Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Friday, March 29, 2013
Reflections on Panama
I was blown away by the whole
“Panamanian experience”. To walk (and I
do mean walk) around with the people, whether in the towns or in the villages
on the mountain, it was amazing to see how happy they are. By all means I would say they live much
simpler lives than we do, and maybe that is why they are happy. Fellowship is a
big part of who they
are.
They spend a great deal of time
outside and talking with their neighbors. We in America
seem to come home to our nice houses and lock the door
behind us, cuddle up with our digital device (TV, wi, phone, iSomething) and block
everyone else out. There is
something very good about spending time with others in conversation, with no set goal or preconceived notion. The same is true with spending time with Jesus. Imagine how much more joy the people would experience if they knew Jesus. While we were there over
50 people accepted Jesus into their hearts and turned
from the sin that so easily traps us. Praise God for using Ben and I in the capacity He did. And for all the seeds that were planted this trip that now need water, I pray for those Pastors and the ones who come behind to find favor and perseverance to press on with the people of Panama.
In the words of Ben, “I miss Panama”. We are indebted to all who made this trip possible and for those that we got to share this journey with.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Tomorrow...PANAMA
Friends
We are now one day away from boarding the plane(s) for
Panama. It is almost surreal that it is
finally here. The mad scramble to finalize
(and start) our packing is upon us. Ben
and I would not be here if it were not for your love, financial support and
most of all your prayers. God has
already used you to show us His grace and plan and we are confident that He
will continue to use your prayers to carry us there and back.
Please continue to pray for our ability to speak the Gospel
clearly to the people that God brings in our path. May we be able to communicate God’s love in a
very practical way (whether it is Ben in the classroom, or the leaders with
their teams on the basketball court, or bible studies). Help us draw closer to Christ as we lean on
Him to fully meet the personal and ministry challenges we will face.
You are going with us on this trip. We are an extension of each of you. This is a beautiful picture of how the body
of Christ works…hands and feet that travel wherever the Lord leads us,
following His commands and rejoicing together in all that He will do!!
Once again, thank you for your support. Looking forward to sharing with you all that He does. We will try to keep facebook updated while we are away....no guaruntees.
Peace
B and b
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Mission to Panama
Dear Family and Friends,We have been given the opportunity of traveling to the country of Panama over our spring break (March 15-24) with a church in OKC, for a mission trip. My lifelong friend, Matt Hofeld, is the Pastor (Mayfair Baptist Church) and the leader on this mission trip. Our group will be working in the province of ChiriquÃ, doing various ministries such as basketball clinics, door-to-door evangelism, children's Bible activities and much more.
We are anticipating many things on this mission trip. This will be Ben’s first opportunity to go on a mission trip out of the USA and my first time to lead a basketball clinic. We are very excited about our opportunity and would like to invite you to share in it with us by praying for us, and with us during these days and the days leading up to departure. First, we request a prayer of health while we are preparing for, and on the trip. Second, that God would use us as we minister to the various people and groups we come in contact with. Third, that God would use this time to more refine who Ben and I are so we can more fully follow God’s plan. And finally, that God would send resources to insure that the group’s financial responsibilities ($1500/ea.) would be met.
A general schedule of events
is as follows:
Friday, March 15th: Travel Day (depart 10:30 AM OKC, Dallas, Miami,
arrive 8:30 PM Panama City)
Saturday, March 16th (Las Lomas): 7 hour bus journey from Panama City, Evening
prayer walk
Sunday, March 17th (Las Lomas): Morning worship, afternoon basketball
clinic, afternoon church equipping & leadership meeting
Monday, March 18th (Gulaca – Wa-lack-a): Morning prayer walk, afternoon
basketball clinic, afternoon adult bible study, evening movie event
Tuesday, March 19th (Anastacio): Morning prayer walk/Door-to-door
evangelism, afternoon basketball clinic, afternoon
adult bible study, evening movie event
Wednesday, March 20th (Cerro Iglesias): Volleyball/Soccer during school,
classroom evangelism, children’s bible activities, ladies bible study
Thursday, March 21st (David): Prayer walk/Door-to-door evangelism,
classroom evangelism
Friday, March 22nd: Tour Day
Saturday, March 23rd: 7 hour
bus ride back to Panama City
Sunday, March 24th: Travel Home (Panama City, Dallas, OKC)
We greatly appreciate your
prayer partnership.
God Bless!
Brian
and Ben
If you feel led to make a financial contribution, checks can
be made payable to Mayfair Baptist Church and mailed to the following address.
Babcock’s c/o Mayfair
Baptist Church
2715 NW 50th
OKC, OK 73112
Thank you again for your
prayerful support.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
This Christmas
What is it about Christmastime that brings with it the expectation and desire to slow down? Everybody talks about the hectic-ness of the Christmas season, with Christmas parties, presents to wrap, cookies to bake, etc. But deep inside of us all we want to pause. We want to enjoy the season with family and friends but the stress of getting everything perfect keeps us "to busy" to chill, to focus on what is really important.
The first Christmas, and the reason we should all celebrate the season, was pretty amazing. But it didn't happen in what we would call a "perfect" way (referencing stable, manger, hay, farm animals). The house wasn't decorated, cookies weren't baked, but the Savior still came. He wasn't worried about the decorations or the treats, He came for you. He came with you in mind, to spend time here with and for His children.
This season is a great time to remember, not everything has to be perfect. We need to remember people. Remember those friendships you used to have, but haven't focused on lately? Remember those people that are truly special to your life but you haven't told them lately? Take time this season to reconnect with those lost relationships, to drop words of encouragement to the person who helped you get where you are today, to hug your family, to worship your Savior.
Sorry for my Christmas ramblings today, but ultimately stuff will pass and perfection is different for all. So instead of worrying and running around to make everything perfect, focus on the people that mean something to you. Stuff passes... people matter. Make the most of this season. Share your time, talents and treasure on those close to you. The memories you create will be remembered long after the fruitcake has gone bad (wait....does fruitcake go bad?).
Let's remember the true meaning of CHRISTmas and share it with those close to us. Let's make that phone call to a friend we haven't talked to in a while. Let's send a note to that parent, teacher, coach that had an impact in our lives. Let's tell our family of our love for them. Let's hug those close to us everyday. Let's love those around us and show the true meaning of Christmas to all we come in contact with.
Peace
Merry CHRISTmas
B
The first Christmas, and the reason we should all celebrate the season, was pretty amazing. But it didn't happen in what we would call a "perfect" way (referencing stable, manger, hay, farm animals). The house wasn't decorated, cookies weren't baked, but the Savior still came. He wasn't worried about the decorations or the treats, He came for you. He came with you in mind, to spend time here with and for His children.
This season is a great time to remember, not everything has to be perfect. We need to remember people. Remember those friendships you used to have, but haven't focused on lately? Remember those people that are truly special to your life but you haven't told them lately? Take time this season to reconnect with those lost relationships, to drop words of encouragement to the person who helped you get where you are today, to hug your family, to worship your Savior.
Sorry for my Christmas ramblings today, but ultimately stuff will pass and perfection is different for all. So instead of worrying and running around to make everything perfect, focus on the people that mean something to you. Stuff passes... people matter. Make the most of this season. Share your time, talents and treasure on those close to you. The memories you create will be remembered long after the fruitcake has gone bad (wait....does fruitcake go bad?).
Let's remember the true meaning of CHRISTmas and share it with those close to us. Let's make that phone call to a friend we haven't talked to in a while. Let's send a note to that parent, teacher, coach that had an impact in our lives. Let's tell our family of our love for them. Let's hug those close to us everyday. Let's love those around us and show the true meaning of Christmas to all we come in contact with.
Peace
Merry CHRISTmas
B
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Wow! So true, so true
Proverbs 8....
BOOM!
BOOM!
Proverbs 8
Wisdom’s Call
8 Does not wisdom call out?
Does not understanding raise her voice?
2 At the highest point along the way,
where the paths meet, she takes her stand;
3 beside the gate leading into the city,
at the entrance, she cries aloud:
4 “To you, O people, I call out;
I raise my voice to all mankind.
5 You who are simple, gain prudence;
you who are foolish, set your hearts on it
6 Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say;
I open my lips to speak what is right.
7 My mouth speaks what is true,
for my lips detest wickedness.
8 All the words of my mouth are just;
none of them is crooked or perverse.
9 To the discerning all of them are right;
they are upright to those who have found knowledge.
10 Choose my instruction instead of silver,
knowledge rather than choice gold,
11 for wisdom is more precious than rubies,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Does not understanding raise her voice?
2 At the highest point along the way,
where the paths meet, she takes her stand;
3 beside the gate leading into the city,
at the entrance, she cries aloud:
4 “To you, O people, I call out;
I raise my voice to all mankind.
5 You who are simple, gain prudence;
you who are foolish, set your hearts on it
6 Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say;
I open my lips to speak what is right.
7 My mouth speaks what is true,
for my lips detest wickedness.
8 All the words of my mouth are just;
none of them is crooked or perverse.
9 To the discerning all of them are right;
they are upright to those who have found knowledge.
10 Choose my instruction instead of silver,
knowledge rather than choice gold,
11 for wisdom is more precious than rubies,
and nothing you desire can compare with her.
12 “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence;
I possess knowledge and discretion.
13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance,
evil behavior and perverse speech.
14 Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have insight, I have power.
15 By me kings reign
and rulers issue decrees that are just;
16 by me princes govern,
and nobles—all who rule on earth
17 I love those who love me,
and those who seek me find me.
18 With me are riches and honor,
enduring wealth and prosperity.
19 My fruit is better than fine gold;
what I yield surpasses choice silver.
20 I walk in the way of righteousness,
along the paths of justice,
21 bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me
and making their treasuries full.
I possess knowledge and discretion.
13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance,
evil behavior and perverse speech.
14 Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have insight, I have power.
15 By me kings reign
and rulers issue decrees that are just;
16 by me princes govern,
and nobles—all who rule on earth
17 I love those who love me,
and those who seek me find me.
18 With me are riches and honor,
enduring wealth and prosperity.
19 My fruit is better than fine gold;
what I yield surpasses choice silver.
20 I walk in the way of righteousness,
along the paths of justice,
21 bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me
and making their treasuries full.
22 “The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works
before his deeds of old;
23 I was formed long ages ago,
at the very beginning, when the world came to be.
24 When there were no watery depths, I was given birth,
when there were no springs overflowing with water;
25 before the mountains were settled in place,
before the hills, I was given birth,
26 before he made the world or its fields
or any of the dust of the earth.
27 I was there when he set the heavens in place,
when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep,
28 when he established the clouds above
and fixed securely the fountains of the deep,
29 when he gave the sea its boundary
so the waters would not overstep his command,
and when he marked out the foundations of the earth.
30 Then I was constantly at his side.
I was filled with delight day after day,
rejoicing always in his presence,
31 rejoicing in his whole world
and delighting in mankind.
before his deeds of old;
23 I was formed long ages ago,
at the very beginning, when the world came to be.
24 When there were no watery depths, I was given birth,
when there were no springs overflowing with water;
25 before the mountains were settled in place,
before the hills, I was given birth,
26 before he made the world or its fields
or any of the dust of the earth.
27 I was there when he set the heavens in place,
when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep,
28 when he established the clouds above
and fixed securely the fountains of the deep,
29 when he gave the sea its boundary
so the waters would not overstep his command,
and when he marked out the foundations of the earth.
30 Then I was constantly at his side.
I was filled with delight day after day,
rejoicing always in his presence,
31 rejoicing in his whole world
and delighting in mankind.
32 “Now then, my children, listen to me;
blessed are those who keep my ways.
33 Listen to my instruction and be wise;
do not disregard it.
34 Blessed are those who listen to me,
watching daily at my doors,
waiting at my doorway.
35 For those who find me find life
and receive favor from the Lord.
36 But those who fail to find me harm themselves;
all who hate me love death.”
blessed are those who keep my ways.
33 Listen to my instruction and be wise;
do not disregard it.
34 Blessed are those who listen to me,
watching daily at my doors,
waiting at my doorway.
35 For those who find me find life
and receive favor from the Lord.
36 But those who fail to find me harm themselves;
all who hate me love death.”
Well Said!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
....no matter what God's word helps (2)
John 14:27
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Where do you place you assurance?
What do you do for peace?
What gives you security?
Whom should you trust?
Answers are all in the most sold, (and also) the most stolen book of all time.
The Bible
....no matter what God's word helps
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Eat Mor Chikin - Chick-Fil-A
Well it's August 1st and "Chick-Fil-A appreciation day". A friend of mine says Chick-Fil-a appreciation day is every day at lunchtime (except Sunday's of course). But, why the "official" day?
Because the pot called the kettle black.
Yep. It is the American double standard. If we are a liberal group, we get this protection, we need tolerance, free speech, blah blah blah.
But if a Christian man who runs a restaurant (some would call it a Christian business) decides to say
"I think we are inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at him and say, 'We know better than you as to what constitutes a marriage,' and I pray God's mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we have the audacity to define what marriage is about."
...everybody gets in a huff.
So the same people who "preach" tolerance and acceptance have a problem with this, because it is not how they feel. So what happens...Hate, cries of boycott (see Chicago, Boston and NYC Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Bob Beckel, etc).
So what happened to free speech? Where are we again... Communist China? Didn't think so.
All I have to say to those who are upset...Grow up. Not everybody is like you, nor do they want to be like you. We are a diverse Nation filled with many differing views, take it like a man or woman or ____ and move on.
I don't like Chinese food because it messes with my stomach, do i protest? do i sue? nope. I choose to stay away. But i don't stand out front with a sign...i dont eat the food.
So while the owners of the different Chick-Fil-A's appreciate this attention and the August revenue goals being met on August 1st, I would just merely suggest the best way to protest is to not buy the best Chicken sandwich ever made.
(By the way, the quote says nothing about you. Just talks about God's definition of marriage. So unless you have a conscience and feel guilty by the comment, it shouldn't affect you at all.)
America how far have we fallen?
Peace
B
Because the pot called the kettle black.
Yep. It is the American double standard. If we are a liberal group, we get this protection, we need tolerance, free speech, blah blah blah.
But if a Christian man who runs a restaurant (some would call it a Christian business) decides to say
"I think we are inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at him and say, 'We know better than you as to what constitutes a marriage,' and I pray God's mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we have the audacity to define what marriage is about."
...everybody gets in a huff.
So the same people who "preach" tolerance and acceptance have a problem with this, because it is not how they feel. So what happens...Hate, cries of boycott (see Chicago, Boston and NYC Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Bob Beckel, etc).
So what happened to free speech? Where are we again... Communist China? Didn't think so.
All I have to say to those who are upset...Grow up. Not everybody is like you, nor do they want to be like you. We are a diverse Nation filled with many differing views, take it like a man or woman or ____ and move on.
I don't like Chinese food because it messes with my stomach, do i protest? do i sue? nope. I choose to stay away. But i don't stand out front with a sign...i dont eat the food.
So while the owners of the different Chick-Fil-A's appreciate this attention and the August revenue goals being met on August 1st, I would just merely suggest the best way to protest is to not buy the best Chicken sandwich ever made.
(By the way, the quote says nothing about you. Just talks about God's definition of marriage. So unless you have a conscience and feel guilty by the comment, it shouldn't affect you at all.)
America how far have we fallen?
Peace
B
Sunday, January 8, 2012
NYR 2012
New Year's Resolutions for 2012
Have you made your resolutions yet? I suppose theoretically you are suppose to have these in place by January 1st, but seriously does it matter? As long as you set resolutions, goals (or whatever you choose to call them) and write them down you are ahead of most the people around you.
Statistics say that somewhere between 15-20% of people actually make New Year's Resolutions and even a smaller percentage actually write them down.
Writing them down gives you a shopping list, a "to-do" list if you will. It also provides some accountability. Somewhere it is written what your plan is/was, that is your word (and it matters because our word is supposed to mean something -integrity).
So What are your goals, what are your resolutions?
I believe our resolutions should tie in with our priorities in life. So we first have to assess what are our priorities in life? What do we care most about?
For example, my general list of priorities are:
1. God
2. Wife
3. Kids
4. Friends
5. Job
So those are general, but all involve a large quantity of time investment. If I want to have a great relationship with 1-4, I have to be willing to invest time (time management). If I want to be successful at my job, I have to do the things that are required of me to help my company (organization or place of business) move up to the next level. This also requires time. If I'm not healthy, it cuts into my focus and quality time.
So the point is, are your resolutions pushing you toward your priorities?
If not are your resolutions good for you?
Goals are good, we should all set them. But let's make sure our goals are "others focused as well".
So my list (some are re-occurring yearly):
1. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with God.
2. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my wife.
3. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my children.
4. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my friends.
5. Devour the Word (the Bible). Read it for fun, wisdom, and because i have the freedom to do so, to garner God's wisdom for my life. (M'Cheyne One Year reading plan - YouVersion)
6. Pray more with my wife.
7. Hold hands with my wife...Everyday.
8. Hug and kiss my kids everyday.
9. No pop, soda, coke. Call it what you want if it has carbonation, it is a no-no for me.
10. Read a book a month (constructive and helpful book, not talking Cat in the Hat).
*U.S. Department of Labor and Yahoo!, business people who read at least seven business books a year earn 2.3 times more than those who read only one book per year.
Whelp, there they are. Nothing special. They will be a daily challenge and will take discipline to accomplish. I will have to focus each day when I awake to focus on Christ. With Him in first place, everything else will fall into place.
I hope that you have goals/resolutions as well. I hope that you are moving towards the prize. My prayer for you this year will be challenged to be "what" and "where" God needs them, focusing each day on mirroring Him to a lost and dying world.
Peace and love
B
Have you made your resolutions yet? I suppose theoretically you are suppose to have these in place by January 1st, but seriously does it matter? As long as you set resolutions, goals (or whatever you choose to call them) and write them down you are ahead of most the people around you.
Statistics say that somewhere between 15-20% of people actually make New Year's Resolutions and even a smaller percentage actually write them down.
Writing them down gives you a shopping list, a "to-do" list if you will. It also provides some accountability. Somewhere it is written what your plan is/was, that is your word (and it matters because our word is supposed to mean something -integrity).
So What are your goals, what are your resolutions?
I believe our resolutions should tie in with our priorities in life. So we first have to assess what are our priorities in life? What do we care most about?
For example, my general list of priorities are:
1. God
2. Wife
3. Kids
4. Friends
5. Job
So those are general, but all involve a large quantity of time investment. If I want to have a great relationship with 1-4, I have to be willing to invest time (time management). If I want to be successful at my job, I have to do the things that are required of me to help my company (organization or place of business) move up to the next level. This also requires time. If I'm not healthy, it cuts into my focus and quality time.
So the point is, are your resolutions pushing you toward your priorities?
If not are your resolutions good for you?
Goals are good, we should all set them. But let's make sure our goals are "others focused as well".
So my list (some are re-occurring yearly):
1. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with God.
2. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my wife.
3. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my children.
4. Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my friends.
5. Devour the Word (the Bible). Read it for fun, wisdom, and because i have the freedom to do so, to garner God's wisdom for my life. (M'Cheyne One Year reading plan - YouVersion)
6. Pray more with my wife.
7. Hold hands with my wife...Everyday.
8. Hug and kiss my kids everyday.
9. No pop, soda, coke. Call it what you want if it has carbonation, it is a no-no for me.
10. Read a book a month (constructive and helpful book, not talking Cat in the Hat).
*U.S. Department of Labor and Yahoo!, business people who read at least seven business books a year earn 2.3 times more than those who read only one book per year.
Whelp, there they are. Nothing special. They will be a daily challenge and will take discipline to accomplish. I will have to focus each day when I awake to focus on Christ. With Him in first place, everything else will fall into place.
I hope that you have goals/resolutions as well. I hope that you are moving towards the prize. My prayer for you this year will be challenged to be "what" and "where" God needs them, focusing each day on mirroring Him to a lost and dying world.
Peace and love
B
Thursday, December 8, 2011
One Day Too Late...
I am a big music guy. No I am not talking instrument music...all i can play is the radio. By big music guy I merely mean that I am a BIG guy and i like MUSIC. Every once in awhile a song sticks with you and makes you think.
The song "One Day Too Late" by Skillet is one of those songs.
One Day Too Late lyrics Songwriters: Cooper, John; Howes, Brian
Tick tock, hear the clock countdown
Wish the minute hand could be rewound
So much to do and so much I need to say
Will tomorrow be too late?
Feel the moment slip into the past
Like sand through an hourglass
In the madness, I guess, I just forget
To do all the things I said
Time passes by, never thought I'd wind up
One step behind, now I've made my mind up
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
Tick tock, hear my life pass by
I can't erase and I can't rewind
Of all the things I regret the most I do
Wish I'd spent more time with you
Here's my chance for a new beginning
I saved the best for a better ending
In the end I'll make it up to you
You'll see, you'll get the very best of me
Time passes by, never thought I'd wind up
One step behind, now I've made my mind up
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
Your time is running out
You're never gonna get it back
So make the most of every moment
Stop saving the best for last
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
What are you going to do with your day? What is important to you? Are you going to show it with your actions today?
Just a thought.
Peace
B
The song "One Day Too Late" by Skillet is one of those songs.
One Day Too Late lyrics Songwriters: Cooper, John; Howes, Brian
Tick tock, hear the clock countdown
Wish the minute hand could be rewound
So much to do and so much I need to say
Will tomorrow be too late?
Feel the moment slip into the past
Like sand through an hourglass
In the madness, I guess, I just forget
To do all the things I said
Time passes by, never thought I'd wind up
One step behind, now I've made my mind up
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
Tick tock, hear my life pass by
I can't erase and I can't rewind
Of all the things I regret the most I do
Wish I'd spent more time with you
Here's my chance for a new beginning
I saved the best for a better ending
In the end I'll make it up to you
You'll see, you'll get the very best of me
Time passes by, never thought I'd wind up
One step behind, now I've made my mind up
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
Your time is running out
You're never gonna get it back
So make the most of every moment
Stop saving the best for last
Today, I'm gonna try a little harder
Gonna make every minute last longer
Gonna learn to forgive and forget
'Cause we don't have long, gonna make the most of it
Today, I'm gonna love my enemies
Reach out to somebody who needs me
Make a change, make the world a better place
'Cause tomorrow could be one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
One day too late, one day too late
What are you going to do with your day? What is important to you? Are you going to show it with your actions today?
Just a thought.
Peace
B
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Saturday in Oklahoma...11-5-11
Saturday in Oklahoma (11-5-11)...
...and what a Saturday it was!
Oklahomans love their football (I know their not the only ones).
But what a Saturday it was for football -->
- OU/Texas A&M - exciting game, good win, sad story...
- OSU/Kansas State - Exciting game, good win, interesting ending...
Oh yeah, LSU/Alabama was on TV too!
The thing that is awesome about college football is the FANS. To be in the stadium, hear the cheering, see the EXCITEMENT...If you've ever been there you know what i am talking about.
The energy in the stadium is flowing, it's electric. Even if you were there just to watch two teams play you would get caught up in the moment.
The big question, those people you see in the stadium on Saturday, do you see the same excitement in their eyes on Sunday...unless they're at an NFL game? What about at church? Shouldn't that same excitement be there as well? (I mean we know how it all ends...that IS something to cheer)
So the OU/Texas A&M game was an exciting game. Back and forth in the first half. But in the third quarter OU starts to pull away. During that quarter, Ryan Broyles goes down with a torn ACL. That may mean nothing to some,but Broyles has quite the story.
From issues with the police upon arriving at OU as a freshman --> pushing through that and the discipline to becoming a standout athlete and deciding to forgo the draft to return to OU for his senior season. That takes discipline, it takes character. He chose college and finishing his college career over the money of the NFL. He chose the chance to help make OU great and accomplish the team goals rather than cashing it in for himself in the NFL.
Broyles took a trip with some of his teammates this summer on a mission trip to Haiti. According to those who went, and who saw him on his return, he came back a changed man. He had a little different perspective on life.
His senior season has been one of records for Broyles...
*FBS record holder for career receptions.
He also built on other Sooner records he already owned
*most 100 yard receiving games.
*most career touchdown receptions.
*most career receiving yards.
Just to name a few.
Then for it to end with one play...followed by tears as he had given his all... sad ending to a great college career.
We are never guaranteed anything...
What do you place you faith in? Is it in yourself?
Then the OSU/Kansas State game. What a season OSU is having. In the K-State game it (at times) looked like the Cowboy's of old trying to give it away, but they pulled it out.
Then shortly after the game the 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit. Not sure if that was because OSU went to #2 in the polls or just to drive home the thought in my mind of the brevity of life.
That was the first earthquake I have been in (a couple aftershocks since then) but a pretty humbling experience. When the whole world (as you know it) shakes and there is nothing you can do about it.
God is big. He's in control...no matter what you think.
So no matter who you root (cheer) for, no matter how excited you get at a football game,
James 4:14
"Yet you do not know at your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away."
We are not guaranteed another day. So let's all try to keep the right perspective. Have fun. Cheer loudly. Give God the praise and honor He deserves.
Life is short.
We don't take anything with us.
Let's all leave this life exhausted...for the right reasons.
When you get to Heaven, don't you want to see your friends there?
Peace
B
**disclaimer** I am not faulting anyone for cheering for sports. Just some thoughts I have had after seeing faces and actions in various churches on Sunday mornings.
...and what a Saturday it was!
Oklahomans love their football (I know their not the only ones).
But what a Saturday it was for football -->
- OU/Texas A&M - exciting game, good win, sad story...
- OSU/Kansas State - Exciting game, good win, interesting ending...
Oh yeah, LSU/Alabama was on TV too!
The thing that is awesome about college football is the FANS. To be in the stadium, hear the cheering, see the EXCITEMENT...If you've ever been there you know what i am talking about.
The energy in the stadium is flowing, it's electric. Even if you were there just to watch two teams play you would get caught up in the moment.
The big question, those people you see in the stadium on Saturday, do you see the same excitement in their eyes on Sunday...unless they're at an NFL game? What about at church? Shouldn't that same excitement be there as well? (I mean we know how it all ends...that IS something to cheer)
So the OU/Texas A&M game was an exciting game. Back and forth in the first half. But in the third quarter OU starts to pull away. During that quarter, Ryan Broyles goes down with a torn ACL. That may mean nothing to some,but Broyles has quite the story.
From issues with the police upon arriving at OU as a freshman --> pushing through that and the discipline to becoming a standout athlete and deciding to forgo the draft to return to OU for his senior season. That takes discipline, it takes character. He chose college and finishing his college career over the money of the NFL. He chose the chance to help make OU great and accomplish the team goals rather than cashing it in for himself in the NFL.
Broyles took a trip with some of his teammates this summer on a mission trip to Haiti. According to those who went, and who saw him on his return, he came back a changed man. He had a little different perspective on life.
His senior season has been one of records for Broyles...
*FBS record holder for career receptions.
He also built on other Sooner records he already owned
*most 100 yard receiving games.
*most career touchdown receptions.
*most career receiving yards.
Just to name a few.
Then for it to end with one play...followed by tears as he had given his all... sad ending to a great college career.
We are never guaranteed anything...
What do you place you faith in? Is it in yourself?
Then the OSU/Kansas State game. What a season OSU is having. In the K-State game it (at times) looked like the Cowboy's of old trying to give it away, but they pulled it out.
Then shortly after the game the 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit. Not sure if that was because OSU went to #2 in the polls or just to drive home the thought in my mind of the brevity of life.
That was the first earthquake I have been in (a couple aftershocks since then) but a pretty humbling experience. When the whole world (as you know it) shakes and there is nothing you can do about it.
God is big. He's in control...no matter what you think.
So no matter who you root (cheer) for, no matter how excited you get at a football game,
James 4:14
"Yet you do not know at your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away."
We are not guaranteed another day. So let's all try to keep the right perspective. Have fun. Cheer loudly. Give God the praise and honor He deserves.
Life is short.
We don't take anything with us.
Let's all leave this life exhausted...for the right reasons.
When you get to Heaven, don't you want to see your friends there?
Peace
B
**disclaimer** I am not faulting anyone for cheering for sports. Just some thoughts I have had after seeing faces and actions in various churches on Sunday mornings.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Start here first...
Proverbs is full of wisdom. Various times in my life have I heard (or said), "wow, I never knew that" or "I wish someone would have told me that first".
Interesting comments when faced with Proverbs 16.
Proverbs 16:1-9
1 To man belong the plans of the heart,
but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue.
2 All a man’s ways seem innocent to him,
but motives are weighed by the LORD.
3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed.
4 The LORD works out everything for his own ends—
even the wicked for a day of disaster.
5 The LORD detests all the proud of heart.
Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
6 Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil.
7 When a man’s ways are pleasing to the LORD,
he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
8 Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice.
9 In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.
So is this saying don't plan? Not to set goals? Nope.
Plan and set goals just do it with God. How many times when you are planning do you consider God first? Do you intentionally set out with prayer first? Or do we tend to plan it, attempt it, mess something up and then look to God to fix it. Let's have faith and put it into action...starting with prayer. It is definitely an unconventional approach by the worlds standards, but by God's it is just common sense.
God wrote the book on wisdom...don't you think we should start reading it?
That's all I'm saying...
B
Interesting comments when faced with Proverbs 16.
Proverbs 16:1-9
1 To man belong the plans of the heart,
but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue.
2 All a man’s ways seem innocent to him,
but motives are weighed by the LORD.
3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed.
4 The LORD works out everything for his own ends—
even the wicked for a day of disaster.
5 The LORD detests all the proud of heart.
Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
6 Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil.
7 When a man’s ways are pleasing to the LORD,
he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
8 Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice.
9 In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.
So is this saying don't plan? Not to set goals? Nope.
Plan and set goals just do it with God. How many times when you are planning do you consider God first? Do you intentionally set out with prayer first? Or do we tend to plan it, attempt it, mess something up and then look to God to fix it. Let's have faith and put it into action...starting with prayer. It is definitely an unconventional approach by the worlds standards, but by God's it is just common sense.
God wrote the book on wisdom...don't you think we should start reading it?
That's all I'm saying...
B
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
The Plastic Surgeon Kind of Life...
Luke 11:21-28 21 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. 22 But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder. 23 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 24 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ 25 When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.” 27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” 28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
I read this scripture tonight with my boys. Kind of one of those times when scripture just jumps out at you and catches you. I would say convicting (and maybe it is that too), but it was more of a "this is really deep but simple" kind of feeling.
I mean take the first section: “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. 22 But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder. "
A lot of times we walk around like we have it all together. We build our friendships by telling them the good stuff (to make us appear "good"). We live our lives in such a way to always look "good".
We hide the bad stuff, we put up a front, we live these plastic surgeon lives that from the outside look great. But it's what is on the inside that really matters.
Some place, some day in the future, that outside shell you have built to protect you will fail.
You heard it said, "it is what's on the inside that counts or matters". It is. Nothing more, nothing less. If Christ is for you, it doesn't matter what is against you. You win! because He already fought the battle.
So my challenge would be, quit being fake.
Get some accountability and get right with God. This life didn't promise you happiness (nor do we deserve it) but there is One that promised us that (happiness) in the next one. So live with the Eternal perspective now.
Choose life, eternal life, now.
Tear down the walls.
Seek forgiveness.
Give forgiveness.
Love.
Be loved.
Be bold.
Be different.
Have bite.
Be salt.
Be different.
Mirror Christ.
Reflect the Son!
Peace
B
I read this scripture tonight with my boys. Kind of one of those times when scripture just jumps out at you and catches you. I would say convicting (and maybe it is that too), but it was more of a "this is really deep but simple" kind of feeling.
I mean take the first section: “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. 22 But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder. "
A lot of times we walk around like we have it all together. We build our friendships by telling them the good stuff (to make us appear "good"). We live our lives in such a way to always look "good".
We hide the bad stuff, we put up a front, we live these plastic surgeon lives that from the outside look great. But it's what is on the inside that really matters.
Some place, some day in the future, that outside shell you have built to protect you will fail.
You heard it said, "it is what's on the inside that counts or matters". It is. Nothing more, nothing less. If Christ is for you, it doesn't matter what is against you. You win! because He already fought the battle.
So my challenge would be, quit being fake.
Get some accountability and get right with God. This life didn't promise you happiness (nor do we deserve it) but there is One that promised us that (happiness) in the next one. So live with the Eternal perspective now.
Choose life, eternal life, now.
Tear down the walls.
Seek forgiveness.
Give forgiveness.
Love.
Be loved.
Be bold.
Be different.
Have bite.
Be salt.
Be different.
Mirror Christ.
Reflect the Son!
Peace
B
Thursday, February 10, 2011
The 19th Hole...
Well off to the 19th hole (as it is sometimes referred to)…
The 19th hole (the clubhouse)… where people go after their round to cool off, get a drink, have a bite to eat, talk about how awesome they played (lie), and talk about the putts they barely missed (by 8 feet).
So we invite our “friend” Sam to join us for a bite as he totals our score…
Due to the strong finish and expert guidance I ended up shooting a 70 or 2 under Par.
Sam shot a 98…
…which he informs us is good for him.
I told him for just really picking up the sport he played pretty well, but went on to say I had figured by his reactions and words out on the course he had played the sport much longer. I figured by his attitude he normally played a lot better.
Sam is just 54 years old and has just played for just over a year. He let us know his actions and words were due to his competitiveness. He picked up golf recently because he no longer played basketball or baseball due to his age.
He picked up golf because that is what people do.
…when they get older THEN they take up golf.
He dabbled in it but recently started playing once a week.
Golf and Christianity… lots of parallels.
Isn’t Sam’s story similar to the young person of today in respect to the Christian faith? Put it off till they’re older…because that’s what people do.
…“Oh I believe in God but I’m not ready to”:
- “live by those rules”
- “give up partying with my friends”
…”That’s a huge commitment”
…”I want to get all my fun out before that”
…”I’ll do it when I’m older”
…”no need to spoil my fun early”
…”I want to ‘experience’ life first”
The misconception about Christians is they:
- Have no fun
- Live by strict rules
- Are old
- are boring
Christianity by definition is: religion based on the life, teachings, and example of Jesus Christ.
Not sure, but the bible I read is anything but boring.
The commitment is for a lifetime.
A lifetime that will be filled with many challenges, lots of trials, and tons of excitement.
…Jesus died so we might live.
John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
…only when you accept Jesus can you truly live
…when you know Jesus, His sacrifice, His love then your life will reflect it. Not a set of legalistic rules you keep, but a faith, an example that grows stronger on a day by day basis.
…you accept the call to GO
Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
…the focus shifts away from “me” and we focus instead on others
Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
In golf you’re not an excellent player when you first pick up the clubs.
In the Christian faith you’re not perfect just because you accepted Christ and became a Christian.
…you WILL stumble
…you WILL mess up
BUT you are forgiven! You ARE being made “perfect” in Christ.
You have to start by starting. Don’t put it off and wait.
4 hours once a week (playing golf) will not make you significantly better. Time practicing every day will improve your game.
1 hour once a week (in Church) will not grow your relationship with Christ significantly. Time every day will develop the relationship and keep it intimate.
Don’t put off the best decision you will ever make till you’re older.
God has a plan for your life…
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Life is short…
James 4:14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.
We never know how long we get on Earth…
Matthew 24:40-45 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
Start His plan for your life…by starting
The 19th hole (the clubhouse)… where people go after their round to cool off, get a drink, have a bite to eat, talk about how awesome they played (lie), and talk about the putts they barely missed (by 8 feet).
So we invite our “friend” Sam to join us for a bite as he totals our score…
Due to the strong finish and expert guidance I ended up shooting a 70 or 2 under Par.
Sam shot a 98…
…which he informs us is good for him.
I told him for just really picking up the sport he played pretty well, but went on to say I had figured by his reactions and words out on the course he had played the sport much longer. I figured by his attitude he normally played a lot better.
Sam is just 54 years old and has just played for just over a year. He let us know his actions and words were due to his competitiveness. He picked up golf recently because he no longer played basketball or baseball due to his age.
He picked up golf because that is what people do.
…when they get older THEN they take up golf.
He dabbled in it but recently started playing once a week.
Golf and Christianity… lots of parallels.
Isn’t Sam’s story similar to the young person of today in respect to the Christian faith? Put it off till they’re older…because that’s what people do.
…“Oh I believe in God but I’m not ready to”:
- “live by those rules”
- “give up partying with my friends”
…”That’s a huge commitment”
…”I want to get all my fun out before that”
…”I’ll do it when I’m older”
…”no need to spoil my fun early”
…”I want to ‘experience’ life first”
The misconception about Christians is they:
- Have no fun
- Live by strict rules
- Are old
- are boring
Christianity by definition is: religion based on the life, teachings, and example of Jesus Christ.
Not sure, but the bible I read is anything but boring.
The commitment is for a lifetime.
A lifetime that will be filled with many challenges, lots of trials, and tons of excitement.
…Jesus died so we might live.
John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
…only when you accept Jesus can you truly live
…when you know Jesus, His sacrifice, His love then your life will reflect it. Not a set of legalistic rules you keep, but a faith, an example that grows stronger on a day by day basis.
…you accept the call to GO
Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
…the focus shifts away from “me” and we focus instead on others
Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
In golf you’re not an excellent player when you first pick up the clubs.
In the Christian faith you’re not perfect just because you accepted Christ and became a Christian.
…you WILL stumble
…you WILL mess up
BUT you are forgiven! You ARE being made “perfect” in Christ.
You have to start by starting. Don’t put it off and wait.
4 hours once a week (playing golf) will not make you significantly better. Time practicing every day will improve your game.
1 hour once a week (in Church) will not grow your relationship with Christ significantly. Time every day will develop the relationship and keep it intimate.
Don’t put off the best decision you will ever make till you’re older.
God has a plan for your life…
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Life is short…
James 4:14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.
We never know how long we get on Earth…
Matthew 24:40-45 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
Start His plan for your life…by starting
Let’s finish this round (of life) strong for eternity’s (19th hole) sake. Focusing on what impact we can have now on the course of life for Christ. We can then spend eternity (19th) doing what we were created to do…PRAISING GOD.
G.O.L.F
God
Offers
Life
Forever
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
A Round of golf… …a lesson for life …for eternity
FINISH STRONG!
Prayer: Lord, please help us to number our days. Help us consider our choices have an eternal effect on us and others. Guide us to mirror You in all that we do and live every day with reckless abandon to your will and plan. We love and honor you! In Jesus name AMEN.
If you want to know more about becoming a Christian, the life that God has called you to or if you need additional resources ask your local Pastor or drop me a line.
Peace,
B
Soli Deo gloria
G.O.L.F
God
Offers
Life
Forever
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
A Round of golf… …a lesson for life …for eternity
FINISH STRONG!
Prayer: Lord, please help us to number our days. Help us consider our choices have an eternal effect on us and others. Guide us to mirror You in all that we do and live every day with reckless abandon to your will and plan. We love and honor you! In Jesus name AMEN.
If you want to know more about becoming a Christian, the life that God has called you to or if you need additional resources ask your local Pastor or drop me a line.
Peace,
B
Soli Deo gloria
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
New Year's Resolutions
New Year’s Resolutions…
Goals...
Aspirations...
Decrees…
Hopes…
Wishes…
RESOLUTION’s!
…call them what you want, but WRITE them down.
There is something about writing them down that give us a sense of ACCOUNTABILITY.
When you set your resolutions, do so with others in mind. Let’s do something this year that will make our world a little better by affecting someone else’s world for the good.
No Resolutions on here about dropping weight (we should stay healthy because our bodies are God's temple).
But here they are:
#1 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with God.
#2 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my wife.
#3 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my boys.
#4 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my friends.
#5 Devour the Word (the Bible). Read it for fun, wisdom, and because i have the freedom to do so, to garner God's wisdom for my life.
#6 Pray more with my wife.
#7 Hold hands with my wife...Everyday.
#8 Hug and kiss my kids everyday.
#9 Go on a date with my wife at least once a month.
and
#10 Finish the “A round of golf…a lesson for life” blog.
Those are them.
I hope that you are moving towards the prize. My prayer is that everyone that reads (the Blog) this year will be challenged to BE what and where God needs, focused on mirroring Him to a lost and dying world.
LORD, help me to put away regrets of not becoming the person I thought I would be. This new year, help me take hold of a new attitude and a new way of thinking to become the person You intended me to be. Thank You that I can begin becoming that today! In
Jesus' name, Amen.
Let's have the resolve to move in Christ.
Today, Tomorrow and Forever!
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.(Eph 4:22-24 NIV)
Peace and Love
B
Goals...
Aspirations...
Decrees…
Hopes…
Wishes…
RESOLUTION’s!
…call them what you want, but WRITE them down.
There is something about writing them down that give us a sense of ACCOUNTABILITY.
When you set your resolutions, do so with others in mind. Let’s do something this year that will make our world a little better by affecting someone else’s world for the good.
No Resolutions on here about dropping weight (we should stay healthy because our bodies are God's temple).
But here they are:
#1 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with God.
#2 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my wife.
#3 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my boys.
#4 Live each day as if it were my last with regard to my relationship with my friends.
#5 Devour the Word (the Bible). Read it for fun, wisdom, and because i have the freedom to do so, to garner God's wisdom for my life.
#6 Pray more with my wife.
#7 Hold hands with my wife...Everyday.
#8 Hug and kiss my kids everyday.
#9 Go on a date with my wife at least once a month.
and
#10 Finish the “A round of golf…a lesson for life” blog.
Those are them.
I hope that you are moving towards the prize. My prayer is that everyone that reads (the Blog) this year will be challenged to BE what and where God needs, focused on mirroring Him to a lost and dying world.
LORD, help me to put away regrets of not becoming the person I thought I would be. This new year, help me take hold of a new attitude and a new way of thinking to become the person You intended me to be. Thank You that I can begin becoming that today! In
Jesus' name, Amen.
Let's have the resolve to move in Christ.
Today, Tomorrow and Forever!
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.(Eph 4:22-24 NIV)
Peace and Love
B
Friday, December 10, 2010
Hole 18, Par 5, 525 yards...
Hole #18
Finally! Hole 18.
This has been a tremendous day with great people. Being on a golf course for 18 holes and over 4 hours definitely gives you time to become more acquainted and familiar with people. You just can't beat a good day out on the course with friends.
You get time to focus on relationships and think about what is important in life (and no I am not talking about golf).
Hole number 18 is an up and down hole. The Tee elevation is about the same as the green elevation, but the fairway....
...The elevated Tee gives way to a downward sloping fairway, only to climb back up to the green.
If I was to give you a visual description, it would be "bowl" shaped. It is a Par 5, 525 yard hole. This hole plays "short" if the Tee shot is hit correctly. If you can keep your drive in the fairway after 200 yards you will get an additional roll of 20-50 yards based on the slope of the fairway.
Well it was a good drive.
Smack dab in the middle of the fairway with a GREAT roll. That drive will leave me about a 215 yard shot into the green. Our often distempered "friend" Sam that we picked up in our group a few holes back hits a good Tee shot as well.
The second shot actually landed on the green...and stayed on!
This might be a great ending to a great day...if I can hit my putt close and follow with a birdie that would be awesome.
Sam took a couple of shots but he is "dancing" (putting) now as well.
This green is kind of tricky with its varying slopes. Turns out I have about a 10 foot putt. Sam's is about 15 feet and right behind mine. He is putting for birdie....and rolls it just past the cup (less than a foot) which leaves him a tap in for Par. The best part is he showed me the line (the way the ball will break).
My putt is in! At which cheers are heard around the course (only to realize I am the only one shouting). What a hole! That was AMAZING! My first Eagle!
Sometimes in life we receive those blessings as well.
…Admiration from a friend.
…The privilege of scoring the winning points for the team.
…The ability to make money and bless others with it.
…Good life skills that afford us the ability to “fix” things (cars, plumbing, etc) for others at no charge.
But let us not become arrogant in those things or do them for the praise. Help us to walk humbly (Micah 6:8) sharing God’s love in our own way. Help us to walk in confidence knowing God is the One who gives…
Ending a day this way sure does build some confidence in me for the next time I am out there. There is a difference between confidence and arrogance. Confidence being that I now know I am capable of playing well (improving my score). It would be easy to take the arrogant way and be prideful in the last hole...walking and talking as if I am some amazing golfer.
Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
I know it is easy to get off course…
Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
…I could have just as easily triple bogeyed that hole if my focus had been off.
…Once again the reminder of being focused on what is important. Focus on the little things (fundamentals) and do them diligently and all things will turn out for the best.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Well we shake hands after the round and invite our new friend back to the clubhouse for something to eat.
On to the 19th hole (as it is sometimes referred).
Finally! Hole 18.
This has been a tremendous day with great people. Being on a golf course for 18 holes and over 4 hours definitely gives you time to become more acquainted and familiar with people. You just can't beat a good day out on the course with friends.
You get time to focus on relationships and think about what is important in life (and no I am not talking about golf).
Hole number 18 is an up and down hole. The Tee elevation is about the same as the green elevation, but the fairway....
...The elevated Tee gives way to a downward sloping fairway, only to climb back up to the green.
If I was to give you a visual description, it would be "bowl" shaped. It is a Par 5, 525 yard hole. This hole plays "short" if the Tee shot is hit correctly. If you can keep your drive in the fairway after 200 yards you will get an additional roll of 20-50 yards based on the slope of the fairway.
Well it was a good drive.
Smack dab in the middle of the fairway with a GREAT roll. That drive will leave me about a 215 yard shot into the green. Our often distempered "friend" Sam that we picked up in our group a few holes back hits a good Tee shot as well.
The second shot actually landed on the green...and stayed on!
This might be a great ending to a great day...if I can hit my putt close and follow with a birdie that would be awesome.
Sam took a couple of shots but he is "dancing" (putting) now as well.
This green is kind of tricky with its varying slopes. Turns out I have about a 10 foot putt. Sam's is about 15 feet and right behind mine. He is putting for birdie....and rolls it just past the cup (less than a foot) which leaves him a tap in for Par. The best part is he showed me the line (the way the ball will break).
My putt is in! At which cheers are heard around the course (only to realize I am the only one shouting). What a hole! That was AMAZING! My first Eagle!
Sometimes in life we receive those blessings as well.
…Admiration from a friend.
…The privilege of scoring the winning points for the team.
…The ability to make money and bless others with it.
…Good life skills that afford us the ability to “fix” things (cars, plumbing, etc) for others at no charge.
But let us not become arrogant in those things or do them for the praise. Help us to walk humbly (Micah 6:8) sharing God’s love in our own way. Help us to walk in confidence knowing God is the One who gives…
Ending a day this way sure does build some confidence in me for the next time I am out there. There is a difference between confidence and arrogance. Confidence being that I now know I am capable of playing well (improving my score). It would be easy to take the arrogant way and be prideful in the last hole...walking and talking as if I am some amazing golfer.
Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
I know it is easy to get off course…
Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
…I could have just as easily triple bogeyed that hole if my focus had been off.
…Once again the reminder of being focused on what is important. Focus on the little things (fundamentals) and do them diligently and all things will turn out for the best.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Well we shake hands after the round and invite our new friend back to the clubhouse for something to eat.
On to the 19th hole (as it is sometimes referred).
Monday, September 27, 2010
Hole 17, Par 3, 201 yards...
Hole #17
Well we talked about the need to focus on the last two holes that we have in front of us, and that was never truer than right now. Sam the previously mentioned “disgruntled golfer” that was in front of us, has decided to join us for the final two holes.
Ever felt pressure to perform?
Like everyone was watching you and seeing if this “Christian” thing was any different than what they thought?
Well maybe it’s because I am tired, but I am feeling that right now.
Well on to 17…
Number 17 should be a relatively easy par 3 hole before the final Par 5 of the day. This Par 3 is uphill to the green.
I am starting to feel the 4 hours we have already spent on the course. At the end of the round the sun and exercise can start to be felt so I am a little tired at this point. Losing a little of the strength and mental sharpness I started with.
Well Sam’s Tee shot was great (he must have worked through his anger issue); mine on the other hand was less than spectacular. In fact it was about 180 yards and just long enough to miss the green (short) and roll back down the hill about 40 yards.
Well it could have been better but rather than lose my wits and thus lose my witness I shrug it off and let Sam know “I’m over it”.
…time to move up to the green and see if I can rescue par.
Well it is not just me that is tired…the battery light lit up on our way up the hill to the green…
In life we get worn down.
…we get tired
…we get frustrated
…we get upset
So what do we do at those moments? How do we handle them? How do we persevere?
If we lose our wits in those moments, it is possible to lose our witness with whoever is present.
“Preach the Gospel at all times, use words when necessary” St Francis of Assisi
They may look at us and say “Well there a Christian but there is no difference between them and me: they yell, they swear, they give into peer pressure, they conform to the same things I do”
So how do we stand out?
How can we remain the “salt” and have bite?
How can we set the positive example?
Scripture teaches a thing or two:
Are we perfect?
Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Do we have help?
Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Persevere?
James 1:11-12 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Training, is it needed?
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
It is just like the athlete who trains for their sport. They push themselves in practice. They push their muscles to fatigue to make them stronger. They practice till they get it right. Till they know the plays backwards and forwards, so when the pressure situation comes it will be second nature. They can then react with what they know will succeed…
…what they have practiced.
Well funny hole. I was able to keep my composure and chip it up within 6 inches of the hole and make the par putt. Sam miss-putted and had to settle for par as well. He was not as happy, all goes back to perspective.
Now on to the tricky and long Par 5 number 18!
Well we talked about the need to focus on the last two holes that we have in front of us, and that was never truer than right now. Sam the previously mentioned “disgruntled golfer” that was in front of us, has decided to join us for the final two holes.
Ever felt pressure to perform?
Like everyone was watching you and seeing if this “Christian” thing was any different than what they thought?
Well maybe it’s because I am tired, but I am feeling that right now.
Well on to 17…
Number 17 should be a relatively easy par 3 hole before the final Par 5 of the day. This Par 3 is uphill to the green.
I am starting to feel the 4 hours we have already spent on the course. At the end of the round the sun and exercise can start to be felt so I am a little tired at this point. Losing a little of the strength and mental sharpness I started with.
Well Sam’s Tee shot was great (he must have worked through his anger issue); mine on the other hand was less than spectacular. In fact it was about 180 yards and just long enough to miss the green (short) and roll back down the hill about 40 yards.
Well it could have been better but rather than lose my wits and thus lose my witness I shrug it off and let Sam know “I’m over it”.
…time to move up to the green and see if I can rescue par.
Well it is not just me that is tired…the battery light lit up on our way up the hill to the green…
In life we get worn down.
…we get tired
…we get frustrated
…we get upset
So what do we do at those moments? How do we handle them? How do we persevere?
If we lose our wits in those moments, it is possible to lose our witness with whoever is present.
“Preach the Gospel at all times, use words when necessary” St Francis of Assisi
They may look at us and say “Well there a Christian but there is no difference between them and me: they yell, they swear, they give into peer pressure, they conform to the same things I do”
So how do we stand out?
How can we remain the “salt” and have bite?
How can we set the positive example?
Scripture teaches a thing or two:
Are we perfect?
Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Do we have help?
Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Persevere?
James 1:11-12 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Training, is it needed?
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
It is just like the athlete who trains for their sport. They push themselves in practice. They push their muscles to fatigue to make them stronger. They practice till they get it right. Till they know the plays backwards and forwards, so when the pressure situation comes it will be second nature. They can then react with what they know will succeed…
…what they have practiced.
Well funny hole. I was able to keep my composure and chip it up within 6 inches of the hole and make the par putt. Sam miss-putted and had to settle for par as well. He was not as happy, all goes back to perspective.
Now on to the tricky and long Par 5 number 18!
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