Peanut Sizzler

New Blog

2008-01-18T22:35:00.000-08:00

Go check out my new blog: http://mikelstauffer.wordpress.com/

Yes, I took the picture above. This picture was taken in or around June 2005 in Big Bear, CA.

Obama approves abortion and is OK with killing innocent human life

2008-01-16T18:14:00.000-08:00

Obama on abortion. He must be proud of his 100% rating from Planned Parenthood. And he claims to be a Christian? Bull.

Making a Difference in This World

2007-12-24T15:10:00.000-08:00

Do you want to make a difference in this world? Then live holy! People are watching the way you and I live and act more than they listen to what we say (which means most of you reading this won't listen, myself included, and we'll just go on living our lives the way we're used to living them). Of course, there comes a time when we need to open our mouths and give a reason for the hope we have, but by and large, actions speek louder than words. Just something to think about.

...we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. - Ephesians 1:4

Learn from Samson

2007-08-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Remember Samson? We read about him in the Book of Judges primarily. He had an affinity for women. Or, to put it in spiritual terms, he lusted after the flesh. Samson was a Nazarine. Nazerites took a vow to 1) never touch a dead thing 2) stay away from foriegn vineyards and 3) don't get a haircut. Samson, by the worlds terms had it all. He was handsome, strong and he was charismatic (at least in the sense that he was a chick magnet). Although Samson had it together outwardly, inwardly there was a cancer growing that held him back from living the life God had for him. Samson's lust of the flesh would get the best of him finally. As you read, note that Samson failed to do all three things he took a vow to do as a Nazarite. Sin has a way of getting you "off track."

The Philistine's wanted Samson gone and Delilah was the tool used to take Samson down. As you read in Judges 16, Samson and Delilah go back and forth, she trying to find his one weakness to take him out and he just teasing her and flirting with her. Well, the more Samson flirts with her and entertains the path of the flesh, he gives in to Delilah (and to the lust of the flesh) and the rest is history.

Notice as he tells her the one thing that could take his strength away, the Spirit of the Lord leaves him and he doesn't even know it. That's how it is with you and me. When we entertain the lusts of the flesh or the pride of life, when we give in to our sinful ways, the Lord lets us go and we reap what we've sown.

Know this about sin, and we see this from Samson's life. Sin will FIND you, sin will BIND you, sin will BLIND you, sin will GRIND you and sin will CRUSH you. Samson loved women, Delilah found him. He lost his strength and was bound and enslaved by the Philistines who also gouged out his eyes. And eventually, after toiling away as a grinder, Samson was crushed when the Lord gave him his strength back one last time and he killed the Philistines in an impressive display of strength.

How can we avoid ending up like Samson? Take out those inroads of sin into your life. Is it the TV? The internet? The bar? The donut shop? Bomb and destroy the roads that sin travels down to reach your soul. Smash the TV, disconnect the internet, find new friends, whatever it may be. Then allow God to construct new roads to your heart. Let the freeway of God's love and grace that travel from His Word, from prayer, from fellowship, from serving Him and glorifying Him encourage and equip you to live a life God intends for you to live.

Nothing better than...

2007-07-21T21:45:00.000-07:00

Taking in a Dodger game with your boys (and wife). What do you and your family do for fun?

The Kiss from Hell

2007-06-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

But Jesus said to him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" Luke 22:48

Ever wonder why Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss? Why didn't he just point him out to the garrison that came to seize Him? Why a kiss? It's because Judas was a hypocrit extraordinaire. He wanted to appear all good, holy, spiritual on the outside but yet on the inside he was rotton to the core. Here he is giving the Lord a kiss as if to say...oh I love you sooooo much Lord! All the while in his conscience he's saying...if you only knew I sold you out for a pile of money! As bad as this seems, Judas is not unusual. He's a man just like I'm a man. He succumbed to the sin of greed. Filthy lucre. We do the same thing. I do the same thing. Heck, sometimes some of the best fights or fits of outrage come during the ride to church! Once there, it's 'hello brothers! Praise the Lord!' The key is, when we recognize this scenario in our own lives, it's time to stop, get on our knees and repent. It's time to get right.

Further, when we volitionally divulge in sin, we are partnering with Satan to accomplish his purposes. What are his purposes? To tear us down and to destroy us. To rip apart our families. Don't partner with Satan. Line yourself up with God and His will for you and life will go much better for you. Godspeed.

Dusty Baker visits the old ballyard

2007-04-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

Opening Day 2007 at Patterson Park. The city of Riverside fixed up and remodled Patterson Park where Dusty Baker grew up playing baseball, so it was fitting that Dusty come full circle and "re-dedicate" the old ballpark he grew up playing in. Here's our slugger with Dusty and his son. Please Lord, let some of that "baseball magic" rub off on Zach...afterall, Zach is our best retirement plan option right now!

Pray for Zachary!

2007-03-13T22:54:00.000-07:00

Handsome like his dad no? Zach is in the hospital with pneumonia and a mean old nasty respiratory virus that finally took him down after fighting it for two weeks.

While you're at it, pray for Matt too. He's sick too and can't be near his brother till Zach's WBC gets better. That means Mom and Dad will be away from each other too for most of the time till all of thise blows over...so pray for all of us while you're at it!

Thanks, and I'll update later.

Did we find the tomb of Jesus?

2007-03-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

Would it really make a difference in your life if we did?

Great article presenting both sides here. Our motto at Peanut Sizzler is: Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15).

Prison Ministry Update

2007-03-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Currently there are about 100 regular inmates and about 20+ visitors coming to our weekly Bible study at the Norco mens prison. It's awesome to see what God is doing in the hearts and lives of these inmates and ours as well.

Talk about people who are hungry for the Word of God! If only I were as hungry as they are! If you're a praying person, remember to pray for these guys when you can. A lot of these guys are on fire for the Lord but the enemy is on them and after them like nobody's business. Besides, maybe one of these guys might be a future neighbor of yours someday. Pray for the Two Or More concert coming up on March 24th. Thanks and Godspeed to you!

Special Event inked for March 17th

2007-01-12T21:56:00.000-08:00

The CCC Mens Prison Ministry is excited to announce we've put together a special event for March 17, 2007 at CRC Norco for the male inmates. SoCal band 'Two or More' will put on a concert for the guys and share their faith and testimonies. Keep this event in your prayers.

You can check out 'Two or More' here. (Two or More rocks)!!!

Prison Ministry Update

2007-01-12T21:41:00.000-08:00

Heres the rundown: Six months ago we started this ministry. We started a Bible study on the first and third Thursday nights for the men at CRC Norco. The first meeting there were 15 inmates. Two months later, we were invited to come every week. A few more weeks went by and there are 75 guys showing up. Now, there are consistently 80-100 inmates coming to our weekly Bible study! Right before Christmas, 30 guys accepted Christ as their Saviour! Every week souls are being won for Christ. And every week we see hearts softening and walls coming down as guys humble themselves before God and their brothers, sharing their deepest needs, sins and issues.

I recently told these guys that just prior to this ministry getting off the ground, I was in a desert, more or less backsliding and rebelling against God. Well, He had other plans. I told these guys that I give them a lot of props for getting me back on track and for re-igniting a passion for Christ that has been missing in my life for some time. Although these guys are "inside", their lives are not in vain. The Lord is using them to fuel my desire to grow closer to the Lord. It's a blessing and a privilege to fellowship with these guys each week. I live for Thursday nights.

If you think of it, keep these guys in your prayers. The enemy is a roaring lion and wants to destroy their lives. All of us are redeemable. Most of these guys are some of the most honest, pure, transparent and on fire believers I've ever known. These guys forget more about the Bible than I'll ever know in my life. I love these guys...if you could meet them, you would to.

"Love the Lord and love your neighbor..." in so doing, you glorify God!

Whoa, where have I been???

2007-01-12T21:38:00.000-08:00

Man, where does the time go? Are you kidding me? It's really 2007? Geesh, HAPPY NEW YEAR ALREADY!!!

Hope you have a blessed 2007!

My Life Support System

2006-12-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

My secret is out. This is how I manage to work 40 plus hours a week, be a father to three kids (two hyper active always in turbo speed boys), maintain some semblance of a marriage, work in some ministry time, run here and there for kids sporting events and stuff, manage a home, and...and...and...., well, you know, you do it to. But try this, it works pretty good!

Are you a coffee afficianado? Is your office coffee lacking some zing? Your office swill not cutting it? Check out this website I recently found.

Prison Ministry Update

2006-12-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday was a huge blessing to our ministry team. Just a few months ago, when we launched this ministry, 15 inmates were showing up at the Bible study we were leading. Two nights ago, 90 men showed up to worship God and study the Bible! I often wonder how much we are helping these guys, I'm not sure if we are. But this I know, they sure bless our socks off each week! I look forward to seeing these guys every week and fellowshipping with them. They are great examples for me in my Christian walk. They are stripped of everything. All they have is Jesus and each other. Their lives are so gloriously simple and dedicated to the Lord...all while being incarcerated in prison.

Please pray for these guys. They will be our neighbors one day. They are scared and want/need mentors and people to disciple them. They want so much to succeed on the outside. I am sure they can if they take their dedication to the Lord with them when they leave. I have a lot to be thankful for...I'm free! Yet I long for the intimacy and complete abandon of self for the Lord that my inmate brothers have. These guys bless me more than I can ever bless them.

Vacation!

2006-11-29T22:08:00.000-08:00

Just returned from a nice trip to Colorado and Nebraska to visit with friends and family. Not sure what happened here but the pictures popped up in reverse order. Anyway, it was a nice trip, had a great time, reconnected with family and enjoyed the stress free life for a few weeks.

2006-11-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

Here's the crew. This band of hooligans made sure we didn't sleep past 7 a.m. But this was what our trip was all about...family.

2006-11-29T21:57:00.000-08:00

No vacation is complete without jumping in and playing in a big pile of leaves. Here I am eating some of Nebraska's finest roughage courtesy of my lovely wife.

2006-11-29T21:55:00.000-08:00

Dont' look now Zach, but there is a train behind you. This is at the train museum in Denver. Grandpa used to work for Union Pacific Railroad. He and the boys nearly lost their alleged minds here. It was fun I must say!

2006-11-29T21:52:00.000-08:00

Uhhhhhhh, I don't remember this being the way to Nebraska!

2006-11-29T21:31:00.000-08:00

Here we are somewhere in the Rocky Mountains at a picnic area. Looks like a Christmas card to me! Grandma and Grandpa showed us a good time and fattened us up with some good food, then it was off to Nebraska!

Purpose Driven driving Christianity in the ditch?

2006-11-11T09:28:00.000-08:00

From Roger Oakland, Understanding the Times, a discernment ministry: http://www.understandthetimes.org/commentary/c48.shtml#_ftn12

Calvary Chapel's position with Purpose Driven, Emergent and contemplative:
http://www3.calvarychapel.com/ccof2/parsontoparson.pdf

This is not something to summarily dismiss for any reason no matter what your religious stripe is or your theological bent might me. Study to show thyself approved unto God...then decide for yourselves.

Democrats taking over???

2006-11-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

Looks like the Dems are taking over at least in the House of Representatives. I haven't seen too much election news yet, but what I've seen it looks like the Republicans are taking a beating. At this point in time, I honestly don't care. I'm so politically apathetic right now I couldn't give a rip who wins or loses. At the law firm I work at, I get to see some of the political games that are played. Albeit, what I witness is only the tip of the iceberg. Politics to me seems so dirty, so revolting, so.... I used to be politically minded and somewhat active. That got me no where and made me more frustrated. As a Christian, I know that political agendas are not the answer to "our problems." I gave up on politics. Oh, I will vote, but I'm not going to get to excited about any of it. And, I'm switching to Independent if I get around to it. The only thing that matters, the only thing that will make a real difference in our world is the proclamation and preaching of the Word of God and the salvation of sinners through Jesus Christ by faith. That's it. That's what I aim to do this day forward, one soul at a time. If we all purpose to do the same, one day there will only be one party (not Republican or Democrat). Just the Kingdom of God doing the will of God. And elections won't matter, politics won't be a dirty side show. As constituants of the Kingdom of God, we have a civic duty to share Jesus with all who will listen. Go and tell someone about Him. Godspeed.

The Emergent Church: A mystical ecumenical heresy?

2006-11-06T20:14:00.000-08:00

False teachers such as Tony Jones and Brian McLaren have attempted to supplant the Gospel by seducing multitudes with doctrines that can damn their sould for all eternity. Jesus warned that "many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many" (Matthew 24:11). The present day emerging church movement is full of deceitful "contemplative practices." The danger of the Emerging Church's type of spirituality is that it replaces the certainty of the written Word with subjective experiences.

Satan's trick is always to promote leaders who think that they are truly Christian, while at the same time they proffer new unbiblical techniques for the glorious work of Christ. Ecumenical strategy, re-defining God, a fictitious contrast replacing the Word of truth, redefining theology, rewriting history, the utter denial of basic biblical principles, and the rejection of the gospel are just a part of what Brian McLaren, Tony Jones, Brennan Manning and other Emergent leaders propose and peddle on the Evangelical community.

Those who would strive for the faith of the Gospel must stand firm in it, aware of present dangers, and carry on unwavering in the hour of crisis. In the words of the Apostle, "...stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel" (Phil. 1:27).

Here are three must reads about and concerning the Emergent Church and it's dangerous propositions:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Lessons for bloggers

2006-11-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

True, blogs are a place where people can share thoughts, ideas and opinions and carry on conversations about an endless number of topics. One drawback is that communicating via the blogosphere, the human element or the face to face element is not present and that can hinder our communication and understanding of each other. In face to face communication, one might show more restraint or patience with the other person whereas while communicating electronically, we or should I say I have a tendency to just spout off showing no retraint at all.

I've learned some valuable lessons through my blog conversations with others. I've debated several people on blogs who held a contrary worldview than mine, I've debated various issues/topics with those who supposedly were adherants to my worldview. In most cases, the conversation went nowhere. Typically one side raises some issues they are questioning about the other person. Next, the other person usually feels personally "attacked" and throws out a bunch of rhetorical non-sequitors and ad hominum attacks against the other person, and then, well, it goes south fast from there. The real issues never get resolved, people say stuff they probably shouldn't and a bunch of wounds are inflicted leaving a bloody mess behind.

Here's what I've learned during my blogging career: 1) Pray before you speak. This is so easy it's the hardest thing to do. It's much easier and quicker to shoot from the hip in your own strength and wisdom than it is to actually pray and ask God if you should even spend your time engaging this person. 2) The other side will almost never be persuaded to agree with you. We all have a right to our opinions and those opinions are often strongly held. People aren't often willing to entertain opposing viewpoints. So that leads me to number 3) Keep your comments and arguments short, concise and focused. When you sense the other side isn't "getting it", move on. The chances things will get out of hand ratchet up considerably at that point. And finally, number 4) Use Scripture and plenty of it. If your argument has God watching your back, who can argue against that? The Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than a two edged sword piercing even to the division of sould and spirit, and of joints and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).

Maybe these ideas will be helpful to you as you persuade the world to believe as you do. In conclusion, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one". Colossians 4:6

Godspeed,
Mike

Have you hugged a kid with autism today?

2006-10-30T21:43:00.000-08:00

I have! Here's my son, Matthew. God gave us Matthew to make me a better Dad. This little guy sure makes life exciting! Psalm 127:3 says: "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward". Challenges, yes. Rewards? WOW!!! FAQ re autism.

2006-10-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

Heres my little baseball star chillin with little bro! Winter baseball is in full swing. This guy just loves baseball! I'm good with that. You know, raising kids is probably one of the hardest things I'll ever do, but at the end of the night, when it's all said and done, and I'm tucking these little guys into bed, the joy they give me and the love they give out makes it all worth it.

Prison Ministry Update

2006-10-26T22:24:00.000-07:00

Long story short...God is really doing a work at CRC in Norco. He's doing a work in my life and with our team. It's been awesome and I'm truly blessed to be involved in this ministry. I've said before, if it were not for this ministry, I really don't know what kind of state I would be in spiritually. I was in a dry, dry, dry place for a long time when the Lord picked me out of a crowd of men who are way more qualified to lead this ministry than I am. It's been awesome.

We started out with about 15 guys showing up to our Bible study. In less than two months, we have over 60 guys showing up and it grows by 10-15 per week. Last week, 10 inmates joined the family of God! The worship has been phenominal! I mean, if we get up to 100 guys showing up, I'm pretty sure the roof is coming down! (It's decent and in order...we're just loving on God while we sing our hearts out).

Pray for these guys, pray for the team and pray that God's spirit would continue to draw more lost souls to Himself on Thursday nights at CRC Norco. Godspeed.

Prison Ministry Update

2006-09-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Things are going rather well, praise God! The team of five guys have stepped up and stretched themselves and jumped into ministry whole heartedly and we're being blessed beyond our expectations. Maybe a dozen inmates have given their lives to Christ and the ministry is growing. The Chaplain is very excited at how things have gone and has asked us to turn our twice monthly meetings into a weekly one starting in October. The Lord has opened doors for us and we'll gladly step through them to do Kingdom work at CRC in Norco.

Keep praying for our ministry team. Since we're moving to a weekly format, we need to add a few more guys to the team. Mainly, pray for the inmates. There are quite a few solid believers there who face numerous challenges to their faith daily. And the enemy sends distractors into our Bible study every time.

Thank you for your prayers and support. More updates to come. God Bless.

2006 Tunnel Walk

2006-09-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

This rocks!!! Crank up your speakers and watch this.

Prison Ministry Has Been Launched!

2006-08-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

Well we finally got our gatepass into CRC in Norco. The Lord has assembled an awesome team and we're ready to tear it up! After a few minor glitches (two of the three cell blocks were on lockdown and nobody knew we were starting chapel services this week) eventually about 15 inmates showed up. Some were believers, most were not. You could see in their eyes the hurt and pain they've packed into their hearts. After some worship and a Bible study, three guys gave their lives to Christ. We prayed with these guys and encouraged them. Two of them were homosexuals. Then we walked around and talked with the guys and prayed for them one on one. It was awesome! I'm stoked for Jesus...I've been needing to get my butt off the sidelines and get in the game for Jesus. This is it. Prison ministry is rad! Want to add some zest, meaning and purpose to your life? Get in the game for Jesus.

Baby got Book!

2006-08-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

This is hilarious! Got Bible?

Prophecy Update: The Lebonon Crisis

2006-08-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

What is going on in the Middle East? What are we to think/say/do? What's going on? What is the world coming to?

Awesome Bible teacher...knows his stuff, knows history, knows Israel. Well, just listen to this teaching. Go here.

HUSKER COUNTDOWN 2006!!!

2006-08-02T17:32:00.000-07:00

Lets get this party started! Here are two links for Husker fans that should get you ready. GO BIG RED! And here.

Is the Bible really true or not? Can we Trust the Bible?

2006-08-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

How can we know the Bible is true? Here are four ways as articulated by Greg Laurie.

What happens when you're alone with God?

2006-07-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is an awesome article for everyone who calls themselves a Christian. (This is a long post but very much worth it). Check out authors site here.

In The Presence of God

By Mike Genung

“On Monday night, this week, about midnight, I wrote a letter to the Lord. I didn’t know where to mail it so I put it in my Bible. And I asked Him, “Lord, You’ve got to do something about my heart. You know a lot of time’s gone by since I met You. And it’s starting to harden up, you know it’s just kind of natural. I want to have baby skin, Lord. I want to have skin like a baby on my heart. It’s starting to get old, and wrinkled, and calloused. It’s not because of anything I’m doing; it’s cause of a lot of things I’m not doing. And I stayed up ‘til about 2:00 in the morning writing this song…”

Keith Green, from the introduction to his song Oh Lord, You’re Beautiful.

What happens when you’re alone with God?

I often ask this question of men I’m discipling, and the answers are revealing. Some will say “Well, I read my Bible and pray every morning,” which misses the point. Others say “Nothing happens when I’m alone with God; I struggle with wondering if He’s really there or not.” Some claim that their lives are too busy for God; they intentionally keep the pace of their life at a fever–pitch in order to avoid Him.

Keep reading here.

How Did Jesus Do Personal Evangelism?

2006-06-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

The Gospel of John, chapter 4 gives us great insight into how Jesus conducted personal evangelism. You remember the woman at the well? She was the sort of person many would try to avoid this day and age. This is what is so great about Jesus. The greatest demonstrations of the power of His ministry involved the most unaproachable, vile, dispicable people...not much unlike you or I if you think about it. Here is a simple overview of the "WDJD Principle." Pray that God would give you opportunity to use it. But beware, if you pray for that, He will definitely affirmatively answer your prayer!

There's a Red Storm Coming...run for the hills USC!

2006-06-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

Oh this is sweet! Lets start Smackdown '06 right now! Order is being restored in Lincoln. There is disarray at USC, off field problems, lack of depth, lack of experience, great time for the Huskers to come into SC's house and spank the Spoiled Children. Order restored, any questions?

Another Reason to Get on Your Knees

2006-06-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

Human trafficking and the sex slave industry is a growing evil in our world. The leading world governments from all over the globe remain largly silent against such evil. The Salvation Army is leading the fight against the sex slave insustry and you can help. You can pray can't you? Sure you can, we all can. Click here for an update and a call to pray.

I'm still here...

2006-06-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

Blogging has not been my highest priority lately. I had a little surgery recently that has kicked my butt and incapacitated me for a spell. I'm up and moving around...I stopped taking the Vicodin and I'm doing well. Thanks for asking. Family is fine. Wife is off track and looking forward to some R & R. The boys...well they are boys...and I love 'em anyways. The mens prison ministry I'm leading is just about to launch! Pray for our team and for the inmates we'll be fellowshipping with soon.

Some changes to the ole blog might be forthcoming. Thanks for stopping by and have a great summer everybody!

New Link

2006-06-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

I received an email from the founder and director of Blazing Grace today that reminded me of the importance of his ministry. If you or anyone you know is struggling with a sexual addiction of some sort or an addiction to pornography, send them to this website. Pornography and sexual deviency is one of the most wretched and powerful sins of our culture today. The enemy is using porn to destroy our world one soul at a time. Thank God for His love and grace...it's the only way out!

Check out www.blazinggrace.org

DaVinci what?

2006-06-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

A lot of wrankled feathers on both sides of the DaVinci Code isle. Bottom line, DaVinci theology isn't anything new. Heretical DaVinci theology has been around since the first century. No need for anyone to fly off the handle over it. Bottom, bottom line is, some people will believe anything and do anything to avoid facing the reality and truth about Jesus Christ.

One of the best DaVinci resources is here. Check it out.

Ushering in the Gay Agenda

2006-05-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

The gay agenda has little or nothing to do with tolerance and everything to do with forcing acceptance and criminalizing opposing viewpoints. Militant gay activists are successfully transforming the debate about same sex marriage into a "civil rights" issue, which it is not. It's a choice. Being gay is a CHOICE not an inherent characteristic as some would have you to believe. Everyday I wake up I have a choice to do or not do a lot of things. I don't have a choice to wake up black or white or anything else. Science cannot, has not and never will prove that someone is born gay. Good luck trying. You'll have better luck with your current strategy (judicial activism).

More thoughts here by Star Parker.

Complainer or ready to face anything He puts in our path?

2006-05-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

From May 15 My Upmost for His Highest:

Remember that you have been saved so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in your body (see 2 Corinthians 4:10 ). Direct the total energy of your powers so that you may achieve everything your election as a child of God provides; rise every time to whatever occasion may come your way.

You did not do anything to achieve your salvation, but you must do something to exhibit it. You must "work out your own salvation" which God has worked in you already ( Philippians 2:12 ). Are your speech, your thinking, and your emotions evidence that you are working it "out"? If you are still the same miserable, grouchy person, set on having your own way, then it is a lie to say that God has saved and sanctified you.

God is the Master Designer, and He allows adversities into your life to see if you can jump over them properly—"By my God I can leap over a wall" ( Psalm 18:29 ). God will never shield you from the requirements of being His son or daughter. First Peter 4:12 says, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you . . . ." Rise to the occasion—do what the trial demands of you. It does not matter how much it hurts as long as it gives God the opportunity to manifest the life of Jesus in your body.

May God not find complaints in us anymore, but spiritual vitality—a readiness to face anything He brings our way. The only proper goal of life is that we manifest the Son of God; and when this occurs, all of our dictating of our demands to God disappears. Our Lord never dictated demands to His Father, and neither are we to make demands on God. We are here to submit to His will so that He may work through us what He wants. Once we realize this, He will make us broken bread and poured-out wine with which to feed and nourish others.

Don't you just love the way God does things? First He saves you. Then He asks more of you than you can give. Then He reveals things to you from His Word. Then the test comes. He puts those things in our lives to "prove" us or to show us what we're made of. Will we complain or be ready to face whatever challenge that comes our way? The good news is that all His tests are open book tests. We have the Word of God to stand on and hold on to in difficult times. In the heat of the battle, our test score depends upon whether we will seek God first in the troubled times or whether we'll stomp our feet in retreat from Him and go our own way. Will we let the enemy chase us away from the cross or will we humbly submit to Him and sit at the cross and seek Him and submit to His will?

The Christian life is challenging and plain difficult sometimes. But the alternative is going back to Egypt and our "old life." Which is more painful? Submit to Him today or live with the pain of tomorrow back in Egypt?

How to Study the Bible

2006-04-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm the last person you want to consult on how to study the bible. There must be a billion books available to assist a person on how to get the most out of their bible study time and I've read at least a dozen of them. Here are a couple of resources that cut to the chase and should have an immediate impact on your study time. No fluff here, short and sweet.

Inductive Bible study method here

OT study method here

The Secret Sin of Christians Today

2006-03-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

What's the number one problem the church faces today (and doesn't even really know it)? Pornography. Recent studies indicate that 1 out of every 2 people sitting in the pews at a Christian church on any given Sunday are involved to some degree with pornography. That percentage stays the same even when we talk about our pastors, elders and leaders of our churches. Imagine, your pastor giving a great sermon on Sunday and 30 minutes later he goes home to surf internet porn. It's happening. To some degree or another, it's happening in your church and it's happening in my church and for the most part, the church isn't doing anything about it. What's the biggest problem facing the existence of the church today? Is it the attacks on our religious freedoms? Is it athiests, cults, militant homosexual activists...who or what is it? Pornography. Porn will bring down the church before any of those other groups or ideologies will. We'll self destruct from within. What a great mission field... our churches!

Read an open letter to the church from Chuck Swindoll here regarding this issue. Then pray and ask God how you might get involved and "fight the good fight."

True Measure of Successful Ministry

2006-03-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

Great article here by Dr. Holland. Thanks to Pulpit Magazine.

Are Christians "Picking On" Gays?

2006-03-17T09:35:00.000-08:00

I've heard this from gays myself, it goes something like this..."you Christians sure are preoccupied with homosexuals...what about wife beaters, or child molesters or rapists, shouldn't you be more worried about them?" Oh we're worried about that stuff too. But gay activists are increasingly and often militantly creating or trying to create new laws that affect the public at large, therefore, everyone's opinion matters when it affects everyone. Homosexuality was an issue 25 years ago but it wasn't front and center of the cultural debate as it is now. That's why Christians are stepping up to voice their opinions in a reciprocal fashion. Hey, this affects us too and like it or not, our opinions matter and should be heard just like anyone elses.

Better said here from Stand to Reason.

Tips for Having Civil Discussions

2006-03-14T08:19:00.000-08:00

This article addresses civility in discussing politics, primarily with someone whom you disagree with. Having briefly reviewed the article, I would say these suggestions aptly apply to religious discussions as well. Remember, "without charity, we're a clanging symbol." Read the article here.

(HT: Hugh Hewitt)

Life Is Hard Out Here For A Wimp

2006-03-11T15:21:00.000-08:00

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. ~Phil. 1:6

Be confident in this friend, that good work that God started and is doing in your life, will be completed someday soon. That's my paraphrase. God IS doing a work in each of our lives. Quite often it's not really the way I would have mapped it out but He's God, I'm not. Even when things aren't going along as I planned, I can be confident because it's God's plan and He is working things out His way in my life and that my friend is the BEST way for us. You see, I could go listen to all the best Bible teachers every day all day long and be blessed no doubt. But I can't learn the things God wants to work out in my life sitting on my duff in a seminary or at a Bible study somewhere. The best place to learn the things God wants to work out in my life is in the trenches. In daily service to Him running up against adversity, problems, enemies, trials, tribulations and frankly the day to day grind of life. Those events in life that happen to us that make for good testimonies is exactly the place where God does that "good work." So don't be afraid to jump all in. Man up. Is God leading you to go deeper with Him and asking you to step out of your comfort zone? Do "trials" and "problems" got you asking "Why God?" Be CONFIDENT God is working out that good work in you that He began when you first got saved.

I'm Back!

2006-03-09T22:58:00.000-08:00

All I needed was a mens retreat in the mountains to clear out the cobwebs, get alone with God and address some "issues of the heart." Great food, great fellowship, great Bible teaching. Better yet was the time alone with the Lord asking Him to search my heart and to "clean house." Clean house He did. I didn't like the looks of the stuff He was throwing out the door of my heart. I was starting to regret asking Him to do some house cleaning! Still, I was tempted to pick up some of the "trash" and stow it back away in the hidden chambers of my heart. It was only by His grace I was able to overcome the urge to keep some of that junk. See, I made the decision to be "set free" of my pet sins. He set me free for sure! It's all about your heart folks. Where is your heart? Where your heart is there is your treasure. I had a fools gold of a treasure in my heart. A "treasure" He quickly got rid of. I repented. I now have a treasure stowed away in my heart of heavenly proportions. My first love. It's been a while my Friend. I'm looking forward to walking with You for the unforeseen future! My Your grace is sufficient!

THE FUTURE OF PEANUT SIZZLER

I'll be doing more blogging about theology, apologetics, ministry and the church in general. I'll leave the political stuff to Hugh Hewitt and the like. In the future I would like to do some book reviews and interviews with folks like Chuck Smith, Sr., Jon Courson, Greg Koukl, etc. At some point soon, I'll start sharing what God is showing me in His word. And I'm curious about the "emergent" church fad. I'll do some research and study and report my opinions herein. I won't blog often, maybe twice a week. I'm co-teaching an apologetics class at my church home, so I'll share that stuff here too. And I'm teaching once a month at our Saturday Mens Bible Study, I'll share those messages as well.

Come fall, it's football time! And that means NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS baby! I'll slip some Husker juice up in here too!

Hey, thanks for stopping by. Hope you'll be back. THANKS A-TEAM for the link! I read you guys every day!

BLOGGING HIATUS

2006-01-23T10:22:00.000-08:00

As if anyone really reads this blog, but I'll say it here anyway. There is just too much going on in life right now to spend short and valuable time blogging. Once the merry-go-round stops or slows down, perhaps I'll be back. But for now, I'm just not feeling the necessity to write and maintain this blog. To my half dozen readers...pick up the phone and give me a call or we can discuss stuff over coffee at mi casa!

Go Steelers! (my #2 team behind the Kansas City Chiefs)
Go Jimmy Johnson (NASCAR's #48 Lowes Chevrolet) and Kyle Petty (#45)!
Go Dodgers!
Go Huskers! sign those recruits and get ready to run the table in '06!

Consider eternity, consider you're purpose in life, please the Lord in all things. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you!

Godspeed.

Better coffee cheaper for the asking at Starbucks!

2006-01-09T15:03:00.000-08:00

Want a better cup-o-joe at Starbucks for cheaper than what you normally pay? Just ask! Check it out here. Actually, I simply prefer the Venti "drip" at $1.80 anyway, but the "short cappacino" sounds better if I drank those...who wants to drink a glass full of warm milk/cream? Just give me the nectar baby! (couple shots of espresso, tiny bit of cream/foam).

The end of the procrastination trail

2006-01-09T09:18:00.000-08:00

Time to pick up the old outlines and study materials so I can finally put that baby bar behind me. As most of you know, due to unforeseen circumstances, I cancelled and then put off the last two baby bar exams (June and October 2005). I'll sign up for and take the June 2006 FYLSX. The results of which won't be known until on or about August 11th. I've taken some of the second year courses already so I'm not that far behind even after my hiatus from school to recollect some sanity. I'm not looking forward to the endless nights and guzzeling Starbucks coffee until a hole has been burned into the lining of my stomach. But this to shall pass. The hard part is the darn general bar exam sometime in or around 2009. Taking the last semester off has refreshed me and helped me to focus on priorities. My new mantra is "Focus and Finish". Focus on the baby bar and what it takes to "finish" the job (passing). Then we'll work on finishing my J.D. and worry about the general bar exam. With God, all things are possible!

The Best Bible Commentary

2006-01-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

Four pastors were discussing the merits of the various translations of the Bible. One liked a particular version best because of its simple, beautiful English. Another preferred a more scholarly edition because it was closer to the original Hebrew and Greek. Still another liked a contemporary version because of its up-to-date vocabulary.
The fourth minister was silent for a moment, then said, "I like my mother's translation best." Surprised, the other three men said they didn't know his mother had translated the Bible. "Yes," he replied. "She translated it into life, and it was the most convincing translation I ever saw."

Instead of discussing translation preferences, this pastor reminded them that the most important focus should be learning God's Word and doing it. That was the top priority of Ezra's life. As a scribe, he studied the Law, obeyed it, and taught it to the Israelites (Ezra 7:10). For example, God commanded His people not to intermarry with neighboring nations who served pagan gods (9:1-2). Ezra confessed the nation's sin to God (9:10-12) and corrected the people, who then repented (10:10-12).
Let's follow Ezra's example by seeking the Word of God and translating it into life.

The best commentary on the Bible is a person who puts it into practice.

This devotional from the Daily Bread, 1/6/06, struck a chord with me. About 50% of the time, I'm bent towards a more intellectual approach to Christianity and the Bible. The other 50% of the time I'm bent towards a more simpler, practicle approach. Both have their place and both are good. But the lesson re-iterated today is, the best bible commentary is a person who puts it into practice. Without putting the bible into practice, neither approach is any good at all.

False alarm

2006-01-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

Nothing cooking in the oven. Momma is upset. I have no comment at this time :!

What's that cooking in the oven?

2006-01-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

My better half pregnant? No way! Maybe. We were'nt trying..."it just happened"! We'll know in a few days. More later.

Politics schmolitics...

2006-01-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

Politicians and the political community are so disappointing. Can you say corruption? It doesn't matter what party you're talking about. Chances are, somewhere along the line, someone you believe in and support will let you down. The Abramoff scandal is just another in a long line of corruption cases. It won't be the last. In the end, politics is about power and money. If you don't have either one of those, you're not going to get in the game...you're just a squirrel trying to get a nut! I'll stand up in the public square for what I believe is right and for the common good, but I'll invest my time and money in things that generate a better return on investment...ie the hearts and souls of my children and my wife; sharing the gospel; living a life that pleases God, etc.

Told you so!

2006-01-04T23:14:00.000-08:00

Texas won 41-38. Great game. Lived up to the hype. Vince Young was The Man! I see a huge problem though. Both USC and Texas are on Nebraska's schedule next year. Ouch!

Pictures of mi familia and stuff...

2006-01-04T22:06:00.000-08:00

Sis with Big Bro
Here's Little Guy with his kitty cat
My better half and future Heisman Trophy winner

Scurilous Prediction

2006-01-04T16:39:00.000-08:00

I'm not a USC fan. Neither am I a fan of Texas...in fact, I despise Texas! They're our Big 12 nemesis. But, due to the fact that Texas is from the Big 12 and I don't want USC to be the first to win three national championships in a row, I'll be ever so quietly pulling for Texas. I think they are a pretty solid team all the way around. USC definitely hasn't played anyone of their caliber all year. Hence...

Texas 34
USC 28

By the way, only four teams have won back to back championships twice: Alabama, Oklahoma, USC and NEBRASKA. Looking forward to September 16, 2006 wherein the Huskers blow into town to pummel the Trojans!

The Annual New Years Resolution Game Begins

2005-12-29T15:49:00.000-08:00

We've all done it. I've done it more than I would like to admit. But we've all to some degree or another made those "new years resolutions" that we aborted sometime in February (maybe earlier, maybe later). Thinking back, I think my most common "resolution" has been to get back into the gym, exercise and lose some weight. All of which has been an up and down, off and on endeavor throughout the years. I'm not sure about the value of making new years resolutions. Most of them go by the wayside and for the others, circumstances change, life ebbs and flows and makes them irrelevant. So I guess a person just needs to live for each day. Live as if today was your last day. Makes sense. Easier some days than others for sure. With that said, it just seems like I'm supposed to make some resolutions. So, I've thought about it for the past few weeks and here they are.

One, I would like to improve on and make my relationship with God better and closer. That comes by practicing spiritual disciplines such as bible reading, daily prayer, solitude, fasting, fellowship, etc. I think a lot of things/issues in life become much clearer and easier to deal with when your relationship with God is somewhat dialed in.

Secondly, I want to drastically improve on or kick up a notch or two my role as the spiritual leader in my family. Praying together as a family has enormous benefits (sadly to say, I'm a big failure here). Putting myself on the back burner, spending more time with the kids training them up in the ways of the Lord and nurturing them to maturity is very important and I feel will be the biggest benchmark to my legacy.

Thirdly, to stay the course and keep plugging away at law school. It's almost routine now, but everyday I want to quit. Work, family and school, it's a pretty daunting task, but one that God will enable me to finish and do well at.

Fourthly, exercise and lose some poundage! Heard that one before? This one is tough for me. I spent a good 20-25 years of my life in a gym hurling weights around, playing college football at Nebraska and later as an amatuer bodybuilder. I'm pretty much done with the gym thing. So I need to find something to keep me active and to help me stay in shape. Something a little more strenuous than mowing the lawn once a week is OK by me.

So there it is. The key to making and keeping resolutions I've come to learn is, turning these things over to God (He might delete one or two of them and add others) and live in the power of the Holy Spirit. Each day is new (duh) and each day brings it's own issues, problems, ups and downs. Being in tune with God in such a way that whatever happens moment by moment each day, you can face each day and every situation with confidence and boldness.

As for this blog, who knows what will happen. The only thing it does for now is suck up my time from profitable endeavors like work and studying. Nobody really reads it, except you Mom...thanks! (and a few others...thanks to you too!). I've come so close to totally deleting it a few times. Maybe I'll change things and go more personal, maybe more about football, law school, my kids or my spiritual life and what I'm learning. We'll see.

At any rate, Happy New Year to you and may 2006 be the best year ever for you!

Why?

2005-12-28T22:16:00.000-08:00

Can anybody tell me why I would continue a dialogue with someone who doesn't want to hear what you have to say, puts words in your mouth, tells me what I think, who thinks they know what my position is, catagorizes me and employs straw man and red herring arguments to keep the conversation going in circles? In my line of work, I've worked on the opposite side of lawyers who do some or all of the above. Most of them are crotchety old nags working in solo practices who find themselves knee deep in needless law and motion proceedings and on the business end of a judges order for sanctions for one reason or another. In the end, you have to feel sorry for them. A little humility, grace and intellectual honesty would do them well. But who am I to say and what do I know...I'm just a squirrel trying to get a nut.

Order Restored...Any Questions?

2005-12-28T22:06:00.000-08:00

Nebraska 32
Michigan 28

Awesome game for the Huskers! By far the best bowl game so far this year. Turns out Mark May (ESPN Gameday analyst) was 12 or more points short in his prediction. He and really nobody else gave NU a chance to win this game let alone make a good game of it. May said Michigan would blow out NU and score in the 40's. 14 of Michigan's points came off of turnovers and NU had one touchdown called back. Our running game was juiced up as RB Cory Ross ran for 166 yards, an Alamo Bowl record. Junior QB Zach Taylor, who's body is probably packed in ice right now (he got drilled a good 15 times and spent a good chunk of time on his keister), won the player of the game with three TD passes. Great win against a great Michigan team. The extra practice time and closing the season with three wins just about puts us back where NU football belongs...playing BCS caliber teams on New Years Day. Next up, USC on September 16, 2006 in Los Angeles. Whoaaaaaa Nellie!

Pictures, articles, stats and more here.

Loving God with All Your Mind

2005-12-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

Got vacation? Here's some holiday reading for you.

The Faith of Unbelief. Read here.

Dealing with life and theistic evidences for God. Read here.

Postmodernism and the pursuit of truth. Read here.

Are you a morally good person? Does it matter? Read here.

Not follow Christ? Who else did you have in mind? Read here.

How does a disciple live? Read here.

Rethinking our approach to evangelism. Read here.

The Making of a Christian. Read here.

Do proponents of gay marriage have a metaphysical ground for their position? Read here. (Article entitled "Legal Neutrality and Same-Sex Marriage")

Why I'm not a Moral Relativist: In "Why I'm a Christian" Geisler and Hoffman. Read here.

This ought to be enough for you for awhile. Hope these articles are helpful as you "...love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength and all your MIND..."
Merry Christmas and Godspeed.

Three More Days and other random thoughts...

2005-12-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

Got your Christmas shopping done? Me either. I did most of it online this year. Man, that's the way to go let me tell you. Well, three more days till the traditional ripping open of the presents. Paper and bows will fly! I can't wait for my little guys to open a special present I got them (complete Nebraska Cornhusker football uniforms--helmet, shoulder pads and all)! They are going to lose their minds! We'll be missing my girl this year...she's staying with her mom this year and will be seeing other family members she hasn't seen in a long time. It won't be the same without her. But she'll be in our hearts and our thoughts. By the way, if you haven't recieved your Christmas card from us yet, either I don't know you and you're not getting one or it's on the way! Have a great Christmas wherever you are! Miss you all (you know who you are). May the peace of His presence be with you this Christmas and throughout the year!

Are same sex marriages good for children?

2005-12-21T09:02:00.000-08:00

In one word, NO. There is absolutely NO scientific research available indicating that same sex marriages are good for children. Information here.

Does a traditional marriage (one man and one woman) matter for children? Research says it does. Information here.

Who are you to force your morality on me?

2005-12-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

This statement generally comes up when one is giving their opinion in one fashion or another about morality. They are saying what they think is right or wrong and how that ought to play out in society. This self refuting statement comes up often when a Christian is expressing their viewpoint that goes against the grain (as it often does in our morally bankrupt society).

This challenge is self refuting. It defeats itself because it is a challenge to you that you ought not force others or ask others to live according to your moral point of view. Yet that challenge itself is a moral point of view that someone else believes in and is asking you to live by. To put it simply, they're forcing their morality on you when they say that you shouldn't force your morality on someone else.

Everybody has a moral point of view that we are seeking to have believed and acted upon in society and we are seeking to do that by some measure. Take the homosexual marriage agenda. They are advocating that their moral point of view (gay marriage) is legitimate and should be accepted. Is that a moral viewpoint that should be "forced" on everyone? How legitimate is it to force that moral viewpoint? I won't enumerate here why that viewpoint is not a legimate viewpoint to be forced on society at large, but I do take exception to how that viewpoint is being implimented on our society, which in essence, is the "rub" that opponents of gay marriage have against gay marriage inter alia.

There are two ways to force your morality. One way is to compel or encourage people to act in a way you think is right and for the common good. Generally we use the force of social approval and disapproval to effectuate this method. Another way, the way of the gay marriage activist is to strong arm society with forceful measures- namely by force of law and/or the courts. This brings up a whole new topic of judicial activism, which can be discussed at another time, but a tactic that gay marriage activists are capitalizing on currently.

But one way another, EVERYONE is forcing a moral view on someone. If you are a moralistic person, shame on you.

To friends and family...

2005-12-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

Took little guy for his EEG bright and early this morning. Went over the MRI and all the other tests he's undergone over the past two weeks. Good news is everything came back normal, except the EEG. Little Guy has some extra random synapses firing off in his noggin which is causing his seizures. There are remedies for that and he'll be monitored for quite awhile. As for the autism concerns, that won't be determined but by observation and evaluation over time. Overall, pretty good news. Mommy was pretty worried for awhile, but we're happy to report nothing too serious at this time. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Whatever happens we know is in the hands of the Lord and He causes ALL things to work together for good...! We're happy that God saw us fit to be his mom and dad and we're blessed for this opportunity.
Thanks again...see you all soon!

Early Christmas present...

2005-12-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

Some folks just think they have everything all figured out. They think they know you when they don't know you at all. They call you names, catagorize you and rip you to shreds with specious ad homenum attacks. The irony is, they have their panties in a wad and are stomping up and down beside themselves when they read or hear something they disagree with. Somewhere in their vitriole they condemn you for "moralizing" or expressing your viewpoint arguing "who are you to shove your beliefs down my throat"? Newsflash...aren't you shoving your belief down my throat that I don't have the right to express my belief/viewpoint? Everybody "moralizes". You don't have to act like a jackass when you express one though.

Learn how to be more consistent in your moral reasoning.

The three elements of tolerance.

Huskers continue bowl preparation

2005-12-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

A big day in the "rebuilding" process of one of colleges most storied and successful football programs looms on the horizon for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. By smashing Colorado the day after Thanksgiving, the Huskers earned a trip to the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Not quite Husker Nation standards, but it's progress. Much has been said this year, an up and down year at that, about the "State of the Huskers". Can Bill Callahan coach? Will the west coast offense work at NU? What happened against Kansas and Missouri? We all hope that the Colorado game is a peek at what will become the "norm" for Husker performances. And we can only hope that the game against Michigan in 10 days will go down in similar fashion. Check out the scoop on "Nebraska Football" link on the right or see story here. GO BIG RED!!!

Slouching towards Gomorra and Brokeback Morality

2005-12-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

Brokeback Mountain is not your John Wayne western movie that's for sure. I haven't seen it and never will. I suppose that makes me an intolerant, hatemongering, bigoted homophobe to the logically and morally challenged elite homosexual apologists in the world. I'm not, but really, who cares. Being the militant seeker and advocate of tolerence as they are, they won't mind tolerating opposing world views...oh that's right, tolerance is desired only if it lines up with your world view, otherwise you're a $^&$%&amp;amp;^%^&%&*%. You'll recall, having tolerance for something means you tolerate it even if you don't agree. Let the ad hominem attacks begin.

Related articles here, here, and here.

How do we know if the Bible is really from God?

2005-12-16T12:14:00.000-08:00

Couldn't have said it better, so go here.

Nine more days to Christmas Daddy!

2005-12-16T08:35:00.000-08:00

With a sparkle in his eye and joy splashed all over his face, those are the first words uttered off the lips of my five year old son today. Tomorrow will be "eight more days daddy!" Christmas is fun for kids and we do our best to make it special for our kids every year. It's a special time of year steeped deep in history and tradition. Of course the central figure of Christmas is Christ himself. No matter how you feel about Christ, Christmas is about Christ first and foremost. In our home, we have family traditions that honor the birth and birthday of Christ that help make Christmas special and meaningful. Do you have some family tradition that you and your family do at Christmas to honor Christ? Feel free to share them here. May the peace of His presence be with you this Christmas and always.

Do you have a fabricated opinion about the veracity of Christianity?

2005-12-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

In a recent colloquy with another highly esteemed blogger in the hugely opinionated (thank God for that) blogosphere, something came to my mind, mainly, that people can hold whatever belief system they want to cling to, that's their perogative (spelling error I'm sure). However, you better have good reasons for what you believe in. You and I can make whatever claims we want to make, but just making a claim or a belief statement doesn't make it true. Further, basing my life and actions on what other people do just because they claim to hold the same ideological beliefs I do isn't necessarily a highly advisable thing to do. Lots of people say one thing and do another. That's why I say "show me what you believe, then maybe I'll listen to you". Ironic thing for many is, that's exactly what Jesus teaches. "Follow me", not follow that Christian dude over there who's entagled in pornography or any number of other traps and sins.

Therefore, I encourage you to know what you believe, know why you believe it, then actually LIVE your belief system. Don't follow another without knowing them or knowing anything about what they "believe". Neither should you make broad sweeping generalizations about a belief system based on the actions of those obviously not practicing what they allegedly believe. You can't make an intellectually honest assessment of a belief system without reading/studying/investigating that systems truth claims for yourself. And of course, what you believe better be true and worth believing. It would be a damn shame to believe the wrong thing! This "advice" might just serve you well someday.

Nice related article here about "religious pluralism" and truth claims inter alia other things.

Anybody want to run for Governor of California on the GOP side?

2005-12-01T08:49:00.000-08:00

I guess Arnold has decided he's done with politics. He just named an openly lesbian Democrat, Susan Kennedy, who is married to her "partner", as his Chief of Staff. Get more here.

The Terminator isn't aware of the agenda of the militant gay activists. If you're not, read this. This article is an eye opener written by attorney Scott Lively. A must read.

Oh, this sends chills down my spine!!!

2005-11-30T10:51:00.000-08:00

Listen to this...it's the sound of rabid Cornhusker fans at Boulder, Colorado, after we dismantled the Buffaloes and RESTORED THE ORDER!!!!

Did President Clinton lie???

2005-11-21T13:42:00.000-08:00

Well, we all know he lied, probably about many things. Mrs. Clinton can vouch for that. But the radical extremist left is hoping that you forgot that President Clinton and the whole band of modern day cut and runner's voted to use force against Saddam Huessien because he had a cache of squirt guns....no, bottle rockets. No, WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!!! That's right, WMD's. More info here, including the video of President Clinton's speech.

Separation of Church and State is one big illusion

2005-11-17T16:10:00.000-08:00

Great article here.

ALSO...Presence of evil proves God does exist!

Read article here. Thanks Stand To Reason.

Don't look now, but the Secular Taliban is on your tail!!!

2005-11-11T13:01:00.000-08:00

The Secular Taliban is trying to redefine the concept of tolerance. Traditionally tolerance has meant that I'll put up with you even though I disagree with you. However the Secular Taliban is now trying to force you to believe that you must hold their values every bit as valid as your own even though they may contradict each other.

There’s a story told by a well-educated woman regarding the two young women missionaries caught in Afghanistan with the Jesus film. She believed that fact that these women were trying to reach out and share their faith with the people of that country was inappropriate. She said, "What right do they have in the first place to be over there trying to influence someone to a different point of view?" After we spoke, this same woman drove out of the parking lot with bumper stickers on her car proclaiming "Ban guns." "Stop logging." It was OK for her to convey her point of view, but she could not tolerate anyone promoting a belief system with which she disagreed. This intolerance of differing opinion is what the Secular Taliban is all about.

Another view the Secular Taliban hold is that truth is relative. There are no absolutes. If that's true, we can't say Hitler was wrong, can we? But soon after disabusing you of the notion that your truths are not absolute, the Secular Taliban will introduce their new set of truths which to them are very absolute.

A professor did a great job of destroying this idea of relative truth. He wanted to demonstrate to his students that there are absolutes. He told his class, "regardless of what you think, I want you to know absolute truths can be demonstrated and if you don't accept that they can, I'm going to flunk you." An angry student got up and said, "But that's not fair!" The professor replied, "See there, you've just proven my point. You have appealed to a higher standard of fairness of my own, or hopefully for you, an absolute, right?"

However, conditioned as we are to embrace tolerance, intolerance can be a positive thing. Let's think for a minute about the positive influence of intolerance. Consider the intolerance of the Christian missionaries who went into China and forbade the cruel practice of binding women's feet. Think of the Christian missionaries who went into India and in 1839 outlawed the practice of Sati, the burning of the widow on the husband's funeral pyre. Remember the intolerance of Rosa Parks, a frail woman who got on that bus in Birmingham Alabama and said, "I will not tolerate you telling me to go to the back of the bus any more." Or the intolerance of Susan B. Anthony and Katie Elizabeth Stanton, suffragettes, who said, "we will not tolerate anyone denying women the right to vote. "

These are examples of the positive political influence of intolerance. Making positive political reform in our society. When is intolerance a positive thing? When it destroys injustice. There are many things today that we should not tolerate. As you and I are sitting here there are twelve and thirteen year old young girls, maybe boys, being forced into prostitution. We should not tolerate that. Sixty-three percent of the babies born in Baltimore are born out of wedlock. We should not tolerate that. Nor should we tolerate the corporate skullduggery that has surfaced in recent months. G. K. Chesterton said, "Tolerance is a virtue for people who have no conscience." To put his words into recent context, just think of the people who were willing to tolerate Saddam Hussein's cruelty towards his own countrymen. People who just stood by passively and tolerated it when Hussein took his political enemies and threw them headfirst into a device that grinds up plastic parts like a big trash compactor. People who were complacent when Saddam Hussein watched while Doberman pinchers ate his political opponents alive. Tolerance of injustice is a virtue for people with no conscience, for people who don't care. I hope in some small way you will be intolerant of injustice and intolerant of the Secular Taliban 's eager attempts to eliminate your freedom of religion and freedom of expression.

(Based on article by Foster Friess)

Good job Riverside County...

2005-11-11T09:13:00.000-08:00

I just looked at some election data from last Tuesday, the 8th. Regarding Prop 73, which mandated parental notification if one of their daughters was seeking an abortion, was resoundingly favored among Riverside County residents by a 59% to 41% margin. The results were virually the same for San Bernardino and Orange Counties.

Disappointing though was the turnout in Riverside County. Of 776,962 registered voters, only 287,827 bothered to vote. Thats 37%. 37%!!!! You're kidding me! We've got people in Iraq and all over the world fighting for our right to vote and exercise democracy (and spilling their blood in the process) and we can't bother to go vote?

It's just insane to me to think that for my daughter to get an aspirin at school for a headache, she needs my permission. But if she needs an abortion, a procedure that often goes awry, our daughters get all the help they need to abort the baby and keep everything a secret from their parents. How backward is that?

The debate about abortion can be honed down to one issue: "Is the fetus a human being"? If it is, then abortion is murder. If it's not, than the whole debate is meaningless. But scads of scientific data support that life begins at conception. It is our duty to keep this debate in the forefront in the public square. Progress is being made. More and more people are becoming "pro-life". It's our duty to fight for life and stop this holocaust of human life.

There are voluminous resources regarding abortion at Stand To Reason, AbortionNO.org and Abiding Truth. Go to the links on the right. And make sure you participate in the democratic process every chance you get.

ON ANOTHER NOTE, CALIFORNIA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION ENDORSES GAY MARRIAGE

Hey teachers, guess what, part of your hard earned paycheck that you give every month to your union, guess where some of that money is going? It's going to support and cram gay marriage down the throats of every Californian come hell or high water. And what's nice for the union is, they don't have to ask you or get your permission. Your money just became their money to do whatever they want with it. If that ticks you off, hopefully you voted YES on Prop 75. And you better contact your union and opt out. You still have to pay union dues, but you can have some of that go to a charity. CTA's support of gay marriage is shown here in a letter to Assemblyman Mark Leno.

WHY PEANUT SIZZLER???

Well, thanks for naming this blog goes to my beautiful wife Sandi. She commonly refers to my brain as a "peanut" (peanut brain) and I'm constantly "sizzling" on something. I can't sit still, my brain is constantly sizzling. Even if I'm lounging on the couch chilling out, my mind is always somewhere else. Thus, Peanut Sizzler! See, I just stopped typing for a few seconds and my alleged mind thought of three separate and distinct unrelated topics. Is there any help available for me or is it a lost cause?

Ok...you can look now, remodling is complete

2005-11-10T10:56:00.000-08:00

I changed the look of things. Seems a bit more user friendly. I've limited the "Links" to a few in four catagories: Religion, Politics, Culture and Miscellaneous. I intend to write/post about current political events and cultural phenomena, interjecting faith with reason. In other words, I'll be writing about important stuff from a Christian worldview. Take some time to click on the links over to the right. You'll learn what's important to me, like developing a deep relationship with God, letting my life and actions speak in favor of having a relationship with Christ. I'm interested in politics to a degree. I'm about standing up for the truth and for Godly principles regarding abortion, homosexuality and gay marriage. And, I'm a rabid Nebraska Cornhusker fan. A former Cornhusker myself, I keep close tabs on the daily happenings around NU football. I'm still a recovering Starbucks addict. I haven't claimed victory over my addiction yet, nor do I want to! Starbucks coffee rules! I'm also a part-time law student by night. My on again, off again travels through the law school experience will one day come to a conclusion, sooner than later I hope, but one day I'll have a bar card and hope to practice law at my current employer and develop a sports law department there. I also intend to use my vocation as a ministry platform to minister to hurting people who need legal help. God willing, all this will one day be real.

Come by regularly and see what I'm writing about. Tell all your friends about this blog. Use this blog as a resource. And feel free to share your thoughts/comments and suggestions. May God richly bless you!

Please Stand by...doing some remodeling!

2005-11-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by. I'm doing a bit of remodling. In the days ahead, look for posts regarding Judge Alito's confirmation process; liberal support for the invasion of Iraq who had the same pre-war intelligence as President Bush did. Also, look for posts about the depressing situation regarding the coaching inadequecies at Nebraska. We're 5-4 as of today. Last year we missed a bowl game for the first time in 38 years. We need at least one more win in the two remaining games to qualify for a bowl this year. And I plan to do some "memorandums" designed to be easily accessible "cheat sheets" pontificating the rationality for the "Case for Christianity".

Liberals Attack Strategy for judicial nominees

2005-11-01T16:12:00.000-08:00

Originally posted on July 12, 2005:
Liberal extremists have essentially used the same smear strategy to attack Supreme Court nominees since 1987. Very interesting attack strategy blueprint here.

More Alito blogging later.

Ask Arnold to keep his promise to veto AB 849

2005-09-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

As you know, AB 849 squeeked by and passed by a few votes, which, if signed by the Governator, would all but legitimize gay marriage in California. Arnold has promised to veto the measure, but the Democratic led legislature is using a rarely used ploy by holding the bill until the last minute while they whip the gay caucus into a frenzy. And as they do, they barrage Arnold with faxes, emails, phone calls and letters hoping to change his mind. The pressure is intense and we can't afford to rest on Arnold's promise to veto the bill once the sneaky Democrats finally submit the bill to him. Anything can happen in politics. Anyway, here is an excellent letter written by SaveCalifornia to the Governator which will give you great talking points as you articulate your views in the public square. Get it and read it here. And contact the Terminator and ask him to stick to his word by vetoing AB 849.

Donate Money to Salvation Army by clicking your mouse!

2005-08-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Go to this link and click the "Soften Trump" button as many times as you like. Every time you click it, All donates $1 to the Salvation Army up to $50,000. No money out of your pocket! Can you take a tax write-off for mouse click donations?

Good Morning!

2005-08-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

A WINNING PRO-LIFE STRATEGY

Dr. Kelly Hollowell introduces a strategy for winning the pro-life debate here using the acronym L.I.F.E. A simple yet uncompromising strategy.

THE KEY TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH

One of the foundational principles for spiritual growth is reading, studying and having a love for the Word of God. Duh you say...it's not rocket science, but you would be amazed at the number of professing believers who never pick up their Bible let alone have a clue as to what's in it. Read this article by Greg Laurie for further insight.

It's that time of year...

2005-08-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some football? Round Two, Air Callahan begins Thursday, August 4th in Lincoln, NE. My beloved Huskers get ready to rectify last years debacle. All early indications say that Huskers new QB, Zac Taylor is the man! He threw for 357 yards in the first half of the spring game. And apparently, he knows the playbook so well, coaches sometimes ask him about specific nuances of a certain play. We start the season off with 5 home games in a row, opening up with Maine (yea, I know...but we need a lot of help, cut us some slack this time) on September 3rd. Should be a great year. 'Skers should be back in a bowl game this year, which one? We'll have to wait and see!

What's wrong with seeker sensitive churches?

2005-07-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

The purpose of the church is to create disciples, not create an atmosphere that feels good to most anyone coming into the place. Sin is a terrible thing and it separates us from God. People need to know they are sinners and are in rebellion against God and that there are consequences to remaining in such a state. Of course, the love of God is manifest in the heart and tone of the preacher, but "feel good" sermons don't prick the heart with the truth. Greg Koukl addresses the issue further here.

The Seeker Sensitive Movement

2005-07-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

Interesting article looking at the church growth seeker-sensitive models by Clay Miller, Associate Pastor at Grace Community Church (John McArthur's church). The focus is on Bill Hybels and Rick Warren. Read the article here. More articles and information on the seeker sensitive model here and here.

What happened to good old biblical exegesis? Isn't the word of God living and powerful enough? I think we're going the wrong direction when we have the culture determining how we "do" church instead of the church defining the culture. It's not surprising though...we are afterall fallen men and women who have itching ears and a bent towards anything but complete 100% submission to God and His will for our lives.

Random Musings...

2005-07-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

HOW DO WE DEAL WITH SIN IN THE CHURCH? Interesting post by Stronger Church here.

CHURCH BULLETIN BLOOPERS here. Pretty funny!

COMMENTARY ON THE URGENCY OF PREACHING by doctor and pastor R. Albert Mohler, M.D., Southern Baptist Convention, here. My take: Topical sermons have their place, but nothing can take the place of pure exegetical expository preaching of the bible, line by line, from Genesis to Revelation. That's why I'm in favor of the Calvary Chapel method of "church"- with it's emphasis on solid line by line biblical preaching. You've probably read the surveys- there is just as much sin in the church as there is out of the church. Biblical illiteracy is at an all time high, that's because a huge number of mainstream denominations and churches in America don't feed their sheep with Gods Word. Want true success? Want to stand firm in trials? Read Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1, then do the obvious- read and meditate on His word and you shall stand firm in the face of trial and experience success.

Liberals attack strategy for judicial nominees

2005-07-12T12:54:00.000-07:00

Liberal extremists have essentially used the same smear strategy to attack Supreme Court nominees since 1987. Very interesting attack strategy blueprint here. Stay informed, do your homework, be ready to give a defense with the truth at the water cooler. It's up to us to spread the truth...the liberal MSM isn't going to help us, we have to do the work ourselves.

Choose this day Whom you will serve...

2005-06-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. - Philippians 3:19

Concerning the enemies of the Cross of Christ, the end of their lives will prove to be destruction, or, literally, 'a waste'.
Their god is their belly — they live for their fleshly appetites.
They live for their own glory — they live to make a name for themselves.
And they mind earthly things — they live for that which is temporal.

It is very likely these men were not unlike the prosperity teachers of today — the Name It/Claim It, Health/Wealth boys. 'Deny yourself? No way!' they proclaim. 'God wants everyone to be totally healthy and totally wealthy here and now.'

'What's the key to life?' he said. 'Women!' So he gathered 1,000 concubines — the most beautiful women in the region — only to discover they weren't the answer.
'Partying — that's the key,' he decided. So he imported baboons and peacocks from Africa to entertain his guests, while he kept the wine flowing freely. But after partying for years, he found it empty.
'Power — that's what will satisfy a man,' he surmised. So he expanded the boundaries of his empire farther than those of any other nation of antiquity. But even then he felt unsatisfied.
He studied philosophy and science — and garnered so much gold that silver was rendered worthless in his kingdom. And yet he declared it all empty.
At last he said, 'Power, prosperity, fame, praying, women, wine, education are not the answer. The only key to life is to fear God.' But by then, Solomon's most productive years were lost, wasted because his god was his belly; his glorying was in his own name; he minded earthly things.
Beware of those who try to get you focused on this life, worried about this life, caught up in this life. They're enemies of the Cross, for the Cross says, 'Forget about yourself. Look towards eternity. Live for heaven.' (Taken from Jon Courson's NT Commentary)

Huskers eliminated from chase for the National Championship

2005-06-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

Just over, the Huskers were eliminated in a thrilling 8-7, 11 inning loss to Arizona State. I listened to the game at my desk at work and watched bits and pieces on the company plasma screen TV. What an exciting game! I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, the home of the College World Series, and attended many a game in my youth. If you like baseball, a trip to Omaha in June is well worth it. The Huskers had a shot at winning the game. A 3 run homer in the top of the ninth by Adam Gerch put the Huskers ahead 7-5. But, they weren't able to close the deal and the Sun Devils tied the game up in the bottom of the ninth. Great year for the Huskers, finishing 57-15, ranked 3rd in the nation for most of the year. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?!!!

Homosexuality and the Bible

2005-06-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

Great article by Dr. Al Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Convention. As Christians, we need to research, find, read and distribute anything and everything we can about truth when it comes to the issue of homosexuality. Biblical Christianity is the final wall of resistence to the homosexual agenda. Get Dr. Mohler's article here. Also, check out some other resources I've linked to below.

Terri Shiavo Autopsy Released

2005-06-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

Click here for copy of the autopsy. Appears she had massive brain damage. Her brain was half the size of your average fully functioning human brain. Still doesn't give anyone the right to kill her. The autopsy doesn't diminish the value of her life. Lots of people have half of something, can we go around killing them? Read Stand To Reason's comments here. They also have great some great articles on the topic.

Huskers Headed to College World Series!!!

2005-06-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

The University of Nebraska is returning to Omaha for the college world series for the third time in five years! Today, the number two ranked pitching staff in the nation held off the Miami Hurricanes to sweep the Lincoln Super Regional two games to none and earn a trip to Omaha. Check out the story here. There is nothing like college sports!!!

ALSO, LITTLE LEAGUE CUBS FINISH SEASON
Zachary's team, the Cubs, finished their season today. Zach found a new sport he loves and had a pretty decent spring playing mostly 2nd base or center field. He still has some things to work on, oh like, chasing hit balls all over the field, tackling his teammates to get the ball and then running the ball to the pitcher as opposed to throwing it in. But he can hit and he can run fast! The best entertainment money can buy!!!

College World Series On The Line

2005-06-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some college baseball? The 54-13 Cornhuskers, ranked 4th in the nation are set to battle the Miami Hurricanes this weekend in a super regional matchup where the winner earns a trip to the College World Series held in Omaha, Nebraska. The CWS at Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha is an awesome event if you like baseball. Nothing beats the college sports environment. Huskers.com has the story here. Catch the best of three series this weekend on ESPN.

The Value of Apologetics

2005-06-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Great post over at the A-Team Blog about the value of apologetics. The study and application of apologetics is inextricably linked with evangelism and a deep longing to see souls saved from a Christless eternity. Apologetics doesn't have to be terribly "intellectual." But unsaved people do have legitimate barriers that keep them from crossing that bridge from reason to faith. Once their "intellectual" questions about Christianity are satisfactorily answered, the bridge of faith to eternal salvation through Jesus Christ is wide open. For starters, every Christian should read "Why I Believe" by Paul Little. Go and love God with all your soul, strength and MIND.

Bible Not Literally True?

2005-06-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Interesting poll going on at MSN today. 33% of 227,000 believe the Bible to be literally true in everything. 34% believe some of the details may be inaccurate or exaggerated, but the fundamentals are true. Check it out here. The point I'd like to make is, a lot of folks claim to be experts in the Bible who don't even read it. Remember, when you are talking to someone about the bible and they make a sweeping claim like the bible isn't accurate, it's fable, etc., that's THEIR claim, make THEM back it up, you don't have to try to prove them wrong. Make them prove their assertion. Most people will turn the table on you and say something like, "oh, I guess you think it's all true"! "why don't you prove it to me?" Don't take the bait. They made a claim, you make them prove it. After they fumble around for a while, you'll get your chance to "educate" them. Just be ready, in season and out of season to give a reason for the hope that lies within you.

HOW DID JESUS DIE?

Also, a story here about a possible cause of death for Jesus on the Cross (Israeli researcher thinks He died of a blood clot).