Attitude Determines Altitude

There are many things we cannot control in life. However, one of the most important things that we can control is our attitude. Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we respond to it.

Everyone wants to succeed in life but very few do. It is not an accident that some people soar while others struggle. Ability teaches us how to do a task. Motivation decides why we do it. Attitude determines how well we do our job.

One of the greatest lessons I learnt in life is to shake off disappointment quickly. None of us like rejection yet, it is an inevitable part of life. It is not our falling that makes us a failure but whether or not we get back up. Successful people are those who understand that failure is an event, not a person.

In the Bible, Elijah was a great prophet. Once he had to pray down rain from a draught. After prayer, he sent his apprentice to check if there was any sign of rain in the sky. Six times the servant returned and said, “There is nothing!” Elijah could have easily said, “It’s not working. I give up!” Instead, he simply told his helper, “Go again.” He kept a good attitude even when he didn’t get the desired results. On the seventh time the servant came back and said, “There’s a cloud in the size of a hand rising from the sky.” Elijah declared, “I hear a sound of abundance of rain.” Friend, when you learn to keep an excellent attitude, rain will pour down upon your life filled with drought.

Long time ago, a Chinese king had a boulder placed on a roadway. He then hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king’s wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it.

Many loudly blamed the king for not keeping the roads clear but none of them did anything about getting the big stone out of the way. Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. On approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. As the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the king indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many others never understand; every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve one’s condition.

While God is not the author of our problems, like the king in this story He always makes sure to reward us for our good attitude. The Bible promises to bless us double for our troubles.

Walt Whitman said, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.” Murphy’s Law says, “If anything can go wrong, it will.” Today, I have another law for you to live by. “If anything can go right, it will go right for me!” Why? Because you honor God with your life!

Recently I came across a poster defining attitude. “The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects the wind to change. A Leader adjusts the sail.” Let me ask you a question. Who are you? My friend Terri says, “A bad attitude is like a flat tire. Unless you change it, you’re not going anywhere.”

Friend, we cannot control all that life throws at us but we can control our response to it. No matter what you’re facing, choose to find something good in it. Look at life’s boulders as your rewards. Like Elijah, if you’re not getting desired result, “go again!” God wants you to soar to your highest potential. Remember, your attitude determines your altitude in life. I love you and I believe in you!

“Because you got a double dose of trouble and more than your share of contempt, Your inheritance in the land will be doubled and your joy go on forever” (Isaiah 61:7 The Message).

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God will Use Your Shortcoming

What a wonderful season of the year this is! Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I love to see happy faces, festivities and the hustle and bustle of shopping and good times. Unfortunately for many, this is the worst time of the year.

I know people who dread festivities, good times and enjoying themselves. They retrieve because they’d done something wrong in the past. Guilt, shame and regret engulf their lives. Some resort to alcohol, drugs and other self-inflicting vices. We should never judge people like that instead, reach out and try to include them in our circle.

I can speak for myself. I made many blunders in my life. Believe it or not, I used to be selfish, moody, insecure, unfaithful, unreliable, lying blankety blank. (I’m still working on some of these issues.) When I felt guilt and condemnation, I’d turn to do more of the same thinking, I’m good for nothing. I don’t deserve anything better. Thankfully, a series of event in my life catapulted me to take a hard, long look at myself. I had to decide whether to let the enemy’s voice win or accept God’s plan for my life. I chose the latter and what a ride it has been since then. Today, I’m able to minister to thousands facing those same issues.

Here’s what I’ve learnt. When you’ve done something wrong or something bad happens to you, there are three choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you or allow it to strengthen you. If we have God’s perspective, we’ll always allow our weakness to strengthen us.

Many people sit on the sideline today because they made a mistake thirteen years ago. There are others who feel less of themselves because they don’t think they look beautiful nor have any talent. They constantly feel inferior amongst others. They look down on themselves and mistakenly give heed to the accusing voices of the devil. Don’t let that be you. Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” God will use your shortcomings to thrust you into amazing things God has in store for you.

This is what happened to Zacchaeus in the Bible. He had two things going against him. He had a bad reputation as a tax-collector and he was short in stature. Understandably, Zacchaeus allowed his self-esteem to drop but deep in his heart, he had a desire for God. He wanted to do the right thing. He wanted to see Jesus. There was no way for sinner Zacchaeus to get close to the Holy Man but he was determined. So he ran ahead and climbed up a sycamore tree. You know, today, people everywhere are looking for Jesus. If we Christians were a little more sensitive to their need and less judgmental to their sins, many more will follow Him. That’s exactly what happened to Zac. Jesus overlooked all the people pressing on Him and looked straight to Zac and said, “Come down, we’re going to dinner together.”  Jesus saw the heart of Zacchaeus while people looked at his shortcomings. Friend, Jesus is looking at you today. If you’re wrestling with your past, let it go; there’s no future there. The enemy has kept you crippled for too long. Why don’t you accept God’s free gift of forgiveness and mercy? He has a life waiting for you that you cannot comprehend. Today is your day. Will you turn to Christ?

Friend, there’s no better time to get your life right with God than this time of Christmas. Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” That’s Good News my friend. It doesn’t matter where you have been. What matters is where God can take you. Will you say this prayer with me? “Dear Jesus, I know I have sinned. I need a Savior. I accept you as my Lord. I repent from my sins. Give me the strength to overcome sin and bad habits by the power of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name.” Friend, if you prayed that prayer, you’re born again. Tell someone about your experience today and let the God of peace lead and guide you in all Truth. I’m praying for you!

“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost” (Luke 19:10 NLT).

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Don’t Answer to Your Critics

One of the greatest tests of maturity is how we handle criticism. If you’re doing anything worthwhile with your life, people will talk. How we learn to handle criticism will determine how far we will go.

I used to be a very insecure person. I didn’t take criticism well. I had to defend myself in the most insignificant things. I created scenes and embarrassed people. Often I was winning arguments but I was a small person inside. As I began to develop God-fidence, I started to handle criticism in a much healthier way.

Have you noticed that the only people who get criticized are those who are doing something? Usually they’re criticized by people who are not doing anything. Let me sound the alarm. If you want to do anything significant with your life, you’ll be criticized. Don’t sink down to the level where people are talking down on you. You protest, “Sandy, that’s not fair. Why can’t I tell them off and put the record straight?” Here’s why. They’re not going where you are going!

In my language, there’s a saying, “Let the elephant walk and the dogs bark.” The bigger you are the less you need to defend yourself. Let your walk do all the talking. When God begins to promote you, all sorts haters will come out of the woodworks. Don’t defend yourself. Let God be your judge. He will pay you back.

Once, Prophet Elisha was passing through a small city. A bunch of young people began to make fun of him calling him bald. Elisha was annoyed but he didn’t respond to the negative talk. He simply prayed. When he turned around, two female bear had come out from the woods and mauled forty-two young men! There are two lessons to be learned here. Number one; never make fun of a bald person! Number two; don’t criticize a Man of God. Friend, don’t worry about your critics. Instead of defending yourself, use all that energy to advance yourself. God will vindicate you. Let the elephant walk…

This is what a young British lad did when he failed in sixth grade. He tried a hand at politics but there was no room for him there. He was defeated in every single election for public office. Multitude criticized him. Winston Churchill continued to serve and inspire his countrymen on the radio. At the age of sixty two, he became the British Prime Minister and saved his country from the Nazi invasion. Last month I had the privilege of standing under his monument in the middle of the busy streets of London. Once people criticized Churchill but today people from all over the world come to pay tribute and celebrate his life. When you learn to ignore criticism, you too will inspire many others. Ignore the criticism and keep moving forward. You’re going places where no one else has gone before!

One of the worst critics you’ll ever face in life is yourself. When we belittle ourselves, it is far more destructive than any other criticism against us. Too many people today look down on themselves. Don’t let that be you. You’re created in the very image of God. He breathed His life into you. You are God’s perfect ten! Your failure is an event; it doesn’t define who you are. The Scripture says that the devil is the accuser of the brethren. Don’t assist the devil by thinking one iota less than what God made you to be. You’re God’s most valued possession. Our performance has nothing to do with God’s acceptance of us. He loved us while we were yet sinners. Accept His grace and forgiveness. There’s nothing wrong with you!

Friend, let’s grow up. You don’t have to answer to every critic. Use the criticisms to fuel you to your next level. Don’t seek revenge. Let God be your vindicator. Don’t judge others and you won’t be judged. God will pay you back for the backtalk. You’re going places where no one else is going. Greatness awaits you at the top. I believe in you! Let the elephant walk…

“God will vindicate the righteous” (Psalm 37:6).

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Built for More

Although we’re created by design, we don’t always realize the potential God put in us. We look at life and think, “This sickness is going to kill me. The financial debt is going to drown me. My children will never serve God.”

Life can be overwhelming at times but know this; God will not allow you to go through something if He hadn’t already given you the power to overcome it. Your burden will look easy when compare with what others are going through.

In the early nineties I ministered in Europe a lot. Once my friend was driving me down on the German Autobahn where there is no speed limit. We’re probably cruising at 120-130 MPH. When I mentioned to my friend how fast our BMW was going, he stepped on the gas and we took off like a rocket at 180 miles or so. I grabbed on to my seat and began to repent for my sins and of the world. I thought I was going to die! Then my friend said, “We can go faster than this!” I said, “I believe you. Can we slow down?”  It wasn’t funny then but now I can laugh about it.

Life is often like my driving experience in the German Autobahn. We love to cruise at a speed where everything is comfortable. Then comes a crisis or a problem and we get all worked up about it. There’s nothing wrong feeling frustrated and discouraged once in a while but there’s nothing right staying there. Like the automakers, your Manufacturer made you for more. He put in you the mental strength, the emotional stamina and the will to overcome any situation in your life. You are built for more. You have more in you than you realize. God didn’t leave you here helpless. He sent the Holy Spirit as our Helper to soar in life.

Jayakumar is an autorickshaw driver in the financial city of Mumbai, India. An autorickshaw is essentially a motorbike converted into three wheeler taxi that carries budget customers at a slow speed. It was a menial job for Jayakumar. He had to drop out of school in fifth grade and his wife had only a third grade education but that didn’t stop them from giving their children an education. They sold their small farmland and moved to the bustling city of Mumbai. “Stuying in a three hundred square feet one-room-home was a bit stifling but it never proved a deterrent,” says the oldest daughter Prema. Last year, she topped the test in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in India that has a success rate of only 12% graduating! A real life Slumdog Millionaire, Prema is a celebrity in Mumbai getting all sorts of job offers. Her parents are now retired from their life-long struggles. Prema's ambition is to earn well and ensure her parents take a well-deserved rest after their struggles. She says, “I want to buy a new and bigger house for my family.” What happened? In spite of bad brakes and difficult start God ensured that Prema and her family have a flourishing finish. When we honor God to do our best with what we have, God will pay us back. You have more in you than you think. You’re built for more.

We all know the story of King David. What is inspiring is that he didn’t come from a royal background. He didn’t have a lot of social connections. He only had one thing right. He had a heart after God’s own heart. This was the key to David’s success in spite of his many temporary setbacks. He was faithful as a Shepherd boy. He was brave to stand up as a leader and defeat Goliath. He had the backbone to repent when he committed adultery and murder. Friend, don’t give into the lying voices of the enemy. God is closer to you than He has ever been. Like my friend’s BMW you’re made for more. You have more in you than it appears. Like Prema, in spite of setbacks and crammed space you can rise higher in life. Like David, you can bury your past and enjoy your present. You’ve got what it takes to overcome. You’re built for more!

“These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye” (2 Corinthians 4:17 The Message).

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Get Back Up

Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes it can feel like there are more down than up. Everyone goes through periods of discouragement and failures. It’s not falling that keeps us down but our failure to get back up.

How fast we get back up when we fail determines how successful we become. Great men and women learn to get up quickly. There’s nothing wrong when you have a bad day, bad decision or even a bad year but there’s nothing right staying and wallowing in our wrong choices. The sooner we learn to get back up the faster the scenery of our lives will change.

When we fall, one of the first things we have to deal with is our own conscience. For a Christian, the Holy Spirit is there to convict us. The Spirit never condemns us but He gently steer us back to God. On the contrary, the enemy is the accuser of the brethren. The sooner we accept our wrongs, take ownership and repent from our wrong ways the sooner we’ll experience God’s power of restoration and reinforcement to get back on the road to success.

I know many people who made a mistake years ago but are still sidelined by their wrongs. They forgive others but they cannot seem to forgive themselves. Being trapped in the mistakes of our past is a miserable prison. Some believe that they’re out of reach from God’s mercy. Just the opposite is true. In the Old Testament our sins were barely covered by the sacrificial blood of the animals. In the New Testament, our sins are not just covered but they’re eradicated. They’re gone forever!

One of the greatest mistakes Peter made was to deny Jesus three times. In most of our minds that was the unforgivable sin. But Peter knew better. After walking, talking and hanging around with Jesus, he knew the power of God’s love and mercy. Peter wept bitterly and repented from his sins. Later, on the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit came upon Peter, he became a transformed man. The same person who denied Christ three times was now preaching to thousands and proclaiming the Gospel fearlessly. Historians say Peter was crucified upside down because of his faith. What brought such radical change in Peter’s life? He learnt the secret of forgiving himself and allowing the Holy Spirit to revolutionize his life.

Not all people make serious mistakes like Peter. Sometimes we get angry with our kids and we let that eat our day. At times we lose patience in traffic or long grocery line and we allow that to affect the rest of the day. When we get rejected by a sales call or a negative email, we can get easily discouraged. When the best client leaves us or we lose our job, we can be upset for days. Many people never recover from hurt and betrayal. I say this in love but there has to come a point when we have to forgive the offender or ourselves for our own good. We have to get up quickly and move forward in life.

Walt Disney was fired as a newspaper editor on the grounds that “he lacked imagination and had no good ideas.” He went bankrupt several times before he built Disneyland. The proposed park was rejected by the city of Anaheim on the grounds that it will only attract riffraff. Friend, don’t let your mistakes hold you back. Your wrong choices don’t define you. They’re just expensive lessons you’ve learnt.

Today, I urge you to take inventory of your life. Don’t hang on to the past mistakes and disappointments. Today is a new day. God’s mercies are new every day. Give your mistakes to God and allow His Holy Spirit to empower you again. You’re not washed up. God didn’t sideline you. You’re still in the game. Like Peter and Disney, there’s a comeback waiting for you. Remember, the difference between success and failure is the person who gets up one more time than the other. Let’s start over. I’m praying for you!

“The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again” (Proverbs 24:16 NLT).

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For Leaders Only

We all have a God-given nature in us to help others win. The best leaders are those who help other people succeed. Being a leader is not always easy but its rewards are great. The fact that you’re reading this today tells me that you’re a great leader.

Leadership is all about people. Jesus summarized the Ten Commandments into two. We must love God and people. We cannot love one without the other. Today we will talk about how to inspire others to rise to the top.

Affirm the positive in people. Religion has taught us that God is sitting up in heaven waiting for us to make a mistake so He can punish us. This is sad but just the opposite is true. God is looking for us to do one thing right so that He can promote us. We should operate in the same way. Instead of throwing dirt on people, we ought to dig for the gold in others. Most people know when they’re doing wrong and what they need to do to correct it. When we affirm the positive in people, we fuel them to come up higher. I’ve found people do more of what we brag about and less of what we nag about. Let’s maximize the positives and minimize the negative.

Highlight the good. None of us have arrived. We are all work in progress. Whether we’re at work or with our family, we all have goals, standards and expectations. When people are putting their best effort forward, we have to spotlight the growth and not the weakness. Dwell on the good.  When we focus on the strength and growth of others we’re helping them come up higher.

Celebrate the victory. We like to talk about our own success and reminiscence our own victories. When we celebrate the success of others we add value to them. When you hear about someone overcoming a struggle or buying their first new home, or a better car, get excited with them. Don’t dwarf their victory by immediately sharing one of your own. Let the people bask in their glory for a while. It’s healthy for them. Small victories set people up to overcome the big ones. People will make mistake. Minimize the failure and celebrate the victory.

Develop a habit of encouraging others. When we encourage people we give them courage to achieve the impossible. The other day I had a lunch appointment. The restaurant was very busy and waiters were stretched thin. When a young man came to serve us I sincerely said, “I like your tie.” He came by our table multiple times making sure we’re taken care of. I left him a good tip. Encouragement is like a cork floating in a bucket. The more encouragement, love, respect and honor you pour into the bucket the higher the cork will rise. This is especially true in marriage and other close relationships. When you’re close to someone, you not only see all their strength but also their flaws. We have to decide whether we want to add or drain honor to the bucket. Our encouragement helps people rise higher and perform better.

Think the best of people. If there are two ways to think about someone – think the best. Consistent people do inconsistent things. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Develop a negative into a positive picture! Assume the best in people. Give people something to live up to.

Friend, we are to be a light into our world God. We’re preaching a sermon with our lives at all times. When we live and do what’s right, we’re drawing people to Christ. Our action speaks louder than our words. Let’s draw people to Christ and not push them away. When we help others rise to the top, we elevate our own position. Helping others is not an option; it’s mandatory to our own growth. Let’s lead by example and by inspiration. Look for the gold in people. Celebrate people. Encourage others. What we do for others, God will make happen for us. You’re an excellent leader. I believe in you!

“Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26 ISV).

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Promotion Lies Within Your Problem

No matter where you are in life there will be challenges. It’s not so much the problems that beset us but our attitude toward it. When we go through tough times with a positive outlook, it is much more bearable and even cut short.

Challenges are a way of life. When one problem is solved another will arise. If we’re always trying to question God, question people getting all tied up in a knot over our struggles then our strength is small. How we handle a setback will determine how God will set us up.

There is a famous story in the Bible when Jesus was asleep in a boat. In the middle of the sea a great storm arose. The little row boat was about to flip over. The disciples were scared and frantically woke Jesus up from his sleep. They said, “Jesus, how can you be sleeping? Can’t you see we’re about to die? Don’t you care?” Jesus did two things. He challenged them to have more faith in God and then He rebuked the storm. Many Christians today have faith but they forget to rebuke their storm.

When you encounter a problem, always remember that it didn’t come to stay but it came to pass. You may have gone through a series of misfortunes but remember that your setback is a stepping stone to the next level. Maybe you don’t like your boss at work. Don’t complain about it. Just know that your current position will become a stepping stone to take over his job someday. Maybe you’re waiting tables right now. If you have the right attitude, God will promote you to be the manager of that place. You may have gone through a bitter divorce; instead of closing up like a sow bug stay open to be used by God to minister to other couples and marriages that are going through a rough time. Consider this: Without Goliath there won’t be David. Without larva breaking free from its cocoon there will be no butterflies. Without your trials there will be no greater you! When we look at our setback as God-ordained set ups then it’s easier to go through a difficult situation with a positive attitude.

This is what happened to Ruth. She was a young lady, living in a foreign land. Suddenly she got news that her husband had been killed. On her own free will, Ruth decided to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Jerusalem. Naomi didn’t have a lot to offer back home but she had a relative by the name of Boaz. Ruth was allowed to pick up the left over grains after the reapers. It was a hand to mouth struggle but Ruth had a stellar attitude. She didn’t complain; she didn’t blame her bad luck. She knew that her setback was going to turn into a setup. Sure enough, Boaz began to like Ruth. They fell in love and got married. Imagine! One day Ruth was working in the field and in the next day she became the owner of the field. Could it be you?

What am I saying? The size of your trouble is an indication of the size of your destiny. Don’t try to pray every uncomfortable situation away from your life. Your promotion lies within your problem. Remember, a kite always rises against the wind. You’re born to soar. The problem you’re facing doesn’t have the power over you. You have the same power that raised Jesus from the dead residing in you. You’ve got what it takes. This setback is a test. On the other side of your test is victory and promotion. Remember, nothing happens to you; everything happens for you!

In the scriptures, Paul taught Timothy and the church to endure hardship. He didn’t pray for all their troubles to go away but He prayed that God will make the people strong. You too my friend, are strong in the Lord. What doesn’t kill you will only make you strong. The Holy Spirit of God that created the majestic universe is lives within you as your Helper. Jesus our Lord is personally interceding for you to the Father. God is staging your comeback! Today, look at your setback as your stepping stone. Where you are is not the end of your story. You have miles to go. Jesus is in the boat to calm your storm. Like Ruth you too will go from working in the field to owning the field. Now Rejoice. For the joy of the Lord is our strength. Can I get a smile now? You look so much better with a smile! I’m praying for you.

“Because you got a double dose of trouble and more than your share of contempt, Your inheritance in the land will be doubled and your joy go on forever” (Isaiah 61:7 The Message).

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Go Again

Successful people have a good follow up system. We’re so bombarded with daily appeals; most people are skeptical to respond at first. When we don’t follow up we close the door on what could have been a very profitable venture.

Much of life’s success is follow up. Once I called a church every week for four months before they became a partner with our ministry. No matter what we do if we don’t learn to follow up we’ll miss out on great opportunities. Most people like to put off making decisions. Following up brings people to a place of making a decision.

I heard that 90% of all first time businesses fail and 90% of all second time businesses succeed, but 80% of all first time business owners never try again? What would that 80% of people have done if they had known they were only one follow up away from success?

The Bible says that Elijah was a man just like you and me. Once he proclaimed that it will not rain for three and a half years and it didn’t. (I Kings 18). After the time of drought had passed Elijah pray again. He prayed the first time and then sent his servant to check the weather. No rain. Second time Elijah sent his servant. No rain. Third… and forth time still no rain. This continued for seven times. Finally, the servant came back saying, “I see a cloud in the size of a man’s hand.” That’s all Elijah needed to act. He sent message to the king, “I hear the sound of an abundance of rain.” What would have happened if Elijah stopped at the first, second or the third time? What if he didn’t follow up to check on the weather?

Many times we pray and stand for something for a long time. When nothing appears to happen, we get discouraged and are tempted to give up. What I want to remind us today is God heard your prayers the very first time you prayed. He is orchestrating your answer but there are oppositions in the heavenly realm (read the book of Daniel). The devil wants to steal from you what the Lord wants to get to you. It is not just by faith but with patience we obtain our rewards. Stand firm on your promise and thank the Lord by faith. I hear the sound of abundance of rain coming upon your life!

If you’re seeking a relationship, follow up. If you’re trying to close a business deal, follow up. If you’re trusting God to heal you or for the salvation of a family member don’t give up now. Go again! Call on your previous client and ask for the business. Ask that special someone out to connect. Bring up the big question about salvation to your loved one. Just because people have said no to you in the past, doesn’t mean it was a no forever. In fact, no simply means not right now. People change their minds all the time due to various life circumstances. If you approach the right person at the right time the same people who have denied you in the past will be more than willing to assist you. Go again!

Last week one of my friends was lamenting how she doesn’t get to see her brother very often. Even after repeated phone calls they’ve not been able to get together much. I told her what I’m telling you. Gently follow up with reminders and ask when a good time in the other person’s calendar is? She wrote back to me the next day saying, “Thank you Sandy. I applied your idea. My brother and I are having lunch together next Monday!”

Some of the great ways we can follow up with people is by sending a text. Send a gentle email reminder. Text and emails are non-intrusive ways to remind people because they can look at their calendar at their own time and not have to make an instant decision on the phone. Send a letter by mail or a picture of the great time you had together. In appropriate situation, you can also send flowers, a box of chocolate or cookies. If you’re “in front of people” when you don’t need them, they’ll respond to you more positively when you do need them.

Friend, go again! I hear the sound of abundance of rain in your life. God has more in store in your future. He has the right connection, the right business deal, the right idea and the right resources. Like Elijah and my friend will you follow up with the people the Holy Spirit brings to your attention today? When you do, you’ll see doors of opportunity open wide and your life blossom like never before. I’m praying for you!

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7 NLT).

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Accept the Way God Made You

Too many people today are comparing themselves with others. We don’t always realize it but a lot of our social, emotional and physical problems stem from lack of healthy self-esteem. Instead of embracing who God made them to be they’re always trying to be like someone else.

Don’t misunderstand me. There’s nothing wrong trying to better yourself, get a different style of hair or wanting to lose some weight. But if we’re constantly trying to please others by trying to be different person than who we are, then we’re wasting our time, resources and energy.

I remember growing up in high school, I was very skinny. I didn’t like that. I wanted to be like some of my friends with strong muscles and big body. I thought of changing the way I looked. So I started to exercise, lift some weight, do pushups and even eat certain food to gain weight. Instead of putting on weight I became more lean and thin. It took me years to get comfortable in my own skin. Later when I came to America, I found out that people spend thousands of dollars in medical procedures, vitamin supplements and hundreds of hours at the gym and trying to look skinny. Then I realized God was setting me up even from my young age!

People of all ages think, “If I just look like she looks…” “If I had his job…” If I had their lifestyle...” People forget that we’re custom made by God. We’re created in the image of God. You have the right size nose, perfect height and matching personality. Sure we can all act a little more like Jesus but our outward appearance has nothing to do with the value God put in us. In God’s eyes, you’re a perfect ten! You must feel the same way about yourself.

When we’re constantly struggling to fit in unconsciously we’re devaluing what God made us to be. When we’re always trying to get the approval of others, we’re degrading God’s masterpiece. Wanting to live the life of another is an endless pit. The best representation of you is to be an original.

Many people go through life never accepting the gifts and qualities God put in them. You may not look or have a body of a movie star but you’re a kind person. You may not be the best cook but you keep up with your house. You may not be a very romantic person but you provide for your family faithfully. The secret of happiness is to dwell on the gifts and talents God put in you and not put so much of your focus on what others have. You may not realize it but you’re in high demand just the way you are. Somebody out there is waiting to celebrate everything about you.

It’s ok to be you! God approved you before anyone could put a curse on you. You’re created for His glory. There’s nobody like you and never will be. Your purpose and destiny on earth is more than how you look. As soon as you realize who you are in Christ, you’ll never have to struggle another day. You don’t need to be told how good looking and smart you are. You’re all that by design because God never makes junk. You belong to the royal class. You’re so valuable that God died to make you His own!

Certainly, we all can develop our skills, habits and personalities but never do so thinking it will increase your value. You’re a good stock. Your price is going up by the day. You don’t have any business what other people think of you. What is important is you know what God thinks about you.

Let’s say this together. I’m the apple of God’s eye. I’m smart. I’m beautiful. I’m creative. I’m disciplined. I’m full of God’s favor. I’ve got what it takes. I can do all things through Christ. I’m a Victor and not a victim. I have the mind of Christ. I’m born to do great things. Friend, focus on your own gifts and talents. Seek God’s approval rather than men and you’ll be the King (or Queen) the rest of your life. Accept the way God made you. You’re the best you the world will ever know!

“For if, by the trespass of the one, death reigned through the one; much more shall they that receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one, even Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:7 ASV).

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7 Secrets of Happiness

I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t want to be happy. Happiness is a basic human need. It’s a feeling that brings us joy, fulfillment and ecstasy. Happiness shouldn’t be our goal but it’s a byproduct of our thoughts, words and action.

Most people make the mistake of thinking that happiness is conditioned to external things. Some people think happiness is found in things and people. But happiness is an internal attitude. Today we’ll discuss seven secrets to living a happy and fulfilled life.

Happiness rule #1. You’re perfect! You’re made in the image of God. You have God’s DNA in you. Your behavior may need to catch up to your God-class status but never forget who you are. If you’re a Christian, you’re a child of God. He never manufactures junk. You’re smart. Good looking. Attractive. Disciplined. Funny. Creative and much more. Accept and embrace who you are.

Happiness rule #2. Dwell on positive thoughts. Your life will follow your thoughts. Bad things happen to good people. You don’t have to psyche yourself up to think negatively. They come automatically. Train yourself to look at the good in everything, and you’ll have a continual feast. A grateful heart does not have room for negative thinking.

Happiness rule #3. Get up quickly. The Bible says, a righteous man may fall seven times but he will rise up again. We all have weaknesses. We all make mistakes. The best thing we can do with our wrongs is to repent and learn from them. When we learn to pick ourselves us quickly after a disappointment, we’ll find happiness again.

Happiness rule #4. Find the best in people. Let’s face it. Most of our disappointment and discouragement come from people letting us down. Sometimes these people are the closest to our hearts. I’ve found that most people have something good in them that deserved to be recognized and celebrated. Let’s focus on the 80% good in people and overlook the 20% not so good. When we focus on the good, we’ll bring out the best in people.

Happiness rule #5. Forgive quickly. Forgiveness is a big idea. God invented it to redeem us from our sins. Without God’s forgiveness we’re all bound for eternal damnation called hell. When we forgive people and let go of the offense, we’re in God-class. When you forgive, you set a prisoner free – that prisoner is you! Let’s learn to forgive quickly because we need to be forgiven every day.

Happiness rule #6. Celebrate today! It took your whole life to get to today. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not promised. Today is a gift! Don’t live in the regrets of yesterday. The Bible teaches not to be over-ambitious about tomorrow. Celebrate the “small” things in life because one day you’ll realize they were the “big” things. Laugh often, love outrageously and give extravagantly. Every day, tell your loved ones how much they mean to you!

Happiness rule #7. Give more than you receive. The greatest joy in life is in our giving. No man is awarded for what he takes but what he gives. Winston Churhill said, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” When we deliver more than expected we’re setting ourselves up for happiness. Share your time, talent and treasure. For God so loved the world that He gave… If you want to be like God – give!

As you can see, there’s no deep secret to happiness for our lives. It’s you who holds the key to your own happiness. When we surrender ourselves to God’s will and live to bless others we will find the ultimate fulfillment in life.

“How happy is the man who has put his trust in the LORD” (Psalm 40:4 Holman).

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Reach Out to the Prodigals

We all know people who used to be on top, active, serving their family, church and community. Then life happened and they just fell off the radar. We lose touch with people quickly. Sadly, many people never “recover” because they went through some setbacks and nobody reached out to them. This is really tragic!

 

When God brings people to your mind, take on the prodigals. We don’t know what hell people go through in life. When we take the time to reconnect with them, it brings hope and healing into their lives. Instead of having a superior attitude, we can minister to them and bring them back to the blessings of God. The Bible says, “Those who lead many to righteousness, will shine like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).

 

When people go through tough times, they tend to withdraw. We’re not accustomed to connect on a deeper level. We’re superficial. If someone’s going through a difficult time, we don’t like to get involved. We think, “It is none of our business.” We should not be busybody but we should always try to reach out to our brothers and sisters. Most of the time people want to help but they don’t know how. Today we will look at a few simple ways we can bring back the prodigals.

Tell people you love them. This is the most powerful phrase you can ever tell a human being. During their time of trouble, people don’t need our mouth; they need our shoulders. The closest thing to the heart of God is hurting, sighing and crying people. If we can somehow communicate that we love them regardless of why they’ve fallen away; we can win people back. When we’re winning a person back to God, we need to be extra sensitive to their feelings. They have been hurt. Now is not the time to preach. They need our love and affirmation. Love conquers all!

I have a friend in Nepal who was invited to the church as a young man. At the time this young man was a drug addict. His friend kept inviting him to church in a very mild manner way. My friend came to church just to get his friend off his back. Before he entered the church, my friend noticed everybody took off their shoes outside the church. This is the culture there. Always needing money for a fix, my friend took mental note of the nice shoes and decided to leave church early to steal those shoes. When the service started my friend experienced an amazing peace during worship. Tears began to run down his cheeks. But his mind was still on the shoes he was going to steal. Although he wanted to leave, the Holy Spirit convinced him to stay another ten minutes and anther ten and another ten… When the service finally ended, my friend went down the aisle to give his life to the Lord. Today, after twenty five years, my friend is a pastor, supervising many churches. Consider how it all got started. It happened because a friend cared enough to reach out to another. I’ve learned that God will work on people but it is our responsibility to put people in the right environment.

Yesterday, I was making some phone calls to invite friends to come to a men’s group I go to. Some of my friends have not been there for a while. Being the man of faith that I am, I wasn’t expecting a positive response from most of them. But almost everyone I called was glad to hear my voice. Most of them committed to come to our group. I’m looking forward to reconnect them to God again. Men need other men to stay on fire. It didn’t cost me anything to make a phone call. Imagine what we can achieve collectively if we all took a little time to call on our prodigal brothers and sisters.

Another way we can bring lost souls back is by giving them a sense of belonging. Let them know we need them. I remember a TV show from the eighties called Cheers – where everybody knows your name. This is what is missing in many relationships. People don’t feel like they belong. I know churches where thousands attend and thousands leave from the back door never to return. Why is that? People never felt like they belong there. They didn’t feel needed. When we send them a card, a phone call or just show up at their door unannounced, they know we care and they will return. When people stop noticing you, missing you and caring for you then you’re in real trouble.

Friend, let’s reach out to the prodigals in our lives. With just a little bit of effort, we can win them back to the fold. If you are a prodigal yourself, let me reach out to you. We’re not here to condemn you. We’re here to bless you, lift you up and help you. Nothing you’ve done can separate you from the love of God. We’re here for you! Friends, let’s reach out to the prodigals in our lives!

 

“I have seen what they do, but I will heal them anyway! I will lead them. I will comfort those who mourn” (Isaiah 57:18 NLT).

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