Ministry Report and Calendar

February 11th, 2009

Discipleship-Counsel Sessions–

January: 15. Homes for Life. 6 group and individual sessions.

LIVE Web Radio:

Pre-recorded shows @ 2:30 pm daily on www.gracewalk.org (click GW Radio) Listen to Scott LIVE each Monday @ 8:30 pm on “Living Truth” counseling call-in show; then “InYou Ministries” Show following at 9:30 pm EST, by visiting www.talkshoe.com (search “grace walk”).“Living in the Now.” Book project.

Men’s Discipleship meets each Friday at Bethlehem BC, 10:30 am.

Prison Services coming Feb. 22, April 26 and June 28, 5:30 pm @ Tyger River.

Jan. 24– “Living in the Now/Sweet Fellowship” Conference was great as Scott disciples through the new book project.

Jan. 29– InYou provided donuts and Scott spoke at Dorman HS FCA.

Feb. 6-8, ‘09-Men’s Retreat, Lake Conroe, TX. Fellowship, worship, skeet-shootin’, etc.

Feb. 13–Valentine Banquet @ Mt. Zion BC.

Feb. 27–Counselor Training, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm @ Wolfe’s Home.

Sept. 19-24, ‘09–Revival, Bethlehem UMC, Union.

Posted in Calendar |

Family Update, Jan. 09

February 11th, 2009

The family enjoyed a weekend in AR after Christmas, day-skiing in NC in January, and then Disney World on MLKJ weekend! It was great just being a family together in a little warmer climate. The boys began track (even Cooper is managing this season) and all did well in school last semester. Chase is in another play, Carson’s riding his unicycle and Cooper is getting ready for a talent show at school.

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

Understanding Believe, Faith, and Trust

February 11th, 2009

Your spirit never produces the work of God, but rather responds to what God says He will do. The way the spirit of man responds to God is generally through trust, belief and faith (There is also abide, rest, yield, surrender, etc.). The meaning of all three of these words stems from a common Greek root word which means “assure.” Have you ever thought about how you really know anything for sure? Eventually mind, emotions and will break down or hit a wall and the spirit must break forth. Ultimately, it’s through faith, believing, and trusting that we know anything. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen…By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God” (Hebrews 11:1,3). Who on earth today was there at the beginning of the world to know for sure? No one! The assurance of what we know comes through faith, believing and trusting God and His word, who God is and what He has said. But how are these three words different? Why do we have three different words for assurance? Although believe, faith and trust are intimately intertwined, they may differ in some of these subtle ways: We believe God because of what we know He has done in the past. We have faith in who God is in the present, and that God is able and can do what He has promised or commanded, even when we cannot see it yet. We trust God, that He will in the future accomplish His promises by His power alone .

Believe

Believe is used 259 Times in the NASB Bible (39 OT, 220 NT). To believe God is to find assurance in who He is and what He has done in the past. “So when He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He said this; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus has spoken” (John 2:22). The disciples were asked to believe in what they heard and saw and touched and witnessed. Their beliefs were rooted in historical facts and revealed prophecy.God has made Himself known and never asks us to believe in the unknown or unseen. Rather than our coming up with our own works for God, God desires that we simply believe in the work that He has done for us. “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him who He has sent” (John 6:29). “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). We believe in the facts of what God has done for us.

Faith

Faith is used 228 Times in the NASB Bible (4 OT, 224 NT). Faith is finding confidence in God’s presence by acting on what God has said through obedience and choice. Faith is present tense, in the NOW, yet relies on the past performance of God. Faith is only good for the moment and it only benefits the one who exercises it. “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). In view of God’s demonstration of faithfulness, faith acts in the assurance that the “not yet” will become, that the unseen will one day be. Faith is “the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). In the gospels, Jesus often said, “Your faith has made you well!” He’s looking for those who are confident that He is and that He is able to move mountains by a mere mustard seed-sized faith; it’s the object of faith, not the faith itself, that moves the mountains. There is no such thing as “blind faith.” God never asked anyone to have faith in nothing, or in something or in just anything. He asks us to believe in Him. He speaks, He promises, He commands, He reveals who He is and what He intends to do, then He says, “Now act on what I’ve said to you.” We walk by faith and not by sight.

 Trust

Trust (or trustworthy) is used 149 times in the NASB Bible (134 OT, 15 NT). Trust finds hope in that God will do what He has promised. Isn’t it interesting that trust is used more in the OT? Trust looks forward to the fulfillment of the promises of God in Christ. It is possible to believe in God and yet not trust Him. James 2:19-20 says, “You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?” You can believe a chair can hold you up without resting in it or trusting it completely. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Posted in InYou Window |

“Choose”

December 19th, 2008

“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery” (Gal. 5:1).

I want to make 3 observations from Deuteronomy 30:15-20a:

1. “See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, and death and adversity; in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His judgments, that you may live and multiply, and that the Lord your God may bless you in the land where you are entering to possess it. 2. But if your heart turns away and you will not obey, but are drawn away and worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today that you shall surely perish. You shall not prolong your days in the land where you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess it.

3. I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants, by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding fast to Him; for He is your life…”

Obsrv. 1: God says the opportunity He offers us is “life AND death, prosperity AND adversity…the blessing AND the curse…now choose.” It does not say OR but AND. Life on earth involves both good and bad. It rains on the just and the unjust. Whether temptation or a decision about God’s will, the options are always before us.I think there are times we want God to give us an OR instead of an AND. We believe this will make the choice easier. Then there are times we long for an AND instead of an OR…like at a restaurant or in a clothing store! God offers the AND.

Obsrv. 2: Our hearts turn FROM God before we ever turn TO an idol. The peace of God, then, is relinquished before an idol is sought; therefore, that idol has no chance of satisfying the need for the peace which comes from the presence of God. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 3:23) and this never changes, for it is the nature of sin. We are always free to choose, but we are not free to choose the consequences. Obsrv. 3: Everything works for God. Heaven and earth tell of God’s ways and point us toward Him. Refuse to love God and you will hate the world…and eventually disown yourself. Refuse to obey God’s voice and the world, circumstances, even your own body will work against you. Let go of God and run and you will be running from life! Let the rebellious child go, for Life will bring him back.Every day is a choice! But it can only be a choice if there are options. God grants us options. If we choose sin, we’ve chosen death, and death becomes “choice-less.” Why? Because sin is also slavery (John 8:34), so it has relinquished its choice. Slaves don’t choose. Sin is then unnatural because it has lost its freedom to choose.However, Jesus has set us free from sin through His death “for he [the believer] who has died [crucified with Christ] is freed from sin…therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body” (Rom. 6:7,12). Now we have options again. Options are only for the free!

Because of what Jesus has done for us, we are free to choose again! We were slaves of sin, but now we are slaves of Christ (Eph. 6:6). Choice is only possible for the free. “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.“ (v.36). God can only offer choices to free people. We are free to choose! We can choose and we must choose. God works WITH us for freedom’s sake (My 14-year-old son Carson just summarized it this way): “You have to be free to make a choice and you have to make a choice to be free.”Choose Life!Quotables:

Dr. Larry Crabb writes… “We must insist that the image of God is central . . . that our sinfulness, not how we’ve been sinned against, is our biggest problem; that forgiveness, not wholeness, is our greatest need; that repentance, not insight, is the dynamic in all real change.”Scott Wolfe says…

In Isaiah 6, the angels proclaim three ways God is not like us– “Holy, Holy, Holy!”

Posted in InYou Window |

Greater Works

November 21st, 2008

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father” (John 14:12).I have to admit, this verse has caused me a great deal of anxiety in my life. During my college years, I served in a youth ministry summer internship program in Winter Park, FL, where I was introduced to some charismatic teachings. The testimonies I heard that summer from young men “delivered” from homosexual lifestyles and demonic activities awakened my appetite to the works God could do through me. A deep desire to be a useful tool in God’s hand propelled me to want all that God had to offer me. I wanted to do “greater works.”Well, this past Sunday our pastor was preaching on the Holy Spirit and led us to John 14:16-18: “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

Well, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to recognize what words jumped off the page at me. There it was, plain as day…the name of this ministry: inYou. This Holy Spirit/Helper Jesus promised was at that time WITH the disciples, but He would be (after Pentecost) IN them! It hit me that these greater works could only happen after Jesus’ returned to the Father. Why? Because the Holy Spirit–the Spirit of Christ– could not indwell the believer until after Jesus had been crucified, buried, resurrected, and ascended. “But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you” (John 16:7).
Here’s our advantage and the reason we can do greater works. Now the Holy Spirit lives within each believer and accomplishes the works of the Father. Just as the Father did His work through Jesus His Son, so the Holy Spirit does the greater works of Jesus through us–me and you!

“Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes‘” (John 5:19-21).You see, Jesus never did an original thing. He was a copy cat. He only did what He saw the Father doing. Now Father God loves us and wants to communicate with us. He initiates the love relationship. This is the key to our doing greater works today: we simply respond to what the Father is doing, through the Son, by His Spirit in us. Now, by His indwelling Holy Spirit, we simply hear and respond to God in faith and obedience.

And what is the greater work? Perhaps it is this: that you and I offer to anyone the free gift of eternal life through the Spirit. We can now proclaim the good news and offer to anyone who believes and receives Jesus Christ a brand new life! We do what Jesus foretold, but could not do…

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’ But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified“ (John 7:38-39).WOW! Amazing! You and I are called to the greater work of proclaiming the greater message to a world in greater need that ever before. “We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ” (Col. 1:28).

Pray with me as we take this magnificent message to the masses (even if this means only a few at a time) in 2009. inYou will offer monthly discipleship conferences to proclaim the mystery and remind the believers of who they are and what they have in Christ.

Posted in InYou Window |

“Brainwashed”

October 22nd, 2008

I’ve been reading The Fisherman, by Larry Huntsperger, about the disciple Peter and I can “feel him.” He’s so over-the-top, like me at times. He’s one extreme or the other and seldom in the center. He’s a nothing-or-all-kinda-guy. Listen to him: “Peter said to Him, ‘Never shall You wash my feet!’ Jesus answered him, ‘If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.’ Simon Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.‘ Jesus said to him, ‘He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean…” (John 13:8-10).Peter jumps from bold, fleshly, zealous defensiveness to bold, fleshly, zealous, self-surrender. First, his fleshly defense: ‘Never shall You wash my feet!’ Peter exudes a blind confidence in the current stream of thought flowing through his brain, impulsively acting on his own imperfect agenda from the gut, reacting to Jesus from his own perspective. But a subtle rebuke from the Master must have created an instant avalanche of “Stupid me, what was I thinking! Wait! I’ll make up for it. Watch this! I’ll see to it that I don’t make the same mistake twice and embarrass myself again. I am somebody. I’ll do something heroic!”This leads him to his second extreme, his heroic self-surrender: “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.” If one rebuke was an avalanche, the second correction from Jesus must have snowballed him into a frozen state. “Oops! That was the wrong thing to say. I would back-track and cover my trail, and pretend this scene never happened, but I’ve already been seen.” Feeling caught, he reacted by resorting to his super-spiritual underwear. He mentally ducked into the nearest phony-booth, stripped himself of the blush-red, defensive coverage and popped out with a deeper layer of pseudo-spiritual success wear labeled “I surrender all.”

Jesus isn’t fooled. He knows the truth. He is the Truth. He doesn’t go along with Peter’s roller-coaster reactions, his pendulum pandemonium, but stands centered in the truth, the truth that He made real in Peter’s life by His word: “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean…”Clean. What a nice word. What a nice feeling. I’m on the plane from a week in Peru as I write this. We haven’t had a clean shower in eight days, so I’m longing for that feeling soon. I do need to be bathed from head to foot, but more than that I need a brainwash! As I was saying, “I feel Peter.” Just as I walked through the dirty streets and “poopy pastures” of Peru, I have often traveled the same up-and-down mental dirt roads Peter did, getting dusted by the same internal self-talk, and I need my brain washed!

I hear professor Terry Powell’s words echoing in my mind: “You’d worry much less about what people thought of you if you realized how seldom they did.” It’s when I go through those self-focused periods of self-consumption, wondering about my worth and the impression I am leaving, that I am either thinking more highly of myself than I ought or less of myself than is the truth in Christ.

“Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Sanctified. Washed. Made new by the truth of Jesus Christ. Through His powerful word, God has cleansed the soul (mind, emotions, and will), making us, His Bride, acceptable and even glorious in His sight: “having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word.” (Eph. 5:26). Good news: It’s done! The natural mind, like Peter’s at the time, does not get this, “But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16b). However, Peter gets it after the coming of the Holy Spirit: Read all of 1 Peter 1:3-25!

“You shall be holy for I am holy” (1:16). The OT command or prophecy becomes a NT promise and provision in Christ. I no longer try to be holy or “clean my own brain” for I can neither manufacture nor consistently manifest mental or moral might regardless of my sincerity; but through faith, in rest, I receive what I cannot achieve: the very mind of Christ. Brainwashed by Jesus! “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you (John 15:3). Receive the life you want.

Posted in InYou Window |

“Free to Fail”

October 22nd, 2008

We’re supposed to fail. Isn’t that actually a comforting thought? How is that comforting? Because it takes the monkey of perfectionism off our backs and places it back in an environment where it can actually be enjoyed. I like watching monkeys frolic in their habitat at the zoo or on Animal Planet, but if those wild varmints got too close, if they started invading my space, like they do in India, I’d get a little uptight! While in Peru, we just couldn’t take our eyes off this cute little monkey from the jungle someone held in a crate. But we were warned not to get too close or he might bite.At some time or another I can’t help but believe that we all have gotten a little too close to perfectionism–to trying to become perfect. And I’d imagine a few of us have even been bit. We’ve failed and the pain of imperfection has left us licking our wounds, blaming ourselves and sometimes biting back with bitter rebellion. (I’ve realized we often rebel not just because we want our way, but because we cannot do it His way.) And I feel sure that if you haven’t failed then you’ve probably succeeded to a point of even greater misery.

Whatever your experience may be, something in us is drawn to things going right. We expect perfection. What do you think makes us relish in a “perfect sunset?” Why is it that we are set free and experience such satisfaction with a beautiful fall day, an obedient child, a perfect season (like Dorman cross country and football have had so far this year), a score of “100” on a test, or a perfect relationship? (Well, I’m not sure that exists–Ha!–but we do have our moments.)

We were created perfectly and we were made for perfection. This is why heaven is so appealing. We know this is where we belong, where we will experience perfect peace and pleasure, because the presence of God makes all things perfect. But what about here and what about now? Is it possible to find perfection in this life? Jesus preached “you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matt. 5:48; Lev. 19:2). Surely God would not command the impossible would He?

Listen quickly. Jesus came as a prophet under the Law. He had to be perfect to be the unblemished Lamb of God and He preached perfection to raise the bar for wanna-be perfectionists. But did He expect that we could do it? He did not, but He knew that we would have to be convinced of it ourselves. Jesus said, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Mt. 19:26). Through the Law, we were set up to fail: “The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Rm. 5:20). Yes, we are supposed to fail, to recognize and admit our imperfection.The environment in which perfection can actually be enjoyed is “in Christ.” When you are in Christ, the commands of God become promises, because Jesus fulfills in you all that is required:

“For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did; sending His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not work according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Rom. 8:3-4).Now that He has done the work for us, we live from His holiness, not for it. “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord” (2 Cor. 7:1).“…but like the Holy One who called, be holy yourselves in all your behavior; because it is written [a promise here], ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy’” (1 Pet. 1:15-16).Our part now is not to pursue personal perfection by our own moral achievement, but through faith in what God has done for us, receive and express, with great joy and humility, the perfection of Jesus Christ that God provided through His Holy Spirit! Our responsibility is based upon our “response ability.” How will you respond to God’s offer of perfection through Him? The only perfect peace on earth comes through a work only our holy God can do for us, to us, in us, and through us. Love is perfected (made complete, brought to maturity) through knowing, believing, abiding in God’s love for us “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:16-18). You are free to fail!If we could achieve perfection, we would boast, comparing and competing in pride. When we receive His perfect life in faith, our ego dies and we are free to fail! Our acceptance is not in being perfect, but being made perfect through Christ. “We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete [perfect] in Christ” (Col. 1:28).

Posted in InYou Window |

Family Update

October 22nd, 2008

This month began on August 1, at 12:00 am as usual, except me, Chase and Carson were in the airport in Lima, Peru (and it was my birthday)! Our mission group sang “Happy Birthday” to me, and to our surprise, were followed by a large group of Peruvians who sang their own version of “Feliz Compreanos???” (I have it on video!) We flew on to Miami, Atlanta, and finally Dallas, TX, for a nephews wedding. Since then, we have been running, painting and getting back to school. This year four Wolfe’s are at four different schools.

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

Dark Night of the Soul

September 13th, 2008

by Author Unknown


“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will l hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land”. - 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Another key similarity between revival and nuclear fission is a strange phenomenon that occurs right before the atom splits. The nucleus actually depresses. Scientists observe that the neutron bombardment which seemed to be changing the nucleus, now shows no sign of reaching critical mass. Nothing seems to be happening.That is also what happens right before a manifestation of God’s glory. The revival core will be praying and sensing a rising tide of power and expectancy. All of a sudden, you hit a brick wall. The power is gone. God’s presence seems to have lifted. Your prayers feel trapped in your mouth. A deep despair settles in. You feel physically drained.This is the dark night of the soul. This is where every revival pioneer has been before you and now it’s your turn. It will take everything in you to keep moving. The sobering fact is that many who have reached the dark night of the soul have retreated. Eternity will reveal a long, sad history of revival near-misses.Let me state emphatically that 90% of revival is getting to the point where an unshakeable resolve is born. Everything you have done before you reach this dark night will seem unimportant. It is what you do now that makes or breaks your heart’s desire.At no other time does God express love more than when He allows this time of total emptiness. God risks being misunderstood. He faces the potential of one of His children walking away frustrated and confused, but He believes the good it will produce is well worth the risk.What do you do when this cloud of darkness settles on you?Scientists respond to a depressed nucleus by intensifying the neutron beam, and resolve to do so until fission occurs. They commit to keep moving, not relying on any physical signs. That is precisely what we must do to see the end of this night.Why does God allow this dark night? I strongly believe that our Father realized that those through whom He works to bring revival receive great praise from the church and awesome attacks from Satan. A person lacking humility won’t survive the praise of men. A person without perseverance won’t overcome Satan. The revival core must realize this and stand the test.Just as a scientist turns up the force of the neutron beam even though he sees no result, so true revivalists will turn up their prayer during the dark night of the soul. If the children of God demonstrate that they won’t go by what they see or feel, God will know that He has vessels that will not rely on circumstances or feelings to keep them on a straight course.If the prayer of the revival core continues during this dark night, their true motive surfaces. The only thing that will hold us when the nucleus depresses is a pure heart of love for the lost and a true desire to see God glorified. God wisely observes that anyone who survives this night is rightfully suited to invade enemy territory.Again we see this fifth stage in our key verse, 2 Chronicles 7:14, “…will humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways…’It would seem that by this stage, God would know we have abandoned our sin. The issue, however, is something deeper; it deals with our ways. Our repentance has dealt with what we have done; now the purification focuses on what we are.The psalmist distinguished two aspects of God: His acts and His ways. “He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel” (Psalm 103:7).The children of Israel only knew God from miracle to miracle, but Moses knew the deep intentions and the long-range plan of God. Moses understood the essence, heartbeat and direction of God.To turn from our wicked ways doesn’t just mean to repent of our sins. Hitherto, we have repented of our acts, now we need deliverance from our ways.Gethsamane was the dark night of the soul for Jesus Christ; it was the test of His ways. You wonder if Jesus had to repent. The answer is no, but He had to be examined in His Father’s court of justice.The dark night of the soul is a very baffling test, for it comes at a least expected time and with special conditions. The inner nature must be surprised, caught off guard, in order to be exposed and conquered.In the many records of revival, there is an almost uniform description of this crucible… on the mountain top one moment, feeling run over by a train the next.Joseph, barely recovered from a glorious dream, is thrown into a pit by his brothers. David, still hearing the chant of the throng saying, ‘Saul has slain his thousands and David his ten thousands,’ wakes up in a cave being hunted like an animal.Even Jesus, with the hosannas still ringing in His ears from the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, now prays alone, cold, tormented, sweating blood, and surrounded by sleeping disciples.The battlements of heaven are waiting for that unmistakable ring of genuine obedience where the dragon of human nature has been met and beheaded. “Not my will but thy will be done!”Before the crown comes the bitter cup. It must be swallowed to the bitter dregs.So then, what is the Lord really looking for? A servant who knows that the cup cannot pass. Take heart if you wish that it would pass. Even Jesus asked if it was necessary to drink. But He did not ask to escape because of fear of pain or selfishness. He asked because, for the first time in eternity, He would be separated from His Father. He knew that the plan to save man would have to break His Father’s heart. Only Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah could begin to understand the grief.Herein lies the truth that releases the glory. In repenting of sin, we rid ourselves of evil but in the dark night of the soul, we surrender the things we dearly love, things we can’t readily identify as being in conflict with God.Here the issue is not right and wrong, but high and low purposes of living.Spiritual awakening is not simply getting rid of sin, it is giving God what He wants.Again and again I have tried to stress that we must conclude with iron resolve that there is no substitute for revival. It is the higher ground we must reach because the flood is rising. No point of return can exist, no alternative can be considered.For fire to fall and consume the sacrifice, it must be innocent and without blemish, but, most of all, it must be on the altar to stay.Under every other circumstance our nature can hide, but in this dark night it screams for its way, and its many tentacles are exposed.The protest was immediate. “Why this waste?” screamed the apostles, led by Judas Iscariot. Their outrage was almost convincing. The ointment was worth a year’s salary (maybe $12,000 today). It could have been used to have fed the poor, they argued (actually, Judas wanted to steal it).This is the entire issue with revival. They wanted to do something for God. Mary knew it was time to do something to God.The time has come to pour out our best on God. Jesus said, “The poor you have with you always.” Good deeds are always available.America is spiritually dying because God has sales reps and not channels of His glory. We feverishly do the right things, almost as a bribe to postpone the needed pouring out of ourselves as a living sacrifice.Again we must no longer see the bad things as barriers to revival, but the seemingly good.We can’t dole out precious ointment to the poor in doses that don’t cure them or honor God. We must be poured out on God!Spiritual awakening means that the faithful become fiery, the decent become dynamic, and the acceptable become excellent. But, most of all, we become disgusted with our evil, and totally dissatisfied with our good.We realize that now is the time to pull out all the stops. No program is sacred, no worthy project is worth enough. None of the ointment can be spared. It is revival or death!As I said before, the nucleus of the atom depresses right before fission and in that lies another key parallel to revival… the nucleus explodes from that depressed condition. It does not split when it looks inflated and energetic but rather when it is shrunken and lifeless.Revival comes out of nowhere by sovereign timing. The prayer core is ready to fall from exhaustion but hangs on by its confidence in the faithfulness of God.Jehovah detects that special quality that can be rewarded with revival.An eviction notice falls with a loud crash on the porch of the local satanic supervisor. Angels receive their invasion orders. The prayer core looks up and sees the glory coming. The roar of God is about to be heard in the land once more…

Posted in InYou Window |

God Has Moved Mountains for You!

July 23rd, 2008

A popular song by last year’s American Idol winner, Jordan Sparks (with Chris Brown), is called “No Air.” It speaks of being so crazy in love that you can’t breathe! It reminds me of the Mt. Everest Guy who, for the lack of the very thing he desperately needed, refused to place his oxygen mask on his nose and breathe! He was found dead with his salvation right around his neck.All you really need is Jesus. I am pleading with you to simply breathe in the Life that is found in Him! He is near!

Deut. 30:14– “But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart,

that you may observe it.”

You may be dying on the inside–gasping for air–because you don’t know that God is near, that He IS your Life. You don’t realize what God has done and is doing for you! He is near! “God has moved mountains for you!”What’s your mountain? A problem or tragedy, your home life (no freedom?), school/peer pressure, a moral struggle with impure desires, or maybe that no one is interested in you?; depression/suicide, fatal self-concept (like “stupid, worthless”), a physical or mental handicap, money problems, friendships?How have you tried to do to overcome it? Work harder, try more, be better, please certain people, make promises, rededicate yourself to God…How have your attempts to improve left you feeling? Tired, frustrated, confused, helpless, abandoned, unwanted, unheard, scared, like you want to do something really bad or mean, hurting inside!…

What do you do with that pain and anger? Explode, lash out, bottle it up, get lost in music, hit, scream, get angry at my parents, blame others, get lost in a fantasy on the internet, or on TV or just numb out the emptiness with drugs, sex alcohol.And when you‘ve accomplished all that stuff, how do you feel about yourself? Like there‘s a mountain in front of you that you cannot move!!!LISTEN, God has moved mountains for you! Do you know that!? The Christian life isn’t about what you do, but what God has done for you! Your way will eventually leave you feeling helplessly stuck. Do you realize that the #2 killer among teens today in America is suicide! “What’s going on here!” “The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy…” Yes, Satan may be digging a hole for you–you may feel like you‘re in a deep pit of frustration and despair in your attempt to move your mountain–but what happens to all the dirt he shovels out? It makes a mountain to God! Can you see it? Turn around and look!Mountain One: Mt. SinaiExodus 19:16-24 tells of a mountain you cannot climb: Law Mountain. Why not? Because “the Law brings about wrath” (Romans 4:15). Man cannot climb to God on his own merit, by trying to keep the Law. The thunder, lightening, cloud, trumpet sound, fire, and smoke of God‘s holiness required Moses to “Set bounds about the mountain and consecrate it“ (Ex. 19:23). Mount Sinai is the Mosaic Law mountain, and “the Law came in so that the transgression would increase…” (Romans 5:20). “I once was alive apart from the Law, but when the commandment came, sin became alive and I died” (7:9).This mountain became a curse (Gal. 3:13) and is also spoken of in the New Testament in Hebrews 12:18-21:

“For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and to a blazing fire, and to darkness and gloom and whirlwind, and to the blast of trumpet and the sound of words which sound was such that those who heard begged that no further word be spoken to them. For they could not bear the command, ‘If even a beast touches the mountain, it will be stoned.’ And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, ‘I am full of fear and trembling.’”

Are you in a place in your life where you feel afraid of God’s presence, because you are well aware of the contrast between Him and you? Do you feel powerless to change, helpless, or out of control? Are you weary from the struggle?Good news: God has moved mountains for you!Hebrews 12:22-24: “But you have come to Mt. Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks better than the blood of Abel.” Do you see it? God moved mountains! He did it for you. Whereas the Law from Mt. Sinai introduced sin and sin resulted in our death, Grace from Mt. Zion invites us to come near and be made alive: “but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Romans 5:20).  GOD has moved MOUNTAINS for YOU! Below is a contrast between the two mountains in Hebrews 12:18-24:  Mt. Sinai                       Mt. Zion  Sin is ever before         Sin is eternally      God’s throne                 dealt with @                                             the cross  Stay Away–                 Come Near–     Run for your life!      Come for your life!  Law (written on cold, Grace (written on      hard stone),                   heart, 2 Cor. 3:3)     and with it comes:       and with it comes:  Condemnation             Righteousness  Wrath                             Mercy  Death                             Life You see, God has moved mountains for you! What does this mean for you?You do not approach God in fear of what might happen if you DO come, but in fear of what might happen if you DON’T! Why? Because… 1.  The Father doesn’t condemn/punish you for your sin.       Many people are made to feel guilty for the death of Christ by preachers who proclaim, “YOUR sins nailed Christ to the cross!” 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Your sins did not nail Christ to the cross, but God’s love nailed your sin to the cross.  Which sins did Jesus die for? 1 John 2:2 says all of them–the sins of the whole world! The wrath of God was placed on His Son! Jesus took our punishment. “Therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). To the woman caught in adultery, Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go. From now on sin no more” (John 8:11). “When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross” (Col. 2:13-14)!      Where else will you go to have your sins removed?! 2.  The Holy Spirit does not convict the believer of sin, but convinces him of righteousness.           Look at this verse carefully: “And He [Holy Spirit], when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they [the unbeliever] do not believe in Me [the sin is unbelief]; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you [disciples or believers] no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged” (Jn. 16:8-10). In a recent conference, Steve McVey pointed out that the work of the Holy Spirit in the believers life was not in reference to sin but righteousness. He works in us to convince us of our right standing before God, reminding us of who we are in Christ.           This is HUGE for daily warfare: The enemy accuses the wayward believer saying, “Why are your trying to be good you sinner?” However, the Holy Spirit whispers, “Why are sinning My holy child?” In John 15, Jesus tells the disciples, “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you” (Jn. 15:3). In Christ, we work from holiness, not for it!       “Then why do I feel bad when I sin? It feels like God is angry with me.” a)    It’s SIN punishing you, not God. Sin and punishment are one in the same:                  2 Peter 2:13 “suffering wrong as the wages of doing wrong” (also Rm. 3:23)        Romans 1:27 “receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error.”        Colossians 3:25 “for he who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he has done, and that without partiality.”                   Lamentations 1:20 “See, O Lord, for I am in distress; my spirit is greatly troubled; my heart is overturned within me, for I have been very rebellious….for my groans are many and my heart is faint”        (Also Psalm 38; Prov. 5:20; 7:16; 8:36; 10:16; 11:27)b)    Your sin is not who you are! I can prove it…”        A sheep and a pig in a mud pit in the barnyard, What does the pig do? He wallers in it! What about the sheep? He cries out. You see, the animals are revealed by their struggle. If you struggle against sin, are you a sheep or a pig? Your struggle reveals your true nature. 3.  Jesus invites you to come to Mt. Zion; to become who you are in Him!          A hunched-over beggar sat outside a studio apartment every day, and each day the attendant would give him a small donation. One day the beggar asked the attendant why he was so kind. Was it because of his vocation? The attendant replied, “I am a sculptor. In fact, I have sculpted you from my window.” “Sure!” the beggar responded, but when he reached the studio, he only noticed the sculpture of a tall, handsome man, well-dressed, chest out and head slightly lifted. “Why that isn’t me!” the beggar  remarked. “That’s not the way I look.” “Well, that’s the way I see you,” said the sculptor. With tears in his eyes, the beggar concluded, “Well if that’s the way you see me, that’s the way I’ll be.” “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:18). Even when you feel as though your life has amounted to nothing, Jesus says, “But I chose you!” “all things belong to you, and you belong to Christ; and Christ belongs to God” (1 Cor. 3:22a-23). “having nothing yet possessing all things” (2 Cor. 6:10b). God does much with little, most with least, and everything with nothing. The invitation is to come to the Mt. Zion, come to Calvary!      …not only to be saved from eternal hell, but also be saved from the daily hell.      You cannot climb the mountain. of your problems; you must come to Jesus!       What is it that you’ve been trying to overcome in your own strength?       What is the situation you are in that is convincing you that you are weak?      Admit your struggle and simply get on your knees and run to Jesus in prayer.

                I am calling you to repent of self-effort and believe in Jesus’ finished work on the cross for you! Return to the Lord and be healed!

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March 2008 Ministry Report

May 7th, 2008

Discipleship-Counsel Sessions: 14

Homes for Life. 4 group and 2 (Lyda) individual sessions this month.

LIVE Web Radio: www.gracewalk.org! Listen LIVE each Friday @ 8:00 am EST and pre-recorded @ 2:30 pm daily. This month we also recorded a LIVE counseling call-in show on Monday @ 8:30 pm.

“Living in the Now.” Book project.

“Friday Noon Lights” men’s discipleship and accountability group each Friday at BBC, 12:00 noon.

Apr. 20, May 4, 18–Hope Point Parents of Teens Small Group meet.

Mar. 9– Scott spoke to the staff and deacons of New Life Baptist in Union, SC and enjoyed their service.

Mar. 14-15 “Uncompromising Compassion” Weekend. UBNXS and Scott led BBC youth in a serious look at how the Christian is to respond to teen homosexuality, “cutting,” etc.

April–Teach The Firm for Will Gunter and the Bethlehem BC Youth.

April 8–Speak at Wofford FCA.

April 12– “Sweet Fellowship” in our home, 7:00-8:30 pm.

May 18– Youth rally for in Union.

May 30-June 6–Peru Mission Trip with Chase and/or Carson. We will need $1500 each plus passports and shots.

Aug. 3-5–Men’s Retreat in TX.

 

Would you prayerfully consider supporting InYou in 2008? You may also help by providing opportunities to share the message of “Christ in you.”

An InYou Investor gives $20/month for 10 months, check or credit card.

Posted in Ministry Report |

“Ministering in Fullness”

May 7th, 2008

Whatever is not of the fullness of God’s Spirit, is from self and for self. If I serve others out of a need in me that needs to be met, I am serving myself. I am using others to make me feel complete. I met a woman who became angry to the point of tears because other people wouldn’t prioritize or put the same emphasis, time and energy into her ministry. I met a pastor who scolded his staff for not doing enough to make the church grow. (Unfortunately, I’ve met quite a few!) This is self-serving. Instead of giving out the overflow of God’s love, they are sucking the life out of others.In ministry, as with any relationship, if I look for something in someone else to fulfill something in me, I am in great danger. If I look to others to validate me, I am self-seeking. \Love “does not seek its own” (1 Cor. 13:5). This is the essence of immature dating relationships and is still evident in many marriages. It‘s also very present in ministry: “For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so they may boast in your flesh. But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:13-14).

These legalistic Jewish-Christians based their success on the behavior of others. They needed others to prop them up. Paul was not living to men, for he died to the world. The world has nothing for the believer. Instead, Paul says, “do nothing from selfish ambition or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Phil. 2:3-8).

Fullness comes though emptiness, the emptying of self. And with humility comes the fullness of God, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Fullness is not bought or sought, but simply received through faith. Receive the fullness of God’s Spirit now. He’s near.

In college, I was led to believe that the fullness of the Spirit came through personal confession of sin and a sincere pursuit of holy living. I set out to purge and purify myself in order to become worthy of fullness. The responsibility of fullness rested at my feet and I was heavy-laden. Fullness never came. In fact, I became very depressed, and even developed shingles! I was seeking sincerely, but was seriously misled. I cannot do for myself what God has already done for me in Christ! “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you” (John 15:3, 4a). I wish someone has told me that then.

Jesus experienced the fullness of God in ministry because He emptied Himself. “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands [That‘s fullness!], and that He had come forth from God [so He had nothing to prove to men] and was going back to God [so He had nothing to lose], got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself. Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded [He met the needs of men]” (John 13:3-5). Jesus lived with nothing to prove and nothing to lose; crucified to the world and the world to Him; not living to men, but living for men! That’s ministering in fullness!

This life, His life lives in every believer. The Christian life is Christ in you! Fullness is received and experienced as we simply receive and express Christ’s life, allowing Him to live through us. One of Jesus’ final words on earth was to Peter, the Rock of the Church: “…what is that to you? You follow me” (John 21:22b). Don’t worry about what others do. Follow Jesus!

PERU Picts.: bethlehembaptistnet.com. Be sure to click on “Missions.” Also on my facebook.com

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“River of Life” (Stress in workplace)

May 7th, 2008

I spoke this month to a group of SC state records employees. I couldn’t wait to show-‘n-tell my jar of waterfall! That’s right, I was able to capture just a piece of that beautiful, majestic, powerful waterfall I saw the other day in a simple, glass Mason jar. As I stood before the group, I whipped it from behind my back and cried “Look! Isn‘t it amazing!” No one seemed impressed. I shook the jar and said, “See!“ But still no ooo’s or aaah’s. It died!Anything removed from it Source dies. How about you? Are you living today? I know you’re alive, but are you living? Are you living life or is life living you? Have you lost your Source of life today?You are no longer living if…

…you are bored, sarcastic, apathetic, don’t care, give up, stop seeking, asking and knocking.

…you say things like “doesn’t matter”, “whatever”, “who cares?”

…you are angry, irritable, pick fights…you are depressed, critical, harsh, edgy, lazy

…you are thinking obsessively on the past or the future

…you are spinning your wheels, doing the same things seeking different results, doing something just to do something

…you are trapped in indecision, don’t decide, let others decide for you

…you feel overwhelmed, used, abused, taken advantage of, unloved, unwanted, hopeless, powerless, lost

…you are a victim, puppet, punching bag, door mat, delivery boy, compliant follower, slave

…you have all you want and don‘t want what you have

…you walk like a lamb to the slaughter of drugs, fantasy, alcohol, work (just one more thing to do), pornography, sex, sensuality

…when you look for spiritual experiences with high emphasis on emotion

…when you want to skip to the end of the book (and you’re currently dreading the story).

…when you want to pack up and go to heaven …when you are “serving others” to satisfy them, yourself or God…when you are alone, empty, stuck, dry, have nothing left

…when those nearest to you don’t know what you are thinking and feeling

American businesses pay an estimated $300,000,000,000 annually due to stress related issues in the workplace, yet the workplace is very likely not a significant portion of the source of the problem. I like to say, “Your problem’s not your problem, but only a revealer of the problem.”

If I asked you to trade problems with someone else in this room, you wouldn‘t. Di you know that 97% of your fears never transpire? I’ve discovered that control is an illusion. You’re never in it! One entrepreneur had a clever idea: he hired a worrier for $200,000/year. When asked by his new employee how he would make enough to pay his salary, the entrepreneur replied, “That‘s your worry.”

There is perhaps nothing more stressful to a stressed out person than a stress management course. And nothing more frustrating to an angry person than anger management course, Why? Because…

“Your problem’s not your problem, but only a revealer of the problem.”

The PROBLEM is INYOU! Booker T. Washington, upon being shoved to the ground by a passerby on the sidewalk, said, “I defy any man to make me hate.” He realized the secret; that the locus of control is within!

You know, “Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways,” a Proverbs says. We need something to shake us out of the rut. It may be perceived as an enemy, but in the end it’s the truest friend. For me it was spinal meningitis. It came as a blessing bringing me to the end of myself. It was the culmination of a pleasing and performing lifestyle that led me to live from the outside-in and lose my true self.We must transition into another realm, a new paradigm, a new life!, where acceptance and love replace the fear of rejection, and this new place is not a geographic relocation, it is within. It is a state of being (not doing) that promotes a genuineness and authenticity of character where no man can touch the peace discovered.

I call this place (also the title of my first book): “Living in the NOW!”

For almost 10 years now I have dedicated my time to leading people to experience and express Jesus in the NOW. Only in this present moment is there peace, love and joy.

You are living in the future when…
…You live in fear. …You worry. …You are anxious.…You cannot say no. …You cannot say yes.

…You cannot choose. …You feel stuck. …You live in dread. …You’re in a hurry. …You cannot slow down. …Your ambition overshadows your responsibilities.

You are living in the past when…
…you expect today to be better (or worse) than yesterday
…you don’t step out and risk a new idea
…you refuse to ask for what you need
…you only feel you have one choice
…you cannot love the one you’re with
…you will not love your neighbor
…you refuse to bless and pray for your enemies
…you are not willing to mourn the loss you feel
…you are not forgiving and have become bitter
…you judge another (prejudice, bigoted)
…you are offended
…you live with (even hold on to) guilt, regret, or shame
…you cannot see a person for who they really are
…you compare

? How many of your problems at work are really problems at work? PROMISE: Isaiah 43:1-2–“Do not fear for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you.”Two men headed out on a journey to a city some miles downstream from their village. As they traveled, a storm arose and a sudden downpour of torrential rains washed them both into the river. One man panicked and struggled to swim back to shore, but eventually drowned in exhaustion. The other man, recognizing that the current was beyond his control, relaxed, leaned back in the flow of water and allowed the river to carry him. To his amazement, the river released him onto the banks of the city he was traveling toward, causing him to arrive much sooner than he would have had he walked.

It’s not what happens to you in life, but what you do with what happens to you that makes you who you are and takes you where you may not want to go. What do you do when under stress? Do you speed up? Do you hit the gas when you’re spinning on ice? I know what you’re thinking: “I just want to get through this!” But it doesn’t work that way.

There Are 3 Things I Want You to Consider:1. Recognize the River of Life.

The River of Life is dynamic, purposeful and has direction. The river’s not the problem, but not knowing where it may take you can cause fear to arise. Much stress in the workplace results in having little or no clearly communicated direction (or job description). Perhaps most stress evolves from unexpressed or unrealistic expectations and deficient definitions. (This is also true in marriage.)

The undercurrent questions of the soul of man in the workplace are related to purposefulness, meaning, and significance. “Do I matter? Do I have what it takes? Am I making a difference?” When these questions are answered, work takes on new meaning and problems become challenges.

Advice: Get a life outside of work!

2. The River of Life is for us and not against us.

“I dreamed I saw a river flowing wide and deep.I stood on the shore observing it’s crimson hue.

At first there was great fear, then wonder, then awe.

Never had I seen such power and grace at once.

At a distance I saw a floating object on which I fixed my focus.

It so polluted the beauty of the river that I longed to remove it.

As I brought it near I could smell and see it was something dead; a carcass; a sin in me.

With disgust, I pulled it ashore to ponder it more closely.

It was then I heard a voice from behind, telling me to let it go.

“Can’t you see it’s polluting everything around you?

The longer you hold on to it, the more it contaminates.

Set it back in the river and let it go!”

But how could I? How could I let my sin pollute the river.

The river’s beauty will be tarnished and all my faults will ruin it for others.

I must pull it out and get rid of it myself.

I cannot let it go or I will be to blame; I’m so ashamed; I’m so sorry.

“The river flows, dear child. And as it flows it cleanses the land.

The only pollution you will know will be that which you create

by holding onto what is cleansed naturally by the flow.

Now let it go, dear child, let it go!”

You may be a blame-taker or responsibility freak. “It’s all up to me!” You hold on to your mistakes and the mistakes of others and the perfectionism is killing you. You believe everyone and everything is against you. Not true!Advice: Give ’n Go vs. Stuff ‘n Blow! You can give up the idealism and go on with your day or you can stuff the anger and store up for yourself an atom bomb of unacknowledged feelings. You need to be heard, so meet once each week over lunch with co-workers or a supervisor to air out your feelings.

3. The River of Life will take us where we always wanted to be.Stress = resistance. Resistance says, “I don’t accept this!” Some things you cannot control, so yield to the circumstance and you will find that the river washes away all that isn’t you. Stress can work for you to press you into a new willingness and perspective you never considered before.

You must:

1. Acknowledge where you are.

I’m the typical kind of guy who goes to a mall to hunt for something. (Women shop. Men hunt.) I’ve probably been to my local mall ten times in eight years, hunting for a gift or some other item I already have in mind. Being unfamiliar with the location of the stores in the mall, when I zip through the main entrance, I usually look for a map first thing. I love the large, categorical, alphabetical, numerical, color-coded, display in the middle of the mall, because it’s obviously designed for dummies! One day, I quickly identified my destination and darted down a long wing of the Westgate Mall, but never saw the store that was supposed to be conveniently located on the right. Confused, I came back to the center and rechecked my directions. I had made a crucial mistake. I had accurately located my destination, but I failed to notice a little arrow with three important words. Can you guess what they were? YOU ARE HERE.Point: You will never leave where you are until you admit where you are.

2. Let go of judgment:a. of self (forgive yourself)

b. of circumstance (Do you remember the TV show Hee Haw from the 70‘s where two men discuss the ups and downs, the good and bads, of their circumstances? Well, they never judge them right because they don‘t know the end from the beginning. We just never really know what the end result of an event will be, so judging it as “good” or “bad” only makes our emotions go up and down with the situation.)c. of others (which is more a projection of you!)3. Don’t keep records! (1 Cor. 13–“love doesn‘t keep records of wrong”)

20 Questions: Do you ever ask yourself:1. Do you ever wonder if you did things right?

2. Do you ever wonder if you did the right things?

3. Do you ever regret any decision you made?

4. Does your past ever haunt you?

5. Does fear grip you?

6. Do worries control you?

7. Have you ever felt such pride in yours or your

children’s accomplishment only to be let down?

8. Does shame ever overwhelm you?

9. Do you ever play the game: shoulda, coulda, woulda?

10. Ever been embarrassed by your child’s behavior?

11. Do you ever worry about their future?

12. …or wonder, “Will my health hold out?”

13. …or wonder if you have prepared your spouse/children

for what lies ahead?

14. “Did I forgiven all debts?”

15. “Did I give the best advice?”

16. “Did I spend enough time with my family?”

17. “Did I give enough?”

18. “…serve enough?”

19. “…love enough?”

20. “…pray enough?”

If you have ever asked yourself these questions, you’ve lost your moment. And moments can turn to minutes, and minutes to hours, and hours to days, and days to weeks, and weeks to months, and months to years, and years into a lifetime? If Satan, in his craftiness, can get you worried about your future and hung up in your past, he has stolen your moment. But all we have is the moment. God promises our past is forgiven and warns that tomorrow has enough trouble of it’s own…so live in the moment! It is all you have!

While at the beach this weekend, did you notice the sky? What did you see in the clouds? Did you close your eyes and feel the wind, salt and sand in your face? Did you listen, just listen to the crashing of the waves—melodious rhythms. Was the sun warm? Could you smell the ocean? Did you feed a sea gull? Did you ever wonder where he sleeps or gets his food? Was the breeze a little cleaner after the storm than before? Did you ever wonder how your body warmed itself after a cold dash through the rain? Did you thank God for mysterious heaters within?

Did you observe a sea shell? Did you wonder where it came from? …how it got there? …who or what lived in it?…where has it been?…how did it die? What would it say? Where will it go? Did the crashing of the waves hurt? What is it’s purpose? Did it speak to you something of life? Marred, broken, worn, battered, scarred, petrified, holes completely through it. Accomplishing it’s purpose as it yields to the tides.

And yet, each shell is a wonder to children; a priceless treasure! Chase slept with his collection. He observed them, studied them, organized them and described them, imagined how they came to be and day-dreamed how he would display them—show them off! Children do the same with you, you know! They see past the scars, wrinkles, fat or bones, gray hairs and dotted complexion. They see a gleam in your eyes, feel acceptance in your smile and a warmth from your countenance. They know little of the pain, wars, mistakes, worries, regrets, failures or successes—your weariness from the tides of life. Your embrace is eternal security. A touch empowers their soul. On your lap sits far more than skin and bones …you hold a life! Hear it breathe. See it move. Feel it pulse. Watch it grow!

Children live in the moment. Yesterday is a pleasant memory. Tomorrow is a -fantasy of fun; but this moment all they know is childlike faith. And the Kingdom lives in such as these. Owning nothing, they possess everything. Totally dependent…totally free!

Don’t let 20 Questions rob you of the moment. Here are a few suggestions:Let your hair down (or put it up, or take off the wig or toupee).

Catch a wave! Go with the flow. Eat a BIG meal, then belch! (Do say, “Excuse me.”)

Walk in the woods, on the beach, up a hill, around the block, through a park, across a bridge. Watch the water pass below—meditate on what it teaches you, then hide it in your heart. Watch snow fall and feel it melt on your tongue. Pick up a sea shell and throw it at a sea gull. Feed a sea gull. Watch a sunset. Read a book to a child or a spouse. Take a long, hot bath or shower—don’t forget to sing! Make a fire…in the heat of summer. Smell a flower—lots of them! Talk to a bird. I know your Baptists, but every now and then, when no one’s looking, take a loved one in your arms…and dance!

Finally, when you’re in a stressful moment at work, try these practical tips:Walk away.

Close your eyes.

Solitude.

Go outside.

Find some water.

Breathe deeply (in-4, hold-4, out-4, rest-4, 2 normal breaths, again) (Deut. 30).

Listen to music and be there.

Look at painting and go there.

At the beginning I asked you if you had lost your Source of Life…? “Do not ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive!”

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Inadequacy

March 14th, 2008

The question of a man’s heart is “Do I have what it takes? Am I enough? Am I adequate for the task?” Feelings of failure often plague most men. Whether it’s the absence of “the blessing” from their father, the regret of poor, critical choices in life, or just the nature of man to find his identity in what he does (his work) rather than who he is (beloved of God), many men never feel they measure up. Married men especially feel the pressure to be adequate at home, able to lead their children and to satisfy their wife’s often unspoken expectations. (Truthfully, many of these expectations are our own–what we think our wives expect.) Although spoken jokingly, men know “Ain’t nobody happy unless momma’s happy.” Children, finances, job security, personal relationships, and ministry opportunities add to the list of reasons to feel ill-equipped for the demands of life.

“If anyone else has a mind to put confidence in the flesh, I far more” the Apostle Paul claimed. In Philippians 3, he backs up his boast with his list of religious accolades. As with Paul, somewhere, someone in our life defined for us what was successful–a dangling carrot–and like a wild donkey, we pursued the immeasurable, illusory goal. Complete this sentence for yourself: “I will be acceptable when…” or “I will know when I have succeeded when…” or even “I will be happy/fulfilled when…” For me it wasn’t so much about achieving my own goals as it was about comparing myself and competing with others (although I would never want to admit that). My measure was people, not a more objective standard. I lived to people and usually fell short of my own expectations, and then blamed others for letting me down and not sharing my vision for…umph…self-fulfillment. (I guess the world is just too self-centered to be thinking about me!) The very people I was supposed to be leading were seemingly in my way. (Well then, which way was I going?!) I remember thinking, “If it weren’t for people, I’d have a great ministry.” Ha! Suggestions were heard as criticism and correction felt like disapproval, condemnation and rejection. People-pleasing made me feel as though I was always leaving, but never arriving. I was chasing the wind. “By your standard of measure, it will be measured to you” (Matt. 7:2).
If I ever did catch the dangling carrot, I, like Paul, would find that “whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ” (Phil. 3:7). Earthly accolades just don’t satisfy. I learned that when I looked to God to fulfill my hopes and dreams, I found that my hopes and dreams did not fulfill me. So from where does fulfillment come? In
another letter, Paul tells us: “Such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who has made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills but the Spirit gives life” (2 Cor. 3:4-6).

The source of fulfillment and satisfaction is Jesus Christ, who makes us adequate by the new covenant, ratified by His blood! God the Father made this covenant in His blood, not dependent on our works, but His. The new covenant is His idea, His plan, His initiative, His sacrifice and His seal of approval. By His Life we are made complete, adequate for every good work! By His stripes we are healed. There is no longer the need to please man or live to people–living from the outside in, allowing what is on the outside of us to define us. Instead, we live to Jesus, finding in Him complete love and acceptance –living from the inside out, allowing Who is on the inside to define us. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God [not trying to gain approval] as a workman who does not need to be ashamed [because it’s His work, not mine], accurately handling the word of truth [not correct Bible study methods, but the correct understanding of the revelation of the mystery of Christ in you]” (2 Tim. 2:15).

As the “Lord’s Supper” reveals, His Life is in you, for you partake of His very Life! Jesus said every disciple must eat His flesh and drink His blood. That’s His Life living in you! Peter, who heard these words directly from the mouth of Jesus, later wrote: “seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence [not mine]. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature…” (2 Pet. 1:3-4). You (the old you) have been crucified with Christ and He has become your very life. Your focus must shift from self to Jesus, from insufficiency to the sufficiency of Christ, from inadequate to “in Christ.” His Life is living and active and is dwelling in you. Christianity is not a new set of better rules or principles to live by, it is the very life of Christ abiding in you. It’s not about what you can do, but what He has done and is currently doing in you, for you and through you now. It’s not who you are, but Who He is in you. The core question of manhood is not answered in your intellect, abilities, or self at all, but in Christ. SO the question is: Are you InAdequate or InChrist? You cannot be both!

Posted in InYou Window |

Ministry Update, Oct. 07

October 31st, 2007

Counseling Sessions: 26  

NEW Board Member: Will Gunter. Will replaces Jim Oliver as a new Board member. He is Jim’s Youth Minister and will bring a needed student focus to InYou.The NEST is now for sale! We will hold it up to the Father and allow Him to have His way. Thy will be done.Return to Peru–100% supplied! I believe this is God’s time for me to return to Peru. PRAY for a demonstration of His Spirit and power! PRAY for provision for the family while I am away.Homes 4 Life–Each week provides individual and group sessions for 18-21 year old boys who have matured out of foster care in NC & SC. This month, Dr. Lyda Simmons and I facilitated 5 group sessions and 6 individual sessions.“Living in the Now.” I’m still slowly writing a book. will need about $5000 to complete this project.Oct. 11–InYou provided Krispy Kreme donuts and I spoke at a Dorman HS FCA Breakfast. Chase & Carson attended with me as I spoke on God’s focus being our JOY in both His endurance on the cross and now our endurance in this race of life. Run for JOY!Oct. 14 & 28–PARENTING TEENS Seminar at Hope Point. We have now grown into a bi-monthly small group. It has been a rich time of fellowship and learning about our identity and how we shape our kids. 

Nov. 2-10– RETURN to PERU to train pastors from several villages outside Chupa, Puno, PERU.Nov. 11, Dec. 2, 16–Hope Point PARENT of TEENS Small Group.

Dec. 5-6– “Taste of Christmas” Turkey Fry and Prisoner Meal.“Taste of Christmas” Turkey Fry and Prisoner Meal.

Prayerfully consider supporting InYou and/or providing opportunities to share the message of “Christ in you.”

 

Posted in Ministry Report |

Family Update, Oct.07

October 31st, 2007

Cooper attended his last Children’s Ministry bonfire this month–a sad milestone for Mom and Dad (boo-hoo)–and is still enjoying the FBC Spart. Children’s choir/mission ministry. He is developing a heart for missions. At a Dorman HS football game, Cooper walked the stands and filled a “rice bowl” with donations for orphans in India. He’s finishing up AYSO soccer, taking piano lessons from Granny.   Carson and Chase both continue to improve their PR’s in cross-country–Carson: 19:29, and Chase: 17:10. Dorman went undefeated in the regular season, won 1st in County (both JV & Varsity; Chase finished 6th overall in the race!) and 1st in Region (Chase finished 8th overall). The state meet is Nov. 3rd.Chase performed 8 shows as Ramdass, an Indian servant, in Spartanburg Youth Theatre’s Little Princess, and competed as Matt, the main character in When Men Wear Skirts, in a school theatre competition in Rock Hill. His and Carson’s D-Groups (discipleship w/FBC) began again for the year and their desire is to “go deeper” into knowing Christ.Kelli turned our back porch into an outdoor living room. Perfect for the beautiful fall weather we’ve enjoyed!

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

“For His Glory”

October 31st, 2007

What do you want? Do you want to have your cake and eat it too? (What does that mean?!) What I mean is do you want the presence and glory of Christ in your life while still holding on to your sin, self, and your own stubborn way? It doesn’t work that way. God is “pro-choice” in that He has permitted freedom of choice; but He is also irreversibly “pro-life” for He is Life! We are free to choose, but we are not free to choose the consequence, “for the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life” (Rom. 6:23). Choose one.On Oct. 21, our pastor, Richard Smith, spoke on the verses which “fill in the blanks” between Hebrews 11:29 & 30: Numbers 13-14 (Listen online: www.hopepoint.org) I saw myself in that faithless gap, in the same downward spiral of those freshly-delivered Israelites. While the Promised Land (just as “the precious promises” of participation in Christ, 2 Pet. 1:3-4) stood before them, they couldn’t get their eyes off the obstacles and themselves:

STAGE 1. “All the people we saw there are great in size” (13:32) 

STAGE 2. “We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes” (13:33)STAGE 3. “All the Israelites grumbled against Moses” (14:2)

STAGE 4. “If only we had died… Wouldn‘t it be better for us to go back …to Egypt” (14:2-4).

That’s how it happens in me. The task or call seems too great; I feel too small; I complain, complain; I stumble backwards and return to start. Faith is required to possess that which is already promised in Christ. In contrast, Joshua & Caleb cried: 

“The land…is exceedingly good… The Lord will lead us…and will give it to us… Only do not rebel…and do not be afraid… because we will swallow them up… Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us.” –Numbers 13:7-9

Although their faith would be realized in possessing the Land, Moses sought a higher promise…the face (the glory) of God! His concern was not that the Israelites wanted to stone him to death, but that if God justly punished His children through death, His name and fame would be tarnished in the eyes of their enemies. Moses sought God’s fame, not his own. (See 14:13-19)Whose glory do you (and I) want? Faith is rewarded with the desire of one’s heart. In the end, Israel got what they wanted: death and separation from their children (compare 14:3 & 28-29). Joshua & Caleb got what they wanted: the land flowing with milk and honey! And Moses got the greatest reward: “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with a friend” (Ex. 33:11). What do you want?

Posted in InYou Window |

MARRIAGE: God’s Cruel Tool

October 24th, 2007

What a month for marriages! It’s very disheartening to watch them “grow apart.” Walls go up to protect what feels threatened, however, the thing protected is what has to be confronted and dealt with! (It’s what God is using the other mate to reveal in you!) Self-life is self-preserving like that. (It’s also self-sustaining and self-destructing!) We cling to the very thing that’s causing our misery. We defend our insanity and if we were to win, what is the prize? Loneliness, rejection, isolation, guilt…more of the same feelings we feared would overtake us, the same feelings we were trying to protect ourselves from in the first place. Ironic.

I still see people reinventing their childhoods, even if it was traumatic and they hated it. Whatever the identity message was they experienced at a feeling level as a child, they continue to live out of in their adult life. They spent their childhood digging the trench they will travel in their whole life. They expect their life to continue its misery. As a result, they create in their mate the very behavior they hate, because they cannot trust what their mate does and says. It doesn’t fit what they expect; it’s not “normal!” They push and push until their mate bends (or cracks) to their will, then they exclaim, “Aha! See!? I knew it!”I get the picture of a lot of marriages being a tug-of-war match. I see two people with their heels trenched into the sand and pulling hard against the “ties that bind.” They are fighting for their self-lives and they are not about to let go. If they lose, they may lose “everything.” Oh yeah? What are they gaining now? What do they get out of holding on to their stubbornness? Blisters, pain, stress, heart-aches and pains! My advice? “Keep pulling and straining and trying to win and see what you risk losing then…Everything!”A young, unmarried couple described it well: “We were playing checkers and we got down to the last two checkers on the board. We were in a stalemate because neither of us wanted to lose to the other. Back and forth we moved the same two checkers and there was nothing else we could do! We were stuck, just like we are now [in our relationship].” “Oh, but there is another option; something you can do,” I said, thumbing through my New Testament in search of a “proof text” form Luke 9:23-24. “Let the other person win?” wife-to-be wisely replied. “Yes!” “If anyone is willing to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow Me. Whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, will find it.”

I envision this couple leaving the counseling session in tears of relief and joy. There is a lift in their spirit. They are holding hands (and it‘s comforting, not clinging). The burden is lifted and their fight is over. The stress is gone because they surrender to The Almighty and there is no more resistance. They see now that their problem was not their problem, only a revelation of the real problem. They now realize that their covenant in marriage was not made between each other, but between each individual and God. They recognize the significance of God’s commandments: Love (for him) and Submit (for her). Love her enough to give up yourself for her! Respect him as you would the Lord Himself, for he IS your head!Listen, the fear of submission to your husband is far greater than the actual surrender. The fear will flee when the will is yielded. And the resistance to loving your wife builds higher walls of self-hatred and isolation than the ones keeping you from her. Choose the smaller wall and love! Jesus is the Way and every other way is not the way. He is the super glue that holds all things together. (Just this week, Kelli had to super glue back together a decoration the boys knocked off a shelf which spelled “FAMILY.” It made me think of this truth.) I believe God is more interested in your losing your self-life in the small battles than your winning the big war on your own.

This is why I have come to believe that God’s primary purpose for marriage on earth is to prepare us for eternity (and there is no marriage in heaven, because marriage isn’t perfect)! It’s method is death! In God’s Kingdom, death to self leads to life in Christ. Yes, marriage is God’s cruel tool to kill you, “so that the life of Christ might be manifested in your mortal body!” (2 Cor. 4:11). The sooner your die to self, the quicker you let the cruel Roman cross have it’s way with you, the sooner Jesus will be made known to and through you. Remember, the genius of the Roman cross was that the strongest man died the longest death. Jesus gave up His spirit without seeking to save Himself.Hannah Whitall Smith says nothing comes to us except through the permissible hand of God. The “all things” of Romans 8:28 means ALL things.

Whatever has brought your marriage to where it is right now, has been permitted to bring you to Christ! Yield to it and see. Amen!

Posted in InYou Window |

Ministry Calendar

October 24th, 2007

“Ministry Update”

Counseling Sessions: 26

The NEST has been sub-leased to a group of 7 men from GA. PTL!

has been sub-leased to a group of 7 men from GA. PTL!Return to Peru–I sent a letter out this month asking for $1900 in support for this trip. I believe this is God’s time for me to return to Peru. PRAY!

I sent a letter out this month asking for $1900 in support for this trip. I believe this is God’s time for me to return to Peru. PRAY!So far, $400 has come in.

Homes 4 Life is a home for 18-21 year old boys who have matured out of foster care in NC & SC. Each week InYou provides individual and group sessions. This month, Dr. Lyda Simmons and I facilitated 3 group sessions and 6 individual sessions.

is a home for 18-21 year old boys who have matured out of foster care in NC & SC. Each week provides individual and group sessions. This month, Dr. Lyda Simmons and I facilitated group sessions and individual sessions.“Living in the Now.” I’m still writing a book which should be ready by year’s end. InYou will need about $5000 to complete this project.

I’m still writing a book which should be ready by year’s end. InYou will need about $5000 to complete this project.Sept. 2–I taught my parents’ Sunday School class at FBC, Columbia, focusing on Isaiah 48-49. My message centered on 48:11, where God says He will not share His glory.

I taught my parents’ Sunday School class at FBC, Columbia, focusing on Isaiah 48-49. My message centered on 48:11, where God says He will not share His glory. Sept. 16–I taught my grandma’s Bible Class at FBC, Columbia. I also began Fall PARENT Meetings for Hope Point Comm. in our home.

I taught my grandma’s Bible Class at FBC, Columbia. I also began Fall PARENT Meetings for Hope Point Comm. in our home.Sept. 20– “Unwind, Unmask, Unbelievable!” Spart. Co. Youth Ministers’ Lunch and Fellowship in our home. Will Gunter shared his testimony about giving up tobacco and resting in Christ. He asked me to…

– “Unwind, Unmask, Unbelievable!” Spart. Co. Youth Ministers’ Lunch and Fellowship in our home. Will Gunter shared his testimony about giving up tobacco and resting in Christ. He asked me to…Sept. 28– Share “How Christ Grows InYou” with Bethlehem Bapt. Youth Workers in our home.

– Share “How Christ Grows InYou” with Bethlehem Bapt. Youth Workers in our home. Sept. 30–Hope Point PARENT Mtg.

Hope Point PARENT Mtg.Oct. 11–Dorman HS FCA Breakfast. Speak and feed a lot of teens… including Chase!

Dorman HS FCA Breakfast. Speak and feed a lot of teens… including Chase!Oct. 14–PARENT Mtg. at Oak Brook Prep.

PARENT Mtg. at Oak Brook Prep.Nov. 2-10– RETURN to PERU to train pastors from several villages outside Chupa, Peru. STILL NEED $1500.Dec. 2–Hope Point PARENT Mtg.

Hope Point PARENT Mtg.

 

Prayerfully consider supporting InYou and/or providing opportunities to share the message of “Christ in you.”

has been sub-leased to a group of 7 men from GA. PTL!I sent a letter out this month asking for $1900 in support for this trip. I believe this is God’s time for me to return to Peru. PRAY!is a home for 18-21 year old boys who have matured out of foster care in NC & SC. Each week provides individual and group sessions. This month, Dr. Lyda Simmons and I facilitated group sessions and individual sessions.I’m still writing a book which should be ready by year’s end. InYou will need about $5000 to complete this project.I taught my parents’ Sunday School class at FBC, Columbia, focusing on Isaiah 48-49. My message centered on 48:11, where God says He will not share His glory. I taught my grandma’s Bible Class at FBC, Columbia. I also began Fall PARENT Meetings for Hope Point Comm. in our home.– “Unwind, Unmask, Unbelievable!” Spart. Co. Youth Ministers’ Lunch and Fellowship in our home. Will Gunter shared his testimony about giving up tobacco and resting in Christ. He asked me to…– Share “How Christ Grows InYou” with Bethlehem Bapt. Youth Workers in our home. Hope Point PARENT Mtg.Dorman HS FCA Breakfast. Speak and feed a lot of teens… including Chase!PARENT Mtg. at Oak Brook Prep.to train pastors from several villages outside Chupa, Peru. Hope Point PARENT Mtg.

Posted in Ministry Report |

Family Update, September 2007

October 24th, 2007

Cooper is playing soccer, taking piano lessons from Granny and enjoying the FBC Spart. Children’s choir ministry.

is playing soccer, taking piano lessons from Granny and enjoying the FBC Spart. Children’s choir ministry.Carson and Chase both ran PRs (personal records) in the Milliken “Eye Opener” (an annual 5K race for some of the best high school and college teams in SC & NC). Carson: 20:45, and Chase: 18:00. Chase later PR’d again in the Coach’s Classic in Columbia with 17:52. So far, Dorman is undefeated in regional meets. (I also PR’d in a 5K in Columbia with 19:47 and won $50 cash for 1st in Master’s Div.! Chase won 1st in the whole race and Carson 1st in his age division! I am registered for my first marathon in Myrtle Beach, 2/16/08, and hope to qualify for Boston Marathon.)

and both ran PRs (personal records) in the Milliken “Eye Opener” (an annual 5K race for some of the best high school and college teams in SC & NC). Carson: 20:45, and Chase: 18:00. Chase later PR’d again in the Coach’s Classic in Columbia with 17:52. So far, Dorman is undefeated in regional meets. (I also PR’d in a 5K in Columbia with 19:47 and won $50 cash for 1 in Master’s Div.! Chase won 1 in the whole race and Carson 1 in his age division! I am registered for my first marathon in Myrtle Beach, 2/16/08, and hope to qualify for Boston Marathon.)Chase has been cast as Ramdass, an Indian servant, in Spartanburg Youth Theatre’s Little Princess, and is also enjoying theatre in school. His and Carson’s D-Groups (discipleship w/FBC) began again for the year and their desire is to “go deeper” into knowing Christ.

Kelli says her 4th grade class has lots of personality! She was out late several nights this month recording a CD with the band at Hope Point.

says her 4 grade class has lots of personality! She was out late several nights this month recording a CD with the band at Hope Point.

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

“Lessons Learned”

October 24th, 2007

“Wouldn’t it look weird if you were kneeling in a room, moving your hand around in little circles and poking at the air like a mini-jackhammer?” I asked Doug. He just laughed. He knew what I was inferring. We had been painting wrought iron gates with 1” brushes for five hours, focusing on the tedious task before us and saying very little to one another. What if we were making all the same movements but without paint, brushes or iron gates? (Weird thought.)

Sometimes life feels that way. Like you’re going through the motions but there is nothing to show for it. Meaningless. If there were no progress, no measurable sign of accomplishment, no purpose for the process, then the task would feel pointless. Do you ever feel that way? It makes me want to change what I’m doing, doubt what I’ve done and wonder what I’m supposed to do. It feels like time is standing still and running out all at the same time. It feels like a waste of time! “Carson, would you ever sprint full speed, jump as high as you can and land on the ground chest-first like a Superman?” He smiled. (I think he might.) “Yet we had just watched a grown man on that football field do it.” What makes people do that? The ball? The game? The crowd? I believe it has something to do with purpose. It’s not what we do, but why we do it that makes our doing meaningful.It’s possible to loose the vision for why we do what we do. Faith sees the purpose in the process when there is no visible progress, no measurable sign of accomplishment: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. [What’s the purpose?] For those He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son…” (Rom. 8:28-29). JESUS is the glory of God manifested in us! This is why I “labor until Christ is formed in you” (Gal. 4:19).

“Gutsy Quotable”“I spend my days in the midst of others’ utter hopelessness, an endless stream of failures and fighting and frustration, which seeks out and finds every hiding, lingering, rotting, stinking ounce of my life’s bitter hopelessness and brings it right to the surface…And when I bring my whole nasty self to the party day after day, picking people up off the streets, beaten and bloodied, chaining them to my radiator, and loving them back to life with wild, untamable enthusiasm, I get to go to a lot of weddings when the time is just right, and I feel very alive.” –Unknown  

 

Posted in InYou Window |

The Wolfe Pak … (Dec. 2006)

January 18th, 2007

What a glorious kick off to the season as Cooper had the privilege of singing a solo at FBC, Spartanburg, backed up by a full orchestra! It was as beautiful as the words: “If You had come on a big white horse, so mighty and so strong, I might have been afraid to talk to you; afraid that I’d say something wrong. But when you came the way you did to such a simple place, You let us see an awesome God with a sweet and tender face. And You wrapped Your power in sweet simplicity. Jesus I thank, You for coming as a child like me!” (I’m crying again!)

Carson and Chase are wrestling again and looking really buff with the strenuous workouts.

Chase did great in “Narnia” in Little Theatre as Mr. Tumnus (the goatman) the weekend of Dec. 1-3. The cast party went well again as we hosted over 60 kids in our home!

Kelli, Carson and Cooper traveled with Granny and Gramps to Mountain Home, AR, while Chase and stayed home to work and attend wrestling practice.

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

MINISTRY REPORT, Dec. 2006:

January 18th, 2007

Scott is heading to Chupa, Peru, Jan. 19-27! About $2000 is needed for the trip expenses (shots, materials, food, etc.) and already nearly $1600 has been given! Joe Burnett, Moe Mundy and I will be teaching new pastors and believers among the Quechua People about 12,000 feet in the Andes Mountains! If you would like a journal from the trip just send me an e-mail. If God puts it on your heart, you may send a donation to INYOU MINISTRIES, P.O. Box 998, Roebuck, SC 29376 or have your VISA or MASTERCARD charged with a tax-deductible contribution.
• CHECK OUT the NEW WEBSITE: www.inyou.org.
• CHECK OUT THE NEW WEB- Radio Broadcasts. Listen to “Living in the NOW!”
Go here for an updated schedule regularly: http://www.live365.com/stations/gracewalk/schedule
A daily program at 11:30 am (Eastern time zone) is beginning, January 2007!
• POD-cast is coming. Soon you will be able to subscribe to a monthly or weekly MP3 message. What a tool for personal growth, sharing the message with a friend or promoting the ministry and message of “Christ in you.”
• We need your E-MAIL ADDRESS! Please help us save time and money by simply sending me an e-mail!
scott@inyou.org In the future, this newsletter can be automatically sent to you via e-mail each time it is
updated. An archive of past INYOU WINDOWS will be available to review online.
• Two friends are still with us for now, but soon “THE NEST” will available for an individual or family to stay. Those who would live in “The Nest” will pay for all utilities, taxes and insurance, which helps to provide for the ministry expenses. Pray with us about the next Nest host(s).
• PRAY!!! For more speaking engagements and the writing of curricula and conference materials. I am currently working on youth materials and a 30-Day Study to help men move from where they are to who they are in Christ. I may be working with an INYOU INVESTORS on some materials for Peru.

DECEMBER
3—Begin monthly Parent’s meeting for Hope Point Comm. In our home.
6 “A Taste of Christmas” Dinner for 150 inmates at Tyger River Correctional. Hope Point Community Church has taken on this task annually now as we enjoy much fellowship and the spirit of giving to prisoners. We prepared 20 fried turkeys (about 240 lbs.), 70 lbs. of mashed potatoes, 50 lbs. of green beans, 40 lbs. of corn, 40 lbs. of macaroni & cheese, gravy, cranberry sauce, salad, tea and desserts.

Posted in Ministry Report |

INYOU WINDOW, December, 2006: “It’s Really Just Jesus”

January 18th, 2007

I find the study of people and problems (or “issues”) fascinating. I enjoy the discoveries in the “self life.” It’s a joy to meet with those who have repeating, negative patterns in their lives and then, during a discipleship-counsel session, watch the lights turn on for them. Many times, the simple recognition of a root cause “unplugs” its negative effect. It’s not that their problem goes away immediately, but their perspective changes and they are able to see the problem in proper context. Their problem is no longer overwhelming and can now be “managed” appropriately. It’s the laying aside of another “encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles” (Heb. 12:3).

HOWEVER, this is of secondary importance in Christian counsel; it is not the goal! “What?!” you say. That’s right. Examining the “self life” (“the flesh”) is like performing an autopsy on a corpse. You may learn a good bit about the corpse’s past, but you come away smelling like one—and you still haven’t produced any life! Knowing why and how you got where you are doesn’t provide the resource you need to carry you forward. At best, you may learn what not to do, but what is going to move you out of the insanity (doing the same thing expecting a different result)? Fixing the problem doesn’t necessarily fix you!

The truth is we need problems to keep us viewing ourselves rightly, “soberly” “not more highly than we ought” I’ve often thought of writing a devotion entitled “Saved by Sin!” If it were not for my known sinfulness, I would have no need of Christ! I believe my secret sins and rebellious acts have done more to evangelize me than my mother’s Bible stories, memory verses, Bible College or Seminary! I am thankful for my weaknesses, occasional feelings of emptiness, awareness of pride, emotional neediness and continuous obsessions on self. They all work together to drive me back to Jesus, my Salvation! Of course, I wouldn’t even be able to see my issues if it were not for the work of the Holy Spirit: convicting, convincing and leading me into all truth.

The real remedy is found in Heb. 12:1: “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith” “He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6). The primary goal of Christ-centered counsel is leading people to experience Jesus in the moment. It’s simply witnessing to the inner workings of the Holy Spirit, who is using “all things” to bring the disciple into Christ. For the believer, it is simply turning our eyes to the One who has overcome the world and Who invites us to “take heart” in Him! “This is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith (1 Jn. 5:4). One moment in the presence of Jesus transforms our perspective (See Ps. 73), revealing the futility of our flesh and instantaneously wooing us to rest in Him, believing, satisfying our deepest longings, completing us in Christ and “resourcing” us with “everything pertaining to life and godliness in Christ Jesus” (2 Pet. 1:3).

In Him, and in the NOW, I can lay aside fear, anxiety, worry, doubt, panic, control, inadequacy, inferiority, intimidation, resentment, bitterness, obsession, condemnation, trying harder, self-condemnation, self –obsession, the pain of the past, stress, anger, slander, jealousy, etc., etc., etc… In any moment, I can pick them up again as well, but having been with Christ, and now abiding in Him, I recognize that what I invite in I can also invite out again. “Greater is He who is in you than he that is in the world” (1 Jn. 4:4).

It’s really just Jesus!

Posted in InYou Window |

Wolfe Pak, November 2006

December 6th, 2006

The Wolfe Pak …

Cooper finished his first AYSO soccer season in second place. He played well in two Tournaments in Spartanburg, and in Charlotte, NC. He and Kelli plan to sing at the school’s Santa breakfast, and Cooper will also sing with his school downtown at “Dicken’s of a Christmas” and with the FBC children’s choir.

Carson is wrestling now. He’s also been buying and selling knives to his friends and loves it.

Chase begins “Narnia” in Little Theatre as Mr. Tumnus (the goatman) this weekend (Dec. 1-3).

Kelli enjoyed a weekend at the beach with two good teacher friends. She caught up on some much needed rest!

The whole family really enjoyed Thanksgiving with Kelli’s parents, Scott’s Grandmother, parents and two sisters (with their families). The next day we went to Sugar Plum Tree Farm outside Spruce Pine, NC, for a fun day of cutting down our own Christmas tree. Gene and Lyda went with us as well as our friends the Robinson’s.

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

November 2006

December 6th, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT:
As year-end approaches, it’s time for non-profits to plug last-minute giving. 1 Corinthians 9:14 simply says, “So also the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living from the gospel.”
So please joyfully give as God puts us on your hearts. We need 195 more INYOU INVESTORS this year. INYOU INVESTORS give$20 per month for 10 months of the year. INYOU INVESTORS receive a book of their choice, t-shirt and monthly updates. INYOU INVESTORS can send a check to P.O. Box 998, Roebuck, Sc 29376 or have their VISA or MASTERCARD charged with their tax-deductible monthly contribution. E-mail or call Scott at 864.706.5652 to set it up.
• CHECK OUT the NEW WEBSITE: www.inyou.org.
• CHECK OUT THE NEW WEB- Radio Broadcasts. Go here for an updated schedule regularly. We may be moving to a daily program soon: http://www.live365.com/stations/gracewalk/schedule
• POD-cast is coming. Soon you will be able to subscribe to a monthly or weekly MP3 message. What a tool for personal growth, sharing the message with a friend or promoting the ministry and message of “Christ in you.”
• We need your E-MAIL ADDRESS! Please help us save time and money by simply sending me an e-mail!
scott@inyou.org In the future, this newsletter can be automatically sent to you via e-mail each time it is updated. An archive of past INYOU WINDOWS will be available to review online.
• NEW LOGO for InYou Ministries. (See attached file.)
• “THE NEST” is open for business and available for an individual or family to “rent.” Those who would live in “The Nest” will pay for all utilities, taxes and insurance, which helps to provide for the ministry expenses. Pray with us about the next Nest host(s).
• PRAY!!! For more speaking engagements and the writing of curricula and conference materials. I am currently working on youth materials and a 30-Day Study to help men move from where they are to who they are in Christ. I may be working with an INYOU INVESTORS on some materials for Peru.

NOVEMBER:
November has been a “slow” month for “event ministry,” but a fulfilling one for individual discipleship:
• Counseling Sessions this month: 25! Dr. Lyda Simmons: 1. Dr. Carolyn Cole: 1.
• I’ve been on the phone almost daily with Dave Lesniak about connecting with Grace Walk Radio. Check it out: www.gracewalk.org We are currently recording a regular program called “Living in the NOW.” It is now playing on Tuesdays at 12:30 am and 10:30 am, and Thursdays at 4:30 pm Eastern Time.
• The boys and I attended Spart. Comm. Church’s 10th anniversary with my family. I encountered spontaneous, “God-ordained” visits with several people—even prayed with a lady about her fears, etc. Also, met SC’s Governor, Mark Sanford.
• I’ve had several rich conversations with counselees and youth pastors by phone concerning personal and ministry issues.
• Hope Point Youth group meeting at our house each Sunday at 6:00 pm.
• College Bible Study in our home Sunday nights at 7:30 pm.

DECEMBER
6 “A Taste of Christmas” Dinner for 150 inmates at Tyger River Correctional. Hope Point Community Church has taken on the task annually as we enjoy much fellowship and the spirit of giving to prisoners.

Posted in Ministry Report |

November 2006

December 6th, 2006

INYOU WINDOW, November, 2006: “Who Are You…Really?”

I just had a conversation with a guy in our community whose reputation is being plowed under. He is grieving the loss of his pristine “friendly image” and experiences a gnawing disappointment with Christians he thought were his friends. His thoughts and emotions are forced to filter a constant barrage of messages all aimed at discouraging him from accomplishing what God has called him to. At times, even his choices of where to go are influenced by who will see him and how he will face their criticism.

“You’re ‘living to people’,” I told him. (We “live to people” when other’s words and behavior affect our words and behavior. At that point we surrender our control to them and they can lead us wherever they wish.) “What they say may be lies or it may be true, but what’s the truth?” He perked up. He knows the truth. Not only has he been in ministry most of his life, but also, the truth written in Scripture is also written in his heart, and in that moment there was agreement. “Now hide that in your heart!”

When our heart and our head disagree, there is disunity within (“emotional dis-integration”). Our first reaction is usually to figure it out, redouble our efforts, look inward, fix our circumstances, control others, “get over it,” etc., but the only answer to this “broken heart” is faith—a response of the spirit to truth and a surrender of the soul to rest in Truth (Jesus). “Your reputation is being tilled underground like refuse,” I told him, “but guess who’s driving the tractor? Jesus! Your past reputation (your outer life, your “false self”) will become fertilizer. Just wait until you taste the fruit that comes out of it!” (See Phil. 3:4-14)

We’ve got to start discipling believers from their emotions! I’ve been doing it now for eight years and I have seen such genuine fruit come from helping believers get “gut-ugly honest” about where they are on their journey. “You will never leave where you are until you admit where you are. God already knows, so who are you fooling with all the masks?!” People need more situation education over information education! We don’t add to Christians’ lives through education anyways, we only witness to what they already possess, but have forgotten or gotten lost to or have been robbed of in their situation…”in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they may not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.” Knowing more is not the answer; knowing Christ and who you are in Him is!

Too many people (myself included much of the time) are living in the past or the future and missing their moments of abiding, not experiencing and expressing Jesus in the NOW! As far as the battle is concerned, it’s all about the living in the truth. “or though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ…” (2 Cor. 10:3-5). The “flaming arrows” of the enemy are aimed at your identity—who you are, really. If you don’t know who you are in Christ, it’s only a matter of moments before you go down burning. Look to Jesus!

NOTE: Hannah Sobeski went home to the arms of Jesus on Thursday, Nov. 9. She is completely healed! Her youth discipleship group from FBC, Spart., sang her through Heaven’s gates. God’s presence and nearness has been carrying the family through. Their testimony is fantastic. Read about her at www.caringbridge.org, then type in “hannahsobeski”. I was able to be present on the Dorman Freshman Campus the next day to pray and read Scripture with the student council. The principal, several faculty and over 300 students gathered to pray for the Sobeski’s during lunch.

Posted in InYou Window |

INYOU WINDOW, October, 2006: “What God Has Done: A Journal”

October 31st, 2006

In July, Jason Loveless called about an opportunity for a Men’s retreat in Texas. Within a day God had given me a message even before I was officially asked to be the speaker: “How God Sees a Man, How God Feeds a Man, How God Leads a Man.” A few days later, He gave me a song about the beatitudes and brokenness (listen to the attachment as captured LIVE at the men’s retreat). The message outlines the journey I’ve been on for three months now. I decided to just journal this month and account for God’s amazing work…WOW!

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

WolfePak, October 2006

October 31st, 2006

The Wolfe Pak …

Cooper’s AYSO soccer team is in first place. Tournaments begin this weekend in Spartanburg, and next in Charlotte, NC. He didn’t get a part in “Narnia” (Little Theatre) so he’s been busy writing his own play…with many characters, scene changes, etc. It’s pretty amazing actually.

Read More »

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

Ministry Report, October 2006

October 31st, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT:

  • NEW WEBSITE under construction. Still www.inyou.org.
  • HELP! Please consider registering your Food Lion MVP card with INYOU MINISTRIES. An organization must have at least 25 MVP cards linked in order to participate. In a few weeks, go to www.foodlion.com, then to “in the community, fundraising.” The paperwork has not been completed just yet.
  • “THE NEST” is open for business and available for an individual or family to “rent.” Those who would live in “The Nest” will pay for all utilities, taxes and insurance, which helps to provide for the ministry expenses. Pray with us about the next Nest host(s).
  • Counseling Sessions this month: 8.

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

INYOU WINDOW, September, 2006: “How God Leads Me.”

September 1st, 2006

“For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Rom. 8:14).
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (Jn. 10:27).

God leads me by His Spirit. The believer does hear the voice of Jesus; the believer is known by Jesus; the believer follows Jesus. That’s how God leads me! God takes the initiative in this love relationship. He calls me by name and I follow. If I have trouble hearing God, I have trouble at the heart of my Christian experience!

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

Ministry Report, September 2006

September 1st, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT

  • HELP! Please consider registering your Food Lion MVP card with INYOU MINISTIRES. An organization must have at least 25 MVP cards linked in order to participate. Go to www.foodlion.com, then to “in the community, fundraising.”
  • “THE NEST” is open for business! It was awesome seeing this long-standing vision come to fruition. Since we moved out of the old farmhouse, it has been filled with someone in need of a temporary home. In November it will become available again. Those who have lived in “The Nest” have paid for all utilities, taxes and insurance, which has helped to provide for the ministry expenses. Pray with us about the next Nest host(s).
  • This month we pulled up the carpet in the Great Room and discovered 3” tongue-and-grove pine floors! The Great Room has been painted, stained, cleaned, a window repaired, and an interior door added to separate it from the rest of the house. Also, old gutters were removed, the exterior fascia painted and the fence painted.
  • College Bible Study has been deep and enriching this past month. We meet Sunday nights at 7:30 pm.
  • INYOU MINISTRIES changed phone companies to a web-based service called SunRocket. It’s $200 per year with unlimited local and long distance calling. It should save the ministry $750+ per year over Bellsouth!
  • Counseling Sessions this month: 17. (Dr. Lyda Simmons: 2)

    Read More »

Posted in Ministry Report |

WolfePak, September 2006

September 1st, 2006

The Wolfe Pak …

On Sept. 2, our family was enjoying the day with my (Scott’s) parents and all five of my siblings and their families at my brother’s wife’s aunt’s new lake house on Lake Wateree, when Rigba’s (Scott’s brother) wife, Courtney, received word that her sister had attempted suicide. Courtney immediately left with her aunt to drive to Spartanburg where they discovered that a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head had ended Meredith’s life. We attended the funeral that week and ask you to pray for Courtney and her family during this difficult time.

Read More »

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

The Wolfe Pak, August 2006

August 1st, 2006

The Wolfe Pak …
Carson spent his last week of summer at Camp Voyager w/ FBC, Spartanburg. He had a blast with friends and camp counselors (who told me they were “in love” with him)! He literally got off the bus from camp, ate, then got back on a bus to attend Discipleship Weekend with Chase and nearly 400 teens from FBC. They are going through Experiencing God this fall.

Read More »

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

August 2006 Calendar

August 1st, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT

  • TWO T-shirts are available!
    1. “Complete!” (Col. 1:28) are chocolate brown with orange writing on the front. “Done!” (Rev. 21:6) are bright yellow with black writing on the front. Both have a new INYOU logo on the back advertising the website.
    2. They are free to INYOU INVESTORS and $10 otherwise.
  • Counseling Sessions this month: 14. (Dr. Lyda Simmons: 4)

AUGUST

  • 27— I spoke at a 5-church joint, youth-led service in the Mayo, SC, area. “Are you so earthly minded, you’re no heavenly good?” was my question, based on Col. 3:1-4. Life or death is determined by your focus.

SEPTEMBER

  • 17—“Staying In touch with your teen’s heart”, 5:00-6:30 pm, St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, Spartanburg, SC.
  • 30— “THE NEST” Open House (6:00-8:30 pm) and “Sweet Fellowship” (7:30 pm). Drop in for a ministry house tour and stay for coffee and dessert.

OCTOBER

  • 20-22—Men’s Retreat at Pine Cove Camp in Tyler, TX.

Posted in Calendar |

INYOU WINDOW, August, 2006: “How God Feeds Me.”

August 1st, 2006

“Open your mouth wide and I will fill it” (Ps. 81:10).

When God is ready to feed me, humble pie and the Beatitudes are almost always on the menu!
“I am broken, I am mourning, I surrender, I am hungry, Have mercy, Purify me, Peace abiding, in Your Kingdom, Be glorified revealing Christ in me.” These are the words of a chorus God sang through my heart this month (based on Matt. 5:3-9). They encompass the requirements for a heart ready to receive from Him; perhaps they are even the evidence of Jesus pressing in on mortal flesh. Without the recognition of personal bankruptcy and depravity there will not be a desperate thirst and hunger for the life God wants to give; there will not be a mouth wide open.

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

Ministry Report, July 2006

July 1st, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT:

  • “THE NEST!” continues to improve. We look forward to sharing it with you in September for the “Sweet Fellowship” and Open House.
  • TWO T-shirts are available! 1) “Complete!” (Col. 1:28) are chocolate brown with orange writing on the front. “Done!” (Rev. 21:6) are bright yellow with black writing on the front. Both have a new INYOU logo on the back advertising the website. 2) They are free to INYOU INVESTORS and $10 otherwise.
  • Counseling Sessions this month: 5. (Dr. Lyda Simmons: 2)

Read More »

Posted in Ministry Report |

INYOU WINDOW, July, 2006: “How God sees me.”

July 1st, 2006

How does God see me? Does He see me as I see myself? Does He judge me based on my choices, behavior or performance, or by my inner thoughts and feelings, or by my past experiences and cultural upbringing? I tend to spend a lot of mental energy thinking about myself, being analytical, critical, questioning, doubting, guilt-tripping, wondering, thinking and planning how to change myself (and my ministry) to be more “marketable”, appealing, acceptable, desirable. This is exhausting, demoralizing and down-right depressing most of the time! So how does God see me?

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

January 2006 Calendar

January 1st, 2006

MINISTRY REPORT
THANKS—to Holly Banke for helping INYOU with year-end taxes. What a relief!

NEW Ministry on Saturday Nights—For several years I have envisioned an evening of in-depth discipleship for those wanting to “go deeper” in to themselves and the truths of Scripture in regards to “the mystery of Christ INYOU” (Col. 1-27-28). That night began Saturday, January 28, 7:00-8:30 pm at our new house. (Eventually it will move to the ministry house.) This year we will be unveiling 12 dynamic truths the believer already possesses in Christ.
NEW Counseling Help—Having Kelli’s mother, Dr. Lyda Simmons, has been an added blessing for INYOU MINISTRIES. She recently retired from her practice as a Psychologist/Therapist and has really enhanced the ministry both as a counselor for several people and a sounding board for me.

JANUARY:

  • Counseling appointments in Jan.: 22. (plus Dr. Lyda Simmons: 3)
  • [12—Zach Herrin begins as youth minister for a church in Boerne, TX (near San Antonio) after a trip to Costa Rico with Michael Wells.]
  • 16 & 30—Scott met with youth ministers from the Spartanburg County Baptist Network to begin planning a “mission celebration” event in March.
  • 19—Scott provided a Krispy Kreme donut breakfast for about 60 Dorman High School FCA students and spoke on “Grace and Truth Are Married.” Also, Scott attended a businessmen’s luncheon at the Public Library where one of Wal-Mart’s original 11 leaders spoke on Kingdom building principles in business.
  • 25—Scott met with a writer and photographer from the Spartanburg Herald Journal to begin work on an article about INYOU MINISTRIES. Pray for Debra and God’s direction for the article in the Religion section.
  • 28— 12 people attended the “Experiencing and expressing Jesus in the Now” discipleship conference in our home. Mike Rogers sang a song he wrote called “Prayer of a Desperate Man” and Scott spoke on being “COMPLETE” in Christ.

FEBRUARY:

  • 12—Family Ski Day at the Colombo’s in Ashville, NC!
  • 25—“Experiencing & Expressing Jesus in the Now” discipleship conference in our home, 7:00-8:30 pm.
  • 26—Preach at Tyger River Correctional and possible a church in Cross Anchor, SC, for Pastor Perrin Powell (if Stephanie has her baby that week!!)
  • MARCH
  • 1—Begin a five-week “Parenting Your Teenager” series on Wednesday nights at The Hanger, FBC, Spartanburg. TOPIC: Boundaries with teens. Dr. Lyda Simmons will lead one week, March 15. All invited!
  • 15—Overnight trip to Charleston, SC, with Chase and the 8th graders from Gable MS.
  • 18—“Mission Celebration” for the youth of Spartanburg County (94 churches), Dorman Track & Field, 2:00-6:00 pm. Five NAMB and IMB missionaries will speak as teens play outdoor “survivor” games, eat foreign foods and learn about life as a missionary in America and abroad.
  • 25—“Experiencing & Expressing Jesus in the Now” discipleship conference in our home, 7:00-8:30 pm.

JULY

  • 24-28—Boy’s 2nd-6th grade “WARRIOR WEEK” in Denton, TX. The boys and I will help INYOU INVESTOR, Jason Loveless, with a camp he has designed to teach boys to be men in Christ.

Posted in Calendar |

INYOU WINDOW, January 2006: “Jesus in the NOW” Series

January 1st, 2006

INYOU WINDOW, January, 2006: “Jesus in the NOW” Series Intro.
from Jan. 28 “Jesus in the NOW” Discipleship Conference

“Jesus in the NOW” is about the Eternal One dwelling INYOU. I believe the eternal life that Jesus promises (Jn. 17:3) is not so much about a quantity of time somewhere out there in the future (in heaven after you die) as it is a quality of life in the here and now—an altogether different kind of life! A life that is not out of reach for even the very weakest of believers; a life that is only available in the moment—what I call “living in the now”; a life that is found “in Him” who is eternal, a life that is lived by faith and not of ourselves, a life that is literally HIS life living in you and you living in Him; therefore, a life you cannot live apart from Him “for He is your life” (Deut. 30:20, Col. 3:3); a life I believe Jesus was pointing us to when He said, “If you abide in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit for apart from Me you can do nothing!”(Jn. 15:5) and “whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (3:16).

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |

WolfePak, January 2006

January 1st, 2006

The Wolfe Pak …
New Year’s Day was a bit lazy for us, but it came nonetheless. We really have enjoyed finally getting to enjoy the new house as a family. I have been painting the house both inside and out, but the majority of the construction is complete. The boys and I enjoyed a day with Gene and Lyda attending the 225 year anniversary of the Battle of Cowpens. There was a live reenactment of the battle that turned the momentum of the Revotionary War in the South. It’s always an eiry feeling watching the past look so real as men, women and children dressed in 18th century clothing.

Read More »

Posted in Wolfe Family Update |

INYOU WINDOW, April 2002: “Message in a Bottle”

December 31st, 1969

There is a message from God to you in your bottle. Your bottle is your heart. Have you taken out the cork and opened your bottle to see what the message says? I have found (especially through counseling defeated believers) that your bottle can be corked with “ought” and “should” (and their counterparts: “ought not” and “shouldn’t”). How can you read the message from God when you are all “bottled up?” Get the cork out! Quit telling yourself what you should and shouldn’t feel?! Emotions are not right or wrong. You have my permission to feel… completely, deeply, with tears, with anger. Here, try this:

Read More »

Posted in InYou Window |