Why the Church in Asia is Exploding

For a believer in Asia, church means the world to them. Majority of the new converts are disowned by their family and often they come to live with the pastor until they’re reestablished. Often pastor’s home is where the abused women or their children run to. A church is a place of refuge and the pastor is the symbol of trust and security because he’s often been to prison for his faith in Christ.

While Christianity is in decline in Europe and North America, masses of people in Asia are turning to Christ. Twenty thousand people are accepting Christ in India every day. In China, twenty five thousand people are following Christ every day. What is the secret of this explosive church growth? Today I want to discuss seven characteristics that are making the church in Asia explode with new converts.

First, the emphasis is on the message not the building. They would like one but majority of the church in Asia do not own a church building. Most of the believers meet in homes, parks, riverside or even in caves. Having church in public places makes it visible to non-believers and they too are drawn to Christ. Not having hefty church mortgage frees up resources to care for the people in the local community.

Second, worship is the main part of the service. It is the loudest part of the service when everyone vocalizes their gratitude. Coming out of the idol worshipping culture, it is easy for them to direct their love, devotion and commitment to a God who has saved them from utter destruction. When they go to church, they are energized to worship God and ready to express their devotion to their Savior, Healer and Deliverer.

Third reason why the Asian church is exploding is emphasis on prayer. Most people have come to the Lord because someone prayed over their sickness and they’re healed. They understand that prayer works. They don’t have access to medical doctors, lawyer, insurance or a financial professional. Christians pray everywhere about everything!

Fourth, signs, wonders and miracles are the life blood of the church in Asia. Over eighty percent of the new believers come to church because they’ve experienced a miracle themselves or someone they know. Interestingly, Christians don’t make a big deal about the miraculous. It is a great tool but it is not sensationalized. Miracles are an everyday part of their lives.

Another characteristic of the Asian church their witness. Believer often do not know a lot of theology but they are bold about telling others what Christ did for them. Often sharing their faith with non-believers causes them to be kicked out of their own homes and school, beaten, persecuted and even imprisoned.

The sixth reason for Asia’s church growth is persecution. Just like in the Book of Acts believers scatter because of persecution. Wherever they go, they take their faith with them and start a new work. Christians are encouraged to turn the other chick instead of seeking political justice. Just like Saul, this causes their persecutors to be convicted. Often the persecutor becomes the promoter of the Gospel.

Last but the not least, the church in Asia is a giving church. There is not much teaching or emphasis on giving but they give much more than ten percent to the work of the Gospel. Often it is in the form of produce, livestock or real estate. They are hospitable, fellowship together over meals and other social events.

Please pray for the revival to continue in Asia. Our brother and sisters need you and your prayers. Will you pray for the church in Asia today? I know you will.

“I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18 KJV).

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Releasing Our Children for Missions

We all celebrate and brag about our children being a medical doctor, teacher, engineer, entrepreneur or an artist. It is the right thing to do. When a young person chooses his/her career on a positive path, we all should be happy and proud of them. What we don’t hear much of these days are young people encouraged to serve God on the mission field abroad or here at home. This is hurting our culture and our influence on the world is declining.

This week I’m extremely proud of my nieces Maria, Christina and their friend Jordan. All in their early twenties, these ladies left the comfort of their homes in Houston to make a trip to Nepal. They’re all exceptional college students but they have a deeper value that sent them to a foreign land to share Christ with others.

As Christian parents we encourage our children to choose a career path that is going to be lucrative financially. There is nothing wrong in that. But if we value our faith and eternal life, we should also encourage our young people to serve God. Young people have the strength, courage and a sense of adventure to go where we may not be able to go right now. When we emphasis the heroism in serving God, we’re impacting eternity through our young generation.

For the next two weeks Maria and her team will touch thousands of lives in Hindu schools, orphanages, speaking in churches, performing skits and singing. They’ll witness to villagers as they trek through the breathtaking Himalayan Mountains. They are going to impact lives for eternity and harvest souls for our Lord.

What should be our response when our children want to serve God? Instead of discouraging them we should empower them. We need to teach our young people that serving God is the greatest vocation in life. When we serve God, we work for the King. The salaries may not be in six figures but the perks and pensions are from out of this world – literally! We must encourage this generation of young people to have a heart for God. It will do us all good to teach our children to have compassionate heart and eternal values.

This is what my friends Dave and Tomme did. Twenty two years ago Dave spent a few weeks on the mission field with me. Ever since he returned he’s been praying, talking and supporting world missions. On my last mission trip, not only Dave was able to return but he brought his 15 year-old son Ben with him. Ben was ahhmazing! Every time I gave him an opportunity he ceased the moment! Young and adults heard their first Bible story from Ben. On the last night of their stay in Nepal was the highlight. Ben showed off his dance moves to the locals and won their hearts forever. Ben will never be the same again neither will be the people he touched!

I know many of my friends are engaging their children in missions. During summer they send their children on mission trips. They need our prayers and support. They need to know we believe in what they’re doing. They need our encouragement.

In the month of July, I’m going back to Asia to minister in China’s persecuted churches. I’d love to have you in my team. If you’ve never been exposed to a short term missions trip, this is your golden opportunity. Only ten to twelve days of your investment can change the rest of your life. We will be training pastors and leaders, ministering to our persecuted brothers and sisters, love on orphan kids and supply thousands of Bibles to China’s underground churches. Are you available? If not, why don’t you send your young people with us? Together, we can change the world!

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8 NIV)

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God Cares About You

My friends Terry and Melissa work very hard and recently they were vacationing in a cruise ship. When they reached St. Martin everyone got off the boat and they were lying on the beach surrounded by spectacular scenes.

The waters were so calm and tempting that Melissa went into the water to splash around. Suddenly from nowhere came a huge wave and knocked her down on the sand.  It was so powerful that her husband had to pull her out of the wave. When she came out of the water she realized that her sunglasses have been washed away by the strong current. They looked everywhere but couldn’t find it. She has had Lasik surgery so she’s really sensitive to the sun. She was so disappointed!

It was a damper in their perfect holiday experience. As she walked back to her beach chair, Melissa quietly prayed under her breath. She said, “Lord I know this sounds ridiculous but would you please help me find my sunglasses?” Within minutes from her prayers she saw a fellow cruiser holding up a pair of sunglasses to his wife. Melissa’s heart jumped for hope. They looked just like hers! She asked, “Hey, did you find those on the beach?” The stranger replied, “Yes, I did. Are they yours?” Melissa replied, “If they’re Ray Ban, yes they’re mine!” Sure enough, those were her Ray Ban! The stranger said, “My son had lost his snorkel, we found it and your sunglasses was stuck with it!”

I love the audacity of my friend’s faith! If you ask them, Melissa and her husband wouldn’t claim to be a “super Christian” but they have “child-like faith.” Imagine! What are the odds of finding a pair of Ray Ban in the vast ocean? What is the chance of a stranger looking for his snorkel and finding the glasses stuck with it? What are the probabilities that they would meet? A few minutes before or after, they would have missed each other!

Friend, this is our God! He knows what you need and how to get it to you. You may think you’re asking for a trivial thing but don’t hold back. God not only cares about your big needs He wants to answer your small prayers. This is what makes our God so intimate and lovable. He is colossal yet He is concerned with the smallest details of our tiny life on earth. Wouldn’t you trust Him with your struggles? He’s a BIG Daddy; He can take care of you.

Today when you go about your day will you pause to remember God? Throughout the day, recognize His presence. Tell others how much you appreciate Him just like Melissa, acknowledge His goodness to me. When you hear someone worried about something, offer to pray for that person. Big or small, our God answers prayers. He wants to be involved in every area of your life. You can worry or you can pray. Prayer is better! All prayers are small for our God. A million dollars or a thousand dollars, cancer or sleepless nights, two bedroom apartments or a dream home, saving a thousand souls or one are all the same for our God. But you have to ask before you can receive. His love for you is so great that He attends to your smallest request. You cannot buy His love and attention with good deeds. He already loves you just the way you are. He cares for the deepest concerns of your heart and He will not ignore your smallest prayers. Instead of getting frustrated why not pray? He knows how to find a pair of Ray Ban in the vast ocean. He will find an answer to your situation also. Listen to what the Word of God says.

"Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you” (Matthew 7:7 God’s Word).

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How to Discover Your Purpose

“Why are we here?” I meet good people in their 50’s and 60’s and they still do not know why they were born. They cannot identify their purpose. Nobody encouraged them to figure it out. They spent their whole life working but now they’re searching for their passion.

Mark Twain said, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” People are often reluctant to discover their purpose because they’re afraid. They’re scared because they think they’ll fail.

Just the other day I met with a young friend in his late twenties. I wanted to help him find his purpose in life. He is a very hard working and vibrant young man. He wants to please God with his life. Today I want to share with you what I told my friend.

The first step of discovering God’s purpose is to ask yourself, “Does it line up with God’s Word?” Therefore, robbing a bank to get rich is out of the question. No matter how much the money, fame and glory, God will never lead you to compromise the values in His Word. It doesn’t matter what you think or anybody else think what matters is what God has purposed for your life. When you God’s will; you’ll prosper!

If you want to discover God’s will or your life, you have to research your natural talents. God will never call you to do something He has not equipped you with. God placed certain gifts and talents to fulfill your purpose. Like digging for gold, it is your job to discover your talent and turn them into treasures.

In our culture, we are often motivated by money more than our talents. What people don’t realize is if you follow your talent, money will follow you. Moreover you don’t have to throw away your life working at a mundane job and complain how much you hate your job! Your extra-ordinary gifts and talents will draw extra-ordinary treasures into your life. Passion cannot be bought with money. If you follow your passion, you may not be the richest man around the block but you’ll be the happiest and most fulfilled person. Discover your purpose and provisions will find you.

One of the best ways to discover your natural talent is to make a list of top ten things you enjoy doing. Then start to prioritize them. You can be almost certain that your life has something to do with the top three or five items on your list. I’m not talking about your hobbies, I’m talking about things you love to do even if you never get paid or recognition for it. If you’re older and wiser, sometimes it can be something you’ve never done before. It’s never too late to find and live your passion!

Passion is visible. Sometimes, we’re legends in our own minds. Everybody else but you can see you’re not the next Frank Sinatra. A healthy way to find your passion is to ask others what they see in you. People who are close to you know you the best. Others will see what God put in you. Sometimes, they can give you unbiased perspective. Most of the time, they will confirm the things that you already know. Asking those who you know will bring reality check into your purpose. Wisest king Solomon said, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”

Last but not the least God will speak to YOU louder about your future than any other person in the world. Your destiny is not dependent on other people’s opinion of you. Your parents, teachers, family, friends and loved ones may give you guidance and input but only you are responsible for your own life. It’s never too late to discover the champion in you. Do not be influenced by your past experience. You must ask and trust God to bring in the resources you need. You’ve got what it takes. He’s got to whole world in His Hands and He’s got you. Will you dare to discover God’s purpose for your life? He’s ready to reveal it to you more than you’d want to know!

“Agree with God, and be at peace; thereby good will come to you” (Job 22:21 ESV).

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Put Systems in Place

A friend of mine is trying to get his business to a new level. We’re calling it his ten thousand level. He is realizing that he has to put systems in place before he can grow. The more automated we are the more efficient and productive we become.

When an airplane takes off he has to depend heavily on the flight control tower. The pilot and the plane may be ready to climb but until the control tower gives them clearance they have to cruise at the same altitude. It doesn’t matter how much experience he has, the pilot must wait. Only when it is safe and friendly skies the ground control clears the plane to climb to the next level. The traffic control people have the bigger picture, they can see what’s safe and what’s not.

Life often works the same way. God is the control Tower, or at least He wants to be. God can see what’s best for us. He knows what job is best for you. He knows who is going to be your best life partner. He knows how much money is safe for you to manage. He knows how much stress, popularity and influence you can handle. The key to a blessed life is to put your systems in place until you get clearance from God to go to your next level.

Any time you want growth, you have to make room for more. To make room for more, often you have to start with getting rid of what’s been occupying the space before. Most of the times if you want to do something new you have to get rid of the old.

If you want to go to your ten thousand level you must have a ten thousand level mindset. You simply cannot peck with the turkeys and expect to fly like an eagle. Our thought process will determine the outcome of our lives. Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” Going to our level requires getting rid of negative thinking, having low level character, being greedy for quick gain, lack of service and lack of integrity.

If you want to go to a new level, you have to use highly sensitive filters. The higher you climb to your success the more people will talk behind your back, discredit you, and critics will come out of the woodworks. You cannot trust everything you feel and certainly you cannot respond to everything you hear. You have to be on alert not to let anything negative stick to you. A Nepalese proverb says, “Let the elephant walk and the dog bark.” You decide if you want to walk or if you want to bark! If you want a place of prominence and influence, you have to have elephant skin. Don’t let your feelings eat your day. Let the criticisms and discouragements slide off you like water off a duck’s back.

Another vital part of putting systems in place is to stay inspired. This is one of the main purposes why I write these blogs. My goal is to empower YOU to become all that God has called you to be. Life has a way of draining us. Unless you’re on the offensive to stay encouraged and challenged, you will lose focus. Today I challenge you to put systems in place. God has already cleared the way for your new heights. But you have to give up the low life. Let go of old habits that are holding you back. Put on a new attitude. Be generous. Help someone in need. Surround yourself with wise friends. Make your life about others. When you put these systems in place, God will give you clearance to soar to your ten thousand level… twenty thousand level… and ultimately to the maximum cruising altitude. Are you ready to go to your next level? I know you are!

“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV).

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Double for Your Trouble

Some of you know that my luggage was lost en-route my recent mission trip to Asia. When I got there, I was frustrated. For the first two days I was anxious and tried everything I could to locate my prodigal suitcase but to no avail!

After multiple attempts dealing with the airlines I was dangerously close to losing my temper as I’ve done many times before. But I’ve been growing. I heard the small voice of the Holy Spirit saying, “I’ve brought you here to touch thousands of lives are you going to let a lost suitcase sidetrack your purpose?” I was ashamed of myself. I stopped calling the airline and went on to touch over five thousand lives for our Lord.

After several weeks, my time on the mission field came to an end and I had survived with one shirt and a pair of jeans. I borrowed clothes once. Yes, I did wash my clothes at night.

After forty days, I got a call from a stranger. He said, “This is Mr. Jose from Mexico City, Mexico. I’m from the American Airlines. We saw your phone number on the suitcase. We have your lost baggage and we want to return it to you.” (I flew with another airline to Asia). Somehow my luggage ended up in Mexico. In a couple of days I picked up my suitcase. A few electronic items were missing. So I reported that immediately. The same day, when I looked at my mail a check was waiting to recover all the missing items plus more. When I tried to refund the excess amount they said, “Just keep the whole check for the trouble that was caused due to this incident.”

When I started to ponder on this whole episode, I couldn’t help but think of God’s goodness. Life doesn’t always play out as we want to but in the midst of our chaos God is always working. You may have problems that is insurmountable; dreams that are impossible. But let me tell you this, when we are patient and faithful toward our God, He will reward you double for your trouble. That sickness that has plagued you for years will be healed instantly. Your legal problem will be resolved in your favor with penalty and interest. You’ll qualify and move into your dream house. The mission trip you’ve been praying for will suddenly be funded. Friend, you may not see it coming but God is working behind the scenes. Stay in faith. He’s putting on the right connections and he’s lining up the right people.

Here’s my challenge for you today. Just because it’s taking a long time, don’t pull out your seed of faith. The more intense the pressure and the battle the sweeter and greater your victory will be.

Stay in faith! Faith is thanking God for tomorrow’s victory while you’re still fighting today’s battle. One thing you can do in the heat of the battle is to get your mind off the fight. The more you need the situation to change the less you’ve to look at your adversity. A farmer doesn’t plant a seed and then come back every day saying, “When are going to produce fruit? When am I going to eat of my labor?” No. A farmer has quite confidence that the seed is planted to produce. He goes his merry way, doing his due diligence waiting for the right season to harvest. The Word of God is the seed. Let’s stand on His promises. Let’s be patient and wait for the right time. When we do, God will reward us double for our trouble.

“Come home, hope-filled prisoners! This very day I’m declaring a double bonus—everything you lost returned twice-over” (Zechariah 9:12 The Message)!

What are your thoughts?

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You Must Dream

We are a product of God’s dream. When God created us He put a little bit of Himself in each of us. Part of our DNA is to be able to dream. When we dare to dream, we’re like God. When we confine ourselves into everyday monotony, we’re limiting our endless possibilities. Living life without a dream is like a GPS without a satellite.

Most of us start off in life with great expectations. But negative experiences keep us from dreaming. When we are disappointed about something we’re once so passionate about we stop dreaming. Broken promises, broken dreams make us lose passion for life. Today I want to light a fire in you – dare to dream again! If you dream it; God will bring it (to pass). Dreams still come true!

Another deterrent to dream is time. When we pursue our dream and nothing happens for a long time we tend to put our dreams in the back burner. Once we’re so eager to get a college degree but now its way down in the priority list. Once we’re determined to take a voice lesson or improve on our skills but now they are on hold. Time has a way of robbing us from our dreams. Don’t let time keep you from dreaming.

If God has said it He will do it. He wants you to live happy, fulfilled and a productive life.

I have many friends who are waiting for their ship to arrive. They want their business to turn around. I have friends who want their relationships to be restored. Then there are others who have been sick for a long time. Few of my friends are still looking for a job or a better job. Some are waiting for their children to turn around. Friend, it’s good to wait for your ship to arrive. But then there are times, you have to swim to your ship in the ocean! No matter how long it has been and how many setbacks you’ve had, you must sail again.

As a Christian leader, I find it offensive that non-believers are redefining our culture. They have an agenda. They’re passionate about life. They are top producers. They’re inventing new things. Today I want to encourage us to dream BIG dreams. Dreaming ignites creativity. Dream makes us pregnant with hope, purpose and passion. Where is your dream taking you today? Are your dreams big enough to change the world or do they just involve you and your family? If we’re not living our dream now, let me sound an alarm – you’ll have a lot to catch up with as you grow older. Even worse, you’ll have a lot of regrets reminiscing what could have been. I challenge you to live now. Make the most of what you have now. Give your best at what God has called you to be. You are a world changer! Don’t just breathe; live life to the fullest. Set goals, plan and pursue. God is with you and He is for you.

The Bible is full of people who pursued their dreams. It took Moses forty years but he led God’s people to the Promised Land. Abraham, Joseph and David all had to wait but they succeeded. The dreams and visions in your heart are from God. If you go after it you too will succeed. Awaken the giant within you. You’ve got what it takes. You’ve got heavens resources to back you up. This week, dream BIG and help someone fulfill their dream. When you help fulfill their dreams, God will help you with yours. Your business will go to a new level. Your church will grow. Your marriage will be restored. Your child will come home. Your health will spring forth. Your debts will be canceled. Will you dare to dream again? I know you will. Tell us how we can pray for you.

“Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry” (Habakkuk 2:2-4 NKJV).

What are your dreams?

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An Angel, Beauty Pageant and a Superhero

Mothers come in all variations but one thing is common – they’re all angels. A world without moms will be a world without colors. A mother’s love, dedication and sacrifice make the world go around.

This Mother’s Day we want to celebrate mothers. You are the Person of Our Life. You have the uncanny ability to exhaust yourself daily. Today we’re going to look at seven reasons to celebrate Mother’s Day.

You are beautiful inside out. No matter what you think of yourself, you are beautiful. When a heart is filled with a mother’s love you’re the most attractive person in the world. You’re the ultimate expression of God’s unconditional love and beauty.

You’re creative. Mothers are the most creative people on earth. Only a mother can sooth a child’s pain, heal their hurt and cook their favorite food. No matter how old the children become mothers always have creative solutions to their lives. Your creativity spreads through generations that eventually become tradition.

You are courageous. Who in the world would volunteer to bear children? You may be weak on the outside but you’re a woman of steel and determination on the inside where it counts the most.

You’re the best teacher. Mothers are the first teachers in every person’s life. They teach us everything important in life. If mothers wouldn’t have done their job our world would be filled with illiterate, uncivilized and selfish people. Mothers know how to bring out the best in us.

You are wise. A mother’s heart continually pours out wisdom. Every success in life begins with a mother’s wisdom. You taught us to take a bath, take a turn, share, be friendly, eat our vegetables and say our prayers. These are the foundations for life!

You are inspirational. At the darkest moments of our lives you believe in us. You inspire us to become anything we want. You see our success before we see it ourselves. Mother, you’re the greatest visionary in the world!

You’re a real life superhero. We’re all captivated by superhero movies and secretly desire to be one. Mothers are superheroes by default. Only you can change a diaper, demolish a mountain of laundry, cook like a chef, teach like a genius, and look like a beauty pageant. Your role as a mother is nothing short of a superhero.

So on this Mother’s Day we want to say, THANK YOU MOM FOR EVERYTHING YOU ARE AND EVERYTHING YOU DO. You make our lives and our world go around. You are an angel sent by God. You deserve all our praise, accolade and celebration.

Happy Mother’s Day!

“Clothed in strength and dignity, with nothing to fear, she smiles when she thinks about the future. She conducts her conversations with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is ever her concern” (Proverbs 31:25-26 Voice).

What are your thoughts?

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God Wants to Heal You

There are so many debates about healing. Some say it is for today others say it’s not for today. Yet others say if God wants to heal me He can but I’m not going to pursue it. What is God’s will for healing today?

One of the most misunderstood concepts from the Bible is that God made people sick or even worse, He killed them. When you read the Old Testament saying something like that the original translation conveys the message “God allowed” people to be sick or be killed. There are many instances when God removed His Hand of protection and people came under heavy fire. King Saul was a great example of this.

The Bible says that Jesus went about doing good, healing all manners of sicknesses. It helps me to ascertain everything good comes from God. I’m not talking about dealing with our flesh but a theological concept that God cannot dish out anything bad. Like in Job’s case, He allows certain things to happen but when we’re following our Lord faithfully, He protects us and favors us with divine health.

If we’re going to be in health and free from our sicknesses we have to be absolutely convinced that it is God’s will for us to be healed. The Bible says a double minded person receives nothing from the Lord. I submit that you take off your denominational glasses and read the Gospels and the New Testament with an open mind. Everywhere Jesus went people gathered to Him for healing and He healed them. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. That’s why today, all around the world people are still receiving their supernatural healings.

In one story in the Bible, the religious leaders of the day questioned a young man how he was healed on a Sabbath day. They wanted to trap Jesus. They wanted to uphold the Law. Today, you may hear different opinions of man. But one thing I will assure you, Jesus will heal you any day of the week! The blind man replied, “Listen guys, I do not know the answers to all your questions but I can tell you this – once I was blind and now I can see.” What a testimony of God’s heart for healing! If you want to be healed, don’t try to figure out who, how and when. Simply yield to God’s will and say, “Lord, I receive my healing. Thank you!”

A lot of emphasis has been put on faith as the basis for our healing. While I believe that we must have faith to receive anything from God, I also know that God acts sovereignly to heal people as well. The man at the pool of Bethesda is one example of such divine healing. The Bible says that he waited for his healing for thirty eight years! One day Jesus showed up and asked the man with the withered hand, “Do you want to be healed?” Understand that this man has been waiting for a long time. His faith had worn out. In modern terms you can say, he’d been prayed for by the pastor, evangelist and been to the healing crusades. You may have done the same. But thank God for his mercy. In spite of his lack of faith, Jesus looked at that man and said, “Get up and walk.” Friend, I believe today God is telling us to “get up” on the inside of our spirit. See yourself “walking” and then take corresponding actions to manifest your healing. Jesus is still the greatest Physician and He still heals today. Not only does He heal our physical sickness but He heals every emotional, mental and psychological illness. He will heal your marriage, business and a sinning heart. Jesus will heal every part that hurts. Why don’t you receive His free gift of healing today? I’m praying for you today!

“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people” (Matthew 4:23 NIV).

What are your thoughts?

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Forgive or Forfeit

One of the hidden things that keep us from living an abundant life is unforgiveness. We all have people in our lives that have hurt us. No matter who did what, we must forgive people so that we can move forward to inherit the blessings God has for us.

In our own minds, we all have reasons why we cannot forgive the offender. I can hear you say, “Sandy, you don’t know what he did to me.” No, I don’t but if you don’t forgive it will hinder your own life. When we harbor bitterness, anger and resentment toward others, we’re sabotaging our own future.

One of the main reasons we should forgive people is for our own good. You can say forgiveness is a selfish thing. As long as we hold a grudge or resentment against our offender, we are allowing that person to have control over us. It’s bad enough to be offended once, how miserable it is to feel the pain over and over because we wouldn’t forgive. When you forgive you set a prisoner free – that prisoner is you. No matter what motivates you, learn to forgive people.

People often find it hard to forgive because we’ve been told we have to forgive immediately. It’s true that the sooner you forgive the lesser you’ll have to deal with the pain. But forgiveness doesn’t have to be instant. In most cases, forgiveness is a process. First, you make up your mind to forgive. Then you start the process of removing the memory of the pain. Decide to forgive is easy. Erasing the memory is not so easy. This is why we need God to help us forgive others.

When people offend us it is like a burn. It takes a split second to get a burn but the pain remains for days and even weeks. Sometimes the burn stings longer than the original offense. The more we ponder and play it in our mind, the longer we’ll carry that offense. One way we can erase the memory of the pain is to stop replaying the offence like a broken record in our brain. Every time we re-live the offence, we’re scratching an old wound to reopen. A better way to deal with an offense is to switch off your mind to a victory channel. You’re not a victim, you’re a victor!

Another way we can forgive an offense is to stop talking about it. Every time we start up a conversation about the incident, we’re giving it longevity. Don’t go around saying, “Girlfriend, let me tell you what so and so did to me thirteen years ago!” No, when we keep talking about the offense we’re keeping it alive in life support. At some point (sooner the better) you have to stop talking about it.

For a Christian, forgiveness is a choice but it is not an option. Understand that God expects us to forgive because we have our own need to be forgiven. The Lord’s Prayer teaches us to forgive others even as God forgives us. Truth is we’ve hurt others. We want others to forgive us. When we don’t extend to others what we receive from God, we’re being out of balance. Get rid of the poison that you now harbor. The only way to be really happy and free is to forgive the people who have hurt you. Release them to the Lord. Let it go. If we don’t forgive, we will forfeit the full blessing God has for us. Start the process today and you’ll be free the rest of your life. I know you can. I’m proud of you!

“Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you’ll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God’s generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God’s lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God’s blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears” (Hebrews 12:14-17 The Message).

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Pressing Through a Difficult Season

I have several friends right now who are going through a dark season in their lives. Business is slow, health is failing, relationships are breaking up and their trust in God is shaky. What to do while going through a difficult season and come out victoriously?

The first thing I will tell you is to understand that this is only a season. When we realize every season has its shelf-life, we will not give up so easily. Nothing that goes down in life has to stay down. In fact if you’ve hit rock bottom, the only thing that can happen is for things to look up. Down season comes to everyone’s life. How we handle our difficult season will determine how quickly we will enjoy our next.

When the storm arose in the Sea of Galilee, Jesus was fast asleep. The disciples panicked but Jesus slept. Same circumstance - two completely different responses. When difficult time knocks at your door don’t say, “Why is this happening to me?” Answer the challenge and remind your heart, “All is well. Everything will be alright in the end. If it’s not alright, it’s not the end.” Don’t panic. Instead of looking at the storm consider who is in the boat with you. Jesus said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Another thing you can check while going through a tough time is your attitude. Keep your inner dialogues going in the right direction. Be healthy in your thought life. Because you’re a human being, you can’t help but feel discouraged and despair at times. There’s nothing wrong feeling down; but there’s nothing right staying down. The better you win the inner battle the sooner you’ll experience victory on the outside. At times the battle gets most intense when you’re closest to your victory. Stay calm, cool, and collected. You’re on a fixed fight. God has already won the battle for us.

One of the most difficult things to do going through a season of disappointments is to keep our mouth shut. We like to vent. At times things are so stressed that we feel like a pressure cooker ready to burst. It’s perfectly alright to share your struggle with people who will encourage you and build you up in your faith. You can vent but don’t make it your song for the day. Encourage yourself in the promises of God. Get backup support in prayers. Watch what you say. When you feel like speaking the most is the time for you to say nothing. Don’t abort your dream by spurting out a bunch of negative words. Feelings are fickle. Faith is stable!

Another thing you can do is to consider your friends. If you have a bunch of negative, doubting, critical friends, you’ll end up prolonging your tough season. Find faith-filled friends who will listen to you vent but then pull you out of your pit. Overdose on the faith food. Our God is a positive God. Find positive friends.

When Sir Edmond Hillary failed in one of his attempts to scale the Mt. Everest, he was called to give a speech on his experience. He paused at one of the slides of Mt. Everest, shook his fist and announced, “Mt. Everest, you’ve grown all you can but I will grow bigger from my experience and conquer you!” Soon after, Edmond Hillary became the first person to top the Mt. Everest. What about you? Are you going to overcome your giants or are you going to leave it to your children or grandchildren? Be courageous. Grow during your season of pain and struggle. You too will overcome the obstacles facing you today. You’re fighting a fixed fight. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19 NKJV).

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Preparing for the Best

It is sad to say but human nature is to settle for less. We tend to blow things up on the negative side but not so generous to think good things for ourselves. It’s good to be humble but it’s also okay to expect great things to happen to and for us.

When we’re expecting good things we’ll draw in the blessings of God. It’s not a sin to desire the good life. However, it is a sin to hoard the blessings God gives us. Sometimes I can’t help but think people have been brain washed to believe God objects the fine things of life.

Throughout the Scriptures God is represented as one who blesses. Repeatedly He replaced negative circumstances and turned it into positive. There were many wealthy people who were part of God’s plan and He used them mightily. I believe, Christians should be the happiest, healthiest, wisest, most favored and prosperous people in the world. God not only loves the poor but He loves the rich as well. Yet, we hesitate to go all out and expect great blessings from our God.

Truth is you cannot be a blessing to others unless you have something to give away. This is not only true in terms of finances but also our attitude, character, love, joy, peace, influence and abundance of resources. We can only give what we have. So why not strive for the best things of/from God?

We all remember the parable of the talent. One got five talents, another two and one. The first two individuals looked at their gifts and talents and said to themselves, “I’m going to do great things with what God has given me.” They had a mindset to produce great things for God. As they did their due diligence, God blessed the work of their hands and prospered them. We all know what happened to the last person who did not believe in the talent God had given him.

Today, I’m encouraging us to believe the best from our God. Don’t just settle for what you want and need but believe God for more so that you can have plenty of joy, peace, love and abundance of resources to share with others. Dare to believe God for finer things in life. No one is going to limit you from what you receive from your God. Only you have the power to limit God’s blessings in your own life.

In the Bible, the children of Israel limited God and it made Him angry. Don’t do the same mistake of living a mediocre life and having a barely get by mentality. Expect the best things from life. Believe in God, believe in people and believe in yourself.

Turn off your negative expectations. Move away from self-pity, discouragement and defeated mindset. God wants to promote you. He wants you to be happy and fulfilled in your family. He wants to give you the desires of your heart. He will spread a banquet table right in front of your enemies. He will vindicate you. He will set you high above all nations. Your name and legacy will be great. You will leave a mark for God. Prepare for the best and not the worst. Set your mind going in the right direction. God is preparing a great future for you. Prepare for the best! I’m praying for you.

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome” (Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified).

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Invest in Your Relationships

Life and happiness are based on the relationships we have. The quality of our life depends on the quality of our relationships. When we invest in the relationships God has given us we are building others and advancing our own cause.

The cornerstone of all relationship is love and respect. When we learn to respect others as much we love ourselves, we will build strong relationships. Respect means to value a person with the same measure we measure ourselves. It means we don’t have to belittle others to make ourselves look better. When we respect others we look at people in one class – a child of God!

Another great ingredient to building better relationship is to make small adjustments. For some of you that means to be a better listener. For others it means to lower our voices. Yet some of us can improve our relationship by learning to give compliments. A little adjustment in our attitude and action can improve our relationships a great deal.

When we learn to honor others we’re adding value to that person. How many times we have snapped at our spouse, a loved one or a co-worker simply because we forget to honor the people God sends in our lives. When we honor people, we don’t shout, pout, belittle or break the trust of our loved ones. And when we do, we should be quick to ask for forgiveness. When we honor others, we don’t keep track of their wrongs, their weaknesses or gossip about their failures. The more we go out of our way to honor someone the more we’ll draw in God’s favor into our own lives.

A great way to measure our relationships standards is to evaluate the application of the golden rule – do unto others as you’d want others to do to you. Most of us want to be on the receiving end of the golden rule but our relationships will go to a new level if we live by the golden rule. Let’s study the person we love, respect and care. What makes them laugh? What makes them feel valued? What makes them feel fulfilled? What we deposit in people is what we’ll draw out of them.

A sure way to have better relationships down on earth is to have a great relationship with our Heavenly Father. When we have a healthy relationship with heaven, we’ll have better relationships on earth. When we accept Christ into our hearts, we tap into God’s reservoir to love people unconditionally, see people more importantly and treat people more respectfully. How is your relationship with heaven?

We all want to live happy and fulfilled. One way to ensure that is to have better relationships. Let’s respect and honor the people God put in our lives. Let’s be sensitive and make small adjustments. Let’s forgive quickly and treat others the way we want to be treated. When we are connected to our Heavenly Father, we’ll connect better with the people on earth. What we invest in a relationship is what we’re going to get out of it. Let’s invest in building better relationships!

“Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand” (Philippians 2:3-4 The Message).

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Replacing Fear with Faith

Faith and fear operate in the same way. Yet, most people choose fear over faith. Somewhere in their deep–rooted thinking, they fear God is going to punish them for the wrongs they have done.

Just the other day I was visiting with a young friend. He was distraught about something he had done years before is catching up to him. He confessed that he was subdued with fear. Even though he’s repented and ceased from his old ways, he was having trouble going past his mistakes.

I told my friend what I’m telling you. There’s nothing in your past that the grace of God cannot forgive. If you’ve brought it under the blood of Jesus, you’re free. Instead of fear you can activate your faith. Where there is faith, there are miracles.

If you notice, fear is always based upon the future. Nobody is sure of tomorrow but when fear grips our hearts we’re crippled by a future that no one knows. We are not certain about tomorrow but we buy into believing that something bad will happen to us in the future. This is a terrible way to live.

“Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” ~ Francis Chan

One of the greatest amongst fear is the fear of failing. How we look at failure will determine what feats we’ll accomplish in life. A lot of my friends are very smart and they own businesses. Every once in a while I’ll hear them say, “We’re going to have a bad year.” They’re almost expecting business to fail because they’ve heard some news experts or read a newspaper column.

Just the other day a friend told me how he lost a lot of money on stocks that he had bought out of fear. He heard a person from a respectable platform and read his book that planted a seed of fear in his heart. After he lost a lot of money on his “fear stock” God began to deal with him. Now he is activating faith instead of fear. I say this respectfully but just because someone claims to be an “expert” doesn’t mean they can predict your future. Instead of trusting in man, learn to trust the leading of the Holy Spirit. He will lead and guide you into all Truth.

Sometimes people closest to us can cause panic in our hearts. Our friends have a huge influence over our lives. If we’re spending bulk of our time with naysayers, don’t be surprised if your fear overtakes your faith. Be friendly to all people but don’t bring naysayers home with you. Make friends with faith-filled people.

Today whatever may come your way I challenge you to replace fear with faith. If it is a business decision, go with peace in your heart. If it’s a health issue, trust God’s Word for full recovery. If you’re concerned about your finances, remember God our Provider. If you’re worried about your children, give them up to God. He knows how to keep them safe and bring them to a flourishing finish. Doubt, fear and uncertainty will knock on your door but answer it with faith. You’re not washed up. God has a perfect mate in store for you. He will heal your marriage. He has commanded His angels to be strong on your behalf and execute victory in your situation. Replace faith with fear. God is with you and He is for you!

“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me” (Psalm 23:4 NLT).

What are your thoughts?

Change the World with the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

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