BLAH BLAH BLAH....

Emily woke up this morning sick and I think after watching her for a few hours this morning she gave me whatever she had. I am praying for recovery of this bug thing ASAP! Atleast it's friday and I can go home and go to bed.

Human Reasoning or Heavenly Revelation

While listening to a sermon by a dear friend and brother in Christ this morning. Over the past few weeks I have be wondering why is it that Christ allows churches the run in the way they do. I am once again contacted this week about another church that closed it's doors this past Sunday. I heard just this past week how it is ranked for 2011 85% of churches from all dons and backgrounds are dieing or dead churches. Wow 85%!! That seems so high but as I attend many churches through out the Southeast I start to believe that it really could be true. In the area we currently live there is 1 church for every 30 people. I am blown away by that. It seems even with so many churches in one area that is such a big need not for more churches but an awaking that is bigger then ourselves and own doing but by the powerful Holy Spirit. It's funny over the past few weeks and even month I have been listening to a few current church sermons and I am shocked how most all of the the churches I have heard or seen are talking about God's Vision. I am not sure if there is a memo going around to each pastor or if the Lord is preparing churches for something coming. I think this past week I heard the same sermon preached about four times all from differant pastors, churches and all in differant ways. I great to see how the Lord is moving not only in our area but all over the world. Even in these times we have many people who are still living by Human reasoning and it seems to always get in the way of God's movment however God is greater and we can make the choice to listen to those things that get in the way or move forward with a Heavenly Revelation.I could go on and on but I won't for now. Pushing Play to the story of God!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Trip to the City...

This week we got a new 2011 Jeep with only 3,000 Miles on it.. Great ride I so wanted to go off road with it but Debbie wouldn't let me. I think Emily wanted to go with me however... LOL

Sunday at NPCC Live

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,

and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

- Mark 10:45 TNIV

Changes... The Smell What a Wonderful word!

Well there seems to be great changes to the campus of PBC. It starting to feel clean and starting to feel it's having a bigger purpose them just for sundays. It's great to see churches enbracing change. Over the many years in ministry I have seem so many church set back and keep doing what they do for years and years not knowing where they are going or even why they are doing what they are doing. The only thing they know is they have done it the same way for years before and thats why they do what they do. But anyway thats another long post in it's self. So debbie is over with her girls small group taking over the house for the night and I am over at a friends house doing some work for in the morning. I have much moreing work to be done so I am off but before i go I wanted to show this video form a church I have know the pastor at and found this video to be very good.
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Happy Friday!

~Happy Friday~
Happy Firday, This morning I am busy working on stuff media stuff for this weeks up and coming Sunday night meeting that will be taking place on campus here at PBC in Guyton, GA.
But in other news I was asked by one of my pastor friends to post my outline notes from Pastors Healing Conference.


How to Keep From Getting Hurt in a Church

(1) Avoid developing unreasonable expectations of the church — “My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him” (Psa. 62:5).


(2) Don’t place an absolute trust in people — “Thus says the LORD: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD” (Jer. 17:5).


(3) Focus on common ground — “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10).

(4) Don’t expect any church to be perfect — “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.” (Rom. 7:18-19)

(5) Don’t seek to promote yourself or your own agenda — “Do not lift up your horn on high; Do not speak with a stiff neck. For exaltation comes neither from the east Nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, And exalts another” (Psa. 75:5-7).


(6) Avoid blaming the church for personal problems — “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3).

(7) Treat others as you wish to be treated — “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12).

(8) Have a teachable, cooperative attitude — “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you” (Heb. 13:17).



(9) Don’t oppose or hinder the church — “These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren” (Prov. 6:16-19).

(10) Be committed to forthrightness and truth — “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. “But if he will not hear you, take with you one or two more, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector” (Matt. 18:15-17).


(11) Be devoted to love and forgiveness — “He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him” (1 John 2:10).


(12) Don’t get caught up in the offenses of others — “Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend” (Psa. 15:1-3).


(13) Don’t personalize everything that’s preached — Obviously, every pastor preaches with the hope that everyone will take the message personally and apply it to his or her own life. “If the shoe fits, wear it.” However, there are always a few who think the minister is pointing his sermon specifically at them. This is a common misunderstanding which causes persons to get hurt.

Hope that helps in many ways and may the Lord light your path in your ministry

In His Grip,
Pastor J

It's Not about YOU!

not long ago I picked up this book by a Student Pastor I met a few years back, Jonathan Mckee. In His book titled Connect, "real relationships in the world of isolation" I have to laugh as this is something I have been preaching and teaching for many years. If you have known me for any short time you would know I use the word "Connect" daily. I have learned over the past two years living in smaller towns that this word is something new as well as small groups. I believe one of the best ways to connect to students or any of God's people are within the context of a small group. Again this is something I have been stating for many years. It funny to see how new this is to some church bodies and areas within the USA. It's great to see over these past few years how people at getting on board with this and How God is working. It's all about relationships (Hello I just said the KEY word here)with students that go beyond the youth(or Student) room. It's hard at time teaching and coaching leaders over the years that have a view that student ministry is all about the "Yes Lords", The Prayers, the Bible readings, the Churchy Stuff and that it's much more. It's about thinking out side the box. (a side note on that... I have learned that most people don't really iknow what thinking out side the box really means) I think over time people took ministry and created what worked for them not understanding that ministry was not about creating around the people but ministry was the people. Oh how I could go on and on about this topic but I will stop before I brake someones toes. In a short on the other hand..... Jonathan Mckee book "Connect" is a great book that I hope opens many people eyes to this idea I have been teaching for many years!

In His Grip,

Busy Week but taking time to stop!

Today we mourn another one of our local students... we keep family and friends in much needed prayer over the next few weeks. May this event bring them to the feet of Christ!

One of the greatess lies told by staten in life is we are unlovable, unholy, nothing but, pointless.

Did your know God has a great plan for your life. God has created us in His image Genesis 1:26-27. He created us for a purpose. God has a specific plan in mind for everyone.God's plan is for life, not death. The Word (Bible) says that both physical and spiritual death are the result of our sin and disobedience to God, but eternal life is a gift to those who receive it. Jesus taught that death and destruction are the work of “the thief” (Satan). He said, The thief comes only to steal and destroy..
John 8:44 says that Satan is a “murderer” and the “father of lies.” The feelings of despair that lead to suicide are caused by some of his lies. wants us to have life. God said: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" -John 10:10
5.Life belongs to God. It is never our place to take our own life or someone else's life. "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body" -1 Corinthians 6:19-20

There is hope!
"We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you" -Psalms 33:20-22

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Study Break!

Coffee Shop Day!!! OH YEAH!

Saturday Football and Peanuts!

My football stats for today:

TN 23 vs. FL 33

SC 24 vs. Navy 21

NC 28 vs. VA 17

Great day today for the most part... The weather was SO nice. I woke up to windows opened and A/C off. I the washer put in, as the one we had went out this past week. We hope to have someone check out getting a new motor for it. It's only a 1 1/2 old so it's really not that old of a washer. In other news My TN Vols played a good game vs. Fl however we didn't beat them and I didn't think we would. But hold on my South Carolina boys know how to giver a beating to those Navy dudes! Over all this has started out to be a great year for my teams in the world of college football. Maybe we can hold strong and end a great year.

In other news it was great to get out of the house some today and enjoy some fellowship with a few older members of PBC. It was great to connect with some people we aren't always able to speak to with all the busy run-a-arounds during sundays and weekly serivces. I think Emily ate over a pound in peanuts tonight... yummmy they are some good eating. Well thats it for today! Lets hope and prayer this weather stays around for a long time!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Home Sweet Home

With working on Thursday of this week I am able to take off today!
Time to relax or atleast try.

~Coffee Cafe~

Had a great cup of coffee this morning and then it seemed that everyone I mean everyone even my phone wanted to pull me do this or doing that... So after some time trying to have a meeting with one of my interns I had to change the environment and get out for a while. I did just that. We went to the coffee shop in town and worked on getting some things done. It was great to be able to get out and be in a place that smells SO good. I didn't get any coffee however I did get a yummy cup of tea. Next time I will be sure to get a cup of coffee. With free Internet and a good place to sit to get some work done, it all reminded me of the great days I had living in the city and when we went to the coffee cafe for our church staff meetings and the time we did small group a jammin java. Oh what a great time that was. The best part was I got so much work done. From making needed calls to emails to working on the next few months planning events and even my next sermon series. I did get some great ideas for redoing my office. I got some great ideas for what kind of paint to use and colors I really like. I just need to find the best layout now for my desk, and place to redo my books. It will be good to get this blah blue out. I feel every where I look it's nothing but blue.... Someone must have liked blue. LOL Well off to do other things!
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Happy Wedenday Morning...

So I was able to sleep in this morning and boy did I need it. However my day is now half over and so much to do. So I will keep this post short today but I did want to share with you a old song that was record a while back with Nick. Enjoy.
In His Grip,
-Pastor J

Here are the Song lyrics:

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's a light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Him
And all the things of this earth
They will grow strangely dim

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
Over us sin no more hath dominion—
For more than conquerors we are!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Him
And all the things of this earth
They will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
If you'll look full in His wonderful face

His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!

Worship...

One of the best vineyard songs I have heard. I came across this song again today and had to share for todays blog post. It reminds me how small we are and how great our God really is. It also makes me miss worship at VCA. Enjoy

Monday Morning Coffee

Or should I say afternoon coffee. Some Monday mornings are slow and some like today are faster then others. Today I feel like I have been able to a lot done even within the few hours I have been working. I have lots more to do and feel I will be ahead in the week by the end of today… Lets just hope and pray that is really how it stands by then. So I am on a few projects one this new vide project with PBC. I am filming a welcome Info CD that will be given to people as a welcome gift. Who doesn’t like free gifts and even in this world today who doesn’t like cool CDs and media stuff.  I hope to have filming done by the end of next week, so I can start on editing and studio work. The long and boring parts. LOL

So on if you know we very well you would know I love change and in my book of life change is always a good thing. So this month I am thinking about changing around my office once again. I am not liking the layout. One due to it’s just small and too I so dislike the color. After our makeover project with the student center we have paint left over. So I might throw some paint up to give the room a fresh look. I also need to think about some of the fruni (or furniture)  in the room to give it a nicer and home feel. My goal is to have a small group meet my office weekly. I have a few ideas of what I can do. One idea is to what we had at NPCC with a closed smaller desk and them while sitting area. I think the biggest thing will be trying to rethink this massive filing system. Who knows I will come up with something. Well back to more important things like coloring, spinning around in my chair all day… Okay so I don’t really do that but hey wouldn’t it be fun if I could. Well maybe not but hey at least it something. Okay I am honest this time back to event and focus planning.  

In His Grip,

Pastor J

A Day we remember but a God we forgot!

So it’s this day 10 years ago we stood at the shock of the attacks on the USA. I can remember it as if it was last week. People of all backgrounds colors and beliefs went seeking Christ and God like no other. But it seems over time God faded away and people got back to their lives without Christ. There is so much I could say on my ideas and beliefs on what I think really happen. And yes that puts me on the conspiracy theories wagon but again we all have the freedom of what we want to think. But anyway I will save all the blah and fuss and get to the heart of what today is about. Christ and only Christ. We will always keep in mind the day the world stopped but even more importantly We will remember how powerful God really is even in the hard times.

In other news It has been great to spend Sunday night with the family. It has become very rare we get any time with family on sundays as we are always on the go with church here church there and doing so much. It's a great reminder to the fact that we can do so much for God we without to spend time with Him.. But again thats another story in it's self.
God is Good!
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Game Day!

Football joke of the Day:

Why did the Georgia players miss their

flight for the big game?

They were stuck on a broken escalator.

Great job to all my teams today and Wow what a great game gamecocks. I am happy to say I am from South Carolina.

Here is the line up for today:

Tennessee 45 vs. Cincinnati 23
South Carolina 45 vs. Georgia 42
North Carolina 24 vs. Rutgers 22

There and Back again!

Debbie and I enjoyed our trip to August this week. It was great to be able to go with her as most of the weeks I have to stay home with the kids or even have to work. We were blessed to have family watch both the kids for the day while we got to spend some time doing interviews and signing some new families. One of the best things about getting to go is we got to get a rental on the company once again this week. Last week I could not go. With the crappy cars we own they don't do very well on the road for long trips anymore and for only $35 we can get new cars to drive for the day. This week we got to get a new HHR silver however while in Augusta we had a computer issue with the tire thing so we traded the car in for another HHR but it was white. I like white car better anyway. I think the kids enjoyed the trip as well and I know they sure enjoyed playing with with other kids for the day. We ended the night at a nice restaurant were we signed on our new HR Manager. I think she will be great for what we need. It will allow me to keep my mind on church stuff while Debbie and her can work together on needed things with the company.

Well it's Friday and you know what that mean... the end of the week and time to clean up my desk so I can start fresh come Monday morning. I have been thinking again (that's never a good thing LOL) I need to redo my office. we have some left over paint and I would love to see it a different color. to be honest there is so much blue in this church I feel like I could ...... Never mind. I will keep that to myself but anyway I would like to redo some things in it and I would love a different desk. maybe L-shape that would take up less room and a better place to put me books is way needed. Maybe I will think of some more ideas later next week. Oh well back to real work

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Truth in Churches!

It's sad how very true this kind of Worship is.. Even within our churches do we see a great movement of The Me God, The Me Church, The Me Worship.... The Video yes is funny but it gives us a real outword truth of how our churches and the people of God are dieing. As the days and months move along I see more and more people who are living thier lives going to work, going school, going home. Living one day to the next with the mind set that God made all this for ME. Worship leaders, George, Doug and Melissa did a great job doing this illustration about Worship. When are we going to start the movement that's greater then ourselves and greater then the world. When will it be about HIM and only HIM!

In His Grip,

Pastor J

Great Night!

Great Night at Diversity tonight. It's always great to connect with student of all ages, backgrounds and stories. We will plan another "Connect Night" in a few months

Diversity Student Ministries
Wednesdays @ 6:30 PM
On the Campus of PBC

www.Diversitystudentminsitries.org

"Missions Exists Because Worship Doesn't"

One of the greatess men of God shared this short video today. You may have heard me use the term "Missions Exists Because Worship Doesn't" This is where it can from.. I would love to attend the National Conference this year but have so much going on around here. Well it's Labor Day and that means a day off to spend with family and to leave all my issues and stress at the front door. We so need to go shopping this week so it seems tonight we order Pizza. Thank the Lord for the pizza person who had to work today. You make us a happy family. I will even tip today. Happy Labor Day to you all and may the Lord be the light unto your path! Yahhoooo!!! This is my 300th blog post!
In His Grip,
Pastor J

Stand in Christ nothing less!

"Too many Christians are settling for slavery, yet declaring freedom."

Today was a bit stressful. It's hard to see satan tearing things down before you. Our God is a big and great God. Even in times like these you have to look to nothing and noone but to Christ. I pick up my Sword and Shield and put on my armor and stand ready to take on the world for Christ.

I have to say Sunday School was good today.. I enjoyed the fellowship during lunch and lets not forget the big T-bone I had! The 1st impact drama team meeting today was great too. I can't wait to see what Christ is going to do with those great group of students. It's sad to see when good things happen how statan trys to steal the show. Oh well Not Today!

In His Grip,

-Pastor J 

Fancy Fridays…

So years ago I started this thing called Fancy Fridays where I would where a suit to work… Well after two kids later. having a jam-packed schedule and no A/C in my truck I have done away with the Fancy Fridays. So it has become jeans and a polo on Fridays and I am doing good to have them clean. Speaking of schedules guess what this Saturday is……. Football Kick off! and boy and I ready. Maybe my teams will be have a good year. Yes I have a few teams. I am the trader and can’t keep a fan of just the one team. But I do have my top LOL. So My plan is this weekend is to lay around eat chips and, wait we don’t buy chips.. On well, and watch Football. Yeah is sounds like a night lazy weekend. Now the truth is I have a do to list a mile long and have to get the grass cut as well as clean the truck and work more in my home office so yeah I don’t think there will be too much lying around. Oh well life will move forward. Till Next Week!

In His Grip

The Lazy minded Pastor J (sounds like a book)