The friends we choose to surround ourselves always have a great influence on who we are and determine who we will become.  Jesus wants to bring us life (John 10:10) and we must be quick to obey His voice even when it concerns our friendships.

Many times we are afraid to commit everything to Jesus because we don’t want to give Him everything, but in order to fulfill His call for our lives, we must be able to surrender and trust Him.  This type of mindset can affect our relationships.

Friends can either expose us to the ‘flow’ of death that leads to destruction or we can be exposed to the ‘flow’ of life which leads to incredible blessing!

Here’s what we can do!

1.  Re-Connect with God.
2.  Disconnect unhealthy relationships…now!
3.  Connect with people who have shared convictions & values.

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In this podcast, I share the truth that no one can be you like you!  Frustration is sure when we try to be someone or something that God didn’t create us to be.  But if we really want to live the “Upgraded Life” we must learn how to embrace who we are and what God has called us to be.

Psalm 100:3 (KNJV)  Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves.

God has so many awesome things in store for us as we refuse to try and be the following:

- The Me I pretend to be.
- The Me I think I should be.
- The ME others want me to be.
- The ME I’m afraid that God wants.

God wants to bless us in amazing ways, but we must be willing to get focused about His plan for us.  Jesus didn’t come to give us a set of rules to follow.  He came to show us how to truly live! He came to upgrade our lives!  Let’s be the “Me I was Made to Be”!

John 10:10 (NCV)  A thief comes to steal and kill and destroy, but I came to give life—life in all its fullness.

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What an incredible experience Impact was this year! These guys know how to make it happen!

After being a part of Impact for the last several years, it was obvious that the team has gone to the next level.

From the set design to worship to media, the experience they created for students was off the charts.

As the speaker, I so appreciate the desire these guys have to be excellent and allow the presence of Jesus to influence the hearts of the campers. It was easy to preach to these teens. They were hungry for God and passionate. Their energy and enthusiasm was definitely creating great momentum for the services!

The youth pastors and leaders were so awesome too! Getting to spend a few moments with them everyday really encouraged me. There’s just something about being together with yp’s. We can all relate with one another, build each other up, and share a few laughs! Thanks guys!

A special thanks goes out to my good friend Bennett Smith. Along with his wife Kim, they have been faithful to the vision God has given them for Impact, and only heaven knows the difference they’ve made! Keep up the great work!

If you attended Impact, I’d love to hear what God did in your life! Post a comment here!

Doug Kruzan is one of my great friends in life. Along with his dad, Pastor Gary, they lead a great team and provide an exceptional experience!

Every year I go, it is clear to see they take it to a higher level. At Summer Scream, I feel free to be myself. They make me feel like a million bucks! There is such a spirit of excellence on everything they do!

Summer Scream is all about kids experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power in a rich way! The leaders are the best! So kind, humble, and true pro’s. They are the true heroes!

I’m blessed to have been a part of Summer Scream and look forward to the future with great expectation! Keep up the great work!