If I Die before I wake....

Philippians 2:16-18
16 Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17 But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18 Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.

I've been learning lately that the decisions i make everyday not only effect me but all those around me as well. If i have a bitter attittude, others will be effected by my choice to act that way. In chapter 2 12-15 of Philipians, Paul thanks the people of Philipi for following his instruction thus far in living as children of light, honoring God and others by that pure and innocent lifestyle. But then at verse 16 it almost seems like he switches directions and starts talking about Christ's return, service and offering.

So I asked myself why would Paul talk about living as children of light, and then start talking about rejoicing in losing his life and offering it to God?

I came to this....By living as children of God, being a witness to others by our lifestyle, attitudes, and speech we leave the impression of something different than this world is so used to.....we offer ourselves, we give up our rights. We can't help but live each day, and others can't help but notice. So what I think Paul was saying is that even when Christ returns, even if we do lose our life we have the power leave a legacy for others to follow, learn, and live by. Even if we die, we have lived for purpose and truth in service to Christ. Giving the Life that was given to us, back to Him as an offering. So rejoice in this, that everyday we have the choice to live for Him and make a difference.

You dont have to be a prophet, pastor, great teacher or evangelist to live a life that reflects Christ. We all have the power to live a life that shows our love for Him.

"Minister the Gospel daily, when necessary use words"

All Of The Above

Its the feeling when not everything is perfect
But life couldn't get much better
Its the adrenaline that drives
And the reality that settles

Its standing in the rain
And not caring that I'm drenched
Its a significant thirst
That waits to be quenched

Its the feeling when God is in control
and that He made me for such a time
Its looking back from where I came
And knowing I followed every sign

Its falling facedown
Simply amazed
Its rising above reason
and accepting it that way

Its the feeling that is so much more
than a feeling in itself
Its intangible
its an inner wealth

Its embracing each day
to prepare for the next
Its anticipating the future
Learning from yesterdays wreck

Its like waiting for Christmas
In the beginnings of March
and knowing my amazing gift
before winter even starts

Its something so complex
Yet something so sure
It knows no regret
And was made so pure

So many have tried to define it
So many have had success
So many have recieved it
So many have also expressed

But none have come closer
to its fullness and core
Than the maker Himself
Christ Jesus our Lord

One day I'll define it
But until that day comes
The only way to describe it
Is all of the above

The Art of Breaking

Ok so i apologize for not updating since forever, but i think i finally can do this.
Im currently just sittin in my car in the parking lot at the church and decided to finally blog about the good, the bad, and the ugly in my life.

Lets start with the bad and ugly....since my last blog i am still a sinner(shocker huh?) and still need a lot of discipline as far as school and my daily attitude goes..although there has been alot of growth, my desire is to never be satisfied or become comfortable with where i am spiritually, mentally, and even physically. My desire is to press forward in every aspect of life.

Ok the good....i cant begin to describe the amazing things that God is doing in my life.....seriously....i cant. lol Lately ive been praying that i would choose to grow everyday in the decisions, actions, and words that i say. That i would not pray to be a successful leader or man of God "someday". but that i would take each day to be a success, and take each moment to mold and shape who i will be for tomorrow. By change and discipline i pray that everyday i would build my strengths and work out my weaknesses. Its so exciting to realize that everyday i have the chance to improve who i am; my character,personality,gifts,and relations with others and with God. The steps i take today will lead me to where i'll be tomorrow. My desire is to take steps forward and to be in continuous motion, even when it gets hard and to use the help of others that want to see me succeed. God is up to something amazing, and with all this intense preparation and growth i can only expect the best from Him. He is so good.

I encourage ya'll to do the same. Never become comfortabe with your relationship with God or ministry, make every effort to find a deeper love. Even when it changes all that we know or all we have been doing all our lives, its the art of breaking complacency, and the choice to pursue an intimate growing relationship with our God.

Love ya guys and i'll try to keep ya updated :)