A Pastor's Passion & A Daddy's Heartbeat

KIDZ Camp 2010

2010-08-04T11:55:00.001-05:00

This week has been GREAT!

Sunday we enjoyed a power packed service where God drew His people nearer than ever before. As a few fall off

others are added and made stronger. We grow. We mature. We produce fruit, or we choose to fall from the vine

of truth and wither in the heat of Judas like self will.

This pastor doesn't always understand all that God is doing, yet He confirms his word and promises every time!

Monday morning we headed out to Kerville with 8 campers, 3 matrons staying for the week. All were excited and

looking forward to a great week of camp. By Monday night the first one had already been filled with the Holy Ghost!

Tuesday night's report was filled with tears of joy as 4 more were filled! Can't wait to see what happens the rest of the week!

Slippery Slopes and Little Foxes

2010-05-10T13:18:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day Sunday was a great success! We had a beautiful move of God's spirit during the praise & worship portion. Sis. Sanders' reminder of God's faithfulness to our prayers was very timely. The prayer pillows were a result of vision and hard work. Thanks to all that helped that it happen!

In addition to the program, we witnessed Lynette Stephens being baptized in Jesus' Name and she beautifully received the gift of the Holy Ghost!

This Week

Tonight - ACT OUT Drama Practice at 7:30 in preparation for the upcoming Sectional Youth Rally on May 21

Tuesday - Family Prayer 6:30 - 7:30pm

Wednesday - Worship & The Word 7:30pm

-Adult Bible Study

-KIDZ Church

-SURGE Student Ministries

Thursday - Ladies of Truth monthly bible study and fellowship. This month Sis. Wanda Owens has arranged for Dr. Rorick to be our special guest speaker. He will be addressing health and wellness issues. A meal will be provided. All ladies are encouraged to attend!

Saturday - Men's Fellowship & Golf - please contact Bro. Q. Creme for times, and fees at qncreme4@msn.com

Elders of Truth will be singing at Lexington Place - Bro Bell is inviting anyone that would like to help sing to join them. For more information, please contact Bro. Ricky Bell at rickygbell@sbcglobal.net

Sunday - "Professional Sunday" - Be sure to extend an invitation to any professionals you know.

Urgent Prayer Requests

- Please continue to pray for Sis Wanda Owens and her family as her sister, Aline Sonnier continues on hospice care at this time.

- Sis. Diane Montoya's great niece continues to need a miracle today.

- Sis. Jasmine Livingston's friend of many years, lost her husband in a tragic motorcycle accident late last week. This family is grieving the loss of husband and father.

- Bro. Tom Foster, who pastor's in the Dallas area sent out the following request this morning for his mother.

Pat Foster suffered a brain aneurysm yesterday morning and has been unconscious since that time and is currently on life support. The doctor's have said there is nothing they can do. God is able to raise her up out of this condition. Please cover the Foster family in prayer during this time.

Looking Forward

Pentecost Sunday May 23 - In two weeks we will celebrate Pentecost Sunday with an "Old Fashioned Sunday" theme. We are asking all that can please come and participate. It will be a great time of fun and we are asking God to continue to pour out of His spirit upon ALL flesh. Let's make sure and do our part to invite and bring people with us!

And finally, A Note from Pastor Sanders

Little Foxes and Slippery Slopes - While our attendance numbers are improving and we are busier than ever before, still I feel a great need to send this reminding word today.

We must always be aware of our spiritual surroundings and potential pitfalls. Make sure your surroundings are those that are conducive to a Godly lifestyle. There, and only there, will you be safe in this very wicked world we live in. It is truly the little foxes that may not seem "too bad" and totally harmless that destroys the vine. Once the vine is destroyed the plant will die. Suffering a spiritual death must be avoided at all costs. Remember, there is NO sacrifice too great to ensure our salvation remains intact.

Trust the Lord. Spiritual compromise never yields revival. What will it profit you if you gain this entire world and loose your soul? The Church should not and MUST not become an afterthought. The Church cannot be on the back burner of your life. The Church SHOULD be the most important place you know. It's success and vitality is ALL of our responsibility. Put it FIRST. Jesus died for The Church - It's THAT IMPORTANT! Be FAITHFUL to the house of God. Stop making excuses why you can't be faithful and simply start BEING faithful God WILL honor your sacrifices! Don't slip! Don't slip into relationships that God cant be pleased with. Don't slip into compromising positions that put your character and integrity in question. Don't slip into a spiritual coma. LIVE everyday FOR God...

What's It Worth To You?

2010-05-04T01:47:00.004-05:00

Have you ever been asked this question? "So, what's it worth to ya?"

This question often comes when you are preparing to part with something.
It can be a very tough question to answer, depending on the value of "it".

The struggle for an answer comes not when you have an appraisal for an object and it's just that, an object to you.

The struggle is present when you cant place a monetary value on something. It is simply special to you and perhaps you alone. It holds value that only you can appreciate.

It's surface would attract no one else. It has no appreciable worth to anyone else on the planet, but you. An insurance company most likely wouldn't write it - yet still, its priceless to you. So, back to the question at hand. "What's it worth to ya?"

Most "things" like like "this" find a special home. Some are placed in a prominent position that can been seen by many, as to surely serve as a conversation piece. Others are safely tucked away in a special box or container in an attic or chest. Some even get put behind lock and key. Perhaps even a home safe or a safety deposit box at your bank.

Why do we take such measures for things of no "real" value? Because their value is real. Their value is real to you and I. We protect the things that are most precious to us. We strive to keep and to hold those things we cherish.

Why then is it we will take such steps to protect "things" while we leave our hearts, our minds and our souls unprotected? Why do we invest in home alarm systems and insurance policies to protect our children and our belongings, but we fail to cover them with the blood of Calvary? What is the measure and value of the things we love and cherish the most? Is it worth living a life of example before them? Is it worth showing, not telling them only, but showing them to live with a servant's heart? Is it worth instilling in them the value of a REAL relationship with God? Is it worth loving her as Christ loved the church? Is it worth honoring Him with your love and devotion? Is it worth doing right and not always "being" right? Just a thought this morning, just a thought. Are you protecting the things that are most important in your life?

So, "What's it worth to ya?"

Things we truly value, and love we guard them. We TAKE measures to defend and to protect. What are you doing?

Lip service is of little value; real or otherwise. Action is costly...

Random?

2010-04-26T14:11:00.002-05:00

There seems to be a new buzz word among the younger folks. Random.

My teen said to me today of her little sister's conversation, "Dad, it was just so random!"

I am hearing this word more and more. It seems to have very little meaning really. For some unknown reason this word became more than noticed to me today, it became almost annoying.

I consulted Mr. Webster for its proper definition. My consultation yielded the following: RANDOM, a haphazard course at random: without definite aim, direction, rule, or method.

I have made the following decision. I never want to be RANDOM about anything! We must have AIM, DIRECTION, RULE and METHOD in order to be truly effective!

Effective, yes! Random? No thanks!

I'm

2010-04-24T09:37:00.002-05:00

Words fail me today. That's nothing new though. We have all the resources that we could ever want at our fingertips. More ability than at any other time in history to express our selves. We have access to volumes and volumes of research and information, yet still, I'm failing. I'm failing to properly convey just how thankful I am. Thankful to God for being so very good to me. Better in fact than I am to myself. Thankful for His grace and mercy. Thankful He didn't and doesn't give to me what I deserve, rather He gives me the blessings He desires me to have. I could never count them all. I cant even attempt such an undertaking. When my heart begins to ponder all the goodness of the great God that we serve I become very small. My abilities even smaller still. So, thank you Jesus for:

- Your blood that washed my sins away.
- Your grace that exceeds my failures.
- Your power that hides my weaknesses.
- Your painful stripes you bore that heals me.
- Your perfect love that affords me great comfort.
- Your spirit that completes me.
- Your life that guides me.
- Your hand that protects me.
- Your friendship that stays with me.
- Your royalty that includes me.
- Your peace that I cant understand.
- Your strength that sustains me.
- Your riches that supplies all my needs.
- Your sanctuary that gives me peace.
- Your word that supplies truth and exposes lies.
- Your kinship that gives me access to Your great throne.
- Your trust that gave to me the perfect wife and three beautiful, wonderful, incredibly divine children.
- Your call that allows and enables me to pastor and lead some of the finest people that have ever walked on earth.

I'm even thankful for the knock on the door that just interrupted this posting. It was two well dressed and well intending young men, "Jehovah's witnesses" - that subtly reminded me I have a work to do today for you!

Yes Lord, I am thankful!

Easter at Gospel Truth – Come Join Us for a Celebration – He Lives!

2010-03-29T13:39:00.001-05:00

Day 8 of 30 Days of Thirst at GTPC…

2010-03-12T10:05:00.001-06:00

Thirsty for souls.

Do you remember the last time you were really, really thirsty? I'm talking about when your tongue would stick to the top of your mouth and you thought you couldn't walk one more inch until you have some sort of liquid touch your mouth. The kind of thirsty when once you finally do get a drink you feel it as it travels all the way down. The kind of thirst that would cause you to pay a ridiculous price for something to drink. This is the kind of thirst that we need to develop for the things that God loves.

God loves souls. Granted he doesn't love the sins that fill the lives of so many, but oh how He loves the person! We need a fresh passion and burden for people. A thirst for those that need this message of truth. A thirst for the unloved, the misunderstood, the sick, the poor, the rich, those with too little and even those with too much. A thirst for those with life issues, colorful histories, hurts and scars of previous battles and trials. A thirst for those that have never fit in, for those with low self esteem, high self esteem and those with no self esteem. A thirst for everyone that has not walked through the door of the "ark of safety", Christ Jesus. The Church must become thirsty for altars that are full, baptisms that take all day, new member classes that never stop, bible studies that lead to more, and doors that never close –thirsty for "the world's people" like the old children's song goes, "any color and shape any size" God loves people.

The result of this kind of thirst? Bigger buildings, more services, discipleship, deeper roots in the community, blessings, the unmerited favor of God, and so much more.

For God so loved this world, that He gave His only begotten son… Jn. 3:16 The love that cost him everything. A ridiculously high price to quench His thirst. His thirst for a people.

Dear Lord – Let me become thirsty for the things that you thirsted for. Let me love souls. Let me love the church, locally and globally. Let me be a willing vessel of honor that you are willing to use. Develop this driving thirst in my heart, mind and soul! Let nothing less than the winds of Pentecost be the quenching agent!

Blessings,

Pastor

Day 7 of 30 Days of Thirst at GTPC…

2010-03-11T09:28:00.001-06:00

First, let me encourage you to stay connected and participate in this 30 Days of Thirst. It will make a difference in your life! I can't encourage you strongly enough to start first in the sacrifice department. We will begin our time of fasting and increased prayer Sunday. Then on Tuesday nights make it a priority to join us in prayer at the church from 6:30 - 7:30 for focused prayer. Sunday will begin our corporate Daniel's Fast. While most of the church will participate in this, it is also understood that some for various reasons cannot. If you can't be a part of the Daniel's fast, please endeavor a fast of some type. If you need help with an alternate fasting plan, contact me and I will help you.

Day 7 –

Thirsty for relationship.

Webster defines relationship as the state of affairs between two parties – the connection – a romantic or passionate attachment.

Too often things become mundane and ordinary that should be passionate. The relationship that Christ afforded us by Calvary's blood should never be mundane. It should be exactly the opposite. It should be full of passion!

Most experts tell people that are looking to accomplish something to first recognize why they don't already have it. Once you identify why you don't have it, or have accomplished that goal you move toward changing it.

So why don't we have as passionate relationship with Jesus Christ as he wants us to have with him? It is often said perception is reality. While in some cases I agree with this, it is not an absolute fact. Our perception can easily be wrong, especially considering our influences. Wrong perceptions do not equal reality.

The passion that is felt when we first came to Jesus and He washed our sins away and filled us with His spirit, is overwhelming. As the days and weeks turn into months and years, that passion can dull if we are not careful. Like any other relationship, it takes TWO to keep things balanced. Since Jesus Christ does not change, that leaves us looking in the mirror of self examination. John would write in the book of Revelation, that God held something against the church – they forsook, or left their "First Love". (Revelation 2:1-7)

Let us be very careful to guard our relationship with Jesus Christ. To keep it passionate. To never leave it. To never allow worldly influences to change our perception of whom He is. He is still the great "I AM" – the lover of our souls. Life's hurts, heart aches, disappointments, trials and troubles do not affect God's power and authority or His passion toward us. He is forever faithful and truly just as close as the mention of His name.

Ask yourself this question this morning; is your attachment to Jesus Christ and The Church he paid for a "passionate attachment"? Passionate attachments don't easily fade. They work until its right!

Get thirsty for a more passionate relationship with The Lord Jesus. He will not deny you. It's His desire for you to be as close to Him as you are willing to get!

Thirsty for him,

Pastor

Day 6 of 30 Days of Thirst at GTPC…

2010-03-10T08:36:00.001-06:00

Thirsty for Unity.

I have preached and taught on this powerful subject many, many times. Scripture shows us time and time again the power of a unified people. World history teaches the same lesson. Why is it so hard then for this "post modern" church to enjoy the benefits of real unity? Real unity brings real revival, real blessings, real power, and real results!

Satan hates spiritual unity. Hell took its most devastating blow when 120 dedicated, faithful saints put their agendas on hold, got focused on Jesus, became obedient and unified – The Church was born! The ushering in of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost birthed The Church. The power of unity has not changed. Hell knows this. Hell hates a unified Jesus loving people. Satan will stop short of nothing to arrest unity in its tracks on the path to Pentecost. Let us recall there were 500 that stood with Jesus and received the call to unity. 380 lost out. 120 paid the price, unified, and felt the winds of Pentecost blow across their soul!

I have been a pastor long enough to recognize the tactical forces that Satan uses against The Church. Every time a fresh vision and determination is born in my heart so are fresh weapons in hell's armory. When I feel the need to call for fasting and prayer and a fresh wind on consecration to blow over our souls, hell gets angry. We can count on an attack.

We at GTPC have embarked on this 30 Days of Thirst journey – Countdown to Easter. This journey will yield great results if we can stay in UNITY. Unity is key to great results. Nothing can stop us when we come into a spirit of unity. Our enemy is not one another, our family or friends – our enemy is dis-unity and spirits that cause division. Let us not fall prey to these tactics. When the opportunity arises (and it will) to find fault, be critical or simply "feel" discouraged – reject it and whisper that name that is above every name, JESUS! Begin to thank God for your church, your brothers and sisters, your opportunity, your pastor, and all the blessings God has given you. Try it, it works!

Unity isn't always easy. It will cost you, but the reward is WORTH it.

Are you thirsty for unity?

Get so thirsty for unity that you can't do without it.

Get so thirsty for unity that you are earnestly praying one for another.

Get so thirsty for unity that you are willing to prefer another's feelings over your own.

Get so thirsty for unity that nothing else can quench that God given desire for heavenly results.

Get so thirsty for unity that no Hell designed wedge can muster a position in your life.

Get so thirsty for unity that God's divine blessings must follow liberally.

Simply GET THIRSTY for unity – and it will follow!

Blessings!

Pastor

Day 5 of 30 Days of Thirst!

2010-03-10T07:36:00.001-06:00

Following an event even the most competent and able athlete will thirst. Hydration is key; It is key for muscle survival. No one looks on the gold medalist strangely for being thirsty. Thirsty to the point they will seek to quench it even if it means engulfing their head in a cooler of Gatorade! Arrive on the scene of a fire and one of the first things you will notice is hydration stations for fire fighters. Prolonged exposure to the intense heat of the flames is dangerous. These examples could go on. The common thread among them all is this; thirst is the natural end result of exertion. How and with what we choose quench the thirst with is key.

On the spiritual side, the most seasoned Christian has the potential to become dry. The key to our survival too, is learning with what and how to quench the thirst of our soul. Life's struggles and challenges will cause us to become thirsty. What will you quench it with? You will quench it with what you are most thirsty for or with what we can get to with the least amount of effort - generally speaking.

How do we make sure we drink from the fountain of the Lord rather than the things of this world? Crucified flesh is the answer. When you daily keep your spirit right with God, you will keep your flesh crucified and your soul hydrated. The wickedness of this world that can look so good and appealing and even seem like the thing that can "easily" quench your longing is actually designed for your demise.

Let us walk after the Lord and His ways. As we do this we will drink from that faithful fountain that He has provided.

When this world leaves you thirsty, look to Him who is forever faithful in ALL things, both great and small.

Prolonged exposure to the intense heat of Hell's flames is dangerous too - stay hydrated with the Spirit of The Lord! It WORKS!

Blessings!

Pastor

30 Days of Thirst Begins at GTPC, Countdown to Easter!

2010-03-05T11:14:00.001-06:00

Today marks the beginning of our 30 Days of Thirst at GTPC.

It is my earnest prayer that we embark on this journey together in total unity. Unity will bring about spiritual growth. I look forward to this time with you.

Scripture reminds us that there are blessings that those that thirst and hunger after righteousness.

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6

The key to the blessing is becoming truly thirsty for the things of God!

We can all relate to being thirsty. While the last few months we have enjoyed some nice cool temperatures, it won't be long until the "dog days of summer" are upon us. When temperatures soar and the sweltering heat beats on our faces, we tend to realize just how thirsty we can become! Whether to the athlete or to the sedentary, we have all been thirsty at one time or another in our life. There is nothing quite like the feeling of true thirst. When our mouths become dry and parched, the muscles of our body contract in cramps because we are lacking the nutrients and proper hydration that water brings to us. Our bodies are a complex system of organs and tissue and miraculously work together to function and produce life. Without proper hydration, life CAN NOT exist. Our bodies will shut down and die. Harsh but true - we need hydration. The thirst mechanism kicks in and tells us that we must drink, or we are going to be in big trouble!

Our spirit man too will thirst. We will thirst for the things of God. We will long for that missing thing in our life. We are just as much a spiritual being as we are a physical creature. The spiritual soul will live forever and never die. I want to live in His presence both here on earth and in eternity. Because of this, I desire to be blessed! I thirst for the blessings of God! If we do not have proper hydration spiritually we too can lose our life and die...

Humanity often makes a grave mistake. We will try to satisfy the deep longing of our soul with things that are NOT of God or his righteousness. In other words, we know we are missing things in our life but rather than look to God - the creator - we look to the world - the creation for satisfaction. We are all born with a measure of faith. The perfect God ordained portion that will take us from where we are to where He wants us to be! As we exercise the muscle of faith in the spiritual man, thirst is the result!

Over the next thirty days I intend to preach, teach, and encourage that measure of faith within us all. I plan on attacking the wickedness of hell's lies with the GOSPEL TRUTH! I intend on leading us to a place of thirst where the things that have perhaps satisfied you before will not do it this time. It's my hope to lead you to that well that never runs dry and there we will drink of His righteousness and be filled. Won't you come with me? Let's go! Let's go for a drink at the feet of the Master!

Fasting, prayer, dedication, power, anointing, love for others, and unity - Here we come! We are getting THIRSTY!

Blessings to you GTPC!

Pastor

Back to The Basics

2010-01-22T07:28:00.005-06:00

Life is busy. Admittedly, no shocker there.

There are times when this busy lifestyle we lead bleeds over onto the sanctuary place we like to call, The Church. We "rush" to church with tires squealing in the parking lot! Rush to our appointed classes, offices or pews! Rush to the program; then through the program, all while hoping somewhere and sometime to feel the presence of The Lord. Shame on us.

First of all - "The Church" isn't a building or a place we gather to worship. The Church is the body of Christ. The elect. The bride. The redeemed! Humanity filled with the Holy Ghost is THE CHURCH!

Secondly - When we do get to the building it should be a place we should find "Sanctuary" in. The Church should always find an altar that ultimately yields safety, peace and love. Some would ask, Safety? Peace?? Love??? Yes, all three. I must say I am thankful for the spirit of SANCTUARY that GTPC offers! But, we must do BETTER.

I have called for GTPC to get back to the basics of living FOR God by giving Him our VERY best in 2010.

"Good Enough" will not do - we MUST offer him our VERY best. As we endeavor to do this, there are some other things that must be done along the way, they are simply, THE BASICS, and they still work! Programs, music, light shows, coffee bars, book clubs, fashion shows and social hours will never replace the POWER OF PENTECOST! (Acts 2) All those things can be good, enjoyable, inspiring, encouraging and helpful - but they are not what brings Pentecost to the Upper Room... Obedience and Unity brought Pentecost...they are basics!

- LIVE in The Spirit! You are called to LIVE for God - not die! Stop trying to survive on yesterday's revivals and experiences. Seek a FRESH touch from The Lord. You will find He is MORE than ready to touch, bless, heal and encourage you! Paul wrote, "Stir up the Spirit within you..." This will require ACTION on YOUR part!

- Prayer. It Works! Put the altar back in your home and in your life! What ever has stolen the altar's place in your life, get rid of it! Get your altar back! There is POWER at the altar! Prayer WORKS! Complaining does not!

- Study The Word! Pray The Word! Live The Word! - It Works! Heb 4:12 For the word of God is QUICK, and POWERFUL, and SHARPER than any two edged SWORD, piercing even to the dividing asunder of SOUL and SPIRIT, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The Church is only as powerful as it's dependency on the bread of life! Sometimes when we have lived for God for a long time we can lapse into thinking it's OK to rest on what we "know" and loose the need to know more! It seems to me it's now out of character anymore to bring our bibles to church, after all there's a screen for you... or for regular scripture memorization? Ouch...I know, I know this isn't going to be very popular, but I do know this - IT WORKS!

- Fasting! It works! Jesus himself told his disciples (Mk 9:29) And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

- Your Personal Testimony - It works! Use it! There is only one, it's yours. No one else can communicate exactly what God has done for you and for your life like YOU can. He gave to you YOUR testimony to bring Him glory. Are you? No program or anything else replaces the need and effectiveness of personal evangelism!

- Obedience is still better than sacrifice! It works!

- Unity. Nothing can stop The Church when she STAYS in unity and fervent prayer.

Notice none of these things call for a cool looking bar stool in the middle of a stage with some swirly colorful light show and a cup of coffee... Nor does it call for a pulpit in a grand cathedral. What it does REQUIRE is real, honest, fervent RELATIONSHIP with Jesus Christ - An Old Fashioned PENTECOST if you will...

Yes, back to the basics - The Acts 2 Message and Method - still works -still yields evangelism, still changes lives and is still necessary! These simple things still WORK! Let's get back to them as fast and as quickly as we possibly can.

I know I will take some heat for this post and that's okay. I'm not saying we need to get out the horse and buggies, shut down our websites and stop e-mailing and the like - I am saying let it all have it's rightful place! Rightful being the keyword. Use media, use outreach programs, use media - but let's not forget to use the first things that work FIRST. This old ship has come along way - she's battle scarred and maybe a little weary and a little rough around the edges, but she's still sea worthy and she will land safely!

Preachers, teachers, pastors and evangelists - PREACH truth and PREACH it UNCOMPROMISING.

Miracles, signs and wonders STILL follow them that believe!

It's Winter Time and It's Cold Outside!

2010-01-05T10:00:00.003-06:00

I have been meaning to buy a new pair of gloves since a named brother-in-law, Shawn, borrowed mine several years ago and never returned them. Of course that speaks volumes as to how much one really needs gloves when you live in Houston. Regardless, I began the search at Ross. I didnt want to brave a mall or really pay alot for gloves since I rarely use them. With temeratures to be in the 20's a few times in the next several days and the possibility of ice and sleet on Thursday, this was the time. Ross had no gloves. TJ Maxx had no gloves. Palais Royal had no gloves. Kohl's had no gloves. Accross the way to good old WalMart; no gloves. Did everyone anticipate this "blizzard" but me? I had to get a couple of quick things from Kroger. There near the door was a rack of scarf's and gloves. Granted the gloves werent the best of quality and while the price wasnt a high one it was more than I wanted to pay for those gloves. In other words, I didnt really choose them as much as the need for them did. I dont mind the cold weather. I do mind cold hands and feet. Thankfully both can be remedied fairly easily. Socks and gloves usually do the trick.

What about a cold heart? During heart surgeries (and some others) a sterile ice slurry is used to slow the organ down. This ice slurry is applied directly to the heart. The heart muscle responds to the cold temperatures and will eventually stop beating.

Cold spiritual climates and temperatures can lend them selves to heart failure. There isnt a sock, or a pair of gloves designed to keep your heart warm. The way to prevent spiritual hypothermia is to stay close to the source. The flames of God's spirit will keep you in order! The fire of the Holy Ghost MUST be present in the life of the child of God. When it is absent, the heart grows cold, the muscle weakens, the contractions arent effective and death will ultimately occur.

How long has it been since you have warmed up to the roaring fire of the Holy Ghost?

Stay warm!

js

Did We Miss It?

2010-01-02T14:55:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving was great. Lots of good food. A time to really reflect on all we have been blessed with. The first official time to really slow down and sort of take in the beauty of the season. This year we were even blessed with cool temperatures and real fall like weather. By the end of November people are anxious to get on to December and the rest of “The Holidays”. After all, the shopping malls and stores were already slipping in winter decorations and Christmas ads as early as September.
Black Friday. A newer term we have come to use. The Friday following Thanksgiving day. Some loose all their senses during this mad rush to “shop ‘til they drop”. Then came December 1. Rush. Hurry. Planning. Parties. Events.
Christmas Eve. What happened to the Holidays? What happened to Thanksgiving? The month of December? We rushed. We shopped. We hurried. We “celebrated”. Did we miss it? Just one more day…
Christmas Day. Woke up to a beautiful day. Clear skies. Cool temperatures. Lots of activity, but did we miss it?
December 26. Relief? Exhaustion? Satisfaction? Dread? Regret? A day of mixed emotions. Relief “it’s” over. Exhausted from all of the work of “it”. Satisfaction that we pulled “it” off? Dread of packing up the tree, lights, decorations, return lines? Regretting not making time to see the ones we really wanted to see? Spending more than we intended? Not getting exactly what we wanted? Did we miss it?
New Year’s Eve. December 31, the last chance to get all things done in 2009. A time to celebrate. Another party. For me, another birthday. I really do not enjoy them. I try. I just never have, even as a kid – getting older was just not something I look forward to. Must hurry. Lot’s to do. Did we miss it?
New Year’s Day. The first day of a new year. A new decade. Another celebration dinner. Perhaps another notch in the belt? Another opportunity to reflect. To resolve! To “change”. To do things differently – better of course. A New Year – A New Me! A New Me? Yet, still a looming question somewhere – Did we miss it?
January 2nd 2010 – A quiet resolve – No, I didn’t miss it. I have it. I’ve always had it. We may have lost focus on “it” for a little while – but no, I didn’t miss it. In the hustle and bustle of it all – we managed to keep Jesus Christ the center of who we are. Satan lost again. We helped others. We loved. We reached out. We gave. We were Christians. Be encouraged, you won, AGAIN!
The spirit of the world and the wickedness of it would have you think you have missed it. That same spirit would have you feel less accomplished than you like and would have you questioning things you should never question. You have NOT missed HIM!
Jesus Christ a friend that sticks closer than a brother. Your salvation, your healer, your way-maker, your deliverer, your hope, your peace, your shield and tower is right there with you. He is ready to not only see you through this New Year – but to bless you IN the New Year. His desire is to be closer to you than you have ever been before.
I’m glad we haven’t missed it! I’m glad I have another chance tomorrow to make a difference. There will only be ONE “Inaugural Sunday” for this New Year and New Decade. There will only be one First Sunday of 2010. January 3, 2010 is it. Don’t miss it! Don’t miss it! Don’t miss it! Be in Worship Service tomorrow morning and bless the Blesser of Your Soul! Happy New Year & Congratulations, you didn’t miss it!

A watchman on a wall vs. The Watchman on Your wall…

2009-12-28T03:42:00.001-06:00

It has been sometime since I have sat down and felt instructed to write to you. Tonight, I find myself with a burning message on my heart. Please read it.

Isaiah 21:11 "Watchman, watchman what of the night?

2009 is quickly drawing to a close. 2010 will be here sooner than many of us realize. Times continue to change at a more rapid pace than ever before. I have identified one thing has not changed, can't change and will never change - everyone needs a watchman for their soul.

Now that you have read this far, I challenge you to keep reading. Be forewarned, I offer this to you with great intent. I intend to do one of two things. I intend to either challenge your thought process on this subject or to solidify and reinforce it. I intend to not leave this a gray area. It must be clear.

Initial salvation is only the beginning of your relationship with God. I am careful and quick to instruct new babies in Christ on this very important topic that so many others don't. We are terribly foolish to think, the moment we come to God and He fills us with His spirit that we have reached the spiritual climax of our lives. It is not! You are now saved, not mature. Numeric age does not qualify you for maturity. Just because your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life, does not mean you are a qualified author. Jesus Christ is both the author and finisher of your faith. You have simply and beautifully begun a journey with him. Like a child is born naturally and must learn to walk and talk, to eat – so is the spiritual birth. There are some things you must learn. Some things you will learn quickly. Others may take repeated stumbles and falls. Get up. Keep going. Live for God and learn something from it.

If you are now asking yourself, what does this have to do with the title? Read on.

While we are truly the Family of God, we are also peers. We share many common things. On this subject I could write much more, but for now, I will not. One thing we ALL share; whether man or woman. Young or old. Mature or immature. Pew or pulpit. Married or unmarried. Rich or poor. Healthy or ill. Black, white or other – we ALL must have a watchman on the wall of our soul. Have you ever really considered this? Perhaps you have never even heard this, or maybe only in passing, or a brief reference in a service – and you never really grasped what was being said.

As a pastor I have learned to be a student again. There is much to be learned if we are willing to.

God has made great provision for His people. (For every question, He is the answer. For every problem, He is the solution, The source and The power. Never forget this.)

One of the provisions God made for you and I, is a watchman. He has placed a man in your life to labor for you by watching out for your soul. When God purchased your life with his blood you became a vessel of value. Everything you own and hold dear is precious to God because HE purchased it! Because he values all these things – he has placed a guard there to protect them! To make battle on your behalf. To help ward off the enemy of your soul as well as countless other things you may never know or really have the ability to fully appreciate; yet still, on your wall stands a watchman…

There is a HUGE difference between "A watchman on a wall" and "The watchman on YOUR wall".

Are you taking full advantage of the provision God has made for you? A watchman on a wall is simply "someone" on a wall "someplace" watching out for "something" for "someone else". The contrast to a nameless watchman is YOUR watchman. Now a relationship is required. This relationship must be guarded. It must be protected. It at times may even need defending. Do it.

Let's look at the duty of the watchman. The watchman is responsible for keeping an ever open eye on the borders and perimeters of your life and all things that approach! Walls are good. Walls are necessary. Walls aren't meant to keep you confined. You can do anything you want to do. Your relationship with God should be determining your wants… Walls are to ensure safety from your enemies! Walls are for the protection and fortification of your sou! (Show me a man or woman who doesn't want walls of protection and I'll show you a man or woman who is on a slippery slope headed in a direction far away from Calvary)

The watchman must not blink. The watchman can't assume. The watchman can't be subtle. The watchman is not called to be popular, friendly or compromising. The watchman must be diligent and not afraid to sound alarms, ring bells and draw attention to – your enemies. The watchman is not a hired hand. The watchman is God's manifest hand in the life of His people. The watchman is for the CONTINUED salvation of your soul. The watchman is not about "right now", he is about right always. The watchman is about eternity. The watchman is not about situations, circumstances, trials or blessings – he is about being ever present with an eye stayed on your well being.

Are you getting a little clearer picture now?

The watchman God has placed on your wall must never be casual or lukewarm. He should never be handled – God does a good job at this and does not need our assistance in these arenas. The watchman has been God called, ordained and commissioned for this tour of duty. Make no mistake about it, He is FOR you!

No one really likes to admit to the need for this watchman. Often times he is obtrusive, offensive, loud, challenging, stubborn, strong willed and uncompromising to your plight, yet still, there is a great need for him. Many times his greatest challenge and struggles are not even with the ravenous wolves – he can put them to flight with the blood of Christ. The watchman's greatest challenges can be with the ones he is called to protect. What happens when the protected ones cease to want protection?

Scripture gives many examples as to the role of the Man of God in your life. Two are, The Watchman and The Shepherd. Both are guardsmen. Both are looking out for what is best for those they are protecting. Understand this now. What is best is not always popular or well received, it does however remain, BEST. There are fun practices and there are best practices. Both yield outcomes of stark difference.

Can you now see the difference in the generic term - a watchman and The Watchman? A watchman requires no relationship. The Watchman demands one. A few paragraphs ago I mentioned I became a student again when I became a pastor. One thing I had to learn again was, deep down people do WANT a shepherd watching out for them. Humanity (you and I) desire a personal connection to God. All too often we "allow" our pastor to fill this roll in times of convenience and need. In other words when we need comforting and solace – we want God close to us. When we need, but don't recognize the need for correction and reproof; what about then? The role has not changed. His posture and stance has not been altered – he remains the same. It is here and now we foolishly attempt to handle God's elect. We begin to delegate where and just how much we will allow God to have place in our everyday life.

A couple of months ago, I felt impressed of the Lord to go to a couple of different people and have them literally lay their heads on my shoulder. While doing this the Lord had me speak into their lives. He had me to tell them to lean, rest and rely on a shepherd. I have since done this on four separate occasions. Each time, more and more powerful and with a clear purpose. People must know one of the signs of God's love in their life, is the role of The Watchman. I challenge your spirit today. Open your heart to the active leading role of The Watchman! The prophet Ezekiel had this to say in chapter 3:17-19

"Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me.

When I say to a wicked man, `You will surely die,' and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood.

But if you do warn the wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness or from his evil ways, he will die for his sin; but you will have saved yourself."

Your watchman understands the message I have written tonight is not a popular one. It will not garner new friends nor will it make everyone that reads it a "happy camper". It is however a very necessary message in these last days.

Don't handle the Man of God in your life. Don't treat God's blessings as common or ordinary. They are exceptional and beautiful; divine in nature and holy by design.

The next time YOUR watchman stands on YOUR wall and sounds a warning, speaks a word, gives instruction, or attempts to guide – stop what you are doing, point your heart toward Calvary's cross line up and receive it. Don't get mad. Don't start looking for a new church. Don't look for faults in others. Don't seek out an escape goat. Simply be thankful for one of God's greatest gifts!

When asked, "Watchman, watchman, what of the night?" I want to be alert, awake, aware, and ready with a good report, "Lord, these walls are safe!"

Happiness

2009-08-27T14:55:00.005-05:00

I received an e-mail today from someone very close to my family, whom we love and, appreciate more than words can express. The e-mail she sent is below. It blessed me. I trust it will bless you. Dance…

[I was walking around in a store while on my lunch break. It was foolish of me, I know because whenever I get depressed I go shopping, but "Hallaylouyer" anyhow! Anyway, even though I am trying to be positive, I was a wee little depressed. It has been a rough summer for me, financially and otherwise, you know... So as I was moping around the store I looked down and saw a picture that said:

"Happiness: Those who say only sunshine brings Happiness, have never danced in the rain."

I almost cried. I never know what to do when problems arise. I maintain my dignity and I love God "anyway". I praise Him for all the wonderful things He has done. I stay faithful. But when it rains, sometimes (most times) I sit inside and look out the windows and wish it would all just go away. The day feels so wasted.
Not anymore. I am choosing to kick off my socks and shoes and dance in the rain. I am choosing to grab my daughters hand and take her outside with me and show her that this rain wasn't in vain. The plants will grow, the grass will grow, and the flowers will bloom, once the rain has passed. But in the meantime, look how much fun it is to dance in the rain! It is NOT the end of everything, but the beginning of new things!
Phew! I feel so much better! God loves me so much!]

I responded to her e-mail as best I could, embracing humility, and agreed. Without the rain – there will be no blossoms – DANCE!

Letter to GTPC Family - 2009 Fall Harvest of Love

2009-08-25T10:34:00.002-05:00

Good Tuesday Morning Church Family:

Please read this entire e-mail. Yes, I know its long - but its important and most importantly it is meant to bless you! For those without e-mail, this will be printed and available in the foyer of the church tonight. For those of you that can, print this and give it to family members that don't have e-mail access.

Some time ago I felt really impressed to lead us in another time of focused prayer, fasting and dedication. As it has been said and evidenced, the spiritual climate of the church is changing. Our temperature is rising! God is blessing. The church is growing. People are becoming more and more faithful. This IS this will of God!

Forty Days of Purpose prior to Easter in the Spring had an impacting effect on us. Tuesday night prayer meetings were started and CONTINUE! Many were baptized and received The Holy Ghost. The church body unified! We were blessed... The Summer presented challenges as well as blessings. The Fall season is now upon us. School has started. The calendar is full for the remainder of the year. Much is "going on"; however we need to make sure all that is happening is being tempered by The Holy Ghost. This will turn basic success into GREAT success!

September - October

"2009 Fall Harvest of Love"

This month of dedication will lead us into a time of both revival and evangelism. We will begin an extended revival with evangelist Shane Creekmore beginning Saturday Night October 24th and will run through November 29th. The schedule as it stands now will be Saturday Night and Sunday Morning for six weeks. There is no telling the results God will pour into this effort! The Wednesday nights of these weeks, I will be the evangelist! There will be no series taught during these six weeks, rather 100% evangelistic services! Please mark your calendars NOW and plan on being a major part of these great meetings.

Kick Off Prayer Rally - Tuesday Night September 1st 6:30 - 7:30
This will not be the Family Prayer Night as usual - this will be a prayer service and you don't want to miss out. All hands on deck!
Prayerfully prepare & bring a written prayer list with you to this service. We will anoint and cover these lists with prayer. You will take them back home with you and pray over them at least daily and as often as you can. We will believe God for an Apostolic move. By the end of the revival - we are expecting to see these requests filled!
Special "PRAYER FORCE" Teams will be established. We SHALL shake Hell's gates with the fervency of prayer.
Special "Days of The Fast" will be established for these 30 days.
During this service EVERYONE is needed to be there - children too! We are going to blanket GTPC with the POWER of PRAYER!
I am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for our church during this special season dedicated to growth with purpose!

Blessings, Love and Prayers,

Pastor

The Weekend Report

2009-08-24T16:31:00.002-05:00

This weekend has been busy, just like most are for us. Friday night was the Houston Metro West Sectional Back to School Youth Rally, hosted at GTPC. Then dinner afterwards with our good friends, the Creekmores. Saturday evening and night was spent bowling "50's Style" with the church family. We do these types of events as often as possible to promote unity and growth among the church family. They work! When the bowling was through some of us headed over to the 59 Diner and had more fun. We are very thankful for all that God is doing for us and among us.

Sundays at Gospel Truth Pentecostal Church (GTPC) are always a source of strength and encouragement. This week served no different! The adult Bible class was a reminder of God's ultimate authority and ability to answer by fire! The prophet Elijah was faithful before King Ahab. To the bystanders it seemed as though Elijah was all alone. He was not. The God of Abraham was with him and victory came with The Fire! I submit to you, when it seems like you are all alone, allow the consuming fire of The Holy Ghost to comfort you; HE will! Miracles, signs and wonders follow them that believe!

The Worship service was incredible. The momentum of the bible class fueled a continued yearning to be in His presence. The music department and praise team did a wonderful job complementing the move. We were charged with making sure our hearts and motives were pure before The Lord. Acts chapter 5, the story of Ananias and his wife Saphira warned us of the dangers of an un-guarded and un-repented heart and the way God can deal with it should He choose to. The altars were full as people turned their hearts toward God. The miracle worker was among us again! I count it such a blessing to be a part of the FAMILY of God!

"LIVING" for God is FUN!

2009-08-23T09:22:00.004-05:00

Last night we celebrated our Family - our church family hosted a Family Fun Night of Bowling "50's Style" and it was a blast! Life offers us seasons. Circumstances change. People are people. There is only one constant is this vast universe, Jesus Christ. Jesus said he came to give us life and life more abundantly! I submit to you this morning we are called to LIVE for God! I want to bash in the head the lie that says living for God is no fun. It's ok to have fun and LIVE for God at the same time. Have fun today!

Getting Started!

2009-08-20T04:53:00.003-05:00

While blogging isn't the newest thing out there in the techno world, I am new to this blogging web site. Like most things new, I find it a little intimidating and foreign. I am sure there will be many tweaks and changes until I find the look that suits me best. Until then I may as well get started. With that; here goes!

I have blogged via MySpace and to our church by e-mail on many occasions. Those occasions almost always surround an event, or something of some significance that calls for a little more attention than usual. This first entry will be a little random. I can already sense it! If you are taking the time to read this, I owe you a few things:

First, I owe you my thanks. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy life to stop by and take a peek. While I'm not sure what drew your attention this direction, I am glad your'e here - so thanks!

Secondly, I owe you some good news! I have never gotten the concept of bringing people to a site and then bashing them on the head like a cyber game of Wac-A-Mole. If that is what you are looking for, you will be sorely disappointed and you may as well move on, as to avoid any further disappointments. I think if you have the chance to grab someones attention for a little while in the midst of their day - be an encourager and a blessing. Give someone what the "world" typically does not. Give someone an opportunity to smile, to chuckle, and be reminded of God's love for them. In other words, be a blessing. The world has tried "beating" you up all day - stop by here for a band-aid!

Finally, I owe you an advanced apology! I am not perfect. I am human. This blog will not consume me. If you know me personally, or if you took the time to read the "About Me" blurb you know I'm married, have three children and pastor a growing church - these things are my main focus - and will remain so. I hope to keep this page updated as often as I am able. With that, I apologize in advance for this blog not always being just perfectly what you are looking for or expecting - just forgive me and send a little love our way and I'll try to do my best.

Now here goes. This blog will be a shotgun pattern of sorts. It took me the longest time to come up with a title. Finally I settled on, A Pastor's Passion & A Daddy's Heartbeat. There are things as a Pastor I am passionate about. There are things as a daddy I am passionate about as well. The two roles can't be separated. I "pastor" with a daddy's heart; or at least I try to.

There will be posts about my family. With a 13, 7 and 3 year old in the house - the dull moment is rare.

There will be posts, stories, events and "series" related to Gospel Truth (http://www.gtpc.cc/) - the dull moment around GTPC is even more rare!

There will be the occasional "random" post that will most likely leave you scratching your head and saying, "What is he talking about?"

In the end - it is my desire for you to leave with a smile on your face and perhaps a little more encouraged than before.

Once I am more familiar with the workings of the postings, I will post pictures and video clips - all in an effort to bless you, even if just a little.

Until then, thanks again for stopping by!

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