"Goodbye 2007, Hello 2008"

After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Revelations 19:1

In the beginning there was praise and in the end there will be also. What a year 2007was. Unbelievable! So this year will end with a journal of praise. My praise is how God has worked in my family. God has taken us and created a living breathing unit and although we struggle at times I know we are still together. My children are incredible. Isaiah is an awesome little boy. Last week I watched my boy handing out drinks to people of the community and what a sight it was. This year our family grew with the addition of our little one Leia, Daddy’s little girl. I’ve watched my wife become an unbelievable person of influence both in and outside of the church, she’s managed our home, she’s taken care of me, she’s supported me, held me up, slowed me down, put me in the right frame of thinking, she does so much to help me to succeed. My family is incredible. God has also surrounded me with an incredible group of people from the CWCM team with unbelievable hearts and hands. If there is one word that I could sum up the team with it would sacrifice. Each member has sacrificed time and energy in the midst of 40+ hour work weeks, and full time college schedules. Each member has sacrificed themselves leaving their place of comfort to be used by God in a greater way. Every week the CWCM team brings it, they bring their best, they bring their creative minds, servant hands, but most of all they bring heart.

New challenges, great heights, some lows, always an adventure would describe my life in 2007. I have much to be thankful for. God what new adventure would you take me on this year? Whatever comes my way, help me to slow down when I need do, help me to dream when all I see is the dark, help me to serve and give when I have nothing, help me to trust you when I can’t track you, help me to be a better husband, a better father a better leader, help me to be a better Anthony then I was last year. I praise you for all that You are, All that You have done, and All that You will do in 2008 In Jesus Name, amen.

What are you producing? Journal 12-12

7Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. Hebrews 6:7

Picture this, a place where it rains every single day. Every day consistently the sky opens up and release drops of water upon this land but something is different about this land. Even though this place receives water daily there is little to anything growing. In fact, imagine a farm where only one head of lettuce grows, where only one apple tree grows, where only one potato grows.

This is the picture that I got today when I read today’s verse. This is the picture of an unfruitful Christian, even though God showers us with His voice through His Word and through His spirit every single day it’s possible to not produce. God’s word is like water to our life, it replenishes, it revives us, it causes us to live but the design goes much further, it’s supposed to live and produce through you. If your life represented a crop of land how much crop would be there? If your life represented an orchard how many trees would exist? What are you producing? It’s not enough to hear the word in my life, it has to activate and produce something. I have to monitor my growth closer. Growth doesn’t work on auto-pilot. I believe you have to look at your life often, your reactions, your speech, your thoughts, family, relationships, leadership all these are areas that we have to monitor our growth in. Can you see your devotional life in each of the above areas? Can you see what God has spoken to you and has it multiplied in those areas? What are you producing today? Are you monitoring your growth?

Lord I want to pay closer attention to what I am producing. I don’t want my life to represent a depleted land, or an empty orchard. Lord as you speak to me daily, let me slow down enough where I have no choice but to grow because the challenge is strong, your voice so evident, and your direction is so clear. In Jesus Name, amen.

“What does this have to do with the Great Commission?” Journal 12-06

Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed Phil 1:18

Despite what Paul faced in everything, anywhere, his heart’s desire was Christ proclaimed. How was it that Christ was made known? A short time ago I went through a situation that bothered me, I wanted to take control of things, I felt I had the right, I felt that it was necessary. A simple question was asked. The question cut right to the heart and made me look at the situation differently “What does this have to do with the great commission”? In other words what does this situation although bothering, although you desire to take control, have to do with making Christ known, proclaiming Him, progressing the Gospel?

What does this have to do with the great commission? was a question that I believe Paul asked himself often. At the end of the day how was Christ proclaimed in my life. Sometimes with people and with situations it’s hard to see this question but I believe if asked it can save relationships, frustrations, and bad decisions. Ask yourself today How is Christ being proclaimed through my life. Are you going through a difficult situation Paul said “for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance”

Lord let my hearts desire be Christ proclaimed in every way, in every circumstance, in times of frustration, in times of fatigue, in times of stress, in times of uncertainty let my heart focus on Christ Proclaimed. In Jesus Name, amen.

Shine Your light through me… (Todays Journal)

You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.
1Thess. 5:5

Jesus is the light of the world, His light reveals truth, it reveals hope, it reveals the way of relationship and eternal peace. We are sons of this light. No matter how dark a place can get the smallest light will always make a difference. So it’s not about who shines brightest it’s just about who’s shining. We are called and appointed to allow Jesus to shine through our lives.

This morning at work I had to go back out to the car. The most amazing sunrise had begun to take place. I saw the beginning of a new day, right before my eyes. I begin to sing in my heart “How great is our God”. With the start of each new day I have a decision to make is Anthony going to shine or is Jesus going to shine through Anthony. My influence is limited but Jesus’ influence through my life is limitless. But what about when I feel like my life and my light is like a flicker? Then it’s time to recharge. I have one of those flashlights that does not need batteries. To charge the light up you must shake it, the shaking passes a magnet through a coil creating a charge. As I journal and pass the word through my heart it recharges the light in my life and I begin to see God’s truth and His plan for my life, Jesus shines. Everyone needs a recharge, life has a way of leaving you depleted and drained and the best way to recharge is through God and His word.

Lord, you set up this time that I have had with you perfectly, thank you, I needed a recharge more than I thought. Thank you for showing me the way. Shine your light through my life when I speak, when I react, when I simply walk. Shine your light through me Jesus. In Jesus name, amen.

Practical Integrity by John C. Maxwell, edited by David M. Hasz

1. Character is more than talk. Start to walk every day doing what you say you’re going to do, and being who you say you are.
2. Talent is a gift, but character is a choice. Make the choice to walk with character in every little decision you make.
3. Character brings lasting success with people.

Bringing it home:
1. Search for the cracks in your integrity.
Spend some time looking at the major areas of your life (school, friends, work, parents, church) and identify anywhere you might have cut corners, compromised, or let people down. Write down every instance you can recall from the past two months.
2. Look for patterns.
Examine the responses you wrote down. Is there a particular area where you have a weakness, or is there a certain type of problem that keeps surfacing? Detectable patterns will help you diagnose character issues.
3. Face the music.
Create a list of people to whom you need to apologize for your actions, and then follow through with sincere apologies. In other words make it right with those you have wronged.
4. Rebuild.
Now that you have identified any areas of weakness, create a plan that will prevent you from making the same mistakes again.

Seeking Inward Renewal

16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16

How do you keep up with life? Better yet how do not let life run you over? How do you truly find rest, not rest by sleeping but internal rest? Internal prosperity is one of the things that God truly desires in our life. If I could define internal prosperity simply it would be the ability to have peace inside while in the middle of a storm on the outside. This thought came to my mind concerning energy drinks. There are so many energy drinks today, I thought to myself, why is it that people are so tired. And if energy drinks aren’t enough now we have energy candy and energy gum. I believe the reason why people are so tired is because internal prosperity is missing. True peace, the peace that passes all understanding, the peace that Jesus promises us is missing. Have you ever had a night where you went to sleep early but still feel tired the next day, it might mean that there is little peace in your life. It doesn’t matter how much you rest when your mentally exhausted there is no energy drink or any other thing that could help from the outside. The only thing that could help is the Lord. Paul say’s we have the ability to be renewed ever day. I thought about it, what would it feel like on the inside if I felt renewed every day. How would I respond to difficult decisions and problems if I felt renewed? What would my relationships be like if I felt renewed? How would my family, my health, my dreams, creativity, attitude, speech all be affected if I was renewed daily?

I believe that you have to seek inward renewal and it can’t just be when I’m mentally tired. I have to seek an inward renewal from the Lord every single day otherwise my heart is affected. In fact Paul say’s you can lose heart when your not renewed, isn’t that what frustration is, isn’t that what stress causes. I need to do a better job of seeking what renews me daily. What renews me? God, my family and last week I really felt renewed by the people who are serving right next to me, my teammates. I am so blessed to have a God and people He has placed in my life that strengthen my life. True rest is more than sleep it’s devotion time with the Lord, it’s family and relationships in your life.

Lord thank you for slowing me down. Thank you Lord for caring enough about me to place family in my life that renew me daily. Thank you Lord for all those you have placed in my life that encourage me to keep up this marathon, my prayer is that I would be able to bring them water and life as much as they do for me. In Jesus Name, amen.

CWC Milpitas HARVEST PARTY 2007 Update

We had a successful first annual Harvest Party in Milpitas last night. There were lots of smiles and even some tears as 11 people came to know Jesus Christ as their personal saviour last night. Thank You to all who participated, your works have eternal value in the kingdom. Enjoy the pics below.

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Stretch It Out!

And when He had looked around at them with anger, being greived by the hardness of thier hearts, He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other." - Mark 3:5

As I read this verse, a question came up: "Did it hurt to stretch?" If I was that man with that messed up, withered hand, would I be willing to stretch it out? What if it didnt work? What then? I wouldnt want to be embarrassed - would I have faith enough to even try it? Most of us would think the same way: "Well, if it doesnt work, that would be embarrassing, so I just wont try at all." In each of our lives, we have something, some part of us thats not functioning correctly. Although it would be scary & it might hurt, we have to stretch it out & get that area functioning properly! Jesus was wise in asking him to stretch his hand out. "Stretch" means to "straighten or extend one's body or part of one's body to it's full length, typically in order to reach something." Jesus had him stretch his hand out to restore it to normal position & to reach something new. As he now can use his hand properly, he can reach & attain those things that he was meant to.

Lord, I pray right now for ALL of us. We each have different areas that arent working correctly. Maybe it was an area where someone else gave us an injury. Maybe it's an area we were born with dysfunciton. Either way, God I ask that You give us courage & strength to stretch out the things we need to. We offer it to You. I know that You can do much more with our injuries than we can. Thank You Lord; I know You are faithful to heal & restore. I love You!

- Manda

Christian Worship Center Milpitas UPDATE!

Today feels like we took about thirty steps forward in terms of progress. We ended today's service in a huddle and I asked the question "How do we church", and they responded "As a team". When I hear an 80+ year old woman tell me "We are going to do it, together", this is the kind of stuff that I live for. The people are beginning to dream again, they feel part of the family! You should of seen the faces when I asked the question "How many of them had unsaved families" Some begin to cry, and some just nodded their head in pain. It was a great day of victory and yet we still have a ways to go but we are off to an amazing start.

The worship Team, is tearing it up, they are all flowing amazingly. Everyone worships with the attitude that it's not about the song but the heart behind the song. The team is working together as if they have been together for years.I can't even begin to imagine where we are going.

Everyone else has come together in such an awesome way. It's amazing how God places people of different races, different talents, abilities, and dreams together to do a great work. The CWCM team brings with them an unbelievable presence, the place comes alive when they enter the building. We are connecting with the people, and we are making an impact. All of these things push me forward, they challenge me and make me dream larger. One day, mark my words, one day really soon we are going to look at the lives that have been touched, changed and impacted, how families come to the altars as a whole to receive the Lord. Children and young people will be dancing at the altar during worship. We are building something for eternity. We are shaping lives and destiny every week, it's an honor and incredible journey.

Keep us in prayer, believe in the dream, we are all in this race together!

Much Luv,

-ant

Getting Ready for another WEDDING

Here comes the bride all dressed in white...
Wow! my life right now seems to be surrounded by weddings. Weddings that i have to attend and weddings that i have to be in. I'm being called by many loved ones to attend their weddings like Rob and Karly (Sep.15) Ulla and Liz (Dec. 15) and Alberto and Sophia (Jan. 6) but the most significant wedding that just occured was last Sunday, the wedding between CWC and Iglesia Immanuel. It was such an amazing night to see both churches merge and become ONE, CWC Milpitas! P.Dan shared the vision of CWC and to see everyone being supportive (thanks for coming out!) but more than that everyone is EXCITED for what's next. I loved it when P.D called out his whole staff and seeing these men standing tall made me just imagine how it would be for US in the islands. Knowing the struggles and success of these pastors pushes me forward because i wont be alone in this journey. Besides that what is a wedding without FOOD! it took me 3 years to finally try Jesse's menudo, and all i can say is WOW!! From a great service, to a great vision, to some awesome food, it was a night to be remembered. Thanks to all of you who made it out, and to those "soon to be's" I am excited and proud of you all, i can't wait for the food (haha).
LOVE YALL!

Thoughts on Sunday

This Sunday was Awesome! both in the morning service and night service. I'm still in awe of what God is doing in the CWC family. I may not know how Pastor Anthony feels like but I feel like it's to much to fast! At times i got to pinch myself and remind myself, "Hey you're starting a CHURCH!"
As God is leading Pastor Anthony on speaking about "Strong Families," I truly beleive God is going to do a great job bringing the CWC Milpitas church into a family bond that can't be broken. God won't just bring strong families to the church but he will build strong families within the church. Strong families=Strong churches. Sunday was a time of laughter, joy, but also a time to shed some tears. As families ran to the altars, you could just feel the presence of God doing a great work inside of them. Like Pastor Ant Said, "Family is what life is all about!"

Thoughts on Psalms 111

Hey Everyone, The Season of Suddenly is here! As i was reading the Lord pressed upon my heart 3 things in Psalms 111, here they are:

1) Psalms 111:2
"If you look for God's GREATNESS, you'll find it!" i remember this story Andy stanely once wrote about: His uncle took his kids out to the beach to go collect some type of shells. With a confused look on his face andy said, "there arent any of those shells around here." As the kids went out on their journey with their uncle, their whole mindset was to find these shells, to Andy's suprise they came back with bag fulls of shells. They knew what they wanted and what they were looking for, so they found it. Everywhere you go whether it's in school, at your job, or even in the bathroom (well maybe not there) look for Gods GREATNESS!
2) Psalms 111:4
There are things in history that are remembered but there are things that are never forgotten, Gods miracles are unforgettable! in school we learn about history, why? because we want to learn about where we came from and how we became this great nation. History books are filled with real life heroes that contributed in making America great, George Washington, M.L.K, Rosa Parks, etc. But the Bible records the great acts and miracles of our God, and if we didnt have a bible to count them, well all you would have to do is look in a mirror and you'll see the greatest of all miracles, YOU!
3) Psalms 111:5
God has made an agreement (promise) with me and himself. He sticks to it how bout you? Have you ever promised someone something? "hey i'll call you, dont worry i'll pay you back, or the famous...i wont tell no one." We've all made promises but most of the times we dont keep them. but there are those few promises that we do keep. Like i remember my friend told me to never say anything about her...thought i was going to tell you huh? I know i keep those promises because i cherish, care, and love those people, and guess what? God keeps his promises towards us because he cherishes, cares, and Loves US! Now what promises have you made with God, stick to them. God will be faithful in keeping his end of the agreement, I promise!

To Reach the World…

Look how the whole world has gone after him!" John 12:19

After Jesus had demonstrated His power and His love in Lazarus life many were talking. The Pharisees said “Look how the whole world has gone after Him.” Christ wants to demonstrate His power, His Love, and His grace through our life’s so that the world will come after Him. After completing the prophetic evangelism class, I’m hungrier than I’ve ever been before to touch people’s lives with the message of Christ. Everywhere I go now I’m so much more aware of people. Every person I meet I’m asking for word for their lives. Now a normal visit through to the grocery store is not normal anymore, I’m on a treasure hunt for a life to reach. I’m living with an internal GPS system (God’s Positioning System) to find and reach and rescue those who are lost.

V. 26 Say’s that where I am, my servant also will be. In other words Jesus will be where your suppose to be before you get there. The key is keeping my heart sensitive so that I will show up where Christ is at. Showing up where Christ wants to touch a life. Showing up where Christ wants to set someone free. Showing up where Jesus wants to demonstrate His power. I want to show up more than ever before. People’s lives, hearts, spirit, and soul, are dependant of me showing up. Think about what’s at stake if I don’t show up where Jesus wants to make Himself known to someone through my life.

Lord I want you to touch people through my life. Continue to make my heart sensitive to your spirit. Let me see people as you see them. Demonstrate your power in my life and through my life. My greatest desire Lord is to touch the world for you, that the whole world will come after You. Let me show up, let me not be to quick in life that I miss an opportunity. Let me not be concerned about man, Let me not be consumed with my life and my plans but your will and your way’s. Let me show up where you are waiting to make yourself known, In Jesus Name, amen.

HERE IT IS THE NEW BUILDING- "We Got Next"

Sunday Evening was an exciting one as CWC Manteca opened their new building. The feeling that I had when I walked into the new building was as if a new baby had been born because it has been a process of expectation for some time now. As I saw a red carpet rolled out for people to walk into the building I felt like God is rolling out the red carpet for the entire CWC family to reach the world. Here are some words from Pastor Dan concerning the new building in Manteca and CWCSJ.

"I want you to know "We Got Next". When someone is waiting to play in basketball they yell we got next. It is a statement of position & readiness. Now that Manteca has their building, "We Got Next!" We got the next miracle, the next healing, the next breakthrough!"

Below are some pics from the grand opening. The pics are from my phone so the quality is not great, gives you more of a reason to see it in person. Also if you scroll down the CWC Mission Video is posted. This video I have used already at work to show others the heart of CWC, people are impressed and challenged to come check us out feel free to share at work. You are part of big picture, a big plan, a big purpose, get ready! Be blessed, be encouraged, be challenged
"We Got Next!"

S – When the LORD began to speak by Hosea, the LORD said to Hosea: “Go, take yourself a wife of harlotry and children of harlotry, for the land has committed great harlotry by departing from the LORD.” - Hosea 1:2

O – I like how it says that the “Lord began to speak BY Hosea”. Not necessarily THROUGH Hosea, but BY him. By his actions. By what he did & what happened in his life. People probably were confused by Hosea's choice of a wife in a harlot named Gomer. But there was a purpose to all of it. God was speaking through what Hosea did.

A – I notice how symbolic and essentially poetic Hosea 1 is. From it’s style & it’s message, I understand 3 things about God:
1) God is so smart.
From the symbolic, intelligent workings of the passage & event, I see God’s amazing intellect, so detailed and always revolutionary. I just love thinking about how incredibly smart God is.
2) Because God is so smart, I must trust His plan.
I wonder how Hosea felt about taking a harlot-wife. God will ask me to do things that may be uncomfortable for me. He’ll ask me to do things that others may not understand. But I know from this story, other stories, and my story, that God never does anything just because He thinks it would be entertaining. He is always trying to accomplish something: whether it's teaching a lesson or revealing Himself, all that He does has a point! No matter how weird, confusing, or incomprehensible that thing is that God’s asked me to do, I have to do it with confidence, knowing that He has a purpose in ALL things He asks of me.
3) Because God is so smart & His plans are perfect, He will use all things for His glory.
That harlot was a harlot for a purpose. God used her greatly. This is a basic message we hear all the time, yet still holds true and amazes me every time I think of it: God uses anything, any situation, any one (even a harlot), for His glory & for His purposes. My story, my life & my struggles are going to be used for the Lord’s purposes. Period.

P – Lord, thank You for revealing more about Yourself to me. I love and admire Your intellect, I thank You that You give orders for a reason, and I praise You because You use even the junkiest junk in our lives for a divine purpose. Even when I can’t understand why You do what You do (and I usually can’t…), You have the complete picture in mind. Thank You my Lord, my God, my Friend, Forgiver, Lover, Savior. I love You.

"Defining Moments" Good Isn't Good Enough

When Nicodemus questioned Jesus about spiritual matters, Jesus gave him a brand new philosophy to ponder. You must be born again. Jesus explained that the only way to receive eternal life is to be born again spiritually by putting your trust in Him.

"Defining Moments" Pt.1 "Letting Go"

All of us experience defining moments that shape how we view life. But if those experiences lead us to believe inaccurate things about God, we'll never know intimacy with Him. This Monday July 2nd we will be starting an exciting new bible study series on "Defining Moments": What to do when you come face to face with the truth? Get ready to experience an awakening in your life, a new trust and a deeper walk with Christ in these next 8 weeks.

"My Way of Life" Journal 06-27

You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. 2 Timothy 3:10-11

Over the past few years reality shows have taken tv by storm. Shows like "Big Brother" and "Survivor" were the pioneers of this new TV era. Recently I even heard about an individual who lives with a camera on his head watching his every move, every detail of his life (except for the bathroom of course) all of it is broadcasted on the web to millions of viewers. I even became a fan of these reality shows as Tara and I got hooked on a show called "The Amazing Race" now it's "Hells Kitchen" but that's another story. One thing that I've noticed in any of these reality shows is that you eventually get to see who the real people are. No matter how charming, how good looking, how well someone speaks, no matter how people come across from the outside eventually you'll see who the person is on the inside, and that's what makes it "Reality TV". There's something about being in the middle of a deserted island, having nothing to eat for days but rice, and losing a team challenge that will reveal who you really are, and so it is with our life as well. Life is tough as the apostle Paul tells young Timothy v.12 "Everyone who desires to live a Godly life will suffer persececution", but Paul modeled the Christian life in a powerful way. It was Paul's way of life through his purpose, his faith, his patience, his love, his endurance that really made a difference in others lives. Paul's way of life spoke volumes about his relationship with Christ. And so I begin to question myself today if I were on a show like survivor, when things got really tough, when moral is low, how would "My way of life" speak to others. What does my way of life tell others about Christ living in me? Does others see Jesus in my low times? What's the first thing people think of when they think about me. "What does my way of life" say? Our mission in life is to get our way life to get as close to Christ way of living as possible.

The reason why reality TV is just as popular as it was a few years ago is because it's exactly what people are looking for. People are looking for the reality of life. People are looking and trying to find the answers to "Who am I", "Why am I", "What am I to do", "What is life truly about" they may not say it, but peoples actions, behavior, and lifestyles sure do speak it. I have a co-worker who the other day who said something to me and in no way is this bragging or boasting about myself but I believe it's Christ living in me that is making the difference through me. My co-worker said "I envy you Ant". I know my friend is hungry, I know he's searching and looking for reality, he's looking for what I have not material wise (he's got to nicer car than me, LOL) but he's looking for the reality of life. What does your way of life say today? Does your life say Christ lives in me? Does you way of living unlock hope, peace, encouragement and life in others? We are living in one of the most difficult yet opportunistic times in the history of mankind. The very reason why there is such great opposition and difficulty is the same reason why there is such a great opportunity to make a difference. Live the best life possible for Jesus and to shine His Love, His mercy, His grace, His hope in your life. Remember, "We are the salt and light of this world" Matthew 5:13,14

Lord, I know that anytime you desire to do something through me you always do something in me first. Do a work in my mind, my heart, my life. Let me live a life that speaks hope, love, encouragement and gives life to others. When the difficulties of life kick in Lord, give me the strength to hold on, and to let my way of life speak about you. Thank you Lord for your love and your plan, In Jesus name, amen.

Keep the END in Mind

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.
-Hebrews 12:1 (nlt)

Well these past few weeks have been difficult, just like Amanda said, knowing that it’s going to be the last time with your team together, knowing that it’s going to be the last time in M.C. but I could complain and cry here all I want, but the fact of the matter is that it’s time to grow up and turn the pages and enter into the new chapter of my life! (Which I am excited to start!)
But just to share with you guys about what the Lords been pressing upon my heart is these 5 little words, that I believe if we all practice them we can all reach greater heights: “KEEP THE END IN MIND” that’s it? Well yah! Just imagine with me for a second… if you knew the end result of your math test, how would you prepare yourself? If you knew the end result of a sickness, how would you take care of your body? If you knew the end result of your family (present or future), what would you change to spend more time with them? If you knew the end result for this year or the ones to come, what would you do differently? If you knew the end result of this race that we are all called to run, what would you do to finish FIRST? If you knew an end to a thing, what would you change to get there? And what would you keep to stay there? Remember “KEEP THE END IN MIND” I know this race gets hard and very strenuous, but make the finish line visible. Starting a race is a good thing, but finishing is even better. I love what the word of God says in Ecclesiastes 7:8 (msg.) “Endings are better than beginnings…”

KEEP THE END IN MIND
-Santz

[hey yall on a side note keep Ant in your prayers this week, a big opportunity has arose for him to speak i know he's going to tear it up, but lets support him in our prayers]

Time to Say Goodbye

Wow. I can't believe this year went by so quickly. Last night, it hit me hard. It would be my last day of school as a Master's Student. It would be my last Bible Study as a Master's Student. It would be my last prayer time as a Master's Student. I'm not one to cry a lot, but I'm not at all ashamed to say that there were many tears shed last night, mostly on my part!
As I reflect on this year, there have been many failures, but also many victories. Although I'm tempted to look only at the failures, I take in both the good and bad, and I choose to learn from it all.
A certain word kept coming up in my mind this week, and Pastor Nick said it last night in Bible Study: "cleave". Now, most of us know this word under the reference of "a man must leave his parents and cleave to his wife." (Eph. 5:31) Leave and cleave, right? But this verse obviously does not and cannot apply to me right now. So still, I wondered why that word kept coming up... so I looked it up. In both the original Greek and common English, it means to "join one's self closely, adhere to, STICK to, GLUE to. Become strongly involved with or emotionally attatched to." Duh! I have to CLEAVE to God right now. I'm in a time of change, of movement, even of instability. BUT if I cleave onto something that is steady and strong, I can't be rocked.
1 Corinthians 6:17 says that "he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him."
Although I feel unsure and unsteady, if I glue myself onto the One who IS sure and steady, I can't go wrong. That is my mission right now. To learn to truly cleave and NOT leave. I'm so glad God placed this word in my heart and my head - He caused me to learn what His will is for me right now.
I want to encourage you - if you're unsure, if you're nervous, unstable, shaky, or scared, begin to cleave yourself to God. Not to other THINGS, or other people who will not help you focus, but will in fact distract you. I've recently found that things you need most from God can never be replaced any person. You must learn, along with me, how to grab onto God, connect with Him, and not let go for anything.
I love you all, and thank you for being there for me and with me this year. It was a battle, but having support and encouragement from my Fremont family has meant so much. Thanks again, and God Bless!

Remember to cleave onto Him!
- Amanda Mikk
Isaiah 59:19

Prophetic Evangelism Conference was awesome!

Im taking a night off of regular journaling tonight to journal about the Prophetic Evangelism conference that we had this past weekend. I had an awesome time and learned a whole lot, unlearned some things too.

Saturday afternoon I went out to eat with Pastor Kris Valloton and Sean smith and the Pastors from CWC. The topic of conversation at the table was amazing. I soaked up as much as possible from these men of God. I was amazed, humbled, and spiritually hungry all at the same time. To hear the insight and revelation spoken in such a short amount of time was almost to much too handle. I watched Pastor Dan intently as he asked questions. Pastor Dan totally took on the approach of the student. To watch my Pastor, my mentor, my accountability, my teacher become the student before my very eyes ministered volumes to me, I'll never forget it.

By Saturday afternoon for the dinner break, I hung out with Amanda and Santz, we had a great time. We kind of shared some frustrations from each other because we had yet to receive a word from the Lord. Later the Lord spoke to me in the mall about how I did not need a person to receive a word from Him and that the source is the same, but that's another story, back to this one. I had been dealing with some fear all weekend, and it seems like every time that we have people who minister in the prophetic I'm looking for a word to say not to go to Hawaii. Friday night there were two nuggets from the pulpit that really stuck to me, the first is how to know what your called to. Pastor Kris said "you will always feel fear by what you are called to" and that is so true. Fear is something that I battle with every single day to the point that it seems like it's easy to back out from the dream. Secondly Pastor Kris said that we have been created to live in the Glory of God and to bring Glory to God. We are created in God's image and that faith is spelled R.I.S.K, there is no failure in the kingdom of God when we bring Glory to His name. Even though these were powerful words that I know I needed, it came from the pulpit and I was looking for a direct word. Amanda, Santz and myself all kind of had the same frustration, we were looking for something deeper. Saturday night we had a time of impartation with the Bethel Student and Sean Smith. I was looking for a word all weekend either from Sean Smith or Kris Valloton but it went totally different. What I received reminded me of when Elijah was in the cave and he was looking for a word from God, the word was not in the wind, or the earthquake but in a still small quiet voice and this is what happened to me on Saturday evening. I was praying at the altar and a little Chinese woman, one of the students from Bethel approached me and she begin to pray. I remember the woman's voice was so tiny, the words so small, but powerful and exactly what I needed to hear. The woman said something like this, “you have fear and it needs to be broken”. “God is with you” "Do not fear failure". “You are father to your children but will also be a father to many, a father to children on the street”. She said, it's a "Joy to work with the Lord". The last part really shook me. It's a joy to work with the Lord. It just reaffirmed everything, it reminded me that God is with me, that I am partnering up with God. I received this same word from God about a 5 weeks ago when journaling about Gideon. God partnered with Gideon to do a mighty work. I not only work for the Lord but He works with me. Here’s a good example lately at work I’ve been frustrated because a lot has been put on my plate, things that I don’t understand, things that I’ve never done and I’m all by myself in terms of getting the job done. In other words I work for my job but nobody is working with me. God say’s not only do you work for me but I will work with you, side by side, I’ll show you how to do things, I’ll provide the strength, I’ll provide the understanding, it was amazing. I even met one of the students who is from Maui his name is John and his wife's name is Barbara, they want to hook up later on. It's a trip because John has the same vision that I have for all Islands. I can't quite understand the call of God, how He would want to use someone like me but I know this, He's given me a tremendous love and huge dream to touch the world.

I had an awesome time this weekend, thank you Lord for the privilege to serve you and know you. Continue your work in my life teach me all that you desire for me to become and anoint me for prophetic evangelism I pray in Jesus Name, amen

"You are what you store"

The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. Matthew 12:35

Jesus gives a lesson on the words of our mouth and He say's what's in our heart comes out of our mouth. One of the best mirrors of our character are the words we speak. There have been times when I've said something I regret later and in those moments a clear picture is revealed of who I really am. Have you ever thought to yourself "I said that?"
"That came out of my mouth?" Sometimes I've even missed what I said, and it's only been by what others have pointed out that I've realized the wrong words I've used. Talk about not thinking before I speak.

You are what you store, if you store up good things then good will proceed out of your mouth. The flip side is if you store evil things then evil things will come out. Store up good by praying, asking for wisdom in difficult situations, memorize and apply scripture. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1 Have you examined the words that you speak lately? What are you storing? What is it that needs to change? You words are not the problem that's just a by product of what's been stored? In other words it's not a mouth issue, it's a character issue, it's a heart issue focus on these areas.

Lord I know I mess up at times saying the wrong things, the wrong things at the wrong time, and saying things in the wrong tone, but today I focus not on my mouth but on my character, on my heart on what I'm storing in my life. I want goodness to proceed out of what I say, deal with my heart and my character Lord. In Jesus Name -amen

Who's Your Daddy?

Hey everyone! These past weeks, I’ve decided to pick up a book I had started a long time ago called "Captivating". Yes, it’s a “woman’s” book. But I found a principle in this book that is applicable to anyone who has 1) an earthly father, and 2) a heavenly Father, which is all of us. Here is an excerpt from the book to give you an idea of where I’m heading:

“I have heard many times that what we at first believe about God, the Father, directly comes from what we know of and have experienced from our earthly dads. I first heard this from a pulpit as a young Christian and in my typical, teachable fashion, thought, 'How stupid'. Not that my pastor was stupid, but that the idea itself was ludicrous. Of course, my own dad was not God. Everybody knew that. But later, as I heard other people speak of God the Father, I often heard in their voices a softness, a tenderness, perhaps even a childlikeness that was foreign to me. When I began to hear others praying to “Daddy” or “Papa,” I knew they were speaking to “Someone” I did not know.”

How do you know God? Do you see Him as a loving, caring Dad, or as a far-away Discipliner? Think about it: in what ways do you place a box around God based on your experiences with your own dad? Was your earthly father hard-to-please? Distant? Cold-hearted? Uninterested? Was he even there? Did you feel like a burden to him, or not important enough for him to notice you? Whatever it is, we all have (or had) preconceived ideas about God based on our earthly fathers. I challenge you to begin to seek Him out as your loving Daddy, knowing that He sees you as an important part of this world. In fact, this big, giant, vast world would not be the same WITHOUT you! Ask Him to remove the limits you’ve placed on Him. He will be faithful to show you what they are, help you remove them, and bring healing! Once you’re able to embrace God as your Dad, get ready for a new level with your Father!

Be blessed, challenged, & excited!
~ Amanda

Thank You

“…Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are those happy who deal so treacherously?” –Jeremiah 12:1

This past week I had an unexpected visit at my real house by some of my old friends since middle school. We had always been one of the tightest cliques but as we started growing each and every one of us went our separate ways. I myself chose masters commission, and I don’t regret it. But I’ve always wondered what had become of them. I really am horrible at communication, so I never kept close tabs on my friends of old, especially because I really thought they could not profit or add any value to me. After this unexpected visit I wondered what it was all about, I still don’t know why. I went on “My Space” and just wondered what they are up to. They all seem so happy, some starting their families, most of them finishing school, others having a great job. They all seem like they either have it together or they are doing what they always wanted to do, they’re having fun. I started having these thoughts about, “what would my life be if I would’ve just stayed in my old atmosphere?” envious thoughts telling myself, “look at them they seem so complete” I don’t know what it was, but I really had to take a survey of my life and see where I’m at. Not a lot of people have done what I’ve done, I’m still young and have experienced both sides of this world, and honestly why would I want to go back? Yes I miss my friends, because they were and are a big part of who I’ve become, but now I’ve found people who not only are friends but are OHANA, family. Because one thing I’ve learned, “In life there are no friends just family!” and so far my family is the main part of my life that has stuck with me through out everything, when I couldn’t believe they believed, when I couldn’t smile they smiled, when I couldn’t dream they dreamed. So I guess what I want to tell you all, my FAMILY is, THANK YOU! (sorry i can't make it out there as often, but you are all on my heart daily, LUV YALL)

The Best Question Ever Was Awesome!

Well, last night concluded the six week study on "The Best Question Ever" and what a journey it's been. I want to thank all of you that participated and all of you that shared your hearts and stories in the last six weeks. Rembember "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding Proverbs 9:10. The Message version put's the same verse like this: "Skilled living gets its start in the Fear-of-God, insight into life from knowing a Holy God." To get the most out of life, we need wisdom and it all begins with our ability to trust God and to submit our lives to Him. Pastor Dan put's it this way "If you have more Jesus, you'll have more wisdom". How trememdously important Wisdom is for without we spend life rather than investing into it. Invest into your future seek out the Wisdom of the Lord. Although we have just concluded a study I feel like a whole new realm has opened up in my life, and a hunger for doing the wise thing and living out His plan for my life has increased. My challenge to you is to pick up the book " The Best Question Ever" keep it in your personal library for a refresher. Secondly set apart sometime weekly to study the book of Proverbs. Remember let God hold the paintbrush for your life, don't settle for abstract living. Allow God to create the masterpiece that He see's in you.

Much Luv
-ant

Remain Unnamed

Hey everyone, just wanted to share a journal with you that I wrote this week. It's short and sweet, but it stuck with me, and reminded me to stay humble! I hope that it blesses and challenges you as well.

S – “...that the LORD sent a prophet to the children of Israel, who said to them, “Thus says the LORD God of Israel: ‘I brought you up from Egypt and brought you out of the house of bondage;” – judges 6:8

O – The Lord sent “a prophet”. A prophet. This prophet remains unnamed.

A – God sent a prophet to the people because He had a word for them. But this prophet wasn’t a person of any reputation. He didn’t even make history, or get his name in the Bible. At first I thought, “C'mon, God. If youre gonna use this guy, at least give his name a little space of fame in the Word.”
We always want all the credit for what we do. We want our name in lights, we want the fame, and we want everyone to know just how great we are. This prophet was a man used by the very God who created all things, yet was unnamed for what he did. In fact, it doesn’t matter what we do because it’s not about us. No matter what happens, I have to remember that what I do is only for GODS glory not mine!

P – Lord, remind me to be humble, and remind me that its not about me!! Thank you, I love you!

Be blessed everyone!

- Amanda

"The Best Decision Ever"

This Monday we will finalize our study on "The Best Question Ever". It's one thing to know the wise thing to do, but it's another thing to actually live it out. The other day I was challenged in my journaling about receiving the word of God. You see, we journal from the word of God, we listen to the man of God, preach the word of God, and yet sometimes are life can become satisfied with just hearing and listening. Hearing and listening does not mean that I've totally received it. The Lord challenged me, "to receive His word is to live it out". To receive wisdom is not just to know what to do, but to actually do it. Make the best question ever a lifestyle, to make wise decisions in every arena of life. Pastor Dan say's "Wisdom without discipline is useless, we know what we should do, but do not have the discipline to do it." Check out the powerful clip from "The Best Decision Ever" below.

See ya on Monday

God Bless

"Knowing What You Don't Know"

What should I do when I don't know the wise thing to do? Proverbs 4:5 "...Get wisdom, get understanding...". The challenge in Proverbs 4:5 is to get wisdom, meaning: obtain, possess, to go after understanding. Many of our regrets in life are due to our pursuit of wisdom or lack there of, especially from outside counsel. Instead of leaning on the wise thing to do we lean on our emotions, we tell ourselves, "But I love him!", "Just look at her!", "three hundred Horsepower!", "No Money down". Emotions can make wisdom hard to see so we usually jump two feet in (actually head first) and the results can be full of regret, guilt, and pain. We can fool ourselves all we want, we may have an answer for everything but, that doesn't mean it's the wise thing to do. The bottom line is eventually we all bump up against our limitations. When I was sixteen years old I worked for a deptartment store. The store gave me a credit card, and I went SHOPPING! Later when I was 18 years old I got another credit card thinking I needed more credit. I didn't know what I was doing. I was buying things that I could not afford. One day I woke up and realized my limitation, not only could I not pay the bills with my salary, I did not have wisdom to properly manage money. I wish I had asked for help the very first day I got approved for my first credit card. The worst part of it all, I had nothing to show for any of my credit card charges. "If I had only known then what I know now." Haven't we all said that before,"If I only knew, then things would of turned out so much different?" Andy Stanley say's "Wise people know when they don't know and they are not afraid to go to those who do." We all want successful paths in life, the key is wisdom and when you don't have it in a particular arena, go after it. Proverbs 15:22 NAS "Without consultation, plans are frustrated, But with many counselors they succeed." Check out the clip below from "A Little Help from our Friends" next weeks topic from "The Best Question Ever"

See Ya Next Monday

God Bless

"Time Bandits"

"I wish I had more time" "When I can find the time" "I'll try to buy some time" You've heard these terms before, or maybe you've even said them yourself. The truth is, we all wish we had more time. Time is not something that you can get back. Once time is gone, it's gone. The word teaches the importance of time because time is life. "...For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away."James 4:14

Today's culture chooses to deal with time the same way we do with money, we spend it, and can spend it foolishly. People who use their money wisely are the ones who invest it. We must also do the same with time. We must invest our time in order to get the best out of life. Everyday we have a decision to spend our time on the "foolish things", on "the urgent temporary things", or we can invest our time in the truly important things, the areas of our lives that matter most.

Look, you can "over do" many things in life. You can over workout, over eat, over achieve etc. but if there is one thing that you can't over do is "Over live" You have one shot at life so we must live it wisely, stewarding what God has given us and making the most of it. Next week's bible study will cover the area of "What is the wise thing to do?" in our time. Check out the clip below from "Time Bandits"

-God Bless

"Dont Mix it Up"

"...man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." Deut. 8:3

How many times have a I gone going through a desert situation in life, a place of scarceness, a place of hunger, fatigue, even frustration. It wasn't by the provision alone that sustained the Israelites for forty years in the desert it was the Word of God. I know in my life I've confused provision with the word at times. I've looked for an event, for a blessing for something physical to keep me going but truly what I need is something to help me spiritually. The spiritual part of our life is the most important so I need to make it priority but so many times I pay attention to the physical man "what I don't have", "what I need", "what I don't see". What the spiritual man needs is the word. The word helps us grow, it reveals God and His plan for my life and this is what I truly need when going through a desert situation.

Provision is part of the covenant. God is our provider no matter what, He will do it, don't just look for provision for the physical man but look for a word for the spiritual man. The provision fell from the sky for Israelites and they collected it daily, little effort was involved. The word is different you have to look for it, dig for it and seek it out daily much effort is involved for when "we seek we shall find". When you receive the word of God into your life, apply it, live it out and hide it in your heart to remain obedient to it. "Materialism, which gives priority to material needs and objects, is obviously the opposite of spirituality"

Lord thank you for speaking to my heart and life today. Let my life be attentive to every word that comes from your mouth. For it's your word that truly gives me life. In Jesus Name. -amen

Welcome to the Fremont Bible Study Blog

Hey Ohana,

This site will have weekly information regarding the Fremont Bible Study. Bookmark this page and visit it often. Feel free to leave a journal entry or even a prayer request in the comments section. Sorry we have not had bible study the past two weeks but we are excited and ready to go for next week. Below is a trailer for next weeks topic called "Living on the Edge" I believe it's one of the most challenging and important topics of the whole series. Plan to make it out. Check out the clip below.

Up and coming events:

Family Night is coming soon
We are looking to have another family night coming up soon. It may be a movie night with an inspiring movie called "Facing the Giants" or we are thinking of a Friday night Bowling Night. I'll keep you posted. Whatever we do, I'm sure we will all have a great time.

See ya on Monday Night

Much luv & God Bless

Ant and Fam