Faith First

Matt Numrich here, and I just wanted to touch on this topic quickly, and then you can get back to surfing the site. I’ve written quite a bit on JKD. As you may or may not know I’ve had the blessing of being published in several international martial arts magazines. I’ve also written a 160+ page manuscript on JKD, which literally took me over five years to write. I’ve also written the scripts to several DVDs on self-defense training… so why am I bringing this up? Because JKD / self-defense is such a huge part of my life. It is my hobby, my business, and a vehicle which has connected me to so many people around the world (most valuable to me are those students I now consider my friends).

My point is that I write a lot about what I find important – so I couldn’t pass up writing on my faith. First off, let me say that I respect all religions and faiths.If you join up with my classes or view one of my DVDs I don’t shove my faith down your throat. However because this is my company I also want to exercise my right to state what I believe. If anyone knows only a little about me, they do know that my faith, church, and relationship with God is a top priority. Because I don’t go preaching around my classes or on my products, a lot of people ask about my faith. Therefore, I’ll take two minutes of your time to explain what I don’t outwardly state in my classes or on my multi media products.

To keep it short and simple, I am a Christian, which means I follow Christ – Jesus Christ. People need to understand that Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist and the like are not religions, they are denominations of the same Christian religion. My relationship with God is involved in every facet of my life: my health, business, marriage, etc. Although I’ve had (and continue to have) a great life, I’ve had my share of challenges as well. I take a look at many of my friends and acquaintances I grew up with, who had more talent, intelligence, and opportunities than I did- who are now leading a below average life. So why am I so “lucky” with a thriving business, totally exciting marriage, an incredible child, tons of energy, and a feeling of peace?… Well it is not my doing.

I owe everything to God, and the relationship I have with him. Don’t get me wrong, I have to do my part, and work for what I have. However, I’ve also done a lot to screw up what I’ve been given. My business has taken a nose dive, my marriage has had challenges, I’ve not stayed dedicated to my health, and I’ve let fear, anger, and distrust throw my life in chaos. But, God has never forsaken me… he has never forgotten about me, even when I have forgotten about him.

Why does he do this? Well, it comes back to Jesus Christ. God sent his Son to die for my sins – and yours. God does not punish us, and our good deeds won’t earn us a place in heaven. So how do you get to heaven, and how do you get your life in balance? One word, faith, put faith first. I know by experience that Faith is the one thing that has kept me afloat, and has lead to me living a more fulfilling life than many of my more talented and intelligent past friends. You can guarantee a place in heaven by believing, opening up to God through asking for forgiveness, and knowing that Jesus gave His life for you. How and when can you do this? You can do it right now by praying this little prayer – wherever you are:

Dear God, I know I have been lost. I’ve let little things become big things, and bad things rule my life. I ask that you forgive my sins, and I accept you into my heart. I know that I cannot buy or work myself into heaven, it is a gift from you, available here and now. I do not have all of the answers on how to fix my life, and I put my trust in you to guide me to live the life you want me to lead. Amen.

This is not a bunch of magical words – so now you can start living an even more sinful life than you have been. The little prayer you just read, if read with your heart, is a start. Even if you are semi-serious about living a better life, and anyhow concerned about eternal life (life after you die), I want you to pray this prayer with your heart twice a day for a week. Email me your experience after that week.

I also want to make myself available regardless of what your experiences are, have been, or think they will be. Many times “religion” gets a bad rap, as people think every religion is the occult. More so, Christians get stigmatized as always being judgmental. I hope you judge for yourself. I don’t have all of the answers, but I swear that this is the most important area of your life. You could have the best family, best job, tons of wealth, fame, and power – but if you don’t have God you don’t have anything. I’m not trying to pass judgment on anyone – because I’m a sinner just like you – but this is the truth: Jesus will change your life. Please email me through the instructors page, with any sincere questions. Put “Faith First” in the subject line, and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

In the meanwhile, God Bless, and take care.

Sincerely,

Matt