Do you need God to make a way out of no way? The swiftness and surety of your deliverance starts with how you respond to hard times and difficult situations. Hear me when I say that it is not just enough to thank God and honor Him only when you've received a blessing. God wants you to show the extent of your faithfulness and trust in Him even in the midst of going through a challenge. The power of your praise will determine the magnitude of your breakthrough.
Praise is not just clapping your hands or applauding God. It is showing respect, honor, and gratefulness using your whole heart, mind, spirit and body despite your circumstances. Paul and Silas didn't wait until they experienced a breakthrough to praise and thank God. In the midst of difficult circumstances, they praised God and received the breakthrough they desired.
Acts 16:25, 26 (New Living Translation) reveals, "Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!"
Paul and Silas praised God even when their backs were bleeding and their feet and hands were in chains. Despite the pain and suffering they were going through, they praised God anyway; and as a result, God shook the very foundations of the prison, setting them free. God will shake the foundation of your prison; your bondage, your problem...if you make a decision to praise and give Him thanks, no matter what.
Praising God should become second-nature for all Believers. "This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the Lord" (Psalm 102:18). We were created to praise God, and it becomes a natural expression of your love for the Father when you spend time in the Word and meditate on His goodness.
When you have a heart for God and you know He loves you, your confidence in His ability to deliver you soars. You know help is on the way and you eagerly anticipate it. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages, "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus" (NLT). God doesn't tell you to thank Him for negative circumstances; He says to thank Him while you're in the midst of them. Doing this shows that you trust Him to bring you out.
The storms of life are going to come; but don't let them disturb your peace and affect your thoughts and emotions. This will only move you into self-pity and frustration. Instead, maintain an attitude of praise.
Your first line of defense is the Word of God. Meditate on it and give it life by speaking it over your circumstances. If you need healing meditate on scriptures that reveal God's ability to heal. Receive that Word in your spirit and begin praising God for your healing.
The Word of God declares, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7, NIV).
When you are in a situation and there seems to be no way out, open your mouth and praise the Lord-and don't stop. Instead of crying and complaining, give God praise because you know He has a plan for you that includes deliverance, restoration and peace. Thank Him for His goodness because your praise will stop the enemy and move the hand of God
When your deliverance comes, continue to praise Him because He has more in store for you. Thank Him for breakthrough in your home, on your job and with your children. Through your authority in Jesus, place a demand on your breakthrough and watch God show up in your life in ways you would have never imagined
Friday, March 26, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
Do You Really Believe It? By: Alan Riley
Dr. Howard Hendricks used to tell his Seminary students that when he listened to most preachers preach, he wanted to interrupt them and say, "You know, I don't think you really believe what you are preaching." He said when they assured him they did believe it, he would then keep on goading them until finally they cried out with great passion, "Yes I do! I REALLY do believe this with all my heart!!!"
Hendricks says then he would sit back down and say, "Great. NOW tell us about it!"
Dr. Hendricks makes a great point. Sometimes we come across as not fully believing what we proclaim. Sometimes we don't "practice what we preach" as my grandmother used to say.
We say that we speak for a God Who is over all and knows all and is in all, yet we frequently don't behave as if we are Children of the King. We say that our Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills, yet somehow His church has trouble coming up with operating expenses.
As we continue to hear depressing economic news every week, many of us have bought into it. Over the past year or so, I have heard a lot of church folks talk about how the crisis on Wall Street is affecting the way people are tithing and consequently the way churches are allocating funds. I've heard several conversations where people are scared that their ministry would fall victim to the hard times we appear to be heading toward.
Something doesn't add up here, folks.
I have a question for you: Has the current economic situation changed God? Is He less able than He was a few weeks ago? No! In fact, God knew this was coming. The drop in the Dow Jones average didn't catch God off guard. And I am certain there is no in Heaven, and that God will continue to provide for us to do what He guides us to undertake!
If we really believe what we have been preaching all this time, this is not a time for the church to fold under the economic realities of the day! If God is our Source - and He is - and if God is leading us to do something, then we need to know that He will provide for it.
We need to practice what we preach!
Hendricks says then he would sit back down and say, "Great. NOW tell us about it!"
Dr. Hendricks makes a great point. Sometimes we come across as not fully believing what we proclaim. Sometimes we don't "practice what we preach" as my grandmother used to say.
We say that we speak for a God Who is over all and knows all and is in all, yet we frequently don't behave as if we are Children of the King. We say that our Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills, yet somehow His church has trouble coming up with operating expenses.
As we continue to hear depressing economic news every week, many of us have bought into it. Over the past year or so, I have heard a lot of church folks talk about how the crisis on Wall Street is affecting the way people are tithing and consequently the way churches are allocating funds. I've heard several conversations where people are scared that their ministry would fall victim to the hard times we appear to be heading toward.
Something doesn't add up here, folks.
I have a question for you: Has the current economic situation changed God? Is He less able than He was a few weeks ago? No! In fact, God knew this was coming. The drop in the Dow Jones average didn't catch God off guard. And I am certain there is no in Heaven, and that God will continue to provide for us to do what He guides us to undertake!
If we really believe what we have been preaching all this time, this is not a time for the church to fold under the economic realities of the day! If God is our Source - and He is - and if God is leading us to do something, then we need to know that He will provide for it.
We need to practice what we preach!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Just Do It!
For he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven... by the wind...
James 1:6 NKJV
The Bible says, 'for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.' (James 1:6-8 NKJV)). This Scripture applies specifically to asking God for wisdom, then rationalising and vacillating when He gives you an answer. But the same principle applies to all of life. Have you ever seen anything more fickle than a wave? The wind that takes it one direction today, takes it in an entirely different one tomorrow. 'How does this apply to me?' you ask:
1) if you've grown up in a family where every decision was made for you 2) if you spent your life around people who made reckless decisions that left you feeling 'it's too easy to get it wrong and too hard to get it right' 3) if the bad decisions you've made in the past have sabotaged your confidence; then today's devotion is just for you!
James makes the point that none of us learn to hear from God without making mistakes. So don't be hard on yourself. Learn from your mistakes, correct the ones you can, and continue being decisive. Don't fall back into a pattern of indecision because you got it wrong a few times. Often you'll only know that you've done the right thing; when you do it! Devote a reasonable amount of time to waiting on God, and when necessary seek the counsel of others. But don't be afraid to act; make a decision and follow through with it. In other words, 'just do it!'
James 1:6 NKJV
The Bible says, 'for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.' (James 1:6-8 NKJV)). This Scripture applies specifically to asking God for wisdom, then rationalising and vacillating when He gives you an answer. But the same principle applies to all of life. Have you ever seen anything more fickle than a wave? The wind that takes it one direction today, takes it in an entirely different one tomorrow. 'How does this apply to me?' you ask:
1) if you've grown up in a family where every decision was made for you 2) if you spent your life around people who made reckless decisions that left you feeling 'it's too easy to get it wrong and too hard to get it right' 3) if the bad decisions you've made in the past have sabotaged your confidence; then today's devotion is just for you!
James makes the point that none of us learn to hear from God without making mistakes. So don't be hard on yourself. Learn from your mistakes, correct the ones you can, and continue being decisive. Don't fall back into a pattern of indecision because you got it wrong a few times. Often you'll only know that you've done the right thing; when you do it! Devote a reasonable amount of time to waiting on God, and when necessary seek the counsel of others. But don't be afraid to act; make a decision and follow through with it. In other words, 'just do it!'
Friday, February 26, 2010
Overcoming Your Fear Of People (1)
Be not afraid of their faces...
Jeremiah 1:8 KJV
Do you avoid certain activities and social occasions because of insecurity? If so, you might have 'social phobia,' the fear of being inadequate, embarrassed or negatively evaluated. Some of us even experience panic attacks that leave us immobilised to the point of dysfunction. Yet it's avoiding such situations rather than facing them, that allows our fears to control us. How great our fear becomes depends on what we say to ourselves when it hits. And what we say to ourselves is largely a function of what psychologists call our 'sub-personality type.' Here are some common sub-personality types, and ways we can handle them:
'The Worrier.' Worriers anticipate the worst, create grandiose images of potential tragedy, and are always hyper-vigilant for any small signs of trouble. Their favourite self-talk expression is, 'But what if… ?' Learn to replace your worrier self-talk with, 'So, what if… By God's grace I can learn to handle this. I can feel anxious and still do it. I don't like it, but I can stand it until it passes. I'll get used to it with practice and God's help.' When Jeremiah's fears kicked in and he wanted to run from a public speaking assignment, God said to him: 'you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you… ' (Jeremiah 1:7-8 NLT). Instead of running from it, choose to face it in faith; and watch how God will get you through it!
Jeremiah 1:8 KJV
Do you avoid certain activities and social occasions because of insecurity? If so, you might have 'social phobia,' the fear of being inadequate, embarrassed or negatively evaluated. Some of us even experience panic attacks that leave us immobilised to the point of dysfunction. Yet it's avoiding such situations rather than facing them, that allows our fears to control us. How great our fear becomes depends on what we say to ourselves when it hits. And what we say to ourselves is largely a function of what psychologists call our 'sub-personality type.' Here are some common sub-personality types, and ways we can handle them:
'The Worrier.' Worriers anticipate the worst, create grandiose images of potential tragedy, and are always hyper-vigilant for any small signs of trouble. Their favourite self-talk expression is, 'But what if… ?' Learn to replace your worrier self-talk with, 'So, what if… By God's grace I can learn to handle this. I can feel anxious and still do it. I don't like it, but I can stand it until it passes. I'll get used to it with practice and God's help.' When Jeremiah's fears kicked in and he wanted to run from a public speaking assignment, God said to him: 'you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you… ' (Jeremiah 1:7-8 NLT). Instead of running from it, choose to face it in faith; and watch how God will get you through it!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Keep Preparing Yourself
I have seen a son of Jesse... who is skillful... 1 Samuel 16:18 NKJV
David didn't suddenly become an expert marksman with a slingshot when Goliath showed up, or a master harpist when King Saul invited him to the palace. He took the long, slow, disciplined route. David had no idea what his future held, he simply found joy and fulfillment in discovering and developing his gifts. Your greatest obstacle to personal growth isn't ignorance; it's the illusion of knowledge. It's in believing you've 'arrived.' When that happens you're done growing, which means you're done! Which zone do you live in? The challenge zone: 'I attempt to do what I haven't done before.' The comfort zone: 'I only do what I already know I can do.' The coasting zone: 'I don't even do what I've done before.' Phillips Brooks said, 'Sad is the day for any man when he becomes absolutely satisfied with the life he is living, the thoughts he is thinking, and the things he is doing; when there ceases to be forever beating at the doors of his soul a desire to do something larger which he seeks and knows he was meant and intended to do.'
David's brothers knew his skills, yet none of them told King Saul about him. Be encouraged; you'll get there without them! 'Then one of [Saul's] servants… said, "Look, I have seen a son of Jesse… who is skilful in playing, a mighty man of valour… "' (1 Samuel 16:18 NKJV)David didn't compete with his brothers or complain about his status as a sheepherder. He just kept developing his relationship with God and sharpening his skills, and when the time was right God promoted him. So, keep preparing yourself.
David didn't suddenly become an expert marksman with a slingshot when Goliath showed up, or a master harpist when King Saul invited him to the palace. He took the long, slow, disciplined route. David had no idea what his future held, he simply found joy and fulfillment in discovering and developing his gifts. Your greatest obstacle to personal growth isn't ignorance; it's the illusion of knowledge. It's in believing you've 'arrived.' When that happens you're done growing, which means you're done! Which zone do you live in? The challenge zone: 'I attempt to do what I haven't done before.' The comfort zone: 'I only do what I already know I can do.' The coasting zone: 'I don't even do what I've done before.' Phillips Brooks said, 'Sad is the day for any man when he becomes absolutely satisfied with the life he is living, the thoughts he is thinking, and the things he is doing; when there ceases to be forever beating at the doors of his soul a desire to do something larger which he seeks and knows he was meant and intended to do.'
David's brothers knew his skills, yet none of them told King Saul about him. Be encouraged; you'll get there without them! 'Then one of [Saul's] servants… said, "Look, I have seen a son of Jesse… who is skilful in playing, a mighty man of valour… "' (1 Samuel 16:18 NKJV)David didn't compete with his brothers or complain about his status as a sheepherder. He just kept developing his relationship with God and sharpening his skills, and when the time was right God promoted him. So, keep preparing yourself.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
The Great Exchange
God made him... to be sin for us...
2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV
The Bible says: 1) 'You must not steal' (Exodus 20:15 TLB). Ever stolen anything? a paper clip, a parking space, the credit for someone else's idea? 2) 'You must not lie' (Exodus 20:16 TLB). You say you haven't - you just did. 3) 'You must not commit adultery' (Exodus 20:14 TLB) Jesus said if you look at someone with lust, you've committed adultery in your heart (Matthew 5:28); ouch! 4) 'You must not murder' (Exodus 20:13 TLB). Before you claim innocence, remember that Jesus equates anger with murder. 'anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder… ' (Matthew 5:22 TM). We assassinate a dozen drivers on our way to work every morning. Bad news: on your best day, you still fall far short of the divine standard required to get into heaven. Good news: 'He was wounded for our transgressions… The chastisement for our peace was upon Him… ' (Isaiah 53:5NKJV). A Chinese convert to Christianity understood this. Before her baptism the pastor asked her a question to ensure she understood the meaning of the cross: 'Did Jesus have any sin?' 'Yes,' she replied. Troubled, he repeated the question. 'Yes, He had sin,' she answered again. The pastor set out to correct her, but she insisted, 'He had mine.' And she was right! 'God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become [righteous in God's eyes].' This is the great exchange. The holy and the vile change places. God makes right what was wrong, and straight what was crooked. Aren't you glad?
2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV
The Bible says: 1) 'You must not steal' (Exodus 20:15 TLB). Ever stolen anything? a paper clip, a parking space, the credit for someone else's idea? 2) 'You must not lie' (Exodus 20:16 TLB). You say you haven't - you just did. 3) 'You must not commit adultery' (Exodus 20:14 TLB) Jesus said if you look at someone with lust, you've committed adultery in your heart (Matthew 5:28); ouch! 4) 'You must not murder' (Exodus 20:13 TLB). Before you claim innocence, remember that Jesus equates anger with murder. 'anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder… ' (Matthew 5:22 TM). We assassinate a dozen drivers on our way to work every morning. Bad news: on your best day, you still fall far short of the divine standard required to get into heaven. Good news: 'He was wounded for our transgressions… The chastisement for our peace was upon Him… ' (Isaiah 53:5NKJV). A Chinese convert to Christianity understood this. Before her baptism the pastor asked her a question to ensure she understood the meaning of the cross: 'Did Jesus have any sin?' 'Yes,' she replied. Troubled, he repeated the question. 'Yes, He had sin,' she answered again. The pastor set out to correct her, but she insisted, 'He had mine.' And she was right! 'God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become [righteous in God's eyes].' This is the great exchange. The holy and the vile change places. God makes right what was wrong, and straight what was crooked. Aren't you glad?
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Thoughts On Marriage
A man shall... be joined to his wife...
Genesis 2:24 NKJV
'And the LORD God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper… ' (Genesis 2:18 NKJV). God gave Eve one basic responsibility - to help Adam. As a husband, you bear the primary responsibility for the home. When Eve ate the forbidden fruit, 'God called to Adam… "Where are you?"' (Genesis 3:9 NKJV) Adam was held responsible for the breakdown.
Here's another thought. Before God gave Adam a wife he gave him a job, and specific instructions to obey 'the LORD God took the man and put him in… Eden to tend… it… God commanded… "you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat… "' (Genesis 2:15-17NKJV). Don't mess with a guy who doesn't want to work for a living, or obey God. Furthermore, if he tells you, 'I don't need you,' run! The whole idea of creating Eve was that Adam needed her. Until someone can say, 'I'm incomplete without you,' they're not ready for marriage. Marriage is a big decision, so allow God to help you make the right one. 'the LORD God… brought her to the man.' (Genesis 2:22 NKJV). As a single person your options are: live an immoral lifestyle, marry a non-believer, or wait for God to give you the right mate.
And one final thought: 'a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.' Genesis 2:24 (NKJV). This verse is read at almost every wedding. The problem is, most of us don't think about what we're promising. It means breaking all other ties and giving yourself totally to your mate. Rather than working them into your life, it's building your life around them. The word 'cleave' means to stick like glue through bad times and good, and to commit to loving and caring for each other.
Genesis 2:24 NKJV
'And the LORD God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper… ' (Genesis 2:18 NKJV). God gave Eve one basic responsibility - to help Adam. As a husband, you bear the primary responsibility for the home. When Eve ate the forbidden fruit, 'God called to Adam… "Where are you?"' (Genesis 3:9 NKJV) Adam was held responsible for the breakdown.
Here's another thought. Before God gave Adam a wife he gave him a job, and specific instructions to obey 'the LORD God took the man and put him in… Eden to tend… it… God commanded… "you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat… "' (Genesis 2:15-17NKJV). Don't mess with a guy who doesn't want to work for a living, or obey God. Furthermore, if he tells you, 'I don't need you,' run! The whole idea of creating Eve was that Adam needed her. Until someone can say, 'I'm incomplete without you,' they're not ready for marriage. Marriage is a big decision, so allow God to help you make the right one. 'the LORD God… brought her to the man.' (Genesis 2:22 NKJV). As a single person your options are: live an immoral lifestyle, marry a non-believer, or wait for God to give you the right mate.
And one final thought: 'a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.' Genesis 2:24 (NKJV). This verse is read at almost every wedding. The problem is, most of us don't think about what we're promising. It means breaking all other ties and giving yourself totally to your mate. Rather than working them into your life, it's building your life around them. The word 'cleave' means to stick like glue through bad times and good, and to commit to loving and caring for each other.
Monday, February 8, 2010
The Spiritual Test By: Dr. Michael Youssef
We can all remember our school days when we were faced with exams. We spent all day in school-and still we panicked when it came to test time.
Why? Perhaps it's because our time in the classroom was only one part of the learning process. The other part was time at home engaging with the material through homework, worksheets, and flashcards-all designed to prepare us for exams and to make sure we had a grasp of the material and were headed in the right direction.
The exam brought panic because it was the culmination of all of our hard work and the measure of our direction and mastery of the material.
These exams and tests were for our benefit. They measured our growth, highlighted our strengths and weaknesses, and guided us to the paths we should take. The same is true of our spiritual lives. We face tests and exams on a spiritual level, but they count for greater consequences because the results of these tests are indicators of our eternal future.
We must examine ourselves with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and always be ready to be tested. Always being ready for exams is foundational to a positive life in Christ. Throughout 2 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul wrote about all that God taught him and what gave him power to live positively in Christ in the midst of fear, trepidation, imprisonment, and flogging.
In his conclusion to this letter he says, "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!" (2 Corinthians 13:5, NASB).
The Corinthians of old fell into the trap that some of our modern educators have fallen into today. If students are not keeping up and succeeding in school, some believe that the standards must be too high-so they lower the standards. The problem is that lowering the standards and changing the curriculum doesn't insist on accountability.
When we refuse to examine ourselves on a regular basis we are taking God's grace and salvation for granted. But don't miss the fabulous news: In this test that the Bible talks about, we can be always a success. Even those who fail the test can succeed.
If you examine yourself on a daily basis and find that you are in the faith, then you will be overjoyed by His grace and mercy and will give God the glory. But if you examine yourself and find that you have moved away from the truth, then God has given you an engraved invitation to repent and to return to the truth.
God promised in His Word to receive anyone who turns to Him. The moment you come face to face with the reality that you have departed from the faith by sinning gravely and you repent, God in His grace and mercy receives you. He embraces you. He forgives you. He restores you. You are, again, overjoyed by His grace and mercy and give God the glory.
Either way, God is glorified. Examine yourself.
Why? Perhaps it's because our time in the classroom was only one part of the learning process. The other part was time at home engaging with the material through homework, worksheets, and flashcards-all designed to prepare us for exams and to make sure we had a grasp of the material and were headed in the right direction.
The exam brought panic because it was the culmination of all of our hard work and the measure of our direction and mastery of the material.
These exams and tests were for our benefit. They measured our growth, highlighted our strengths and weaknesses, and guided us to the paths we should take. The same is true of our spiritual lives. We face tests and exams on a spiritual level, but they count for greater consequences because the results of these tests are indicators of our eternal future.
We must examine ourselves with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and always be ready to be tested. Always being ready for exams is foundational to a positive life in Christ. Throughout 2 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul wrote about all that God taught him and what gave him power to live positively in Christ in the midst of fear, trepidation, imprisonment, and flogging.
In his conclusion to this letter he says, "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!" (2 Corinthians 13:5, NASB).
The Corinthians of old fell into the trap that some of our modern educators have fallen into today. If students are not keeping up and succeeding in school, some believe that the standards must be too high-so they lower the standards. The problem is that lowering the standards and changing the curriculum doesn't insist on accountability.
When we refuse to examine ourselves on a regular basis we are taking God's grace and salvation for granted. But don't miss the fabulous news: In this test that the Bible talks about, we can be always a success. Even those who fail the test can succeed.
If you examine yourself on a daily basis and find that you are in the faith, then you will be overjoyed by His grace and mercy and will give God the glory. But if you examine yourself and find that you have moved away from the truth, then God has given you an engraved invitation to repent and to return to the truth.
God promised in His Word to receive anyone who turns to Him. The moment you come face to face with the reality that you have departed from the faith by sinning gravely and you repent, God in His grace and mercy receives you. He embraces you. He forgives you. He restores you. You are, again, overjoyed by His grace and mercy and give God the glory.
Either way, God is glorified. Examine yourself.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
When Your Faith Feels Shaky (2)
Reach out... Stop doubting and believe. John 20:27 NIV
New Christians aren't the only ones who struggle with doubt; sometimes seasoned believers do too. One Christian author calls them "doubt-storms… turbulent days when the enemy's too big, the task too great, the future too bleak… and the answers too few." Thomas said, "Unless I… put my finger where the nails were… I will not believe… (John 20:25 NIV). Jesus said "Reach out your hand… Stop doubting and believe" (John 20:27 NIV). Thomas asks the question we all ask when we're struggling, "If God is so good, why do I feel so bad? If His message is so clear, why am I confused? If He's in control, why do good people wrestle with gut-wrenching problems?"… You'd rather be a cynic than a hypocrite, so you… pray with one eye open and wonder… about starving children… the power of prayer… the depth of grace… Christians in cancer wards… and who you are to ask such questions anyway.
Elisabeth Elliot said, "True faith only goes into operation when there are no answers." God says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways… (Isaiah 55:8 NKJV). The truth is, God doesn't think like us. He sees the big picture and works toward a specific end.
In a conversation with His disciples Jesus said, "I have many more things to say… but they are too much for you now" (John 16:12 NCV). When you find yourself doubting and questioning God, pray: "Lord, believing isn't easy when I'm hurt and confused, and You are silent. Like Thomas, I want proof that You love me. Help me see beyond my desire for peace and comfort, beyond my doubts and unanswered questions, and grasp the truth of Your unfailing love and grace."
New Christians aren't the only ones who struggle with doubt; sometimes seasoned believers do too. One Christian author calls them "doubt-storms… turbulent days when the enemy's too big, the task too great, the future too bleak… and the answers too few." Thomas said, "Unless I… put my finger where the nails were… I will not believe… (John 20:25 NIV). Jesus said "Reach out your hand… Stop doubting and believe" (John 20:27 NIV). Thomas asks the question we all ask when we're struggling, "If God is so good, why do I feel so bad? If His message is so clear, why am I confused? If He's in control, why do good people wrestle with gut-wrenching problems?"… You'd rather be a cynic than a hypocrite, so you… pray with one eye open and wonder… about starving children… the power of prayer… the depth of grace… Christians in cancer wards… and who you are to ask such questions anyway.
Elisabeth Elliot said, "True faith only goes into operation when there are no answers." God says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways… (Isaiah 55:8 NKJV). The truth is, God doesn't think like us. He sees the big picture and works toward a specific end.
In a conversation with His disciples Jesus said, "I have many more things to say… but they are too much for you now" (John 16:12 NCV). When you find yourself doubting and questioning God, pray: "Lord, believing isn't easy when I'm hurt and confused, and You are silent. Like Thomas, I want proof that You love me. Help me see beyond my desire for peace and comfort, beyond my doubts and unanswered questions, and grasp the truth of Your unfailing love and grace."
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Ardyss International
Ardyss International is an old company that offers a new opportunity. Ardyss was started in Mexico in 1989 by the Diaz de Leon Family. In May of 2007, Ardyss International relocated their corporate headquarters to Las Vegas, Nevada and changed from a direct sales model to a network marketing business model.
This change opened the door for thousands of people to be a part of a life-changing network marketing opportunity and presents the chance for them to build a successful home-based business.
Today, Ardyss does business in the United States, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Mexico with more than 40 distribution centers worldwide. Ardyss is a leader in the Health and Wellness Industry with their ongoing product research and development staff of engineers and doctors. Ardyss has combined the best of industries: Nutrition, Skin Care and Reshaping.
The Ardyss nutritional products have been developed with the health-conscious consumer in mind. Ardyss helps people internally with great nutritional products, one of them being a beverage called Le'Vive juice. It has the world's top 5 antioxidant-producing "super fruits" concentrated in one bottle: Pomegranate, Goji, Acai Berry, which is the same berry that Oprah has flown in from Brazil, Noni, and Mangosteen. It aids in weight-loss and has several other health benefits such as maintaining a healthy blood pressure, controlling diabetes, lowering cholesterol, and preventing cancer.
Ardyss has strategic alliances with world-class enterprises. The Ardyss Skin Care line is made by the same company that manufactures Estee Lauder's skin care collection. And, the makers of MAC Cosmetics produce Ardyss' line of makeup. Therefore, a consumer can be sure they are still getting a high-quality product even if they aren't familiar with the Ardyss name, yet.
All of the Ardyss reshaping garments are medical-grade garments. The Ardyss Reshaping line was designed by an orthopedic surgeon, so not only do they approve appearance, but they have tremendous health benefits, as well. Ardyss has garments for both women and men.
For women, Ardyss has a complete line of body reshaping garments that help restore the shape of the body. What these garments do is called "Lipo Transportation." That means it moves the fatty tissue in the body from where it is to the places it's supposed to be. On a woman's body, there are only two places where fat tissue is necessary: the breasts and buttocks.
The Ardyss Body Magic, their flagship reshaping garment, addresses every problem area on a woman's body, in that it flattens the tummy, lifts the breasts, reshapes the legs, lifts and reshapes the buttocks, straightens the back and pulls the shoulders back to correct posture, giving a woman the shape and posture she had in her younger years. This garment will allow women to drop 2 to 3 dress sizes in minutes. But when worn over time, it will reshape the body through weight and inches lost.
It is important to note that the Body Magic is not a girdle, but a body reshaper. Meaning, if a woman will wear her Body Magic on a regular basis, her body will begin to take on the shape it's in when it is inside the garment. Liken it to Jell-O and a mold. Any time you put Jell-O in a mold, it will take on the shape of the mold that you put it in. In regards to a woman's body and the Body Magic body shaper, the same rules apply. A woman's body is the Jell-O, and the Body Magic is the mold.
If a person wishes to take advantage of the network marketing side of Ardyss International, they may join one of three ways. Start-up costs with Ardyss range from a $30 Membership, a $150 Autoship, to a $299 custom Power Pack. All three ways to enroll will be plus tax and shipping costs of the new distributor kit.
There are several Ardyss distributors earning significant incomes within the first three to six months of starting their Ardyss business, putting them on pace to earn well over six-figures a year in their first year of business...and for several others, seven-figures a year in their first year! That is highly unheard of in network marketing for that level of income to be reached so quickly, but it's happening everyday in Ardyss International because of their rewarding compensation plan.
As it is well-known, network marketing has created many millionaires in the past. It is no different with Ardyss International. Their solid compensation plan has laid the groundwork to allow a person to recoup their initial investment very quickly and make a substantial income.
The Ardyss products are solid in that they are affordable for the average person and gives them instant results, which could make this opportunity very appealing to those who take a closer look.
Even though Ardyss International has been around for nearly twenty years, it is still a ground-floor opportunity for anyone interested in growing a solid home-based business.
If anyone is looking for a ground-floor opportunity, a strong compensation plan, phenomenal products, and strong leadership, Ardyss International deserves a deeper consideration for those searching for a home-based business.
This change opened the door for thousands of people to be a part of a life-changing network marketing opportunity and presents the chance for them to build a successful home-based business.
Today, Ardyss does business in the United States, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Mexico with more than 40 distribution centers worldwide. Ardyss is a leader in the Health and Wellness Industry with their ongoing product research and development staff of engineers and doctors. Ardyss has combined the best of industries: Nutrition, Skin Care and Reshaping.
The Ardyss nutritional products have been developed with the health-conscious consumer in mind. Ardyss helps people internally with great nutritional products, one of them being a beverage called Le'Vive juice. It has the world's top 5 antioxidant-producing "super fruits" concentrated in one bottle: Pomegranate, Goji, Acai Berry, which is the same berry that Oprah has flown in from Brazil, Noni, and Mangosteen. It aids in weight-loss and has several other health benefits such as maintaining a healthy blood pressure, controlling diabetes, lowering cholesterol, and preventing cancer.
Ardyss has strategic alliances with world-class enterprises. The Ardyss Skin Care line is made by the same company that manufactures Estee Lauder's skin care collection. And, the makers of MAC Cosmetics produce Ardyss' line of makeup. Therefore, a consumer can be sure they are still getting a high-quality product even if they aren't familiar with the Ardyss name, yet.
All of the Ardyss reshaping garments are medical-grade garments. The Ardyss Reshaping line was designed by an orthopedic surgeon, so not only do they approve appearance, but they have tremendous health benefits, as well. Ardyss has garments for both women and men.
For women, Ardyss has a complete line of body reshaping garments that help restore the shape of the body. What these garments do is called "Lipo Transportation." That means it moves the fatty tissue in the body from where it is to the places it's supposed to be. On a woman's body, there are only two places where fat tissue is necessary: the breasts and buttocks.
The Ardyss Body Magic, their flagship reshaping garment, addresses every problem area on a woman's body, in that it flattens the tummy, lifts the breasts, reshapes the legs, lifts and reshapes the buttocks, straightens the back and pulls the shoulders back to correct posture, giving a woman the shape and posture she had in her younger years. This garment will allow women to drop 2 to 3 dress sizes in minutes. But when worn over time, it will reshape the body through weight and inches lost.
It is important to note that the Body Magic is not a girdle, but a body reshaper. Meaning, if a woman will wear her Body Magic on a regular basis, her body will begin to take on the shape it's in when it is inside the garment. Liken it to Jell-O and a mold. Any time you put Jell-O in a mold, it will take on the shape of the mold that you put it in. In regards to a woman's body and the Body Magic body shaper, the same rules apply. A woman's body is the Jell-O, and the Body Magic is the mold.
If a person wishes to take advantage of the network marketing side of Ardyss International, they may join one of three ways. Start-up costs with Ardyss range from a $30 Membership, a $150 Autoship, to a $299 custom Power Pack. All three ways to enroll will be plus tax and shipping costs of the new distributor kit.
There are several Ardyss distributors earning significant incomes within the first three to six months of starting their Ardyss business, putting them on pace to earn well over six-figures a year in their first year of business...and for several others, seven-figures a year in their first year! That is highly unheard of in network marketing for that level of income to be reached so quickly, but it's happening everyday in Ardyss International because of their rewarding compensation plan.
As it is well-known, network marketing has created many millionaires in the past. It is no different with Ardyss International. Their solid compensation plan has laid the groundwork to allow a person to recoup their initial investment very quickly and make a substantial income.
The Ardyss products are solid in that they are affordable for the average person and gives them instant results, which could make this opportunity very appealing to those who take a closer look.
Even though Ardyss International has been around for nearly twenty years, it is still a ground-floor opportunity for anyone interested in growing a solid home-based business.
If anyone is looking for a ground-floor opportunity, a strong compensation plan, phenomenal products, and strong leadership, Ardyss International deserves a deeper consideration for those searching for a home-based business.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
AMAZING STORIES PART 1
This is what Ardyss International has to offer if you are ready to take your life to the next level. Call me at 404-518-1014 or visit my page at http://www.changeintenminutes.com/momof4
Friday, January 22, 2010
How Important Is Your Health To You?
What I do daily is a ministry? It is not about the money it is about getting people healthy! If you are not healthy you will not be able to do anything for the KINGDOM. Invest in yourself and your future. If you drop dead today or tomorrow because you did not take care of your HEALTH who's to blame. YOU! You don't have to struggle with weight issues that will eventually lead to so much more like high blood pressure,back pains, aging before your time,stomach problems,respiratory problems, etc.Take charge of your life TODAY. You are not to young or old to change things with your health. And please don't have the mentality that oh that can't happen to me.
How many people do you personally know and care about that you can help by sharing valuable information with them that can save a life, change a life, and make a difference forever. When opportunity knocks you have to be wise and accept knowledge that is being presented to you. Health and wellness is projected to be a trillion dollar industry this year 2010, because people are becoming more aware of their health and taking natural products to ensure their longevity. People are tired of all the medications that doctors are putting them on and the side effects that come along with them. But God created all the natural things here on earth for us to take advantage of but we are not doing that.
There are so many people without healthcare coverage how awesome is it that the Ardyss family is now offering HEALTH coverage for their distributors!!!! You can help shape lives from home and still provide benefits to your family courtesy of Ardyss International. They are breaking records with this company. They are allowing people to have freedom from so many things that are stopping them from being all that God intended. Now is that time to take advantage of the opportunity before you and secure your legacy for your children and grandchildren.
Don't let money stop you from taking advantage of this opportunity. Prioritize your life can you put a price on your HEALTH and the legacy you should be leaving for your family. This company is changing lives daily. The economy is not getting better. But you can be apart of a BIG DIFFERENCE in helping to create jobs, helping with health, helping set people free. How awesome is that to be apart of something bigger than YOU! This is not a selfish business you truly have to have a heart for the PEOPLE!!!
Many will get tax returns soon, but what will you do with it? Will you invest in your future,the future of others and position yourself to have a return month after month. There is greatness in us all, but it has to come from within. If you want a change it has to start with you.
Everlena Jackson
Work at Home Mom of 4
www.changeintenminutes.com/momof4
404-518-1014
How many people do you personally know and care about that you can help by sharing valuable information with them that can save a life, change a life, and make a difference forever. When opportunity knocks you have to be wise and accept knowledge that is being presented to you. Health and wellness is projected to be a trillion dollar industry this year 2010, because people are becoming more aware of their health and taking natural products to ensure their longevity. People are tired of all the medications that doctors are putting them on and the side effects that come along with them. But God created all the natural things here on earth for us to take advantage of but we are not doing that.
There are so many people without healthcare coverage how awesome is it that the Ardyss family is now offering HEALTH coverage for their distributors!!!! You can help shape lives from home and still provide benefits to your family courtesy of Ardyss International. They are breaking records with this company. They are allowing people to have freedom from so many things that are stopping them from being all that God intended. Now is that time to take advantage of the opportunity before you and secure your legacy for your children and grandchildren.
Don't let money stop you from taking advantage of this opportunity. Prioritize your life can you put a price on your HEALTH and the legacy you should be leaving for your family. This company is changing lives daily. The economy is not getting better. But you can be apart of a BIG DIFFERENCE in helping to create jobs, helping with health, helping set people free. How awesome is that to be apart of something bigger than YOU! This is not a selfish business you truly have to have a heart for the PEOPLE!!!
Many will get tax returns soon, but what will you do with it? Will you invest in your future,the future of others and position yourself to have a return month after month. There is greatness in us all, but it has to come from within. If you want a change it has to start with you.
Everlena Jackson
Work at Home Mom of 4
www.changeintenminutes.com/momof4
404-518-1014
Monday, January 18, 2010
When Your Faith Feels Shaky (1)
If you... believe in your heart... you will be saved. Romans 10:9 NIV
A new Christian writes, "I've accepted Jesus as my Saviour. But then I slip, and end up wondering if my faith is strong enough. If I'm really saved why doesn't God talk to me like He talks to other people?" You'd be surprised how many of us walk around harbouring doubts that steal our peace and assurance.
The Bible says: "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9 NIV). Are you trusting in Christ? Have you confessed Him as your Saviour? Then you're saved! Jesus said, "He who believes in Me has everlasting life" (John 6:47 NKJV). Doubts always arise when you go by your feelings instead of God's Word. Your emotions will change like the weather. The enemy will use them to tell you that salvation's fine for other people but not for you. Paul said, "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him… (2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV). The One you've committed your eternal well-being to, is committed to saving - and keeping you. Hannah Whitall Smith said, "Faith is the simplest, plainest thing in the world… it's simply believing God."
When your faith feels shaky, pray, "Lord Jesus, I've placed my trust in You. Your Word says I can know I have eternal life (1 John 5:13). It's not a matter of feeling, thinking or wishing; it's a matter of believing and knowing that You keep Your word. So I choose to doubt my doubts, and believe You!"
A new Christian writes, "I've accepted Jesus as my Saviour. But then I slip, and end up wondering if my faith is strong enough. If I'm really saved why doesn't God talk to me like He talks to other people?" You'd be surprised how many of us walk around harbouring doubts that steal our peace and assurance.
The Bible says: "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9 NIV). Are you trusting in Christ? Have you confessed Him as your Saviour? Then you're saved! Jesus said, "He who believes in Me has everlasting life" (John 6:47 NKJV). Doubts always arise when you go by your feelings instead of God's Word. Your emotions will change like the weather. The enemy will use them to tell you that salvation's fine for other people but not for you. Paul said, "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him… (2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV). The One you've committed your eternal well-being to, is committed to saving - and keeping you. Hannah Whitall Smith said, "Faith is the simplest, plainest thing in the world… it's simply believing God."
When your faith feels shaky, pray, "Lord Jesus, I've placed my trust in You. Your Word says I can know I have eternal life (1 John 5:13). It's not a matter of feeling, thinking or wishing; it's a matter of believing and knowing that You keep Your word. So I choose to doubt my doubts, and believe You!"
Friday, January 15, 2010
Always Take The High Road
Pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:28 KJV
Don Shula, head coach of the Miami Dolphins American Football team, always held his players to 'the 24-hour rule.' He gave them 24 hours to celebrate victory or sulk over defeat, then put it behind them. What a great rule to live by!
When you're criticised it's human to want to retaliate, but when you take the time to try and understand people it's easier to forgive them. Many of the negative people in our lives just lack intimate relationships, so they keep others at arm's length, rarely share their feelings and are uncomfortable with those who do. It's easier for them to condemn than accept. Their hard and fast views make them inflexible. Often these people can't handle freedom; they need rules that limit their choices, and only feel secure within their own boundaries. Abraham Lincoln said, "If I tried to answer all the attacks made against me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business. I do the best I know how. If the end brings me out right, then what is said won't matter. If the end brings me out wrong, then ten angels declaring I was right would make no difference."
In dealing with others, always take the high road laid out by Jesus: "Pray for those who spitefully use you. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either… just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise" (Luke 6:28-31 NKJV). Is that always easy to do? No, but it is always right!
Don Shula, head coach of the Miami Dolphins American Football team, always held his players to 'the 24-hour rule.' He gave them 24 hours to celebrate victory or sulk over defeat, then put it behind them. What a great rule to live by!
When you're criticised it's human to want to retaliate, but when you take the time to try and understand people it's easier to forgive them. Many of the negative people in our lives just lack intimate relationships, so they keep others at arm's length, rarely share their feelings and are uncomfortable with those who do. It's easier for them to condemn than accept. Their hard and fast views make them inflexible. Often these people can't handle freedom; they need rules that limit their choices, and only feel secure within their own boundaries. Abraham Lincoln said, "If I tried to answer all the attacks made against me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business. I do the best I know how. If the end brings me out right, then what is said won't matter. If the end brings me out wrong, then ten angels declaring I was right would make no difference."
In dealing with others, always take the high road laid out by Jesus: "Pray for those who spitefully use you. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either… just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise" (Luke 6:28-31 NKJV). Is that always easy to do? No, but it is always right!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
'where's My Heart?'
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be...
Matthew 6:21 NIV
William Randolph Hearst lived in Hearst Castle. It was 90,000 square feet sitting on 265,000 acres. At one time he owned 50 miles of California coastline. And he collected 'stuff' for 88 years. He had 3500-year-old Egyptian statues, medieval Flemish tapestries, centuries-old hand-carved ceilings, and some of the greatest works of art of all time. After eight decades of collecting stuff William Hearst died. Now people go through his house by the thousands and they all say the same thing: 'Wow, he sure had a lot of stuff.'
We go through life, get stuff, then die, leaving all our stuff behind. And what happens to it? Our kids argue over it. Our kids, who haven't died yet, go through our stuff. Like vultures, they decide which stuff they want to take to their houses. They say to themselves, "Now this is my stuff," then they die and new vultures come to get it. Nations go to war over stuff, families are split apart over stuff. Husbands and wives argue more about stuff than any other single issue. Prisons are full of street thugs and CEO's who committed crimes to acquire it. Why? It's only stuff.
This is what Jesus was addressing when He said, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:19-21 NIV). Now, having read those words, ask yourself the question, "Where's my heart?"
Matthew 6:21 NIV
William Randolph Hearst lived in Hearst Castle. It was 90,000 square feet sitting on 265,000 acres. At one time he owned 50 miles of California coastline. And he collected 'stuff' for 88 years. He had 3500-year-old Egyptian statues, medieval Flemish tapestries, centuries-old hand-carved ceilings, and some of the greatest works of art of all time. After eight decades of collecting stuff William Hearst died. Now people go through his house by the thousands and they all say the same thing: 'Wow, he sure had a lot of stuff.'
We go through life, get stuff, then die, leaving all our stuff behind. And what happens to it? Our kids argue over it. Our kids, who haven't died yet, go through our stuff. Like vultures, they decide which stuff they want to take to their houses. They say to themselves, "Now this is my stuff," then they die and new vultures come to get it. Nations go to war over stuff, families are split apart over stuff. Husbands and wives argue more about stuff than any other single issue. Prisons are full of street thugs and CEO's who committed crimes to acquire it. Why? It's only stuff.
This is what Jesus was addressing when He said, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:19-21 NIV). Now, having read those words, ask yourself the question, "Where's my heart?"
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Take Up Your Cross (2)
Let him... take up his cross daily...
Luke 9:23 NKJV
Here are three questions that will help you to identify your cross:
1) What direction is God leading me? If you think your background doesn't matter, think again. It can be a roadmap to your future. Consider the experiences and the kind of lifestyle you've been exposed to. Growing up in Egypt prepared Moses to stand before Pharaoh. David's years leading sheep, groomed him to lead a nation. Paul's distinction as a Hebrew scholar and Roman citizen qualified him uniquely to minister to both religious and nonreligious people.
2) What burdens has God laid on my heart? Paul says: "My heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved" (Romans 10:1 NKJV). Paul was driven by a passion to see his people saved. What drives and inspires you? Building shelters for the homeless? Standing against abuse and neglect? Try visiting a nursing home and see if you don't leave feeling uplifted. Or spend time with a group of special-needs kids; they'll teach you more than you teach them! Fulfilment comes from the desires of your heart, not just the ideas in your head.
3) What areas utilise my talent? The Bible says God 'has given each one of us a special gift' (Ephesians 4:7 NLT) and although 'There are different kinds of working,… the same God works all of them in all men' (1 Corinthians 12:6-7 NIV). How can you tell the difference between a self-generated and a God-generated idea? Solomon said, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but… the Lord's purpose… prevails" (Proverbs 19:21 NIV). Man-made ideas have a short shelf-life, divine direction persists; it has longevity.
Luke 9:23 NKJV
Here are three questions that will help you to identify your cross:
1) What direction is God leading me? If you think your background doesn't matter, think again. It can be a roadmap to your future. Consider the experiences and the kind of lifestyle you've been exposed to. Growing up in Egypt prepared Moses to stand before Pharaoh. David's years leading sheep, groomed him to lead a nation. Paul's distinction as a Hebrew scholar and Roman citizen qualified him uniquely to minister to both religious and nonreligious people.
2) What burdens has God laid on my heart? Paul says: "My heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved" (Romans 10:1 NKJV). Paul was driven by a passion to see his people saved. What drives and inspires you? Building shelters for the homeless? Standing against abuse and neglect? Try visiting a nursing home and see if you don't leave feeling uplifted. Or spend time with a group of special-needs kids; they'll teach you more than you teach them! Fulfilment comes from the desires of your heart, not just the ideas in your head.
3) What areas utilise my talent? The Bible says God 'has given each one of us a special gift' (Ephesians 4:7 NLT) and although 'There are different kinds of working,… the same God works all of them in all men' (1 Corinthians 12:6-7 NIV). How can you tell the difference between a self-generated and a God-generated idea? Solomon said, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but… the Lord's purpose… prevails" (Proverbs 19:21 NIV). Man-made ideas have a short shelf-life, divine direction persists; it has longevity.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Take Up Your Cross (1)
Let him... take up his cross daily...
Luke 9:23 NKJV
We tend to equate our cross with things like a difficult mate, a headstrong teen, a bedridden loved one, or too much month left at the end of the money. One author writes: "We think God passes out crosses like a warden handing shovels to a chain gang. No one wants one. Each one gets one… [But] the cross means much more. It's God's tool of redemption… proof of his love. To take up the cross… is to take up Christ's burden for… people." Jesus said, "The load I give you to carry is light" (Matthew 11:30 NCV). The cross you're called to bear won't break your back, it will awaken and develop in you areas of strength which are lying dormant or being used for less worthy purposes. When you recognise this you'll stop praying for a lighter cross and ask God for a stronger back. When Paul began praying this way, God said, "My grace is sufficient for you… (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV).
When a badly burned infant dressed in funeral clothes was left to die in a field, attorney John Bentley and his wife nursed him back to health and adopted him. Today the Bentleys oversee an orphanage. Instead of walking away, they're shouldering the cross for China's children. Michael Landon, Jr. was 19 when he accepted Christ and started impacting Hollywood by making redemptive films instead of the usual rubbish. The son of an acting legend, Landon is uniquely qualified to carry the cross for the entertainment industry. But remember, the cross calls for dying to self-interest and crucifying the desires of your flesh so that the life of Christ can be seen in you.
Luke 9:23 NKJV
We tend to equate our cross with things like a difficult mate, a headstrong teen, a bedridden loved one, or too much month left at the end of the money. One author writes: "We think God passes out crosses like a warden handing shovels to a chain gang. No one wants one. Each one gets one… [But] the cross means much more. It's God's tool of redemption… proof of his love. To take up the cross… is to take up Christ's burden for… people." Jesus said, "The load I give you to carry is light" (Matthew 11:30 NCV). The cross you're called to bear won't break your back, it will awaken and develop in you areas of strength which are lying dormant or being used for less worthy purposes. When you recognise this you'll stop praying for a lighter cross and ask God for a stronger back. When Paul began praying this way, God said, "My grace is sufficient for you… (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV).
When a badly burned infant dressed in funeral clothes was left to die in a field, attorney John Bentley and his wife nursed him back to health and adopted him. Today the Bentleys oversee an orphanage. Instead of walking away, they're shouldering the cross for China's children. Michael Landon, Jr. was 19 when he accepted Christ and started impacting Hollywood by making redemptive films instead of the usual rubbish. The son of an acting legend, Landon is uniquely qualified to carry the cross for the entertainment industry. But remember, the cross calls for dying to self-interest and crucifying the desires of your flesh so that the life of Christ can be seen in you.
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