When believers are in unity . . .

Psalm 133::1 How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. 3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.

I got to spend this past weekend with 45 people in cold and damp conditions. 35 of these people were students in middle or high school. Imagine how noisy, messy and how much attitude 35 students can make in close quarters. You would expect at some point a meltdown from a student or from an adult leader. But it never took place. There was harmony and one set: find God.

We learned 4 things: un-connect, cleanse, commit, called.

1. un-connect

To find God one needs to un-connect from the earthly things that hinder us and get away from those things to hear God's voice. This means putting away your cell phone, your computer and turning off the TV. There comes a time when we need to un-connect to the world and seek God only. This can be done while driving, (turn the radio off and listen). This can done by finding a peaceful place away from your daily routine.

2. Cleanse

Once you've gotten away from the hustle and flow of life, ask God to search and try you. Rid yourself of any "junk" leftover in your mind or heart. Detox yourself for a little while (1 John 1:9) and most importantly, ask God to remove any "clutter" so that you may be fresh to hear him speak to you.

3. Commit

Commitment to follow God takes a servant's heart. Be open to whatever he says. If you go into this half-heartily, steps 1 or 2 need to be repeated. Be true to God in what you say. If he tells you to do something, DO IT OUT OF GRATITUDE AND THANKFULNESS!!!

4. Called

This goes with #3. When we come to God with an open heart He will use you. When you discover what gifts God has presented you with, listen to His small voice and serve. WE ALL HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE IN GOD'S KINGDOM.

This is so simple. Detach from the world, cleanse your heart, commit to His voice, follow Him and help change the world.

Daddy, thank you for the attentiveness the students and leaders showed this past weekend. Thank you for the simple messages we heard. Why do we make Christianity so hard? It's really about receiving your love and sharing it with others.

Your son,

Jody