Most of you know that my son Dietrich has had a rough summer. He has had surgery, stung by jellyfish at least twice, was bitten by close to 200 seed ticks (we counted them), then had 6 teeth pulled, and this week has been home from school for a week with a serious sinus infection and fever. Dietrich has had it rough. Pray for him!
Then this week has been a busy week with several meetings for me in the evenings. it's been one of the weeks when i say hi and bye to the family and roll on. You have weeks like that now and then.
it can wear on you mentally a little bit. That's why I was thankful for the finance seminar tonight. We looked at Romans 8:28 where God says he works together all things for good for thos who love him. I know I love God and I know he loves me (He went first) so i know things are working for good. God doesn't get tired so he is my refreshment and my source of strength. What a great verse of scripture!
I'm also preparing for the Simple Church Seminar on Saturday and God is really impressing me onthe power of systems. a system is how an organization gets things done. For example, McDonald's has a system on delivering you a hamburger. GM has a system for building a car. Your body has a system for walking, breathing, and battling viruses.
The church has a system and like a body it has several systems. I'm just learning about all of this and it really is amazing. I think the knowledge about systems will help our church grow farther.
Every church, I have learned, has eight primary systems of getting things accomplished. Each one needs attention to furtehr the church. I'll expand on those systems in upcoming blogs. It really is exciting.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
I'm excited about our church
I'm excited becasue I see so many people excited, even passionate about ministry. It's really exciting to see so many people involved in seeing the Gospel of Jesus Christ expanded. Last year at this time we were setting up 80 chairs. Now we are setting up 149! I believe we've practically doubled the amouont of people involved in some type of minisry inside and outside of the church. Last year we din't have a strong presence in the community. This year we have an incredible presence. Last year we had 2 elders. This year we 4 elders (Was 5 but Paul is moving to TX), 2 Deacons, and 10 ministry teams. It is out of this world exciting. God is blessing us in mighty ways.
The most exciting number is baptisms. We have seen several people come to Jesus as thier personal Lord and Savior.
May God continue to bless us.
We have challenges too. Children's and Youth minstries are overcrowded. They need space! We need a permanent place to worship. More people need to get involved in Life Groups and Service. We need to see the prayer level go up in our church.
I believe though, as we follow God, that all these challenges will be met with God's grace.
God Bless!
Kirk
The most exciting number is baptisms. We have seen several people come to Jesus as thier personal Lord and Savior.
May God continue to bless us.
We have challenges too. Children's and Youth minstries are overcrowded. They need space! We need a permanent place to worship. More people need to get involved in Life Groups and Service. We need to see the prayer level go up in our church.
I believe though, as we follow God, that all these challenges will be met with God's grace.
God Bless!
Kirk
No Country for Us Men (and Women)
I went to the men's Small Group Wednesday night and had a great time. It's good to get with other guys. In the midst of this study we looked at Hebrews 11, the great hero chapter of the Bible.
In the midst of the study I read these verses and they really stood out to me. It's Hebrews 11:13-15. "Heb 11:13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. Heb 11:14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. Heb 11:15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Heb 11:16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." (NIV)
All these heroes mentioned did not see the promise God gave them come true in thier lifetime. It says they only saw them at a distance. In other words they had a clear vision in their mind of what God promised, but they never saw the reality of that.
The promise God gave them would not come true on earth, in this country, but a country they belong to not on this earth. Thet were longing for the country to come called heaven.
For me that means there is no country on earth for me. The country I long for, I desire for, I want for my children, is not the US, or any oher nation past, present, or future. The country I belong to is still to come and I can see it from a distance.
I long for that country called heaven, and God is building a city in that country that defies description. The country is challenging to live in, but it has complete peace. No more shots. perfect health. No robberies or sex predators. I won't have to worry about being harmed or deal with heartache. He land i see is still in the distence, but i know I'm gettting closer everyday.
What a great scripture!
Kirk
In the midst of the study I read these verses and they really stood out to me. It's Hebrews 11:13-15. "Heb 11:13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. Heb 11:14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. Heb 11:15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Heb 11:16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." (NIV)
All these heroes mentioned did not see the promise God gave them come true in thier lifetime. It says they only saw them at a distance. In other words they had a clear vision in their mind of what God promised, but they never saw the reality of that.
The promise God gave them would not come true on earth, in this country, but a country they belong to not on this earth. Thet were longing for the country to come called heaven.
For me that means there is no country on earth for me. The country I long for, I desire for, I want for my children, is not the US, or any oher nation past, present, or future. The country I belong to is still to come and I can see it from a distance.
I long for that country called heaven, and God is building a city in that country that defies description. The country is challenging to live in, but it has complete peace. No more shots. perfect health. No robberies or sex predators. I won't have to worry about being harmed or deal with heartache. He land i see is still in the distence, but i know I'm gettting closer everyday.
What a great scripture!
Kirk
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hello!
What a crazy week! it's been very busy this week for me, but a good week.
Tuesday I went to the VEF board meeting. I am now serving as one of the directors. In case you don't know VEF (Virginia Evangelizing Fellowship) planted our church here a little over 6 years ago. VEF is involved in helping ChristianChurch preachers across the state, planting new churches (In fact 3 are being planted in VA this fall), and helping churches that are already existing. VEF is all about "pursuing kingdom growth." Our church supports VEF and through our support we are helping churches be planted all across the state of Virginia.
After I the meeting I came away with some lessons, ideas, or something like that. First, I noticed that I lacked a lot of perspective at how awesome and active the Kingdom of God is (sorry about the prep). We are not alone! We can get so caught up in our little concerns that we forget that we are part of the giant plan of God. Secondly, I came away humbled by these men on the board. Not all of them are preachers. Many are businessman. All seek to pursue kingdom growth. Thirdly, I get to participate. I wasn't treated like the new guy. They wanted to know what I was thinking. They found out real quickly not much! I was honored by theior attitude.
What does that mean for you? You are not alone. You are par of a bigger plan that has been going on for generations. God is bringing all people together.
Awesome! It's neat to see that all over the state.
Chat at cha later... Kirk
Tuesday I went to the VEF board meeting. I am now serving as one of the directors. In case you don't know VEF (Virginia Evangelizing Fellowship) planted our church here a little over 6 years ago. VEF is involved in helping ChristianChurch preachers across the state, planting new churches (In fact 3 are being planted in VA this fall), and helping churches that are already existing. VEF is all about "pursuing kingdom growth." Our church supports VEF and through our support we are helping churches be planted all across the state of Virginia.
After I the meeting I came away with some lessons, ideas, or something like that. First, I noticed that I lacked a lot of perspective at how awesome and active the Kingdom of God is (sorry about the prep). We are not alone! We can get so caught up in our little concerns that we forget that we are part of the giant plan of God. Secondly, I came away humbled by these men on the board. Not all of them are preachers. Many are businessman. All seek to pursue kingdom growth. Thirdly, I get to participate. I wasn't treated like the new guy. They wanted to know what I was thinking. They found out real quickly not much! I was honored by theior attitude.
What does that mean for you? You are not alone. You are par of a bigger plan that has been going on for generations. God is bringing all people together.
Awesome! It's neat to see that all over the state.
Chat at cha later... Kirk
Friday, August 29, 2008
God's Angle on Alcohol
INTRODUCTION
Alcohol has always seemed to be a controversial subject in the church. Some say it's okay to drink while many churches condemn any kind of drinking. Most though, don't care about the controversy.if they want to have a drink they have a drink.
Drinking is a huge part of our culture and it's something Christian and non-Christian alike need to look at seriously. Why? Alcohol has the potential to cause a lot of pain and hardship in one's life. Like fire, it needs to be handled properly.
God has some ideas about drinking alcohol. That's what this message and discussion are about.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Read Genesis 9:18-27. Drinking alcohol led to Noah being is a state of disgrace. This eventually led to an entire generation of people being condemned by God. How do you see in our culture alcohol's negative consequences?
2. Read Proverbs 31:4-7. Why are leaders held to a higher standard than other people?
3. In this culture they used alcohol for medicine. It was used as a sedative. What does this say about our reasons for drinking today?
4. Read Ephesians 5:18. What is debauchery? Why would Paul associate alcohol with this subject?
5. What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? How does that feel? How do you do it?
6. Where should our focus be? How much I can drink or how much I can be filled with the Spirit? Why is it important to make a distinction between the two?
THINK ABOUT IT
Does alcohol consumption help you draw closer to God? Why or why not?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." Ephesians 5:18
Alcohol has always seemed to be a controversial subject in the church. Some say it's okay to drink while many churches condemn any kind of drinking. Most though, don't care about the controversy.if they want to have a drink they have a drink.
Drinking is a huge part of our culture and it's something Christian and non-Christian alike need to look at seriously. Why? Alcohol has the potential to cause a lot of pain and hardship in one's life. Like fire, it needs to be handled properly.
God has some ideas about drinking alcohol. That's what this message and discussion are about.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Read Genesis 9:18-27. Drinking alcohol led to Noah being is a state of disgrace. This eventually led to an entire generation of people being condemned by God. How do you see in our culture alcohol's negative consequences?
2. Read Proverbs 31:4-7. Why are leaders held to a higher standard than other people?
3. In this culture they used alcohol for medicine. It was used as a sedative. What does this say about our reasons for drinking today?
4. Read Ephesians 5:18. What is debauchery? Why would Paul associate alcohol with this subject?
5. What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? How does that feel? How do you do it?
6. Where should our focus be? How much I can drink or how much I can be filled with the Spirit? Why is it important to make a distinction between the two?
THINK ABOUT IT
Does alcohol consumption help you draw closer to God? Why or why not?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." Ephesians 5:18
Friday, August 15, 2008
God's Angle on Cussing
INTRODUCTION
George Carlin, a comedian who died recently, was widely known for a bit he did called, "Seven Words You can't Say on Television." Believe it or not, there are people paid by the networks to moniter the language that is used on television.
What most people don't realize is there is no such taboo list of words in the Bible. What you do find are genral warnings about the use of language. Consider Ephesians 4:29, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (NIV)
This message primarily concentrated on what james wrote about our language in James 3:2-12. Our discussion will focus on these verses.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Why does James consider taming the tongue such a hard feat to accomplish?
2. James uses 6 illustrations (a bit, a rudder, spark, organs, animals, and water) to make his point about the use of our language. Of the six pictures explain which one stands out to you the most.
3. In the illustrations on the bit, the rudder, and spark James contrasts the smallness of the object controlling something very large. How can words we consider small or incidental control something much larger, like a marriage, parenting, at work?
4. The last three illustrations point out how inconsistent our words can be with our intentions. We think we have a good heart but harsh words can come out of our mouths. Why are we so comfortable with this hypocrisy?
5. Paul says to replace our nasty language with words that build each other up. What are some words that build others up? How can you practice saying these words?
6. In chapter 1 James says we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. How can these three habits improve our language?
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
How does language used in the media (music, movies, internet, etc.) impact the way you use language?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
Jas 3:2 "We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. " (NIV)
George Carlin, a comedian who died recently, was widely known for a bit he did called, "Seven Words You can't Say on Television." Believe it or not, there are people paid by the networks to moniter the language that is used on television.
What most people don't realize is there is no such taboo list of words in the Bible. What you do find are genral warnings about the use of language. Consider Ephesians 4:29, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (NIV)
This message primarily concentrated on what james wrote about our language in James 3:2-12. Our discussion will focus on these verses.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Why does James consider taming the tongue such a hard feat to accomplish?
2. James uses 6 illustrations (a bit, a rudder, spark, organs, animals, and water) to make his point about the use of our language. Of the six pictures explain which one stands out to you the most.
3. In the illustrations on the bit, the rudder, and spark James contrasts the smallness of the object controlling something very large. How can words we consider small or incidental control something much larger, like a marriage, parenting, at work?
4. The last three illustrations point out how inconsistent our words can be with our intentions. We think we have a good heart but harsh words can come out of our mouths. Why are we so comfortable with this hypocrisy?
5. Paul says to replace our nasty language with words that build each other up. What are some words that build others up? How can you practice saying these words?
6. In chapter 1 James says we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. How can these three habits improve our language?
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
How does language used in the media (music, movies, internet, etc.) impact the way you use language?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
Jas 3:2 "We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. " (NIV)
Friday, August 8, 2008
God's Angle on Money
INTRODUCTION
In photography the angle of the picture is critical in making a good picture or a bad one. The same is true with the issues we face in life. The angle we take on those issues can make all the difference between happiness and pain. We have our own angle on politics, sex, marriage, language, and alcohol. It can seem in our culture we can choose any angle we seem fit. In fact, we change our angle on certain issues depending on the situation we're facing.
Well, if we can have our angle God can have his angle too. The neat thing about God's angle on issues is sees the whole picture, while we just see just the puzzle peice. From his angle God sees all and knows all. With this truth in mind this series looks at God's angle on some straight topics.
This lesson looks at God's angle on money. It seems our angle is first we spend it, then save it if we have any left over, and then if we're lucky we'll have a few pennies left to be generous with others. Is that God's angle?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
God's angle on money is we tithe 10% first, save 10%, and then spend 80% wisely.
1. Tithe 10% (Genesis 14:20)
A. Read Malachi 3:10. God says test me in the tithe and see if I don't bless you. Why is this hard for us to believe?
B. What are some of the blessings God gives when we are faithful in our tithing?
2. Save 10% (Proverbs 13:11)
A. What is your plan for saving a little by little over a long period of time?
B. Saving means we put off what we can buy today for a better tommorow. Why is this discipline so hard?
C. What savings goal do you have?
3. Spend 80% wisely. (Proverbs 21:5)
A. Do you know where your money is going? If not, how can you get a handle on understanding where your money is going? (You can start by knowing how much you actually make.)
B. If you make over $32,000 you are considered extremely rich by world's standards. So why don't you feel rich?
C. What plan are you using to reduce your debt? "Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you." PR 22:26-27 (NIV) How is this scripture true in our culture?
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Does the way you handle your money demonstrate that you honor God first in your life?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
“Why spend money on what does not satisfy?” Isa. 55:2 (NIV)
“If I have put my trust in money, if my happiness depends on wealth... it would mean that I denied the God of heaven.” Job 31:24,28 (LB)
In photography the angle of the picture is critical in making a good picture or a bad one. The same is true with the issues we face in life. The angle we take on those issues can make all the difference between happiness and pain. We have our own angle on politics, sex, marriage, language, and alcohol. It can seem in our culture we can choose any angle we seem fit. In fact, we change our angle on certain issues depending on the situation we're facing.
Well, if we can have our angle God can have his angle too. The neat thing about God's angle on issues is sees the whole picture, while we just see just the puzzle peice. From his angle God sees all and knows all. With this truth in mind this series looks at God's angle on some straight topics.
This lesson looks at God's angle on money. It seems our angle is first we spend it, then save it if we have any left over, and then if we're lucky we'll have a few pennies left to be generous with others. Is that God's angle?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
God's angle on money is we tithe 10% first, save 10%, and then spend 80% wisely.
1. Tithe 10% (Genesis 14:20)
A. Read Malachi 3:10. God says test me in the tithe and see if I don't bless you. Why is this hard for us to believe?
B. What are some of the blessings God gives when we are faithful in our tithing?
2. Save 10% (Proverbs 13:11)
A. What is your plan for saving a little by little over a long period of time?
B. Saving means we put off what we can buy today for a better tommorow. Why is this discipline so hard?
C. What savings goal do you have?
3. Spend 80% wisely. (Proverbs 21:5)
A. Do you know where your money is going? If not, how can you get a handle on understanding where your money is going? (You can start by knowing how much you actually make.)
B. If you make over $32,000 you are considered extremely rich by world's standards. So why don't you feel rich?
C. What plan are you using to reduce your debt? "Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you." PR 22:26-27 (NIV) How is this scripture true in our culture?
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Does the way you handle your money demonstrate that you honor God first in your life?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
“Why spend money on what does not satisfy?” Isa. 55:2 (NIV)
“If I have put my trust in money, if my happiness depends on wealth... it would mean that I denied the God of heaven.” Job 31:24,28 (LB)
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