Camp Ridgecrest for Boys

The Main Character

Posted by Karah

Pause

Consider this quote:

“There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves His children and comes to rescue them.”
—Sally Lloyd-Jones in The Jesus Storybook Bible

Think about your favorite book or movie. A writer often uses the first scene or line to give you insight into the main character. What does the first scene tell you about the main character? How? Journal your thoughts below.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” —Genesis 1:1

With that idea in mind, read Genesis 1:1 and Psalm 92 in your Bible.

Look at Genesis 1:1. A story begins with its author, creation with its Creator. How does this verse help to establish God as the main character of His story?

Examine Genesis 1:1 and Psalm 92:14-15. What do these verses tell you about the purpose of the creation account? Is it more about glorifying God or being in awe of what He has made? Explain.

The Point

The story of creation begins—and ends—in our eternal God. It is more about Him than us.

Respond

The Bible doesn’t start with this story so we can be in awe of what God has made; it’s there so we can be in awe of God. Take some time to do that today. Focus your mind on God—not what He has done for you or what He has made—but on Him and who He is. Record your praises as a prayer below.

For further study of God’s eternal nature, read John 1:1, Ephesians 1:4, and Colossians 1:15-17.

Behind the Story

God is the grammatical subject of the first sentence in the Bible—and He continues to be the thematic subject throughout the entire creation account (Gen. 1–2). The recurring phrase “then God said” in Genesis 1:1–2:3 serves to establish Him as the primary actor in creation.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

Retro Friday: Photography

Posted by Karah

Over the last decade, we here at Camp Ridgecrest have taken full advantage of technological advancement. It helps our leadership and staff keep in touch with campers, parents, and alumni in ways that were not possible 50 years ago. Since photography and video have been important to us for a long time, we have really enjoyed the advancements made in those areas. Aerial footage of the camp has quickly become a popular way to keep our camp family involved in all that goes on during the summer and the off season.

Camp’s leadership felt the same way about photography in the 1960’s. It was used as much as possible to document the growth and improvements made to Camp Ridgecrest. Sounds familiar, right? Check out these aerial shots of the camp. Can you find the differences compared to what the aerial footage might show today? Comment below!

Posted in Boys | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Retro Friday | Leave a reply

A Message of Hope

Posted by Karah

Pause

Imagine what the world would look like if everything—including your life—were as it should be. Thank God that He is a God who redeems everything.

We all have a death sentence. Respond to that statement.

Not to be morbid, but that statement is true. Sin has infected our lives and everything in the world. Scripture tells us that creation even groans under the curse of sin. We know that one day all of this will end. Now, read Romans 8:18-25 in your Bible.

“And not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.”

—Romans 8:23,25

In your Bible, underline all the references to hope in this passage. As a believer, that word should stand out to you. As a Christian, you have experienced just a taste of the fullness of God’s redemption, but you can live with hope because you know that you will one day experience all the benefits and blessings of salvation when Christ returns and establishes His Kingdom.

Now, read Romans 8:18-25 again, this time from the perspective of someone who is not a Christian. How would that person respond to this passage? Jot down any words or feelings he or she might think or experience.

The news that everything will one day end is terrifying to those who have no hope. As a Christian, you have been redeemed and can live in light of the future hope of eternity spent with God. But many in the world around you do not have that hope.

Respond

If you knew the world were ending tomorrow, how would you react? Who would you want to know about the hope of an eternal future with God? Write the first few names that come to mind.

List some ways you will share the hope you have in Christ with those people this week. Jot down two of those actions points below.

Pray for a heart that is tender toward the hopeless, so that God can use you to reach those who still walk in darkness.

Behind the Story

Firstfruits is a word that’s often used in Scripture. Generally used to describe the first part of the harvest, which was offered to God as a sacrifice, the word is used to denote a gift of God to His children in Romans 8:23. Christians have the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives as a foretaste of our full inheritance.

The Point

Because we know the future we have with God, we can live with hope in a hopeless world.

Shout it Out

Posted by Karah

Pause

Ask God for opportunities to share God’s grace with others this week.

Think about the things you post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or other social media sites. What are some of the things you are most eager to share? List a few below.

Read and study Psalm 107:1-3. These verses point to something those who have been redeemed by God should be doing. Underline it in your Bible when you find it.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His faithful love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord proclaim that He has redeemed them from the hand of the foe and has gathered them from the lands— from the east and the west, from the north and the south.” —Psalm 107:1-3

Consider these questions:

What do these verses teach you about God’s character?
Why is that good news that the world needs to hear? Explain.
How has God been good to you? List some recent examples of ways you’ve experienced His goodness.

Respond

Those whom God has rescued from sin should always be talking about His goodness. Look over the list you created earlier. Who in your life needs to hear how God has been good to you? Jot down a couple of names below. Commit to share with them this week!
Read Psalm 107 in its entirety. This psalm details four different kinds of people who were in distress, yet God rescued them. Memorize the verses that speak to you.

Behind the Story

As a punishment for their disobedience, God allowed Israel to be taken captive in Babylon (2 Chronicles 36:15-23). But just as He predicted (Isaiah 45:1-7), God raised up a king, Cyrus to set his people free (Isaiah 45:1-17). This psalm specifically refers to God’s deliverance of Israel from the distress in Babylon. His purpose in their redemption was so they could proclaim His goodness. Why does today’s world need to hear about God’s goodness?

The Point

God redeems His people so they may speak of His goodness.

Motivation

Posted by Karah

Pause

Consider this thought: Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because He loves us!

Choose some of the reasons you try to do good works:

Feels good Makes parents happy

Makes God like me Looks good

To help my future To impress someone

Read Titus 2:11-14. These verses outline what the real motivation behind your good works should be. Circle that motivation when you read it.

“He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people for His own possession, eager to do good works.”

—Titus 2:14

Paul explained that the gospel not only gives us eternal life, but also restores us to the original purpose for which we were created: good works which glorify God. We are changed by God’s work—and now free to live completely for God.

Ask yourself:

The word rendered “eager” in verse 14 is sometimes translated “zealous” or “committed.” This reflects a passionate dedication to pursuing the ways of God. How have you seen this principle at work in someone’s life?
Why is God’s grace a better motivator for your obedience than fear? Explain.

Respond

How passionate and committed are you to pursuing the ways of God? Examine your life and your motivation for doing good works. Does it reflect a desire to please God because you know what He has done to save you or are you just following rules?
For further study, read Ephesians 2:1-10. Ask yourself this question: How does the gospel affect the way I live now?

Behind the Story

While Titus 2:1-10 outlines the lifestyle believers are to pursue, verses 11-14 provide the theological basis for it. Because we have experienced God’s grace and redemption, Christians want to live in a way that pleases the Father. That includes renouncing sin, living wisely, and pursuing righteousness. You cannot claim to have received God’s grace if you are not actively learning to walk in His ways.

The Point

We do good works not to earn God’s favor, but because God has redeemed and changed us.

Retro Friday: Lake Ridgecrest

Posted by Karah

Many of the activities that campers look forward to each year revolve around the lake. Blob wars, the rope swing, zip lines, canoeing, paddle boarding, and now the aqua climb are part of what makes camp fun! With the Blue Ridge Mountains set in the background, Lake Ridgecrest is arguably one of the prettiest views around, and has been known for its beautiful scenery since the camp opened in 1929. Most of us have probably even taken a picture by the Lake Ridgecrest sign when we’ve visited in the off season or returned to camp for another summer (Instagram anyone?!)

Even though the blob and the rope swing are staples of Lake Ridgecrest, they haven’t always been around. In fact, the lake use to look a lot different than it does now! The “P dock” was on the side of the lake where the canoes are kept, roping off a swimming area. The pictures shown here are actually even before we had the P dock! Check out what the swimming area use to look like before 1942. This camper is sitting where the water slide comes out today. Do you remember when the lake looked like this? What have been some of your favorite activities in Lake Ridgecrest? Comment below!

Posted in Boys | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Ridgecrest Summer Camps | Leave a reply

Set Free!

Posted by Karah

Pause

Begin your time with God today with a short prayer. Ask the Spirit to soften your heart to whatever God has for you to learn from His Word.

Read and study Colossians 1:11-14. As you read, look for the five benefits Paul listed that God gives to all believers.

List them here.

“He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves. We have redemption, the forgiveness of sins, in Him.” —Colossians 1:13-14

Rescued: Evokes the idea of God delivering His people from an oppressor. Skim over the verses that precede these verses. What is God rescuing His people from here?

Domain of darkness: In Scripture, darkness is often used to symbolize Satan or evil, while light refers to God. How has God rescued us from Satan’s kingdom?

Forgiveness of sins: Forgive literally means “to send away” or “cancel.” In Christ, God completely canceled the debt of our sin. That means we can’t earn God’s forgiveness. In what ways do you find yourself trying to earn His forgiveness or favor? Why?

Respond

Re-read verses 13-14 and ponder the word “transferred.” To be transferred is to move from one place to another. As a Christian, you’ve been transferred from darkness to light, death to life. You have been placed in God’s kingdom when you once lived in the Enemy’s. Examine your life. What examples of this transfer do you see at work in your life? List two or three.
If the examples of God’s light in your life seem dim, prayerfully ask God to search your heart so you can deal with any sin in your life. Confess any sin the Holy Spirit reveals.

Behind the Story

Written around the same time, Colossians shares many similarities to Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians. The primary focus of Colossians is to confront the “Colossian heresy,” false teachings that detracted from Jesus’ supremacy.

The Point

Because God has redeemed you, you are completely forgiven. You no longer have to live in sin’s chains.

Child of the Father

Posted by Karah

Pause

Take a moment and walk outside and look up at the sky. Repeat these words to yourself: I’m a child of God. I’m loved. I’m forgiven. I’m free. When you return, write them down on a note and put it on your bedroom mirror or car dashboard as a helpful reminder.

Think about the difference between being a child and being a slave. In the space provided, sketch the images or list the words that come to mind as you ponder each concept.

Child Slave

Now, read Galatians 4:1-7. Pay special attention to any references to adoption, sons, or heirs.

“So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.”

—Galatians 4:7

What’s the difference between a master/slave relationship and a father/child relationship? What rights or benefits do children have that slaves don’t?
What does it mean to be God’s heir? Why is that important?

Respond

The word “Abba” in verse 6 means “Daddy” and reflects intimacy and tenderness. That’s the kind of relationship God wants to have with His children. Spend some time with your Abba today. Tell Him everything that’s on your mind and pour out your heart as children do with their fathers. Thank Him that sin is no longer who you are. Record your conversation as a letter in the space provided.

Behind the Story

Under Roman law, an adopted child was considered equal to all other biological children in the family. Even if the child had formerly been a slave, if adopted, a son could inherit legal rights to his father’s property. As Christians, we are co-heirs with Jesus with all rights to all of God’s resources.

The Point

God redeemed us from the enslavement of sin and set us free to be His children.

Costly Redemption

Posted by Karah

Pause

Quiet your mind and heart as you prepare to study God’s Word. Listen to a worship song that helps you focus.

Think about your most precious possession. How much is this worth? If someone took it, what would you pay to get it back? Write your response.

Read 1 Peter 1:18-21. In your Bible, underline the words “silver or gold” and “precious blood of Christ.” In the margin, write My value to God.

“For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.”

—1 Peter 1:18-19

Ask yourself:

• What is the “empty way of life” referred to in verse 18? Explain.

• What are some examples of this empty way of life you see in our world today? In your life (past or present)?

• If God has redeemed you from this way of life, He has set you free. You don’t have to live that way anymore. How do you find yourself slipping back into the habits of your before-Christ life sometimes?

Respond

• Re-read 1 Peter 1:18-19. What would change about the way you think about yourself if you fully grasped your worth to God? He purchased your freedom from sin with the highest treasure: Jesus’ own life. How would living in the power of this truth change your daily life? Jot down a few ideas.

• Look at the list of “empty ways of life” you sometimes find yourself slipping back into. Pray over them, asking God to help you better understand the price He paid to set you free from their bondage. List two actions you’ll take this week to walk away from these things.

Behind the Story

In some translations of 1 Peter 1:18, the word “ransom” is used rather than redeem. A ransom is paid for the release of a captive, a concept that would have been familiar to Peter’s first century audience. Slaves could sometimes pay a ransom and be released from their master. God released us from slavery to sin at a costly price: Jesus’ death.

The Point

God redeemed His people with the highest currency of Heaven: Jesus’ blood.

Over and Above

Posted by Karah

Pause

Take some time and ponder this quote from Josh McDowell:

“If Jesus Christ was who He claimed to be, and He did die on a cross at a point of time in history, then, for all history past and all history future it is relevant because that is the very focal point for forgiveness and redemption.”

It’s not uncommon to hear about professional athletes having to pay enormous fines for bad behavior. Read Ephesians 1:7-10. How big is the penalty for our sin against God? What price did God pay to buy us back?

“We have redemption in Him through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

—Ephesians 1:7-8

Redemption: “Bought back;” carries the idea of being released from slavery. How is sin slavery?

Through His blood: It is through Jesus’ death—in our place—on the cross that God frees us from sin and its power. This redemption was costly. Have you ever minimized the cost of God’s redemption? Why?

Lavished: To give something extravagant or be exceptionally generous. In Christ, God has shown us abundant and extravagant grace. Understanding the enormity of what God has freely done for you, what words would you use to praise Him?

Respond

Take some time to reflect on your words of praise for God’s lavish grace toward sinners. Toward you. By giving His Son, God secured your forgiveness from sin. Journal a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for your salvation.

Behind the Story

In the Old Testament, it was required that an innocent animal had to be sacrificed to atone for the sins of the people. This pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the “innocent Lamb” whose blood would atone for the sins of those who believe. This reminds us that God’s forgiveness might come freely, but it did not come cheaply. God, in His holiness, cannot “wink” at sin. Justice demands that restitution (full payment) must be made.

The Point

Salvation may be a free gift, but it isn’t cheap. God paid a great price to buy us back from sin

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OUR PADDLES

I know you miss camp. Since you can't be with us, we want to bring a little Camp Ridgecrest to you each week. Here you will find weekly devotions to remind you of what you learned about God; news, pictures, and videos of camp as we make improvements or just do something ridiculous; and even some posts from the road as we travel to see you and your friends! We will update you a few times a week, so check back often!
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