My Random Thoughts on Life

After a Year of Silence

2010-08-27T03:11:00.002-04:00

So, it's been over a year since I wrote anything here...well, hopefully that is going to change. I will explain my future plans for this blog in a later post, but for now, I want to talk about a song that has become my favorite: "The Stand."

The first verse talks about how God, before the creation of the world, held eternity in His hand. In four lines, is expresses His awesome power...how He spoke creation into existance.

The second verse talks about how Christ is more powerful than any of my failures...how He boar a cross for me...my sin on His shoulder. This makes me want to cry...I am a sinful person, yet "... he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed." (Is. 53). My God took my failures upon Himself.

This leads us to the Bridge. What can we say or do with this? what is our respondes? It is to offer our hearts to God. They belong to Him!!!

Verse three says that we now walk with God in His salvation. That He is alive in my life, declaring HIs promises!

The Chorus is screaming that we are abandoned to Him. We stand in awe of the God who gave up everything for us!

What is our response to these truths, to God's grace? To live a life of thankfulness and surrender that causes to want to grow in our spiritual lives. Jerry Bridges wrote in "Growing Your Faith," "Along with a sense of profound gratitude to God for HIs grace, we should be motivated to grow and obey God by a deep sense of reverence for Him."

That is my prayer, that I will grow in Christ...something that I have not been diligent in. I ask, no I plead for your prayers that I will grow. In return, I will pray for you, that you will grow. Sanctification is a process that will not end until we are perfect in Christ in Glory. Brothers and Sisters, we need to pray for each other's growth!

Soli Deo Gloria,

Josh

Lyrics to "The Stand":
You stood before creation
Eternity in your hand
You spoke the earth into motion
My soul now to stand

You stood before my failure
And carried the cross for my shame
My sin weighed upon your shoulders
My soul now to stand

So what could I say?
And what could I do?
But offer this heart, Oh God
Completely to you

So I'll walk upon salvation
Your spirit alive in me
This life to declare your promise
My soul now to stand

So what could I say?
And what could I do?
But offer this heart, Oh God
Completely to you

I'll stand
With arms high and heart abandoned
In awe of the one who gave it all
I'll stand
My soul Lord to you surrendered
All I am is yours

Lighthouse skit

2009-07-15T15:38:00.003-04:00

This is a skit we did in Manatoulin, I finally got it edited, so enjoy!

Stealing an idea

2009-07-14T19:17:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I am stealing this from Rachel, but, hey, it's a good idea.

ABC About You Questions:

A - AVAILABLE: Yes, But God has given me a peace about it.
B - BIRTHDAY: May 6, 1988
C - CRUSHING ON: trying to figure that one out
D - DRINK YOU LAST HAD: Mt. Dew
E - EASIEST PERSON TO TALK TO: My Mom
F - FAVORITE SONG: Right now probably Mighty to Save
G - GUMMY BEARS OR GUMMY WORMS: Really don't care
H - HOMETOWN: Eastpointe
IN LOVE WITH: My Savior
J - JUGGLE: Sometimes
K-KILLED SOMEONE: Thought about...jk
L - LONGEST CAR RIDE: Bus ride-17 hours
M- MILKSHAKE FLAVOR: Strawberry
N - NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: Two brothers
O - ONE WISH: to take back a major regret in my life
P - PERSON YOU CALLED LAST: Rachel, but she called me first, so I am not sure if that counts
Q- QUICKIE: Unfortunately, I know the meaning of this and it is an emphatic NO
R- REASON TO SMILE: because "My Savior Lives, My Savior Loves, My Savior is always there for me!"
S - SONG YOU LAST HEARD: "Run" by Hillsong
T - TIME YOU WOKE UP: 5:45 am
U - UNDERWEAR COLOR: blue
V - VEGETABLE(S): not sure what they are looking for
W - WORST HABIT: not sure, ask my friends
X - X-RAYS YOU'VE HAD: many of my teeth, and my foot
Y – YOYOS ARE: Can be fun and dangerous...don't ask
Z - ZODIAC SIGN: don't know

Random Questions About You:

Spell your name without vowels: Jsh Sctt
Your favorite number: 17-a lot happened when I was 17
What color do you wear most?: Blue and Red...unfortunately...lol
Least favorite color?: matters the context
What are you listening to?: NCIS on TV
Are you happy with your life right now?: I am in love with my Savior, so yeah...
What is your favorite class in school?: I love any history class and probably Survey of Mass Comm
When do you start back at school/college?: September-hopefully
Are you outgoing?: YES, except when I am really really tired
Favorite pair of shoes?: I love wearing flip flops if I have to wear something
Where do you wish you were right now? Manitoulin Island

Can you dance?: I am white and baptist...need I say more.
Can you tie a cherry stem with your mouth?: Never tried
Can you whistle?: monotone
Write with both hands?: I can barely write with one...lol
Cross your eyes?: mhmm
Walk with your toes curled?: yep

THE DO'S:

Do you believe there is life on other planets?: where do you think I came from...lol
Do you believe in miracles?: God intervention in our lives
Do you believe in magic?: Depends on the definition, but I guess so
Love at first sight?: no
Do you believe in Satan?: Yes, my enemy who would love to see me fail
Do you believe in Santa?: Never did, never will
Do you know how to swim?: Yes
Do you like roller coasters?: Not really
Do you think you could handle the stuff they eat on those reality shows?: Depends

THE HAVES:

Have you ever been on a plane?: Oh yeah, many times
Have you ever asked someone out?: no
Have you ever been asked out by someone?: no
Have you ever been to the ocean? yep
Have you ever painted your nails?: Does a Sharpie count?

THE WHATS:

What is the temperature outside?: According to my Dashboard, it's 73
What radio station do you listen to: when I do it's either 103.5, 1500, or 760
What was the last restaurant you ate: McDonalds
What was the last thing you bought?: Something from the vending machine at work
was the last thing on TV you watched?: NCIS

THE WHOS:

Who was the last person you IM'd?: Michelle
Who was the last person you took a picture of: My Nieces
Who was the last person you said I love you to? Bethany and Brianna

HAPPY SECTION.

Are you a happy person?: only by God's grace
What can make you happy?: God is the only true joy-giver
Do you wish you were happier?: Not really, I guess I will never be able to be 100% happy until glory
Can music make you happy?: Very much so

LOVE SECTION.

How many times have you had your heart broken?: disappointed maybe a couple times, but broken, none really
Have you ever loved someone so much that you'd die for them?: That is how I feel about my family and friends

LOOK AT ME. NO SERIOUSLY CHECK ME OUT.

What is your current hair color?: Brown
Current piercings?: none
Eye color?:Hazel

HAVE YOU EVER

Been to jail: does a tour count?
Mooned someone: What happens in the guys room stays in the guys room...enough said
Ran away from home: thought about it once, than reason kicked in
Laughed so hard you cried: once or twice :)
Cried in school: since my home was my school, yes
Thrown up in a store: Can't remember, but maybe
Wanted to be a model: no
Cheated on someone: no
Done something really stupid that you still laugh at today: umm...Hart Plaza anyone
Seen a dead body: yes

THIS OR THATPepsi or Coke: Pepsi
McDonald's or Burger King: McDonalds
Single or Group Dates: never been on either
Chocolate or Vanilla: Ice Cream-Vanilla, candy-Chocolate
Strawberries or Blueberries: Strawberries
Meat or Veggies: Meat.
TV or Movie: Depends on my mood, but TV for the most part
Guitar or Drums?: I like both, but solo, guitar
Chinese or Mexican: Mexican
Cheerios or Corn Flakes: Cheerios
Cake or Pie: Cake
MTV or VH1: neither

New post!

2009-06-12T23:25:00.003-04:00

Okay, sorry for not posting in like forever. Been a very hectic since I posted last.

Found this youtube video that is really good, why don't we have more Representatives in Congress like this?

Funny 911 Calls

2009-04-18T21:17:00.003-04:00

Some people are so stupid. But at least we get a laugh out of it:

Ok, time for some humor-at least for me

2009-04-18T21:08:00.002-04:00

Ok, I find this video hilarious. Maybe everyone else wont find it as funny, because I admit, I have a weird, geeky sense of humor. But I will post it anyways. Enjoy!

Soli Deo Gloria

A Song that has been encouraging me

2009-04-15T23:10:00.006-04:00

So, I have been transferred back to my old shop. A transfer that I did not want, but nonetheless happened. I was disappointed because I really like the shop I was at, but God has me where I am at for a reason.

Well, I was listening "Today is the Day" by Lincoln Brewster, and the phrase:

Today is the day You have made

I will rejoice and be glad in it

And I won`t worry about tomorrow

I`m giving you my fears and sorrows

Where you lead me I will follow

I'm trusting in what you say

was just really encouraging to me. God has lead me to where I am at, and He will take care of me. God has made everyday, and I will rejoice in it!

Here is a video of Lincoln Brewster singing "Today is the Day."

Soli Deo Gloria

Cardboard Testimonies

2009-04-12T22:16:00.003-04:00

I was watching some of these Cardboard Testimonies on Youtube. I am going to warn you, you may cry. But it shows how great our God is!

Soli Deo Gloria

2,000 Years Ago-My Savior Lives

2009-04-12T20:03:00.003-04:00

"My Savior loves, my Savior LIVES, my Savior is always there for me..." My Savior conquered death, securing my salvation. He suffered, He died, He rose. If He did not rose, my faith would be in vain, but He did rise; and my faith is not in vain! I can place my trust in Him, and He will not fail me!

Jesus fulfilled prophecy from the Old Testament, even all the way back to Genesis 3. God said to the serpent that the woman's offspring will crush his head, but he will bruise his heal. Christ heal was bruised 2,ooo years ago; but 2,ooo years ago, the serpent's head was crushed! Satan no longer has any power over me, because JESUS CHRIST IS RISEN!!!!

Soli Deo Gloria

2,000 Years Ago

2009-04-09T23:43:00.002-04:00

Two thousand years ago, a man was executed, a man who had truly done nothing wrong. And while people have been executed throughout history, and not all have been guilty of the crime they were executed for, He was the only one who truly had done nothing wrong. That man is Jesus Christ. However, on that day, He did not die alone. On either side of Him was a thief. These men were guilty; but only one saw his own guilt. Jesus died for that man, and for all who will believe. He took the guilt of that thief, so that the thief can spend eternity worshiping God!

Jesus came to this sin-cursed world, was surrounded by sinners, died surrounded by sinners, why? So that God can be glorified! That is why we are saved, so that God can be glorified. So, what do we do with that, we put Christ on display and point others to Him!

Two thousand years ago, my savior came, my savior died, so that I can glorify God! Isn't that an amazing thought. I need to put my savior on display, and I fail everyday. But one day, I will not fail, I will be able to put Christ on display without any sin! I can't wait for that day!

Soli Deo Gloria

What is friendship?

2009-04-04T19:00:00.002-04:00

What is true friendship? We say we have friends, but do we? Here in America, we use the term "friend" almost too loosely. We say "Oh, that is my friend." But, what do we know about that person? Do we know their likes and dislikes, do we know their struggles, their passions, what makes them laugh, what makes them cry? Are we there for them when they need someone to talk to, or just someone to listen? Are we willing to die for them? Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." So, do we have friends. or just acquaintances?

In French, the word for friend is "ami," and a French person will not call a person, "mon ami"-"my friend" unless they were really close and knew each other well. I am happy to say that I do have several friends I can call "mes amis." Friends are a gift from God, it is only by His grace that we can have friends. And in having friends, we have a great responsibility to point them to Christ, and to make sure that the friendships are bringing glory to God.

So, those are just some things I have been thinking about recently. Sorry about not posting in a while, every time I would go to post, nothing came to mind, now something has :).

Soli Deo Gloria

Reflection on James 1:5-8

2009-02-22T21:05:00.005-05:00

Okay, after not posting anything for a while, I decided to continue my reflection on James 1. So, verses five to eight:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."

What is wisdom? According to dictionary.com, wisdom is "knowledge of what is true or right coupled with judgment as to action." So, wisdom is applying knowledge correctly. As Christians, we have a great responsibility to apply the knowledge we have in a way that will bring glory to God.

So, where does wisdom come from? From God. And the amazing thing is, God love to give it freely without chastising us for asking. Now, it is easy to know that academically, but actually believing it, that is the hard part. That is why James says to ask in faith. When we ask God for something, we must have faith that God will give it to us. Now where does faith come from? According to Ephesians 2, it comes from God. So, if both wisdom and faith comes from God, we need to ask Him for both. However, God has given us enough faith and knowledge to be able to ask for wisdom without doubting. I would go as far to say if we ask God for wisdom, but doubt, we are sinning. When we doubt that God will do good, we are double-mined, a person with with two minds torn between God and the world.

Now, why would James talk about wisdom right after talking about trials? It can almost seem like a complete change of subject. However, part of getting through trials is having wisdom to know what to do with those trials. So, when we are going through a trial, let us ask God to give us the wisdom to properly apply the knowledge gleaned from that trial; because it is part of counting it all joy when we meet trials of various kinds.

So, those are just a few thoughts I had about these verses.

Soli Deo Gloria

A Really Cool Music Website

2009-01-22T21:42:00.007-05:00

For all of you music lovers, I thought you would like to know about http://free.napster.com/.

It is an awesome site where you can stream a whole lot of music and can choose to look them up my artist, album, or track. For me personally, they even have Hillsong, Chris Tomlin, Steven Curtis Chapman, David Croward, Celtic Woman, and many, many more.

Soli Deo Gloria

A reflection on James 1:2-3

2009-01-19T22:58:00.003-05:00

Recently James 1 has been a big part of my life, so here are some thoughts I have on the chapter.

Verses two and three

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Something someone told me recently when I was venting about something, "Congratulations, God won't give you more than you can handle." We need to count it joy when we face trials. Facing trials is part of the Christian life. And why do we face trials? To refine our faith. Recently I heard the illustration of trials being like the refining process of gold. In order for gold to be refined, it must be heated; however, if it is heated too much, it will evaporate. That is how God is with us. He will not allow us to go through more trials than we can handle.

An example we see is Job. When Job was tempted, Satan had to ask God permission to tempt Job. So, in order for us to be tempted, Satan must first ask God. And when Job was tempted, what was his response? "The Lord gives and the Lord takes away, Blessed be the name of of the Lord." We need to rejoice in trials. Now, that is easier said than done. But, God grace is enough!!!

Now, another reason for trials is to produce steadfastness. And steadfastness, or it could also be translated "perseverance," is so that we can be more like Christ, perfect. Now, we will never be perfect; however, we can, as Paul puts it, "strive for the masteries." Also, so we can be laking in nothing. Christ needs to be our everything. He needs to complete us, so that we are complete. And trials bring us closer to Christ.

So, those are some random thoughts on James 1:2-3. In future post, I will continue my thoughts on the rest of the chapter.

Soli Deo Gloria

What have I been up to.

2009-01-06T21:49:00.009-05:00

Ok, wow, I have not posted anything in like forever. So, what has happened since then? Glad you asked. Over Christmas I went down to Rockford, Ill. to spend Christmas with my family who live down there. It was such a wonderful time, Jason, my oldest brother, hosted Christmas at his house. His two oldest, Bethany & Briannia, were so cute on that morning. As we were waiting to open presents, they came up to as I was sitting in a recliner and said, "Uncle Josh, can I sit on your lap because I love you." Well, that of course just melted my heart (my nieces have a way of doing that to me) and they sat on my lap until it was time to open presents.

After that, we came back on Sunday, I spent two days home and than left for The Break at Lake Ann. I went up with nine other people from my church. We had such a great time up there.

Bobby Huteck and I took second place in doubles foosball tournament. And I was able to get a free t-shirt from it.

We also were able to enjoy a New Years Eve concert by Audio Adrenaline, which was amazing. On Thursday night, there was a Praise and Worship service that was amazing. One song we sang was "Mighty to Save" which is one of my all-time favorite worship songs.

So, that is a brief overview of what I have been up to. In future post I will go into what Tony Tice was speaking about and how that impacted my life.

Soli Deo Gloria

End of the Semester~A Reflection

2008-12-16T00:54:00.004-05:00

Well, tomorrow, or should I say today, are my finals. This semester has gone by so fast, but looking back, a lot has happened.

This is the time when I start to wonder, what did I learn? How can this be used in my life? I think of the classes I have had; some I enjoyed, others I hated. But, over all, I believe that I am more learned now then I was back in September.

And who gets the praise for that? God does! God is the one who gave me the ability to learn. Now with the knowledge that He has so graciously allowed me to obtain, I have a greater responsibility with. Luke chapter twelve tells us that to whom much is given, much is required. My prayer now is that the knowledge that I have gain will be used to bring glory to God. Let my prayer be that of John the Baptist's, "He must increase, but I must decrease."

May the knowledge that I have not exalt myself, but exalt the one who is worthy of all praise!

Soli Deo Gloria

My Screenplay "Salvation" Act I

2008-12-10T23:20:00.005-05:00

EXT: England, training field. Daytime

Lieutenant John Morgan and Sergeant Tony Creshaw are observing the troops training. They are standing on top of hill, looking down at the obstacle course. From there they can see all three squads in Lt. Morgan’s platoon.

MORGAN

They have come along way since Camp Toccoa.

CRESHAW

Indeed they have. I think they are ready for anything the Jerries can throw at them. However, I am concerned about 2nd Squad. Sgt. Baker is too indecisive.

MORGAN

(nodding in agreement)

That has been one of my concerns as well. I am thinking about promoting Corporal Johnson to sergeant and giving him 2nd Squad.

CRESHAW

I think he will do well, the men will be able to adapt well to him, after all, they are Airborne. What will happen to Sgt. Baker?

MORGAN

Major Scott is looking for someone to replace Sgt. Moen as company supply sergeant. He fell and hit his head, Doc thinks he has a concussion, and he can’t jump in that condition.

CRESHAW

(nodding)

I think Sgt. Baker will do well as supply sergeant.

MORGAN

(looks at his watch)

Oh wow, it’s already time for dinner. After dinner, come by my office, I want to talk to you about something.

CRESHAW

(salutes as Morgan leaves)

Yes sir.

INT: Morgan’s office. Evening

Morgan is sitting at his desk doing some paper work. His office is small, and the only furniture is his desk and two plain wooden chairs. Creshaw knocks on the door.

MORGAN

(looks up)

Enter!

Creshaw enters the office and stands at attention.

CRESHAW

Sgt. Anthony Creshaw reporting as ordered, sir.

MORGAN

Tony, how many times have I told you, there is no need to be so formal when we are not in front of the men. Please, sit down.

Creshaw sits down in one of the chairs in front of Morgan’s desk.

MORGAN

I am just filling out the paper work to transfer Sgt. Baker and promote Cpl. Johnson.

CRESHAW

I believe that is a wise move. But why do I have the feeling that that is not the only reason you asked me here.

MORGAN

(leans back in his chair)

You are always very preceptive. Yes, there is another matter I wish to speak to you about. The family that I am assigned to live with is what they call “born-again Christians.” I remember you calling yourself that when we talked about religion back at Camp Toccoa. Anyway, they recently asked me what I believe, I told them that I was an atheist. They shared some religious stuff with me. But, they just seem to have so much peace, how can that be after all the suffering they have seen?

CRESHAW

(Thinks for a second)

Well, as I told you back in the States, it’s God. II Corinthians 1 tells us that God is a God of comfort and compassion to those who believe in Him and make Him Lord of their lives.

MORGAN

But isn’t all that religion stuff man made. How can we know there is a God?

CRESHAW

L.T., look at the world around us. How can that just happen without someone making it? Take the chair you are sitting on, someone had to make it. The same is true with the world around us.

MORGAN

Yes, but I can go to the factory and see the maker make it. I can’t see God, and I can’t see Him make the world.

There is a knock on the door, and upon permission to enter, Cpl. Hall, Major Scott’s runner, enters.

HALL

Sir, Major Scott needs the company for an emergency meeting at H.Q. It’s time.

MORGAN

Thank you Corporal. Tell Major Scott we will be there A.S.A.P.

Cpl. Hall snaps to attention and leaves. Morgan and Creshaw stand up to leave.

MORGAN

Well, see you on the plane.

CRESHAW

Yes sir. I would like to continue our talk later.

MORGAN

Well, that may take place in France.

FADE IN

INT: In the plane over France. Late night/early morning

The sound of the engines kill any conversations that may happen. Some men look nervous, others sleep, others just sit in silence. Anti-aircraft fire opens up. Other planes start to go down in flames. The pilot does his best to keep the plane steady under all the flak. The plane start to shake and move all over. Red light comes on, Sgt. Rance, the jump master, stands up.

RANCE

(signals with his hands and yells)

Stand up! Hook on! Count off!

The men count off. The green light comes on.

RANCE

(signals with his hands and yells)

Go, go, go!

The men jump out. Anti-aircraft fire can be seen for miles around. The white tracer rounds stand you in sharp contrast to the night sky. The fire from crashing transport planes also stick out. Parachutes are opening all around. The trees and fields below that, at first, look so small, now are getting bigger.

FADE OUT

Why I am a Calvinist

2008-11-11T16:13:00.013-05:00

Okay, here is a nice long post. I appreciate your patience in reading it and also would love to hear what you have to say about it!

I was recently asked why I was a Calvinist. Unfortunately, I was not able to expound upon that question at the time, but now I can. The short answer is because that is what the Bible teaches. However, I am not going to leave it at just that. It is important in studying a subject like the Doctrines of Grace to put aside any preconceived ideas about it and just let the Bible speak for itself. With that, here is why I am a Calvinist:

Let us begin by examining Acts 13:48, "And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed." The context to this passage is Paul and Barnabas were preaching at Antioch in Pisidia. They first preached to the Jews, telling them of their need for Christ. Then, on the next Sabbath, Paul and Barnabas turned to the gentiles and started to tell them about their need for Christ. That is why the gentiles were rejoicing. But the part that clearly states the doctrines of grace is the phrase, "...as many as were appointed to eternal life believed." When someone is appointed, they are chosen; someone has to chose them, they don't chose themselves. Those who were appointed were saved. There is no way to say that God did not appointed them to salvation, and if God appointed them, it was done before the foundations of the world.

Next, let us look at Ephesians 1:3-6 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved." In looking at this passage, we see that God has chose us before the foundations of the world. That means that BEFORE God even formed the world, before Genesis 1, He chose those whom He will save. And He predestined us because He loved us. Now, this does beg the question, if God loved the whole world, why would He only chose some for salvation. The short answer is because He is God, and He can do what He wants. But the long answer: to understand this, we must first understand that there are many types of love. For example: A man will love his wife differently than he will love his sister, or he will love his children differently than he will love his parents. So, just because He did chose someone for salvation doesn't mean that He didn't love them. How this is, I don't understand, but Paul wrote in Romans, "Who can understand the mind of the Lord, or who has been his advisor."

Also in Romans, Paul address a similar idea in chapter nine:

14What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15For he says to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." 16It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy. 17For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: "I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth." 18Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden. 19One of you will say to me: "Then why does God still blame us? For who resists his will?" 20But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? "Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?' " 21Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? 22What God, choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? 23What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— 24even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?

We see here that God calls people for specific purposes. For Pharaoh, he was prepared for destruction that God's glory can be shown. Now we may be like why would God send unbelievers to Hell if they didn’t have a free choice. While, Paul asks the same thing in verse nineteen, “One of you will say to me: “Then why does God still blame us? For who resists his will?” Paul is anticipating an objection to what he was saying about how God hardens whom He wills. Now let us look at Paul’s answer in verse twenty: “But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” Verse twenty-two thru twenty-four says:

What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory— even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?

God prepares us for His glory, whether we are prepared for honorable use, or dishonorable use, we are used to bring glory to God. And that is another reason why I embrace the Doctrines of Grace, because it takes the glory away from man, and gives it to God. Everything God does is for His glory. And, if man choses God, that takes God out of salvation and gives the glory to man. If man can say, "I chose God," than man takes the glory. However, if God choses us, than we have nothing to do with our salvation and all the glory goes to God. I spend a long time on this passage because it is one of the clearest portrayals of the doctrines of grace.

Another thought, we know that salvation is only by God’s grace and not any works that we do. If we chose God, and God did not chose us, isn’t that a form of works salvation? And doesn’t Ephesians 2:8-9 make it clear that there is nothing we can do to earn salvation?

Let us now look at Romans 3:10-11, “as it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.” Verse ten is quoted all the time, and it’s true, but we need to look at verse eleven to fully understand it. Because of man’s deprived nature, we will not seek God on our own, that is why He must call us, and He can only call us if He has chosen us.

I would be amiss if I didn’t address I Peter 1:1-2, “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.” Some have wrongly said that this means that God looks down the portal of time, sees who is going to believe, and than based on that, choses them for salvation. The problem with that is that man is choosing God. So what is the answer: this statement means that God knew us personally before the foundations of the world, which that in itself is an exciting thought. For example, let’s say a met a friend of mine in the mall. Now, this is not the first time that I met this person, so I can say that I foreknew this person. God knew us before the foundations of the world because He chose us for eternity.

The thought that God chose me for salvation is one of the most humbling thoughts. I have done nothing to merit such favor. One may ask why I would post on this subject. The answer is several fold: First, this is a way to help me organize my thoughts in a clear matter. Second, to encourage academic discussion on the subject. And third, to bring glory to God. For when we study His word, and discuss His word, it brings Him glory, as long as we don’t fight about it. It is okay to disagree, but to cause disunity in the body over a subject like this would be counterproductive to the what matters, and that is the Gospel.

But, please do tell me what you think!!!

Soli Deo Glori

Some thoughts on the Election

2008-11-06T12:36:00.005-05:00

Okay, when I first heard that Obama won, my first thought was "Hello Canada." And while that is a big joke, I think we should look at some positive things from this election.

One, we can vote. The freedom to elect leaders is a relative new thing in the realms of history. But, though the candidate that I wanted didn't get in, at least we had some say in the election process.

Two, an African-American won the presidency of the United States. This wasn't thought of even four years ago, but now. It shows the progress that American has made to mend the wrongs of the past.

Third, God has him there for a reason. We can take comfort in the fact that God has planned and prepared this before the foundations of the world. God will be glorified with Obama in office, and it is ultimately for our good. Because God does EVERYTHING, not somethings, for HIS GLORY and OUR GOOD.

Now for a negative thought: my biggest fear is that we will start to loose our freedoms, but Christians have endured much worse, remember Nero. It is under persecution that Christianity spreads the most.

Sometimes Christians put way too much faith in government. Government is not what saved us. God has saved us, He is the one that is ultimately in control of all things. He raises rulers up and tears them down. So, with that in mind, let us keep the faith.

Now, I really really really really really really really really really really really (okay, you get the point) disagree with Obama's policies, but we need to pray for him. Again, God has him there for a reason, we need to pray for him. Now, that does beg the question how should we pray for him. We need to pray first and foremost for his salvation, that God will bring him into His elect. Second, we need to pray that God will give him wisdom in making decisions. And third, we need to pray that God will give us the grace to respect him. Ultimately, Obama is an authority figure in our lives, and we are commanded to honor those who are in authority over us. Now, that is easier said than done, so that is why we need to pray for it.

Well, those are some of my random thoughts on the election, what do you think?

Soli Deo Gloria

October 31st

2008-10-31T19:44:00.005-04:00

When most people hear the date October 31st, they will think of Halloween. However, October 31st is also Reformation Day. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther, a Catholic Monk, nailed his ninety-five thesis to the church door at Wittenberg, Germany. This sparked what is now know as the Reformation.

The iconic part of it, Martin Luther wasn't even saved at the time, and he wasn't advocating splitting from the church, all he wanted was to speak about the indulgences being sold. Yet God used him to bring about revival.

When study Martin Luther, one can't but be amazed at the faith the he had in Scripture. During his trial at Diet of Worms, he repeatedly say "if you can show me from Scripture were I am wrong, I will recant." That statement makes me wonder, how important is Scripture in my life. Sure, I will say, show me from the Bible were I am wrong, and I will change." But, the Bible tells me were I sin, but do I change? It is a challenge to me to follow Scripture and be willing to change areas in my life that contradict the Bible.

With that said, while Halloween is what most people think about on October 31st, let us also remember what happen 491 years ago!

Soli Deo Gloria

P.S. Here is a good post about Luther on John Piper's blog.

Really Really Looking forward to this weekend

2008-10-28T10:23:00.005-04:00

Ok, I am being bad right now. I am blogging well in my debate class. But, anywho, I am really really looking forward to this weekend. I have Saturday off, my first Saturday off in like four months. This Saturday, a bunch of us are going out to Blakes Cider Mill to do all the fun stuff out there. I am really looking forward to be able to spend time with other Christians just having fun.

So, anyways, back to my class. I think we are talking about the cross examination...

*the credit for the picture goes to Rachel Moen. I am not that good a photographer. Thanks Rach!!!

Wonder of The World

2008-10-21T12:46:00.000-04:00

Today, as I was driving down to WSU, I heard a song by Rush of Fools called "Wonder of The World." Part of the song goes, "Wonder of the world, you have wonderful to me. As long as I can speak, I will sing so." This got me thinking; Christ is the wonder of the world, I am nothing but a dirty, rotten sinner. Yet, He has been soooooo wonderful to me. The least I can do is proclaim His glory, yet, even in that, I fail everyday. Every time I put something in front of Him, I am saying that the wonder He has been to me is nothing.

God deserves and demands our praise, yet how often do I fail to give it to Him. It frustrates me to think that when I sin, I am saying that His sacrifice means nothing. Let us not forget the Wonder of the world, for He is truly wonderful and has been wonderful to me. The fact that I am able to breathe, and type these words, and think of the words to types shows what a wonderful and merciful Savior we have.

Let us worship the Wonder of the World!!!

Soli Deo Gloria

Another MacArthur quote

2008-10-10T23:01:00.000-04:00

This quote from MacArthur the other night:

(Referring to Christ's suffering on the cross) "As bad as the curse was from man, the curse came from God. As bad as this was, God predetermined this fro His joy"

Wow, what a thought, that Christ's greatest curse came not from man, but from God. And God did this for His joy. God finds joy in brining sinners to Himself. "God can't restrain Himself when a sinner comes to Him."

To think that everyday I take this gift that God has given to me and shove it back in His face. And to think that saving me brings Him joy. That thought makes me feel small, really really small.

I am overwhelmed.

Soli Deo Gloria

John MacArthur Live

2008-10-09T23:00:00.000-04:00

One of my life goals has been accomplish: I was able to hear John MacArthur live, and meet him

I took a video of him when he first got on stage; it's from my phone, so the sound quality isn't the best.

And here is a picture I took of him on stage!

So, what did he preach about? He preached about the prodigal son found in Luke 15.

Some quotes from MacArthur's message are:

The prodigal son is the worst picture of a sinner that Jesus could have painted for the pharisees.

The son's answer to his problem (this is when he is feeding the swine) was a legalist answer, he felt he had to earn his way back.

The Father is Christ

The Prodigal is the tax collectors

The Older Son was the Pharisees

If Christ can forgive the most extreme sinner, He can save all.

God can't restrain himself when a sinner comes to Him.

Jesus did not finish the story, because the Pharisees would write their own. According to MacArthur, the rest of the story is that the Older Brother rose up, and beat his Father to death with a piece of wood. The reason why, is about three months later, that is exactly what the pharisees did to Christ.

Well, needless to say, this was very exciting! John MacArthur has had a hugh impact on my spiritual growth, and to finally meet him was exhilarating.

I think though, if I am this excited about meeting a man; how much more exciting will it be to meet my Savior!

Soli Deo Gloria

Why "5solas5points"?

2008-09-23T00:06:00.000-04:00

I was trying to think of a url for this blog, something that describes what I believe. There are two list, both of them with five things, that best describe what I believe, and they are the five solas of the Reformation and the five points of Calvinism (also known as the Doctrines of Grace).

As I compare these list with scripture (remembering that scripture is the measuring rod of all things), they best articulate what I believe, and why.

In future post I will expound on these two list.

Soli Doe Gloria

What is the focus of this blog?

2008-09-22T23:25:00.000-04:00

Ok...I have started blogging!

So, what is the focus of this blog?

The answer is simple, yet not easy to accomplish: Soli Deo Gloria-For the glory of God alone!!! I say it is simple, because the goal of the Christian life is to glorify God; however, that is easier said than done. It is so easy to be arrogant and prideful, and in doing so, it steals the glory from God.

So, the focus of this blog is to glorify God!

Soli Doe Gloria