watch this

I heard about this video on Sunday and had to share it with you.  These guys are a really good local band.  The lead singer (Ben) plays guitar at Freedom Fellowship with me and is genuinely a great guy.  One of the great things about this video is their commitment to finishing the song, even though it isn’t quite the way they expected.  Watch and pass it along to your friends.

sunday recap

Set list:

• Signature Of Divine (Yahweh)
• Glory To God Forever
• Till I See You
• Center
• All Because Of Jesus

We began the series The Best Question Ever based on the book by Andy Stanley today.  If you haven’t read this book, I’d highly recommend it.  Here are my quick notes:

• We typically can talk ourselves into believing just about anything is ok.  We rationalize and justify so we basically can do what we want.
• The “best question ever” breaks through that junk and requires us to look from a different perspective that cuts to the heart of the decision.
• If we will filter all of our decisions, invitations, opportunities – everything – through this question, we will likely make wiser decisions.
• So, WHAT’S THE QUESTION???!!!
• Here it is:  In light of my past experiences, my present circumstances, and my future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing for me to do?
• Sound simple?  In a lot of ways it is – the tough part is we may not like the answers we get.
• It could mean not pursuing that relationship, not investing in that opportunity, changing a lifestyle, etc.

There’s a lot more I could write, but I’ve already spoiled a little of the book.  I encourage you to go here and get it.  It will literally change your life if you’ll take its advice.

what’s your personality pattern?

Tony Morgan wrote about taking the Personality Pattern test. I decided to take it as well. Here are my results:

1. Accessible – You’re comfortable expressing yourself in words and actions, with no self-censorship. You believe that if someone doesn’t like what they see it’s not your problem, but theirs. A high score on the “accessible” trait suggests that you have a lot of friends, socialize often, and enjoy rap/hip-hop music. You don’t see the need to keep your thoughts to yourself, or to have a zone of privacy that encompasses only yourself and a small circle of friends and relatives.

2. Understanding – You are willing to take the time to find out what’s going on with other people, especially if they’re in distress. You’re a good listener, you don’t criticize, and you offer unbiased, respectful, honest advice when it’s requested. With a high score on the “understanding” trait, it is likely that you are enthusiastic about charitable work, helping others, and making the world a better place. You don’t feel the need to impose your standards on others or say things that, even though true, cause pain.

3. Innovative – You come up with a lot of ideas; if one doesn’t work out, there’s always another waiting in the wings. You often have interesting solutions to difficult problems. You’re practically a one-person brainstorming session. You are less interested changing the world than in dealing with things as they are. Unlike those who spend all their time trying to solve problems, you prefer to zero in on things that work and stick with them.

4. Introspective – You like your own company; you’re a very interesting person. Tracking your own mental processes, knowing what you’re thinking and why you do what you do, is important to you. Often, what’s going on in your mind is more compelling than what’s going on outside. For the most part, those with a high score on the “introspective” trait enjoy reading, taking long walks, learning new things, and other solitary activities. You are not someone who is constantly looking to be among a group of friends; you never feel bored when you are by yourself.

5. Aesthetic – You appreciate art, beauty, and design; you know that they are not superficial but absolutely crucial to living the good life. You have good taste, and you’re proud of it. Those with a high score on the “aesthetic” trait are often employed in literary or artistic professions, enjoy domestic activities — doing things around the house — and are enthusiastic about the arts, reading, and travel. You don’t think it’s pretentious to be moved by art and beauty. You’re not one of those who believe it doesn’t matter what something looks like as long as it does its job.

6. Sympathetic – You have a knack for knowing what’s going on in the hearts and minds of those around you, without their having to tell you explicitly. People tend to turn to you with their problems because they know you care, and that you will likely offer good advice and a helping hand. You do not feel that people with sad stories are just looking for attention, or have brought their problems upon themselves.

7. Warm – You have a genuine interest in other people. You’re a natural host, and are always thinking about how you can increase the happiness of those around you. When friends have problems or are in trouble, you’re usually the first person they turn to for aid and comfort. Scoring high on the “warm” trait suggests that you are among those who enjoy domestic activities — doing things around the house — and are enthusiastic about charitable work, helping others, and making the world a better place. You don’t always say exactly what you’re thinking; you don’t like the idea of causing anyone pain because of your criticism.

8. Empathetic – You are in touch with your own feelings, which helps put you in touch with the feelings of others. You don’t buy the logic that your happiness comes ahead of everyone else’s because unless you’re happy you’re incapable of making anyone else happy.

9. Scrupulous – You are an honest, fair person. You don’t lie or cheat to get ahead. You treat others with respect and hope for the same in return. You do not feel that you are above the rules that everyone else follows; you are definitely not willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead.

10. Intellectual – You are thoughtful, rational, and comfortable in the world of ideas. People find you interesting to talk to. You’re the living embodiment of the saying “You learn something new every day.” In general, those with a high score on the “intellectual” trait are employed in such fields as teaching and research, and are enthusiastic about reading, foreign films, and classical music. You do not avoid abstract conversation, experimenting with new ideas, or studying new things. It bores you to stick to the straight and narrow of what you already know.

brand damage

If you haven’t heard about the drama from last night’s VMA awards, then you can go see for yourself here.   Kanye has damaged his brand at least short-term, possibly long-term (that remains to be seen).  His main fan base (what I call “brand evangelists”) will most likely go unchanged as will those who didn’t like him to begin with or who have never heard of him (outsiders).  Where the damage is done are those who like his music somewhat but aren’t evangelists yet (consumers).  This is generally the largest group and those who determine if you’re a long-term success.  Kanye’s actions last night moved many people from consumer to outsider.

Within the last week, we’ve also heard about Joe Wilson’s outburst during the President’s speech.  I would say this will have the same affect.  Outbursts like these polarize people in a way that is usually harmful.  You won’t generally affect the number of avid supporters you have.  But you will more than likely push away those who were riding the fence.  It damages your brand – period.

I said it in this post – EVERYTHING you do as a person or organization affects your brand.  There is a great lesson to be learned from these events.  You have to THINK before you act.

musician auditions

We’re beginning to take sign ups for musician auditions.  I’m really excited about this as these usually bring out some untapped talent who, for whatever reason, haven’t plugged in yet (no pun intended).

Vocal auditions will be Monday, September 21, 6:30 pm

Instrument auditions will be Tuesday, September 22, 6:30 pm

The deadline to sign up is Sunday, September 20.

If you know anyone at Freedom or someone in the Greenville/Spartanburg area who might be interested, send them to Freedom Auditions to sign up.  Or they can come Sunday and sign up at the Serve table.