Posted on March 16th, 2008 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
I watched a movie tonight that felt so real to me. Reign Over Me, starring Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle. It’s about a guy, Charlie Fineman (Sandler), who lost him family in 9/11. He doesn’t want to come to a realization that he’s broken inside. It hurts him so deeply when he does as little as thinks about it. So, he chooses to do what’s the easiest; simply not remember. I am right there with him. I would so easily rather not remember something, rather than live and confront it. Life will hurt us. It’ll bring us down. There’s nothing we can do to avoid it. I am just so scared to confront the hurt because I fear that it will not leave. That’s not a suitable approach; I know that with all my heart. There’s a point where we need to just let go of whatever. We can either continue with life or live in the pain and sadness. I’ll admit it. I’ve lived in the sadness, I still am. I need to move on, I do. But I still haven’t been able to move on. I need help. Someday it’ll be gone. I’ll be able to live as if I had just been born. No worries, no sadness. Simply fulfillment and joy. It’s a heart-issue. Something I must confront with God.
My Aunt Diana died this past week. My mom has been having such a hard time with her. She was basically the only one on her side of the family that spoke with her on a regular basis. Everyone else wasn’t on speaking-terms with her. My mom won’t allow herself to move on. She knows she did everything she could to positively affect my aunt’s life, yet she never gave in. At least not that we knew of. She died, and we have no way of knowing if she was a believer. It breaks my mother’s heart. We both know that she sis all she did but for some reason it’s just not enough. I try to say the words that will help my mom in any way. It hurts to know that not one thing I say or do will or could do anything. Not one thing. I want to be there to support my mom, I do. It hurts me to see her hurt. I just wish there was something I could do.
My aunt left behind her two daughters, Lauren (19) and Thea (15). I feel so bad for them both. The fact that they have to bury their mother at such a young age just doesn’t seem right. Lauren is due to have her first child June 30th, a girl. My aunt was beyond ecstatic with her first grandchild on the way. But the little girl will never see or meet her late grandmother. I love my cousins so dearly. I just hope they know that, and that we all love them.
Life is so fragile, there’s no time to waste. I’ve had friends die before they ever got there driver’s license. We can’t allow ourselves to live without honoring God. I wish so badly I could share Him with everybody. Death isn’t the worst thing in the world. I truly believe life is to be celebrated. But if a life was spent in an ill-advised manner in which we didn’t honor God and love him, that’s when the sorrow sets in. When I know I’ll never see that person again because they didn’t know the Lord, that’s truly saddening. I guess that’s why I want to get into the ministry. I want to give everybody the chance to get to know God like I do. To live to there fullest. I’ve seen lives both wasted and embraced. And I was so excited to see the one whom embraced it get to go home to heaven. It was truly a celebration. And with the other one it was an emotion-fest. Not that there’s anything wrong with grieving. It’s OK. I just want to know that everything will be alright.
Posted on February 8th, 2008 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
That main page has a post on it referring to the service times. But, those are (And have been for sometime) out dated. These are the new service times:
The Rock: 9:30 AM in the Student Center,
&
Epic: 11:00 AM in the Student Center.
Thanks!
Posted on February 8th, 2008 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
Fasting:
Fasting has been, by far, the toughest topic we’ve covered. As a culture, many of us do not fully understand what it is; myself included. When Mike spoke on it in The Rock on Sunday, he had a lot to say about what fasting is and is not. For example, it’s not just not eating. Someone said it well, it’s going without something for an indefinite amount of time, and while you’re hungry or longing for that, you re-direct your attention to God. Instead of longing for food, long for him.
As Americans, we really don’t experience this Spiritual Discipline very much. It’s not something we really know. Why not get to know it, do some research, experience and try it. However, as it says in Matthew 6:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
So, if you choose to get praise from others, seek it. It will be given, but that’s all you will receive. God has more planned for you, embrace that instead.
Fasting may be something that really brings you closer to God, it may not. But I’d say it’s worth a chance. Start small, maybe you won’t drink soda for a week, or rather than playing video games, try to read the bible. Just a thought…
Posted on January 29th, 2008 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
The past few weeks we’ve been talking about spiritual disciplines. Of the eight scheduled topics, we’ve covered three; Simplicity, Prayer and Solitude. It is my belief that these three tie in to each other very closely.
Simplicity: In our lives, we find ourselves being consumed with the word around us, wanting more, always feeling discontent; Always having an unfilled craving. Like it says in Philippians 4:12-13, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Whether it be updating your gaming system from a PS2 to a PS3, or getting a new cool iPhone. Our culture has immersed itself in always needing more. And people wonder why they’re in debt? We need to slow down and look around at what we’ve got, what are needs and what are wants. God will provide for us, there’s no doubt. Just trust in him.
Prayer: So many people get caught up in trying to find the “right” words. Well, that’s not necessarily what’s important. Prayer is not a contest; it’s not trying to say what people want to hear. Prayer is a heart condition. It’s what is between you and God. An example I often refer to makes a great point. Relationships, much like ours with God can’t be maintained without constant communication. Any relationship is based off of talk, hanging out and fellowship. So, how can we expect our relationship with God to stay connected without making the effort? This has to be something you do all the time. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17 god commands us, “Pray Continually”. Now, we don’t need to take this in literal terms, but like earlier said, a good relationship is based off of talking. To pray continually is to be updating God, telling him what’s going on in life, and so on and so forth. Prayer is more than just going to God and requesting things. We need to praise God, make confessions, talk to him, update him, and pray for his will to be done. Most people only go to God in times of need, wanting something. Whether it is to heal a loved one, or to help them win their basketball game. God’s will is so much bigger than that. And to pray for his will is what is pleasing to God.
Prayer, however, is more than just the talking piece. You must take time to listen to what he is trying to say. Going back to my analogy, friends will easily feel annoyed when the other person is putting in 100% of the talking. We have to be able to give God a chance to speak into our lives. So, why don’t you take some time to reflect on what’s going on. This brings me to my next topic.
Solitude: Do you ever feel overwhelmed or cluttered? Do the words of God ever not sound clear to you? If so, why not take some time to be alone with God. To just soak in the beauty of his creation and listen to what he has to say. I did that earlier tonight. I went to my backyard and built a fire. As I was out there just relaxing, I read Genesis, and in it I read this, “God made two great lights- the greater light to govern the day and the lesser to govern the night. He also made the stars. God set them in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness…God saw and that he had made, and it was very good”. As I sat there, looking up into the heavens, and into God’s masterful creation I couldn’t help but smile. Those moments of solitude were more meaningful to me than any other moments of the day before me. I was simply worshiping God by going away from the distractions and spending some time with him. Those moments were very meaningful and at that time, I felt as close to God as I’ve ever felt.
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These three spiritual disciplines: Simplicity, prayer and solitude tie hand in hand. So, why not take some time to be away from the distractions, alone with God, not worrying about what new hot thing is coming out, what’s the score of the game, anything. Maybe you can take that time and pray. Or to just listen.
Posted on January 6th, 2008 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
Well, the New Year has begun. Did you make any resolutions? I didn’t, well at least I haven’t proclaimed any. I may have made some unspoken ones. Like perhaps not to date. That’d be a good one. It’s just too much trouble. Plus, if I’m going to go to school in Missouri in the fall, why start a new relationship before I go. It’d be pointless, unless of course she went to school with me. Which I don’t see anybody around me willing to do that. That and I don’t see myself dating anyone I know. At least, not at this point in time. I’m not ready for any relationships. I’ve determined that even though I feel I’m mature enough, that I’m really not. Also, God doesn’t want me in one. He’s made that quite prevalent. I think I must learn how to be myself, by myself before I can be myself with somebody else.
I think going away will be very beneficial to me. It’ll be a new start, a new life. Not that my current life isn’t working, I just feel like everything is just routine. I need a change. And I believe this is the right move.
So, I guess in a way my New Year resolution is to be a man of God. Listen, be obedient, and love people. Oh ya, and stay away from girls, LOL.
Posted on December 13th, 2007 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
School is finally out!! It took long enough, and to think that was only my first semester of college. Why can’t I just be done and possibly even retired by now? That would be the life. As I reflect on these past few months I’m sure I could have done better. But that is just a part of growing up. I may not know how to manage my time yet, but at least I know that I need to, LOL. Since school has started I’ve seen many changes in my life including seeing people come in and out of my life. A relationship has ended, I started and quit a job, and even started playing the guitar. (Thanks Jesse) This never ending revolving door of life has just begun and either I’m going to get dragged along for the ride or I can jump on a enjoy it. I choose that latter. To end the semester in my writing class I had to write an essay on my growth as a writer, how about my growth as a person?
I really haven’t grown that much. I have put on about five pounds since I graduated. I know, I know, that’s not the kind of growth I’m talking about. I’ve decided to quit worrying about crap. I’m going to let God take over. Because apparently I haven’t done too good of a job with myself.
I got accepted to Central Christian College of the Bible in Moberly, Missouri this past week. I’m super excited. I got a full-tuition scholarship, and have the opportunity to play basketball there. I talked to the coach and he’s very excited about the possibility of me being a part of the team. I’m not sure whether or not God wants me to go there yet so I need to just keep this in prayer. You could pray for me too if you’d like. I really am feeling led to go into the ministry. I’m just a little unsure about the details right now.
I started working out at a new gym. It’s fun, but tiring. I haven’t lifted since I graduated in May. It got a little out of hand, and now I’m feeling the consequences. I’m as sore as I’ve ever been, and it’s no fun. But it’s good that I’m going to start getting back into shape , and hopefully at that the best shape of my life. I’m working out with a good friend of mine, Dave. He’s a personal trainer there and he’s awesome. I met him through youth. He started working with the middle school with me. It’s good times. I’m training for basketball, that’s not fun. I love basketball, but not practicing. I’m just lazy like that.
Posted on November 30th, 2007 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
This life never ceases to amaze me. It’s a natural rollercoaster that shows you what you’re made of. How strong-willed, obedient, and patient we are. None of which I am. Really, what was I thinking? To think my will was above God’s. I’m lucky he’s so compassionate. Otherwise I’d be off in the distance, probably living on the wide path. Thankfully I’m walking the narrow bumpy road. There’s nothing easy about it. A friend of mine was joking about how easy non-Christ followers have. And they do, but when it’s all said and done with who’s got it easy? There are definitely times of clarity and ease, but that’s obviously not the concern.
I’ve been putting some serious thought and prayer into whether or not to go into the ministry full time. There’s a possibility I might move to Missouri to go to Bible College. I’m still unsure of what God wants of me. All I know, and care about is that I’m following his lead. And because of that, He’ll continue to give me strength. Louie Giglio speaks in his “How Great is Our God” DVD about how if we go on the path of righteousness that though it may not be easy, and though there may be hardships and pain that God will always keep us strong. He will always provide enough strength, and that he’ll keep giving, and keep giving, and keep giving. And we’ll never be alone. 1st Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”
We’ll always be under his hand of protection so there’s no need to worry. Keep strong, keep on the path of few and we’ll always have a way to be OK.
Posted on November 16th, 2007 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
The other day I was talking to somebody I’d consider quite intelligent and he brought up a very good point. Why is it that people always say “Thank You Jesus” or “Praise You Lord, For You Are Good” and stuff like that whenever things are going well in your life. But for some reason when things are going bad it’s never the same. I thought it was quite a valid point. Why not say thank you regardless of the circumstances in which you are presented?
People try to live their lives for God, but for the most part from what I can see they only praise him through the good times. Why not praise him all the time? There is a song by Casting Crowns called “Praise You In This Storm” and it addresses the same thing. The course goes like this:
“And I’ll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I’ve cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm”
My goal in life is to love and praise God no matter what happens. So I challenge you to thank God for EVERYTHING. Whether it be positive or negative. Live a life in which we are reflecting God’s grace and love for us. I know I sure will try.
I’m going through a storm right now, but I decided not to get caught up in the drama. If it’s God’s will it will be so, if not He’s got something better planned for me and I have to trust that his judgement is what is best for me. Regardless of my selfish pride and wants.
Thank you Lord.
Posted on November 16th, 2007 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
If you’ve never heard of the Band Sanctus Real, I’d encourage you to listen to a song on their first album (Say It Loud). The name of the song is After Today. It’s so moving. The words speak, “Praise God He’s got a plan and Understanding isn’t my place”. Those words are so encouraging in light of my current situation.
On another note, not too far off from this one; if you ever get the chance to watch Louie Giglio’s recent DVD do it. It really puts us into proportion compared to God. Well, as close as we can. It speaks of His unparalleled size and awe. I could write about it for hours. Just watch it!
I guess that’s enough promoting for me, I’m out.
Posted on November 16th, 2007 by dustin.
Categories: Uncategorized.
Have you ever heard people say, “Back in the good old days”? Why do you think that is? For a reason unknown, people dwell on the past as if their best days are behind them. Can you honestly say that you wouldn’t go back if you had the chance?
How much time do we spend wishing things were the way they used to be? I used to think if I had the chance, that I’d go back and fix things; to reshape my life. Not anymore. Why not live for the chance to define yourself in the present and throw the old you away. Take pride in the change. Things aren’t how they were, and we can’t do anything about it.
Rob Bell says it better than I could hope to. He says, “When we’re still holding on to how things were, our arms aren’t free to embrace today.”
Here’s my challenge: Live for Today, not for the remembrance of yesterday.
