5-7-08
God of the Second Chance: Bryan's Story

Scripture thought for today:

There are things I hate I end up doing...the things I want to do, I just don't do. Who will save me this time? Thank God -Jesus Christ our Lord!

Romans 7:21-25 (paraphrased)

Dear Friend,
Do you need a second chance? What an amazing story we watched on video this past Sunday of Bryan Denbrock. (To watch click here.) He is such a grateful Christ follower who has a beautiful marriage and family. It seems impossible that his life was so broken. God is the God of second chances! God will transform every life that will surrender to Him. We all have a story of God's grace giving us another lease on life again and again. (To send us yours, see below.)

The Bible is full of second chances; from Jonah who ignored what God created him to be and do, to the woman caught in the act of adultery. Some sins are willful acts of disobedience; some sins are willful ignoring of God's purpose for our lives. Thank God. . . He forgives, restores and empowers people to live the life He created for them to live.

Do you need a second chance? Does someone you know need a second chance? There really is a simple process. Move from PRETENDING and DEFENDING to ADMISSION and SUBMISSION. Don't pretend nothing is wrong. Stop defending the decisions you've made. Admit that you have not been listening to God and submit to God's will for you. Take a bold step and do what God is leading you to do! Stop living in a place of misery or chaos when you can take the next step into the blessings God wants you to have! Then watch God turn your history into a story of His grace and your blessing. Watch God turn your DECISION into HIS PROVISION!!

In our series Bad Guys of the Bible, we will see the God of second chances always offering a new lease on life to even the worst bad guy. You'll find people in the Bible who have your same story.

A prayer for another chance:
Psalm 51:10-13 (NKJV)
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from Your presence,
And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of Your salvation,
And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.
Then I will teach transgressors Your ways,
And sinners shall be converted to You. Amen

Living in the Second Chance,


Writing Your Story

"It is a proof of your faith. Many people will praise God because you obey the Good News of Christ - the gospel you say you believe - and because you freely share with them and with all others." 2 Cor. 9:13(NCV)

1. Before you start writing, pray and ask God for help and the words to share.

2. Write out your testimony.

PART I: WHO ARE YOU?(¼ page max)If appropriate, include family history and/or church background. Avoid naming religious denominations since this may alienate some listeners.

PART II: THE PROBLEM (3/4 pages max)Describe your attitudes and actions before the problem/crisis occurred.

Give an explanation of your trial and/or crisis, with an emphasis on how you felt.

PART III: THE SOLUTION (1 page)
What did your journey look like? (i.e. your healing, actions you took, help from a group or friend, impact of scripture.)

Describe changes in your attitudes and actions since placing this situation in God's hands.

PART IV: THE OUTCOME (½ page max)
Give a snapshot of your life and service to God today, including your future plans.

3.Give us your testimony on a hard copy or email.

©2008 Scott & Clare Loughrige