"You live, you learn, and you live with regret." This was the philosophy of a young man in one of the classes I taught at a local high school this week. He did not want to hear what I was sharing with him about the choices he makes now making a big difference for him later... especially in regards to sexual activity outside the committed relationship of marriage. When he first began his challenge to what I was sharing a few more students jumped on the band wagon and voiced their desire to "live their own lives." I allowed them to talk and express their own opinion and the final words were these... "You live, you learn, and you live with regret." This wasn't the note I think the students wanted to leave the room on... I made sure that the whole class heard what was said.
The next day was the final presentation for the program. That class returned and I was a little apprehensive about what to expect. The questions and challenges are fine... It's just harder for me to think on the spot sometimes. This was a blessing in many ways... now I have had that experience and welcome additional challenges with less anxiety.
The lady I present with and I finished the last day strong... it almost seemed that the challenge form the day before served to make other students think harder about their lives. Afterward we received some very positive responses from the students. I was very thankful.
My reading today took me to 1 John, chapter 4. There is a verse in this chapter that really stuck out to me today... (5) "They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. " I think back to this young man and realize that he was only sharing from his world's viewpoint. Then I think of those who were so easily influenced by his comments. I'm reminded about how powerful our testimonies are. I pray that I as a Christian may be so bold to share my Christian viewpoint. Coming from just within myself I can change nothing... but God is capable of using my weakness to bring Himself glory.

It's been a few days since I last wrote anything... The days have been good. I enjoyed a couple days off last Friday and Saturday (well, for the most part). The family and I did some things together... a little home improvement work. Saturday afternoon I had the opportunity to play golf with friends (only lost a half dozen balls). Sunday was a good day of worship for me. All in all I'd say the past few days have been "all right!" I did have my moments of frustration during this time as well. I failed to do some things just right... usually involving my responses to the little stuff of life. But God continues to work with me. I really hate it when selfishness (my selfishness) gets in my way. God's Spirit continues to point these out in my life when they happen... One of these days I'm going to have victory. You might be wondering what I'm talking about... it's that same old stuff that keeps resurfacing in my life. I'm not the father and husband I want to be...yet! My family is so important to me and I desire to love them best of all. With God's help I'll do it.
Today I taught all day at a local high school... that same program that I've been involved with. The students responded well to the message we presented. I'll be doing the day 2 teaching tomorrow, and day 3 on Wednesday. I've been blessed with how positive the teachers have responded to what we are teaching... their encouragement feels good.
My reading today took me to the book of Ephesians, chapter 4. Verse 1 states, "...I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received." This word worthy as used here is very important to me in my life right now. It has to do with balance... more literally it carries with it the idea of weighing the same. It is important that I discover the right balance in my life in order to be the most effective I can to the calling God has on my life. Balance... this carries tremendous implication to my life. My desire to be the best husband and father to my family will require balance.
Oh Lord, please help me to strike the right balance in my life... with You being my equalizer. Lord, Jesus, I know that as I surrender my life to You, You will help me gain the right balance to "be" all that is required of me."