tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-148501692024-03-07T15:15:03.736-05:00Chosen to be FreeMy friends, you were chosen to be free. So don't use your freedom as an excuse to do anything you want. Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love.
(Gal 5:13)Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-4786125889992393992010-09-21T13:36:00.003-05:002010-09-21T13:51:13.369-05:00Satan, Go to Hell<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix"><div><p>**Warning**</p><p> </p><p>The following is a new piece I wrote. Before you read please know that it is graphic and it will offend those with stricter sensibilities. It's probably the most heart felt piece I've written about struggle with the despicable nature of my sin and more importantly the One who is my over-comer.</p><p> </p><p>Also, while this poem is directed at Satan and demonic forces, it could also be addressed to my own sinful flesh as well. And as Michael the archangel said I presume no judgment outside what God has willed for Satan and his demons and ultimately my best response is "The Lord rebuke you." (Jude 9)</p><p> </p><p>So you've been warned before you read.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Here you are again, appearing as an angel of light</p><p>You start out your offer by inciting me to flight</p><p>You want me to run, run and flee from Christ</p><p>But like Jesus in the dessert I won't let you entice</p><p> </p><p>You come up behind me and whisper in my ear</p><p>You tell me of worldly pleasures hoping I will hear</p><p>You tell me how I should return to my old man</p><p>And you're so willing and give me a helpin' hand</p><p> </p><p>You tell me that if I'd just turn back to the world that says it's okay to be gay</p><p>That I'll be so much happier than I am following the Way.</p><p>And you say that if i simply go back you'll make sure I have all I ever wanted</p><p>No matter how much I refuse your attacks continue undaunted</p><p> </p><p>To Christ you said turn the rock into bread</p><p>And to me you say go on you know can give great head</p><p>You offer Jesus to give up the cross for a life of ease</p><p>And for me you tempt go on and just stay on my knees.</p><p>And when I say that I don't mean to be in prayer</p><p>For back then for me to know any truth was really quite rare</p><p> </p><p>Eventually, when your attacks of pleasure don't work</p><p>You'll change your tactics from trying to get me to jerk</p><p>You'll start your attacks on my character next</p><p>Doing what you can to get me anxious and perplexed</p><p> </p><p>It's no longer a whisper but a shout in my face</p><p>"You've fallen too much and there's not enough grace."</p><p>Or "You've not really changed you're just a fat faggot,</p><p>Your God will send you to Hell you pathetic little maggot."</p><p> </p><p>Well Lucifer its true you've tricked me before</p><p>And you're right when you say I've been a great whore</p><p>You've even tempted me to end my life</p><p>And I've often held my wrist to that knife</p><p> </p><p>But here is something you so often forget</p><p>You can say all you want but my eternity is set</p><p>You can speak all your lies and even half-truths</p><p>But I'll thank the I Am like at the Feast of Booths</p><p> </p><p>You may know who I was but you don't know who I am</p><p>I'm no longer my own for I've been bought by the Lamb</p><p>You may think you have power</p><p>But it's your coming hour</p><p>When You will be chained</p><p>By the king who will reign</p><p>And you'll spend your days in a pit</p><p>With all the He will spit</p><p>Out of His mouth for being lukewarm</p><p>So let make sure to inform</p><p>You think you know me so well</p><p>Well Satan you can just go to Hell</p><p> </p><p>So come on up Apollyon if you really want to fight,</p><p>I will not be afraid of you for I know my God is right.</p><p>I hold fast to the King's armor of salvation</p><p>And cling to the Sword, from the God above creation</p><p>And one I'll stand and cheer as I see your final defeat</p><p>I have need no to fear you for God's plan He'll complete</p><p>You and your demons will have no where to run</p><p>When the day finally comes for the return of the Son</p><p>So Satan you still think you know me so well?</p><p>Think all you want but you can still go to Hell</p></div></div><form method="POST" action="/ajax/ufi/modify.php" name="add_comment" id="commentable_item_2045508184" class="commentable_item autoexpand_mode comment_form_479336995258"><input name="charset_test" value="€,´,€,´,水,Д,Є" type="hidden"><input name="fb_dtsg" value="YFx5Y" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="feedback_params" name="feedback_params" value="{"actor":"110500244","target_fbid":"479336995258","target_profile_id":"110500244","type_id":"14","source":"2","assoc_obj_id":"","source_app_id":"","extra_story_params":[],"check_hash":"5ea1af591bd50602"}" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="post_form_id" name="post_form_id" value="bb1e1f40c72b19abf1c80127e74984d5" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><span class="UIActionLinks UIActionLinks_bottom"></span><br /></form> Video:<br /><br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8JKTAT_8Dc<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwEvSlvjFBouczI35ewKqhKqQ5Ji3WsCkHKlN4JcyxKDBBYC93_inuNHkGVWxHl11ZrDHf8srt3HTw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-39699590038201301452010-02-28T22:48:00.001-05:002010-02-28T22:48:37.303-05:00A Tale of Two MarriagesI had the great opportunity to witness two of my best friends and <br />brother and sister in Christ join together in the union of marriage. <br /><br />I love weddings. I used to consider them boring and sappy, <br />but since repenting and trusting Christ that has changed greatly.<br /><br />Why? <br /><br />Because marriage is such a beautiful picture of grace and Christ and the Church. <br /><br />The Bible actually begins and ends with a wedding. <br /><br />The very first wedding is found in Genesis 2. <br /><br />Gen 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: <br />and they shall be one flesh. <br /><br />This is the only covenant between man that was created before sin.<br />So now this is a perfect union between imperfect people. <br /><br />But not only does Scripture begin with marriage. It also ends with a marriage. <br />In Revelation 19 we see the ultimate marriage feast. For there we see the feast of the Lamb. <br /><br />Let us rejoice and be exceeding glad, and let us give the glory unto him: <br />for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. <br />And it was given unto her that she should array herself in fine linen, bright [and] pure: <br />for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. And he saith unto me, Write, <br />Blessed are they that are bidden to the marriage supper of the Lamb. <br />And he saith unto me, These are true words of God.<br />And I fell down before his feet to worship him. And he saith unto me,<br />See thou do it not: I am a fellow-servant with thee and with thy brethren<br />that hold the testimony of Jesus: worship God; for the testimony of Jesus <br />is the spirit of prophecy. And I saw the heaven opened; and behold, <br />a white horse, and he that sat thereon called Faithful and True; <br />and in righteous he doth judge and make war. And his eyes [are] a flame of fire, <br />and upon his head [are] many diadems; and he hath a name written which no one <br />knoweth but he himself. And he [is] arrayed in a garment sprinkled with blood: <br />and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven <br />followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white [and] pure. <br />And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: <br />and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness <br />of the wrath of God, the Almighty. And he hath on his garment and on his thigh a name written,<br />KINGS OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.<br />Rev. 19:7-16 <br /><br /><br />Here we see the great wedding as Christ finally comes and takes His Bride, the Church. <br /><br />This is the culminating celebration of the gospel. <br /><br />Christ comes clothed not in a tuxedo, but a white robe dipped in blood. <br /><br />Whose blood? <br /><br />First, it is His own blood that He shed upon the cross. It is His blood that bought His Bride out of the wrath of the Father. This blood is our propitiation of His bride who sold herself into whoredom go after other gods. This is the blood that covers the Bride in crimson to make her pure before the Groom. <br /><br />Second, intermingled with His own blood there we will also find the blood of the martyrs of the Bride. Those who stood before wicked men and were told choose your Lord or your life and they, through the power of the Holy Spirit, declared the choose Christ and in Him Life everlasting. And as they were cut down and their blood flowed freely they built up the great foundation of the Church. <br /><br />So there stands the Bride Groom in His robe dipped in blood waiting on His Bride (actually we as the Bride wait on Him but you get the idea).<br /><br />And the we see the Bride entering. Her beauty is extraordinary! She is strong an full of grace. She has weathered many attacks from other would be suitors. She even at times had left her Lover for others, but His kindness drew Her back.<br /><br />There she enters clothed in purity. She is dressed in "righteous acts of the saints." All those deeds done on earth simply out of a loving obendiece to her Lover. Those deeds that were hidden in are shown not in pride as bright reflection of her love.<br /><br />But her clothes are not in truth her own. They belong to her Groom. They are clothed in His righteousness.<br /><br />This is the great hope for Christians. For the Bride who has seen her sin and repented and turned to Jesus Christ, her Lover and has trusted in Him alone. Just as any bride would submit to her husband and trust him to provide so also the Church trusts Christ alone for her salvation.<br /><br />Oh Christian, as we wait upon our Lover to return let submit now and do all that we can to serve Him and build up the Bride.<br /><br />Come, Lord Jesus, ComeJason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-34975241289780075652010-02-22T05:29:00.001-05:002010-02-22T05:30:06.238-05:00The Failure of the Pro-Life MovementThis is probably going to be one of those notes that get me in trouble. At least that might mean it got you thinking. Either way please comment. I'm keeping it short so you can read it all quickly and we can discuss in the comments.<br /><br />I'm at the point in life where a lot of my friends are getting married (sadly, so far that does not include me). With marriage of course comes children or at least the discussion of children.<br /><br />I realized my life is really changing last week when a couple other men and I went out with one's baby girl. Seriously had "Three Men and a Baby" flashbacks.<br /><br />I go to a very family oriented church. There are several families with 4-8 kids and personally I love it. The "full quiver" is truly awesome for those God blesses in that manner.<br /><br />Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.<br />(Psa 127:4-5)<br /><br />Many in these families look forward to marriage for their children and pray for pregnancy even on the honeymoon. This happens to have happened twice in the last year with a very "Loving" family.<br /><br />Others though that have recently gotten married or are looking to get married hold a complete opposite view. They plan on waiting a year or more before they begin having children. They have a variety of reasons for this decision. Some desire to do so for financial reasons. Others want to do so because they desire time to get to know their spouse in a more intimate manner before becoming parents. I'm sure others come up with a variety of reasons.<br /><br />Now I love my dear friends and won't say there are not reasons to wait to have a child I fear that for many the challenge is really how they view children. Our society has become hostile to children in many ways. Whether it be that they believe the world over populated or simply because of the responsibility of children.<br /><br />Many people who would loudly proclaim abortion as murder still have a mentality that views children as a burden.<br /><br />This is the area where I think the pro-life movement has failed. For the first time in recent history the majority (52%) view abortion as murder, but at the same time many still view children as a nuisance.<br /><br />As much as it burdens me to say this I fear many pro-lifers see children as President Obama who claims that should his daughters have sex he doesn't want them "punished" with a baby.<br /><br />The truth is for some that they view children as an inability to live life on their terms. It means they might be able to go out every night or buy what they want to buy. It means they can't remain adolescent little boys.<br /><br />And that is true. But that is not a punishment. It is indeed a GLORIOUS opportunity. You see when you become a father you have the great privilege of understanding God as a Father. You see the role He has in our lives. You see what a great sacrifice it was for Him to send His only begotten Son.<br /><br />Fatherhood is another reflection of the character and nature of God. Yes, you may indeed give up much, but consider instead what you gain.<br /><br />My goal is not to convince you to pray as some do for pregnancy on a honeymoon. Nor is it to say that godly families will have many kids.<br /><br />Truthfully, I pray God will bless me and my future wife with a couple of our own and graciously allow us to adopt several orphans into our family (as He so graciously adopted me into His).<br /><br />My goal instead is to encourage you to consider how you view children completely. Do you see them as a blessing of God to be longed for and understanding that any gift He gives He will also provide a way to be cared for, or do you see them as something that crushes your freedom, style, and finances?<br /><br />I have many plans and prays for my life, but whether it be in the case of children or anything else let us cry out "Lord, your will be done." Trusting Him in all manners especially His great gift of children.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-80038875954814476192009-09-04T11:41:00.000-05:002009-09-04T11:43:18.972-05:00With the announcement that Ben & Jerry's Ice Creme known as Chubby Hubby will now be known as Hubby Hubby some dear friends are stating their boycott of the company.<br /><br />I complete understand and repsect their decision to do so. I don't share those feelings because I expect no less of a secular company. Though if you're going to truly hold to such convictions then I encourage you to at least be willing to boycott all the companies that are outspoken concerning gay rights and marriage.<br /><br />Here is a list of some of the more known companies:<br /><br />3M Co. St. Paul, MN 1AAA Northern California, Nevada and Utah San Francisco, CA 4Abercrombie & Fitch Co. New Albany, OH 3Alaska Airlines Seattle, WA 1Allstate Corp., The Northbrook, IL 2American Express Co. New York, NY 5Ameriprise Financial Inc. Minneapolis, MN 3AMR Corp. (American Airlines) Fort Worth, TX 7Anheuser-Busch Companies Inc. St. Louis, MO 3Apple Inc. Cupertino, CA 7AT&T Inc. San Antonio, TX 4BBank of America Corp. Charlotte, NC 3Barnes & Noble Inc. New York, NY 1Bausch & Lomb Inc. Rochester, NY 6Best Buy Co. Inc. Richfi eld, MN 5Boeing Co. Chicago, IL 3Borders Group Inc. Ann Arbor, MI 4BP America Inc. Houston, TX 4CCampbell Soup Co. Camden, NJ 1Capital One Financial Corp. McLean, VA 6Carmax Inc. Richmond, VA 1Charles Schwab Corp., The San Francisco, CA 5Chevron Corp. San Ramon, CA 4Chrysler LLC Auburn Hills, MI 4Cisco Systems Inc. San Jose, CA 5Citigroup Inc. New York, NY 5Clear Channel Communications Inc. San Antonio, TX 3Coca-Cola Co., The Atlanta, GA 3Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. Atlanta, GA 1Continental Airlines Inc. Houston, TX 1Coors Brewing Co. Denver, CO 5DDell Inc. Round Rock, TX 5DuPont (E.I. du Pont de Nemours) Wilmington, DE 3EeBay Inc. San Jose, CA 1Estee Lauder Companies New York, NY 4Esurance Inc. San Francisco, CA 2FFannie Mae Washington, DC 3Ford Motor Co. Dearborn, MI 5GGameStop Corp. Grapevine, TX 2Gap Inc. San Francisco, CA 4Genentech Inc. South San Francisco, CA 2General Motors Corp. Detroit, MI 3GlaxoSmithKline plc Philadelphia, PA 4Global Hyatt Corp. Chicago, IL 4Goldman Sachs Group Inc., The New York, NY 5Google Inc. Mountain View, CA 3HHarrah’s Entertainment Inc. Las Vegas, NV 2Hartford Financial Services Co. Hartford, CT 2Hewlett-Packard Co. Palo Alto, CA 6HSBC - North America Mettawa, IL 2IIntel Corp. Santa Clara, CA 7JJ.C. Penney Co. Inc. Plano, TX 2J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. New York, NY 7Johnson & Johnson New Brunswick, NJ 4LLevi Strauss & Co. San Francisco, CA 6Lexmark International Inc. Lexington, KY 4Liz Claiborne Inc. New York, NY 3MMacy’s Inc. Cincinnati, OH 2Marriott International Inc. Bethesda, MD 2MasterCard Inc. Purchase, NY 2Merrill Lynch & Co. New York, NY 4MetLife Inc. New York, NY 6Microsoft Corp. Redmond, WA 4Morgan Stanley New York, NY 3Motorola Inc. Schaumburg, IL 5NNationwide Columbus, OH 5New York Life Insurance Co. New York, NY 1New York Times Co. New York, NY 5Nielsen Co., The Schaumburg, IL 1Nike Inc. Beaverton, OR 7Nordstrom Inc. Seattle, WA 4OOrbitz Worldwide Inc. Chicago, IL 1PPepsi Bottling Group Inc., The Somers, NY 1PepsiCo Inc. Purchase, NY 5Pfizer Inc. New York, NY 5PG&E Corp. San Francisco, CA 6Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP San Francisco, CA 3PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP New York, NY 3Progressive Corp., The Mayfield Village, OH 1Prudential Financial Inc. Newark, NJ 6SS. C. Johnson & Son Inc. Racine, WI 6Sears Holdings Corp. Hoffman Estates, IL 4Shell Oil Co. Houston, TX 1Sprint Nextel Corp. Overland Park, KS 4Starbucks Corp. Seattle, WA 2Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide White Plains, NY 3Subaru of America Inc. Cherry Hill, NJ 2Sun Life Financial Inc. (U.S.) Wellesley Hills, MA 1Sun Microsystems Inc. Santa Clara, CA 4SunTrust Banks Inc. Atlanta, GA 4Symantec Corp. Cupertino, CA 1TTarget Corp. Minneapolis, MN 1Texas Instruments Inc. Dallas, TX 1Time Warner Inc. New York, NY 2Toyota Financial Services Corp. Torrance, CA 1Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc. Torrance, CA 3UU.S. Bancorp Minneapolis, MN 2United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS) Atlanta, GA 2US Airways Group Inc. Tempe, AZ 4VVerizonViacom Inc. New York, NY 4Visa Foster City, CA 3Volkswagen of America Inc. Herndon, VA 3WWachovia Corp. Charlotte, NC 3Walgreen Co. Deerfi eld, IL 4Wal-MartWalt Disney Co. Burbank, CA 3Washington Mutual Inc. Seattle, WA 3Wells Fargo & Co. San Francisco, CA 5Whirlpool Corp. Benton Harbor, MI 5Wyndham Worldwide Corp. Parsippany, NJ 3XXerox Corp. Norwalk, CT 7YYahoo! Inc. Sunnyvale, CA 2<br /><br />So if you really want to boycott then I suggest you get rid of your car, your, mortage, computer, cell phone, washer and dryer, savings and checkings, all credit cards, and prescription drugs.<br /><br />Also you should never fly, stay at a hotel, ship a package, or drink any beverage other than tap water.You see my point is that all this goes way beyond Ben & Jerry's. These companies are run by sinful men and women just like us, but most do not know Christ. They don't need a boycott, but instead they need men and women of God to continually teach and preach the gospel in truth and love. We're called to proclaim truth, not become hermets. If you want to boycott fine, but at least be honest and boycott all companies that push the same agenda. Its easy to say that I'll give up Ben & Jerry's, but not all these other companies we use and depend on.<br /><br />Don't be surprised when non-Christians act like non-Christians.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-76088206337955622752009-07-15T00:06:00.003-05:002009-07-15T00:18:31.360-05:00All Star OutreachI had a blast today. God was extraordinarily gracious in allowing me to go out and proclaim the gospel at the All Star Game today.<br /><br />At first I didn't think I could do it. I have an upper respiratory infection and sound like Darth Vader breathing. I'm winded walking down the steps, but I made it through.<br /><br />It started off as a great blessing because my friend Jeremy went with me and since the last few times I've gone it has been alone that was a great encouragement. We were also able to get really close parking for only $10.<br /><br />We started by going and visiting my pastor's wife and daughter at Hardee's. They won tickets to the game and were wandering around. After a brief stop with them we went and met Bill and some on other preachers from Sports Fan Outreach International http://www.sfoi.org/ Most of them are from Atlanta.<br /><br />All of those guys were a blessing. They were all older and most had been evangelists for years. Some were retired and had become full time since their retirement. they make me think of John Piper's "Don't Waste your Life" message. I pray that should Christ tarry that I should be allowed to preach until I'm dead and be an encouragement to others as they were to me.<br /><br />I'm still praying more older men and women from my own church would join me on the streets.<br /><br />We handed out a total of 350 tracts. I hand 250 or so Obama millions and some "round tuits." People loved the Obama Millions and it was a blessing to watch them read the true gospel.<br /><br />(Side note: I completely understand some people not liking the Obama Millions. Bill and his team had some tracts I wouldn't want to pass out. But the main thing is that the gospel goes out. I urge you to find a tract you like that presents the gospel of Christ and pass those out fervently. The Word of God will not return void.)<br /><br />Sadly, we quickly ran out of tracts. I just put a large order in for more so hopefully we'll be back with those soon.<br /><br />I got separated from Jeremy for a while and wandering trying to start up some conversations without much luck. I did manage to get some free stuff though.<br /><br />I met back up with Jeremy and we went and met some other street preachers. the first one we saw was this sassy black lady (I say that with due respect) who said her name was Evangelist Turner. She cracked me up. She was very bold in sharing the gospel of Christ.<br /><br />Then we saw Chap, Zachary, and Franklin. I'm pretty sure all this men were retired. They were all street preachers Atlanta. Zach actually used the phrase "Turn or Burn" while open air preaching which made me laugh. He was a "unique" brother. I also heard Chap preach a bit as well. Chap's son is a missionary to Peru.<br /><br />My voice has been hurting all day, but I was really inspired by these mean and wanted to get one message out. The DJ had momentarily stopped so I presented the gospel.<br /><br />Then my favorite part of the day happened. Zach and Chap encouraged (they were a little pushy, but they're age allows them to get away with it) Jeremy to preach. Jeremy had never open aired before and his personality isn't one that leads itself to being out front alone, but with they're encouragement and more importantly with the power of the Holy Spirit Jeremy agreed to read in the open air and I would close with the gospel. Jeremy shared from the Sermon on the Mount.<br /><br />I ain't going to lie. I was about in tears watching and hear my brother read. He was obviously nervous and he spoke softly, but God was glorified.<br /><br />I preached one more time after my brother read and my voice was shot.<br /><br />We then went around and got pictures with all the other evangelist and exchanged info. It is a great blessing to know there are others sharing and proclaiming the gospel out there.<br /><br />We had to leave about 6 to make it to my apartment for what was suppose to be Bible study, but several guys were out so we watched Ee-Taow a story about the Mouk tribe coming to Christ and taking the gospel to other tribes. Yep, I cried like a baby thinking about the Word going to people who had never heard it.<br /><br />To close the day I watched video of my last trip to Honduras. Amazing how my heart still longs for that foreign country. Perhaps God will allow me to lead a short term trip there some day soon.<br /><br />I used to think that we were to share the gospel as a blessing to others. While that may be partially true I can't help but realize what a great blessing it is to me. Ever since I started street preaching my heart is more full than ever with the joy of the gospel and while I'm still nervous each time I proclaim the gospel it cannot compare to the comfort of Christ. I long for more to know that feeling.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-OuKT8L5yr284rpjW16gMhGpJ2jsx7JSTuKUR0fxDKgefEWwyDVph-Yl8UwZfA5PrhZncHmpC78Dw-ttWHjLwrgHVO9kLTDhjwFC6cXmOjyzkjfyrJ2WRcDW7W3In5_wYpyi9A/s1600-h/Lovings+and+All-Stars+030.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-OuKT8L5yr284rpjW16gMhGpJ2jsx7JSTuKUR0fxDKgefEWwyDVph-Yl8UwZfA5PrhZncHmpC78Dw-ttWHjLwrgHVO9kLTDhjwFC6cXmOjyzkjfyrJ2WRcDW7W3In5_wYpyi9A/s400/Lovings+and+All-Stars+030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358549460879710402" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Txv-IZ4XujLJ9vkgFGbazb5a5XbAB_PJJmfi4eU1-q_gHOUUK1qPX6G-fvfi3nZuq1R2yyyLYIS42MSgTioGfU28WJsWJHEKxjm9UP46Aewv2K0JNBUGiPWqfh4xGG0Yb-q35Q/s1600-h/Lovings+and+All-Stars+040.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Txv-IZ4XujLJ9vkgFGbazb5a5XbAB_PJJmfi4eU1-q_gHOUUK1qPX6G-fvfi3nZuq1R2yyyLYIS42MSgTioGfU28WJsWJHEKxjm9UP46Aewv2K0JNBUGiPWqfh4xGG0Yb-q35Q/s400/Lovings+and+All-Stars+040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358549457691564706" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel0UdVHXnbiR9EAMl-PNoaBCRbri7QtAgYv5ex3UR38ZeXkUR08gMmaJehb8bjvk13-c0H8vRXEQ1Sp3Ha4oiIy3w9DyeL35kiMXlDPlqT6_pMcz15ueE6HeKmYjeV2Y5MSRi5g/s1600-h/Lovings+and+All-Stars+044.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel0UdVHXnbiR9EAMl-PNoaBCRbri7QtAgYv5ex3UR38ZeXkUR08gMmaJehb8bjvk13-c0H8vRXEQ1Sp3Ha4oiIy3w9DyeL35kiMXlDPlqT6_pMcz15ueE6HeKmYjeV2Y5MSRi5g/s400/Lovings+and+All-Stars+044.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358549456223950274" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1o_b34zdtHxcpg8smFp9b0UhwRe6UAdBpGSxgxMX4nJsFhPafD72Pi-_l0Pzfi0QrSzthN-kqD59DTZRD2zBm-BX8dWlZdKUYgnP82FkfZIAcXI8glMEXC5dil0Kd-YNf3ZDUg/s1600-h/Lovings+and+All-Stars+049.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1o_b34zdtHxcpg8smFp9b0UhwRe6UAdBpGSxgxMX4nJsFhPafD72Pi-_l0Pzfi0QrSzthN-kqD59DTZRD2zBm-BX8dWlZdKUYgnP82FkfZIAcXI8glMEXC5dil0Kd-YNf3ZDUg/s400/Lovings+and+All-Stars+049.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358549451698416402" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-7vBq1QETHJFitpHdM2WAgP6ph2eib8bQjLEk8CXZSmCn0cGs5PpGVCycwOfxLmi6vIL-io35drnC3JuC6G8Dp2XpF5HLjGAe6fFdNIjaGMr3SdG7drW7lD139yDJwG-VWaRYQ/s1600-h/Lovings+and+All-Stars+055.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-7vBq1QETHJFitpHdM2WAgP6ph2eib8bQjLEk8CXZSmCn0cGs5PpGVCycwOfxLmi6vIL-io35drnC3JuC6G8Dp2XpF5HLjGAe6fFdNIjaGMr3SdG7drW7lD139yDJwG-VWaRYQ/s400/Lovings+and+All-Stars+055.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358549439609004834" border="0" /></a>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-47281675060542117562009-02-08T22:48:00.001-05:002009-02-08T22:48:19.870-05:00Amazing Testimony<object width="425" height="239"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=3125373&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=a80d1d&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=3125373&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=a80d1d&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="239"></embed></object><br /><a href="http://vimeo.com/3125373">Marvelous Light</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/illbehonest">I'll Be Honest</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-6266855552025530022009-01-20T14:26:00.001-05:002009-01-20T14:26:58.433-05:00World's largest balloon archGreg Arrigoni of Unique Balloons constructs massive Helium Balloon Arch, 340 feet tall 600 feet wide next to Mississippi river in St Paul, MN 7-3-04<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/j_SGwzlXJcA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/j_SGwzlXJcA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />If you're interested in a balloon arch or other decor at your next event. Please call 314-346-2241. Who knows maybe we can even break Greg's outstanding record one day.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-3182178341714699952009-01-13T11:43:00.001-05:002009-01-13T11:43:44.187-05:00Its not about sincerity<div>Many people today think that as long as they truly believe in something that even if they're wrong God will not hold them accountable for it. Catholics even have the doctrine of "invisible Christians" where they believe people that are good Muslims or Buddhists or anything else are saved.<br /><br />Please hear me today. This is an absolute lie! As Paul headed down the road to Damasscus believing he was doing the very will of God by killing and imprisoning Christians Christ appeared to him and changed his faith.<br /><br />This is why doctrine is important because doctine is faith. Doctrine and faith change how we live just as it changed how Paul lived.<br /><br />So how then do we gain proper doctrine and grow in faith? By studying the Word of God. Rom. 10:17 tells us that "faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God." The foundation of our faith is the Bible.<br /><br />Many people walk around so sure in their faith. They have complete confidence in where they are headed. I fear that many, even those professing Jesus, are headed into God's eternal wrath.<br /><br />"The object of our faith is more important than the sincerity of our belief. The man who thinks he is right but is not sure may be far better off than the one who is “sure” but is absolutely wrong. The credibility of our faith begins with objective truth and ends with internal trust." -Elmer Towns<br /><br />Examine yourself. Is you God one of your own making or is He the God of the Bible?</div>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-70009047327481103602009-01-13T11:42:00.001-05:002009-01-13T11:42:56.998-05:00Hearing the glorious gospel<div class="note_content clearfix"> <div>Back when I was in college I used to be continually frustrated in chapel services. This is for a few reasons, but the one that bugged me constantly was the "invitation" and gospel presentation at the end of their sermons.<br /><br />At the time, I thought it bothered me because we were at a Christian college so why did we need to hear this multiple times a week. I just want some more meat.<br /><br />Now as I look back I realize how wrong I was. The real challenge I was having and didn't realize it was that the gospel most of the people were sharing was a weak and pathetic gospel. It wasn't a call to repent and believe in Jesus. It was a call to "pray this prayer" and "accept Jesus." Like Jesus was the nerdy kid at recess that needed friends desperately (trust me I know the feeling).<br /><br />It was like some voodoo for salvation. The magic formula or words (abrakadabra pull the savior out of the hat). To prove how weak it was, people were to close their eyes and raise their hands because no one was looking around or to bring a friend down front with them if it made the more comfortable. How is this the radical life changing gospel of Jesus Christ? <br /><br />I'm not saying that if you said this prayer you weren't saved. I'm saying you weren't saved by the prayer, but by repenting and turning to Christ.<br /><br />The real way I came to understand this was that I heard the real, powerful, true gospel. I heard the gospel that was not about me and what I was to do but about God and what He had done for His glory to reconcile a people to Himself.<br /><br />It was no longer about a God that was helpless and begging me to come Him, but about Christ who had DEMANDED that I come to Him not of my own power of will because it is completely sinful, but by His sacrifice and Spirit.<br /><br />This is the true gospel. That we daily seek after Christ by His power and He brings us continually closer to Himself.<br /><br />Salvation is not a one time thing. Its not a "I done did that" deal. It is a continual looking to Christ for only He can save.<br /><br />Examine yourself to see if you are truly in the faith.<br /><br />The gospel is gloriously and never can one who know its power tire of hearing it.</div></div>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-769444232864261782009-01-11T01:52:00.001-05:002009-01-11T01:52:40.758-05:00You will be Judged!I was listening to a pastor from my church's Grace Camp Meeting and he made some great points concerning how we will be judged when we stand before God at the end of days.<br /><br />1) We will be judged for what have done.<br />For every deed and every thought we will be held accountable to a holy God.<br /><br />2) We will be judged for what we didn't do.<br />For every time we dishonored God by not doing what He commanded of us we will be held accountable.<br /><br />3) We will be held accountable for everything we would have done if not for the grace of God.<br />We are completely evil, but yet even as bad as we are we would be infinitely worse if God's common grace were not on us. The "good" we do is still only from God's grace. If not for His common grace each of us make men such as Hitler look as though he were a boy scout.<br /><br />So here is the point: Are you ready to be judged for all of this? How will you stand before God when it is over? If you say it is by your good deeds then know you still owe the little good you've done to God.<br /><br />The only way to stand before a holy God in the end is with Christ. Seek after Christ. Know that if you do He will save you and when He saves you He will send the Holy Spirit into you crying Abba Father! And then you will stand before God not as an enemy standing before a judge, but as a son standing before his father.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-42798964861131354962009-01-10T09:46:00.000-05:002009-01-10T09:47:58.348-05:00The Privilege of PreachingIn my last note I posted a letter in order to present the gospel to people I know. While, as I said in the note, I know the gosepel is offensive to those who do not know Christ, but I was surprised at to see the I received more Christians offended for the preaching.<br /><br />I think there are a great deal of people in my generation who have bought in to this social gospel idea. The idea that our main person as Christians is to make this life better. Or that the only effective way to share the gospel is after building relationships.<br /><br />May I make it clear that that is lie from Hell that has perpetuated the Church. While yes there is a great deal of merit to showing love as we are commanded to do (first to the Church and then to the world) and there is merit to relationships they can never take the place of preaching the name of Christ.<br /><br />Throughout Scripture not only are we commanded to proclaim through preaching but we are given example after example.<br /><br />And what are we to preach?<br /><br />As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all), you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. And we are witnesses of all that He did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put Him to death by hanging Him on a tree, but God raised Him on the third day and made Him to appear, not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with Him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."<br />(Act 10:36-43)<br /><br />We are to preach that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation and that He is the Judge of the living and the dead.<br /><br />I hear very few preachers talk about Jesus Christ as Judge. Yes, He is a loving God and that is why we can preach that all who come to Him receive forgiveness of sin and rest for their souls, but whether you come to Him or not know that He will be your judge.<br /><br />So let us follow His example and go about doing good, but may we never forget His command to us is to preach and to testify.<br /><br />If we only were to do good without proclaiming Christ it would be as if we went up to a prison cell. In the cell there is a man that is captive, thristy, and starving. And we stand there desiring to do good so we offer him a crumb of bread. In one hand we hold out this crumb for him to take, but in our other hand we are holding the keys to that cell and yet we never even present them.<br /><br />The world is hungry and thirsty and may we lovingly care for them and feed them, but there hunger and thirst is in no way their primary problem. Their ultimate problem is that they are captives to their sin. They love their sin and hate God. But we know the answer. We know the truth. And we must present it.<br /><br />The world's ultimate need is not bread, but the bread that is the body of Christ broken for the world.<br /><br />Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.<br />(Joh 6:35)<br /><br />And He took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me."<br />(Luk 22:19)<br /><br />The world is thirsty and so let us offer them water is springs up from eternal life.<br /><br />Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."<br />(Joh 4:13-14)<br /><br />This is world's true need. How can we dare offer them any less?Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-85459230690941687772009-01-08T18:25:00.001-05:002009-01-08T18:25:52.447-05:00I must offendRecently some friends became very offended due to a post I had made concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ. One is Jewish and the other and atheist. Due to the note I created (actually it was a repost from a friend I called "a note from a friend to all my friends) I have now lost their friendship, but while I hate that it bothers me much more that they're eyes have yet to be open to Christ.<br /><br />Below is a modified (for spelling errors and to conceal identities and minor changes to clarify my thoughts) reply that I sent to them. It is the say reply I would have to anyone that the gospel has offended.<br /><br />I post this hear because I desire my friends first off to know my God, but secondly to know where I stand. I cannot bear to think that I go another day and not tell each of you about my amazing God and King. I beg you to read. If we were to never speak again this is the only thing I would desire for you to know.<br /><br />_________________________<br />Dear friends,<br /><br />My heart is screaming for relief. I have so many emotions as I read your letter. Know that I truly do hate that I hurt you, but I think you must also know that I am in no way sorry for the truth that I have written and shared.<br /><br />Know that as long as you have known me I have known that Christ is the only way to salvation, and my regret is that I had not let you know sooner.<br /><br />Please know that I do indeed love you and that is why I must not keep quiet concerning the Lord I know and serve.<br /><br />Understand that I by no means believe that you are going to hell because you are an atheist or because you are Jewish. I believe you are going to Hell because you are a sinner and you have sinned against a Holy God. A God that created you and of you demands perfection, but your sin has made you an enemy of God and He will continue to seek to destroy you as such unless your relationship with Him changes.<br /><br />Truly all people who are not in Christ are Enemy's of God because of their sin.<br /><br />All men are alike this and that includes me. Of myself I am nothing but evil. My most righteous of deeds is like dirty rags to a Holy God. The fact that I and all people did not make Hitler look like a boy scout is due to the grace God has so mercifully bestowed. Had God not changed my evil heart and called me to Himself I would suffer His eternal wrath in Hell.<br /><br />Yes, this Hell is indeed the destination of all men for their sin. But God did indeed have a plan from before the world began and that was to send His Son, Jesus Christ.<br /><br />God demands punishment for sin but because He desired to save His people we needed a substitution. We needed one who could take upon Himself God's wrath and that sacrifice had to be perfect. So God became man. He walked among us and was tempted by all things, but yet He did not sin. And then just as God had planned Christ was killed by those He came to save.<br /><br />Yet it was not merely Christ death that paid for us, but it was that all of God's wrath that was let out upon Christ. The pain of the cross was nothing compared to this.<br /><br />Christ is so great and so glorious and so worthy that His momentary stay under His Father's wrath was enough to pay for all those that would come to believe in Him and repent of their sins.<br /><br />But Christ did not stay dead. No, three days in the grave and He rose so that He may reign above all creation.<br /><br />By His death we were cleansed of our sin and by His life we are counted in His righteousness.<br /><br />But we must come to Him. We must cry out repenting of our sins continually and serving Him completely as Lord of our lives and of all things.<br /><br />So no I do not think you are going to Hell because you are Jewish or atheist or Muslim or any other religion, but I do know that without coming to Christ you will go to Hell for sinning against a Holy God.<br /><br />How much more evil would I be had I not spoke this? How cruel would I be to know the truth and not share it? I say these things because I love you more than you could ever know. I love you with the very love of God and beg you to seek christ. I weep that you do not.<br /><br />I know this is offensive. It is so offensive that they killed my savior over it. If only I had offended you sooner for if I have not done so until now then I truly have done a great disservice to you for I must have never fully spoke the truth to you. By love I must offend or I do not know love.<br /><br />I will continue until I die to speak these words and if I must lose your friendship then so be it. I wil not not stop speaking truth, I will not stop loving you, I will not stop respecting you, and by no means will I stop urging you to seek after Christ until He changes your heart and forgives you sin.<br /><br />Call out to Christ for He alone can save you.<br /><br />I desire in no way to lose your friendship, but if you cannot accept my faith then I wish you all the be stand will keep you in my prayers.<br /><br />Love,<br />JasonJason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-17677713830057788302009-01-05T21:23:00.000-05:002009-01-05T21:24:12.583-05:00The Christian's ParadoxI cannot think but what a paradox in which the Christian lives.<br /><br />The more I see my sin the more I see His grace.<br /><br />The lower I find myself in distress of my sin the great joy He gives.<br /><br />The more I see the world's need for Christ the more He reveals His sovereign control and plan.<br /><br />But yet it is never in equal portions. No, what Christ gives many times more worthy and valuable. He continually gives me more grace in sanctification.<br /><br />Oh God continue to cleanse us. Continue to heal us. Continue to sanctify us and bring us to you.<br /><br /><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1231208567_0">Praise Him</span>, Praise, Praise Him for "Holy, Holy, Holy is Lord God Almighty"Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-8772025886009690162009-01-05T00:30:00.000-05:002009-01-05T00:32:06.486-05:00The sorrow of my soulI have found myself weeping multiple times today.<br /><br />This morning as I was preparing for church I received an e-mail from someone I considered a dear friend. In this e-mail I was called harsh words and even compared to Hitler.<br /><br />Why was this person so angry? Because I had written a posted a note on facebook that stated all those that do not know Christ are going to Hell for their sins.I cannot and will not stop sharing this message. For those that come to Christ it is the most beautiful message they will ever hear and for those that do not it is truly a horrifying message.<br /><br />Because of this message I have lost 2 people I loved dearly. They have even removed me from their facebook friends. But that is not why I weep though it does sadden me.<br /><br />I weep for 2 reasons and when I say weep I truly mean weep. Multiple times this day a strong sorrow has welled up in me and lead me to near convulsion in tears.<br /><br />The first reason for this sorrow is that it has caused me to look at myself and wonder why has it taken such a long time for this gospel I believe to offend them. It has led me to realize that had i truly been as bold and as truthful to those I love most of them would have grown to hate me long ago. The gospel of Jesus Christ is offensive. It is sharp. It will separate those that love God from those that hate God. Oh Lord that I had spoken your truth sooner and more directly. May God give me the stregnth and courage to do so.<br /><br />The second reason is that these people I love are still bound to Hell. They have heard the truth and rejected it and by their sin they will be condemned. I am weeping over their souls. Longing that they come to Christ and repent. Not just them, but so many more that I love and are going to suffer under God's wrath unless He changes their hearts.<br /><br />Oh God I thank you for showing me the truth. I thank you that you are mighty and merciful and you have a people you are calling to yourself. I ask that you would call my friends out of their sin and unto your Son. I ask that you would give me the boldness to offend when I must, but the compassion to do so in love. Lord, I ask that in the midst of this pain I feel that you would make the joy of my salvation known. You have broken me this day and I thank you, but may you now rebuild my heart to be more like yours.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-30335129959574531652009-01-03T15:50:00.002-05:002009-01-03T15:53:47.425-05:00John Piper Make WarThis clip is from John Piper's sermon on Romans 8:10-17. You can find the complete sermon at<br /><br /><a href="http://www.desiringgod.org%2FResourceLibrary%2FSermons%2FByDate%2F2002%2F84_How_to_Kill_Sin_Part_2%2F%26gt%3BHow&h=986dbba39a432491452a6ab33f7c72ca">www.desiringgod.org%2FResourceLibrary%2FSermons%2FByDate%2F2002%2F84_How_to_Kill_Sin_Part_2%2F%26gt%3BHow&h=986dbba39a432491452a6ab33f7c72ca</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wrY0h33coR4&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wrY0h33coR4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-30303420210278278252008-10-27T09:53:00.000-05:002008-10-27T09:54:48.078-05:00An Open Letter to All Christians<div class="note_content clearfix"> <div>I wrote this letter in response to something that happened at my church, but after finishing it I thought it would be good to post more publicly.<br /><br />Dear family,<br /><br />I'm trying to guard myself on politics this year as I have a tendency to go overboard, but I feel I must say something.<br /><br />There have been several attacks on Barack Obama's faith made public on this list. I do not think this talk is helpful to any one or to the campaign. Personally, I highly doubt that either he, Joe Biden, or John McCain have any real relationship to Christ, though they all probably think they do.<br /><br />So what are we to do about it? Well may I strongly encourage all of us to study 2 Timothy 2:1-4 and Titus 3:1-2. And hold fast to 2 Chronicles 7:14.<br /><br />First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.<br />(1Ti 2:1-4)<br /><br />Oh how guilty I am in this arena. So quick to judge and yet so slow to pray. Are our hearts in line with God? Are we praying and interceding for those in high positions? Do we desire men to come to Christ even those we disagree with? How much greater is our God to change the hearts of sinful men and how much more effective in bringing about godly leaders. Pray, pray, pray for each candidate. Pray so much more than you fight for it is such a greater blessing and of such great benefit.<br /><br />Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.<br />(Tit 3:1-2)<br /><br />Are we being gentle? Are we being showing perfect courtesy? In our political battles are we yet ready for every good work? I must admit that I am not able to let both "curses and praises flow" from my mouth. I cannot constantly speak rumors and gossip of someone and yet submit to their rule.<br /><br />if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.<br />(2Ch 7:14)<br /><br />We are people called by His name. The greatest name in all existence. A name that has given us great power to be humble. What a mighty promise God gave Israel. And what a greater promise for those that have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them can cling.<br /><br />With just a few days left in this election I close with this. "Seek His face." Stand in the beauty of His presence and seek Him. bow before His throne and pray for all our leaders. Pray not only that they would lead righteously, but that they come to know the one who died on a cross for the sins of His people. Pray that those who have been called by Christ would continue to grow in wisdom and knowledge of Chirst.<br /><br />Campaign on truth and facts, but do more importantly pray. Pray that we would be humble servants, speaking evil of no one, prayer warriors for our leadership, servants of Christ, and ambassadors to a lost and dying world.<br /><br />In Christ,<br /><br />Jason Vaughn, a lowly servant undeserving of the grace bestowed.<br /></div></div> <div id="comments" class="clearfix"><div id="comments_header"><br /></div> </div>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-69171813651905179962008-10-11T00:06:00.002-05:002008-10-11T00:32:42.801-05:00Leaping for Christ!Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God, and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.<br />(Act 3:1-10)<br /><br /><br />I'm always amazed at what the Holy spirit Brings to mind when I read God's Word. In my last post I wrote that I think we are missing out on some of the power of the Holy Spirit. I think that we are so afraid of sensationalism that we have fled from it completely to an equally unscriptural point, but in this passage we see evidence of this power in two ways:<br /><br />1. We see evidence of this power in the healing of the lame man.<br /><br />2. We see evidence of this power as this man turns immediately from a beggar at the gate to a man that is praising God.<br /><br />I find the power of God amazing. Not only did he heal this man, but it says he began to "leaping." God didn't just make this man able to walk. He made him able to leap.<br /><br />When you look to God what are you expecting from Him? Are expecting Him to leave you as you are? Perhaps you're just praying He'll let you crawl.<br /><br />That is not who our God is. Our God doesn't just heal, He causes His people to leap.<br /><br />I'm not just referring to physical healing, though I do believe that our God is still the same today and does heal. I'm talking about healing your lame heart. Your dead decaying evil heart. He can make your heart leap to life and cause you to praise Him.<br /><br />Think about it. This man wasn't looking or expecting to be healed. He just wanted another hand out. He had no faith in himself. His heart was as lame as his legs. But God had something for this man. God did a work first to physically heal him and then to regenerate him that he could praise God.<br /><br />All of this was a work of God. The man had nothing to do with it. Peter and John had little to do with it themselves other than being simple vessels.<br /><br />But when God got a hold of this man He gave him more than he dared to dream. God gave the man Himself (and as a side note He healed the man's legs).<br /><br />So what about you? Are you leaping for Christ? Or are you still a lame beggar at the gate?<br /><br />If you are still waiting at the gate then I urge you seek Christ. Cry out to Christ. And don't stop crying out until He causes you, just as He did the lame man, to leap with praises for who He is.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-42216128452490603582008-10-06T18:23:00.002-05:002008-10-06T18:26:13.494-05:00Power and PassionAct 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."<br /><br />I have read this verse many times throughout my life, but as I was considering it tonight God brought to mind some interesting thoughts.<br /><br />First He led me to consider the placement of Acts. Have you ever realized that God led those that canonized the Bible to place Acts right after the gospel? So immediately after God through His Word teaches us the most spectacular truth in the universe He then goes on not to teach theology as found in Paul's letters, but instead we a history book (full of theological truths, but focused on history). And what is this history book about? Two things: The church and it's beginnings and the spreading of the gospel to the nations.<br /><br />I think his is truly an amazing picture of the heart of God. First we see the vehicle through which he intends to fulfill His plans, the people of God filled with the Holy Spirit, and then we see what that vehicle is to do, share the gospel and disciple the nations.If you've ever considered leaving the church or the purpose of the church then I strongly encourage you to read Acts.<br /><br />A couple other thoughts on Acts 1:8.<br /><br />1. What is this power we are given? I know who it is from and how it is received, by baptism in the Holy Spirit (which I believe occurs at conversion to all believers), and I even know what is if for, to be a witness, but I am still unsure about is what exactly is that power really.<br /><br />2. The other thing I was thinking about when reading Acts 1:8 is that when Christ says "Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" I don't think he is merely giving a pattern for missions as I have always been taught. I was taught that you do missions locally and then you spread out. While this is not necessarily a bad method I do not believe it is the primary function of this text.<br /><br />It seems to me that Christ is truly excited ans as he is speaking he just lets more and more intense. It reads almost like a football coach that is overly excited. Its not a pattern, but a passion. A passion to be a witness. A passion to see the glory of God exalted in all the earth. I believe that through this power that we receive we should have the same intensity and desire for the gospel to be taken to all people as Christ does.<br /><br />Those are just a few thoughts from reading first part of Acts. Please comment and share any additional insight you may have on Acts in general, Acts 1:8, or simply what God is doing in your life.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-71741699167412862182008-09-15T01:53:00.000-05:002008-09-15T01:54:13.575-05:00I know that I can make it!I was just writing a letter to my church family and the Lord brought immeasurable joy to my soul. In my need He is there. He is mighty. He is true. And I am His!<br /><br />I haven't sung this song in a long time, but what a blessing that Lord brought to me. It is Kirk Franklin's "My Life is in Your Hands" Praise His name!<br /><br />You don't have to worry<br />And don't you be afraid<br />Joy comes in the morning<br />Troubles they don't last always<br />For there's a friend named Jesus<br />Who will wipe your tears away<br />And if your heart is broken<br />Just lift your hands and say<br /><br />Oh<br />I know that I can make it<br />I know that I can stand<br />No matter what may come my way<br />My life is in your hands<br /><br />You don't have to worry<br />And don't you be afraid<br />Joy comes in the morning<br />Troubles they don't last always<br />For there's a friend named Jesus<br />Who will wipe your tears away<br />And if your heart is broken<br />Just lift your hands and say<br /><br />Oh<br />I know that I can make it<br />I know that I can stand<br />No matter what may come my way<br />My life is in your hands<br /><br />With Jesus I can take it<br />With Him I know I can stand<br />No matter what may come my way<br />My life is in your hands<br /><br />So when your tests and trials<br />They seem to get you down<br />And all your friends and loved ones<br />Are nowhere to be found<br />Remember there's a friend named Jesus<br />Who will wipe your tears away<br />And if you heart is broken<br />Just lift your hands and say<br /><br />Oh<br />I know that I can make it<br />I know that I can stand<br />No matter what may come my way<br />My life is in your hands<br /><br />With Jesus I can take it<br />With Him I know I can stand<br />No matter what may come my way<br />My life is in your hands<br />3x<br /><br />My life is in your hand 4x<br /><br />And while this song brings peace and strength to my soul I must remember that it ultimately is not about my life but about Him and please also join me in this brief old chorus to magnify our God.<br /><br />What a mighty God we serve<br />what a mighty god we serve<br />Angels bow before Him<br />Heaven and earth adore Him<br />What a mighty God we serve.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-23155650490462784802008-09-08T14:21:00.003-05:002008-09-08T14:32:15.314-05:00Lead feet of sinfulnessRom 13:1-6 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (2) Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, (4) for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. (5) Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God's wrath but also for the sake of conscience. (6) For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing.<br /><br /><br />This verse has continuously come to my mind lately. I hear many of my friends constantly bring this verse up, but usually only on laws they agree with like not drinking until you're 21.<br /><br />But this verse encompasses all laws not just some. I have been experiencing "the sake of conscience" lately concerning some laws. For me it has been concerning speeding. I've heard it said that a Christian's right foot is last thing to be saved.<br /><br />How can we as Christians hope to live by the law of Christ and continually break His authority He has placed over us?<br /><br />It is not just about following the laws, but following Him. Striving for holiness. Striving to find a greater joy and thrill.<br /><br />Let us all examine the Scriptures (I was about to write hearts, but the heart is deceitful) and consider how we truly view the laws. Let us remember that the authority is ultimately from God alone.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-58707177428156512262008-08-25T04:20:00.002-05:002008-08-25T04:28:27.595-05:00His Name - CouncelorI finally recorded the secod part of Spurgeon's sermons on Isaiah 9:6. The tile is His Name - Councelor. It is a fantastic sermon and I pray it blesses and encourges you.<br /><br /><br />Part 2:<br /><a href="http://premium.fileden.com/premium/2007/11/28/1612427/spurgeon.mp3">http://premium.fileden.com/premium/2007/11/28/1612427/spurgeon.mp3</a><br /><br />In case you missed the first one since its been 9 moths since I did it. you can listen to it too. I apologize but the sound quality is much worse on this one.<br /><br />His Name-Wonderful:<br /><a href="http://www.fileden.com/files/2007/11/28/1612427/his%20name%20is%20wonderful.mp3">http://www.fileden.com/files/2007/11/28/1612427/his%20name%20is%20wonderful.mp3</a>Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-68977706583184888802008-08-22T17:04:00.003-05:002008-08-22T18:15:21.608-05:00Genesis 1-20I figured I'd share my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pondering</span> and what I wrote down as I read through. This way if I lose <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">the notebook</span> I'll still have the information. Don't expect it to always makes sense.<br /><br />1:1 What hope there is in these first four words. "In the beginning, God" Our creator has always been there. He created the beauty of the world and ordained its fall.<br /><br />1:2 God calls light out of darkness. Prayer: Lord call my soul out of darkness into light.<br /><br />1:26 "Us" For all eternity <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">God</span> has existed in perfect unity as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit without any need or want.<br /><br />1:28 Man is the first creature <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">that</span> God blesses. The first blessings are children and dominion.<br /><br />1:30 All creation was created as vegetarians.<br /><br />2:3 The next blessing of God in on the Sabbath.<br /><br />2:23 Man's first poem is about his bride.<br /><br />2:24 this <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">marriage</span> decree gives the reason for the law against adultery.<br /><br />3:3 Eve is dumb.<br /><br />3:6 Adam was with Eve when she was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">deceived</span>. He let her lead and when he stopped leading the fall came.<br /><br />3:10 I want to hear the sound of God in the Garden!<br /><br />3:14 The first curse of God was against the serpent.<br /><br />3:15 Promise of redemption is shown.<br /><br />3:16 the harmony in marriage is broken.<br /><br />3:17-19 Because of Adam's sin, God curses the ground and he is told of his death.<br /><br />3:21 First reference <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">to animals</span> dying (use of skins)<br /><br />3:24 Cherubim traditional protect the holiness of God. Here the protect the garden.<br /><br />4:1 sex, conception, ad birth<br /><br />4:2-4 First example of God's demand for sacrifices.<br /><br />4:4 God knew the heart of Abel be that of a worshiper.<br /><br />4:7 First use of term sin.<br /><br />4:7 God tells Cain sin is after him. Shows the aggressive nature of sin. Sin is not passive.<br /><br />4:8 Cain kills Abel.<br /><br />4:11 Again the ground is cursed.<br /><br />4:14 Obviously society is forming with many more people being born than <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">those</span> mentioned.<br /><br />4:13 Cain <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">responds</span> with self-pity not repentance.<br /><br />4:19 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Lamech</span> celebrates his sin in song. (This is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">only</span> the second use of verse and it is already corrupted to glorify sin rather then God)<br /><br />4L19 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Lamech</span> is the first polygamist mentioned.<br /><br />4:26 Seth and his son <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Enoch start</span> the first revival as people begin to call on the name of the Lord.<br /><br />5:3 Seth is the likeness of Adam and Man is the likeness of God.<br /><br />5:21-28 are there two <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">genealogies</span> with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Enoch</span>, Methuselah and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Lamech</span>?<br /><br />5:32 Noah is the old father at 500.<br /><br />6:4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Nephalim</span> not the "sons of God." The are probably <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">spiritual</span> offspring of Satan with demonic powers.<br /><br />6:4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Nephalim</span> are possibly around after the flood (?)<br /><br />6:5 Total <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Depravity</span>-EVERY deed was evil<br /><br />6:15 Why did <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Moses include</span> this detail for the ark?<br /><br />6:19 "of ever sort" not all<br /><br />7:3 God desired more clean animals for food and sacrifice.<br /><br />7:4 Noah was on the Ark seven days before the rain began.<br /><br />7:16 God shuts Noah in the ark.<br /><br />8:20 the first altar is mentioned.<br /><br />8:21 God promises not to curse the ground again because of man.<br /><br />8:21 God proclaims the evil of man's heart from his youth.<br /><br />8:22 God promises never to destroy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">everything</span> again as long as the remains.<br /><br />9:1-2 God give <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Noah</span> and his sons the same blessing as Adam and Eve - children and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">dominion</span>.<br /><br />9:3 God gives animals to be eaten<br /><br />9:6 God demands the life of a murderous man.<br /><br />9:9 God establishes the fist covenant.<br /><br />10:5 people spread and languages change.<br /><br />10:8 Nimrod, a mighty man, hunter <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">before</span> the Lord. Seems to run rebellious kingdom<br /><br />10:25 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Peleg</span> - the earth was divided.<br /><br />11:1 Babel seems to occur before the spread since there was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">only</span> one language.<br /><br />11:4 "name for ourselves" shows their pride and arrogance.<br /><br />11:4 The purpose of the tower to keep them from dispersing, caused their dispersion.<br /><br />12:3 God plans redemption through Abram.<br /><br />12:7 Abram builds <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">altar</span> consecrating the promised land.<br /><br />13:4 Abram returns to the first altar.<br /><br />13:6 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">We move</span> from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">famine</span> to such great blessing that the land can't handle it.<br /><br />13:15 God promises all the land to Abram "forever" hence Israel 1949<br /><br />13:18 Abram builds a third altar consecrating the land.<br /><br />14:12 Lot, who keeps moving closer to Sodom, is captured.<br /><br />14:18 El <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Elyon</span> - God Most High<br /><br />14:18 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">Melchizedek</span> (meaning king of righteousness) has come to know the true God<br /><br />14:23 Abram did not desire that the king of Sodom could say he gave Abram his wealth.<br /><br />15:1 First of many "fear <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">nots</span>"<br /><br />15:1 The Lord is Abram's shield.<br /><br />15:13 God tells Abram of Egyptian <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">enslavery</span> for 400 years.<br /><br />15:14 God plans great possessions for Israel.<br /><br />15:15 Abram is told he will dies <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">peacefully</span> and old.<br /><br />15:18 Abram sleeps as God <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">makes</span> His covenant with him.<br /><br />16:3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Sarai</span> (like Eve) take<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">s leadership</span> and Abram sins.<br /><br />16:5 Big surprise <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Sarai</span> is upset that <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">Hagar</span> is pregnant.<br /><br />16:12 The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">future</span> of Ishmael and those that come from him is told. How clear is this prophesy seen in Islam today.<br /><br />16:13 A God of seeing - only use<br /><br />17:1 God Almighty<br /><br />17:5 Abram becomes Abraham. This barren aged <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">couple</span> is the father of a <strong>multitude</strong> of nations.<br /><br />Note: There is no if...then statement in either the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">Noatic</span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">Abrahamic</span> covenant. It is all God's work of redemption by His grace alone.<br /><br />17:10 circumcision('m not sure if circumcision of the heart is less <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">painful</span>, but it sure makes me cringe less)<br /><br />-this covenant is made in the flesh even though it is "everlasting"<br /><br />17:14 The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">uncircumcised</span> are cut off from the people of God.<br /><br />17:15 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_47">Sarai</span> becomes Sarah. Both names mean princess. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_48">Sarai</span> might mean the nobility she came from and Sarah is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_49">about the</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_50">nobility</span> that shall come.<br /><br />17:18-19 The Lord sovereign elects Isaac and not Ishmael.<br /><br />17:23 Ishmael <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_51">receives</span> the sign of the covenant through circumcision.<br /><br />18:1 The Lord appears to Abraham (Christ?)<br /><br />18:3 Three men are there, but Abraham refers to them as "O Lord"<br /><br />18: 9-10 The term "they" is used, but in the next verse "Lord" is used.<br /><br />18:12 Sarah laughs.<br /><br />18:14 "Is anything to hard for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_52">the Lord</span>" NO! Amen<br /><br />18:24-33 wondering if this is where the phrase "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_53">jewed</span> him down" begins (I hate that phrase)<br /><br />19:1 Two angels-perhaps of the three men, the other was the Lord that spoke to Abraham<br /><br />19:2 Lot invites the angels in<br /><br />19:4 "To the last man" everyman in this town was wicked.<br /><br />19:8 Lot offers his daughter instead of the men (maybe this is why they are so screwed up)<br /><br />19:10 angels rescue Lot "shut the door"<br /><br />19:11 the men are struck blind.<br /><br />19:14 Lots <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_54">sons</span>-in-laws would not heed the warning and were destroyed.<br /><br />19:16 Lot lingers but the angels "seize him" (God's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_55">determination</span> to save Lot)<br /><br />19:21 Lot flees back to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_56">Zoar</span><br /><br />19:24 God rains sulphur and fire on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_57">Sodom</span> and Gomorrah and all the valley<br /><br />19:26 Lot's wife turned into a pillar of salt (Lord give me faith to believe)<br /><br />19:29 Abraham's faith saved Lot.<br /><br />19:30 Lot goes from abundance to living in a cave<br /><br />19:31 Lot's daughters are messed up!<br /><br />20:2 Abraham lies about Sarah again. This woman is over 90 and still got men wanting her body.<br /><br />20:6 God keeps <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_58">Abimelech</span> from sinning.<br /><br />20:14 though <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_59">Abraham</span> lied <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_60">Abimelech</span> offers gifts to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_61">Abraham</span>.<br /><br />20:17 After the gifts are given to wombs of the women of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_62">Abimelech's</span> family are opened. Apparently Abraham and Sarah were here <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_63">for</span> a while.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-30543298134313109092008-08-21T20:35:00.001-05:002008-08-21T21:32:19.200-05:00Returning to the LightI feel as though walls are closing in around me.<br /><br />With <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">entertainment</span> and decor jobs drying up.<br />Loans and bills flooding in as a tidal wave.<br />My dad's latest betrayal of my step-mom.<br />My mother's constant worry and nagging about returning to school and finding a "real" job.<br />The enemy's attempt to corrupt God's revelation of my sin. Flaunting it in m face trying to hide the grace that Christ has taken the sin upon Himself.<br />And the feeling of uselessness that constantly haunts me.<br /><br />It is not worry or anxiety.<br />It is different. As I wrote yesterday it is a darkness.<br /><br />And so I retreat into the Light.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Psa</span> 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.<br /><br />As I feel useless I go to the most useful book in all of creation.<br />2Ti 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.<br /><br />Over the next few weeks I will embark deeply into the Word of God for the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nourishment</span> of my soul.<br /><br />I ask you prayers as I read through His Word. I pray for the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">strength</span> and discipline not to be distracted by trivial notions. I pray that I only take time for fellowship, teaching and sharing that which God shows me.<br /><br />Thank you for your prayers.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-73947615823290956872008-08-21T16:44:00.003-05:002008-08-21T16:49:00.464-05:00CulminationI just got the official word that my dad and step-mom were splitting up. He mentioned it in passing as he screamed at me about insurance that isn't due for 10 more days. Apparently, he cheated on her. Again.<br /><br />What else can I expect from an unregenerate man?<br /><br />I pray God will bring both of them to Himself in Christ.<br /><br />I think the posts from the last two days have been a lead up to this. Interesting.<br /><br />On top of that looks like I'll be alone most of the weekend. No plans.<br /><br />This really sucks.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14850169.post-18806531105072493522008-08-20T23:41:00.004-05:002008-08-21T01:37:31.050-05:00Sovereign Depression2Co 4:8-12 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; (9) persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; (10) always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. (11) For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. (12) So death is at work in us, but life in you.<br /><br /><br />From time to time I suffer from depression. It is not just that I'm sad, but its as though a deep emptiness or darkness just comes over me and I cannot fight it off.<br /><br />I pray and read and worship and it still refuses to lift.<br /><br />I sit in the dark at times just sobbing and sometimes I can't even figure out why. Its similar to being in a crowed room and yet being all alone. It can hit without warning or reason.<br /><br />I am thankful that in this suffering their is one constant. God.<br /><br />I've heard people say that Christians do not get depressed, but I believe that this depression comes from God.<br /><br />I serve a sovereign LORD who not only creates, but controls all things.<br /><br />That is my one constant beam of hope in this darkness.<br /><br />It is what allows me to continue to worship. For every trial and sickness brought upon me is from the LORD and in that the depths of my heart rejoice.Jason Vaughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14440609070905884747noreply@blogger.com0