Two Moves Ahead......

Lately God has been reminding me that I haven't been dwelling on the truth of His Word nearly enough. It's 12:35am and I was about to go brush my teeth when I thought I would meditate on some. I opened up my flashcard app with my collection of verses and 1 Peter 3:14-17 was the first one up.

"But even if you should suffer for doing what is right, you are blesses. 'Never be afraid of their threats, and never get upset. Instead, exalt the Messiah' as Lord in your lives. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you to explain the hope you have. But do this gently and respectfully, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak evil of your good conduct in the Messiah will be ashamed in slandering you. After all, if it is the will of God, it is better to suffer for doing right than for doing wrong."

That is one of my favorite sections of scripture, it really sums up our life in a paragraph.

What if we really lived out these verses? 

Especially when it says "Never be afraid of their threats, and never get upset. Instead, exalt the Messiah". 
We would truly be followers of Christ who are willing and ready to lay it all down because we have hope and that hope does not fail. (Romans 5:3-5)

What about the last section, "After all, if it is the will of God, it is better to suffer for doing right than for doing wrong."
Now what is the will of God? 1 Tim 2:3&4 says that God wants everyone to be saved and understand the truth. Are we willing to go through suffering and persecution and exalt the Messiah in the midst of it?  If God is allowing us to go through that situation not only to strengthen us, but also to bring others to Himself through our reaction, then why do we get offended?

Did Jesus ever get offended?

Why should we?

What is our focus on when we feel offended?

Think two moves ahead, the situations we're in now have direct affect on the future.





Be a follower, not a fan.
- Jordan Nickel.

Since when has the gospel been safe?

I have the opportunity to lead a time of intercession at College Group tomorrow night and I was researching some information on the amount of persecution against the Christian Church in the world.
I came across an article on The Voice of the Martyrs' Blog. It's an awesome short read.

Suffering - the Mark of the Church

I recently read a deeply thought provoking blog written by Pastor Eric Foley, the CEO and Co-Founder of Seoul USA. As I read what he wrote, I was reminded of a chapter in Corrie Ten Boom’s book The Hiding Place. It is in this part of her story that she tells of a night when she and her family stayed up late into the evening to listen to a live radio address from the Prime Minister of Holland. Her family listened intently as the Dutch people were told they need not worry about war. He announced to the nation that both sides had agreed to accept the neutral stance of Holland. Upon hearing this, Casper Ten Boom rose to his feet, and abruptly turned off the radio. He knew that war was imminent, and he was deeply disturbed by the false hope being given to the people.
It was a mere five hours after that announcement that the Ten Boom family awoke to the sounds of explosions followed by flashes of light. Bombs were being dropped on their homeland. They had been invaded, and war had rudely erupted in the Dutch nation. Further reading of Corrie’s story reveals the deep concern Casper Ten Boom had for those who would not be ready for the hard times ahead.
I too, sense this deep disturbance as all my senses are bombarded by knowledge of the suffering Christians are enduring all over the world today. I am troubled as I see and hear evil men taunt the world, both verbally and visually, with their hellish threats. Something in me shudders when I hear a narrative that portrays us as a people removed from harm, and safely secured. It is not a fearful self-preservation I feel, but rather a concern for those who are not ready. At the same time, I believe this begs a deeper look from within from all of us.

If we have edited our faith to such a degree that suffering has no place, how will we be prepared when it arrives on our doorstep?

I remember reading The Hiding Place many years ago and thinking to myself: surely God knew I could not suffer as those whose stories line the pages in this book. I told myself – that is why I was born in this time, blessed, and in America. I am ashamed to admit that my world view was distorted and self-absorbed at best. My understanding was one in which Americans somehow were not privy to suffering for their faith; certainly not in today’s civil society. Keeping with the comfort level I sought to surround myself with I also believed that all persecuted Christians must have been supernaturally spared the physical and mental pain of torture. If I dared to allow my mind to contemplate their suffering, I did so only to a point. Generally those thoughts ended with my rationalizing how God must have intervened before the physical pain touched them. I also entertained the thought that perhaps there was something those who suffered for their faith could have done to avoid the punishment they were dealt. Maybe if they had prayed a specific prayer, avoided hostile people groups, or perhaps simply stayed home.
It would be years later at The Voice of The Martyrs conference that I would come face to face with my distorted understanding. I heard stories from all over the world of suffering happening to Christians. The first evening I listened as a man from Pakistan explained the hardships the Pakistani church endures, and then described the torture and eventual murder of a young Christian boy. This young man died at the hands of his torturers simply because he was a Christian. For the first time in my life I contemplated the possibility that God does not intervene in every situation and take the suffering away from His people.
That evening I went back to my hotel room and had a heart-to-heart talk with the Lord. Up until that time I had been crying out to the Lord to “Send me!” Now I was asking Him to not fulfill those prayers. The burden in my heart for those who suffer was greater than I felt I could bear. I spoke to the Lord again from the neatly-crafted package of comfort, safety, and control I wanted to create for my life. He graciously listened to me try to tell Him what to do.
Day two of the conference began with me feeling assured—certainly my talk with the Lord was successful and I had effectively canceled out all those “send me” prayers. It was then that a young man from the Middle East began to share about his work, which includes traveling great distances into hostile territories controlled by militant Islam. These are places where Christians die for their faith. He shared his family’s pleas not to do the work God had called him to.
Pictures were displayed on a screen behind him of people receiving the Bibles he delivered. Their expressions of curiosity and delight captivated me. As he spoke, he seemed puzzled by those who ask why he goes to such dangerous places. His response was simply, “Since when has the gospel been safe?”
I felt as if I were alone with the Lord in the room. This statement seared my heart, and I knew the Lord was speaking directly to me. I recalled the list of demands I called “prayer” the night before, and heard Him say to me, “I did not create you that way.”  At that moment, I said “Yes.” to His way in all my life.
Today I still hear this young man’s words – “since when has the gospel been safe?” Perhaps it is the omission of this gospel message that disturbs me most. If we have edited our faith to such a degree that suffering has no place, how will we be prepared when it arrives on our doorstep? After all it is in the Bible that, “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” (2 Timothy 3:12).
Corrie Ten Boom goes on in her book to describe how as bombs were falling from the sky over Holland, she and her sister knelt on their knees and prayed. They prayed for those who would mourn the loss of loved ones, they prayed for those who were injured, they prayed for the ill prepared, and they prayed for the German soldiers. Today Christians in hostile and restricted nations continue to pray. They are praying in the West Bank, as the minority Christian communities open their churches as places of refuge to Christians and Muslims alike. Some of the places where they are praying include Syria, Iraq, North Korea, Nigeria, and South Sudan. They are praying in underground meetings, in fields, deserts, and homes. Some will pray alone, silently, without the utterance of a single word. While others are praying in chains confined to their prison cells. Yes, suffering has always been the mark of the Christian church. We have much to learn from our Christian family who suffer for the sake of the cross.
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.”   Revelation 12:11

So as the persecution mounts around the world pray and seek the Lord. We all need strength at this time and it may get worse here at home. Continue to intercede for our brothers and sisters around the world. Pray they would have strength to represent Christ and stand strong even in the face of death. Pray for those who are persecuting the church. That God would continue to reveal himself to them.

Intercede.

Future.....Plans.....What an adventure!

The Philippines was an amazing experience, I had never been in a place where people were in such desperate need. They literally lost every material possession they owned except for the clothes on their backs. It was amazing to see the amount of work that was done in the four months between the typhoon and when I was able to go. There were still people and families that were living with others because they still didn't have a house. Sometimes there would be 3-4 families living in the same house. Please continue to pray for those who live and have been affected by the Typhoon Yolanda and that the name of Jesus would continue to spread throughout the islands of the Philippines.

Upon returning to the states I continued to pray about what I what I should be doing this fall in regards to studying and equipping myself for what God has planned for my life.
I prayed, researched different places, prayed, talked to friends, prayed, read through my journal entries to see what God has spoken to me in the past and if any of it was specifically relevant for my immediate situation.
I just returned from a trip up to the Oregon Coast with some friends and was able to spend time reflecting on what God has spoken to me and listened to where He is leading me at this time.
I just got all my brothers and Dad to come and have a small devotion once a week so that we can build our strength as a band of brothers in Christ. It was easy, l was reminded of why I haven't started the groups I've really desired to start groups for Jr. And Sr. High Students where we can read through a book and discuss it in a small group setting.

Now during my times on the beach I really thought about the fact that God has given each of us specific gifts to tell the world about Christ. I was thinking, what are mine? My two main spiritual gifts are Exhortation & Teaching and I am passionate about Jr. & Sr. High students because they are at the exact age where they need the truth the most. As they search for a substance to fill the void they feel inside them and all they hear is the world telling them what they need to feel accepted, loved and needed. I want to encourage Fathers to be a Father by actively pursuing relationships with their sons and talking about those tough subjects. Then my personality affects this as well, I greatly enjoy leading, conversing and listening and if we go by the personality test I am extroverted, sensible, feeling and judging. I would love to lead groups or even get them started and then allow someone else to step in.

So where am I going this fall? At this time my plan is to study online and develop the skills and gifts God has blessed me with.

Philippines Typhoon Relief on March 23rd!

     On November 8th, 2013 the largest Philippine Typhoon on record devastated the Islands of the Philippines destroying homes, buildings, churches and killing at least 6,201 people. The devastation that Typhoon Haiyan left in it's wake was overwhelming. With over 28,000 injured, 1,726 missing, 431 million dollars worth of destruction to agriculture and 447 million to buildings, this was the second deadliest typhoon ever recorded in the Philippines. Following the storm, aid came quickly but because of the vast amount of need for shelter, food, water and cleanup there were certain areas where people began looting to find food. Thousands fled into Manila as certain cities became unsafe because of prisoners who had escaped. Countless organizations and individuals stepped up and gave what they could. Whether money or personally flying over with teams to aid in cleanup, distribution of clean water, food and shelter. Many who witnessed the aftermath of the Typhoon saw houses that were completely destroyed, it reminded them of Matthew 7:24-25 which says "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." The teams were able to talk with those who had lost everything they had ever put their trust and hope in and encourage them to place their trust in Christ who would never leave them or forsake them no-matter the size of storm this life brings.

    I have the opportunity to travel with a team to the Philippines where we will be working alongside U-Turn for Christ on the island of Samar in the Philippines. My team consists of about 8 from New Horizon Christian Fellowship and the remaining from a Calvary Chapel in California. There is still a vast amount of destruction and a severe need for cleanup, construction, and prayer. We will travel to Samar knowing that we will be there to serve, to do anything that is needed.

    I am so thankful that God has given me this opportunity to serve those who have had their very lives turned upside down. Thousands of people are now orphans, widows, homeless, many have lost everything. It has now been four months since the typhoon, there is still a tremendous need for clean water, food, shelter and just someone to be there to talk to. Put yourself in their shoes, you had a family, a house, and friends, but now your family, your friends and your house have all disappeared. You witnessed the death of your family. But you can't do anything to bring them back. Everything you have every trusted in, everyone you have loved, everything you have called home is now gone.

    There is such a great need for the gospel to be shared in the Philippines, people are in such a desperate place, searching for the one thing that will give them satisfaction, someone who will accept them for who they are, someone who will love them no-matter what they do and who is radically in love with who they are and believes that they can do it! I am so excited to be able to be in the position to share who God is what Jesus did and that they are loved by God!

    Would you partner with me both in prayer and financially? The cost is $2,200 would you take the step and be a part of sharing the Love of Jesus with those who's lives have been tragically shaken? Would you commit to and partner with me? Can you give $100? $10? $200?  Do you know anyone who would be excited to give and pray? Please share this message on Facebook, Twitter, or email it to your friends and family!

Here are two ways to give and support me:

• By clicking on this -> 'Donate' or by going to my blog and clicking on the donate button at the top. www.jordannickel.blogspot.com
• By mailing your check to: 

New Horizon Christian Fellowship 
1909 Homedale Rd, 
Klamath Falls, OR 97603
Remember to mention that it's for 'Jordan Nickel - Philippines Mission'

Thank you so much for your prayers and financial support! Here are a few specific ways you can be prayer for us while we're in the Philippines:

• Health: There are more germs, viruses and diseases that are spreading because of the vast destruction of the water, sewage and trash. 
• Strength: Pray that we would continually remember that God is our strength and support. 
• Continual awareness of the leading of the Holy Spirit as we minister to those in need. 
• Safe Travels: We are flying out of LA as well as our travels around the island of Samar. 
• Softening of Hearts: Pray that the Holy Spirit would minister to those who are in desperate need of the Lord. 
• Pray that we would be willing to step out in boldness and not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

God Bless You,
- Jordan Nickel


I am truly grateful for your support and I am praying that God would bless you as you give and pray.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to me in person please send me an email at jordananickel77@yahoo.com

Here is a video of some of the destruction in the Philippines and the current need:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LFV3YqZAFU

Beyond our galaxy....

From September to December, these past three months have transformed my life, I've been able to spend every day digging into the Word. In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God and the Word was with God and the Word is Jesus. I'm going to share with you what I've experienced these past three months.
        Imagine that you thought the earth was all there was, you could see the sun, moon and stars but didn't really know how big they really are or even what they are. You've lived your life, traveled around the earth and said to yourself "I did it, sure I didn't get to explore every single thing in minute detail but I've got the overall knowledge of everything there is in the world." You believe you've seen it all, and why not? Nobody has ever told you that there is more than just the earth. Then, someone tells you about how our sun isn't the only sun, compared to others ours is microscopic! Our galaxy isn't by itself, we aren't even in the center! There are so many stars and planets out there, we've only hit the tip of the iceberg! Don't allow what you see determine what you believe! Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it's not there!

          I came to this school seeing the earth feeling as if I've seen and know what Christianity is all about. I think my spirit knew that there was more but because I couldn't see it in outer space I didn't believe it. I'm not saying what we are doing is wrong, we were created to worship God but is there more that God has for us? Going through the day, praying for people, discipleship, these things are amazing and vital but is there more? We are a new Creation, but what does that really mean? New is something that has never been seen before, it's unique, there has never been anything like it! 

        I was moving forward, pursuing God but unaware that there is so much more beyond earth or even our galaxy. I found that just going day to day, living a good life, carrying the name of Jesus in everything I do. I think my spirit knew that there was something more, something beyond earth.  During the second week in October I studied the book of Romans, yeah I've read it before, many times. The life-changing transformation really came when I meditated and took the truth of the Word as it is. I'm not going to go into specifics of what God has revealed to me, except that what you think you know about God's ultimate plan for his Children is not even close. Well depending on what God has revealed to you.

        Jesus was not just an example for us, but also an example of us! Jesus said that we would do greater things than he did! Why not take that as truth? Healing, multiplying food, raising the dead, walking on water, transrelocating, walking through people and walls, what about the his transfiguration? All of this is what Jesus did and what God did for him and he was an example of who we are!
          What I really want you to see is that there is more than just what you can see, there is more than what you think there is. Continue to actively pursue God, it's a relationship and when we are seeking Him these things will come. 

Ask, ask and keep on asking. 

Seek, seek and keep on seeking. 

Knock, knock and keep on knocking. 

Pursue God with everything that you are, not 90% but 100% commit your entire life for His will! 

Don't let what you can't see determine what you believe.

Check out this video of the galaxies of the universe! It's amazing! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRosM1TLyLw

3 Weeks Remaining!

There are only three weeks left of this school, time has gone by fast, last week I studied 1st and 2nd Kings and this week will be a minor prophet. I get to pick which prophet to study which is cool, I am thinking about doing it on Malachi. Next week I will study Daniel and then then it's graduation week and flying time! It has been an awesome 9 weeks so far, I have really been studying a lot, I know before I came it was difficult to just sit and read for hours and hours especially when the information seems dry, but I've learned a new habit I guess, I can read and read and read and read and not get bored!
My entire belief system has changed dramatically, in so many small areas that as a whole it's a big change. I'm very excited to get back home to share what I have learned and to continue studying those things that I am still trying to understand. There is so much that I have just brushed the surface of, questions that I have of foundational building blocks of a Godly world-view. I can't share most of it because I'm still learning why it's true or why what we believe is wrong so that I can know what I believe and know that it is correct.
Thank you for all your prayers and support! Both myself and my two roommates from here in SA are in need of financial about ,$600 all together.  If you feel led to give me a financial gift you can send it to my home address:

Jordan Nickel
5189 Round Lake Rd,
Klamath Falls, OR 97601

Thank you so much!

-Jordan Nickel

The Book of Acts

Acts, wow what an amazing book! I finished Acts 2 days ago, it's so awesome to see the difference between the apostles as men who believed and then men who were filled with the Spirit of God! In my small group I came up with my proclamation from my observation which is in my vertical (shown below).
   My observation was a key word, assume. It was used when Paul was seen with a Gentile in Jerusalem and then a few days later Paul was again seen in the Temple, although not with the Gentile but with a few Jewish Disciples. The Jews who saw Paul said, "Look! It's Paul, he must have defiled the temple by bringing that Gentile with him into the temple. They spread the word that Paul defiled the temple and everyone starting beating Paul, fortunately there was a Roman Cohort nearby that intervened.
   They only beat Paul because they assumed he defiled the temple. Jesus said that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
   If your wondering why you keep mouthing off, why you keep swearing, why you can't trust that God is in control of your life, why you keep getting angry, why you keep lying, why you keep avoiding that thing that you know you should change? If you've tried to do things to stop that sin that you've done for years and haven't ever been able to control it, then you are going to be glad your reading this today!
  The answer lies in your heart. Everything you do, say, and think comes from what you believe in your heart. Whatever you put in will come out, if you put in lemons do you think your going to get orange juice? If you put in angry, language filled movies what do you think you will be saying and thinking? What are you filling your mind with? Ask this question; 'does this (song, movie, book, magazine, website, clique, lifestyle, friendship) glorify God?
  Out of the abundance the heart the mouth speaks. So if you want love to come out of your heart, and love to be something you can physically see in your actions, words, thoughts and attitude then you need to stay in the Word. You need to hide that word in your heart, memorize it, meditate on it. Then your heart will change, you will create new beliefs that will remove the old ones.
     But don't forget the old ones will try to get back in as much as they can. Remember if your bothered, and disgusted by some thought, or action that you used to do and don't want to do anymore then remember it's not you! You died and it's just your old man trying to get back in!
It takes time to change your beliefs, keep pushing and keep striving to become an exact replica of Christ. Here is a link to a book that goes deeper into the subject our beliefs, Change Your Heart, Change Your Life by Gary Smalley.


Here is my Horizontal, Verticals and Basic Required Information for Acts: