Fireproof; The Movie

In the day when marriages seem to be on trial, when ‘co-habitation’ seems to be the choice of heterosexuals’ lifestyle, the movie Fireproof sends a positive, Godly message to the masses.  From the makers of Facing the Giants, the ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, GA, expands their movie ministry yet again.  If you have learned anything about the ministry concept at Sherwood, you would understand that profits from Facing the Giants was simply channeled to the making of the new movie. 

Facing the Giants (still one of my favorites), used a cast of volunteers.  Many critics discarded the acting abilities and were skeptical of the movie because of it.  My impression of Fireproof was the acting certainly improved.  Although a few of the characters make repeat performances, the addition of Kirk Cameron in the lead role obviously makes a difference. 

The Christian who watches the movie will obviously be watching for far deeper motivation than the abilities of the actors.  The message of the movie is such that the gospel is presented plainly; yet not in a shove-it-down-your-throat mentality.  It is a movie that a Christian couple should not be afraid to host another couple who are either lost, or maybe experiencing a painful stretch in their marriage.  Pray that God would reveal Himself to them.  For the Christian couple whose marriage seems strong, the message could be one of encouragement to maintain a Godly emphasis in their relationship.

The movie is definitely worth watching.  It is a little long (2 hours) but the plot keeps you in it . . . and at least you get a bit more of your money’s worth.  Go ahead, husbands, take your wife on a date.  It’s a great night out.

Chosen For God’s Blessings

Did you ever dream of being famous?  Perhaps as a child, you thought how great it would be to be the President of the United States.  Or could it have been the famous athlete hearing the cheers from adoring fans in the stands after making a sensational play?  For some of us, though, in reality we were just hoping not to be the last one picked to play in the game.  We may have had lofty dreams, but seemingly little ability to make the dreams come true.

Long before I was ever born, God knew me.  In fact, long before my PARENTS were ever born, God knew me.  He knew me all the way in eternity past.  And He still chose to love me and shower me with His blessings.  I certainly do not deserve His blessings and there’s absolutely no way I could ever live up to deserving His attention or even a second thought, much less the abundant blessings He gives. 

The Apostle Paul writes to the church in Ephesus (1:4,5), that God has chosen bless us through adopting us into His family.  By our very nature, we chose to separate ourselves from God.  Yet, He willingly and lovingly draws us back to Himself, encouraging us through His Holy Spirit the entire way. 

I may not be famous, and certainly no one has asked for my autograph lately.  Well, except for the debit card receipts.  But God has chosen us to be His followers and what an honor to be on His team!  By the way, after reading the back of the Book . . . this team wins!

Rejoicing for God’s Blessings

In reading the first three verses of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, I’m reminded of God’s goodness even in the face of trials.  When Paul penned this letter to the church at Ephesus, he was in prison.  Even still, he found a way to enjoy God’s blessings.  What was it about Paul that brought about the joy and peace that is able to find blessings even while locked up?

He understood the Source of these blessings.  He recognized that God was the ultimate Provider of every good and perfect gift.  He was able to differentiate between the physical blessings and the more important spiritual blessings.  While God is the giver of both kinds of blessings, Paul was able to distinguish between the two. 

I’ve never been an inmate in a jail or prison.  I hope to never discover what that’s like.  There are other problems and situations I find myself in, though.  And the lesson I need to learn from God’s Word this week is to remember that God’s blessings are not all in the physical realm.  If I’m faithful to Him and His cause, I should be able to find blessings even in the difficult circumstances of life.

An Outdoor Art Show

I attended an incredible outdoor art show this evening.  Our family drove over to the beach, stood on the boardwalk and watched the moon rise in the Eastern sky.  We try to do that whenever there is a full moon.  So with the ocean breeze blowing in my face, and listening to the tide roll in, we watched as the moon appeared over the horizon.

Braves Season Review

I had the opportunity to attend a Braves baseball game today.  It was an early birthday gift from a couple of pretty special people.  Thanks, Randy and Diana! 

While at the game, I saw some pretty neat things.