Perspective

05.26.08

Have you ever noticed how the view from the beach is always better than from the water? This happens especially when I’m surfing a beachbreak. The tide will change and the peak I’m surfing turns to mush and it isn’t until I paddle in that I see the peak down the beach that was horrible earlier is now firing.

God’s view is the beach view, he sees the whole picture. In 2 Corinthians 4:18 Paul says, “while we look not at the things which are seen , but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” It’s easy to get wrapped up in things that seem so important moment to moment but in the light of eternity (God's view) lack any significance. Jim Elliot once said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."

This week, take some time in the Word and ask God to reveal His eternal perspective to you, He can’t wait to share it with you!

Who do you surf for?

Guest Author: Daniel Felton

Romans 12:16

05.19.08

Have you ever noticed how we establish the “pecking order” based on ourselves? What I mean is this; if I’m surfing at home – locals rule, if I’m on a trip – out of towners should be treated nicely, if I rip – then kooks should beat it, but, if I’m a beginner (and we all were at some point) then there should be room for everyone. See what I mean? We establish things based on ourselves. Now, I’m not saying that we shouldn’t instruct and encourage people in the unwritten laws of surfing, but I’m talking about how we put ourselves above others. I’m not gonna talk to that kid – he’s too young. I’m not going surfing with that crew – people might think we’re friends. Well check out this verse in four different versions. Romans 12:16

16Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
KJV

Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
The Message

16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
NIV

16 Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
New Living Translation

Based on what God says in this verse, what do you think He wants you to do this week in/out of the water?

Who do you surf for?

Love your Enemies

05.12.08

Matt 5:43 "You've heard it said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.."

We all share waves with our friends but that guy that's dropping in on everyone needs to be taught a lesson. In fact, I'm going to sit right on top of him and snake him every chance I get for the good of all the other people in the water. At the end of the day I convince myself that I'm a lot like Robin Hood - I take waves from the bad guy and give to the groms. And surfers worldwide agree that it's the right thing to do.

Jesus goes on in Matt 5 to say that even the pagans treat their friends well but He is calling us to more. All people agree that we should love those that love us. But, Jesus says to act in love toward those that hate us. What He doesn't say is that whenever we do this great stories will unfold about how the person met us on the beach and in tears said they were sorry and offer to buy ice cream for all the gremmies. What He does say is that our Father in Heaven will see what we do. In the end that's all that matters and that is a true measurement of who we really surf for.

Honestly, Who do you surf for?

Commitment

05.05.08

We have all heard the interviews with the wild men that do tow surfing. Do you see the seriousness in their faces as they discuss the commitment to each other? "We go out prepared to lay our lives down for each other." Wow, that's commitment.

Sometimes I hear Christians say that they are stoked on Jesus but not so keen on other Christians. Is that really an option? You see, when those tow surfers go out to do battle with supersized bombs they can't be divided. God as a perfect Dad says that He doesn't want His children hating on each other. In Romans 12:10 it says, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."

When Jesus came, were we so cool that we deserved the love He showed us? No, just the opposite. We were His enemy but He honored us above Himself. He put our needs above His own and in so doing, showed that He was DEVOTED to us. What about you? I didn't say, do other Christians get on your nerves? I didn't say, do you disagree with other followers of Jesus? Those things aren't the top priority. God said, be devoted to others that are followers of Jesus and honor them above yourself.

Why not think about a way to honor your Heavenly Dad by honoring His children this week.

Who do you surf for?

Following Jesus

04.28.08

I was walking down a trail with a guy following me, or so I thought. Once we reached the break, I headed north and he headed south. I discovered that there’s a big difference between following and just walking the same direction for a time.

In John 6 a similar event occurs. There are huge crowds “following” Jesus. But they eventually get tired of his teaching and they’re no longer entertained by his show. So, they leave. Jesus has an interesting response. Rather than chase after them and beg them to stay He turns to those that stuck around and asks, “Do you want to leave too?” Their response is, where else would we go, who else has the answers of life. In effect they declare that they are “following” Jesus while the others just happened to be walking the same direction for a time.

In your life, is Jesus conveniently going the same way that you are? Does He just happen to be meeting your needs or are you following HIM? Sometimes He leads us down trails that are sketchy and difficult. However, He’s there to calm us and take care of the details. The true test is not what we do when Jesus leads us to go where we want to go but what occurs when He leads us to think, say, do or go where we don’t want to. Are you “following” Jesus today?

Who do you surf for?

Life's Purpose

04.21.08

Sitting on the sand in the morning, looking out at the waves on the West side of Kauai, the sun felt warm on my back. I was waiting for a ride to go and help demolish a house. Kind of a “Day Labor” thing. It was so beautiful I should have been stoked, but I wasn't. I was stressed out by one simple question, “What is the purpose of my life?”

Have you ever felt the weight of that question in your life? Since then I have found the answer to that question and the joy that comes from knowing it. Sometimes it seems like it’s too simple an answer and there’s no doubt that the specifics play out differently in each individual’s life. But, it’s the answer God gives us. It’s found in Romans 8:29. Verse 28 says all things work together for good and if we stop there we start imagining all the things that could mean; new board, perfect waves, sweet tan (maybe not, you get the point). But we have to read on. Verse 29 defines what good is and declares God’s purpose in the life of every born again person. “For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son…” God’s purpose for you is to be like Jesus in character and priorities.

Are you alive to the fact that God will use the struggles and victories of today to mold you into the image of Jesus? Are you allowing God to do this work or fighting against it? Why not take some time today to enjoy the freedom of knowing that God is in control and is working out His plan of changing you. That’s why the book of James says we can be stoked even in tough times. Of course, this only applies to those that are born again. Have you been born again? If not, check out the “Who is Jesus” section of our web page and let God work a bigger purpose in your life.

Who do you surf for?

Our Refuge and Strength

04.14.08

Psalm 46 is probably most noted for verse 10, which states, “Be still and know that I am God;” a simple yet powerful reminder that He is God and we are not. I’m reminded of the song by Matt Redman, “You are God in heaven and here am I on earth, so I’ll let my words be few…” What I have to think, say or do doesn’t compare to what God thinks, says or does.

Yet the Psalm begins with another great reminder in verse 1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” I’ve been in trouble many times in my life; with my parents, my teachers, my friends, and even my wife. We can all get caught up in stressing, defending or even condemning ourselves and forget God is right there offering help and hope. He is our Refuge, a place of protection and provision. He is our Strength, the ability to lift or carry a heavy load and resist a powerful enemy. He is our Help, the One who comes alongside to rescue or encourage us to keep going. Finally, He is very present and always near, always willing, always available!

These verses remind us that even if our ‘trouble’ or problems ever get too large, God can still handle it! Think about that the next time you’re caught in the impact zone of a 15’ close out set!

Who do you surf for?

Guest Author Bruce Baumgartner

Calvary Chapel Kauai

Being Plugged In

04.07.08

I got out of the water today and my cell was dead. I needed to check my messages and make some calls on the drive home but, “no can do.” It’s funny that when you forget to plug the phone in to recharge it can't do anything.

Jesus said that we are like that after we have been born again. In fact, in John 15 He says that if we don’t stay plugged into Him we can do “nothing.” Whether we are ministering at our local church, serving in Christian Surfers or involved in some other great outreach, it doesn't matter. Jesus said that the first priority is to stay plugged into Him and give Him time to recharge our batteries (then do all the other stuff). In other words, if it's not God’s power and love flowing through us then what we are doing is nothing. The only way to experience that power and love is by regularly (daily) plugging into Him, just as a cell phone only has power when it’s regularly charged. Its batteries are useless unless they have been plugged in.

Why not take some time today, sit down with your Heavenly Dad and let Him fill you with His love and perspective. Take a few minutes, read John 15 and pray for the leaders and members of Christian Surfers. Pray that we would always keep being plugged into the Lord as priority over doing great things for the Lord.

Who do you surf for?

Freedom from Sin

03.31.08

Have you ever been on the beach totally bummed at the closed out mess before you and some tourist says, “Boy, the waves look great!” Not to be cruel, but they just don’t get it. Often people think, “Man that guy partied hard his whole life and then came to Jesus just before he died. That’s the way to go.” Not to be cruel, but they just don’t get it.

In the Bible, the book of Romans, chapter 6 and verse 18 says, “You have been set free from sin…” We don’t generally use that terminology about good things. You know, the part about being set free. That’s more like the language we use regarding being trapped in something bad. The point is this, we are all born as slaves to sin and Jesus came to set us free. Often “sin” looks and is really fun but that doesn’t mean it’s good. It’s kind of like dropping in on a totally unmakeable wave over gnarly reef – the drop might be fun but it’s not a good thing.

This week, take a moment to think about the fact that what we often think is good, isn’t. That’s why God calls it sin. Think about the fact that Jesus wants to “set us free” from sin and that’s a good, no, it’s a great thing! What a great God!

So, who do you surf for?

Trust enough to follow

03.24.08

Have you ever had a friend hold out on you about a secret spot? They surf it but then won't tell you where it is. What kind of a bro is that? Did you ever wonder if God does that? He knows something really amazing but doesn’t tell us. Or worse, He knows something really amazing but tells us we can’t take part in it. What kind of a God is that?

Those thoughts come from a total misunderstanding of who God is. In Psalm 84:11 it says, “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless.” God loves to stoke us out, and in so doing He shows how rad He is. When He tells us something like intimacy outside of marriage is off limits, it’s not because He’s trying to ruin us but rather to protect us and give us the very best. Following Him means trusting him when He says He loves you. He has proven this time and time again to be true. However, it still comes down to trusting that He really isn’t holding out on us. I dare you to trust Him and live and surf for HIM.

Who do you surf for?

Rest in God's Best

03.17.08

Sometimes, especially on trips, I wonder why God allows me to get totally skunked on waves. At other times I’ve felt guilty that my life is so good when a huge portion of the world lives in truly horrendous conditions. God says in Ecclesiastes 7:14, “When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other.” Isn’t it awesome to know that God is in control and is working out HIS plan. I don’t always understand what His plan is but it sure is good to know He has one. It’s also encouraging to know that His plan has my best interests in mind. That doesn’t mean I’m always going to end up where I want to be or with all the things I want, but it does mean I’m going to end up with what is best (defined by God).

Whether you are having a great day or a bad day, remember; If you surf for Jesus, He is working out a plan bigger than just your next wave and you can take comfort in that.

So, who do you surf for?

The Giver of "the Glide"

03.10.08

Have you ever tried to tell a non-surfer what it’s like? I mean, how do you explain “the Glide?” As CS member Rick Grahame says, “It’s like describing a beautiful sunrise to a blind man.” It really is something you have to experience, not be told about. Like a grom coming out of the water for the first time with that expression that can only mean, “It’s better than I even dreamed it would be.”

Following Jesus is like that. Preachers talk about how we are “hard wired” to live and surf for Jesus. They tell us that we will find true joy when we live that kind of lifestyle. We’re told that when we live or surf for anything else we’re missing out and it saddens God because He desires the best for His children. But it’s not something you can be told – like surfing. In fact, in Psalm 34 God almost dares us to try Him out and see that He is the real deal. “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in HIM.” Why not test it? For the next month, commit to reading about Jesus in the Bible every day (Matthew, Mark, Luke or John). Take note of what He says and give it a try. Then at the end of the month you decide if Jesus is who He says He is.

Who do you surf for? If it’s not Jesus, why not give HIM a try?

Vastness

03.03.08

Look down at your hand. No, for real, look down at the palm of your hand. See how it kind of “cups.” Check out this verse; Isaiah 40:12 (speaking of God) “Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand…” As a surfer you are well aware of the vastness of the oceans. The Bible says that God could hold them all in that little “cup” in the palm of His hand. That’s big!

This year we’re asking the question, “Who do you surf for?” When you consider how great God is, it seems silly to surf for other things. To show off how great I am is kind of lame when I consider how great He is. To draw attention to me doesn’t make a lot of sense when people could be focusing on Him. Now, look back at your hand and remember, that very same God put on flesh and died so that we could live. WOW! Why do I surf for anything or anyone else? What about you?

Who do you surf for?

Keeping Watch in Baja

02.25.08

On a recent trip to Baja, the swell of the year was on its way. Only problem, we were leaving at noon the same day the swell was due to arrive. I barely slept the night before with all the anticipation of this perfect swell. I pulled up to the cobblestone right point I had called home for the last 13 days to see a perfect 6 foot set grind down the point. It was still dark out and no one was out yet. The conditions were flawless.

I paddled out while the rising sun was shooting streaks across the sky. I felt like I was floating while paddling because of the stillness of the ocean. I was experiencing perfection without having caught a single wave yet.

To my dismay, the swell was only starting to arrive and was therefore quite inconsistent at this point. I did catch some waves that morning, but they were just a figment of what it was sure to be later that day.

I thought of the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), which I had never fully understood until now. That morning I felt like one of the five virgins who didn't come prepared with enough oil for their lamps. In the parable, the virgins most likely refer to female friends and family of the bridegroom. The bridegroom arrived later than expected. Five of the virgins came prepared with enough oil to last until his coming, the other five only brought enough for when they expected him. I felt like them because I too, had not come prepared for this swell. I was leaving just as it was beginning to fill in. Fortunately, I was not missing the arrival of the Kingdom of God by missing this swell! However, it got me thinking about how I'm preparing for the coming Kingdom. Am I keeping watch? Are you keeping watch?

Leashes: The Good Kind

02.18.08

I grew up surfing in St Augustine, Florida before the shortboard revolution. I remember those cold winter days when you would lose your board on the outside and have to swim all the way to the beach to retrieve it. After a couple of chilly swims one began to surf far more conservatively. We were hesitant to try new things because of the consequences of failure. Then came the leash. Suddenly there was no fear of losing your board. The leash brought security and enabled surfers to attempt things they would never have tried before. It was okay to fail. Today I am amazed by what surfers are doing and in my opinion, all because of the leash.

Our relationship to Jesus is similar. We don’t need to be afraid of failure because we are leashed to Him. What’s the worst thing that could happen? We die. Paul said in Phillipians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”. We need not fear death if we are leashed to Jesus. Sometimes we hesitate because of less permanent failures, like people laughing or rejecting us or being mean to us. Listen to the Psalmist in chapter 37 verse 24, “When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, because the LORD is the One who holds his hand”. Don’t be afraid to fail. If you are leashed to Jesus it’s okay. He’s got a hold of you. So go ahead and try something radical for HIM today.

Who do you surf for?

Smiley Sturgis, Guest Author
http://www.gnpc.org/

Priorities VI

02.11.08

In John1:37–39, two disciples of John the Baptist (probably John and Andrew) are hanging out in the country. John the Baptist points out that Jesus is the Savior of the world. The two disciples ask Jesus, “Where are you staying?” Now the right answer is to point in some direction or say, “I’m camped out over there by that tree, next to the family with the barking dog.” Instead, what He says is, “Come and see.” That’s not an answer to the question. In fact, it appears that answering the question and dispersing information isn’t even a priority with Jesus. What was important was beginning a relationship. So, Jesus invites them to spend time with Him.

So, what is the priority: Intentional Relationships. Jesus was intentional in every action he undertook with the end in mind being relationship. Beginning with the choice to leave heaven and become a man, continuing with calling the disciples, Nicodemus and others to follow Him and giving up personal time on the mountaintop to be with the crowds; when it comes to relationships Jesus is intentional.

Here are some suggestions for making this a priority in your life:

• Begin to pray – as a member of CSUS you are asked to pray every Monday at lunch for surfers – do that.
• Write out a list of specific surfers and pray for them regularly.
• Begin to surf on purpose – what I mean by that is living for Jesus in the water. Give a wave to a guy, talk to people in the lineup, etc.
• Begin to intentionally spend time with surfers – grab coffee with one of the guys in the lineup that you know or surf with someone regularly for the purpose of encouraging them in following Jesus.
• This is a tough one. Instead of surfing your secret spot alone, surf where the crowd is just for the reason of meeting people.
  

Jesus didn’t say “I know I’m supposed to love my neighbor, but...” instead, he turned most conversations into an opportunity to build friendships. Let’s do the same in 2008. Who do you surf for?

Priorities V

02.04.08

What are you known for? Are you a ripper, soul surfer, kook, or what?

As people looked at Jesus they came to expect Him to point them to an eternal perspective rather than a focus on the here and now. It was one of the things He was known for. When questioned on taxes He was kind of like, “no biggie, just make sure you’re giving God what belongs to Him.” A father comes to Jesus (John 4) with extreme urgency, as his son, whom he loves, is sick to the point of death. Jesus responds, “You need to believe.” He regularly pointed to that eternal focus.

Jesus’ eternal focus brought hope. No matter how bad things were there was always hope that this life is temporary and it will be better in eternity. Remember the paralyzed guy who was lowered through someone’s roof (Luke 5)? We always recall that Jesus healed him. But, the healing wasn’t the focus. The focus was “your sins are forgiven.” See him pointing to that bigger, eternal perspective?

Jesus brought hope as He pointed people to eternity which created expectancy. People expected to hear Jesus say something totally bizarre compared to the normal thought of the day. They expected to see Him love someone that no one else would normally look at twice.

What about in your life? Maybe a priority for 2008 could be a focus on eternity and not just the next contest or session. With that focus you may find that people around you begin to have hope and expect God to do something in their lives.

Who do you surf for? How does your surfing fit into a bigger picture, like eternity?

Priorities IV

01.28.08

The first three priorities we’ve looked at in Jesus’ life have all related to loving God. The next three will relate to loving others.

Have you ever noticed how people that stay in the shadows come into the light when Jesus is around. Those that aren’t even comfortable in their own skin are comfortable enough to come to Jesus. One priority in His life was creating an atmosphere of love. Look at the Woman at the well (Jn 4), Zacchaeus (Lk 19), the cheating woman (Jn 8), and the demon-possessed duo (Mt 8). The Bible doesn’t tell us how Jesus felt in every instance, but it does tell us that He acted in love (doing what was best for others) on a consistent basis. Jesus responded so consistently that it created an atmosphere where people started to think, “maybe He’d even love me.”

Today I was reading a story on Surfline about a Jersey surfer that died. The article spoke of how he would hoot for anyone on a wave. Spreadin’ the love. What about you? Are you acting in love consistently, to the point where there is an atmosphere of love wherever you go? Maybe 2008 could be a year where, out of love for others, you begin to let Jesus live like that through you.

Who do you surf for? Your love shows the answer.

Priorities III

01.21.08

Who is Jesus? People have wrestled with that question for 2,000 years.

On top of Prayerful Dependence and a Priority on the Word, Jesus felt it was critical to convey a proper concept of who He was. This continued to be a priority throughout His ministry. Whether rebuking Peter for trying to protect His life, when He said laying down His life was the very reason He came, or, walking away from the crowds when they wanted Him to become king because He said His kingdom wasn’t of this world. Repeatedly Jesus challenged people to embrace Him for who He was and not for who they wanted Him to be.

A while back I was surfing this secret spot in New England. As I sped down the line there were VW Bug size boulders that would pop out of the face of the wave. Now I had two options: one, ask them to move so I could have the ride I wanted or two, alter my ride.
As you cruise down the line in life are you looking for a Jesus that fits nicely into your life or are you altering your life to fit HIM?

Today you can turn on the TV, radio or go to the church on the corner and hear about several different versions of Jesus. Some of them fit nicely into our lives and some of them are brutal. But, the question is, “Who is the real Jesus?” The answer is found in the Bible.

Why not make it a priority this year to get to know the real Jesus.

Priorities II

01.14.08

Matthew 7:24-27 – The House with a Solid Foundation

I remember a few years ago looking at pictures of North Carolina after a hurricane passed. It’s heartbreaking to see the foundations of homes washed away. Oh, the devastation that a storm can bring to a foundation.

I’ve experienced that same feeling looking into the eyes of a person after life has shattered them. Whether an unexpected tragedy or the end of a long battle with a disease, oh the devastation that a storm can bring to the foundation of a life.

What are you building your life on: advice from friends, following your heart, or the wisdom of Rick Kane? When we look at the life of Jesus and His priorities we see that the Bible held a high place in His life. He studied it, memorized it, quoted it and taught it. He built His life on it.

Why not begin the New Year with a renewed expression of love for God by getting into His love letter to you.

Take some time each day to look into the Bible and read. Start with one chapter a day – remember something is better than nothing. Ask these three questions:

What does this passage say?
What does it mean?
What does that mean to me today?

Peace in a hurricane comes when we know our foundation is secure. Jesus said that when it comes to the Bible, not even a letter would slip.

Priorities

01.07.08

Do you need God? Jesus said in John 5:19 that He could do NOTHING without the Father. In John 15 Jesus says, He is a vine and we are branches and that without Him we can do NOTHING. Those statements should change our perspective on how much we need God. We don’t just need Him for Heaven, but for everyday life.

Prayer is one of the key ways our need for God is expressed. People that believe they need God call out to Him. Prayer was a top priority in Jesus’ life. In Luke 5:16, it says, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Billy Graham once said, “True prayer is a way of life, not just for use in cases of emergency. Make it a habit, and when the need arises you will be in practice.”

As an expression of your love for God why not make Prayerful Dependence a priority in 2008. Here are a few ideas on how to weave it into your life:
Pray before you paddle out.

• In the car, turn off the radio and pray.
• Get a couple friends and begin praying together once a week.
• Use memory triggers. Whenever you see a certain car, person, tree – whatever – pray.
• Get a timer and set it for 5 minutes each morning and talk to God until it goes off.
• Try to pray at the same time or place everyday.
• Place names or photos of people in spots that you look at daily. Pray when you see them.
• If you are apart of a CS chapter, brainstorm ways to “cover” your chapter in prayer.

What's the Motivation Behind our Priorities?

12.31.07

Well, here we go again. It’s the time of year when we wrestle with the priorities in our life and what we wish were our priorities. You know what I’m talking about, New Year Resolutions. We pause and think about what we want our life to look like; thinner, smarter, or in better shape, and then we commit to disciplines to get there.

In Romans 8:28, God says that HIS desire is to see the character and priorities of Jesus formed in us. We should pause and ask the question, “What are the priorities of Jesus’ life?” Over the next six weeks we will look at those, but first we need to think about what was the driving force behind them. Because God is as concerned with our motivation as our priorities.

Jesus said that, like a giant painting hanging on two nails, all commands and instructions hang on two things; love for God, and love for people. Everything in Jesus’ life was driven by love. We each need to ruthlessly evaluate our lives and ask the question; do my priorities flow out of love? In some ways that’s what we’re asking with the question, “Who do you surf for?”

In the Beginning

12.24.07

John 1:1-17
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.

All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man.

He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John testified about Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.' " For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas from Christian Surfers United States

Can God Use Surfers?

12.17.07

Luke 2:8-20

“And there were shepherds…” Shepherds were pretty low on the social ladder in Jesus’ day. Some historians say their testimony was not even permissible in court. Why would God choose them to proclaim this Good News. I think the Angels would have been a much better choice and after all they were already in the neighborhood. But HE didn’t choose the Angels. Nope, HE went for the smelly shepherds.

In 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, it says that God enjoys taking the weak person and doing unbelievable things through them so that everyone will realize that it’s GOD who’s the hero.

As you look around the United States, who would you pick to tell the world Good News? There are many impressive groups and subcultures that people would be inclined to listen to. Not to be too hard on us, but, would you pick surfers? Spicolli has done a lot of damage to our reputation. Surfers aren’t known as the most reliable, mature, or wise. But, that’s just the kind of people God says He will use if they will let Him.

During this amazing holiday, will you take the chance to believe that God can use us surfers with all our inadequacies? Maybe that’s exactly why He chose us and he plans on filling the gaps with His grace. But, we have to let Him take the lead. Who do you surf for?

Nothing is Impossible

12.10.07

Luke 1:37

“Nothing is impossible with God.” This doesn’t mean that God is a cosmic Santa Clause running about doing whatever I ask. But, it does mean that, if God chooses to do something for His glory there is nothing He can’t do.

Christmas is such a huge illustration of the limitlessness of God. A virgin gets pregnant without a man. The baby is both God and human. If this stuff weren’t true it’d be tough to swallow.

So, what’s going on in your life this Christmas that you’re not sure God is big enough to handle? Is your marriage struggling? Having friend problems? Or is it that God is asking you to do something and you’re afraid it will fail? For example, is there someone that God is asking you to tell about Jesus during this time of year?

Check out Mary’s response to this truth. Mary answered, “I am the Lord’s servant.” If God is so big and so awesome that “NOTHING” is impossible for HIM, then what other response could there be. Our only response, if we believe this, can be – OK, you’re in charge and I’ll follow you, step by step. This situation forced Mary to do some ruthless evaluation of her heart and it calls us to do the same. Who do you surf for? Really…

First Christmas

12.03.07

Luke 1:30

I love Christmas. I love everything about it. But, think about that first Christmas.

Think about a young teenage girl being visited by an angel. Unlike what we see on TV today, evidently being visited by an angel is less like a walk in the park and more like being caught inside at pipeline – SCARY! We learn a great deal about what Mary values by what calms her down. “Do not be afraid, Mary…” check it out, here comes the insight. “…You have found favor with God.” Did you see that? Knowing God was pleased was all it took. Mary didn’t need a signed contract promising everything would be okay or a detailed plan of how this would play out. All that mattered was that God was pleased.

As you enter this wonderful season of the year, are there any struggles in your life, anything scary? Does knowing that God is pleased matter so much to you that it makes everything okay? Are you living in a way that pleases God? The first Christmas didn’t begin with the excitement of the shepherds and the angel chorus. It began with Mary rethinking what mattered to her. Was it her safety, her plan for her life, her comfort or was it that she “found favor with God?” What matters to you this Christmas? Who do you surf for?

Thanksgiving All Year

11.26.07

Have you come out of your Turkey coma yet? The sad thing about Thanksgiving ending isn’t trying to recover from eating too much. It’s that we “recover” from being thankful. How quickly we go back to complaining about the waves or work or whatever. I want to encourage you to continue and develop the habit of thanksgiving (1Thessalonians 5:18). To help you with this I want to give you a challenge.

Have you been thankful for these little Monday Morning Devotionals? Have you told someone that you’re thankful? I don’t mean the people that put them together. I mean a friend. Have you told a friend that you’re stoked on Monday’s with a little dose of encouragement. Here’s the challenge: Christmas is just around the corner. Why not give a friend a membership to Christian Surfers for Christmas. That way, they can get stoked on these little devotionals too. Also, don’t give them the standard membership. Upgrade and get them something for their stocking. In so doing, you will be helping out your friend, helping Christian Surfers United States, and you’ll be expressing gratitude for something in your life.

Don’t let Thanksgiving pass with the Turkey

Thanksgiving

11.19.07

1 Thessalonians 5:18
Do you ever wonder what God’s will for your life is? Well, good news! Verse 18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” There it is, be thankful. Now wait a second. If I had said buy that car or take that job or marry that girl or whatever decision you are wondering about – would you have been super excited? Well, then why not get just as excited about this? Because this is what God is saying to us today. He could choose to just answer our questions about whether to do A or B but He felt it was more important to tell us that He wants us to be thankful people.

This is such a great week to remember to be thankful. Why not make a little extra effort this week to be grateful? In fact, why don’t you take a piece of paper and each morning write out things you want to thank God for? You can make a list of categories like; family, relationships, waves, our salvation in Jesus and all those spiritual blessings, and maybe even some of the tough situations in our life that God has used to refine us. Then list specifics in each category.

Don’t just celebrate “Thanksgiving” as a holiday. Instead celebrate Thanks Giving as an act of love to our God.

Who do you surf for?

11.12.07

2 Corinthians 11: 2-4
"I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him. But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough."

I believe that through the scriptures, the Lord asks even the people of the church, “Who do you surf for?” or “Which Jesus do you serve?” or “Which gospel do you preach?” It’s alarming to know that there are other Jesus’ being preached, and other gospels’ being shared.

The true gospel of Jesus Christ is one of death before resurrection. This gospel never promises monetary wealth or earthly gain. This gospel never promises perfect waves or an admirable reputation. The true gospel of Jesus Christ is about losing our lives for the sake of others, and losing our lives doesn’t mean filling up our time with ministry. In fact, sometimes losing our lives means giving up our ministry.

Jesus lost His life for our sake. A King who became poor and walked amongst those that He created. He is the Truth, but remained humble when accused of being wrong. And when it came to the cross, He knew the price that He would have to pay. As blood seeped through his pores, He asked the Father for another way, but in the end He faced the cross unto death, so that the door of life would be opened for us.

Brothers and sisters, do not avoid the cross, but take up your cross daily. There are constantly things in our lives that must be put on the cross. Do not move away from it, do not hide from it, but walk through it knowing that God’s grace is sufficient for you. And through that death, you will open the door for other’s to share the resurrection life.

Guest Author Nino Camillo

Dependency

11.5.07

I love surfing new spots! I love experiencing new environments, the adventure, and all the unique nuances a new spot brings. But, there's also something I dread about a new spot. I dread either looking like a fool or having to rely on a fellow surfer for local knowledge. This is especially true of a new reef break with a tricky entry/exit or a gnarly rock in the middle of the takeoff spot. And let's face it, local surfers are rarely lining up to share their years of hard won knowledge with the new guy/gal.

Jesus looks at situations like this very differently. In his book Wild At Heart, John Eldredge, points out that Jesus lived in total dependence of his Father. Not only this, Jesus was stoked about his dependence on God. This was a point of pride, not embarrassment for Jesus. John 6:57 says, "I assure you, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing". How fortunate are we that the Creator of the universe desires to share everything He has and knows with us. Who do you surf for?

The Bro Deal

10.29.07

Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Have you ever received a “bro” deal? In surfing, we’re always looking for it, always hearing about it, and sometimes receiving it. Whether it’s a bar of wax, a tee shirt or something major. Don’t you love the “bro” deal? It’s funny how stoked we are to get a free sticker. But, how stoked are we to give the “bro” deal. Jesus said that it was better to give than to receive. Do we really believe this? Do we practice it?
In Proverbs it says not to put off till tomorrow the good you can do today. Why not look around this week and find ways you can give the “bro” deal to someone, especially other followers of Jesus. Maybe it’s giving them something free or maybe it’s serving them in some way. Jesus did it by washing the feet of His disciples. Ask God to show you some way to give the “bro” deal this week. This is a great way to let Jesus take control of your surfing. Who do you surf for?

Mold

10.15.07

Do you act differently in the water than you do at church? Do you ever get bummed in your heart when two more people walk in and sit next to you when there is clearly an entire row empty on the other side of the building? Or do you ever cut off new believers to receive prayer.

Have you ever read the book of Leviticus? Not a real thriller, but there are important things in there. While reading it recently, I made the observation that there are no separations from church and life. They don’t say, this is spiritual life and this is just life. In fact, God even gives instructions on what to do if mold grows on the Israelites homes. God is concerned with every detail of our lives, not just our church life. This week, think if there are areas of your life that you’re holding on to for yourself? Places that you don’t want God to go? Is surfing one of those areas? God gave you surfing as a gift, but He knows that it is best when surfing is used to show His awesomeness to the world. Who do you surf for?

First Wave, First Love

10.15.07

Do you remember your first wave? It felt like you stood there forever even though it was only 1.3 seconds. Remember how stoked you were on the ocean and surfing. It didn’t matter the size or wind direction. You were on it any chance you had. A couple years later, you may find yourself complaining about how bad the waves are. The wind always seems to be wrong or you wish there was a point-break nearby. Or worse, maybe you live in front of the spot we all dream of and yet you are still not satisfied.

Remember when you first met Jesus. You couldn’t believe that HE would love you. That HE paid so you could be forgiven. Too good to be true and yet you knew in your heart that it was. After time you may find yourself complaining because God didn’t do this or that. Mad because HE allowed something to happen. Maybe you ask questions like, “Doesn’t HE understand that this is all about me?”

Revelation 2:4 poses an interesting question: Have we left our first love? Have we become so enamored with ourselves that, like Narcissus, we starve ourselves of real life by staring at our own reflection? Have we forgotten the beauty and goodness of the Jesus we fell in love with? Has our world ceased to revolve around the Son and been pulled into the gravitational field of selfishness? Has grace ceased to be amazing and all that captures my heart is temporary?

It’s time for us to paddle back out with that innocent freshness and just enjoy the gift. It may also be time for us to fall back in love with the God that has never wavered on HIS passion for us. “Who do you surf for?”

God is for us

10.08.07

Romans 8:31 "...If God is for us, who can be against us?"

The waves are flat and things aren’t going so great. We look up at the Heavens and wonder, “God, what are you doing to me? Why are you trying to ruin me?” As a follower of God this verse is crucial. Not the part about how if God’s for us who can be against us, although that really is true. If you’re surfing a spot with the gnarliest, heaviest local and he loves you than who else do you need to worry about? But, that’s not what I’m talking about. “If God is for us,” that’s what I’m talking about. GOD IS FOR US!! If you are a disciple of Jesus than He is for you. It doesn’t always feel like it. Lot’s of times it doesn’t even look like it. But, we know from God’s book that HE IS FOR US. He is working things for HIS Glory and our good. Check out the rest of Romans 8 and all that it means “If God is for us.” It’s huge! This week, whatever is going on, remember – GOD is for “us”.

So the question is, Is God for you? Are you His child? Who do you surf for?

Empty Promises?

10.01.07

From trade shows to magazine ads, the surfing industry is pushing a way of life along with the promises of what that life will bring. But, do those promises come true? We are told to not conform to traditional (or religious) guidelines, be your own master, choose your own destiny. Don’t let anything keep you from the waves – not family or work or anything. Because, surfing will ultimately fulfill you. But, it’s not true! Look at all the broken families, hurting children and wounded adults because someone chased the waves and blew off responsibilities. In fact, many of the “poster children” of this image are devastated when the cameras are off. They look cool when the film is rolling but what about when the party ends.

2 Peter 2:17-19 says: “These people are as useless as dried-up springs or as mist blown away by the wind. They are doomed to blackest darkness. They brag about themselves with empty, foolish boasting. With an appeal to twisted sexual desires, they lure back into sin those who have barely escaped from a lifestyle of deception. They promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves of sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you.”

Proverbs24:1 says, “Do not envy wicked men…”
The Bible teaches that ultimately only God fulfills us.
Who do you surf for?