Don’t Neglect Your Family

At the end of the day, regardless of our success in carrier or business, our family is all we will have left. They are the highest contributors to our success but sometimes least appreciated people in our world. Let’s not take our family for granted.

One of the best ways we can show our appreciation to our family members is through our praise. Remember, people do more of what you brag about and less of what you nag about. Lavish your praise for your family. Thank, appreciate and encourage them both in private and in public – daily, several times a day.

Another way you can add value to your family is to offer your act of services in the home front. Men, it’s not enough to be the breadwinner of our family. We’re also to provide security, emotional support and practical help around the house. Ladies, your man needs your admiration and appreciation. Tell him how proud and confident you are of his abilities and sacrifices. If you want A+ kids like mine, catch them doing something good. Praise them and correct them. Never allow rebellion to take root. You’re the boss; you make the adult decisions. Children need boundaries. They will bring you immense joy! You’re to enjoy them not endure them.

Last but not the least, overlook a few faults. Listen, don’t sabotage 80% good in your relationship in exchange for 20%. None of us are perfect. Instead of harping on their faults, just pick up the dirty sock or help your wife find that car key that’s always missing. You can turn your home into a battlefield or you can choose to cover for your loved ones and make a beautiful harmony of your lives.

Friend, nobody gets to choose their family. No matter what you think, they are a gift from God. Like, enjoy and celebrate your family. When the world sees us loving our family, they will glorify God and want to be part of His family.

Help us spread the message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

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Build Better Relationships

The quality of our lives depends on the quality of relationships we build. The better relationship we have with people the more excellent life we will enjoy on earth. So what can we do to build better relationships?

1. Treat everyone with respect. Best relationships are based on mutual trust and respect. When we treat the other person whom God created equally with respect, we take the first step toward building a strong relationship. When we respect people, we don’t let things fly off the handle. We pause, think and consider the outcome before we act.

2. Invest in others. Jesus said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Good relationships are based on sowing and reaping. What we invest in a relationship is what we get out of it. Everyone wants to be on the receiving end of the Golden Rule but our mindset should be the opposite. Don’t worry about getting back. Just stay focused on giving and you will invariably receive.

3. Give people some room to grow. None of us are perfect. No matter how close a relationship is, there will be opportunity for misunderstanding, hurt and disappointment. Guard against such things to happen. But inevitably when things do get sour, overlook the wrong, forgive and stay committed to the relationship.

The grass may look greener on the other side but remember that you still need to water it. Invest in the relationships God has given you and you will live a more fulfilled life.

Help us spread the message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

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Take Your Limits Off

Great dreams and desires have been robbed because of our limited thinking. God speaks to all of us. We get inspired. We start believing. But somewhere in life’s journey, we lose the faith and excitement that we passionately once had.

We begin to rationalize, “I’ll never be in health again. My business has seen better days. My child has gone too far. My family member will never be saved. I’ll have to work till I die.” If you’ve wrestled with thoughts like these, you’re only a human. But remember, there’s also a divine side to you. There is a God who lives in and through you. Impossible is nothing when you allow God to make your dreams a reality.

Yesterday, I was visiting with a friend. We discussed how much business he wanted to do in 2013. Our first session was to maintain the production of last year. As we discussed, faith arose. We were able to double our expectation and then some more for this year. We agreed and sealed it in prayer. I know my friend will achieve what we have agreed upon because his heart is tied to world missions – something that is near and dearest to God’s heart.

Scripture says, “Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4 NIV). Instead of fear and doubt, why don’t you take the limits off of yourself and begin to meditate on faith and God-fidence? Here’s the key, don’t try to figure out how it will happen. Just trust God by faith to bring it to pass. Give your faith a facelift. Expect more from God; commit to do more for God’s Kingdom. Take your limits off. I’m praying for you!

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God Has a Need

Our human nature is to think about God when we are in trouble or in need of some favor. God is so big hearted that He doesn’t mind us remembering Him only in time of our needs. But in the heart of hearts, God wants us to acknowledge Him at all times.

Our God is so big and strong that He can do anything. He created the universe. He created you and me. He holds our future in His hands. In spite of being so big and powerful, there is one thing God cannot do. He cannot force us to love and worship Him. He has left us to our freewill to choose that.

This is why it is so important for us to recognize that God needs us. He is Almighty but He cannot buy love. Only we can give Him our love, devotion and commitment to follow Him. Today, I’m challenging you to worship God for who He is and not for what He can do for you. Do not only seek His hands but instead let’s seek His face.

This is hard for our finite mind to understand but like Adam, God wants to fellowship with us. He wants your attention, recognition and your loyalty. When we give Him our freewill worship, God will move heaven and earth to assist us. The more we worship, the less we will have to worry! Let’s worship God today and every day of our lives.

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Living a Life of Significance

Whether we want to think about it or not, our lives are racing toward eternity. We cannot take anything with us but what we leave behind in people will live on after us.

This is why it is so important for every Christian to be involved in world missions. Statistic shows less than ten percent of believers in America will ever lead a person to Christ. Yet there’s a world-wide revival taking place right now. What can we do to make a global and eternal impact?

Partnership! I believe the body of Christ world-wide needs to work in partnership to proclaim the message of forgiveness, hope and deliverance. This year our goal is to reach 300,000 people with the Gospel. Most of them have never heard the name of Jesus – once!

The Bible says, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed” (Romans 10:14 NKJV)? I encourage you to share your time, talent and treasure to touch our world for Jesus. When you partner with a native missionary, they become your personal soul winner. This is an investment opportunity from out of this world that you cannot afford to pass out.

Partner with a native missionary today: http://www.buildinternational.org/nativemissionary.html

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Take Care of Your Health

Our health is our greatest asset. If you lose your health, you lose your ability to be productive. Our body, spirit and mind are interconnected. Our body is not only where we live but it is also where God lives. If we don’t feel good, it will affect our spirituality.

A few days ago one of my friends told me, “Brother Sandy, will you please pray for me, I’m drawn to junk food easily.” Of course I prayed for my friend. But I also recommended not storing junk food in the house. When we discipline ourselves in what we eat and drink, we’ll develop new healthy habits. What we eat makes a great difference to how our body feels.

Another area that will greatly affect our health is exercise. We live in a very sedentary society. This is why it is very important to get some form of physical exercise on a regular basis. Don’t compare with others; just do what’s best suitable for you. Be committed and do it consistently.

Sleep not only makes you beautiful but it’s the best way to release stress which is one of the main causes of disease. Sleep is like rebooting your computer. When you wake up, everything works better. You’re not wasting time when you sleep; you’re energizing your battery. Sleep is nature’s way to heal your body.

Here’s a great promise from God’s Word for divine health in 2013: “You shall serve the LORD your God, and he will bless your bread and your water, and I will take sickness away from among you” (Exodus 23:25 ESV).

Help us spread the message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

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Don’t be Driven by Money.

We live in such materialistic society where everything is measured by our financial net worth. But this is not how God looks at our value. We’ve made money into an idol but money is one of the least common denominators in the Kingdom of God.

Don’t misunderstand me. I’m not against having money. But when money has you, we are off balance. Don’t live to make a living instead, live to make a life. If you have good health – you’re rich. If your children are doing well – you’re rich. If you have work and food to put on the table, you’re rich. If you have integrity – you’re rich. If you have Christ in your heart – you’re super rich!

This year, let me challenge you to raise the bar. Don’t just pray, work and believe God for your own needs. Trust God for abundance so you can be a blessing to others. You know a secret? There are not many, who God can trust to become rich. Why don’t you become one? God wants to get to you so He can give through you. Follow God and let the money follow you! Here’s a promise for you, “But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18 NIV).

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You’re a No-limit Person

World’s greatest opportunities pass us by simply because we don’t believe we’ve got what it takes. Self-limiting thoughts have crippled many geniuses from out of their closet. Yet, it is God’s desire that we discover and unlock the potential He put in us.

Most of us got our self-doubt from people around us. Some were well-meaning people trying to help us. Sometimes our own faults and mistakes can hold us back from going for greatness. But I have good news for you today. You’ve got what it takes. You can do anything if you take corresponding action and ask God to bless your efforts.

For forty plus years, I didn’t know I had a gift for writing. But after all these years, God allowed me to unveil my talent in writing. Then he put me together with other writers to co-author a book. On January 15^th Power of Inspiration, Dare to Be the Best You will be available on Amazon.com.

Friend, don’t limit yourself or God working in you. Give into to the gentle reminders of the Holy Spirit. God has an amazing future for you to unlock. Believe and pursue the dreams God put in your heart. You’re a no-limit person. I believe in you!

Order Your Copy of Power of Inspiration, Dare to Be the Best You: http://www.amazon.com/Power-Inspiration-Dare-Best-YOU/dp/0615743226/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358134155&sr=8-1&keywords=power+of+inspiration+dare+to+be+the+best+you#reader_0615743226

Evaluate Your Spiritual Fitness

This is a good time of the year to take a spiritual fitness test. One way to gauge our spirituality is to figure out how detached we are from material things.

When we’re in love with God, we love His Word. We love to obey and please Him in our daily lives. When we love God, we long to spend time in prayer with Him. When we love God, we love to talk about His love with people, who do not know Him yet. When we love God, we’ll love His people and the work of His Kingdom. When we love God, we take risk and make sacrifices to help the world-wide body of Christ.

If we love our comfortable lifestyle more than we love God, we’re off balance. If we love money more than God, we’re sick spiritually. If our work, popularity and prestige are more important than associating with God’s people, we got our priorities wrong. Now is a good time to tune up our spiritual health.

Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34 NIV). Friend, set your mind on things above. Everything you have, you’ll soon have to leave behind. Heaven is our glorious Hope. Will you be recognized in heaven for the way you lived your life here on earth?

Spread the message of hope and healing: www.buildinternational.org  

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Get Involved in World Missions

Yesterday, I was having dinner with some friends. At one point the wife looked at her husband and said, “Can I tell him?” Then she proceeded to tell me how they do not have to make a certain monthly payment on something that was now paid for. She said, “Brother Sandy, we want to double our commitment to Build International Ministries this year with the money we are saving.” My friends are not rich but they have their priorities in the right place. I know they’ll experience God’s favor in 2013.

God’s Spirit is on me; he’s chosen me to preach the Message of good news to the poor, Sent me to announce pardon to prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, To set the burdened and battered free, to announce, “This is God’s year to act!” (Luke 4:18-19 Message).

If you want to see God’s power operate in your life like never before, do yourself a favor and get involved in reaching our crying, sighing and dying world. As disciples of Christ every Christian needs to do the following:

1. We must relate to wider body of Christ to fulfill the Great Commission.

2. We must respond to the suffering of our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ.
3. We must use our resources to reach those who have never heard the Gospel – once!

When we respond to God’s heart for the poor, persecuted and lost humanity, “God will act on our behalf.” He will pay you back for the sacrifices you make.

Get Involved in World Missions: www.buildinternational.org

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Tell Your Heart to Beat Again

Disappointing things happen to all of us. Loss of health or a loved one, insurmountable debt, troubled relationship or a broken dream can suck the life right out of us. No matter what hand life has dealt you, do not loose heart and passion for life.

As you start this New Year, don’t waste your time focusing on what didn’t work out – what didn’t come to pass. Sure, learn from your past but don’t let it hold your future back. Revive the dreams that God placed on your heart. John Wesley said, “When you set yourself on fire, people love to come and see you burn.”

This is the moment you have to forget the old and discover the gold in you. People are eager to see you burn with a passion for life so they can help you. But you have to tell your heart to beat again. You have to believe and say what God says about you. “I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me” (Philippians 4:13 AMP).

Friend, you may have suffered a few setbacks in the past but in reality, they were setups for your 2013 come back! You’ve got what it takes. Tell your heart to beat and live again. Our team and I are praying for you and yours.

Help a hopeless heart to beat again: www.buildinternational.org

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Associate with the Wise

None of us have it all. There are lack and deficiencies in us that was meant to be filled by others. Successful people draw strength from the success of others. They strategically place people in their lives to catapult them to their next achievement.

For example, if you’re struggling in the area of relationship, identify people who have strong relationships and ask them to mentor you. If you do not have your finances or your health in order, seek out mentors and ask for their help. You will be amazed how willing they are to assist you if you humbly ask them!

You say, “Sandy, I don’t know anybody.” But you do! Start with your phone. It is a goldmine of wealth in your fingertips. Who do you know and admire? Ask them for help! Did you know over one billion questions are asked on Google every day? Read a book or listen to an expert on podcast. But the best is to find mentors whom you can have relationship with and meet face to face.

Scripture says, “He who walks with the wise grows wise” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV). Today, if you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. Friend, let’s make 2013 a great year of success by associating ourselves with wise people.

Mentor someone who needs YOU: www.buildinternational.org

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Set Goals and Prosper

Researchers say, ninety percent of New Year’s resolutions fizzle out before the end of January. If that is true, it is not practical for most people. If you have made resolutions, keep moving forward. For others, it’s as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

Step one. Decide what you want. Knowing your destination is half way getting there. Write down specific goals that you want to achieve in 2013. For example you want to earn X dollars more, loose X pounds of weight or win X number or souls. Be specific.

Step two. Declare what you want. You may set the goal but you will need others to achieve your goal. The better you communicate your vision to others the more successful you will be. Let each person involved know what they have to do and what rewards they will have. Communicate. Communicate. Communicate.

Step three. Be determined and stay on track. Accept the fact that there will be challenges. Make up your mind to push through the tough times. When you are resolute, nothing can stand between you and your goal.

Napoleon Hill said, “A goal is a dream with a deadline.” God said, “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do” (Joshua 1:8 NLT).

Set your goals to help world missions in 2013: www.buildinternational.org

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Embrace the Father’s Love

People throughout centuries have painted God in various lights. But the most important role God plays in the scriptures is of a loving Father.

Being Almighty, God does not exert His power, wielding His scepter having an indifferent attitude toward mankind. Instead, He is a loving, caring and redemptive God. The Father heart of God beats with compassion and mercy for His own creation. Nothing we do can keep God away from us. His love has no limit.

The character of God is best revealed in the story of the prodigal son. Having spent all he had, the son decides to return to his father’s (picture of God) house. What is God’s first response – a rebuke or a lecture? No. God runs to a sinful man. He embraces him. He clothes him with the best robe, sandal and a ring.

Friend, I’m not suggesting that you live a riotous life. However, I am asking, this year you take time to discover the Father heart of God. The Bible says, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NIV). How much more He loves you now that you’re a saint?

He loves you, unconditionally. He forgives you when you can’t forgive yourself. He heals you of your diseases. He provides for your every need. He embraces you when everyone has left you. He is your Father – embrace Him. Know that I’m praying for you and God is looking after you.

Get engaged in world missions:www.buildinternational.org

 

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Be a World Person

Deep down in each of our hearts, God has put a desire to be a world person. No matter what we do, there’s an insatiable longing in us to do good for others.

I know people who have been very successful in the carrier or business arena but deep down they are not satisfied. They feel empty inside. Now as time approach the end they want to leave their mark. They want their lives to count.

Today, I want to challenge you to be part of God’s vision for our world. Did you know there are still over 3 billion people who have never heard the name of Jesus? “How shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14). Did you know:

99.9% of Christian income is spent on themselves.

0.09% is spent on the evangelized non-Christian world.
0.01% is spent on the unevangelized world.

Build International ministries is spending most of its time, effort, and resources on the 0.01% who do not have a Christian witness in their community through spiritual development, education, providing clean drinking water and much more.

You can make a difference with your time, talent and treasure. Why don’t you take a moment to pray and ask God how you can become a world person in 2013? Your involvement big or small will change lives and eternity forever!

Make an eternal impact: www.buildinternational.org

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Seek First the Kingdom of God.

We all know people who are trying to find God’s blessings in their lives. They spend their whole life climbing the corporate ladder, doing business or even serving God but never find the satisfaction in life.

I have discovered a sure way to find God’s blessings in your life. Seek God and the blessings will find you. Jesus said, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33 NLT).

This means, we have to make God priority in our lives. You cannot expect the full favor of a business partner or a client without building a strong relationship. The same is true about our Heavenly Father. He wants to make you a great success but you have to get to know Him well.

Knowing Him also means you have to actively engage in making His name great. Be a witness both with your words and with your life. A chapter of the Gospel is being written every day. What do the world read when they interact with you?

Involve God in every area of your life. When you give God that kind of attention, you can rest assured that He will make it His personal business to make you a success. Seek first the Kingdom and all the material things will be added to you!

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Get engaged in building God’s Kingdom: www.buildinternational.org

Change Your World by Changing Your Words

Our words have tremendous power. When we speak positive, faith-filled words, we invite God to work in our situation but when we speak negative words, we do the opposite. This is why it is so important to tame our tongue and only speak words that will give life to our future.

Never speak down on yourself. Do not entertain thoughts and speak things like, “I’m not very talented. I come from an average background. I don’t have what it takes. I’ll never overcome my bad habits.” These types of thoughts and words are loaded with poison that will kill you faster than a snake.

Second, never speak negatively about your family. No matter what your family member has done, never mention it in public. You do not have to hide or defend their wrongs but you do not have to announce it to the world either.

Last but not the least; develop a habit not to speak evil of no one. God did not put us here to find faults in others but to live out our calling in life. Remember, when you speak down on one of God’s children, you invite God’s wrath upon yourself. Instead of speaking negative, bless yourself, your family and your fellowmen.

The Bible says, “The tongue can bring death or life” (Proverbs 18:21 NLT). Imagine the consequences of a moment’s emotional defeat! Stop speaking self-defeating, negative words, instead, “You will decree a thing and it shall be established for you” (Job 22:28). Speak life!

Speak for those who have no voice: www.buildinternational.org

Your Vision is Your Future

As we stand at the threshold of another new year, most of us are filled with new hope, anticipation and excitement. Some of us cannot wait to see what 2013 has to unveil in our lives. Many of us are making New Year’s resolution in hopes of improving ourselves and doing our due diligence. These are perfectly right things to feel and do.

One thing that will stand out is your vision for yourself. The picture you have of yourself is how your life is going to play out. This is why it is so important that we know and have our vision in focus. The scripture says, “Where there isno vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18 KJB). In other words, if we do not have a firm vision of ourselves and what we want from life, we are bound to fail. New Year’s resolution may carry you through for a month but a vision from God will take you through life.

You are saying, “Sandy, how do I find the vision for my life?” What is it that makes you burn with desire? What makes you dance when no one is watching? What gives you the innermost satisfaction in life? The answers to these are good indication what God has called you to do. Take some time to think and write them down.

The next thing you can do is to make your vision public. There is a level of accountability when you declare your dreams to people in your world. When you make your vision public, you breathe life into your destiny. Your vision may have come from the Lord but He will use people to make your vision a reality.

Last but not the least, ask for God’s help. Jesus said, “Ask, and you will receive” (Matthew 7:7 God’s Word). If your vision is something you can do for yourself, you’re thinking too small. Enlarge your vision to benefit others. When God is your partner, you can achieve anything in life.

This year, make your life count: www.buildinternational.org

Training Leaders in India, Nepal and Dubai

By the time you read this, I will be on my way to the mission fields of Asia. Our goal is to train 1,500 leaders in the next few weeks. Let me share with you the situation there.

Pastor Lalit is from Orissa - one of the most violent states for Christians to live in India. It has been the epicenter of persecution, torture, and killings of Christians. But the believers there have been equally brave and courageous to stand up for their faith - even unto death.

Earlier this year, radical militants burned Bibles, demolished churches, and killed Christians. Lalit has been serving the Lord for the past five years in this hostile environment. His village is known for anti-Christian fanatics. The rebels come by droves to plunder food, money, and whatever little the villagers have in their possession.

One day, Pastor Lalit was kidnapped by these radicals. He was taken into the jungle for days. He endured starvation and severe torture. Not knowing his whereabouts, the believers in the village began to fast and pray for his safety. In answer to their prayers, his captors miraculously released Pastor Lalit. Upon his return, Lalit began to preach more fervently than before. He continued to baptize new believers openly. The news quickly spread into the rebel camp and Lalit was confronted by a terrorist. He tried to convince Lalit to stop preaching and join their group. When Lalit refused, the terrorist pulled out his sword and lifted it in the air to behead him.

The believers had been praying for their Pastor's safety. This time the angels intervened. Miraculously, the rebel's arms froze in the air. He could not bring down the sword. His arms remained hoisted for the next few days. Finally they sent for the Pastor's mother to pray for him. The believers prayed with the promise that they would leave the Christians alone. Amazingly, the rebel's arms were fully restored!

Today, Pastor Lalit continues his work fearlessly. So far, he has established six churches. Many of the former rebels now attend his church and a large number of them have given their hearts to Christ. They are also teaching adult literacy classes and providing water wells of clean drinking water for the villagers.

Please help, pray and agree with us for the training expense. Thank you for your investment in the past; I encourage you to make a sacrificial gift to help train leaders like Lalit.

Together in the Harvest!

Donate to Empower Leaders: http://www.buildinternational.org/training.html
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Empowering Leaders in India and Nepal

I would like to introduce you to Pastor Deep. He is one of 1,500 pastors and leaders from India and Nepal that we have the opportunity to train in the month of September and October. They are in need of encouragement, prayers and support.

Pastor Deep has planted 55 churches with over 5,000 believers where only 2% of the population is Christians. Most of the areas in north India he ministers to have no electricity, clean drinking water or basic infrastructure. Thousands of idol worshippers have never heard the name of Jesus – even once! Leaders do not have Bible School training or a place of worship. These pastors endure brutal persecution – they are kidnapped, beaten, tortured, their houses and property burned down and even murdered.

Another pastor swims across rivers to reach the villages on the other side. When he comes out of the water, his body is covered with blood sucking leeches. Yet they have been able to plant 35 churches.

Like Timothy in the Bible, these leaders are hungry to learn. They baptize hundreds of new converts every week! They are establishing churches amongst the poorest of the poor. For most of these leaders, it will be their first training of any kind. They will walk for miles, travel for days and sacrifice to come to the training. Then they will go back and impact thousands. I want to give you the opportunity to invest in these leaders.

I am so fortunate to have you as a partner in our prayer and ministry. It cost only $100 to train a pastor.  I am asking God for someone to invest in the lives of 25 of these pastors; and a couple of others to invest in 10, and others to invest in 5, 2, even one of these leaders. Whatever you can do will transform thousands of lives and your investment will bear eternal fruits.

Thank you so much for all you do. Let me remind you of God’s promises to bless you when you bless the work of God. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). Thank you. I am praying for you.

Donate to Empower Leaders: http://www.buildinternational.org/training.html
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How to Be Happy in an Unhappy World

People all over the world are in search of happiness. Some spend their entire lives in pursuit of happiness. But happiness is not in things or people; it is a state of your own mind. It is an attitude of your heart.

You may think you have a bad boss or a wimpy job. But what would happen if you lost your job for nine months, and then you are offered the same job? Would you be excited about going to work? I bet you would. What about your spouse? If you had to live a lonely life year after year, would you be as easily irritated with your spouse? This may sound rude, but there are many who would love to have your spouse. What about the children God has given you? I’ll tell you, I meet people on top of their career who say, "I wish I had spent more time with my kids when they are little."

If you want to live happy, the first thing you have to do is to count your blessings and see all the things you do have.

The Bible says, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Many people use happiness and joy as interchangeable words. But there’s a great difference between the two. Joy is one of the fruits of God’s Spirit. It comes from inside. It’s an outcome – it’s a fruit of knowing God intimately. Happiness is often related to external circumstances – that are often beyond our control. Do not pursue happiness. Pursue God, and joy will burst out of your heart and intoxicate your daily life. Once you learn to enjoy God, you’ll never be unhappy again. He will be the Source of your happiness. You will say, like King David, “In Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).

Friend, happiness is a choice. If you make up your mind to be happy, nobody can take it away from you. Let me share a few principles that will keep you happy every day of your life.

1. Do not give away your strength. When you are happy, confident and purposeful, you are strong.  Negative things may happen to you, but you must make up your mind to stay positive. Be on the defensive to keep your joy. Do not allow well-meaning people or bad news to derail your happiness. Every morning when you get up, say to yourself, “No matter what comes my way, I choose to stay calm and enjoy this day.”

2. Think happy thoughts. It is scientifically proven that your life will follow your mind. You may get disappointed with yourself, friends may let you down, or the enemy accuses you of your past sins. Make your peace with God and learn to ignore the condemning voices. When someone makes you feel small with their words, quickly replace those thoughts with God’s opinion of you. Say to yourself, “I’m smart. I’m good looking and attractive. I’m loved. I’m accepted. People like me. I can excel at my job. God is for me, so who can be against me? I am blessed to be a blessing!”

3. Forgive quickly. You cannot control what other people say and do. But you can choose to forgive. Our heavenly father forgives us of our many sins every day. We must do the same for our family, and friends. Like cleaning the wine spill on the carpet, the faster you get rid of the offense, the easier it will be to forgive. Resist the temptation to replay the negative things people say to you. When discouraging thoughts come to your mind, immediately change the channel as you do with a TV. Lounge on the victory channel!

4. Learn to laugh. Researchers have discovered that when we smile and laugh out loud, our body releases hormones that make us feel happy and heal our diseases. The Bible says, “A merry heart does like medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). Every day find something to laugh about. First put on a smile, and your feelings of happiness will follow.

5. Bring happiness to others. No matter how bad your situation may look, there is always someone worse off than you. Instead of looking at your own lack, find two or three people to help every week. Call a friend and check on them. Endorse someone in public. Invite someone to eat a meal in your house. Encourage someone with the Word of God. Lift someone up. Grab the hand of someone and pray for them. When you help others, God will help you.

Friend, it is God’s will for you to enjoy life. Jesus said, “I have come that you may have abundant life” (John 10:10). When you practice these five principles, happiness will find you. Do not let your happiness rest in people, possession or power. Rather, put your focus on God, and His blessings will overtake you. Do not allow others to steal your joy. Think happy thoughts. Do not resent people. Forgive quickly. Lighten up. Every day, find something to laugh about.

If you want ultimate happiness, please check out our web site (http://www.buildinternational.org). Be a part of someone’s miracle. What you do for others, God will do for you. Your investment will bring hope and eternal life to someone who has never heard the name of our Lord.

Scripture says, “But let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice; let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a covering over them and defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You and be in high spirits” (Psalm 5:11).

We are praying for you. May your life be filled with joy and laughter. God bless you.

Partner with Us and Transform Lives: http://www.buildinternational.org
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Spreading the Message of Hope to the Nations

I thank God every day for your strong involvement in spreading God’s message of Hope to the nations. Although our ministry is able to accomplish much, your outstanding collaboration and support cause us to reach even more people. Often I am asked, "Sandy, what makes this ministry different from others?"

Let me share briefly what is exclusive when you partner with this ministry.

Our message is to share the love of Jesus with people who have never heard His name – even once! It is in our organization’s DNA to offer help, healing, and hope through the Gospel. We do not undertake any project where we cannot freely share Christ with the people to whom we minister. The Great Commission is our first priority!

Second, our method is to empower people. We are involved in transforming communities through caring for orphans, providing clean drinking water, educating and providing vocational, leadership, and spiritual training. We seek to improve the quality of life. We do this by investing in the local people wherever we go.

Third, our means is to engage you. Our focus is the nations of the world! Jesus said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 29:19 NAS).  God's mandate is to bring the whole world under His saving knowledge. We seek to connect you to a world that still needs to be reached and credit souls to your heavenly account.

Thank you for your continuous prayers, support and encouragement. This ministry may be the spearhead of the vision, but you are the bow that thrusts the arrow forward. As world mission program is becoming less of a priority, individually and in churches, we urge you to partner with us. When we do this, God will not only bless the nations but our own lives, also. Over the course of the last twenty six years, we have seen tens of thousands of people come to the saving knowledge of Christ. We have trained thousands of local leaders and planted hundreds of churches. This is the impact of your involvement.


Partner with Us and Transform Lives: http://www.buildinternational.org
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God is Orchestrating Your Life

Years ago, we worked with a missionary family in Thimpu, Bhutan. They honored God and faithfully served in their secret house church. The husband was a well educated man of integrity and held a prominent government job. However, when the authorities found out that he was a Christian, he was transferred to a remote location. The news of his transfer shocked his family. They could not understand why God would allow them to be put in a place with no Christian friends or church. Starving for fellowship, the young family worked to establish a church. Within a year, the church was flourishing with new believers. Think about it. Just as in the book of Acts, chapter eight, the scattering of persecuted believers led to the establishment of a new church. God in His master plan wanted them to be a greater blessing to others.

At times, He will shake us out of our comfort zone to bring much needed growth and increase into our lives He does not think or do the way we expect. The Bible says, “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:9 NKJV). If we walk in obedience to Him, God will reward us.

Do you know how baby eagles learn to fly? The eaglets are in no hurry to leave their nursery. Mama knows they will not leave voluntarily. So she begins to stir the nest. She hovers over it and starts to flutter her powerful wings to blow all the soft feathers from the nest. Next, she starts to tear it apart with her powerful beak. Now the eaglets are exposed. Imitating the mother, they begin to flap their growing wings for their first lesson in flying. One day the mother swoops down and places one of the eaglets on her wing. Together they fly up to five thousand feet as she swoops and soars through the sky. Suddenly, she tips her wings and the eaglet slides off. The young bird somersaults and flaps its wings, plunging closer and closer to its deadly fall to the ground. Just before it hits the ground, the mother swoops down, catches it up on her giant feathery wing, and repeats the process until that little bird learns to fly.

Friend, is your life in uncontrollable disarray? Does it feel like plunging downward? I have good news for you. What looks like a setback now is actually a setup. If we could ask the eaglets about their flying class, they would probably say, “We don’t understand how our mother could be so insensitive. We are scared. We are about to die!” Isn’t this what happens to us at times? When life gets hard, we panic. But a big part of faith is trusting God even when we do not understand. You may not like the closed doors. You may not appreciate unanswered prayers. But God is orchestrating a perfect plan for your life. The uncomfortable situations in your life are there to take you to new heights. Suddenly, you get the job you were praying for; you get the financial breakthrough, the relationship works out, you get free from addiction and the child stops acting up.

A Chinese proverb says, “The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trial.” Between you and anything significant, there will be giants in your path. When you face your giants, you will discover things about yourself that you never knew. Do not allow your problems to take the lead – you take charge. A crisis can break you down or make you stronger. Adversity is another way to measure your greatness. If you have a dream without problems, your dream is too small.

In John 11:1-27, Jesus was on His way to Bethany where His friend Lazarus was sick. Along the way He kept getting delayed ministering to others. In spite of the urgency, Jesus was in no hurry. By the time He got there, Lazarus had not only died but had been buried for three days. This may be the situation in your lie - a dead business, a dream or a negative report of your health. No matter what is dead in your life, remember that your God is still alive! He is orchestrating your life to blossom again.

In the story, Jesus said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God” (John 11:4). Likewise, God is restoring life back to the dead areas of your life so you can glorify His name. Circumstances may be difficult, but God would not allow them into your life unless He has a purpose for it. Like Lazarus, He will resurrect what seems dead in your life.  Remember that nothing happens to you; everything happens for you. Rather than questioning and getting upset, say, “Thank you Lord for working your divine plan in my life. I do not understand it, but I accept the good changes you are about to bring in to my life.”

Friend, nothing in your life is a coincident. God is in total control of your life. Just as with the missionary family in Bhutan, He will use you for His Kingdom purpose. Like the mother eagle, God will help you soar to new heights.  As in the case of Lazarus, the dead things in your life will flourish again. Do not faint in your day of adversity; rather “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9 NKJV). Be strong, keep a good attitude. God is orchestrating a bright future for your life!

Transform Lives and Impact Eternity: http://www.buildinternational.org
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