preacherman

Willing To Speak At Your Congregation

2009-07-18T11:48:00.003-04:00

I am currently taking a sabbatical from full time ministry but love to teach, preach and encourage all believers with God's word. I am desiring and feel God calling me to proclaim his grace and personal power to all believers. I would love to come and speak at your congregation for a revival, friends Sunday, peak of the week, or any Sunday that you would like. I powerfully and enthusiastically preach the Bible with life application. I believe that it is so important to make the word of God come alive and apply it to everyday life. If you would like for me to speak at your church you can contact me here, at kinney.mabry@gmal.com, or at
830-377-6592.

Thank you and God bless.

Are We Living In The Last Days?

2009-07-10T20:24:00.003-04:00

I was wondering lately with all the sin and tolerance in the world if we aren't indeed living in the end times? If you look at 2 Timothy 3 Paul says, "But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastfrul, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, lovers of pleasure instead of lovers of God-having a form of godliness but denying it's power."

So, what do you think? Does this sound like the world today? Are we living in the last days? Jesus gives us signs in the gospels (see Matthew 24;Mark 13:24-31; Luke 21;25-33; Mark 13:32-37; Luke 21:34-38). So what do you think about this? What should we do? How should be live? If we are living in the last days should it affect the direction of the church and believers? How?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Enjoying LIfe

2009-06-23T20:11:00.002-04:00

James mentions in his letter that our lives are but a vapor; here today and gone tomorrow. I am 34 years old and it seems like life has flown by so fast. I have settle in my own mind and life to enjoy and cherish every moment that I can. I want to enjoy life. Yes, I know that there will be storms but I am going to strive cherish and enjoy every moment of life that I possibly can as a father, husband, and believer.

So, do you think life is short? Has the years gone by fast for you? How do we cherish every moment of life? How do we enjoy the life we have despite the storms? Do we enjoy the todays? What robs us of our joy in life? If we have lost the joy how do we get it back?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Persecution

2009-06-16T21:20:00.004-04:00

Have you experienced persecution from those who claim to be "Christians" or those of the "World" or "Neither"?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Things Kids Say

2009-06-09T15:33:00.007-04:00

My mom and the grandsons were driving to Vacation Bible School when my middle son Collin said, "I see heaven." Riley my nephew sreamed with hands over his face, "Hi God. Hi Jesus. I love you guys so much!"

When playing at the playground at the Mall of Abilene my middle son Collin told Pop that He was as old as God. I guess 60 in the eyes of a child is as old as God..LOL!

When the boys were looking at the clouds my oldest son Ethan said, "I see Mario!" Quinn the youngest said, "I see a bird." Granny said she saw a turtle. My middle son Collin said, "I see Pop!"

My son Ethan wasn't dunking his brothers in the pool, he told us that he wasn't dunking them he was baptizing them.

What stories do you have about your kids or grandkids. Please share some funny stories with us. I believe that innocence and humor is helpful to the soul.

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Letting Go

2009-06-09T11:17:00.005-04:00

Letting go of the past is hard to do but the past can keep us as believers from moving forward. The past is one of Satan's favorite weapons. We all make mistakes but we can't change the past. I know many people who live in the past and dwell on past mistakes. I know believers who have said, "I've made so many mistakes that God will never forgive me." Others say, "If you knew the mistakes I've made in the past you'd never want me to do this service or ministry from God." We all fail. We all make mistakes but living in the past hinders our faith and a healthy relationship with God and Christ.

Listen to what the Message translation says in Philippians 3:12-ff: "I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wonderously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward - to Jesus. I'm off and running and I'm not turning back.
So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision- you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, lets stay on it.
Stick with me friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to get you to go along with them. I've warned you of them many times; sad, I'm having to do it again. All they want is the easy street. They hate Christ's cross. But easy street is a dead end street. Those who live there make their bellies their gods; belches are their praise; all they can think of is their appetites.
But there's far more to life for us. We're citizens of high heaven! We're waiting the arrival of the Savior, the Mast, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthy bodies into glorious bodies of His own. He'll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around Him."

Paul mentions that he is off and running and he's not looking back. Paul could have stopped running if looking back he would have allowed Satan to get him to only live in the past.
So many things could in his past could have caused his faith to shatter. Paul could have been the prime example of what to avoid as a Christian yet Paul let go of the past mistakes and pressed on toward Christ and heaven. What a powerful testimony to us all!

The questions I want us to discuss are: Why does Satan use past as a powerful weapon? What happens to Christians if they live in the past? What happens to our faith if we get caught up in the past? Can churches get caught up in the past? What happens to churches when they do? Have you known a Christian who gave up because of past mistakes or living in the past? How do we let go of the past? How do we fix our eye on Jesus and reach toward Christ? What has helped you live for the moment and future?

Are You Sure?

2009-06-05T20:05:00.004-04:00

As a youth minister I remember being at camp and asking a group of 150 teens, "those of you who are Christians, if you were to go to meet God tonight, if he was to return, do you think you would go to heaven? How many of you could say you would be saved?" Only about 5 teens of the group raised their hands. I asked this question at youth rallies, youth devotionals, and meeting all over the country and still had very few respond that they would know that they were saved. Why? Self-esteem perhaps? Doctrinal teachings of their churches? Maybe. Both?

I stressed that Jesus Christ wants us as believers to know that we are saved. How are we to make other believe if we ourselves don't? Listen to the words in Romans, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to seperate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." I love the words of John as well, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may KNOW that you have and eternal life." (1 John 5:13; NIV).

I hope that we will bring up believers that will know that they have eternal life. I hope that we can be confident in our salvation and relationship with Jesus Christ.

So the questions I have are: Why do some doubt their salvation? How does this doubt affect the relationship we have with Jesus Christ? How does this doubt affect our influence on the world? Should we have this confindence? Why is having confidence in our salvation so important? Have you doubted? Why? Is it self-esteem? Doctional teachings? What can we do to change what is being taught? How can we help other believers have confidence in knowing that they have eternal life?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts?

God Works In Mysterious Ways

2009-05-27T15:27:00.004-04:00

I know it sounds cliche' but isn't true?!?? As most of you know I have been suffering from extreme migraines and neuropathy pain. As I mentioned in previous posts I am trying alternative medicine to find healing.

Well, this past week I tried hypnotherapy and have been migraine free for 7 days. I have been extremely relaxed and have found comfort as well. I am also trying yoga, meditation and exercise.

I find it amazing how God works in our lives day in and day out especially during the tough situations in life. I praise God for working in my life the way He has recently. God is so good!!!

Please pray that it continues.

I want us to discuss the following questions: How have you seen God work in Mysterious ways? How has God working in mysterious ways in your life effected your life? How have you been blessed through His working? Do we as Christians consider alternative medicine? Why or why not? How has alternative medicine helped in your life? What is your story?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Never Let It Die

2009-05-18T11:18:00.007-04:00

Over the last two and half years I have struggled with depression. I delt with it in many damaging ways. I am now thankful that I have a great neurologist who knows what he is doing and alternative meditations and hypnosis will also be helpful. I have been moved by the powerfer message of a musician and artist that struggled with his own demons of deep depression. Jamey Jasta of the rock group Hatebreed tells of his battle on their album Supremacy.
Jasta states, "I believe that we all hav e a spark inside us that over time and though knowledge and experence can be ignited into something massive. It's a simple concept. Fan a flame adn the embers will burn into a huge fire. Throw cold water on it and it is extingushed. Never let anyone extinguish the spark inside youum. It may sound cliche' or cheesy but believe that what you have on the inside is more than you will ever know. " The song that follows tells of how we should never let that spark or power within us die. It is powerful.

Never Let It Die

The flame was almost extinguished
the will had faded and escaped me
Two years had passed and they wilted away
All that was left were memories of day I never lived

Now the fight is on, until there's nothing left
I'll fight like never before
The fight is on, until my final breath
I've never wanted anything more.

I must never let it die

Bonds are strengthened when they've been tested
and mended when they've been torn
so give all of yourself that there is to give
cause in life to have never risked is to have never lived
so give all of yourself that there is to give
cause in life to have never risked is to have never lived
Now the fight is on, until there is nothing left
I'll fight like never before
The fight is on, until my final breath
I'll never wanted anything more

I must never let it die

So resolve, seassure and push on with out fear
Ignight the flame, because only you govern what tomorrow holds
it's inside us all wait to be awoken
It is more than words described
That is the spark, let it burn, makit build
It will never be denied

Becuase the fight is on, untilt here's nothing left
I'll fight like never before
The fight is on, until my final breath
I've never wanted anything more

I must never let die,
We will let it die, NEVER
by Hatebreed

I am resolved to overcome my fight with depression and pain that I have been faced with in my life. I am going to fight to be the best husband, father, brother and believer that I can. I am going to fight until there is nothing left to overcome all the things that have harmed my relationships and hindered my faith. I am going to fight til my final breath to be the best friend that I can be with Christ God.

What are you willing to fight for? What do you want to overcome? What are you faced with in your life that has kept you from being the person you can become? How can we fan the flame within us to make the difference we want? What do you think about you having the power to handle your life the way you want in making a difference that is so huge? What will you never let die?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Is Suicide The Unforgivable Sin???

2009-05-14T17:16:00.007-04:00

As I have been in ministry and done many funerals the question that comes up concerning a suicide is, "Is my loved one saved and are they in heaven?" Well, dealing with depression myself have had these questions sloshing around in my head. As mentioned in previous posts , I have been in severe pain for some time. I have thought to myself wouldn't it be good if I could just die and be in heaven where there is no sorrow or PAIN. The thing has that kept me from going through with the act is my family and the question of where does one go if the attempt is successful. Yes, I have been on anti-depressants. I have been on many and have finally found the anti-depressants that are working. I think it is totally okay and normal for Christians to be on these drugs. I think there are many preachers and Christians that think you have to be joyous and happy all the time and make real people feel guilty about the way they feel and meds that they are on. So, if you are on anti-depressants, know that you can be a believer and be on these drugs.

I know this subject is very sensitive, yet I want your true answers to the questions you choose to respond to as well. The questions:

Is suicide self-murder? If confession cannot be made after the act, then where does the soul go? Is there such a thing as pre-confession? Is the unforgivable sin suicide? Is there any sin that Jesus won't forgive? Is God's Grace big enough and cover even suicide? What does the Bible say about the "Unforgivable sin?" Does the Bible say it is unforgivable? What feelings does the act of suicide bring on loved ones? What are some signs of someone who might commit suicide? Does the act of suicide give loved ones hell on earth as they have feelings of guilt, blame, loss, sadness, depression, and even questions such as these and on and on? Have you ever had these thoughts? How have anti-depressants helped your life? Does it make you mad when preacher make believers feel guilty who are on these drug and can it drive a person to the act of suicide?

What do you think?
Share Your Thoughts.

A Loving God Would Never.......

2009-05-08T11:03:00.001-04:00

You may have heard people say, "a loving God would never send someone to hell." Well, how would you respond to a friend, family member or someone who has made this statement? Do you believe this yourself?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

I Am So Proud of My Wife

2009-05-08T10:50:00.004-04:00

The first post today is to let my wife know just how proud I am of her. She graduated in December 2008 but this weekend is doing the formal ceremonial walk with cap and gown. The reason she is doing it is for her mom and dad but I am also glad she is doing it so the boys an see the accomplishment that their mother achieved. The next step is studying for her CPA exam. She is a wonderful loving mother and spouse, as well as b eing extremely focused in achieving success in her profession. Words cannot express how much the boys and I love and appreciate all you do for our family. I hope and pray she has a wonderful weekend that she will never forget. I also want all the other mothers, including mine that we thank you for all you have done and continue to do. We would not be who we are without you!

How did your mom help shape and make you what you are today? Is there a tradition that your family does during mothers day? If so, what is it? Is there traditions at your church that is done during mothers day to honor them? If so, what is it? Should the churches recognize mothers on mothers day? If so why? If not, why not? Mothers, what do you do on mothers day? Do your husbands and children treat you different? If your mother has passed on do you remember who she was and what she did for you? Can it be hard for those who have lost their mothers? Do you tell your mother how much you love and appreciate them other than mothers day? How can you do so?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

God Does Answer Prayers!

2009-04-24T10:27:00.009-04:00

All of the prayers that were lifted up on my behalf have paid off. I had my appointment with my neurologist yesterday and told my wife and I that all of the test came back completely normal. He told us that thinks I am suffering from chronic pain. He told us that my body doesn't know what it's like not to hurt and that we need to help the brain unwind. The neurologist is going to try to treat my problems with new medications. I'm going to see how it goes for a month before we take other actions. I'm also going to try natural alternatives such as exercise, yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and change in diet which all might help with the pain.

My family and I are thankful to God about the test results. We were happy that they didn't find anything on the tests and that all was normal. We serve a Faithful God who has been an attentive Father to me and who heals in his own appointed way. I continue to put my trust in a God who knows what is best for me. I rejoice in knowing that my true complete healing will come when he says to me " Enter into the Joy of the Lord" ! A thankfulness and comfort that I can't explain in words. So, I wait eagerly upon the Lord.

I personally am going to strive to change my behavior, attitude, and outlook on life. I know that the severe pain has caused me to hurt the ones I love and to have a negative state of mind as well. I am glad that God has given me the opportunity to change. I as a believer, husband, father, and brother I'm going to take life one day at a time and to cherish each day as it might be my last; enjoying life and being a blessing to my family and friends.

Once again, my family is extremely thankful for all of you who have offered up prayers for us during these difficult times.

Consider maybe these questions for discussion:

How does it make you feel that we have a Heavenly Father who hears our prayers? Does he always answer the way we want? If so, how? If not, why not? When God does answer our prayers how should our heart be? What happens to our lives when we turn our pain, frustrations, and trials over to Him? How have you experienced the comfort of God that comes through prayer? We each have our own stories or testimonies about how God has answered prayers in our lives; what is yours? If you have had chronic pain what worked for you?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

When Was Your Last Dr's Appointment?

2009-04-14T09:13:00.015-04:00

I want to thank everyone for your prayers, words of encouragement while the many Dr's are trying to figure out my neurological problems. I should know something in ten days as I visit with the Dr concerning all of the tests and what they mean and where to go forward. I graciously ask that you keep my wife and I in your prayers as it is stressful dealing with the pain and emotions that I go through on a daily basis. Please continue to pray for healing physically, emotionally and spiritually. I also ask prayers for my mother-in-law who just had sugery on her foot. My wife is under alot of stress with working, taking care of the boys, my illness and her mother surgery, so please keep her in your prayers as well.

There are many times because of my health that I am unable to attend church or worship services as this past Easter Sunday. I do find that reading scripture and daily devotion has helped and can help ones spiritual journey. How often do we spend in the word and in prayer on a daily basis? I am trying to re-prioritize my life as I face these hardships. I want to be a better husband, father, believer, and scholar of the Word. I don't just want to know about Jesus Christ, I want to know Jesus Christ and let him be lived out through me in every aspect of my life. I want my Christianity to be real. I want to get rid of and repent of things that have hurt the ones I love the most. I want to completely die to self and live for Christ. As Paul mentioned, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain the resurrection from the dead." (Philippians 3:10) I thank God for second chances. No, not just second chances but countless chances to start new and fresh. I right now am seeing many doctors for many problems physically but I am going to let Jesus Christ be my "great physician" for my spiritual health (I know as well the "great physician"has the power to heal me physically but I want Him to be the physician of my soul most of all).

This morning while in prayer and deep consultation with the "great physician" I went through a complete spiritual check-up and physical. It had been a very long time since my last visit.

First "the great physician" Dr. Jesus, wanted to look at my heart because it is the part of the body that pumps the blood of life or death. As the physician looked and listened to my heart the words of David flowed from my tongue, "Create in me a pure heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me." As I said those words my heart pumped with joy, love, and warmth. As I stated a promise that I had never said to another physician and that was: "I love you with all my heart, soul, strength and mind and I promise to you to love my neighbor as myself." As I made that convenant with the physician he smiled greatly going on to my head to take a look. He saw depression, thoughts of suicide, lust, revenge, anger and then the "great physician" told me "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praise worthy think on these things."(Phil.4:8)

He then told me to open my mouth, stick out my tongue and say ah. He told me, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth comes praise and cursing, this should not be." (James 3:9-10), "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt." (Col 4:6)

He looked in my ears and said, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes in Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from life to death." (John 5:24) As the exam went on He shined a bright light in my eyes and said, Kinney I can't believe this but you have a big plank in your eye! Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brothers eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye! How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye," when you all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brothers eye." (Matt.7:3-5) Jesus then looked at my legs, tested my reflexes and spoke sharply saying, "Walk in the light!"(1John1) "Keep in step with the Spirit!"(Gal. 5:25) Kinney, "If you want to come after me, you must deny yourself and take up your cross and follow me!" (Mark 8:34)

After the exam, "the great physician" gave me some further instructions on how to live and stay healthy. He told me to listen up and listen up closely, "The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all of your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your heart, impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."(Duet. 6:5-7) "Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and seccessful." (Joshua 1:8) As the consultation continued He stressed to me the importance of prayer, fasting, meditation, and cherishing the gift of grace and salvation (Rom 6). He reminded me of the commitment that I made to my wife and how important love and marriage is to God. Jesus words told me to treat her with love and respect as I love and respect Him. As He told me this tears flowed down my eyes as I remembered how many times I had hurt her and let her down. The doctor assured me of the love that God has for me and that it was possible to be a strong, faithful leader as a husband and father. (Eph. 5:22-6:4). Stressed that it was important to not let anyone look down on my because of my youth but to set an example for all believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.(1 Tim 4:12).

After Jesus had finished he told me he wanted a follow up daily.
I committed to everything he had told me by saying to him that I loved Him more than life itself.
It was the best visit with a doctor that I had ever had in my life.
I will never be the same.

I am thankful for all the great physicians that God had brought into my life but I am most thankful for the greatest physician of all, Jesus Christ!

Question for discussion:

Is it important for us to see the "great physician"? Why is it important for us to see the "great physician"? What happens when we see the "great physician"? How often should we visit? Is the doctor going to tell us the same thing every time we visit? How have you been touched and changed by visiting and consulting the "great physician", Jesus Christ? Why are people afraid of the "great physcian? Does the "great physician" ever give shots? Do the appointments sometimes hurt? Why How can we find comfort from consulting the "great physician"? When was the last time you visited the "great physicain"? Are you afraid? If so, why?

Why not make an appointment today?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts?

Where Did Evil Come From???

2009-04-03T12:29:00.007-04:00

I again want to start off by saying that I appreciate everyone for their prayers. I had an MRI and EEG this week. Easter weekend I will be having a 72 hour EEG.

I still have not heard back from any of the doctors on any of the reports yet. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. I again want to thank you for prayers, encouragement, and patience during this difficult time in our lives.

Yes, I have quite a few questions. First, I want to How do you define evil? Where did evil come from? Did God create it? Is it part of His characteristics? If God is loving, pure, righteous and holy, where did evil come? Does evil contradict what they Bible says about God? What does it say about God if he did create evil and that it is one of His characteristics?

How does God view evilness? How does the church view evilness? How does the world view evilness? How should believers respond to evilness? Do we try to ignore it or water down evilness? If so how and why? Can a Christian be evil and be saved? If so, how and why; if not why? Is there really eternal consequences for evilness or is it a myth? How should preachers, ministers, teachers approach the subject of evilness? Is preaching about hell the right way or is preaching grace the right way? Should there be a balance? If so why? Why are many teachers and ministers afraid to speak on evilness?

What do you think?

What do you think?

Share your thoughts.

Happy Birthday Tess

2009-04-03T12:22:00.003-04:00

I want to wish my wife a wonderful happy birthday this coming Saturday. I always have been told by my mom and others that you don't tell the age of a woman. Why? I think I will anyway, not! :-) I am so grateful that God created her because she is my soul mate. She was meant for me and is a true blessing to me, my family and others. Happy Birthday Sweetie. I love you more than life itself and pray for this year to be the best ever.

Share your birthday wishes.

Back In The Saddle Again

2009-03-25T12:23:00.004-04:00

I'm back in the saddle again (so to speak)as far as teaching and blogging on occasions. I want to thank all of my readers for their prayers and support. You have been a true blessing and encouragement to my family as I face these trying times. We are leaning on God and thankful for the outstanding doctors taking care of me. I want to thank all of you for your patience and prayers over the next couple of months.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, we placed membership at Kerrville Church of Christ. We have been blessed by the prayers, encouragement, and worship experiences that the elders and ministry staff have demonstrated to our family.

Tonight, I am filling in for Dr. Cummings. I will be teaching on Mark 12:41-43 about the woman who gave her all (also known as the woman with the 2 Minas). It is a lesson which many think of as a parable, but rather than being taught in Jesus' voice, we see a situation through his eyes.

Mark starts this passage by explaining that Jesus and his disciples were at the temple. Jesus watches from a distance, those who were giving money to God. As he observes the givers, a woman stands out to Jesus.
She is a poor widow who gives two silver coins. As Jesus looks at the what is going on, he calls his disciples together and gives them an object lesson. Jesus stresses that these rich people are giving out of what they have, but the poor widow gives her all. The points of discussion for this post and class tonight are:

In what ways did Jesus teach?
What does Jesus see in the story?
How does his view differ from ours?
What is the world's view of giving
What is the church's view of giving?
How should our view be as believers?
In what ways do we give God our all? Are there other ways than monetary giving?
How does Jesus sees us through his eyes?
If Jesus was speaking about us, what would our story be?
What des "real giving" feel like and look like?
What do you think?

Share your thoughts.

I Am In Need Of More Prayers

2009-03-13T12:27:00.004-04:00

I believe strongly in the power of prayer. I am requesting you to pray for me. If you would like to add me to your churches prayer list, I would appreciate that as well.

As most of you know, I was diagnosed with GBS (Guillain-Barre' Syndrome) 2 and a half years ago and have been trying to recover from it ever since. I struggle with constant pain every day.

The neuropathy is getting worse. I swell up in my legs and feet at night. As you may remember, in June, I was diagnosed with Barrett's Esophagus. I also suffer with chronic migraines about 15 or so days out of most months.

This past week I start thowing up blood, so I am scheduled for an EGD on Monday. I had an appointment with my neurologist yesterday where I told him about how my migraines have moved from the front my head to the back of my head. I mentioned that I have been having memory loss as well as time lapses. I have gone to bed with a migraine and woke up four days later still thinking it was the next day. I have been experiencing blackouts and slurred speech. Simple tasks of such as writting checks are hard to do and other symptoms are occuring.

The neurologist did test in his office were he determined that there was something going on with my brain. He thought there might be a protien build up in my spine and brain. He believes that I have fluild pressing on my brain, so I will be doing a series of tests. The first test will be an MRI of my brain, an EEG done at the office and a 72 hour EEG done at home. I may have a spinal tap done in the office after the EEGs have been done as well.

I know that God is good and always provides.

I am asking for your prayers, encouragment and understanding during during this the next two months. If you would like to leave a word of encouragement or prayer you are welcome to do so.
I love and apprecaite all of your thoughts and comments on this blog. You do help bring some joy to my life.

If you could also leave a word and prayer for my wife she is such a support and stroghold in my life. She needs prayers as she works and takes care of the boys and me over the next several months.

The Importance of Family Friendly Churches in the 21st Century

2009-03-04T12:45:00.006-05:00

I am currently taking a sabbatical from ministry to work on writing a book and getting my health back to normal.

It is wonderful living in Kerrville. The last few months we have been checking out different churches to see what would benefit our family and needs. A couple of Sundays ago we went to one church where they had power point for their announcements and information for visitors as well. When we came in they gave us a copy of a program that explain what their church was about. In both the power point and information pack kept stressing to keep your children quiet during church and if you had to take out a crying baby or child that they could still hear it in their foyer - stressing that they didn't want children to go to the bathroom during worship.

Well our youngest son Quinn is potty training and when he needs to go, he needs to go. Our middle son Collin misbehaves sometimes where we have to take him out and he cries. Ethan our oldest that morning had stomach problems and he had to get up.

We of course left disappointed and mentioned how the church as not family friendly at all and that our boys needed a church and believers that would appreciate them, love them, and help them grow in the knowledge and grace of God.

This past Sunday we placed our membership at the Kerrville Church of Christ. It has many young families including classes and ministries for the children. Dr. Greg Cummings is the minister at the church. He does a fantastic job keeping the audience's attention and makes the word of God come to life in an applicable way.

It is a grace oriented church that loves and cares for those who attend, including the children. One of the things we enjoy is that they invite the children to come forward and one of the elders of the church gives them a short message and prays over them. Children's church follows immediately after the blessing. Children's church allows the younger kids to learn on their appropriate age levels and gives the parents the opportunity to sit and get fed by the sermons.

The Medina Children's home (children, house parents , single mother cottages and all the other staff) have also placed membership over the past month. The church has been experiencing baptisms weekly. It is wonderful to see such growth happening at this congregation. It is alive and viberant as God continues to bless it. It is a great place for us to develop relationships and grow in faith. It is wonderful getting fed for a while, yet they equip members for service by using their gifts and talents. We are excited to be a part of this body of Christ and getting involved in community groups.

So the questions I want to ask and discuss are as follows: Do you think it is important for a church to be family friendly? Why or why not? What happens to churches who are not family friendly? What happens to churches that are family friendly? Is your church family friendly? If so, what kind of growth have you seen in your church? Is it possible for a non-family friendly church to become a family friendly church? If so, how? What steps and attitudes should churches take to be more family friendly? Do you see the church of the 21st century becoming more family friendly? Are you at a family friendly church? How has being in a family friendly church helped you?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Discussion on Lent

2009-02-25T15:12:00.006-05:00

There are many believers who do not practice Lent. I was wondering how those who practice Lent would describe it to those who do not know what it is all about.

I would love for us to discuss the following questions:

What is the Lent Season? Why practice it? Why not? What does Lent do for believers? What does it not do? If you practice this tradition, how it helped your life?

What do you think?

Share your thoughts.

Lets Talk About The Lord's Supper

2009-02-17T11:37:00.006-05:00

As I sit in my favorite coffee house with my son Quinn, I am thankful for all that God has done and continues to do in my life. God is wonderful and it is great that we as believers are allowed to commune with Him.

As Jesus faces the worst possible death imaginable; he takes the time to have one last meal with His disciples. The meal is known as the Last Supper and the Lord's Supper (Matt. 26: 26-30, Mark 14: 22-30, Luke 22:7-22). It is at this last meal that he takes the time to tell them what the bread and wine symbolize. His blood and His body, broken for us.

One of my favorite parts of worshiping God is taking the Lord's Supper or "Communion with God." I take the bread and remember what Jesus Christ did for me. I remember His body broken on the cross. I think about His willingness to sacrifice all for me. I take the time and remember and cherish the cross.

As I drink the cup of the Lord, I remember the blood that flowed from his head, back, hands and feet- the blood that cleanses my sin and failures. It is the blood that allows me to have a relationship with the Almighty God.

The Lord's Supper reminds me that it is not of my own power that I am saved. I spend the time in thankfulness for that blood. It is my opinion that we should not just remember the death but the also the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

He isn't dead, but alive.

I have been in many churches that felt like a funeral service of our Lord. We must as believers take the time and remember that He is not dead, but alive within us.

There are some churches that take the Lord's Supper daily as referred to in Acts. Others take the Lord's supper on Saturday and Sunday. There are some churches who take it once a month once a year and even weekly on Sundays. Does it matter when we take it?

Is it a salvation issue? Does taking the Lord's Supper every Sunday or how ever often make it an empty ritual? How can we make it meaningful?

The questions I want you to ponder and discuss are the following: When does your church take communion? Does it matter when we take the Lord's Supper? Do you think it has changed over the centuries? What does taking the Lord's Supper do for us as believers? What should our attitude be while taking it? What should we reflect on? Many mothers and fathers with young children have a hard time during communion concentrating on what is going on. Does God accept and understand us taking it? What does the Lord's Supper mean to you? What was the best experience you have had during the partaking?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Is Baptism Essential?

2009-02-04T17:41:00.002-05:00

I believe that the issue that is going to be discussed and debated among Churches of Christ in the 21st century is the essentiality of baptism.

Is baptism essential to one's savation? I know many Churches of Christ are embracing the ecumenical movement. There are more and more churches that are embracing instrumental music, women's involvement in worship as well as ministry and leadership roles.

But, I believe the issue that really needs to be discussed is the essentiality of baptism for salvation. If we are to be more tolerant, relevant, and ecumenical - is discussing this issue so important? If the church of Christ holds to the doctrine of the essentiality of baptism for remission of sins, what does that tell other denominations and believers? What message does that send to the rest of the Christian community? What reputation does it display? Does it show elitism? Do we become cultish when we make the statement that we are the only ones going to heaven because we have been baptism? Is it something that the Church of Christ is willing to compromise on? Is it something on which we can compromise? Are you willing to compromise on the doctrine of baptism? If not, why? If so, why should we? Does baptism save us? What is it that saves us from our sins? Do you see baptism as being an issue that is going to be debated in the years ahead?

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

What do you think?
Share your thought.

Does It Matter?

2009-01-30T12:50:00.005-05:00

If you, as a Christian, choose to associate yourself with a political party; which one is it? Why did you choose to associate yourself with it? What characteristics or values does your political party exhibit which attracted you to that party? Are they charactistics of Christ or Christianity? Does it matter? Why or why not?

What do you think?

Share your thoughts.

Thoughts On Prayer

2009-01-26T10:57:00.004-05:00

I was watching the inauguration and prayer service this past week and thought it was great to see all the different prayers offered up to God for our country and leaders. We are taught in scripture to pray for our leaders. We are taught by Paul to pray without ceasing as well , which got me to thinking about our prayer lives. I think it is wonderful that we as believers can boldly approach God in prayer. There was a time in my life when I didn't understand and practice constant prayer as I should. It is my personal opinion that prayer gives believers a deeper relationship with God and stronger faith as well. When our prayer life suffers so does our relationship with God and our faith. So the questions I want us to discuss and ponder for ourselves are: Do we as believers pray as we should? Do we find ourselves praying only in times of trouble? How does the Lord's Prayer help us? What is it for? Do we or should we as Christians choose our words when praying? If so why? Do we as believers understand the attitude we should have when approaching God in prayer? How do we pray without ceasing? How have you seen God work in your life through prayer? How have you seen its power?
How is your prayer life?
What do you think?
Share your thoughts.

Giving Credit To Where Credit Is Due

2009-01-17T21:26:00.006-05:00

I want to start by congratulating a friend and dynamic minister of faith, Charlton Taylor on his new ministry as "preaching minister" at Golf Course Road Church of Christ, Midland Tx. I wish him and his family many blessings during this new journey in his life.

I have been thinking lately as believers, do we give credit to God for the things he does in our lives? Is it easy for us as believers to give God credit for the good things ? When things are going great, do we see them as blessings from God or do we allow pride to set in and forget to thank God for the good. How thankful are we for those good things that come from God? There definitely have been times in my prayer life where I have had to stop and think about how much time I was thanking God for the good that was happening in my life. How much time do we spend thanking God for all the good things that happen to us?

Another thing that I want us to ponder is, do we give God credit for the bad things that happen as well. I strongly believe that we can grow in our faith when things are going both good and bad. I think we really grow and stretch when God allows the troubling times to occur. Yes, I understand that we suffer because of the consequences of sin that we have in our lives. I also believe that God allows the bad to occur in our lives to show us just how good and loving he really is. So when bad things happen in our lives should we give credit to God for the bad? Should we see both as opportunities to grow deeper and deeper in our relationship with Him?

So, why do we as believers give ourselves the glory for the things that we achieve or the good that goes on from day to day? Why is it that we forget to give God the glory for the good, the blessings? Can we grow in both times in our lives? How have you been changed in how you see the times of good and bad that has happened in your life? How have you allowed both of those times to deepen your relationship with God? How much time do we spend in prayer thanking God for the good and the bad? Think about what good things God is doing in your life right now. Please now think about what trials God has helped you overcome. Don't we serve a great God!!!!

What do you think?
Share your thoughts.