Day 37

Day Thirty-Seven

October 27, 2010

Some people are just not nice for no apparent reason. I was in my 1st period class today when one kid decided he would not get out of my seat. I asked politely, I waited off at the side until class started, other kids were telling him to get out, but nothing worked. Finally the teacher had to yell at the guy and after three attempts he grudgingly got up. I was not happy to put it lightly. In another class the same guy called me ugly and loud and other rude things. Only through God's help did I hold back from punching the kid. I took a deep breath and tried to act like nothing happened, but not until after I told him I thought he was rude. I regret that last part. Talking to one of my friends about it afterward I realized that no matter what anybody does to me I still need to treat them with respect and God's love.

At lunch I was sitting at a table with some friends when a girl I had never met before came up to us. She started yelling at one of my friends and was being insanely obnoxious, rude, and ruthless. It was crazy! My friend just tried to ignore the harsh words, but she couldn't get away. We waited until the girl was done yelling and I took my friend and a few others and we went outside to get away. The first thing we did was pray. Out in the open court yard four of us held hands and prayed for my friend and that she wouldn't use this situation as an excuse to fall further into the world, but closer to God. Right before lunch ended we prayed again for the rest of our day and for one of my other friends who was also going through a hard time. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

Matthew 5:39;

"But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also."

Matthew 5:44;

"But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,"

James 5:16;

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

Day 36

Day Thirty-Six

October 26, 2010

Today was really cold and short, but all worth it.

In English I got to listen in on conversations about super crazy dating relationships. I didn't agree with their choices at all, but I didn't say that out loud. I listened to what they had to say and asked them things like what the purpose of dating is. I have never had a boyfriend and I'm okay with that. I think that it's an amazing testimony to others, especially as teenagers, to put God's plans for us before what the world tells us we need. And when those relationships come, to carry them out in a God-fearing way. The concept of not needing a boyfriend or girlfriend is practically foreign in this age. God is my number one priority.

In the same class I got to talk to another girl and somehow the conversation turned to religion. I don't remember bringing up the topic myself, that was purely directed by God. The girl was talking about how she had never gone to church or read the Bible, but that she's a Catholic. I asked her what makes her Catholic and she replied, "Well my parents were both raised Catholic and I think I was baptized." In a non-offensive way I started asking a few questions. I asked things like "Is Catholicism a race or a religion?" She answered religion, so I asked why what her parents claim to be has anything to do with what she says she is. If religion is a personal decision, it can't be inherited from your parents like blond hair or brown eyes. The conversation slowed down and shifted to the topic of shooting rubber bands. That's high school!

All in all, I think today was a fantastic day full of worshiping Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 10:35-36;

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."

Philippians 4:8;

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things."

Meet Amy

Amy R. Bio

"I was raised in the ideal christian home. I went to church every Sunday, am very involved with youth group, AWANA, Bible studies, etc. When I was 5 years old I gave my life to Jesus Christ and started a relationship between me and my Savior. I'm still trying hard to perfect what I call my faith in the one and only true God. As life goes on, keeping my relationship strong gets SO HARD! God has taken away my friends, put me into not-so-easy situations, but all to show me that I need Him more than anything else in this life. Now it is my goal to live every day for Him and to share this peace, joy, and hope that I have to everyone else. God gave me this life, so I'm living it for Him."

Amy R. is a part of The Fishing Project. TFP was actually a ministry that Amy was inspired to come up with through the Montana mission trips our church takes yearly. When asked about TFP, Amy responded; " TFP is a decision to live each day, especially in school, for the sole purpose of preaching the gospel through interactions with others, words, focus... EVERYTHING! Through my experience, TFP is an effective, simple idea that has real affects. Like my English friend making amazing, life-changing decisions to serve God, even though seemingly minor at the time."

Two of Amy's favorite verses right now are:
Romans 12:1-2
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will."
"I love this verse because so many times we try to do anything just to fit in. God gives us encouragement here that we don't WANT to fit in because God calls us to be different. We can stop trying to fit in because that is no longer our priority." -Amy

Romans 12:11
"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."
"This keeps me going and encourages me. I have zeal! I have spiritual fervor! But do I keep it up? This verse keeps me in check." - Amy

Amy decided that she wanted to do more with her daily life than just survive. She decided she wanted to live each day to it's fullest, bringing God glory hopefully in everything that she does. She created The Fishing Project, and she would be the first to tell you, it's not easy. It can be very difficult at times. If you've ever read any of her logs that she's written in the past 35 days, you'll see that it's not always an easy task to stay positive and serve God with your whole heart. But Amy would also be the first person to tell you that it's all worth it!
If you have any questions about TFP, feel free to ask Amy or Alyssa, Colin or Mason.

""Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."" Matthew 4:19

Day 35

Day Thirty-Five

October 25, 2010

It's rainy and it's cold and it's a day in the life of a Washingtonian. There was no ninja playing during lunch today.

I have to admit- I do not want to write an entry for today. I'm behind in one of my classes. I still don't think my friends understand what living a life for Christ means. I'm constantly bombarded with bad language, dirty jokes, and really rude students. I don't feel like anything I do is making a difference. This project is so hard! Living a life wholeheartedly for Jesus and "stepping only in His footsteps" is insanely difficult! In fact, it's impossible! I can't do it. At least not on my own.

It's times like this that I can't lose heart. God still has a plan that I'm still a part of. As much as I hate to admit it- this means that I have to change. There's something that I'm not doing right. I'm not staying caught up on my school work. I'm not keeping Christ at the front of my mind for all situations. I'm not starting my day the right way. I'm not praying nearly as often as I should. To sum it up: I'm not giving my God my everything. That needs to change.

Are you giving God your everything? Or are you giving Him leftovers? God didn't create you halfheartedly, so you shouldn't serve Him halfheartedly either.

2 Chronicles 28:9;

"...acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever."

Psalm 119:175-176;

"Let me live that I may praise You, and may Your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commands."

Day 34

Day Thirty-Four

October 22, 2010

I love food. Today was a good day. We had a food party in my Chemistry class. Today is "Mole Day" (don't ask me why, but it has some educational purpose) so we renamed doughnuts "mole"nuts, lemonade became le"mole"ade, and stuff like that so we could eat it for a class party. We also played jeopardy about random jokes. I got to make friends, get the shy kids more involved and less separated from everyone else, and eat food!

Some of my friends and I get together during our lunch and head outside to play a fun, yet pointless, game called "ninja." Most high schoolers know how to play and it's an easy way to get to know people. With the group of people I play with we are able to hold ourselves accountable to hanging out with the right people, practice keeping our cool under frustrating circumstances (like me NOT winning when it was NOT my fault), and we pray right before leaving for our classes. Today our group got bigger! Finding fun, easy games like Ninja is a great way to keep each other in check and an easy transition to doing something like praying right before class.

Proverbs 3:5-6;

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Isaiah 45:5-6;

"I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from Me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged Me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other."

Day 33

Day Thirty-Three

October 21, 2010

I started making small goals for myself each day. Yesterday the goal was to compliment 5 people I didn't know. Today my goal was to make a new friend. I got to know a girl in my Chemistry class and I FINALLY talked to that one girl I share two classes with! Tomorrow I am going to write someone an encouragement card. Small things like that are easy ways to remind ourselves of the ultimate goal- living a life full of Christ's love.

Today in English I got to talk to one of my friends the whole time about life. We didn't hit any major topics, but we talked about what it's like living in this day in age. We talked about temptations, reading our Bibles when we need to set our minds back on God's path, shared funny stories about our families, and I got to know her so much more. Not all of it was easy to hear, but it was true and raw and real and it made me love her and respect her so much more for her honesty.

Cell phones are an amazing invention. They help you keep in contact with friends that you would otherwise lose track of- especially when you've gone to five different schools like me! Texting is a really easy way to hold each other accountable to living a life worthy of the gospel of Christ. I love giving random encouragement texts and through just that I found out that one of my friends is going through a really hard time right now. She feels lost and confused and hurt due to events way outside of her control. Through texting I got to comfort her with passages from the Bible, talk through some key points of life with her, but most importantly I could listen without interruption. Listening is sharing Christ's love.

Philippians 1:27a;

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ."

James 1:19;

"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Romans 12:15;

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

Day 32

Day Thirty-Two

October 20, 2010

Today was somewhat interesting. In memory of 6 gay boys who committed suicide due to homophobic abuse, a large event was created encouraging people to wear purple today. This isn't just for remembering those six boys, but as a way to represent love for all people. This is a really touchy subject, but it affects each and every one of us. Even though I don't necessarily agree with the choices of the homosexual community, I wasn't about to let this opportunity go to waste.

Every year our youth group goes on a mission trip to Montana and each year we get a different shirt. Two years ago our theme for the trip was "Crazy Love" taken from the book "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan. As a way to share God's love with everyone without essentially supporting a cause I don't agree with, I asked my youth pastor to make an announcement encouraging everyone to wear their Montana shirt instead of purple. This is by no means an attack against those people, because God truly loves everybody no matter their past, present, or future. The turn out was amazing. I saw so many kids from youth group walking around the halls today with shirts that say "Crazy Love," "Sin is Whack," "Ready Yourselves," and more. My shirt directly came out saying "God is Love." The whole point was to start conversations and use the shirts as a means for sharing the gospel. The conversations were amazing! For those kids wearing purple, I got to tell them about how God's love is the ultimate love. People should not be treated poorly just because of differences.

This is a huge topic that could go on forever. The most important thing that I learned is that God is love, God loves everyone, we are to be like Christ, we are to love everyone. EVERYONE! Not everyone minus gay people. That doesn't mean we have to agree with them all the time, but we still have to approach them with respect. I keep quoting 1 Peter 3:15! Go back and read it :D.

What does the Bible have to say about this? Some references are Leviticus 18:23, 20:13, Romans 1:27, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Ask a Pastor if you have questions.

Romans 3:23;

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

Romans 10:12-13;

"For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile- the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

"...But the fact is that nothing should concern us more than our relationship with God..."

-Francis Chan

"Crazy Love"

Day 31

Day Thirty-One

October 19, 2010

Today was super long and I just wanted to get it over with. I listened in on some conversations that my friends were having around me in different classes. Honestly, I was disgusted! Students in high school love to play around with the concept of dating. I'm not saying that dating is wrong, but some students make their boyfriend or girlfriend their everything! I listen to what they have to say about it, and I don't scream out my opinions to them rudely, but I do add my input. I told them about how I haven't even gone on a date yet, but that I'm still happy because I know that God will bring me the right guy at the right time. I stood true to my beliefs. I got laughed at a couple times, but it's not their approval that I'm searching for.

Also, when I was at lunch, one girl sat down with us that I had to get away from. Every other word was a cuss word and she was really rude to the other people. Lying, cussing, yelling, stealing, and interrupting were just a few of the tactics that she used to gain attention. I finally got so fed up with it that I asked Amanda to get up and walk around with me for the rest of lunch. I didn't yell at the girl condemning her for her sins, I simply separated myself from the situation. When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, He gives us the Holy Spirit to live in us and help us discern right from wrong. Without the Holy Spirit, humans are selfish and sinful and want to rebel against God. In that situation I didn't have to say anything to that girl to share the gospel- I just had to set an example through my actions. By not joining in with everyone else I was able to share the gospel- whether the other students heard it or not.

Proverbs 4:23-25;

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you."

Exodus 23:2a;

"Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong..."

"God is faithful to work it all out, so just do your best and He'll do the rest."

- Ryan D.

Day 30

Day Thirty

October 18, 2010

After an amazing weekend enjoying God's astounding creation along the Oregon coast I am once again reminded of how powerful God truly is and how much He loves us! Every time a wave came crashing against the waves a rainbow appeared through the mist. A very beautiful reminder that, while God promised us He would never flood the entire earth again, He could do just that with one crash of a wave if He wanted to.

The weekend also reminded me of how misled some people are. The second night we stopped and watched a sunset on the beach. I look at the sunset with the stunning array of colors and immediately think 'Isn't God amazing? And powerful? He creates a sunset as dazzling as this, but He still chooses to love ME?!' I cannot comprehend how anyone can look at a sunset and think 'And all of this came from one ball of energy. This is all by chance.'

Then I had to think, 'Am I living like God's sunset? Do I go show people the masterpiece that God intended me to be when I walk around school?' This whole year God is sending me constant "checks" to reflect on my own life and make sure that it reflects Him. Gospel clothing and jewelry is great, but the conversations are what counts. God sent me a few conversations today based on my sweatshirt and necklace. God has blessed me with so many new friends and classmates this year. He helps me bring a smile to the faces of the kids in my Chemistry class. I have definitely built strong friendships in English class. I can give them the "good influence" that God wants me to be, but ultimately it is up to them how they react.

Isaiah 50:4-7;

"The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears, and I have not been rebellious; I have not drawn back. I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting. Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame."

Romans 1:20;

"For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities- His eternal power and divine nature- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse."

Day 29

Day Twenty-Nine

October 15, 2010

Today I get to leave for another youth group retreat. After school my mom can't pick me up until almost an hour after it ends, so I was able to sit on a bench outside enjoying the sun and all of God's creation while listening to Hillsong and MercyMe. I got to sit back and pray and talk to my Creator. It was amazing!

But I didn't just take time for myself. I saw a girl standing there alone and I got to have a nice conversation with her. We talked about band and orchestra. She helped me make the connection that she's in my math class! (I felt horrible that I didn't recognize her right away.) And I found out that she's really quiet and has a small group of friends. That's one more person that I can say hi to, smile, at wave at through the halls.

I also glorified God through my actions. I was able to get most of my work done and I am almost completely caught up! After I prayed about all of this and asked God for help, He gave it to me!

Philippians 4:13;

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

"And all of creation sing with me now
Lift up your voice and lay your burden down
And all of creation sing with me now
Fill up the heavens let his glory resound"

"All Of Creation"

MercyMe

Day 28

Day Twenty-Eight

October 14, 2010

I am not even close to joking around when I say that reading your Bible and praying is THE BEST way to start the day. Today I woke up with a book for my Bible study, as well as the first two chapters in the book of Ruth. Ruth is another example of how God always provides for us.

Praise God for English class! The girl we played the joke on waltzed into class giving us a big hug! The issue is official resolved and forgotten. I was able to get more of my work done and talk to the girls that I've gotten to know so well.

One thing that I have been working on that really helps me keep my focus better on Christ and helping others is working on my organization. Since I can use everything I do to glorify God, whether it's homework, class time, conversations, attitude, or what I eat, then organizing everything helps me get it done more efficiently to do an even better job at each and every task I start on. It's helped me get caught up in my classes. Organization has helped me get ahead in class. It has helped me keep my room clean to honor my parents' requests. Then when I'm on track with my responsibilities, I have time to start conversations with people, to hang out with friends, and to glorify God with my free time.

Challenge: is your time honoring God? Or is it honoring to you? Do you do what God asks you to do with your time? Or do you put aside your responsibilities to do what you want to do (i.e. Facebook, TV, friends, shopping, video games...)?

Ecclesiastes 3:1;

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven."

1 Corinthians 14:40;

"But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way."

Day 27

Day Twenty-Seven

October 13, 2010

I'm far from perfect! Yesterday in English we played a practical joke that went wrong. One of my friends has a habit of leaving her cell phone on my desk while she works. The girl sitting next to me took it and put it in her pocket while the owner of the phone wasn't looking. We traded it back for and forth to watch her freak out. Normally jokes like this just get a laugh out of everyone, but we held the phone for too long. When she got it back she stormed out of the room and left us feeling crummy and guilty and very sorry. We apologized, but I haven't talked to her since. She didn't come to school today, but for other reasons.

That was such a slam in the face! As Christians, we are definitely in a fishbowl. Everybody can see us and are watching our every move. I was not shining Christ's light when I joined in on the joke.

We had kids taking the PSAT this morning, so our classes were only 23 minutes each. I was one of the few sophomores that took the test this year and after I finished the test I still had 20 minutes until my first class started. With my crazy hectic schedule after school God blessed me with the time to step back from it all and open His Word for those 20 minutes. I got to read my Bible, finish my AWANA lesson for the week, and pray for the day ahead of me. That was my favorite part of today.

2 Corinthians 12:9;

"But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"

Psalm 43:3-4;

"Send forth Your light and Your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to Your holy mountain, to the place where You dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise You with the harp, O God, my God."

"Why do we worry or carry anxiety when we know our story is written, and written perfectly?"

-Caleb K.

Day 26

Day Twenty-Six

October 12, 2010

Yesterday I had to miss Bible Study to get caught up on homework and I'm still not quite there. I was so flustered and angry with myself when one of my best friends texted me random encouragement. She gave me the best advice anyone could give- to stop what I'm doing and give everything to God. She said, "God doesn't ever give you more than you can handle." So I did. My Bible opened to;

Isaiah 48:17a-18; "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea."

I'm still not entirely caught up, but I have so much more peace about the situation. And I have all the more willingness to buckle down and study. Not to get good grades, but to do everything wholeheartedly for God's glory.

I love this year in that everywhere I go I have somebody to smile at, wave to, laugh with, rejoice in Christ with. To study for a test in History today I Bible Quizzed with the two guys next to me, but using information from our text book. I have been able to build so many relationships and I still have eight months left!

We shall see who comes to youth group.

Jeremiah 29:11;

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

1 Corinthians 10:13;

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

Day 25

Day Twenty-Five

October 11, 2010

School on a Monday morning after a fun four day weekend? Maybe not the highlight of my week. BUT I need to set aside my opinions and wholeheartedly give every part of me for the glory of God.

Today God really tested me in my patience and organization. I have a lot of tests and projects throughout this week. I think I'm behind in every one of my classes. All through today there were kids who pushed my buttons! They wouldn't pay attention in class, asked the most random questions, and acted as if they were more important than everyone else. I only cracked once and I turned to Amanda in History with a really agitated face and complained about how obnoxious those people were. I caught myself after that. They're no better than me, but I'm no better than them, either.

We had a test in Chemistry. I do really well on my tests, so some people were asking me for answers. I had multiple opportunities to whisper answers without getting caught, and they were my friends- I didn't want them to fail because they mix up two vocabulary words. But I didn't cheat. If someone asked for help I would turn away and not pay attention.

So now it's on to studying, finishing homework, and getting ready for tomorrow's battles. This year is turning out to be way harder than I thought.

1 Chronicles 16:23, 34;

"Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim His salvation day after day. Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever."

Proverbs 29:11;

"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control."

Meet Alyssa

Alyssa D. Bio:

"I was raised in a perfect family, well, that was my opinion! When I was about 6 years old, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior! I went to church every Sunday and learned about who God is. I loved my parents and got along with my siblings, when I got into middle school I started to see my dad less and less. One day he came home and sat down with my siblings and I and told us that he was leaving. After that I began hating God. I hated my dad and my mom. I was a mess. Why would God allow my dad to leave my mom for another woman? My life was a mess. I began hanging out with wrong people and all I cared about was being popular and liked. I knew I was doing wrong... But I blamed it on what my dad did to our family. One day in church, Jeff Moorehead said that we can't blame our problems on other people and I realized that's exactly what I was doing. After that I got into a bible study and started changing my life. And even though my life is still a mess and I'm a mess, I love God and I'm God's mess now."

Alyssa is a part of The Fishing Project. She decided that God's purpose for her life was more important than fitting in. She decided to be bold in sharing her faith which is why she joined TFP. When asked how TFP was going and what it's all about, Alyssa replied; "The Fishing Project is taking the concept/idea of what we do in Montana and taking it into school. TFP is basically sharing the gospel and being a light for God in school. TFP at Highline has been AWESOME! I've helped start a prayer meeting on Wednesday mornings. I've been able to share with people about what I've been learning at church and what I've been reading about!"

Alyssa's favorite Bible verses include: Isaiah 53:5 "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." (emphasis added) "It makes me smile," says Alyssa, "it reminds me of what Jesus did for me."

Psalm 139:14 "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

"It reminds me that I'm fearfully and wonderfully made but so it everyone I meet and see!" Alyssa says.

Do you want to be bold in sharing YOUR faith like Alyssa is? Would you be ready to share your testimony on the spot if you were asked?
Want to know more about what The Fishing Project is, and what it means? Ask Alyssa!


""Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."" -- Matthew 4:19

Meet Colin

Colin K. Bio:

"I was born and raised in Federal Way, Wa. I grew up going to church every Sunday for Sunday school, A.W.A.N.A. on Wednesdays and youth group on Tuesdays. Although I was at church 3 or more days a week I didn't authentically know God. During 7th and 8th grade, I played b-ball at Sacajawea middle school. During these two years, I realized the sin in the world. Other students cursed A LOT, smoked, drank alcohol and looked at porn magazines around campus. All these temptations strained my relationship with God. As time went on I eventually realized my sinful nature and needed to figure out who I was living for, me or God?
Eventually I understood my priorities in life and decided to live for God. Over these past 2 years I have really begun to grow in my faith. I have started to really enjoy reading my Bible and praying. Now spending time with God is an important, necessary and desired aspect of my life."

Colin is a part of The Fishing Project. He decided to make a commitment to be more bold about sharing his faith with those around him. When asked about TFP, Colin replied; "The Fishing Project is a mission group founded by Amy... designed to reach out to the people of our schools and community, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ... It is going very well!"

Two of Colin's favorite Bible verses are:
James 1:2-4 "Consider is pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kids, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

"This verse really helps me know that God is always there for me," Colin says, "and through all things I am being cared for. Through trials I grow in my faith."

And; 1 Timothy 4:12 "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity."

"I love this verse because it inspires me to be an example for everyone, even those who are older than me." - Colin K.

Want to know more about TFP and how to get involved? Ask Colin!
Colin made the decision to be bold in sharing his faith, are you ready to make that commitment too?

""Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."" Matthew 4:19

Day 24

Day Twenty-Four

October 6, 2010

My name is Amy R. I am a sophomore in high school. I started The Fishing Project a few months ago as a way to keep me accountable to sharing Christ with others. I have been keeping this log as a constant reminder for myself, and as encouragement for all of you readers. The Fishing Project is not just for me and it's not just writing about my day. The Fishing Project is something you live- constantly sharing God's love with others and using every opportunity to spread the gospel.

Today I got to talk to my friend from English. She skipped a few classes this week, so she doesn't get a candy bar. BUT! She is getting so much better about watching her language! She is making some serious life-changing choices and today she spent her first period reading the Bible. I got to look through it and she was highlighting her favorite verses, asking questions, and really seems to care.

God hears our prayers. God loves us. God wants what's best for us.

2 Timothy 3:16;

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

2 Peter 1:5-7;

"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Day 23

Day Twenty-Three

October 5, 2010

God is faithful. He has a plan in place. He listens to our prayers. He provides for us and looks out for us.

I have a brother who got a nice study Bible. Two years ago. He lost that Bible and got it replaced. I found that very slightly used Bible a few months ago. It has no cover anymore, but other than that it is barely touched other than a few underlined or highlighted verses. Today I was blessed enough to give this Bible to my friend in English. We spent all of our class today going through different verses in the Bible, highlighting them, talking about them, and applying what the Bible says to our lives. We talked for well over an hour and she understands more than I gave her credit for. Praise God!

Her challenge for this month, along with her other friend, is to not cuss or use inappropriate language. SHE chose that challenge! The next two challenges for her to choose from are respecting her parents, and treating everyone with kindness and compassion, even if she doesn't like them. She told me that she picked the language challenge because, "If I work on myself first, then it will be easier to be nice to other people and I'll be more approachable." Amen! If only everybody could see that.

AND! As I was writing this, I got to watch my friend speak up about God and her love for Him on Facebook!

In French class I was reading one of my Bible study books and my teacher saw the cover. He told me about this app on the iPhone that has the Bible in every translation. I saw him look on his phone for the name of the app! I'm pretty sure my French teacher is a Christian? Encouraging :D.

Philippians 1:27a;

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ..."

Philippians 4:8;

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things."

Matthew 21:22;

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

Day 22

Day Twenty-Two

October 4, 2010

I am so worried. Not for tests or homework or anything about me. I'm worried about my friends at TJ. I really don't think that they understand the difference between believing in God versus living for God and completely giving your life to Him. One of my friends could be leaving very soon and won't be back for a few months! The last thing that I want is for her to fall back into the world and completely put aside what she knows is right. Who knew that I would care so much for people that scared me the first time I saw them? God knew.

These friends of mine might not fully understand what living a Christian life looks like, and how to go around applying what's in the Bible to how they live, but they do see me every day. I'm done slacking off. I'm done with just smiles and compliments. I need to show them more. They know that I'm different and I hope that they realize my life is better because of that difference. But I want them to see what this difference can mean for them. Christ is the difference. When we finally allow Him to take over our entire lives- from how we act around others to how we begin to think about them in our private thoughts to everything else about us- our entire lives begin to change. There's no possible way for me to explain this to them. It's something you can only learn through experience.

The expression "monkey see, monkey do" comes to mind. Maybe through my example, and the example of the other believers around them, they can see how they need to improve. I'm not perfect, though. Maybe through my flaws they can see that perfection isn't realistic either. PLEASE! If you are reading this, pray for my friends and all of the other lost people. People that still need to decide between the wide way and the narrow way of life. There are so many of God's people that still have to hear the full extent of the good news that is the gospel. So many people that we interact with on a daily basis, but might not look at twice. You know, I still haven't talked to that one girl that I share two classes with?

Pray, stay focused, live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ, constantly be on the lookout for those in need, and never take your eyes off of God and the ultimate goal in this life- to give all glory, honor, and praise to our Creator.

James 2:19;

"You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that- and shudder."

Matthew 6:24;

"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other."

Romans 12:2;

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- His good, pleasing, and perfect will."

Ephesians 2:10;

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Matthew 5:16;

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Matthew 7:13-14;

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

1 Thessalonians 5:14, 16-18

"And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Meet Mason

Mason F. Bio:

"I grew up in a Christian family and we were always very close. We shared everything together and we loved hanging out. My parents divorced when I was about thirteen years old, this turned me into a very secluded and sad person. My freshman year in high school I started getting into a ton of things that made me feel better about myself, I did some very bad things that I regret doing and all this continued up to my junior year. My sister Emma invited me to youth group that year and I hated it! I felt so out of place and like everybody there was perfect. Luckily the only person I did trust at this point of my life was Emma and the only one Emma trusted was God. She pressured me to come back and I eventually met some friends and the youth pastor. To my surprise they all accepted me and genuinely cared about me. I started coming every week and I learned about the things Jesus Christ had done for me. I realized that I am an imperfect person and I needed someone to forgive me. I realized the God who created you and I, the heavens and the earth, loves me and died for me so that I could be forgiven! I accepted God into my heart as Lord and Savior. Since then, our relationship has been growing like crazy and could not be better."

When asked what the Fishing Project is and how it's going, Mason responded:
"The Fishing Project is about sharing the Gospel and the word of God with people who need to hear it. The Fishing Project is going very well!"

2 of Mason's favorite Bible verses are these:
1 Timothy 4:12
"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."
"This gives me motivation to talk to anyone young or old." Mason says.

Romans 10:9
"That if you confess with your mouth that "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (emphasis added)
"This is how I know I am going to heaven!" Exclaims Mason.

Mason is apart of The Fishing Project, he has personally decided that he wants to be bold in sharing his faith with others, proclaiming the name of Jesus even though he may be rejected. Are you willing to share your faith against all odds?
Have any questions about The Fishing Project? What it means? How to join? Ask Mason!


""Come, follow me", Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him." Matthew 4:19&20

Day 21

Day Twenty-One

October 1, 2010

Oh my goodness I love Fridays! Today we had another assembly so my classes were less than 40 minutes long. YAY! Less thinking required!

In band we mostly listened to the director talk. I think we played music, but it was so boring and uneventful that I forgot what we did for sure...

In English I heard my friend talk about how she shared the gospel even MORE! Her friend that I also sit next to is starting to do the same challenges. They get to work together. Hopefully that encourages them to stick with the challenges, instead of encouraging them to slack off together. I got to invite my friend to Bible Study again. She even looked a little bit half way interested!

In Math I made friends with the people around me and we make jokes during class to make it more entertaining. Most of them are about our teacher because he is a little bit too in love with math. Smiling... in Math class?... I guess that with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:21)

History was very entertaining. And one of the cool things about my History class is that the gospel bracelet is spreading around. I have the two guys that also go to AWANA, there's a girl who says she's a Christian (and hopefully she can become less ashamed and more eager to share the news), and we have three girls from my youth group in that class. And it's all about History, so I can relate events recorded in the Bible to events recorded in the history book and report my connections out loud to the class!

In French and in Chemistry there is a student that sits behind me, a different student in each class, that is really quiet and nice. They aren't necessarily the first to be noticed by others, and usually fade into the background, but I always make it a point to say hi to them and try at a conversation, even if it's a short one. Those two probably have the best smiles I have ever seen.

OH! And in French we had an... interesting substitute. She started the class really happy and talkative, but when some students talked out of turn she became very irritated. We had to stay absolutely silent for fear that she might blow steam out of her ears! But God helped me to stay calm and not laugh, and I was rewarded by being able to help her understand our assignment. She smiled at me! In case you haven't noticed throughout my entries- smiles mean a lot- more than words.

James 1:19;

"My dear brothers, take note of this; Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."

Day 20

Day Twenty

September 30, 2010

I woke up in the morning to a text from my English friend that made my day! She told me about how she resisted temptation and got to share the gospel with one of her friends earlier that morning. I have no idea how much of that I can completely trust her on, but I know that my friend is trying really hard to do what she knows is right and to complete the challenge I gave her. You can definitely see a change in her just twenty days into the school year.

We got talking in the end of class about a rainbow. I asked them if they knew what a rainbow meant. Today the world has changed it into a symbol for gay rights, but the original purpose of a rainbow wasn't for gay rights, it wasn't a scientific thing that I can't explain, it was a promise from God to us. My personal opinion is that God made it scientifically possible because God always works with science, never against. God created science. The rainbow is an example of how you can't use science to lead away from the existence of God, it only pulls you closer to His truth. I didn't have time to explain the rainbow in class, but I'm putting the passage with the flood on my Facebook page.

In Chemistry I always start class the same way. While the first few people straggle into their seats I look around and say very excitedly, "GUESS WHAT?" They all look at me and then I say, "It's the last class of the day!" or "It's half way through the week!" or "I didn't spill yogurt on myself today!" or something all positive that gives them a reason to smile. I don't know about everyone else, but if I smile at the beginning of class then I can usually smile through the rest of it... besides math because I hate strongly dislike math. I'm getting better, though.

We had our first official Fishing Project meeting after school for everyone who signed up. It was so encouraging to see other students want to live for Christ in school!

After the meeting I went right back to school with my mommy for open house. I was one of the very very few students who actually showed up, but my mom got to walk through the maze that is my class schedule. I bet we burned 5 million calories together! (maybe not that much- but it seemed like it) The best part about it was that my teachers all smiled when they saw me walk in, so either they think I'm a good kid or they were told they had to smile. I'm pretty sure that some of my teachers are on my side. One of my teachers even smiles every time I talk about Jesus to my friends.

1 Corinthians 10:24;

"Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others."

1 Corinthians 10:13;

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. "