And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (Rom 5:3-6)

Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me, O Lord GOD of hosts; let not those who seek you be brought to dishonor through me, O God of Israel. (Psalm 69:6)



Saturday, July 12, 2008

Restore, Revise, Refresh

Restore, Revise, Refresh

In a matter of time my family and I will be taking time to be together without the nuances of the urgent. I praise God for places of respite and retreat. It is good for a person to get alone with God. I recently have been enamored by how often in this country’s history God spoke to people when they went away, often for a walk in the woods, to be alone with Him. In a sense that is what we are about to do.

Annually we attend Family Camp. It’s a ministry of Life Action Ministries, at LifeAction.org. Years ago we attended one camp. It was unlike any vacation ever. We were weary physically, spiritually starved and struggling, and perplexed in the call. But the work of God in that time was what we often hunger for. As a matter of fact we skipped the next year and spent the summer lamenting over our poor decision to stay home.

We have learned a lesson. The family needs time together in the presence of seeking God. Disney is nice, but its no Family Camp. It’s a God centered experience that is much like the bread God gave Elisha that lasted 40 days.

Here are ten things I want to share as to why we go to camp.

1. It’s a spiritual marker. It brings to our hearts the blessings of God over the past year and promotes worship.

2. It restores our perspective on God and what matters most.

3. Camp affords us (Its also affordable) time together that we don’t often get in great amounts to go deeper with one another.

4. The example it give us and our kids brings great encouragement to live for Christ.

5. Opportunities are created for exploring the depths of our Christianity and maturity that otherwise are forgotten in the drone of life.

6. Hope for revival is always there. We always encounter people that are longing for God and revival in the land.

7. There is a refreshing perspective for humility. The conviction of sin and the grace of God are hallmarks of what this camp is about. It always takes a person from self centeredness to God centeredness. Much if this is exuded from the camp staff, their living out faith is always the greatest message.

8. Returning home you yourself carry back a fire that blesses others. You will ignite love within the church because of the sincere meeting you have had with God.

9. God will work through you to persevere. The sovereignty of God becomes evermore real and a doctrine for life.

10. There is transcendence. God is not boxed up. Family Camp opens spiritual eye to perceive a greater God that you had ever imagined before.

Folks, Family Camp is often booked full. If you can’t get in, pray they can expand. But reguardless of all your plans, always make time to be alone with God.

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