http://www.hope4today.net/blog.aspx?site_id=10430&blog_id=177054 EN-US Copyright &#xA9; 2012 Blessed Hope http://www.triplePixel.com Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.hope4today.net/Content/10430/thumbnails/177054-rss-thumbnail.jpghttp://www.hope4today.net/blog.aspx?site_id=10430&amp;blog_id=177054 pastorbrian@hope4today.net no http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=265723http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=265723 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:00:00 GMT Blessed Hope.... I wish somehow I could get all of you in a locker room and give you a fourth quarter, "we can do this" speech. I wish I could be a general on a beautiful white horse and shout to the top of my voice, "charge"! I believe now, more than ever we have to be crazy busy, super excited and radically committed to the work of Jesus through the ministry of Blessed Hope. I see this huge opportunity that God has given us, but at the same time I see Satan's defensive line putting up huge resistance. Our culture could easily be described by the word, distracting. There are so many places to be, so many things to do and somehow God is no longer significant in people's lives. The scary thing about that is, we (the body&nbsp;of Christ) are the hope of the world. That responsibility calls us to a greater committment, and without that we become completely inaffective. So my call to you today is, Get Busy! Together let's see serving God as a great adventure and together let's discover all the amazing things God has in our future. Blessed Hope.... I wish somehow I could get all of you in a locker room and give you a fourth quarter, "we can do this" speech. I wish I could be a general on a beautiful white horse and shout to the top of my voice, "charge"! I believe now, more than ever we have to be crazy busy, super excited and radically committed to the work of Jesus through the ministry of Blessed Hope. I see this huge opportunity that God has given us, but at the same time I see Satan's defensive line putting up huge resistance. Our culture could easily be described by the word, distracting. There are so many places to be, so many things to do and somehow God is no longer significant in people's lives. The scary thing about that is, we (the body of Christ) are the hope of the world. That responsibility calls us to a greater committment, and without that we become completely inaffective. So my call to you today is, Get Busy! Together let's see serving God as a great adventure and together let's discover all the amazing things God has in our future. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=260988http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=260988 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:00:00 GMT As we study the book of Revelation, post your questions and comments here. This is a very challenging and often times confusing book. That is why we are going to take our time with it and try to address all of your questions.<br /> <br /> You can listen to the entire series <a href="http://www.hope4today.net/BlogArchive.aspx?site_id=10430&amp;blog_id=175915&amp;tag=Revelation" target="_blank">online.</a><br /> As we study the book of Revelation, post your questions and comments here. This is a very challenging and often times confusing book. That is why we are going to take our time with it and try to address all of your questions. You can listen to the entire series online. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=249657http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=249657 Fri, 06 May 2011 02:00:00 GMT The Wednesday night after the news of Osama Bin Laden's death spread around the world we decided to talk about what our reaction should be as a Christian. Should we be glad and actually celebrate his death? Should we feel a sense of satisfaction? Or should we be a little confused about how we should react? These are the questions people from Blessed Hope have been dealing with for the past several days. This is an opportunity for you to weigh in with your thoughts and we will be posting more information over the coming days. One thing we certainly want anyone who reads this blog to realize is, we are extremely thankful/proud for the dedication of our military. Their sacrifice insures that the freedom we enjoy as Americans will continue into future generations. The Wednesday night after the news of Osama Bin Laden's death spread around the world we decided to talk about what our reaction should be as a Christian. Should we be glad and actually celebrate his death? Should we feel a sense of satisfaction? Or should we be a little confused about how we should react? These are the questions people from Blessed Hope have been dealing with for the past several days. This is an opportunity for you to weigh in with your thoughts and we will be posting more information over the coming days. One thing we certainly want anyone who reads this blog to realize is, we are extremely thankful/proud for the dedication of our military. Their sacrifice insures that the freedom we enjoy as Americans will continue into future generations. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=239803http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=239803 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 14:00:00 GMT Hey everyone, if you have a *positive* story of how Blessed Hope has impacted your life please take a moment to share. Sometimes we lose sight of the fact people's lives really are changed and we want the opportunity to highlight what God has done in your life. So take a moment and share, and who knows your story may have a huge effect on someone else's life. Hey everyone, if you have a *positive* story of how Blessed Hope has impacted your life please take a moment to share. Sometimes we lose sight of the fact people's lives really are changed and we want the opportunity to highlight what God has done in your life. So take a moment and share, and who knows your story may have a huge effect on someone else's life. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=218173http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=218173 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 05:00:00 GMT What an exciting time to be a part of Blessed Hope! I know vacation season is still impacting attendance, I know everyone spending their money enjoying the summer is having an effect on our offerings, but none of that changes the great things God is doing behind the scenes. He is honestly at work in ways I don't comprehend yet, but what I do comprehend let's me know we're moving in the right direction. You're going to hear all kinds of great stuff over the next few weeks and I hope you'll surrender to being a part of what God desires to do. All I know is, I'm excited! really I am. What an exciting time to be a part of Blessed Hope! I know vacation season is still impacting attendance, I know everyone spending their money enjoying the summer is having an effect on our offerings, but none of that changes the great things God is doing behind the scenes. He is honestly at work in ways I don't comprehend yet, but what I do comprehend let's me know we're moving in the right direction. You're going to hear all kinds of great stuff over the next few weeks and I hope you'll surrender to being a part of what God desires to do. All I know is, I'm excited! really I am. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=216960http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=216960 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT One of my favorite miracles in the bible was the healing of the blind man. The religious pharisees repeatedly asked him the question, How did this happen? To me his answer was classic, "I don't know". That was his answer and he didn't budge from it. Finally in frustration one of the pharisees must have asked, do you know anything? The young man's answer was brilliant, "all I know is I was once blind and now I can see". That may not have been the information they were seeking, but what a testimony. It doesn't explain intimate details it just embraces the reality that something changed. That's exactly where I am at this moment. For a long time I've been living in this unexplainable fog. However, recently in a way I can't even explain the fog has been lifted. My zeal for the ministry of Blessed Hope is more intense right now than it has been in the past three years. I know where we're supposed to go, I know situations that have to be dealt with and I know in the end God will smile on us in a big way. My prayer is that you would pray that God will restore your heart, that He would give an excitement you haven't experienced for a long time and that you will celebrate with me the changes that will take place over the coming weeks. One of my favorite miracles in the bible was the healing of the blind man. The religious pharisees repeatedly asked him the question, How did this happen? To me his answer was classic, "I don't know". That was his answer and he didn't budge from it. Finally in frustration one of the pharisees must have asked, do you know anything? The young man's answer was brilliant, "all I know is I was once blind and now I can see". That may not have been the information they were seeking, but what a testimony. It doesn't explain intimate details it just embraces the reality that something changed. That's exactly where I am at this moment. For a long time I've been living in this unexplainable fog. However, recently in a way I can't even explain the fog has been lifted. My zeal for the ministry of Blessed Hope is more intense right now than it has been in the past three years. I know where we're supposed to go, I know situations that have to be dealt with and I know in the end God will smile on us in a big way. My prayer is that you would pray that God will restore your heart, that He would give an excitement you haven't experienced for a long time and that you will celebrate with me the changes that will take place over the coming weeks. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=214522http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=214522 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT For just a moment pause and think a specific thought. Any thought you want to think..... have you got it? Seems completely invisible doesn't it? It's NOT! God knows exactly what you're thinking. As a matter of fact He always knows what we're thinking. The notion that we can hide something from Him is silly. What is very real is our rebellion against His intimate knowledge of us. His knowledge seems like the ultimate invasion of privacy, but for those who are saved you relinquished all of your privacy at the moment of salvation. Scripture asks, don't you know that you are not your own because you were bought with a price? If my perspective is right I view myself, my thoughts, hopes and dreams as God's property. He has unlimited access to me. Stop and think about the weight of that thought. In a world that convinces us we have rights and authority over our bodies God completely refutes that notion. He has the authority to barge in because He's God, but He desires for us to give Him an open invitation. To trust Him enough to believe He will never violate us. To realize that Him knowing is for our benefit. So remove the locks, open wide the doors to your heart and trust the God who relentlessly loves you. For just a moment pause and think a specific thought. Any thought you want to think..... have you got it? Seems completely invisible doesn't it? It's NOT! God knows exactly what you're thinking. As a matter of fact He always knows what we're thinking. The notion that we can hide something from Him is silly. What is very real is our rebellion against His intimate knowledge of us. His knowledge seems like the ultimate invasion of privacy, but for those who are saved you relinquished all of your privacy at the moment of salvation. Scripture asks, don't you know that you are not your own because you were bought with a price? If my perspective is right I view myself, my thoughts, hopes and dreams as God's property. He has unlimited access to me. Stop and think about the weight of that thought. In a world that convinces us we have rights and authority over our bodies God completely refutes that notion. He has the authority to barge in because He's God, but He desires for us to give Him an open invitation. To trust Him enough to believe He will never violate us. To realize that Him knowing is for our benefit. So remove the locks, open wide the doors to your heart and trust the God who relentlessly loves you. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=213697http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=213697 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT Just in case you can't quote this verse take a moment and read these words, <strong>"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He (God) delights in his way".</strong> WOW!!! What a relief! This one verse let's us know it's not up to us to plan the future, or stress about where we're headed next, but our focus is to be placed completely on honoring God. If we honor God He takes care of our location. <strong>Psalm 23</strong> says, <strong>"He leads us in paths of righteousness for His name's sake"</strong>. When will we realize serving God isn't about our name, but it's about His name. My life's direction has the potential to honor His name. That's why He leads me to righteousness. It isn't my responsibility to find paths, but it's my responsibility to stay focused on the Shepherd. He knows the path that will glorify Him most, and He leads me down that path that allows me to honor Him with my life. If my opinions, my plans and my dreams interfere life quickly veers of course. That's why I love the Spirit inspire word, <strong>"ordered</strong>". <br /> I don't need a road map I simply listen to His voice and trust His direction. The word means, to confirm, to establish or to prepare. His view of my future is clearer than my view. He sees the path in front me and He makes things right. He does that because He loves me and delights in me when my way glorifies Him. Recently I watched my daughters walk across the stage to receive their awards for a successful school year.I couldn't help but think about all the nights they didn't want to study or do homework, all the times they complained not realizing that their mom and I were thinking about thier future. However, on awards day each time their names were called they proudly walked across the stage and seeing them in that moment brought huge smiles to our faces. I believe the same is true with God. We argue with Him over direction, over the tests that come into our lives, but when we surrender in obedience and things work out according to His will, He smiles. Just in case you can't quote this verse take a moment and read these words, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He (God) delights in his way". WOW!!! What a relief! This one verse let's us know it's not up to us to plan the future, or stress about where we're headed next, but our focus is to be placed completely on honoring God. If we honor God He takes care of our location. Psalm 23 says, "He leads us in paths of righteousness for His name's sake" . When will we realize serving God isn't about our name, but it's about His name. My life's direction has the potential to honor His name. That's why He leads me to righteousness. It isn't my responsibility to find paths, but it's my responsibility to stay focused on the Shepherd. He knows the path that will glorify Him most, and He leads me down that path that allows me to honor Him with my life. If my opinions, my plans and my dreams interfere life quickly veers of course. That's why I love the Spirit inspire word, "ordered ". I don't need a road map I simply listen to His voice and trust His direction. The word means, to confirm, to establish or to prepare. His view of my future is clearer than my view. He sees the path in front me and He makes things right. He does that because He loves me and delights in me when my way glorifies Him. Recently I watched my daughters walk across the stage to receive their awards for a successful school year.I couldn't help but think about all the nights they didn't want to study or do homework, all the times they complained not realizing that their mom and I were thinking about thier future. However, on awards day each time their names were called they proudly walked across the stage and seeing them in that moment brought huge smiles to our faces. I believe the same is true with God. We argue with Him over direction, over the tests that come into our lives, but when we surrender in obedience and things work out according to His will, He smiles. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=213518http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=213518 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 05:00:00 GMT We live in a culture that encourages Independance. The news media, the educational system, music and popular talk show host all share the common desire to empower you to live without the need of God. This insane philosophy has somehow melted our minds to the point that we adhere to this belief. However, scripture calls on believers to live opposite of the culture. To live without embracing the world's system or allowing yourself to be drawn in by it's sinful motives. So with that in mind I challenge you to stand up and proudly declare your dependance. Broadcast that you realize you have no power or ability to accomplish anything great apart from Jesus Christ. Join the hymn writer in admitting your continual need of God. Reject the notion that you only need Him daily and in weakness confess that you need Him every hour, every moment, every second. It feels so freeing to confess that I'm aware of my need for God's strength. To openly acknowledge that I am dependant on an all capable God. Would you like to join me? We live in a culture that encourages Independance. The news media, the educational system, music and popular talk show host all share the common desire to empower you to live without the need of God. This insane philosophy has somehow melted our minds to the point that we adhere to this belief. However, scripture calls on believers to live opposite of the culture. To live without embracing the world's system or allowing yourself to be drawn in by it's sinful motives. So with that in mind I challenge you to stand up and proudly declare your dependance. Broadcast that you realize you have no power or ability to accomplish anything great apart from Jesus Christ. Join the hymn writer in admitting your continual need of God. Reject the notion that you only need Him daily and in weakness confess that you need Him every hour, every moment, every second. It feels so freeing to confess that I'm aware of my need for God's strength. To openly acknowledge that I am dependant on an all capable God. Would you like to join me? http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=212046http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=212046 Mon, 31 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT Today marked the conclusion of our study in Nehemiah. The eight month journey came to a close with Nehemiah physically fighting with the people who were openly disobeying God. This makes me feel so much better about how you must feel about me. I know sometimes my messages are rough but at least I haven't pulled out anyone's hair or laid hands on anyone (yet). I do hope the way the book was carefully taught has made a difference in your life. If so take a moment and leave a comment on the blog and let us know what about Nehemiah spoke to your heart. Today marked the conclusion of our study in Nehemiah. The eight month journey came to a close with Nehemiah physically fighting with the people who were openly disobeying God. This makes me feel so much better about how you must feel about me. I know sometimes my messages are rough but at least I haven't pulled out anyone's hair or laid hands on anyone (yet). I do hope the way the book was carefully taught has made a difference in your life. If so take a moment and leave a comment on the blog and let us know what about Nehemiah spoke to your heart. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=204510http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=204510 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 02:00:00 GMT Sometimes I find myself questioning, does God really know what I'm going through? And then I'm reminded, Of course He does. So why do I doubt His awareness of my situations? It's because I forget that the clouds in my life only block my view of Him. His view of me never changes. Job exclaimed, "I can't find God", but then he confessed, "He knows the way that I take". Don't worry, God sees you regardless of how dark the clouds might seem. Sometimes I find myself questioning, does God really know what I'm going through? And then I'm reminded, Of course He does. So why do I doubt His awareness of my situations? It's because I forget that the clouds in my life only block my view of Him. His view of me never changes. Job exclaimed, "I can't find God", but then he confessed, "He knows the way that I take". Don't worry, God sees you regardless of how dark the clouds might seem. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=203235http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=203235 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT James 1 : 22 Clearly says, <strong>"be doers of the word and not hearers only"</strong>. God can't say it any clearer. Obedience to His word involves action. It's more about living than it is receiving, but too often we take in mass amounts of His word without reacting to what we've heard. God both desires and deserves more than that from us. We've heard from God through the book of Nehemiah. The themes of unity, repentance, generous living and worship have all been highlighted by the scripture. Now our re-action should be to incorporate what we've heard into our lives.When that happens God's word is obeyed, God is honored and His work prospers. Let's get busy we have a lot to do. James 1 : 22 Clearly says, "be doers of the word and not hearers only" . God can't say it any clearer. Obedience to His word involves action. It's more about living than it is receiving, but too often we take in mass amounts of His word without reacting to what we've heard. God both desires and deserves more than that from us. We've heard from God through the book of Nehemiah. The themes of unity, repentance, generous living and worship have all been highlighted by the scripture. Now our re-action should be to incorporate what we've heard into our lives.When that happens God's word is obeyed, God is honored and His work prospers. Let's get busy we have a lot to do. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=202334http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=202334 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT In the third chapter of Daniel we're introduced to three young men who honored their committment to God and refused to follow the culture. As a matter of fact they were so bold they refused to obey King Nebuchadnezzar. In their day this was unheard of since the King held the power to impose a death sentence on anyone who disobeyed his authority. There was no trial by jury, no innocent to proven guilty and no lengthy stay on death row. The only thing needed was for the King to dislike you enough to pronounce judgement. This authority created wicked Kings obssessed with themselves and driven by their own selfish desires. However, in spite of that three young men named Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego stood against the word of one of histories greatest ego maniacs and Daniel three gives the account of how it all went down. Nebuchadnezzar had a statue constructed in his image that stood over ninety feet high. This was all about his power and authority. It communicated to everyone that he was large and in charge, bigger than life but not only did it display his power, it also displayed his wealth. The statue was made of pure gold. Imagine how intimidating this statue was to everyone who saw it. It reminded them that Nebuchadnezzar was more powerful than them, wealthier than them and that he ruled in authority over them.<br /> That's the reason everyone assembled in the plain of Dura after receiving the King's command. Imagine how anxious he was to watcheveryone bow before his image. He had been dreaming of this day. He had every detail carefully planned. There were soldiers present to intimidate anyone who thought of rebelling, there were musicians rehearsed and ready, it was all completely planned. Finally the instruments sounded and everyone fell with their faces to the ground it was Nebuchadnezzar's dream come true. However, it was all ruined when he noticed there were three who hadn't bowed. Three who had the courage to stand against peer pressure, three who stood against the culture and three who weren't lured into conformity, and it wasn't like their decision to rebel was hidden in obscurity. When Nebuchadnezzar received word they had refused to bow he had them brought before everyone. Think for a moment how angry he was to realize there were men who had the courage to defy him and ruin the day he had planned for himself. So in an attempt to maintain his image of complete authority he explains to them the purpose of the music and the response he expects. He even threatens them with the "fiery furnance". See him pointing to the furnance and screaming i'll have you thrown in for humiliating me, nobody defies King Nebuchadnezzar. That mental image makes Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego's response priceless. They completely ignore the Kings power and they acknowledge God as their great deliverer. When King Nubuchadnezzar heard them ascribe power to God he was so angry he commanded the heat of the furnance be increased and he threw them in. The story ends with God honoring their committment to live counter culturally and delivering them. Oh that God would create a passion in us to be like Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego. To stand against an intimidating culture and purpose in our hearts to live godly. If we do it will get heated sometimes. Some people will even try to intimidate us, but ultimately God will be our deliverer. In the third chapter of Daniel we're introduced to three young men who honored their committment to God and refused to follow the culture. As a matter of fact they were so bold they refused to obey King Nebuchadnezzar. In their day this was unheard of since the King held the power to impose a death sentence on anyone who disobeyed his authority. There was no trial by jury, no innocent to proven guilty and no lengthy stay on death row. The only thing needed was for the King to dislike you enough to pronounce judgement. This authority created wicked Kings obssessed with themselves and driven by their own selfish desires. However, in spite of that three young men named Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego stood against the word of one of histories greatest ego maniacs and Daniel three gives the account of how it all went down. Nebuchadnezzar had a statue constructed in his image that stood over ninety feet high. This was all about his power and authority. It communicated to everyone that he was large and in charge, bigger than life but not only did it display his power, it also displayed his wealth. The statue was made of pure gold. Imagine how intimidating this statue was to everyone who saw it. It reminded them that Nebuchadnezzar was more powerful than them, wealthier than them and that he ruled in authority over them. That's the reason everyone assembled in the plain of Dura after receiving the King's command. Imagine how anxious he was to watcheveryone bow before his image. He had been dreaming of this day. He had every detail carefully planned. There were soldiers present to intimidate anyone who thought of rebelling, there were musicians rehearsed and ready, it was all completely planned. Finally the instruments sounded and everyone fell with their faces to the ground it was Nebuchadnezzar's dream come true. However, it was all ruined when he noticed there were three who hadn't bowed. Three who had the courage to stand against peer pressure, three who stood against the culture and three who weren't lured into conformity, and it wasn't like their decision to rebel was hidden in obscurity. When Nebuchadnezzar received word they had refused to bow he had them brought before everyone. Think for a moment how angry he was to realize there were men who had the courage to defy him and ruin the day he had planned for himself. So in an attempt to maintain his image of complete authority he explains to them the purpose of the music and the response he expects. He even threatens them with the "fiery furnance". See him pointing to the furnance and screaming i'll have you thrown in for humiliating me, nobody defies King Nebuchadnezzar. That mental image makes Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego's response priceless. They completely ignore the Kings power and they acknowledge God as their great deliverer. When King Nubuchadnezzar heard them ascribe power to God he was so angry he commanded the heat of the furnance be increased and he threw them in. The story ends with God honoring their committment to live counter culturally and delivering them. Oh that God would create a passion in us to be like Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego. To stand against an intimidating culture and purpose in our hearts to live godly. If we do it will get heated sometimes. Some people will even try to intimidate us, but ultimately God will be our deliverer. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=199760http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=199760 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 03:00:00 GMT <br _moz_editor_bogus_node="TRUE" /> http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=199233http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=199233 Sat, 13 Feb 2010 23:00:00 GMT <br _moz_editor_bogus_node="TRUE" /> http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=197808http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=197808 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:00:00 GMT <br _moz_editor_bogus_node="TRUE" /> http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=196841http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=196841 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:00:00 GMT This is just a note to encourage you to watch the <a href="http://www.hope4today.net/10430/content/content_id/196776/Power_of_100" target="_blank">Power of 100 video</a>. However, my encouragement doesn't end with encouraging you to watch but I also want you to share. Share because it's the right thing to do, share because it's more blessed to give than receive and share because Christ calls us to represent Him on the earth. Please take a moment to watch the video and <strong>post a comment</strong> about how the video makes you feel. <strong>Post a comment</strong> so we have a conversation about what it means to help. This is just a note to encourage you to watch the Power of 100 video . However, my encouragement doesn't end with encouraging you to watch but I also want you to share. Share because it's the right thing to do, share because it's more blessed to give than receive and share because Christ calls us to represent Him on the earth. Please take a moment to watch the video and post a comment about how the video makes you feel. Post a comment so we have a conversation about what it means to help. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=195877http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=195877 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:00:00 GMT This past week my family had the privilege to experience one of the highlights of our year by going on our annual cruise to somewhere warmer. It's always fun spending that time with so many of our friends from Blessed Hope. Once again Sunday's service on the boat was a blessing, and there were several who said they desperately needed the message on dealing with life's storms. The food was wonderful but excessive, and the being pampered is something you could easily get used too. However, all week long I was constantly dealing with thoughts about all of those who are suffering around the world. While things are great in our world, others are currently dealing with the worst crisis of their lives. That doesn't mean we can't enjoy life and it doesn't mean we shouldn't experience an enjoyable vacation. What it does mean is that we shouldn't live our lives for ourselves completely unaware of other's pain. Everyday of our lives seems like a dream to the majority of the world and yet for some reason we seem dedicated to complaining, and the reason we complain is because we're really not in touch with the needs of others. It doesn't matter that they're hundreds of miles away. If they matter to God (and they do) they should matter to us, and that should motivate us to respond. I encourage everyone to visit the <em>website churches helping </em>churches ...... Also find out more about the homeless widow in Belize with six children and find out how you can help. Making a difference in the lives of others is a great way to show Jesus how much you love Him.  This past week my family had the privilege to experience one of the highlights of our year by going on our annual cruise to somewhere warmer. It's always fun spending that time with so many of our friends from Blessed Hope. Once again Sunday's service on the boat was a blessing, and there were several who said they desperately needed the message on dealing with life's storms. The food was wonderful but excessive, and the being pampered is something you could easily get used too. However, all week long I was constantly dealing with thoughts about all of those who are suffering around the world. While things are great in our world, others are currently dealing with the worst crisis of their lives. That doesn't mean we can't enjoy life and it doesn't mean we shouldn't experience an enjoyable vacation. What it does mean is that we shouldn't live our lives for ourselves completely unaware of other's pain. Everyday of our lives seems like a dream to the majority of the world and yet for some reason we seem dedicated to complaining, and the reason we complain is because we're really not in touch with the needs of others. It doesn't matter that they're hundreds of miles away. If they matter to God (and they do) they should matter to us, and that should motivate us to respond. I encourage everyone to visit the website churches helping churches ...... Also find out more about the homeless widow in Belize with six children and find out how you can help. Making a difference in the lives of others is a great way to show Jesus how much you love Him. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=194496http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=194496 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 17:00:00 GMT How often are we really thankful for grace? If you're not really sure what grace is you really can't appreciate it's value can you? The easiest definition is simply, "the unmerited favor of God". God lovingly giving us what we could never earn or deserve. Grace isn't a reward, it isn't compensation for services rendered, it's a gift. That's why we should be thankful, and we shouldn't be able to help but be thankful when we realize the great worth of this gift.  (Ephesians 2 : 8 - 9)  We're saved by grace.  That means our relationship with Jesus, the forgiveness of our sins and the promise of eternal life in heaven (not in hell) are all the result of grace. (II Cor. 12 : 9) Points us to grace to find strength when life becomes painful. When we feel like giving up we rest in the reality that "God's grace is sufficient" for the trial we're facing. That doesn't mean grace makes the trial easy but it means God's strength makes the trial bearable. With His help we can come out on the other side, and while we're struggling because of grace we can also pray with the assurance that God is listening. (Heb. 4 : 16) Encourages us to approach God with confidence, and like you I think that sounds a little frightening. How can someone as undeserving as me approach someone as awesome as Him? It's because His throne is a place of grace. When I pray He gracefully listens, and rather than giving me what I deserve He treats me to blessings I could never deserve. No wonder the song writer penned the words, "Amazing Grace". How often are we really thankful for grace? If you're not really sure what grace is you really can't appreciate it's value can you? The easiest definition is simply, "the unmerited favor of God". God lovingly giving us what we could never earn or deserve. Grace isn't a reward, it isn't compensation for services rendered, it's a gift. That's why we should be thankful, and we shouldn't be able to help but be thankful when we realize the great worth of this gift. (Ephesians 2 : 8 - 9) We're saved by grace. That means our relationship with Jesus, the forgiveness of our sins and the promise of eternal life in heaven (not in hell) are all the result of grace. (II Cor. 12 : 9) Points us to grace to find strength when life becomes painful. When we feel like giving up we rest in the reality that "God's grace is sufficient" for the trial we're facing. That doesn't mean grace makes the trial easy but it means God's strength makes the trial bearable. With His help we can come out on the other side, and while we're struggling because of grace we can also pray with the assurance that God is listening. (Heb. 4 : 16) Encourages us to approach God with confidence, and like you I think that sounds a little frightening. How can someone as undeserving as me approach someone as awesome as Him? It's because His throne is a place of grace. When I pray He gracefully listens, and rather than giving me what I deserve He treats me to blessings I could never deserve. No wonder the song writer penned the words, "Amazing Grace". http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193553http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193553 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:00:00 GMT My heart is still heavy after yesterday's message. I realize at this point the future of Blessed Hope and the measure of our impact will be determined by our willingness to "set our hands to the work". The cultural walls that need to be restored are enormous, the needs in people's lives around us seem endless, and yet so much could be done to help if everyone would do their part. The people of Jerusalem realized the weight of the responsibility, but they also realized the consequences of doing nothing. It is my prayer that God would help us reach that point. The place where doing nothing isn't an option we can live with, the place where serving takes on a new level of significance in our lives. How long will we continue to live life for ourselves? It always produces emptiness and it's always really short lived. Putting your hands to the work of God gives you the opportunity to put a stone in place that has eternal value. <br /> My heart is still heavy after yesterday's message. I realize at this point the future of Blessed Hope and the measure of our impact will be determined by our willingness to "set our hands to the work". The cultural walls that need to be restored are enormous, the needs in people's lives around us seem endless, and yet so much could be done to help if everyone would do their part. The people of Jerusalem realized the weight of the responsibility, but they also realized the consequences of doing nothing. It is my prayer that God would help us reach that point. The place where doing nothing isn't an option we can live with, the place where serving takes on a new level of significance in our lives. How long will we continue to live life for ourselves? It always produces emptiness and it's always really short lived. Putting your hands to the work of God gives you the opportunity to put a stone in place that has eternal value. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193374http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193374 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:00:00 GMT Moments ago I had the privilege to welcome 2010 with my 9 year old on one knee and my six year old on the other knee. As soon as the ball dropped cameras focused on people sharing a New Year's kiss. The girls immediately started showering me with one kiss after another. It was a special moment and the creation of a special memory. I can't help but think how wonderful God is to have blessed me with the gift of family. He really has been sooooo good to me. This past year I experienced some health issues that placed me in a bed at Duke University Medical Center, but even in the midst of that God was still good. He really deserves to be showered with our "kisses" of appreciation. Not that we can physically kiss Him, but that we would take time to express real appreciation for His goodness in our lives. It is my hope that 2010 will be a great year for all of you, and that you would be more committed than ever to closely follow Jesus. Happy New Year!! Moments ago I had the privilege to welcome 2010 with my 9 year old on one knee and my six year old on the other knee. As soon as the ball dropped cameras focused on people sharing a New Year's kiss. The girls immediately started showering me with one kiss after another. It was a special moment and the creation of a special memory. I can't help but think how wonderful God is to have blessed me with the gift of family. He really has been sooooo good to me. This past year I experienced some health issues that placed me in a bed at Duke University Medical Center, but even in the midst of that God was still good. He really deserves to be showered with our "kisses" of appreciation. Not that we can physically kiss Him, but that we would take time to express real appreciation for His goodness in our lives. It is my hope that 2010 will be a great year for all of you, and that you would be more committed than ever to closely follow Jesus. Happy New Year!! http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193213http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193213 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:00:00 GMT What about your life would change if you committed to closely follow Jesus in 2010?<br /> If you're thinking nothing or not much neither of those are optional answers. Following Jesus always produces change! Fisherman are transformed into disciples, tax collectors restored what they had taken wrongfully, adulteresses became witnesses and murderers became preachers. What would you become if you followed? The goal is to become more like Him, but the only way that can happen is if we spend time with Him. The journey begins when we commit our lives which is actually our time to Him, and knowing He gave His life for us makes giving our lives to Him really seems small. However, giving your life away is difficult. You will constantly find yourself holding on, feeling entitled to keep all of it for yourself. If you follow that desire you'll be living a life that seems empty and without purpose. I'm sure that's not what you want to see when you look back over 2010 so commit this year to following and experience Jesus molding you into His image.<br /> What about your life would change if you committed to closely follow Jesus in 2010? If you're thinking nothing or not much neither of those are optional answers. Following Jesus always produces change! Fisherman are transformed into disciples, tax collectors restored what they had taken wrongfully, adulteresses became witnesses and murderers became preachers. What would you become if you followed? The goal is to become more like Him, but the only way that can happen is if we spend time with Him. The journey begins when we commit our lives which is actually our time to Him, and knowing He gave His life for us makes giving our lives to Him really seems small. However, giving your life away is difficult. You will constantly find yourself holding on, feeling entitled to keep all of it for yourself. If you follow that desire you'll be living a life that seems empty and without purpose. I'm sure that's not what you want to see when you look back over 2010 so commit this year to following and experience Jesus molding you into His image. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193014http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=193014 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 22:00:00 GMT In just a few days 2009 will quickly move from current to past. Each time we refer to 2009 it will be past tense. It's amazing that 365 days can vanish so quickly, but almost as quickly as a year arrives it disappears. Scripture says, life is nothing more than a vapor that appears and vanishes away. That in itself should be a challenge. A challenge to see today as critically important. "Just waisting time" is unacceptable because time waisted can't be gotten back. It's gone! And it's not that resting is wrong, but even our rests can have purpose. Waisting time is living with no real sense of purpose and for a child of God that's unnecessary. Living a life that intentionally glorifies Jesus Christ is overshadowed by purpose. The highest purpose in the world. So critically important that days are dedicated to Him knowing that an account will be given to Him of our days. And for 2009 what should have been, what we wish would have been, all of that's past. 2009 is History!  By the way that means tomorrow will be the last Sunday of the year and we should all pray it will be an incredible day  I also pray that 2010 will be your greatest year of discipleship.<br />   In just a few days 2009 will quickly move from current to past. Each time we refer to 2009 it will be past tense. It's amazing that 365 days can vanish so quickly, but almost as quickly as a year arrives it disappears. Scripture says, life is nothing more than a vapor that appears and vanishes away. That in itself should be a challenge. A challenge to see today as critically important. "Just waisting time" is unacceptable because time waisted can't be gotten back. It's gone! And it's not that resting is wrong, but even our rests can have purpose. Waisting time is living with no real sense of purpose and for a child of God that's unnecessary. Living a life that intentionally glorifies Jesus Christ is overshadowed by purpose. The highest purpose in the world. So critically important that days are dedicated to Him knowing that an account will be given to Him of our days. And for 2009 what should have been, what we wish would have been, all of that's past. 2009 is History! By the way that means tomorrow will be the last Sunday of the year and we should all pray it will be an incredible day I also pray that 2010 will be your greatest year of discipleship. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=192775http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=192775 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:00:00 GMT How wonderful is it that we're celebrating a white Christmas in Southside Virginia? For most of us this may be a once in a lifetime experience. I spoke with a 73 year old man who said he hadn't seen anything like this since he was a child. That should remind all of us just how special this is that we're actually enjoying a white Christmas. I'm also extremely thankful for the service yesterday. The music was amazing and the opportunity to point to the manger as God's expression of love for us was a blessing. I Jn. 4 should  help all of us to be confident in God's love for us. It's not our responsibility to earn His love, it's not our burden to maintain His love, but He's already made His love obvious by giving us His Son. That's a love so amazing i can't even comprehend it's depth. Yet it meets one of life's greatest needs. The need to be secure in love. How could I ever doubt God's love for me, how could you ever doubt God's love for you? Let's make this Christmas completely different. Let's let it be an obvious reminder that God loves us extravagantly.<br /> How wonderful is it that we're celebrating a white Christmas in Southside Virginia? For most of us this may be a once in a lifetime experience. I spoke with a 73 year old man who said he hadn't seen anything like this since he was a child. That should remind all of us just how special this is that we're actually enjoying a white Christmas. I'm also extremely thankful for the service yesterday. The music was amazing and the opportunity to point to the manger as God's expression of love for us was a blessing. I Jn. 4 should help all of us to be confident in God's love for us. It's not our responsibility to earn His love, it's not our burden to maintain His love, but He's already made His love obvious by giving us His Son. That's a love so amazing i can't even comprehend it's depth. Yet it meets one of life's greatest needs. The need to be secure in love. How could I ever doubt God's love for me, how could you ever doubt God's love for you? Let's make this Christmas completely different. Let's let it be an obvious reminder that God loves us extravagantly. http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=192401http://www.hope4today.net/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10430&entry_id=192401 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 22:00:00 GMT <br /> <br /> <br /> Blessed Hope, This video is incredible! Pastor Matt Chandler is someone God has used not only in my life, but in pastor's lives all over America. The Village Church has become one of the strongest churches in the country since Matt became pastor. A few months ago I had an opportunity to hear him in person and I was both blessed and challenged. Unfortunately this blog post is titled please pray. A week ago Matt found out that he had a brain tumor in his frontal lobe. Today the pathology report revealed the tumor is malignant. Doctors also said they weren't able to remove the entire tumor and they're now considering the best treatment options. Matt has a wife and small children, including a baby born just this year. God knows Matt's story but it would be wonderful to see this great servant of God's health restored. Please remember the Chandlers and the Village Church in prayer. Blessed Hope, This video is incredible! Pastor Matt Chandler is someone God has used not only in my life, but in pastor's lives all over America. The Village Church has become one of the strongest churches in the country since Matt became pastor. A few months ago I had an opportunity to hear him in person and I was both blessed and challenged. Unfortunately this blog post is titled please pray. A week ago Matt found out that he had a brain tumor in his frontal lobe. Today the pathology report revealed the tumor is malignant. Doctors also said they weren't able to remove the entire tumor and they're now considering the best treatment options. Matt has a wife and small children, including a baby born just this year. God knows Matt's story but it would be wonderful to see this great servant of God's health restored. Please remember the Chandlers and the Village Church in prayer.