INVENTORY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Like A Lion—David Crowder*Band
Revelation Song—Kari Jobe
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Came To My Rescue—Hillsong
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 4 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Nothing But The Blood—Jesus Culture
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Nothing Is Wasted—Elevation Worship
Create In Me A Clean Heart—Keith Green
Monday, April 29, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
What Are You Waiting For?
Why are you standing there with your hand out?
What are you waiting for?
You’ve got dreams.
You’ve got plans.
Again, what are you waiting for?
Who said it was just going to happen?
Who led you to believe your dreams would simply fall into your lap?
When was the last time you worked toward making your dreams come true?
When was the last time you did something?
Dream BIGGER.
Work harder.
Do what you gotta do to get what you gotta get.
Do what you gotta do to go where you wanna go.
Do what you gotta do and don’t look back.
What’s holding you back?
Why are you waiting for someone else to do something?
Why settle for celebrating someone else’s accomplishments?
Why cling to someone else’s dream?
Stop dreaming; start doing.
Stop whining; start working.
Stop expecting a handout; start stepping out.
You can do it.
Take that first step.
Get started.
And don’t stop.
Don’t give up.
If you fall, get up.
I believe in you.
What are you waiting for?
You’ve got dreams.
You’ve got plans.
Again, what are you waiting for?
Who said it was just going to happen?
Who led you to believe your dreams would simply fall into your lap?
When was the last time you worked toward making your dreams come true?
When was the last time you did something?
Dream BIGGER.
Work harder.
Do what you gotta do to get what you gotta get.
Do what you gotta do to go where you wanna go.
Do what you gotta do and don’t look back.
What’s holding you back?
Why are you waiting for someone else to do something?
Why settle for celebrating someone else’s accomplishments?
Why cling to someone else’s dream?
Stop dreaming; start doing.
Stop whining; start working.
Stop expecting a handout; start stepping out.
You can do it.
Take that first step.
Get started.
And don’t stop.
Don’t give up.
If you fall, get up.
I believe in you.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Something Written In My Bible
“May God bless you as you continue your spiritual journey.”
This sentence can be found on one of the pages inside my first Bible. My in-laws gave it to me on July 10, 2005, seven days after I was baptized, seven days after I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. These words were relatively foreign to me.
Bless me?
Spiritual journey?
I’m pretty sure I thought I just needed to pray a prayer and BOOM that was it.
I didn’t know God wanted a relationship with me.
I didn’t know God had plans for my life.
I didn’t know God wanted what’s best for me.
I didn’t know God was on my side.
So, for the next two years I continued living like I didn’t even know God. I had my own plans for my life. I had my own idea of what was best. For the next two years my spiritual journey consisted of partying six days out of the week and showing up to church on the other. I wasn’t reading the Bible. I wasn’t praying. I was simply too busy with me.
Fast forward a few years and I’m now clean, sober, and serving as a pastor at New Life Church in Inwood, WV. And within these few years of ministry I’ve realized that I’m not alone. My story is like so many others. I would like to suggest many of us, maybe even most of us, get stuck in that pattern of praying a prayer and leaving it at that.
No relationship.
No change.
No journey.
We settle for the monotony of religiosity. We convince ourselves God gave us six days almost like a reward for giving him one day…or at least one hour of one day…if we go. Is this the blessing they had in mind? Is this the journey my in-laws wrote about?
Don’t settle for less. God has plans for you that far surpass anything you can possibly imagine. He’s gifted you for a purpose. That purpose is fulfilled according to His plan. His plan is for you to change the world in some way, somehow, somewhere. God didn’t send His son to die on a cross so you and I could continue living SELFISHLY, but so we could live SELFLESSLY.
Where are you at today? How’s your journey? Are you CONTINUING or have you put things on hold? Have you hit the spiritual pause button? What can you do to get back on track OR to get on track for the FIRST TIME?
This sentence can be found on one of the pages inside my first Bible. My in-laws gave it to me on July 10, 2005, seven days after I was baptized, seven days after I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. These words were relatively foreign to me.
Bless me?
Spiritual journey?
I’m pretty sure I thought I just needed to pray a prayer and BOOM that was it.
I didn’t know God wanted a relationship with me.
I didn’t know God had plans for my life.
I didn’t know God wanted what’s best for me.
I didn’t know God was on my side.
So, for the next two years I continued living like I didn’t even know God. I had my own plans for my life. I had my own idea of what was best. For the next two years my spiritual journey consisted of partying six days out of the week and showing up to church on the other. I wasn’t reading the Bible. I wasn’t praying. I was simply too busy with me.
Fast forward a few years and I’m now clean, sober, and serving as a pastor at New Life Church in Inwood, WV. And within these few years of ministry I’ve realized that I’m not alone. My story is like so many others. I would like to suggest many of us, maybe even most of us, get stuck in that pattern of praying a prayer and leaving it at that.
No relationship.
No change.
No journey.
We settle for the monotony of religiosity. We convince ourselves God gave us six days almost like a reward for giving him one day…or at least one hour of one day…if we go. Is this the blessing they had in mind? Is this the journey my in-laws wrote about?
Don’t settle for less. God has plans for you that far surpass anything you can possibly imagine. He’s gifted you for a purpose. That purpose is fulfilled according to His plan. His plan is for you to change the world in some way, somehow, somewhere. God didn’t send His son to die on a cross so you and I could continue living SELFISHLY, but so we could live SELFLESSLY.
Where are you at today? How’s your journey? Are you CONTINUING or have you put things on hold? Have you hit the spiritual pause button? What can you do to get back on track OR to get on track for the FIRST TIME?
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
The 4 Second Lie
What is it about our FEELINGS or even our CIRCUMSTANCES we do not want to or believe we can share with others? What’s with this sense of having to keep private? Why do you, do I, do so many of us feel the need to wear a mask?
Yesterday I asked the question:
When someone asks, "How are you?" Do you give them the 7-10 minute HONEST answer or the 4 second LIE?
This question sparked an interesting conversation. I enjoyed reading through the various perspectives and views and thoughts. I ALWAYS enjoy conversations like this because I’m exposed to NEW thoughts, which usually lead to NEW thoughts and ideas bouncing around in my head. And it’s because of this conversation I decided to take a few moments and share my perspective on the matter…
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus who struggles with pride and anger. I’ve been a participant and volunteer and leader in Celebrate Recovery (CR) for the past 3 years. In the church world I’d still be considered a NEW believer, so I guess in the recovery world I’m a NEW recoverer (pretty sure I made that word up). So, in many cases, it’s all still new to me…and I LOVE it!
One of the things I enjoy most about CR or simply recovery in general, is the shift from HIDING to VULNERABILITY. This is probably one of the most freeing transitions anyone can make in life. All it takes is that first time of opening up, that first time of sharing something intimate, something you thought you’d take with you to the grave, and BAM! you can’t back…well, you CAN, but you DON’T WANT TO. Probably the single greatest contributor to the joy in my life (outside of Jesus) is being honest and having 0 secrets. I will straight up share the dirtiness of my past with you while waiting in line at Food Lion. Seriously, I will.
It’s this sense of freedom, this idea of honesty, that moment when you realize, “I’m only as sick as my secrets” that lead me to make the statement above. Will you be HONEST or will you tell a LIE? Here’s the example:
Q: How are you?
A: I’m great!
The LIE. Well, you MIGHT be doing great, but chances are there’s so much more happening in your life than you even remotely want to share. For most, here’s an answer that better reflects what’s going on:
Q: How are you?
A: My life is in shambles. My marriage is falling apart. My husband is cheating on me. My wife spends more time in her porn novels than speaking to me. My kids are killing themselves with drugs. I’m about to lose my job. We’re so far in debt we can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. I’m struggling to believe God is who He says He is. I want to fall on the ground and cry uncontrollably. I have cancer. I can’t stop eating even though I’m overweight and know it’s killing me.
That used to me. I did this very thing. I would show up at church hungover from the night before with a smile on my face, waving and shaking hands, and leading everyone to believe that my life was just GREAT! Lying sucks. Hiding sucks. It merely enabled my life to continue down the path it was on because nobody knew what was going on. You don’t have to stay here. You don’t have to live this way.
If your life sucks right now, don’t say everything is great.
If you’re dying inside, don’t say you’re fine.
If you feel hopeless, don’t say you’re good.
Open up. Get honest. Tell someone what’s up. Confess it and start the healing process (James 5:16).
And, in the mean time, if you don’t REALLY want to know what’s up with my life, just say, “Hi, Nick!” or you just might get more than you bargained for.
Yesterday I asked the question:
When someone asks, "How are you?" Do you give them the 7-10 minute HONEST answer or the 4 second LIE?
This question sparked an interesting conversation. I enjoyed reading through the various perspectives and views and thoughts. I ALWAYS enjoy conversations like this because I’m exposed to NEW thoughts, which usually lead to NEW thoughts and ideas bouncing around in my head. And it’s because of this conversation I decided to take a few moments and share my perspective on the matter…
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus who struggles with pride and anger. I’ve been a participant and volunteer and leader in Celebrate Recovery (CR) for the past 3 years. In the church world I’d still be considered a NEW believer, so I guess in the recovery world I’m a NEW recoverer (pretty sure I made that word up). So, in many cases, it’s all still new to me…and I LOVE it!
One of the things I enjoy most about CR or simply recovery in general, is the shift from HIDING to VULNERABILITY. This is probably one of the most freeing transitions anyone can make in life. All it takes is that first time of opening up, that first time of sharing something intimate, something you thought you’d take with you to the grave, and BAM! you can’t back…well, you CAN, but you DON’T WANT TO. Probably the single greatest contributor to the joy in my life (outside of Jesus) is being honest and having 0 secrets. I will straight up share the dirtiness of my past with you while waiting in line at Food Lion. Seriously, I will.
It’s this sense of freedom, this idea of honesty, that moment when you realize, “I’m only as sick as my secrets” that lead me to make the statement above. Will you be HONEST or will you tell a LIE? Here’s the example:
Q: How are you?
A: I’m great!
The LIE. Well, you MIGHT be doing great, but chances are there’s so much more happening in your life than you even remotely want to share. For most, here’s an answer that better reflects what’s going on:
Q: How are you?
A: My life is in shambles. My marriage is falling apart. My husband is cheating on me. My wife spends more time in her porn novels than speaking to me. My kids are killing themselves with drugs. I’m about to lose my job. We’re so far in debt we can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. I’m struggling to believe God is who He says He is. I want to fall on the ground and cry uncontrollably. I have cancer. I can’t stop eating even though I’m overweight and know it’s killing me.
That used to me. I did this very thing. I would show up at church hungover from the night before with a smile on my face, waving and shaking hands, and leading everyone to believe that my life was just GREAT! Lying sucks. Hiding sucks. It merely enabled my life to continue down the path it was on because nobody knew what was going on. You don’t have to stay here. You don’t have to live this way.
If your life sucks right now, don’t say everything is great.
If you’re dying inside, don’t say you’re fine.
If you feel hopeless, don’t say you’re good.
Open up. Get honest. Tell someone what’s up. Confess it and start the healing process (James 5:16).
And, in the mean time, if you don’t REALLY want to know what’s up with my life, just say, “Hi, Nick!” or you just might get more than you bargained for.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who struggles with pride and anger.
LAST WEEK:
I’m pretty sure we could’ve renamed Celebrate Recovery to Cryfest 2013 last week! Joe’s story hit home for me in so many different ways. It was as if he was sharing MY story from the stage! God is so good! I absolutely LOVED hearing him share about his past and recent struggles with addiction, how real and vulnerable he was. It’s not often a MAN will allow you into his life like that. And then, as if the night couldn’t get any better, he shared how he found victory in Christ and the program of Celebrate Recovery. Can’t say with 100% certainty, but I think I shouted, “YES!” at one point.
Then we capped off the night with the 10:10p opening day showing of Home Run. Such a FANTASTIC film! I might be biased, but I’m also very critical. I love Celebrate Recovery, but I don’t like a bad movie. Home Run tells one of the BEST stories I’ve ever seen in a movie…it’s real life…it’s my every Tuesday night (Step Study) and Friday night (Celebrate Recovery)…it’s MY life (struggling with alcohol, failing to be a dad, running away from past hurts). If you missed it, go see it. Even the credits made me cry.
THIS WEEK:
Inventory! Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” What does that mean? Why would I even WANT to do that? I have no problem helping other people through their problems (typically pointing out the areas they don’t see), but working on ME…no thanks! But read that last little bit of the verse, “and let us return to the Lord.” Sometimes, maybe even most times, I need to get over myself so I can find my way back to God. I wander. I stray. I follow my own plans and endure the pain from those plans…sometimes causing others pain along the way. This week at Celebrate Recovery we learn what it takes to get honest and live FREE! You do not want to miss this!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 2 things I want to share with you…
#1 Home Run—Big BIG thanks to our CR leaders! Y’all made the release of Home Run, here in Martinsburg, WV, a SUCCESS! What is success? People were able to experience the hope and freedom offered at Celebrate Recovery in a MOVIE! That’s awesome! Here’s some MORE good news: it’s STILL at Regal Martinsburg Stadium 10! If you haven’t been able to see it, seriously, grab someone and go see it. Make it worthwhile and take someone who’s not interested in church or possibly has a skewed view of “recovery.”
#2 Step Study Leader Training—Thursday, April 25, from 6-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428), I’ll be hosting a training session on how to lead a Step Study. Step Studies are the HEART of the Celebrate Recovery program and by completing this training YOU can lead one! This is your opportunity to made a difference in the community! Get answers to all the HOW’s and WHY’s. I’ll be starting promptly at 6p, please arrive prepared to get right to it!
THE END:
Join me and continue praying God raises up leaders for Celebration Station (PreK5-5th).
LAST WEEK:
I’m pretty sure we could’ve renamed Celebrate Recovery to Cryfest 2013 last week! Joe’s story hit home for me in so many different ways. It was as if he was sharing MY story from the stage! God is so good! I absolutely LOVED hearing him share about his past and recent struggles with addiction, how real and vulnerable he was. It’s not often a MAN will allow you into his life like that. And then, as if the night couldn’t get any better, he shared how he found victory in Christ and the program of Celebrate Recovery. Can’t say with 100% certainty, but I think I shouted, “YES!” at one point.
Then we capped off the night with the 10:10p opening day showing of Home Run. Such a FANTASTIC film! I might be biased, but I’m also very critical. I love Celebrate Recovery, but I don’t like a bad movie. Home Run tells one of the BEST stories I’ve ever seen in a movie…it’s real life…it’s my every Tuesday night (Step Study) and Friday night (Celebrate Recovery)…it’s MY life (struggling with alcohol, failing to be a dad, running away from past hurts). If you missed it, go see it. Even the credits made me cry.
THIS WEEK:
Inventory! Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” What does that mean? Why would I even WANT to do that? I have no problem helping other people through their problems (typically pointing out the areas they don’t see), but working on ME…no thanks! But read that last little bit of the verse, “and let us return to the Lord.” Sometimes, maybe even most times, I need to get over myself so I can find my way back to God. I wander. I stray. I follow my own plans and endure the pain from those plans…sometimes causing others pain along the way. This week at Celebrate Recovery we learn what it takes to get honest and live FREE! You do not want to miss this!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 2 things I want to share with you…
#1 Home Run—Big BIG thanks to our CR leaders! Y’all made the release of Home Run, here in Martinsburg, WV, a SUCCESS! What is success? People were able to experience the hope and freedom offered at Celebrate Recovery in a MOVIE! That’s awesome! Here’s some MORE good news: it’s STILL at Regal Martinsburg Stadium 10! If you haven’t been able to see it, seriously, grab someone and go see it. Make it worthwhile and take someone who’s not interested in church or possibly has a skewed view of “recovery.”
#2 Step Study Leader Training—Thursday, April 25, from 6-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428), I’ll be hosting a training session on how to lead a Step Study. Step Studies are the HEART of the Celebrate Recovery program and by completing this training YOU can lead one! This is your opportunity to made a difference in the community! Get answers to all the HOW’s and WHY’s. I’ll be starting promptly at 6p, please arrive prepared to get right to it!
THE END:
Join me and continue praying God raises up leaders for Celebration Station (PreK5-5th).
Monday, April 22, 2013
Set List 4.19/21.13
TESTIMONY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
One Thing Remains—Bethel
Revelation Song—Kari Jobe
Show Me Your Glory—Jesus Culture
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 3 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Let Me Feel You Shine—David Crowder*Band
One Thing Remains—Bethel
Not For A Moment—Vertical Church
Give Me Faith—Elevation
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
One Thing Remains—Bethel
Revelation Song—Kari Jobe
Show Me Your Glory—Jesus Culture
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 3 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Let Me Feel You Shine—David Crowder*Band
One Thing Remains—Bethel
Not For A Moment—Vertical Church
Give Me Faith—Elevation
Friday, April 19, 2013
2 Reasons Why Today Is Awesome
Few days rival the excitement I’m experiencing today. Here are two reason I believe today is AWESOME:
#1 Joe’s Testimony—Tonight at Celebrate Recovery my buddy Joe will be sharing his story. He’s going to walk us through the pain of his past; pain resulting from bad decisions, pain resulting from selfishness, denial, and addiction. As he stands on stage and shares his story, a story that begins with pain and ends in victory, we’re going to see my man truly be set free. No more secrets. No more lies. That’s freedom. I am PUMPED to watch Joe get a little lighter tonight as the burdens of his past are lifted from his shoulders. Clear your schedule and make it out to Celebrate Recovery tonight from 7-9p (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428).
#2 Home Run—I wanted to put this as the #1 reason, but there’s just something about hearing someone share his or her story LIVE that you can’t beat, but Home Run definitely comes in at a close second (almost a tie…maybe). IT’S FINALLY HERE! Home Run debuts in theaters nationwide TODAY! The big WIN for this movie, in my opinion, is it feels almost like you’re experiencing a testimony night at Celebrate Recovery…only it’s a movie. You walk through the bad parts…the drinking, the yelling, the screaming, the fighting, the anger, the abuse, the depression…life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. And I don’t want to give too much away, but it ends like a testimony too (V-I-C-T-O-R-Y). This movie is a MUST SEE!
Tonight, following Celebrate Recovery, a group of us will be heading over to Regal Martinsburg Stadium 10 to experience the 10p showing of Home Run. Yes, this movie is an EXPERIENCE. It’s your story. It’s my story. It’s the story of someone you know and love. Come out to CR tonight, bring $10, help us get the building cleaned up, and then let’s go to the movies (this means I’m inviting you)!
#1 Joe’s Testimony—Tonight at Celebrate Recovery my buddy Joe will be sharing his story. He’s going to walk us through the pain of his past; pain resulting from bad decisions, pain resulting from selfishness, denial, and addiction. As he stands on stage and shares his story, a story that begins with pain and ends in victory, we’re going to see my man truly be set free. No more secrets. No more lies. That’s freedom. I am PUMPED to watch Joe get a little lighter tonight as the burdens of his past are lifted from his shoulders. Clear your schedule and make it out to Celebrate Recovery tonight from 7-9p (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428).
#2 Home Run—I wanted to put this as the #1 reason, but there’s just something about hearing someone share his or her story LIVE that you can’t beat, but Home Run definitely comes in at a close second (almost a tie…maybe). IT’S FINALLY HERE! Home Run debuts in theaters nationwide TODAY! The big WIN for this movie, in my opinion, is it feels almost like you’re experiencing a testimony night at Celebrate Recovery…only it’s a movie. You walk through the bad parts…the drinking, the yelling, the screaming, the fighting, the anger, the abuse, the depression…life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. And I don’t want to give too much away, but it ends like a testimony too (V-I-C-T-O-R-Y). This movie is a MUST SEE!
Tonight, following Celebrate Recovery, a group of us will be heading over to Regal Martinsburg Stadium 10 to experience the 10p showing of Home Run. Yes, this movie is an EXPERIENCE. It’s your story. It’s my story. It’s the story of someone you know and love. Come out to CR tonight, bring $10, help us get the building cleaned up, and then let’s go to the movies (this means I’m inviting you)!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Home Run The Movie
On Friday, April 19, which just so happens to be tomorrow, Home Run debuts in theaters across the nation AND, here comes the awesome part, it’s coming here, to Regal Martinsburg Stadium 10! I AM EXCITED OUT OF MY MIND! I don’t think I’ve been this excited about a movie release since I first heard about the Avengers. I had the privilege of previewing this movie a few months back and it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! And here’s why…
The movie is about a baseball player who struggles with alcoholism. He does some things he shouldn’t do. He says some things he shouldn’t say. He slowly starts losing EVERYTHING he loves (including his job). He struggles to catch a glimpse of any kind of hope because he’s just so wrapped up in his addiction. HELLO! This is MY story. And I believe it is YOUR story as well.
One thing I know is that we’ve ALL been hurt by someone or hurt someone else (Romans 3:23). We either ARE Cory Brand (the main character) or we’re related to him, best friends with him, work with him, call him son, or we’re married to him (plug in “her” where applicable). It’s REAL. It’s AUTHENTIC. It HITS HOME. Home Run speaks to your past circumstances, your current situation, the pain, the hurt, the overwhelming sense of “I CAN’T DO THIS ANYMORE…”
“…WILL SOMEONE PLEASE HELP?”
This past December I celebrated 5 years of sobriety; 5 years of sobriety from drugs, 5 years of sobriety from alcohol, and 5 years of sobriety from pornography. I know what it means to hurt. I know what it means to hurt others. I know what it means to wreck your marriage and abandon your kids. I also know what it’s like to find FREEDOM!
“Celebrate Recovery?!? What? You couldn’t find me a NORMAL program?”
This is my favorite line from movie. Yes, the movie highlights what I believe to be the most dynamic, life-changing program around—Celebrate Recovery. I speak from personal experience. This program has been the single greatest resource for learning what it means to be a husband, a father, a friend, and even a pastor. I’ve learned how to love myself and others. I’ve learned I’m not the mistakes I’ve made, but in Christ I’ve been made new.
This movie is going to breathe hope into someone’s life.
This movie is going to break the cycle of dysfunction in someone’s home.
This movie is going to introduce someone to freedom.
Don’t go to this movie thinking, “So-and-so really needs see this movie,” (that’s called pride and denial…just sayin’), instead; go in believing, “I need see this movie.”
Discover freedom from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups.
Clear your schedule and MAKE TIME to see Home Run; it’ll change your life.
The movie is about a baseball player who struggles with alcoholism. He does some things he shouldn’t do. He says some things he shouldn’t say. He slowly starts losing EVERYTHING he loves (including his job). He struggles to catch a glimpse of any kind of hope because he’s just so wrapped up in his addiction. HELLO! This is MY story. And I believe it is YOUR story as well.
One thing I know is that we’ve ALL been hurt by someone or hurt someone else (Romans 3:23). We either ARE Cory Brand (the main character) or we’re related to him, best friends with him, work with him, call him son, or we’re married to him (plug in “her” where applicable). It’s REAL. It’s AUTHENTIC. It HITS HOME. Home Run speaks to your past circumstances, your current situation, the pain, the hurt, the overwhelming sense of “I CAN’T DO THIS ANYMORE…”
“…WILL SOMEONE PLEASE HELP?”
This past December I celebrated 5 years of sobriety; 5 years of sobriety from drugs, 5 years of sobriety from alcohol, and 5 years of sobriety from pornography. I know what it means to hurt. I know what it means to hurt others. I know what it means to wreck your marriage and abandon your kids. I also know what it’s like to find FREEDOM!
“Celebrate Recovery?!? What? You couldn’t find me a NORMAL program?”
This is my favorite line from movie. Yes, the movie highlights what I believe to be the most dynamic, life-changing program around—Celebrate Recovery. I speak from personal experience. This program has been the single greatest resource for learning what it means to be a husband, a father, a friend, and even a pastor. I’ve learned how to love myself and others. I’ve learned I’m not the mistakes I’ve made, but in Christ I’ve been made new.
This movie is going to breathe hope into someone’s life.
This movie is going to break the cycle of dysfunction in someone’s home.
This movie is going to introduce someone to freedom.
Don’t go to this movie thinking, “So-and-so really needs see this movie,” (that’s called pride and denial…just sayin’), instead; go in believing, “I need see this movie.”
Discover freedom from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups.
Clear your schedule and MAKE TIME to see Home Run; it’ll change your life.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
What's Up With "Those" Choices?
Are you familiar with THOSE choices? You know…
THOSE choices that you’d rather not make.
THOSE choices that you’d prefer see disappear.
THOSE choices that you’d like to ignore.
THOSE choices that keep you up at night and wake you up early in the morning.
THOSE choices that make your heart rate jump and eye twitch and skin sweat.
THOSE choices.
Life is full them. You can’t escape them (though you’d like to…heck, I’d like to). And it’s these choices, the really REALLY hard ones, that typically lead to something unimaginably AWESOME in the end! Like, you gotta go through the CRAP to get to the BLESSING (tweet that).
So, what are the tough choices you’re facing today? What are the decisions looming overhead stealing your rest, your peace, and your joy?
God once told a guy to pack up all his stuff and his entire family to move to an undisclosed location for an undetermined amount of time. God simply told Abraham to GO. THAT’S a tough choice! How’d he respond? What’d he do?
How will you respond?
What will you do?
THOSE choices that you’d rather not make.
THOSE choices that you’d prefer see disappear.
THOSE choices that you’d like to ignore.
THOSE choices that keep you up at night and wake you up early in the morning.
THOSE choices that make your heart rate jump and eye twitch and skin sweat.
THOSE choices.
Life is full them. You can’t escape them (though you’d like to…heck, I’d like to). And it’s these choices, the really REALLY hard ones, that typically lead to something unimaginably AWESOME in the end! Like, you gotta go through the CRAP to get to the BLESSING (tweet that).
So, what are the tough choices you’re facing today? What are the decisions looming overhead stealing your rest, your peace, and your joy?
God once told a guy to pack up all his stuff and his entire family to move to an undisclosed location for an undetermined amount of time. God simply told Abraham to GO. THAT’S a tough choice! How’d he respond? What’d he do?
How will you respond?
What will you do?
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who struggles with pride and codependency.
LAST WEEK:
Sponsor. That was the title of last week’s lesson. Our Ministry Leader, Steve, asked some difficult questions…
If you missed it, you might be asking yourself, what IS a sponsor? A sponsor is someone who can guide you through the program…a coach…a mentor. Remember, you cannot do life ALONE. It’s time to get serious about your recovery, about your LIFE. Get a sponsor.
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at Celebrate Recovery! This week Joe shares his story. We all know someone who has struggled with addiction, chances are YOU’VE struggled or are struggling (notice the present tense). Addiction can and will destroy your marriage, your kids, and your life. Join us this Friday to hear a story of OVERCOMING addiction by finding VICTORY in Christ! Discover how Celebrate Recovery is the right place for YOU and catch a glimpse of the PEACE and JOY that’s waiting for you.
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 3 things I want to share with you…
#1 Home Run—this weekend is the release of Home Run! Friday, April 19 is OPENING DAY. People will discover they are not the mistakes they’ve made, the labels they’ve been given, the struggles they have, the abuse they’ve experienced…NO…they’ll discover HOPE is real and FREEDOM is possible! Our Celebrate Recovery T.E.A.M. will have tickets on sale this Friday for 4 showings:
Saturday, April 20 | 4:45p and 7:30p
Sunday, April 21 | 4:45p and 7:30p
Tickets are normally $10.50; we’re selling them for $9.50. Start praying for the people you want to invite. Start praying for doors to open and conversations to take place. Get your tickets in faith believing God is going to do something NEW in their lives!
#2 Calendar—here are a few dates to mark down on your calendar:
Thursday, April 25 | 6-8:30p | Step Study Training
Thursday, May 9 | 6-8p | Testimony Workshop
Thursday, May 23 | 6-8:30p | New Leader Training
Thursday, June 13 | 6-8p | Testimony Workshop
Thursday, June 27 | 6-8:30p | Open-Share Training
#3 Step Study—Tonight is the LAST night our Men’s Step Study will be OPEN. We meet from 6:30-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428). Plans are currently in place to launch a new Men’s AND Women’s Step Study here in the next 1-2 months. After tonight all current Step Studies will be CLOSED.
THE END:
Pray for Home Run.
LAST WEEK:
Sponsor. That was the title of last week’s lesson. Our Ministry Leader, Steve, asked some difficult questions…
- Why do I need a sponsor or accountability partner?
- What are the qualities of a sponsor?
- What is the role of a sponsor?
- How do I find a sponsor or accountability partner?
- What is the difference between a sponsor and accountability partner?
If you missed it, you might be asking yourself, what IS a sponsor? A sponsor is someone who can guide you through the program…a coach…a mentor. Remember, you cannot do life ALONE. It’s time to get serious about your recovery, about your LIFE. Get a sponsor.
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at Celebrate Recovery! This week Joe shares his story. We all know someone who has struggled with addiction, chances are YOU’VE struggled or are struggling (notice the present tense). Addiction can and will destroy your marriage, your kids, and your life. Join us this Friday to hear a story of OVERCOMING addiction by finding VICTORY in Christ! Discover how Celebrate Recovery is the right place for YOU and catch a glimpse of the PEACE and JOY that’s waiting for you.
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 3 things I want to share with you…
#1 Home Run—this weekend is the release of Home Run! Friday, April 19 is OPENING DAY. People will discover they are not the mistakes they’ve made, the labels they’ve been given, the struggles they have, the abuse they’ve experienced…NO…they’ll discover HOPE is real and FREEDOM is possible! Our Celebrate Recovery T.E.A.M. will have tickets on sale this Friday for 4 showings:
Saturday, April 20 | 4:45p and 7:30p
Sunday, April 21 | 4:45p and 7:30p
Tickets are normally $10.50; we’re selling them for $9.50. Start praying for the people you want to invite. Start praying for doors to open and conversations to take place. Get your tickets in faith believing God is going to do something NEW in their lives!
#2 Calendar—here are a few dates to mark down on your calendar:
Thursday, April 25 | 6-8:30p | Step Study Training
Thursday, May 9 | 6-8p | Testimony Workshop
Thursday, May 23 | 6-8:30p | New Leader Training
Thursday, June 13 | 6-8p | Testimony Workshop
Thursday, June 27 | 6-8:30p | Open-Share Training
#3 Step Study—Tonight is the LAST night our Men’s Step Study will be OPEN. We meet from 6:30-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV 25428). Plans are currently in place to launch a new Men’s AND Women’s Step Study here in the next 1-2 months. After tonight all current Step Studies will be CLOSED.
THE END:
Pray for Home Run.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Set List 4.12/14.13
SPONSOR
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Greater—Elevation Worship
How He Loves—David Crowder*Band
Mighty to Save—Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 2 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Not For A Moment—Vertical Church
Forever Reign—Hillsong
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Greater—Elevation Worship
How He Loves—David Crowder*Band
Mighty to Save—Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 2 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Your Love Never Fails—Jesus Culture
Not For A Moment—Vertical Church
Forever Reign—Hillsong
Friday, April 12, 2013
Something's Gotta Stop And It Might Be You
It’s morning (or afternoon or night, depending on when you’re reading this).
You’ve got stuff to do.
There’s a routine to follow.
How many people do you need to call today?
How many meeting are on the schedule?
You’re almost done with that one project.
Crap…you haven’t started that other project.
You haven’t had your coffee yet.
Your kids need to get ready for school.
Why does it seem like one of your kids has disappeared.
There’s the bus.
Nobody’s ready.
Screaming.
Yelling.
Fighting.
Phone rings.
Dog barks.
You still need to get somewhere and soon.
There’s work that needs to be done.
You forget you crushed your kid’s spirit this morning.
You don’t realize that light was red.
You didn’t see the stop sign.
It’s only 8:30a…
And people wonder why you want to just quit sometimes. Let me tell you, quitting is NOT the answer. Quitting is the EASY way out of a problem that already has a SOLUTION; you just can’t see it yet. God sees it. In fact, God created the solution. He’s made a way OUT. He’s made a way THROUGH. Take a few deep breaths. Calm down. Sit up straight. Gain your composure. Focus.
You can do it. You can make it. You can finish whatever lies ahead because the God who lives in you says you CAN and WILL because HE can and will help you.
What are some of the things in your life that seem out of control? What is it about your current schedule that needs to change?
You’ve got stuff to do.
There’s a routine to follow.
How many people do you need to call today?
How many meeting are on the schedule?
You’re almost done with that one project.
Crap…you haven’t started that other project.
You haven’t had your coffee yet.
Your kids need to get ready for school.
Why does it seem like one of your kids has disappeared.
There’s the bus.
Nobody’s ready.
Screaming.
Yelling.
Fighting.
Phone rings.
Dog barks.
You still need to get somewhere and soon.
There’s work that needs to be done.
You forget you crushed your kid’s spirit this morning.
You don’t realize that light was red.
You didn’t see the stop sign.
It’s only 8:30a…
And people wonder why you want to just quit sometimes. Let me tell you, quitting is NOT the answer. Quitting is the EASY way out of a problem that already has a SOLUTION; you just can’t see it yet. God sees it. In fact, God created the solution. He’s made a way OUT. He’s made a way THROUGH. Take a few deep breaths. Calm down. Sit up straight. Gain your composure. Focus.
You can do it. You can make it. You can finish whatever lies ahead because the God who lives in you says you CAN and WILL because HE can and will help you.
What are some of the things in your life that seem out of control? What is it about your current schedule that needs to change?
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Busyness Does Not Equal Productivity
Busyness does not equal effectiveness.
Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean you’re making a difference. In fact, chances are, you’re just bad at time management and delegating responsibilities. Don’t worry; I’m not pointing a finger at anyone else but myself. I do and do and do and do and, when all’s said and done, I’m usually left wondering…what was the point?
Busyness does not equal success.
Chances are there’s a laundry list of things you DON’T need to be doing. Chances are your schedule CAN lighten up. Chances are you’re just a few steps away from INCREASING your productivity and DECREASING your activity.
Learn to do more by doing LESS.
What changes do you need to make in your schedule? What are some of the things you need to STOP doing? What are some of the things you need to LET GO? Who are you investing in?
Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean you’re making a difference. In fact, chances are, you’re just bad at time management and delegating responsibilities. Don’t worry; I’m not pointing a finger at anyone else but myself. I do and do and do and do and, when all’s said and done, I’m usually left wondering…what was the point?
Busyness does not equal success.
Chances are there’s a laundry list of things you DON’T need to be doing. Chances are your schedule CAN lighten up. Chances are you’re just a few steps away from INCREASING your productivity and DECREASING your activity.
Learn to do more by doing LESS.
What changes do you need to make in your schedule? What are some of the things you need to STOP doing? What are some of the things you need to LET GO? Who are you investing in?
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
I Can't Stay The Same, But I Don't Want To Change
You can’t get in the PRESENCE of God and STAY THE SAME.
You just can’t. He takes you from where you WERE and helps you get to where you NEED TO BE. Before you were born, before you were even an idea, God had plans for you to change the world…somewhere…somehow…someone.
And, opposed to popular belief, we ALL need to change. It doesn’t matter whether or not you’ve struggled with drugs, alcohol, pornography, food, sex, bitterness, unforgiveness, depression, abuse, divorce, debt, pride…there’s SOMETHING in your life, past or present, that needs a bit of renovation, needs a bit of change. But Nick, I haven’t struggled with any of that stuff. Right. Maybe you haven’t, but you’ve struggled with SOMETHING. Nobody’s perfect. What is it that’s holding you back?
Now your attitudes and thoughts must all be constantly changing for the better. Yes, you must be a new and different person.
Ephesians 4:23 TLB
And once you discover your THING, the thing that you need help with, the thing that needs to change in your life, DON’T TRY TO DO IT ON YOUR OWN. Let me make it easy for you…YOU CAN’T DO IT ALONE. I chuckle as I write this because I can say it all day long, I can shout it, I can sing, I can write it down and draw a diagram, but it won’t make a difference. YOU must realize your own POWERLESSNESS. We do not have the POWER to change, at least not by ourselves. The power to change is found in Christ (Philippians 4:13).
Are you the SAME?
Have you CHANGED?
Have you EXPERIENCED the presence of God?
You just can’t. He takes you from where you WERE and helps you get to where you NEED TO BE. Before you were born, before you were even an idea, God had plans for you to change the world…somewhere…somehow…someone.
And, opposed to popular belief, we ALL need to change. It doesn’t matter whether or not you’ve struggled with drugs, alcohol, pornography, food, sex, bitterness, unforgiveness, depression, abuse, divorce, debt, pride…there’s SOMETHING in your life, past or present, that needs a bit of renovation, needs a bit of change. But Nick, I haven’t struggled with any of that stuff. Right. Maybe you haven’t, but you’ve struggled with SOMETHING. Nobody’s perfect. What is it that’s holding you back?
Now your attitudes and thoughts must all be constantly changing for the better. Yes, you must be a new and different person.
Ephesians 4:23 TLB
And once you discover your THING, the thing that you need help with, the thing that needs to change in your life, DON’T TRY TO DO IT ON YOUR OWN. Let me make it easy for you…YOU CAN’T DO IT ALONE. I chuckle as I write this because I can say it all day long, I can shout it, I can sing, I can write it down and draw a diagram, but it won’t make a difference. YOU must realize your own POWERLESSNESS. We do not have the POWER to change, at least not by ourselves. The power to change is found in Christ (Philippians 4:13).
Are you the SAME?
Have you CHANGED?
Have you EXPERIENCED the presence of God?
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who struggles with pride and codependency.
LAST WEEK:
Last week was testimony week. Testimony week is ALWAYS a good week. It was testimony week when I discovered I’M NOT ALONE and FREEDOM IS REAL. It was testimony week when I discovered I CAN fight, I AM worth it, and VICTORY IS WITHIN REACH!
As if testimony week wasn’t enough…it was CHIP NIGHT! I absolutely LOVE celebrating VICTORIES! I don’t care how big or how small a victory…IT’S A V-I-C-T-O-R-Y! 24 hours, 30 days, 6 months, 8 years…victory, victory, victory, and victory! It was overwhelmed with the beauty of grace and mercy as person after person after person walked across the stage and picked up a sobriety chip. Definitely BLESSED to have been a part of such a GREAT night!
THIS WEEK:
This week the fertilizer hits the fan. Recovery is about to take a turn for the BETTER and kinda get in your face at the same time. This week Steve leads us through the lesson: SPONSOR. What is a sponsor? Why do I need one? Why do I want one? Yes, I just used the word WANT. It’s time to take accountability to the next level. It’s time to get BETTER!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 4 things I want you to know…
#1 Social Media—Hey! Guess what? Celebration Station and The Landing have made their way to Twitter and Facebook. Yes, you can now keep up-to-date with what’s happening in these AMAZING programs, read about NEEDS (volunteer positions, resources, etc.), and continue the conversation by answering questions posted throughout the week. FOLLOW them on Twitter, LIKE them on Facebook, and SHARE them with your friends and family!
Celebration Station:
https://www.facebook.com/NLCCWV.cs
https://twitter.com/nlccwv_cs
The Landing:
https://www.facebook.com/NLCCWV.landing
https://twitter.com/nlccwv_landing
#2 Video—Calling all videographers (people who know HOW TO MAKE MOVIES)! Got a camera? Know how to record audio? Know how to set up lighting? Know how to edit movies and make them AWESOME? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, I want YOU to help me record a NEWCOMERS video, TESTIMONIES at Celebrate Recovery, and possibly some promotional videos for CR, Celebration Station, and The Landing. Your service has the potential to reach hundreds, if not THOUSANDS of people…spreading HOPE to the hopeless.
#3 Step Study—Think about this statement, “Step Studies are the HEART of the Celebrate Recovery program.” Seriously, think about it. What is the function of the heart? What does it do? It pumps blood throughout the ENTIRE body, keeping you alive, strong, and healthy. Without it? You die. Step Studies are AMAZING! It’s in a Step Study you find out who you REALLY ARE and how to reach the potential of who you COULD BE. Learn what it means to be the SPOUSE you’re meant to be, the PARENT you’re meant to be, and the FRIEND you’re meant to be. In other words, discover the BEST you POSSIBLE!
The following groups are still OPEN:
Mondays 6:30-8:30p | Women’s Step Study | New Life Church
Tuesdays 6:30-8:30p | Men’s Step Study | New Life Church
#4 Testimony Workshop—Each week we’re seeing more and more people step through the doors of Celebrate Recovery. Each person that walks through those doors has a NAME. And each name as a STORY. And each story MATTERS TO GOD. YOUR story matters! This Thursday, April 11, from 6-8p, I will TEACH you and SHOW you how to SHARE your story. It’ll be the BEST 2 hours of your week. No registration. No sign-up. Simply show up. Bring something to write with and write on or possibly a laptop to type with…whatever you’re most comfortable writing with. Mark your calendars and be there.
THE END:
Quick plug #2…don’t miss the Testimony Workshop this Thursday, April 11 from 6-8p at New Life Church. Have a GREAT week!
LAST WEEK:
Last week was testimony week. Testimony week is ALWAYS a good week. It was testimony week when I discovered I’M NOT ALONE and FREEDOM IS REAL. It was testimony week when I discovered I CAN fight, I AM worth it, and VICTORY IS WITHIN REACH!
As if testimony week wasn’t enough…it was CHIP NIGHT! I absolutely LOVE celebrating VICTORIES! I don’t care how big or how small a victory…IT’S A V-I-C-T-O-R-Y! 24 hours, 30 days, 6 months, 8 years…victory, victory, victory, and victory! It was overwhelmed with the beauty of grace and mercy as person after person after person walked across the stage and picked up a sobriety chip. Definitely BLESSED to have been a part of such a GREAT night!
THIS WEEK:
This week the fertilizer hits the fan. Recovery is about to take a turn for the BETTER and kinda get in your face at the same time. This week Steve leads us through the lesson: SPONSOR. What is a sponsor? Why do I need one? Why do I want one? Yes, I just used the word WANT. It’s time to take accountability to the next level. It’s time to get BETTER!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 4 things I want you to know…
#1 Social Media—Hey! Guess what? Celebration Station and The Landing have made their way to Twitter and Facebook. Yes, you can now keep up-to-date with what’s happening in these AMAZING programs, read about NEEDS (volunteer positions, resources, etc.), and continue the conversation by answering questions posted throughout the week. FOLLOW them on Twitter, LIKE them on Facebook, and SHARE them with your friends and family!
Celebration Station:
https://www.facebook.com/NLCCWV.cs
https://twitter.com/nlccwv_cs
The Landing:
https://www.facebook.com/NLCCWV.landing
https://twitter.com/nlccwv_landing
#2 Video—Calling all videographers (people who know HOW TO MAKE MOVIES)! Got a camera? Know how to record audio? Know how to set up lighting? Know how to edit movies and make them AWESOME? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, I want YOU to help me record a NEWCOMERS video, TESTIMONIES at Celebrate Recovery, and possibly some promotional videos for CR, Celebration Station, and The Landing. Your service has the potential to reach hundreds, if not THOUSANDS of people…spreading HOPE to the hopeless.
#3 Step Study—Think about this statement, “Step Studies are the HEART of the Celebrate Recovery program.” Seriously, think about it. What is the function of the heart? What does it do? It pumps blood throughout the ENTIRE body, keeping you alive, strong, and healthy. Without it? You die. Step Studies are AMAZING! It’s in a Step Study you find out who you REALLY ARE and how to reach the potential of who you COULD BE. Learn what it means to be the SPOUSE you’re meant to be, the PARENT you’re meant to be, and the FRIEND you’re meant to be. In other words, discover the BEST you POSSIBLE!
The following groups are still OPEN:
Mondays 6:30-8:30p | Women’s Step Study | New Life Church
Tuesdays 6:30-8:30p | Men’s Step Study | New Life Church
#4 Testimony Workshop—Each week we’re seeing more and more people step through the doors of Celebrate Recovery. Each person that walks through those doors has a NAME. And each name as a STORY. And each story MATTERS TO GOD. YOUR story matters! This Thursday, April 11, from 6-8p, I will TEACH you and SHOW you how to SHARE your story. It’ll be the BEST 2 hours of your week. No registration. No sign-up. Simply show up. Bring something to write with and write on or possibly a laptop to type with…whatever you’re most comfortable writing with. Mark your calendars and be there.
THE END:
Quick plug #2…don’t miss the Testimony Workshop this Thursday, April 11 from 6-8p at New Life Church. Have a GREAT week!
Monday, April 8, 2013
God's Plans Are Greater
I wanted to take a few moments this morning to share with you something that I find to be incredibly ENCOURAGING…
I haven’t met a person yet that God doesn’t want to use to change the world.
That’s freakin’ AWESOME! It’s not because YOU are amazing; it’s because I know GOD is amazing! That’s right. It’s not about you and entirely about the God who CREATED you. It doesn’t matter whether or not you believe in Him, He doesn’t need you to, He WANTS you to, but His existence isn’t based on your belief…like I was saying…it doesn’t matter whether or not you believe in Him, He created you. He designed you with a specific PURPOSE and PLAN in mind.
That, by definition, is ENCOURAGEMENT!
So, right now, in spite of your circumstances, in spite of whatever it is you’re facing this morning, last night, whenever…God’s plans for your life have NEVER changed. He STILL sees you as a WORLD CHANGER. Don’t give up. Don’t stop. Dream BIGGER. Try HARDER.
There’s more POTENTIAL in your life than you know what to do with.
I haven’t met a person yet that God doesn’t want to use to change the world.
That’s freakin’ AWESOME! It’s not because YOU are amazing; it’s because I know GOD is amazing! That’s right. It’s not about you and entirely about the God who CREATED you. It doesn’t matter whether or not you believe in Him, He doesn’t need you to, He WANTS you to, but His existence isn’t based on your belief…like I was saying…it doesn’t matter whether or not you believe in Him, He created you. He designed you with a specific PURPOSE and PLAN in mind.
That, by definition, is ENCOURAGEMENT!
So, right now, in spite of your circumstances, in spite of whatever it is you’re facing this morning, last night, whenever…God’s plans for your life have NEVER changed. He STILL sees you as a WORLD CHANGER. Don’t give up. Don’t stop. Dream BIGGER. Try HARDER.
There’s more POTENTIAL in your life than you know what to do with.
Set List 4.5/7.13
TESTIMONY
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
You’re Everywhere—Third Day
Like A Lion—David Crowder*Band
God is Able—Hillsong
Mighty to Save—Hillsong
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 1 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
God You Are My God—Vertical Church
Greater—Elevation Worship
God is Able—Hillsong
Always—Kristian Stanfill
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
You’re Everywhere—Third Day
Like A Lion—David Crowder*Band
God is Able—Hillsong
Mighty to Save—Hillsong
SERIES: RIDICULOUS FAITH (Part 1 of 6)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
God You Are My God—Vertical Church
Greater—Elevation Worship
God is Able—Hillsong
Always—Kristian Stanfill
Friday, April 5, 2013
Progress Not Perfection
Ever have those mornings, or possibly moments, when you feel like you pretty much have it all figured out? You don’t know any more help. You don’t need to read another book. You don’t need to take another class. You don't need so and so to come over and show you how to anymore. You GOT IT! Ever have those moments?
I would like to suggest that, if you were honest, you’d agree that this happens more than you’d like to admit. I don’t care what it is, whether it’s baking a cake or writing web code, you’ve had moments when you believe you’ve become an EXPERT. You transitioned from the LEARNER to the TEACHER. You transitioned from the READER to the WRITER. What typically happens after you have this moment? Maybe you can’t answer this question because you’re still living in expert-mode, so you haven’t experienced what happens once you realize you’re NOT. Here are a few things that tend to happen…
#1 You’re Overwhelmed With Depression Instead of Overcoming In Victory—Once you convince yourself that you somehow GOT THIS or KNOW IT ALL or have become an EXPERT, it’s very difficult (try nearly impossible) to continue learning and continue growing…why? You don’t believe it’s necessary. After all…you already know what you need to know…right? Then reality sets in. SOMETHING happens. You realize you don’t know it all. You realize you’re not who you THOUGHT you were. It can be a tough transition to go from TEACHER to STUDENT. It’s a HUMBLING experience and one we don’t typically WANT to make, but NEED to. And it’s during this transition period that you might stand face-to-face with anxiety and depression. Instead of telling yourself, “I got this,” you start saying, “This isn’t for me,” or “I’ll never get this.” Philippians 4:13 is a GREAT verse to help fight the lies of self-doubt.
#2 It’s Easier To Quit Than To Start Over—Who wants to START OVER? I can remember playing the old Nintendo and when I’d reach a point when I was about to die or lose, I would get up and turn the thing OFF instead of starting over. I would just QUIT. Then what? What happens next? Nothing. That’s what happens. Nothing. The only thing quitting accomplishes is it helps us to REMAIN STUCK or FALL BACKWARDS. Like if the escalator broke, and you were in the middle, would you just shout, “Help! Help! Help!” Chances are you’d walk up or walk down, but either way, you’re MOVING…making PROGRESS. Don’t stop. Don’t quit. Keep moving. If you gotta start over…DO IT! Philippians 1:6 might help you KEEP GOING.
#3 What Will They Think Of Me?—Who cares? It’s not their journey. It’s not their life. It’s not their job. It’s not their ministry. I think you get where I’m going here. You gotta answer for YOU. If you live your life worrying about what OTHERS think, chances are you’ll NEVER take chances, NEVER do what you gotta do, NEVER actually live! Living in constant worry over what others think about you ISN’T LIVING AT ALL. It’s like living in a cave, all by yourself, miles away from other people, and doing nothing. Sounds fun, right? Not. Don’t fall into this trap. Don’t imprison yourself. Don’t do it. Philippians 4:6-7 is very clear about WHO’S opinion matters, WHO you belong to, and WHO’S gonna help you.
Remember, LEADERS are LEARNERS. You’ll never know it ALL or know ENOUGH. Keep striving for MORE. Keep READING. Keep STUDYING. Keep GROWING. Keep TRYING. Keep GOING! PROGRESS, not perfection.
I would like to suggest that, if you were honest, you’d agree that this happens more than you’d like to admit. I don’t care what it is, whether it’s baking a cake or writing web code, you’ve had moments when you believe you’ve become an EXPERT. You transitioned from the LEARNER to the TEACHER. You transitioned from the READER to the WRITER. What typically happens after you have this moment? Maybe you can’t answer this question because you’re still living in expert-mode, so you haven’t experienced what happens once you realize you’re NOT. Here are a few things that tend to happen…
#1 You’re Overwhelmed With Depression Instead of Overcoming In Victory—Once you convince yourself that you somehow GOT THIS or KNOW IT ALL or have become an EXPERT, it’s very difficult (try nearly impossible) to continue learning and continue growing…why? You don’t believe it’s necessary. After all…you already know what you need to know…right? Then reality sets in. SOMETHING happens. You realize you don’t know it all. You realize you’re not who you THOUGHT you were. It can be a tough transition to go from TEACHER to STUDENT. It’s a HUMBLING experience and one we don’t typically WANT to make, but NEED to. And it’s during this transition period that you might stand face-to-face with anxiety and depression. Instead of telling yourself, “I got this,” you start saying, “This isn’t for me,” or “I’ll never get this.” Philippians 4:13 is a GREAT verse to help fight the lies of self-doubt.
#2 It’s Easier To Quit Than To Start Over—Who wants to START OVER? I can remember playing the old Nintendo and when I’d reach a point when I was about to die or lose, I would get up and turn the thing OFF instead of starting over. I would just QUIT. Then what? What happens next? Nothing. That’s what happens. Nothing. The only thing quitting accomplishes is it helps us to REMAIN STUCK or FALL BACKWARDS. Like if the escalator broke, and you were in the middle, would you just shout, “Help! Help! Help!” Chances are you’d walk up or walk down, but either way, you’re MOVING…making PROGRESS. Don’t stop. Don’t quit. Keep moving. If you gotta start over…DO IT! Philippians 1:6 might help you KEEP GOING.
#3 What Will They Think Of Me?—Who cares? It’s not their journey. It’s not their life. It’s not their job. It’s not their ministry. I think you get where I’m going here. You gotta answer for YOU. If you live your life worrying about what OTHERS think, chances are you’ll NEVER take chances, NEVER do what you gotta do, NEVER actually live! Living in constant worry over what others think about you ISN’T LIVING AT ALL. It’s like living in a cave, all by yourself, miles away from other people, and doing nothing. Sounds fun, right? Not. Don’t fall into this trap. Don’t imprison yourself. Don’t do it. Philippians 4:6-7 is very clear about WHO’S opinion matters, WHO you belong to, and WHO’S gonna help you.
Remember, LEADERS are LEARNERS. You’ll never know it ALL or know ENOUGH. Keep striving for MORE. Keep READING. Keep STUDYING. Keep GROWING. Keep TRYING. Keep GOING! PROGRESS, not perfection.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
As A Parent, How Can I Find The Time?
What’s up parents? How are YOU doing today?
This week has been an interesting one. My kids are on Spring Break, mom and dad are not. So, this leaves us in a precarious situation…what do we do with a bunch of kids who want to do stuff while mom and dad cannot? The answer? Well, I think it’s gonna look different for EACH AND EVERYONE OF US, but overall, it’s going to be the same…MAKE TIME FOR THEM!
It’s that simple. Make time for him. Make time for her. Make time for them.
Your kids are one of the MOST IMPORTANT gifts in your life, right behind God and your spouse (that means if you’re not married, guess who’s #2?). Sure, your job provides for what seems to be life’s necessities…food in the fridge, clothes on your back, roof over your head, car to get from here to there, cable to watch all your favorite shows, and whatever else you do and like. But your kids are ALIVE and your kids are STARVING FOR YOUR ATTENTION.
How many times this week have you said, “Not right now, mommy is busy.”
How many times this week have you said, “Hold on, give daddy a minute, I’m almost done.”
How many times this week have you said, “Just go outside and play.”
How many times this week have you said, “Isn’t there something on TV for you to watch?”
How many times this week have you said, “Go play your games, what did I buy them for?
How many times this week have you said, “Uh huh. Mhmm. Uh huh.” (pretending to listen to your kids while really you’re just looking at your phone)
Before you know it, your kids will be searching for ATTENTION and ACCEPTANCE in all the WRONG places. Drugs won’t seem so bad. Sex won’t seem so bad. Alcohol won’t seem so bad. Stealing won’t seem so bad. Fights won’t seem so bad. The list goes on and on. YOU have the opportunity to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in their life TODAY! Here’s a few things YOU can start doing RIGHT NOW…
#1 Put Your Freakin’ Phone Away—Your kids want to see your face, not the back of your phone.
#2 Talk TO Your Kids, Not AT Them—Ask them how they’re doing. Start a conversation. Let them know you care. Help them put a voice to whatever it is they’re going through. Teach them how to express themselves in a HEALTHY way.
#3 Remember It’s Not The End Of The World—Kids mess us. Kids break stuff. Kids rip things. As long as someone isn’t dying, is it really that bad? Ok, teach them how to be responsible, but YELLING at them only causes them to FEAR you, not LEARN FROM you.
#4 Don’t SAY They’re More Important, SHOW Them—If you work 8 hours and then come home to work for another 5 hours, you’re inadvertently raising your kids to believe they are INSIGNIFICANT. If you, their mom and dad, don’t have time for them, who the heck will? If you want to raise CONFIDENT, STRONG kids, INVEST IN THEM!
Don’t wait until tomorrow, start TODAY!
This week has been an interesting one. My kids are on Spring Break, mom and dad are not. So, this leaves us in a precarious situation…what do we do with a bunch of kids who want to do stuff while mom and dad cannot? The answer? Well, I think it’s gonna look different for EACH AND EVERYONE OF US, but overall, it’s going to be the same…MAKE TIME FOR THEM!
It’s that simple. Make time for him. Make time for her. Make time for them.
Your kids are one of the MOST IMPORTANT gifts in your life, right behind God and your spouse (that means if you’re not married, guess who’s #2?). Sure, your job provides for what seems to be life’s necessities…food in the fridge, clothes on your back, roof over your head, car to get from here to there, cable to watch all your favorite shows, and whatever else you do and like. But your kids are ALIVE and your kids are STARVING FOR YOUR ATTENTION.
How many times this week have you said, “Not right now, mommy is busy.”
How many times this week have you said, “Hold on, give daddy a minute, I’m almost done.”
How many times this week have you said, “Just go outside and play.”
How many times this week have you said, “Isn’t there something on TV for you to watch?”
How many times this week have you said, “Go play your games, what did I buy them for?
How many times this week have you said, “Uh huh. Mhmm. Uh huh.” (pretending to listen to your kids while really you’re just looking at your phone)
Before you know it, your kids will be searching for ATTENTION and ACCEPTANCE in all the WRONG places. Drugs won’t seem so bad. Sex won’t seem so bad. Alcohol won’t seem so bad. Stealing won’t seem so bad. Fights won’t seem so bad. The list goes on and on. YOU have the opportunity to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in their life TODAY! Here’s a few things YOU can start doing RIGHT NOW…
#1 Put Your Freakin’ Phone Away—Your kids want to see your face, not the back of your phone.
#2 Talk TO Your Kids, Not AT Them—Ask them how they’re doing. Start a conversation. Let them know you care. Help them put a voice to whatever it is they’re going through. Teach them how to express themselves in a HEALTHY way.
#3 Remember It’s Not The End Of The World—Kids mess us. Kids break stuff. Kids rip things. As long as someone isn’t dying, is it really that bad? Ok, teach them how to be responsible, but YELLING at them only causes them to FEAR you, not LEARN FROM you.
#4 Don’t SAY They’re More Important, SHOW Them—If you work 8 hours and then come home to work for another 5 hours, you’re inadvertently raising your kids to believe they are INSIGNIFICANT. If you, their mom and dad, don’t have time for them, who the heck will? If you want to raise CONFIDENT, STRONG kids, INVEST IN THEM!
Don’t wait until tomorrow, start TODAY!
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
There's No Time Like Right Now
8but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 ESV
This verse is the epitome of ENCOURAGEMENT.
I don’t know what it says to you when you read it.
I don’t know what it speaks into your heart.
I don’t know how it makes you feel.
What I do know is that I was LOST, but now I’m FOUND.
I was all kinds of caught up in a MESS and God transformed it into His MESSAGE.
I know there are times I still struggle, still stumble, still try to wrestle back control of my life, and yet, in spite of all that, he died for me.
He died for me.
He died for you.
He died for all.
So, maybe you’ve been waiting to get right FIRST, like there’s something YOU need to do so God can finally accept you…
He’s already done it.
He died.
He didn’t wait for you to GET READY, He died BEFORE you were ready so you CAN get ready.
It’s because of HIM not you.
I find that to be encouraging!
What are you waiting for?
Romans 5:8 ESV
This verse is the epitome of ENCOURAGEMENT.
I don’t know what it says to you when you read it.
I don’t know what it speaks into your heart.
I don’t know how it makes you feel.
What I do know is that I was LOST, but now I’m FOUND.
I was all kinds of caught up in a MESS and God transformed it into His MESSAGE.
I know there are times I still struggle, still stumble, still try to wrestle back control of my life, and yet, in spite of all that, he died for me.
He died for me.
He died for you.
He died for all.
So, maybe you’ve been waiting to get right FIRST, like there’s something YOU need to do so God can finally accept you…
He’s already done it.
He died.
He didn’t wait for you to GET READY, He died BEFORE you were ready so you CAN get ready.
It’s because of HIM not you.
I find that to be encouraging!
What are you waiting for?
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
A Letter to Celebrate Recovery
Hello, my name is Nick and I’m a grateful believer in Jesus Christ who struggles with pride and codependency.
LAST WEEK:
Last week we launched into Principle 4 and Step 4…
Principle 4: Openly examine and confess my faults to myself, to God, and to someone I trust.
Step 4: We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
Dang, right? The old mascot for Cheetos had it all wrong, I don’t know if you remember him or not, but he had the slogan, “It’s not easy being cheesy.” Wrong. I would like to suggest it’s much BETTER stated, “It’s not easy being HONEST.” It’s not EASY, but it’s WORTH IT!
In case you missed it, here’s a recap of the lesson…
Make time
Open
Rely
Analyze
List
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at CR this week! I’m ALWAYS excited about testimony night because for many of us it’s that one night when we discover WE’RE NOT ALONE! Too many of us stay stuck in our PAST, unable to enjoy our PRESENT, and definitely not looking forward to our FUTURE. And it seems like once we hear that SOMEONE ELSE has found freedom from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups something clicks and we realize the same can happen with US!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 3 things I’d like to share with you…
#1 Men’s Step Study—This group meets every Tuesday night from 6:30-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Rd., Inwood, WV 25428). Men, this is the BEST resource available for discovering what it means to be a husband and father and just all around LEADER. This group is OPEN for 2 more weeks. No need to sign up, just SHOW UP.
#2 Testimony Workshop—I mentioned from the stage a few weeks back that a Testimony Workshop would be placed on the calendar and BAM…it is! Next Thursday (April 11 | 6-8p) I’ll be hosting the workshop at New Life Church (nlccwv.org). It’s such an AMAZING time! Learn how to write and communicate your testimony in a 15-20min format. Discover how to transfer your story from inside your head to pen & paper (or printer ink & paper). If interested, please email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org so I can prepare enough materials.
#3 Celebration Station—And last, but definitely NOT least…Celebration Station needs your HELP! More and more kids continue piling into our classrooms (including a LOT of preschool age kids) and our volunteers are starting to get outnumbered! We’re going to have to start turning away kids in order to maintain a SAFE ratio of leaders to kids. Are you PASSIONATE about kids? Do kids CONNECT with you? Are you FUN? Then you just might be who we’re looking for! We meet every Friday from 6:45-9p and your HELP would make a BIG and IMMEDIATE difference! If interested, please email celebrationstation@nlccwv.org and someone will get back to you right away.
THE END:
I don’t know about you, but I think problems with GROWTH are AWESOME! And I believe, with Home Run the Movie hitting theaters on April 19 (Yes, it will be at Regal Cinemas in Martinsburg, WV), we’re going to see a lot MORE people walk through those doors searching and seeking FREEDOM! It’s time to GET READY! The BEST is yet to come!
LAST WEEK:
Last week we launched into Principle 4 and Step 4…
Principle 4: Openly examine and confess my faults to myself, to God, and to someone I trust.
Step 4: We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
Dang, right? The old mascot for Cheetos had it all wrong, I don’t know if you remember him or not, but he had the slogan, “It’s not easy being cheesy.” Wrong. I would like to suggest it’s much BETTER stated, “It’s not easy being HONEST.” It’s not EASY, but it’s WORTH IT!
In case you missed it, here’s a recap of the lesson…
Make time
Open
Rely
Analyze
List
THIS WEEK:
It’s TESTIMONY night at CR this week! I’m ALWAYS excited about testimony night because for many of us it’s that one night when we discover WE’RE NOT ALONE! Too many of us stay stuck in our PAST, unable to enjoy our PRESENT, and definitely not looking forward to our FUTURE. And it seems like once we hear that SOMEONE ELSE has found freedom from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups something clicks and we realize the same can happen with US!
NEWS & UPDATES:
Here are 3 things I’d like to share with you…
#1 Men’s Step Study—This group meets every Tuesday night from 6:30-8:30p at New Life Church (4102 Tabler Station Rd., Inwood, WV 25428). Men, this is the BEST resource available for discovering what it means to be a husband and father and just all around LEADER. This group is OPEN for 2 more weeks. No need to sign up, just SHOW UP.
#2 Testimony Workshop—I mentioned from the stage a few weeks back that a Testimony Workshop would be placed on the calendar and BAM…it is! Next Thursday (April 11 | 6-8p) I’ll be hosting the workshop at New Life Church (nlccwv.org). It’s such an AMAZING time! Learn how to write and communicate your testimony in a 15-20min format. Discover how to transfer your story from inside your head to pen & paper (or printer ink & paper). If interested, please email celebraterecovery@nlccwv.org so I can prepare enough materials.
#3 Celebration Station—And last, but definitely NOT least…Celebration Station needs your HELP! More and more kids continue piling into our classrooms (including a LOT of preschool age kids) and our volunteers are starting to get outnumbered! We’re going to have to start turning away kids in order to maintain a SAFE ratio of leaders to kids. Are you PASSIONATE about kids? Do kids CONNECT with you? Are you FUN? Then you just might be who we’re looking for! We meet every Friday from 6:45-9p and your HELP would make a BIG and IMMEDIATE difference! If interested, please email celebrationstation@nlccwv.org and someone will get back to you right away.
THE END:
I don’t know about you, but I think problems with GROWTH are AWESOME! And I believe, with Home Run the Movie hitting theaters on April 19 (Yes, it will be at Regal Cinemas in Martinsburg, WV), we’re going to see a lot MORE people walk through those doors searching and seeking FREEDOM! It’s time to GET READY! The BEST is yet to come!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Set List 3.29/31.13
MORAL
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Open the Eyes of My Heart—Sonicflood
All Because of Jesus—Fee
You’re Everywhere—Third Day
God is Able—Hillsong
SERIES: REFLECTIONS (Part 3 of 3)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Alive Again—Hillsong
God You Are My God—Vertical Church
Man In The Mirror—Michael Jackson
Greater—Elevation Worship
Celebrate Recovery: Fridays 7p
Open the Eyes of My Heart—Sonicflood
All Because of Jesus—Fee
You’re Everywhere—Third Day
God is Able—Hillsong
SERIES: REFLECTIONS (Part 3 of 3)
Weekend Experience: Sundays 8:15, 9:45, 11:15a
Alive Again—Hillsong
God You Are My God—Vertical Church
Man In The Mirror—Michael Jackson
Greater—Elevation Worship
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