We serve an awesome and amazing God. His hand is mighty and is still moving in our midst today. His desire to glorify himself through his people is unchanging, and I love to see him accomplish his purposes through us.
God honored himself, even in this difficult economic times, yesterday at HGBC. In February 2007 we launched phase one of our "Rebuilding the Walls" campaign. We launched this campaign because we believed then, and still do, that God wants to do something amazing in and through HGBC. Phase one was to eliminate the debt still remaining on our family life center. At that time we still owed about $254,000.00. We took pledges and began the journey to eliminate the debt as quickly as possible. I challenged the church to pay it off in 52 weeks (it took Nehemiah 52 days to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem). Although we didn't accomplish that goal we did pay it off this past week. I praise the Lord that he has blessed us so much in this area.
HGBC, I am so proud of you for keeping to the task and not stopping until we reached the goal. WAY TO GO!
Now it is time to move forward with phases 2 and 3 of our "Rebuilding the Wall" campaign. Phase 2 will be to continue giving so that we can set aside about $30,000.00 for maintenance purposes. We must be good stewards of the facilities God has blessed us with. This money will be used only for the purpose of upkeep and repairs that need to be taken care of. The building and grounds committee along with the Steward committee are preparing a list and schedule to follow.
Phase 3 in the campaign will be to raise about $300,000.00 to renovate the old sanctuary so that we can move our worship service back over there. This will allow us to use the family life center on a more consistent basis for what it was built for. I am so excited that God has done what he has done for HGBC. I am even more excited about what God is doing and the things on the horizon. Let's commit to keeping our eyes on Jesus and following to the end.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Monday, March 01, 2010
Ministry Fair
I am declaring our ministry fair at HGBC last Sunday morning a success. I believe that the members left with a better understanding of all that we do to minister within and outside the "walls" of our church. I heard a lot of positive comments about it. I pray that we will serve with greater diligence and determination because of it. I heard someone once say, "Information is power." We have good/great information, so if that is true, we are very powerful. Let's us our "power" in obedience to the Lord Jesus by serving others. Let's make sure that everything we do has an "outward" focus and vision. Let's reach the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. As David Burton often says, "It's only good news if they hear it in time."
Friday, February 19, 2010
Buckets of Hope for Haiti
I want to encourage you to participate in the "Buckets of Hope" for Haiti. You can find all the information you need at the Florida Baptist Convention website. For less than $40 you can provide a bucket of hope for a family in Haiti. We have 50 buckets with lids at HGBC, first come first serve. Fill with ONLY the content listed, and tape $10 bucks in an envelope on the lid. They will pick them up on March 15 at the church.
www.flbaptist.org.
www.flbaptist.org.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Be The Church
Well I have been preaching a series of messages entitled "Be the Church" from Acts 2:42-47. We have been looking at the five purposes of the church found there. "What is church?" Church is a place you go or something you do would be the normal response, but I believe Scripture teaches us that that is wrong. Church is who we, Christians, are. We are to "BE THE CHURCH."
We accomplish this through discipling others, evangelizing others, worshiping God with others, fellowshipping with others, and doing ministry or serving others. Did you pick up on anything right there? Fulfilling the purpose of the church, fulfilling the mission of the church means that we must have a "vision" which allows us too. God wants us to have to people captivate our vision and focus. 1) The Lord Jesus Christ must captivate our vision, if we see anyone or anything else before Him we will have missed it completely. 2) We must be captured by "others." Our vision will always be upside down and blurry if we look inwardly (look at a spoon), but if our vision has an outward focus we will see everything right-side-up and crystal clear.
HGBC BE THE CHURCH 2010
We accomplish this through discipling others, evangelizing others, worshiping God with others, fellowshipping with others, and doing ministry or serving others. Did you pick up on anything right there? Fulfilling the purpose of the church, fulfilling the mission of the church means that we must have a "vision" which allows us too. God wants us to have to people captivate our vision and focus. 1) The Lord Jesus Christ must captivate our vision, if we see anyone or anything else before Him we will have missed it completely. 2) We must be captured by "others." Our vision will always be upside down and blurry if we look inwardly (look at a spoon), but if our vision has an outward focus we will see everything right-side-up and crystal clear.
HGBC BE THE CHURCH 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Thank God for Florida and Arkansas Baptists
Haiti Update, January 19, 2010 - From Dr. John Sullivan
Subject: The Miracle of Multiplication
The Biblical miracle of the fishes and loaves had a modern day twist for the Florida Baptist Convention when it made an initial purchase of 21 tons of rice for use in Haiti relief efforts. An Arkansas Baptist church's matching gift of rice has multiplied the initial commitment into a total 84 tons of rice being earmarked for Haiti.
This miracle of multiplication started on Friday, January 15, when Executive Director John Sullivan negotiated to purchase 42,000 pounds of rice from a grain distributor in Stuttgart, Arkansas. Sullivan negotiated for a low price of $20 per hundred pound bag. With the deal confirmed, the Convention arranged to send one of its disaster relief semi-trailer units to Stuttgart to take delivery of the rice. On Monday, January 18, a second order was placed for another 21 tons of rice for delivery at the end of February.
On Tuesday, January 19, Sullivan received a call from Pastor Sam Roberts of the First Baptist Church, Stuttgart, Arkansas, who had learned of the Convention's purchase and planned use of the rice. He told of the church's mission committee authorization to purchase 42 tons of rice to supplement the Convention's commitment to feed Haitians. The combined purchase and donation brings the total commitment to 84 tons or 168,000 pounds of rice which will be distributed in Haiti as soon as possible.
Sullivan noted that the average Haitian subsists on a quarter cup of rice each day. He went on to observe that every Baptist can be a part of the Haiti relief effort by sending $20 to buy a one hundred pound bag of rice. "That one bag of rice will feed a family of four for a long time in Haiti," he explained.
Once the grain is delivered in Haiti, distribution of the rice will occur from the many Haitian Baptist churches in and around Port au Prince. Florida Baptists' 15 years of partnership and assistance provided to Haitian Baptists has resulted in a model effort to distribute food and clothing without the chaos experienced at government-controlled food distribution points.
On another developing front in the effort to aid Haitians, the U. S. government is preparing to airlift orphans and other Haitian refugees from Port au Prince to Miami. According to the Miami Herald, federal agencies are gearing up under an existing crisis plan called "Operation Vigilant Sentry," drawn up in 2003 to help prepare for any mass migration from the Caribbean. Miami-Dade officials are looking at housing the refugees in the currently closed Krome Detention Center in West Miami-Dade and the old Baptist hospital facility in Kendall.
The influx of refugees will present a unique ministry opportunity for Florida Baptists in South Florida. As a result, the Convention has directed its Church and Community Ministries personnel, led by Marc Johnston, to begin developing action plans to assist in receiving, processing and re-settlement of these Haitian refugees.
Details are few given that the situation is very fluid. However, additional information on the Convention's response will be posted on the Convention's website http://www.flbaptist.org/.
Subject: The Miracle of Multiplication
The Biblical miracle of the fishes and loaves had a modern day twist for the Florida Baptist Convention when it made an initial purchase of 21 tons of rice for use in Haiti relief efforts. An Arkansas Baptist church's matching gift of rice has multiplied the initial commitment into a total 84 tons of rice being earmarked for Haiti.
This miracle of multiplication started on Friday, January 15, when Executive Director John Sullivan negotiated to purchase 42,000 pounds of rice from a grain distributor in Stuttgart, Arkansas. Sullivan negotiated for a low price of $20 per hundred pound bag. With the deal confirmed, the Convention arranged to send one of its disaster relief semi-trailer units to Stuttgart to take delivery of the rice. On Monday, January 18, a second order was placed for another 21 tons of rice for delivery at the end of February.
On Tuesday, January 19, Sullivan received a call from Pastor Sam Roberts of the First Baptist Church, Stuttgart, Arkansas, who had learned of the Convention's purchase and planned use of the rice. He told of the church's mission committee authorization to purchase 42 tons of rice to supplement the Convention's commitment to feed Haitians. The combined purchase and donation brings the total commitment to 84 tons or 168,000 pounds of rice which will be distributed in Haiti as soon as possible.
Sullivan noted that the average Haitian subsists on a quarter cup of rice each day. He went on to observe that every Baptist can be a part of the Haiti relief effort by sending $20 to buy a one hundred pound bag of rice. "That one bag of rice will feed a family of four for a long time in Haiti," he explained.
Once the grain is delivered in Haiti, distribution of the rice will occur from the many Haitian Baptist churches in and around Port au Prince. Florida Baptists' 15 years of partnership and assistance provided to Haitian Baptists has resulted in a model effort to distribute food and clothing without the chaos experienced at government-controlled food distribution points.
On another developing front in the effort to aid Haitians, the U. S. government is preparing to airlift orphans and other Haitian refugees from Port au Prince to Miami. According to the Miami Herald, federal agencies are gearing up under an existing crisis plan called "Operation Vigilant Sentry," drawn up in 2003 to help prepare for any mass migration from the Caribbean. Miami-Dade officials are looking at housing the refugees in the currently closed Krome Detention Center in West Miami-Dade and the old Baptist hospital facility in Kendall.
The influx of refugees will present a unique ministry opportunity for Florida Baptists in South Florida. As a result, the Convention has directed its Church and Community Ministries personnel, led by Marc Johnston, to begin developing action plans to assist in receiving, processing and re-settlement of these Haitian refugees.
Details are few given that the situation is very fluid. However, additional information on the Convention's response will be posted on the Convention's website http://www.flbaptist.org/.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Who would have thought?
Brit Hume gets support from SBC leader
Posted on Jan 7, 2010 by Erin Roach
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Fox News contributor Brit Hume continues to face sharp criticism for remarks he made about Christianity offering Tiger Woods an opportunity for redemption, but a Southern Baptist leader has expressed support for Hume's comments."In a land that supposedly cherishes freedom of speech, it is interesting to me to see how strongly persons have objected to Brit Hume's comments regarding Tiger Woods and his faith," Frank Page, immediate past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, told Baptist Press."Not only is it ironic that those same persons who trumpet free speech are so soundly criticizing Brit Hume, I want to go on record as saying I am proud of him for speaking the truth of his heart. I am applauding him and agreeing with him," Page, vice president of evangelization at the North American Mission Board, said."I am thankful he had the courage to do what he knew would be politically incorrect, but I also want to say that he spoke the truth and our prayers are with and for Tiger Woods and his family during this very difficult time. In Christ, Tiger Woods can find true redemption, forgiveness and restoration if he and his wife would seek the restoration that Christ can give."During a panel segment on "Fox News Sunday" Jan. 3, Hume said the extent to which Woods can recover personally from revelations of adultery largely depends on his faith."He's said to be a Buddhist. I don't think that faith offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith," Hume said, "so my message to Tiger would be, 'Tiger, turn to the Christian faith and you can make a total recovery and be a great example to the world.'"Various members of the mainstream media quickly rebuked Hume, with one comparing him to an Islamic extremist who violently believes everyone must convert to his specific religion. In an appearance on Fox's "The O'Reilly Factor" Jan. 4, Hume elaborated on his initial comments, saying Woods is a person he has long supported as a golfer and as a man."I've greatly admired him over the years, and I always have said to people that it was the content of his character that made him -- beyond his extraordinary golf skills -- so admirable. Now we know that the content of his character was not what we thought it was," Hume said.Though Woods has lost significant endorsement deals since the infidelity news surfaced, Hume said he suspects that pales in comparison to the price Woods has paid personally, especially in the loss of his family."My sense about Tiger is that he needs something that Christianity especially provides and gives and offers, and that is redemption and forgiveness. I was really meaning to say in those comments yesterday more about Christianity than anything else," Hume said."I mentioned the Buddhism only because his mother is a Buddhist and he has apparently said he is a Buddhist. I'm not sure how seriously he practices that, but I think Jesus Christ offers Tiger Woods something that Tiger Woods badly needs."His point, Hume said, was that if Woods were to make a true conversion to faith in Christ, everyone would know it."It would show through in his being, and he would know it above all. He would feel the extraordinary blessing that that would be, and it would shine because he is so prominent," Hume told Bill O'Reilly. "It would be a shining light, and I think it would be a magnificent thing to witness."In the aftermath of sharing his opinion on the Sunday talk show, Hume said he received correspondence from fellow believers who expressed support, but he also received a significant amount of criticism."I've heard a lot of unfavorable comments from people who claim that I was a pompous jerk who had no business mouthing off on this subject and that I shouldn't have belittled the Buddhist faith and so on," Hume said.When O'Reilly asked why Christianity seems to draw such ire, Hume said it has always puzzled him, but "the Bible even speaks of it, that if you speak the name Jesus Christ -- and I don't mean to make a pun here -- all hell breaks loose.""It is explosive. I didn't even say the name in that way. I simply spoke of the Christian faith, but that was enough to trigger this reaction. It triggers a very powerful reaction in people who do not share the faith and who do not believe in it," Hume said.Wendy Wright, president of Concerned Women for America, said Christianity is "the one belief the tolerant cannot tolerate."Hume "pointed out how Tiger Woods, whose sexual sins have damaged his marriage, family and career, can recover," Wright said. "It is a tried-and-true method with centuries of evidence to back it up. From Saul of Tarsus, who was intent on murdering Christians, to John Newton, captain of a slave ship, to Chuck Colson, Nixon's notorious 'hatchet man,' to millions of others who have committed less egregious transgressions.""Jesus Christ transforms people's lives," Wright said Jan. 5. "Saul became the Apostle Paul. John Newton became a pastor, penned the song 'Amazing Grace' and influenced William Wilberforce to end the slave trade. Chuck Colson went from prisoner to founder of Prison Fellowship, a ministry to the imprisoned."Wright surmised that Hume would not be so viciously criticized if he had claimed the benefits of any other religion or non-religion."It's only when a Christian speaks of the advantages of Christianity that the modern secularist goes into orbit," she said. "No Christian should silence himself from a truth known deep in his soul. Brit Hume is to be commended for his courage to speak up and take the heat. All for a very simple idea -- that God loves us and can turn our broken lives into something better, something we could never have imagined."For those interested in allowing God to turn their lives around, Baptist Press provides information on receiving redemption through Jesus Christ. Just click on the icon in the top left corner of the Baptist Press homepage, bpnews.net. Additional resources are available through the North American Mission Board's website, namb.net, by scrolling to the bottom of the page and clicking on "Tell Me About Jesus."--30--Erin Roach is a staff writer for Baptist Press.
Posted on Jan 7, 2010 by Erin Roach
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Fox News contributor Brit Hume continues to face sharp criticism for remarks he made about Christianity offering Tiger Woods an opportunity for redemption, but a Southern Baptist leader has expressed support for Hume's comments."In a land that supposedly cherishes freedom of speech, it is interesting to me to see how strongly persons have objected to Brit Hume's comments regarding Tiger Woods and his faith," Frank Page, immediate past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, told Baptist Press."Not only is it ironic that those same persons who trumpet free speech are so soundly criticizing Brit Hume, I want to go on record as saying I am proud of him for speaking the truth of his heart. I am applauding him and agreeing with him," Page, vice president of evangelization at the North American Mission Board, said."I am thankful he had the courage to do what he knew would be politically incorrect, but I also want to say that he spoke the truth and our prayers are with and for Tiger Woods and his family during this very difficult time. In Christ, Tiger Woods can find true redemption, forgiveness and restoration if he and his wife would seek the restoration that Christ can give."During a panel segment on "Fox News Sunday" Jan. 3, Hume said the extent to which Woods can recover personally from revelations of adultery largely depends on his faith."He's said to be a Buddhist. I don't think that faith offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith," Hume said, "so my message to Tiger would be, 'Tiger, turn to the Christian faith and you can make a total recovery and be a great example to the world.'"Various members of the mainstream media quickly rebuked Hume, with one comparing him to an Islamic extremist who violently believes everyone must convert to his specific religion. In an appearance on Fox's "The O'Reilly Factor" Jan. 4, Hume elaborated on his initial comments, saying Woods is a person he has long supported as a golfer and as a man."I've greatly admired him over the years, and I always have said to people that it was the content of his character that made him -- beyond his extraordinary golf skills -- so admirable. Now we know that the content of his character was not what we thought it was," Hume said.Though Woods has lost significant endorsement deals since the infidelity news surfaced, Hume said he suspects that pales in comparison to the price Woods has paid personally, especially in the loss of his family."My sense about Tiger is that he needs something that Christianity especially provides and gives and offers, and that is redemption and forgiveness. I was really meaning to say in those comments yesterday more about Christianity than anything else," Hume said."I mentioned the Buddhism only because his mother is a Buddhist and he has apparently said he is a Buddhist. I'm not sure how seriously he practices that, but I think Jesus Christ offers Tiger Woods something that Tiger Woods badly needs."His point, Hume said, was that if Woods were to make a true conversion to faith in Christ, everyone would know it."It would show through in his being, and he would know it above all. He would feel the extraordinary blessing that that would be, and it would shine because he is so prominent," Hume told Bill O'Reilly. "It would be a shining light, and I think it would be a magnificent thing to witness."In the aftermath of sharing his opinion on the Sunday talk show, Hume said he received correspondence from fellow believers who expressed support, but he also received a significant amount of criticism."I've heard a lot of unfavorable comments from people who claim that I was a pompous jerk who had no business mouthing off on this subject and that I shouldn't have belittled the Buddhist faith and so on," Hume said.When O'Reilly asked why Christianity seems to draw such ire, Hume said it has always puzzled him, but "the Bible even speaks of it, that if you speak the name Jesus Christ -- and I don't mean to make a pun here -- all hell breaks loose.""It is explosive. I didn't even say the name in that way. I simply spoke of the Christian faith, but that was enough to trigger this reaction. It triggers a very powerful reaction in people who do not share the faith and who do not believe in it," Hume said.Wendy Wright, president of Concerned Women for America, said Christianity is "the one belief the tolerant cannot tolerate."Hume "pointed out how Tiger Woods, whose sexual sins have damaged his marriage, family and career, can recover," Wright said. "It is a tried-and-true method with centuries of evidence to back it up. From Saul of Tarsus, who was intent on murdering Christians, to John Newton, captain of a slave ship, to Chuck Colson, Nixon's notorious 'hatchet man,' to millions of others who have committed less egregious transgressions.""Jesus Christ transforms people's lives," Wright said Jan. 5. "Saul became the Apostle Paul. John Newton became a pastor, penned the song 'Amazing Grace' and influenced William Wilberforce to end the slave trade. Chuck Colson went from prisoner to founder of Prison Fellowship, a ministry to the imprisoned."Wright surmised that Hume would not be so viciously criticized if he had claimed the benefits of any other religion or non-religion."It's only when a Christian speaks of the advantages of Christianity that the modern secularist goes into orbit," she said. "No Christian should silence himself from a truth known deep in his soul. Brit Hume is to be commended for his courage to speak up and take the heat. All for a very simple idea -- that God loves us and can turn our broken lives into something better, something we could never have imagined."For those interested in allowing God to turn their lives around, Baptist Press provides information on receiving redemption through Jesus Christ. Just click on the icon in the top left corner of the Baptist Press homepage, bpnews.net. Additional resources are available through the North American Mission Board's website, namb.net, by scrolling to the bottom of the page and clicking on "Tell Me About Jesus."--30--Erin Roach is a staff writer for Baptist Press.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Jan-March 2010 Newsletter Article
I am posting a preview of my article for our first quarter newsletter. Enjoy.
To the Church at Hickory Grove,
I can’t believe that 2009 is already gone. It doesn’t seem like enough time has passed for another year to be over, but it is and as you are reading this, it is 2010. It’s a new year, and many people approach this time with a sense of renewal and hope. We make New Year’s resolutions, we plan and we dream about how the New Year will be a different year. The sad part is that those many people seldom implement a strategy that will help them accomplish their dreams and plans for that year.
Tim, Jeth and I have been dreaming big for HGBC for 2010. We have been praying, talking and listening to the Lord and you, the body, concerning our church and we feel like we have something that will bring excitement, joy, worship and ministry to our church in the coming year. We have a theme for 2010. I mentioned it on December 13 in the morning service. The theme for 2010 at HGBC is “Being the Church.”
It is time we change the way we think about and approach church. Church is not somewhere we go; it is WHO WE ARE! We are the church. When a Christian approaches church as a place to go he is able to set aside and compartmentalize “church” into a specific place and time. Scripture tells us that we are the church, always. There is never a time when we set it aside or take it off. As a staff we are excited about the potential of this time of change in the life of the church.
I am going to be preaching a series of sermons on “Being the Church” in January and February. The series will take Acts 2:42-47 and examine the five purposes of the church. And we will, hopefully, see how we can incorporate these ministries more effectively into the life and ministry of our lives as the church. We have also settled on theme verse for 2010, I Corinthians 10:31, and even a theme song. I am so excited.
We have also begun planning four (4) days during the year where we will gather to do servant evangelism ministry projects. We will do one each quarter throughout 2010, and we will do this so that we can “Share the love of Jesus in a practical way.” I know God will bless us as we live out this year “Being the Church.”
We are also going to make a slight schedule change on Sunday evenings. Beginning in February we will be having a regular Sunday evening worship time every Sunday night. I know that this will be a welcome return to the familiar for some. In conjunction with that worship time we will also be adjusting GROW to function as it was originally intended. Each Sunday night during the worship time we will offer GROW to those who wish to participate. We will have one team each Sunday night worshipping the Lord through outreach and ministry. The staff believes that this will bring excitement and continuity to our Sunday evening worship experience. We will be putting a schedule of which GROW team will be ministering on any given Sunday night. I can’t wait to see how God blesses us as we seek out new ways to glorify Him through our acts of obedience to His word.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Rom. 15:13
To the Church at Hickory Grove,
I can’t believe that 2009 is already gone. It doesn’t seem like enough time has passed for another year to be over, but it is and as you are reading this, it is 2010. It’s a new year, and many people approach this time with a sense of renewal and hope. We make New Year’s resolutions, we plan and we dream about how the New Year will be a different year. The sad part is that those many people seldom implement a strategy that will help them accomplish their dreams and plans for that year.
Tim, Jeth and I have been dreaming big for HGBC for 2010. We have been praying, talking and listening to the Lord and you, the body, concerning our church and we feel like we have something that will bring excitement, joy, worship and ministry to our church in the coming year. We have a theme for 2010. I mentioned it on December 13 in the morning service. The theme for 2010 at HGBC is “Being the Church.”
It is time we change the way we think about and approach church. Church is not somewhere we go; it is WHO WE ARE! We are the church. When a Christian approaches church as a place to go he is able to set aside and compartmentalize “church” into a specific place and time. Scripture tells us that we are the church, always. There is never a time when we set it aside or take it off. As a staff we are excited about the potential of this time of change in the life of the church.
I am going to be preaching a series of sermons on “Being the Church” in January and February. The series will take Acts 2:42-47 and examine the five purposes of the church. And we will, hopefully, see how we can incorporate these ministries more effectively into the life and ministry of our lives as the church. We have also settled on theme verse for 2010, I Corinthians 10:31, and even a theme song. I am so excited.
We have also begun planning four (4) days during the year where we will gather to do servant evangelism ministry projects. We will do one each quarter throughout 2010, and we will do this so that we can “Share the love of Jesus in a practical way.” I know God will bless us as we live out this year “Being the Church.”
We are also going to make a slight schedule change on Sunday evenings. Beginning in February we will be having a regular Sunday evening worship time every Sunday night. I know that this will be a welcome return to the familiar for some. In conjunction with that worship time we will also be adjusting GROW to function as it was originally intended. Each Sunday night during the worship time we will offer GROW to those who wish to participate. We will have one team each Sunday night worshipping the Lord through outreach and ministry. The staff believes that this will bring excitement and continuity to our Sunday evening worship experience. We will be putting a schedule of which GROW team will be ministering on any given Sunday night. I can’t wait to see how God blesses us as we seek out new ways to glorify Him through our acts of obedience to His word.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Rom. 15:13
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Dave Ramsey on Christmas
No matter what your budget is this Christmas, remember to be thankful. Take a deep breath in the middle of all this craziness.
You might have a lot. You might have a little. If you are driving a beater, be thankful for that beater. You would rather drive that than walk, wouldn't you? There is always something to be thankful for.
That's what contentment is all about. When you understand and really grasp contentment, it becomes easier to save money and invest. Stress slowly disappears. Budgeting is easier. Relationships improve.
Be happy with what you have. More than three billion people, almost half the world, live on $2.50 a day. Sometimes we need a little perspective to become content with our current situation.
Without contentment, it's easy to be bitter and apathetic. Happiness is sold to us, especially during this time of year. We think if we can just get one more piece of stuff that "true" happiness will be right around the corner.
We say things like, "I'll be happy when I get that house!" or "I'll be happy when I get that new car!" But happiness cannot be bought. Sure fun—in the form of a house, a car, a new LCD television—can be bought, but fun is temporary. True happiness, or contentment, is lasting.
You can get out of debt, save money, and get on a budget, but until you realize that stuff doesn’t bring contentment, you will always feel stressed and unhappy. Contentment brings peace. And isn’t this time of year about bringing "peace on earth and good will toward men"?
Remember what this deal is all about. It's not about trees, lights, gifts, baked hams, and shopping malls. It’s about a little child who was born in a manger and grew up to die on a cross. It’s about peace on earth and good will toward men.
So if the Christmas frenzy is wearing you out, you've missed the point of Christmas. Make a plan with your money, and make a plan to get back in touch with the true meaning of this special day.
You are invited to Dave's Give Like No One Else Christmas at DaveRamsey.com. Daily giveaways and great articles will make you want to check back every day to see what's new.
You might have a lot. You might have a little. If you are driving a beater, be thankful for that beater. You would rather drive that than walk, wouldn't you? There is always something to be thankful for.
That's what contentment is all about. When you understand and really grasp contentment, it becomes easier to save money and invest. Stress slowly disappears. Budgeting is easier. Relationships improve.
Be happy with what you have. More than three billion people, almost half the world, live on $2.50 a day. Sometimes we need a little perspective to become content with our current situation.
Without contentment, it's easy to be bitter and apathetic. Happiness is sold to us, especially during this time of year. We think if we can just get one more piece of stuff that "true" happiness will be right around the corner.
We say things like, "I'll be happy when I get that house!" or "I'll be happy when I get that new car!" But happiness cannot be bought. Sure fun—in the form of a house, a car, a new LCD television—can be bought, but fun is temporary. True happiness, or contentment, is lasting.
You can get out of debt, save money, and get on a budget, but until you realize that stuff doesn’t bring contentment, you will always feel stressed and unhappy. Contentment brings peace. And isn’t this time of year about bringing "peace on earth and good will toward men"?
Remember what this deal is all about. It's not about trees, lights, gifts, baked hams, and shopping malls. It’s about a little child who was born in a manger and grew up to die on a cross. It’s about peace on earth and good will toward men.
So if the Christmas frenzy is wearing you out, you've missed the point of Christmas. Make a plan with your money, and make a plan to get back in touch with the true meaning of this special day.
You are invited to Dave's Give Like No One Else Christmas at DaveRamsey.com. Daily giveaways and great articles will make you want to check back every day to see what's new.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Nov/Dec Newsletter Article
I am posting my current article for our newsletter for those who may not receive it.
To the Church at Hickory Grove,
I am writing to you for the last time in 2009. I can’t believe 2009 is almost gone. What a year it has been! But I love this time of year; fall is here and winter is coming. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and right on it’s heals is Christmas. It’s a busy time of year, but it is such a special time as well. We have a lot of things going on, so make sure you hang on to the calendar inside so you don’t miss out on anything going on during the holiday season.
As I think of this holiday season I am draw to the realization of how thankful I am. I am thankful for the blessings God has given me in my family. Melissa is like a rock for me, and I am so thankful she has chosen to take this journey with me. There is no one I would rather walk this road with than you honey! I love you. I am also thankful for the blessings God has given me in my children. It’s hard to remember Morgan not being in our lives. She was only four months old when we came to HGBC and my how she has grown. As I write this article today, Mya turns nine months old. Time flies! She has five teeth and I’m expecting her to start running across the house any time now. I am truly a blessed man. I am thankful for the opportunity God has given me to be your pastor. He has taught me so many things, and I thank you for your patience as God continues to work on me making me into the man he wants me to be.
I am thankful for all these things and so many more, but I have saved the best for last. As this time of year quickly approaches, I am most thankful for Immanuel. I am thankful that God is not some aloof, transcendent God that can’t be known or approached. I am thankful that God is Immanuel; He is with us. But there is even something better than that. He was God among us during the time of the Old Testament. He dwelt among his people in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. While Jesus walked this earth he was Immanuel, meaning God with us. Now He is God IN US! As the old song goes, “What a difference you made in my life. What a difference you made in my life. You’re my sunshine day and night. Oh, what a difference you made in my life.”
Thank you Lord Jesus! May we never forget.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Num. 6:24-26
To the Church at Hickory Grove,
I am writing to you for the last time in 2009. I can’t believe 2009 is almost gone. What a year it has been! But I love this time of year; fall is here and winter is coming. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and right on it’s heals is Christmas. It’s a busy time of year, but it is such a special time as well. We have a lot of things going on, so make sure you hang on to the calendar inside so you don’t miss out on anything going on during the holiday season.
As I think of this holiday season I am draw to the realization of how thankful I am. I am thankful for the blessings God has given me in my family. Melissa is like a rock for me, and I am so thankful she has chosen to take this journey with me. There is no one I would rather walk this road with than you honey! I love you. I am also thankful for the blessings God has given me in my children. It’s hard to remember Morgan not being in our lives. She was only four months old when we came to HGBC and my how she has grown. As I write this article today, Mya turns nine months old. Time flies! She has five teeth and I’m expecting her to start running across the house any time now. I am truly a blessed man. I am thankful for the opportunity God has given me to be your pastor. He has taught me so many things, and I thank you for your patience as God continues to work on me making me into the man he wants me to be.
I am thankful for all these things and so many more, but I have saved the best for last. As this time of year quickly approaches, I am most thankful for Immanuel. I am thankful that God is not some aloof, transcendent God that can’t be known or approached. I am thankful that God is Immanuel; He is with us. But there is even something better than that. He was God among us during the time of the Old Testament. He dwelt among his people in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. While Jesus walked this earth he was Immanuel, meaning God with us. Now He is God IN US! As the old song goes, “What a difference you made in my life. What a difference you made in my life. You’re my sunshine day and night. Oh, what a difference you made in my life.”
Thank you Lord Jesus! May we never forget.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Num. 6:24-26
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Something I Read Today
This post is from Steven Furtick, lead pastor at Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC. We both graduated from North Greenville College, but I haven't had the opportunity to meet him yet. But I know God is blessing his ministry and thousands of lives have changed in the process. Enjoy! And remember "Information without application and transformation is an abomination!"
Excellence: An inside jobSeptember 24th, 2009
…He overlaid (the ark) with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it…-Exodus 37:1-2
The ark of the covenant represented the presence of God. It served as the storage center for the Ten Commandments, and was Israel’s most sacred possession. It makes perfect sense to overlay the ark with gold on the outside. Everybody’s going to see that part every time it makes a public appearance. Obviously, we want to do everything we can to make God look good, and to represent him well in front of others.
But why bother overlaying the inside of the ark with gold? Wouldn’t silver suffice? Is that really necessary? Isn’t it a bit opulent? Extravagant? Wasteful? Secondary? Unproductive?
Not for a purpose as important as the presence of God. Only the best is acceptable.
I recently challenged our staff to find as many ways as possible to overlay the inside of the ark-the part of our ministry that no one sees-with gold. To give great effort to the hidden details. This doesn’t come naturally.
We’re good at getting our crap together in the high traffic areas of our ministry:Music, lighting, production, videos.But do we overlay the ark with gold in the places no one sees?Are we prompt? Do we keep our spaces clean and organized? Is our communication timely and clear?
Let’s make it more personal. Do I overlay the inside parts of my personal life with gold? Do I speak well of others at all times? Do I monitor my private thoughts…even though they aren’t projected on the big screen? Do I wear the SuperPastor cape on weekends only, or am I a loving, kind, thoughtful husband and father Monday through Friday?
It’s important to give our best to the seen and unseen places in our lives and ministries. Here’s an axiom for reflection:
When we honor God in the places no one seesHe will honor us in the places everyone sees.
Excellence is an inside job.
Excellence: An inside jobSeptember 24th, 2009
…He overlaid (the ark) with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it…-Exodus 37:1-2
The ark of the covenant represented the presence of God. It served as the storage center for the Ten Commandments, and was Israel’s most sacred possession. It makes perfect sense to overlay the ark with gold on the outside. Everybody’s going to see that part every time it makes a public appearance. Obviously, we want to do everything we can to make God look good, and to represent him well in front of others.
But why bother overlaying the inside of the ark with gold? Wouldn’t silver suffice? Is that really necessary? Isn’t it a bit opulent? Extravagant? Wasteful? Secondary? Unproductive?
Not for a purpose as important as the presence of God. Only the best is acceptable.
I recently challenged our staff to find as many ways as possible to overlay the inside of the ark-the part of our ministry that no one sees-with gold. To give great effort to the hidden details. This doesn’t come naturally.
We’re good at getting our crap together in the high traffic areas of our ministry:Music, lighting, production, videos.But do we overlay the ark with gold in the places no one sees?Are we prompt? Do we keep our spaces clean and organized? Is our communication timely and clear?
Let’s make it more personal. Do I overlay the inside parts of my personal life with gold? Do I speak well of others at all times? Do I monitor my private thoughts…even though they aren’t projected on the big screen? Do I wear the SuperPastor cape on weekends only, or am I a loving, kind, thoughtful husband and father Monday through Friday?
It’s important to give our best to the seen and unseen places in our lives and ministries. Here’s an axiom for reflection:
When we honor God in the places no one seesHe will honor us in the places everyone sees.
Excellence is an inside job.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Vacation
We're having a great time on vacation here in Orlando. It's been a very relaxing time with my family, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to spend this uninterrupted time with them. The only thing I hate is that it is coming to an end so quickly. But we will not be thinking about that just yet. My wonderful wife got us tickets to Arabian Nights for this evening and then we are headed back to see the big mouse tomorrow.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Faith Comes By Hearing
This past year I was introduced to a Christian organization called Faith Comes By Hearing. This organization has an interesting ministry. They partner with Wycliffe Bible Translators and others to put the Word of God in the "heart" language of all the nations in audio format. They do this because so many of the worlds population are illiterate or are from oral based cultures. But the best thing is that they work in producing the bible in the heart language of these people. It's not that they can't speak another language, but that it means so much to the people when they hear about Jesus in the language of their birth.
HGBC is participating with Faith Comes By Hearing beginning Monday, September 14. That Monday we will begin listening to the New Testament in 40 days. We will be handing out FCBH audio versions of the NT in the KJV and NIV for adults, along with a kids version as well. All it takes to get through the whole NT in 40 days is 28 minutes a day. I have been sampling some of the work over the last few days and I love it. The listening time is made very enjoyable because it is dramatized. It's very moving to hear the Scriptures in this format, and I can say that the time flies by. I can't wait to do this with my family at home along with my church family beginning in just a few days.
I encourage you to get your audio copy of the NT and take the 40 day challenge. I believe we will all be changed as we listen to God speaking to us through his word this way. If you want to get a preview go to http://www.faithcomesbyhearing.com/. You can find a live stream of the entire NT there. I am also looking forward to demonstrating for you the "proclaimer" which is the device FCBH uses in the jungles, etc... to share the Scriptures with those in need of the Savior. It is solar powered and up to 300 people can listen at a time. We will be taking several love offerings in participating with FCBH. It costs $25,596.00 to produce the whole NT in a language or $948 for each book of the NT. I would love for us as a church to be able to help with at least 2 books of the NT.
I pray that as God blesses you through this time in his word that he will place within you a great desire to help with this magnificent endeavor. God bless you.
Pastor Mike
HGBC is participating with Faith Comes By Hearing beginning Monday, September 14. That Monday we will begin listening to the New Testament in 40 days. We will be handing out FCBH audio versions of the NT in the KJV and NIV for adults, along with a kids version as well. All it takes to get through the whole NT in 40 days is 28 minutes a day. I have been sampling some of the work over the last few days and I love it. The listening time is made very enjoyable because it is dramatized. It's very moving to hear the Scriptures in this format, and I can say that the time flies by. I can't wait to do this with my family at home along with my church family beginning in just a few days.
I encourage you to get your audio copy of the NT and take the 40 day challenge. I believe we will all be changed as we listen to God speaking to us through his word this way. If you want to get a preview go to http://www.faithcomesbyhearing.com/. You can find a live stream of the entire NT there. I am also looking forward to demonstrating for you the "proclaimer" which is the device FCBH uses in the jungles, etc... to share the Scriptures with those in need of the Savior. It is solar powered and up to 300 people can listen at a time. We will be taking several love offerings in participating with FCBH. It costs $25,596.00 to produce the whole NT in a language or $948 for each book of the NT. I would love for us as a church to be able to help with at least 2 books of the NT.
I pray that as God blesses you through this time in his word that he will place within you a great desire to help with this magnificent endeavor. God bless you.
Pastor Mike
Monday, August 31, 2009
Little Johnny
A teacher asked her 6th grade class how many of them were Obama fans. Not really knowing what an Obama fan is, but wanting to be liked by the teacher, all the kids raised their hands except for little Johnny. The teacher asked Little Johnny why he has decided to be different. Little Johnny said, ‘Because I’m not an Obama fan.’ The teacher asked, ‘Why aren’t you an Obama fan?’Johnny said , ‘Because I’m a Republican.’ The teacher asked him why he’s a Republican. Little Johnny answered, ‘Well, my Mom’s a Republican and my Dad’s a Republican, so I’m a Republican.’ Annoyed by this answer, the teacher asked, ‘If your mom was a moron and your dad was an idiot, what would that make you?’ With a big smile, Little Johnny replied, ‘That would make me an Obama fan.'
Thanks for the laugh Chanda.
A teacher asked her 6th grade class how many of them were Obama fans. Not really knowing what an Obama fan is, but wanting to be liked by the teacher, all the kids raised their hands except for little Johnny. The teacher asked Little Johnny why he has decided to be different. Little Johnny said, ‘Because I’m not an Obama fan.’ The teacher asked, ‘Why aren’t you an Obama fan?’Johnny said , ‘Because I’m a Republican.’ The teacher asked him why he’s a Republican. Little Johnny answered, ‘Well, my Mom’s a Republican and my Dad’s a Republican, so I’m a Republican.’ Annoyed by this answer, the teacher asked, ‘If your mom was a moron and your dad was an idiot, what would that make you?’ With a big smile, Little Johnny replied, ‘That would make me an Obama fan.'
Thanks for the laugh Chanda.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Chambers Reloaded-August 13
I broke out My Utmost for His Highest again today and Chambers was loaded for bear! The title of today's devotional is "Quench Not The Spirit." He bases it on I Thess. 5:19. His opened statement is, get ready for this, "The voice of the Spirit is...so gentle that unless you are living in perfect communion with God, you never hear it." That is powerful, don't you think?!
Have you heard Him lately?
Have you heard Him lately?
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
My Utmost for His Highest
I was talking to my Mom yesterday and she told me to get out my copy of Oswald Chambers devotional book My Utmost for His Highest and read the devotion from her birthdate, September 6. Below is that devotion. I was encouraged!
"Diffusiveness Of Life"
"Rivers of living water." John 7:38
A river touches places of which its source knows nothing, and Jesus says if we have received of His fullness, however small the visible measure of our lives, out of us will flow the rivers that will bless to the uttermost parts of the earth. We have nothing to do with the outflow- "This is the work of God that ye believe..." God rarely allows a soul to see how great a blessing he is.
A river is victoriously persistent, it overcomes all barriers. For a while it goes steadily on its course, then it comes to an obstacle and for a while baulked, but it soon makes a pathway round the obstacle. Or a river will drop out of sight for miles, and presently emerge again broader and grander than ever. You can see God using some lives, but into your life an obstacle has come and you do not seem to be of any use. Keep paying attention to the Source, and God will either take you round the obstacle or remove it. The river of the Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles. Never get your eyes on the obstacle or on the difficulty. The obstacle us a matter of indifference to the river which will flow steadily through you if you remember to keep right at the Source. Never allow anything to come between yourself and Jesus Christ, no emotion, or experience; nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.
Think of the healing and far-flung rivers nursing themselves in our souls! God has been opening up marvellous truths to our minds, and every point He has opened up is an indication of the wider power of the river He will flow through us. If you believe in Jesus, you will find that God has nourished in you mighty torrents of blessing for others. -Oswald Chambers
"Diffusiveness Of Life"
"Rivers of living water." John 7:38
A river touches places of which its source knows nothing, and Jesus says if we have received of His fullness, however small the visible measure of our lives, out of us will flow the rivers that will bless to the uttermost parts of the earth. We have nothing to do with the outflow- "This is the work of God that ye believe..." God rarely allows a soul to see how great a blessing he is.
A river is victoriously persistent, it overcomes all barriers. For a while it goes steadily on its course, then it comes to an obstacle and for a while baulked, but it soon makes a pathway round the obstacle. Or a river will drop out of sight for miles, and presently emerge again broader and grander than ever. You can see God using some lives, but into your life an obstacle has come and you do not seem to be of any use. Keep paying attention to the Source, and God will either take you round the obstacle or remove it. The river of the Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles. Never get your eyes on the obstacle or on the difficulty. The obstacle us a matter of indifference to the river which will flow steadily through you if you remember to keep right at the Source. Never allow anything to come between yourself and Jesus Christ, no emotion, or experience; nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.
Think of the healing and far-flung rivers nursing themselves in our souls! God has been opening up marvellous truths to our minds, and every point He has opened up is an indication of the wider power of the river He will flow through us. If you believe in Jesus, you will find that God has nourished in you mighty torrents of blessing for others. -Oswald Chambers
Saturday, August 08, 2009
II Chronicles 20
The Lord God always gives us what we need when we need it. He does this because he loves his children, and that is what he has promise he would do in his word according to Philippians 4:19 which says "And my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
I have needed him for many things over the last few months, and he has always honored his word. I have needed him for direction, and he has given it to me. I have needed him for strength, and he has supplied it. I have needed him for encouragement, and he has blessed me with it. I have needed it for power, and there has been an abundance.
Two weeks ago now I was particularly low and was searching for the Lord, and did I ever find him. I was weak and lonely; I was struggling in almost every area of my life, and I was wondering where God was in all of this. I went on FaceBook, of all places, and one of my friends had posted a single verse from the Old Testament. The verse was II Chronicles 20:17, "'You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!' Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you." I immediately got my sword out and went to the chapter because I had to know the context of the verse, although God my Father had already used it mightily in my heart.
The context is that King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah are about to be attacked by the enemy of God: Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir (the people of). The king seeks God's face and calls for the people to fast and pray. They respond, positively, to the kings request, and because they seek God's face God answers their prayer. (See verse 17 above). They go out the next day just as God told them and see God fight the battle for them. The enemies of God are destroyed completely, and God allows the people to gather the spoils of battle. God blesses them so much that it takes them three (3) days to gather all that God has blessed them with because the obeyed the Lord their God.
God has given me a great peace in the middle of all the turmoil of my life. Once again God has reminded me that he will be my defender; he will fight the fight for me if I will obey him and seek his face. I will trust in the Lord God my defender! I will trust him with my life. I will lead his people to follow his path, but I will not force them to follow him. And in the end I am at peace knowing that I have done what he has called me to do.
Serving Him and no other,
Mike
I have needed him for many things over the last few months, and he has always honored his word. I have needed him for direction, and he has given it to me. I have needed him for strength, and he has supplied it. I have needed him for encouragement, and he has blessed me with it. I have needed it for power, and there has been an abundance.
Two weeks ago now I was particularly low and was searching for the Lord, and did I ever find him. I was weak and lonely; I was struggling in almost every area of my life, and I was wondering where God was in all of this. I went on FaceBook, of all places, and one of my friends had posted a single verse from the Old Testament. The verse was II Chronicles 20:17, "'You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!' Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you." I immediately got my sword out and went to the chapter because I had to know the context of the verse, although God my Father had already used it mightily in my heart.
The context is that King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah are about to be attacked by the enemy of God: Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir (the people of). The king seeks God's face and calls for the people to fast and pray. They respond, positively, to the kings request, and because they seek God's face God answers their prayer. (See verse 17 above). They go out the next day just as God told them and see God fight the battle for them. The enemies of God are destroyed completely, and God allows the people to gather the spoils of battle. God blesses them so much that it takes them three (3) days to gather all that God has blessed them with because the obeyed the Lord their God.
God has given me a great peace in the middle of all the turmoil of my life. Once again God has reminded me that he will be my defender; he will fight the fight for me if I will obey him and seek his face. I will trust in the Lord God my defender! I will trust him with my life. I will lead his people to follow his path, but I will not force them to follow him. And in the end I am at peace knowing that I have done what he has called me to do.
Serving Him and no other,
Mike
Friday, July 10, 2009
Morgan's big catch
I took Morgan out fishing Monday evening after work and we had a blast. Steve Ard and his daughter Anne went with us and we caught a few croker, but Morgan and I caught a really nice Redfish. As a matter of fact it was a 26.25 inch redfish. I was so proud of her for working on that fish for all she was worth, and then I got to finish him off after she wore him down. I'll put a picture up for you to see. Great memories!
Friday, June 19, 2009
a First for Morgan
I had the distinct pleasure of taking my three year old daughter Morgan fishing today; it was her first trip, but it will not be the last. It was our second time out in our "new" boat, and we had a blast as the sun went down on the St. Johns River. Morgan reeled in 4 fish, and was smiling from ear to ear. It kinda made me smile just a little too. I can't wait to do it all over again.
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