Open Doors

 In the past month, it seems that God has been opening some doors for Nathan and I in our music.  I've noticed that usually things like this happens in highs and lows.  A year ago we had a full band singing almost every weekend at various churches.  That dissipated because we felt the need for a church home and to be planted somewhere and thats when we found Bethlehem, became members and have been serving about once a month on the worship team there.  During that time, a whole year, we did not write one single song.  Why?  I have no idea.  We tried, but it just would not come.  Our style is pretty easy and if a song gets hard, we just put it aside.  This may be the "wrong" way to do it, but its our style.  We can usually have a song written in about 30 minutes or less.  Recently we have had the opportunity to help with the worship at Impact Community Church in Rock Hill.  This has been a blessing both financially and musically.  Playing in a different setting with different people stretches you as a musician and singer and we have enjoyed meeting the new people the past few weeks and making new connections as well.  At the same time that we are playing at another church, my heart is still at Bethlehem, our home church, but God has opened a huge door there because Bethlehem is starting a Friday night service in February!  I cannot wait to see how God uses this service to grow our church and reach out to the community!

On another note, I do not think that this is all coincidence.  In the past months, God has put giving on our hearts.  We have tried our best to be obedient to his calling and I truley believe that we are being blessed through our obedience. 

Giving is hard, it takes sacrifice and selflessness.  But it is vital to the Christian to give.  Not what is expected of you, but what is unexpected.  We are so blessed to have what we have and the root of Christianity is selflessness and giving. 

I want to challenge you not only this Christmas season, but every season in this next year, to give.  Pray about what God would have you give.  It doesnt always have to be money.  It could be your time, your tallent, your ear to some who needs you to listen, your prayers, your spare clothes, food... I could go on and on, but my point it, no matter where you are at in life, you can give SOMETHING!  That is the beauty of giving, is that everyone has something to give.  God has equipped you today to give something to someone else!  Thats the reason you have what you have!  So, take inventory today.  See what you've been blessed with.  Pray about what God would have you give.  Then bless someone else with it!  You will be amazed at the peace and blessings that will be poured back on you if you just make a little room!