Happiness Is Determined By Who You Are Not By What You Possess

“So when Jesus heard these things, He said to him, ‘You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in Heaven; and come, follow Me.’ But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich.”
Luke 18:22-23 (NKJV)

FEBRUARY 18 - Once you hear the soul-pounding reverberation of the shofar (or ram’s horn), by far the oldest of all Jewish musical instruments, you will never be the same. Professional musicians, as well as minstrels, regularly played in the palaces and temples of Israel, creating happiness and elation for their adoring listeners. But it was not the harp, lyre, trimbrel, or kinnor that generated this happiness. It was the gift and enthusiastic flair of the musician, the heavenly melodies and sacred rhythms that dwelt within, exuding those delightful songs. Society would have us believe happiness is what we have, not who we are. No doubt you have heard people say, “I would be happy if I had a million dollars,” “…lived in a mansion,” or “…drove an expensive car.” Sure, it is possible to have these things and still be happy, but these material possessions do not, and will not, produce happiness.

Ask the wife who has all the jewelry and clothes she could ever imagine, yet discovers her husband is cheating on her. Is she happy? Although someone may have all the money, cars, and houses one could ever want, that does not mean they are happy. Life is more than just achieving your personal goals and acquiring material possessions. True happiness is the direct result of knowing God and living out your purpose. It is about who you are inside, not the things you possess. Without purpose, life is meaningless and ultimately very dissatisfying. Start today living life to the fullest and pursuing God with everything you have.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that my true happiness is determined by who I am, not by what I possess.

Day 18: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

Ecclesiastes 7

Featured Resource

2008 Inspiring Excellence Week - CDs

Purchase your copy of this year’s Inspiring Excellence Conference, all 16 messages, in our CD set! Let God’s Word continue to transform your life long after the conference has ended!

Inspiring Excellence Conference
July 13 - 20, 2008

Last year’s speaker included:
Robb Thompson
Rod Parsley
Mike Murdock
Mark Hankins
Ray Comfort
John Avanzini
Jesse Duplantis
Robert Kayanja

 

Posted under Happiness

This post was written by admin on February 18, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

The Actions You Embrace Are A Documentation Of What You Believe

“Yea, a man may say, thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith
without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”

James 2:18 (KJV)

FEBRUARY 17 - For a substantial number of sessions, we are going to enter God’s dwelling place of Palestine, exploring its vibrant culture, its Biblical symbolism, and its majestic pageantry. Did you know that Old Testament Hebrew boys typically followed their father’s vocations such as shepherding, weaving, or fishing? Their distinct actions became a documentation of what they believed about their distinct trades. Shepherds were recognized by their expertise for gathering flocks and extensive knowledge of the elements, while weavers were acclaimed for their technological operation of intricate looms and shuttles, and fishermen were  esteemed for the physical challenges produced by the ever-changing sea.

What you believe is always revealed by your actions. As believers, there are times when we think we believe the Word of God when in fact, our actions prove otherwise. James states that the “proof is in the pudding.” If someone says they believe God’s Word, but doesn’t support it with their actions, their faith is as dead as the nearly extinct occupation of “town crier.” True faith is continually followed by actions. The apostle John confirmed this when he wrote these words, “Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3).

Jesus asked His disciples, “Why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and do not what I say?” Like the shepherd, weaver, and fisherman, allow God to help you prove your actions by trusting daily through unwavering obedience.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I am a doer of the Word, not a hearer only. My faith is alive and working, and I prove my faith in Your Word through my actions.

Day 17: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 14

Featured Resource

2008 Inspiring Excellence Week - CDs

Purchase your copy of this year’s Inspiring Excellence Conference, all 16 messages, in our CD set! Let God’s Word continue to transform your life long after the conference has ended!

Inspiring Excellence Conference
July 13 - 20, 2008

Last year’s speaker included:
Robb Thompson
Rod Parsley
Mike Murdock
Mark Hankins
Ray Comfort
John Avanzini
Jesse Duplantis
Robert Kayanja

 

Posted under Action

This post was written by admin on February 17, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Right Must Never Be Penalized And Wrong Must Never Be Rewarded

“Even while we were with you, we gave you this rule:
‘whoever does not work should not eat.’”

2 Thessalonians 3:10 (NLT)

FEBRUARY 16 - Some Americans may have forgotten, but the United States Constitution did not consign the nation to be ruled by judges. Established with the divinely inspired system of “checks and balances,” America’s unique government is separated into three branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—one continually serving the other. That is exactly how “liberty and justice for all” was created. Recently, however, it seems there has been a disproportionate shift in standards, accentuating an imperial judiciary instead of this branch being the least powerful of the three, consigning the nation to be ruled by judges.

Paralleling this unjust trend, the standards once held by the early Christian church have also declined. Additionally, a shift within the body of Christ from exclusivity to all-inclusive has begun to take place. We have communicated an errant message that everyone can be rewarded in Heaven without doing what is right. This plainly is not just. The shift is evident throughout the entire world, and has infiltrated the church, causing it to be filled with so-called “Christians” who don’t produce Godly fruit. Repeatedly, God’s Word
reveals that rewards are extended only to those who obey.

There must be a balance between seeking the lost and allowing people to determine their own course. Did Jesus ever chase after those who wanted to abandon Him? Absolutely not! Once people knew who He was, Jesus allowed them to decide who they would follow. He did not force Himself upon anyone. If He would have, there would be no reward because God only rewards those whose faith causes pursuit. We must commit to the Word of God and stand our ground to receive what is rightfully ours. Now that is truly “liberty and justice for all.”

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I am a doer of the Word and not a hearer only. I produce much fruit that brings You glory.

Day 16: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 13

Featured Resource

Stronger Everyday - Women’s Conference

Join host Linda Thompson for the annual spring Women’s Conference, where special guests, Robb Thompson and Pat Mesiti will exhort you to grow stronger mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Register today! Price goes up in March!
Registration includes all sessions, food fare, and gift bag.
Now - Feb. 28 $30*
March 1 - 21 $35*
March 22 - 27 $40*
One day only $15*

*Registration required for everyone. FREE for widows, ladies 65 & older, and girls 8th grade and under.

Ladies, my desire is that your testimony would be that you are a woman who is true to her walk with the Lord. I want you to look back at each year of your life and see that no matter what came your way, you made a decision to clothe yourself with strength and dignity!!!

We’ll see you there!
~ Linda Thompson

SCHEDULE

03|26|09
Thursday, 7:00 pm
Opening Meeting

03|27|09
Friday, 9:30 am
Meeting
Childcare available this service

6:30 pm
Meeting
Light meal served

03|28|09
Saturday, 9:00 am
Continental Breakfast

9:30 am
Meeting

 

Posted under Justice

This post was written by admin on February 16, 2009

Tags: , , , , , ,

Pain Is The Signal Directing Traffic On The Road To Progress

“So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves
with the same attitude He had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you are
willing to suffer for Christ, you have decided to stop sinning.”
1 Peter 4:1 (NLT)

FEBRUARY 15 - The saying, “No pain, no gain,” has proved true throughout time. In health, wealth, knowledge, and personal development, many attempt success without paying a price. God never promised us an easy road to attain His will for our lives; in fact, His presence creates (and actually stimulates) the pain of pronounced growth. Remember, the Father prunes those who bear fruit so they might bear more.

The apostle Paul tells us, “I harden my body with blows and bring it under complete control…” That doesn’t sound pain-free to me. If there was anyone who knew about pain, Paul did. Although he served the Lord and walked a life of obedience, pain was not absent from his life.

Are you aware that pain and peace often securely join hands? The peace surpassing all understanding flows from our spirit, though we may have physical or emotional pain. When everything seems to go wrong, God’s peace causes us to see our situation through the omniscient eyes of Heaven. Growing pains are inevitable. But we must choose to embrace pain, arming ourselves with the refining effect it has on us. Our reward is worth any pain we must presently endure.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I arm myself with the same attitude Christ had, and I am ready to suffer. I work diligently to attain what You desire for me.

Day 15: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

Genesis 7

Featured Resource

Stronger Everyday - Women’s Conference

Join host Linda Thompson for the annual spring Women’s Conference, where special guests, Robb Thompson and Pat Mesiti will exhort you to grow stronger mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Register today! Price goes up in March!
Registration includes all sessions, food fare, and gift bag.
Now - Feb. 28 $30*
March 1 - 21 $35*
March 22 - 27 $40*
One day only $15*

*Registration required for everyone. FREE for widows, ladies 65 & older, and girls 8th grade and under.

Ladies, my desire is that your testimony would be that you are a woman who is true to her walk with the Lord. I want you to look back at each year of your life and see that no matter what came your way, you made a decision to clothe yourself with strength and dignity!!!

We’ll see you there!
~ Linda Thompson

SCHEDULE

03|26|09
Thursday, 7:00 pm
Opening Meeting

03|27|09
Friday, 9:30 am
Meeting
Childcare available this service

6:30 pm
Meeting
Light meal served

03|28|09
Saturday, 9:00 am
Continental Breakfast

9:30 am
Meeting

 

Posted under Progress

This post was written by admin on February 15, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

You Must Sacrifice What You Already Have In Order To Possess What You Desire

“The kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field—and to get the treasure, too!”
Matthew 13:44 (NLT)

FEBRUARY 14 - While Union and Confederate troops were bleeding and dying in the battlefield and the war effort was in serious need of supplies, the President’s wife, Mary Todd, was resolute. She purchased 400 pairs of gloves during her first year in the White House, and her most famous acquisition was an ornate rosewood bed that was never slept in by the President. Though challenged to sacrifice, she refused even during a gory, treasury-depleting civil war. Quite prosperous in her own right, Mary Todd Lincoln had no inclination of setting an example of sacrifice.

One of the main reasons so many Christians stray from the faith is because they were never challenged to pay a price to follow Christ. The only proof that you value something is your willingness to sacrifice something you already have in order to possess it. Did not God value us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His only Son? But the Gospel message has been so watered down that we don’t even mention the sacrifice people are required to make to live for Jesus.

What have you given up to follow Christ? I have never seen a Christian enjoy life who was unwilling to sacrifice his own life and the desires that typically come. To be honest, I believe there is more joy for an unbeliever living in sin than a Christian who stubbornly withholds his life from Christ Jesus. May God help you give up your life to serve and live for Him. Then you will possess the abundant life Jesus offers.

Daily Confession

Father, I esteem and value my relationship with Christ more than life itself. It is my treasure. I lay down my life for Christ that I may gain and possess all You have for me.

Day 14: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 12

Featured Resource

The Keys of Your Freedom - CD

4 CDs

John 8:36 says, “For whom the Son sets free is free indeed.” But how do we walk in the freedom that was purchased for us? How do we go from “white knuckling it,” to simply “believing it?”

In this dynamic series, Dr. Robb Thompson gives you the keys to unlock the door of your freedom. You will learn that freedom isn’t something you are trying to attain; it’s something that is already yours – but someone is trying to steal it! Dr. Thompson shows you how to expose the thief, defeat him, and walk in overcoming victory!

Freedom is God’s will for every believer. Find out how you can experience it today!

 

Posted under Sacrfice

This post was written by admin on February 14, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Failure Comes Alive The Moment You Loose Focus

“What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come to be.
I have no peace, no quietness. I have no rest; instead, only trouble comes.”

Job 3:25-26 (NLT)

FEBRUARY 13 - Born with the rare defect of fused legs, sometimes known as the “mermaid syndrome,” the Peruvian parents of this otherwise vivacious little girl did not fear. Instead, they allowed doctors to perform the risky surgery of separating her tiny legs, the outcome a great success. And it’s no wonder – they had named the child Milagros, focusing upon the “miracle” that they believed would ultimately come to pass.

But rather than dwelling upon the good things of life, Job began to focus on loss. His broken focus invited fear to show its menacing face, which is why he candidly declared, “What I have always feared has happened to me.” Though Job was a righteous man in every aspect, when he decided to focus on the expressed possibility of losing his splendor, he opened the shabby door of fear to overtake him.

Do you live in fear? Do you focus on the possibility of negative things coming to your life? If you choose to focus on the “what-ifs” of life, you’ll persistently exist as a hostage to fear, incarcerated within the solitary prison of pessimistic dread. Conversely, Jesus did something quite different. The “what-ifs” were of no concern to Him. He trusted in the faithfulness of God—confidently recognizing that He himself was able to determine the outcome of His life.

Remember, God is the one who calls into existence what never existed before. You can do the same. So change your focus today, and believe with the fervor of little Milagros’ parents, directing your sights completely upon the God who will never, ever fail.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that You are my God and that You care for me.
I choose to focus on Your promises of eternal life even while I live in this world.

Day 13: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 11

Featured Resource

The Keys of Your Freedom - CD

4 CDs

John 8:36 says, “For whom the Son sets free is free indeed.” But how do we walk in the freedom that was purchased for us? How do we go from “white knuckling it,” to simply “believing it?”

In this dynamic series, Dr. Robb Thompson gives you the keys to unlock the door of your freedom. You will learn that freedom isn’t something you are trying to attain; it’s something that is already yours – but someone is trying to steal it! Dr. Thompson shows you how to expose the thief, defeat him, and walk in overcoming victory!

Freedom is God’s will for every believer. Find out how you can experience it today!

 

Posted under Focus

This post was written by admin on February 13, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , ,

The Measure Of The Seed You Scatter Will Determine The Size Of The Harvest You Reap

“He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly and he who sows generously will also reap generously.”
2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV)

FEBRUARY 12 - The forefathers of the United States of America sowed an abundant seed, going far beyond anyone else’s visions and dreams. Following years of late-night wrangling with the Continental Congress, along with the agony of the vicious Revolutionary War, the new government (one designed to honor man’s right to worship God) was underway. Its top executive, however, needed a place for him and his family to dwell. By the year 1800, the “President’s House” was completed and occupied. But fourteen short years later, British troops brazenly set ablaze the grand edifice. By the next morning (what many call a “sign” from God), a hurricane with tremendous winds doused the raging flames, saving the great house’s shell; the charred skeleton was amazingly harvested, reaped as a symbol of freedom for all.

As you study this principle, you may find yourself in a season of lack in your finances. If we desire any type of increase in our life, we must be willing to sow further in the financial arena than ever before. But remember—without sowing a seed, there can be no harvest to reap.

Everyone can give while things are going well. But those who give during the times of struggle, as did America’s forefathers, really impress the heart of God. We must establish a plan of giving more to God so He can sequentially begin to release more finances in our lives. Let me encourage you—continue the flow of giving during times of lack. Do you recall the widow woman who gave two pennies when she had barely anything to give? Jesus favored the widow woman because she gave out of her lack, not her abundance. I encourage you to do the same.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I am a generous giver. I sow abundantly knowing I will reap abundantly.

Day 12: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 10

Featured Resource

Breaking Free Small Group DVD

So many people are bound by situations that hold them back from experiencing God’s best for their lives. During the breaking free studies you will discover how to live God’s best, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially.

All the topics cover a scriptural basis and principles highlight important process for success. By applying God’s principles and working with your group supporting one another, you will surely break free from many of societies ill’s.

4 DVD Set

For small group studies add:
Breaking Free book
Breaking Free workbook

 

Posted under Seed, Sowing

This post was written by admin on February 12, 2009

Tags: , , , ,

The Fragrance That Pleases God Is The Aroma Of Your Hourly Obedience

“Samuel replied, ‘Has the Lord as much pleasure in your burnt offerings
and sacrifices as in your obedience? Obedience is far better than sacrifice.
He is much more interested in your listening to Him than
in your offering the fat of rams to Him.’”

1 Samuel 15:22 (TLB)

FEBRUARY 11 - Obedience is the only thing God ever explicitly requires. Although a faithful and loving God, precious few are quick to obey His instructions. On occasion, what God tells us may seem utterly illogical, or brutally disappointing. It may also, at diverse times, keep us from getting something we desire. Yet, it is not until we obey Him without restraint that our obedience infiltrates Heaven with its pleasant aroma.

The apostle Paul instructs us to “present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service.” We must give up claim to our childish wants, individual desires, and selfish reasoning so we can stalwartly obey our Lord.

God delights in our obedience, and requires us to conform to His instruction. The obedience we offer Him far exceeds our daily sacrifice, since God does not ask us to make a grand sacrifice; He simply requests daily obedience in the little things. That is the only sacrifice He is pleased to accept; it is the way He crafted us.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I am willing and obedient and I eat the best of the land. I understand that You delight in obedience far more than any sacrifice I can offer. I choose to obey Your instruction, for my desire is to please You.

Day 11: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

Ecclesiastes 6

Featured Resource

Breaking Free Small Group DVD

So many people are bound by situations that hold them back from experiencing God’s best for their lives. During the breaking free studies you will discover how to live God’s best, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially.

All the topics cover a scriptural basis and principles highlight important process for success. By applying God’s principles and working with your group supporting one another, you will surely break free from many of societies ill’s.

4 DVD Set

For small group studies add:
Breaking Free book
Breaking Free workbook

 

Posted under Obedience

This post was written by admin on February 11, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Your Mood Is Determined By What Has Captured Your Focus

“We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends
from start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross
because of the joy He knew would be His afterward. Now He is seated
in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.”

Hebrews 12:2 (NLT)

FEBRUARY 10 - Have you realized that if something can quantitatively capture your focus, it eventually alters your entire life? Many stories and charming little poems have been written about a tiny, yet intriguing insect. Known to scientists as the “ladybird beetle,” these colorful insects do not just arbitrarily flit through the air, landing on any old site—they possess a focus, an expressed concentration.

The emotions you feel, whether good or bad, reveal what has avidly captured your attention. Choose your focus! Don’t live discouraged, sad, or habitually depressed. Happiness, joy, and peace can becomepermanent fruit, skillfully gleaned from your spiritual garden.

Why harbor negativity? It only thwarts comprehensive, satisfying achievement. Negative thoughts restrain you from pursuing what you desire. If you think you can’t, you won’t, and you will never walk in the destiny God has for your life. Without paying strict attention to their landing strips, the ladybug will never attain continual sustenance. Anything you want requires you to passionately pursue it; otherwise, you will fall short every time. While focusing on the sustenance of God’s Word, go after everything He promised you.

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I fix my eyes on Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of my faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of Your throne.

Day 10: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 6

Featured Resource

Sermon Library - Data Discs

Now you can have access to over one hundred of Dr. Thompson’s greatest sermons of 2007. We are making available Dr. Thompson’s message outlines and PowerPoint presentations for an amazing price! Make sure to pick up your volume today.

Sermon titles include:

1. Divine Jurisdiction
2. How To Have A Happy Life
3. Where Are You Going?
4. Excellence: The Perfume Of A Conscientious Life
5. Getting Real Answers
6. Salvation Examination
7. Defeating The Giants
8. Rising To A New Dimension
9. Winning Over Your Tongue
10. Freedom From Fear

 

Posted under Focus

This post was written by admin on February 10, 2009

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

The Fulfillment Of The Great Commission Depends On The Unity Of God’s People

“‘Look!’ he said. ‘If they can accomplish this when they have
just begun to take advantage of their common language and political unity,
just think of what they will do later. Nothing will be impossible for them!’”

Genesis 11:6 (NLT)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Matthew 28:19 (NKJV)

FEBRUARY 9 - It’s time for the Body of Christ to unite. We must eagerly join forces to accomplish the great mission that has been given us. Although every doctrinal issue may not be settled, harmony is necessary for the spreading of the Gospel. And the Gospel is the foremost reason why we are here on earth. Satan’s aim is to bring division. He understands if he can cause us to be divided, our strength is sorely limited. Seemingly, we no longer fight against him; we now fight one another. This discord must end! And it begins with you and me.

As bees mold tightly within the hive under the command of the queen, we must also unite under the  direction of Heaven. The strength of the church is non-existent if we refuse to come together. The mission is the same for every believer; nothing is impossible to those who walk in harmony. Satan deceived us into using our spiritual weapons to fight against one another for too long—we must unite our strengths and influence to render the gates of hell powerless, once and for all. When we walk in cohesive accord, there is no devil able to stop what we set out to do. May God help us come together and preach this Gospel to a lost and dying world!

Daily Confession

Father, I thank You that I unite under the instruction and direction
of Heaven with my brothers and my sisters in Christ. I thank You that I am mature and full grown in You, fitted together with the body of Christ and doing my part.

Day 9: Audio Confession

Family Scripture Reading

1 Corinthians 8

Featured Resource

Ready To Receive - CD

My soul thirsts for You; my whole body longs for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water! (Psalm 63:1).

We lift our voice with the voice of David, as we cry out for God’s presence and power. Ever hungry for His Word, ever thirsty for His living water, we stand with outstretched arms and eager hearts, Ready to Receive healing, joy, wisdom, and victory from our Father’s heart!

This recording is the cry of God’s people for His manifest presence among us. Lord, we are hungry for Your presence, and thirsty for Your righteousness. Come and fill us, Lord, for we are Ready to Receive!

Songs Include:
1 Stand Up On Your Feet
2 Praise, Praise, Praise
3 To Deserve
4 Lift Up Holy Hands
5 Shake the Foundations
6 Glory
7 Show Your Glory
8 Worthy
9 Transform Me
10 Prayer
11 By Your Word

 

Posted under Unity

This post was written by admin on February 9, 2009

Tags: , , , , , ,