9 Apr, 2008

Guitar glory!

Are you using your abilities for God's glory?

Teen is world 'Guitar Hero'

When it comes to Guitar Hero, a Minnesota teenager is on top of the world -- no strings attached.

Chris Chike, 16, is the Guinness World Record holder for the highest score for a song on the video game "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock."

In New York City, competing against other gamers, Chike, of Rochester, earned 870,647 points -- or 97 percent completion on the Expert Level -- for the song "Through the Fire and Flames" by DragonForce.

"It's like out of this world," the Century High School junior said just after setting the mark on the plastic guitar.

Players hit buttons (there are no strings) while watching a video screen and score points based on how well they keep time with the song.

"Chris' accomplishments are nothing short of amazing," said Guinness World Records judge Doug Parsons, on hand to certify the attempt.

Chike's record-setting effort at the Web2Zone Cyber Center came during Guinness' launch of its Gamer's Edition 2008.

He said in interview with the Rochester Post-Bulletin that he has gotten a higher score playing at home. He also said he used to play four to five hours a day, but not so much anymore because it's not as challenging.

photo & story courtesy startribune.com, 4/6/08

1 Peter 4:10-11

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the abilities God has given us?

Peter is challenging two kinds of people in these verses - those who feel like they have no talents at all and those who think they are talented and can use them any way they want, without regard for others.

God has gifted each of us. Ask Him to help you identify yours and use them to serve Him! We honor Christ when we use our abilities to serve others and not just for our own enjoyment and benefit.

Chris Chike, the 16-year-old, who set the Guinness World Record for "Guitar Hero" is a great example of someone with a lot of God-given ability. (I've played "Guitar Hero" and I know how much eye-to-brain-to-hand coordination it must take to be that good at that video game!)

Each of us must recognize that God has not made us all the same. He never intended to - He loves variety! God planned and designed our differences and unique talents. We must be who He created us to be for His glory and to serve others.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

  • Thank God for His unique way of creating you and everyone with unique talents and abilities. Even if you're not sure of your "special gifts" right now, praise Him because He has gifted you! Ask Him to show you your gifts and how to use them for His glory.
  • Read other passages that give instruction about spiritual gifts and abilities: Romans 12:6-8, 1st Corinthians 12:8-11, and Ephesians 4:11.
  • Pray regularly for God to help you discover your unique gifts and abilities.
  • Ask your youth leader, pastor and Christian friends to help you identify your gifts and abilities.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?

  • Look for opportunities to use your God-given abilities to build friendships with people who need Jesus. God will show you how to learn to know their stories.
  • Play "Guitar Hero" with someone in your storysphere. Afterwards, talk about today's story about the Guinness Word Record holder. Ask your friend or family member about their abilities or point out to them the God-given abilities you see in them. Be ready to share what you've learned in God's Story about using your abilities to bring honor to God.
Permanent Link
comments

Ornament
God's Story is brought to you by Youth for Christ. YFC works with young people on campus and in the community in over one hundred countries around the world so that they might have an opportunity to become a follower of Christ and be a part of a local church.

Our writer, Byron Emmert, has been with YFC for over 30 years and has served as Campus Life Staff, in leadership for DCLA, and as an author and speaker. Byron is available for speaking at youth or adult events and conferences. For booking, write to byron@3Story.org.

Byron and his wife Linda live in Minnesota and their family includes two married sons and daughters-in-law, a grandaughter, and a daughter in college. He loves sports, deep dish pizza, and spending time with his family.