Ah dang.

Ah dang, I really hate when you hear something from the pulpit that makes you adjust your position in the seat. That just means the Holy Spirit found an area of your life that He wanted to focus you on to, in fact, make you a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

Such an occurrence happened this past week. Such an occurrence was set up by circumstances surrounding a spiritual struggle I've had with some brothers. In fact, we haven't spoke in about 18 months. They haven't called me and I have called them. We've talked about each other, to others and on the blogs, but we haven't talked to each other. In fact, at times, we've been down right childish.

Recently, I was made aware of another rant on a blog about a minister I work with, and it was not entirely accurate. It came second hand, and rather than address it personally, it was blogged about. The blog was put out there to build one up, and tear the other down. I've been just as guilty in the past. Frankly, I was going to put in my 2 cents after I read it, but I really couldn't write and felt no desire to write. For sometime now, I have asked the Lord to fill me with the same Grace He showed me on the cross. Isaiah says He went to the cross like a lamb before her shears is QUIET. As quiet at Jesus was, His actions have spoken to me...VERY LOUD!

Granted, since the post and the incident inciting the post, I've really wanted to give that blogger a piece of my mind. Yet, nothing to write...nothing to say...quiet. Then a pastor at the church I attend, David Schorejs, shared some incredible verses this week. Romans 12:14, "Bless those that persecute you; bless and do not curse." SLAP! RIGHT IN THE FACE!! This is in a section of Romans where Paul is writing about love.

God -- "Hey Charlie!"

Me -- "Ya, Lord"

God -- "Chew on this one...BLESS THOSE THAT PERSECUTE YOU; BLESS AND DO NOT CURSE."

Me -- "Ah dang. Lord, Forgive me!!"

Right between the eyes. So, if you saw me moving, uncomfortable, squirming constantly, I didn't have a rash, I had the Holy Spirit. David nailed me with the following quote, "Build up the body of Christ," and sited Ephesians 4:11-13.

David's not perfect, and while some believe he's capable of walking on water, I've seen him sink in it. He's not even capable of changing water into wine, contrary to reports. Like me, full of faults but saved by grace.

Lord, Bless my brother's ministry, and help them to be lights to a dark world. Help us to work together for Your glory. Help us to stop being childish. The world deserves better of us.

If you didn't know it, this is Eastpoint Fellowship's 5 year anniversary celebration this Sunday. We'll have tons to do and some wonderful speaking this Sunday. I'm sure Brother Ken has another action packed worship service planned. I'll see you in church this Sunday!!