Tammy Hotsenpiller

Ari was on a journey to find a higher power.  Is there a God?  What is the purpose of life?  Everyone has a desire in their heart for more.  If it's not Jesus it will be filled with new age or whatever.  Ari's story was that she fell for a lie that she was a god.  But in Jr. High she was completely humbled by God.  She opened her bible for the first time.  If someone feels broken out there listen to this amazing testimony from Ari.

Andre's story is so real and relevant.  Andre grew up Armenian Orthodox, went to Christian school all his life but never heard the gospel.  He heard about Jesus but not about sin.  He didn't know what grace was but then after 5 years of giving his life to Jesus he finally understood the gospel.  So now Andre is working at Influence Church and they have Jesus Clubs in the high schools.  He meets the kids where they're at.  A lot never knew about Jesus.  So be encouraged listening to this podcast with Pastor Tammy Hotsenpiller and Andre.

Jesus Clubs -- "The Next Jesus Movement" with Pastor Allan and Pastor Lili.  They have a heart for God and are leading clubs in our local schools where kids are coming to faith in Jesus Christ.  Lili's story is that she came to Jesus in high school.  When she was 16 years old Lili struggled with anxiety, identity, and did not know her worth.  Allan was 19 years old when he gave his life to the Lord.  Allan got in trouble a lot.  When he was 14 years old he got involved with drugs.  But at 21 years old Allan got involved with Brian Barcelona where they did Jesus Clubs and saw thousands of high schoolers coming to Jesus.  They saw God doing it in LA and now Orange County.  They tell them all about the love of God and the stories are amazing.

This story will make you think -- Where was I at that age?  Listen to JJ's story.  JJ started at 2nd grade when her grandparents raised her.  She never felt good enough. JJ experienced bullying at 4th grade and tried to take her life.  She was so angry so JJ became a bully too.  Nothing could fill the hole in JJ's heart.  JJ's story goes into dealing with hurt and forgiveness.  God is taking JJ to be a model for Jesus.

What is the right way to handle offense?  In the story of Stephen in Acts 7 he stood for what is right.  God will show you the truth.  God gives us a glimpse of eternity and the strength to stand for truth.  Our actions are a testimony.  And forgiveness is at the heart of the unoffended.  So Forgive other's words, keep moving, let love smother pain and let Jesus be our defense.  

Definition of offended.  Resentful or annoyed, typically as a result of a perceived insult.  Offense is the bait the enemy uses to trap us.  He will use people's words and actions to get our minds churning and stir up our emotions.  Steps to avoid offense:  1) Be smart.  Don't take the bait.  2) Forgive.  Because Jesus said to.  Unforgiveness is a heavy burden to carry.  3) There is not a limit to forgiveness.

What causes a person to feel offended?  Hurt, envy, jealousy, and misunderstanding will lead to an offended spirit.  Pastor Tammy tells the story of Joseph and his set up for leadership.  Steps for not taking Offense:

1.  Pause before reacting

2.  Seek understanding

3.  Live with gratitude

4.  Self-reflection

5.  Practice forgiveness

The definition of offended is resentful or annoyed, typically as a result of a perceived insult.  The Latin root is to provoke, or displease, hurt or upset.  Offense occurs when we feel personally attacked y someone else's words or actions.  Pastor Tammy gives us insight into what the bible says about this  and how to become unoffendable. How are you going to respond?

How to rejoice with others when you are still waiting for your miracle.  

Romans 12:15  Paul exhorts "Rejoice with those who rejoice."