Hey Everyone...or just one,
So, I've started a new project. It is a fantasy novel that I've had in the back of mind to write for some time. I had started one previous story, only to lose interest and ultimately, nothing really got written. Now I've finished a very rough draft of my first chapter, have begun a prologue, and I'm in the middle of planning the rest of this story. I've begun to figure out where I want it to go, but nothing is set in stone yet. If you want details, you'll have to talk to me in person and I'll fill you in. If you want to help me, let me know, and I'll see if there is any way you can.
Have I flipped my lid?
Well, someone had to, it might as well be me.
Godspeed.
Flip
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Every Thought Captive
Lately, I’ve been depressed a lot. Doesn’t make much sense to me…sure there are a lot stressful things in my life, but overall things are good. But it makes me wonder why I feel so…bad.
I realized that in my own life that whenever I am in an extremely good mood or have something good happen to me, I hit a major low shortly thereafter. It usually hits me that very same night and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. So I had a really good weekend, but now I feel like I’m a mess.
There is a reality beyond our empirical senses. It consists of angels and demons and spiritual warfare. And be certain of this: it is war. There are subtle ways to wage war, however…like suggesting to your opponents that they are in some way inferior for the role they have been assigned. These thoughts must be held captive. Throw them away and be who you’re supposed to be.
Have I flipped my lid?
Well, you decide.
Godspeed.
Flip
I realized that in my own life that whenever I am in an extremely good mood or have something good happen to me, I hit a major low shortly thereafter. It usually hits me that very same night and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. So I had a really good weekend, but now I feel like I’m a mess.
There is a reality beyond our empirical senses. It consists of angels and demons and spiritual warfare. And be certain of this: it is war. There are subtle ways to wage war, however…like suggesting to your opponents that they are in some way inferior for the role they have been assigned. These thoughts must be held captive. Throw them away and be who you’re supposed to be.
Have I flipped my lid?
Well, you decide.
Godspeed.
Flip
Monday, January 26, 2009
Enigma
Energizing the mere thought,
Now I find I must strive,
Into the unknown, headlong I dive,
Going to find what is sought,
Mention of grace draws me to You,
And God, I praise You for making me new.
_
Now I find I must strive,
Into the unknown, headlong I dive,
Going to find what is sought,
Mention of grace draws me to You,
And God, I praise You for making me new.
_
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Ramifications
Well, here I am once again with my musings and thoughts, and today I have been thinking about eternity. Well…that’s half-true. What I am really thinking about are the eternal effects of the choices we make and the things we participate in.
Let me start off with a story. When I was younger (and still from time to time, now), I used to play videogames with intensity. I subscribed to the videogame magazines and yearned for the newest, coolest game. I often found myself staying up late into the night, eyes fixated upon the television screen. I lived for the continuation of the story-line or the next high score.
What a waste.
When did we start putting more stock into the virtual world than we did the real one? Don’t get me wrong, videogames are not inherently evil. Like I said, I still play. But I know that they are temporal and will be replaced by the newest, coolest thing this time next week. Actually this goes for all of our worldly desires. Whether they are sports, sex, videogames, or even scholarship, they will all dissolve away. While they do bring enjoyment for a time, they cannot bring everlasting joy.
That can only be found in our Lord Jesus Christ. Because once you die, you can’t bring your X-box, football stats, or even your new fob watch with you. What have you done today for God’s glory and His alone? Or…have you only done things that have made you feel better? Serving other people is good, but why are you doing it? Maybe it is because you love them. Great! But love without Christ is an incomplete love because He is love.
Look to Him and Him alone for your fulfillment. It is never too late to turn back to Him. He loves you and will take you back. He offers love and forgiveness…but most of all, He offers Himself. Spend some time today and get to know Him. You’ll be glad you did.
Have I flipped my lid?
Wait a minute, that’s why I can’t close the pickle jar!
Godspeed.
Flip
Let me start off with a story. When I was younger (and still from time to time, now), I used to play videogames with intensity. I subscribed to the videogame magazines and yearned for the newest, coolest game. I often found myself staying up late into the night, eyes fixated upon the television screen. I lived for the continuation of the story-line or the next high score.
What a waste.
When did we start putting more stock into the virtual world than we did the real one? Don’t get me wrong, videogames are not inherently evil. Like I said, I still play. But I know that they are temporal and will be replaced by the newest, coolest thing this time next week. Actually this goes for all of our worldly desires. Whether they are sports, sex, videogames, or even scholarship, they will all dissolve away. While they do bring enjoyment for a time, they cannot bring everlasting joy.
That can only be found in our Lord Jesus Christ. Because once you die, you can’t bring your X-box, football stats, or even your new fob watch with you. What have you done today for God’s glory and His alone? Or…have you only done things that have made you feel better? Serving other people is good, but why are you doing it? Maybe it is because you love them. Great! But love without Christ is an incomplete love because He is love.
Look to Him and Him alone for your fulfillment. It is never too late to turn back to Him. He loves you and will take you back. He offers love and forgiveness…but most of all, He offers Himself. Spend some time today and get to know Him. You’ll be glad you did.
Have I flipped my lid?
Wait a minute, that’s why I can’t close the pickle jar!
Godspeed.
Flip
Friday, January 9, 2009
Life & Love
My heart it seems is slow
like Molasses screaming,
at a Steady pace of flow,
But it can't stand the unceasing scheming.
Heart’s velocity to a still,
Burning for a lasting voice,
What matters? What’s needed? What Will?
All that’s left is a choice.
Happenings—prospects, not odds,
Irregular thinking for the soul,
Surrender yourself not to gods,
But to Christ who would have you whole.
_
like Molasses screaming,
at a Steady pace of flow,
But it can't stand the unceasing scheming.
Heart’s velocity to a still,
Burning for a lasting voice,
What matters? What’s needed? What Will?
All that’s left is a choice.
Happenings—prospects, not odds,
Irregular thinking for the soul,
Surrender yourself not to gods,
But to Christ who would have you whole.
_
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Anger Management
I was watching T.V. last night and the movie Anger Management with Adam Sandler came on. It's about a guy who has anger problems because he lets people walk all over him and his journey through an over-the-top anger management class.
This got me thinking about dealing with anger in constructive ways. This issue hits home because I feel like I have been dealing with a lot of anger lately. It has been difficult for me to just let things go. This has led to some relationships of mine to become strained. Now in some instances, the anger has been justified...but not all, and holding onto anger is never appropriate. So what are some ways to release this tension?
A great way I have dealt with my anger is by immersing myself into a story. It is a great way to get your mind off of a subject and onto something else so you don't end up brooding. For me, many times, this will take the form of videogame playing or reading a good book.
I will warn, however, that this can become dangerous. Make sure that you don't lose touch with reality. Sometimes, by becoming involved in a fictitious world, you can become obsessed with it and every waking moment is filled with thoughts of leveling up your character or what will happen next to the hero.
Also, you shouldn't use this method to run away from your problems. Use it to help you cool off? Sure. Use it so you don't have to deal with an unpleasantry? No.
Finally, and most importantly, is the subject of prayer and giving it over to God. This is not easy, but it is vital. Pray about your problem. Ask God for a solution and ask for wisdom in discerning how to deal with it. Also, ask God for a compassionate heart so that you might not get angry again. Don't let the sun go down on your anger...don't let it fester. Deal with the problem. You will find that you'll feel a lot better.
Have I flipped my lid?
WHAT?! HOW COULD YOU ASK SUCH A STUPID... *cough* Umm...sorry...no, I haven't.
Godspeed.
Flip
This got me thinking about dealing with anger in constructive ways. This issue hits home because I feel like I have been dealing with a lot of anger lately. It has been difficult for me to just let things go. This has led to some relationships of mine to become strained. Now in some instances, the anger has been justified...but not all, and holding onto anger is never appropriate. So what are some ways to release this tension?
A great way I have dealt with my anger is by immersing myself into a story. It is a great way to get your mind off of a subject and onto something else so you don't end up brooding. For me, many times, this will take the form of videogame playing or reading a good book.
I will warn, however, that this can become dangerous. Make sure that you don't lose touch with reality. Sometimes, by becoming involved in a fictitious world, you can become obsessed with it and every waking moment is filled with thoughts of leveling up your character or what will happen next to the hero.
Also, you shouldn't use this method to run away from your problems. Use it to help you cool off? Sure. Use it so you don't have to deal with an unpleasantry? No.
Finally, and most importantly, is the subject of prayer and giving it over to God. This is not easy, but it is vital. Pray about your problem. Ask God for a solution and ask for wisdom in discerning how to deal with it. Also, ask God for a compassionate heart so that you might not get angry again. Don't let the sun go down on your anger...don't let it fester. Deal with the problem. You will find that you'll feel a lot better.
Have I flipped my lid?
WHAT?! HOW COULD YOU ASK SUCH A STUPID... *cough* Umm...sorry...no, I haven't.
Godspeed.
Flip
Friday, December 19, 2008
Is it worth it?
So now I have decided to pose the question. If anyone reads this, feel free to give your thoughts.
Is marriage worth it? I mean, there are many reasons to remain single. Not only would a person have the independence that being single provides, but also the flexibility for ministry. A person wouldn’t have to worry about pleasing his spouse or worry about presenting her as holy and blameless before the Lord. It’s difficult trying to remain holy by one’s self, let alone trying to keep another holy. Plus there are a bunch of annoying things you have compromise on…and…you get in-laws. But seriously, without a spouse, you are forced to become independent, and that is a good thing.
At the same time, marriage brings about a lot growth. There are things that a guy would keep doing, if not for his wife telling him to stop. A person can see different aspects of God in his spouse that he might not have seen before. She can spur him on in his faith…and more than that, he has the privilege of doing the same. Not only that, certain desires are met that would just lead to sin otherwise. Spouses can cover each other’s weaknesses and really help in ministry. Also, marriage can be joyous—you may take joy in each other (I don’t just mean sex). That’s spectacular.
These lists are not meant to be comprehensive, but just to provoke thought. Myself, I am not entirely sold on the thought that marriage is worth it. I might meet the woman of my dreams…and she would be worth it. Getting to know God more is worth it. To be married just to be married, or just for sex…that’s stupid.
Have I flipped my lid?
4 out of 5 psychiatrists agree that I am.
Godspeed.
Flip
Is marriage worth it? I mean, there are many reasons to remain single. Not only would a person have the independence that being single provides, but also the flexibility for ministry. A person wouldn’t have to worry about pleasing his spouse or worry about presenting her as holy and blameless before the Lord. It’s difficult trying to remain holy by one’s self, let alone trying to keep another holy. Plus there are a bunch of annoying things you have compromise on…and…you get in-laws. But seriously, without a spouse, you are forced to become independent, and that is a good thing.
At the same time, marriage brings about a lot growth. There are things that a guy would keep doing, if not for his wife telling him to stop. A person can see different aspects of God in his spouse that he might not have seen before. She can spur him on in his faith…and more than that, he has the privilege of doing the same. Not only that, certain desires are met that would just lead to sin otherwise. Spouses can cover each other’s weaknesses and really help in ministry. Also, marriage can be joyous—you may take joy in each other (I don’t just mean sex). That’s spectacular.
These lists are not meant to be comprehensive, but just to provoke thought. Myself, I am not entirely sold on the thought that marriage is worth it. I might meet the woman of my dreams…and she would be worth it. Getting to know God more is worth it. To be married just to be married, or just for sex…that’s stupid.
Have I flipped my lid?
4 out of 5 psychiatrists agree that I am.
Godspeed.
Flip
Monday, December 15, 2008
Discerning God’s Will
As many of you know, I have been looking for a new church. As a result of this, I have been trying to discern God’s Will. And this led me to the inevitable question: How do I discern what God’s Will is?
I joked with a friend of mine that God has often used beautiful women to speak to me. While I did say it in jest, there has been an air truth to that statement in my life. Now I say this just to illustrate that people can speak God’s Will to you. God will often use people you respect. However, you must search the Scriptures to ensure that what they are telling you is truly Godly advice. As Acts 17:11 says, “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (ESV).
Also, has the Holy Spirit given you a peace about a certain direction you should head? I went to one church for a while, but I felt nothing but anxiousness and drudgery while there. I didn’t feel good about it at all. Thinking I may be under spiritual attack, I tried to persevere, but it wasn’t so. The anxiousness and drudgery continued. I made the decision then that it must not be the place for me. I then tried a different church where I knew no one and that I found on the internet. While I was nervous, I felt great being there, and a certain joy comes over me when I’m there. I have a peace about it. I’m excited to do God’s work there. I have only gone to a couple services, but I am fairly certain this is where God will have me.
Now while these two ways certainly are not the only ways God speaks to his people, I do think that these are great starting points. And always….ALWAYS search the Scriptures to seek God’s will and confirmation. I guess that should have been first…but I almost take that to be a given. Keep praying for guidance.
Have I flipped my lid?
Probably.
But if I am crazy, then I am crazy for the glory of God.
Godspeed.
Flip
I joked with a friend of mine that God has often used beautiful women to speak to me. While I did say it in jest, there has been an air truth to that statement in my life. Now I say this just to illustrate that people can speak God’s Will to you. God will often use people you respect. However, you must search the Scriptures to ensure that what they are telling you is truly Godly advice. As Acts 17:11 says, “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (ESV).
Also, has the Holy Spirit given you a peace about a certain direction you should head? I went to one church for a while, but I felt nothing but anxiousness and drudgery while there. I didn’t feel good about it at all. Thinking I may be under spiritual attack, I tried to persevere, but it wasn’t so. The anxiousness and drudgery continued. I made the decision then that it must not be the place for me. I then tried a different church where I knew no one and that I found on the internet. While I was nervous, I felt great being there, and a certain joy comes over me when I’m there. I have a peace about it. I’m excited to do God’s work there. I have only gone to a couple services, but I am fairly certain this is where God will have me.
Now while these two ways certainly are not the only ways God speaks to his people, I do think that these are great starting points. And always….ALWAYS search the Scriptures to seek God’s will and confirmation. I guess that should have been first…but I almost take that to be a given. Keep praying for guidance.
Have I flipped my lid?
Probably.
But if I am crazy, then I am crazy for the glory of God.
Godspeed.
Flip
Friday, December 12, 2008
Devotionals
I've heard it said that we preach best what we need to learn most. I think that's true. I also think it applies to our devotional time. Our devotional times are best when what we are studying is what we need to learn most.
Many times people get burnt out with their devotional time. I know I do. Reading my Bible and trying to memorize Scripture turns into a chore that we just don't want to do. So what do we do during these times?
My suggestion? Take a break. Now, I don't mean that you should take a break from your devotional time. Just take a break from what you have been doing. Do something different. If you have been memorizing Scripture, take a break from it, and start writing poetry. Sing praises to God. Pray. But change things up a bit. God doesn't want you to get burned out. Hey, you could even read a fiction book (It might sound strange, but I know of a good series that felt like a devotional time each time I opened it up)!
Spending time with God--that's the most important thing. Just make sure what you do for your devotional time helps you become more devoted.
Have I flipped my lid?
Maybe.
But I think it's important to look at things a little differently sometimes.
Godspeed.
Flip
Many times people get burnt out with their devotional time. I know I do. Reading my Bible and trying to memorize Scripture turns into a chore that we just don't want to do. So what do we do during these times?
My suggestion? Take a break. Now, I don't mean that you should take a break from your devotional time. Just take a break from what you have been doing. Do something different. If you have been memorizing Scripture, take a break from it, and start writing poetry. Sing praises to God. Pray. But change things up a bit. God doesn't want you to get burned out. Hey, you could even read a fiction book (It might sound strange, but I know of a good series that felt like a devotional time each time I opened it up)!
Spending time with God--that's the most important thing. Just make sure what you do for your devotional time helps you become more devoted.
Have I flipped my lid?
Maybe.
But I think it's important to look at things a little differently sometimes.
Godspeed.
Flip
Walk
I find myself walking,
Further, deeper, to find
What I don’t know.
The quest too long for anyone,
has taken me hostage.
For it must be found,
that which is lost within.
Too opposing forces
and gone.
Continue to hunt,
Continue to seek,
That Will,
that will consume me,
and have me righteous.
_
Further, deeper, to find
What I don’t know.
The quest too long for anyone,
has taken me hostage.
For it must be found,
that which is lost within.
Too opposing forces
and gone.
Continue to hunt,
Continue to seek,
That Will,
that will consume me,
and have me righteous.
_
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)