Spiritual Checkup #2

How obvious is my faith in Jesus to those who know me best?

What percentage of my life does Jesus have complete control over?

What evidence can I provide that would show that I'm a disciple of Jesus?

Does my faith have children?

Are you secure in your salvation?

Mull these over in your heart in the next few days, then get back with God.

Spiritual Checkup

Last week I attended a retreat in Paris, TN hosted by Jerry Jones. While there, Albert Lemmons gave us a "Spiritual Temperature Check". I would like to share some of the questions with you in hopes that it will encourage you to do some serious self inventory. I have added some of my own questions.

1.) If I stopped believing in Jesus today, how would it really effect my life?

2.) How willing am I to do what the Bible tells me to do?

3.) How willing am I to sacrifice for others?

4.) Is Christianity something I do or is it something I am?

5.) How willing I am to deny myself to serve God and others?

6.) How intentional/regular am I in my study of God's word?

7.) How long as it been since I've intentionally invited/studied/witnessed to someone that I know does not know Jesus as their Savior?

8.) I often do I pray?

9.) I tithe a certain amount not matter what

10) What is my attitude toward my sin?

11) I consider the needs of others before my own needs

there are more questions. We'll share some more later. This should be enough to get you started.

Perhaps you've already thought of a question or two? I would love to hear your questions!

Re-launching the blog!

Haven't posted in a long time! One of my goals for the new year is to relaunch the blog.

One of my passions is reading! I read all kinds of books. Novels, history, historical fiction, ministry related - I love a good book.

So, we re-launch with an emphasis on book reviews.

If you've read a good book, pass it on! I'm always up for a good recommendation. I find the best books are ones that friends have recommended.

I hope to become a good friend that recommends books that you will enjoy!
Randy

A new favorite book

I have a new favorite book - "Contrarian's Guide To Knowing God" by Larry Osborne. On the books back cover it says, "Contrarian thinking at its best simply asks, Is this really true? It speaks up when the politically correct answer or conventional wisdom doesn't match reality - when things simply don't work the way everyone says it should." I was drawn to that description.

A few years ago I had read "The Contrarian's Guide to Leadership" by Simple. This is a much better book.

Some of my favorite chapters were "Jesus or John?" "The Dimmer Switch Principle" "The High Place Principle" and "The Mustard Seed Principle".

Do yourself a huge favor - put Osborne's book on your reading list. You won't agree with everything - but you will be challenged. Isn't that the mark of a great book?

Forever Strong

If you like sports movies like I do, do yourself a huge favor and rent "Forever Strong". It's based on the Highland High Ruby team here in Salt Lake City. Their record is something like 361-9. Yes, that's not a mistake -- 361-9!

Highland High dominates high school ruby. Here's a great quote from their coach Larry Gelwix:

"It's not about ruby, it's about young men. It's not about building a championship team, it's about building championship boys. Boys who will be forever strong."

A good father-son movie for sure!

This N' That

Haven't blogged in a while. I have reached my second weight goal! Weighed in at 163 a few days ago! Walking between 12,000 - 18,000 steps a day. I can now get in my 34 waist pants! I feel really good. Now, I want to get down to 160, maybe 158? We'll see.

Getting geared up for a trip to the Holy Land. I've never flown overseas in my life! Not looking forward to 14 hours in a metal tube at 35,000 feet. This trip would be on my "bucket list" if I had such a list. Do you have such a list?

I was surprised to learn that Creedence Clearwater Revival only recorded for four years. Man, they recorded a lot great music in just four years! Some great tunes, for sure. Anyone else make such an impact in just four years?

Got a box out of my closet at the church. Found some old Marvin Phillips sermons on cassette tapes. Been listening to them in my car. (yes, my '96 Camry has a cassette player). I love to hear him preach. What a great spirit! So positive. So encouraging! Good stuff.

Who is the speaker that lifts your spirit? Now with the avenues like web sites, pod-casting, - you can hear any speaker you want! Got any favorites?

Fat Preachers?

Why is that a lot of preachers are the most out of shape people in the church? Every time I go to an event where a lot of preachers gather I've noticed that a lot of preachers are over weight. Especially the ones over fifty.

I have determined not to be one of them. Don't know if I'll be successful. I turned 51 this year. A little over weight, I have set a goal to get back down to 165 and a loose 34 waist. When we get there I'll evaluate things and see I need to loose more. Right now, I've lost 9 pounds to weigh 170.5! My first goal is 170. Almost there!

No diet. Cutting out fried foods (which I love!), deserts, smaller portions and walking 8-10,000 steps a day. Once a week I have a meal where I don't worry about things. Gotta have a hamburger once in a while, right?

Paul said that he buffeted his body every day. Yes -- it is a daily struggle for me. Every meal is a battle! I love to eat. Period!

I'll let you know when I get to the second goal.