Dan Stallbaum

Busy...........

2010-02-24T14:49:00.005-05:00

It's been really busy and hard to blog, so I wanted to let you know that you can find me on Facebook. We have an East Coast page so you can keep up with what's going on around campus. You can also go to the bottom of our home page to sign up for our e-newsletter. See you on the weekend!

Double Blessings!

2009-10-12T12:36:00.013-04:00

Wow - it's been awhile since I've posted. I'm so glad to reconnect with you here, and I'm sorry for being absent for so long. Carolyn and I have had a wonderful summer full of ministry opportunities, traveling, refreshing times with new friends, and a fun vacation with our family. We jumped right into a busy fall season and then, as if that weren't enough, two new church members began demanding quite a bit of my attention. But, I haven't minded at all.

Kaia Jeanette and Kara Elaine ("Kara No-Hairuh" - that's how I tell them apart at the moment) were born to my daughter Jessica and her husband Femi on October 2nd. They weighed in at 6 lbs. 15 oz. and 6 lbs. 6 oz. respectively, collectively four pounds bigger than most twins at birth. The doctors were amazed at how healthy the pregnancy was and how well the twins have done. We know it's a manifestation of what we believed for all along. What a blessing to be walking in and receiving God's best!

Jess and Femi, I am so proud of you.

"Children's children are the crown of grandparents, and parents are the glory of their children." - Proverbs 17:6

If We Keep Silent

2009-06-24T15:46:00.014-04:00

Thursday is a pretty big day.

Nope – it’s not the Macy’s holiday sale, or the day I start getting my boat ready for our upcoming vacation (our pit bull is staying home with our house-sitters). It’s the day that the U.S. Senate meets to begin debating a bill that will decide what parts of the Bible that I and other pastors and teachers are going to be allowed to preach without the very real threat of legal consequences.

It isn’t often that I call attention through my blog to something happening in the political arena. However, as Christians, we have not just a right, but a responsibility, to be aware of what is happening in our country and to be involved in the process of protecting our Biblical foundations.

Thursday’s Senate session on S. 909 (companion bill that already passed in the House is H.R. 1913) will affect you, whether you stop to notice it or not. The ultimate enemy of the believer is hoping you won’t.

U.S. Senator Jim DeMint is sounding the alarm on behalf of all Americans who want to preserve our hard-won freedom of speech:
So don’t just hoist the flag in the front yard and throw a fresh burger on the grill this coming 4th of July; get involved. Hit your knees, get informed, and take some action.

“Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Benjamin Franklin, Pennsylvania Assembly, 1755

Amazing Things Happen While You Sleep...

2009-06-11T09:43:00.018-04:00

Carolyn and I have two of the ugliest cactus vines you have ever seen - for 360 days a year. However, for a few glorious days in early June each year, these vines produce some of the most beautiful flowers you have ever seen. The pictures do not do them justice.

The blossoms are 12" across and gorgeous! Both vines look somewhat snake-like as they wind their way up the palm trees to which they cling. Most people don't bother to hide their disdain for the vines and ask why we don't cut them down. Well, the way they look on the last three nights that they bloom is why. After the sun goes down they appear, and just before it comes up again in the morning they whither but, for those glorious ten hours, the beauty is amazing.

This so reminds me of the way God works. The way things look right now is not the way they are going to look. God is at work in your life, even if your life is at the "ugly" stage. He is getting ready to turn ashes into beauty, to give the oil of joy for mourning, to exchange that spirit of heaviness for a magnificent garment of praise. He is not finished with you yet! He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. If this is a dark season in your life, know without a doubt that He is most definitely at work and the bloom is just around the corner.

What are you reading?

2009-05-21T10:53:00.028-04:00

You can bury your emotions, but you need to know that you are burying something that remains alive. What we need not is not yet another “happy pill” to try to change the brain’s chemistry and make us feel good. We need coping strategies. – Dr. Caroline Leaf

I’ve had my nose in some books lately; pretty interesting stuff. I just finished "Who Switched Off My Brain? Controlling Toxic Thoughts and Emotions” by Dr. Caroline Leaf. A strong Christian, Dr. Leaf has done extensive research on the human brain, with particular emphasis on unlocking its vast, untapped potential. She expertly ties scripture to science, showing how many of the things we have thought about our thoughts are scientifically true as well as spiritually true. Chapter 6 outlines a 13-step program to rid your brain of toxic thoughts and emotions. Though it is a fairly short book, I had to reread several parts to grasp the full concept of what she was saying. It's great info, though; I encourage you to read it.

On more of a hobby note, I’m almost done with another book, "Combat Focus Shooting" by Rob Pincus. Rob developed the Combat Focus Shooting Program and the “Personal Defense” DVD series. He runs I.C.E. Training, a full-service company targeting armed professionals and those interested in self-defense with training in firearms, tactics and unarmed defense. They also provide consulting services for range operations, instructor development and training program management. Rob and his staff instructors have traveled the United States and Europe training military special operations personnel from the Army, Air Force and Navy; law enforcement and security officers; and citizens interested in family, home, and personal defense. I have some of his DVDs and I watch his TV show, The Best Defense; it airs Wednesdays on The Outdoor Channel.

How about you guys; anybody read anything interesting lately?

Finally!!

2009-05-13T11:58:00.013-04:00

I have been very hesitant to talk about this because it has been such a long, drawn-out process. Government regulations and tumultuous economic conditions turned what appeared to be a straightforward venture into a frustrating, unpredictable waiting game. However, there has now been definite progress, and the dream is on the threshold of reality. At any minute, my phone will ring with the news that the truck has finally reached Haiti!

Sitting on the boat in a port in Hispaniola, our Life-Line truck is awaiting the last stop in Haiti. The truck is full of food, mattresses, commercial kitchen equipment, and a ton of children’s clothes. We also sent a lot of our old kids’ church curriculum for the teachers to use. The minute the boat docks, I will catch a plane to Haiti to meet the truck and take it to the Life-Line Orphanage. As I write, my bag is packed and I await “The Call.”

Also this week, we have a team of 10 leaving Friday morning for the Lifeline Orphanage on a short-term mission trip. They will be gone for approximately 10 days, and it is our hope that we can get the truck and meet up with them while they are there. So pray! Pray for safety, and pray that we can finish this thing we started and bless these kids.

One of the kids who lives at the orphanage is this little boy named Abner. For those of you who aren’t going on this trip, here is your chance to meet him.

A Really Great Fish Story

2009-04-29T08:59:00.018-04:00

I have wanted to go offshore tuna fishing ever since I first heard about it. This isn't just your average offshore fishing trip out of Port Canaveral; this is the other side of the Gulf Stream, 80 nautical miles one way. This past Thursday, I was invited to go with a good friend and his crew on his 33' World Cat. We left at 3:30 a.m. and headed out in ink-black darkness. Man, was I excited! Way out in the ocean at night, the stars are amazing; you can plainly see the Milky Way and all the constellations. The sheer number of stars you can see is incredible! We also saw what was either a huge comet or a shooting star, which was so cool.

After a four-hour boat ride, we started getting close, so we turned on the radar and began to look for birds. The birds dive and eat the baitfish that the tuna are driving to the surface, which means that when you find the birds, you find the tuna. The first flock we found revealed nothing, but we spotted another flock and ran the boat over to them. We set out five trolling lines and made our first pass on this flock. One hit, then two, and, before it was finished, we had hooked five yellowfin and got every one of them into the boat. Some were too small - they have to be 27” to keep - but we were stoked because we had fish on ice! We continued to catch fish for the next two hours and then the dolphin began to bite (that’s mahi-mahi, for you lovers of Flipper). We caught five, with the largest weighing in at over 45 pounds. As we celebrated our catch, we heard the crackle of the radio. Little did we know, the morning had just begun.

We intercepted a call from a boat in distress that was taking on water and needed emergency help. We were out of radio range of the boat in distress, but overheard the response from a boat closer to us. Altogether, there were three boats in the area, so we waffled back and forth as to whether or not we were needed. In the end, we decided to go ahead and join the other boats headed for the guys who were sinking. As we plowed through the water toward the distressed vessel, a fighter jet suddenly swooped in from our left. It hovered until it locked onto its target and then dropped a large pump, by parachute, to try to save the boat. It was amazing to see the pilot drop this thing within 15 feet of that boat! As we got closer to the boat, the most amazing thing happened. One of the guys on the sinking boat yelled, “Dad!”, then dove off the sinking boat and began swimming toward us. It turned out that the man driving our boat, the one who made the decision to sacrifice fishing time to go help people in need, ended up rescuing his own son! It was quite a reunion. There was no way we could save the boat; the hull had split. Any pressure on the hull from trying to move the boat just opened it up more and water poured in. We grabbed what equipment we could and got four of the guys on board as a Coast Guard chopper circled overhead; two other guys were picked up by the other boats. We then began to fish our way home. We lost about four or five hours of our day on the rescue, but it was the best catch of the day by far.

After that, the fishing got even better. We caught a 70-pounder, a 65-pounder, a 59.6-pounder (caught by a junior angler on board who set a record for her fishing club), a 40-pounder and several in the 20-pound range. I reeled in five fish myself. What a trip! We got in that night at 10:30 p.m. with both gas tanks reading 00.0. I met some of the crew at the dock at 8:30 the next morning and helped clean the fish while a couple of guys cleaned the boat. Boy, is that tuna good! We split the fish between all the guys and everybody got some. I am so ready for the next trip!

You guys are awesome!

2009-04-13T14:38:00.006-04:00

Easter was amazing yesterday at East Coast. As I read Acts 6 last night to prepare for Morning Breath, I was interested to find that it was on strategic service. Strategic service is seeing a need in the church and then finding people to fill that need. That is what happened this past weekend at East Coast.

On Saturday night, we had a final showing of Redeeming Light and 400 people came. Every strategic service position was filled – worship team singers and musicians, greeters, ushers, nursery workers, production team members, parking lot attendants, and more. We even had a laser fail just two hours before show time but, after an electrifying trip to Orlando and back (Father, forgive us our speed as we forgave those who drove too slowly in front of us), we got a new one in place and started on time. At the end, several came forward to receive Christ for the first time; others came to rededicate their lives to following Him.

Then, Easter morning dawned. Five services later, dozens of brand new Christ-followers walked out of ECCC. We were completely full at the 8:30 a.m. service in the Parkway venue with another 60 in attendance at the acoustic service in the Avenue venue. Apparently everybody was up by 10 a.m., because we were at capacity in the Parkway and so full in the Avenue that people were watching the service on the TVs in the Parkway lobby and Avenue café. Another 400+ joined us for the 11:30 service. Not one service lacked for people who gave their time and talents to welcome guests, manage service elements, and stay on schedule.

Thanks so much to everyone, especially those of you who were there all day. You never went home; instead, you laid it all on the line. Your dedication provided a place for people to come and hear about a second chance, and those people are forever changed. In the coming weeks, as you continue to serve, those new believers will come back and find a place to learn and grow and, eventually, serve alongside you. You know, some of your stories I know; others, I don’t. If you have a moment, I’d love to hear how you got plugged in, what drew you to begin serving at East Coast.

Thanks, everybody. See you Wednesday night!

He is risen - He is Risen Indeed

2009-04-12T06:43:00.004-04:00

I am sitting in my office full of excitement. It is not quite dawn yet but people are stirring, getting ready to go to church - the dedicated and committed, the nominal and seeker. Soon, the church will be overflowing with people young and old, full of hope because He is risen. My office notification just came up; even Microsoft Office is announcing His resurrection! It is times like this that I feel so weak and ill-equipped for what I do. Lately, I sometimes feel like I have the ministry of desperation. In other words, I get out on a limb so far that only faith in God can save you. It is a humbling thought to have the opportunity to share new life with people, to point at Jesus Christ and say He is the way the truth and the life, and to have His Spirit moving on the inside of them and confirming what I am saying. But whether in weakness or in confidence, I will preach Christ. I pray that the power of His resurrection will permeate every area of your life. He is risen; He is risen indeed! Happy Easter!

What's up with Easter?

2009-04-09T10:17:00.006-04:00

When I was growing up, Easter was definitely a time to go to church. My family and I were CEOs of First Presbyterian Church of Miramar – CEOs as in "C.hristmas and E.aster O.nly." Those holidays were the two times a year we went to church. Easter was a dress-up time, and we always got new clothes. I never got to shop for my own clothes; they were always waiting on my bed when I got home from school. My mom worked at a low-level department store and got an employee discount, so all my clothes came from W.T. Grant.

Easter was also a time to color eggs, do an egg hunt and get an Easter basket. My favorite thing to get was one of those hollow chocolate bunnies, though for a long time, I thought the hollow part was a rip-off. I longed to get a solid bunny like the rich kids got…until the year I got one. It tasted terrible! I still remember biting the ears off the hollow bunny; that’s the end I always started with. By the time the head was gone, I was already experiencing remorse, knowing that bunny was not long for this world!

Fast forward to now, and Easter is an event of epic proportions. Ever since I’ve been a Christian, Easter has been an awesome time. One unforgettable year, I prayed for an infant girl who had died from SIDS Easter morning. Her parents, Jim and Connie Bean, had gotten up to get ready for church and found her in her crib not breathing, cold, and grey in color. They lived literally across the street from Swedish Medical Center, so they ran with her to the emergency room. Forty-five minutes later, we got word at the church of what had happened and I led everyone in corporate prayer. A short time later, before the service was even over, we got word that she had miraculously come back to life! The doctors cautioned her parents about possible brain damage and other complications, but she defied all odds and was healed 100%. Boy, did we have a resurrection service that Sunday! Over the years, I have seen thousands of people give their lives to Christ, and thousands of His children get right with Him on Easter.

This holiday is also a wonderful family day for us. We have lamb - how appropriate is that? Carolyn prepares a great meal for all of our family and some friends, and we bask in the afterglow of our church celebration.

What is your most memorable Easter? Take a minute to share some of your memories and favorite traditions.

God bless you, and may the power of the resurrection overtake your life!

Dan

Pause

2009-04-01T09:01:00.008-04:00

Life and blogging go together and run into each other. I am trying to share my life through this blog and life gets so busy that I forget to blog.

It's been a week since I went to Ohio to film Gary and Drenda Keesee's TV show. I got home in time for another Redeeming Light presentation here at ECCC, 4 Sunday morning services, and a baby dedication. Monday came and I kept going, getting ready for Easter, hosting a leadership meeting, preparing for Andrew Wommack's visit, planning our next teaching series, and dealing with the Broncos' decision to get rid of Cutler. That last part is a personal problem, I know.

All I know is I look up and another week has flown by. I am not complaining at all - I love my life - but sometimes, it's a blur. I am grateful for those times in worship when life slows down, and it is just me and God, and He is speaking to me. I love it when I wake up in the morning and I hear His voice about something I have been looking at in the Word (it happened this morning). I love it when, at the end of the day, my son Daniel and I get to spend some time talking about life. I love seeing Carolyn preparing Daniel's lunch in the morning; she is so beautiful and does it with such care. I love it when Matt is at the gym the same time as I am and we are not under any pressure and we can just goof around. I love when Jessica leans her head on my chest and says, "I love you, Daddy." I love it when the phone rings and I see it is Jon and I know we are going to laugh about something going on in life.

There, that felt great: to stop and think about the wonders of life and how much I am blessed. To be thankful instead of overwhelmed feels great. God, take our day; our lives are in Your hands. Help us to pause, to praise and to purpose to keep our focus where it needs to be, in Jesus' Name!

TV

2009-03-25T13:43:00.015-04:00

What an interesting day! I flew to Columbus, Ohio, yesterday and was met by Jason from Faith Life Now, the ministry of Gary and Drenda Keesee. I had been invited to tape a segment of their TV show that broadcasts on the Daystar Television Network. Their program is on every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. Not sure when this taping will air yet, though.

By the way, Gary and Drenda send their love, and are still excited about what God is doing at East Coast. In fact, they loved their time here so much they are using the set of messages that Gary preached at ECCC as the master set for "The Now Revolution" that they are duplicating.

While there, I met another pastor and his wife there for the same purpose as me: John Voner and his wife Carmen, who pastor in Omaha. Well, the segment that Gary and I did together went so well we did the next two together, and ended up doing the whole program. Then John came on and we did a 4-way tag-team discussion and it went really well. I had just enough time to grab my backpack and zigzag across the country back to Orlando. I got in late but, all in all, it was a great day full of adventure, and I met a bunch of great people who are television people. Hmmm. Filed that away for the future....

Amazing Times

2009-03-16T13:39:00.012-04:00

It is a very challenging time for the world in which we live, and I believe it is making more people seek the Lord than have sought Him in a long time. Our attendance at ECCC has been off the charts since the first of the year. People are hungry for something real, something stable and something fresh. Jesus is certainly all that - and more!

We had a great crowd last Wednesday night at the Redeeming Light experience. Between 50 and 75 people came forward to recommit or receive Jesus. One lady told me about her neighbor who came and got saved that evening. We also had a lot of young people come forward to make decisions for Christ. Remember to invite people to come this Wednesday night. The encore presentation will be March 18th at 7 PM.

We also had a fun Friends to Family meet & greet on Sunday afternoon, where we met some great new folks interested in being part of ECCC. If you want to learn more about the church, contact Jessica for details and come to the one next month.

Well, we are getting ready for Easter and then gearing up for Andrew Wommack the very next weekend. It is busy, but it is a good busy. God bless you as you keep your eyes on Jesus!

Friends

2009-03-04T09:32:00.022-05:00

The first verse that Matthew, my 29-year-old son, and I ever learned together was Proverbs 17:17a: "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." We learned only the first half, and I can still hear that little guy saying, "A friend loves at all times." He must have been in first grade and it was his very first memory verse.

I am blessed to have a great relationship with him even though we work and live in a challenging situation. You see, I am his boss, his pastor and his father, and those three roles are tough on him. I am also my daughter’s boss, pastor and father, and that carries it's own set of issues. In spite of all that, I am so proud of them and think we have a great relationship, which includes friendship. I am so blessed to have my children as friends! Daniel and I do a lot together – we are TV buddies with a whole list of favorite shows we watch together. Jon is my hunting, fishing and diving partner, and we get along great.

Even though I love this aspect of our relationships, I am still their father and I have to put that role above friendship. A good friend will not let their friendship get in the way of telling the truth and helping someone to go in the right direction. This is true not only of fathers, but of real friends. Pastor Andy Stanley of North Point Community Church stressed that we are never to put our friendship above what our friends really need. My best friend is actually a girl: my smokin’ hot wife, Carolyn. I am blessed!

I’ve talked about family who have become friends; what about friends who become family? The New English version of Proverbs 17:17 reads like this: “A friend is loving at all times, and becomes a brother in times of trouble.” I am so grateful for good friends who have become as close as family. How are your friendships? To have friends, you must be a friend. Proverbs 18:24 says, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

My life is rich and full, but it was not always this way. We moved from Colorado to Florida to be with our best friends Mike and Pat Black - they are still great friends - and then they moved to Guatemala! We had no family or friends here and we were starting from scratch. The thing that helped us the most in starting and building friendships was the church. We started going to a great church full of great people; I just so happen to be the pastor there now. It was our initial involvement in this church that allowed us to meet so many wonderful people. It can happen for you, too. Well, maybe not becoming the pastor here, but you can connect with people in a deep and impacting way. Be a friend and you will have friends. Friends are great!

Testing

2009-02-23T08:34:00.029-05:00

My blog recently went down and this is a test. If you can see this, please respond. Okay; it seems like it is working now.

It was exciting to see the response yesterday at church on the message "Does Anyone Care That I Am Addicted." I was really challenged by the message myself, and have been praying about where I am at in my heart on this subject. My prayer to the Lord is that 100% of my heart is His! Nothing shall hold sway in me but Him.

As I prepared for Morning Breath, our live morning radio broadcast, I thought it was an amazing coincidence that Proverbs 23 was the chapter for the day. Yeah, right! I do not believe it was a coincidence at all. I got to rethink my priorities and, again, offer my heart - all of it - to the Lord. I wonder, from Heaven's perspective, what percentage of my life I am really living for Him? All I know is that I want to live 100% for Him, and I want Him to do everything it takes to make it that way 100% of the time!

I am very addictive/complusive about things in general. I put everything I have into the current interest in my life, whatever that may be - shooting, diving, etc. I have to guard my heart from complusive behavior. Whenever something is taking away from my relationship with God, either that thing has to go or I have to change. I don't taper down very well; I am an all-or-nothing kind of person. There's a verse that says if your hand offends you, cut it off. That may sound extreme, but it is what I have found works for me. It does not say if your hand offends you to back down a bit and just use it moderately. It says to cut it off or, in our case, cut it out. Has stuff gotten in the way? Cut it out. Has a relationship gotten in the way? Cut it out. Has a goal gotten in the way? Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these other things shall be added unto you.

The best way for me and for you to cut off whatever our "things" are is to get so full of God, so focused on His will, so involved in His church, that we do not have the time or energy for the other things. My prayer for us is that we would give Him 100% of our hearts 100% of the time so that when we recreate, we'll do it to the glory of God. When we work, we'll do it to the glory of God. In Him we live and move and have our being. We are definitely not called to be boring. But when things take priority over God, it is the things that must go. Addictions are challenging and sometimes difficult to defeat, but remember that God's plan in Christ triumphs anything life can throw at us!

Morning Breath

2009-02-15T06:50:00.021-05:00

Well, our 35 days of seeking the Lord together as a church are at an end, but that doesn’t mean your personal seeking has to stop. There was a Christian rapper who once said, "This Puerto Rican is always seeking!"

There are so many ways to keep going in the Word! There are daily Bible readings, designed to take you through the Old Testament once and the New Testament twice in one year, using the version of your choice. Other ministries offer daily devotionals that come to your email. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some great resources for you.

One live daily devotional format is our Morning Breath radio program. Tomorrow morning will be the launch of Morning Breath’s new, 30-minute format. We’ll probably have some mixed reviews, but we feel it is the right decision for us right now. Tune in to 91.5 FM Monday morning and let us know what you think. We will be reading & discussing Proverbs 16. Read the chapter before you go to bed, get up the next morning and read it again, and then join us on the air from 7:30 to 8:00 AM. Drop back by the blog later and let us know what you think. See you on Morning Breath!

Samaritans

2009-02-11T09:52:00.014-05:00

Helping people is an amazingly complex issue that can be made simple by the spirit of God and a few guidelines. There are too many people for me or you or East Coast Christian Center to help, and the need in the world outstrips our personal resources. So who do we help?

We help the ones we can; the ones we come in contact with; the ones who God, by His spirit, directs us to. For example, should I give cash to a homeless man? When I came out of church one night, a man on a bike asked me for ten dollars to get something to eat. I offered to take him to Denny's and buy him a meal. He explained that he could buy so much more if he spent the money at a grocery store. I offered to walk the aisles of Publix with him and let him throw anything he wanted in the basket, without a ten-dollar limit, and he told me that would be embarrassing. I offered to go shop for him; I told him he could give me a list and I would bring the groceries back to him. The truth was that he wanted the money to buy alcohol, and God gave me wisdom on how to handle it. If someone needs gas, I take them to the station and buy gas; as a rule, I do not give them cash. This is not just for the homeless. If there was a need for a bus ticket it would be a ticket, not cash. An FPL bill would be handled the same way. I would pay the bill if I could; I would not give them the money.

Philippians 4 says that God will meet all our needs. The best thing you can do for someone in need is to give them Christ, teach them to believe, and help them get free them from the sin that is making them poor. It is great to help them physically - we do that in so many ways as a church and as individuals - but even greater is the gift of salvation. That has to be the end result, the ultimate goal. We must be good samaritans, but we also must be ambassadors for Christ.

You and I cannot help everyone we meet or fill every need we see. We must, therefore, be spirit-led, use good guidelines, preach the gospel, and then commit them to God's care. We also need to guard our hearts from becoming hard to the need and hurt around us. We, as a church, are receiving three to four times the amount of benevolence requests as we were last year. The need is greater than our resources, but not greater than God's resources. We, like you, must be spirit-led, use good principles, and then trust God for us and those in need. It is ultimately up to Him, and that's good, because He cares.

Luke 12:6-7 - 6 “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

doesanyonecare.net

2009-02-03T20:17:00.012-05:00

I received this email recently and have been thinking about it a lot. Tell me what you think:

Pastor Dan,

Today as I read the devotion (Mark 6:30-44 specifically), I believe the Spirit gave me a clear Word to our church about the website www.doesanyonecare.net. THIS IS IMPORTANT to our county, to our world -- that we are living in a time in history where we can truly gain an audience for the Gospel because the masses finally FEEL the NEED for a savior in this country. It talks about the multitudes who followed Jesus and the 12 after they returned from going out to preach, heal the sick and cast out demons. Jesus told them to "come aside to a deserted place and rest awhile" but the people followed them and, when they got to where they were going, Jesus saw them and likened them to sheep in need of a shepherd. His heart of compassion forced Him (and them) to give even more (spiritually) of themselves.

People are so needy right now (physically, emotionally and spiritually), and they are going to follow anyone who will help them meet their needs. We need to be ready with spiritual food for their hungry souls and downtrodden spirits, but we also must be prepared to meet their physical needs for food, help to be employable, give them a chance at jobs in our own businesses, sound counseling, show them how to get housing when their own is foreclosed upon, or just love them and let them cry on our shoulders when they are at the end of their ropes. We will need to be "all things to all people," as Paul said. We have to be ready and we have to give our all when the time comes. The disciples were going to send the multitudes away when they discovered they had needs they couldn't physically meet. BUT, Jesus said, give me what you have and God will make it enough for them all to "eat and be filled." We've talked about believing God for our own needs. But now we have to be ready to believe for others’ needs, too.

Well, that's what I believe I heard; I submit it to you because you are the shepherd in my flock (smile). As always, I will continue to intercede for our body to be ready AND-- I'll be ready to help when called upon (by the GREAT GRACE of my Lord). Thanks for the input.

I'm curious; what is your input?

Fast and Furious

2009-01-25T07:30:00.007-05:00

We are two weeks into our time of fasting, with only one week of fasting left to go. Now is the time to press into Jesus! It seems too easy to be distracted, to forget why we have set aside time to be with Him. Don't let up. Keep pushing. Lay hold of that for which you were laid hold of. Don't stop when the answers you seek are in reach!

Hebrews 10:35-39 (NKJV) says, "Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise: 37 “For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry. 38 Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” 39 But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul."

That scripture says it all. Let's finish what we started! More is happening than you can see. God is at work behind the scenes and in the Spirit, changing the outcome. We are more than conquerors through Christ. He is on your side and He will finish what He has started; just don't quit. Life is a bunch of choices. Keep choosing life!

You are Unstoppable

2009-01-19T08:34:00.007-05:00

I love the connections I have in my life, the great people God has brought into my life to encourage and strengthen me. But, even more than that, they are great friends, and it is great to have men in my life who care about me.

I am at a conference in Orlando at the moment and there are four men with me who I respect and who add so much to my life. I sure the conference will be beneficial, but even the ride over has been great. When men who love God get together, good things and even God things happen. I have never made a great connection while sitting on my couch or in my Lazy Boy. My comfort zone is not a connection zone. Neither is yours.

We just had "Get A Life Day" this past Sunday at East Coast and we had a lot of people step out of their comfort zone and sign up for a Life Group. I am so encouraged when people connect with one another. Church on Sunday morning was never meant to be a catch-all for relationships for the church. We need to get to know each other. Life groups provide a point of connection for people to easily get involved. It's not too late to contact a leader and check out a group. Visit our Life Group site or contact our Life Group Coordinator and we'll help you get connected.

New Year, New Look - Unstoppable!

2009-01-11T21:54:00.011-05:00

What does pulling a tablecloth out from under a set of fine china have to do with church? I have one word for you: UNSTOPPABLE, Newton's laws of motion and our new series (okay - more than one word, I know, but I am excited!).

The series "Unstoppable" started this Sunday, and we had a home-run-grand-slam type of response. Everyone was pulling on the Word and people were encouraged. We began our time of prayer and seeking God and I am so excited about the adventure. Attendance at church on Sunday was off the charts for all four services. People are hungry to press in and experience God on a personal level.

Our newly-painted sanctuary looks great and we aren't even all the way finished. Get on eastcoastdevo.com and start your thirty-five days of devotion. It is not too late to start your fast, either. The devotion site has a lot of good information, both spiritual and practical, on a Daniel Fast.

Come on and join the adventure!

Fast This!

2009-01-07T13:35:00.011-05:00

This is a fish Jon got while diving at the beginning of the week. It is a Gag Grouper, also called a Grey Grouper. Weighing in at 25lbs, this is what you call a trophy fish!

Speaking of food, I have gotten a lot of questions and emails about fasting. On our podcast, you can watch or listen to what I taught about fasting this past Sunday. We'll be airing that same message this coming Friday on our Morning Breath radio program. If you prefer, you can order a DVD or CD of this message; just contact the office or stop by the resource desk on the weekend. For some great meal ideas, visit here and here. And last, but certainly not least, pick up your devotional from the church or subscribe to the online version; there is a lot of good information on fasting.

See you Sunday!

Fasting Questions

2008-12-31T18:23:00.008-05:00

Corporate fasting is all through the bible - Jonah when he went to Ninevah and warned them of judgment a corporate fast was part of the solution. There is a Bible precedent for corporate fasts in the Old Testament. God Himself commanded multiple fasts as part of the law He gave Moses. One fast was a partial fast, at Passover where Jews were asked to fast from leavened bread. This was a corporate fast -- everyone was expected to participate. And they were expected to think about how God had delivered them from bondage in Egypt when they observed this fast. It was not a secret, but it was a holy corporate fast for all of God's people to follow.

Then there is the fast of Yom Kippur, the "Day of Atonement" where all of Israel is commanded to fast and pray for atonement for their sins. This was given in Leviticus 16:29 and again in Leviticus 23:17. These verses say: "This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month you must deny yourselves [or must fast] and not do any work, whether native-born or an alien living among you." And "The tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. Hold a sacred assembly and deny yourselves, [and fast] and present an offering made to the Lord by fire." In other words, God called a corporate fast for Yom Kippur.

God cannot be opposed to corporate fasts because He explicitly ordained a couple of them in the law.

The Bible history books give us examples of God-ordained leaders calling corporate fasts for special purposes. For instance, Ezra called a fast in Ezra 8:21,23: "Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions.... So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer." Did you get that -- the people came together to corporately fast and pray, and God heard and answered their prayers.

We also see New Testament examples of corporate prayer. One of them is from Acts 13:1-3 where Paul and Barnabas were commissioned and sent to the Gentiles: "Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, 'Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away."

As far as people getting their focus right it has to be all about Jesus but it is normal for people with shared experience to talk about their experience and that includes fasting. If it becomes "whoa is me" talk or bragging "look at me" talk then it is wrong.

On your mark.............

2008-12-28T18:28:00.005-05:00

Jon sent me this picture of his first real Christmas goose. He got it hunting in Tennessee, where he is with Lauren visiting her family.

Well, I have been away from the blog for the holidays. It has been so good to spend time with family and friends! We had great services at East Coast; lots of people raised their hands to receive Christ at the Christmas Eve services. This was the first year we have done three Christmas Eve services. It was nice to speak live at our video venue, the Avenue Worship Center.

We are getting close to the first of the year and we all need to be thinking about pressing into His presence. We will be starting our 2009 Devotional Guide on January 11th and going for 35 days. For the first 21 days, we will be doing a Daniel Fast. How are you going to fast? Does the Daniel Fast work for you? Would you ever consider going on a complete, long-term fast (more than three days)? People do many different things during a time of fasting; I'm interested in what you do.

Merry Christmas Eve Eve

2008-12-23T11:01:00.007-05:00

Only two shopping days until Christmas! Time is short; things are getting busier. I've heard the Mall is a zoo. If there is a recession, you sure couldn't tell yesterday by the amount of shoppers there!

Christmas Eve is my favorite time as a family. I cook a huge seafood feast. We go to services at East Coast Christian Center, then come home and eat together, after which we each open one package of our choosing. It is wonderful!

I was thinking about how the seafood chowder thing happened in my life. Here's the story:

When I was in seventh grade both parents and my older sister worked full time. I loved the Galloping Gourmet with Graham Kerr and asked my Mom if I could cook for the family. She instantly hired me and I began to cook five days a week for the three of us, for $5.00 a week. If there was something we could afford or I was capable of cooking a recipe from the show, I would cook it that night. In high school I had vocational school, so I was home just after 10 am and didn't have to be at regular school until after the Galloping Gourmet and shopping. So, that year I had gone fishing a couple of days before Christmas with Michael Dodich and his dad, and I caught a huge king fish. While trying to figure out how to get some use out of my great fish, Michael's dad said he had made a fish chowder with king fish and he would give me the recipe. I took his recipe and went to the library, where I came up with my own hybrid recipe that I've have been tweaking ever since. That was over 40 years ago and I have made it for my family almost every year since then.

Now it's your turn: What is your Christmas Eve tradition and how did it happen?

Diving with friends

2008-12-18T21:29:00.008-05:00

Jon, Jeff Dean, Rick Dean and I are going to Jupiter in the morning to get wet and shoot some fish. Rick will be taking pictures like the one you see here. On the ride down, we all laugh like crazy and enjoy the fellowship; on the way home, we are quiet because we are so tired. When we get back, we are having an early Christmas with Jon, Lauren, Emma and Aubrey so they can go to Tennessee and be with Lauren's family. Dinner, family and Christmas presents - priceless.

Do you have a traditional Christmas meal? If so, what is it?

On the Eighth Day of Christmas

2008-12-17T18:29:00.009-05:00

Only eight days until Christmas! We are shopping for all the things we need for family and friends. I got something today I have been looking for, for almost two months and I am victorious! It is something someone really wanted. We have some family going away for Christmas, so we are doing a Christmas for them this Friday night. Let's all pray for safe travel for all our loved ones.

Now, on to my question for this blog: what is your favorite Christmas tradition? You know - what do you like to do when it's Christmas time? For the last few years, it's been "Elf" for us. Most of Will Ferrell's movies aren't fit to watch, but I think "Elf" is a hit; we watched it as a family this week. On Christmas morning, we read the Christmas story from the Bible and take communion together. These are some of the things we do; how about you?

P.S. About some of the recent blog comments....be nice to each other. There's been a lot of passion expressed lately, and I respect passion. If we were all the same, it would be boring.

Eleven Days 'til Christmas

2008-12-14T07:04:00.015-05:00

I know you're wondering what kind of crazy Christmas picture this is. You'll see; read on.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me eleven pipers piping. What?? How in the world will that help? There are only 11 days left until Christmas! Are you ready?

I am closer now than I was last week, but I am still running. We are putting up our tree tonight and I may be able to finish the outside lights later today. I got my most important gift - the one for Carolyn - this week. I think she will like it. She is crazy about music and we have had Christmas music on at our house for 10 days. She likes most of it but still turns off some of it. I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas. I kind of like it. How about you?

We want to know your favorite Christmas carol or Christmas song. Also, what, in your opinion, is the absolute worst one? Let's hear it!

Who who who?

2008-12-09T09:55:00.008-05:00

We've been talking here about favorite Christmas memories, and we've had some really good responses. I, for one, am going to try the draw-the-name-out-of-the-hat prank next year (after everyone forgets about it!).

The question I have for today is not a "what" but a "who." Who is that person in your life with whom you need to reconnect? Who do you need to reach out to? Who is it that needs a word of encouragement? Is there a black sheep in your family that needs a shepherd's help? Who do you need to forgive? Of whom do you need to ask forgiveness?

And the Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" And let him who thirts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. - Revelation 22:17 (NKJV).

Ho Ho Ho!

2008-12-03T18:34:00.007-05:00

I want to ask you a question: What was your favorite Christmas memory and why? Over the next few weeks, I will be doing a Christmas series and I have been asking everyone I know about their favorite Christmas memory. For Carolyn, it was a trip we took on Christmas Eve to The Children's Hospital in Denver. We sang carols and handed out gifts to the kids who were too sick to go home for the holidays. We read the Christmas story and shared Christ with them. It was an awesome Christmas!

What about you? What was your favorite Christmas and why?

Thanks

2008-11-26T11:48:00.012-05:00

I am so blessed! My wife is amazing, my children are exceptional, my grandchildren are extraordinary...I even have a great dog!

I went diving yesterday and a guy I see quite often on the boat - a spear-fisherman - was noticeably down. I asked him what was going on and he told me that he lost his job. $90k had just gone away and it was totally unexpected. He had no idea what he was going to do. As the day wore on, I just kept talking to him about things he loved. Diving, spear-fishing, boating and such were things that came easy at first. We went further, though, and talked about his boys; I think he said they are 6 and 8 years old. He loves his boys, you could tell. The more he talked about what he had, the more his countenance changed. By the end of the day, he had really shaken off the depression that was trying to grab his heart. He still has the issues, but he is now seeing them in the light of how blessed he is. His wife still has a job. He is a photographer and there is work out there if he will seek it out. It was amazing how a little thankfulness equaled a large dose of hopefulness. We ended the day buzzing about the fish we shot or, as in his case, the fish he missed! We had a lot to be thankful for and, after this weekend, he is going out and getting that new job.

Drop me a line and tell me some of the things you are thankful for. Your comments will encourage me and everyone else who reads them.

Minority Report

2008-11-23T07:56:00.008-05:00

Have you ever wondered if there is a tension dial? Doesn't it seem like the tension level has been turned up? Everyplace I go and everyone I talk with seems to be a little more tense than usual. The tension has been trying to get to me, also. The world we live in right now is full of negative reports; the news is a constant stream of negativity. Remember when gas prices were the biggest problem our nation was facing? Looking back, the gas price thing might have been blown out of proportion just a bit. Gas is now at $1.83, the lowest in who knows how many years, but with all the other things going on it is kind of hard to celebrate. Carolyn (thank God!) has thanked God for the falling gas prices 50 times in the last month. Now, though, we have a lot more than gas prices going on.

In Numbers 13, Moses sent out 12 spies to spy out the land. Ten came back with a report that was accurate and factual according to the circumstances that were presented. There were, indeed, giants in the land and walled cities. There were dozens of reasons why the Promised Land was a difficult place in which to move. But there was a minority report: two of the spies believed God. God had promised Israel the land. He had said He would give it to them, and drive out the giants and give them the walled cities. In the long run, the majority had their way - for a while. But, eventually, the minority became a majority because they chose to believe God.

In these tense times, you can either fill yourself with the world's report or fill yourself with God's report. To quote an old song, "Whose report will you believe? We shall believe the report of the Lord."

Are you a volunteer or a servant?

2008-11-14T09:19:00.009-05:00

Every year, we say "thank you" to those who strategically serve at ECCC. We have an Honor Gala where we celebrate servanthood. Notice that I do not use the term
"volunteer." Volunteerism is alive and well in almost every facet of our society. You cannot win a beauty pagent without a resume' that includes volunteering. The Scouts and other organizations all promote volunteering as a good thing, and it is. It is just not for the church. God does not call us to give Him time, or do something for Him. Jesus didn’t recruit volunteers, he called people to serve.

2 Corinthians 4:5 NKJV - For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.

God offers freedom to people through a choice. Whom will you serve, Pharaoh or God?
Bob Dylan said, “You're gonna have to serve somebody...it may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you're gonna have to serve somebody.” In a spiritual sense, we are all slaves – either to sin or to Christ.

As a Christian, you are not just a member of a social gathering or club; you are a servant of God serving Christ and His church. You are a servant and, because of that, we spend money (half what we have spent in the past) to entertain, thank and honor those who are servants at ECCC. Tonight we will laugh and maybe cry, but in all the excitement I want to make sure I tell you, on His behalf: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Things are heating up!

2008-11-12T11:10:00.025-05:00

There is so much going on in my life right now! It has been a few weeks since I prayed the prayer, "God, ruin me" and I am believing that He is continuing to do so. Though it is hard to "feel" right now because things are so busy, I am convinced that He is honoring that prayer. There is a lot happening around the church as we gear up for the bustle of the holiday season. I have been reviewing plans for the Parkway building, making a schedule for sermon series for next year, and working on the 2009 devotional. There are a bunch of weddings (four just this past weekend!), Thanksgiving is almost here, and Christmas has left the station and is bearing down on us! All busyness aside, I love what I do. I love my family, I love this church, I love this country.

We are heading into a season of change (our leaves don't change here but our weather will be the best in the country for the next six months!) We have a president-elect standing in the wings ready to preside over this country. The wind is still whipping in the financial field. I spoke to a friend in that industry yesterday and he told me how much anger he is seeing everywhere he goes. I asked him what to pray for and he said to pray for people not to be taken advantage of during this time of fear and panic. Now that is the kind of financial advisor you need: one who asks for prayer; not for himself, but for the people. Gas prices are going down way down; whodda thunk it? Not everything ends up the way we think. Change is coming, so I am keeping my eyes on The One who does not change - Jesus.

The Morning After

2008-11-05T09:19:00.017-05:00

Hello, everyone. It is the morning after the election and I really have mixed emotions. I know a lot of us didn't vote for the man who won, but many of us did. That also would have been the case if McCain had won.

We are a nation that is divided. This is nothing new; this has been the case for as long as I can remember. The popular vote - or the actual votes - of individuals, as opposed to the electoral college vote, was very close. But Obama won the electoral college vote at a rate of over 2 to 1, which is a landslide victory. The problems we have as a nation did not go away when the clock struck midnight. They did not go away when Obama gave his acceptance speech. The problems he will face as the President of the United States are large and varied.

Barack Obama needs our prayers. America needs our prayers. You need to be on your knees, crying out to God for our next president, and the members of the House and Senate. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) says, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

My prayer is that the job of President of the United States will drive Barack Obama to his knees. That God will speak to his heart, direct his mind, and surround him with godly counselors. That every area of his life and his policies that are not in line with the Word of God will be resisted, and every area of his life and policies that are in agreement with the will of God will be empowered. I pray that Roe v. Wade will be overturned, that abortion will not be expanded but will be outlawed; that gay marriage would not be accepted and that morality will matter. The direction we go as a nation will determine whether or not we walk in the blessing that God has for the nation that fears Him.

I shared a message Sunday morning about voting our values. Fifty percent of the message did not deal with the issues; it dealt with the Church and our responsibility to win the lost. When we change hearts through the good news of the gospel, we will change this nation. I am encouraged this morning to see that racism did not stop Obama from becoming president. The climate of disapproval for Bush and an economic meltdown created an environment ripe for both a party and presidential change. The only way I could see that Barack Obama could have lost is if people's prejudice had kept them from voting for a black man. It is awesome to see how far we have come as a nation, racially. It is a miraculous change from when I was a kid and there were still bathrooms and water fountains for people of color and others labeled "whites only." Thank God those days are gone! It is a new day, and change is coming. It is not the end of the world; we have had many leaders before and we will again. Leaders change, but the Word of the Lord endures forever.

My confidence is not in a candidate or in our government. I would feel the same way about John McCain if he had won. Our problems are too great and our situation to dire for a man or men to help. My hope is in Who is in God's house, not who is in the White House. Today is a day for faith in God. I have hope because "In God We Trust." Look up, for your redemption draws near!

Thank you

2008-10-31T09:37:00.006-04:00

It is Pastor Appreciation Month and people have been blowing my socks off. My staff had a new pulpit/table made for me that is the coolest I have ever seen. People have been giving me encouragement like crazy, with gifts galore, and the church took up an offering for me while I was in Destin. It was a huge blessing. These things make my family's life so much easier and full. It helps us not only to be blessed but to be a blessing, as well. We thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for your love and the ways in which you have expressed it. I have the best job in the world, at the best church in the world, full of the best people in the world.

Thank you, Jesus! You are the great shepherd. I appreciate You and thank You for leading me and teaching me. Thanks for Your forgiveness and love.

Ruin Me

2008-10-26T16:50:00.006-04:00

I prayed a prayer last week that has been having an affect on me. Ruin me. It was something I read in a book by Craig Groeschel called "it." I shared a little about it today in the service. We know the character of God so it is safe to have Him ruin us, because He is always after our good. He would never ruin us financially, physically or spiritually. I prayed the prayer because I am a little too hard-hearted. I guess I always thought I needed to be the strong one. As a pastor, it was easy to fall into that trap. By being the strong one, I rarely gave in the pressure or the hurt of a situation. After all, if I didn't keep it together, how will I help those who are struggling? That thinking led me to build a wall around my heart and I don't like it. I would rather feel the situation and weep with you than not feel it and stand strong. Weeping isn't a sign of not believing or standing. Since I prayed, I have wept more than I have in the past year. God is so faithful to answer when we pray. God, keep it up. I don't want it to stop. Ruin me.

P.S. I hope the Bronco's latest trials are not a part of the process - lol!

Destin

2008-10-20T19:39:00.012-04:00

I just returned home from Destin, Florida, where I had a wonderful visit at Shoreline Church. I spoke in the two morning services and at an evening leadership meeting. Eric and Darlene are doing a great job building the kingdom of God in North Florida. They have gathered a wonderful bunch of people to add to the ECCC team that helped start Shoreline just a few years ago. They are using innovative ways to reach out to their community. While I was there, I realized how much I have missed Eric and his family. Darlene seems to be so relaxed with who she is and what she's doing. Eric has slid right into the senior pastor role without losing his sense of humor and creativity. Michaela is an amazing young woman whose heart is on the mission field. And not just any mission field; she has fallen in love with Bali, Indonesia. Skylar looked way too grown up and it was great to see him so touched by the service on Sunday morning. Shoreline is making a difference and it is awesome to see it and have a small part in it. I took some video but I can't seem to get it loaded; I will try tomorrow when I get to the office. We saw old friends and made new ones; we enjoyed wonderful fellowship, talking late into the night.

Well, I was finally able to load a video from our team retreat, so I am trying again with the video from Destin. This was taken at a leadership meeting with the Shoreline team; it's actually the life group that Eric and Darlene leads for servants in their church. I am writing this while the video is processing and it looks like it's going to work. You can see a short clip of Eric; Esther is up singing; Graham is playing the guitar. Darlene is across the room and Hunter is to my right. Sam is in the shot where I tried to get the whole room, and the final shot is me shutting off the computer camera. I am not talking because we are worshipping.

Because of You

2008-10-16T08:04:00.018-04:00

We had an incredible time of becoming relationally naked at our "Seeking the Lord As a Team For 2009 Retreat" (long titles make things seem more important). I started a comment that went around the room in an amazing way. I opened with, "Because of you.........." and then followed that statement with something good I had experienced in life because of someone in that room. People started crying almost right away. Some people could hardly choke out the words, "because of you." It was an amazing time. It really helped me to see how valuable people are, how much we need each other and how much real love we have for one another.

I am reminded of two great words in the Bible. I logically understand them but, at times, go right past the emotional power of them: one another. The phrase "one another" is found throughout the entire Bible, in both a negative and positive context, 198 times. Leviticus 25:14 NKJV - And if you sell anything to your neighbor or buy from your neighbor's hand, you shall not oppress one another. John 15:12 NKJV - This is my commandment that you love one another as I have loved you. Powerful things happen when we are with one another.

Time to Dream

2008-10-14T12:32:00.010-04:00

We are preparing to go away for a few days and seek the Lord for the new year. 2009 is on its way and will arrive, ready or not. I have been so busy it has been hard to think ahead lately. I am really looking forward to slowing down and having the opportunity to dream.

It is always good to get away with the ministry team and key people on staff and hear their heart, see their dreams and hear from God through them. We are blessed with the best staff I have ever seen anywhere in the country. Pray for us. We need to hear and obey.

Daring to Dream.

Needing to Hear.

Trying to Obey.

Dan

God's Grace

2008-10-11T21:38:00.027-04:00

I went to a funeral for a tiny little girl yesterday, Amiya Brielle Carroll, the daughter of Beka Carroll and Glen Davis. She was born with a chromosome deficiency that caused some major heart defects, and she only lived seven days.

I am so proud of her family. Shawn, her grandfather, expressed his grief and his faith in a profound way. Her grandmother, Pam, sang and gave glory to God while everyone else joined in and sang with her. Her Aunt Leah and Uncle Josh expressed what joy they received in her short life and they also showed great faith in God. Family friend Sarah Peters wrote and sang a song that was touching, faith-filled and amazingly sung. Even Beka stood and thanked everyone for their love and care. Overall, it was a very difficult situation that was filled with beauty and grace. My prayers go out to the family.

That was the second funeral I have been to for a tiny little person. The first one I presided over, and it was tough. I am reminded of the promises of two scriptures: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28); and Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain (John 12:24). God's purpose in Amiya will be seen in the changed lives here as the effect of her life produces much.

Walk by faith and not by sight

2008-10-08T17:47:00.008-04:00

Someone once said that no news is good news. Lately, it seems more like there is just no good news. "When the world is shaken and nothing stands, I will hold on to Your hand - refuge" is a line from a song we used to sing a lot. Holding onto God is the right thing to do, now and always.

It is hardest for those who were not walking in faith all along; now they try to turn it on when times get tough. It was the time to seek Him then and it is the time to seek Him now, and if it takes a crisis to get you started, so be it. But once you start, stick with it! The Scripture says that He will shake everything that can be shaken until that which cannot be shaken remains (Hebrews 12:25-28). We can have certainty in a world that has an uncertain future. How? Because God has promised us a bright future in Jeremiah 29:11.

Has debt got you captive? Keep sowing and believing that He will bring you through. Walk in faith, but use common sense, too. Debt is not the best way to go; save and purchase outright. Get by with one car. Conserve. Share a house with another family member so you both can get out of debt and then walk in the strength of being debt-free. Paul told the Philippians, during a very uncertain time full of corruption, that God would meet all their needs according to His riches in glory.

What do you see when you close your eyes, when you look through your eyes of faith? Do you see yourself living in God's blessing? Walking in His favor? Experiencing His increase? If you keep your eyes on the Word, stop focusing on the bad news, and walk by faith, you will experience the goodness of God.

El Tepehuan's #5 Chile Relleno Platter

2008-10-04T13:08:00.007-04:00

I am proud to produce some of the most powerful footage ever created on this blog. I wish I could add taste and smell, but the video will have to do. This is a restaurant in Englewood, Colorado, that was established in 1978. I went to this restaurant as a young man just moving to Colorado, before it was El Tepehuan. I have 30 years of Mexican food experience, and it is still the best Mexican food I have ever tasted.

Colorado Springs, Cripple Creek

2008-10-02T16:47:00.006-04:00

This has been such a great week. We have been enjoying each other and the conference at Andrew Wommack's facility. Bob Yandian has been a blessing, as well as Andrew. We got to spend a little time with Charlie and Jill Lablanc, too. We saw an old friend named Larson Purdue who used to pastor in Kitt Carson; he has moved to Colorado Springs and has a church that has 150 more people than the whole town he's from.

We drove up to Cripple Creek and the aspens are beautiful. Everyone around here says they are the best they can ever remember. I don't have my cable for my camera so the pictures will have to wait. We are headed back to Denver to see some of Carolyn's family and to celebrate her sister Debbie's birthday. Out for now!

Conference

2008-09-30T10:15:00.009-04:00

Day two in Colorado! The #5 at El Tepehuan was amazing. I almost cried.

We took a tour of Andrew's 110,000 square feet facility and it is beautiful. It has been exciting to meet so many new people and catch up with old friends I haven't seen in awhile. We met two different couples from Florida who visited our church when Andrew was at ECCC this past spring.

Littleton, Colorado

2008-09-29T11:27:00.005-04:00

We're here! We arrived safely in Littleton - Highlands Ranch, to be exact. We spent the night with Carolyn's sister and now we are making our way to Colorado Springs for Andrew Wommack's Ministers' Conference. Stay tuned for conference updates and much more this week!

Go for it!

2008-09-28T07:44:00.015-04:00

Wow, what a week! I would have to say that the Financial Revolution Conference we hosted this past week was the best conference I have ever attended. We are so blessed to be able to have things like that at ECCC. Gary and Drenda Keesee are real people, full of revelation and anointing as well as compassion and wisdom. We have made plans for me to go to Ohio and minister in their church as well as spend some personal time together as families next summer.

Nery Young's funeral was yesterday at Our Saviour's Catholic Church in Cocoa Beach (at the request of her family); it was well-attended. I was blessed to be able to spend some time with Nery's daughter and her adopted son. They had some questions about the accident, and I was so thankful to be able to tell them she didn't suffer. Her two sisters, their families, and Nery's children will be with us today as we remember Nery in a tribute during our services. We'll also be sharing the third message in our current series, 30 Days to Live. I believe that God will turn it into a day of impact.

Carolyn and I leave for Colorado this afternoon to attend Andrew Wommack's Ministers' Conference in Colorado Springs. Fall in Colorado is my favorite time of the year and we are blessed to be able to be going at this time. This picture was taken at Maroon Bells, a beautiful spot in the mountains of Colorado. My first stop will be at El Tepehuan for some of the best Mexican food in the WORLD. We are also looking forward to celebrating Carolyn's sister's birthday with her while we're there. While at the conference, we will be presenting DVDs of Redeeming Light to all the pastors who attend. Pray for favor with this project, for open doors to take it around the country so it can win the souls it was meant to win.

I'm sure your week is going to be as busy as mine. God, help us to say the right things, do the right things, and live the right way, making the most of our relationships and opportunities.

Nery Young

2008-09-24T10:49:00.010-04:00

"30 Days to Live," the Sunday morning series I've been teaching for the last few weeks, took on new meaning for our church family this past Monday night. We had just finished a service where several people were filled with the Spirit. One of our prayer counselors, Nery Young, left the church to walk the short distance home. She never made it. Nery was struck and killed by a vehicle on Courtenay Parkway, right in front of our church. Just a few minutes before, she had been at the front of the stage, dancing before the Lord in worship and laying hands on people to receive the Holy Spirit.

Nery turned 82 years old on September 10th. Two Sundays ago, she came up to me before the service and asked, "How old do you think I am today, Pastor Dan?" "Fifteen?" I teased. She laughed and said, "No, I am 82 today!" Nery is the one person I know who lived like she was dying. Anyone who met Nery got an opportunity to meet the Lord. She prayed for the sick regularly. I remember one service when I began coughing during worship; the next thing I knew, Nery had me by the throat and was praying for healing.

Let's pray for her family. Let's pray for the young man who was driving the vehicle, that he will not be defined by this accident. We rejoice that Nery is now dancing in heaven in the presence of God. Knowing Nery, she's probably rearranging a few things, too!

Financial Revolution

2008-09-21T07:01:00.007-04:00

I redid the landscaping bed in our front yard this Saturday in between rain showers. Carolyn had a bunch of gals over for a life group and after I studied in the morning I needed to get out of their hair, so it was time for a yard adventure. I have had a Plumeria (from Hawaii) in that bed ever since we moved into the house. It has been a dud. It blew over twice and was completely defoliated by hurricanes three times, and because of that it never blooms. So after the last storm, Fay, I decided to cut it down. I replaced it with a Pony Tail Palm and redid the Liriope as well; I just need to refresh the rocks in the bed. A new fountain would be nice, but that will happen after Gary Keesee's Financial Revolution Conference.

Gary Keesee is here today and I am so excited! I keep thinking about all the testimonies that will spring up because of this conference. This conference has the highest potential for changed lives over any other conference that we have done in a long time. I am excited about getting to know Gary and seeing the effect that the word and revelation that he brings will have on all those who participate. So participate by making plans to be here for all four nights - Sunday night @ 6 pm and Monday-Wednesday @ 7 pm - for your own financial revolution!

Skubalon Happens

2008-09-18T09:41:00.014-04:00

The Word of God paints some really graphic pictures. Paul told the Galatians in Galatians 3:1 NKJV, "O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified?" These people hadn't physically seen the crucifixion. But Paul had painted a picture so vivid that they had seen it through the words and emotion, coupled with the anointing. Now that is powerful preaching!

Many times, we miss powerful pictures because of the differences between biblical and modern times, and Jewish culture and American culture. While at the Garden Tomb in Israel years ago, I heard a Jewish believer talk about weddings in Israel. Culturally, a son would find a bride and then build a place for her to live on the top of his father's house. I had seen many houses with unfinished second stories, with flat roofs and rebar sticking up. When his father said it was done, or sufficient for the son's new bride, he would say, "Go get her." The Jewish believer applied this custom to what the New Testament has to say, things like, "I go to prepare a place for you" and "in my Father's house are many mansions." Also, "No man knows the hour...not even the Son" because the son waits for his father's approval before he goes to get his bride. It was a wonderful cultural picture that helped me understand the Bible better.

That same thing happened this last week as I studied for our series "30 Days to Live." Craig Groeschel from LifeChurch.tv has a wonderful series on the subject that I have been listening to. One of his points was from Phil 3:8 NKJV: "Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ." I began to develop it further as I realized what picture the word was really painting. The word "rubbish" in the NKJV version of the Bible is the word "skubalon" in the Greek, which is translated "dung" in the KJV version of the Bible. "Dung" is close, but still not as strong in meaning as the original word. It would be a word that would be too rough for our speech today as Christians; it is the s--- word in the original language. The comparison between everything the world has to offer and what God has given us is like comparing what fills your septic tank with what is in your refrigerator, or what is at the dump to what is at the store. But even these comparisons are weak compared to what God has given us, so He used a very strong word picture. I have included a video we made to help you get a picture of what the word is saying.

Remember, even though skubalon happens, God is good and has prepared good works beforehand for you to walk in them.

Everything is bigger in Texas

2008-09-14T07:42:00.005-04:00

Our prayers go up to God and out to Texas during this time. Ike smashed into the coast, causing flooding and wind damage. The pictures of the damage are just coming in as I get ready for Sunday morning.

I took Daniel diving yesterday and we had a great time. I shot a small Mangrove Snapper on my first dive and then Daniel gave me the signal for shark. As I looked up, I saw a first. It was an 8' Greater Hammerhead, the first hammerhead I have seen while diving. A beautiful creature to be sure! It checked us out and then left. We got a few fish and it was fun; the visibility was great, it was very clear. My son Jonathan went with us and shot a 10-lb Mutton Snapper, his personal best.

The devotion was good this morning. It reminded me of what God has done in my life and how He has changed me. Help me, Lord, to live out all that You have put in.

Are you red or blue?

2008-09-10T09:54:00.008-04:00

The two main political parties are represented by two animals and two colors (no jokes about the animals). Red represents the Republican Party and blue represents the Democratic Party. Are you red or blue? The better question is, are you true? When voting in the upcoming general election, Christians need to stay true to their Scriptural convictions. Do the candidates' positions on issues align with what the Word of God says about those issues? Have they voted for or against Biblical truth? If the candidate professes to be a Christian, does that person's actions reflect their declared beliefs? These are not always easy questions to answer. However, it is up to us to seek out the answers and act accordingly.

I would not hesitate to vote my conviction over a party affiliation. I have to be on guard against over-negatizing (I know that's not a word, but it should be) everything about the party to which I don't belong and over-positizing (see above) everything about the party that I do support. It is like being a football fan. Everything "your" team does is right because it is "your" team. Every player the team releases is the worst; every player they sign is the best; every decision they make is right, all because that is "your" team. It's like the mom who refuses to see the truth about a wayward son because she is blinded by her relationship with him. Don't let your relationship with a party blind you to its faults. Also, don't let your lack of relationship with a party or candidate blind you to the positive things that that candidate brings to the table.

Don't vote red or blue, vote true. Vote your Biblical convictions.

TGIF

2008-09-05T09:18:00.009-04:00

I woke up this morning to a steady drizzle and heavy overcast, feeling like somehow the weather was trying to get inside of me. I read my devotion - the most well-written to date - and the weather didn't stand a chance! I have a bunch of yard work that I wanted to do but I don't know if I will be able to get to it today with the weather so wet.

Hurricane/Tropical Storm Hanna is swinging wider than they first thought, and we are just getting the outer edges of the rain and 15-30 mile-an-hour wind. I am so grateful it is only a near miss and not a direct hit. Thank God it's Friday and thank God that Hanna is not going to be too powerful of a storm for us.

It is really how you see things, not what you see that determines your emotional response to something. Take, for example, the surfers and the divers. I was not able to go diving today because of the storm. Bummer. The surfer, on the other hand, was ecstatic because the storm is producing head-high waves to ride. It is the same storm but it is what the person sees in it that determines their response. The apostle Paul told us to count it all joy when difficult trials come. Why? Because the trying of your faith worketh patience. You see, it is your view, or at least what you focus on, that determines your response. After a hurricane, the diving/hunting for fish and lobster is traditionally better; any red tide has been dissipated and cold water, which is harmful to the fish, has been pushed out by the storm. So if I change my focus, I can respond with joy to the same thing that, at one point, bummed me out.

What's your focus?

What a weekend

2008-09-03T10:06:00.007-04:00

We went diving on Friday in Jupiter and I shot a twenty-pound Yellow Jack, which is excellent eating. Jonathan, Rick Dean and I drove down together. The Yellow Jack was following a shark to clean up his scraps and I shot him off his back. Thankfully, the shark took off and we sent the fish to the surface. Jon shot a Mutton Snapper and a smaller Yellow Jack. Saturday, I worked around the house doing final clean-up from Fay. I hope they pick up the debris soon, considering there is another storm set to buzz us early Friday morning. On Sunday, Chris Hill was in the house and we were packed in all four services. Chris did a great job and I have heard lots of testimonies about the ministry time, including the evening service at Mezzanine. Monday was the final picnic of the year at Cocoa Beach Country Club pavilion. We had great food and fellowship, many were baptized and fun was had by all. Whew! What a weekend!

On your mark, get set, DEVO!

2008-08-31T07:49:00.005-04:00

The time to start our fall devotional is here! Ignite your life, people, with a season of seeking the Lord with a bunch of other people! I love doing the devotion with you, so get on board with me and do the devo! It encourages me and helps me to press in knowing that you are, too. Anything we do together is easier than trying to do something on your own, alone.

It starts tomorrow morning - Labor Day - September 1st. We have opened up a special website, www.eastcoastdevo.com, where you can read the devotion, share testimonies and stay connected.

WHY?

2008-08-27T09:50:00.025-04:00

Why do the people we look up to, or people who seem to be used by God, struggle so? In my life as a Christian, I have seen a lot of people stumble - pastors, worship leaders, TV ministers, and friends from every walk of life. In fact, while on sabbatical in June of this year, one of the things that I focused on was fragility (is that a word? I think it is.) - my own fragility. I looked back over the landscape of my Christian life and found that so many people I have worked with and looked up to, as well as people who lead in the body of Christ in general, have fallen. It is always the same things that trip them up - sexual sin, money, pride....or, as a old saint used to say, girls, gold or glitz. Why? Because they are human. It isn't just the leaders; it is what trips up all of mankind. The whole body of Christ is challenged with the same stuff and we need to be on guard against it.

2 Peter 3:17 (NKJV) - You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;

The most recent bombshell came from Mike Guglielmucci, a renowned youth pastor and worship leader with Planetshakers, and a contributor to the latest Hillsong project through his song "Healer." Mike came forward to admit he had fabricated the cancer story that prompted the song. For the last two years, Mike had convinced everyone that he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. His song went around the world as an anthem of God's child believing the Word and seeking God's solution. He performed with the Hillsong team and everyone supported and loved and believed in him, and in God. Now his family, who also was fooled in the process, has been devastated. His father had to break this news to the church that he pastors and is stepping aside for a season. Mike's own wife was fooled in his deception. Mike's credentials have been pulled and he is seeking professional help.

Evangelist Todd Bentley has also recently been stripped of his credentials for failure in his marriage. Todd is the evangelist at the center of the recent meetings taking place in Lakeland, Florida, that recently received a lot of press, both positive and negative; mostly negative. Thousands of people lined up at those meetings. People came from all over the world to participate. Millions of people have sung Mike's song and believed for God to heal their bodies. What's going on? How were people being touched in Lakeland? How could a song born out of a lie have such impact in the body of Christ? People have claimed to sense God's presence while singing that song, and have been healed while at the meetings in Lakeland.

I believe many sincere people were fooled; mistakes were made and ungodly things were done; the body of Christ was naive. However, that still doesn't explain everything. I believe God loves people, especially His people. When God's people approach Him by faith and worship Him in Spirit and in truth, God moves and good things happen. Good things happen even if the ministers involved are broken, even if they are living a lie. Paul said in Philippians 1:15-18 (NKJV) - Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill: 16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.

I am not saying we should cover up what was not Christ-centered; or that it doesn't matter what people do; or if the message is right or at least partially right while the messenger is wrong, that it is okay. Character and truth matter, and the body of Christ is reeling from all the failure in leadership. I pray in my own fragility that I do not fall or fail. But it does explain why God's people can be healed and saved and delivered on their own faith in Him, even when those who are presenting the gospel are broken. The Word is true no matter who brings it, and God is faithful. No matter what leadership does, He is faithful to touch His people. Mike's song is still true; Christ is my healer. As far as Todd is concerned, I never went to the meetings or followed what he said, but if there was truth in what he did, people were touched - not based on Todd's brokenness, but based on their faith in God.

I know His people who lead need our prayers. I know we are responsible to test those who say they are apostles. I know we are responsible to know the Word. I know that God has called me to partner with Him and build a life-giving church that lasts and He is still on the throne. This season we are in will pass, and God will continue to build His church!

The Water is Receding

2008-08-22T15:20:00.005-04:00

This is Matt's house (our son) in Merritt Island. Notice the sand bags on the front porch. That's what we did Thursday morning while it was still raining hard. His neighborhood streets were flooded and the water was about four feet further up than the picture and still rising. So with only four feet till it was in the house we decided to sand bag the doors as a precaution. It was just Matt and I when we started and then a bunch of people started showing up. Jeff, friends Scott and Nate, Jessica's step- brother, and others. It was great to get the help. When I got home, I saw Matt and me in my truck driving down his flooded street as one of videos they were showing of flooding in the area on local Channel 13 news! Kids were boating and we saw a catfish in the mulch bed.

Wet n Wild

2008-08-20T14:03:00.007-04:00

Well, we made it! The storm has come and is slowly going. We lost power last night at about 9 p.m., and by 10 p.m. I had the generator running and the Olympics back on. The area is wet and we have lost power to a few thousand homes, but things look good as a whole. We are having church tonight and thank God for His blessings!

Fay-ith

2008-08-19T10:00:00.006-04:00

Well, here we are in Central Florida preparing for Tropical Storm Fay. Everybody responds differently to things like this. Someone asked me if I was going to the radio station to do Morning Breath this morning. My response was, "I am sure I can get home before the storm takes me over, since it is not scheduled to be over us until 10 p.m. tonight. It is a morning show, by the way."

Every day, no matter what the circumstances, is the right day to believe God. The believers in Georgia are believing for the storm to come and break their drought. Believers in Florida are praying for it to miss them. Dueling prayers. It is hard to know what to do or what to believe sometimes, but I am sure we can believe God for safety, for protection and for His goodness. Don't be afraid. All the kids who prayed that the second day of school would be cancelled got their prayers answered! It is a good time to be thankful. I am thankful that Georgia is going to get some rain. I am thankful it is just a tropical storm and not a Cat. 3 hurricane. I am thankful I live in a safe home with a wonderful family. I am thankful that this storm will pass and the sun will come out tomorrow - or at least by Thursday.

Prepare, be safe, believe God and stay dry.

Ignite

2008-08-17T07:43:00.010-04:00

The devotions are coming! The devotions are coming! We have a new devotion we will start handing out today for our fall time of fresh fire. Summer is in the books and we are hitting the books! The new devotion, that is. We had such great response to the one we published at the first of the year that we decided to do one for the fall. We are not calling a fast, but we are inviting everyone to get into the Word. We've provided a wonderful new devotion that will focus on reigniting your passion for God. It will be done on our Morning Breath radio program as well as churchwide. We will hand them out for the next three weeks and then start the devotion Monday, September 1st. The devotion will last 35 days and will end Sunday October 5th. Make sure you get your copy and let's join together and reignite! As we all read the same thing and begin to speak the same thing and press into His presence together, believe with me for breakthroughs in our lives and the lives of those we love.

Georgia on My Mind

2008-08-12T20:49:00.007-04:00

Hello from Atlanta! We are at Bishop Dale Bronner's church in Atlanta showing our laser production "Redeeming Light." David, Ray and I are here - on an executive road trip! The production went very well and Bishop Bronner loved it; he would like to have us present it to his entire church. He said he would invite Andy Stanley, son of Charles Stanley and pastor of North Point Community Church in the Atlanta area, along with a large group of other pastors with whom he has a close relationship, to come see the presentation. Joanne Young is doing a great job with this production and interfaces with everyone so well. We are attending a staff meeting tomorrow at the church to observe and learn, and then we will be back tomorrow night. Thanks be to God!

After the nap

2008-08-10T17:38:00.007-04:00

Good afternoon, everyone! We had great services at East Coast today, and we talked about mix tapes in the Bible. Get in touch and get a CD and you'll see what I mean.

It is going to be a very busy time for the next few weeks. On Tuesday, some of the guys and I are heading to Bishop Bronner's church in Atlanta to preview our laser production, Redeeming Light. Bishop Bronner is of Madea fame; he's played a preacher in a couple of Tyler Perry's films. We believe this production is destined to win souls all over the world. Shortly after we get back, I will be taking it to Colorado and showing it to about 600 pastors at Andrew Wommack's pastor's conference in Colorado Springs. The doors are starting to come open. Then, it's up to Destin to the second best church on the planet - Shoreline Church with Pastor Eric Partin and the Shoreline crew. I will be sharing with the church and their leadership team. Each trip will be unique and different people will be coming with me for each trip. Pray for strength and favor and that we would honor God in everything.

Random thoughts

2008-08-06T16:38:00.009-04:00

It is amazing how when you are fighting a sickness in your body it changes your whole attitude. I have been coughing my guts out for the last four days, especially at night, and I have not felt like doing anything. I still am doing some things because life goes on, and I want to fight the good fight of faith with my actions as well as my words. So I keep going, with naps sprinkled in to make up for the lost sleep.

I got a note from Mike and Pat Black in Guatemala today saying we were the only church that has sent teams there this year. They thought it might be because of the financial situation in the USA right now. They had nothing but good things to say about the teams and what they accomplished in during their time there. One of our teams returned to the states today, and I am excited to hear a good report!

Tim Redmond is speaking tonight at our Wednesday night service and then we are going fishing tomorrow. He has brought his 12-year-old son with him and we thought it would be fun to go out and catch some fish.

My daughter starting working at the church in the office, and it is really good to see her on a regular basis. She is going to work on projects and events, as well as provide general administrative support. I'm so blessed to have my family as part of my ministry team.

Well, back to the couch for a bit. See you at 7.

Loving Life!

2008-08-03T07:22:00.008-04:00

Good morning! I slept like a rock last night. What a busy Saturday I had! I shot in a practical pistol competition in Titusville yesterday morning and it was rough. I did poorly, and I had a gun break; the hammer flew off and hit me in the face. I was unable to finish the stage and it was a qualifier. But the day got better - I picked up Daniel's friend Josh on the way home and then we went wakeboarding for an hour when we got home. Then everyone came over and we celebrated Jessica Howard's (our daughter) birthday. It was awesome, Holy confusion! Little kids were running all over; I got to see Aubrey walk for the first time; Matt caught a 5 lb. trout off the dock; Jon was working on his speargun; and Carolyn was cleaning and cooking a wonderful meal. I just wish I wouldn't have felt so tired from such a full day already.

Jessica is a great daughter. She is an awesome mother, wife and sister. She loves the Lord with all her heart and she is real. I am so proud of her!

Judgment

2008-07-29T11:55:00.005-04:00

On Morning Breath today, the subject of Oprah's influence on people's religious beliefs came up. As Matt was trying to remember her latest promotion - we had already mentioned The Secret -I said her latest adventure is called - then I blew a raspberry. I said that I thought she was leading many people astray. I received this email in response:

Good Morning Pastor Dan,

Although I do not align myself with any particular religion, I like to listen to your morning program. I have a deep belief in The Lord GOD, and I live my life according to his teachings. My aunt, who is very Catholic, asked me one time how I had such faith without going to church every week. The reason I don't attend a specific church regularly is that so many times it has been my experience that they are full of judgment and politics. This morning I was very disappointed in your show. Would Jesus ever have judged another? Would Jesus ever have given a raspberry to anyone? I don't care one way or another about Oprah. I would feel the same way if you had disrespected anyone. If we are to present ourselves as followers of Jesus, then are we not to ask ourselves WWJD? I ask you today would Jesus have judged and defamed another for any reason? You put yourself in a position of teaching the ways of Jesus. Was your behavior Jesus-like this morning? It felt like a very poor example of christian behavior to me :(

Here is my response (hold on to something!):

Dear Listener,

Oprah is misleading millions of people, and I believe what I said is that what she has to share about religion is a “raspberry”. But I do not draw back from drawing attention to her deceptive practices and expressing my distaste for her religious garbage.

Mt 3:7 NKJV But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (John the Baptist speaking here)
Mt 12:34 NKJV Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. (Jesus speaking here)
Mt 23:33 NKJV Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell? (Jesus speaking again)

This is what Jesus would do and did do, and He also would have gone to church. My question is, are you judging me, and is it based on the truth or is it based on wishy-washy feelings? Actually, by not going to a local church you might be in danger of judgment, the sound judgment of helping others and being helped in a community of faith. Proverbs 18:1 NKJV - "A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment." Not all judgment is bad –the word simply means to decide – KRINO in the Greek. The Bible says Sarah judged God faithful. Heb 11:11 NKJV - "By faith, Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised." We all must decide about people and things every day. I have made a decision about Oprah based on the fruit she is displaying, but it is not with out mercy. I pray for her to return to Christ and the truth she once held.

Listener, God loves you and even if you struggle with this, so do I. I love Oprah, too, and because of that love I am committed to sharing the truth with you. Email is difficult because we can’t see the heart attitude or hear the inflection in our voices, but since it is the way we communicate, so be it.

Dan

Weekends

2008-07-27T07:28:00.006-04:00

I went diving with my sons on Friday and I am so blessed to have a good relationship with all of them. We did three drops and we lost Matt on the first one. Well, not permanently; he had to surface because he didn't have enough weight on to make it to the bottom. We went to some stuff we had never seen before - Black Rock, Broken Reef and the 80' ledge. Not a lot of "shootable" fish (we spearfish together) but lots of life and it was fun. I had BC troubles; it was leaking air around one of my dump valves, so the first two dives were harder to get stabilized. We finally found some fish on the third dive and ended up shooting 7. I made ceviche when we got home.

A dear friend turned fifty and we went to his birthday celebration on Saturday and it was fun. Lots of people and the food was good (I did the grilling - ha, ha!). It was at Kars park on Merritt Island on Space Center property. Lots of games and fellowship. Took a long nap that afternoon and then worked around the house. It is tiring to dive; Daniel slept from 4 p.m. until 10 a.m. the next morning!

Time to get busy again - it's Sunday morning I need to study for the message this morning. May God be glorified in all we say and do today!

On a Mission

2008-07-22T09:50:00.014-04:00

"Mission's Flame" by Matt Redman

Let worship be the fuel for mission's flame
We're going with a passion for Your name
We're going for we care about Your praise
Send us out

Let worship be the heart of mission's aim
To see the nations recognize Your fame
'Til every tribe and tongue voices Your praise
Send us out

You should be the praise of every tongue, Jesus
You should be the joy of every heart
But until the fullness of Your Kingdom comes
Until the final revelation dawns
Send us out

Guatamala
We have just had a group return from Guatemala after bringing over 500 pairs of shoes to needy children at a school we help sponsor in that country. It is always a life changing event to go somewhere to help people as an ambassador for God. Our missionaries in Guatemala wrote back to me and said:

July 5, 2008

Dear Pastor Dan and East Coast Christian Center,

Just a quick note of thanks from us to you for the confidence you have deposited in us as a ministry serving in Guatemala. I know all of you have worked very hard to make this mision trip a reality and we believe its going to be life changing for the team thats coming down in a few days.

Malcom has done a great job coordinating everything with us and we are ready to go. May God bless all of you for the love that you are sowing and depositing in Guatemala.

Pastor Mike Black
Guatamala

India
Things are also going great in India. We have had, to date many students graduate and 24 students who graduated from our ECCC Bible School, after completing their two-year commitment, have started churches and are pioneering a work in various areas in that nation.

Cameroon

Our team in Cameroon, Africa is moving forward with plans for an orphanage and a Bible school there as well. Our God is a God of the whole earth and He has a world vision. We, His people, need to lift up our eyes and get involved in preaching the gospel to the whole world. We either need to go or send people who will go.

Ask yourself, "What do you want me to do Lord?"

I'm Blessed

2008-07-16T09:18:00.015-04:00

First of all, I would like to apologize for my absence. I am getting used to being back at church full time and am being reminded of how busy I can get. I wasn't able to log on for a few days, but just got word on how to connect and blog again, so I'm back!

We have just experienced some great things as a church that have really blessed me and, I believe, have made a difference in a lot of lives. One of these things is an event we began planning for last year and have spent a great deal of time getting ready for over the last 12 months. We learned a lot from Kidz Blitz on how to do this type of event, and we have spent the past year purchasing supplies and a set.

Every summer, we've either done a Vacation Bible School or hosted a group from the outside to do a kids event to follow up our backpack event to reach out to children. God spoke to me, when I first went back into ministry, and told me to focus on three groups - missions/winning souls, the poor/helping the hurting, and young people. All three of these areas will not, at first, help a church financially; these groups cost money to minister to effectively. God told me that if I would focus on these groups, He would supply the money needed to "do" church - and He has!

We have had a phenomenal summer reaching out to children and youth. This week we presented a two-night, Nickelodeon-style, Word-centered event called Kidsplosion. We had 750 people here the first night and 550 the second night. We gave away 671 backpacks to K-6th grade and 285 children came forward to receive Christ! The set was creative and exciting, the games were rowdy and fun, and the scriptures were clearly presented. All-in-all it was a phenominal event that ministered to our church family, reached out to our community, and made a difference in a lot of people's lives. Our staff of volunteers, kids church workers, staff members, and our maintenance and construction team did a fabulous job!

Take a Shot

2008-07-09T16:18:00.008-04:00

Just some personal info: A friend and I went to a qualifying round of practical pistol shooting (IPSC and USPSA) the other day and it was so cool. There is something about having a Springfield Armory XD .45acp in your hand and competing with a bunch of other guys and gals to see who can shoot the targets with the most accuracy and at the fastest speed. We had to start by shooting four targets, and then reload and shoot four more. Then we moved to one-handed shooting of four targets, followed by weak-handed shooting of four targets. If you are right-handed you must shoot left-handed. That first stage really threw me - I was really nervous and ended up missing one of the targets completely, which is not good for your score. The friend I was with did really well in all the stages and got 24th overall for the entire day, which was awesome. I had a hard time on the fourth stage, though, and failed to engage a target. It was the largest stage and one where you had to move and shoot around obstacles and through windows and doors. It cost me 10 points for the two misses and 10 points for the failure to engage, and I lost up to 10 points if the misses would have been hits. That potential 40-point swing was devastating to my overall score but, because that stage was not a qualifier, it did not hurt me in qualifying. I think I was able to start out as a "C" shooter, which was my goal going into the competition.

Church Government

2008-07-07T21:59:00.009-04:00

I was recently asked how our church was set up from a leadership standpoint. Are there elders, deacons, and budgets? Do we have a church counsel? The inquirer will remain anonymous, but I'll answer them here for the benefit of any others who have the same questions:

Dear Anonymous,

I am not 100% sure what you mean by a church counsel. I am not from a church background and it is not a term we use. We have a corporate board, of which the pastor is president; that person is me as long as I am pastor. Ray Goolsby is the vice president and Dave Ellis is the secretary. As far as church government goes, we three are the executive pastors. We have elders made up of all the pastors on staff plus Malcolm Blowes. We have just had two non-pastoral elders resign; one served for 17 years and resigned for business reasons, and another served five years but is now moving. We also have a informal advisory board made up of wise men who help us with business decisions. If there was a failure in my life, any moral, financial or pride issues, we would call in three pastors from the outside to advise the elders and corporate board on proper restoration or termination procedures.

There are others whom I lean on, as well. Mike Black is a missioary to Guatemala and the man who won me to the Lord; we talk and share often. Steve Shank is the pastor of the church and ministry I am ordained with; I have known him for 28 years and file regular reports with him and City on the Hill ministries. Andrew Wommack is a great friend and advisor and is always available to help. Eric Partin, who was our youth pastor for 14 years and is now senior pastor of Shoreline Church in Destin, is also involved in my life greatly. We also have deacons but, Biblically, I think they are those who serve, which is certainly a form of leadership. On pay scale, we try to look at national averages and local economy and set it accordingly. There are a lot of resources nowadays to help with those decisions.

We believe God sets a leader and gives them vision and that everything else in the church is in place to fulfill God’s vision for a place. I have committed my life to God in Merritt Island and this is where I will fulfill my call. I hope this helps.

If you have any more questions about this, let me know. Also, if you have any comments or thoughts, let me know.

Run Forrest

2008-07-04T07:59:00.004-04:00

The month I was off, I ran a little. I need to get back into something that is aerobic, something that will strengthen my heart. Mike Green and I ran together at the gym this week for the first time in a long time. That month of preparing and running two miles three times a week made it possible to step in and enjoy running. It is amazing what preparing will do. What is God preparing you for? How is He trying to get you ready? What could you do for 30 days that would make you more ready?

Back in the saddle again

2008-07-01T11:19:00.006-04:00

I am adjusting to being on site at the church and it is an adjustment. I am so grateful for who God is in my life. I am amazed at how fragile I am. Because I lead so much, it becomes a habit to be in charge and, really, God needs to be in charge. In my time apart, it was a struggle seeing how easy it is for me to fail or fall short. I, like so many of you, need direction and scheduling. Really, I guess, it's purpose. We all need purpose in our lives, and without purpose we become vulnerable to the flesh and the enemy's devices. I get to serve a great God in a great church. His purposes in my life are awesome. When David stepped back from his purpose and didn't go to war as King of Israel, he fell with Bathsheba. We must stay busy with the things of God. Living an on-purpose life.

Life-Line to the Nations

2008-06-29T07:31:00.005-04:00

We have been trying to get the Haiti truck into Haiti for the past few weeks. As many of you know, we filled a truck with care packages, beds, food, children's clothes and shoes for the orphanage in Haiti. This is a God idea, but we are being resisted. The government in Haiti is in a state of turmoil - not unusual for Haiti, but it is a heightened state of turmoil at this time. Gas prices and rice prices have really affected the economy and they have cracked down on imports. Our sources tell us that it should be loosening up soon. Either way, our job is to pray. There are a bunch of orphans waiting for that truck and we need to be able to deliver it soon. The Word says God will open a door no man can shut and shut a door no man can open, that we can grow in favor with God and man, that we are blessed coming in and going out, that when we give to the poor God will repay and that true religion is to visit the widows and orphans. So in Jesus' name, in agreement with the Word, we pray that truck will get through without added cost or time and arrive safely at the Haiti orphanage with its full cargo. Amen!

Sabbatical Adventures

2008-06-25T08:13:00.003-04:00

Rick Dean and I went diving on Monday and Daniel, my 14-year-old, went with us. We had a great time and Daniel did real well diving. We both had slight problems underwater and were able to calmly solve them both. Speaking of my 14-year-old son....not anymore - he turned 15 today! I took my boat in for some work and when I got it back from the mechanic it needed to be put back in the water. I went by myself to the boat ramp and was putting the boat in, and as I looked in the rear view mirror the rope I had tied it off with broke and the boat started drifting out away from the dock. No one else was there to help so I had to jump out of the truck, drop my wallet, phone and glasses, and dive in and swim after the boat. After that I was glad no one was there! So I arrived at the house wet and muddy, but at least I had the boat. Spent some time in the word this morning - Psalms 119 makes you hungry for the word - and I have a bunch of stuff to do around the house today.

Simply Amazing

2008-06-22T08:50:00.002-04:00

It is amazing how different it is getting up with my family to go to church. First of all the time. I am usually on the go before 6 am and get to church and it is 8:30 before I know it. Today I woke up at 7 am and laid around, showered, ironed a shirt and got ready. I made a protein shake and it still isn't 9 o'clock. Another thing is interaction. I usually am lost in my own thoughts and prayer as I get ready to preach on Sunday mornings. Not when you get up with your family. It is taking me some getting used to. I am such a creature of habit it is good to shake things up. When ever you shake things up the water will get a little cloudy but with God's help it will all settle out all right. I get to sit at the table and have breakfast with my wife. It is a rare luxury. Usually it is only on Saturdays that it works out we can eat breakfast together. We can talk about stuff on the way to church and then talk about stuff on the way home. Matt is preaching today and we are so proud of that guy - as we are our whole family. See you at church!

Silent Readers of the Blog

2008-06-19T11:57:00.003-04:00

We have started keeping track of how many people are reading the blog and we are really pleased that you are reading. What would you like to see me writing about? Any questions I could answer? Any input on anything? All you silent readers please respond; we can't learn anything from you unless you contribute.

Scuba Adventures

2008-06-19T08:28:00.005-04:00

It was a rough day diving yesterday. While I was setting up my equipment for my second dive my regulator blew up and was rendered useless. After the dive boat set me up with a borrowed one I was back in business. Abernathy's in West Palm Beach is a great dive boat. We went in and had a great dive on Mid reef but when we came up there was a raging thunderstorm and the boat that was to pick us up could not see 50 feet. So in rough seas and pouring rain with plenty of lightening thrown in for good measure I had to wait for the boat to find me for about 20 minutes. While waiting I tethered my spear gun to my BC to have my hands free. I started losing a weight pouch and just barely noticed and grabbed it but could not get it to lock back in. I had to dump the weights on the ocean floor to save the weight pouch. While fighting the wind and the waves the spear gun must have jarred loose and fallen to the bottom. When I noticed it was gone I didn't have enough air to look nor could I risk the boat missing me while I went back down to the bottom. So I lost my brand new spear gun. I am believing for it to be found and returned to me. When we came up Rick said he was close to ditching all his gear and was praying for help to come soon. Under the circumstances the Captain did a great job and got everyone back on the boat. It was an exciting day diving to say the least. Maybe I should clean the garage today - what do you think?

I'm Back

2008-06-16T09:43:00.003-04:00

Vacation is over - we've put mile marker fifty in our rear view mirror and have returned to Merritt Island. The Keys vacation was too short - like it is every year. It was an eventful vacation. People caught fish for the first time; shot fish for the first time (spear fishing); slept with scorpions for the first time. Only the verse which says we have power to tread on scorpions got Carolyn back in bed with me. We had as many as 19 people there at one time - it was a holy confusion of fun. Diving was great - Daniel is a great shot with a spear-gun and is doing a great job at diving. We only got offshore one day and caught 10 small dolphin and two tiny black fin tuna. I am a little ahead of Morning Breath and have started studying again each morning until about noon. Yesterday at church we went to the Ave Worship Center and it was great - as a Dad to get to ride to church with my wife and son and sit with my family was awesome. To worship with no pressure was such a blessing. It seemed like the tears just kept springing up. I even won a steak in my free book!

Things we see and hear

2008-06-09T07:38:00.007-04:00

Acts 4:19 NKJV

But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.

Acts 4:20 NKJV

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”

If we were confronted by the authorities and told to not listen to God any more it would be pretty easy to think you would not obey them. But when it comes to just listening to God versus doing what we want, how do we do then? I am most challenged when it comes to obeying God in the little daily things - how I speak to my friends, how I respond to my wife, choices about life that are either self- centered or generous and others-minded. It seems to be easier to make the big choices. I think these guys had their mind on God and what He was doing, not on themselves. They had just been filled with the Spirit, seen Jesus rise and ascend and thousands had just been saved! The more I focus on God the easier it is to make the right little decisions. I am so glad God has made me righteous. That He loves me. That He has provided for our family to take this awesome vacation in the Keys. The more I think about Him the easier it gets to choose correctly. We caught a lot of small snappers and feed 19 people with fish last night and still were able to freeze some. We went diving yesterday and had a great time. See you later.

Gone Fishing

2008-06-07T17:38:00.004-04:00

I'm sitting with my granddaughter Emma in the Keys and I just cleaned our third batch of fish. The wind is blowing too hard to dive but we can fish in the shelter of an island right around the corner. We have caught Mutton Snapper, Yellow Tail Snapper and Mangrove Snapper and we have enough to feed the hoard of people who are here. 19 people are here right now with four more coming! I gotta go! Pastor Dan out!

A Spirit Born Church

2008-06-04T07:18:00.003-04:00

Acts 2 this morning - The Spirit is for all as many as the Lord our God shall call. If you are born again you can receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit. All you have to do is ask. Power to change is available to you - not will power, not resolution - but the power of the Holy Spirit. Fire burns away everything in it's path - on the day of pentecost the Spirit came to fill God's people with power and to help them be witnesses. It seems like the weak and "foot in the mouth" Peter had gone through a miraculous transformation. Instead of misspeaking he leads thousands to the Lord. We need to walk in the Spirit. I was talking to a friend who said they had decided at their home group to step it up and pray in the Spirit more - like 30% more. As I read the chapter this morning I thought I should join them - how about you?

You Shall

2008-06-03T12:52:00.002-04:00

This morning in my morning read of Acts 1 I was reminded that Jesus said "You shall........ receive power and You shall............ be my witnesses." You shall, sounds like a command or at least a statement that He believed in. He believes in us enough to give us the Holy Spirit, the spirit of power and to be His representatives in the earth. "Lord help me to walk in the Spirit and to operate in Your power and send someone my way to share the good news of the gospel." Some how I can't help but think today that power and witness go together. I also watched some dvd's and got fed - now it's off to pre- vacation planning again.

Sabbatical

2008-06-02T08:41:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone, the month of June is going to be a special month for me, I am on a sabbatical. I am really not too sure what that is suppose to look like but I did one two years ago and although I did a lot of work around the house it was refreshing. This month we are taking our family vacation to the Keys while we have some good friends stay at our house and watch Duke the wonder dog. I got up this morning and ran for the first time in months and it was painful but felt good to do it. I read my Morning Breath chapter Hebrews 13 - Remember that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. Now I am going to study for awhile - watch some dvd's and get fed! Then it's on to pre-vacation preparation.

Hatbill

2008-05-31T12:45:00.002-04:00

I went out with some guys for some male bonding today. We went to the gun range north of Titusville and put a few hundred rounds of ammo through some paper - paper targets that is. I am continuing to try and learn how to shoot competitively. There is way more to it than you would think. Draw, speed and accuracy are all very important - with a lot of emphasis on safety. I am trying to do it right first, with accuracy second, then as I get better I hope I can get faster. The first match I shot I actually shot the best score on accuracy but I did it very slowly and my score was low because of it. The second time I trimmed 20 seconds off my time but my accuracy went down a little but I scored about 25% higher than the first time. So look out paper targets I am coming after you.

Monday Monday

2008-05-26T08:53:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day and summer is here. It is still windy but the weather is definitely changing. We have a picnic today at the Cocoa Beach Country Club pavilion. We will eat BBQ, swim, fellowship and do some baptisms. We will be coming by boat and enjoying some time on the water getting there. This is the time of year when everyone is planning vacations and getting ready to make their summer plans. Make sure it is a summer in the Son. Make room for Jesus in your plans. He loves you and loves to see you enjoying His creation. Just not at the expense of your relationship with Him. On your mark get set go - have some fun and enjoy your families.

What about the Lakeland Meetings?

2008-05-22T10:36:00.006-04:00

I am enclosing a correspondence today from someone who emailed me and asked about the revival meetings in Lakeland.

On 5/22/08 7:07 AM, Someone wrote:

Good Morning Pastor Dan,
I am writing you because I wanted to know your opinion on the Lakeland Revival? From what I read on both sides there seems to be allot of controvercy regarding Todd Bentley. I am concerned because there are some people from our church that will be attending the revival and I would hate for people to be mislead. I do take what you have to say to heart since you are my pastor and I do have allot of respect for you and would like to know what your opinion is. Thank you for your time.
xxxxxxx xxxxxxxx

xxxxxxx,

I know very little about Todd Bentley personally but I have only heard good things. I have a few pastor friends that are going and speak highly of what God is doing. Meetings like these have happened from time to time in the body of Christ and I think overall they are very positive for the body at large. I was personally involved with Rodney Howard Browne meetings and went to London for the meetings at Holy Trinity of Bromptom with Sandy Miller, I attended meetings at Toronto with Randy Clark, went to Pensacola with Steve Hill And Pastor Kilpatrick. All That being said as far as building a church – what we are doing at ECCC and the meetings in Lakeland are different and both have purpose. We are building a life giving church that will last through generations, they are riding a wave of blessing that history tells us will wane. Right now I feel I am to continue building the church where I am at, so I have not gotten involved in the Lakeland meetings. God is able to keep His people and a lot of good can come out of people pressing in to God in Revival type meetings. I hope this helps.

Dan

And I hope it helps you out there too. What do you think? Leave a comment.

Iron Man

2008-05-18T07:27:00.003-04:00

Carolyn and I went to dinner at Thai Thai Friday night and enjoyed some sushi - or at least, I did. Carolyn does not like sushi but she loves the Thai food and had "Three Flavors". After dinner, we went to a movie and saw Iron Man. It started a little rough but was entertaining. The lead character went through a transformation of sorts from a "I don't care" kind of guy to a "I have a reason to live and give" kind of guy. Man, that movie had sequel written all over it! If you go, stay until after all the credits. We had a great time talking and enjoying a relaxing evening.

"It is Finished"

2008-05-14T09:15:00.009-04:00

I had such a good time in the word this morning on Morning Breath - 91.5 FM here in Cocoa, Florida. We are in Hebrews which is one of my favorite books in the Bible. Chapter 4 is all about believing God and entering into His rest. So many people have received Christ and come out of their old lifestyle of sin and destruction - just like the people who came out of Egypt. But just like the Israelites who had come out of Egypt, they have not come into the promise land. You see, Jesus saved us from sin and to something. To Himself, to abundant life, to salvation, to deliverance, to healing, to peace, to wholeness , to the promise land. Or the land of His promises. Jesus said on the cross that "It is finished." What is finished? Just like God finished His work of creation after six days and rested not because He was tired but He sat down because He was done. His work of creation was so complete that God has never had to make a new animal or blade of grass or vegetable or anything. He put within every thing the ability to reproduce and the world was made complete. It was a complete work and because it was a complete work He rested when He was done. Now Hebrews says: Heb 4:9 NKJV There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. 10 For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. 11 Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. Where is our rest? It is in Jesus - He has done a finished work - on the cross He said "It is finished" and it was , all the promises of God in Him are yes and we add the amen. Our work is finished; all that is left is for us to believe God - to sit down in Christ and receive that He has done it all for us by faith.

What do you need? Healing? Deliverance? Prosperity? Peace? Hope? A Breakthrough? Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father on high because He did everything that was needed for us. We can add nothing to it. Our work is not necessary, in fact it is a hindrance, when we work we demonstrate we don't believe He's done it. The only work we can do is to work at believing He has done it all. How else could we come boldly to His throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace to help in our time of need? If it was based on what we did, it would be hopeless but if it was based on what He did and on our willingness to believe it, now that is a plan.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T07:27:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms out there. My mom was really excited early one morning and shook me as I lay in bed yelling “Danny, Danny come here quick look what’s in the back yard!” “What is it?” As I wiped the sleep from my eyes, I could tell she was really excited by the tone and volume of her voice. But she hurriedly shuffled out of my room headed towards the back door, which was my world, my playground where I imagined doing great things. As I stumbled towards the back door excited to see what was there she was already at the back door her nose pressed against the jalousie window – Flamingos – there is a flock of Flamingos in the back yard! We often went to Flamingo gardens in Davie Florida – it was a free and beautiful place to take visitors in South Florida, and they had flocks of Flamingos we often admired. So I ran to back door straining to see the beautiful birds there and couldn’t – my sister ran out too and we both strained to see them and then my mom said April Fools. Wow what a fun and vivid memory. I hope you have and make some more great mother's memories today!

Things are getting better

2008-05-08T13:58:00.004-04:00

Thanks to everyone who is praying and has asked about me; I am feeling better everyday. Sickness is of the devil. Just think about it - the Word is really clear - how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). The effects are clear too. I am not as strong emotionally when I don't feel well - God wants me strong emotionally. I am inward when I have to fight sickness instead of outward, thinking of others; God wants me outward. Everything is harder when you don't feel well - God's burden is light and His yoke is easy. Anyone out there want their family members sick? Of course not! Then how could we ever blame God for such a crime? If you are dealing with illness in your body remember that Jesus bore stripes on His back to heal you. As Peter says by His stripes you were healed (1 Peter 2:24) and if you were then you are!

Pray for me

2008-05-06T15:37:00.002-04:00

I was out of town over the weekend at security conference and when I arrived home on Sunday I didn't feel well. It rapidly progressed into pneumonia. I am on bed rest and I don't do that well. By His stripes I am healed.

Go on to know the Lord

2008-05-01T10:36:00.004-04:00

Andrew left this morning and I have been spending some time reflecting on the meetings. We are blessed to have such a wonderful Bible teacher available to us. I always feel inspired to go deeper with God when Andrew is here. His knowledge of the Bible is so inspiring - He quoted 30 or 40 verses last night with the references and was almost word perfect. His life demonstrates what can happen when you are focused on God and His word. It is great to spend time with him personally as well. It was great to spend time with David and Larry from Andrew Wommack Ministries, as well. Which brings me to people - there were a lot of new people here and it was neat to get to know them. The couple from England was lovely; Sid and Melinda from North Florida were a blessing; Dano from Jacksonville is a great brother ; also, it was great to see that the many people who have traveled here consistently for years to see Andrew were back again. Testimonies were given of past healings; others are still battling, and our prayers are with you. A few faces were missing that usually come and we hope to see you next year. Also, there were a ton of new people to meet and so many people were so gracious to thank us for bringing Andrew in.

What now - press in, follow through on what you hear God is encouraging you to do to know Him more. We are like people who are window shoppers right now - we have seen some truth and been encouraged to know Him but we are still standing at the window looking in, and looking in does not equal owning something. We must go in and put the money on the counter to own it. So let's act on what He is telling us and press into knowing Him on a daily, minute-by-minute basis. It will cost us something but it will be worth it.

Great Meetings

2008-04-28T18:07:00.003-04:00

Andrew is here and is tearing it up teaching the word. People are here from all over ready to receive. The people who watch him on TV are so excited to be able to partake of a live service. My heartfelt thanks to all the servants who have pulled together from ECCC to make this happen - the Mezzanine did a great job last night. I am so proud of Matthew and the team he has assembled. Every servant is so valuable to the plan of God coming off with excellence and power. We went and played golf today and Andrew and I laid the wood to David and Larry - we won by six holes in match play - great fun and fellowship was had by all. I haven't played much for about six weeks, it was fun. I look forward to this time every year like I do our first of the year push - a soaking time - where we get filled up with the Word and spend some extra time in His presence. Thanks also to Andrew and his team for coming. If you remember wish Andrew a Happy Birthday Wednesday night; he'll be 59.

Andrew joins the Blue Man Group!

2008-04-24T13:23:00.004-04:00

Not! First of all I have no idea what happened to this picture but I am going with it. Andrew Wommack will be here at ECCC this weekend and I am excited about it! People always get healed, helped, set straight. People come to our church from all over who have never been here before and I always get to meet new people. We had Wayne Cochran of CC Rider fame here with us last year and he was a lot of fun. He is a pastor in south Florida now and loves the Lord. I also met a childhood hero who owned a bunch of western wear stores where I grew up and where I would shop for Levi's as a kid. People come from all over to be in the meetings. I also get to hang out with Andrew and some of his staff while he is here, and it it always good to be around other Godly men. It is a great time for me to get fed - I can sit and listen and worship differently when I am not preaching. We will play golf too and it is fun to beat Andrew!

Anticipation

2008-04-20T07:24:00.003-04:00

Each Sunday morning I get up early and head to the church. I look at all the stuff - service schedules, announcements, who's doing what. Then I go over my message and the videos and Powerpoints one more time. I rehearse in my mind what I want to say and think about the people I want to help. When I get done with all that, it is time I get away from what is on my mind and focus on God. My prayer is usually along the lines of help God, sorry for what I did or didn't do. It is hard sometimes to lay aside the weights of bad choices or harsh words of the day or week before, but I must. Lord, speak to me and speak to Your people. Inject hope in their hearts. Cause faith to rise. Bring people who don't know You and need to. May they come in with their hearts prepared to receive You. Anticipation begins to rise - a sort of nervousness that goes with expecting God to move. Doubts try to creep in. Fear is always trying to gain a foothold. But God. This church is filled with His people and I know that God in His faithfulness will feed His sheep and shepherd His people and that gives me a lot of confidence - which leads to anticipation and excitement. I can't wait to see what He does. I've got to go - it is time for church!

Consistency

2008-04-16T14:03:00.011-04:00

2Co 6:6 NKJV

by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love,

A Morning Breath verse this morning really stood out to me. Purity spoke to me of motive and how important it is why you do what you do. God, search my heart and see where I am at and help me to change. There are a lot of people who have good motives without knowledge. Paul the apostle was like that - he had a zeal for God but not according to knowledge. He thought he was doing right for the right reason but he was wrong. Pure motives with true knowledge are powerful. The next thing - long-suffering - or patience - is a key. You need to do the right thing for the right reasons, for a long time and never give up. Be consistent and you will get results. Consistency in anything really helps. For the past few weeks it has been hard to stay consistent at the gym. I hurt my elbow and it kept me from working out for a while and then as it has been getting better, I had to scale back my workout to accommodate its healing. Add to that the daily pressures not to go or things that come up and it ends up being once or twice a week at the gym. Inconsistent workouts lead to inconsistent results. So be pure, learn all you can and stay consistent and your life will make a difference.

Good Morning!

2008-04-14T06:31:00.004-04:00

Just a quick word before I start back on Morning Breath today, it has been a week since we were on the air live and it seems like a year. WMIE did their fundraiser over the last week and we spent some time with family and getting some extra rest. I played in a golf tournament and we did well - but not well enough to win. Daniel, Jon and I went diving in West Palm Beach with my neighbor and friend Rick Dean. I ate breakfast with my beautiful wife. All sorts of morning stuff I don't usually get to do. So long, it's time to get into the word - 2 Cor. 4 so read your chapter.

Changes

2008-04-09T16:18:00.004-04:00

I received a letter today from a young man who is in jail. I receive letters from jail pretty frequently but man, this one was amazing. The gratitude for what he had received from the messages and fellowship at the church is humbling. He had gotten into trouble and about 6 months before his trial and sentencing he began to come to church with a friend. During that 6 months he asked for prayer every week - not to get "off" but to help his daughter and family and for God's provision and guidance. He included a poem in his letter and I thought you might appreciate it:

I have a problem, it's called self control.

I can't stop moving, I just keep on the go.

Will a day come, when I finally can breath?

Sit back and relax, just blow off some steam.

My mind starts to race, and it takes it's toll.

If it could just slow, I'd grab it to hold.

I'd take a deep breath, blown straight from the soul.

I'd think of good thoughts, one's happy I know.

I'm lost in a maze, I can't find myself.

I've been stuck this way, I need someone's help.

As long as I've known, that's just how it's been.

Don't know where to stop, nor where to begin.

I know I can change, Lord please help me now.

Lord show me the light, I just don't know how.

I just want to wake up and start over again.

Please show me the path so my true life can begin.

Les

Heb 13:3 NKJV

Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.

Let's pray for Les and maybe someone else you know in Jail and prison and those who work with them.

Blue?

2008-04-06T20:09:00.003-04:00

Blue as in blue man group - wow Carolyn, Daniel and I went to the blue man group on Friday with a bunch of friends and it was awesome. It was way better than I expected and funny besides. One of our group was picked to go up on stage - great job Bethany - which made it even funnier because we knew her. I would recommend the show to anyone as a special event .

Proud?

2008-04-04T09:03:00.008-04:00

Have you ever went to say "I am proud of ................." whatever and found it difficult to say? I know it is a difficult thing for me to say. There are so many scriptures that speak against pride: "God resists the proud, pride comes before a fall, that pride is a deadly sin" etc. Yet I feel like boasting a little bit - 2Co 1:14 NKJV (as also you have understood us in part), that we are your boast as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus. I was talking to Eric Partin yesterday about doing a short video testimony for one of their upcoming sermon series and was so proud of how God is using him at Shoreline Church in Destin Florida. They had 788 people in their two Easter services, he was talking about how God was showing him how to take bigger steps to continue to grow. It is inspiring to see someone going for it and getting something done for the kingdom of God. Today I could easily brag about what God is doing in my family , at East Coast and in other people and other areas etc. The word says: Pr 27:2 NKJV Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.

So I guess we can be proud of what God's doing as long as we focus on others and make sure He gets the credit in our lives. Today walk up to someone and tell them you are proud of them and why. I am proud of you because..................?

PS I am proud of my children and my grandchildren.