Connection Central

Twelve Tips for a Successful Campaign

2010-03-24T13:41:00.004-05:00

Steve Gladen (Saddleback Church) gives a really good overview of the twelve tips he has discovered for churches to enjoy a successful small group emphasis.

Check it out at http://pdsgn.wordpress.com/2010/03/24/twelve-tips-for-a-successful-campaign/

Prodigal God: Facebook Resources

2010-03-07T17:00:00.007-06:00

Below is the information and graphics you need to set up your own Prodigal God group on Facebook.

First of all you will have to set up a Facebook account if you don't already have one. To go to the page to set up your account click HERE.

Login to your face book account and click HERE to go to the group setup page.Facebook will ask you to enter some infromation about your group.

1. Group Name: Your group name must be unique but easy to find. We suggest you use Prodigal God Led By (Your name).

2. Description: Use the following as your description:

This six week study is based on the book by Timothy Keller, "The Prodigal God." The book and small group study examine the most famous of the parables of Jesus – the prodigal son. Together we will discover that the gospel is neither religion nor irreligion, neither morality nor immorality, but something else entirely.

3.Group Type: First select "Common Interest" then "Religion & Spirituality"

4. None of the other information is required, but we do ask that you provide an email address for members to be able to contact you directly and use the following link in Website:

http://www.theprodigalgod.com

This link will take people to an information page on the Prodigal God website.

5. Next you are directed to a settings page. To make things easiest and safest for you where you have the option click the button next to "only allow admins to..." and click the button next to closed group. This will allow your group to be found but you can control who has access. This will prevent people from joining who are just trying to disrupt your group.

6. Once you click on SAVE to save your group settings next you will have to "Publish" your group. Then you will be taken to the the group's page where you can upload a picture. We recommend you use this for your picture.

7. Finally, invite your group members!

The Prodigal God - 160 Groups so far!

2010-03-02T16:07:00.007-06:00

Hello Connection Central!

Wow! Four weeks before "Go-time" and we already have 160 groups that will be participating in the Prodigal God series during April 4-May 16.

It's not too late to volunteer as a host for this wonderful study. Just think! There are five friends, five family members, five coworkers, and five unchurched folks you know who are desperate for you to host a group so they can attend.

This is a great opportunity to gently blow out religious misconceptions and introduce the idea of an extravagant and loving God!

If you have not yet registered, there is still time. To sign up, just go to this address/link:
http://www.wordalive.org/register.php

Then meet me at the church for a short orientation:
Sunday, March 14 @ 6:00pm
Wednesday, March 17 @ 6:00 pm
Sunday, March 21 @ 11:30 am

Take a chance and be part of the 3G vision to gather, group, and give in 2010.

The Prodigal God

2010-02-16T16:28:00.002-06:00

It’s time to get together – 500 groups meeting simultaneously

What could possibly be so compelling and extravagant that 500 of us would jump at the chance to host a small group study?

Nothing less than the The Prodigal God!!! “Prodigal” simply means extravagantly lavish and luxuriant. This is your chance to be part of a small army of hosts who will blow the lid off religious hypocrisy and judgment and reveal the Father in a way many of us have never seen!

If you have always wanted to be part of a genuine move of God, this 6 week study may be the best opportunity you will ever have. As our church is experiencing extraordinary anointing and power during the services, we expect this same glory to overflow into the community.

Trust me – hosting a group does not require excessive preparation or biblical skill. It simply requires a willing heart, a coffee maker, and a DVD player. If you meet these “host” criteria and you want to see Word Alive accomplish our 3G goal of 500 small groups, the we need you to sign on NOW! All you have to do is go www.wordalive.org and click on the link to register as a host. Or just email me at bill@wordalive.org and let me know that I can count on you to host a small group study for:

The Prodigal God:
a 6 week small group study through DVD, discussion guide, and book.

http://www.wordalive.org/register.php

We will see you February 28th – Sunday at 6:00 in the TAMA Hall on the Coldwater Campus for an orientation and to get your materials in your hands. We will make is so simple and easy to host that you may invite several other friends to host as well, just to meet the demand. (Alternative dates for the Orientation will be announced, so don’t let that stop you!)

Spring Season of Small Groups - Open Letter

2010-02-08T15:00:00.006-06:00

Hello Team WAIO,

What an exciting time at WAIO! We are simply in the hands of the Holy Spirit and will continue to seek Him and His will for the future. We are embracing the ramifications of our little fire and our relocation to TAMA Hall where another little “fire” started a little over nine years ago.

Regarding our small groups for this “season,” I encourage you all to be flexible and available for whatever the Spirit might lead to do. Our plans call for a concentrated effort during Easter to group around the book and six-week preaching series called The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller.

I will operate on the assumption that all the groups from the Fall Season will continue to meet as they did in the Fall schedule, with the same basic focus, location, target group, childcare conditions, and time and frequency of meeting. This info is available to the public through www.wordalive.org. You may want to check the listing for your group and confirm that the info is correct.

The exception here is for those of you who led L.I.F.E. (Living in Freedom Everyday) groups. We will not re-launch this series until the Fall of 2010. We all were tremendously blessed by the series and the Retreat Weekend, but we could not discern a way to promote and complete the 12-15 week cycle for L.I.F.E. while also promoting a church-wide grouping campaign around The Prodigal God.

I encourage those of you who did lead the L.I.F.E. groups to continue to meet during this spring season on some regular schedule and prepare to embrace a leadership roll in the Prodigal God small group emphasis. You will want to identify some within you group who can host the six-week small group during the Easter season (April 4- May 9) and encourage them to do so.

We will sponsor a training and orientation (about 30 minutes) which will give you the basics on how to host a group, get you your material, and get the info on the "who, what, when, and where" of your group meeting. Orientations are scheduled for:

Sunday, February 28 at 6:00 pm in Connection Classroom 102
Wednesday, March 3 at 7:00 pm in the Connection Classroom 102
Sunday, March 7 at 11:30am and 1:00pm in the Connection Classroom 102

Thank you again for your prayer, support, service, gifts, and anointing. The small group leader, moving in the Spirit, is an essential key to sustained spiritual impact! You are at the right place, at the right time - connecting to God, people, and purpose.

Please feel free to contact me for clarification or counsel. Continue in prayer and I know we will see extraordinary advances in the spiritual realm. Be blessed!

Word Alive Live Streaming Temp

2010-01-17T10:04:00.000-06:00

44 Life Lessons - Regina Brett (90 years old)

2009-12-28T10:03:00.002-06:00

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 44 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:"

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone..
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15.. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful..
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ''In five years, will this matter?".
26. Always choose life.
27. Forgive everyone everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business.
29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31. Don't take yourself so seriously.. No one else does.
32. Believe in miracles.
33. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
34. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
35. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
36. Your children get only one childhood.
37. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
38. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
39. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd
grab ours back.
40. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
41. The best is yet to come.
42. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
43. Yield.
44. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Remaining Centered this Christmas

2009-12-14T11:42:00.001-06:00

By Pete Scazzero

It is ironic that Christmas is often the time we as pastors find ourselves least centered on Jesus. With the emergence of social media and new technologies, this problem has reached new proportions.

The following is an adaption of my top 10 lessons for leadership applied to this Advent season.

Be yourself.
You and I are uniquely crafted by God to lead. That means we cannot do what others can. You may be able to do more or less. The great challenge of leadership is to calmly differentiate your “true self” from the demands and voices around you. Discern the desires, vision, pace, and mission the Father has given as you lead. Take off Saul’s armor. How much activity can you sustain without losing your soul? And remember, “to live unfaithfully to yourself is to cause others great damage” (Rumi).
Your first work is to be contemplative before God (to be with him).
Our goal during this season is to lead people to Jesus and help them center on him. But you cannot bring people where you have not gone in God. We are not CEOs or even preachers first. We are called to be contemplatives first (Psalm 27:4). Above all else, cultivate a pure heart before God, loving him.

I like what Thomas Merton once wrote: “Untie my hands and deliver me from sloth. Set me free from the laziness that goes about disguised as activity when activity is not demanded of me and from the cowardice that does what is not demanded in order to escape sacrifice.”
Practice Sabbath.
Take a 24-hour period each week to Sabbath – to stop, rest, and contemplate God. You are not God. This essential spiritual formation practice is not something to drop during the celebration of Christ’s coming. I take from 6:00 p.m. Friday to 6:00 p.m. Saturday at a minimum. Large spiritual issues are at stake, especially with regard to trusting God to be in control. Relinquish the ministry to Jesus.
Embrace the gift of your limits.
Remember that “a man can receive only what is given him from heaven” (John 3:27). You will be present to your spouse and children in proportion to what you’ve received from being in God’s presence. It takes time and effort to think through thoughtful gifts with meaning for your family and key leaders. I encourage you to make sure you have the margin in your life to do that.
Wait on the Lord.
This is your life. You will finish the end of your days waiting on the Lord. This is the most important work there is if you are to allow your soul to grow up and be what God wants you to be. Be sure to carve out time for this.
Don’t neglect ministry to yourself.
“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16).Investing in your development is your first ministry. This includes monthly and quarterly retreats, utilizing the gift of therapy along the way, finding a good spiritual director, and seeking mentors at different stages of the journey. It is the most loving gift you can give your church. What does this mean for Christmas? Take a few moments now to ask God what you need to remain connected to him over the next few weeks.
Lead out of your vow of marriage.
Scripture is clear about marriage between one male and one female as a taste of Christ’s free love for his bride, the church. And central to this marriage vision is the sexual relationship. It is essential, not peripheral, to your spiritual formation and discipleship as a Christ-follower.
Live what you preach.
Good sermons take a lot of time to gestate. If the sermons aren’t changing you, they will not transform anyone else. This is both a joy and an agony if fresh revelation from Scripture is going to come through the unique prism of your life. This never changes, whether you have been preaching for six months or 30 years.
All the work of pastoring is holy and sacred.
It took me 19 years to learn this hard lesson, and I am still learning it. Preparing budgets and job descriptions, hiring, firing, planning a good meeting, handing in reports, confronting conflicts, etc. is every part as holy as prayer and Bible study. Be sure to fight against the sacred/secular split first in your own life and then in the life of the church. Recover a biblical theology of work and spirituality.
Things are not as they appear.
So often what looks like a blessing is not. What looks terrible in the short run is, very often, a rich gift. When you think you are going forward, you may be actually going backwards. What appears as success, oftentimes ends up being a failure and setback. Failures will teach you much more than success every time.

The pressures of Christmas can distract us from what’s most important. I hope these 10 lessons will help you focus on Christ and enjoy this holiday season.

Living In Freedom Everyday! Videos

2009-12-03T16:23:00.002-06:00

Hey guys,

Great news to announce. You can now access the three teaching videos from the Living In Freedom Everyday (LIFE) series we have been teaching in small groups this semester. I know, it's crazy, but it's true.

Pastor Kent recorded three lessons which introduce each significant section of the 12 week teaching. Here's how to access them:

http://wordalive.org/LIFE%20Videos.html

It's that simple. A special note to all of you who are hosting this L.I.F.E. curriculum in your small group: Please encourage those who have not been able to make every lesson to review these three teachings together with the workbook. Then let them know you expect them to attend our LIFE Retreat weekend. This Retreat Weekend is an opportunity to receive ministry to enter into a new level of FREEDOM as a vessel of honor for use in the Kingdom. The cost is $15 per attendee. The date is January 15 and 16 - Friday evening and Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

You have to register to attend, so get the info from your groups as to who can attend and notify me at bill@wordalive.org .

I encourage the rest of you to preview these teachings and plan to join a LIFE small group during the Spring or Fall Season of LIFE Groups 2010.

Be blessed!

The Mystery of Friendship

2009-11-19T13:49:00.003-06:00

Hey Guys and Dolls,

As we come close to bringing this Fall Season of LIFE groups to a close, I thought it would be good to reflect on friendships. God has given us the wonder-filled opportunity to share friendship with Him and with a few of His favorites. You have had these few months to perhaps enter into one of the great mysteries of life. Friendship. I hope you all find the relationships that will challenge and reward you as we walk together through LIFE. Be blessed!

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. Oren Arnold

Friendship is the source of the greatest pleasures, and without friends even the most agreeable pursuits become tedious. St. Thomas Aquinas 1225-1274, Italian Scholastic Philosopher and Theologian

We are never more discontented with others than when we are discontented with ourselves. Henri Frederic Amiel

For believe me, in this world which is ever slipping from under our feet, it is the prerogative of friendship to grow old with one's friends. Arthur S. Hardy

All things need watching, working at, caring for and marriage is no exception. Marriage is not something to be treated indifferently, or abused or something that simply takes care of itself. Nothing neglected will remain as it was or is, or will fail to deteriorate. All things need attention care and concern and especially so in this most sensitive of all relationships of life. Richard L. Evans

I want relations which are not purely personal, based on purely personal qualities; but relations based upon some unanimous accord in truth or belief, and a harmony of purpose, rather than of personality. I am weary of personality. Let us be easy and impersonal, not forever fingering over our own souls, and the souls of our acquaintances, but trying to create a new life, a new common life, a new complete tree of life from the roots that are within us. D. H. Lawrence 1885-1930, British Author

Kindness and intelligence don't always deliver us from the pitfalls and traps: there are always failures of love, of will, of imagination. There is no way to take the danger out of human relationships. Barbara Grizzuti Harrison 1941-, American Author, Publicist

Kindness and intelligence don't always deliver us from the pitfalls and traps: there are always failures of love, of will, of imagination. There is no way to take the danger out of human relationships.Barbara Grizzuti Harrison 1941-, American Author, Publicist

Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay awhile, make footprints on our hearts and we are never, ever the same. Anonymous

Do not use a hatchet to remove a fly from your friend's forehead. Chinese Proverb

There is an important difference between love and friendship. While the former delights in extremes and opposites, the latter demands equality. Francoise d'Aubign Maintenon

Cultivating Community

2009-11-05T10:19:00.003-06:00

You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor. James 3:18 (Msg)

Cultivating community takes honesty. You will have to care enough to lovingly speak the truth. While it is much easier to remain silent when others around us are harming themselves or others with a sinful pattern, it is not the loving hting to do. Most people have no one in their lives who love them enough to tell them the truth, so they continue in self destructive ways. Many fellowships have been sabotaged by fear: No one had the courage to speak up in the group while a member's life fell apart.
"An honest answer is a sign of true friendship."
"In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery."

Cultivating community takes humility. Self importance, smugness, and stubborn pride destroy fellowship faster than anything else. Pride builds walls between people; humility builds bridges. Pride blocks God's grace in our lives, which we must have inorder to grow, change, heal, and help others.
"Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another...because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

Cultivating community takes courtesy. Courtesy is respecting our differences, being considerate of others feelings, and being patient with people who irritate us. The truth is, we all have quirks and annoying traits. But community has little to do with compatibility. The basis for our fellowship is our relationship to God: We are family.
One key to courtesy is to understand where people are coming from. When you know what someone has been through, you will be more understanding. Another part of courtesy is no downplaying other people's doubts. Just because you don't fear something doesn't make it an invalid feeling. Real community happens when people know it is safe enough to share their doubts and fears without being judged.
"We must bear the burden of being considerate of the doubts and fears of others."
"God's people should be bighearted and courteous."
"Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect for each other."

Cultivating community takes confidentiality. Only in the safe environment os warm acceptance and trusted confidentiality will people open up and share their deepest hurts, needs, and mistakes. Confidentiality does not mean keeping silent while your brother sins. It means that what is shared in your group needs to stay in your group, and the group needs to deal with it, not gossip to it about others.
"Gossip is spread by wicked people; they stir up trouble and break up friendships."

Cultivating community takes frequency. Relationship takes time. Community is not built on convenience, but on the conviction that I need it for spiritual health. If you want to cultivate real fellowship, it will mean meeting together even when you don't feel like it, because you believe it is important.
"Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another."

We will share our true feelings (authenticity)
encourage each other (mutuality)
support each other (sympathy)
forgive each other (mercy)
speak the truth in love (honesty)
admit our weaknesses (humility)
respect our differences (courtesy)
not gossip (confidentiality)
make group a priority (frequency)

This post is taken in large part from Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose driven Life." - Chapter 19 (thanks Rick Warren!)

Connect Four Luncheon

2009-11-04T09:44:00.001-06:00

If you are new to Word Alive or you've been coming for a while and you've wondered, "How do I get connected, how can I get involved, how can I get to know more people...?" Well, we have the answer to your questions."Connect Four" is the meeting that will help you get the answers you need to connect here at Word Alive.

Sunday, November 8th immediately after the 3rd service Pastors Kent and Bev will share over a delicious meal how Word Alive got started, where we see the Lord is taking us, and the "four" ways that we can connect with what the Lord is doing here.If you would like to attend this meeting please reserve your seat with Nancy Mitchell at Nmitchell@wordalive.org

We look forward to connecting with you!

Ain't

2009-11-03T14:00:00.002-06:00

AIN'T

He was just a little boy,
On a week's first day.
Wandering home from Bible school,
And dawdling on the way.

He scuffed his shoes into the grass;
He even found a caterpillar.
He found a fluffy milkweed pod,
And blew out all the 'filler.'

A bird's nest in a tree overhead,
So wisely placed up so high.
Was just another wonder,
That caught his eager eye.

A neighbor watched his zig zag course,
And hailed him from the lawn;
Asked him where he'd been that day
And what was going on.

'I've been to Bible School ,'
He said and turned a piece of sod.
He picked up a wiggly worm replying,
'I've learned a lot about God.'

'M'm very fine way,' the neighbor said,
'for a boy to spend his time.'
'If you'll tell me where God is,
I'll give you a brand new dime.'

Quick as a flash the answer came!
Nor were his accents faint.
'I'll give you a dollar, Mister,
If you can tell me where God ain't.'

Bill and Santiago in Argentina

2009-10-18T06:17:00.006-05:00

Bill Byrd and Santiago Hechart are currently visiting with Word Alive Argentina in Buenos Aires. Below are a couple of pictures from the trip...

In this picture Bill is preaching to the congregation there as Santiago interprets...

Here Bill and Santiago are helping feed children at the feeding center...

Pray for Bill and Santiago as they help the people of WAIO Argentina to "Reveal and Activate their Divine Assignment".

Water Baptism - What's New?

2009-09-30T10:46:00.003-05:00

Hello WAIO Team,

We are now baptizing once a month and the next one is scheduled for next Sunday (October 11th) right after the third service. I really enjoyed the new format. I gave us a chance to host family and friends in an atmosphere of intimacy and fellowship. We have it in TAMA Hall and it really makes for a great experience.

I have a chance to preach/teach about water baptism before the actual baptism and I thought I would share with you something new. I know know there is very little new, but I have discovered that NEW is what water baptism is all about.

NEW Name! Our baptism in water is the celebration of identification with Jesus Christ. We know that we are coming into a new family - being born anew and adopted as well. We are even being betrothed to Christ. Every one of these events are accentuated with a name change in the natural. Water baptism is the natural act that activates a spiritual reality. A new name is given to us. We are now "called by His name." Our old identity is buried with the Lord and our new name identifies us as His "beloved son, in whom He is well pleased."

NEW Heart! Water Baptism puts us under the surgical knife of the Holy Spirit. While we are "under", the Scripture declares that the old, hard heart is removed and a new heart is given. We exchange our "deceitful and wicked" heart for the heart of God that is infused with the love of God by the Holy Spirit. Our heart is "circumcised" and we are now opened to receive the word (law) of God to be written on our hearts. We do not receive the old laws of God etched in stone that record the do's and don'ts of righteousness. We receive the revelation and knowledge of the law of life in Christ. It's the law of love for God and love for others. This new heart beats with one directive - a love life. What we could not do before in the flesh, we are now able to do in the Spirit. For we have received from the Holy Spirit a new heart!

NEW Life! I suppose the greatest symbolism accomplished in water baptism is the "burial" under the water and the "resurrection" that follows. The scriptures are clear in relating water baptism to the deathe of the old and the birth of the new. We are baptised into the figurative Red Sea as Israel was in the flight from Egypt. This "crossing over" typified the passing away of an old life of bondage to sin and oppressive works and a resurrection to a land of promise , freedom, and abundance. By simple obedience, we enter into the promises of God to live free and possess a land of rich inheritance. We leave these waters with a fire of His presence by night and the cloud of His presence by day. We are resurrected to a new life. Jesus came to give life - and that LIFE is to be abundant.

If you have those in your family or in your LIFE Group that have not been water baptized, please encourage them to join us October 13th and enter into the NEW thing that God is doing. Just contact Santiago@wordalive.org to register.

New Name! New Heart! New Life! Coming soon to a baptismal near you!

More Simple Guidelines for Praying for Individuals

2009-09-30T09:20:00.004-05:00

Here's a nice format for prayer ministry I picked up in a recent conference. This format is especially applicable to those who are seeking freedom for bondage and inner healing.

1) Interview to obtain a starting point. Rather than trying to guess or discern the prayer need, why not ask? Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask and you shall receive." It is effective and efficient when the person himself states the area of need for prayer. This opens the door for ministry by engaging the will and confession.

2) Forgive. To forgive is to loose, release, dismiss, and completely cancel the debt. It means we cease to blame and feel resentment. A candidate for God's intervention can position himself to receive by identifying and removing any barriers to receptivity. Matthew 6:14 says, "For if you forgive (loose, release, dismiss, and completely cancel the debt) men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive (loose, release, dismiss, and completely cancel the debt) you." You can lead in the steps to forgive by helping to indentify those to forgive, vocalizing forgiveness for that offending party, and then leading in vocalizing a blessing and release to that offending person.

3) Repent to God. To repent is to change one's mind and purpose away from sin and toward God. True repentance involves both a confession of sin and a willing turning away from that sin and an embrace of the righteous and godly actions that are opposite that sin. I think it is not only important to turn away but to help identify what positive and righteous acts and attitudes will serve to help overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).

4) Renounce the Enemy. To renounce is to disown and forbid the approach of that which is disowned. Sin gives access to the work of the Evil one and renders one a servant to the enemy in that area of sin. Having forgiven and repented, we are now in a position to evict the trespassing presence of the enemy in complete confidence. We have yielded to righteousness and are no longer subject to the influence of the enemy of our souls. You can now lead the person in vocalizing an eviction and dismissal of evil entities and their influences. James 4:7,8 says,"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the Devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you..."

5) Anoint to break the yoke of bondage. James 5:13-16 describes a powerful progression toward victory. The afflicted one solicits prayer, confessing his faults, is forgiven and raised up through the prayer of faith and the anointing of God. Anointing with oil can serve as a tangible touch point that signifies a sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. In receiving this anointing, a person identifies with God, disassociates with sin and the enemy, and positions himself for all the benefits of the effective prayer of faith. Isaiah 10:27 tells us that the yoke is destroyed through the anointing.

Just for Fun...

2009-09-24T16:10:00.006-05:00

Just for Fun...

Hey guys,

I read this story the other day and thought it was kind of funny. Enjoy.

Church feuds are not uncommon, especially among cliques in the congregation. But when the pastor and choir director get into it, stand aside.

One week our preacher preached on commitment, and how we should dedicate ourselves to service. The director then led the choir in singing, 'I Shall Not Be Moved.'

The next Sunday, the preacher preached on giving and how we should gladly give to the work of the Lord. The choir director then led the song, 'Jesus Paid It All.'

The next Sunday, the preacher preached on gossiping and how we should watch our tongues. The hymn was 'I Love To Tell The Story.'

The preacher became disgusted over the situation, and the next Sunday he told the congregation he was considering resigning. The choir then sang 'Oh, Why Not Tonight.'

When the preacher resigned the next week, he told the church that Jesus had led him there and Jesus was taking him away. The choir then sang, 'What A Friend We Have in Jesus.'

EQUIPPING CLASSES!

2009-09-24T14:05:00.002-05:00

Beginning October 4 @ 10AM connecting with God, People and Purpose will have a new face on Sunday mornings! Join us for our new Equipping Classes in our Connection for a powerful Word Alive twist on traditional Sunday school!

There will be four different classes to choose from, each one designed to challenge and empower you while digging a little deeper into God's Word. Since they're held during our middle service, you can enjoy a class without having to miss our main worship service - you can catch it before or after (and still have plenty of time to grab a cup of coffee!)

Kidz Alive will of course be available, with a new format perfectly designed to accommodate children who are staying for more than one service time. The WAY also has a 10:00 AM study group in T.A.M.A. Hall for middle and high school students.

So what classes are available? Glad you asked!

1. STEPS TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH
We'll explore the different steps that draw us into deeper levels of spiritual maturity. Through topics like prayer, faith, walking in freedom, and reading the Word we'll look at ways to help us grow spiritually.

2. OUR COVENANT
Salvation is just the start. In Jesus, all the benefits of the Kingdom have been made available to us. Through a closer look at the book of Hebrews we will discover the extravagant benefits of the Kingdom and God's covenant with us.
Taught by Jeff Fink.

3. SCHOOL OF WORSHIP
Break out of your box with new ideas about worship! Actually, they aren't all that new, but we'll get to that. The Lord wants to show His glory in an increasing measure in our lives. We'll explore strategies for our passion to worship Him.
Taught by Bill Byrd

4. QUARTER-LIFE
Are you a recent high school grad, a college student, or a twenty-something looking for purpose and direction? Got dreams and visions but not sure which direction to head? There was a guy in the Bible called Joseph, and he was a lot like you! God had a great plan for his life that took him through trials and into triumph. We'll receive inspiration and encouragement from a closer look at his life.
Taught by Nanette Mudiam

This series of classes will run until December 20. No registration is required; if you'd like more information, you can contact Nanette Mudiam at nmudiam@wordalive.org

Connect Four Lunch

2009-09-24T11:09:00.004-05:00

If you are new to Word Alive or you've been coming for a while and you've wondered, "How do I get connected, how can I get involved, how can I get to know more people...?" Well, we have the answer to your questions."Connect Four" is the meeting that will help you get the answers you need to connect here at Word Alive.

Sunday, October 4th immediately after the 3rd service Pastors Kent and Bev will share over a delicious meal how Word Alive got started, where we see the Lord is taking us, and the "four" ways that we can connect with what the Lord is doing here.If you would like to attend this meeting please reserve your seat with Nancy Mitchell at Nmitchell@wordalive.org

We look forward to connecting with you!

How to Pray for Someone in a Small Group

2009-09-23T10:12:00.003-05:00

Here's a little guideline for your prayer times in a small group environment.

1. Put the person for which you are praying at ease. A warm and sincere greeting will go a long way in accomplishing this. Whether a man or a woman, taking another’s hands in yours is a good way to put that person at ease and encourages him to come into agreement as you pray. We should avoid touching the bare arm or shoulder of another as it may cause one to feel a bit uncomfortable. Be sure to respect a person’s personal space by not crowding too close when you begin to pray, especially with those of the opposite sex. Once the person is at ease and ready for prayer…

2. Ask the area of need for which pray can be made. Give a person time to share what concerns and needs they have for prayer. However, try not to let the problems grow bigger with more talk about them. There are time restraints in a small group and others for which to pray. Once you have the gist of the needs…

3. Move to prayer as soon as it is reasonably appropriate. As you pray, remember that you are not the solution. It is alright to say, “I don’t have the answer, but God does.” There is no need to counsel at this point. Point the person to God and as you pray, use the Scriptures. Integrating the scriptures into your prayers builds faith for all the parties. Trust the Holy Spirit to bring applicable scriptures to your mind that will bring hope and faith as you pray them. After you have prayed…

4. Conclude by giving a Scripture verse to embrace. There will likely be a Scripture verse that the Spirit will affirm to you as especially relevant and alive for this person. Be sure share this “word” with him and encourage him to speak the promise of God to the circumstances over which you have prayed. At the conclusion of your time of personal prayer ministry, a simple hug and confident smile will be a comforting and affirming gesture.

Group With No Name

2009-09-22T19:53:00.004-05:00

Using nametags in your small group is a good idea. You could wind up like this guy without them...

Fall 2009 Life Leader Launch Luncheon

2009-09-22T13:22:00.005-05:00

Hey Life Leaders Fall 2009,

What a great time we had Sunday! Thanks you all so much for coming and my wish for you is a very successful Fall campaign.

I think you all enjoyed the videos and the few "simple" points we emphasized for the Fall. If you would like to review, just click on the links to see the videos again. Here's a review of the notes from the meeting!

Life Leader Launch Luncheon - Fall 2009

Welcome / Prayer / Let’s Eat

1. Small Groups are not Rocket Science

http://www.worshiphousemedia.com/mini-movies/12616/Small-Groups-Are-Not-Rocket-Science

Complicated vs. Simple

Be Prepared

Set the Atmosphere – Praise Music

2. Flying Solo

http://www.worshiphousemedia.com/mini-movies/10750/Flying-Solo

Greeters -get some

Assistants- get one

3. Small Groups (hi diddly do!)

http://sermonspice.com/search?q=small+groups&topic=All

Anonymity vs. vulnerability

Being Considerate

Prayer Protocol – Hokey Pokey, Spiritual overkill

Go online to check out the Freedom Prayer Format - (Interview, Forgive, Repent, Renounce, and Anoint to break the yoke)

4. Small group of One

http://www.worshiphousemedia.com/mini-movies/10751/Small-Group-Of-One

Touchy-Feely, Judgmental, Bible nerds, Desperate Singles, Black hole of Crushing Need

5. Gossip http://www.worshiphousemedia.com/mini-movies/13305/Gossip

Whatsoever things are honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, virtuous, praise…those things which you have learned, received, heard, seen in me, do: and the peace of God shall be with you! (Phil. 4:8-9)

Prophecy – Edification, Exhortation, Comfort

6. Your Packet- Prayer cards, Name Tags, Connection Cards(return to me via envelope)

Connection Central Updates - http://www.wordalive.org/

http://connectioncentral.blogspot.com/

Manage Your Group online - http://www.wordalive.org/ or

http://www.connectionpower.com

7. The Herd: Small Groups – ENJOY your small group!!!!!!

http://www.bluefishtv.com/Store/Downloadable_Video_Illustrations/2590/The_Herd_Small_Groups/f=s1&s=small%20groups

Upcoming Water Baptism!

2009-09-03T09:51:00.003-05:00

If you have recently dedicated your life to Jesus Christ water baptism could be your next step to grow in faith and in your relationship with God.

Sunday September 13 right after the 3rd service we will have a Water Baptism! If you would like to be baptized please email Santiago Hechart at santiago@wordalive.org

Orientation classes will take place on September 6th or September 13th at 10:45a.m. at the Connection. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with God in a new and powerful way.

We hope to see you there!

Get Connected at WAIO

2009-09-03T09:34:00.003-05:00

If you are new to Word Alive or you've been coming for a while and you've wondered, "How do I get connected with what's happening here, how can I get involved, how can I get to know more people...?" Well, we have the answer to your questions.

"Connect Four" is the meeting that will help you get the answers you need to connect here at Word Alive.

Sunday, September 6 immediately after the 3rd service Pastors Kent and Bev will share over a light meal how Word Alive got started, where we see the Lord is taking us, and the "four" ways that we can connect with what the Lord is doing here.

If you would like to attend this meeting please reserve your seat with Nancy Mitchell at Nmitchell@wordalive.org

We look forward to connecting with you!

When Your Hut's on Fire...

2009-09-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited
island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned
the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions. One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. He cried out, "God! How could you do this to me?"

Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.

The Moral of This Story:

It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.

Attention Fall Season Life Leaders

2009-08-28T06:10:00.006-05:00

Hello LIFE Leaders Fall 2009!!!

Greetings from Connection Central and the Pastoral Care team here at WAIO.

I just want to personally thank you for serving this season as a LIFE Group Leader. I am convinced that an anointing and empowering of the Holy Spirit is yours to accomplish the task. We will see people connect with God, people, and purpose during this fall season.

In addition to thanking you, I want to invite you to a LIFE LEADER LAUNCH LUNCHEON following our third service (around 1:15) in TAMA Hall on Sunday, September 20th.

We will have a chance to share a little, equip a little, eat a little (or a lot), and encourage a little, and inform a little as we start this great Fall Season of LIFE Groups.

God bless you again and I really hope to see you there.

We will be communicating regularly concerning the events and information relevant to you as LIFE Leaders on the Connection Central blog. The best way to get to the blog is via the website (www.wordalive.org). If you haven’t been to the website lately, you owe it to yourself to visit. It’s awesome.

Folks are contacting us through the web with requests for Group Involvement. They are finding you listed in available life groups for the fall season. Cool, huh?

Anyway, I hope to see you all Sunday the 20th. (Bring your spouse, even if they don’t help lead the LIFE group you host). Please RSVP via email or phone to santiago@wordalive.org or nmitchell@wordalive.org. Childcare will be available, but we need to know in advance.

Thanks again.

Bill Byrd

Anointing Service

2009-08-26T16:38:00.001-05:00

A fifth Sunday means one thing at Word Alive: Anointing Service!
Our Anointing Services are incredible encounters with God. We join together as a body to worship and pray, expecting God to show up and do great things. We always see people healed, delivered, and filled fresh with the Holy Spirit. This will be our first Anointing Service in Our Connection and we are excited! The service starts at 6:00 pm in the main sanctuary at the Coldwater Campus.

Parents, please note that childcare is only provided for children up to five years old for this service.

If you are unable to make the Anointing Service in person, the service will be available online though our live streaming. Go to www.WordAlive.org and click on Watch Services to access the live stream.

We'll see you Sunday night!

God Helps Our Weaknesses!

2009-08-24T13:59:00.003-05:00

God Helps Our Weaknesses!

What a great day we all enjoyed this past Sunday! Pastor Kent shared a message that has the power to revolutionize your life. God does not hate our weaknesses. He helps our weaknesses. Humility is the key to living in the grace of God.

Wednesday we will continue our corporate study of the Seven Faces of God’s Good Intention for You! Last week we discussed creativity and there were a great many responses during the week. God has created us with His creativity woven into our very being. This week we will look at the faces of kindness and love. I am finding that Kindness is very closely linked to idea of weakness as Kent shared this week.

Wednesday corporate prayer also resumed this week. Thank you to the 200 folks who came out at 6:00 pm to join in concentrated prayer. We prayed for our school systems, both public and private and called on the gifts of the teacher to shine this year.

Wednesday we will pray along these lines:

From the 7 Mountain Strategy – the mountain of Media

From the 7 Redemptive Gifts – the Exhorter Gift

From The 7 Faces of Intention – LOVE

From the Seven Spirits of God - The Spirit of the Lord

The Fall Season 2009 Life Group Bulletin is available. Thank you! to the over 50 LIFE group leaders who have given themselves to this season of ministry. I bless you in advance for your willingness to serve and I pray you enjoy rich fulfillment in your group this season.

Great Service Is A Choice

2009-08-21T06:22:00.002-05:00

Hey Word Alive Family! Thanks for a great prayer meeting last night. I really believe we released power to the school systems, teachers, students, and parents last night.

Thanks to those who shared our first Wednesday night bible study. We talked on the Seven Faces of God’s Good Intention for us and in doing so referenced Dr. Wayne Dyer.

I received this excerpt in an email and wanted to pass it along to you all. Creativity is your nature. You can work with the Spirit of God and connect to a great and fulfilling life. Check out this short article.

Excerpt from: The Simple Truths of Service,
by Ken Blanchard and Barbara Glanz

Great Service is a Choice

No one can make you serve customers well. That's because great service is a choice. Years ago, my friend, Harvey Mackay, told me a wonderful story about a cab driver that proved this point. He was waiting in line for a ride at the airport. When a cab pulled up, the first thing Harvey noticed was that the taxi was polished to a bright shine. Smartly dressed in a white shirt, black tie, and freshly pressed black slacks, the cab driver jumped out and rounded the car to open the back passenger door for Harvey. He handed my friend a laminated card and said:

"I'm Wally, your driver. While I'm loading your bags in the trunk, I'd like you to read my mission statement."

Taken aback, Harvey read the card. It said:

Wally's Mission Statement

To get my customers to their destination in the quickest, safest, and cheapest way possible in a friendly environment

This blew Harvey away. Especially when he noticed that the inside of the cab matched the outside. Spotlessly clean!

As he slid behind the wheel, Wally said, "Would you like a cup of coffee? I have a thermos of regular and one of decaf."

My friend said jokingly, "No, I'd prefer a soft drink."

Wally smiled and said, "No problem. I have a cooler up front with regular and Diet Coke, water and orange juice."

Almost stuttering, Harvey said, "I'll take a Diet Coke"

Handing him his drink, Wally said, "If you'd like something to read, I have The Wall Street Journal, Time, Sports Illustrated and USA Today."

As they were pulling away, Wally handed my friend another laminated card. "These are the stations I get and the music they play, if you'd like to listen to the radio."

As if that weren't enough, Wally told Harvey that he had the air conditioning on and asked if the temperature was comfortable for him. Then he advised Harvey of the best route to his destination for that time of the day. He also let him know that he'd be happy to chat and tell him about some of the sights, or, if Harvey preferred, to leave him with his own thoughts.

"Tell me, Wally," my amazed friend asked the driver, "have you always served customers like this?"

Wally smiled into the rear view mirror. "No, not always. In fact, it's only been in the last two years. My first five years driving, I spent most of my time complaining like all the rest of the cabbies do. Then I heard the personal growth guru, Wayne Dyer, on the radio one day. He had just written a book called You'll See It When You Believe It. Dyer said that if you get up in the morning expecting to have a bad day, you'll rarely disappoint yourself. He said, 'Stop complaining! Differentiate yourself from your competition. Don't be a duck. Be an eagle. Ducks quack and complain. Eagles soar above the crowd.'

"That hit me right between the eyes," said Wally. "Dyer was really talking about me. I was always quacking and complaining, so I decided to change my attitude and become an eagle. I looked around at the other cabs and their drivers. The cabs were dirty, the drivers were unfriendly, and the customers were unhappy. So I decided to make some changes. I put in a few at a time. When my customers responded well, I did more."

"I take it this has paid off for you," Harvey said.

"It sure had," Wally replied. "My first year as an eagle, I doubled my income from the previous year. This year I'll probably quadruple it. You were lucky to get me today. I don't sit at cabstands anymore. My customers call me for appointments on my cell phone or leave a message on my answering machine. If I can't pick them up myself, I get a reliable cabbie friend to do it and I take a piece of the action."

Wally was phenomenal. He was running a limo service out of a Yellow Cab. I've probably told that story to more than fifty cab drivers over the years, and only two took the idea and ran with it. Whenever I go to their cities, I give them a call. The rest of the drivers quacked like ducks and told me all the reasons they couldn't do any of what I was suggesting.

Johnny the Bagger and Wally the Cab Driver made a different choice. They decided to stop quacking like ducks and start soaring like eagles. How about you?

Corporate Prayer and The Way Resume

2009-08-19T13:15:00.001-05:00

Wednesday Night Corporate Prayer and The WAY starts back this Wednesday!

Wednesday Night Corporate Prayer is a time when we come together as a body to worship and pray. It's part of our Fast Food program--we join in prayer, fast a meal, and then give the money we would have spent on the meal to feed hungry people right here in our community and all over the world. Wednesday Night Prayer is streamed live at WordAlive.org so you can also watch from home. The service starts at 6:00 p.m.

After Prayer, we are starting a Bible Study in the Main Sanctuary at 7:00 p.m. Be sure to stick around and join in as we dig deeper into the Word.

In TamaHall, The WAY will be fired up and ready for the Fall season. They have awesome services and totally rock out with student-led worship. If you're a junior high or high school student and you haven't checked out the WAY, you need to go see what it's all about! The WAY starts at 6:00 p.m.

At WAIO Gadsden, Prayer also begins at 6:00 p.m. with large-group Bible Study following at 7:00. Youth in Gadsden begins at 7:00 p.m.

See you Wednesday night!

What I've Learned

2009-08-10T20:12:00.002-05:00

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things: a rainy day, the elderly, animals, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I've learned that, regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life

I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life.."

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.
You need to be able to throw something back

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you but, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.

I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

Parenting Insight You Can Use Now

2009-08-10T19:45:00.001-05:00

One of the roadblocks to harmony in family life is when siblings act foolishly and end up hurting or offending each other. Foolishness may be demonstrated by teasing and playing around beyond what's appropriate or wanted. Usually one person wants to stop before the other. Angry words and tears often bring an end to what started out as fun. Incorporating a "Stop Rule" in your family will help children, and parents for that matter, know when to quit.

The Stop Rule is simply this: When a child wants to be done with a teasing or tickling game, that child just says, "Stop" and the other child must stop the game. Even parents need to stop when a child doesn't want to be teased anymore. In fact, a good way to teach this rule is for a parent to tickle a child and stop immediately when the child says “Stop.”

Of course, to make this work, you as a parent need to be available to enforce the rule. When you hear one child say, "Stop," watch and see if you are needed to step in to enforce the rule.

The Stop Rule teaches children the value of their words. When someone is relentlessly teasing, your child will know that his or her personal boundaries are being violated and want to seek help. This is a helpful rule for creating boundaries in relationships between siblings or playmates and it teaches children adult solutions for solving their childhood problems.

For more practical ideas on helping siblings deal with foolishness, consider the book, Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes, In You and Your Kids by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

I Trust God, But I'm Wiped Out

2009-08-06T20:39:00.002-05:00

by Rick Warren

“I believed, so I said, ‘I am completely ruined!’” (Psalm 116:10 NCV).

Did you know that admitting your hopelessness to God can be a statement of faith? Trusting God yet feeling despair at the same time, David wrote, “I believed, so I said, ‘I am completely ruined!’” (Psalm 116:10 NCV).

This sounds like a contradiction: I trust God, but I’m wiped out! David’s frankness actually reveals deep faith: First, he believed in God. Second, he believed God would listen to his prayer. Third, he believed God would let him say what he felt and still love him.

Focus on who God is—his unchanging nature. Regardless of circumstances and how you feel, hang on to God’s unchanging character. Remind yourself what you know to be eternally true about God: He is good, He loves you, He is with you, He knows what you’re going through, He cares, and He has a good plan for your life. Raymond Edman said, “Never doubt in the dark what God told you in the light.”

When Job’s life fell apart, and God was silent, Job still found reasons to praise God:

• He is good and loving (Job 10:12).
• He is all-powerful (Job 42:2; 37:5, 23).
• He notices every detail of my life (Job 23:10; 31:4).
• He is in control (Job 34:13).
• He has a plan for my life (Job 23:14).
• He will save me (Job 19:25).

Trust God to keep His promises. During times of spiritual dryness you must patiently rely on the promises of God, not your emotions, and realize that He is taking you to a deeper level of maturity. A friendship based on emotion is shallow indeed.

So don’t be troubled by trouble. Circumstances cannot change the character of God. God’s grace is still in full force; He is still for you, even when you don’t feel it. In the absence of confirming circumstances, Job held on to God’s Word. He said, “I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread” (Job 23:12 NIV).

This trust in God’s Word caused Job to remain faithful even though nothing made sense. His faith was strong in the midst of pain: “God may kill me, but still I will trust Him” (Job 13:15 CEV).

You can learn more about how to expand your faith by reading The Purpose Driven Life.

LIFE Group Leaders!

2009-08-06T16:06:00.001-05:00

CALLING ALL LIFE GROUP LEADERS!

Have you wanted to see a ministry or small group expression at Word Alive and wondered how to make it happen? This is your chance.

Fall Season of LIFE Groups begins in six weeks. If you would like to lead a LIFE Group focusing on sports, hobbies, bible studies, fellowship, prayer, service or… just use the comment section of your Connection Card to let us know and we will contact you with the details to help make it happen.

Special Services This Weekend...

2009-08-05T18:50:00.000-05:00

Word Alive is welcoming back Sadhu Sundar and Neville Johnson!

Sadhu Sundar from India and Neville Johnson of Australia are two powerful prophetic voices who have spoken great things over our church. This weekend they're returning for a time of powerful impartation.

We're anticipating a weekend of exciting new revelation as they join us in our new Connection facility.

Service Schedule:
Saturday 6:00 pm: Sadhu Sundar
Sunday 9:00 am & 11:15 am: Neville Johnson
Sunday 6:00 pm: Sadhu Sundar

All services will be available online through our live streaming, so if you can't make any of the services you can log on and watch from home.

It's going to be a great weekend! We look forward to seeing you here!

Don't Fear Deeper Friendships

2009-07-09T20:26:00.003-05:00

by Rick Warren

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7 NIV).

When we're full of fear and anxiety, we don't get close to each other. We back off from each other. We're afraid of being rejected, manipulated, vulnerable, hurt, or used. All of these fears cause us to disconnect in life.

This fear is as old as humanity. When Adam and Eve sinned, and God came looking for them, Adam said, "I was afraid . . . so I hid" (Genesis 3:10 NIV). People have been doing that ever since. We're afraid, so we hide. We hide our true selves.

We don't let people know what we're really like. We don't let them see the inside of us. Why? Because if we let people know what we're like and they don't like it, we're up a creek without a paddle. Tough luck. Why am I afraid to tell you who I am? Because if I tell you who I am, and you don't like me, I'm in for it. I have no alternative. So we wear masks and we pretend.

Fear does three terrible things to relationships:

1. Fear makes us defensive. We're afraid to reveal ourselves. We defend ourselves. When people point out our weaknesses, we retaliate and defend ourselves.

2. Fear keeps us distant. We don't let people get close to us. We want to withdraw, pull back. We want to hide our emotions. We don't want to be open and honest. We become defensive and distant.

3. Fear makes us demanding. Whenever we're insecure, and the more insecure we are, the more we try to control. So we try to have the last word in a relationship. We try to dominate, control. It's always a symptom of fear and insecurity.

Where do you get the confidence, the courage, to take the first step in connecting with someone, to go into a deeper intimacy? Where do you get that courage?

You get it from God's Spirit in your life. Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For the Holy Spirit, God's gift, does not want you to be afraid of people but to be wise and strong (courageous), and to love them and enjoy being with them" (LB).

How do you know when you're filled with God's Spirit? You're more courageous in your relationships. You love people. You enjoy being with them. You're not afraid of them because God's Spirit is in your life. The Bible says "God is love," and "Love casts out all fear." The more of God you have in your life, the less of fear you're going to have in your life.

So the starting point in connecting with anybody is to pause, pray, and say, "God, give me the courage to take the first step." You need to do that now with a person you want to connect with.

Missed out on one of the Daily Devotionals? View the online archives.
Did someone forward this Daily Devotional to you? Get your own free subscription to The Purpose Driven Connection Daily Devotional, your daily inspiration via email.

The Purpose Driven Connection Daily Devotional newsletter is produced by PurposeDriven.com. You can reach us by mail at Purpose Driven Connection, PO Box 8108, Red Oak, IA 51591-1108.

© 2009. The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. Read our Privacy Policy.

JULY IS SABBATH MONTH

2009-06-29T10:49:00.001-05:00

At Word Alive it has become customary to take the seventh or "Sabbath" month of the year to rest, refresh, and renew. All services during the month of July will be suspended. Services will resume Sunday, August 2.

In our first year the Lord spoke to Kent about taking the faith step of a Sabbath month. We encouraged people to visit other churches, have devotions with the family, take vacation time, and learn to maintain our relationship with the Lord outside church "services". We found that this God-idea worked to break possessive and controlling spirits prevalent in the religious community and reinforced our commitment to resist having church services for the sake of "offerings".

We have found the Lord faithful to provide, sustain, and strengthen the church even while "services" are suspended. We anticipate this year to be like each year before. We will come back refreshed, increased, and ready to run the race of faith. And don't forget: when you come back, you will enter this new season through the glass doors of Our Connection.

Enjoy your Sabbath celebration!

Small Group Leader Meeting

2009-06-23T17:56:00.000-05:00

Meeting with Small Group Leader's Meeting this evening. We will be touring The Connection. I'll be unloading pictures to Twitter during the tour.

The Strangest Secret

2009-06-15T20:56:00.002-05:00

The following is an excerpt from The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale.

George Bernard Shaw said, "People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, they make them."

Well, it's pretty apparent, isn't it? And every person who discovered this believed (for a while) that he was the first one to work it out. We become what we think about.

Conversely, the person who has no goal, who doesn't know where he's going, and whose thoughts must therefore be thoughts of confusion, anxiety and worry - his life becomes one of frustration, fear, anxiety and worry. And if he thinks about nothing... he becomes nothing.

How does it work? Why do we become what we think about? Well, I'll tell you how it works, as far as we know. To do this, I want to tell you about a situation that parallels the human mind.

Suppose a farmer has some land, and it's good, fertile land. The land gives the farmer a choice; he may plant in that land whatever he chooses. The land doesn't care. It's up to the farmer to make the decision.

We're comparing the human mind with the land because the mind, like the land, doesn't care what you plant in it. It will return what you plant, but it doesn't care what you plant.

Now, let's say that the farmer has two seeds in his hand- one is a seed of corn, the other is nightshade, a deadly poison. He digs two little holes in the earth and he plants both seeds-one corn, the other nightshade. He covers up the holes, waters and takes care of the land...and what will happen? Invariably, the land will return what was planted.

As it's written in the Bible, "As ye sow, so shall ye reap."

Remember the land doesn't care. It will return poison in just as wonderful abundance as it will corn. So up come the two plants - one corn, one poison.

The human mind is far more fertile, far more incredible and mysterious than the land, but it works the same way. It doesn't care what we plant...success...or failure. A concrete, worthwhile goal...or confusion, misunderstanding, fear, anxiety and so on. But what we plant it must return to us.

You see, the human mind is the last great unexplored continent on earth. It contains riches beyond our wildest dreams. It will return anything we want to plant.

Alvin Slaughter @ WAIO

2009-06-06T21:12:00.000-05:00

Alvin Slaughter will be at Word Alive in Oxford at the 9AM and 11:15AM and then at 6PM at Word Alive in Gadsden. See www.waio.org for more info.

A Crash Course on Customer Service

2009-06-05T16:46:00.002-05:00

One of my all-time favorite quotes is...."Customer service is not a department, it's an attitude."

How true it is! As much as we try to complicate what great service is...it's really pretty simple: It is giving more than the customer expects...consistently. You notice I said simple, not easy. There is a big difference.

Enjoy the Chapter I titled: "A Crash Course on Customer Service."

Excerpt from
Customer Love,
by Mac Anderson

The 10 phrases from my friends at Walk the Talk are an illuminating reminder of how uncomplicated it is to make customers feel loved. People don't care how much you know, (or what you sell, or what type of service you provide) until they know how much you care!

The 10 most important words:
"I apologize for our mistake. Let me make it right."

When something goes wrong, most people merely want to be heard and acknowledged. So listen, apologize, then ask what you can do to make it right.

The 9 most important words:
"Thank you for your business. Please come back again."

Repeat customers cost less than new customers and are often more loyal.

The 8 most important words:
"I'm not sure, but I will find out."

It's ok if you don't know the answer; it's not ok to make the customer keep searching for it. That's your job.

The 7 most important words:
"What else can I do for you?"

Be prepared to go the extra mile, there is less competition there.

The 6 most important words:
"What is most convenient for you?"

Your customers will be pleasantly surprised when you ask what's convenient for them.

The 5 most important words:
"How may I serve you?"

This question reinforces your role in the relationship. Play that role the best you can.

The 4 most important words:
"How did we do?"

Feedback is critical! Your customers have a unique perspective and they appreciate being asked.

The 3 most important words:
"Glad you're here!"

Customers who feel welcome spend more time, more money and are more likely to return.

The 2 most important words:
"Thank you."

Basic manners... but how often do you get thanked when you're the customer?

The MOST important word:
"Yes."

Become a yes person.

Live with Passion,

Mac Anderson
Founder, Simple Truths

MAC ANDERSON is the founder of Simple Truths and Successories, Inc., the leader in designing and marketing products for motivation and recognition. These companies, however, are not the first success stories for Mac. He was also the founder and CEO of McCord Travel, the largest travel company in the Midwest, and part owner/VP of sales and marketing for Orval Kent Food Company, the country's largest manufacturer of prepared salads.
His accomplishments in these three unrelated industries provide some insight into his passion and leadership skills. He also brings the same passion to his speaking where he speaks to many corporate audiences on a variety of topics, including leadership, motivation and team building.
Mac has authored or co-authored twelve books, which have sold more than 3 million copies. They include: 212°...The Extra Degree, Change is Good...You Go First, You Can't Send a Duck to Eagle School, The Power of Attitude, The Essence of Leadership, The Nature of Success, The Dash, Charging the Human Battery, Finding Joy, Customer Love, Motivational Quotes and Learning to Dance in the Rain.
For more information about Mac, visit www.simpletruths.com.
Simple Truths, LLC., 1952 McDowell Road, Ste. 205, Naperville, IL 60563, USA
Phone: 800-900-3427 / 630-946-1460
Copyright 2008, Simple Truths, LLC. All rights reserved.

What It Takes For God To Use You

2009-05-31T05:58:00.002-05:00

by Rick Warren

"God wants to do something incredible through you. But he’s going to start by dealing with
your past." - Rick Warren

God uses all kinds of vessels – big ones, little ones, ornate ones, plain ones, expensive ones, and ordinary ones. He uses all kinds of personalities, backgrounds, and experiences. But there is one kind of vessel God will not use. He will not use a dirty vessel. Pastor, if you’re going to be used by God, you’re going to have to do a little clean-up work first.

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 2:21 (NLT), “If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.”

More than anything, pastor, I know you want to be used by God. It isn’t the best preachers who get used by God. It isn’t the best leaders. It isn’t the most spiritual pastors. God uses those leaders who regularly get right with him.

Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do great wonders among you” (Joshua 3:5 NLT). If you want God to do something great in your future, you’ve got to start by settling the accounts of the past.

It doesn’t mean you have to be perfect – because no one is. But it does mean you need to be quick to confess and receive forgiveness when needed. Augustine said, “The confession of bad works is the beginning of good works.” God wants to do something incredible through you. But he’s going to start by dealing with your past. You’ve got to confess your sin to him.

I remember one of the first times in my life when a need for confession really blocked what God wanted to do through my ministry.

My walk with God had gotten dull. There was no joy. There was no thrill to it. It was just kind of ho-hum. When I prayed, I felt like my prayers just bounced across the ceiling. I didn’t feel close to God. I didn’t feel close to anybody.

Finally, I knew that I had to do something. I was 17 or 18 years old, and I was still living at home. It was about ten o’clock at night. Everybody had gone to bed. I got out a yellow pad and said, “OK God, let’s do some business here. I need to do a little spring cleaning. I need to know anything that’s between you and me. I’m going to make a sin list of everything you tell me.”

Within a few seconds, I just started thinking of things that I knew were wrong in my life. Times I’d been jealous. Lies I’d told. Times I’d been impatient. I filled up three pages with my sin. Knowing 1 John 1:9, I knew that God would be faithful and just to forgive all of the sins I’d committed. I thought I’d just burn the paper once I was finished. I certainly didn’t want anyone to read it! But there were three sins that related to other people. I knew I had to make restitution to those people.

I began a battle in my mind with God that night. I did not want to make restitution. I told God I’d do anything to not have to confront those people. It would be humbling and embarrassing. But God made it clear that this was going to be a test of my integrity.

The next day, a Saturday, I did everything but make restitution for those sins. I did my homework. I cleaned my room. I washed both my parents’ cars. I cleaned up the patio. I did errands for my mom. I did everything but what God really wanted me to do.

That night I was supposed to be a guest speaker at a youth rally about 30 minutes from my house. I shouldn’t have spoken at that rally. I was out of fellowship with God and with other people. God’s presence and his power weren’t there. My words were just bouncing off the walls.

As I was driving back home that night, I got right with God. I told him I was sorry and was willing to make things right. When I got home, my parents and little sister were watching television. I turned off the TV and, in tears, told my family everything about those three sins I needed to make restitution for. I asked them to pray that I would have the strength to make those things right. And I did. As I was honest with God and got things right with him, I felt the power of God fall on my life as I never had before. I could feel the blessing of God flowing into my life.

Pastor, I want you to have that. You have no idea how much God wants to use your life. But you have to come clean first. Here are six steps that’ll put you on the path to a clear conscious – and a ministry that God will bless.

Review every area of your life. Get away with a Bible, a piece of paper, and a pen, and ask God to let you know what’s coming between you and him. Don’t rush it. Take your time and write it all down. Nobody will see this. It’s between you and God.

Repent of every sin. Take responsibility for every sin you’ve written down. Don’t rationalize them. Don’t minimize them. Tell God what you did was a sin and you won’t do it anymore. Real repentance isn’t apologizing for your sin. It’s admitting it, turning away from it, and accepting God’s grace for it.

Make restitution. As you make your list, notice the sins that have impacted other people. Maybe you’ve hurt someone or mistreated him. If the person is still alive, make it right – as soon as possible. Don’t just apologize either. If you’ve stolen from the person, give back what you’ve taken. If you’ve cheated somebody, repay him.

Receive God’s forgiveness. Now you’re ready to receive God’s forgiveness. The Bible says you can go boldly to the throne of God and receive grace and mercy. God won’t reject you or scold you. He’ll give you his grace. That’s a promise from his Word.

Reveal your faults to a friend. You need to come clean with someone. If you don’t come clean with another person, you’ll still be forgiven. But coming clean to another person is part of the process God uses to heal us emotionally. Find another person that you trust (maybe another pastor) and let him know what you’ve done.

Repeat these steps regularly. Confession is like a bath. If you don’t take one regularly, you’ll start to stink. Make confession a regular habit in your life. Pastor, God wants to bless your life and your ministry. Will you get right with him – today?

Article by Rick Warren reprinted from Rick Warren's Minstry Toolbox. Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times best seller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers. Copyright © 2009 Rick Warren

Anointing Service This Sunday Night

2009-05-30T10:42:00.000-05:00

This Sunday, May 31, we will host an anointing service at our Coldwater Campus starting at 6:00 pm. This meeting includes a short time of worship followed by a service that emphasizes healing, deliverance, and personal ministry. Come expecting to see a move of the Spirit that will change lives! See you there!

Upcoming Events in June

2009-05-27T13:46:00.001-05:00

There are two events coming up in June that are specifically designed to help get more "connected".
First, if you have not attended a Life Track Reception mark your calendar for June 14. This event is your beginning point for getting connected and becoming involved in ministry at Word Alive.
Next, Encounter Weekend is June 19 -20. This event is planned on purpose as a "God encounter" that will help launch you on your way toward your purpose and destiny.
To sign up for either or both events you can contact Nancy Mitchell at 256-831-5280 ext. 134 or email Nancy at nmitchell@wordalive.org

Life Track

2009-05-19T17:40:00.001-05:00

We had a great time Sunday night helping people get "connected" in ministry here at Word Alive. We were treated to hearing Charles Martin from Integrity's Voice Church minister as he played the saxophone. Check out his church's website for more information. http://www.integritysvoicechurch.com

New Classes Begin This Wednesday

2009-05-18T20:26:00.000-05:00

New Equipping The Believer ClassesWednesday Night Bible Studies start fresh this week! Check out these exciting offerings!

DREAM INTERPRETATION and PROPHETIC MINISTRY: Beginning this Wednesday, Ralph & Sonja Cook will begin to focus on hearing God and moving into the prophetic ministry. Prophecy is a gift of the Holy Spirit given to edify, exhort, and comfort. Join us and begin to activate this vital and needed gift. This seminar will be held upstairs in Kidz Alive in the large central meeting room to accommodate the crowd which will be attending.

DELIVERANCE and INNER HEALING: Our new Principal at Word Alive Academy is Jeff Phillips. He comes with a very strong background in the ministry of deliverance and inner healing. Jeff will be sharing this knowledge and gift with those who attend his seminar. Come enjoy the light of the Holy Spirit and receive your own measure of inner healing. The seminar will be held in the Sanctuary after corporate prayer.

LET'S TALK POLITICAL STUFF: Bill Byrd will host a discussion group to begin a discussion along the lines of political activism and involvement. This is a great opportunity to begin to explore a new model of activism founded on present truth being revealed to the church. Join Bill upstairs in Kidz Alive at 7:00 P.M. each Wednesday for the next 4 weeks.

Twitter

2009-05-16T21:56:00.003-05:00

You can now follow the Connection Central Blog on Twitter. Just click on the link in the column on the right hand side of this page.

The "Living" Bible

2009-05-13T14:01:00.002-05:00

Now this is the Living Bible:

His name is Jimmy. He has wild hair, wears a T-shirt with holes in it,
jeans, and no shoes...this was literally his wardrobe for his entire
four years of college.

He is brilliant. Kind of profound and very, very bright. He became a
Christian while attending college.

Across the street from the campus is a well-dressed, very conservative
church. They want to develop a ministry to the students but are not sure
how to go about it.

One day Jimmy decides to go there. He walks in with no shoes, jeans, his
T-shirt, and wild hair. The service has already started and so Jimmy
starts down the aisle looking for a seat.

The church is completely packed and he can't find a seat. By now, people
are really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one says anything.

Jimmy gets closer and closer and closer to the pulpit, and when he
realizes there are no seats, he just squats down right on the carpet.

By now the people are really uptight, and the tension in the air is
thick.

About this time, the minister realizes that from way at the back of the
church, a deacon is slowly making his way toward Jimmy.

Now the deacon is in his eighties, has silver-gray hair, and a
three-piece suit, a godly man, very elegant, very dignified, very
courtly. He walks with a cane and, as he starts walking toward this boy,
everyone is saying to themselves that you can't blame him for what he's
going to do.

How can you expect a man of his age and of his background to understand
some college kid on the floor?

It takes a long time for the man to reach the boy.

The church is utterly silent except for the clicking of the man's cane.
All eyes are focused on him. You can't even hear anyone breathing. The
minister can't even preach the sermon until the deacon does what he has
to do.

And now they see this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great
difficulty, he lowers himself and sits down next to Jimmy and worships
with him so he won't be alone.

Everyone chokes up with emotion.
When the minister gains control, he says, 'What I'm about to preach, you
will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget.'

'Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will
ever read!'

I asked the Lord to bless you
As I prayed for you today.
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way.
His love is always with you,
His promises are true,
And when we give Him all our cares,
You know He will see us through.

God is like...

2009-05-13T13:57:00.001-05:00

God is like BAYER ASPIRIN -He works miracles.

God is like FORD -He's got a better idea..

God is like COKE -He's the real thing.

God is like HALLMARK CARDS -He cares enough to send His very best.

God is like TIDE - He gets the stains out that others leave behind.

God is like GENERAL ELECTRIC -He brings good things to life.

God is like SEARS - He has everything.

God is like ALKA-SELTZER - Try Him, you'll like Him

God is like SCOTCH TAPE - You can't see Him, but you know He's there.

God is like DELTA -He's ready when you are.

God is like ALLSTATE - You're in good hands with Him.

God is like VO-5 Hair Spray -He holds through all kinds of weather.

God is like DIAL SOAP - Aren't you glad you have Him? Don't you wish everybody did?

God is like the U.S. POSTAL SERVICE - Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His appointed rounds.

God is like CHEVROLET - the heart beat of America

God is like MAXWELL HOUSE - Good to the very last drop

God is like BOUNTY - He is the quicker picker upper, can handle the tough jobs, and He won't fall apart on you.

Life Track Reception

2009-05-12T20:02:00.001-05:00

If you're new to Word Alive or you just want to find out how to get into the "flow" here at Word Alive, join us this Sunday evening in the T.A.M.A. Hall for our Life Track Reception. We will begin at 6PM with a light meal. If you plan to attend contact Santiago Hechart at (256)831-5280 ext. 114 or santiago@wordalive.org

For childcare contact Heather Varvell at Ext. 118
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry Storm

Group Icebreaker Suggestion

2009-05-01T06:01:00.000-05:00

Do This And Add Something

Get everyone in a circle. One person starts off by performing an action (e.g. scratching his head). The person on his right must then repeat it and add another action. The game goes on with each having to repeat all the previous actions in order, then adding one. If a player misses an action or gets fouled up, he is out. You can go as many rounds as you want.

Invest Yourself

2009-05-01T05:51:00.001-05:00

by Chip Lutz

When life is complete, what is the legacy you want to leave behind? One of policy, plans, procedures and rules? Or, do you want to leave a legacy that represents your true self? If your answer is the latter, then read on. At home, work, or play - if you want to leave a legacy that is of true value and that continues to be shared, then the answer is to tithe with others. I am not talking about giving 10% more than what you are giving right now. I am referring to sharing the 10% of yourself that makes you special. When we share our inner 10% with others, we pass that piece of ourselves on and can help others grow, develop, or move past a difficult time in their life. All the success I have ever enjoyed has been the result of another’s tithe in me - all ordinary people who became extraordinary because they took the time to invest the 10% that was personal, insightful, and sometimes painful (to share and to hear). Step up and start tithing today by being mindful of these principles.

Reflect
Having a PhD, tons of money, or a title is great, but the only requirement for you to tithe is having a willing spirit and a reflective mind. To be in that reflective state-of-mind when encountering issues, ask yourself: How can I help? What part of “me” can be of benefit to this person? Your tithe could come in the form of a personal story, an experience, a triumph, or even a tribulation. Regardless of its origin, it matters because it is a part of you. With a tithe, sometimes the smallest things have the largest impact. Always remember that each of us is special and each has something to tithe.

Remove Distractions
We live in a busy world - cell phones, WiFi, and the continual bombardment of information can leave people so stressed they feel like they are diagonally parked in a parallel universe! To tithe, we need to take the time to connect on a human level - to get away from the distractions and meet others with warm eyes and an open heart. Only 7% of the words we use are important. The other 93% of a conversation comes from our body language, facial expressions, and how active we are in our ability to listen. Tithing can be as simple as turning off the cell phone, lending an ear, and just “being there.”

Risk
Is there an element of risk in tithing? The answer is yes. There is the risk of your tithe being unwanted. There is the risk of your tithe falling on “deaf” ears. There may also be the risk of being hurt. The hardest part of tithing is making that first investment. No great thing was ever accomplished without battling with that element of risk. In life, there are people that do and people that wish they had done. Wouldn’t you rather step out, take the risk of rejection and/or hurt and be of benefit to another than to have “wished” you had done something after the fact? I think the answer is clear - we should step up, step out, invest ourselves and take the risk.

Tithing is personal. It is a personal investment of your best 10% in others that goes beyond the boundaries of mentorship and coaching. It’s about a covenant that we build with others in an attempt to make meaning of our experiences and provide value to others as we run the race of life. The tithe that we share lives on in those we invest in and, chances are, it will become part of their tithe in others. It’s not a lot, it’s only 10% - but that small investment will give returns that are much greater than we could ever expect. Don’t hesitate, now is the time to reach out, connect, inspire, and make your investment in others through tithing. Now is also the time to thank those who have shared their tithes with you!

Chip Lutz is a professional speaker, trainer, and retired Navy Officer with 22 years leadership experience. He served as Commanding Officer of two separate Navy Facilities and was the Director of Security for Naval District Washington, DC, during September 11th, 2001.

The Power of Gratitude

2009-04-24T06:02:00.003-05:00

The date was July 16, 2008. It was late in the afternoon and I was sitting in my hotel room in Louisville, Kentucky. I was scheduled to speak that evening for the Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA). I was a little "down in the dumps." I hadn't gotten to exercise lately because of my traveling schedule and recently I'd experienced some mild bouts of vertigo (that inner ear condition that can cause the room to start spinning.) You got it...speaking and "spinning" are not good partners!

My keynote presentation was scheduled for 7:00 PM, but I had been invited to show up at 6:00 to see a performance they said I'd enjoy. Little did I know that I was about to see something I would never forget.

They introduced the young musician. Welcome...Mr. Patrick Henry Hughes. He was rolled onto the stage in his wheelchair, and began to play the piano. His fingers danced across the keys as he made beautiful music.

He then began to sing as he played, and it was even more beautiful. For some reason, however, I knew that I was seeing something special. There was this aura about him that I really can't explain and the smile...his smile was magic!

About ten minutes into Patrick's performance, someone came on the stage and said..."I'd like to share a 7-minute video titled, The Patrick Henry Hughes story." And the lights went dim.

Patrick Henry Hughes was born with no eyes, and a tightening of the joints which left him crippled for life. However, as a child, he was fitted with artificial eyes and placed in a wheelchair. Before his first birthday, he discovered the piano. His mom said, "I could hit any note on the piano, and within one or two tries, he'd get it." By his second birthday, he was playing requests (You Are My Sunshine, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star). His father was ecstatic. "We might not play baseball, but we can play music together."

Today, Patrick is a junior at the University of Louisville. His father attends classes with him and he's made nearly all A's, with the exception of 3 B's He's also a part of the 214 member marching band. You read it right...the marching band! He's a blind, wheelchair-bound trumpet player; and he and his father do it together. They attend all the band practices and the half-time performance in front of thousands. His father rolls and rotates his son around the field to the cheers of Patrick's fans. In order to attend Patrick's classes and every band practice, his father works the graveyard shift at UPS. Patrick said..."My dad's my hero."

But even more than his unbelievable musical talent, it was Patrick's "attitude of gratitude" that touched my soul. On stage, between songs, he would talk to the audience about his life and about how blessed he was. He said, "God made me blind and unable to walk. BIG DEAL! He gave me the ability...the musical gifts I have...the great opportunity to meet new people."

When his performance was over, Patrick and his father were on the stage together. The crowd rose to their feet and cheered for over five minutes. It gave me giant goose bumps!

My life was ready to meet Patrick Henry Hughes. I needed a hero, and I found one for the ages. If I live to be a hundred, I'll never forget that night, that smile, that music, but most importantly, that wonderful "attitude of gratitude."

I returned to Chicago and shared Patrick's story with my wife, my friends, and our team at Simple Truths. About two weeks later, I received a letter from a friend. He said, "Mac, I don't know who said it, but I think you'll love this quote."

"Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass...
it's about learning to dance in the rain!"

I thought...that's it! We all face adversity in our life. However, it's not the adversity, but how we react to it that will determine the joy and happiness in our life. During tough times, do we spend too much time feeling sorry for ourselves, or, can we, with gratitude...learn how to dance in the rain?

It almost sounds too simple to feel important, but one word...gratitude, can change your attitude, thus, your life, forever. Sarah Breathnack said it best...

"When we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that's present....we experience heaven on earth."

This is the introduction to the book, Learning to Dance in the Rain...The Power of Gratitude by Mac Anderson and BJ Gallagher.
Click here to learn more about Learning to Dance in the Rain.

This Week's Suggested Icebreaker

2009-04-15T06:27:00.002-05:00

Trying to Get Home

Participants stand behind their chair. Every time a player can answer 'yes' to a statement he/she may move to the chair on their left. If they must answer 'no', they stay where they are. (This is fun because people sometimes must stand 3 or 4 in a line before some can move on.) Try statements like these: You have granddaughters. You have tomatoes in your garden. You are retired. You have a blue vehicle. You were born in another state. The first person back to their chair wins.

5 Reasons Why Dreams Don't Take Flight

2009-04-09T15:55:00.003-05:00

by Dr. John C. Maxwell

Most of us never see our dreams come true. Instead of soaring through the clouds, our dreams languish like a broken-down airplane confined to its hangar. Through life, I have come to identify five common reasons why dreams don't take flight.

#1 We Have Been Discouraged from Dreaming by Others

We have to pilot our own dreams; we cannot entrust them to anyone else. People who aren't following their own dreams resent us pursuing ours. Such people feel inadequate when we succeed, so they try to drag us down.

If we listen to external voices, then we allow our dreams to be hijacked. At some point, other people will place limitations on us by doubting our abilities. When surrounded by the turbulence of criticism, we have to grasp the controls tightly to keep from being knocked off course.

#2 We Are Hindered by Past Disappointments and Hurts

In the movie Top Gun, Tom Cruise plays Maverick, a young, talented, and cocky aviator who dreams of being the premier pilot in the U.S. navy. In the film's opening scenes, Maverick showcases his flying ability but also displays a knack for pushing the envelope with regards to safety. Midway through the movie, Maverick's characteristic aggression spells disaster. His plane crashes, killing his best friend and co-pilot.

Although cleared of wrongdoing, the painful memory of the accident haunts Maverick. He quits taking risks and loses his edge. Struggling to regain his poise, he considers giving up on his dream. Although the incident nearly wrecks Maverick's career, he eventually reaches within to find the strength to return to the sky.

Like Maverick, many of us live with the memory of failure embedded in our psyche. Perhaps a business we started went broke, or we were fired from a position of leadership. Disappointment is the gap that exists between expectation and reality, and all of us have encountered that gap. Failure is a necessary and natural part of life, but if we're going to attain our dreams, then, like Maverick, we have to summon the courage deal with past hurts.

#3 We Fall into the Habit of Settling for Average

Average is the norm for a reason. Being exceptional demands extra effort, sustained inspiration, and uncommon discipline. When we attempt to give flight to our dreams, we have to overcome the weight of opposition. Like gravity, life's circumstances constantly pull on our dreams, tugging us down to mediocrity.

Most of us don't pay the price to overcome the opposition to our dreams. We may start out inspired, but through time we fatigue. Although never intending to abandon our dreams, we begin to make concessions here and there. Through time, our lives become mundane, and our dreams slip away.

#4 We Lack the Confidence Needed to Pursue Our Dreams

Dreams are fragile. They will be buffeted by assaults from all sides. As such, they must be supplied with the extra strength of self-confidence.

In Amelia Earhart's day, women were not supposed fly airplanes. If she had lacked self-assurance, she never would have even attempted to be a pilot. Instead, Earhart confidently chased after her dream, and she was rewarded with both fulfillment and fame.

#5 We Lack the Imagination to Dream

For thousands of years, mankind traveled along the ground: by foot, by horse-and-buggy, by locomotive, and eventually by automobile. Thanks to the dreams of Orville and Wilbur Wright, we now hop across oceans in a matter of hours. The imaginative brothers overcame ridicule and doubt to pioneer human flight, and the world has never been the same.

Many of us play small because we do not allow ourselves to dream. We trap ourselves in reality and never dare to go beyond what we can see with our eyes. Imagination lifts us beyond average by giving us a vision of life that surpasses what we are experiencing currently. Dreams infuse our spirit with energy and spur us on to greatness.

John C. Maxwell is an internationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author who has sold over 16 million books. His organizations have trained more than 2 million leaders worldwide. Dr. Maxwell is the founder of EQUIP and INJOY Stewardship Services. Every year he speaks to Fortune 500 companies, international government leaders, and audiences as diverse as the United States Military Academy at West Point, the National Football League, and ambassadors at the United Nations. A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Business Week best-selling author, Maxwell was named the World's Top Leadership Guru by Leadershipgurus.net. He was also one of only 25 authors and artists named to Amazon.com's 10th Anniversary Hall of Fame. Three of his books, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, Developing the Leader Within You, and The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader have each sold over a million copies.Printed from the GiANT Impact website (www.giantimpact.com).

Passover Proclamations - 2009

2009-04-09T15:42:00.005-05:00

Delivered from the Power of Death, Sin, and Slavery into Life, Righteousness, and Freedom

We proclaim the Passover blessing! The blood of the Lamb is shed for our households. Household salvation is our decree. You have delivered us from the power of death, sin, and the grave. We are free to serve the Lord our God. We draw near to You and you draw near to us. We resist the Devil and he flees. Never again are we bound to serve sin. You brought us out by a mighty hand. Satan has no more power over me. Addictions and generational curses are broken by the blood of the Lamb. The sentence of death is removed and the penalty of sin is paid. The blood has washed me whiter than snow. I praise you for parting the sea and making a way to escape. You have drowned the enemy who pursues me in the Sea. I will fear no evil, for you are with me. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. The valley of Death is no match for the Path of Life. The road of sin is no match for the Highway of holiness. Death is overcome through Life. Oh Death, where is thy sting? O Grave, where is thy victory? Death is swallowed up in Victory. Thanks be to God who gives us the Victory through Jesus Christ our Lord. Greater is the righteousness of God in me! Greater is the Life of God in me! Greater is Christ in me! Praise you Jesus, my hope of Glory! Praise you Lord for Your mercy endures forever! Praise you Jesus for the Power of Your Blood!

Delivered to His Presence, Protection, and Health

We proclaim the Passover blessing! You brought us out with a strong arm and a mighty hand. You brought us out and there was none feeble among us. You promise to bless our food and our water and heal all our disease. No disease from our former lives of bondage will come upon us. You sent your word to heal our diseases. You cover us with the cloud of Your Presence by day and the fire of Your Presence by night. You surround us as a shield. You go before us, stand beside us, and guard us from behind. No evil shall come near our dwelling place. We dwell under the shadow of your wing. Yes, oh God, our God, you are our sun and shield. Our light breaks forth like the morning. Our healing springs forth suddenly. Our Righteousness goes before us and the Glory of the Lord is our rearguard. We call to You and You answer us quickly. You hear our prayers, see our tears, and heal us! You guide us continually and satisfy our souls in drought. You strengthen our bones and we are a well- watered garden. You give grace and glory. No good thing will you withhold from those who walk with you. Bless the Lord oh my soul! And all that is in me, Bless your Holy Name! You forgive all iniquities, heal all diseases, redeem my life from destruction and crown me with loving kindness. Bless the Lord, O my soul! You are God Almighty!

Delivered from poverty, loss, hunger, and thirst

We declare our Passover blessing! You brought us forth with silver and gold. You daily load us with Your benefits. Our daily bread is provided and blessed. Our thirst is satisfied with water from the Rock, Christ Jesus. We are free from the curse of poverty and lack through the blood of your Passover Lamb. Your desire is that we prosper and be in health as our souls prosper in you. You have promised good success in everything we put our hand to do. You give us the land of our enemies. Yes, the vineyards, fields, cities and houses we did not build or plant are given to us. You have given us the power to get wealth to establish your covenant forever. We are blessed coming and going, sitting and rising, in field and city. The blessing of the Lord makes us rich and adds no sorrow with it. You make us trees planted by the rivers of water. Our leaves do not wither, our fruit is abundant and whatever we do prospers! Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits. Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever. Worthy is the Lamb to receive glory and honor, power and strength.

Suggested Icebreaker for Week 4 Spring Season 2009

2009-04-01T16:39:00.000-05:00

Pocket Pow-Wow

Participants must produce one object from their pocket (purse, wallet or body, ie. jewelry, belt, etc.) that has meaning for them and explain it's significance to the group.

God Encounter Testimonies

2009-04-01T16:36:00.002-05:00

We keep getting great reports from last Sunday. This is what our ministry team is saying:

“It was GREAT!! We got such a blessing from praying for others. We have never had someone we prayed for before fall out in the Spirit. It was an awesome experience to have the Holy Spirit use us in such a way!! What touched me very deeply was the women's husband, as he kneeled beside his wife, looked at me and said "Thank you".

"LETS DO SOME MORE!!”

“I can share with you that God loves the hearing impaired saints. I was blessed and challenged with a young lady that was hungry to received the gift of the Holy Spirit. As I prayed and Edith interpreted, she finally received the gift of speaking in tongues. The look on her face even appeared more peaceful and happier. God does miracles.”

“Sunday was amazing!! I was actually (for some odd reason) scared and stressed over this all last week. Well, Sunday came, and the Lord went to work. He sent just the right people to me for prayer and ministry.
I met 2 sweet couples who I will keep in contact with. They both were going through things that I had actually experienced myself. Thank you Lord for being faithful even when I try to doubt your power and grace!!”

“This last Saturday I ran into one of my co-workers in Birmingham. We talked and off we went. He knew I attended Word Alive and also thought that was very strange for us to meet as we did. On his way home from Birmingham his girlfriend brought up to him we need to go to church tomorrow. Then she said, let's go to that church you've mention, Word Alive. He said okay. When they arrived home he walked over to his dining room table and there sitting on the table by itself was a Word Alive DVD. He told his girlfriend, that is too many coincident, we are going to church tomorrow. During the end of the second service on Sunday, you call out in an area that someone had a back injury and has damage vertebrates. Directly were you pointing at where they were sitting. Though someone else stood up, they said you were pointing right at them. She, was in a car accident and a few of her vertebrates were damaged. They both new you were talking to her but didn't have the confidence to move out of their seats. Even though they did not stand up, the Holy Spirit definitely was on & your calling was accurate. They did go up during alter call and received her healing, my friend re-dedicated himself & her girlfriend’s son asked Christ into his life.”

“During the second service brought us two (father & son) diabetics. As Cecil prayed with the son, I placed my hand on his back. His back became SO HOT, that I'm convinced that the Lord delivered him right there. A word of knowledge was given that his (the son) days of coming and going were over ~ that the Lord was calling him to a place of commitment and involvement. Afterward we found out he visits WAIO sporadically with his parents. The word seemed to be "right-on," and he and his Dad both seemed very receptive. It was a great time of ministry.”

“I was inspired and encouraged! Sally and I ministered to about 3 people...all got healed and the baptism of the holy spirit!
Rick was making his way down to the front when a woman tugged on his jacket and asked him to pray for her and 2 kids. He did; she was baptized in the holy spirit!
Thanks for including us! We love to pray for people.”

THANK YOU!

2009-04-01T09:05:00.001-05:00

Dear Ministry Team,

Thank you so much for your gift of ministry this past Sunday. We had over 30 baptized, scores saved, and countless others received their "God Encounter." You all were so prompt, sincere, and prepared to help others receive. You were AWESOME! I believe we are all entering a time of momentum and power that will astound us in the days to come.

I have heard many great stories from those who received ministry and those who were praying and releasing God's power. We would love to hear from you concerning any testimonies you encountered this weekend. Just kick me back a "reply" and give us a few details.

Thanks again. You are true Champions. God Bless!

Bill Byrd
Word Alive
bill@wordalive.org

Summary of Kent's Sermon - 3/29/09

2009-04-01T08:59:00.002-05:00

God Encounters

Pastor Kent shared the number five catalyst that helps bring momentum to our spiritual growth and that is “Experiencing God Encounters”. Unless God touches our lives we won’t be able to move towards Him, Kent shared.

There are 3 basic but significant ‘God Encounters’:

1. Water Baptism. Unfortunately it has been relegated to a traditional ceremony but it was never supposed to be that way. It was designed and planned by God as a powerful and radical experience. In Matthew 3 we see Jesus going through the waters of baptism. What happened? The heavens were opened, the Holy Spirit descended to rest on Him and the Father affirmed His identity and the fact that He was pleased with Him, even before He had time to do anything. According to Romans 6, the water baptism has been designed so that when you experience it, everything you were struggling with will no longer have dominion over you. God gives you newness of life and your enemies are drown behind!("devils can’t swim")

2. Baptism of the Holy Spirit. When you are saved you have the Holy Spirit but when you are filled with the Holy Spirit, He has you! Acts 2 says that they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. Jesus planned this powerful encounter. He told His disciples –I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in Jerusalem until you are clothed with power from on high. The greatest proof of the resurrection of Christ is the baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues (John 16:7). It is a divine gift that empowers us and gives us boldness to live a victorious Christian life. Just like Blake said in his testimony: we need it!

3. The Gifts of the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12. The manifestation of the spiritual gifts is for all to enjoy. Without the gifts of the Spirit we stall spiritually. The gifts are for today. The gifts of the Spirit puts us back in the right track.

How do I get a God Encounter?

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be open to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." (Matthew 7)

Compassion

2009-03-24T22:55:00.002-05:00

One incident can change us forever. In the last century a rich boy and a poor boy lived in the same neighborhood. The rich boy wore nice clothes, lived in a nice house and had plenty of good, nutritious food to eat. The poor boy lived in a cheap house, wore ragged clothes and did not have much of anything to eat. One day the boys got into a scuffle. In the struggle the rich boy won. The poor boy got up, dusted himself off and told the rich kid that if he had the proper food to eat like the rich boy did, he would have won. Then the poor boy turned and walked away. The rich kid just stood there. He was numbed by what the poor boy had said. His heart was broken because he knew that it was true.

The rich boy never forgot that experience. From that day on he revolted against any favored treatment because he was rich. He made it a point to wear cheap clothing; he intentionally endured the hardships faced by the poor. His family was often embarrassed by the way he dressed, but despite family pressure, that young boy never again took advantage of his wealth.

History omits the name of the poor boy, but the rich boy who developed such a compassion for the poor made them his life’s work. His name is recorded in history. He dedicated his life to service and became a world-class physician, serving in Africa. His name was Albert Schweitzer. Very few people have had as much impact on the world as Albert Schweitzer. Even fewer people have gotten as much satisfaction out of life as he did.

Biography

Albert Schweitzer (14 January 1875 – 4 September 1965) was a German theologian, musician, philosopher, and physician. He was born in Kaysersberg in the province of Elsass-Lothringen (Alsace-Lorraine) of the German Empire. Schweitzer challenged both the secular view of Jesus as depicted by historical-critical methodology current at his time in certain academic circles, as well the traditional Christian view, depicting a Jesus Christ who expected and predicted the imminent end of the world. He received the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 for his philosophy of "Reverence for Life",[1] expressed in many ways, but most famously in founding and sustaining the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné, now in Gabon, west central Africa (then French Equatorial Africa). As a music scholar and organist, he studied the music of German composer Johann Sebastian Bach and influenced the Organ reform movement (Orgelbewegung).

Quotes by Albert Schweitzer

Schweitzer's passionate quest was to discover a universal ethical philosophy, anchored in a universal reality, and make it directly available to all of humanity.[2] This is reflected in some of his sayings, such as:

"Until he extends his circle of compassion to include all living things, man will not himself find peace."

"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.”

“Do something for somebody everyday for which you do not get paid.”

“An optimist is a person who sees a green light everywhere, while a pessimist sees only the red stoplight... the truly wise person is colorblind.”

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”

"Do something wonderful, people may imitate it."

"Therefore search and see if there is not some place where you may invest your humanity."

River of Spiritual Momentum - Summary

2009-03-24T14:18:00.003-05:00

What a great service we had this weekend!

Pastor Bill shared with us that there are five proven catalysts to help us gain momentum in our spiritual walk:
(1) Engaging the Bible
(2) Engaging in Spiritual Practices –Prayer/Fasting
(3) Engaging in Community
(4) Engaging in Serving the Poor
(5) Experiencing God Encounters.

In this weekend's message Bill shared #3 and 4.

Engaging in Community basically means meeting with people in a smaller group setting. If you get stuck, you are going to need someone to come to the rescue and help you out. We have to get smaller in order to get bigger. Jesus engaged in smaller groups when he would get away from the crowds to convey His heart with his disciples.

Three basic reasons why you need to connect with a smaller group:
a) You need it.:)
b) We need you. The small group needs you...needs who you are and what gifts you have. Ephesians 4:16 “from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.”
c) Jesus promises us that when two or three are gathered in His name He will show up. That’s enough reason for me to be wanting to meet in a smaller setting.

50 times in the New Testament the word ‘each other’ or ‘one another appears’. It is a family deal! Relationships will press you into conforming into Jesus. Psalm 133 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the LORD commanded the blessing-- Life forevermore.

Engaging in Serving the Poor is a genuine catalyst that gets you closer to Jesus. It puts you in the closest position to become like Jesus. Ephesians 2 says “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” You are His workmanship created for good works. Good works come in the form of serving others. Serving is powerful but serving the poor is even more powerful. Your destiny involves serving others.

What could really happen if we all would engage in serving the poor in our community?

Suggested Icebreaker for Week 3 Spring Season 2009

2009-03-24T13:54:00.003-05:00

When everyone arrives give them name tags and ask them to choose a penny from a bag. When everyone is seated ask them to look at the date on their penny. Ask them to think about something that happened to them that year.

Start with the oldest by asking "Does anyone have a penny with a date before 1950? 1960? etc. Start with the oldest date and work forward until the most recent penny is shared.

You can expect these types of responses, "1950 was the year my oldest son was born" "1988 I turned 35, just got divorced, was a single mom with two kids and thought my life was half over. But through the grace of God today I am 50 and happily remarried to a fine Christian man who is an excellent father to my children."

When the person stands they should give their name, how long they have been coming to your church (group, etc.) and then say something about the date. The answers can be funny, short or serious and allows each person to share as much or as little as they want.

New Equipping The Believer Classes Start Wednesday March 25

2009-03-19T19:25:00.002-05:00

NEW EQUIPPING THE BELIEVER CLASSES!
Wednesday Night Bible Studies start fresh this week! Four out of five dentists agree: Engaging the Bible is the #1 catalyst for spiritual growth. Check out these exciting options.

LIFE ESSENTIALS I
If you are ready to meet the challenge to keep growing in Christ, you may be ready for LIFE Essentials I. This is the first of two classes designed to give you a firm foundation in basic knowledge of the Christian life and help you get a handle on what the bible has to say about living the abundant life Jesus promised. Sam and Theresa Cash will tag team teach this terrific topic (complete with appropriate alliteration).

THE END OF RELIGION
Sick of religion? So was Jesus. Bill Byrd will be teaching from the book ‘The End of Religion’, Encountering the Subversive Spirituality of Jesus by Bruxey Cavey. Jesus never intended to found a new religion: instead he hoped to break down the very idea of religion as a way to God.

THE FAITH HALL OF FAME
Do you want to grow in faith? How about being remembered as someone who really knew and trusted Him? Join us in a study of the book of Hebrews chapter 11 that will make the overcoming faith of our predecessors come alive in you. We will be looking into the lives of Joseph, Moses, Rahab and Joshua.

How To Write A Testimony

2009-03-19T19:21:00.003-05:00

The Importance of a Testimony

No one else has had the unique set of experiences that God has given to you. However, many people have had similar experiences and will identify with your problems, because “there hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man …” (I Corinthians 10:13). An effective testimony shares with others how we have experienced the power of God in our lives through obedience to Christ’s commands. Therefore, the goal in sharing our personal struggles with others is to help them find God’s solutions for similar problems they may be facing. One way to share with others how God has worked in our lives is to use a four-part testimony.

The Basic Outline

1. Define the problem. People relate to problems. In fact, sharing problems can promote healing. We are told, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed” (James 5:16). Problems should be stated in general terms rather than using specific details that may have happened only to you. For instance, if you had a disagreement with your parents, do not focus on the details of the disagreement; rather, state the problem in a more general way, such as: “For many years I had reoccurring conflicts with my parents.” Most people will be able to readily identify with this problem.

2. Describe your “solution.” Explain how you tried to solve the problem in your own way only to make it worse. For example, you could say, “I tried to reason with my parents, but it always ended up in heated arguments that caused further separation.”

3. Explain God’s answer. What command of Christ or Biblical principles did you apply in order to resolve the problem? “I finally realized that I was not honoring my father and mother, and they were reacting to my spirit of pride and disrespect. I asked them to forgive me for this.”

4. Report the results. Describe how God’s solution has brought new resolution to the problem. “When I humbled myself, my parents also asked me to forgive them for their actions, and we now are able to enjoy open communication.”

The more precise and practical these are, the more others will want to hear them. This will result in a growing sense of a fulfillment in your life as you realize that God is making you a “living epistle” that He wants those around you to know and read. (See II Corinthians 3:2-3.)

The Power of a Four-Part Testimony

This is how the Basic Seminar was started. It was simply my attempt to explain to others the things God had taught me. Our human tendency is to not recognize God’s “classrooms” as opportunities to learn and apply His commands. Therefore, the next time a conflict arises, let us ask ourselves what commands relate to the situation and then obey them so that we can enjoy God’s lasting solutions. Then take the time to write out your testimony in a four-part format. These documented experiences will give you a powerful platform for discipling others.

Ice Breaker Of The Week

2009-03-17T17:19:00.003-05:00

Frozen T-Shirts

Equipment: T-shirts -one for each team.

In preparation for the game, soak the t-shirts in water, fold them in a ball, and put them in a freezer for longer than 3 hours. When you want to play the game, take the t-shirts out. The first team with a t-shirt on a person wins. Because the shirt is frozen, this game could take 15-20 minutes!

Spring Season 2009 - Small Group Leader Guidelines

2009-03-11T21:25:00.003-05:00

Here are 12 simple guidelines that will help you succeed in this spring season 2009

1. Make Calendar with dates, times & locations

2. Use the attendance sheet provided.

3. Draw people to you. Invite the people you meet, at church, at work… wherever you have opportunity.

4. Manage your groups. Check on the people who are absent. Keep track of the people who join you.

5. Stick to your promotion.

6. Don’t be afraid of food. If you can, have a hospitality committee in your group.

7. Be sensitive to time. We suggest an official ending time for your meeting where people can feel at liberty to leave. We also suggest having a final time thirty minutes after that.

8. Be vigilant to manage your group in discussions so that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate.

9. Numbers are not important! It is only important that people connect.

10. Groups should end the week of May 17-23, 2009.

11. Please plan to attend our Spring 2009 Thank You Debrief Celebration -Sunday at 6:00 pm –May 24th.

12. Report and relate to Your LIFE Group Coaches

Nanette Mudiam and Nancy Mitchell – Prophetic and Prayer Groups

Bill Byrd and Cecil Kessler – Hobbies and Sports Groups

Steve Waters and Huck Fincher – Ministry and Missions Groups

Sai Mudiam and Mark Harris – Books and Bible Studies

Santiago Hechart– Fellowship, Food, and Fun Groups

"Mirror, Mirror On The Wall........Who Am I In Christ?"

2009-03-11T21:19:00.002-05:00

I am complete in Him Who is the Head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:10).

I am alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5).

I am free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).

I am far from oppression, and fear does not come near me (Isaiah 54:14).

I am born of God, and the evil one does not touch me (I John 5:18).

I am holy and without blame before Him in love (I Peter 1:16; Ephesians 1:4).

I have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5; I Corinthians 2:16).

I have the peace of God that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

I have the Greater One living in me; greater is He Who is in me than he who is in the world (I John 4:4).

I have received the gift of righteousness and reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17).

I have received the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Jesus, the eyes of my understanding being enlightened (Ephesians 1:17,18).

I have received the power of the Holy Spirit to lay hands on the sick and see them recover, to cast out demons, to speak with new tongues. I have power over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means harm me (Mark 16:17-18; Luke 10:17,19).

I have put off the old man and have put on the new man, which is renewed in the knowledge after the image of Him Who created me (Colossians 3:9,10).

I have given, and it is given to me; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, men give into my bosom (Luke 6:38).

I have no lack for my God supplies all of my need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).

I can quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one with my shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16).

I can do all things through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:13).

I shall do even greater works than Christ Jesus (John 14:12).

I show forth the praises of God Who has called me out of darkness into His marvelous light
(I Peter 2:9).

I am God’s child ⎯ for I am born again of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God, which lives and abides forever (I Peter 1:23).

I am God’s workmanship, created in Christ unto good works (Ephesians 2:10).

I am a new creature in Christ (II Corinthians 5:17).

I am a spirit being ⎯ alive to God (I Thessalonians 5:23; Romans 6:11).

I am a believer, and the light of the Gospel shines in my mind (II Corinthians 4:4).

I am a doer of the Word and blessed in my actions (James 1:22,25).

I am a joint-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).

I am more than a conqueror through Him Who loves me (Romans 8:37).

I am an over comer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony (Revelation 12:11).

I am a partaker of His divine nature (II Peter 1:3,4).

I am an ambassador for Christ (II Corinthians 5:20).

I am part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people
(I Peter 2:9).

I am the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 5:21).

I am the temple of the Holy Spirit; I am not my own (I Corinthians 6:19).

I am the head and not the tail; I am above only and not beneath (Deuteronomy 28:13).

I am the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).

I am His elect, full of mercy, kindness, humility, and longsuffering (Romans 8:33; Colossians 3:12).

I am forgiven of all my sins and washed in the Blood (Ephesians 1:7).

I am delivered from the power of darkness and translated into God’s kingdom (Colossians 1:13).

I am redeemed from the curse of sin, sickness, and poverty (Galatians 3:13; Deuteronomy 28:15-68).

I am firmly rooted, built up, established in my faith and overflowing with gratitude (Colossians 2:7).

I am called of God to be the voice of His praise (II Timothy 1:9; Psalm 66:8).

I am healed by the stripes of Jesus (I Peter 2:24; Isaiah 53:5).

I am raised up with Christ and seated in heavenly places (Colossians 2:12; Ephesians 2:6).

I am greatly loved by God (Colossians 3:12; Romans 1:7; I Thessalonians 1:4; Ephesians 2:4).

I am strengthened with all might according to His glorious power (Colossians 1:11).

I am submitted to God, and the devil flees from me because I resist him in the Name of Jesus
(James 4:7).

I press on toward the goal to win the prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward
(Philippians 3:14).

For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, love, and a sound mind (II Timothy 1:7).

It is not I who live, but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20).

Wisdom from Larry The Cable Guy

2009-03-11T21:14:00.002-05:00

1. A day without sunshine is like night.

2. On the other hand, you have different fingers.

3. 42.7 percent of all statistics are made up on the spot.

4. 99 percent of lawyers give the rest a bad name.

5. Remember, half the people you know are below average.

6. He who laughs last, thinks slowest.

7. Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.

8. The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.

9. Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have.

10. A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.

11. Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.

12. If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.

13. How many of you believe in psycho-kinesis? Raise my hand.

14. OK, so what's the speed of dark?

15. When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

16. Hard work pays off in the future. Laziness pays off now.

17. How much deeper would the ocean be without sponges?

18. Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.

19. What happens if you get scared half to death, twice?

20. Why do psychics have to ask you your name?

21. Inside every older person is a younger person wondering, 'What the heck happened?'

22. Just remember -- if the world didn't suck, we would all fall off.

23. Light travels faster than sound. That's why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Icebreaker of the Week

2009-03-10T19:25:00.004-05:00

String Toss Game

Get a spool of string or yarn. Have each person answer 3 to 5 questions about themselves when they have the string in their possession. They then hold on to the string and throw the ball/spool to another so they can answer the questions. You eventually create a web of some sort. In the end, describe how the web is analogous to the group in that we all play a part in creating the web, connecting to each other, and that if one person was gone it would look different. Likewise, it is important that we all take part to make the group what it is, unique and special.

Here are some questions:

1. Where were you born?

2. What is your job?

3. How did you find out about our group?

4. What’s your favorite food?

5. What is your passion?

Have fun playing it!

For Our Spring Season Life Group Leaders

2009-03-09T18:38:00.011-05:00

Dear Life Group Leaders,

It is so exciting to communicate with you.

By now I am sure that you have either started your Life Group or about to start. We would like to let you know how proud we are of you in launching out in this exciting ministry. We want to make sure you have the information and the tools you need to serve the people God sends your way.

To this end we will continue posting icebreakers, lessons, and articles that will help you be effective in your service.

We encourage you to communicate with us your challenges, your prayer requests, your testimonies, and your praise reports. We are here for you! Next week we will be advertising the Life Groups on the WAIO News so it will be great if you could e-mail us some group pictures of your meetings.

Thanks again for serving the Lord and our Word Alive family through this ministry!

We love you and appreciate you.

Sincerely,

WAIO Pastoral Care Dept.- Bill Byrd, Santiago Hechart, Nanette Mudiam, Mark Harris, Nancy Mitchell

Worship: The Barrier of Pride

2009-02-16T19:23:00.003-06:00

by Rick Warren

It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God.
2 Corinthians 3:5 (NLT)

*** *** *** ***
Life is a struggle, but what most people don’t realize is that our struggle, like Jacob’s in Genesis 32:22-32, is really with God! We want to be God, and there’s no way we’re going to win that struggle, but we try anyway.

A.W. Tozer said, “The reason why many are still troubled, still seeking, still making little forward progress is because they haven’t yet come to the end of themselves. We’re still trying to give orders, and interfering with God’s work within us.”

We aren’t God, and we never will be. We’re humans, and the times when we try to be God are the times we end up most like Satan, who tried to be equal with God, too.

We accept our humanity intellectually, but not emotionally. We give mental assent to the idea, but when faced with our own limitations, we react with irritation, anger, and resentment. We want to be taller (or shorter), smarter, stronger, more talented, beautiful, and wealthy.

We want to have it all and do it all, and become upset when it doesn’t happen. Then, when we notice God gave others characteristics we don’t have, we respond with envy, jealousy, and self-pity.

What it means to surrender. Surrendering to God is not passive resignation, fatalism, or an excuse for laziness. It is not accepting the status quo. It may mean the exact opposite: sacrificing your life in resistance to evil and injustice, or suffering in order to change what needs to be changed. God often calls surrendered people to do battle on his behalf. It’s not for cowards or doormats.

Surrendering is not putting your brain in neutral and giving up rational thinking. God would not waste the mind he gave you! God does not want robots to serve him. Surrendering is not repressing your personality. God wants to use your unique personality. Rather than being diminished, surrendering enhances your uniqueness.

C. S. Lewis observed, “The more we let God take us over, the more truly ourselves we become – because he made us.He invented all the different people that you and I were intended to be. It is when I turn to Christ, when I give up myself to His personality, that I first begin to have a real personality of my own.”

© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.
Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers.

Perspective

2009-02-10T16:33:00.002-06:00

By Justin Pinkerman

Distraught over massive financial losses incurred during the past year, Adolf Merckle scrawled a suicide note to his family and wandered out the door into a dark, wintry night. He made his way for the railway where he stood by the tracks and waited in the cold. Spotting the headlight of an oncoming railcar, he threw himself under the train and took leave of this world.

As tragic as the suicide was, it would not have received worldwide press apart from one shocking fact: Adolf Merckle was valued at 9.2 billion dollars, ranking 94th on Forbes 2008 list of the world’s richest persons.

It can be hard to fathom the extent of Mr. Merckle’s wealth, a billion dollars being such a staggering sum. Think of it this way, 9,000 people could each win a million dollars in the lottery, pool their money together, and still have less money than Mr. Merckle was worth. Or, the entire nation of Haiti (8.5 million people) could work for two and a half years without accumulating income equal to Mr. Merckle’s portfolio.

A family statement, issued after Mr. Merckle’s untimely death, read as follows: "The desperate situation of his companies, caused by the financial crisis, the uncertainties of the last few weeks and his powerlessness to act, broke the passionate family entrepreneur and he took his own life." Surely Mr. Merckle’s financial missteps and poor investment decisions must have been painful to stomach. Watching his business empire suffer had to have been difficult for a man of his status. Even so, Mr. Merckle had billions of dollars to his name. It’s astonishing to consider the monumental loss of perspective that led the German billionaire to take his own life.

As evidenced by the tragic case of Adolf Merckle, even the most prosperous individual is not immune to a descent into despair. With corporations cutting payrolls and the stock market on the downswing, many leaders face worrisome bottom lines, dwindling investment portfolios, or even unemployment. Many find themselves in the fight of their lives, struggling daily to gain a healthy perspective.

Two Pointers to Keep Perspective When Problems Persist

1) Gratitude

Leaders enter dangerous territory when they neglect to be grateful for what they have, and instead begin to fear losing what they’ve accumulated. The blessings of life surround everyone, but the person is rare who allows its simple benefits of life to fill his or her soul. Yet, the choice presents itself to anyone: accentuate the positives or dwell on the negatives.

Choosing to be grateful earns the greatest return in times of trouble. It’s virtually impossible to be overtaken by worry when a person has a heart of gratitude. For this reason, it pays to log a gratitude journal - each day, list three things in life for which you’re thankful. Don’t just jot them down; roll them over in your mind. Let them sink into your spirit. Chances are, the exercise will dramatically improve your perspective.

2) Selective Hearing

For leaders, denial isn’t an option. Bad news is preferable to no news in that information conveys important knowledge about the current reality. The wise stay apprised of the economic outlook and make decisions based upon incoming data. At times those decisions can be painful such as instituting a spending freeze or terminating the employment of a devoted worker. Nonetheless, leaders shoulder the load and do what must be done to move forward.

While leaders refuse to put their heads in the sand, they do have the wherewithal to unplug from negativity. At a certain point, a glut of the same dreary news damages the psyche. Leaders confront reality, but they stop short of wallowing in worry and despondence. They avoid doomsdayers and naysayers, preferring to fill their minds with hope and opportunity.

The Final Words: Press On

Hiking up a mountain summit for sunrise can seem unreasonably hard in the beginning. The steep trail causes your legs to quiver, the altitude shortens your breath, and rocks and snares threaten to trip your step. For a time, you may be tempted to quit. However, if you persevere to the top, you’re greeted with the grandeur of the golden sky, and rewarded with a breathtaking perspective on the beauty of nature.

Like a mountaineer, you may be enduring a rocky, uphill stretch. If so, keep fighting to gain perspective. Hard work and persistence seldom go unrewarded, and they often carry you to a glorious destination.

Ruth's Letter & Quotes on Perspective

2009-02-10T13:47:00.006-06:00

Ruth went to her mail box and there was only one letter. She picked it up and looked at it before opening, but then she looked at the envelope again. There was no stamp - no postmark - only her name and address. She read the letter:

Dear Ruth:
I`m going to be in your neighborhood Saturday afternoon and I'd like to stop by for a visit.
Love Always,
Jesus

Her hands were shaking as she placed the letter on the table. 'Why would the Lord want to visit me? I'm nobody special. I don't have anything to offer...' With that thought, Ruth remembered her empty kitchen cabinets.

‘Oh my goodness, I really don't have anything to offer. I'll have to run down to the store and buy something for dinner.' She reached for her purse and counted out its contents. Five dollars and forty cents. Well, I can get some bread and cold cuts, at least...' She threw on her coat and hurried out the door.

A loaf of French bread, a half-pound of sliced turkey, and a carton of milk...leaving Ruth with grand total twelve cents to last her until Monday.. Nonetheless, she felt good as she headed home, her meager offerings tucked under her arm.

'Hey lady, can you help us, lady?'

Ruth had been so absorbed in her dinner plans, she hadn't even noticed two figures huddled in the alleyway. A man and a woman, both of them dressed in little more than rags.

'Look lady, I ain't got a job, you know, and my wife and I have been living out here on the street, and, well, now it's getting cold and we're getting kinda hungry and, well, if you could help us. Lady, we'd really appreciate it.'

Ruth looked at them both. They were dirty, they smelled bad and frankly, she was certain that they could get some kind of work if they really wanted to.

'Sir, I'd like to help you, but I'm a poor woman myself. All I have is a few cold cuts and some bread, and I'm having an important guest for dinner tonight and I was planning on serving that to Him.'

'Yeah, well, okay lady, I understand. Thanks anyway.'

The man put his arm around the woman's shoulders, turned and headed back into the alley. As she watched them leave, Ruth felt a familiar twinge in her heart.

'Sir, wait!'

The couple stopped and turned as she ran down the alley after them.

'Look, why don't you take this food. I'll figure out something else to serve my guest.'

She handed the man her grocery bag.

'Thank you, lady. Thank you very much!'

'Yes, thank you!' It was the man's wife, and Ruth could see now that she was shivering.

'You know, I've got another coat at home. Here, why don't you take this one.'

Ruth unbuttoned her jacket and slipped it over the woman's shoulders. Then smiling, she turned and walked back to the street...without her coat and with nothing to serve her guest.

'Thank you, lady! Thank you very much!'

Ruth was chilled by the time she reached her front door, and worried too. The Lord was coming to visit and she didn't have anything to offer Him. She fumbled through her purse for the door key. But as she did, she noticed another envelope in her mailbox.

'That's odd. The mailman doesn't usually come twice in one day.'

Dear Ruth:
It was so good to see you again. Thank you for the lovely meal. And
thank you, too, for the beautiful coat.
Love Always,
Jesus

The air was still cold, but even without her coat, Ruth no longer noticed.

Perspective
"What we see depends mainly on what we look for."
~ John Lubbock

"Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts."
~ Alfred Einstein

"If the stars should appear but one night every thousand years how man would marvel and adore."
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

"It is not the man who has little, but he who desires more, that is poor."
~ Seneca

Problems

2009-01-24T11:32:00.008-06:00

by Dr. John C. Maxwell

In the comic strip, Peanuts, a hapless Charlie Brown occasionally would be stalked by ominous rainclouds. Although the rest of the sky would shine bright and blue, poor Chuck would be stuck under a dark cloud, getting doused by its showers. While his friends and neighbors enjoyed the beauty of the day, a drenched Charlie Brown would be a scowling onlooker.

The lingering raincloud seemed to suggest Charlie Brown's inability to break clear from his problems. A melancholy character, he was prone to fits of worry and self-doubt. He concocted problems where none existed and fretted about those which were real.

While we do not have to contend with perpetual drizzle like Charlie Brown, many of us live under the gloomy shadow of self-induced rainclouds. When life's twists and turns work against us, we retreat into a rotten attitude or heap blame on our surroundings. By doing so, we neglect to deal with our problems and only add to our misery.

The Five Truths Leaders Understand about Problems

1. They're unavoidable.

For the aspiring leader, problems may be the most faithful companions of all. The road to success is seldom paved smoothly, and is oftentimes under construction. Potholes and barricades abound. At every bend in the journey, a leader's vision must peer around obstacles and through formidable walls to foresee a positive future. Leaders who sidestep problems stunt their growth - they end up shallow and debilitated. The successful leader stares down problems and resourcefully addresses them.

2. Perspective on the problem, rather than the problem itself, determines success or failure.

We see problems, not as they are, but as we are. That's why attitude plays such a crucial role in separating those who lead from those who follow. Alfred Armand Montapert said, "The majority see the obstacles; the few see the objectives; history records the successes of the latter, while oblivion is the reward of the former." Leaders look at problems from a healthy, self-confident vantage point.

A Wrong Perspective..............................A Right Perspective
Problems are unsolvable......................Problems are solvable
Problems are permanent......................Problems will pass
Problems are not normal......................Problems are natural
Problems make us bitter.......................Problems make us better
Problems control us..............................Problems challenge us
Problems stop us.................................Problems stretch us

3. There's a big difference between problem spotting and problem solving.

Anyone, even the fairly imperceptive, can identify problems, but few people have the initiative to tackle them. As novelist John Galsworthy observed, "Idealism increases in direct proportion to one's distance from the problem." As rule, don't voice complaint about a problem until you're:
1) able to put forth a recommendation for solving it, and
2) willing to take an action to solve it.

4. The size of the person is more important than the size of the problem.

You can tell the caliber of a person by the amount of opposition it takes to discourage him or her. Joke writer Robert Orben says that he once saw an ad from an entertainer that read, "Lion tamer - wants tamer lion." Clearly, this performer wasn't looking for greatness but merely for something manageable. To lead at the highest level requires wrestling with problems seemingly beyond our ability to apprehend.

5. Problems, responded to correctly, can propel us forward.

Leaders are not discovered in the limelight; rather they are forged in the darkness under heat and pressure. Leaders gain respect on difficult terrain, after taking a few blows and being shaped by the problems they encounter. As a matter of fact, courage and valor go undetected until seen through the lens of adversity.

John C. Maxwell is an internationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author who has sold over 16 million books. His organizations have trained more than 2 million leaders worldwide. Dr. Maxwell is the founder of EQUIP and INJOY Stewardship Services. Every year he speaks to Fortune 500 companies, international government leaders, and audiences as diverse as the United States Military Academy at West Point, the National Football League, and ambassadors at the United Nations. A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Business Week best-selling author, Maxwell was named the World's Top Leadership Guru by Leadershipgurus.net. He was also one of only 25 authors and artists named to Amazon.com's 10th Anniversary Hall of Fame. Three of his books, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, Developing the Leader Within You, and The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader have each sold over a million copies.

Encouraging Small Group Members

2009-01-19T15:49:00.003-06:00

Encouragement takes place when your love as a leader meets one of your group member's fears. Everyone has fears or disappointments or confusion about life. When we show others that we truly love them in the midst of their pain, we are providing encouragement. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that death and life are in the power of the tongue. Encouraging words bring life; shaming or harsh words bring death. Your job as a leader is to bring wods of life to people who are feeling the sting of death emotionally. Listen to the instructions of Paul in Ephesians 4:29: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Encouragement is a community builder.

Tips for Becoming an Encouraging Small Group Leader

1. Be slow to speak (Proverbs 12:18; 13:3; James 1:19). A great way to encourage members is to listen to their stories with attentiveness and caring. Do not try to fix things quickly or give glib, pat answers to their problems or issues. Simply listen.

2. Exercise sensitivity. The Bible reminds us that our speech should be seasoned with salt. Our words should be filled with grace (Ephesians 4:29) and should mimic those of Jesus who came in grace and truth (John 1:14).

3. Show kindness when you speak. Words of gentleness are soothing and tender. Truth does not always have to be delivered from a rifle barrel. Truth spoken gently is more readily heard and more easily obeyed.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Trying to Be an Encourager

1. Defensiveness. Don't try to justify yourself. Simply listen to what others are saying and try to clarify what is being said.

2. Sarcasm and criticism. Sometimes humor gets out of hand. Remember that people are easily injured with words. (Proverbs 15:4)

3. Correction. Don't tell people that their feelings are wrong or inaccurate or say to someone, "You shouldn't feel that way." The point is, they do feel that way, and you need to listen carefully to determined why they have the feelings they are experiencing.

4. Advice-giving. Avoid giving answers before having really investigated the questions. Advice-giving can be patronizing and can shut down communication. Quick advice often ignores the real problem.

Real encouragement requires active listening. It means fully engaging with another person and participating in their pain and frustration. As you listen carefully, you will be able to bring words of encouragement and comfort and hope to people in your group.

Adapted from "The Willow Creek Guide to Leading Life-Changing Small Groups" by Bill Donahue. Copyright 1996 by the Willow Creek Association.

A Resolution Worth Keeping and a Music Video By Brandon Heath

2009-01-04T18:21:00.009-06:00

A Resolution Worth Keeping
by Jon Walker

For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. 1 Corinthians 2:2 (NIV)

*** *** *** ***

How are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions? You remember that list you made with optimistic enthusiasm but unrealistic expectations.

One of my friends started making New Year’s resolutions like, “I won’t lose ten pounds this year,” and “I commit to watching the Super Bowl this year.”

I suspect Paul only had one resolution on his list: “This year I resolve to know nothing but Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2).

Paul’s message is radically simple: Salvation is in Christ alone. What does this mean?

It’s not Christ plus your good behavior.

It’s not Christ plus the number of Bible verses you memorize.

It’s not Christ plus your tithe or the church you attend.

It’s not Christ plus wisdom from the latest Christian seminar.

It’s simply Christ plus nothing. Christ and Christ alone.

© 2009 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.

Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers.

I'm Not Who I Was by Brandon Heath

Three Trees

2008-12-24T08:37:00.004-06:00

Three Trees

Author Unknown

There were three small trees living near each other on a mountainside. The first little tree looked up at the stars and said: "I want to hold treasure. I want to be covered with gold and filled with precious stones. I'll be the most beautiful treasure chest in the world!"

The second little tree looked out at the small stream trickling by on its way to the ocean. "I want to be traveling mighty waters and carrying powerful kings. I'll be the strongest ship in the world!"

The third little tree looked down into the valley below where busy men and women worked in a busy town. "I don't want to leave the mountain top at all. I want to grow so tall that when people stop to look at me, they'll raise their eyes to heaven and think of God. I will be the tallest tree in the world."

Years passed. The rain came, the sun shone, and the little trees grew tall.

One day three woodcutters climbed the mountain. The first woodcutter looked at the first tree and said, "This tree is beautiful. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining axe, the first tree fell. "Now I shall be made into a beautiful chest, I shall hold wonderful treasure!" The first tree said.

The second woodcutter looked at the second tree and said, "This tree is strong. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining axe, the second tree fell. "Now I shall sail mighty waters!" thought the second tree. "I shall be a strong ship for mighty kings!"

The third tree felt her heart sink when the last woodcutter looked her way. She stood straight and tall and pointed bravely to heaven. But the woodcutter never even looked up. "Any kind of tree will do for me." He muttered. With a swoop of his shining axe, the third tree fell.

The first tree rejoiced when the woodcutter brought her to a carpenter's shop. But the carpenter fashioned the tree into feedbox for animals. The once-beautiful tree was not covered with gold, nor with treasure. She was coated with saw dust and filled with hay for hungry farm animals.

The second tree smiled when the woodcutter took her to a shipyard, but no mighty sailing ship was made that day. Instead the once-strong tree was hammered and sawed into a simple fishing boat. She was too small and too weak to sail to an ocean, or even a river; instead she was taken to a little lake.

The third tree was confused when the woodcutter cut her into strong beams and left her in a lumberyard. "What happened?" the once-tall tree wondered. "All I ever wanted was to stay on the mountain top and point to God..."

Many many days and night passed. The three trees nearly forgot their dreams. But one night, golden starlight poured over the first tree as a young woman placed her newborn baby in the feedbox. "I wish I could make a cradle for him," her husband whispered. The mother squeezed his hand and smiled as the starlight shone on the smooth and the sturdy wood. "This manger is beautiful," she said. And suddenly the first tree knew he was holding the greatest treasure in the world.

One evening a tired traveler and his friends crowded into the old fishing boat. The traveler fell asleep as the second tree quietly sailed out into the lake. Soon a thundering and thrashing storm arose. The little tree shuddered. She knew she did not have the strength to carry so many passengers safely through with the wind and the rain. The tired man awakened. He stood up, stretched out his hand, and said, "Peace." The storm stopped as quickly as it had begun. And suddenly the second tree knew he was carrying the king of heaven and earth.

One morning, the third tree was startled when her beams were yanked from the forgotten woodpile. She flinched as she was carried through an angry jeering crowd. She shuddered when soldiers nailed a man's hands to her. She felt ugly and harsh and cruel. But on Sunday morning, when the sun rose and the earth tremble with joy beneath her, the third tree knew that God's love had changed everything. It had made the third tree strong. And every time people thought of the third tree, they would think of God. That was better than being the tallest tree in the world.

So next time you feel down because you didn't get what you want, just sit tight and be happy because God is thinking of something better to give you.

Christmas: God's Grace at Work

2008-12-22T19:00:00.009-06:00

Christmas: God’s Grace at Work

by Rick Warren

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT)

God says, “I will give you my grace.” What is grace? That’s when God gives you what you need, not what you deserve. Grace is when God says, “I’m going to take your problem and make it my problem.” Grace is God’s Riches given to you At Christ’s Expense.

The Bible says: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV). In other words, you can’t earn your way to heaven. You can’t work your way in. It’s just a gift.

Did you know that’s why we give gifts at Christmas? Because that’s when God gave the gift of his Son to you – by grace. We give gifts because God gave us the greatest gift at Christmas.

I know I don’t look like it today, but for three years I was a lifeguard. And every lifeguard knows you can’t save someone as long as they are trying to save themselves. If somebody is drowning and flailing around in panic, a lifeguard knows to just stay back for a few seconds and wait until they give up. Because if you try to save them while they’re trying to save themselves, they will pull you under too.

When they finally give up, they relax, you put your arm around them and just swim back to shore. It’s really quite easy.

God wants to save you. Jesus Christ wants to save you from your hurts, your habits, and your hang-ups. He wants to save you for his purpose and by his grace. But you’ve got to quit trying to do it yourself. You’ve got to relax. You need to let go and let God be God.

© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.
Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers.

4 Helpful Tips for Small Groups

2008-12-18T14:31:00.002-06:00

Looking for a vibrant small-group meeting? Here are 4 distinctives of a successful small-group on the road to redemptive community.

1. Questions and opportunities for group members to tell their stories before getting into Bible study. Many groups utilize “ice-breaker” type questions.

2. Interactive and more discovery-oriented Bible study. The discovery approach to Bible study is one of the expectations of small groups today.

3. Some level or variety of experiences. This can range from creating events as part of the meeting, utilizing the five senses, to engaging a video or movie clip with applicable follow-up questions and conversation.

4. If media is used, the group should focus on a screen for no more than 15 minutes. The longer a group turns away to watch a TV or monitor, the more good group dynamic is lost.

Christmas: Saved for a Purpose

2008-12-17T22:14:00.007-06:00

Christmas: Saved for a Purpose

by Rick Warren

He saved us and he called us to be his own people, not because of what we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:9 (TEV)

The Bible also teaches that Jesus came to save you for something. God has a purpose and a plan for your life; he created you for a specific mission.

The Bible says: “He saved us and he called us to be his own people, not because of what we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:9 TEV). You can live life at one of three levels: survival, success, or the highest level – significance.

Most of the world lives at the survival level. Half of the world’s six billion people live on less than $2 a day. That’s survival. If you’re an American, even if you are the poorest of the poor in the United States, you live at the success level. Most of the world would love to have your problems. But you say, “If I’m so successful, why don’t I feel fulfilled?”

You don’t feel fulfilled because you were made for more than success. The ultimate goal of life is significance, not success. You were made for significance – and significance comes from knowing God, knowing his purpose for your life, and then doing it. Then you realize, “This is what I was made for! This is my niche! It’s me! Now I know why I’m here on the planet.”

All the success in the world can’t give you that.

That’s why the very first sentence of The Purpose Driven Life is a very counter-cultural statement: “It’s not about you.” That’s the exact opposite of what our culture says. Our entire culture says, “It’s all about you.”

You’ll never find satisfaction and significance by living for yourself because God didn’t wire you that way. You were made for God. There will always be a hole in your heart because you need something greater than yourself. You need God’s purpose. You’ve tried everything else. Why not try God?

So Jesus said, “I want to save you from your past. I want to save you for a purpose. And I want to save you by something.”

The Christian Meaning of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" PLUS A Great Video...

2008-12-16T20:17:00.009-06:00

Catholics in England during the period 1558 to 1829 were prohibited by law to practice their faith either in public or private. It was illegal to be Catholic until Parliament finally emancipated Catholics in England in 1829.

Legend has it "The Twelve Days of Christmas" was written in England as one of the "catechism songs" to help young Catholics learn the basics of their faith. In short, it was a coded-message, a memory aid. Since the song sounded like rhyming nonsense, young Catholics could sing the song without fear of imprisonment.

The song goes, "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me…"
The "true love" mentioned in the song doesn’t refer to an earthly suitor, but it refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. i.e. the Church.

1st Day: The partridge in a pear tree is Christ Jesus upon the Cross. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge because she would feign injury to decoy a predator away from her nestlings. She was even willing to die for them. The tree is the symbol of the fall of the human race through the sin of Adam and Eve. It is also the symbol of its redemption by Jesus Christ on the tree of the Cross.

2nd Day: The "two turtle doves" refers to the Old and New Testaments.

3rd Day: The "three French hens" stand for faith, hope and love—the three gifts of the Spirit that abide (1 Corinthians 13).

4th Day: The "four calling birds" refers to the four evangelists who wrote the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke and John—which sing the song of salvation through Jesus Christ.

5th Day: The "five golden rings" represents the first five books of the Bible, also called the Jewish Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

6th Day: The "six geese a-laying" is the six days of creation.

7th Day: The "seven swans a-swimming" refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord.

8th Day: The "eight maids a milking " reminded children of the eight beatitudes listed in the Sermon on the Mount.

9th Day: The "nine ladies dancing" were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

10th Day: The "ten lords a-leaping" represents the Ten Commandments

11th Day: The "eleven pipers piping" refers to the eleven faithful apostles.

12th Day: The ‘twelve drummers drumming" were the twelve points of belief expressed in the Apostles’ Creed: belief in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, that Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary, made man, crucified, died and arose on the third day, that he sits at the right hand of the father and will come again, the resurrection of the dead and life everlasting.

So the next time you hear "The Twelve Days of Christmas" consider how this otherwise non-religious sounding song had its origins in keeping alive the teaching of the Catholic faith.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
adapted from email messages, from "How To Decode the Twelve Days of Christmas," by Hugh D. McKellar, U.S. Catholic, 12/1979, and from "‘12 Days of Christmas’ is no nonsense, but a serious riddle" by David Crowder El Paso Times, 12/19/1993. Also, Origin of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" An Underground Catechism by Fr. Hal Stockert 12/17/95

Quotes Worth Remembering...

2008-12-04T14:35:00.003-06:00

Ideas

"An idea is salvation by imagination."
~ Frank Lloyd Wright

"Human history is, in essence, a history of ideas."
~ H.G. Wells

"An invasion of armies can be resisted, but not an idea whose time has come."
~ Victor Hugo

"The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas."
~ Linus Pauling

Ideas - Vehicles from Present to Future

2008-12-03T16:33:00.002-06:00

By Justin Pinkerman

After the dismal showing of the Republican Party in the 2008 election cycle, critics both within and without the party blamed the poor performance on a lack of fresh ideas.

While it's debatable which party offers stronger ideas for the future, one thing is certain: people expect leaders to put forth powerful ideas before entrusting them with the authority to lead.

Ideas are vehicles that transport us from what is to what could be; leaders are drivers who seek out the best ideas and pilot them into the future. Of course, the salvation of ideas depends upon more than finding them. Only when we shape, stretch, and apply ideas to our lives do they bring us benefit. However, before an idea is implemented, it must be discovered, and the responsibility for hunting down the best ideas falls squarely on the shoulders of leaders. Let's examine three simple avenues by which leaders can take hold of transformative ideas.

THREE PRACTICAL TIPS FOR ATTAINING THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

1) Spend Time in Reflective Thought

While experiencing the emotions of a tense meeting or the motion of a fast-paced day, it can be difficult to think clearly. Leaders make a habit of withdrawing the reconsider events after they transpire. By doing so, they discover ideas and insights that would otherwise go undetected. In addition, reflective thinking enables a leader to rise above the details of the day and connect ideas to the big picture.

When surrounded by a chirping Blackberry, a buzzing landline, and a bustling office, reflective thinking is a near-impossibility. The search for ideas requires a leader to sequester himself or herself from time to time in order to think without distraction. Leaders must carve out the space for reflective thought by occasionally placing themselves off limits.

2) Tap into Your Social Network

Reflective thinking has merit, but not all ideas are generated in isolation. Important as quiet reflection may be, leaders benefit equally from strolling through the office to solicit the thoughts of colleagues and co-workers. The best thinkers I know have a penchant for asking penetrating questions. In doing so, they draw wisdom out of the repositories of experience and expertise around them.

Thought leaders invest their social capital to come up with innovative ideas. They form clubs or join associations to debate the pressing issues related to their field. They exchange ideas with fellow leaders and accumulate a wealth of knowledge. Some have even solved organizational dilemmas by open-sourcing, allowing experts anywhere (clients, suppliers, academics) to bring their knowledge to bear on a particular problem. Whatever the case, thought leaders initiate conversations with those in their networks to unearth new ideas.

3) Uncover the Lost Art of Leadership... Reading

Precious few leaders invest time to read books and extract ideas from them - to the detriment of the organizations they lead. Authors spend countless days fine-tuning their ideas into paragraphs and chapters before publishing them as a book. Yet, in a matter of a few hours, a leader can access and absorb those ideas. In turn, leaders can apply newfound ideas in their strategy, systems, and organizational dynamics to positively alter the course of their business.

If you doubt the power of a written idea, consider this intellectual progression: Ralph Waldo Emerson's philosophical writings on self-reliance informed and inspired a young man named Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau's application of self-reliance to social injustice prompted him to pen an essay entitled "Resistance to Civil Government". Halfway around the world, Ghandi read Thoreau's essay, and it motivated him to organize India's peaceful protest of Britain's imperial rule. Decades later, Martin Luther King, Jr. would draw encouragement and strength from the writings of Ghandi as he coordinated non-violent resistance to the oppressive systems of racism in America.

Summary

By putting his ideas on paper, Ralph Waldo Emerson initiated a chain reaction that sparked social revolutions on two separate continents! Ideas matter. Unfortunately, they don't fall into our laps. They must be extracted from our relationships and environments through intentionality of thought, interaction, and habit.

In the words of author Bill Taylor, "The only sustainable form of business leadership is thought leadership." Products have limited shelf life, competitive advantages can be copied, and the technology of today will be obsolete tomorrow. Ideas, on the other hand, will always be in demand, and "leader" will always be the name given to the person who finds and applies them.

Needed: More 'Miracles'

2008-12-03T16:23:00.003-06:00

By :Kay Warren

"Mom, Jaime's in labor!" My son's voice was full of excitement and fear as he told me our daughter-in-law's water had just broke and they were at the hospital. I tried to sound reassuring, but at 34 and a half weeks, I knew there could be real problems. Before heading to the hospital, I phoned a pediatric nurse and shared the details. My friend's words were far from positive: "My best advice is to prepare for a very sick baby. That way, if everything is fine, you will be thrilled. If it's not, you won't be caught unaware."

At the hospital, the situation changed by the moment. The baby was in a breech position, so a C-section was scheduled for later that evening. But as Jaime progressed into active labor, the time of the surgery was moved up. From there, things moved downhill—rapidly. My daughter-in-law has a blood clotting disorder, and the anesthesiologist informed her there would be a blood transfusion ready in the operating room in case they could not control her bleeding.

It suddenly became clear that the baby was in danger. His heart rate started dropping. The nurse's quiet but urgent voice calling for the doctor to come to the room—"Stat!"—set off alarm bells in our hearts. Our tiny doctor flew down the hall, stopping outside of Jaime's room so as not to cause panic. Seconds later, they wheeled Jaime through the corridors at a speed I didn't think was possible for a clunky gurney.

Josh could not bear to see his wife with a breathing tube down her throat. Dressed in paper garb, he sat outside the delivery room sobbing. I positioned myself outside the operating suite, peering at Josh through a tiny glass window. I had never felt so helpless in my life. My son was crying inconsolably. I couldn't comfort him. I couldn't protect Jaime, and I couldn't deliver my grandson whole and healthy into this world. All I could do was wait and pray.

After that stomach-wrenching wait, we heard a tiny cry. Josh grinned and gave us a thumbs-up. Jaime's mom and I held each other, crying, laughing, praising and thanking God for a safe delivery for Cole Trabue Warren and for protecting Jaime. We didn't know it then, but our fears turned out to be justified. Cole was not breathing when he was born. It took highly skilled medical personnel to coax him from death to life. A nurse in the delivery room told us that we needed to remind Cole every day that he is a "miracle." I felt relieved. For reasons completely unknown to me, God performed a miracle for both Cole and Jaime. For that, I will be eternally grateful.

But I couldn't stop my thoughts from wandering to the sub-par delivery rooms I have been in around the world. While my family was given an undeserved miracle, thousands of women in the same situation in Rwanda, Cambodia, Ukraine, or India would likely have died an agonizing death alongside their stillborn child. That's only if they actually make it to a hospital; many thousands more labor at home, trying futilely to deliver a baby in distress. Sometimes these women and babies both die; sometimes the mother survives but the difficult labor leaves a hole in her bladder or rectum called a fistula, causing her to leak urine or feces for the rest of her life. What makes the difference between moms and babies who survive and those who don't?

Access to quality health care, pure and simple. My family has access to the best health care—my sisters around the world do not. Blood clotting disorders, premature labor, breech babies, low Apgar scores at birth, all medically challenging situations in the best hospitals, become tragedies for women and babies with little or no access to health care.

Health-care access isn't initially as riveting a cause as rescuing children from the sex trade or finding a vaccine for HIV. But when someone you love needs medical help fast, your perspective changes. Suddenly, your world is reduced to one objective: Help her survive. Let him live. Americans are used to hospitals minutes away, doctors and nurses on duty, lifesaving procedures, and the latest technology and medication available. When you live in a developing country, all bets are off.

When will this unconscionable disparity touch our hearts? When will it begin to dawn on us that the widening gap between the haves and the have-nots is a subject worthy of our passion? When will North American Christians decide that what they consider essential for their families is essential for all?

Our miracle baby is nearly a month old. Another miracle baby was born 2,000 years ago—a different situation, certainly. But the baby born in the manger grew up and showed us how much he values children, each one a precious miracle deserving a chance to live.