Tonight, I wanna do one of these like, song-to-sermon kind of deals. I had a couple of songs in mind, but one that we just kinda played around with tonight at practice was Blessed Be Your Name. A lot of artists have done this song, I just picked a version I liked. Watch the vid, then ponder what I have to say about it.
I picked Blessed Be Your Name because it's one song I know that is taken almost directly from a book of the Bible. Some history on the story it tells. Job (J-ohb) was a man of God. He had it made too. Land, cattle, livestock, family, house, money, everything the American dream in Bible times was equal to.
One day, Satan came before God and God asked what he had been doing. Satan claimed to be strolling the Earth. God asked Satan if he had considered His servant, Job. A "blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil" Satan remarked that God had put a protective hedge around Job. God said He would remove the hedge so Satan could test Job. The only rule was, Satan was not allowed to touch Job's physical body.
So, Satan tests Job. He kills all of Job's cattle, takes his land, kills his servants, and kills all of his children. At the news of this, Job tears his clothes and shaved his head. He then falls to the ground and worships God. "'Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."
Satan tests Job again, after getting the ok from God. This time he takes Job's health. Job grows these gross lesions on his body, so bad that he takes pieces of terra cotta and cuts his skin, to ease the pain of the boils. Job's wife turns to him in disgrace and says that he needs to end this nonsense. She tells him to simply curse God and die. But, remarkably, "In all this, Job did not sin with his lips."
The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. The entire book of Job is pretty ridiculous. At the very end, because of his faithfulness to God, Job is given so much more than he already had. And his friends get rebuked. Because they weren't that great of friends.
But it's just an amazing thought. In all that he suffered, Job never turned to God and said that it was His fault. Job never ceased worshiping his creator. I can speak personally and say that I don't think I could do that. But that is a statement against a lot of people. Especially in America. We are so prone to take everything we have for granted, and when something is taken from us, we more often than not blame God.
But I ask you this. If God does this to us, and takes things from us, do you not think He has something better to fill that hole?
Just saying. Tonight's practice was pretty stinking awesome, given the circumstances.
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
“For who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?”
“Or who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?”
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
(Romans 11:33-36 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
My 50th post.
Wow. Can't believe it's been 50 posts. This thing is fun.
I just want to briefly talk. I'm reading through a book right now called "Desiring God." It's taken me forever to finally read this book, and I am so glad I am. It's a deep look at what it truly means to desire God and to be one of His disciples.
That being said, my brain is fried. Lol. So, I wanted to post a video of an amazing song or two.
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
(Romans 10:17 ESV)
Philos, Justin
I just want to briefly talk. I'm reading through a book right now called "Desiring God." It's taken me forever to finally read this book, and I am so glad I am. It's a deep look at what it truly means to desire God and to be one of His disciples.
That being said, my brain is fried. Lol. So, I wanted to post a video of an amazing song or two.
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
(Romans 10:17 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Monday, March 28, 2011
A prayer.
Just, what I'm feeling right now as I am supposed to be writing my English paper, but this needs to be said.
God, you truly are amazing. I lay in my bed here, and have one of those "ah-ha" moments. You made me so intricately and planned out my life before I was even a thought. I just want to apologize. God, I know I have fallen short of Your perfect glory. I ask for Your forgiveness. I know that I need you and that You desire to be glorified in my life. And truth be told God, I'm doing a terrible job of it. So please, change me. Create in me a new heart. I know You know what I am going to do with my life. I just pray that it is a life that honors You and gives You the most glory possible, because You deserve the most glory. I thank You for the cross, Lord. Thank you for sending Your perfect and spotless Son to live a sinless life and die a death that I deserve so that I can believe in You and live for you, despite failing miserably. Thank You for all You have blessed me with, because it is more than I deserve. Waaay more. God, I know that this prayer seems self-centered. I can only hope that Your Holy Spirit intercedes on my behalf and prays what I need prayer for. Because if left up to my own devices, I would condemn myself to death apart from You.
Thank you Lord, for everything you do for me. I pray all of these things in Jesus' name, Amen.
Philos, Justin
God, you truly are amazing. I lay in my bed here, and have one of those "ah-ha" moments. You made me so intricately and planned out my life before I was even a thought. I just want to apologize. God, I know I have fallen short of Your perfect glory. I ask for Your forgiveness. I know that I need you and that You desire to be glorified in my life. And truth be told God, I'm doing a terrible job of it. So please, change me. Create in me a new heart. I know You know what I am going to do with my life. I just pray that it is a life that honors You and gives You the most glory possible, because You deserve the most glory. I thank You for the cross, Lord. Thank you for sending Your perfect and spotless Son to live a sinless life and die a death that I deserve so that I can believe in You and live for you, despite failing miserably. Thank You for all You have blessed me with, because it is more than I deserve. Waaay more. God, I know that this prayer seems self-centered. I can only hope that Your Holy Spirit intercedes on my behalf and prays what I need prayer for. Because if left up to my own devices, I would condemn myself to death apart from You.
Thank you Lord, for everything you do for me. I pray all of these things in Jesus' name, Amen.
Philos, Justin
Sunday, March 27, 2011
On the outside, we've found a home.
The Outsiders by Needtobreathe. Good song. Anyways, I wasn't going to post tonight, considering how later in the evening it is. But, I figure I wanna talk about this one.
As of recently, I have been struggling with an idea. A question, rather. And it's taking some discussion with a good friend to help me out, despite my friend needing to sleep, to my dissapointment. My question stands, do people in countries that have never heard the Gospel die, and spend eternity in Hell, separated from God?
Originally, my answer was no. Because God is a merciful and just God. And I couldn't imagine a God that would punish people for something they never knew about. But as I talked with my friend more and more, and read through Romans 10, I have a new opinion.
All people are born into sin. We are all wicked by nature. That wickedness separates us from God, eternally. Regardless of if we ever hear about the Gospel or not. Should we hear and God chooses to save us, and use us for His glory, then we can one day live forever with him. But if we never hear, then we are condemned to die alone.
However, this is where the evangelical Christian comes in. We are called, once saved by Jesus, to go the the corners of the Earth and preach the Gospel. So because of our lethargy and lack of desire to do the work of Christ, millions of people die and spend eternity separated from God.
David Platt, in his book "Radical" said that "There are no innocent people in the World just waiting to hear the gospel. Instead there are people all over the world standing guilty before a holy God, and that is the very reason they need the Gospel."
Just something to chew on. I'm sure gonna be chewing for a while.
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
(Romans 10:14-17 ESV)
Philos, Justin
As of recently, I have been struggling with an idea. A question, rather. And it's taking some discussion with a good friend to help me out, despite my friend needing to sleep, to my dissapointment. My question stands, do people in countries that have never heard the Gospel die, and spend eternity in Hell, separated from God?
Originally, my answer was no. Because God is a merciful and just God. And I couldn't imagine a God that would punish people for something they never knew about. But as I talked with my friend more and more, and read through Romans 10, I have a new opinion.
All people are born into sin. We are all wicked by nature. That wickedness separates us from God, eternally. Regardless of if we ever hear about the Gospel or not. Should we hear and God chooses to save us, and use us for His glory, then we can one day live forever with him. But if we never hear, then we are condemned to die alone.
However, this is where the evangelical Christian comes in. We are called, once saved by Jesus, to go the the corners of the Earth and preach the Gospel. So because of our lethargy and lack of desire to do the work of Christ, millions of people die and spend eternity separated from God.
David Platt, in his book "Radical" said that "There are no innocent people in the World just waiting to hear the gospel. Instead there are people all over the world standing guilty before a holy God, and that is the very reason they need the Gospel."
Just something to chew on. I'm sure gonna be chewing for a while.
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
(Romans 10:14-17 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Thursday, March 24, 2011
So won't You take the lead?
I have such awesome friends. My friends have an amazing taste in music. I heard three new songs today, and I thought that you guys should enjoy them, so here are some videos. Two are just lyrics, then one is a real music video.
If I picked favorites, I like them all. Background is really easy to sing along to. All of them are amazing songs and have messages presented in awesome ways.
Also, I found out today that someone else reads my blog. I'm excited!
For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
(Romans 3:22-26 ESV)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Philos, Justin
If I picked favorites, I like them all. Background is really easy to sing along to. All of them are amazing songs and have messages presented in awesome ways.
Also, I found out today that someone else reads my blog. I'm excited!
For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
(Romans 3:22-26 ESV)
Soli Deo Gloria.
Philos, Justin
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Calvinism.
I was gonna tackle this post last night, but, I didn't. So, here goes.
I believe I am a Calvinist. Let that sink in.
What is a Calvinist? Well, there are a bunch of different definitions. And people have a bunch of differing opinions on Calvinism. But this is my interpretation, based on what I have learned.
I believe that God made me. I believe that when God made me, he could look at my life like a picture, and see one edge of the frame, my birth, to the opposite edge of the frame, my death or His return. The picture looks like, at least in my mind, a big maze like when you were little. They had a starting point, and a destination. Between them were lines that crossed, weaved in and out of each other, and covered the entire page.
I see that as my life. The lines on the picture are choices and "lives" I have the opportunity to live. God drew all the lines, and knows which one I'm going to take. I just have the mindset that I am in control of it. That is the first aspect of Calvinism I believe in. Man has no true free will. Every choice we make, no matter how freely we believe we make it, was predetermined by God. Even the bad choices.
There is an acronym that describes it better than I can. Ladies and Gentlemen, TULIP.
T-Total Depravity: Because of the Fall, or when sin entered the world, every human is born into sin. It surrounds us and we cannot escape using our own device.
U-Unconditional Election: God does not choose who will believe in Him and be His follower by their merit, actions, or His faith in them. Rather, He determines everything by His mercy. And, that means that there are some that walk this Earth that are condemned to face His wrath.
L-Limited Atonement: This is a kinda controversial topic. Basically, what it means is that the propitiation (Big word for the pouring of God's wrath on Jesus at the Cross) and the sacrifice that Jesus made for sin is sufficient for every man, but efficient for those whom God has predetermined. In essence, if God saw fit to give everyone his unconditional grace, and all were chosen by Him, then the sacrifice that Jesus made would be enough to cover everyone's sin. But, because not everyone will be saved, the sacrifice Jesus made is enough regardless. It's kinda confusing.
I-Irresistable Grace: By far, one of the coolest things I believe. In essence, the grace and love of God is so overwhelming, that if you are destined to accept Jesus as your savior, the message of the Gospel and the saving grace that it brings will bring you to Jesus. If God desires for you to be saved, you will be saved.
P-Perseverance of the Saints: Saints here is not what you think. Saints are defined in Calvinism as those who are set apart by God, not men who are holy, or canonized, or whatever. This means that those who are in Christ truly will continue in faith with Him till the end, because God's grace can't be outdone by human efforts. That means that those who fall from faith were never truly in it to begin, or will return one day.
That's TULIP. Another cool thing is what's called Sovereign Grace. Basically, it means that before a perfect God, all of us are condemned. However, God, in His sovereign grace, is merciful to some. It goes back to what I said earlier. You're not saved based on works, or the faith God has in you. Just by His grace and power alone, and because He desires it.
Anyway, that's what I think. For some good books on it, read just about anything by John Piper, R.C. Sproul, A.W. Tozer (Who isn't a Calivinist, per se, but he has some good stuff), David Platt (again, not a Calvinist, but an amazing author). C.S. Lewis was a hair away from John Calvin in doctrine, but did write some amazing stuff. Yes, the guy who wrote the Chronicles of Narnia was a Christian.
Well, that's a start. I have yet to read some books on my Kindle app by these guys, The Pursuit of God (Tozer), Let the Nations Be Glad, and Desiring God (Piper).
Hope that was enlightening to read!
He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,
(Hebrews 1:3 ESV)
Philos, (Which, I told my good friend Jim that I would explain. Philos is the Greek word for love for the brothers. Basically, I love you like my family.) Justin.
I believe I am a Calvinist. Let that sink in.
What is a Calvinist? Well, there are a bunch of different definitions. And people have a bunch of differing opinions on Calvinism. But this is my interpretation, based on what I have learned.
I believe that God made me. I believe that when God made me, he could look at my life like a picture, and see one edge of the frame, my birth, to the opposite edge of the frame, my death or His return. The picture looks like, at least in my mind, a big maze like when you were little. They had a starting point, and a destination. Between them were lines that crossed, weaved in and out of each other, and covered the entire page.
I see that as my life. The lines on the picture are choices and "lives" I have the opportunity to live. God drew all the lines, and knows which one I'm going to take. I just have the mindset that I am in control of it. That is the first aspect of Calvinism I believe in. Man has no true free will. Every choice we make, no matter how freely we believe we make it, was predetermined by God. Even the bad choices.
There is an acronym that describes it better than I can. Ladies and Gentlemen, TULIP.
T-Total Depravity: Because of the Fall, or when sin entered the world, every human is born into sin. It surrounds us and we cannot escape using our own device.
U-Unconditional Election: God does not choose who will believe in Him and be His follower by their merit, actions, or His faith in them. Rather, He determines everything by His mercy. And, that means that there are some that walk this Earth that are condemned to face His wrath.
L-Limited Atonement: This is a kinda controversial topic. Basically, what it means is that the propitiation (Big word for the pouring of God's wrath on Jesus at the Cross) and the sacrifice that Jesus made for sin is sufficient for every man, but efficient for those whom God has predetermined. In essence, if God saw fit to give everyone his unconditional grace, and all were chosen by Him, then the sacrifice that Jesus made would be enough to cover everyone's sin. But, because not everyone will be saved, the sacrifice Jesus made is enough regardless. It's kinda confusing.
I-Irresistable Grace: By far, one of the coolest things I believe. In essence, the grace and love of God is so overwhelming, that if you are destined to accept Jesus as your savior, the message of the Gospel and the saving grace that it brings will bring you to Jesus. If God desires for you to be saved, you will be saved.
P-Perseverance of the Saints: Saints here is not what you think. Saints are defined in Calvinism as those who are set apart by God, not men who are holy, or canonized, or whatever. This means that those who are in Christ truly will continue in faith with Him till the end, because God's grace can't be outdone by human efforts. That means that those who fall from faith were never truly in it to begin, or will return one day.
That's TULIP. Another cool thing is what's called Sovereign Grace. Basically, it means that before a perfect God, all of us are condemned. However, God, in His sovereign grace, is merciful to some. It goes back to what I said earlier. You're not saved based on works, or the faith God has in you. Just by His grace and power alone, and because He desires it.
Anyway, that's what I think. For some good books on it, read just about anything by John Piper, R.C. Sproul, A.W. Tozer (Who isn't a Calivinist, per se, but he has some good stuff), David Platt (again, not a Calvinist, but an amazing author). C.S. Lewis was a hair away from John Calvin in doctrine, but did write some amazing stuff. Yes, the guy who wrote the Chronicles of Narnia was a Christian.
Well, that's a start. I have yet to read some books on my Kindle app by these guys, The Pursuit of God (Tozer), Let the Nations Be Glad, and Desiring God (Piper).
Hope that was enlightening to read!
He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,
(Hebrews 1:3 ESV)
Philos, (Which, I told my good friend Jim that I would explain. Philos is the Greek word for love for the brothers. Basically, I love you like my family.) Justin.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Ink.
I have come to decide that I want a tattoo. Nothing like, ridiculous. Just something awesome.
It's gonna be on my shoulder blade, able to be covered up by a shirt. I want something symbolic. Probably a Bible verse or passage. Maybe Isaiah 6:1. I like that verse. Or something like Hebrews 12:1-2. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
The only problem is, THAT'S A LOT OF INK! AND IT WILL HURT! But, my friend Ashley (Pashley is her nickname) from Super Summer, got a tattoo. She got her right arm decked out in ink, with the verse Genesis 1:26. It's on a scroll thing, surrounded by animals and flowers and awesomeness.
I don't think getting a tattoo is wrong. I don't believe that if done for the right reasons, and getting a God-glorifying tattoo, that you're any more of a wretched sinner than you already are. (James might be proud of me for that. He likes calling us wretched.)
But, anyway. It's all talk for now. I'm gonna figure out what I want, and let it simmer for a while. That way I know I want to get it, when I finally do. Because it's there forever. The way I see it, my body is a temple of God. I just want to hang up a pretty sweet poster.
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
(1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV)
Philos, Justin
It's gonna be on my shoulder blade, able to be covered up by a shirt. I want something symbolic. Probably a Bible verse or passage. Maybe Isaiah 6:1. I like that verse. Or something like Hebrews 12:1-2. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
The only problem is, THAT'S A LOT OF INK! AND IT WILL HURT! But, my friend Ashley (Pashley is her nickname) from Super Summer, got a tattoo. She got her right arm decked out in ink, with the verse Genesis 1:26. It's on a scroll thing, surrounded by animals and flowers and awesomeness.
I don't think getting a tattoo is wrong. I don't believe that if done for the right reasons, and getting a God-glorifying tattoo, that you're any more of a wretched sinner than you already are. (James might be proud of me for that. He likes calling us wretched.)
But, anyway. It's all talk for now. I'm gonna figure out what I want, and let it simmer for a while. That way I know I want to get it, when I finally do. Because it's there forever. The way I see it, my body is a temple of God. I just want to hang up a pretty sweet poster.
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
(1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Sunday, March 20, 2011
iAssociate.
That game is ridiculous. Wanna know what I've been doing all spring break?
Monday: Finished camping with the guys, then mowed the yard for the first time this year. It felt good. Kinda.
Tuesday:Worked all evening, and I can't remember what I did during the day.
Wednesday:I worked all evening, and joked around all day.
Thursday: I opened at work that day, and then had band practice that night. Aaand, I went to my grandparents! They're so cool.
Friday: Went to the zoo with Ally, Andy, and the grandma. Took some sweeeet pics. They're on Facebook. For sure. Had work that night too.
Saturday: Slept in till like, 11. That was awesome. Just saying. Then went home from the grandparents and worked that night.
Sunday: Today. I had church, then put our shiny new grill together. Then, guess what? Work. For real. YAY!
Fun spring break, overall.
Tomorrow equals school, then working out. Gotta get back into that routine. And then I get to bust the new grill out, grilling some pork tenderloin.
I found an awesome song.
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Monday: Finished camping with the guys, then mowed the yard for the first time this year. It felt good. Kinda.
Tuesday:Worked all evening, and I can't remember what I did during the day.
Wednesday:I worked all evening, and joked around all day.
Thursday: I opened at work that day, and then had band practice that night. Aaand, I went to my grandparents! They're so cool.
Friday: Went to the zoo with Ally, Andy, and the grandma. Took some sweeeet pics. They're on Facebook. For sure. Had work that night too.
Saturday: Slept in till like, 11. That was awesome. Just saying. Then went home from the grandparents and worked that night.
Sunday: Today. I had church, then put our shiny new grill together. Then, guess what? Work. For real. YAY!
Fun spring break, overall.
Tomorrow equals school, then working out. Gotta get back into that routine. And then I get to bust the new grill out, grilling some pork tenderloin.
I found an awesome song.
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Monday, March 14, 2011
Leslie Neilson
I'm watching the Naked Gun. It's amazing. Never a doubt with Leslie Neilson. Too bad he's dead.
This weekend was fun. The guys all went camping overnight yesterday, and we all got back around 4 today. Everybody seemed to have a blast!
Needless to say, I'm pooped. Tonight's post is not that deep.
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
(James 5:16 ESV)
Philos, Justin
This weekend was fun. The guys all went camping overnight yesterday, and we all got back around 4 today. Everybody seemed to have a blast!
Needless to say, I'm pooped. Tonight's post is not that deep.
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
(James 5:16 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Thursday, March 10, 2011
I want a new pair of TOMS
Today was:
English, lunch with grandma at Chick-Fil-A, government, stop at Academy, doctor's office to check out my ear, running at the Y (2.75 miles), then eating some Subway for dinner. Now I'm on the interweb blogging.
Tomorrow equals: Math, Scuba diving, meeting about the internship, and then who knows! I have yet to make plans concerning my Friday night.
Just something to make you laugh a little. Ever wanna just laugh? Listen to some Autotune the news.
And what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
(Ephesians 1:19-21 ESV)
Philos, Justin
English, lunch with grandma at Chick-Fil-A, government, stop at Academy, doctor's office to check out my ear, running at the Y (2.75 miles), then eating some Subway for dinner. Now I'm on the interweb blogging.
Tomorrow equals: Math, Scuba diving, meeting about the internship, and then who knows! I have yet to make plans concerning my Friday night.
Just something to make you laugh a little. Ever wanna just laugh? Listen to some Autotune the news.
And what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
(Ephesians 1:19-21 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Today is blog post number 41
Let's celebrate by listing things I am excited about or am excited about prospectively.
-Italy trip this summer
-Vacation to Destin
-Super Summer (If I go)
-Summer internship
-Motorcycle
-Spring Break
-Camping on the aforementioned event.
-Marriage
-Scuba diving
-Intro to photography next semester
-Graduating college
-Vegas for my 21st with Scott
-Proving I can find a beautiful girl who wants to be mine.
Haha, it's just some thoughts.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
(Hebrews 4:16 ESV)
Philos, Justin
-Italy trip this summer
-Vacation to Destin
-Super Summer (If I go)
-Summer internship
-Motorcycle
-Spring Break
-Camping on the aforementioned event.
-Marriage
-Scuba diving
-Intro to photography next semester
-Graduating college
-Vegas for my 21st with Scott
-Proving I can find a beautiful girl who wants to be mine.
Haha, it's just some thoughts.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
(Hebrews 4:16 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
I'd like to teach the world to sing
In perfect harmony. I'd like to hold it in my arms and keep it company. Good song. Kinda. It needs to be redone for my generation.
Today equaled: English, Running at the MAC (I weigh 191 lbs! 10 lbs down in two weeks!) It doesn't sound like a lot, but I'm trying to turn it into lean muscle, lunch, government, then drove home, got changed and went to work. Today was kinda sucky at work. I got the feeling I could have been a better manager tonight, and it would have been more productive than it was. But, oh well. They couldn't pay me enough.
Tomorrow holds Math, possibly going to pick up the keys to the Acreage from my grandparents so the guys can go camping, then history, then tuning some drums, then who knows. I'm not an expert at being planned. To an extent, I like that.
My ear is still jacked up. This needs to be resolved.
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.
(James 1:2-4 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Monday, March 7, 2011
Swimmer's Ear
It's not fun kids. So tonight's post consists of videos that make me laugh and will cheer you up.
A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
(Proverbs 17:22 ESV)
Philos, Justin
A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
(Proverbs 17:22 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Sunday, March 6, 2011
It's what I felt needed to be said.
First off, play this song as you read.
So, here's what's happened, as far as I have heard. Saturday night, there was a party at Lake Granbury. Some kids that were around my age, friends of my friends, were there. Apparently, they went to sleep and a fire broke out. Everyone was able to get out except for 7 people. These 7 lost their lives. There was a candlelight ceremony held tonight.
I say that, to say this. We are never promised another day. Life is too short to "think" you're going to Heaven. I hate to be insensitive, and believe me, I know the pain that these guys are going through. But at what point do we wake up and realize that the life we have is truly a gift? God made us in His image, and put us on this Earth to glorify His name and further His kingdom.
Just something to think about. I know it's a little soon, but I don't think this truly affected me as much as it did my friends. But I truly believe that God will make Himself glorified in this. Hopefully He uses this as an opportunity for some of their friends to lay their grief at His feet and then feel His comfort.
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
(2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV)
Philos, Justin
So, here's what's happened, as far as I have heard. Saturday night, there was a party at Lake Granbury. Some kids that were around my age, friends of my friends, were there. Apparently, they went to sleep and a fire broke out. Everyone was able to get out except for 7 people. These 7 lost their lives. There was a candlelight ceremony held tonight.
I say that, to say this. We are never promised another day. Life is too short to "think" you're going to Heaven. I hate to be insensitive, and believe me, I know the pain that these guys are going through. But at what point do we wake up and realize that the life we have is truly a gift? God made us in His image, and put us on this Earth to glorify His name and further His kingdom.
Just something to think about. I know it's a little soon, but I don't think this truly affected me as much as it did my friends. But I truly believe that God will make Himself glorified in this. Hopefully He uses this as an opportunity for some of their friends to lay their grief at His feet and then feel His comfort.
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
(2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Friday, March 4, 2011
The ideal man
When I grow up, I want to be the best husband and father I can be. What does that mean you ask?
My vision of the perfect husband. He should give more to his wife than he expects in return. He should treat her like the most amazing person in the world, because to him, she is. He should want the house cleaner than his wife does. He should be more than willing to do just the simple things with her. Fold clothes, do dishes, cook dinner, vacuum the carpet, all that. I want to be the husband that my wife can bring her troubles of a long day home to, then let me just be the one to listen to her rant about it.
My vision of the perfect father is one who will do anything for his kids. He would take a bullet for them. If he didn't agree with something they wanted, but saw they were passionate about it, he'd support them. I want to be the dad my kids aren't embarrassed to bring their friends home to. I want to be involved in my kids lives. I want to intimidate my daughter's first boyfriend. I want her to know how protective I am of her.
That's just what I want. Am I perfect for all those categories? Nope. But, I'm a work in progress.
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
(Ephesians 6:4 ESV)
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.
(1 Peter 3:7 ESV)
Philos, Justin
My vision of the perfect husband. He should give more to his wife than he expects in return. He should treat her like the most amazing person in the world, because to him, she is. He should want the house cleaner than his wife does. He should be more than willing to do just the simple things with her. Fold clothes, do dishes, cook dinner, vacuum the carpet, all that. I want to be the husband that my wife can bring her troubles of a long day home to, then let me just be the one to listen to her rant about it.
My vision of the perfect father is one who will do anything for his kids. He would take a bullet for them. If he didn't agree with something they wanted, but saw they were passionate about it, he'd support them. I want to be the dad my kids aren't embarrassed to bring their friends home to. I want to be involved in my kids lives. I want to intimidate my daughter's first boyfriend. I want her to know how protective I am of her.
That's just what I want. Am I perfect for all those categories? Nope. But, I'm a work in progress.
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
(Ephesians 6:4 ESV)
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.
(1 Peter 3:7 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Thursday, March 3, 2011
When I grow up
I realize there is a list of things that I want to be when I grow up. I'm 19 years old, and I'm not grown up.
Here's what I want to be/do
Here's what I want to be/do
- Share my faith. A lot. In cool ways.
- Act in a movie
- Conduct an orchestra/wind symphony
- Be on a SWAT team
- Get my motorcycle license
- Go Skydiving
- Be Divemaster certified in SCUBA
- Run for President
- Meet the girl of my dreams
- Convince her she is the girl of my dreams.
- Take Tactical Driving lessons
- Open a restaurant.
- Own a 1969 Camaro
- Drive a Sportscar
- Shoot a Sniper Rifle
- Shoot a fully automatic machine gun.
- Sing to my wife at our wedding.
- Intimidate my little sister's boyfriend.
- Go on an African Safari
- Scuba the Great Barrier Reef
- Eat an Italian Pizza in Italy.
- Be a clothing model.
- Shake Josh Hamilton's hand
- Be in a rock band.
- Shake David Crowder's hand.
- Listen to David Platt preach
I guess that's a start.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
(Colossians 3:23-24 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
What in the world am I doing?
So, I want to run for President. Eventually. Here's the problem. Washington is so screwed up as of right now, I hate to imagine what it will be like if I get to Pennsylvania Avenue.
One thing, I think Washington needs to be like Mr. Smith, from back in the day. I think that if you want something done, you need to stand up for yourself. I mean, I almost want the opportunity to stand in front of Congress and not stop talking until I am done. Because that may be what it takes.
In other news, I want to do a photoshoot. Just some like, idk. Think plain, single color backdrops, vintage style clothes, interesting lighting, creative effects. All that jazz. Polo, khaki shorts, maybe Sperry's. I don't own those yet.
Just some good videos.
When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people, if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
(2 Chronicles 7:13-14 ESV)
Philos, Justin
One thing, I think Washington needs to be like Mr. Smith, from back in the day. I think that if you want something done, you need to stand up for yourself. I mean, I almost want the opportunity to stand in front of Congress and not stop talking until I am done. Because that may be what it takes.
In other news, I want to do a photoshoot. Just some like, idk. Think plain, single color backdrops, vintage style clothes, interesting lighting, creative effects. All that jazz. Polo, khaki shorts, maybe Sperry's. I don't own those yet.
Just some good videos.
When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people, if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
(2 Chronicles 7:13-14 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
He's the most interesting man in the world.
I'm not... trust me.
Today included: Engrish, where I got a 93 on my first paper of the semester. Yay! Then I had me some lunch, a power nap by hypnosis, and then went to State and Local Government.David Kunkle, the former police chief of Dallas, was a guest speaker today. It was interesting to hear him talk about what he wants to do if he's elected mayor of Dallas in May.
Then, I went to run at the Y. 2.75 miles and 20 crunches later, I felt pretty beat. I got home, showered, went to the bank, got some apple juice at Wally World, then came home and grilled chicken for dinner. It was delicious if I do say so myself. But, I'm biased...
Tomorrow sees math, ugh. And HISTORY! Yay! I love that class. I really do. That's why I want to minor in History. After that, I'm going to the Y to work out and who knows what else tomorrow holds.
I promise to be deeper tomorrow night. I'm just tired!
That is one of the best Youtube videos I have ever seen.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
(Colossians 1:15-20 ESV)
Philos, Justin
Today included: Engrish, where I got a 93 on my first paper of the semester. Yay! Then I had me some lunch, a power nap by hypnosis, and then went to State and Local Government.David Kunkle, the former police chief of Dallas, was a guest speaker today. It was interesting to hear him talk about what he wants to do if he's elected mayor of Dallas in May.
Then, I went to run at the Y. 2.75 miles and 20 crunches later, I felt pretty beat. I got home, showered, went to the bank, got some apple juice at Wally World, then came home and grilled chicken for dinner. It was delicious if I do say so myself. But, I'm biased...
Tomorrow sees math, ugh. And HISTORY! Yay! I love that class. I really do. That's why I want to minor in History. After that, I'm going to the Y to work out and who knows what else tomorrow holds.
I promise to be deeper tomorrow night. I'm just tired!
That is one of the best Youtube videos I have ever seen.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
(Colossians 1:15-20 ESV)
Philos, Justin
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