tag:davidbracken.com,2005:/blogs/progress?p=7Progress2018-05-14T14:38:04-05:00David Brackenfalsetag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18062013-01-06T16:36:12-06:002021-06-23T05:10:20-05:00Faith Like a ChildI was reminded of something while on tour in Vancouver. I had the opportunity to sing in a Sunday morning service at a church that specializes in reaching out to people with mental and physical disabilities. Taking part in their service, seeing how they worship, getting an understanding of what Jesus means to them absolutely floored me! These are people that most of society would say "aren't all there", but let me just say that these folks are more "there" than I am sometimes. These people are the very personification of having faith like a child. Sometimes in my walk with God, I have doubts. Sometimes I ask too many questions and over-complicate things. Jesus called us to have faith like a child because a child doesn't ask all these questions, a child simply believes. And I think that's a lesson I needed to learn that morning - to just simply believe. <br>
Blessings!<br>
d.<br><br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18072012-02-03T06:10:05-06:002018-04-02T14:04:01-05:00Don't Be AfraidHere's something from the DBM Desk (which you are always welcome to comment on, on the site)<br>
There are a lot of things in life that could potentially be pretty scary and cause us to fear. Whether they are big things or little things, the spirit of fear has been allowed to run rampant far too long. Noah's favourite cartoon sings a song in one of their earlier episodes that says, "God is bigger than the boogie man and He's watching out for you and me". <br>
We have a very simple reminder where it's written, "God has not given you a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind". I know it's not always easy, but next time you're starting to get scared about something, just remember that God cares for us and is watching out for us!<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17992012-01-10T16:44:02-06:002020-09-24T14:05:37-05:00The PlanI don't want to get all long winded (as is sometimes the case), but I do want to leave you with a thought. Did you know that God has a plan for your life? You may be living it now, or not. But just know that He cares for you, He's got great things for you, and He's waiting for you to ask for them!<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.<br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18052011-06-18T15:04:18-05:002018-05-02T09:50:57-05:00Who Says?I've got something that's weighing heavily on my heart. In the last week, I've heard news of two different girls who attempted to take their own lives - one succeeded. Has the world lost it's hope? Are things so destitute that we feel the only way is to turn the lights out? Maybe no one has told these people that there is One Hope - that we are loved by the Creator of the Universe. I just recently wrote a song called, "Who Says?". In this song, the question is asked: "Who says you're beautiful? Who says you're valuable? Who tells you it all will be alright? So how would you know?" Let me reassure you. God made each and every one of us special. We're all beautiful in His eyes. We're all worth something! If no one has ever told you that, let it be known to you right now that you are special, and God loves you so much!<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18022011-03-14T00:25:31-05:002018-05-02T09:50:35-05:00What's the Harm in Asking?I've heard it said, "You have not, because you ask not". A good principle that I think we should really try to remember. In the case of this quote, the writer is talking about asking God. So true! How can we expect to receive if we don't ask for it? At this point, in dealing with Noah (my 8 month old son) his "asking" consists of crying his little head off, simply because he doesn't know how to communicate. Admittedly, I am guilty of acting like my son sometimes. I let myself stew, then get all worked up, then I'll cry and scream and get all in a huff with God, wondering why He hasn't come to help me yet. Then, in that way only God can, He reminds me of that familiar verse from James, "You have not, because you ask not". Once I've finished with my 1st grade temper tantrum, I remember that I haven't asked Him for a single thing up to the point of my ranting. Why should He help me if I don't communicate what I need? In all aspects of life, don't forget to ask. It doesn't hurt when you do, but sometimes it hurts when you don't. What's the harm in asking?<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18002010-11-10T14:24:21-06:002020-12-07T16:14:01-06:00Watch and LearnNormally when someone says, "Watch and Learn", they generally are trying to portray that they are better than you and are about to school you on something. But today, I'm going to tell you to watch and learn, not because I want to show you something, but because there might be something out there that we're missing. Maybe there's someone in your world that just needs a shoulder to lean on or an ear to listen. We may never find out if we don't open our eyes and take a look. Watch and learn. You could even save a life.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18042010-09-22T05:31:34-05:002020-09-10T13:35:05-05:002 + 2I've been in contact with a lot of different people lately, and some of them claim to be Athiest, or say they don't believe in God. And there may even be some people reading this who feel the same way, but let me ask you a question - What is 2 + 2? History and mathematics have proved the fact that the answer is 4. But what if someone said that they think the answer is 5, and they really, really wanted it to be 5. Would that change the fact? What if thousands of people all around the world all got together and said that the answer is 5, would anything be any different. In their own minds they could have certainly convinced themselves that the answer is 5. But the answer hasn't changed - it really is 4. God is real whether people choose to acknowledge Him or not. Even if thousands and thousands of people around the world say that they don't believe in God, He is still there whether they believe in Him or not. The answer hasn't changed - He really is God.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18032010-07-20T19:52:07-05:002010-07-20T19:52:07-05:00Time<p>The gift of life is an amazing thing! And time is so precious. The question is - what are we going to do with the time we're given? If I could encourage you with something today, it would be to live life everyday for God. In your workplace, your school, your home, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.</p>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/18012010-03-14T18:10:00-05:002010-03-14T18:10:00-05:00MusicLately, in concerts, I have been encouraging those in attendance to be careful what they listen to. And most times I get asked what the big deal is. I've been listening to a lot of different types of music, and really it makes me kind of sad. I've been hearing the lyrics to many of these so called "rock stars" and frankly, I just feel sorry for them. Think about it, from what I hear, among all their many problems, these guys don't know any nice girls. All they can sing about is either how horrible these girls are to them, or how trampy the girls can be. And the saddest part of all of this is that the people who are barraged with this on a daily basis often times will sing along with these very sad, and almost pathetic songs. Most times people will just say "I like the beat" or "the tune is catchy, but I don't listen to the words" yet they know every word by heart, and sing them. Once something is committed to memory, it is in your heart. The trouble with this is that young kids are subjected to these songs too. They're going to listen to them on the radio and hear people sing along with them and think that everything that is happening in these songs is normal. Boys are going to grow up thinking that all girls are going to be as they are portrayed in these songs, and girls will be because they want to be "cool and beautiful", like the songs are supposedly saying. All I'm getting at here is, be careful what you listen to. Why? Because the words in some of these songs affect you and those around you more than you know. Please be careful. What do you want in YOUR heart?<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17982009-10-18T18:24:11-05:002009-10-18T18:24:11-05:00EverydayFor most of us, from time to time, we may feel as though our lives get a little repetative, a little boring, and seem to feel like they're in a little bit of a rut. Let me tell you that this is normal. But in these situations, let us remember that every day is a gift. Maybe tomorrow, when you wake up, take just a moment to recognize the Giver of each day. It doesn't have to be anything official or drawn out, all you have to say is, "God, thank you for today". And remember, the majority of the time your day-to-day life is only as exciting as you let it be. "Lord, you have my life Everyday"<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.<br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17972009-09-02T18:40:02-05:002021-01-04T23:38:54-06:00Don't Give Up!If I could encourage you with one thing this month, let it be this - don't give up! No matter what it may be, don't give up! Some people try out for the team, and don't make it, and get discouraged - don't give up! Some people try something new, like the guitar or piano but just can't seem to get the hang of it - don't give up! Some people have tests and quizzes that they study for, but just don't make the grade - don't give up! Probably the biggest one, some people are interested and want to know more about God, but there is so much negativity out there and it seems to bring people down - don't give up! Don't let what other people say keep you from learning and growing towards God. Let's not allow a busy lifestyle to get in the way either. Draw closer to Him, and don't give up!<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17962009-04-09T06:28:47-05:002009-04-09T06:28:47-05:00EasterChocolate eggs and clucking bunnies, delicious ham and fluffy mashed potatoes, searching for colourful eggs in cleverly hidden places - all great things, but what about Jesus? Between all the excitement, dinners, and egg hunts happening this weekend, please do one thing - Take the time to remember what Jesus did on the cross 2000 years ago. He died and arose from the grave for every one of us, so that we can be forgiven of the wrong things we do. All we have to do is accept it. It really is that simple.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17942009-03-20T05:55:20-05:002009-03-20T05:55:20-05:00Good SamaritanI want to quickly tell you about an experience we just had recently. We had just finished at a Sunday service, and drove out of the parking lot. We looked down at the gauge and noticed that we were almost out of gas. Knowing full well that we had no money at all, we pulled into a nearby parking lot. There we sat, not knowing what to do, almost out of gas, and needing to get home. So we prayed. A man came out of a nearby building, looked at us, nodded his head toward us and came over to the window of our car. As I rolled down the window he extended his arm, put some money in my hand and walked away. No name, no forwarding address, not even a word. Wow! We were in awe, but you know what? We really shouldn't be so surprised. God is awesome!<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17952009-02-24T13:01:09-06:002009-02-24T13:01:09-06:00ConsistancyThe world is going crazy! People's finances are up, then they're down. People's morals are increasingly in decline. What one person says is often the opposite of what they do. In a world of uncertainty, we as followers of God need to be the consistancy that people can depend on. In other words, we need to constantly be praying and asking God to help us to be the shred of consistancy in this wavering world. In order to salt and light unto this world, we have to remain constant. I'm the first one to tell you that we can not do this on our own. We need God. Simple as that. This world needs God. In order for our testimonies to remain in an uncomprimising state, we need to have His unfaltering support. Reach out. Take His hand. Allow Him to lead you and be your guide. On our own we're all topsy-turvy - but He IS constant! Grab hold.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17522009-01-06T05:25:02-06:002009-01-06T05:25:02-06:00You're Fired!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 12px; ">I heard on the radio that a woman in Florida was fired from her job for saying "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays". What does that say about North America? Jesus is getting pushed out of government, Jesus is getting pushed out of schools, and now Christ is getting jilted out of His own birthday celebration. On a completely different note, getting fired for saying Merry Christmas seems a little extreme. What's next? They're going to fire Santa Claus because he flies around saying "Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas!!" instead of "Ho Ho Ho! Happy Holidays!"... Come on. This little rant has a purpose. Christ IS Christmas. Now that we are into 2009 we have an entire year to plan for the next holiday season. Let's remember next time we get into December that you can't have a holiday season without Christmas and you can't have Christmas without Christ. We can make the difference.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.</span><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17932008-12-18T12:05:08-06:002008-12-18T12:05:08-06:00Happy Birthday!In one week, when you are gathered with your families, friends, or whoever you celebrate with, I want you to think of something. Take a present on your lap and think of who's birthday it is. There's nothing wrong with the giving and receiving of gifts, but just remember that it is Jesus' day, and if anyone should be getting a gift, it's Him. The best part is that you don't have to spend a pile of money, or take hours trying to wrap a box all nice, all you have to do is give Him your heart. For Jesus, you love is the best birthday gift in the world.<br>
Merry Christmas!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17902008-12-05T17:59:33-06:002008-12-05T17:59:33-06:00PaintI try not to get too political, but something must be said to tie into my later point. The way I see this issue with Canada's Prime Minister and the coalition is very simple. Let me paint a picture...<br>
Someone asks you to pick a colour for the wall. And no matter what that decision is, it is YOUR decision. Once that decision is reached, the wall will stay this colour for the next four years. You decide on blue, because you really really like it, it's your favourite, and you don't think that wall should be any other colour. So, according to your decision, the wall is painted blue. A short time later, you see people at your wall with cans of paint saying that they are going to repaint the wall with red, and orange, and a different colour blue than your choice. Wouldn't you feel like asking the question, "why ask me in the first place what colour I wanted?" "Wasn't this decision mine?" "Why paint it all these different colours when this red and that orange really don't mix all that well, and this other blue is just going to try to run away from the wall altogether in a month!?!?" Bottom line is, Canada voted, it was our choice, we made it, suck it up.<br>
It makes me very happy to know that God gives us the same free will to make our choices in life. However, if you haven't elected to make Jesus the Lord of your life today, your own personal President or Prime Minister, I would encourage you that there is no better time than right now. If we wait for that "perfect" time when we feel as though we are good enough, or clean enough for Jesus, it'll never happen. Ask Him into your heart, He'll take care of the rest.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17642008-10-20T18:32:58-05:002008-10-20T18:32:58-05:00PoliticiansElections are happening this fall. In Canada, they have already happened. In the US, they are happening very soon. These political minds go hard at it for months preparing, gathering votes, gaining popularity (in some cases, losing it), and essentially doing everything they can to show you they are the best leader for your nation. Whether your elected officials are already in place, or are yet to be determined, these are the people who have been placed in charge to care for your nation. Please do not forget that they are people just like anyone else and they need prayer just like everyone else. Please don't forget to pray for your politicians. Whether the guy you were cheering for got in, or the guy you really can't stand got in, pray for them anyway, they need it.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17922008-09-18T06:30:59-05:002008-09-18T06:30:59-05:00TimeWho has time any more? We are so busy with school, work, friends, family, traffic, sports, lessons, cleaning, mowing, raking, baking, forsaking, the list goes on and on... Who has time any more?! With all the things that we have in our lives that keep us from taking a moment to enjoy the day... Who has time any more!?! When it gets to the point when we see someone, and ask them how they're doing and don't stick around to see how they are <i>really</i> doing aside from "fine" or "okay" because we're too busy... Who has time any more?!?! No matter how busy you are, God always has time. Talk, listen, He's there for you.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.<br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17912008-08-27T01:56:58-05:002008-08-27T01:56:58-05:00Lights, Thunder, Action!It's 5:30 in the morning while I'm writing this, why am I up? I just witnessed the most amazing light show I've seen in my lifetime. The thunder was so loud, that I could feel it. The lightning was so bright that it made me squint, and at times I simply had to close my eyes from the brightness. The water coming off the side of my house sounded like a flowing river. Where most times I would just see these things as an annoyance disrupting my sleep - this time I stopped, looked, and listened. If Leonardo Da Vinci set up an eisel on my porch, or if Mozart set up his orchestra in my basement, would I be sleeping? Here is one of God's amazing works in my back yard, and I was in bed?! So that's why it's 5:30 in the morning and I'm writing this, the storm has moved on now, but I didn't want to let the beauty of one of God's great works pass me by. It may not come to you early in the morning, it might be at work or at school, or while your on your way to have supper or to a practice. God's works are everywhere, I think we just need to stop, look, and appreciate.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17632008-07-07T04:56:32-05:002008-07-07T04:56:32-05:00Yard WorkI've been out on my lawn doing some yard work lately and I will forever find it amazing how God makes it all work. You plant something, give it water and sunlight, and it grows. Through the simplicity of it, there's still that complex fact to grasp. What makes it grow? Sure there's the fact that you took the time to plant something, and that it is getting the essential nutrients from the Sun and soil, and it receives it's moisture from your sprinkler, but really what makes it grow? There's more to it than just "I plant it and it grows". There's more! God gave life to every flower, every tree, every single blade of grass. He is the one that causes everything to grow. What about us? Maybe we should grab some of what God has for us, so that we can grow too.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17892008-06-08T07:29:53-05:002008-06-08T07:29:53-05:00SuchThis one, I want you to think about. I titled this email "stores and such". I've mentioned the stores, now for the such. The word "such" by itself doesn't really seem like anything at all. The word has many meanings, and one in particular is to describe the extreme. This word can be found wherever Jesus goes, because Jesus IS the extreme. Everything He is is such - so much. Such love, so much greatness, He's an extreme God! Do you see Him as such?<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17882008-05-08T12:53:05-05:002008-05-08T12:53:05-05:00SummerWe hope you have a wonderful Summer holiday coming up and remember as you are outside in the beauty of nature that it is not beautiful by accident. It was created as a thing of beauty, and we need to stop for a moment to thank the God who ochestrated this exquisite symphony.<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.<br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17872008-03-18T07:06:05-05:002008-03-18T07:06:05-05:00Let it goOn my way to the airport yesterday, I witnessed something that I thought to be pretty ridiculous. At a gas station in Los Angeles there was a man waiting for a gas pump. As soon as that pump cleared, another man pulled in - before the man who was waiting could get to the pump. The first man flew out of his car in a rage, threw the second man's car door open and started screaming at him about how long he had been waiting for that pump. The second man tried to reason with the first man by saying that he would only be a couple minutes if the first man would leave him alone. The first man screamed some more, slammed the car door in the second man's face, and just stood there. Not moving, not going back to his car, not letting the second man fill his vehicle, he just stood there preventing the second man from leaving his car. I filled my car, paid, and when I left they were still arguing over this pump. In the time it took them to argue back and forth about this gas pump, both of them could have gassed up and left. Pretty ridiculous, eh? And yet, all too familiar. Sometimes in the church, fighting over the trivial things keeps us from filling up and moving on to do God's work. What would it really take to just let it go? Not that much... let it go. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d. <br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17462008-03-04T03:04:20-06:002008-03-04T03:04:20-06:00Renewed PurposeLast weekend, I received a renewed sense of purpose for this ministry. And even for myself. To make a long story short, I was invited to go along to try out for Canadian Idol, and didn't make it past the second preliminary round. I was given some "constructive" criticism that I didn't really feel was accurate. Needless to say, I let it get me when I really shouldn't have. That same night, I had a concert with a youth group in Winnipeg. I have to say, it was one of my best. During the auditions, I felt very out of my element - during the concert, it was ALL element!! God renewed in me my purpose. My place is not on a TV show that more often than not seeks to glorify one's self. My place is with my guitar, telling people about the love of Jesus. It's where I belong. And I am so thankful for that! <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17472008-03-04T02:08:05-06:002008-03-04T02:08:05-06:00ThanksWith so many things we have to be excited about, we can't forget to thank God for everything He is doing in and through us. He is the Reason we get up in the morning, the One we live for every day, and the One we pray to in our beds at night. We know we wouldn't be able to do one single thing without Him. Thank You God!!!! Have you thanked Him lately for the good things He has done for you? <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17862008-01-25T03:14:17-06:002008-01-25T03:14:17-06:00PurposeEach one of us has a purpose. For me, God has laid it upon my heart to go as far as I can with my guitar and sing and play my music for whomever will hear it. For some, your gift may not be in music. Your gift could be hospitality, your gift could be that you are a skilled listener, you could be great at encouraging and talking to people. Or you may have the gift of giving hugs that melt icebergs. Whatever the gift is that God has instilled in you, whatever purpose He has given you, I encourage you to use it for Him. Don't let it go to waste! God is waiting for you to LET Him use those gifts. So let go, you won't be disappointed. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17852008-01-11T04:04:24-06:002008-01-11T04:04:24-06:00Why Pray?You may be asking yourself, "Why pray?" You wonder what could possibly come out of praying. I know some people don't pray because it makes them feel funny and that they're just talking to themselves. Let me assure you, whether you believe in God or not, He's still there and He's still listening. He wants so much to hear you pray and just talk to Him. Maybe the question shouldn't be "why pray?", but "what have I got to lose by praying?" Now is a better time than any, give God a call. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17752007-12-22T03:44:38-06:002020-09-30T11:42:01-05:00BirthdayOne thing we really need to remember is Who's birthday we are really celebrating at Christmas, and that the only birthday gift He wants is for us to love Him and love others. Let's give Jesus His birthday present this year. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17842007-12-14T09:08:09-06:002007-12-14T09:08:09-06:00Jesus... end of storyI'm feeling a definite chill in the air. Yes, it's because I'm in Manitoba, but that's not the only reason. I just recently watched "Santa Clause 3" - the Christmas movie with Tim Allen and Martin Short. A good movie with a good point. I'll try not to ruin it for those who haven't seen it yet. But the idea is that Martin Short plays Jack Frost who is tired of the way Christmas is run by Santa (Tim Allen) and tries to take over Christmas and make it all about the money. Sadly, this isn't too far from the truth. There's a chill in the air! "Jack Frost" has already taken over Christmas in a number of ways. With all the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season we all find ourselves being overwhelmed with parties and decorations and dinners and food and all the things that are nice, but really what is the real reason we celebrate Christmas? Jesus... end of story. I actually encountered a person who had never ever heard the nativity story... ever! What does that say about the world we live in? Do you sometimes forget that it's really not about us? I know I do. It's time to focus and tell those people who maybe have never heard it before. Jesus... tell the story. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17832007-11-19T04:49:37-06:002007-11-19T04:49:37-06:00Work"See what happens when you work?!" The trouble is in my line of work there will be times where I go a month without actually sitting at my desk and putting in the work. With international gigs, travel does not permit me much time to sit and focus on the task at hand. Because of this, concerts do not come as easily as I would like them to, or even expect them to. Sometimes I even get a little worried when I don't see a full tour schedule in front of me, but God and I have a little running joke going on between us. When I finally get the chance to sit down and put some time in, God is there. It never fails that when I sit down at my computer and begin making calls and sending emails regarding future concerts, it really doesn't take long before I get a confirmation or two. Then God pipes up and out comes the ever familiar line, "See what happens when you work?!" It makes me smile. Because at times I think I should be getting something for nothing. That's not how this life works. Seldom do things come for free. My encouragement to you (and myself as well) is do the work, use your time, and make things happen. I truly believe you will find that if you put in the effort, at the end of the day you will have so much to show for it. See what happens when you work. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17802007-10-02T21:44:35-05:002020-07-24T07:07:20-05:00FeedbackI think sometimes we all need a little feedback. It's difficult to know how we're doing, or to know the right path we're supposed to choose if we don't get some feedback from our Father God. Often times we wish that He would send a rainbow when we do good and strike us with lightning when we do bad, just so that we are 100% certain of what He wants for us. If it were that easy, I don't think this world would be in the state it is now. If it were that easy, everyone would know Him. If it were that easy, there wouldn't be much of a choice - the choice we make to follow Jesus. We maybe shouldn't look for the rainbows and lightning bolts so much as just sitting back, turning off the TV or ipod, and just listening for that sweet voice inside or reading His word. So the next time you want a little feedback, don't be afraid to sit and tell Him you're waiting for Him. What are you waiting for? :) <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17822007-08-14T13:30:34-05:002007-08-14T13:30:34-05:00He's Got Your BackI'm not sure if you know this but, God's got your back. He's there for you. No matter the situation, no matter the time of day, He will never leave you or forsake you. Driving back to Manitoba from Alberta, just outside Regina, we discovered once again how He looks after us. A car was drifting into the middle of the highway, coming toward us, with no idea of where he was. At the last minute I saw that this car was about to his us. Jerking out of the way, we just missed the oncoming vehicle, but were swerving out of control. After what seemed like minutes, the car regained control and resumed its course down the highway. I know that if it were my hands alone on that wheel, we may not be where we are today. Every step of the way, He is watching, helping, loving, caring, and wanting to be the One to help you too. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17812007-07-19T21:34:38-05:002007-07-19T21:34:38-05:00In LoveNow then, I'm so in love! In concert I have sung and talked about a wonderful young lady who means so much to me, but that's not what I'm talking about at this point. As strong as my love is for my Sam, I'm talking about being in love with my Creator and His creation. Many times I have heard it said from different people that they are into Jesus but can't stand the Church, or as one person said, "I love Christ, I just hate Christians". To be perfectly honest, that simply cannot be. Christ has called us to love. And I know first hand how easy it is to fall into hate, but I found myself saying this prayer through my tears, "God, help me to love the ones I really want to hate" I knew at that time I couldn't do it by myself. Hate is a human emotion that all fall prey to, but with God's help, we can learn to love the ones we want to hate. We can be so in love with our Creator AND His creation - eachother. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17432007-06-13T06:25:54-05:002007-06-13T06:25:54-05:00It's A New DayIt's true what they say... it IS a new day! I woke up this morning and looked out my window to watch the beautiful sunrise, and as always, I was in awe. Every day, it can seem as though it's the same thing - the sun rises and it sets - but God makes everything new everyday. In the first song off the album "Journey to Eternity" I talk about not getting in a rut and about living our lives everyday. I say, "I love the way You allow me to die to me, You have my life everyday". Every single day is new, and every single day we have been given a choice. We can either live every day for ourselves, or we can live every day for the One who gave this day to us, the One who created that beautiful sunrise, the One who has invited us to wake up because it IS a new day. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17792007-05-10T11:45:33-05:002007-05-10T11:45:33-05:00Keep it simpleKeep it simple. Have you ever prayed? Maybe you never have. Maybe you've never thought about it. Maybe you don't know how or even why. Let me tell you, keep it simple. When you pray, it doesn't need to sound like you're quoting Shakespreare, and it doesn't need to go on for hours and hours. The best part is, you don't have to talk in any other way than the way you already talk - He understands you. God's not impressed by fancy words and speeches, He loves it when people pray from their heart. Now you might ask why. "Why should I pray?" Really, you don't need a reason to pray other than God really wants to talk with you. Keep it simple, be yourself, and you'll find that deep down YOU really want to talk with Him. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17502007-04-16T07:48:38-05:002007-04-16T07:48:38-05:00Worship"I'm coming back to the heart of worship"... words that have been sung by many people in worship services all across this country, this continent, this whole world. What is the heart of worship? The next line in that song says "where it's all about You, it's all about You Jesus". Worship is honoring Him with the gifts He has given you. Sometimes I feel like I have used the gifts He has given me for my own purpose. I am guilty of taking the abilities and claiming them for myself, not by saying that I'm so good because I worked hard at it, but by NOT saying at every opportunity that this gift was given to my by God the Father. It's not what I said, it's what I didn't say. This is my prayer, "Lord God, I'm sorry for misusing the gifts You have given me. I pray You would take me out of the mud, cleanse me, and use me for YOUR purpose, not mine. Lead me, guide me, take me to a place where it's all about You, the Giver of all gifts. In Your name, Jesus. Amen." If you have a gift that you've been given, and you know you aren't using it to fully glorify the Giver of the gift, I very much hope you prayed that prayer with me. Let us all use the gifts we've been given, and give the credit where credit is due. <br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17782007-04-03T09:26:40-05:002007-04-03T09:26:40-05:00Salty Enough?Recently, I have been working part-time (in between touring) at Boston Pizza as a server. I am very thankful for this opportunity to meet new people and bring Jesus into the work place. It's another reminder to me that each and every one of us are called to spread the Word to this world. The Bible calls us "salt & light", but I think that sometimes this phrase ends up a little cliche, and we really don't "get it" to it's true meaning. Let's take salt for instance, when someone wants their food to taste that much better, often times they will reach for the salt. In the same way, people want to enhance the flavour of their lives. Knowing they need something more - they reach out. Who better than the Salt of the Earth to pique their spiritual tastebuds? As God's Children, we have the flavour people need to make their lives complete. And when they have had their portion of Salt they'll be pretty thirsty, and so we point them to Wellspring - Jesus. From Whom comes the Lasting Water, that with one drink they will NEVER thirst again! <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17772007-03-07T04:53:57-06:002007-03-07T04:53:57-06:00Anniversary - Thank youGod is amazing!!!! He is opening door after door for David Bracken Ministries. As the ministry has grown over the past year, I have seen so much happen. There has been many opportunities for growth, and the ministry has had its share of challenges. But through everything, the high times and low, we have kept our eyes focused. Back when I left my job to start DBM, I felt so at ease about it. Though I had my naysayers, that's for sure, and even today I have people telling me I can't do it, but there isn't a doubt in my mind that I am doing what I have been called to do. My dad, whom I love very much, was very worried about me to begin with. He wasn't sure if it was a good idea to charge off with no security and do this. I told him this, "Dad, when Jesus was walking on water and called Peter out of the boat to walk with him, did Peter keep one foot in the boat and try to paddle his way over to Jesus? No, he got out of the boat and started walking. And as long as he kept his eyes focused on Jesus, he didn't fall." Certainly, there were waves crashing around him, there was the chance he might drown. But as long as his eyes were fixed on Jesus, he didn't just stay above the water, he walked on it. My dad is one of my biggest supporters. I know that I owe everything to God, but I also know that God has us show gratitude to those who help us along the way. My father and mother have been a big blessing to me, and I know I wouldn't have been able to minister through DBM this past year without them. Dad, mom, thank you. Happy Anniversary DBM!!!! <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17762007-02-10T17:18:51-06:002007-02-10T17:18:51-06:00Learn to LaughFor those who don't know, when I am on tour often I get put up for the night by a family from the church. I greatly appreciate all the folks who help out by opening their homes to me while I am away from my home. Tonight, I'm staying with a kind, loving family in Ontario. They have welcomed my into their home, and given me a place to stay. The house was all locked up for the evening, and I needed my clipboard from my car. I quickly grabbed my keys, dashed out the door in my pajamas, grabbed my clipboard and ran back to the front door. What I didn't realize is that the knob on the door was locked... I stood and knocked for some time, but it was no use. No one could hear me. So, I hopped in my car and sped off to the church I had just performed at in hopes that someone was still there. Thankfully, they were. I walked in, in my pjs, with quite the pathetic look on my face, and pathetic story to match of how I locked myself out of my billet's house. The folks at the church quickly called, and told the folks at the house the story. What's the point, Dave? The point is that sometimes we take life way too seriously. The point is that we spend way too much time feeling sorry for ourselves. The point is we get embarrassed way too easily. The point is LIFE IS FUNNY, LAUGH IT UP!!!!! Laughter does good like a medicine. So, get out there and take your meds!!!!!!!! <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17742007-01-06T15:20:21-06:002007-01-06T15:20:21-06:00New Year's Resolutions?I'm sure a lot of you have made your new year's resolutions, and I don't even want to know how many have already broken them. Instead of wasting you time on resolutions that you're more than likely bound to break, let's start a new tradition. Let's start making our new year's commitment. With a resolution, you are accountable to one person... you. And if you want to let you slide, then you aren't going to stop you because you want you to do whatever it is that you are trying to keep you from doing... did I get that right? :) If instead, you decide to take you out to the accountability equation and commit these things to God. For example, a good new year's commitment would be, "God, I commit that I am going to read the Bible more" or "Lord, I commit that I am going to pray for the ones that hate me" or "God, I commit to stop being such a pig and eating everything I see" (that one's for me). Instead of just making empty resolutions, try making a real commitment to God. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17732006-12-24T04:23:36-06:002006-12-24T04:23:36-06:00BirthdayThe other day, at the restaurant where Samantha works there was a grandpa and his grandson. The man's grandson was sulking a little bit. "What's the matter?" he said, "aren't you excited for Christmas?" <br>
"Of course," replied the grandson, "but there's not a lot of presents under the tree for me." <br>
The grandpa smiled and sat back. He looked down at his grandson and asked him, "Do you get presents on your birthday?" <br>
"Sure I do," the grandson returned, "lots of presents!" <br>
"Oh yes, you do. But son, who's birthday is it coming up?" Grandpa asked. <br>
The grandson thought for a minute, "It's Jesus' birthday!" <br>
The Grandpa sat back and stated confidently with a smile, "Well then, if it's not YOUR birthday, why should you be worried about how many presents YOU are getting?" <br>
The grandson understood and his attitude changed. <br>
I don't think I really need to explain this any further... Who's birthday is it? What can we give Him? Start with the time of day to acknowledge and remember Him, it's a good first step. <br>
Blessings! <br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17722006-11-27T07:47:02-06:002006-11-27T07:47:02-06:00CreditFor anyone who has seen me in concert, I love to end the evening off with a few simple words and a simple chorus. The few simple words are as follows - "I would not be able to do one single thing without Jesus in my life." I would not be able to sing one note or play one chord if it weren't for God helping me, equipping me, enabling me to do everything He wants me to do. Philippians 3:14 says that with God all things are possible. What it says to me is that <u>without</u> God <u>nothing</u> is possible. God is the one that makes everything possible for me to do what <strong><u>He</u></strong> wants me to do. To go out and sing and speak and touch lives is all possible <em>only</em> because I would not be able to do one single thing without Jesus in my life, and I <em>have</em> Jesus in my life. The chorus is my way of giving credit where credit is due... <br><em>Praise God from whom all blessings flow <br>
Praise Him all creatures here below <br>
Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts <br>
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost <br>
Amen. <br></em>Blessings! <br>
d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17712006-11-14T05:46:35-06:002006-11-14T05:46:35-06:00The ChurchI would just like to remind everyone that we are the church. When we go out to our jobs or our schools, are we acting as the church? Do we conduct ourselves in a way that is right, or do we live Monday through Saturday like everyone else out there - putting a little angel mask on Sunday morning. I don't want to get into that rut. I want to live every single day acting the same way I would when I go to church, because I AM the church. You ARE the church! Why are we "the church"? People call church "the house of God". Jesus lives in my heart. Therefore, I am the house of God. I am the church. So are you. Are you living the same Monday to Saturday that you do on Sunday?<br>
Blessings!<br>
d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17702006-10-16T06:08:27-05:002006-10-16T06:08:27-05:00Take a bath, Part 2If you were to go down and read my entry called "Take a Bath? Why?", you would read about how you don't need to clean up your life in order to come to Jesus. BUT, that doesn't mean you can turn to God and live like Hell. When you believe in God and follow the ways of Jesus, you are to be set apart. Set apart from the way everyone else "does their thing". I said that Jesus is the shower that washes our sins away. Once you've had that shower, you have a choice. Are you going to go diving face first into the next big puddle of mud you come across, or are you going to try to stay out of that mud? Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave so that the shower is always running when we need it, but it's not there just so that we can do whatever we want to do, and then take a shower to cleanse our conscience. All I'm saying is that we need to be set apart, so stay out of the mud, would ya? <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17692006-09-29T05:20:52-05:002021-12-29T11:14:06-06:00Bless His NameIf you've read the adventures of David and Mark, you've seen that there was a lot going on in Ontario. Some good, some bad. It brings me back to those three little words in 1st Thessalonians that I love so much. Those three little words are ones that I will bring with me, no matter what. Words that will be in my heart through good times and bad. A popular worship song by Matt Redman fits perfectly with this. "Blessed Be Your Name" we sing. When we're found in the dessert place AND in the land that is plentiful. It goes the same, either way. We are to be praising the Name of the LORD at all times, and like those three little words tell us, "Be joyful always". Sometimes it's hard, but God always finds a way through for you. It makes the journey to eternity a whole lot easier when you have joy. <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17682006-09-13T09:42:44-05:002006-09-13T09:42:44-05:00Love - no matter what!Some of you may have been on the site recently and seen a few entries on my guestbook from another fellow with my same name. For whatever reason, he feels it necessary to make belittling comments filled with profanity and finish by saying that he can't believe someone with his name is going around spreading lies. What he claims to be lies is the very foundation I live my life on - the Good News of Jesus Christ. The best things I can do for this fellow is pray. I have deleted his comments and added my own. One comment is a prayer. I have to continue to remind myself - God wants us to show love to those who persecute us. So, if you could continue to pray for David. Whoever he is, wherever he is, may God bless him, touch him, and guide him to the truth. <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17672006-08-29T13:46:14-05:002006-08-29T13:46:14-05:00Take a bath? Why?One time a friend came to me and said that they wanted to accept Jesus as their saviour, but they couldn't possibly do it at that moment in their life. There was too much bad stuff that they couldn't accept that God would love them for who they were and said they needed to clean up their life first. I then asked them if they needed to take a bath before they went into the shower. Think about that for a minute. We don't have to clean up our lives before we live for God. Jesus is the One who cleanses us, so why then would we ever think we have to clean the junk out of our lives in order to come to Jesus? We don't need to go take a bath because Jesus is the shower that washed our sins away. <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17662006-08-06T18:19:04-05:002006-08-06T18:19:04-05:00Why are you doing this again?!Last time, I talked about the ever popular verse, "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (which can be found in the DBM Desk section at www.davidbracken.com). There is another side to it. In Psalm 37 it says, "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." This isn't a golden ticket to whatever you want. Trust me. What these verses say is the first thing you have to do is to SEEK GOD. When you search for His Will in your life, then His Will become yours. When your spirit is in line with what God's desires for your life are, THEN He will give them to you. But if my heart's desires are not of God's nature, who am I to think God would give them to me?! THAT is why I am doing what I'm doing. This is God's will for my life. I always thought I was going to be an actor. But when I got my heart in line with God, He showed me His will for me was in music. Now I do this full-time because the desires in my heart for music were placed there by God. Do you know what His will for your life is? Go ahead, ask Him. <br>Blessings! <br>d. <br><br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17652006-07-23T06:01:04-05:002006-07-23T06:01:04-05:00Why are you doing this?My ministry has been challenged. I was told that I am doing all of this just so I can be rich and famous and hog all the glory for myself. I'm here to say that is not true! I know that God has a plan and a purpose for my life. I know He has great things for me. I also know that if I tried to do it all by myself, I would fail miserably. If I were seeking fame and glory, trust me, I would have tried the mainstream market. There is a lot more money there. I have decided to seek God. And God has given me the desire of my heart. I have always wanted to be a full-time musician, and now I have that. But not because I was seeking it for myself. I was seeking God, and now He has given this to me - an abundant life filled with music. Seek first God and agree with Him, and He will give you the desires of your heart! I'll talk more on this next time, because there is another side to this. <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17572006-07-02T18:20:43-05:002006-07-02T18:20:43-05:00Free!I am free!! We live in a country where there are many freedoms and liberties. We have the freedom to believe and exercise what we choose to be right. Sometimes I think I might take that for granted. How often in a day does someone in India, China, or Africa get tortured or put to death because they believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ - The True and Living God? And I have the audacity to complain if someone makes fun of me because I'm a Christian?! I can't take toss that freedom by the wayside! <br>I live in Canada, and I am free to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. I am free. Are you? <br>Blessings! <br>d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17622006-06-25T11:42:58-05:002006-06-25T11:42:58-05:00Are you doing anything today?It's not too late!!! If any of you were considering going on summer mission trips or being a "home missionary" at a summer camp or the like, please don't hesitate any longer. It's never too late to give a helping hand. Each one of us have gifts and talents. Some people might have the talent of cooking, some building, some just being a servant. Will you use the talents the LORD has given to you, or will you bury them in the sand? <br>Blessings! <br>d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17612006-06-11T13:44:51-05:002006-06-11T13:44:51-05:00Just for youLast night, I took a walk in my old hometown of Newton, MB. I was astonished and amazed once again. It seems that God is in the business of never ceasing to amaze. It was an absolutely beautiful evening, the sky was clear, the stars were shining brightly and everywhere I looked there were fireflies. I don't know if anyone else was taking a walk in that part of town at any time that night, but it felt like God orchestrated that whole symphony of beauty just for one little person to look at and admire. If I could encourage you to do anything today, it would be to take notice. There might be something out there that could pass by and you are the only one who might see it. Take notice of the things that God creates, and acknowledge that He does it just for you to acknowledge Him. <br>Blessings! <br>d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17602006-05-23T04:51:18-05:002006-05-23T04:51:18-05:00Blessings!If I would have a short encouragement for you today, it would be to greet one another with a blessing! I've recently been fiddling with a <a href="http://www.myspace.com/davidbrackenmusic">myspace site</a>, gathering friends and contacts, etc. I have found that whenever I send out a message to a fellow artist or a new friend that I feel so much better about it when I give them a blessing along with the standard "Thanks for the add!". <br>May the LORD God be with you today. May you find new truths in the everyday life. May He fill you with strength, courage, and endurance for your day. Mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance! <br>Blessings! <br>d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17592006-05-01T05:22:34-05:002006-05-01T05:22:34-05:00FavourWe have favour!! But when we search for favour, where are we searching? I've heard it said that we are to be "in the world, but not of the world". When we go out into the world to preach the good news of Jesus in every way we know how, GOD will grant us favour. We may not necessarily get favour from the world. We may find that we are coming up against opposition. The word says that we are to consider it pure joy <strong>when</strong> we face trials of many kinds, and that the world will hate us because we are connected to Jesus. So when you are seaching for favour seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Seek out God's favour!! When you have His favour, you will do an exceedingly abundant amount more because you're doing it for His favour, not for personal gain or the favour of man. Live your life as unto the LORD.<br>Blessings!<br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17582006-04-26T07:32:25-05:002021-03-10T08:58:58-06:00TrustWho do you trust? If you are a trusting person, that's not a bad thing. I am too. But if that's the case, you'll find as you go along that you will put your ultimate trust in people and things which prove to be simply unreliable. Why? I don't know about you, but for me in this world as a human, I do wrong on a daily basis. And if you were to put your ultimate trust in me, I would end up - at some point - letting you down. I am a flawed being. Where can you turn in a world full of people who are just going to let you down? I can tell you right now that if you put your trust in the LORD, He will never, ever let you down. <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17562006-04-18T10:28:47-05:002006-04-18T10:28:47-05:00Notice anything?I want to say, when was the last time you relaxed and took a look outside? Do you see what God has created for you? Every tiny piece of nature that you see when you look outside was created by God for you. If I could encourage you to do something in this next week it would be this, take a walk. Go outside and maybe notice something in nature that you've never noticed before. And when you see it, think about how skilled the Artist is who made that single blade of grass. How beautiful His creation!! <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17552006-04-12T05:13:17-05:002006-04-12T05:13:17-05:00Patience Part 2... sort of.Do you sit back patiently enough to enjoy life? I understand that we are all busy people, but I think sometimes we need to appreciate the calm, quiet times we are given. Ecclesiates 8:15 says, "I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun." Last night, Samantha and I practiced this. We took our supper outside and watched the sunset. There in the quiet, I looked at the beautiful sunset, I looked at my Sam, and God said to me, "You see what I have given you." Maybe you should take a moment to sit back and enjoy life, and maybe you will discover what God has given.... just for you! <br>Blessings! <br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17542006-04-02T12:29:14-05:002006-04-02T12:29:14-05:00PatienceHold on! Don't be in such a rush. Sometimes I think in our fast paced world, we don't take the opportunity to enjoy the life we have been given. It seems it's just go go go go go go go go die. I realize that we all have a plan and a purpose in our lives, and I understand that we need to get out there and make a difference. That's all good! In fact, that is what I am doing on tour right now. I am out here to make a difference. But while you're out there making a difference, are you doing it in a rush so that you can move on to the next thing, or are you taking the proper time to make sure that you get the job done? Then you can move on. Don't panic, relax. And enjoy life. I will go more on this in the next one and give you a good quote to go along with it. <br>Blessings!<br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17532006-03-27T08:37:21-06:002006-03-27T08:37:21-06:00HappinessToday I would like to encourage you all to be happy. I mean genuinely happy. Even if you are going through something really bad. I encourage you to read Habakkuk 3:17-19. Things seemed to be pretty bad - destitute - yet Habakkuk was rejoicing. If I leave you with something today, it's this - joy is a choice! If you choose to be a grump, then you will be. But if you choose to be happy, no matter what your circumstances are, then I guarentee your joy will spread like wildfire. <br><br>Blessings! <br>d. <br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17452006-03-20T05:11:29-06:002021-02-09T09:09:34-06:00100%If I could just give you one quick encouragement today, it would be this: If God asks you to do something, give it your all. If you're not giving it 100%, then you're not fully doing what God has asked you to do. If you are given a task, a dream, a vision from God - act on it, and as James' son Cody says - give'r fudge!! .... mmmm fudge...<br>Blessings!<br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17512006-03-13T14:39:18-06:002006-03-13T14:39:18-06:00Prosperity?Often times I hear people talking about God and prosperity. Which is fine, but unfortunately there seems to be a rut happening. Sadly, the Jabez craze from a couple years back got a lot of people, myself included, into the whole "bless ME indeed" cycle. What I DON'T hear often enough is people asking that God might prosper another's heart, mind, or spirit. So, if you haven't heard someone pray this over you for a long time, please accept this prayer I have for you, my brothers and sisters in Christ...<br>"Father God,<br>Bless my friends indeed!!<br>Grant them strength for their day, rest for their minds, refuge for their hearts, and peace for their spirits.<br>Pour upon them your gifts. Your love, Your joy. Your goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self-control, kindness, patience, and peace.<br>Thank you God for your provision for my friends.<br>Bless them indeed!<br>In the name above all names, then name of Jesus Christ,<br>Amen!<br>David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17492006-03-04T12:22:57-06:002006-03-04T12:22:57-06:00ThankfulnessAre you thankful? I mean truly thankful for what you have? I don't mean the "things" you have, I mean your family, friends, job, faith, security, love, anything, EVERYTHING!! Are you thankful? If not, please GET THANKFUL!! You have so much to be thankful for.<br>Today, I want to challenge everyone to say "thank you" as many times as you see someone doing something for you. They could be filling your gas tank. They could be making your supper for you when you come home. They could be ringing your groceries through. Sure some of them are getting paid to do it, and some don't expect it, but if you were in the same boat dealing with grumpy people day in and day out, would you want someone to sincerely thank you? <br>Are you thankful? In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 it says, "give thanks is all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." ALL circumstances! I know there are some people, and you might be one of them, who feel in despair. You think you have nothing to be thankful for. You might think that the whole world is against you. But it's not. Believe me, it's not. There is a God in Heaven who loves you. He created this world for you, and sent His only son Jesus to die and be risen from the dead to atone for the mistakes of this world. If you were the only person in the whole world, Jesus would have still come, just for you, so that you might live. Are you thankful? I know that makes me feel pretty thankful!<br>Blessings!<br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17482006-02-22T06:29:49-06:002006-02-22T06:29:49-06:00PrayerGood things are happening, and it's all very encouraging. I just want to thank everyone who has been coming to my site. I've been seeing the site traffic and noticed that I have people logging in from all over the world. Drop me a line and let me know where you're from. I'd love to hear from you!<br>Today I want to encourage everyone to say a prayer.<br>Think of your best friend... what makes this person your best friend? What do you do with them, do you talk with them? If you never talked with your best friend, would you still be friends? God wants to be your friend. He wants that relationship with you. But if you don't communicate with Him, how can you expect to be His friend? Tonight, as you go to sleep, say a prayer. It doesn't matter how technical it is. It doesn't matter how many thees and thous are in it (if any). Just talk to God like you would a friend. Even if for a minute, or less. Just let Him know that you're there, and that you appreciate the earth He created for you.<br>Blessings!<br>d.David Brackentag:davidbracken.com,2005:Post/17442006-02-06T10:52:06-06:002006-02-06T10:52:06-06:00ProgressI want to take the time to let you know about the progress of the upcoming release, Journey to Eternity. Producer James Forsman and I (well, mostly James) have been working really hard to get this done by our deadline in March. We are expecting to have approximately 10 - 12 tracks on the disc, and as of right now we have about 6 done. We're half way there, and going strong. In the next week or so, we should be selecting a single to release to radio. I will make that selection available (at least a clip) for download when the selection is made.<br>I want to take a minute and tell you about the title, "Journey to Eternity". This is still a tentative title, but I feel very strongly about it. If you've heard much of the Bible, you might know the verse that refers to living life as running a race. You could also see life as a journey. There are going to be things in life that you come across - love, feelings of rejection, encouragement, doubt - and all these things are scattered along your journey. The songs on this upcoming CD deal with all of these things. <br>There will be times when you love, times when you praise, and times when you wonder if God is even listening to you. One way or another, you are going to come to the end of your journey. Might you keep your eye on The Prize on your journey to eternity.<br>Blessings!<br>d.David Bracken