How People Develop Spiritual Growth Habits

Proverbs 4 (A Father's Wise Instruction)

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=prov%204&version=47



I reccommend print out Mark's blog and read. This is very impotant for our spiritual growth.

http://marklowenstein.blogspot.com/2006/08/how-people-develop-spiritual-growth.html#comments

Reflect Jesus

1 Timothy 4:15-16
15Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

WWJD = What Would Jesus Do

On flip side

DJWW = Devil Just Won’t Win

For Christians, young or old, we keep analyzing how we talk, act, walk like Jesus. Why do we need to do this? Because there are people either in\outside Church who are either new Christians, un-churched people, and spiritual seekers that are watching us. When a Christian stumbles, this person who is watching will be confused. He\She would say “hey, I thought you were a Christian?” something like that. This poem below that I got from Lee Strobel’s “God’s Outrageous Claims” book is very heartening. This person who wrote this poem, was seeking God at the time. But she was confused by actions of so-called Christians around her.

I don’t understand the caring I’ve received. I don’t understand that the leaders don’t seem afraid of questions. They don’t say things like “You just have to have faith” or “You need pray more”. They don’t seem to be afraid to tell who they are. They seem genuine.

(Lee) This Young woman ended her letter with beautiful poem she had written. It contains the heart felt sentiments of a spiritual seeker toward those of us who are Christians. Read these words carefully, and as you do, imagining that this precious person is speaking directly to you. Because she is.

Do you know
do you understand
That you represent
Jesus to me?

Do you know
do you understand
that when you treat me with gentleness,
It raises the question in my mind
that maybe He is gentle, too.
Maybe He isn’t someone
who laughs when I am hurt.

Do you know
do you understand
that when you listen to my questions
and you don’t laugh,
I think, “What if Jesus is interested in me, too?”

Do you know
do you understand
that when I hear you talk about arguments
and conflict and scars from your past,
I think, “Maybe I am just a regular person
instead of a bad, no-good little girl
Who deserves abuse.”

If you care,
I think maybe He cares—
and then there’s this flame of hope
that burns inside of me
and for a while
I am afraid to breathe
because it might go out.

Do you know
do you understand
that your words are His words?
Your face, His face
to someone like me?

Please, be who you say you are.
Please, God, don’t let this be another trick.
Please let this be real.
Please.

Do you know
do understand
that you represent Jesus to me?
(God’s Outrageous Claims – Lee Strobel, pg84-86)

Christians, we are not perfect, but as a family of God, open to each other. Always ask for feedback how to improve, or if there is anything you need to repent, change, be more like Jesus.

Lord,

Sometime we need to have a piercing application like this poem. This is a rude awakening for us. Help us to become more like Jesus. In Your precious name Amen.

The Parable of the Sower

Luke 8:1-15 & Isaiah 6:9

http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=Luke+8%3A1-15%2C+Isaiah+6%3A9&version1=31

This passage describes how when we mention word of God, Testimony, bible passage, or anything related to the Gospel is considered the seed. Depending on heart of the person, which describes the condition of the dirt\ground.

Opportunity knocks!

Last night my wife and I went to see hearing friend of mine who is hospital for blood clot in result from knee surgery. My friend had a motorcycle accident few weeks ago, and last Monday he finally had surgery on his knee. The way I look at it, his life was rescued twice. I reminded him of that. He decided not to replace his bike. He is giving up on it. I said to him Lord is giving you a clue to don’t even try again. There may not be a next time. I gave my friend book “Case of the Creator” by Lee Strobel. He likes sci-fi Christian novels. This book will answer to a lot of his question about science vs. God.

My friend was feeling down due to medication so he SMS me last night when I got home. He asked me few questions about verses and stuff I have been telling him about plus he thanked the Lord for sparing his life. Last week the medication made him very depressed and wanted to die. Then at that moment I recall I have never asked him this question. I knew he believed in God but what is his status? So I asked him question: Do you consider yourself saved\Christian. If so, when?” He said, “When I was young I accepted Christ, I may need to do it again”. So this tells me he used to be Christian.

I took time to explain several verses to some of his questions related to the bible. Then I made the opportunity right time to discuss the parable of sower. Surprisingly, he did not know this Parable. Then he asked me there should be balance good and evil. Since I know how his mind works because he plays sci-fi video games and books he reads, I took time to discuss the bible with him. I explained there are 2 choices, Obey or not to Obey. There is one path to Highway to Hell and other a rocky path to Heaven. My friend was feeling really down. So I prayed with him in the SMS. So I leave it with that.

Here is a thought for us all Men, If a person outside the church see that I talked to my friend in this way, they would think I was mean or out of line. Believe me, even though it hurts me to tell him the Truth I had to. My friend said Truth hurts. I said yep.

Lord,

Thank you for connecting me to this person who needs our prayers and support. This is greatest opportunity there is when a person hits rock bottom and his heart is clear and soft like the parable of the sower. Lord as I have planted the seed, please guide this person to way to salvation. Thank you for giving me opportunity to share with the Men of DBOB, Your Son’s sweetest Name, Amen.

Satan, bounce off our Band!

2 Corinthians 12:7-10(CEV)

7Of course, I am now referring to the wonderful things I saw. One of Satan's angels was sent to make me suffer terribly, so that I would not feel too proud. 8Three times I begged the Lord to make this suffering go away. 9But he replied, "My kindness (grace) is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So if Christ keeps giving me his power, I will gladly brag about how weak I am. 10Yes, I am glad to be weak or insulted or mistreated or to have troubles and sufferings, if it is for Christ. Because when I am weak, I am strong.

Interesting to see how I was not much of daily bible or book reader or praying regularly to now an advent reader more than EVER. I’m speaking out more, praying more, very involved, motivating others, and a loud extrovert! As leader in ministry, I do not see myself a person with an Office, Label, or a Position. I am just merely a disciple of Christ. Being a Christian is not perfect in flesh but perfect in Christ is our goal. Romans 3:10 ¹⁰As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: (KJV)

Lately I have been expressing many different testimonies and little about myself. Dudes, I believe a person who does not express about their past\present struggles and how they overcome or still struggling, then I assume this person is perfect? NOPE. Would be great to see you all share your struggles so we all learn from each other. Come on men, new and old Christians, deaf or hearing, we all have struggles. As we see Paul’s (2 Corinthians) statement he asked Lord to remove this Physical Thorn he is experiencing, but Lord says his Grace is sufficient. Wow what a verse. He is an inspiration to me to keep going when tough keeps going.

Let me share my struggle recently. Last year I learned about my issue that I did not see myself. I had issued with disrespectful judgment towards people sometime, especially my wife. One brother in Christ brought up this issue to me. I am so happy he did. If he didn’t, hey I would be typing this Blog with a big log in my eye ha (Matthew 7). Last night I was putting my wife down constantly because I was trying to repair computer and it was getting late for my son. But not knowing my wife was exhausted due to nursing our son (normal). I gave up the computer stuff took our son to bed and went sleep. This morning as driving to work, I felt a heavy load on my heart not sure why. Then sitting at the computer logging on at work, then I said Lord forgive me for putting pressure on my wife. I felt bad about that, but then my wife forgives me for this issue. I said to my self I hate this thorn, then that gave me Light Bulb for that story from Paul with his thorn.

Lord,

Forgive us for our weakness for what ever they are, but I hope we all can learn from them and have confidence to share them. This is good because we can reinforce each other and with the Spiritual Church becomes stronger. Hear our prayer Lord, and build this Deaf Band of Brothers together stronger so Satan will bounce off our Band. Amen!

Open up Men

Galatians 6:2:
²Share each other's troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ. (NLT)

Today I was reading Acts 8:26-40, this is about Philip and the Ethiopian. Click on the link to the verse:

http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=act+8%3A26-40&version1=31

Testimony:
There was once a great wonderful man who was minister of the gospel. He was known by many deaf in USA. He would be at every Deaf National Workshops. He was preacher in Northern part of USA. But then one day he stumbled across some verses and a book he thought that conflict with The Church of Christ, so he resigned as preacher, and had a bitter conflict with the local church. Actually the elders forced him to resign because he was teaching deaf something outside the bible. He also was reading and using different book. He and family moved to another state and joined this Cult. This church that he left, many deaf members were in despair. Few years later, My wife and I went to National Workshop in Ohio. There were alot of those members from broken church happen to be there. They came to me and were complaining they missed this minister. This was heart breaking because its been more than 2 years and they were still depressed?

I felt Holy Spirit compelled me to speak up. I asked one of the coordinator if I could speak during the service. I spoke about Acts 8:26-40. This is a good passage about how Ethiopian rejoice in his salvation. But noticed Philip disappeared and yet the Eunich still rejoiced. I rebuked anyone who is in despair because minister has left the church. I said that once a person has the Good News what do you do with it? Yes for time we may be depressed that leader has left, but hey, you have the bible. You have salvation, be rejoceful. Continue with deaf ministry anyway. In Time Lord will answer your call.

What lead me to this passage, because there are times we have brothers and sister leaving our family of God going to another family of God because matter of "1 little grain of sand" such as doctrinal conflicts what he\she thinks is a big thing. Have you all heard of book called "Don't sweat the small stuff"? There was a book years ago on this issue. So true. Devil loves to make a little thing blown up like dough that rises (yeast). I do have some concerns to some doctrinal issues, but hey, does that Mean I am right, ME ME ME? I leave this to the Lord. If Holy Spirit complells me to challenge with meekness I will. But I don't feel its is a big thing then I let it go! What matters, we have brothers and sisters who act like CHRIST! Thats what we need to do. I really like verse Mark brought up yeaterday Galatians 6:2. We need to be open, this is only way we can learn from those who are Matured in Christ! Let you know there will be times when your mind may not be straight for number of reasons. Maybe because of working over time, negative thoughts enter your mind, then all sudden this little "grain of sand" you thought may be a big thing because a huge conflict and this can tear family of God. This is where prayer comes into play, and meekness.

Lord,
Forgive us humans! We have many things happening in our lives today, sometime stress is a big factor in our daily schedule. Soemtime we don't make room for You. Lord you should come first in our life. Unfortuntely that sometime we put others above You and this is where Devil prowls on. Please help us Men to focus on you more. Weed out this obstacle. Open our heart to each men here DBOB. We need to Speak up. This is only way we can grow in Christ. You are an Awsome God, Amen!

Laughter is the best icebreaker

1 Timothy 2:3-4 (NIV)
This is good, and pleases God our Savior,
who wants all men to be saved and to
come to a knowledge of the truth.


















http://www.reverendfun.com/index.php?date=20040416


Lord,

Thank you for enabling us for laughter and break the ice for this DBOB. Jesus' name Amen.

Jolt our emotions for the Glory for God

Romans 1:20: From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God. (NLT)

This is interesting, when I read some of verses that really strike my interest. Have you ever come across verse that your heart starts racing, and many ideas come, role-play verses to someone or just keeps thinking of different scenarios in your mind for days. I come across verse Romans 1:20 which really hits my emotions. I just do not get it when people reject the idea of God and His creation. God is displaying his existence in everything - nature and people. I see the technology and travel today that makes the knowledge that God existence more wide spread. The thought comes to my mind that the world may end at any time. I read a funny clip during Society class at my high school showing news lady announcing the world will blow up 10pm, news at 11. Does this get your emotions rowdy eh?

Here is another verse that may get your emotions into gear but it certainly does with mine: Luke 3:22: and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." Have anyone heard of commercial by EF Hutton? This commercial was run in 80’s. But they had a funny commercial shows how people reacted to voice of this guy saying “When EF Hutton speaks, people listen” then whole crowd of people run toward sound and hold their ear toward the sound and pause. This is neat, same how we ought to react when reading these verses. But I really like Luke 3:22, imagine God speaking from the clouds and we hear his gentle voice we out to give Lord our undivided attention. When I see verses I give Him my undivided attention. James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.(NIV)

Thank you Lord for giving us emotions so we can analyze what we need to do to obey you instead of just listen to preachers, message and do nothing, Amen

Wake up call for Christians

Romans 10:15 And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (NIV)

Resource of the day:

The Way Of The Master
"Seek and save the lost the way Jesus did"
http://www.wayofthemaster.com

People are out there evangelizing like they have never done before. I am sharing this reference site to let you know how much of inspiration this site brings me to evangelize to both hearing and deaf. Matthew 9:37 Then He said to His disciples, The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (NASB). LivingWaters has 100 Q\A tools you can use when discussing gospel with people http://www.livingwaters.com/witnessingtool/browse.shtml. Way of the Master has their mission statement plus comments from other Christian leaders. It’s awesome. Read below I extracted from the Way of the Master’s website:

Our Mission and Statement of Faith

150,000 people die every 24 hours—most without the Savior. We are deeply concerned that so few Christians reach out to the lost. Statistics show that this is as low as 5%. One of the reasons for this is that many don’t feel equipped. As a ministry, our sole purpose is to inspire and equip Christians—to teach them how to share the gospel simply, effectively, biblically . . . the way Jesus did. “The Way of the Master” is non-denominational. We believe and preach that the Bible is the Word of God, and that Jesus Christ is God manifest in the flesh, crucified for the sin of the world, and that He rose again on the third day. We believe and teach that salvation is by grace, through faith, and not of works.

Comments from Christian Leaders:

"Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort present a timely and gripping series giving passion to the Church and feet to the Gospel. This is truly a 'Wake Up Call' to every Christian to come to terms with his or her mission in this world. This is very well done and wonderfully captures both the classic approach and the contemporary draw to the Reality shows…[it] maintains the integrity of the message while capturing the relevance of the application."

--Ravi Zacharias

"Thanks to Kirk and Ray for seeking to motivate believers to fulfill the Great Commission, and for staying true to the biblical message of repentance from sin and forgiveness in Christ."

--John MacArthur

"The Way of the Master is a fresh new television program that grabs your attention from the opening scene and sustains it throughout the entire program. The interviews with people on the street are a vivid revelation of the terrible need people have for the Christ of the Gospel. I was encouraged and motivated, and you will be too."

--David Jeremiah

Be in Jonah's shoes

Jonah 2:1-2

Jonah's Prayer

¹ From inside the fish Jonah

prayed to the LORD his God.

² He said: "In my distress I

called to the LORD, and he

answered me. From the

depths of the grave I called

for help, and you listened to

my cry.

You think that after a crazy ordeal you went through, think again you get a taste for more. Compare yourself with Jonah’s cartoon. Funny. The book of Jonah is interesting. Jonah struggled to fight his strong will attitude towards God as he refused to preach to this town Nineveh. How can we learn from this? Well I know for fact this has happen sometimes when a Christian is encouraged to participate in a ministry or setup ministry but then fails. Something happens in the person’s life that causes ministry to fail. Some really good ministry eventually gets Black Balled! Mark at a time he tried to add more tasks to his plate to keep the important ministries alive. Over time the ministry dissolves due to Mark nearly getting burnt out. Mark now leaves that to the Lord for now on. I don’t blame him. I had participated in few and helped to setup a few but where are they now?

Jonah tried to escape from God and during time he was in stormy sea and he was trapped. Then he finally realizes that God s calling him. God has been trying to show him he really needed him no matter what Jonah thinks of people in Nineveh. What will it take for us Men to respond to Lord's calling? We are afraid to know what ahead of us? There will be good times and hard times believe me: Psalms 46:10 "Be silent, and know that I am God!

I am reading bible, praying, and involving different ministry as much as I can. This is the mission that I have dedicated myself to. Instead I could give up my job and take my family to another country for missionary but God has molded me to be part of the Deaf Ministry for the WMA. So here I will stay. For each person the calling will be different. Mark gave his life to study and train to minister. Now he is training us. This is a rarity for this kind of ministry. There are many areas where God needs us, but we have too many obligations that conflict with God's plan. We will need to shift gears and reprioritize. It will of course, take us out of comfort zone into a rocky zone. But after period of time, we will get used to it.

Lord,

I am so amazed that you have fired us up to set this DBOB and open the eyes of our heart Lord. I know for sure you will transform us into what you want us to become for your Glory, in Jesus’ Name Amen.

August 24 : Litmin.org

Evangelism: Unconvincing Testimony

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
--Acts 4:20

There is a large amount of ineffective Christian testimony among us today. Much of it is well-intended, I am sure--honest and sincere. We do the best we can with what we have. But our performance turns out to be something like that of the salesman promoting fountain pens. He tries to make a case for his product, but his would-be customers know he really thinks ballpoints are far more practical.

Too much of our Christian witnessing is unconvincing because we have not been convinced. We are ineffectual because we have not yet capitulated to the Lord from glory. It is like the proselyte making proselytes....

Perhaps this is happening because we are trying to plan how everything should happen. Everyone of us reads a little how-to book on witnessing. We try to do it the way we have been taught. But it is perfunctory and without any contagious element. If angels can weep, they must weep salty tears upon seeing a proselyte who has never really met the Lord making another proselyte who will also never meet the Lord.
Faith Beyond Reason, pp. 101-102

"Out of the abundance of a heart filled with love for You let me speak today. Let me see You this morning in a way that will cause me to leave this prayer time with a renewed passion to minister. Amen."

To be Zealous or not to be Zealous

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NLT)

There is a time for everything,

a season for every activity under heaven.

A time to be born and a time to die.

A time to plant and a time to harvest.

A time to kill and a time to heal.

A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.

A time to cry and a time to laugh.

A time to grieve and a time to dance.

A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.

A time to embrace and a time to turn away.

A time to search and a time to lose.

A time to keep and a time to throw away.

A time to tear and a time to mend.

A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.

A time to love and a time to hate.

A time for war and a time for peace.

What do Elijah, John the Baptist, and Apostle James & John has in common? They were very zealous. But they were not perfect but still learning during their time. They would be very zealous but at times they may have tried to go overboard. In Luke 9:51-56 describes time James & John the apostles wanted to have Jesus set fire to village of Samaritan (imitate the day of Elijah) for refusing to believe the gospel. But Jesus rebuked them that wanted to save them not destroy them. Then later in Acts 8:5-8, we find Philip preached to the same village and marvelous thing happened. You can read it for yourself.

I was reading “12 Ordinary men” book by John McArthur, about Apostle James & John. Jesus gave them nickname “Boanerges” which means “Sons of Thunder”. Mark 3:17: James and John (the sons of Zebedee, but Jesus nicknamed them "Sons of Thunder". This passion and zeal they had is in the right heart in Village of Samaritan, but question how to apply it.

In page 79 of this book John writes, “If there is a key word that applies to life of the apostle James, the word is passion. From little we know about him, it is obvious that he was a man of intense fervor and intensity. In fact, Jesus gave James and John a nickname: Boanerges---“Sons of Thunder.” That defines James’s personality in very vivid terms. He was zealous, thunderous, passionate, and fervent."

We can be zealous for the Lord but there may be time we are over zealous. We can be zealous, thunderous, passionate, and fervent but harnessed and tempered with love. As today's blog title says when to be zealous or not to be zealous, Guys now is the time to be Zealous for the Lord with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Lastly, John McArthur mention in page 93, “The Son of Thunder had been mentioned y Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and shaped by those means into a man whose zeal and ambition were useful instruments in the hands of God for spreading of the kingdom. Still courageous, zealous, and committed to the truth, he had apparently learned to use those qualities for the Lord’s service, rather than for his own self-aggrandizement."

Lord,

Give us men this zealous, thunderous, passionate, and fervent motivation to imitate the “Sons of Thunder”, for Your service, Amen.

Prayer Life

"In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God." Romans 8:26-27 (niv).

This is based on my experience and what I have read. I don't expect everyone to imitate my experience or what I have read. This can give you a push into right direction. The prayer life will grow in your life. Everyone's prayer life will be different. Just listen to Holy Spirit, and God's words from bible. Some days the prayers may be dry and you give up. Don’t! Prayer life may not meet our (mind set) expectation. The continuous flow of communication from you to Lord is important. This book “Spiritual Guide” by Micahel Mellinos, was banned in 1500’s because at the time, Catholics dislike the way he wrote. But he reminded readers that this is the communication between him and God. He describes the different levels of prayers. I will not go into details. If you are interested in this book get with me and I can send you link to order this book. This is not available on Amazon but different a site.

My challenge to all the men, who is either going or not going to DBOB, is for us to practice this meditation. I have not done this for a while, but I feel that its good challenge for all of us. Find a time during week either on Saturday or evening and dedicate yourself 1 to 2 hours. But this must not be planned event. We have mindset that tends to stick to our own plans. Find a moment when you want to have delicious desert, your favorite TV show you cannot miss, video Games, favorite event or a tempting situation and STOP, take advantage of this fast!

Remember this challenge. Go to a quiet room close your eyes and just picture what God has done for you in all the years and what have you done for Lord? Have we really talked to him? We talk to him like we talk to our earthly father/mother? He needs our undivided attention. We challenge ourselves to meditate and pray for many issues that need to be addressed such as health, ministry, church, deaf souls, many other request, and just sit there and talk to him. Tell Him for example, "Oh Lord, what do you want me to do? Guide me. Grant me your wisdom and guidance. Motivate me, teach me your words, and give me confidence to spread word, discover my gifts". This is just an example. I did this one for 30 minutes and I was sweating. Whoa! I didn't know. I just felt like I was somewhere in different place like a trance or something. Once I was done praying and meditating, then I see I was back in dining room and I was all by myself no distractions. That’s the prayer life experience. I did this meditation this last spring. Meditation is key. I don’t everyone will have this kind of prayer everyday or during DBOB. This is between each person and God. If we all do this, Lord will do great things with this Deaf Ministry, believe me! Do not hesitate.

Prayer:

"Lord, I am amazed how I was tying these words, this just comes out. I know for fact You are with us. It is not my desire just for these men (both hearing and deaf), but the entire world. My heart desire is for every soul. Those who read this blog, Lord, I pray that they are not intimidated by an unusual blog. But we need this special time for us to stop and think, then push ourselves out of our own comfort zone and commune with you. In Jesus' Name, AMEN!"

DBOB Lessons

Here are the EXCITING lessons for the September 15 through 17 Deaf Men's Retreat!!

Speaker: C L A S S I F I E D

Friday PM:
“Only One Way: Jesus Focus”

I Timothy 2:5, “There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”

Saturday AM:
“The Blood-Stained Dog Tag”

Based on the Book of Ephesians 4 & 5

Saturday Mid-Afternoon:
“Two Are Better Than One: David & Jonathan”

Ephesians 4:9-10a, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up.”

Saturday PM:
“No Matter the Cost” (Courage, Humility, & Unity)

Based on the Book of Luke 14:25-34

Sunday AM: Class Discussion
“Jesus & You: Someone is Praying”

Based on the Book of John 17

Sunday AM: Worship
“Collected Emptiness”

Nehemiah 8:10, “…Go home and prepare a feast, holiday food and drink; and share it with those who don’t have anything: This day is holy to God. Don’t feel bad. The joy of God is your strength!”

Run, Follow & Pursue

[From the 8-14-06 post]

2 Tim 2:22 (NLT) "Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. Follow anything that makes you want to do right. Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts."

Isn't this a great verse for us men!! This gives us guidance to filter out wrong actions, wrong attitudes, wrong thoughts, wrong intentions and filter in what is right. Among us Christians, It is good to learn from each other and take our advice and encouragement. We don’t have to rely on Mark all the time. There are plenty of men who are "Real Men of Faith." It doesn't mean that the "men" are perfect, but it is their testimonies and experiences they share can give us positive criteria for making a decision on which path we choose to take. Listen to your heart "MEN." Jeremiah did not write 29:13 for nothing:

Jeremiah 29:13 "And ye shall seek Me and find Me when ye shall search for Me with all your heart." (NKJV)

Prayer:
"Lord, Thank you for giving us the boost to get this D.B.O.B. off the ground. I believe you will empower us with your spirit and guide us how to become better Christians. In Jesus' name, Amen!"

Motivation from the 8-15-06 post

Isaiah 6:8: "Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."

Few years ago, I was struggling and resisting the Holy Spirit in me. Mark had asked me if I could preach in his place sometime or teach bible class and I said I couldn't do it. I told him I am not "teaching material." This is parallel with Moses’ trying to give God his excuses so he wouldn't be the one to go to Egypt to free God's people. During this time, the Holy Spirit kept on nudging me to take the opportunity to teach but I continued to resist. Meanwhile, I was reading verses relating to baptism. Though I had always thought I was baptized for right reason and I believed in Jesus, but I felt like my life as Christian was at a standstill. I studied and prayed searching for answers. I decided to analyze how my life was after my conversion in 1987.

Result of my conversion 1987: I was baptized when I was 17. I remembered I asked a lot of biblical questions. But it seems that I did not truly understand the real meaning of commitment and my commitment to God. My grandfather was a great man. He was involved with World Bible School (WBS). He wrote to approximately 1000 African students studying the Scriptures every month. I had a great influence from my family and majority of my family are Christians. But a few years after my conversion, I slowly strayed from the walk with Jesus. I see that I was not committed to Jesus Christ for the right reason.

Then 3 years after Fairfax hired Mark, this was exciting for Robin and me. We needed a deaf leader we could look up to. Also since I am CODA (Child raised from Deaf family) many of biblical reading in past started to make sense and fit together like puzzle. I understood that I needed to repent. Even though I repented shortly after that, I continue to run into brick wall every now and then while reading the Scriptures.

For example: (KJV) Matthew 28:18-20: "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."

The Holy Spirit has been working in me. Holy Sprit led me to the Scriptures that truly changed my life (a major transformation):

1 Peter 3:21: "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him."

After my total renewal, I felt totally different. My conscience was clear. Right after this, Mark asked me to preach I had no resistance. Then shortly after, I was called to teach bible class for teens at the Oklahoma Christian camp.

Prayer:
"Lord, thank you for using me as your soldier to spread your word. As in Isaiah stating "Send Me", I'm jumping up and down saying "use me!". I pray with this Men Retreat you open eyes and heart of these wonderful Men of Faith. In Jesus' name, Amen!"

Stray or Stay from 8-18-06 post

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to have all of you, to sift you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen and build up your brothers." Luke 22:31-32

In the past, I was a "strayed being" and was following my worldly friends. My friend would drink every weekend. He would say, “Hey, everybody does this.”. So I followed him. Then he went gambling at the dog track then he would say the same thing. Fine, I followed. But then I heard a saying “If person jumps over bridge and commits suicide, would you?” Ouch! So this was kind of a wake up call.

Last Spring, our small group covered 11 chapters of Proverbs and it made a lot of sense to me about wisdom. I know, for time, if a person is straying from the walk with God for a while, the light that he\she once had will become dark. They will cease to use the wisdom of God. But in my case, I didn’t. I took the advice seriously. I thank God that I did. And also thanks to my wife, Robin, at the time she and I were dating for probably 6 months, she also helped me. She gave me a choice to either continue the way that I was living my life and she would leave me or change and Robin will be at my side for life! You know the rest.

When I was living in Chicago, friend of mine was Catholic. He was joking around and explaining that we all are living in a "rat race" till we die and us Catholics are like a “Car Wash”. We go to priest ask for forgiveness then go back out and get dirty again. I didn't like the way he was living his life but it’s so true. It is not just people he knew but majority "so-called Christians" that I have met are running this same pattern. I ask to myself “does Christ like this?” Absolutely NOT! We need break this trend. In Romans 6:1, "Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more kindness and forgiveness?"

That’s why sometime when we catch ourselves sinning or to a point when we tempt, there is a verse I suggest to meditate which will help:

1 Peter 5:8-9, "Be careful! Watch out for attacks from the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour. Take a firm stand against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are."

Prayer:

"Lord, we ask you for your patience with us, as we are sinners. We pray for protection against Satan. Give us strength to resist against temptation. We are learning from our mistakes and becoming stronger and stronger as we mature in Christ. Thank you for giving us examples how to live by. In Jesus’s name, Amen."

Networking from 8-17-06 post

"Philip replied, "It would take a small fortune to feed them!" Then Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up. "There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?" John 6:7-9

"Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who had heard what John said and then followed Jesus. 41The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother, Simon, and tell him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means the Christ)." John 1:40

"Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, "You are Simon, the son of John--but you will be called Cephas" (which means Peter)." John 1:42

I am all for NETWORKING. Lord uses us in networking attempts to spread gospel, service, meet the needs of others. In my New King James Application bible, a scholar brought to attention this disciple “Andrew” something I did not realize. We can learn from Andrew. Notice Philip's comment in John 6:7 where Andrew spoke up.

There are times in past that Members FXCC mention may things on prayer list and we did pray for them. But what bothered me we did nothing to assist. I think we have gone long way and matured since. But this is good lesson for us to put into practice when we chat or meet people and they mention an issue for example looking for a job in specific area. Then if this person cannot help then at least he\she knows a person who can help and introduce this person to a member who can help. God is using us. This is networking!

Also another way of networking is name-dropping. During a conversation with someone, you can drop the word Jesus Christ, Deaf Ministry, Deaf Preacher, Deaf Bible Class, Men’s Night out, Ladies Night Out, Family Day Out, Merry Christmas (Paul Dymokes’ name-dropping), and many others. Then the other person will ask you more about it in hope to connect them to Christ.

Prayer:

"Lord, thank you for connecting us to people who are seeking for help and also use us to spread the gospel to those who do not know you. In Jesus’s name, Amen."

Your First Love - From 8-16-06 post

Deaf Band of the Brothers: 8-16-06

(NLT) Revelations 2:5 "Look how far you have fallen from your first love! Turn back to me again and work as you did at first. If you don't, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches."

Powerful verse.

I learned this word, "adrenalin" which also means "rejuvenation", rekindle the fire in a Christian man. In the dictionary, "adrenalin" is a medical term for describing hormones taking over in our muscles under stress. But we always find many ways to describe verses that can apply to our daily lives.

This verse above is rude awakening for us. I recall that day I commit my life to Jesus. With that feeling that I had all over my body, and my motivation, my desire to do many things for the Lord. But what happen since then? With everyday life struggle such as time, family, finance, etc, Satan does good job unplug cork and drain out this JUICE. I hope and pray with this men's retreat I look forward to rejuvenation! I remember also when asking Mark how to describe word that I want to see Gospel spread like wild fire. He gave me word he found was "Kerusso Effect." It means to "ring out the message strongly." I use this as my login name on the Kerusso blog. I really like this word as it really describes me.

One other thing I like to share, since living here in Maryland, I meet a lot of pride people as they tend to tell me to slow down chill out and some complain! Man, they really misled me. I don't want to slow down anymore. There is no time. We need to keep at it as Devil is one step ahead of us but really with Lord's help we ought to be one step ahead not behind.

James 2:19 "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder."

Lets be one step ahead of Satan!

Prayer:

"Lord, thank you for reminding us that we should not forsake our first love. With everyday life in Washington DC Metro, it is so easy to deflate this first love. Forgive us, as we are weak. We pray that you protect us from Satan blowing out the FLAME! In Jesus’ name Amen."

Swift Kick!

2 Timothy 4:1-5 (NLT) "And so I solemnly urge you before God and before Christ Jesus--who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be persistent, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear. They will reject the truth and follow strange myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at bringing others to Christ. Complete the ministry God has given you."

Swift kick in the rear!

I recall these verses that I first read several years ago. This pretty much explains why there are so many religions in this world. I have quoted this verse many times to people who are confused about church doctrine. I make known to them that Church it self should not have it's own doctrine. The doctrine should come from the bible. The members of congregation should rely on Holy Spirit, fervent prayers, a lot of reading and studying, discussing among the Christians and help each other to fulfill Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20.

Actually, reason I presented these due to meditating on lesson from yesterday's service. I was meditating on comment (by Mark) that made sense to me. He mention that the mother bird will push the young ones out of nest because she knows its time for them to take charge and start flying. Mark used this example how we Christians are so co-dependent on preacher/church for answers or leadership. Even though, themselves they have the capability to rely on scriptures and take charge in leading either in bible study, mission, or ministries.

When Mark made this comment, I had a flashback during men's only bible study. We never had a separate men/women bible study. Mark selected passages and delegated different scriptures to each men. Every Sunday, up to 4 men will lead bible discussion on passages they have studied. Wow! I thank the Lord for giving Mark the confidence to push us men at that time, out of the nest! I hope and pray that this Men's Retreat, the Lord will be able to give us all men confidence to adhere to 2 Tim 4:5. We need to remind ourselves not to forget that we have committed ourselves to the Lord. Galatians 2:20.

Prayer:
"Lord, give us men of faith this push we need. We are human and we have tendency to hold back like Moses did when you asked him to speak in Egypt. You are an Awesome God. In Jesus' name, Amen!"

Evangelism - 8-20-06

I read this verse of day from www.litmin.org. This will be the DBOB for August 20.

Evangelism: Saved to Worship
"Give to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering, and come before Him. Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!" --1 Chronicles 16:29

There is nothing intrinsically (essentially) wrong with signing a card. It can be a helpful thing so we know who has made inquiry. But really, my brother or sister, we are brought to God and to faithand to salvation that we might worship and adore Him. We do not come to God that we might be automatic Christians, cookie-cutter Christians, Christians stamped out with a dye. (This is funny quote ~ Darrin)

God has provided His salvation that we might be, individually and personally, vibrant children of God, loving God with all our hearts and worshiping Him in the beauty of holiness.

Prayer:
"Lord, I don't need another name in my file, another notch on my belt. But I would like the privilege today of bringing someone to the pointof salvation so he could become a genuine worshiper of You. Use me and others today, I pray, in Jesus' name. Amen."

DBOB - 8-19-06

Deaf Band Of Brothers

Ephesians 5:15-16 "So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing well in these evil days."

It's funny but true. There are times we promise ourselves we will do more reading/study of bible, be more involved with service at FXCC, setup new ministries, and prayer time. We may try re-prioritizing our life by setting up time management so we can make more time for Lord.

You ever heard of saying, "We make the time when we don't have time at all, but when we have plenty of time we don't make the time?." We are human. But we need remind ourselves that we need make the opportunity. For example, we have Saturdays we spend all day maybe doing nothing.

Oswald J Smith also stated that countless of churches are bogged down by church activities, and the focus of the unsaved people in the world has been neglected. This is parallel with our time to make opportunity to evangelize to co-worker, family, and friends around us.

Prayer:
Lord, we are distracted by many tasks we want and need to do. Help us to prioritize our time so we can make room to be more involved in your service/ministries. Also give us courage when we have that moment of opportunity to mention The Gospel to our co-worker, family, friends, and especially strangers. In Jesus' name, Amen.