God Answers Prayers

The second grade teacher, Mrs. Johnson, went around the room. "If you could buy anything you wanted at the dime store, what would it be?" Most of my classmates liked the idea of a Hershey's bar. Even though I was already a chocoholic, I had a different answer: "A Big Chief tablet so I could start writing my book!"

It's been a long time since second grade, but God finally answered the call He put on my heart to write a book. The circumstances that got this book published are not normal. Someday, I may share that story, but for now, I am thrilled to have this book designed to encourage Christ-followers. Please consider buying it for yourself, for your church library, for your women's small group study or Bible class... or bring me into speak on this new topic.

You can order the book through www.WinePressBooks.com or www.Amazon.com or through me!

The book is comprised of 52 short essays, suitable for a quick read or a devotional. One church in Texas is using it for a Bible class, so I've developed questions to ask at the end of each chapter. You have to get those from me.

Now, I'm off to find a Big Chief tablet so I can start my next book...

Inadequacy

Do you ever feel inadequate? I sure do. Although I try to concentrate my life on the obvious gifts God gave me, I still have to get places (no sense of direction) and eat (can't cook). A sense of embarrassment keeps me from listing all the other things I can't do.

When I focus on the things I can do (talk, listen, encourage), it helps me focus and be more productive. That feeling of inadequacy though, reminds me to surrender and pray. For instance, someone asked me to do something recently that made me feel uncomfortable. It wasn't anything immoral, illegal or out of bounds, just not something in my experiencce that sounded like a fun way to spend time. What made me feel inadequate was that I didn't have the words to explain in a kind way why I didn't want to do this.

Fortunately, God has put friends (and a smart mom) in my life who talk me through situations like this and give me wise counsel. They then remind me that we don't have to be adequate... we only have to serve the One who is.

Checking In

April was the craziest month on my record of life. I racked up three addresses in two states and lived in three states! It was fun, though. If I owe you a phone call, an email, an invoice or a report, now you know why. [Thank you for your patience!] I still feel as though I'm living out of a suitcase, and it might be that way awhile, as I sort out some possible long-term assignments or try to sell a house.

This week, you can hear me on morning radio again! If you live in Arizona, dial in a terrestrial station from 6-9 and listen. If you live out of state, go to www.myflr.org and then where it says, "Find a Station," click on an Arizona city, then scroll down to "Listen online." It's fun to be back on the air in broadcasting ministry. If you want to call in, the number is 1-800-776-1080.

Things are still tough for many people. So I feel blessed to have work in my field. If you are struggling, I want to encourage you to avoid stressing or worrying. God has a plan, and everything will work out. Enjoy your extended vacation. Now you have the time you always wanted. Clear out the clutter. Recycle, throw away, give away. Clean, exercise, read. Enjoy. Praise. Write a letter. Start a blog. Volunteer. Pray. And pray some more.

Interview With a Former Athiest

I met Brad White about 14 years ago when we both joined the National Speakers Association. Then, we went at least a decade with no contact. One day about a year ago, he emailed me and shared an amazing story. He has graciously allowed me to interview him so that you can be encouraged and blessed by his experiences, too.

LA: Brad, how did you come to decide you were an atheist?

BW: Although my parents were Christians, I had never had a personal connection or relationship with God during my childhood. So by the time I got to college and started making decisions for myself, I was 100% of the world.

I took a philosophy class that really made me question what I believed and what I didn't believe for the first time. I spent a lot of time soul searching, but in the end it was a purely intellectual decision for me. I concluded that either the universe and everything in it had always existed, or God has always existed and He made the universe.

I couldn't tangibly prove God...but I could tangibly prove the world. So, I placed my faith in what I could see and touch with my own hands...the world. It was then that I decided to become an atheist.

LA: What led you to start thinking that there may be a real living God?

BW: Fate. All the circumstances and "coincidences" leading up to finding and marrying my wife Sharon was fate. I resisted that conclusion for many years because of the obvious implications; fate would mean that there was a higher power orchestrating events in my life. When I finally accepted fate as a reality, I started to seek that "higher power."

LA: If we know someone who is an atheist, how should we approach him or her about spiritual matters?

BW: Just like there is not one type of Christian, there is not one type of Atheist. What I can tell you is that no canned approach, strategy, or series of arguments will work. Any attempt to convince them of a spiritual realm will be met with resistance. However, if you truly love the person and aren't solely out to "save" them, I have two recommended approaches.

1) Ask them about their beliefs. Ask them why they believe what they believe. Ask them to share with you their life experiences and how their life has led them to their current way of thinking.

The critical part of this approach is to NOT get into a debate, try to change their mind, etc. Don't listen for the perfect angle or opportunity to jump in and share your beliefs. Just listen with love; without judgment or criticism. Be a real friend who cares for them and is available to them...regardless of their beliefs.

It's God's job to convict their hearts and minds. At some point in your relationship, they might ask you about your beliefs. When they do, share just as they have done. But since you listened, they will be more open to hearing from you.

2) Love them without trying to change their mind. Serve them just as Jesus would do. Forgive them quickly when they hurt you. Be the type of person they would admire and respect. Walk the walk. Be real and transparent. Be a worthy representative of "Jesus" to them.

In other words, live your life such that they would recognize a positive difference in you worthy of emulating. It must be real...not a mask of perfection. Then, be ready for them to ask what causes you to be different. Explain your faith and let God take it from there.

LA: That is such good advice. We can follow your recommendations for anyone of little or no faith. How has your life changed since you became a believer?

BW: The biggest change has been my worldview of people and their value. When I was trying to be my own god, other people really didn't matter that much. Life was all about me; my happiness, my success, my glory. I had no mercy or compassion.

Since becoming a believer, I try to see people through God's eyes. I see other people as worthy of my love and attention. I have mercy and compassion for other people... because we have all been hurt and emotionally scarred. I try to love and serve other people. I'm quick to forgive and I treat other people with grace.

In this life, people are ALL that matters. It's been a complete 180 degree change in my life.

LA: Brad, I always thought you were a nice guy. But that really touches my heart. And it gets even better... Tell us about the two ministries you created.

BW: I have started two important ministries that I'm passionate about. The first ministry is Deeper Bible Studies (http://www.deeperbiblestudies.com/). I write and sell bible studies that are all about life changing, life application.

I started this ministry because I recognized a problem with many of the studies currently in the market. Too many Bible studies overwhelm people in their busy lives with lots of reading. They have questions that make no attempt to personalize the reading and they lack accountability. So, people get behind in the reading, cram to catch up, and then do it all over again.
The result is no real change.

My studies offer an alternative. For example, my 1 John study has 5 units to match the 5 chapters in 1 John. The reading for each unit takes less than 5 minutes. I write questions geared to help you personalize and apply the reading to your life. Then, each unit concludes with a "mini" action plan that each participant creates. These action plans are shared with the group and are followed up the next week for accountability.

It's a fresh approach that people really like...and they make a difference in people's lives. That's what makes it worthwhile for me.

My second ministry is called "Changing the Face of Christianity"
(http://www.changingthefaceofchristianity.com/). This is what I feel God has prepared me for and has led me to leave as a legacy of my life.

Non-believers have a highly negative perception of believers...I would know.
All too often, Christians come across as hypocritical, intolerant, anti-gay, intellectually "challenged," prideful, arrogant, judgmental and too political. This perception has been confirmed through research conducted by the Barna group (http://www.barna.org/), and documented in the book titled unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.

This negative perception is a stumbling block for non-believers. With such a negative perception, Christian missionary work, evangelism and outreach efforts to non-believers are met with resistance and contempt.

Our ministry's goal is to change that negative perception and pave the way or "prepare the field" for more palatable and effective evangelism. The change we are seeking is not a cosmetic or marketing/spin type change. Instead we are seeking life transformation in believers.

For every significant negative perception, there are volitional changes we can make to reverse the perception: consistency, openness, acceptance, humility, compassion, grace and unconditional love. Truly living the Christian faith and treating others as Jesus would is the essence of what we're after.

This is the new face of Christianity we seek. By changing our thoughts, actions, and words in accordance to essential Biblical teaching, non-believers will start to see a new face; a face that compels them to want to know the source of the change: Jesus Christ.

Here is the exciting part: IT IS POSSIBLE! Non-believers typically form their opinion and interest in Christianity through only a handful of Christian friends or acquaintances. If we live what we preach and act in accordance to our beliefs...we WILL change the world.

LA: How can people get involved?

1) You can join our cause. Visit http://www.changingthefaceofchristianity.com/ and sign-up to join the movement. We'll keep you informed of upcoming events and practical ways to make a difference in your own circle of influence.

2) We need Champions and Ambassadors to share the vision around the globe.

3) We need leaders and volunteers of all kinds to support the ministry and make it a reality. Email Brad@changingthefaceofchristianity.com with your desire to get involved, and we'll equip you to share the vision and find meaningful ways for you to serve the cause.

4) Sales of deeperbiblestudies.com Bible studies are used to partially fund this ministry, so please order your small group bible studies from our site.

LA: What would you like to add?

We have an abundantly loving, gracious and patient God. I'm humbled every day to think how far away from Him I ran, and how quickly and joyfully he accepted me when I returned to Him.
If we will surrender ourselves to His purposes and will for our lives, He will transform us into Christlikeness and use us to bring glory to His kingdom.

LA: Brad, thank you for sharing your life and your ministries. I am excited to see how God is using you and your talents!

Today Could Be the Day!

Here in the Peach State, the Georgia Lottery's commercials are surrounded by a catchy jingle, "Today Could Be the Day!" I'm guessing the Lottery team wants you to think today is the day you could win big money... if you play the game.

As a Christian, "Today Could Be the Day" has a different meaning to me. Today could be the day that:

• God has a special surprise planned.
• I lead someone to faith in Jesus!
• I help someone who needs it.
• I grow closer to God.
• I grow more mature and wise in my faith.
• Jesus returns!

And those are all better options. Today could be your day to _________! Fill in the blank... play the Believer game... and win no matter what your numbers are.

Are You a Faith Olympian?

To say the stories of the Olympic athletes are inspiring is an understatement. They can teach us to be gold medalists in our faith contest.

1. Olympians don't give up. Despite injuries, falls, personal tragedy, they keep their eyes on the goal. We can keep our eyes on Heaven. And we can never give up on bringing others to Christ.

2. Olympians do whatever it takes. Did you see the stories about cross-training? Skaters work out in the gym and jog. Skiers ride bikes. We need to be cross-disciplined, too. We need to pray, study, attend church--whatever it takes.

3. Olympians support their team. It's not all about the individual; it's also about national pride. Are we supporting our home team? Or are we gossiping, cutting each other down and being critical of ministry efforts? Support your team with encouragement, prayer and love.

4. Olympians sacrifice. The stories about parents giving up everything to provide training for their children get to me. Then the athletes themselves sacrifice their time, their diets and more. What are we giving up for the cause of Christ?

I will never stand on the podium and hear my country's anthem. But I hope to hear something even more special one day: "Well done, good and faithful servant." How about you?

Witness

Our church chooses a theme each year. We have a theme verse, and the sermons support the theme. Last year, the theme was so appropriate, and it was chosen months before the downfall in the economy! It was "Unshakeable."

This year, it is "Witness." The tagline is "Walk, Talk, Live the Light." The theme verse is "There came a man, sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every man, was coming into the world." John 1:6-9

Yesterday, our preacher talked about what it means to be a witness. He says we have a passive and active witness. I'm eager to see how this challenge will unfold in 2010.

I have a girlfriend who chooses an inspirational theme for herself each year. Two years ago, it was "Be great in 2008!" What is your theme for this year? What is your theme scripture for this year?

The Spiritual Weight Room

Our preacher encouraged us Sunday to get in the spiritual weight room if we wanted spiritual growth. He said people had to see us sweat to see Jesus. Hmmm, I'm pretty sure he was being figurative because when people see me sweat on the running trail, I don't think it makes them think of Jesus.

My husband was listening closely. A few minutes after the sermon, we took our friend to check out of her hotel room. While I was helping her finish packing and carry her baggage back up to the lobby, Mark met a homeless couple in the parking lot. When we saw him at the front desk, he was paying for two nights so that Stephen and his wife could rest, shower and regroup.

I thought for just a moment about how we have two mortgages and lots of repairs to do. But my husband was sweating. The smile on Stephen's face showed that he saw Jesus in Mark. So, we may put off a few repairs for another month or two. We are blessed to have jobs and a God who puts the weights right before us. We don't even have to join a gym.