“GO” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you." Mark 10:53

 Emergency

  A few weeks before our wedding, Kris and I were relaxing and watching television. It was towards the end of the night, and we were getting ready for bed. As I sat up to adjust to the other side of the couch, I felt a pain in my chest -- a sharp, stabbing pain,  and I feared that I couldn’t breathe deeply because it felt something would tear. I sat there for a little while holding my chest and trying to take short breaths. Kris was concerned and convinced to take me to the emergency room at that moment. I hate hospitals, but I did agree it’s better to be safe than sorry. We loaded into the car once I felt I was able to get up and we we were off...

We didn’t have to wait long until I was in the room with the doctor explaining my pain and feelings of what had occurred. The doctor wanted to take a blood sample, X-ray and an EKG. I was terrified about the blood being drawn, and the doctor laughed at me considering I have two full sleeves and a chest piece. I went and got the x-ray and the blood drawn, then sat there with Kris and waited thirty minutes before I was told how my blood work came out. The doctor feared a blood clot in my lungs, and also wanted to make sure my heart was healthy. That thirty minute wait seemed like days; I feared that I had some major heart issues. I couldn’t remember the last time in my life that I had even been to a doctor. And, most people don’t know this but when you tour in a band for six years, you don’t usually get the healthiest meals. The first two years of touring was full of McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, you name it, we ate it...

In these circumstances, naturally I got to thinking to myself about how valuable life is. Here I am, in an emergency room with my future wife, thinking of all the things I have done to hurt my body, all of the things I had the choice of doing or not doing to keep my body in the condition it was in. I sat quietly and thought to myself, “I’m not in here because of someone else. I wasn’t here because of a car accident or something.” I thought of the smoking, drinking, all the fast food, the lack of exercise, the lack of a healthy lifestyle, all of these things that had accumulated over the years. Why? I decided to make the choice to feed my body those things. Why? Because of my flesh craving those things and not thinking of my body as a temple, or the life that God gave me. I didn’t think of what was most important, but I had craved the short-term satisfaction during all those years, and I made the decision. I had no one else to blame for this but myself, and to think that maybe my life could change in a huge way right now at this point...all of those things led to this one moment...

  It turns out that I have a healthy heart with a small, somewhat “normal” abnormality, the pain was within the wall of my chest, and I should stay away from caffeine. Phew! The moral of the story is...we have so many chances to do the right thing or to say no to things we know we enjoy but know could damage us. And not just our bodies, but our minds and our spirits too. All the little decisions we make in life add up, and they could bring destruction or success, joy or sadness in the end. It’s so important that we understand that the little things do count in all that we do. If we are doing all these little things to build up to our dreams coming true, they do and will pay off. However, the addictions you have in your life could very well end it sooner than later.

Think of everything you do in your life: the little things, and think of how they effect you and the people around you. I mean, what if I had a huge problem with my heart, and needed surgery, or couldn’t tour any longer, or left my wife and friends behind? Why? Because of the poor decisions I made in my life. Thank the Lord that He has given me health, and despite the fact that I have abused my body so much in the past years, that I can stand here today and write this. God gave us the gift of choice...let’s just try to make the right choices so that life, which is a blessing, turns not into a curse. This is beyond physical health, but your words, how you effect others, and what you put your energy towards daily.

Are you feeding yourself: mind, body, and spirit, fruit that is good? Or are you consuming bad fruit that will make you sick? feeding yourself and others bad fruit that will make you sick? When we are struggling, we absolutely have to feed ourselves good fruit and remember what we struggled through. Then we can learn from our past and gain wisdom through experiences to help others change for the better. Love yourself so that you may love others. Start in the little things in life.

Matt and I hit the YMCA in the morning .. we've been pretty lucky with no YMCA membership, they have given us days where they don't charge us to use their gym which is great! This YMCA was a little bit smaller than the norm but did the job! The great thing about it is some how we've been finding YMCA"s and other great gyms less than a mile down from the venue... so it's been really convenient this tour. 

After the gym, Kris and I walked around the town to see what Tuscon was all about.. we were excited to know their was a farmers market down the street... don't see many of those and Kris is a health kinda gal.. We didn't know the area but  we were starving and needed something to fill us... we walked into a small cigar shop and asked what was around... guess what we found? only the best sub shop EVER! 

Thats right... JIMMY JOHNS!!! Yeah BUDDY! 

Tuscon was a great day because our good friends in ItheBreather joined up on the tour. Morgan Wright is their drummer and I just have to say I love that dude.. Great guy, awesome drummer and we share the same beliefs.. This dude KILLS the drums!! 

We also decided to have a bible study on our bus! Me, Matt, Adam Grey, and Morgan Wright got to our back lounge and talked about some of the scripture in Psalms. and proverbs.. We didn't really have anything put together seeing as it was the first day with Morgan but it was great to read some psalms and really open up to one another in prayer. It's really amazing how similar we all are and how Christ shows us His love through others.. we also talked about how having accountability is really crucial on the road. We are wanting to have these daily.

After that we rocked the show! The only gripe I had was how far away the stage was from the crowd... the energy is really hard to feel when they are so far away. I was a little bummed out when we opened the set and the first scream I took... i realized I couldn't hear... the mic had gone out and was not picking up my voice.. however seeing the crowd singing the part as I was in frustration... haha.. they did a pretty good job! 

Thanks Tuscon, AZ!!! 

Mattie Montgomery explains how he became the singer of the band For Today, and how he has come from Soccer player to Jesus follower. He tells us how his goal isn't to be a rockstar, but to walk perfectly align in God's path for his life. 

I've been having issues with my right shin because I usually always put my weight on it.. so today I put some icey hot on it around 12pm .. tried my best to stretch it out however tonight when we were on stage... my leg felt a crazy burn the entire set. It wasn't pleasant trying to scream while my leg felt like it was on fire! haha 

After the show Matt and I hung out with kids at the Heart Support merch table... signing autographs, taking pictures and meeting up with some of you guys! Ben Sledge a man who has done a guest blog on Heart Support, his blog called "masculinity" was there. A great guest blog, Ben and I discussed him doing some more blogs and being more involved in the community! His wife will also be doing a blog for women for Heart Support. I feel it's very important to have women posting guest blogs as well as their are women on Heart Support which see, think, and feel a lot different then us men

. 

Quite a few people thanked me for standing up for Christ on stage and saying they have a spiritual connection during our shows... it not only brings me a better understanding that God is working through ABR but also that they see Christ and not me on stage. It's truly a blessing to hear this. Austin...  i ate pizza twice today... pizza hut AND CiCi's ... was really unhealthy, however meeting you guys... was the best part of my night. Thanks for supporting ABR and the HEART. God Bless you guys! I want more people to talk to at the merch table... I want more real stories, I want more prayers, and I want a stronger connection with you all. 

This passage speaks about Jesus walking on water, while Peter and the other disciples were on a boat….They cried out that Jesus was a ghost but then realized it was Christ. Peter answered him “lord is it  you, command me to come to you on the water”. He said “Come” so Peter got out of the boat and went to Christ..

But when Peter saw the wind coming towards him he became afraid! He cried out to Jesus saying “Lord, save me” Jesus took out his hand and grabbed Peter saying “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”.

I read this passage and prayed on it and I feel for myself that I look at Peter.. a man who doubted Jesus.. who said to Christ I won’t go out and walk on the water until you tell me to. So here is Jesus out on water, and Peter in a boat, a man made boat in the water. Peter is obedient to Jesus giving him the command to come to Him. So Peter is obedient and goes to Jesus, then Peter notices WIND coming towards him, and he gets scared. So he asks Jesus to save him… I look at this and see that WE as followers of Christ NEED to be obedient to Jesus' command for us to walk on water with Him.. and when the wind comes and we get scared not to have little doubt in Jesus. As Jesus saved Peter from the wind when they were on the water, so Jesus will save YOU when you are walking on the water and the wind is coming.

There are tons of times where we are obedient to Christ telling us to do something.. and once the wind (problems) start to occur we get frightened or scared and begin to doubt Christ. I’ll be honest… we have to stay strong in our faith in Christ.

We also know that in doubting God we are prolonging the plans and path He has for our lives. 
The wind in our lives is nothing compared to Jesus' love and strength.  

Me and Tod Bain with our teeth out! 

After getting tattooed for 4 hours we had a bible study on the bus. With Matt, Adam Grey, Tod and his family and some of Matt's friends... We talked  about how God can show Himself to us through various ways, not just from hearing His voice, but using people, places, ideas, thoughts, signs, sounds, etc to reveal Himself in our lives! It was really great to hear testimonies from everyone telling their stories of meeting God and seeing Him work in their lives. Thanks to all who were a part of our bible study! 

Matt and Adam studying scripture in bible study. 

The show at House of Blues was great! Great fans, great security and staff there. It was a smooth ride, however my throat was feeling a little sore and after being tattooed for 4 hours towards the end of the set I was feeling a little hurt. haha So today i'm going to relax my voice and rest.. my arm is extremely swollen.. oh yea.. i should show you guys the finished product. Check it !!! 

After the mall we caught a cab to the gym down the street. I'll tell you that the gym has kept my moral up on this tour. Gotta workout! haha 

We also got a new t shirt design on tour! Really appreciate our friend Ashley designing our merch for us! For the Good is her company with her husband Shawn. Great people! Thanks guys! 

We played a huge building out in the middle of nowhere and sold it out at 11oo peole. It was one of the hotter shows we've played on this tour. Great kids and after the show we all hung out at the Heart Support table. I ended up praying over a guy who has a particular health issue.. I believe in prayer and know that the Lord hears them. I feel honored to even have some of you coming up asking me to pray for you. Hung out with my buddy Jakob who I met at the Mars Hill conference in Seattle. He is an amazing kid and I really enjoyed hearing about how you've been overcoming some of your struggles bro. God is good and when we honor Him, He honors us. Keep giving those issues to Him brother and He will restore you and rebuild you.

P.S. Elton I prayed for you after the show my man. 

God is good! 

Today I'm getting tattooed by my buddy Tod Bain in Dallas! 

I worked a lot on Heart Support and connecting with family and friends on the phone. It was a much needed day off, but today was really packed!

I woke up and went to the gym with Dustin, Matt and Brandon and Dustin and I worked out together. That guy is all about lifting and pushing the limits with his weight lifting. I learned quite a lot from him and am excited to workout with him again! 

After that Matt and I went to a Houston Rockets game! They were playing Milwaukee Bucks... I've never been to an NBA game before so it was a really cool experience! Matt and I cheered for the Rockets, however I don' t think they won... 

After rocking the stage at the House of Blues, I went to the merch area and hung out with the kids. One kid asked me to pray for his band because tomorrow they are recording songs in the studio.

Another kid wrote me a letter.. The letter came from a kid named Matt Rochard... 

I can't get into the details of the letter but it was very heart felt and I'd love to talk more with you Matt. You aren't just some normal kid.. their is no such thing, and I respect you writing me a letter. I like that. I will be emailing you. 

I also met a father with his son and his friend who prayed over me tonight for being a follower of Christ and praying that I stay strong with the Lord.. as he was praying over me... i really realized how important prayer is and that because of so many people praying for me for certain things I believe it has truly benefited my life in guidance and understanding AND in speaking things over my life through Christ.. Pretty amazing.. Never thought I'd have church and play a show in and at the same place. 

I spent an hour and 20 minutes at the merch table tonight with kids.. I was exhausted from playing 15 songs... but it was worth every minute because of the way these kids have influenced me and how i've been able to have God use me to inspire them... it's a relationship that is worth so much in my eyes.

Thanks fans, friends, and family... God Bless. 

Jeremy McKinnon is the singer for A Day To Remember, he speaks with Jake Luhrs about being a touring musician and what he had to do to get to where he is today. That we need to focus on our goals to make our dreams become a reality. We can all live out our dreams. Very inspiring! 

When people speak of addiction, I tend to automatically think of a substance. I’ve never been a drinker, smoker,or anything of that sort, but for me things like food tend to come into play a lot more (You don’t maintain a physique like mine without hearty doses of ice cream, chocolate and other horrible concoctions). However, over the past couple weeks I’ve been fasting and what God has been showing me through that, most of all, has been my addiction to words. Empty words, negative words, words that seem to be spoken for the sake of speaking them. I think that we all have unnecessary and/or negative words from time to time, but I’m just being shown mine in a huge way right now. The bible speaks about the tongue in a way it speaks of nothing else. The power we wield so listlessly in the words we say (or don’t say) is more apparent than ever when you actually start paying attention on a regular basis.

I recently started praying the prayer found in Psalm 141:3. In this verse David says “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips”. Now, I’ve never been much of a gossipy person. I tend to shy away from those types of conversations as often as possible, (yet still falling into the trap from time to time) but what God has shown me is that even if I’m not gossiping or speaking ill of someone, does that mean that my words are being helpful? Are they encouraging? Do they even need to be spoken? These questions have been in the forefront of my mind and prayer life lately and I’d encourage you to ask God to help you do the same!

Our words and how we choose to use them are one of the most powerful things that God has equipped us with for this life. That being said, our words can also inflict more harm and do more evil than we realize sometimes. For me, praying that God would just keep me mindful of what I’m about to say and help me be discerning has been huge. I pray that you are able to benefit from that prayer as well. Be mindful. Lift someone up with your words today. Make someone smile! God will be smiling down on you.

Have any questions? Comments? Shoot me an email and we’ll chat!

Chris Dudley.

So I started out Tampa with a broken iPhone again... Super bummed on the iphone lately. This is my second one in a year... the phone is the only real way i get to communicate with my wife and family so it's kind of urgent that this got worked out. 

But first thing is first! THE GYM!! It's been a while since i've been to the gym, but man it feels good to work out and get my body in shape.. No one likes going to the gym, but once you get in there and you start to sweat things out you start to feel good! I need that as a moral boost so the gym will be a regular thing for me on this tour. 

The Ritz venue was SICK!! I love playing there, the stage is a great size and the crowd was pumped! 15 songs is so looooongg but I'll be honest its a blast.. Matt and I worshiped God on stage together that night and it's really great to have our time of worship on stage. 

  ABR and the Crowd rockin the house! 

I also got the chance to meet up with my buddy Ben who has been a huge fan of ABR for a while and a member of the Heart's community! I had the honor to interview him about some of the things he has been able to overcome and how Heart Support has helped encourage him! Him and his friend Christie came out and also taught me a thing or two about how to operate my Canon T2i! haha I'm not savvy when it comes to technology so thanks Ben and Christie! 

 Also after the show Matt and I ran up to the Heart's merch table and met up with some awesome kids! One kid actually told me he wasn't really huge into religion but was getting baptized this weekend! We talked about the gift Jesus gave us which is the Holy Spirit and that the relationship we have with Jesus is precious and extremely personal. We discussed the trinity and how building that relationship takes patience, time, and prayer! He was really excited to talk about this new relationship but we were running out of time so I gave him a Heart Support postcard and told him to get connected with the community! Pretty awesome!! 

I did end up getting a new iphone FOR FREE! Thanks Dave from the Apple store! Jacksonville HERE WE COME! 

After that I answered some questions on Heart Support and then got ready for the show! The show sold out and was packed to the brim of kids chanting, singing, and dancing! I really enjoy seeing people dance with us during Internal Cannon, really is a change from the norm at a show. 

After the show I went to the Heart Support table and talked with quite a few of you! 

Met one guy who says his aunt passed away and that Heart Support really has helped him through the healing process.. that our blogs are encouraging him and bringing him closer to God. That he has built a stronger relationship with God through Heart Support. That really makes me happy knowing that God is using Heart Support in so many lives.. it's the reason why we do this. 

I then met a guy named Tyler, he is actually from Manheim where the band is based out of in PA. 

We talked about how sometimes we as Christians can be close minded... not being patient or willing to want to hear others out.. cuts us short of learning from others... that when we think we are right and we judge or write someone off can be the worst thing we can do... because we have a lack of patience or we aren't willing or wanting to understand their point of view we then cut out our learning of something more! So the message I want to bring in this blog is ... listen... just be quiet and listen.. even when you think someone is wrong or you don't agree.. really listen because their is most likely something you can learn from the conversation that could highly benefit you or shed wisdom in a part of your life you didn't think you would gain from. 

Lets not judge, lets not block people out until we fully get the whole story or completely hear the message. 

Tonight I learned a lot from you guys... and it's always a blessing to hear what Heart Support has done for others. Thanks guys. Sorry for no pictures tonight.. a lot of them didn't come out very well. 

God Bless HS! 

This was one of the most exciting days of tour! So much that I just wanted to post a ton of pics with captions... so here ya go HS! 

 (Matt and I at Disney World with a Duck!!!)

 (We looked up at the sky at Disney World and saw a message that means the world!) 

(Matt never had a chocolate frozen banana, I had to introduce him to one)

 (Went out to dinner with my friend Ben and his buddies! Great guys and loved talking about our future dreams and careers! Great times!)

 (Guy here has been a fan for a while, him and his wife were stoked on the show and wanted to grab some pics!)

(Hanging with fans at the Heart Support table)

(Matt and Adam Grey teach a drum lesson outside of the club in Disney World) 

So pictures can speak words but after all these I have to say... today was an eventful day, seeing fans and being in a place like today makes me truly feel blessed to be alive and living this life the Lord has blessed me with. Today was a good day! 

Thanks fans, and HS community for encouraging me and having community in a little place called Disney World. 

Florida! We have a few more dates so come out and spend some time with Heart Support! 

God is good. 

Purpose.  We all desire it.  Some of us find it in staying busy.  Others of us find it in not thinking about it.  And some…well, some just never really find it at all.  Purpose motivates us to act, gives meaning to action, and shapes our reaction to the world around us. 

Isolation.  We all fear it.  The idea of finding ourselves completely alone without anyone to call on; it’s frightening.  Being alone is revealing.  The feeling of being isolated parallels the image of being emotionally stripped of all we hold onto and confuse as our own, and left naked and cold with nothing to hide behind. 

There once was a man who knew what it was to have purpose; that man felt isolation to the point of feeling deserted.  “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”  Jesus was the only man who ever lived to fight death in order to save the world. Purpose.  Jesus was the only man who ever felt completely and utterly alone. Isolation.

I believe Jesus had to feel complete separation from his Father in order to prevent us, though deserving of it, to experience the same.  There was no other way for Jesus to take on the sin of the world and give salvation in exchange without dying…alone.  The kind of isolation Jesus felt from his own father might have felt like the flames of an eternity we deserved to feel, separated from God.

You see, I don’t believe that where this life ends and ‘what is after’ begins, is a line we can draw in the sand. I believe there is more of heaven and hell on earth than we care to see or acknowledge. 

A life spent with God, alongside Jesus Christ, aided by the Holy Spirit; it is Heaven on earth.  Finding purpose in our identity as a son or daughter of a living God is purpose we can find on any continent in any dark alley. 

A life spent absent from the love of God, exemplified through Jesus Christ, provoked by the caring conscious of the Holy Spirit; it must be Hell on earth.  Isolation from God is isolation in its truest and boldest form.  Isolation from God is isolation we’ve invited into our homes, our churches, and our cities.  God’s desires for you have never stopped knocking; His purpose for you is not blurred or confused by your movements in life. 

I think Jesus is the only man who, for a brief moment in time, felt the complete absence of God.  That one incredible act of crucifixion gave the world the very hope it needed.  Generations upon generations were given purpose in a single act of the greatest motion of Love in all of history, past and future.

I am on a bus in a dark and cold alley in downtown Stockholm, Sweden.  Though isolated from my family by half of Europe and most of the Atlantic, I know God is here with me.  I’ve found my purpose behind a few drums with a pair of sticks in my hands and the love of God in my heart. 

My purpose is bigger than August Burns Red; it’s to show Christ’s crazy love in every breath, every drumbeat, every motion of my existence.  God gave me these legs to play, these arms to swing, and this heart to love the same way Love looked on that cross. 

Find purpose in the passion God’s given you.  If you feel alone then call out to God, that he would hear your prayers. Matthew 28:20 gives us a promise; “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

“Dear God, please wake me this morning with your purpose for today.  You see me as your own, wonderfully made in your image; help me to see myself that way.  Keep me close and don’t let me go.  I find all of my purpose in you, all of my hope is in you.”

This morning I woke up to Matt and our videographer wanting to go to the gym.. I'll be honest it's been a while since i've gone to the gym but It felt great to work out for an hour and work my arms.. haha i eat more then I play and you can tell.. anyways after the gym we got picked up by a friend and I had some camera stuff being shipped to his house. I've been doing a lot of video interviews on this tour and I needed a few things to help with the camera. I bought a Rode microphone and a battery grip for my T2i. I've never really been into cameras but actually i'm really excited to use this camera and am pumped to capture stories on the road! 

Me with the new Camera! Canon T2i with battery pack. Also have a new Rode Mic! 

Matt after the gym! Happy camper! ha 

Tonight i'll be interviewing Josh Scogin from The Chariot.. some of you might know them.. he is the ex singer of Norma Jean and the Chariot are quite a group of fun, exciting and energetic lads! ha Can't wait to hang with him. 

So the show in Atlanta was packed!! One of the hottest shows but one of the best thus far ! I wasn't really stoked on my vocals but the crowd was intense! Singing along louder than I could hear myself! Afterwards I got to hang out with some kids in the front of the stage and actually had 4 or 5 guys ask to pray over me. It was really different because once they started praying for me it was like they all just prayed out loud and i was hearing 4 different guys praying different things over my life.. I just closed my eyes and soaked it all in! Praying for Heart Support, for strength and love not anger, for God to continue to use me and work in my life and the bands shows.... it really was a breath of fresh air.. something I don't get much of by fans.. very thankful for pray as I am a firm believer in prayer. 

After that I cleaned up as much as I could and met up wtih Josh Scogin from the Chariot! This dude is not only an amazing frontman/vocalist but was one of the biggest insipirations in me starting out to scream... it's great to be able to share my story with him and talk about what Heart Support is doing. He has a huge heart and i told him about how we here at Heart Support want to encourage and inspire and bring a sense of community and fellowship. He totally digs what HS is about and decided to give me some time for an interview! So we did an interview and hopfeully will be posting it up in the weeks to come! I want to gives thanks to the kids that prayed over me tonight.. I really appreciated you guys. And always thanks to the fans! God was moving tonight and I felt it on stage... always a good feeling. 

Tomorrow Florida! Thinking about going to Disney World with Matt and our videographer and then have a lunch date with a friend/fan of ABR. Maybe i'll see some of you out there and you can meet up with us for lunch! Be blessed.

P.S. I was really busy so i didn't get to play, but i'm a huge fan of Call of Duty... I got to watch some guys tear it up tonight! haha 

It was great to see friend Chad Johnson, not sure if you know him or not but he is the founder of Come and Live. It's a worship label that supports Christian worship music... not your typical worship music either.. He has indie rock bands, metal bands, hardcore bands,  worship bands.. but his vision is to bring Heaven on earth through music and lyrics. He is a huge inspiration to myself personally and i love when we have time to catch up. So it was great to see his face today! 

http://www.comeandlive.com 

After the show tonight I had set up the Heart Support table! I literally had a line all the way across the room.. Some people knew of Heart Support and bought shirts and stickers (Which I thank you for supporting) others asked what it was all about! I had one guy explain to me that Heart Support has helped him have a rebirth in his relationship with God! Another guy said that he was from Singapore and that August Burns Red's lyrics inspired him to reach out for his dreams and that is why he is in america, to study Music Business! 

The best part was after the show Matt and I went out to dinner with two kids! One Shane Tyler, he and I have been talking via twitter for a bit and he is part of the HS community. He said he would love to grab dinner with Matt and I. The other guy asked to speak to me after the show... turns out he is one who has been a part of HS for a long time ago! He actually had emailed me two years ago and now we were able to catch up! He has an amazing story and we will be posting both him and Shane's stories soon! 

Another crazy thing is shane has a Heart Support Tattoo!! 

We decided on Waffle House... I LOVE WAFFLE HOUSE! What do i get you ask? oh no big deal, just the texas cheesesteak plate with extra cheese and steak with onions in the sandwich, a side of hashbrowns with cheese and a coffee.. . so basically a heart attack on a plate. .. 

Either way Rocketown is an amazing venue you have Nashville! Kris and I enjoyed watching kids skate in the PARK Inside the venue! Thanks for having us, thanks to the fans and hope to go out to eat with some kids next week! 

God Bless you guys!

So yesterday we had a day off and I actually spent that day with my family in South Carolina. I got to play with one of my two pitbulls Macy! She is the sweetest dog I’ve ever known and I really hope she can move with me in the future up north.

I saw my step father in the hospital who is suffering from a stroke. Please keep him in your prayers… also spent the night with my wife, mother and brother talking about old times and catching up. Being home for a night really helps your moral when you are on tour. It’s really easy to get home sick and miss your family and friends.
I also went to my house I purchased 3 years ago and picked a few things up for the tour. I also was really excited to ride my Harley Davidson Iron 883 motorcycle… unfortunately looks like I’ll be selling her.

In Charleston one of the best places!! I wish I could live here. … hope to meet up with some kids tonight after rocking the Music Farm. Lets hope for the best!

So after the show i went to the Heart Support table and talked with tons of kids. Some wanted to thank me for writing lyrics, others wanted to thank me for Heart Support. It's really quite amazing to see some kids who are so genuine about what they have found at Heart Support. Expressing how much it has helped them grow in their faith or overcome their current struggles... I never thought i'd be used this way. I appreciate all the conversations and hearing testimonies of how HS has helped. 

After that I even talked to a few of the kids standing outside our bus.. Met up with an old friend of mine from Columbia SC, he invited me and my wife to Belmont. Belmont is this 20's bar/restaurant.. they had the most amazing panini! I got the pepperoni and cheese panini! If you live in Charleston and have not gone... you are missing out! So one of the kids I met tonight that showed us Belmont turned out to be a huge fan of ABR.. he has seen us 8 times and was really excited to spend the rest of our night together. Tomorrow in Nashville I plan on going out to dinner with ... well whoever really wants to go out! So if you are going to Nashville show and want to grab some eats after show! Let me know @jakeabr 

Thanks Charleston, friends and fans! Had a blast! Belmont, thanks for the pizza panini and a day off was much needed. 

Yesterday in Charolotte was an amazing day full of family, friends and fans! We’ve played Amos’s quite a few times in the past and we’ve had great shows but last night was one of the best there thus far! Sold out and full of sing alongs and dancing. But let me start from the beginning. I woke up and needed my COFFEE!! Love coffee and probably a little to much. Walked down to the Commen Wealth and met up with two kids waiting for the show. We bought coffee and Wasabi green peas! Have you ever had them? Well if you like hot and spicy you should go get some. They are delicious! Haha  I’m hooked. 

After getting my coffee and getting ready for the day I had to get prepare for a ton of friends and family. I was raised in Columbia South Carolina which is just two hours from Charlotte.. I had my mother and brother coming out, my old boss with 12 of his friends, Joe Musten (Drummer for the Almost AND Team member of Heart Support) and my buddy Chip Harbin a tattoo artist AND pastor! 

         (Chip Harbin and Joe Musten)

So before the show I actually got the chance to interview Chip Harbin about being a pastor and tattoo artist. We talked about where his dream as an artist started and what he has had to sacrifice in order to be successful.  He is a great guy and has a lot to say so I’m really excited to post his video up in the near future! He also is a supporter of Heart Support and loves the community!

Matt also had his first HS drum lesson that day as well! Matt really enjoyed teaching and meeting other younger drummers and is excited for the lessons to come! 

When my mom and brother showed up we went to one of my favorite sub shops! JIMMY JOHNS!!!! Unfortunately wasn’t able to eat that until after our 15 song set.. but it was my reward after the show.

After we rocked the stage at Amos’s in Charlotte Matt, Joe Musten, and I met up with kids at the Heart Support table! Met kids that prayed over me which is just awesome. Thankful for prayers and met tons of you who are a part of the community. Thanks for the conversations and the encouragement from all of you.
We talked about how God has changed our lives and moved us forward in life. Talked about how God has helped us overcome struggles and talk about how powerful prayer is and pursing God. I ended the night with Joe Musten talking about how powerful music is and how excited he is to be a part of Heart Support.  Joe is one of the greatest guys I know. He has a huge heart for people and is stoked to be a part of this community! So if you are reading this connect with this guy cause he is amazing!

 Thanks to all the HS supporters who purchased a shirt and donated to the community! Thanks so much guys, God Bless you. 

P.S. Matt and I want to say thanks to Chip Harbin for the piece of art he created for ABR! Thanks brother! Love you! 

Then I actually was able to meet up with an amazing vocalist and a strong man of God.. Matt Montgomery. I was able to interview him for this months Guts, Gifts and Glory campaign, about what is HIS love and what he's sacrificed to live for HIS love. So amazing! We talked in the back of the ABR bus for an hour and I have to say Matt has a lot to say, and I know that I could learn a lot from this guy. He plays in a band called For Today.. check them out and go to a show cause they kill it! 

We will be posting his interview soon! 

A couple of kids won a meet and greet contest and met up with us around 4 this afternoon!! We took them on to our bus and watched a little bit of the 49ers game "which was incredible" and found out that one of the kids is RATED #1 online for Drummer ROCK BAND!! We actually watched a video of him playing Rock band on drums on a super fast level and didn't MISS A BEAT!!! It was amazing! Wow!! It was really neat to sit down with those two brothers and just be able to hang out with fans and get to know them more. We gave them some signed drum heads and took some pics! Pretty cool times! 

Then after the show, which was a sweaty one and i think everyone was really exhausted from the other ten bands that played tonight... we played all 15 songs.. and honestly my voice seemed to hold up pretty well.. So after i showered and was heading to the bus.. I was able to meet up with a Heart Support SUPPORTER named Justin ! Awesome guy who leads the youth and stages events for the youth.. It wasn't very long but it was awesome just to talk about how God is working in our lives.. He mentioned that he sometimes asks himself if he is where God wants him to be.. and God replies YES without a doubt.. That is an amazing feeling... and i would love to stress that to everyone.. Ask God if you are where you should be.. where He wants you to be.. We also talked about how powerful and real prayer is! He is a great guy and I enjoyed out talk. God Bless you Baltimore and thanks for everything. 

New Jersey,

 Today I walked out of the bus having no idea what club we were at… then I realized that we were in New Jersey at the Starland Ballroom. A club I’ve shared many memories with many people and bands, As I Lay Dying being one of those bands and people. I knew tonight was going to be an amazing show… however I was extremely nervous due to the fact that we are playing 15 songs on this tour and I starting a few on click.. We just ordered new in ear monitors and I’ve been against them for the past two years… but this tour I’m giving them a shot. I’ll make sure to have a pic of them along with this.

Matt, Dustin and Mason (Drum Tech) decided to walk a mile down the street for Dunkin Donuts.. none of us are die hard fans of Dunkin Donuts but we were really craving some food and coffee..  Come to find out Matt’s mom is a huge Dunkin Donuts fan. Haha I just like coffee..

It’s actually really nice to be on a bus.. we had done a van and trailer for so long in our career that finally stepping up to a bus was exciting and still is. I’m really thankful to be at this level in ABR’s career…  Something Matt and I discussed.. just thinking back on all that we were before ABR got to where we are today..

Starting out just jamming as kids, with no real amazing writing or songs… but then walking back down the street to the bus from Dunkin Donuts… coming to the realization that we are in a full time touring band, on a bus … me with a wife… It really made us think of how blessed we are and how far we’ve really gone. When you think of where you’ve been and where you are today… it makes you thankful for what you currently have.. I call those current blessings..

Think about it.

Ok, I’ve gotta go on stage .. wish me luck.. hope it goes well for the first show.. PS I was born in New Jersey.. so I guess I’m home?

OK so I just got done with the show and it was AMAZING!!!

 I met two kids Greg and Steve… they wrote a letter to HS and the band about how much HS and ABR has helped them grow as men and as followers of Christ… it really struck me to understand what it is that I'm really doing here in this band…

I was really thankful for that letter and the letter bringing me the understanding of how I and the band and Heart Support is impacting people.. wow!

I’m so exhausted but it was great talking to the fans after the show and meeting kids who have dreams just as much as I do.

Here are some pics of today/tonight! 

BALTIMORE SEE YOU TOMORROW! 

PS the in ears i have a lion from a kid who drew it for me and Isaiah 61:1-3 which is--

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,

because the Lord has anointed me

to bring good news to the poor;

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives,

and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor,

and the day of vengeance of our God;

to comfort all who mourn;

to grant to those who mourn in Zion—

to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,

the oil of gladness instead of mourning,

the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;

that they may be called oaks of righteousness,

the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified."

Go here to see dates!! http://www.augustburnsred.com/

After every show, Jake Luhrs and Matt Greiner will be at Heart Support’s merch table to hang out with you guys! Make sure to stop by and chat with them about life, tour, and Heart Support! 

The theme of this tour is Guts, Gifts, and Glory, and we want to hear your stories and testimonies! What are your dreams? What do you want to succeed in? How do you plan on making these dreams a reality? It’s going to take some guts to get there, and what tools and gifts do you have to make it? And when you make it, to whom and what are you going to give glory?

Write a guest blog for Heart Support about your dreams, and come hang out with Heart Support on tour to talk about our dreams, goals, and how we want to live our lives.

Go here to see dates!! http://www.augustburnsred.com/

Jan 15 - Charlotte, NC

Jan 19 - Atlanta, GA

Jan 25 - Houston, TX

Jan 29 - San Antonio, TX

Feb 5 - San Francisco, CA

Feb 15 - Winnipeg, Manitoba

Feb 22 - Cleveland, Ohio

Feb 26 - Montreal, QC

Come hang out with Matthew Greiner and Jake Luhrs on tour! If you are in these areas on these dates email mattteachesdrums@hotmail.com and submit yourself to being apart of the Sticks and a Pad sessions!

Lessons will be held by Matt Greiner in a convenient location. 

Lessons will be 30 minutes long. 

Requirements: Bring your own drums sticks along with a drum pad for lessons. 

Jan 15 - Charlotte, NC

Jan 19 - Atlanta, GA

Jan 25 - Houston, TX

Jan 29 - San Antonio, TX

Feb 5 - San Francisco, CA

Feb 15 - Winnipeg, Manitoba

Feb 22 - Cleveland, Ohio

Feb 26 - Montreal, QC

Come hang out with Matthew Greiner and Jake Luhrs on tour! If you are in these areas on these dates email mattteachesdrums@hotmail.com and submit yourself to being apart of the Sticks and a Pad sessions!

Lessons will be held by Matt Greiner in a convenient location. 

Lessons will be 30 minutes long. 

Requirements: Bring your own drums sticks along with a drum pad for lessons. 

“Did you ever kill anyone?”

10 minutes ago I was greeted by screaming friends and family that looked eerily similar to an episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition minus the tanned guy with perfectly groomed hair and highlights.

 Back to the question:

“So did you ever kill anyone?”

To be honest, I had done a lot in 11 years in the military. I had kicked in doors in Afghanistan and raided homes. My base got mortared 67 times in 9 months. I had been in numerous ambushes and firefights. At one point, I had a bounty on my head for $20,000 courtesy of the Taliban. In response, I grew a beard, wore civilian clothes and carried a rifle. You probably know the picture….the guy with the baseball cap on, a thick beard and an Afghan scarf looking like he stepped out of the Medal of Honor video game? Yup, I looked like him. Eventually my luck ran out and I got wounded pretty badly one month before returning home. Pieces of shrapnel in my back, a shattered wrist, and a concussion, but I came to expect that working in the United States Special Operations Command.

In Iraq I kicked in more doors, took shotgun pellets to the face (courtesy of a trigger happy Marine), watched IEDs explode in front of my vehicle, watched people shoot at my vehicle, watched people shoot at me, watched people shoot my friends, attended funerals, cried, laughed, got depressed, screamed, ranted, fought, got dirty, got dirtier, didn’t shower for 3 weeks, burned my own feces, cried some more, got PTSD, then I went home.

The question still loomed:

“Did. You. Kill anyone?”

And people would always ask at really inappropriate times.

Birthdays.

Funerals.

Weddings.

Family reunions.

And I still hate the question…

It’s like someone sticking a microphone in my face and saying “Quick!  Tell me how you felt after your girlfriend/fiancée/wife left you?” It’s not the question that bothers me so much as the emotion that goes along with it. How, exactly, am I supposed to feel? More importantly, how is the average male supposed to act when asked?

Suck it up. Show no emotion. Don’t cry…...crying is for girls. You’re a machine. An elite killer. Breathe. Don’t jerk the trigger. Just the slightest pull because you’re a…….

A man.

Somewhere in our culture it’s getting drilled into young men’s minds that going to war and taking a life makes you more of a man. It’s macho. Sexy. Guys want to be you and girls want to be with you.  

Which brings me to my basic introduction of manhood in the 21st century:

1.  Fast cars, abs, benching  = chicks.  Painting, the arts, and dance are for men with feminine qualities. 

2.  Sports are more important than academics because it makes you cool.  No one likes nerds.  Nerds have calculators. And goldfish. No girlfriends.

3.  Objectify women. Turn them into sex kittens to fulfill your fantasies and when they don’t meet that standard, break up with them.

4.  A quick addition to #3.  Date eight women at a time so you can keep your options open.  Why tie yourself down? Don’t date their friends though. Drama.

5. It’s all about you, and if it isn’t, that’s societies fault. Buy more. Consume more. Be happy and in love only with YOU.

That last one, Number 5? It’s a common term known as narcissism, and the problem with masculinity today is that we are breathing narcissistic death into our young men with every word, TV show, advertisement, lyric….you name it. And we’re in this really weird situation where we expect men to behave like King Arthur and the Knights of the Round, but instead of getting Lancelot, we celebrate manhood in a whole different way that encourages narcissism rather than destroying it and buy into the lie that it’ll make us happy.

Let me be very transparent for a moment and tell you how I bought into the lie.

I can’t tell you how many women I’ve slept with because I got freaked out by the number one day and stopped counting, but all my friends told me the more women I was with, the more awesome I was and I believed them. I got hooked on pornography for a solid 10 years and got into some pretty shady fetishes and even now that I’m married I have to keep software on my computer that sends a report to my wife of every website I visit. I was a total jerk to women and would laugh at them when they told me about their “feelings” and how I had “used them.” I cared about no one but me and only how I could get ahead in life. My life was about me. It was everything I had seen on TV, everything my friends had told me.

I was an American male’s dream. I was supposed to be happy, right? RIGHT?

So if we’re living these lives of so-called masculinity, having all the sex we want, treating women however we want, making it all about us then why does the average male feel so empty and alone?  

It’s because that’s NOT what makes you a man or will ever fulfill you as a man. 

Selflessness, self-sacrifice, passion and zeal to protect God's daughters, creativity, ingenuity, integrity, brutal honesty, compassion, these are some of the marks of manhood, but it seems no one really wants to teach that. Sure, we can all name movies with some of those traits, but look at everything else were being taught through movies, TV shows, and commercials. Selflessness? Nope, narcissism. And for the life of me I’ve never heard someone walk into the Sistine Chapel and describe Michelangelo’s masterpiece as “something made by a  pansy,” yet somehow some of the traits I just listed off would get labeled as such.

God has created us to live these lives of epic adventure and creativity…to have battles to fight, to be generous rather than greedy, to value honesty rather than beautiful lies, to pursue our passions rather than settle, to chase after a woman, romance her and fight for her honor…..to sacrifice so that we can be servants instead of slaves to society. The problem is were so content living the life of a cultured dog that in the same way the dog thinks it’s accomplished a major task by fetching a bone for it’s master or chasing a fire truck it can’t catch, we are completely content mastering Call of Duty and pursuing a woman when it’s convenient for us.

This is why I love the Apostle Paul and how blunt he is towards men. In his closing letter to the Corinthian Church, he stops mid-sentence and says this:

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  Let all that you do be done in love.”

That's always an ego shot. Any time you hear, “Why don't you act like a man?,” it's just a little shot to a man’s self esteem (I’m sure ladies are taking note). The phrase I want to focus on though is this one, “Be watchful”.

Why?

Because every man knows where he’s weak.  

EVERY.  

MAN.  

KNOWS.  

We know if we play too many video games and slack at responsibilities. We know if we got porn issues. We know if we got anger issues. We know if we treat our girl like garbage. We know if we’re jealous. So Paul says be watchful of that and act like a man. Be strong! Doesn’t it make sense to work at the areas in our lives where we’re weak? If I have a Porsche but I continually pour water in the gas tank doesn’t that, in the grand scheme of things, seem a little dumb?Wouldn’t it make sense to make the effort to get gas even if the path to get the gas is really hard?

“Let all that you do be done in love.”

I remember after I got home from Afghanistan and finally saw my grandfather. My grandfather was a paratrooper in the 82^nd Airborne during WWII. He missed the D-Day jump because he caught pneumonia and was hospitalized. He personally met General George Patton and was his scotch supplier during the war. I had always looked up to my grandfather and thus went to war with the 82^nd Airborne as well.

We sat down on his porch during a beautiful Colorado afternoon and watched the cotton trees in his backyard make it look like it was snowing even though it was summer.

“Now you’re a man…….”

I nodded, not entirely sure what I was supposed to say, but then I caught his eyes. His eyes weren’t proud of me. It was something else. Maybe pained or compassionate.

My grandfather knew I was a man not because of a rifle or a battle or the fact I had been shot.  His eyes told a different story.

His eyes said:

“Now you’re a man because you know what sacrifice means. You know what it’s like to care so much for the men to your left and right that you’d do anything for them, including give your life so they make it home. You know what it’s like to care about something more than yourself. You know what it’s like to serve without expecting anything in return. Every action you made was in love for another person. This is why you’re a man now”

It felt weird. Foreign. It didn’t feel right. I knew there were men out there who had given more. Arms. Legs. Life.

Today I know there’s only one person that perfectly embodies any of what my grandfather’s eyes spoke to me. His name is Jesus. The only one who’s walked in complete love and sacrificed everything for us. You want to know what it looks like to be a man? Look to the life of Jesus. I mean, you want to talk about self-sacrifice and all the valiant themes that men love so much, then the life of Jesus should set the bar for all men to follow.

And listen, don’t hear me say, “do this stuff and act this way and you’re a man,” because the truth is all of us are failing this at some level. That's why the cross is such a beautiful thing. I don't think there's anybody reading this that's like, “Follow me, boys.” I don't think there are. If there are, I sure wouldn't follow them. Proud and arrogant, I wouldn't follow that guy. I'd follow the guy that's like, “I'm trying. Here's how I'm trying.” That's the guy I want to get around.  Flaws, screw-ups and all. To be more to the point, isn’t that the type of guys Jesus hung around?  Screw-ups, sinners, and weirdos that were at least trying?

And then, here's my hope for any ladies reading this. My hope is that God would put in your heart a deep and consistent desire for a man, not a male. They get born that way. It doesn’t make them a man. Finding a man like this is gonna be like climbing a ladder to the moon, but don’t settle for anything less. Please don’t settle for less than the way you deserve to be treated. And please, please don’t settle for less than what’s demanded of the men by God.

May we be ferocious, God-fearing men that raise up a new generation and not another weak-willed one.

Ben Sledge, college pastor for Gateway Church in Austin, TX

Giving materialistic things to someone with a heart issue.

 Do you ever find yourself giving and putting in time and money into a person? Then seeing that person not even move an inch in the right direction? It’s so frustrating. Why do you think that is? You've done so much for this person, so why aren't they getting better or correcting the problems at hand that have been discussed? 

It could very well be that there is a heart issue at hand. I touched on this at the end of the “Casting Pearls” blog and I’m going to get into it a little deeper now. A heart issue: any issue that can destroy the heart. It’s a difficult thing to face, and most often when we see a person stagnant, we can be sure they are unwilling to delve into it. The person simply doesn’t want to deal with their heart issue. It's hard to face, it's hard to change. Some people just accept it as who they are, and never face the issue. Only then it begins to fester and grow, and become bigger and stronger in their life. And when someone like you comes along to guide, help, pursue, strengthen and invest time into them...it simply doesn’t just go away.

Their is no point in trying to help someone fix their porn problem when there heart issue is that they have been molested… or that they don't love their own bodies.. 

No point in trying to help someone's heroin addiction when they don't love their own hearts and don't feel of any worth inside.. Do you get what I'm saying? 

Some of the sin in our lives are just problems that have grown because of the heart issues never being faced, destroyed or conquered. If we have heart issues, it's extremely important that we speak about them and tackle them head on! With help of course! Seek counsel, pray, allow God in to fix what has been broken. He is your Healter. If you don't destroy the heart issue, it could destroy you. 

 Jacob +

When we think of giving this time of year, we tend to ONLY think of this time of year. Many of us, myself included at times, hardly think of the chance to give all year, with the same level of enthusiasm we have during Christmas. It doesn't have to be much, even giving time to others can help. Just recently, I helped mentor the middle school choir kids as I'm in my high school choir. This was a gift both given and received by me. I got the chance to do what love, which is singing, while helping the younger kids improve on what they like to do. Helping them made me feel like I was a part of something bigger, and with God we are just that. One body.

"Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver." - 2 Corinthians 9:7

Sometimes, a gift can really change your life. A few months ago I was fed up with the drama and stress of life. I felt worthless and I had turned from God. I was lying, drinking, and not doing what I needed to be doing. So, on September 12, 2011 I attempted suicide. My mom stopped me and took me to the E.R. I was then sent to a mental hospital for further evaluation. I was there, and not allowed outside at all, for three days. The worst part for me was that, during that time, it was my mom's birthday. I had no money for a present, and obviously couldn't get one in the mental hospital, so I did the only thing I could: I made her a card. It was all I could give, but I felt terrible for doing this to myself, but more so to my family. After a tearful visit, I realized in full how I had tried to rob myself of one of God's greatest gifts: life. Since I wasn't allowed outside, when I left, everything seemed bright and warm. I walked outside feeling nothing but hope. I remember we were driving down the street, and as I saw all the people and all the cars, I began tearing up. I finally saw the beauty of the world God had made for us. All of these people were inter-connected, in that one Body of Christ. It took me seventeen years to see that.

"The righteous cry, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near them that are of a broken heart, and saves such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them. He keeps all of his bones, not one of them is broken" - Psalm 34:17-20

If you are contemplating suicide, let me say a few things. For one, it is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. You may have heard that before, but it does not make it any less true. God never gives us more than we can handle. That's one of His gifts to us: the promise of a better tomorrow. He made us out of love, and Christ gave his life, so we would have the gift of forgiveness. So, if that is the case, you are clearly worth a lot. Dying for someone like that is an act of pure love.

Now, when I found Heart Support, I was struggling (still am) to stay off of drugs. Kris Luhrs showed me a passage I consider a valuable gift. To understand exactly why, you need to know I was asking for advice on staying clean in college. She said to have the mindset that I CAN overcome temptation, along with this passage:

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what IS that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."- Romans 12:2

I carry this with me, because she, along with Jake and all of Heart Support, have given me the gift of self-confidence. So, as you think of how to give this Christmas, remember that you can give any day of the year too, and that sometimes the intangibles are the most heartfelt gifts. 

God bless,

Dalton

To give from the heart: this is something we don’t do nearly enough. I find people, including myself, are the first to be excited about us. What is it we want to do, or what we want to have. We think about what we need, or what’s best for us. Sounds pretty selfish doesn’t it? It’s ironic because, as Christians, we are called to be selfless and humble, people who give from the heart and allow God to reveal Himself through our actions.

How are we suppose to do that if we are putting so much time and energy into what we want? And when we do give, how are we doing so? Are we giving because we want people to see us giving? Do we just want to look like a “good” person? We should give because we want to, regardless if it’s recognized. We should give because we have the understanding that giving to others is a form of love. A form that is severely overlooked and unacknowledged by the world.

I know that my God wants me to give. I believe that is a huge part in our calling as Christians. I mean, look at God, He gave His Son for our lives! He gave His Son to bear the penalty on the cross for our sins so we could be redeemed back and walk with Him once again. Wow. It still blows my mind when I think about it. I can’t imagine any of us giving a family member to be whipped, beaten, slandered, stabbed, and eventually killed for the murderers, adulterers, scoffers, idolaters, any kind of sinner in general, of this world. I can’t imagine us sacrificing a family member to compensate for the sins of people who deny that very member. God did; He gave Jesus for us. That is true love for His creation.

Yes, we should be giving more, realizing how it affects the people around us, and  really learning what it means to give. Personally, I want to gain more humility and truly understand the passion and beauty that lies in giving from my heart. I really desire to make a bigger effort in giving more time to the Lord in prayer and worship, and more time in submitting myself to God so that He truly is leading my life. Everyone enjoys declaring how we let God lead our lives, but in order to do so, we really need to give Him our time to do just that! If I give Him more of my time, then I know that He will show me how to give more of my heart to others. If I give more time to worshiping and honoring Him, I know that He takes joy in that, and what else do I really want? Honestly, what else does my heart really, really want?

I want to encourage you to give more time to your family, to your sister, brother, husband, wife, father, mother, friend, community! Dads, sit down with your kids and give them more of your time. Husbands, give more time to your wife today, ask her about her feelings and needs and how she feels about her life right now. Teens, go give time to your parents, thank them for giving you opportunities, and talk with them about what makes you tick. Give more time to your friends. Give time to a stranger who needs a kind word. Give time to the outcast in school who just doesn’t fit in. Above all, give time to our Lord, our sovereign Father who loves us like crazy. Give more time to what really matters in life.

And when we give more, we feel more. We feel something inside us that perhaps we haven’t felt in a while. Please know that giving makes a difference, not just in us, but others around us. A positive difference, full of grace and strength. Let’s strive to perfect that art of heart-felt giving in our lives.

*** For the month of December, 10% of ANY purchases from our STORE, will be DONATED to PROJECT WILLIMANTIC!! Want to learn more about the cause? Watch the video below! *****

(You don't just get the signature, you get a drum kit too!!!)

(Two of the wackiest guys on the ADTR crew, We love you Cowboy and Country)

(Who likes DW drums? Matt does!!!)

(Hanging out with Fans!!!!) 

(Matt and Brandon ABR's Videographer) 

The first time we went there we tried some really odd delicacies. For example, I had raw fish... .. just a small fish and some scales ripped off.. that was about it. Head and everything!! Then I topped it off with COW STOMACH!!! It was interesting to say the least! 

We also stopped by the best sushi place of all time! Apparently the guy we met is the creator of the actual ROLL.. He had photos with Tiger woods, generals and I think even presidents.. I got a photo with him! He ruled! 

We also went to a Japanese castle which if you've ever played Call Of Duty World at War, you might of seen cause it's in the game! haha It was amazing to see all of the art inside the castle and just be in a place that has so much history! 

Our last visit we went out to the water where the winds blew us all over the place and we sat almost off the edge of a cliff! Then for our last day there, the promotors and our label took us out for a little cookout on the beach! 

We cooked some sort of meat that tasted like steak, some raw clams, and raw shrimp on the grill. The shrimp were some of the LARGEST shrimp I've ever had. As i tried taking the skin and head off of mine along with the legs.. i saw some of the natives just biting the heads RIGHT OFF!! ... I'm not a big sea food guy, but it didn't seem like anything was holding them back! haha 

We also had some time to talk about Heart Support and what the site is all about! Some of the friends we were with didn't know much english but were very excited to see the website and understand what it is we are all about! 

The shows were a blast, the bands we shared the stage with were great and the food and culture is mind blowing! THANK YOU SO MUCH JAPAN FOR YOUR HOSPITALITY!! God Bless and I hope to come back next year! 

Two and a half years ago I wrote a piece on healing and forgiveness during my solitude. I feel compelled to extend my thoughts on that now. At that time, I focused more on forgiveness of others and healing for self-beneficial reasons. Don't get me wrong, that piece still speaks to my life but there is so much more to it. I should preface this blog by saying that, in "Healing," I referenced to others hurting you and needing to forgive them in order to receive healing. This can be extraordinarily difficult, however, I often feel that it's more difficult to forgive ourselves.

I want you to think of the worst thing you have ever done. Got it? Now, if you’re looking at this thing honestly, can you say you are healed from it? You may have moved forward, by the grace of God, or it may still haunt you. Perhaps you feel as though you’ve received healing from it, but it’s simply absent from your mind because it’s so suppressed. Or even worse, you don’t feel that you deserve healing and continually live under the shame of it.

Forgiveness seems like a very straight-forward and uncomplicated subject in the Word. Christ has redeemed us back to God, we are forgiven by Him, and we are to forgive others as well in order to receive our own forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15, Mark 11:25, Luke 17:3-4, 2 Corinthians 2:10-11, Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:13-14, etc.) Healing is pretty basic as well: Christ’s sacrifice provides this and by His stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:5.) I don’t think any Christian would argue they need to forgive others, have grace, love thy neighbor, all of that. But what about forgiving ourselves? I personally haven’t found anything in the Bible that speaks directly about forgiveness of self. How important is it? A perk, or a necessity? How drastically does it stunt your spiritual growth, if at all? There is a point in everyone’s lives where they can unfortunately relate to Paul in Romans 7:15-24--

“For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 

So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?”

Paul closes out Romans 7 with these thoughts. The beautiful thing about this is he rushes to open Romans 8 with this statement: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” He grieves and mourns over this battle with sin for chapters, and then he sums up the solution in one eloquently written line. No condemnation? That’s great news. However, this doesn’t solve the issue on forgiveness of self. The best way to understand the importance of this is to face the facts of what life would be like without (self) forgiveness.

If we did not forgive ourselves, despite God pardoning us, we would still be living in condemnation. Perhaps not God’s condemnation, but our own. I cannot imagine how God could truly utilize us as His vessels if we were in a constant state of reproach. Pastor, evangelist, and professor Dr. Mike Brown speaks about living in and through God’s self-portrait of us. This is applicable here because it’s impossible to carry out God’s assignments for us into competition if the view of ourselves is not aligned with His. Let’s use Gideon for an example -- when the Midianites were oppressing Israel, the angel of the Lord came to him and said, “The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.” Anyone who knows this story knows, at that moment in time, those were the last words you would be using to describe Gideon. However, God knew His plans for Gideon and He chose to view Him in the image of who Gideon would grow to be, not who he was now. However, for God to work through him and make him this mighty man of valor, Gideon would have to start viewing himself that way and putting the past behind him. We must do the same. We cannot be living in this idea of who we were, the mistakes we’ve made, or the sin that at one time entangled us. A time of repentance is vital, but beyond that, carrying that shame is impairing, furthermore, detrimental for us to hinder our future with torment over our past sin.

This pours over onto the question of spiritual growth. If we are unable to truly move forward on God’s path, then our spiritual growth is inevitably stunted and certainly restrained. If we find ourselves unable to fully approach the throne of grace due to sins that have since been repented of, there is a tremendous issue at hand. God is our Source, to life, to everything. If we are cut off from the Source, how can we live? It is impossible to truly fulfill the work of Heaven on earth if we are mentally, emotionally, or spiritually stuck in a particular moment of time in our lives. We have to move forward, seek first His kingdom and His face, live in the image of a new creation in Christ, and all of these things, including spiritual growth, shall be added unto us.

The reason it’s so deeply on my heart to express this is because if we don’t do this, Christ’s work on the cross was in vain. If we permanently impair ourselves due to fleeting or momentary sin, our work will be incomplete and Christ’s sacrifice is only beneficial after this lifetime. But His sacrifice wasn’t just meant for the eternal, it was meant for now. Our work now is eternal. We all somewhat understand, if only in brief epiphanies throughout our life, how truly immeasurable and great God’s love for us is. We are aware that our grace and love towards others is a reflection of God’s love. But people seem to forget that we are to love ourselves that much as well. You can’t love others if you don’t love yourself, hence “love thy neighbor as thyself.” This is a call to love others as much as you love yourself. So, let us forgive ourselves and keep our eyes focused on God’s image of us and what lies ahead. 

“But one thing I do: 

 Forgetting what lies behind and straining towards what lies ahead.” 

Philippians 3:13

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

Romans 8:18

• "Nearly all men who view pornography use it as the stimulus for masturbation. As a result they frequently suffer feelings of guilt, shame, regret and humiliation.

• Many men become addicted to pornography and lose their freedom. They feel trapped, out of control, and in despair. They literally become slaves to their own lust.

• Pornography places men on an emotional roller coaster. One minute they're happy, the next they're sad; calm, then angry; kind, then cold. These moods change without warning, causing stress and pain for wives, children, friends and associates. Feelings of estrangement ensue, further isolating and alienating them from their loved ones, which often drive men even deeper into the self-medicating escape of pornography.

• Men isolated on the slippery slope of pornography typically fail in their families and marriages, and in their relations with people in general. They are less effective, less reliable, less creative, and more prone to meanness and fits of anger. In essence, pornography turns men into zombie-like characters who are but a shadow of their true selves and potential. They waste their time, talents and resources, caught up in their own dark little world of pornography viewing.

• In the advanced stages, pornography addiction can lead a man to commit rape, incest, violence, exhibitionism, other sex-related crimes and even suicide. Millions of men have lost their families, their careers, their reputations, their good names, and their freedom just to satisfy their addiction.

• Pornography can take an immensely good, talented, enthusiastic man and turn him into one of the walking dead."

"In marriage, the process leading to climax at least has the potential to be a binding, loving, giving experience for both the man and the woman. No such benefits exist with porn. And, in fact, when a husband is locked into the porn process leading to his private orgasms, this selfish attitude will nearly always spill over to his marriage. Over time, he will be less of a soul mate and more of an isolationist. Plus, sooner or later he will begin seeing his wife as an object similar to the porn images he views in order to achieve climax. Thus, pornography often turns intimacy in marriage into a totally selfish and narrow experience."

"Though, pornography initially triggers an increase in sexual activity, it is anything but intimate. It wasn't attraction to our partner that generated the contact, but a need to gratify the desires built up by viewing others.  Forgive me for being blunt, but this turns our mate into little more than a tool for masturbation.  Even more sad is the fact that, over time, our mate becomes the least favorite tool, since the other options place fewer expectations or demands on us.  This is more than a weakened relationship, it is infidelity as severe as adultery, the affair being, in this case, with yourself."

"In pornography, intimacy is something to be avoided, and–as I say in the book–”In pornography nobody makes love. They all make hate.” The man makes hate to the woman’s body. It’s about the destruction of intimacy."

“They would watch things being done to women that they would not want done to the women they love. It psychologically destabilizes them to violate their own innate sense of justice, fairness and the golden rule and reduces their own self-respect."

The Heart Support team decided that this month’s topic should be lust. At first, I felt that I couldn’t contribute in a sense, but then I realized it was important for a female’s voice to weigh in here. (Just to preface this: I understand woman can and do struggle and relate to lust. I am writing this blog to the women who don’t understand it, reject it, and ostracize according to it.) Lust is something that is completely celebrated in our society, and completely shunned in Christianity. However, I don’t believe lust to be a bad thing. Now don’t freak out just yet; allow me to explain. Lust, in itself, is not bad. It simply means to have a strong desire, a yearning if you will. Christ referenced to having this kind of fervent desire about meeting for the Last Supper (Luke 24:15). God designed lust for our lives, and when used in the correct intent, it can be a beneficial, and dare I say, lovely thing. 

The issue we encounter with lust is not lust, but enticement. It is the alluring, inveigling of our flesh that entices our strong desires (lust) to become sinful. This is why Paul stressed the importance of renewing our minds on a daily basis (Romans 12:2). There is a war between our flesh and our spirit, and our minds are the deciding factor. If our desires are being enticed by our flesh, it’s absolutely imperative that we have a transformed mind to keep us in check. This is applicable to lust, as well as anything else.

With that being said, let’s concentrate on lust in the sinful, enticed sense. From what I’ve gathered, this seems to be the most difficult battle men will ever fight. And, particularly for Christian men, this seems to be a vicious, constant attack on their being. I can’t sit here and say that I will ever fully relate to it, but I do think it’s worth investing time into at least trying. If this is the specific sin that women are going to raise hell about to their men, I’d think it’s only fair to try to understand as best as possible. 

Please don’t get me wrong -- I absolutely believe pornography is completely exploiting to woman. I’m not even talking only about the woman who are participating in them, but the woman outside of that world, living in reality, who now have to suffer under the depravity that men live in due to the effects of pornography. I also believe that sex obviously sells, and the true definition of beauty is completely perverted. The Word defines beauty as a woman with a gentle and quiet spirit who fears the Lord; the world defines beauty as an exposed, seductive, unrealistic woman...who never has pants on for some reason. (I mean, really? You don’t have a job or something? How can you hang out in your sexiest lingerie all day long?) I think the combination of the two have woman with true beauty and a biblical worth living under the shame of this false image of beauty. I also believe that these two things make it a thousand times more difficult for men to stay pure.

What really bothers me, and truly took me a long time to even view it this way is this: If all sin is equal in God’s eyes, then how can we choose to oppress people who struggle with the particular sin of lust? Ladies, if we’re being honest here, we are the first to come down hard on any man that we know struggles with this, especially our significant others. I’ve been so guilty of this before in my life. We are quick to be repulsed and find their struggle totally unfathomable to us. It is more of a stretch for us to understand because men are wired very differently than women. But let’s think of it this way -- what if lust to men is gossip to woman? What if their Playboy was our People’s magazine? And I don’t even want to hear it -- we all flip through those junky magazines while waiting to check out at the grocery store. Why? Our flesh is enticed by curiosity. It’s a sin to sit there and involve ourselves in gossip, slander, deceit, lies, cruel and hurtful judgment, etc. It’s garbage in every sense. Yet we do. Furthermore, what if lust to men is self-image issues/deprecation to women? What is lust to men is gluttony to women? If we start comparing it to sins we can relate to, it doesn’t seem so horrific.

What makes us superior to men in their battle with lust? What makes our sins “more okay” and theirs “less tolerable?” How can we even begin to gauge something like that? It’s not even our right to judge in the first place; the measure of judgment we use towards others is the measure to which we will be judged (Matthew 7:2). Yikes. And in no way, whatsoever, am I suggesting accepting lust, or the disgusting patterns of enticement, nor the way society has destroyed and perverted beauty. I’m simply stating that perhaps we should lighten up on the judgment, and be more understanding to the war against sin, because we are fighting in that war as well. At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matterwhich sin we are discussing here. The only things I will know for certain in any situation is based on what the Lord has said on the matter. I may never fully comprehend the battle with lust, but I know how I should be reacting to it. I should be compassionate, loving, eager to understand, patient, forgiving, and encouraging others to return to their paths with the reverence and purity of my life. This is what I am called to do as a woman; this is what I am called to do as a follower of Christ.

By high school I had surrendered to the enemy and it seemed that lust had won the war. I figured it’s a losing battle since it came at me from all angles – sexy advertisements, suggestive shows on television, girls everywhere wearing seductive clothing, friends encouraging me that it’s normal to lust, pornography at the click of a mouse, and everyone I knew engaging in sex. This surrender to lust caused me years of pain and suffering. When you’re in the battle, you don’t bother to stop and see how busted up you are, you just keep fighting. With no one tending to my wounds, I became weak from loss of blood and fell on the battlefield of lust. It wasn’t until Jesus Christ picked me up from my disgusting, filthy, blood-covered trench and brought me to safety.

This happened the moment I gave my life to Jesus. He began to change me from the inside out and used His blood in my transfusion. Just like any injury, healing took time. Having to deal with these injuries was painful. I had to deal with not only my own wounds, but the wounds I had caused others. I began to think about future wounds to others (future wife and family) if I did not get a grip on this issue of lust. 

Pornography, masturbation, and lust seemed unconquerable in the past. I have been given hope in the fact that, even in my most perverse moments, God still loved me. It’s hard not to feel unworthy of God’s love when you feel like such scum. This is where Jesus intercedes, and God’s love is sent through the Holy Spirit. He makes us new creations and transforms our minds. I began to love what God loves – righteousness, honesty, purity. And hatred that grew for what offends Him – sexual immorality, deceit, lust (even of the mind.) How did I learn more about what He loves and what offends Him? I read my Bible and sought insight from other Christian men who have had victory over the war on lust. Over time, a greater understanding of the war at hand gave me the artillery, hope, and strength to get back in the battle to represent the righteousness of the Almighty.

Back on the battlefield, I have a new heart – one that represents Kingdom values. I have a Band of Brothers (other Christian men) who stand by my side and fight the Good Fight with me. They keep me accountable as long as I’m honest with them. Whenever I stray from the pack and think I can fight on my own is usually when I get surrounded in an ambush. I must stick with my brothers! I use scripture from the Bible as my ammunition and this sends the enemy fleeing. Worshipping God has this same effect. It’s like an F-16 strike coming down and clearing the enemy. I must recognize that I am stepping into a lust-filled battlefield (society) everyday. Some days are filled with stainless victories and other days I almost lose a limb. A wise man once told me to “celebrate the inch.” I must concentrate on my victories, not failures. The important thing is to seek God’s help, stick close to my brothers, never surrender to the enemy, and always get back in the fight.

One of the best places i've been thus far is Tilberg, Netherlands. We went and walked the streets Matt and I along with our camera man Brandon Sloter! The sun was out and the streets were packed with people and shops! We stopped at a candy store were they had my favorite gummy bears in the world. HARIBO.. however they were all in small packs so i didn't get any.. but Matt decided to pick up an ice cream cone strawberry/vanilla. It was cold out but he said heenjoys cold things in cold seasons..

ha  

After that we walked to Jack Jones, and HM for jackets.. I tried on a bunch of different pea coats but was un able to pick one. I'm looking for a nice pea coat, if you know of a place let me in on your secret. But what I really wanted to get for tour and home was a fedora.. I LOVE fedoras, and I've had probably 14 in my life time. They all get smashed, or lost... I promised myself if I were to get another that it would be well kept for and legit. So what is a good company for fedoras you ask? BRIXTON. They make great fedoras and just so happens to be a awesome skate shop down the street called Kingdom. So we went there and talked it up with the owner and one of the skaters he endorses there. Turns out the skater a week ago just landed on his chin and gave himself a concussion... He can't skate for 3 weeks.. he also works at a bar but does not drink anymore. I thought to myself.. pretty cool for a guy to work at a bar and not drink anymore.. He seemed really young too.. 

 He said he is probably one of the few who doesn't drink in the Netherlands.. we laughed.

We then played the show which was in front of 1500 kids and it was a blast! My shin didn't act up that night which is a blessing and the crowd was having a blast with all the bands.

After that me and the ghost inside along with living with lions all threw toilet paper at the crowd during A Day To Remembers set... that was hilarious! Singer of living with lions stage dove and fell straight to the ground. He was alright..

After that I ended up getting pizza down the street from some guys who looked like they were from Jersey Shore.. The pizza was delicious! ! Thanks Jersey Shore! :)

Pretty great night. Thanks Netherlands for being a beautiful city and letting me enjoy your culture!

a issue ever in my life. My freshman year, I came into school with a

"good girl" image that I never wanted to destroy, I was always getting

the good grades and dating a great guy. In fact when I came into

college I had just ended a 4 year relationship, I was ready to date

and enjoy college life. Little did I know that my world was about to

be turned upside down! After going to a club meeting I mete a nice guy

and we ate dinner together and then after a week decided to begin

really dating each other. One month later (In October) I was raped by

him in his dorm room.  I continued to date this man for another 9

months in fear, shame, guilt, and lust marking my heart. When I was

raped that image I had in my mind was wiped away! I thought I had to

stay with him because he had taken my purity away. When we were

together, he sometimes forced sex on me, but after a while of dating,

I began to want it as much as he did, which filled me with a

never-ending shame. I lusted over him and anyone else who paid any

attention to me in a "good way".

About 1 month after that relationship ended I mete my future husband

who I told this story to and whom embraced me and loved me more! He

also got to share his own story about lust and his porn issue that he

had a few months before he mete me.Together, we were a mess, but few

years later we would go to a church called Quest Community Church and

they would show the real Jesus we thought we had known our whole

lives. We experienced Jesus for the first time there and my husband

accepted Jesus Feb. 6, 2010 and I gave Jesus my life May 6,2011. The

healing God has given us is indescribable! I got to give Him my lust

and He wiped it away, making me new (Isaiah 43), He made me pure!

Lust used to mark my heart, now Jesus marks my life. I am grateful to

share my story with you and I hope that in sharing it, it brings hope

to those in a hopeless situation.

                                                  Sarah Hall

Forgiveness isn’t easy… nothing of worth is..        

Forgiveness isn’t something you can just do and call it a day, it’s something you’ve truly got to mean. When you don’t forgive, you are holding the pain and hurt and all that builds up inside of you, and that carries further than just a day or two. It’s not meant to be like this. I know people can do some really horrible and damaging things. I’ve been hurt and have hurt others, and it saddens me, but forgiveness is a huge part of surviving. More so, it is so important to God. 

I’ve been lied to and hurt by some very close people in my life… and for years I held that in and wanted to give them just as much pain as they had given me. I was seeing red and I wanted revenge. I wanted to disband them from my life and spit in their faces. I had pure anger and hatred, and you know who’s life it really hurt and effected? Mine. I was holding and bearing this pain all to myself. I was grinding my teeth and mentally beating myself up. I would take it out on everyone I knew. I would start fights in random places, I would drink like a fish and smoke like a chimney, I’d gossip and slander names left and right. I hated life because I was holding on to this pain that had been dwelling inside me for years. It took me years to finally forgive but I did it. I truly did it! I had to make the decision, as we are blessed with free choice. I had started my life with Christ and was growing some much in my spirit and I loved it! I love when God reveals things to me. The way He does sometimes is just taking my blindfold off letting me see just a glimpse of His ways and His path for me. (He couldn’t possibly show me everything, that would be cheating!) But He showed me that the only way I could love this person, and that the only way I could truly live and not let this hold me down, was to forgive the people I needed to. I think I fought God on this one. I didn’t want to; I hated it! I hated to have to forgive someone especially since it wasn’t even MY fault! 

But God said, “Well...I forgive you. Should I not do that?” Wow. You see, if I hadn’t been forgiven by God, I wouldn’t have a relationship with Him, all these wonderful things in my life, plans of a hope and future. He wouldn’t be my father, and I not His son. He was right, of course, and I forgave all those people. I even tried reaching out to others who I needed to ASK for forgiveness from. Holding onto hurt or pain is not of the Kingdom of God. It isn’t what He wants for us. It builds anger and it eventually eats away at our spirit. That is not of God. 

                                  

                                                     "Questions Of A Convicted Sinner"

Written by: Drew Tilley

Seconds, enjoy it while it lasts.  New direction, it's what you promise yourself right after.  But how many times have you broken and remade this proclamation that you're gonna change?  A dedication to the straight and narrow?

Wishful dreams are sentiments forced at gunpoint by guilt.  

False hopes in ways we only hope to live.

 God, I'm here and these are the colors I bleed.  When will I ever get it right?  Will we ever not miss the mark?  Running for righteousness only to find I'm in the same place. (Same place!)

 I consume so much grace that a drunk looks sober; So much mercy are we receiving that the rich look poor.  But we're needy, we're naked, and cold with all we need before us.

 Oh forgetful me, will I ever remember my sword is in the sheath when it's time to fight?  Will I ever stop ignoring the use of my shield as the arrows fly at my heart?

 Questions of a convicted sinner:  Will it ever stop?

Words of a repeat offender:  Will I ever win?

God, I'm drawing a line.  Won't you build me up?

 I utter these words in confession.

Lord, my life is in Your posession.

I quit.