OCC Messages (video)

One Day With Jesus

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 19:09:50 GMT

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him – Colossians 3:17, NIV

When Enoch had lived 65 years, he became the father of Methuselah. And after he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters.Altogether, Enoch lived 365 years. Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away – Genesis 5:21-24, NIV

The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him “Immanuel"—which means, "God with us” – Matthew 1:23, NIV

The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood – John 1:14, The Message

Morning

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed – Mark 1:35, NIV

Afternoon

There are a lot of “Type A” Christians following a “Type B” God

Evening

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus – Philippians 2:5, NIV

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth – Colossians 3:2, NIV

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things – Philippians 4:8, NIV

“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl – Job 31:1, NIV

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age --Matthew 28:20, NIV

Perform a daily review –

Watch for special moments –

Give it a try

Resources:

The Me I Want to Be, by John Ortberg
Surprise Me: A 30-Day Faith Experiment, by Terry Esau
Be the Surprise, by Terry Esau

Dressed For Success

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 19:56:20 GMT

Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. Ephesians 6:10-19 NASB

Who will bring judgment against God's elect? God is the one who justifies. Romans 8:33

Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you. James 4:7

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. Ephesians 6:10-19 NASB

Who will bring judgment against God's elect? God is the one who justifies. Romans 8:33

Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you. James 4:7

From Childbirth to Christlike

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:44:24 GMT

My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you – Galatians 4:19, NIV

Myth #1 – My faith will grow automatically

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose – Philippians 2:12-13, NIV

**Myth #2 – *The church is responsible for my spiritual growth***

Myth #3 – Spiritual formation is either a “head” trip or a “heart” trip

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength – Mark 12:30, NIV

1. THE NEW BIRTH

Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again – John 3:3, NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! - 2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV

"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life – John 5:24, NIV

2. GROWING IN CHRIST

Worldly (carnal) Christians –

Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, NIV

Spiritual (mature) Christians

What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building – 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, NIV

3. MATURITY IN CHRIST

“ … so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ” – Ephesians 4:12b-15, NIV

By Modeling

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. - 1 Corinthians 11:1, NIV

By Teaching

We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. Colossians 1:28, NIV

By Obeying

Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. John 14:21, NIV

Our flourishing self -

Our languishing self -

Drivers of Spiritual Growth

Suffering -

Serving –

Spiritual gifts –

Resources:

-Growing As a Christian 101, by Bruce Bickel & Stan Jantz

-The Me I Want to Be, by John Ortberg

-The Spirit of the Disciplines, by Dallas Willard

What to Get When You've Had a Bad Day

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:12:33 GMT

That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey His commands, for this is everyone’s duty. Ecclesiastes 12: 13

Solomon’s Great Experiment

The Set Up: I Can’t Get No Satisfaction!

KNOWLEDGE Ecclesiastes 1: 16-18

PLEASURE Ecclesiastes 2: 1-3

POSSESSIONS Ecclesiastes 2: 4-9

LABOR Ecclesiastes 4: 1-7

EMPTY WORSHIP Ecclesiastes 5: 1-7

WEALTH Ecclesiastes 5: 10-12

The Solution: Get Real with God! Ecclesiastes 12: 13

The Reality is a RELATIONSHIP of REVERENCE.

The Role is a SUPERFICIAL ACQUAINTANCE.

The Reality is a LOVING OBEDIENCE.

The Role is a MECHANICAL ROUTINE.

The Reality involves the WHOLE PERSON.

The Role involves SELECT PORTIONS.

The Summary: What To Get When You’ve Had A Bad Day!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all that you do, and He will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3: 5-6

TRUST the Lord, OBEY His Word, In EVERY AREA of My Life.

The End Part 3

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 23:52:51 GMT

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Matthew 24:42-44 NIV

Be Ready

It’s A Homecoming

Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 24:45-51 NIV

At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight the cry rang out: 'Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!' Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.' But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. 'Sir! Sir!' they said. 'Open the door for us!' But he replied, 'I tell you the truth, I don't know you.' Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour. Matthew 25:1-13 NIV

1. Trust in Jesus alone for the salvation of your soul, for the forgiveness of your sins.

Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:10,15 NLT

This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For there is only one God and one mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. 1 Timothy 2:3-6a NLT

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:9,13 NLT

2. Trust in Jesus daily (the gospel is for everyone, all the time)

3. Living your life to glorify Jesus, whom you trust

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. Matthew 25:31-34 NIV

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:35-40 NIV

For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. 1 Thessalonians 5:9,10 NLT

Live in HOPE for Praise

"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:23 NIV

Live in HOPE for Glory

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:1-5 NIV

The End Part 2

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:45:19 GMT

At that time if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or, 'There he is!' do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time. "So if anyone tells you, 'There he is, out in the desert,' do not go out; or, 'Here he is, in the inner rooms,' do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. Matthew 24:23-28 NIV

"Immediately after the distress of those days" 'the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light;the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken. Matthew 24:29 NIV

"At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other. "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. Matthew 24:30-32 NIV

I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Revelation 19:11-16 NIV

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Matthew 24:36 NIV

The Exact day and hour of Jesus’ Return is UNKNOWN

Jesus tells us he is returning SOON

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! Revelation 22:20 NLT

“Before the mountains were born you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” Psalm 90:2,4 NIV

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 2 Peter 3:8 NIV

For at just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all Lords. 1 Timothy 6:15 NLT

As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. Matthew 24:37-41 NIV

Jesus’ Return will come LIKE A THIEF IN THE NIGHT

Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 NIV

Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, “No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers and sisters who testify about their faith in Jesus. Worship only God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus.” Revelation 19:10 NLT

Jesus’ Return fills us with joy and gladness

So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:6,7 NLT

You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8,9 NLT

The End Part 1

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:26:49 GMT

As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. "Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of THE END of the age?" Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ, and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. Matthew 24:3-8 NIV

First Truth of Eschatology: It will get worse before it gets better

"Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." Matthew 24:9-14 NIV

Second Truth of Eschatology: It strengthens us for the theology of suffering

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:35-37 NIV

"So when you see standing in the holy place 'the abomination that causes desolation, spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand— then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let no one on the roof of his house go down to take anything out of the house. Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened." Matthew 24:15-22 NIV

As Jesus was leaving the Temple grounds, his disciples pointed out to him the various Temple buildings. But he responded, “Do you see all these buildings? I tell you the truth, they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” Matthew 24:1,2 NLT

TRIBULATION:

THE RAPTURE:

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that we who are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17 NIV

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 NIV

And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day. John 6:39, 40 NLT

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 NIV

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV

Third truth of Eschatology: it reminds us that God alone is our Peace

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Psalm 46:1-11 NIV

Success in the Wisdom Years

Sun, 30 May 2010 02:26:24 GMT

The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old. Proverbs 20:29 NIV

“The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority.” Mark 1:22 NIV

Increased Influence

These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel. Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 1:1-3, 7 NLT

Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. Then people who are not Christians will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others. 1 Thessalonians 4:11 NLT

Build Legacy

For our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me that I must soon leave this earthly life, so I will work hard to make sure you always remember these things after I am gone. 2 Peter 1:14,15 NLT

Be the Sage

Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Proverbs 26:12 NIV

Assaults:

The assault of Preference

And we who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

The assault of being Dismissed

Resources:

A Resilient Life, Gordon MacDonald

Halftime, Bob Buford

Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom

Waking the Dead, John Eldredge

Winning in the Executive Years

Sun, 23 May 2010 20:25:50 GMT

selfless LOVE

Awake, my soul! Psalm 57:8 NIV

Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord. Psalm 27:3,4 NIV

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7,8 NLT

Be imitators of God…and live a life of love…Ephesians 5:1,2 NIV

noble LEADERSHIP

The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. Proverbs 21:1 NIV

-yielded heart to God

In the course of time, David inquired of the Lord. “Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah? He asked. The Lord said, “Go up.” David asked, “Where shall I go?” “To Hebron,” the Lord answered. So David went up there…2 Samuel 1:1-2 NIV

-on behalf of others

When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan. Proverbs 29:2 NIV

And David knew that the Lord has established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. 2 Samuel 5:12 NIV

faithful STEWARD

ASSAULTS

1. Disappointment with SELF

Antidote: Don’t settle

2. Boredom

Antidote: give yourself away

God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:9,10 NLT

3. Addiction

Antidote: get healed

Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness! Matthew 25:23 NIV

Additional Reading:

Fathered by God, John Eldredge

Restoring the Christian Soul, Leanne Payne

The Way of the Wild Heart, John Eldredge

Conquering in the Wonder Years

Sun, 16 May 2010 22:09:31 GMT

And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. Luke 2:40 NIV

ADVENTURE

“I see my path, but I don't know where it leads. And not knowing where I'm going… is what inspires me to travel it.” -Rosalia de Castro

David said to Saul, "Your servant has been keeping his father's sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. 1 Samuel 17:34-35 NIV

Do I have WHAT IT TAKES?

It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle. Psalm 18:32-34 NIV

RESPONSIBILITY

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:17 NIV

“If you want children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibility on their shoulders.”- Abigail Van Buren

Can I HANDLE THIS?

Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." Saul said to David, "Go, and the LORD be with you." 1 Samuel 17:36-37 NIV

CONFIDENT

For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth. Psalm 71:5 NIV

As Goliath moved closer to attack, David quickly ran out to meet him. Reaching into his shepherd’s bag and taking out a stone, he hurled it with his sling and hit the Philistine in the forehead. The stone sank in, and Goliath stumbled and fell face down on the ground. 1 Samuel 17:48-49 NIV

Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. Psalm 27:3 NIV

Am I doing this RIGHT?

WOUNDS

1. WOUND OF FEAR

For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Isaiah 41:13 NIV

2. WOUND OF FAILURE

David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you… 1 Chronicles 28:20 NIV

The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. Proverbs 24:16 NIV

3. WOUND OF ABSENCE

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. Matthew 9:12 NIV

Thriving in the Exploring Years

Sun, 09 May 2010 19:36:04 GMT

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23 NLT

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. Ezekiel 36:26 NLT

I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons. 2 Corinthians 6:18 NIV

But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. Psalms 131:2 NIV

Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:9-11 NIV

No, I will not abandon you as orphans, I will come to you. John 14:18 NLT

DELIGHT

Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings...Psalm 17:8 NKJV

SURPRISE

Don’t neglect your mother’s teaching. Proverbs 1:8b NLT

A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a young mocker refuses to listen. Proverbs 13:1 NLT

Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it. Proverbs 22:6 NLT

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward. Matthew 10:42 NLT

WOUND

If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness. Proverbs 20:20 NLT

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 NLT

My dear child, don’t shrug off God’s discipline, but don’t be crushed by it either. It’s the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects. Hebrews 12:5,6 Message

God sent him (Jesus) to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.” Galatians 4:5,6 NLT

Oh! Ephraim is my dear, dear son, my child in whom I take pleasure! Everytime I mention his name, my heart bursts with longing for him! Everything in me cries out for him. Softly and tenderly I wait for him. Jeremiah 31:20 The Message

Open Mike

Sun, 02 May 2010 23:53:00 GMT

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT

1. Keep on PRESSING ON

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 NIV

David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished. 1 Chronicles 28:19-21 NIV

2. Be honest with God.

Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again, my Savior and my God! Psalm 42:10-11 NLT

The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:6-8 NLT

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

3. Appreciate what God IS doing

O Lord my God, You have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all Your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them.

Psalm 40:5 NLT

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:13 NLT

4. Do our part

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice. Proverb 31:8,9

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27

“We think the church is here for us. We forget that we ARE the church, and that we are here for the world.” –McManus

But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. Psalm 3:2-4 NIV

RISK to CELEBRATE

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 05:43:56 GMT

I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared to the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…Philippians 3:7,8 NLT

David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, "Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.

"But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. O LORD our God, as for all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name, it comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you. I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. O LORD, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you. 1 Chronicles 29:10-14, 16-18 NIV

You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9 NLT

Blessed are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face… Psalm 89:15 NKJV

www.occ.soulbyte.com

RISK to SACRIFICE

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:12:49 GMT

RISK to SERVE

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:20:22 GMT

RISK to GROW

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:28:01 GMT

RISK to BRING

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:27:32 GMT

Love God: Bringvitation

3 responses to the Mission of BRINGVITATION:

1. Pharisee response
2. Secularist response
3. Gospel response

But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? Romans 10:14 NLT

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s Word to them, four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!” Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!” Mark 2:1-12 NLT

Barrier 1: The Crowd.

Barrier 2: The House.

Overcome All Barriers

He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit

Titus 3:5 NIV

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of these men who heard what John had said and then followed Jesus. Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”). Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, “Your name is Simon, son of John—but you will be called Cephas” (which means “Peter”). John 1:40-42 NLT

Use Every Resource

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians. 4:5-6 NIV

Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.” 1 Corinthians. 9:19-23 NIV

Never Give UP

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect 1 Peter 3:15 NIV

Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5 NKJV (Sara, I think this is NLT, but could you make sure)

Each one bring one

For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37 NLT

RISK to GO

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:03:20 GMT

Grace

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:21:16 GMT

Sex

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:16:24 GMT

Marriage

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 07:33:29 GMT

Dating

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:22:08 GMT

OCC Messages (video)

One Day With Jesus

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Perform a daily review –

Watch for special moments –

Give it a try

Dressed For Success

From Childbirth to Christlike

Myth #1 – My faith will grow automatically

Myth #2 – The church is responsible for my spiritual growth

Myth #3 – Spiritual formation is either a “head” trip or a “heart” trip

1. THE NEW BIRTH

2. GROWING IN CHRIST

3. MATURITY IN CHRIST

By Modeling

By Teaching

By Obeying

Our flourishing self -

Our languishing self -

Drivers of Spiritual Growth

Suffering -

Serving –

Spiritual gifts –

Resources:

What to Get When You've Had a Bad Day

The End Part 3

Be Ready

It’s A Homecoming

1. Trust in Jesus alone for the salvation of your soul, for the forgiveness of your sins.

2. Trust in Jesus daily (the gospel is for everyone, all the time)

3. Living your life to glorify Jesus, whom you trust

Live in HOPE for Praise

Live in HOPE for Glory

The End Part 2

The Exact day and hour of Jesus’ Return is UNKNOWN

Jesus tells us he is returning SOON

Jesus’ Return fills us with joy and gladness

The End Part 1

First Truth of Eschatology: It will get worse before it gets better

Second Truth of Eschatology: It strengthens us for the theology of suffering

TRIBULATION:

THE RAPTURE:

Third truth of Eschatology: it reminds us that God alone is our Peace

Success in the Wisdom Years

Increased Influence

Build Legacy

Be the Sage

Assaults:

The assault of Preference

The assault of being Dismissed

Resources:

Winning in the Executive Years

selfless LOVE

noble LEADERSHIP

-yielded heart to God

faithful STEWARD

ASSAULTS

1. Disappointment with SELF

Antidote: Don’t settle

2. Boredom

Antidote: give yourself away

3. Addiction

Antidote: get healed

Conquering in the Wonder Years

ADVENTURE

Do I have WHAT IT TAKES?

Can I HANDLE THIS?

Am I doing this RIGHT?

1. WOUND OF FEAR

2. WOUND OF FAILURE

3. WOUND OF ABSENCE

Thriving in the Exploring Years

DELIGHT

SURPRISE

WOUND

Open Mike

1. Keep on PRESSING ON

2. Be honest with God.

**Myth #2 – *The church is responsible for my spiritual growth***