Leading Artists

And We're Back...

2012-02-13T11:58:00.000-08:00

Been a long, long time since I last wrote or read anything in the land of blogs! With the new changes here at FBC Pocatello, it's time to get back on track with my posts'.

It's been an amazing journey over the last two years of transition. God has been here doing some incredible work in my heart and life, as well as in the body itself. It certainly is a new day and a new year for ministry, for change, for growth and for the Kingdom growth. We've seen many new faces come and begin to connect with us...we've seen some old faces return and recognize the health and heart of the body in its new place...we've seen hurt and pain be replaced by healing and hope. God is moving...God is working...God is in control!

Since my last post, many things have transpired:

A new senior pastor, Mike Popovich. Great pastor, great leader, great man of God, great husband and father. He is God's man for us and it was God's timing that made this a perfect fit.
A new vision and direction that has focused us on the right things first - "FBC Pocatello exists to invite people into a relationship with Jesus Christ and help them become fully devoted followers of Him." Pretty straightforward and simple - and yet just what the church needs to be doing.
A renewed passion to serve the poor and least of these in our community. The Food Pantry team is growing and meeting some simple needs. In January alone they served close to 1200 people. Who knew we could do something like that? God did!
A heart to give and serve is growing in unique ways...we had a family donate a car to the church and on Christmas Eve gave it away to a single mom who's care (ironically) blew up two weeks after we received the car. AND, there may be another vehicle in the works very soon...
A need arose in our congregation for some work on a home. Started out to be a fairly major bath remodel which then turned into the roof needing to be completely torn off and replaced. So the body rose up...a dozen volunteers showed up on a Saturday at 9 and by 6 that evening the entire roof had been torn off, resurfaced with OSB board, papered and re-shingled. WOW!

I don't say this to 'show off' what we are doing. I don't say this to get 'points' for Kingdom admission.
I want people to know that God IS in control - even when we don't or can't see it. I have to admit that, before now, we really weren't allowing God to be God or to be in control. We all had our agendas, our ideas, our 'pet projects' that we wanted to protect. But we - rather I didn't stop to focus intently on what He wanted. And it cost me...it cost us, the church...and it broke the heart of God. I'm glad to say that those days and attitudes are behind us now. As I mentioned there has been much healing around here and a renewed hope for the next steps.

We're back - not just to be here to be here. But we're back as a body to make an impact for the Kingdom of God in Pocatello. We're committed to being the church that gets after it for God's sake, not ours. We're committed to being the church that takes a risk for the Kingdom, no matter how the world may look at it. We're committed to taking the Gospel to the places it needs to be taken to, locally and abroad.
It's an exciting time for FBC Poky...and it's really good to be back!

See you in church...

The Man I Hope To Be...

2011-10-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

I often talk about my dad in various places and situations. I came across this article that ran after his funeral and thought it would give you all some insight as to the kind of man I pray I will be like. He was the greatest and most godly man that I have ever known - period. This was written by one of the reporters who went to several funerals in the course of a week...

" ...next is Dean Pettit. I have known him all my life as he was a relative. I did not attend the funerals of Jan or Darlene but did attend Dean's. I have attended more funerals than I like, but none quite like Dean's. A true celebration of his life. Several speakers sharing touching and humorous stories involving him. What impressed me was the fact that his children were able to with composure speak of their dad and his teachings. When I stated that to one of the boys, his response was "that is how dad taught us." I came away from his service wishing I had known him much better and also wanting to know his God much better and to become closer to him. And after listening to each speaker, that was what Dean was all about, what he wanted each to take away from being around him and knowing him. Dean will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him, all those that worked beside him as he served the various organizations as a volunteer. Our church as well as the Blue and Gold center will miss him greatly."

Every time I read this article I am in tears. Not just because I miss him, 'cause I do, but also because of the honor it brings me to be called his son. When I think of Christian character and what it looks like in life, I don't have to look far. Dad was that model. Was he perfect? No. But he knew where he was deficient and allowed God to mold in him the character of Christ as was needed. Everything about dad emulated a man of Christian character, purpose and devotion. It showed in his love for mom, for us and for those he knew and loved. I don't ever recall dad having any 'enemies' in life. He didn't like some people sometimes...but he knew how to forgive and love them to the next point in their relationship.

Man...have I got a long way to go. But that's what I'm striving for. To be known as a man of God in all situations, all arenas of my life - starting at home. I pray that my influence begins with Sue, then Kia and Austin and Missy, next flows to Daniel and our next grandchildren (not in any hurry) and then into the lives of those I have the privilege of serving in ministry in various places.

The man I hope to be is seen in the character of my Risen Savior, modeled for us boys in Dean Pettit, Sr. Help me, Father God, to be like the man you created in him...

The Poor...the Orphan...the Widow

2011-10-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

We've all seen the pictures - faces of kids going without food, dirty and looking like a child from a third world country. Older women sitting on the edge of a road with bags and bundles of personal belongings. Children seemingly abandoned on the street...Problem with the pictures today is they are right here in the United States. You can't go one block, let alone one or two doors down from where you live, and NOT find someone living in or on the edge of poverty.

On top of that, the faces continue to be blended into our weekly church gatherings all across this great country.

The family sitting next to you in church doesn't know where their next meal is going to come from...
Parents will go without food while their kids eat what little they get.
The neighbor next door is barely getting by due to a series of events that have cost them hours/pay. Fear of losing a car, a home, even the kids they are trying to raise.
The widow wondering if her money will make it this month and if she'll have enough to turn the heat on before the really cold temps roll in.

So where are these people supposed to turn for help? Is there family that can and SHOULD step up?
Is there a government agency that's supposed to step in and save the day? Is there some relief anywhere? If so, how can they find it and connect to it?

What about the one place where they should ALWAYS find respite, where they should ALWAYS find hope?

Where is the local church? Is the church doing ALL it can or only what it THINKS it can? Is there a vision, a plan to reach out and BE the church?

We are commanded in scripture to care for the poor, the orphan and the widow...more than once! And yet week after week we walk past them in the grocery store or see them on the street and look at them with pity and the slightest twinge of sadness. Then we get on with our day and forget about them.We're just grateful that it isn't US on the receiving end.

Pastor Mike hit it on the head this past Sunday. We have learned to LOVE money and USE people in this country. And it has infected everyone, including the church, across this land.
We need to learn how to LOVE people (like Jesus did) and USE money to be a blessing. FBC Poky is trying to do it's part, as are other churches in our community. BUT IT NEEDS TO BE THE WHOLE CHURCH OF GOD, not just five or six groups.

I challenge us ALL to step up our game and our giving. Are we serving those in our community and neighborhood who we know are in need? Are we joining other groups to be a larger, more impactful force? Are we giving of our finances FIRST to God? Is there room to increase, even a little more to help others?

The local church IS the hope of the world - time to BE the hope!

"Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion everyone to his brother. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. Let none of you plan evil in his heart against his brother." Zechariah 7:10 (NKJV)

Praying for a Miracle...

2011-10-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

We have been experiencing high numbers of late in our FBC Food Pantry. We are averaging serving over 500 people each month, getting over 600 at least once in the last 4 months. This is a great ministry that has truly touched lives and made life bearable for many that take part.
Our main source of food is from the Idaho Food Bank, who rely purely on donations from the community, businesses and food drives. They too have been hit hard and are running short on supply.

As of this writing, we will have to close our Food Pantry this week due to the lack of food. What little we did get on Sunday will supply us for less than 1 hour on Tuesday, our longest open day (til 7 pm).

SO, I'm praying for a miracle and invite you to pray with me.

I am asking God to provide us with $5000 so that we can continue to serve our community at least through the end of the year, possibly into 2012. In addition, this will allow us to better serve the poor, the orphan and the widow - the main groups who use our food pantry - into the Thanksgiving holiday season.

Our hope is and has always been to move folks from consumers of the program to self-sufficient individuals. This will be the next step in growing this ministry. Plans and programs are being evaluated and studied as I write this.

But in the meantime, we're in a bind. With the oncoming fall/winter season in Idaho, the job situation not improving as we'd hoped and growing families in our valley, it WILL take a miracle to continue.

Please pray with me for God to provide the funds that HE desires us to have - hopefully around $5K!

I will post updates here as we see God move and direct us...

What Corporate Worship is NOT...

2011-10-01T04:16:00.000-07:00

I am one who will always be looking for ways to include people in the Sunday worship experience. Whether it be a form of art or music, or even sign language and dance, if it fits with what our focus and goal for worship is, I will find a way to use it - but it will always 'fit' or be intentional.
Our worship experience must be intentional in pointing people to God through various mediums - but ONLY if it makes sense. Our worship experience should never be about showcasing talent. If you look at 1 Corinthians 14, you'll see where Paul talks a lot about worship being done in a fitting and orderly way to glorify God and not man.

The Sunday experience must be about GIVING our best to God in our worship. Sometimes that best place of giving is from a seat or pew. When the unbeliever or lost person comes in to worship, they need to hear and see people leading from the seat right next to them.`

1 Cor 14:24-25 reminds us that the unbeliever WILL be impacted by our worship.

The Sunday experience is NOT about what you or I want. As Rick Warren starts out the Purpose Driven Life book, "It's not about you." The worship that we are all supposed to be sharing in each week is about God, for God and to God. Period. This issue of worship wars and music style arguments comes from a selfish heart and attitude. We all have it. But it does NOT belong in God's house. We BRING the sacrifice of praise - Hebrews 13:15
The attitude and heart of people leading out from a platform must be aligned with God. I have a huge responsibility to make sure that the people leading out from the platform each week are doing so out of the proper 'motivation' and heart. I take heat all the time because I won't put so and so up to 'do special music'. First, as I said before, I just don't throw someone up because it's nice to hear them sing. That's not the purpose. Does it fit with what we're doing, where we're going? But beyond that, what's the persons walk been like? Are they involved in our church? Are they serving somewhere? Do they have a servant attitude or a serve-me attitude?

If you had a football player who was really talented and could do just about anything, but didn't come to practice or participate regularly with the team, how much playing time would he really get? If he didn't regularly hit the weight room or work on his cardio, how effective would he be if he actually did get in the game?

It's the same with 'just putting people up front because they sing good or can DO something"...if the walk is not there, if the devotion to God is not there, the offering is offal (crap) to God.

Nowhere in scripture do I find direction or instruction that says to 'showcase' the 'talent' on Sunday during worship. God is our audience of one.

And since He is the audience, NOT US, then our focus must be one of intentionality, reverence, honor and praise TO Him, OF Him and FOR Him. Please, church, don't turn Sunday into the church version of America's Got Talent.

Honor God above all with your life in ALL places, not just Sunday morning. That's the church that a desperate world is dying to see!

(No Brainer) Lessons from the Farm

2011-09-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

While my time away at the farm was a short vacation, a typical vacation it was not.
I went intentionally to work on some things around the place for mom and to spend time with her. I didn't really go with the intention of relaxing and getting caught up. Knew it wasn't going to happen!

But on the plane ride home, I had the opportunity to upgrade to 1st class, something that rarely if ever happens. So I took it. Comfy, roomy and well attended to. I told my wife I could get used to this...but I'm a realist.

Don't get me wrong - while at mom's I did 'rest' more than I normally do here in town. But for the first time in I don't remember when, I actually relaxed. It caught me off guard! I had that 'I forgot something' feeling.

And then I heard all those voices from my family, friends and church - "Karl, you had better take your day off and relax...You need to just goof off for a bit, stop biting off more than you can chew..."

You'll all be glad to know it's beginning to sink in!

But here's the deal: not only does this affect my ability to lead here in my home and church, it adversely impacts my witness to a watching world. And not in a good way.

The lesson - let some stuff go (and some die) and get my heart and head back in the game for God. That means that folks in the church will need to step up and find a place to serve.That means that I will need to (and am willing to!) LET some stuff go.

The other harsh lesson of this trip was that I am not surrounding myself with people who need to hear about Jesus. I am surrounded by Christians at work and all my friends are Christian. My witness 'circle' is not so large!

How are you doing in these areas? Are you so busy doing 'church work' that you don't get any time for you, your family or your God? Are you surrounded by Christians more than non-Christians? What is your witness like?

If you're like me, we need some work. Know that I'm in the boat with you, striving to make the right choices and balance life out for God over what I think.

40 Days of Worship - Day 40

2011-09-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow – we worship!

Well, technically it's a couple of days away...but who's counting?

We will all be worshiping somewhere on Sunday. We will go through our own routines of getting ready - prayer walks, vocal warm ups, mental checks, tuning of instruments, playing through progressions and transitions in our head - all in preparation to lead worship.

Then we'll walk out onto our respective stages and do what we do week after week. The caution for us is that it turn into a routine, something we 'just do week after week'.

Throughout scripture we're reminded that our God provides NEW and EXCITING things for us each and every day. His mercies are new...each day is new...His love for us is fresh each day. Do we look for Him daily? Do we look for what He's doing around us every day?
When we walk out onto the stage each week, do we look FOR HIM or do we look at the people and forget that it is FOR HIM that they are here? If we get into a routine, we will only see the people and miss Him. If we get into a routine, we have lost our first love for Him and need to step back.

I am humbled each and every time I get to lead worship. Especially on those days when it's just not 'on' with the team. I mentioned this earlier in our study, but on those days I am grateful for God's filter. It's not that our hearts and minds weren't right. We just weren't prepared as we should have been, so instead of worshiping that day we were working (almost like a rehearsal).

That's not what God desires nor what He deserves.

Do yourself, your church, and God a huge favor this week: DON'T take the platform if you're not ready, sold out or passionate about doing this for Him this Sunday. God is SOOOO worthy of the very best that we have to offer Him. He has blessed us and He expects us to use it for His glory. Don't disappoint Him or let Him down.

In reality, you're the one who gets shortchanged when you go through the routine.

Let's WORSHIP GOD like we've never done before and see what it is He wants to do in our churches!

Can't wait to hear more of the stories --- GOD BLESS!

40 Days of Worship - Day 39

2011-09-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Praise JUBILANTLY!

Scripture: Psalm 150

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!

Sing this Psalm today. Dance this Psalm today. Play this Psalm today. Live this Psalm out right now and throughout the day!

40 Days of Worship - Day 38

2011-09-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Praise as a weapon for God?

Scripture: Psalm 149

What an interesting psalm!

The verse that really caught my attention was verse 6. “The praise of God in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands…” (paraphrasing).

Wowsers!

But go back a couple of days and recall Psalm 144. We’re in a battle! And if the enemy won’t surrender, then they must be defeated. There’s an aspect of worship that doesn’t get too many songs on the CCLI Top 25!

In fact, I could count on one hand the number of songs that speak about using praise as a weapon!

However, our posture each week from the place where we lead out should be just that. We need to be singing and playing with such conviction that the enemy would hit the doors of the worship center, hear and see what we’re doing and then do a 180 and hit the streets!

Is the passion for God burning so in our hearts when we lead out? As we come to the stage, are we arming ourselves for battle? Ephesians 6:10-18 is a great place to go to be reminded about how we need to be preparing for battle.

Today, take 10 minutes to study the passage in Ephesians. When you’re done, fill in the following blanks:

1. Belt of ________________ - keeps us from giving in to the world’s beliefs.

2. Breastplate of ___________________________ - about being honest, good, humble, fair; standing up for those who are weak.

3. Feet with the gospel of __________________ - being right with God and being contented in troubled times.

4. Shield of _____________________ - being sure that God will keep His promises. Protects you when tempted to doubt.

5. Helmet of _______________________ - believing that Jesus died for your sins and rose again.

6. Sword of ________________ - God’s Word, our offensive weapon. When we tell others of God’s Word the Holy Spirit guides us.

40 Days of Worship - Day 37

2011-09-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Bold and stout hearted…for Him

Scripture: Psalm 138:3

Does it take courage to get up in front of people and speak? Does it take courage to get up in front of people and sing?

There is a difference for a lot of people. As musicians, we’re comfortable behind the mic or behind an instrument. It’s how we’ve been skilled, how we’ve been shaped.

I think we’ve overlooked the fact that, because of Who we do this for, we have received the boldness that the psalmist talks about in this passage. You each, at one point, called out to God and asked Him to help you do this. You were asking for a bold and stout heart – so that you could make music for Him, to Him and about Him.

And He answered your prayer!

Don’t ever lose sight of the fact that, at one time, you were scared, weak and afraid to be used by God. You’re life was such a mess that you thought He could never use you, not for Him. Sad that Satan can convince so many people of that still today.

And now we have the honor of sharing that with people every week. I’m reminded daily that I’m a sinner saved by grace, not worthy of the call He placed on my life. But I strive to live that life out one day at a time, so that He can be glorified.

Savior, He can move the mountains, our God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save. Forever, author of salvation, our God is mighty to save He is mighty to save.
Shine your light and let the whole world sing, we’re singing, for the glory of the Risen King. (© 2010 Starfield)

40 Days of Worship - Day 36

2011-09-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

Tell of His greatness to the next generation…

Scripture: Psalm 145:1-4

Okay. Let’s be honest. It’s hard to praise God every day of every week, isn’t it? Why? What is it that comes into our lives and ‘blocks’ us from even starting the day with praise? Have we gotten so busy that we just can’t make the time? Or perhaps the question is have we gotten so busy that we just won’t make the time?

Before you start calling me out and accusing me of being critical notice I said ‘our’ and ‘we’ in those statements!

But we sing about this stuff every week. “Every day it’s You I live for, every day I’ll follow after You…” So are we singing about stuff that we don’t believe? Are we singing about stuff that we struggle with doing daily?

David wrote this psalm as a reminder for us to tell of the greatness of our God. It wasn’t meant to be a downer, though sometimes we need things like this to shock us back to reality. He was so in love with God (a man after God’s own heart) that he did everything he could to ensure that future generations would be awed by God. From the Old Testament we’re reminded to teach these things to future generations, referring to God’s laws.

David’s call to commend your works to other generations means to pass it on so that others may come to know Him. In short he’s speaking about leaving a Godly legacy.

What legacy of worship are you leaving for your family? What will they remember about your life of worship that points them to God? Your mouth will speak praise to the Lord. Is the life you lead doing the same?

Take inventory today of where you are in your walk with God. Are you getting time daily with Him? Are you in His Word, allowing it to shape you? Are you living for Him, serving Him with your life?

40 Days of Worship - Day 35

2011-09-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Prepare for battle…

Scripture: Psalm 144:1-2

Author Tim LaHaye has been writing about the end times for years. Known best for his Left Behind series and many other titles, he is also one of the most sought after speakers on the subject of the end times.

In a recent radio interview he was asked if he believes we’re living in the end times right now. With no hesitation he simply stated, “Yes, I believe we are.”

It sent a chill up my spine. Not because I’m not ready to go – can’t wait to get there! But there are still so many that will, pardon the pun, be left behind simply because they didn’t believe.

We are in a battle for the lost and seeking souls. Satan has done an excellent job in misguiding, blinding and deceiving thousands of souls right here in this valley. And as long as we have breath, we must fight for them.

The Psalmist paints a vivid and direct image in this passage. Read through all of 144 before the day is over, but notice the opening line – “…who trains my hands for war.”

None of us is called to be a sideline general, corporal, major – NONE. We are all being prepared for battle the moment we say yes to God.

And when we take our places each Sunday, we are shoring up the defenses by pointing hearts and minds to God. Whether music, scripture or preaching, it all strengthens us for the battle that is coming the following week.

As you focus during these last few days of this study on worship, begin to ask God to prepare you for more intense battle. Hopefully, you’ve grown some through this process and are ready for the next steps. Don’t be fearful. That comes from man – “He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer.” Think on THAT and watch fear flee!

All praise to You, my Rock, who trains my hands for war!!!

40 Days of Worship - Day 34

2011-09-03T05:11:00.000-07:00

Can’t we all just get along?

Scripture: Psalm 133

The famous phrase heard ‘round the world from Rodney King, “Can’t we all just get along?” That’s been bantered around from talk shows to comedians to politicking – you name it.

But it’s also a great reminder from this passage in the book of Psalm. Two key words pop out of the passage – good and blessing (vs. 1 and 3).

If you have kids, how ‘good and pleasant’ is it when they fight with each other? Nice and quiet, calm and peaceful – hardly! It’s like WWF in the house and you’re the referee.

Unfortunately for us, we’ve experienced the same kind of fighting in His house with His kids. And it hasn’t been pleasant at all.

But we’re reminded that, when we get along with each other, it is good and pleasant. AND, “There the Lord bestows His blessing…”

God blesses us when we do what He calls us to do. God won’t bless us when we’re at odds with each other. He wouldn’t ‘promote’ that kind of behavior, especially from His own kids!

But when we live in unity with one another, both on the team and in the church, He smiles on us in many ways.

We’ve got to move forward as a body on being united. It starts with one group, one team and then moves to others.

What do you need to do in order to promote unity among your family? What do you need to do to promote unity in His church? Have you forgiven and been forgiven?

Until we learn the grace of forgiveness, both giving and receiving, we will never fully know the blessings that are ours.

I’m forgiven, because You were forsaken; I’m accepted, You were condemned.
I’m alive and well, Your Spirit lives within me because You died and rose again. Amazing love how can it be, that You my King would die for me? Amazing love I know it’s true, that it’s my joy to honor You in all I do, I honor You. (©1996 WorshipTogether.com)

40 Days of Worship - Day 33

2011-09-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Psalm 100

40 Days of Worship - Day 32

2011-09-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

When we sometimes miss God…

Scripture: Exodus 33:10

“Whenever the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they all stood and worshiped, each at the entrance to his tent.”

The tent of meeting was set up as the place where Moses would go and inquire of God on behalf of the people. As he went out to the tent, the people would rise and stand at the entrance of their tent.

The pillar of cloud represented the presence of God, and was seen by the people. The natural response of the people was to worship – they bowed down, prostrated themselves, gave homage to God. When they saw the pillar they realized that God was among them.

How often do we miss those moments when God is truly among us? I believe that God still does reveal Himself to man today. The only difference is – it’s different! But He is still about making Himself known.

And when we encounter His presence, our natural response must be to worship. That means we drop what we’re doing, stop striving for something, and simply be on our knees before our great God.

Think about a time when you knew that you had encountered God. Put the picture of that moment in your mind. What was your response? How did you react? How did it affect your walk with Him?

As we get close to closing out this study in a few days, I would ask that you pay close attention to what God is saying and doing in your life. Watch those around you. Watch the opportunities that present themselves. Watch the people that come into your life.

When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoining that will be! When we all see Jesus we’ll sing and shout the victory! Eliza Hewitt, 1851-1920

40 Days of Worship - Day 31

2011-08-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Speaking out boldly in public…

Scripture: Psalm 119:45-48

Again, if you have the Message translation, this is a verse that resonates well. If you don’t have it, go to www.youversion.com and select the passage and the Message translation.

If I could capture my house during a Steelers football game and share that with the congregation, I’d probably be committed somewhere. I get crazy. I love my team, from the top all the way to the folks who work the stadium each week. And I’m not ashamed to show it – ever.

I wish I could say I’m the same when it comes to God and my walk with Him. Yes I do get a little excited some Sundays but it’s nothing like what I do with m Steelers. I don’t “speak out boldly in public” like verse 46 talks about. What’s worse is I don’t look for opportunities to do that.

So here’s our bold challenge for us today:

Find a place where you can connect with someone and boldly share what Christ has done for you, in you and through you. Unembarrassed (v. 46).

And yes, I would say it needs to be someone you don’t really know. If it’s a conflict at work, go offsite for lunch or break. This really shouldn’t be a shock to anyone who knows you, works with you, goes to class with you – if you’ve been striving to have a more personal relationship with Christ through this study, it will already be known (and seen).

I am not ashamed of the Gospel, the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

40 Days of Worship - Day 30

2011-08-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

More Than Amazing…

Scripture: Luke 9:43

Sing this song as your time of worship today.

You’re the One who walked on water, and You calmed the raging seas.

You command the highest mountains to fall upon their knees.

You’re the One who welcomed sinners, and You opened blinded eyes.

You restored the broken hearted and You brought the dead to life.

Forgetting all our sin, You remembered all Your promises.

You are amazing, more than amazing,

Forever our God You’re more than enough.

Father, God, we stand completely and utterly in awe of You today. There is no one on this earth who could love like You.

At times we are rendered speechless…

40 Days of Worship - Day 29

2011-08-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Fear NOT!

Scripture: Psalm 27:1

Short and to the point.

If God is my light, my salvation and the stronghold of my life, then whom will I fear?

According to David in this Psalm, I should fear not. Take the time to read the rest of this Psalm.

I know that life gets scary sometimes. I know that life is uncertain at times. I know that life has a lot of unanswered questions. The question you have to ask yourself is this – will I live in fear of what I don’t know, or in faith of Whom I do know?

Do I have enough faith in God to carry me through those hard and scary times? Do I have enough confidence in God to guide me through uncertain waters? Do I believe God has the answer to my questions and doubts?

So it’s another one of those ‘reality check’ kind of days:

· Does fear have more power in your life than your faith? Is it across the board or just in certain places?

· How much of this fear ‘creeps in’ to your worship? Does it consume you or just nag you from the back of your mind?

If you’re doing okay in this area, take a moment to say Thank You to God.

I will put my trust in You, I will put my hope there too, I will stand upon Your Word, I will not be shaken.

I will let my praises flow, holding onto what I know, for I know You’re always there, I will not be shaken. I will not be shaken!

40 Days of Worship - Day 28

2011-08-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

40 Days of Worship - Day 27

2011-08-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

True picture of majestic…

Scripture: Psalm 8

I call this chapter a mind blower.

Think about it. Of all the creatures that God created, both earthly and heavenly, He chose US to receive His love, grace, mercy, blessing, provision, strength – US!

Tonight, before you go to bed, go outside and look up into the nighttime sky. Take in the depth of space; the complexity of our solar system; the beauty of the evening sky…take it all in. And then ask yourself this question – why would God bother with us? We’re nothing when compared to the grand scheme of things in this world.

But thank God He is not going to be keeping us in this world. Which is why we’re so special to Him.

All of this stuff in our world – space, nature, senses – it’s all for our benefit, given to us by a loving Father who just wanted His children to be happy.

He had time for all that and more – all motivated out of love!

Majesty, majesty. Your grace has found me just as I am, empty handed but alive in Your hands.

40 Days of Worship - Day 26

2011-08-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Worship in spirit and in truth…

Scripture: John 4:21-23

Jesus lays out for us the heart of a worshiper in this passage.

“It’s who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That’s the kind f people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before Him in their worship.” John 4:23 the Message

We’re not talking about our corporate worship here, though it should translate over to that.

Jesus is having this discussion with the Samaritan woman at the well. Just Jesus and her. Remember earlier in our study I said that worship is, at its core, relationship with God.

It’s who you are and the way you live that count before God. How does the way you live – home, lifestyle, hobbies, relationships – honor God?

Take a minute to ponder that before you go on with the next question.

When you come before God in worship, your private worship, do you come simply and honestly? Do you come with an agenda or ultimatum?

Honesty, sincerity and genuineness are key components of our worship to and for God. Without them – all of them – we’re just going through the motions. In a sense we are worshiping something we do not know, as John states in verse 22. I pray that will never be any of us.

Sing your favorite song of honor and praise before you go out today.

I stand in awe, so amazed, totally changed by Your presence, forever.

Every time I look into Your eyes, I see a glimpse of what I’ve always wanted to be.

Let me be changed, let me be changed in Your presence.

(Jachim Mullins)

Have a Plan...

2011-08-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

Did you ever notice that, as the years go by, we don't get any younger?
I keep hoping that I'll wake up one day and I'm a year YOUNGER, not older. I really wish it would work that way...

As I've moved ahead in years, especially these past few, it's become more and more apparent that I need to spend more time training up the next generation of worship leaders sooner than later.

We're not promised tomorrow - a great reminder my dad used to tell my mom. In our world today, that has impact on our life, our job, our relationships, our health - everything.

As a leader, I've got to step back and ask some tough questions, and then be prepared to find the answers to them ASAP:

If God called me home today, who would step up and take my place? Who has the gifts and skills to be able to fill the gap? Would that person be short or long term?

What do I need to look for in someone to mentor for this position?

Where do I look? What are my resources at hand to begin the search, to even have the conversation with someone?

What is my Senior Pastor looking for after me? Does he even know what that needs to look like?

In the life of the church, what will they need moving forward? (You have to know who your church is in order to answer that question.)

You also have to be able to communicate who the worship service is geared toward. That will make a huge difference in finding the right person. (In our case, we're a believer focused - seeker sensitive approach.) What does that mean for a worship leader? How does that impact the kind of music that's selected, the make-up of the band, the layout of the room, the ambiance that is set, etc.?

As leaders we can't just be about what's on our plate today or this week. We have to be about future generations and what the church will offer them. It's much better to have a plan and then attack, than it is to have an attack and have to plan in the heat of the battle. Mistakes get made, things get lost and there are casualties.

Plan ahead, leaders. Plan with purpose and a goal in mind. I'll be there in the trenches with ya...

40 Days of Worship - Day 25

2011-08-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Singers and instruments are a big part of worship…

Scripture: 2 Chronicles 19:25-30

Hezekiah is cleansing the temple in this passage of scripture. He was following what God had commanded he and the people to do. This is one of those passages that we, as worship leaders, like to refer to when we want to make a big thing about music in worship!

Notice the amount of volume that is on display here:

· Cymbals, which were the big ones, not the little ones like Kia and Cayle hit on.

· Harps, also not tiny little pocket sized versions.

· Lyres, or as we call them early version guitars!

· And let’s not forget what the priests had – trumpets!

· Finally, we add singers.

Now understand this. The singers had to be heard over the trumpets. So there were more than 2! It is the early version of the worship choir!

It’s interesting the tone that music sets in this setting. In verse 28 the whole assembly gathered and took the sacrifice while the singers sang accompanied by the instruments. The sense is that this was a more somber, reflective tone. Later, in verse 30, the singers sang and the word used here is a variant of our word hallelujah (halal2). It means to give thinks, cheer, extol, to make one’s boast in the name of God. In other words, IT’S A CELEBRATION of worship.

Again, not just one or two singers and instruments. It was a joyous, exalting sound.

And it was an important part of the service. Don’t miss this. Sometimes we tend to run past things that really are necessary parts that require our attention. The ‘band’ gets mention here because music is a form of worship. It’s been said over and over (because it’s worthy) that music does and says things that words alone cannot.

Our job today is to make it accessible (in the right key), worshipful, convicting, emotive, responsive, and so much more.

Do not take this role lightly. It’s huge! And it’s a privilege to fill it.

Take time today to thank God for the skills He has given you in music. Whether it be vocals, instruments, or media ability, God grew it in you to be used for His glory.

40 Days of Worship - Day 24

2011-08-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

Keep us focused on You, Father!

Scripture: Isaiah 29:13

A cautionary verse for all worshipers in all churches.

We can get so easily focused in church life on the rules, guidelines, even constitutions! We get so intent on making those things work, trying to appease the ‘masses’, that we forget about the WHY and the WHO of what we’re doing here.

I admit it. That was us in this past year. Was some of it necessary? Yes, to a degree. But at what cost do we focus on what we want to keep, what worked in the past, with no regard for the present or future with our King?

Through it all, we had a team that was focused on bringing their very best each week in worship music. I believe our hearts were directed on giving our God our very best in worship, all with the hope of bringing others along with us in the process. We didn’t always hit the mark. None of us do.

Our focus, team, must always be on Him. I pray that we will not have to deal much with those who come and ‘attempt’ to lead worship from a worldly place or out of an angry heart. We have some really good accountability and responsibility in our team to make sure that doesn’t happen. And I say THANK YOU to you for that!

Father, help us today not to focus our attention on things that are really not that important. Especially if anything will take our attention, our focus off of You. God, I pray that our team would be laser focused on seeking Your heart and Your desire for FBC Poky. Use us God for Your glory!

40 Days of Worship - Day 23

2011-08-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

A day of praise…

Scripture: Psalm 147:1, 7

After reading the passages today, play your favorite worship song. Take time out to simply sing praises to Him, to offer up a song of thanksgiving for all He’s done for you.

Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above.

With wisdom, power and love, our God is an awesome God.

40 Days of Worship - Day 22

2011-08-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

If you got it, share it…for His glory.

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10-11

I like the Message translation here, especially at the beginning of verse 10, “Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it…"

Too many churches are about keeping what they’ve got for themselves. It’s what several writers have labeled a ‘country club’ mentality. Talk about an idea that doesn’t belong in God’s house!

If we ever get to the point where there's not a willingness to give away what we’ve learned, discovered or created out of God encounters, someone better call me on it. We have the joy and honor of being His servants for the good of the Kingdom, not just this church. We’re a tiny dust speck compared to the grand scheme of things.

But even a tiny dust speck can make a difference in their little piece of the world. And that’s what, I believe, we’re called to do right here in Pocatello.

We won’t have national or international impact like some churches do. Okay. I can live with that. In fact, I prefer it!

What we do here and how it impacts our community is what matters. Period. But it’s got to be for more than just FBC Poky. That’s why we still do the parade and the park; it’s why we still do Friend Zone and RecoveryFest. We, across the board in ministry, desire to GIVE IT AWAY, SO THAT someone might find Christ.

How do we give away what we have in worship? Beyond coming prepared with mind and spirit, what else can we do? Some of you serve in more than just the Praise Team. That’s exactly what we should be doing.

Let me challenge each of you to do a very dangerous exercise. Write down what you’re passionate about. For many of us it will be music. But there’s more there than just music. What gets you excited when it comes up in conversation? What gets you to dreaming about stuff? Write it down.

Now, do we have someplace where you could plug in and serve? Or is it something that needs to be fleshed out and developed as a new ministry?

And yes, I understand the risk this brings. Some of you may discover that your heart is shifting away from Praise Team and into something else.

Here me clearly – I will not stand in the way of God shaping your heart! You go and do what God calls you to do. I don’t get a vote in this area, sorry.

God always provides people, resources, etc. when He moves someone from one place to another. I’ve seen it happen a lot, and will see it happen in the future. That’s who He is!

About Sunday...

2011-08-21T22:33:00.000-07:00

A lot happened today, and I think God may have been pleased!

1. We introduced our youngest guest drummer, who will have a place with us in the future. Way
to go Nic - you did a great job worshipping from the set with your sticks!
2. "Stay Amazed" was a great worship song that touched a lot people. Great job on the vocals,
ladies. It was fun to sing some harmonies again.
3. The message, available on our website each week, was right on the mark. We are all heirs with
Christ and have some great responsibility along with our great inheritance. Especially
appreciated the explanation of sonship. Check the message out at www.fbcpoky.com
4. We had a business meeting afterward to discuss the final numbers from last year and to look
at what we need to do about replacing the boiler. All in all some good discussion and some
encouraging feedback. The heart of the church was visible in many ways today!
5. Had the chance to go check out the launch of Mission Church here in Pocatello this evening.
I am encouraged about what this could mean to the body of Christ here in our valley. Please
pray for God's will to be done with Aaron and the team as they move ahead with whatever it
is that God is calling them to.

God is about to do something great with His church, not only in First Baptist, but I believe soon in the greater Christian community. It's time to make a stand for the gospel of Christ.

Are you on board? Are you with us as we move forward into the unknown of Kingdom work?

Hope to see you in church...

40 Days of Worship - Day 21

2011-08-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

We're NOT giving up...

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (the Message)

"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without His unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever."

At times, life looks like it's out of control. Well, to be honest, at times it is. But God still sits on His throne. He's given this world to someone else and does allow stuff to happen. But NOTHING happens in this world that's not part of God's master plan. Nothing!

Our hope is not in this world. Our hope is not in any man, no matter how great or powerful he may be. Our hope is not in any thing, gimmick or place.

Our hope is in Christ. "Not a day goes by without His unfolding grace..."

So if this is what we believe, how do we allow the 'hard times' of this world to hold us down? All of this stuff is momentary. Yeah, I get that some of if feels like it's just so big...buy how big do you think our God is? Rather, how small do you thing God is? Let's face: when we don't trust our 'hard times' to God, we're saying He can't handle it. Time to talk with God...

Don't give up, someone really loves you. Don't give up, someone really cares. Don't give up, someone really loves you, and that someone is the Lord.
((C) Encouraging Music, Rick Muchow)

40 Days of Worship - Day 20

2011-08-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Monkey see, monkey do...

Scripture: Psalm 119:13-16

This phrase is based solely on what is seen, what is observed by others. There is nothing in this phrase that helps us, as Christians, is there?

Did we see Christ as He walked on earth? Did we see Him in His ministry years, modeling for us what He wants us to do? Did we see the crucifixion and experience the resurrection? Not in the literal sense.

But the writer of Psalm 119 didn't write from a first-0hand perspective either. Obviously the writer didn't see Jesus or His ministry or His crucifixion. It is out of relationship with God we get these words.

The writer states, "I'll transfer to my lips all the counsel that comes from your mouth..." Meaning, we don't just study the Word and then keep it to ourselves. We need to be sharing with others the truths and promises of God's Word. That is a form of worship. Sharing, testifying what God has done. It's us bragging on Him!

The other step to sharing and testifying is the act of meditating. Meditation is simply this - focused thinking on God, His Word and His promises. That's it. Making time to grab a section of scripture, a verse even, and ponder what it means to you. How does it impact your life? ow does it intersect with your daily living? How does it affect your relationship with your family, friends, etc.? Think about it, dwell on it, and then allow God to work it out in you.

If you've been memorizing a verse each week (Day 16), pick one verse today and focus on that passage. Break it down and see what God reveals to you.

As you pray, ask God to keep this fresh perspective of the verse in the forefront of you mind all day. Delight in His Word and see how that impacts your day!

40 Days of Worship - Day 19

2011-08-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

It’s God and no other!

Scripture: Exodus 34:14

Jealous. Not a word that a lot of people outside of Christianity would associate with God. But this word is deeper than just the surface definition. If you look up jealous you find words like envious, suspicious of rivals, watchful – what we think this word to be.

But there’s one more definition that applies here. It’s the idea of demanding loyalty, exclusive loyalty or adherence.

God does not want to be shared with any other ‘god’ that we create or assign. He wants our COMPLETE and utter loyalty to Him and Him alone.

But Karl, I don’t have any other gods except Christ. Really?

You know me to be a fairly straight shooter, so hang on…

What do you spend the majority of your time thinking on each day? Where do you spend your quality time? If you were to map out your entire week, what percentage of it is devoted to God, spending time with Him?

Today’s exercise is a little more in depth, so plan accordingly.

We each get 168 hours each week (7x24). Of that, let’s say that we sleep about 7 hours/day, leaving 119 hours for work, play, etc.

On a piece of paper, map out where you spend your time. Be as honest as you can. Be sure to include time watching TV or on the computer, time doing errands/chores, etc. And don’t forget to show the time you spend with God.

The reality is this – if we aren’t making time for God, something else IS god.

40 Days of Worship - Day 18

2011-08-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Does our worship make this kind of impact?

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:24-25

In this letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul is speaking about a worship service. Here he is addressing the gifts of prophecy and tongues, reminding the church that it’s not always about us in corporate worship. You could read the whole chapter and find some very helpful insight, but I like how he sums things up at the close of this section of scripture.

Instead of being so focused on gifts in corporate worship, we’re reminded that, even today, we have unbelievers who will attend a service. Go figure! Paul doesn’t tell the church to ignore them or ask them to leave. Instead he takes the early church in an unusual direction. He says to be aware of HOW you worship SO THAT those who don’t know Christ may come to know about Him by your example. In verse 25 he says, “So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming ‘God is really among you!’”

That made me think – does our worship invite the unbeliever to connect with the Living, Holy God? Does our music, message, speaking and praying point others to Jesus? I believe it does, for the most part.

Isn’t it funny that we all know when we have an ‘off day’? We hit the green room and say, “Whew! Glad that’s done!” We know that we just didn’t get it right. We weren’t together, we were flat, we sang the wrong verse, etc.

But it has never failed yet – as soon as we have one of those days, someone in the congregation will approach me and say, “Wow! That was exactly what I needed today. The music was great…the message was directed right at me...” All the while I’m hearing this, my mind is asking the question – what service were you at, ‘cause the one I was in sucked!

I call this the God filter. And I believe God blesses us more than we will ever understand in this area. We don’t always get it the way we want to on stage. But here’s a difference maker for our team – heart and motivation.

Each of you takes what you do very seriously, and it shows. That’s why I believe our worship services do make the kind of impact, most of the time, that Paul is challenging the early church with.

Now, remember the little ego monster I referred to yesterday. Keep that little bugger in check. You know if any of us sees it in each other, it’s gonna get called out and squashed!

As you wrap today up, ask God to show you where you need to be more open and free in your private worship time. Allow God to pour into your heart a picture of unashamed worship, uninhabited worship.

Jesus draw me close, closer Lord to You. Let the world around me fade away. Jesus draw me close, closer Lord to You. For I desire to worship and obey. (Rick Founds, © Maranatha music 1990)

40 Days of Worship - Day 17

2011-08-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

God expects us to live a certain way…part 2

Scripture: Psalm 119:9-12

As musicians we are always looking for something different, something new to add to our repertoire of skills and abilities. Why? Is it so we can be really cool in what we know? Is it to impress others so they’ll view us differently?

No…we do it so we can be stretched and discover all that we CAN do. Mediocrity is not a place anyone should want to reside in for long. There will be moments in life where we are temporary residents of mediocrity. But that should fuel us to want to move out quickly. The problem with mediocrity is it gets comfortable after a while, and then we become complacent. We don’t have a desire to move from where we are to where we really CAN be.

I also say this with a bit of caution, especially as musicians. We have larger egos than most people and Satan would love for us to let those critters out and run free. No thank you! The core of our move is our motivation. Further than that it is the WHO of our motivation. Who are we doing this for? Who are we striving to be better for? Who will get the recognition for our ‘success’ in the end?

In this passage today I am reminded that, by living according to the Word of the Living God, my way CAN be kept pure. I don’t have to worry about what the world will think or say about me. I don’t have to worry what the world will want to do to me. I have hidden His Word in my heart so I will know how to stand and fight against all it has to offer. My ego won’t get a chance to raise it’s ugly little head. My motivation to be better at what I do is for the King of Kings and His purpose for my life. He expects me to live a certain way to be that man – and I gladly accept the call.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. THAT’S how He wants you to live.

Where are you ‘weakest’ in your walk today? Where did you wander off the path? What will you need to do to get back on? Commit to God today to return to the ways that He has prescribed for you in His Word. Don’t bite off a big chunk, more than you can handle. Remember this phrase: how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Bon appetite!