In Tampa w/ Chris, Cher & Norma. Norma leads our LG ministry. Nelson Searcy is teaching along with Bob Franquis. Lots of really good information. If you aren’t in a group yet, plan to sign up in Jan 2009. I LOVE my group. Bill Segall is doing a great job. Last week was his first time leading. FYI - You can do things you aren’t yet aware of. Trust God and step to the plate. Let’s LOVE GOD, CONNECT WITH EACH OTHER, AND SERVE THE WORLD!

Sorry so late.  Here it is …

• Great day to be a partner at www.discoverlifechurch.tv
• We have some amazingly, gifted encouragers here.
• Chris preached today and did really well.
• I love church attendance in the fall;)
• We grew over the summer by about 15-20.  We’ve grown by another 50 since the beginning of October.  I am so thankful.  I want to ride this wave of morale as long as possible.
• What does God have for us in 2009?  I’m asking Him now.
• My theme for next year’s preaching calendar is, “INCREASE OUR FAITH!”  I’ll be sharing more about that before the end of the year.
• Next week, we’re altering the flow of our worship experience.  I love to keep people guessing.  My 87 year old grandfather (who is a retired minister) has mentioned to me numerous times that successful pastors know how to pull a rabbit out of a hat every 2-3 months.  I wonder if that isn’t more like 2-3 weeks in today’s language.
• New Lead Usher - Darlene - We love you.  Thanks for being available and willing.
• Break-out worship in the first worship experience.  Wow!  What a moment of worship.
• I love seeing our folks hang out before and during the worship experiences.  Real relationships are being forged in our Life Groups.
• We have a lot of hurting people in our church.  Please pray for one another.  I’m praying for you.  Don’t fight alone.  Isolation will not change your situation.
• Lots of guests again.  1st, 2nd and 3rd timers.  Woohoo!
• Invite your friends, family and coworkers.  They need to experience what God has for them.  We’ll direct them toward Jesus if you’ll get them in our worship experiences:)
• My youth pastors as a teenager were with us today.  Tim and Ginger Taylor are some of the greatest people you’ll ever meet.  Thanks for hanging out with us.
• Jason’s Deli for supper.  Hallelujah!

Here we go …

• I love the animations and pictures of our new ministry campus.  Showing them today really encouraged me that we are headed toward our new ministry campus.
• The children did a great job with their ‘Shoopy’ dance thing or whatever.  They could get up and do jumping jacks for all I care.  If their doing it in a church worship experience, we ought to get loud and rowdy.  I’m so proud of them.
• Silas cried to go home with a friend today after our worship experience.  Its so hard to let him simply grow up.  I like him still needing me.
• I’ve drank about 60 oz. of water today and I’ve got a ways to go yet.  I sweat a little more than usual this morning.  Was it hot for anyone else there this morning?
• Great crowd again.  Let’s aim for 500 souls in attendance.  Lots of new faces.  We love you all and look forward to getting to know each one of you better.
• My friend, Warren Miller was there today.  He and his wife are a class act.
• I also saw Mark Wadsworth - Thanks for hanging out.  Randy, where were you bro?  I know you guys are waiting on the Tug-O-War rematch - Ha!
• I’m going to run on the beach in a few minutes.
• I meet with my staff in the morning and I can’t wait to encourage them.  They are all doing awesome jobs.  I appreciate them so very much.
• I have to begin working more systematically this week.  I’m looking for to systematizing more of what we do here at www.discoverlifechurch.tv.
• I have a really full week this week.  I’m really glad I took some time away last week.
• My blood pressure has been somewhat elevated the last week.  However, today after the worship experiences, it was back down - Yea God!  You guys pray for me.
• I’m going to lose another 20 pounds and then focus on muscle gain after that.
• I’m also limiting myself to red meat only once a week and lean red meat at that - I really like Buffalo.
• I’ve decided to drink more water as well.
• The worship team blessed me today.
• We prayed and God has answered.  I think there are like 5 guitarists in our church now, 3 of whom still want to plug in.  Andre also told me he drums.  I look forward to seeing these guys plug in.  John Menton has been a true blessing and breath of fresh air in our Worship Arts Ministry.
• John Noon is leading our parade team.  We’re in two Christmas parades this year, the Melbourne Light Parade and another one in Palm Bay.  This has to be one of my favorite times of the year.  I’m a Christmas fanatic.  I’d love it to snow here in FL just once … actually, only once would be nice.  I still love 70° on Christmas day.
• Did you guys know wordpress recognizes Microsoft’s symbol codes?  Too cool.  The degree sign is achieved by holding alt and pressing 0176.  Ahhh, let me guess … You don’t really care.
• Lots of 2nd time guests today.  Gotta love that.  Dive in and make some noise.
• My brother just put up a new website for the church he pastors.  I love it.  Check it out here.
• I’m sure I’m forgetting something, but the light is waning and I wont lose the last 10 lbs. sitting in front of my computer.

See you this week in Life Groups.

I must say I’ve enjoyed a few days away.  I’m ready to get back in and do some damage.  I took off to Orlando for 3 days w/Cher and Silas.  I love to get away and RELAX, although I’m not sure how much I relaxed.  We stayed pretty busy.  I got to eat at a really good pizza place called Giordanos.  This pizza was unreal.  If you haven’t tried it lately, you need to TAKE SOME TIME OFF. 

The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it.  Just do it.  You need it and it will more than likely never be convenient.  I love this quote … “How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then to rest afterward.”  When you rest, make sure and rest as hard as you work and play.  Some people may not like your decision to rest and relax.  Don’t worry about them.  They probably wont be around long enough to fill your ears with too many complaints.

Awesome prayer meeting tonight.  I arrived around 7 p.m. and was totally blessed to hear the prayers of the saints.  Tonight after the prayer time, I sat with Sean Solomon and reflected on the goodness of God.  He is a good brother, and very sensitive to the flow of the Holy Spirit.  I really appreciate that about him.  If you’re not praying regularly folks, you’re missing out on so much.  God wants to speak to your heart and hear from you each day!  Don’t leave your house … NOT EVER … until you’ve read your Bible and prayed.  Your days will never be the same when you do this.  Love you guys.  Good night!

Are you an authentic leader?  Are you trustworthy and genuine?  Do you have a true sense of God’s work in your life that produces spirit-empowered authority and influence?  Check out these definitions …

Authenticity - the quality or condition of being authentic, trustworthy, or genuine.

Merriam-Webster says authentic means authoritative (having authority)

I’d like to start this conversation on authenticity with communication.  Are you an authentic communicator.  Do you tell people what you think and feel or what you think they want you to think and feel.  Regarding my communication on Sundays, I feel more authentic than ever before.  FYI - I don’t care who you are, what size church you pastor, or how many people there are on your team, we’ve all struggled at one time or another with our individual ’style’ or ‘flavor’ of communicating.  Sometimes we’ve felt good about where we were.  Other times, we’ve just had to move through the growth process of becoming who God created us to be.  I can now say I feel comfortable in my own skin … to the degree that I’m free to truly express God’s work in my life and www.discoverlifechurch.tv to others in a way that represents my true perceptions, frustrations, and aspirations for the local church.  You don’t arrive here overnight.  Everyday that we learn more about ourselves and specifically, God’s work in us, we push forward into new realms of authenticity.  For a moment, reflect on your individual communication context(s).  Are you real at home?  Work?  Recreation?  Are you trustworthy?  Are you genuine?  Are you the type person that speaks from your heart or are you speaking from a place of manipulated agitation?  You’ll never be happy until you learn to truthfully (authentically) share from your heart your thoughts and convictions regardless of the fallout.

Remember, authentic is defined by the word authoritative.  The more authentic you are, the more authority people will recognize in you regarding your respective ministry context.  Don’t forget that being authentic doesn’t mean being perfect.  One of the best characteristics of an authentic leader is their ability to admit they are occasionally uncertain and confused about a strategy or next step.

What do you think makes an authentic communicator?

Super tired right now …

• High impact worship experiences - Thank you God.
• Super cool - 84 people attended our pre-service team prayer at 8:40 a.m.  Wow!
• Second worship experience seemed a little more lively.  We’ll fix that next week.  I’m thinking about a couple of giveaways to kick things off.  People generally get excited about free stuff.
• I loved the first song.  The guitar rocked.  Bass was also solid today.
• Vocals are always great.  Ya’ll got some lungs!!
• Ephesians 3 is going to be fun next Sunday.
• I’m headed to Tom Fike’s house for a party.  They are great hosts and always make everyone feel at home.  I hope to get in a little xbox 360
• Next week, we’re removing the pipe and draping to allow people to sit in the upper 30 seats.  Today, we were at 52% in the first worship experience and 70% in the second worship experience.
• Attendance was strong again and all I can say is … Keep inviting your friends and family.  We’ll start a third service as soon as we need to!
• There are a lot of new people at our church.  My mother said that she didn’t know all the greeters today when she arrived - How cool is that?
• We’ve had a lot of our regulars out for two weeks.  I look forward to seeing them next week.
• 1 hour, 18 minutes - First Worship Experience
• 1 hour, 22 minutes - Second Worship Experience
• We’ve never been this strategic.  Its so awesome to see God’s hand at work.  A lot of people talk about being spontaneous.  Unfortunately, I think they may mean … last minute.  GOD HELP US TO BE PURPOSEFUL AND STRATEGIC regarding our mission.
• A guy I went to High School with (Tim) took his children to a movie today.  He popped in on our second worship experience when he heard we were worshipping there at the movie theatre.  That makes three weeks in a row that we’ve had guests who initially came to see a movie but hung out with us first - I love that.
• I’m so glad my son told me he doesn’t want to see High School Musical.  My wife loves musicals.  I don’t dig them at all.  On our weekly date night, I went with Cher to see a chick-flick about 4 months ago.  AHHHHHHHH!
• Don’t forget to invite your friends and family next week.  God bless you guys!

My wife is out with the ladies of www.discoverlifechurch.tv.  That means tonight is essentially Dude’s Night Out as well.  Dinner with Dad, Chris, Eric, Silas and the Babies (PC and Brit have another one on the way) was awesome.  Nothing like toppin the night off with a little game action at Adretti Thrill Park.

I had planned to take Silas to Orlando Speedworldtonight, but that got rained out.  Oh well.  What are your plans for the weekend?  There is a big jazz festival at Wickham Park tomorrow.  Rock The Silence is also planning a big outreach tomorrow.  I hope to get there.  They always do things so excellent.

What is PCG?  It stands for Pastoral Covenant Group.  This is a group of pastors I meet with monthly as well as once a year for a 3 day retreat.  Today we met and discussed our plans for 2009.  I gleaned alot from these guys.  They are all really smart dudes and I appreciate their wisdom, insights and encouragement.  Here’s something that God spoke to me this evening that really fired me up …

If its on God’s agenda, its in God’s budget.  We can’t ever let lack of finances or anything else for that matter keep us from serving him and pursuing the seemingly impossible.  Let me ask you a question or two …

Do the factors that hinder you disagree with what scripture says about you?  Have you been duped into thinking that the impossible is in fact impossible?

Think … Think carefully.  What task is God asking you to do that your circumstances have convinced you is impossible to accomplish?

First of all, let me say, I’ve got mad respect for ANY pastor who preaches more than two services each Sunday.  Here we go …

• Before the first service began, I felt a little uneasy.  I asked Chris about how things were going and he said they were just fine.  I didn’t think another thing about it, it must have just been me.
• The services were only 10 or 12 people apart in terms of attendance.  This totally threw me.  I pegged the first worship experience as being much smaller.
• The last two quarters have blown me away in terms of church growth.  New folks are coming in and getting involved each week.
• Our Ethnic Day Picnic was well attended today.  Thank you to everyone who came out.  Volleyball was a blast.
• I don’t think I’m going to be able to participate as heavily as I might would have expected in the music on Sundays now that we have two worship experiences.  This was a little tough for me, especially on the first day.  There’s so much that I simply need to be watching and analyzing.
• The interpretive dance was really cool.  I love seeing our youth get involved.  Great job, creative team!
• The worship experiences were 79 and 81 minutes.  Next week, I’ll trim back a little more in order to give everyone a little more of a breather in between services - namely the KIDMO workers.
• I thoroughly enjoyed preaching both worship experiences.  There was great energy in the room.
• I must say, Ephesians 1 was tough on me this week.  Lengthy and liturgical verses made it tough at first, but I believe God helped me to hone on the three things Paul mentions in his prayer toward the end.
• Go ahead of me this week into Ephesians 2.  You’ll be glad you did.
• So much for being an adrenaline junkie … My wife and son ditched me tonight for a relaxing evening sitting at the house.  Can someone tell me what my problem is.  Its only 8:30 p.m.  The weekend’s not over yet, let’s do something fun somebody!
• The choir did awesome.  Thanks for getting involved everyone.
• 91 volunteers were already at cinemaworld at 8:30 a.m. this morning - Drama team, Aux ministries, KIDMO, band and worship team, etc.  Our first worship experience wasn’t to begin until 9:00 a.m.  This # (91) is over 4 times the number our church averaged in total attendance on a Sunday 8 years ago.
• I love our team members.  I don’t what we did before we had a team like we do now.  Thank God.
• Our setup team rocks.  I love their attitudes.  No complaining at all.  These guys make ministry a pure joy.
• First worship experience - 60% capacity in main auditorium.  Second worship experience - 58% capacity in main auditorium.
• Guys, God is up to something big.  Come back next week and bring someone with you.  Lets LOVE GOD, CONNECT WITH EACH OTHER, AND SERVE THE WORLD.

I had an Adm. Team meeting tonight and got a lot accomplished.  We have a great team.  I just thought you guys would want to know that God is doing great things in our leadership team.  Unity is sooooooo good!

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is, For brethren to dwell together in unity!  2 It is like the precious oil upon the head, Running down on the beard, The beard of Aaron, Running down on the edge of his garments.  3 It is like the dew of Hermon, Descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing— Life forevermore.

This guy rocks.  As I understand it, this guy founded a group named Racer X, but later was a part of Mr. Big - To Be With You - circa 1992.

It is a statistical fact that only ten percent of Christians have the “spiritual gift” of evangelism. It is also a fact that only five percent ever lead someone to Christ. This means that only 5 out of 100, or 1 in 20, will lead someone to Christ, and that only half of those who are “gifted” to, actually will!  But it is every Christian’s job to lead people to Christ, and part of that responsibility lies in inviting people to Church. Why should you invite people to church? There are at least five reasons:

1. They will hear the gospel at church; some may even get saved at church
2. They will connect with Christians at church
3. Felt and real needs may be met at church
4. Your church will grow by you inviting others
5. People are more likely to come to church when invited by an individual

Here is the bottom line.  If we don’t ask, a person’s chances of attending the local church are quite slim.  I’ve heard that 70% of church growth happens because of word of mouth.  Guys, we’ve got a savior to share.  If you’ve been blessed by God’s presence in your life, get out in your community and share Jesus with others.  Do this on your job, on your street, in your apartment complex … wherever.  God’s voice to the unchurched is expressed through your life and testimony.  Who are you inviting this Sunday?

FYI - I already have about 7-10 people 70% confirmed.  You can do this!!!

This is reprinted with permission.  For more information, click here.

Here you are …

• I’m here at the office with Brannon and Braxton.  They’re waiting on their Dad who is in our D201 class.  These guys work every Sunday with their dad, Dr. Benny Shaw on the Hospitality team as ushers.
• Today went pretty smooth for the most part, although I was locked out of my office this morning
• John Menton is doing an awesome job on guitars … Way to go, bro!
• I loved how Cher used multiple scriptures as she led worship.
• Chris had a really good thought today - 10 Ways To Share Your Faith Without Getting Pummelled - Loved It.
• Condensing our worship experiences has proven more difficult than we’d like to believe.  Next week, its 75 minutes … period!
• The sermon … well, all I can say is that it was probably two, maybe three squeezed into one.  This wont work when we’re running two worship experiences.  While I feel like I went too long, I also feel as if the information needed to be addressed.  How can I be FILLED with the Spirit?
• Strong crowd again today, however we were missing a few of our key leaders, some of whom were sick.
• We need a large banner on display on Fridays and Saturdays - maybe in the mall parking lot on the side of our 30′ trailer!  The wrap itself is an attention getter.
• I’m loving the arcade at the front of Cinemaworld.  My favorite game is, The Fast and The Furious.  Silas had to play before we left today.
• Last night, I played The Fast and The Furious - Tokyo Drift at Andretti with Silas.  I like this one the most so far because it has a sweet new mustang and the most amazing muscle car of the century, the Chevy Camaro.  Whether or not I ever own a real one, I can at least say I’ve driven it - or something like that.
• Things seemed together all the way around today.  Children’s ministry continues to excel.  Keep praying.  God is doing amazing things.  I can’t wait to see what happens next Sunday.

Special thanks to Chris Elrod for this post.  I read it earlier this year and it really challenged me.  Where does the Bible declare that a church can’t grow over summer.  I hate it when we fall for these stupid lies the enemy tells us.  Too often, I’ve had the wrong attitude about the possibility of negative things in my life and ministry.  Thinking thoughts like, “what will be, will be” or “this is just the way things are supposed to happen” is the dumb kind of logic that holds us back.

I listened to the sentiment of what Chris had to say and thank God for that.  OUR HIGHEST AVERAGE THIS YEAR WAS OVER THE 3RD QUARTER.  Are you ready for this?  July, August and September mark the greatest attendance for www.discoverlifechurch.tvin 2008.  The beauty of this challenge - It turned out to be a transitional moment into a wave of growth in this fourth quarter of the year.  Pretty sick!  Over the last 5 weeks, we’ve averaged 15 higher than our total average for the 3rd quarter.  We’re headed to two services on Oct. 19 and I’m praying for God’s blessing on our every effort.  Here’s a thought … Respectfully challenge conventional wisdom and always leave room for God to do whatever He wants in your life.  Stop whining and complaining and simply MAN UP!  You’ll probably end up surprised.

Life seems to push us toward the status quo.  Too often we are made to drift instead of choosing our own course.  Here are a few thoughts I have at the end of a long Monday about pastoring people and leading in general …

1. You had better know how to guard your time and agenda.

Often, I encounter people who wish to alter my day and priorities.  They rarely say, “Hey dude, now that I’m here, I want you to change your agenda to fit mine.  My stuff is more important than yours so get in line with where I’m going.”  While they wont say this specifically with their lips, they DO say it with their actions and implied expectations.  Throughout every day of your life and career, you MUST protect what you’ve established as your list of priorities.  Sometimes, things may need to change, but that is sometimes and not most of the time.  Guard your time and your agenda like a mother bear over her bear cub.  The most difficult part of this struggle is that often the people who subvert your priorities are actually good people with good ideas.  Good people will most often realize you have a plan and must stick to it.  Anyone who can’t respect your priorities is an enemy to your success.

2. Create a plan and stick to it.

Always write out your plan the night before.  I keep my to-do and to-don’t list by my bed at night.  Often, I’ll remember something a few minutes after I’ve laid down.  I also have my phone there on the charger and I can quickly leave a voice message for the following day if necessary.  Recognize that all day, there are going to opportunities to alter your direction.  Why did you go to the trouble of creating a plan you didn’t have full respect for?  Hopefully, you prayerfully created your plan for the day.  If so, trust that God has given you the appropriate assignments and go with what you’ve got.  Changes may occur, but make sure they help to keep you on track for the week and month goals you recognize.

3. Know when to say no and learn to say it without flinching!!!

Lots of people will come to you with good ideas.  Remember that good is the enemy of great.  Their good ideas wont necessarily get you to a place of greatness.  When someone asks you to participate in something that sounds good, ask yourself if this will push you toward accomplishing your all-important goals.  Will this good idea work to build success in your life or merely sidetrack you from all that you hold dear.  If you’re not used to saying no, then you’ll have to get used to it.  It does get easier as you do it more often.  Be careful not to say no simply because you can.  Remember, the goal in mind is not laziness or rudeness.  The goal is to take charge and stay on top of the things that matter to you.

That’s all for now.  These three ideas all revolve around one thing … taking charge of your days on the earth.  I’m feeling a little militaristic this afternoon.  Its been a long day and I wish I could have done more.  What ideas do you have for taking charge?

Here’s a reminder from this weekend …

1. Pray at least 100 minutes between now and Oct. 19.

If 250 participate, this means we will pray 25,000 minutes, or 416.5 hours together for a great victory.  100 minutes in prayer over 14 days is about 7 minutes and 8 seconds each day.  Tack this prayer time at the conclusion of your regular prayers each morning or evening.  Let’s believe God for souls Oct. 19!!!

2. Invite as many people as possible!

I know some people are more gifted at this than others.  However, the fact that evangelism comes more naturally to others doesn’t exempt you from trying!  I’ll be writing more about this.  In the meantime, don’t ever forget - ALL THE ANGELS IN HEAVEN REJOICE OVER ONE LOST SINNER RETURNING TO GOD!  Make every attempt to impact someone’s life for eternity on Oct. 19.  I know you can.

Here we go … 

• First of all, I’ve never been this excited about where www.discoverlifechurch.tv is headed.  God is doing BIG things for us.
• We just finished a baptism, one of my favorite things to do.  I was overwhelmed with God’s mercy watching Chris baptize some new converts.  I sensed the gravity and super-significance of what we do here at www.discoverlifechurch.tv for the Kingdom of God, all over again.  It was as if this was the first time we’d ever baptized anyone.  Praise God.
• Check out the pictures of the baptism today.  I got to talk with Jeff about wearing pink shirts.  WHOA!  Brother, you are secure man.
• Today was John Menton’s first day playing guitar in our worship band.  He rocks.  Period.  Thanks John!
• I’m thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to preach this series, Leaving Mediocrity, whether or not anybody’s enjoying hearing it.
• Wow, could it be that we’re over 300 for good?  I love it when a low day has a 3 on the front.  Thank You God!
• Bob, if you’re reading, know that you totally bless me, Bro.  You and Eric Mckinnion seem so attentive and dialed in when I’m speaking.  God’s word (not necessarily my preaching) is amazing and I see that you get it!
• Our connection card team is working in the central office outside my door.  Pastor Chris - 92%, Pastor Ken - 91%.  What gives?
• I’m listening to a group named, PFR.  Check out The Bookhouse Recordings.  Joel Hanson has an amazing vocal gift - totally different, beautiful texture.  These guys seemed to go against the grain of mainstream pop Christian radio.  I love it!  No yaba-daba-dujah here - If you don’t get that, forget I wrote it.
• We have the most generous people in the world.  You guys have almost $1,000 to three very needy people this morning.  I love you for being so obedient.  Thank you.
• The worship was awesome this morning.  I wholly sensed the power and presence of God in our midst.
• Lots of people continue to sign up for Life Groups.  Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part this semester.  Our next sign-up month is not until 2009.
• I’m going to see Fire Proof tonight with my wife under the direction of a great friend of mine.
• I met a 1st time guest this morning who was 30 minutes early.  That was really cool.  Nice to meet you, Andrea and Jerod.
• Lastly, we were at 83% capacity today, and our kid’s ministry is rockin and rollin.  Great job, Carrie.

There’s no way this is everything, but I’ve got a meeting in a minute or two.  Peace!

We were at 84% capacity again today.  I didn’t have that info earlier for Sunday Unravelled and simply wanted to share that.  Two services in 3 weeks.  Our big day is October 19, 2008.  Bring your friends and family!!

Here are my thoughts regarding today …

• Set-up is happening faster and faster each week.
• No tech issues today.  I think we’ve got things down.
• Cher is holding a Worship Arts orientation today.  We’re bringing in a lot of new folks to our Worship Arts ministry.
• The parking lot was surprisingly dirty this morning.  We were able to clean up, but we’ll need to get that first thing next Sunday.
• Two services begin 3 weeks from today.  We’re going to have to streamline everything to accommodate the new schedule.
• I loved the 2nd worship chorus, but I missed the bass guitar solo in the beginning.  The team did amazing as usual.  We have 3 separate worship teams now.  We still need musicians so if you know any, send them this way!!!
• This was our 2nd week with ample children’s ministry staff.  What a great feeling.  I think things may actually get easier for us regarding volunteers when we go to two worship experiences.  We’re asking people to work one and attend one.
• The choir sounds cool for Oct. 19, 2008.  I can’t wait.
• Chris did terrific this morning.  He said a lot of good things.  Tough, but necessary.  I’m so glad my associate pastor isn’t a pansy.  Say it, bro!!
• Not sure about guests per 100, but it looked pretty full.  I’m just glad to be over 300 again.  It looks like we may be out of the 200’s for good.  Keep bringing your friends and family.
• I loved praying with everyone this morning.  The corporate prayer was encouraging to me, if no one else.  There are a lot of hurting people and that time was so important.
• I heard today that Amy Pace recieved a positive report.  She is cancer-free.  Praise God!
• I’m unsure what to do this afternoon.  Usually, something is planned but not today.  Maybe a nap???  I doubt it, but a bike ride sounds awesome.
• Our staff retreat was awesome this past week.  It felt great to simply relax, although I did miss reading blogs each night.
• I just finished II Samuel and will begin I Kings tonight.  I’m looking forward to that.
• I think we’ll end up at dinner this evening and then hit the bed early.

This week, I asked this question and received some really cool feedback.  Which comes first, FEAR or DOUBT?  Do you fear because of your doubts, or do you doubt because of your fears?

For what its worth, here’s what I think …

When I began pondering this, I looked for the earliest possible circumstance of doubt and/or fear.  I went to the book of beginnings, the first book of the Bible, Genesis.  Check out Genesis 2 - 15 The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it. 16 But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—17 except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.”  Then this in verse 25 - Now the man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame.

Now take a brief look at Genesis 3 -  1 The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”  2 “Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. 3 “It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”  4 “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. 5 “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.”  Pay close attention to this.  Here is where she doubts. - 6 The woman was convinced.  She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it.  Here is where they sin. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. 7 At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness (Here is shame). So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.  8 When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man^[a] and his wife heard the Lord God walking about in the garden. So they hid (Here is where they fear) from the Lord God among the trees.

At the risk of oversimplification, I see this cycle …

When we are tempted, WE DOUBT GOD.  Then, when we feel shame, WE FEAR THE CONSEQUENCES.

Notice, they didn’t FEAR anything when they were talking to the devil himself.  Of all the persons to fear, I would think the devil would be the guy to fear, right?  Sadly, their DOUBT opened the door to sin, which then opened the door to FEAR - The Bible says they hid themselves.  Interestingly, they didn’t hide themselves from the devil, they simply attempted to cover their shame.  Fear was yet to come.  They didn’t hide themselves until God showed up.  Satan not only got them to doubt God, but to be afraid of Him as well.  I’m not talking about reverent fear either.  They were literally frightened of God.  How sad when we know that God has not given us a spirit of fear.  He wants us to live and dwell in His mercy and love.  That’s all for now … DOUBT and then FEAR.  At least that’s how I see it.

Is anybody else curious why the devil was there in the first place?  That will have to be for another time.

I rode for about an hour today.  I’ve noticed that I feel a gazillion times better when I’m riding regularly.  I still can’t quite get the workout I get when running, but my legs don’t hurt near as bad either.  What do you do to relieve your stress?  Do you do anything?  If not, you should really ask yourself, how are you releasing the stresses of this life?  Teenagers?  Economy?  God has made us in a way that we are able to work hard and sweat regularly.  FYI - God didn’t institute the 5-day, 40-hour work week either.  Nope, try six days on, and one day off.  Seriously, how often can you sweat sitting behind a wood desk in a cubicle with a donut in your hand?  How often can you sweat driving in your air-conditioned car?  Get out and do something that gets your pulse up.  If you do it for 3 or 4 days, I guarantee a change in the way you feel.  What is your favorite stress relief?  Please don’t say eating either!

I have an idea I’d like to explore …

Which comes first, FEAR or DOUBT?  Do you fear because of your doubts, or do you doubt because of your fears?  There’s only one stipulation to giving your thought.  You have to use scripture as an example.  I’m using an Old Testament example when I say more about this before next Saturday.  I look forward to hearing what you think …

2nd day at Cinemaworld …

• The worship experience was a little shorter this week, but not short enough for when we are at two services beginning October 19, 2008.
• Things went a lot smoother this week, although Pastor Chris being out of town did have an effect.  That guy works hard each week.
• Lots of new people again.  Thanks to everyone who continues to bring guests.
• I love preaching the series we are in, Leaving Mediocrity.
• Lots of our people were out today as compared with last week.  We were still at our average for the year though.
• D101 class had a strong attendance.  WE BROUGHT IN ABOUT 12 NEW PARTNERS!  I wish somebody would get loud with me.
• I think I’d like to preach a series next year entitled, “Make Heaven Shout.”  I mentioned this during a message last week and forgot to mention it.
• I didn’t get to exercise today, but I was pretty tired anyhow.
• Dinner at Dustin’s with the family was cool, although we really missed the twins as well as Chris and Brit.
• I’m asking everyone to consider attending one worship experience and serving in one worship experience beginning Oct. 19.
• Travis Johnson is doing awesome things in Miami.  They just went to three services every Sunday - Wow!
• Double services are helping to create a lot of momentum for us moving into 2009.  This momentum thing is an amazing shot in the arm and so hard to regain when lost.  Let’s ride this wave into God’s next big move for us.
• People genuinely worshipped today and that makes me a happy pastor.  I love seeing men with their hands raised to God in praise and their hearts surrendered to Him.
• In the future, I think we’ve got a super cool idea for a third service … we’ll see ???
• Super important - I don’t ever want to lose the flow of God’s Spirit in our worship experiences.  I’m totally willing to throw our plan and agenda out the door when God wants to change something!  I’d love to see some people healed over the next couple of weeks.  There are a lot of hurting people in our church who need miracles.  Will you trust God for that with me?

Here you have it, my highlights from our first day at Cinemaworld …

• Set-up began on time.  I pulled up with the van and trailer around 7:30 a.m.  I don’t normally drive the van with the trailer.  I never realized the way the trailer pulls on the van.  I couldn’t take it over 50 mph.  There’s a picture of the van and trailer on the right.
• Our team was there on time, as usual.  These guys are amazing.  I really appreciate the way the media team handled the issues this morning.  What makes a computer mouse not work anyway?  Two computer mouses at that?
• We never got the video camera working, but we’ll have that up next week.
• The graphic looks amazing on the wide-screen.
• The vocals and band were on target.  The new venue didn’t seem to bother anyone.
• We will need more volunteers in the KIDMO and Lil’ K areas next week.  My wife stepped in today taking her out of the worship experience after worship.  She didn’t mind, but I need her with me.
• Tons of kids the last two weeks.  Parents with families have been rolling in regularly - Praise God!
• Seven years ago, the church we replanted had 15-20 senior adult attendees but NO CHILDREN!  We’ve come a long way.  Thank You God.
• We pushed well over 300 for the last two weeks.  That makes me a happy pastor.  This 300 barrier thing has been a pain in my side for the last year and a half.  I hope we never hit below 300 again.  You guys pray and keep inviting people each Sunday.  You’re doing a great job.
• My neighbor was back for the 4th time today.  He prayed to accept Christ on a Saturday about a week ago.  We were in my car talking and when I asked him, he said he’d like to give his life to Christ.  Today, he told me he prays that prayer every night before going to bed … God is so good!
• Joe V. closed us out this morning and did a great job.  Thanks man.
• There are a lot of new faces each week.  Things are at a really exciting stage now.  There’s an energy I can’t quite describe.  I can only say I like it a lot!
• I love the stairwell and elevator access for our young children and nursery.  Super nice!
• In the excitement today, I forgot popcorn.  I’ll have to get on that next Sunday - Woo hoo!
• Special thanks once again to Jim Deal of Cinemaworld.  Dave was super accommodating this morning.  This guys are awesome.
• We were out around 12:20 p.m.  I expect that to be closer to noon next Sunday, maybe earlier.
• Cher is auditioning vocals and instruments today for Worship Arts.  The Worship Arts team has grown by about 75 people over the last 6 months.  Way to go, Cher.
• One last thing … Walking into the office this afternoon around 2:30 p.m., my wife looked at me with this crazy look - like we’d missed the rapture or something.  To my dismay, there was a HUGE, SCARY, HAIRY, UGLY, CREEPY, CRAWLY, GARGANTUAN, HORRIFIC, HORN-FACED, GOLIATH OF AN INSECT making its way up the back of my shirt onto my neck.  This wont sound very manly, but I absolutely hate bugs, frogs, lizards - anything that crawls or is slimy.  About 10 people in the office freaked out, and then I FREAKED OUT.  Not sure why you need to know that.

That’s all for now.  Let’s pack the place out next week.  Remember … Memorize, Personalize, Analyze and Visualize.  God’s Word will come to pass.

Tonight after dinner with the family, Chrisand I gave his twin boys Poprocks for the first time.  I’m not sure what they were thinking, but they did keep eating them.  Actually, they still eat anything you hand to them.  They preferred the bubble tape - I think I do too for that matter.  Someone said that if you mix Poprocks with soda, it can hurt you really bad.  Any truth to this?

Here are my highlights …

• Today was Kid’s day and they amazed us all.
• The three children that led our worship were all under 9 years old.  Their names are … Maria Cintron, Abigail Cowart and Sal Alemany.
• I loved the black light stuff - Very creative - Carrie and Cher did a terrific job.
• The confetti added a super cool effect although clean up sucked eggs - Anything for the kids though.
• The blessing of the students was Terri Erickson’s idea from last year.  He reminded me this year.  He is such an encourager.  If you’re reading this blog and you don’t know him, you should come visit us just to meet this awesome brother.
• We’re consistently bringing new guests each week.  Thanks to everyone who works diligently to tell the lost about what God will do in their lives.  If you’ll get them here, we’ll do our dead-level best to reach them with the gospel message.  Remember to INVEST AND INVITE.
• We only did two adult worship songs today, but the band and vocalist were strong as usual.
• Four or five people have approached Cher about auditioning for the band - Super cool.  Cher’s cousin, Jamie recently started attending www.discoverlifechurch.tv.  She is the band and chorus teacher for a local junior high school. She’s super gifted and we’re excited about her participation.  She sings, teaches and plays every instrument in our band.
• Lots of people out today and we still soared past 300 - Go team!!
• We had a class today on Spiritual Gifts - What a blast!  About 10 people attended and we had a great time.  Great job Pastor Chris!
• The carnival for the kids went well.
• People love giveaways.  There were a lot of giveaways today.
• It was a little weird taking down all the setup and equipment today - Our last day at EGHS.  When you’ve put in 1 year and 8 months, its a little odd moving to another location.  However, I know that God is leading us to Cinemaworld.  You all are going to love it there.  Bring a friend with you next week.
• Our media team has us set up for wide screen next week on the DLP.  Josh Conti, David Daniel, Jeff Bechta, Bob O., and Anil Jodhan got all the tech stuff figured out today.  Thanks guys for all that you do to push forward the mission - LOVE  CONNECT  SERVE!
• Once again, bring someone with you next week.  We start our new series, Leaving Mediocrity.  I’m really excited about it.
• Last week, an infant named Bella (recently dedicated at www.discoverlifechurch.tv) was rushed by helicopter to Arnold Palmer Hospital in Orlando, FL for emergency surgery.  We all began to pray, God moved and no surgery was necessary - Yea God!  We praise God for His hand of mercy and healing.  Little Bella was with us today in our worship experience.  She is a beautiful little blessing and we thank God for moving in her precious life.  Keep praying guys.  God is listening!
• Please pray for Norma Montenez, our Life Group director and her whole family.

That’s it for now.  Are you praying for our church body?  God is doing great things.  Let’s pray for His continual blessing on us.  Don’t forget to bring someone with you next week, our first week at Cinemaworld!

Guys, Cinemaworld is going to be awesome.  We did our pre-setup this week.  God has some great things in store for us.  Special thanks to the great folks over at Cinemaworld.  These guys are stand-up.  When you go see movies, GO HERE!!!  The staff is the best anywhere and the management are creative and forward thinking.  I have heard some of their ideas and I’m telling you they are super innovative.  I’ve put a couple more pics here on either side.  For a map, go here.  See you in the morning for our last day at EGHS.  Special thanks to Tom Armstrong for his help over the last year and 8 months.  He has been a friend and major blessing to www.discoverlifechurch.tv.  Thanks again, Mr. Armstrong.

Its so important to be alert to the moments when God speaks to us. They happen a lot more than we might recognize. Often, we encounter circumstances that hinder our attentiveness to God’s voice in our lives. I’ve listed a few below.

Often, we don’t listen (or we don’t listen as closely) when;
- things seem to be going well. We fail to remember that if history shows us anything, it shows us that things will not always go well. You dont want to have to re-acquaint yourself with God simply when you need something.
- we are preoccupied with life stuff. Don’t get too busy to hear from God.
- we have recently fallen or struggled in some area in our life. It may feel like, ‘Hey, I’ve messed up so bad already, God can’t possibly have anything to say to me. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

Any other thoughts? Let me know what you think.

One of the most exciting things I’ve had the opportunity to witness in ministry from Nelson Searcy is the biblical concept of extravagant giving.  God’s view of giving reaches much further than merely into your wallet!  Something Nelson says over and over is ‘LEARN AND RETURN.’  I have observed giving to be at the core of his vision and values.  In ministry, in life, on the job, with family, friends, coworkers, proteges, or whoever, we need to ‘learn and return.’  Assuming that you are a person committed to personal growth (or spiritual growth), when was the last time that you shared something new you had learned with another Christian?  How often do you pour yourself into the lives of others encouraging them in their respective growth journeys?  Who in life looks to you for insight and spiritual wisdom right now?  What leaders are you working to raise in the Kingdom of God right now?  I’ve heard so many people complain about not having amazing and renowned mentors.  I ask another question … Are you returning God’s investment in you to others who are looking to grow and be affirmed?  Often, we lack in certain areas of our lives not because God will not provide, but because we’re asking for a harvest we haven’t sown into others.  Take an inventory of your relationships today and if you are not already ‘learning and returning’, find some folks who will listen to you for 30 seconds and begin to encourage every aspiring leader you know.  Start here at www.discoverlifechurch.tv!

P.S.  To learn more about Nelson’s ideas regarding ‘Extravagant Giving’, ‘Learning and Returning’, leadership and church growth, go to www.churchleaderinsights.org!

Sunday was pretty much amazing.  Here are my highlights …

• We had our first church planter in attendance yesterday.  I love church planters.  Essentially, that’s what we did, although we call it a ‘replant.’  They were checking out some of the set-up and so forth.  Actually they are planting a Calvary Chapel in Satellite Beach just down the road over the causeway.  I’m super excited for them and look forward to seeing God move in their church.
• Dr. Jerald Smith blew me away with his message.  I love his first point - “Relationship precedes commandment!”  God established years and years of relationship with mankind before handing down the 10 commandments.  What a great way to build a lasting, significant connection with your children.
• He also said that we as parents teach our children how to relate to God and others - There are too many things to write about, just get the CD - They’re FREE every week.
• Cher and the team really blessed us, overcoming a number of technical difficulties.
• I like the worship in giving placement better this week than last.
• Pastor Chris is doing amazing on piano.
• We missed our bass guitarist yesterday.  I reluctantly stepped in.  I don’t think I’ll do that ever again for reasons that should be obvious.  I need to concentrate on the whole worship experience, not what key we’re going to in the next song
• My parents were out yesterday.  They visited my brother’s church in Clermont, FL.
• My neighbors attended again yesterday for the second time - Super cool.  Thanks for coming guys.  I look forward to seeing you again next week.
• Not sure if I mentioned this last week, but we had 26 guests.  Many of them came back this week with friends.  To my amazement, 4 of them showed up this week at our pre-worship team prayer.  This was really awesome.  Thank you, Beth, Lyn, Michelle and John.
• My brother Jason just walked up behind me and said he heard I was ‘blogular’ - What a dork!  I think I’m a dork for even mentioning it.  He’s doing a great job over in Clermont, FL.
• I’ve met so many new people who have expressed their desire to become a part of our church.  Thank God.  We anticipate being able to accomplish more and more as people dive in.  Bring it on, folks.
• One more week at EGHS.
• We are so looking forward to Cinemaworld.  That place is so nice - Clean bathrooms (without our help), short hallways, close parking, lots of foyer space, POPCORN, carpeted nursery, open kids areas, a movie theatre dedicated to KIDMO, and lots more.  Did I mention clean bathrooms and POPCORN?
• I hope you’re all inviting people to our first day in our new worship location.  I am.  Let’s pack the place out the first week.
• We continue to fall at about 80% capacity each week.
• Keep praying, keep serving and most of all, fall in love with Jesus more and more each day.

I love you all.  See you this week!