Don’t Curse the Wind

When things are not going our way, we tend to think God has forgotten us. Our lives are out of control, therefore, God must be mad at us. This may be how we feel but we serve a God who is intimately involved in every affair of our lives.

At the turn of the century, cod fish were in high demand on the east coast. News of this tasty fish spread across the country, all the way to the west coast. However, there was a problem. How could they get the fish across the country and still keep it fresh? They tried to freeze the fish and send it by rail, the fastest means at the time. When it was prepared, it turned out to be very mushy and lacking in flavor. Then someone decided to ship the fish live — turning railroad cars into huge saltwater aquariums. When the cod fish arrived, they were still alive but when prepared, they were still mushy and tasteless. After studying the cod fish someone discovered that their natural enemy was the catfish. This time when the cod fish were put in the tanks, they placed a few catfish in with them. Those catfish chased the cod fish across the country all the way to the west coast. This time when they were prepared, they were flaky and had the same flavor as they did when they were caught fresh and prepared on the east coast. You see, the catfish kept the cod from becoming stale. The catfish kept them fresh.

This may sound like a bad news to you but let me assure you, God will never allow more “catfish” into your life than you can handle. The sickness, financial difficulty, divorce, pain, and problems are there, not to destroy you, but to propel you into your ultimate victory. Shift happens! But nothing happens to you, everything happens for you.

I travel quite a bit. At times, the pilot would announce that our flight would take longer because the tail-wind was against us. It’s disheartening to think we have to sit on the long stretch of a flight for an extra hour or two. However, there are times when the pilot announces that the journey will be shortened because the tail-wind is in our favor.

We don’t want to wait. We like for everything to be instant. Fortunately, God is not Burger King. You can’t have it your way and eat it too! The same God who is in control of our lives in the good times is in control of our lives in our “bad” times. He is orchestrating our lives. He promised never to leave us nor forsake us. He would never allow the difficult things into our lives unless He could use them to deliver us. God is always looking at our best interest. He will never let us end in a minus; with God, we’re always going to be plus. What looks like a setback now is actually a setup. The same wind that is blowing against you will propel you to a place of greater blessing and influence.

Have you ever been lost while driving? When we find ourselves confused, what do we do? We look for our GPS, don’t we? When we type the right destination into that little device, it automatically calculates another route to get us there in approximately the same time, if not sooner. Even when we’ve made a mistake, the GPS will correct our course and take us to the right destination. Friend, God has already pre-programmed you for health, success, peace, and prosperity. His Word is like the GPS. The Bible is the Guide Book for life! I encourage you to read the life-manual for directions in your life. It will give you strength and purpose. His Word will lead and guide you and act as an umpire. Even when we make a bad choice or fall victim to others, He will still get us to our original destination on time. He is never out of sight from our lives. He controls the wind and the “catfish” in our lives!

Remember, the kite only rises against the wind. Only dead fish float downstream. A rainbow is visible only after the rain. My challenge to you today is not to curse the wind. Every negative situation in your life is not from the devil. The enemy may have meant it for harm but God is going to make sure the tail-wind is in your favor and you get to your desired destination safely and on time. The “catfish” are there only to will keep you fresh. You don’t have to figure everything out. The Master Designer of your life has it all figured out. He will take your trials and cause you to triumph. Your trial will become your testimony. Your tears will turn into your treasure. Your pain will produce a purpose. Enjoy the journey my friend! God is not only with you, He is for you. I love you and I’m praying for you.

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (I Corinthians 10:13 ESV).

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God Has Provisions Waiting for You

None of us know what is in our future. We all worry – some more than others. Worrying is not a sign of weakness. However, if we want to live a peaceful, joyful, and productive life then we have to learn that God will take care of us.

When we learn to depend on God, we will live a carefree life. When we do not allow stress and our circumstances to dictate our lives, then we can enjoy every day. Today, no matter what you’re facing, you must know that God has provisions waiting for you!

At work, you may have a challenging boss, co-workers, or a hard task. You may not see how to get past that negative situation every day. Sales may be slow and the market may be down. You may not have had a commission in a long time. You’re beginning to feel fatigued and get discouraged. Today, I have good news for you. Recently, a friend told me “Sandy, my boss is amazed! I’ve been at my work for only a few weeks and I’m already selling more than the people who have been there much longer!” I told him what I’m telling you, “You have the Joseph anointing. It’s not you, but God’s favor is working on your behalf.” It’s good to work hard and give our due diligence but when you call in God’s favor, He will go to work with you! Don’t complain, instead, stay in faith that God has 101 ways to multiply your efforts. Do your best and let God do the rest. God has provisions waiting for you!

Once, a man of God in the Bible was affected by a famine in the land. God told him to go to a city called Zarephath, where He had chosen a widow to supply his needs. When Elijah got there, the poor widow was collecting wood to make the last meal for her son and die. Elijah said to the widow, “First make me some bread and then your supply will never run dry as long as the famine last.” Amazingly, the poor widow agreed! She took care of Elijah and her supply never ran out. Friend, is there a famine in your life? Has it been difficult to pay your bills? Are you robbing Paul to pay Peter? Are you struggling hand to mouth? Today I want to encourage you. God has provisions waiting for you. My challenge to you is will you look to God as your Provider?

Some of you are concerned about the spiritual welfare of your family members. Pray for them. Be an example but don’t worry about them. God has provisions waiting for you. I heard of a young man that got into trouble and landed in prison. The family was very distraught and kept praying that God would save his life. In the prison, this young man and another inmate got in a fight over the remote control while debating what show to watch. In the middle of their heated argument, a large man walked into the scene. He grabbed the remote control from them. Petrified, the young man was leaving the room when the large man grabbed him and said with a gruff voice, “Sit down!” He started flipping through the stations and found an inspirational channel. The young man was convicted. He remembered his family trying to tell him about the Lord. He broke down and began to cry! Right there in the prison, the large man led the young man to the Lord!

Friend, God has provision ready for you. What do you need today? If you’re fighting a sickness, God will heal. If you’re having a problem in your relationship, God will restore. If you’re lacking and struggling to pay your bills; if your business is slow, God will bring increase. He has financial abundance waiting for you. If you are struggling with a long-term addiction, freedom awaits you. I request that you do two simple things: give your due diligence and then turn it over to God. Say it with me, “My God shall supply ALL my needs. I will obey and honor God with my life and He will honor me.” Now sing with me, “Don’t worry, be happy!” I’m praying for you my friend. God has provisions waiting for you!

“Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (Philippians 4:6 NLT).

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It’s Time to Believe Again

The longer we live, the more opportunities we have to develop a sour attitude towards life. If we believe in our circumstances more than we believe in God’s promises, we will be easily frustrated and live a defeated life.

Bryan Adams starts off singing, “I’m a soldier - wounded so I must give up the fight. There's nothing more for me - lead me away... Or leave me lying here.” This is how many people live today. Too easily, they give in to their feelings and external circumstances. When we surrender to the negative circumstances of life, we rob ourselves. It is easy to wallow in self-pity but you belong to a higher class. You’re not created to drift through a life in lack and mediocrity. Adams goes on to reveal the secret. “Then from on high - somewhere in the distance, there's a voice that calls, "Remember who you are" If you lose yourself - your courage soon will follow. So be strong tonight - remember who you are! Yeah you're a soldier now - fighting in a battle to be free once more - yeah, that's worth fighting for.”

Friend, it’s time for you to believe in yourself again. Remember when you were in your teens, twenties and thirties? You had dreams. You were invincible! The sky was the limit and you pushed through your failures. You thought you were beautiful and you took care of yourself. You were a go-getter. Nothing stood between you and your aspirations. Then life happened! You hit a few bumps on the road - a broken marriage, prolonged sickness, loss of a family member, a failed business, and it sucked the life out of you. Like Job, you may have lost everything but let me remind you that you haven’t lost your God yet. Your greatest victory still lies in front of you. God has another mountain for you to conquer or else you wouldn’t be here! Like Job, He will give you back double for your trouble. Friend, it’s time to break free from your self-imposed prison and fight for what’s rightfully yours.

Next, we must put our trust in God. What we can achieve by ourselves is nothing compared to what we can do together with God. Ask for God’s favor before you make the sales call. Don’t just listen to the “experts.” Get God's opinion. Give to God what belongs to Him. Expect your business will double, triple and quadruple. Have integrity at work and God will promote you. Every area of our lives will prosper when we give preeminence to God’s Word. All His promises are yes and Amen. God told Joshua, “And don’t for a minute let this Book of The Revelation be out of mind. Ponder and meditate on it day and night, making sure you practice everything written in it. Then you’ll get where you’re going; then you’ll succeed” (Joshua 1:8 The Message).

Finally, we must believe in people. God never throws anything down from the sky. He uses people to bless us. Learn to receive. If our connections are not stretching us to be better, do more and be more then it’s time to get some new friends. Serve your spouse and children. Don’t just stop at providing for them, spend time with them. At work, serve your difficult boss with a good attitude. Get along with people who are hard to understand. Help those who are helpless! Your success is tied into theirs. Do not be critical, cynical and judgmental of others unless you want the same dished back to you. Believe in people, and give them something to live up to.

Today, reminisce your younger years! Remember when you got saved and how excited you were about God? What was it like when you first fell in love? Do you remember the pinnacle of your success? What was it like to be newlywed? Do you remember when you had no debt? I’m creating a mental picture in you. If God did it once, He will do it again. Friend, let me speak some faith into you. You will experience God again. By the stripes of Jesus you are healed. Wisdom, peace, and riches are yours. You’re debt free! You’ll lend and not borrow. Your children will be mighty in the land. You have the mind of Christ. What is impossible with man is possible with God. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. It’s time to believe again. Believe in yourself. Believe in God’s Word and believe in people. Your best days are yet to come!

Jesus said, “All things are possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23 ESV).

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And the Oscar Goes to… YOU!

Just a couple of days ago, millions of people around the globe witnessed one of the most prestigious ceremonies honoring achievements in the film industry. Winners were awarded the Academy Award of Merit, nicknamed as an Oscar.

As I read the news and watched people getting excited about their favorite actor/actresses nominated and receiving an Oscar, I could not help but think how God has an Oscar ready for each of us.

Today I want encourage you to wait patiently for your “Oscar” from God. You have labored hard. You have count the cost. You have endured temptations, kept your integrity and honored God. The angels have nominated you to be the “Best Person of the Year.” Today my job is to open the sealed envelope and declare your name to come up to the Throne of Grace boldly and accept your “Oscar!”

At work, maybe you have a difficult boss. You arrive early and leave late, but you don’t feel appreciated. No matter how hard you try, he/she’s always got more things for you to do. Your hard work is never good enough. You’re better qualified but others are promoted ahead of you. That just stinks! But the Bible says, “Promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another” (Psalm 75:6-7). Here’s the good news. If you keep a good attitude, stay in faith and work as unto the Lord, God will promote you. And who knows, you may even have the job your current boss!

I heard a story about a mechanic. He was a faithful worker. He did his job most tediously. However, his boss did not like him. His co-workers made fun of him because he wouldn’t go out and party with them. Several years went by without a raise or a promotion for this faithful employee. One day out of the blue, the owner of the company called him. They lived in another city and were not involved in the day-to-day running of the business. The owner told the mechanic that he was retiring and proposed to sell his business to him. The mechanic said, “I can’t buy your business. I don’t have that kind of money.” The owner said, “You don’t have to have money. I’ll loan it to you.” Long story short, today the mechanic owns the business free and clear. The same people who called him names now call him Boss. The people who didn’t give him the time of the day, now has to make appointments to see him. What happened? God just handed this mechanic his Oscar. Friend, don’t be discouraged. Keep a good attitude. Your name is in the envelope – the next Oscar belongs to YOU!

As you are reading this, something jumps within your heart. Do you know what that is? It is called hope. As long as you hope in your God, there will be a promotion and prize waiting for you. This is what happened to a young lady in the Bible called Ruth. Ruth had lost her husband at a young age. She honored her mother-in-law and on her own free will, she returned to Jerusalem to serve her. Every day she got out on the field in the hot sun and gleaned after the reapers. One day Boaz, the owner of the field, came to visit and Ruth caught his attention. They developed a friendship and a liking for each other. Soon after, they got married. What happened? One day Ruth was working in the field and the next day she became the owner of the field! Today, you may be a single mother, raising little ones, doing your best to make ends meet. Like Peter in the Bible, you may have toiled all night over your business and profited nothing. That sickness on your body may have kept you bound. Here’s the good news my friend. God’s got an Oscar ready for you! God sees your tears and he knows your fears. The sealed envelope has been opened and Gabriel - the messenger of good news is bringing you your recompense. Stand up. I just heard Him call your name to receive your Oscar. All of heaven is cheering for you. You’ve kept the faith and given it away. Today is your day! Will you receive the Oscar? I love you and I believe in you!

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:6 NIV).

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God Will Make it Up to You

I have just returned from a missions trip to the Killing fields of Cambodia, Communist Laos and the Land of Smiles – Thailand. This was one of the most heart-wrenching trips I have ever made. Thank you for your prayers. I cannot wait to share more with you.

In spite of the great work God is doing to change people’s lives over there, I was very touched by the suffering and injustice people have endured for decades. I told them how nothing goes unnoticed by our just God. He will turn around their fortunes and they will see better days again.

While our problems in the West are different compared to the people I just met, God is very aware and extremely concerned about the problems you are facing. God is always attentive to the cry of His people. Big or small, like a good father, God cannot see you suffer pain, loss, betrayal, lack, injustice, sickness, and sorrow. Nothing may have worked out quite the way you expected. Most things usually don’t. But sometimes what happens in the process is the good stuff!

This is what happened to the children of Israel. Due to their own folly and stubbornness of heart God allowed them to be carried away captives into Egypt. There they were in hard bondage, under their hard taskmasters. Today, whether it is your own mistake or the injustice of others, your life may be in disarray. The Good News is God cannot stand to see you suffer. He will bend over backwards to lift you out of your miry pit if you just cry out to God. That is what the Israelites did. “The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:7-8). We all know the rest of the story. God brought them out of misery and blessed them profusely. Today Egypt and all its glory are forgotten but Israel is one of the most powerful nations in the world. God will pay you back!

Alec Baldwin gained early recognition for his role in the Hunt of Red October and other movies that made him famous. However, his reputation was tarnished when a voicemail for his estranged daughter went public. In it, he called her a “rude, thoughtless little pig.” Later he regretted his words and apologized. If you are a parent, you know we all have said and done things that we are not proud of. But there are times in life when s**t happens. But here’s the key. If we stay humble, do our best and keep our hearts clean before God, He will make it up to us. Baldwin went on win Emmy Awards after his career took a remarkable turnaround. Corrie ten Boom, who suffered immensely in the hand of the Nazis, said this after her ordeal was over. “Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives, is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see.”

Friend, no matter what situation you’re facing, always remember - God never ends in a negative. He will make it up to you. God will wipe away your tears. Your business will bounce back. He will heal your sick body and bring your wayward child home. He will bring love back into your life. The debt will be eliminated and you’ll move from barely-get-by-ville to the land of more than enough. He will make up for every injustice. He will make your name great. Today I want to encourage you. Don’t blame others. Don’t even blame yourself. Don’t seek to pay people back. Watch your attitude for they become your actions. Watch your actions, for they become your habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character. And most of all, watch your character, for they become your destiny. Life may not be fair but God is. He will make it up to you. I love you and I’m praying for you!

"In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry” (Jonah 2:2 NIV).

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Think Outside the Box

Often we get stuck in a rut. When life throws us a curve, we tend to do what we have always done before or, at best, choose the path of least resistance. This may be comfortable, but if we don’t think outside of the box we could be missing out.

One of the greatest mistakes people make is that they don’t take time to think. Our lives are so full with pursuing career, activities and jammed packed schedules, that we rarely have time to reflect on our lives. When we don’t think, we yield ourselves to life in a rut. Before we know it, thirty years have flown by and we are still trying to “live” life. Today we will discuss how to think outside the box and enjoy life.

Think outside the box; inside it’s all dark! Our current job, security, marriage, friendships, health, retirement are results of the decision we made. If we don’t learn from our mistakes or live intentionally, our world will come crashing in again and again. The beauty of our God is that He always has another way. His ways are not always conventional to human thinking, and that’s why we have to be open to His ideas to lead and guide us in life.

Often we are so programmed to activities that we almost feel guilty about sitting still. When we calm our nerves and sit in the presence of God, the Holy Spirit has access to speak into our spirits. We will be in a position to make better judgment calls. We serve a Supernatural God and He wants us to live a supernatural life.

In the Bible, Jesus was going about ministering to people, when He came across a blind man. The disciples asked, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents that he was born blind?” Jesus said, “This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” Similarly, God will be glorified in the situation you are facing today. When He resolves your problem, you will brag on the goodness of your God. In this incident, Jesus spat on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it in the man’s eyes. Then he told him to go and wash in the Pool of Siloam. The man went, washed, and came home seeing! This was out of the box thinking, but God was in it all along. God may be directing you in ways that you have never considered before. Yield to the Holy Spirit and you will see results.

Years ago, my two brothers and I lived in the Land of Mt. Everest, called Nepal. We were doing missionary work there. We didn’t have a lot of resources available, and one day we just ran out of money. There was only a handful of rice. We looked at each other and thought God had let us down that day. Trying to be religious, one of us opened the Bible to read something, and out fell a ten dollar local currency bill! We didn’t know how it got there, but straightaway we went and bought ten eggs. I still remember how good they tasted! Today I can look back and say, that was God thinking outside the box, providing for our needs.

Friend, what impossible situation are you facing today? This year, God is doing a new thing. Let me declare a blessing over you. He will heal your sick body in a supernatural way. He will provide you a job from unexpected sources. He will bring you a life partner you’ve been praying for. Your legal situation will work out in your favor. There will be a transfer of wealth, and your debt will disappear. You’ll move from living in an apartment to your dream home. Your children will serve God. You will go on the missions trip you’ve been planning on. Let God take charge of your life. His ways are higher than ours. His plans are better than our plans for ourselves. If you think outside the box and believe in the promises of God, you’ll eat the fruit thereof.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him” (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV).

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Adopted Into the Family

God made human hearts to belong. Yet many people go through life feeling lonesome and deserted. They do not feel loved or worthy to experience anything good in life. If they get any good brakes in life, they wait for the other shoe to fall out.

When we live with a nagging feeling inside thinking we are not good enough; we’re not worthy of anything good, we are sabotaging our own future. When become born again, we become part of God’s family. We are new creature with new feature. Regardless of our earthly parents, we inherit a new bloodline. God’s DNA becomes ours. When we are not thinking, talking and acting like God, we are belittling Him.

A few months ago, our neighborhood cat gave birth to some cute little kittens. My children begged me to keep them. Reluctantly I agreed. Now they are the greatest source of entertainment. At times when my kids come home, the kitties get more attention than I do. I feel jealous! Seriously, one thing I love about these cats: somehow they know that they belong to our family. When the fridge or the pantry door is opened they boldly show up and usually get what they want. At times, when I’m sitting on the couch working on my computer, they cuddle up next to me or try to climb over my body and sniff my nose! They have no inhibition. They have no fear acting like they belong. They should have been stray cats fending for themselves but thanks to my kids, they are living a royal life!

The Scripture says that while we were yet sinners, Christ loved us. He gave up heaven for us. He lived a sinless life. He took the beatings on His body for our healing. He offered up His life for our Salvation. When we come into the family of God, we inherit everything heaven has. We are grafted into the family of God. In heaven, there is no crying, sighing or dying. There is no lack, sickness or betrayal. There is no sin, addiction or mental torment. Heaven is where God lives and His peace and tranquility rules over everything. I’m not saying when we have Jesus we will not face any problem. What I am saying is in spite of our troubles; we can experience heaven on earth. The Holy Spirit of God who lives in us is our Comforter and our Helper.

Friend, you may not feel much today. Life may have battered you down. You may be facing some impossible situations. Remember, that you have been adopted into the family. You are the child of the Most High. You belong to the Royalty. You and God are family. You are joint heir to the throne along with Big Brother Jesus. Have no fear. Like our cats, cuddle up next to God and sniff His nose! Go to His storehouse boldly. Membership has its privileges. You have access. Everything God’s belongs to you. He is not a stingy God; He is the God of abundance!

This all may sound good but you ask, “Sandy, how do I appropriate all that God has for me?” Thank you for asking. Receive! Just receive. One of the greatest hindrances to receiving from God is our stinking thinking. We think we are not worthy. We think we have to perform. We think we have to bribe God with good behavior. These are good religious thoughts but they are like filthy rags to God. We can never impress God with our good works. We can only receive by faith what He made available through the Cross. We either chose to belong to the family of God and enjoy His blessings or we go through life struggling thinking life sucks!

Today, let me challenge you to come before the throne of God boldly in times of your need. God is craving for your attention and your dependency on Him. God wants to heal your sick body. He wants to wipe away your tears. He wants to be your husband. He will provide for you abundantly. He is the Defender of the weak. His strength is made perfect in your weakness. You are a royalty! You are adopted into the family of God. He is waiting to heal your pain and fill you with His purpose. Will you receive? I pray and proclaim; you will experience everything God has for you. In Jesus’ name!

“But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind” (Isaiah 40:31 The Message).

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10 Ways to Eliminate Holiday Stress

Thanksgiving and Christmas are some of the most joyous times of the year. Holidays are a lot of fun but they’re also very stressful in modern times. Many people endure the holidays instead of enjoying them.

We live in a fast-track society. If we’re not careful we let busy-ness run over most savoring moments of our lives. Instead of enjoying each other, we feel drained and dread our times together. Today, let’s discuss how to keep peace in a stressful time.

1. Keep the right perspective. Holidays are about making memories. It’s not the time to display perfect housekeeping or how late you can work to provide for your family. Better is a little where there is joy, love and laughter than a house full of strife. Celebrate what you have and each other.

2. Be like Santa. Make a list. When we take time to write down and prioritize the zillion things we’ve to do, it makes it easier for us to accomplish certain tasks within a certain time. Make a list of gifts to buy, people to invite and chores to do. A “To Do” list provides direction and reduces stress.

3. Delegate the jobs. Don’t try to be a superman or a super woman trying to do everything yourself. Be secure. When we engage others, we allow them to create memories together. Communicate clearly who does what and by when. Post your job list in a prominent place such as your fridge or water dispenser in the office.

4. Have a relaxed, easy going attitude. People will make mistake. Things will go wrong. When we jump on each other over spilled milk, we’re destroying the memory of our times together. It’s easier to replace broken things than to repair broken people. People are the most important thing to celebrate.

5. Overlook offense. Holidays are emotionally charged times. Somebody will say or do something offensive. Forgive quickly. Don't hold a grudge. Make up your mind not to fall in the trap of getting into an argument. Unite not divide! Now is not the time to voice your opinion on who should be the next President or who should be the next player in our favorite NFL team.

6. Keep a positive environment. I’ve had to ask people to change the subject when they get into a negative conversation with me. Great people discuss plans, visions, ideas and accomplishments of others. Small people talk about themselves and the faults of others. If you join in the gossip, eventually they’ll talk about you.

7. Spend time not money. Money and expensive gifts don’t buy happiness. Have a budget for gifts. Love is not expressed in price tag. Time spent together making and building a family tradition is cherished for a lifetime. Put up the Christmas tree, bake and make special food together. Jump in the family wagon and drive around the neighborhoods to rate their lighting decorations. The internet is full of ideas.

8. Take time for yourself. Only you are responsible for your own happiness. Don’t sacrifice yourself at the altar of responsibility. When you’re fulfilled, you serve better.

9. Give thanks. Recognize and vocalize that all of the blessings in our lives are a gift from God. When we gather together and acknowledge Him, we make God proud. Thanksgiving ensures that the blessings will continue to flow and sets Godly tradition.

10. Reach out to others. Holidays are most depressing times for some. Make sure to include people you know who are less fortunate. Get in a group together and pick people to make them your “Christmas Project.” You can also consider partnering with Build International Ministries and bring the message of Hope to men, women and children in Asia who have never heard the name of Jesus.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1 NIV).

Click Here to Reach the Most Unreached: www.buildinternational.org

Invite Sandy Anderson to Speak: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

 

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Staying in Peace

We all have the opportunity to get upset, stressed out and irritable. Storms of life can hit us every once in a while but we don’t have to allow the storm to get in us. When we’re in peace, we’re in a position of power.

The other day I had some concerns in my mind when I allowed the enemy to steal my peace. I got irritable and took it out on my son Daniel. He couldn’t understand why I was so nit-picky about stuff normally I don’t care about. Later I had to apologize to him for allowing things to get out of hand. When we lose our peace, people who are closest to us end up paying the price. This is not a good way live.

Recently I was in India and a gigantic typhoon hit the state right next to where we were. We barely escaped! Everything on its path was rooted out. Millions of people lost their homes and many lost their lives. It is sad that people who have so little to start with can lose so much! A storm can be devastating but in the center of a storm is what is called the “eye of the storm.” In spite of its destructive behavior the eye of the storm is as calm as it can be. In the same way, when our lives are rooted and grounded in God’s Word, we can remain calm in spite of storm all around us.

Jesus was on a boat in the middle of the sea when a great storm arose. The disciples were helter-skelter trying to keep the boat from sinking. When things got out of hand they realized Jesus was in the boat! They woke Him up and complained, “Don’t you care we’re about to die?” How many times we do the same! If they only knew who was in the boat with them! Following God doesn’t mean absence of troubles but it means presence of God in the midst of our storms. Jesus was in tuned with God, He rebuked the storm and everything calmed down. Submit to God and rebuke your storm!

One of the greatest peace stealer in our lives is our finances. When we’re worried monetarily, we can be in great turmoil. Too much or too little of funds can steal our peace. No matter how much or how little finances we have, it will do us good to remember, God owns it all. We’re merely stewards to manage what belongs to God. A barely get by mindset will always steal our peace for not having enough; greed will have the same effect on us. The best way to have peace regarding our finances is to be content with what we have while pursuing to get what we want.

Another area that robs our peace is our relationships. People who are closest to us can be the greatest source of conflict. In these times, it will serve us good to remember that we’re on the same team. Relationships flare up when one or both parties are troubled about something. Seek first to understand before you seek to be understood. When we fight with our loved ones, we’re shooting friendly fires. Don’t let that be you.

Physical illness can be a great source of discouragement. Since our body, soul and spirit are interconnected, it’s easy to lose our peace when we’re not feeling good. This is the time to communicate how we’re feeling. Most of the time, people around us will give us more space if they know that we’re not feeling up to par. A key to getting well is not to dwell on our sickness. We’ll produce whatever we meditate on. You cannot talk sickness all the time and expect to have health. Faith comes by whatever we hear ourselves talk… (Sandy’s version)!

Friend, nothing is more regretful than to live our lives all stressed out, worried, creating havoc in our own lives and those we love. I challenge us all to stress-proof our lives. Before we say anything, let us consider how it affects the other person. Have an abundance mindset. Don’t let your situation dictate your life. Don’t respond to everything ugly you read or hear. Be the big person and don’t repay evil for evil. When you’re in peace, you’re in a position of power.

“Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord” (Hebrew12:14 NLT).

Click Here to Reach the Most Unreached: www.buildinternational.org

Invite Sandy Anderson to Speak: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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Health is Wealth

God created us in different shape, size and form. We’re not supposed to look like Barbie doll but we’re all supposed to live healthy. Our body is not only where we live but it is also where God lives. We’re responsible to take care of our health.

We’re all made up of body, mind, spirit and soul. Therefore, it is not just enough to focus on physical exercise we need to also pay attention to our mental and spiritual health. Today, let’s discuss some of the major areas we can improve our health.

Get active. There’s a tremendous awareness in our society about the benefit of staying fit. Many of you my friends are shining example of staying fit. Facebook is full of entries of exercise triumphs. I love it! Some of my friends are exercising both for them and me. Most of us however need to make an effort for it. I’m not greatly motivated to exercise but I’ve realized this, if I don’t do what’s needed now, I’ll live shorter and unproductive life. Here’s the simple key. Exercise! No matter what you do, how long and how often – get active. Anything you do is better than nothing.

Don’t worry! Worry and stress will send you early to grave. We’re all tempted to worry about something every day. When we worry, we change nothing. A Nepalese proverb says, “The tiger in our mind is bigger than the tiger in the jungle.” We often worry about things that have no basis for it.

Yesterday, I had lunch with an old friend. I had brought my laptop with me to show him some pictures of what God was doing on the mission field. I had put my computer down by my chair and when we got done visiting, I completely forgot about my laptop. I drove almost fifteen minutes before I remembered my laptop. I start to worry. I took a sharp U-turn but I was distraught. I had all my important documents in my laptop. Negative stories of my friends loosing stuff began to flood my mind. The tigers in my mind were becoming bigger and bigger. Finally, I remembered what I often advise people to do – prayer! I prayed briefly and asked God to protect my laptop. When I returned to the restaurant, I looked under my table and there was no computer. I panicked! When I asked the staff at the counter, she said, “What color is your computer?” I said, “It’s an HP, gray color.” Immediately, she handed me my computer. I was so relieved! I thanked God and walked away happy. The point of this story is: we can worry or we can pray. Prayer brings results worry destroys our health.

Watch your intake. A great emphasis has been put on our eating intake. It’s important that we eat and drink healthy. A lot more sinister enemy is what we feed our minds. When we watch negative news reports over and over, when we indulge in trash TV and internet we damage ourselves much greater than bad choices of food. It’s ok to stay current with news and world affairs but don’t get addicted to negative media or attitude. Keep a positive picture of yourself and the world. Protect your mental health by guarding what you read, listen and watch. The movies that play in your mind most frequently will be the reality you’ll live in life. Turn off the negative feeds.

Serve others. One of the most selfish things you can do for yourself is to serve others. When you help others, you release a happy hormone called endorphin. A sense of purpose, self-worth and significance will rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Reach out to at least one person every day. When you’re a blessing to others, God Himself will bless you. Friends, let’s take care of our body. Our health is our wealth!

“Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you” (Exodus 23:25 NIV).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Invite Sandy Anderson to Speak: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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Your Harvest is Ready

The changing weather in Texas is very welcomed by all. Going from scorching heat to a pleasant weather is a long-waited relief. Everywhere you go there’s a sense of celebration. It is the harvest season!

Often what goes on in the natural is a picture of what’s going on in the spiritual realm. Just as in the natural it is the harvest season, I believe many of our friends are about to enter into your season of harvest. You’re going to throw aside the rags of lack, mediocrity and needs and embrace the abundance God has prepared for you. This is your time. You’ll reap the blessings of all the hard labor you’ve put into planting and nurturing your seed. Your harvest is ready!

Long time ago, I lived in the beautiful country of Nepal. Its people are very poor and the main livelihood is agriculture. I will never forget the joy, celebration and excitement during the harvest season. The whole family is out in the field. There’s a sense of celebration. They may be living off the bottom of the barrel but they know that their harvest is coming and everything will be alright. You too my friend, is about to enter into your season of harvest.

Some of our co-workers in India work among the slum dwellers. They minister to the poorest of the poor who spend all their day looking through the garbage or doing menial jobs. Their ambition is to find something – in the trash. Our evangelists are faithful to share the Gospel with them. By the grace of God a large number of slum-dwellers have come to know the Lord. Their prayer to God has been for a better life. You know, there’s a special place in God’s heart for the poor. One day the slum-believers got news that the government was going to widen the road and their little shacks were going to be demolished. They’re in total despair! But they prayed and trusted the Lord for their safety and protection. Not many days from the “bad news” they got another report. The local government was going to give them substantial amount of money so each of them can have their brick and mortar house. They also promised one government job (steady income) for each family for the rest of their lives for the inconvenience of having to move away from their “homes.” What looked like a disaster for the slum-dwelling believers became a huge blessing from the Lord.

You may be facing a financial challenge. Some of you’re going through a health issue. Others of you are staring at a problem that’s not going away. The legal problem seems to be going against you. Friend, I’ve got good news for you. You’re about to enter into a season of harvest. God is going to wipe away your tears and cause you dance for joy. He is going to make your crooked path straight. He will make a river in the desert. God is going to release abundance upon you in such measure that it will thrust you years ahead. Get ready for your harvest. When it comes, you’ll be stunned at the goodness of God. Start praising Him now!

This is what happened to the children of Israel in bondage. They’re grinding stones, making bricks and God saw their misery. Something about our struggles that touches the Father heart of God. You know the story. He raised Moses to deliver His people out of bondage into the Promised Land. When they left, they didn’t just leave empty handed. Their captors handed them all their treasures. When you’re in peace with God and obedient to His commands, He will cause even your enemies to be good to you. It was the greatest exploits in history!

Friend, you’re precious to God. He knows your situation. He cares about you greatly. He is your heavenly Father. This is your season of harvest. Do not fret. Do not worry. Welcome the season of harvest. Just like the farmers in Nepal and the slum-dwellers in India, God will turn your mourning into dancing. Like the Israelites, He will vindicate you. There’s a sweet sense of change in the air. Get ready for your season of harvest. When it comes it will change everything in your life.

“You know the saying, 'Four months between planting and harvest.' But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest” (John 4:35 NLT).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Book Sandy Anderson as Speaker: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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