Praying can be as easy as talking to a friend.  The verses from last night were: Luke 11:1-13; 1 John 5:14-15; Philippians 4:6; 2 Chronicles 7:14-15; Psalm 145:18.  God loves everyone around us.  Is there someone you need to pray for?  Is there someone who needs to experience God’s love?  God’s love is brought to full expression in us (1 John 4:12).  Oh, How he loves us.  Last night’s songs were The Fast Song by Matt, He Lives by Generation Unleashed, Rhythms of Grace by Hillsong United, and How He Loves by John Mark McMillan (Here’s a link to the video about that song).

This month’s featured artist is Aaron Gillespie, frontman of The Almost and former Underoath drummer.  Check out his new worship CD.  If you’re keeping track, January was Lecrae (free music through that link right now) and February was Hillsong United.

Congrats to Anna for wearing her best Western.  Don’t forget next week we are NOT meeting at Oak-Land because of Spring Break.  We’re going to see a movie at Carmike Theaters in Oakdale.  The cost is $5 and we’ll text everyone the movie and time next week.

There are two types of people in this world… life givers and life suckers.  Don’t be a sucker.  God wants us to speak life into everyone around us (Proverbs 18:21; Romans 12:19-21; James 3:7-12).  Also remember that God is bigger than any “giant” standing between us and God’s promises.  You are NOT a grasshopper.  Hold on to His promise of love and hope for our future.  He is ALL that you need.

Congratulations to Natasha and Logan for being the best nerds!  Next week is “True Grit” night so come dressed Western-style.  Last night’s songs were Go and Lead Me to the Cross by Hillsong United, Holding Nothing Back by Tim Hughes, and The Anthem by Planetshakers.  Can’t wait until next week already!

Youth group and the relay tonight was a blast!  The leaders are calling for a relay rematch with the Sr. High though ;)  If you get a chance, read about Josiah in 2 Kings 23.  I think it would be cool to be remembered long after I’m gone as someone who followed God with all my heart, soul, and strength.  How would you want to be known?

Tonight marked the end of our 8-week Descent series in which we talked about Abraham (following God by leaving his home town), Jacob (who wrestled with God), Joseph (who chose to “give life” to his brothers), Ruth (who followed God as her mother-in-law did), Bathsheba (who made sure her son became king), David (who was a man after God’s heart), Hezekiah (who cleared the Temple), and finally Josiah (who served God with all his heart, strength, and soul).

Tonight’s songs were Towards You, Freedom is Here, and Shout Unto God by Hillsong United and You Won’t Relent by Misty Edwards.  I’m looking forward to next Wednesday and our new “Reload” series.  We’re mixing some things up.  You don’t want to miss it!