daddy4ms

Preach the gospel and if necessary use words.  This is not evangelism/missional. We must use words. Colossians 4:2-6 2 Pronged Approach- Gifted evangelists-Pray for opportunities and boldness Others-respond to people's questions about Jesus.  Are our lives worth questioning?  Live a life that is different so people ask why. We are filled with the Holy Spirit of love. We must be counter cultural. When we live like this, people are drawn to us and ask why. Listening to people is intriguing. What would be more questionable than a Southern Baptist preacher at a margarita/card playing night? How questionable is your life? Do you evoke anyone's curiosity? Live a questionable life!

Last week, I got away from my regular routine and spent about two hours praying and listening to the Lord.  I have been neglecting these extended times away lately. Not sure why-probably busyness and lack of planning.  I would encourage each of you to set aside a couple of hours every month or so to pray and listen. I am always blessed by these relationship building times with God.  All you need is a quiet place, time set aside, Bible, and notebook.  It will be worth it!

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is of Samuel learning to hear God.  You can read the story in 1 Samuel 3:1-10.  God was speaking to Samuel, but he was mistaking the voice for someone else.  Finally, Eli advised him to go back to bed & say, "Speak, for your servant is listening." God then spoke and directed Samuel's future. Many years ago, I began a "discipline" for lack of a better word that looks much like this story.  I realize that God's Word guides, feeds, & strengthens me (from Hide N Seek lesson last night). So, what better way to start the day than to allow God's Word to shape my day.  Sometimes this includes reading Scripture, but other times it involves listening. Now, I cannot say that God has spoken audibly to me.  However, God has often influenced and shaped personal, family, & ministry decisions by clear impressions He puts on my heart.  So, how does this work?  I will spend some time in prayer & reading th...

Have you been leading family worship or having a spiritual conversation with your child and wonder if they are hearing anything you say?  Do you feel like they are present in the room, but far, far away in their thoughts?  Have you wanted to quit passing on faith in the home because you are sure your kids are not listening? I have a story to tell you.  In Hide N Seek, our mid week program for 4 year olds through 4th grade, we have devotions to complete each week.  They are family driven so the whole family gathers together to read Scripture, pray, and sing.  This past week, the activity was to review the year.  We have been learning more about the ACTS acrostic (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).  The kids were to try and remember the five activities we did to help us better understand adoration.  When I originally wrote the devotions, I expected kids to get a few and then look up the rest for review.  However, I praised Go...