This Is Rich

Luke 12

For SCC - What's In Your Wallet? 10-19-08

Continuing the Balancing Your Life series. The following is a quick look at What's In Your Wallet?

In our wallets or purses we find our Identification, Important Information and Money. The items in our wallets are important to us. They are also important to God. You are important to God. Your family, health, business, and other aspects of life are important to God. Your money is important to God. so much so that the Bible has a great deal to say about money. In Matthew 25:14-30 Jesus tells a story seeking to help people understand just how important it is that we grasp the need of being wise with money and seek to honor God with money. The story is about being a good steward. It is about stewardship. These are words we do not hear very often today.

Steward: One who manages another's property, finances, or other affairs. An agent, manager, trustee, servant.

Insights From This Passage:

God is the owner.

Opportunity is before us.

Be responsible.

Take action.

Live in faith not fear.

We are accountable

Stewardship in the Biblical sense is realizing that God is the owner and you and I are the managers, agents or trustees. Being a good steward of finances involves Earning/Work, Taking and Inventory, Spending, Saving and Giving. It involves having a financial plan or budget and being informed in regards finances. We were encouraged to look at one of the above areas and seek become better stewards.

150

1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre,
4 praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute,
5 praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.
6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.

Community Group

Great discussion at Group last night. We had very open dialogue last night about the people who helped us come to Christ, people we are helping come to Christ, hoe our faith can impact others and help them accept Christ, the importance of forgiveness and that it is mankind's greatest need, how we each need forgiveness and how forgiveness brings healing form Christ to us and to to others. Good time, no, Godly time.

Joe The Plumber

Presidential Election - Information

The following links will provide you some information to think about as you seek to decide whom you will vote for on Nov. 4.

Presidential Debates

Saddleback Civil Forum Interviews with Candidates

Cell Phone and Bible - What if...

Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat
our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we traveled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?

This is one of those circulating emails that was sent to me via a friend. Made me think. At this time in my life and career my cell phone is very important to me. At this time in my life and career the Bible is very important to me. Questions for me: Which one is more important? Which one gets more use? Do I spend as much money to help me and others in regards to Christianity than I do on my Cell Phone Bill?

Hmmmmmm...

Money - Makes Sense and Is Biblical

Seven Practical Steps

This Is Good

Jesus Loves You

My son's friend had this shirt on this morn. Funny.

Homecoming Court

The Nethery's are celebrating Nat's Sr. year in High School. She recently made the Homecoming Court in her High School, Western Branch Bruins that has about 2,500 students, and was in the running for Queen. She had a great week and a really fun Friday at the Homecoming Parade and game. Nat, you are a awesome daughter and a wonderful young lady.

Daily Devotional

The following is a good word about God's Word. You can check this site out yourself daily or you can order hard copies of this Devotional book that will help you as you seek to spend time with God each day.

Our Daily Bread

Some Quotes Sent From A Friend

Better to do something imperfectly than to do NOTHING flawlessly.

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.

The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude!

The greatest mistake we make is living in constant fear that we will make one.

Winners never quit and quitters never win!

To fail to plan means you plan to fail!

The first step to getting the things you want is to DECIDE what you want!

For SCC - Balancing Life's Demands

Continuing the series Balancing Your Life Sunday's service was an overview of upcoming services with an emphasis on deciding to live with Christ at the center of your life. Below is a brief of the message.

When we live in imbalalnce we experience frustration and fatigue.

The following story told by Jesus and recorded in Luke in Chpt 15:11-21. 11Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.
13"Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.
17"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21"The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'

This man lived out of balance. His life became chaotic and frustrating because he was seeking to live for himself and away form any foundation. After doing some self evaluation he came to his senses and returned home. Scott encouraged us to do some self evaluation and decide to live with Christ as the center of our lives. We will be looking at the following areas iin the series: Finances, Mental/Thoughts, Physical Health, Spiritual Health and the importance of Friendships.

The message was closed with the following thoughts about taking action:
1.It’s never going to be any easier than it is today to do what God’s putting on your heart to do.
2.The longer the wait, the more damage.
3.Once you decide to do something, it’s amazing how quickly a change of heart can happen in our lives.

It is time to take action:

1.Take inventory
2.Make a plan
3.Establish Christ at the center of your life

201: Membership

Today I had the opportunity to lead SCC's 201 class. It was a good time. Fast and furious, yet a good time. Those in the class had already gone through SCC's 101 course and are very sharp people. I wish we would of had more time for discussion today because the brief discussion we did have was encouraging and beneficial to all in the class. It does my heart good to meet people who want to follow Jesus Christ and and recognize that God is working in their lives. It is encouraging to hear from others a desire to see God work in the lives of others and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Focus

Money - Helpful Forms

Financial Peace University - Helpful Forms

Crown Financial - Helpful Forms

Encouraging Words

Matthew 6:25-34

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Quote - Personal Growth

"Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves." Psychologist Carl G. Jung

Money - Funny, Yet Not

Leadership Thought

When you have a culture of disciplined people, you don't need hierarchy. When you have disciplined thought, you don't need bureaucracy. When you have disciplined action, you don't need excessive controls. When you combine a culture of discipline with a culture of entrepreneurship, you get the magical alchemy of great performance.- Jim Collins, Good to Great

Time

For SCC - Slowing Down 10-5-09

Sunrise began a new series this past Sunday. Below are the cliff notes to the service and message.

GLARE, the Music Team/Band, of Sunrise lead us in music that lead us to think about and encounter God. The DVD clip "Slow Down" was shown and GLARE played a cover song from Third Day that rocks and speaks to the heart and soul about slowing down in life.

Message Highlights:

Effects Of A Hurried Life:

A hurried life can lead you and me to experiencing and feeling more stress.

A hurried life can lead you and me to lose our sense of thanks and joy.

A hurried life can make us less productive.

In a hurried life we are most likely to make bad decisions.

In a hurried life we miss out on opportunities to share God's love with others.

God seems distant in a hurries life.

Slow Down:

S - Start your day with God.

This is about being in tune with God and empowered by God.

L - Learn to say "yes" and "no".

This is about life management and purpose.

O - Obey # 4.

This is about rest,relaxation and recognition of God.

W - Wait on God.

This is about trusting God.

Money - The Video Is Pretty Clear

Money - A Few Thoughts From The Bible

1. Proverbs 13:22 "A good man leaves an inheritance to his childrens' children."
2. Proverbs 21:20 "In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has."
3. Proverbs 22:7 states that "The rich rule over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender."
4. Luke 14:28 "For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it."
5. Matt. 6:24 "You cannot serve both God and money".

6. Philippians 4:10-13 "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

Money - Helpful Ideas

How To Prosper In A Declining Economy is a sweet little article. Take 5 and give it a read.

My Daughter the Senior

Matthew 7:24-29 The Message

24-25"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.
26-27"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards."
28-29When Jesus concluded his address, the crowd burst into applause. They had never heard teaching like this. It was apparent that he was living everything he was saying—quite a contrast to their religion teachers! This was the best teaching they had ever heard.

Money - Bail Out Comments

Dave Ramsey's Thoughts on the Bail Out

This makes sense to me. I had decided to contact my local congressman before hearing this from Ramsey. I have contacted my congressman via phone and email asking him to think through all options and choose the best for the taxpayers, and small business owners.

Money - A Budget or Financial Plan

A budget is simply a plan – a plan for how to spend the money we have. As Christians, we recognize that everything we have is a gift from God. We are not the owners; we are simply the managers of what He has entrusted to us. Knowing this fact should give us a better perspective on how we handle money. A budget is a great way to make sure we are handling money in the best way.Without a spending plan, it is impossible to know where your money goes each month and whether you will have available funds for the things you need. The “not knowing” can create feelings of anxiety and fear. Financial problems can cause stress in marriages and other relationships. When you create a spending plan, you can have the peace of mind in knowing that your bills can be paid, you have funds available for emergencies, and you know what you can spend for the things you need and want. The Lord blesses us with resources (or money) so that we can use it wisely to fulfill His purposes in our lives and further His kingdom. Without a plan for how to manage our finances, we may never reach our goals and experience true financial freedom.

Read this full article and find many other helpful financial tools at Crown Financial Ministries

I John 4:9-11

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love – not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other." - 1 John 4:9-11 (NLT)

Questions For Church Leaders

The following will help eval. and plan as we seek to plan worship experiences in order to reach people.

1. Will my friend feel welcomed?Principle: Hospitality – The atmosphere, nomenclature, and style of service should be inviting and not intimidating to the unchurched.
2. Will my friend fit in?Principle: Comfort and compatibility – Like it or not, invitations and visitor comfort decrease when social or cultural gaps exist.
3. Can I feel confident that I know how the service will turn out?Principle: Consistency – People need to know what to expect, because they will invite accordingly.
4. Will my friend get something out of it?Principle: Relevance – The message should be relevant and powerful for people at all spiritual levels.
5. Will my friend understand it?Principle: Understanding – Jesus taught through practical illustrations. The songs and message should be understandable for people at all spiritual levels.
6. Will everything that could seem strange to the unchurched be explained through Scripture?Principle: Sensitivity – Scriptural actions should be carried out with clarity and considerate explanation.

Having said all this, I am convinced of one thing. If members walk out of your service saying, “I wish my unchurched friend had been here,” they will start to think about inviting their friend. If a member walks out of your service three weeks in a row and says every time, “I wish my unchurched friend would have heard that,” nothing will stop that member from dragging that friend through your doors. The challenging thing is that often, when members walk out of churches, the only thing they can say is, “I wish my other church friends would have heard that.”

This information is adapted from Richard Reising’s book, Church Marketing 101

Leadership Thought

You Know You're Not Leading When...

Praying - Persevering

The great point is to never give up until the answer comes...
The great fault of the children of God is, they do not continue in prayer...they do not persevere.
If they desire anything for God's glory, they should pray until they get it.
George Mueller

As soon as the meal was finished, he insisted that the disciples get in the boat and go on ahead to the other side while he dismissed the people. With the crowd dispersed, he climbed the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone, late into the night. Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. At about four o'clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. "A ghost!" they said, crying out in terror.
But Jesus was quick to comfort them. "Courage, it's me. Don't be afraid."
Peter, suddenly bold, said, "Master, if it's really you, call me to come to you on the water."
He said, "Come ahead." Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, "Master, save me!" Jesus didn't hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, "Faint-heart, what got into you?" The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, "This is it! You are God's Son for sure!"

Really Good News - All religions are not are the same

I Peter 3:8-12

8 Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. 11 He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

For SCC - Myths We Believe About Relationships 9-14-08

MUTHBUSTERS continued this past Sunday. Below is a brief of Dr. Scott Salsman's (AKA - Salsa) message.

Myth: All my relationship problems are my spouses fault.
Truth: It takes two to Tango.

Myth: If our marriage takes hard work we must not be right for each other.
Truth: Marriage takes effort and work.

Myth: My spouse owes me (for all I do).
Truth: We are to be humble in our marriage and help one another.

Myth: My spouse can and should meet all my emotional needs.
Truth: That will not and cannot happen.

Myth: I shouldn't have to change the way I am to make our marriage work.
Truth: We all need to be changing and becoming more complete people.

Myth: My spouse should be like me.
Truth: We are different people. Men and Women are different and that is a good thing.

Scott used various Scripture throughout his message. The myths and truths can apply to all relationships not just in marriage. Scott used some thoughts from the following book. It is a fun and good read about marriage. Waffles and Spaghetti is just one resource from this couple.

Another Myth Busted

This comment ws recently left on a 9-7-08 post. I copied as is with a few spelling errors (no big deal) may this encourage you in your faithalk as we bust some myths. Keep going. Thanks for the comment anonymous. It will encourage others and bring hope to others. God Bless.

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "For SCC - Myths We Believe About God 9-7-08":

Heres one for your myth buster campaign...."because I am a Christian I will be able to figure things out (smartly, faster, to my advantage) because I have GOD on my side." MYTH ... BUSTED. In my newly, albeit, staggered, diaper riding walk with faith I am learning/accepting that everyday is a challenge and it is the little things that we don't see (immediate) that can and do affect our walk with Jesus. With that said as a new/renewed/wanting to be better Christian, I would be remissed not to admit that being a Christian "ain't easy". I guess that would be another myth. "I am a Christian and it is Easy"....BUSTED. Everyday is a challenge..not because it is a new day but because there is, and will always be, constant temptation/choices that, even though we think better, we submit(sp?), sometimes for the good of all Christianity and within the constraints/boundaries of our faith, but because sometimes the opposite, which then stimulates the guilt that can hinder our ability to rethink and/or revector our need/want/willingness to walk within our faith. I am commenting because I am in search of knowledge and understanding, in hopes that someday, somehow, things will get easier. It is through my faith that I know, because of my foundations (those brought to you courtesy of the Southern Babtist)and newly found faith from SCC, that through my faith, acceptance, want for my children, and myself that I can only/will make things easier by truly understanding what it means to live faithfully and have meaning in my life. I have found something anew in what I feel at SCC. I have found something that has reinvigorated my self-challenge to do better for my family, faith, and in context, what sometimes feels like a big black hole.

Thank you and Thank you....Keep on keeping on...and by that I mean feeding the minds of people like me who question, have doubts, and lack reason for the things that we do but desire to (even though we don't know what we hunger) for the love, sovereignty, acceptance, and forgiveness of Christ.

Pray For Someone - Feelin' Good

PRAY

Yet give attention to your servant's prayer and his plea for mercy, O LORD my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence. II Chronicles 6:19

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. II Chronicles 7:14

When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. Nehemiah 1:4

1 Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my sighing.
2 Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:1-3

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. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13

Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.
Jeremiah 42:3

Perfect Church Service

The perfect church service would be one we were almost unaware of. Our attention would have been on God. - C.S. Lewis

What Is God Like?

What do you think God is like?

One More Day

Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.
Joel 1:14

See the earlier blog about praying on Thursday, 9-11.

For SCC - Myths We Believe About God 9-7-08

The following is a brief of the message that started SCC's new series MYTHBUSTERS: Keeping It Real.

Myths We Believe About God

The following are not all the muths we tend to believe about God, but they will lead you to think through some of the core beliefs of Christianity and willhopefully lead you to think through some of your personal beleifs about God that you have just taken for granted and not really researched, studied and prayed through.

Myth: God's love must be earned
Busted: God loves you period. God's love cannot be earned.
John 3:16 I John 3:1 Ephesians 2:8-9 Romans 5:8

Myth: God hates the sin and the sinner.
Busted: God does not like sin, but he loves people.
John 8:1-11 I John 1:9

Myth: Because I am a Christian God will protect me from pain and suffering.
Busted: Pain and suffering are a part of life just as joy and hope are a part of life.
John 16:33

Myth: God can't use me unless I am spiritually mature and strong.
Busted: God desires to work in and through you to bring glory to Himself and joy and hope to you and others.
John 4, look close at verses 29 and 39 Philippians 1:6 Ephesians 2:10

God loves you and desires to work in your life. Humble yourself before God, recognize Him and discover and experience His wonderful work in your life. He will bless you and you will bless others. Decide to walk with God. Grow in your relationship with God. Process statements you may think about God or believe about God and test them with the real truth of God's Word. Be a Mythbuster.

Prayer on 9-11

On Thursday, 9-11, you and I have the opp. to join many other people in America to pray for a Jesus Christ Renewal in our country as we remember 9-11. Praying for America is a chance for you and I to make a difference as we talk to God about our lives, our families, our friends and America. By the way, as you and I are talking may we take some time to listen. Plan now to take soome planned and purposeful time in the morning, afternoon or evening to spend some focused time in communication with God about your family, your personal walk with God and for America.

Storm Fun

Having some fun in the storm.

Truth Is Good For The Soul

Serving Is A Good Thing

1It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. 2The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. 3Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" 7Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." 8"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." 9"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!" 10Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." 11For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. 12When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13"You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

MYTHBUSTERS - Cockroaches

Sunrise is going to busting some myths this month in our new series, but we will not be talking about cockroaches.

Aim Young

Thoughtful read and blog. Aiming Young seems right on to me. I want to reach all people, but realize I am a limited man and the church I pastor is a limited church. God is not limited and as we focus it seems God helps us reach more people. Visuals, Life Stories, Humor, Celebrative, New Ideas, Relelvant Messages, Music that is real, listened to on the radio and rockin', opportunites to connect, serving Jesus, and always seeking to reach out to the "not yet part of what God is doing". I thank God that the local church and some servants of JC from years ago did this so I had the opp. to become a part of what God is doing.

Truth

A Prayer

15 Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere, 16 I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, 17 asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. 18 I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. 19 I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power 20 that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 1:15-20

Leadership Thought

"I have discovered one great common denominator in every growing church, regardless of denomination or location: leadership that is not afraid to believe God. Growing churches are led by leaders who expect their congregation to grow. They are people of faith who believe the promises of God, even in discouraging times." - Rick Warren

Erwin McManus - Craving

Labor Day Weekend - New School Year - Looking Forward

For over 12 years now Labor Day Weekend has been the cue for the Nethery's entering into a new school year that begins the Tuesday after Labor Day. Friday Night Football, evening study time, stories of the day on campus over suppertime, some new clothes, new frienships, Dance Team, test, up at a regular time, meeting teachers, PTA stuff, Chorus events, and on and on the list goes. We enjoy the Friday Night Football. The excitement, the friends, the peanuts, the cool evenings turning into cold evenings, and yelling for our team. As I type this eve I am watching the US Open, preparing for a last summer dinner out with the family, watching my daughter make a shirt for her first day as a Senior in High School with a great deal of anticipation, and having personal feelings of "bummer" and "alright" as the Nethery clan transitions into the new school year with a Senior and a Sophomore. We have had a fun summer. The pool, pool parties, a day at Cherrystone Campground, M-Fuge, new friendships, learning about and processing relationships, lake vacations, beach days, Outer Bank days, surfing, tanning, Pro Kadima, Frisbee, lawn mowing, corn hole games, late nights, all nighters, and sleeping till late late morn. Yea Baby! What great summer days. Thank you God. As we look forward we are praying and hoping for a great fall and winter and creating fun and exciting memories. Thank you God.

Power Of Prayer

Prayer is the tiny nerve that moves God's mighty hand.

Taking A Break - New Series in Sept.

Hey, I'm going to take a break from blogging this week. Looking forward to a new series in Sept. "MYTHBUSTERS".

Psalm 150

1 Praise the LORD.
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness.
3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,
4 praise him with tambourine and dancing,
praise him with the strings and flute,
5 praise him with the clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.
6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD.

Trust

Sunrise Community Church dealt with this word this past Sunday. We encouraged people to offer themselves wholly to God and trust Him with all of their lives. This is an interesting clip. Think about it.

And when the Israelites saw the great power the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant. Exodus 40:31

And when the LORD sent you out from Kadesh Barnea, he said, "Go up and take possession of the land I have given you." But you rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. You did not trust him or obey him. Deuteronomy 9:23

O Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. II Samuel 7:28

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God ; trust also in me (Jesus). John 14:1

Good Soil

1That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 2Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 3Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 8Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9He who has ears, let him hear." 10The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" 11He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 13This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. 14In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:" 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. 15For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 16But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. 17For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. 18"Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. 22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. 23But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."

Ping Pong - Man I'm Good

This is me playing Ping Pong with my friends while in High School. This video was edited and played like it was a big tourney play. Not really. Just me and friend having some Table Tennis fun.

Luke 5:27-32

27 After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. "Follow me," Jesus said to him, 28 and Levi got up, left everything and followed him.
29 Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. 30 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" 31 Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."

Facing The Giants - Give It Your Best

Fun For The Nethery's

These pics and the brief video spell FUN for the Nethery's this summer.

Good Time

Good time at the Beach Baptism. The baptisms were exciting and it is great to be is a church that celebrates people coming to now Jesus Christ and following up in baptism. Thanks to those in SCC for helping people accept Christ and begin to grow in their faith walk with Jesus. Jesus Christ is Lord.

Praying

The Best Way To Pray

A priest, a minister and a guru sat discussing the best positions for prayer, while a telephone repairman worked nearby. 'Kneeling is definitely the best way to pray,' the priest said. 'No,' said the minister. 'I get the best results standing with my hands outstretched to Heaven.' 'You're both wrong,' the guru said. 'The most effective prayer position is lying down on the floor.' The repairman could contain himself no longer. 'Hey, fellas,' he interrupted. 'The best prayin' I ever did was when I was hangin' upside down from a telephone pole.'

My King

No Title

The week comes to a close. I will be working some this weekend. Admin stuff. Calendar stuff. Sharing Christ with people and baptizing people is the fun stuff. Thanks God for allowing me to serve You.

1Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 1But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. I Timothy 1:15-16

I learned the above verses many years ago and they are a very important part of my life and calling into the ministry. JC is real and He has changed my life. He is working in me and through me to touch the lives of others. Good Stuff.

The Prayer Of Relinquishment

A mother watched her son run into the house clutching his bloody hand. "Let me see!" she said. Backing away he cried, "No, you'll hurt me." When he finally opened his hand, instead of a major injury she saw a tiny scrape that bled a lot. As she marveled at his theatrics, she realized she'd done the same to God. When her husband left her she was so hurt, she refused to pray. God kept saying, "Let me help you," as she clenched her fists and said, "No, you'll hurt me." Once she realized this she gave it to God and her healing began. Catherine Marshall called this "the prayer of relinquishment," which means giving the situation to God, taking your hands off it completely, refusing to discuss it any further, and trusting the One who makes "all things work together for good" (Romans 8:28). That's why prayer makes it possible for you to stop struggling with the situation and have peace about it.

Cast you burdens upon the Lord and He will sustain you... Paslam 55:22a

This was taken from the Bob the Blogger link on my blog.

Jesus Christ Is Lord

Praying For Kristen Ellis

Keep praying for Kristen Ellis who is in El Salvador this week sharing Christ with others and helping Compassion International.

Beach Baptism This Sunday

Sunrise is having a Beach Baptism this Sunday. No snorkels needed. We are looking forward to baptizing people who recently made the decision to become followers of Jesus Christ. This is a step for them in faith and obedience towards growing in Christ and becoming totally committed followers of Jesus Christ.

I Corinthians 3:1-9

1Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. 2I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. 3You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? 4For when one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men? 5What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. 6I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 7So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. 9For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.

Leadership Thought From Rick Warren

The seven foundations of Jesus’ leadership by Rick Warren
There are no perfect leaders. I’m not a perfect leader. Neither are you. But Jesus is. There’s no better teacher on leadership than Jesus. What made him such as effective leader? Lots of reasons. In this article I’ll give you seven of them.
1. Identification: I must know who I am. To be a leader you’ve got to know who you are. All great leaders know their strengths and their weaknesses. We’re a bundle of both. Leadership is not ignoring one in favor of the other. It’s being honest about them. Good leaders don’t try to be something they are not. They are self-aware.
Jesus had no doubt about his identity. He said:
I am the light of the world.
I am the Son of God.
I am the way.
I am the truth.
I am the life.
I am the bread of life.
Jesus defines himself 18 times by saying, “I am…” He didn’t let other people define him. He defined himself. If you’re going to be a leader, you must know who you are.
2. Clarification: Know what you want to accomplish. You must clarify what God has called you to do with your life. The direction of your life is your choice. If you don’t like the direction your life is headed right now, change it. Nobody’s holding a gun to your head. Nobody’s making you a victim. Nobody’s forcing you to serve in the manner you’re serving.
Jesus knew exactly what God had called him to do. He was a straightforward leader who established clear-cut goals. In John 8 Jesus says, “I know where I came from and I know where I’m going.” Jesus had a clear purpose. He knew not only who he was, but what was he trying to do with his life. He truly was a purpose-driven leader. God has a purpose for your life and ministry. If you don’t fulfill it, you have wasted your life. You were put on earth to live for the purpose God created you for. A leader knows that purpose and pursues it with passion.
3. Motivation: Know who you’re trying to please. You need to settle the issue of motivation. You can’t please everybody. Just about the time you get one person happy, you’ll tick someone else off. Jesus lived for an audience of One. His whole purpose was to please his heavenly Father. Jesus says this in John 5, “I only try to please the One who sent Me.” Jesus wasn’t trying to win a popularity content; he just wanted to please God.
That’s a lesson we have to learn as leaders. You’ve got to learn not to care about the opinions of others. You’ve got to focus on God’s opinion of what you’re doing. Don’t pay attention to those who cheer you or jeer you. Either one will sidetrack you.
4. Collaboration: Work with a small group. You never lead by yourself. You always do it in context of a team. All great leaders are great team builders. In fact, if you don’t have a team, you’re not a leader. You’re a loner. The test of leadership is whether anyone is following you.
Jesus modeled this kind of ministry. He never did ministry alone. Mark 3:14 says, “He appointed twelve – designating them apostles – that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach.” Jesus enlisted other people to serve the cause with him.
If God gives you a vision for your ministry, he’s going to bring other people with the same idea together with you. If nobody agrees on your idea, guess what? It’s not from God.
5. Concentration: Focus on what’s important. Leaders must focus on what’s important. Life is filled with things that will distract you from what’s important. Sometimes we can be distracted by good things as well. If Satan can’t mess up your life by getting you to do wrong things, he’ll mess up your life by giving you too many good things to do. Jesus was a master of concentration. He focused his life like a laser. He refused to be distracted. Luke 9:51 says, “As the time drew near for his return to heaven, he moved steadily onward toward Jerusalem with an iron will.” He headed toward Jerusalem to die on the cross for us. He did it with an iron will. He would not let anything distract him from what was important. Your ministry has incredible potential. But that ministry potential won’t be realized until you decide what’s really important. Settle on what’s most important, and God will use your life like you could never imagine.
6. Meditation: Listen to God. Make listening to God a habit of your life. Jesus did. Prayer was a regular part of his life. The Bible tells us in Mark 1:35, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” If Jesus needed to get alone and listen to God, don’t you think that you need to? You need quiet times to reflect, renew, and recharge. You need time to just get alone, be quiet, and listen to God.
7. Relaxation: Take time to recharge. Leadership is draining. It’s hard work. We all need time to just relax. Jesus encouraged his very busy disciples to take some time for relaxation. Mark 6:31 says, “Crowds of people were coming and going so that they did not even have time to eat. He [Jesus] said to them [the disciples], ‘Come away by yourselves, and we’ll go to a lonely place to get some rest.’” Jesus realized the disciples had been busy serving, and they were tired. They needed a break. So he told them to get away and rest. Rest is so important that God put it in the Ten Commandments. The fourth commandment says this: every seventh day you take a day off. Pastor, this applies to you as well. You need a day away from the church.
Years ago I learned a key to lasting in leadership: divert daily, withdraw weekly, and abandon annually. Divert daily means doing something fun every day. Get a hobby. Do something that relaxes you. Withdraw weekly means you take a day off every week for relaxation and restoration. Abandon annually means you get away and forget everything for some time each year.

Your leadership is a key ingredient to helping your church become what God has called it to be. In fact, the Bible says this in Proverbs 11:14, “Without wise leadership a nation is in trouble.” That’s true of every single area of life. Without wise leadership, your church is in trouble. Learn about leadership from Jesus. We have no better guide.

Mighty To Save - Hillsong United

Evolution From A New Perspective

This is funny. At SCC we have created the word "creavolution" for creation and evolution. We believe in God and science. We believe God is the Creator and the Evolver. Helpful Information

Stickey Sayings

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

The Goal

This past Sunday I had the opportunity to lead the 1st - 5th Grade group at Sunrise with a couple of others who serve in Sunrise. It was fun. The children are responsive and enjoy being active and learning about God's love for them. We played THE BALLOON, THE BLOB, THE TARGET, and THE TOUCH. Each game had a specific goal to accomplish and throughout the lesson we would yell out the words "the goal". We learned from the Bible that God's main goal is to have a relationship with us, "Me". I thank God for the adults who serve in the Children's Ministry at SCC. They are helping children become totally committed followers of Jesus Christ. They are helping families walk with God. They are living a lasting legacy.

To El Salvador

This past Saturday, 8-9 08, Kristen Ellis left for El Salvador with a group of others with Compassion International so she could meet a child she sponsors through Compassion and do some various ministry in the area. It is a pleasure to serve with Kristen in SCC. Please pause for a moment and offer up a prayer for Kristen.

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

Leadership Thought

The most important quality in a leader is that of being acknowledged as such. - Andre Maurois

C-Kid - They're Back

C-Kidders arrived home this afternoon.

Some Sticky Thoughts

C-Kid - Excited and Thrilled

Just spoke with some Kidders. Awesome week. On the road home. Children had a great time and God touched many lives.

Forgiveness and Forgiving

This little booklet Forgiveness and Forgiving can be read online and is very good. I recommend that you take some time to look this over because this is a very real life issue. This information can lead you to a good start of living in and with forgiveness. I hope it helps you or someone you know. I has been helpful to me over the years.

Here SHE is, the USS New York, made from the World Trade Center. USS New York. It was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the World Trade Center. It is the fifth in a new class of warships designed for missions that include special operations against terrorists. It will carry a crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines to be delivered ashore by helicopters and assault craft. Steel from the World Trade Center was melted down in a foundry in Amite, LA to cast the ship's bow section. When it was poured into the molds on Sept 9, 2003, 'those big rough steel workers treated it with total reverence,' recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there. 'It was a spiritual moment for everybody there.' Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that when the trade center steel first arrived, he touched it with his hand and the 'hair on my neck stood up.' 'It had a big meaning to it for all of us,' he said. 'They knocked us down. They can't keep us down. We're going to be back.' The ship's motto? "Never Forget".

C-Kid - On The Way Home

The children and adults who have been a part of C-Kid will begin the trip home at around 11:00 AM this morning after a time of Bible Study, Closing Celebration and goodbyes. Thanks again for your prayers this week. Keep praying.

One Another

'Show mercy and compassion to one another' - Zechariah 7:9
'Love one another' - John 13:34,35
'Be devoted to one another' - Romans 12:10
'Live in harmony with one another' - Romans 12:16, 1 Peter 3:8
'Accept one another' - Romans 15:7
'Instruct one another' - Romans 15:14
'Agree with one another' - 1 Corinthians 1:10
'Greet one another with a holy kiss' - 2 Corinthians 13:12
'Serve one another in love' - Galatians 5:13
'Bearing with one another in love' - Ephesians 4:2
'Be kind and compassionate to one another' - Ephesians 4:32
'Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs' - Ephesians 5:19
'Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ' - Ephesians 5:21
'Admonish one another' - Colossians 3:16
'Encourage one another' - 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 3:13, Hebrews 10:25
'Spur one another on toward love and good deeds' - Hebrews 10:24
'Do not slander one another' - James 4:11
'Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling' - 1 Peter 4:9
'Love one another deeply' - 1 Peter 1:22
'Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another' - 1 Peter 5:5
'Have fellowship with one another' - 1 John 1:7

C-Kid - Lots of...

Lots of fun. Lots of learning. Lots of food. Lots of God. Lot of new relationships. Lots of new things being tried. Lots of sun. Lots of growth. Lots of smiles.

C-KId Update and Schedule

All is well. Having fun. Afternoon events going well. Nice weather. Keep praying. Awesome visuals and stage setting for worship service. Visit C-Kid Schedule to be aware of what is happening during the day. Keep praying.

Know That God Is God

A Recent Email From A Friend LOL

TICK WARNING!

I hate it when people forward bogus warnings, and I have even done it myself a couple times, unintentionally...but this one is real, and it's important ! So please send this warning to everyone on your e-mail list. If someone comes to your front door saying they are checking for ticks due to the warm weather and asks you to take your clothes off and dance around with your arms up, DO NOT DO IT ! THIS IS A SCAM ! They only want to see you naked.

I wish I'd gotten this yesterday. I feel so stupid.

Wide Open @ C-Kid

The group from Sunrise arrived at C-Kid yesterday and "everybody is wide open and having a great time" according to a voicemail that Ray Coleman left for me late last night. Thanks to everyone who gave financially in 2007 and 2008 in order to help with the expense of this week. Thanks for the prayers you are offering this week. Pray for children to learn of God's love for them and for others. Pray that the children will continue to be "wide open and having a blast". Ask God to help all in attendance at C-Kid to have a better understanding and living of CHRISTianity

Fun Day

Below is what I and others experienced on Monday, 8-4-08, at the beach near the Hatteras Lighthouse in NC. We were in the water from 9:00 AM - 2:45 PM. I knew it was time for me to get out of the water when I could no longer push myself on the surfboard and when the 15 year old boys with us were sitting on the beach with the look of exhaustion. Man, this was fun. Thanks to Wally Allen for going for it and teaching my family to enjoy surfing.

For SCC - Simmer Down Now!! 8-3-08

A new weekend series began this past weekend. The series is "From One To Outrageous: Learn and Live One Verse, Expect and Experience Outrageous Results". Sunday, 8-3-08 We looked at Psalm 46:10 "Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Below are some other translations of this verse:

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.

Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.

Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth!

Our God says, "Calm down,
and learn that I am God!
All nations on earth
will honor me."

Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.

Be still - stop, cease, quiet down, simmer down, gear down, calm yourself, take a "time out"

and know - understand, comprehend, experience first hand, learn, take a long look, research, examine.

that I am God - God is God, He is in control, He is working, providing, caring, forgiving and renewing.

I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth - God will be recognized by all.

3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 6 Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, 8 he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. 9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:3-11 New Living Translation

Mighty to Save

Psalm 46:10

Leadership Thought

Don't be in any rush to become a teacher, my friends. Teaching is highly responsible work. Teachers are held to the strictest standards. James 3:1 Found in the Bible

Acts 4:31-35

31While they were praying, the place where they were meeting trembled and shook. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak God's Word with fearless confidence.
32-33The whole congregation of believers was united as one—one heart, one mind! They didn't even claim ownership of their own possessions. No one said, "That's mine; you can't have it." They shared everything. The apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of the Master Jesus, and grace was on all of them.
34-35And so it turned out that not a person among them was needy. Those who owned fields or houses sold them and brought the price of the sale to the apostles and made an offering of it. The apostles then distributed it according to each person's need.