tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63870702843952200522024-03-18T19:53:03.920-07:00Bigger Than YourselfRaise your voice. Follow Him. Dream big.Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-60717290951697408382012-01-03T04:50:00.000-08:002012-01-03T04:50:29.849-08:00What 2012 Has in Store for MeWell, it's been almost a year since I've actually updated this blog. So, New Years Resolution #10 is to journal and blog more often. So, here it goes :)<br />
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I don't know if it's because turning "30" is looming ahead of me this year or I just have a better outlook starting the year, but, I got so excited, I sat down and wrote New Years Resolutions. I've been thinking a lot about the upcoming year and I know changes are coming, but, good ones. I am very excited about what God has in store and what He longs to walk me through and teach me this year. I really want to be as open to Him and others as I can this year, trying new things, while being more intentional with every opportunity I'm given.<br />
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One of my resolutions is being more intentional & specific in my prayers for my children. Someone had given me a handout of prayers from "The Power of a Praying Parent", so I have started on Day 1 and now on Day 3 praying through scriptures for them. So, far securing protection, feeling loved & accepted, and establishing an eternal future. It's already been so rich! It has also given me more patience with them and allowed me to make the most of my teaching times with them through good things, discipline, etc.<br />
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I have also missed reading books! I just could NOT fit that in much this year. If it wasn't the Bible, I didn't have much, if any, time to read it. But, I finished a book in a day last week and that got me very jazzed! So, if you have any recommendations, please send them my way.<br />
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And, over all, I just want to be more like Jesus. I want God to shape, mold, teach, stretch me in all facets of my life (scary prayer, I know!) that I may truly know Jesus and be able to love, serve, and truly see people the way He does today.<br />
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Well, it looks like I have much ahead of me. I better hop to it. Happy New Year!Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-72772494002407339382011-02-02T09:54:00.000-08:002011-02-02T09:54:39.230-08:00What Will You Choose?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Wikipedia defines "worry" as </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">an emotion it is experienced as anxiety or concern about a real or IMAGINED issue, usually personal issues such as health or finances or broader ones such as environmental pollution and social or technological change.</span></i><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Yes, I capitalized "imagined" because I have found myself worrying about the things that have not even occurred and probably never will. I never thought I was a big worrier, but, something I realized: It's easy to say we're not much of a worrier especially when things are comfortable and going well, but, what will we do when the direction of our lives change a bit, and we're forced to truly trust God for what we don't necessarily understand? Will we trust Him because He's proven Himself faithful? Will we trust Him because He says He has plans to prosper & not harm us - plans for a hope and future </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=jeremiah%2029:11&version=NIV"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Jeremiah 29:11</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">)? Will we trust His Word? OR, will we let ourselves spiral into a pit of worry that ends up choking the life & joy out of us? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well, let's just say I've REALLY had to put this into practice recently. And, after reading </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%206:25-34&version=MSG"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Matthew 6:25-34 </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">with our missional community and asking them to pray for me, I've been put in several circumstances this week where I was faced with a choice: to worry or not to worry. I really tried to "take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ" </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20corinthians%2010:5&version=NIV"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(2 Corinthians 10:5) </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">which for me meant that as I was faced with these decisions, I immediately prayed and recalled the character of God and certain scriptures I have memorized. It really helped! This led me to the question, "what is the source of most of the things I worry about?" and it was COMFORT! I tend to desire comfort whether it's financially, relationally, emotionally, physically, etc., I will usually choose comfort instead of denying myself for the sake of others & the kingdom. I'm just not okay with that!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last week, I was listening to a song about the cross, </span><i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlrrHoM_tUU"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This Is Our God</span></a></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, and I felt the Lord gently whisper to me, “Laura, what about the cross was comfortable for me?” That hit me like a ton of bricks! I am only here today because of what Christ endured on the cross, and I sit here wanting to just feel comfortable? Really?!? It sounds awful, especially when you put it on paper. I also began to read </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_600881610">Philippians 2:1-11</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%202:1-11&version=MSG"> </a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">out of The Message – now that is humbling. If we are to become more like Jesus, this means we set our comforts, privileges, & selves aside for the sake of the kingdom. What does that mean for you today? Will your answer be “yes” when you feel the Holy Spirit nudge you to say something, ask a question, invite someone in your home, serve the homeless, pray for your enemies, etc.? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My prayer for us today: <i>We will choose to listen to the Holy Spirit's whispers, and our answer would always be, "YES" even if it causes us to be a little uncomfortable for the sake of the gospel.</i></span></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-65055200294939019752011-01-10T07:49:00.001-08:002011-01-10T09:27:09.525-08:00Embracing a New SeasonWell, it has been FOREVER since I've updated my blog, so first New Year's Resolution of 2011 is I'll do it more often than once every 9 months ;0 But, as I sit here staring out the window at the beautiful snow (the first of 2011!), the words that come to mind are "a new season". That could possibly be because I was listening to Nicole Nordeman's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dwpdZdvCl8">"Every Season"</a> song this morning.<div><br />
</div><div>As some of you may or may not be aware, I have resigned from my job as the Worship Associate at a local church to join my husband, Ryan Hairston, full time in our new ministry - <a href="http://wakenministries.org/">Waken Ministries</a>. I will continue leading worship as the Lord allows opportunities to come my way, and I will be posting those dates on my <a href="http://laurahairston.com/">website</a> as they come around. Also, we have recently started our first Missional Community with a group of 6 other families and we are excited about what the Lord will do through His people.</div><div><br />
</div><div>As I enter this season of change, I pray the Lord will continue to allow me to see Him in everything - good or bad. As the song says - <i>still I notice you when change begins and I am braced for colder winds. I will offer thanks for what has been and what's to come. You are autumn</i>. As we embark on this time, it may not all be easy or rosy, but I pray I will be able to offer thanks in any circumstance. I also love the next verse that says - <i>even now in death, You open doors for life to enter. You are winter.</i> I will miss my job & the people I was surrounded by every day, so I'll need to grieve that, BUT, I know God is bringing about a new life on this other side and I am waiting in anticipation for God to truly use Ryan and myself to waken people to the mission of God. And, the last phrase that sums up my prayer for me personally says: <i>So it is with You and how You make me new with every season's change</i>. <i>And so it will be as you are recreating me</i>. I know that I will walk through some hard days, some fun, adventurous & fulfilling days, but, through it all God will be changing ME more into the likeness of His Son, Jesus. So, yes, today, I will step out in faith for that!</div><div><br />
</div><div>This weekend's worship time was a great set for me to truly declare a few things to the Lord:</div><div><br />
</div><div><i>- I won't worry about to tomorrow, I'm giving You my fears and sorrows. Where You lead me, I will follow. I'm trusting in what You say. Today is the day</i></div><div><i>- My heart will sing no other name. Jesus, Jesus</i></div><div><i>- I am restless till I rest in You</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Embracing a new season,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Laura</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, LORD. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy. Habakkuk 3:2</i></span></div><div><br />
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</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-60788290688818040922009-04-13T06:36:00.000-07:002009-04-13T07:09:07.842-07:00Weekend Set List - April 11 & 12<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEAOP-gzxVni5zXEzS65tVz79v286aF9Yod3yFUFCfd1wBm46RbKjUbJP_5o2bRNBe0le-bzHZRc6w-_WA5gAB0RI0pUu2GXUnnqZNVx1qhFmLG-zBDdOFz1tSeYixbIHNEt6gMrR_bM/s1600-h/easter+worship+2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEAOP-gzxVni5zXEzS65tVz79v286aF9Yod3yFUFCfd1wBm46RbKjUbJP_5o2bRNBe0le-bzHZRc6w-_WA5gAB0RI0pUu2GXUnnqZNVx1qhFmLG-zBDdOFz1tSeYixbIHNEt6gMrR_bM/s320/easter+worship+2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324176881045498706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij2dsDJ6F3LJYNwbki62Nw7yYd9tyP1tzLUZGaK7_bH0whXB6Pq24qrd4GsGz-tM4o3MvRy67UYt8bUm4BMi-dy9zgKCdonWM9hpNPiK9ap9hyG6mI6FA1P6blHWChsMbOE_1e8IPMcfI/s1600-h/easter+worship+1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij2dsDJ6F3LJYNwbki62Nw7yYd9tyP1tzLUZGaK7_bH0whXB6Pq24qrd4GsGz-tM4o3MvRy67UYt8bUm4BMi-dy9zgKCdonWM9hpNPiK9ap9hyG6mI6FA1P6blHWChsMbOE_1e8IPMcfI/s320/easter+worship+1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324176883229474978" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CWqeFVVgZyf4Xovazcc5Eto6nlcqNNPnryhve0QqtKscRSufWSaJavDH_fXhMb7x8lsTa2Cx7VFZBT8GK6H9QyX1J_NxPjh06y-ct0HlluAWc8ZEZIU4Hh5v9Yyis9y8t4spX64aBWQ/s1600-h/manafest+2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CWqeFVVgZyf4Xovazcc5Eto6nlcqNNPnryhve0QqtKscRSufWSaJavDH_fXhMb7x8lsTa2Cx7VFZBT8GK6H9QyX1J_NxPjh06y-ct0HlluAWc8ZEZIU4Hh5v9Yyis9y8t4spX64aBWQ/s320/manafest+2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324176277380738978" /></a><br /><br />All I can say about this weekend, is "WOW!" It was such an amazing service and I know the Lord was pleased with what we brought to Him :)<div><br /></div><div>We had an unusual Easter service, in that, we did not hit the narrative of the Easter story in the message. Instead of hitting the "What?" of Easter, we hit the "So What?" of Easter. We are in a series called, "Axioms" and today's message was on "seeking first God's kingdom". So, now that Christ has died, He's risen, and brought freedom and salvation, what is our next step, or 'so what' for today. </div><div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPmKRPHX18C09Pvxvh6RKTBDVbhpUjkHtorcKi8QpjdiG23qRO7ZmPiVTkusZhNE4Z_aYfIUzxKmXYC7p3R5n2wBiMVdFjm3OrOX5M5UzmCN5OUqBqtKE0wOm9qbHUSmdjmwl4g_s0cM/s320/manfest+1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324176278587080754" /></div><div>We had a marketing campaign, "<a href="http://badecono.me/">www.badecono.m</a>e" to hit the economic downturn we have been facing. We had this on a billboard, car stickers, and handed out dollar bills with the badecono.me logo. I believe it was a very successful campaign. And, today, at Preston Trail, we are having a Job Search Bootcamp where employers who are looking to hire will have a booth set up ready to talk to perspective employees.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our actual weekend service, included some REALLY interesting, creative ways to share the Easter story up top before we hit the message:</div><div><br /></div><div>Opener:</div><div>"Can You Feel It" by David Crowder - included video, a rapper (<a href="http://www.manafest.ca/">Manafest</a>), scratcher, turn tables</div><div>IT WAS AWESOME! And a great way to kick off the service!</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"Marvelous Light" - Charlie Hall</div><div>"Mighty to Save" - Laura Story version</div><div><br /></div><div>Video Announcements</div><div><br /></div><div>Theme Interp: set up the next song, but, also why we weren't doing the narrative of the Easter story in the message</div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song:</div><div>"Glorious Day" by Jeff Johnson including a video of the accounts leading up to his Crucifixion. It was such a powerful segment!</div><div><br /></div><div>Message:</div><div>"Seek first the Kingdom of God"</div><div><br /></div><div>Closing Feature Song:</div><div>"Free" by Manafest and he was there in person to do it! It was Incredible! We've never had a rapper before, but, he did an amazing job! If you haven't checked him out - click <a href="http://www.manafest.ca/citizensactiv.html">here</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, it was an incredible day! I am SO proud of our church and the creative team. I know the the Lord definitely blessed the work of our hands and above all, HE was glorified!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For more "Sunday Set Lists" click <a href="http://www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/">here</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-55704299696846230892009-04-05T09:30:00.000-07:002009-04-05T17:09:59.104-07:00Weekend Set List - April 4 & 5Today, we started our new series called, <a href="http://www.prestontrail.org/main/message-series.html">"Axioms"</a>. Today's was "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also". It was a very rich service and looking forward to the next 5 weeks of it. Here's what we did:<div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener:</div><div>"Chariot" - Gavin Degraw (always a great opener when used)</div><div><br /></div><div>Video Welcome:</div><div>just recently started using these and have helped on time and transitions, but, we're still evaluating the personableness of not having an actual person on stage</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"All to You" - Lincoln Brewster</div><div>"Because of Your Love" - </div><div><br /></div><div>Video Announcements: </div><div>Able to make alot of information into a short amount of time, and able to keep audience engaged</div><div><br /></div><div>Message - "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also"</div><div><br /></div><div>Communion:</div><div>"None But Jesus" - Hillsong (first time to do this song - was sung as a feature, but, will bring back as a worship song)</div><div><br /></div><div>Wrap Up/Dismiss</div><div><br /></div><div>Again, great rich service! If you want to listen to it, go check out our <a href="http://www.prestontrail.org/podcast/index.htm">podcasts</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>For more Sunday Set Lists, <a href="http://www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/">click here</a>.</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-34719676493304128902009-03-24T18:36:00.000-07:002009-03-24T18:46:15.558-07:00Set List - March 21 & 22This was the second week in our series, "Private Practices". This week was on prayer.<div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener:</div><div>"Pride and Joy" - Stevie Ray Vaughn</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"I'm Singing" - Kari Jobe</div><div>"Hosanna" - Paul Baloche</div><div>"Your Grace is Enough" - Matt Maher version</div><div><br /></div><div>Drama - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1288428515&ref=ts">Prudy Pious</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song (post message):</div><div>"Let Us Pray" - Steven Curtis Chapman</div><div><br /></div><div>This was an upbeat, funny, and impactful service! </div><div><br /></div><div>Click here for more <a href="http://www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/03/22/sunday-setlists-35/">Sunday Set Lists</a></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-1786555710491190402009-03-24T18:28:00.000-07:002009-03-24T18:36:43.157-07:00Set List - March 14 & 15We began a new series this weekend called, "Private Practices". It is about what Jesus has to say about 3 spiritual disciplines that are meant to be done in private as they draw us closer to the heart of God. Today was on "Giving to the Poor". Here's our flow:<div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"All We Need" - Charlie Hall</div><div>"Unashamed Love" - Jason Morant</div><div>"Enough" - Chris Tomlin</div><div><br /></div><div>Pre-Message Creative Element:</div><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1288428515&ref=ts">Prudy Pious</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song (post message):</div><div>"Among the Poor" - Jeremy Riddle</div><div><br /></div><div>Very impactful day!</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-79924889999266633422009-03-24T07:38:00.000-07:002009-03-24T18:28:28.354-07:00Set List - March 7 & 8WOW! So, I have been extremely busy and have not been great about updating my Sunday Set List - shame on me :) So, here are 3 weeks!<div><br /></div><div>This day we ended our 6 message series called "Six Degrees of Separation" on 'hatred'.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener: </div><div>"Let It Rise" (very cool rock version - tons of fun!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"Majestic" - Lincoln Brewster</div><div>"All I Have" - Charlie Hines</div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song (pre-message):</div><div>"Hate ( I Really Really Don't Like You)" - Plain White T's</div><div><br /></div><div>Prayer Time & Feature Song:</div><div>"Rescue" - Jared Anderson</div></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-87148243820110125462009-03-02T09:25:00.000-08:002009-03-02T10:54:40.965-08:00Set List: Feb 28-March 1WOW! What an amazing day! One of our senior pastors talked on the subject of "revenge". That deep down we have an inner desire to give people what they deserve but Jesus taught us something different in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5:38-42). We are to respond with mercy and grace. Mercy being not giving people what they deserve and grace, giving them what they don't deserve. I love those definitions.<div><br /></div><div>He called us to start thinking differently about having to get even, about our honor/self-esteem and our assets. Above all, God said it is HIS job to avenge, not ours. We are the Lords. If God is FOR US, than who can be against us. Let's trust Him for that!</div><div><br /></div><div>The day:</div><div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener: </div><div>"Hanging By a Moment"</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set:</div><div>"Forever King" (D) - Todd Fields</div><div>"O Praise Him" (G) - David Crowder</div><div>"Because of Your Love" (G) - Paul Baloche</div><div><br /></div><div>Sermon Set Up: "Charlie Bit My Finger" youtube video (very cute)</div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song (after message):</div><div>"Sweet Revenge" by Barlow Girl (INCREDIBLE SONG! -<a href="http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/barlowgirl/sweetrevenge.html"> Check out lyrics</a>!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, check out other Sunday Set lists <a href="http://www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/03/01/sunday-setlists-32/">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a great day! Thank you God!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-32313700028149775272009-02-27T07:45:00.001-08:002009-02-27T08:11:26.906-08:00You are FOR ME!Do you ever have those days where you FINALLY realize what God's been trying to pound into your head for days, months and sometimes even years? Well, the past few months, God has continued to bring the phrase "God is for me" to me through songs, my current bible study (Stepping Up by Beth Moore) and through other people.<div><br /></div><div>Well, today, I realize what is holding me back from that sinking into the marrow of my bones...Here's what Beth writes:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>"We live most of our lives unconvinced that God is really for us. We have little trouble picturing ourselves on God's side, but for the life of us we can't picture God stooping down enough to be on ours. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>We rarely admit it, but, our actions, anxieties, fears and insecurities suggest something else. Perhaps some of us don't so much feel as if God is against us as we just don't necessarily feel as if He's for us. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Somewhere deep inside I think we're secretly convinced that God created man with very high hopes only to have them dashed. We proved a terrible disappointment to God, but because He is faithful to His covenant, He's obligated to see the plan to completion. Therefore, He tolerates us because He's stuck with us"</div><div><br /></div><div>So, she asked us that question: Do we ultimately believe God is against us, God tolerates us, or God is for me? Then she talks about how most of us believe God tolerates us based on how He appears to act in our circumstances. In other words, "our litmus test for whether we think God is really for us is circumstantial evidence. " WOW! I know I do that all the time - I've done it my whole life - I remember after losing my grandfather, Ryan's accident and my 2 miscarriages all in 2 years, I asked God what I had done? When in reality, He had the glory in the end in mind. This helped me so much this morning. Here's what she wrote:</div><div><br /></div><div>"He knows when something glorious in the future necessitates something difficult in the present. Because He knows the glory will be worth it, God will risk being misunderstood. Yes, God wants us to have joyful, satisfying lives, but He also wants us to have crowns to cast. Reward to receive. Character to develop. Compassion to give. Testimonies to tell. In the midst of those painful processes, God makes bold promises"</div><div><br /></div><div>I would REALLY encourage you to do what I did this morning! I read Romans 8:28-39 and filled in "I will" statements: I will show you...</div><div><br /></div><div>My child, _________ (your name)</div><div>I will make sure all things work together for your good.</div><div>I will ____________________________________</div><div>I will ___________________________________</div><div>I will ____________________________________</div><div>I will ____________________________________</div><div>I will ____________________________________</div><div>Love, God!</div><div><br /></div><div>Then, go listen to "You Are For Me" by Kari Jobe (you see the song in this player) - I know you will be blessed! <a href="http://us.dada.net/audio/14586677/Kari-Jobe-You-Are-For-Me/">http://us.dada,net/audio/14586677/Kari-Jobe-You-Are-For-Me/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I know you will be blessed!</div><div><br /></div><div>God is FOR US! What a comforting thing! </div><div><br /></div><div>Being more than a conquerer,</div><div>Laura</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-8235012798095774242009-02-26T09:30:00.000-08:002009-02-26T07:40:38.853-08:00You Are GodYesterday in staff meeting, one of our senior pastors brought up Romans 8:28, "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them". And, this past weekend, we sang a song called, "Your Love Never Fails" by Chris Quilala. In that song, the bridge repeats over and over "You make all things work together for my good". HOW POWERFUL!<div><br /></div><div>So, our pastor asked if there were some things in our lives, painful/emotional things that have happened, or our bad decisions we've made, that God has ultimately made it into something beautiful or we see some good in it. So, my husband (he's the youth minister) and I shared several things:</div><div><br /></div><div>1 - His car accident in 2005 (this happened the day after our one year wedding anniversary) where they didn't think he was going to make it - you can read what we blogged - <a href="http://www.prestontrail.org/family/ryan-update.htm">http://www.prestontrail.org/family/ryan-update.htm</a> . But, now God has given us a great testimony of His faithfulness, His power and ultimately HIS GLORY has been seen through it all!</div><div>2 - My 2 miscarriages - they were SO difficult at the time and I would be lying if I said I was happy about it, or even happy with God, but, now I have the chance to minister to women in the same situation. Or just those longing for a child. That goes back to the verse in 1 Corinthians that says, "God comforts us in all of our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we've been given" - and, now I have a beautiful little girl, Hadley, that I would not have had :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I could go on and on of the things that God has redeemed in my life, the beautiful art He's made of my messes, and just the hard things that have given me eyes to see others in the same situations, or even just to see the character of God. I thank God, that HE remains the same!</div><div><br /></div><div>One of my songs from my album (being released May 31st) is called, "You Are God" and the lyrics describe His character despite our humanness, and that HE is ultimately God and I'm so thankful I'm not:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I am so unfaithful, but, Your faithfulness remains</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I am double-minded, but, Your perspective doesn't change</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I've been known to hold a grudge, but, Your grace is always there</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">And, I have often falsely judged, but, You're just and always fair</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">You are God, You are God</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">And, I am not</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">You are God, You are God</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">And, I am not</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">You are holy, holy, holy</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I clutch at things too tightly, but, You give me room to go</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I say that I'm unworthy, but, You always tell me no</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">At times my fears have ruled me, but, You say to trust in You</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">At times I've been dishonest, but Your words are always true</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">CHORUS</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I'm thankful You're not like me and that You remain the same</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">And, I will look to You, Lord and the power of Your Name</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div>Blessings today and hope in the midst of hard times, You can remember the love, mercy, faithfulness, compassion, and character of God! I'm doing that today!</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-62998495822452620182009-02-24T07:33:00.000-08:002009-02-24T07:38:32.453-08:00Set List - February 20 & 21This weekend we continued our series on "Six Degrees of Separation" with DECEPTION. It was a great weekend again! <div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener: "Wherever We Go"</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Set: </div><div>"All Over the World" - Tree63</div><div>"Glorious One" - Steve Fee</div><div><br /></div><div>Video:</div><div>"Liar, Liar" clip (the one where he's determined to say the pen is RED but he can't lie)</div><div><br /></div><div>Feature Song:</div><div>"Hard Time for an Honest Man" by John Cougar Mellancamp</div><div><br /></div><div>Worship Response:</div><div>"Your Love Never Fails" - Chris Quilala</div><div><br /></div><div>Next week we're continuing as we talk about REVENGE - we have an amazing day planned! I think it's going to be VERY powerful! Look forward to sharing it with you next week!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-73090971846742366502009-02-16T14:54:00.000-08:002009-02-16T15:14:03.986-08:00SongsI have recently started walking through Beth Moore's, "Stepping Up" study. It is taking me on a journey through the Psalms of Ascent (Psalm 120-134). Today I listened to her audio on songs. Here's a few of her points:<div><ul><li>Song originated with God and accompanied creation (Job 38:7). Singing is eternal!</li><li>Emotions and experiences can be expressed through song in ways spoken words can never satisfy. (James 5:13, Psalm 13, Hosea 2:14-15)</li><li>A song can change our entire perspective (Acts 16:24-26). A song can also greatly affect the heart of God.</li></ul><div>As I listened to her speak, I was overwhelmed with the amazing blessing & privilege it is to have the gift of music. AND, to be blessed with the talent to sing and lead others in worship. Songs can help us voice things that we may not otherwise say, and I have the opportunity to lead our people in expressing those things to the Lord. The good, exciting things. The hard, emotional things. And, the things that sometimes only the Spirit can say for us. But, whichever it is, we as worship leaders, get to use something that is eternal - SONG! We get to sing over people and help them draw near to the heart of God! WOW!</div><div><br /></div><div>A challenge I was given today is to live out what I'm singing. It's easy for a melody to move us emotionally, but, we have to move our feet to a place of obedience. She said, "We can think a song is beautiful and memorize its words yet remain completely unaffected by what it says." How true is that?!? She took us to 1 Corinthians 14:15 which says, "I will sing with my spirit, but, I will also sing with my mind". We need to know what we're singing AND be putting our feet to our words!</div></div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-84713477055200945712009-02-16T13:57:00.000-08:002009-02-16T13:58:48.243-08:00Set List - February 14 & 15<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; "><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; ">This weekend was the third message (Divorce) in our series through the Sermon on the Mount called "6 Degrees of Separation" at Preston Trail Community Church (www.prestontrail.org). The set list was as follows:<div><br /></div><div>Worship Leader - Warren Jacobs</div><div><br /></div><div>Instrumental Opener: "Shine"</div><div>Worship Set: "Remain" (D) - Starfield & "Hosanna" (G) - Paul Baloche</div><div>Feature Song: "Lie Low" - Plumb</div><div>Worship Response: "From the Inside Out" (F) - Hillsong United</div><div><br /></div><div>This was a very meaningful service. Many people feeling a need to renew their marriages, others receiving grace for past broken relationships and wanting to be made whole before entering into their next relationship and some just being very grateful for the wonderful marriage they have :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Next week, we continue our series with "Deception" - http://www.prestontrail.org/main/message-series.html</div><div><br /></div><div>To see other set lists around the country, visit http://www.fredmckinnon.com/myblog/2009/02/15/sunday-setlists-30/</div></div></span>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-53075192250139591252009-02-13T07:37:00.000-08:002009-02-13T07:50:21.610-08:00Journey Ahead"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come to me? Help comes to me from Yahweh, who has made heaven and earth. He does not let your foot waver, your keeper does not sleep! Yahweh is your keeper, Yahweh is your shade above your right hand! Yahweh protects you against all harm, he protects your life." Psalm 121:1-3, 5,7<div><br /></div><div>Wow - when I look at the road before me and the journey ahead, I tend to ask the same question the Psalmist did..."Where will my help come from?" God answered that question for me this morning saying, "Laura, I am for you! I will go before you! I will protect you! And, I will not slumber in doing so." As I read in my Beth Moore study this morning, "He is in perfect attendance to your every step". How comforting!</div><div><br /></div><div>With the album songs beginning to be mixed and other details coming together, other details looming ahead, at times it can be scary, but, I am at a place of utter desperation and trust in the Lord, which is definitely a good place to be - under the shadow of His wings! He is the ONLY ONE that can calm any fear I have! One of my songs says, "At times my fears have ruled me, but, You say to trust in You". I am trusting God! And, thankful HE's God and I am not!</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pray for me during this time. At times I'm very excited, other times I'm nervous, and other times I have felt the enemy attacking me more than any other time in my life. I know God wants to use me in some big ways and the enemy will do anything to keep that from happening. So, please pray for me & my family's protection against the enemy! God is faithful and will remain the same throughout this whole journey! And, we will look to Him and the power of His Name (also lyrics to a song on the album, "You Are God").</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for the opportunity to serve and be used by You, God! I count it a great privilege!</div><div><br /></div><div>Starting the journey,</div><div>Laura</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-49720561972176417962009-02-09T07:30:00.001-08:002009-02-09T07:45:42.974-08:00TearsLast night's worship time as you previously read was incredible! What I did not say was I cried all the way THROUGH it, ALL the way home and even when I got home. God was & still is stirring something in me for sure. <div><br /></div><div>This morning, I read in Psalm 84 (NLT): "4 What joy for those who can live in Your house, always singing Your praises. 5 What joy for those who strength comes from the Lord, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. 6 When they walk through the Valley of Weeping it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. 7 They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem. 8 O Lord, GOd of Heaven's Armies, hear my prayer. Listen, O God of Jacob..."</div><div><br /></div><div>God has spoken alot and ALOT I'm still waiting on, but, one thing was that those tears were to bring me refreshment through Him AND to teach me something about His heart for me and my life. And it did! It reminded me of WHY I lead worship! Why I LOVE to lead worship - I LOVE IT and always have. I've been leading worship since a 7th grader and knew I was called to it when there was NOTHING I would rather do and nothing that satisfied me more in the Lord!</div><div><br /></div><div>I also read in "Windows of the Soul" this morning a quote about tears, "Whenever you find tears in your eyes, especially unexpected tears, it is well to pay the closest attention. They are not only telling you something about the secret of who you are, but more often than not God is speaking to you through them of the mystery of where you have come form and is summoning you to where, if your soul is to be saved, you should go next." Also, another quote says, "So much is distilled in our tears, not the least of which is wisdom in living life. From my own tears (Ken Gire) I have learned that if you follow your tears, you will find your heart. If you find your heart, you will find what is dear to God. And if you find what is dear to God, you will find the answer to how you should live Your life."</div><div><br /></div><div>For me, living my life to the fullest, is leading worship. And wherever God chooses for that to happen, I will go. And, whatever opportunities He brings, I will surrender to those things. I am excited to see what is in the horizon for me and the Lord. I think through those tears He reminded me of the joy of leading worship too and ministering to people through song. For me worship is allowing God to sing over us and us to sing over Him. It says in Zephaniah 3:17, "The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in You, He will quiet You with His love, and He will rejoice over you with singing!" BEAUTIFUL! I want to be still and quiet and allow Him to continue singing over me and blessing me with the privilege to sing over His children as well!</div><div><br /></div><div>THANK YOU GOD!</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-22803916006788676352009-02-08T19:40:00.001-08:002009-02-08T19:45:03.130-08:00AmazedTonight I went to the Kari Jobe CD release party. First of all, she is incredibly gifted and the Lord's anointing is definitely on her. <div><br /></div><div>Second, the Lord completely broke me tonight. I have ALOT of thoughts going on in my head & heart and still needing to write, sift and pray through them all, but, I am in a state of brokenness which I know is right where the Lord wants me! A word was spoken over me tonight of the Lord just saying, "It's okay!" Again, still sifting through everything, but, the Lord came in power tonight and sang over us! I think He was truly blessed too! I am incredibly grateful and in awe of God's grace - how He accepts a child like me that wonders off sometimes and rebels, but, He just waits until we return home and He sings, "You're My Beloved, You're my Bride. To sing over You is My delight. Come away with Me My child". I am truly being swept away right now by Him and realizing how much I've missed His unbelievable presence. It's incredible what He will do when we are completely surrendered to Him. I cannot wait for what is in store. I am feeling tonight that God has some neat things in store if I will just remain faithful and near Him - so, I'm holding on for the ride! </div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6387070284395220052.post-669791782533551852009-02-06T07:08:00.000-08:002009-02-06T08:42:00.915-08:00Bigger Than YourselfSo, last week (Jan 23-Jan 31), I recorded an album called, "Bigger Than Yourself". Release will be April 1st (hopefully!). I helped in writing one worship tune called, "You Are God". My producer & friend, Rod Padgett wrote 5 of the originals and they are incredible! And, I did 5 covers - "Rescue", "Draw Me Close", "Indescribable", "Tis So Sweet", and "My Glorious". <div><br /></div><div>It was an amazing experience! Being around that many talented musicians in one room was enough to blow me away. And, even the most amazing thing, is that they are ALL so humble! It was a great group to work with on this project. I definitely had to face some of my insecurities head on and still working through them, but, I wouldn't been TRULY faced with them if I had not stepped out with this project. Trying to find balance between promoting something that you've done and not feeling like you're like "HEY! Look at ME!" is very difficult for me. I tend to just NOT want to promote it, but, I know that would not be good stewardship on my part with what God has given me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll definitely keep you up to speed with the progress of this journey :)</div>Laura Hairstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05226308845917750137noreply@blogger.com1