God wants to be FIRST! Sure, we ALL have responsibilities in the morning. We ALL need to be somewhere or go somewhere or do something, BUT, why can’t God be first? We make time for EVERYTHING ELSE and then toss up a quick prayer to God while driving because…oops, forgot to do this, let me do it right quick.
Stop staying up late,
Stop hitting snooze,
Stop grasping of those few extra minutes of sleep,
Stop sleeping in,
Stop grabbing your phone,
Stop making excuses,
And start praying.
Put God FIRST. Give Him PRIORITY. Let’s do it together.
Yup, that’s how it all went down. I had every intention of working on my relationship with God, but instead, chose to catch up on the lives of the people around me. After wasting a few minutes on Facebook, I noticed I had a few unread emails…I better check those! A few minutes later emails were all checked. What was I going to do? Was I going to tweet something? I don’t remember…oh yeah! Me and God. Me and God.
How many of your mornings are like this? How much time do you spend getting ready? Preparing breakfast? Making lunches? Laying out clothes? Checking homework? Making sure teeth are brushed? Browsing Facebook? Playing a word?
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Exodus 20:3 KJV
Bustin’ out the King James for this one! God doesn’t want our seconds. God doesn’t want our leftovers. God wants our BEST! God wants to be FIRST! Sure, we ALL have responsibilities in the morning. We ALL need to be somewhere or go somewhere or do something, BUT, why can’t God be first? We make time for EVERYTHING ELSE and then toss up a quick prayer to God while driving because…oops, forgot to do this, let me do it right quick.
Stop staying up late,
Stop hitting snooze,
Stop grasping of those few extra minutes of sleep,
Stop sleeping in,
Stop grabbing your phone,
Stop making excuses,
And start praying.
Put God FIRST. Give Him PRIORITY. Let’s do it together.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
2013 Brings a NEW Celebrate Recovery to New Life
I LOVE Celebrate Recovery!
Let me say that again…
I LOVE Celebrate Recovery!
I’m not talking about that kinda love where you go, “You know, if I’ve got some free time this week, I should stop by there.” No! I’m talking about that kinda love where you MAKE TIME to be there, like something is GETTING DROPPED ‘cause you KNOW you can’t miss it! That’s what I’m talking about. I’m not talking about that kinda love where people say, “He’s drank the Kool-aid.” No! I’m talking about that kinda love where you’ve bought a life-time supply of the concentrate! That’s what’s up!
Why? I believe Celebrate Recovery directs us to the answer for ALL of life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. I don’t care if you’re recovering from a divorce, suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), buried in a gambling addiction, the victim of sexual/ physical/ emotional abuse, frustrated because you can’t fix people, seeking affirmation and acceptance through pleasing everyone you know, or even caught up in drugs and alcohol…it doesn’t matter, Celebrate Recovery is for you. BUT, please let me be clear, Celebrate Recovery is NOT the answer, the program merely POINTS TO the answer…
and his name is Jesus. True story.
It’s not hype. It’s HOPE. I have personally experience freedom from past hurts resulting from physical and sexual abuse, freedom from compulsive behaviors related to drugs, alcohol, and pornography, and I’m currently learning how to develop healthy relationships by working on my codependency.
Because I’ve EXPERIENCED it and KNOW what it can do, I am so freakin’ EXCITED for the launch of Celebration Station and The Landing on Friday, January 4, 2013!!! Like my head is gonna explode! It’s been in discussion since our initial launch in December 2009 and is FINALLY becoming a reality!
Celebration Station is Celebrate Recovery only translated into kid language. So, our children will be learning healthy coping skills to deal with life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups…we call it PRE-covery! Every Friday night our kids will eat dinner together, building community with one another, spend time in activity centers, dance, sing, and even take a few moments to journal and share with their friends. The kids that graduate this program (PreK5-5th) WILL BE the next leaders in our churches, in our homes, and in our communities!
The Landing is Celebrate Recovery only translated into student language. This means our students will be engaging the same material as the adults and kids! EVERYONE will be learning the same things at the same time…fostering an environment of openness and discussion within the family. The Landing gets students up out of their chairs through an awesome time of worship, hilarious skits from the Skit Guys, and activities designed to build bridges from unforgettable experiences to unforgettable truths. Be prepared for students to take over the building as they discover HEALTH and PURPOSE in their lives; they WILL lead the way!
For more information on both Celebration Station and The Landing please visit New Life Community Church this Sunday (Nov 18) for an informative meeting where you’ll be able to explore the program, meet the launch teams, and ask any questions you might have. The meetings will take place at 9:45a and 11:15a.
I would be SO AWESOME if you could make it.
Take a moment and watch this video on Celebration Station…
Take a moment and watch this video on The Landing…
Let me say that again…
I LOVE Celebrate Recovery!
I’m not talking about that kinda love where you go, “You know, if I’ve got some free time this week, I should stop by there.” No! I’m talking about that kinda love where you MAKE TIME to be there, like something is GETTING DROPPED ‘cause you KNOW you can’t miss it! That’s what I’m talking about. I’m not talking about that kinda love where people say, “He’s drank the Kool-aid.” No! I’m talking about that kinda love where you’ve bought a life-time supply of the concentrate! That’s what’s up!
Why? I believe Celebrate Recovery directs us to the answer for ALL of life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. I don’t care if you’re recovering from a divorce, suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), buried in a gambling addiction, the victim of sexual/ physical/ emotional abuse, frustrated because you can’t fix people, seeking affirmation and acceptance through pleasing everyone you know, or even caught up in drugs and alcohol…it doesn’t matter, Celebrate Recovery is for you. BUT, please let me be clear, Celebrate Recovery is NOT the answer, the program merely POINTS TO the answer…
and his name is Jesus. True story.
It’s not hype. It’s HOPE. I have personally experience freedom from past hurts resulting from physical and sexual abuse, freedom from compulsive behaviors related to drugs, alcohol, and pornography, and I’m currently learning how to develop healthy relationships by working on my codependency.
Because I’ve EXPERIENCED it and KNOW what it can do, I am so freakin’ EXCITED for the launch of Celebration Station and The Landing on Friday, January 4, 2013!!! Like my head is gonna explode! It’s been in discussion since our initial launch in December 2009 and is FINALLY becoming a reality!
Celebration Station is Celebrate Recovery only translated into kid language. So, our children will be learning healthy coping skills to deal with life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups…we call it PRE-covery! Every Friday night our kids will eat dinner together, building community with one another, spend time in activity centers, dance, sing, and even take a few moments to journal and share with their friends. The kids that graduate this program (PreK5-5th) WILL BE the next leaders in our churches, in our homes, and in our communities!
The Landing is Celebrate Recovery only translated into student language. This means our students will be engaging the same material as the adults and kids! EVERYONE will be learning the same things at the same time…fostering an environment of openness and discussion within the family. The Landing gets students up out of their chairs through an awesome time of worship, hilarious skits from the Skit Guys, and activities designed to build bridges from unforgettable experiences to unforgettable truths. Be prepared for students to take over the building as they discover HEALTH and PURPOSE in their lives; they WILL lead the way!
For more information on both Celebration Station and The Landing please visit New Life Community Church this Sunday (Nov 18) for an informative meeting where you’ll be able to explore the program, meet the launch teams, and ask any questions you might have. The meetings will take place at 9:45a and 11:15a.
I would be SO AWESOME if you could make it.
Take a moment and watch this video on Celebration Station…
Take a moment and watch this video on The Landing…
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Focusing on the Problem Only Makes it Harder
The addict asks, “Is this as good as it gets?” as the needle enters his vein.
The wife says, “I’m just not attracted to him anymore,” as she picks up Fifty Shades of Grey.
The father asks, “Will I ever have time for my family?” while working late yet again this week.
The mother screams, “Why won’t my kids listen to me?!?” while browsing Pinterest.
The husband thinks to himself, “She’s changed so much,” as he clicks his favorite porn site.
The daughter asks, “Will they ever understand me?” while she cuts her arm.
The son asks, “Will they notice I'm gone?” as he takes the last pill.
Why do we do the things we don’t want to do?
Why do we refuse to do the things we know we should?
Why?
I ask these questions, but I do it simply for effect. Thanks to Paul’s openness, thanks to Paul’s willingness to be real, I already have the answer (and so can you). Grab your Bible and open to Romans chapter 7. Start reading at verse 14. Read it. Stop once you’ve read through verse 20.
Paul didn’t ask these questions; he confessed his struggles. He knew he wasn’t doing what he should and continued doing what he shouldn’t. BUT, doesn’t stop there. He doesn’t simply confess his struggles, he identifies the ROOT OF THE PROBLEM…obviously Paul had successfully completed a Step Study.
Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Romans 7:20 NIV84
We’ve ALL got this problem called SIN. Don’t be afraid to say it. It’s offensive because it’s true and sometimes the truth hurts. Well, I don’t like that word…Jesus had to die because of it, something tells me he doesn’t like it either, but that doesn’t mean we should hide from it.
Hurts. Habits. Hang-ups. All three of these are wrapped up in SIN. Either WE were the one acting in sin or the recipient of ANOTHER’S sin. It’s all SIN. I’m not the problem. You’re not the problem. The problem is the filthiness of our minds and the selfishness of our hearts. The SOLUTION is Jesus. He came to HEAL the wounded. He’s the REMEDY for the sick. His blood set us FREE.
You don’t have to keep doing these things. I don’t have to keep doing these things. There’s a GREATER plan, a BETTER plan. There’s HOPE and FREEDOM. We’re not the mistakes we’ve made, we’re not the things we’ve done, we’re not the labels we’ve been given…in Christ we’re a NEW CREATION!
So, we can either focus on the PROBLEM or focus on the SOLUTION.
The wife says, “I’m just not attracted to him anymore,” as she picks up Fifty Shades of Grey.
The father asks, “Will I ever have time for my family?” while working late yet again this week.
The mother screams, “Why won’t my kids listen to me?!?” while browsing Pinterest.
The husband thinks to himself, “She’s changed so much,” as he clicks his favorite porn site.
The daughter asks, “Will they ever understand me?” while she cuts her arm.
The son asks, “Will they notice I'm gone?” as he takes the last pill.
Why do we do the things we don’t want to do?
Why do we refuse to do the things we know we should?
Why?
I ask these questions, but I do it simply for effect. Thanks to Paul’s openness, thanks to Paul’s willingness to be real, I already have the answer (and so can you). Grab your Bible and open to Romans chapter 7. Start reading at verse 14. Read it. Stop once you’ve read through verse 20.
Paul didn’t ask these questions; he confessed his struggles. He knew he wasn’t doing what he should and continued doing what he shouldn’t. BUT, doesn’t stop there. He doesn’t simply confess his struggles, he identifies the ROOT OF THE PROBLEM…obviously Paul had successfully completed a Step Study.
Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Romans 7:20 NIV84
We’ve ALL got this problem called SIN. Don’t be afraid to say it. It’s offensive because it’s true and sometimes the truth hurts. Well, I don’t like that word…Jesus had to die because of it, something tells me he doesn’t like it either, but that doesn’t mean we should hide from it.
Hurts. Habits. Hang-ups. All three of these are wrapped up in SIN. Either WE were the one acting in sin or the recipient of ANOTHER’S sin. It’s all SIN. I’m not the problem. You’re not the problem. The problem is the filthiness of our minds and the selfishness of our hearts. The SOLUTION is Jesus. He came to HEAL the wounded. He’s the REMEDY for the sick. His blood set us FREE.
You don’t have to keep doing these things. I don’t have to keep doing these things. There’s a GREATER plan, a BETTER plan. There’s HOPE and FREEDOM. We’re not the mistakes we’ve made, we’re not the things we’ve done, we’re not the labels we’ve been given…in Christ we’re a NEW CREATION!
So, we can either focus on the PROBLEM or focus on the SOLUTION.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who celebrates freedom from drug, alcohol, and pornography addiction, and is celebrating recovery from pride and codependency, my name is Nick.
LAST WEEK:
What’s up CR? Last week my man Gerald shared his heart, shared his struggles both past and present, and unashamedly proclaimed gratitude for God’s grace and his need to both TRUST Him and RELY ON Him and Him alone! Wow…that was a mouthful…run-on sentence HELLO! I am seriously excited about hearing testimony after testimony of what God is DOING in your lives. Our CR family is full of people who don’t have all the answers, but we know WHO to turn to, WHO has the answers, and WHO has a better plan!
We’re learning that it’s OK to not be OK. We’re learning that God has been gracious enough to give us a second chance or a third or a fourth or a twentieth. We’re learning that the program of Celebrate Recovery isn’t the answer, it points us TO HIM! We’re learning to live day by day, moment by moment, embracing right now instead of worrying about what has yet to happen.
THIS WEEK:
Know what the BEST part of CR is? That we GET TO do it again this week! LOVE it! This week my good friend Steve (@smparrill) will be leading us through the lesson GIVE. What does it mean to GIVE BACK? What does that look like?
This is one of my absolute FAVORITE lessons because it describes why Celebrate Recovery is such a POWERFUL program. We recognize our issue(s)…notice the option to make it plural. We recognize our powerlessness. We recognize our need for God. We trust God for healing, for a better way of life, for freedom. THEN, we GIVE BACK by helping others. This is why I say Celebrate Recovery is a leadership factory! As we get BETTER, we develop into LEADERS!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Three really REALLY big announcements this week…
#1 Women’s Food Issues – Are you ready? This week we launch our NEW Open Share Discussion Group! Women will finally have a safe place to discuss their hurts, habits, and hang-ups as they relate to food. I’m PUMPED for the lives that will be transformed because of this group!
#2 An Intro to Celebration Station and The Landing – This Sunday, November 18, at 9:45a and 11:15a, we’ll be hosting a gathering to discuss and explore the programs of Celebration Station (PreK5-5th) and The Landing (6th-12th). You’ll have an opportunity to meet with leaders, ask questions, and even sign up to help with the launch! These programs are set to launch on January 4, 2013. I’m SUPER EXCITED for the chance to open the doors of Celebrate Recovery to the ENTIRE community regardless of age! Watch these videos…
Celebration Station – HERE
The Landing – HERE
#3 Thanksgiving Dinner – On Thursday, November 22, Celebrate Recovery is hosting a community Thanksgiving Dinner. That’s right! Nobody should have to be alone on the holidays…NOBODY! God intended for us to do life TOGETHER, so that’s what we’re going to do! Food will be served at 4p. Again, food will be served at 4p. If you’d like to help set up, tear down, prepare food, decorate, greet, serve, whatever…email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or call 304.262.6522. I believe God is going to bring in 100+ people from in and around the community for this special Thanksgiving tradition! Be praying!
THE END:
That’s it CR! There’s so MUCH happening at Celebrate Recovery right now! God is really moving and stirring something big within our midst. People are changing! People are growing! Leaders are emerging! God is entirely too good! Tell a friend. Invite someone. Let’s see our community set FREE!
LAST WEEK:
What’s up CR? Last week my man Gerald shared his heart, shared his struggles both past and present, and unashamedly proclaimed gratitude for God’s grace and his need to both TRUST Him and RELY ON Him and Him alone! Wow…that was a mouthful…run-on sentence HELLO! I am seriously excited about hearing testimony after testimony of what God is DOING in your lives. Our CR family is full of people who don’t have all the answers, but we know WHO to turn to, WHO has the answers, and WHO has a better plan!
We’re learning that it’s OK to not be OK. We’re learning that God has been gracious enough to give us a second chance or a third or a fourth or a twentieth. We’re learning that the program of Celebrate Recovery isn’t the answer, it points us TO HIM! We’re learning to live day by day, moment by moment, embracing right now instead of worrying about what has yet to happen.
THIS WEEK:
Know what the BEST part of CR is? That we GET TO do it again this week! LOVE it! This week my good friend Steve (@smparrill) will be leading us through the lesson GIVE. What does it mean to GIVE BACK? What does that look like?
This is one of my absolute FAVORITE lessons because it describes why Celebrate Recovery is such a POWERFUL program. We recognize our issue(s)…notice the option to make it plural. We recognize our powerlessness. We recognize our need for God. We trust God for healing, for a better way of life, for freedom. THEN, we GIVE BACK by helping others. This is why I say Celebrate Recovery is a leadership factory! As we get BETTER, we develop into LEADERS!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Three really REALLY big announcements this week…
#1 Women’s Food Issues – Are you ready? This week we launch our NEW Open Share Discussion Group! Women will finally have a safe place to discuss their hurts, habits, and hang-ups as they relate to food. I’m PUMPED for the lives that will be transformed because of this group!
#2 An Intro to Celebration Station and The Landing – This Sunday, November 18, at 9:45a and 11:15a, we’ll be hosting a gathering to discuss and explore the programs of Celebration Station (PreK5-5th) and The Landing (6th-12th). You’ll have an opportunity to meet with leaders, ask questions, and even sign up to help with the launch! These programs are set to launch on January 4, 2013. I’m SUPER EXCITED for the chance to open the doors of Celebrate Recovery to the ENTIRE community regardless of age! Watch these videos…
Celebration Station – HERE
The Landing – HERE
#3 Thanksgiving Dinner – On Thursday, November 22, Celebrate Recovery is hosting a community Thanksgiving Dinner. That’s right! Nobody should have to be alone on the holidays…NOBODY! God intended for us to do life TOGETHER, so that’s what we’re going to do! Food will be served at 4p. Again, food will be served at 4p. If you’d like to help set up, tear down, prepare food, decorate, greet, serve, whatever…email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org or call 304.262.6522. I believe God is going to bring in 100+ people from in and around the community for this special Thanksgiving tradition! Be praying!
THE END:
That’s it CR! There’s so MUCH happening at Celebrate Recovery right now! God is really moving and stirring something big within our midst. People are changing! People are growing! Leaders are emerging! God is entirely too good! Tell a friend. Invite someone. Let’s see our community set FREE!
Monday, November 12, 2012
Set List 11.7/9/11.12
THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE
First Wednesday: 6:30p
To Our God—Bethel Live
The Church—Elevation Worship
Alive in Us—Hillsong Live
With Us—Hillsong Live
TESTIMONY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7:00p
Marvelous Light—Charlie Hall
Born Again—Third Day
Bring the Rain—MercyMe
Overcame—Jeremy Camp
THE WALKING DEAD
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
Our God—Chris Tomlin
Jesus Son of God—Chris Tomlin
You Are My Vision—Rend Collective Experiment
How He Loves—John Mark McMillan
First Wednesday: 6:30p
To Our God—Bethel Live
The Church—Elevation Worship
Alive in Us—Hillsong Live
With Us—Hillsong Live
TESTIMONY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7:00p
Marvelous Light—Charlie Hall
Born Again—Third Day
Bring the Rain—MercyMe
Overcame—Jeremy Camp
THE WALKING DEAD
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
Our God—Chris Tomlin
Jesus Son of God—Chris Tomlin
You Are My Vision—Rend Collective Experiment
How He Loves—John Mark McMillan
Friday, November 9, 2012
I've Got Questions; Is That Ok?
Ever get the feeling this whole “following Jesus” thing is just a tad difficult? I mean, let’s be real, there appears to be this unapproachable, unobtainable expectation of holiness and righteousness that can be quite overwhelming at times. Or is that simply a misunderstanding? Am I to be holy and righteous or is Christ in me that works to make me holy and righteous? Is will power enough? Can I honestly make good decision? Am I capable of making healthy choices? At what point do I need to start relying on God or should I be doing that from the very beginning?
So many questions. AND when I finally get an answer it usually leads to a few more questions.
Confusing. Challenging. Difficult. Following Jesus is ANYTHING BUT easy. You can never know enough. You can never do enough. Who he is and what he wants to do in my life surpasses my understanding (here’s a hint: that’s why I TRUST him).
Glad I’m not alone.
Reading through the early pages of John you’ll stumble across a conversation, a discussion, an exchange between Jesus and a man named Nicodemus (Pharisee; member of the Sanhedrin; teacher; smart guy). Instead of listing a bunch of details regarding the dialogue between the two, I’ll simply post the text itself…or at least the part I want to focus on.
“You are Israel's teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?
John 3:10-12 NIV84
I LOVE this. Here we have Nicodemus, a teacher of the Law, a dude that most likely was highly esteemed, well-educated, all-around smart guy, asking Jesus about regeneration…no, not like a starfish growing (regenerating) a new limb, but a person crossing over from death to life through a relationship with Jesus Christ. He asked, “What does it mean to be born again?” Jesus then carries on a bit, referencing flesh, talking about Spirit, making an analogy to wind…then BAM! He tells Nicodemus like it is.
I tell you the TRUTH.
We speak of what we KNOW.
We testify to what we have SEEN.
And in spite of this, you, me…we do not accept it or understand it. We deny the truth. Cynicism takes over and we laugh it off, make snide remarks, and go about business as usual. For whatever reason, we lean into our faulty logic and finite reasoning to decipher the mysteries of the Creator of the universe.
I’m glad I’m not alone in this. I’m comforted in knowing I have questions that may remain unanswered until the day I die and meet Jesus face to face (or remain slumbering in my earth suit until he calls me up…either way I don’t think I’ll know the difference) and have the chance to ask him myself.
Don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions. Don’t be afraid to ask question EVER! It’s not about WHAT you KNOW, it’s about WHO you LOVE!
What heavenly things ignite a flame of curiosity in you? What questions do you have?
So many questions. AND when I finally get an answer it usually leads to a few more questions.
Confusing. Challenging. Difficult. Following Jesus is ANYTHING BUT easy. You can never know enough. You can never do enough. Who he is and what he wants to do in my life surpasses my understanding (here’s a hint: that’s why I TRUST him).
Glad I’m not alone.
Reading through the early pages of John you’ll stumble across a conversation, a discussion, an exchange between Jesus and a man named Nicodemus (Pharisee; member of the Sanhedrin; teacher; smart guy). Instead of listing a bunch of details regarding the dialogue between the two, I’ll simply post the text itself…or at least the part I want to focus on.
“You are Israel's teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?
John 3:10-12 NIV84
I LOVE this. Here we have Nicodemus, a teacher of the Law, a dude that most likely was highly esteemed, well-educated, all-around smart guy, asking Jesus about regeneration…no, not like a starfish growing (regenerating) a new limb, but a person crossing over from death to life through a relationship with Jesus Christ. He asked, “What does it mean to be born again?” Jesus then carries on a bit, referencing flesh, talking about Spirit, making an analogy to wind…then BAM! He tells Nicodemus like it is.
I tell you the TRUTH.
We speak of what we KNOW.
We testify to what we have SEEN.
And in spite of this, you, me…we do not accept it or understand it. We deny the truth. Cynicism takes over and we laugh it off, make snide remarks, and go about business as usual. For whatever reason, we lean into our faulty logic and finite reasoning to decipher the mysteries of the Creator of the universe.
I’m glad I’m not alone in this. I’m comforted in knowing I have questions that may remain unanswered until the day I die and meet Jesus face to face (or remain slumbering in my earth suit until he calls me up…either way I don’t think I’ll know the difference) and have the chance to ask him myself.
Don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions. Don’t be afraid to ask question EVER! It’s not about WHAT you KNOW, it’s about WHO you LOVE!
What heavenly things ignite a flame of curiosity in you? What questions do you have?
Thursday, November 8, 2012
I Want to Help People...Right?
I want to help people.
I want to help people.
I SAY I want to help people.
I THINK I want to help people.
Do I want to help people?
Sometimes I’m not to sure. Sometime I doubt there’s any goodness in my heart, not discounting the presence of God’s Spirit dwelling inside me, but sometimes it seems like the selfish side of me is the dominant force flowing throughout my body…leaving little or no room for God to have His way in me.
For example, just this morning my beautiful wife misplaced her phone. She was nearing panic. She, like most of us (or some of you), have very busy workdays, schedules to keep, deadlines to meet, people to see, places to go, and the slightest delay or detour seems to shift the momentum of your ENTIRE day. That was her morning. Stressful, eh?
I looked at the clock. I had some margin. My son didn’t need to be at school JUST yet. So, I did what any good, well-intentioned husband would do…I’LL HELP! I’LL FIX THIS! I’LL COME TO THE RESCUE!
Right.
After 15 minutes I found myself growing resentful. I felt inconvenienced. The trajectory of MY day was now starting to shift. Why did I volunteer for this? Did I REALLY want to help you? My son is going to be late. Where is your phone? Seriously…where could it be?
Then…in an almost serene moment…amidst the chaos, as tensions were rising, just on the cusp of tears and breakdown, we spoke to each other, encouraged one another, inspired one another…
Can’t you just use that App?
Within 5 minutes my wife was driving away, phone in hand.
Within 5 minutes I was driving away, son fastened in his seat.
Within 5 minutes catastrophe was averted.
As I drove to my son’s school I didn’t feel good about myself, I didn’t feel like I had accomplished something, I didn’t feel like I had helped the situation, let alone a PERSON! Instead, I was frustrated at the thought of possibly, just possibly being late to my son’s school.
That’s when the question came to mind, “Do I want to help people?”
Do I REALLY want to help people? Or do I merely want to help people so long as it isn’t an INCONVENIENCE?
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:36-40 NIV84
God doesn’t say love people if it fits into your schedule. Goes doesn’t say love people if you have time. God doesn’t say love people so long as they have an appointment. God doesn’t say love people when it’s planned.
God says love people.
God says love people as yourself.
God, help that to be me. I want to help people. Do you?
I want to help people.
I SAY I want to help people.
I THINK I want to help people.
Do I want to help people?
Sometimes I’m not to sure. Sometime I doubt there’s any goodness in my heart, not discounting the presence of God’s Spirit dwelling inside me, but sometimes it seems like the selfish side of me is the dominant force flowing throughout my body…leaving little or no room for God to have His way in me.
For example, just this morning my beautiful wife misplaced her phone. She was nearing panic. She, like most of us (or some of you), have very busy workdays, schedules to keep, deadlines to meet, people to see, places to go, and the slightest delay or detour seems to shift the momentum of your ENTIRE day. That was her morning. Stressful, eh?
I looked at the clock. I had some margin. My son didn’t need to be at school JUST yet. So, I did what any good, well-intentioned husband would do…I’LL HELP! I’LL FIX THIS! I’LL COME TO THE RESCUE!
Right.
After 15 minutes I found myself growing resentful. I felt inconvenienced. The trajectory of MY day was now starting to shift. Why did I volunteer for this? Did I REALLY want to help you? My son is going to be late. Where is your phone? Seriously…where could it be?
Then…in an almost serene moment…amidst the chaos, as tensions were rising, just on the cusp of tears and breakdown, we spoke to each other, encouraged one another, inspired one another…
Can’t you just use that App?
Within 5 minutes my wife was driving away, phone in hand.
Within 5 minutes I was driving away, son fastened in his seat.
Within 5 minutes catastrophe was averted.
As I drove to my son’s school I didn’t feel good about myself, I didn’t feel like I had accomplished something, I didn’t feel like I had helped the situation, let alone a PERSON! Instead, I was frustrated at the thought of possibly, just possibly being late to my son’s school.
That’s when the question came to mind, “Do I want to help people?”
Do I REALLY want to help people? Or do I merely want to help people so long as it isn’t an INCONVENIENCE?
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:36-40 NIV84
God doesn’t say love people if it fits into your schedule. Goes doesn’t say love people if you have time. God doesn’t say love people so long as they have an appointment. God doesn’t say love people when it’s planned.
God says love people.
God says love people as yourself.
God, help that to be me. I want to help people. Do you?
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who’s celebrating recovery from pride and codependency; my name is Nick.
LAST WEEK:
What is GRATITUDE? What does it mean to give thanks? What does it look like to acknowledge all you have? Tracey (@traceybscott) did a FANTASTIC job of walking us through the creation of a GRATITUDE list this past week at Celebrate Recovery. It was a defining moment, not only for us a family, but for her as she shared her own struggles and victory over her present circumstances…CHOOSING gratitude over self-pity (if you missed it, you can listen to it here).
If that wasn’t enough…Friday’s Celebrate Recovery was followed-up with a weekend experience at New Life unlike any other! 4 services. 20 testimonies. It was AMAZING! I clapped. I cheered. I cried; in fact, I cried until my face hurt. It was emotionally exhausting, yet spiritually fulfilling. It was a GREAT reminder that HOPE and FREEDOM are ready, available, and REAL and they’re found in Jesus.
Have you started writing your testimony?
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at CR this Friday (7p)! I LOVE testimonies! I LOVE being able to share in the stories, in the struggles, in the pains, and in the VICTORIES of other people! I LOVE seeing God at work in the lives of the people I consider family. This week Gerald will share his story of discovering God’s grace, finding FREEDOM from past hurts, as well as building BETTER relationships.
NEWS & UPDATES:
One of the coolest parts of this past Sunday at New Life was having the ability to set up an information table AND promote both Celebration Station and The Landing to the ENTIRE church. The response was INCREDIBE and I believe we’re going to be blessed with an AMAZING team for each program. AND, here’s the cool part, there’s still a spot available for you to help launch and lead these ministries!
If you’re interested, please email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org, call 304.262.6522, or sign-up this Friday at the Information Table.
What would have happened had you developed healthy coping skills as a child or teenager? You can make THAT difference in the lives of our kids and students!
Oh! Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 22. We’re going to open up the doors of New Life and host a Thanksgiving Dinner for the entire community! Would you like to help set up? Would you like to prepare a dish? Would you like to serve on the clean-up crew? Would you like to attend? I’m praying this building is FILLED with families from all around the community! Start getting the word out today!
STEP STUDIES:
The heart of the Celebrate Recovery program. It’s within the Step Studies that we move beyond the symptom and get to the root of the problem. For nearly half my life I struggled with drugs, alcohol, and pornography, but it wasn’t until I went through a Step Study that I was able to finally understand WHY. And once I understood WHY, I was able to figure out HOW to overcome each one! Groups are still OPEN. Let me say that again…groups are still OPEN! They meet every Tuesday night from 7-9p at New Life. These groups utilize the Participant’s Guides ($5 per book or $17 for the 4-pack) and the Celebrate Recovery Bible (optional).
THE END:
The holiday season is upon us! These next few months can be rather tricky. There’s the EXCITEMENT of giving, helping, and serving others! BUT, we often do it while neglecting ourselves. Make sure you’re setting time aside each and every day to pray, read the Bible, and connect with people you trust (Accountability Team). Get AROUND people and fight ISOLATION. Let’s make this the BEST holiday season yet! And let’s do it TOGETHER!
LAST WEEK:
What is GRATITUDE? What does it mean to give thanks? What does it look like to acknowledge all you have? Tracey (@traceybscott) did a FANTASTIC job of walking us through the creation of a GRATITUDE list this past week at Celebrate Recovery. It was a defining moment, not only for us a family, but for her as she shared her own struggles and victory over her present circumstances…CHOOSING gratitude over self-pity (if you missed it, you can listen to it here).
If that wasn’t enough…Friday’s Celebrate Recovery was followed-up with a weekend experience at New Life unlike any other! 4 services. 20 testimonies. It was AMAZING! I clapped. I cheered. I cried; in fact, I cried until my face hurt. It was emotionally exhausting, yet spiritually fulfilling. It was a GREAT reminder that HOPE and FREEDOM are ready, available, and REAL and they’re found in Jesus.
Have you started writing your testimony?
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at CR this Friday (7p)! I LOVE testimonies! I LOVE being able to share in the stories, in the struggles, in the pains, and in the VICTORIES of other people! I LOVE seeing God at work in the lives of the people I consider family. This week Gerald will share his story of discovering God’s grace, finding FREEDOM from past hurts, as well as building BETTER relationships.
NEWS & UPDATES:
One of the coolest parts of this past Sunday at New Life was having the ability to set up an information table AND promote both Celebration Station and The Landing to the ENTIRE church. The response was INCREDIBE and I believe we’re going to be blessed with an AMAZING team for each program. AND, here’s the cool part, there’s still a spot available for you to help launch and lead these ministries!
If you’re interested, please email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org, call 304.262.6522, or sign-up this Friday at the Information Table.
What would have happened had you developed healthy coping skills as a child or teenager? You can make THAT difference in the lives of our kids and students!
Oh! Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 22. We’re going to open up the doors of New Life and host a Thanksgiving Dinner for the entire community! Would you like to help set up? Would you like to prepare a dish? Would you like to serve on the clean-up crew? Would you like to attend? I’m praying this building is FILLED with families from all around the community! Start getting the word out today!
STEP STUDIES:
The heart of the Celebrate Recovery program. It’s within the Step Studies that we move beyond the symptom and get to the root of the problem. For nearly half my life I struggled with drugs, alcohol, and pornography, but it wasn’t until I went through a Step Study that I was able to finally understand WHY. And once I understood WHY, I was able to figure out HOW to overcome each one! Groups are still OPEN. Let me say that again…groups are still OPEN! They meet every Tuesday night from 7-9p at New Life. These groups utilize the Participant’s Guides ($5 per book or $17 for the 4-pack) and the Celebrate Recovery Bible (optional).
THE END:
The holiday season is upon us! These next few months can be rather tricky. There’s the EXCITEMENT of giving, helping, and serving others! BUT, we often do it while neglecting ourselves. Make sure you’re setting time aside each and every day to pray, read the Bible, and connect with people you trust (Accountability Team). Get AROUND people and fight ISOLATION. Let’s make this the BEST holiday season yet! And let’s do it TOGETHER!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Set List 11.2/4.12
LESSON: GRATITUDE
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
All Because of Jesus—Fee
Cornerstone—Hillsong Live
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Came to My Rescue—Hillsong United
STAND-ALONE
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
With Us—Hillsong Live
Unending Love—Hillsong Live
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Love Like Fire—Hillsong Live
Nothing But the Blood—Jesus Culture
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
All Because of Jesus—Fee
Cornerstone—Hillsong Live
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Came to My Rescue—Hillsong United
STAND-ALONE
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a, 12:45p
With Us—Hillsong Live
Unending Love—Hillsong Live
Forever Reign—Hillsong Live
Love Like Fire—Hillsong Live
Nothing But the Blood—Jesus Culture
Friday, November 2, 2012
3 Things I Want To Share With You
What’s up leaders? How would you define leadership? What IS leadership? What does it mean to LEAD? You may not know it yet, you may not consider yourself a leader, but I’m willing to bet you ARE. Leadership, in a nutshell, is influence. This means, if you have people or even a person (singular) that looks up to you or TO you in some way, you are a LEADER. Whether you want to be or not, you are a leader. The question is, “How will you manage your influence?”
The answer to that question will determine whether you’ll be a good leader or a not so desirable one.
Here’s are 3 things I’ve picked up along the way and try my best to implement whenever possible…
#1—Think the BEST in people. Regardless of what’s happening, in spite of the circumstances do NOT assume the people you’re leading are out to get you or trying to undermine you. This will put you in a defensive posture and EVERYTHING from that point forward will feel like an attack against you. Don’t go there. Don’t let it happen. Some people say it’s being “careful” or “wise” or having “discernment.” Sure, there’s room for that, but when you’re the one common denominator in an ocean of fragmented relationships…I’d say something’s up. Always, always think the best in people.
#2—Surround yourself with people you TRUST. This goes back to #1. If you don’t think the BEST in people, you’ll never TRUST people. And if you say you TRUST them then think the BEST in them. It’s a bit of a catch 22. If you don’t trust someone, you won’t ENTRUST them. That person will never reach their full potential under your leadership nor will you be able to tap into their potential because you’ll always keep them at arm’s reach, out where you can keep an eye on them. Surround yourself with people you trust and let them do their job, let them take ownership, give them permission to run with things. TRUST them to do their jobs so you can do yours.
#3—Do not BELITTLE your people. A leader that honestly cares for people, who loves the people more than the product, typically isn’t going to have to worry about this. On the other hand, the leader doesn’t, typically sees people as a means to an end. The leader who doesn’t CARE for people often USES people. This leader will often scold their people as if they were children…if I spank you in front of your friends, maybe you won’t do this again! This mentality will only lead to your people jumping ship. Think the BEST in people, TRUST them, CARE FOR them, and this won’t happen. Don’t treat people like dogs. Don’t treat people as a means. LOVE them. INVEST IN them.
I’m still learning. I’m still growing. I’m still trying to figure out what it means to be a LEADER. God is showing me that I gotta love the WHO more than the WHAT. God is showing me that I gotta love PEOPLE more than PRODUCT.
Leader, how are you managing your INFLUENCE?
The answer to that question will determine whether you’ll be a good leader or a not so desirable one.
Here’s are 3 things I’ve picked up along the way and try my best to implement whenever possible…
#1—Think the BEST in people. Regardless of what’s happening, in spite of the circumstances do NOT assume the people you’re leading are out to get you or trying to undermine you. This will put you in a defensive posture and EVERYTHING from that point forward will feel like an attack against you. Don’t go there. Don’t let it happen. Some people say it’s being “careful” or “wise” or having “discernment.” Sure, there’s room for that, but when you’re the one common denominator in an ocean of fragmented relationships…I’d say something’s up. Always, always think the best in people.
#2—Surround yourself with people you TRUST. This goes back to #1. If you don’t think the BEST in people, you’ll never TRUST people. And if you say you TRUST them then think the BEST in them. It’s a bit of a catch 22. If you don’t trust someone, you won’t ENTRUST them. That person will never reach their full potential under your leadership nor will you be able to tap into their potential because you’ll always keep them at arm’s reach, out where you can keep an eye on them. Surround yourself with people you trust and let them do their job, let them take ownership, give them permission to run with things. TRUST them to do their jobs so you can do yours.
#3—Do not BELITTLE your people. A leader that honestly cares for people, who loves the people more than the product, typically isn’t going to have to worry about this. On the other hand, the leader doesn’t, typically sees people as a means to an end. The leader who doesn’t CARE for people often USES people. This leader will often scold their people as if they were children…if I spank you in front of your friends, maybe you won’t do this again! This mentality will only lead to your people jumping ship. Think the BEST in people, TRUST them, CARE FOR them, and this won’t happen. Don’t treat people like dogs. Don’t treat people as a means. LOVE them. INVEST IN them.
I’m still learning. I’m still growing. I’m still trying to figure out what it means to be a LEADER. God is showing me that I gotta love the WHO more than the WHAT. God is showing me that I gotta love PEOPLE more than PRODUCT.
Leader, how are you managing your INFLUENCE?
Thursday, November 1, 2012
7 Principles from Principle 7
Celebrate Recovery's Principle 7 of states, “Reserve a daily time with God for self-examination, Bible reading, and prayer in order to know God and His will for my life and to gain the power to follow His will.”
That’s a LOADED statement! Let’s break it down…
#1 Reserve a daily time with God…setting time aside for God is just a good idea, it’s critical to maintaining any sense of progress in recovery. After a while it’s easy to get into a routine, to settle down, to grow complacent. We get comfortable in our sobriety, in our recovery, so comfortable in fact; we forget how it is we even got there…HIS help, HIS power, HIS grace. Are you setting time aside? Are you reserving a daily time with God?
#2 for self-examination…we PRAY for others, but we don’t try to fix them. The purpose of engaging God is a personal dialogue is to grow YOUR relationship, asking Him to reveal the things in YOU that need to change. Whether you’re talking to God or someone you trust, talking about other people is gossip. Trust me, it isn’t like God’s like, “Oh! Really? I didn’t know that about them!” How are you doing in this area?
#3 Bible reading…God’s word. That book is the easiest way to discover what God has to say to you right now, in this moment. It’s a tangible way of communicating with Him. He’s trying to guide you, lead you, direct you THROUGH His word. When was the last time you picked up your Bible with a desire to HEAR FROM Him?
#4 and prayer…God speaks through His word. You speak through prayer. Give Him thanks. Give Him praise. Give Him the good. Give Him the crap. Give Him your joy. Give Him your pain. Then stop. Pause. And listen. Listen for Him. Prayer is an intimate conversation between you and the Creator of the universe. He isn’t too busy to listen, are you too busy to speak?
#5 in order to know God…that should say it all. You want to know Him? Get in His word. Get in His face. How do you build a relationship? Proximity. Time. Communication. These are probably the 3 biggest components of a healthy, working relationship. How’s your relationship with God? Do you know Him?
#6 and His will for my life…we ALL have plans for our life. We ALL believe we know the BEST way to do something. We ALL think we know the RIGHT way. I’ve been there. I’ve done that. Chances are, you have too. How’d it work out? How far did you get? Me? I ended up in drug and alcohol addiction. I ended up choosing pornography over my wife (in other words, cheating on her, sorry guys gotta call it like it is). His ways are BETTER. His ways are GREATER. Want to know what He has in store for you? Set time aside for Him.
#7 and to gain the power to follow His will…here’s the real kicker; we CAN’T DO IT ALONE! He shows us His plan. He gives us direction. And we take off running, pumped, excited…problem is we left God behind. “Come on God! Catch up!” Recovery is about giving up our sense of control and allowing God to lead. Recovery is about running, no longer running AWAY FROM ourselves, but running in His footsteps. HE leads the way. Have you given up control?
That’s a LOADED statement! Let’s break it down…
#1 Reserve a daily time with God…setting time aside for God is just a good idea, it’s critical to maintaining any sense of progress in recovery. After a while it’s easy to get into a routine, to settle down, to grow complacent. We get comfortable in our sobriety, in our recovery, so comfortable in fact; we forget how it is we even got there…HIS help, HIS power, HIS grace. Are you setting time aside? Are you reserving a daily time with God?
#2 for self-examination…we PRAY for others, but we don’t try to fix them. The purpose of engaging God is a personal dialogue is to grow YOUR relationship, asking Him to reveal the things in YOU that need to change. Whether you’re talking to God or someone you trust, talking about other people is gossip. Trust me, it isn’t like God’s like, “Oh! Really? I didn’t know that about them!” How are you doing in this area?
#3 Bible reading…God’s word. That book is the easiest way to discover what God has to say to you right now, in this moment. It’s a tangible way of communicating with Him. He’s trying to guide you, lead you, direct you THROUGH His word. When was the last time you picked up your Bible with a desire to HEAR FROM Him?
#4 and prayer…God speaks through His word. You speak through prayer. Give Him thanks. Give Him praise. Give Him the good. Give Him the crap. Give Him your joy. Give Him your pain. Then stop. Pause. And listen. Listen for Him. Prayer is an intimate conversation between you and the Creator of the universe. He isn’t too busy to listen, are you too busy to speak?
#5 in order to know God…that should say it all. You want to know Him? Get in His word. Get in His face. How do you build a relationship? Proximity. Time. Communication. These are probably the 3 biggest components of a healthy, working relationship. How’s your relationship with God? Do you know Him?
#6 and His will for my life…we ALL have plans for our life. We ALL believe we know the BEST way to do something. We ALL think we know the RIGHT way. I’ve been there. I’ve done that. Chances are, you have too. How’d it work out? How far did you get? Me? I ended up in drug and alcohol addiction. I ended up choosing pornography over my wife (in other words, cheating on her, sorry guys gotta call it like it is). His ways are BETTER. His ways are GREATER. Want to know what He has in store for you? Set time aside for Him.
#7 and to gain the power to follow His will…here’s the real kicker; we CAN’T DO IT ALONE! He shows us His plan. He gives us direction. And we take off running, pumped, excited…problem is we left God behind. “Come on God! Catch up!” Recovery is about giving up our sense of control and allowing God to lead. Recovery is about running, no longer running AWAY FROM ourselves, but running in His footsteps. HE leads the way. Have you given up control?
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