Friday, December 26, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #116: Looking ahead to 2015

“I am the new year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.  I am your next chance at the art of living. I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months. All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination.
All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires. All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have—these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose. I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "Behold, I make all things new." Unknown



On today's show Adam McNutt and I look ahead to 2015 and give you a Speaking4Him Ministry Update! Listen Here and Happy New Year! 

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, December 25, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #16: Forever Plaid

"Once upon a time, there were four guys (Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie) who loved to sing. They all met in high school when they joined the audiovisual club (1956). Discovering they shared an affection for music and entertaining, they got together and dreamed of becoming like their idols—the Four Aces, the Four Lads, the Four Freshmen, the Hi-los and the Crew Cuts. They rehearsed in the basement of Smudge’s family’s plumbing supply company. It was here they became Forever Plaid—a name that connects traditional values of family, home and harmony." 
Utah Shakespeare Festival


Rick Cerchia and Friends
Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I discussed a fun way to battle cabin fever!  We welcomed Rick Cerchia to the show to discuss Master Arts production Forever Plaid!

Listen Here and enjoy!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen 

Friday, December 19, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #115: Christmas Reflections: Promises Kept

“But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons” Galatians 4:4-5 


On today's show Adam McNutt and I continue to reflect on the promise of Christmas as we look at Promises Kept.  Listen Here and rejoice in God's faithfulness! May your Christmas be a celebration of The Best of Masters!  From us to you, Merry Christmas to you and yours! 

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #15: Roe V. Wade 40 Yours later...

 “Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9)

Ed Rivet
Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I talk with Ed Rivet Legislative Director of Right To Life of Michigan.  Listen Here and Pray about how you could speak out for live as we prepare for the 42nd anniversary of Roe V. Wade next month. 


If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen 

Friday, December 12, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #114: Christmas Reflections: Promises Made

"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14 


On today's show Adam McNutt and I reflect on the promise of Christmas.  Listen Here and enjoy! May your Christmas be a celebration of The Best of Masters!  From us to you, Merry Christmas to you and yours! 

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #14: Grace Through Suffering

 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Nick & Me at Faster Pastor 2013 
Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I talk with Nick Davidson about God's Faithfulness in the midst of suffering!  His son Jonny is doing well, but please keep praying!  

Listen Here and be Thankful!

Check Out Cinerrific!


If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen 

Friday, December 05, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #113: Russinize Your Day

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalm 16:11

Russ VanAllen
On today's show Adam McNutt and I sit down with Russ VanAllen, a local actor and the host of the Russinize Your Day show.  He currently appears in The Red Rock Mysteries on 91.3 WCSG for Keys for Kids Ministries!  We talk about his faith in Christ, acting, radio, and politics! Listen Here!

Check out Russinize Your Day! 

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, December 04, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #13: Bible Study Tips

 "It is impossible to enslave mentally or socially a Bible-reading people. The principles of the Bible are the groundwork of human freedom." Horace Greeley (1811-1872)




Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I talk about the importance of The Bible in The Christian Life and give you some tips to help you reach your goals in this essential area of life! 

Listen Here and leave your tips below!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Monday, December 01, 2014

A Dog And Her Boy

Lindy (and some of the family) in younger days!
In February of 2002 the New England Patriots began their current era of NFL dominance, the USA hosted the 16th Winter Olympics, and my brother Thaddaeus, my Grandparents and I went to Delaware, Ohio so that I could get a Successor Service Dog from Canine Companions for Independence.  My first dog Indy had passed away in April 2001.  I was excited because I had really enjoyed having a dog and my first dog had greatly increased my confidence and independence.

I watched the Patriots beat the Rams in the Super Bowl from the comfort of my hotel room and the next day I started training for my new dog.  One of the first things I did (along with the others in the class) was meet all the dogs who were waiting for matches.

When I met Lindy II, I joked that it would be funny if I got matched with Lindy.  3 days later it happened. Over the next week and a half we bonded with each other and our classmates.  Lindy proved to be very compliant and eager to please.  When I found out that Lindy had the same birthday (May 6) as Indy, I felt God was smiling!

Lindy I did a lot together.  We rode the bus, hung out at the mall, worked at summer camp, and a lot of other fun stuff.  We also went to church and many other family events like reunions and family vacations.  As result, many of my friends became Lindy’s friends.  Also, I believe having a dog helped me make new friendships and deepen others.  I am so thankful for those at CCI who have dedicated their lives to training these dogs that have changed my life and the lives of others like me.  I owe them a debt I can never repay.

One of Lindy’s biggest paw prints was left at Right To Life of Michigan.  She became the mascot of the Telemarketing department.  She was very popular to the point that when I came without her (a long story) people would ask how she was BEFORE they asked about me! :)

Lindy loved everybody and was always glad to go to work.  She loved the ice water that was put in her bowl every day.  She also loved it when she would be taken out by one of my gracious friends to save me a trip out in the cold.  Those times were a blessing to her and to me.  I will always be grateful to those inside (and outside) The Telemarketing Department at Right To Life for their fondness and care of both of us.

When I think about Lindy and her unconditional love for me, I feel humbled and blessed.  Taking care of her was the least I could do to express my gratitude to her and to God who gave her to me.  I am reminded of the verse “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” (Proverbs 12:10)  I am so glad God gave us the time he did.  Even after she retired, there was something comforting about looking over to her favorite spot and seeing her there looking back at me!

My amazing and precious Lindy passed away a little over a week ago. I am hurting but at peace. She was a great dog and was my right paw for 8 wonderful years. I was so glad to give her 3+ years of retirement. I can't put a chapter and verse to it and would never preach it, but I can't help but hope (at least in part) that she's in heaven. We had a great run and I will miss her lots! Please pray for me! For those of you who were her friends, she says thank you!

Lindy Gommesen
Beloved Companion
May 6, 2000-November 23, 2014

"Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father." (Matthew 10:29) Thank you father for entrusting her to me and giving her 4 more months than we thought!

Lindy, I love you so much!  Thanks for everything girl!  Rest in peace.

    
Speaking4Him,

Andrew Gommesen          

Friday, November 28, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #112: 5 Podcasts I Recommend

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)



Today on the show, I share 5 Podcasts I Recommend!  Listen Here and check out the links below!


If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #12: Trusting God in The New Year!

“Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
 In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.
 Another year of progress, another year of praise,
 Another year of proving Thy presence all the days." 

 Frances R. Havergal


Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I close out the year 2012 on The Speaking4Him Podcast.  We talk about New years traditions in our homes and around the world and about how important it is to trust God for the future!  Listen Here and if you are blessed by this timeless lesson please encourage your friends to listen too!  

What has God taught you about trust?  Share your thoughts below!
  If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Monday, November 24, 2014

Christian Bating

Jim Bob & Michelle Duggar
19 Kids and Counting is a very popular and polarizing television show.  Each Tuesday night TLC shares a slice of life in the Duggar household.  They have encouraged many people to embrace higher standard of living and have been a bold witness for Christ.  They have also attracted their share of haters.  People have call them “archaic” “out of touch” “stuck in the past” and perhaps worst of all “part of a cult.”

Over the last few weeks, they have been at the center of a controversy which stated when Jim Bob and Michelle recreated a kissing photo which Ben and Jessa (Duggar) Sewald shared.  They then encouraged other married couples to do the same.  I thought it was great idea and many of the stories and photos that streamed in were sweet testimonies of God’s faithfulness.

Before long some gay couples shared their photos on the page.  The Duggars removed them because they went against their beliefs.  Now many people are calling for their show to be canceled.  This is not very surprising.  After all, Jesus said “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)

This situation is only the latest in a growing trend in the media and popular culture—Christian baiting.  Simply put, many people will ask well-known Christian leaders or celebrities controversial questions and then act shocked by the way they answer.

Here are just a few examples:

A few months ago Kirk Cameron was asked his views on gay marriage.  Cameron, (who played Mike Sever on the 80’s sitcom Growing Pains) has been a conservative evangelical Christian for years.  Yet in the 2 or 3 weeks that followed his statements, you would have thought he had unleashed a profanity laced tirade that made the FCC blush.  He didn’t bash anyone and he didn’t even volunteer any information out of the blue.  He was asked a question and gave an honest answer, yet because it was not the popular answer he was labeled as evil.  It happened again recently when he was trying to support the biblical family.  He was quickly labeled as an oppressor of women.

Yesterday I saw an article about how the Robertsons of Duck Dynasty should have their show canceled because they are lying hypocrites.  The irony of the story is that most of the “scandalous” information it contained has already been admitted to and written about in their books.  Most importantly, it’s been repented of and forgiven by Jesus Christ.  They are not hiding.  Whatever you think of their show, they are bold for our Lord and because of that people are always looking for ways to discredit them.

One thing that really bugs me is when people dislike someone in the public eye, but insist on liking their page so that they can disparage anything they post. (As is the case on the Duggars pages)  The only way I can arrive at an understanding of this is to remember Jesus’ words “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)  Satan wants to destroy the testimony of believers and he uses other people to do it.

So what does this me for us?  I can’t speak for you but the examples of the Duggars, Kirk, (and his sister Candace, who deserves mention here as well) Cameron, and the Robertson family embolden me to continue to speak for the One who spoke for me, bearing in mind that I run the risk of being misunderstood and misquoted.  It’s worth noting this was par for the course for Jesus.

I want to encourage you to continue to shine for Jesus in this ever darkening world, keeping in mind the admonition of The Best of Masters.  “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)

Speaking4Him,


Andrew Gommesen          

Friday, November 21, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #111: Thanksgiving 2014

“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Ephesians 5:20


Today on the show, we pause to give thanks.  We share the story behind the hymn "Now Thank We All Our God."  Adam McNutt and I share what we are thankful for!  What are you thankful for? Listen Here and share your blessings below this post!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #11: Thoughts on Christmas: St Nick

"Oh holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of the dear Savior's birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till he appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!

Fall on your knees Oh hear the angel voices
Oh night divine Oh night when Christ was born
Oh night divine Oh night divine."Oh Holy Night





Today we throwback to a show where Adam McNutt and I close out our 2012 Christmas Celebration with my friends Dave and Iver!  We enjoy "The Night Before Christmas" read by Whitney Dykhouse!  We also learn about the real St. Nick! Listen Here

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Monday, November 17, 2014

The Black Thursday Debate

With November in full swing and snow on the ground, my excitement for the Holidays is ramping up.  I am really looking forward to Thanksgiving!  I am so thankful that our country has a day set aside to thank God for his manifold blessings.  Family, Great Food, and Lions football are all things that combine to make my Thanksgivings pretty special!  I am so blessed!
Sadly, over the last few years Black Friday has overshadowed the Thanksgiving holiday.  The internet and TV are already abuzz with the deals of the year.  Most disturbing of all to me is the emergence of Black Thursday.  It started kind of small a few years ago with some stores opting to open at midnight to get a jump on Black Friday.  Now many stores are opening in the early morning hours of Thanksgiving.  This is a sad commentary on our country.  It blows my mind that people would rather be out scoring the latest gadget than sleeping late and enjoying brunch and a late dinner with family.      
Before I go any further, let me be clear and say that I have had my share of enjoyable Black Friday experiences. (After 11am in case you are wondering.  I’m not one of the crazy ones.)  If you check your motives (and your nerves :) ) shopping on the biggest shopping day of the year can be a blast!
That being said, it is just plain wrong for Black Friday to creep into Thanksgiving.
Why?  First of all, it requires retail employees to be working rather than with their families on the holiday.  I know.  I know.  Some of you are saying “Retail workers shouldn’t complain because at least they have a job, and members of our military have it a lot harder than they do.”  I agree.  Our Armed Services deserve as much respect as we can muster.  I am very proud of my brothers who have served and those who continue to do so.
Black Thursday is actually an insult to those who serve.  Consider this.  Those Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who are away from their families for Thanksgiving are doing so for you!  Did you ever stop think about that?  They wrote a blank check to our country (and actually to all Americans) so that we could have the freedom to sit down to that turkey dinner with those we love.
On the other hand, the retail worker is only there because their employer can’t wait one more day to cash in, and because people are too eager to spend money they don’t have on things that will be obsolete in a few days.
More importantly, we need all need to take time to thank God for what He has given us.  Life is busier than it should be as it is.  It truly is a blessing that we live in a place where we can set aside a day to acknowledge the blessings of the Almighty.  Chiefest among these is the gift of Jesus Christ on the cross for our sins.
You may be saying “I can thank God every day.”  Yes you can.  And you should.  But much like the Children of Israel of old, I have a tendency to forget to be thankful for what God has done in my life.  Thanksgiving is a great time to count those blessings!  My prayer for you today is that you would join me in echoing the words of the Psalmist “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” (Psalm 107:8)
If you have to work retail this thanksgiving, do so as unto the Lord.  If not, I urge you to enjoy a day of thanks and blessing with your family. You will not regret it.  You will likely forget what you buy this year, but your loved ones won’t forget time spent with them.  There will still be shopping to do Friday. Thursday will be over soon enough.

Speaking4Him,

Andrew Gommesen

Friday, November 14, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #110: Sanders Family Christmas

“Now, which June Bug would you rather be? This nice June Bug flying in perfect circles or a nasty June Bug flying around helter-skelter getting into God knows what? Nobody? Well, I think I know the answer. And I’m here to tell you tonight that Jesus wants to run a thread from His mighty hand to the hind leg of your soul. Let Him tie it on tonight, and as long as we don’t pull too hard on that thread, it’ll get stronger and stronger. And thicker and thicker. And we will fly in perfect circles around God’s head in this hateful world and in the glorious world He has prepared for us beyond.” 

Vera Sanders

Dennis Sanders



Today on the Show Adam McNutt and I talk about Sanders Family Christmas the Christmas Show at Master Arts Theater for 2014  This is a fun Celebration of the true meaning of Christmas.  Listen Here and hear Pris McDonald talk about how this iconic family has become a staple at Master Arts! 

Get Tickets Here

The Show runs Nov 21 - Dec 14, 2014

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #10: Thoughts on Christmas: Traditions of Christmas

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7  





Today we throwback to a show we did on Christmas Traditions!  We talk about the Traditions around the world as well as those in the Gommesen and McNutt household and those of our guests as well. Listen Here and post some of your blessings below this post!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Monday, November 10, 2014

Election Aftermath

Ben Carson 
So the 2014 election is in the books.  Overall I think it went pretty well.  It seems that the country had a great desire for change and Republicans took The House and the Senate. My hope is that those who have been elected on conservative Judeo Christian Values will stick to their guns.  Be assured that I realize that elections are not an end-all be-all.  That being said, I think it is important to realize that there are other countries whose citizens only wish they had the right to choose their leadership.
Here are some disappointing facts about last weeks’ election
·         In many counties, less than 50% of eligible voters cast a ballot.  When you consider the founders vision of a government “of the people, for the people, and by the people” this is a sad commentary.  It is important for citizens to realize the sacrifices that were was made so that they can have the right
·         Many state wide offices and state level offices went fairly conservative, yet we elected yet another ultra-liberal United States Senator who may very well be in office for 30 years.  How did this happen?
That leads into my next observation.  A few days after the election Ben Carsen announced (basically) that he’s running for President in 2016.  I know there’s a long time between now and then and I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself, but I wanted to address one thing that is already bothering me since this came out on social media.  People are already saying he’s not electable.
I just want to say this. WE THE PEOPLE decide who is electable.  Unless we get that through our heads we will continue to put up subpar semi-conservative candidates who won’t be good at articulating their views and will be wishy-washy when it comes to embracing godly standards in their quest for the White House.
We have a great opportunity in our country to choose our leaders and I think we need to get behind men who seek to honor God.  We may just find that someone “unelectable” can in fact get elected.  I know the world is waxing worse and worse, but to me that is a call to shine even brighter for Jesus Christ. 
In closing remember that “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” (Proverbs 29:2)  What does that mean to you? 
Speaking4Him,

Andrew Gommesen       

Friday, November 07, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #109: Grace Unplugged

“You always wanted your life to be about God.  These days it’s all about you.” Grace Unplugged




Today on the Show Adam McNutt and I talk about the movie Grace Unplugged.  This movie is a great example of the Grace of God and an excellent selection for a family movie night!  Listen Here and then watch it with your family!  It deals with some adult themes in a VERY tastful manner, so be prepared to have some important discussions with you children.

Get the DVD Here!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, November 06, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #9: Thoughts on Christmas: History of Christmas

“And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever. And it shall come to pass, when ye be come to the land which the Lord will give you, according as he hath promised, that ye shall keep this service. And it shall come to pass, when your children shall say unto you, What mean ye by this service?”

Exodus 12:24-26



Today we throwback to my very first Christmas Podcast!  We talk about the history of Christmas and how holidays give us a chance stop and remember what God has done in our lives!     Listen Here and post some of your blessings below this post!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Monday, November 03, 2014

It's Her Choice...Or is it?

Brittney Maynard chose to end her life this past weekend.  She was diagnosed last spring with stage 4 glioblastoma.  No doubt she struggled a lot with pain in her final days.  She made headlines because she chose to take advantage of Oregon’s “Death With Dignity” law.   From a purely human perspective I understand.  I also empathize to a degree because I have dealt with my share of physical pain.  I can understand why she would just want it to end.  Who wouldn’t?
Humans hate pain and suffering.  Our first reaction to it is to ask “How can I get out of it?”  I know. I have been there before.  As a follower of Jesus Christ however, I have discovered that sometimes God chooses to walk with you through it.  Sadly we don’t often learn or grow as much in the easy and smooth times of life.
Suffering brings growth.  The Apostle Paul understood this.  He wrote “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;” (Philippians 3:10) 
Paul in fact takes it a step further.  Not only does suffering bring growth, it can be a tool that God uses to increase our effectiveness for Christ. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
Is suffering fun and enjoyable?  Absolutely not.  But I wish with all my heart that Brittney had known the Lord and allowed Him to work though her situation.  God is good all the time.  If you are suffering today I hope you will trust Jesus to walk you though it.
As I was looking through the social media response to this story the same refrain leapt off the page time and time again. “It’s her choice.”  Is it?  I think the answer to this question is the crux of the matter. 
If you believe that we are here by chance, the product of millions of years of evolution, and merely the most advanced member of the animal kingdom, it could be easy to make this determination.  After all, if I am here by chance and my life doesn’t have a purpose, ending my life (especially in the face of suffering) is a perfectly logical conclusion.
I am so glad that the Word of God shatters that lie with this truth “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” (Genesis 1:26-27)  We were made in the image God.  I know that we who are followers of Christ know this in our heads, but how often do we really step back to consider the ramifications of this amazing fact?
Not only are we made in the image of God, but if we are believers we are bought with Christ’s precious blood.  When we trusted Him, we surrendered control of our lives to Him. “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” (I Corinthians 6:19-20)  He paid for us, so it is up to Him to direct our lives and determine the time of our death.
This leads us to the understanding that God has a plan and purpose for each of our lives. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)     Since I came to understand this truth, I have seen God do amazing things in my life.
In closing, let me just say that I understand that no end of life issues are easy.  No one wants to suffer or to see suffering in the lives of their loved ones.  My prayer for you is that you will realize that God never promised us that life would be easy, but he did promise “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5)  He always keeps his promises!

Speaking4Him,
Andrew Gommesen

Friday, October 31, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast: #108: Election 2014

"God commands you to choose for rulers, ‘just men who will rule in the fear of God.’”

— Noah Webster (1758-1843) Father of the Dictionary & American Patriot




Today on the Show Adam McNutt and I talk about how important it is to get out to to vote Tuesday, November 4, 2014 and things to keep in mind as you go to the polls!  Listen Here!

Click Here for more info on voting!

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, October 30, 2014

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #8: Our Beautiful Secret

"Almost thirty years ago the doctors told Jonathan’s parents not to expect him to live long. Born with cerebral palsy, practically mute and perpetually challenged, what’s a man to do?  Everything." Our Beautiful Secret


Today we throwback to my very first interview on the Podcast!  Angela Peavey talkes about her film Our Beautiful Secret!  Listen Here and realize that ALL life has value!  

Get the DVD HERE!  

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Friday, October 24, 2014

Speaking4Him Podcast #107: Praying For The Persecuted!

“Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.” (Hebrews 13:3)


Today on the Show Adam McNutt and I talk about how important it is to Pray For The Persecuted   Church. Listen Here and take some time to pray for those in chains for the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Check Out The Voice of The Martyers and don't forget The International Day of Prayer For The Persecuted on Sunday November 2, 2014!    

If you have any questions or feedback check out our Facebook Page or Leave a Voice Mail by clicking on the Microphone at the Right Hand Side of This Page!

Also check out my ebook Men of Valor now for sale!  

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen