Shining the Light J103 http://www.j103.com/ Shining the Light J103 en J103 http://www.j103.com/img/layout/j103_logo.png http://www.j103.com/ 129 129 Putting others first Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2012/01/putting-others-first Today I lost a friend.  Julie Shaw has been on many prayer lists, including ours here at J103.  She battled Stage 4 Colon Cancer for over a year, and today she went home to Jesus at the incredibly young age of 41.

Julie was the most desperately ill, yet most positive and encouraging person I've ever known.  In the worst of times, her thoughts were always for others.  I never saw her complain, yet always saw her encourage those around her.

Only  God knows the lives she touched throughout her ordeal.  And the impact of putting others first is very clear. I can learn a lesson from her and you probably can too.  No matter what you are facing today, someone else probably has an equal or greater need.  Let's remember to encourage and lift each other up every single day!

And one more thing. I praise God because my friend is COMPELTELY HEALED and she is at the feet of Jesus today! So, in the sadness, rejoice with me for that.  And please keep her husband Tim and her two young children in your prayers.

For Julie and her family...this song is for you:






]]> Day of Giving.....why? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/12/day-of-givingwhy If you're listening to the radio today, and I hope you are, you've noticed it sounds like we are doing a shareathon.  In December? Why? Let me go on the record. We'd rather not be doing this today. The truth is, we fell short of meeting the need in the fall and that's why we're asking for your support today.  I know it's almost Christmas and you are stretching your budget already to buy presents for everyone on your list. I realize this may not be the best timing.  But I ask you simply to stop and think about what J103 means to you and your family.  And secondly, in a season where we focus on others....think about the testimonies you hear of lives that are forever changed by the saving grace of Jesus Christ.....found through the music and ministry of J103.  It's not about us, it's not about paying the bills...it's about you....and it's about them. Those who are reached by this ministry. Thank you for standing with us today!

]]> Occupy..... Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/11/occupy Deer  Occupy.........Church?

Here's a novel idea.   Get off Wall Street and stop camping out in downtown Chattanooga.  If you have a job, go to work. If you are unemployed, look for work.  If you still have time on your hands?  Occupy CHURCH! And pray for our country and it's leaders.  Just a thought.

]]> Bowling....and other things.... Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/10/bowlingand-other-things I decided to take the family to Pin Strikes last week for the J103 bowling night extravaganza.  I used to bowl...should be like riding a bike...right? 
First frame...two gutter balls.
Second frame....two gutter balls.
Third frame...finally a spare, I've got this figured out now!

Things went well for awhile then I hit another stretch of 1 and 2 pin misery. 

Then the next day....as I crawled out of bed I realized it's been 25 years since I last went bowling. Wow how the time flies.  So although we had a blast I did pay for it a little the next day.  But I also realized how fast time marches on.  We get so busy, life just flies by!

How could I enjoy something so much....and yet 25 years slip away before I realize I've not been in a bowling alley?  Guess it says a lot about being "too busy".

Are you "too busy"?  What things have you let slip by that you wish you'd taken more time for?

]]> Dead Heroes Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/10/dead-heroes I'm going out on a limb here....and someone may saw it off....but I gotta ask this question:  Why is it that everyone becomes a hero when they die?  It doesn't matter if it is a pop star, a fabulously successful business man or a movie or television star. They die, and suddenly they are the greatest inspiration ever!

Like I said...maybe I'm the only one on the edge of this limb....but....I am going to go on out the the very edge.

Let's not idolize people who have no profession of faith in Christ....just because they say "nice" sounding things.  There are a lot of lost people out there that can put together a great quote.

Model yourself after the ultimate hero. Jesus Christ.  He's got the whole plan written down for you.  If we strive to be more like him and quote his famous sayings and pay tribute to him every day....I think we'll be a lot better off.

Am I the only one out here?

]]> Fall Friend Raiser Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/09/fall-friend-raiser It's that time of the year again.  After day one, I want to say THANK YOU to those who have stepped up and said "I want to be part of changing lives in the Tennessee Valley".  You've still got two more days to join us!  Every donation you make to the ministry of J103 has a direct impact on someone's life.  We hear from so many people who are dealing with health, family, financial, etc. issues and God uses the music on J103 to give them hope and healing.  You make it possible.
Thank you so much.  Listen Wednesday and Thursday and you'll hear the stories of changed lives...and have an opportunity to be part of making an impact.  God Bless You!

]]> Could Amy Winehouse Have Been Saved? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/07/could-amy-winehouse-have-been-saved It's the title of a news story this morning on the Today show.  But they weren't talking about Amy giving her life to Christ, who died on the Cross to pay the price for her sin (and mine. and yours).  They were talking about her getting help with her various drug addictions.  Their version of saved:  Getting off drugs and living a longer life.

So the answer to the question?  Yes and Yes.  Jesus died on the cross even for people with despicable lives.  He died for people we write off every day.   Jesus Christ died for Amy Winehouse. So yes. She could have been saved.

There are some great drug rehabilitation facilities that are very skilled at helping those with addicitions.  So yes. She could also have been saved from her bad habits and her life on earth potentially prolonged.

But here's the burning question that will make you squirm...(like it does me).  If Amy Winehouse had come in contact with you (or me) would she have heard about Jesus from us and had the opportunity to be saved? Or would we have crossed the street and walked down the other side...pretending we didn't notice her?

So, now that you've had a moment to contemplate your answer...here's a final thought.  It's too late for Amy Winehouse.  But what about the person that lives in your neighborhood, works with you, goes to school with youi?  What about them?  It's not too late. 

Don't cross the street and walk down the other side.  Proclaim the Gospel with boldness and share Christ with Love....with the Amy you know.

Just ponder the words to this Casting Crowns song:
She is running
A hundred miles an hour in the wrong direction
She is trying
But the canyon's ever widening
In the depths of her cold heart
So she sets out on another misadventure just to find
She's another two years older
And she's three more steps behind

Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see?
Or does anybody even know she's going down today
Under the shadow of our steeple
With all the lost and lonely people
Searching for the hope that's tucked away in you and me
Does anybody hear her? Can anybody see?

]]> True Character Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/06/true-character It's amazing how your circumstances reveal your true character.  I've been watching two good friends deal with the horror of cancer and have been amazed by them both.  They've both maintained an incredibly good attitude during their trial.  When somebody that is in their darkest days can reach out to others and minister and encourage them it is truly amazing. And it's a display of truly amazing character. 

I'm inspired by people lke Mike Lee....(read his blog).....and my friend Julie in Birmingham...both dealing with the horrors of cancer....and I am made to realize that what ever issues/problems I perceive that I have....are not problems at all. I'm blessed and very thankful.

So thanks to both of you, for being great examples for all of us to follow!  And thanks for letting God's light shine through you...through the darkness you find yourself in!

 

]]> Mama Can't Get You Into Heaven Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/05/mama-cant-get-you-into-heaven I read the news today on Facebook. A guy that was once a real hero of mine passed away this week.  He was the afternoon guy at the first radio station I ever worked at.  He had one of the most exciting shows on radio! A high energy guy that brought his A game to the air every day. 

But he never gave his life to Christ. In fact, on his Facebook page, he proudly lists himself as an agnostic.  NO GOD.  Unfortunately he knows now that THERE IS A GOD! But he found out too late.

All over his facebook page are comments about how he's in heaven now with his sweet mama.  It saddens me greatly to think that he probably isn't.  But it saddens me more that so many of his well meaning friends think he's in heaven just cause he was a nice guy.

The Bible says the only way to heaven is through a belief in Jesus Christ as the only Son of God, who died on a cross to pay the price for our sin. A price we couldn't pay.  A price an agnostic can't pay. 

Let's never get confused about this!  Mama can't get you into heaven. Only surrendering YOUR HEART to JESUS!  I'd like to think that maybe He did give his life to Christ and just never got around to changing his reliigious beliefs on his facebook page.....but really?

Don't count on mama. Give your life to Christ today if you haven't already!

]]> Over 85 Number One songs! The Christian Classic Tour.... Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/05/over-85-number-one-songs-the-christian-classic-tour The Christian Classic Tour is coming to Chattanooga. This is a night you do not want to miss.  The Christian Classic Tour hits Chattanooga this Sunday night at Abba’s House in Hixson.  Steve Green, Twila Paris, Michael Card and Wayne Watson…together for the first time ever in Chattanooga.


 


Between the four of them they have over 85 Number One Songs!  Collectively they’ve recorded over 100 albums, have over 30 Grammy’s and 30 Dove awards and between the four of them have sold millions of albums!


 


We’ll be broadcasting The Weekend Rewind, live from Abba’s House this Sunday from 4 to 7pm, just prior to the concert.  We’d love to have you stop by and say hello.  But MORE importantly….DON’T MISS THIS EVENING!


 


Get your tickets now at Abba’s House bookstore or online at www.christianclassictour.com.

]]> Winning! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/03/winning There's a popular movie and television star who has made the phrase "Winning!" a household word lately. But what does it really mean to be "winning?"  The Bible says in Psalm 20:5 "Then we will shout for joy over your victory; we will rejoice in the name of our God! May the Lord grant all your requests!"  That my friends is the true defninition of "winning".  Check this out...where do the "wins" come from? Psalms 118:16 says, "The Lord's right had gives victory, the Lords' right hand conquers."  Proverbs 21:31 says "A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory is from the Lord." 

So, next time you want to feel like a winner....celebrate the victory you already have in Jesus. Look to Him for the TRUE definition of winning, not some guy from Hollywood!

Want more? Read Romans 8:37 which says "no, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us!" and 1 Corinthians 15:57 says, "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!"

We're on the side that is....you guessed it.....Winning!

]]> Thank you for supporting the ministry of J103 Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/03/thank-you-for-supporting-the-ministry-of-j103 This is the critical day...the final day....of Spring Shareathon 2011.  It's always amazing to see how God works in the hearts of those who choose to stand behind the ministry of J103. But my favorite part of a shareathon is hearing the testimonies of those who have been touched by the power of Christian radio.  I first felt the power of Contemporary Christian Music and discovered just how God uses it...way back in 1983. Every week a new song comes along that reaches out and touches me all over again. It's awesome to be a part of this ministry...and today is the day you get to be a part of it as well! Thank you to those who have already given...and thanks in advance to the ones that are going to take us over the top today! We love you and know this ministry wouldn't be here touching lives every day....without you!

]]> The Grace Card Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/02/the-grace-card There is a movie that YOU HAVE TO SEE...opening this Friday night at Wynnsong Theater off Gunbarrel Road.  We'll be broadcasting live from the theater, 4 to 7 and would love for you to join us. The movie is about grace and forgiveness and it will definitely have an impact on you. I saw a pre-screening and really thought it was amazing.  Plus, you'll have a chance to "play the Grace Card" with people you know.
Come to the movie to find out what I'm talking about!

]]> Not in MY HOUSE Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/02/not-in-my-house You've heard every football team in America do it.  They boast that nobody will come in and beat them on their own field. They pound their chests and yell "Not in my house". Ever felt like Christians do this within the body of Christ?  We mark off our territory and stake our claims, come what may. Mine Mine Mine.  What's the most important thing the church can do today? UNITE!  An old Russ Taff song from my early days in Christian radio says:
You're my brother you're my sister
so take me by the hand
Together we will work until He comes
There's no foe that can defeat us
if were walking side by side
As long as there is Love
We will stand.

Even better, the Word of God says in Romans 15:5 (NIV)
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.

Please join me today and pray that we will all learn this incredibly valuable lesson from God's word.

]]> They need us in Mozambique Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/02/they-need-us-in-mozambique You've heard us today, talking about the needs in Mozambique and what Cross International is doing about it.  This is real stuff. These kids are completely abandoned, left to fend for themselves. The parents don't help, the govenment doesn't help.  And yet, there are loving families in the area that would give anything to take these children into their homes and make them part of their family.  They simply don't have the means to do so.   That's where you come in.  Your donation today and tomorrow to Cross International will help to connect these loving families with the children that are in such desparate need.  Wanna really make a difference in the world?  Listen in and learn more...or check it out at the top of this page!

]]> Update on the man with the golden voice Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/01/update-on-the-man-with-the-golden-voice I'm sure you've seen the latest on Ted Williams. He's been on Dr. Phil having a really tough go of it and now he's headed to rehab.  Seems he might not have conquered the demons of his addictions after all. I also notice that his family has little faith in him. I don't think they really believe he'll make it.  They are waiting, expecting another failure. In many ways, it seems that they've given up on him.

So, as I often say, what does this have to do with you?  It's this:  If you are in a place in your life, where you've had it and lost it all...and now you're trying to put the pieces back together...like Ted Williams....know this. Even if your family has given up....GOD HASN'T! He knows your going to stumble and fall. He knows you're not perfect. That's why He sent His perfect son to die for you.  So, be encouraged today. It doesn't matter what the people around yoiu may say. It doesn't matter what the headlines would report about your progress.  What matters is God's Amazing Grace.  He loves us even in the pitiful state we're in. 

I know that somebody out there reading this is in this very place I speak of. Your family has written you off.  You've failed many times before and they say, "Why should this time be any different?"

BUT GOD says....Trust Me. Lean not on your own understanding, acknowledge me, I'll direct your path.  He's ready to give you that second chance...against all odds.  Don't be afraid to take that first step back toward Him. 

Pray for Ted Williams. Pray he'll grow in his relationship with Christ and pray that he will overcome.  I"ll do the same for you!

]]> The Prodigal Son with The Golden Voice Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2011/01/the-prodigal-son-with-the-golden-voice You're probably one of eleven million people that have seen the video of Ted Williams...the man with the golden voice, but if you've been in a cave...here are the cliff notes:  Friday December 31, 2010 Ted Williams is homeless, scruffy, living on the street, standing on a corner with a cardboard sign.  Today he is the talk of the nation....the new voice for Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, probably the voice of the Cavs, a guest on the Today show two days in a row and the Jimmy Fallon show last night.  Everyone loves this story.  But I see GOD's hand all over this story in so many miraculous ways.

This is a real prodigal son story and a great radio story.  I'm a bit of a prodigal son myself and being a life-long radio guy....this one hits me right between the eyes.

Ted Williams had it all...the voice so many of us only wish we had....a wife and family....a budding career.....a mother that loved and prayed for him.  But alcohol and drugs took over his life. He lost it all and spent nearly two decades living on the street.  But here's the good part. He had a mother that NEVER stopped praying for him, and a Saviour that NEVER gave up on him.

Now, like the prodigal son of the Bible...Ted Williams has come home. He credits his praying mother and his faith in God as the two things that have turned his life around.  I'm cheering for him.  And I'm praying for him. I pray that this time...he'll cling to Jesus....not to his addictions....and this time....his mother's prayers will finally be answered. The Prodigal Son will be home for good.

So, what does all this have to do with you?  I don't know. You tell me.  Are you running from God? You may not be homeless, with a sign on the side of the road.....but you still may be running.  Have the ones you loved written you off? Given up on you?  GOD HASN'T!  I'm watching every step of Ted's story unfold and I'm celebrating all the way.  But I'd love to celebrate with you. Is today your day to come home?  Jesus is waiting.

]]> Where's the line to see Jesus? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/12/wheres-the-line-to-see-jesus By now I'm sure you've heard the new song from Becky Kelly called "Where's the line to see Jesus."  It is an amazing song, with an amazing behind-the-scenes story.  If you've missed the story, here it is. Becky, while shopping with her little nephew in the mall....walked past the long lines to see Santa.  The boy stopped and looked at his aunt and asked, "Where's the line to see Jesus?"   She was so touched by the innocent but wise question...she went home and wrote a song.  Becky isn't a singer, but she felt strongly that the song needed to be heard. She created a demo and began shopping the song in Nashville to see if someone would pick it up and record it.   Three years later, still no takers. Undaunted, she recorded the song and video and it has become an "overnight sensation" on the web. 

I checked with the Christian bookstores and just as I suspected, the song is not yet released. So keep listening because we will be playing it here on J103.

So, what about the question in the song?  Don't get me wrong, Santa and toys is something that has always been a part of our Christmas. There is such joy in seeing the eyes of a child awakened to surprises under the tree on Chrstimas morning.   But, I hope this year and every year, that you take the time to make sure your children understand what Christmas is REALLY ALL ABOUT.  

GOD sent his ONLY son to earth just for us.  He came in the most humble and unexpected way.  Born in a stable surrounded by a bunch of animals?  A Baby that would save the world? How could it be?  Yet it was....

Keep Christ in your Christmas this year....and make sure there is a line to see Him in your life.

]]> Praise Him and Thank You for being One of a Thousand! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/11/praise-him-and-thank-you-for-being-one-of-a-thousand God is Good!  As i write this the phones are ringing as many of you are calling in to be One of a Thousand today.  Thank you!  From the bottom of our hearts we all want to say thank you to each and every one of you.  We praise Him every day that we have the opportunity to work in this ministry. The staff here feels so blessed just to be a part of what God is doing here.  And that's the thing. It's NOTHING we do, but EVERYTHING He does! And your gifts keep that going on 102.7, 103.1 and 105.9 FM...along with J103.com and now on your android phone or iphone!  You are part of changing lives all over the Tennessee valley and now more than ever....all over the world!  Thank You Thank You Thank You!!!

]]> We're back on the air! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/11/were-back-on-the-air God is Good!  Yesterday's fire may have taken J103 off the air for a day, but by God's provision we are back on today. A familiar and much loved verse is this one:
Genesis 50:20 NIV: 20You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 
As I looked at the photos coming in from our engineer, I couldn't help but think how the devil would love to consume J103 with fire! It's one of his favorite tools.   But God....came to our rescue!  The fire truly could have been a lot worse. Praise the Lord our tower wasn't damaged and the building that burned to the ground was NOT the one with our transmitter in it.  God is Good!
Is the devil trying to consume you with fire?  Is your family under attack?  Remember the verse above and know that God is working on your behalf.  He knows what's going on in your life right now. He hasn't forsaken you. He's not busy somewhere else.   Just trust Him completely today. He has the answer. He can put out the fire in your life today!

]]> Fire! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/11/fire By now you've realized that we are off the air.  Last night we were knocked off the air because of a fire!  I've been knocked off because of failed equipment, tornadoes, hurricanes, air conditioning failures, etc.  But I don't think I've ever seen this one.  Check out the photos at the top of the page for a visual. A brush fire got way out of control on top of Lookout Mountain where our tower and transmitter are for 102.7.  The worst news is, when 102.7 is off...so goes 103.1 and 105.9.  The good news is, no one was injured and we did not suffer a total loss. We expect to be back on tonight sometime.  Thanks to the firefighters and our fearless engineer!  So, thank you for your prayers as we work to get back on the air.  And, please remember what Smokey Bear says....."Only you can prevent forest fires!"  Be careful out there!

]]> Choosing to See Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/10/choosing-to-see Choosing to See.  It’s the name of a new book from Mary Beth Chapman. But it’s so much more. It’s an amazing story from the life of Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman. And I’m excited to report that it has risen all the way to number 21 on the New York Times Bestseller List!  I’ve been reading the book and find it absolutely amazing. I also realize that not everybody knows the Chapman story.  If you somehow missed it, here it is:  On May 21, 2008, while Steven was working, Mary Beth was in the kitchen and the kids were playing in the yard.  Their young daughter Maria saw their teenage son Will pulling into the driveway. As she ran toward him, he didn’t see her, and the unthinkable happened.  His vehicle hit her and her life ended that day as a result. It’s unthinkable, unimaginable, and unbearable that one of your children could be responsible for the death of one of your other children. How could this happen?  But there are bigger questions….How has Steven stayed on the road, singing and proclaiming God’s love to thousands a night?  How has Mary Beth gone on the road with him to share her story from stage? How did she find it possible to write a book about it all?  The answer? GOD’S GRACE.  In a most amazing way, God has covered the Chapmans in an immeasurable amount of His grace since that awful day in May of 2008.  Now, I have to confess, I missed the whole Chapman drama in May of 2008, because I had my own drama going on at that time. I had just lost a job and thought my world was coming to an end. My drama seems pretty trivial now, compared to what they were going through. But reading this book has helped me to realize something very important.  Through it all, God has bestowed the same Grace on me and my family as he has the Chapmans. My point in this? For you, whatever you are facing today, God’s Grace is enough.  The Chapmans and the Greens both chose to See. To believe that God would bring them through. And He has. He always does. And He always will. Whatever you face in your life today…no matter how small or how huge…God’s Grace is enough. Don’t let go. No matter what. Victory is on the way! And get a copy of her book.  It will help you, Choose to See!

]]> Thank you! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/09/thank-you Thank you to everyone who participated in our Fall FriendRaiser last week. Without you the ministry of J103 could not continue to touch and change lives.  You make it possible for the good news of Jesus Christ to go forth over the air and through our online stream.  So, thank you for obeying God's prompting to be a part of the J103 family.  If you didn't give, but would like to, you can always call the station at 423-892-1200 or give securly online at j103.com.  Just click the Donate Now button!  Thank you again for standing behind the ministry of J103! God Bless You!

]]> It ALL Counts Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/09/it-all-counts It's that time again. Fall FriendRaiser. The time we ask for new friends to partner with this ministry.  As you listen between now and Thursday afternoon, please pray and consider how you can be a part of what God is doing through this, HIS radio station.  And remember, whether large or small, your donation matters. It ALL counts! So, regardless of what you are able to do, you are a vital part of a ministry that touches and changes lives!  Please pray and then call us at 423-893-6767 or toll free 877-262-J103.  Maybe you just want to give online?  Simply click the DONATE NOW button on our home page!  God Bless You for your gift!

]]> Have You Forgotten? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/09/have-you-forgotten It's the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York City. 9/11. Many of us remember exactly where we were that day, when we first learned the awful news.  But time has a way of making things fade and become less "real".  Every year around September 11th, I find myself reflecting on the events of that day and how they forever changed the country I love.  The media seems to be buzzing all around this year, with a proposed Mosque near Ground Zero, a pastor in Florida planning to burn the Quran, and a President who has elected for the second year in a row not attend the memorial service at Ground Zero.  Lot's of 9/11 news.  And I was okay til I heard the most outrageous comment on one of the news channels this week.  A so called "political analyst" said, and I quote: "There comes a time when we just have to move on, and get over it."  I have to tell you this really ticked me off!  On September 11th our neighbors lives were changed forever. Husbands lost wives, wives lost husbands, children lost parents and parents lost children  We must never "move on and get over it". We should remember those lives that were slaughtered that day and continue to pray for the families that were affected. And furthermore, we should pray for our nation.  It's been forever changed by these events too. Let's never forget. And let's pray, now more than ever.

]]> God REALLY Loves Us! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/09/god-really-loves-us The Bible says in 1 John 3:1, "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called the children of God!"
Think about that for a minute.  The children of God.  Pretty awesome huh?  You know, it wasn't always exactly that way. In many places in scripture we are referred to as the servants or slaves of God. Why? Because of our fallen nature, our sin-filled lives. Then there are my two favorite words in the English language:  BUT JESUS......   We were slaves BUT JESUS set us free when he died on the cross for our sins, and NOW we are the CHILDREN OF GOD!  Celebrate that today! No matter what kind of day you are having! Celebrate your status as a Child of God!

]]> Strip it all away! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/08/strip-it-all-away Sometimes I think we get so caught up in our chase for "stuff" that we forget about what blessings are all around us.  If you've ever been through a financial crunch, or belt-tightening (that's all of us in 2009 right?) then you can learn very quickly what really matters in your life.  Are you a "stuff" chaser?  Stop!  Many lives have been wasted chasing "stuff".  Look around you.  If you've got a family that loves you, a place to live, food to eat and transportation...you're more blessed than most of the world!  I just want to encourage you to strip it all away.  Stop the chase long enough to look around and count your blessings.  I bet you'll be surprised what you'll find!

]]> Vote this Thursday! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/08/vote-this-thursday I'll be glad when the election is over. Mostly because I spend time with various media and feel I'm covered in mud as a result of all the political ads. But as tired as I get of all that....I know the most important part of this process is that we GET OUT AND VOTE.  As Christians we should feel DOUBLY COMPELLED to get involved and make a difference.  It's hard to complain if you weren't involved in the process.  And remember, rock stars and movie idols know how to "rock the vote" and get their voters out...so Christians...go vote the way Jesus would have you vote. At least it balances things out!

]]> The Root Not The Fruit Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/07/the-root-not-the-fruit I'm reading an interesting book about developing great habits that lead to success in life. The author makes a great point. Concentrate on the ROOT not the FRUIT.  He says, if we make sure the fundamentals are sound...the fruit will come.  It made me think. The Bible says we will know them by their fruit and that verse is often quoted, but check this out....a tree with a lousy root system doesn't bear fruit.  So....how's your root system?  Think about it!

]]> One life can touch so many! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/06/one-life-can-touch-so-many I recently attended the funeral of a long-time Christian radio vet, Larry Adcock. He helped get a new Christian radio station off the ground back in 1968 when few existed, and he died at the age of 76, still working actively at the station.  It was truly his life's work. BUT, that's not what this is about.  At his funeral I heard one of the most amazing testimonies that I just wanted to share it with you.  A middle-age minister spoke during the service and this is his story:
"Larry and I hung around together when we were heathens. We did all the usual heathen stuff together and were really good friends. Then one day Larry "got saved".  All I knew was he had become a religious nut and I didn't want to hang out with him anymore.  I proceeded to continue down the old path until the day came that I'd just about destroyed everything around me. I was lost and without hope. But through all the years, Larry never lost touch with me.  He never gave up on me.  Although I didn't understand this whole "Christian" thing...I always knew that Larry cared about me.  So, one day, at my lowest point, I called the one person I knew cared.  Larry met with me immediately and I knelt in his office and received Jesus that day! I went home and shared the Good News with my wife and she got saved. My entire family trusted Christ."  Now....you ready for the punchline? He has been pastoring a church for the last twenty years. His son now is also a pastor.  Together they've reached countless lives for Christ.  And it all started with the one guy that refused to give up.  So the moral of the story? Think about that person you are ready to give up on. They are so far from the Lord. They seem to have no conscience. They look hopeless. DON'T GIVE UP! Keep that relationship alive and look for those God-given opportunities to share Christ with them.  You never know what exponential impact your diligence may have!

]]> Dana Key of DeGarmo & Key passes away Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/06/dana-key-of-degarmo--key-passes-away Dana Key met Jesus face to face Sunday night, June 6, 2010. He will be missed by countless friends, family and fans.
One of the pioneer artists of Contemporary Christian Music....the duo known as DeGarmo and Key consisted of Eddie DeGarmo and Dana Key.  Eddie and Dana met in first grade and were lifelong friends. They played at a festival just a week ago.  Dana died suddenly from a dislodged blood clot this past Sunday night at the age of 56.

One of my favorite songs from them is a little known tune that's less than two minutes long.  I dedicate this song to Dana from all those who loved him as a follower of Jesus, a minister, a musician and a friend. Here it is:

Seasons change, days go by, people come and peole go. Though our paths lead us apart, they will meet one day I know.  For I owe you so much, dear friend, for all those treasured times.  For you've made me a richer man, having had you in my life.

Dana Key 1954-2010.

Listen this Sunday afternoon from 4 to 7pm to the Weekend Rewind for a tribute to DeGarmo and Key. Also, check out the Weekend Rewind page for more information.

]]> Oil and Water Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/05/oil-and-water Oil and Water don't mix. That's what they say.  One thing is sure, the southeast has had its share of both Oil and Water. With the massive oil spill in the gulf and the unprecedented flooding in Nashville it seems the entire southeastern US is in clean-up mode.  We must continue to pray daily for those whose lives have been changed forever by these events.  Which brings me to another point....is there some clean-up in your life that needs to be underway? We all have our own floods and oil spills. The flood of sin and the nasty murky water it leaves behind.  But God has made a promise to us all that through His Son, Jesus Christ, we can be cleansed from all unrighteousness.  That means the nasty flood waters and oil spills in our life that are a result of our disobedience can be washed whiter than snow!  Here's what God has promised us:
NIV: 18“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.
So keep praying for Nashville and the gulf coast, but think about what other clean-up needs to be done. Today.

]]> Pray for Nashville! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/05/pray-for-nashville The news reports are startling. It's amazing how much water can collect in one place at one time! Beautiful neighborhoods in Nashville are underwater. Seems half of downtown is too!  In the last 24 hours I've spoken to two different friends who both said, "We are busy moving our stuff to higher ground and preparing to evacuate".  Wow!  We saw a bit of this early in the year in the East Ridge area, but the photos and videos from Nashville are absolutely amazing. Let's all say a prayer for them today.  God will get them through this storm! And remember, whatever storm is in your life, God will get you through that too!

]]> Just throw it away and buy a new one Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/04/just-throw-it-away-and-buy-a-new-one Is it just me, or is this becoming the answer to every question?  Wow! Everything is disposable these days.  My parents had the same television for 20 years. It was black and white and you had to get up to change the channel. And when I got married, they gave it to me and we used it for a little while til we could save the cash to go buy a new one.  We gave it to somebody and if I had to guess, it is still working today.  Now they tell me my LCD flat screen will burn out in 2 or 3 years and I can just throw it away and go buy a new one? And they're only $1500 bucks? Excuse me? 
Either way, disposable stuff is one thing but disposable people is another.  Think about the folks in your cirlce of influence. Is there someone that may have made some poor decisions in their life that have subsequently been "thrown away" by their family or worse...their church?  If you know one of these "disposable" people...reach out to them today and let them know that God thinks they're still worth something!

]]> Changing Neighborhoods Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/04/changing-neighborhoods The Big Daddy Weave concert last night was awesome! They played one of my favorite songs, called Changing Neighborhoods and God spoke to my heart in a special way during that song. It got me thinking and I wanted to share with you these thoughts about neighborhoods:
There are 3 different kinds of neighborhoods and most of us live in one of them.  The first neighborhood is full of lost people. They need to accept the work that Jesus did on the cross for them, dying to pay for their sins and rising to be their Lord for all eternity. If you've not given your life to Jesus and accepted that most awesome gift of salvation yet, do it today, and I"ll say "Welcome to the Neighborhood!" There is a second neighborhood. It's full of Christians who have strayed far away from the God they love.  A few wrong turns and suddenly you find yourself in a really "bad" neighborhood, hanging out with the wrong crowd and daily getting farther and farther away.  If you're hanging out on the wrong side of the tracks...it's time to change neighborhoods. Listening to J103 is a great start, but you need a church and some Christian friends.  Trust me, that's a lot better neighborhood than the "bad" one.  Finally, there is a third neighborhood. It's full of well meaning Christians who love the Lord, go to church, have Christian friends, listen to Christian radio, etc. etc.  BUT...there is this ONE THING that haunts them and proves to be a barrier in their relationship with Christ.  If they could just give that ONE THING over to the Lord it would change their life.  Are you in that neighborhood?  What's the ONE THING and what's keeping you from surrendering COMPLETELY?  Do it today! and WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD! YOU'RE GONNA LOVE IT HERE!

]]> I hope your favorite color is YELLOW! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/04/i-hope-your-favorite-color-is-yellow I wish for you two things: 1. You love the color YELLOW. 2. You are not highly allergic to pollen!

Wow! I can't believe the pollen counts. Got up this morning and hosed off the car before I drove in to the station.  By lunch it was yellow again! And it's not like we have trees here to park under. Unbelievable!  I can feel the stuffiness setting in already!  How about you?

]]> I Never Played 78 RPM records at a radio station Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/03/i-never-played-78-rpm-records-at-a-radio-station I confess I did play albums and 45's, but NO 78's.  Technology is an amazing thing. To get more of this story, check out the Weekend Rewind page here on the site.  Go back to the top of the page, click the ON AIR tab and you'll find the Weekend Rewind page! 

]]> God Bless You! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/03/god-bless-you Thank you to each and every person who called and gave in our Spring Shareathon! Wow! You put us over the top today! We appreciate you so much. Your gifts make it possible to keep this ministry going! It's all about seeing God change lives through the ministry and music of J103.  We love you and I just wanted to say THANK YOU!

]]> Why give? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/03/why-give First of all, thank you for coming to the phones and showing your support for J103.  Have you ever wondered why we ask for money AND play commercials at the same time?  Here's how that works:  Our salaries and wages are covered each year by our corporate sponsors through the advertising you hear on the station.  Your gifts help keep the lights on, the transmitters humming and the ministry going.  Know that we take the responsibility of what God has given us VERY seriously.  We're here for one reason only, that's to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ! The more God blesses us through you, the more we can reach out around the world.  Thank you so much for your support.  We love you!

]]> You CAN have a dramatic impact on someone else's life! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/03/you-can-have-a-dramatic-impact-on-someone-elses-life In 1983 a young radio guy that was looking for his big break as a rock and roll disc jockey found himself in the studio of a Christian radio station.  Unplanned?  Well, it certainly wasn't MY plan, but it WAS God's!  My Program Director, Bob Crittenden, played a major role in the direction my life was about to take, and he didn't even realize it.  As I struggled to prepare my "demo" for him I became frustrated and called him for help. His question was simple: "Are you trying to do it yourself, or are you asking the Lord to do it THROUGH you?"  When I arrogantly proclaimed that I was trying to do it myself he said "Then that's your problem."  ...and he hung up the phone.  It forced me to face my weaknesses and my total dependence on God.  That night God planted a desire in me to serve Him in Christian radio. It's a flame that's still burning just as bright after all these years. But I owe a big thanks to that program director way back in 1983. He could've given me any of a hundred different answers, but instead he pointed me to God. Just what I needed.  The result? Over 25 years later I'm still doing what God called me to do.  This past week I re-connected with Bob Crittenden and got the chance to share this story with him.  I realized after that, I should've hunted him down long ago to share this with him.  My challenge to you? Two things. Number one, if someone has had a dramatic impact on your life, tell them. Don't wait.  Number two? If you think you can't make a difference for God...just follow His spirit and you may have an impact on someone that you don't even know about!  How cool is that?

]]> Here's to my friend Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/02/heres-to-my-friend I lost a friend this week. His name is Scott Daniels. He died from complications due to pneumonia. He was only 45. Scott will always be remembered as the guy who would go the extra mile for anybody anytime.  We spent some years in the radio business together and I never knew a guy so dedicated to serving others. I've been following a tribute page set up for him on Facebook, and the stories have come from everywhere about his servant nature. He'll be remembered well by many.  How would you be remembered if today was your last day on earth? What would they say about you on your tribute page?  I'm not pointing fingers...I ask myself this question too!  I pray that we  make EVERY day count!

]]> Hope and Change Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/02/hope-and-change Boy! Those words have seen a lot of action in the last year.  President Obama used them as his platform to get elected. Now Sarah Palin is using his words against him.  Whichever side of that fence you fall on....let's look at real  Hope and Change.  The Bible says in  1 Timothy 1:1 (CEV) "From Paul, God our Savior and Christ Jesus commanded me to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, who gives us hope."Mathew Chapter 3 and verse 2 (in the Amplified Bible) says,  "Repent (think differently; change your mind, regretting your sins and changing your conduct), for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."  So there is such a thing as Hope and Change.  It's found in God's Word!  Our Hope is in Jesus and our Change comes from following Him and being more like Him.  Under those circumstances, we can all be for Hope and Change. God's way that is.


]]> External vs. Internal Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/01/external-vs-internal I read an interesting article on sales today and it got me thinking. I love this quote: "You can't necessarily control the external environment, but you can control the internal environment."  The economy is what it is, it's how we react to it that makes the difference. This applies to a lot more than selling advertising. It applies to life.  There's a lot happening in our world that we can do absolutely nothing about...but we can do something about how we react to it!  God has provided us a book of instructions, that shows us how we should behave regardless of what the world does. Here's a verse to take with you today:  Philippians 4:8,9 NLT says: "And now brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right and pure, and lovely, and admirable.  Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.  Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me - everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.? NOW THAT'S AN INTERNAL CHANGE WE CAN ALL MAKE TODAY! What do you think about that?

]]> Joy vs. Heartache, Pain and Disillusionment Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/01/joy-vs-heartache-pain-and-disillusionment It's our choice which path to take. Every day, it's a choice.  I've got a great devotional prayer book I'm reading this year and I've been really blessed by some of the insights in this book.  In particular, the words in a prayer last week made quite an impact on me.  It gives us a very clear perspective on choices.  Johnny Hunt of Woodstock Georgia writes this prayer: "Remind me of the joy that has always been mine when I have chosen to follow You.  Let me never forget the heartache, pain and disillusionment that come from my disobedience."  Can it be said any better than that?  It's the choices we make daily to walk in God's path or in our own.  What do you want today? Joy, or Heartache, pain and Disillusionment?  Seems to be a pretty clear choice!  Psalm 119:35 says, "Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it."  God knows that we will find joy, delight and peace when we walk in His will.  Make the right choice today!

]]> The Wisdom of a Cat Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/01/the-wisdom-of-a-cat We just finished a two day retreat for our management team. No, not a holiday, rather it was two days of planning for 2010.  And I learned a great life-lesson from a cat while we were there at Black Bear Cove.  You see, when they showed up the first day to break ground at Black Bear, this little black and white kitten came out of the woods to greet them.  He spent the whole first day riding on the bulldozer with them as they worked the land.  He's been there ever since.  So what lesson is there in a cat that takes up residence at a mountain lodge?  Check this out:  He knew somebody was doing something special and he got on board. Once he figured out they were building something he did what any cat would do and that's establish the fact that this would be his new home.  Long before the building was finished, he had already staked his claim.  See, I think the cat is pretty smart.  He saw the wonderful thing they were doing FOR HIM and he accepted the offer.  He didn't even debate whether or not it was a good deal. His faithfulness to come back every day resulted in a permanent home and a famliy that loves and cares for him.  The Bible says Jesus stands at the door of our heart and knocks.  He's offering a better deal than a beautiful building (although a mansion is included!)  He's offering eternal life. Will you be as smart as the Black Bear Cove cat?  Accept what Jesus is offering without question, reservation or hesitation?  And here's another lesson.  The cat knows to come to the door, meow, and he'll get in and get lots of attention.  He has faith that when he comes to the door, it will open and he'll get to come inside.   He can't see what is on the other side of that door, but he has the faith it will open to him.  Do we have the faith that God will keep His promises to us?  Can we believe even when we can't see?
You can learn a lot from a cat!

]]> All snow is not created equally Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/01/all-snow-is-not-created-equally Snow days are interesting days. It depends on what part of the country you live in, how you react to the threat of snow.  As a year and a half resident of Chattanooga it is apparent to me we react to the "possibility" of snow by immediately closing half the schools. The other half close as the first few flakes start to fall.  But I'm not making fun, I promise. I'm from Birmingham and trust me, we react exactly the same way down there!  However, I spent some time in Louisville and have friends further north. Up there, life goes on!
So, will it snow a little or a lot?  Who knows!  But enjoy your snow day tomorrow and don't forget to buy bread, eggs and milk.
And by the way, does anyone really make a meal out of bread, eggs and milk? Don't you need some other stuff too?

]]> 2010 here we go! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2010/01/2010-here-we-go It's a new year filled with new hope!  2009 was a year many would like to forget, but we're all looking to 2010 to be a better one.  How can you help insure that it is? Operate every day with the utmost integrity. So, what is integrity exactly?  The Bible says in Psalm 119:1 "Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord!"  The Bible doesn't call us to be sinless, but rather blameless.   Integrity is decribed as the opposite of duplicity and hypocrisy.  Be who you are in 2010 and serve the Lord with all your heart.  Treat others as God has instructed you to. 2010 will be a wonderful and blessed year!  I've often said that God has the perfect plan....if we just had the good sense to follow it! It's when we make our own plans that we get into trouble. I pray that every step you take this year will be one directed by the Lord! Be blessed in 2010!

]]> 2009 - What can you say about a year like this? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/12/2009--what-can-you-say-about-a-year-like-this 2009 has been a year to remember, or maybe to forget.  As I'm thinking about the year that is coming to an end, I reflect on it with mixed emotions. The year was very tough for a lot of people. Home foreclosures, unemployment, layoffs, cutbacks, stock market troubles, etc etc etc.   But the Bible says in 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.
It is THAT HOPE we look to for 2010! We're reminded in Matthew 19:26 "With men this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible."  If our hope is in this world, our nations leaders, our jobs....we're sure to be disappointed. But if we trust in the one that IS Hope....then we have a future to look forward to. At a time of year where many reflect on the past year and wonder/worry about the future, think on these things!

And just think about the miracles we've seen at J103. In August the stations future was quite uncertain. But God used His people to turn this ministry around in a truly miraculous way.  Thanks again to those of you who played a part in that miracle! Man would have said our situation was impossible...BUT GOD said different!

Finally, I'll leave you with another verse to carry you into 2010
I Corinthians 16:13 "Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong!"

Happy New Year from J103. We love you!

]]> WE are the reason Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/12/we-are-the-reason I love the classic song from David Meece titled "We Are The Reason" because it so clearly explains why God chose to send his only Son to earth.  In order to bridge the impossible divide between us and God, caused by our sin, God sent to us the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus!  This year as Hollywood seems determined to combine all December events as "the holidays" and insists on giving all religious holidays equal time...let us not forget that WE are the reason Jesus had to come to earth on that Christmas so long ago.  While this has been a tough year for all of us, we certainly have plenty to be thankful for. Most importantly, we should be thankful that we serve a God that loves us that much!  Merry Christmas!

]]> JOY! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/12/joy I was thinking today just how much joy is in this building on a daily basis!  It's an awesome thing to be a part of the ministry of J103. And you can tell it by the smiles and laughter that fill the hallways.  We've found a true joy in trusting Jesus for our every need here. Especially this year.  When times have been tough, God has been faithful.  As I write this I struggle to find the words to explain what that life of joy is really like. But I see it in the faces and hear it in the voices of our staff. We're all celebrating the fact that we serve a great God!  As you call today and help support our ministry, or you call and share your testimony, or maybe you just sit back and listen....think about that joy! My prayer is that you will experience the same joy in your life.  And remember...it has nothing to do with how much money you have in the bank or how successful you are...it's about your position in Christ. Celebrate that with us today and experience His Joy!

]]> Your Top Ten Christmas Gifts of 2009 Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/11/your-top-ten-christmas-gifts-of-2009 Thanks for your input in helping me create this shopping list. Here's the Top Ten Christmas Gifts of 2009:

1) Apple Ipod Touch (We're giving these away on J103!)
2) Flat Screen HDTV (Got to have one of these!)
3) Flip Ultra HD Camcorder (Small but great quality)
4) PSP go (portable gaming)
5) Nintendo Wii console (last years #1)
6) Caster Board (2 wheeled self propelled skateboard)
7) Hannah Montanna Toys (Billy Ray is so proud)
8) Robot Dog (I have no idea what this is)
9) The Beatles Rock Band (lots of hype about this)
10) DJ Hero (very creative new music video game)

So there you have it! Agree? Disagree?

Happy Shopping!

]]> What do you want for Christmas? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/11/what-do-you-want-for-christmas I am compiling a list of the TOP TEN CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR 2009, for use on the air. I need your help.  Just reply to this blog and tell me what you want for Christmas. I'll tabulate the results and come up with the top ten!  Thanks for the help!

]]> This is it! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/11/this-is-it This is the last time I will mention this....because today is the last day of the campaign.  Yep, I'm talking about the Bible League. As you know, we've been asking for your help to send Bibles to new Christians in Southeast Asia who do not have a copy of God's Word.  Thanks to your generosity we're sending over 1300 Bibles.  We have a goal of 1,725 and would love to close in on that today. If you've thought about it, but just haven't made the call...today is the day!  1-800-YES-WORD.  $40 sends 10 Bibles. $200 sends 50 Bibles.  Two gifts of $800 each meets our goal!  Help us today...and know that you are forever impacting lives for Christ!  Thanks!

]]> Friday is the last day... Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/11/friday-is-the-last-day Friday is the last day for you to donate Bibles in our Bible League campaign. We're filling empty hands with God's Word in Southeast Asia. Over 1300 Bibles are on their way, thanks to you....but we need to send 400 more to reach our goal. Can you help? Call 1-800-YES-WORD. Our campaign ENDS THIS FRIDAY!

]]> Just a few more days... Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/11/just-a-few-more-days There are just a few more days left in our Bible League campaign. We are sending Bibles to new Christians in Southeast Asia who do not have a copy of God's Word.  $40 sends 10 Bibles.  Our goal is to send 1,725 Bibles and we've almost made it to the 1,000 mark.  That means we've still got a lot of work to do in these last days.  Call 1-800-YES-WORD today if you haven't participated already.  Just think of how awesome this opportunity is.....you can personally be responsible for putting a copy of God's Word in the hands of a brand new Christian.  Don't delay because our campaign is coming to a close.  $40 sends 10 Bibles.  $200 sends 50 Bibles.  Call 1-800-YES-WORD today!  God Bless You!

]]> Fill Their Empty Hands with God's Word Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/10/fill-their-empty-hands-with-gods-word We are a fourth of the way to our goal in our Bible League campaign. We're filling the empty hands of new Christians in Southeast Asia with their very own copy of God's Word in their language. They are hungry for the word and it's up to us to get it to them.  Thank you for getting us a fourth of the way there....but we really need your help!  This campaign ends November 8th!  If you've been thinking about it, but haven't made the call...please do. 1-800-YES-WORD.  $40 sends 10 Bibles.  1-800-YES-WORD. Will you help today?

]]> How many Bibles do you have? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/10/how-many-bibles-do-you-have How many Bibles do you have in your house. Go ahead. Count them. I can wait.   Okay, now, let me ask you a question.  Is it worth $4 to put a Bible in the hands of a new believer who doesn't have a single copy of the Word of God?  Right now we are in the middle of a campaign with the Bible League to send 1,725 Bibles to Southeast Asia.  These are going to new Christians. Their very own copy of God's Word, in their language. They are hungry for it. They'll read it, if they can just get a copy.  Forty dollars sends ten Bibles. Call 1-800-YES-WORD.  If we all sent the same number of Bibles to Southeast Asia that we have in our own homes....we'd meet the goal in a day!  Think about it, and call 1-800-YES WORD!  Thank you for your help!

]]> What did you think about the Casting Crowns concert? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/10/wow WOW! That's all I can say about the Casting Crowns concert Saturday night.  What an awesome night of praise and worship and ministry. The guys in Casting Crowns are awesome and they are clearly on the stage for the right reasons. I trust if you were there you were blessed!  I'd love to know what you thought of the concert too! You can post your responses here!

]]> WHAT A BUSY WEEKEND! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/10/what-a-busy-weekend It started out looking like a laid back weekend, but then all these great opportunities came along and now it's a wide open do it all weekend. But hey, it's going to be awesome!  We're going to Abba's House tonight to see the Supernatural Illusionist show with Ken Hartley. I hear it is amazing (and it's free). Then tomorrow night is the big one! The Casting Crowns concert at UTC McKenzie Arena at 7pm.  Somehow we've got a trip to the circus and a birthday party to fit in there as well.  And our best friends in the world may be coming to town to visit.  Hmmm. I'll let you know how it all turns out. Hope you have a great weekend too!

]]> God is Good, All the Time! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/10/god-is-good-all-the-time Wow! I can't say enough about last week's outpouring of love that you all showered on us here at J103 during our Fall Friend Raiser. Although we've still got a lot of work ahead, God spoke to us clearly, through you, that He isn't done with the ministry of J103 just yet. We are excited about the days ahead as we strive to serve Him everyday. Thank you for your prayers and support. It means more than words can express!

]]> Until The Whole World Hears Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/until-the-whole-world-hears As you know, this has been an incredibly tough year for the ministry of J103. As we've cut expenses and struggled to stay on the air...we've seen and heard story after story of lives changed through this ministry.  God is still working in a mighty way and for that we are so thankful.  Yesterday as I listened to Brett, I heard a new Casting Crowns song for the first time and was awestruck by the lyrics of the song:  "Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night", "Until the whole world hears, Lord we are calling out", "Lifting up Your name for all to hear the sound", "Like voices in the wilderness we're crying out", "we'll sing UNTIL THE WHOLE WORLD HEARS!"  What can I add to that? It's exactly why we keep on keepin' on here at J103. God has called us to. And we can't stop reaching out and sharing His love, Until The Whole World Hears!  Thank you for your support of God's J103!

]]> You guys are awesome! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/you-guys-are-awesome Just a quick thank you to all the listeners who have called this morning to partner with us in suppport of what God is doing with His ministry here at J103. We love you all and thank you very much.  I'll "see you" on the radio this afternoon at 4!

]]> You can't ingore the alarm! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/you-cant-ingore-the-alarm It's the call you DO NOT want to get.  2:30 in the morning, this wide awake voice is on the other end of your phone, talking just a little bit too loud.  It seems the Fire Alarm has gone off at the radio station...two things happen immediately...one, you start to think about what could be on fire inside the radio station and two, you start praying it's a false alarm.  To be totally truthful...the first call was at 11 last night and Justin Wade, our Music Director heeded the call. All I had to do was lay in bed and wait on him to call and tell me what was up.  It was a false alarm. A faulty detector.  We sighed relief, said hallelujah and went back to sleep.  It was the second call at 2:30 that got me out of bed. It was my turn to trek to the station and meet the East Ridge Fire Department.  Thankfully, another false alarm.  But it made me think....How many times does God sound an alarm for us and we ignore it?  The temptation to turn off the phone, pretend I didn't get the call and go back to sleep was pretty strong at 2:30. But how often do we do God that way?  When we don't like the alarm, do we just turn it off?  The Holy Spirit sounds those alarms for our own protection.  Next time it happens to you....don't ignore the alarm!

And a quick PS:  Thanks to the awesome East Ridge Fire and Police. I could see the exhaustion in their faces last night. They've been working themselves to death since the flooding earlier in the week. I appreciate them coming out to check on us. Twice. Even if it was a false alarm!

]]> Slow down and live! Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/slow-down-and-live A little over 8 years ago, my wife (very pregnant) and I were traveling down I-65 in our hometown of Birmingham. We were going about 50 Miles Per Hour in the rain,minding our own business and not doing anything crazy. I remember driving past a truck which was down in the median. It had obviously slid off the road in the rain.  I made a comment about how we should be careful. Next thing I know, the back end of our car turned completely loose and we were ice skating on the interstate! We made a few circles in the middle of the interstate before sliding backwards off the road.  Miraculously we didn't hit any other cars and Shelly or (the as yet unborn, unnamed Luke) were not injured.  But the car was totaled.  So now, if you see me driving in the rain, I'm usually the guy in the slow lane that's ticking everybody off.  I learned a valuable lesson about how little control you have when driving on top of water.  So...when it rains like it has this week....don't try to set land speed records on the interstate. It's just not worth it!

PS: An emergency vehicle just went by the radio station with a boat behind it! (At least it didn't LOOK like the Ark)

]]> Top Ten Ugliest Cars of All Time Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/top-ten-ugliest-cars-of-all-time I had fun with this list on a recent edition of The Weekend Rewind (Sundays 4-7pm on J103).  It's a list that brings back lots of memories. Unfortunately some of those memories are of expensive auto repairs, poor resale value, embarrasing moments in front of friends, etc.  See if one of these ever sat in your driveway!  Ready?...
10. AMC Pacer - even an alien wouldn't be caught in this "spaceship"
9. Yugo - also often known as the Nogo.
8. Ford Pinto - an explosive entry
7. Pontiac Aztek - seriously, what WERE they thinking?
6. Chevrolet Vega - even the rust rusted on these babys
5. AMC Gremlin- where's the other half of the car?
4. Chevrolet Corvair - some people will fight you for one of these
3. AMC Matador- another reason AMC is out of business
2. Ford Edsel - this one surprised me, it's a bit of a collector's item
1. Chevrolet Chevette - I actually saw one of these on the road recently!
So there you are.  If you owned 3 or more of these cars, maybe you should get someone else to car shop for you?

]]> Is the website awesome, or what? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/09/is-the-website-awesome-or-what I really can't thank the guys at Level 2 Design enough for putting together this website for us.  As you can tell, we are all very excited about it!  We've got a few more things up our sleeve, so keep checking back for more surprises...but already, there's a bunch of great stuff on the site.

We want to be a real resource for you and hope you find lots of great tools on the site.  Plus, look around! And have some fun with it!

Thanks for listening to J103! We appreciate you!

]]> So, what is the Weekend Rewind on J103? Steve Green http://www.j103.com/blog/steve-green/2009/08/so-what-is-the-weekend-rewind-on-j103 I've been asked a few dozen times what sparked the idea for The Weekend Rewind (Sundays 4-7pm on J103). It's simple really. I love Contemporary Christian Music. God called me into the ministry of Christian radio in the early 80's.  Contemporary Christian Music was something I knew absolutely nothing about. I fell in love with it the moment I was exposed to it.  I found the messages to be real and the songs hit home and applied directly to my life.  I was hooked. When I arrived at J103 a year ago, I had a strong desire to bring back some of the music that is the foundation of what we play on the radio today.  In the early to mid- 70's some very brave musicians followed their hearts and a call from God. They forever changed the sound of Christian music.  The grandfather of Contemporary Christian Music, Larry Norman was radical and strange to some. His long blonde hair and his loud rock and roll sound didn't "fit" in many Christian circles, but wonderful things happened when he sang. Young people were exposed to the Gospel for the first time in a way they could understand and relate to. Many more artists would follow him and the music has continued to evolve to this date.  But the Casting Crowns, Francesca Battistelli's and Brandon Heath's of today likely wouldn't exist if it weren't for Amy Grant, Petra, Larry Norman, Mylon Lefevre and Broken Heart, Randy Stonehill and so many others.


As the music progressed and times changed, many of these artists were abandoned by Christian radio.  I believe we owe them a special place of honor for the trail they cut for the rest of us!  That's what the Weekend Rewind is.  It's a place of honor for dozens of great artists and hundreds of great songs that forged the way for today's Christian music.  Many of these songs are interwoven in the lives of some of you (and me). I pray as you listen to the Rewind that you will be touched again by songs that touched and changed you years ago.  If you're new to Contemporary Christian Music....give the Weekend Rewind a listen. You might be surprised by what you hear! And visit my blog again soon. I'll share some stories and experiences from 25 years of Christian radio and great music...right here! 

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