One of my favorite pastimes is working in the yard—especially the backyard. No matter where we’ve lived, I’ve always treated that space as a kind of sanctuary. I love the whole process: landscaping, planting gardens, and even the simple rhythm of mowing the grass. If you’ve ever visited my home, you already know—my backyard is … Continue reading Mud & Grace
“Woe is me, for I am ruined! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.” (Isaiah 6:5) We have an inconceivably great God. He is without error—perfect in every way. He is without equal; there … Continue reading One King Rules Them All
In December 2014 I received an important callA few months later by Dr. Crocker I was installedAs the Superintendent of the Kentucky DistrictAfter three and a half years I remain quite optimistic I heard all the rumors right out of the gateAbout how they run DSs right out of this stateIt didn’t take long to learn … Continue reading Ode To The Kentucky District
Recently, I received a text message from an old friend. Although the message was only two sentences long it jolted me in a good way. The words were powerful; tears filled my eyes instantly. It took me back in time to a meaningful experience I shared with someone I love. At that moment God reminded … Continue reading As Good As It Gets
In the Garden, God told Adam and Eve they could partake of everything except for one tree: The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God supplied all they would ever need for life at its fullest. Yet, for love to truly be reciprocated there had to be an alternative; it was that one … Continue reading Reflecting His Image
Recently, I had a very vivid dream. Although I dream often, it is seldom that I wake up because the dream is so realistic that it startles me. However, on this particular night, I awoke feeling overwhelmed with the presence of God. I had tears in my eyes and a deep sense of joy in … Continue reading Dreaming Dreams
In middle school and part of high school, I was on the wrestling team. I was good at it. There was a technique rarely used called the “barbwire.” It became my finishing move. During that time I was consumed with wrestling. It was my identity. Later in high school, I took an interest in playing … Continue reading Identity Crisis
God ordains authority. If you’re not submitting to the authority structures in your life you are opposing God’s will for your life. As long as you oppose God’s will for your life you’ll never walk in the fullness of God’s promises for your life. We are all in a fight; it’s a spiritual battle. We … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 2)
When my son, Jake, was a teenager he and I took Brazilian Jujitsu; he loved it (and was naturally good at it). Jujitsu is a grappling sport; meaning it’s a lot like wrestling, except instead of pinning someone, you’re trying to submit them. The workouts were intense; the first several weeks I thought I was … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 1)
Father, we humble ourselves before you today in the name of Jesus. We praise you because you’re worthy of all glory and honor. You’re a good Father. You’re a God who makes all things possible. You make miraculous promises that always flow from your goodness and grace. We praise you, Father, because you provide love, … Continue reading Prayer Of Adoration
Brian L Powell 