Thursday, September 24, 2009

Panning for Gold

On our Labor Day weekend in Prescott, we met a family at church who planned a gold panning expedition that afternoon. Several families were going, so we went along for the experience. Spending time with other Christian families in the canyon, we perched on boulders in the cool shade, drinking in the fresh air and clambering over river stones.

God’s creation is beautiful, and he means for us to respond with joy. He also hid beautiful and valuable treasures in the earth, and some spend a lifetime digging, mining, and panning the gold, silver, copper, and precious stones He put there.

Likewise, He created His Church to shine as a light to the world, and to spark joy in the hearts of the congregation. And he also hid treasures in His word, ready to be discovered by those who devote themselves to finding them.

That Sunday, my husband, Dave, found gold. There it was in the bottom of the pan of swirling sand – that is, the sand was swirling, but the gold wasn’t. It lay still in spite of the motion all around it. He has the piece of gold in a tiny vial in the china cabinet, a treasure not only because it is valuable, but because it reminds us that labor and exertion -- and being in the right place at the right time -- are required for those who want to find gold.

In the same way, we can find life-sustaining treasures in God’s word. Advice from today’s TV Gurus is just swirling sand compared to the clarity, value and beauty of God’s wisdom. Learn the method for discovering His truths, and join with a group of Christians who are intent on mining God’s Word. Great relationships and treasures from God are the take-home value of spending time focusing on the scriptures with others.

Quick Study: mouse over or click on the scriptures below to read.
Ps. 119:127
Prov. 20:15, Prov. 25:11
1 Cor. 3:12-15
Rev. 3:18

Monday, August 31, 2009

God's Masterpiece

Did you ever feel God chiseling away at you, crafting a masterpiece out of the raw material of you & your life?

This short film (9 min) releases some of the questions that we have when God works on us.

Enjoy!

Click here to see the film.

Friday, August 21, 2009

A friend's prayer request

I have a prayer request for a friend of mine. My friend Gary's mom has just found out that she has lung cancer and it is inoperable. She just started chemotherapy yesterday and they are saying that this will only give a little more time, not cure it. He is not handling this very well, if you could all just pray for him and his family they would greatly appreciate it. I do not know his mother's name but his name is Gary Hudson. Thank you everyone.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

A great blessing

Last week my aunt called me as I was going to get ready for work. I almost didn't answer but I did. As I said hello she asks me to pray for my cousin. She had just been in a really bad car accident. My uncle was in the ambulance and she was behind on their way to the hospital. I am floored. My first call was to Jason for more prayer. So I had to get ready for work. As I was on my way to work all I could do was pray. All of sudden I just start getting these feelings. I start to just look around me and take in what I am feeling. I get this message that there are angels around and that my cousin will be ok. So I just take it all in. As soon as I get to work I want to text my aunt but we got so busy. I spoke to her once while I was work and my cousin was good. Still doing tests but things looked great. After work I call my aunt and she tells me that they were home and everything looked great for her and her friend that was in the car. So I tell my aunt my story. She started to cry. But I just knew what I had experienced had to be told. Then 2 days later she calls me to tell me everything was good and my cousin went back to work. Praise God!!!! And that the first person on the scene that helped told her that he saw the van flying in the air. But that it had been flying in slow motion, and then as it did its last flip he saw hands cradle the van and set it on the ground. She had not told of my story because my story was after the accident. But he believed he had seen hands carefully set that van down. The police told my aunt that they have no idea how they survived, let alone came out as well as they did. I praise God for all of His great works in my family. He is amazing how He took care of my 16 year cousin. Thank you Father. I just had to share with you a great story of our Fathers love.

Rough Mountain Trails

Last week I was hiking a mountain trail just after dawn with a friend who is an avid hiker. The dirt trail went up, down, around the side of one hill, and up again. Sometimes it was narrow, with a dangerous drop-off on one side; sometimes it was relatively wide, but choked with ankle-turning river stones. The ragged, uneven path seemed to me an analogy of our life’s journey. Living and relating to people is never smooth, but instead is choked with places that threaten to twist our thinking or break us apart. Sometimes the only way through is a narrow exacting rift along the mountainside, with the danger of falling to the bottom if we make a false step from the path.

Perhaps our paved sidewalks and smooth wide streets have given us a false analogy of life; we expect our journey to be smooth, a gentle, air-conditioned ride free of effort, stones and danger. But the real journey of life requires attention to the dangers and avoidance of being distracted at crucial moments. In real life, there are times when a momentary distraction could take us over the edge. And in real life the necessity to stop and rest pulls at us among the pressures.

The Lord’s promise that no one ever wants to claim is “In this world you shall have tribulation…” although we all want the second half, “but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world.”

When the pressures come, and the bumps in life’s road, do this quick self-check:

1) Check the path you’re on. Have you taken a detour? Are you really on the path, or are you bushwhacking?
2) Check your heart, your motives before the Lord. Are the bumps because you’ve forgotten His command to “Love the Lord your God and your neighbor as yourself”?
3) Check your stamina. Is it time for a rest break? How long since you got alone with God to be refreshed with the water of His Word?
4) Check your companions. Are you taking the journey with people who lift you up and encourage you?

After these checks, grip a fresh, renewed perspective and move forward with certainty that God is with you.

Listen to His words to you today:

Mt. 11:30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Mt. 28:20 “Surely I am with you always…”

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Wash My Back!

Pastor's sermon on Sunday about testimonies reminded me of this experience which I had in my writer's group a couple of years ago.

Wash My Back!

Proverbs 27:6 Wounds from a friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. NLT

Yesterday was a tough day at my writers group. We met in the park, enjoying the sun and fresh air, a one-time departure from our usual meetings in a member’s home. The group critiqued my story; I hoped they would decree it ‘ready for publication,’ but they didn’t get it. Disappointed, I tried to defend it with explanations. It was like trying to explain a failed joke--it only made it worse. I left feeling frustrated, wondering whether I was only kidding myself about being a writer. I spent an hour fuming, certain I couldn’t snip out the offending bits, then realized I could just try the change, print it, and see what happened. It worked!

In the middle of the night, I awoke, still trying to process the experience at a deeper level. I pondered the day’s events, praying for forgiveness of my over-reaction and for clarity.

As I lay awake, the situation crystallized into a startling mental picture of God’s work in our lives: Our group was in the park, enjoying a sunny day. The tree over our heads was transformed into an enormous sprinkler. We were all splashing in its sparkling water in our swimsuits. When we were thoroughly wet, out came the sponges, bath puffs, washcloths and pumice stones, and we began to wash each other’s backs. Small specks were wiped away, large stains were rubbed vigorously, even tattoos were assailed with the pumice. Most of us had clean, but reddened, skin at the end of the session.

God’s Spirit seemed to be saying, “I’m the healing ointment that takes the sting out of the hard scrubbing. You need others to clean your back -- you can’t reach it, you can’t see the blemishes that are there. Don’t fight them; if you want to be ready for the unveiled exposure of publishing, you must welcome the cleansing of thoughtful assessment.”

My tensions gave way to wonder, then peace; sleep followed the deep relaxation of insight. When morning came, I sent an e-mail thanking my fellow group members for their input. I need my friends’ criticisms to remove unsightly flaws and smudges. I need to relax under their attentions, not put up my dukes and fight them.

Proverbs 27:5 An open rebuke is better than hidden love. NLT
Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens a friend. NLT

Questions to ponder:
Am I receiving criticism as the cleansing God means it to be?
Am I allowing Him to take the sting out of the deep scrubbings?
When giving constructive advice, am I being respectful of the other's feelings and keeping a mindset of humility?
Do I refresh others with encouraging words of stimulation to be the best they can be?

Prayer: Lord, help me receive critical input from others as a refreshing scrub. Pour in the healing oil of your Spirit to calm the sting. Make all of me ready for the exposure that comes from a visible Christian life. Amen.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Prayers Answered This Week

David wrote, "Bless the LORD, O, my soul and all that is within me bless His holy name!" With this phrase, David encouraged himself instead of waiting to be prodded or persuaded by someone else to remember how WONDERFUL and AMAZING our God really is. We often fail to take time to Bless the LORD because we are so busy thinking about all of the remaining problems and needs in our lives.

Today I want to give "specific" and "verifiable" praise to the LORD for answered prayers:
(1) Cathy Putze reports that God has done wonderful things for her during her days after surgery!
(2) Lula Shoff had another chemotherapy treatment last week and has not experienced the extreme nausea as in previous treatments!
(3) Orion and Andrea Worley called this evening to report that they have received multiple offers on their home since committing to come to Arizona if their home sale and job transfer could be worked out. Also, Orion has accepted a job transfer with U.S. Bank to a branch in Glendale with the same pay and benefits as his current position in Minnesota. They wanted you to know that because of your prayers they plan to move to Glendale to help us with the SHINE Youth Ministries and other church ministries beginning August 6th.

Now do you have any trouble finding something to help you with your motivation to worship this week? I can't wait to experience the excitement of Destiny Church in worship next Sunday! As we worship Him, he will energize and empower our worship. This is going to be a GREAT week of praise and celebration of His great love for Destiny Church. See you there!!!

Pastor Arvle

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Thank You

THANK YOU TESTIMONY

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to me doing my recent "challenge". Not only has the miracle of physical healing taken place but the manisfestation of love toward each in a very special way. Permitt me to explain.

On March 18 my husband had left knee replacement. He came home March 20 and his care was 24/7 so I was getting no sleep whatsoever. On March 27 I discovered I had abnormal bleeding and after doctor visits was diagnosed with uterine cancer. I cannot put into words the fear that engulfed me and with the exhaustion I could barely function. I sat down with the Lord and decided that God had blessed me and who am I to question why this entered my life and determined I would go whatever route the Lord wanted me to go. I prayed and asked others to pray for me. God gave me such a vision of the glory of Jesus and of Heaven that I truly was not afraid if I lived or died; either way there was victory. What I did not expect was the other miracle God had in mind when he sent me to Destiny and that is the miracle of love like I have not experienced from any group of people before. Every day from Pastor and Beverly in the pre-op to visitors to people bringing food in 112-115 degree weather was blessed. You do not know how much your visits and kindness have meant. I could never repay such incredible and overwhelming love so instead I will pray that God give all of you the same and more tremendous vision of His Son and Heaven. Thank you that we can "overcome the challenges of life together"

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Titus 3:1-7

I was reading my bible the other night. This hit my heart with an arrow. For me it was like I had read my life. My heart was overcome with joy that I have found the Lord. I am so thankful that I have left the darkness that I lived in for so long and found the light. " Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." As soon as I started reading that all I could see was "I" in place of we. All I could think was Praise God I am free of those chains. Thank you Lord. You are great.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Thirsty? Try Living Water!

Staying hydrated in summer heat is vital to our health, and our family doesn't leave the house without several water bottles this time of year.

Jesus knew how vital Living Water is to our spiritual health, and offered himself as water for our thirsty souls on several occasions:

To the Samaritan woman at the well Jn. 4:10-13.
To Nicodemus Jn. 3:5.
To the Temple crowd at the Feast of Tabernacles Jn. 7:37-38.

On the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles, the Jewish Priests would pour 'living water' from a golden pitcher on (or beside) the altar as a commemoration of thanks to God for supplying rain from heaven for the crops. The water must be caught from a flowing stream to be designated as 'living.'

Jesus was announcing himself as the stream of life-giving water that flows from God. How do we drink from Him?

.. Make time to worship God, resting in his presence
.. Walk in the Spirit, listening for his guidance in everyday life
.. Read the Word, shaping your life according to its principles
.. Remaining in fellowship with God's people for encouragement
.. Release the flow onto others through ministry

Christ used our need for water as an emblem of our essential need for God. Step into the flow and be refreshed, cleansed and filled.

For a short video biography, watch Who Did Christ Claim to be?

Do you have more ideas about how to receive and express the living water? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts.

Marsha

Sunday, July 12, 2009

filled with the Holy Spirit

As I was driving home one night from work I was filled with the Holy Spirit. I was listening to a song that just made me raise my hands in praise. As soon as I did this an amazing sensation took over and I knew the Holy spirit was there. My eyes filled with tears and my my heart was so full of love. I could not sing to the song anymore because all I could do was release myself. I had not known that I was in need of any love at that moment but as I let myself be filled all I felt was love. I guess I needed to be loved more than I knew. I had been praying about family the few days before and had just let it go and moved on. But our glorious Lord knew what I needed and when. It was a beautiful moment. Thank you Lord. You are so wounderful and amazing. You are there for us when we think we are alone. Bless You Lord.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Psalm 43

" Vindicate me, O God,
and plead my cause against an ungodly nation;
rescue me from deceitful and wicked men.
You are God my stronghold.
Why have you rejected me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppresses by the enemy?
Send forth your light and your truth,
let them guide me;
let them bring me to your holy mountain,
to the place where you dwell.
Then will I go to the altar of God,
to God, my joy and my delight.
I will praise you with the harp,
O God, my God

Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God."

I asked God to help me and to show me what is was that He wanted me to see and that is the passage that I looked down at. God surely is wonderful and can truly help you when you feel your worst, that is what he has done for me today. Thank you Jesus for everything. I hope that He is doing wonders in all your lives today, for He has helped to show me who I am and what I am here for. May God Bless all of you today.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Hello Everybody

Hi everyone,
I am figuring this out and just wanted to say "hi" to everyone. Also I would like to ask if everyone could pray for me to find a job. I have been having a problem finding one and I have been praying for one but I think now it is going to take a little more than just me praying at this time. Please just keep me in your prayers during this difficult time. Thank you and I miss all of you so much.

God Bless all of you,
Jennifer Martinez

New to our blog?

For those who are new to our blog, WELCOME!

We want this to be a place to minister the Word and prayer to each other, and to make plans that will lead to spiritual growth.

Everyone can read what is posted, but if you want to comment or post, you must be added to our blogroll of writers -- just contact me with your email address and I'll send out the link. The link will expire after a certain length of time (a month or two, I think), so if you were sent a link several months ago, it may not work. I'll be happy to send another one.

Please share!! Suggestions are:

A verse from scripture that inspires you

A brief story of God's work in your life

A short scriptural insight that will be an encouragement to all

Prayer needs and answers to prayer

Ideas for how we can increase our knowledge of God and his Word

Ideas for ministry to our hurting world

May this place of connection be a blessing to all who participate.

Marsha

Home from Hospital

Cathy Putze is now home from the Hospital. Thanks to all who have prayed for her during her surgery. Please continue to pray during her recovery time. Encouraging calls are also welcome, and some ladies are bringing meals while she is limited in her activities. This is a great time to experience Christian love, fellowship and ministry!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Hi Everyone.
I want to ask for prayer.Crystal went to the doctor with kidney pain that has been on going.she was tested for stones.we will hear back soon. Keep her in your prayers that we get a complete healing no matter what the level is.we believe that God will heal her and we receive that blessing fully.Thanks for your support.God Bless.Jason

Monday, July 6, 2009

Hey everybody! i am trying to figure out a good night for us guys to get together. i want to have some of the guys over, throw brauts or whatever on the grill and watch some stand-up comedy.we all lead stressful lives and we need to have time to laugh and refresh. so if anybody thinks they would like to join me,let me know.i'm thinking a sunday night.although i am open to time suggestions.the comic i have to watch is a christian comic named jeff allen.see everyone at church!God Bless!

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

hope im doing this right!?

i hope i am doing this right.i have never done anything like this.i check e mails and surf the web a little. so this is way outside my computer comfort zone.i mean come on i just learned how to copy and paste!not a computer guy,but i will give it a shot.the destiny site marsha set up looks really neat and would hope that all of us at destiny will us it.thank you marsha for taking time out of your busy days to do this.talk to you all soon here or at church!

Saturday, April 25, 2009

A Leadership Path Proposal

Take a look at the proposed Leadership Path for Destiny members. We've already had some great additional ideas from the Thursday night class, but you can take a look at the framework we started with, and add your input through joining this blog, or talking to us at church.

Watch the Leadership Path slideshow and leave your comments below.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Answer to prayer at AIC

Praise Report. One of my associates (Dr Peralta, a professor at American Indian College) tripped in December 2008 and injured his knee. It was very painful and it took 3 months for him to get to the right specialist who could perform the needed surgery. At the school we began praying earnestly for him. After all the tests and surgery was getting ready to be scheduled, it stopped hurting. The doctor ran more tests and doesn't understand what happened. God has healed his knee. He still needs prayer though since they discovered some heart damage.

Praise and Prayers on Palm Sunday

PRAISE = Thanks, Lord, for these wonderful answers to prayer!

Jason & Crystal's son Anthony is recovering well from surgery.
Ernie, a Navajo, received Christ, when Chuck shared with him.
Native American Youth Convention drew 500+ students to fellowship and spiritual retreat at AIC.
Marvin Putze came through knee surgery and is recovering at home.


PRAYERS = Lord, pour your grace out on these situations....

Lula Schoff's health problems
Wilma, Cathy Putze's sister, will need surgery on her kidney, also has a heart problem.
Marvin, for full strength and stability in his knee now that his surgery was successful.
Anthony for complete recovery of appetite as the days progress.
Sharon's clients Nitha and Teresa for spiritual needs.
Lolly's father in Tucson had sudden health problems last week, not yet diagnosed.
Connie Garcia for full health and strength.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

What do I talk to God about?

Can a blog stimulate my prayer life?

YES, and here’s how:

You’ll have a chance to read and pray for requests left here. Just take a moment after reading each request to lift that need up to God. In Luke 5:17-20, a sick man was brought to Christ for healing – using the unusual method of breaking a hole in the roof over the room where Christ was, then letting the man down through the hole in front of Jesus. The Lord responded by forgiving his sins first, then healing him. We can be the friends bringing these issues before the Lord.

Secondly, you’ll learn more about prayer from teachings posted here. Scriptural insights on prayer clarify our personal experiences with God, and light the path forward on the journey.

In addition, the practice of prayer with others on a regular basis has been a method of spiritual growth since early church times. See some examples in Acts 1:14, 2:42, 3:1, 4:24. Our method of gathering – in this blog - is 21st century, but the 1st century promise found in Matt. 18:19-20 still applies.

Join in the discussion, activate your faith on behalf of others, and let us know what God is doing.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Destiny Connects....


People to People
People to God
People to God's Word
God's Word to Life


Come along with us on the journey to know God through prayer, the Word, and through connecting with each other in an authentic way. You'll hear about our prayer needs, answers to prayer, what God said to us in the week's sermon or Bible study, and celebrations of God's activity in our lives. Jump in and share your thoughts, questions, prayer requests and celebrations.

Jer. 29:11