http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/searchEverything.kickAction?as=5926&mediaType=blog&sortType=recent All new blogs on Acquire the Fire Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:03:44 GMT Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:03:44 GMT acquirethefire@teenmania.com (atf2007) acquirethefire@teenmania.com (atf2007) KickApps Feed Builder 2008-06-04T13:03:44Z 540 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/searchEverything.kickAction?as=5926&sortType=recent 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Like-Everyone-Around-Me/BLOG/63849/5926.html I ask my mom and dad for money they don't really have to buy me clothes and shoes to impress everyone around me . I spend an hour each day painting my face and smooothing my hair to look like everyone around me . My Bible rests on my nightstand- no time to read or pray, but I have time to watch the shows and bop to the music of everyone around me . I went to the mailbox today in the pile was a magazine with pictures of everything I want and another one from a ministry with pictures of childrenb who have no shoes. They wear tattered clothes and rejoice for a bowl of rice, but their smiles glowed with a beauty unlike everyone around me . It struck me: I don't rejoice, I want. I am anxious, discontent, jealous, and insecure. I let the Holy Spirit speak to me, "Be like me: Be like me," And suddenly I didn't want to be Like eveyone around me . I want to be like him. I ask my mom and dad for money they don't really have to buy me clothes and shoes to impress everyone around me . I spend an hour each day painting my face and smooothing my hair to look like everyone around me . My Bible rests on my nightstand- no time to read or pray, but I have time to watch the shows and bop to the music of everyone around me . I went to the mailbox today in the pile was a magazine with pictures of everything I want and another one from a ministry with pictures of childrenb who have no shoes. They wear tattered clothes and rejoice for a bowl of rice, but their smiles glowed with a beauty unlike everyone around me . It struck me: I don't rejoice, I want. I am anxious, discontent, jealous, and insecure. I let the Holy Spirit speak to me, "Be like me: Be like me," And suddenly I didn't want to be Like eveyone around me . I want to be like him. Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:03:44 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Like-Everyone-Around-Me/BLOG/63849/5926.html chasinghim4ever 2008-06-04T13:03:44Z Acquire the Fire I ask my mom and dad for money they don't really have to buy me clothes and shoes to impress everyone around me . I spend an hour each day painting my face and smooothing my hair to look like everyone around me . My Bible rests on my nightstand- no time to read or pray, but I have time to watch the shows and bop to the music of everyone around me . I went to the mailbox today in the pile was a magazine with pictures of everything I want and another one from a ministry with pictures of childrenb who have no shoes. They wear tattered clothes and rejoice for a bowl of rice, but their smiles glowed with a beauty unlike everyone around me . It struck me: I don't rejoice, I want. I am anxious, discontent, jealous, and insecure. I let the Holy Spirit speak to me, "Be like me: Be like me," And suddenly I didn't want to be Like eveyone around me . I want to be like him. around, everyone, like, me nonadult false Like Everyone Around Me text blog around,everyone,like,me 953 2 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2324889&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1747535_5926_2324889_ap_160X120.jpg false 8 3 63849 2324889 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_DO-YOU-KNOW-HOW-I-FEEL/BLOG/63477/5926.html Well... i've been running this race for 6 months now, can't believe i've made it this far... i'm surprised in myself, it seems like yesterday when i was busy battling myself on whether i was ready to give the world up for our awesome Creator... here i am again... what can i say? i'm dragging my feet, almost crawling... Loving Him gets tough sometimes. He's so close yet so far away. Sometimes i can literally feel His love in my heart, the next i'm asking Him where He is or if He can even hear me Trust me, this is where i wanna be... this is where i need to be. Even when i've fallen there's something in me that won't let Him go. I guess the thing is this relationship needs my devotion and commitment. At times i feel like going down on my knees and saying, "God, I can't. I'm in over my head with You. You're too great for me and i feel like i'm not worth it so why should i even try? I keep making the same mistakes over and over, i feel like i'm at the same place You found me. I have nothing to offer. I'm so close to giving up. I'm so close to letting go" I've come too far to turn back now. I've given Him my heart and i don't want it back, i want Him to fix and repair it; i don't want Him to do alot with it, just touching it is enough for me. I know He's here... somewhere, He's here. Do you know how I feel? Well... i've been running this race for 6 months now, can't believe i've made it this far... i'm surprised in myself, it seems like yesterday when i was busy battling myself on whether i was ready to give the world up for our awesome Creator... here i am again... what can i say? i'm dragging my feet, almost crawling... Loving Him gets tough sometimes. He's so close yet so far away. Sometimes i can literally feel His love in my heart, the next i'm asking Him where He is or if He can even hear me Trust me, this is where i wanna be... this is where i need to be. Even when i've fallen there's something in me that won't let Him go. I guess the thing is this relationship needs my devotion and commitment. At times i feel like going down on my knees and saying, "God, I can't. I'm in over my head with You. You're too great for me and i feel like i'm not worth it so why should i even try? I keep making the same mistakes over and over, i feel like i'm at the same place You found me. I have nothing to offer. I'm so close to giving up. I'm so close to letting go" I've come too far to turn back now. I've given Him my heart and i don't want it back, i want Him to fix and repair it; i don't want Him to do alot with it, just touching it is enough for me. I know He's here... somewhere, He's here. Do you know how I feel? Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:08:21 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_DO-YOU-KNOW-HOW-I-FEEL/BLOG/63477/5926.html upgraded 2008-06-03T14:08:21Z Acquire the Fire Well... i've been running this race for 6 months now, can't believe i've made it this far... i'm surprised in myself, it seems like yesterday when i was busy battling myself on whether i was ready to give the world up for our awesome Creator... here i am again... what can i say? i'm dragging my feet, almost crawling... Loving Him gets tough sometimes. He's so close yet so far away. Sometimes i can literally feel His love in my heart, the next i'm asking Him where He is or if He can even hear me Trust me, this is where i wanna be... this is where i need to be. Even when i've fallen there's something in me that won't let Him go. I guess the thing is this relationship needs my devotion and commitment. At times i feel like going down on my knees and saying, "God, I can't. I'm in over my head with You. You're too great for me and i feel like i'm not worth it so why should i even try? I keep making the same mistakes over and over, i feel like i'm at the same place You found me. I have nothing to offer. I'm so close to giving up. I'm so close to letting go" I've come too far to turn back now. I've given Him my heart and i don't want it back, i want Him to fix and repair it; i don't want Him to do alot with it, just touching it is enough for me. I know He's here... somewhere, He's here. Do you know how I feel? nonadult false DO YOU KNOW HOW I FEEL? text blog 1098 2 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2042279&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1314699_5926_2042279_ap_160X120.jpg false 8 1 63477 2042279 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Truth/BLOG/63039/5926.html That what I'm talking about. Seems like most people here always say thank God and Praise Jesues. But I swear they don't know what they're talking about cause only a few minutes later they're back to drinking and smoking and watching porn. When you tell God You're turning away from something that means for good that you are never coming back ot it. That what I'm talking about. Seems like most people here always say thank God and Praise Jesues. But I swear they don't know what they're talking about cause only a few minutes later they're back to drinking and smoking and watching porn. When you tell God You're turning away from something that means for good that you are never coming back ot it. Mon, 02 Jun 2008 04:53:11 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Truth/BLOG/63039/5926.html cortana 2008-06-02T04:53:11Z Acquire the Fire That what I'm talking about. Seems like most people here always say thank God and Praise Jesues. But I swear they don't know what they're talking about cause only a few minutes later they're back to drinking and smoking and watching porn. When you tell God You're turning away from something that means for good that you are never coming back ot it. nonadult false Truth text blog 604 1 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2653124&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_2157839_5926_2653124_ap_160X120.jpg false 2 0 63039 2653124 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_A-Poem-for-You-3/BLOG/63038/5926.html There’s a place in your heart, When your blind and can not see. You cant find in your heart, words to set you free. But when your down And feeling so sad, And you need the strength to carry on. You might get lonely sometimes. But there’s only one to call on. He can help you through anything. He’s there for you no matter what. No matter where you are Or what time it is, he is there. He is the one who gives you breath . The one who loves you most. The reason we go on living. If he weren’t here There’d be no tomorrow. He is night and day. He is death and life, Laughter and sorrow, he is all things He is God. By: Autumn Willhite There’s a place in your heart, When your blind and can not see. You cant find in your heart, words to set you free. But when your down And feeling so sad, And you need the strength to carry on. You might get lonely sometimes. But there’s only one to call on. He can help you through anything. He’s there for you no matter what. No matter where you are Or what time it is, he is there. He is the one who gives you breath . The one who loves you most. The reason we go on living. If he weren’t here There’d be no tomorrow. He is night and day. He is death and life, Laughter and sorrow, he is all things He is God. By: Autumn Willhite Mon, 02 Jun 2008 03:32:31 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_A-Poem-for-You-3/BLOG/63038/5926.html Autumn 2008-06-02T03:32:31Z Acquire the Fire There’s a place in your heart, When your blind and can not see. You cant find in your heart, words to set you free. But when your down And feeling so sad, And you need the strength to carry on. You might get lonely sometimes. But there’s only one to call on. He can help you through anything. He’s there for you no matter what. No matter where you are Or what time it is, he is there. He is the one who gives you breath . The one who loves you most. The reason we go on living. If he weren’t here There’d be no tomorrow. He is night and day. He is death and life, Laughter and sorrow, he is all things He is God. By: Autumn Willhite nonadult false A Poem for You #3 text blog 716 3 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2062409&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1300711_5926_2062409_ap_160X120.jpg false 2 0 63038 2062409 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Friend-of-a-Friend/BLOG/63032/5926.html I can't say I ever was shoting up I've also had a friend die but not on Gods terms. I was only a few minutes late but what does that matter Its only 2 minutes late how how could that hurt anyone I walk down the street and everyones there No one talks and just stares Then somenoe says he hung minself corey hung himself No it can't be true but there he is on the streatcher bright as day. And to this day I wonder about those 2 minutes If only I waas there on time who could I have saved I can't say I ever was shoting up I've also had a friend die but not on Gods terms. I was only a few minutes late but what does that matter Its only 2 minutes late how how could that hurt anyone I walk down the street and everyones there No one talks and just stares Then somenoe says he hung minself corey hung himself No it can't be true but there he is on the streatcher bright as day. And to this day I wonder about those 2 minutes If only I waas there on time who could I have saved Mon, 02 Jun 2008 03:10:01 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Friend-of-a-Friend/BLOG/63032/5926.html cortana 2008-06-02T03:10:01Z Acquire the Fire I can't say I ever was shoting up I've also had a friend die but not on Gods terms. I was only a few minutes late but what does that matter Its only 2 minutes late how how could that hurt anyone I walk down the street and everyones there No one talks and just stares Then somenoe says he hung minself corey hung himself No it can't be true but there he is on the streatcher bright as day. And to this day I wonder about those 2 minutes If only I waas there on time who could I have saved nonadult false Friend of a Friend text blog 767 1 2.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2653124&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_2157839_5926_2653124_ap_160X120.jpg false 3 0 63032 2653124 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Our-Battle/BLOG/62966/5926.html We see this world crumbling, changing befor our eyes, and so sinfull. So many of us what to change it but very little has happened. Are some of us just afraid to put our foot through the dore? Do we think it's to big of a job to change world? Are we afraid? What is holding us back? Many people don't know that just in our American country.... -1 in every 4 teens use drugs that are ilegal. - 8,000 contract an STD every day. That's 6 in the next minute. -1 million teenage girls are pregnant right now in America. -340,000 teens get an abotion every year. -1 in 10 have been raped. -40% have infliced self injury. -1 in 5 have contemplated suicide. -Over 1,500 teens kill themselves every year. -Suicide is the third leading cause of death amoung people ages 15-24 in America. -9 out of 10 have seen porn online. -7 out 10 men are addicted to porn. -The porn industry is bigger than NFL, NHL, NBA, and the NBL combined. - you will see 14,00 sexual references on TV this year. See what our world has come to. See what our generation has become and what they are doing. These are our friends, our family, and people we see and asosate with every day. We don't have to settle for this. We don't have to sit back and watch this get worse. Our world has become a sinful and horrible place.... In 1940 teachers were asked to identify problems in schools, talking out of turn, chewing gum, making noise.... In 1990 teachers were asked the same qestions. These were their ansewers, drugs and alcohal abuse, pregnacy, suicide, rape, robbery, assault.. That was 1990. It's now 18 years later. See what our world has become. We still have a chance to save our generation. Therefore, since we are surrounded buy such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that is so easile entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1) Join me inthe battle to fight for our generation. God has a big plan for us. Let him use you. If you are afraid....... "Each of us may be sure that if God sends us over rocky paths, He will provide us with sturdy shoes. He will never send us on any journey with out equipping us well. (Alexander Maclaren) If we band together we can change the world, it would also be easier than trying to change the world just by our self. What are we waiting for? This is part of a speech I did at my school. I used all the facts and stuff... but unfortuneatly I had to take out the God stuff. But I made my point and made it clear I was a Christian to my class mates with out even saying God one time. After my speech people came and asked me questions about it and I totaly gave God all the credit. My poster got hung up in the speech room for every one to see and a month later my speech got published in the school news paper. PRAIS GOD!!! What are we waiting for? Raise your voice and and band together! We can do it! We see this world crumbling, changing befor our eyes, and so sinfull. So many of us what to change it but very little has happened. Are some of us just afraid to put our foot through the dore? Do we think it's to big of a job to change world? Are we afraid? What is holding us back? Many people don't know that just in our American country.... -1 in every 4 teens use drugs that are ilegal. - 8,000 contract an STD every day. That's 6 in the next minute. -1 million teenage girls are pregnant right now in America. -340,000 teens get an abotion every year. -1 in 10 have been raped. -40% have infliced self injury. -1 in 5 have contemplated suicide. -Over 1,500 teens kill themselves every year. -Suicide is the third leading cause of death amoung people ages 15-24 in America. -9 out of 10 have seen porn online. -7 out 10 men are addicted to porn. -The porn industry is bigger than NFL, NHL, NBA, and the NBL combined. - you will see 14,00 sexual references on TV this year. See what our world has come to. See what our generation has become and what they are doing. These are our friends, our family, and people we see and asosate with every day. We don't have to settle for this. We don't have to sit back and watch this get worse. Our world has become a sinful and horrible place.... In 1940 teachers were asked to identify problems in schools, talking out of turn, chewing gum, making noise.... In 1990 teachers were asked the same qestions. These were their ansewers, drugs and alcohal abuse, pregnacy, suicide, rape, robbery, assault.. That was 1990. It's now 18 years later. See what our world has become. We still have a chance to save our generation. Therefore, since we are surrounded buy such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that is so easile entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1) Join me inthe battle to fight for our generation. God has a big plan for us. Let him use you. If you are afraid....... "Each of us may be sure that if God sends us over rocky paths, He will provide us with sturdy shoes. He will never send us on any journey with out equipping us well. (Alexander Maclaren) If we band together we can change the world, it would also be easier than trying to change the world just by our self. What are we waiting for? This is part of a speech I did at my school. I used all the facts and stuff... but unfortuneatly I had to take out the God stuff. But I made my point and made it clear I was a Christian to my class mates with out even saying God one time. After my speech people came and asked me questions about it and I totaly gave God all the credit. My poster got hung up in the speech room for every one to see and a month later my speech got published in the school news paper. PRAIS GOD!!! What are we waiting for? Raise your voice and and band together! We can do it! Sun, 01 Jun 2008 20:53:42 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Our-Battle/BLOG/62966/5926.html Rockin4him84 2008-06-01T20:53:42Z Acquire the Fire We see this world crumbling, changing befor our eyes, and so sinfull. So many of us what to change it but very little has happened. Are some of us just afraid to put our foot through the dore? Do we think it's to big of a job to change world? Are we afraid? What is holding us back? Many people don't know that just in our American country.... -1 in every 4 teens use drugs that are ilegal. - 8,000 contract an STD every day. That's 6 in the next minute. -1 million teenage girls are pregnant right now in America. -340,000 teens get an abotion every year. -1 in 10 have been raped. -40% have infliced self injury. -1 in 5 have contemplated suicide. -Over 1,500 teens kill themselves every year. -Suicide is the third leading cause of death amoung people ages 15-24 in America. -9 out of 10 have seen porn online. -7 out 10 men are addicted to porn. -The porn industry is bigger than NFL, NHL, NBA, and the NBL combined. - you will see 14,00 sexual references on TV this year. See what our world has come to. See what our generation has become and what they are doing. These are our friends, our family, and people we see and asosate with every day. We don't have to settle for this. We don't have to sit back and watch this get worse. Our world has become a sinful and horrible place.... In 1940 teachers were asked to identify problems in schools, talking out of turn, chewing gum, making noise.... In 1990 teachers were asked the same qestions. These were their ansewers, drugs and alcohal abuse, pregnacy, suicide, rape, robbery, assault.. That was 1990. It's now 18 years later. See what our world has become. We still have a chance to save our generation. Therefore, since we are surrounded buy such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that is so easile entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1) Join me inthe battle to fight for our generation. God has a big plan for us. Let him use you. If you are afraid....... "Each of us may be sure that if God sends us over rocky paths, He will provide us with sturdy shoes. He will never send us on any journey with out equipping us well. (Alexander Maclaren) If we band together we can change the world, it would also be easier than trying to change the world just by our self. What are we waiting for? This is part of a speech I did at my school. I used all the facts and stuff... but unfortuneatly I had to take out the God stuff. But I made my point and made it clear I was a Christian to my class mates with out even saying God one time. After my speech people came and asked me questions about it and I totaly gave God all the credit. My poster got hung up in the speech room for every one to see and a month later my speech got published in the school news paper. PRAIS GOD!!! What are we waiting for? Raise your voice and and band together! We can do it! nonadult false Our Battle text blog 635 1 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=250336&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1355067_5926_250336_ap_160X120.jpg false 3 0 62966 250336 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_tijuana-mexico/BLOG/62457/5926.html im going to tijuana mexico this summer & i need to raise money: ASAP. I'm so ready to go somewhere other than my hometown & help out & tell the world of CHRIST!! Lord, i pray that you prepare me for it and help me to start now!! if anyone wants to help me, it would be SUCH a blessing. if you want to donate anything, email me at shortishaw@hotmail.com xoxoxo!! thank you jesus bless YOU!! -kels :] im going to tijuana mexico this summer & i need to raise money: ASAP. I'm so ready to go somewhere other than my hometown & help out & tell the world of CHRIST!! Lord, i pray that you prepare me for it and help me to start now!! if anyone wants to help me, it would be SUCH a blessing. if you want to donate anything, email me at shortishaw@hotmail.com xoxoxo!! thank you jesus bless YOU!! -kels :] Fri, 30 May 2008 16:37:56 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_tijuana-mexico/BLOG/62457/5926.html kelseymaeshaw 2008-05-30T16:37:56Z Acquire the Fire im going to tijuana mexico this summer & i need to raise money: ASAP. I'm so ready to go somewhere other than my hometown & help out & tell the world of CHRIST!! Lord, i pray that you prepare me for it and help me to start now!! if anyone wants to help me, it would be SUCH a blessing. if you want to donate anything, email me at shortishaw@hotmail.com xoxoxo!! thank you jesus bless YOU!! -kels :] nonadult false tijuana, mexico!! text blog 510 1 1.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2415875&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/users/kelseymaeshaw_5926_portrait160X120.jpg false 1 0 62457 2415875 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_The-Way/BLOG/62214/5926.html God's way is the best way. It's the only way really. God's way is the best way. It's the only way really. Thu, 29 May 2008 18:54:09 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_The-Way/BLOG/62214/5926.html Caitym 2008-05-29T18:54:09Z Acquire the Fire God's way is the best way. It's the only way really. nonadult false The Way text blog 523 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2295444&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1205346_5926_2295444_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 62214 2295444 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Speaking-of-Labels/BLOG/62025/5926.html If there is one thing that bothers me about my faith, is the absolutely horrible label that it is given. As i have said, i am catholic. maybe i just haven't been getting around, but it seems that to a lot of people who aren't catholic, catholicism is a joke! i have had countless discussions with my non-catholic friends about my religion, and they think that all catholics are sluts and druggies. i honestly don't understand it! and when we are not talking about the catholic people we are talking about the actual religion itself. and supposedly there are all these stereotypes about what we do and why we do them... im constantly trying to explain my religion, and defend myself at the same time. If there is one thing that bothers me about my faith, is the absolutely horrible label that it is given. As i have said, i am catholic. maybe i just haven't been getting around, but it seems that to a lot of people who aren't catholic, catholicism is a joke! i have had countless discussions with my non-catholic friends about my religion, and they think that all catholics are sluts and druggies. i honestly don't understand it! and when we are not talking about the catholic people we are talking about the actual religion itself. and supposedly there are all these stereotypes about what we do and why we do them... im constantly trying to explain my religion, and defend myself at the same time. Thu, 29 May 2008 01:34:28 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Speaking-of-Labels/BLOG/62025/5926.html lilmissfaithful 2008-05-29T01:34:28Z Acquire the Fire If there is one thing that bothers me about my faith, is the absolutely horrible label that it is given. As i have said, i am catholic. maybe i just haven't been getting around, but it seems that to a lot of people who aren't catholic, catholicism is a joke! i have had countless discussions with my non-catholic friends about my religion, and they think that all catholics are sluts and druggies. i honestly don't understand it! and when we are not talking about the catholic people we are talking about the actual religion itself. and supposedly there are all these stereotypes about what we do and why we do them... im constantly trying to explain my religion, and defend myself at the same time. nonadult false Speaking of Labels... text blog 471 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2633536&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1326122_5926_2633536_ap_160X120.jpg false 1 0 62025 2633536 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_We-arent-soup-cans/BLOG/62019/5926.html labels... we all know them, we all live with them ,we all make them. Labels themselves are not ment to be mean, and can be harmless. Labels are simply a persons first impression, and though it would be ideal for everybody to not label people on first impression, let's be realistic here. But the fact of the matter is that once we let lables control our lives, then they go beyond a simple first impression. We are all overcome by labels, and many of them may actually fit us nicely, but some may not. We can't let labels limit what we think we can do, we do that enough on our own. A "popular girl" can get good grades, a "jock" can read a book, and a "nice girl" can stand up for herself. Now dont think im lecturing, i let labels control me too, as much as i don't like it. i sometimes try so hard to fit into what a girl is supposed to act like, that i let a lot of people walk all over me. We all just need to get our priorities straight. The truth of the matter is that what really counts is what God thinks of us. he doesnt care if you were popular or had good grades, its how you treat those around you that really matters. so i think it is time that we all banded together and break the imaginary bubbles that control our lives. we will walk up to that girl who sits all by herself at the lunch table, and give her a smile, pick up a book, and stand up for ourselves. so just to help you get started... *POP!* labels... we all know them, we all live with them ,we all make them. Labels themselves are not ment to be mean, and can be harmless. Labels are simply a persons first impression, and though it would be ideal for everybody to not label people on first impression, let's be realistic here. But the fact of the matter is that once we let lables control our lives, then they go beyond a simple first impression. We are all overcome by labels, and many of them may actually fit us nicely, but some may not. We can't let labels limit what we think we can do, we do that enough on our own. A "popular girl" can get good grades, a "jock" can read a book, and a "nice girl" can stand up for herself. Now dont think im lecturing, i let labels control me too, as much as i don't like it. i sometimes try so hard to fit into what a girl is supposed to act like, that i let a lot of people walk all over me. We all just need to get our priorities straight. The truth of the matter is that what really counts is what God thinks of us. he doesnt care if you were popular or had good grades, its how you treat those around you that really matters. so i think it is time that we all banded together and break the imaginary bubbles that control our lives. we will walk up to that girl who sits all by herself at the lunch table, and give her a smile, pick up a book, and stand up for ourselves. so just to help you get started... *POP!* Thu, 29 May 2008 01:16:06 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_We-arent-soup-cans/BLOG/62019/5926.html lilmissfaithful 2008-05-29T01:16:06Z Acquire the Fire labels... we all know them, we all live with them ,we all make them. Labels themselves are not ment to be mean, and can be harmless. Labels are simply a persons first impression, and though it would be ideal for everybody to not label people on first impression, let's be realistic here. But the fact of the matter is that once we let lables control our lives, then they go beyond a simple first impression. We are all overcome by labels, and many of them may actually fit us nicely, but some may not. We can't let labels limit what we think we can do, we do that enough on our own. A "popular girl" can get good grades, a "jock" can read a book, and a "nice girl" can stand up for herself. Now dont think im lecturing, i let labels control me too, as much as i don't like it. i sometimes try so hard to fit into what a girl is supposed to act like, that i let a lot of people walk all over me. We all just need to get our priorities straight. The truth of the matter is that what really counts is what God thinks of us. he doesnt care if you were popular or had good grades, its how you treat those around you that really matters. so i think it is time that we all banded together and break the imaginary bubbles that control our lives. we will walk up to that girl who sits all by herself at the lunch table, and give her a smile, pick up a book, and stand up for ourselves. so just to help you get started... *POP!* nonadult false We aren't soup cans text blog 522 1 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2633536&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1326122_5926_2633536_ap_160X120.jpg false 1 0 62019 2633536 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Let-Your-Voice-Be-Heard/BLOG/61611/5926.html Why dont people speak up for what they believe in? If you are crazy about God why do you deny him infront of your friends? When this question is asked, many people say "I am afraid of what people are going to say about me and when they will think about me" Who cares what they say or what they think... all that matters is that you are standing up for God and he will reward you for that. Just remember... the rewards you get from your friends here on earth dont stand a chance with the rewards you get from God in Heaven. Be Yourself and dont be afraid to show people how much you love God! He will reward you! Why dont people speak up for what they believe in? If you are crazy about God why do you deny him infront of your friends? When this question is asked, many people say "I am afraid of what people are going to say about me and when they will think about me" Who cares what they say or what they think... all that matters is that you are standing up for God and he will reward you for that. Just remember... the rewards you get from your friends here on earth dont stand a chance with the rewards you get from God in Heaven. Be Yourself and dont be afraid to show people how much you love God! He will reward you! Tue, 27 May 2008 20:07:57 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Let-Your-Voice-Be-Heard/BLOG/61611/5926.html JesusFreak7 2008-05-27T20:07:57Z Acquire the Fire Why dont people speak up for what they believe in? If you are crazy about God why do you deny him infront of your friends? When this question is asked, many people say "I am afraid of what people are going to say about me and when they will think about me" Who cares what they say or what they think... all that matters is that you are standing up for God and he will reward you for that. Just remember... the rewards you get from your friends here on earth dont stand a chance with the rewards you get from God in Heaven. Be Yourself and dont be afraid to show people how much you love God! He will reward you! nonadult false Let Your Voice Be Heard! text blog 513 2 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2618498&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1285332_5926_2618498_ap_160X120.jpg false 4 0 61611 2618498 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_April-Nett/BLOG/61364/5926.html I guess this is where you tell about yourself? I live in R.I., I work at a Christian daycare, I'm getting my teacher's license so I'll be getting payed more {yeah :)}. I've been over seas in Asia, did the Youth With A Mission thing {YWAM} Tyler, TX {Go Cowboys}. Ummmmmm....... lets see. Can't think of anything else really. I hope I did this okay. I guess this is where you tell about yourself? I live in R.I., I work at a Christian daycare, I'm getting my teacher's license so I'll be getting payed more {yeah :)}. I've been over seas in Asia, did the Youth With A Mission thing {YWAM} Tyler, TX {Go Cowboys}. Ummmmmm....... lets see. Can't think of anything else really. I hope I did this okay. Mon, 26 May 2008 21:27:22 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_April-Nett/BLOG/61364/5926.html God's Girl 2008-05-26T21:27:22Z Acquire the Fire I guess this is where you tell about yourself? I live in R.I., I work at a Christian daycare, I'm getting my teacher's license so I'll be getting payed more {yeah :)}. I've been over seas in Asia, did the Youth With A Mission thing {YWAM} Tyler, TX {Go Cowboys}. Ummmmmm....... lets see. Can't think of anything else really. I hope I did this okay. nonadult false April Nett text blog 263 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2618902&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/user/defaultImage_160x120_D.jpg false 0 0 61364 2618902 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_He-is-so-amazing/BLOG/60213/5926.html hey guys......... Ok i am not here to make you get mad at me....... are generation is only going to get smaller if not very many people know about god.... I am here to tell you guys about him and what he can do for us and what we can do for him..... You guys probally will read this and not give a crap about it...... But i really do think you guys will like it....... Ok i went to this thing called ATF (aquire of fire) about 2 years ago and i didn't know very much about god and all this even though my mom made me go to church everyday when i was little......Well last year with my youth group i went to atf and i didn't really believe that much in god....I called myself a christian but i really wasn't one......Well the first night we were there i didn't really know what to do.....Well that night who ever wanted to ask god into there heart they had to go down on the floor so thousands of people can pray for them..... Well one of my friends said i will go with you if you want me too......I was like no maybe tommorow......Well the next day we came back and they asked i was like ok i am going to do it....So i went down there with one of my friends and when we started praying.....I just had tears running down my face.....Then the speaker told us to pray to our selfs......So i asked god into my heart and i told him i always want him there for me and i told him i will always be here if he needs a favor.....So i asked for forgiveness too.....Then just this last year we went back and I took some friends with me and they went down there and did the same thing i did........ Well this last time i was there at atf....I sat there listen and not very many today know about god....And they told us that are generation is going to get smaller if we don't tell people about god....And all this amazing stuff he did and what he did for us.... He died for us and i just think that is so amazing......He took all of are sins that we made and died on the cross......We our so lucky to have someone like that to do that for us...... Everybody sins.....even christians....I am not saying that christians are perfect cuz were not we sin too....I may cuss and i may not do the right things some of the times....But those are my mistakes and i ask for forgiveness...... Well now its your choice to do something.......If you ever need to talk i am here to talk too...... and remember god loves you so much you don't even know..... hey guys......... Ok i am not here to make you get mad at me....... are generation is only going to get smaller if not very many people know about god.... I am here to tell you guys about him and what he can do for us and what we can do for him..... You guys probally will read this and not give a crap about it...... But i really do think you guys will like it....... Ok i went to this thing called ATF (aquire of fire) about 2 years ago and i didn't know very much about god and all this even though my mom made me go to church everyday when i was little......Well last year with my youth group i went to atf and i didn't really believe that much in god....I called myself a christian but i really wasn't one......Well the first night we were there i didn't really know what to do.....Well that night who ever wanted to ask god into there heart they had to go down on the floor so thousands of people can pray for them..... Well one of my friends said i will go with you if you want me too......I was like no maybe tommorow......Well the next day we came back and they asked i was like ok i am going to do it....So i went down there with one of my friends and when we started praying.....I just had tears running down my face.....Then the speaker told us to pray to our selfs......So i asked god into my heart and i told him i always want him there for me and i told him i will always be here if he needs a favor.....So i asked for forgiveness too.....Then just this last year we went back and I took some friends with me and they went down there and did the same thing i did........ Well this last time i was there at atf....I sat there listen and not very many today know about god....And they told us that are generation is going to get smaller if we don't tell people about god....And all this amazing stuff he did and what he did for us.... He died for us and i just think that is so amazing......He took all of are sins that we made and died on the cross......We our so lucky to have someone like that to do that for us...... Everybody sins.....even christians....I am not saying that christians are perfect cuz were not we sin too....I may cuss and i may not do the right things some of the times....But those are my mistakes and i ask for forgiveness...... Well now its your choice to do something.......If you ever need to talk i am here to talk too...... and remember god loves you so much you don't even know..... Thu, 22 May 2008 02:18:24 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_He-is-so-amazing/BLOG/60213/5926.html I_only_live_for_god 2008-05-22T02:18:24Z Acquire the Fire hey guys......... Ok i am not here to make you get mad at me....... are generation is only going to get smaller if not very many people know about god.... I am here to tell you guys about him and what he can do for us and what we can do for him..... You guys probally will read this and not give a crap about it...... But i really do think you guys will like it....... Ok i went to this thing called ATF (aquire of fire) about 2 years ago and i didn't know very much about god and all this even though my mom made me go to church everyday when i was little......Well last year with my youth group i went to atf and i didn't really believe that much in god....I called myself a christian but i really wasn't one......Well the first night we were there i didn't really know what to do.....Well that night who ever wanted to ask god into there heart they had to go down on the floor so thousands of people can pray for them..... Well one of my friends said i will go with you if you want me too......I was like no maybe tommorow......Well the next day we came back and they asked i was like ok i am going to do it....So i went down there with one of my friends and when we started praying.....I just had tears running down my face.....Then the speaker told us to pray to our selfs......So i asked god into my heart and i told him i always want him there for me and i told him i will always be here if he needs a favor.....So i asked for forgiveness too.....Then just this last year we went back and I took some friends with me and they went down there and did the same thing i did........ Well this last time i was there at atf....I sat there listen and not very many today know about god....And they told us that are generation is going to get smaller if we don't tell people about god....And all this amazing stuff he did and what he did for us.... He died for us and i just think that is so amazing......He took all of are sins that we made and died on the cross......We our so lucky to have someone like that to do that for us...... Everybody sins.....even christians....I am not saying that christians are perfect cuz were not we sin too....I may cuss and i may not do the right things some of the times....But those are my mistakes and i ask for forgiveness...... Well now its your choice to do something.......If you ever need to talk i am here to talk too...... and remember god loves you so much you don't even know..... nonadult false He is so amazing text blog 340 2 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2591570&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/users/I_only_live_for_god_5926_portrait160X120.jpg false 3 0 60213 2591570 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Im-Tired/BLOG/59946/5926.html I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing my friend cut herself. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing pregnant teenagers. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing starving children I'm Tired I'm Tired of rapists I'm Tired I'm Tired of not being able to show myself for who I am I'm Tired. I'm Tired of this century not standing up for what they believe in. We could make a difference if we only tried. The century before us has handed us the power to do whatever we want with our future and we have tossed it away carelessly. We're too tired. So have we given up? Or are you ready to help start fighting? Fighting for what we believe in? Fighting for Christ? Are You Fighting? Or are you too tired? I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing my friend cut herself. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing pregnant teenagers. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing starving children I'm Tired I'm Tired of rapists I'm Tired I'm Tired of not being able to show myself for who I am I'm Tired. I'm Tired of this century not standing up for what they believe in. We could make a difference if we only tried. The century before us has handed us the power to do whatever we want with our future and we have tossed it away carelessly. We're too tired. So have we given up? Or are you ready to help start fighting? Fighting for what we believe in? Fighting for Christ? Are You Fighting? Or are you too tired? Wed, 21 May 2008 14:43:17 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Im-Tired/BLOG/59946/5926.html Jubilant3 2008-05-21T14:43:17Z Acquire the Fire I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing my friend cut herself. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing pregnant teenagers. I'm Tired I'm Tired of seeing starving children I'm Tired I'm Tired of rapists I'm Tired I'm Tired of not being able to show myself for who I am I'm Tired. I'm Tired of this century not standing up for what they believe in. We could make a difference if we only tried. The century before us has handed us the power to do whatever we want with our future and we have tossed it away carelessly. We're too tired. So have we given up? Or are you ready to help start fighting? Fighting for what we believe in? Fighting for Christ? Are You Fighting? Or are you too tired? nonadult false I'm Tired text blog 310 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2567748&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/users/Jubilant3_5926_portrait160X120.jpg false 0 0 59946 2567748 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_A-poem-for-you-2/BLOG/59561/5926.html EMOTIONALY TUCK I AM SO EMOTIONALLY DRAINED. MY SOUL IS DEAD, WHY SHOULD THE REST OF MY LIVE ON. I CANT GO ON LIKE THIS. I DONT' SEE ANY GOOD THAT WILL COME FROM ME STAYING HERE ON THIS EARTH. SO WHAT IS THE POINT I AM DEAD INSIDE BUT TIME WILL ONLY TELL WHEN I'LL BE DEAD ON THE OUTSIDE TOO. I PICTURE DYING I SEE PEOPLE JUST GOING ON, LIVING THEIR LIVE . NOT EVEN NOTICING I'M GONE. I HOLD BACK MY TEAR AS I THINK ABOUT HOW WORTHLESS MY LIFE IS, I FEEL AS THOUGH I DON'T MATTER TO ANYONE. SO I DON'T INDERSTAND, WHY I'M STILL LIVING? WHY AM I STILL HERE? WHY AM I STILL IN THIS WORLD FACING MY FEARS. BY: Autumn Willhite EMOTIONALY TUCK I AM SO EMOTIONALLY DRAINED. MY SOUL IS DEAD, WHY SHOULD THE REST OF MY LIVE ON. I CANT GO ON LIKE THIS. I DONT' SEE ANY GOOD THAT WILL COME FROM ME STAYING HERE ON THIS EARTH. SO WHAT IS THE POINT I AM DEAD INSIDE BUT TIME WILL ONLY TELL WHEN I'LL BE DEAD ON THE OUTSIDE TOO. I PICTURE DYING I SEE PEOPLE JUST GOING ON, LIVING THEIR LIVE . NOT EVEN NOTICING I'M GONE. I HOLD BACK MY TEAR AS I THINK ABOUT HOW WORTHLESS MY LIFE IS, I FEEL AS THOUGH I DON'T MATTER TO ANYONE. SO I DON'T INDERSTAND, WHY I'M STILL LIVING? WHY AM I STILL HERE? WHY AM I STILL IN THIS WORLD FACING MY FEARS. BY: Autumn Willhite Tue, 20 May 2008 13:48:13 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_A-poem-for-you-2/BLOG/59561/5926.html Autumn 2008-05-20T13:48:13Z Acquire the Fire EMOTIONALY TUCK I AM SO EMOTIONALLY DRAINED. MY SOUL IS DEAD, WHY SHOULD THE REST OF MY LIVE ON. I CANT GO ON LIKE THIS. I DONT' SEE ANY GOOD THAT WILL COME FROM ME STAYING HERE ON THIS EARTH. SO WHAT IS THE POINT I AM DEAD INSIDE BUT TIME WILL ONLY TELL WHEN I'LL BE DEAD ON THE OUTSIDE TOO. I PICTURE DYING I SEE PEOPLE JUST GOING ON, LIVING THEIR LIVE . NOT EVEN NOTICING I'M GONE. I HOLD BACK MY TEAR AS I THINK ABOUT HOW WORTHLESS MY LIFE IS, I FEEL AS THOUGH I DON'T MATTER TO ANYONE. SO I DON'T INDERSTAND, WHY I'M STILL LIVING? WHY AM I STILL HERE? WHY AM I STILL IN THIS WORLD FACING MY FEARS. BY: Autumn Willhite nonadult false A poem for you #2 text blog 314 2 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2062409&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1300711_5926_2062409_ap_160X120.jpg false 2 0 59561 2062409 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Graduation/BLOG/59242/5926.html wow...the seniors are gone, the 8th graders have 1 day of Jr. High left and then they are freshman....i mean my school is almost dead....we are so poor that we have to close our elementary building and have the elementary kids in the High School....i have 8 kids in my class, we have all been together since kindergarten, we are like family, but a family that leaves people out....i am going to 3 of my bestest CHRISTIAN friends graduations this week and i am sad and excited at the same time....for the ones that go to my school i am so excited....they are going to be in high school, and then i will have someone to hang out with so i don't feel so alone....i am sad because i can't believe that some of these kids are going to be in high school...i mean i am almost 25% done with my high school career....i can't believe it....a couple of monthes ago when i was at my friend Caity's house we found this picture from her birthday party like 11 or 12 years ago...we looked so cute....that is a perfect demonstration of how close we are....we have known each other for forever, but yet it took God's love to bring us where we are today....the love of the Lord is amazing, never under estimate it because when you feel down and feel like you aren't going to accomplish anything, God will come and make an amazing situation of times that make you feel like you aren't even worth dirt...well that's all for now...have an amazing summer everyone...ttyl ~chelsey rae wow...the seniors are gone, the 8th graders have 1 day of Jr. High left and then they are freshman....i mean my school is almost dead....we are so poor that we have to close our elementary building and have the elementary kids in the High School....i have 8 kids in my class, we have all been together since kindergarten, we are like family, but a family that leaves people out....i am going to 3 of my bestest CHRISTIAN friends graduations this week and i am sad and excited at the same time....for the ones that go to my school i am so excited....they are going to be in high school, and then i will have someone to hang out with so i don't feel so alone....i am sad because i can't believe that some of these kids are going to be in high school...i mean i am almost 25% done with my high school career....i can't believe it....a couple of monthes ago when i was at my friend Caity's house we found this picture from her birthday party like 11 or 12 years ago...we looked so cute....that is a perfect demonstration of how close we are....we have known each other for forever, but yet it took God's love to bring us where we are today....the love of the Lord is amazing, never under estimate it because when you feel down and feel like you aren't going to accomplish anything, God will come and make an amazing situation of times that make you feel like you aren't even worth dirt...well that's all for now...have an amazing summer everyone...ttyl ~chelsey rae Mon, 19 May 2008 18:36:06 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Graduation/BLOG/59242/5926.html Jesus_chick_51 2008-05-19T18:36:06Z Acquire the Fire wow...the seniors are gone, the 8th graders have 1 day of Jr. High left and then they are freshman....i mean my school is almost dead....we are so poor that we have to close our elementary building and have the elementary kids in the High School....i have 8 kids in my class, we have all been together since kindergarten, we are like family, but a family that leaves people out....i am going to 3 of my bestest CHRISTIAN friends graduations this week and i am sad and excited at the same time....for the ones that go to my school i am so excited....they are going to be in high school, and then i will have someone to hang out with so i don't feel so alone....i am sad because i can't believe that some of these kids are going to be in high school...i mean i am almost 25% done with my high school career....i can't believe it....a couple of monthes ago when i was at my friend Caity's house we found this picture from her birthday party like 11 or 12 years ago...we looked so cute....that is a perfect demonstration of how close we are....we have known each other for forever, but yet it took God's love to bring us where we are today....the love of the Lord is amazing, never under estimate it because when you feel down and feel like you aren't going to accomplish anything, God will come and make an amazing situation of times that make you feel like you aren't even worth dirt...well that's all for now...have an amazing summer everyone...ttyl ~chelsey rae nonadult false Graduation text blog 276 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2351190&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1262428_5926_2351190_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 59242 2351190 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Thinking-GloballyActing-LOCALLY/BLOG/59207/5926.html When Columbus told us that nothing ever happens in Zanesville, they were right . But that was before . Last weekend (May 9th and 10th), Zanesville had an event that led bands and artists Michael Gungor , Seventh Day Slumber , and Pillar into our little town that NOTHING ever happens in. Also that joined us, were Rick Alonzo and Joel Penton . Rick is an amazing Martial Artist Painter who graciously donated one of his paintings to my Youth Ministry, and sold the other three for only 200 dollars. They were worth about $1,500 . Joel Penton is a former Ohio State Buckeye, and he came to hang out with us on the 10th as well. He spoke to his fans, and even to a Michigan fan lurking in the crowd. My Youth Pastor, Adam King , was the main speaker at this event. He and his wife Jennifer made sure the weekend ran smoothly. On the first night of Battlecry For Zanesville , I got the chance to speak to a young girl who is friends with my younger sister. She had fresh scars all over her arms from where she had recently cut herself, again . She's been in and out of the hospital, and has attempted suicide many times before. This girl got down on her knees after the drama (Lifehouse "Everything") and she gave her heart and her life to God . I got the chance to pray with this amazing and beautiful girl, and she even thanked and hugged me with tears running down her face and mine. That weekend was amazing . It's so insane to believe that our little town can do something like that. The fact that my church was able to get Pillar , Seventh Day Slumber , Michael Gungor , Rick Alonzo , and Joel Penton to come to our little town. Daddy never ceases to amaze me. The next BattleCry for Zanesville is going to be the first weekend in April of 2009. Maybe I'll see you there. :) When Columbus told us that nothing ever happens in Zanesville, they were right . But that was before . Last weekend (May 9th and 10th), Zanesville had an event that led bands and artists Michael Gungor , Seventh Day Slumber , and Pillar into our little town that NOTHING ever happens in. Also that joined us, were Rick Alonzo and Joel Penton . Rick is an amazing Martial Artist Painter who graciously donated one of his paintings to my Youth Ministry, and sold the other three for only 200 dollars. They were worth about $1,500 . Joel Penton is a former Ohio State Buckeye, and he came to hang out with us on the 10th as well. He spoke to his fans, and even to a Michigan fan lurking in the crowd. My Youth Pastor, Adam King , was the main speaker at this event. He and his wife Jennifer made sure the weekend ran smoothly. On the first night of Battlecry For Zanesville , I got the chance to speak to a young girl who is friends with my younger sister. She had fresh scars all over her arms from where she had recently cut herself, again . She's been in and out of the hospital, and has attempted suicide many times before. This girl got down on her knees after the drama (Lifehouse "Everything") and she gave her heart and her life to God . I got the chance to pray with this amazing and beautiful girl, and she even thanked and hugged me with tears running down her face and mine. That weekend was amazing . It's so insane to believe that our little town can do something like that. The fact that my church was able to get Pillar , Seventh Day Slumber , Michael Gungor , Rick Alonzo , and Joel Penton to come to our little town. Daddy never ceases to amaze me. The next BattleCry for Zanesville is going to be the first weekend in April of 2009. Maybe I'll see you there. :) Mon, 19 May 2008 16:44:13 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Thinking-GloballyActing-LOCALLY/BLOG/59207/5926.html kassi_811 2008-05-19T16:44:13Z Acquire the Fire When Columbus told us that nothing ever happens in Zanesville, they were right . But that was before . Last weekend (May 9th and 10th), Zanesville had an event that led bands and artists Michael Gungor , Seventh Day Slumber , and Pillar into our little town that NOTHING ever happens in. Also that joined us, were Rick Alonzo and Joel Penton . Rick is an amazing Martial Artist Painter who graciously donated one of his paintings to my Youth Ministry, and sold the other three for only 200 dollars. They were worth about $1,500 . Joel Penton is a former Ohio State Buckeye, and he came to hang out with us on the 10th as well. He spoke to his fans, and even to a Michigan fan lurking in the crowd. My Youth Pastor, Adam King , was the main speaker at this event. He and his wife Jennifer made sure the weekend ran smoothly. On the first night of Battlecry For Zanesville , I got the chance to speak to a young girl who is friends with my younger sister. She had fresh scars all over her arms from where she had recently cut herself, again . She's been in and out of the hospital, and has attempted suicide many times before. This girl got down on her knees after the drama (Lifehouse "Everything") and she gave her heart and her life to God . I got the chance to pray with this amazing and beautiful girl, and she even thanked and hugged me with tears running down her face and mine. That weekend was amazing . It's so insane to believe that our little town can do something like that. The fact that my church was able to get Pillar , Seventh Day Slumber , Michael Gungor , Rick Alonzo , and Joel Penton to come to our little town. Daddy never ceases to amaze me. The next BattleCry for Zanesville is going to be the first weekend in April of 2009. Maybe I'll see you there. :) atf, battlecry, christ, god, jesus, zanesville nonadult false .Thinking Globally.:.Acting LOCALLY.:. text blog atf,battlecry,christ,god,jesus,zanesville 419 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=1629796&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1197613_5926_1629796_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 59207 1629796 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_shirt-of-hidden-meaning/BLOG/59050/5926.html SO... i just recently was going through a bump in my relationship with god as many of those like me who aren't perfect do... and then i was totally sitting in the pew at church and this womans shirt had me mesmorized... i wasn't really sure why either but i couldn't take my eyes off of it. well this shirt was white and black checkers and with each color i was making crosses in them...subconciously... as this was taking place God spoke to me... and this is what he said " see you say you can't find me and yet i am in everything that surrounds you" how freaking cool is that? that even in my biggest rut God found a simple way of showing me he is still here for me. i also think its his way of reminding me he has a sense of humor too... and that even though things get rough that he is God and he's been doing this a long time and knows what he's doing... i have to trust in him and keep my eyes towards him and he will take care of the rest! -babyluvWWJD SO... i just recently was going through a bump in my relationship with god as many of those like me who aren't perfect do... and then i was totally sitting in the pew at church and this womans shirt had me mesmorized... i wasn't really sure why either but i couldn't take my eyes off of it. well this shirt was white and black checkers and with each color i was making crosses in them...subconciously... as this was taking place God spoke to me... and this is what he said " see you say you can't find me and yet i am in everything that surrounds you" how freaking cool is that? that even in my biggest rut God found a simple way of showing me he is still here for me. i also think its his way of reminding me he has a sense of humor too... and that even though things get rough that he is God and he's been doing this a long time and knows what he's doing... i have to trust in him and keep my eyes towards him and he will take care of the rest! -babyluvWWJD Sun, 18 May 2008 23:23:03 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_shirt-of-hidden-meaning/BLOG/59050/5926.html babyluvWWJD 2008-05-18T23:23:03Z Acquire the Fire SO... i just recently was going through a bump in my relationship with god as many of those like me who aren't perfect do... and then i was totally sitting in the pew at church and this womans shirt had me mesmorized... i wasn't really sure why either but i couldn't take my eyes off of it. well this shirt was white and black checkers and with each color i was making crosses in them...subconciously... as this was taking place God spoke to me... and this is what he said " see you say you can't find me and yet i am in everything that surrounds you" how freaking cool is that? that even in my biggest rut God found a simple way of showing me he is still here for me. i also think its his way of reminding me he has a sense of humor too... and that even though things get rough that he is God and he's been doing this a long time and knows what he's doing... i have to trust in him and keep my eyes towards him and he will take care of the rest! -babyluvWWJD nonadult false shirt of hidden meaning text blog 265 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=1486441&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_881948_5926_1486441_ap_160X120.jpg false 1 0 59050 1486441 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_i-keep-my-friend-believig/BLOG/58389/5926.html Ok so if you don't know the average ages for middle school, i am in middle school. So OFCOURSE there has been some drama, well today was the big blow up, my friend has had some boy confusion. She has seen what she thinks could make her grass greener. What i did was i asked her to name all positives about one boy, (the one that is making he confused) and she listed six. Then i asked her to list some about her current boyfriend. She only listed three. So like all young teens she was passing notes in class to one of our athiest friends (my friend and i are not prejudice but lets just say we don't bring up church alot LOL) Our friend asked wut friend A was going to do, She responded "idk" like all we were all stunned friend A usually the decisive on out of my bunch of friends, so Friend A called me today when i got home. she asked ME because usally i am the advice giver. well i told my friend i wasn't much in relationships but knew the right answer i knew God wold help he make her decision. THis is a petty thing to look to God for. The world needs God's attention more than some relationship confused teen, but for us teensour realtonships ARE the world. She sounded appaled she hadn't though of it first, she thanked me vigorously and said i knew there was some reason i come, well WE come to you for advice I thought this would come in handy for any confused teens i hope t has been helpful Airbear Ok so if you don't know the average ages for middle school, i am in middle school. So OFCOURSE there has been some drama, well today was the big blow up, my friend has had some boy confusion. She has seen what she thinks could make her grass greener. What i did was i asked her to name all positives about one boy, (the one that is making he confused) and she listed six. Then i asked her to list some about her current boyfriend. She only listed three. So like all young teens she was passing notes in class to one of our athiest friends (my friend and i are not prejudice but lets just say we don't bring up church alot LOL) Our friend asked wut friend A was going to do, She responded "idk" like all we were all stunned friend A usually the decisive on out of my bunch of friends, so Friend A called me today when i got home. she asked ME because usally i am the advice giver. well i told my friend i wasn't much in relationships but knew the right answer i knew God wold help he make her decision. THis is a petty thing to look to God for. The world needs God's attention more than some relationship confused teen, but for us teensour realtonships ARE the world. She sounded appaled she hadn't though of it first, she thanked me vigorously and said i knew there was some reason i come, well WE come to you for advice I thought this would come in handy for any confused teens i hope t has been helpful Airbear Thu, 15 May 2008 23:15:19 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_i-keep-my-friend-believig/BLOG/58389/5926.html airbear1305 2008-05-15T23:15:19Z Acquire the Fire Ok so if you don't know the average ages for middle school, i am in middle school. So OFCOURSE there has been some drama, well today was the big blow up, my friend has had some boy confusion. She has seen what she thinks could make her grass greener. What i did was i asked her to name all positives about one boy, (the one that is making he confused) and she listed six. Then i asked her to list some about her current boyfriend. She only listed three. So like all young teens she was passing notes in class to one of our athiest friends (my friend and i are not prejudice but lets just say we don't bring up church alot LOL) Our friend asked wut friend A was going to do, She responded "idk" like all we were all stunned friend A usually the decisive on out of my bunch of friends, so Friend A called me today when i got home. she asked ME because usally i am the advice giver. well i told my friend i wasn't much in relationships but knew the right answer i knew God wold help he make her decision. THis is a petty thing to look to God for. The world needs God's attention more than some relationship confused teen, but for us teensour realtonships ARE the world. She sounded appaled she hadn't though of it first, she thanked me vigorously and said i knew there was some reason i come, well WE come to you for advice I thought this would come in handy for any confused teens i hope t has been helpful Airbear nonadult false i keep my friend believig text blog 243 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2252955&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1203755_5926_2252955_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 58389 2252955 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_hi/BLOG/58258/5926.html hey i dont know bout u but i was so excited about the last atf and cant wait till next year already i really would like to talk to u all more i dont have almost any christian friends here at my school and there isnt a bible study group or anything and it is a lot easier to stay constant with other christian friends so ya talk to u soon hey i dont know bout u but i was so excited about the last atf and cant wait till next year already i really would like to talk to u all more i dont have almost any christian friends here at my school and there isnt a bible study group or anything and it is a lot easier to stay constant with other christian friends so ya talk to u soon Thu, 15 May 2008 16:04:19 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_hi/BLOG/58258/5926.html emilyj2010 2008-05-15T16:04:19Z Acquire the Fire hey i dont know bout u but i was so excited about the last atf and cant wait till next year already i really would like to talk to u all more i dont have almost any christian friends here at my school and there isnt a bible study group or anything and it is a lot easier to stay constant with other christian friends so ya talk to u soon nonadult false hi text blog 255 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2411099&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/user/defaultImage_160x120_E.jpg false 0 0 58258 2411099 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Crossing-Over-the-Battle-Lines/BLOG/58089/5926.html [image] Often times, friends shy away from, “tough love,” because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. Last week, I experienced a real encounter with tough love when one of my closest friends began to challenge me. Over a very long conversation, he moved past and broke down all the barriers I had set up to keep people at bay and not too close to me. The conversation was brutal, but at the same time, I felt so relieved. Even though I wanted to cry and yell and throw a fit, I was grateful for the new freedom I felt. But that was only after 5 hours of being called out for bitterness that I have held, things that I have thought, and lies that I have believed. My friend wouldn’t let me find an escape. I was going to come to terms with things whether I liked it or not. We had taken to the Manassas Battlefields, and there was a striking similarity between the things happening around me and what I felt in my heart as God spoke through this friend of mine. We climbed a hill, crossed the fields, and passed the cannons. The scenery mirrored what I felt inside. Within my heart I fought an uphill battle with myself, traversed a stretch of my own heartbreak, and broke through a wall of canons built to keep myself and others at bay. I began to think about the battle in which we place ourselves when outside of God's will. When we decide to control our own lives, and when we decide to take things into our own hands, we begin to fight on the wrong side. Instead of standing within the grace and covering of God, we reject His plan and chose to take on responsibilities we were never meant to inherit. But as we allow God to walk with us, to teach us, to mold us, and to take us from all that would destroy us into the light and warmth of His plan, we cross over the battle lines. We move out of the cannon range ready to destroy into a life on the offensive. We live free and able to take on whatever comes at us because we are standing on the right side of the line: right where you are meant to be. Dear Jesus, You are so good and holy and worthy. Please break the hardness of our hearts so that we can experience you in a brand new way. We want to see you through un-jaded eyes, clearly, and without a premonition that you won't take care of us. We want to trust you, but it's so hard sometimes, and You know that God. Please teach us trust, and vulnerability. Teach us how to rest in you and how to be real with you and with our friends. Show us true healing, true peace, and true joy. But most of all, God, let us see you glorified. We love you, Amen. [image] Often times, friends shy away from, “tough love,” because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. Last week, I experienced a real encounter with tough love when one of my closest friends began to challenge me. Over a very long conversation, he moved past and broke down all the barriers I had set up to keep people at bay and not too close to me. The conversation was brutal, but at the same time, I felt so relieved. Even though I wanted to cry and yell and throw a fit, I was grateful for the new freedom I felt. But that was only after 5 hours of being called out for bitterness that I have held, things that I have thought, and lies that I have believed. My friend wouldn’t let me find an escape. I was going to come to terms with things whether I liked it or not. We had taken to the Manassas Battlefields, and there was a striking similarity between the things happening around me and what I felt in my heart as God spoke through this friend of mine. We climbed a hill, crossed the fields, and passed the cannons. The scenery mirrored what I felt inside. Within my heart I fought an uphill battle with myself, traversed a stretch of my own heartbreak, and broke through a wall of canons built to keep myself and others at bay. I began to think about the battle in which we place ourselves when outside of God's will. When we decide to control our own lives, and when we decide to take things into our own hands, we begin to fight on the wrong side. Instead of standing within the grace and covering of God, we reject His plan and chose to take on responsibilities we were never meant to inherit. But as we allow God to walk with us, to teach us, to mold us, and to take us from all that would destroy us into the light and warmth of His plan, we cross over the battle lines. We move out of the cannon range ready to destroy into a life on the offensive. We live free and able to take on whatever comes at us because we are standing on the right side of the line: right where you are meant to be. Dear Jesus, You are so good and holy and worthy. Please break the hardness of our hearts so that we can experience you in a brand new way. We want to see you through un-jaded eyes, clearly, and without a premonition that you won't take care of us. We want to trust you, but it's so hard sometimes, and You know that God. Please teach us trust, and vulnerability. Teach us how to rest in you and how to be real with you and with our friends. Show us true healing, true peace, and true joy. But most of all, God, let us see you glorified. We love you, Amen. Wed, 14 May 2008 23:32:35 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Crossing-Over-the-Battle-Lines/BLOG/58089/5926.html evenrockscryout 2008-05-14T23:32:35Z Acquire the Fire [image] Often times, friends shy away from, “tough love,” because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. Last week, I experienced a real encounter with tough love when one of my closest friends began to challenge me. Over a very long conversation, he moved past and broke down all the barriers I had set up to keep people at bay and not too close to me. The conversation was brutal, but at the same time, I felt so relieved. Even though I wanted to cry and yell and throw a fit, I was grateful for the new freedom I felt. But that was only after 5 hours of being called out for bitterness that I have held, things that I have thought, and lies that I have believed. My friend wouldn’t let me find an escape. I was going to come to terms with things whether I liked it or not. We had taken to the Manassas Battlefields, and there was a striking similarity between the things happening around me and what I felt in my heart as God spoke through this friend of mine. We climbed a hill, crossed the fields, and passed the cannons. The scenery mirrored what I felt inside. Within my heart I fought an uphill battle with myself, traversed a stretch of my own heartbreak, and broke through a wall of canons built to keep myself and others at bay. I began to think about the battle in which we place ourselves when outside of God's will. When we decide to control our own lives, and when we decide to take things into our own hands, we begin to fight on the wrong side. Instead of standing within the grace and covering of God, we reject His plan and chose to take on responsibilities we were never meant to inherit. But as we allow God to walk with us, to teach us, to mold us, and to take us from all that would destroy us into the light and warmth of His plan, we cross over the battle lines. We move out of the cannon range ready to destroy into a life on the offensive. We live free and able to take on whatever comes at us because we are standing on the right side of the line: right where you are meant to be. Dear Jesus, You are so good and holy and worthy. Please break the hardness of our hearts so that we can experience you in a brand new way. We want to see you through un-jaded eyes, clearly, and without a premonition that you won't take care of us. We want to trust you, but it's so hard sometimes, and You know that God. Please teach us trust, and vulnerability. Teach us how to rest in you and how to be real with you and with our friends. Show us true healing, true peace, and true joy. But most of all, God, let us see you glorified. We love you, Amen. battle, battle fields, cannons, fields, friendship nonadult false Crossing Over the Battle Lines text blog battle,battle fields,cannons,fields,friendship 337 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=820280&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/users/evenrockscryout_5926_portrait160X120.jpg false 0 0 58089 820280 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_What-makes-someone-a-good-person/BLOG/57549/5926.html As deemed by cultural norms and values we see a "good person" as someone who upholds the law, is nice to others, perhaps donates to charity, has a positive attitude, and (or) says please and thank you after you pass them the Heinz 57. However, as a follower of Christ (note: I'm not a Christian. That word is passed around like the flu in a Kindergarten class. I don't merely just go to church and do the religious stuff. I am a follower of Jesus) I have to completely disagree with the idea that their is such a thing as a good person. When we describe someone as a good person by what standard are we judging them by? Perhaps by ourselves, the law, a person on a pedestal, some ideal, or what have you. Generally when one is describing someone as good it's by our own standard of what "good" is. As per se our own personal ideal of what good is versus evil. Often we base our goodness on what we are not doing versus what others around us are doing. Such as we may say, "Well I know I'm good, atleast I don't steal like my brother." Or, "I'm basically a good person. I don't cheat on tests like my friend Jeff." Therefore, we have solely based goodness on the grounds of what others are doing not on what we are doing. Ok, you say I am good because of what I do. I don't judge myself based on the outward characteristics of others. Maybe, you say, "I'm really a good person after all. I do my taxes correctly, I observe the speed limit most of the time, heck I even tip waitresses." Alright so you do some stuff well. However, goodness isn't based soley on keeping the expected norms and values of a few of societal ideas or beliefs. Goodness is dependent on a complete following of all of societal norms and values. Where am I going with this argument, watch this. Ok, fellow Xangster do you believe yourself to be a good person beyond everything else bad that you do? So you think you're still a basically good person? Answer these questions for me then... 1. Have you ever been angry with someone? 2. Have you ever lusted after someone of the same or opposite sex? 3. Have you ever told a lie, even a little harmless white lie? 4. Have you ever taken the credit for someone elses idea or suggestion and claimed it as your own? Most of ( if not all ) you said yes, yes, yes, and yes to all four questions. Realize something folkerolks, Jesus said if we are angry with our friends, family members, class mates, co workers or anyone and get mad at them and doing anything externally or internally in anger then we have killed them in a spiritual sense. Next, Jesus said that if we even lust after someone in our heart we have committed adultery with them in a spiritual sense. Next, so you've lied, even if you lied once that makes you a liar. Next, if you took anything whether physical or non-physical that didnt belong to you then you are a thief So by your own admission your a murdering, adultering, lying, thief! Thus, are murdering, lying, stealing, adulters good people? Of course not, they're viewed as the scum of the earth by us all. Yet, how can you with the same characteristics look at yourself and still see yourself as a basically good person. Rom 3:10 Rom 3:11 no one who is wise or who worships God. Rom 3:12 All have turned away from God; they have all gone wrong; no one does what is right, not even one. Rom 3:13 Their words are full of deadly deceit; wicked lies roll off their tongues, and dangerous threats, like snake's poison, from their lips; Rom 3:14 their speech is filled with bitter curses. Rom 3:15 They are quick to hurt and kill; Rom 3:16 they leave ruin and destruction wherever they go. Rom 3:17 They have not known the path of peace, Rom 3:18 nor have they learned reverence for God." We are all morally corrupt people who bathed in sin and moral corruption have no chance of standing in the presence of a holy God. Isa 59:2 It is because of your sins that he doesn't hear you. It is your sins that separate you from God when you try to worship him. Yet, some say well I believe that God will still let me into Heaven based on my good deeds I did throughout my life. Problem 1, those good deeds will be well counter balanced by your bad deeds. Problem 2, if you base your Heaven worthiness on good deeds who will your life be judged against? The sinless perfect life of Jesus. Something tells me the scales are in his favor. Problem three arises in Isaiah Isa 64:6 We are unfit to worship you; each of our good deeds is merely a filthy rag . We dry up like leaves; our sins are storm winds sweeping us away. The Hebraic word for filthy is עד ayd which literally means menstrual. Thus, God views our goodness as a bloody, nasty, filthy rag that a woman would have used back in the day for her period. Our only hope for salvation is not and will never be found in anything good we can or will do. It's only found in Jesus. Joh 14:6 Jesus answered him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. Rom 10:9 If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. Rom 10:10 For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved. Mat 7:21 "Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. Mat 7:22 When the Judgment Day comes, many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God's message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!' Mat 7:23 Then I will say to them, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you wicked people!' Hit me up on myspace im, message me or whatever if you wanna talk, or talk to counselors at 1-888-need-him As the Scriptures say: " There is no one who is righteous , As deemed by cultural norms and values we see a "good person" as someone who upholds the law, is nice to others, perhaps donates to charity, has a positive attitude, and (or) says please and thank you after you pass them the Heinz 57. However, as a follower of Christ (note: I'm not a Christian. That word is passed around like the flu in a Kindergarten class. I don't merely just go to church and do the religious stuff. I am a follower of Jesus) I have to completely disagree with the idea that their is such a thing as a good person. When we describe someone as a good person by what standard are we judging them by? Perhaps by ourselves, the law, a person on a pedestal, some ideal, or what have you. Generally when one is describing someone as good it's by our own standard of what "good" is. As per se our own personal ideal of what good is versus evil. Often we base our goodness on what we are not doing versus what others around us are doing. Such as we may say, "Well I know I'm good, atleast I don't steal like my brother." Or, "I'm basically a good person. I don't cheat on tests like my friend Jeff." Therefore, we have solely based goodness on the grounds of what others are doing not on what we are doing. Ok, you say I am good because of what I do. I don't judge myself based on the outward characteristics of others. Maybe, you say, "I'm really a good person after all. I do my taxes correctly, I observe the speed limit most of the time, heck I even tip waitresses." Alright so you do some stuff well. However, goodness isn't based soley on keeping the expected norms and values of a few of societal ideas or beliefs. Goodness is dependent on a complete following of all of societal norms and values. Where am I going with this argument, watch this. Ok, fellow Xangster do you believe yourself to be a good person beyond everything else bad that you do? So you think you're still a basically good person? Answer these questions for me then... 1. Have you ever been angry with someone? 2. Have you ever lusted after someone of the same or opposite sex? 3. Have you ever told a lie, even a little harmless white lie? 4. Have you ever taken the credit for someone elses idea or suggestion and claimed it as your own? Most of ( if not all ) you said yes, yes, yes, and yes to all four questions. Realize something folkerolks, Jesus said if we are angry with our friends, family members, class mates, co workers or anyone and get mad at them and doing anything externally or internally in anger then we have killed them in a spiritual sense. Next, Jesus said that if we even lust after someone in our heart we have committed adultery with them in a spiritual sense. Next, so you've lied, even if you lied once that makes you a liar. Next, if you took anything whether physical or non-physical that didnt belong to you then you are a thief So by your own admission your a murdering, adultering, lying, thief! Thus, are murdering, lying, stealing, adulters good people? Of course not, they're viewed as the scum of the earth by us all. Yet, how can you with the same characteristics look at yourself and still see yourself as a basically good person. Rom 3:10 Rom 3:11 no one who is wise or who worships God. Rom 3:12 All have turned away from God; they have all gone wrong; no one does what is right, not even one. Rom 3:13 Their words are full of deadly deceit; wicked lies roll off their tongues, and dangerous threats, like snake's poison, from their lips; Rom 3:14 their speech is filled with bitter curses. Rom 3:15 They are quick to hurt and kill; Rom 3:16 they leave ruin and destruction wherever they go. Rom 3:17 They have not known the path of peace, Rom 3:18 nor have they learned reverence for God." We are all morally corrupt people who bathed in sin and moral corruption have no chance of standing in the presence of a holy God. Isa 59:2 It is because of your sins that he doesn't hear you. It is your sins that separate you from God when you try to worship him. Yet, some say well I believe that God will still let me into Heaven based on my good deeds I did throughout my life. Problem 1, those good deeds will be well counter balanced by your bad deeds. Problem 2, if you base your Heaven worthiness on good deeds who will your life be judged against? The sinless perfect life of Jesus. Something tells me the scales are in his favor. Problem three arises in Isaiah Isa 64:6 We are unfit to worship you; each of our good deeds is merely a filthy rag . We dry up like leaves; our sins are storm winds sweeping us away. The Hebraic word for filthy is עד ayd which literally means menstrual. Thus, God views our goodness as a bloody, nasty, filthy rag that a woman would have used back in the day for her period. Our only hope for salvation is not and will never be found in anything good we can or will do. It's only found in Jesus. Joh 14:6 Jesus answered him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. Rom 10:9 If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. Rom 10:10 For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved. Mat 7:21 "Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. Mat 7:22 When the Judgment Day comes, many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God's message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!' Mat 7:23 Then I will say to them, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you wicked people!' Hit me up on myspace im, message me or whatever if you wanna talk, or talk to counselors at 1-888-need-him As the Scriptures say: " There is no one who is righteous , Mon, 12 May 2008 23:54:05 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_What-makes-someone-a-good-person/BLOG/57549/5926.html chasinggzus 2008-05-12T23:54:05Z Acquire the Fire As deemed by cultural norms and values we see a "good person" as someone who upholds the law, is nice to others, perhaps donates to charity, has a positive attitude, and (or) says please and thank you after you pass them the Heinz 57. However, as a follower of Christ (note: I'm not a Christian. That word is passed around like the flu in a Kindergarten class. I don't merely just go to church and do the religious stuff. I am a follower of Jesus) I have to completely disagree with the idea that their is such a thing as a good person. When we describe someone as a good person by what standard are we judging them by? Perhaps by ourselves, the law, a person on a pedestal, some ideal, or what have you. Generally when one is describing someone as good it's by our own standard of what "good" is. As per se our own personal ideal of what good is versus evil. Often we base our goodness on what we are not doing versus what others around us are doing. Such as we may say, "Well I know I'm good, atleast I don't steal like my brother." Or, "I'm basically a good person. I don't cheat on tests like my friend Jeff." Therefore, we have solely based goodness on the grounds of what others are doing not on what we are doing. Ok, you say I am good because of what I do. I don't judge myself based on the outward characteristics of others. Maybe, you say, "I'm really a good person after all. I do my taxes correctly, I observe the speed limit most of the time, heck I even tip waitresses." Alright so you do some stuff well. However, goodness isn't based soley on keeping the expected norms and values of a few of societal ideas or beliefs. Goodness is dependent on a complete following of all of societal norms and values. Where am I going with this argument, watch this. Ok, fellow Xangster do you believe yourself to be a good person beyond everything else bad that you do? So you think you're still a basically good person? Answer these questions for me then... 1. Have you ever been angry with someone? 2. Have you ever lusted after someone of the same or opposite sex? 3. Have you ever told a lie, even a little harmless white lie? 4. Have you ever taken the credit for someone elses idea or suggestion and claimed it as your own? Most of ( if not all ) you said yes, yes, yes, and yes to all four questions. Realize something folkerolks, Jesus said if we are angry with our friends, family members, class mates, co workers or anyone and get mad at them and doing anything externally or internally in anger then we have killed them in a spiritual sense. Next, Jesus said that if we even lust after someone in our heart we have committed adultery with them in a spiritual sense. Next, so you've lied, even if you lied once that makes you a liar. Next, if you took anything whether physical or non-physical that didnt belong to you then you are a thief So by your own admission your a murdering, adultering, lying, thief! Thus, are murdering, lying, stealing, adulters good people? Of course not, they're viewed as the scum of the earth by us all. Yet, how can you with the same characteristics look at yourself and still see yourself as a basically good person. Rom 3:10 Rom 3:11 no one who is wise or who worships God. Rom 3:12 All have turned away from God; they have all gone wrong; no one does what is right, not even one. Rom 3:13 Their words are full of deadly deceit; wicked lies roll off their tongues, and dangerous threats, like snake's poison, from their lips; Rom 3:14 their speech is filled with bitter curses. Rom 3:15 They are quick to hurt and kill; Rom 3:16 they leave ruin and destruction wherever they go. Rom 3:17 They have not known the path of peace, Rom 3:18 nor have they learned reverence for God." We are all morally corrupt people who bathed in sin and moral corruption have no chance of standing in the presence of a holy God. Isa 59:2 It is because of your sins that he doesn't hear you. It is your sins that separate you from God when you try to worship him. Yet, some say well I believe that God will still let me into Heaven based on my good deeds I did throughout my life. Problem 1, those good deeds will be well counter balanced by your bad deeds. Problem 2, if you base your Heaven worthiness on good deeds who will your life be judged against? The sinless perfect life of Jesus. Something tells me the scales are in his favor. Problem three arises in Isaiah Isa 64:6 We are unfit to worship you; each of our good deeds is merely a filthy rag . We dry up like leaves; our sins are storm winds sweeping us away. The Hebraic word for filthy is עד ayd which literally means menstrual. Thus, God views our goodness as a bloody, nasty, filthy rag that a woman would have used back in the day for her period. Our only hope for salvation is not and will never be found in anything good we can or will do. It's only found in Jesus. Joh 14:6 Jesus answered him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. Rom 10:9 If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. Rom 10:10 For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved. Mat 7:21 "Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. Mat 7:22 When the Judgment Day comes, many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God's message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!' Mat 7:23 Then I will say to them, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you wicked people!' Hit me up on myspace im, message me or whatever if you wanna talk, or talk to counselors at 1-888-need-him As the Scriptures say: " There is no one who is righteous , nonadult false What makes someone a good person? text blog 265 1 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=1705075&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1117257_5926_1705075_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 57549 1705075 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Atf-San-Diego/BLOG/57502/5926.html So, this weekend my youth group went to atf in San Diego. It was soooo awesome. We were worshiping at the end for like, an hour, and God did amazing things in our youth group. It was so amazing. Like, I can feel something changing. Revival is coming, and its sooo exciting. At the last part of Atf, God visited us in a awesome way. I personally, was touched. I was baptized in the holy spirit!! It was so..fulfilling. I had all kinds of power like I've never felt before, and God did and is doing amazing things for our youth. When it happened we were worshiping and it didn't matter that we didn't get to do all that was planned. It was just all about and for Jesus, as it should be!!! So, this weekend my youth group went to atf in San Diego. It was soooo awesome. We were worshiping at the end for like, an hour, and God did amazing things in our youth group. It was so amazing. Like, I can feel something changing. Revival is coming, and its sooo exciting. At the last part of Atf, God visited us in a awesome way. I personally, was touched. I was baptized in the holy spirit!! It was so..fulfilling. I had all kinds of power like I've never felt before, and God did and is doing amazing things for our youth. When it happened we were worshiping and it didn't matter that we didn't get to do all that was planned. It was just all about and for Jesus, as it should be!!! Mon, 12 May 2008 20:53:23 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Atf-San-Diego/BLOG/57502/5926.html Jewelz_for_Jesus 2008-05-12T20:53:23Z Acquire the Fire So, this weekend my youth group went to atf in San Diego. It was soooo awesome. We were worshiping at the end for like, an hour, and God did amazing things in our youth group. It was so amazing. Like, I can feel something changing. Revival is coming, and its sooo exciting. At the last part of Atf, God visited us in a awesome way. I personally, was touched. I was baptized in the holy spirit!! It was so..fulfilling. I had all kinds of power like I've never felt before, and God did and is doing amazing things for our youth. When it happened we were worshiping and it didn't matter that we didn't get to do all that was planned. It was just all about and for Jesus, as it should be!!! nonadult false Atf San Diego text blog 239 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2394986&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_1226580_5926_2394986_ap_160X120.jpg false 0 0 57502 2394986 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_God-Rose-Bushes-and-Us/BLOG/56992/5926.html Isn't it funny how Christians beg God to break them, beat them down, crush them and humiliate them? I went to a small group a couple of weeks ago and we were talking about prayer. One of the guys there mentioned this and I thought, "Oh yeah, that is kinda wierd." I didn't think much of it, because I understand the logic behind the request. Christians want their own will and their own flesh to be broken so that God can live in and through them. But, the thing is, God doesn't want a broken and bleeding body. He doesn't want children to who flinch when he speaks because they are waiting for the blow from his hand. I was praying the other night and I ran out of words. It was odd- I think I ended up praying in the spirit, but I wasn't speaking in tongues (which is normally what happens). I had the coolest feeling... Anyway, I started asking- "What do I need to pray about? How do I need to pray?" I've felt God withdraw His presence from me. He is now like a soft, invisible wall that I can lean against, but I can't see it or anything. I want Him to be like a blanket, surrounding me completely. A picture of a really pretty rose bush popped into my head. I began to think how a rose bush is carefully tended to grow and bloom to it's fullest potential. It is fed on a regular basis and watered daily. It enjoys the sunshine and has to endure wind and rain. When it starts to get wild or grows in a way that the gardener doesn't like, it gets pruned. Bees come and pollenate the plant, and then you get beautiful, sweet-smelling flowers. I felt that I needed to ask God to tend to me like a gardener would a rose bush. God doesn't want to crush me, he wants to prune me and let me grow. He wants to feed and water me when I need it, and let me soak up his Son. He has to let me endure hardships to strengthen my roots and help me to grow better. He wants to love me and nurture me, not beat me down and dominate me. All this time I have been asking his to force me into obedience so that I could do his will better. Now... Now I think God would rather grow me so that I can do His will. Another way I could put it is with horses. Today, most riders want a horse as a partner, not a robot. Today good trainers slowly teach the horse everything it needs to know in such a way that the horse has little to no stress in the breaking process. The result is a horse who is willing to do what it is asked because (a) it knows what it needs to do and (b) it trusts the trainer. However, all of that time and patience and energy can come crashing down if the rider is what's called heavy handed. If the rider is always jerking on the horse and kicking it's sides and slapping it with a crop, the horse will start to tune the rider out and will no longer have any desire to do what it's asked. A good rider will whisper as quietly as possible before resorting to the shouting methods of kicking, jerking, and slapping. So, why would God treat us like a robot? If even flawed and sinful human beings know what it takes to foster and nurture a caring, loving relationship with people and animals, would not God do even better? How many of us would love someone who was always yelling and screaming at us to 'do this' or 'do that'?? I sure as heck wouldn't! In fact, I would probably at some point turn around and smack that person so hard their would fly around backwards!! (Ok, so not literally... Focus people!! lol) We love God so much because he loves us so much more than we can fathom. Yes, part of love is discipline. I'm not afraid to correct a horse- even going so far as to have it's nose on my knee and making it go in circles as fast as it can. Yes, I have used a crop, not that I like to. Yes, I've used spurs too. God will as well, when need be. But God will always, ALWAYS give us more than just one chance to get things right before he begins to think about correcting us. And he only corrects us as far as we need correcting. If a simple look will do the trick, he'll glance our way, and on from there. But for the most part, all God really wants to do is water us, give us the food we need, let us soak up his Son, and prune us on occasion to bring out the absolute best and most beautiful in us. I think it's time for us to stop asking to be beaten into a heaving, bloody, bruised and degraded piece of met and start asking God to water our roots so that we can grow in His soil and do his bidding with a willing and happy heart. God won't ask a rose to produce a daisy, and he won't ask you to do anything that is not within your power and ability to do. Trust God, because he is worthy and deserving of our trust. Isn't it funny how Christians beg God to break them, beat them down, crush them and humiliate them? I went to a small group a couple of weeks ago and we were talking about prayer. One of the guys there mentioned this and I thought, "Oh yeah, that is kinda wierd." I didn't think much of it, because I understand the logic behind the request. Christians want their own will and their own flesh to be broken so that God can live in and through them. But, the thing is, God doesn't want a broken and bleeding body. He doesn't want children to who flinch when he speaks because they are waiting for the blow from his hand. I was praying the other night and I ran out of words. It was odd- I think I ended up praying in the spirit, but I wasn't speaking in tongues (which is normally what happens). I had the coolest feeling... Anyway, I started asking- "What do I need to pray about? How do I need to pray?" I've felt God withdraw His presence from me. He is now like a soft, invisible wall that I can lean against, but I can't see it or anything. I want Him to be like a blanket, surrounding me completely. A picture of a really pretty rose bush popped into my head. I began to think how a rose bush is carefully tended to grow and bloom to it's fullest potential. It is fed on a regular basis and watered daily. It enjoys the sunshine and has to endure wind and rain. When it starts to get wild or grows in a way that the gardener doesn't like, it gets pruned. Bees come and pollenate the plant, and then you get beautiful, sweet-smelling flowers. I felt that I needed to ask God to tend to me like a gardener would a rose bush. God doesn't want to crush me, he wants to prune me and let me grow. He wants to feed and water me when I need it, and let me soak up his Son. He has to let me endure hardships to strengthen my roots and help me to grow better. He wants to love me and nurture me, not beat me down and dominate me. All this time I have been asking his to force me into obedience so that I could do his will better. Now... Now I think God would rather grow me so that I can do His will. Another way I could put it is with horses. Today, most riders want a horse as a partner, not a robot. Today good trainers slowly teach the horse everything it needs to know in such a way that the horse has little to no stress in the breaking process. The result is a horse who is willing to do what it is asked because (a) it knows what it needs to do and (b) it trusts the trainer. However, all of that time and patience and energy can come crashing down if the rider is what's called heavy handed. If the rider is always jerking on the horse and kicking it's sides and slapping it with a crop, the horse will start to tune the rider out and will no longer have any desire to do what it's asked. A good rider will whisper as quietly as possible before resorting to the shouting methods of kicking, jerking, and slapping. So, why would God treat us like a robot? If even flawed and sinful human beings know what it takes to foster and nurture a caring, loving relationship with people and animals, would not God do even better? How many of us would love someone who was always yelling and screaming at us to 'do this' or 'do that'?? I sure as heck wouldn't! In fact, I would probably at some point turn around and smack that person so hard their would fly around backwards!! (Ok, so not literally... Focus people!! lol) We love God so much because he loves us so much more than we can fathom. Yes, part of love is discipline. I'm not afraid to correct a horse- even going so far as to have it's nose on my knee and making it go in circles as fast as it can. Yes, I have used a crop, not that I like to. Yes, I've used spurs too. God will as well, when need be. But God will always, ALWAYS give us more than just one chance to get things right before he begins to think about correcting us. And he only corrects us as far as we need correcting. If a simple look will do the trick, he'll glance our way, and on from there. But for the most part, all God really wants to do is water us, give us the food we need, let us soak up his Son, and prune us on occasion to bring out the absolute best and most beautiful in us. I think it's time for us to stop asking to be beaten into a heaving, bloody, bruised and degraded piece of met and start asking God to water our roots so that we can grow in His soil and do his bidding with a willing and happy heart. God won't ask a rose to produce a daisy, and he won't ask you to do anything that is not within your power and ability to do. Trust God, because he is worthy and deserving of our trust. Sat, 10 May 2008 02:20:22 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_God-Rose-Bushes-and-Us/BLOG/56992/5926.html Heatheroo 2008-05-10T02:20:22Z Acquire the Fire Isn't it funny how Christians beg God to break them, beat them down, crush them and humiliate them? I went to a small group a couple of weeks ago and we were talking about prayer. One of the guys there mentioned this and I thought, "Oh yeah, that is kinda wierd." I didn't think much of it, because I understand the logic behind the request. Christians want their own will and their own flesh to be broken so that God can live in and through them. But, the thing is, God doesn't want a broken and bleeding body. He doesn't want children to who flinch when he speaks because they are waiting for the blow from his hand. I was praying the other night and I ran out of words. It was odd- I think I ended up praying in the spirit, but I wasn't speaking in tongues (which is normally what happens). I had the coolest feeling... Anyway, I started asking- "What do I need to pray about? How do I need to pray?" I've felt God withdraw His presence from me. He is now like a soft, invisible wall that I can lean against, but I can't see it or anything. I want Him to be like a blanket, surrounding me completely. A picture of a really pretty rose bush popped into my head. I began to think how a rose bush is carefully tended to grow and bloom to it's fullest potential. It is fed on a regular basis and watered daily. It enjoys the sunshine and has to endure wind and rain. When it starts to get wild or grows in a way that the gardener doesn't like, it gets pruned. Bees come and pollenate the plant, and then you get beautiful, sweet-smelling flowers. I felt that I needed to ask God to tend to me like a gardener would a rose bush. God doesn't want to crush me, he wants to prune me and let me grow. He wants to feed and water me when I need it, and let me soak up his Son. He has to let me endure hardships to strengthen my roots and help me to grow better. He wants to love me and nurture me, not beat me down and dominate me. All this time I have been asking his to force me into obedience so that I could do his will better. Now... Now I think God would rather grow me so that I can do His will. Another way I could put it is with horses. Today, most riders want a horse as a partner, not a robot. Today good trainers slowly teach the horse everything it needs to know in such a way that the horse has little to no stress in the breaking process. The result is a horse who is willing to do what it is asked because (a) it knows what it needs to do and (b) it trusts the trainer. However, all of that time and patience and energy can come crashing down if the rider is what's called heavy handed. If the rider is always jerking on the horse and kicking it's sides and slapping it with a crop, the horse will start to tune the rider out and will no longer have any desire to do what it's asked. A good rider will whisper as quietly as possible before resorting to the shouting methods of kicking, jerking, and slapping. So, why would God treat us like a robot? If even flawed and sinful human beings know what it takes to foster and nurture a caring, loving relationship with people and animals, would not God do even better? How many of us would love someone who was always yelling and screaming at us to 'do this' or 'do that'?? I sure as heck wouldn't! In fact, I would probably at some point turn around and smack that person so hard their would fly around backwards!! (Ok, so not literally... Focus people!! lol) We love God so much because he loves us so much more than we can fathom. Yes, part of love is discipline. I'm not afraid to correct a horse- even going so far as to have it's nose on my knee and making it go in circles as fast as it can. Yes, I have used a crop, not that I like to. Yes, I've used spurs too. God will as well, when need be. But God will always, ALWAYS give us more than just one chance to get things right before he begins to think about correcting us. And he only corrects us as far as we need correcting. If a simple look will do the trick, he'll glance our way, and on from there. But for the most part, all God really wants to do is water us, give us the food we need, let us soak up his Son, and prune us on occasion to bring out the absolute best and most beautiful in us. I think it's time for us to stop asking to be beaten into a heaving, bloody, bruised and degraded piece of met and start asking God to water our roots so that we can grow in His soil and do his bidding with a willing and happy heart. God won't ask a rose to produce a daisy, and he won't ask you to do anything that is not within your power and ability to do. Trust God, because he is worthy and deserving of our trust. faith, god, love, prayer nonadult false God, Rose Bushes and Us text blog faith,god,love,prayer 336 1 5.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=1787530&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/photos/PHOTO_797482_5926_1787530_ap_160X120.jpg false 2 0 56992 1787530 Member 0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Life/BLOG/56838/5926.html I just got back from ATF in tacoma, wa. And oh man, God is so good. He wants to do so much. We have to fight for it guys! Our generation is falling & i can no longer be a part of it and just watch. Im ready to do something! Lets go! I just got back from ATF in tacoma, wa. And oh man, God is so good. He wants to do so much. We have to fight for it guys! Our generation is falling & i can no longer be a part of it and just watch. Im ready to do something! Lets go! Fri, 09 May 2008 15:24:11 GMT http://community.acquirethefire.com/_Life/BLOG/56838/5926.html kelseymaeshaw 2008-05-09T15:24:11Z Acquire the Fire I just got back from ATF in tacoma, wa. And oh man, God is so good. He wants to do so much. We have to fight for it guys! Our generation is falling & i can no longer be a part of it and just watch. Im ready to do something! Lets go! nonadult false Life. text blog 250 0 0.0 http://community.acquirethefire.com/service/displayKickPlace.kickAction?u=2415875&as=5926 http://media.kickstatic.com/kickapps/images/5926/users/kelseymaeshaw_5926_portrait160X120.jpg false 0 0 56838 2415875 Member 0