ClayNeSmith.com

Everybody Needs a Little Rub

2012-01-04T10:48:00.000-05:00

If we are not getting rubbed, we are not getting better. Greatness comes in our lives when we are rubbed. Most people want to be patted, not rubbed. When the rubbing starts the running starts or the hiding starts. I am learning those who rub me make me sharper... those who rub me to make me better, those who rub me make me stronger. It is very difficult to stay the course in becoming great, because staying the course means that your feelings will get hurt, challenges will come, and sometimes you will be misunderstood.

God is speaking to me about becoming a "IRON MAN" ...

Proverbs27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpensanother.

Iron cannot sharpen iron unless it is rubbed together and we as people can't become sharper unless we are rubbing each other sometimes. Some of the greatest athletic coaches I ever had rubbed me the wrong way lots of times, but I became better. We all need to be pushed to become better. Who do you have in your life knocking the spurs off of you so you can become better? Who do you have that will get in your grill? We all need to be rubbed!

When the rubbing starts sparks fly. Don't be afraid of the sparks that fly in a relationship. The sparks have the potential to make you sharper... disagreements will happen... Don't run off every time rubbing starts and sparks fly to a place you will get patted... you will not become great. Stay the course, because the sparks may mean something is happening and you are being developed. Some of the greatest leadership meetings I've ever been a part of were where sparks fly and people stay. Everybody ends up better on the other side of the conversation. Greatness does not run when disagreement happens!

Along that same lines ... When iron is sharpened against iron there is a little noise. Don't be afraid to tell the truth and speak into each others life. It makes us better. Great people are built in great relationships... Surround yourself with people who will challenge you, encourage you and who refuse to let you stay the same. Surround yourself with some Iron. It will help you reach your God potential!

Remember Jesus did not Forgive us to leave us the same... He came to give overflowing life to us... He wants to make us whole. This takes discipline and great relationships. Get in relationships that are aggressive enough to challenge you and encourage you with the truth at the same time.

Serving is not just Serving

2012-01-02T11:50:00.002-05:00

Serving is not just Serving...Let's Serve with Purpose & Passion... Serving is the Platform for Leadership and Influence ... It is the pathway to help people discover Greatness! What are You Serving-Why are You Serving-Who are You Serving-Where are You Serving... Serving Can Change the World!
Jesus said in...
Matthew 20:28 - For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve othersand to give his life as a ransom for many.
This is not TraditionalThinking, but it is the Truth of being very Effective in Changing theWorld!
Jesus’ Serving was His Platform for Influence and Leadership. It wasgoing to the bottom to take people to the top… Jesus was not just aimlessly serving to make people feel good, He served with passion and purpose to help us discover that God wants to do amazing things through us. He gave His Life so we could find life.
When we serve we are built in the process! Thank you Jesus for this amazing leadership lesson!

This is why We're the "Sweat Swagger Church" Wear the Sweat/Live the Swagger and let's Change the World!

New Years Weekend at Barefoot Church ... Your Invited!

2011-12-29T13:12:00.002-05:00

Some thoughts about this past weekends message ... Click here to View Message!

2011-12-05T20:33:00.009-05:00

Sometimes as I review on Mondays... I journal some quick thoughts that I have after preaching the weekend message I just taught. These are my thoughts from this past weekends message in a nutshell.

Mark 14 - This could be one of the greatest passages ever recorded for giving to the Kingdom of God to Advance the Good News of Jesus… The Story is about a sinner woman breaking open the Alabaster Jar!

Jesus said what this woman did would be Remembered and Discussed wherever the GOSPEL (GOOD NEWS) was Preached…Proclaimed…Promoted…Announced!
Why?

This woman had her worship on and her worship was about Advancing the Gospel!
Jesus says in the passage that her gift (Very expensive perfume wrapped in extravagant alabaster) was given in advance to prepare Him for burial. In other words… Preparing Him to be advanced to do what he came to earth to do… Go to the Cross – Die for our sin – and resurrect from the grave!

This event takes place right about the time of Passover… Just before He goes to the cross… The friends of Jesus that were in the room where the woman walked in with the gift and with a purpose for the gift did not get it! These were His friends, people who had been touched by Him, people who had walked with Him, but they did not get what this Sinner Woman Got… She gave extravagantly to Advance the Gospel! Just like the Kings gave the gifts when Jesus was a baby which helped to advanced Jesus to be moved to Egypt… This gift that this Sinner Woman gave was for the same reason… To advance the Gospel!

When we pay close attention to what Jesus said in the passage… “The poor will always be among you and you can always give to that”… Then He continues on to tell those friends in the room who thought the woman was being wasteful with her worship and her giving that He will not always be there with them physically.
Jesus is clearly saying:

You guys are about to miss a window of opportunity and you need to be like this woman and get your priorities straight… You have totally missed it!
ADVANCING THE GOSPEL should be on the top of your giving list! Needs will always be among you… stop focusing on the world’s problems and start focusing on the solution… Which was Him!

Advancing the gospel has to be top priority in our giving as followers of Christ. Giving to Advance the gospel is worshiping the One who we believe is the world’s solution… We give to what we worship!

The Kings advanced the Gospel to Egypt… This Sinner woman advanced the Gospel to the Cross… We advance the Gospel to peoples heart…

The Churches/Christ Followers top priority in giving should be to Advance the Gospel.
There is nothing wrong with giving to need, for merit, or because it is the traditional thing for us to do… We at Barefoot Church give for all these reasons… But Advancing the Gospel has to be Top Priority for a believers life and in our giving as a Church… Jesus is the solution and that Good News is what Changes lives.

The Jarring Event that took place in Mark 14 has become one of the most Jarring events (Impacting Events) that has ever hit the planet!

As Jesus said… it is to be remembered and discussed. Her worship was her extravagant giving - her giving was to Advance the Gospel.

The friends of Jesus in the room said her gift was a waste and could have been used to do something else! They did not think that her gift was very efficient, however it was very effective. Because the Gift that she gave did the most important thing … Advanced the Gospel!

I Love Sterling's Announcement

2010-04-10T12:37:00.002-04:00

An Announcement From Sterling Hill ....

Type:
Party -
Date:
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Time:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:
Barefoot Church
Street:
701 Main Street
Description
Hey Guys, Its FINALLY time for me to officially put on my GOD JERSEY & I am soo excited. I want EVERYONE to come see this. I feel this is more important to me then my Graduation or any Award I could ever be given. Bring friends, & if you wanna be Baptised too, I'm sure they can work it out.

I was first baptised when I was four & in my youth I felt a relationship with Jesus. However, somewhere along the road of life I adapted to a sort of agnostic point of view. I have probably told many of you of all my criticisms of Christianity & The Bible. But make no mistake, I got a whole new mindset now. In fact, I got a whole new life now.

I was looking at God's word from a legalistic point of view & so many things about the bible seemed foolish to me. (which odly enough, the bible says that's the case with any man who doesn't believe) Now, however, I see & feel Jesus Christ's love for me... & it is AWESOME!

What first started as my attempt to surrender my life to Him has become my acting out of love towards Him. The person that I am & have been has changed. My old self was dead & tomorrow, I will be raised to the "Newness of Life" & I want you all there to witness it. Thank You so much for your continued support.

Easter 2010

2010-04-09T08:13:00.000-04:00

We had an incredible, amazing, and miraculous Easter weekend at Barefoot Church! Many people took steps towards Christ and with Christ by stepping forward and dropping their rocks and accepting Him as their personal Savior. We had almost three times the number of people in attendance this weekend….746 decisions to accept Christ, and ….4734 in attendance. God is Amazing!

We wanted to say a special “Thank You” to all the volunteers, leaders, and staff who served for hours, with little rest, to ensure that people would connect with God! Also, we wanted to say a special “Thank You” to all of you who are with us running after God and the vision that He gave our church with such commitment, enthusiasm, and passion… serving Him with your time, energy, and resources. Great job everyone and “Thank You Lord” for Your blessings and changed lives!....He did some really amazing things through us, collectively serving together.

We love doing life with you all and serving with you all. We, truly, could not do it without each and every one of you. Let’s continue to gear up for what God wants to do for the rest of 2010, and together we will comfort the hurting, encourage the discouraged, and continue to change lives that change the world...Let's do it together...God bless.

Sincerely,

Pastor Clay and Kim

P.S. As I heard Pastor Jim say, “Take a deep breath, but don’t sit down. There’s still a lot of exciting things ahead.” Baptisms this week, LIFE Group Catalyst the following week, TEAM IMPACT coming, and God and Country weekend over the 4th of July, just to name a few.

Change

2010-03-22T08:19:00.003-04:00

In Mark Chapter 2:18-22 Some people came to Jesus and they were asking the why question. Why are your followers doing things differently? Why aren't they doing the same thing everybody else is doing? Jesus' answer is great!

Jesus answered them with parables, but he was making a point! He is Basically saying "They are willing to change because they are not worshiping methods and systems, they are worshiping me!"

Some very good people who were walking the streets with Jesus were not willing to change because they were caught up in the methods and systems... they were comfortable because they felt as though they were doing something great and sacrificial... they were unwilling to change their processes even though Jesus was standing right there with them.
Their systems were created to point them towards Him and they had their head in the sand and missed that He was right there! They would not change anything and missed what God was doing right there among them. They had become very comfortable with the systems and methods and they were very self-confident.

So the question for us is... "Do we sometimes miss what God is trying to show us because we become comfortable with our systems and methods?" I am not for changing things for the sake of changing them, but I don't want to get caught up in doing things a certain way because everybody else is doing it that way or because that is the way it's always been done.

Change is not a bad thing! I will be writing on this over the next few days, but let me start with this ...

Why do we resist change? ... Some things I wrote in my journal ...

1) Change is Hard
2) Change is Challenging
3) Change Requires Thinking
4) Change is Uncomfortable
5) Change is not Always Popular
6) Change is Risky
7) Change will Usually Cost You Something

Pruning ... John15! ... it can hurt ... but it's good!

2010-02-28T14:30:00.001-05:00

Five Thoughts about Discipleship

2010-02-24T21:55:00.002-05:00

1) Discipleship is about Movement.

2) Discipleship happens with active engagement.

3) Discipleship happens in different environments.

4) Discipleship is for a purpose.

5) Discipleship has to be intentional, but does not have to be structured.

Helping Haiti ...; Thank You!

2010-01-18T20:08:00.001-05:00

Haiti Relief - Truck Loading from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Coming Jan. 23rd

2010-01-13T15:32:00.000-05:00

Vertigo Series Teaser from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Next Week

2010-01-13T05:43:00.001-05:00

Vertigo Teaser No Sound from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Be A Champion Study Guide

2010-01-05T20:42:00.001-05:00

Weekend Message Study Guide
Being a Champion
January 3, 2010
Clay NeSmith

Being a Champion
“No one wakes up in the morning and says, ‘I want to lose today.’” Clay Nesmith

1. Champions remember what they ought to remember. Studies show that 65% of second-generation family businesses fail and a mind-boggling 90% of third-generation businesses fail! They forget the vision and moral values that the company was birthed with. They forgot what they ought to remember. Look at 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 and 2 Corinthians 6:1. If you remember these things, what difference would it make in your life? What practices can help you remember? (Communion, journals, letters of thanks to God and others who are investing in you, . . .)

2. Champions forget the things they ought to forget. Read Philippians 3:12-14. Champions miss shots and make mistakes. They make great plays, but realize that there is still more to be done. Babe Ruth led the American League in Strike Outs - 1918, 1923, 1924, 1927 and 1928. Living in the past means we will be focused on tombstones (failures) and trophies (successes). Neither one of these will allow you to reach your potential today. What do you remember about your past that you ought to forget?

3. Champions understand the resources they have at their disposal. They know and use everything available to succeed. As Christians we have a great Coach (Romans 8:11). How do you respond and use this resource God has given you? We have been given a great Playbook for life. The Bible is Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) How are you utilizing this great resource God has given you? 2 Corinthians 12:1-6 says that God has given us a special gift. How are you using the gift God has given you? He has also given us a team of believers to make us successful. (2 Corinthians 12:7) How are you utilizing the people around you to help you become a champion? How are you playing your part to help others become champions?

4. Champions have a strong work ethic. Read Philippians 2:12-13. It doesn’t say that we are to work FOR our salvation, but it does say that we are to work IN our salvation. Champions do drills on their own. They study the Bible on their own, not just when the church meets. They make the game look easy because they work hard. What are you doing to become a Champion? It will make life better here on the planet, it will be help others come to Christ and will provide eternal rewards in the future. (1 Corinthians 3:11-15)

5. Hebrews 12:2 “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (NLT) What does this verse mean to you?

(Interested in a LIFE Group with others who are striving to be champions for Christ? Call Jim Evans at the church office @843-280-1270.)

Be A Champion in 2010

2010-01-05T20:40:00.000-05:00

010310 Champion from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Get Your Window Clean ... Christmas Message 2009

2009-12-26T12:01:00.000-05:00

122409 from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Your Greatest Gift!

2009-12-13T21:58:00.001-05:00

Your Greatest Gift from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Rethink Halloween

2009-10-25T18:02:00.000-04:00

Barefoot Kidz Walk Thru

2009-10-15T09:12:00.000-04:00

THE KIDZ PROJECT!

2009-10-06T21:38:00.000-04:00

Barefoot Kids Coming Soon! from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

Accelerate Conference 2009

2009-08-27T15:10:00.000-04:00

It is hard for me to believe that the Accelerate Conference hosted by C3 Church in Clayton, North Carolina took place almost one year ago. Where has the time gone?

What a memorable conference it was for me and our staff in more ways than one. First, when I attended Accelerate last year, I was in the middle of my Exposed Pastor Series and had a camera following me around 24 hours a day. That was quite an awesome experience and a challenge.

Second, I remember how friendly and accommodating Pastor Matt and Martha Fry, and their staff, and volunteers were to us. The hospitality was at a another level!

Although this was C3’s first Accelerate Conference it seemed to us as they had been putting it on for years.

The organization and content of breakout sessions were such a value to me and our team. Pastor Matt and Pastor Greg Surratt of Seacoast Church in Charleston South Carolina were such an encouragement too.

Also, having access to C3’s staff and facilities enabled us to catch a vision for things we could do to enhance the way we operate here at Barefoot Church.

C3’s Accelerate Conference 2009 is right around the corner and I would encourage all churches to attend September 11 – 12. For information concerning Accelerate 2009 visit the website at http:///www.accelerateconference.com or go to the C3 Church website at http://www.C3church.com

MONDAY SCHOOL!

2009-08-22T10:47:00.001-04:00

Monday School Bumper from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

History of Barefoot!

2009-07-20T10:49:00.001-04:00

071909 Motion from Barefoot Church on Vimeo.

What You Learned Today In MONDAY SCHOOL ...

2009-06-15T09:50:00.005-04:00

Monday School is what you are learning from God while you are doing life all week long. Taking the principles you learned on Sunday and applying them to what life brings you on Monday. At work, at home, in your relationships, in traffic, in your conflicts, etc.

Post your comments below as we all learn from each other in Monday School ...

Beach Baptisms

2009-05-26T05:41:00.001-04:00

What an Awesome Day at the Beach!

Bob and JoAnn's Story

2009-04-27T09:31:00.000-04:00

PrImping ...

2009-04-22T17:50:00.004-04:00

How we Make Disciples ...

2009-04-13T10:11:00.003-04:00

I often get this question … How do you disciple people at Barefoot? Most of the time what they are really asking is… What kinds of programs do you all have?
I thought I would answer the question about making disciples… Below is the answer…

1) We invite people to put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ … For Salvation and for doing life here and now.

2) We invite people to do life with other people who are on the journey.

3) We invite people to read their Bible and do what it says.

4) We invite people to serve in His Kingdom using the gifts and talents that God has given them.

These are 4 simple steps to becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ. Thanks for asking the question and may you move at the pace God is asking you to move.

Easter!!!

2009-03-26T15:51:00.000-04:00

Nice ...

2009-02-18T16:58:00.002-05:00

Nick did a nice job on the face of my blog for this series ... Now I need to get back to blogging.

Twitter has become my default for sharing thoughts and my heart. We are in this series where we are talking about change. Change is good, but change is hard. We are changing some things at Barefoot not to be cool, but to make a Kingdom difference.

Hold on because the changes are getting ready intensify. I love change, it creates growth in people!

New Series

2009-02-06T21:40:00.000-05:00

This is our Upcoming Series!

Why was Joshua the Leader...

2009-01-05T08:00:00.005-05:00

The Bible says in Joshua 4:14 - " That day the Lord made Joshua a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites, and for the rest of his life they revered him as much as they had revered Moses."

Joshua became a great leader that day. The bible says... the Lord made Joshua that great leader.

I think this is awesome and God is looking for some great leaders. However, there were some prerequisites for Joshua before he was appointed and anointed leader by God.

Check out what Joshua did before God appointed him leader. Much of it started long before this time... but most of why God appointed Joshua is outlined in Chapter 3. Let me hear your thoughts on why God used Joshua as leader!

Radical...

2008-12-31T20:17:00.004-05:00

2008 has been incredible. Now we are looking into 2009. I have been thinking lots today about goals and dreams for 2009. None of what I am thinking will happen unless God allows it to and we labor like crazy to accomplish great things. I need great leaders around me to accomplish what I am dreaming about. I cannot do this alone.

I spent some time with my dying uncle yesterday and realized how I want to live the next 30 -40 years ... One word describes it! Radical! Real Radical. We will not hold anything back this coming year and I can't wait.

Who knows how long we have? Let's run after it harder than we ever have before!

Celebration Style...

2008-12-28T05:31:00.003-05:00

Thegiftrevolution.com was a great way to close out 2008. Kim and I want to say thank you to all of you who helped in changing the world in 2008.

Today we will be doing our services "celebration style" ... Come and join us as we close out 2008 and prepare to move into 2009.

We will be baptizing, taking communion, remembering and reflecting on all that God has done this past year. Hope to see you at one of our three services... 9a.m., 11a.m., and 6p.m. (EST).

2008-12-25T11:56:00.006-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE... FROM THE NESMITH'S

Thanks for joining us here at claynesmith.com in 2008.

We look forward to the journey with you in 2009!

God has done some amazing things this year and we are in awe this Christmas Day.

Love all of you ... Clay, Kim, and Cole

Dreaming about 09'...

2008-12-22T08:51:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was amazing! One of the greatest things about being a part of the local church is working with other people to accomplish a task that is bigger than yourself. Every week I walk into Barefoot Church and see new faces working to accomplish the vision that God has placed on this church. The Internet campus was booming yesterday as well. We will be launching this campus in the near future, however people are already stepping up and serving on this campus because big things are coming.

God is using ordinary people to accomplish an extraordinary vision. A big "thank you" goes out to all of you who work hard to change the world.

Thegiftrevolution.com has given us a taste of what happens when God's people work together... It has the potential to change the world one conversation at a time.

We are gearing up for a big 2009 and I want to encourage you to find your place and let's do this thing together. We are going to be launching some new worship venues and opportunities. We are going to start some churches in other states and around the world. We are going to be adding to our Main Street location. The best is yet to come, all we have to do is be available for the task.

Thanks Barefoot for dreaming God size dreams!

Keep up the Good Work...

2008-12-17T08:14:00.005-05:00

We are still running strong ... Every country in the world has received a call from the gift revolution team. Flamingo Road Church has had a call team during our series. They have been making calls all around the world. They have made one phone call to every country in the world telling them Merry Christmas and about thegiftrevolution.com. That is inspiration!

What we do over the next 8 days will matter. Because thegiftrevolution.com will snowball from there. We are starting a revolution that will impact the world in the coming months!

So let's keep on giving the gift, big or small, giving the card, and sharing our stories at thegiftrevolution.com.

Ephesians 4 In Action...

2008-12-10T08:27:00.004-05:00

When the ministry is put in the hands of God's people it makes a world of difference.

Ephesians chapter 4 states that God has given leadership gifts to the church and their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.

This is exactly what The Gift Revolution is all about... All of us working together to impact the world.

God has taught me so much over the past few weeks. I have watched God's people do amazing things. What we are doing through The Gift Revolution is exactly what we are to always do. Not just go to church, but be the church. You all are doing great at being the church and I am so inspired.

We, the leadership, created an environment, (The Gift Revolution series)... gave the tools to God's people, (The cards for you to share) and coached or taught what this movement is all about (The weekend teachings and modeling by doing). This is Ephesians 4 leadership.

God's People have engaged with their passion and shared their God given abilities with others. People have been giving and sharing their time, energy and resources in the community and around the world. This kind of ministry touches lives and points people towards Jesus. May we all learn from this series and continue to ramp it up and reach our full God given potential.

Keep it Rollin'

2008-12-07T17:08:00.003-05:00

Two weeks into The Gift Revolution and 52 countries have been inspired. This week we are stepping it up... A sudden and radical change is happening and we have about two weeks left.

Be sure and share your story at www.thegiftrevolution.com ... your story will inspire others. All stories are important, big or small. They make a difference.

Start inviting your friends and family to the Christmas Eve Services... It will be a time to remember. I am jacked about these services. We are going to be doing some things we have never done before.

Inspiring Week...

2008-12-05T16:25:00.004-05:00

The Revolution is going strong. We just got back from South Florida. Flamingo Road Church had an incredible rally and we we encouraged and energized by being there.

The stories are increasing daily on the website and lives are being touched and changed around the world. Remember we can do this... A sudden and radical change. When no one wants to give, we can give. When the world seems hopeless, we can deliver hope. When people are hurting and hiding, we can help them.

We have to keep pushing and the change will become viral. People will start wanting to give, to help, and inspire others.

Thanks for a great week. Three more to go!

We look forward to seeing you this weekend at one of our three services.

Revolution Central ...

2008-12-02T14:25:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to stop by Revolution Central each night from about 4p.m. until 9p.m. (EST) .

701 Main Street North Myrtle Beach SC

We will be out there with the RV and and a nice fire to stay warm. Cards are available, times and locations of events can be found here and encouragement from our team leaders.

Stop by and join the Gift Revolution Team, they would love to have you!

The Love Bus...

2008-11-29T07:14:00.004-05:00

The Love Bus was on a roll yesterday. We gave out thousands of cards and many gifts to people who were rushing to the shopping mall and other stores in the area.

I had the opportunity to ride in the Love Bus for a couple of hours last night. It was incredible to see the smiles on peoples face as Steve would drive and toot the horn and Julie, Kim, and Cole would hand them a gift and tell them Merry Christmas.

Inspiring the world one gift at a time. Thousands of people yesterday were touched and know that they matter. We are making a difference and we are only one week into this movement.

Thanks to all of you who gave this week and did something with what God gave you.

Invite your friends to church tomorrow 9 a.m, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. .... Get there early and join the fun. It is going to be an incredible day!

Also, don't forget to check out what is happening around the world and post your stories on thegiftrevolution.com

Enthusiasm ...

2008-11-28T08:25:00.003-05:00

The Revolution is on a roll! People are enthused and charging ahead doing acts of kindness. God is at work in peoples life and inspiration is happening everywhere. Don't miss the action, let's inspire the world throughout the month of December.

Enthusiasm (En-Theos) means to have God within. When we have God within... Something happens. We want to live out the values our great God has put in us! Thegiftrevolution.com is one way to do this ... Living out what God has put in us.

Mark Josephs, who is on our Directional Leadership Team at Barefoot, has a great post about enthusiasm. Check it out here.

Movement

2008-11-25T06:48:00.003-05:00

Movement happens when we work together like a team of horses. That is happening right now with the giftrevolution.com ... A team of people, about the same goal and moving forward together.

We are inspiring the world with one of the greatest attributes of our Great God. Giving!

Let's keep it going, it is making a world of difference. When we all are going in the same direction, with the same vision, for the same reason, it is amazing to see what happens.

The Revolution has started...

2008-11-23T22:23:00.003-05:00

Today was awesome! We had a record crowd and people are already sharing thegiftrevolution.com with others.

I cannot wait to see what all God does through this series. Hang on it is going to be incredible.

See you at the rally tomorrow night 6:30 p.m. (EST) ... Don't be late and bring somebody with you it will be a night to remember. We will be live here on this blog and on barefootchurch.com ... Hope to see you at the rally!

In just Seven Day...

2008-11-16T19:52:00.004-05:00

We are kicking off the biggest thing we have ever done as a church in just seven days.

I have been thinking, praying, and dreaming about what God is going to do starting next weekend. It is going to be a amazing!

I would ask all of you to start praying about this big movement. It is going to be a Christmas season like none other.

If you are coming to the services next weekend... don't be late, you may miss something.

God is Big!

2008-11-10T09:17:00.002-05:00

Does your vision expand, refine itself, and become more focused as you grow as a leader? Mine does!

I started this church with full confidence that God was going to do something big. Not because of who I am, because of who I believed Him to be. God has taken me through the good times and the tough times. He is building me as a leader and refining the vision He has for Barefoot Church.

When we started I was thinking God was going to do something big by putting a church in a community that changes lives. God was bigger than my definition of Big.

Then God showed me that He wanted to plant a church in a city that would change lives. God was bigger than my definition of Big.

Now God is showing me that He wants our church to reach into multiple locations. God is bigger than my definition of big.

I continue to grow in my relationship with God and continue to learn that God does things bigger than I can ever think of. He does more than I can imagine. I just have to keep following and expanding as He directs.

How about you? Do you continue to let God grow you? Expand the vision that He gave to you? Refine that vision in your heart? Do you become more focused on what He has called you to do? It is an amazing ride when you allow Him to challenge, stretch, and develop you. He does this through many sources, all you have to do is pay attention and keep in step! May we all continue to see that God is bigger than us!

Making a Difference...

2008-11-05T08:04:00.003-05:00

The Barefoot family has a heart to help when people feel helpless and to deliver hope when things seem hopeless. Last week we collected enough resources to feed 816 people a fine Thanksgiving dinner this year. We still have two weeks until Thanksgiving and you have stepped up big time.

As we kick into the holiday season we are going to have great opportunity to make a difference. I cannot wait to see what it looks like when we all pull together to impact lives over the next few months.

A Big huge thank you goes out to all of you. We are making a difference because Jesus changes lives that change the world!

Live on Exposedpastor.com

2008-11-03T08:14:00.004-05:00

Kim and I will be live tonight on Exposedpastor.com ...We will be talking about our Next Steps at Barefoot and of course, other random stuff...

Join us in the live chat room at 7 p.m. We will have some great prizes and we will be giving away some cool stuff. Hope to see you at 7 on the couch!

Leadership Lesson...

2008-10-29T14:31:00.003-04:00

This is a lesson I taught to some of our leadership team yesterday...

God has entrusted us with three things that we are to steward.

1) Resources to leverage for ministry.
2) Leadership ability to inspire and coach others to reach their potential.
3) People to do the work of the ministry.

Leaders... The God of the universe has given you the opportunity and responsibility to lead. I would love to hear how you steward these three things.

It's Coming Soon...

2008-10-27T18:35:00.001-04:00

Theres A Revolution Coming!

Fixing It...

2008-10-23T08:36:00.002-04:00

How often as a leader do you see what is wrong, but delay this fix?
I do this all the time. If it is an emergency, I tend to jump in and have the "fix it NOW" attitude. If it is not, I don’t always fix it. Why?

1) If I fix everything, others don’t have the opportunity to grow.
2) If I fix everything, I don’t have the opportunity to see who else can lead that’s around me.
3) If I fix everything, people look at me for the answers, not the team or ultimately the God of the universe.
4) If I fix everything, I am great at nothing. I am Mr. fix it, not great at what God has for me to do.
5) If I fix everything, I become tired and worn out.
6) If I fix everything, then I can’t see if others on the team really care about leading in their area.

There is a time, after things get to a certain point, that I must lead. I must step in and fix things or have others fix and correct the challenge. Finding that balance is tough. If you are a leader, jumping in too quick, is not the answer. Jumping in too late is also not the answer. Timing is everything.

When do you jump in as a leader and get things back on track? I’d love to hear!

Change...

2008-10-21T06:55:00.003-04:00

We have been changing some processes and ministries around at Barefoot Church. We are always doing this... it is part of our culture at Barefoot.

Whenever we change things in our home, workplace, or relationships, we will get a little push back from others. Change makes things a little uncomfortable for all of us, but I have found that change is one of the greatest ways to grow people and get to the next level in our lives.

I was praying about this last Friday morning while I was running on the beach. Here are a few things that came to my mind about change. It was as the Lord was impressing upon my heart... "Push through the push back" because:

Change is great… It propels the vision forward.
Change is great... It keeps everyone alert.
Change is great... It allows others opportunity.
Change is great... It keeps everything fresh.
Change is great... It allows growth, strength and builds courage.
Change is great... Don't be afraid to change.

These are a few thoughts about change... It seems hard, but change is good for all of us. Change makes us think and change will refocuses us on why we do what we do. Is God leading you to change something today?

Blogging Fast

2008-10-16T22:09:00.001-04:00

I am on a Blogging fast... I will be back at it next week. Thanks for tuning in.

Your Next Step

2008-10-08T08:29:00.005-04:00

Everyone should have a next step... A next step produces strength, growth, and development.
Proverbs makes it clear, if you don't have a vision, then you will perish.

My prayer is that everyone would get a vision and focus on it. This will help you in taking your next step. Lots of people say, "I don't know what to do." I ask, "what is your vision"... Take a step towards that and run after it hard.

What is the vision for your marriage? If it is to be in love passionately with your spouse, do something small for him or her today. That is a step! A great marriage takes work. It is the steps you take that will make the difference. Great marriages don't happen overnight.

The same is true with your finances. The same is true with everything else you do in life. Have a vision and take a step each day towards that vision. You will wake up one day and say "WOW"!

When you start, the people around you may think you are a little crazy. They cannot see what you see. However, take a step today and in ten days you will be ten steps closer.

It takes faith to take steps. You have to believe in order to take the steps. You won't see the results until you let go and take that step. You may fall down, but get up and keep trying. That is how a baby learns to walk and that is how you will learn to run!

New Staff and a Great day

2008-10-05T16:49:00.005-04:00

We just finished another beach baptism here at Barefoot and thirty-eight people just announced Jesus as the King and Lord of their life. I love these moments... God is doing the Unbelievable right now in the life of the local church. I am hearing about life change all over the world.

We also have two new staff members I would like to introduce:

1) Steve Mullins our Worship Pastor. Steve is married to Julie and they have two children... Hunter and Alex. You can catch up with Steve on his facebook account or at www.twitter.com/stevemullins.

2) Mark Josephs our Chief Strategic Officer here at Barefoot. Mark is married to Shannon and they have two kids... Brock and Blair. You can learn more about Mark and hear about what is going on here at Barefoot through his blog at www.bclifechange.com ... It is great to have a guy like Mark at your side and a privilege to have him on the team.

Change...

2008-09-25T07:36:00.003-04:00

"Write your vision in stone and draw your plans in the sand". This was a quote I heard used yesterday in a leadership talk by Arturo De la Mora, from Flamingo Road Church, as he spoke with our staff.

I have been reflecting on that quote throughout the night.

We leaders can have a clear and compelling vision, but if we are not flexible in getting it accomplished, we can bottleneck things with our stone written plan and our vision will be erased in the sand.

I have watched visions and dreams die over and over again with those who are not willing to change. Why? They stop learning and listening for better ways to get the vision accomplished. They get attached to methods and traditions and the main thing dies in their hand. I believe change is a catalyst for growth and is one of the keys in accomplishing our dreams. When a leader gets attached to a process or program the potential that they have in them starts fading fast.

Sometimes the furniture needs to be rearranged or thrown out to get better results. Are you willing to move it for the dream to be accomplished?

Processes and programs are tools and vehicles to get you to where you need to be. Do not start worshiping them. This is basically what Jesus was saying all the time to the Pharisees in His day.

What do you need to change today to accomplish the vision that God has placed in your heart? Look, listen, pray, and step out in faith... It works. Keeping the main thing, the main thing!

Thoughts about Sunday...

2008-09-22T08:24:00.002-04:00

Watching people step towards God the Father yesterday was awesome.

Life change is happening in the middle of uncertain times.

Unstable times precede Gods unbelievable power.

Watch out Internet… we are gearing up to launch a full-blown campus in the near future.

People are committing to our next step offering like crazy… God is going to do the unbelievable and history is going to be made.

My buddy, Jeff Kapusta, at Lifepoint Church baptized sixty people yesterday… That’s what I’m talking about.

Had some people from Yoville show up for church today.

My wife is the bomb, she is a true partner in ministry. Thank you Kim!

It was great to be back home with all the Barefooters today.

We are having some incredible meetings this week about our next campuses…Big changes coming our way.

Many stepped towards God yesterday at Barefoot and God ran and embraced them.

We are putting in some hardware so we can record and broadcast our services. We are asking all Barefooters to participate in this next step… It will be one to remember!

When Janice’s story was shared today at our three services, I could not hardly hold myself together… That is why we do what we do. You can check it out at www.barefoot.com towards the end of yesterdays message. It is powerful.

Helping Hands shelves will be filled next week… Thank you all for helping us make a difference in our community. Drop off you food this week and place it in the POD that is out in front of our building on Main Street.

Beach Baptisms

2008-09-17T20:40:00.001-04:00

On August 31st we baptized 112 people!!! It was an unbelievable experience!! Check out the footage from this awesome day!

A Few "UN" Thoughts...

2008-09-17T06:20:00.004-04:00

The edge and ledge is where God is at work. Times of uncertainty can make us feel uncomfortable, but it can also be where belief and faith kick in and the greatest moment of our life is about to be unleashed.

The economy is unstable, but our God is able and He is ready to do some unbelievable things if we are not unfaithful to Him.

I was thinking about the children of Israel this morning and it hit me...It was time for them to fulfill their purpose in life and they missed it. They wondered around aimlessly for 40 years because of unbelief. The walked in circles, blaming their unbelief on God and others.

However, there were two people, Joshua and Caleb who experience the greatness of life. These two refused to follow the crowd and they believed their God in unstable times. This caused me to asked this question...How about me?

Unbelief leads to unfulfilled dreams. Be strong and courageous and do not be terrified. When we believe, God will unleash his glory in and through us and we will experience unbelievable things!

Eating Frogs

2008-09-10T16:17:00.004-04:00

Today I was reading an excerpt from Brain Tracy's book "Eat That Frog" it reminded me that I have to go ahead and get the difficult things done 1st each day. When I do, I will have the energy and momentum to get everything else done that comes my way throughout the day.

I wonder how many opportunities we miss because we sit around and worry about the difficult decisions we have to make, instead of eating the frog.

I had a leader tell me this past week that the decisions we make will determine how we and others reach our potential. He also said, many of these decisions are hard to make, but go ahead and make them because it opens the door for opportunity for you and others.

Once you have prayed, processed, and sought counsel what keeps you from making the hard decisions? I think whatever that is stands in the way of us and others reaching our potential.

Some decisions are hard to make, but when we "eat the frog" we will be free to move forward in doing what we are created to do. Do you have a frog to eat? Eat it so that you and others can become all God created you to become.

112 Baptized and Exposed Pastor...

2008-08-31T23:16:00.000-04:00

Today was an awesome day at the beach. We baptized 112 people in the ocean today as we closed out our exposedpastor.com series. What a way to end a four week series. I will have to say this has been the most taxing series we have ever done, but also the most rewarding.

The Exposedpastor series has ended, but not the exposed website. We will still live stream our services each weekend, have the chat room up 24/7, and we will soon be launching our new Internet campus. We will also be doing exposed couch... with prizes... a couple of times each month. Stay tuned to www.exposedpastor.com for all the details to come.

This series is the start of some incredible ministry that is coming in the near future... Thanks to all who have joined us and helped us during this series. It has been a true blessing for us!

ExposedPastor.com

2008-07-31T11:51:00.003-04:00

Hey blog readers...

We are gearing up for exposedpastor.com ... We will have a live feed on the internet for about 4 weeks.... Most of our blogging will take place on the exposedpastor.com site for the next month... So tune in there for all the action. Thanks for visiting my blog and don't forget the big launch party for exposed pastor at 8 p.m. Sunday night. You will want to join us on the internet at exposedpastor.com . We will be giving away nice prizes throughout the party. Don't miss it!

Five days and counting down...

2008-07-28T21:46:00.004-04:00

Only five days until the big Exposed Party... At 8p.m. on Sunday night we will kick off one of the biggest parties ever. Free prizes, Great prizes on the internet, lots of food, and great games... Don't miss it, tune in to www.exposedpastor.com for all the fun. Five days and counting... that's not long! 24/7 live feed on the internet for 4 straight weeks. Hope you will join us!

Keeping Score...

2008-07-24T09:42:00.004-04:00

Keeping score is a way for us to tell how we are doing.

When we don’t have measurements, we stop making forward progress. I keep score when I play a game, I keep score with my checkbook every single month, and I measure my weight when I am on a diet or on an exercise plan.

One of the key factors in becoming better and not go backwards in our progress and plan, is to keep score. Scoring things are a way to be accountable to what we are doing in life. Our spiritual life and the ministry that we are a part of should have a scorecard.

What are some ways you keep score in the ministry that God has given to you? I’d love to hear!

This survey is for all Christ followers, not just pastors.

Survey

2008-07-21T19:29:00.001-04:00

If you would like a copy of the survey Nolan and Clay are talking about, please comment this post with your email address.

Sunday Night Wrap Up moved to Monday Night Live Feed...

2008-07-20T22:21:00.007-04:00

Today was awesome! Thanks to all who serve at Barefoot Church. We have some high capacity volunteers...I am amazed each week in seeing how many new faces are serving. Thanks to all of you!!!

We are not doing Sunday Night Wrap Up this week due to the live feed we are doing here tomorrow night. Join Nolan Knight and me, here, at claynesmith.com, tomorrow night at 7 p.m. with our live broadcast. We will be talking about our God given temperament. You will be able to chat with us as we discuss how we are wired. This should be an awesome tool in helping us learn how to live in our sweet spot and reach our full potential. Hope to see you here tomorrow night at 7p.m.

Don't Mess with the Vision...

2008-07-19T15:13:00.008-04:00

Below is an email I received today from a person who attended our church this past weekend. This is why Barefoot Church is lead the way Its lead. This is how we believe God is using the church on the planet. It's about helping people step towards our God. He desires a relationship with them.

"Hi This was my first time at barefoot church and I enjoyed the service. I rarely
attend church and at this time do not believe in God. However I was impressed with
yours , I felt very comfortable and plan to attend again."

Don't mess with the vision. This is what we are white hot about at Barefoot. Helping people step towards Christ and with Christ...Helping them reach their God given potential.

To this person who wrote this...We are passionate about you and our God is too. Thanks for the email and you are welcome anytime.

Overwhelmed...

2008-07-17T11:43:00.004-04:00

Some people are ready to quit because of burnout or because they are overwhelmed... God has given them a dream and the enemy is in the full time business of trying to snatch that dream away.

If you are overwhelmed or tired and worn out, don't miss this weekend at Barefoot Church as we continue our "Qwitter" series. God's Word has a lot to say about overcoming this overwhelmedness.

Worship...

2008-07-16T07:15:00.003-04:00

When God brought the Israelites out of bondage, He instructed them to have a feast, bring their best, their first and to remember who brought them out of the bondage. God also instructed them to pass down to the generations why they were doing what they were doing.

Wow… What incredible instructions for us to follow in our worship today. When we celebrate and worship each week, may we remember who brought us out of our sin. Give our first and best to Him and explain clearly why we do what we do.

Three keys in worship here for me… Remember – Give my 1st and best – and tell others why I do what I do.

It’s all because of JESUS!

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-07-15T09:07:00.001-04:00

I apologize for the late post. Here it is, SUNDAY NIGHT WRAP UP!

-Nick

Prayer

2008-07-11T09:09:00.004-04:00

Moses was a proactive prayer and Pharaoh was a reactive prayer. Moses was always asking God what to do next…His next step. Pharaoh was just the opposite. After something had happened, he was always reactively asking to be prayed for, so he could get relief.

I want to be like Moses…Asking God to show me what to do next. This way I’ll take the right steps. Pharaoh lived in a constant state of disobedience. Because of this, he was always taking the wrong steps and begging for God’s mercy.

“In all your ways acknowledge the Lord and He will make your paths straight.”

Are you a proactive prayer or a reactive prayer?

ExposedPastor.com

2008-07-09T08:57:00.007-04:00

They found out about me being Exposed on 8-3-08 at 8 p.m. ... Wait until you see this!

Check out www.exposedpastor.com

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-07-07T13:48:00.002-04:00

Clay NeSmith and Nolan Knight discuss leadership, management, processes, and creating an environment of sneezers.

"Qwitter" Starts this Weekend...

2008-07-03T08:47:00.003-04:00

Wanting to quit is something that most of us deal with in life at one time or another. I am so glad that some people did not quit on me before God changed my life. We never know what staying in the game can do to make a difference in our own life or someone else’s.

If you know someone that is about to quit… Get them to church this weekend. We are kicking off a new series titled “Qwitter”. I think they will be encouraged and see God do amazing things in their life!

Remember, sometimes there is a storm just before the refreshing rain… It is that way in life too… Don’t quit, the best is yet to come!

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-06-30T16:59:00.001-04:00

Heart Matters

2008-06-26T09:34:00.002-04:00

Heart is everything when it comes to a dream!

I remember playing sports growing up. I was not the best athlete in the camp, but I had a desire and a passion to play…. My heart made up for my inability! I am convinced that you can have all the talent in the world and your heart be screwed up and you will fail.

If we are going to be on a team, a part of a vision, or do something great with our life, we need to check out our heart. The question I am asking myself about everything I am doing right now is... “How is my heart?” Am I committed or am I just doing it because I can. Heart matters… Being a Christ follower is about your heart. How is yours?

Blown Away...

2008-06-25T10:00:00.003-04:00

Some of our team just got back from a Flamingo Road Church learning trip. These guys blew us away. Generosity flows through their entire team. They gave us priceless information and tools to pull off a series that we will be doing a little later in the summer. Wait until you see this!!!

Also, as we are thinking of our sphere of influence with the Good News of Jesus, they helped us see how we can maximize our resources in having greater influence. Technology is a God given tool that we are going to leverage. More on this later!

However, more than the above two things, Flamingo helped us to see how God blesses those who run after what He has put into their heart. God wants to use each and every Church in the world to help people step towards Christ and with Christ… The question is… “Will the church step out in faith to accomplish the mission that God has given?”

Here are a few character traits that run deep through a church that is doing what God has called them to do and I observed these at Flamingo while we were there:

1) Leadership
2) Management
3) Loyalty
4) Generosity
5) Love
6) Vision
7) Values
8) Commitment

A church can have all the tools, bells, and whistles in the world, but without the above character traits it will not reach its full potential. I am so glad that we got to see the heart of a God honoring church, not just the tools they use to reach people!

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-06-23T05:40:00.000-04:00

Qwitter...

2008-06-19T08:33:00.002-04:00

Qwitter is the title of the series that we will be kicking off on July the 6th.

Why Qwitter? We all want to quit sometimes in life, but many times it is for the wrong reasons… Like… fear, anger, lack of vision, lack of commitment, mistakes we have made, because we are tired, because we are jealous and the list could go on and on.
However, when we quit, we may have just missed the opportunity of a lifetime.

Life is not trouble free and we have to learn how not to quit when things seem a little sideways. There is no greater place to learn principles in helping us in “how not to quit” than the bible. The bible is full of people who had every opportunity to quit, but didn’t!!!… As we read some of their twitter stories… We will learn what they did in the face of adversity, conflict, and challenges. These principles will help us in reaching our full potential, rather than quitting and missing great opportunities.

Baptisms at the Beach...

2008-06-17T19:42:00.005-04:00

We do beach baptisms throughout the warmer months here at Barefoot. This is footage from two weeks ago... Watch, enjoy, and celebrate with us!

God said

2008-06-17T10:03:00.003-04:00

I was breezing through Genesis Chapter 1 this morning and what spoke to me over and over was these words… “And God said”. God spoke and big things happened!

God said, “Let there be light” something happened, there was light.
God said, “Let there be an expanse” something happened, there was a sky.
God said, “Let us make man in our image” something happened, there was a man and a woman created in His image.

This list could go on and on, but here’s the deal for me… When God says something, He can make it happen. When God speaks there is power behind His words. If God is saying something to me through His Word, I can believe it, trust it and bank everything I have on it. God will do what He says He will do.

I should not be asking the question “Can God?” I should be asking myself “Will I?” Will I do what He says? Will I trust what He says? Will I be what He says to be? Will I? When I respond by not just saying I will, but living out the I will, big things will happen because God said it!

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-06-16T13:31:00.000-04:00

Dad...

2008-06-13T07:52:00.004-04:00

If you love your dad or if you are a dad, you will want to be at the services early this weekend. We have something special planned for all dads and you will be glad you came.

One of the things I miss most about Father's Day this weekend... is being able to spend it with my dad. My dad went on to be with Jesus a few years ago and I still think about picking up the phone and calling him sometimes. Give those you love a hug, a call or a short visit today... You will be glad you did. I miss my dad, but I have some great memories.

My dad taught me:
How to work
How to care
How to think
Integrity
How to fish
and the list could go on and on.

What has your dad taught you? Dad's what are you teaching your children? Happy Father's Day dad!

Lunches – Leadership – and Loving People

2008-06-11T13:16:00.001-04:00

We are in a time of remodeling leadership right now at Barefoot. Not in the way of tearing everything out, but in the way of improving and restructuring some areas. I am spending lots of time having lunches (and dinners too) ---- Evaluating leadership and management ---- and loving on the people God has placed in my life.

One of the greatest things I can do as the pastor of a local church is to help people find their position on God’s team. When Christ followers find their place, they start reaching their full potential… They start hitting on all cylinders… They start having bigger dreams, and they start finding true fulfillment in life.

When people are in the right seat on the right bus… The performance rises… The people of God have joy… And the world is impacted with the name of Jesus.

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-06-09T21:46:00.002-04:00

Sorry about the wait. Here's the Sunday Night Wrap Up!

Sunday Night Wrap Up...

2008-06-09T12:44:00.003-04:00

Sunday Night Wrap Up will be up later this afternoon... We have had a few challenges this morning with ripping the video... Tune back in this afternoon to see the weekly wrap up. Thanks!!!

If dollars did not matter what would you dream about doing with your life? Dream Big!

This Weekend...

2008-06-06T07:53:00.004-04:00

This weekend we are kicking off a new series and we are teaming up with over 1000 other churches around the globe in this. "One Prayer"

This is going to be a series you do not want to miss... We are going to be challenged from some great leaders throughout the month of June. We are going to join over 700,000 other Christ followers in being an answer to Jesus' prayer in John Chap. 17... "I pray that they will all be one". It is going to be a time of growing our hearts together with other Christ followers from around the world. This is going to be a time to share our resources and make an impact in the world.

This weekend I will kick the series off with a truth that Jesus would have every church in the world to participate in. "Make us Inviting"

If you want to learn more about the series and start joining others around the world in prayer, you can do that here.

Reap what you Sow...

2008-06-05T05:38:00.003-04:00

An excerpt from The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale...

George Bernard Shaw said, "People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, they make them."

Well, it's pretty apparent, isn't it? And every person who discovered this believed (for a while) that he was the first one to work it out. We become what we think about.

Conversely, the person who has no goal, who doesn't know where he's going, and whose thoughts must therefore be thoughts of confusion, anxiety and worry - his life becomes one of frustration, fear, anxiety and worry. And if he thinks about nothing... he becomes nothing.

How does it work? Why do we become what we think about? Well, I'll tell you how it works, as far as we know. To do this, I want to tell you about a situation that parallels the human mind.

Suppose a farmer has some land, and it's good, fertile land. The land gives the farmer a choice; he may plant in that land whatever he chooses. The land doesn't care. It's up to the farmer to make the decision.

We're comparing the human mind with the land because the mind, like the land, doesn't care what you plant in it. It will return what you plant, but it doesn't care what you plant.

Now, let's say that the farmer has two seeds in his hand- one is a seed of corn, the other is nightshade, a deadly poison. He digs two little holes in the earth and he plants both seeds-one corn, the other nightshade. He covers up the holes, waters and takes care of the land...and what will happen? Invariably, the land will return what was planted.

As it's written in the Bible, "As ye sow, so shall ye reap."

Remember the land doesn't care. It will return poison in just as wonderful abundance as it will corn. So up come the two plants - one corn, one poison.

The human mind is far more fertile, far more incredible and mysterious than the land, but it works the same way. It doesn't care what we plant...success...or failure. A concrete, worthwhile goal...or confusion, misunderstanding, fear, anxiety and so on. But what we plant it must return to us.

You see, the human mind is the last great unexplored continent on earth. It contains riches beyond our wildest dreams. It will return anything we want to plant.

You can get a copy of this here...Simple Truths

Decisions...

2008-06-04T07:57:00.005-04:00

My son is getting old enough to make more decisions. He still needs direction and guidance... But he is making more and more decisions. When he was a little boy I started praying with him a prayer that I still pray with him today. I read this somewhere years ago and it has stuck with me. My prayer is that it will stick with him too.

"Lord give Cole the wisdom to do what is right, give him the courage to do it, even when it is hard."

Do you ever ask God to give you wisdom? Do you ever ask the Creator of the universe to give you the courage to make those decisions? Even when everything around you and everybody else around you is making the wrong decisions. Who guides you? What guides your steps in life? Sometimes the right steps are the hardest ones to take, but they are the most rewarding. Listen to your heart when God nudges and gather the courage to to take the step that He is asking you to take.

By the way, I am preaching to myself. I have some big steps to take. How about you?

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-06-01T20:43:00.009-04:00

Good Evening! Clay is out town this week, but the show must go on!

We had 3 great services today with our Student Pastor Chris Gastardi. He wrapped up our I Do series. We'll be kicking off One Prayer next week with over 1,200 churches worldwide!

This is a wrap up video shot on May 18th (my birthday) with Raphael and Alain from France. These guys are church planters with a lot of knowledge. Enjoy!

On the Journey...

2008-05-29T14:44:00.004-04:00

My mom had a stroke about 3 months ago. She is doing lots better and she is working hard at rehab. Today, I was in her rehab session and I am amazed at the progress she has made since the last time I was with her.

The Therapist said something to me this morning that got me thinking. She said, “Your mother is amazing to work with. She wants to improve, she wants to become better, she tries as hard as any patient I have ever worked with.” Those were encouraging words to hear as a son. My mom is on a journey and she knows it. She also knows that she has to be dedicated and willing to get better. Her attitude is amazing!

I think about her physical condition and how it applies to all our spiritual condition. We are all on a journey and our Great God wants to help us in the therapy sessions…. The question is, “Are we willing, dedicated, and is our attitude amazing?

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-05-26T17:04:00.005-04:00

This Sunday was off the chain! We married 3 couples, renewed numerous couples vows and had three great services! Here's another wrap up video!

?'S are Two Fold...

2008-05-22T13:18:00.004-04:00

I had breakfast this morning with a very influential leader. There were about 25 of us in the room and we were all there to hear from this leader. In my amazement, he did not give a lecture… He asked a lot of questions. He led by asking questions.

I went to lunch a couple of weeks ago with a very influential leader. I was there to ask him questions, but he fired off three questions to my every one. I did not know how to answer a lot of them… However, they were questions that made me think. He led by asking questions.

Here’s the deal… Leaders asked tons of questions. Asking the right people, the right questions, will get you to the right place in your growth as a person.

Who are you learning from by asking questions? Who are you leading by asking questions? Leaders learn by asking questions and leaders lead by asking questions.

9 Lessons from Abigail...

2008-05-21T09:46:00.005-04:00

As I was reading 1 Samuel Chapter 25 this morning, God taught me 9 lessons from a homemaker's life. Wow! We can learn so much from everybody... I think we get caught in a trap sometimes and think we can only learn from those who hold degrees, those who are seasoned, and those who hold high positions. God has leaders placed all around us. Who are you learning from?

The 9 things I learned from Abigail:

1) Honor goes further than selfishness.
2) Keep your cool when the heat is on.
3) God is in control of vengeance, not us.
4) God can use you. Even if you are not the top dog.
5) Never try to reason with a drunk. Wait until they are sober.
6) Have faith, not fear.
7) Go above and beyond when you give.
8) When you talk to God’s people, they will listen.
9) When you honor the King, He will honor you.

Commitment

2008-05-20T08:18:00.004-04:00

Last weekend I talked on commitment. This word is power packed... The more I reflect on it, the more God is teaching me. Do you ever get locked in on a word and ask God to teach you? I do all the time!

I noticed how Jesus and David both had a committed team. These people were wild and wooly before Jesus and David met them, but committed to what they were doing. How did David and Jesus get them to commit to the greatest cause ever? I mean, they were committed to what they were doing. Why would they ever walk away and be fully committed to something else?

Commitment is what I believe is the key to David and Jesus’ leadership. David and Jesus were both committed to:

1) Investing into committed people.
2) Empowering them to do something great with their life.
3) Unleashing them to do it.

Are you committed to seeing others become great? Are you committed to helping others reach their full God given potential?

Sunday Night Wrap Up

2008-05-19T07:11:00.003-04:00

Recovering, Rest and Ready for the Weekend...

2008-05-14T09:42:00.001-04:00

I am recovering from my surgery just fine... I should be back at it in a couple of days. Thank you for all your prayers during this time. They mean a lot to me and my family.

We love being a part of such a great church and as I rest over the next few days, I will be praying for you.

This weekend is going to be very freeing for many and I cannot wait to share with you. God is already doing some amazing work in relationships over this series.

Man, the stories I have already heard. The enemy uses against us what God meant for good. Our relationships are something God created. The enemy likes to get in the middle of relationships and really screw things up. Let’s remember, God is the source of our relationships. He is the One who will sustain them.

Sunday Night Wrap Up??

2008-05-12T10:27:00.008-04:00

This is our first ever Sunday Night "Vodcast." If you have a suggestion for what we should title this show, email us at questions@barefootcommunitychurch.org or leave me a comment!
Enjoy!

Age, Marriage, & Moms

2008-05-09T16:47:00.002-04:00

Today I am one year older... You guess how old!

I am in a special place chilling with my bride, my beloved, and my best friend... We are growing closer together and getting fueled for this weekend.

This weekend will be our first installment of "I DO?" Our series on marriage, mating, and making the best out of life... Bring someone with you to the weekend services.

Don't forget your mom this weekend... Mothers are honored this weekend, so give them a big hug. They deserve it!!!

Preparing Messages...

2008-05-07T07:38:00.004-04:00

I am working on the weekend message this morning. Lots of people have been asking me how I prepare for the weekends. This is a hard question for me to answer, because sometimes it seems kind of random to me in how I do things. I will give it a shot though...

1) I am a week of guy when I prepare for the weekend... In other words, I do not have next weeks message ready to go... I do not even have this weeks ready to go. I knew what I was preaching about this weekend about two months ago... but I do not put it together until the week of. Why? I do not really know... But I think it is because I am tweaking the message up until I walk out on stage and even on stage sometimes. This is the way I roll. My team knows the idea... Most of the time... So they are able to create sets, videos, and things to go with the message or series... But the message is put together the week of.

2) Where the big ideas come from: Lots of times the series idea flows out of my time alone with God... I am going to do a whole series later on this year based on something that jumped off the pages of scripture last week in my time alone with God... It touched me deeply... Now it works in me, so it can work through me. I will lob this out to our creative team and some pastor friends in the next few weeks and we will build a series out of it.

Sometimes I will hear other communicators say something... Then off to the races we will go with another series. Sometimes they can say one phrase and it triggers us to build a whole series.

Another way I come up with ideas... I listen to our people. This encourages me to go into God's Word and help find answers for their questions.

Sometimes I may know the big idea months in advance or even a year before we do the series.

Knowing the big idea helps me when I am reading, listening to others, and talking with people... I get all kinds of stuff for my sermons, because I know the big Idea in advance... It is like creating anything. You learn and add... learn and add... tweak... learn and add.

The hardest thing in preaching is you really never turn your mind off. It works all the time... unless you totally disengage for a few weeks. The weekend is always coming and Pastors are always thinking about ways to communicate God's Word in a way that works in the hearts of people.