Upgrade Your Expectations

Expectations can either make or break us. Having little expectation results in having little in life. If you cannot foresee things improving, they will not. However, if you expect to be healed, get promoted, or experience financial increase then you will see new levels of favor and success.

I recently flew back to Dallas from Japan after returning from a mission trip to Indochina. When I approached my boarding gate, I heard my name on the loud speaker. I was unable to catch everything so I made my way to the counter. The lady asked me for my boarding pass. When I handed it to her, she tore it up and presented me with a new one. She said, “Congratulations, Mr. Anderson, we have upgraded you to Premier Class.” I thanked her, accepted it graciously and walked away with a smile.

On several other occasions, I have been upgraded to first-class seats. Why is that? It is because I ask God for favor every time I travel. I thank Him for the best seats and the best airline service. I travel with high expectations and usually end up with preferential treatment.

Let me ask you a question. What are you expecting? Are you expecting big things, small things, or nothing at all?

As a young man who experienced many negative things in life, I coined the phrase, “No expectation, and no frustration.” When you are hit with a series of bad breaks, injustice or a chronic illness, it is easy to anticipate the worst. However, if you shift your attitude and expect the best—to live in health and accomplish your dreams—then you will attract blessings and favor. Do not let negative experiences keep you from enjoying the good things God has for you today. Expect God-things!

In Mark Chapter 10, Jesus was leaving Jericho and a great crowd followed him. There was a blind beggar on the side of the road named Bartimaeus. When he heard all the commotion, he started shouting, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!" The people around him told him to be quiet. They saw Bartimaeus as insignificant.  They didn’t think Jesus would be interested in him. The odds were against Bartimaeus but he had high expectations. The more the crowd tried to quiet him, the louder he shouted. Finally, Jesus stopped and asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus answered, "I want to see!" Jesus replied, "Go on your way. Your faith has made you whole." Instantly he could see.

Here is what I want you to see. There were other sick people present that day, yet Bartimaeus was the only one who was healed. Why? Bartimaeus went out there expecting a healing! He did not let people talk him out of it, nor did he let the circumstances get him down. He put his faith into action and got what he expected!

Every morning when you wake up, say to yourself, “Something good is going to happen to me today!” You have to get your expectation going in the right direction at the beginning of each day. Then throughout the day go around thanking God, expecting your miracle.

Are you letting the enemy talk you out of what God has put in your heart? The enemy is a liar and a deceiver. He will tell you, “You will never get out of debt! You will never get well! You will never go on that mission trip! You will never reach your potential, you have too much opposition!"

Be like Bartimaeus and ignore what people are saying. Delete the negative experiences of your past. Shrug off the worry, defeat, and doubt. Do not try to figure out how everything will work out. When the opposition is too high, you have to want it on a new level. You cannot be passive and expect to have a good life. Life may have given you some lemons but you have to be determined and optimistic. Things may look impossible right now but God can do the impossible. The odds may be against you but Almighty God—the Creator of the Universe—is for you. Where you are now is not your final destiny. You have to believe in the goodness of God. He wants you happy, healthy, enjoying life, and helping those without hope. Get your passion back. Get your enthusiasm back. Get your expectation antenna out. No matter what has happened in the past, today is a new day. God is doing a new thing. Upgrade your expectations. If you do this, I pray and declare that your expectations shall not be cut off!

“My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him” (Psalm 62:5 NKJV).

Become a Life Changer: https://buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.

Stay Committed

We all have dreams, desires, and goals that we are believing God for. At times, when it’s taking too long, when it’s not happening on our time table, it’s easy to slack off and be tempted to give up. But if we’re to reach our maximum potential, we have to stay committed until the end.

My personality type is to keep moving forward. Sometimes, I move on too quickly. I’m good at starting but not so good at finishing. God is dealing with me to stay committed to the people and the things He has called me to. It is uncomfortable but I’m learning.

What about you? Are you tempted to give up easily? Do you run away from challenges when things get complicated or take longer than expected? God is saying to us, “If you stay committed to the end, you’ll see the glory of God.” He will reward you double for your troubles.

Back in 1960, a young man enrolled in the University of Michigan in order to become an architect. His father died when he was four years old so he grew up in an orphanage. He borrowed $900 to start a pizza business that would help fund his education, but he faced many setbacks. His business partner stole thousands of dollars from him. In 1968, a fire broke out and burned down his business. The insurance paid him pennies on the dollar. Despite the odds, the young man remained committed to the vision that God gave him.

One day he had an idea to deliver pizza to customers instead of having them come to his restaurant. He came up with the first delivery service and called it Domino’s. Today, you may have enjoyed a slice of their pizza because Domino’s has over 6,000 locations around the world. A few years ago, Tom Monaghan sold his company for a billion dollars! He is a very generous man, helping orphaned children around the world.

What is my point? Stay committed to the vision God put in your heart. You may have plenty of reasons to give up, but do like Monaghan. Stay committed until the end and your dream will come to pass. God will give you double for your trouble.

 

Be determined. Leaving is easy but ask yourself what are you going to? Stay committed to your marriage. Stay committed to your children even if they are not where you want them to be. Be loyal to your friends. Stay committed to the relationship, work, and your church. There may be times when you are tempted to give up. You could justify walking away. But God rewards consistent, loyal, and committed people.

 

Do not settle for mediocrity. There is greatness within you. God did not bring you this far only to leave you. He put a world vision in you. God wants to use you and increase your influence. Do not let people, disappointments, or circumstances talk you out of it. If you stay committed, God will bring you to a flourishing finish!

In 2 Kings Chapter 2, Elijah was about to be taken up to heaven. His apprentice, Elisha, knew that his master’s life was coming to an end. One day, Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here! I’m going to the city of Bethel.” Elisha said, “I’ll never leave you.” Off they went to Bethel. When they reached the city, Elijah said, “Stay here, I’m going to Jericho.” Again, Elisha denied leaving him. When they arrived Jericho, Elijah told him the third time, “Stay here Elisha; I’m going to the Jordan River.” Once again, Elisha refused and said, “I will never leave you!” Three times Elijah tried to get rid of his apprentice but Elisha was committed.

Finally, Elijah said, “You’ve been a loyal person. You’ve served me well. You’ve been faithful for so many years. What can I do for you?” Elisha replied, “I want the double portion of your anointing!” His master said, “You've asked a hard thing, but if you see me at the time I'm being taken away, you will have it.” Shortly afterwards, Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind and his mantle fell on his disciple. Elisha went on to perform twice the miracles!

Here’s the key. If you want to see the double portion of God’s anointing in your life, stay committed until the end. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to give up on your dream. The enemy will entice you to walk away from your marriage, walk away from the relationship, walk away from your job, or your church. Leaving is easy. What are you going to? When you stay loyal, consistent, and faithful, a double portion is coming, double favor, double honor, double resources. Stay committed until the end and God will give you double for your trouble!

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9 NIV).

Become a Life Changer: www.buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.

Focus on the Eternal

So much of our time, energy, and plans focus on material things. From birth, we are programmed to grab, get, and gather. I am all for abundant living; however, we should never lose focus on the eternal perspective in pursuit of happiness!

When you study the Scriptures, you will find that Jesus made great effort to improve people’s quality of life. However, after meeting their material needs, He always pointed them towards eternity in heaven. I believe God is doing the same thing today. He wants us to enjoy life but to never sidetrack and lose sight of our eternal purpose.

Recent news of the premature death of basketball superstar, Kobe Bryant, shocked the world. I do not know too much about his beliefs or values, nor am I knowledgeable of basketball. What I do know is that Kobe Bryant had worldwide influence.

I, too, am distraught by the sudden demise of such a great athlete at the age of only 41. I am saddened to think of the family he left behind. Please pray for them! The news of the accident forced me to acknowledge the shortness and fragility of life. It has provoked me to reconsider my priorities and live with an eternal perspective that glorifies God. Kobe Bryant’s hard work, talent, and achievements gained him respect, wealth, and influence. Unfortunately, his life was cut short and he left it all behind.

In Mark chapter 10, a man runs up to Jesus and kneels before Him saying, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus tells him to keep God’s commandments to which the young man replies, “Teacher, I have kept all these things from my youth up.” Then Jesus looks at him with love and says, “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” At these words the man was saddened and walked away grieving, for he was one who owned much property.

Many people misinterpret this passage. See, God is not against people having a good life or nice things. The problem is when the goods own you. God wants you to have a life of peace, joy, prosperity, health, and abundance. The Bible says, “Remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18 NIV). We know that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father in heaven (James 1:17). Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

Is God against material success? No, of course not, but our vision is skewed if our success takes the focus away from eternity. God is not against wealth, fame, influence, or affluence; in fact, these are His blessings. Do not get so caught up in the gifts that you forget the gift-Giver! Use what you have to honor God in everything you do.

Life is a vapor. The time we occupy here on earth is miniscule compared to eternity. If we are only focused on the here and now, then we are going to miss out on eternity. Shall we not then focus more on the eternal and less on what is temporary?

In Gladiator, Maximus, the roman general, quotes Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor, and says, “What we do in this life, echoes in eternity!” I love this statement because it is so true for us believers. What we do now affects eternity!

So what can we do to live a life with eternal perspective? Start with your own belief system. Is it in alignment with God’s? Pay attention to who you have in your life—your family, friends, and loved ones! They sacrifice the most for you. Are you expressing gratitude and appreciation towards them? Do not just assume that they know; instead, keep reminding them how much you love them. When it comes to material possessions, enjoy what you have but be generous to invest in the eternal also.

Denzel Washington once said, “You'll never see a U-Haul behind a hearse. ... Now, I've been blessed to make hundreds of millions of dollars in my life. I can't take it with me, and neither can you. It's not how much you have but what you do with what you have.”

Friend, let us enjoy the life God has given us, but let us also have an eternal perspective. For the unseen is more real than the seen.

“While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18 NKJV)

Become a Life Changer: www.buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.

Giving God Our First

Sermons on tithes and offerings are nothing new, especially if you have been a Christian for a while. During this time of the year, you may also hear about the “First Fruits Offering.” While you can never out-give God, it is good to know why we give when we give.

So what is a First Fruit Offering? It is a Biblical offering that comes from the first produce of harvest. This offering was given to the priest. In modern times, believers are encouraged to bring an additional offering to God’s work.

Consider these Bible verses on First Fruit Offering:

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your increase” (Proverbs 3:9).

“Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with the first fruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow” (Proverbs 3:9–10 NKJV).

“When you come into the land which I gave you, and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the first fruits of your harvest to the priest” (Leviticus 23:9-10).

“For if the first fruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches” (Romans 11:16 NKJV).

Clearly, this offering is a Bible principle and encourages us to give our first income to God.

If we limit the offering to financial giving, we are taking a shallow approach to a powerful Biblical principle. God does not need your money in order to recognize your love for Him. His promise to bless us does not depend on our giving. In that case, most of us will default because we have all missed opportunities to give. Giving to God is not a duty or an obligation. We give because we love. You can give without loving someone but you cannot love without giving! Before you consider a First Fruit Offering, ask yourself why? Are you giving out of guilt, obligation, or duty? Are you giving in order to receive? The true motivation to give should be because of our love for God. We give because we are grateful for what we have received.

Give God your first in all things! Jesus said, “Seek first the Kingdom of God…” (Matthew 6:33). God wants our hearts and not just money. Here are three ways how and where you can give:

1. Give God the first of your time. Time is the only commodity you cannot grow, buy, or multiply. When we honor God with the first hours of our day, we are really saying, “Lord, I’m grateful for the time you’ve given me. Thank you for letting me see another day! Today I’ll trade in my time for a paycheck, love my family, and enjoy life.” I strongly encourage you honor God in this manner. I guarantee you that the rest of your day will be more productive as a result.

2. Give God your firstborn. We often plan and pray for our children’s education and success. That is a good thing but did you know the Scripture says, “Dedicate to me every firstborn among the Israelites. The first offspring to be born, of both humans and animals, belongs to me” (Exodus 13:2). When was the last time you prayed and dedicated your children to the Lord? Encourage your children to serve and honor God. It is the best thing they can do with their lives. Show them by being an example. More is caught than taught!

3. Make God your priority. The secret to having an abundant life filled with God’s love, peace, and joy is to make Him your priority. God told Abraham, “Walk [habitually] before me” (Genesis 17:1). We, too, can do this through the daily habits of giving thanks, praise and worship, prayer, Bible reading, and spending time with God. You can do this in your bed, on the sofa, in the closet, while driving to work, at the gym, while out on a walk, or even while grocery shopping. Spending time with God can take place anywhere and everywhere. When we make God the priority, we begin to prosper in our body, mind, soul, and finances.

Make it your goal to have a deep, intimate relationship with God. When you decide to serve God with your whole heart and make Him the priority, your soul will prosper and your joy will increase. If you look to other people for answers and validation, you may be disappointed. Everything falls into place when we live to please God. When you mess up (and we all do!), do not feel discouraged or let it hold you back. Confess your sins to God, make a U-turn, and keep running towards Him. God is not keeping track of your wrongs. God doesn’t need your possessions; He wants your heart. As we live to please God, He promises to bless our lives and make us prosper.

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2 ESV).

Become a Life Changer: www.buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.

A Decade of Favor

What an exciting time to be alive! There is something about the year 2020. In the same way that 20/20 vision indicates perfect eyesight, I believe the New Year will usher in God’s unstoppable favor over our lives. 2020 will be a decade of God’s favor! 

It’s good to make New Year’s resolutions and set new goals for ourselves. However, success is not just about grand achievements but also how to live a life of excellence in obedience with God’s Word. When we step into His purpose for our lives, God’s favor surrounds us like a shield. (Psalm 30:5 NIV).

I’ve learned that it’s not so much about what we have that counts but do we have God’s favor in what we have that matters the most. When we have His favor, we have an advantage for success. God’s favor brings the right connections, opens the right doors, and brings us good breaks. The favor of God is the force that will take you where you cannot go on your own!

This is what happened to Joseph in the Bible. As a young boy, God gave him a vision that one day he would rule over a nation. He was his father’s favorite. He started with lots of love and support of his family. But as the dream got stronger, his brothers became jealous of him. They were not threatened by Joseph but by his dreams. One day, his own brothers threw him into a pit to die.

You may be going through some challenges right now. It’s because of the dream God placed in your heart. You are making progress, moving towards your destiny. The enemy opposes you the most when you are approaching the finishing line. It is not that people hate you, but oftentimes they don’t understand the vision that God has put in your heart. Like Joseph, you may be in a pit right now but the Lord’s favor will bring you out. God began a good work in you, and He will bring it to completion.

Joseph’s brothers eventually sold him into slavery to a man named Potiphar. Despite Joseph having done nothing wrong, his whole world was turned upside down. His dream seemed to be fleeting away from him. Instead of ruling over a nation, he was betrayed by his own family, a slave in a foreign land. Moreover, Potiphar, his master’s wife falsely accused him that landed him in prison for thirteen years. You’d think Joseph must have been discouraged, angry, bitter, and upset.

No, Joseph understood this principle. Joseph was surrounded with the force field of God’s favor. He kept doing the right thing even when the wrong thing was happening to him. God didn’t forget Joseph. One day Pharaoh had a dream that no one was able to interpret except for Joseph. Pharaoh was so impressed that he put Joseph in charge of the entire nation.

In the same way, God put something on you that will override people being against you. What is that? It’s the favor of God. It will override bad breaks and injustice. You have been in the pit and in prison; now get ready for your palace where you can influence a whole nation. Don’t worry about who has done you wrong. Just keep being your best working unto God and not unto men. Life may push you down but God will pull you back up. Situations may look impossible, but God can do the impossible. Your obstacle may be big, but our God is bigger.

God’s favor will make your crooked places straight. It will win over the hearts of your enemies. Favor will land you the job you are not qualified for. it will help you to meet the right person. When you face challenges, do not feel discouraged, speak favor instead! Look at your bank account and say, “God will supply all my needs!” Speak favor over your health and say, “By the stripes of Jesus, I’m healed!” Do not simply pray but declare God’s favor over every area in your life.

Let me make a declaration of favor over you today: I declare health, energy, and wholeness. The chains that have held you back are coming off. I declare freedom from sickness, chronic pain, depression, and addiction. I declare favor over your family, marriage, and children. I declare favor at work, with your boss, with your co-workers, and with your clients. I declare favor over your finances. Favor is opening new doors of opportunity, promotion, increase, influence, and abundance. Favor is attracting the right people to you. I declare that the favor of God will catapult you to a new level of victory. You are going to take on new ground, set new standards, and reach new heights. You are a history maker. 2020 will be your best year and decade yet–in Jesus’ Name!

“For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as with a shield” (Psalm 5:12 NKJV).

Become a Life Changer: https://buildinternational.org  

Building People. Spreading Hope.

Finding Your Purpose

Do you feel something missing in your life? Do you want to make a bigger impact in the world but you’re not sure how? Relax - you’re not alone! The older we get, the more we feel the urge to leave our mark on the world. The good news is that we can!

Mark Twin said, “The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” In order to live a satisfied life, we have to connect with our purpose.

Most of you have heard of Gandhi, the man who led the nation of India into independence from British rule. Did you know he started off as an ordinary person? However, Gandhi became unstoppable when he discovered his purpose.

Gandhi was born into a middle class family. As a youth, he was an introvert who suffered from low self-esteem. He struggled to make good grades and finish school. Hoping the environment would motivate him, his parents sent him to England to receive higher education. There he became a lawyer. When he returned to India, he found it hard to find clients because he was unfamiliar with the Indian legal system. Gandhi migrated to South Africa to work as a clerk and it was there that a personal experience catapulted him to discover his purpose in life.

One day, Gandhi was riding in the first-class compartment of a train. However, because of his dark skin, he was forced off the coach. This experience was the turning point in Gandhi’s life. From then on, he dedicated his life to speaking and standing against discrimination and injustice. This new-found purpose eventually fueled Gandhi to lead India to her independence.

Without a vision, the people perish (Proverbs 29:11). When you discover your purpose, you become unstoppable. Purpose is the engine that drives us to our destiny. Nothing is more explosive than a person who is connected to his/her purpose. When we discover our purpose, we awaken the sleeping giant within us. 

Never let the odds in your life keep you from pursuing your purpose. The potential of an oak tree sleeps in the acorn. But when planted, it becomes a giant oak tree. Seeds of greatness reside in you. When you surrender your life to your purpose, you’re powerful.

Adversaries are there to your advantage. David was only a shepherd boy until he met Goliath. Everyone said, “Goliath is too big to fight.” David said, “Goliath is too big to miss!” Often the problems we are facing today become the pathways to our greatness. Without Goliath, David would still be known as the shepherd boy.

Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it (1 Peter 4:10 MSG).

God put in you specific gifts to match with your destiny. One way you can find your purpose is to discover your natural talents. Another way you can find your purpose is to find your passion. Often, your passion is your purpose. Lastly, serve! If you want to find your purpose, then lose your life in the service of others. Jesus said, “The greatest among you will be the servant of all.”

Friend, God has created you with a purpose. When you discover your purpose, you’ll become powerful. Lose your life in the service of others and you’ll find yourself among the greatest. I pray and declare that you’ll do great and mighty things for God. Like Gandhi, you’ll influence millions. Like David, you’ll overcome every opposition. Your later days will be greater than your beginning, and you will go on to become a world changer!

China Mission Trip Report - Rt. Col. Leif Wilson

My short-term mission trip to China with Build International Ministries (BIM) was certainly the most spiritually significant and meaningful experience I’ve enjoyed in a number of years. Let me convey briefly how subject trip impacted and impacts my walk with the Lord and how it has changed my life.

While I am a Spirit-filled Christian, unfortunately my background and culture (my flesh) has produced a suspicious, critical, and prideful spirit toward people (even Brothers and Sister’s in the Lord) and organizations; particularly some "Christian/Non-Profit" organizations. I lead off with this because my life has been truly changed by my witness that "Build International Ministries" is a genuine "love your neighbor as yourself" Christian organization; one that can be trusted to put whatever donations they receive into building the Glorious and Triumphant Church of our Lord Jesus Christ and ministering to members in particular within the Body of Christ. After this trip, the witness to my spirit by the Holy Spirit is that Sandy and Neil Anderson are truly men of integrity and honesty with a love for the lost and hurting that puts me to shame. My life has been changed by the affirmation that there are good men and women in the ministry, that BIM is wisely proclaiming the Gospel with it’s financial resources, and that the China Church, my Brothers and Sisters in China, are genuine Christians putting the love of Christ and Service to Him FIRST place in their lives. 　

The "underground and persecuted" Body of Christ in China is alive and vibrant with the Love of God and Christ AND the anointing and Power of the Holy Spirit! Unlike America with "envy and strife" caused by factions and wayward "Christian" denominations, the Body of Christ in China, with it’s hundreds of thousands of "underground" Churches, is 95% Spirit filled! And by that I mean most every Christian I met in China "had received power after that the Holy Spirit had come upon them" (Acts 1:8), was fervent in Worship, devoted and effectual in prayer (Wow; can those pastors and congregants pray), and constantly putting the love and service to others BEFORE themselves. How refreshing to see the members of the Body of Christ in China truly walking in Love and Service.　

Let me highlight several other more notable observations. 　

The food was outstanding. As one who likes "different tastes" the meals were outstanding in flavor, content, and variety.　

The Hotel accommodations were more than adequate. Bathroom facilities outside the hotels however are far from Western standards.　

It’s difficult to generalize, but to me, China is a very modern country with "bullet trains" traveling 180mph, subways, cars, trucks, and buses, vast "freeways" and boulevards in the cities, and enormous apartment complexes and skyscrapers. Rural areas host multitudinous single-family homes with electricity, internal water (wells), garden plots, and "outhouse" bathroom facilities. In my opinion, very different than "third world countries" where the rural areas lack electricity, water, and septic systems. 　

I never felt threatened or in physical danger in China. The "persecutions" to the China Church members, Pastors, and Support organizations is that of tight Governmental oversight and monitoring to keep Christian gatherings small (less than 50) and free from outside agitators. The Governmental oversight and monitoring is different in various parts of the country depending on local rules, leadership and personalities of pastors and officials. The primary threat to support organization members and visitors would be loss of the 10 year visa which would clearly negate outside organizations ability to support and serve the Chinese Churches. It was probably different years ago, but as a Christian visitor, I never felt or perceived any physical danger during the trip. Of course, Psalm 91 and 121 was my REAL shield and protection.　

My personal spiritual growth and recognition of the Holy Spirit’s guidance was greatly enhanced. We had the opportunity to personally minister the Word and encouragement at every one of the 12-13 Churches we visited. And, in every meeting, we had the opportunity to pray individually with any and all in attendance. The teaching opportunity required me to spend significant time early in the mornings with the Lord to get the lesson He wanted to give. And then, giving the message through an interpreter was another opportunity for growth. Sandy was of great help in evaluating our performance and the big-picture significance and value. I learned many personal lessons in the Spirit from this experience that will change my life for the better forever! 　

In conclusion, I really believe it was the Lord’s perfect will for me to go with Build International Ministries to China. And, that the express purpose of the Holy Spirit’s orchestration for my attendance was for me to give personal encouragement and teaching to the Church in China. What an awesome opportunity! But, as I’m sure anyone who would undertake a similar trip would attest, the trip and associations/relationships with the Chinese pastors, worship leaders, congregants, and BIM officials in China ministered in many, many life changing ways more to me, than I ever could to them. What a wonderful blessing the whole trip was and continues to be.

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God Wants to Bless You

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (Psalm 23:6 ESV).

Today many people are confused about God’s plan for their lives. When life gets tough, we feel a million miles away from God and we tend to think that He’s forgotten us. However, just the opposite is true. God is closest to you when you’re going through your worst!

If we want to live a life of peace, pleasure, and prosperity, we have to change the way we view our Heavenly Father. Many of us have a distorted view of God because we were taught differently or our earthly fathers were very little like our Heavenly Father. No matter what your view has been in the past, you must know that God wants to bless you because you’re His child!

The one and only plan God has for you is to give you life and abundance.

Jesus said, "The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life" (John 10:10 NLT). The enemy is the thief. Unfortunately, too many Christians get God and devil mixed up in their roles. They go through a trial and blame God for their troubles. A sickness keeps lingering on and we think God is trying to teach us something with this sickness.

Friend, God is good all the way. Until we believe and accept it, we’ll never rise to our full potential. God doesn’t have the capacity to do evil. By nature, He can only do good.

Proverbs 10:22 says, "The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it." God is our closest ally for a good life. He wants us to be happy, content, fulfilled, and satisfied. He wants us to be healthy and prosperous in our body, mind, and soul.

One reason people miss out on God’s blessings is because their mouth doesn’t line up with their heart. When they read a message like this their faith rises but as soon as they face opposition, they begin to spill out all the negative things. We say things like — I’m broke. I’ll never get well. I’m going to be stuck in this job forever.

Here’s the key. You’ll never have what you constantly complain about.

If you want to be blessed, you have to agree with God and call yourself blessed. If you want health, say, "I’m strong and healthy." When you lack, say, "I’m rich." When we agree with God, we set a powerful force in motion. Angels begin to deliver the goods that belong to us.

When you are blessed, it is important to realize that you didn’t get here on your own. The scripture says, "Remember the LORD your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful" (Deuteronomy 8:18 NLT). The purpose of blessing is to be a blessing. God has already blessed us with much. If you have a family, you’re blessed. If you’re healthy, you’re blessed. If you have work, you’re blessed. And don’t forget all that God has saved and delivered you from. The spiritual blessings are unlimited in Jesus Christ.

Friend, God is the father and you’re His child. God has blessed you and the blessing always overrides the curse. Change your image of God. Speak words according to God’s Word and always be a blessing to those whom God brings in your path. If you do these basics, I pray and declare that God’s blessings will overtake you like never before.

Every day, make this confession with me: I’m blessed and highly favored. I’m blessed coming in; I’m blessed going out. I’m blessed when I’m in the city; I’m blessed when I’m in the country. I’m the head and not the tail. I’ll lend and not borrow. Great shall be my peace and my children will be mighty in the land. I’m blessed to be a blessing to the world! Friend, if you believe and agree with God every day, you’ll go to new victories you’ve never imagined.

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Giving God Our First

“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce” (Proverbs 3:9 NLT).

I’ve never met anyone who is intentionally planning to fail in life, yet we all know many who are dissatisfied with the status quo that they face year after year. One thing is clear, influential people live an intentional life.

God’s Word is life’s compass. It gives us the instructions to achieve all God has planned for us. One such success recipe is the first-fruit principle.

Most preachers, churches, and ministers like to use this time of the year to remind their constituents about following the first-fruit principle in their financial giving. That is good but this success-principle is much more than giving financially. Today, let me share three different categories of giving God your first.

1. Give God your time. How we spend our first five minutes, first hour of the day, or the first week sets the precedence for the rest of the hour, day, and month. Often, we do not have a long spiritual conversation with God, especially if you have a family or a job.

So what does it mean to give God our first time? Like everything else, Jesus is our model. The Bible makes references of Jesus getting up early in the morning or staying up late at night to connect with God. Personally, I like to connect with God throughout the day – when I’m driving, taking a walk, or having a dedicated time in the morning to worship and acknowledge God’s goodness in my life. Whatever your preference is, the key is to connect with God on a regular basis — throughout the day if you can. Here’s the key. Whatever part of your life you involve God with will prosper.

2. Share your talent. Not everything of value has to be monetary. In fact, serving God with your gift can be a huge boost to others. Often we’re encouraged to use our spare time to serve God. Today I’m challenging you to use your talent to serve God first and watch how He’ll bless the rest of our time.

We can certainly serve God in our churches but don’t be limited to an organization or a church building. I have a friend who facilitates young families coming out of debt and staying fiscally fit. Another friend who is an industrialist meets with me regularly on the top of his business hours to give me advice and counsel on developing our international ministry. You can certainly serve as a volunteer in the business chamber, church, or with your favorite charity. One word of caution! Don’t get burnt out. If you’re always made to feel that you’re not doing enough, or unappreciated for sharing your talent, it’s probably healthy for you to find another place to serve.

3. Give God your treasure. God doesn’t need our money. However, what we do with our money reveals a lot about our heart. Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Matthew 6:21). We live in such a material society that money often becomes the driving force in our lives. Even churches and mission organizations spend a bulk of their time and efforts trying to get people to give more. I believe that if we focus on ministering to people, the money we need will take care of itself.

Most Christians are coerced into giving 10% of their income to church. It will benefit us all if we teach people to be generous rather than to nag them. How radical it will be to give away 20, 30, or even 80% of your income! Oh the miracles you’ll see if only you commit yourself to be generous! Give where there are fruits. Share your treasure with the poor and widows for that is the pure religion. Give joyfully and not out of obligation. Give where there is accountability.

By the way, you don’t need to give God anything to be blessed. God has already blessed you. You don’t need another person to stand in for you. Jesus did that! You are blessed because you belong to His family. This year, give God the best of your time, talent, and treasure and watch your life going to another level you’ve never dreamed before.

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Be Kind and Considerate

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV).

Since childhood, we’ve been taught to be kind and considerate. We all want others to be kind to us but it’s hard to initiate these virtues. When we’re kind and considerate, we’re doing more than good deeds. We’re representing Christ and planting seeds for ourselves and our children.

A few weeks ago, I was running errands at the post office. As I entered the door, I saw an elderly lady carrying several boxes in her arms. I offered to hold the door open for her. After she put down her packages, she was about to go out and get some more from her car when I offered to help her.

Her whole back seat was full of packages for her kids and grandkids. After I put them down in the front of the clerk’s desk, we both stood in the line. She said, “Thank you.” I said, “Now you have to tell me a story.” She said, “What story?” I said, “Tell me something God has done for you that glorifies Him.” She said, “God miraculously healed my husband!” My eyes got real big as I said, “Tell me more.”

She said, “My husband was on a plane and he had been having a heart attack. He was breathing heavily and the passenger next to him complained to him. So he went and sat in the toilet the rest of the flight. After he got off the plane, he was rushed to the hospital and spent three months in the intensive care unit. God finally healed him.” 

I was so excited and asked her if I could pray for her husband. She said, “Sure.” Right there, standing in the post office line, I prayed a brief prayer of blessing over her and a healthy long life for her husband. When I said “amen” several others standing in the line joined in.

We finished our transactions at the post office and I was walking to my car when I heard, “Excuse me. Excuse me.” I turned around and there was another lady walking towards me. I was taken aback but I turned around and started walking towards her. She said, “I’m sorry to bother you but I heard you pray for the lady in the post office line. My husband has just had a heart attack. Would you please pray for him?” I said, “Yes ma’am.” I talked to her about how Jesus is still alive and he loves to heal and save people. Sheepishly, she said, “I know I should be in church but I haven’t in a long time.” I said, “Don’t worry. Jesus heals people even if we’re not church-goers.” Standing in the middle of the parking lot, I laid my hands on her shoulders and prayed for her husband. She was so relieved and promised that they’ll be in church the next Sunday.

We were just about to finish up our conversation when a young lady driving by stopped near us. She rolled down her window and shouted, “Hey, I just love what you did inside the post office and are now doing out here!”

Why am I telling you this elaborate story? I believe opportunities to be kind to others are all around us. If we’re not always in such hurry and focusing on our own agendas, we’ll find many people who are desperate for a touch from God. You may not be able to do anything big but can you open the door for an elderly lady? Will you be bold enough to pray in public? When you do, you’ll create a chain of events that will touch many lives.

Jesus was a champion at showing kindness to people. He made time for people. He was approachable. Even the children felt safe around him. He not only did mighty miracles but he had time to talk to ordinary folks like the Samaritan woman by the well. He made time to have dinner with the sinners and tax-collectors of his day.

Mark Twain said, “Kindness is the language in which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” This week, my challenge for you is to have an open heart. In traffic, let the person slip in front of you. Let go of a pet peeve with your child or spouse. Don’t join in the office gossip. If the boss is unreasonable, let it go. Forgive someone even if he/she hasn’t said sorry. One of the greatest inheritances you can ever leave your children is to teach them to be kind. Being considerate to others will take your children further in life than any formal education. Show them by example. This is the holiday season folks. Let’s be a little kinder and considerate to people whom God brings in our path.

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Love God and Love People

"'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself'" (Luke 10:27 NLT).

Christianity is at a crossroad. Some people are repelled by it while others are willing to give up their lives to follow Christ. In many instances, it may look like we’re on our back foot but the Bible assures us that His government and peace will have unlimited growth.

For centuries, Christians, leaders, and churches have tried to invent and reinvent the message of Christ. There’s nothing wrong discovering and growing in the knowledge of our infinite God; however, Jesus, the founder of our faith, gave us two basic commands.

The essence of Christianity is to love God and love people. 

Recently, I was visiting my brother’s family. They were returning from a worship concert when they stopped at a red light, a homeless man approached them. When they gave him a leather bag filled with medicine, toothbrush, cash, food, tracts, stationary, T-shirt, flashlight, and other basic necessities; the homeless man was dumbfounded. The first words that came out of his mouth were, “What the hell is that?” He couldn’t believe the kindness of total strangers!

I believe this is where Christianity is losing its flavor. We’ve become too private, intellectual, cynical, and judgmental of each other. People have taken advantage of us, so now we’re filtering our responses through our past experiences. This is not the best reflection of our faith.

Here’s the key: if you love God you will love people and vice versa!

In the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), Jesus spoke about a wounded man who was bypassed by a priest and a Levite. Their reasoning may have been along the lines of he’s not part of our church, culture or faith therefore; he doesn’t qualify for our help. What if God treated us according to His high standards? Jesus crossed every creed, color, social, racial, and cultural barriers to reach people and so should we as His disciples.

Jesus taught us to love people – ALL people. It’s easier said than done but when this is our intent, the love of God has the power to transform society.

Recently, a 22-year-old Egyptian Christian woman lived out her faith in deed. Her former husband (from another faith) divorced her. After several years, she got married to a young Christian man and they had two beautiful children together. She was pregnant with their third when they decided to visit their former church to fellowship with other believers. In the city, they’re spotted by her former family members. They kidnapped her and pressed her to renounce her faith. When she refused to deny Christ, her own sister beheaded her in order to “teach a lesson” to other women who chose to follow Christianity. What would be our response in such situation?

God forbid that we have to face such brutal fate. However, there are million little ways we can impact others with the love of Christ. The scripture says, “The goodness of God leads people to repentance” (Romans 2:4).

Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”

A couple of months ago, my friend was driving home in her pickup truck when she saw a bunch of men working under the scorching sun. She was moved with compassion but didn’t have any water in her truck. She went home and brought back ice-cold water for the men working on the street. She didn’t have to preach that day because she was the Gospel.

Our action towards our fellow men is a direct reflection of our love for God.

Friend, if we want to encounter God in supernatural ways, it’s not good enough to dress in our Sunday best, clap our hands, and sing, “I love you Lord.” We have to live intentionally and love the crying, sighing, and dying people God brings on our path. Loving God means to reflect the same love Jesus showed us. When we unite in loving people, we’ll see a new move of the Holy Spirit sweeping through our nation like never before. Let us love God and Love people!

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