http://www.andysavage.net/blogBlog Updatesen-us On Tuesday, May 15 at 6:30pm, Highpoint Church , in cooperation with Germantown Baptist Church , is hosting the premiere of The Victor Marx Story. I have had the privilege of meeting Victor and watching his ministry (...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118931Wed, 16 May 2012 20:13:00 Z "My Sabbatical" 2012/5/16 - KL pending Over ten years ago, I answered what I sensed to be the call of God on my life to help start Highpoint Church . This calling was birthed out of a passion to see God do something great in the city of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118982Wed, 16 May 2012 01:42:00 Z "Act my age!" 2012/5/10 - published Kids can drive ya nuts! It seems like every kid has a sixth sense on how to push the limits of his or her parents. Last week we were on vacation in Disney World, which was tons of fun, but when you...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118911Fri, 11 May 2012 14:44:00 Z This weekend (Mother's Day), we will be dedicating a number of children at Highpoint . I am so encouraged by the stories I hear of families adopting a 7000Days vision as they raise their kids. As parents, we don't have a lot of time, a mere...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118878Thu, 10 May 2012 01:07:00 Z A firestorm started when Hilary Rosen took a shot at Ann Romney, presidential candidate Mitt Romney's wife, about her life as a stay-at-home wife and mother. The blogs and Twitter blew up, the pundits piled on, the networks angled for position....http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118352Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:24:00 Z I do a lot of teaching and writing about parenting. Most of it addresses the typical issues most parents face. However, there are some issues parents face that are starkly different from the rest. The issues I'm talking about are those that come...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118192Mon, 09 Apr 2012 02:03:00 Z Wednesdays from 6:30-8:00 PM in Room 216 April 11, 18, 25, and May 2 Are you beginning the adoption process or interested in a potential future adoption? Join us for this 4-week class to gain insight from the experiences of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118188Sat, 07 Apr 2012 18:31:00 Z It's Holy Week 2012. This is a vitally important week every year for born again Christians. Holy Week should set the tone for every other week of the year. This week encompasses the core of Christian belief. Everything in the Old Testament and the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118114Tue, 03 Apr 2012 01:22:00 Z This past Sunday at Highpoint Church , we started a 40-day emphasis called "The 7:14 Experiment." The idea came from the book The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson. The goal is to rally our church to pray in a very intentional way. Very...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118024Wed, 28 Mar 2012 01:08:00 Z When I wrote and produced the Giant Love book, I could have never predicted the response. The first printing sold out in less than two weeks. God is using this unique resource to create an opportunity for the Gospel to reach the next generation...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=118002Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:53:00 Z Tightrope The 7000day Balancing Act of Intentional Parenting Please visit 7000days.org and follow @7000days on Twitter to stay connected with great parenting truths and tips.  As we wrap up the Tightrope series at ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117966Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:45:00 Z March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day. 3/21 is a great reminder because the date itself reminds us of the source of the condition we call Down syndrome. The formal name for Down syndrome is Trisomy Twenty One. This means that there are three copies...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117746Wed, 21 Mar 2012 01:51:00 Z In a recent sermon in my Tightrope parenting series , (link) I spoke on the issue of forgiveness. My message was based on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18. My working definition from the challenging parable of the unforgiving servant was this: ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117657Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:00:00 Z   Forgiveness is an important element in parenting. You are going to be placed in many situations where you have to forgive your children. You may even have to ask them for forgiveness along the way. The best way for your children to...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117627Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:54:00 Z I use the phrase "carve a groove" often when talking to parents about the difficult job of raising kids. I believe it creates a mental picture of what it takes to move our kids successfully from "crib to college." Simply put, whatever we say or do...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117447Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 Z In our society and culture, it feels like we as parents are in a constant battle against the world when it comes to raising our kids. Because of this, we often times parent out of fear rather than faith. I asked Tim Kimmel about this in our...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117422Tue, 06 Mar 2012 20:12:00 Z When I sat down with pastor and author, Robert Lewis, he said that the most important element to a healthy family (when there are two parents present) is the relationship between a husband and wife. In this brief clip (:37) he speaks on the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117346Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:42:00 Z Training our kids to be honest is long, hard work. We must be committed to this lesson for the duration of our parenting. Honesty is the key to all healthy relationships, and our kids need to become instinctively honest people. This objective will...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117277Wed, 29 Feb 2012 03:03:00 Z In this short clip (2:39) from my interview with Tim Kimmel, he cautions parents not to "take the bait of the world" which says that you need to raise your kids to be 'successful.' Our society places its value of success on wealth, beauty, power...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117264Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:56:00 Z Parents, one of the enduring lessons of the 7000day balancing act of parenting is respect. We have a never-ending task of addressing issues related to the way our kids show respect. From the earliest days of life to the day the leave our homes, we...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117226Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:15:00 Z   I love, absolutely LOVE, what Tim Kimmel said in this brief (1:44) interview I did two years ago. He gives us the never fail formula or strategy for raising your kids right. "Raise your kids the way God raises His kids." Kimmel refers...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117220Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:22:00 Z As parents we must realize that our kids will fail. That is not the real issue. The question is, what will we do as parents to come along side them in their failure? What do our kids need from us when they mess things up? Now is a good time to...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117193Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:35:00 Z   Confession time. When I was in middle school, I was into sports (that's not the confession. Read on). I collected team hats, jerseys and considered being "knowledgeable about sports" a manhood rite of passage. So, my parents let me get a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117171Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:30:00 Z Yesterday at Highpoint Church I spoke on how we need to be intentional in our parenting. When I interviewed pastor and author Robert Lewis for the 7000Days series a couple of years ago, he had a very good guideline for how to do this..."Go...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117150Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:46:00 Z I have been a fan of Kevin Leman and his writings for years. I got the opportunity to interview him in 2010 for the 7000Days series. I love how blunt he is! Watch this clip on why he says praise is destructive in your children. For more...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117112Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:30:00 Z I had a great response to this morning's blog "A Man's Guide to Valentine's Day" so by popular demand, here is the guide for women. Ladies, your husband is not nearly as complex as you are. By and large, men think Valentine's Day as goofy. We...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117093Tue, 14 Feb 2012 23:05:00 Z Men, part of the calling of manhood is learning how to treat the woman you love. Let me let you in on a little secret. Today is Valentine's Day. In honor of the day, I have created a little guide to help you love your wife well this year. It is...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117078Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:15:00 Z Want to know the secret to being an "adequate" parent? Watch this clip from when I interviewed pastor and author, Robert Lewis, for the 7000Days series. Also, don't miss my new parenting series, Tightrope: The 7000 Day Balancing Act of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117065Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:28:00 Z   What does God want? From the looks of things in our world, this question causes some pretty challenging issues. Does God want children to die? Does God want it to rain or for the sun to shine? Does God want your team to win? Does God want...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=117038Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:28:00 Z At church on Sunday, I got to the service late because I was talking to folks in the lobby. By the time I got to my usual seat, it was taken. I decided to sit on  the far right side of the  auditorium, which gave me a unique  ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116827Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:10:00 Z On Sunday, January 29th, I attended a special service at Germantown Baptist Church. GBC is the church I grew up in and served for three years as the pastor to college students and young adults. In 2002, I resigned from GBC to help start ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116808Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:46:00 Z The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 makes Christian mission clear:  "And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116736Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:22:00 Z My name is Cooper, and I cannot read, write or type; nevertheless I decided to write a blog :) Today is my birthday. I'm five. So, I though I'd pass along five life lessons I've learned in my five short years. I hope you enjoy!   ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116720Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:02:00 Z In my experience, every challenge or crisis has two distinct phases or components, the active and the passive. The "active phase" is like being on the athletic field. Your mind is engaged more than your emotions. You are in a mode of constant...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116622Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:15:00 Z From Guest Blogger, Amanda Savage...My lovely wife! I wish I could say that prayer has always been a consistent and active discipline in my life. Unfortunately, the discipline of prayer has probably been one of the most difficult things in my...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116614Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:06:00 Z 1. "You are only as happy as you most unhappy child."   I'm not sure where this quote originated, but it really is true. We could debate the use of the word "happy," but the point is clear. As a parent your well-being in life is directly...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116588Mon, 16 Jan 2012 01:29:00 Z The ecclesiology (the theology of church) in most of the western world can be summed up in this phrase, "go to church." The ecclesiology of the Bible can be summed up in this phrase "be the Church." The difference is enormous. Going to church is a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116584Sun, 15 Jan 2012 02:45:00 Z My favorite Bible verse is Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified or discouraged, for the Lord you God will be with you wherever you go!" I adopted this verse as a my "life verse" as a teenager long...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116577Sat, 14 Jan 2012 03:43:00 Z God is answering prayers. Cooper is stable. His numbers are good, and we are enjoying a few minutes of peace in the CVICU (Cardio Vascular Intensive Care Unit). Blood. Our concern when we got the word of infection was the presence of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116545Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:40:00 Z I've hesitated to blog too much about Cooper but I feel the need to respond to the outpouring of care and support we have received. We are blown away by all the prayers, Facebook comments and shares, Tweets, texts, visits, food, gifts and calls....http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116524Thu, 12 Jan 2012 04:12:00 Z Parents who are married often deal with the struggle of keeping a vibrant marriage and personal life alongside the ever-continuous demands of raising kids. With the addition of children, it seems that minutes evaporate, hardly leaving time to...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116432Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:00:00 Z I like Target. I like the clean stores. I like the products and brands they offer. I like how happy my wife gets when she goes there. This week I have another reason to like Target...and a reason you should like Target too! You may have noticed...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116363Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:08:00 Z   Rock climbing is amazing. The pros somehow scale huge rock faces with little more than a half-inch finger hold. The entire process leaves the expert climber one false move from total failure. Most of us would not attempt to scale a rock...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116341Mon, 02 Jan 2012 21:49:00 Z I looked at my wife and verbalized the reality we were in as we checked our son into the hospital for open heart surgery. "Can you believe based on a computer image and a doctor's word we are letting our son get pumped full of drugs and...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116334Sun, 01 Jan 2012 22:15:00 Z What memories are you making this year? Memories are made from the behaviors, attitudes and words you share during special times like the Holiday season. You will make memories whether you like it or not. The power of tradition. It's not a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116164Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:39:00 Z Every year the debate ensues over whether Christians should or shouldn't include Santa in their Christmas traditions. In my experience, I've seen everything from idolizing Santa as the end all be all of Christmas to the other extreme of implying...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=116040Fri, 16 Dec 2011 23:33:00 Z Are you self-centered? I know that is an unfair question. Let's try that again. Do you know someone who is self-centered? You may not say it out loud, but you hate them, don't you? Hate is a strong word, so let's just say they aren't your favorite...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115958Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:00:00 Z I was recently asked by a loving wife to blog about the need for husbands to understand the importance of asking the question, "How can I help?" So, I've written this blog to reflect the comical and often true realities of husbands asking this...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115779Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:00 Z As Christmas approaches, I'm always looking for great new Christmas music to add to my collection. I always like to encourage you to support GOOD Christian music (the operative word there is "good"). This year I was surprised to see a tweet from...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115747Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:31:00 Z I wonder how many people could use God's help today? I mean that seriously. Sure, we all say we need God, but few of us truly seek God's involvement in our everyday lives...including me. Why does it feel so hard to seek God? I believe it is...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115728Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:00:00 Z I am excited to announce the release of my first children's book on December 11th, 2011. Like most parents, I spend a good bit of time reading stories to my kids before bed.This book is one that I am praying parents will add to their...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115668Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:00:00 Z Today, I celebrate ten years of marriage with my wife, Amanda. I know ten years is not that long in the grand scheme of things, but I think it is wise to embrace wherever you are in the marriage journey. We are crossing ten years, and I couldn't...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115556Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:00:00 Z Discipline and correction remains the constant challenge of parenting from crib to college. Every parent knows the struggle of wondering if they have been too hard or too lenient on their kids.The reality is, kids need discipline and correction....http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115455Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 Z I had the privilege to preview the new movie from Jon and Andrew Erwin entitled, October Baby . This movie delivers a moving story of forgiveness and redemption and elevates the value of human life unlike anything I've seen. I am...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115442Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 Z I would like to introduce and welcome the beautiful and talented Amanda Savage, my wife, as my guest blogger today. As we near the end of October and Down syndrome awareness month, I am pleased to pass along her thoughts and wisdom as she is the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115320Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 Z I'm about to wrap up another series on marriage at Highpoint Church . I love teaching on marriage. The only problem is not everyone is married. I remember being a single adult. Frankly, in the frustration of wanting marriage but still waiting, I...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115251Wed, 19 Oct 2011 01:03:00 Z A few years ago I began assigning some "marriage homework" to couples that were facing difficulties in their marriages. The goal of the assignment was to help couples see that the only real way to grow in marriage is for each spouse to take...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115229Tue, 18 Oct 2011 02:33:00 Z The child in the picture is my son, Cooper. He has Down syndrome. October is National Down Syndrome Awareness month so I thought I'd share some thoughts from a proud dad. I hope and pray this helps you as you interact with all types of special...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115205Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 Z Ok, social media is here to stay. One of my concerns is that we are on the front end of the curve of understanding the impact of social media on our lives. I have seen an alarming increase of marriage problems that center around the misuse or...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115200Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 Z Nearly every married person has asked this question. The undeniable path to a successful marriage is the vital decision to "die to self." This is the most challenging decision any married person can make. We are conditioned by our sinfulness and...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115091Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:00:00 Z Recently I've been teaching on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, including His work in our lives and specific discussions on the Gifts of the Spirit. It is such a BIG topic to summarize, but this is the statement that has served as the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=115004Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:15:00 Z Marriage is a ridiculous idea. The idea that two selfish people can make love work is frankly absurd. The core issue in marriage is the simple fact that you are selfish, and you are married, will marry or were married to a selfish person. What...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114993Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z   Today in "Stuff I Like," I want to feature the new worship album from an old friend of mine, Jon Shirley . The title is Heaven Hear Us . I do not claim to be the connoisseur of great musical taste, nor am I an expert on worship...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114956Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:11:00 Z   Proverbs 21:21 - He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.  “I can't stop this feelin' Deep inside of me. Girl you just don't realize What you do to me.  When you hold me in your arms...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114873Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z   Kids need concrete parent involvement. As much as we might try to convince ourselves, our kids have a real hard time accepting our good intentions and empty promises. Kids only count our actions. Don't miss this just because...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114842Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:41:00 Z   I'm pleased to post another excerpt from the Hero Handbook produced this summer to give men a devotional option that speaks directly into the lives and issues men face. If you like what you read click here to get your copy of the Hero...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114807Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:14:00 Z I like Speak Creative . Speak specializes in website design, website development, app development, internet marketing, print and graphic design for businesses, churches and non-profits of all types. Speak was started by my brother over ten years...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114764Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:43:00 Z I cannot begin to count the number of times I have given a Gospel invitation. It is a wonderful moment when you witness God change someone's life. I love to tell people that Jesus died on the cross to forgive their sin and offer them eternal life...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114716Tue, 13 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z  Every Monday I want to challenge men to be the "Hero" God intends them to be in life. A Hero is a man who constantly sharpens the following five character traits... 1) Speak Life, 2) Walk Wisely, 3) Choose Love, 4) Trust God and, 5) Control...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114711Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z   "I wanna go to Mamaw and Papa's house!" "I wanna go to Nana and Grandaddy's house!" I cannot tell you how often I hear those words come out of the mouths of my kids! We have a unique situation, our kids' grandparents each live...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114679Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z Today's edition of "Stuff I Like" includes a few blogs I've read in the last few days that I encourage you to read as well. I hope you enjoy! From Michael Patton - @CMichaelPatton @credohouse ...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114670Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:46:00 Z Comparison. Few things threaten the health and well-being of a marriage like comparison between spouses. It seems every couple goes through this like it's some evil right of passage in marriage. Unfortunately, many couples get stuck in a pattern...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114639Fri, 02 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z   One of the greatest parenting moves I've made in a long time is placing a spare queen sized mattress in the floor of our playroom. I have four boys. That's right, four. This means we wrestle, fight, jump up and fall down. This is how we...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114632Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:15:00 Z Ok, it's about time that I recognize the goodness that is YoLo. For the benefit of those NOT from the Memphis area, YoLo is a local dessert destination for frozen yogurt. Like you, I grew up with TCBY readily available, and TCBY deserves credit...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114615Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z   Guilty. That's the only way to describe my friend the day we had lunch. He had recently been battling some issues that had begun to affect his young marriage. His wife suggested we talk, so there we were at lunch. I began to ask him how...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114601Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:11:00 Z  Do you bring your passion to work? I am honestly tired of hearing people talk about wanting a job they can be passionate about. I know the joy of having a job that I love; however, I don't think the job is the issue; the issue is me. So...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114525Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z Last week, I endured one of the most challenging weeks in my ministry career. Most of it surrounded the tragic death of Jackson May, a one year old boy in our church. In addition, i was responsible for a weekend training event, a wedding,...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114458Wed, 24 Aug 2011 17:12:00 Z This week a family in our church entered into one of the darkest valleys anyone could face in life, the death of a child. I have had the difficult privilege of walking with this family through grief and pain I can hardly imagine. Below is the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114304Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:24:00 Z This post is intended specifically for the members and regulars of Highpoint Church, where I serve as Teaching Pastor. I've been thinking about the impact our church can have in our community and around the world. I think our people...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114275Wed, 17 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z   The other day I received a random email from a friend that included a suspicious link. Guys, you know what I'm talking about. Somehow, my friend's email address was used to send me a link to some website that undoubtedly contained some...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114260Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z "We just don't talk anymore." "We're just not as affectionate anymore." "It feels like we're living two different lives." "I love my spouse, but it feels more like we're roommates than husband and wife." These are examples of what many...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114257Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:08:00 Z   I LOVE making my kids sick. Before you call Child Services, hear me out. Here's an example of what I do. First, I get their attention. Then, I take my wife in my arms, and I plant a huge SMOOCH right on her lips! My kids go nuts. They cover...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114212Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z   This summer I created an ambitious summer reading book list. The one thing you need to know is that I'm an audio learner, which puts me in an elite group of only 7% of the population whose primary learning style is audible. So, I have...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114180Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z Not long ago, I was talking with someone who was sharing some of their life journey with me, and they began to apologize that their "testimony" of faith was not that exciting. You see, they were born in a Christian home. Just like my...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114194Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z   Almost everyone who reads this post can resonate with the frustration of trying to start a new discipline and failing. For years I did what lots of people do and started making New Years resolutions. And like most people, January would...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114179Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:15:00 Z   In every marriage there is a secret knowledge. Well, maybe not so secret, but a knowledge that you have about your spouse. Sure, maybe a few others know it, but it's a knowledge that carries power in your relationship. I call it the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=114150Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:00:00 Z   This week someone sent me a quote from a guy in our church. His name is Stein Lee. Yea, it’s a strange name. He was named after a German Olympic skier from the ‘50s. But the quote was worth passing along to you… “What the world calls a ‘man...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113844Tue, 19 Jul 2011 20:15:00 Z A friend who attends another church in our area emailed me the other day with the question, “How do you know when its time to leave a church?” As a pastor, I truly appreciated his question because most people are simply not that thoughtful about...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113755Thu, 07 Jul 2011 02:17:00 Z I remember as a kid being ordered by my dad to “cut the grass.” I naively responded, “how much will I get paid?” My dad proceeded to laugh and then delivered a line that I heard many times growing up, “you get three hots and a cot.” For those...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113698Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:08:00 Z Last Tuesday, June 14th at 8:17pm, my fourth son Ford Neil Savage was born. Obviously, we are happy and proud parents and obviously my wife looks awesome 5 minutes after delivery! However, this brings up a very pertinent issue in...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113655Tue, 21 Jun 2011 19:19:00 Z Please enjoy this entry from guest blogger, Casey Young. Casey is a great friend and lay-pastor in our church. I am always challenged by Casey's heart to challenge men to be, as he calls it, "Men of God." I hope you enjoy and pass this along to a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113633Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:06:00 Z Yesterday, I delivered part 2 of the Hero series at Highpoint Church . This series is directed toward men to “answer the call of Biblical manhood.” The title of the message was “Speak Life” which is the first of five character traits men should...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113575Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:39:00 Z A single guy, who was obviously eager to figure out the secret to discovering romance, recently asked me this question, “What do women want in a man?” He actually wanted me to help him with this research project by asking some of the young ladies...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113545Thu, 09 Jun 2011 19:51:00 Z Normal.dotm 0 0 1 357 2038 Highpoint Church 16 4 2502 12.0 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=113394Tue, 07 Jun 2011 15:31:00 Z Photo courtesy of Sophorn Ncrae © 2011 // norococo.blogspot.com My wife suggested we have a date night, so I made a few suggestions based on the gift cards I knew we had. I began with a personal favorite, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. We so...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112995Fri, 27 May 2011 15:10:00 Z I recently had the privilege to be the keynote speaker at the Houston High School Baccalaureate service, in Germantown, TN (my Alma Mater). It was truly an honor to be invites to such an occasion and to stand on the other side of the podium...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112811Tue, 17 May 2011 14:10:00 Z Yesterday was my wife’s birthday. And no I will not reveal her age even if you ask me 35 times. I have recently noticed the jokes on Twitter about pastors, especially those Acts 29 guys always referring to their wives as “hot” or number of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112788Fri, 13 May 2011 14:06:00 ZToday I had a discussion today with friend and mentor, Dr. David Olford or Olford Ministries International .  He posed a question that was very challenging, “Are we too smart for the Bible?” This question runs at the heart of our...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112663Tue, 26 Apr 2011 17:18:00 Z Today is the day known as Maundy Thursday during the Holy Week. This day represents the event surrounding the Last Supper. You will find that each Gospel writer is sure to include this important event in his document (see Matthew 26, Mark 14,...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112628Thu, 21 Apr 2011 15:24:00 Z I love good comedy. This video was sent to me and i got a kick out of it. There is something almost magical about the African American Church approach to the proclamation of the Gospel.  In this case, Steve Harvey channeled his inner pastor and...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112467Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:05:00 Z A few years ago I was challenged by this statement, "the difference in the men and the boys is how one handles his time." I absolutely believe this. I say this humbly and gratefully, for with God's help and blessing, I am very good at managing...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112573Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:52:00 Z Today I watched the following presentation from a TED conference featuring Benjamin Zander on Music and Passion.  This video is well worth your 20 minutes, especially if you are a parent or in some leadership role.  I was moved, impressed...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112456Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:13:00 Z The term that has become embraced by so many regarding listening is “active listening.”  Active listening reminds us that listening is not a passive activity.  This is the deceptive thing about listening is that fact that we...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112405Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:50:00 Z I love my morning commute. I very intentionally take the long way through my neighborhood, which takes me down some beautiful wooded streets.  I love any opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation, especially in...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112346Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:45:00 Z Spiritual warfare has two basic components. First, defense. The first response for any believer is defense when it comes to the attacks of Satan. He is the aggressor and is out to destroy us (1 Peter 5:8). Along with God’s armor, which equips...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112311Thu, 17 Mar 2011 19:24:00 Z Spiritual warfare is not a subject we discuss very much. To be honest, it always feels strange to bring it up because most of us tend to avoid the whole idea of evil and the Devil. However, it is true.  We have an enemy, and we are at...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112293Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:43:00 Z On a recent long flight from India to Chicago, I took a rare opportunity to watch a movie.  I actually watched four movies, but the one that impacted me the most was the 2010 film The King’s Speech starring Colin Firth as King George VI...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=112154Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:06:00 ZThis week I had lunch with probably the most honest and transparent person I’ve ever been around.  I’ve never seen someone so intentionally open about his or her flaws and imperfections.  The part that was so inspiring was the way he so...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111642Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:06:00 Z Bunko night is my wife’s only real outlet to be with her friends.  You have to feel for my wife living with all boys. When my three sons and I get together, it is a testosterone tornado that could give any female a run for her...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111481Tue, 11 Jan 2011 02:39:00 ZWhat do you see when you look in the mirror? What does God see? I think we may be shocked and even embarrassed to know how God sees us. When we see the outward appearance, flawed by our weaknesses and shortcomings we can feel defeated and...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111249Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:07:00 Z Kids love Christmas.  What kid wouldn't love Christmas? As a parent, I love watching my kids get excited about Christmas.  I love getting them gifts and raising their expectations about Christmas morning. In the midst of all the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111353Thu, 23 Dec 2010 16:23:00 Z   During the Christmas season we often overlook what seem to be peripheral characters in the Advent story.  One of those characters is Simeon.  For Simeon Christmas was not so much a beginning but a long awaited ending. Simeon for a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111337Wed, 22 Dec 2010 17:12:00 Z I was asked the other day what my top five favorite Christmas movies are and why.  So, i decided to enrich your Christmas experience with this humble (but correct) opinion! 1. It's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank Capra in 1946...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111245Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:06:00 ZI believe there are two types of people when it comes to Christmas; those who love family gatherings and those who would rather have their eyeballs scratched out by a ware-wolf.  Well, that could be an exaggeration; however, it is often the case...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111218Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:52:00 Z It amazes me how easily we forget the real object of our gratitude at Thanksgiving. This holiday was established in 1621 by Pilgrims who decided to thank God for his provision and care for their lives in the struggle to establish a new life in a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111167Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:20:00 Z Have you seen this sign?  Do you take comfort in rituals? If you've been in a Starbucks lately, I'm sure you've noticed this slogan adorning the front door. I think it's interesting that Starbucks is appealing to people with the idea of...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111139Thu, 18 Nov 2010 23:50:00 ZI spent the week at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico. For the middle of nowhere it's a beautiful place. This was the setting for the CLASS Christian writer's conference. This experience was an eye-opener for a young writer like me. Here are my...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111089Tue, 16 Nov 2010 02:49:00 Z I'm a Pastor and a CrossFitter. I like to work out. As a pastor, I feel we must model and teach good physical health. Our bodies are a gift of God and should be managed well. I spend so much time talking about spiritual health and often neglect the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111055Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:03:00 Z This morning I was leaving the gym and got caught at a red light.  When normally this kind of inconvenient delay in my plans would simply add to my impatience, it dawned on me to take the opportunity to pray.  Obviously this did not come...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=111032Tue, 09 Nov 2010 18:09:00 Z I have just begun reading through the New Testament starting in the book of Acts. I have chosen to read in the New Living Translation to get a different take than my usual New American Standard/New International Version Parallel Bible. I recommend...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=110838Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:29:00 Z Share | Today I was challenged by Philippians 1:21 and thought I’dpass along the conviction via a quick exposition of this passage… Philippians 1:21 “For to me, to live is Christ and todie is gain.” “For to...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=109258Tue, 27 Apr 2010 19:50:00 Z Share |   Proverbs 20:24 "A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his ownway?" "What will you be when you grow up?" "What is your careerpath?"  "What is your 5-yearplan?"  In light...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=109200Tue, 20 Apr 2010 13:08:00 Z Share | Let the Nations Be Glad by John Piper is a MUST read for any Christian. In fact, i would recommend it to any non-believer who has ever wondered what it means to be a Christian. With so many...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=109178Thu, 15 Apr 2010 14:29:00 Z Share | This week I received an email from a friend asking what I thought about Bay Area Fellowship’s (a thriving church in Corpus Christi, TX.) Easter promo.  From their website this is the promo for...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=109045Wed, 31 Mar 2010 21:50:00 Z Share | Last Sunday I challenged the parents, grandparents and future parents of Highpoint Church to write their personal testimonies as a special gift to their children.  I think...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=109026Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:47:00 Z Share |   Jeremiah 23:5-6 5 "The days are coming," declares the LORD,        "when I will raise up to David a righteous...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108946Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:18:00 Z Share | “We have a communication problem” I hear this nearly every time I sit with a couple for marriage coaching, in fact it happened today!  I have to keep myself from laughing most...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108585Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:29:00 Z Proverbs 24:19-20  Do not fret because of evil men       or be envious of the wicked,   for the evil man has no future hope,        and the lamp of the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108483Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:49:00 Z Share |         “Snowprise” or “Snowbody saw this coming” or my personal favorite…...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108344Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:06:00 Z Share |   I constantly hear Christian leaders today challenge the Church to take up the call of social justice…and I totally agree. However, I do not hear the outcry for justice for the...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108074Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:12:00 Z Share | I got to thinking about my New Year's resolutions and had the thought that Satan probably also makes a list.  This is specifically for my world at Highpoint Church - but a great reminder to us...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=108006Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:40:00 Z Share | Monday afternoon I started having severe pain in my abdomen.  After blaming Milano’s pizza for my troubles I find out I’m showing all the signs of appendicitis.  To make a long story short –...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107833Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:39:00 Z Share | Christmas is ultimately about Mercy.  Mercy is NOT getting what we clearly deserve.  Christmas is the story of God doing what He did not have to do.  He sent us a Savior, His only Son...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107784Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:36:00 Z Share | Don’t miss this.  Christmas in a Red Bag (CRB) has become one of the best ways I keep Christmas in perspective.  It is so easy to turn a season that is definitively about giving into a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107752Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:43:00 Z Share | I think many of us make the Thanksgiving Mistake.  It is this mistake that affects whether or not we are truly thankful.  I believe strongly that one of the essentials to a healthy...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107713Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:21:00 Z Share | Psalm 119:9 “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.”     Men, pay attention.  This truth is powerful. Psalm 119:9 talks about a man keeping...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107583Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:45:00 Z Share |     A few lessons I’ve learned on hiring church staff members… 1.    Your vision MUST be the main attraction and the greatest part of the compensation package....http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107360Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:16:00 Z Share | It so happens that October is a big “awareness” month.  Great causes like Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence and lets not forget Clergy appreciation! Among the many great causes October is near...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107345Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:13:00 Z Share | Today I read a stat that 76% of pastors are either overweight or obese!  I couldn’t believe it…well I could but it was still shocking to hear.  The hypocrisy of the situation is obvious but...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107338Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:59:00 Z Share | 1. Burden.  I usually feel a certain passion for every message I teach however this morning I felt a heavy burden.  I sensed that God truly wanted to speak to our church.  I...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107264Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:32:00 Z Share | The Nobel Peace Prize is the hottest topic on Facebook and Twitter today and if you don’t know why, I’m not telling you!  However, it did get me thinking.  This coveted award is granted...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107249Sat, 10 Oct 2009 03:01:00 Z Share | Falling Short. “Sin is both the overstepping of a line and the failure to reach it- both transgression and shortcoming.   Sin is a missing of the mark, a spoiling of the good, a...http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107235Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:02:00 Z Recently,  I read this article from my favorite author, John Ortberg.  It is called the Sin Tamer which pairs perfectly with my current series, Fallen.  Click here to read the SIN TAMER. I hope it makes sense.  AS http://www.andysavage.net/default.aspx?p=84018&beid=107161Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:45:00 Z