Out of the Ordinary

I just love the first really cold day of Fall.  This time of year is awesome, but then again I normally feel that way about every season as it comes!
Enough of that- Wednesday night was great!  Thank you all who came.  I taught and we spoke about breaking out of the ordinary.  We spoke of how the Power of the Cross conquered not only the world in us, but what the world says of us.  We discussed how our thoughts aren't like God's thoughts and we need the Holy Spirit to transform our thought pattern.  It was an eye opener for me also.  Each day when I encounter situations, I am trying to take time and ask the Holy Spirit what he says about it.  Whether it is a decision to be made, or a feeling rises in me, I ask why.  It has been revealing.  I encourage you to try to make God not only part of everyday, but part of every moment.  He wants that relationship with you.  He wants you totally dependant on him.  What better to be dependant on?
Also, we challenged you guys to step out of the role of the "typical teenager".  We challenged you to Rise Up and do something amazing for Christ.  You are empowered by the Holy Spirit- the outcome is endless if you agree with him and give it your all.  Shane has set forth a challenge for me and him as a couple to live differently after watching the Todd White video Wednesday.  We are choosing to try to "Love the Hell" out of those around us.  Less about our rights and all about showing God's love to the people around us.  Remember---we don't wrestle w/flesh and blood, but with spiritual forces of darkness(shortened a little--check it out Ephesians 6:12).  In the end whether you had the right to do a certain thing will matter little to them coming to know your Creator God. 
I hope you all have a great day and look forward to seeing you at the Harvest Festival.  I need some moles--so all that can show up, come!!  If not, then see you Sunday. You guys are awesome and it is a privilege for us to work with you!
God bless,
Melissa
P.s.  I would like to share the link to the video we showed, but cant figure out how--sooo if you want to see it go to Youtube and search Todd White Rise Up .