Thanks, God

So the other day, I was praying and focusing on a heart of thanksgiving (even though it's August... crazy, right!?). A thought came into my mind as I was offering my thanks to the Lord: God, thank you for making me who I am, not who I want to be!

I often find myself praying that I would not struggle with certain sins, that I would have been created another way, or that I could change my flaws. I did have an epiphany in my moment of prayer, though. I really am thankful that God created me just the way I am. If I were created just the way I want to be, I would never have the opportunities to trust God's sovereignty.

God cannot tempt anyone with evil, I know that. However, I believe that it may be a gracious act of God NOT to heal, NOT to restore, NOT to take away our sins, brokenness, and maladies. In our brokenness and weakness, I believe that God spiritually forms us. My inept causes me to trust God, not myself. My inability leads me to the cross. He may never fully restore this side of eternity, but my faith and perseverance may greatly increase because of his gracious no to our prayers.

National Day of Prayer

Join us at Pacific Church of Irvine for our experiential prayer room.  Each station acts as a catalyst to help you pray for the World, our country, our community, personal needs, and then take communion.  The prayer room is open today from 8am-8pm.  Join us for a prayer walk at 9am, 12pm, 3pm, or 6pm! 

Playing with Light

This is what we set up for youth group last night.  It was a great night of conversation and wrapping up our series on vision: Rooted, Growing, Serving, Sowing.  The environment was warm and inviting.  More and more I am finding that the tone we set before youth group, whether with music, candles, prayer, smiles, and encouragements sets the tone for how the night runs.  I don't attribute it all to the "stuff" we do because God can do anything through anything!  However, I still stand by the fact that environment is important.  If anything, we can create space to allow God to move, not our expectations.