"For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba Father!"

"Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death."

what Midtown is studying

Recent predominant trends in what lifegroups at Midtown are studying:

Crazy Love

Romans

Forgotten God

(Daniel/Esther/Galatians/Ephesians tied for 4th)

A significant amount of groups are currently learning from these.

Holy Spirit inspired? I think so.

5 lessons learned from 5 minute speeches

Every Wednesday at 2:30, I give a 5 minute speech covering a variety of subjects and styles to whomever is in the office. The exercise was given to me in order to help me grow as a communicator. Thus far, I’ve given a persuasive speech and done a stand-up comedy routine (yep, you read that right). Here’s what I’ve learned so far:

1. I use 5 sentences to say what can be said in 2.
2. Its important to lead in strong. First impressions are everything, and often mine is sheepish.
3. I talk really quick and need to slow down.
4. I care way too much about what other people think of me which causes stress and anxiety during preparation <— that would be sin, by the way. (I’ve noticed I’m more apt in these situations to remain focused on my ability instead of repenting)
5. I can fake confidence in front of people - I’m yet to decide if that’s good or not.

Even though these exercises have caused me some duress, I actually think I like them. We’ll see if that stays the case…

reflection from #snowinsc2010

#snowinsc2010 has been fun. However, since I rarely see it in the South, its a good time to remember a few things before it goes away:

Through the prophet Isaiah, God says, “Though your sins are scarlet, they will be white as snow…” (Isaiah 1:18).

David says to the Lord, “Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7)

Snow might be the clearest picture of undefiled purity we have. #snowinsc2010 reminds that God through Christ has made us as snow before Him now to stand!