Sticks and Stones

Do your words lift others up or do they squash the hope out of them?

Today's Scripture:

Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit - you choose.

Proverbs 18:21

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." If you remember this nursery rhyme, you probably also remember the words to which you were responding. In fact, even children know that words do hurt. Often you realize the importance of words when you are the victim of a hurtful comment, even as an adult. Seldom do you realize how hurtful words are when you are the one speaking them.

You must realize that your words are powerful and carry great influence. Words can give life or kill it. You have a choice.

With your words, you can stifle effectiveness in your ogranization. Or you can inspire momentum, impart courage, and instill hope.

If a once loyal partner or coworker leaves your organization, choose to impart hope for new opportunities. If someone makes a risky decision that fails, choose to comfort him and encourage his continued innovation.

Words have consequences, and you must accept those consequences. Begin your conversation with the end result in mind. You must choose what you want to cultivate in your relationships. You will reap what you sow, even through speaking. So, speak life and reap life. Give encouragement; receive encouragement. Be a friend; find a friend and lead a friend to Christ. In choosing your response, you choose your consequence.

Selah people' and friends give yourself three to five seconds to think before choosing your words. Then you will respond by choice and react by decision rather than impulse. Plant words of life and reap rapport and relationship.

"Peace and joy be yours and mine as we choose to use words of encouragement instead of words of hate."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Invisible Vogue

Are you as committed to making yourself look

as good on the inside as you do the outside?

Today's Scripture:

Your beauty should come from within you - the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit that will never be destroyed and is very precious to God.

1 Peter 3:4

As you prepare to enter that most important meeting or sharing that critical presentation for the week, you check the mirror. You find that your newest tie, that name brand suit or perhaps for you ladies shoes that are just right with a dress that craves respect and beauty, like the magazine where it first caught your eye. With meticulous hair, manicured nails, and perfectly whitened teeth, you acknowledge that you will make a perfect first impression...just looking at yourself and how you have put yourself together makes you exude confidence.

You need to make a positive impression on others, so it is easy to get caught up in the newest look or hottest label of cutting-edge fashion, this is true for both men and women. Unfortunately, that perfect look isn't permanent. The clothes will wear and go out of style, the hair will gray or perhaps fall out, the nails will chip or break, and the teeth will stain again.

Maintaining the look of a leader is more about cultivating character than charisma.

It is important for yo to cultivate true beauty that never fades. One might expect a leader to be described as a "mover and shaker," rather than "gentle and quiet in spirit." Insight reveals "gentile" as a type of reliance on God to defend your injustices, and "quiet" as being steadfast in spirit. When you become confident enough to know that you do not have to defend every decision, and you are secure with your own God-given abilities, you exude the beauty of character that radiates from within and is precious to God. Take as much time cultivating inner beauty as you do you physical diet, exercise and yes grooming and putting that nice starch and crease - just so -in your clothing to top off your outer beauty, and if you do you will make a positive and lasting first impression not only on many, but on God the one who counts most of all as well.

Selah people' and friends conduct a character checkup today. If there is an area in which you are not relying on God to resolve a situation or even allowing his guidance by taking it to him in prayer, choose today to being to pray and commit it to him. Allow God to help you truly be all you can be, both inside and out.

"Peace can be yours if you will open up and allow God to do an extreme makeover on your insides that the world will see on the outside."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

CAUTION: Bridge Under Construction

Are you ready to move on to the other side?

Today Scripture:

The Lord says, "Forget what happened before, and do not think about the past. Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening. Don't you see it? I will make a road in the dessert and rivers in the dry land."

Isaiah 43:18-19

Change happens. In fact, change is one consistent characteristics of all progress. Think of the transportation system. At times roads need reconstruction because the asphalt has deteriorated and potholes have formed. Other roads need reconstruction because of economic growth that increases traffic and requires expansion of the roadways. A detour, bridge, or some other change agent will be required in the transition through the change - and even though there is hope for safer and faster travel, the drivers usually get frustrated in the process.

Whether propelled by failure or success, change is inevitable. You must be a change agent if you are going to be an effective and progressive leader. Change begins with a vision of something better. So often leaders have great vision for their organization and share the vision of progress with their followers, expecting everyone to jump on board, ready to enjoy the ride. As change agent, you should expect resistance among those who will be part of the change.

But you have the exciting privilege of stirring enthusiasm for the new vision.

Focusing on the "new thing," you lay out the plan for addressing change. You are the change agent - the temporary road or detour that moves people from the old system to the new one. You can relieve the sense of anxiety, create a sense of possibility, and instill an attitude of adventure among the people involved in the change by sharing a vision of something greater to come.

Selah people' and friends if you have a process that is not working well in your group, family or organization, envision a better way. Write down the vision. Make a plan to communicate the vision and construct the change. Know that with God you and I can bridge the gap to a new way of living and doing.

"May we move forward beginning today no longer clinging to the past but moving forward to what God has planned for us in the future."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Surplus Dreams

Do you have big dreams, what can God do through you?

Today's Scripture:

With that kind of hope to excite us, nothing holds us back.

2 Corinthians 3:12

Do you live in the comfort zone of your capability, or do you dare to dream in your role as a leader? A leader's ability to have the biggest dreams of anyone in your organization, family or work is significant. When you plan, make it a three-pronged plan by setting a goal, marking a hope, and daring a dream.

Carry your goals all the way through to attaining your dreams. Goal setting is familiar to leaders. Goals should be attainable but challenging for your organization and family. Once you have set your goal, next mark your hope. What do you really hope you will achieve if everyone is working to his or her best capability? The final prong of planning is more daring. What do you dream? What is the impossible that you would be foolish to say aloud? When you know this is impossible in your own power and capability - you have arrived at exceeding, abundant thinking. God can do even more than that for you and through you.

In your three-pronged planning, motivate your entire organization by sharing your goals, hopes, and dreams.

Surplus planning almost guarantees success above and beyond your original goal.

It raises the standard of excellence without burdening your followers (or yourself) with undue pressure. God is able to step into your organization or family and do the dream - even above what you can imagine or request.

Selah people' and friends examine your goals. Can you press them a little further? Take a daring approach and plan beyond your stated goal. Show exceeding, abundant thinking in your plan.

"Raise your level of expectation and allow God to go bigger than you ever thought possible."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

What God Did Just for You

Today's Scripture:

God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son so that whoever believes in him may not be lost, but have eternal life.

John 3:16

The famous verse John 3:16 is an important one for all. It speaks of God's love for you and his great gift to you: eternal life. Yesterday I was without my mini-laptop as I had left it with one of my members during a visit at Wake Med on Wednesday. Our family laptop had a virus that I needed to remove and during the process of working on that computer it made me just think of the basics of life and God's love the familiar John 3:16 came to my mind. One of my facebook friends made statement about living and her friend said "he wanted to live forever" I commented by saying I did too and that the Bible tells that I can and will live forever if I just believe. 

As I put my children to bed and still battled to repair of my computer via various scans and software, while watching my former fraternity brother and college football teammate & friend Schapp' on the TV show "Warriors". I watched Terry in a battle his with shield and sword and as he fought and shared his story I could here God speaking and basically telling me that all would be well again for me again just as he had promised. 

God loves you more than you can imagine. He loves the whole world. God's love inextinguishable, eternal, personal, and life-giving. 

That love is yours for the taking. Just accept it at face value, and God will be pleased. God has given you more than anyone would ever expect. He might have given you money or a mansion or a beautiful spouse, children and family or any number of other things for your enjoyment. But what he gave- his Son-encompasses all those things. God gave everything for you. God's peace and love is yours for the taking.

God made it simple as possible to come to know him. What does he ask of you? Faith. Simply believe in his Son. Believe that what God says is true. That's it. Nothing more is needed. As a pastor I council people young and old, single and married or divorced. People speak of walking down to the alter, being baptized, joining the church, seeing a bright light or maybe even hearing a voice. All this is wonderful but not needed according to God's word. As I sit looking out my window watching the rain God sends I am thankful that God made our salvation easy. There is very little in life that is simpler or easier than that. God has made it uncomplicated and always available; he wants everyone to accept his gift. Anyone willing to accept and believe in Jesus gains all of God's blessings. God gave the greatest gift possible: eternal life, and that includes everything else in life-love, joy, peace, a home in heaven, friends. He has held nothing back.

Selah people' and friends as I reconnect with old high school and college friends I think of how far he has brought and what he has pulled me through (losing friends, family, several near death experiences that only by his grace I am still alive) over the years. You and I obtain all of these grand blessings by faith, as the verse says. It remains a great promise to men and women of all ages and all times and all places. What it meant 2000 years ago it still means as much today that simply by believing in Jesus, we can gain the greatest blessings God has to offer. 

"Peace and joy come as we come to know just what God did for you."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Quiet amid Chaos - this one is for the girls!

We all need a moment to stop and enjoy the moment...

Today's Scripture:

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

Psalm 46: 10

Three words can aptly describe the average christian...especially a christian woman today: busy, busy, busy. She hurries from one project or need to another, taking care of others and balancing demands. Studies show that not only is the average woman busy from the time she wakes to the time she goes to bed, but she also is reducing her sleep time because she just has too much to do.

It is tough for many women to slow down for anything - even God. This not only affects a woman's physical life, but also her spiritual life.

It is important for women to be still and know God for a couple of reasons.

In taking time to be with God, a woman builds her relationship with him. As she focuses on God, she remembers how vast God is. She thinks about God knowing everything, being everywhere, and being the focus of the universe. That puts her life into perspective as she sees the big picture of God and takes the focus off her own limited world and limited control. Perhaps most important, when a woman is still, she is refreshed spiritually and gains a new sense of how important she is to God and yes to her family. As a woman is still before God, she hears his voice - his loving, supportive, nurturing and yes reassuring voice.

Selah people' and friends slow down. Men help facilitate this for those special women in your life. Wash and put those dishes or clothes away. Make time to pick up her load and allow her to lay back and listen to still small voice that is our God speaking to her. Ladies avoid being so busy with the necessities of life that you forget to nourish your soul. Take time to be still in God's vastness. Somehow everything important will get done, and you'll find fresh rest for your life. This blog was incomplete as I thought of my wife handling my load of putting the children to bed while I was on my ride home from hospital visit at Wake med late last night. Take time out for God.

"Peace be yours as you make time for Quiet amid the Chaos we call life."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

The Can-Do Attitude

Influence others with a positive attitude and a pat-on-the-back!

Today's Scripture:

A good leader motivates, doesn't mislead, doesn't exploit.

Proverbs 16:10

Some stakes should be too high for employees and leaders alike. Often office, school and business politics offer manipulation and exploitation under the guise of networking and doing what it takes. In an exchange of "If you do this, then I will do that," manipulation may be the motivating force in managing results. You can "do what it takes" by remaining a positive influence in even the most political atmosphere.

Because of your integrity, it is imperative for you to embrace the fact that good leaders motivate; they don't mislead or exploit.

Good leaders motivate positively and respectfully. Your job is to promote a motivating environment that not only yields positive results and profits for the individual and company, but also cultivates employee and team satisfaction and worth.

Your encouragement and optimism will excite and energize others. A positive attitude is contagious.

Creating a can-do attitude is the key. You must first cultivate your own attitude within. Out of your own spirit, you can then motivate others to have an optimistic outlook. Catchphrases that have been used in schools and businesses alike are those such as: "If you can dream it, you can do it, "If you can believe it you can achieve it." Even the three musketeers' "All for one and one for all" references the can-do attitude. By influencing others with your own positive attitude, you will cultivate a spirit of camaraderie that initiates achievement.

Selah people' and friends when it comes to leading people toward a can-do attitude, a pat on the back works a lot better than a kick in the pants.

"Peace be with you as you strive to be a disciple who motivates and encourages others."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Setting the Tone

How do you celebrate, motivate and spark initiative
with your friends, family or group?

Today's Scripture:

Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.

Hebrews 10:24

Even though most people appreciate materialistic rewards, they are not satisfied with material perks or financial gain alone. Since Elton Mayo's Hawthorne Studies around 1930, leaders have understood that workers are more influenced by social demands, the need for recognition, and a sense belonging than they are by raises and bonuses. You set the tone for the atmosphere that will motivate people to achieve company or family goals while attaining personal fulfillment by encouraging acts of love and kindness among others.

The catalyst to attaining a satisfying and productive organization is encouraging your team to express care and compassion through words and actions.

You need to think of ways to encourage this setting. It will not develop on its own, but must be intentional. Your list of strategies to set the tone might include a meditation or Scripture of the day, the celebration of birthdays and achievements, a company coffee club for breaks, special team lunches, family wellness plans, and flexible compensation time. The company newsletter, e-mail groups, team meetings, and family dinners are good avenues to disperse encouragement with little or no cost to the organization.

Your initiative and intention in setting the tone will reap many rewards for your organization. When you strive to meet the personal needs of your followers, your organization will develop stronger unity and a more loyal and satisfied team.

Selah people' and friends make a decision to unify your team, family or group. Then, establish a new tradition that provides an opportunity for them to engage in conversation and compassion. Celebrate our successes perhaps with chest bumps, high fives or like our President Obama & first lady Michelle with the "fist bumps".

"Let us grow stronger both as Christians and as a team for Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Safety in Numbers

Do you have a small group of others to advise you?

Today's Scripture:

Get advice if you want your plans to work. If you go to war, get the advice of others.

Proverbs 20:18

Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. Whether you are the top leader in your own organization or a homemaker leading your children, you endure difficult decisions with challenging choices. Often, even when you have prayed, listed your pros and cons, and given much thought to the matter, you are still lacking clear direction for your decision. You must remember that God hears every prayer. Sometimes he answers you directly and sometimes he counsels through others' advice.

A leader is wise to develop a system of getting advice. You may form an advisory board, leadership team, accountability group, or circle of friends.

Whatever you want to name it, you need a small group of trusted advisers who can share their wisdom with you in your decision making process.

An effective GROUP advisers offers: Godly wisdom, Realism, Optimism, Understanding, and Perseverance. Be sure to invite godly wisdom. God's truths are universal and have been proved successful. Advice should line up with the Word of God and be prayerfully given. A realist will give you a perspective of the good, the bad, and the ugly; whereas an optimist will give you the bright side of possibilities. It is wise to keep a balance of both. With a strong understanding of your mission and vision, an adviser will help to keep you on a path you want to travel. Finally, your group should be persevering. A strong group of advisers provides the safety in numbers you need as a leader.

Selah people' and friends examine how the five most influential people in your life fit into your GROUP. If some GROUP roles are missing, pray and ask God to direct you in relationships that will fill those voids.

"Join me in coming together united with others as we grow in Christ and share the good news."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Two-Fisted Leadership

Are you prepared and equipped for battle?

Today's Scripture:

Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon. Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built.

Nehemiah 4:17-18

An effective leader spurs progress. But you must understand that progress brings change and change sometimes brings adversity. You can handle the distraction of adversity by following Nehemiah's example. Nehemiah was a leader with a mission to rebuild the wall of ancient Jerusalem, which would provide protection, privacy, and prosperity for his followers. But as with all leaders, Nehemiah faced adversaries. His adversity came from both the outside competition and his own people inside.

Nehemiah's is an ideal and important example for you because he faced mockery, ridicule, doubt, even physical threats against his mission. By example, Nehemiah tells the leader how to handle adversity - work two-fisted. With a brick in one hand, Nehemiah continued to build the wall and equipped his team to build with him. He continued with forward progress while he addressed the challengers. In the other hand, he held a weapon. Now, as a leader you might not literally hold a weapon today, but you can be prepared and equipped for the battle. Nehemiah did not ignore the insults or naively underestimate the adversary. He did realize the seriousness of the battle and stayed in a protective and defensive stance.

As a leader, you can follow this example. When you know that a change is inevitable or needed, use two-fisted leadership.

Equip and empower your team to build success in the face of adversity.

Establish your purpose, present your plan, and protect your process to accomplish your vision.

Selah people' and friends examine today's biggest challenge. Write down what tools you will use to continue progress and what methods you will utilize to address challenges. Then keep moving in forward progress.

"Peace be yours as you and put both hands up and serve our Lord."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Hidden Cameras

Remember every act is being watched

by the most important audience...God!

Today's Scripture:

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.

Proverbs 15:3

Many days offer moments when you are sure that Candid Camera must be taping you. Some days things just go awry, or you may even be the one to go off-kilter. Leaders have their share of opportunities to make innocent mistakes, moral blunders, and ethical compromises. You may have privately experienced moments of decision or emotion that you would not want to share publicly.

Fortunately, every minute of the leader's day is not caught on tape to be scrutinized by others. However, there is a constant audience keeping watch on evil and good alike. So, how do you keep yourself accountable without placing every decision on display for others to judge? Remember that your most important audience is God. He watches your misdeeds and mistakes for sure, but he sees them through a lens of mercy. The great news is that he doesn't limit his viewing to the embarrassing scenes that you would rather forget.

God is not a faultfinder. He is not watching, waiting only for a leader's indiscretion; he also watches for good. He sees you when you take a stand for righteousness.

God sees you when you give a simple compliment to the sometimes-over-looked receptionist.

He sees all the deeds that others in your organization or family and friends may not be able to see. God sees all, and he is admiring your good works too.

Selah people' and friends you should review your bloopers and blunders each day. Look at the hidden camera recordings, viewing as God does with mercy. Correct your mistakes daily, and commend your successes also.

"What was recorded today for you? Good or bad how about tomorrow?"

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Leadership Lifestyle

Join us as we continue to lead others on our climb...

Today's Scripture:

Wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

James 3:17

The higher you are in a position of leadership, the broader your influence will become on others and the more pervasive the responsibility will be on your life. When you accept the responsibility of influencing others. Maybe you did not realize you were signing up for a lifestyle when you agreed to lead the church committee or accepted the promotion at work.

Leadership is not a job; it is a lifestyle.

Lifestyle leadership requires godly wisdom. Therefore, the wisdom described in James 3:17 is important for you because it presents a hierarchy or ladder of wise traits for the leader. Each characteristic builds upon the previous one and must be an integrated and true part of your lifestyle.

You cultivate a pure motive and character, which enables you to bring peace to others. You can then add peace with fairness to everyone in a situation. As you evolve as a wise leader, you will care for those in need and help meet their needs through your good deeds for them. As this display of wisdom becomes ingrained in your lifestyle, you will become more unwavering and genuine in you leadership in every area of your life. I have experienced this first hand as a husband, father, friend and most clearly as the pastor of Selah Church. God gives big vision as you gain big belief. Leadership is not a role that you play, but an expression of your wisdom to benefit others. The higher you climb in leadership, the less room you have for anonymity and conformity and the more room you have to influence others to greatness. This is why I feel led to share on Facebook with my friends and not just talk-the-talk but walk-the-walk with you.

Selah people' and friends make a list of ten people, including family, friends, and colleagues, whom you most influence regularly. Trust me you do have influence over others. Pray and ask God to show you how to be an even wiser influence on each person.

"Trust in God and remember to lead you must trust and believe that you can achieve. Take someone by the hand and let them know just how much God loves them and wants the best for them."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Church Leaders Intelligence 3-18-2009

Selah people' and Friends,

Here is a newsletter to help inform of current challenges that we all face as Christians living and growing today. We will be moving toward the theme of "Leadership" this spring having completed 40 days of Fireproofing our Relationships series. I am excited to have you join me as we continue our journey during this season of Lent.

Have a Blessed week!

Rev Patrick Muston

Be the Leader You Want to Follow

God has given each of us a unique personality...

are using it to lead others to him?

Today's Scripture:

You who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for-God has had it with the proud, but takes delight in just plain people.

1 Peter 5:5

Some of the most loved presidents have been those described as "just plain people." They were approachable, genuine, real, and down-to-earth. Followers want a leader with whom they can relate, and who can relate to them. You may not be president of a nation or even a corporation, but because you have influence, it is important for you to be sincerely concerned for others while being yourself. The higher up you go in leadership, the easier it becomes to isolate yourself from others whom you are leading. You may find it equally as challenging to associate with executives in the morning as with your children in the evening.

By remaining authentic, you can face the challenges successfully.

Jesus Christ was the greatest of all leaders . He could have easily used his positional power and separated himself from others. Instead, he embraced people and even served his disciples by washing their feet in an act of humility as told in the Gospel of John. He was an authentic servant leader.

The irony in working with many different types of people is that as long as you are trying to fit in with the crowd, you will be disconnected from them. God has created you with a unique personality. When you honor him and yourself by being authentic, a natural connection with other people opens to you.

Selah people' and friends examine your authenticity. When you act out of the natural personality and gifts God created in you, you will begin to feel at ease in your relationships...and so will others.

"Blessings to you as you face the challenges authentically and lead others to Christ in your own special way."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

This Is Your Life

Is your family ready to open the door to Christ?

Today's Scripture:

It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.

Ephesians 1:11-12

Why are you here? Is there life after death? What is truth? Is there really a universal code for right and wrong? Does your life make a difference in the big picture of history? People have debated questions like these for thousands of years. The answers to them all lie in understanding who Jesus really is.

The better you know Jesus, the better you'll know yourself and understand your place and purpose in the world.

In the original language, Jesus's "overall purpose" speaks to God's ultimate plan for the world. It's his big picture, in which you play one important, unique part. Jesus's design for you relates to his desire for your individual life. This is what Jesus wants to see happen. How you respond to Jesus's desire for you is fulfilled.

According to science, one way of determining life is by observing movement and growth. The same is true spiritually. As you act on what you understand about Jesus, you'll mature more fully into who you were created to be. By reading the Bible, spending time with God in prayer, and doing what you feel God wants you to do, you will come alive in the deepest, most authentic sense of the word. The true meaning of life will become evident in you.

Selah people' and friends consider the ways in which knowing God helps you know more about yourself. Spend some time today just talking to God about your unique place in this world.

"Peace be with you and your family as you give your life over to Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Conquerors Extraordinaire

We know the rain will come...don't be discouraged!

Today's Scripture:

In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:37-39

Consider what people dread most in life. The list could include things like war, betrayal, famine, abandonment, poverty, pain, and death. In his letter to the Romans, the apostle Paul presented a similar list. However, what Paul addressed as the most serious of all concerns was that facing tumultuous times could build a wall between God and those who believed in him, that turmoil could cut people off from God's love.

Jesus's followers in Rome were facing difficult times firsthand. Paul offered them comfort, encouragement, and hope by following his list of worst-case scenarios with the best news he could deliver. No hardship in life could prevent God's love from reaching them and leading them to victory. When Paul wrote "I am persuaded, " he meant " I'm absolutely convinced. You can stake your faith and your life on this fact."

The assurance of victory God promises through the words of Paul doesn't mean you'll get every job you apply for, always end your financial year in the black, or never contract a fatal disease.

God's promise of victory is specific to the role he's given you to fill in this life.

When you're faced with hard times, it won't be your intelligence, your talents, or your perseverance that will eventually ensure your victory. It will be God's love, working through you to keep you close to God's side and to help you rise above whatever has you down.

Selah people' and friends facing hard times can lead you to become more than victorious because hard times make you depend more on God and on his strength than on your own.

"God has promised us a victory so let us live as conquerors in Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Tempered for Transformation

Baptism is a symbolic illustration of what Jesus

went through to bring about our spiritual life.

Today's Scripture:

When we were baptized, we were buried with Christ and shared his death. So, just as Christ was raised from the dead by wonderful power of the Father, we also can live a new life.

Romans 6:4

In ancient Greece, a metalsmith "baptized" hot iron by dipping it into water. This act tempered the metal, strengthening it and helping set the specific shape the smith had chosen for the iron to take. My friend and college football teammate Terry Schappert made a point to bring this out in his first show called "Warriors" on the history channel. We see iron dipped to temper and finish his work. In some respects, that's what baptism does for those who believe in God. It tempers them. It helps strengthen how closely they identify with God and their new form of life in a public yet personal way.

The New Testament records many instances of baptism, including Jesus's own baptism in the Jordan River. The Greek word for baptize means "to immerse."

That's what early Christians did. Early Christians were immersed in water as an outward sign of the inward change God had brought into their lives.

Time and again in Scripture, one of the first things people did after choosing to believe in God was to ask to be baptized. They wanted to demonstrate to God and to those around them that they were serious about their new found faith.

Baptism is a symbolic illustration of what Jesus went through to bring about our new spiritual life. I remember my own baptism at Little River Baptist Church in Little River, TX...last Sunday I had the honor of baptizing my oldest child along with two other young people and sharing that water with them. Being lowered into the water symbolizes Jesus's death and burial in a tomb. Being raised from the water is a picture of Jesus's rising from the dead and beginning a new kind of life, one that doesn't end in death. According to the Bible, baptism doesn't wash away your sins or gain you entrance into heaven. What it does is demonstrate your desire to fully live the life God created you to live.

Selah people' and friends different churches have different traditions about how and when people are baptized. Why you want to be baptized, and not the method in which your baptism takes place, is what in my opinion matters the most to God.

"Peace and joy be yours as you are transformed into all that Christ has planned for you to be."

Your pastor,
Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

The Straight Scoop...

Jesus tells it like it is...

Today's Scripture:

Jesus said, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

John 16:33

When you want to calm people's anxiety, elaborating on their current problems and then reminding them that more trouble is headed their way is usually not the recommended modus operandi. But that's exactly the approach Jesus took with his disciples at the Last Supper. He explained that he would be leaving them, that there was a betrayer in their midst. Jesus told the disciples they'd be hated and persecuted and would even face death because of their faith in him.

Jesus's telling his disciples to "be of good cheer" after all of this sounds like a coach's telling his losing team to "look on the bright side." However, in ancient Greek, telling someone to "cheer up" was not a verbal pat on the back. It meant to take courage in the face of danger.

Jesus didn't offer his closet friends pessimistic predictions or optimistic platitudes. He simply told them the truth.

Part of this truth was that both peace and victory could be theirs even when the world seemed to be falling apart all around them. Jesus challenged his disciples to be over comers rather than to be overcome by their problems. Just like the disciples, you will have trouble in this life. Jesus guaranteed it. However, by focusing on God's power, promises, and presence in your life, you, too, can find the courage and comfort you need to face any trouble that comes your way.

Selah people' and friends the Bible never sugarcoats the fact that life isn't easy. Its overall message, however, is one of hope and healing. You can always trust God to be honest about the good and the bad.

"Bless you as you receive God's word straight as he intended."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Uniquely Equal

Regardless of how we look we all have the same value in God's eyes...

Today's Scripture:

In Christ, there is no difference between Jew and Greek, slave and free person, male and female. You are all the same in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:28

During Jesus's time, the culture was filled with social division. Jews kept their distance from Gentiles. Slaves were treated like property instead of people. A woman's worth was often determined by her ability to bear children. She wasn't allowed to study the Scriptures or own property. Men and women who weren't acquainted wouldn't dare speak in public, and even those who knew one another well would never have any kind of physical contact outside their own home.

Jesus changed all that. He spoke with women, taught them, and encouraged them to teach others. He took those who were ill by the hand, regardless of their gender,

Jesus conversed with Jews and Gentiles, servants and leaders, tax collectors and prostitutes.

He even dared to touch lepers, who were considered the lowest of all outcasts by the rest of society. Jesus treated every person with dignity and compassion. That's because he knew who each individual really was - a person created in the image of God.

The ways people look , act and live are incredibly diverse, but each one has the same value in God's eyes. If racial, social, and gender distinctions don't hinder God's love for individuals, they shouldn't hinder yours. Ask God to help you see people as he does, worthy of your love, your time, and your wholehearted acceptance.

Selah people' and friends you can disagree with people's opinions, beliefs, or lifestyles and still love and accept them as individuals. Read through the book of John, taking special note of how Jesus does exactly that. Choose today to grab someone and shake their hand or share a hug.

"Peace be yours as you grow in Christ and share his love with all his children."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Jesus Makes House Calls...

Are you ready to change directions and follow Jesus?

Today's Scripture:

Jesus said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance."

Luke 5:31-32

Jesus had asked fishermen to follow him and become disciples. However, Jesus's most recent choice for a disciple was raising more than a few eyebrows among Jewish religious leaders. Matthew was a tax collector, and tax collectors were despised by Jews and Gentiles alike. The rate of taxes people had to pay was vague, so it was easy for tax collectors to charge people more than they should. Then the tax collectors would use the excess they received to live extravagant lifestyles. For the Jews, the fact that a Jewish tax collector would even associate with Gentiles was itself a problem. Even if Matthew was an honest, God fearing Jew, he was viewed by his peers as a disputable sinner.

The Pharisee challenged Jesus's association with Matthew - and Jesus's attending a party at Matthew's house with other sinners just like him. Jesus's response was a bit tongue-in-cheek. He spoke to the Pharisees' view of themselves, that they were righteous and spiritually healthy, which they were not. By doing so, he emphasized how his time should be spent with those who needed his help most, instead of with those who didn't recognize their need.

Jesus called people not just to follow him, but to repent.

Repentance is not changing your actions to become more righteous. Repentance is totally changing the direction you are headed.

It is allowing God to change your mind and heart to be more in line with his own. Once you do that, a change in your actions, plans, and attitudes will naturally follow.

Selah people' and friends Matthew's change of direction was so radical that he wound up writing part of the Bible, the Gospel of Matthew. Through God, your life change can be just as dramatic and significant.

"Jesus came by today to visit with you...did you let him in?"

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Empathy in Action

Jesus warned that when you follow him you will be persecuted...

Today's Scripture:

Regard prisoners as if you were in prison with them. Look on victims of abuse as if what happened to them had happened to you.

Hebrews 13:3

In the early church, it was commonplace for people who chose to follow Jesus to suffer relationally, financially, and physically for what they believed. They often lost their property, their position, and sometimes even their lives. Although no one know for sure who the author of the book of Hebrews was, one thing is certain - he was aware of the persecution that was going on all around him.

While Jesus was here on earth, he warned those who followed him that people would persecute them, just as they had him. After Jesus's death, that persecution intensified. It may seem today that people are more accepting and that persecution is a thing of the past. However, that's not true for much of the world.

There are still people who suffer for their beliefs the same way the early Christians did. The words to the Hebrews are a wake-up call for every generation. If you truly want to empathize and identify with those who are facing persecution (which is who the author of Hebrews was specifically talking about), you will do more than just feel sorry for them. You will put your empathy into action. A good place to begin is with prayer. Ask God to protect people who are persecuted, to provide them with the strength and courage they need to face their struggles. As you pray, God may lead you to take social action.

God may choose to use you to help answer the prayer of someone around the world.

Selah people' and friends become more aware of the persecution going on in the world. You can talk with our own Michael & LeeAnn Higgins and found out more about the Kairos ministry and how God could use you either being apart of praying for the team and those inside the prison, being apart of baking the cookies or maybe God is calling you to go in and be apart of the team that brings Christ to these persecuted at

http://www.kairosprisonministry.org/ .

Another online source is by logging on to http://www.persecution.com/ . This nonprofit, interdenominational organization The Voice of the Martyrs provides ways for you to put Hebrew 13:3 into action.

"Choose today to break free and help another of God's children."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Totally in Agreement with God

Often we come together as friends and confess through song or prayer...

Today's Scripture:

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.

Romans 10: 9-10

In the Bible, the word confession is rich with meaning. In the Hebrew language of the Old Testament, confession meant at the same time "to praise God" and "to admit your sins." One could not be separated from the other.

Personal confession was often done in public through song or prayer. Personal confession was a time of repentance and rejoicing intertwined.

In the Greek language of the New Testament, confess meant "to say the same thing." To confess that Jesus is Lord meant that you were saying the same thing about Jesus that God did, agreeing with everything Scripture had to say about who he was and what he did for you. Whether you were confessing your sins or confessing that Jesus is God, in essence you were saying, "I agree with what God says is true."

In the early church, no Jew or Gentile would publicly say that Jesus was God unless he or she truly believed it. Because of the threat of persecution, people were probably much less likely to base their faith on their feelings than on a carefully considered intellectual conclusion. Once you come to the same life-changing conclusions as the people in the early church, talking about what you believe is a natural reaction to understanding what God has done for you.

Selah people' and Friends the author's words in the original language speak about confession and belief as ongoing activities. Confessing and believing should play an active part in the everyday experience of those who choose to trust God.

"Peace be yours as you come to agreement with God and truly believe you should make him apart of your daily life."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Invisible Servants

Are you allowing the angels to serve and guide you?

Today's Scripture:

All the angels are spirits who serve God and are sent to help those who will receive salvation.

Hebrews 1:14

Angels are "in" today. There are books about encounters with angels, jewelry designs that symbolize angelic protection, and popular catchphrases claiming that "friends are angels without wings." Back in Jesus's day, people were as intrigued by the mystery of angelic beings as they are today. After Jesus's death, there was even some speculation that Jesus wasn't really God, but instead a powerful angel sent from heaven.

The unknown author of Hebrews wanted to set the record straight by putting angels, and Jesus, in their proper place. He began by tying together Old Testament verses that talk about Jesus, Scriptures where God declared his Son equal to him in position as King and Lord. Then the author explained the purpose of angels in God's plan of creation, as servants of both God and the people who believe in him.

Throughout Scripture, angels have served as messengers, guardians,and comforters. Although the Bible mentions them frequently enough to ensure that God wants people to know of their existence, God remains silent on the details of what they are truly like. What can be gleaned from a few brief descriptions in the Old Testament is that angels are much more like fearsome warriors, much like the ones on the History Channel...my fraternity brother and former college football teammate Terry Schappert tells the story of. They are more warrior than ephemeral creatures in gossamer gowns with white wings and golden harps.

Angels are real, and at God's command they are helping you in ways you may not be aware of.

Selah people' and friends one way angels serve God is by serving those he loves, which includes you. Although angels are powerful, they are note meant to be worshiped. Only God is worthy of that honor.

"Peace be with you knowing that our God is watching over you and we have special warriors available to hold our hands when needed."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

The Ultimate Cure...

What healing and cure are you in need of today...

Jesus has what you need!

Today's Scripture:

He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. His wound became your healing.

1 Peter 2:24

People go to extremes to find healing in this life. They will travel across the country, and even across the world, searching for a cure for what they have been told is incurable. They will try radical treatments and undergo outlandish procedures, hoping for a miracle. When word of Jesus's miraculous power started circulating throughout Palestine, people flocked to him, pleading for physical healing. Over and over again he responded to their cries. He healed blindness, leprosy, mental illness, paralysis-and even death. However, that healing wasn't permanent.Eventually each one of those people would die.

The apostle Peter had repeatedly witnessed Jesus curing the incurable. But he understood that Jesus came to offer more than temporary physical or emotional healing.

Jesus came to offer an eternal cure for physical and spiritual death.

When Peter talked about Jesus's wounds, the original Greek word is singular. There was one specific wound that offered healing. That was Jesus's death on the cross. That wound didn't begin the healing process. It finished it.

There are times when miraculous healing still occurs in this life, when tumors disappear and concern suddenly goes into remission. However, through what happened on a wooden cross two thousand years ago, you have received permanent healing for something more important than your physical health. You have been given a new life, one that has been cured of the finality of death.

The book of 1 Peter was written to slaves who knew what it was like to receive beatings and wounds they didn't deserve. Take some time today to thank Jesus for what he suffered for you.

"Peace and healing be upon you as we share the ultimate cure: Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Just Ask

When we arise from the water we open our spirit to allow God to lead us...

Today's Scripture:

If you need wisdom - if you want to know what God wants you to do - ask him, and he will gladly tell you.

James 1:5

Doing what God wants you to do is a wonderful thing. It honors God, adds joy to you life, and can make a positive difference in the world. However, knowing what God wants you to do in any given situation isn't always clear. Reading the Bible can give you some general guidelines, but knowing how to apply what you learn takes more than just diligence and good intentions. It takes discernment.

Discernment is the ability to make wise decisions when you're facing difficult circumstances. God holds an endless supply of the wisdom you need to be discerning. In the original language, the author James used words that identify God with a banker. James explained that when your own account of wisdom falls short, God will loan you some from his abundant supply. Unlike stingy money leaders who would belittle those who needed to rely on their services, James said that God is more than happy to share all of what he has with you- at no interest.

This isn't a promise that God will give you a windfall of wisdom the first time you ask for it.

The word ask actually means "to keep on asking." By continually turning to God for wisdom every time you need help, you will learn to discern the right thing to do when the pressure is on.

Selah people' and friends instead of God giving you an exact blueprint of what he wants for your life, he draws you closer to him by supplying what you need it - as you rely on him.

"Joy awaits each of us just for the asking."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Life-and-Death Issues

Is the road you are on a road of life or of death?

Today's Scripture:

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."

John 11: 25-26

Martha had a firm grasp of reality. She knew her brother, Lazarus, was dead and buried. She also knew that for some reason Jesus didn't come as soon as she and her sister, Mary had called to ask for his help. Martha believed in a heavenly resurrection, but Martha's faith in Jesus's power and love was so strong she believed there was still hope for her brother.

That's when Jesus made a bold statement. As he'd done previously, Jesus referred to himself with the words "I am," a name reserved by the Jews for God alone.

When Jesus spoke about how someone may die, then live, yet whoever lives will never die, Jesus wasn't playing semantic word games.

He was talking about two different kinds of death-physical and spiritual. Though everyone faces physical death. Faith in Jesus and his resurrection raises a person's spiritual life up from the grave, instantly and permanently.

By being both the resurrection and the life, Jesus could do more than simply restore life. He had the power to maintain it, to return it to what God originally designed it to be. Jesus demonstrated this power in a visible way by bringing Lazarus back to life. Although some day Lazarus would die again physically, thanks to his belief in Jesus Lazarus never had to face death spiritually. He would be with God through out his life on earth and beyond.

Selah people' and friends you cannot determine the day of your death, nor can I, but we can determine the day you truly come to life by believing in Jesus. Consider what resurrection means to you in a spiritual sense.

"Peace be yours as you find Christ in your life and start down the narrow road of everlasting life."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Love Rules

Jesus said "Love your neighbor as you love yourself "

Won't you be my neighbor...

Today Scripture:

One of the teachers of the law...asked Jesus, "Which of the commands is most important?" Jesus answered, "The most important command is this: 'Listen, people of Israel! The Lord our God is the only Lord. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.' The second command is this: 'Love your neighbor as you love yourself.' There are no commands more important than these."

Mark12:28-31

Teachers of the law, called scribes, were Pharisees who spent much of their time debating the meaning of Scripture. One question they were frequently divided over was "Which of God's rules is most important?" The scribes didn't debate just God's Ten Commandments, they argued over 613 rules that they derived from the first five books of the Bible, 248 "thou shalts" and 365 "thou shalt nots." To settle this argument, or perhaps to try to drag Jesus into the debate, one scribe asked Jesus this popular loaded question.

Jesus began his answer by quoting the Shema: "Listen, people of Israel! The Lord our God is the only Lord." (The Shema is a traditional confession of faith that is still recited today every morning and evening by devout Jews.) After demonstrating his knowledge of tradition and Scripture, Jesus demonstrated his wisdom. He boiled down the Ten Commandments, and even the 613 precepts, to one life-changing principle: love.

Instead of focusing on rules, Jesus told the scribe to focus on relationship. By loving God and others, every one of God's rules is fulfilled. Loving God with everything you are - with all your emotions, intellect, and energy - is what gives you the desire and the wisdom you need to love others well. Anytime you're in doubt as to what God wants you to do in a given situation, ask yourself, "Right now, how can I love God and others best?"

Selah people' and friends the word neighbor literally means "the one near you." As you go through your day, consider how many neighbors you encounter, both physically and emotionally, and what you can do to love them well.

"Peace and happiness be yours and mine as we follow God's rule of Love and truly become neighbors with all whom we come in contact with."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

God's Secret to Succes

Often when we someone mentions meditation this is our vision...But Joshua was told to allow God's words to deeply take root in his life and apply them to what he learned.

Today's Scripture:

The Lord said to Joshua, "Always remember what is written in the Book of Teachings. Study it day and night to be sure to obey everything that is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything.

Joshua 1:8

Moses led the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt, guided them safely through the parting of the Red Sea, brought them God's commandments from Mount Sinai, and led them through the desert to the boundaries of the land God had promised to give them. Then Moses died. Joshua was God's choice to lead the Israelites after Moses's death. Following in Moses's footsteps meant Joshua had big sandals to fill.

Before Joshua ventured into the Promised Land, God shared with him the secret to future success and I pass it along to all who are reading this blog. God didn't offer tips on military strategy or financial stocks or stimulus plans nor did he promise Joshua he'd receive miraculous powers. God simply reminded Joshua to let Scripture influence his life. In the original Hebrew language, God encouraged Joshua to do more than just study his words. He told Joshua to meditate on them. This kind of meditation is different from what is practiced in Eastern religions. It means to allow God's words to deeply take root in your life by turning over God's truths in your mind and applying what you learn.

The kind of success that results from allowing the Bible to come alive in your life differs from the world's definition of success. God isn't promising automatic health, wealth, and happiness as a reward for your obedience.

What he's saying is that by becoming better acquainted with Scripture, you'll succeed in filling the unique place he has set aside especially for yo in this world.

Selah people' and friends take time to meditate on God's words to Joshua. Ask God to show you how he wants you to apply them to your own life situation.

"Don't wait another day to use God's secret to success."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)

Learning to Live as One

We are called as Jesus's followers to work together...

Today's Scripture:

Jesus said, "I pray for these followers, but I am also praying for all those who will believe in me because of their teaching. Father, I pray that they can be one. As you are in me and I am in you, I pray that they can also be one in us. Then the world will believe that you sent me."

John 17: 20-22

The night before Jesus died, you were on his mind. As Jesus's last supper with his disciples drew to a close, Jesus prayed aloud to his heavenly Father. He didn't pray about what lay ahead for him. Instead, he shared what his desires were for those he left behind.

Jesus's prayer for the unity of his disciples, both present and future, reveals some important truths about how God's church is supposed to function. Jesus's example of what interaction between his followers should look like was the relationship between his Father and himself. The unique relationship of the Trinity, where the different attributes of the Father, Son, and Spirit all combine to make one God, is the perfect picture of unity. For humanity, this kind of supernatural bond isn't possible. The principle behind this example, however, is that people can work together as equals toward a common purpose while they retain their individuality.

To work together, God's followers have to actually spend time together. As you choose to spend time with other people who believe in God, consider Jesus's prayer for you. Ask God for help in doing what you can to draw people together. Choose to build others up, instead of gossiping about their weaknesses. Search for common bonds, instead of arguing over petty differences. Strengthen your love by serving and readily forgiving.

The unity you have within your church may be the most powerful sermon those outside your church will ever hear. I feel this strong bond with my church family at Selah.

Selah people' and friends the book of Acts gives numerous examples of how Jesus's followers worked together after Jesus's resurrection, freely sharing their resources and their lives. Read Acts 2:26-47 for a glimpse of this unity in action.

"May unity abound not just in your church but in your daily life, with your family and friends and most importantly between you and God."

Your pastor,

Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)