The You In You

Occupy The City

2012-01-03T11:57:00.006-05:00

In January 2010 we the Nations Ford Community Church, launched a three-year initiative to impact the city of Charlotte in positive life-changing ways. We called that initiative Occupy! We reached a milestone in 2010 as the members of NFCC volunteered and served out in the community and within the Church for a total of 25,000 hours. This met our first year's goal.

In 2011, we again set out to give 25,000 hours of service to our community and thus be a visible witness of God's love. Once again the members of Nations Ford Community Church reach their collective goal of 25,000 volunteer hours of service.

Now at the beginning of 2012, we once more seek to reach out and Occupy The City, by giving and serving and sharing the compassionate love of Jesus with those who are lost, hurting and confused.

We believe that God has blessed us to be a blessing to others and that the more we give the more we received so that we have even more to give.

This is a year in which we must get radical about our calling…to Occupy The City! The problems of our city; our communities; our families; and in our schools;

The problems in government; in media; in education and in business…are too crucial and critical; for God’s people, to simply go about business as usual.

We must get radical…about representing Jesus and radical about serving the poor; radical about reaching and teaching our young Black boys and mentoring our young girls…

We must get radical in our stand to protect the traditional family unit and rise to support the North Carolina Marriage Amendment this coming May in the primary elections.

We be radical in our belief that Jesus calls us to "be the salt of the earth and the light of the world."

Radical is a word that simply means: different, drastic, unusual, extreme and fanatic --- it is a change of lifestyle that Christ is calling His Church to.

This is the lifestyle that Jesus called us to…and to which He sends us into the city! It is a radical departure from what we see in American Churches today. In American Churches today …we have watered down the calling of Christ to be His disciples! We have watered down the call to follow Christ and to exchange our comfort for a commitment to give our all to Him!

I believe that 2012 will be a year for radical living and that we, the Church, God's people will rise to the occasion, serving, giving, sharing, and leading people to a life-changing relationship with Christ.

Take Time To Gather Yourself

2011-12-26T13:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, another year is almost gone. Time waits for no one. One of my favorite Bible verses says, “Redeem the time...” another one says, “Number your days…”

No matter how hectic your pace has been or how busy you are, this is the time to make sure you make time to reflect, think, give and plan.

I generally take this week between Christmas and New Year's and lock myself away for a few days. I find that this is the ideal time for reflection, thinking, giving and planning. Let me encourage you to do some very simple things during this time:
1) Try to slow things down.
2) Spend time with the ones you love and care about.
3) Take some time to talk with your spouse and children about goals and dreams for the next year.
4) Use this as a time to revision your vision; charge your batteries
5) Find a Church or charitable organization and volunteer a few hours
6) Think about a few of changes or additions you want to see in your life in the New Year.

In my opinion, taking the time to gather yourself; to reflect; to think; to dream and to plan is one of the most important and valuable things that you can do to impact and influence the New Year in a positive way.

One last word. You must commit yourself to set aside this time…or you will find yourself once again keeping a hectic pace and a busy schedule which will rob you of this moment.

Gather your past successes; past victories; past failures and defeats…reflect on your seasons of growth and your seasons of stagnation…then use all that to clear your way; wipe the slate clean and begin again with a fresh set of well-thought out goals, visions, and dreams.

Happy New Year!

Join The Movement To Save The Seed

2011-11-16T13:23:00.000-05:00

I am raising funds for The Male Leadership Academy. The links belowe will give you the full story of why an all male school and how you can get involved. I am asking you to join the movement to help raise up a generation of young men who know their identity and who will be leaders for us in the future.

Thanks,

PMD

https://savetheseedcampaign.org/fundraise/for/PhillipMDavis

Be Faithful Over A Few Things

2011-11-04T06:47:00.000-04:00

Over the past couple of days, I have been reminded on more than one occasion that God requires and rewards faithfulness. In 1 Timothy 1:12, the Apostle Paul said, "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry."

Paul had a past that would have disqualified him from the Lord's service in most modern Churches. He was known as the 'cheif of sinners', a blasphemer, persecutor and violent aggressor (1 Tim. 1:13-15). Yet after He met Jesus on the Damascus Road, everything changed.

With the same zeal and ferver that he once sought to destroy the Church and Christians, Paul used that same energy to promote the Gosple and the love of God to all men and women. Paul was faithful to the call of Christ and the assignment given Him by God to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. Just as faithful and even more so, than he was to his past life as one who sought to destroy the Church.

Paul was rewarded greatly for his faithfulness. He said as he came to the close of his life, "I have fought the good faith, I have finished my course, I kept the faith." Because of his faithfulness, he was assured that, "Therefore there is laid up for me the crown of righteouness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day..."

Today and always remember that the gifts and the calling of God on your life...are yours to be faithful over.

A Word About Occupy

2011-10-28T11:12:00.000-04:00

Occupy Wall Street; Occupy Charlotte and all the other Occupy protest have nothing in common with Nations Ford Community Church, which has been using the Occupy Theme for over 2 years. For us, the word occupy does not suggest a protest against the wealthy, the banks, or the productive taxpaying citizens and corporations of our nation.

Occupy is a Biblical mandate that we have from our God to possess the land in which we live and to pray for that land as well as influence for His glory and His kingdom. Occupy is what we do, we invest in ourselves and in our communities by providing life skills training; we influence people, communities and governments through our volunteer acts of service; we impact our culture with a positive message of change and empowerment; we involve ourselves as servants to our city and communities; thus we increase the presence of a loving God in our city and communities.

For the past two years, we have been Occupying by donating and contributing over 25,000 volunteer hours of service per year, to the city and various agencies and ministries. Occupying is not a matter of looking for hand-outs and complaining about the wealthy; the taxpayers; and those who take personal responsibility. Occupying is about being responsible and serving our communities and thus taking the social responsibility of enhancing the lives of families and individuals out of the hands of big government and placing it where it belongs in the hands of individuals, families and communities.

Nations Ford Community Church is committed to continue occupying in a Biblical sense and giving itself in service for the ultimate cause of Christ and His Kingdom!

Lesbian Elected To Run In General Election

2011-09-14T08:19:00.000-04:00

In the Charlotte, NC Primary Election, District Three democrats just elected an opening gay lesbian to run in the November general election.

What are your thoughts?

Is It Just A Matter Of Time?

2011-08-09T09:18:00.000-04:00

In 1 Chronicles 12:32, the Bible says that, "...the sons of Issachar, understood the times and knew what Israel ought to do." There is a crying need in our world today in general and the United States in particular for modern day sons of Issachar. Our world is in desperate need of leaders men and women who can discern the seasons and times and who have the wisdom of God to know what we ought to do.

When we examine some of the recent developments around the world, we can't help but to see the parallel track upon which the United States is traveling. Is it just a matter of time? The overgrown and blotted socialist governments of Europe, including England and Ireland are crumbling. The overgrown and blotted socialist governments of Spain and Greece are bankrupt. The overgrown and blotted socialist governments of France and Germany are on the verge.

Government cannot continue to grow and fund and give entitlements to people who are unproductive. Why? Because when those same governments finally wake up and realize that they cannot sustain the entitlements and welfare states that they have created and try to make changes and cut back on the give-aways...the people revolt. When the government pay people not to work...and when the government creates temporary, unsustainable jobs to bolster political campaigns ultimately those impacted will revolt in some way, when their entitlement is taken from them or threatened.

Is it just a matter of time, before we in this country see the same type of riots in the streets and protest that we are witnessing around the world? I say yes...it is just a matter of time!

Our government's socialist policies and inept economic policies (from the failed famous $800 Billion Bail Out to the ridiculous display during the Debt Ceiling Debacle) have all but crippled the ingenuity and creativity of the American worker and further feed the entitlement mentality of our culture. When are we going to get it? Governments do not create wealth; nor do governments create sustainable jobs that contribute to the long-term economic growth of an economy.

Soon our political representatives will have to face the music and will have to cut entitlement programs such as Unemployment Insurance; Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security Supplement (notice the word supplement)...and when this happens, we will see a duplication of the protect of the Middle East and the riots of Europe right here in America. Its just a matter of time.

2011-07-11T10:49:00.000-04:00

THEME: THE MIND OF CHRIST - THE ATTITUDE OF AN ACHIEVER

TEXT: 1 CORINTHIANS 2:16; PHILIPPIANS 2:01 – 10

Introduction

Today' word from the Lord is designed to cause each of us to examine our motivation for service and our level of our commitment:

A. To our relationship with Jesus Christ

B. To our local Church
C. To living an authentic Christian life in general

I am confident that there is absolutely nothing that can stand against; prevent or prevail against the church when we stand together united in purpose and in our minds. This is essentially the message of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the church at Philippi.

Paul was encouraging them to stand firm in their commitment to one another even in the midst of the pressures and persecutions that they were facing daily! He had to remind them to stick together and stay together…and in their time of crisis not to turn on each other – but rather to turn to each other.

It takes a certain mind (attitude), a certain maturity and willingness to turn to one another – rather than turning on one another - when the pressure is on and the enemy is trying to do everything he can to pull us apart.

It takes a certain mind (attitude) to turn to one another – rather than on one another when the enemy has come in like a flood; when the resources are limited and when the challenges are great.

Jesus said in Matthew 12:25, “…Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” When we as the church stand united there is nothing impossible for us to accomplish. When we all use our gifts and each of us does what we have been anointed to do – then that which seems impossible becomes possible.

The same is true in our homes; our communities; our cities and our nation. Therefore Satan will do all he can to destroy the unity of your family…the unity of a community and the unity of the church.

It is important to note that the Apostle Paul was having some people problems. People problems can rob you of your joy – if you allow it! Paul had problems with the people in Rome (1:15-18) and now he was having problem with the people in Philippi. There were some bad attitudes developing in the church at the most in opportune time.

This was a time when the church was being tested and tempted…there were false teachers creeping in and false prophets rising up; in addition they were under persecution and having hard economic times. If there ever was a time for them to band together; stand together and stay together…now was the time.

I believe that if there ever were a time for the church today to band together; stand together and stay together – now is the time. Now is the time to stand together against the false teachers of perverted values; against the radical courts who redefine the family and legalize homosexual marriages; against the violence of gangs; against the ignorance of racism; the crisis of AIDS; the spread of illiteracy; the dumbing down of our educational standards in our schools; the lack of skilled workers and the general apathy and moral decay in our land.

Now is the time to band together; stand together and stay together in bringing pressure on the political machinery of both the Republican and Democratic Parties who continue to play games with the laws of the land; ignore the Constitution and enrich themselves off the taxes of the American people.

If there was ever a time for us to renew our faithfulness and our commitment to the local church; to our families and our community and to stir up our gifts – now is that time!

Paul found it necessary to challenge the attitudes that had developed in the people of the Philippian church – attitudes of selfishness; attitudes of pride; attitudes of contention; rebellion and apathy. These are the same attitudes that plague the church and our nation today!

These same attitudes steal the joy out of the church and hinders us from winning people to Christ and releasing the full power of our gifts so that we see a demonstration of signs, wonders and miracles.

Paul appeals to the spiritual maturity and the spiritual motives of the believers in the Philippian congregation. In essence he says in the first 4 verses that “Your disagreements reveal your attitudes of selfishness and pride…and because you are selfish and prideful – you have no joy in serving God.”

Then Paul shows them the attitude of an achiever in Christ…he reveals to them the attitude of one who is truly “in Christ.”

And I would challenge each of us today to adopt the same attitude that Paul outlines here – so that we can fulfill the mission and vision of the church that was given to us by the Lord…and so that you can reach and fulfill the vision of your family’s future!

I. The Mind of Christ is a Servant's Mind

Vs. 5 - 7 “But made himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant and coming in the likeness of men…”

Someone said it well – one of the biggest problems we face today is that we have got too many chiefs and not enough Indians. Everyone seems to know what to do and how it should be done – but not many are willing to become servants and get the job done!

Let me ask this question of you – “What jobs; what task; what assignments in your home, church or community, have you got too big for?”

If anybody could have opted out of serving because He was too big; too good; too important – it was Jesus…but He didn’t – look at what He did:

1. He emptied Himself, laying aside the independent use of His own Godly attributes

2.         He permanently became a human, in a sinless physical body
3.         He used that body to be a servant
4.         He took that body to the cross and willingly died for you and me

The attitude of Christ – the mind of Christ – the attitude of an achiever is that you and I have been created and call by God to serve one another!

II. The Mind of Christ is a Submissive or Humble Mind

Vs. 8 – “And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

The attitude of Christ…the attitude of an achiever will always be one of humble submission. We don’t actually understand the terminology and the meaning of the word “humble” or ‘humility.”

We think often that it means ‘weak’ or weakness or that, we become a push-over and that is just not the attitude we can stand. No one wants to be a push-over – especially in today’s aggressive, assertive and arrogant culture in which we live.

But it is important to understand that Biblical humility is demonstrated not by the person who has a victim mentality or one who has a low self-esteem attitude. It is not the person who thinks little of himself – it is the person who does not think of himself at all.

Humility is that grace and gift of God – that when you know you have it – you have lost it. The opposite of humility is pride and the Bible teaches that pride always comes before the destruction.

A person with a genuine humble attitude – is someone who knows himself; accepts himself; and then yields or submits himself to Jesus Christ to be a servant and who uses his or her gifts for the good of others and for the glory of God.

III. The Mind of Christ is a mind Sacrificial or Obedient Mind

Vs. 8 “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

The mind of Christ – the attitude of Jesus – the attitude of an achiever…is to learn obedience – even when that obedience calls for a sacrifice. One of the most interesting things I have observed over my 30 years plus of ministry is that many people are willing to serve others – IF it does not cost them anything. But when you tell them or show them that there is a price to pay…suddenly they lose interest.

Jesus, the Bible says…for your sake and for your sins – “became obedient unto death – even the death of the cross.” He made the ultimate sacrifice for you and for me.

The person with the attitude of an achiever…the mind of Christ – does not avoid sacrifices…but humbles himself…obeys and makes the sacrifice for the glory of God!

V. The Benefit and Blessing –

There benefit and blessing that is ours is that --- when we have the mind of Christ; the attitude of Christ and humble yourself, obey and serve others sacrificially --- God is faithful to do for us just as He did for Jesus!

Jesus humbled Himself, obeyed, served and sacrificed…but God highly exalted Him…and gave Him a Name that is above every name! God the Father lifted Jesus up for all to see what a servant is like!

Likewise, God will exalt you in due season and He will lift you up when you humble yourself…and obey Him; and serve Him; and sacrifice you self for Him.

Fathers' Day

2011-06-15T09:44:00.000-04:00

The Word of God teaches us to honor our father and mother. Taht is not too difficult when you have a father who is responsbile and a mother who is caring. However, what happens when you grow up without a father in your home? Although you might respect and honor your mother on one hand, the feelings you have toward your father might be quite different.

David Blankenhorn in his book, "Fatherless America: Confronting Our Most Urgent Social Problem," said, "Fatherlessness is the most destructive trend of our generation." This should come as no surprise to us. God said that many, many years ago as He spoke through the Prophet Malachi.

"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet befoe the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the earth with a cruse," Malachi 4:5-6.

The implication of these verses is, that from God's perspective, the fundamental problem with mankind is the fatherless problem. Fatherhood is the foundation from which the family is established. Fatherhood sets in motion the order which God instituted from the beginning of creation. Everything hinges on fatherhood, the results of which can have a positive or negative impact.

In my book, Father Force, Changing The World One Life At A Time, I share some helpful principles that I have learned along my journey, that I believe will help any father be a better father. Not that I have perfected the art of fatherhood...but I have learned how to face the struggles and acknowlege my failures and keep pursing the high call of The Father Force.

The Father Force

You Are of God

2011-05-11T10:05:00.000-04:00

Day Forty

In all your understanding of your new identity never forget that your identity is not based on your performance or behavior but on your birth. You are born of God and therefore you are His son or daughter. He has made you a new creature and He will complete that which He has begun in you. You are great…because the Great “I AM” lives in you and has made you after His image.

Memorize: Exodus 3:14; John 8:24; 28; 58; I Corinthians 15:10

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are Free In Christ

2011-05-10T10:45:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty - Nine

As a son or daughter of God you must recognize that you are no longer in bondage to anything or any one. No pain of the past, no hurt, no condition, no demonic spirit and no current set of circumstances can hold you in bondage unless you allow it. You have been and are a free man or woman of God…now live like it!

Memorize: John 8:31-36; Romans 6:7; 14; 22; Galatians 5:1; 2 Corinthians 3:17

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

You Are A Sower

2011-05-09T11:10:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Eight

As you come into the knowledge of your inheritance in Christ and begin to be the giver that God has called you to be…you will experience supernatural abundance in your life as never before. See yourself not simply as one who sows – but see yourself as a sower. For a sower depends totally on his return and God is faithful to give seed to the sower!

Memorize: 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Luke 6:38

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are Complete Lacking Nothing

2011-05-07T11:14:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Seven

I can recall growing up with eight other siblings. In our home, which was poor by any standard, we did not have many material things. However we did have that which money could not buy, love, unity, and joy! So although we might have lacked some creature comforts we did not lack anything. And as you come to rest in your identity in Christ you must understand the fact that you will never lack that which is essential for your well-being.

Memorize: Psalm 23:1; James 1:7; I Timothy 6:17

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are In Covenant With God

2011-05-06T10:00:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Six

One of the most powerful truths about your new identity that you will ever learn is that you are no longer identified with the law and the covenant of the law – but you are identified with the Covenant of Grace. That alone is reason to shout and sing praises to your Father.

Memorize: Hebrews 8:7-13; Ezekiel 36:16-38; Romans 6:14

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are A Royal Priesthood

2011-05-05T10:43:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Five

Have you ever traveled to another city in another part of the country or around the world and it seemed as though the people recognized that you were not from there and treated you like a second-class citizen? Well one thing that you will never have to worry about…because of your union with Christ, you will always be treated with dignity and honor by God and His holy angels who keep watch over you.

Memorize: Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Peter 2:9-10

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…

_________________________________________________________________

You Can Know The Will of The Father

2011-05-04T10:26:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Four

Never allow Satan to suggest to you that you do not or that you cannot understand the will of God. Your Father is not hiding His will from you and He has not made it so difficult that you cannot understand it and do it. He wants you to succeed and to fulfill your calling and destiny.

Memorize: 1 John 5:14-21

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

You Are Established and Anointed

2011-05-03T09:50:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Three

Wow – what great news, you have been established and anointed by God and therefore you are well able to accomplish great things for His glory. You see, the work has been done, in Christ, and all the promises of God are “yes and amen.” Now all you need to do is accept them and begin to live out your life by faith!

Memorize: 2 Corinthians 1:18 - 22

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?

Other thoughts along my journey…

_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

You Are A Minister

2011-05-02T10:44:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Two

Never tie your identity to a position, an office or a career. Those are areas of service that God places you in; they are your assignments. They are not your identity. Assignments can change but who you are in Christ will never change! You are a minister, a called out saint of God on assignment in the world to redeem lost mankind.

Memorize: I Peter 3:8-9; Ephesians 4:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are A Steward of the Mysteries of the Kingdom

2011-05-01T06:53:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty One

A good natural father desires his children to know what he has prepared for them; what he has set aside for their inheritance; what are the mysteries of life that they need to understand so that they are not taken captive by situations and circumstances that are dangerous and deadly. Even so, your Heavenly Father wants you to know the mysteries of the Kingdom and what He has planned and what He has in store for you.

Memorize: 1 Corinthians 2:6-12; Ephesians 3:8-19; Jeremiah 29:11

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Never Alone

2011-04-30T16:41:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty

I have met many single adults who are not effectively serving God because they feel that they are alone and loneliness has them in bondage. Likewise I know many married persons who although they have a life-mate, yet they feel so all alone. The key to dealing with loneliness is two fold, first love the person who you are alone with (you) and second realize that in all actuality you are never alone because Christ is in you and you are in Christ!

Memorize: John 16:32-33; Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5-6

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

You Are Uniquely Gifted

2011-04-29T10:32:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Nine

Many times we find ourselves comparing our gifts, talents and abilities to others and being both intimidated and envious of what they can do. However, be encouraged that your gifts and talents are as valuable and necessary to the fulfillment of God’s plan as anyone in history. You are so valuable that God says you are the apple of His eye.

Memorize: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9; 1 Corinthians 12

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Complete In Christ

2011-04-28T04:29:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Eight

The good news for you is that you cannot fail, because of your union with Christ everything that God has begun in you He will complete it and you will fulfill your divine destiny. The only question you must answer after you are saved is, “Am I going to enjoy the journey or struggle along the way and never have joy?”

Memorize: Philippians 1:6; Colossians 1:21-22; Jude 24

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

You Are Seated With Christ

2011-04-27T11:36:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Seven

One of the great weapons of Satan against your identity in Christ is his desire and goal to keep you ignorant of your position and your legal standing over him and his demonic forces. But you must accept the fact that you are who God says you are and not who or what your feelings or the circumstances say you are. You are saved and seated!

Memorize: Ephesians 2:4-9

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________

You Were Washed...

2011-04-26T13:02:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Six

The way you see yourself is the way you will behave and that behavior will become the habit and the inheritance of your life. If all you remember about yourself is that you were a sinner, a fornicator, an adulterer, a thief, a liar or a robber or busy body…then all you will do is continue to behave in those non-productive ways. But when you accept the fact that you have been washed clean and thus are able to behave in a new way, you will create a new godly environment everywhere you go.

Memorize: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 2 Peter 1:5-9

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

You Are In Christ and Christ Is In You

2011-04-25T11:57:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Five

If Satan can intimidate you and cause you to fear him, fear failure, fear success and fear the future you will always be in bondage to low self-esteem and negative thinking. God through your union with Christ has given you love, power and a sound mind so that you can resist fear and reject low self-esteem and negative thinking.

Memorize: 1 Timothy 1:6-7; Ephesians 3:20

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Kings and Priest Unto God

2011-04-25T11:50:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Four

In Christ your identity continues to go from glory to glory and God continues to see you not as you are but as Jesus is. Therefore since Jesus Christ is seen by the Father as the King of kings…you are the kings that Jesus is King over. Think about it – you are a king and priest in the sight of God!.

Memorize: Revelation 1:4-6; I John4:17

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Healed

2011-04-25T11:43:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Three

Sickness and disease enter the world as a result of the curse that God placed on the earth when Adam sinned. Since that time sickness and disease has been used as a tool of Satan to distract people away from the loving grace and kindness of God and to immobilize the people of God. But Jesus Christ paid the full price for our sins, including the price for our deliverance from sickness and disease.

Memorize: Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24: Matthew 8:16-17

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Dead To Sin and Alive To Christ

2011-04-22T10:26:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Two

I have come to understand that a dead person cannot be enticed by the things that once ensnared them. When one dies they are no longer subject to the temptations and trials that may have defeated them while they were alive. In Christ, the Bible says that you are dead to sin and alive to Christ and His righteousness. Therefore sin has no more dominion over you – but you have power over sin.

Memorize: Romans 6:7-12; Galatians 2:19-20

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are The Image of Christ

2011-04-21T10:48:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty One

In our natural world it is very common for a child to resemble his or her parents. We don’t think anything of it, as a matter of fact, we expect a child to resemble, imitate and have the same general characteristics of his or her parents. When you were born – again, your Father became the Almighty Creator, God of the universe and as such you are to resemble, imitate and adopt the same characteristics as God. To help us, God sent Jesus Christ in the form of a man, so that we could see His glory, His ways and His actions.

Memorize: I John 3:1; Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

You Are Justified

2011-04-20T13:38:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty

When a guilty prisoner is given a pardon, he is able to leave prison and not serve the balance of his sentence. God not only pardons you and me, but He also justified you which means that He not only forgave your sins, but that He also removed any record of you even committing any sin and thus He justified you.

Memorize: Romans 5:16; Romans 8:30; Galatians 2:16

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

You Are A Kingdom Citizen

2011-04-19T01:15:00.000-04:00

Day Nineteen

A citizen of a nation has greater benefits and legal rights than one who is an alien or a stranger to that nation. The citizen has legal position, status and rights that allow him to make certain demands upon the government that has to be granted him because of his position as a citizen and his status as a legal resident of the kingdom or nation.

Memorize: Ephesians 2:11-13; 1 Peter 2:11; Philippians 3:20

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are An Ambassador of Christ

2011-04-19T01:07:00.000-04:00

Day Eighteen

In politics and world affairs governments often send ambassadors to represent them in official business with one another. These ambassadors, who are often called ministers, in many nations, are very important persons because at their word all the power and military might of the nation can be deployed. As representatives and ministers they advance the cause of their nation and speak for and on behalf of the leader of their nation.

Memorize: 2 Corinthians 5:18 – 20

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are Of God

2011-04-19T01:00:00.000-04:00

Day Seventeen

Your sinful nature and identity were dominated by sin and Satan. However your new nature and new identity is of God and you have become a partaker of God’s divine nature and you have His anointing in your life forever.

Memorize: 1 John 4:4-5; I John 2:20; 2:27; 2 Peter 1:1-4

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

You Are The Temple of The Holy Spirit

2011-04-16T18:08:00.000-04:00

Day Sixteen

In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit would come upon a man or woman of God, anoint them with supernatural power and ability to fulfill their calling and would often depart from them for a season. But since Jesus has ascended into the Throne Room and sat down at the right hand of the Father, the Father has sent the Holy Spirit to be your helper, your teacher, your guide and your leader. You don’t have to worry about the Holy Spirit leaving you for you are sealed with the Holy Spirit.

Memorize: Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Corinthians 1:22; John 14:15-18

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

You Are Adopted Into God's Family

2011-04-16T18:02:00.000-04:00

Day Fifteen

In ancient times the meaning of the word adoption meant that a son or daughter was announced publicly as one who was “full grown” and thus one who was entitled to all the blessings and privileges afforded a child of the one who adopted them. God declares that you are his full-grown sons and daughters therefore you are given full right and privilege to all that is His.

Memorize: Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:4-5

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

You Are The Temple of God

2011-04-14T08:36:00.000-04:00

Day Fourteen

God no longer dwells in buildings made with hands. As grand and as lovely as the Temple of Jerusalem may have been and as elegant and splendid as many of today’s houses of worship are…they do not compare to the glory of the real Temple of God, which Temple you are.

Memorize: 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are An Heir of God

2011-04-13T10:31:00.000-04:00

Day Thirteen

It is not the will of God for His sons and daughters to remain stuck in the bondage of poverty, lack and indebtedness. God is the all sufficient supplier of every good and perfect gift and it is His good pleasure to prosper you and cause you to have an abundance, for every good work.

Memorize: Romans 8:16-17; 8:32; Galatians 4:6-7; 2 Corinthians 9:8

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

You Are The Light Of The World

2011-04-12T08:53:00.000-04:00

Day Twelve

Although the world around you is in darkness and confusion, you have been delivered from the kingdom of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God’s dear Son. Therefore confess that you are not in darkness but rather that you are the light of the world and that you walk in the light of God. .

Memorize: Matthew 5:14; Philippians 2:12-15; Ephesians 5:8; I Thessalonians 5:5

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

The Value and Beauty of The Real You

2011-04-11T09:45:00.000-04:00

Day Eleven

We live in a vain and sometimes self-absorbed society where many people spend great amounts of money on their outward appearance. As a Christian it is important for you to recognize that your identity is not limited to outward beauty but rather you are beautiful inwardly as you reflect the character of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit.

Memorize: Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Stand

2011-04-09T12:33:00.000-04:00

Day Ten

Sometimes you might feel like Satan and the systems of this world have gotten the best of you. Perhaps you have experienced a series of circumstances that just seem to take the life out of you and you are at the point of giving up. Remember who you are! You are strong and not weak; you have the power and the authority to put your enemies on the run and to stand and having endured all, still stand.

Memorize: Philippians 4:13; 2 Corinthians 12:10; Luke 10:19

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Guard Your Mind

2011-04-09T12:27:00.000-04:00

Day Nine

It is so vital that you guard your mind; for Satan will seek to confuse you and cause you to think like the old you, rather than like the new you. It was an amazing discovery for me to know that I have the same mind in me that Christ has in Him and that I can never “go crazy” or "lose my mind," because my mind is stayed or fixed on Jesus Christ. I have the mind of Christ according to the Word of God. As you daily renew your mind with the mind of Christ (The Word of God)...you also renew your assurance of victory.

Memorize: 1 Corinthians 2:12-16; Philippians 2:5; 4:6-8; Colossians 3:2; Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:23; 2 Timothy 1:7

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Sinner or Saint???

2011-04-08T09:59:00.000-04:00

Day Eight

Often we are quick to speak words that are contrary to who we are when asked to identify ourselves. It is important that you stop identifying yourself by your old nature and begin identifying yourself by your new nature which is created in Christ Jesus, in righteousness and true holiness. This means that you should not call yourself a “sinner” but rather a “saint.” You were born a “sinner” but you were born-again as a “saint,” a “holy, beloved one of God.”

Memorize: Ephesians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philemon 1:1; Colossians 1:2; 3:12; 1 Peter 2:9-10

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Accepted In The Beloved

2011-04-07T08:54:00.000-04:00

Day Seven

Have you ever felt rejected and you felt that your identity was tied to the person or persons who rejected you? Have you ever thought that you were incomplete and lack the necessary personality, skills or intelligence to be accepted by others? The truth is that because you are in Christ and because Christ is in you…you are never going to be rejected, you are complete and you lack nothing. You are of imminent worth and value as God’s prize possession.

Memorize: John 6:37; John 15:16: Ephesians 1:4-6; Colossians 2:9-10;

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Failure Is Never Final

2011-04-06T07:22:00.000-04:00

Day Six

When we fail or fall; when we make a mistake or when we sin…sometimes we feel like a failure. We all experience some setbacks and some defeats in our lives, however those are only skirmishes; they are not the final battle. You are never a failure until you accept failure as final. Failure is merely a temporary pause in your journey to victory.

Memorize: 2 Corinthians 2:14; Romans 8:28; 8:37-39

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You Are Free Indeed

2011-04-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

Day Five

When the slaves in America were set free, it took months before the official word got through to all the states. As a result many of those who were free men and women continued to live under their old identity because they had not gotten the message that they now had a new identity. If you don’t know who you are, other people will define you and you will live your life limited to their definition of you.

Memorize: Galatians 3:26 – 29; 4:6-7

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

You Are Forgiven

2011-04-04T08:10:00.000-04:00

Day Four

God wants you to know that you are forgiven not because of anything that you have done – but because of the price that Jesus Christ paid on the Cross of Calvary. Forgiveness of sin (the nature) and forgiveness of sins (your particular thoughts, words and actions) was and is determined by the blood sacrifice that Jesus made for you.

Memorize: Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14; 2:13-14

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

There Is No Condemnation To Those In Christ Jesus

2011-04-03T21:15:00.000-04:00

Day Three

Satan is the accuser of the saints and he will seek to dominate your mind with thoughts of guilt, shame and blame. However when you know who you are and what you have according to your relationship with Christ, then you will not fall into the trap of low self-esteem or self-condemnation. Remember you are not condemned with the world, you are redeemed in Christ.

Memorize: John 3:17 – 18; Romans 8:1; 8:33-34

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

You Are The Righteousness of God In Christ Jesus

2011-04-03T21:10:00.000-04:00

Day Two

As long as you remain focused on your sinfulness you will continue to be dominated by the lure and temptation of sin. Whatever dominates your thoughts is eventually what you will pursue and become. Therefore it is vital that you understand and confess your righteous identity that you have in Christ.

Memorize: 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:17; Romans 10:10; Philippians 3:9

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along my journey…
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Journey To Your Real Identity

2011-04-01T10:34:00.000-04:00

Day One

One of the most critical points of understanding identity for you will be your acceptance of the truth that God is not angry with you and that you and God are at peace. The Scriptures teach that you are God’s friend through Jesus Christ and because of that relationship you have peace with God and that you have the peace of God.
Memorize: John 15:15; Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:6 & 7

Who Are You and What Do You Have According to these Scriptures? _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

What Promises Can You Rightfully Claim According to these Scriptures? __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

What Actions Will You Take As A Result of Your New Identity?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

Other thoughts along your journey…
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

2011-03-29T12:35:00.000-04:00

IDENTITY DETERMINES WORTH

Have you ever asked the question, “Who am I?” “Where am I going?” Have you ever felt as though your life had no meaning, no value or no purpose?

Jesus Christ came to us life and that more abundantly. If we are to experience the life God plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11) we must have an accurate answer to these questions.

God created you fearfully (with awe) and wonderfully (with majesty) and God ordained that you and I should do several things as His representatives on earth:
1. Be fruitful [Productive]
2. Multiply [Increase in everything]
3. Have Dominion [Take the lead and rule over]

It is only as we are fulfilling that first work that God has ordained for us that we can ever experience the fullness of life and our living have meaning and worth.

The challenge we face is that most of our lives we have been told and conditioned to believe that we cannot accomplish what God has called us to because we had lost our identification with God when Adam sinned.
That fact is true, we did lose our identification with God when Adam sinned…however, our identity, our calling, our position, our authority, our power and our legal right to rule over the earth was reestablished at the Cross of Calvary.

Now, through study of the Word of God, through prayer and meditation you can reestablish your true identity and purpose and thereby experience God’s wonderful gift of life more abundantly. Do you know what you are worth? You are worth the life of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of the Most High God!

DISCOVER YOUR TRUE IDENTITY

What you perceive as truth will greatly influence your feelings, your beliefs and your actions. Satan has sought and to a great degree succeeded at having Christians perceive as truth, his lies. As a result when it comes to our true identity, most Christians perceive themselves through the identity placed on them by Adam – rather than the redeemed identity given to them by Jesus Christ.

Someone once said that it takes about three weeks to form a new habit. Over the next 40 days beginning April 01st we will seek to form the new habit of seeing ourselves as God sees us and perceiving our worth from God’s perspective rather than from that of Satan or traditional thinking or what other people have defined as our identity.

Always remember that your birth, not your performance, determines your identity.

There are six practical and simple steps that I suggest that you take each day as you are praying and meditating on the Word of God. For each of the verses that I share with you, take the following steps to RECALL your true identity in Christ and in the sight of God:
R - Read and Remember the Scriptures
E - Express the promise and identity to yourself
C - Confess your identity to someone else
A - Apply action and begin acting like your identity in Christ
L - Let it sink in by meditating on your identity
L - Love God and yourself and your neighbor will benefit

As you are going through your life changing identity formation you will experience wonderful new breakthroughs, write me at pmdavis@nationsford.org and let me know what God is doing in your life.

FAITH- TAKE THE PLUNGE

2011-03-04T12:20:00.000-05:00

I have always admired the person who is willing to be the first! Whatever the challenge maybe, even when all the data is not gathered and the outcome is not guaranteed…there is usually someone in the crowd who is willing to take the first plunge.

The most interesting thing about this type of person is that once they have taken the plunge, they will turn and encourage others to join them in the adventure. Faith is willing to be the first to take the plunge. People of faith are always early adopters of God's plan.

Genesis 6 tells the story of Noah, who is one of the great examples of this kind of faith. Noah was willing to build a boat when there was not one drop of water in sight. His encounter with God is a story that provides a lesson in faith for every believer.

1. Faith Believes Without Proof

Noah built the ark without ever seeing rain. Think about it, it had never rained on the earth…but God said to Noah, “Build an ark, because I am going to make it rain.” When we live by faith we must learn that most of our faith-facts are not within our line of sight. That begins with our belief in God. We don't need to see Him to know that He is real. Peter reminds us that “though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,” (1 Pet. 1:8).

Faith is, believing without proof, whether it is faith in God's promises to us; faith in His eternal plan for the world, or faith in His specific plan for our lives. We trust God, even though we cannot see all the details.

2. Faith Stands Alone

Noah and his family were the only people in their community (in the world at that time) who feared God. Yet we notice that Noah would not be intimidated. Noah stuck with God’s plan even when he had to do it all alone.

People of faith don't need to be members of an elite club; they are willing to hold fast to the promises of God even when that means being different from others. To stand against the crowd and for Jesus requires a firm conviction of the truth of God's Word. Noah's experiences drives home another point worth pondering: the crowd is often wrong.

3. Faith Takes Action

James wrote, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead,” (James 2:17). Noah not only believed God and the promise of God that, it would rain but also did something about it…he built a boat.

What is the action to which God is calling you? Will you step out in faith and just do it? Will you take the plunge and dive into your destiny by faith?

4. Faith Sees Results

Being a person of faith means being willing to trust God regardless of the outcome. Noah was a man of faith.

The promises of God are true, and those who trust in them; rely on them and take the plunge of faith - are never disappointed. God promised Noah that it would rain, and did it ever! Having acted in faith, Noah and his family were saved from the flood. They believed that it would happen, and they saw it come to pass.

When you step out and take the plunge of faith and follow God, you will see results in your life also! Now while it will not be as dramatic as Noah's flood (God has promised that there will be no repeat performance of that event), but when you take the plunge of faith and trust in the promises of God and act according to His plan and His Word, the results will be no less meaningful in your life!

So when you pray for rain, you better be wearing a raincoat or go get an umbrella; because all of God's promises are true. Take the plunge and walk by faith, not by sight.

PMD

THE IF ONLY'S

2011-02-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

The Bible speaks of you and me becoming New Creations and being born again. This speaks of the real man within us, the real you…the part of you that is created in true holiness. 1 Peter 3:4 calls it, “the hidden man of the heart.”

Well this new you in you…must make the adjustment from being driven by the world and its pressures to being led by the Spirit of Christ in you. This will require a new way of thinking. The Bible says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”

Today…is the day to begin adjusting your thinking and aligning your thoughts, your words and ultimately your actions with what God has said about you in His word.

Today…is the day to begin the transformation of your thinking; to move from fear and failure thinking to success thinking; and from mediocrity to greatness. Today is the day to begin thinking God’s way and thus experiencing good success, Joshua 1:7 – 9.

Today you can begin by eliminating the “if only’s” from your thinking and from your talking. You know those thoughts that come to your mind when you determine to step out and doing something that will better your life and bless others. The thoughts of “I would if only…I had more education. I could if only…I did not so many other responsibilities; or if only I was not tied to this mortgage; or if only the economy was not in a slump; or if only people treated me better or understood me more; or if only God would show me a sign, etc.

Here are some practical steps to take to break free of the “if only’s” and begin releasing the greatness that is the you in you.

1. Eliminate “If Only” from your vocabulary.
2. Confront life as it is…but never settle for life as it is.
3. Acknowledge the fact that YOU not others hold the power to do something about YOUR life.
4. Act on your dreams now and do not wait for the perfect conditions.
5. Never forget the fact that God is with you.

Write me...I'll be happy to pray for you and encourage you to bring out the great you in you!

PMD

The Power of Choice

2011-01-10T12:55:00.000-05:00

For each of us, change always begins with choice. It is the power of choice that the creator has given to us that is the most power gift we have ever received. Any day, any moment we desire we can discipline ourselves to change our lives, simply by making a choice.

In Deuteronomy 30, the Lord through Moses tells His people that they have a choice between life and what is good or death and what is evil. In the Book of Joshua 24:15, the people are once again confronted with the power of choice and commanded to choose whom they will serve.

Throughout the Scriptures we are all confronted to exercise the one power that God has given to us and will never take from us, the power of choice. Today, right now or any time we desire we can change our lives. We can choose to open the Bible and read it…a book that will change our lives forever. We can choose to open our mind to new knowledge.

Any day we desire, we can start a new activity; we can start the process of life change and we can do it now or next week or next month or next year – the choice is ours to make.

However we can also choose to do nothing…but stay the same! We can choose to pretend rather than perform. Many people fear the thought of changing themselves; it causes them to procrastinate and remain the same.

We can choose rest over labor, entertainment over education, lies over truth and fear and doubt over confidence and courage. The choices you make are yours because God has given you the power of choice.

The hard reality is that we created our circumstances by our past choices. We have both the ability and the responsibility to make better choices beginning today. If you don’t like how things are in your life – change it!

You have the power to totally transform every area of your life. It’s called the power of choice! Don’t allow past failures or errors in judgment, to hold you back. Remember the basic things of life; love, kindness, courtesy, family, friends, and faith – and choose to make those the priority of your life.

Don't make excuses for why you are the way you are - release the power of choice and change your life today!

Finish Well

2010-12-17T07:57:00.000-05:00

“How To Finish Well”

Early in my life - there were times …when I just did not like myself! Listen…here is why, because early in my life, I was a quitter…I seldom finished the things I started and I made excuses for giving up!

But many years ago I came across two sayings that I have never let go of. Two sayings, that have radically impacted my life. Over the years they have kept my mind; my soul; and my body running when there seemed to be nothing but fumes in the tank!

These two sayings are simple yet – they have kept me hoping for the best, even after hope had gone on vacation! These two sayings have compelled me to get up and get off the ground when getting up was the last thing on my mind.

Here are the two sayings…not deep; not mystical or metaphysical…but practical and common sense:
“Winners never quit – and quitters never win.”
“Many have a good beginning. Few have a good ending.”

Did you catch it? “Many have a good beginning. Few have a good ending.”

This is simple common sense wisdom...that says “When all is said and done, it is not how good you look in the starting blocks. Instead, the deciding factor is whether you make it across the finish line.”

It is tragic when people start out well, but they do not finish well. It is unfortunate, indeed…that “Many have a good beginning. Few have a good ending.”

As important as it is to start the race, what ultimately counts is that we finish the race. Very few ribbons, medals, trophies or advertising contracts are given to athletes with good starts.

You win…in your calling…in your God-given assignment; in your vision; in your marriage; in business and elsewhere in life – not because you show up and get started – but because you are a good finisher.

My hope and my prayer is that in every area of your life – you become a good finisher…that you will finish well.

But this is not just my desire. This is also the desire of your heavenly Father…who uses the writer of the book of Hebrews to express His will for us to finish well!

In Hebrews 12:1-2, the author senses that this congregation of Jewish believers who are undergoing pressure and circumstances beyond their control - is on the verge of abandoning their calling; their commitment and their spiritual heritage. He writes to people who have started the race, but he is not sure that they are going to finish the race. Thus, in the 12th chapter, he persuades his listeners to finish what they had started.

In these two short verses, he gives four sound pieces of advice concerning how to finish well…the race that is set before us!

If we want to finish well:
1) Remember who is around us.
2) Remove what is on us.
3) Rely on what is in us, and
4) Realize who is before us.

Allow me to explore these tips on finishing well.

1. In Hebrews 12:1a - The writer exhorts us to remember who is around us. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses.” Hebrews 11 lists the names of some of those who surround us. Hebrews 11 provides a catalog of people who have demonstrated overcoming faith—faith that survived in the crucible of existence; faith that flourished under fire; faith that knew how to hold on and hold out.

Hebrews 11 calls to mind such notables as Abel, Noah, Abraham, and Rahab. These inductees into “Faith’s Hall of Fame” now occupy the seats in the coliseum, which surrounds the track on which you and I are currently running the race of life.

The author of Hebrews says to all current runners – that is to you and me and every believer in Christ today - “In order to finish the race, remember a great cloud of witnesses surrounds you.” There are persons in the coliseum seats who are invisible to the naked eye, but visible to the spiritual eye. Those who surround us are witnesses, not just spectators. There is a profound difference between a spectator and a witness.

A spectator is someone who watches you go through something...but either cannot or does not do anything about what you are going through…they just watch you go through!

A witness, in the Biblical sense, is someone who has gone through what you are going through – and thus can encourage you – to finish – because they know that if they got through – you can too!

We can finish well - the race because in the stands we have some witnesses, not spectators—witnesses who themselves have dashed through danger and dilemma and lived to tell about it.

Witnesses are those who have been through trials and turmoil and have found out that the Lord will make a way somehow. We can finish well - the race; we can hold on; we can resist the temptation to quit; to give up and give in…if we remember who is around us cheering for us.

As we run, the witnesses listed in Hebrews 11 exhort us, but these are not the only witnesses. There are other heroes and heroines of holiness who have walked the earth since Hebrews was written. There are great-grandfathers and great-grandmothers; there are the sainted “deacons” and “mothers” of the Church of old…who prayed for us and taught us and if it had not been for their sacrifices…we would not have a race to run!

These and many other witnesses are rooting for you and me. And sometimes all it takes, is for you to silence the noise of your world – especially during this season of the year…get alone with God and His Word…and you may hear the witnesses in the stands cheering for you.

Check back next week...for part 2 as we finish strong in 2010!

2010-11-22T10:07:00.000-05:00

We have a great to be thankful for in this nation and certainly if there is anything more important than being thankful for family and the church, I can’t think of it.

The Bible says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

It is God’s will for you and I to give Him thanks both in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and for everything (Ephesians 5:20). Here is why…we thank God in everything because we know that He will never leave us nor forsake us and that in the time of trouble He is a very present help.

We can thank God for everything because ultimately He allows nothing into our lives without it being filtered through His love for us…and therefore it is designed to eventually make us better and more like Jesus. "For we know that all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, to them who are the called according to His purpose," Romans 8:28.

THERE ARE NO SHORT CUTS TO OCCUPY YOUR DESTINY

2010-10-29T12:52:00.000-04:00

Lazy hands make a man poor; but diligent hands bring wealth.
Proverbs 10:04 NIV

God has prepared a great future of peace, joy, abundance and healthy relationships for each of us. The only thing that can prevent you from living and enjoying that future, which includes having the career; the business; and the kind of home and reltionships that you envision, is your willingness to occupy it!

To occupy (take possession of), the future that God has prepared for you, it is incumbent upon you to recognize that there are no shortcuts. It will take work; effort; as well as, bold, determined faith actions.

The Scripture says “Lazy hands make a man poor; but diligent hands bring wealth.” While this Scripture is specifically speaking of material wealth…it is a principle that applies in general, to every area of our lives.
· If you want to receive the best that God has prepared for you in your relationships – you have got to work at it.
· If you want to receive the best that God has prepared for you in your health – you have got to work at it.
· If you want to receive the best that God has prepared for you in your finances – you have got to work at it.

There are no shortcuts to your Promise Land…to occupy your blessing and live the abundant life that Jesus died for you to have…you have got to work at it.

Proverbs 13:04 reads, “The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”

Remember God knows the intentions of your heart…however He blesses the labor of your hands.

There are no shortcuts to occupy your destiny; you have got to work for it!

THE POWER OF INFLUENCE

2010-10-18T18:15:00.000-04:00

The wisdom of Proverbs 13:20 says, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.”

When we consider and evaluate the major influences in our life that have helped to shape the kind of person we are, we must admit that peer pressure, people influence has to rank high on the list. The people we choose to allow into our lives will have a powerful influence either positively or negatively.

Now we are not talking about the casual or occasional contact or encounter we may have with others. But those relationships that we choose to let influence us on a more intimate and personal basis are very important. Even those associations of a business and professional nature, will influence our lives significantly. We should never underestimate the power of influence.

The influence of those around us is so powerful, until many times we don’t realize how much we are being affected because influences generally develop over a period of time!

We often associate peer pressure with teenagers, however it is a powerful force in the lives of everyone including adults…because it is so subtle. If you are around people who talk negative, chances are that you will talk negative. If you are around people who spend all the money they make, chances are that you also will spend all the money you make. If you are around people who go to night clubs more than they go to church, chances are that you will do the same thing. If you are around people who do not read, chances are that you won't read.

People can in subtle ways keep nudging us off our desired course of life, a little at a time until, finally, one day we ask ourselves, "How did I get here?" We must take time periodically to examine; study and evaluate the influences we allow in our lives, if we really want our lives to turn out the way we've planned.

Consider the following questions which may help you to evaluate your current influencers or associations:

1. “Who am I around?”
Make a mental note of the people with whom you most often associate. This is important because you have to evaluate everybody who is able to influence you in any way.

2. “What are these influencers doing to me?”
This is a critical question to ask. What have they got me doing? What have they got me listening to? What have they got me reading? Where have they got me going? What do they have me thinking? How have they got me talking? How have they got me feeling? What have they got me saying?

You've got to make a serious evaluation of how others are influencing you, both negatively and positively.

3. “Is this in line with my life’s purpose?”
“Is that okay?” Maybe everyone you associate with has been a positive, energizing contributing influence. Then again, maybe there are some who have been a drain; some who have been takers; some who have been manipulators; some who have been negative influences.

The point is that you take a close and objective look. Everything is worth a second look, especially the power of influence. Both will take you somewhere, but only one will take you in the direction you need to go.

It's easy to just dismiss the things that influence our lives. One man says, "I live here, but I don't think it matters. I'm around these people, but I don't think it hurts." Well I would suggest that you take another look at that...because everything matters!

Yes, some things matter more than others, however everything amounts to something and you and I are being influenced one way or another. It is vital that we are continuously evaluating and examining to find out whether our associations are tipping the scales toward the positive or toward the negative. When it comes to who and what is influencing our lives, ignorance is not the best policy. Finding out is the best policy.

Jim Rohm tells the story of the little bird, who had his wing over his eye and he was crying.

The owl said to the bird, "You are crying."

"Yes," said the little bird, and he pulled his wing away from his eye.

"Oh, I see," said the owl. "You're crying because the big bird pecked out your eye."

And the little bird said, "No, I'm not crying because the big bird pecked out my eye. I'm crying because I let him."

It's easy for us to simply let influences shape our lives, to let associations determine our direction, to let pressures overwhelm us, and to let the wind and the tides take us where they are going.

The bigger questions are: Are we letting ourselves become what we wish to become? Are we influencing others toward a higher place or are we being influenced to remain in place?

If Only

2010-10-02T11:25:00.000-04:00

I’ve discovered that most people only dream of what they could do…IF ONLY! If only they had a better job; if only the teacher was not always picking on them; if only they were taller; if only they had more money; if only they were born in a diffent races or different place or at a different time; if only they were not neglected or abused or rejected or if only they had a perfect family life.

The Bible says that “You are without excuse O Man…” Here’s the reason we have no excuse, the Bible says that “God has given us everything that pertains to life…”

In other words, while all of our life's challenges, set-backs and disappointments are real. They are no excuse for us to remain in the situation we are in. Our past does not dictate our future. Life is not about where you start; nor where you are at present...its all about what you do to move toward the great destiny that God has prepared for you!

We have to learn to play the hand you have been dealt! We have to learn to turn the lemons of our life into lemon-aid! So pursue your dream and remember that for every "no"…it simply means that you are getting closer to your "yes." And all it takes to turn your situation around is one "yes!"

Why not begin now to change your thinking and begin by:

1. Dropping the “IF ONLY” talk… Stop waiting for things to get better, before you make them better. Give up the excuse of “if only.” “If only I had this; or if only I had that.”

2. FACE life as it is…But don’t ACCEPT it as it is… remember that you were created to make a difference in the world. You have greatness dwelling within you and the world needs your contribution in order for it to be a better place.

3. Recognize that YOU HOLD the power to do something with your life, regardless of the economy, your upbringing, your past mistakes. God has given you SEED to plant (your words, your choices, your money, your talent, your abilities. etc.). If all you have is a nice smile…that’s your seed—use it.

4. Don’t wait for the perfect conditions. Don’t wait for a better day…or the right teacher; the right principle; the right time of day; the right time for the stock market, or real estate market or the media or things to get better…before you do what you know to do. Make your life better by thinking the right thoughts…and sowing the right seeds.

5. Don’t Forget Your God-Given Benefits… Instead of focusing on what you don’t have…focus on the good that you already have; focus on what God HAS already done…focus on your Benefits as Believers…

Read Psalms 103:1 – 5 today…and watch your strength be renewed.

The Best Way To De-Stress Your Life

2010-09-17T14:48:00.000-04:00

Besides learning to love others as you love yourself…the greatest thing you will ever learn is to forgive! When we hold resentment; bitterness; hatred; anger or revenge; we are bound to that person or that situation or condition, by an emotional tie that is stronger than steel.

The Bible teaches us that we are “Forgive one another even as God in Christ has forgiven us.”

Forgiving is not forgetting – forgiving is a willful choice we make, not to respond negatively to the pain that may have been inflicted upon us. Forgive those who have caused you emotional distress, mental pain or wronged you in any way. Here is the reason why, because as long as you hold on to past hurts – you give that person or that circumstance total control of your life! You make yourself a prisoner of your past; you cage your in and lock out opportunities and you become a victim in your very own mind, carrying around a ton of stress that weighs you down.

Today is your day to de-stress your life and get truly free…by forgiving and moving on! This may be the hardest thing you will ever do - but it will the best thing you have ever done and it will bless you; it will release you; it will de-stress you and it will refresh you.

It is the BEST way for you to bring peace and lasting change to your life!

Your Rights - Your Privileges

2010-09-08T10:21:00.000-04:00

Many Christians are living so far beneath the place of victory and freedom; power and authority; prosperity and abundance that has been given to us as our inheritance.

If we are ever going to be the witnesses and image of Christ in the earth and have the kind of impact that the early Church had, it is essential that we understand and apply our rights and privileges as believers.

In Christ, you are given everything you need to live a godly life; the abundant life; and a life of faith and faithfulness to God. Don't allow Satan to decieve you any longer and render your witness ineffective.

Learn what you have a right to as a believer; what are the privileges granted to you; what is your spiritual inheritance and how to claim what is rightfully yours!

Each Wendesday at 07:00pm...join me for this life changing teaching series that will move you closer to your divine destiny.

THE HIDDEN MAN OF THE HEART

2010-08-21T19:29:00.000-04:00

There is a You in you. It is called the hidden man of the heart. It is the invisible you that motivates, encourages, enables and empowers the visible you to succeed.

The Bible says that "God is at work in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure." "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it." In other words, there is more working in you and for you than there is outside you and against you.

So look within and see the unseen you that is within you. Look within and see the greater one who is in you; see the strong, powerful, one created in the image and likeness of God.

Rise up You...there is a world waiting for you to release the potential and reach for the prize. Humanity awaits you to fulfill the place in history that is reserved just for you.

Put Your Behind In The Past

2010-08-12T18:28:00.000-04:00

The Apostle Paul said, "This one thing I do...forgetting those things which are behind, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high (upward) calling in Christ Jesus." Paul had a determination to stay focused on where he was going rather than being fixated on where he had been.

One of the greatest challenges we face in our lives, is the challenge of backwards living. We live with an eye toward our past rather than all our energy being focused on our future. This trick is one of the most effective deceptive devices that Satan has. When he has you looking back toward the Egypt that God has brought you out of, rather than being focused on the Promised Land you are to occupy and possess; then you miss the benefits and blessings that God has prepared for you.

I like what Pumbaa told Simba, in the Lion King. He told the young cub, "You've got to put your behind in your past." Friend, God wants you to walk in and live a daily life of victory, but in order to do so, you will need to make a decision to put some things behind you.

1. Put past hurts behind you. No matter whether you were the victim or the perpetrator it hurts. But put it under the blood of Jesus and move forward.

2. Put past defeats behind you. You can never be defeated or fail, until you stop trying. Today represents a new opportunity for you to win.

3. Put past victories behind you. When you stay focused too long on your past victory, you become vulnerable to a sneak attack from the enemy. Rejoice for a while but move forward.

4. Put past places behind you. When God brought the Hebrew people out of Egypt, even though they wanted to go back, they could not. God is never back there...Jesus is always saying to you "Come unto Me..."

If you keep looking back, you will not be able to see the road ahead and sooner or later, you will end up in a ditch. So don't look back, put your behind in the past.

Questions For Christians Who Are African-American

2010-08-05T04:03:00.000-04:00

Okay, I admit it, I simply cannot hold it in any longer. I have to raise the questions about two major social and cultural issues of our day.

1. As a Christian, who is also African-American, what are your real gut thoughts and feelings about the issue of immigration?

2. As a Christian, who is also African-American, what are your real gut thoughts and feelings about the issue of same-sex marriage?

Come on...talk to me!

The Attitude of The Ant

2010-07-25T00:36:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 6:06 – 08 gives us a glimpse at the type of attitude that makes for success. It is not simply an individual attitude but it is a corporate culture, a collective attitude that allows one of God’s tiniest creatures to survive and even thrive regardless of the external conditions they face.

The writer says, “Go to the ant and consider, ponder, study, and meditate on her ways and be wise, that is become excellent in following suit.”

As I considered the attitude of the ant, there were four unique things that I drew from my consideration of the ant.

1. Ants have an attitude of perseverance that will not allow them to quit!
Have you ever noticed that if ants are traveling or going somewhere and you try to stop them, that they will simply climb over you; climb under; go around you; or find another way to get to where they are going? What a great attitude for any individual; any family; or any organization. When you know where you are headed…and your way gets blocked, look for alternative ways to get there but do not quit!

2. Ants have a proper attitude toward personal responsibility.
Each ant does its part and never complains about it not being his/her job. They have no need of a supervisor; a manager; a boss; or a leader. Each ant takes turns leading by example and doing carrying its fair share of the load. Every organization can reach its maximum potential when every person takes personal responsibility to carry their share of the load and then some!

3. Ants have a proper attitude toward work.
Ants think winter all summer and summer all winter. They are not so naïve or short sighted as to think that the beautiful days of summer will last always or the cold famine of winter will always be their lot. Therefore the ant works hard during the summer because they know that winter is on the way. While hibernating during the winter, ants think, “this won’t last forever, soon summer will be here and we will be back to work.” Ants have an attitude that is work is fun and they enjoy what they do. When you enjoy your work – you work for fun.

4. Ants have a proper attitude toward possessions.
Have ever noticed that the ant gathers as much provisions as possible? They will team up to carry the load just so that they can have as much as possible. The attitude of doing and getting as much as possible, while you can is vital to the success of the ant. This same attitude is vital to your success…during the time that you have; do the best you can; for as long as you can; and gather all that you can. Get all the knowledge that you can; all the friends that you can; get all the land that you can; give all the service that you can; help as many people as you can.

Consider the Attitude of the Ant!

Be A Friend

2010-07-17T15:53:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 18:24 it says, “A man who has friends must first show himself friendly; but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Friendship is important to all of us…because all of us need a friend at some point in our lives. However to have a friend you must first be a friend. God will not reward you or I for the number of friends we had in our lives. He will reward us according to the number of people we were a friend to in life.

To be a friend means that in a world filled with phonies - you are honest and real; in a life where people are shallow – you are committed; when faced with decisions and choices that could hurt – you do what is right.

Being a friend means that when your friends doubts themselves – you believe in them; when your friends are overwhelmed – you stand by them; and when they fall – you pick them up.

Being a friend means that you know enough about your friend to destroy them – but you don’t.

Remember – that God has called you His friend. He knows enough about you to destroy you – but He won’t. He will stick closer than a brother. Now that's friendship.

Assumptions You CAN Make

2010-07-09T11:14:00.000-04:00

Leadership Lesson
“Assumptions You CAN Make”

Most leaders understand that making assumptions is unwise and can result in a bunch of I wish I hadn’t done that problems, at least they understand this academically. Most of us have heard the old saying goes: “When you ASSUME, you make an ASS of U and ME.”

Yet, as imperfect people; leaders, fathers, mothers, teachers, supervisors, managers, and teammates, we all tend to make assumptions.

So the question is, “Are there any safe assumptions that we can make? Are there things that, you can feel okay in assuming and thus behaving accordingly? Here are a few:

• The e-mails you send will be seen by more people than those they are addressed to and intended for.

• Things said “just between you and me” will not always stay, “just between you and me.”

• In all of your dealings with team members, what goes around WILL come around – back at you.

• Your employees cannot read your mind. If you do not tell them what you are thinking, they will assume they know…and there is a good chance they will assume wrong.

• Problems you choose to avoid - will usually get worse.

• “As long as you don’t hear from me, you know you are doing okay” - is just not true.

• Treat one team member poorly, and ten people will hear about it – including your boss … and HR.

• Your ability to get another leadership position, will be directly related to how well you do on the job you have now.

• Whenever you think “no one will know,” someone WILL.

• Whenever you think “no one will care,” someone WILL.

• Whenever you think “it will never be missed,” it WILL.

• Whenever you think you are as good as you need to be, YOU’RE NOT!

Persevere

2010-07-02T09:41:00.000-04:00

Perseverence means
1. Succeeding because you are determined to - not because you are entitled to.
2. Understanding that this life is not one long race - but many short races in succession.

In order to reach your destiny and fulfill your vision, perseverence is key. The ability to outlast problems; disappointments; discouragements; and even disillusionment. Perseverence is needed to win the prize.

The story has been told of the Sales Executive who met with over 2,000 of his sales associates and asked them the question, "Did the Wright Brothers quit?" "No!" They shouted. "Did Charles Lindberg quit?" "No!" They responded with excitement. "Did Lance Armstrong quit?" "No!" They stood up and screamed. "Did Felix McCarver quit?"

There was a long, confused and cautious silence. Then a salesperson shouted, "Who in the world is Felix McCarver? Nobody has ever heard of him." The Sales Executive shouted back..."Of course you haven't...that's because he quit!"

The Scriptures says, "We will reap a harvest, in due season, if we do not give up."

Two Father...Really?

2010-06-28T11:35:00.000-04:00

Fatherhood is too critical to the survival of our nation and the world for us to simply ignore the outrageous albeit subtle claim made by our President in his Father’s Day Proclamation.

President Barack Obama stated that, “Nurturing families come in many forms, and children may be raised by a father and mother, a single father, two fathers (emphasis mine), a step-father, a grandfather, or caring guardian.”

This subtle statement has many not so subtle implications, the least of which is that the homosexual lifestyle is both acceptable and normal for America.

At a time when our nation needs men to be men and fathers to be the moral leaders in their homes and in our communities, it is in my opinion, both sad and startling to hear our President, continue to press and promotion the homosexual agenda and lifestyle.

Dr. Phillip M. Davis
Author, “Father Force, Changing The World, One Life At A Time

FATHER'S DAY, 2010, BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, A PROCLAMATION

From the first moments of life, the bond forged between a father and a child is sacred. Whether patching scraped knees or helping with homework, dads bring joy, instill values, and introduce wonders into the lives of their children. Father's Day is a special time to honor the men who raised us, and to thank them for their selfless dedication and love.

Fathers are our first teachers and coaches, mentors and role models. They push us to succeed, encourage us when we are struggling, and offer unconditional care and support. Children and adults alike look up to them and learn from their example and perspective. The journey of fatherhood is both exhilarating and humbling -- it is an opportunity to model who we want our sons and daughters to become, and to build the foundation upon which they can achieve their dreams.

Fatherhood also carries enormous responsibilities. An active, committed father makes a lasting difference in the life of a child. When fathers are not present, their children and families cope with an absence government cannot fill. Across America, foster and adoptive fathers respond to this need, providing safe and loving homes for children facing hardships. Men are also making compassionate commitments outside the home by serving as mentors, tutors, or big brothers to young people in their community. Together, we can support the guiding presence of male role models in the lives of countless young people who stand to gain from it.

Nurturing families come in many forms, and children may be raised by a father and mother, a single father, two fathers, a step-father, a grandfather, or caring guardian. We owe a special debt of gratitude for those parents serving in the United States Armed Forces and their families, whose sacrifices protect the lives and liberties of all American children. For the character they build, the doors they open, and the love they provide over our lifetimes, all our fathers deserve our unending appreciation and admiration.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress approved April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June 20, 2010, as Father's Day.

I direct the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on this day, and I call upon all citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities. Let us honor our fathers, living and deceased, with all the love and gratitude they deserve.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

You Have Been Here Long Enough

2010-06-25T11:44:00.000-04:00

Twice in the first two chapters of the Book of Deuteronomy (1:6 and 2:1), God told His people that they had spent enough time doing nothing or going around in circles. God said to them, “…you have been here, in this position and condition, long enough.”

The Bible teaches us in the Book of Ecclesiastes, that there is a time for everything under the sun. Many people who write me; call me; email me; tell me that they are in a season of waiting. While I recognize the truth that we are to wait on the Lord and be of good courage; I also hear the voice of God saying, “…you have been here, in this position and condition, long enough.”

This is the first year of the new decade, 2010. We are about mid-way through the year, as I write this challenge to you. My question to you is this:

• Are you waiting for the economy to turn around before you start that business you've always wanted? I know Christian Businessmen who started a multi-million dollar business in the midst of the recession and in a down economy.
• Are you waiting for the right circumstances so you can go back to school and get the advanced degree you would like to have? Most people could easily earn an advanced degree (or any degree) just by simply using the time they spend watching TV. Accredited and valuable, online learning has put it within reach of ANYONE.
• Are you waiting for things to slow down at work (or for the children to get older) so you can write the book that's inside of you? The only time things will ever slow down for you is when you're too sick (or too dead) to do anything about it anyway. Go ahead and get started now. Even if you only write a single, measly page a day you'd have your first book done (and maybe part of a second) by this time next year.
• Are you waiting for (fill in the blank) before you do something about (fill in the blank)?

Wait. Wait. Wait. Now is NOT the time to WAIT!

The sooner you take positive action toward your dream, the faster you will be on the road to rising above the current economy or anything else that seems to be holding you back.

Things are tough for some people right now, and according to many experts in the field of economics, they may be getting even tougher.

There is still time in 2010 for you to make this your breakthrough year. One client wrote and told me, “I am on my way to reaching all my goals, just by listening over and over and applying the principles in your teaching series, “The You In You, Discovering Your Personal Greatness.”

Friends, the next six months are going to pass by whether you are working for your dreams or not. Why not make the most of it...visit us at www.theyouinyou.com and order your copy of The You In You Series… because you have been around this mountain, long enough!

That's Insane

2010-06-21T11:14:00.000-04:00

The classic definition of insanity is…doing the same thing; the same way; over and over again…and expecting different results.

That’s insane. You cannot keep thinking; speaking; and acting the same way you have been for years and years…and expect things to be different or to change for the better in your life!

If you want something that you have never had before – you must be willing to do something that you have never done before! Most people claim to want something different…but they keep doing the same thing.

Jesus said, "You cannot put new wine in old wineskins.” In other words, you cannot put new, fresh, thinking…into a mind that is not prepared for change.

The Bible teaches that if you want real change in your life, then you must begin, by renewing the spirit of your mind.

Remember this…“Don’t be conformed to this world’s way of thinking, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

All Change – Begins With A Change of Mind!

Attitude is Everything

2010-06-11T10:53:00.000-04:00

The Bible says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Someone once said that your attitude determines your altitude. In other words, you will only go as far in life; in business; in school; or in any relationship…as your attitude takes you!

Your attitude is more important than facts. It is more important than your past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than success, and more important than what other people think, say or do.

Attitude is more important than appearance, gifts, or skill. Life is filled skilled, competent and knowledgeable people who have bad, negative, critical, fault-finding, attitudes.

While they may have all the necessary outward skills…it is their inward attitude that keeps them from flourishing and reaching their fullest potential and divine destiny.

Your attitude will make or break your home; your company, your church or any community or nation.

However…the great thing about life is that you have a choice every day regarding the attitude that you will embrace for that day!

So today and every day…embrace an “I Can” Attitude; embrace an “I will succeed; I will serve; I will contribute; I will win” Attitude - because, “As you think in your heart…so you will be.”

Who Do You THINK You Are?

2010-06-04T19:08:00.000-04:00

Who Do You THINK You Are?

The Book of Wisdom, Proverbs 23:07 says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”

You have been given the power to think and with that power to think also come the responsibility to think. Your thoughts determine who you are and what you accomplish.

As you discipline your thinking (2 Corinthians 10:4-5) and think about what you are thinking about, no amount of racism; sexism; classism or any other cultural, man-made obstcles, can limit you from fulfilling the divine destiny God has prepared for you.

The power to define oneself, is the power to determine one's destiny. No one has the power or the right to define you…except the Father, who created you. When you allow other people; their prejudices and their limitations…to define you, you have chosen to be limited to their definition of you.

When you allow your past and your circumstances to define you; you choose to be limited to the temporary trials of life.

God created you fearfully (with awe) and wonderfully (with majesty) and God has ordained you to have and to experience life in its fullest measure.

It is my desire to walk with you on your journey and to encourage each day…to discover the real you; the royal you; holy you; the wonderful you and to release the greatness that is within you!

Remember…You are today who you choose to be; you will be tomorrow who you choose to be. No one has the power, to determine your destiny but you. As you think in your heart…so you are!

This is Phillip Davis, reminding you today, to think about – what you are thinking about! www.facebook.com/you.inyou or www.twitter.com/drpmd.

It is my desire to encourage you to discover the greatness that is within you; to develop that greatness and to deploy that greatness in service to the next generation. It is my desire to empower you with the wisdom of the ages, so that you accept the fact that you are who you think you are.

No matter what you have ever been told; no matter what you have experienced that may seem to the contrary – you are God’s choice and treasured creation.

Who do you THINK you are? Write me and let me know your story and how your identity has been shaped and I will write you back and walk with you to victory!

Dr. Phillip M. Davis
fatherforce@nationsford.org
pmdavis@nationsford.org