I for one cannot stand when church is boring. Now, everyone has their own preferences when it comes to church just like they do with everything else. And that's fine. People should attend a church where they feel they fit in and where they can be supportive of the work that's going on there. If you can't support the church you're in then I'll be the first to say go somewhere where you can instead of being a discouragement to those around you.
However, I personally don't understand why when you attend services in a lot of American churches you could easily mistake where you are for a funeral home, not a church. There could be several dead bodies around you and you wouldn't know it. You'd just say, "They're not dead, they're just in church." Unfortunately I find myself guilty of acting this way at times. Shame on me.
I fear we as Christians have our outlook wrong when it comes to how we should behave in church. I don't think God is so pleased with our lack of enthusiasm at times. Some people don't understand the desire to have that loud music and clapping with flashing lights and dare I say it...jumping up and down and dancing! And I'm not saying this is the only way that you can worship but why do so many people get all freaked out about those who like to have a little more pizazz at church? I don't get it.
If you don't want to get excited about church that's your choice and I can't tell you how to worship. But I will say this, Christians should be to the most excited people on the face of this earth because of everything Jesus has done for us and our lives should reflect that inside and outside of the four walls of the church. I admit I don't always do the best of conveying that message.
The world is surrounded by so much death as it is. They don't need to think that the Church is the same. I think it's safe to say that overall the world does not see the Church as attractive. Why would they when we can at times be so very boring? We preach hellfire and brimstone (and there is a time and a place for that) but find it hard to mention the amazing love and grace of God. We tell them that what we have is what they need and yet we don't give them any reason to believe that it's true. We live our lives and attend church so many times with an "I do it because I have to" attitude and "There's so many rules and regulations" instead of "I'm free from legalism and it's such a joy to be a Christian". No wonder they don't want to have anything to do with us.
In Romans the Bible says it's the kindness of God that leads us to repentance, not legalism and boredom. If we don't have anything to be excited about then the world might as well continue to live in sin. At least they're having fun. Sadly that's more than they can say about us at times.
I really don't think Jesus is in heaven saying, "Look at my children. They are going way overboard with the way they're celebrating everything I've done. I mean, really, all I did was live a perfect life, suffer a gruesome death on a cross and miraculously rise from the dead. And all I did was forgive their sins so they don't have to spent eternity in hell. I gave them the right to be called sons and daughters of God and I made them the very righteousness of God. They've been set free spiritually, emotionally and physically and can have abundant life while on earth and can have direct access to you, Father. I really don't know why they're so excited. They should just calm down. I wish they wouldn't make such a big deal out it."
I guarantee you, that's not what Jesus thinks. If anything I'm afraid He's wondering why we aren't more thankful for what He's done and looking for every opportunity to share it with the world. I think He's standing in our churches watching us during worship and asking, "Isn't what I've done worth more than this to you? Can't you go a little overboard for me? I saw you last week while you were watching that football game and you were pretty into it. Can't you get that energized for me? Jump up an down and scream for me! I want you to go crazy for me! I'm jealous for your affection. I want you to show the world that belonging to me is exciting! I want you to be as zealous for me as I am for you! You are running out of time! Go tell the world about what you've found before it's too late!"
I think we tend to forget that Jesus is right there with us in church. If we stopped to think about that more often we would probably act different but we seem to forget that. Instead I think we look at it as though He were in heaven looking down but maybe he's distracted by the Baptists down the road or the Methodists next door so He's not paying attention to us right now. No, he's right there with us and probably wondering why we're so apathetic.
Petra is one of my favorite bands of all time and I grew up listening to them. They are an awesome example of how you don't have to choose between good music or good lyrics. They never compromised either one and it seems like they have a song for everything. So, this song has been playing in my head as I write this. I will leave you with the lyrics. The second verse especially speaks to this topic.
STAND UP-PETRA
The battle cry is getting louder
The countdown's close to the final hour
The enemy is on every side
Still no match for the crucified
Victory unto victory
We are soldiers in His army
Stand up, take a stand for Jesus
Stand up, so the whole world sees us
Showing the way to a world gone astray
Shining our light with all of our might
Stand up, take a stand for Jesus
Stand up, so the whole world sees us
Following Him, serving Him
Fighting the fight that we know we will win
Out of the pews and into the streets
Making some use of our beautiful feet
Redeeming the time for the days are evil
This whole world's in such upheaval
We wrestle not with flesh and blood
But when the enemy comes in like a flood
Gotta lay our lives down
And stand up for the truth we've found
Gotta let the redeemed of the Lord say so
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
The joys of a laptop that can handle programs...
Since I have a new laptop I am able to run some new programs that my old one couldn't handle. I've always loved photography but never have used any sort of editing program. Until today that is. I'm having a blast messing with my pictures and thought I would share a few.
This is me and my friend Amanda the day she got married.
This is my niece Sophie playing in the leaves behind my Grandma's house.
And this is the Holland lighthouse known as "Big Red". I love the water and going to Lake Michigan has always been a summer highlight for me ever since I was a little kid. It's one of the great things about living in Michigan!
This is me and my friend Amanda the day she got married.
This is my niece Sophie playing in the leaves behind my Grandma's house. 
And this is the Holland lighthouse known as "Big Red". I love the water and going to Lake Michigan has always been a summer highlight for me ever since I was a little kid. It's one of the great things about living in Michigan!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
HIGH TREASON
As I was debating what to blog about today I once again drew a blank. So, with nothing inspiring to say I decided to look and see what happened this day in history. Much to my history-loving pleasure, I discovered that today in 1784 the United States ratified a peace treaty ending the Revolutionary War.
Thanks to all the brave men and women who went through things that we can only imagine, we now live in a free country. Through tracing genealogy I have found out that I have several ancestors who were in the Revolution. I am proud of their sacrifice and thankful that they thought of us and what freedom would mean for future generations. I wholeheartedly believe the Founding Fathers and those who sacrificed so much during this great period of our nation's history, as well as since then to preserve our freedom would be sorely disappointed, disheartened and downright offended at that way we have treated their sacrifice and for that we should be ashamed of ourselves.
I believe the day has come where we have to pick up where they left off and fight for freedom all over again, this time in a different way. Who knows what the future holds for us in this country. Will we have the courage they had? I pray we realize what's at stake and just how much we stand to lose if we are not willing to stand up for freedom.
I will leave you with a quote:
“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present Generation to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make good use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains
to preserve it.”
― John Adams
Thanks to all the brave men and women who went through things that we can only imagine, we now live in a free country. Through tracing genealogy I have found out that I have several ancestors who were in the Revolution. I am proud of their sacrifice and thankful that they thought of us and what freedom would mean for future generations. I wholeheartedly believe the Founding Fathers and those who sacrificed so much during this great period of our nation's history, as well as since then to preserve our freedom would be sorely disappointed, disheartened and downright offended at that way we have treated their sacrifice and for that we should be ashamed of ourselves.
I believe the day has come where we have to pick up where they left off and fight for freedom all over again, this time in a different way. Who knows what the future holds for us in this country. Will we have the courage they had? I pray we realize what's at stake and just how much we stand to lose if we are not willing to stand up for freedom.
I will leave you with a quote:
“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present Generation to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make good use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains
to preserve it.”
― John Adams
Monday, January 9, 2012
How Much Difference Can One Person Make?
I have often heard people say, "How much difference can one person really make?" I think if people were honest they would say that one of the things they desire most in life is to feel wanted and needed. To feel like they make a difference.
The world we live in sometimes makes it hard for us to have an impact. If we don't look or dress a certain way, have the right amount of education or come from the right kind of background we can at times be made to feel that what we think or have to say is of little or no importance and it can be hard to get anyone to pay attention to us.
However, recent events in our nation show just how important one person can be. The Iowa caucuses are proof that one person's values and opinions are very important. Or to be more specific, 8 people's.
By now everyone knows that only 8 votes in the WHOLE STATE of Iowa seperated the top two candidates in the recent state caucuses. 8 votes! In the whole state! If that isn't a perfect example of one person making a difference than I don't know what is.
The Bible is full of individuals who made big differences in the world around them. Everyone laughed at David when he said he would fight Goliath. That is until he killed him. Moses didn't think he could go before Pharoah but he did and he led the nation of Israel out of Egypt. Gideon was hiding when the Lord came to him but went on to do great things. Everyone thought Noah was insane for building a huge boat. That is until it rained. On the flip side, what about Hitler? Talk about one person making a huge difference in the world and not a good difference!
We all have ideas, dreams and convictions. Things we want to say but feel like we don't have an outlet to share those things. Sometimes that is true but a lot of times it could be that we overlook some very obvious ways to impact the world around us. I relate this post to the election because this is one of the hot topics right now.
For many years I've heard people give different reasons for not voting. Some say things like,
"One vote isn't going to make a difference" others say something like, "The Lord has everything under control and whatever he wants to have happen will happen so I just need to stay out of it." I want so bad to ask these people, "And just exactly how do you think the Lord works in these situations?" Does he rig the election? I mean, seriously, how is something like an election going to "magically" end up the way God wants it to?
If you are of this line of thinking then consider this. How does God's work on earth get accomplished? If everything just happened the way God wants it to happen then there would have never been original sin and we wouldn't be dealing with things like abortion, murder, rape, theft, lying, cheating, corruption, etc.
The truth of the matter is that God uses US, His people, to bring about His kingdom on earth and most of the time we do a poor job of it. And if you think that it's must be God's will to have people in office who stand for things that are in direct opposition to the things He desires then you should think again. The Bible says in Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan." That tells me that God cares about things like politics which means that we should care about them too.
God's kingdom will not come on this earth until we His people bring it. And one of the ways we bring it is by getting involved in things like elections where we are privileged enough to have a voice and take a stand for what is right. All over the world there are people who wish they had the rights that so many of us take for granted. People in other countries are rising up and revolting for the opportunity to have the voice that many of us don't even use.
As our primary elections are underway and the general election approaches, consider what you can do to make your voice heard. Get out there and vote. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." You might be surprised how much difference one person can make.
The world we live in sometimes makes it hard for us to have an impact. If we don't look or dress a certain way, have the right amount of education or come from the right kind of background we can at times be made to feel that what we think or have to say is of little or no importance and it can be hard to get anyone to pay attention to us.
However, recent events in our nation show just how important one person can be. The Iowa caucuses are proof that one person's values and opinions are very important. Or to be more specific, 8 people's.
By now everyone knows that only 8 votes in the WHOLE STATE of Iowa seperated the top two candidates in the recent state caucuses. 8 votes! In the whole state! If that isn't a perfect example of one person making a difference than I don't know what is.
The Bible is full of individuals who made big differences in the world around them. Everyone laughed at David when he said he would fight Goliath. That is until he killed him. Moses didn't think he could go before Pharoah but he did and he led the nation of Israel out of Egypt. Gideon was hiding when the Lord came to him but went on to do great things. Everyone thought Noah was insane for building a huge boat. That is until it rained. On the flip side, what about Hitler? Talk about one person making a huge difference in the world and not a good difference!
We all have ideas, dreams and convictions. Things we want to say but feel like we don't have an outlet to share those things. Sometimes that is true but a lot of times it could be that we overlook some very obvious ways to impact the world around us. I relate this post to the election because this is one of the hot topics right now.
For many years I've heard people give different reasons for not voting. Some say things like,
"One vote isn't going to make a difference" others say something like, "The Lord has everything under control and whatever he wants to have happen will happen so I just need to stay out of it." I want so bad to ask these people, "And just exactly how do you think the Lord works in these situations?" Does he rig the election? I mean, seriously, how is something like an election going to "magically" end up the way God wants it to?
If you are of this line of thinking then consider this. How does God's work on earth get accomplished? If everything just happened the way God wants it to happen then there would have never been original sin and we wouldn't be dealing with things like abortion, murder, rape, theft, lying, cheating, corruption, etc.
The truth of the matter is that God uses US, His people, to bring about His kingdom on earth and most of the time we do a poor job of it. And if you think that it's must be God's will to have people in office who stand for things that are in direct opposition to the things He desires then you should think again. The Bible says in Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan." That tells me that God cares about things like politics which means that we should care about them too.
God's kingdom will not come on this earth until we His people bring it. And one of the ways we bring it is by getting involved in things like elections where we are privileged enough to have a voice and take a stand for what is right. All over the world there are people who wish they had the rights that so many of us take for granted. People in other countries are rising up and revolting for the opportunity to have the voice that many of us don't even use.
As our primary elections are underway and the general election approaches, consider what you can do to make your voice heard. Get out there and vote. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." You might be surprised how much difference one person can make.
Monday, July 18, 2011
When Christians Use The "S" Word
I hate it when Christian’s use the “S” word. By “S” word I mean sovereignty. If any of you thought that my last post on Christian music was taking things a little too far then some of you will probably want to take me outside of the city and stone me after you read this. I’m not purposefully trying to stir up trouble but I feel like the issue of God’s sovereignty is one of the most misunderstood subjects in Christianity.
God’s sovereignty is probably one of the most talked about subjects in churches and among Christians today. I think the reason is because there are so many things that happen in this life that are unexpected and that we didn’t see coming and sometimes it’s hard to handle those things when they come our way. I mean things like sickness and disease, murder, rape, natural catastrophes, etc. More often then not the response you will hear from Christian people will be something like this, “Well, God knows best.” Or, “God is in control.” “It must be God’s will or it wouldn’t have happened that way.” I’m going to have to say that I disagree with these reasons.
Old Testament scripture is what people usually sight as “proof” that everything, good or bad, comes from God. Passages from Job are often quoted. We have to keep in mind that Job did not have a full revelation of who God was as we do now. And also at the end of the book of Job we find Job repenting and admitting that he “uttered what I did not understand.” One very important thing that we need to remember that I believe would change our understanding of these things is this: We must run everything through the cross. It acts like a filter. God did not change; but, His way of dealing with people changed after Jesus died on the cross. This is the good news of the gospel, which by the way, literally means “good news”.
The question we always hear from people is, “Why does God let bad things happen to good people?” You’ve heard that one right? The answer is really simple. God gave Adam and Eve a free will in the garden of Eden. They choose poorly and sinned and as a result we are living with the consequences of that. All the bad stuff that happens in this world is not a result of God not caring or not knowing what’s going on. It’s not a result of God willing or allowing bad things to happen to teach us a lesson, bring us closer to Him or even so that He will get the glory. What God allowed was man to have a choice in the beginning and we’re living with that choice still.
People often say “God can do anything He wants.” But that’s not true either. God cannot and will not break His word. It’s not an option. So if His word tells us that He is a good God and that He is a giver of good gifts then He cannot turn around and give bad things. He has limited Himself by His word. The truth of the matter is that people like to think that everything that happens is God’s will and we don’t have any say in the matter. It somehow is a comfort to them. There’s a feeling that if I can’t do anything about the situation anyway then I’ll just trust that God knows what he’s doing.
At the end of Matthew and Mark right before Jesus ascends back to heaven he gives his disciples authority in this world to go and make disciples, heal the sick, etc. A transfer of power took place in the garden of Eden. Man gave Satan power in this world when they sinned. Jesus came as the perfect sacrifice and atonement for sin and He’s now given the power to back to us. We as Christians need to realize where the bad stuff comes from and use the authority that’s been given us in Christ and stop blaming everything that happens on God’s sovereign will. I don’t think God likes to be blamed for doing something He hasn’t done anymore than the rest of us do.
Jesus tells us in John 10:10,
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
I don’t think it can get any plainer than that. But in case you’re still skeptical try James 1:17 which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”
You can remember it this way. If it’s good, it’s God. If it’s bad, it’s the devil. God is not guilty. Why do we blame God for bad things when the Bible plainly tells us that God is a giver of good things and it’s the devil who is behind the bad stuff? I love how James says it, there’s not even a hint of God changing. I choose to believe that God’s word is true and if it is then the bad things can’t possibly come from Him.
In Matthew 7 Jesus says this:
“Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”
I don’t have kids but I have two beautiful nieces and a nephew on the way that I love very much. And I know that as much as I love them it can’t possibly compare to how much God loves us. I wouldn’t cause my nieces and nephew pain just to get their attention, even if they were doing wrong. I want good things for them. I want them to have the least amount of heartache and hurt as possible. And as an Aunt I would never, ever even consider hurting them in anyway just to teach them a lesson. So why do we think God who loves us even more would ever do those things to us?
We are also told in Hebrews chapter 1 that,
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person…”
The Bible is telling us that Jesus is the “express image” of God the Father. If that’s the case then everything Jesus said and did was a reflection of what God the Father wants for us. Jesus went around healing people and setting them free not bringing bad things upon them so that they would be taught lessons. Everything Jesus did was good.
Acts 10:38 says
“how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil for God was with Him”
He healed all; not just some. Not just those who deserved it or the ones He felt like healing. He healed them all. And notice it says that it’s the devil who was oppressing them. I think it leaves a bad witness to the world when we as Christians tell unsaved people the reasons bad things are happening to us or to them is because God has caused it or wants it that way.
Why on earth would anyone be remotely interested in a God who wants bad things to happen to us? You’ve got to be kidding! No thank you! Try telling a rape victim or someone who has cancer, “Well God must be trying to teach you something or else this wouldn’t be happening to you. God’s trying to get your attention.” If I was unsaved and a Christian told me that I think I’d run as far in the other direction as I possibly could. Why then are we so surprised when people don’t want to have anything to do with Christianity when this is what we tell them?
I will leave you with this thought. I once heard a preacher say something that I’ll never forget concerning the sovereignty of God. And while it makes me laugh, it’s so true. He said this, “The next time someone starts talking about God being sovereign; slap them. And when they get all mad and ask you why you did it tell them that it must have been God’s will otherwise it couldn’t have happened!”
Think about that next you time you use the “S” word and give God the credit for something. It might not be any of His doing.
God’s sovereignty is probably one of the most talked about subjects in churches and among Christians today. I think the reason is because there are so many things that happen in this life that are unexpected and that we didn’t see coming and sometimes it’s hard to handle those things when they come our way. I mean things like sickness and disease, murder, rape, natural catastrophes, etc. More often then not the response you will hear from Christian people will be something like this, “Well, God knows best.” Or, “God is in control.” “It must be God’s will or it wouldn’t have happened that way.” I’m going to have to say that I disagree with these reasons.
Old Testament scripture is what people usually sight as “proof” that everything, good or bad, comes from God. Passages from Job are often quoted. We have to keep in mind that Job did not have a full revelation of who God was as we do now. And also at the end of the book of Job we find Job repenting and admitting that he “uttered what I did not understand.” One very important thing that we need to remember that I believe would change our understanding of these things is this: We must run everything through the cross. It acts like a filter. God did not change; but, His way of dealing with people changed after Jesus died on the cross. This is the good news of the gospel, which by the way, literally means “good news”.
The question we always hear from people is, “Why does God let bad things happen to good people?” You’ve heard that one right? The answer is really simple. God gave Adam and Eve a free will in the garden of Eden. They choose poorly and sinned and as a result we are living with the consequences of that. All the bad stuff that happens in this world is not a result of God not caring or not knowing what’s going on. It’s not a result of God willing or allowing bad things to happen to teach us a lesson, bring us closer to Him or even so that He will get the glory. What God allowed was man to have a choice in the beginning and we’re living with that choice still.
People often say “God can do anything He wants.” But that’s not true either. God cannot and will not break His word. It’s not an option. So if His word tells us that He is a good God and that He is a giver of good gifts then He cannot turn around and give bad things. He has limited Himself by His word. The truth of the matter is that people like to think that everything that happens is God’s will and we don’t have any say in the matter. It somehow is a comfort to them. There’s a feeling that if I can’t do anything about the situation anyway then I’ll just trust that God knows what he’s doing.
At the end of Matthew and Mark right before Jesus ascends back to heaven he gives his disciples authority in this world to go and make disciples, heal the sick, etc. A transfer of power took place in the garden of Eden. Man gave Satan power in this world when they sinned. Jesus came as the perfect sacrifice and atonement for sin and He’s now given the power to back to us. We as Christians need to realize where the bad stuff comes from and use the authority that’s been given us in Christ and stop blaming everything that happens on God’s sovereign will. I don’t think God likes to be blamed for doing something He hasn’t done anymore than the rest of us do.
Jesus tells us in John 10:10,
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
I don’t think it can get any plainer than that. But in case you’re still skeptical try James 1:17 which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”
You can remember it this way. If it’s good, it’s God. If it’s bad, it’s the devil. God is not guilty. Why do we blame God for bad things when the Bible plainly tells us that God is a giver of good things and it’s the devil who is behind the bad stuff? I love how James says it, there’s not even a hint of God changing. I choose to believe that God’s word is true and if it is then the bad things can’t possibly come from Him.
In Matthew 7 Jesus says this:
“Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”
I don’t have kids but I have two beautiful nieces and a nephew on the way that I love very much. And I know that as much as I love them it can’t possibly compare to how much God loves us. I wouldn’t cause my nieces and nephew pain just to get their attention, even if they were doing wrong. I want good things for them. I want them to have the least amount of heartache and hurt as possible. And as an Aunt I would never, ever even consider hurting them in anyway just to teach them a lesson. So why do we think God who loves us even more would ever do those things to us?
We are also told in Hebrews chapter 1 that,
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person…”
The Bible is telling us that Jesus is the “express image” of God the Father. If that’s the case then everything Jesus said and did was a reflection of what God the Father wants for us. Jesus went around healing people and setting them free not bringing bad things upon them so that they would be taught lessons. Everything Jesus did was good.
Acts 10:38 says
“how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil for God was with Him”
He healed all; not just some. Not just those who deserved it or the ones He felt like healing. He healed them all. And notice it says that it’s the devil who was oppressing them. I think it leaves a bad witness to the world when we as Christians tell unsaved people the reasons bad things are happening to us or to them is because God has caused it or wants it that way.
Why on earth would anyone be remotely interested in a God who wants bad things to happen to us? You’ve got to be kidding! No thank you! Try telling a rape victim or someone who has cancer, “Well God must be trying to teach you something or else this wouldn’t be happening to you. God’s trying to get your attention.” If I was unsaved and a Christian told me that I think I’d run as far in the other direction as I possibly could. Why then are we so surprised when people don’t want to have anything to do with Christianity when this is what we tell them?
I will leave you with this thought. I once heard a preacher say something that I’ll never forget concerning the sovereignty of God. And while it makes me laugh, it’s so true. He said this, “The next time someone starts talking about God being sovereign; slap them. And when they get all mad and ask you why you did it tell them that it must have been God’s will otherwise it couldn’t have happened!”
Think about that next you time you use the “S” word and give God the credit for something. It might not be any of His doing.
Monday, July 11, 2011
When Christian Music Isn't Christian
The following thoughts have been going around in my mind lately and then I talked to my brother and he was having some similar thoughts so I decided to write about it.
How many times have you heard Christians talk about listening to only Christian music? You may have heard any of the following statements: "I don't listen to secular music because it doesn't glorify God" or "I only listen to Christian music because it edifies me and secular music doesn't." Part of both of these statements can be true. But, I would like to pose a question. What about when Christian music isn't Christian?
Before I go any further let me say that I'm not writing this to bring down any particular Christian artists or the radio stations that play them. I won't be mentioning any artists names. I believe they have the very best of intentions but I also believe at times they are very wrong.
So, back to my question, what about when Christian music isn't Christian? Some of you are probably thinking that that's not even possible. Sometimes I think we get into trouble by assuming that just because something is labeled "Christian" then it must be theologically correct. We tend to swallow everything hook, line and sinker without stopping to think what the Bible has to say about the subject.
Do we do that with preachers? I hope not. I think that most people would say that when they hear a new preacher or teacher they are careful to weigh what is being said against the counsel of scripture. Hopefully we do that all the time even with those that we hear on a regular basis. Why then don't we do the same with Christian music? It's a valid question.
I know many people who don't listen to secular music or allow their children to either. That's their privilege and I think there is a time for that. When my brother and I were younger we were not allowed to listen to much secular music either. I know that their is a lot of bad music out there but I think there is a lot that is good also that falls under the "secular" label.
My point is this: Why refuse to listen to a song simply because it is labeled "secular" when a "Christian" song you are listening to may be biblically inaccurate and may be shaping your views and opinions about God in a way that is damaging to your faith and not glorifying to God?
When asked why they believe a certain way I have heard people say, "Well that's what that one song we sing in church says." In other words, we don't know our Bible well enough to know if what we are singing is accurate or not. The songwriters have now become the final authority instead of the Bible.
This should be a challenge to those of us who write songs to make sure that what we are writing is correct. When I was a worship leader I tried very carefully to only sing songs that I believed were biblically accurate and because of that there were some popular songs that we didn't sing when I led.
I find that I get more and more disgusted when I turn on Christian radio. It's more discouraging than it is encouraging. If I listen to it for very long I find that I have to remind myself of the reasons why I don't believe all the things I've just heard. That leaves me wondering what the point was in even listening to it in the first place.
The bottom line in my mind is that we shouldn't discredit something just because it's labeled "secular" in the same way that we shouldn't assume that everything we hear in "Christian" songs are gospel truth. We should know God's Word well enough to be able to tell when something doesn't line up. And if we're not sure then we need to be willing to take the time to read and see what the Bible really says. Just some things to think about the next time you turn on your radio.
How many times have you heard Christians talk about listening to only Christian music? You may have heard any of the following statements: "I don't listen to secular music because it doesn't glorify God" or "I only listen to Christian music because it edifies me and secular music doesn't." Part of both of these statements can be true. But, I would like to pose a question. What about when Christian music isn't Christian?
Before I go any further let me say that I'm not writing this to bring down any particular Christian artists or the radio stations that play them. I won't be mentioning any artists names. I believe they have the very best of intentions but I also believe at times they are very wrong.
So, back to my question, what about when Christian music isn't Christian? Some of you are probably thinking that that's not even possible. Sometimes I think we get into trouble by assuming that just because something is labeled "Christian" then it must be theologically correct. We tend to swallow everything hook, line and sinker without stopping to think what the Bible has to say about the subject.
Do we do that with preachers? I hope not. I think that most people would say that when they hear a new preacher or teacher they are careful to weigh what is being said against the counsel of scripture. Hopefully we do that all the time even with those that we hear on a regular basis. Why then don't we do the same with Christian music? It's a valid question.
I know many people who don't listen to secular music or allow their children to either. That's their privilege and I think there is a time for that. When my brother and I were younger we were not allowed to listen to much secular music either. I know that their is a lot of bad music out there but I think there is a lot that is good also that falls under the "secular" label.
My point is this: Why refuse to listen to a song simply because it is labeled "secular" when a "Christian" song you are listening to may be biblically inaccurate and may be shaping your views and opinions about God in a way that is damaging to your faith and not glorifying to God?
When asked why they believe a certain way I have heard people say, "Well that's what that one song we sing in church says." In other words, we don't know our Bible well enough to know if what we are singing is accurate or not. The songwriters have now become the final authority instead of the Bible.
This should be a challenge to those of us who write songs to make sure that what we are writing is correct. When I was a worship leader I tried very carefully to only sing songs that I believed were biblically accurate and because of that there were some popular songs that we didn't sing when I led.
I find that I get more and more disgusted when I turn on Christian radio. It's more discouraging than it is encouraging. If I listen to it for very long I find that I have to remind myself of the reasons why I don't believe all the things I've just heard. That leaves me wondering what the point was in even listening to it in the first place.
The bottom line in my mind is that we shouldn't discredit something just because it's labeled "secular" in the same way that we shouldn't assume that everything we hear in "Christian" songs are gospel truth. We should know God's Word well enough to be able to tell when something doesn't line up. And if we're not sure then we need to be willing to take the time to read and see what the Bible really says. Just some things to think about the next time you turn on your radio.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Tulip Color #'s 3 and 4!
Today is the perfect first day of May! It's 70 degrees and sunny which is so different from the weather we've been having. I think that is part of the reason the rest of the tulips have finally popped out!
The first two pictures are of the third and final variety that I bought in Holland. It is called "Gavota" and is a darker purple than the "Negrita" and has a yellow stripe on the edge. The third picture is a tulip from one of the $1 pots that we bought at Wal-mart and even though it looks somewhat red it's actually pink.
The last picture is the view you see when coming up the driveway. I still say it's looks like candy! There is one tulip left that hasn't bloomed. We had a lone red tulip in our orchard that we transplanted along the driveway and I'm not sure if it's going to bloom this year or not. It's smaller and it may be a later variety or we may have just traumatized it too much! Time will tell.
The first two pictures are of the third and final variety that I bought in Holland. It is called "Gavota" and is a darker purple than the "Negrita" and has a yellow stripe on the edge. The third picture is a tulip from one of the $1 pots that we bought at Wal-mart and even though it looks somewhat red it's actually pink.
The last picture is the view you see when coming up the driveway. I still say it's looks like candy! There is one tulip left that hasn't bloomed. We had a lone red tulip in our orchard that we transplanted along the driveway and I'm not sure if it's going to bloom this year or not. It's smaller and it may be a later variety or we may have just traumatized it too much! Time will tell.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
More Tulip Pictures
Just thought I'd share a few photos of the tulips from the last day or so as they have really opened up. Color #3 started opening today so by tomorrow I should be able to post a picture of that one. Tulip Festival starts 1 week from today!!! I'll have lots of pictures to post after that.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tulip Color # 2...
Yesterday when Mom and Dad got home from town, Mom had a surprise for me. She had found potted tulips leftover from Easter on clearance at Wal-mart for $3! So this first picture of the yellow one is one of those. There were 6 or 7 bulbs in the pot so we divided them up and planted them alongside the others. The yellow really makes the purple ones stand out!
The picture below is the second tulip to bloom of the ones I bought in Holland last year. This variety is called Apeldoorn Elite and just started opening today. Now we're just waiting on the third variety to bloom. They look like candy and it's really hard to not want to pick them!
The picture below is the second tulip to bloom of the ones I bought in Holland last year. This variety is called Apeldoorn Elite and just started opening today. Now we're just waiting on the third variety to bloom. They look like candy and it's really hard to not want to pick them!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Impatiently Waiting....
I have a thing for tulips. Besides roses they are my favorite flower. So you can about imagine that I went crazy last year when I went to the Tulip Festival in Holland, Michigan. I bought 30 tulip bulbs, 10 each of 3 different varieties. They arrived in the mail last fall and Mom and I planted them in 3 different groups along the driveway and 1 group in front of the mailbox.
Since then I have been keeping a close eye on them hoping that we had planted them correctly and they were going to grow properly. I also was watching them closely since we are overrun with rabbits who love to munch on them! I bought some spray that is supposed to keep the rabbits and deer away from them and so far they have stayed away.
Since September I have been impatiently waiting and finally today I was rewarded with the first one of the tulips to open so far this spring! This is the Negrita variety. I'm anxious to see what the other two varieties look like.
Since then I have been keeping a close eye on them hoping that we had planted them correctly and they were going to grow properly. I also was watching them closely since we are overrun with rabbits who love to munch on them! I bought some spray that is supposed to keep the rabbits and deer away from them and so far they have stayed away.
Since September I have been impatiently waiting and finally today I was rewarded with the first one of the tulips to open so far this spring! This is the Negrita variety. I'm anxious to see what the other two varieties look like.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Today in 1775
"Listen my children and you shall hear
Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,
On the eighteenth of April, in seventy-five;
Hardly a man is now alive
Who remembers that famous day and year."
I remember hearing this poem as a kid and picturing it in my head. Who knows how or why we get mental pictures the way we do but I remember seeing it all play out in my head whenever I heard this poem. It was so surreal and yet very real all at the same time. There's something about this first verse that to this day still sends chills through me.
On the night of April 18, 1775, silversmith Paul Revere made his famous ride to Lexington, Massachusetts to warn Samuel Adams and John Hancock that the British were marching from Concord to Boston that night to arrest them and to seize military supplies.
Contrary to Longfellow's poem, lanterns were not hung in the tower of the Old North Church to signal to Revere how the British were moving, "one if by land, two if by sea"; but rather Paul Revere ordered the signal to warn other Patriots in the area.
After Revere reached Lexington, successfully warning Samuel Adams and John Hancock of the coming danger he got back on his horse and set our for Concord although he never made it. He was captured by the British along the way but a companion of his escaped and road on to Concord where he alerted the Patriots there. Paul Revere was later released by the British and he accomplished what he set out to do as word travelled from town to town warning the minutemen to be ready.
We need to be modern-day Paul Revere's. We are on the brink of losing the freedoms that these men and women risk their lives to give us. We need to be the watchmen on the walls, modern-day Patriots, ready to run with the warning when we see danger approaching. When I was in Boston in 2008 I was able to go to the Old North Church which is now in the Little Italy section of Boston. I went inside the church, sat in the pews and took the picture that you see here. I was also able to go to the Old Granary Burial Ground which is one of the oldest graveyards in Boston and it's where Paul Revere is buried. I kept pinching myself all day long thinking to myself how amazing it was that I was actually standing where these very things happened. They're not just pretty words out of a poem. These things actually happened. They are very real and as Americans they belong to us. The future of the nation was in their hands. Now it's in ours. It's time to ride.
Friday, February 4, 2011
A Few Strings Attached
I have a new guitar! However... there are some strings attached. It's not mine and I can't keep it. This week my brother called and said he had found a guitar on Craigslist here in Michigan. He wanted to buy it in order to resell it and make some money. Since he lives in Colorado he wanted to know if I would go pick it up for him and ship whenever he sold it. I said I would.
This guitar was a steal for the price. It's a Fender American Deluxe Telecaster and it's in mint condition. I think I've said in earlier posts how I have a "thing" for Fender guitars... well I've always wanted a Telecaster and having this one around the house just makes it worse. I've been playing it but it's so cold upstairs right now that my hands started hurting and I finally quit. I decided to take a picture of all the Fender guitars under our roof (the other two are mine) while this one is still around. They're just so pretty to look at.
The bass is the one that I wrote about in an early post this fall. It was the one I had to wait for since it was on backorder. I like it a lot just like I knew I would. I'm trying not to let myself get attached to the Telecaster because I know I can't keep it. :( And to make things worse this guitar is the exact same model that Merle Haggard is holding on the cover of his autobiography Sing Me Back Home. *BIG SIGH*
I think I should get some sort of compensation for the emotional distress this whole process has caused me!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
10 1/2 Inches Later
Well, the totals are in and looks like we received 10 1/2 inches of snow on our back deck from the storm. I think it probably would've been more if we had measured in the yard but I wasn't going to wade out there to check.
We did get out of the house for a good portion of the day today and it felt so nice to have the sun out.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Blizzards and Coyote Hunting
I haven't blogged much lately because there hasn't been much to blog about and because it's so hard to get pictures to load that unless it's something really important, I don't feel like messing with it. We are bracing for a huge winter storm here in southern Michigan. It started snowing about an hour ago and visibility has been greatly reduced. The wind is blowing and it's very cold. We decided to stick a ruler out on the deck and continue to measure the snow. The picture is a little misleading because there's more than 1 1/2 of snow on the ground. This picture was taken on the back deck where there isn't as much snow as out in the yard. So, we'll see by tomorrow how much more the deck has on it.
Dad took advantage of the snow that was already on the ground by going coyote hunting; one of his favorite things to do in the winter. Today he got one and even though you can't tell by the picture; it was stiff as a board by the time he got home with it.
We have gone to the library and stocked up on movies to watch since we probably won't get out of the house until Thursday. They are calling for as much as 20" of snow in some parts of Michigan. Up until now winter hasn't been all that bad. I guess that all ends now! Stay warm.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
390 Years Ago Yesterday
390 years ago yesterday... yes, 390; the Pilgrims first set foot in Plymouth, Massachusetts. I have been to Plymouth a couple of times and it is one of my favorite places to visit. I love history and that place is full of it!
It's a shame but most people today don't know very much of our nation's history. At least, they don't know it accurately. These people that we commonly refer to as "Pilgrims" endured harships that we can't even imagine. Not only did they come for religious freedom, they came as missionaries to a new world.
I toured the replica of the Mayflower one of the times I was in Plymouth vacationing with friends and let me tell you; it was no luxury cruise ship! 102 passengers plus crew all packed onto one tiny ship for a two month voyage across the sea. It is so small and cramped it's a wonder that any of them made it over here alive. When we walked off of the boat I looked at the girls and said, "The Pilgrims are my new heroes!" To endure such hardships they must have had very strong convictions in their reasons for coming here.
Gov. William Bradford (who's grave I have seen), wrote in his book, Of Plymouth Plantation, that despite many setbacks they, "committed themselves to the will of God and resolved to proceed." Because of their "resolve" to carry on, you and I are enjoying a life in this "new world" as they termed it, benefiting from their sacrifies. Just because they survived the two month journey (which not everyone did) didn't mean that they had it easy from then on. They went on to face many more obstacles the likes of which we will probably never have to see.
So as Christmas approaches this week let's be thankful that there were those who came before us and thought of posterity more than their own comforts. Let's also think ahead to what will be said of us... 390 years from today!
It's a shame but most people today don't know very much of our nation's history. At least, they don't know it accurately. These people that we commonly refer to as "Pilgrims" endured harships that we can't even imagine. Not only did they come for religious freedom, they came as missionaries to a new world.
I toured the replica of the Mayflower one of the times I was in Plymouth vacationing with friends and let me tell you; it was no luxury cruise ship! 102 passengers plus crew all packed onto one tiny ship for a two month voyage across the sea. It is so small and cramped it's a wonder that any of them made it over here alive. When we walked off of the boat I looked at the girls and said, "The Pilgrims are my new heroes!" To endure such hardships they must have had very strong convictions in their reasons for coming here.
Gov. William Bradford (who's grave I have seen), wrote in his book, Of Plymouth Plantation, that despite many setbacks they, "committed themselves to the will of God and resolved to proceed." Because of their "resolve" to carry on, you and I are enjoying a life in this "new world" as they termed it, benefiting from their sacrifies. Just because they survived the two month journey (which not everyone did) didn't mean that they had it easy from then on. They went on to face many more obstacles the likes of which we will probably never have to see.
So as Christmas approaches this week let's be thankful that there were those who came before us and thought of posterity more than their own comforts. Let's also think ahead to what will be said of us... 390 years from today!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Merry Christmas
One of my favorite times of the year is fast approaching. I love the Christmas season. The combination of family together, the beauty of the Christmas tree decorated and beautifully lit, the good food that I eat too much of, the snow on the ground (hopefully) and yes the presents under the tree all leave me feeling warm and cozy inside. And although I have been called a grinch because I don't like most Christmas music... it's still one of my favorite times of the year.
Sometimes it's hard to keep perspective in the world we live in. Christmas for many people has become just another money-making holiday that is so commericalized that most of the world has lost sight of the true meaning of the season.
These days we live in a society obssessed with political correctness. It's not politically correct to say "Merry Christmas". Instead we're supposed to say "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings" or replace Christ with simply an "x", lest we offend anyone. I've never been politically correct and I'm not about to start being that way now.
Why is it that anything that includes the name "Christ" in it has to be found as offensive? I believe it's because the name of Jesus Christ is powerful. And what the world needs most is to know Jesus Christ intimately as Lord and Saviour. The devil knows his time is short and he is working overtime to keep people from the truth.
Christmas is all about Jesus Christ coming to this earth in human form and redeeming us from our hopeless state. And I'm sure that Satan loves it when the world forgets about that. Whenever I'm at the store or anywhere where people say "Happy Holidays", I have made it a point to say "Merry Christmas" instead.
We as Christians have been given the ministry of reconcilation (2 Cor. 5:19) to tell the world of what Jesus has done. What better time to do that than right now during this Christmas season? In Luke 2:14 the angels are announcing the birth of Christ and the Bible says, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" The word for "peace" here in the Greek is, "eirene" and means, "A state of rest, quietness, and calmness; an absence of strife; tranquilty and includes a harmonious relationship between God and men, men and men, nations and families."
The world we live in is in desperate need of this message. Let's take it to them and fulfill the Great Commission. Merry CHRISTMAS!!!
Sometimes it's hard to keep perspective in the world we live in. Christmas for many people has become just another money-making holiday that is so commericalized that most of the world has lost sight of the true meaning of the season.
These days we live in a society obssessed with political correctness. It's not politically correct to say "Merry Christmas". Instead we're supposed to say "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings" or replace Christ with simply an "x", lest we offend anyone. I've never been politically correct and I'm not about to start being that way now.
Why is it that anything that includes the name "Christ" in it has to be found as offensive? I believe it's because the name of Jesus Christ is powerful. And what the world needs most is to know Jesus Christ intimately as Lord and Saviour. The devil knows his time is short and he is working overtime to keep people from the truth.
Christmas is all about Jesus Christ coming to this earth in human form and redeeming us from our hopeless state. And I'm sure that Satan loves it when the world forgets about that. Whenever I'm at the store or anywhere where people say "Happy Holidays", I have made it a point to say "Merry Christmas" instead.
We as Christians have been given the ministry of reconcilation (2 Cor. 5:19) to tell the world of what Jesus has done. What better time to do that than right now during this Christmas season? In Luke 2:14 the angels are announcing the birth of Christ and the Bible says, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" The word for "peace" here in the Greek is, "eirene" and means, "A state of rest, quietness, and calmness; an absence of strife; tranquilty and includes a harmonious relationship between God and men, men and men, nations and families."
The world we live in is in desperate need of this message. Let's take it to them and fulfill the Great Commission. Merry CHRISTMAS!!!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
I've been wanting to post something but not much has gone on of note so I decided to just do a short post with one picture.
In the fall of '02 thru the spring of '03 I attended Rosedale Bible College. There I met lost of people and walked away with some amazing friendships. Anyone who has ever gone to school at RBC can testify the strong friendships that are formed there. It's something special no doubt.
This week Mom and Dad were out of town so I've been hanging with my good friend Kristi Bender who I met while attending RBC. It used to be that a group of us girls would get together at least once a year for some sort of trip. It's getting harder to do that as time goes on. I'm glad Kris only lives 45 mintues away because we get to see each other quite often that way. When we're together we're usually wishing everyone else could be here too. It's hard telling what will happen whenever we're together. If you don't hear from me again it's because Kristi killed me for putting this picture up!
Thank you, Rosedale Bible College.
In the fall of '02 thru the spring of '03 I attended Rosedale Bible College. There I met lost of people and walked away with some amazing friendships. Anyone who has ever gone to school at RBC can testify the strong friendships that are formed there. It's something special no doubt.
This week Mom and Dad were out of town so I've been hanging with my good friend Kristi Bender who I met while attending RBC. It used to be that a group of us girls would get together at least once a year for some sort of trip. It's getting harder to do that as time goes on. I'm glad Kris only lives 45 mintues away because we get to see each other quite often that way. When we're together we're usually wishing everyone else could be here too. It's hard telling what will happen whenever we're together. If you don't hear from me again it's because Kristi killed me for putting this picture up!
Thank you, Rosedale Bible College.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Wedding Part 2
This was my bouquet for the wedding. I thought they were so pretty and that it looked cool with the blue paint from the barn in the background. 
We took pictures at an old homestead and this old barn made for a great backdrop.
I was so excited when Amanda told me that the entire bridal party was driving away in sports cars! Each couple had their own to ride in. Pontiac Trans Am's have always been a favorite of mine. So, I was elated when I got to ride in this! Just for the record... they are really fast! 
There were several old buildings on the homestead that we took pictures against. This one of all of the bridesmaids with Amanda is one of my favorites. 
I also thought this picture of the guys with the cars parked like this was neat especially with the mountains in the distance.
Wedding Part 1
This past weekend I was a bridesmaid in my friend Amanda's wedding in Pennsylvania. It was a blast! I admit I was nervous about the dress and everything but it all worked out. Mom did some last minute adjustments that helped (thanks Mom) and everything went well. This first picture is me with Amanda's sisters, Tina and Heidi at the salon waiting for our hair to be done. 
Makeup! I never wear makeup! 
Last minute preparations! 
Amanda and I right before going into hiding before the wedding. Stay tuned for more wedding pics in the next post.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)