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The EcoFriendly Christian

What does it mean to be environmentally friendly? It’s a term most of us have heard tossed around here and there, especially in recent political debates. However, the state of our planet shouldn’t be a Republican problem or a Democrat issue. Environmentally friendly simply means to be earth friendly or not harmful to the environment. That’s it. Nothing gimmicky, no marketing ploy, simply take care of the place we live that God has blessed us with. 

As Christians we are placed in a unique position, although this planet is temporary it is still a privilege. In Genesis we see our God tediously and intentionally creating this world and after each new creation the Word says “He (God) saw that it was good”. If you continue to read in Genesis 1:15 it says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” Not only in this scripture does He tell us to be good stewards but He also shows us what that means. From the very beginning God created this planet for us to enjoy but to also nurture, and take care of.

Our time on this world may be small but that doesn’t mean our vision needs to be. In Proverbs 13:22 it says “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous”. Let us leave a meaningful and inspiring legacy for our children; that we care about the generations to come, and defend the provisions God has given us especially our planet.  On one final note in 1 Corinthians 10:31 it says ” So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God”. When the bible says all, it means all. From helping a stranger load groceries to picking up trash in your local park, let us have the heart of our Father in everything we do. This is the most important legacy we as followers of Christ should embody.

At ECC we hold these values very closely to our hearts and are firm believers in leading by example. So not only will we be providing more content and resources about this topic but we will collectively start making more sustainable choices within our own church. Let’s rally together as the body of Christ and be the change we want to see in the city of Escondido.

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Rising Above

“Mental pain is less dramatic than physical pain, but it is more common and also more hard to bear. The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say “My tooth is aching” than to say “My heart is broken.” ― C.S. Lewis

Mental illness or mental pain is something we all have had to deal with at some point in our lives. Maybe it’s the days that seem impossible to get out of bed or the all too common panic attack in the middle of class. Sometimes it cuts deeper than that, the loss of a friend who took their life or maybe the divorce that left you empty inside. However it disguises itself, the root of it all is still the same: fear, shame, guilt. The enemy loves to make you feel isolated and alone, that whatever you are going through no one else could possibly understand. It’s a vicious cycle in order to keep you a slave so you will never become who God has called you to be. Almost half (46.4%) of the US population will experience a mental illness during their lifetime according to USA Mental Health First Aid. Yet in a recent study 66% church goers reported that their pastors once a year, rarely, or never discussed mental health. The more we, as christians struggle to discuss and deal with mental illness, the more we fail in creating a safe and open environment for those we are shepherding. Here at Escondido Christian Church we strongly believe in the importance of community and the healing that takes place when you let others in. With our new Learning to Love Ministry launching we will be able to provide onsite counseling for ages and all circumstances. You or your family members can have access to the help you need with a community of fellow believers standing in the gap rooting for your victory. 

“We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and breaks through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

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What makes me unique?

A question that has rattled inside your brain at least once in your life. How am I different than the woman sitting next to me at work? Or the young man taking my order at McDonalds? The short answer: God. I don’t mean that in a way you are probably thinking though. Yes, following Christ is not the norm for today’s society, and yes we are set apart as Christians, but there’s so much more to it than that. We are unique because we are created by a unique God. We are image bearers of a creative God who made insanely talented, original, and inventive people to follow suit in His passions. You know how you are great at meeting new people, always making sure everyone feels welcome? Or how God is really good at placing an image or word for someone who needs it most on your heart? Is mastering a new subject because you lost yourself in the research your thing? Maybe putting out fires at work is right up your alley, or being the friend everyone can trust and rely on. Remember that time you stepped out in faith, and prayed for someone who was sick and they were healed? All those qualities, dreams, quirks, passions whatever you decide to call them, aren’t there by accident. That’s our Father shining through us, His children. That uniqueness is God-given and whether you are using those gifts to help a friend or create a masterpiece, you are further enriching His Kingdom. Here at ECC, we embrace the unique, the extraordinary, and the supernatural because that’s how God loves to operate. People from all walks of life will contribute their own spark God gave them to help you find yours. By providing you with easily accessible and applicable content, we can stand together contending for a move of God through our own lives, our city, and in this world.

Blog Categories to Expect from Collected: 

-Training & Equipping

-Relationships & Family

-Worship

-Arts & Creativity

-City

Is there anything in particular you are hoping to read and learn about through the Collected blog? Let us know in the comments below.