Here is a good read for all of us who want to see greater things in our lives in 2009. What guy doesn't want to see God "unleash" his life?
http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/men/11596978/
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Helping you stay out of the Doghouse
Men-Beware of the "doghouse"! Watch this video and keep a happy wife or girlfriend.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Powerful reminder for us dads
Dad's
Here is another great video that makes you want to be the best dad you can be.
Here is another great video that makes you want to be the best dad you can be.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
A DON'T MISS NW CONFERENCE FOR MEN
Don't miss the upcoming NW conference. Check it out.
Again in '09 the NW Regional Men's Conference is coming to 2 locations. See the great speaker line up and online registration.
http://nwmensconference.org/index.htm
Contact New Hope point man Bruce Kirk at seadog001@earthlink.net for information.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
What kind of Men are we?
Here is a great excerpt taken from a book entitled The Kind of Man Every Man Should Be by Kevin McCullough. I think you will agree that manhood has greatly changed and become something that all of us are not especially enthused about. Check out what Kevin has to say.
http://www.newmanmag.com/e-magazine/112608/story6.php
http://www.newmanmag.com/e-magazine/112608/story6.php
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Men's Identity Struggle
He was naked (Adam), overseeing a remedial task of naming animals, and in full confidence of who he was.
Oh, what sin has corrupted. Isn't it amazing how we men struggle find our identity in what they do, rather who we already are?
Read the Eric's Hogue's full article here
http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/men/11539184/
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Am I A man of God?
I was reading in 2 Kings recently and this struck me as a powerful question to ask of myself from time to time. King Ahaziah was looking for answers to a severe health issue. He had considered going to inquire of an idol. Elijah was tipped off by an angel of God that the king was looking to an idol god for help.
He confronted the king’s men, "Why are you going to Baal-zebub the god of Ekron, to ask whether the king will get well? Is there no God in Israel?” (2 Kings 1:3) Elijah was willing to stake his life on the fact that his God was the only true God and that he could faithfully represent Him. Elijah further responds to the king’s men, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and destroy you and your fifty men!” Fire did fall and killed every one of them. (v.10) Elijah was confident enough of his position with God that He could offer this test before the watching world.
Do I have confidence enough in God to let Him prove Himself before unbelievers? Am I willing to put the question up to God in front of people like Elijah had done? What would happen? Have I so surrendered personal pride that I am not afraid of what would happen? This is what God is calling me and all men to be willing to do –give Him opportunities to prove Himself to a world that is clueless of His sovereignty and omnipotence. But we have to be willing to put our own fears and reputations aside.
The next time you hear of someone who is sick or looking for answers will you and I offer to represent God and let Him show Himself as true and capable? Lets truly be Men of God!
He confronted the king’s men, "Why are you going to Baal-zebub the god of Ekron, to ask whether the king will get well? Is there no God in Israel?” (2 Kings 1:3) Elijah was willing to stake his life on the fact that his God was the only true God and that he could faithfully represent Him. Elijah further responds to the king’s men, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and destroy you and your fifty men!” Fire did fall and killed every one of them. (v.10) Elijah was confident enough of his position with God that He could offer this test before the watching world.
Do I have confidence enough in God to let Him prove Himself before unbelievers? Am I willing to put the question up to God in front of people like Elijah had done? What would happen? Have I so surrendered personal pride that I am not afraid of what would happen? This is what God is calling me and all men to be willing to do –give Him opportunities to prove Himself to a world that is clueless of His sovereignty and omnipotence. But we have to be willing to put our own fears and reputations aside.
The next time you hear of someone who is sick or looking for answers will you and I offer to represent God and let Him show Himself as true and capable? Lets truly be Men of God!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Pornography Awareness Week
This week (10/27-Nov 1st) has been designated as a special week to bring awareness to the impact of pornography on our society especially among Christians. Check out this article on the release of a new DVD entitled "Somebody's Daughter". According to the latest statistics 60% of Christian men and 35% of women struggle with this addiction. http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/11583508/
Don't let this stronghold continue to rob you of your integrity, your marriage or your job. Know the truth about your power through Christ to break this bondage of the soul.
We here at New Hope want to help any who are involved in this addiction, especially the guys. You can confidentially contact me for resources that will help to get you free! Use my email dennisd@newhopecommunitychurch.org or call 503 659-5683.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Men at the Cross- Joe White
Some of you men who have attended a recent Promise Keepers event will remember Joe White. He was the one who built a cross on the stage while telling the story of Christ and His power to restore every man. Joe has his own ministry devoted to that theme and much more. He is conducting events across the US with the goal of "empowering men to reach men". Check out his website http://www.menatthecross.org/ . He plans to come to the NW in 2010 with an event in Spokane.
Note also his excellent discipleship materials that appear to be all downloadable under the One 2 Won section of the website.
Joe believes like we do that if each man will reach one other man and repeat the cycle each year 7 Billion man can be reached in only 16 years!!
We Need Models and Mentors
Guys
This article appeared in Rick Warren"s Purpose Driven Life devotional. Good reminder on the need for mentors - disciplers.
----
Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. Philippians 3:17 (NIV)
For us to mature, we need models and mentors.
Many people make the mistake of thinking all they need to grow spiritually is God's Word and prayer. But the truth is, we need people to help us grow.
Christlike character is built through relationships, not in isolation. There are many things God wants you to learn about life that you'll never learn on your own. You'll only learn them in community.
We always grow faster and stronger with living, breathing examples who can model for us what a purpose driven life looks like. We need more than explanations, we need examples.
Paul realized the power of a pattern when he advised, "Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you" (Philippians 3:17 NIV). To grow, we need to see principles in practice. We need to see what beliefs looks like when they are translated as behavior in everyday situations.
When Paul would travel to a city to start a church, he would begin by simply living among the people. He was a "living Bible," echoing the life of Jesus, where "the word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14 NKJV).
After Paul left a city, he would write back, "Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:9 NLT).
Who are your models for following Christ? Who are you watching and learning from?
Here's a tougher question: Are you an example for anyone else? In elementary school, you probably enjoyed "Show and Tell." As believers, we're often better at "telling" than "showing."
In today's culture, the world desperately needs people who can show us how to love our spouse and make a marriage last, how to relate to our kids, how to do business with integrity, how to handle conflict in the way Jesus would. These are lessons we learn by watching others.
Not only do we need models to grow, we need mentors. Mentors are people who've followed Christ longer than we have and are able to share their life lessons. You've heard that it's wise to learn from experience, but it is wiser to learn from the experiences of others. Life is too short to learn everything by experience! And some painful experiences can be avoided if you're smart enough to learn from mentors in your church family.
Ask yourself this: "What's been the greatest positive influence on my life?" Most likely it was not a sermon, seminar, or small group lesson. It was somebody who shaped your life through a personal relationship.
Can you see God's wisdom in creating the church, a family full of mentors and models for our benefit?
That's why being connected to a small group is so crucial to spiritual growth. It's a regular opportunity to learn from each other.
Today, spend a few moments getting intentional about this. Write down the names of people in your church and small group that you'd like to learn from. Then identify what you'd specifically like to learn from them. Remember, they don't have to be perfect to be a model or mentor.
To grow spiritually, you must also be willing to be a model or mentor to others. That may scare you but all it takes is being one step ahead.
People don't expect you to be perfect - they already know you aren't. What they want you to be is honest! So let them see your struggles, not just your successes. We usually grow as much from others' weaknesses as we do from their strengths.
© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.
This article appeared in Rick Warren"s Purpose Driven Life devotional. Good reminder on the need for mentors - disciplers.
----
Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. Philippians 3:17 (NIV)
For us to mature, we need models and mentors.
Many people make the mistake of thinking all they need to grow spiritually is God's Word and prayer. But the truth is, we need people to help us grow.
Christlike character is built through relationships, not in isolation. There are many things God wants you to learn about life that you'll never learn on your own. You'll only learn them in community.
We always grow faster and stronger with living, breathing examples who can model for us what a purpose driven life looks like. We need more than explanations, we need examples.
Paul realized the power of a pattern when he advised, "Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you" (Philippians 3:17 NIV). To grow, we need to see principles in practice. We need to see what beliefs looks like when they are translated as behavior in everyday situations.
When Paul would travel to a city to start a church, he would begin by simply living among the people. He was a "living Bible," echoing the life of Jesus, where "the word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14 NKJV).
After Paul left a city, he would write back, "Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:9 NLT).
Who are your models for following Christ? Who are you watching and learning from?
Here's a tougher question: Are you an example for anyone else? In elementary school, you probably enjoyed "Show and Tell." As believers, we're often better at "telling" than "showing."
In today's culture, the world desperately needs people who can show us how to love our spouse and make a marriage last, how to relate to our kids, how to do business with integrity, how to handle conflict in the way Jesus would. These are lessons we learn by watching others.
Not only do we need models to grow, we need mentors. Mentors are people who've followed Christ longer than we have and are able to share their life lessons. You've heard that it's wise to learn from experience, but it is wiser to learn from the experiences of others. Life is too short to learn everything by experience! And some painful experiences can be avoided if you're smart enough to learn from mentors in your church family.
Ask yourself this: "What's been the greatest positive influence on my life?" Most likely it was not a sermon, seminar, or small group lesson. It was somebody who shaped your life through a personal relationship.
Can you see God's wisdom in creating the church, a family full of mentors and models for our benefit?
That's why being connected to a small group is so crucial to spiritual growth. It's a regular opportunity to learn from each other.
Today, spend a few moments getting intentional about this. Write down the names of people in your church and small group that you'd like to learn from. Then identify what you'd specifically like to learn from them. Remember, they don't have to be perfect to be a model or mentor.
To grow spiritually, you must also be willing to be a model or mentor to others. That may scare you but all it takes is being one step ahead.
People don't expect you to be perfect - they already know you aren't. What they want you to be is honest! So let them see your struggles, not just your successes. We usually grow as much from others' weaknesses as we do from their strengths.
© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
A Vision for Transformation
Hey guys
Here is an encouraging word from Pastor Francis Frangipane’s ministry. He has written several books and does training seminars on becoming more Christ like. I have followed his ministry for years and have heard him speak. I am so in line with his message of spiritual transformation.
In 1970 the Holy Spirit gave Pastor Francis Frangipane a vision that included a powerful promise from Isaiah 60:2-3. The Lord warned, "For behold, darkness will cover the earth, and deep darkness the peoples." Yet, in spite of the increased advances of hell, the Holy Spirit also promised, "But the Lord will rise upon you, and His glory will appear upon you. And nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising." (See Pastor Frangipane's book, The Days Of His Presence.)
It is our deep conviction that there shall be a great, last-days witness to all nations before Christ returns (see Matt 24:14).
Indeed, like no other time in history, we are living in a season of spiritual harvest. Researchers tell us that, worldwide, almost a million people each week are being born into God's kingdom. In amazing ways, the Holy Spirit is raising up and empowering ordinary people for extraordinary callings. Transformed men and women are transforming their neighborhoods and churches.
The plan is the same as what compelled the first-century church: we are seeking to possess the character and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Whether your desire is to see your family transformed or your nation in revival, today is not the time to despair, but to prepare.
In Christ's Image TrainingOur vision is to see hundreds of thousands of pastors and intercessors - people from all walks of life - focus their energies on becoming Christlike. Remember, Isaiah wrote that the "glory of the Lord" shall rise upon His people. It’s not the glory of our culture or gender, denomination or local church: we are seeking the glory of God’s Son to be revealed through us. Our confidence is that every time the Father sees His Son manifest upon the earth, His heart is "well-pleased." If we truly reveal Jesus, we too will awaken the pleasure of God. It is our burning conviction that when the Father's pleasure is stirred, His redemptive power soon follows.
If you would like to check out more of what Pastor Francis has to say on this go to his website http://www.frangipane.org
Here is an encouraging word from Pastor Francis Frangipane’s ministry. He has written several books and does training seminars on becoming more Christ like. I have followed his ministry for years and have heard him speak. I am so in line with his message of spiritual transformation.
In 1970 the Holy Spirit gave Pastor Francis Frangipane a vision that included a powerful promise from Isaiah 60:2-3. The Lord warned, "For behold, darkness will cover the earth, and deep darkness the peoples." Yet, in spite of the increased advances of hell, the Holy Spirit also promised, "But the Lord will rise upon you, and His glory will appear upon you. And nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising." (See Pastor Frangipane's book, The Days Of His Presence.)
It is our deep conviction that there shall be a great, last-days witness to all nations before Christ returns (see Matt 24:14).
Indeed, like no other time in history, we are living in a season of spiritual harvest. Researchers tell us that, worldwide, almost a million people each week are being born into God's kingdom. In amazing ways, the Holy Spirit is raising up and empowering ordinary people for extraordinary callings. Transformed men and women are transforming their neighborhoods and churches.
The plan is the same as what compelled the first-century church: we are seeking to possess the character and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Whether your desire is to see your family transformed or your nation in revival, today is not the time to despair, but to prepare.
In Christ's Image TrainingOur vision is to see hundreds of thousands of pastors and intercessors - people from all walks of life - focus their energies on becoming Christlike. Remember, Isaiah wrote that the "glory of the Lord" shall rise upon His people. It’s not the glory of our culture or gender, denomination or local church: we are seeking the glory of God’s Son to be revealed through us. Our confidence is that every time the Father sees His Son manifest upon the earth, His heart is "well-pleased." If we truly reveal Jesus, we too will awaken the pleasure of God. It is our burning conviction that when the Father's pleasure is stirred, His redemptive power soon follows.
If you would like to check out more of what Pastor Francis has to say on this go to his website http://www.frangipane.org
Monday, September 15, 2008
Who is the Off-road Man?
When I go on a road trip I prefer to take the back roads. Cruising’ down the freeway is often times too boring. I think its because as a man I was born for adventure, the unordinary, the challenge. Like you, I am unique, not created to stay on the wide, easy path. We are made for the twists and turns of the narrow road.
When it comes to being a disciple of Jesus you have to take the back road or the “off road”. It is a call for more guts and commitment but you and I are made for it. I want to encourage you to become the off road man you were destined to be.
Jesus said some pretty straight stuff about the off road lifestyle. He said,
You can enter the God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell (destruction) is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way. But the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, only a few ever find it. (Matt. 7:13,14)
The off road is the only way to get into the Kingdom of God. What is the Kingdom of God? That’s where real life is. It’s life as God intended with meaning, fulfillment, and purpose. It’s where you really experience all the wonders and thrills of life. But to get there is not easy and being an off road man is not easy either. Some are hesitant to go there. It’s not for the slacker; lay low, easy-does- it kind.
Why is it hard? Why a narrow gate? Because, the Kingdom is so worth the effort. The Bible says its like finding a treasure in a field and buying the whole field to get it. If you’re thinking that being a disciple of Jesus is the easy way – forget it. You don’t just accept or believe in Jesus; you follow him – down the off road. He didn’t die so you could have the easy life or a peace plan with God. He died to make it possible for you to be able to fulfill your destiny as a man full of real life. Those who don’t think its worth it take the wide road.
The Bible is full of illustrations of men who have dared to take the off road. Here are just a few.
Think of Abraham who packed up and left his home and relatives to follow a voice. That voice called him to venture toward a land he had never seen and a new life. The fact of the matter was, he didn’t even know where he was going. It was truly an off road experience!
And then there was Moses. He was moving up the line in the monarchy of ancient Egypt but forsook it only to escape into the wilderness as a no body for forty years. Imagine what he gave up to take the off road in life.
The young man Daniel refused to bow down to a Babylonian idol and as a result was thrown to the lions. He certainly wasn’t afraid to get off the wide road of his day.
The great Old Testament prophet Elijah dared to confront the wicked king and queen of the land with all their idol worship. He called out for a day of reckoning as to whose god was real. He was calling people to get off the wide road.
We can also point out many other examples through out history.
John Wycliffe, a 14th century leader in the Roman Catholic Church, dared to point out the erroneous path the church was taking. His dissent ultimately led to the Protestant Reformation. But he was so hated that after he died the church burned many of his books and exhumed his body to be mutilated. What if he had just gone down the wide path with all the rest? Where would Christianity be today?
William Wilberforce was elected to the English Parliament in1784. In 1785 he became a true disciple of Jesus. His spiritual convictions led him to begin speaking out against the cruel practice of slave trading. His influence began the abolitionist movement. His path down the off road eventually led to the end of a cruel and inhumane business.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a Lutheran minister in Germany in the 1930’s. He refused to follow along with Hitler’s socialist revolution and became a leader of the German Resistance. He was imprisoned and while there wrote the classic book called The cost of Discipleship. He was brutally tortured and hanged. What a price to pay for taking the off road.
Our current presidential candidate Senator John McCain also amazes me with the courage he displayed while a POW in North Vietnam. In his autobiography he tells of how his captors repeatedly beat and tortured him for five plus years. One day they told him that he would be released but McCain knew it was simply a propaganda ploy. He refused to accept his freedom because it violated military code and his relationship to the other fellow prisoners. Talk about opting for the hard way.
In sizing up the off road man here are some other check offs in the key areas of life.
Moral decisions. The off road man stays off the wide road of sexual promiscuity, pornography and the abuse of chemical substances. He resists the pressure to allow these behaviors to control his life. I personally know how dangerous that road is.
Financial integrity. He works hard at staying out of debt. It is not easy to say no to that new boat, motorcycle or other tantalizing toy. But here’s the problem. According to recent surveys in the USA, less than 10% of born-again believers have a Christian worldview. That means over 90% of us have been seduced into a pursuit of the same materialistic goals as our unbelieving neighbors. Over 40% have never given the first dime to the Lord’s work. Is that the off road way?
Family. He puts his wife and family first, serving them before himself. The off road man fulfills his role as the spiritual head of his family.
Social life. The off road man can be in the crowd but not of it. For him, some groups of guys just don’t measure up to his convictions in speech, and behavior. He refuses to be known as one of the crowd, a conformist or everyday kind of man.
Relationally. One of the most important characteristics of the off road man is his commitment to a band of brothers. To go it alone is not an option.
The off road man is the kind of man who leaves his mark for the next generation. He is remembered for his courage and boldness in staying off the wide path. My own father was one of those kinds of men. While not perfect he did his best to live a life a cut above his peers in speech and conduct. I admire him more every day for the guts it took to be a man committed to the narrow way.
Is there a benefit to going down the narrow path, the off road? Ask any man who has traveled down that road. See if they regret having found true life, meaning, purpose and significance. They are not fooled into believing that the easy road leads to anything but disaster and heartache. Rather, they know that although the road is sometimes tough it leads to far better places and blessings.
How about you? Are you one of the few who will “find it”? Get off the “freeway”. Make the decision and tell another man.
When it comes to being a disciple of Jesus you have to take the back road or the “off road”. It is a call for more guts and commitment but you and I are made for it. I want to encourage you to become the off road man you were destined to be.
Jesus said some pretty straight stuff about the off road lifestyle. He said,
You can enter the God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell (destruction) is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose the easy way. But the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, only a few ever find it. (Matt. 7:13,14)
The off road is the only way to get into the Kingdom of God. What is the Kingdom of God? That’s where real life is. It’s life as God intended with meaning, fulfillment, and purpose. It’s where you really experience all the wonders and thrills of life. But to get there is not easy and being an off road man is not easy either. Some are hesitant to go there. It’s not for the slacker; lay low, easy-does- it kind.
Why is it hard? Why a narrow gate? Because, the Kingdom is so worth the effort. The Bible says its like finding a treasure in a field and buying the whole field to get it. If you’re thinking that being a disciple of Jesus is the easy way – forget it. You don’t just accept or believe in Jesus; you follow him – down the off road. He didn’t die so you could have the easy life or a peace plan with God. He died to make it possible for you to be able to fulfill your destiny as a man full of real life. Those who don’t think its worth it take the wide road.
The Bible is full of illustrations of men who have dared to take the off road. Here are just a few.
Think of Abraham who packed up and left his home and relatives to follow a voice. That voice called him to venture toward a land he had never seen and a new life. The fact of the matter was, he didn’t even know where he was going. It was truly an off road experience!
And then there was Moses. He was moving up the line in the monarchy of ancient Egypt but forsook it only to escape into the wilderness as a no body for forty years. Imagine what he gave up to take the off road in life.
The young man Daniel refused to bow down to a Babylonian idol and as a result was thrown to the lions. He certainly wasn’t afraid to get off the wide road of his day.
The great Old Testament prophet Elijah dared to confront the wicked king and queen of the land with all their idol worship. He called out for a day of reckoning as to whose god was real. He was calling people to get off the wide road.
We can also point out many other examples through out history.
John Wycliffe, a 14th century leader in the Roman Catholic Church, dared to point out the erroneous path the church was taking. His dissent ultimately led to the Protestant Reformation. But he was so hated that after he died the church burned many of his books and exhumed his body to be mutilated. What if he had just gone down the wide path with all the rest? Where would Christianity be today?
William Wilberforce was elected to the English Parliament in1784. In 1785 he became a true disciple of Jesus. His spiritual convictions led him to begin speaking out against the cruel practice of slave trading. His influence began the abolitionist movement. His path down the off road eventually led to the end of a cruel and inhumane business.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a Lutheran minister in Germany in the 1930’s. He refused to follow along with Hitler’s socialist revolution and became a leader of the German Resistance. He was imprisoned and while there wrote the classic book called The cost of Discipleship. He was brutally tortured and hanged. What a price to pay for taking the off road.
Our current presidential candidate Senator John McCain also amazes me with the courage he displayed while a POW in North Vietnam. In his autobiography he tells of how his captors repeatedly beat and tortured him for five plus years. One day they told him that he would be released but McCain knew it was simply a propaganda ploy. He refused to accept his freedom because it violated military code and his relationship to the other fellow prisoners. Talk about opting for the hard way.
In sizing up the off road man here are some other check offs in the key areas of life.
Moral decisions. The off road man stays off the wide road of sexual promiscuity, pornography and the abuse of chemical substances. He resists the pressure to allow these behaviors to control his life. I personally know how dangerous that road is.
Financial integrity. He works hard at staying out of debt. It is not easy to say no to that new boat, motorcycle or other tantalizing toy. But here’s the problem. According to recent surveys in the USA, less than 10% of born-again believers have a Christian worldview. That means over 90% of us have been seduced into a pursuit of the same materialistic goals as our unbelieving neighbors. Over 40% have never given the first dime to the Lord’s work. Is that the off road way?
Family. He puts his wife and family first, serving them before himself. The off road man fulfills his role as the spiritual head of his family.
Social life. The off road man can be in the crowd but not of it. For him, some groups of guys just don’t measure up to his convictions in speech, and behavior. He refuses to be known as one of the crowd, a conformist or everyday kind of man.
Relationally. One of the most important characteristics of the off road man is his commitment to a band of brothers. To go it alone is not an option.
The off road man is the kind of man who leaves his mark for the next generation. He is remembered for his courage and boldness in staying off the wide path. My own father was one of those kinds of men. While not perfect he did his best to live a life a cut above his peers in speech and conduct. I admire him more every day for the guts it took to be a man committed to the narrow way.
Is there a benefit to going down the narrow path, the off road? Ask any man who has traveled down that road. See if they regret having found true life, meaning, purpose and significance. They are not fooled into believing that the easy road leads to anything but disaster and heartache. Rather, they know that although the road is sometimes tough it leads to far better places and blessings.
How about you? Are you one of the few who will “find it”? Get off the “freeway”. Make the decision and tell another man.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
It's time for Breakfast
Click on the ad for information on the next New Hope Men's Breakfast with special friends from Latus Motors. Yours truley will be speaking on "What kind of man is an Offroad Man?".
Thursday, August 21, 2008
What REALLY goes on in our brains?
Some of you guys have seen Mark Gungor in his video series "Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage. Here is a video excerpt on the subject of man's vs women's brains. LOL!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Why so Competitive, we men?
Are You Comparing, Competing, or Connecting?
Why are men so competitive and stand offish? Kenny Luck offers some insight. He is Pastor of Men's Ministries for Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Ca. Click on the title above to read Kenny's thoughts. Lets drop our "guard' and let some folks in.
Why are men so competitive and stand offish? Kenny Luck offers some insight. He is Pastor of Men's Ministries for Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Ca. Click on the title above to read Kenny's thoughts. Lets drop our "guard' and let some folks in.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Saddle Up Men!
Guys – notice the huge men’s event happening in Redmond, Oregon this next month – HIGH DESERT MEN’S SUMMIT, Saturday, September 13th, Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center. An awesome slate of speakers is listed including Gov. Mike Huckabee, governor of Arkansas and former candidate for president.
Full details can be found in the August issue of the Christian News Northwest, available at NH or visit the event website at http://www.hdsummit.org/ .
The Long Hollow Ranch, just a few miles away is offering for a very limited number of men, luxurious bed and breakfast accommodations for $110 per person for one night or $200 for 2 nights. Stay at the ranch and experience the feel of a working guest ranch plus take in the Summit for one awesome weekend. Visit the ranch website at http://www.lhranch.com/ to get a view of this historic Oregon ranch that is being used and supported by several people at New Hope.
If you are interested in this offer for the Summit call or email Dennis D at New Hope by August 15th. dennisd@newhopecommunitychurch.org . If you miss this offer consider registering for the Summit and grabbing other fine accommodations in Redmond, Sisters or Bend.
Full details can be found in the August issue of the Christian News Northwest, available at NH or visit the event website at http://www.hdsummit.org/ .
The Long Hollow Ranch, just a few miles away is offering for a very limited number of men, luxurious bed and breakfast accommodations for $110 per person for one night or $200 for 2 nights. Stay at the ranch and experience the feel of a working guest ranch plus take in the Summit for one awesome weekend. Visit the ranch website at http://www.lhranch.com/ to get a view of this historic Oregon ranch that is being used and supported by several people at New Hope.
If you are interested in this offer for the Summit call or email Dennis D at New Hope by August 15th. dennisd@newhopecommunitychurch.org . If you miss this offer consider registering for the Summit and grabbing other fine accommodations in Redmond, Sisters or Bend.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Lets make doers and followers not just churches
The following is a great quote from Ralph Winters on the need to balance evangelism with solid discipleship.
“Evangelism is the highest priority, but it becomes weak and lacks credibility if it does not generate committed believers who will tackle the world’s problem. What is the use of evangelism if it produces Christians who don’t act, who don’t do, who don’t follow God’s will? All they do is sing in church. It is what happens in the world that is at least as important as what happens in church. We are getting fancier and fancier at church worship. We know how to do church, [but] we don’t know how to be the church.”
Ralph D. Winter, founder of the U.S. Center for World Mission speaking at the Korea World Mission Conference 2008 [christianpost.com, 7/30/08]
Quote courtesy of Ministry Today.
“Evangelism is the highest priority, but it becomes weak and lacks credibility if it does not generate committed believers who will tackle the world’s problem. What is the use of evangelism if it produces Christians who don’t act, who don’t do, who don’t follow God’s will? All they do is sing in church. It is what happens in the world that is at least as important as what happens in church. We are getting fancier and fancier at church worship. We know how to do church, [but] we don’t know how to be the church.”
Ralph D. Winter, founder of the U.S. Center for World Mission speaking at the Korea World Mission Conference 2008 [christianpost.com, 7/30/08]
Quote courtesy of Ministry Today.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Pat Morley on Total Global Conquest
You may have heard of Pat Morley from his famous "The Man in the Mirror" book and the men's ministry organization that he founded by the same name. He has taught a weekly Bible Study for men in Orlando, Florida for years. Recently he has been teaching on the theme of Jesus’ Secret Strategy for Total Global Conquest called "Hanging Out With Jesus". The following messages are worth downloading or streaming to further see the power of discipling one man at a time.
"Staking Success on Twelve Ordinary Men"
6/20/2008
THE BIG IDEA: If you really want to change the world, pour yourself into a few men who know why you’re pouring. –
"NEW Study Reveals Jesus’ Secret Strategy for Total Global Conquest!"
"NEW Study Reveals Jesus’ Secret Strategy for Total Global Conquest!"
3/28/2008
THE BIG IDEA: His strategy was, and is, to invest in men who will invest in other men.
Click on the following link to go to the Man in the Mirror message archive and find these messages. http://www.maninthemirror.org/biblestudy/series/hanging.htm
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Possessing Nothing to Possess All
Possessing Nothing to Possess All
Guys, link to this article on a great man of God, A.W. Tozer. This review is about his life and his awesome classic, The Pursuit of God. You will do well to add this to your reading list. It truly describes the "off road man".
dd
Guys, link to this article on a great man of God, A.W. Tozer. This review is about his life and his awesome classic, The Pursuit of God. You will do well to add this to your reading list. It truly describes the "off road man".
dd
Monday, July 14, 2008
What's our strategy for winning the world?
Philosophy of Men’s Ministry
New Hope Community Church
7/15/08
MISSION
Encourage men to take the next step in an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ with the help and support from other men.
VISION
50% of the men associated with NH connected into a disciple relationship or small groups.
and their lives transformed into the likeness of Christ. (Rom. 8:29; 12:2, 2 Tim. 2:2)
STRATEGY
Develop environments where men can connect and begin disciple relationships.
Examples:
Men's Prayer Saturday Morning Breakfast Meeting “Men Serving Men”
New Hope Community Church
7/15/08
MISSION
Encourage men to take the next step in an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ with the help and support from other men.
VISION
50% of the men associated with NH connected into a disciple relationship or small groups.
and their lives transformed into the likeness of Christ. (Rom. 8:29; 12:2, 2 Tim. 2:2)
STRATEGY
Develop environments where men can connect and begin disciple relationships.
Examples:
Men's Prayer Saturday Morning Breakfast Meeting “Men Serving Men”
Paintball
Fight Club
Promise Keepers
Fight Club
Promise Keepers
Martial Arts Training: HapKiDo
June Conference (’08 The Role of the Man)
Regional Conference at RHCC
CORE STRATEGY – “72 Church”
Our primary strategy is the same as Jesus. He recruited 12 men, which became 72, then 500, etc. His method was to pour Himself into the 12 so that they could reproduce themselves in the next generation. He did not use breakfasts, Sunday Schools, worship, or anything else other than to disciple the 12.
Currently, we have a dozen key leaders (“Brotherhood of the Hook”) who are committing themselves to the Pastor of Men’s Ministry and to develop their own “branch” of disciples (John 15: 5). At the present, the total number of men in those branches is approximately 50-70 men. This does not include those men in our men’s community groups, men’s step groups and other ministry connections such as Married Life, Student Ministries, etc.
How big is the total ministry to men? Answer=the number of men associated with NH. The total constituent number is 8000 people. If ½ of that are men we have 4000 men as a constituent base. We have a long way to go to see that 50% of these are connected at the “family” level of community.
But consider this formula: one man, discipling one new man each year. In 28 years that equals 5 Billion men. The critical factor is whether we will follow 2 Tim 2:2. If we think about it everyone can trace their spiritual heritage back to Peter or John or the other apostles. Jesus’ strategy to take over the world with the Kingdom was simply to invest Himself in men who He knew would invest in other men. If we want to grow the Kingdom of believers we cannot resort to addition but multiplication. We must do it the same way that Jesus did it, pouring ourselves into other men who know why we are pouring.
Note: In the NT you rarely see men in “groups” as we promote the idea today. What we do see is one to one or one to a few for intentional discipleship.
OTHER RESOURCES
NHCC website Men’s page – “Offroadmen”
www.t-men.com – Men’s materials and resources for spiritual growth
www.offroadmen.blogspot.com (Dennis’ personal blog for men’s events, stories, resources)
June Conference (’08 The Role of the Man)
Regional Conference at RHCC
CORE STRATEGY – “72 Church”
Our primary strategy is the same as Jesus. He recruited 12 men, which became 72, then 500, etc. His method was to pour Himself into the 12 so that they could reproduce themselves in the next generation. He did not use breakfasts, Sunday Schools, worship, or anything else other than to disciple the 12.
Currently, we have a dozen key leaders (“Brotherhood of the Hook”) who are committing themselves to the Pastor of Men’s Ministry and to develop their own “branch” of disciples (John 15: 5). At the present, the total number of men in those branches is approximately 50-70 men. This does not include those men in our men’s community groups, men’s step groups and other ministry connections such as Married Life, Student Ministries, etc.
How big is the total ministry to men? Answer=the number of men associated with NH. The total constituent number is 8000 people. If ½ of that are men we have 4000 men as a constituent base. We have a long way to go to see that 50% of these are connected at the “family” level of community.
But consider this formula: one man, discipling one new man each year. In 28 years that equals 5 Billion men. The critical factor is whether we will follow 2 Tim 2:2. If we think about it everyone can trace their spiritual heritage back to Peter or John or the other apostles. Jesus’ strategy to take over the world with the Kingdom was simply to invest Himself in men who He knew would invest in other men. If we want to grow the Kingdom of believers we cannot resort to addition but multiplication. We must do it the same way that Jesus did it, pouring ourselves into other men who know why we are pouring.
Note: In the NT you rarely see men in “groups” as we promote the idea today. What we do see is one to one or one to a few for intentional discipleship.
OTHER RESOURCES
NHCC website Men’s page – “Offroadmen”
www.t-men.com – Men’s materials and resources for spiritual growth
www.offroadmen.blogspot.com (Dennis’ personal blog for men’s events, stories, resources)
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Keep goin' to church dads!
Does going to church make you a better dad?
Check out this factoid:
Christianity makes men better fathers, according to a study by Bradford Wilcox, a sociology professor at the University of Virginia. Wilcox examined three national studies and found that men who attended church regularly had stronger marriages and were more involved in the lives of their children. Seventy percent of church-attending men reported being “very happy” in their marriages, while only 59 percent of men who did not attend church reported being happy in their marriages. Christian fathers also spent more one-on-one time with their children and were 65 percent more likely to hug and praise their children. [onenewsnow.com, 6/30/08]
Check out this factoid:
Christianity makes men better fathers, according to a study by Bradford Wilcox, a sociology professor at the University of Virginia. Wilcox examined three national studies and found that men who attended church regularly had stronger marriages and were more involved in the lives of their children. Seventy percent of church-attending men reported being “very happy” in their marriages, while only 59 percent of men who did not attend church reported being happy in their marriages. Christian fathers also spent more one-on-one time with their children and were 65 percent more likely to hug and praise their children. [onenewsnow.com, 6/30/08]
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Real "Offroad" Men
Dennis Engman, one of our men’s leaders invited a few guys to join him on a weekend campout on the White River last month. It turned into seven guys anxious to rough camp in the most out-of-the way place they could find. Packed with firearms, ammo, tents, food and cooking gear and the help of an ATV they set up camp in the bottom of the river canyon. For three days and nights they shot up pop cans, hiked, chased around with the ATV, and told tall stories –generally just shared life and Jesus. Dennis says that this has sort of been a tradition each year, just getting the guys together and lettin’ loose. (Note "gun totin" Rod Marsh!) Way to go guys! This is what being a “band of brothers” is all about, seeking after our true hearts as men of adventure and mission. See more pics on the campout at http://picasaweb.google.com/roger.penn/Camping_memorial_day_08?authkey=JxzR_WtsKP8
Got a tale of your band of brothers?Let me hear about it and post it. Post a comment to this article or email me at dennisd@newhopecommunitychurch.org .
Got a tale of your band of brothers?Let me hear about it and post it. Post a comment to this article or email me at dennisd@newhopecommunitychurch.org .
Saturday, June 21, 2008
The Brotherhood of the Hook
Tom Abalan just had to show off his “fish hook” lapel pin to me the other day. As usual Tom expressed a lot of passion about its meaning. He is a passionate guy in general but the hook thing is right on! He wears the pin as a discussion starter but most importantly for what it says about his heart. He has a heart for men. He wants to “hook” them for Jesus. He wants to see their lives turned around and made “alive, alert, and enthusiastic”.
The fishhook pin has been around for a long time and has been used to symbolize various ministries but seeing it the other day on Tom’s lapel brought a fresh revelation to me about the essential mission of men’s ministry. Just like Jesus we to need to be “fishers of men”, hooking men and saving them from the “slough of despond”. What is that? Here’s the definition:
1. a place, as a hollow, full of soft, deep mud
2. Etymology: after Slough of Despond, a deep swamp in Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress
deep, hopeless dejection or discouragement
3. moral degradation
4. a swamp, bog, or marsh, esp. one that is part of an inlet or backwater
(Thanks to http://www.yourdictionary.com/slough)
Men don’t often know that they need to be “hooked”. The “slough” has engulfed their lives to the point that they think its just their natural environment. Not until they get hooked by Jesus and brought to the surface do they realize that life can be better.
How about joining Tom and the rest of us in the “Brotherhood of the fishhook”. If you want to be about hooking guys and helping them follow Jesus, ask Tom for a pin. You can reach him at tom@letstalkhouses.com . Lets go fishing!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Dennis Puleo: One Man's Decision; A Machine Gunner's Story
Here's a great testimony that many of you hard working, press hard, make it while you can, survive anything types will enjoy. Dennis beat the odds but it finally ( or should we say the Holy Spirit) brought him to his senses. He is now traveling as a speaking consultant for Man in the Mirror Ministries. You'll enjoy. Beware! He doesn't pull any punches because he knows what he is talking about.
Click on this link and scroll to 3/14/2008; Dennis Puleo: One Man's Decision A Machine Gunner's Story
http://www.maninthemirror.org/biblestudy/series.htm#archive
Click on this link and scroll to 3/14/2008; Dennis Puleo: One Man's Decision A Machine Gunner's Story
http://www.maninthemirror.org/biblestudy/series.htm#archive
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Hey, Where are the Barbarians?!
Erwin McManus, pastor, teacher, and writer is upsetting the civility of our religion! How dare he challenge our expectations of a life full of prosperity and security. Where does he get off thinking that Jesus didn’t just die so that we can “build our havens”? Or do we have it wrong?
When you think about it why would Jesus endure the cross just so that we could have a peace plan with God and the easy life? The tragedy is that a number of us who call Jesus Lord have become so domesticated and civilized that we have lost the passion and power of that raw, untamed, and primal faith that Jesus really died to give us.
Christianity has become docile, domesticated and civilized. We have forgotten that there is a kingdom of darkness stealing the hopes and dreams of humanity, that the man who signs on with Jesus is not a gentleman but a barbarian warrior!
If you dare to look at who you are really called to be as a Christian, then this book is for you. If you prefer to hold on to your comfort plan with God then don’t bother. It will make you too upset.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
HOG HEAVEN BREAKFAST!
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What a feast of stomach, soul, and spirit! Our May 17th Men’s Breakfast had approximately 100 guys turn out to see the most beautiful Harleys you could ever lay your eyes on, ate stacks of pancakes and sausage and then topped it off with a great testimony from Bill Blackburn, former Vietnam era Navy pilot turned counselor businessmen and pastor.
Bill shared his story of God’s redemption from a life headed in all the wrong ways and how he has now found the right path to wholeness and the “true measure” of manhood. He challenged us to also find our own identity and measure from Jesus and the word of God.
Our Lead Pastor Ray was also on hand to encourage us to get connected into men’s groups. He reminded us of the next Group Link in August as a great way to find a group. Thanks also to our Young Adult Pastor Mike Magura for the personal anecdote on “getting your lawn mowed” (or how to let other guys into your life and “turf”).
For a first hand look at some of the best Harleys around we thank Latus Motors. Check them out if you want to ride in style.
And as always, much appreciation goes to Tom Abalan, Ted Hartzel and the crew for “serving us men”.
The next Breakfast will be September 13th. See you next month at The Role of the Man Seminar, June 6,7th (see the previous post).
Sunday, May 11, 2008
STRAIGHT TALK ON A MAN'S ROLE IN LIFE
Guys - you must take this opportunity to hear one of the best teachings on what God says about manhood. Click on the link and then go to the registration button and reserve your place. This seminar is being co-sponsored by several men's ministries in our area. It will be touring in only 10 other cities in America this year. Don't be bummed and miss it! Do it now!
Also check out http://www.t-men.com for a short video on the speaker David Mclaughlin.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
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MAY MEN'S BREAKFAST
MEN SERVING MENSATURDAY, MAY 17, 2008 7:30AM -9:00AM
(In the Fellowship Hall and Gym)
WITH GUEST SPEAKER: BILL BLACKBURN
Bill will be speaking on his past and present walk with the Lord and the importance of accountability.
Bring your appetite, and invite your friends and neighbors!
Latus Motors Harley-Davidson and the Harley boys will be there with a great collection of motorcycles to look at. You won’t want to miss it!*
Volunteers are needed. Contact Tom Abalan at 503.939.7002 to get involved.*A $5 donation will help cover the costs of breakfast.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
THE ULTIMATE MEN’S MINISTRY
What is the ultimate goal for New Hope’s men’s ministry? - To see every man become like Jesus. This is the “bottom line” will of God for each if us. He has no greater plan than each of us be conformed to His image (Rom.8:29).
How does this happen? Just as Jesus personally discipled a few, select men we must do the same. There is no better method than men personally discipling each other. The most powerful men’s program is more than breakfasts, retreats, or even small groups. It’s men engaging each other in simple life on life and being transformed by the Word and Spirit of God.
Jesus did not do pancake breakfasts to equip men nor did He do any retreats. What He did do was invite men – one here, two there, to follow Him. Neither was He trying to “plant a church” and set up weekly meetings. Rather, His strategy was simply to speak into a few men’s lives to the extent that they would learn to go out and do the same. He taught them by example and narrative in a simple way that was very transferable. He taught and modeled character, conduct and biblical values. As He trained the 12 they became the 72, then the 500 and on and on.
Just how efficient is this method? Consider the following: There are two strategies to win people to Christ. One is to win 10 people to Christ each day. That’s 300 a month, 3600 a year. In thirty years the total would be an impressive 108,000 people saved.
Another is to win one person to the Lord in a year and to carefully disciple this individual. By this careful discipling that person should be able go out and win someone else to Christ. Year number two finds two people, each one, winning one person to the Lord and carefully discipling each new convert. Each subsequent year it doubles again and by the 28th year over 5 billion people will have been discipled - basically, the world’s population. Unfortunately, if at any point we loose the focus it can derail the multiplication process, but this shows the great potential for discipling new believers and sending them out to disciple others.
If we would just follow Jesus’ simple and effective example for our ministry to men we would see more of them transformed into His likeness. We need men who will obey the final word and command of Jesus – “Go, make disciples…” (Matt. 28:19,20)
If you are interested in becoming a disciple of Jesus or to disciple other men contact any of the following NH Men’s leaders contact me; Dennis Deardorff, dennisd@newhopecommuntychurch.org or make a comment to this post.
How does this happen? Just as Jesus personally discipled a few, select men we must do the same. There is no better method than men personally discipling each other. The most powerful men’s program is more than breakfasts, retreats, or even small groups. It’s men engaging each other in simple life on life and being transformed by the Word and Spirit of God.
Jesus did not do pancake breakfasts to equip men nor did He do any retreats. What He did do was invite men – one here, two there, to follow Him. Neither was He trying to “plant a church” and set up weekly meetings. Rather, His strategy was simply to speak into a few men’s lives to the extent that they would learn to go out and do the same. He taught them by example and narrative in a simple way that was very transferable. He taught and modeled character, conduct and biblical values. As He trained the 12 they became the 72, then the 500 and on and on.
Just how efficient is this method? Consider the following: There are two strategies to win people to Christ. One is to win 10 people to Christ each day. That’s 300 a month, 3600 a year. In thirty years the total would be an impressive 108,000 people saved.
Another is to win one person to the Lord in a year and to carefully disciple this individual. By this careful discipling that person should be able go out and win someone else to Christ. Year number two finds two people, each one, winning one person to the Lord and carefully discipling each new convert. Each subsequent year it doubles again and by the 28th year over 5 billion people will have been discipled - basically, the world’s population. Unfortunately, if at any point we loose the focus it can derail the multiplication process, but this shows the great potential for discipling new believers and sending them out to disciple others.
If we would just follow Jesus’ simple and effective example for our ministry to men we would see more of them transformed into His likeness. We need men who will obey the final word and command of Jesus – “Go, make disciples…” (Matt. 28:19,20)
If you are interested in becoming a disciple of Jesus or to disciple other men contact any of the following NH Men’s leaders contact me; Dennis Deardorff, dennisd@newhopecommuntychurch.org or make a comment to this post.
Monday, May 5, 2008
THE NEXT GREAT HEALING BOOK
The next great book to offer inner healing and deeper relationship with God is here:
The Shack
It will jerk your paradigms and probably wet your eyes in a good way. It is a story everyone can relate to but especially guys - like all of us who carry battle wounds from life and are trying to survive. This book may become bigger than The Purpose Driven Life because it strikes at the core of our need to know our "papa" better. http://theshackbook.com/
Saturday, May 3, 2008
GREAT BOOKS FOR DISCIPLES
John Eldredge, Walking with God
I have found another great book for basic spiritual growth. If you enjoyed Wild at Heart by John Eldredge you will also enjoy his latest entitled Walking with God. At the core of being a disciple or follower of Jesus is the ability to listen to Him. If we can’t listen to Jesus how do we think that we can follow Him? As Jesus began His earthly ministry He was first tested in this basic discipline, listening to God. When enticed by the enemy to take matters into His own hands Jesus responds, “…people must feed on every word of God.” (Matt. 4:4).
Eldredge writes from his own journal how he has personally learned to listen to God. In a very transparent way he shows how he worked through the things that keep us all from even hearing God. He dealt with such things as disappointments, fears, sorrows, guidance, desires and getting his heart in the place where it could find true joy. Most of us are good believers but are we good followers? The book is one of the best in helping to develop this basic skill as a follower of Jesus.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Testimony from Larry Millington
Larry is a guy who has really shown what it takes to get off the highway of personal destruction. He presented his story at the last New Hope Men's Breakfast, April 12, 2008. He is speaking on the importance of having an accountability partner in getting “off road.” To read, click on Larry's picture.
Introductions
Introducing myself
Oregon has been my home all my life. I am a descendant of Oregon Trail pioneers and grew up on a portion of the original Deardorff land claim of 1851. I attended schools in Happy Valley and Clackamas, Oregon and then went on to Oregon State University to prepare for a career in veterinary medicine. But while at OSU I realized God had another direction for my life and that was to serve in full time ministry. I sensed that God wanted me to work for things that would transcend this life. Matthew 6:33 became my guiding scripture.
I went on to earn a BS in Psychology in 1969 from Cascade College, in Portland (not to be confused with the current college with the same name) and then on to complete a Master of Divinity in 1974 from Western Evangelical Seminary, now a department of George Fox University.
While at Cascade College I began serving in youth ministry at Trinity Community Church in Portland. I went on to become the pastor of the church from 1974 through 1988. Since January of 1989 I have been on the pastoral staff of New Hope Community Church also in Portland. I began serving there as a District Pastor, shepherding the members and managing the small groups in a geographic region. Since 1996 my responsibilities have also included serving as Pastor of Adult and Men’s Ministries and most recently Point Person for the Community Development Project.
My role as Pastor of Men’s Ministries has been the most rewarding. I have had the opportunity to be involved with regional Promise Keepers leadership teams and the National Coalition of Men’s Ministries. In 2006 I began T Men Ministries as a resource for sharing training and group study materials that I have developed or helped create since that time.
I have always made it a priority in my ministry to be leading and discipling men. There is no greater joy than to see men growing spiritually and leading other men in the same process. 2 Timothy 2:2 has been my guiding scripture in teaching the truth to trustworthy men who will also teach others. The goal is to see men be transformed into the likeness of Christ. (Rom. 8:29; 12:2)
While ministry in the Lord is important it does not supercede my devotion to my family. I have been married to my wonderful wife Shirley since 1965 and through our marriage God has given me three married daughters and eleven (yes eleven!) grandchildren. One of my delights and blessings has been to see my own family all walking in the Lord.
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