Bring em in

I grew up in Suburbia. My church was the bling bling on the side of randall road. You look in the windows and there it is..37+ flat screen tv's, a cafe, pool, pinball, karaoke, wi's playstations, every teenagers dream. Next comes the childrens ministry windows, with our climbing area riddled with children scaling wood beams that the entire world can see. We were the suburban mega church.  I loved my church. We had been there forever, so seeing people we knew wasn't difficult, the messages were inspiring and biblically sound. and i was involved.

Living in Chicago this summer, I experienced a different feel than my suburb lifestyle and even MOody lifestyle. I decided to stay in the city, hoping to be a light in the secular world, but realized how discouragin and lost our world is.  Along with being mocked and ridiculed in sarcastic tones and even people taking advantage of me being the "nice girl", Christianity to them was exactly what my church was, rich and a feel good escape.

I was living in boys town, working in the heat of it. One day at work i got to experience the gay pride parade go right past our door. Images like this, and 10 times worse were walking in and out of my work. I wonder how suburbia would have treated that situation.  Those people I worked with were working at what I call a "high school" job, full-time, partying every night, enjoying every gossip that could be found.  Church was that condemning gropu of rich people who judged and said "burn, burn, burn".  Suburbia had life 'easy', but sheltered. On the day of the gay pride parade I almost lost my cool at the manager when he proceeded ot tell all the workers...and i quote, "according to Christy, all those sinners are going to burn in hell". I stood up for myself on that one. I did not nor would I say that. Yes, i disapprove of their actions but i love them, they were intricately created and knit together by the all-loving master craftsman. They may very well be going to hell, but I have no right to condemn them there, that is for GOd to judge, not me.

My default in life to sharing the Gospel has been, find a way to get them to church.. bring them in. My home church, plastered that idea in my mind. They built that huge student building for that purpose, to bring them in. It became a cop-out and I believe has become that way for many students in our generation. I will get them to church and let the pastor win them to Christ.  I'll do my part, and he can do the rest (with God's help of course).  Even today at lunch, a woman my parents knew had lunch with us and explained how her church wouldn't build a gym, because they wanted the people to go join a basketball league and be amongst the not yet believers, to dine with them, build relationship with them. My church, built the gym, the studnet center, the auditorium, as a "seeker-friendly" environment. Quite the opposite.

My approach this summer was wrong. I spent dozens of converstaions with one guy particular, trying to get him to come with me to church, when he just wanted to hang out..a perfeect opportunity for ME to share the Gospel. Yet in my own fear i felt the pastor should do it..i mean he's more trained than me...right?

My question is, what is our society, training up the next generation to do iwht our faith. Have we created thousands of students, that think the only way to "become a Christian" is by following me to church?  Did Jesus say in his great commission, to "COME in, and make disciples"...no, he told us to GO. The church is so important and there is a time where invitation is necessary, but has that become the excuse? oh, they won't come to church with me so I guess they won't ever be reached. Has church become our shield so we don't have to face quesitons we may not know, or rejection, or persecution?

Obedience to the call to make disciples isn't always easy, but the Lord challenges us to GO, and find them and be a light in darkness.

Jesus left the comfort of heaven to come down to an unfamiliar, sinful, pain filled world. He meets us right where we are at and loves us in the midst of our pain and hurt and sin.  Shouldn't we be doing to same?

The Connector

SO...

Tonight I had the opportunity to hear Francis Chan speak at Moody Bible Institute after working during the Legacy conference there. It blew my mind...

Why? :
       Because God tied a year's worth of wrestling and confusion into one, showing me the truth behind the small things that continuously bugged me and i experienced this year.

Summer: encouragement circle. Everyone said, "You are the epitome of a godly women" "Prayer warrior" "Truly a woman seeking the face of the Lord"...I cried. Not out of flattery, but out of pain...
     REACTION: confusion of why I felt hurt and frustrated.

Fall: Identity Crisis. Looking into the past and issues that have brought me to where I am now and growing from them and getting through them.
       REACTION: reason. Shined on true motives and underlying intentions in my actions. Is it pure love or is it selfish

Winter/Spring: Growth. The power of a vision.  The Lord lays ideas and burdens my heart for things and  with friends beside me we witnessed the power of God through prayer and fasting.
         REACTION: burden for the lost.  a reputation amongst the people around me. friendship.

Spring/Summer: Questioning. This is where my last blog coincides.  The idea of a hierarchy. It tore me up inside.  A fear was growing after the ministry. This expectation from the people around me, one that i didn't feel like i was living up to.
        REACTION: give up, toss in the towel, run from people and from God. Cover up my fear. Mask it all. Maintain the reputation

Summer: Loneliness & ministry.  What does it mean to bear fruit? Is it converts. No, it is a lifestyle of love as Pastor Aaron Youngren talked about in church last Sunday (ironically the one sunday I go to the Line Church), talks exactly on what i have been struggling with in bearing fruit in our lives today.
         REACTION: hope, but still a sense of fear and failure in the eyes of God.

Tonight: the message. I will just rewrite what i wrote in my journal tonight.
All these little things that I've been wrestling with & feeling the Lord really used Francis Chan's message tonight to speak to me. Rev. 3:1 was written to a church & says "I know your reputation for being alive but you are dead" I have been scared of dying for fear of this hierarchy of cities according to works. I have been wrestling with the concept of "bearing fruit" I read a biography on missionaries in Africa and grew aware of my jealousy for those who have the blessed ministry in the burbs..pastor's of a church, seeing growth, but yet the largest struggle is the broken car. I get caught up with reputation and what people see me as. At passion 2010 they challenged us to think not "what you want to be when you get older" but "who you will become". My 2 things were a woman of prayer and love. Well,  not that i am trying to live according to those ambitions..things have gotten a bit tougher than just becoming a leader in the church. I use godliness and Jesus as a mask to be desirable to the poeple around me.  I am giving to the Lord, but is it my first fruits or am I giving solely what others can see.  They see life, but God "searches me and knows me".  I feel not good enough, but is there reason behind that.  Is God convicting me that I am holding on to my sin, my pride, my mask? Am I madly in love wiht JESUS, or am I creating a mirage hoping that people see me over Him.  Some tough stuff right there.

I leave with this.
Rev. 2:4-5
 ⁴But I have this against you, that you have abandoned^(H) the love you had at first. ⁵Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do^(I) the works you did at first. If not,^(J) I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.


My response to this:
      1. Consider: Remember my first love, the love and intimacy I once have. Rekindle the flame of love
      2. Repent: Recognize the sin the has caused the abandonment and me to forget my first love
      3. Bear Fruit: Do the works I did at first: LOVE God, LOVE people. Live boldly, passionately, and fully in intimacy with Christ

DISC: whats yours

What does it mean to be a…?

D Personality (Choleric) Driven I Personality (Sanguine) Inspiring ·adventuresome ·aggressive ·arrogant ·authoritative ·blunt ·bold ·bossy ·brash ·bull-headed ·career-driven ·confident ·controlling ·crafty ·decisive ·determined ·disciplined ·doer ·dominates a group ·domineering ·driven ·effective ·emphatic ·fast ·firm ·focused ·hard ·harsh ·hostile ·hot-tempered ·impatient ·impetuous ·impulsive ·initiating ·insensitive ·intense ·intuitive ·manipulative ·opportunist ·optimistic ·outgoing ·over- bearing ·persuasive ·practical ·productive ·quick ·restless ·self-confident ·self-disciplined ·self-sufficient ·single-minded ·short-tempered ·strong- willed ·task-oriented ·temperamental ·tenacious ·thick-skinned ·unaffectionate ·unemotional ·bubbly ·carefree ·changeable ·charismatic ·charming ·childlike ·compassionate ·compromising ·conversation has a contagious quality that induces similar mood in hearers ·curious ·disorganized ·easily distracted ·easygoing ·emotional ·enjoys life ·enthusiastic ·exaggerates ·expressive ·extroverted ·eye for nature and art ·friendly ·impractical ·impulsive ·influencing ·insecure (masked by apparent self-confidence) ·insensitive ·inspiring ·lacks coherence in life because too “now” focused and too open to impressions ·lively ·loves being in the limelight ·natural magnetic grace ·optimistic ·outgoing ·people-centered ·persuasive ·popular ·positive ·responsive ·restless ·self-indulgent ·spontaneous ·superficial ·talkative ·tender ·undependable meeting deadlines ·undisciplined ·warm ·weak-willed C Personality (Melancholy) Analytical S Personality (Phlegmatic) Avoids conflict ·artistic ·calculating ·cheerless ·competent ·concise ·conscientious ·conservative ·consistent ·contemplation leads to paralysis ·controlling ·correct ·creative ·critical ·dependable ·depressed ·depressing ·detailed ·dissatisfied ·dissects self ·efficient ·faithful ·feels unapproved ·Follows rules ·hard to get along with ·idealistic ·impatient ·impossible to please ·impractical ·inflexible ·intolerant ·introverted ·intelligent ·investigative ·irritable ·knowledgeable ·loyal ·methodical ·moody ·negative ·opinionated ·organized ·overly self – critical ·perfectionist ·pessimistic ·precise ·proud ·quality centered ·reserved ·revengeful ·rigid ·sacrificial ·self-centered ·self-examining ·self-sacrificing ·self-torturous ·sensitive ·structured ·suspicious ·task-oriented ·theoretical ·thin-skinned ·traditional ·uncompromising ·unemotional ·not talkative ·values quality of life ·avoids risk ·calm ·cautious ·compromising ·consistent ·cool-headed ·cooperative ·dependable ·desires security ·diplomatic ·easily influenced ·efficient ·encourager ·faithful ·fearful ·flexible ·follows rules ·free-spirited ·good-natured ·indecisive ·kind ·lacks confidence ·lacks drive ·loyal ·naive ·needs affirmation ·non-confrontational ·not brittle under stress ·not easily aroused or disturbed ·passive ·patient ·peaceful ·people-oriented ·persistent ·placid ·planner ·practical ·protective ·puts down and limits feelings ·reserved ·self-protective ·sensitive ·shy ·sincere ·slow to change ·specialist ·stable ·steady ·stubborn regarding change ·submissive ·sweet ·team-oriented ·thoughtful ·timid ·unambitious ·unassertive

What does God Say About My Personality…?

D personalities need to learn to listen and not always speak their own opinions. James 1 :19 …Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak… D personalities need to be aware of their tendency to be angry. Proverbs 16:32 – Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city. D personalities need to learn that love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are not options for a Christian. Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control… D personalities need to forgive others. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you. D personalities must place their faith in God and not in their own self-sufficiency. Mark 11:22 ‘…Have faith in God,’ Jesus answered. D personalities are generally successful because of their strong will and determination. I Corinthians 9:24-27 …Run in such a way to get the prize… D personalities are aggressive and display leadership qualities. Acts 17:4 And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul…		I personalities need to learn that there is a time to be still. Psalm 46:10 …be still and know that I am God. I personalities need to learn to listen to others. Proverbs 19:20 Listen to counsel… I personalities need to recognize the need for structure and organization. I Corinthians 14:40 Let all things be done properly and in an orderly manner. I personalities need to learn to be sensitive to feelings of others. Colossians 1:12 …put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I personalities must work to have discipline in their lives. II Timothy 2:15 Study to present yourself approved to God… I personalities are bold in sharing their faith. Acts 4:20 …for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard. I personalities look opportunities to help others. Galatians 6: 10 …let us do good to all men. I personalities do not waver between God’s call and immediate action once they understand it. Mark 1:17-18 ‘Follow Me’ ,…And they immediately left… I personalities do not find it hard to obey God’s command to assemble together. Hebrews 10:25 …not forsaking our own assembling together…
C personalities must recognize that much of has to be lived by faith. I Corinthians 12:12 …now I know in part… C personalities struggle with forgiving those who have wronged them. Ephesians 4:32 …forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has forgiven you. C personalities often allow their thinking to be negative and can allow this negative thinking to lead to depression. Philippians 4:8 …what ever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. C personalities need to guard against using words to criticize others. Proverbs 15:1  A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger. C personalities do not struggle with being humble. C personalities set the example when it comes to having things done properly and in order. I Corinthians 14:40 But let all things be done properly and in an orderly manner. C personalities strive to keep doctrine pure and unadulterated. II Timothy 2:15 …handling accurately the word of truth to show thyself approved, rightly dividing the word. C personalities do not struggle with the command to correct wrongs when they are obvious. II Timothy 4:2 …reprove, rebuke, exhort with great patience.		S personalities use their soft, sensitive words to resolve conflict. Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath. S personalities stay loyal even when someone has failed them. Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times… S personalities are able to bring peace to unsettled situations by their words and attitude. Ephesians 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. S personalities often lack confidence. Exodus 4:1  What if they will not believe me, or listen to what I say? S personalities must learn not everyone is sincere and truthful. Ephesians 4:6 Let no one deceive you with empty words… S personalities need to have confidence in the gifts God has given them. Romans 12:3 …God has allotted to each a measure of faith. S personalities shy away from responsibilities that require exposure of wrong/harsh action. Ephesians 4:11 …do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them.

How does my personality affect my thinking?

D Personality (Choleric) D’s are known for their keen, quick minds. They use their sharp and highly intuitive perceptions of people and situations to “know” what needs to be done; they then focus themselves and others on the ideal kind of action that gets things done. As realists who are relatively practical, D’s may only think deep and long enough to create a workable plan without much concern for underlying theory. Thus, their thinking can be crafty, driven, and purposeful, but also lack calm foresight, imagination, and sufficient planning. D’s can be commonplace, humdrum, tiresome, dull, unimaginative, and boring in their thinking, and often find it hard to develop an inner life of meaningful reflection.

I Personality (Sanguine) I’s are awakened by and responsive to exciting and thrilling experiences. Their responses in life are direct and not particularly reflective or planned. I’s tend to process their thoughts aloud and spontaneously, without organizing them in advance. Their thinking may come across to some other personalities as unclear, illogical, inconsistent, confused, and superficial. However, because they are always looking for “the new,” they can often appreciate completely different approaches to dull things, and speak of the ordinary in very charming ways. I’s need to learn the thinking arts of reflection and self-examination to combat their tendency to distraction, tangents, and shallowness.

C Personality (Melancholy) C’s have the most complex layered mental abilities of the four personalities. They want to get to the bottom of everything, and their thinking is deep, thorough, and reflective. C’s will never be accused of being superficial or phony, but this has down sides. Their strong imagination tends to lead to romanticism, their analysis can lead to being judgmental, and their ordering can lead to perfectionism. Their tendency for idealism and perfectionism can lead to frequent disillusionment, which may fuel serious doubts and a desire to remove themselves even more from the real world through daydreaming. Still, C’s are highly creative and sharply stimulating; their thoughts are well considered, expressed with originality, and they are highly conscientious.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s tend to have a calm, clear intellect that is unclouded because of their generally unemotional nature. This tends to give them a good range of intellectual ability, although it may not be as deep or insightful as that of some other personalities. S’s are often able to put to practical use the brilliant ideas of others. They have a no-nonsense, practical mind, which is less prone to “wishful thinking.” However, they drift too easily into rationalism, and also tend to modify their ideals until they are workable.

How does my Personality affect my emotions & how I control them?

D Personality (Choleric) When it comes to emotions, D’s are noted for being quick-tempered, abrupt, and hard. They are the most likely of the personalities to react in anger. Not only is their emotional nature unemotional, they have no use for sensitivity and can be unfeeling. This means they do not sympathize well with others’ pain or grief. They may appear very thick-skinned, and do not comprehend what is tender, delicate, and fragile in life. It can be difficult to interest D’s in religion, as they see it as mere emotionalism.

I Personality (Sanguine) Intense but inconsistent feelings predominate in the world of I’s. They are very sensitive and have a rich, broad-ranged emotional life. Their emotions are easily stirred by impressions from the outside world – either in constructive or destructive directions – and their typical overreactions often lead to “a mood.” But emotions are fleeting, and I’s frequently experience quick reversals of feeling. They may go from sulking to elation. This emotionality affects their involvement in causes, by which they are easily and intensely interested… for the moment. In expressing their feelings, I’s tend to be talkative, extreme, vivid, and emphatic.

C Personality (Melancholy) Feelings predominate C’s, giving them a rich, sensitive nature (often over- sensitive, easily crushed). Ironically, C’s typically feel more than they can express. For instance, C’s are not quick-tempered, but can erupt in pent-up anger. Sadly, they are pessimistic, moody, and preoccupied with their own emotional pain. C’s constantly dissect themselves, and see little in their worlds that is encouraging. Impressions of self can dig and bury deeply and work actively in their imaginations, leading to depression – as when promises they break or errors they make may distress them for a long time or even a lifetime!

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s are frequently described as dependable, tranquil and cool. They maintain their inner emotional balance and come across as easy-going and levelheaded in all situations. Because S’s are clear-minded and levelheaded, they do not become restless or annoyed by imperfection. They are not caught off guard, not tense, and not into reform and change. They have the strength and presence of mind to assess risky situations calmly, consider the possibilities, and choose the best way out. But for all the potentially positive dimensions of those character qualities, on the downside, S’s are also sometimes empty-hearted, dispassionate and indifferent.

How does my Personality affect my will and my self-discipline?

D Personality (Choleric) For D’s, will is the controlling factor. Life consists of action and work as a show of their urge toward self-determination and a response to external factors. (D’s also like making decisions for others.) They possess strong will power, a sharp mind, focus, and stamina which helps their actions be quick, bold, and decisive, though perhaps hasty and impulsive. D’s are not dismayed by barriers or adversities, but see oppositions as challenges that spur them on in their adventures. They are risk-takers, avoiding the safe and everyday, and drawn to the hazardous and unknown. D’s often are active, but unreflective, unyielding, but over the edge, persistent but practical, fiery but foolhardy.

I Personality (Sanguine) When it comes to self-discipline, I’s have good hearts but undependable follow-through. Their will is not particularly stirred, and so their actions are unpredictable and inconsistent, even if they show initiative in new ideas or projects. I’s may prove spontaneous and surprising, but are also shallow, forgetful, and distracted. They may even invent excuses for why they “could not” (actually, “did not”) carry out their obligations. They may be the Personality most likely to enjoy life, but also to leave this world with a trail of unaccomplished goals. The bottom line: They have good intentions in their promising, but are unreliable in deciding, and weak-willed in persevering.

C Personality (Melancholy) Making decisions and engaging in calculated risks are not strong points for C’s, in part due to their passive nature. Also, their capacity for endless analysis of every possible angle and consequence paralyzes them. The more possible outcomes C’s find, the more difficult it is for them to decide. They finally act only when they must, and then with ongoing doubts and small measures of boldness. C’s are also relatively self-disciplined and know their limitations. They would rather commit to fewer and safer things, and finish what they undertake than make promises they know they can’t keep. Though they are not risk-takers, C’s are self-sacrificers and dependable servants.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) Decision-making and self-discipline are problems for S’s. They are often slow, sluggish, and easygoing. Because they don’t like inconvenience, they are unwilling to exert themselves or be in a hurry. They do consider issues before acting, but still find it hard to overcome their inertia and tendency to procrastinate. Once S’s get moving, they can lay out good plans, efficiently execute them, and prove themselves dependable in follow-through. More often, though, they are calm spectators who are not swayed by emotion. They take the easiest ways instead of being farsighted, and stagnate instead of persevere. S’s can be so practical they compromise their standards when convenient.

How does my Personality affect how I relate to other people?

D Personality (Choleric) Relationships can be a problem for D’s, who often act out their Personality in self-centered ways that show disrespect and lack of consideration for others. D’s are seen as overly self-confident, proud, and haughty. Although they can be good leaders, they can also be domineering in relationships, lack patience with people, and not appreciate the abilities in others. D’s often lack compassion for those who are suffering, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They also use their good judgment of human nature to gain information for their own advantage. Because they see people as tools for their plans, they may be clever, manipulative, and show false concern to get their way. D’s consider apologizing as perhaps the ultimate humiliation; thus, committing to apologizing consistently can help conquer their relational weaknesses.

I Personality (Sanguine) Overall, I’s have the ability to establish heartwarming relationships with a wide range of people. They are warm, cheerful, and extravagant in relating. They accept people as they are, and aren’t bothered by whether people meet certain standards or not. An I’s receptive spirit helps them adjust to others and be genuinely interested in hearing their concerns. They do not disturb others’ happiness with skepticism, criticism, or ridicule, but instead enter into their feelings and thoughts. I’s are tender, sympathetic, and comforting. They are unlikely to become calloused toward people, and will consistently rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. However, they also function by “out of sight, out of mind.” This makes them unreliable, and easily charmed. Fortunately, of the four personalities, I’s can humble themselves and apologize the most easily.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s exercise a stabilizing influence in relationships, even in the midst of disturbing circumstances. They are evenly balanced, calm, and seldom stirred up. They are neither quick-tempered nor in a fuss about “stuff.” S’s are good-natured, easy to get along with, pleasant, cheerful, comfortable, and witty. But they can be apathetic, blasé, not cordial or demonstrative, to the point of being indifferent about others. S’s often study people but have little interest in them, except when their opportunist tendencies see something on which they can capitalize. Otherwise, they can be disinterested spectators who seem apathetic. Their presence has a softening, conciliating effect upon others, and their love of peace and harmony gives them a base for relating with many different kinds of people successfully, and even bringing a unifying presence to groups.

C Personality (Melancholy) C’s have significant problems in relating. They do not make many friends, but those they make, they keep by being faithful, loyal, and dependable. They consider promises a point of honor to keep. However, C’s are hard to get along with or touch, and they are proud. Their sharp ability to analyze lets them see faults in others clearly, and they become critical and judgmental. But their self-centeredness focuses them on how things affect them, not how they affect others. So they cannot analyze their own faults. Their romantic search for the ideal leads them to be uncompromising, disappointed, and self-protective. C’s are easily hurt, suspicious, distant, and not joyful. They may have a persecution complex. They tend to daydream and harbor grudges, which can increase to unbearable proportions. C’s may be the most likely Personality to create disharmony, and to blame, whine, and complain.

How does my Personality affect my leadership roles?

D Personality (Choleric) D’s love to lead and will often volunteer to do so. Ironically, D’s want an environment of freedom and of control so they can do what they want. Their action-orientation does not mean their plans are any better than those developed by other personalities, but their aggressive, firm and consistent nature pushes their plans through. The leadership/authority style of D’s tend to be energetic, impulsive, self-confident, reckless, forceful, crafty, achievement-minded, dictatorial, and bossy. D’s bring goal-orientation and action to a group; they can also bring an opportunistic end-justifies-the-means mentality, and a stubborn spirit.

C Personality (Melancholy) Primarily passive, C’s would rather be followers, not leaders. Still, they display helpful leadership qualities, such as their self-denial and service, uncompromising nature, and willingness to work behind the scenes. C’s effectively analyze plans for their strengths and weaknesses. Unfortunately, this can make it appear they are against projects. But an ability to judge well does not necessarily mean one is judgmental. C’s are prone to be negative, in part because they truly can anticipate upcoming and approaching flaws in plans and actions. They battle disappointment over outcomes that do not match promises. C’s know their limitations and rarely take on more than they should/could do.

I Personality (Sanguine) Ironically, I’s enjoy being free and unrestrained, while at the same time they are controlled and driven by external forces. I’s embrace freedom, and are not governed by rules and regulations. They are easily molded by their environment. I’s are also susceptible to “conning” themselves and others into following a path where the end justifies the means.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s generally won’t take leadership upon themselves. They are, however, quite capable when called into a leadership role. S’s value freedom, yet, ironically, stubbornly oppose change and can control situations by dragging their feet or even damaging a project when they don’t really want to participate in it. When forced into the activities of others that turn out poorly, this fuels a deeper resistance to future activities. S’s do not start projects. They are too much work for their laid-back disposition. S’s are especially subject to compromising their ideals.

How does my Personality affect my communication style?

D Personality (Choleric) D’s may be extroverted, but that does not mean they communicate clearly or kindly with people. D’s are often known for finding it difficult to apologize or show approval, and often for communicating disapproval. They can speak in ways that are blunt and sarcastic, cutting stinging, unaffectionate and harsh. D’s are so driven by their own goals that they tend not to focus on others or listen to what they are saying. They don’t care if people disagree with them, they’ll do what they want to anyway. Their communication is direct and to the point. Others generally know what they think about a subject or another person. They are extremely good at communicating goals and direction for themselves and others.

I Personality (Sanguine) I’s are sociable; words come easily to them. They process their thoughts aloud in a stream that does not include much thinking before they speak. Their style can be noisy, boasting and friendly, impressive, direct, and fascinating. They draw people in, but dominate discussions with topics of personal interest. Still, their conversation is contagious, and it creates similar moods in the listener. I’s speak charmingly about everyday things, and are dramatic and colorful storytellers because of their emotional nature. I’s are restless, making it hard to concentrate on listening to others. But they do apologize readily.

C Personality (Melancholy) C’s generally have opinions (and are often well-informed) about many topics and issues, but they generally withhold them from a conversation unless asked directly what they think. They are accurate and detailed, and tend to dislike exaggeration and ill-advised words. C’s often are suspicious and depressing, which does not endear them to others in conversation. Others find it extremely easy to follow their directions because they are patient when communicating details. They do not communicate words they do not mean. What they say is what they mean. There are no hidden motives in their communication.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s rate very different evaluations on their communication style. On the one hand, they are said to sometimes have an easygoing manner that makes it easy for them to listen to others, and that they can be quite counselor-oriented. On the other hand, they have been noted for their hesitation to become involved with others. They communicate in a calm and peaceful tone and do not generate lots of excitement for those listening. They bring harmony through their words and tend to use words that are not strongly positive or negative. They rarely communicate their disapproval of others. Even when they do, it may be difficult to detect.

How does my Personality affect how I act when I’m offended?

D Personality (Choleric) D’s are known for being revengeful. They do not easily forgive or forget an insult or an injury. Instead, they allow these to encourage them into future actions where they repay people for what they perceive as injustices or wrongs committed against them. D’s tend to be bitter, wrathful, and angry, which, along with the other elements in their response to offenses, makes them ulcer-prone.

I Personality (Sanguine) In general, I’s forget the past easily and live in the present. Therefore they tend to quickly forget offenses against them and move on.

C Personality (Melancholy) C’s are revengeful. In many ways, they live in the past, and find it difficult to forget any kind of insult or offense. Their unforgiving spirit serves to compound the impact of the offense and push it into the future; reflecting on the hurt drives it deeper as the slow-burner on their emotions makes them prone to boil with resentment inside. They carry grudges, and become bitter and prejudiced against people because of unforgiveness.

S Personality (Phlegmatic) S’s wave off offenses as irrelevant, and so do not take offense as easily as other personalities. They live more in the present, not the past, and so do not carry grudges when they have felt offended. They are peace loving, have a high boiling point, and seldom explode in anger. However, when they do explode it is in a cold and vengeful manner.

Moody Revival Part 2

Oh my, I put this off so much...not sure why.
Well, here it goes..

So after we each committed to finding 2 people a day to join with us, we were pumped and right away things got moving.  All of us were sharing and the vision grew and people joined with us, not just fasting once throughout the 40 days but once a week, twice a week, for extended periods etc. It was so encouraging. Just a week following began Founders week at our school, a time when we go to Moody Church and listen to incredible pastors, evangelists, ministry founders, etc share their hearts with us.  It was so encouraging... in many ways..

On Wednesday I believe, during the night, a man named Mark Jobe spoke.  His passion was contagious and at the very beginning said to us. "I pray a lot before I speak, asking that what I say wouldn't be just an encouraging message, but a prophetic word from the Lord".  Well, what Mark Jobe spoke on was Holy Hunger, fasting and waiting upon the LOrd.  Our ministry, our passion, was spoken to that entire group.  Not only this but he gave us a challenge. This challenge was to fast for an extended time during the next 21 days.  Those who took the challenge stood and as I watched this happen (via TV cuz i was working at the coffee shop that night) I was literally going "omgosh omgosh, Lord, you are so much bigger than me, omgosh".  Now, it was out of our hands.  Throw away the list, 80 people pssshhh at least that many stood up...much more..but it was incredible! I was speechless and could say nothign but praise the Lord for his work.

The next morning was no different.  A woman named Nancy Leigh Demoss got up and spoke on devotions and being faithful in reading the Word and prayer.  Honestly, the message wasn't incredible, but what impacted me and the others was the challenge.  At the end she said, I challenge you, in partner with Mark Jobe's fasting, to commit to 30 days of prayer and dedication to faithful devotions.  This wouldn't have been huge except that, our 40 days of prayer and fasting had exactly 30 days left. Just another way God affirmed what we were doing.

Every Sunday night we met together, and consistently 35 people were there.  It was truly beautiful to watch conservative, more traditional Moody students literally crying out to the Lord, on their knees begging him on behalf of the studnets to rain down on us, revive our hearts, spare the city, heal this land 2 Chron. 7:14.

Things continued to be pushed forward and 80 people came no problem.  There were many studnets even ones we didn't recognize fasting and praying all over campus, committing Joel 2:12-17 to the Lord.

Honestly about 3/4 of the way through, things got tough.  Our progress felt like a rollercoaster.  We had some highs and lows, but we pressed forward even on those days we really didn't feel like fasting and those mornings we really didn't want to get up and pray.  There were even a bunch of students that began to meet every night and pray for revival.  It was so encouraging.  One of the greatest blessings was watching all these random small prayer groups that had been meeting together unbeknownst to us, join in.  A revival prayer student group, then a floor, then a small group, then another group praying for revival, then freshman stu co. We just joined together as one body, our purpose to begin with.

As the last weeks arrived things began to get intense.  Myself and a few others were in charge of planning the final week which was insane.  Friday was a prayer vigil (stu co led this thank the Lord), Sat was service in the city, sunday was the prayer night, monday at midnight right after the prayer meeting, Culby 2 chapel was transformed into a new room, with sections for different prayer topics, for 24 hour prayer for the next four days, then came the worship night on thursday night with Jamie Kay and thursday night praise.  Along with this, I was doing a longer fast and midterms, which just added to the chaotic ness.

In the end, the people that helped were incredible! I was so blessed ot have people really step up and be faithful in doing all they could. The 24 hour prayer was great. I will probably never know if everyone stayed commited to their time slots, but the room looked incredible and really added to the atmosphere of worship in my opinion.

Then the worship night on thursday. Honestly there was so much chaos that went on before.  Rooming issues, miscommunications, lots of planning, and utilizing funds from different groups, it was just unexpected.  What resulted though, was fantastic.  By thursday morning we were still looking for the speakers for each prayer point, but by golly the speakers were amazing.  Each one presented their point beautifully and just said exactly what needed to be said.  Our focus was on 4 things: Repentance, Surrender, Holy Hunger, Faith/Expectancy.  Each one was done differently and there was worship in between.  The spirit was so evident and people were challenged and brought to their knees.  I had no idea how many would come.  We publicized, but it was midterms, and honestly, for all that moody is and does, people can get relaly caught up with the academic part of it.

Other people can tell you all the ways the spirit moved in their hearts that night, but there was one main thing that will stick with me forever.  I had so many comments of people after saying how the Spirit had spoke to them, that it was so encouraging, that it was so effective, but for me, the Spirit spoke to me someway diffferent. Each pereson I talked to knows exactly how.

At the very beginning of our journey, when we cast our vision, it was for 40 days, 80 people joined with us, unified as one body.  We exceeded that, for God's glory, by his grace.  Jamie Kay told us after that she has done many concerts of prayer and when it is Moody alone, we rarely get many to come out, but that night, we had 80 people.  80 people came for this prayer.  It hit me like a semi truck. OF COURSE we would have 80 people come.  Why did I stress that 0 would show (one of my lack of faith things)?  We asked the Lord for 80 and that is what he provided.  What a blessing this was.  To me, this is how the Lord revealed himself in my life.

No, no Spirit go crazy impact the world happened, but let me say this.  Many hearts were revived to the Lord throughout these past weeks.  Many people have been humbled and drawn into God's arms once again. Many people have been brought back to the heart of worship and the rememberance of why we are there at Moody.
Not only this, but those 7+, probably around 15 of us are a family.  I know what the church looks like.  We are the body of Christ, all putting 100% in and willing to sacrifice for one another.  We have different friend groups, different activities, but we would give up anything for each other and had the same fixation on Christ.  We were serving one God, with one task, and in one Spirit.  I think of the tower of babel when the Lord looks at them and says, nothign will be impossible for them when they all come together.  I think of Nehemiah when they rebuild the walls in 52 days. Nothing is impossible for the Lord's people if they come together with a purpose, a strategy, and with the green light from God.  Praise the Lord for that.

I have learned so much and I can't wait for what is next.  So many have come to me and said, Christy, Im in this for the Long Haul.  Where God leads this ministry, I am going with it.
Praise God.
Moody Revival 2010

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Old Writing: Eyes on HIm

Eyes on Him
“Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” Hebrews 12:1-2

This morning I went for a run outside of Port. It had been awhile; a long while. My legs were out of shape, my body not fully prepared, but my heart and mind ready for the task that lie ahead. I knew the goal. Coronado; a 15 minute jog from the school. Not an unreasonable goalm but for one who is out of shape; like myself, an undertaking. On certain days when the sky is clear, the tip of the cathedral in Coronado is able to be seen. On those days, I make the greatest progress. It’s a compelling goal, with my eyes set on the prize. Some days though, like today, something is corrupting my view. One time it will be rain or clouds, other times, like today, it was the sun. During these days the run is arduous. My eyes are focused downward to avoid the sun and I watch the sun so that I won’t fall. The goal is forgotten. Even my thoughts are against me. Inwardly, my mind after just a few minutes, is debating whether my body is up for the task.
As long as we can see our goal in sight, there is no run we can’t achieve. But take away the vision, block the cathedral and the result is as discouraging as the journey. Why continue if there is no relief in sight. We are what we see and if we only see ourselves, we are screwed. Luckily, humans were never meant to be kept from seein the goal. God has every intention to being the clearly seen cathedral in Coronado. He came near to us purposely to be seen. That is why the journey is so different when we have the clear view. Those who see him are never the same. His glory, his majesty, his beauty, gives us the strength to never stop until we reach him. Seeing Jesus is what Christianity is all about and this is why those who see him today are never the same. Its not possible to give up.