Twenty-Eight Days

2008-10-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

OK, so where on the introvert/extrovert scale do you fall? If there is a 40 point scale with up to 20 points for introvert and up to 20 points for extrovert where do you think you would land? Here is what the scale might look like:

EXTROVERT 20------10-------0-------10------20 INTROVERT

Don't get super-spiritual on this - Jesus was probably balanced in the middle but to my horror - I ain't Jesus! Neither are you...you are how God made you,and it's all good.

I am such an introvert I get nervous in crowds and I get even nervous-er one-on-one with people whose name is not Cathy.(my significant other)

I wish I was more extroverted - gosh that sounds like a chemical deficiency - it would make life a lot easier, I think. But alas I am a bookworm, study-miester, non-party animal. (My wife says boring...)

Just know this - we introverts need extroverts to bring us from the backside of the moon back into reality. I love alone time and all that but my life is so much sweeter when someone makes me - what's the term----------talk. Yeah, that's it, talk.

By the way, extroverts need introverts to help them think stuff through. They can tend to think or act first then think about it later. That can make for interesting social gaffs (can you say Senator Biden?)

Truth is we need each other to have balance in our lives. Not that balance is everything - I have based a lot of my life on being somewhat unbalanced - you could call it my strategery for success(George Bush called and reminded me not to mis-underestimate the importance of clear communicatation.)

Anyhow, give some love to the extrovert(or introvert as the case may be) in your life - they are just wired a bit differently than you. But it's all good.

Now, back to my study of quantum physics and lunar dark sides.

Have a good one...

2008-10-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

My Harley is lonely. No kidding. It sits there when I walk by with a stack of books under my arm and just pouts. The dust on the saddlebags and tank is now thick enough to write and draw pictures in. You can push the dust into little piles and form your own personal Everest or Grand Canyon. Terrible...

That's the problem with life in the USA. Everybody is so busy with the urgent stuff they don't do the important stuff. Get up, get to work, get the kids to school, run the errands, pay the bills, do the dishes, mow the yard, buy the groceries, do the wash, fix the lawnmower, clean the car, clean the house, clean the office, fix the faucet, paint the fence, make the beds...

I did a memorial service for a sweet lady who belongs to a sweet family. Best of the best. Bestest of the bestest. They had pictures of all the stuff they did together - fishing in Alaska, Disneyworld, Colorado, Canada, and lots more. They played games together, did fireworks , cooked out, traveled all over and shared lots of laughs. I love that they did the IMPORTANT stuff together. Not just the urgent stuff. They have more memories than most people have dreams. Maybe that's the key - if you dream of doing the right stuff with the right people for the right reasons you'll actually wind up DOING some of it.

Resolved: I will do some important stuff with people I love - the tyranny of the urgent be blasted!!

I feel better already. How 'bout you?

That's my Harley you hear coughing into life. I think I sense a smile on my face.

Peace.

2008-10-22T05:44:00.000-07:00

Last three nights we joined several other churches for joint community services. What a blast. I learned some lessons from this I did not see coming:

1. It is cool meeting your 4th grade teacher again - she is still just as nice and still teaching 4th grade.
2. You can have a hand bell choir, a mass, multidenominational singing choir, a worship band, hymns, a drum line, responsive reading, high church, medium church, traditional church, comtemporary church and 3 sermons from 3 pastors from 3 denominations and it was all good - very good!
3. Chocolate chip cookies will bring people together - I suspect they will exist throughout eternity! World without end...Amen.
4. All people, all tribes, all tongues can love and worship God together and pray for the salvation of their city - and I think it thrills the heart of God.

Worshipping together the way we did the past few days is a prophesy of Heaven. Somehow I do not think we'll be separated by much, if anything, when we get there. Cool.

Have a good one...

2008-10-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

I am a child of the sixties - I remember the summer of love in 1967, I remember the JFK, MLK and RK assassinations. I remember the 60's college campus demonstrations and riots. I remember the Kent State Massacre. I had the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young recording of Woodstock. I remember when the Beatles were twenty and skinny and singing... If I Fell, HELP, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds, She Loves You, Yesterday and every other hit they made in the sixties and seventies.

I remember when Glen Campbell posed the musical question, "Galveston." I remember getting a "dollars worth of regular" at the gas station and knowing it would take you back and forth to work for about three days. I remember Dick Clark, IKE and Tina Turner, The Who, Chicago Transit Authority, The Association and the Mammas and the Poppas. I remember Lufkin, Texas pre-loop 287, pre-Mall, pre-El Chico, pre-Whataburger, Pre-(ohmigosh) McDonalds. I remember the Rock House Cafe, Beams, the Panther Drive-In, the Redland Drive-In, the Pines Theater, Sharkeys Market, Shifters, and watching color televison through a store window with my mouth open in amazement. Corvairs, Simcas, Belvedeers and Pacers were all cars best left in antiquity. In short - I'm older than dirt, grass and sliced bread.

But God is eternal. Whoa. No context for that. Eternal. That means He has never NOT been. I'm sure you get that but I can't get my brain wrapped around it. Lost too may brain cells in the seventies to think that one through. But one thing I know. He loves me. Not really sure how or why or what for. I'm just glad He does. By the way - He's nutty about you too. Thinks about you all the time... well, He's thinking about you now. Good thoughts, loving thoughts, eternal thoughts. Rest in that today. It's enough. It's a lot.

Wonder if God used to like to watch the chariot races back in 7 A.D.? Bet he did.

2008-10-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

It occurs to me that I have a talking problem. Oh, it's not that I talk too much - it's that I would rather not talk. It's the Great Stone Face Syndrome. I am blissfully content to listen, listen, listen as others speak or as no one speaks. Silence is Golden is the concept I tend to live by. I remember my mom telling me that as a small child I used to sit in a corner with a toy I liked and play for hours without making any noise. She was happy about that because I was easy to take care of and generally not a problem till I got hungry. At that point I would usually ask for the dinner menu and dessert list...and scream like a panther until I got fed.

Sometimes people speak to me at length and get very little or no response. After awhile they come to believe I have died. (Sometimes my wife tries to talk to me and realizes I may not be hearing her - she will say things like, "The pope just killed President Bush and has run off with Laura to the Bahamas." ...just to see if I blink or even burp. I have caught her checking my pulse numerous times.)

I know other people with talking problems. Usually they talk like a gatling gun shoots. No worry about aiming just FIRE and keep on FIRING. When everyone nearby is dead, reload and prepare to FIRE again. If you get 2 or 3 of these folks together at the same time it sounds like a a young war.

Some people are very determined to talk and make their point. Their mantra is, "If you can't make people understand what you are saying TALK LOUDER, especially if some one else tries to speak or make a different point." If people get charred along the way by pure volume, energy and superheated air, so be it. (Can you say political coverage on TV?)

Then there are the normal folks - most people I think - who can talk and listen equally well. My wife fits neatly in this group although she enjoys talking a bit more than listening. Don't mean to say shes not a good listener - I said 8 words last thursday and I believe she heard almost all of them. I'm just saying she has a talent for communicating (this is gonna cost me a bundle). Point is, she is normal and is used to both expressing herself and hearing others express themselves. People love to talk to her because she can actively listen and they to listen to her because she can express herself well one on one. She is the balance in most every area of my life.

What about prayer? It can't be just talking all the time (Rata-a-tat-tat-tat-tat-a-tat) or being quiet all the time (Huummmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...) God wants to speak to you and be spoken to. Its a two way street. Bear your soul - give Him your deepest needs and concerns, requests - your praise and worship. But let Him speak to you as well - learn to rest and wait on Him - He has a lot to say to you. Every day...

Enjoy your time with Jesus today - -and if you see me very still, place a mirror in front of my mouth and check for breathing...

2008-10-15T10:51:00.001-07:00

Its raining today in Springfield. One of those days when it's seems to be raining all over the world. Rain, rain, rain. A little softer, a little harder, a light mist and then a downpour that makes the metal roof our the school rumble like the thunder-rumble of an intense East Texas storm. When one of those thunderboomer storms comes through at night complete with flashing lightning and sudden, swooshing winds you feel like God must me really emotional right now...

Here's a silly question: Where does all that rain go?

Down the gutters, drainpipes and driveways, down the streets and culverts, down the ditches and creeks, down the rivers and eventually to a lake or even to the ocean. Carried along by the powerful surge of water is all the flotsom and jetsome of life - the dirt and filth and oil from the streets, the leaves and grass clippings, the chemical residue from over-fertilized yards and the assorted other junk that was clogging up everything everywhere. Rain is God's way of cleansing the world of all the garbage of mankind. After a sweet, cleansing downpour the world looks brighter, fresher and it sparkles with the sheen of cleansing.

That's what, in part, fasting and prayer does for us. We turn our fickle, sour, self-oriented hearts to God and say, "God cleanse me, refresh me, change me, use me." The Holy Spirit is God's precious rain that does the cleansing work in our hearts.

In a larger sense the flood of God's Spirit in our world from fasting and prayer crashes through the dams and obstructions the enemy has erected to prevent God's will from happening. The result is souls saved, bodies healed, clarity in decisions, breakthrough in relationships. Your fasting is having powerful effect on the world.

Let God pour rain into your soul this month - your life will be refreshed and our church and city will be renewed as well.

2008-10-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

Monday was a long day of travel for me. Drive to Shreveport, fly to Atlanta, layover 2 hours, fly to Springfield (finish that last required text on the plane), get your luggage, wait an hour and 15 minutes at the rental car counter 'cause the guy is new and doesn't understand the computer, drive to the hotel, in the room at 11 p.m., asleep by 12:30 a.m., up and in class at 8 a.m.

Is that what your day feels like? My impression is that life is jogging faster than my little brain can jog. I meet myself coming back too often. My get up n' go has got up and went. Tuesday seems to get there before Monday is done. I am thinking of calling President Bush and ask for 250 billion hour bail out! Maybe congress can vote on it (no, theres not enough time for that!)

Look, don't let life run over you like Ike blowing through Galveston - it will if you let it. Even Jesus left the crowds and took a nap once in awhile. He's well-known for snoozing in the back of fishing boats. As a friend told me a few days ago, "you're climbing a high, rocky mountain - you'll make it if you learn to rest on the plateaus along the way!" Good advice.

Plan a little YOU time this week - some R&R, a holiday, vacation, nap-time, bike ride, hot bath, cold shower, the alone-zone----you get the picture. God never wanted you to destroy your self - He gets no Glory from that. He would rather you laugh more and stress less. We all have lots to do that has to get done - that will likely never change. But enjoying the ride is something you have to plan to do because it will not happen if you do not plan.

Face it - you're worth it - valuable and special to God - Trust me - He treats His stuff very well (...consider the lilies of the field?) He wants you to treat YOU well, too.

Nuff said.

Did I make my reservations for class next month? Oooops.

2008-10-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a really good weekend. All three of our services were powerful and several people came to Christ. The worship was very good. The preaching was...well...not bad. I enjoyed talking with lots of friends and also some new folks I had not met before. Good weekend.

Cowboys gave one away...

There's no doubt the highlight for me was before I preached in the 11 a.m. service. At the altar call a bunch of folks came down to get things right with Jesus. I like to think that altar calls on Sundays make Jesus smile. If there's one thing I want to do it's make Jesus smile.

I think He was smiling when He looked up in the Sycamore tree and saw Zachaeus straining to hang on a limb and get a good look at God. Imagine that. A short guy in a robe and sandals trying to climb a tree. Mercy. One of my childhood buds was David Freeze. He could limb a tree like a cat squirrel. We had a two good climbing trees in our front yard at 313 Alton Street. He would climb to the top every time he came over. I didn't climb trees back then - still don't - has to do with the terminal velocity a chubby kid (or man) can reach when falling from a twenty foot high tree limb. Not a pretty thought. I learned to be patient and have a ham sandwich while David was swinging from limb to limb like Tarzan. If he took too long I could always take a nap...but I digress.

Jesus smiled at Zack because He was about to change his life forever. Radically change his life. That's why we are fasting and praying these 28 days. We have a chance to position hundreds or even thousands of folks face to face with God so that He can radically change their lives. The DAY OF HOPE and ONE DAY will be here in 27 more days. I urge you to write down a name of someone you want to invite or better yet bring to LFA that weekend. Maybe several someones. Pray for that person and invite them. As I heard a preacher say today - we can't save them but we know who can and will.

Have a great Monday and think of Jesus smiling at you.

2008-10-11T06:41:00.000-07:00

Today we are starting 28 days of fasting together. Every time we do this I get excited about the possible breakthroughs that will happen in our church and the lives of people we are trying to reach. That gets me pumped!

The DAY of HOPE is a month from today (Saturday) on our campus. Imagine hundreds of people on our parking lot listening to music, watching puppet shows, getting shoes and coats for their families, eating hot dogs and lots of other fun stuff. It will be a blast. Did I mention hot dogs?

The very next day is our Big Day. I am calling it ONE DAY. Have you noticed that usually when a change happens in your life you can remember one day or even one decision that made the change happen. And the future changed dramatically from that moment? I remember the day I decided to ask Cathy to marry me. I didn't expect her to say Yes but she surprised me! Next thing I knew a pastor was asking me all those "till death do you part" questions. Whew! That's pressure. It's been a wild ride ever since but we've had a great time and she's the best wife ever. I am Andy Salagaj and I approved this message...

As you fast think about who you could bring to the Day of HOPE or ONE DAY weekend - it could just the biggest day in their life if they meet Jesus that day.

Did I mention we're having hot dogs?

2008-01-26T07:26:00.000-08:00

Day 18

Rom 12:2 Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is. NLT

On December 7, 1941 the Japanese Imperial Navy and Air Force thrust America into World War II by attacking our Naval Base at Pearl Harbor. It wasn't pretty. The U.S. Fleet's Pearl Harbor base was reachable by an aircraft carrier force, and the Japanese Navy secretly sent one across the Pacific with greater aerial striking power than had ever been seen on the World's oceans. Its planes hit just before 8AM. Within a short time five of eight battleships at Pearl Harbor were sunk or sinking, with the rest damaged. Several other ships and most Hawaii-based combat planes were also knocked out and over 2400 Americans were dead. Pearl Harbor became the first American battlefield of World War II.

Such an attack had to have been planned carefully to succeed. The Japanese caught the US military off guard and won an important, if incomplete, victory. History records how the US and her allies mounted an amazing comeback and ultimately won the war but the Pearl Harbor battle remains one of the most chilling and somber moments in US History.

Every Christian has a battlefield on which most of the battles we face in life take place. Our mind - will, emotions, intellect,thoughts, dreams, memories, heart - is the critical element in living a victorious life. Every battle is fought there first, regardless of the situation. Someone said that every sin is committed twice - once in the mind or heart and once in the flesh. The key to a clean life is to be very careful what you allow your mind to dwell on. Paul says we must "renew" our minds or reprogram our thinking by studying and living by the Word of God. The Holy Spirit is by our side, helping us with this process and He will guide us through this re-learning effort.

The Psalmist said it another way:

Prov 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. NIV

Before 2008 gets moving too fast, inspect the thoughts and intentions of your heart. Success or trouble in this new year will begin there. And by the help of the Holy Spirit it will be success!

Have a great day,
Pastor Andy

2008-01-24T13:08:00.000-08:00

Day 17

2 Kings 2:9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, "Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?" "Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit," Elisha replied. NIV

Elisha was bold - almost too bold. The servant shouldn't say to his master, "I want twice what you have." His statement of desire was definitely thinking "out of the box". Elijah had the most illustrious career of any prophet Israel had ever seen. Miracles, healings, prophecy, spiritual authority - He had seen it all and done it all in a way that no other prophet ever had. Now here was Elisha asking for a double portion. How could he ask for such a thing! Even Elijah realized Elisha was skating out on thin ice.

"You have asked a difficult thing," Elijah said, realizing that Elisha had no clue what he was getting himself into.

The truth is Elisha wasn't arrogant or starry-eyed. He was just wanting more. My feeling is that God loves people who want more - people who don't mind dreaming about impossible things - people who have a dream or vision about great things. The Bible is full of people who dreamed big dreams. Nehemiah dreamed of a wall around Jerusalem. Solomon dreamed of a Temple for God. Moses dreamed of leading a free nation out of bondage to Egypt. Esther dreamed of saving her people from destruction. One thing is for sure - if you dream tiny dreams you will likely get tiny results. But, if you dare to dream big - God may just take you up on the dream and position you for a miracle.

Dream a big dream today. If God willing to do something big in Elisha's life - He is just as willing to work miracle in yours.

God Bless You,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-23T13:17:00.000-08:00

Day 16

Ps 1:3 And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,Which yields its fruit in its season,And its leaf does not wither;And in whatever he does, he prospers. NAS

As I look out my window in late January I can see a world dominated by the browns, tans and grays of mid-winter. Very few signs of life are visible when you peer into the forest this time of year. The occasional squirrel hops by or the gentle swoop of a few birds but not much else. However, under winters' black-and-white version of life a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors are gathering themselves in anticipation of spring. At just the right moment the grays and browns will fall to the ground as a virtual explosion of life paints the trees, grass and flowers in Walt Disney-esque technicolor. You just have to love springtime.

So it is with the Christian who keeps his or her faith strong in God. At times we walk through seasons of sorrow, grief or trouble that threaten to push us to the edge of our ability to cope but underneath are the everlasting arms of God and His unlimited, life changing power. The Psalmist mentions a tree firmly planted by a stream, with constant access to the life giving flow. That is a perfect picture of a believer who is drawing daily strength from the deep, refreshing river of God's Spirit. Jesus said that the Christ-follower would have rivers of living water flowing from deep within.

If you are experiencing a bit of winter in life right now I encourage you to reconnect to the power source of God's Spirit. He is always available through prayer, worship and Bible study. The sustaining, renewing power of God is what keeps you stable when the cold blast of January impacts your life. God's promise is that when we draw near to God He will draw near to us as well. And when you do, springtime is just around the corner.

Have a blessed day,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-23T12:21:00.000-08:00

Day 15

Gen 50:20 As for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive, as they are this day. AMP

There are many interesting turns in the life of Joseph the son of Jacob. However the one that always amazes me is his realization that God is so willing to turn the evil intentions of man and Satan into good for His people.

Joseph had every reason to be bitter, unforgiving and angry at his brothers for their vicious treatment of him. Sent by Jacob to check on his brothers he walked into an environment of hate, jealousy and envy. His brothers knew Jacob favored Joseph and decided to rid themselves of him. They sold him into slavery to some passing Arab traders believing they would never see him again.

Fast forward twenty years. Through a surprising series of events and a healthy dose of Gods sovereignty, Joseph becomes the man in charge of all the food in Egypt and second in command under Pharaoh himself. Who should come to buy food for their starving family other than his own brothers. What an opportunity to get revenge! Joseph had lost his father, his family, his identity and his youth because of his envious, blood-thirsty brothers and by all rights could have had them killed for their actions. But Joseph took enough time to think about all that had happened and realized that God had turned everything in his favor. Having lost everything, he had later gained it all back and then some. He was reunited with his father, his younger brother Benjamin and promoted to an elite position of leadership and had saved his family and all Egypt from starvation in a famine - and all because he had stayed true to God and trusted that God was ultimately in control.

Revenge is so easy sometimes. But it never honors God. If bad things have happened in your life don't try to pay back evil with evil. Know that God watches the lives of those who stay true to Him and He has a way of working things out for their good in the long run. Let today be a day of forgiving those who did you wrong and remember the words of Paul:

Rom 8:27-28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. NAS

Blessings,
Pastor Andy

2008-01-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

Day 14

Rom 11:29 For God's gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.]AMP

I love the Amplified Bible's beautiful take on Paul's statement about the call of God. It gives hope to those who have a calling in their life but have somehow lost their way.

It has been my experience that the calling of God on one's life is as mysterious as anything on earth can be. What is this soul-deep urgency to go to some distant land to tell others about Jesus? Or to work with hungry children in China or feed the poor in Malaysia, or teach thirteen year olds in Lufkin? It is hard to describe but if you have ever had the Holy Spirit whisper a secret desire of God into your spirit you know what I mean. It is that gentle yet dynamic nudge that only the Spirit of God can give and it will mark you for life. It was well understood by Paul who taught us that once God determines to direct you into an arena of ministry He never changes His mind. After all, He knows best how to position and re-position His children.

But what if you lose your way and feel as though your opportunity has passed by? What if sin or sickness or a bad choice or circumstances you couldn't avoid veered you away from God's best plan for you? Paul says that God is well able to provide the grace needed to revive your dream. Because He is God He can re-arrange your circumstances to bring about the fulfillment of your calling. All it takes is obedience, time, persistence and faith to make it happen.

Don't give up on your dreams. Believe God today to revive what He placed in your heart in the past. His mercies are new every morning - including THIS morning!

God Bless You,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-19T20:36:00.000-08:00

Day 13

Mal 3:2-3 "But who can endure the day of His coming?And who can stand when He appears?For He is like a refiner's fire and like launderers' soap. 3 He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver; NKJV

Today we seem to have lost our taste for the principle of holiness. We focus a lot of energy on getting people saved - which is a wonderful thing - but not much on living a life of purity and righteousness. Unfortunately God has not changed His view of sin and holiness; His standards have not changed at all. He desires that we allow His Holy Spirit to challenge every weakness in own personal lives and urge us to live a cleaner and purer lifestyle than we ever have.

Holiness is not politically correct today. We are all urged by the culture to accept with great tolerance things our parents would have blushed to see. I think a return to personal holiness is a wonderful goal for every Christian. The fiery Evangelist and Pastor Steve Hill says you can tell if something is sin by simply asking, "Would Jesus do this?" Not a bad standard to live by.

Take a personal inventory as 2008 begins. If you find questionable behaviours in your life allow the loving Lord Jesus to refine you a bit with His fire. His hands are loving hands, well worth placing your life in. You'll be so glad you did.

Have a super day,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-18T20:47:00.000-08:00

Day 12

Matt 7:7-9 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. NKJV

Christians have a wonderful promise in God's Word. Those who diligently seek an answer from God will receive one. Jesus teaches us that those who ask, seek and knock will discover that God loves to answer our prayers.

There is a principle of humility involved in asking. By asking you are admitting you need God's help. God loves to find people who realize they can't do everything by themselves. In fact He loves to find people who have come to the end of trying on their own and are willing to seek His face for a miracle.

What do you need God's help with this year? Ask, Seek and Knock. You'll be putting yourself in the direct path of something miraculous if you do. It may not happen exactly as you think but I am sure of one thing - God will always come through!

Have a great day,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-16T21:41:00.000-08:00

Day 11

Elmer Towns writes that one of the purposes for fasting is to satisfy your hunger. That seems crazy but I agree. If you want to get your hunger for God satisfied you seek Him more diligently. I have seen over the years that when I move in the direction of God He seems to meet me more than halfway.

Most people get to a place of spiritual dryness sooner or later. It can be caused by many things. Busyness, spiritual boredom, excessive stress or a hundred other things can be the root of emptiness and hunger for more of God. But be assured that if you seek Him you will find Him. In fact I think God truly loves to be sought out by us.

Jer 29:12-14 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.14 I will be found by you, says the LORD, NKJV

During this fast I encourage you to see how close to God you can get. God never disappoints when someone goes hard after Him.

Ps 34:10 The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing. NKJV

God Bless You in your quest for more of Jesus,
Pastor Andy

2008-01-15T19:50:00.000-08:00

Day 10

First of all I'm sorry for missing my Tuesday blog entry - too many items on my to-do list. But here goes for today.

We just completed our annual Sacred Assembly with 5 wonderful services. God's presence was so powerful and many were refreshed and challenged to make 2008 a great year. Every time we have meetings like these I'm reminded how important the presence of God is. I heard some statistics from George Barna that a high percentage of church-goers in the USA say they have never or rarely ever felt the manifest presence of God. That is very troubling to me because I have learned to depend on His Presence for strength, encouragement and refreshing.

As people of the Spirit we desire to spend time in His Presence every day. Through prayer, worship and time in the Word of God, we can feel God's strength and power pouring into our lives. It is this strength that keep us going when times get tough and the days get long. When I have failed to spend time alone with God I feel out of sorts and off-balance. But just a few minutes in His Presence changes my attitude, refreshes my soul and encourages my spirit. Let me encourage you to keep you personal time with God consistent and fresh, especially during this time of fasting. It is so easy to get tired and weak when you are fasting but a regular prayer and worship time truly strengthens you.

Here is a great scripture to encourage you today:

Ps 16:11 You will show me the path of life;In Your presence is fullness of joy;At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. NKJV

Blessings,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-14T08:49:00.000-08:00

Day 8

As we reach the end of the first week of our fast I pray that God is speaking to you. Today is the eight day of our fast and the number eight is significant. It is the number of new beginnings. Specifically the eighth day is the first day of a new week. It symbolizes new hope, a fresh start and a clean slate.

This is the time of year for all of us to put past mistakes or shortcomings behind us and get going again in a good direction. The great thing about serving God is that He is always willing to help us make a new start. The mistakes we make become a stepping stone to the future when we see them as experience, rather than failures. If you are trying to move forward you will inevitably make a goof up or two along the way. It's part of life. The key is to see our negative experiences as paving stones to the success we will have tomorrow.

One time when I was working as a Foreman, my crew had a big disagreement that involved lots of anger and accusation. I had about enough of it so I got everybody in a room and confronted them all about it. The problem was they were all still so mad at each other it just poured salt in their wounds and made things worse. My hasty action was a big mistake! It took me a year to get it all sorted out. The lesson I learned was when people get angry and upset, let some time - at least a day or so pass by before you try to resolve things. Time alone doesn't heal anything but it does let emotions subside enough so that people can discuss the problem.

This is your chance to get a fresh start on things. Allow God to help you start fresh in that area of your life that needs help. He grace is amazing in the area of new beginnings.

Lam 3:22-24 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24 I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." NIV

2008-01-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Day 7

One of the great things about going on a fast is that it breaks up your regular routine. It changes some of those habits that we allow to manage our lives. Eating habits, relationship habits and scheduling habits, to name three. I think it makes for a good chance for God to re-arrange us a bit for the new year.

Most of us need some change in at least one area of our lives so change is good for us. We may need to start reading the Bible again or renew our discipline of prayer, Or perhaps attending church each week is our problem. Others have habits of gossipping or complaining or living with unnatural fear that need to be changed.

A good exercise for the remaining two weeks of our fast is to examine your life and look for areas that need adjustment or downright rebuilding right now. There's no time like the present.

Paul said "Be not conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your minds". Not a bad idea.

Have a super day today!

Pastor Andy

2008-01-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

Day 6

Eccl 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: NIV

When God created the universe and placed Planet Earth in orbit He ordained a system of seasons. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter arrive in perfect order, each season painting its particular canvas of color on the world. I've noticed that winter stays just long enough for me to get tired of it and Fall cant quit arrive soon enough. I guess God knew we needed the change of seasons to balance everything out and give us something to look forward to.

Just as our world is blessed with the shifting of seasons, the spiritual world has seasons of its own. This time of year many churches come together to fast and pray for the new year. It's just the best way to start the year off. You have the chance to start fresh, reconnect with God and renew your commitment to prayer, Bible study and worship. My wife's family attends a great church in Colorado that is also in the midst of fasting right now. The reason so many churches start the year this way is that every new year brings with it challenges, problems, issues and battles. Going after God in January resets the priority in your life of serving Jesus with all your heart. As we draw near to Him we renew our sensitivity to His Spirit Who desires to guide around the potholes and dips that we will face this year. In addition He empowers us to face each challenge in the power of the Holy Spirit.

It gives me great confidence to know that God is going to guide me, protect me and empower this year. It also builds my faith to know that many thousands of Christians are seeking God through prayer and fasting just as we are.

Be encouraged that many across the country are joining us to seek the Lord right now. Also take courage that we will see the good results of our efforts as the seasons of 2008 roll by.

Blessings for a great Saturday!

Pastor Andy

2008-01-10T17:52:00.000-08:00

Day 5

"Go and sin no more." These words must have been shocking to the woman who had been caught in adultery. She had fully expected death by stoning according the Law of Moses. The Pharisees and others had wanted to bring swift judgement on the woman in their anger over her obvious sin. But Jesus had a different motive in his words - mercy for the repentant heart.

The people had dragged her before Jesus to see if He would follow the Law and agree with their desire for a speedy end to the whole, distasteful incident. But Jesus rose from where He had been writing in the sand to add a tough requirement to those who wanted to hurl stones. "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." After a long, pregnant silence the accusers began slinking into the city shadows, convicted of their own sins.

"Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?"
"No one, Lord."
"Neither do I condemn you."

Jesus taught two life-altering lessons that day. First, when you become perfect you can judge everyone else. Until then leave the judging to God. Second, when you make a mistake repent, get up, dust yourself off and go forward having learned your lesson well.

Have you made a mistake lately? Most of us have. Mistakes are part of life but Gods grace and forgiveness is always available to the truly repentant heart. Jesus was not condoning her sin but He was interested in saving her soul. If you've messed up go to God and ask for forgiveness and mercy. Jesus always forgives the repentant heart.

1 John 1:9-10 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. NKJV

God Bless You,
Have a wonderful day,
Pastor Andy

2008-01-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

Day 4

Nothing is more of a hindrance to moving forward in life than fear. Fear prevents us from stepping out in faith, following the call of God or attempting something new we have never tried before.

I remember being an assistant teacher in a training class years ago. The teacher, Mark, was a very accomplished instructor and I respected him greatly. We were beginning a 3 day class and I fully expected that my role would be to give him a brief break every now and then, make coffee, bring in lunch and little more. About 10 am the first morning He asked me to teach for a little while so he could return a phone call. He disappeared for the rest of the day! I was so terrified to stand in front of those people and teach for several hours! I kept looking at the door and hoping Mark would come through it. I finally realized he was not coming back so I pushed back my fear and did my best.

I did not realize it at the time but that was the best thing the teacher could have done for me. It forced me to take a deep breath, focus my mind on the task at hand and go forward. I am so thankful that happened because now teaching is one of my great joys and my calling. But, I assure you - if I had let my fears take charge, I would have walked out of that room that morning and run for the hills!

Don't let fear rule your heart and mind today. Step forward in faith into every task or challenge in front of you and remember this scripture. It has encouraged me many times over the years:

Isa 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you;do not be dismayed, for I am your God.I will strengthen you and help you;I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. NIV

Have a blessed day!
God loves you,

Pastor Andy

2008-01-08T18:33:00.000-08:00

Day 3

Esther was in a rough situation. Her people the Jews were soon to be attacked and destroyed because of the evil influence of a wicked man named Haman. Haman had influenced the King to write out an edict that condemned the Jews as enemies of the nation. It would be legal for the people to attack and destroy the Jews without any restriction. The only person in a position to help the Jews was Queen Esther. God had placed Esther in just the right place at just the right time to influence the King to save the Jews.

Esther's relative Mordecai, who was a just and righteous Jew, spoke some words to Esther that changed the legacy of an entire nation.

Est 4:13-14 And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews.14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" NKJV

Esther saw her opportunity to stand in the gap for her Jewish countrymen and she called a fast for three days for all her friends and family. At the end of the fast she went before the King and was able, by God's supernatural favor, to convince the King to rescue the Jews. As an added benefit the wicked Naman was hanged for his part in the evil plot.

As we fast during January for our church and our families I believe God is breaking strongholds and preparing victories for us. I believe God has placed you where you are for such a time as this. I have learned this - never underestimate what God can do in our situation when we pray, fast and seek His divine help. There is nothing He can't do, no situation He can't change and no stronghold He can't bring down! God is good all the time.

As you go about your day today remember that your prayer and fasting is having a profound effect. James said, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. "(James 5:16 KJV)

Have a great Wednesday and God Bless You!

Pastor Andy

2008-01-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Day 2

With that first day of fasting behind us we look forward to Day 2. Be encouraged about one thing - The Lord will honor any sincere committed effort in the area of fasting. You may have chosen a partial fast of some kind (certain foods or specific meals, etc.) or a regular fast in which you fast all solid food and drink only fluids - but no matter what method you have chosen God is more interested in your heart condition than anything else. Just stay with it and He will bless you for your effort.

I am so thrilled that we serve a God that is into renewal and restoration. We all can look back and see areas of our lives that were not perfect in 2007. But God says forget what went before and look forward to the future. By starting this year off right you can make 2008 your best year ever. Don't relive past mistakes - give them to Jesus and make a fresh start today.

A final thought for today:

Ps 118:6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. NKJV

God is on your side. There is no need to be afraid or anxious about anything - just trust Him with everything you will face today. He has broad shoulders and strong arms - He is on your side and He'll walk side by side with you today!

God Bless You!

Pastor Andy

2008-01-06T19:44:00.000-08:00

Day 1 - website update

For Jentzen Franklin's excellent fasting resources go to www.freechapel.org.

Pastor Andy

2008-01-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

DAY 1

Today we begin a corporate 21 day fast together. At LFA we believe strongly in Biblical fasting as a way to draw near to God in preparation for the new year. 2008 can be a fabulous year for Lufkin First Assembly and for you! Starting off by renewing our desire for God and His will is incredibly important and will set the tone for the year.

Next Sunday we begin a series of five important services aimed at drawing near to God in passionate worship, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to us and looking into Gods Word for instruction and direction. Sacred Assembly starts next Sunday at 8:30 and 11:00 am and continues Sunday night at 6 pm and Monday and Tuesday nights at 7:00 pm.

For those who are joining in with this very important time of fasting I will be adding a new entry to this blog every day as ongoing encouragement and help. I also highly recommend you go to http://www.jentzenfranklin.org/ for excellent further help with your fast. When we are fasting it helps so much to know others are joining together to fast during this time. Often some brief encouragement each day is very helpful in staying focused on fasting and hearing from God. Let me encourage you to have faith that the Lord sees your faithfulness and desire for more of Him and He will come through for you in whatever situation you are facing! Remember these promises from Isaiah 58 about the results of proper fasting...

Isa 58:8-9 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,and your healing will quickly appear;then your righteousness will go before you,and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.NIV

God Bless You for participating in this fast.

Check back again tomorrow for my next entry,

Pastor Andy