Baby Prayers: Week Six

Our baby is 6 weeks old, and tiny, ranging in size from 0.08 to 0.16 inches (2 to 4 mm) from the top of the head to the bottom of the rump because legs have not yet begun to grow.

Growth is slow, but this is the most important growth stage of your pregnancy. Early brain formation begins, the eyes begin to develop, and tiny buds that will grow into arms and legs appear. In many babies, the heart begins to contract during this week and actually starts to beat, but it will be a while yet before you can feel that.

Father in Heaven, thank you for the miracle of pregnancy. Thank you for answering our prayers. Thank you for blessing both Jennifer and I. You are our source for strength, power, protection, and blessing. We come to You and ask for Your hand and Your protection in this sixth week of our pregnancy. You know our baby. You know that this is the week that has early brain formation. May that formation be perfect and beautiful. May our baby's brain be filled with the knowledge of God and the understanding of Your ways. Lord, you know that this week the eyes begin to develop. May our baby fix its eyes on You - the Creator, the author and perfector of our faith. May our baby seek you with all of its heart. This week the arms and legs begin to bud. May our baby have healthy limbs that will be used to reach out to the broken and lost. May our baby's legs be healthy and whole, used to walk in the paths You have designed. And Lord, you know that the heart begins to beat this week. Lord, give our baby a healthy heart. May it beat and be healthy. Keep it strong. Father God, protect our baby.

And Lord, you know all about Jennifer's body. You know what is needed to keep the baby protected and healthy. I ask for divine favor in Jenn's body. Keep it strong, and in tact. Strengthen her in every way. We ask for your help. We seek your blessing. Because You are our God, and our hearts are fixed to You. Thank you for grace. Thank you for divine favor. We are in love with You.

Love Brian

S.T.I.R. day thirteen: Micro-Macro

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 13:3 "The Kingdom of Heaven is like yeast used by a woman making bread. Even though she used a large amount of flour, the yeast permeated every part of the dough."

T.eaching: The Kingdom of Heaven can do more than people think.

I.mpact: I must operate in faith expecting more impact.

R.esponse: Father, You sent Jesus to bring Your Kingdom to earth and I am so thankful. I pray that the effectiveness of Your Kingdom be displayed in the lives of our students who so desperately need You. I love You. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day twelve: Words

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 12:36-37 "And I tell you this, that you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say now reflect your fate then, either you will be justified by them or condemned."

T.eaching: What we do now will determine our eternity - even in the words we use.

I.mpact: My words matter to God. I must choose carefully what I say and what I choose to speak about.

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, help me to be a life-giving person who speaks correctly as a man of faith. May my encouragement and rebukes be done in ways that glorify the Father. I love You. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day eleven: Discomfort vs. Discernment

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 11:7-9 "Who is this man in the wilderness that you went out to see? Did you find him weak as a reed, moved by every breath of wind? Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? Those who dress like that live in palaces, not out in the wilderness. Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet.

T.eaching: Jesus was showing people that God doesn't always do things the way we expect him to.

I.mpact: I must refuse to reject things because they make me uncomfortable. There is a big difference between discernment and discomfort.

R.esponse: Jesus, soften my heart to your ways. I love You. Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day ten: Toughened & Loved

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 10:31 "So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows.

T.eaching: All of Matthew 10 is about the call and cost of being a disciple - it's hard to read at times - but sprinkled throughout Matt 10 are verses that keep reminding us how valuable we are to God.

I.mpact: I must never forget the importance of showing people how valuable they are to God - even when it's a tough message.

R.esponse: Father, thank you for reminding us how much You love us and how valuable we are to You. May I be reminded about not just the call and cost, but my value to You as well. I love You. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day nine: Never Quit

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 9:27-28 "After Jesus left the girl's home, two blind men followed along behind him, shouting, "Son of David, have mercy on us!" They went right into the house where he was staying, and Jesus asked them, Do you believe I can make you see?"

T.eaching: It appears that Jesus didn't stop for them when they first called out, but they refused to be denied, and proved to Jesus their passion for Him.

I.mpact: I MUST continually cry out for revival, healing, salvation of souls and more - for God is looking for faith-filled, consistant, non-stop asking.

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, I ask now for your involvement and supernatural power to be release in Jennifer and in the students you have entrusted to us. Lord release your love and power I pray. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Summer S.T.I.R day eight: Expect It

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

Wednesday, June 25

S.cripture: Matthew 8:26 "And Jesus answered, "Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!" Then he stood up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly all was calm."

T.eaching: Jesus showed his divine authority and his expectation for us to walk in faith.

I.mpact: I'm reminded once again of the authority I must have in the Name of Jesus to rebuke and refuse anything anti-God to take place.

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, Thank you for conquering darkness and giving us the authority to bind, loose, and break the darkness. I choose to live out my day in faith rather than fear. I love You

Love Brian

Shhhhhh

I have a secret.

Summer S.T.I.R. day seven: Inward Focus

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1-2 says "Beloved, I now write to you...in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 7:5 "Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye!

T.eaching: Focus on yourself first, rather than focusing on other's faults

I.mpact: I don't have time to go around pointing out everyone's flaws. I must continually be aware of my need for Jesus. There's so much judging of things like the Lakeland Florida Revival, but if we all could just focus on being hungry for God we will be fine.

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, help me to see the good in people, and to stay honest about my own condition. I love You Lord. Love Brian

I preached Sunday

Sunday, June 25th was my third straight Sunday preaching. I preached from Nehemiah 4 and titled the message: "LIVE". One of the best ways to deal with opposition, offenses, betrayal, and hope deferred, is to simply LIVE, rather than spend all your time focusing on the problems we face. Nehemiah said "Stop worrying about your enemies - for our God is great and glorious!" You can listen to the message here

Summer S.T.I.R. day five: Don't just look at it

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1 says "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 5:1 "And seeing the multitudes He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.

T.eaching: What Jesus saw compelled Him to move - and He moved up.

I.mpact: I fully recognize that what I see must compel me to move - both in the real of communication and helping people, and in the realm of moving up - being closer to God and lifting the lid of my calling.

R.esponse: Thank you. Thank you for awakening my Spirit, for answering prayers, and giving me the opportunity to go up and meet with Yu and communicate more clearly. I love You Jesus. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day four: Expect Big Results

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1 says "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 4:24b ...And whatever their illness and pain, or if they were possessed by demons, or were epileptics, or were paralyzed - he healed them all.

T.eaching: Nothing was too big or is too big for Jesus to heal. But Jesus has sent us out - so nothin should be too big for us to pray for and see miraculous fruit.

I.mpact: I should never look at a situation and think I can't help because the same power that raised Christ from the dead now dwells in me. There must be a new expectation and level of faith in my life!

R.esponse: Dear Jesus - help me understand how to live that I may be able to minister to anyone in Your Name that is above every other name. Use me in both conversations and prayer for healing to being a vessel that breaks the grip of the enemy on people's lives. I love You Lord. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day three: Approved then Sent

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1 says "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

S.cripture: Matthew 3:17 And a vouice fom heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with him."

T.eaching: Before Jesus went into the wilderness, before Jesus was severely tempted, before he started his main ministry - He received the affirmation of Father God.

I.mpact: I must never forget the power of affirming and lifting up those under me. That power can sustain them and hlep them become who God called them to be.

R.esponse: Lord, even today help me to be an encourager - someone who even brags to the masses about the students You have entrusted to me. I love you Jesus. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day two: Listen - More

All Summer long our youth ministry, Switch, is going "GOSPELICIOUS". We reading through all the gospels in 90 days and each day we S.T.I.R. it up based on the one verse that really hit us hard that day. 2 Peter 3:1 says "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior..." so that's where we got the STIR idea from - that reading Scripture should "stir" us up. Enjoy!

THEME: Can You Hear Me Now?

S.cripture: "When Heord died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and told him, "Get up..." ...So Joseph returned immediately." Matthew 2:19-20a,21a

T.eaching: Joseph was able to hear God speak to him, and when he heard - he obeyed.

I.mpact: I wonder if God wnats to speak to me more in different ways like in dreams, but because my mind is so full of other stuff it becomes harder to hear His voice...

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, Help me to listen closely and to keep my thoughts fixed on You so that I can go where You want me to go and hear the things You want me to hear. I will focus more on You today. Love Brian

Summer S.T.I.R. day one: Save

Each day, one of the youth staff will be posting their S.T.I.R. from the Switch Summer Challenge Books on myspace.

Yesterday, this was my post. I think I'll keep blogging my S.T.I.R.'s all summer long.

THEME: SAVE

S.cripture: Matthew 1:21 "And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."

T.eaching: Jesus' primary focus was to save people from their sins.

I.mpact: Sometimes I forget the magnitude of what life in Christ is all about. It's simply not debateable - He came to save me from my sin not just to make me happy or bless me - those things are great but following Christ means so much more!

R.esponse: Dear Jesus, help me to have the right perspective of living for You. I don't want to take You for granted. Thank you for saving me from my sin! I love you.

Love Brian