Friday, July 31, 2015

Speaking4Him Podcast #147: Free Form Friday in July

“But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my LORD, and I know not where they have laid him.  And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.  Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.” (John 20:11-16)
. C. Austin Miles
Today on the show Adam McNutt and I share the Hymn Story for "In the Garden." The Whole Chef talks about our need for salt.  We share something special for moms, talk about desserts around the US and talk once again about earthquakes in MI   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!

Show Notes:



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

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #40: Bread For Life

"And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." John 6:35


Batholomew Gommesen
Today on Throwback Thursday Adam McNutt and I welcome my brother Bartholomew Gommesen to the studio to talk about his new business Bread For Life. (He has since rebranded as The Whole Chef)   He talks to us about his faith in Christ, his background in food, and why he started this business! Listen Here and think about what God wants you to do!

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, July 27, 2015

Nashville/Smithville 2015

During the last week of June I took a road trip Nashville/Smithville TN.  I visit Tennessee almost every year and I always enjoy my time there. I usually go, spend a few days visiting with friends, and preach at their church. This year I decided to expand the trip by a few days and spend some time in Nashville.  My hope was to make ministry connections and get more done for the miles traveled.

Betty & Wally
When I first started planning for this trip, I had no idea how the plans would come together. Funding, traveling companions, and finally a car accident were obstacles which I watched God remove one by one. It was so encouraging to be reminded once again that I had friends and family in full support of what God had called me to do. In approximately three months I raised enough money to pay for the trip in full and still had money left over at the end.

My brother Nathanael, my friend Bob, and I left Grand Rapids at 5:00 PM on the evening of June 24. We rolled into Nashville at about 1:30 AM central time. We were tired but grateful that God has given us journey mercies throughout the trip. Despite the fact that I do not like to travel at night it was a relatively pleasant experience.

The first night was once again a test of trust in God’s faithfulness. As I alluded, to already I had seen God go before us in the planning and execution of this trip to this point. So when the hotel room was not what I anticipated, I should have rested in the fact that God had a plan. Instead I started to get irritated because in my mind there was no way I can go through Monday morning without a handicap assessable room, especially since this was a business trip and I wanted to be looking my best as I fulfill my business obligations.

After sleeping three hours the first night, we drove to Franklin Tennessee to visit the Wally show at Way FM. It was a blessing. The opportunity to meet people whose radio ministry had been a blessing to me for two years was amazing! The best part was they were just as genuine off mic as they are on the air each day and I found myself wishing we could just throw on a rerun and go grab but a bite to eat.

Zach
Wally and his entire staff were very easy to talk to and I enjoyed watching the organized chaos that is a national morning radio show. Afterword, I got the opportunity to interview Wally. It was very exciting! I look forward to sharing the interview in a couple of weeks on my podcast. If you have not already I hope that you will take the opportunity to subscribe to the Speaking4Him Podcast on iTunes or Stitcher so that you do not miss this fun and interesting interview. Wally is the real deal and when you listen that will come through.

After we were done at the station, we went back to our hotel and sought assistance in finding new arrangements for the remainder of the trip. At first it seemed as though nothing could be done, but soon they were calling around to other hotels and by that evening we had a new room at a different hotel which ended up feeling like a major upgrade. God had done it again!

One of the most amazing things that I’ve learned about God throughout my Christian walk is that some of his greatest blessings come despite the fact that I recently complained. And I am so thankful that he remembers that I am dust and loves me anyway!

The next two days were spent largely sightseeing around the area. Once again this is not my favorite thing and I would’ve been happier if the time had been filled up with ministry -related meetings, but God often puts us in situations to stretch is out of our comfort zone and into put others first! We visited the country music Hall of Fame and the Cheekwood Gardens. We also went to a Civil War Museum and a resale shop owned by one of the guys who host American pickers (although the resale shop wasn’t much to write home about). I’m glad I put aside my anxiety because each of these places was a fun experience.
Cotton Candy!

On Saturday night I visited with the Mahan family who are longtime friends.  Mr. Mahan met my dad in Bible School and is the Pastor of the church I would speak at the next day.  They picked up their daughter Rachel from the Nashville airport and we met at the Golden Corral restaurant. It was a good time of fun and fellowship. I hadn’t seen Rachel in years and it was great to catch up and reminisce. We even enjoyed cotton candy! I also met their daughter Christina’s fiancé. It’s such a blessing to see God working in their lives. 


The next day was Sunday and we traveled an hour and so that I can preach at Faith Baptist Church in Smithville Tennessee. I really appreciate the saints of this church and their love and generosity is much appreciated! After church, we went out for Chinese and then over to the Mahan’s for more fellowship. It was a blessing to see all three of their children for the first time in approximately 16 years. It was very good to see their son Jon and to meet his wife and three children. It was a blessing to talk about our mutual love of the Scriptures and our Lord Jesus Christ.

The next day was Monday the 29th and we spent the day on the road.  We arrived home around 10:00pm.  I am very thankful that we had no travel related issues.  God is so good!
    
I’m not sure what God has planned for my future but this trip was a pleasant reminder that I’m on the right path! God never promised that life would be easy but he did promise that if I trust him he will direct my path. "Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:5  I can’t wait to see where he takes me next!

Speaking4Him,


Andrew Gommesen 

Friday, July 24, 2015

Speaking4Him Podcast #146: Gimme Shelter

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.  Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you." Jeremiah 29:11-12


Today Adam McNutt and I review the film "Gimme Shelter."  We talk about how every life is a part of God's plan!  Listen Here and seek God's plan for your life!

Note: I recommend this film for those 15 and older.

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!

Check out Gimme Shelter!

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

Keep Serving The Best of Masters,

Andrew Gommesen

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #39: 4th of July!

"We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."

The Declaration of Independence



Today on Throwback Thursday Join Adam McNutt and me as we discuss the birth of our Nation!  My hope is that you will be encouraged by what the founders have done for us and the importance of defending liberty!  God bless you, and God bless the United States of America!!!  Listen Here and be thankful!  

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, July 17, 2015

Speaking4Him Podcast #145: Crazy Love-Bookclub

“The book you have in your hand Crazy Love may just be the most challenging book outside of God’s Word will read this year.” Chris Tomlin

Naomi Van Harn
Today on the show Adam McNutt and I welcome back Naomi Van Harn as we discuss the book Crazy Love by Francis Chan.  Listen Here as we talk about what it means to serve God wholeheartedly. What is He calling you to do?

Check Out The Book Crazy Love!

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, July 16, 2015

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #38: Issues Update

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The Declaration of Independence



Throwback Thursday! On This Episode Adam McNutt and I talk about some of the most pressing moral issues of our day. Abortion, Gun Control, and Gay Marriage.  What does the Bible say and How should Christians engage their culture?

Note: Mature topics are addressed.  This program is best for those 12 and older.  Listen Here and share with others!  

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, July 10, 2015

Speaking4Him Podcast #144: Summer 2015 Issues Update!

 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." James 1:5




Today on the show Adam McNutt and I discuss some hot-button issues which are front and center in our culture today.  We address Same-Sex Marriage and Homeschooling/Parental Rights and take a sneak peak at the 2016 Presidential Election!  Listen Here and please share! 

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, July 09, 2015

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #37: Going To The Fair!

 "He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end."Ecclesiastes 3:11

Hope And Charity
Throwback Thursday! On This Episode Adam McNutt and I welcome my sisters Hope and Charity Gommesen to talk about their involvement in the Montcalm County Fair and what it can show us about God! Listen Here and thank God for His Creation!

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, July 03, 2015

Speaking4Him Podcast #143: Aloha with Brennon Cabral

“My weakness, that is, my quadriplegia, is my greatest asset because it forces me into the arms of Christ every single morning when I get up.”
Joni Eareckson Tada
Brennon Cabral
Today Brennon Cabral joins us from the island of Oahu to share his exciting testimony of God's grace and overcoming the challenges of life!  Listen Here and let God work in your life!

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, July 02, 2015

Throwback Thursday: Speaking4Him Podcast #36: Father's Day

“Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.” Proverbs 4:1 

Throwback Thursday is back! On This Episode Adam McNutt and I welcome our fathers Michael Gommesen and Kevin McNutt to the show to talk about the joys and trials of fatherhood. So thankful for my father! Listen Here and be encouraged! :)

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

Wednesday, July 01, 2015

Judicial Déjà Vu


Last Friday our nations Supreme Court by a razor thin margin of 5 to 4 struck down any remaining same-sex marriage bans as unconstitutional. Thus in effect it became the law of the land. I want to start out by saying that although this grieves me greatly it was not surprising and did not send me into a panic. First of all, I was 99.9% sure that the court would make this decision. This did not happen overnight. Thus I was (as much as is possible with something like this) ready for it.

Secondly, it is worth noting that we as believers should have no expectation that the world would side with us on this crucial matter. There is no way for the carnal man to completely understand the divine picture of marriage and the parameters which God has put on it. If they do not love God why would they care about the way he wants us to live?

With these things being said allow me to share with you what does concern me. It saddened me a great deal to see the number of people that I know who claim the name of Christ who voiced approval of this decision. Many people use the excuse that we are all sinners and we shouldn’t judge. I have a couple questions for you. First of all, if you’re going to use the argument that we are all sinners are you not in fact admitting that same-sex relationships are part of a sinful lifestyle? If they are, why should they be recognized by our country (or perhaps more importantly by its Christians) as a normal way of life? If they are not, the “We are all sinners” argument doesn’t fly. You can’t have it both ways.

Many people have spent a lot of time in the last few days trying to reason away the passages from both the Old and New Testament that speak of this issue. Instead of going into major detail on these, I would simply ask you to provide me with the passage that you think shows God’s approval of these actions.

Through my study of the Bible, I have found that whenever marriage is mentioned it is talked about in the context of a man and a woman. Jesus said that God made men and women and that the reason a man should leave his household was to be joined to his wife in a one flesh relationship.  “And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,  And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?” (Matthew 19:4 –5) In this passage Jesus is quoting from Genesis and sharing God’s only intended plan for marriage.

Another argument people make is that if we actually lived by the Bible we would be polygamists and we should all own slaves. I just want to state here that just because polygamy and slavery were mentioned in the Bible that does not constitute God’s approval of either. If you read the stories of those in the Bible who practice polygamy you will often find that it carried with it its own penalties. Wives fighting amongst each other, sons of one wife killing sons of another or other undesirable results.

As far as slavery goes, much of what is written about that is dealing with how you should respond if you are a slave not necessarily how moral or holy it is to own them. It is important for us to remember that stories in the Bible do not shy away from the faults of those who stories they tell. The men and women of the Bible dealt with sin and had flaws just like the rest of us.

The Bible speaks clearly against homosexuality. “Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:  Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.  For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.  And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,” (Romans 1:24-30)

People often say that homosexuality is only one sin in many and that we who don’t practice it are just as guilty as those that do and that would be absolutely correct. When I look at the list of sins that are contained in the above passage I’m reminded just how guilty I am. I have no merit of my own to stand on and my only hope for heaven is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.

That being said, there is a difference between realizing that you are in a lifelong battle against sin and trusting God to make you more like Jesus each day, and simply accepting a sin as normal behavior. That is the major difference between what is going on with same-sex marriage and how we deal with other sins in our life. It’s not the sin that is worse, but rather the acceptance of that sin.

You may choose to disagree with what God says on this topic, but you can’t deny that He said it. I would encourage you to take a good long look at what the Bible truly has to say on this issue and ask God to reveal his truth to you.

Another thing that greatly distresses me is the amount of power that we as a nation have bequeathed to the Supreme Court. In 1973, they decided that a woman’s right to choose preempted the right to life. It wiped out all previous restrictions which the citizens of the United States had placed on this procedure. There was brief mention about the age of viability but since it was never established this became a blank check to obtain an abortion through all nine months of pregnancy.

As I sit here in the summer of 2015 I feel a very definite case of judicial déjà vu. Once again the Supreme Court has wiped out all previous decisions by the citizens of the United States in one single vote. They did so by once again conjuring up something in the Constitution that was not there. In the words of Chief Justice John Roberts “Celebrate the achievement of a desired goal. Celebrate the opportunity for a new expression of commitment to a partner. Celebrate the availability of new benefits,” he read from his opinion as crowds outside the court’s doors cheered the decision. “But do not celebrate the Constitution. It had nothing to do with it.”

I have a final question for those celebrating the Supreme Court decision. Is it only all right for the Supreme Court to decide things you agree with? What if they outlaw guns next or something else you hold dear? What will you do then? We as citizens are being given less and less of a voice in our government. We must be willing to stand up for what is right. This is the cornerstone of liberty.

In closing please know that I understand that our only true hope is found in Jesus Christ, but it’s worth repeating here that William Wilberforce was able to see the end of slavery in Great Britain because he was willing to serve Christ faithfully within the parliament. We must seek to serve the Lord wherever he has planted us and to remember the glorious truth “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…” (Psalm 33:12)

Speaking4Him,


Andrew Gommesen