Surrender vs. Control

Friday, September 30, 2011
Surrender vs. Control. My theory is that deep down inside, every single one of us is slightly in love with control. Sure, we know people that are obsessed with being in control, and we can easily recognize that type of person. We may say we aren’t like that, and maybe we aren’t to that extreme. However, way down deep inside of who we really are, there are control issues. I really don't think I’m just speaking of myself.
We have a problem when we come to the crossroads of control and surrender, though. At various times in my journey with Christ, God has challenged different aspects of my relationship with and theology about Him. Various things that I’ve always believed are sometimes called into question as I grow in knowledge of Who He is, it seems. He’s challenged everything from the way I view people to the way I view worship. And now He’s challenging me on the way I view this idea of surrender.
I’m showing a video to our students Wednesday night called “Wrong Worship.” It’s on YouTube, and I’d encourage you to look it up. The “worship team” on this video sing worship songs and hymns that have been changed to reflect the truth of the hearts doing the singing every Sunday. One of those songs is “I Surrender All.” When changed to reflect reality, the singer actually sings, “I surrender some.” Is there any truth in that?
I think if someone uses the phrase “partial surrender” they are revealing the fact that they don’t understand the concept of surrender at all, really. That’s almost like saying they are “sort of married” or “kind of have cancer.” Some things are either in or out, you do or you don’t – there’s no middle ground. Surrender is such a principle.
When we come to Christ to surrender ourselves to Him as Lord of our lives, it must be complete. When it comes down to it, we often give God what we want to give Him, which in turn reveals what we truly believe He deserves. So the entire issue of complete or partial surrender hangs on one, single question: How much of you does God deserve?
If we even hesitate to ponder the answer we already need to reevaluate our view of and belief in God. He created all that is! He sent His One and only Son to redeem us from the sin that we chose to walk in! He is infinitely more than our minds can ever fathom! Think of any good, righteous, and holy adjective and He confounds your understanding of it entirely! He just IS!
All of creation sways in instant obedience to Him. The winds and waves obey His voice. The weather obeys His voice. The trees, plants, even animals obey His voice. We, humans, are the only element of creation that has the audacity to look God right in the face and say, “No.”
We will let Him have our Sundays, but not our Friday nights. We will let Him have our moments of need, but not our moments of pleasure. We will let Him have our occasional praise, but not our entire vocabulary. We will let Him have our relationships with church folks, but not our relationships with those who don’t like us. Get the idea?
Partial surrender is no surrender at all. We cannot come to God with conditions attached. It’s all or nothing; He deserves – even demands – nothing less.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Who I'm Not - Who I Am.

Thursday, September 29, 2011
Who I’m Not – Who I Am. I’m not trash – I’m treasured. I find it amazing and, dare I say it, mind-blowing to think that the One Who knows me best loves me the most. He, who knows my every failure, flaw, and short-coming, treasures me. He welcomed me into His family when I first fell on my face before Him and asked for the forgiveness of my sin. And still, daily, He welcomes me into His presence anytime I ask for His ear. There may be those who think I’m disposable, but not my God.
I’m not burdensome – I’m blessed. It is so incredible to me to know that I am not a burden to the God who hears the cries of every child of His across this globe. I can’t talk to Him too much. I can’t overwhelm Him with my conversation. I can’t burn Him out on Blake Martin. His love is so big that no matter how trivial my problems are or how simple my thinking may be, He wants to hear it all. I’m not a burden to Him – I’m blessed in knowing Him.
I’m not bottom shelf – I’m beautifully redeemed. God doesn’t push me aside for other priorities. No matter what else He has before Him, He always has time for me. He doesn’t side-step me for other things, nor does He put me on hold for other opportunities. He has assured me that I’m His, and He’ll always hold me close. He has redeemed me from the curse that my sin carried, and He’s told me in His Word that I’m the apple of His eye.
I’m not baggage – I’m brilliantly protected. All the tough legs of the journey of life thus far haven’t turned me into a scarred pile of the past. He has led me all the way, and I’ve never walked alone! All the things I’ve been through, good or bad, have been seen and known by Him. All the decisions I’ve made, righteous or sinful, have been redeemed by Him. He has preserved me for His plan that is unfolding before my eyes daily.
I’m not self-reliant – I’m sanctified. I’m not any of the above because of my own ability or strength. Anything that I am today, or will ever be tomorrow, is the result of my Savior’s love for me and His ability to mold me into what He wants, in spite of who I am. He has set me apart and sanctified me for a purpose larger than my own. He has anointed me to share Him with a lost and dying world. And He has filled me with His Spirit so I can accomplish that purpose. Who I’m not and who I am is truly a testimony of Who He is, and not about me at all.
If you know Christ, the above can be read aloud by you as a testimony of your own life and journey. If you don’t know Christ, the above could be your story. The only thing that is lacking, friend, is your decision – a decision to follow Christ and ask for His forgiveness for your sin. Oh, what a glorious fate awaits you on the other side of that choice!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Prayer Is...

Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Prayer Is… Prayer is: a promised powerhouse. Scripture says that when God’s people pray, heaven listens. We all understand the power that top advisors have at the White House for the simple reason that they “have the ear of the President.” When they speak, he listens. The President of the United States is arguably the most powerful man on this planet. How much more joy should come from knowing that we, if we belong to God, have the ear of the God of the Universe? Prayer can be the source of a powerhouse directly from God the Father!
Prayer is: a refuge. When we are struggling, we can pray. When we feel all alone, we can pray. When we feel like nobody ever listens to us, we can pray. When we feel distant from everyone and everything, we can pray. When we are so angry that it seems like venting is the only thing that will prevent us from exploding, we can pray. When we don’t even know what to say or how to say it, we can pray. Get the idea? Prayer is a refuge in the darkest of nights or the brightest of days.
Prayer is: an answer to the longing for revival. When we find ourselves dry and empty, prayer can bring us to the place of restoration. One of the crucial elements of revival given to us in the Word is found in the simple words, “If My people, called by My name…pray…” That’s not all of that verse (humility, seeking God’s face and repentance are also mentioned), but it’s certainly a crucial leg of the table. For years I have longed for a city-wide revival in the hearts of students in Cabot, Arkansas where I serve. That revival is beginning before our very eyes, and the root of it is prayer.
Prayer is: unlimited access. Once we are in Christ and growing in Him, the Word tells us that we can come “boldly before the Throne.” That’s a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week promise, friend! No matter where you are, you can cry out to God. I prayed to receive Christ as my own Lord and Savior in the shower at my parents’ house at the age of 14 – get my point? God can hear His child crying out to Him from any location. This morning, He’ll be listening to millions of students crying out to Him from their school’s flagpole all around the world.
Prayer is: neglected? Unused? A non-priority? Distant? Do any of these words describe your “prayer life?” It’s easy to find ourselves in a position of not praying, especially when things are going ok. Let me challenge you, though, to make prayer a priority in your life. Maybe it will take you literally setting an appointment for yourself at a set time each day to pray. Maybe it will take you writing “Pray” on a post it note and placing it in a prominent place. Maybe it will mean turning the radio off when you’re driving so you can use that time to talk to Him. Or maybe it will even need to happen in the shower while you have time there. Regardless, find a time, beginning today, to call out to Him. If you know Christ, you have unlimited access to the Creator of all that is – why would you ever even consider wasting that?
Please pray for students all across the world this morning as they gather at their school’s flagpole to pray for their schools, peers, nations, and world at See You At The Pole. Also please join me in praying for Cabot’s See You AFTER The Pole event tonight. It will be at Cabot Junior High North with free food at 5:15pm and doors opening for the rally at 5:45pm. We’re praying for lots of students to come to know Him tonight! Pray!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Tragedy's Cure.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tragedy’s Cure. Imagine with me for a moment that many years ago in a laboratory a cure was discovered. After all the tests and experiments, the scientists finally found a way to cure the disease that has taken so many lives. The answer that so many have donated to find, and the answer to the prayers of millions was seen before the eyes of these researchers. Yet the cure they discovered for cancer was kept a secret, and was only known by them. Would that enrage you – would it make you sick to your stomach?
Of course it would. I can tell you that I would be the first pressing for an investigation, and for penalties to the fullest extent of the law for those who knew how to prevent so many deaths and yet did nothing! I have known too many people whose lives have ended way too soon because of cancer. To know that someone had the remedy – the cure – and kept it to themselves? Cancer is a tragedy – keeping the cure to cancer to yourself is an outright injustice.
To the best of my knowledge there has been no such cure discovered and kept from us. Sure, there are conspiracy theories that say so, but I have a hard time giving them much credibility. There are still scientists pouring over research, conducting experiments, and working tirelessly to try to find that cure. But there is a reality that is just as tragic today.
Though all reading this may not have had personal ties to someone who fought cancer, all of us have certainly known someone who has died because of one thing or another. As tragic and widespread as cancer is, there’s another disease that touches the lives and well-being of every human being to ever live – sin.
The worst part about sin is that not only does it lead to death, its worst consequences come after death. We all have an “appointment” with death and “after this the judgment.” The Word is clear about this truth: sin brings death, and afterward we will stand before God. Because the word “all” is used in relation to those who have sinned, that involves the entire human race. This disease has infected everyone, everywhere, and only grows with time.
The good news is that there is a cure! Every single one of us that know Christ have that cure applied on our behalf already, and we know how to share it with others. People can be prepared to stand before God, having their sin forgiven and its penalty wiped away. The cure has been found, and is already packaged for mass distribution!
The only problem is that the very ones who possess its Truth have hidden it away from those who desperately need it. People are dying every single day without the cure. Scripture says that hell is “enlarging itself” to make room for all the new residents. The world is hopeless and dark, and we’ve got the answer.
People dying is tragic. Having the solution and cure and keeping it to ourselves is an outright injustice.
Share Him today, even if it’s as simple (as my pastor reminds us often) as asking, “Do you know who Jesus is?” Not everyone will be receptive, but if just one person is – you’ve been the vessel God used to save a life, forever.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Deep Sleeper?

Monday, September 26, 2011
Deep Sleeper? I read of a college student once that was a very deep sleeper. The story was told by his parents that he was at home on one occasion when bad weather came up in their area. An unexpected tornado dropped near their home, and before they could get to cover it hit where they were. Their house sustained some pretty serious damage, according to the story. As the parents frantically made their way upstairs to the room where their college aged son was, they didn’t know what his condition would be. Upon breaking through his door they were amazed to find him sound asleep, un-disturbed by the commotion of the storm.
I used to sleep very deeply and be able to sleep through loud noises and other disturbances, but that’s not the case anymore. I have dreams with events so big and noises so loud that even they wake me up. Spiritually speaking, are you a deep sleeper?
It doesn’t take a Bible scholar to notice that we are living in very consequential times for our world. In a couple of weeks I will be 28, and just in my short life thus far I cannot remember a time when things were in such turmoil and uncertain chaos.
We talk about the bad condition of the economy, but that’s not limited to our country. We talk about the political unrest and lack of unity, and that seems to also be an international issue. We talk about the decline of morality and the inability of people to see right from wrong, and this too is a world-wide epidemic. Selfishness is the new norm around the globe as the poorest of this world starve and the rest of us worry about making the mortgage payment on our castles. Fewer and fewer are hearing God’s call to total commitment, or so it seems. It’s almost as if men have become “lovers of self rather than lovers of God.”
There’s a storm raging around us, friend. It’s a fierce, hurricane force storm. The world is being torn to shreds as time quickly counts down to the next big event on civilization’s timeline. If we believe the Word when it speaks the Truth of John 3:16, we’ve got to believe it when it speaks of the return of Christ as well. “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the dead in Christ will rise first, then all us who are alive and remain will be caught up together to meet them in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
The reality of this Truth should wake us up. The events around us daily should rattle us to the point of breaking our sleep cycle. The fulfillment of so much of Scripture before our very eyes should be like a tremendous alarm in the ears of sleeping believers everywhere that raise them up from the dreams that have kept their eyes closed for generations. The sad truth is, however, many snore on, as if everything will continue as it always has. The faith that we claim to hold to is merely a soft pillow to help us sleep at night, instead of a beckon call to rise up and rescue a lost world from the future we’ve been foretold of.
Are you a deep sleeper? What will it take to wake you from that spiritual slumber? Last night I saw over 300 people, mostly students, assembled in the cafeteria of Cabot Junior High North, with hands lifted and praised God together. I saw God lighting a fire within most of them to share Christ in their schools this week. I saw a generation beginning to crack open their eyes from a nap that is about to end. I saw hundreds of them waking up – and I felt hell begin to shudder beneath my feet.
What will it take for the rest of us to join the battle?



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

5 Bars.

Friday, September 23, 2011
5 Bars. No doubt you’ve all seen the commercials for a well known cell service company that uses the 5 service bars in the background throughout the commercial. I’m even more certain that you’ve experienced what it feels like to check for those bars in real life. You want to make a call, but you only have 1 bar of service. That 1 bar of service might get the call out, but you aren’t sure how dependable it will be for the duration of the call. The ideal situation is 5 bars.
This morning, I feel like God is asking me, “Can you hear Me now?” In my walk with Him I’ve found that my “service” can be better at times than it is at others. (That doesn’t mean my communication with God is based on cell towers, by the way.) Simply put, there are times when I am closer to God, walking in better fellowship with Him, than at other times. I can hear Him better sometimes than I can at others.
Let’s get something straight from the get go: God never moves. If I find myself living in distance from Him, it’s not His fault. He’s done everything necessary from His side to accomplish closeness with me – the cross is proof of that. But we drift, and naturally that drifting is in a direction away from Him. Though I don’t believe we’ll ever drift out of a relationship with Him once we’re His, we can drift to a place of weak fellowship.
Relationships take work and effort; we all understand that I’m sure. Why would we think our relationship with God is any different? We have to exert some effort on our own part to maintain a closeness and intimate “in-tune-ness” with Him! If we don’t ever pray (talking to Him) and don’t ever read His Word (allowing Him to talk back to us), our relationship with God has no communication. Anyone on earth will tell you that a relationship with no communication is weak, and certainly isn’t close and growing!
My point this morning is very simple: in my own walk with God, I want to have 5 bars. I want my relationship with the God Who loved me enough to send His one and only Son to die for me to be intimately close. I want to be so close to Him that I can almost hear His heartbeat. And He gives us all the resources needed for that to happen – we just have to make the effort to apply them.
You’ll never have 5 bars with your cell phone unless you have strong towers and a decent phone. We’ll never have 5 bars with Him unless we communicate with Him and allow Him to communicate back to us. That’s not being judgmental – it’s accepting the obvious.
Do you long for that closeness with Him? Let it begin today – right now!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Towering Circumstances.

Thursday, September 22, 2011
Towering Circumstances. Are you ever intimidated by the circumstances of life? Do things ever happen that rattle you to the core? What about doubts – do you ever struggle with uncertainty? Are there ever times when you wonder if you have faith enough to make it through your current ordeal? Do the things in front of you look as though they may be bigger than the faith under you can bear? You’re not alone…
Noah was told to build a ship, though it had never rained. He was informed that a flood was coming that would wipe out all humanity, and the ark was the only hope of survival. God gave him specific instructions, not only on the dimensions of the ark he was to build, but also on what to take aboard. For over 100 years, Noah and his family worked tirelessly, day in and day out, building something that those around them didn’t understand. The first rain drop changed their perspective.
Moses was called by God to lead millions of people out of Egyptian bondage, yet he lacked the self-confidence to even speak in public. Most in our day look at eloquence and speaking ability when making their choice for a leader, whether they admit it or not. The difference here is simple: God’s chosen people didn’t choose their leader, He did. God knew exactly who it was that He wanted for this job, and the burning bush was all Moses needed to convince him. Leading the people wasn’t easy, and they certainly weren’t the most pleasant of followers. Though their attention span seemed short when it came to trust, moments like the parting of the Red Sea always seemed to remind them of Who it was that was leading their leader.
David heard all the fuss coming from the big man on the enemy’s front line, and it didn’t take long for him to have enough. How dare this mere man taunt the God that he worshiped like that! If no one else was going to stand against him, then David would have to be the one. The armor was too big, so he passed on it. The sword wouldn’t be necessary either, his sling shot would do. Just imagine the sight as David, a young boy, steps up with smooth stones and sling shot in hand. Across the valley stands a man – a large man – a really large man! Goliath was a giant, but not in David’s eyes. The towering circumstances before David were dwarfed in the shadow of His limitless, omnipotent God! The stone flew and the giant fell.
Are you in a season of blind obedience that seemingly no one around you understands? Take heart – your present time of obeying is preparing you for something down the road!
Do you feel like you are lacking for the thing that God has called you to do? He knows who you are, and the things that you think you lack are just the things God wants to use to show Himself mighty!
Are you staring at a towering giant of circumstances in your life? Others may have cowered in fear, but you can stand knowing Jehovah God, the Creator of all that exists, is here to fight for you!
“Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever.” God doesn’t change. From Old Testament to present day – if He’s done it before He can do it again. The difference isn’t Him – it’s us. Give Him your towering circumstances today and get ready to see Him move in ways only He can claim credit for!

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, as well as her family during her continued recovery.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. Tanner will be moved to a longer-term rehab unit to help him continue to recover on Friday afternoon. God is faithful!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Minute to Win It.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Minute to Win It. I’m sure most of you have seen the game show called “Minute to Win It.” Though I’ve never actually watched a full episode, I’ve used a lot of their challenges on Wednesday nights with our student ministry. It’s a neat concept, really. The bottom line is simple: you’ve got a challenge to do, but your time is limited to an excruciatingly short minute. Hence, you only have a minute to win it.
God is challenging me this morning. I had a pretty awesome meeting last night with some great youth pastors from here in our town at our Cabot Youth Ministries Network meeting. We’re working on the final details of our See You After The Pole event which will happen a week from tonight. Last night was my first meeting as a part of the network. As we talked about the importance of getting the gospel to students, God began to remind me again just how short our time is.
Jesus told His disciples one time that He had to “work the work of Him who sent Him while it is day, because the night is coming when no man can work.” With the change of seasons this time of year, surely we all understand the concept of a shorter day, right? The sun seems to set quicker and the night seems to come upon us sooner. So it is with life, especially in this day and age.
Our commission to share the gospel with every creature was one that Christ gave all believers before He went back to heaven. It’s a serious challenge, and one worthy of our full acceptance. If those of us who call ourselves Christians don’t take it upon ourselves to share the awesome message of God’s love and salvation for sinners with those who need to hear it "while it is day," who else will?
We’ve only got a short amount of time to do our job! Not only is life uncertain, but the world is even more so! If you believe the Bible to be God’s Word, then you’ve got to believe what it says about the return of Jesus. If you believe what it says about the return of Jesus, then you’ve got to believe that it could happen at any moment – literally! “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye” – that’s how fast our “minute to win” them will be over.
The town I live in is full of thousands upon thousands of students and kids that need Christ, not to mention the thousands upon thousands of adults in the same boat. The body of Christ has a tremendous job to do, not just in this town but all over the world. But it will only be accomplished – the mission will only be undertaken – if you and I, as individuals, commit ourselves to its cause.
The choice is yours. We’ve only got a little while. Their eternity is at stake. What’s it gonna be?

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, as well as her family during her continued recover.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. Tanner has been moved to a step down unit, which means he’s improving! Continue to pray for his recovery, as well as that of the other young boy involved that is still in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Origins.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Origins. For generations there has been much debate on the origins of our world, including mankind. The debate, which sometimes can be very intense, has its focal point in the existence of a Creator or the lack thereof. The troubling point for those arguing against His existence is ultimately origins, that is, everything had to begin somewhere. Personally, it’s easier for me to accept that a Creator has always existed rather than some form of matter has. Apart from God Himself, everything has an origin.
Things that are harmful have an origin. Scripture tells us of a being that exists to make war against God’s people and their cause. This being is first seen being cast out of heaven due to his own pride and desire to ascend to God’s throne. We see him again in the Garden of Eden doing his best to sidetrack God’s own creation from fellowship with Him. He succeeded, and the fellowship was broken. But redemption of that fellowship came shortly thereafter, and that had its origins in the heart of God.
Whether you want to admit it or not, mankind didn’t begin in a pool of primordial sludge. We didn’t get our start as something that once had a tail or fins. As a matter of fact, mankind never even walked on all fours. We don’t find our origins in any of that, but rather in the very heart of God.
You see, God knew before He ever made us that we would go on to turn our back on Him. He knew that Adam and Eve would fall to temptation, and He knew that Blake Martin would too. He knew that the sin that would hold them captive would require His only begotten Son to go to the cross to shed His blood to forgive and cleanse that sin from our hearts. He knew all that in advance, but He made us anyway. We originated in His heart.
The heart is still recognized as the seat of our emotions today. We talk about “loving someone with all our heart,” and we don’t literally mean the muscle that pumps our blood. We say we’re “giving our heart” to that special someone, and we don’t actually mean we’re allowing a doctor to take our physical heart and place it in their chest. We are referencing love and affection – decisions to commit ourselves to someone with all that we are. God made such a choice at creation, ages before the Cross ever happened.
I’m convinced that all good things – the best things – have their origins in the heart. Marriages, children, friendships, even careers and dreams – they all begin in the heart of God before ever making their way into the heart of man. His will for us is perfect and second to none, and it comes from Him first. That’s why Jesus could pray in the Garden of Gethsemane, even through those sweat drops of blood, “Father, not My will but Thy will be done.” He knew the Father’s will came from His heart, and it, ultimately, was best.
So today, where did your dreams and hopes come from? Where did you get your aspirations of things to come? If they came from anywhere but His heart, maybe you should recheck the origins of your future.
God loves you, and wants for you His best. That’s why it makes so much sense to trust Him with your everything!

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who did end up coming up yesterday afternoon finally. Keep praying for her recovery, and for her family.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck last Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. Tanner has been moved to a step down unit, which means he’s improving! Continue to pray for his recovery, as well as that of the other young boy involved that is still in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Conquered...?

Monday, September 19, 2011
Conquered…? Why do we let him do it? It seems like we are flying high one minute, and the next we’re beaten down and in a place I like to call the “mully grubs”. We allow ourselves to begin to think we’re defeated – conquered – and for what reason? We begin to think we are victims of the circumstances – that no matter what we do, life will always be an uphill climb and we’ll never realize the dreams our heart has set itself on. Why do we let him do it?
I’m speaking, of course, of the enemy of our souls. I’d rather not mention him by name, as that would grant him a certain level of respect and honor, neither of which he rightfully deserves. He’s a liar, and the father of it, and that’s according to Jesus Himself.
All the while we are told by God who we really are. Scripture says that we are “more than conquerors through Christ.” We don’t live under circumstances! If we’ve had our sins dealt with by Christ, friend we are children of the God of the universe! The One we belong to is the Creator of everything that exists – including our enemy! So why do we let him convince us otherwise?
I can only speak for myself when I give an answer for that question, so humor me and let me offer my 2 cents if you will.
I get tired and worn down. Obstacles fall into my path, and dreams that have begun to be realized become slightly dimmed by happenings in life. It’s in those moments that the enemy sneaks in and begins to place doubts in my own mind. He tells me that I’m not ever going to see those things happen. He tells me I’m only wishfully thinking. He tells me I’m not capable, and that everyone else realizes it so it’s about time I do. He tells me to get used to the ways things are because they’ll always be that way. Then he slithers back into the weeds of life just as smooth as he slithered out.
I’ll be honest – for a moment or two he wins. I have found that I buy it for a little while. But then comes the moment of truth – the moment when God gets my attention yet again. He reminds me Who I belong to. He reminds me that the enemy has no authority over me anymore. He reminds me that I can stand up, tall and strong in Him, with confidence in knowing I’m His, and I’ll never walk alone because of that truth.
I’m not conquered by the enemy – I belong to Christ. Anytime the liar begins to tell me to lie down and give up I remind him of a simple fact: I’ve read the end of the Book, and I’m on the side that wins! Then I get up, dust myself off, and charge headlong into the life before me. I’m not going to lay down the fight that easily…I’m in it to win it!
So today, don't let the enemy place himself over you as a conqueror. Stand up in Him, realizing that the enemy has a future that's dark, but ours is bright! If you've trusted Christ with your sin problem, trust Him with your battles too. He's able and willing to fight for you, if you'll only step out of the way.

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers.
*Continue to pray for Mary Landers.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck last week.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Run.

Friday, September 16, 2011
Run. Just imagine for a moment that you’re watching your favorite football team on tv, whether college or professional. The team you happen to be rooting for has possession of the ball. The quarterback gets the snap, backs up and tosses the ball to a man who is wide open. That player, after receiving the ball, starts running. He runs harder and faster than any football player you’ve ever seen! Like a lightning bolt, he sails down the field and across the goal line like it’s nothing. There’s only one problem: he ran the wrong way.
How many comments do you think would be made about his speed, or how well he held onto the ball once he received it? My guess would be that a fair 99% of the commentary of his run would have to do with the direction. That’s probably the most important element of the idea of running – direction. You can be a skilled, quick, agile and enduring runner, yet if you’re going the wrong way none of it matters.
Paul told us in some of his writing in the New Testament of the Bible that running matters, as does the direction. He said, “Run with endurance the race set before you, looking to Jesus the Author and Perfector of our faith, Who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Notice a few things in that verse that have to do with direction…
He said to “run with endurance the race set BEFORE you…” Notice we aren’t told to re-run the race BEHIND, but simply the one left to be run. That tells me that we can’t run effectively if we’re facing backwards. We all have truckloads of failure in our past that we could dwell on and camp out in. That’s not the correct direction to run, though. Christ promises that our sins will be forgiven if we bring them to Him, so let’s take Him at His word! Take your past to Him, confess it, and leave it there. Then get up and begin to run forward!
Keep your eyes on the prize – Jesus! There’s a finish line to this race, and Jesus is sitting there waiting on us to finish! Can you imagine what it will feel like to see Him, after all the struggling and battling on this earth is done? It tends to help us push through the pain and cramping of a long distance race if we focus on how sweet the finish line will be. So don’t give up, and don’t even consider the option of quitting! The race won’t last forever – and when it ends we’ve got a celebration waiting for us that’s second to none!
Sometimes what hinders us the most about running is the fear of falling. I’ve had my fair share of good spills, and I’ll be honest with you when I say I really don’t care to do that again. But if we allow that fear to prevent us from running toward our future, we’ll never experience the thrill of victory because of the past agony of defeat. Drop your fear, and give it all you’ve got for the future.
Today is another leg of the race called life. The cheering section is going wild in heaven (Hebrews 12:1)! The past is history, so leave it be. Now tighten up your laces, do a little stretching, and prepare for the marathon of a lifetime! On your mark, get set…

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who did end up coming up yesterday afternoon finally. Keep praying for her recovery.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. Tanner has been moved to a step down unit, which means he’s improving! Continue to pray for his recovery, as well as that of the other young boy involved that is still in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Words of Fire.

Thursday, September 15, 2011
Words of Fire. His name is John, and he has no home. It’s the end of November, and he’s currently taken up residence in an alley in a less than virtuous part of town. It’s cold tonight, with a current temp of around 30. If he doesn’t figure something out he’ll freeze to death tonight. His lifesaver is the fire he’s about to build in the old trash barrel across the alley way from him.
Their last name is Harrison, and they’ve lived in this home for 28 years. They’ve raised 3 kids under this roof, and now 2 grandchildren consider it their favorite place to visit. After all these years they finally know what it’s like to have a home that’s actually paid for. All that’s left now is to enjoy retirement, the grandkids, and growing older together. The only problem is that the wildfire that is ravaging their state is headed straight for their beautiful home, and there’s absolutely nothing they can do about it. The destruction they’re about to experience is unimaginable.
Fire is a powerful tool, or a potent agent of destruction. James mentions it in his book toward the end of the New Testament in the Bible. He says that a great “wildfire begins with such a little spark.” It doesn’t take much for a fire to get out of control if the conditions are right.
The conditions in our world are right for a wildfire of words. Everything you say about someone else has the potential to grow into a horrendous monster of destruction. The smallest of words or statements can destroy someone, many times before you even realize what you’ve done. The old “sticks and stones” adage just isn’t true, friend. I can personally attest to the fact that words CAN hurt, many times deeper than sticks and stones ever could.
But our words can also be constructive. We can say things that build each other up. Our words can point people to the Truth of the Gospel, and their need for Christ to save them. Just like the fire in the burn barrel for the homeless man, the things we say can bring hope and life to someone that has neither. Our words can spread like a wildfire of revival in the world for the glory of God!
The deciding factor is simple: choice. We control our words, whether they point people to Christ or away. We decide whether we will build up or tear down with what we say. The power of life or death is contained in the tongue, according to James. It’s up to us which we will choose to spread. Let’s spread some life today!

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who did end up coming up yesterday afternoon finally. Keep praying for her recovery.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. Tanner has been moved to a step down unit, which means he’s improving! Continue to pray for his recovery, as well as that of the other young boy involved that is still in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Speak, Lord...

Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Speak, Lord. If you’ve read my blog much at all you know that I enjoy writing. It’s an outlet for me, and it brings such joy to my heart knowing that someone, somewhere might read something that challenges or encourages them in their walk with Christ. It’s not about me, because the stuff I write comes from Him. I’m just the middle man of sorts. Today is certainly no exception, as I simply want to write a passage of Scripture, straight from the Word, for your reading. God used this text from Isaiah 58:2-14 to challenge me, so I’m asking you to read it asking Him to do the same for you. Take your time – read it slowly – and allow Him to speak.
“For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them. ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’
“Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break the yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter – when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not turn away from your own flesh and blood? 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. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.
“If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
“If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.” The mouth of the Lord has spoken. (Isaiah 58:2-14)
I pray He’s spoken to you today.

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who did end up coming up yesterday afternoon finally. Keep praying for her recovery.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. He and one of his friends are currently in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Things to Forget...

Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Things to Forget… There are some important things we should always remember, as we discussed yesterday in this blog. However, there are also some things that we need to prevent from taking up residence in our minds. Being forgetful is usually viewed as a weakness or a negative, however this morning let’s attempt to be forgetful as it relates to some very important truths.
Our confessed past is history. The Word tells us that, “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) Simply put, when we take our past to God He wipes away the sin contained therein. To be truly forgiven means there is no longer a record of wrong – it’s been erased! So the question remains: If God has forgiven should we not then move on and leave it behind ourselves? The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Don’t allow the devil to throw your past in your face if you’ve taken it to God for forgiveness. It’s history.
The past failures of others are history. To the same degree that God forgives our past and removes its stain, He has called us to extend grace to others. “Forgive others even as God, for Christ’s sake, has forgiven you.” How much have you been forgiven by God? Answer that question and you immediately have your measuring cup for handing out forgiveness to others. Don’t ever let yourself get caught throwing someone’s past into their face if God has already dealt with it! What God has buried in “the depths of the sea” and “removed as far as the east is from the west” was intended to be left alone. Leave the skeletons in the closet and move on – God has.
There are other truths that we could dive into this morning, but I want to keep it short and simple so we’ll wrap this up. Today, I challenge you to be a person of grace – both to yourself and to others. The issue is simple: if God has forgiven, we have no right to refuse to. And if there are areas of your own life that you haven’t given over to the forgiving hands of God yet, stop carrying it around needlessly. God waits to clean it up, dress your wounds, and help you begin your journey to healing. Let it begin today!

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who is still in the hospital and not home yet (as I said yesterday). She was supposed to go home Friday but the doctors are still concerned about several things that have yet to improve to the point that they would like them to, so keep praying.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck on Sunday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. He and one of his friends are currently in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Things to Remember...

Monday, September 12, 2011
Things to Remember… Yesterday we reached the 10th anniversary of the most horrific day in the history of our nation. Just saying or typing the phrase “September 11th” brings back a flood of memories that takes a few moments to process through all over again. It seems like everywhere people had the words “Always remember” or “Never forget” plastered up as a testimony of our commitment to always hold that day in high regard in our minds and hearts. I usually write a memorial blog on this day each year, so this morning I want us to focus on some things to remember…
You aren’t a free American by coincidence. It wasn’t simply by mere chance that you woke up this morning with the freedom to live your life in a way according to your choosing. Countless men and women have willingly put their lives on the line so you could live yours in freedom. There are multitudes of tombstones inscribed with the story of our freedom. Even today there are heroes wearing the flag that we pledge our allegiance to as they willingly walk into danger for us. Our freedom didn’t just happen – it was purchased.
God loves you. Everything He does comes from that angle. Your life may be hard, and there may be times that you don’t understand how He could allow some things to happen. You may wonder why He doesn’t intervene and stop some of the “bad” things going on around us all. While those two issues alone could spur a theological debate that would go on for ages, an answer wouldn’t make things any easier. The one truth that changes everything when it’s truly accepted is simply that He does love us. The cross proved that.
The devil hates you. Everything he does comes from that angle. From the first time we see him interacting with God’s creation of man, his hatred and disdain for what God made has been evident. He wants to destroy us, plain and simple. Many times he is successful, but only because we allow him to be. He feeds thoughts into our minds that are lies. And those lies are the ammo he uses to feed our doubts, not only about God but also about ourselves and who we are in God. His ultimate desire is to see us face the same fate that awaits him. But the cross can prevent that.
God has already won. No matter how defeated you may feel at times in the individual battles you find yourself in throughout life, don’t ever forget that the war has already been won! For those of us who are in Christ, the moment of pure victory came when the stone that sealed the slain Lamb of God inside another man’s borrowed tomb began to roll away. It happened just short of 2,000 years ago, but the victory is just as sweet today as ever. So hide this truth in your heart: every time satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. The rolling stone has proven that true.
Today, don’t let the enemy win. Claim the victory we already have through Christ when the devil comes up against you. Anything that comes from him is rooted in his hatred for us, remember that. And anything that comes from Him is rooted in His undying love for us, remember that. God bless this land we call the United States of America, and may this, the greatest country on earth, bless Him in return!

Please Pray:
*Continue to pray for the Summers, as they face the coming days of continued news and decisions about baby Morgan’s future.
*Continue to pray for Mary, who is now resting comfortably and recovering well at the home of a family member.
*Pray for a young man named Tanner and his two friends who were involved in an ATV wreck yesterday. His mom is a friend of mine, and these are scary days for her and the family. He and one of his friends are currently in ICU.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Walls.

Friday, September 09, 2011
Walls. Have you ever been hurt? Have you ever been betrayed? Have you ever been disappointed? Has someone you’ve trusted done something untrustworthy? Have you ever found yourself living in the regret of allowing yourself to be hurt, betrayed, disappointed or let down? You may very well be living inside a wall.
Walls serve a purpose, no doubt. In ancient Bible times walls were a primary source of defense for a city. It kept dangerous people out, and allowed only the safe, trusted people inside. There was a reason to have a wall, and if you didn’t your risk of being conquered and plundered was very high.
However, there are two types of compounds that commonly use walls, and they are eerily similar: fortresses and prisons. Both employ walls for defense. However, the differences in access are miles apart. If you were to reside in a fortress, your access to the outside world would be decided by yourself. Yet, in a prison it would be decided by others.
The question now raised is simple: is your heart in a fortress or a prison?
We’ve all been hurt, but the moment of truth in healing comes when you can honestly say that the hurt someone else has inflicted upon you isn’t governing your dealings with other people anymore. That’s not to say something wasn’t learned about how to relate to others. It simply means you are the one making the decisions, and you’re no longer allowing that person of the past to make them for you.
There’s some good news, as it relates to walls, though! Joshua led an army of people around the walls of the city of ancient Jericho once. God had given him specific instructions on what to do to see the walls crumble. God told him to march, with his people, around the entire city wall a specific number of times. After the final trip around he was instructed to have everyone blow their trumpets as loud as they could, after which the wall would fall.
The marching itself didn’t cause such a seismic event that the wall crumbled. The trumpets in and of themselves didn’t force the stones to topple off one another. It was God that brought the wall down, make no mistake about it. However, it was Joshua and his people’s obedience to what God had said that God chose to honor by keeping His own Words. And the wall came tumbling down.
So today, what is it: a fortress or a prison? The truth is that if it’s our heart inside the walls, sometimes there’s not a lot of difference if the walls prevent us from living. But trusting God and following Him with our lives can bring those walls down, many times faster than we think. So pick up your trumpet and start marching…God’s up to something today!

PS: Keep praying for Marty, Jordan and baby Morgan. A long road may lie ahead, but God’s faithfulness is as certain today as it’s ever been. Also keep praying for Mary – SHE’S GOING HOME either today or tomorrow! How big is our God!?! Also pray for the family of Mr. Max Lawson. I knew Max from my time in Hot Springs. He passed away, and they’ve asked me to do his funeral Saturday at 2pm in Hot Springs. Pray God gives me just the right words to speak comfort, hope, and the message of the Cross to this family.



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Perfect Timing.

Thursday, September 08, 2011
Perfect Timing. Have you ever had a time in your own life when you just couldn’t understand why things weren’t going the way you thought they should? Maybe there was a situation you were praying about, but the more you prayed the more it seemed as though nothing was happening. Maybe you were going through some tough stuff and it seemed as though God was nowhere to be found. You were crying for rescue, but for some reason you continued to remain in your situation. Maybe helplessness even began to set in. But just when the time was right…
It seems like every day I find myself being amazing at the timing of God. He doesn’t show up early, and He’s never late. I remember a song a friend of mine from church sings that rings so true: “He’s an on time God, yes He is. He may not come when you want Him, but He’ll be there right on time.” There’s some great theology in that simple song.
David had his own struggles with God’s timing throughout His life. Just imagine being anointed as the king of a nation, yet having to wait years to exercise that reign because your predecessor is still sitting on the throne! David had to trust God while Saul tried to cling to the throne that was rightfully his. It was all about timing.
There are probably as many explanations for the waiting of David as there are flavors of ice cream. I tend to believe that God was using that time of waiting to prepare David for the throne. God wanted David to be a “man after His own heart,” and not another Saul. In order for that to be the case, David had to wait. And the wait was worth it.
If I always got everything I pray for when I prayed for it, I can honestly say my life wouldn’t look anything like it does today. I don’t think I’d have any character or integrity, either. The waiting tends to teach you those things.
There are a few things in my life that I’ve wanted to do sooner, yet only found myself doing them at much later times. Many times I’ve chalked it up to my own fear or inability. However, I just believe that most of it stems from God’s timing at just the precise time of His own choosing. He knows what He’s doing – all the time, every time.
So today, don’t let yourself get frustrated or disheartened. God is still faithfully in control, and His promises will still be kept. And friend, believe me – it will all be worth it when they are.

PS: Marty, Jordan and baby Morgan are HOME! Please continue to pray for them in the days ahead! God has been, is, and will continue to be faithful in their lives! Also continue to pray for Mary, who will also be moved to another care facility in the coming days. God is good – always!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

All.

Wednesday, September 07, 2011
All. There are few words that hold as much mighty power as this little word, all. Though it’s only made up of 3 small letters, it has the potential to change our lives if we will stop to realize how many times God uses it. Just think with me for a moment this morning…
“All have sinned…” That doesn’t leave any wiggle room, does it? No matter what your background or upbringing, you’ve sinned. It doesn’t matter how much money your family has or doesn’t have, you’ve sinned. Whether you flip burgers or occupy a corner office, you are a sinner. When Scripture says we’ve all sinned, it’s laying out a blanket statement that covers every single man, woman, boy and girl that has ever existed since the first 2 humans in the Garden of Eden, with the exception of One Man who defeated sin. The rest of us are in the same boat.
“…all unrighteousness.” Though we’ve all sinned, God gives us another “all” that we can take great hope in. He tells us that, “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us of ALL unrighteousness.” There you go again – another huge blanket that covers everything! When we come to Christ, no matter what we’ve done – He promises to forgive it and cleanse it from our record! Whether you’ve murdered or maligned, it can be vanished! If you’ve lied or lusted, been a cheat or adulterer, or anything you know you’ve done – He offers full forgiveness. It can ALL be washed away!
The result of all our sin and all our unrighteousness being dealt with is incredible: He hears ALL our cries and sees ALL our tears. No matter how hard your life gets, or how many buckets of tears you cry, your Savior hears and sees them all. He’s near to the brokenhearted, and He promises a day when ALL our tears will be dried up to never wet our face again. That’s good stuff!
He also knows ALL our dreams. I’ll admit it – I’m a dreamer. So often I find myself daydreaming of the way I hope things will be in my future. And day by day I continue to find that things I once daydreamed about were small compared to His real plans for my life! His will and purpose for us are so much bigger than we expect. He’s the King of blowing my mind with His faithfulness! He has a track record of blessings better than I could have ever dreamed that continues to this very day, and only gets better and better!
So He deserves ALL my trust, faith, and confidence. I can fall headlong with reckless abandon into the arms of my Savior, because He’ll catch ALL of me, EVERY time. Who are you trusting in – and how good is their track record?

PS: Marty, Jordan and baby Morgan are HOME! Please continue to pray for them in the days ahead! God has been, is, and will continue to be faithful in their lives! Also continue to pray for Mary, who will also be moved to another care facility in the coming days. God is good – always!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!

Simple.

Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Simple. The world is complicated, and by all I can see is growing more so daily. It seems like everything around us is so multi-faceted that even the smallest of decisions are so involved. This just doesn’t work so well for me, because I’m wired for simplicity. (That’s a nice way to say I’m simple minded.) So today, take a minute and consider with me the most simple things in life.
Simple life. In a time when so much of what we do is second guessed and analyzed, wouldn't it be nice to live a life that is simple and not complicated? The Apostle Paul wrote that he had been “crucified with Christ” and that the life that he lived was no longer him but “Christ living in” him. Wouldn’t it make things so much simpler if we made the choice to just let Christ live through us? Simple lives can speak the loudest.
Simple words. People around us are hurting, and hearts around us are breaking. There’s never been a time when that’s been more apparent to me than right now. The things I say can be a simple salve to those wounds, though. You’ll never know how far that “Have a great day” will go until you hear a testimony of someone who had been beaten down by others’ words until they heard those. You’ll never know how much a “You’re doing a great job” means until you hear someone share of a time when they were really down on themselves until someone finally patted them on the back. You’ll never know how lifesaving an “I love you” can be until you hear the story of someone waiting for those 3 simple words to bring them joy again. Simple words can change simple lives.
Simple actions. When you take the time to stop and hold the door for that person at the grocery store, that may be the action that restores their dwindling faith in people. When you make eye contact with that homeless man as you tell him hello on the street, you may have just made him feel like a human being for the first time in years. When you shake the hand of that war veteran, you may have just given him the confirmation that his country actually does care what he did with his life. Simple actions can save simple lives.
Simple love. In a time when everything has to be planned out and structured, there are some things that should simply be allowed to happen. God has called us to show His love to a dying world, and He wants it done in a simple way. Those without Christ don’t have to know all the ins and outs of the deepest theology – they simply need to know that God loves them. Just as people in our lives don’t need to know every detail of the knowledge of the universe – they simply need to know that we love them. Simple love makes simple life worth living.
Simple Truth. God loves us. There has never been a more simple yet profound truth on this earth. The ironic thing is that the most important Truth we can ever accept in our lives has been proven in the most straight forward and simplest of ways. Look back almost 2,000 years to the Man named Jesus, hanging with arms outstretched and nailed in place. Hear Him as He cries out, “Father, forgive them for they don’t know what there are doing.” Hear the words, “It is finished.” And hear Him right now as He says to you, “I love you. It’s just that simple.” And realize that simple faith and trust in Him, asking Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior, will simply change your eternal destiny.
So you see, the best things in life are simple. Live like it today.
PS: please keep praying for Marty, Jordan, and baby Morgan. Word is they may go home this afternoon or tomorrow! God is faithful, and He'll continue to be in the coming days/months/years. Also keep praying for Mary - God is in control and He's making that apparent to her family and friends right now.


That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

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Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Labor Day Laborers

Friday, September 02, 2011
Labor Day Laborers. This upcoming Monday is Labor Day. For many that means a long weekend filled with family time and relaxing. Maybe that includes a trip to the lake, a trip to a distant relative's house in another town, or even a trip to a horse show (some of my readers will get that…) Regardless, Labor Day means the same for so many – a rest from a year of hard work. But it doesn’t mean that for everyone.
In order for most of us to enjoy a day off on Labor Day, there are many who can’t have a day off. For example, if you are in need of a police officer’s assistance on the holiday they will be available. That morning, men and women all across this country will wake up and put on the badge, just as they would on any other day. They’ll be willing to risk their lives for you, even on Labor Day.
Firehouses all across this land will be full of men and women ready to run to your aide should the need arise. Though the calendar may say “holiday”, their service to the people of the communities in which they live knows no bounds. If you are in need, they’ll be en route. They don’t just serve when it’s convenient – they serve when they’re needed.
If you need medical attention, doctors and nurses, along with paramedics and EMTs will be going about their normal duties as if it’s only another Monday. Baby Morgan Summers will get the same care as each other day, as will my friend Mary. While Labor Day means rest for many, it only means another day of work and service for those who take care of us when we need them the most.
Thousands of miles from home there are thousands upon thousands of men and women who also won’t be getting the day off. They’ll wake up, put on the uniform that bears the flag of this great nation, and go to work preserving our freedom and keeping us safe. Their foot patrols, humvee patrols, air patrols, intelligence gathering, or any of the other countless missions carried out on a daily basis will continue, unfaltering, because that’s what it takes to keep us safe. They don’t claim to be heroes, just people doing their jobs. And for that I’m forever grateful.
So whatever the job they are doing on Labor Day, keep an eye out for those who aren’t enjoying a day off while we are. If you see a man or woman in uniform serving their community, thank them. I began a practice after 9/11/01 that I have continued until today, and that is to never miss a chance to thank a man or woman in military uniform for what they do for my country. I have just decided I’ll expand that to men and women in law enforcement, fire service, and EMT work as well. Join me in showing the “Labor Day laborers” just how much we notice and appreciate all that they are doing on that special “day of rest.”
PS: Keep the prayers coming! Marty, Jordan, and baby Morgan Summers still need our prayers in the coming days. Good news has been welcomed, and God has shown Himself faithful as we knew He would through it all. Continue to pray for Mary, as well. In both cases God is on His throne, no doubt!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

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Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com

Clouded Vision.

Thursday, September 01, 2011
Clouded Vision. My parents have had a pool for the biggest part of my life. They had an above ground early on, and in my early teen years they had an in-ground put in. If you know anything about pools or pool maintenance, you know that chlorine is the secret ingredient that keeps the algae and bugs from taking over. If you know anything about chlorine, you know that it does a number on your eyes.
I remember getting out of the pool after swimming for a long time and having vision that was slightly clouded. My problem was that I would swim under water without goggles, opening my eyes as if it were no big deal. The result would be bloodshot eyes and messed up sight for a few minutes afterward. And that clouded sight would change everything my eyes laid themselves on.
Our lives can be the same way. Have you ever noticed that when you wake up in a negative mood, almost everything around you has a negative tint to it? Nothing seems to be right, everyone seems to be trying to get on your last nerve, traffic is worse than normal, etc. Even those things which would normally bring a smile to your face only cause you to grunt and grimace. And all this because of clouded vision. We can experience just the opposite, though.
I think there’s a difference between an optimist and a person of faith. The optimist sees everything as positive, even when they aren’t. It’s almost as if they are detached from reality to an extent. A person of faith sees things for what they are, whether good or bad. But even in that reality, they see an unseen Hand that’s going to make it all ok. They don’t call everything “good”, but they know that “God will make all things work together for the good of those who are the called according to His purpose.” And that makes it all ok.
I’ll admit that at times in my life my vision has been clouded by negativity and fear. I have experienced parts of the journey when I didn’t think I’d ever find my footing again. My trials weren’t any harder than anyone else’s – I just had clouded vision. But eventually, if we ask Him to, God can clear us up.
I’m walking in sunshine today. Though things can still go wrong, I ask Him to show me His hand through it all. That doesn’t mean I’ll always understand. As a matter of fact, I probably understand less now than I ever have. But I understand Who is in charge, and that makes all the difference.
They say hindsight is 20/20, and maybe that’s the way it’s supposed to be. The truth is I can look at where I am now in so many aspects of my life that bring me joy and excitement and see His hand steering my past heartaches in this direction. Though my vision was clouded then, I can see more clearly by the day. And He can do the same for you starting right now. All you have to do is ask.
PS: Keep praying for Marty, Jordan, and baby Morgan Summers. They finally got to hold their little bundle of joy last night! They have some more news and decisions in the coming days, but they’re trusting in Him to lead and guide step by step. Also keep praying for Mary – God is doing a work in her that only He can claim credit for! It’s amazing that when the doctors give no hope God has a way of doing the unexplainable and getting the credit!



That’s just a thought, and I welcome yours.
Until next time,
blake

This blog is brought to you courtesy of http://fromblake.blogspot.com. Visit today and sign up to become an official follower!
Feel free to write blake anytime at pastorblakeman@yahoo.com