Today is the last day of 2007 (like you couldn't figure that one out). This past year has brought about many good things in my life. Over the last few days I have shared some of those things with you.
I wish I could sit here today and tell you that my walk with Christ is where it ought to be, my relationship with my wife is where it should be, my work effort is where it should be, and that life is all and well. However, I just can't tell you that.
The fact is I hope that it never will be. See, if I ever get to the point where all of the above is where I want it to be then I have stopped growing as a person. When we become satisfied with where we are at, it is at that point we lose perspective in this life. When we think we are where we need to be with our walk with Christ, we tend to not read, pray, tithe, or witness like we should. When I think my relationship with my wife is where it needs to be, then I stop doing the little things that make her happy, I stop caring for her feelings, I stop thinking about her and start thinking about me. When I think I am working like I should, I stop visioning what God has in store, I stop contacting like I should, and I spend way to much time on YouTube.
The point is this. We should never be satisfied with where we are at in our life. We should always want to serve Christ more, love our spouses more, and work harder than ever before.
In 2008 I want to draw closer to Christ then ever before, I want wife to know and feel that she is the most important thing to me, and I want to work harder than I have ever worked in my life.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Thursday, December 27, 2007
The Good and Not So Good: Part 2
2007 was a great year for Erin and I. Through this year we experienced many ups and a few downs. All and all this has been a great year. Tonight I sit in a room with all of Erin's family.
We are so blessed to have family. For many people they are not as blessed as we are to have so many loving people to care about them. WE ARE!!! My family and Erin's family have been so great during our short time of marriage.
The Good #2- This year Erin and I were able to go on several trips to Tenn. (mostly for Erin to shop) but also just to get away. We also spent a week at the beach with my family. It was a great week (even when our banana boat flipped out in shark land).
This year God has blessed us in so many ways. As this year ends we are truly blessed.
The Bad #2- There were so many things that happened in our world this past year. One story that makes me mad even today is the Michael Vick story. What makes me mad has nothing to do with Vick himself. Here is the #2 bad thing from this year. The fact that everybody in the world wanted Vick crucified for the way he treated his dogs, yet those same people allow hundreds of unborn babies to be killed everyday. That makes me sick. Don't get me wrong what Vick did was wrong, however we are in serious trouble in America when we put the lives of dogs more important then human life itself.
We are so blessed to have family. For many people they are not as blessed as we are to have so many loving people to care about them. WE ARE!!! My family and Erin's family have been so great during our short time of marriage.
The Good #2- This year Erin and I were able to go on several trips to Tenn. (mostly for Erin to shop) but also just to get away. We also spent a week at the beach with my family. It was a great week (even when our banana boat flipped out in shark land).
This year God has blessed us in so many ways. As this year ends we are truly blessed.
The Bad #2- There were so many things that happened in our world this past year. One story that makes me mad even today is the Michael Vick story. What makes me mad has nothing to do with Vick himself. Here is the #2 bad thing from this year. The fact that everybody in the world wanted Vick crucified for the way he treated his dogs, yet those same people allow hundreds of unborn babies to be killed everyday. That makes me sick. Don't get me wrong what Vick did was wrong, however we are in serious trouble in America when we put the lives of dogs more important then human life itself.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas
Just wanted to wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
May God bless you on this most Holy Day!!!!
May God bless you on this most Holy Day!!!!
Friday, December 21, 2007
The Good and Not so Good
As I countdown to the greatest moment and not so greatest moments of this year I will start with the number 3 and then countdown to number 1.
Today I will reflect on sports. Erin says that I am obsessed with this concept. I say its my getaway from life. I don't which one of us is right, but I do know this. I am a die hard Gamecock. Don't misunderstand me, the Gamecocks are not the top priority in my life (Jesus and Erin would be at the top), but I do keep up with just about everything that goes on in Columbia. So as we countdown, I will talk about the Gamecocks today, and Jesus and Erin was the year ends.
The good #3- The gamecocks opened up the 2007 football season on a roll. For once would this be the year that we actually went through a whole season playing good football. With a 5th year Senior QB, a hard nosed running back, all conference defensive players, this is going to one special year. To top it off, Erin let me buy season tickets for the first time in my life. It all started on the first Saturday in September with a win over ULL . The next Saturday we go down between the hedges and beat those Bulldogs (2-0). The following Saturday SC State comes to town (3-0). The Gamecocks are now in the top 25 heading down to face the #2 team in the nation. The Gamecocks lose to LSU (not the end of the world) and fall to 3-1 and the schedule is shaping up nice. Next up was the Bulldogs of Mississippi State (Gamecocks win 4-1). The Gamecocks are now ranked #11 and host Kentucky on Thursday night. After a quick ran shower, two Eric Norwood defensive TDs, the Gamecocks have won the game and move into the top 10 at #8 in the country. Then it happened.
The Bad #3- The gamecocks head to Chapel Hill, NC to show who the real Carolina is. The first half could be listed under the good part of this review, however what happened in the second half proved to be the first crack in what turn out to be a very disappointing season. The Gamecocks lead 21-3 going into halftime only to hold on to a 21-16 victory (6-1 and ranked #6). What happened next is still a blur. Vandy comes to town and lays the smack down on us, we go to UT make a big comeback and take the lead only to get beat in OT, Arkansas is still running on our defense, Tebow is still scoring TDs, and then Clemson comes into town where we blow yet another lead and get beat on a last second field goal. After that we are 6-6, not going to a bowl game, and we are going to have to listen to all the Clemson crap for another 365 days.
In 2008 the Gamecocks should be much improved with a new DC (defensive coordinator), special teams coach, and lots of returning starters. OH, did I forget to mention that Steve Spurrier is still our head coach. The only question mark for this team will be at QB. Other than that, maybe just maybe it will be one heck of a year for Gamecock Football.
Today I will reflect on sports. Erin says that I am obsessed with this concept. I say its my getaway from life. I don't which one of us is right, but I do know this. I am a die hard Gamecock. Don't misunderstand me, the Gamecocks are not the top priority in my life (Jesus and Erin would be at the top), but I do keep up with just about everything that goes on in Columbia. So as we countdown, I will talk about the Gamecocks today, and Jesus and Erin was the year ends.
The good #3- The gamecocks opened up the 2007 football season on a roll. For once would this be the year that we actually went through a whole season playing good football. With a 5th year Senior QB, a hard nosed running back, all conference defensive players, this is going to one special year. To top it off, Erin let me buy season tickets for the first time in my life. It all started on the first Saturday in September with a win over ULL . The next Saturday we go down between the hedges and beat those Bulldogs (2-0). The following Saturday SC State comes to town (3-0). The Gamecocks are now in the top 25 heading down to face the #2 team in the nation. The Gamecocks lose to LSU (not the end of the world) and fall to 3-1 and the schedule is shaping up nice. Next up was the Bulldogs of Mississippi State (Gamecocks win 4-1). The Gamecocks are now ranked #11 and host Kentucky on Thursday night. After a quick ran shower, two Eric Norwood defensive TDs, the Gamecocks have won the game and move into the top 10 at #8 in the country. Then it happened.
The Bad #3- The gamecocks head to Chapel Hill, NC to show who the real Carolina is. The first half could be listed under the good part of this review, however what happened in the second half proved to be the first crack in what turn out to be a very disappointing season. The Gamecocks lead 21-3 going into halftime only to hold on to a 21-16 victory (6-1 and ranked #6). What happened next is still a blur. Vandy comes to town and lays the smack down on us, we go to UT make a big comeback and take the lead only to get beat in OT, Arkansas is still running on our defense, Tebow is still scoring TDs, and then Clemson comes into town where we blow yet another lead and get beat on a last second field goal. After that we are 6-6, not going to a bowl game, and we are going to have to listen to all the Clemson crap for another 365 days.
In 2008 the Gamecocks should be much improved with a new DC (defensive coordinator), special teams coach, and lots of returning starters. OH, did I forget to mention that Steve Spurrier is still our head coach. The only question mark for this team will be at QB. Other than that, maybe just maybe it will be one heck of a year for Gamecock Football.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Baby Sitting
Well tonight we have the chance to baby sit our little niece Rilee. This is Erin's sisters baby.
So far it has been a pretty uneventful night. Erin is now giving her her bath, so I thought I would get in a quick blog post.
As promised I will post one good thing and one not so good thing that took place this past year. However, it will be tomorrow before I get around to it.
Today has been good. It was one of those days when you get home knowing that you have worked your hinney off, and got something done. Which brings me to this thought. Why does this not happen every day that I live? Christ called us to work and live as unto the Lord and not unto men. When I think about why Jesus was born (and I hope you know it wasn't on Dec. 25) then I ought to go to bed every night knowing that I have worked my hinney off for my Lord.
So far it has been a pretty uneventful night. Erin is now giving her her bath, so I thought I would get in a quick blog post.
As promised I will post one good thing and one not so good thing that took place this past year. However, it will be tomorrow before I get around to it.
Today has been good. It was one of those days when you get home knowing that you have worked your hinney off, and got something done. Which brings me to this thought. Why does this not happen every day that I live? Christ called us to work and live as unto the Lord and not unto men. When I think about why Jesus was born (and I hope you know it wasn't on Dec. 25) then I ought to go to bed every night knowing that I have worked my hinney off for my Lord.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Tis The Season
Just a few more days (ok about a week) left to get all that Christmas shopping done. For the first time since I have been married, I have all my shopping done. Ok, I must confess it wasn't to hard this year. We put new floors in our kitchen and bought new lamps for the living room. There still may be a little surprise for Erin in her stocking when she wakes up Christmas morning.
We also just got back from the mountains as part of our Christmas this year. We had a great time getting away for the weekend just being together. As we this year comes to an end I am going to give you my 3 top moments form this past year and my 3 most disappointing moments from this past year, starting tomorrow.
Thought for today: "Don't give up, don't ever give up"- Jimmy V
Jimmy V gave one of the most powerful speeches right before he died at the ESPY awards presented by ESPN. Dieing of cancer he made this statement. So no matter what you are going through today. Don't give up, don't ever give up.
We also just got back from the mountains as part of our Christmas this year. We had a great time getting away for the weekend just being together. As we this year comes to an end I am going to give you my 3 top moments form this past year and my 3 most disappointing moments from this past year, starting tomorrow.
Thought for today: "Don't give up, don't ever give up"- Jimmy V
Jimmy V gave one of the most powerful speeches right before he died at the ESPY awards presented by ESPN. Dieing of cancer he made this statement. So no matter what you are going through today. Don't give up, don't ever give up.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Thought of the Day
Just something to think about on this day. Its not from the devotion but I heard it on a message the other day.
"Is the work you are doing for God in this world, destroying the work of God within you."
As a minister or a lay person we can often get so busy doing the work of God that we often neglect our personal walk with Christ. We can never be who God created and called us to be if we don't spend time with Jesus daily.
"Is the work you are doing for God in this world, destroying the work of God within you."
As a minister or a lay person we can often get so busy doing the work of God that we often neglect our personal walk with Christ. We can never be who God created and called us to be if we don't spend time with Jesus daily.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Amazing
Amazing is the only word that I could find in my little head to describe what happened yesterday. Ever talked with someone a day after they had brain surgery. That's right BRAIN SURGERY. Last night I called down to Atlanta to check on Griffin. After a short conversation with his dad, Griffin got on the phone. After I hung up, all I wanted to do was fall on my face before God and give him praise. Sure the doctors and nurses played a big roll in Griffin's surgery, but we all know it is God who has done the miracle in Griffin's life. Griffin has had so much courage through all of this. Continue to pray for him and his family as they all recover.
Heart of the Problem: Thought of the Day
Relief from our problems is not found in this world, the only relief from our problems can be found in the WORD."
Today's study was on peace. So many people do not have true peace in their hearts. Everything looks good on the outside, but there is that one thing in them that has yet to be fulfilled. Its the peace that only God can bring.
People try to fill that void in their life with so many things that are found in this world. Money, alcohol, drugs, promotions, pornography, power, popularity, and the list could go on and on. These things may bring a quick fix to your problem and give you peace at the time, but in the end will only lead to more misery. Trust me I have been there and tried that.
The only thing that can fill that void in our life is Jesus. God's world says in John 16:33 that in ME (speaking of Jesus) you may have peace. When we have problems in our lives we must not run to this world, but rather we must run to Jesus. He is the only one that can give us the peace in our lives that will last for all eternity.
Heart of the Problem: Thought of the Day
Relief from our problems is not found in this world, the only relief from our problems can be found in the WORD."
Today's study was on peace. So many people do not have true peace in their hearts. Everything looks good on the outside, but there is that one thing in them that has yet to be fulfilled. Its the peace that only God can bring.
People try to fill that void in their life with so many things that are found in this world. Money, alcohol, drugs, promotions, pornography, power, popularity, and the list could go on and on. These things may bring a quick fix to your problem and give you peace at the time, but in the end will only lead to more misery. Trust me I have been there and tried that.
The only thing that can fill that void in our life is Jesus. God's world says in John 16:33 that in ME (speaking of Jesus) you may have peace. When we have problems in our lives we must not run to this world, but rather we must run to Jesus. He is the only one that can give us the peace in our lives that will last for all eternity.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Heart of The Problem: Thought of the Day
Today's thought is this.
"We are all just a repentant prayer away from a change of heart."
God is in the business of changing us. However, there are steps that we must take in order for this to happen. The most important step is that we must repent. If we never repent of our sins then God can not change our heart. God does not force us to change. He gives each one of us the opportunity to change. When we make the decision to repent then God begins to change our heart.
Do you need a change of heart today? Why not repent of your sins and ask God to give you that change.
"We are all just a repentant prayer away from a change of heart."
God is in the business of changing us. However, there are steps that we must take in order for this to happen. The most important step is that we must repent. If we never repent of our sins then God can not change our heart. God does not force us to change. He gives each one of us the opportunity to change. When we make the decision to repent then God begins to change our heart.
Do you need a change of heart today? Why not repent of your sins and ask God to give you that change.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Final Update
I am going to paste from Griffin's care page what the final update is for the night. Thanks to all who have lifted him and his family up in prayer today.
The surgery is...................................OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was successful. Thank you, Lord and thank you everyone for praying. It was about an 11 hour ordeal today, and we are tired mentally and physically. However, we are so excited and grateful at the goodness of God and His people. During the surgery, they thought they had removed it all but when they did an angiogram while still in the Operating Room, they saw some they didn't get so they removed more. After that, they did another angiogram just to make sure and they still saw the tiniest spot of it left. So they removed a little more and repeated the angiogram one last time. They all feel satisfied that it is all gone now. So Praise the Lord!! Right now he is still in recovery and then they will move him to the ICU where we stayed for 3 weeks early on. Please just pray he will remain very stable overnight and that he will recover quickly. Hopefully, his left side will still be as strong as it was before surgery. Depending on the recovery rate we could be home in Easley as early as THIS Sunday or Monday!!!! I can't think that far ahead yet though. I just want us to have a smooth night at this point. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for all of you and especially our God. Can't thank you enough.
The surgery is...................................OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was successful. Thank you, Lord and thank you everyone for praying. It was about an 11 hour ordeal today, and we are tired mentally and physically. However, we are so excited and grateful at the goodness of God and His people. During the surgery, they thought they had removed it all but when they did an angiogram while still in the Operating Room, they saw some they didn't get so they removed more. After that, they did another angiogram just to make sure and they still saw the tiniest spot of it left. So they removed a little more and repeated the angiogram one last time. They all feel satisfied that it is all gone now. So Praise the Lord!! Right now he is still in recovery and then they will move him to the ICU where we stayed for 3 weeks early on. Please just pray he will remain very stable overnight and that he will recover quickly. Hopefully, his left side will still be as strong as it was before surgery. Depending on the recovery rate we could be home in Easley as early as THIS Sunday or Monday!!!! I can't think that far ahead yet though. I just want us to have a smooth night at this point. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for all of you and especially our God. Can't thank you enough.
Update
Just wanted to let everyone know what is going on with Griffin's surgery.
I just got off the phone with Barney (Griffin's dad) and this is what he told me.
Right now everything is going as planned. They have done an angeogram (sp) and found that they still had some more work to do on AVM that they are removing from Griffin's brain. They will continue to work on it, take another angeogram and then see where they stand. They took Griffin back this morning around 9am and he has been back in surgery since then.
Please continue to pray for the doctors and those working with him. Also please pray for the family as they wait.
I will keep the blog updated as I get the updates.
I just got off the phone with Barney (Griffin's dad) and this is what he told me.
Right now everything is going as planned. They have done an angeogram (sp) and found that they still had some more work to do on AVM that they are removing from Griffin's brain. They will continue to work on it, take another angeogram and then see where they stand. They took Griffin back this morning around 9am and he has been back in surgery since then.
Please continue to pray for the doctors and those working with him. Also please pray for the family as they wait.
I will keep the blog updated as I get the updates.
Tuesday Two Step
I just got back from the big city of Atlanta Georgia. Once again I am amazed at how many people can actually be on one road at the same time. I would love to tell you where I stayed and what I had to eat while there, but you not not believe me. Lets just say that for a small town redneck like myself, it was a big deal.
1. Please pray. The reason for going to Atlanta was to see Griffin and his family before he had brain surgery today. The doctor talked like the surgery will be a good one. With that said, Griffin and his family need our prayers today. Lets pray that God would guide the hands of those working on him and that the recovery will be quick and easy. If all goes well they may get to come home by the weekend or early next week. We have seen God do some big things, I cant wait to see what else he does.
2. I have started a new devotional called "The Heart of the Problem." I went through this as a freshman in college and it had a major impact on my life. The other day I decided to pull it back out and go through it once again. In the days to come I will be sharing some thoughts of the day from the book. So far God has shown me new and fresh things while going through this book. Here is a quote from the book that has made the most impact so far.
"Do not underestimate the cleansing power available when anyone approaches God as a repentant sinner who has seen the sin and wants to be restored and renewed."
Wow. I would love to dissect this even more but you would get tired reading what I have to say. So in short, all I have to is that forgiveness is ours when we come to Christ, seeing our sin, repent of that sin, and truly want to be restored. Many people want to be forgiven of their sin but do not want to be restored. God wants to cleanse us and make us new again. Will you let Him?
1. Please pray. The reason for going to Atlanta was to see Griffin and his family before he had brain surgery today. The doctor talked like the surgery will be a good one. With that said, Griffin and his family need our prayers today. Lets pray that God would guide the hands of those working on him and that the recovery will be quick and easy. If all goes well they may get to come home by the weekend or early next week. We have seen God do some big things, I cant wait to see what else he does.
2. I have started a new devotional called "The Heart of the Problem." I went through this as a freshman in college and it had a major impact on my life. The other day I decided to pull it back out and go through it once again. In the days to come I will be sharing some thoughts of the day from the book. So far God has shown me new and fresh things while going through this book. Here is a quote from the book that has made the most impact so far.
"Do not underestimate the cleansing power available when anyone approaches God as a repentant sinner who has seen the sin and wants to be restored and renewed."
Wow. I would love to dissect this even more but you would get tired reading what I have to say. So in short, all I have to is that forgiveness is ours when we come to Christ, seeing our sin, repent of that sin, and truly want to be restored. Many people want to be forgiven of their sin but do not want to be restored. God wants to cleanse us and make us new again. Will you let Him?
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
And the Days Go By
Seems like the days are going by extremely fast these days. I cant believe that it has been a week now since I have last sat down and blogged. To say the least it has been a week of ups, downs, and all arounds. I love Thanksgiving break. We had a great time of rest and relaxation. I also ate, and ate a lot. I gave up eating sometime around 9:00pm on Friday night. My body just could not take it anymore. The turkey, green beans, mac and cheese, brownies, cookies, pie, and ice cream were all the foods that I indulged myself in.
I am working on some new stuff to blog about the next few days. I look forward to sharing some fresh thoughts with you guys and gals.
I am working on some new stuff to blog about the next few days. I look forward to sharing some fresh thoughts with you guys and gals.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
I'm Thankful For: Volume Two
I am just about to go into our annual Thanksgiving service and then we are off to Barnwell for Thanksgiving with the in-laws.
Before I go though I need to tell you the last two things that I am thankful for (although there are a ton of others these are the ones I want to mention.)
3. My family. What else can I say. I love my family and they mean the world to me. So this Thanksgiving I am giving praise to God for my family.
4. The Gamecocks and this!!!!
31-28 WIDE LEFT
Before I go though I need to tell you the last two things that I am thankful for (although there are a ton of others these are the ones I want to mention.)
3. My family. What else can I say. I love my family and they mean the world to me. So this Thanksgiving I am giving praise to God for my family.
4. The Gamecocks and this!!!!
31-28 WIDE LEFT
Monday, November 19, 2007
I Almost Forgot
Dont forget Clemson fans, I still have a few more days of bragging rights. Here is a picture that should brighten your day a little bit.
sorry I just had to.
sorry I just had to.
I'm Thankful For: Volume One
Wow what a weekend. This was a great time for Erin and I just to spend together. We did absolutely nothing. Well we did clean the house and go to the mall, but other than that we just hung out together.
Since this is the week of Thanksgiving I thought I would share some things that I am thankful for. I will post up until Thanksgiving Day and then we are heading out of town until next week.
1. I am thankful for my relationship with Christ. I thought I might do a countdown, but I decided to start with the two most important things in my life. On October 31, 1996 I gave my life to Christ. He CHANGED me completely. I am reminded of a song by Jason Crabb. In it the line goes "I'm amazed that you love me." Why Christ would love someone like me is hard to understand, but I am so glad that he does. As a matter of fact he loves you too. So this Thanksgiving I am thankful for Jesus.
2. Apart from the decision to accept Christ as my Savior was the decision to marry my wife Erin was the best decision that I have ever made. She completes me. Without her in my life, life would be meaningless. She is my biggest supporter, fan, and encourager. On May 15, 2004 we became one, and I would want it no other way. This Thanksgiving I am so thankful for the most beautiful women that I have ever met or will ever meet, my wife ERIN!!!!!!
Since this is the week of Thanksgiving I thought I would share some things that I am thankful for. I will post up until Thanksgiving Day and then we are heading out of town until next week.
1. I am thankful for my relationship with Christ. I thought I might do a countdown, but I decided to start with the two most important things in my life. On October 31, 1996 I gave my life to Christ. He CHANGED me completely. I am reminded of a song by Jason Crabb. In it the line goes "I'm amazed that you love me." Why Christ would love someone like me is hard to understand, but I am so glad that he does. As a matter of fact he loves you too. So this Thanksgiving I am thankful for Jesus.
2. Apart from the decision to accept Christ as my Savior was the decision to marry my wife Erin was the best decision that I have ever made. She completes me. Without her in my life, life would be meaningless. She is my biggest supporter, fan, and encourager. On May 15, 2004 we became one, and I would want it no other way. This Thanksgiving I am so thankful for the most beautiful women that I have ever met or will ever meet, my wife ERIN!!!!!!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
It's Been Awhile
Seems like forever since the last time that I have blogged. I had good ideas, I just haven't found the time to write.
It also seems like I have been like the Johnny Cash song which says "I've been EVERYWHERE man, I've been EVERYWHERE." I am just glad to be home. This weekend nothing is going on. It will be the first time in a long time where I am going to be able to spend time with Erin and just relax a little bit.
I am reading two books right now. In the days to come I will be sharing some thoughts with you from these two books. I am pumped to see what God is going to do in the days to come through these books and His Word.
It also seems like I have been like the Johnny Cash song which says "I've been EVERYWHERE man, I've been EVERYWHERE." I am just glad to be home. This weekend nothing is going on. It will be the first time in a long time where I am going to be able to spend time with Erin and just relax a little bit.
I am reading two books right now. In the days to come I will be sharing some thoughts with you from these two books. I am pumped to see what God is going to do in the days to come through these books and His Word.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Slow Week
Sorry that I have not posted up until now for this week. This has been one of those weeks where not a whole lot was going on.
I do want to take some time today and praise God for all that he has been doing in my life and in the life of our church. We have seen him do some pretty awesome things over the past month.
Griffen (the boy in my ministry that we have been praying for) is doing very well. He is sitting up and they have taken all but one tube and an IV out. God has done some pretty awesome things with Griffen. Though not totally out of the woods yet, we are praying that God will continue to show himself BIG in Griffen's life.
As for the weekend, Erin is going home to see her mom and dad. What does that mean for me. Well I imagine it will have something to do with pig skin and a grass field. Saturday night I will be in Columbia. You figure it out.
I do want to take some time today and praise God for all that he has been doing in my life and in the life of our church. We have seen him do some pretty awesome things over the past month.
Griffen (the boy in my ministry that we have been praying for) is doing very well. He is sitting up and they have taken all but one tube and an IV out. God has done some pretty awesome things with Griffen. Though not totally out of the woods yet, we are praying that God will continue to show himself BIG in Griffen's life.
As for the weekend, Erin is going home to see her mom and dad. What does that mean for me. Well I imagine it will have something to do with pig skin and a grass field. Saturday night I will be in Columbia. You figure it out.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Bright Spot in the Darkness
Well this weekend was not a good one when it comes to the teams that I pull for. On Friday night I left a football game for only the third time ever. Wren absolutely beat the crap out of Easley. Wren scored 51 unanswered points to win the game.
Saturday was a good day up until 8:00pm. Erin and I had a great time in Greenville shopping and out at dinner. We came home put up some new curtains and then it was time for the USC game. Four hours later, Arkansas had run for 530 yards and scored 48 points. We only scored 36. Not a good night.
So far the weekend had been very dark. Then came Sunday. I had the opportunity to lead a 50 something year old man to faith in Jesus Christ. During the invitation he came down crying in need of something. After I short talk, I ask him did he want to be a changed man. Usually I would then lead in the prayer, however this time I let him pray. He called out to Christ, repented of his sins, ask for forgiveness, and ask Christ to be his Savior.
That's what it is about. I'll take losing every game of the year if it means me getting to lead people to Christ every week.
Here's to a wonderful week.
Saturday was a good day up until 8:00pm. Erin and I had a great time in Greenville shopping and out at dinner. We came home put up some new curtains and then it was time for the USC game. Four hours later, Arkansas had run for 530 yards and scored 48 points. We only scored 36. Not a good night.
So far the weekend had been very dark. Then came Sunday. I had the opportunity to lead a 50 something year old man to faith in Jesus Christ. During the invitation he came down crying in need of something. After I short talk, I ask him did he want to be a changed man. Usually I would then lead in the prayer, however this time I let him pray. He called out to Christ, repented of his sins, ask for forgiveness, and ask Christ to be his Savior.
That's what it is about. I'll take losing every game of the year if it means me getting to lead people to Christ every week.
Here's to a wonderful week.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Just Back
I just returned home for the Big and I mean Big city of Atlanta GA. Pastor, Walt, and I went down to see Griffen. It was unlike anything that I had imagined.
The good news is that Griffen's numbers are right where they need to be. We had a great time talking with Barney and Deanne. I cant imagine what they are going through. Please continue praying for them as the days ahead will be very anxious ones. If all continues to go well today, they are going to slowly begin to wake him up.
Right now its off for a nap. We left this morning at 5:00am and I am a little tired.
The good news is that Griffen's numbers are right where they need to be. We had a great time talking with Barney and Deanne. I cant imagine what they are going through. Please continue praying for them as the days ahead will be very anxious ones. If all continues to go well today, they are going to slowly begin to wake him up.
Right now its off for a nap. We left this morning at 5:00am and I am a little tired.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Please Pray
If you have not already heard, there were 7 college students that lost their lives in a house fire in NC over the weekend. 6 were from USC and 1 was from Clemson. We join together as one on this day to lift up the families of these 7 individuals. Their lives will never be the same.We are reminded daily that life is short. If death were to come your way today, would you be ready? The only way to be ready when death comes our way is to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Father, we ask you to wrap your arms around the families and friends of those killed in this tragic event. We ask to you bring glory to yourself through this event that has taken place. May all those grieving today find hope, comfort, and peace through you.
It's Over, But Just Beginning
Well officially my car has 421 more miles on it this morning. From Easley SC to Cherokee NC, form Cherokee NC to Knoxville TN, from Knoxville TN to Easley SC, from Easley SC to Greer SC, from Greer SC back to Easley SC, this was one crazy weekend.
It's over now, but this week is just beginning. This week I will celebrate a birthday. Not a physical one but a spiritual one. On October 31 I will celebrate 11 years of knowing Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. More to come on this wonderful event in my life.
As for this week, it should be a good one. We will have our fall festival at the church here on Tuesday night, Missions 360 on Wednesday night (that's right parents and kids, we will have church that night, you can trick or treat after church is over), and then before you know it the weekend will be here and the fun will start all over again.
It's over now, but this week is just beginning. This week I will celebrate a birthday. Not a physical one but a spiritual one. On October 31 I will celebrate 11 years of knowing Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. More to come on this wonderful event in my life.
As for this week, it should be a good one. We will have our fall festival at the church here on Tuesday night, Missions 360 on Wednesday night (that's right parents and kids, we will have church that night, you can trick or treat after church is over), and then before you know it the weekend will be here and the fun will start all over again.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Mile 301
That's right and I do feel like it as well. Leg two is now over with and what an exciting one it was. Down 21-0 at the half, Carolina comes out the second half to tie the score at 21 and then took the 24-21 lead with just over a minute to play. Tennessee fumbles the ball twice, has a false start penalty, and a true freshman kicker. The kid made one heck of a 48 yard field goal to tie the game at 24 and we go to overtime. In OT Tennessee kicks a field goal, and we miss a field goal and that's the game.
I pulled in to Easley SC at 4:15am this morning. Jumped in the bed, took a little nap, and now I am about to head to Greer SC to preach.
The final leg is under way. I may recap tonight after church, but my prediction is it will be in the morning. After I preach my GUTS out (OK, not really, but if we can yell and scream for football, we can yell and scream for JESUS) its home for a nap.
I pulled in to Easley SC at 4:15am this morning. Jumped in the bed, took a little nap, and now I am about to head to Greer SC to preach.
The final leg is under way. I may recap tonight after church, but my prediction is it will be in the morning. After I preach my GUTS out (OK, not really, but if we can yell and scream for football, we can yell and scream for JESUS) its home for a nap.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Wild Weekend Update
Well Erin and I made it up to Cherokee NC around 11:00pm last night. After a brief snack, we headed off to dream land.
It's now Saturday around 11:00am and we are about to head over to Serverville TN for some shopping and then off to the game tonight in Knoxville TN. After a brief nap I will get up tomorrow morning and then off to preach.
Leg one of wild weekend is over and now we are off to leg two. I am going to try and blog from my new Treo (cell phone) once we get into the stadium. If no post by 8:00pm then you know it didn't work.
Go Gamecocks!!!!!!!
It's now Saturday around 11:00am and we are about to head over to Serverville TN for some shopping and then off to the game tonight in Knoxville TN. After a brief nap I will get up tomorrow morning and then off to preach.
Leg one of wild weekend is over and now we are off to leg two. I am going to try and blog from my new Treo (cell phone) once we get into the stadium. If no post by 8:00pm then you know it didn't work.
Go Gamecocks!!!!!!!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Big Weekend Ahead
It all starts tomorrow morning. I will be heading up to play golf in the NGU Alumni Golf Tournament. Then it is home for a quick shower, and then off to church for the final presentation of Death's Door. We have seen God do some awesome things over the last two weeks. We are out of tickets as of this past Tuesday, so there should be a packed house Friday night.
After Death's Door, Erin and I will get in the car and head up to Cherokee NC to see my mom. This will be the first time that we have been in a long time. Pray for us as we travel.
On Saturday we will spend some time with my mom and step dad and then all four of us will head over to Knoxville for the USC/UT game. Game time set for 7:45pm and is on ESPN. We should be back home sometime early Sunday morning. I'm thinking around 2 or 3am. Once again pray as we travel.
After a quick nap, I will get up be at church for staff meeting and then I am off to Peoples Baptist Church in Greer SC. I will be preaching in their AM service. Please pray that God will use me to be an encouragement and that I will say exactly what He wants me to say.
Sunday Afternoon= NAP
After Death's Door, Erin and I will get in the car and head up to Cherokee NC to see my mom. This will be the first time that we have been in a long time. Pray for us as we travel.
On Saturday we will spend some time with my mom and step dad and then all four of us will head over to Knoxville for the USC/UT game. Game time set for 7:45pm and is on ESPN. We should be back home sometime early Sunday morning. I'm thinking around 2 or 3am. Once again pray as we travel.
After a quick nap, I will get up be at church for staff meeting and then I am off to Peoples Baptist Church in Greer SC. I will be preaching in their AM service. Please pray that God will use me to be an encouragement and that I will say exactly what He wants me to say.
Sunday Afternoon= NAP
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Here is the Latest
If you dont want to go to the website I have copied and pasted the lastest update from Griffen's site. Here it is (very long).
October 24, 2007 at 01:36 PM EDT
Hello friends Here's a review of what has occured with Griffin so far.He was at kid's choir at our church on Sunday night, and we were in a meeting in another part of the church. Someone came and got us to say that Griffin had fallen and an ambulance had been called. He was taken by ambulance to Greenville Memorial and was complaining of a headache and said he couldn't feel or move his left side.When we arrived in the ER we were very soon shown a picture of his cat scan showing a rather large blood clot in his brain.Of course, everyone assumed it was from the fall.However, Griffin kept saying that he was dizzy before he fell.So they did another scan to see if there could be another cause besides the fall.They found out he had an AVM which is a malformation in the brain.He had probably had it from birth, but you don't know it until it bleeds.So Griffin's had bled and that's what caused the fall. The fall had done no damage.He had simply fallen becuse of the bleed.He was admitted to ICU in Greenville and we were told he would need a surgery to remove the AVM.The doctors at Greenville do not do many of these procedures so they wanted us to go to Emory in Atlanta to have it done.Grifin was flown by helicopter at about 3:30 AM while we drove down.The whole time Griffin was given a lot of morphine so he wouldn't hurt or be scared.He really was not aware of what was going on.He was admitted to the ICU at Emory Children's Hospital (Egleston).The whole day he was kept sedated and just rested.On Monday night many things occured.First we had a scare when they said Griffin's pupils had changed and they rushed him for another cat scan.Fortunantely,that was not the case and his scan was much the same as the one in Greenville.Later that night they put him on a ventilator and then later also put a tube in in his brain to monitor the pressure and drain fluid.It was a very scary and bad night.The next day (Tuesday) was much better.They did an angiogram to see what the AVM looked like and to make sure there were no anurisyms.We were so glad to hear that the AVM is in a good place to operate and no anurisms! Last night was better than the previous night but we did have one situation in which they couldn't get his brain pressure regulated and they did another cat scan. The good news was the scan has not changed ,and they have been able to keep the presure regulated for the past 10 hours.That is where we are at the present time. We want to thank everyone for their prayers so far.It is a comfort to us and we love each of you so much.Our 2 other boys are staying with their grandparents in Easley so they can keep going to school. Our twin foster babies are with 2 different foster families in the area who love them very much.We know all 4 kids are in good hands, but we miss them all terribly.Griffin is still heavily sedated which is really a good thing so he's not afraid.The last thing he probably remembers is the ambulance ride to Greenville.We are doing fine too and do not need anything right now,but we appreciate the many offers we've had.The hospital has a couch bed in Griffin's room for one of us and a bedroom down the hall for the other parent.We also have a shower in Griffin's room and a shower just down the hall.The hospital also has washers and dryers as well as plenty of food choices downstairs.So we are fine for now.Please continue to pray for Griffin to heal enough to have his surgery and for us to have comfort and strength.We will try to post daily.We love all of you so much.
October 24, 2007 at 01:36 PM EDT
Hello friends Here's a review of what has occured with Griffin so far.He was at kid's choir at our church on Sunday night, and we were in a meeting in another part of the church. Someone came and got us to say that Griffin had fallen and an ambulance had been called. He was taken by ambulance to Greenville Memorial and was complaining of a headache and said he couldn't feel or move his left side.When we arrived in the ER we were very soon shown a picture of his cat scan showing a rather large blood clot in his brain.Of course, everyone assumed it was from the fall.However, Griffin kept saying that he was dizzy before he fell.So they did another scan to see if there could be another cause besides the fall.They found out he had an AVM which is a malformation in the brain.He had probably had it from birth, but you don't know it until it bleeds.So Griffin's had bled and that's what caused the fall. The fall had done no damage.He had simply fallen becuse of the bleed.He was admitted to ICU in Greenville and we were told he would need a surgery to remove the AVM.The doctors at Greenville do not do many of these procedures so they wanted us to go to Emory in Atlanta to have it done.Grifin was flown by helicopter at about 3:30 AM while we drove down.The whole time Griffin was given a lot of morphine so he wouldn't hurt or be scared.He really was not aware of what was going on.He was admitted to the ICU at Emory Children's Hospital (Egleston).The whole day he was kept sedated and just rested.On Monday night many things occured.First we had a scare when they said Griffin's pupils had changed and they rushed him for another cat scan.Fortunantely,that was not the case and his scan was much the same as the one in Greenville.Later that night they put him on a ventilator and then later also put a tube in in his brain to monitor the pressure and drain fluid.It was a very scary and bad night.The next day (Tuesday) was much better.They did an angiogram to see what the AVM looked like and to make sure there were no anurisyms.We were so glad to hear that the AVM is in a good place to operate and no anurisms! Last night was better than the previous night but we did have one situation in which they couldn't get his brain pressure regulated and they did another cat scan. The good news was the scan has not changed ,and they have been able to keep the presure regulated for the past 10 hours.That is where we are at the present time. We want to thank everyone for their prayers so far.It is a comfort to us and we love each of you so much.Our 2 other boys are staying with their grandparents in Easley so they can keep going to school. Our twin foster babies are with 2 different foster families in the area who love them very much.We know all 4 kids are in good hands, but we miss them all terribly.Griffin is still heavily sedated which is really a good thing so he's not afraid.The last thing he probably remembers is the ambulance ride to Greenville.We are doing fine too and do not need anything right now,but we appreciate the many offers we've had.The hospital has a couch bed in Griffin's room for one of us and a bedroom down the hall for the other parent.We also have a shower in Griffin's room and a shower just down the hall.The hospital also has washers and dryers as well as plenty of food choices downstairs.So we are fine for now.Please continue to pray for Griffin to heal enough to have his surgery and for us to have comfort and strength.We will try to post daily.We love all of you so much.
It's the Middle of the Week
Hey there. So I have been busy all day. It started early this morning as I was able to preach at chapel at Siloam Christian School. Then it was off to church to get ready for tonight.
I wanted to give you an update on Griffen. Barney left me a voice mail earlier this afternoon and I wanted to share with you what he said. He said that they are still keeping Griffen heavily sedated so that the brain will not have to do much. There is still a good bit of swelling on the brain that is causing them concern. He told me that they are still working with him to try and get the numbers right. He said he had no clue what that meant but once they get them right they should be good to go. He is responding to the newest medicine that they have him on which is a good sign. He said that the doctors have told them that best case is that the swelling goes down, the numbers get right, and then they could come home and wait to go back for more surgery. If not then the doctors have said that they could be there for at least a month.
Today we are praying that they will get the numbers right (God knows what this means) even if we don't. Barney also ask us to pray that the swelling on the brain would go down.
Here is a website that you can go to to get all the information on Griffen. You may have to register but it only takes a minute or two.
Griffen Barnes Website
Thanks and God Bless.
I wanted to give you an update on Griffen. Barney left me a voice mail earlier this afternoon and I wanted to share with you what he said. He said that they are still keeping Griffen heavily sedated so that the brain will not have to do much. There is still a good bit of swelling on the brain that is causing them concern. He told me that they are still working with him to try and get the numbers right. He said he had no clue what that meant but once they get them right they should be good to go. He is responding to the newest medicine that they have him on which is a good sign. He said that the doctors have told them that best case is that the swelling goes down, the numbers get right, and then they could come home and wait to go back for more surgery. If not then the doctors have said that they could be there for at least a month.
Today we are praying that they will get the numbers right (God knows what this means) even if we don't. Barney also ask us to pray that the swelling on the brain would go down.
Here is a website that you can go to to get all the information on Griffen. You may have to register but it only takes a minute or two.
Griffen Barnes Website
Thanks and God Bless.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Great News
I have some good news to bring. Griffen's test today came back good. He does not have an aneurysm. However, he is not out of the woods yet.
This is a huge answer to the thousands of prayers that have been prayed for Griffen over the past few days. They will keep Griffen in Atlanta for at least 5 more days. If he continues to improve and has no more complications, he will get to come back home, wait a couple of weeks, and then return to Atlanta for some more surgery.
Please continue to pray for Griffen and his family. We have seen God answer one prayer and we need him to answer another. Please pray that Griffen will get the feeling back in the left side of his body. We believe that God has the power to heal.
I will post more information as it becomes available to me.
This is a huge answer to the thousands of prayers that have been prayed for Griffen over the past few days. They will keep Griffen in Atlanta for at least 5 more days. If he continues to improve and has no more complications, he will get to come back home, wait a couple of weeks, and then return to Atlanta for some more surgery.
Please continue to pray for Griffen and his family. We have seen God answer one prayer and we need him to answer another. Please pray that Griffen will get the feeling back in the left side of his body. We believe that God has the power to heal.
I will post more information as it becomes available to me.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Update on Griffen
I just got off the phone with Pastor and got the update on Griffen as of this afternoon.
Right now they have him heavily sedated and have been running test on him all day. There has been no major change in his condition.
They will be doing another test in the morning either at 6am or 10am to determine the next step. If the test come back good then he will be able to come home and they will wait 3 weeks or so to determine the next step. If the test comes back bad then they will have to do surgery right then.
We are still praying that God will do a miracle in Griffen's life and that the test will come back with a positive result. We must remember "Nothing is impossible with God." Please continue to pray for Mike, Deanne, Tucker, and Riley, as well as the rest of the family during this wait and see period.
I will continue to update the blog as I receive the information.
Right now they have him heavily sedated and have been running test on him all day. There has been no major change in his condition.
They will be doing another test in the morning either at 6am or 10am to determine the next step. If the test come back good then he will be able to come home and they will wait 3 weeks or so to determine the next step. If the test comes back bad then they will have to do surgery right then.
We are still praying that God will do a miracle in Griffen's life and that the test will come back with a positive result. We must remember "Nothing is impossible with God." Please continue to pray for Mike, Deanne, Tucker, and Riley, as well as the rest of the family during this wait and see period.
I will continue to update the blog as I receive the information.
Urgent Prayer Request
Hello to all. I have an urgent prayer request that we need to lift up this morning.
Last night around 5:30pm one of the students in my ministry fell here at church during Kids Choir. Late last night after many test had been run it was determined that he had a pre-exsiting condition that caused him to become dizzy, fall, and no feeling on the left side of his body. They flew him to Atlanta around 3:00am this morning. As of 7:30 this morning they were going to do more test to determine the next step.
Please join me in praying that the test will come back positive and that he will not have to go through surgery at this point. He has some bleeding on the brain which has everyone concerned. Please pray that the body will absorbed this so that surgery will not have to be done. Also, please pray for his mom, dad, brothers, and rest of the family as they are going through this tough time.
I will be giving updates through this blog as I get them.
God Bless!!!
Last night around 5:30pm one of the students in my ministry fell here at church during Kids Choir. Late last night after many test had been run it was determined that he had a pre-exsiting condition that caused him to become dizzy, fall, and no feeling on the left side of his body. They flew him to Atlanta around 3:00am this morning. As of 7:30 this morning they were going to do more test to determine the next step.
Please join me in praying that the test will come back positive and that he will not have to go through surgery at this point. He has some bleeding on the brain which has everyone concerned. Please pray that the body will absorbed this so that surgery will not have to be done. Also, please pray for his mom, dad, brothers, and rest of the family as they are going through this tough time.
I will be giving updates through this blog as I get them.
God Bless!!!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Looking Ahead
This week has been a blur. As a matter of fact the last couple of weeks have been a blur. Now as we look to this weekend it looks to be a fun and exciting time.
Friday and Saturday night we will have Death's Door presentation here at the church. We have given out most of the tickets for these two nights. There are still tickets available for Friday October 26. All tickets are free and we have encouraged our members to invite people to be with us for these three great nights. Please pray as many youth groups, church groups, sports teams, and others who attend during these nights. Also pray that we will not just see people saved, but that we will see lives changed, and the community impacted by the power of the gospel.
As far as the Gamecocks. The #6 team (that sounds good) in the nation will take on Vandy. In the past we could chalk this one up as a Win. However, these days you never know what is going to happen in college football. With that said, Spurrier and the boys roll in this one, and get ready for some "Rocky Top Tennessee" next week.
Here's to a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday and Saturday night we will have Death's Door presentation here at the church. We have given out most of the tickets for these two nights. There are still tickets available for Friday October 26. All tickets are free and we have encouraged our members to invite people to be with us for these three great nights. Please pray as many youth groups, church groups, sports teams, and others who attend during these nights. Also pray that we will not just see people saved, but that we will see lives changed, and the community impacted by the power of the gospel.
As far as the Gamecocks. The #6 team (that sounds good) in the nation will take on Vandy. In the past we could chalk this one up as a Win. However, these days you never know what is going to happen in college football. With that said, Spurrier and the boys roll in this one, and get ready for some "Rocky Top Tennessee" next week.
Here's to a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Good Weekend
This was a pretty good weekend. Here is how it went.
Friday- I took Erin to the SC State fair. If you have never been you need to go. You will eat more greasy food then you have ever eaten in all of your life. It is the best food you have ever eaten. We meet Erin's mom and dad as well as her aunt and uncle. We had a blast. We even won a huge stuffed dog (not that we need it, but whats the fair without carrying a huge stuffed animal around).
Saturday- We had some friends over to watch the South Carolina game. We had a great time. The first half was great (Gamecocks lead 21-3). The second half not so great. Even though the Gamecocks pulled out the win (21-15) it was not pretty. But you know what they say " an ugly win is like having an ugly child, you wish it were different but you love them anyway.
Sunday- What a day in church. We started our first night of Death's Door. I really did not have a good feeling going into last night. That's when God showed up. It wasn't that I didn't think we had prepared enough, or that God wasn't going to show up. It was that uneasy feeling that you get because you want everything to go so well. And it did, from the videos, to the lights, to the sound, everything went very well. When the invitation was given, the altar was full of people wanting to make first time decisions to follow Christ. To God be the glory.
As I was leaving I get a phone call asking if I was still at church. I happened to be because a parent was late in picking up their child (I was getting upset and aggravated). Now I know why they were late. God had other plans for me. If the parents were 2 minutes earlier I would have already been on the way home, but instead I was able to talk to a 13 year old boy and he accepted Christ as his Savior. I was reminded again as I drove home after that exactly what ministry is. Its not about us, ITS ALL ABOUT HIM!!!!
Friday- I took Erin to the SC State fair. If you have never been you need to go. You will eat more greasy food then you have ever eaten in all of your life. It is the best food you have ever eaten. We meet Erin's mom and dad as well as her aunt and uncle. We had a blast. We even won a huge stuffed dog (not that we need it, but whats the fair without carrying a huge stuffed animal around).
Saturday- We had some friends over to watch the South Carolina game. We had a great time. The first half was great (Gamecocks lead 21-3). The second half not so great. Even though the Gamecocks pulled out the win (21-15) it was not pretty. But you know what they say " an ugly win is like having an ugly child, you wish it were different but you love them anyway.
Sunday- What a day in church. We started our first night of Death's Door. I really did not have a good feeling going into last night. That's when God showed up. It wasn't that I didn't think we had prepared enough, or that God wasn't going to show up. It was that uneasy feeling that you get because you want everything to go so well. And it did, from the videos, to the lights, to the sound, everything went very well. When the invitation was given, the altar was full of people wanting to make first time decisions to follow Christ. To God be the glory.
As I was leaving I get a phone call asking if I was still at church. I happened to be because a parent was late in picking up their child (I was getting upset and aggravated). Now I know why they were late. God had other plans for me. If the parents were 2 minutes earlier I would have already been on the way home, but instead I was able to talk to a 13 year old boy and he accepted Christ as his Savior. I was reminded again as I drove home after that exactly what ministry is. Its not about us, ITS ALL ABOUT HIM!!!!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Nice Surprises
I love surprises, and I love to surprise other people (especially my wife). Today I got a very nice surprise.
I am pumped. Just got off the phone with my mom up in NC. She has come through with South Carolina vs. Tennessee tickets. It is going to be a fun trip as we head up to spend the weekend with her and my step dad. We don't get to see each other a whole lot, so these times are special to us. On top of seeing her, we are headed to see the Gamecocks play! This should be a great weekend.
On another note, I was reading today in Psalm 75 this morning and God spoke in a powerful way. Here David is writing and he says "We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your Name is near." Did you catch that. God is always near. In the hospital bed, "HE is near", driving in your car, "HE is near", in a financial situation, "HE is near", is your marriage on the rocks, "HE is near", don't know where to turn, "HE is near".
I don't know about you but I am thankful that no matter what "HE IS NEAR." So as you go through this day and the rest of your life, reach out by faith to Jesus for "HE IS NEAR."
Today God we praise you that no matter what we go through in this life we know that "YOU ARE NEAR" to us. We reach out by faith and claim this promise in the Bible that "YOU ARE NEAR" to us.
I am pumped. Just got off the phone with my mom up in NC. She has come through with South Carolina vs. Tennessee tickets. It is going to be a fun trip as we head up to spend the weekend with her and my step dad. We don't get to see each other a whole lot, so these times are special to us. On top of seeing her, we are headed to see the Gamecocks play! This should be a great weekend.
On another note, I was reading today in Psalm 75 this morning and God spoke in a powerful way. Here David is writing and he says "We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your Name is near." Did you catch that. God is always near. In the hospital bed, "HE is near", driving in your car, "HE is near", in a financial situation, "HE is near", is your marriage on the rocks, "HE is near", don't know where to turn, "HE is near".
I don't know about you but I am thankful that no matter what "HE IS NEAR." So as you go through this day and the rest of your life, reach out by faith to Jesus for "HE IS NEAR."
Today God we praise you that no matter what we go through in this life we know that "YOU ARE NEAR" to us. We reach out by faith and claim this promise in the Bible that "YOU ARE NEAR" to us.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Long Week
Well this is going to be a long, long, long week. We are in the process of getting Deaths Door together. This is a ministry of our church that takes you from here to eternity. We have transformed our sanctuary into a set design of heaven and hell.
During Death's Door there will be several real life scenes that will take place on the stage. Each scene will involve a death of some sort with people going to heaven and the reality of people who die without Jesus going to hell. Last year we saw over 150 people come to know Christ in a personal way. God has blessed this ministry and we pray that this year even more would come to know HIM in a personal way.
We will have 3 times that we present Death's Door. The dates are Friday October 19 at 7:00pm, Saturday October 20 at 6:00pm, and Friday October 26 at 7:00pm. This will be a free ticketed event. If you would like more information on Death's Door please go to http://www.rockspringsbaptist.com/ or call the church office at 864-859-9854.
ARE YOU READY!!!!!
During Death's Door there will be several real life scenes that will take place on the stage. Each scene will involve a death of some sort with people going to heaven and the reality of people who die without Jesus going to hell. Last year we saw over 150 people come to know Christ in a personal way. God has blessed this ministry and we pray that this year even more would come to know HIM in a personal way.
We will have 3 times that we present Death's Door. The dates are Friday October 19 at 7:00pm, Saturday October 20 at 6:00pm, and Friday October 26 at 7:00pm. This will be a free ticketed event. If you would like more information on Death's Door please go to http://www.rockspringsbaptist.com/ or call the church office at 864-859-9854.
ARE YOU READY!!!!!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Gut Check
Right now it is early Sunday morning. I am about to go off to staff prayer time and get ready for this day. Yesterday in college football was called "Gut Check Saturday." There were a lot of great games on and many of them involved teams that needed a gut check.
I think it is time that we as Christians needed a Gut Check. You know to find out who we really are. I am afraid that a lot of people do what some teams I watched on TV yesterday did. That is go throw the motions. There was no urgency, no emotion, no excitement, they just showed up and went through the motions of playing football. Many Christians do the same thing when they come to church. They come in sit in their same seat, sing the songs their told to sing, their is no urgency to see the lost saved. When we come to worship at church (because worship is actually everything that we do) we should do so with excitement for the one who has rescued us out of a fiery HELL and given us new life in him.
Two quotes to leave you with today.
1. Why is it that we want to complain and have a staff member go to the guy who comes into church with a pair of shorts on and a baseball cap and have him take his hat off, yet we have women every week who are half dressed and nobody ever says anything about that.
Let me preface this by saying that I hate losing. It makes me sick if I lose at anything, and when my team loses. This one hit me hard this morning.
2. Why is it that when our team loses that it ruins our whole week and bothers us so bad we cant stand it, yet when it comes to lost people going to HELL, we have no feelings on the matter and it doesn't move us at all.
Just some things to think about for this week.
I think it is time that we as Christians needed a Gut Check. You know to find out who we really are. I am afraid that a lot of people do what some teams I watched on TV yesterday did. That is go throw the motions. There was no urgency, no emotion, no excitement, they just showed up and went through the motions of playing football. Many Christians do the same thing when they come to church. They come in sit in their same seat, sing the songs their told to sing, their is no urgency to see the lost saved. When we come to worship at church (because worship is actually everything that we do) we should do so with excitement for the one who has rescued us out of a fiery HELL and given us new life in him.
Two quotes to leave you with today.
1. Why is it that we want to complain and have a staff member go to the guy who comes into church with a pair of shorts on and a baseball cap and have him take his hat off, yet we have women every week who are half dressed and nobody ever says anything about that.
Let me preface this by saying that I hate losing. It makes me sick if I lose at anything, and when my team loses. This one hit me hard this morning.
2. Why is it that when our team loses that it ruins our whole week and bothers us so bad we cant stand it, yet when it comes to lost people going to HELL, we have no feelings on the matter and it doesn't move us at all.
Just some things to think about for this week.
Friday, October 5, 2007
The Crazy Adventures of
Myself, Eric, Joey, Keith, Delk, and Jason. Yesterday was by far one of the best game day experiences that I have had since I have been going to the games at USC. It was also the second longest day of my life (the first was when game day was in Columbia in 2001 for the Florida game). I thought I would take you through it.
7:45am- I awake and jump in the shower. The game is on my mind but, I know it is still 12 hrs away.
8:30am- I arrive at work, spend time with Jesus, and then head off to the hospital where I hope to be an encouragement to those who are in there.
10:30am- I finish the hospitals and head home to change into my game day attire and play a quick game of NCAA 2008 on PlayStation 2. Final score Me- 91 Clemson-7 (it was great).
12:30pm- Everyone is now at Eric's. We get the car ready with our flags and magnets and head off to what we hope is going to be a great day for the Gamecocks.
2:15pm- We arrive in Columbia to a misting rain. We start to walk toward the stadium where we get a free Carolina Football T-shirt. Good day so far.
4:00pm- After a brief look at the Packman, we head to Bojangles to get some food. The stories told at that table were priceless. I needed all the laughter and boy did we laugh.
5:00pm- We head back to Packman where we all catch a Southern Fried Football T-shirt, listen to QCB and the whiner line. We then decide to go put all our stuff in the car. It is now just under hrs to kickoff.
7:46pm- Kickoff.
8:02pm- Eric Norwood scores one of his 2 defensive touchdowns of the game.
11:34pm- BALLGAME. The #8 Wildcats fall to the Gamecocks.
1:02am- I am about to die from lack of food (OK, not really, but it makes the story better). We stop in at the local Waffle House. Only one word to describe it PRICELESS!!!!!
3:15am- I finally pull into my driveway, jump on the couch (didn't want to wake Erin up), take a short nap, and then back to work.
The past 24 hrs have been great, now I will need to next 48 to recover.
7:45am- I awake and jump in the shower. The game is on my mind but, I know it is still 12 hrs away.
8:30am- I arrive at work, spend time with Jesus, and then head off to the hospital where I hope to be an encouragement to those who are in there.
10:30am- I finish the hospitals and head home to change into my game day attire and play a quick game of NCAA 2008 on PlayStation 2. Final score Me- 91 Clemson-7 (it was great).
12:30pm- Everyone is now at Eric's. We get the car ready with our flags and magnets and head off to what we hope is going to be a great day for the Gamecocks.
2:15pm- We arrive in Columbia to a misting rain. We start to walk toward the stadium where we get a free Carolina Football T-shirt. Good day so far.
4:00pm- After a brief look at the Packman, we head to Bojangles to get some food. The stories told at that table were priceless. I needed all the laughter and boy did we laugh.
5:00pm- We head back to Packman where we all catch a Southern Fried Football T-shirt, listen to QCB and the whiner line. We then decide to go put all our stuff in the car. It is now just under hrs to kickoff.
7:46pm- Kickoff.
8:02pm- Eric Norwood scores one of his 2 defensive touchdowns of the game.
11:34pm- BALLGAME. The #8 Wildcats fall to the Gamecocks.
1:02am- I am about to die from lack of food (OK, not really, but it makes the story better). We stop in at the local Waffle House. Only one word to describe it PRICELESS!!!!!
3:15am- I finally pull into my driveway, jump on the couch (didn't want to wake Erin up), take a short nap, and then back to work.
The past 24 hrs have been great, now I will need to next 48 to recover.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Jeremiah 29:11
First off let me say that this verse has meant more to me over the past 2 months then it ever has in my short life of 25 years. Here we read that God has a plan for our lives. Sometimes we may not think that his plan for our life is going the way that it should or that sometimes maybe he has even forgotten about us. However, we all must realize that HIS PLANS ARE PERFECT!!!! God has never and will never make a mistake. When we don't understand HIS plan, we have to trust HIM, and when we do understand HIS plan we have to trust HIM.
What I do know is this. God allows us to go through things in order to help us grow in every area of our life. It is very easy for us to get mad at God and stray from him when tough times come. However, we must do the opposite. We must trust God, and run to HIM in the tough times as well as the good times. Bottom line is this, in the good and the bad GOD IS GOOD!!!
Erin and I would like to thank all of you for all the cards, meals, prayers, support, and encouragement over the past 3 weeks. We knew that people like you cared for us, but it has all of you have out done yourselves over this time in our lives. Please know that we deeply appreciated everything that everyone has done for us. We are trusting in HIS plans, and know that HIS GRACE will see us through.
WE LOVE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!!
What I do know is this. God allows us to go through things in order to help us grow in every area of our life. It is very easy for us to get mad at God and stray from him when tough times come. However, we must do the opposite. We must trust God, and run to HIM in the tough times as well as the good times. Bottom line is this, in the good and the bad GOD IS GOOD!!!
Erin and I would like to thank all of you for all the cards, meals, prayers, support, and encouragement over the past 3 weeks. We knew that people like you cared for us, but it has all of you have out done yourselves over this time in our lives. Please know that we deeply appreciated everything that everyone has done for us. We are trusting in HIS plans, and know that HIS GRACE will see us through.
WE LOVE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Wild Wednesday
I am now sitting in my office about to go out for our monthly Missions program that we have for our children. Its called Missions 360. Tonight our young people will learn about what God is doing in West Africa through OCC (Operation Christmas Child). Tonight we will introduce them to Operation Christmas child, and encourage each one of them to make a shoe box to be sent to children who are less fortunate then they are. What I like most about OCC is the fact that every shoe box will have a gospel storybook placed in it in the language to which the box is going. Each box represents a soul and it is amazing what God is doing through the OCC ministry.
This will probably be my last blog of the week unless I get around to it on Friday. In the meantime I am curious to see as to who out there is reading this blog. If you would leave a comment below.
Well you know I cant leave without talking about college football. Last week the Gamecocks lost to LSU. Let me remind you that the are the #2 team in the nation, and it was at their home stadium. I tried to tell some of you delusional Clemson fans that we would cover the spread, and we did just that. However, we are past the point of moral victories. Had the ball bounced our way a couple of times it could have been a different story. It didn't and now we face Miss. State.
I think the Gamecocks take this one right in stride. Though Miss. State has gone to Auburn and won, I don't think that will be the case this weekend. The Gamecocks win this one going away and cover the spread.
This will probably be my last blog of the week unless I get around to it on Friday. In the meantime I am curious to see as to who out there is reading this blog. If you would leave a comment below.
Well you know I cant leave without talking about college football. Last week the Gamecocks lost to LSU. Let me remind you that the are the #2 team in the nation, and it was at their home stadium. I tried to tell some of you delusional Clemson fans that we would cover the spread, and we did just that. However, we are past the point of moral victories. Had the ball bounced our way a couple of times it could have been a different story. It didn't and now we face Miss. State.
I think the Gamecocks take this one right in stride. Though Miss. State has gone to Auburn and won, I don't think that will be the case this weekend. The Gamecocks win this one going away and cover the spread.
Friday, September 21, 2007
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
I thought this was the perfect way to describe this week.
So the Friday Five looks back at this week and ahead to what hopes to be a great weekend.
1. The Good. Its always good to get away for a day or two, and that's what we did as a staff on Monday and Tuesday of this week. We headed up to stay in a house that overlooked Jones Gap state park. I would try to describe this place to you, but no one would believe how awesome this place was. It was great to get away as a staff and hang out, where no cell phones worked and no wireless Internet. Which brings us to #2.
2. The Bad. As we all know when you spend a day or two with people that you love, something is bound to go wrong. Let me tell you it did. It all started with a little sneeze and a runny nose, it ended with 4 out of the 7 sick and CVS a whole lot richer. Seems like when one person gets it we all get it. So though the retreat was fun and productive, it also made some of us sick. If you know anything about any of us, we cant afford to be sick. There is just to much to do, to be stuck in the bed hocking up stuff. OK so that might have been more than you wanted to know.
3. The Ugly. I am not the one who likes to be sick. As a matter of fact being sick vacuums (think about what a vacuum does). I don't do the sick thing well at all. I whine, complain, and don't want to do a darn thing. So when I get sick, which is not much, then I do just that. It drives my wife crazy. Being sick is an ugly thing, I'm just glad its Friday and I am some what better.
4. USC travels this weekend to Baton Rouge, LA. tho face the #2 team in the nation. With the events of this week I have not thought much about this game. But today is Friday and I just made my picks in the weekly Pickem contest that I am apart of. They odds makers say that LSU is favored by 16 points. I don't know if we can go down there and pull off the upset or not. What I do know is that we have Steve Spurrier and I would never count him out. We may get beat but it want be by more than 16.
5. I AM GOING TO GET SOME REST!!!!! I AM TIRED OF BEING SICK!!!!!!
So the Friday Five looks back at this week and ahead to what hopes to be a great weekend.
1. The Good. Its always good to get away for a day or two, and that's what we did as a staff on Monday and Tuesday of this week. We headed up to stay in a house that overlooked Jones Gap state park. I would try to describe this place to you, but no one would believe how awesome this place was. It was great to get away as a staff and hang out, where no cell phones worked and no wireless Internet. Which brings us to #2.
2. The Bad. As we all know when you spend a day or two with people that you love, something is bound to go wrong. Let me tell you it did. It all started with a little sneeze and a runny nose, it ended with 4 out of the 7 sick and CVS a whole lot richer. Seems like when one person gets it we all get it. So though the retreat was fun and productive, it also made some of us sick. If you know anything about any of us, we cant afford to be sick. There is just to much to do, to be stuck in the bed hocking up stuff. OK so that might have been more than you wanted to know.
3. The Ugly. I am not the one who likes to be sick. As a matter of fact being sick vacuums (think about what a vacuum does). I don't do the sick thing well at all. I whine, complain, and don't want to do a darn thing. So when I get sick, which is not much, then I do just that. It drives my wife crazy. Being sick is an ugly thing, I'm just glad its Friday and I am some what better.
4. USC travels this weekend to Baton Rouge, LA. tho face the #2 team in the nation. With the events of this week I have not thought much about this game. But today is Friday and I just made my picks in the weekly Pickem contest that I am apart of. They odds makers say that LSU is favored by 16 points. I don't know if we can go down there and pull off the upset or not. What I do know is that we have Steve Spurrier and I would never count him out. We may get beat but it want be by more than 16.
5. I AM GOING TO GET SOME REST!!!!! I AM TIRED OF BEING SICK!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Slow Week
this is going to be a slow blogging week. Just got back into town and I fell like, well I dont fell good at all.
Look for the Friday Five for a recap of this week, and a look toward the weekend.
God Bless!!!
Clint
Look for the Friday Five for a recap of this week, and a look toward the weekend.
God Bless!!!
Clint
Friday, September 14, 2007
It's Here
the weekend. Finally, this has been a very long stressful week. I am glad that the weekend is here and that means college football.
So here's the FRIDAY FIVE!!!!
1. Let me send my thoughts and prayers to the Oxandine family. I considered Mr. O a teacher, supporter, encourager, but most of all friend. The Easley High School community has lost one of their best. Mr. O will be missed by us all. My God comfort his wife, children, and family members during this very difficult time. Because of Jesus we can make it through these times in our lives.
2. Tonight should be a very emotional night on the Easley High campus. Tonight is Homecoming as the Greenwave take on Boiling Springs. Last week the Greenwave got by Liberty 21-20, and Boiling Springs enters tonight's game undefeated. Hopefully the weather will be good, and this will be an entertaining game. No doubt the events of this week will be on everyone's mind, but as we all know Mr. O may not be their physically, but he will be there and I can imagine that he will be yelling at the refs even up in Heaven. Go Wave!!!!
3. Tomorrow I will take my sister to her very first South Carolina game. I am looking forward to here experiencing the sights and sounds that is Carolina football. The best part of the game may come at halftime. From what I hear the SC State band will be there and doing a show at the half. If you have never seen them perform you have missed something. They are great. As for the football game, I think Carolina takes care of business early and then we get to see some of the young guys play. My prediction SC-54 SC State-14
4. Clemson want have it as easy as they may think. Furman rolls into Death Valley looking to pull an App. State. Last time Furman came into the Valley, Clemson held on for a 24-17 victory. For all you Tiger fans that think I am crazy, let me remind you that Furman almost beat UNC last year, and went to Pitt. a couple of years ago and had them beat until Pitt. won in OT. So this game might not be as easy as you think. With all that said, I do believe that Clemson's speed will be to much for the Paladins. My prediction Furman 17- Clemson-27
5. This Sunday is going to be awesome here at Rock Springs. We will have a 10am service only with no Bible Fellowship. Though we all worship together on Sunday nights, it is going to be great having one morning worship service. The place should be packed, and I hope that you have prayed about what God would have you give to our new building campaign. Then Sunday night is going to be just as good. The choir will be singing a number of the songs that they recorded on their new CD "I Rest My Case At The Cross." After the service you will have a chance to purchase the CD. Remember we are not doing this to show off the choir or to make money on a CD. We are doing this to showcase our wonderful Savior, and through this we pray that someone would come to know Jesus in a personal way. I can't wait.
So here's the FRIDAY FIVE!!!!
1. Let me send my thoughts and prayers to the Oxandine family. I considered Mr. O a teacher, supporter, encourager, but most of all friend. The Easley High School community has lost one of their best. Mr. O will be missed by us all. My God comfort his wife, children, and family members during this very difficult time. Because of Jesus we can make it through these times in our lives.
2. Tonight should be a very emotional night on the Easley High campus. Tonight is Homecoming as the Greenwave take on Boiling Springs. Last week the Greenwave got by Liberty 21-20, and Boiling Springs enters tonight's game undefeated. Hopefully the weather will be good, and this will be an entertaining game. No doubt the events of this week will be on everyone's mind, but as we all know Mr. O may not be their physically, but he will be there and I can imagine that he will be yelling at the refs even up in Heaven. Go Wave!!!!
3. Tomorrow I will take my sister to her very first South Carolina game. I am looking forward to here experiencing the sights and sounds that is Carolina football. The best part of the game may come at halftime. From what I hear the SC State band will be there and doing a show at the half. If you have never seen them perform you have missed something. They are great. As for the football game, I think Carolina takes care of business early and then we get to see some of the young guys play. My prediction SC-54 SC State-14
4. Clemson want have it as easy as they may think. Furman rolls into Death Valley looking to pull an App. State. Last time Furman came into the Valley, Clemson held on for a 24-17 victory. For all you Tiger fans that think I am crazy, let me remind you that Furman almost beat UNC last year, and went to Pitt. a couple of years ago and had them beat until Pitt. won in OT. So this game might not be as easy as you think. With all that said, I do believe that Clemson's speed will be to much for the Paladins. My prediction Furman 17- Clemson-27
5. This Sunday is going to be awesome here at Rock Springs. We will have a 10am service only with no Bible Fellowship. Though we all worship together on Sunday nights, it is going to be great having one morning worship service. The place should be packed, and I hope that you have prayed about what God would have you give to our new building campaign. Then Sunday night is going to be just as good. The choir will be singing a number of the songs that they recorded on their new CD "I Rest My Case At The Cross." After the service you will have a chance to purchase the CD. Remember we are not doing this to show off the choir or to make money on a CD. We are doing this to showcase our wonderful Savior, and through this we pray that someone would come to know Jesus in a personal way. I can't wait.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Psalm 111:9
Wow what a great verse. As a mater of fact this whole chapter is filled with some awesome things about our great Savior. Verse 9 has been very real to me this week. Here David is writing and talks about Salvation that has been brought to us by God.
He goes on to say and don't miss this "Holy and Awesome is His name." Each day I am reminded that we serve a Holy and Awesome God. Because of what Christ has done for us we should give him the honor, glory, and praise that is due his name.
Today we lift up our lives to Him and proclaim "Holy and Awesome is His Name."
We had a great year last year in our ministry (we run our year from Sept. to Sept.) Over that time span we saw 54 of our students make 1st time decisions to follow Christ. Of those 45 of them went through our New Believers class for Children and were baptized. We had over 300 students attend our VBS (most we have ever had by far) and saw many decisions made that week. For the first time we had a Father/Son retreat, Mother/Daughter outing, and lots of other things for our children. Whether it was through our recreation ministry, camps, Bible fellowship, TeamKid, Missions 360, or all the other crazy things that we did, one thing is for certain. God has blessed us at Rock Springs.
So what about this year. This year I am looking forward to God doing even more. I am praying for more and expecting more. All I know is this, it sure is fun to be involved with something that God is doing. Will you join me?
He goes on to say and don't miss this "Holy and Awesome is His name." Each day I am reminded that we serve a Holy and Awesome God. Because of what Christ has done for us we should give him the honor, glory, and praise that is due his name.
Today we lift up our lives to Him and proclaim "Holy and Awesome is His Name."
We had a great year last year in our ministry (we run our year from Sept. to Sept.) Over that time span we saw 54 of our students make 1st time decisions to follow Christ. Of those 45 of them went through our New Believers class for Children and were baptized. We had over 300 students attend our VBS (most we have ever had by far) and saw many decisions made that week. For the first time we had a Father/Son retreat, Mother/Daughter outing, and lots of other things for our children. Whether it was through our recreation ministry, camps, Bible fellowship, TeamKid, Missions 360, or all the other crazy things that we did, one thing is for certain. God has blessed us at Rock Springs.
So what about this year. This year I am looking forward to God doing even more. I am praying for more and expecting more. All I know is this, it sure is fun to be involved with something that God is doing. Will you join me?
Sunday, September 9, 2007
I TRIED TO TELL YA
THE OL BALL COACH HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!!GAMECOCKS 16
PUPPIES 12
(bulldogs)
Go Gamecocks!!!!!!
Friday, September 7, 2007
Friday Five
I got this idea from my good buddy Jay Hardwick. Jay is a church planter, and is currently moving to the great city of Columbia SC. Pray for Jay and his family as they begin a brand new work for Christ in Columbia. Jay is also a huge Gamecock fan, I guess that's why we get along so well.
So here is this weeks Friday Five.
1. Erin and I are truly blessed as to what God is doing in our lives. He has been so faithful to the both of us and we are truly grateful for what he has done, is doing, and is going to do in the days to come. To God be the glory great things he has done.
2. I am really excited about the opportunity to preach this week at the church that I grew up in. I will be doing their Homecoming service during the am worship time. Pray that God will use me as his mouth piece to say exactly what he wants said. I am looking forward to going and doing what I love doing (sharing the precious Word of God).
3. While preparing the sermon over the past couple of weeks God began to show me some brand new things. I will be preaching on one of the most well known homecomings in the Bible. As the prodigal son found himself in the pig pen, I was reminded that no one forced him there. People today are in pig pens. No one forced them their, they did it to themselves. Are you in a pig pen today? Maybe it is the pig pen of pornography, or maybe its jealously, or it could be unfaithfulness, and for some it might be a financial pig pen. Whatever your pig pen is today, remember that our God stands with arms wide open ready to welcome you back home. Why don't today you repent of those things that are keeping you from him and COME HOME!!!
4. It is going to be a great weekend of College Football. The Gamecocks head down the road to play Georgia. From what I have been hearing nobody gives us a chance in this game. Here is my thoughts. Steve Spurrier!!!! that's all I need to say. Some how so way, i think the Gamecocks pull this one out in the end.
5. It's another Saturday in the South. That means College Football. Oh, I just said that in #4. Oh well you can never get enough of College Football.
Have a great weekend!!!!
So here is this weeks Friday Five.
1. Erin and I are truly blessed as to what God is doing in our lives. He has been so faithful to the both of us and we are truly grateful for what he has done, is doing, and is going to do in the days to come. To God be the glory great things he has done.
2. I am really excited about the opportunity to preach this week at the church that I grew up in. I will be doing their Homecoming service during the am worship time. Pray that God will use me as his mouth piece to say exactly what he wants said. I am looking forward to going and doing what I love doing (sharing the precious Word of God).
3. While preparing the sermon over the past couple of weeks God began to show me some brand new things. I will be preaching on one of the most well known homecomings in the Bible. As the prodigal son found himself in the pig pen, I was reminded that no one forced him there. People today are in pig pens. No one forced them their, they did it to themselves. Are you in a pig pen today? Maybe it is the pig pen of pornography, or maybe its jealously, or it could be unfaithfulness, and for some it might be a financial pig pen. Whatever your pig pen is today, remember that our God stands with arms wide open ready to welcome you back home. Why don't today you repent of those things that are keeping you from him and COME HOME!!!
4. It is going to be a great weekend of College Football. The Gamecocks head down the road to play Georgia. From what I have been hearing nobody gives us a chance in this game. Here is my thoughts. Steve Spurrier!!!! that's all I need to say. Some how so way, i think the Gamecocks pull this one out in the end.
5. It's another Saturday in the South. That means College Football. Oh, I just said that in #4. Oh well you can never get enough of College Football.
Have a great weekend!!!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Wild Wednesday
It's staff meeting day!!!
Fianally getting back into the swing of things after a very long weekend. God really blessed over the long weekend. Erin and I are very excited about what God is doing in our lives.
As for football!!!
I thought that the Gamecocks played ok. I think that the defense needs to do a better job of tackling. The offense played well, but with Blake coming back this week, dont count the Gamecocks out of this weeks game at Georgia. I will give my prediction tomorrow.
As for the tigers. Watching that game on Monday night made me sick. I cant stand all that orange. Its a good thing I didnt go. I can only imagine the crap all the Clemson fans would have been talking after this win. I'm sure now they will go undefeated and win the national championship. They have an easy one this week. But who knows after what App. State did to the Big House!!!
Have a great day!!!!!!
Fianally getting back into the swing of things after a very long weekend. God really blessed over the long weekend. Erin and I are very excited about what God is doing in our lives.
As for football!!!
I thought that the Gamecocks played ok. I think that the defense needs to do a better job of tackling. The offense played well, but with Blake coming back this week, dont count the Gamecocks out of this weeks game at Georgia. I will give my prediction tomorrow.
As for the tigers. Watching that game on Monday night made me sick. I cant stand all that orange. Its a good thing I didnt go. I can only imagine the crap all the Clemson fans would have been talking after this win. I'm sure now they will go undefeated and win the national championship. They have an easy one this week. But who knows after what App. State did to the Big House!!!
Have a great day!!!!!!
Friday, August 31, 2007
Can You Feel It
College football is here. So here are my thoughts for the weekend.
South Carolina Wins
Clemson Loses
Have a great LONG weekend.
Go GameCocks!!!!!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Is It Really
Wednesday. Where in the heck has this week gone. There so much that I want to say, but not the time to say it. Hopefully tomorrow I will give my thoughts on the opening weekend of college football.
Hope everyone is having a great week. Though its been busy. Mine has been wonderful.
Rock Springs folks remember that promotion is this Sunday.
Hope everyone is having a great week. Though its been busy. Mine has been wonderful.
Rock Springs folks remember that promotion is this Sunday.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
What An Awesome God
As you may know I am addicted to youtube. Before you start thinking that all I do is look for useless junk on there, watch this video. It is amazing.
Not to much you can say after that. Today I pray that your chains have been broken. If not why not today ask him to break your chains and set you free.
You do not want to miss church Sunday. It is going to be incredible.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Terific Tuesday
I guess because I'm off today. This will be the first day all summer that I have to do absolutely nothing. I'm sure by lunch time I will be into something though.
My 3 thoughts on the game from last Friday.
1. Easley's new offense is going to be fun to watch. They opened it up, and Pickens couldn't stop them.
2. Pickens tight end is a beast. This kid caught everything that was thrown his way. He is a strong kid, and likes to make plays. He is a division one type of player. I hope someone gives him a shot.
3. Easley is very young on defense (and it showed). They have got to work on their tackling. At one point a Pickens player had 3 guys on him and he broke away for a TD. That cant happen if Easley wants to win against the top teams in region 1 AAAA.
Both these teams should win some football games this year. Its going to be fun to watch.
In a more spiritual sense. I was reading from Isaiah 6 this morning. There Isaiah sees God and all of his glory, realizes his sin, confesses his sin, and God forgives him. I am reminded that when we truly see God for who he is, a pure, holy, and righteous God, then we will fall on our
faces because we realize that we are a sinful people. After Isaiah confesses an angel comes down and touches his lips with a coal (because Isaiah said he was a man of unclean lips). What about you? What do you need God to touch in your life? Why not today we see God for who he is, realize what our sin is, confess that sin, and allow God to forgive us of that sin, and then we will be able to worship him like he has called us to do.
Have a great day!!!!!!
My 3 thoughts on the game from last Friday.
1. Easley's new offense is going to be fun to watch. They opened it up, and Pickens couldn't stop them.
2. Pickens tight end is a beast. This kid caught everything that was thrown his way. He is a strong kid, and likes to make plays. He is a division one type of player. I hope someone gives him a shot.
3. Easley is very young on defense (and it showed). They have got to work on their tackling. At one point a Pickens player had 3 guys on him and he broke away for a TD. That cant happen if Easley wants to win against the top teams in region 1 AAAA.
Both these teams should win some football games this year. Its going to be fun to watch.
In a more spiritual sense. I was reading from Isaiah 6 this morning. There Isaiah sees God and all of his glory, realizes his sin, confesses his sin, and God forgives him. I am reminded that when we truly see God for who he is, a pure, holy, and righteous God, then we will fall on our
faces because we realize that we are a sinful people. After Isaiah confesses an angel comes down and touches his lips with a coal (because Isaiah said he was a man of unclean lips). What about you? What do you need God to touch in your life? Why not today we see God for who he is, realize what our sin is, confess that sin, and allow God to forgive us of that sin, and then we will be able to worship him like he has called us to do.
Have a great day!!!!!!
Saturday, August 18, 2007
4 in a row
Last night the Easley Greenwave beat their cross town rival Pickens Blue Flame 37-26.
I will recap this game and give my thoughts later.
Just wanted to post the win. Great job Greenwave.
I will recap this game and give my thoughts later.
Just wanted to post the win. Great job Greenwave.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Just For Laughs
Did everybody hear? Georgia has fired its head football coach Mark Rich. In a stunning decision out of Athens, the AD has said that Rich just cant get the dawgs up for the big games and their bark has been bigger than their bite these last few years.
Even more stunning is that after Rich was fired, was the announcement of the new football coach.
The AD has named Michael Vick as the new football coach at UGA. Ask why this decision, the AD replied "we thought he was the best choice to get the Dawgs to finally start biting."
OK..so I don't claim to be a comedian. But that's funny, I don't care who you are.
With school right around the corner. I thought this was just right.
Now for my prediction on the game tomorrow night. I never pick against my Alma Mater on this game. I say the final score is Easley 23- Pickens 16 (sorry Chad). This game will be decided in the final quarter.
Even more stunning is that after Rich was fired, was the announcement of the new football coach.
The AD has named Michael Vick as the new football coach at UGA. Ask why this decision, the AD replied "we thought he was the best choice to get the Dawgs to finally start biting."
OK..so I don't claim to be a comedian. But that's funny, I don't care who you are.
With school right around the corner. I thought this was just right.
Now for my prediction on the game tomorrow night. I never pick against my Alma Mater on this game. I say the final score is Easley 23- Pickens 16 (sorry Chad). This game will be decided in the final quarter.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Game Week
It is finally here. This is Game Week. No more jambrees, 7 on 7, or scrimages. This week is for real. Not only is it the first game of the season but it is a rivalary game. Thats right its.
vs. 
First let me say that I have no inside knowledge or do I claim to be a football expert. What I do know is that this is one of the most intense rivals in all of high school football. With 8 miles in between the two schools, the Easley/Pickens game is one of the biggest games of the season.
Over the past few years Easley has had the upper hand in this long series that dates way back in time. In 2005 Easley defeated Pickens 27-21, in 2006 Easley defeated Pickens 13-19. Before 2005 the two teams would trade wins from year to year. However, in rivalry games you can throw history out the window. No matter what their records were the previous year, you can bet that this game is going to be close.
The Greenwave come off one of their best seasons in a long time. Last year they finished with a 7-5 record, made the playoffs for the first time in a long time, and gave Clover everything they could handle before losing in the first round of the playoffs. What will this year hold for the Wave. Well they lose 32 seniors from last years team, and they are very young. The QB position will be key in this years team. From the looks of things they are going to run 5 wide and throw the ball all over the field. The defense is going to have to step up in a big way. The Wave will replace most of the defense including the linebacker position where it will replace its leading tackler from a year ago in Jonathan Stone (graduation). The Greenwave will play with a lot of emotion for this big game.
The Blue Flame will enter Friday nights contest riding a 6-6 record from a year ago. The Flame made it to the second round of the 3a playoffs last year before getting beat. I don't know much about this years Pickens team, but in years gone by I can say that they will come ready to play. Pickens will have to replace their all-conference offensive lineman Wilson Norris who is playing for Clemson. Pickens will replace 17 seniors form a year ago. In recent years Pickens has liked to line up and run, run, run. This year may be the same. We will see Friday night. What we do know is that Pickens will play hard, with class, and with a lot of heart. If Easley takes this team lightly they will get beat.
So here's what we know. Brice Field will be packed (standing room only), it will be hot, houses will be divided, and it should be one heck of a football game. We know that CSS will be there to televise the game, 104.9fm will be there to broadcast the game on the radio, and the place will be rocking. Who will have bragging rights for the next 364 days? We will find out THIS FRIDAY NIGHT. I CANT WAIT.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Where Did This Week Go
Whats up crazy Internet people. Where in the world did this week go? As I sit here on Friday I am thinking what happened this week. So I made a list of some things from this week.
1. Spurrier is the man. For those who don't know. We had some recruits that were denied admission into school. Spurrier calls the university out, and before weeks end, gets what he wants. Now if Spurrier will just give us what we want. A championship, and beat Clemson for the second straight year.
2. My golf game really needs improving. Dad and I hit the links Thursday afternoon. I am going to blame my play on it being 1000 degrees outside, but the truth is I really need to play more if I am going to improve any.
3. IT HAS BEEN HOT!!!!!! I really don't need to explain.
4. After watching Bruce Almighty last night I was reminded that we could never ever possibly be God and our lives without him are meaningless. God gives us a choice to allow him to be part of our lives or not. In the movie Bruce cannot mess with the freewill of people. In the same way we have freewill in our lives. God does not force us to love him or to let him be a part of our lives. WE have to make a conscience decision each day to allow God to be a part of our lives. We also have to make the decision to follow him or not. At the end of the movie Bruce gets on his knees and yells out to God. "I surrender to your will for my life." I wonder today have you surrendered to God's will for your life.
I will preview the Easley/Pickens football game for next week on Monday.
Have a great weekend.
1. Spurrier is the man. For those who don't know. We had some recruits that were denied admission into school. Spurrier calls the university out, and before weeks end, gets what he wants. Now if Spurrier will just give us what we want. A championship, and beat Clemson for the second straight year.
2. My golf game really needs improving. Dad and I hit the links Thursday afternoon. I am going to blame my play on it being 1000 degrees outside, but the truth is I really need to play more if I am going to improve any.
3. IT HAS BEEN HOT!!!!!! I really don't need to explain.
4. After watching Bruce Almighty last night I was reminded that we could never ever possibly be God and our lives without him are meaningless. God gives us a choice to allow him to be part of our lives or not. In the movie Bruce cannot mess with the freewill of people. In the same way we have freewill in our lives. God does not force us to love him or to let him be a part of our lives. WE have to make a conscience decision each day to allow God to be a part of our lives. We also have to make the decision to follow him or not. At the end of the movie Bruce gets on his knees and yells out to God. "I surrender to your will for my life." I wonder today have you surrendered to God's will for your life.
I will preview the Easley/Pickens football game for next week on Monday.
Have a great weekend.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Wow What A Weekend
This past weekend was one of the best weekends that I have had in a long long time.
It all started with Erin and I going up to the mountains for a few days. We stayed at a place called Solitude Point. It was incredible. The TV had bunny ears (for the younger ones this means they did not have cable), and we stayed in a one room cabin. Guys if you are looking for a romantic getaway where there is nothing, this is the place to go.
On Friday we got up and went horse back riding at Eden Farms. We had a great time riding through the woods and on the trail. After that we went to NC and went on a hike to some waterfalls. We had a great time just being together.
On Sunday God toped the weekend off in powerful way. God allowed me lead a 7 year old and a 9 year old to faith in him. I am reminded each time this happens how wonderful Salvation is. To God be the glory great things he has done.
PS: High School and College football reports this week (sometime).
It all started with Erin and I going up to the mountains for a few days. We stayed at a place called Solitude Point. It was incredible. The TV had bunny ears (for the younger ones this means they did not have cable), and we stayed in a one room cabin. Guys if you are looking for a romantic getaway where there is nothing, this is the place to go.
On Friday we got up and went horse back riding at Eden Farms. We had a great time riding through the woods and on the trail. After that we went to NC and went on a hike to some waterfalls. We had a great time just being together.On Sunday God toped the weekend off in powerful way. God allowed me lead a 7 year old and a 9 year old to faith in him. I am reminded each time this happens how wonderful Salvation is. To God be the glory great things he has done.
PS: High School and College football reports this week (sometime).
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Hump Day
Not sure why the call Wednesdays "hump day." I guess it is because its the middle of the week and if you can get over the "hump" then the rest of the week will be good. Other then that I have no clue. My good friend Jonathan says that it is b/c its all downhill after Wednesday.
I learned something last night from my dog (he is much bigger now). 
Dogs cant talk to us (well some people think they understand what the are saying). When he needs more food, he asks (barks). When he needs to go outside, he asks (barks). If he doesnt do these things then I would never know what he needed. I may know that he needs more food because his bowl is empty, or that he needs to go outside because it has been a while since the last potty break. However, he lets me know anyway.
Dogs cant talk to us (well some people think they understand what the are saying). When he needs more food, he asks (barks). When he needs to go outside, he asks (barks). If he doesnt do these things then I would never know what he needed. I may know that he needs more food because his bowl is empty, or that he needs to go outside because it has been a while since the last potty break. However, he lets me know anyway. It's the same way with our God. He knows that we need strength, he knows when we need a financial miracle, he knows everything that we need and when we need it. However, he is waiting on us to ask him for those things. Jeremiah 33:3 says for us to call upon the Lord, and he will show us great and mighty things which we do not know. In other words, God wants us to be totally dependent upon him. Just like my dog is dependent on me to take him out and give him food, God wants us to depend on him for everything.
In no way shape or form am I saying that we are all dogs and need to ask to go to the bathroom or to be fed, I am just saying that we need to be dependent on HIM!!!!(JESUS)
Monday, July 30, 2007
Mondays!!!!
I never make life changing decisions on Monday. For some reason I never want to get out of bed on Mondays, my mind never works right, and it seems that for whatever reason I am always in a blah type of mood.
Nevertheless (i know thats a long word for me) today has been a good day so far.
God really moved in our services yesterday adding to our fellowship and to His Kingdom.
Last night we had baptism. We baptized the young and the older. Just a reminder that God is still working in our mist. I am reminded as to what David wrote in Psalm 63 v. 1. He says God, you are MY God David had a personal relationship with God. Here was a man that didn't deserve having this realtionship with God, yet God forgave David and restored fellowship with him.
In the same way you and I don't deserve a realtionship with God. However, God sent his son Jesus into this world to take care of our sin and give us personal fellowship with him. The question today is can you say like David said that he is "your God?" If not why not repent of your sins, and ask him to be your God today.
Have a blessed day!!!
Nevertheless (i know thats a long word for me) today has been a good day so far.
God really moved in our services yesterday adding to our fellowship and to His Kingdom.
Last night we had baptism. We baptized the young and the older. Just a reminder that God is still working in our mist. I am reminded as to what David wrote in Psalm 63 v. 1. He says God, you are MY God David had a personal relationship with God. Here was a man that didn't deserve having this realtionship with God, yet God forgave David and restored fellowship with him.
In the same way you and I don't deserve a realtionship with God. However, God sent his son Jesus into this world to take care of our sin and give us personal fellowship with him. The question today is can you say like David said that he is "your God?" If not why not repent of your sins, and ask him to be your God today.
Have a blessed day!!!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Are you ready for some football
Over the span of my life there have been just a handful of times that I have been able to brag about the Clemson/Carolina game. Since this year I have the honor of bragging rights, I thought I would bring back the feelings I had on a cool November day last year, and if you are a tiger fan I hope it brings back your feelings as well.
Football season is almost here. I can't wait.
Friday, July 27, 2007
TGIF
Thank the good Lord above it is Friday.
Wow what an awesome week. As the summer winds down and all the children prepare to go back to school, I think back to how awesome of a summer it has been. Busy, you can say that, but I would not want it any other way. God did some awesome things during our ministry this summer. Check back in August for a complete wrap-up of this awesome summer. (by the way I was seeing how many times I could use awesome in the paragraph.)
This weekend should be an excited one.
Have a great weekend. Make sure you find yourself at a place of worship (church) on Sunday.
See ya Monday bright and early (that is unless I have some great idea that I need to post before then).
Wow what an awesome week. As the summer winds down and all the children prepare to go back to school, I think back to how awesome of a summer it has been. Busy, you can say that, but I would not want it any other way. God did some awesome things during our ministry this summer. Check back in August for a complete wrap-up of this awesome summer. (by the way I was seeing how many times I could use awesome in the paragraph.)
This weekend should be an excited one.
Have a great weekend. Make sure you find yourself at a place of worship (church) on Sunday.
See ya Monday bright and early (that is unless I have some great idea that I need to post before then).
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Basketball Camp/Soccer Registration
Hey guys and gals.
Well day one of this whole blog thing is about to come to an end. Before I take the dog out one last time and get ready to head to dream land, I wanted to remind all the parents who have children that Basketball Camp and Soccer Registration are both going on right now at the church. You can follow the link below and it will give you all the information that you need.
Getting involved with sports is a great way for your child to meet other people and a great way for them to learn life lessons. I hope that you will consider getting them involved.
Have a great night. See ya in the morning (hopefully)
Here is the link
http://www.rockspringsbaptist.com/templates/System/details.asp?id=23396&PID=70964&Style=
Well day one of this whole blog thing is about to come to an end. Before I take the dog out one last time and get ready to head to dream land, I wanted to remind all the parents who have children that Basketball Camp and Soccer Registration are both going on right now at the church. You can follow the link below and it will give you all the information that you need.
Getting involved with sports is a great way for your child to meet other people and a great way for them to learn life lessons. I hope that you will consider getting them involved.
Have a great night. See ya in the morning (hopefully)
Here is the link
http://www.rockspringsbaptist.com/templates/System/details.asp?id=23396&PID=70964&Style=
Its Finally Here
Well, I now sit in my office on July 26, 2007 and came to the idea that I am going to try this whole blog thing out.
I don't know how well it is going to go but I am going to give it a try.
In the coming days, I will keep everyone posted on upcoming events in the Children's Minsitry, whats going on in the world around us, Gamecock Football (almost here), and whatever else decides to pop into my mind.
So Heres to Blogging.
I don't know how well it is going to go but I am going to give it a try.
In the coming days, I will keep everyone posted on upcoming events in the Children's Minsitry, whats going on in the world around us, Gamecock Football (almost here), and whatever else decides to pop into my mind.
So Heres to Blogging.
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