Nothing is Unclean Unless...(Walk in Love)

Well, the next section of Romans (14:13-23) is a little hard for me right now. It seems like it makes everything okay, as long as you think it is. I can't figure out if it's talk only about food or if it's talking about other things too. I'm going to have to break it down a little.

Paul says in verse 14 that he is "persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean." This is where I get confused. In context I assume he is talking about food or drink, but it's been translated in my Bible as "nothing is unclean". The next verse goes back to causing a brother to stumble because of something you eat. If you do "grieve" a brother by something you eat, you are not walking in love. And I'm learning more and more that love is really, REALLY important for a Christian. It's the root of our salvation. It is the the example Christ's life on earth left us. It is what we were given in abundance from God, so undeserved, by the death of Jesus.

Okay, so there are the first few verses. More next time. I wish I could just stay home and write. Work is lame.

Christmas 2010 is Here

Christmas is this week and I haven't been updating my blog with Christmas music. Booo!!! So here is a great new song from Pomplamoose. Yes, I love them. They are so talented. I'm jealous. Merry Christmas

Pepsi and Mountain Dew Throwback Return

They are not due out until December 28, 2009, but Tech-Guy-Ted found Pepsi and Mountain Dew Throwback at the Safeway in Lincoln, CA. I am so excited. We bought all the Pepsi Throwback and two 12-packs each of the Mountain Dew Throwback. I'm so pumped they're back.

Every Knee Shall Bow to Me, says the Lord (God is the Judge, not Us)

Christians have many different opinions on different topics such as what you can eat or drink, whether certain days of the week are more important or "holy" than others, or what music styles are good and bad. But Romans 14:1-12 tells us not to judge one another regarding our levels of faith. If one doesn't eat or drink certain things because he doesn't think it is spiritually okay, another who has stronger faith should not pass judgment or argue with the one who has weaker faith. We will all be judged by our holy God. And if we are all living for God and not ourselves, our level of faith is not going to be a factor in our salvation. We will all glorify God.

This is again rushed because my son woke up and I didn't get to finish my thought before work. Christ died for all and is Lord over all things. We will all face judgment from the Holy God for what we do and don't do. For now, all who believe need to uplift each other and encourage each other to live lives that are glorifying to God. Whether at work, home, church or play, we must all live to by the faith God has given us, and strive to bring glory to Him.

Praise God for His Faithfulness to us.

Reed's Inc. A Healthy (and Delicious) Soda Company

See my first post about Reed's here.

Reed's Ginger Brew, Virgil's Root Beer, and China Soda are the 3 main lines of premium soda's from a not so little soda company called Reed's Inc. Reed's sells these brewed sodas in health food stores, like Whole Foods, and in the big chains that carry healthier or premium sodas. I discovered Reed's after enjoying a Virgil's Root Beer. I enjoyed it so much that I looked further into the beverage's maker and discovered other gourmet beverages. I decided to purchase a few for consumption and review, and I discovered a new world of soda drinking. All be it a more expensive indulgence for me, these sodas have created a more refined and sophisticated palette. I now drink sodas with the goal of naming ingredients used in making the beverage. Things like vanilla, clove, honey, lemon, cherry, apple, licorice, and other spices and natural ingredients are noticeable in the Reed's sodas. Their original line is their ginger brews. Called brews because they are actually brewed like beer, these Jamaican style sodas are delicious and boast of health benefits. They are made with real ginger and other natural ingredients. From their own site, here are the ingredients: Reed’s Original Ginger Brew was our first creation, and is a Jamaican recipe for homemade ginger ale using 17 grams of fresh ginger root, lemon, lime, honey, fructose, pineapple, herbs and spices. Reed’s Extra Ginger Brew is the same recipe, but has 25 grams of fresh ginger root for a stronger bite. Reed’s Premium Ginger Brew is the wholesome ingredients version of Reed’s Original Ginger Brew, sweetened only with honey and pineapple juice. Reeds Raspberry Ginger Brew is brewed from 17 grams of fresh ginger root, raspberry juice, and lime. It is 20% raspberry juice and sweetened with fruit juice and fructose. Reed’s Spiced Apple Brew uses 8 grams of fresh ginger root, the finest tart German apple juice, and such apple pie spices as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Spiced Apple Brew is 50% apple juice and sweetened with fruit juice and fructose. Reed’s Cherry Ginger Brew Our newest addition to the Ginger Brew Family. Freshly brewed from: sparkling filtered water, fructose,22 grams of fresh ginger root, cherry juice from concentrate, and spices. I had the first 3 Ginger Brews, enjoying the Premium the most. It was a little more refreshing then the original, possibly because of the honey and pineapple juice used to sweeten it. The flavor reminded me of my mom's hot honey and lemon water we drank whenever we had a sore throat. But this is served cold and is so refreshing. I'm not sure about all the claims of health benefits, but I did drink one while suffering a headache and I noticed the pain was reduced a few minutes after drinking a Premium Ginger Brew. Now, the Virgil's line has a Root Beer, Cream Soda, Cola, Black Cherry Cream, and an Orange Cream. I've had all but the Orange Cream and I have to admit, the Root Beer is some of the best root beer around, the Cola has a very nice vanilla hint, and the Black Cherry Cream is the best cherry soda in the history of cherry sodas (that I've drank). All these Virgil's sodas have a hint of vanilla that makes the soda such a smooth drinker. The Black Cherry reminds me of black cherry ice cream from when I was a kid. The nice vanilla bean adds a smoothness that, combined with the cherry and real cane sugar, makes this my new favorite cherry drink (if not my favorite drink period). And hey Coca-Cola fans, there's a cola for you too. China Cola from Reed's reminds me of Coca-Cola. Most people know that I have a thing against Coke, since I'm a HUGE Pepsi fan. But, the difference here is this stuff is better, and better for you. China Cola is made with all natural ingredients like Reed's other sodas and was formulated by a Chinese master herbalist, according to Reed's website. It is also the top selling cola in natural foods. This makes since because it's the healthy choice for Coca-Cola lovers. For me, I'll stick to the Virgil's line for cola, root beer, and cherry. Over all, I am so impressed with the goal of the company's CEO and founder Mr. Christopher J. Reed. Founded in 1987 and incorporated in 1991, Reed's Inc. is making great, health, delicious products. They have continued goals and plans for the future, one which includes marketing the health benefits to ginger. They are even planning a line of Reed's Ginger Brews with the R(x) like a pharmisist uses for the "R" in Reed's. I'll be watching for the new line in health food and natural food stores in my area. Good luck Mr. Reed. I love your beverages.

The Christian Walk is a Battle

I'll start chapter 14 next time, but I want to say a few words about this thing we call the "Christian walk." The older I get, the more "real world" experiences I have, and the more responsibilities that are on my shoulders all point me to the fact that there are a lot of things in our lives that pull us away from God. And they pull with a lot of force. To combat this force we need to be in constant communication with God through prayer, studying of His word, and even involvement with other Christians. "Christian walk" makes it sound too much like a leisurely stroll through the park. It's more of our daily battle. We must constantly fight to avoid sin. Although salvation does not come from good works, we believers must live to glorify God. We have a responsibility to live lives that are good and holy and honest. We are to put off the old self and put on the new self. We are to live as though we are the temple of God. God dwells in us who are believers and we must live as though that is true in our own lives.

Praise God by Glorifying Him Today.

30 Rock's HD Camera Gag...So Funny

I haven't laughed so hard in a long time; this hi-def camera gag on 30 Rock almost made me pee my pants. I cried laughing. And now that I've built it up too much, enjoy. I love the fact that Alec is younger and more handsome. This show is so great.

God Answers Prayers

Without going into a lot of detail that I don't really want public, God answered a prayer today. There is a lot of human stress in my life right now, to the point where I'm wondering what day the heart attack is going to come, and I've been weak in my prayer time about it. I finally cried out to God yesterday about one part of it and today I found out He answered that prayer. Now, I do believe God hears and answers every prayer, but sometimes it's not the answer we want so it doesn't feel like God is listening or answering. Faith is often a difficult thing.

The amount of stress I feel lifted today is huge. I wish I could feel like this more often. I wish my faith was stronger. And as I type that I get scared that God is going to continue more trials and more stressful things to see test me in that. Although He does not tempted us to sin, He does test us. To be clear on this I will quote James 1:12-13, which says, "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempts no one."

God is Good. Praise God for His Steadfast Love.

The Time Is Now, Live in the Light

Well, Breakfast was canceled because of the weather. I guess Auburn is white and covered in ice. I'm a little disappointed, except I didn't have to wake up at 5:20am.

I had a day of extreme frustration yesterday. I feel like I'm going to give myself a heart attack. So many frustrating and annoying things go on at my work. There is extreme micromanaging from the upper management, so much so that I spend a great deal of my time wasting time with checklists, scheduling programs, and other things that don't earn us business. Beyond that, there are so many things the company could be doing to save time and money, but I don't have a way to suggest it or implement it. (Hold on, the cutest kid in the world just woke up and I have to say good morning).

Caleb is potty training so I had to take him to the bathroom. These are not fun times, but he's doing well. Dry diaper.

Romans 13:11-14 is the wake up passage of the day. "The hour has come for you to wake from sleep." We need to cast off works of darkness and put on the armor of light. This means we need to stay away from the things that lead us into sin. Verse 13 says, "Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy." Although we don't all deal with everything on this list, here in the USA we know that sexual freedoms in society make it okay for people to allow there passions and desires rule. Sex is the center of a lot of our nations problems. There is now no reason to even get married, because people just have sex with any one at anytime.

We Christians need to be a light in this dark world. It is time now for us to be a shining spot in the darkness. Take pride in restraining from sexual immorality. Even things like jokes and inappropriate comments should be refrained from, as these things are only a sign of acceptance of this behavior.

Times up, dang it.

Praise God today. Praise God for Salvation.

The World is Vying For Our Attention, Pay Attention to God

Well, it's been some time since I last updated and that's not good. I've been using my kids as an excuse in my head; we've been experiencing sleeping problems. But yesterday at church, my pastor said something about filling our heads with the things of God instead of the things of the world. He said the world in vying for our attention and we need to force ourselves to focus on God. What better way to do that then to read God's word?

And the passage I read today is a perfect reminder of NOW being the time to focus on God. But I did get up too late to write. See you Wednesday (Tuesday is my breakfast with the guys day). Keep your fingers crossed.

Steven Seagal Lawman

It starts tonight people. Steven Seagal Lawman on A&E at 11:00.

Sent from my iPhone

Downsizing Sale Part 2

Need a Pool Table set with extras?

Downsizing Sale Part 1

Looking for a piano? Buy mine.

The Star Trek A-Team

Thanks to the Facebook of Veronica Belmont, a female geek that all the geeks are in love with because she knows about what geeks know about and she's fairly attractive, I have a video mash-up of two things I find entertaining; Star Trek and the A-Team. Enjoy the video.

Happy Thanksgiving

Remember back to a simpler time, a happier time, a goofier time....back when Adam Sandler was funny and Kevin Nealon was sort of funny. Then be thankful for something like the Internet, that can bring back these memories of good times.

R8 vs ZR1

Watch it while it's still up. Clarkson is so fun to watch. And the Stig is a great driver.

Ladder Fail

Fail Blog is great. This is an infomercial fail...painful to the chin.

Reed's Inc. A Healthy Soda Company

BevReview.com may allow me to write a review for their site. In preparing for this review, I looked at the company that makes Vigil's Root Beer and China Soda, two of the sodas I am planning to review here. Reed's, Inc. is the maker of both these sodas and another beverage called Reed's Ginger Brew. The Ginger Brew is Reed's signature soda. It's a ginger ale made with real ginger and other all natural ingredients they brew (similar to beer) into this healthier ale. Reed's claims to be the "Coke" of health food stores, being the largest nature/premium soda seller. Their similarity to Coca-Cola ends there. Their Ginger Brew is made one brewed batch at a time and they use no chemicals in making their products. With real ginger root, Reed's boast of health benefits from drinking their brews. Ginger has been tied to digestive health and can be used as a motion sickness aid. The first time I went on an ocean cruise I took ginger tablets to help with motion sickness. There were no bad side effects from the ginger. If I had taken medicine, I may have suffered from drowsiness. Virgil's Root Beer was purchased by Reed's, Inc in 2000. Virgil's followed the same philosophy of soda making as Reed's, being made with all natural ingredients, being brewed like old fashioned sodas (claiming to be the only brewed Root Beer), and boasting of health benefits. China Soda is heralded as the #1 selling cola in health food stores. Just as Virgil's Root Beer and Reed's Ginger Brew offer a natural and healthy choice in soda consumption, China Soda takes the classic cola taste and adds Chinese herbal knowledge and ingredients to make this cola a natural way to balance the body's "imbalances" commonly found today. It naturally increases the energy level of its consumer. Here is a video from the History Channel's Modern Marvels. I love this show, and I wish I had this full episode. Enjoy.

The CHP Attempt to Entrap at Sac Auto Show

Here is my favorite part of the 2009 Sacramento Auto Show: The CHP booth had the above pill box as a give-a-way. I immediately asked the officer working the booth if this could be considered entrapment. She said something about Aleve. So I asked her about prescrition meds. She ignored my comments. She didn't even respond after that. See, in California there is a law, 4060 B&P, stating it is illegal to possess prescription medications without a prescription. The meds should stay in the prescription bottle, which shows the person they are prescribed to, the prescriber, and the correct dosage information. If prescription meds are found in one of these "daily pill organizers" and there is no sign of a prescription bottle anywhere, law enforcement can use that as evidence of no prescription, and they may arrest the person holding this sort of pill container, sighting 4060 B&P.

Tricky CHiPs.

All Commandments Can Be Summed Up By Love

"...for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law." I thought I'd be able to review Romans 13:8-10 and have a lot to say, but the simple truth of that first quote sums it up so nicely. If we love others, we fulfill the law. You don't go lie, cheat, steal, hurt, or kill someone you love. If you love others, you fulfill the commandments. If you love others, you will stop sinning. Love, love, love.

And then there is the reality of my own life. There is barely love for the ones I claim to love. I am so unloving. I often have to question my own salvation because I am not a person who loves others. Sometimes I tell myself I am, because I'll feel bad for someone in need or pain, but that's not the love that counts here. This love is contrasted against the commandments against adultery, murder, stealing, and coveting. We need to love in the hard situations. We need to love the unlovable.

Praise God for His Love.

2009 Sac Auto Show Last Live Blog

The new Taurus has a massive trunk. The Can-Am 3-wheeler was neat but
started at $16k. And the new Nissan Altima is really just the same
Altima with a nose job.

2009 Sac Auto Show Continued Again

Test drove the new Ford Taurus SHO and the Fiesta. The Fiesta was
actually the drive of the show. So much fun. The Dodge Callenger
dressed up as a cop car. And the new Toyota 4Runner is pretty sweet too.

Sac Auto Show Continues

We both drove the V8 Camaro. We both signed up to test drive a Ford
Taurus and get a $50 gift card. We both got free t-shirts from Ford.
And now we are going to drive some Fords.

2009 Sac Auto Show

Ted and I are enjoying the Sac Auto Show. Are are our first pictures.
Ted is about to drive this yellow V8 Camaro.

Beverage Reviews Ahead

China Cola, Oogavé Watermelon Cream and Rootbeer, and Jones Root Beer and Orange and Cream.

I can't wait to try them all. I should ask the guy at bevreview.com for a job.

When Baked Cops Call 911

This is an old clip but Fail Blog had it as their "Friday Rewind" clip, so enjoy. Note the time of my post. 4:20, sweeeeet Dude!

Want to Drive Your Car with Your iPhone? There's an App for That

Nerds can do anything.

Submit To The Authorities

Romans 13:1-7 is a little confusing, especially after last nights Facebook discussion about whether or not Obama is "an idiot" or not. Although those weren't my words for him, I think we are headed toward socialism with Obama. But before I go any further, back to the passage at hand. "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God..."

God places whomever He wants into the positions of authority. This is a little confusing for me because of bad people like Saddam Hussein. But I think the United States took care of him. I think there are bad people who become rulers but God has placed those people in those roles for a reason. I think we can look at the USA as a leader in the world and we took care of one that was not doing "good." We, as citizens, are called to do good and we will "receive approval" from the authority.

But this is still a confusing passage, because of people like Saddam and others. Then I read verse 7. "Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes...revenue...respect...honor..." When I saw the word respect in there, I instantly thought of the person at my last job who was the main instrument in my release. He was an arrogant, foolish man, in my opinion, but until this moment, I didn't realize my complete disrespect for him. He did get himself to the position of authority he was in, where God placed him in my life. I think all would have been right with me if I had respected his authority. I thought I'd be "butt kissing" but really it was my own arrogance that stopped me from listening to his opinion and learning from it.

We each have a place in this world and a role to fulfill. DON'T think yours is something grand and important. It may be the position of the butt kisser, the respectful obedient follower. Follow the law, respect and honor those who should be, be a good citizen.

Praise God the Ultimate Authority.

Apple's Facebook Shows iPhone Fault

So Apple's own iTunes Facebook page shows that Apple NEEDS Flash on the iPhone. Whatever Adobe's and Apple's beef is about, Apple needs to get over. The iPhone is so limited because of its lack if Flash. I can't believe they haven't been sued over the claim that the full Internet is on the phone. Too many sites use Flash to say the full Internet is on this phone. It's better than the rest, but it still has a long way to go to be able to offer the full Internet. Step 1: ADD FLASH!!

Call 911 If You DUI

Don't drink and drive. But if you do, call 911 to report your DUI. Mary did.

Bless Those Who Persecute You

This section of Romans 12 from verse 9-21 has been all about the "marks of the true Christian", as titled in my Bible. Today I'm going to continue with verse 14-21 to finish this section and chapter 12. For me, I have to completely do a 180.

First in verse 14 it says, "Bless those who persecute you...do NOT curse them." So hard. When someone wrongs me, I feel so angry. I have to get them back so I don't look like a fool. But this is the wrong direction according to God's Word. Verse 19 needs to ring out in this time. "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord." If some sort of vengeance is deserved and God decides to exact His vengeance, how much greater will the vengeance of God be than that of me, a mere humans? But we are called to not only resist our desire for revenge, we are called to bless and care for our enemies. Verse 16 says, "Live in harmony with one another..." Verse 17 says, "Repay NO one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all." Verse 19 says, "...never avenge yourselves."

We are to do the opposite of what we think is just. Verse 20 tell us to feed our enemies if they are hungry, give them a drink if they are thirsty. We are not to be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. So hard. So hard. But it is possible, because God's Word tells us to do it. We must be in constant prayer over this. We must rely on the strength that comes from God alone. Remember your sins have been forgiven. Remember the wrongs we have done against the almighty God, who is perfect and good. We wronged a loving God who should not be our enemy. He is the enemy of sin and the Savior of souls.

Praise God for His Grace and Mercy.

COME ON YOU FAILURE!

Romans 12:10-13. First the easier stuff. Verse 13b seek to show hospitality. DONE!

Now the rest. We need to be serving the Lord with a fervent spirit and with zeal. We need to be rejoicing in the hope we have as the children of God. We need to be PATIENT in tribulation. And we need to be in constant prayer. FAIL!

All these things work together too. And all these fails are why I feel like I'm in a deeper pit of failure than before. If I rejoice in the grace that God has given me, and in the hope of heaven and eternity with Him, and if I am in constant prayer to my Creator and Savior, all the struggles of daily life will fade, patience will be provided in tribulation. I believe my struggles would not be so frustrating and difficult if I was leaning on God and trusting Him in the first place. I think He is faithful to me and is constantly trying to draw me back to Himself. Oh what a fool I am.

Praise God for His Faithfulness.
Praise God for the Hope we have in Him.

Salt

This doesn't even come out until summer 2010, but "Salt" looks really good.

'Salt' Teaser Trailer @ Yahoo! Video

A Breakfast Break

On Tuesdays I've been meeting with Stuart and Jordan for breakfast and a time to encourage each other. And it is an encouraging time for me. We pray for each other and give each other advice from God's Word. We also have studied things together in the past, like the book "Crazy Love."

I'm a little late today, but I wanted to enter something. My advice today is to always have a group of people you can meet with on a regular basis as an accountability team. Find people that are spiritually mature and know the Bible. Oh, and they need to be the same gender.

Praise God in Patience today.

Let Your Love be Genuine

Romans is a hard book for a struggling Christian. It's a deep book of truths about God and salvation and how we are to live as Christians. Romans 12:9-21 are all about "Marks of the True Christian", as my Bible titles it. And it is stuff that is not easy to hear.

Verse 9 and 10 are all I'm going to cover today. "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Why do I always fail? I don't love. In fact, people "joke" about my lack of love of others. I'm know as someone who hates things, is annoyed by people, and generally is negative most of the time. I'm not loving. This is so hard for me. I think I can read other people's genuine attitudes in a giving situation; and when others are not genuine or honest with me or a particular event, I get angry and frustrated with them. Or if someone is not paying enough attention to what's going on, when something serious happens and they are shocked, I'm annoyed they weren't prepared. I feel like people are usually not lovable.

BUT, God loves people. "For God so loved the world, He gave his only son..." John 3:16. Even the guy at the baseball game in the outfield, or the one in the end zone at the football game, is trying to tell people that the God of the universe loves people. And now we are called to love people too, right here in Romans.

Let me take this in a different direction. I love music. I love playing the piano and singing. I loved leading worship and First Baptist in Auburn. I loved everything about it. I would say, the job of a music pastor at a church would be my dream job. Except a huge part of being a pastor is loving people. And that love spreads to so many other aspects of the job. Just getting up on the stage and leading people in music worship is not the extent of the job. It takes genuine love.

Praise God Today by Loving Others.

Getting Ready To Make the Switch

Apple and the iPhone are starting to be so frustrating. Apple is too exclusive and arrogant about what they will and won't allow on the iPhone. It's too locked down. The Google Android phone is open source, is on multiple phones, and has free stuff; free stuff like a Navigation Program. The Android phone also has the stuff we want from Google, that Apple keeps blocking. Voice recognition, location software, navigation, Google docs, and more. There are apps and more too. I don't know enough yet about the phone, which is why the title is "Getting Ready to Make the Switch" not "Making the Switch", but with Apple doing things the way they are, and the way they always do, I'm being pushed to boycott. (Other Apple-ism, the new iMac and it's 2 different functioning mini DVI ports on the 2 models. The 27" allows input, while the 21.5" doesn't. And the glossy finish on the screens is not great. Even in Apple's own stores, the glossy finish makes it hard to see the screen. Where's the mat option? How about the iPod Touch? You have to pay $10 every time they update the software. Stupid.) I will admit the iPhone is the greatest phone ever, but there are a lot of things that could be done better. Maybe someone will create the hardware to match the great work Google has done on the software of Android. It will be hard to match or beat the beauty of the iPhone. I was hopeful Motorola would do it with the "Droid", but first pictures aren't looking good. Someone needs to build a phone with a high quality, high resolution screen, and other quality materials and design.

People Without Skills Shouldn't Own Cars with HP

This guy is the anti-Ken Block. People without driving skills shouldn't be allowed to own cars with horsepower. This guy looks like a jerk.

I May Have a Man Crush on Ken Block

I can't get enough of Ken Block's driving skills. He is amazing.

Own Your Spiritual Gift

So gifts are an interesting topic, since a lot of people confuse talents with gifts. I play piano a little; is that a gift? No. There are other places in the Bible that talk about gifts but Romans 12:6-8 list some that Paul wants us to realize are gifts that are to be used for the body of believers. Again, the body is made up of different parts with different purposes. And so are we as Christians all part of one body in Christ. We all have different gifts to serve the body according to God's grace.

"if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness."

Each gift has instructions that follow. Basically we need to own our gift, using it fully to the extent that God has designed. Figure out what your gift is and use it. I think service is a huge one where many of us can find ways to be involved. I often wish I was rich so I could be the "one who contributes." But there are other things besides money that can be given with generosity. We need to look at this list and work out what we can do to fulfill our duty as part of the body.

Praise God for the Gifts He's Given Us.

We Are Memebers of One Body

Is a foot as important as an eye? Or is the hand more important than the ear? What part are you in the body of Christ? Are you super important? Do you often think of yourself as such? Too often, I think we do. I willing to bet most of us are toe nails, but ingrown toe nails. Sure we have a purpose, but too often we are hurting the body of Christ more than benefiting and protecting it.

It is so hard to be a Christian. I think a lot of us play the part on Sunday, but in our daily living among the world and non-Christians we are no different. And if you don't agree, PLEASE write comments on how you have success in this. I need help. I know the biblical answers is to listen to the Holy Spirit and to study God's word, but I'm crying out to God for help on a consistent basis and I feel like I fail every day. I am too often that ingrown toenail to the Christian body.

Romans 12:3-5 tells us not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought to. We are all members of one body with different functions. Each of us needs to preform our functions to the best of our abilities. I know I'm not. Tomorrow I will write about some of the different gifts listed in verses 6-8.

Praise God for His Patience.
Praise God for His Faithfulness.

MS Windows 7 Launched on Today Show...with a big Oops!

So, Microsoft introduced Windows 7 on NBC's Today show a few days ago. Two funny things: First, the graphic of the Windows 7 logo in the background is overlaid on an Apple MacBook Pro. Second, Matt Lauer (a moron in his own right) talked about how Apple seems to be considered the "cool" company. Great launch info Matt. I can only imagine what Steve Ballmer, Microsoft's CEO, was thinking as Matt was saying that. At the end Matt added, "By the way, we should mention Microsoft is part owner in MSNBC...important to get that out." So is he saying they are biased by Microsoft? Why is that important to get out? Again, Matt is a moron, just like the graphics guy for the Today Show. Found on CrunchGear. UDPATE: I just found these too: The Japan Launch? Windows 98 Launch? "Hey Bill." An Explanation:

More Tomorrow

Today, I read too late to spend quality time writing my explanation of the next section. Romans 12:4-8 talks about the fact that the church is like a body with all the members making up the different parts of the body. It also talks about the gifts that we have as members. We all need to be using these gifts.

More tomorrow.

Praise God for another day to service and glorify Him.

Girls Are Evil. Here's Proof.

I originally posted this a long time ago, but my blog was not mature enough to leave it up. Here we go: Girls are evil. This is proof, mathematical proof. And math transcends language, culture, and even species. It's Science.

Esteban's Rootbeer by Oogavé

Trademarked "The original agave soda", Oogavé Sodas out of Denver, CO says, "Oogavé may increase your desire to stop drinking other beverages". I must admit, my first drink (at my cousin's house last weekend) was amazing. It caused me to head to Whole Foods and buy myself some more. It's great stuff. At only 102 calories in a 12 ounce glass bottle, this smooth drinking root beer is a hit in my book. Natural, organic, and delicious. I used to make fun of the organic stuff, calling it the foods for hairy women and hippies, and other un-showered folks. But as I get older and fatter, I am beginning to look for healthier options. My love for sodas has caused me to seek out alternatives to the stuff made with High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS). HFCS has been linked to weight gain and poor digestion, as I've talked about in past posts. This agave nectar sweetened root beer gives me an option with only 2/3 the calories of the other guys and a natural sweetening ingredient that is easier for my body to digest. Made with organic agave nectar instead of cane sugar or HFCS (the evil sweetner), or the artificial sweeteners like aspartame or saccharin, Oogavé's root beer doesn't leave any diet aftertaste either. In fact, I wouldn't know it as a healthier option from the taste. It is a great root beer. So go check it out. I enjoyed mine today with homemade nachos.

Lucky Guy

The New iMac

The new 21.5" and 27" iMacs are pretty amazing.

Don't Think More Highly of Yourself Than You Ought

I wake up all the time in the middle of the night. I think I have sleep apnea. I also think it affects my mood and causes mood swings, anger, frustration, and other issues. It sucks. I'm trying to realize that and pray about it because it's causing issues in other areas of my life. Work, marriage, interactions with other people; they are all suffering because of this.

Sometimes I think about if we are still in the garden, sinless, and in the presence of God, walking with Him, talking with Him, enjoying His creation, would there be little issues like sleeping problems. Because sin is the root of all things bad, would I be going through this if there wasn't sin? Well, that's not even what Romans 12:3 is about but that's all I'm going to write on today, as the next set of verses talk about Spiritual gifts. That's a big section.

Romans12:3 tells us not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought. Paul says, "For by the grace given to me..." He points out the fact that he was given grace from God and it's according to that grace the he preaches and teaches God's word with the authority he does. We must likewise think about ourselves with sober judgment basing it on the "measure of faith that God has assigned." Our importance is not to be thought of too highly because it is assigned by God. God is the one who deserve any glory.

So far I don't think I've done much to explain this verse, so let me write an example from my own life. I used to help with youth ministry and music at FBC Auburn. I began to think of my "service" as a really "spiritual" thing. And, although I did help some people, my focus was often on self glorification and being able to say I served God. I thought of myself as better than others who were not serving at all. The realization of this hit me recently, when I recognized that I don't serve now. I didn't always think of myself as better than others, there were times I had the proper attitude. And I desperately miss music ministry, but there's a fine line between arrogance and a proper attitude of service. Each person has their own way to serve too...but that's for next time.

Praise God for The Faith He's Given me.

Don't Be Conformed, Be Transformed

Romans 12:1-2 are pretty well known verses. They are verses that tell us something we should be doing; therefore, as humans we feel like it's something we can be doing to earn our salvation. But Paul is writing this just after 3 chapters about election. We must realize that these are not actions that we do to gain or earn our salvation. These are the things we should be doing because we were chosen, because we are so grateful to God that He saved us. "...by the mercies of God...present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, WHICH IS YOUR SPIRITUAL WORSHIP." This is how we worship the one who saved us.

Verse to goes on to tell us not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewal of our mind. "BY TESTING" we may discern what is the will of God. I think that may mean we are going to be tested by God, but also, we must look at the things in our lives on a continual basis and test them against God's word to see if they are in line with God's will. These things that are good, acceptable, and perfect. Although we can never be perfect in our sinful bodies, we can seek the things in our lives that are good, acceptable, and perfect and pursue them. Again, we must realize we are made to worship God. We are made to bring Him glory, praise, and honor.

Praise God Forever.
Praise God Forever.
Praise God Forever.

Oh How Deep Are the Riches of God

First, Stuart Fraser preached on Romans chapter 9 and God's sovereignty. It was so great to hear him this past Sunday. The previous Sunday and this past one, Stuart preached Romans chapter 9 to a church that does have some people who are very passionate about the topic of election, arguing man's part in salvation. Stuart and I both read this passage to say God saves us through election. Nothing we can do can gain us salvation. Listen to Stuart here then here, to hear the sermon series.

Now, moving on with Romans 11:25-36. Paul continues to point out Israel's part in God's plan. He talks about the "partial hardening" of Israel which allows for Gentile's to become part of God's family. Israel is considered an enemy of the gospel, for the sake of the gentiles. But as for election, God chose the Jews as His people. Therefore they will be saved because of their forefathers. To both Jews and Gentiles, God's calling is irrevocable. His mercy saves us DESPITE our disobedience.

Verses 33-36 are such a powerful passage about God. They are also a great song.

Oh how deep are the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and how inscrutable His ways! "For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor?" "Or who has given a gift to Him that he might be repaid?" For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen.

Hansen's Beverage Company Sucks

Calling all Monster Energy Drink drinkers: STOP drinking it. Calling all Hansen's Beverage Company patrons: STOP buying their products. Don't buy anything from the Hansen's Beverage Company. They are going crazy with the lawyers, trying to scare a beverage review website into taking down a review and trying to tell a Vermont beer brewer to change the name of a beer. Monster Energy Drink vs. Vermonster. Oh yeah, I can see the confusion consumers are going to have. NOT! Beer is sold in a different location within the store to a different person wanting something different from their beverage. I'm calling for a boycott, not because it directly affects me, but after seeing their attack on my favorite beverage review site, bevreview.com, I came across the second story about the brewer. It makes nme mad that a large corporation would go after a small brewer for something that is totally not a trademark infringement. And like the brewer says in the following video, it's just a huge expense, Hansens can afford and the Rock Art Brewery can't. Here's the brewer's story. Read bevreview.com's story on their own site here or here at the Consumerist. Read the brewer's story here and visit their website.

Dublin Dr. Pepper

So I heard about a Dr. Pepper made with real can sugar. The problem was, it is made in Texas and it super expensive to have shipped here (I looked into it). You can check out the site and history at http://dublindrpepper.com/. Then, Tech-Guy-Ted told me about a place in Auburn, CA that sells this Dr. Pepper. I called the place, called Joe Caribé, and they had them. Although expensive, I was able to get a few bottles and taste this sugar cane version. It was so good. This version reminded me of the old days, when Dr. Pepper was my favorite soda. Even the "Nectar of Life", Mountain Dew, was below Dr. Pepper back then. ANYWAY, Dr. Pepper needs to sell a sugar based version nationwide. Pepsi and Mountain Dew did it, and are doing it again, with their Throwback versions. It's time for a Dr. Pepper Throwback.

We Were Grafted In

Romans 11:13-24 is a difficult passage of imagery. Paul uses the picture of an olive tree with branches broken off and different branches grafted in. The original branches represent the Jews who rejected Christ. The grafted branches represent Gentiles added to the family of God because of their belief in Christ as their Savior.

I have to work on this later, since I have to go get ready for work.

Salvation To All To Make the Jews Jealous

My friend Stuart and I were talking while having breakfast yesterday. I found out he is preaching through Romans at his church, and we talked about grace, God's calling, and some other serious topics like hyper-Calvinism. We also talked about the fact that too often, many people "write off" the Jewish people because salvation has been revealed to gentiles too. Because of the Jew's reject of Christ, now gentiles have access to Christ. Romans 11:11-12 tells us that Gentiles are included in God's plan for salvation to make the Jews jealous. That is really great for us who are not Jews, but more importantly, it points to the fact that God still loves His chosen people.

Praise God for Salvation.

Saab 9-5? Looks Like a Rebadged Audi A6

So the new Saab 9-5 looks like an Audi A6. And the A6 has had a similar look for over 10 years. Here's a 1999 Audi A6. And here's the beautiful 2009 Audi A6. Hey Saab, try harder. I mean, I'm sure Audi is flattered that you want to be like them, but come up with your own look.

Pomplamoose and VideoSong

I'm obsessed. These two are so talented. Pomplamoose is their name, and they make something called a "VideoSong." In their words, "A VideoSong is a new Medium with two rules: 1. What you see is what you hear (no lip-syncing for instruments or voice). 2. If you hear it, at some point you see it (no hidden sounds)." Beat the Horse by Pomplamoose is an example. I think my first taste of something like this was a video editing guy I posted about a long time ago, here. The difference is these two are actual musicians, they record the tracks and then layer them. I think I thought they were doing a similar thing at first, but I realized Lasse in the video from 2007 was editing sounds together, and these two are editing layers or tracks together. Editing trick verses musical talent. I need help with my music. I want to be at a level nearer this, not the messy sounding, tape recorder style junk I've got now. Enjoy. Made famous by Nat King Cole. There's more too but just go to their site.

Pepsi Natural is Going "Bye-Bye" and Other Marketing Stuff (A JTG Rant)

I was at Target this week and a PepsiCo employee was there checking stock and shelf placement, and whatever they do to not help them sell soda better. Being the nerd that I am, I struck up a conversation with him about my love for Pepsi's products and my desire to work for PepsiCo. He said to me, "no you don't." What? I guess he is a commission based employee, which I would never want to be because goals are usually set at a point where reaching them is just shy of what is possible to reach for bonuses, and therefore, no money is made. This seemed to be his complaint. I did notice too many different sizes of cans and bottles, no Pepsi Natural, and just all around bad placement of the beverages. He also mentioned something about the Coca-Cola guy who also entered the isle. I quickly mentioned I hated Coke and he almost came to the rescue of the Coca-Cola guy. I felt like punching both of them after that. I asked him a few different questions about Pepsi and other flavors, but then I turned my focus to the fact that NO Pepsi Natural was on the shelves. He told me, it is done. Pepsi is not going to be selling it anymore. "What? That was a short run. And Pepsi did NO advertising anywhere for it," I told him. "Even Pepsi's own website doesn't mention Pepsi Natural." He told me they just try things and they are hit or miss. If it doesn't sell well right away, they pull it. It didn't seem right to me. I'm a huge Pepsi Natural fan. I mean, this is my favorite drink. I actually spend the extra money they charge for the glass bottled 4 packs of the stuff. And then I started thinking about how marketing people think they know sooo much about how to market products, companies, etc. For example, I had a great idea for my own employer. I believe they should use social networking sites, like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, to spread the word, for virtually free, to the world. Sure they would have to pay me a small salary to maintain the sites with current and relevant information about the company, ad campaigns, promotions, giveaways, etc., but I could do in for cheap. I wouldn't need an office. I wouldn't even need a computer really. I can practically do most of the required work from my phone (okay that might be pushing it a little, but don't pay some "marketing expert" moron 100K. Pay me 50K). This would be a great way to spread the word about the company, while at the same time, offering up solutions to problems, customer service help, and a way to control information about the company on the Internet. While on leave for a few weeks with a new baby, I set a meeting with the marketing people. These marketing geniuses basically didn't even let me explain my ideas. Instead, the president of marketing talked over me about how they were "already looking into this avenue of marketing" and "they were looking to hire someone who had experience in setting up this kind of site for a large company." So, in other words, my creative ideas after 9 plus years of experience with this company, would not be needed because some outside yahoo would be able to do it better; him with his marketing degree and all. I think what I'm getting at is: too often people go to school, are taught how to do things the teacher's way or the industries' standard way, given a degree that says, "you know marketing", and all the creative ideas of others are looked down upon or considered sub-par. My ideas come from experience, participation, and the observation of success in using these mediums. I look at what other LARGE companies are doing and how they make their followers, friends, and fans feel as though they are part of the company. I see that potential being wasted by the "marketing experts" of my company. The Mountain Dew Labs thing, for example; I'm not totally convinced I've had any impact on the design, look, name, or anything associated with flavor #231, but Mountain Dew made me feel like I did. They made me feel like I am part of their design team. I feel like I am part of the family. And that's what I see being the missed opportunity here. I spoke to two different customers this week about similar topics. One customer is a website designer. He told me he usually doesn't hire the college graduates who apply to his company because they design just like they were taught. There is no creativity in their designs, and they are often boring. The other customer was a retired marketing expert. He told me how the big corporate marketing jerks take the creativity of the little people and smash it to create the cookie cutter look that everyone else has. He talked about how the company he worked for was owned by a larger national company. When the larger parent company came in to "implement" the company's national message, they lost customers, jobs, and ultimately the whole smaller division, due to the lack of understanding their customers. Someone needs to take the little guy's ideas and let them run free. I think if my employer hired me to implement my social networking strategy, we would see almost instant gains in sales, recognition, and a nationwide acknowledgment of what the company is doing. We would be able to share our goals, products, position in the current market, and all the other strengths that make us one of the best in our industry. We would be able to show that we are the leading company in the nation, still doing business the same today as we did 5 years ago, before the current economic crisis. We are strong, secure, respected, and well funded to maintain a high level of quality service and products for our customers. These free marketing mediums would allow us to express our redefined focus on customer service and all the great products we offer both businesses and individuals. We could incorporate our national marketing campaigns with local focuses and successes throughout all our markets, products, and services. But back to my Pepsi Natural. Pepsi never even addressed that they made this stuff. It's no where to be found in any of their marketing. And it's sad because it is soooo good. Sure, they can't really talk about the fact that it's made with real cane sugar, making it easier for their consumers' bodies' to digest. They don't want to harm the sales of there biggest two beverage, Pepsi and Mountain Dew. But, why not talk about the "all natural ingredients" or the "original cola style taste" or the fact that it's stinking amazing, in a glass bottle, and a sophisticated grown-up soda? I'm so sad about Pepsi Natural. It really is good. People were not given a chance to try it. Maybe the marketing as natural threw off the masses. Instead, you marketing geniuses, try the "original cola styling" approach. That might get some more fans of old school stuff to try it. Look at the marketing success of the VW Beetle when it came back out. It's been awhile since I had a good rant, so here's one about marketing, Pepsi Natural, and college educated people sucking. HAHA. Maybe that's a little harsh. Sorry to those of you who went to college and think you are somehow smarter, or you who think the word "sucking" is as bad as any cuss word. I'm actually sad about my misfortune with the marketing people at my company. I know I would be good at it. I'm still passionate about it, and that means I care enough about it that I'd do really well at it. I'd enjoy my job too. But for now, I'll still work hard where I am.

7000 Jews by Grace

Today, I finally get back to Romans chapter 11. I accidentally got myself out of order back in August. I jumped from chapter 10:5 to 11:5, so after today's entry, jump to here.

In Romans 11:1-6, Paul asks if God has rejected his people. And although the Jews did reject God, He did not rejected them. Paul points out the fact that he is a Jew, and God chose Paul to spread the word of Jesus death and resurrection, and spoke to both Jews and gentiles about their need for a Savior.

Paul, in verse 5 and 6, points to the fact that it's by God's grace that 7000 Jews were selected by God, when all others were killing God's prophets and destroying His alters. It's all by God's grace.

Praise God for His Grace

Make Jesus Lord

Romans 10:18-21 talk about the fact that the whole world has heard about God. Everyone needs a Savior, whether or not they confess that. My wife and I started talking about these passages and it caused me to re-read verse 9. "if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is LORD..." He has to be Lord. You confess it, but the words are just words unless you believe it, allow it, and are conformed by it. "Even the demons believe - and shudder!" (James 2:19)

The word confess must mean something more than just "saying words". By confessing, you are admitting truth; you are admitting that Jesus IS Lord of your life. The passage does not say, "if you say Jesus is Lord," it says, "if you confess..." It is so important to make Jesus Lord.

There are a lot of excuses we make that lead us to lazy lives. And laziness can be a sign of being a lukewarm Christian. And a lukewarm Christian is spit out of the mouth of God, this means you are not saved. And, THAT IS SCARY to me. I've been so lukewarm (closer to cold) for to long. I need my butt kicked. I've even allowed myself to become depressed and miserable. These are not characteristics of a Christian. We have the grace of God in our lives. We have the hope of the free gift of God. And if Jesus is the Lord of our lives, all we do will be for His glory and therefore good. Sure, life will probably be harder; sin is so easy. But it will be worth it because it will feel good, bring joy, satisfy beyond understanding. If Jesus is Lord, you can take comfort in knowing all that comes your way is for His glory. And you can face down any challenge because Jesus is Lord, God is God, and they are on your side.

It is time for me to turn my life around. I need to do only things that are for the glory of God. Although it was easier when I was involved in church with music and youth ministries, there is an unsaved world that I work in and with; and there is an opportunity to be an example to these people. Forget the stresses of life. Work to please God and everything else will not matter. Don't work to please man. Don't live to bring glory to yourself. Live and breath for the purpose of glorifying God. John Piper says, "The chief end of man is to glorify God BY enjoying Him forever." I would say, by glorifying God, we will enjoy life better. Our lives will have meaning. Without a commitment to the glorification of God, there is no meaning for our existence. My wife said as an example, "Angelina Jolie is an atheist and probably thinks of herself as a good person because she donates millions of dollars to charities and is taking care of underprivileged kids." If it was for the glory of God it would mean something. Unfortunately, it's for the glory of Angie.

Praise God and Glorify Him Today. Make Jesus Lord.

Faith Comes from Hearing, Through the Word

Romans 10:14-17 asks several questions. How do does one call on Him in whom they have not believed? How does one believe in whom they have not heard? And how does one hear without someone preaching? Verse 17 tells us that "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ."

Here in the USA, we have such access to churches, Bibles, and other resources to hear and study the word of God. On a personal level we need to be working through studying the word of God, the Bible. Also, we need to be diligent to attend a local church to hear the word of God preached. This is a little more challenging, as it is easy to find a church but it is more difficult to find a preacher who actually preaches the word of God. It's important to find a Bible teaching church, one that goes verse by verse through a particular section so nothing is taken out of context. This is called expository preaching. Topical preaching, another style, can allow for too much opinion and misinterpretation of the a passage or verse.

Confess and Believe and You Will Be Saved

Chapter 10:5-13 talks about the great hope anyone can have in Jesus Christ. And it's always been this way. Often, people think of the old testament as the time when people were saved by following a bunch of rules and preforming sacrifices. But even Moses wrote about righteousness based on the law verses righteousness based on faith. Those who base their righteousness on the law must live by the law, meaning a strict adherence to the law is required for salvation; and NO ONE can follow the law perfectly. But righteousness based on faith allows for verse 9. "...if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." And verses 12 and 13 tell us everyone who called on the name of the Lord will be saved, Jews and Gentiles.

Praise God for The Free Gift of Salvation.

Royal Red Robin Burger

This is such a good burger. It's the Red Robin "Royal Red Robin
Burger" and it is delicious. Burger, bacon, FRIED EGG!! So good people.

The only thing missing is the Pepsi products they used to carry.

5 Weeks Off and Nothing

How wrong of me to not write on this blog these last almost 5 weeks off. I'm sad at my lack of blogging. I had a real chance to get this thing going strong and I never did. Boo on me.

All The Single Ladies....This is Better

I love these tricky editing and layering music videos. This one is great. UPDATE: This one has crazy good harmony. Such a cool sound to this old song. Julie Andrews would be proud...I'm guessing.

Beeeeeez. RUN!!!

How Does Dell Sell Anything?

How does Dell sell anything these days? I am trying to upgrade my hard drive from the original 60Gb to something closer to 250 or 320Gb. The problem I am having is the speed of the drive. I wanted a 7200rpm drive, but I can't find any larger than 80Gb. And maybe that's all there is, but Dell is no help. I called and was transferred 3 times, then told there would be a wait. Next, while I was also on their website, a chat request window popped up from Dell and I accepted the request. I started down in a queue of 12 people. What is wrong with this company? I'm attempting to call or chat so I can BUY something from them and I can't even get through to a person. Their phone menu system works off voice recognition...(or doesn't work). I kept getting the, "sorry, I didn't understand that" from the other end. Now, I'm still sitting here waiting for someone to help me. And, while I've been waiting I've found (via the Internet search, and Western Digital's website) I'm going to have to go with a slower drive. Is it worth it? I don't know, but I can tell you, Dell will never get a dime from me again. What a messed up company. UPDATE: About 15 minutes later my chat began and I was given an 800# to call with my request. I called the number and got through to a person, only the person answered the phone as the "toner and ink refill department" or something to that affect. Then, the 80Gb hard drive was the only option at something like $215. WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!? That's almost the price of a new laptop.

The R's

Since the Scirocco is not coming to the USA, I'll take a VW Golf R.

The Perfect Crayon

One from Red Robin, one from BJ's Pizza. One round and one triangle. One rolls off the table, one does not. Good job BJ's. Good job.

2011 Ford Super Duty

I'm not going to lie, I hope Ford figures out how to be successful above and beyond their current and past performances. I hope they show GM and Chrysler, the two American Car companies that took government money and are still struggling, how a company in a struggling industry can shed pounds, build better vehicles around what the consumers want, and make it through a tough economical time. Ford has the opportunity to be a leader in this country and others. Also, I'm posting the videos series about the new Super Duty for my own benefit. I want to be able watch these videos now and later, as I think Ford's use of Mike Rowe is really smart. They used him with the F-150 video series that showed off the F-150's benefits and better build qualities over the Chevy Silverado, Toyota Tundra, and Dodge Ram. Here are the videos for the upcoming 2011 Ford Super Duty (F-250, 350, etc): My only complaint so far is the fact that the yellow(orange) blinker is on top and the headlight is on the bottom. It's backward to me and looks weird. Take a look: I do think the truck is really good looking, much better looking than the current model. Here's my wallpaper: For a complete gallery, check out Autoblog.