What I Heard...

Day 15: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-28T11:31:00.000-05:00

This week, a bunch of students are on a missions trip to the St. Louis Dream Center. I'm SO excited for them! I had planned to go earlier in the summer, but I've given a lot of time to ministry, so I decided that it was important to give this month to my family. Keeping the balance...

So while they're there, I'm praying some very specific things for them. First of all, I'm praying that they are able to have a supernatural impact on lives of people who are in need of Christ. I pray that the work they do will have ETERNAL significance.

The second thing I'm praying is that they will have another awakening in their spirit to the purpose that God has for them. Some of them (not just the students; adults too) went down there with some big issues in life. There are some struggles and distractions that have been sucking the passion out of their spiritual lives. So I'm praying that they get a renewed focus on what's important, and continue to seek God about what He has in store for them. He has a plan...but we have to seek Him and His Kingdom first...then He will add those other things that we want to know about. "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you." Easy to memorize - difficult to live out.

Day 14: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-27T13:46:00.000-05:00

Can you still walk away?

Sadly, over the years of being actively involved in church leadership, I've seen too many people that I thought were committed followers of Christ just walk away from Him. They didn't just leave our church...they turned back to their old life. I'm always bewildered and heartbroken by that. It begs the question - "Did they really KNOW Him?" "Had they truly repented?"

Ultimately only God knows that. But I do believe that when you dive deeply into being a disciple of Jesus Christ - there is no turning back for you. Like Peter said in John 6:68, Lord, where are we going to go (my paraphrase)? Only You have the words of eternal life. When you have that AHA moment and realize what Christ has rescued you from, you are forever changed. Salvation results from that revelation...and a deep love that grows in your heart out of that understanding. Once you get there, I don't think you can pretend like it never happened. So my theory...most of those people never quite got there. Only my theory. God only knows.

Day 13: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-25T10:13:00.000-05:00

What does God expect from me?

Have you ever asked yourself that question? I think we unconsciously live out our answers, but we don't really think it through. I think we feel lots of guilt when we sin because we think that our performance is what impresses God. I think we go to church because we think He has a big clipboard and is keeping track. We give $2 in the STL offering because then at least people see us participating - and it's better than nothing, right?

But what is God really looking for from us? Why should we strive to do what's right? Why should we discipline ourselves to go to church and meet with other believers? Why should we personally sacrifice so that others can hear the Gospel of Jesus?

Day 12: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-25T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Secret Place...

Everyone has one. Even God has one. To me, it's the place where I escape the world to be alone in God's presence. It's a place of conversation, meditation, reading, resting, worship, humility, listening, weeping, pursuing, adoring, waiting, seeking, passion, practicing, soul-searching, understanding, asking, and dying.

Day 11: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

This is harder than it looks. I think the pre-printed reflection questions would definitely be helpful. :o) Okay - enough excuses. I'll catch up...

I just had my two nephews stay with me for a week. They are 7 and 9 years of age. They are boys, therefore they are energetic, creative, and excitable. That's a gentle way of saying hyperactive, bored easily, and sometimes combative with each other. LOL I already knew that before they came...my purpose was to bless my sister and her husband. They have a special needs daughter who requires very intensive and consistent care, and it definitely puts stress on their family life and marriage. So we gave them a gift of a week of relaxation. They arranged for extra nursing care and had a fantastic week.

So I KNEW the challenge was coming. I was going to have to CHOOSE to be patient and try to prevent problems before they arose. I mentally geared myself up for it the week before. And everything went really smooth! I was with my kids and my nephews all day Thursday and Friday - entertaining them - and by Friday evening, I was worn out. :o) But we had a lot of fun, I felt closer to them, and it was all worth it.

What would have happened if I hadn't prepared myself? I would have been surprised and frustrated by the little conflicts that come up. I would have been annoyed by the messes that were made. I would have not had any ideas how to keep them busy and they would have been in more mischief. I would have probably gotten crabby at everyone else because of all those things. So our house would have been in chaos, we would have been irritable with each other, and the boys would probably not wanna come back.

Preparing yourself for difficulties that lie ahead (and there ALWAYS are some) is always worth the effort, and saves you a great deal of pain. So take that approach in your spiritual life too. What may change?

Day 10: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-20T16:59:00.000-05:00

So what do you do when a really bad day comes? When it seems like every area of your life is getting messed with? What is your response to that?

A lot of people blame God or at the very least, get really angry at Him. He CAN stop it, so why doesn't He? I think that a lot of the things that we really care about are basically meaningless to God...in the scope of ETERNITY. So many things we spend time on will not matter in our eternal life.

But if we have an eternal mindset all the time, even those "trivial" things can matter. I'm sure I won't be a cheerleader in heaven - BUT if it brings me a little social status and attention at school, I could use that influence to attract people to our Souled Out Club!! Then they may become curious about church...and maybe then about God...and maybe they would make a decision to follow Him for life... Now THAT'S eternally significant!! And it all started with cheerleading! If we change our perspective about the way we look at life, we can find God's hand everywhere!

So when the terrible days come...and they will...you will still be able to see Him moving in your life if you have your eternal lenses on. We go through seasons of mountains and valleys, and God doesn't leave us through any of it!

Day 9: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-18T15:06:00.000-05:00

So I'm wondering how everyone is doing with seeking RADIATION like we talked about at camp. I used an analogy that I thought might help an idea stick.

We are all born with the same "disease" - sin. It's like cancer. You didn't choose it - you were born with it. It begins to make you "sick" very early on. Two year olds act out in anger and selfishness without anyone teaching them how. It's the cancer. So we learn to TREAT the disease as we get older. When you become a Christian, you receive the cure for it! But like cancer, you have to take care of your spiritual health so that the cancer will stay in remission. It's like when the Bible talks about mastering your sinful desires. It doesn't mean the desires disappear - but it does mean that they are not mastering you - you are mastering them by the power of the Holy Spirit.

In order to keep this cancer in remission, you need to nourish your spiritual life with the right things...prayer, the Word, Christian fellowship, etc. But you also need to seek RADIATION - time soaking in God's presence. His love and forgiveness is what keeps the cancer from killing us. You can be saved and get into heaven on just receiving the cure, but your life will be one full of pain and sickness if you don't continue to seek His radiating presence.

Have you been taking care of your spiritual health? How much radiation have you had this week?

Day 8: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

We had an amazing time of sharing our stories about camp with our church. The response was overwhelming - people were really touched and excited to hear about what God had done. We need to remember that our church family is supporting us...sometimes teenagers feel like they're just looking down on them. But what from I've heard, I know for sure (even though I already knew this), that most people aren't watching to criticize. They're just watching to see how God is moving.

But I think you need to go beyond just worrying about whether they're judging your behavior. I think it would be even better if the young people in church SET THE BAR for everyone else! Why shouldn't they be the most committed, the most passionate, the most expressive in their faith and worship? In your youth, you have natural energy to be active - so why not take that energy and put it to use by inspiring others through your life?

Day 7: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-12T16:47:00.000-05:00

So today my Pastor prayed something interesting when we were praying for all the students - especially those who had gone to camp. He said something like "Father we pray that their experience with You was not only environmental". I have been thinking about that during my secret place time today.

Environment IS important to your time with God. You have to choose an environment that will not distract you from being with Him or hearing Him. At camp, we did not have electronic devices to steal our attention and time. We had no work schedule, sports practices, or social opportunities to make time for. Our purpose was to carve out 5 days to give to God. So I know we can't always carve out 5 whole days. BUT we could remove all those things for one hour a week couldn't we? I'm realizing that part of the impact of my time with God does depend on the environment that I create. I take an hour every Tuesday to go in our sanctuary, plug the iPod into the sound system, journal and pen ready if needed, and I don't take calls or visits for one hour. The lights are dim and the music is loud (worship tunes but I like that if someone walks in while I'm storming heaven, they won't necessarily hear what I'm praying). And it is a GREAT connect time with God for me. But it's not the ONLY way I sense His presence and connect with Him.

Do you think that environmental issue is a problem for you? Have you limited your God-rocking-my-world moments to camp, youth convention, and lock-ins? What can you do to create the environment you need to connect with God? He certainly isn't exclusive - the Holy Spirit will meet you anywhere.

Day 6: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-11T22:43:00.000-05:00

Boy it's hard to blog every day. Some people do that but I seriously don't know how. So this will be a 21 Day Journal - but not over 21 consecutive days. :o) (I'm sure lots of campers are doing the same thing.)

So we had this incredible testimony service on Sunday morning. I have had multiple people comment to me about how powerful and moving it was. I seriously had the "camp intensity" as we shared what God had done at Kamp Kinship. Worship before that was so anointed...and every student really shared from their heart. Bre gave her 5 minute sermon and it was really a powerful time!! It was SO good for the adult congregation to see the passion that students can have. I was able to ask them to raise the bar for their own lives so that our students would always feel comfortable in our church - that they could freely express themselves in ministry and in worship - that they would know they're loved even when they fail. Most of the room was in tears for a good hour. Praise God...

Then our senior pastor got up to close (we WERE the message this week), and we cried again. He shared how he was transported back to age 16 while he listened to them. He shared stories from his own camp experiences - times that were so powerful. He shared how God called him to ministry at age 16. He loved on the students and told them how proud he was. It was just such an amazing time as a church family. I've asked the students to be BOLD in their Christian life - that they're safe in our church. I feel even better about that now. I pray that even in their failure, the body of Christ will make a point to love on them and encourage them. We are so blessed. I know there are others who don't have a supportive church, whose worship is full of life and exuberance, whose leaders don't make the effort to reach out to students. I know that happens. But for those who have more - BE THANKFUL!!!

Day 5: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-08T14:31:00.000-05:00

Well after today, I felt a little bruised up. It was a long day of difficult ministry. Not a single teenager involved. I know some people think that teens are difficult to deal with. But I just don't agree... I guess it's because I expect them to be inconsistent, immature and self-centered. But when adults (who are Christians) act that way, it's incredibly frustrating to me. People are going through some really difficult circumstances, and I truly have compassion for them. But I can't quite understand why people don't take advantage of every possible tool that is offered to help them get through crises. ???

It's kind of like the camp crash syndrome. You can just watch the experience fade away...or you can pursue the presence of God in every possible avenue to keep the fire stoked. You learn discipline in your devotional life, go to church, worship in your car, go to prayer meeting...CHASE HIM!!!!

Day 4: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-06T23:24:00.001-05:00

Now we're getting to the point where people either slip back to the inconsistency of their pre-camp life OR they grab every opportunity they can to be in God's presence to keep the fire stoked. So where are you?

During preservice prayer today, I remembered the intensity of preservice prayer on Tuesday and Wednesday night at camp. With a little direction, students were crying out to God in fervent prayer. They were spread out all over the chapel, worshipping and interceding in their own way. I saw that again tonight from the students who were there. They were focused and some had intense moments where I could tell they were having a serious conversation with God. That is what it's going to take... A serious pursuit of His presence and His touch!

Day 3: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-06T00:05:00.000-05:00

One of the toughest things about a great week of camp is coming home. Going home doesn't have to mean automatic deflation of an incredible mountain-top experience...but, sadly, it usually does. Part of that is spiritual immaturity - which is totally understandable. Teenagers are still growing and developing physically and emotionally. Spiritually, they are often just coming in to their own faith. They're just realizing that they can't live off their parents' experience and advice. So immaturity (even though it's a word they don't care for) is a big factor in the "camp crash".

But another big one is the circumstantial stuff they come home to. The people who weren't there didn't share the same God-moments...life just went on as usual. The problems they left were waiting when they got home. The consequences of previous choices were still lingering, waiting to be paid. And then of course - the enemy of our souls knows just what buttons to push to bring us crashing down to reality. Just in our church, people experienced death of someone close, enormous relationship pressure, serious family conflict, and near depression. No one seems to have been spared. I warned them...when we experience something intense like that week of camp, Satan will not let that go quietly.

So now what?? What do we do with that?

Day 2: My 21 Day Journal

2011-07-03T17:31:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things about being at camp is that the students get really close. It makes sense. They're experiencing a powerful time together. People let their guard down at the altar. They encourage each other to worship, pray, and be vulnerable. I saw tough guys crying out to God. I saw popular kids with tears streaming down their faces. I saw outcasts being accepted and embraced during prayer. I saw quiet, awkward kids stepping up to take responsibility for what God was saying to them. The presence of God is a place of transformation. True repentance goes from a change in thinking to a change in behavior. The environment at camp makes it easy to have a change in thinking. But the change in behavior can't be tested until you go home. As I watched the change in thinking take place - in even the toughest cases - I couldn't help but have some fear about whether they are strong enough for the change in behavior that needs to follow.

Immediately on Monday night, there was an electricity at the altar. People went up even if the altar call didn't apply to them. They were just so hungry for God's touch, it didn't seem to matter what it was about. Sometimes Monday services are the "warm up" time and we don't expect much. But this time the standard was set high right from the start! I went to sleep that night SO excited to see what was coming next.

Day 1: My camp 21 day journal

2011-07-03T17:19:00.000-05:00

I am going to attempt to record some thoughts about summer camp this year. I am doubtful that I can find adequate words to describe it, but here goes... I knew as we packed up the van that the students were expecting - even needing - a special week in God's presence. There were some who have had a difficult time the last few months, so I understood what they were looking for. But there others that didn't have any specific struggle going on, other than just feeling "dry" in their spiritual life. Students always look forward to camp. But there was something different this year.

I think it's related to the same hunger that's been rising in our church. We've been at a "stuck" place and are feeling this sense of frustration about how to move on from this place. We know that God wants us to seek a deeper connection with Him. So there we were...packing up to leave. There were students who were hoping to have fun and meet new people. There were some who were excited to hang out with old friends. Some were truly hoping for a miracle - a magic moment where God took all their sinful desires away and made them a better Christian. Some just wanted the intensity of worship and altar services, but didn't really want God to change them too much. Others were desperately hoping that God would answer their questions about where to go from here. The adults were just holding their breath and praying that something meaningful would happen. I think what God ultimately decided to do was beyond any of those expectations.

Supernatural Compass

2010-09-14T09:25:00.000-05:00

Well another school year has started. It's Homecoming week! I'm sure to most students, everything feels "normal". But to those who have had a pretty supernatural summer, "normal" isn't enough. I saw the Holy Spirit move in the hearts of many students this summer - starting with camp (mine included). A missions trip transformed two others. And it hasn't stopped yet. There still remains a HUNGER in their hearts like I haven't seen here before. I've been praying every Tuesday afternoon for an hour - and asking God for divine wisdom about how to lead during this school year.

Psalm 25:14 says "Lord I want You to CONFIDE in me! Share Your plan with me!"

That's been my prayer! Lord, show me Your secret wisdom. So that I can follow Your supernatural compass for direction instead of human wisdom. I challenged the students last Wednesday to ask themselves, "What if this is it?" "What if this is your LAST school year?" What will you leave behind if Jesus raptures His church? Will they know why you're gone?

There were 15-18 students who responded to the call that they wanted a different life - they wanted to be a true follower of Christ. Life shouldn't revolve around church...or school...or a relationship... But it should revolve around Jesus Christ! And if we TRULY believe this stuff, then it should radically change our life! That can be a scary idea in our human thinking. So we need to stay focused on the dial of the supernatural compass that the Holy Spirit provides to see where we go from here.

We want it to be a different school year. We want to see God move in the hallways of our schools, and to transform the lives of our friends. Where do we start? I have no clue...

But I know how to find out. So this Wednesday, we are spending our entire service seeking the Lord and soaking in His presence. There will be no games or life groups or chatting. If we are serious about wanting to know what God has for us, then we have to learn how to be heavyweight prayer warriors. Age does not affect whose prayers are heard. We need to hear from Him! Let's just see what God will do through us as we ask Him.

My STL Challenge

2010-05-03T15:48:00.000-05:00

Well, as much as I greatly admire Pastor Patience Linton in Huron...I cannot shave my head for STL. BUT I will do something drastic to it if our students meet my challenge. I am definitely a little vain when it comes to my hair - okay, I admit it. I work hard to keep it healthy.

If Ardent YM students can raise $3,000 in the next 6 weeks for Speed The Light (before middle school camp), I will dye half of my hair pink (or another color if they insist). Maybe you don't think this is drastic enough...but if you know me, you know how drastic it is. I will keep it like this for the entire summer. (You have to picture her as a brunette.) It would be something like this picture...I'll color the whole bottom half and a few pieces so it shows through. Ohhhhh I feel queasy just looking at that...

I pray that our congregation will be gracious in having to look at it. :o) It's a GOD CAUSE so we can't go wrong, right?

If you want to watch their fundraising progress, click here to see our STL Thermometer on our website.

(mumbling to myself) It's worth it...it's worth it...it's worth it. Wow I've gotta work on hair vanity.

Ardent YM Dirty Jobs

2010-05-03T14:48:00.000-05:00

I am really excited about this new idea for raising Speed the Light funds! We already have several "dirty" jobs lined up for the next few weeks - and so far, those jobs alone are worth over $1200! Yes, one of them involves manure. :-D It's SO cool to see how many students have signed up to help too.

We have already completed our first dirty job...it wasn't terribly dirty. But it was kind of an urgent need for the church, and you guys came through! Great Job!

1 Girl Revolution

2010-02-22T09:38:00.000-06:00

I meant to do this 2 weeks ago...we had a great discussion one night at 1GR about WORRY. We talked about how God's Word tells us over and over that He will take care of our needs. Yet most of us have never learned how to enjoy the real peace that Jesus died for us to have.

We worry and stress and get anxious about almost everything. God has this intricate, beautiful plan for our lives (like a perfectly created daisy) - which includes tough times - and we can completely trust Him. But with our worry and stress, it's like we pick away at his beautiful creation (like the daisies that look half eaten). After we're done freaking out and trying to manipulate our circumstances, we're often left with a sad looking life.

Worrying doesn't add any good thing to your life. Trusting God is a great sermon title, but can be hard to live out sometimes. But let's keep working at it and not pick away at the beautiful plan God has for us.

New Year Refocus

2010-01-01T15:57:00.000-06:00

The Christmas season is so fun and crazy...and a total departure from "regular life". The regular routine of life is pretty much out the window for most of us! You stay up late - talking, playing games, watching movies - with relatives, friends...then go to bed (usually in the guest room or on the pull-out couch)...then wake up, after sleeping in late, and eat an incredible amount of fattening food all day long. There are always plenty of emotions to tap into when you're with family you don't see very often. Someone's usually annoyed or frustrated because of someone else, the kids are usually loud and easily bored, and it's difficult to remember what day it is because things are so "not normal". Hopefully there are also wonderful family moments, warm hugs to share, and maybe even a few sentimental words exchanged.

And I look forward to the crazy wonderful chaos of it all every year! But now that's it's winding down, I am really looking forward to a week to refocus and "start fresh". I am looking forward to the week of prayer and fasting more than ever this year. I don't know if you've ever set aside time for fasting before, but here are a few reasons why I enjoy this time (even though it's very difficult at the same time).

The end of the year usually seems to end with lots of disorganization (for the reasons I mentioned in the first paragraph). So after the new year begins, I am SO ready to get refocused. I don't really buy into the whole New Year Resolution thing, but I do believe that it's important to take time to evaluate where you are, where you'd like to go, and how you think you'll get there. I think that the perfect time to do that is while you're fasting! Your body is cleansing itself of impurity - what better time to allow your mind to be washed by the Holy Spirit? There's a certain spiritual clarity that comes when you commit yourself to a fast.
Don't allow your fear of having wrong motives stop you from fasting. Something I hear from a lot of people about fasting is that they are afraid they're doing it for the wong reasons. Like "I like losing weight, I feel like I'm being more 'spiritual', I'm going to try to convince God to do something for me..." Those are all things we've all thought about. I've decided in the last couple of years that I'm not going to let those things stop me from developing a spiritual discipline that Jesus Himself practiced! Yes, I think I will struggle at times with having right motives while I'm fasting. I think that's part of the struggle between the spirit and the flesh. But instead of giving up, I'm going to talk to God about it (He already knows), and ask Him to help me grow in faith so that my motives come into line with His will. Developing a discipline is always a good idea! You may waffle a bit in why you're doing it, but it will be another weapon in your spiritual arsenal...and when you get stuck in a difficult place, you will be glad it's there.
I don't want to just keep trudging along in life. I know that God has guided my life and will continue to do so. But I'm serious when I say I want to see Him do something HUGE here. I think there are a lot of amazing stories that He's waiting to write, but He's waiting on us to be ready. We get too caught up with just trying to make our life better that we miss some incredible opportunities to impact others for the Kingdom of God! Wouldn't it be awesome to see a great move of God in our community? Like to see people crammed into a church service because they just can't wait to see what God is going to do next? Maybe it won't look like I imagine it - but I know God desires to see an epic revival - even in little old South Dakota. :o) On whatever scale (large or small) it might be, I want to see God's Spirit move among us...and I want to do whatever my part of that might be. From what I see in the Word, Jesus said that His followers will fast when they're seeking His return. I'M READY!!!
Good death practice. Paul says that we have to die daily as we walk this Christian life. Fasting is definitely dying to the fleshly appetites. By telling your body NO, you are setting aside the natural desires and appetites, and asking the Lord to fill you with supernatural nourishment. We ALL need more of this. If you really want to see your loved ones come to know Christ, if you really want to see your school or workplace filled with believers, if you really want to find God's purpose for your life...then this is a great time to put more of you to death. Less of me, more of Him.

I'd like to challenge you to go a step farther in your fasting this year. We are fasting together as a church - to seek God's direction for us. If you have no other reason to fast - that's your reason! We are only as effective as we are surrendered to the will of our Heavenly Father. Without His direction and the fuel of the Holy Spirit, we are just running in place here. Working hard - but not going anywhere.

Payton shared this story with me - brave choice!

2009-12-04T10:24:00.000-06:00

There is this new girl in school and she is a freshman like me. She came from Beverly Hills so alot of people are and were jealous of her (which I have to admit I was jealous as well) but she started hanging out with the "preps" so basically people just talked behind her back. Well today in P.E. class, all of the "preps" left during SRP time (extended class period) to go do gift wrapping so I starting thinking "you know you should go sit by her; how would u feel". So I told my friends that I was going to go sit by her and they thought I was weird for having the idea. So I ignored them and went and sat by her. And right then I felt something inside of me telling myself, wow good job for standing out. So we talking and my friends actually ended up coming over to sit with both of us. I was very prould especially when I saw the expression on her face telling me that she was very thankful that I would be such a nice friend. It was very nerve racking to know how she would react since I didn't know her to well.

Pastor Annette says, "That something inside her was the Holy Spirit! And being obedient to that was so rewarding for her. Thanks Payton for sharing that...so proud of you!"

Briana W.'s Overflow Story

2009-10-15T09:01:00.000-05:00

I have always wanted to do something great for God but i never knew what to do then i went to church camp and i knew that i needed to start with a job so i applied for a job at a vet clinic but unfortunately all spots were filled. which really seemed to bring me down and i just didnt know any other places looking for a 15 year old to hire so i took alittle break. I was selling tie-dye shirts on the side but i wasn"t having hardly any luck with that i had only sold like two which wasn't much help but it was a start. I was starting to wonder what God wanted me to do. I still thought well i really need a job some extra spending money, college was coming up quite fast some money in that fund wouldnt hurt. but my mind was in the wrong place. Every wensday we were reminded on 9-9-09 where we would give $99.99 to speed the light and i kept thinking i want to do that but i am so broke. Well on a thursday about a month before school started the vet clinic where i had applied a couple months before was calling me asking me if i could come in for an interview. The girl that had been working there wasn't working out and she was moving. So i agreed to come in to have an interview the following thursday. Unfortunately i had been so excited i had forgot that the wed. before my interview thats right just one day before, i was going to have my wisdom teeth cut out. So not only was i nervous for my interview i was in a whole lot of pian. But i got the job that i wanted really badly. I also had plenty money to do 9-9-09 and give my $99.99 to speed the light plus my tie-dye shirt sales which was $14.00 coming out to be $113.99. Not much but hey that is just the begining of what God has planned... :) TO BE CONTINUED !!!!!

1 Girl Revolution

2009-10-08T09:06:00.004-05:00

Well, we just finished week 5 of our 1GR study on the Battlefield of the Mind (Joyce Meyers). It's not too late to join! It's awesome how the Word of God cuts right to the core of what we're dealing with. And even though the details of our circumstances can be vastly different - the battle is the same. Along with our Bible study, we have an assignment each week. It's either a DO, ASK, or WRITE. The DO means that we have something we actually have to do (like pray for someone). The ASK is a question that we have to ask someone else, relating to what we talked about (like "what spiritual tool do you most often use when you are disappointed by something someone else did?"). And the WRITE is simply to write a journal entry. Each girl has a 1GR journal.

So far, we've covered who the real enemy is...and that he (Satan) is a liar. We talked about how EASY it is to believe the bad thoughts - those bad thoughts come without any effort whatsoever! But to think on good things takes work - and our choice!

Provers 23:7 is our verse (we're all memorizing it): "So as a person thinks in her heart, so is she." (NKJV) We changed the gender reference of course. :o)

We've also talked about perseverance. Not giving up is sometimes half the battle! We get worn out from the negative things that happen and we just want to quit. Disappointment is inevitable. Maintaining a positive attitude has a POWERFUL effect on our lives! Praise Him in all things!

This week, Amy did a great exercise. We had a piece of paper, and we wrote the things that we know we need to surrender to the Lord. They were things that we know keep bringing us down in our walk with Christ, and our relationships with others. We put those papers in a coffee can and went outside and burned them! It was an act of faith that we want to lay those things down and allow God to transform us into who He's called us to be.

I hope you can consider joining us sometime. Tuesdays at 5:00.

Emily's Overflow so far...

2009-08-31T14:36:00.004-05:00

In Semptember of last year, my step dad got into a really bad motorcycle accident that should have killed him, but from the glory of God, his life was spared. But I am not saying that he didnt come out without a scratch. Let me tell you... he was pretty banged up. During this time my mother wasnt working so we truly had no money. I felt like I needed to give back my allowance to my parents since they needed the money more then I did. During the process of healing and my stepdad being able to do the daily things once again (ex shower, eat...etc). I was going through some pretty hard situations also. By some miracle, we got through the rough patch with money.

In March my mom started a new job. My step dad still hasnt been working since Semptember and he started getting very depressed. One Wed night, Annette threw these little white papers on the floor for us to go pick one up to help little kids across the globe with things like food, doctors, and school and so forth. I started crying, I wanted to do one but I just didn't have enough money. Then Annette and myself had a very nice and long talk about how Overflow isnt just a dollar amount - its what you do too. I noticed that even though I wasn't giving money at that time, I was giving my time to different church events. Those profits where going to go to Speed the Light.

Then the 9nine challenge came and I really wanted to do it. I knew I didnt have the money and I didnt know where the money would come from. So one day I emptied my wallet into a box and put it on my book shelf. All I had was a dollar and a lot of change. Then my birthday was coming, so all I asked for was money. I felt called to give every single cent from my birthday money to this 9nine challenge. I know if you listen to God, he will pay you more then what you could have possibly wanted. So far, for the 9ine challenge I have raised $72.99. I have had thoughts saying I can't reach it. It's impossible. But I just have to keep believeing that I will earn it. Then a couple of days later, my moms boss, Doug (he owns the Dairy Dock) asked my mom how old I was and if I was looking for work!! And she said she had to talk to me about it and I said I would do it. They're even going to pick me up from school and bring me to work! They havent garenteed the job yet, but I believe that somehow I will raise the remaining money I need. Something I have learned during all this is that God will provide and I have to put my trust in him. Doing all this has really pushed me more out of my comfort zone and to do the impossible. With God's help everything's possible!

My STL Overflow Story - Kristie

2009-08-24T18:11:00.003-05:00

I felt lead to sell homemade zuchinni bread for my STL Overflow project - there is always an overflow of zuchinnis. But about one week later my zuchinni plants in my garden died; I admit I was pretty disgusted. And I even wondered "now what am I gonna do" but a couple weeks later my neighbor brought me a sack full of zuchinnis and told me I could have more. So I have made 6 batches of zuchinni bread (about 18 loaves) and sold all of them. And I can still get zuchinnis so I am planning on making more. I have also thought about selling jars of home canned pickled hot peppers; still putting some feelers out there concerning that.

In this process of selling baked goods - I have an idea for December's overflow - What about a Cookies for Cars Bake Sale?

Overflow Story - Bre

2009-08-10T09:49:00.001-05:00

I wanted 2 do something big for missions but I always had in the back of my head I would never accomplish what I wanted so I didn’t want to try. I had gotten a job at a little art studio downtown. That would mean not getting paid like a regular job because it was mostly volunteer but I would get paid a little and than I would be volunteering all my time there and none getting paid working for my dad and the last few weeks I had been volunteering working there I had been really praying about my over flow and what I wanted to do with it. I wanted to do something great but I have a car that needs some work and I need gas money so I was like no way this isn’t going to work I will wait to do my overflow. About a month before in youth group we talked about helping others and my youth Pastor put out papers we could chose from that said like, support a child for 6 month $30, or support a family. For 1 month $30 ECT. I had chosen support a family for 1 month $30 and I honestly blew it off knowing I wasn’t going 2 be able to pay that. And about a week ago we talked about the 9ine challenge and I was like that’s so cool! But I knew I wasn’t going 2 be able to pay that so I just put in the back of my mind. I got payed at my last week at the art studio I was paid $130, the exact amount need for all of the money I wanted to give to overflow… I was so amazed I knew immediately what I was supposed to do with it. Give it all. And I was offered more money and hours at the art studio next year and plans for stuff to do in the school year. Knowing I am giving all this money for missions makes me feel great that I didn’t just waste it on stuff I wanted but that is my overflow story and it was great.

Overflow Story - Hunter

2009-08-10T09:42:00.002-05:00

I read the overflow book on the plane ride to California(like 5 days after camp) and i was definetly gonna do something. I knew i was gonna work this summer with my grandfather as a laborer in his landscaping buisiness. I started praying about what to do with the money i was going to make, and i didnt really feel anything. I was pretty dissapointed, i wanted to do something AWESOME for god. I wanted to be one of those awesome stories in that little black and white book. But i was super conflicted, i only owned one guitar and a small amp, and i wanted an acoustic guitar, or a piano, or an amp, or alot of other things that i didnt have for music. then my paycheck got drained pretty bad, i had to give some cash to my mom because of a phone bill thing, my tithe took more out of course (but i knew that was gna happen :D) and i blew my first hundred or so on a new skateboard(idiot) then my mom texted me asking about the 9/9/09 thing. that took another hundred out, i was left with 280 dollars. Now for an amp, or a guitar, or a keyboard, thats pretty much nothing. I was REALLY dissapointed, i was only able to give 99 dollars for overflow,and doing that cost me getting an amp or a great pedals. we went to guitar center and i brought my 280 with me.we went into the acoustic room. i picked up a Takamine G series eg540SC (dragonfly) it was 349 dollars. i loved the sound acousticly, we plugged it in and it sounded great. My dad said he'd pay for the rest. Then after the clerk rang it up and went to get a bag, i looked at what the list price was, 899 dollars! we had a 10% off coupon, and there was a sale on it, but it came out to be a 61% discount!i got a 900 dollar acoustic-electric guitar, that was the exact color and sound i wanted, for 350 roughly 350 dollars! God blessed the sacrifice, and i had already given up on getting a guitar! Another thing that amazed me after i thought about it, was that at camp god laid on my heart to leave a great non-christian band to do something more ministry related. When i first realized it i cried. i loved being in that band and everyone i was with were awesome guys to hang around with. God honored that by giving me the guitar i had day-dreamed about getting(yes i did. lol i am aware of how lame that is) I nearly wept after I realized the blessings i had gotten, just by obeying him! He has opened many doors musicially for me since then, and i'm trying my hardest to grow closer to him. This road sucks sometimes. but its SO much better to walk on :D anyways, this is pretty long and i figure i should end with, if your dissapointed in what your overflow puts out, the amount, or whatever your using, its not about the amount, its the sacrifice, and your heart that blesses god and makes him want to bless you.

The Room...

2009-08-04T09:29:00.002-05:00

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings.

As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one.And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content.

Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching. A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," "Jokes I Have Laughed at." Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've yelled at my brothers." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents.

Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature. When I pulled out the file marked "TV Shows I have watched", I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it.

Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand. And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him.

No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus.

I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards.

I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

--This was written by Joshua Harris, Spring Issue 1995 of New Attitude Magazine

Learn the Language

2009-05-08T09:45:00.003-05:00

When Jason Harshbarger was here on Wednesday, one of the things he said in his message really stuck with me. "Learn the language." Something that I hear from students (and adults) is that the Bible is too hard to read...too confusing.

Jason gave the example of moving to Brazil. You're going to be totally lost at first when trying to communicate. You won't understand most street signs, you won't be able to tell what kinds of stores there are, and you won't be able to carry on a conversation with anyone!! But if you IMMERSE yourself in the culture...hang around the people, listen to conversations, explore places, get a dictionary to help you understand words, you will eventually begin to learn the language!

It is truly the same as understanding the Word of God. This book that is (in parts) thousands of years old is still able to impact people today! It's amazing - that's one of the reasons we know it's supernatural and from God. The words continue to come alive to people all over the world and transform who they are! I don't know of any other book that does that.

If you begin to immerse yourself in God's Word, it will make more and more sense every time you read it! You must learn the language!

Subject: Hi Dad (email forward)

2009-04-13T09:20:00.002-05:00

After living what I felt was a 'decent' life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table..

As I looked around I saw the 'prosecutor. 'He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen. I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him. The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes... He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room. I couldn't take my eyes off of Him. As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, 'Let us begin.' The prosecutor rose and said, 'My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell.'

He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and in the past when I cheated others. Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of every little sin, some that even I had completely forgotten about.

As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done? Satan finished with a fury and said, 'This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise.' When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward. As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty. I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.

He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, 'Hi, Dad,' and then He turned to address the court.' Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wages of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished.'

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, 'However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine.' My Lord continued with, 'His name is written in the Book of Life, and no one can snatch him from Me..Satan still does not understand yet. This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy.' As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, 'There is nothing else that needs to be done..''I've done it all.'

The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips..' This man is free. The penalty for him has already been paid in full. 'Case dismissed.'

As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, 'I won't give up, I will win the next one.' I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, 'Have you ever lost a case?' Christ lovingly smiled and said, 'Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you, ~Paid In Full~'

HAPPY EASTER

Story from Wednesday night

2009-04-09T14:51:00.002-05:00

AFTER A FEW OF THE USUAL SUNDAY EVENING HYMNS, THE CHURCH'S PASTOR SLOWLY STOOD UP,WALKED OVER TO THE PULPIT AND, BEFORE HE GAVE HIS SERMON FOR THE EVENING, HE BRIEFLY INTRODUCED A GUEST MINISTER WHO WAS IN THE SERVICE THAT EVENING.

IN THE INTRODUCTION, THE PASTOR TOLD THE CONGREGATION THAT THE GUEST MINISTER WAS ONE OF HIS DEAREST CHILDHOOD FRIENDS AND THAT HE WANTED HIM TO HAVE A FEW MOMENTS TO GREET THE CHURCH AND SHARE WHATEVER HE FELT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR THE SERVICE. WITH THAT, AN ELDERLY MAN STEPPED UP TO THE PULPIT AND BEGAN TO SPEAK.

'A FATHER, HIS SON, AND A FRIEND OF HIS SON WERE SAILING OFF THE PACIFIC COAST ,' HE BEGAN. 'WHEN A FAST APPROACHING STORM BLOCKED ANYATTEMPT TO GET BACK TO THE SHORE. THE WAVES WERE SO HIGH, THAT EVEN THOUGH THE FATHER WAS AN EXPERIENCED SAILOR, HE COULD NOT KEEP THE BOAT UPRIGHT AND THE THREE WERE SWEPT INTO THE OCEAN AS THE BOAT CAPSIZED.'

THE OLD MAN HESITATED FOR A MOMENT, MAKING EYE CONTACT WITH TWO TEENAGERS WHO WERE, FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE SERVICE BEGAN, LOOKING SOMEWHAT INTERESTED IN HIS STORY.

THE AGED MINISTER CONTINUED WITH HIS STORY, 'GRABBING A RESCUE LINE, THE FATHER HAD TO MAKE THE MOST EXCRUCIATING DECISION OF HIS LIFE: TO WHICH BOY WOULD HE THROW THE OTHER END OF THE LIFE LINE. HE ONLY HAD SECONDS TO MAKE THE DECISION. THE FATHER KNEW THAT HIS SON WAS A CHRISTIAN AND HE ALSO KNEW THAT HIS SON'S FRIEND WAS NOT. THE AGONY OF HIS DECISION COULD NOT BE MATCHED BY THE TORRENT OF WAVES. AS THE FATHER YELLED OUT, 'I LOVE YOU, SON!' HE THREW OUT THE LIFE LINE TO HIS SON'S FRIEND.

BY THE TIME THE FATHER HAD PULLED THE FRIEND BACK TO THE CAPSIZED BOAT, HIS SON HAD DISAPPEARED BENEATH THE RAGING SWELLS INTO THE BLACK OF NIGHT. HIS BODY WAS NEVER RECOVERED.

BY THIS TIME, THE TWO TEENAGERS WERE SITTING UP STRAIGHT IN THE PEW, ANXIOUSLY WAITING FOR THE NEXT WORDS TO COME OUT OF THE OLD MINISTER'S MOUTH. 'THE FATHER,' HE CONTINUED, 'KNEW HIS SON WOULD STEP INTO ETERNITY WITH JESUS AND HE COULD NOT BEAR THE THOUGHT OF HIS SON'S FRIEND STEPPING INTO AN ETERNITY WITHOUT JESUS. THEREFORE, HE SACRIFICED HIS SON TO SAVE THE SON'S FRIEND.

'HOW GREAT IS THE LOVE OF GOD THAT HE SHOULD DO THE SAME FOR US. OUR HEAVENLY FATHER SACRIFICED HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON THAT WE COULD BE SAVED. I URGE YOU TO ACCEPT HIS OFFER TO RESCUE YOU AND TAKE A HOLD OF THE LIFE LINE HE IS THROWING OUT TO YOU IN THIS SERVICE.'

WITH THAT, THE OLD MAN TURNED AND SAT BACK DOWN IN HIS CHAIR AS SILENCE FILLED THE ROOM. THE PASTOR AGAIN WALKED SLOWLY TO THE PULPIT AND DELIVERED A BRIEF SERMON WITH AN INVITATION AT THE END. HOWEVER, NO ONE RESPONDED TO THE APPEAL.

WITHIN MINUTES AFTER THE SERVICE ENDED, THE TWO TEENAGERS WERE AT THE OLD MAN'S SIDE. 'THAT WAS A NICE STORY,' POLITELY STATED ONE OF THEM, 'BUT I DON'T THINK IT WAS VERY REALISTIC FOR A FATHER TO GIVE UP HIS ONLY SON'S LIFE IN HOPES THAT THE OTHER BOY WOULD BECOME A CHRISTIAN.

'WELL, YOU'VE GOT A POINT THERE,' THE OLD MAN REPLIED, GLANCING DOWN AT HIS WORN BIBLE. A BIG SMILE BROADENED HIS NARROW FACE. HE ONCE AGAIN LOOKED UP AT THE BOYS AND SAID, 'IT SURE ISN'T VERY REALISTIC, IS IT? BUT,I'M STANDING HERE TODAY TO TELL YOU THAT STORY GIVES ME A GLIMPSE OF WHAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE FOR GOD TO GIVE UP HIS SON FOR ME.

YOU SEE...I WAS THAT FATHER AND YOUR PASTOR IS MY SON'S FRIEND.'

Ardent Variety Show

2009-04-08T10:59:00.002-05:00

I got a kick out of what our judges had to say about the variety show acts, so I thought I'd share some of them. :o)

Jordan & Heidi's River Dance

"Jordan needs to work it a bit more".
"Good form!"
"Lots of passion"
"They actually practiced! I liked his feet."

Briana & Bre's Cheertastic Moment

"Good effort"
"Good hair!"
"Speechless"
"Nice finish. I like how both their names started with B."

Emily's Poetic Prowess

"Original"
"Made me cry"
"Creative...good truth"
"Very genuine

Briana's Vocal Display - Dreamer

"How'd she get to be in this twice? Needs some more expression but sounds good"
"Good form. I like her socks"
"Sung a song. Red hair"
"Nice socks. Wore holey jeans"

Groovy Mystery Band

"Looks like a Jonas bro. Nice groove.
"Go Annette! Awesome"
"Family band never played together like this...Sweeeeeet"
"Very good. I liked it"

Aurum Arydium

"Took a long time to set up. Does anyone actually sing in this band? Good audience interaction."
"Good job w/getting audience! You really lassoed them in! =)"
"My face was rocked off. BOOM!"
"Good noise."

Ardent Youth Sponsor Practice in Filth and Humility

"You've inspired me to spend time to be beautiful."
"Comic relief"
"Hilarious"
"Need more chocolate"

Great job everyone! That was so fun - definitely should be an annual event!! :o)

Great Question!

2009-04-08T10:12:00.003-05:00

Okay I hope to hear more people weigh in on this...

Here's what I think. I haven't read the series so I can only go off of the reviews that I read and the people that I've talked to who just LOVE the books. There's one perspective that says the books are okay because there is absolutely no sex, swearing (one word in the second book actually), or real violence. Kudos to the author for writing something clean and entertaining!!

The subtle themes of the book are what bother me. You've all heard me talk about the issues of teens in romantic relationships. This book totally capitalizes on how girls just LOVE the romantic stuff. Edward is just perfect - except for the fact he's a vampire! He's self controlled and sweet and caring...but he's also obsessed with Bella. I read a blog that described it well..."a ridiculously handsome guy worships the ground she walks on and devotes his every waking moment to romancing her". What girl wouldn't swoon at that?? We love to read that stuff. Now get ready for it...THIS IS NOT REALITY! I'm pretty sure your parents don't want your wonderful, caring boyfriend sneaking in at night to sleep beside you - clothes on or not. Girls, we have to be very careful about not blurring the lines of reality and romance. True love is a wonderful gift and romance is a part of that...but obsession is dangerous and unhealthy.

The other subtle problem is the issue of vampires. While this is totally fantasy, it concerns me because the world makes darkness look so alluring and exciting. There are people who seek darkness...vampires, witchcraft, ouija boards, etc. That is like opening your front door and inviting the devil to come for supper, and then thinking his presence isn't going to change the atmosphere at all. You don't want him to live there, but just hang out sometimes. At some point, his presence in your life will begin to change you. I'm not saying that reading Twilight will mean you're going to hell. It's a fantasy book that is, by the usual Christian standards, clean. But these subtle themes that are built into the story do concern me. And since God is more important to me than any kind of entertainment, I do stay away from those things. Better safe than sorry, ya know?

What it boils down to is...what can you afford?

Is it wrong

2009-04-07T16:56:00.001-05:00

Is it wrong to read the book twilight? i hear it is a good book but it is about vampires and Anette has brought that up during church...i really like the comments about the book it is not like what it is about is going to make me go to the devil... but i don't if i should read the book?????????

Perfect Opportunity

2009-03-30T09:16:00.004-05:00

One of the hardest things to do as a young Christian is to share your faith. Especially with people at school who you're going to have to face every day AFTER that. What if they reject what you have to say? What if they roll their eyes and walk away? What if they tell some other people what you said? What if they laugh? What if...?

What if they listen quietly, then text you later with a simple "thank you"? What if they accept your invitation to church and respond to an altar call? What if they simply let you pray for them? What if they accept Christ and then tell others? What if...? You just saved a life!

Isn't that possibility worth the risk? High school doesn't last forever...hell does.

Here's your perfect opportunity. Say It Loud will be fun - low cost - meet new people - eat food - win prizes - and SOMEONE ELSE will be there to give an opportunity to hear about Jesus Christ! I know you're coming and I'm truly glad - it'll be a blast. But you just might be able to throw a friend a true "life preserver". Do you care enough to try?

2009-03-23T09:46:00.004-05:00

Hey everybody!!!

I'm getting excited...we're planning our little heads off to get ready for the lock-in. It's been several years since we've had one so we're definitely due!

The NCU Crew is coming. They're bringing a rockin' worship band, a drama team, some testimonies, and a speaker. They're also going to be the judges for the Ardent Variety Show!

Speaking of the Variety Show...be sure to sign up with Jordan Nilson if you've come up with an act. It can be comedy, music, poetry (we'll give you snaps), martial arts demonstration, or any other creative thing you can think of. :o) We're going to open the show to parents too, so THINK HARD and sign up quick!!

Be ready to Box 'n' Bounce...we're getting a huge inflatable to help us burn off some of that energy. We will have a full concession stand operating and all the proceeds go to our Overflow Challenge for STL!!

Remember - tickets for Ardent are $10 in advance ($12 at the door) - you can invite a friend and their ticket is only $5 but $10 at the door - so get them this week! We'll be selling tickets in the foyer on Wednesday night.

Highlights from Campus Missions Training

2009-03-21T16:12:00.002-05:00

We had Kent Hulbert here today - he's a Youth Alive Missionary. He was so great...I wish everyone could have heard it. But if you didn't, here are some of the notes that I got from what he said.

What is a Campus Missionary?

The attraction of how a life is lived can help people get closer to the point of receiving Christ. No matter where God places you…it’s a mission field. Are you dreaming of what God can do through your life? You have the opportunity to change someone’s life forever! If you just allow God to use you – He will FREAK you out by what He does!!

5 Habits of a CM:
Pray…
Pray daily. Even in the “smallest” moments…acknowledge that He’s listening. Take 30 seconds at your locker. Grab a couple other Christians – take 2 minutes to pray for your school. Jericho March – walk around your school and pray. James 5:16b

Live…
Live like Jesus. I John 2:7 This is the tough one. As you obey His Word, He will raise things up in your life to give you an opportunity to live for Him!

Tell…
Tell the truth. Be ready to give the reason for the hope that you have. I Peter 3:15 With GENTLENESS and RESPECT!

Serve…
Serve others. Matthew 20:27-28 It shows the love of Christ in a totally individual way. Start a campus club that finds ways to serve their community.

Give…
Give generously. I Corinthians 9:6-7 Not just money – time, talents, abilities. Personal sacrifice in order to reach out to others.

There are now 20,000 students who have committed to be CMs. We're working to double that number in two years – desire to reach 1,000,000 students!

We had about 6 more students sign up to be a Campus Missionary! I'm SO stoked about that. I've been praying about what we can do in the area of evangelism, and this is totally part of that answer. I will be giving an overview of what CMs are on Wednesday night...so stay tuned. I can help you get signed up too!

Turners List

2009-03-19T11:19:00.003-05:00

Since Theresa the Great is incredibly busy at work, I told her I would add her Overflow ideas list to the blog.

Sell discount cards
Sell candy (like they do at school)

It doesn't sound like there was much "serious" brainstorming in their group. And since Theresa is too busy to blog it, I get to add my twist. :o)

And if you know Eric Turner, you know that blogging wasn't even in his vocabulary until I forced it upon him. LOL So here's the list from his group...they were more productive than Theresa's.

Make tie dye shirts
Sell homemade keychains
Sell homemade jewelry

A few more STL ideas

2009-03-17T22:11:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone, I hope you have all prayed about your overflow challenge and have your ideas ready to give to Pastor Annette; but just in case you are still stumped here are a few ideas that our group came up with last week.

See if you parents/any relative will give you $ for each A or B you get on your report card
Offer to do extra household chores
Walk dogs
Spring is coming - so do yard work (mowing, raking, spring cleanup)
Give up a soda, energy drink, candy bar, coffee or whatever your daily personal treat and then put that money into STL.

Hope this helps. On with the challenge!!

Overflow Challenge

2009-03-14T21:13:00.003-05:00

It was so cool to hear the excitement as we talked about what we could do for this first 3-month Overflow challenge. We KNOW that God can do something awesome through our lives as we make some sacrifices to try to change the world! Here are some of the ideas that my smart group had...

Mobile car detailing - this is so cool...you go to the person's house and wash, wax, vacuum, and clean the interior of their car. I would TOTALLY pay for someone to come and do that!
STL Store - we talked about various things that people can make (duct tape wallets, fabric purses, baked goodies, pre-made scrapbooks, etc.). We could set up a STL Store every Missions Sunday AND at the lock-in April 3rd! Then the people who have items to sell would work the store.
Babysitting - give 1/2 to the Overflow challenge
House cleaning - same
Bake Sale - before/after Sunday service (once a quarter)
Slave Auction - auction yourself off to do whatever the owner needs
Marathon Relay Team - get people to sponsor every mile you run
Group Rummage Sale
Sell fresh produce from your garden

I was so impressed with the ideas that people had!! The sky is the limit! And what's really great about the Overflow Challenge is that it's in 3 month increments. So if you try something the first quarter and it doesn't go so well...change it up!

So try to nail down your idea so we can add it to the Challenge board on Wednesday! It's going to be awesome to see God work through our Overflow!

The Awesome Group

2009-03-12T13:49:00.004-05:00

My group came up with some interesting ideas to raise money for STL. Here they are in list form:

Run Marathon with Eric
Horse Riding Competitions, give part of winnings
Make Jewelry
Video Game Tournament (Halo most likely)
Make clothing
Garage Sale
Car Wash (WOO!!)
BBQ for church, profits to STL
Coin Drive
Selling arts and crafts at a booth at River Boat days
Concert

Those are the serious ideas that the Awesome Group came up with. Yay GOD!

Sunday

2009-03-02T14:02:00.002-06:00

I'm really enjoying this series on prophecy. And I appreciate the fact that Pastor is covering some history first. No offense guys...but a lot of you are pretty shaky on your Bible history. I noticed Sunday that "your row" was having a difficult time focusing. Sundays are NOT just for adults! If you want more spiritual maturity, you should definitely tune in to every message that is preached.

Pastor even made some specific references to young people! Did you hear it? He talked about how people can't be educated out of sinful behavior. In high schools all over the nation, they TEACH about irresponsible sexual behavior, but teenagers are still risking their lives with premarital sex! We can teach what Biblical standards are, but it's your choice to apply them to your lives. He also warned about becoming self righteous. It's fairly easy to do when it seems like the whole world around you is getting worse and worse. Be a light to your world. Let them admire you for having high standards!

Did anyone catch the mistake in Pastor's notes this week? I have a prize for you if you did!

Rock

2009-02-27T20:27:00.009-06:00

I was cleaning my room the other day and found a rock. But not any rock the rock I got at convention 2 years ago.and it made me sit and think why haven't I done anything why haven't I tried to take that rock and impact somebody or something like he said "Take your rock and Charge" it makes me think about speed the light and and all that's going to. and the kids in my school and how hard it is to get to know someone and bring them to church . I haven't figured how much I am giving to speed the light but I am taking my rock and charging and I have prayed about this for a while and my goal is to bring 5 people to church and to some people that may sound like not that many and some people think thats alot but it is my goal and I want to have at least two stay and come every wensdsay! and I want some of us to think about that rock that was suppose to impact out lives and think what can I do to help this youth Group!
Deuteronomy 9:15-18
15He led You thrugh the Vast and dreadful desert, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venemous snakes adn scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock. 16 He gave you manna to eat in the desert, something your fathers had never known, to humble and to test you so than in the end it might go well with you.17 You may say to yourself, " My Power and the strenght of my Hands have produced this wealth for me."18 But remember the lord your God for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth and so covenant, which he swore to your forefather, as it is to today.

Why?

2009-02-24T17:49:00.002-06:00

Why do we have wierd days where things dont go right? or we do somethign we regret! but lets say blowing up is not the answer. trust me. the other day I was having one of those days. well for instance I was in band and a cupple pple called me dirty names and usually I dont think anything of it and I usually dont care but after band I walked up 2 him and told him "I dont think its funny u called me names and u may think its funny cuz u put a "JK" after it but tht is not something 2 joke about" well and another guy walks up and goes "Bre quit being such a CHRISTIAN" well I was in a bad mood alrealy and so that didnt help but I said " who care if I am christian it has nothing 2 do with the fact of calling me names and what is so wrong with being a christian any way and if u want to insult me fine but plz do it later I am talking " and ewalked away but that the guy that called me names walked up 2 a friend of mine and goes
" dang she blows up dont she" and I was going 2 go off again but I walked away but 2 think about it I ws thinking of inviting hm to church wed and I was so mad at myself because I probabily ruined my chances or maybe not. butI no that was an obsticle I may not have won butI will remember that for next time. I no that was a thing from the devil trying 2 get me 2 ruin it but if it takes me a nother month 2 get him 2 church so be it...

Are you a dusty salt shaker?

2009-02-24T09:03:00.005-06:00

Recently I was praying for strength for students as they take a stand to do what's right in their school. That is truly the biggest battleground for most teenagers today. Think about it - they spend nearly 40 hours a week there! And the public school environment is generally pretty hostile to Christianity because everyone is worried about fitting in - and I think you'll agree that following Christ is NOT conducive to fitting in with the typical middle or high school crowd.

Matthew 5:13 says "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men." So I think this verse refers to the person who just loses their saltiness...they don't share the Gospel at all...their standards are no different than anyone else's...they simply hide their spirituality. But what about the person who keeps their salt bottled up in a salt shaker, sitting on the shelf? They're salty...they love God, they try to uphold Biblical standards for life (no drinking, sex, drugs, etc.)...but they get so worried about upholding their holy standards that they avoid anything (and anyone) secular. A salt shaker only works when you SHAKE IT and scatter the salt!

The "dusty salt shaker" Christian has good intentions and starts out with the right idea. They see in God's Word that He tells us to be "holy as I am holy". That's a tall order! But they forget that in John 17:14-15, Jesus is praying for His disciples and He says, "I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." Jesus never sinned - He was perfect...but He spent time with sinners whenever He possibly could! His salt shaker was constantly shaking - salt was flying everywhere! He knew they were lost and He always found a creative way to show them love so that they would be receptive to the Gospel.

God saved us by His grace - that's it. His instructions for holy living were ultimately intended to give us direction for how to live a life that is healthy, fulfilling, and most of all - a testimony to the world of how He has changed us! He did not intend for those things to paralyze you! We are in this world, but are not of it. It seems that sometimes Christians forget that we're still IN it! I am so proud when I see students making choices to avoid partying or sexual temptation...but I'm heartbroken when I see them looking down their noses at people who haven't gotten there yet. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul is telling us to stay away from evil and don't get into senseless debate wih people. He also goes on to say in verse 25, "Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will."

Those people who mock Christians and scoff at others who don't cuss or drink or cheat... they have believed a lie that, without rescue, will lead to an eternity of suffering. They are captive to that lie - a prisoner that needs to be set free! As believers, we hold the keys to that freedom! God gave us this gift...and He never intended for you to sit in your dusty salt shaker and criticize the people who are trapped by deception. Shake the dust off - allow the Holy Spirit to pick you up and pour you out so that those prisoners can be freed. The shaking can be painful and you do run the risk of being contaminated by those you're trying to reach. His grace will cover you, His Word will equip you, and His love will guide you. Just SHAKE!

About Love

2009-02-19T08:53:00.003-06:00

Well this is my first time blogging, so here it goes.
I know that so many of your lives have been affected in someway or another by divorce, and I am sorry. I am sure that when you hear the statistics of 50% of marriages end in divorce you may wonder why try. But I want to encourage you with a little testimony from 'my life'.
First some background, Keevin's parents were married over 45 years when his dad passed away; and my mom and dad celebrated 47 years together last fall. We are both thankful for these examples in our life.
Keevin and I will celebrate 25 years of marriage this May. One of the key bible verses that we started our marriage on is Ecclesiastes 3:12 (TLB) "A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." We were not two people getting married but we were three. We invited God to be that third strand. We wanted Him to be first in our marriage. We wanted His guidance in all we did and still do today. Does that mean the past 25 years has been a piece of cake - no; but, it has been good. And we look forward to the next 25.
Don't get me wrong I am not bragging in any means - I just want you to be encouraged.
I pray that in your search for that special someone that you will remember this bible verse 2 Corinthians 6:14 (TLB) "Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can goodness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?"

I've heard so much...

2009-02-17T14:27:00.002-06:00

I've heard SO many things over the last week that my brain can hardly digest it all. So here are the highlights...

I can't convince someone else that being extraordinary should be part of being a Christian. But if I live an extraordinary life for Christ...maybe they will see that and accept the challenge themselves! So where do I start?
Greatness and success are two very different things. One is Kingdom driven and one is self driven.
Everything that matters in this life begins with family.
Love and infatuation look remarkably similar...for a while. But time and trial will reveal what's true.
It is a sin to be good if God has called us to be great.

If I took time to elaborate on all these things now, I'd never get anything else done. So let those tidbits intrigue you for a while.

I can't wait to hear from STUDENTS on this blog! Who will be first???

Fine Arts and Sunday

2009-02-15T12:03:00.004-06:00

So, yesterday was the Fine Arts Festival/Spring Convention for the state of South Dakota. I would first like to say that Yankton kicked butt! Hunter's guitar solo got a Superior with Invitational and so did a drawing by Heidi! Emily's poem, Alisha's poem, Taylor's drawing, Payton's song, Hunter and Heidi's duet, Heidi's song, Bre and Briana's rap, and Bre's photo all got a Superior rating! Way to go Yankton!! We rock. Also Bre's drawing got an excellent...nice effort Bre! I know we will be bringing a bunch more things to Fine Arts next year. As I was sitting in Sioux Falls' youth room watching human videos, I just felt so jumbled up inside. I really wanted to bring a human video and a some drama's to FAF, but everyone knows that in the time we had to get ready, we could not have brought anything of real quality and I am not going to bring something there unless it is ready.

Also, there was worshiping and a great message about giving by Pastor Mark Entzminger. The praise and worship was so amazing! Everyone was jumping all around and raising there hands and giving praise to God. It was one of the funnest times I have ever had worshiping God in my life! I really feel bad for anyone who missed it, but that just means that you should all come up with us next year!

Pastor Mark's message was about doing something extraordinary and radical for Speed the Light. Pastor Mark and his wife are giving up all the money they were saving for a new car. Sacrifice. I am giving up 25% of whatever I make to Speed the Light this year. Sacrifice. Pastor Annette is doing something amazing that is a strain on her body. Sacrifice. What are you willing to sacrifice to further the kingdom of God? Is the glory of God and salvation not worth an extra hour of work or giving up your allowance for a month and just giving that to Speed the Light?

On to Pastor Randy's sermon today. He talked about family's and loving your children but there is something huge in there that I hope that you guys picked up on. He talked about the Columbine shootings and how one of the boys, Dylan i think, was reaching out. He went to a youth group at a church and was a quiet and shy person. He did not talk to anyone and no one talked to him and, according to his journal, this made him feel even more rejected than he was already feeling. Guys, he did not ask for anyone to help him, he did not jump up in the middle of service and scream, "I need help! Can you guys help me!" That is not the way it happens in the world. When someone comes to youth group, great them. Ask them how there doing, get to know them. Just those simple greetings can mean the world to someone and I'm talking from experience here.

Well, that's all I have for today. Until I think of something else to blog about...

What is Love?

2009-02-13T08:38:00.006-06:00

Just as Jordan I have never blogged before but I thought it's an interesting concept so I'll give it a go. I'm still amazed that after 14 years of marriage that I can still learn something about love that I didn't quite grasp before. I certainly did not hear the points about love verses infatuation until I became a Christian 6 years ago and heard it during a sermon. I did not grow up in a household where I had the security of a loving father and this completely shaped how I tried to gain love from the opposite sex. I truly felt as if I were on my own trying to figure out how a dating relationship was supposed to look like. Yeah, my mom was around but I had no idea how to talk with her about boys and unfortunately she did not take the time to try to explain what "healthy" dating was all about.

One of the points that Pastor Annette (PR) pointed out Wednesday night on the difference between love and infatuation was the "time" factor. I completely believed as a teenage girl that I knew everything about my boyfriend in like a 3-5 day span and that I was going to spend the rest of my life with this boy. And then when he was a jerk to me two weeks later I was completey surprised that I hadn't seen this flaw in him before and hated myself for giving my heart away. Well I promised myself that the next guy would be different, and he was, but the problem was that I wasn't different. I kept believing that I could really know a person and trust him with my heart within just a week or two. So thus I begain a crazy cycle of short-term dating expecting long-term results. I felt so alone but I was just so sure that if I could get enough love from the right guy that everything would be wonderful and I wouldn't feel like such a LOSER.

I could go on and on about all the mistakes I made, but what really counts is that I survived all those past mistakes because I finally found the real "love" of my life. Yes, it's God, Eric is great too, but God healed my heart, no human person can do that for us. And all of this took time, even my relationship with Christ takes time. I need to spend time talking with Him and reading the letters He has left for me to remind me of His love (this would be the bible, just in case you were wondering). Any healthy and worthy relationship takes time, whether it be a friendship, a dating relationship, or a co-worker. I look forward to next Wednesday night when we can hear more about love and I want to encourage you to take full advantage of this time. Because if you were a confused teenager like I was or don't know who to talk to about this subject, you are in the position to hear the real truth about what love is and not what this world tries to convince us it's all about. Until then have a great week and I pray that God's love will be revealed to you more and more.

What is Love?

2009-02-12T18:12:00.006-06:00

I'm going to lay some truth down on you guys right away here; this is the first time I have ever blogged and I really do not know what I am going to write, so I think I'm just going to ramble on about the message last night and hopefully that is sufficient. It was a great message last night if you did not get a chance to hear it. Pastor Annette talked about love and infatuation; all differences and confusing signs they like to throw at us.

From what I understand, love and infatuation are NOT the same thing. That is a very important thing to remember. If anything, that is what the message was of the message. DO NOT get these two confused or your love life is going to be very miserable and disappointing. PR gave us some great verses on the subject, 1st Corinthians 13:1-4. Did you know that 1st Corinthians 13 is known as the love chapter? Well, you would have if you were listening last night, because PR said it. Burn.

My experience in love is very minimal, outside my family. I have not been on a date since 8th grade and that is by choice. PR said that studies show that teens that grew up in a loving home tend to feel the need to date less in high school and that is very true for me. Also, I was pretty geekish and shy my first two years in high school and when I finally got comfortable enough with the other teens in my school to actually start dating we upped and moved to Yankton and I just clammed up for my last year in high school. But that is the thing about love. If we do not have it, we will spend all of our energy and go through self destrution to get it. I feel love everyday of my life with my family and the friends that I did not have the want to go and have a girlfriend in high school. Thats changed now....moving on

That is what i got out of the message last night. It isn't anything earth shattering or incredibly enlightening but it really helped me out with some feelings that I had been having. Hope you all got something from it but if you didn't...theres always next week. We are talking about love again!!! Aree you as excitied as I am for those wonderfully akward discussions...ahh *exhale*

God Shaped Hole

2009-02-11T14:07:00.005-06:00

Last Wednesday I talked about the idea of the God Shaped Hole. Eric Timm has a painting called "Black and White Issues" that perfectly illustrates this concept. God has created us with eternity in our hearts. There's a space that only He can fill.

When I asked you to think about the things that sometimes try to crowd into God's space in your heart, here's what you said...

My friends
Time online
Popularity
Band/Music
Dating
What people think of me
Plans for my future
Showing people up
Sports
Basketball
Cheerleading
Alcohol/drugs/partying
School/getting perfect grades
Trying to fit in
Fashion
Being too up front
Wanting to be noticed
Reading anything but the Bible
Video Games
Filling other people's expectations of me
Money
Pain/depression
Family
Drama/acting
Watching TV
Gossip
Food
Dance
Cell phone/texting

There were a lot of repeats throughout your lists. That shows you that you have way more in common than you may realize. Many of you had a difficult time coming up with ideas to make sure that those things DON'T take God's place in your life. Maybe if we had more time, you could have come up with more, but here are a few that were mentioned that were really good...

"I think I should do these things to GLORIFY GOD, but not to replace Him."

"Read my Bible, talk to my parents more, think about GOOD things."

"Don't listen to music that I know is bad for me."

"Trust that God wants to handle the pain."

"Remember that when my life is all over, none of these things are going to matter."

"Try to focus and hear what God wants for my life."

"Humble mysef more in front of my friends."

"Keep my friends close, but don't center my life around them."

Keeping God number ONE is a constant struggle that you will have to deal with through your whole life. Our human nature wants to be selfish and will never give up in that struggle! So make sure that you're doing whatever it takes to stay in touch with God. If you stick close to Him, He will speak to you when those things try to creep back in. He will also bless you in those areas that you mentioned that aren't necessarily bad (ex: sports, friends, school). He wants you to succeed! But there is nothing in your life that can ever be as important as your relationship with Him.

Father, open our eyes so that we can see You for who You really are...see ourselves as we truly are...and see the way to becoming who You've called us to be.

Welcome

2009-02-09T14:16:00.002-06:00

Well hello fellow bloggers! If this is a new experience for you, congrats! I think you'll enjoy it! The description sums up the purpose of this blog so I won't repeat it. I look forward to your insights and I hope that we can all gain a deeper understanding of God's Word and the importance of being intentional about applying it to our lives.