Pastor Sheryll Ashmore discusses "Where Am I and Why?" in this Vision Sunday message.
Vision Sunday - Where Am I and Why?
Pastor Sheryll Ashmore
Sunday, November 1, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Where Am I and Why?
In life, in relationships (with God and others), on the job, in my church
Vision Sunday-November 2009-Year coming to a close-Let’s look at our ministry model and set some goals for the remainder of 2009 and next year.
Ready to grow? If not, why? How do you feel when you hear the challenge to grow? This reveals the condition of our hearts.
Truth is: you’ve been called to greatness! God intends for us to lead a great life.
* Luke 7:28 “I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is.”
* John 14:12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.”
Why does God want us to live great lives?
* Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you must be a servant.” Life is not supposed to happen to us-we are supposed to be intentional and make the most of our life by serving others on purpose.
- His greatest desire is for us to live a life that looks beyond ourselves to see the needs and the hurts of others. This means we must continue to mature in our Christian walk. Left to our own thoughts, this does not come naturally. It happens as we allow His love to live in and through us.
Characteristics and excuses for where we are:
- I’ve been hurt (we forget we have also hurt others and hope and expect that they will forgive and move one) So much easier to focus on the times when we’ve been hurt, rather than those times we’ve done the hurting.
- I don’t have time. (grow and mature right where you are-simply make the most effective use of your life-get intentional about being the best coach ever in your home, on the job, doing what you are already doing at church)
Our reaction to life defines us: Those things or people that anger us, make us afraid control us. Others are watching to see if we live out what we say we believe.
- What comes out of our mouth in tough situations? The way you talk gives you away.
- Where was I this time last year? Have I shrunk, stayed the same, grown? Even if I identified myself as a coach last year, I should continue to grow and mature.
The Stadium Scenario
1.) Spectator: person who watches event
What’s in it for me?
Hope I get my money’s worth.
Judgmental
Critical
Notice things need to be done and wonder who will do it-no personal investment
Do I commit or not?
Examples: They do this or that. What do you do about this? They could have done that better. I could do better than them.
I stay here because:
I just can’t make a decision
I’m afraid I don’t have what it takes
* Luke 17:20 NKJV-“The kingdom of God does not come with observation…”
2.) Fan: person enthusiastic about an interest
I do get my money’s worth
I like it
I see things that need to be done or could be done better, but I’m pretty happy watching others do it.
I do cheer others on
Examples: Rah! Rah! Rah! You can do it. You do the work and I’ll cheer you on.
Look at how great our children’s ministry is-they do such a great job.
I stay here because:
I’m having a blast. I’m good at cheering others on. They need me to motivate them. It doesn’t really require much of me.
* Mark 9:40 NLT-“Anyone who is not against is for us.” Spectators and fans are “for us” people. Players and Coaches are “with us” folks.
3.) Player: a person who takes part
I am just not happy watching others make it happen
I am more invested and really want to participate in the victory
It’s important to me that the team performs well and we get the victory
Examples: We can do it. Hey-I’ll help you with that.
Did you notice we need_________? What should be done about that?
I stay here because:
If I go any further, I’m all in. Am I ready for that?
I’m doing great right where I am, why do I need anything more?
I’m really good at what I do. Wouldn’t it be better if I continue doing it?
* Matthew 5:1-2-Message-“When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions.”
4.) Coach: a person who instructs and aligns
It’s important to me that others find their place on the team
I look at the overall game plan and am no longer focused on just “my” area
I notice when something needs to be done in any area and don’t want on someone else to jump in there-if it needs to be done, I can do it.
My greatest joy is helping others find their gifts, get on the right seat on the bus and do well.
Examples: continually casting vision, sees the big picture, understands the importance of the entire team
Our overall game plan is: vision
Tell me what you like to do: making it happen
I know where your gift can be used effectively
I stay here because:
Where else would I be?
This is where I find the greatest level of satisfaction and fulfillment.
This is where I can serve others best
Once I’ve realized all of this, why would I go back to anything else?
In fact, I want to get better and better at coaching
* 1 Corinthians 9:19 “Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ.”
Four Groups of People Involved With Every Great Adventure:
1) Those who participate in the whole adventure (with us)
2) Those who started but did not finish (for us)
3) Those who waved at the adventurers from the dock (for us)
4) Those who didn’t even know there was an adventure going on (oblivious)
At the end of the day, I want to be in for the whole adventure. I want people to know I was with them, sold out to make sure they achieved their God-given destiny. I don’t want live to pass me by and I’m oblivious to what’s going on. I want my life to count for the Kingdom of God-I want to be someone He can use to bring many to Christ.
A Life-Giving Church for People Just Like You!
Whether you are full of questions or ready to jump right in, there is a place for you at The Church at Mirror Lake. Our church is a place where you can build relationships with others, experience God in worship, be empowered by practical, life-giving teaching from God's Word, and have fun doing it.
Together, we are living the Winner's Life as we learn to love, serve, reach, grow and connect. So whether you're a spiritual seeker starting to ask questions about God, or a committed Christian looking to sink your faith roots even deeper, you'll feel at home at The Church at Mirror Lake.
If you believe Jesus really meant it when He said, "I came so people can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of," (John 10:10 Message Translation) then join us this weekend at one of our Jesus Celebrations. Until then, browse our website (a link is on the right of this page) where you'll find lots of helpful info and feel free to download one of our service messages or subscribe to our weekly podcast where you will receive the fresh, life-giving Word of God.
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Monday, November 2, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
10/28/09 - Africa Missions Update
The Africa Missions team discusses their trip and the impact that our church has made on others in this Wednesday evening service.
Africa Missions Update
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Africa Missions Update
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
2 Corinthians 9:10 “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer
and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your
resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”
Protecting Your Harvest:
You have planted your seed; you’ve given your offering. You have expectations of a harvest from your seed. So now it’s all in God’s hands and your responsibility is over, right? No way. The offering is not the end; in fact it is probably more of a beginning. As we see in Paul’s writing to the Church at Corinth, it is God’s desire to see a continual harvest of generosity in our lives.
He gives us the seed so that living open-handed becomes a lifestyle rather than an event. It is important to Him for us to receive the intended harvest so we can truly live generously.
Most of us know the Parable of the Sower from the Gospels. In it, Jesus explains how the key to Kingdom harvest is our hearts, our souls. The parable is also a practical look at effective sowing and reaping. Let’s look at some tips from Jesus on making sure your seed produces a harvest.
o Key Thought #1: Matthew 13:4 “As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.”
The birds are eating the seed on the path. The birds represent our enemy-satan and the forces of darkness, and the path represents the choices we make. Our harvest is dependent on protecting our thoughts. As we walk our “path” we will encounter “crossroads” where choices are made. It is here where our enemy seeks to steal our seed. Our choices cannot be driven by fear, doubt or unbelief. They must be a response to God’s Word. Protect your seed by speaking the Word over it. When wrong thinking comes—thoughts like “I should not have given” or “I could have used that money somewhere else”—immediately respond with God’s promises. Note that when Jesus was tempted by satan in the wilderness there is no gap, no hesitation, between satan’s words toward Him and His response with God’s Word. Stay on the path to a full harvest by filling your soul with God’s promises concerning you and your harvest.
o Key Thought #2: Matthew 13:5-6 “Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died.”
Here, Jesus lets us know that our seed will be attacked and the key to victory is deep roots. In Ephesians 3:17 Paul tells us that sinking our roots deep into God’s love will release the power of Christ in our faith. In Colossians 2:7, Paul teaches us that thanksgiving is how we become firmly established. In the “heat” of the attack—negative thoughts, fear, doubt or unbelief—sink your roots deep by giving thanks to God for His unconditional love towards us. Fill your heart and your mouth with His praise. In Leviticus 19:19, God warns us that planting two types of seed in the same field will destroy the harvest. When we live with an attitude of gratitude, we keep the negative seeds of doubt, fear and unbelief from messing up the good seed in our field.
o Key Thought #3: Matthew 13:7 “Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants.” Jesus describes the thorns as allowing things to become complicated by the worries and concerns of this world. In Jeremiah 4:3, the Lord warns us that these complications will harden our hearts and choke our harvest.
So how do we keep it simple—
o First, remember a seed cannot produce unless it dies. Release your ownership of the seed. It never was ours to begin with, but we sometimes take ownership of it with our thoughts. It was God’s before you had it, it was God’s when you had it, and it is God’s now that you have planted it. Don’t dig it up by taking ownership of it with worry. Don’t allow complications—bills, unforeseen circumstances, etc.—to birth worry and concern that will dig up the seed. Thank Him for being trustworthy. Remember His promise of a guaranteed harvest. Galatians 6:9 “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
o Second, stay focused. You were focused with the seed. Be focused with the harvest. God’s defined harvest is generosity. Keep finding ways to be generous. When you receive harvest, use it to position yourself for greater generosity. Don’t just spend it thoughtlessly. Be as thoughtful with the harvest as you were with the seed. Give generously, pay off debt. Put yourself in a place where God can pour more harvest through you to advance His Kingdom!
o Key Thought #4: Matthew 13:8 “Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
Jesus is challenging us to think in Kingdom realms. Think bigger, expect bigger. Our God wants to release a harvest in us and through us that is bigger than we can ask or think. Train yourself to be fertile, rich soil by thinking God-sized thoughts. Pray expectantly, speak expectantly, plan expectantly. Don’t settle for a minimal harvest. Our God is faithful and our enemy is on the prowl for unprotected and unclaimed harvest. Live by faith. Challenge yourself daily by believing and confessing greatness. Jesus plainly states here that we should not only be expecting a harvest, but that we should be expecting big!
and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your
resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”
Protecting Your Harvest:
You have planted your seed; you’ve given your offering. You have expectations of a harvest from your seed. So now it’s all in God’s hands and your responsibility is over, right? No way. The offering is not the end; in fact it is probably more of a beginning. As we see in Paul’s writing to the Church at Corinth, it is God’s desire to see a continual harvest of generosity in our lives.
He gives us the seed so that living open-handed becomes a lifestyle rather than an event. It is important to Him for us to receive the intended harvest so we can truly live generously.
Most of us know the Parable of the Sower from the Gospels. In it, Jesus explains how the key to Kingdom harvest is our hearts, our souls. The parable is also a practical look at effective sowing and reaping. Let’s look at some tips from Jesus on making sure your seed produces a harvest.
o Key Thought #1: Matthew 13:4 “As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.”
The birds are eating the seed on the path. The birds represent our enemy-satan and the forces of darkness, and the path represents the choices we make. Our harvest is dependent on protecting our thoughts. As we walk our “path” we will encounter “crossroads” where choices are made. It is here where our enemy seeks to steal our seed. Our choices cannot be driven by fear, doubt or unbelief. They must be a response to God’s Word. Protect your seed by speaking the Word over it. When wrong thinking comes—thoughts like “I should not have given” or “I could have used that money somewhere else”—immediately respond with God’s promises. Note that when Jesus was tempted by satan in the wilderness there is no gap, no hesitation, between satan’s words toward Him and His response with God’s Word. Stay on the path to a full harvest by filling your soul with God’s promises concerning you and your harvest.
o Key Thought #2: Matthew 13:5-6 “Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died.”
Here, Jesus lets us know that our seed will be attacked and the key to victory is deep roots. In Ephesians 3:17 Paul tells us that sinking our roots deep into God’s love will release the power of Christ in our faith. In Colossians 2:7, Paul teaches us that thanksgiving is how we become firmly established. In the “heat” of the attack—negative thoughts, fear, doubt or unbelief—sink your roots deep by giving thanks to God for His unconditional love towards us. Fill your heart and your mouth with His praise. In Leviticus 19:19, God warns us that planting two types of seed in the same field will destroy the harvest. When we live with an attitude of gratitude, we keep the negative seeds of doubt, fear and unbelief from messing up the good seed in our field.
o Key Thought #3: Matthew 13:7 “Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants.” Jesus describes the thorns as allowing things to become complicated by the worries and concerns of this world. In Jeremiah 4:3, the Lord warns us that these complications will harden our hearts and choke our harvest.
So how do we keep it simple—
o First, remember a seed cannot produce unless it dies. Release your ownership of the seed. It never was ours to begin with, but we sometimes take ownership of it with our thoughts. It was God’s before you had it, it was God’s when you had it, and it is God’s now that you have planted it. Don’t dig it up by taking ownership of it with worry. Don’t allow complications—bills, unforeseen circumstances, etc.—to birth worry and concern that will dig up the seed. Thank Him for being trustworthy. Remember His promise of a guaranteed harvest. Galatians 6:9 “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”
o Second, stay focused. You were focused with the seed. Be focused with the harvest. God’s defined harvest is generosity. Keep finding ways to be generous. When you receive harvest, use it to position yourself for greater generosity. Don’t just spend it thoughtlessly. Be as thoughtful with the harvest as you were with the seed. Give generously, pay off debt. Put yourself in a place where God can pour more harvest through you to advance His Kingdom!
o Key Thought #4: Matthew 13:8 “Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
Jesus is challenging us to think in Kingdom realms. Think bigger, expect bigger. Our God wants to release a harvest in us and through us that is bigger than we can ask or think. Train yourself to be fertile, rich soil by thinking God-sized thoughts. Pray expectantly, speak expectantly, plan expectantly. Don’t settle for a minimal harvest. Our God is faithful and our enemy is on the prowl for unprotected and unclaimed harvest. Live by faith. Challenge yourself daily by believing and confessing greatness. Jesus plainly states here that we should not only be expecting a harvest, but that we should be expecting big!
Monday, October 26, 2009
10/25/09 - GameDay PT3 - Generosity - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "GameDay - Are You Playing To Win?" with part 3 - Generosity "Living With An Open Hand".
GameDay PT3 - Generosity
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 25, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Turn Loose and Score
- Deuteronomy 15:7 “Live with an open hand. Don’t be tight-fisted with the blessings the Lord gives you.”
* Note what living with a closed hand does to your body. Open your hand and the whole body feels more relaxed. You cannot hit the long bomb and score profusely unless you turn loose of the ball!
Follow the Playbook
- Psalm 145:16 “You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing.”
* When we live with an open hand, we are living in the image of our Father—like Jesus did (“I say what I hear Him say and I do what I see Him do.”). His plans for us are better than our plans for us and His plans benefit the whole Kingdom, not just our kingdom.
Open Up the Field
- Proverbs 11:24(Message) "The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller."
* Scoring in the “Redzone” is tougher because the field is smaller and easier for the defense to protect. Living with an open hand creates more opportunities, keeps our enemy on his heels, and is just more fun. It is the faith race instead of the rat race. It is a grace-filled life of wonder instead of a stress-filled life of worry.
Final Word
We all have things we hold with an open hand and things we hold with a closed hand. There’s a big difference between the two. To hold something with an open hand is to have it in your possession, to have rights to it, but not to protect it or view it as an entitlement. To hold something with a closed hand is to clench it and refuse to let it go. There are few things we hold with a tighter fist than money. Or what we call our money. Yet there is no better indication of someone’s heart than holding their money with an open hand and generosity for kingdom work. How closed is your hand on money?
You can know how tightly you hold things when they are threatened to be taken away. We want to be in control. We want to self-manage everything. This is where Paul’s example of missional, Christ-focused living is so helpful. For Paul, his rights were things he held with an open hand. If it is best for the kingdom of God, I’ll give them up. Go without. Make tents. Not have a wife along. Not receive support. Open Hand. Anything for the Kingdom. He said it this way in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He held his whole life with an open hand. Was Paul a fool or did he realize something we often don’t?
In the words of Jim Elliot, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” It only seems like we can hold on to anything. What do we really control? Nothing. God is glorified when we trust Him enough to hold everything with an open hand. God, you can take these from me because I believe what you will do with them is better than what I would do with them. I want what you want, therefore all I have is yours. I have trusted you with my eternity; I can offer everything else to you as well.
GameDay PT3 - Generosity
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 25, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Turn Loose and Score
- Deuteronomy 15:7 “Live with an open hand. Don’t be tight-fisted with the blessings the Lord gives you.”
* Note what living with a closed hand does to your body. Open your hand and the whole body feels more relaxed. You cannot hit the long bomb and score profusely unless you turn loose of the ball!
Follow the Playbook
- Psalm 145:16 “You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing.”
* When we live with an open hand, we are living in the image of our Father—like Jesus did (“I say what I hear Him say and I do what I see Him do.”). His plans for us are better than our plans for us and His plans benefit the whole Kingdom, not just our kingdom.
Open Up the Field
- Proverbs 11:24(Message) "The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller."
* Scoring in the “Redzone” is tougher because the field is smaller and easier for the defense to protect. Living with an open hand creates more opportunities, keeps our enemy on his heels, and is just more fun. It is the faith race instead of the rat race. It is a grace-filled life of wonder instead of a stress-filled life of worry.
Final Word
We all have things we hold with an open hand and things we hold with a closed hand. There’s a big difference between the two. To hold something with an open hand is to have it in your possession, to have rights to it, but not to protect it or view it as an entitlement. To hold something with a closed hand is to clench it and refuse to let it go. There are few things we hold with a tighter fist than money. Or what we call our money. Yet there is no better indication of someone’s heart than holding their money with an open hand and generosity for kingdom work. How closed is your hand on money?
You can know how tightly you hold things when they are threatened to be taken away. We want to be in control. We want to self-manage everything. This is where Paul’s example of missional, Christ-focused living is so helpful. For Paul, his rights were things he held with an open hand. If it is best for the kingdom of God, I’ll give them up. Go without. Make tents. Not have a wife along. Not receive support. Open Hand. Anything for the Kingdom. He said it this way in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” He held his whole life with an open hand. Was Paul a fool or did he realize something we often don’t?
In the words of Jim Elliot, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” It only seems like we can hold on to anything. What do we really control? Nothing. God is glorified when we trust Him enough to hold everything with an open hand. God, you can take these from me because I believe what you will do with them is better than what I would do with them. I want what you want, therefore all I have is yours. I have trusted you with my eternity; I can offer everything else to you as well.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Talking Money and Making Sense Series Doc's
Following are the links to download documents associated with the "Talking Money and Making Sense Series". You will need Adobe Reader to open the files. The "Filing System" document is the setup for the system that Pastor Tony utilizes and demonstrated during the series.
Poverty or Blessing
Filing System
Poverty or Blessing
Filing System
10/21/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT6 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 6 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT6
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
* Not enough that we survive—God wants us to thrive. His ultimate goal is for us to live in the land of more than enough—a land of sowing and reaping.
* 2 Kings 4:1—widow’s husband was a man who loved and served God, but died broke.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan. ING’s ad—What’s your number?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”
Bible’s 10 Financial Commandments
- 1 Corinthians 10:11—The things that happened to Israel in their journey were as examples for us in these later days.
1. Be a tither and giver. The tithe is the first and the best 10%. Malachi 3:10
2. Provide for your own family’s needs - 1 Timothy 5:8
3. Purchase a home for you and your family - Jeremiah 29:5
4. Leave an inheritance for your children and grandchildren - Proverbs 13:22
5. Give to missions and ministers - 1 Corinthians 9:9-11
6. Pay your debts and your taxes - Romans 13:8; Mark 12:17
7. Give to the poor and organizations that help the poor - Proverbs 28:27
8. Give generously to every good work - 2 Corinthians 9:6-12
9. Work hard with your own hands - Ephesians 4:28
10. Lay up treasures in your Heavenly bank account - Matthew 6:20-21
a. Souls are the only thing we can take to heaven
b. Influence for the Kingdom wins souls
Practical Application
* Order precedes Increase
* If you measure it, it will improve.
* Budgeting is a Biblical principle
If we don’t budget to tithe and give, we will find ourselves at the end of the month with nothing or little to give, thereby robbing God of an opportunity to bless and us of an opportunity to be blessed.
We are sentencing ourselves to a life lived in the Land of Never Enough.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT6
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
* Not enough that we survive—God wants us to thrive. His ultimate goal is for us to live in the land of more than enough—a land of sowing and reaping.
* 2 Kings 4:1—widow’s husband was a man who loved and served God, but died broke.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan. ING’s ad—What’s your number?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”
Bible’s 10 Financial Commandments
- 1 Corinthians 10:11—The things that happened to Israel in their journey were as examples for us in these later days.
1. Be a tither and giver. The tithe is the first and the best 10%. Malachi 3:10
2. Provide for your own family’s needs - 1 Timothy 5:8
3. Purchase a home for you and your family - Jeremiah 29:5
4. Leave an inheritance for your children and grandchildren - Proverbs 13:22
5. Give to missions and ministers - 1 Corinthians 9:9-11
6. Pay your debts and your taxes - Romans 13:8; Mark 12:17
7. Give to the poor and organizations that help the poor - Proverbs 28:27
8. Give generously to every good work - 2 Corinthians 9:6-12
9. Work hard with your own hands - Ephesians 4:28
10. Lay up treasures in your Heavenly bank account - Matthew 6:20-21
a. Souls are the only thing we can take to heaven
b. Influence for the Kingdom wins souls
Practical Application
* Order precedes Increase
* If you measure it, it will improve.
* Budgeting is a Biblical principle
If we don’t budget to tithe and give, we will find ourselves at the end of the month with nothing or little to give, thereby robbing God of an opportunity to bless and us of an opportunity to be blessed.
We are sentencing ourselves to a life lived in the Land of Never Enough.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
10/18/09 - GameDay PT2 - Disappointment - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "GameDay - Are You Playing To Win?" with part 2 - Disappointment.
GameDay PT2 - Disappointment
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Disappointment
Why are we disappointed? What's going on in us that makes it so tough?
What is the root cause of the pain, fear, anger?
What is fueling our reaction?
Dis-appointment—to undo the appointment or to frustrate expectations
* Are we putting too much into the wrong appointments? When they are undone they wreck us, set us back, throw us into confusion. Stake your life (righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit) on appointments that cannot be undone.
* When can we expect disappointment to disappear? 2 Thessalonians 1:7 “…when Jesus returns…”
Romans 5:4-5 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Jeremiah 29:13 Message “When you come looking for me, you'll find me. "Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed."
Disappointment:
* Unanswered questions—goal: erode trust and attack faith which leads to insulation which leads to isolation
* Hurt, pain, disillusionment—goal: withdrawal and depression, paralysis which lead to insulation which lead to isolation
* Cynicism, inability to trust—goal: self-sufficiency and insulation which leads to isolation
Antidote:
* Trust in appointments made by God—those that will be kept—“though the fig tree fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine…” “…I will never leave you or forsake you…”. Example—You choose who you make yourself vulnerable to. You choose to be a victim or a victor. There is one, and one alone, who will always keep His appointments and always be by my side, even when I don’t see Him and understand what is going on.
* Unwavering trust in God and His Word—“not moved by what I feel or what I see”. “In Christ, His promises are yes and amen.” Example: When it looked like people we loved, our kids, were making choices that were taking them away from us and God, knowing that the Word of God we had sown in them was good seed and would come up. Opinions, good human practices and principles, all that good stuff were not working, but we knew God’s Word has stood the test of time, has always proven faithful and will always be faithful.
* The ability to look beyond the moment, to believe that in all things God is working and that even though I don’t understand what is going on right now, I will land on my feet and maybe even see the hand of God in what has happened. Example: all the years that led up to where I am now—years of knowing I was called to pastor yet no opportunities, working a job I knew wasn’t my destiny, doing things that seemed like a waste of time. Every one of those things has proven to be helpful—understanding processes, leadership development, group therapy with behaviorally challenged kids.
Sometimes, there will be no answers to our questions, at least not on this earth. That is when we encounter a “crisis of faith”—do we really trust God with our lives, our hurts, our disappointments or are we once again going to depend on our own abilities to meet those needs. Is living for God really what we want or does it just sound good to us? When we say “It is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me”—does that only apply when it is going the way we want it to go? I am not my own, I have been bought with a price and the One who bought me loves me unconditionally and cares for me with more love than I can fathom. If He knows when a sparrow falls from the sky, how much more does He know and care about my hurts? If he knows the numbers of hairs on my heads and has collected every tear I have ever cried, how can I not believe he knows my pain, my aloneness, my rejection and depression and is working to turn what is meant to bring me harm into good?
GameDay PT2 - Disappointment
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Sunday, October 18, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Disappointment
Why are we disappointed? What's going on in us that makes it so tough?
What is the root cause of the pain, fear, anger?
What is fueling our reaction?
Dis-appointment—to undo the appointment or to frustrate expectations
* Are we putting too much into the wrong appointments? When they are undone they wreck us, set us back, throw us into confusion. Stake your life (righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit) on appointments that cannot be undone.
* When can we expect disappointment to disappear? 2 Thessalonians 1:7 “…when Jesus returns…”
Romans 5:4-5 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Jeremiah 29:13 Message “When you come looking for me, you'll find me. "Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed."
Disappointment:
* Unanswered questions—goal: erode trust and attack faith which leads to insulation which leads to isolation
* Hurt, pain, disillusionment—goal: withdrawal and depression, paralysis which lead to insulation which lead to isolation
* Cynicism, inability to trust—goal: self-sufficiency and insulation which leads to isolation
Antidote:
* Trust in appointments made by God—those that will be kept—“though the fig tree fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine…” “…I will never leave you or forsake you…”. Example—You choose who you make yourself vulnerable to. You choose to be a victim or a victor. There is one, and one alone, who will always keep His appointments and always be by my side, even when I don’t see Him and understand what is going on.
* Unwavering trust in God and His Word—“not moved by what I feel or what I see”. “In Christ, His promises are yes and amen.” Example: When it looked like people we loved, our kids, were making choices that were taking them away from us and God, knowing that the Word of God we had sown in them was good seed and would come up. Opinions, good human practices and principles, all that good stuff were not working, but we knew God’s Word has stood the test of time, has always proven faithful and will always be faithful.
* The ability to look beyond the moment, to believe that in all things God is working and that even though I don’t understand what is going on right now, I will land on my feet and maybe even see the hand of God in what has happened. Example: all the years that led up to where I am now—years of knowing I was called to pastor yet no opportunities, working a job I knew wasn’t my destiny, doing things that seemed like a waste of time. Every one of those things has proven to be helpful—understanding processes, leadership development, group therapy with behaviorally challenged kids.
Sometimes, there will be no answers to our questions, at least not on this earth. That is when we encounter a “crisis of faith”—do we really trust God with our lives, our hurts, our disappointments or are we once again going to depend on our own abilities to meet those needs. Is living for God really what we want or does it just sound good to us? When we say “It is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me”—does that only apply when it is going the way we want it to go? I am not my own, I have been bought with a price and the One who bought me loves me unconditionally and cares for me with more love than I can fathom. If He knows when a sparrow falls from the sky, how much more does He know and care about my hurts? If he knows the numbers of hairs on my heads and has collected every tear I have ever cried, how can I not believe he knows my pain, my aloneness, my rejection and depression and is working to turn what is meant to bring me harm into good?
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Africa Blog Saturday Night
Final Blog:
The team is on the night bus to Kampala, arriving there at 5 AM Sunday. They will check into the YWCA for a shower and nap before seeing some of the city with an in-country missionary. They will board their flight to Amsterdam Sunday night at 10 PM and, after changing planes in Amsterdam, will arrive in Atlanta Monday at 1:40 PM. Here is the report from Sheryll for the last 48 hours:
Friday was an off-day for the team and they went on a safari. Again, for our team, no day is ordinary. They saw lots of animals, climbed a waterfall, and took a boat up the legendary Nile River. While on the boat trip along with other sight-seers, a big storm with thunder and lightning developed. Their boat captain mistakenly ran their vessel aground in the middle of the river on a sand bar. He needed help from volunteers to jump in the hippo and croc filled river with him and push the boat free. Our men jumped in while all the others sat there watching. They pushed while our ladies guided the boat and watched for crocs. They freed the boat and got the passengers out of the storm. Ever the heroes, our group! Then it was off to a café in Arua for dinner.
The team spent Saturday working in the HIV orphan project. Sheryll said it was the best day yet, and that we would be very proud of our team. Back in camp, the overseer of the group of bush churches the team met with Sunday hiked to see our team before they left. He wanted them to know that the things they had shared with the pastors Wednesday were already being put to use and people who had left the churches were committing to return! He walked all that way because it was important for our team to know of their impact in those churches.
They spent the rest of the day packing for their trip home, then gathered together with the base camp team for a party, complete with beef and rice and a cake cooked over the open fire. Then it was on the bus to begin the long journey home.
Please keep praying for their safe travel and return home.
The team is on the night bus to Kampala, arriving there at 5 AM Sunday. They will check into the YWCA for a shower and nap before seeing some of the city with an in-country missionary. They will board their flight to Amsterdam Sunday night at 10 PM and, after changing planes in Amsterdam, will arrive in Atlanta Monday at 1:40 PM. Here is the report from Sheryll for the last 48 hours:
Friday was an off-day for the team and they went on a safari. Again, for our team, no day is ordinary. They saw lots of animals, climbed a waterfall, and took a boat up the legendary Nile River. While on the boat trip along with other sight-seers, a big storm with thunder and lightning developed. Their boat captain mistakenly ran their vessel aground in the middle of the river on a sand bar. He needed help from volunteers to jump in the hippo and croc filled river with him and push the boat free. Our men jumped in while all the others sat there watching. They pushed while our ladies guided the boat and watched for crocs. They freed the boat and got the passengers out of the storm. Ever the heroes, our group! Then it was off to a café in Arua for dinner.
The team spent Saturday working in the HIV orphan project. Sheryll said it was the best day yet, and that we would be very proud of our team. Back in camp, the overseer of the group of bush churches the team met with Sunday hiked to see our team before they left. He wanted them to know that the things they had shared with the pastors Wednesday were already being put to use and people who had left the churches were committing to return! He walked all that way because it was important for our team to know of their impact in those churches.
They spent the rest of the day packing for their trip home, then gathered together with the base camp team for a party, complete with beef and rice and a cake cooked over the open fire. Then it was on the bus to begin the long journey home.
Please keep praying for their safe travel and return home.
Friday, October 16, 2009
10/14/09 - Talking Money and Making Sense PT5 - Pastor Tony Ashmore
Pastor Tony Ashmore continues the series "Talking Money and Making Sense" with part 5 in this Wednesday evening service.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Two Economies:
You get paid for 2 things—what you know and what you do. Find your gift, invest in your gift. God Expects us to succeed in both—You can love God and die broke 2 Kings 4:1 The widow had nothing.
Keys to Success in World’s Economy:
* Hard Work
* Knowledge
* Visions and Plans
Natural + Supernatural = Biblically Blessed
3 Lands:
* Just enough—Egypt—all human effort
* The Wilderness—Just Enough—all supernatural—quail and manna
* More than Enough—The Promised Land—a land of sowing and reaping—human effort combined with the supernatural.
Living in the Land of More Than Enough:
* Keep God and money in the right place.
* Work with a spirit of excellence.
* Be generous.
* Be a cheerful giver.
* Be a strategic giver.
* Recognize seasons.
* Dream Bigger.
* It is OK to fail.
* Live with an abundance mindset.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom:
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”.
Talking Money and Making Sense PT5
Pastor Tony Ashmore
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
www.churchatmirrorlake.com
Sermon Notes:
Two Economies:
You get paid for 2 things—what you know and what you do. Find your gift, invest in your gift. God Expects us to succeed in both—You can love God and die broke 2 Kings 4:1 The widow had nothing.
Keys to Success in World’s Economy:
* Hard Work
* Knowledge
* Visions and Plans
Natural + Supernatural = Biblically Blessed
3 Lands:
* Just enough—Egypt—all human effort
* The Wilderness—Just Enough—all supernatural—quail and manna
* More than Enough—The Promised Land—a land of sowing and reaping—human effort combined with the supernatural.
Living in the Land of More Than Enough:
* Keep God and money in the right place.
* Work with a spirit of excellence.
* Be generous.
* Be a cheerful giver.
* Be a strategic giver.
* Recognize seasons.
* Dream Bigger.
* It is OK to fail.
* Live with an abundance mindset.
5 Precepts for Financial Freedom:
1. Keep Good Records
- Know what you are stewarding. Proverbs 24-3-4—Profit comes when we stay abreast of the facts.
2. Tithe and Give
- Proverbs 3:9-10. Keep seed in the ground. Sow little, reap little
3. Save for the Future
- Prov 6:6-8. Saving is a Biblical principle. Pay God, Pay yourself, Pay who you owe
4. Develop a Spending Plan
- Proverbs 16:3-9—a plan (supernatural part) + hard work (natural part) = success Luke 14:23. Do you have a 5 year spending plan?
5. Enjoy What You Have
- Prosper where you are planted. Hebrews 13:5-6 “Quit waiting until you can make a big dent. Start making small dents now.” Dino Rizzo Proverbs 13:11 “little by little makes it grow”.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Africa Team Update
Sheryll and I had the days mixed up. The team did not go on safari today. That is tomorrow. Today they spent the morning recuperating. Then, they visited the hospital in Arua again. They had a soft drink in a café and ordered some goat but it was going to take an hour to prepare because of their commitments for this afternoon. This afternoon, the ladies are meeting with Muslim ladies in a village to talk about what the Word of God says about family. The guys have been doing manual labor at the base camp, unloading sand and blocks, installing a sink and repairing some faucets.
Tomorrow they get up very early in order to have the best chance to see lions on the safari. The temperatures have been at or above 100 degrees so the lions go to the watering holes early and then stay out of sight during the heat of the day.
Tomorrow they get up very early in order to have the best chance to see lions on the safari. The temperatures have been at or above 100 degrees so the lions go to the watering holes early and then stay out of sight during the heat of the day.
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