A few months ago, my family was taking a trip. To be honest, I don't even remember where we were going. During the ride, I was just relaxing, listening to music, and thinking. Somehow, I started thinking about the impact of Google. It's not a website anymore, it's a way of life. It's not only a company, it's a verb. The impact it's had on the way people learn is amazing. We truly are in what the Bible prophesied, the age of information. Need to know how to change your car's oil? Google it. Need to know how to tie a tie? Google it. I don't care what any "old school" educators might say, Google enhances problem solving.
As I sat in the car, I said out loud, "What if we had a question about something before Google existed? What did people do before it?" Within 3 seconds, my mom (who is an elementary principal) gave me an answer much longer than I was interested in hearing. She explained that you could have gone to a library or found an encyclopedia. I accepted the answer, without response. Now it was my dad's turn. Completely serious, he responded to my question with, "Well, I guess you just never knew the answer to the question!" As you can imagine, mom and I about died laughing.
There are a few questions though, that even Google cannot answer. I mean decisions that impact your life in a major way. Google cannot tell you the decision to make in one of life's turning points. This is why discerning God during the seasons of your life is extremely important.
According to dictionary.com, discerning is, "showing good or outstanding judgment and understanding."
In my opinion, discerning is one of the greatest advantages of being a Christian. People throughout the world spend millions trying to find answers to life's questions. Unfortunately, the answers will never be found where they are looking.
“And of the children
of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times -1st Chronicles 12:32
The Sons of Issachar are probably my favorite group in the bible. For personal reasons, I have tried to learn everything about them over the last couple years. There is so much to learn from their way of life.
So how do you "discern" or understand God in your life? I think the first step is prayer. For example, instead of asking a relative for advice, shouldn't you be asking God? Why not ask the Truth for the answer? The greatest aspect of discernment, you can ask God for advice about anything. Do you audibly hear God? I hope you don't. If you do, you're probably on PCP. In all seriousness, you'll know what God is leading you towards. Sometimes you'll find the answer to your question in the bible. You might just walk into a person that will unknowingly be the answer. Maybe you'll have one of life's "amazing God moments!" The moments that make you say, WOW!
A few weeks ago, I had one of the "God moments". Sitting on the beach, I was listening to music and worried about an upcoming situation. As I sat there, I finally just prayed, "God, I need your answer and wisdom in my finances. I need to know what decision to make." The next morning, I woke up to a text from my mom. The text was about the exact situation. She was worried about the same thing. My mom never really says much about this particular topic. That's what gave me complete confidence that God was giving me His answer. From that moment on, I knew the decision that had to be made.
A few weeks later, I sat in my room, in complete amazement of God. Had I not made the decision, it would have been costly for my family. I thought, "There are so many things going on in this world, and You helped me with finances." It was one of the moments in my life that I will never forget.
I truly believe that being able to discern the seasons of your life is extremely important. Let's face it, life is hard. Without being able to lean on God for tough decisions, you will never survive.
I encourage you to read into the Sons of Issachar. Here is the link:
http://www.battleaxe.org/Issachar.html
Sep 14, 2011
Sep 7, 2011
The Devil is Trying to Kill You
Harsh words? Probably. True words? Yes.
This past week at church, our preacher said something that might have scared some people. "Michael, the devil is trying to kill YOU." It wasn't a rehtorical question, it was specifically spoken at me. I wouldn't say it scared me, but it definitely got me thinking.
It is pretty common knowledge that the devil uses all kinds of tactics to tempt us. Temptations come in a Jack Daniel's bottle, mansions, and tight jeans. It's no secret that he'll use anything to push us farther away from God.
But kill me? Yes! The devil just doesn't want us to sin, he wants to destroy our lives. A simple sin, might not lead us away from God. Completely wiping out everything in our lives? Now, a situation like that, might alter our faith.
The devil doesn't want to cause problems in your family. He wants to destroy it. The devil doesn't want you to use cocain. He wants you to kill an innocent person, in an attempted robbery, to pay for it. The devil doesn't want you to desert your child. He wants you to molest your child.
I hope you understand that the devil is not just some "enemy" that many Christians claim. He is the devil (eat your heart out CNN). He is a murderer, liar, and thief. He doesn't want to discourage you, he wants to ruin the rest of your life.
I sat in church last Sunday thinking, "The devil wants to kill me? That must mean I'm capable of achieving things only fathomable by God." It's the same way for everyone else. Every single person has some talent that NO OTHER PERSON in the world has. If we let the devil destroy our lives we most likely will never reach those Heights!
There's great news though. We know who wins! The devil must feel like I do when I record Survivor. It happens to me all the time. I clearly remember to dvr the week's episode, then proceed to walk back into the house at 8:57, at the same time Jeff Probst reads the final vote. Let me emphasize, that I love Survivor! It kills me when the episode gets spoiled.
The devil knows the Spoiler of his life! He never defeats God. Not in the past, not in the future. Therefore, the devil can't kill us unless we let him. We are on the winning team every single time!
This past week at church, our preacher said something that might have scared some people. "Michael, the devil is trying to kill YOU." It wasn't a rehtorical question, it was specifically spoken at me. I wouldn't say it scared me, but it definitely got me thinking.
It is pretty common knowledge that the devil uses all kinds of tactics to tempt us. Temptations come in a Jack Daniel's bottle, mansions, and tight jeans. It's no secret that he'll use anything to push us farther away from God.
But kill me? Yes! The devil just doesn't want us to sin, he wants to destroy our lives. A simple sin, might not lead us away from God. Completely wiping out everything in our lives? Now, a situation like that, might alter our faith.
The devil doesn't want to cause problems in your family. He wants to destroy it. The devil doesn't want you to use cocain. He wants you to kill an innocent person, in an attempted robbery, to pay for it. The devil doesn't want you to desert your child. He wants you to molest your child.
I hope you understand that the devil is not just some "enemy" that many Christians claim. He is the devil (eat your heart out CNN). He is a murderer, liar, and thief. He doesn't want to discourage you, he wants to ruin the rest of your life.
I sat in church last Sunday thinking, "The devil wants to kill me? That must mean I'm capable of achieving things only fathomable by God." It's the same way for everyone else. Every single person has some talent that NO OTHER PERSON in the world has. If we let the devil destroy our lives we most likely will never reach those Heights!
There's great news though. We know who wins! The devil must feel like I do when I record Survivor. It happens to me all the time. I clearly remember to dvr the week's episode, then proceed to walk back into the house at 8:57, at the same time Jeff Probst reads the final vote. Let me emphasize, that I love Survivor! It kills me when the episode gets spoiled.
The devil knows the Spoiler of his life! He never defeats God. Not in the past, not in the future. Therefore, the devil can't kill us unless we let him. We are on the winning team every single time!
Aug 15, 2011
Fear Enterprises
Hey Everyone,
It's a little change of pace, but I'd really appreciate it if you'd help spread the word on Fear Enterprises.
https://www.facebook.com/mfear#!/pages/Fear-Enterprises/193832530677677
Please like our page!
It's a little change of pace, but I'd really appreciate it if you'd help spread the word on Fear Enterprises.
https://www.facebook.com/mfear#!/pages/Fear-Enterprises/193832530677677
Please like our page!
Need to sell your car? Are you planning on having a yard sale? Make sure you set up at one of the best locations in Ripley County. The lot spaces are located by the stoplight where Highway 421 and 50 meet in Versailles, IN. These lot spaces are specifically located right beside Butternut Bread in Versailles.
The lots can be used for Yard Sales, Cars, Trucks, RV’s, Tractors, Golf Carts, Boats and Much More. All possibilities for these lot spaces have been proven successful. Yard sales make more money at this location because of the high exposure. An expensive RV was sold in 3 days! Tractors can be sold in a single day.
The lot spaces can be used at any time with varying rates. Feel free to call or email anytime!
Jul 22, 2011
Hold On, The Best is Yet to Come!
"College years are the best time of your life! I'll tell you what, high school is the best time of your life!"
Nothing bothers me more than those two phrases. I heard it after I graduated high school and found college to be ALOT more fun. Give me 4 more years, and I guarantee I'll disagree with the college phrase as well. Let me explain....
Our hometown preacher says, "Hold on, the best is yet to come" every single week. I have yet to hear another phrase that places a greater importance on our future. I always sit and think that the topic is much greater than the high school to college years. Recently, I tweeted that someone could write an entire book on the topic of "hold on the best is yet to come". Why? Because everyone is concerned with their future. I honestly don't think that the majority of people expect good things to happen to them.
Want an example? There have been many times throughout my life that my mom has mentioned she was going to ask for help on a certain task. I used to always think, "Why would they help? They won't want to or they'll be too busy." Not her though, she'll ask. 95% of the time, she will get the help.
It's a great example of expecting good things to happen. She expects that people will help her. Without realizing it, her positive outlook has a positive effect on the people around her.
This is something that everyone can apply. God did not create us to live to 22, then stop enjoying life. He did not create us to turn 50 and stop pursuing dreams. Our preacher is in his sixties and continues to emphasize that the "best is yet to come". Not only is he still following his purpose, but he's got heaven to look forward to!
For some reason, our society has accepted that after certain life milestones, it's over. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Our God has given everyone a purpose that only they can perform. What's the greatest part of that? It never ends! Every single day, we can wake up and expect our life to get better!
I don't know about you, but I will not accept anything less! Step out On The Water and expect great things to happen!
He told them, "Because of your lack of faith. I tell you with certainty, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. - Matthew 17:20
Nothing bothers me more than those two phrases. I heard it after I graduated high school and found college to be ALOT more fun. Give me 4 more years, and I guarantee I'll disagree with the college phrase as well. Let me explain....
Our hometown preacher says, "Hold on, the best is yet to come" every single week. I have yet to hear another phrase that places a greater importance on our future. I always sit and think that the topic is much greater than the high school to college years. Recently, I tweeted that someone could write an entire book on the topic of "hold on the best is yet to come". Why? Because everyone is concerned with their future. I honestly don't think that the majority of people expect good things to happen to them.
Want an example? There have been many times throughout my life that my mom has mentioned she was going to ask for help on a certain task. I used to always think, "Why would they help? They won't want to or they'll be too busy." Not her though, she'll ask. 95% of the time, she will get the help.
It's a great example of expecting good things to happen. She expects that people will help her. Without realizing it, her positive outlook has a positive effect on the people around her.
This is something that everyone can apply. God did not create us to live to 22, then stop enjoying life. He did not create us to turn 50 and stop pursuing dreams. Our preacher is in his sixties and continues to emphasize that the "best is yet to come". Not only is he still following his purpose, but he's got heaven to look forward to!
For some reason, our society has accepted that after certain life milestones, it's over. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Our God has given everyone a purpose that only they can perform. What's the greatest part of that? It never ends! Every single day, we can wake up and expect our life to get better!
I don't know about you, but I will not accept anything less! Step out On The Water and expect great things to happen!
He told them, "Because of your lack of faith. I tell you with certainty, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. - Matthew 17:20
May 13, 2011
Why God Says No
Are you reading this post hoping to find the answer to, “Why God Says No”? I’m going to go ahead and tell you, I don’t know! Trust me, I wish I did know! As a Christian, I believe this is the toughest question to comprehend. Even tougher than having faith God exists? Yeah, I really think so.
What am I getting at? I’m talking about the roughest parts of your life. A time when praying is painful. A time when praying is your only solution. A time when praying is your last resort.
“God, I need this job! My family won’t be able to eat!”
“God, I don’t even smoke, and You gave me Cancer?”
“I’ve done this for You, and You took my wife?”
These moments can make you doubt everything about this “God” of yours. Is He even hearing my prayers? If so, why did this not happen the way I wanted it to? This is not the way my dream was supposed to end!
I’ve wondered the answers to those questions MANY times. Thankfully, a few months ago, I heard a song that has forever changed the way I view life’s trials. A tune that has been referred to as the most powerful Christian song in years! So influential, that it made iTunes most popular singles, an absolutely remarkable achievement for a Christian artist! In an area where the common names are Lil Wayne, Rihanna, and Katy Perry, a Christian song stood.
The chorus of Laura Story’s song, Blessings:
Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
Wow, why isn’t God answering my prayers? I think every situation is completely different, but I do think there is one common notion. God’s way is better than our way! He knows the best path for us.
Did it take pain and trials to know God was near? Personally, this is how I’ve always been affected.
Laura Story says it perfectly:
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
This is how God gets to me. He knows the only way to get my attention is to completely tear everything down. He knows that everything has to fade away, for me to truly be dependent on Him. Is He blessing me by not giving me what I want?
We all pray for God to take away the pain. Why does he say no? Nobody knows, but He does. Maybe these moments make you stronger. Maybe these rough patches in life are molding you for your future. Or maybe God knows what is truly better for you!
I’ve posted the song and her opinion on the song (an absolute must see!)
Apr 24, 2011
Carrie Underwood singing How Great Thou Art....MUST SEE!!
Wow, what an amazing job she did with this song! You have to watch this video!
Apr 14, 2011
When Life Sucks!
It will happen to everyone. You don't know when, where, or how it will hit you. Lets face it though, it will happen! I'm talking about the times in life that you absolutely hate. Basically, I'm talking about the times where life (for lack of a better word) sucks.
I'm going to say it again, storms will come! They can hit us to the core of our faith. They can be so bad that it makes you question this whole "God" thing. I'll be the first to admit that I've been there.
"I haven't missed church in 5 years God, and you let this happen?!"
"I've taught Sunday School kids about You for years. You're gonna give this to me?"
"If my life is going to be this bad, I might as well do what I want."
Don't act like you haven't been there. These are the moments that can shake your entire life to its core. You search for answers for your problems. You question whether God sees your tears. You pray for God to come and intervene. You feel like the "storm" is lasting forever.
What do you do?
One of the most important things to understand is that God is here to help. He never said life would be easy, but that He would be with us. He also never promised that life would be void of trials, but that He would never leave.
What is the single most important thing to remember?
As hard as it can be, trusting that your life is in the right hands is vital. The "storms of life" will make you question everything you've ever believed in.
I think Britt Nicole, a christian artist, said it best:
"So I'll stop searching for the answers,
I`ll stop praying for an escape,
And I'll trust You,God, with where I am,
And believe that You will have Your way.
Just have Your way."
Why should we let God have His way in our lives? The reason is because His way is better than our way. The path that He sets us on is much better than anything we could imagine.
We probably won't understand why we are in the horrible circumstances. God might not ever get us out of them. The good news though, is that the circumstances are greater than we can understand. God's plan will triumph and prevail in all circumstances. We are under the purpose of the One whose understanding no one can fathom.
Next time you enter one of life's "storms", remember to let God have His way.
I'm going to say it again, storms will come! They can hit us to the core of our faith. They can be so bad that it makes you question this whole "God" thing. I'll be the first to admit that I've been there.
"I haven't missed church in 5 years God, and you let this happen?!"
"I've taught Sunday School kids about You for years. You're gonna give this to me?"
"If my life is going to be this bad, I might as well do what I want."
Don't act like you haven't been there. These are the moments that can shake your entire life to its core. You search for answers for your problems. You question whether God sees your tears. You pray for God to come and intervene. You feel like the "storm" is lasting forever.
What do you do?
One of the most important things to understand is that God is here to help. He never said life would be easy, but that He would be with us. He also never promised that life would be void of trials, but that He would never leave.
What is the single most important thing to remember?
As hard as it can be, trusting that your life is in the right hands is vital. The "storms of life" will make you question everything you've ever believed in.
I think Britt Nicole, a christian artist, said it best:
"So I'll stop searching for the answers,
I`ll stop praying for an escape,
And I'll trust You,God, with where I am,
And believe that You will have Your way.
Just have Your way."
Why should we let God have His way in our lives? The reason is because His way is better than our way. The path that He sets us on is much better than anything we could imagine.
We probably won't understand why we are in the horrible circumstances. God might not ever get us out of them. The good news though, is that the circumstances are greater than we can understand. God's plan will triumph and prevail in all circumstances. We are under the purpose of the One whose understanding no one can fathom.
Next time you enter one of life's "storms", remember to let God have His way.
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