Build the Anointing in You and LIFT!

I had the privilege of preaching yesterday as we closed the current teaching series. I did a message with a great story from Tracy Skellern-Smith.


The message was called Build the Anointing in You and LIFT!

If you were not at the Celebration here is the link to the audio clip.

The track will be on the Westlife Church website podcast section soon.
http://podcast.westlifechurch.org.au/



In relation to speaking in tongues for an extended period and the benefits, check out these 2 previous posts about books from Joyce Meyer and Oral Roberts. Well worth a read!

Here are few quick phrases from the message:

Learning to live strong with God is not about opening a can of LIFT and shoving it down quick
It’s about cultivating a healthy, ongoing relationship with God through Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit lives in you – he dwells there.
To borrow from a great local real estate mogul –Holy Spirit has His Abode – in you!
God says, “your life is My Abode”

But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him. 1 John 2:27 (NKJV)

Every time you obey is like making a deposit into the bank of inner strength
Every act of submission is a kiss to your relationship with Jesus
Every time you say, “not my will but Yours, LORD” is an investment in your now and your future and the presence of God in and around your life.

Resignation Audio

It's been a very emotional season. And yesterday was no exception.

Pastor Steve Dixon from Hillsong Brisbane introduced our resignation section at the end of the Celebration. He was very generous about the launch, health and growth of Westlife Church.

If you were not at the Celebration here is a link the audio clip. Goes for about 30 minutes and Steve and Van pray for us at the end.

We closed with the Hillsong track, Stronger. I am glad the focus was on Jesus as we closed.

The track will be on the Westlife Church website podcast section soon.

That's here.... http://podcast.westlifechurch.org.au/

Important News - We Have Resigned

We have announced this morning to the great people at Westlife Church that we have resigned as Lead Pastors.

Our last Sunday will be Sunday 11 October 2009.

Pastor Steve Dixon from Hillsong Brisbane Campus this morning addressed the church and outlined the launch, growth and health of the church. That was very honouring.

Jillian and I have been overwelmed by the love and gratitude that people have expressed. Thanks.

Here is a bit of what we said this morning:

This has been a very tough decision – probably the toughest decision we have made so far in our lives. Yet it is also a relatively simply one.

When your values are clear, decisions become clearer.
We value our family, marriage and health – we value our children.
So these important things always come first....
We have sought prayed and read God’s Word – we have spent time with wise counsel – we have spoken to key people – we have looked at a lot of options – we have searched our hearts
– and we have come to this very difficult decision.
Parts of this decision are very sad – extremely sad
This decision will be very sad, even hurtful to some of you – we apologise for that.

Our family, marriage and health have been under a relentless pressure – and there is a deep weariness. Another family holiday will not fix this. 3 months off will not fix this.
We believe that resigning as Founding and Lead Pastors is the best choice for our family and for the church.

We are confident of a strong God – who is the head of this Church. This strong God knew this decision was coming – and He is not surprised.

We are confident of the God at work in you – some of you will be shaken for a season –but that will turn into a kingdom resolve that will fuel the next level of health and growth at Westlife
We love you all – we have prayed for you in advance – we have some good people around us and our church - we have set some things in motion that will position you for a great new leader or leaders.

We are thankful for this opportunity and privilege to lead you – it is coming up 4 years for some of you. These have truly been the Wonder Years for us – the establishment of a vibrant local church in a growth corridor.

Thank you for the privilege of leading you and being your pastors.

The team are planning a Farewell Celebration for Sunday PM 11 October 2009 - probably at about 6pm.

Transitions - New Teaching Series - Spring 2009

The Bible says that there is a time for everything...... and there is a time for change... and transitions.

I am really looking forward to this new Sunday morning teaching series.

I believe that it will really help people in all areas of their life... and how to understand and prepare for life's changes.

See you for part 1 - Sunday 13 September 2009 10am.

"S" is for Saturday and Soccer

It was Jethro's last game of soccer today.

We have had a great season.

Are You Getting the Point? - Dr Gary Chapman

Communication is easy until you have a disagreement.

So, how do we process conflicts without arguing? Most of us are far better at "making our point" than in "getting the point" of the other person.

Listening has to do with trying to look at the world through the other person's eyes. It's not that difficult if you try. Once you can truthfully say, "I think I understand what you are saying, and it makes sense." Then you can say, "Let me tell you how I'm thinking, and see if it makes sense to you."

Two people who listen long enough to affirm each other can then find a win-win solution.

Arguments reveal the heart. Almost always arguments grow out of unmet emotional needs. One wife said, "Little things like getting the old newspapers out to the garage for recycling is not a big deal to him, but it is to me because I hate clutter. It's kind of a visual thing." What is she saying? One of her emotional needs is to have order in the house. Clutter is emotionally upsetting to her.

The wise husband and wife will look for the emotional need behind the argument.
Why is my spouse so upset over what seems trivial to me? The answer to that question will help you understand your spouse. Meeting emotional needs for each other is one way to create a positive climate for communication.

Steve Dixon This Sunday 10am

I am looking forward to Steve Dixon visiting this Sunday at Westlife.

He is helping Tracy and I bring a BIG finish to our current LIFT! teaching series.

Steve is a great man and leader - please make sure if you are close that you get on along.

The Ticket - An "Open for Business" Tool

It's time to "reach out" with a ticket and invite people to the upcoming Saturday Night LIVE (Dad's Edition).

I got the idea recently while praying. Something as simple as a "free" ticket can be an "Open for Business" tool.

Get from the HUB or Connect Table on a Sunday.

I am really looking forward to this opportunity to honour the men and dads this Father's Day Weekend.

Councillor Morrison to Walk Across Ipswich City

Go for it, David!!!

3 Words to Change the World - Lee Colan

Some people literally change the world; people like Ghandi, Mother Theresa, Abraham Lincoln, Ben Franklin.

Although it’s an ambitious goal to change the world, we often underestimate our singular power to change the world of those around us.
We don’t have to be Oprah giving away new cars to positively change someone’s world.
We each have that same power.
We don’t even have to do anything!
We only have to say three simple words.

Try one of these three-word, power-packed statements to change someone’s world:

§ I love you.
§ I thank you.
§ You are terrific.

§ I am sorry.
§ I trust you.
§ I promise you. (and keep it!)

§ God bless you.
§ I can help.
§ I understand you.

§ You are talented.
§ I believe you.
§ You will succeed.

§ You inspire me.
§ It’s no problem.
§ I forgive you.
§ You’re the best!

Whether we have a long conversation with a friend or simply place an order at a restaurant, every word makes a difference. The results of our interactions are rarely neutral; they are almost always positive or negative.

Ask yourself, "Do my words reflect my commitment to helping others, creating win-wins, continuously learning, embracing change, supporting my team's success?"

Words are the seeds of commitment. We plant the seeds with each movement of our lips. Once they are spoken, our words either grow in the form of an immediate response or they take time to germinate. Whether the result becomes apparent sooner or later, we cannot speak words of failure and defeat and expect a life of success and victory.

Plant the seeds of success in someone’s mind and heart today.
You’ll start a positive ripple effect that can be felt by many people and many miles away, not to mention the positive effect you will feel inside.

Do not do a thing! Just say three simple words.

I will close with a three-word challenge: JUST SAY IT!

Charles Schultz Philosophy

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions.

Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?
The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with

Easier?

The lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia.'
(Charles Schultz)

Sunday Morning with Peter Janetzki

We had a fantastic Sunday AM with the Oasis Church crew and Peter
Janetzki.

I was inspired.

And we get to do it again tonight @ 7pm for 2 sessions.

Focus on Excuses or Focus on Solutions

Focus on excuses, and every challenge is a stumbling block.
Focus on solutions, and every challenge becomes a stepping stone.

During one of Franklin D. Roosevelt's election campaigns, his campaign manager was about to print 3 million copies of the candidate's acceptance speech with his photograph alongside. Then someone pointed out that the photographer had never given permission to use the photograph. According to the copyright laws at that time, you could be fined a dollar per copy for publishing unauthorized photographs. The campaign couldn't take a $3 million hit.

The campaign manager felt a tinge of panic, but instead of thinking up excuses or finding someone to blame, he kept his cool and started considering ways to handle the situation. Could this disaster be turned into a dividend?

He had an idea.

He cabled the photographer: "I have a plan that could mean a great deal of publicity for you. What's it worth to you if I use your photo on this campaign material?" The photographer cabled back: "I can't afford more than $250."

It was a deal!

By focusing on finding a solution, FDR's campaign manager was not only able to prevent great embarrassment and fines, but he also forged a lasting relationship between the photographer and FDR's administration—and he got a pretty good deal for a crucial photo.

(adapted from Lee Colan)

Peter Janetzki - 2 Great Opportunities

The Monday night sessions are as follows:

session 1* — Raising Kids to be Champions
session 2* — Raising Boys to Be Great Men

tickets $5 per person / limited seats

Practical, funny & informative presentations on parenting with Peter Jantetzki - educator & counsellor - host of Brisbane’s 96five 'Talking Life' & featured on “Choices TV” (ch 7)

* Session 1 (7pm to 8pm) / session 2 (8.15pm to 9.15pm / ticket price covers both sessions

Tickets & more details phone
- Oasis Church 3282 0847 - New Life Church 3288 1716 - Westlife Church 3381 9988 - Springfield Christian Family Churches - 3818 1348 // 0421 115 420

Saturday Night LIVE - Dad's Edition - Sat 5 Sept 09

Here are some more details of our Saturday Night LIVE - Dad's Edition - Saturday night 5 September 09.

Have I told you that I just love fireworks??!!!

And it is all at the USQ Main Auditorium Springfield - Sinnathamby Blvd, Springfield Central.

Change of Location - This Sunday AM - Excited and Concerned

We have a different location for this Sunday morning.

We will be at the Woodcrest College Gym Hall (Nev Smith Drive, Springfield)

I am excited .... and also somewhat concerned.

I am excited about our special guest. It is a privilege to have someone of Peter Janetzki’s calibre. He will be inspiring. And he will be worth inviting someone to hear him.

I am excited about his content too - it will help families alot - and will help them build in healthy ways and generationally.

And I am excited that we get to bunk in with the crew from Oasis Church. I really appreciate their pastor, Brett Swann.

But I am also concerned - that some people
1. will not remember the change of location - and will turn up at the wrong spot – and at the wrong time – and late
2. will not invite people to hear a practical message from a great speaker
3. will not turn up because they think the content will not interest them – that they will have the Sunday off.

This has happened before when we have changed location.

So I am putting it out there.... excited... and concerned.

It will be a great morning. Hope I see you there.

Something About Sundays - Steve Penny

I read this blog post earlier in the week from Steve Penny.

I am really enjoying his writing recently.

Here it goes......

Some things happen on Sundays that don’t take place any other day of the week.

I usually receive messages from friends who are also up very early preparing for a great day in church. I then wait to hear the sounds of the musicians starting to set up down in our auditorium.

And then soon the masses begin to arrive and the sounds of many people in one place can be heard. Church then begins and the praise and worship starts to lift and many people in one place now become one people with one heart.

I love preaching. I love what it does in people’s lives. God’s word changes us as we receive it in faith.

And then it is over and we leave as one people with one purpose for another week.

Without church on a weekend our weeks would not have a defining point. For me church is the beginning and launching pad for another week of great exploits. I love being all together in one place and waiting for the God moment to happen. There always is a God moment when His people gather. You just have to be looking for it.

Can’t wait for next Sunday for another God moment with the greatest people on earth.

Bring it on.

I agree!

What do you think about Sundays?

Love Like That!

Jill and I found this great verse yesterday.

Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.
Ephesians 5:2 (MSG)

This is very powerful...... "learn a life of love” ... "observe how Christ loved us" ... "love like that!"

Love like that!

Mr Ipswich - Queensland Times

Here is some more information about the Mr Ipswich competition from last Friday.

We also get another picture of Ray B.

Mr Ipswich - Candidate Ray Bondzulic

It was great to see Channel 9's Today Show on Friday and their "Mr Ipswich" contest.

One of the 3 finalists was Westlife News producer, Ray (Raymond) Bondzulic.

We showed this clip at Westlife this morning.

Here it is again below in case you missed it.

Great work Ray!

(and thanks to a vigilant Pete Williams with a remote control!)

10 Principles of Spirit-Filled Discipleship - Jack Hayford

I have been using these 10 Principles of Spirit-Filled Discipleship from Ps Jack Hayford recently in a range of ways.

Here is the complete list from his book, Living the Spirit-Formed Life.

THE FIRST DISCIPLINE: COMMITTING TO HEAR GOD’S VOICE
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27)

THE SECOND DISCIPLINE: LIVING IN THE POWER OF BAPTISM
“But Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness’.” (Matt. 3:15)

THE THIRD DISCIPLINE: THE RESOURCES OF THE LORD’S TABLE
“Take, eat; this is my body … Drink from it, all of you.” (Matt. 26:26,27)
........... living in the shadow of the Cross.

THE FOURTH DISCIPLINE: THE SPIRIT OF FORGIVENESS
“I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?” (Matt. 18:32,33)

THE FIFTH DISCIPLINE: FEEDING ON THE WORD OF GOD
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”
(Matt. 4:4)

THE SIXTH DISCIPLINE: MAINTAINING INTEGRITY OF HEART
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matt.5:8)

THE SEVENTH DISCIPLINE: ABIDING IN THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT
“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” (John 7:38)

THE EIGHTH DISCIPLINE: LIVING A LIFE OF SUBMISSION
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”(Matt. 16:24)

THE NINTH DISCIPLINE: THE PRACTICE OF SOLITUDE
“Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.” (Mark 1:35)

THE TENTH DISCIPLINE: THE LIFE OF A WORSHIPER
“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.” (John 4:23)

We Have Podcasts!

I mentioned recently that Shane was putting in a great effort to get Westlife Podcasts up and running on the church website.

Well, last night he has done it!

You can go to our church website here or type http://westlifechurch.org.au and click the orange podcast option... just like in this photo.


It will then take you to a page that looks like this.

You will need to download Microsoft Silverlight (option where you open the page) which lets you listen to the podcast on our website. Otherwise download the podcast to your computer.

(PS -Microsoft Silverlight is less that 5MB to download and install, and is a great, safe product)

Changes will be made to the site soon where you can download the notes for the message in most cases.

We are also working on converting the files to MP3 so you can podcast subscribe on iTunes. The link for the RSS is http://podcast.westlifechurch.org.au/rss.xml

Thanks Shane .. and to those people who helped in the testing phase!

Peter Janetzki on Parenting - Monday Night 24 August 2009

There are 2 great opportunities to invite your friends.

Do it!

Peter is an excellent communicator.

Tickets are $5 for the Monday night for the 2 sessions.

Vision Builds Cummulatively

I was thinking recently about the ways that the vision builds @
Westlife. One of the ways is through annual God-themes.

They are 1 word prophetic statements that encapsulate what God wants to do as He
builds His church.

It's been going like this.....
2006 - Launch
2007 - Surge
2008 - Favour
2009 - UNLEASHED!

It's a bit like a jigsaw puzzle ... or bricks in a wall.

Classic Tweets - Rick Warren

Human Touch - Toyota Style - Media Clip

Check out great media clip below.

It is called Human Touch. Nice one, Toyota

PS - looks like a recession-busting strategy - no Toyota employee will be retrenched during this current global economic turndown!

Centre Stage - Weekly Themes

Our Big K's leader, Mel Hunt, did a great guest post yesterday about the new Center Stage series at Westlife Kids.

The new series starts this Sunday!

Here is a sample of the quality weekly themes and artwork.

As a parent I am inspired at the quality teaching coming though.

Rick Warren on Twitter

Here is what Rick Warren recently wrote about Twitter.

Nice one, Rick!

You’ve likely heard of TWITTER, the free internet text messaging tool that millions of people use to connect with each other on their cell phones and computers. I use it daily to keep in touch with pastors around the world.

For years, I declined to use Twitter thinking it was probably a frivolous waste of time. My staff tried to get me to start using it 3 years ago when it launched July ’06, but it seemed so narcissistic.

But recently, John Piper and I preached a funeral together and I saw John’s article on why he uses Twitter for ministry. I realized the powerful possibility of using this free tool to stay in contact with other pastors. Instead of answering the question, “What are you doing? (boring!) I use Twitter to encourage leaders and share what I’m thinking.

Connecting to each other through Twitter has several benefits:

1. You can share with me any immediate crisis or great celebration the moment it happens. It would be my privilege to “weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice.” Sharing your victories always doubles the joy. Sharing hurts halves the pain.

2. I can share with you my personal thoughts and insights on ministry throughout the day. I send these out to my friends several times a day.

3. I can alert you instantly about national and global events that have impact on our ministries the moment the news breaks.

I hope you’ll join me today. Here’s where to see some of what I’ve written and how to sign on now.

See you on Twitter!

Center Stage - New Westlife Kids Series - Mel Hunt

I am excited about the new Westlife Kids series starting this Sunday.

It's called Center Stage.

Here is a message from our Big K's leader, Mel Hunt. She is excited and so am I!!!


Do you want to learn to live a life of worship?
Starting this Sunday Westlife Kids will be doing that!

We will be following along on tour with world famous worship band Cloud9 as they teach an up and coming artist what worship is allabout.We will get an all-exclusive look at behind the scenes footage of the band as they crisscross the world to make God's Name famous!

The new Elevate Series, Center Stage, looks at eight aspects of worship that I’m sure will inspire your kids to live a life that is centered around God.

When we think about worship, we usually think of singing and that is usually at church in our Sunday celebrations. But that is not just the only aspect of worshiping our awesome God, which we will be learning about.

Westlife kids will be learning through great examples in the Bible, stunning visuals, interactive games and craft activities. These graphics are examples of the weekly posters we have displayed, which show our weekly main points.

We start the series learning the ultimate truth, that only God is worthy of our worship and praise. The Westlife Kids team is excited to be teaching this topic because we know, worshipping God is what we are created for and there is no better thing to do.

To see Westlife Kids as young as three worshipping God by dancing, singing, serving in our house, putting their pocket money in the collection, is inspirational.

Worship is an action that we do all day, everyday; a lifestyle. To be teaching that foundational truth to this new generation is a great privilege and honour.

Thank you for entrusting your kids to us, and know we love partnering with you in sharing the greatness of God.

Good one, Mel!!

Tomorrow I will post some examples of the great weekly themes and artwork.

#whygather?

I have been enjoying the #whygather? tag on Twitter in recent weeks.

It was started by Ps Brian Houston and has gained soem great momentum.

It got me thinking about the power of church and gathering and believers.
For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.

Matthew 18:20

I WAS glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord!

Psalms 122:1

We will be showing collections of the #whygather? Twitter entries in coming Sundays.

Here is a sample in the media clip below. Enjoy!

You can get your own reveleation by going on the Twitter website and searching for #whygather? or #whygather

Greater Springfield Community Inc

We have been working for many months now gathering like-minded people together.

It all started June 2008 with the USQ Western Corridor Summit that I attended. I wrote about it here.

We developed the Greater Springfield Advisory Group. And now we are incorporating Greater Springfield Community Inc.

Here is an article that appears on the latest Delfin Springfield Lakes Update. Wow!!

Just Walk Across the Road... or Room ... or Street

I have been blogging in recent days about this week's REACH and Just Walk Across the Room focus ... and getting us ready for a new season of inviting. Spring is coming!


If you missed the post I did on Saturday with Steve Penny it's worth catching up on here.


It's as simple as Just Walking Across the Road... or Room ... or Street... or picking up the phone.


Off you go!

Westlife News - "Crib" News

This edition of Westlife News is well worth checking out!

Ray and Lourdes have done another great job using the MTV" Cribs" theme.

Click below to view the media clip.

One of my favourite bits is the #whygather? theme from Twitter.

A Meeting in Hell

Janet S sent this through by email recently.

Very interesting.

Satan called a worldwide convention of demons.

In his opening address he said,
"We can't keep Christians from going to church."
"We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth."
"We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with their Saviour."
"Once they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken."

"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, BUT steal their time, so they don't have time to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ.."
"This is what I want you to do," said the devil:
"Distract them from gaining hold of their Saviour and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!"

"How shall we do this?" his demons shouted.

"Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds," he answered.
"Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow."
"Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty lifestyles."
"Keep them from spending time with their children."
"As their families fragment, soon, their homes will offer no escape from the pressures of work!"
"Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice."
"Entice them to play the radio or cassette player whenever they drive."
"To keep the TV, VCR, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly."
"This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ."
"Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers."
"Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day."
"Invade their driving moments with billboards."
"Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes.."
"Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines and TV so their husbands will believe that outward beauty is what's important, and they'll become dissatisfied with their wives..."
"Keep the wives too tired to love their husbands at night."
"Give them headaches too! "
"If they don't give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to look elsewhere."
"That will fragment their families quickly!"
"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the real meaning of Christmas."
"Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about his resurrection and power over sin and death."
"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive."
"Have them return from their recreation exhausted."
"Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on God's creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies instead."
"Keep them busy, busy, busy!"
"And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences. "
"Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus."

"Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause."
"It will work!"
"It will work!"

It was quite a plan!

The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busier and more rushed, going here and there, having little time for their God or their families.

Having no time to tell others about the power of Jesus to change lives.

I guess the question is, has the devil been successful in his schemes?
You be the judge!!!!!

Thoughts??

Classic Tweets - Christine Caine

I started a new thing recently called Classic Tweets.

You can check out my first entry here.

This latest collection goes to Christine Caine.

She had a great week.

Twitter on!!

Westlife News - Visual Vision

Just got back from Ray and Lourdes' home where we shoot and produce Westlife News.


We were putting the final touches on a new news edition. It looks fanatastic - and very different!


Can't wait to see it on the BIG screen - and for people to laugh!


The news is really "visual vision"... not simply "announcements."

Watch this blog tomorrow and I will post a low res version.

Podcasts Page - Almost There!

Shane has been doing a great job getting us close to launching our weekly podcast page.

Here is an image of the draft!

Not long now!

Crossing the Witness Line - Steve Penny

We have been speaking recently about being "Open for Business."

We did some intense training, preaching and inspiring about reaching out to others in our Just Walk Across the Room series in February 2009.

I read this great post this week from Steve Penny. Here it is... and it's work checking out... all the way to the end.

Enjoy!!!!

Some time ago Marion and I had the privilege of visiting Israel. I was fascinated with the Holy Land as place after place gave new meaning to the scriptures I have read since a child.
One of the most fascinating scenes was the valley in which David fought the Philistine giant – Goliath. It was so interesting to see the size of the valley and the distance David had to run to actually engage the giant in battle.

Contrast this to earlier that day when David arrived at the battle scene, only to watch his brothers and Sauls’s army flee from the fight whenever Goliath roared in defiance.

I have been very challenged of late in regard to giving in – on the witness front.
I can identify with David’s brothers who had been in the battle fray for some time. They knew the strength of opposition and the defiant nature of the brutal giant opposing them.
In other words they had been intimidated by their enemy.

David arrives and suggests that God can break through and give them a huge victory. When challenged he responds with the classic line, ” Is there not a cause worth fighting for?”

I suggest that the witness line must be crossed in absolute boldness – with a do or die attitude – to see great results.

To back away every time someone says they are not interested in religious matters, is to run from the battle at the first sound of defiance.

David was not concerned about protecting his reputation or his standing in the community. He knew that the armies of God were being challenged and that this position had to be reversed.
Sometimes when the situation regarding your witness seems to be going against you – it is time to raise the stakes and cross the line and go on all out attack.

In the book I read – God wins, and so I suggest we raise the stakes and start to run toward some of these arrogant opposers who so easily belittle our Christian faith. Not in an angry or violent physical manner but with the most lethal of all spiritual weapons – the love of God.

There is no force created that can withstand the power of God’s love. Go for it. Invade someone’s space with unqualified love and watch them melt before the presence of God. Talk to them with genuine God kind of love – and it will stop them in their tracks – like a stone to the forehead.

However in order to get close enough to unleash God’s love, you must boldly cross the witness line to engage those still lost on the battlefront of life.

What are you doing this public holiday Wednesday?

LIFT Part 1 - with Special Guest Max the Manequin

I really enjoyed the start of our new LIFT series last Sunday AM.

I had special guest "Max the Manequin" helping me. Here are some photos of Max and I.

I used a firehose and "Max" to demonstrateHoly Spirit baptism and fullness as follows:

The initial baptism in Holy Spirit is once-for-all experience that never needs to be repeated. But drinking from the river of the Spirit that now flows from within is something that each believer needs to do regularly.

For this reason Paul uses a continuing tense when he says: “Be [continually] filled [and refilled] with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).

And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit. Ephesians 5:18 (AMP)

Continual feeding on God’s word and drinking of God’s Spirit are essential for a life of victory and fruitfulness

Max did look worried when I pulled out the cordless drill and gave him a mortal wound to the heart!

Here is a media clip from the start of the message. Here is where I introduce "Max" and have some fun.

Click the clip below.

Are You Open For Business?

Are You Open For Business?

Here is a reminder about this great day could be for you … and for us as a church.
It next Wednesday 12 August. It's a public holiday!

Next Wednesday 12 August can be all about being “open for business,” and “Brian” and “being led by God’s Spirit,” and “just walking across the street,” and “just picking up the phone. ”

I am inspired by this quote:

“What if redirecting a person’s forever really is as simple as walking across a room”
Bill Hybels, JWAR [p.22]

Numbers - with Lee Colan

Lee Colan inspired me again with a recent email

Here is a summary - it's about numbers and different numbers (the number is in "red"):

1 – Thought, word or action can change the world.

We each have the power to create a positive ripple, effecting many people many miles away. We can change the world of those around us. This also creates a powerful ripple effect inside each of us – it feels good!

3 – Hours of reading per day that Zig Ziglar still invests to this day!

A reader is a leader.

8 – Years the average person spends eating during their lifetime.

10 – Positive customer experiences required to counteract a single negative customer experience.

28 – Years the average person spends sleeping over the course of a lifetime.

45 – Percent of those who read an e-newsletter who read it from start to finish.

52 – Years old when Ray Kroc founded McDonald's

It's never too late to start working on your dream!

65 –Percent of workers report receiving no recognition for good work in the previous year according to a Harris Poll.

We do more for those who appreciate us. So, challenge yourself to sincerely and specifically recognize at least three positive contributions each day. I know you will see the difference in your team's discretionary effort if you take this challenge.

70 – Percent of New Year's resolutions that fail within a month.

100 – Percent of the time that someone who perseveres will win.

Infinity - People who help us succeed along the way.

Success is not a solitary achievement. It is achieved with the help of others along the way.

God Charts the Road You Take

I have been really encouraged and inspired by this verse/phrase recently.

It kind of "hovers" over me..... and it is very reassuring.

God charts the road you take. ....
Psalms 1:6 (MSG)

Love it!!!

I reckon there is a song in there somewhere......

10 Blog Tips - Mark Batterson

Following on from yesterday's post about "Why I Blog" here is another great post from Mark Batterson.

You can get the full post here.

Here is a chunk of his blog post.

In quantitative terms, blogging is the most important thing I do. I view it as a form of digital discipleship. Not a substitute for one-on-one. But a great supplement.

As NCC grows larger, I feel like it's a way that our congregation can know what is going on in my head and my heart at any given moment. Twitter takes that to another level by the way!

Blogging came pretty naturally to me because I've always kept a journal. But over the years I've learned a few do's and don'ts.

Here are ten of them.

I view them as my personal guidelines for blogging.

1) Stay Positive - Life is too short and the Kingdom Cause is too important for the sideways energy of negativity! In my opinion, too many blogs try to stir up controversy. And it's almost always someone who has a very small readership. A blog is not a license to go negative or take potshots.

2) Include Hyperlinks - Remember the fear that technology would turn us into nameless, faceless autobots? That it would kill community. Again, it's no replacement for face-to-face. But I think it's had the exact opposite effect. It brings people together in amazing ways. And one way that happens is by linking to one another.

3) Keep it Short and Sweet - It's a blog not a book!

4) Don't let commentors hijack your blog - Here is a personal rule of thumb. When people post comments I try to discern the spirit behind the comment. If I feel like someone is trying to bait me or hijack my blog then I resist the temptation to go there. Here's one lesson learned. If someone's comment is longer than your post they might have an agenda! I do think it's healthy to engage in respectful debate. But don't let it cross the line.

5) Tell Your Wife About It Before You Blog About It - Guess how I learned this lesson? If your family has to read your blog to know what is going on in your life something is wrong! One critical decision you have to make is how transparent you're going to be. I try to be emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually transparent. But I do have boundaries. For example, I don't post pictures of my kids.

6) If You Wouldn't Say it to Their Face Don't Blog It - Again, I think we need civility and respect. I think there are ways to rebuke, exhort, and correct via blog. But do it in a gracious and redeeming way. Here's the problem. That takes far more work! Meanness is laziness. Tactfulness is hard work.

7) Know Your Audience - Would you blog if no one read it? I think that's a good litmus test. Obviously, if you are blogging you are doing it so people can read it. But I primarily blog for myself--it's my journal. It's the way I keep track of what God is doing in my life. But you also have to be cognizant of your audience. I have two primary audiences: pastors and NCCers. From a numbers standpoint, pastors are my primary audience. From a personal standpoint, NCC is my primary audience. I also know their is a growing audience amongst those who have read one of my books.

8) Be Yourself - A blog ought to be as unique as you are. It takes a while to find your voice. But don't worry if it's different. Different is good. I ought to be able to figure out your personality type by reading a month of entries!

9) Find Your Rhythm - Part of blogging is finding a way for it to fit your lifestyle. I think it's critical that you be consistent. Consistency is key! But don't revolve your life around your blog. Your blog needs to revolve around you! By the way, I used to think that my blog supplemented my sermons. Not so sure. Now I wonder if my sermons supplement my blog.

10) Stay Positive - I know. I know. I listed it twice!

Why I Blog - Mark Batterson

I have been asked to speak to some pastors this AM about blogging.

I was was asked 2 months ago to do the same to a different group of pastors.

I like blogging.

And was really inspired by a great blogging pastor - Mark Batterson (National Community Church, Washington DC).

Here is a link to a great blog post he did ages ago.

And here is his list.... enjoy!

I thought I would hit the pause button and share the top ten reasons why I blog:

1) I want to be a good steward of God ideas. My blog is one way I "take my thoughts captive"--II Corinthians 10:5.

2) Too often we remember what we should forget and forget what we should remember. My blog helps me remember what God doesn't want me to forget.

3) Blogging is therapeutic. It helps me process thoughts and emotions.

4) Habakkuk 2:2 says, "Write down the revelation." Blogging is one way I write down what God is revealing to me.

5) Blogging is a form of digital discipleship. I can't disciple a thousand people one-on-one or face-to-face. Blogging is asyncronous discipleship. It's e-vangelism.

6) Blogging is marking my trail with breadcrumbs like Hansel and Gretel. Jeremiah 31:21 says, "Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Mark well the path by which you came."

7) I blog for posterity. My grandkids will know what I was doing and thinking on February 11, 2006. They'll be able to know my heart and read my mind.

8) Blogging is a form of autobiography. It helps me understand God's storyline for my life.

9) Blogging makes NCC an open-source church. For better or for worse, my blog is the way I share what we're doing at NCC.

10) I enjoy blogging. I don't think it comes natural to everyone. But I've always journaling. Blogging fits the rhythm of my life and ministry.

Blog on.

I'll post another post about blogging tomorrow morning - so stay tuned.

The Waiting .... and the Bursting Forth!

I wait for the Lord to help me, and I trust his word.

I wait for the Lord to help me more than night watchmen wait for the dawn, more than night watchmen wait for the dawn.

Psalms 130:5-6 (NCV)

His Face Shines on You!

I just wrote another post about the rising sun today.


I really sensed God's love for me.... I am a son of the King... and His face shines on me.


I snapped this image... a bit raw.... but I captured a powerful & very personal God-moment.


The Lord bless you and watch, guard, and keep you;
The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favour) to you;
The Lord lift up His [approving] countenance upon you and give you peace (tranquility of heart and life continually).
Numbers 6:24-26 (AMP)

"Get out of bed, Jerusalem! Wake up. Put your face in the sunlight. God's bright glory has risen for you..."
Isaiah 60:1 (MSG)




PS - yes! I need to brush my hair early in the AM.

Coffee!

"Have I told you lately that I ...." like good coffee?

Here is a recent sample. And it was Di Bella beans too!

How Chinese Multiply - Very Clever

I was sent this media clip recently.

Am I glad that I opened it and watched it!!!

It is very clever..... and I am thinking, "why did they not teach me this at school??!!!"

How Chinese Multiply ..... very clever

New L.I.F.T. Series = Re-enACTS series 2.0

We start the new L.I.F.T. series this morning.

I am linking this series to our previous Re-enACTS series in March 2009.

Here is a link to one of the previous blog posts about Holy Spirit.

It is well worth digging around the March 09 blog archives or doing a search with the tag "Re-enACTS."

It's time to do it all over again - and grow in fruitfulness and daily live in power.

The initial baptism in Holy Spirit is once-for-all experience that never needs to be repeated. But drinking from the river of the Spirit that now flows from within is something that each believer needs to do regularly.

For this reason Paul uses a continuing tense when he says:

“Be [continually] filled [and refilled] with the Spirit” - Ephesians 5:18.

"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit" - Ephesians 5:18 (AMP)

Continual feeding on God’s word and drinking of God’s Spirit are essential for a life of victory and fruitfulness.

New Westlife PULSE Released Today

Today is the day when we release the new Westlife PULSE - for the month of August.


And is there another great month coming up.


Grab your copy this morning in the BIG House!