en-us Pastor Mike Niva's weekly message Mike Niva Pastor Mike Niva's weekly message from City in the Desert Metro Church Weekly message given by Pastor Mike Niva at City in the Desert Metro Church http://www.cityinthedesert.org/index.php Pastor Mike Niva mike.niva@cityinthedesert.org Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 10/14/07 Should we tolerate everything and everyone, or are there limits to a tolerance which is truly virtuous? Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:00:00 PST 1:03:14 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, tolerance Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 10/21/07 Does the word religion invoke thoughts of a belief system or a way of life? Sun, 21 Oct 2007 17:00:00 PST 59:04 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 10/28/07 How can we avoid returning to the dark night of the law? Mon, 29 Oct 2007 07:00:00 PST 01:02:18 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 11/04/07 Tue, 6 Nov 2007 07:00:00 PST 01:04:01 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 11/11/07 Mon, 12 Nov 2007 13:00:00 PST 01:11:14 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 11/18/07 Mon, 19 Nov 2007 13:00:00 PST 01:02:18 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 11/25/07 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 13:30:00 PST 01:03:10 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 12/02/07 Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:00:00 PST 01:08:10 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 12/09/07 Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:00:00 PST 00:55:01 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 12/16/07 Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:10:00 PST 01:00:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 12/23/07 Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:12:00 PST 00:59:28 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 12/30/07 Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:15:00 PST 01:08:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 01/06/08 Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:17:00 PST 01:19:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 01/13/08 Mon, 21 Jan 2008 19:30:00 PST 01:07:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday morning message 01/20/08 Tue, 22 Jan 2008 06:40:00 PST 00:57:29 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sunday Morning message 02/03/08 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 07:00:00 PST 01:10:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Tikkun olam is a Hebrew phrase that means "repairing the world." The concept originated in the early rabbinic period. The expression is used in the Mishnah (oral law from the Talmud) in the phrase mip'nei tikkun ha-olam ("for the sake of the tikkun of the world") to indicate that a practice should be followed not because it is required by Biblical law, but because it helps to avoid social chaos. How does the outworking of tikkun olam apply to Christians living in today's world? Do we possess a holiness that is not "unworldly?" Mon, 11 Feb 2008 08:00:00 PST 01:11:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In order for the Church to continue being an appropriate channel for change in the earth, it must undergo periodic reformation. If the Church is to allow for the entrance of the Kingdom of God on Earth, it must constantly experience transformation through the power and grace of the King. When and if transformation ceases, reformation must come. Sun, 17 Feb 2008 18:15:00 PST 00:54:35 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva From man's beginnings it seems that we continually fall short of God's "ultimate intention" for us. Is it possible to walk in complete wholeness of spirit, soul and body? What are the necessary steps to getting there? Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:50:00 PST 01:07:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Life in its essence is spiritual. This applies to all people in all times and places. When this is ignored, life invariably becomes marred and shortsighted. The entire created world flowed from the uncreated Spirit of God. Our lives too emanated from Him and in connection to Him we comprehend our purpose, our unique place in the universe and the security there is in eternity. Sun, 02 Mar 2008 18:50:00 PST 01:10:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva "Lip Service" is defined as ; an avowel or advocasy, adherence or allegiance expressed in words but not backed by deeds, usually used with 'pay.' It has been said that the eyes are the gateway to the soul. However, the lips are often the gateway "from" the soul. The lips express speech, the expression of what is in the heart, affection, mood, and attractiveness, but what do the lips conceal? Your lips are the gateway from your heart to the Father, those you love and the world around you. Sun, 09 Mar 2008 18:50:00 PST 01:4:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The Easter season, and in particular the message of Jesus' resurrection are central to our Christianity, but what are the personal messages to each of us that Easter carries from the Father? Sun, 23 Mar 2008 14:00:00 PST 00:56:35 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva A message by Pastor San-Hoon Yoo Sun, 31 Mar 2008 16:00:00 PST 01:09:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The Father created us spirit, soul and body and intends that we function well in every area of our lives. One thing, however, is primary and that is learning to walk in a place of real connection and communion with God's Spirit. When that connection is lost or broken, its absence is evident in many ways, especially in the aberrant development of the soul. Sun, 6 Apr 2008 16:00:00 PST 00:58:43 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The ego is that part of the human psyche that constitutes the "self" or the "I." It is what gives each of us the ability to interact outside ourselves. Yet, living from the ego, i.e. an "egoic" or egocentric existence, is not only part of the curse of man's fall from grace, but actually serves as a tool to perpetuate it from generation to generation. Is there a higher way for mankind? Sun, 20 Apr 2008 17:00:00 PST 01:13:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva There are characteristics which mark both the ego-centered and spirit-centered lives. Which are the most prevalent? Looking at the world through the eyes of the unrestrained ego stands in stark contrast to a spiritual worldview. Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:00:00 PST 01:02:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva By the very definition of ego (the psychological mechanism within each of us that allows us to interact with everything outside ourselves) we know that Jesus, being the "Son of Man" had an ego, as we all do. Yet Jesus learned how to live as the "Son of God" by living a spirit-centered life, rather than an ego-centered life. How did He do it? Are we able to follow? Mon, 5 May 2008 13:00:00 PST 00:58:50 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva If the "uncreated Creator" exists, then, like an artist, he has sculpted each of us with purpose. Discovering purpose leads to passion, power and pursuit for a lifetime. Becoming sidetracked by the ego's demands, on any level, distorts the nature of God and of our destinies. Mon, 11 May 2008 14:00:00 PST 01:03:09 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva When we look into statistics on American health trends, its really no wonder that health costs are soaring. While we are quick to blame this on hospitals, lawyers, doctors and pharmaceutical companies, the problem really lies within each of us. Mon, 18 May 2008 14:00:00 PST 01:15:57 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Every religion observes certain "sacred spaces;" sanctuaries, temples, monasteries, prayer rooms, prayer gardens, etc. and they all share a genuine importance. However, in New Covenant terms, every human being is the most "sacred space" on the planet. In addition, Earth itself is a sacred space, as it was made for man by a loving Father. Becoming a truly spiritual person goes beyond the activities we usually deem as being spiritual. Reverence for our own bodies, His "temples" is hugely important in our quest to recover our identity as His children. Mon, 25 May 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:02:27 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Bodily health is greatly enhanced by proper diet, exercise and rest! Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:06:23 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Guest Missionary from Thailand - Ron Miller Sat, 09 Jun 2008 09:00:00 PST 01:01:49 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In discussing physical health, up to this point, we have only discussed the good things which need to be increased in the life in order to aid in producing a healthy life. Now, let's look at three things which can and should be decreased before they cause you permanent harm. Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:16:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva We must each choose to live a life of love or judgment. It's not possible to walk in both simultaneously. There are judgments which are valid and necessary to daily life. However, most of our judgments toward other people are based on incomplete knowledge. In other words, our judgment is fatally flawed. Accumulated pain may be the largest invisible factor of all. Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:01:28 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva When the pain of a person's life drives them to substance abuse that becomes an addiction, it becomes very difficult not to judge them. The "victim" becomes teh "victimizer" and subsequently, hee or she produces anger and hurtin those closest to them. Entire families become marred by dealing with addiction. Society in general is harmed by its effects. Sun, 06 Jul 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:14:32 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Although judging everything and everyone around us in terms of "right and wrong," "in and out," "saint or sinner," etc. seems to be "right," it is actually not only unproductive, but counter-productive. Our "judgments" do little or nothing to change others in a positive way, and what is more, the judgments we level against others, in time, will return to us. What is the appropriate lifestyle which can displace judgment and actually change the world for the better? Sun, 13 Jul 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:13:08 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva One of the ways in which judgment is manifested is in ascribing blame. Our court systems are involved in this every day, especially in the realm of "personal injury" lawsuits. Who was at fault and how much do they owe the injured party? When this type of judgment runs rampant in our own lives, it can produce a skewed perspective on life, one in which we are the victim and others are those who "owe us" for what our lives have become. Sun, 20 Jul 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:12:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva If the purpose of this life is to be found in a transformation that makes us more and more like our Father, then why not focus on that transformation, rather than wasting precious time scrutinizing and analyzing what we cannot change? Sun, 28 Jul 2008 06:30:00 PST 01:12:25 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva God's plan for Earth is that every individual might experience the magnitude and meaning of the love with which He loved the model Son (Jn. 17:26) Beyond this, the Father's desire is that the love received would become love multiplied and poured out, until all of creation experiences the healing and restorative power of unbridled love. The journey begins in you! Sun, 03 Aug 2008 06:30:00 PST 01:14:48 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The journey to a truly mature love for God and others is a lifelong process. A mature love relationship is one in which both parties contribute to the relationship and the world outside of it, relying upon the undying support of the other, and yet, not constantly "feeding" off of that support because of personal inadequacies, deficiencies, or arrogant "using." Sun, 10 Aug 2008 06:30:00 PST 01:07:50 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The New Testament's philosophy of sin and righteousness, imperfection and perfection, turns from law to love, from being "informed" to being "enlightened." Hence, John uses light and darkness to illustrate the disparity between those who love and those who hate. Becoming "Christlike" begins with the light of Christ's love, mercy and forgiveness shining within the heart of an individual, moving him or her along love's journey. Sun, 18 Aug 2008 06:30:00 PST 01:09:24 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva For every one of us, no matter what our "occupation" may be, we all tend toward being "preoccupied" with certain things. In other words, our careers, families, goals, dreams, etc. tend to be filtered through the grid of our general life outlook. What are those outlooks that militate against our ability to walk in genuine love? How do we go about changing them?  Sun, 25 Aug 2008 06:30:00 PST 01:12:56 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Among the many concepts that display contrast in focus between the Old and New Testaments, the relationship between fear and love stands out as one of the most important. The Old Testament seems to emphasize service to God based upon the fear of His displeasure. The arrival of Jesus introduces the concept of fatherly love and the loving response of sons and daughters. The concept that we most closely identify with will be the one that drives our spirituality and determines our interactions with others. Which covenant are you a part of?  Sun, 25 Aug 2008 06:30:00 PST 00:58:00 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva All people have a genuine, God-given need to love and be loved. However, most of the models of love around us in life are twisted; distorted by self-interest. Through the sacrifice of Christ, the love of the Father for all the world cuts like a knife, leaving a clear path for us to follow. True Christianity is not expressed in merely pointing the world toward Christ's love, but in becoming that love in reality. In this way, we can each say, "If you've seen me, you've seen the Father."  Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:30:00 PST 01:04:06 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva From the beginning of time, man has had a need for the emboldening power of affirmation. In terms of our humanity, that power is most freely expressed through human affection, not tainted by the complications of sexuality, control or selfish manipulation. The love of God, expressed from human to human carries power which is capable of changing the world.  Sun, 14 Sep 2008 18:00:00 PST 00:59:12 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sang Hoon Yoo Fear is one of the major strongholds in America. Fear of uncertainty, failure, loss, judgment, death, etc. Where did ‘fear’ come from? Sun, 09 Nov 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:18:04 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Bertha kaminski God designed us to receive love and to give love. Simple. Until Deception told Adam n Eve that God was NOT WILLING to share His Knowledge with them. Enter the Lie of REJECTION. Which bred FEAR—God is hiding something from me---can I really trust Him? I must take care of this delima—I must make sure I am safe. Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:00:00 PST 01:14:06 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Christianity often focuses on our love for God and our love for others, but tragically, leaves little time for self-discovery and the development of healthy self-love and self-esteem. If we are to “love our neighbors as we love ourselves,” then we are not so much limited in our love for the world by the limit of our love for God, but rather, the limit of love and respect for ourselves. Sun, 04 Jan 2009 18:00:00 PST 01:05:39 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The world around us has its own “value” system. This system is driven by concepts of success, fame, wealth, beauty and power. Do the failures, the unsuccessful, the infamous, the less than beautiful and the poor have intrinsic value? They may not when viewed through the glasses of the world’s system, but heaven’s value system is quite different. In short, whoever you are and whatever the conditions of your present situation, you are highly valued. When you learn to value yourself, you free yourself to achieve anything. Sun, 11 Jan 2009 18:00:00 PST 01:04:09 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Although the Christian view of the universe’s creation focuses on the spoken word of God; “Light, be!” it must be admitted that the universe first existed as the “thought” of God. It follows logically that if we are made “in His image,” then everything in our lives begins in the realm of our thoughts before it becomes emotion and action. Understanding our beginnings helps us to unlock our present circumstance. Sun, 18 Jan 2009 18:00:00 PST 01:09:44 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Often, the words of Christ are difficult to understand, difficult to interpret in the context of our daily lives. Among His most demanding thoughts is the call to "deny yourself, pick up your cross and follow Me." Wrongly interpreted, these words can lead to a life of self-loathing, self-doubt and confusion. When they are counterbalanced with other teachings, these words can serve to liberate us from lives of unabated selfishness and become the gateway into lives of meaningful service, self-respect, satisfaction and success. Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:00:00 PST 01:05:10 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The idea of God being “present” may invoke fear in many, if they see Him primarily as a severe and scrutinizing judge rather than a loving Father. Only as we understand the depths of His love, forgiveness and acceptance can we truly be comfortable with the idea of His constant presence. Although He sees all and knows all about us, His “mercy triumphs over judgment.” Mercy doesn’t simply leave us as we are! Sun, 01 Feb 2009 14:00:00 PST 01:09:06 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The Bible tells us that our Father is a “refuge” and a “hiding place.” There is a vast difference between hiding from God, ourselves and others and hiding “in God.” Our view of ourselves through His eyes will vastly determine which kind of “hiding” we choose to attempt to live in. Sun, 08 Feb 2009 14:00:00 PST 01:11:23 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Jesus illustrated by His life that every individual had an inherent right to dignity and self-worth. Many stories in the four Gospels illustrate this vividly. He also boldly revealed that rigid observance to religious ritual didn’t actually grant what the Father had desired. Religious ritual was a thin veneer cloaking hearts desperately in need of change. Faith, hope and love would be the benchmarks of restored human worth. Sun, 15 Feb 2009 14:00:00 PST 01:14:06 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Neither past nor future actually exist. The only moment we have to be fully alive is right now. If my “right now,” my present, is unpleasant and I can’t effectively cope with its difficulties, then life ceases to have vibrant meaning, becoming only a task, a chore, a burden to be borne. Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:16:13 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The places of worship for Israel were varied. They went from nothing, to Tabernacle, to Temple and eventually, back to nothing again. What is there to be learned for us and about us in the history of Jewish gathering places? Sun, 08 Mar 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:12:41 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Medical science has shown that the two hemispheres of the brain operate in somewhat different manners. It is widely accepted that the left brain is more given to rational thought and logic, the right brain to emotional interactions and creativity, especially of an artistic nature. People caught in either of the two extremes have difficulties in relationships, and often personal pain and problems that are daunting.  Sun, 15 Mar 2009 16:00:00 PST 00:59:56 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Christ taught that it is “out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks.” He also said that it is not external things that defile us, but those things which proceed outwardly from our own hearts. Because of this, it is imperative that we become intimately acquainted with the thought processes and tendencies of our own inward personalities, so that we can begin to change the things that produce pain, guilt, fear and a myriad of destructive behaviors. Sun, 22 Mar 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:11:34 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Most of us spend a great deal of time living in a “reactionary” way, simply responding to the actions of others, our environment, or worse yet, our own out of control thinking and emotions. In order to move from a reactive way of living to a proactive or intentional life, it is imperative that we gain real clarity concerning what or whom we are reacting to and then discover, or perhaps re-discover, how to live a more purposeful and productive life, a life lived “on purpose. Sun, 29 Mar 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:04:30 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva It is impossible to live an “intentional” life without experiencing an “attentional” life. Without focus, without sharp attention paid to our own thoughts, feelings and experiences, visions are reduced to pipe dreams. It is critical to clarify our understanding of both our assets and our liabilities. Focused awareness allows us to undo harmful patterns of thought, feeling and action, thereby freeing us to give our full energy to the moment we are in. Learning to be “fully present where you are” is no mean feat. Sun, 05 Apr 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:17:02 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Most of us spend a great deal of time living in a “reactionary” way, simply responding to the actions of others, our environment, or worse yet, our own out of control thinking and emotions. In order to move from a reactive way of living to a proactive or intentional life, it is imperative that we gain real clarity concerning what or whom we are reacting to and then discover, or perhaps re-discover, how to live a more purposeful and productive life, a life lived “on purpose. Sun, 12 Apr 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:11:16 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva “The chief end of man is to glorify God and to enjoy His presence forever.” So states the Westminster Catechism in summing up man’s purpose. However, as to the “how” of this being accomplished, the possibilities are as infinite as the diversities which exist in mankind. One thing is certain; in order to bring “glory to God in the highest,” we will each need to be able to fully commit all of our faculties to the task. Tapping human potential means not only a reconnection, but a re-direction, an “intentional” life. Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:07:45 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Christian celebration, expressed as people gather together for church services, is universally practiced across all denominational lines. Although forms may differ (content) the purpose for gathering is relatively uniform (intent). What is not common to all the various groupings is the manner in which faith celebrated in relative private is expressed in public. It is to this public expression that the Bible, especially the teachings of Christ point us and Jesus consistently directs us to look within as the only place to begin. Sun, 26 Apr 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:05:48 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva At the moment of man's creation, there was no WILL in the earth but the will of God. One moment later, the best and worst that a man could offer would be released to make decisions which would not only shape his personal world, but the world outside himself. Human will is at the core of personality and human will, on Earth, is the only thing more powerful than the will of God. This "choice" is as the will of God planned it. Coercion does not create servants, but slaves. Like Jesus, we must "decide" whom we will serve, and, like Jesus, we must come to this decision under the "grace" of God, not through either the fear of punishment or the promise of reward. This decision, made freely, is to choose God Himself. Choose wisely! Sun, 03 May 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:19:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva A joyful, confident, productive and effective life is one of constant changes and growth. Part of the "inventory" we each must take, many times on a daily basis, includes deciding what to take along with us on life's journey and what to leave behind. As we effectively leave behind dysfunctional thinking and behaviors from our own childhood, keeping the most treasured memories, traditions and child-rearing techniques, we can raise confident, accomplished children. In addition, we can "mother" the world around us in powerful ways. Sun, 10 May 2009 16:00:00 PST 00:55:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Intuition is defined as; direct perception of truth, fact, etc., independent of any reasoning process; immediate apprehension. The development and honing of intuition is a process. When intuitive leadings are combined with wisdom acquired through knowledge and experience, life can grow more adventurous and more productive every day. For the community of faith, intuition is a divine gift and its development and proper use is a sacred responsibility. Intuition leads to innovation. Innovation leads the world toward positive change. People of faith can become innovators, not mere imitators. Sun, 17 May 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:18:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Never before has the world stood in greater need of intuitive collaboration; communities flowing together in harmony and innovation, striving together to solve the world's toughest problems. While the business world, at least in the past, has been driven by greed, even this is beginning to change. The Church, possessing faith fueled by love, should stand at the top of the heap in bringing effective, positive change. Sun, 24 May 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:05:04 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost signaled the beginning of a new era on planet Earth, one which would be characterized by a localized event slowly becoming globalized throughout centuries of time, until the life-transforming power of God's Spirit reached from its inception at Jerusalem to its culmination in "the end of the earth." Remembering this global reach of the finger of God keeps us focused on being an innovative, missional people in every generation. Each generation must "hear" how it can become all things to all people in effective, redemptive and transformative ways. Sun, 31 May 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:16:18 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Intuitive skills, like any other, are developed over time. Under the caring guidance and direction of mature mentors, intuitive leaning, learning and living can become a part of our daily experience. This ability to stay more consistently connected to divine inspiration can make our lives more adventurous and productive, as we learn to listen for and be guided by sudden, dynamic impulses from "the mind of Christ." (1 Cor. 2:16) Sun, 07 Jun 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:19:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Developing a more intuitive lifestyle leads us quite naturally into a deeper communion with God, others and ourselves. Fresh insight brings a refreshed personal devotional life as we learn to harmonize the entirety of our lives with heaven's breath. Because intuitive leadings can happen at any time and at any place, communion moves from a rigid to a fluid opportunity. As we each become attuned to God, we become attuned to one another. Sun, 14 Jun 2009 16:00:00 PST 00:55:22 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:00:00 PST 00:54:54 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva We are offered the opportunity to experience unbroken communion with God, and yet, few ever experience it. Why is that? If it is God who "slips" in and out of communion with us, then there is really nothing we can do to change this up and down experience in communing with Him. However, if the inconsistency is on our end, we should examine the roadblocks within us that keep us at a distance. Sun, 28 Jun 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:20:04 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Righteousness, right-standing before the Father, come to us as a free gift. Rightly received, embraced and understood, righteousness consciousness holds the potential of changing our lives before God from a cringing, faltering and often sin or failure conscious striving to become perfect "subjects" to a king into a confident and love-energized journey toward full-fledged sonship and partnership with our Father for the salvation of the planet. Sun, 05 Jul 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:18:39 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The world is in transition. The American dream, and therefore, the average American "identity" is being challenged. We are each being invited (or urged) by the Father to transcend crass commercialism and learn to live life from the inside out. If we will but yield to what the Holy Spirit is doing, the Father will take us to a much broader place than we have previously dreamed of. We can truly become full-fledged sons and daughters in a kingdom which cannot be shaken. Thus, we will discover an identity which is unshakeable. Sun, 02 Aug 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:17:27 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva E. W. Kenyon popularized the idea of becoming "God-Inside Minded." Although God is all around us and among us, His Essence and Presence filling the universe, the wonder of the work of Christ is that it paved the way for God abiding within us. The discovery and consciousness of this fact changes everything. No longer do we need to make a "pilgrimage" to some far off place to seek God. We can become increasingly aware of and conscious of this all-powerful and all-loving God living within us, and through this growing discovery, allow Him to work through us to change the world around us. Sun, 09 Aug 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:19:55 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 16 Aug 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:18:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Subject - The Christian life is often characterized by amassing information about God, about Christ, about what the Christian life should "look" like, but this approach fails to bring about true transformation of the inner life with a corresponding Christ likeness that is genuine, consistent and lasting. Paul pointed to this lifestyle as one which would produce "perilous times" in the last days, a shallow, deceptive pseudo-Christianity. Sun, 23 Aug 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:19:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Subject - Nearly every verse in the Bible containing the phrase "end of the world" could have been much more clearly translated the "end of the age." The disparity between the images called up by these two different translations is stark. The "end of the world" implies an almost certain finality to the created world. The "end of the age" might well spell the beginning of another, just as the stone age, bronze age, iron age, industrial age, etc. have each given way to subsequent ages. Could the world see a new beginning rather than a tragic end? Sun, 30 Aug 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:13:56 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Jesus' words in John 14:9, "He who has seen Me, has seen the Father," are staggering. The four Gospels then become to us a clear revelation of the very nature of God. What is more, this nature of the Father God, revealed in the Son, conveyed by the Spirit, is meant to transform each of us into the same likeness, the same image, the same nature. This is the essence and power of genuine Christianity. Sun, 06 Sep 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:17:24 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The true objective of five-fold ministry is to heal, restore and equip each saint for an active role in the expanding Kingdom of God. These men and women are not rulers, but servants to the Body. As the Body grows in wholeness and function, it will organically reproduce and multiply itself in love throughout the world. Each member's wholeness and function is a key element to the Kingdom's global effectiveness. Sun, 20 Sep 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:04:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva As the Body of Christ is moved toward ever-greater wholeness and completeness by a leadership body committed to this task, an organic, multi-generational and exponentially growing Christianity is the likely outcome. As leaders move back toward their central purpose, the members of the body can experience the same. Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:02:25 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo What does it mean to be a Christian? Who is Jesus Christ in my life; what is his role and what does he grant me as I become a believer? What is my call and purpose in life? Being a Christian is not formulating my life according to religious system but is a life-long journey with ups and downs to follow Christ faithfully. Sun, 04 Oct 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:05:45 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:00:00 PST 00:54:54 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:06:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:11:42 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Vincent Guest Minister from Uganda Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:19:53 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 08 Nov 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:12:44 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo God is mainly presented as the Father in Heaven according to Jesus, which implies that we are children of God. What does it mean ‘being a child of God’ in this consumeristic culture today to glorify the Father on this earth? Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:06:11 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Love has been manifested through the life of Jesus Christ.  Love as compassion, power, sacrifice, and connection was illustrated.  When Jesus rose from the death, he came back to people who adored him.  What is the implication of this historic event in terms of love as connection? Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:05:43 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo We worship and serve God as the highest One but act like his love is still not big enough to fulfill our life. Is his love too small to overcome our iniquities or too big to be contained in our capacity of comprehension? What matters is not just redemption with the gift but the reception of the gift! Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:00:00 PST 01:10:07 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Certain baseline attitudes currently dominate modern culture. These attitudes, such as a critical attitude, produce "isms" (criticism) and generate more followers (critics). Although it is a rather "icky" world, we can fortunately choose our "ic." It isn't easy to arrest negative and destructive attitudes and replace them with positive ones, but the benefits to us, our families and our society are immeasurable. What goes around comes around . . . and around . . . and around . . . and around. Sun, 03 Jan 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:19:47 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In a world filled with negativity, criticism and fatalistic views of the future, cynicism abounds and there never was a time when the language of faith, hope and love were more needed in the public discourse. Jesus warned; "In the last times the love of many will wax cold." The present world circumstances challenge us in this hour to melt the icy terrain of criticism and cynicism with the love songs of a caring heavenly Father. Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:12:08 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Skepticism abounds in our world. People are skeptical about government, advertising, the future and especially the many promises of different religions. The skeptic or doubter seeks proof positive concerning the claims made by anyone. Our difficult task is to turn the skeptic into a true seeker, rather than a wallflower in the dance of life. What are the tools at our disposal? Sun, 17 Jan 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:56:20 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Most scholars agree that the tradition of mystic Christianity begins with and descends from the Gospel usually attributed to the Apostle John and the Christian community which sprang up around his viewpoint. While the synoptic (def. - taking a common view) Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke are devoted to the historical-critical method, John's Gospel is powerfully symbolic and mystical. There are key differences between the historical/critical view of Christ and the symbolic and mystical view, differences which lead us from ritual to the vibrant development and practice of faith, hope and love displayed in practical application. Sun, 24 Jan 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:56:20 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Saint Paul was the first great Christian mystic. Christian mysticism as a system, however, is derived from Neoplatonism and the mysticism of early Christian theologian Saint Augustine. In the Middle Ages (5th century to 15th century), mysticism was often associated with monasticism. Monks such as Meister Eckhart, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, Saint Francis of Assisi, and Saint John of the Cross were dominant figures in mysticism. A number of the most distinguished Christian mystics have been women, notably Saint Catherine of Siena and Saint Teresa of Avila. By its pursuit of spiritual freedom, sometimes at the expense of theological formulas and ecclesiastical discipline, mysticism may have contributed to the origin of the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. Modern mysticism finds expression in the theology of many Protestant denominations and is a salient characteristic of such sects as the Anabaptists and the Quakers, but Paul forged the first trail. Sun, 31 Jan 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:11:52 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Mystic Christians from various historical and spiritual settings describe different stages we may or may not pass through on the journey of experiencing God. Each of us could probably describe our own stages and would probably use different language to describe them. What are some of the more common experiences in stages of growth and obstacles we might encounter? How can we cultivate a heart to continue the journey? Sun, 07 Feb 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:17:52 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Since we are called to be "witnesses" (eye-witnesses) of what we have personally experienced in Christ, we must address roadblocks to our experience. This being done, we press on into a hopefully fuller experience, and consequently a larger and more powerful witness or "testimony." How can we make the communication of faith effectual on a larger scale, involving more and more of the people we encounter? Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:06:58 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The ultimate goal for the mystic Christian is transformation (inwardly) into the likeness of Christ, so that the works of Christ (outwardly) might be made known. Even from a scientific perspective, these goals not only express the heart of what motivates us as Christians, but hold keys for tapping what truly motivates much of mankind in the present generation. Is your light shining before men? Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:16:41 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Jesus challenged His disciples with these words; "Do you think the work of harvesting will not begin until the summer ends four months from now? Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest." (John 4:35 NLT) Christ's followers are exhorted in every generation to "lift up their eyes" to the harvest fields of the earth. Where are your eyes focused in this current generation? Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:12:12 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Value in life is measured on many different scales; from possessions to physical beauty, intelligence to productivity. Earth has many systems for calibrating worth. Heaven has a value system too. How do we stack up when measured by the divine and eternal standard clearly displayed by Christ? Sun, 07 Mar 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:01:10 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva We may never get the opportunity to make lasting impressions on peoples' lives if we fail to make a favorable first impression. Our ability to influence our world with Christ's Kingdom message and lifestyle will ultimately rise or fall upon our ability to make powerful and positive first impressions. How do you begin at the beginning? YOU NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION! Sun, 14 Mar 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:04:05 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In order for first impressions to give way to lasting impressions, the first impression we give must be a genuine "slice" of our true self. Otherwise, we come off as disingenuous and people are suspicious of our true motives. When you "put your best foot forward," you better have another foot to back it up. Consistently showing mercy is selfishly selfless. Although it may cost us, in the long run, it pays back great benefits. Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:14:04 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Josh McDowell wrote "Evidence That Demands a Verdict" in 1972 and the follow-up "The New Evidence That Demands A Verdict" in 1999. These books served as an apologetic for the validity of Christ's claims and the genuineness of the Bible as the Word of God. We are each challenged at a personal level not so much to prove, but rather to testify to the validity of Christ's claims. The verdict that we have reached as Christians calls for us to give evidence to those around us for our conclusions. Is there solid, convincing evidence? If so, what is it and how do we communicate it? Sun, 28 Mar 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:06:54 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Christ's resurrection from the dead trumpets unmitigated victory over man's final enemy. The last enemy, death, shall be trampled underfoot. What are the ramifications for me and those I love? What are the ramifications for my dealing with the precious lives of others? Sun, 04 Apr 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:19:49 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva There are two participants in every communication event; transmitter and receiver. There are also two parts of our communication; form and substance. In order to truly communicate substance effectively it is often imperative to alter form to suit the needs, world-view, education and experiences of the receiver. Otherwise, we may hold to form which fails to communicate substance or, worse yet, we may be so off-putting in our form that we generate or strengthen cultural bias against ourselves and the substance of our message. Sun, 11 Apr 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:08:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The law of the Kingdom of God is framed in the words; "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Inherent in this principle is the idea that we should also "speak unto others as we would have others speak unto us." How do you prefer to be spoken to; with love and respect or with disdain and disapproval, with words that lead to reconciliation and understanding, or words that stir up yet more strife and bitterness? "Life and death are in the power of the tongue. Those who love it will eat its fruit." (Prov. 18:21) Sun, 18 Apr 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:04:48 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Communication experts agree that the greater part of productive conversation is not in the act of speaking, but in the act of listening. But, how do we listen? There are five major levels of listening. All of us get stuck at the lower levels much of the time. By improving our listening skills, we can all become greater communicators, no matter who we are speaking with and no matter what our communication goals may be. Sun, 02 May 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:17:15 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Mothers are so unique that every human who enters the planet has just one. That is, unless they are adopted and are able to receive the love of a second mother who has specifically chosen them. Each Christian potentially enjoys both privileges; that of a truly unique and special mother and that of being adopted by a loving Father. Through this process, we each are offered the opportunity to become Eve to God's "last Adam." Sun, 09 May 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:56:45 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Bud Lenz Alan (Bud) and Laura Lenz have opened their hearts and their home to receive abandoned, orphaned and abused children, giving them a second chance to grow up in an atmosphere filled with unconditional love, compassion and acceptance – a refuge. Sun, 16 May 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:59:17 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva So many things are being shaken in current world culture that it is hard to keep up. From the ecology of the planet to massive monetary structures threatening national and global economies, everything around us is suffering the tremors of impending catastrophe. From the very personal level to the worldwide level, present systems are in flux. What will be the outcome? What stability will remain? God's Word tells us what is truly permanent and constantly stresses the importance of us anchoring our lives to the eternal rather than the temporary. Now is a good time to consider making that change. We can rebuild from what remains! Sun, 23 May 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:07:09 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva What is the central pursuit of the Christian faith? Is it heaven, success, or knowledge? Is it an escape from punishment and a promise of reward? Or, is God Himself to be our passionate pursuit? How do you find Him? Where do you look for Him? John tells us that God is love. Paul tells us to pursue love and we will run headlong into God. What are you looking for in your Christianity? Seek love and you will find God. Sun, 06 Jun 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:10:09 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The real calling of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers is to stay true to the task of "equipping the saints for the work of the ministry." (Eph. 4:12) Equipping focuses on the preparedness, wholeness and empowerment of the individual first, before becoming overly concerned with training (for tasks) or teaching (related to content). In order for the Church to truly function as an empowered organization, its priorities might well need to be turned right-side-up, placing people before all else, in order to achieve success. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:07:39 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Spiritual fatherlessness was a tremendous problem in the life of the developing Early Church. It is still a problem today, in the home, the church, the school and every other human institution. Why are there so many teachers, coaches, motivational speakers, but not many fathers? Biological fatherhood may be only chemical, evolutionarily driven, lust-based, self-centered, but true fatherhood is a choice; a choice of a life of sacrificial loving and giving. From Genesis to Revelation the principle of legacy passed on by fathers is revealed. Sun, 20 Jun 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:59:20 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Spiritual fatherlessness was a tremendous problem in the life of the developing Early Church. It is still a problem today, in the home, the church, the school and every other human institution. Why are there so many teachers, coaches, motivational speakers, but not many fathers? Biological fatherhood may be only chemical, evolutionarily driven, lust-based, self-centered, but true fatherhood is a choice; a choice of a life of sacrificial loving and giving. From Genesis to Revelation the principle of legacy passed on by fathers is revealed. Sun, 27 Jun 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:08:28 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva As the Kingdom of heaven continues to emerge in the earth, the enthusiasm (entheos/god inside) quality of individuals and congregations should be on the increase, keeping pace with Kingdom expansion. However, we often find the converse to be true. Why is that and how can it be reversed? How can we hold our ground and take new ground enthusiastically while so many pressures seem to be crushing the life from us? Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:18:39 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva We have already learned in subsequent lessons that the word enthusiasm has its roots in the word "entheos," (having God inside). Although this God-inside mindedness frequently carries us through life's difficulties alone, there are many times when we are hungering and thirsting or even perishing for the lack of human encouragement in our endeavors, spiritual or otherwise. What does God's Word have to say about our need for mutual affirmation? Not only do we need God inside, but also others alongside, in order to flourish. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:17:35 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Joel -Uganda Sun, 18 Jul 2010 16:00:00 PST 00:46:14 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Although the Kingdom of God is slowly emerging upon the earth, it is as yet invisible to multitudes. The faith of the faithful is intended to give substance (foundation) to things that are hoped for and evidence (corroboration) of the existence and effects of this unseen Kingdom. However, only when faith ceases to be a noun and becomes a verb is the world in general able to see it. People around us cannot see our interior system of belief unless it is matched by "corresponding action." (James 2:26) It is the goodness of God that leads men to repentance. (Romans 2:4). How will men see the goodness of God? Sun, 25 Jul 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:14:16 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Sanghoon Yoo Sun, 01 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:12:50 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Only the unconditional love of God (agape) is the proper starting point for a life of influential and world-changing good deeds. Works that spring from other interior/ulterior motives may appear powerful on the surface, but, according to Paul count for "nothing." The passionate pursuit of the love of God must frame all else in a Kingdom conceived by, filled with and ruled by the unconditional love of the Father. Got love? Sun, 08 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:06:16 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Current divorce statistics alone in the U.S. are enough to tell us that a love and commitment that was once based upon covenant has degraded into a love that lasts as long as it is convenient. About 1 in 2 marriages now end in divorce and that statistic is fairly consistent for non-Christians, Christians and even those in Christian ministry. When the going gets tough, those who love convenience "get going." Sun, 15 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:02:33 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Current divorce statistics alone in the U.S. are enough to tell us that a love and commitment that was once based upon covenant has degraded into a love that lasts as long as it is convenient. About 1 in 2 marriages now end in divorce and that statistic is fairly consistent for non-Christians, Christians and even those in Christian ministry. When the going gets tough, those who love convenience "get going." Sun, 22 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:11:22 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva According to New Testament principles, only love fulfills the intent of law. In other words, the law's righteous requirements can never be fulfilled by focusing on law, but only by pursuing and following after the "God kind of love." Are you a legalist or a lover? Christ fulfilled the law through love which was selfless, sacrificial and extravagant. To what lengths will you love in order to follow Him? Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:12:47 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The 613 laws of Judaism, referred to as Mitzvot, are intended to cover every major area of business, relationship, honor to God, etc. Jesus reduced the essence or intent of these 613 laws to a dual principle; "Love God with heart, soul, mind and strength and your neighbor as yourself." He stated that these two principles comprise the heart of Jewish Law as well as the heart of the Prophets. In John 15, He raises the bar of love to this height; "Love one another as I have loved you." This is His "new commandment" to His disciples. All of Law is fulfilled in this one Messianic edict. Love is not a fleeting feeling, but a point of obedience to Christ. Love transcends sentimentality. Love is redemptive action springing from a willingness to be like Him. Sun, 05 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:16:12 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva The idea that we as mere humans could be changed internally by a love that is truly divine in nature and then moved forward to shower this love on others may seem an incredibly daunting challenge. Yet, Jesus moves us toward this very goal when He states; "Be perfect, even as your heavenly Father is perfect." The intent of the promises of God is that we might become "partakers of the Divine nature." (2 Pet. 1:4) The polar opposite of this nature is defined as "the corruption that is in the world through lust." Divine love is lust's antidote. We may know a great deal about God (knowledge puffs up) and yet not know God (love edifies). Sun, 12 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:04:30 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In the entire world, there is no subject more sung about, painted, sculpted, filmed, written and reached for then the often elusive concept of genuine and enduring love. The words of Jesus concerning love's highest ideals challenge us, enlighten us and may even surprise us in their eternal simplicity. Got love? Sun, 19 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:18:20 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Much is said and taught in Christian circles about friendship with God and with one another. Much less is said in some circles about friendships with those outside of the church. Sadly, nearly nothing is taught concerning friendship with oneself, yet we probably all have some sense that we can be our own best friend or our own worst enemy. Which would God have you to be? Which one are you in reality? Sun, 26 Aug 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:10:18 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva persist/persisting, especially in spite of opposition, obstacles, discouragement, etc.; persevering; lasting or enduring tenaciously, continuing, continued or permanent. There is an expression that Torah scholars use: “Ain Davar HaOmed Lifnei HaRatzon” - "Nothing stands before genuine will power.” At the Tower of Babel, God said, "Now nothing shall be unreachable to them." (The human will can say yes or no to God.) Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:15:15 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva In endurance sports, particularly cycling and running, hitting the wall or the bonk describes a condition caused by the depletion of glycogen stores in the liver and muscles, which manifests itself by precipitous fatigue and loss of energy. Milder instances can be remedied by brief rest and the ingestion of food or drinks containing carbohydrates. The condition can usually be avoided by ensuring that glycogen levels are high when the exercise begins, maintaining glycogen levels during exercise by eating or drinking carbohydrate-rich substances, or by reducing exercise intensity. What do we do when we "hit the wall" or experience "the bonk" emotionally, mentally and spiritually? How do we regain strength to finish the race of life successfully? Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:08:23 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Life, in the end, is not defined by fainting, falling and failing, but by what we glean from these experiences and what we do afterward. There is a saying, "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Here is my addendum to the saying, "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you weaker, if your attitude is not right." We will all faint, fall and fail at times in this life. What will we do with the experiences we are given? Although it may not feel like it, we always maintain the power of choice. (Josh. 24:15) choose/bachar/decide . . this day! Sun, 24 Oct 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:14:48 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion Pastor Mike Niva Perhaps there are really only two kinds of people in the world; trail-gazers and trailblazers. While some are content to travel the beaten path and see what thousands of others have seen before, others constantly beat new paths in order to stay passionate about life and its possibilities. They are not nearly as enthralled with what has been seen and experienced, as they are by what remains to be seen and is yet to be experienced. They forge (often at great peril) new paths for scores of others to follow. Which one was Jesus; pioneer or settler? More importantly, which one are you and are you willing to change and boldly face your fears in order to create a new future for yourself, your family and many others? The choice is yours! Sun, 31 Oct 2010 16:00:00 PST 01:16:31 CIDMC, Mike, Niva, Religion