The future present

Free "Beef" Hot Dogs for ALL!

2010-07-06T10:40:00.004-05:00

Ok before I get into the hot dogs and the outcry of the vegetarians out there, let me share something with you first.

As I was praying for this week and all of the opportunities there are going to be for sharing the Gospel, I was stirred with a violent intercession for the Lost. As though NOW is the time for SALVATION! We are entering a season of harvest and we need to be prepared and ready to embrace people with the love of Christ and his life changing POWER!
I was reading in 1 thess. 5:9 this morning "For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ who died for us that whether we are awake of asleep we may live together with Him, so therefore ENCOURAGE one another, and BUILD UP one another"

What a powerful passage, God has DESTINED us for salvation not for wrath, judgement, and Hell. Jesus came not to condemn the world but to SAVE the world. God desires ALL would be saved. HE LOVES THE WHOLE WORLD!
Now think of the most horrible sinner you know, if your like me you know alot of them. Now instead of thinking of there sin and mistakes and failure, think of them as saved, healed and delivered. Think of them out of the darkness and into the light, think of them walking in there calling to know God and worship Him. Now that is lining up your thoughts with God's that is what He has destined them for, not for wrath, but for salvation.

And in verse 11 we see how to get them there - BY ENCOURAGING AND BUILDING UP ONE ANOTHER. In verse 14 Paul says, "We urge you to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with ALL MEN. Always seek after that which is good for one another and for ALL MEN. Paul is not just telling the christians to build up each other, but ALL men, and ALL means that horrible, unrighteous, perverted, foul mouthed, SINNER! If you looked past the outward sin, you would probably see alot of hurt, pain, bitterness, wounding, and rejection. If were going to see the Harvest, we have to reach out, love, help, encourage strengthen, and build up the wounded, rejected, doubting, hurting, angry and weak!

Ok so back to this week. Please invite everyone you know this Sunday morning to Shady Grove Church. We will be having our community cookout with all the free "BEEF" Nathan hot dogs, chips, snow cones, desert contest, games and giveaways and music. Its going to be a blast and we will be giving an IPAD away to one of our guests. We will also be sharing the love of Christ and His life changing power to everyone there.

Service starts at 10, cookout immediately following. Please dress casual, and bring lawn chairs, bug repellent and of course friends and family!

We also will be doing our homeless outreach this thursday from 8:30-11. If you would like to donate, please let me know.

Thanks for reading
Josh

Outreach this week!

2010-06-14T13:34:00.004-05:00

First of all, if you have not listened to the message this week on a Community of Reach (Up, In and Out) you need to do so. It was an excellent message from Jon Dunn. Or any of the messages from the series called Convergence from the last month. Go here to listen http://virb.com/shadygrovechurch

I am excited that we have an opportunity as a community to reach out to thousands of people in need this Saturday. We will be joining Saints Chapel in Ft. Worth for the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration. We will be providing free food, clothes, the stage, and our bounce houses for the event. Its going to be at Hillside Park which is right down the street from Saints Chapel in Ft. Worth where we do most of our homeless outreaches. The event starts at 2 and goes until dark.
If you would like to volunteer you can come to the park and help with cooking, passing out clothes, bounce houses, and many more opportunities to serve.
We also will need help loading/ unloading the trailer at 11AM in the PTC Warehouse.

And remember that in everything you do that you are reaching up to God, Reaching in to Each other, and Reaching Out to those in need. When we help meet the needs of others we please the heart of God and we show the heart of God, and we feel the heart of God.
Have a great week!
Josh

Lets give this blog thing one more try

2010-06-08T12:13:00.001-05:00

I am going to try and attempt to blog again, I am leery of this due to the speculation that noone would read this, which then would be a waste of my time, which is a precious thing. But as I was listing my reasons and excuses for why I do not need to blog, that twitter and facebook status updates are more than enough to communicate, that blogs are irrelevant, that people truly wouldn't care about what I have to say, or what God has shown me, and many more "lame excuses" I read this in my quiet time.
2 Corinthians 10:5 - "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised p against the knowledge of God and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ"
Hmmm....every thing I listed and thought...is just this "speculation". How often do we speculate, the word here is imagine, think up in our minds. How often do these imaginations, or speculations, keep us from being obedient and doing what were supposed to do.
Like thinking...that person would not want me to go up to them and tell them Jesus loves them, speculation.
Or if I invite that person to church there just going to make fun of me...speculation.
Or noone cares what I have to say, I am unoworthy, I am a lame duck...speculation!
Paul says we need to destroy, tear down these speculations. The message Bible says "smashing this warped way of thinking"
And after we tear them down and smash them to the ground we take them captive, throw them out like we do the trash that has no use anymore.

You are a child of God, You belong to Jesus, You are highly favored, blessed and are called to increase and be fruitful. When you imagine yourself as less than what God says about you, you are listening to speculations that if you do not destroy them, they will destroy you!
You will be suprised, as I am, about not only how much God cares about you, but other people in your life do too. Sometimes the thing you have to say could be the very life that person needs to hear. So don't speculate or imagine that you are not important enough to make a difference. As we are declaring for 100 days: God Loves you, Blesses you and cause you to Increase! Anything that comes against this is speculation and needs to be smashed into tiny pieces and thrown out with the trash.
Wow, I forgot how much fun it is to blog!
Hopefully it won't be a year until my next one.
Blessings
Josh

CAMP WAS AWESOME!!!

2009-07-19T22:01:00.002-05:00

Well I am sitting here on sunday night reflecting on a wonderful week of summer camp with the youth!
It was a great week of seeing a generation coming into there calling to be a REFORMATION GENERATION! To take a stand for righteousness and building a foundation on the word of God to see a SHIFT towards repentance and REAL CHANGE For our Country! This is the most important Generation in History, so lets get behind them, pray for them and encourage them in there important destiny!
I love Shady Grove Church because we believe in this generation and we want to get behind them, because they are the HOPE FOR THE FUTURE!!
check out a video of the last night where we knighted all the young men to be who God called them to be

After an amazing week I can only get even more excited about this week!!!
Here is what is coming up

The Gathering on Tuesday Night - Join us for a night of worship and special speaker Jon Dunn as he speaks on how to prepare for the season of Courtship! It is truly going to be an amazing night!

1829 - Expect the unexpected as we are fresh off of Camp and who knows whats going to happen, all i Know is it is going to be crazy and you DO NOT WANT TO MISS IT!!!!!

Hope to see you this week!
Josh Briscoe

Everything you need to know about This Sunday!

2009-07-01T10:24:00.001-05:00

This Sunday is our bring one service/church cookout/softball sunday extravaganza celebration!!!
Ok that is not the official title, but there is so much going on I decided to write about it so you are in the know.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do I bring?
- All you need to bring is your friends, family, co-workers and anyone else you can fit in your mini-van! All the food, drinks and fun will be provided. Just bring at least one person who could use a great time of community fellowship. You can also bring a lawn chair or blanket if you would like and if you want to bring a homeade desert for the desert competition then go for it!
Oh and as always bring a smile on your face and a good attitude, ready to have a blast!

2. Is there a service?
Yes!!!! It will not be a normal service as in the time frame, but we will have a time of praise and worship and a short evangelistic message on being dependent upon Jesus! And yes we are praying for salvation for this morning! We will also honor all of our softball players, coaches and especially the softball committee that keeps it going every year. The service will be short but POWERFUL!
Directly after the service we will go to the House of Prayer Grounds for the picnic and festivities.

3. What kind of Festivities will there be
Great Question. We will have bounce houses for the kids, a dunk booth where you can dunk, you guessed it, ME and this really cool guy named Jon Dunn. I know you all want to throw something at me, this is your chance. There will also be a Hot Dog Eating Competition in light of the 4th of July Holiday. There will also be door prizes for everyone who gets a plate of food (hot dog, hamburger, chips and drink) and a desert competition with a sweet prize for the winner. We will also have our City Life Kids Truck out with good music and much more!

What time will it be over
Service starts at 10 and the cookout will go until around 1:00

4. What do I wear?
SHORTS! It is going to be hot, so please dress comfortably and casual. This is your chance to wear shorts to church, even though some of you do anyway which is cool by the way. Please dress modestly though, no swimwear and please wear a shirt guys! Ha, could you imagine if someone showed up with no shirt.

5. What if it is too hot?
The good news is it is supposed to be a little cooler this weekend, but we will still have plenty of cover with tents and trees and we will have misters out. The Lounge will be open in the House of Prayer for those who cant take the heat. There will be plenty of bottled water which I encourage you to drink plenty of!

Well I think that's it! I know this blog has alot of exclamation points, but that is because I am so excited!!!
See ya Sunday
Blessings
Josh Briscoe

DO NOT MISS SUNDAY MORNING AT SHADY GROVE THIS WEEK!!!!

2009-05-19T10:42:00.004-05:00

You do not want to miss this sunday morning at Shady Grove Church. We are so excited to have the Jesus Culture worship team leading us in worship. I believe there album Your Love Never Fails is one of the best worship albums to come out in the last few years. You can check it out here

There will be many people joining us for our sunday morning service from the conference and we will hear all the testimonies as hundreds of radical young adults and teenagers go out to the streets to pray for the sick, and show compassion to the Lost. It is going to be an awesome weekend.
We also will have the privilege to hear from Shawn Alexander, professional Football plater and former MVP of the NFL with Seattle Seahawks.

Shawn has a powerful testimony and the Lord is using him to spread His Goodness all over the NFL.

So everyone needs to come to Shady Grove Church this Sunday Morning for a powerful time together!

if you still want to register for the conference this weekend, you can either
1) Come to the Encounter Service this Wed Night at Shady Grove where we will have last minute registration
or
2) Go to www.jesusculture.org/dallas/

It's going to be a great weekend!
Josh

What you need to know about the Encounter Service

2009-05-13T10:07:00.004-05:00

I would like to invite you all next Wednesday night to our 3rd Encounter Service of the year. We excited and expectant about what God is doing and is going to do on this powerful night were we will gather together for one purpose - TO ENCOUNTER THE LIVING GOD!! This is open for all ages, that includes you Jim...Sorry that was a side not for our Men's Pastor who is an amazing guy!
We will also be recording the service for our upcoming live worship album with our worship leaders Levi Smith, Steven Parra, and Austing Benjamin. These guys are writing some amazing new worship and praise songs that we want to put on a cd for more people to hear from around the world! We are also going to have a last minute registration for Jesus Culture which starts next Friday and will have one of the Jesus Cultre Speakers there to talk about what they are expecting with this conference.
I hope you can all make plans to attend and worship with us and see what God's going to do!
Due to the Encounter Service we will not have the Gathering on Tuesday night, so everyone from the Gathering can come wednesday night.
Be blessed and spread the word!
Josh

Im back to the Blog thing!

2009-05-04T11:55:00.001-05:00

Ok after an extended vacation from blogging I am making an attempt to pick it back up. There is so much going on that I feel it is necessary and I have too much to say and not enough places to say it. So here goes nothing, or everything.
I thought this would be a good chance to give you all a heads up for whats going on this week.
On wed. night we are excited to have Mezmur Zemichael from Ethiopia as our special speaker. Mezmur is a powerful evangelist from Ethiopia who will impart the Spirit of God. We are expecting God to do amazing things on Wed. Night. Because we want everyone to be there we are not going to have the Gathering's regular service on Tuesday night this week. For those who want to hang out on Tuesday night still we will meet at the church at 7 and be going to Buffalo Wild Wings for 40 cent wings baby and a good time of fellowship! And possibly for those interested we will see a 9:00 showing of Wolverine. This is for those who still want to hang out on tuesday
BUT EVERYONE NEEDS TO BE HERE WED NIGHT!!!!
We also have Jesus Culture at Shady Grove Church May 22nd -24th! You can register at www.jesusculture.org
On wed. Night May 20th we will be having a pre jesus culture rally for our Encounter Service with a night of worship and ministry!
Thats it for now. Looking forward to seeing you all this week that will be around and for eveyone else I'll see you when I see you and I look forward to it!
have a great week
Josh

What a week!!!

2009-02-09T14:17:00.002-06:00

This has been one of the best, fullfilling weeks of my life. I just want to testify to the amazing good God we serve! I find myself more excited and expectant than I have been in years and it seems to open doors that I could never open. In the last week, I have been able to preach in our Sunday service, at the tuesday night cfni service, celebrate 7 years of amazing marriage with the most amazing woman ever, be apart of our annual sky ranch weekend retreat that was one of the best we have ever had, way to go nathan, and be apart of what I believe is the beginning of a fresh move of God here at Shady Grove this past sunday morning. I am excited and one of the reasons is VISION!!! If you have no vision, you will have no expectancy, and you can have no excitement about your life! There is vision that God wants to give you for your personal life and for your church - It has to come from the place of worship though! That is where God gives us vision, when we are worshipping and exalting and loving Him!

Anyway it is exciting to live in these days where the gospel of the Kingdom is going to be preached to the whole world, and I do not want to miss being apart of this end time Harvest!!
Don't miss out
Josh

Oh yeah, this tuesday night Marvin Slaton will be preaching and sharing in the Gathering. It is going to be awesome! Hope to see you there.

A day of History

2009-01-19T23:43:00.003-06:00

I have to admit that I am a proud American on a day like today where we celebrate one of the the greatest History Makers in the world - Martin Luther King Jr. who delivered one of the greatest, moving speeches ever given about having a Dream, if you haven't read his speech lately here is a taste
I have a dream today.

"I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. This is our hope. This is the faith with which I return to the South. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

There is much more just google I have a dream speech!

And tomorrow we will see what could be another African American who has the oppurtunity to be one of the greatest History Makers of all time be sworn in as our next president. I wonder if he will give a speech that will truly prophecy the future like MLK did, I for one will be watching and praying, and although I have many disagreements with policies I am excited to celebrate one of the fullfillments of a speech given years ago by Martin Luther King and to hear a speech from our first african american president!!!

If you are not doing anything tomorrow night, THE GATHERING will have a special night of worship, watching some of the address, and praying for our country. Anyone is invited and I believe God is going to move on our hearts in a special way!
Hope to see you there
Blessings and Happy MLK day!
Josh

Are you stirred or stagnant

2008-12-31T06:26:00.003-06:00

I am excited about the new year. So much I can't sleep, I am getting up at 5 and just seeking the Lord and being stirred up in my spirit for more!
I have definitely been in a place as a Christian where I feel more stagnant in my spirit than stirred in the Spirit. I feel that the Lord is wanting to STIR UP the Body of Christ to WORK HARD to build His Kingdom. I for one am ready to do whatever it takes to Build and Grow the Kingdom of God before His soon return!
In Zephaniah 1:12 it says, "And it will come about at that time that I will search Jerusalem with Lamps And I will punish the men Who are stagnant in spirit Who say in there hearts, The Lord will not do good or evil."
In Haggai 1:14 it says, "So the Lord Stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel and the spirit of Joshua the High Priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people, and they came and WORKED on the house of the Lord of hosts, their God.
Do you see the difference in being stagnant in spirit and being stirred in spirit
Those who were stagnant were indifferent, they were building there own houses and vineyards, but not the Lord's House. They had no idea what God was up to, and they did not believe God would do anything bad or good. No Expectation, No Cause, No Kingdom Purpose - this is what it means to be stagnant in Spirit.
When you look at those who are stirred in the spirit - It says they WORKED to rebuild the House of the Lord. There was Unity, Expectations, Purpose, and people were willing to give there time and energy and WORK HARD to build HIs Kingdom.

When you are Stirred you will work hard for His Kingdom, to help build the church, to reach out to those who are lost, to Seek God daily, to Give Yourself to a new Lifestyle of Servanthood, be on FIRE FOR GOD!
When you are Stagnant you will work hard for Your Kingdom, not care about the church, not care about people who are lost, have no desire to seek God, live a lifestyle of selfishness and be LUKEWARM!

If you are reading this and you feel stagnant in Spirit - Repent and ask the Lord to stir your heart, to stir up your Spirit. You are made of Spirit, Soul and Body. The Lord will hear your cry and will stir you up, just like he did to Zerubbabel and the people in Jerusalem.

If you are reading this and you are stirred - Don't be Silent, Serve your Church and Pastors (They need you!!!) Get Involved, and Get Out and let that Fire spread to those who are Stagnant!

Happy New Year - It's going to be Great!
Josh

Update

2008-12-18T14:20:00.003-06:00

I havent blogged in a while, so here goes! I was the sickest I have ever been in my life with pneumonia. It was horrible, I literally thought I was dying. I am not a sit in bed and watch tv kind of guy and I had to stay in bed for two weeks!!!! I was going crazy!
Anyway I am doing much better, I lost 15 pounds, which I think was all muscle, I have never felt so weak in my life! I can't play hockey or work out until after Christmas according to the doctor, so I cant wait to start being physically active again! Thanks to all who prayed for me and sent me encouraging messages!
On another note, we are building a house and it is finally starting to feel like something is getting done as our frame is up! Here is a picture I took today.

It is officially Christmas Party season, since I came back from pneumonia I have gone to six Christmas Parties, and I have only been back 6 days! The Gathering and 1829 Christmas Parties were a huge success, and I am sad we have no more services for the year, but I am so looking forward to 2009!
And finally, if you arent doing anything tomorrow morning we are having our annual Holiday of Hope at Shady Grove. You can come and help volunteer by handing out christmas gifts, groceries or help in the warehouse. The gathering will be passing out donuts and hot chocalate to the cars as they wait for there stuff. This is an amazing event that I look forward to every year!

Merry Chritmas
Josh

And were back...

2008-11-10T15:25:00.004-06:00

I just got back from Seattle and Spokane with Nathan Watkins. It was an amazing time and oppurtunity to hook up with good friends and minister the good news in a time of confusion. I for one am super excited about the days were living in, not a time of despair, but of great expectations. I will be sharing in the Gathering on more of this in a message titles "The Difference"
I was able to preach in Pastor Judah Smith's University service for Generation Church and then me and Nathan preached at an amazing youth conference in Spokane with over 300 teenagers that our good friends Nehemiah Rudolph and Trevor Seaman put on. Those guys are amazing at what they are releasing in the Northwest. I have never seen two youth pastors of separate churches with more unity and love in my entire life. Anyway it's great to be home, as Pastor Judah says, in the Nation of Texas and the state of Dallas!
I highly reccommend you come to the Gathering and 1829 this week!! It is going to be insane!
Have a great day
Josh

To Marian: From Josh and Emily!

2008-11-01T09:54:00.002-05:00

Be Still

2008-10-30T09:18:00.002-05:00

In my quiet time this morning, I realized how little I obey Psalm 46:10 - Be Still, Cease Striving, It literally means STOP!
Psalm 46:10 - "Be still and know that I am God." How do you get in touch with the heart of God, with the plans of God, with the perspective of God? Be still. To Stop and to Sit! Now the enemy of our souls knows that, so he simply tries to jam God's communications to us by covering them up with lots and lots of noise.

And it's easy to let it happen in our busy, busy lives. A telephone at home, a telephone at work, a cell phone with us everywhere. We've got them in our car, we've got phones in our pocket, we've got beepers to get us when phones can't, we've got faxes and e-mails and text messaging. And people's voices - our children, our mate, our friends, our coworkers - they are always transmitting to us. We've been raised with television, radio, videos, computers, home entertainment centers, Ipods, and CDs. We wake up to background sound, we get ready to it, we drive to it, we exercise with it, we relax with it, and we go to sleep with it. And then there's the "quiet noise" - newspapers, magazines, novels, and piles of mail. And I for one am guilty of always having something on.

We've been raised in such a noisy world that silence actually makes a lot of us uncomfortable. If there isn't background sound, we turn some on fast! And yet God says He is best known in silent times. We have so few. And while Christian radio and TV, Christian music, can encourage our growth in Christ, even they can jam what God wants to say to our heart if we keep them going constantly.

As Martha was stressfully running around serving Jesus, He told her that what her sister Mary was doing was the most important thing, quietly sitting at His feet just listening to Him. That's what we have way too little of. We have plenty of Martha busyness, but not much Mary quietness, just listening to Jesus. As a result, our minds are stressed and our souls are parched.

This is what I read in my devotion today -
"I wonder if God is saying to you in the midst of the barrenness of a busy life, "Slow down. You're missing Me in all of this because you're not protecting our quiet times." You literally have to fight for those quiet times in a world of noise. You drive without the radio on just so you can listen to your Lord. You leave the TV off, you skip the news, you exercise without the music, you go away if necessary just to be still and know He is God. Begin by praising Him specifically for attributes and actions that you've been experiencing, and then listen to Him through extended time in His Word. Pour out your deepest feelings to Him in prayer and listen in your soul for His responses. Keep a note pad handy and write down whatever He seems to be saying during this time when His voice is the only one you're listening to."

The hebrew text in Psalm 46:10 literally means "CEASE STRIVING, or STOP TRYING SO HARD, and know that I am God!
I challenge you today to stop whatever your doing and sit at the feet of Jesus and just let go of the stress, the schedule, the to-do list, the media, the future, whatever is keeping you from just being with Him - tune out so you can tune in to what He has to say, and I bet what He wants to say is something to the tune of "I love You Child and You are Mine! I will take care of you! I will guide you!
God is good
Josh

Video Blog

2008-10-28T12:20:00.002-05:00

This is my attempt at being cutting edge and communicating in a more personal way!
Check it out

My Emily

2008-10-23T12:04:00.003-05:00

I have a new favorite activity to do with Emily. We go to Starbucks for breakfast, I have done it twice this week, and she loves it. She even says Starbucks like 8 times when we pull up. It is a fun daddy, daughter time as I will get a coffee and muffin or something and ask her if she wants chocolate milk or apple juice, and she always has a hard time deciding because she wants both, since it is the only time she ever can drink anything besides water and rice milk, which is all we give her at the house.
And she loves to go up to strangers and talk to them, I always like to see whether people will get annoyed or bothered by a little girl smiling and talking to them, or if they will enjoy it. Most of the time it is the perfect icebreaker, in fact today this arab man who looked pretty upset, was taken back by Emily wanting to talk and hang out with him, by the end he was smiling, I think she made his day. I am going to have her witnessing to strangers by the age of 3, sharing Jesus. She is going to be a little evangelist!!
I really think she has got the best of both me and Marian - My Eyes, Marian's beautiful nose, ears, and mouth, My personality with Marian's Smarts. She is perfect and I love her like crazy, she is my little Emily!

On another note we had an amazing night last night in our Missions Night with The gathering and 1829 combined. It was a packed house and Charles Victor shared an awesome message and the most exciting part is that the youth pledged 400 dollars a month to missionaries which I think is incredible.
Thats it
Josh

Debating the Debate

2008-10-16T14:05:00.001-05:00

As I watched the debate last night I couldn't help but wish I was a writer for SNL. I just can't help but think of how I could take something so serious and make fun of it. I don't know if there is something wrong with me, or that is just the way God made me.

I wonder if I could do a drama about the debate in the church about church issues or to communicate announcements using actors playing the presidential candidates. Think about it I could get Justin Ransom to play Joe Biden with big fake teeth, Jennifer Nickerson as Sarah Palin with her glasses, Zach Lowrie playing John McCain with a gray wig just talking about plumber Joe and being a maverick, and of course Courtney Fuller playing Barak Obama because just like SNL you have one black guy to play all the parts that are portraying an african american. And everyone would laugh at Courtney know matter how bad his impersonation was. Think about it a Debate to announce the missions conference with them arguing over which night to attend.
Just typing this blog makes me miss doing drama. I wrote skits every week for three years. You may remember
Bill and Al's Counseling service with Justin playing Bill Clinton and Zach playing Al Gore with a special appearance from Andrew Heep playing Ross Perot
Celebrity Jeopardy with Zach as Alex Trebek, Courtney Fuller as Mr. T, Dan Hopkins as Burt Reynolds, and Justin as Sean Connery.
There were so many I can't remember.
Anyway after watching the debate, and remember this is not a political blog, I think everyone knows who I am voting for and I thought he did as well as he could, except he didn't always answer the question and I am really afraid to admit how He is pretty boring in debates, although that does not mean he cannot be an amazing president. I was glad to see they finally asked the Abortion question and I was very pleased with how McCain said he believes that Roe vs Wade could be overturned.
Anyway I hope you all vote and come out for our election night tailgate 08 Party in the parking lot of Shady Grove Church.
More on that later
Have a great weekend and remember the missions conference starts Sunday Morning with special speaker Matthias Bolsteri from Zurich, Switzerland
Peace
Josh

Blog Action Day

2008-10-15T15:20:00.003-05:00

I just found out that today is blog action day and the theme is poverty! So here is my two cents - "TWO CENTS IS NOT ENOUGH"
I need to do more to help people less fortunate and so do you. That doesn't mean that I want to give more money to the government because of higher taxes. On a small rabbit trail do you know that if you look at the republican candidates vs the democratic candidates charitable giving you would be appalled! You can do the research and see who is a bigger giver, and I will leave it at that as I do not want my blog to be politcal!

So back to my two cents and your two cents - It is not enough. Poverty is a real cause and I know I can do more. In our church alone we have a People That Care Center and I do not volunteer near enough.
I feel we are called to Go to the poor, widow and orphans and it is God's heart for us to not be poor, but to help the poor. If God wanted us to help the poor, that means he has given us the means to do so, whether that is time, money, it requires our resources and action. Prayer is important but not enough, we must do something!
So I have decided that every Thursday afternoon for lunch I am going to start going and serving the PTC as just a place to start.
If you want to join me tomorrow it is right of Jefferson street On Galveston Road in Grand Prairie. I will be there at 11:00
For another good blog go to Niles Blog who told me about this whole blog action day thing!

So what can you do to help the poor, hopefully give more than two cents!
Blessings
Josh
And for all you teenagers don't let the rainy day keep you from coming to 1829 tonight, it is going to be awesome as Pastor Nathan kicks off a new series "Awakened"

God and Jerry Jones are alot alike!!

2008-10-15T11:28:00.005-05:00

Wow!! That's all I can say about this week for the Dallas Cowboys. Let's run down the list Romo Out four weeks, Sam Hurd out for year, Matt McBriar out for year, Felix Jones out four weeks, Terrance Newman possibly out for season with sports hernia, and PacMan Jones suspended indefinitely!!! But its amazing that in the middle of all this bad news, Jerry Jones goes out and does something to make all of us Cowboy fans excited and feel good, in the midst of all of the negative media, and injuries about how are season is over! He trades for Texas Longhorn Great Roy Williams!!!!!! And for some reason I just can't stop smiling, even though I know there are a lot of bad things going on, at least there is one thing I can get excited about and thats ROY WILLIAMS BABY!!! I love having Jerry Jones as an Owner because I know he loves the Cowboys more than anyone and wants what is best for His Team!
You know we can learn a lot about our lives and our God through the Cowboys, yes that's right there is a lesson in my sports obsession.
Sometimes in life there are so many things that can seem negative, kind of like that negative media. There are so many trials going on like all of those injuries the cowboys had this week. And we can get down about our life, and dwell in the land of sorrow. But we have an owner, if you will, who loves us so much and wants to do something to put a smile on our face even in the hard times. And if we will focus on the ONE THING, a God who loves and cares for us so much. and not on all of the bad things like stress, economy, our failures, sickness or injury, etc.... we will have a smile and heart that is excited! It is not that all of the bad news will just go away, it is that we will not want to just go away with it, we will not lose motivation, we will not lose passion, we will not give up, we will not stop caring - because that is exactly what the enemy wants!! But we will have a newfound excitement, we will be filled with purpose, we will walk in mercy and grace, we will be a light in hard times.
I will never forget the elderly man from Hurricane Katrina that I met at Salvation Army, he had lost everything, his house, his church, his cars, but yet he had a smile on his face and he was helping the volunteers at salvation army. I asked him where that smile came from in times like this. He said, "I havent lost everything, I still have God" That is what I am talking about!

So God and Jerry Jones are alot alike, in that they both love what they own and want to do something that will inspire there team to keep believing, to keep going towards the prize!

So if you have had a lot of bad news this week, or just had a hard time this week, or feel overwhelmed, or feel like a failure, or feel defeated - Begin to dwell on the ONE THING!! There is a living God who has your best in mind and wants to do something for you today that will bring back that excitement or passion, even in the middle of a crazy storm in your life. Because He loves you so much!!!!
If your not sure your on His team all you have to do is believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and Confess Him as your Saviour. You can always call me or write me if you want to know more about this amazing relationship with God!

Have a great week
And Go Cowboys!
Josh

Farewell Starbucks!

2008-10-10T15:22:00.003-05:00

Well, not to the entire company, but to my favorite store on Green Oaks and Collins. I can't explain why it is my favorite store, but when I walk in I feel at home and sadly, I really am going to miss that little starbucks store that just couldn't make it. I am sure I will begin to build a new relationship with the store on Collins and Lamar with some good friends that work there,but I will definitely miss this one with its no drive through, friendly baristas, the occasional hook up on a drink, and right on the way home location. Here is some pictures of my last visit today with Josh Davis and my brother Brandon.

Here is the table that I was one of the first to sign

And here is what I wrote and although I think it is hilarious if you know who wrote "is gay" I would appreciate the info. It is pretty funny, just not true and I would like to know who so I can blacklist them, jk.

On another note I am excited about some sports this weekend. The Dallas Stars start off there season tonight, I love hockey! And tomorrow at 11:00 the big game TEXAS vs OU!!!! I am predicting and rooting for a Texas win which should put them at #1 in the polls, since OU is #1 in the country right now. It is going to be a great game and OU is favored, but I have a feeling about the Longhorns this year, maybe I am just a homer, which come to think of it is probably true!
Have a great weekend
Josh

The Future Present

2008-10-09T10:41:00.001-05:00

I have decided to change the name of my blog from changing whats normal to the future present. Let me explain.
I believe that we are living in the future, and here is what I mean. James 4:14 says, "You do not know what your life will be like tomorrow, You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away."
your life is a vapor, here today gone tomorrow!!!!
That is a sobering reality when you are living for tomorrow, for the future, which most people are living for. I hear it all the time, "I can't wait until I am out of high school, graduated from college, married, with kids, moving away, have a new job, making more money, finally in a house, retired"
We are always living for tomorrow and when we live with that mindset we miss the very best time of our life - TODAY!!!!
So I want to be someone who lives for the future in the present, or to put it this way....Today is the future, Today is what I am living for!
We don't live by years, we live by days!
So don't worry about tomorrow, or the future, what can you do today to live life to the fullest, to be fulfilled, to have fun, to learn, to contribute, to be used by God, to make someone's day, to be a light. So that tomorrow you can be fullfilled from today! That is the Future Present, and I hope it makes sense, because it does to me!
Heres to Today!
Josh

pics from the iphone

2008-10-08T15:49:00.002-05:00

I now have had an iphone for a few months and I do have to say that I love it! Every once in a while I will take a random picture and I figured I would share some of them with you.

This was taken at the last ranger game of the season and we went down to the first row, this ump had a sweet stache and he was posing for me here.

This one is hard to see but it is picture of a plaque of Mickey Mantle at the Mickey Mantle Restraunt right outside of Central Park in New York, I had to take this because he is my dad's favorite baseball player

Another blurry one, but I took this while I was walking by a protest in front of a broadway show. It was the premier of a play in New York starring Katie Holmes and there were all the protestors against scientology telling Katie to get away from Tom, I thought it was hilarious for some reason.

This is the crew right before the Gathering praying really hard for God to come, jk, we were having fun before the service, but we do also pray!

This last one was a random picture I took while running in Central park, while I was in New York. I saw a bunch of media and asked what was going on, I then noticed a guy hanging upside down. It was David Blaine and he was pulling another one of his stunts, I had to take a picture of how ridiculous that guy is!

Anyway that is just a few random shots, I will try and take some better ones as I see the oppurtunity.
I am preaching a message on what a true friend is tonight in 1829 and will post some of my thoughts on this subject tomorrow
Peace
Josh

TO GO!!

2008-10-06T22:26:00.002-05:00

Tuesday night at the Gathring I will be kicking off our new series "TO GO"
Have you ever wanted to just go somewhere, do something, be someone? This series is going to be all about how we can and should GO! It is a commandment of scripture and I believe God wants to send us out. I will be speaking this tuesday part one - "BeCause" We will be looking at why we need to go, and who we need to go to. As always we will have a wonderful time of worship and an amazing time of fellowship after. Hope to see you there and please help spread the word - THE GATHERING HAS GONE WEEKLY AND IT IS AMAZING!!!
Peace
Josh

It's all good

2008-10-06T19:49:00.002-05:00

I just want to say it is so good to be home tonight with my wife and daughter. I know I am getting old, because I am enjoying these kind of nights more than ever. You know come home from work, buy your daughter some m&m's and walk in shaking the bag, and Emily comes running into my arms with the cutest smile in the world! My wife is glad to see me as well and we go to LA Fitness get in a workout. Then, we come home and cook an amazing dinner of salmon and sauteed okra from whole foods. And now we are going to sit down and talk and enjoy watching some tv together.
I used to think these kind of nights were boring, we need to do something, go out, call friends, go to church, do something besides staying home. Now, I look forward to just these boring nights of staying home. So is this normal life, or am I just getting old. I definitely couldnt do this every night, but it sure is nice tonight!

I hope you are all having a good monday night, and will join us tomorrow night for the Gathering where we will start a new series called "To Go"
More on that later
Peace
Josh

Devil Worship

2008-09-17T10:45:00.004-05:00

Last night was an awesome night in the Gathering. Pastor Olen's message still has me thinking of How the Devil hates when we worship God, because that is his desire - our worship! His messgae was called "The Devil's Desire: Worship"
I was thinking this morning on the attach that is on worship in the church. I think that the enemy has a strategy to kill the worship movement. That is why he attacks those that are influential in the worship movement. If you looked through History you would see so many well-known worship leaders fall. The latest I just read about is a guy from Australia that wrote the one of the top worship songs played around the world today, "Healer" It is an amazing song that talks about nothing is impossible with God and that He is our Healer! This worship leader has now come out as a fraud who has major addictions to pornography.
Satan also wants to try and remove real worship from our services, and just have songs that make people feel good, but that do not awaken the heart to magnify, and worship the Living God. I think that if there is anything that Satan hates the most is when we worship God, because he is jealous of our Worship.
When we think of Devil Worship, we usually think of messed up, satanic, psychos sacrificing little animals and shedding blood and doing some dance around a fire with hooded robes. But the truth is when we worship anything besides God, the Devil is happy because at least God is not getting our worship.
Anyway, the message was enlightening and I encourage you all to take some time today, get out a worship cd, and just spend time worshiping your Creator. It will make the Devil mad, and it will please God! And it will bring refreshing to your soul and cleanse your mind! In fact, I think I am going to do it right now!

Next week, Gary Benjamin will be sharing the last part of our series on "Awakened". You do not want to miss it, Pastor Gary has been one of the biggest influences in my life on the life of worship and intimacy with God!
Peace
Josh

Spending Tme with Emily

2008-09-13T08:50:00.006-05:00

I love Friday and Saturday mornings, because I get to hang out with Emily! She is in such a fun stage of life, She tries to repeat everything you say and laughs at everything! Her favorite show is Yo Gabba Gabba and I actually love watching it with her. The music is genius, I recommend this show, even if you don't have kids!

I love watching her do her little dance to songs like "Theres a party in my tummy" And "I am so Happy" - Great stuff!
Well I just wanted to write a blog to say how much I love my little girl, I am thinking it might be time for another one.

Watching Hurricane Ike is a reminder of how precious life is and how James says "it is just a vapor, here today gone tomorrow" I want to live every day with a purpose as it was my last, and I encourage you to do the same. Spend time with people that you love, do something nice for someone, because your relationships are the most important thing in your life! People can cope with losing there house, car or boat far greater than losing a family member or friend. During these times when we see people losing valuable stuff, we realize what is most valuable.

Josh

What a Weekend!

2008-09-08T14:23:00.004-05:00

I love Mondays, especially after an amazing weekend. That's what I had this weekend. It helps that I love football so much. But between College Football, and the kick-off to NFL season, doing a wedding, playing a championship Hockey game, spending time with my amazing, lovely wife and adorable, super fun daughter, and having one of the greatest church services in History I did not have time to write a blog. So here goes
Football is back and better than ever and how can you not be a TO fan now!

My NFL prediction is Dallas Cowboys win it all against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Thats right, another Cowboys vs Steelers Super Bowl. I am excited about the Cowboys this season, they look like the old team of the 90's with a punishing defense and super offense. Plus, I have Tony Romo and Jason Witten on my fantasy, yes I play fantasy football and I enjoy it.
I also had the privilege to marry Richard Taylor to his High school sweetheart Megan. It was a fun ceremony as Megan could not stop crying and it was distracting my message, I guess getting married can be emotional so I will forgive her.
I then went to my Hockey League championship game, and went on to play the worst game of hockey in my life. We lost 6-0 and it was embarassing! It was still fun to play and I enjoyed the season, even though my shoulder is not completely back to normal.
I had a great time with Marian and Emily this weekend as well, they are the two most amazing women in the world and I love to be with them! Emily is in this stage where she tries to repeat everything you say, and it is hilarious. Here she is trying to carry everything in the house

And finally, church yesterday was amazing, Nathan preached an awesome message and then we did the cardboard testimonies. It was such an awesome time in the presence of God. IF you are not in a church right now, I highly reccommend you come to Shady Grove on Sundays, God is really moving and it is fun!

Well, I hope you had a great weekend as well.
I am excited about the Gathering this week as Levi will be preaching part two of the series "Awakened" and Aaron and Christina Smith will be leading worship. Hope to see you there.
Peace
Josh

Tonight!!

2008-09-02T09:30:00.005-05:00

After a great labor day of 5 hours at the pool, where yes I got a little burned I am ready for the new season. This week The Gathering and 1829 will start new series for the Fall and man, I am so pumped! Tonight is the kick-off to our new weekly Gathering and I am so excited. I am expecting God to some Big Things on Tuesday night! I am starting a new series tonight called "AWAKENED"

We will be starting the school year off with a Six Week Series on Worship. Tonight will be part one - Awakened to His Love!
Levi, Pastor Olen and Pastor Gary will be sharing the next three weeks on the Life of Worship! You do not want to miss this series as I believe it will launch every one there into a deeper life with God through a lifestyle of Worship, even in the busiest season of life - The Fall! It is usally in the most important season in life, that we need the most important relationship in Life!
We start at 7:00 and you do not want to be late. Bring someone as long as they are over 18.
See ya tonight
Josh

Culturally Relevant - Why?

2008-08-29T10:20:00.003-05:00

One of the biggest concerns I have for the church today is how much we are pushing being CULTURALLY RELEVANT! There are whole conferences, magazine, and other ways that are telling us to be culturally relevant. Now I do believe that we need to be relevant in the way we communicate, technology, and media. But I do think that we need to be Biblically Relevant before we are Culturally Relevant!! When we apply the Bible to our lives it will be opposite of most of our culture.

Don't get me wrong, I strongly believe we need to engage our culture and get out of the box. I am always trying to be around unbelievers and people outside of the church. I love to hang out with the lost and hurting. But I know that I will never make a difference, if there is not a difference in my life as follower of Jesus Christ and the life of an unbeliever.

When Joshua became the leaders of the Israelites he had to change the culture in oder to accomplish the purpose of God. He makes a bold, opposite of culture declaration in Joshua 24:17. "Throw away the gods our forefathers worshipped...in Egypt and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served...or the gods of the Amorites in whose land your are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."

You have to make that same kind of clear-cut, no-compromise choice. You just can't run your life by two different standards. Jesus said, "No man can serve two masters." Your culture says divorce is OK. Your God says, "I hate divorce" (Malachi 2:16). The world around you says you have to accumulate more and more for security...Jesus says security comes from letting go of what you have and trusting Him to take care of you. You lose your life by hanging onto it; you find your life by giving it away.

The culture says something that portrays things that breaks God's heart is "must see" TV or a "must see" movie. God says, "Guard your heart; it is the wellspring of life" (Proverbs 4:23). Conventional wisdom tells you that you can't be totally honest and succeed. God says, "Put off falsehood and speak truthfully" (Ephesians 4:25) that He will only bless total integrity. Our tolerant culture says, "There are many ways to God." Your Savior says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man comes to the Father except by Me" (John 14:6). Those can't both be true. You have to choose one and stake everything on it.

It's that way with all the choices I mentioned and so many more that you're faced with each day. You can't keep going back and forth between what the world around you says is right and what your Lord says is right. You can't just go God's way when it's convenient, when it's easy, and when it doesn't cost you much. In God's words, you have to "choose this day whom you will serve." When you do, life is a whole lot less confusing.

We need to choose God's Way even if it is the Opposite Way of our culture. Yes lets be engaged in our world, but let's not compromise Biblical Standards to try and fit in!

Leeland has a great song on there new album called "Opposite Way" Check it out

Peace
Josh

Safari Waters

2008-08-23T11:57:00.004-05:00

Me and My lovely wife and daughter decided to get away for 24 hours so we came down to Safari Waters in Athens, TX. Our good friends Nick and Tabitha Lesmeister who were just married decided to come and join us since they just live in Tyler, which is only 30 minutes away. I love coming down here and just going out and looking for animals. Here are some of our discoveries.

It feels good to get away even for a day from the city and relax with family!
Peace
Josh

It's time to start bloging again

2008-08-20T14:32:00.007-05:00

Well the summer break is almost over, so I am going to end my blogging break. There is so much going on I do not know where to start. The summer has been amazing and fast. With Camp starting off the summer with a bang, I can't believe it is already time for school to start back. My summer consisted of Camp, Launch, Germany, Prague, Hanging with my wife and daughter by the pool, Ranger Games, and lots of fun with lots of friends. Summer is always so much fun, but this is my favorite time of the year.
Here are a few pictures from my new iphone 3G from the end of the summer
Emily loving the Rangers

The greatest ranger ever, will we ever have pitching like Nolan Ryan again!!!!

It's not summer without the pool

No that summer is over be sure and be at the end of the summer bash, Fall Kickoff with the Gathering and 1829 combined.

And the "ALL NEW" Gathering starts every week on Tuesday night on September 2nd.

So I hope to see all of you sometime soon. Lets get ready for an amazing Fall!
Peace
Josh

I would rather be busy than bored!

2008-06-26T10:39:00.003-05:00

This picture reminds me of how busy we get, we end up trying to do to many things at one time. I do have to say though that looks like the most comfortable toiilet I have ever seen. I might have to get one of those. Well I have been busy with the busy life, and I have to say that I LOVE IT!!! So much is going on and I am so glad to be back busy. I would much rather be busy than bored.
I finally have some time to write a blog! It has been a while and alot has happened since I last wrote one of these. Here is a rundown
Had an amazing youth camp, One of the best ever!!
Started Launch with 50+ students, this is our student discipleship internship for the summer! It is going awesome!
Had an amazing prophetic week at SGC, I love when God speaks!
But the real reason I have not blogged is because I injured my shoulder playing hockey. I separated the AC Joint which is the ligaments that hold everything together. It was a labeled a severe third degree separation. I was scheduled for surgery on Monday, and was praying that I would not need surgery. Well, my wife and the entire church prayed for me, my wife actually took authority over my body in the name of Jesus, it was powerful!!
I went in to the surgeon, and he said that I did not need surgery anymore, that my collarbone had gone down so much, the x rays did not even look like the shoulder I had the next day. I am still not fully recovered and need prayer. The most depressing thing is I can't play sports, which is one of my favorite things to do. I should heal naturally in six weeks and be back, with a funny looking shoulder.
Anyway thanks to everyone who prayed for me, I felt the power of God through Prayer!

Well we leave in one week for Berlin, I am so excited about this trip.

And lastly, IF you are in the Gathering or are between over 18 we are having a pre-4th of July pool party this Tuesday night at Jennifer Nickerson's house. It is going be a blast, so make plans to be there.
God is Good!
Josh

Berlin Trip!

2008-06-24T23:17:00.002-05:00

Greetings
First of all, this email has been sent to everyone in my contacts, which is alot of people, I understand if some of you do not want to read or recieve this email, and I apologize.
Now, for those of you who have decided to read on, I am leaving for Berlin with a team of 14 young adults and the band Radiant. We will be serving Jeff and Barb Serio who is the director of European Inititiative, this is there website http://www.europeaninitiative.com/http://www.europ
and John and Kelsie Mullen, missionaries in Prague. We will be doing 8 concerts, ministering in many different churches, doing street outreach, and service projects in Berlin. The reason I write this email to everyone in my contacts list is to let you know of a huge development that we have been asked to be a part of. On July 12th Radiant will be headlining at Mauer Park, which is one of the largest public areas in Europe that is well known. Many churches have come together to pray and fast for two weeks leading to the 12th where we have been asked to play and will have the oppurtunity to share the Gospel with many unbelievers. This is an incredible oppurtunity that God has opened the door for us to do. In order to complete this project we need a miracle. The cost to rent equipment, reserve the park and do promotion is very high. Jeff Serio has graciously agreed to help with a big part of the cost. We still need around $6000 to do everything. This cost does not include any our airfare or ground cost as a team, this is simply what we need to raise for this project. Shady Grove Missions Dept. has agreed to match what we can raise and I believe that we will have more than enough.
Please pray and agree with me for everything to come in for us to reach many people with the GOOD NEWS!
Thank You so much for your support and prayers
Josh Briscoe
Student Pastor
Shady Grove Church

If you would like to give towards the Mauer Park Project you can send a check to Shady Grove Church 2404 Carrier Parkway Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Or you can give online at www.shadygrove.org and please put Berlin Trip in the memo
Or you can simply send it to me and I will take care of it.
Any extra money that comes in will be used towards supporting Berlin Missionaries

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!

Josh Hamilton and Camp

2008-05-29T12:42:00.003-05:00

I just met Josh Hamilton at Cracker Barrell. He is my favorite baseball player right now and has an amazing testimony of God rescuing him from drug addiction. He is leading the major league in RBI's and Home Runs.
I asked him to come and speak in the offseason at our church, he said he would love to.
This sunday at the Ranger game, he is going to actually share his testimony after the game with his wife and talk about Jesus. I love how God can use these celebrities who arent ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He is also on the cover of Sports Illustrated with an entire article about his testimony. God is really using this guy, and you should become a fan of His, because He is going to turn around the Texas Rangers.

ITS NOT TOO LATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU CAN STILL GO TO CAMP!
We leave on Monday and you need to sign up this Sunday. The cost is $220 and You will not be disapointed!
If you know someone who needs to go sign them up. You can let me know today!

Peace
Josh

2008-05-19T09:28:00.002-05:00

Thanks Brad Shull for this picture of my family. I have the most gorgeous wife and cute kid in the WORLD!!!
Yesterday I preached at Shady Grove for the first time on a Sunday morning. I had a good time, and got a lot of good feedback. Its funny how when I try to not be funny everyone says it was hilarious, but when I try to be funny, nobody laughs. I guess that says alot about myself. I can't stop preaching Colossians 4, it is the only thing the Lord will let me speak on in this season.
I also was able to be apart of a roundtable with some of the biggest churches youth pastors in the nation, this weekend. It was put on by Joel Stockstill and Judah Smith and I got to meet some really cool guys who are amazing youth pastors for these churches. It was an awesome time of vision casting with some of the future leaders of the church. In the first session 10 minutes into worship, Joel Stockstill started to prophecy over me. It was spot on, and I feel very refreshed, which is crazy because this has been one of the busiest seasons of my life and I have been sick. But, I have learned that if you in His presence daily, you don't get burnt out, but you feel refreshed. In Acts, Peter says, "That times of refreshing will come in His presence" So if you are tired, or feel burnt out, or just want to stop or quit - GET IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD! Every day, start your day in worship!
Anyway I am about to start a meeting.
Here is another picture of my beautiful wife and daughter

Peace
Josh

Jesus Culture Conference and a funny joke!

2008-05-12T18:33:00.000-05:00

The Jesus Culture Conference was AWESOME and if you did not get to attend, you can here all of the messages for free at www. jesusculture. org
It was an amazing weekend full of the release of Healing! You don't want to miss the effects that it is going to leave.

The Gathering is meeting this Tuesday and I will be sharing the vision for the future of College/Young Adult Ministry, I will also be sharing on the future of Lifewalk and the Gathering on Tuesday Nights - There are Big Changes Coming!!
And for sure don't miss 1829 this week as we hear testimonies from the conference and Nathan speaks on Revival!
Its going to be an awesome Summer
Peace
Josh

I thought this joke was funny

An Arab diplomat visiting the U.S. for the first time was being wined and dined by the State Department. The Grand Emir was unused to the salt in American foods (french fries, cheeses, salami, anchovies etc.) and was constantly sending his manservant Abdul to fetch him a glass of water. Time and again, Abdul would scamper off and return with a glass of water, but then came the time when he returned empty-handed. Abdul, you son of an ugly camel, where is my water? demanded the Grand Emir. A thousand pardons, O Illustrious One, stammered the wretched Abdul, white man sit on well.
HA!

Let God drive, its a better ride!

2008-05-07T09:59:00.004-05:00

I was reading Matthew 6:31-34 "Do not be anxious then saying, What shall we eat? or What shall we drink? or With what shall we clothe ourselves? For all these things the Gentiles eagerly seek for your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things, But first seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you, Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow for tomorrow will care for itself."
In a way this is letting go of the Wheel of our life and trying to get to the place of provision on your own. It is so much better to let as Carrie Underwood says, "Jesus take the Wheel" and as cheesy as that song is, it is Biblically correct. When you are behind the wheel of your life, it is impossible for God to add what He wants to add, and Give what He wants to give!
People without a relationship with the Father have to hang onto the wheel, spending the best of their energies, the best of their time looking out for their agenda. But Jesus nails that controlling approach to life with these simple words, "Your Heavenly Father knows that you need them." Quit trying to meet your own needs, it's His job. Then Jesus says that you'll be able to focus on God's agenda, to really get His work done.
It could be that the Lord is trying, right now, to pry your hands off that steering wheel of your life, or maybe some areas of your life that you just insist on controlling. He want fall asleep, look away, or crash into headcoming traffic. He will guide you to the exact place He created you to be and then Use you, and you will lack nothing, because HE CARES FOR YOU!
So let today be a day to get in the passenger seat of your life and let God take over!
Peace
Josh

1829 is going to be amazing tonight! Don't miss it as we are going to kick off Jesus Culture with the 2nd part of the series "Culture Shock" and an old friend of 1829, Levi Smith, will be leading worship. Come one Come all and bring a car load of your closest friends or just strangers off the streets. We will be registering for Jesus Culture and Camp and Zach will have a special announcement on Launch this summer.

Birthday blog

2008-04-29T11:49:00.003-05:00

Today I turn 32!
I had a blast last night with some friends, we went to Trulucks and ate all you can eat stone crab. That place has some good food, but dang it is expensive. It was the first time I got a phone call the next day from the manager asking how my dining experience was. High Class right there!
I also found out today that I share my birthday with
ITunes who turns 5
Jerry Seinfeld - turns 54

Michael Jackson
Daniel Day Lewis
Master P
Michelle Pheiffer
Andre Agassi
So happy birthday to everyone who shares my birthday!
32 is going to be a good year

Also Tonight we are having a cookout at Mike Lewis Park, we will have the Stars game going, and a volleyball tournament. It's going to be an amazing night of fellowship - AND YOUR INVITED!
Hope to see you there
Josh

ENCOURAGEMENT!

2008-04-24T09:56:00.002-05:00

This morning I have been studying on the importance of encouragement and I would like to ENCOURAGE you to ENCOURAGE someone today!
1 Thessalonians 5:11 - "Therefore encourage one another, build up one another, ... vs 14 And we URGE you encourage the fainthearted, help the weak"

In my devotional this morning the writer said, "When you ENCOURAGE someone, you literally put COURAGE IN them!"
EN-COURAGE is putting COURAGE-IN someone else.
You have the ability today to put COURAGE in someone who needs to be lifted up or built up and this is the very thing that God has gifted us to do to be ENCOURAGERS!!
When you ENCOURAGE someone you give them COURAGE to
Take a risk
Trust in God
Get through a tough day

A few way to put courage in someone today
1. Pray with them - not just for them (next time you say you will pray for someone, take time and pray with them right there)
2. Affirm them - This is specific praise for something they did, or something they are. Everyone needs affirmation, we all need to be told good job, or way to go, or I am proud of you. Most might be discouraged because they have never had that parent cheering them on, or they just have friends who put them down instead of building them up. THIS IS HUGE!
3. Share the Word with them - If God gives you a revelation in the word, sometime it is not just for you and it will be exactly what that person needs to hear to give them COURAGE!
4. Email, text or myspace - We have the ability today to ENCOURAGE through technology to anybody in the world at any time. There are missionaries, old friends, people who you havent seen in a while that the best way to ENCOURAGE them might be through technology and to send them an encouraging note through they the computer or your little cell phone.

So I ENCOURAGE you today to ENCOURAGE someone today by putting COURAGE in them through prayer, affirmation, the word, or and uplifting email! Lets do this thing!

And when you encourage others, it is amazing how God encourages you through the process, in fact I feel more Encouraged just from writing this blog.
Peace
Josh

Mac vs Pc

2008-04-19T00:48:00.004-05:00

I am sure you have seen the clever commercials by mac vs pc.
Let me just say Mac wins hands down. I am not a graphic designer, or a video editor, or a musician, or a internet geek, or any kind of computer genius. All I know is since i have had a mac I have never encountered any frustration like this..

So I am a huge encourager for mac!
And my birthday is coming up so if I could get anything which I know I will not get. I would like a new macbook pro laptop.
You never know what might happen when you let people know what you want!!

Speaking of birthdays we are entering birthday week.
My brother Brandon 4/22
Sarah Kuglin - 4/21
My wife - 4/27
Marvin - 4/27
me - 4/29
and Tom is turning 50 on 4?30

Everyone have a great weekend and go Mac!
Peace
Josh

2008-04-07T09:06:00.003-05:00

This Morning I have been thinking about how good God has been to me and yet how easy it is to dwell on the things I don't have or whats wrong in my life. As I began to dwell on the goodness of God, I began to see how blessed I am, and how much I really do have. I am so blessed, I have more than 96% of the world.
I have wonderful family (wife, daughter, mom and dad, brothers and sisters, uncles, aunts, cousins and now nephews)
I have a wonderful job (working in the ministry overseeing a generation at a church I absolutely love!)
I have wonderful friends (too many too keep up with, I have really good friends and if I named them here I would for sure leave some people out, but I am blessed with all kinds of awesome friendships)
I have a wonderful house, car, computer, clothes, and other cool stuff
I usually eat more than three meals a day and eat pretty good food!
I live in a great nation that even though many people curse is still one of the most Godly nations in the world!
I have a body that works where I can play the sports I love (Hockey, soccer, golf, baseball, running, working out, swimming)
I have good vision and my ears work pretty good most of the time!
And the most important thing I have an amazing relationship with a living God who loves me every second of the day!
Too much to be grateful for, more than most people in the world could ever imagine - but yet I still have to battle those thoughts of discouragement, negativity, and what I don't have!
When I have a thought that is contrary to the goodness of God I need to take it captive and not allow it to linger and turn into anger which will spring up a root of bitterness. Read Ephesians 4! And Colossians 3!
So what do you have to be grateful for - I gurantee you can find something! And no matter how bad it might seem right now, trust me it could always be worse, and its going to get better!
Peace
Josh

Dont believe everything you read on the internet!

2008-03-31T23:12:00.005-05:00

I saw this picture and thought about how sad it is, on how less we talk in person, and how much more we communicate through this internet.
The truth is half of what you read on the internet is probably not true, so don''t believe everything you read on the internet. I can promise that most of these emails that are swirling about presidential candidates, or about the latest way to be blessed, or about how to make money without working are just scams and lies. And definitely don't spend too much time on the internet. It will rob you of quality time having real discussion with real people. It's called quality time.
Anyway tomorrow night we are having a small group at our house to talk about Ephesians 4. So if you want to come and talk we will be meeting at 7:00.
Peace
Josh

A 7 day challenge

2008-03-25T23:10:00.003-05:00

Tonight Jon Dunn shared out of Ephesians chapter 4 in the Gathering and it was an amazing message.
I issued a challenge to those in attendance to put into action the words of Paul in Ephesians 4 for the next 7 days.
THE CHALLENGE - For Seven days do not let any words out of your mouth that are not encouraging or edifying to who you are talking about. Do not let any unwholesome words come out of your mouth. Only speak when you have something encouraging or good to say.
So are you up for the challenge? I promise you that it will change your life. Now I am not saying to lie, be real and find something to say that will encourage, edify, and build up your family, friends, coworkers, and anyone else you might talk to.
Its only 7 days.
This challenge is harder than you might think!

I hope to post a blog about Mexico and show some pics soon.
Here is the whole team with the church in Mexico

Peace
Josh

Blogging Again

2008-03-25T13:55:00.004-05:00

It's been awhile since I blogged, but I am back. I am going to try and blog on this site from now on and hopefully people will come here and read what all is going on in my world.
I don't have much time as I am about to go into a meeting here at church. But we are having a cookout tonight at the Church for the Gathering. We will start cooking at 7:00 and we will still be having the word with Jon Dunn teaching out of Ephesians chapter 4. It is going to be an awesome time and I hope you can come get filled with free food and the word of God!

One thing I am going to try and do is post more pictures on my blog and maybe even videos if I can figure out how it works.
Here are few pics from Easter

And here is a picture I saw at Starbucks that inspired me

Ok I am late
peace
Josh

Calling all History Makers

2007-04-23T21:31:00.000-05:00

Calling all History Makers
Tuesday night at the Gathering I will be starting a new series calling all History Makers. This is
A Call to Make History
A Call to Change the World
A Call to the Impossible

This Call is for ordinary people, no special talents or training is required - only those who are willing to do something with their lives, to take risks, to sacrifice there time and energy, and to radical obedience.

Will you answer the call?
Come to the Gathering for more on how we can change the world, and I am serious - there is a practical way for us to change the world and make history with our lives. And I am talking about PRACTICAL ways to change the course of history, it doesnt matter who you are you can be a part.
Here is just one way I will be sharing.
IF everyone you know, would come to know, what you know then you will change the world.
Come to the Gathering tomorrow night for more, and some amazing worship with Levi Smith, the coffes shop opens at 6:30, it is going to be an awesome night
I am pumped
Josh

I thought this might help someone

2007-04-14T10:56:00.001-05:00

Just had a good devotional today thought I would share it with anyone who is interested.

Most people look at the sunset and think of how the sun is going down. The truth is we are moving as a planet around the sun. This has such an amazing spiritual revelation, and I believe God created the universe to emphazie that it is not the "son" that revolves around us, but us that revolves around the "Son"

In real terms, your "god" isn't what you say you believe in, it's whatever you revolve your life around, what you think about most of the time, what you spend your time and money on, whatever is your bottom line in your life-choices. Obviously, we are to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5). He is the sun in the universe of every life. Everyone and everything else is just a planet that is supposed to revolve around Him, and our beliefs agree with that. It's our everyday behavior that's the problem. It could be that at this moment in your life, you're actually revolving around one of the planets in your life, and you're treating Jesus like He should revolve around it, too.

Maybe the real "sun" in your personal universe is your children. They're supposed to be very important to you, but not the center of your life. Maybe your marriage or your strong desire to be married is what you've put at the center. Your business or your career could become an idol, a relationship, your stuff, your plans, even your ministry can become an idol; you've started serving the work instead of serving the Lord.

If the sun were ever to leave its place at the center of our solar system, it would mess up everything else. When you put what's supposed to be a "planet" in your life at the center, nothing works right. And it could be that Jesus is not really the sun around which everything else in your life is revolving right now and the result is going to be chaos, confusion, and collapse.

That's why this wakeup call from God - to put the sun - actually, the Son of God - back at the center of everything you're about.
The first commandment in Exodus 20:3 says, "You shall have no other gods before Me."
So what does your life revolve around, yourself, your family, your work, your sport, your friends. None of these things are evil, but they are not what is supposed to be the center - that is only reserved for the "SON" Jesus Christ.
And then yourself, your family, your friends, your word, your ministry, your life will be in order and you can be who God has called you to be in these important places and people God has put in your life.
Hope this helps someone.
Josh

I thought this might help someone

2007-04-14T10:56:00.000-05:00

If anyone would like to bless me

2007-04-13T10:09:00.000-05:00

If anyone is wondering what to get me for my birthday which is april 29th I will begin posting some of my desires, hoping that one day they turn into dreams come true.

De'Longhi Rialto One-Touch Super Automatic Espresso Machine
On sale now at Starbucks.

Sale price: $1499.90 (Regular price: $1800)
Just throwing that out there.

For the rest of you who are broke and do not have any money here is a picture to make you happy!

And last the latest family photo

Have a wonderful weekend
Josh

Show that smile!

2007-04-10T06:17:00.000-05:00

So I have been up since 4:30 and I am filled with caffeine and visioin! I am so pumped about tonight and about the Gathering. I believe God has given us a strategy that is so awesome to reach the college/young adults/ young professionals in our city. I will be sharing this strategy tonight at the Gathering. If you are over 18 you need to come and hear what God is doing and is going to do.
Anyway, life as a dad is getting sweeter every day. This morning me and emily had a smile session for about 15 minutes, she could not stop smiling - there is not a better way to start your day than to just watch your daughter smiling at you, and you cant help but just smile back at her. Something about a genuine smile is contagious. And just like I am smiling with a heart about to explod with love at my daughter, the Father in heaven is smiling on every on of us every morning. He is so in love with us and He just smiles on us.
You might come across someone who needs a smile, I have found that when I smile at people that I come across throughout the day (waiters, baristas, strangers) it has power, it breaks down barriers and walls, it opens doors for me to share the love of Christ. Just a simple smile can brighten someone's day that you might never see again. And it is a smile that comes from the deepest well of knowing that God loves me. Nothing on this earth can rob me of that smile!
So go and smile today!
Josh

300 - not just a movie

2007-03-26T07:50:00.000-05:00

The number one movie in America is a number "300" Now I haven't seen the movie yet, but its another movie based on the ancient Battle of Thermopylae, King Leonidas and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, their valor and sacrifice inspire all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy. I have seen the trailor and the leader of this amazing undertaking of 300 vs thousands is this King Leonidas who just looks like he was born to kick butt. He is this tough, strong, bad to the bone guy.
There is another battle where 300 warriors take on an entire city. It is actually in the book of Judges and, with only 300 men, God defeated 135,000 Midianite soldiers in battle, and he uses a guy to choose and lead this amazing undertaking is Gideon! If they made a movie about this true story they would have to find a different actor than the bad to the bone guy who looks like he can bench press 1000 pounds. They would probably have to get a teenager who looks like an average, ordinary dude.
Gideon wasn't who you would think God would choose to lead an army of 300 against an entire Midianite army of over 100,000. In Judges 6 we see Gideon as this young man who is just beating out wheat in a wine press under an oak tree, and God says, "the Lord is with you O valiant warrior." Gideon responds with discouragement, in "how if the Lord is with me, why has all this happened to us, Where are your miracles" The Lord looked at him and said, "Go in this your strength and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian. Gideon responds with a "who me" he says, "Oh Lord, how shall I deliver Israel? Behold my family is the least in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my fathers house." In other words, I am not qualified, and not ready, I am too young, I am not from a house of prominence, I am poor. Gideon lists all the reasons on why He can't be a valiant warrior.
Today, you might feel too young, or too weak, or too poor, or least qualified to be used by God, to be a warrior, to do something that seems impossible. But the Lord chooses you and says to you, "I am with you o Valiant Warrior"
I know that 12 years ago I was just a young guy with nothing going for me in the natural, but God chose me and when you have Him going for you it doesnt matter what your last name is, hom much you have in bank account, how strong you are, how popular you are, how educated you are, and how old you are.
God chose Moses who couldnt speak, He chose David and Gideon who were too young, He chose Disciples who were unedcuated, He chose Paul who was too evil. He can choose you despite your disqualifications. And he does choose you, Gideon responded and led 300 men to overtake the giant army of the Midianites. Will you respond today, I know I am going to!
Go and be a deliverer, be the voice, and hands and feet of the Living God to someone who doesnt know Him today. Be an encouragement to someone who is weak today, bue a light to someone who is dark, be a warrior over the enemy today. And watch God do what seems impossible in your life!
Peace
Josh

Joy is awesome and my daughter is sick

2007-03-21T22:49:00.000-05:00

Thought I would blog about how freakin awesome 1829 was tonight. We had such a move of God in worship at the end of service. There was a release of Joy and Gladness of Heart. I started the series on "The Church has left the building" Check out the 1829 myspace for the video.
But I am so glad to be alive and saved, and still doing 1829. We are about to see the promises of prophetic words given over the youth and college of this city coming into revival. I am so pumped.
If you are not doing anything on Wed. Night or every other Tuesday join us as we are seeing God do some amazing things!
In other news my daughter is sick for the first time, so pray for her. She woke me and Marian up this morning to lots of new smiles though, and that is always so special. She has so won my heart.
We are going to meet with the Oaks Fellowship College Pastor tomorrow and going to go to there college service tomorrow night. Funny thing is there college ministry is also called the Gathering, which I had no idea. I guess that is a cool name. If you have any cool names for a College and Young Adult ministy, leave a comment and I will give you full credit if we use it.
Thanks
Josh

Incredible Testimony!

2007-03-08T06:30:00.001-06:00

I got up this morning at 5:00 this morning to feed Emily, Marian needed a break, and when I finished I figured there was no use in going back to sleep, so if you see me today around 4:00 I might be pretty tired.
Last night was awesome! There was such an electricity in the room, I could literally feel the manifest presence of the wind of God blowing through that place. Worship was so amazing. God was moving so strong. We got into small groups for the preaching last night, and it was amazing. I led a young man in salvation, and there were so many more that got saved last night. There was also healings taking place. This is such a cool testimony - there was a young man who wears glasses that was prayed over and after they prayed for him, he took his glasses off and his vision was totally repaired, he said he could read someone shirt, and before without his glasses he could not see anything, let alone read something. Praise God! There are so many more testimonies of salvation and healing and deliverance from just praying for each other. There was not just one guy preaching a message, it was just simply people coming out of worshipping God and praying for one another. And the cool thing is we can do this every day, We come to Him first and then Go to who He sends us too.
cant wait till next week where we are going to be baptizing those who were saved along with some others.
Have a great day
Josh

Amber Rose Conference - Friday Evening update

2007-03-02T22:30:00.000-06:00

Wow, this teaching is amazing. I guarantee if you apply this to your life and dwell on what God has done, it will change everything! Awesome stuff.

Kingdom Economy by Bill Johnson

- Sometimes we pray and keep on praying so we can blame the outcome on God
- Joshua 24:31 – “Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua who had known the works of the Lord which He had done for Israel”
- Something happens in a body that remembers memories of supernatural moves of God.
- Remembering what God has done is one of the greatest tools and greatest failures of the church.
- A secret to staying encouraged all the time is to only feed ourselves on what God has done, we do not dwell on what He has not done.
- Our culture is so focused on what hasn’t happened – it is a critical spirit.
- It is good to celebrate what God has done, not complain about what He has not done.
- People who do not recognize what God has done cannot be brought into a place of thankfulness.
- Thankfulness for a small measure is what positions us to handle a large measure.
- It is impossible to pray and have nothing happen.
- When I mediate on what hasn’t been done it creates an awareness for where God is not moving and I dwell there and miss where He is moving.
- Most people’s offense towards people is a misdirected offense towards God.
- In the private place is where we bring what we want done, but in the public place we only talk about what He has done – which is the power of testimony.
- The more we talk about what He has done, the more it happens.
- What we talk about with our friends or family determine what kind of presence we bring into the room.
- It is ok to minister to anyone, but only receive from a few. Those who are walking in what God is doing or done.
- When you remember you take the seed of what God has done into a present conflict.
- It’s the determination to remember the right things. If you have lost a loved one remember the life not the death.
- Don’t ask God Why, ask What’s Next?
- Choose what to remember and you will position yourself for the supernatural.

How to position yourself for the miraculous
1. Choose what your going to dwell on.
2. Choose who you are going to hang out with.
- don’t spend time with complainers or negative people
3. Live with an awareness that you are owed Divine Justice.

Amber Rose - Friday Morning update

2007-03-02T22:27:00.000-06:00

Here is Bill Johsnon teaching from Friday Morning. I love his teaching it is biblical, real, and genuine. There is no hype and I so appreciate that with a man that is teaching on healing. I hope this helps.

The Mind of Christ by Bill Johnson

Romans 4:19-21

- Chapter 4 of Romans is the key for what’s about to happen.
- We undermind Faith in our heart by what we think about or whats on our mind.
- To those filled with unbelief your faith will always look like undenial
- Intercession came before God sent the Messiah.
- We say its up to God, and God says it’s up to you
- Did he really do all that He went through for us just to go to church.
- He is not looking for uniquely gifted individuals, or a church but for a generation who is looking to carry out His command
- Jesus is looking for a bride whose body is in equal proportion with her head.

4 thoughts that changes how you view life.

1. God is Good
- we are the beginning of a new revolution of theological upheaval that has to do with the goodness of God
- Job is the question – Jesus is the answer. I am not a disciple of Job, but of Jesus.
- Jesus is the perfect manifestation of the Father God.
- Hebrews 1:3
- It is theological immoral to allow an old testament statement replace what we presented from the Father through His son Jesus.
- If Jesus has all authority that means that someone has no authority
- Jesus should be the model of how we do life.
- Sometimes we create adverse reality through adverse belief systems - and then blame God for it.
- In him there is nothing bad and He is in a good mood.
- Don’t preach a message that Jesus didn’t demonstrate.

2. Nothing is impossible with God
- living with an attitude that knows no possibility changes the way you live life.
- All of creation is stuck in the realm of limited possibility except for those who believe.
- Knowing the heart of God is what positions us for Faith. Faith is believing in Him, not believing for something.

3. We do not fight to obtain victory, we fight through Christ victory
- Do not let anything get bigger in my mind than the awareness of God’s presence
- If I go into pray and came out the same, I did not pray, I complained.

4. I am significant
- if I become self critical I am releasing the critical spirit on you, because Jesus said I am to love you as I love myself.
- You being on revival is not dependent on your church being in Revival
- Great numbers without unity is not more powerful than one person united with God.
- I have been selected, chosen by name to be a light in this world, that is significance.
- When you are significant – everyone becomes significant and valuable. Even the guy under the bridge.
- Significance is not based on who knows your name on earth. I want my name known in Heaven and in Hell.

- When these four things are active then we are positioned to model and demonstrate what Revival looks like.
- Romans 12:2 – Do not be comformed to this world, be transformed by the renewing of your mind. That you may prove the will of God.
- A renewed mind proves Heaven on Earth.

The Busy Life

2007-03-01T11:47:00.003-06:00

The Busy Life
I have never been more busy in my life. And I love it! Between being a Husband, Father, Friend, Elder, Youth and College Pastor, Hockey Player, Soccer Player, Lover of God, and a guy who loves to be in the House of Prayer and not to mention making the time to watch some Mavs every once in while. There are some things that have been lacking though. Things like the computer and tv. I havent even been on myspace since last week. Anyway with all these titles, and jobs, and activities, my first love is still The Lord Jesus Christ. And no matter how busy I am or incredibly hectic my day can be with meetings. I have to start my day alone with God. I cannot function without that being the first thing of the day. "Seek me First, and All these things shall be added"
I believe in the principle of the First. What is the first thing you do in the day? I believe that if The Lord is your First Love then ther first thing will be seeking him. It might mean you have to wake up a little earlier. But it will become an addiction, before you go to work, before you read the paper, before you take the dog out, before you wake the baby, before you go to the House of Prayer, before you work out, before you turn the tv on, before you even take a shower, meet with him FIRST! And everything else in the day will be that which flows out of First Love.
There are three things that no matter what I never want to be too busy for:
1. Time with God
2. Time with my Family
3. Time with close Friends.
I believe in the importance of these three things.
Peace
Josh

The Busy Life

2007-03-01T11:47:00.001-06:00

Amazing Stuff

2007-02-23T10:23:00.001-06:00

Ok so I was reading this morning from Mark Driscoll (Pastor of Mars Hill in Seattle) This guy has such an amazing revelation on the difference between Religion and the Gospel. THe Gospel is hindered in our lives by Religion and Idolotry. And if these are the 2 first commandments. Here are some amazing quotes I wrote down.

- The Bible has nothing kind to say about religion. Religion doesn't understand the Gospel.

- Religion says, "If you obey, God will love you." The Gospel says, "Because God loves you, you can obey."

- Religion is about what I do. The Gospel is about what Jesus has done. "It is finished."

- Religion is about what we get from God. The Gospel is about getting God.

- Religion sees hardship has punishment. The Gospel recognizes there can be good fruit out of hardship and suffering. It's called sanctification. "Jesus was made perfect through his suffering."

- Religion is about me. The Gospel is about Jesus.

- Religion leads to a life of continual uncertainty. The Gospel provides assurance. Certainty. We can approach the thrown of grace.

- Religion ends up in two places which are both wicked. It ends in pride or despair. The Gospel ends in confidence. It's humble.

- Jesus went to the cross and died. And with it died idolatry and religion.

- Is Jesus Christ your only God? Is your life lived to worship him alone?

Just some amazing stuff in my opinion
Don't just be religious and call yourself a Christin, be follower of Christ and He will call you a Disciple. (That was my own quote)
Peace
Josh

Vision Sunday and 1829 recap

2007-02-22T10:38:00.001-06:00

I am just feeling pressed this morning as I drink my coffee and have my quiet time that God is wanting to release a new spirit of invitation on our church. I know that there are hundrends of people that we know who are not in church, and not serving God. We need to love them as they are, and bring them to a place where God can change them into who there supposed to be.
I know that not everybody reads this, but if everyone who does read this would invite one person to church this Sunday, just one, it would start something. This would be a perfect weekend to bring someone as it is Vision Sunday. And people naturally respond to vision, not information. Where there is no vision, people will perish. I know that there is vision at Shady Grove that I believe in, and I believe is from God, not from a bunch of dudes sitting around a table. I believe in where we are going, and I believe that there God has many people in our city and metroplex that He wants to come and be a part of this vision.
So be there Sunday for Vision Sunday, and bring a friend, or neibhor, or someone in your family who does not go to church.

1829 was a lot of fun last night. I wasn't able to preach my entire message. So it is now a 2 part series on Relationships. Last night was about the wrong way to date, based on a case study of Amnon and Tamar. Next week will be on the Right way, or the better way to date- (Sorry, I know I should use the word courtship - but isn't courtship just the word for the right way to date) based on the case study of Boaz and Ruth. It is going to be awesome, it is one of my favorite books, and stories in the entire Bible. I cannot wait to preach it!

Finally, it is true this weekend I am getting ordained as an elder. And I will post a blog on my thoughts on this before Sunday. I will say this - I am extremely honored and grateful for this oppurtunity and I am aware of the responsibility that comes with being an elder. More to come later.
Peace
Josh

Vision Sunday and 1829 recap

2007-02-22T10:38:00.000-06:00

I am sick but I will overcome

2007-02-20T09:26:00.001-06:00

Me and marian have come under the weather with a stomach virus. It literally feels like something crawled into my stomach and died. We are just praying that Emily doesnt get whatever bug we got. I hate being sick, I literally hate it, I cannot just sit around, especially after a vacation week, so I am going in to work.
I just want to give some verses that I always stand on when the enemy tries to make me feel like a victim. IF I am sick, if I am worried, If I am wounded, If I am struggling, If I am tempted, If I am in the valley, If I am discouraged, It might suprise you, but yes I do sometimes face these emotions, or circumstances. But I always take the mentality that no matter what happens I am not a victim, but I am a overcomer.
Here are the verses that I stand on all in Romans 8:
verse 28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and to those who are called according to His purpose.
Verse 31 - "IF God is for us who is against us"
Verse 35 - "nothing can seperate us from the love of Christ"
Verse 37 - "But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.

This is the overcomer attitude that Paul had, that I have, and that you can have. And the Apostle Paul, who had been through more hurt and abuse than most of us could imagine: whippings, prison, injustice, slander, hit squads determined to kill him, shipwreck, an incurable and painful physical condition and He never had a victim mentality. Don't be a victim, even though you might have a good reason to be a victim, God has not called you to be a victim, that is not His will.

Paul, chose to live as an overcomer instead of a victim, and he shows us the secret of rising above our hurt and our limitations.
First, choose to be defined by your love relationship with Jesus Christ, which is disease-proof, terror-proof, disaster-proof and death-proof.
Secondly, focus on what you can do, not what you can't do.
Thirdly, dedicate yourself to use what you have and what you've been through to help other hurting people.

If your sick, hurting, discouraged, in the valley, confused, tempted, worried, or victimized - turn it around and become an overcomer through these word of Paul in Romans. Believe in them, apply them and then watch how God will use you to help others.
Peace
Josh

thoughts on dating - you might not like this blog!

2007-02-15T10:18:00.001-06:00

Last night was the longest night since we have had Emily. She was hungry the entire night and did not ever really go to sleep. Finally, she is asleep and Marian is asleep. I guess this is going to be a sleep day. I am not sure what is going to happen when I go back to work next week. If anyone wants to volunteer to stay the night and sleep in Emily's room, let me know.
I have been preparing for a new series on dating and relationships in 1829. I went to Krogers last night and it was a madhouse with guys buying flowers last minute for there valentines. I don't want to sound like a hater, but it is sad how many people try and fill the place in there heart for first love with a fleeting romance, or dating relationship, that they know is not going to end in marriage.
Now I know I have very strong opinions on this and believe it or not I am a huge fan of 2 people meeting each other in the will of God and in the timing of God committing there love and lives together for a lifetime. There is nothing that is more awesome, and I want it to happen to everyone I know. But so many people throw that away for a substitute.
So here is my definition of a dating relationship that doesnt work, because it is out of context of what God designed for marriage.
"when you have an exclusive relationship based on romatic feelings that produce unrighteous expectations that you cannot fullfill in the paramater of a Godly relationship." And the two results are the "Big Let Down" or the "Big Mistake" and sadly many people fall into the Big Mistake category and it robs them of the love of God and a Godly marriage.
Ok I don't want to preach the whole series. But if you disagree with me, I encourage you to come and hear the whole series. I will start teaching this wed in 1829 and probably go 3 -4 weeks. I hope to break through and change whats normal in this genearation. Where it is normal to wait for the will of God and the timing of God where you can fullfill the expecations of romance through the Godly context of marriage and let me just say - IT IS AWESOME!
later
Josh

A father's heart on a 2nd day of vacation!

2007-02-13T13:59:00.001-06:00

This is day 2 of me staying home and helping out with taking care of Emily. I am so excited every time I hold her and have been doing my quiet time out loud while I hold her, it was hilarious reading numbers 1 and 2 outloud. Marian probably thought I was the wierdest guy ever. But I find there are two things that Emily likes and always stops crying for - Sports and the Bible! She has got to be the coolest newborn ever. You don't get much cooler than sports and the Bible.
The weird and cool thing is that through having a daughter, I have a new Fathers heart for girls. I have five sisters and about 200 spiritual sisters, but having a daughter is so much different. Being a father brings so much more compassion for their destiny than just being a big brother. And now its like I have a fathers heart not just for my daughter but for all of the young girls in 1829 and my sisters. I am so stirred for there destiny and purity - which go hand in hand.
I know this is going to change my life as a friend, brother, pastor, and most importantly now as a Father.
Now I am going to go and be a good husband. And there is only one girl for me to feel that way about and that is the one and only Marian. She is amazing and I am blessed and love her dearly. I couldn't imagine going through what she and all moms have to go through in these first 3 weeks. If you think about her, say a little prayer for her.
Peace
Josh

Sky Ranch in a nutshell

2007-02-12T10:21:00.001-06:00

Sky Ranch was an amazing weekend.
The first night was a good time of just hearing the word of the Lord through the preaching. And then we got in a huge circle and made a commitment to bear each others burdens and lay our lives down for each other.
Read Galatians 6: 1-5, Romans 15:1-7, Phillipians 2:1-5

Then we all stayed up too late, and I was up all night listening to a certain someone snore. (wont mention any names)

Saturday was awesome though, the meeting that morning was probably my favorite time at Sky Ranch this year. Worship was all about the River, and then there was a release of prophetic ministry that was powerful. There was a call to purity and then a real call to all the girls to be daughters of the Lord.
I personally got a major revelation of the Jordan River. I as going to be studying the spiritual significance of this river and how it represents freedom, cleansing and destiny.
More on all of that later.

We had a great afternoon of playing basketball

Saturday night was a annointed time of ministry - especially to the 7th, 8th and 9th graders. There was like a commisssioning, a passing of the torch to the young to carry the flaming torches of revival for this generation. Jon Dunn preached an awesome message out of Romans 1. And there was a powerful time of deliverance at the end.

We then had our tradition of hanging out late, singing karaoke, and being crazy. I dont know what it is about Sky Ranch, but it is always so much fun.

Now the best part of the weekend was getting home and seeing Marian and Emily. I just spent the entire afternoon and evening holding Emily. I watched half a Stars game, and an entire Mavs Game with her in my arms. And she didnt cry at all. I think she like watching sports with her good old Dad!
This morning was different, I could not get her to stop crying and then I realized she had a diaper full of poop. I am going to get this down. I am spending the entire week just being at home and helping Marian. It should be alot of fun, and I will keep you updated with all of the fun discoveries of having a newborn.

Josh

I already miss Emily

2007-02-09T09:35:00.000-06:00

I am just getting ready for Sky Ranch, which is going to be an incredible weekend, and then I looked over and saw my daughter staring at me, as though she knew I was leaving. I am going to miss her so much. I mean it is only 2 days, but I already miss her.
What is happening to me, whats next am I going to start listening to butterfly kisses and watching soap operas. I feel more emotional than ever. And I am not emotional, I take pride in the fact that I am a man's man, I dont cry, dont watch chick flicks, dont like country (Thank God) Dont like American Idol, and hear I am getting emotional about leaving for 2 days. I don't know how I feel about all of this. I mean I am going to miss Marian like crazy, I always do when I am away from her, but its different with Emily, she is so new, and dependent, and I have never been away from her for more than a work day.
I can feel my life changing, I am already starting to think about her future husband and giving her away on her wedding day. I am thinking about her being a 13 year old young pure woman, who tells guys to take a hike, because she is waiting for God's best! I can see her preaching at age 15 to thousands. I can see her already growing up - AND SHE IS NOT EVEN 2 WEEKS OLD YET!
Anyway, Sky Ranch is going to be awesome but pray that I don't go crazy missing Emily and Marian.
Peace
Josh

letting out whats in me

2007-02-08T11:59:00.000-06:00

We had a great night in 1829 last night. God is really moving and raising up a generation that is basing there life on the word, and not the world. I am convinced that if you base your life on what the world is saying, that there will come a day where you will not be able to follow Jesus.
But if you base your life on what the Bible says - the Jesus is the way the truth and the life, that there is no way to the Father except through Him - and you put Him first in your life, and you follow him, being fully devoted, knowing His undying love He has for you, and walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh - prepare yourself for persecution. It is where we are heading as a nation.
Now I do not want to get to off on this too much, but I am saddened by the lack of the word of God in believers life. That is why so many are falling away or fading, because they have no life in the word.
I believe we need to put a new value on the Bible and believe what it says. If we do not do this we will not last! We will base our life on our emotions and be like a wave tossed to and fro.
Start reading the word today, PLEASE, I am serious you need it, even if you do not desire this source of life, the author desires you. HE wrote it for you, He loves you, and want to give you the promises in this word. He wants you to understand that you are wonderfully and beautifully made.
I am so fired up about this because I know there are so many people who are struggling with sin, and addiction, and so many other things - and the main reason is that they do not read the word!
Anyway back to last night - it was awesome and we had a room full of young people make the commitment to put Christ First - BECAUSE HE IS ALL WE NEED! More than a spouse, more than a child, more than a date, more than money, more than tv, more than another president, more than good grades, more than our sin, more than friends, more than all things, HE is the ONE THING and He is ALL WE NEED!
I am pumped about this. IT is life changing, your lifestyle is a product of your first love. And we are all born with a first love being ourslves. Sadly many people never change! I can prove this point, who is the 1st person you look for when you look at pictures, Who is the first page you go to on MySpace, IT is YOU! And your lifestyle is all about You. Put Christ first and see how it changes your entire life!
Sorry - I just am really full of the word, and this is just another way for me to get it out.
Sky Ranch is going to awesome
Emily is doing awesome
Marian is progressing really well
We are blesssed because Christ is first.
I could keep going, but I know most of you have probably stopped reading this by now.
Josh

Three things that I am excited about

2007-02-06T21:14:00.000-06:00

I have the most amazing little girl!
Ok now that I have that out of the way, I am really excited about the next week. Here is why:

1. 1829 this Wedesday is going to rock. I am so pumped to preach, I am starting a new series called "All I Need" There also might be a suprise appearance by little emily. You better be there, or you might miss her first appearance. Stephen Parra, the little mexican who can lead some worship, will be there as well - leading worship. Zach is back and so I know he will have some new videos. And it is the last time to sign up for Sky Ranch - which leads to the 2nd thing I am excited about.

2. SKY RANCH - people, sky ranch is this weekend and it is going to be an awesome, crazy, powerful weekend. I dont want anyone to miss this. Jon Dunn is speaking both nights, and we have all kinds of fun and sky ranch goodness planned. You can sign up and pay this Wed. This is the last time to do it though.

3. When we get back from Sky Ranch I get to spend a week of vacation hanging out with the two coolest girls in town, sorry all of you other girls. I am going to take the week after Sky Ranch and just be a stay at home Dad, and a loving Husband to Marian and Emily. Should be lots of fun family time. I am really excited, I can't imagain how much I am going to miss them for the weekend. I tried to get them to go, but it didn't work. You will see them soon though.

Well that is the three things that I am super excited about. Hope to see you all Wed. Night.
Josh

Were home and healthy

2007-02-04T18:07:00.000-06:00

Just a short praise report blog, that we are all home as a family (Me, Marian and Emily) and everyone is healthy. Marian is healing well, and we have Marians mother staying with us and sleeping with the baby in the nursery.
Emily is great, she gets better every day. She had her first poop. Which was very exciting and was about 3:00 this morning. I missed it though because I was fast asleep, but Marian said it was so funny because her and her mom, were freaking out and Emily just kept letting it go. She hasn't pooped yet, so this is exciting. For some reason I love the word poop, it is just a cool word, I like to use it when I preach. It is so much better than stool, which is what the hospital uses. I mean who says stool when talking about the bathroom. I am sorry this if bathroom talk makes you uncomfortable.

Oh yeah church was awesome this morning and I want to encourage everyone to listen to Gary Benjamin's message this morning called "A heart that is revived". Everyone can get something out of it. It was one of the best messages I have ever heard and I am not just saying that. Check it out www.shadygrove.org and click on messages.
I am going to watch the Super Bowl now with my wife and daughter, kind of different than usual, but I just dont want to leave them.
Peace
Josh

It's 4:00 in the morning and I am wide awake!

2007-01-29T04:16:00.000-06:00

It's 4:00 in the morning and I have never been more awake! I am sitting here with Marian timing contractions and it is exciting. They are now about 5 minutes apart, and this could be the day. WOW!
I was thinking in church yesterday about how healthy expectancy is. Expectancy breeds excitement, which breeds enthusiasm which spreads like wildfire. And if you are not expecting anything, a lot of times you will not recieve anything. What did you expect, or what do you expect in your life. If you are single do you expect one day to marry God's Best! If you are in ministry, do you expect to grow and reach more people! Do you expect to have a great job one day. Do you expect to be successfull, even rich one day. Do you expect to see your lost friends saved one day, What are you expecting! If you have no expectation, you have no hope. And you will not believe, but if you expect, you will become excited, and then enthusiastic about what has been birthed in your heart. Because one day there will be a birth, a marriage, a paycheck, a salvation, a healing, a promotion.
The main reason people do not expect big things, is because they do not want to be disapointed. This is translated into fear, and worry which produces anxiety and is NOT GOD! So get rid of that fear and start getting excited about this new expectancy.
I will keep you updated, I could be going to the hospital soon, which has HiFI wireless internet access in the rooms. So I will let the world know as soon as Emily is here.
Josh

last nights story of going to the Hospital with Marian

2007-01-25T06:55:00.000-06:00

We had a little scare last night, but God is good and everything is fine. Thanks to evryone who was praying. Anyway, here is what happened - We went to the doctor to do a regular checkup. When they took Marian's blood pressure it was 135/80 which is a little high. They had her wait for 15 minutes and then took it again and it was 144/100 - So it was way high. The doctor said Marian needed to be admitted to the hospital to be watched, and that if it didn't go down, they were going to induce the baby.
So we went and were sitting in the hospital room, thinking this might be the night that little baby Emily would be born. I have to admit I got a little excited. But I knew that Marian's blood pressure was not going to be the reason to induce the baby.
So around 4:30 her blood pressure suddenly shot down dramatically, to 116/60 - which is like what an olympic athlete would be. And I thought that makes sense pre-service prayer just started at 1829. So Praise God, it went back up to 130/80 - but that wasn't high enough to induce. We could of gone ahead and induced, but didn't have a peace.
So now we are back in the waiting mode, I would love for today to be the day.
The cool part is I was able to make 1829 and it was awesome!
What a night, God was so present, and many people were touched by His spirit last night.
We had a good time exposing the lie of the enemy that we are not animals, but special created living beings with the breath of life, created after God's likeness of holiness and righteousness, and for a specific purpose on this earth and an eternal destiny.
We live in a world where many people just act like dogs - and there missing the love, purity, and purpose of what they were created for.
Anyway I will keep you updated on Marian, thanks again to everyone who prayed.
Josh

Love vs Lust! and an update on Marian

2007-01-24T07:32:00.000-06:00

This morning has been a little harder than usual, probably because Marian was up all night last night. I almost took her to the hospital at 3:00 this morning. I have a feeling that this might be the day. We go to the doctor at 2:00 today so we will keep you updated.
I am going to stay home with her this morning and take care of her, she is very sick, and having contractions, so as much as I want to be at the house of prayer this morning I am going to be a good husband.
But, unless we are having a baby, I will be there tonight at 1829. We have only had one 1829 in the last 5 weeks. I am ready to get some consistency going. Tonight is going to be awesome as Levi leads us in worship, and if I am there I will be preaching a message that I am so excited about. It is the 2nd part of the series "A New Life of Purity" and the message tonight is "You are not an Animal!" It is going to be a fun, but challenging message. Make sure all of you who come bring a friend.
And if I am in the hospital then you will be blessed with Nathan Watkins sharing the message.
It is kind of hitting me that I am going to be holding my child in a few days. I am so excited because I am ready to give my life, sacrifice my time and love this baby like crazy.
I might as well share my morning study and revelation to make this even longer.
I am reading this morning in 2 Samuel, the story of David and Bathsheba, which to me represents where a lot of people are when it comes to love. Really it is not love but lust. This is what Hollywood Romance breeds, just follow your attraction and feelings no matter what the circumstance. David was not in love with Bathsheeba, He was in lust for her. The problem is lust that is disguised as love always turns into a virus. It starts off with a nice feeling or a time of passion, but then unravels and ends up destroying a lot more people than the two. David goes on a downward spiral of killing her husband and seeing his family unravel. LOVE ALWAYS SEEKS TO GIVE, LUST ALWAYS SEEKS TO TAKE AWAY, LOVE IS SACRIFICE AND SELFLESS, LUST IS SELFISH!
I think everyone who is in relationship should ask themselves am I in love or in lust. If you are with someone because of the way it makes you feel, and what you get out of it, or just outward attraction, I would encourage you to get out. But if you are with someone who you would sacrifice for, who you would wait until marriage to have sex with because you don't want to take that away - That is true love. There are too many people out there that base there relationships on lust, and forget about there future, or their marriage, or there purity, or there children, or there standards.
Sorry ths is so long, I could seriously write on this for the entire day, I think I am going to start a series in February on dating and relationships.
Peace
Josh

I am ready for the summer

2007-01-23T07:02:00.000-06:00

I have to say I am getting sick of it being cold, it was cool for a week, but I am ready for summer. I am ready for t-shirts and shorts and sandals, I am ready to go to the beach, I am ready for chilling at the pool. I am ready for the sun! I know a lot of people like the cold, I am just not one of them. To me there is nothing in the world like water and when it is cold you cannot get in water, I was born for the water. I love to swim, it is so refreshing!
I was thinking about what are the things in my life that are refreshing and I began to think the most refreshing thing is when you havent been in the presence of the Lord for a long time, maybe because you get busy, or you miss church, or your stop reading the word, or you are just dry. And then something happens and you get back in the presence of the Lord, that is one of the most refreshing times. When is the last time you were just refreshed in the presence of the Lord. When you just let Him wash you and refresh you through worship, or prayer or the word.
The word says in Acts 3:19, "Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that TIMES OF REFRESHING may come from the PRESENCE OF THE LORD!"

We are refreshed when we are in His Presence, and it starts with Repentance. Repentance is just simply being hones with the realization that you have been away from His Presence and Returning, having your sins washed away. I would say that is more refreshing than anything in this world. Do you need refreshed? It doesnt matter what you have done, all you need to do is repent and He will wash your sins away. Let today be a day of refreshing in the Presence of the Lord.
Josh

The VOID in all of us

2007-01-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

So no baby yet, I am praying for a Thursday delivery. This morning has been a rocking morning in Isaish 55. This passage is blowing me away. I want to encourage everyone to seek the Lord, there is nobody who is too far, or who is too young, or who is too into sin, or who is too old. The Lord is near, and anyone who calls on His name can touch His Heart. We pursue this void in our hearts, that only He can satisfy, through relationships, through the pursuit of happiness (which is a good movie by the way), through entertainment, through sin, and it all leaves us hopeless with a void still in our hearts that only God can fill.

Yesterday's service was so awesome, I get so excited when I see people get saved, and yesterday the altar was full of lives that were being born again. I feel that today is the day of salvation, and there are prodigals that need to get right with God today, Isaiah 55:6-7 says, "Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call upon HIm while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteousness man his thoughts, and LET HIM RETURN TO THE LORD, And He will have Compassion on Him and to our God, He will abunduntly pardon."
I know there are millions of people in this myspace world who are searching for that void in there heart, and many of them once knew the Lord, but have let dissapointment, or just the word take over. I pray that they would return to the Lord, and recieve his compassion and mercy and his forgiveness and His love.
Have a great week
Josh

I am an idiot, and my wife is incredible!

2007-01-19T10:53:00.000-06:00

I am an idiot! I have a pulled groin muscle and I thought that I could play soccer last night. Well let's just say I gave it a good try and I was horrible. When it comes to playing sports I just love it so much I cant say no! Anyway pray for me and quick healing because I have my first ice hockey game for this season on Saturday night and I really want to play, unless of course I am in the hospital or at home with the new baby!!!
Marian is really starting to show early signs of possibly going into labor. I really need to brag about her though. I have always heard that when a girl is 9 months pregnant, that they are miserable, and not fun to be around. Marian has been totally the opposite. She is on the treadmill right now as I am writing this at home. Literally working out the day she could have her baby. That is dedication, she is so much fun to be around, and she is not miserable. At least if she is she doesnt talk about it all the time.
Anyway I am blessed, Marian is the best! And I think she is going to be an amazing mom. I just hope I am a good dad.
As soon as something happens I will post pictures and talk about the experience.
Have a great weekend
Josh

I hate playing it safe

2007-01-18T07:07:00.000-06:00

Last night was hard for me, I hated cancelling 1829. Just so everyone knows, I really wanted to still do it, especially after everthing melted and the roads were fine. I just think it is hilarious how are city is paralyzed from a half inch of snow in the morning. But I guess it is for the better good to be safe than sorry. I just don't want to live my life that way, I don't just want to play it safe. I want to take risks, and step out and go MAD! This is something that I try and apply to my life daily - I call it go "MAD" it stands for Go Make a Difference in someone's life. A lot of times when we just "play it safe" We never become the shining stars that God has called us to be.
Phillipians 2:15 says, "So that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as shining stars in the universe and lights in the world."
Sometimes we miss out on being shining stars and lights in the world, because we are playing it safe, and not saying anything about Jesus and what He has done in our lives. Or by playing it safe we miss out on giving someone hope, who is hopeless, someone love who is hurting, someone joy who is depressed, someone healing, who is sick, and someone salvation who is lost.
Did you know according to George Barna that most churced believers will die without ever leading a single person to Jesus. And most of them will not even tell one person about this Saviour they have given their lives to. Playing it Safe! I can hear the thoughts going on in our heads, "what if they think I am crazy, what if they laugh at me, what if they don't want to be my friend anymore, what if they get mad at me, i think i would rather be safe than sorry. And we never take any risks and in return we never make any difference in anyones lives, therefore we live in a perverse generation with no one being a light or a shining star for Jesus.
So anyway sorry to everyone wanted to come to 1829 we will be back in action next week, and it is going to be awesome. But don't wait until then to be a shining star in your school or work or family, not because you made an A, or because you are a star in sports, or because you are the employee of the month, but becasue you being the light in the world that is making a difference in someone's life.
Go MAD
Josh

personal story of freedom

2007-01-17T09:35:00.000-06:00

I cant believe that it is snowing, what a trip. We are still deciding whether we will have 1829 tonight, but I am so excited about the message I have prepared I don't want to cancel, but if it is dangerous we will do what is right.
A buch of us went out last night to the Radiant Watching party, and it was pretty cool to see my friends on Jimmy Kimmel - even though I think Jimmy Kimmel is the least funny person on tv, except for maybe carrotop. I am excited for Levi and they rocked on the show.
But I was talking to someone last night about smoking, and I began to think about how I have no desire to smoke a cigarette, but that has not always been the case. Now if you are reading this and you smoke, don't get offended, I dont have any problem with you smoking if you are over 18, And No I do not think it will keep you from heaven, but Yes it will get you there faster. I have had 2 grandfathers who have died from smoking too much, and probably would have lived longer.
But one thing I know is there was once a time, where I was a slave to the addiction of tobacco through smoking cigarettes, and I was a teenager and it was a sin in my life. It started when I was 13 just smoking once, it turned into me being an 18 year old who smoked at least a pack a day.
John 8:34 Jesus says, "Truly, Truly I say to you everyone who commits sin is the SLAVE OF SIN."
The truth is this is how sin works, it starts with a one time act and turns into a lifestyle.
First, sin captivates you. Then it captures you. You thought you could stop. You can't. You thought you could get out any time. Wrong.

Someone has wisely pointed out that sin always takes you farther than you ever thought you'd go, it keeps you longer than you ever thought you'd stay, and it costs you more than you ever thought you'd pay.

But the good news is that the next verse speaks on Freedom. And no matter how many years, or how addicted, or how hard it might seem, there is one who has the power to break the chains of being a slave to sin. There is a reason that I went from someone who had to smoke, to someone who has no desire to smoke.
Verse 36 says, "So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed"
So no matter what your sin is, how ugly it is, You can be free. Maybe you started looking at pornography at a young age and now you are a slave to it, Maybe you smoked a joint at a young age and you are now a drug addict, maybe you have a eating problem, no matter what you are a slave to - Jesus want to set you free. Today can be your day of FREEDOM! You do not need to go to church, you don't need a 12 step program, you don't need someone to lay their hands on you. I was in my car when I recieved the freedom of Christ - who broke every chain of addiction in my life when I was 18.
Don't be a slave to sin another day, because he who the Son sets free is free indeed!

Have a fun day in the snow
Josh

A cool story of answered prayer

2007-01-16T06:59:00.000-06:00

I have a cool story about how God answers prayer. But first I just want to remind everyone who is over 18 to go to the new Men and Women's Life groups that start tonight. Guys will be meeting at Justin Ransom's house, and Girls will be meeting at Candiss Smiths house. These are going to be amazing life groups, and I just want to encourage you if you are over 18 and have tonight open to come to them. Just make sure you go to the right gender appropriate group!
Ok so to the praise report of how God is always watching over us. My wife is completely pregnant, and ready to have her baby, so she scheduled a pressure point massage that is supposedly known for causing women to go into labor. Well she woke up on Monday Morning and had a little uneasy feeling about the whole thing. She asked me what I thought, and of course I am ready for her to have the baby said, oh it is just being nervous, it should be fine. Well she still didn't have a total peace, but prayed and asked the Lord to guide her steps. So when she showed up the massage therapy guy told her I gave one of those massages to a woman last week and she had the worst 24 hour labor and had to have a C-section. So he refused to give her that pressure masssage and instead just gave her a normal massage. Marian was so thrilled that God had answered her prayer, and guided her steps, even though her idiot husband didn't even take time to really pray.
Anyway when we trust in the Lord with all of our heart, and do not lean on our own understanding, HE WILL direct our path. Proverbs 3.
I encouarge you to read Proverbs 3 if you havent in a while. God is watching out over us, and answering our prayers.
Peace
Josh
Oh yeah, Yes I did watch 24 last night, and yes I do think that it was the most shocking episode ever. I do have to say this is the best and really only show worth watching on TV.

I am loved

2007-01-15T08:23:00.000-06:00

I got all ready to go to work this morning and found out that the offices do not open until noon. So I am now working from home. I just started off the week with reminding myself of how much God loves me. So often we concentrate our prayers, quiet time, journaling, worship on telling God how much we love Him, which is a good thing, and highly reccommended. But this morning I was just in a recieving mode and just sat back and recieved his undying love for me. And the cool part is He loves you just as much. Here are some scriptures on how much he loves me and you, and what he did for us.
Revelation 5:9 - "For you were slain, and by your blood you have purchased us to God" God redeemed, purcased, bought, rescued, restored us by letting his son Jesus shed his blood and be slain on a cross. That is Love, man!
Isaiah 53:10 - "Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him, He has put HIm to grief." verse 6 - "And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all." - Some may say this is a demented God, but I say it is a God that is in love with all of His people, including you, that He was pleased to see His son die. Because He knew, he could be with you today!
Romans 8:38 - "neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor heigth nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
There are so many more scriptures that you can dwell on, take time today to just think about how much HE LOVES YOU! And recieve that love, becasue nothing can separate you from that love.
I am loved
Josh

A "GREAT" Staff!

2007-01-12T09:30:00.000-06:00

I was just thanking God this morning for the people he has put into my life. I am so grateful for fellow leaders who walk with me and support me in reaching this generation. It is awesome to know that if my wife went into labor, I don't have to worry about the ministry shutting down, or stuff not getting done. Here are just a few that I thank God for.
1. Levi Smith - What an awesome best friend. He has been serving and hasn't stopped serving with me for over 10 years, and we have been friends for our entire life. It is so cool to be in ministry and walk out childhood dreams with your childhood friends.
2. Nathan Watkins - I thank God for Nathan - I really do not know what I would do without him. He has the best adminstrative skills and memory of anyone I have ever met. And for me, who is directionally and administrativley challenged, I am more than grateful for Nathan, He is also such an example of what a Godly Father is and I just love the guy.
3. Zach Lowrie - Zach is someone I have seen come from being a youth who wasnt sure if he really wanted to serve God, to being one of the most Godly Servants I have ever seen. It has been so cool to see his transformation, and I think he is going to be one of the greatest pastors and leaders I have ever seen, and he cracks me up.
4. Marvin Slaton - Marvin directs Lifewalk, I have never seen someone who invests his life through giving his time to a group of young people who are the Lifewalk students. I am so grateful for this man of God, he is truly a great leader, and works his butt off.
5. Jenae Tankersly - Jenae is awesome, we are so blessed to have her. She is someone who I can count on to get the job done, but I am most impressed with her heart for God, and to go deeper with Him. She challenges me in my walk and I hope we are in ministry together for a long time.

I could keep going, but I will stop with these leaders who make up the student ministry staff. If you see one of these leaders, tell how awesome they are and how much they mean to you, trust me leaders need to be encouraged too. And to quote Paul or whoever you think wrote Hebrews- "pray for your leaders , Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account, Let them do this with Joy and not with Grief." Hebrews 13:17

Very Grateful
Josh

Non-Negotionables in my life

2007-01-10T07:20:00.000-06:00

I was thinking this morning of how many things there are to do today. I have a busy schedule, and I so cherish my morning hours alone with God. I sometimes feel overwhelmed, and one thing I have had to learn to do is learn how to say no to something so I can say yes to what must be done.
I was reading about Jesus in Luke 4 and seeing Jesus say No to what the devil was asking him to do. That is something that is a little more easy than saying no to what people were asking him to do. In verse 42 He comes from ministering all day to those who had diseases and it says, "When day came, Jesus left and went to a secluded place, and the crowds were searching for HIm, and came to Him and tried to keep HIm from going away from them, But He sais to them, I MUST preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, for I was sent for this purpose."
I began to think of what are the Must in my life, the non-negotinable thing that I was sent for this very purpose. So many times we end up running around all stressed out, trying to satisfy everybody, and often satisfying nobody. We lead these frustrated, burnt-out lives because we forget our "musts". And those non-negotiables have to come from God. And if you ask Him, God will lay on your heart your personal mission or missions. And some will be needs that only you can meet - like being there for your family or like reaching your lost friends and family for Christ. You need the kind of clear "I must" priorities that Jesus had.
So here is a list of my non-negotionables
1.To have time with God everyday with noone else around - I must meet with HIm in the secret place
2. To be a loving Husband and spend quality time with my wife. I must put her first and spend at least one night a week on a date where it is just me and her!
3. To be a Father who is there for his daughter, who loves her by showing putting her above work, and even ministry
4. To be a good brother, son, and friend to the people God has put in my life - I must be approachable and available to these close relationships
5. To preach the good news through actions and words. I must live a life that preaches good news, that enables me to share it through the oppurtunities God gives me
6. To be a light in a dark world, I must reach the lost through being a light no matter where I am
7. To do the will of God through living a pure life and minsistering to the people God brings and takes me to. I must be a pure man!

These are non-negotionables - things that are musts, things I cannot say No to! These are purposes of God in my life.
Now for some things that I can say No to -just a few for fun
I do not have to
1. I don't need to Watch TV, or be entertained through media. This is not a must, I don't care how much I love 24 - it is not a priority
2. I don't have to meet with every single person that comes to church, This is why we have a team, and I need to be able to say no and not feel like I am letting that person die and go to hell -
3. I don't have to go to Starbucks every day, even though I want to - 4 dollars a day for a latte adds up!
4. I don't have to go on every mission trip that we take, even though I want to - I need to hear which one God wants me to go on.
5. I don't have to go to every single meeting and prayer watch that Shady Grove does, sorry if this offends you, but I do like being at home once in a while, What is God speaking to me to be involved with
6. I dont have to make everyone feel like they need to be at every meeting that I am at. It is not the will of God for every single person to be at 1829.
7. I don't have to answer my cell phone every time it rings, and then feel bad for pushing the red button.
8. I don't have to respond to forwards that tell me if I don't forward a message that I am not a real Christian and am not bold and that people's lives hang in the balance of me forwarding a message that doesnt even make much sense. Sorry I usually push delete.
9. I dont have to watch every single Mavs, Stars, Longhorns, Rangers and Cowboys Gome. It is ok for me to miss a sports game every once in a while.

Well, there are thousand more things that are just not non-negotionable. I could keep going, but I need to get ready to go to the house of prayer. Maybe it would be good for you take time and write down the non-negotionable musts in your life.
Peace
Josh

Change is not always bad

2007-01-09T07:10:00.000-06:00

I am going to the doctor today with Marian, and it is crazy that any day now we could have a child, I am starting to think about how much that is going to change my life. Sometimes, that is what we need most in life - something that takes place and just changes everything. I remember when I first gave my life to Jesus in 1994 - It completely changed my life. And then when I went on my firt mission trip - It completely changed my life. And then when I got married - totally changed my life. When I became the youth pastor - it changed my life. These were all awesome changes though, because they were God's will and I needed change. Sometimes God brings something new into our life, or takes us somewhere new, like a new job, or a new nation and He does it because He loves us, and he wants us to get out of the rut. Change is not always bad - there are some people who live there whole lives without change.
Maybe you are in a difficult time, or place because God wants to bring something or take you somewhere that is just going to change everything.
Blessings
Josh

Props to Judah Smith and the Seahawks

2007-01-08T07:12:00.000-06:00

Ok, First and foremost I must give props to Judah Smith of Seattle, whose Seahawks are superior than my Cowboys. We had a deal, and I am now rooting for the Seahawks and the Godly Shuan Alexander to go all the way to the Bowl - Even though there is no chance. Anyway, once and again the Cowboys just leave you dissapointed, I hope they get rid of Bill Parcells this offseason. I just think that the Seahawks have the favor of the Lord on them.
But it came down to one play - one botched snap, and it could be the other way. One defining moment, that ultimately decided the outcome of the game whether they win and stay alive, or they lose and go home.
In life it comes down to one defining moment, one game changing decision, that decides the outcome of our life. That is have you said yes to Jesus, that is your defining moment that will decide whether you are going to keep living in eternal life, or whether you lose and go where there is no life - Hell!
John 10:10 says, the theif has come to steal, kill and destroy, but He (Jesus Christ) has come to give life, and life more abunduntly. Have you said Yes to Him! Have you accepted this abundunt life, have you chosen life over death. This is your defining moment, it changes the outcome of the game. Dont botch the snap, Don't accept the lies, destruction and ultimately death that anything outside of Jesus brings in your life. Say Yes to Him all over today - And experience His abundunt life!
Yes Lord and Go Seahawks!
Josh

Goals and Vision for 2007!

2007-01-05T10:29:00.000-06:00

I recently wrote down my personal goals for 1829 the student ministry of Shady Grove church, and I though why not put them where the whole world can see! Maybe someone will get a little vision, because I can tell you right now there is NO WAY I will be able to accomplish these goals by myself, But with a team of people I believe we can see the greatest year of harvest we have ever seen.
First here are some highlights of 2006
- Had over 200 Salvations of young people on wednesday nights!
- Took 160 people to sky ranch and saw many saved, healed and delivered - call to Intimacy was strong!
- Went on Mission trips to Phillipines and Mexico
- Graduated around 50 students through our discipleship program called submerge
- Lifewalk, our discipleship training school led by the amazing Marvin Slaton, graduated 10 students in May, and started a new year with 15 students
- The College Ministry started in September with the Gathering and Life Groups and House of Prayer, and is continued to grow!
- Took over 200 students to Summer Camp, Where God moved in power and many students made a commitment to change the atmosphere in their schools, neiberhoods, and families
- Seeing Prayer start at schools everyday around the pole

Vision and Goals for 2007

In 2007 I would like:
1. To see more students discipled in the value of Intimacy, Community and Mission. Though House of Prayer meetings, lifegroups, and accountability partnership
2. To make more of an impact on the schools and universities of Grand Prairie, Arlington, Irving and HEB!
3. To see 15 new lifegroups started this year - some led by Students!
4. To see the College Ministry grow to 300 students this year
5. To see 500 salvations of young people this year
6. To see new young leaders raised up in the student ministry
7. To see families that are broken restored through teenagers who honor and love their parents.
8. To see 1000 students in Jr. High, High School, and College involved with Shady Grove Church
9. To take more students on missiontrips, retreats and camps than we ever have.
10. To see God move in Revival through this generation with a Spirit of Holiness and the Standard of Purity
11. To see Laurel Wheeler Healed! And many more signs and wonders and miracles through a realease of the Power of God
12. To see people lay their lives down for others!

I know this is a lot of numbers, we are not just about numbers, we are about people and we want to reach as many people as we can with this message of hope and love through Jesus Christ - So come and be a part of 1829, who knows God could use you to see this vision and these goals come to pass, it is not going to just be me!
I believe this is going to be a year of the Harvest!
Blessings
Josh Briscoe

A call to come "together"

2007-01-04T08:47:00.000-06:00

One of the values of Shady Grove is Community. I really believe that this is something that God wants to establish in greater measure this year of 2007. As I have been praying for the year, I believe God is going to give us a heart for people. But not just people as numbers, but people that are called to be in this community, who are in the pit of despair right now. As our hears are set upon the Lord from the foundation of intimacy, I believe our eyes will be set upon the harvest of souls that are all around us everyday in our work, school, neiberhood, family, and city. I have been reading in Acts 2 and just reading about the effects of community. The church of Acts were always together, they were always in community. Acts 2:44 says, "All the believers were together and had everything in common ... they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."
Now days, most people are alone more than they are together. I believe we need to be together more than ever, united with the mind of Christ, seeing other people as more important than ourselves.
But what about where you are? Are believers together? Or are they separated by denominational turf, by neighborhoods, by racial backgrounds, by doctrinal differences, jealousies, or by leader's egos? We could go so much farther in rescuing the dying people around us - in being taken seriously by a lost world - if we could just do it together - a community, centered around intimacy, commited to mission. Not individuals, not alone, not independent, but TOGETHER!
Blessings
Josh

Just being me

2007-01-03T07:25:00.001-06:00

Last night I reverted back to my old ways - I worked a Mavs game. I know that many of you think that I am to old to be entertaining the crowd at Mavs games, but I don't care. I love being me, I have so much fun just being who I am - and I love people. I think that is why I loved working for the Mavs so much, it is like meeting 50,000 new people every night. I am so glad that I don't have to be like someone else to do what I do. I think there is a reason why God made each of us totally different from one another. Think about it for a minute - There is noone in the world that is exactly like you, you a once in a lifetime master workmanship created by God. Everything about you is unique, and I promise you that you will never have as much fun, or enjoy life trying to be like someone else. Could you imagine if I tried to preach like TD Jakes - that would be a joke! I would always fail when trying to be someone else or copy somebody elses personality or life.
So no matter who you are, or what you look like, or what your good at - enjoy being you, it's ok to even love being who God created you to be. There is so many copycats in this world, when everyone is trying to be like someone else, noone will fulfill their indiviual, unique purpose and calling on their life. There are things that God only has prepared for you to do, there are people that are only going to listen to you, not some preacher. There are creative ideas that only you are going to have. And you will miss these amazing God purposes if your not just being you. So no matter how goofy, or reserved, or crazy you are, just be you and have fun in life serving Jesus!
The one and only
Josh

Just being me

2007-01-03T07:25:00.000-06:00

My two biggest loves!

2007-01-02T06:55:00.000-06:00

I was thinking of the two biggest loves in my life this morning, just thanking God for them. First of course is my wife, Marian. She is amazing and I am so blessed - I am so in love with this woman, she is God's perfect bride for me, and I rejoice over her. Second, is my daughter who is not even here yet. I know this is crazy, but even with her in the womb, I am madly in love with this baby. Because she is mine, she belongs to me, I am her father. Sometimes I will sing over her, most of the time it is pretty funny, but I love her already, and she isn't even able to love back yet. It doesnt matter, She is my daughter, and that is awesome.
I was reading in Zephaniah chapter 3 this morning and it says in verse 17, "The Lord God is in your midst, a Victorious warrior, He will exult over you with His joy, He will quiet you with His love, And he rejoices over you with singing shouts of joy!"
I began to think of how the Bible refers to God in relationship with His people that He created which is all of us. He is a loving Father to His sons and daughters. He sings over us, He loves us even before we are able to love back. We are his sons and daugthers and He rejoices over us as a loving Father.
God, through Jesus Christ, is also refferred to us in relationship of a bridegroom who is lovesick over his bride. We are His Bride, and He loves us with the deep, passionalte love of what Marriage is intended to be built upon - Intimacy! The Deepest places in His heart burn with love for us. He will quiet us with this love.
Today, recieve this love that only comes from the two biggest relationships in life - From a Father who calls you His very own son or daughter. And from a Husband who is deeply, madly in love with you and want to quiet you with His love. There is nothing like His Love - His Fathers love, and His intimate love, recieve it today.
Blessings
Josh

A "new" Year!

2007-01-01T10:54:00.000-06:00

Well it is 2007 and I am super excited about this new year. I keep hearing that this is a new year full of new things. I believe there are new open doors, new ministry oppurtunites, new business oppurtunities, new blessings, and new fruit. I am going to have a new life with a new child. I believe God has something "NEW" for everyone.
But to see it happen, or to hear what the "new" is for you, I believe you should start the year with "Seperation".
There was first a seperation before there was a new word, a new day, a new you.
In Genesis 1 the word "Seperated" is used on numerous occasions: "And God seperated the light from the darkness", And God seperated the waters", "and God seperated the day from the night".
I believe that God has something new for you to do - but first you must seperate the light from the darkness. Take this first week and look at what you need to seperate from your life - that keeps you from the "new". Maybe it is some tv time, maybe it an addiction, maybe it is sleeping in, maybe it is condemning thoughts, maybe it is even this whole computer world that you are stuck in. It is time for something new in your life, do not miss it becasue you are not willing to seperate.
The word the Bible uses is consecration or sanctification - which means to set apart. To Sepearte yourself from the things that so easily distract you from the "new" He has new finances, new ministries, new leadership, new salvations, new desires, new projects, all just for you! So ask Him what He wants you to seperate!
Happy New Year
Josh

I can't wait

2006-12-29T10:32:00.000-06:00

I am so excited that in less than a month I am going to be holding a brand new baby girl! That day is going to be so amazing and it is becoming more and more real. It could literally happen at any time.
I was reading this morning 1 Peter 2:2 - "Like Newborn Babies long for the Pure Milk of the WORD, so that by it you may GROW in respect to salvation."
I was thinking of how I am looking forward to holding my newborn baby. But I am thankful that for the next 25 years that is not what I will be doing is just holding a newborn. But the exciting part is I am going to watch her grow to be a beautiful woman of God.
The Lord showed me through this passage that salvation is like that newbirth, it is like the starting point, not where we stop. We must GROW! I am glad I am not a newborn Christian who is 11 years old. Imagine if a baby never grew - THAT WOULD BE WEIRD!
So how do we grow - It starts with a longing for the pure milk of the word. We grow through the Word - THE BIBLE!
People who get saved, and never read their word, will never grow. Some will survive a few years by being surrounded by people who are in the word, or through serving a ministry or through a good church. But if you remove them from that environment they will die spiritually. The Bible is our pure milk, that become that juicy steak as we mature.
I want to encourage everyone who is reading this to start to read your Bible every day. Maybe you were once going to church - but you have stopped growing, or you have moved on. I can almost guarantee that it is becasue you were not in the word. Let this new year be a year where your not just saved, but you are growing through the longing of the word of God. Read one verse, or one chapter or one book a day and you will grow.
Josh

Extreme is out

2006-12-28T09:35:00.000-06:00

One word that I am so sick of is the word extreme. I got another postcard to another conference with the word extreme in it the other day. EXTREME YOUTH INVASION 2007 - Can we please stop using this word.
I think the reason I do not like this word is because I think people who are exreme are very emotional. I think extreme and emotional are kind of married. People who are extremely high also become extremely low. Whenever things are going awesome or your at a week of camp, or in a conference or revival, you are extremely passionate and zealous. And you are invincible - until something bad happens. You get persecuted, or you go through a hard time financially, or your parents get divorced, or you just dont feel emotionally high. And you go from an extreme Christian High - to the extreme low of having no passion, which leads to not going to church or getting involved with things in this world.
There is a word I like a lot better - Stablility! James chapter 1 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible verse 8 says that "a double minded man is unstable in all his ways." Going from extreme highs to extreme lows is kind of like being double minded - and it is all based on your circumstancial emotions based on what is going on in your life. And the Bible calls you unstable in all you ways, like a wave tossed to and fro - like a up and down rollercoaster of emotional Extremes!
Why not make this new year a year of being stable in consistent in being a Christian not based on what is going on in your life, but based on who is in control of your life. Not based on what has God done for me lately, but based on Who God is! Not based on your emotions and if you feel like it, but based on your commitment to serve Him no matter how you feel. Maybe you dont feel like reading the word everday, do it anyway. Maybe you don't feel like being accountable to someone - do it anyway. Maybe you do not feel like going to the house of prayer - do it anway, regardless of how you feel. I can promise you that you will become stable, and you will experience breakthrough, even when you are not a super extreme, highly unstable Christian. And people will begin to trust and come to you, becsue they know you are going to be there, no matter what is going on in your life.
So stop being an extremist and start being a consistent, loyal follower of Jesus who seeks him daily no matter how you feel.
Love
Josh

A Chistmas blessing!

2006-12-27T00:21:00.000-06:00

The Briscoe's had the best Christmas. I was so overwhelmed with the goodness of God, it was amazing. Everybody got amazing gifts, and there was just so much love. We were able to have a young man who rides the bus to 1829 come and spend the night and wake up on Christmas morning with my family. He was overwhelmed and was so blessed. This young man lost his father in the hurricane, he is from New Orleans, and actually was with his dad when he died and was rescued on top of his house from a helicopter because of the flooding. His life has been pretty bad, he has moved here with his mom - who lives another lifestyle, and he is pretty much on his own. But, he blessed me so much, he is full of joy, and has really used all of the bad things in his life to grow closer to God. It was weird but this Christmas I was touched by someone I was trying to reach out too. I really think he blessed me this year, just to see his heart for Jesus, and that he has joy, with everything that has happened in his life.
Sometimes I forget how blessed I am, and how easy it is to be grateful, I have a wonderful family, a beautiful wife, a awesome job, a free country, a nice car, a nice house, money to eat with, and so much more. To be around someone who doesnt have these things an still has joy in his heart and love for God, it blessed me!
Thanks ALAN!
Josh

Christmas with the Family

2006-12-22T11:06:00.000-06:00

Last night was alot of fun, me and Marian went with Selah and Mike and Gavin to Joe Pool Lake to eat and see Christmas Lights. I do have to say the Prairie Lights is not worth it though there are probably a lot better places to see lights, and not sit in traffic. But the best part was just being with Family - that is the best thing about Christmas!
I love Christmas with my family. The greatest thing about being a big family is there are always a lot of presents under the tree. And everyone in my family (including Brandon) would rather give a gift than recieve a gift. It is always so awesome to see someone touched by a gift, that you either bought or prepared for them.
But imagine how horrible it would be if I were to open a gift from my sister (Just pick one) and immediately got out my wallet and began to push money for the gift. That would be an insult - to try and pay for a gift that has already been purchased with love for you to recieve.
This Christmas season we are always reminded of the greatest gift that was ever given, and that has already been paid for. Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, But the FREE GIFT of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord!" This is one my first verses I memorized, and it is the first verse I ever preached on at the Salvation Army when I was 19. I love this verse because it says "FREE GIFT" We do not deserve, We do not have to pay for it, We just need to recieve it. Salvation has been purchased for you on the cross. And how foolish would it be to try and purchase it with money, or good works. The giver gave it with love in his heart for you. Just recieve it, and know that eternal life is the best gift in the world!
Merry Christmas
Josh

Wow what a Christmas revelation!

2006-12-21T10:20:00.000-06:00

I had this amazing revelation today in my devotional of how God's plans are unstoppable when you are walking in His will. I was reading in Luke 2 and I noticed that Jesus Birth in Bethlehem was a miracle thanks to an evil man! Let me show you:
Luke 2:1-4. "In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world ... and everyone went to his town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. in order to register along with Mary who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth, and she gave birth to her firsborn son and she wrapped Him in clothes and laid Him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn."
Then the rest of the nativity story takes place. But the thing that sticks out to me is how all of this happened - the man seemingly making all this happen is the Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus. History tells us that he murdered members of his family, he actually was a mass murderer, and he instituted emperor worship. He was, in many ways, a monster. And here is little Joseph caught up in the great whirlpool of history. But it is Caesar Augustus who turns out to be the bit player in this historical event of the birth of our savior. He thinks he's flexing his muscle with this universal census, but this most powerful man on earth is only an unsuspecting instrument in the hands of a sovereign God.
I read in my devotional this morning and this is what I read - it really ministered to me and maybe it will minister to you today -
"God will get His destiny couple to His destiny place, even if He has to move an entire empire to do it! The Christmas story is God's powerful statement that God's plans are unstoppable! Including His plans for you. Plans that He says in Jeremiah 29:11 are "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Now it may be that right now there appears to be no way things can turn out right. The money isn't there, your health isn't there, the relationship looks impossible, the job frustrations are mounting, the mountain isn't moving, and the answer isn't coming. It looks as if there's no way for things to work out, not enough time for an answer to come.

But you belong to the God who, with the stroke of an evil man's pen, moved an empire to place His kids, Joseph and Mary, right where they were supposed to be. Yes, there was a difficult process, but God delivered them exactly where they were supposed to be. And God will get His plans for you accomplished if He has to move an empire to do it, or use even a godless instrument to do it.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Just getting Him there was a miracle! So relax in the strong arms of the God of Bethlehem. He will move whatever He has to move to finish what He has started in your life!
Do not worry for
He is in Control
Josh

Teamwork

2006-12-18T00:03:00.000-06:00

tonight was our youth leaders Christmas Party. I am so blessed to be surrounded by leaders who love Jesus, are real, and like to have fun! Being a part of a team is something I always want to be a part of. The church in Acts was all about team, or family. They did everything together, they prayed together, they broke bread together, they were always together and they shared everything.
Anyway I hope I am never a lone ranger or independent. I need team, I need people all around me - serving together, laying our lives down for one another and committed to each other. God has intended for us to always be in a team - in marriage, in ministry, in family, in everything. I thank God for our youth leaders who are faithfully committed to this generation.
Blessings
Josh

YES LORD!

2006-12-14T10:50:00.000-06:00

For those of you who were not at 1829 last night - it was one of the most powerful nights we have ever had. Worship was so awesome - you can literally feel the presence of God resting in that place. There is so much life in 1829! But the best part - the part that makes me say YES LORD! Last night 8 young people made the decision to make Jesus Christ there Lord and Savior!!!! The Salvation of souls is to me the most exciting thing to be a part of - to see a person repent and recieve the greatest gift of all time - Jesus Christ who died for there sins. To see the Joy of the Lord come on a person who is being born again - who once was lost and now is found - whose old life of depression and anger is fading away while a new life of joy and peace and love is rising up. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT JUST MAKES YOU WANT TO SHOUT - YES LORD! Anyway I am super excited. I love what God is doing with this generation they are so hungry for Him.
I also rode the bus last night and I just want to say I love those kids who come on the bus. We are seeing breakthrough and it was just so awesome to sit down on the bus and talk about Jesus and College Football with these guys.
If you are experiencing Christmas and havent opened up the greatest gift of all time - the free gift of Salvation - I plead with you to just pray this simple prayer or call me or talk to someone you know that is saved.
"Jesus I believe that you are the Son of God and came and died on a cross for my sins, and I confess with my mouth that I am a sinner. I ask you to come into my heart and I give you my life and recieve the gift of salvation."
If you said that prayer - ANd you meant it - get involved with a church (Shady Grove is a good one) and begin a new life a new journy of living for Jesus. There is no better life
YES LORD
Josh

exciting nights!

2006-12-12T14:36:00.000-06:00

It is tuesday afternoon and I am getting ready for what is going to be an amazing night of fellowship, ministry and suprises. The Gathering is tonight and we are going to be doing some give aways and other special suprises tonight. Levi is leading us in worship and I will be sharing the vision for 2007. I cant wait, and then we have tomorrow night, All I can say is you do not want to miss 1829 tomorrow night. I am preaching the last part in the series on Personal Revival, we will be looking at the life of Moses some more. Levi is also leading on Wednesday - and there is hilarious video with Jon Nickerson and a really cool video that shows our LA trip. I just love seeing all of you and meeting new people every week. So if your coming tonight or tomorrow night - PLEASE BRING A FRIEND - it could change there life. And yes, I know it is Christmas, and I do not have to preach a Christmas Message! But we will have some definite Christmas flavor. And Hot Chocalate for everyone - yes it is free!
Cant wait to see you
Josh

the Cowboy game revelation

2006-12-11T00:15:00.000-06:00

The Cowboy game revelation

i just watched what quite possibly was the worst football game I have ever seen as the Dallas Cowboys were killed by the feel good New Orlean Saints. Oh Well it is probably good for the Cowboys to get a wake up call so they can work harder in practice this week. And yes once again I got a revelation watching this game.
Sometimes it is good to be humbled to realize that we are not perfect! Everyone was just talking about how the Cowboys are going to the Super Bowl (which I hope they still do) and how Tony Romo was already a hall of famer. The truth is the Cowboys got humbled tonight and have a lot of areas they need to work on to make it to that sweet land of the Super Bowl.
I guess my point in all of this is - We need to be humbled so we can see the truth - that we are all sinners saved by grace. As Revelation to the Laodicea Church puts it we are Naked, Blind, Poor and Wretched. We need to be reminded that we were once lost, and by God's grace we are found. This is the truth and if we forget it then we will probably miss that destiny that we have the potential to reach. IF there is one thing that God can't stand it is Pride. He opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
So maybe you are in a situation of being humbled and it is a good thing because now you can work on the areas that you struggle in, instead of thinking you have everything all together. The Cowboys are going to be working alot harder this week in practice because they were exposed to not be as great as everyone thought. But now they have a better chance to make it to the destiny of being Champions. The same goes for us.
I still need to work harder, seek Him more, love people more, serve the poor more, and be a better husband, brother, and friend.
Go Cowboys
Josh

Opputunities to serve

2006-12-09T15:08:00.000-06:00

So LA changed my life again. I cannot go to the dreamcenter and not be moved with compassion by a people who give there time and energy and money and sacrifice so much to reach out to mostly the poor and hurting. I am excited about the outreaches we have at Shady Grove and I thought I would just remind everyone of what you can do to help out with your time, energy and yes money - God knows we need money!
1. Busses - We send busses on Sunday Morning and Wednesaday nights. We pick up homeless on Sunday mornings and unchurched teenagers in Grand Prairie for 1829. We desperately need drivers and people who will just ride and build relationships.
2. PTC - Every Thursday we hand out groceries to around 400 families. This is a great oppurtunity to get out and give your time. It is very fun and fullfilling. There are also many other ways to volunteer at the PTC Center - just talk to Dave Green if you are interesteed
3. CITY LIFE KIDS - We take out the truck on Tuesday to the Dalworth Rec Center and on Wedensday to Covington Apartments. This is an awesome way to take a little of the joy of church to the streets.
4. The Wharehouse - On the other side of our building is a wharehouse where we store food and disaster relief - There is always work to be done. Contact Larry Simpson for more details
5. Holiday of Hope - This Saturday is a great oppurtunity to serve with your family to our community the Hope of Christmas. It is going to be awesome.
I believe that we will be adding many more outreaches in 2007 and we need everyone to give there time, or energy and if nothing else there money to help us bring LIFE TO THE CITY!
Merry Christmas
Josh

LA Confidential!

2006-12-08T00:27:00.000-06:00

LA Confidential!
I love going to LA! Right now it is my last night here and I am sitting with birthday boy and girl Hunter Nelson and Sarah Webb! We also got Andrew, Kyla and Ambe and the coolest of them all Angela Tijerina! We are celebrating an amazing trip with some calamari and chocalate cake in the lobby of the hotel! This year's trip has blown me away. The Lifewalk team is awesome and we have had such a good time. There is no better feeling than laying your life down and serving the poor and needy. We have been gone to skid row and santa monica and just loving people that most of us ignore or ridicule every day.
The coolest part is we rescued 2 ladies from the streets and are now in programs getting there life in order. Both are saved and one wants to come back with us.
I just want to pray that anyone who reads this will be moved with compassion today to reach out to someone and pray for them, or love them, serve them.
The holiday season is not the best of times for those who are homeless, or who have no family, or who have no parents. Please make a difference in someone's life who doesnt enjoy Christmas!
Well I cant wait to go home and see my awesome wife and feel my daughter kick when she hears her daddy's voice.
Peace
Josh

The Mordecai Challenge

2006-12-01T08:58:00.000-06:00

This morning in my devotional I felt the Lord give a challenge similar to the Mordecai Challenge in Esther 4:14. If you do not remember the story of Esther I encourage you to go and read it or you can go watch the movie that is out right now on the life of Esther.
But he challenges Esther – “And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this.”

The Lord is challenging me to rise up for such a time as this and not just be about myself, and my desire, but to even risk the effects of laying my life down for this generation. God has put us in situations, in work, in school, in playing sports, in neiberhoods, in families FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS! We do not need to wait to stand up and know these 2 important truths.

WHO YOU ARE – You are ambassador’s for Jesus Christ to the people all around you. And your actions will speak louder than words because of who you are. Know you sons and daughters of the MOST HIGH King of the Universe! You are sons of light who are awakened to a Lord who loves you more than anyone can love you in this world. KNOW WHO YOU ARE for such a time as this.

WHY YOU ARE HERE – You are here not just for youself, not just to get diplomas, and paychecks, not just to waste your days on entertainment. You are here to help rescue the people around you, You are here to see the Kingdom of God advanced. You are here so the people around you will be with you in eternal life in heaven! You are here to love the unlovely, the hurting, the depressed, the lonely. You are here to reach out to the poor, You are here to make a difference in the lives around you in work, in school and all other areas. You are here for such a time as this!

This is a challenge the Lord is giving us – Don’t just live your lives for yourselves – but for His purpose – it is the Mordecai Challenge and Esther responded and saw a nation spared – the Jewish people were rescued because one woman knew who she really was, and why she was put in the position she was in.
Blessings
Josh