Reaching China with the Good News

On March 16, we will embark on our next mission trip to China. Your unwavering prayer, encouragement, and support is helping us to fulfill the Great Commission.

The greatest revival on earth today is taking place in communist China. There are over 100 million followers of Christ. Bibles are often forbidden, considered as pornographic material and not readily available in China. This has created a substantial shortage of the Word of God throughout the land, especially in rural areas where revival is most evident.

On our last trip to China, we worked with Pastor T. He has spent years in prison for his service to the Lord. T's church is very active in winning lost souls. Pastor T told us, "In some of the remote areas of China, we did not see a single Bible in churches or in the hands of believers until we began handing out the Bibles you provided through your generosity." There are tens of thousands of believers living in rural China praying to have their first Bible.

One of our goals is to equip house churches with Bibles. During our last trip, we witnessed Christians in tears kissing the Bibles we distributed. Believers in China are severely persecuted. A Bible is their comfort from God.

A single Bible costs only $3.00. Will you please help? Will you also please share this project with your friends, family, and social media network? Thank you!

Jesus said, "I needed clothes, and you gave me something to wear. I was sick, and you took care of me. I was in prison, and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:36)  God bless you for showing compassion to our persecuted brothers and sisters in China.

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Living Healthy in a Stress-Filled World

Please pray for our upcoming Mission Trip to China (March 16)

I had a friend in ministry who was in his mid-fifties when his life came to an abrupt end, leaving his precious young family without a husband and father. My friend lived a God-honoring life but the primary reason for his early demise was his lack of proper nutrition and exercise. How we chose to care for our body will affect our overall quality and longevity of life.

Not too long ago, another friend approached me and asked, "Brother Sandy, I serve God with all of my heart, but my family is constantly having health issues. Doesn't God care?" It was a sincere and sobering question. Today I want to share with you what I shared with him.

Each of us is made up of three parts – spiritual, emotional, and physical. All three of these areas are interconnected.  For example, if we do not get enough sleep each day, it will affect our productivity the next day. If we live on a fast food diet all the time, it will begin to affect our mood. And if we do not get regular exercise, we will become lethargic and not have sufficient energy.

As a minister, I pray for sick people all the time, many of whom are spiritual giants. They read the Bible, pray, go to church, and live a God-pleasing life. They stand in a prayer line thinking there must be a spiritual reason as to why they are sick. So they think a prayer alone will fix their health issues. While I am glad to pray for people anytime and anywhere, and I trust in God's power to heal, I also know some health issues are not spiritual problems. They are a result of a lifestyle adjustment they need to make. God has the power to heal but He also expects us to do our part to properly maintain our physical health.

Let me challenge you to consider four areas that might enhance your physical health.

1. Food and drink. Do not misunderstand, I believe you can eat and drink almost anything as long as you maintain a healthy balance. But what we eat and drink will greatly determine how we feel. Some healthy choices include eating fresh, unprocessed food. Lentils, beans, and lean meats are all good proteins that provide energy, while rice, bread, potatoes, and pasta can make you feel sluggish. Dark vegetables are rich in vitamins. Candy, sweets, and desserts may taste good in the moment, but fresh fruit and nuts are better alternatives.  Drinking sugar-laden soda, iced tea, or excessive amounts of alcohol can amplify existing health issues; drinking water is a better way to go. Some of the health habits my family engages in are to eat food from small plates, drink water from large glasses, and drink coffee or tea from small cups. Desserts and junk food are occasional treats, but we do not store them at home.

2. Exercise. We live in a sedentary society. Many of us are glued to a computer screen or an office desk for eight to ten hours a day. When we return home from work, we find ourselves sitting on the couch flipping through channels on TV. Modern conveniences have reduced our physical activity causing a great challenge for people to stay fit. Unless your job routinely involves manual labor, you may need to schedule exercise in your daily routine. Walking, jogging, running, swimming, or weightlifting are great ways to stay physically fit. Researchers have found that when we sweat due to exercise or physical work, our body releases endorphins that send "happy hormones" to rejuvenate us.

3. Sleep and rest. Even God rested after His sixth day of creation! Your body is the only "machine" you'll ever have. Just like an expensive car, you cannot keep it running without proper rest. Likewise, God in his infinite wisdom created night and day. Going to sleep is like rebooting a computer; it gets rid of static and recharges your body. Scientists have found that every hour of sleep you get before 2:00 a.m. counts as twice as much rest! Isn't it amazing that modern society is catching up with the old saying, "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a person healthy..." Health experts are now saying our body functions at an optimum level when we get a full eight hours of sleep each night.

4. Smile and laugh. Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, Indiana, has compiled some fascinating facts. Did you know only thirteen muscles are used to smile, but forty-seven muscles are required to frown? Clearly, smiling is more beneficial than frowning. Researchers also discovered that one good belly laugh burns off three and a half calories.  Laughter lowers the levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is the effect of stress and it suppresses your immune system. Lowering cortisol levels will enhance the work of your immune system and may prevent disease. Laughter releases endorphins (a “feel good” hormone) into your body with the same exhilarating effect as doing strenuous exercise. Let's learn to laugh and put our health in high gear!

Friend, no matter where you are in your health, it will do us all good to improve our physical health habits. If we take time to educate ourselves, eat right, exercise, get enough rest, and learn to laugh, God will do His part. The Bible says, "Honor God with your body.” (I Corinthians 6:20)  How do we do that? By taking care of our body. After all, if you have a million dollars but are poor in physical health, what good will that be? Think about it! Your body is not only where you live, but it is also where God lives. Let us treat and respect our health as a gift from God.

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God's Plan for Your Family

A family is the perfect script for a great movie. There is a “good guy” (God) and a “bad guy” (the Devil) fighting for the prized possession – you, the family. Unfortunately, this battle is not fought on the silver screen but in real life. This is why God commanded Nehemiah to “fight for your families.” (Nehemiah 4:14)

When God instituted family, He provided a roadmap.  He gave specific roles to each member of the family to set them up to be victorious. If we are to be successful in our family life, we must follow God’s plan.  It is God’s design for the man to be the leader of his home. Eve was created to be a “help meet” (Genesis 2:18) because God knew man would need a lot of help! Today, man’s value and role have been emasculated by modern society and women are left with a burden on their shoulders they were never intended to bear.

So what makes a successful family? I believe a successful family begins with a successful marriage. And a successful marriage is based on two quality decisions: commitment to God and commitment to each other. Without this commitment and the determination to reinforce it daily, you will be tempted to give up.

Let’s look at the husband’s role. The word husband comes from a Latin word meaning “house-band.” Like a rubber band, the husband’s job is to keep the family bound together. Do not take the easy way out and just be provider – spend time with your family as well. Be faithful to your wife. It is not enough to provide for the family financially; you also need to provide for them emotionally. In the complex world we live today, they need your listening ears, approval, and understanding. As the leader of the family, the husband needs to lead, guide, provide, protect, and serve his family. When a husband serves in this way, the wife will not have any trouble submitting to him. When I counsel couples, many wives tell me they dream for a godly husband they can follow. Husbands, step up to the plate and be the spiritual leader of your home. The husband’s job is to receive and apply the word of God in his family, in the same way Christ loved and served His family. A leader is not a dictator but a humble servant who serves his family.

It is every woman’s desire to be loved, cherished, and even pampered. They need listening ears without being interrupted when they share their feelings. Women need to feel beautiful and validated.  Instead of complaining, develop a habit of complementing. Like the great king Solomon advised, daily build up your wife. Allow them to blossom and develop confidence. Do not give half-hearted approval. They need full endorsement; complements, not criticism. When you treat your wife like a queen, she will treat you like a king.

The wife’s primary role is to support her husband and children without losing her own identity. Modern culture, media, and movies have taught us that being a wife or a mother at home is an inferior vocation. But nothing is more rewarding than to follow God’s design for the family. Nothing is more powerful than raising and influencing the next generation. What you deposit in them is far more important than what you  leave for them.

Wives, your husband needs you. Nothing makes a man feel taller than when his wife standing by his side. Your husband’s number one need is to be admired. This is even more important than their need for intimacy. Your husband needs your respect and appreciation. Instead of nagging, start bragging, especially in public. Build him up with your words of encouragement. Tell him what a great man he is. Give him something to live up to!

Children obviously make up the fun part of the family. One thing I have learned as a father is kids spell love, “T-I-M-E.” Parents, “waste” time with your children. Play with your children. Train them in the ways of the Lord. If you don’t spend time with them, someone else will! Discipline them from a young age. Teach them responsibility, respect, and honor. Speak affirmative words over them. Catch them doing something right. Remember, they will learn more from your walk than from your talk. Ouch!

A family is the highest representation of God on earth. If you are blessed with a family, cherish it. Do not take your family for granted. Husbands, love your wife so your prayers will not be hindered. (1 Peter 3:7) Wives, admire your husband and speak well of him. Children, enjoy the family God has given you – it is the only one you will have. A Spanish proverb says, “An ounce of blood is worth more than a pound of friendship.” God has shed His blood to save His family; now it's your turn to save yours! He is watching over you with everything you need. Live, Love, Learn… at the end of your days, your family is all you will have left.

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How to Create Your Miracle

If you’re like me, you have a hundred things on your mind to accomplish in life – someday!  We all know people who are about to start a business, they’re going to open a savings account, planning to spend more time with their family.  But in most cases, these dreams get pushed aside for a more opportune time – someday!

The secret to success is to tackle a big goal in “bite size pieces.”  In other words, take a baby step.  Then take the next step, followed by another. God said,  Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land. Exodus 23:30. “Little by little” is how God told Israelites to capture a giant territory.  When we focus on our daily, weekly and short-term goal, in the process of time, we’ll be able to achieve the big goal.

For example, if you want to save a ton of money, start putting away $10 today.  If you’re planning to lose 50 lbs. in weight, start walking the neighborhood with a goal of loosing just one pound a month.  If you want to overcome a bad habit, start by reducing one cigarette a day. We all want an instant miracle. But until that happens, baby steps is what's going to get us there! When people ask me, "How I can support your ministry?" I tell them, "Don’t wait until you have $500 extra cash in hand, start by sending $30 a month."

Friend, whatever you want to achieve in life, start by taking a baby step today.  Do not wait for better conditions.  In most cases, the situation will not be much better next week or a month from now. But if you take the baby step today, followed by another and then another, you’ll be that much closer to achieving your big goal.  By next year, you’ll be amazed what miracle you’ve created for yourself. 

There's a story in the Bible (2 Kings 7) where four lepers were sitting at the entrance of the city gates. Inside the city there was a famine and outside they're threatened by their enemies. The lepers didn't know what to do. But they had enough sense to realize that if they sat there, they're going to die.

Finally, after a long debate, they decided to walk toward the enemy camp and take their chances. They didn't make a big announcement or a New Year's resolution. They simply decided to get up and take a step toward their goal to survive. Amazingly, as they took their first, second and third steps, God caused their enemies to hear thunderous footsteps of a great army marching toward them. The enemies scattered and the lepers exploited the spoil and saved a whole city. Notice, God caused the enemies to hear the footsteps of a great army only after the lepers took a step in faith toward their goal.

Is your miracle waiting for you to take your first step toward your goal?

Let me share sevens simple steps you can take to achieve your miracle:

1. Set goals.  Set long term goals then divide it in to daily goals.

2. Make your goals public. Create accountability. Talk about it – a lot.

3. Be consistent to achieve your daily small goals. Success breeds success.

4. Evaluate your goal weekly. What’s working; what’s not? Take appropriate measure to make adjustments.

5. Reward yourself with something small (not ice-cream if you’re planning to lose weight) when you have a small victory.

6. Silence the voice of condemnation and start over when you fail.

7. Accept the fact that it will take some time.

Friend, God is with you. He is for you. If you take a baby step toward your goal, He will reward you openly. Others will look at you and call it a miracle. Remember, a journey of a thousand mile begins with a single step.

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Starbucks Coffee or World Missions

It is the perfect time of year to evaluate our lives in the light of eternity. In the midst of New Year's resolutions and such, it is good to look at our spiritual goals. Through your partnership last year, we were able to reach over 80,000 people. This year, our goal is to double our efforts.

The crying, sighing and dying humanity on the mission field is the heartbeat of Jesus. His last command to us was, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation" (Mark 16:15). Therefore, as individuals and as the Church, we must put missions on the forefront of our agenda. We must embrace world missions as our top priority.

Dauth is one of our Native Missionaries working high in the Himalayas where most people have never heard the name of Jesus. Last week over 14,000 people gathered to hear him sing and share about the Lord. There is a tremendous hunger in the hearts of people in idol worshiping nations in Asia. Your partnership is helping Gospel workers like Dauth to proclaim the Gospel to the multitudes.

This year, will you prayerfully consider partnering with a national worker? In India, China, Burma, they are beaten daily and faced with imprisonment and even death. But they persevere to win souls for Christ.

Twenty-five workers need immediate sponsorship. It costs only $120-$250 per month to keep an evangelist on the job. A partial sponsorship is available for only $1 a day - a fraction of the cost of a Starbucks coffee! In return, imagine the souls that will be credited to your heavenly account! That is true wealth which will not corrupt.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your friendship, prayers and support. We are praying daily for you and your family. The Lord sees your sacrifice and He will openly reward you.

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Living Your Dream in 2012

As a new year rolls around, it is easy not to think about growing, stretching and multiplying. After all, recession continues, jobs are hard to find and we struggle to maintain good health. It does not take much to become complacent and stuck in a rut. But God is progressive. He wants us to stretch out and put an expansion plan in place so He can have something to bless.

What I sense in my spirit is 2012 will be an amazing year! God will accelerate things for you this year and what did not happen last year was preparation for this year. Nothing was wasted or lost. If you keep a right attitude, and take the right actions, God has amazing things prepared for you. Shake off the disappointments and listen to what God says, “Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim, one thing fast on the heels of the other. You won't be able to keep up. Everything will be happening at once—and everywhere you look, blessings! Blessings like wine pouring off the mountains and hills. I'll make everything right again for my people.” (Amos 9:13-14 Message).

You say, "Sandy, you are just getting my hopes up. This sounds too good to be true.” Yes, I am getting your hopes up. But this will only work for those who believe His Word! Faith is to see before you believe. And if you believe, you will see.

Colin Willard and a group of ten other employees from a technology company in Ottawa, Canada were laid off just before Christmas. Willard had just returned to work after a six-month absence due to back problems. Willard described his discovery of $7 million in the lottery, a day after he was laid off, “I started to shake, vibrate in my seat, and then I had to get out and tell some of the people that were in [on the winning ticket], and no one believed me!"

I do not know the details of the lives of these men nor am I endorsing the lottery. But if I was a winner, I would be ecstatic knowing God always comes through. You may not see now how your miracle will come to pass, but rest assured God will not let you down. King David said, “Once I was young, and now I am old. Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned or their children begging for bread.” (Psalm 37:25, NLT) If you trust and obey Him, you can face this year confident He will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory.

Sam Schmid, a twenty-one year old student from Arizona, was involved in a horrible car crash last October leaving him on emergency life support. Due to the complexity of his life-threatening injuries, Schmid had to undergo multiple surgeries. After the doctors came out of surgery, his brain showed no response and they considered taking him off life support. A week later Schmid shocked doctors when he responded by holding up two fingers. A few months later, he began talking and walking again. Schmid says, "I see myself leaving the house, going to school, work, and doing basic things like that again."

This year, God wants to heal your body. It does not matter how long you have been sick; like the crippled man by the pool of Bethesda, God wants to restore your health. Our God is Jehovah Rapha, the Lord our Healer. He not only heals our sick bodies, but He will heal marriages, broken relationships, failing businesses or a distant relationship with God.

Friend, raise the level of your expectancy! Put your hope in God. He will honor your faith. You will go from dreaming the dream to living your dream.

Let me proclaim a blessing over your life! In 2012, you will go from dreaming the dream to living your dream. You have prayed, labored, and stood faithful. You have planted and watered the seeds. You have grown and matured in character. You have believed but now you will see. You will go from imagining to experiencing the dreams and desires God put on the inside of you. The wind that was blowing against you will start to blow in your direction. It is the breath of God’s favor, forgiveness and mercy overtaking you. He has put right people in your path who will celebrate and open doors for you. Just when you think this is too good to be true, God will astonish you with another surprise! I proclaim 2012 will be an exceptional year!!!

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Be the Prophet of Your Own Life

Once, when my daughter Sabrina was eight years old she began to complain how hard it was to finish one page of math (90 problems). Normally she’s the most focused of all three of my kids. I put her on my lap and asked her to repeat after me, “Math is easy and it is fun. I can do this in no time.” Immediately she protested, “But it is not!” I reminded her of the scripture, “Let the weak SAY I’m strong.” (Joel 3:10) After a little persuasion, she repeated, “I love math, I can do this in no time. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Long story short, she was able to finish math in record 13 minutes!

Solomon, the wisest man in history wrote, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Prov. 18:21) What we often don’t realize is the choice of our own words has tremendous power. Words are like seeds. When they come out of our mouth we’re giving life to what we’re saying, either good or bad. Every time we use negative words, it’s like watering that seed. And before long it will produce exactly what we’re saying!

I Peter 3:10 says, “He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil.” By the choice of our own words we can make ourselves happy or we can make ourselves miserable. Our words will drag us down or lift us up.

A father and son were taking a hike in the mountain when suddenly the boy slipped and fell 15-20 feet down the cliff. Fortunately he grabbed on to a bush and shouted, “Somebody help me!” The boy was startled when his own voice boomed back, “Somebody help me!” The boy said, “Who are you?” The voice returned, “Who are you?” Annoyed, the boy shouted, “You’re a coward!” The same words shouted back, “You’re a coward!” Just about that time his father got down to his rescue. The boy said, “Dad, what is that voice mocking me?” The father smiled and yelled out, “I’m a winner.” In seconds his voice boomed back, “I’m a winner.” He shouted again, “I’ve got what it takes.” The voice replied, “I’ve got what it takes.” Then he turned to his boy and said, “Son that is called an echo. But it is also called life! Whatever you send out will come back to you!!!”

Friend, let me ask you a question. What words are you sending out today? Did you know it is scientifically proven that the words that will impact you the most are the ones coming out of your own mouth?

Words are a creative force. Jesus said, “Whatsoever you SAY, you shall have.” (Mark 1:23) Let’s choose words out of God’s creative dictionary – the Bible and carve out a brilliant future for ourselves.

Friend, I challenge you to make a daily confession list that is based on God’s Word. If you SAY it long enough and believe it firm in your heart, it will surely come to pass. You can prophesy and create your own dream future.

Words! Words!! Words!!! Your words have creative power! Choose your words carefully today. Tomorrow, you will eat the fruit of it.

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Making the Most of What You Have

Dauth came to our Mission Training Center as a teenager. He was naive and immature but he had a great quality. He was excited about life and willing to cease every opportunity that came along his way. When he graduated from our short training, we sent him to plant a church in a nearby village. We teamed him up with another young man about the same age as Dauth. Unfortunately, while Dauth greatly succeeded in connecting with people, inviting them to their newly started fellowship, his partner didn't have much excitement or initiative at all. He was often discouraged, dissatisfied, always looking for something else to perform. Needless to say, Dauth's church planting partner left the village and ministry before a church could be established there.

Dauth persisted. He was faithful. He reached out to the people, inviting them and praying for them when they came to his little church. When he had time off, Dauth developed his gifts and talents. Long story short, today, Dauth is a respected worship leader in the country and he is well known by the population appearing in secular TV and radio stations on numerous occasion. He is a sought after artist both in the Christian an secular world.

This is what happens to a lot of us. Instead of looking at what we have, the gifts and talents God has already given us, we focus on things that we don't have. We wish for what others have and remain in obscure darkness. But if we are to excel in life, we must learn to recognize the gifts God has given us and start putting them to practice.

I've often wondered about the difference between Dauth and his fellow church planter. What caused Dauth to come up on top and his friend, washed up in life? I believe the key to Dauth's success was - he used what God put in his hands with the best of his ability. As Dauth remained faithful to do what he could, God did for Dauth what he couldn't.

The scripture says, Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin. Zac. 4:10. Friend, God doesn't want us to merely sit around dreaming about things we can do and be. That's a good starting point but we must go beyond that. God wants us to turn our dreams into action. We all have gifts and talents, and the way to develop our potential is by stepping out in faith and making the most of every opportunity.

Do not be disheartened by what you do not have. Rather, take inventory of what you do have and get busy using those gifts. God has blessed you with a sharp mind, clear vision, two hands and feet - network of people you can interact with. Use what you've got. Don't take anything for granted. If you start using what you've got long enough, your breakthrough will come and you will eat the fruit of it.

Don't wait for higher revelation. Live the ones you have. Don't wait for a people connection for you to prosper, use the connections you have to help others. Don't stand in another prayer line for your healing. Go find someone else to pray for. As you do these things - what God has placed in your hands - you'll be amazed to see God bringing you the things you need.

Be encouraged today. You have what it takes. You may not have everything you want, but if you start making the most of what you have, God will give you more. Every dream God placed upon your heart will come to pass. God is working behind the scene right now to create the miracle you need. He loves you and He cares about you. Now get busy being a blessing to someone else and your light will spring forth in this New Year!

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Set Goals, Plan and Prosper

Nelaton, the great French surgeon, once said, “If I had four minutes in which to perform an operation on which a life depended, I would take one minute to consider how best to do it.”  The scripture says, “The PLANS of the diligent lead surely to plenty.”  Proverbs 21:5.  Friend, do you have a plan to prosper in your life?  And more importantly, are you putting any action behind those plans?

One of the keys to success is to take time to set goals (spiritual, relational, financial etc.), drawing up an action plan and pursuing the dreams we believe in.  Mediocrity will keep you focused on the daily grind all your life but a man with a plan will prosper.

You may have suffered a few setbacks in life.  Some of your plans may not have worked out.  But don’t let that keep you from pursuing the dreams God has given you.  This is a new day.  You have new ideas, you have fresh motivation.  You can plan in confidence!

Did you know God has a plan for your life?  If we want success in our lives, we must believe in the plan God has for us; a plan to prosper, a plan to give us a bright future (Jeremiah 29:11).  We must believe in God’s goodness and we must make some plans.

But it is not enough to just believe and set some plans.  We we must put some ACTION behind our plan.  Just like an expecting couple, we must plan and prepare for that great day of “delivery.”  King David said, “The STEPS of a good man are ordered by the Lord.”  Psalm 37:23-24.   God expects us to take some steps -- specific steps that He can bless. 

For example, if we want to pay off $5,000 in debt.  Our plan can be: #1 Cut back on grocery by 10%.  #2 Eat out only once a month.  #3 Take lunch to work and use that saving to pay off debt.  Allocate a time frame to achieve this goal; say one year.  As you can see, the goal is very specific.  We can measure the progress.  And we also have a timeframe that motivates us to achieve the task.  Whatever goals we set, our strategy must be designed to take us in that direction.  A combination of our efforts and God’s favor will ignite our plans for success.

Practical Steps You Can Take:

1.  Sit with God and take time to plan your day, week, month and years.

2.  Write down your specific plans.  Hab. 2:2-4

3.  Set a daily, weekly and monthly goal to monitor the progress of your plans.

4.  Share your plans with people who will keep you accountable and help you achieve your goals.

5.  Expect God to bring super-natural favor and breakthroughs.

The plans you set today will determine the quality of your life both now and in the future.

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Stretch Yourself to the Next Level

Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)  Generally we apply this verse to our spiritual life.  But God wants us to hunger and thirst in every area of our lives.  He wants us to experience increase in our relationships, finances, health and in our walk with God.  Like a rubber band, He wants us to stretch our capacity for twice as much as we have today.

One of the most inspiring stories we read in the Bible is about Caleb (Numbers 13).  When he was young, he was one of the twelve spies who went out to spy the land God had given them.  While ten of them brought negative report, Caleb and Joshua said, “We can overcome the enemy at once!”

After a long series of battles, the Israelites finally entered the promised land.  It was a place of God’s abundance!  But Caleb did not stop there.  He stretched himself to the next level.  At the age of eighty-five, he went to his leaders and said, “Give me this mountain.”  In other words, Caleb was constantly stretching himself to do more for his family, his community and for God.  He pushed himself and believed God for greater miracles in his life.  Caleb possessed a new mountain at eighty-five (Joshua 14:6-15)!

Friend, how are you stretching yourself?  If we want God to bless us, it is imperative that we set new goals and expectations.  No matter where you are in your life right now, God wants you to go higher.  He wants us to develop our gifts and talents.  You may have the lowest job right now, but do not plan to stay there.  God wants to advance you, so you can take care of yourself and have plenty left over to bless those around you.  If you want to leave your mark on the earth, you must take steps to learn, grow and call His favor upon your life every day.

Do not be satisfied to remain where you are.  The entire world is waiting for your next adventure!

I am sure God has already done many great things in your life.  But always remember, your best is yet to come.  That means your best is still in your future.  Do not stop hoping, dreaming and believing.  Plan your next project, start writing that book, educate yourself, save to buy that tool that will increase your income.  When you do your part, God will command His blessing on the works of your hands. (Deuteronomy 28:8).

Get rid of low expectations and have a high confidence in God.  When we do our best and put our trust in God, He will outdo Himself.  He wants to bless you so you can be a blessing to others.  Others may not understand you, but God does.  He will promote you.

He planted seeds of greatness in you.  Dream big dreams.  Write down specific goals and plans.  You have everything you need to fulfill your God given destiny.  There is a champion in you waiting to be released.  Like a rubber band, you have the capacity to stretch yourself more than you think.  If you take the limits off of yourself, God will do great things.  You are intelligent, creative, disciplined, and full of God’s favor.  You have what it takes.  Rise up and stretch yourself, and you will have the abundant life God has for you.

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How to Enjoy a Peaceful Family Get Together

A family get-together can be one of the most contentious times. What should be a time of togetherness, bonding and celebrating one another becomes a time of conflict, chaos and strife. Instead of wasting another reunion dreading your family, extended family, guests and neighbors visiting your home, let me share a few tips that will not only keep your celebration contention free but allow you to make memories that will last for a lifetime!

1. Accept the fact that you cannot please everybody. No matter how hard you try to maintain good relationship with others, you cannot please everybody. If they do not criticize your children, they will complain about your carpet, the food, or the show on TV. Stop trying to please everyone at the expense of the peace of your family.

2. Become more agreeable. Nothing is more stressful than always feeling the need to prove yourself right. If you want peace, you have to be the peacemaker. You may have a strong opinion about doing something a certain way, but ask yourself, “Is this worth sacrificing joy in our family over this issue?” Consider others and their right to enjoy the celebration in their own way as well.

3. Lighten up with the rules. Every family has certain expectations in place in order to function in harmony each day. Instead of strictly imposing those rules during family get-togethers, allow family members to bend the rules a little. You have 364 other days a year to enforce your convictions. For kids, it might mean going to bed later, sleeping in late, having extra sweets. For adults, it might mean indulging in a favorite desert or allowing the house to be less tidy. Your family will forget about the rules one day, but the memories you make now will be unforgettable.

4. Have a relaxed, easy-going attitude. Don’t make mountain out of a molehill. If the kids spill a drink and spoil your most treasured tablecloth, do not yell, shout or lecture. Take it in stride and remember your children are the greatest treasure you will ever have. If the guests arrive late or the food gets burned, cut some slack. People would much rather have peace and tranquility than a perfect house in the middle of a perfect storm!

5. Adjust your expectations. One of the most common ways we get hurt is when we do not see things from the other person’s perspective. We place certain expectations on people and when they do not live up to those expectations, our feelings get hurt. Do not make the mistake of forcing people to fit your mold; instead, put yourself in their shoes. Some people are talkative; others are not. Some quickly step in to help; others need to be asked. Accept each person for who they are and you will have more fun.

6. Respect and honor each family member. Regardless of your personal convictions, try to value the other person. If Jesus was in the house (which He is), would you be so easily offended or do hurtful things? Be careful with your words. Do not always feel the need to reply to everything you hear. Curb the urge to snap back at each other.

7. Avoid sarcasm and hurtful comments. Most of us love a little fun at the expense of others. But what is dangerous is how it can affect the other person. We may say something in passing for a laugh, but people can carry the bitterness of the moment for months to come. Just like a burn, it takes only a second to say it, but the sting can remain months later! Use words to build up and not to tear down.

8. Communicate. If you are feeling your stress level going up, let your family know so they can extend you extra grace. Ask for help (in a nice voice). Don’t try to be a superhero. Assign jobs to different people, including to your guests. You will be amazed at how things can remain calm if you take the time to communicate.

9. Allow people to be who they are and act in the way they do. Accept that you cannot change everybody to behave according to your standards. That is part of what makes your family unit so different. Go with the flow and your guests just might leave earlier!

10. Make Jesus the Lord of your heart and your home. No matter how hard you try, life without Jesus is full of strife and disharmony. Jesus is the Prince of Peace! Would you allow Him to come into your heart and into your home? If you are living without His blessing, you are not living up to your potential. Let Him come in and open up a new world in a way you may have never imagined.

Go ahead… celebrate, enjoy each other, and make memories.

Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful, New Year!

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How to Overcome Loneliness

Loneliness is a universal problem. No matter who you are or what you have, every person is susceptible to loneliness. It robs many people of vitality in life, yet the ugly face of loneliness can be overcome. If you are reading this and this applies to you, be encouraged. Nothing is impossible for you to overcome.

Holidays and special events can be a great source of loneliness. When we see others surrounded by joy, acceptance, and loving people, our inner being longs to have the same unconditional love and fulfillment.

One of the greatest causes of loneliness is the feeling of betrayal, loss or death. In each case someone has left us. It could be an emotional, mental or physical departure. When we feel betrayed by a friend, family member or even our own spouse, it is a cause for emotional havoc. Sometimes it can be so powerful it affects our physical health. This pain is very real and cannot be dealt with flippantly.

So, is there any hope for us to come out of loneliness and live a fulfilled, satisfied life? Yes; and the answer is a resounding yes!

There are many who have lived before us and overcome loneliness with a great success. Let’s start with our Lord Jesus. One of His closest friends, Peter, betrayed Him. Joseph was betrayed by his own brothers and King David’s own men wanted to stone him to death! Yet, they overcame the challenges of loneliness. They went on to make history and their choices continue to inspire us today. You see, there is nothing wrong feeling lonely every once in a while. On the other hand, there is nothing right staying lonely. You have the power to choose where you want to dwell.

Let me share a few practical steps to overcome loneliness:

1. Stay occupied. Intentionally create a daily “to do list” that leaves little room for time in your hand. I am not suggesting mindless “busy-ness” but rather meaningful interaction and activities that add up to enrich your life or that of someone else.

2. Be with people. If you are prone to loneliness, you must look for opportunities to be with people. Don’t wait for others to call you. Pick up the phone, put on your handsome clothes and be with others. It can be a great incentive to break the bondage of loneliness.

3. Become a giving person. When you are overwhelmed by the feeling of loneliness, force yourself to think of others. Bake a cake or cookies for the elderly, visit someone who is sick or at senior care, or reach out to a person in need. When you help others, God will assist your own needs.

4. Exercise. When you walk, jog, run, or play your favorite sport, you are being proactive against loneliness. When your body sweats, it releases “happy hormones” called endorphins. This naturally lifts your spirit and affects your mood in a positive way.

5. Understand your value. Guilt, shame, and failure all contribute to the feeling of loneliness. If you struggle with any of these (which we all do at times) the best remedy is to accept God’s forgiveness and unmerited favor. When you realize how much God loves you, you will be more secure to accept yourself and others around you.

6. Forgive. Unforgiveness holds people prisoner by their own action. The best thing you can do with your own mistakes is to forgive yourself and move forward. The best thing you can do when people have wronged you is to forgive them and know you are setting a prisoner free – and the prisoner is you!

7. Meditate on the positive. What you take in is what you will pour out. Music, TV, movies, and books can have a great influence in your life and attitude. Do not give in to tear-jerking, sad, melancholy influences. Intentionally give your heart, soul and mind to uplifting, inspiring and positive deposits in your life.

King David, in his greatest moment of despair and loneliness, is quoted in the New Testament, “I will pitch my tent in the land of hope!” Acts 2:26 (The Message). Friend, hope in our God brings joy, purpose and fulfillment. Nothing and no one in this world can fill the God-shaped void in your life. You were created to enjoy life to the fullest. You have something deposited in you that the world craves. Do not get locked in to thinking how lonely you are; instead focus on how you can lift others up. Accept the way God made you. You are His favorite. People who have left you do not determine your destiny – God does. Throw away the garment of heaviness and put on the attitude of royalty. You are awesome and you were created to do great things. You are not alone; you are amazing!

One of the best ways to overcome loneliness is to help others. You can make history! Check out: http://www.buildinternational.org

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How to Celebrate a Stress-Free Christmas

1. Put CHRIST in front of Christ-mas.  He wants your life not your stuff.  Sing and play worship music.  Read the Christmas story from the Bible.  Brag on God’s goodness.  Spend some time alone and thank Him for his unspeakable gift – Jesus!

2. Guard against offenses.  Christmas has become one of the most stressful times of the year.  The word “offense” comes from a Greek word meaning bait.  Don’t bite the devil’s bait.  Don’t wear your feelings on your shoulders.  Give people the benefit of the doubt and be quick to forgive specially those you love. 

3.  Have a relaxed, easy going attitude.   Be more agreeable.  Nothing is worse than living in a house full of strife, getting all stressed out, snapping at each other.  Offenses will come but make up your mind not to get upset.  Go out of your way to let love and peace rule!

4. Beware of the sale and catalogue trap.  Many retailers mark up their prices up to 300% profit before they offer you the “80% off” price.  If it is not on your list, don’t buy.  Don’t spend what you don’t have.  Before you spend, consider the bills that will come due in January!  Most of us don’t need a miracle but a little bit of self-control.  Focus on homemade stuff!  Love is not expressed in the price tag.

5. Spend time not money.  Kids will forget the memory of the latest gadget but the time spent on playing with them, setting up a Christmas tree together, drinking hot chocolate by the fire, reading a Christmas story will create a life-long memory.  Let the kids open some of their gifts early.  Call or visit the elderly.

6. Make a list of jobs to do and check them done.  Set deadlines giving each job adequate time to finish.  Delegate some of the tasks and accept the results.  Don’t stress out if it is not done exactly the way you want but put on a smile and say “well done.”

7. Learn to say no.  You don't have to do it all.  Pick a few things and do it well.  Choose what you want to do and who you want to be with.  You can’t please everyone’s expectation.

8. Do not keep up with the Joneses.  The Bible teaches us not to compare ourselves with others.  Don’t get caught up in what others are buying or doing.  Be content with yours.

9. Take time for yourself.  Take time out to enjoy the season.  Pay attention to what you eat and drink.  Your mood will greatly depend on this.  Enjoy the food in a way that will not disappoint you getting on the scale on January 1st.  Remember, you are responsible for your own happiness!

10. Share the JOY of Christmas.  When something wonderful happens we should tell others about it.  Millions in Asia have never heard about the first Christmas.  You can bring the Gospel to someone for the first time.  No greater gift can you give to Christ than to cause someone to hear the Gospel. 

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