Coffee with Carole: Recent Episodes
IPD Coach Carole Mendoza
Join Carole Mendoza as she discusses simple, faith-driven strategies for leadership, personal & professional growth and navigating the challenges of living a life by God's Design! Her uplifting and inspirational messages come from her book, The All-In Paragon; Living a life by God's Design. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/coffeewithcarole/support
Want free resources? Visit: www.allinparagon.com
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Turn survival into serving!
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FOCUS- FAITH- Others- Consistently- Until- Surprised by God!
How can you serve someone today with your business?
How can you impact and encourage someone today?
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This is Chapter 8 of the book!
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This is chapter 7. Want some free resources? visit https://www.allinparagon.com
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Intuition vs. Ideas
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Chapter 5 - How All In Came About
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Chapter 4- Growth Requires Attachment
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This is Chapter 2- The Struggle is Real
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This is Chapter 2- Distractions
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Listen in as Coach Carole reads her book and adds additional information and insights. This is the Intro and Chapter 1.
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TRANSCRIPT available in Blog section of website www.coffee-with-carole.com
We already have been blessed with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3) So why do we have trouble getting going or moving into the life that God has called us to live?
1- We are waiting on God instead of acting in faith
2- We are too focused on the reality of our situation instead of the promises of God.
3-We are not willing to truly deny self.
Listen as Coach Carole shares practical ways to move into your blessing and receive your full provision.
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Listen in to the story of Pete and Norbert- 2 frogs with completely different mindsets.
- 10 tips on becoming a better leader and growing your business to become the person God has called you to become.
- Have a plan
- Contribute to another's success
- Be authentic and know your value
- Focus on the solution-not the problem
- It's ok to be different
- We all need that 1 crazy friend
- Set boundaries and say no when necessary
- Your past mistakes do not determine your future success
- Excuses are ways to avoid growth
- Stay consistent
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What do you do when you don't have a voice? You share the most recent training! Here is the video training that aired on January 21. I pray it is a blessing to you!
♥Coach Carole
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Do your words lift up and encourage? Do you find yourself speaking "truth" that is damaging or uncomplimentary of another person? Your words have power and you will be held accountable for every "empty" word that is spoken. (Matthew 12:36)
Psalm 141:3 tells us to guard our mouths and keep a watch over the door of our lips! Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you.
Speak only words that edify, lift up and encourage. (Ephesians 4:29)
The Lord’s prayer is the MODEL for prayer. The words are not the main point.
1- Declare and praise God as the only authority in Heaven and Earth.
2- Seek HIS will in all things (Matt 6:33)
3- Pray for your part in bringing Heaven to Earth
4- Acknowledge spiritual and physical nourishment are from HIM
5- Forgive others and Forgive yourself.
6- Ask for protection from the schemes of the enemy (Put on your Armor Ephesians 6)
7- Embrace the power that comes from Him.
Stay in constant conversation with God. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
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It’s always easiest when you start. It’s harder in the middle. It gets really tough at the end.
The world says, “It is better to have options than commit to one thing.” (Committing to one thing leaves no room for options)
Commitment narrows the path and options widen it.
Matthew 7:13-14: Jesus said that the way to heaven is narrow and the way to hell is wide. Ponder that one!
Matthew 5:37 says, "let your yes be yes and your no be no" Matthew 5:38 says, "anything other than that is from the evil one!"
How will you approach your commitments?
Proverbs 16:3- Commit your work to the Lord and He will establish your plans.
What is work? Work is ANYTHING you do.
A task, job, effort, endeavor, goal, actions, responsibilities, accomplishments, business, assignments, etc.
Every fiber of your being must be to seek, serve and please God in all things.
Commitment placed in the right place allows us to focus, invest and embrace purpose.
Want some FREE Resources to help you with living your life by God's design? Visit https://www.allinparagon.com now!
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When we struggle with purpose, we struggle with passion. Purpose creates passion and passion creates purpose. However, our world can be a very deceptive place to learn how to become the person that God intends for us to be. Many of the things we hear "sound" ok, but in reality they are not in alignment with God's word. Today's episode shares how we are influenced and what to look out for. The truth is not always easy to follow, and not all Christian organizations, coaches, and leaders are speaking it. Often times, they speak to what they think the audience wants to hear. 2 Timothy 4:3 warns of this! "The time will come when people will not listen to the true teaching. But people will find more and more teachers who please them. They will find teachers who say what they want to hear."
Take time to consider where you are confused and where you are not taking every thought, idea or feeling to God. Ask God before every decision: "Will this get me closer to becoming the person you want me to be, or will it keep me stuck right here?
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· Are we a part of God’s fan club or are we playing full out on God’s team?
Matt 18:18 18-20 “Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I’ll be there.
Take back your authority!!!
1. Who do you aspire to become? What words describe the you that you want to be?
2. Where are you allowing the outer world to influence or create the inner you? What are you allowing to drive your decisions and behaviors?
3. Do you think that there must be a specific type of woman who sets the standard for what the star playeron God’s team is?
4. What is the state of being you want to set as a standard of operation and response to life’s challenges? No matter the circumstances- your core attitude is what?
· Eve had a choice and so do we.
We can either choose to believe God’s word or we can keep listening to the lies of the enemy.
1. What areas of your life are you working independently of God? What do you need to learn? Where do you need to grow? What needs to change?
2. Are your current decisions moving you closer to the person you want to become? If not, why not? What is something you can do to start becoming who God has called you to become?
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The world says, "If it is meant to be, it's up to me". John 15:5 tells us that apart from Jesus, we can do NOTHING!
How do you start your day? How do you handle challenges? What drives your decisions and your behaviors?
Consider how your day might look if you opened your eyes and said, "Thank you God for the breath in my lungs and the ability to serve YOU today."
Maybe, instead of thinking that things aren't happening because of "God's timing", we recognize that we are not allowing Him to lead.
If you are ready to make a shift in your thinking, consider scheduling a virtual coffee with me. I would love to help you remove the stress and walk in peace!
Schedule Now!
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Let's look at 2023 with a focus on the person we aspire to be- the person that God has called us to become.
- Who/What does this person value most?
- Who does this person most respect?
- What are the things that drive this person?
- What is this person celebrating at the end of 2023?
Become God-driven vs. Goal Driven!
Value People more than profits and process!
Become a BOLD promise speaker instead of a great problem solver!
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When we lose, what do we focus on? The world says is it is your responsibility. God says, "I can turn your failures into triumph! I lead the way!"
Listen in as we discuss loss in a business.
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You may think this has to do with your finances, but it has more to do with your attention! Listen in as we discuss why we need to be intentional with what we are focusing on!
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When things don't make any sense to us - when life simply doesn't seem to add up to what we think it should be, we actually limit our belief instead of increase it. Rather than focus on the situation and our human perspective, it is best to focus on God's character- his faithfulness, His power, his love, his desire to fulfill His purpose and will through us, His mercy and grace, that He is trustworthy and good all the time...it can change our perspective and remove our need to understand why. Isaiah 55:8-9 ♥ His thoughts are not our thoughts nor are His ways our ways.
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I recorded myself today putting on my armor. While I may not have said it perfectly, or sounded professional, it is what I do every day. Sometimes I spend more time with the belt of truth- praying for those in my life or meditating on the scriptures God has given me-- I do it standing up. I physically imagine putting on each piece of armor. I pray that hearing this it may inspire you to make this a daily practice. Stay alert. The enemy is on the prowl. ♥
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Do you like bananas in your smoothie? I don't. In fact, I can't stand them in a drink. I like them in bread or pancakes, but never in my smoothie. However, what if God required me to have bananas in my smoothie?
Whether it is a conscious thought or not, we all have a worldview and are walking around choosing how we like our smoothies. God's view is for our existence to reflect serving and loving Him- taking away our fleshly desires and "making our smoothie" according to His will and direction.
Most of us are somewhere between the 2. Listen to today's message to lean in a bit more to how to live your life by God's design and get yourself out of the blender!♥ Carole
LINK TO VIDEO THAT IS HARD TO HEAR-CLICK HERE!
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Grab your notebook and pen! Take some time to reflect and ask yourself (and GOD) these powerful questions!
1- How committed to change am I ? Why?
2- Where am I not willing to step outside my comfort zone? Where am I not courageous?
3- What stops me from taking action? What do I say to myself or how do I interfere with taking action?
4-What is one meaningful thing I have learned in the past 6 months? How will I implement this lesson in the upcoming 6 months?
5-What is God's prophetic vision for my life and business? Ask God for supernatural wisdom and thoughts and then...take action!
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Every day we give God a report of our situation. What does it sound like? Are you praising Him for His promises to you and claiming victory over every challenge and problem or are you full of worry and doubt? The Israelites showed us both prophetic vision and worldly sight. When God told them that the land of Canaan was theirs, they believed it. Yet, when the leaders (scouts) came back from assessing the land of Canaan they fell into doubt and worry over whether they would be able to have victory because they saw the Anak Giants and considered themselves like grasshoppers in comparison. Only 2 (Caleb and Joshua) had crazy faith. ONLY 2 of the 12 scouts. The others submitted to the fear and then filled the community of the Israelites with that same fear.
Is this not what is happening in our world today? Our news reports and daily chatter is filled with fear and there are very few who stand up with the authority that Jesus has given us! (Luke 10:19) NIV- "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
We have to take a stand and make a decision to embrace prophetic vision and reject worldly sight.
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Joseph was destined for great leadership but he had to go through the development process. How many of us, like Joseph, think we are ready for promotion and are frustrated because it isn't happening the way we think it should? God has perfect timing! If you want it to happen faster, you have to learn the lessons and make the changes that God requires! Ask, what do I need to learn? Where do I need to grow? What needs to change? Then, be obedient and do what God requires. Patience! The promotion is coming.
Genesis 37-41
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When you are faced with a challenge, what are the first thoughts you have and the first words you use? Your words and thoughts reveal what you are filled with. Are you filled with fear? Are you filled with the world's messages or are you filled with God's promises?
Proverbs 16:20 MSG says "It pays to take life seriously;things work out when you trust in God." Are we taking things seriously and acting like warriors or are we allowing fear and worry and doubt to crumble us and make us weak?
Sure, there is no doubt that we are in a battle called life, but God is greater than any challenge we face. Gas prices are high, but I am still driving my car. Food prices are high, but I am still eating. interest rates are increasing, but I am still paying my bills. If we will trust God with our situations and circumstances, He is always faithful to respond.
Let's change our words and thoughts to victory! Speak God's word instead of what you hear on the street! ♥
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Most of want to escape from situations that cause us to feel stressed or fearful. We also can react in fear by getting angry or completely freezing and not taking action. Abraham (Genesis 16) reacted in fear by telling a lie about Sarah being his sister instead of his wife.
The way we react to situations tells us a lot about how much we believe God & trust God. When we allow fear to rule instead of faith, we disappoint God. Your fear tells you what you value the most and your faith demonstrates the complete opposite.
Take time to consider why you are angry or want to run away from a situation. What is it that is causing you to stand paralyzed and not take action on your goals and dreams? Why are you becoming "resourceful" and looking for shortcuts or ways to make the situation work in your favor? Could it be that you are reacting in fear of an unknown challenge instead of responding in faith to a God who is ALWAYS working for your good?
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Have you ever felt that even though you’re doing what you know God wants you to, you just can’t seem to make it happen? You may be on the path that God placed you on but you just don’t seem to be making any progress or things don't seem to be "coming together".
Just because you feel that God has given you an opportunity or idea does not mean He wants you to take action on it in the same way it was presented to you. Take the time to ASK God for His opinion and direction. "God, is this what you want me to do?" "God, what do you say about this?" He may have specific guidelines or ideas for you to follow before you start taking action.
This was true for David when he decided to move the Ark of the Covenant and did not follow God's instructions to the letter. (1 Chronicles 13), It is a good reminder to filter all things through God and His word before acting on them.
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The very first fear was embarrassment. This type of fear can cause us to react in ways that are irrational. When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid from God out of a fear of embarrassment. (Genesis 3:8)
What would it be like to stand naked in front of your boss, or your family or your friends?- after you did something you were not supposed to do? How many times do we let our fear , or shame, push us to continue to make more problems for ourselves? Wouldn't it be better to simply take responsibility for the situation, admit your wrongdoing or mistake and learn from it?
I have done both. I can tell you that when you simply OWN your situation, fear has no choice but to go. When you ask God to show you HOW to handle your mistake instead of trying to push it under the rug, things work out so much better. Isaiah 41:10- "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
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We all like to be a part of the NEW, don't we? We love to hear about the new store or the new restaurant opening. There is just something wonderful about being a part of the NEW! Did you hear? There is a NEW earth and a NEW heaven coming! Are you ready for it? It is time to get serious and get prepared. ♥
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Chapter 47 in the book of Ezekiel is the vision of the river flowing from the temple and the process that God may take us through.
When we first enter into the waters, (verse 3) things are easy to manage. However, when things get challenging (verse 5), it is not that He has left us or that we have made a wrong decision, but rather that He requires us to become MORE dependent on Him. Rather than fight the current, relax and let the waters take you to where He has your blessing. You don't need to be prepared before you get there. God will prepare you along the way. God doesn't need systems, marketing or money to promote you. He just needs an obedient and willing heart. Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5 remind us that He will never leave us. Ask Him to show you how to trust Him more. You got this. You are almost there so just keep moving.
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If you are like most, you say you trust in God, yet you worry about things too. Ok, so maybe you don't actually trust God all that much! It's ok. We are all in the same place. However, there are ways to strengthen and deepen your trust in God. You actually have to practice it by applying His word to your life in a practical way. A daily surrender of all your tasks and to-do's is just one way of seeing God's hand at work in your life. Why not try it? ♥
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What do you do with new information? When you were ignorant to the information, you behaved one way...but now that you know, what will you do differently?
2 Corinthians 5:14-15 in the Message Bible says, "Our firm decision is to work from this focused center: One man died for everyone. That puts everyone in the same boat. He included everyone in his death so that everyone could be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own."
We are (as told to us in 2 Corinthians 6 NIV) in a "time of favor." What will we do with this information? What decisions will we make? How will we live with the knowledge that a man died for us? When will we stop taking things for granted and stop living small? Do you see the world issues as God speaking? Throughout scripture God has "shaken the earth" to get our attention. Does he finally have yours?
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Sometimes, we want God to approve or accept our decisions so much that we try to make His word fit our situation instead of conforming to it.
As you consider God's word, don't just read one line and apply it. Look at the rest of the verse or chapter. The original Bible was not written in English either. Sometimes we need to look up words to discover what God was actually saying when He said it! For example, PROSPER. Our translation may lead us to believe that it is material wealth that God gives. While He may give us this, “prosper” in the Greek literally means “to help on the road” or “succeed in reaching.” Prosperity is much more than money! Imagine having unending joy and peace? That is what God wants for us.
Go back to what you have learned and then work to discover what God is really saying. You might not like it, but it will be for your good. ♥
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We have all heard the phrase, "fear and faith can't fly on the same plane". But, is this true? As I work to live my life by God's design, I continue to question the teachings of the world.
Do you realize that God doesn't actually speak about faith and fear together, but He does speak about DOUBT and faith! In James 1:6 He reminds us that when we ask in faith, we should not doubt. Jesus confirms this by telling us in Matthew 21:21 that if we have faith WITHOUT doubt, we actually can throw a mountain into the ocean!
Fears and doubts go hand in hand, but it is the doubt that is the bigger problem. We have the authority to speak against the doubt and fear, but are we using it? Are we working to BELIEVE what God says? Every day we are given opportunities to test our faith and increase our belief, yet it seems we give the opportunities to the enemy instead.
Ephesians 4:27 tells us to give NO opportunity to the enemy! When you feel doubt creeping in, go to the Word of God and get tough. Speak to your situation and tell it what it will do in Jesus' name. Don't speak about it and create worry, fear and doubt.
God will show you. Just ask Him how. God does the how and you do the do! ♥
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God is faithful. He never lies. He never says something and does something else. How faithful are YOU to HIM?
I think, more than ever before, we need to be testing ourselves and our faithfulness to God. Let's spend time putting God first in everything and choosing HIM over the pressures of the world. Many of us look at Russia and the injustice in the Ukraine as a sign that Jesus is coming back.
You might say, "I am ready." But, are you? Are you truly ready for the persecution and difficulty you will face for your association to Christ? Take a look at how Jesus describes things surrounding His return for those who have faith. In Matthew 24:10, He says that many will turn away from their faith and betray and hate each other! - this is because of the way Christians will be treated! ( I would encourage you to read the entire chapter of Matthew 24)
He tells us that those who are steadfast in their faith will be saved.
Are you using these moments to practice your faith? With your money, relationships, time, careers, personal growth? In James he said that the testing of our faith creates steadfastness. But, unless we practice using our faith now, will we be strong enough to withstand the tribulations to come?
When I was in Youth Group as a teenager, we sang a song called "I wish we'd all been ready" by Larry Norman. It speaks about the rapture and not being ready for Jesus' return.
If we don't start now, while things are still easy for us, we may not be ready when things get tough. Use every current "Daniel Decision"-(decisions that test your convictions and steadfastness to what you believe) to strengthen your relationship with God. He will show you how. Just ask Him.
He is faithful to keep every promise and hold true to every word He spoke. Are you?
(For more information on what is to come: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 and 1 Thessalonians 5, Ezekial 38, Revelations 19 & 20)
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Short-term or Long-Term Investments?
I live in an area of Georgia that is growing and changing daily. It isn't surprising to me to drive through an area from one week to the next and see buildings and construction that seems to appear overnight. New commercial properties and new homes represent growth and future investments in our world.
How many of us focus on our personal growth, personal investments and personal goals? Are we planning for retirement? Vacations? College educations? Do we focus on our health and make decisions based upon the mantra that "Life is Short, live it to the fullest!"?
Yes, the decisions we make today affect our future. But, are we focusing on short-term or long-term investments?
Short-term investments end when we die our physical death. Long-term investments impact our life after our physical death.
God's original plan was for us to live here on earth in total peace. in Genesis 1:1-28 we read how He created an earth that had no drama, pain, worry, depression, cancer, or hospitals. In His+ original plan, there was no drug or pornography addiction, no human trafficking and no death. He set it up where there was no fighting, no democrats vs republicans, no stress or high gas prices- just a beautiful, place where everything we needed or wanted was provided for us by Him. He created us for one purpose- to bring HIM pleasure and enjoyment.
Yet, here we are..struggling, fighting, arguing, worrying, stressing ....and walking around like we don't know our purpose.
Let's make an intentional shift today to get back to the original plan and focus on our long-term investments.
1- Let's aim to please God with every action, decision and thought.
2-Let's focus on reading and studying His word.
3-Let's recognize that our feelings of dispair, frustration, anxiety, worry, fear, doubt, etc., are because we are focused on things of this world (short-term investments) and not on things of God (Long-term investments)
4- Let's start asking God for wisdom and direction for everything and get seriously obedient to whatever He says.
5- Let's believe in the sacrifice of His son!
Revelation 21:1-5- (MSG)
"I saw Heaven and earth new-created. Gone the first Heaven, gone the first earth, gone the sea.
2 I saw Holy Jerusalem, new-created, descending resplendent out of Heaven, as ready for God as a bride for her husband.
3-5 I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: “Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They’re his people, he’s their God. He’ll wipe every tear from their eyes. Death is gone for good—tears gone, crying gone, pain gone—all the first order of things gone.” The Enthroned continued, “Look! I’m making everything new. Write it all down—each word dependable and accurate.
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I think it is pretty safe to say that if you are listening to this, you speak English. However, is it your native language? If it is, do you speak any other languages or understand a little of another language? We learned our native language from the culture and people we grew up with. Our parents, teachers and friends taught us the language.
Yet, do you realize that God never designed the world to speak more than ONE language? Before there were more than 6500 languages, there was just ONE language and ONE culture in the entire world. Can you imagine that?
Genesis 11 explains how there became more than one language. You see, men realized their power. They built an enormous city and tower and never acknowledged God. This angered God and He decided to confuse men by creating multiple languages and scattering man all over the earth.
We are not supposed to do anything without God and we are supposed to know our first language!
How proficient are you in God's language? Do you take the time to practice it, study it, speak it with others and translate every thought, idea and concept from the language you know to better understand and learn His? This is the priority! In fact, it is our ONLY priority.
God does the how...we do the do. Let's learn God's language and become bi-lingual!
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Yikes! Do you sometimes feel like there is NO WAY you can stop and talk to God? Does the pull of the world and all the responsibilities you face suck you into action so you forget to ASK GOD to lead you?
Today was one of those days for me. I thought I could do it. I actually thought I could just get started and bring God along. This, my friends, NEVER works out well. So, what do I do when this happens? I stop. I force myself to stop. It takes intentional effort and honestly, it isn't easy. Yet, I know that if I continue to rely on myself instead of God, I will end up having a horrible day.
SO! I stop. I admit my shortcomings to God. I apologize for getting ahead of Him and ask for a restart. I ask Him to lead me and guide me from this moment forward and then I get back into alignment and just do what He tells me to do.
Your life will not get better if you keep pushing harder. It will only get better when you PRAY HARDER and seek God with 100% focused attention.
God will show you how. You truly just need to do the doing. If you need to chat, just reach out! Let's support each other and help each other to stay committed to living our lives by God's design. ♥ Carole@ipdcoaching.com
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As leaders we are faced with decisions every single day. For many leaders, some decisions are extremely difficult because the popular opinion may not be the best option. Many times, today's leader will spend time surveying the pulse of the people and ultimately is either unable to make a decision or makes a decision that compromises their values. For these leaders, it would seem their favorite color is plaid.
When you are faced with a decision or you have a goal, do you stop and look at what your team or organization is doing or thinking about or do you stand firm in your choices? Do you weigh the options and get other people's opinions or do you take your options to God and ask Him for guidance? Do your choices and decisions compromise your values or do you remain convicted to them?
Daniel is a perfect example of a leader who remained strong in his alignment and obedience to God' word & principles. He was not swayed by the popular opinion and even when he was thrown into the lions den he would not submit to the thoughts that went against God's. He had only ONE favorite color and he was 100% committed to it.
Will you decide to only accept the ONE opinion that matters? When you take your decisions to God & search for answers in scripture, you can move with confidence with your decisions. Even if they don't work out exactly as you had planned, God is faithful to bring it to an outcome that will benefit you and your team. TRUST it.
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Valentine's day is not just for lovers. When we are living by the world's design it may seem that way. So many become sad or depressed because they don't have a significant other to celebrate with. However, God is love and so no matter whether we are married or have a partner, LOVE is who we are!
1 Corinthians 13 is called the LOVE Chapter and read at most weddings. However, it is applicable to everyone and provides advice for every situation. The Message Bible has a great explanation of this chapter:
If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.
2 If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, “Jump,” and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing.
3-7 If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.
Love doesn’t strut,
Doesn’t have a swelled head,
Doesn’t force itself on others,
Isn’t always “me first,”
Doesn’t fly off the handle,
Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn’t revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
8-10 Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
11 When I was an infant at my mother’s breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.
12 We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
13 But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
So no matter whether you are in a relationship or not, make Valentine's Day about LOVE and serving others. ♥
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Philippians 4:8 tells us to think on things that are pure, honorable, just, praiseworthy, lovely, commendable, and excellent. For years I have taken this verse to mean that I should be "thinking positive" in all things. However, I never stopped to consider that it is written in the PRESENT tense, not in the future tense! We are to focus on the present and on what IS happening and find things that are excellent, just, praiseworthy, lovely, pure, commendable and honorable in the current moment.
I believe that the world has confused faith with optimism. We often hear, "Have faith! & Think positive" in the same sentence as if faith and thinking positive are the same. However, thinking positive is not having faith. When we "think positive" we are actually forcing ourselves to go into self and rely on self. Thinking positive is tied to a desired outcome. Faith, on the other hand, is tied to an unknown. Faith says, "I don't know how this will work out, but I do know who is in control of the outcome".
Honestly, I had it twisted for most of my life. Yet, every day I intentionally focus on God and ask Him to teach me more, I learn better how to live my life by God's design. This is another area of improvement for me!
Rather than saying, "Think Positive", I think I will start saying "Think Promises" and force myself to go to God in all things. How about you? ♥
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Do you own a business? Have you decided to invest in an opportunity to increase your time freedom & financial resources or to better use your talents and skills?
For most of us, especially women, who begin a business, we do so to help our family or our community. We start a home-based business, for example to stay home and care for our children or work to help the less fortunate. Yet, we don't always do the things that are required to run a business.
- A true business owner does the following:
Tracks the business, manages the money, uses a separate bank account, stays consistent in their efforts, and has a store front mentality (if you work from home) of specific hours of operation!
As Christians we are to take this a step further. We must remember that NOTHING is ours and we are simply stewards of God's resources. Our time, money, resource, relationships, connections, ideas and entire business belong to God.
Instead of asking how much do I need to give or do to honor God, we should be asking WHY God has given us the time, money, resources etc. and what does HE want us to do with it. This type of conversation should happen daily.
If we believe that God is who He says He is, then we must believe that everything belongs to Him.
Deut. 10:14, Colossians 1:16, 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
Consider your tithe as a reminder of who the money belongs to. Consider the service to your church as worship and praise for all the time He has given you.
Let God do the how while you do the do. ♥
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We all know that if we want something different we must do something different. This year I chose to commit to following Joshua 1:8 and put this verse into practice.
As I lean into God's vision for me and my business, I see growth and increase. It excites me , so I began to look at the things that I could do differently for my business to experience the increase as fast as possible. Unfortunately, God has His timing and His timing doesn't always line up with ours. Hebrews 13:5 says the we shouldn't be obsessed with getting more material things, but be relaxed with what we have and know that God will never let us down. Proverbs 23:4 tells us that trying to get rich will ruin our health and if we are smart we will stop doing that. Proverbs 22:1 reminds us that a respected name is worth more than silver or gold.
The world encourages us to advance, level-up, and know our financial worth- to run after the money and fame! It tells us that working toward these things is what makes a business grow and achieve! God says that there might be uncertainty in knowing when He will bring the increase and growth. but that we should work on trusting Him daily and know it will come.
God's vision requires a decision. We must decide to listen to God's voice even if it isn't what we want or if it makes us uncomfortable.
World or God. You decide.
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Building strong relationships starts with the words we choose. As women, we tend to want to share everything. We feel like it is our "job" to make sure things are known! But, we should be more careful with the words we share. Proverbs 21:23 tells us that those who are careful of the words they say will save themselves trouble and Proverbs 18:8 says gossip is like eating cheap candy!
Here are the main questions to consider when you are going to tell someone something!
1- Is it vital to their position or role? (they need to know it for a purpose related to them)
2- Is it uplifting and encouraging? Will it build up or edify them? (Ephesians 4:29)
Finally, consider "VENTING". This is a worldly term. Venting was created by the world. It is not from God. In fact, if you look at the LEADERS of the Bible, you notice that none of them complained, shared their fears, discouragement, etc with men. They went straight to God.
Consider the word VENT. It starts with a V. The V is shaped in such a way that it goes from ONE to ONE. Take your worries, fears, frustration, doubts, complaints, etc...to ONE person. Take them to God.
This is not always easy, but if you intentionally work at it, you will see great results!
http://www.openbible.info/topics/
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For most of us we believe that it is good to have options. Our world tells us that we should keep our options open...like a foot in the door. But, have you ever tried to reach something inside the house while your foot is in the door? Not easy to do. Sometimes, it is impossible to get what you want until you take your foot out of the door and go inside.
Many of us live our lives like this in our jobs and relationships. We live with a temporary attitude. "if it doesn't work out," we say, " I can always leave." Temporary means to last for a limited period of time. When we have a temporary attitude about our job or relationship, we are saying that it isn't going to last. This attitude will always leave us searching for peace and happiness. However, when we commit, take our foot out of the door and remove all options from the table, we experience true, lasting peace.
God tells us that He will give us a way out if a situation isn't going well. We don't need to look for it! (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Let's change our attitudes to permanent and committed and let God handle the details of things. Trust that He will move you when it is time. You don't need any options when you have Him. His next step will always be perfect and will always bring peace.
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Why is it we will immerse ourselves in our work to avoid the problems at home or immerse ourselves in a book or exercise to tune out what is going on around us? Some of us immerse ourselves in our feelings and thoughts and end up sinking deeper into depression and overwhelm, right?
If we want to see real change, we need to immerse ourselves in things that will create lasting change. What if we immersed ourselves spiritually? What if we ask God what needs to change within us, what we need to learn and where we need to grow?
Here are the 9 Steps to Spiritual Immersion:
I-Intentional Effort- Be intentional with your decision
M-Maximize your time- Fit God into every aspect of your life, not just for 1 hour in the morning!
M-Memorize scripture
E-Engage FULLY in things that will feed your faith
R-Read the bible
S-Sacrifice things you would prefer to do to give time to God
I-Increase the time you spend with God gradually
O-Obey what He tells you to do
N-Notice the changes in you as you apply these steps!
If you immerse yourself into God, you will eventually become what you hear!
Listen to my podcast daily. Get the FREE Self-Coaching E-Course by messaging me about it! (Click here) Register for my upcoming LIVE 6-week Course (REGISTER HERE)
Come follow me on Facebook! I will be doing LIVE trainings! CLICK HERE!
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In the days after Christmas, what is going on in your house? Are you cleaning, reflecting, or sleeping? Are you looking for places to put the new things you got and wondering why it takes so much preparation for a 2 hour event? Are you preparing for New Year's or simply back to work and routine?
I wonder what it was like for Mary and Joseph the days after Jesus' birth? The Bible doesn't say exactly what they experienced, but it does say that Mary pondered all the things and treasured them in her heart. She spent a great deal of time thinking. I imagine that they both simply looked at Jesus and were like, "can you believe this actually happened just like God said it would?"
When we look at the New Year and begin to think about goals and resolutions, do we truly believe that God has all the answers or do we honestly believe that we have to take responsibility for our success?
On Thursday night at 7:30PM EST I am going to teach on the 3 Simple Things. It will be on my Facebook page, so join me! https://www.facebook.com/IPDCoach
Let's take a look at how to become a different you in 2022!! See you then!
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I stood in line to get the party favor and when it was my turn, the host said, "I am so sorry. We just ran out of favors, but we are so glad you came! I will send you something if you will just put your name here on this paper."
Has this ever happened to you? Sure, you enjoyed the party or event, but somehow it feels funny not getting the little party favor.
When we accepted Christ, we were invited to the party! God gave us the Holy Spirit to live within us so we could experience a relationship with Him here on earth and receive blessings! Yet, what I believe we truly want, is we want God's favor. We not only want the Holy Spirit in us, but we want His spirit ON us. How do we do this?
In Luke 2:25 there is a man named Simeon who was "righteous and devout and had the Holy Spirit on Him". We can learn from Simeon. Each of us is freely given the Holy Spirit to dwell within us once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior. However, having the Holy Spirit ON us is a choice. Like Simeon, we must obey God's word, become obsessed with God's opinion, live a life pleasing to God, and never stop growing in our devotion to Him. Not necessarily easy, but absolutely doable.
If you want to live a life of favor...walking in peace and experiencing the miracles of heaven the way God wants you to, I want to help.
My book, All-In Paragon; Living a life by God's Design is available at this link and at bookstores everywhere.
If you want it, but can't afford it, please let me know. I would be happy to send you a copy.
I am also going to be doing a LIVE class starting on January 9, 2022 to teach the principles of the All-In Paragon and would love for you to be a part of it!
Here is the information link: ALL-IN Paragon LIVE ZOOM COURSE
My prayer is that my words are God's words coming through me in boldness and authenticity. Merry Christmas 2021! May you and your family be blessed!
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We have all been there. Changes in a our schedules and interruptions to our daily routine can get us out of our groove!
Over the past couple of weeks, between Thanksgiving and taking care of my granddaughter, I have found myself "out of my routine". I may have did it intentionally, but it still creates a bit of "where's my flow?"
As I watched my granddaughter, Lily, attempt to climb on her rocking horse, it made me think of how we can "fall off our horses" at times...we start a health journey and then there is a birthday cake...we start an exercise routine and we get sick...I am sure you know what it looks like! As Lily tried and tried to get on her horse without success, she became frustrated and threw herself down on the floor in a tantrum. It just wasn't working out. When she asked me for help, I was able to lift her and put her on her horse with ease. This is what our heavenly Father wants to do for us. He wants to help us if we would simply ask!
When life seems overwhelming, we simply need to stop and look for Him. He is right there beside us waiting to show us HOW to have peace in the storm. Reach out for Him and ask Him to show you what you need to do today to get closer to your goal? Who needs to be served? Lift your eyes to seek the one who can make all things possible. Matt. 19:26
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Instead of an activity, why not make it a way of life?
1-Start the day with God. You can get a window/mirror cling from the store on my website to help remind you!
You can also download this Daily Thought Organizer w/affirmations to help you stay focused!
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Intentional Prayer- Prayer request page on my website
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What are you thankful for? Turn complaining into praise and encouragement! (Ephesians 4:29)
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Take time to notice the details in God's creation!
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Serve and Give to others unconditionally. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
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Read the following from the Bible. What images of Christmas do you have that are not written here? The Birth of Jesus- Luke 2:1-20 2 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Interestingly enough, we don't read about a drummer boy. Probably because that story wasn't written as a song until 1941 by Katherine Kennicott Davis. Animals are not mentioned in the story (except possibly sheep in a nearby field). I don't see the decorations or Christmas Yet, our imaginations take us to a place different from what the Bible story depicts.
Let you imagination show you that it isn't so much about the gifts this season but about what is in one's heart. Don't worry so much about what you will buy someone. What about giving from what you already have...your time and talents? Clean their car or house! Babysit so the mom can get a much needed nap. Do yardwork or cook & deliver a dinner. Make a special batch of cookies. Do the laundry. Take time out to go for a walk. Memories and moments are more important than the price tag. If you have less to spend this year, think about humbling yourself to give from your heart instead of your wallet and experience the magic of Christmas the way it was supposed to be experienced!
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Saying no to another piece of cake or no to splurging on a purchase you don't need (but is on sale) can be difficult. Especially when you really want it! Why is it so hard to have self-control and self-discipline?
The world created the mess and we are just playing in it. The world says that we should practice self-care and do nice things for ourselves. So, if the second piece of cake makes you happy or using your credit card to buy that thing on sale gives you pleasure, just DO IT! The world says you have permission to take care of yourself and be happy. If you don't like it then leave it. If it doesn't make you happy, then don't do it.
Self-control (by the world's design) is one's ability to control their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors when tempted by something, in order to achieve an end goal. The world wants us to rely on our own abilities to accomplish things and it is a TRAP!
Self-control by God's design says that you are to GIVE UP and SURRENDER your ability to control your thoughts, emotions and behaviors and seek God's guidance and His will in all you do. Total opposite of the world.
You will find self-control & self-discipline in the Bible. You won't find "self-care", "self-worth", "self-esteem", "self-confidence" in the Bible. Why is that? It is because God knew we were already too focused on ourselves. This is why it is so important to focus on others and how others are feeling...seeking to understand before being understood...getting out of our own feelings, emotions, thoughts and desires.
Putting God first is the answer. You must stop before your start. Pause before you make any decision. Get God's opinion first. He is in charge. He knows what you should do. When you make this a priority, He builds you from the inside out and shows you how to have self-control and self-discipline...and then along the way, you will also begin to see your worth, value and how much He cares about you.
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Self-confidence is the problem. You don't need it. It really is messing you up and keeping you stuck. You have to keep starting over. Self-Confidences allows us to gain confidence in our abilities because our successes make us feel worthwhile, secure and significant. We feel good about ourselves until the day we don't. The moment we fail at something we were "good" at, we lose a bit of confidence. The comment from the person we respected causes us to doubt ourselves.
The only true confidence to seek and strive for is God Confidence. When we fully depend on God for every single thing and ask Him to guide and lead our every decision, and believe His word that He goes before us and plans our steps, we walk with a confidence that is unlike any other.
Our mission is seek and serve God in all things. Obedience to His word will show you His faithfulness. You will have a track record of all the times He came through for you and begin to trust and believe more in His truth. When you do this over and over you will develop God Confidence and you will move forward as if you know tomorrow's lottery numbers.
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Honestly, most of us are thinking about ourselves. Let's just be real. We are either thinking about how tomorrow will turn out , thinking about how we are feeling about tomorrow, thinking about what needs to be accomplished today, or possibly thinking about what the rest of the holiday season is going to look like...we are inside ourselves and our thoughts.
It is ok. It is 100% normal behavior for 99.9% of the world. The other 0.1% are focused on not following the normal. They are focused on not conforming to normal behaviors, but allowing God to change their thoughts from the inside out (Romans 12:2)
If you want to be among the 0.1% it isn't too late.
You can start right now to shift your thoughts on others.
Ask yourself what ONE thing you can do today to make a positive impact on someone else. Look for ways to encourage and lift up without increasing stress.
Instead of asking the typical questions, "Are you ready for the holidays?" or "How are you spending the holiday?" or "Who's cooking dinner this year?", you might say:
"Gosh, it is so good to see you! Will you be able to find time to relax over the next few days?" or, "Are you looking forward to getting some extra sleep on your day off?" Try to avoid holiday questions or family questions that can trigger a negative emotion. Assume they will be by themselves and let them share their plans, thoughts, etc. You keep asking questions based upon how they respond.
Encouraging someone to take a hot bath (or nap), to discuss a book you might be reading, or to take a walk in the fresh air etc.. gets the focus off of the holiday and creates a focus on the moment and on the person you are talking to.
Yes, the conversation may be longer than usual, but it's ok to slow the pace down to listen and serve.
Who knows? You might just hear a need and be able to fill it.
With this in mind, I wanted to let you know that I have a "Prayer Request" page on my website. You can find it here:
Prayer Request
Please let me know how I can pray for you this holiday season. I truly believe that prayer is powerful and effective! (James 5:16)
May your holiday be blessed and may you know how truly THANKFUL I am that you are a part of my life.
♥Carole
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Many years ago I wrote a song that talked about being a vessel of clay in God's hands. I had forgotten about it until last night when God reminded me of it. I looked for the words and couldn't find them. I remembered some of them and as I thought of the words I wrote so long ago, God showed me how even then He was forming me and my life into what it is today.
Isaiah 64:8 tells us that we are the clay and that we are a work of the potter's hand. Jeremiah 18:4 says that when something is wrong with the intended design, the potter is able to use the same clay to make something different. Sometimes, a potter, in order to make something better, he must break the hard clay into pieces to then add water and make it pliable and shapeable.
Are we willing to be used differently than we first thought? Are we willing to be broken into pieces to become all that God intends for us to be?
The chorus of the song I wrote is : Guide me, direct me, I am a vessel of clay. I long to be molded and shaped in your name. Teach me to trust you each and every day. Oh guide me, direct me, I am a vessel of clay.
May you speak this over your life and allow the Master potter to do His will in your life.
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Are you living on the edge of uncertainty? Do you fear what tomorrow will bring? Do you feel like there are no more solutions, resources or someone who can help? For most of us, the holidays bring on fears and anxiety. We fear overeating. We fear not having enough money for gifts. We fear how we will manage our schedules or when we will see family if we can't be together during the holidays. Our anxieties and worries are amplified and emphasized.
But what if we live on the edge of uncertainty with a certain God? What if no matter what we know that our tomorrow is all going to be ok? When we choose uncertainty based on a full dependence on God, things are not only better, there is peace and flow.
God calls us to give our plans to Him and then focus on our daily obedience. When we call upon God to show us and direct our daily decisions, actions and thoughts, He will respond to us. If we seek Him, He will respond and He will reward! Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
Take time to focus on the moment and make a memory. Make the holidays about serving others, not serving food. Focus less on the stuff around us and the stuffing for the turkey and pay more attention to what God is saying to you. His word fills us when we are at our emptiest!
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Everyone wants to know the future. We are curious! We play the games that predict who we will marry, what our kids will look like and what our future home will be. We read the horoscopes and consider the possibilities. But do we truly know what God says about predictions, prophecy and what our future holds?
The world says it can be both good or bad. God says that when He speaks into your life through His word or through another person it is meant to strengthen, encourage and comfort you. This means a "bad" prediction isn't from Him. (1 Corinthians 14:3)
Take the time to enter into His presence daily with respect. Value your time with Him. Ask Him to speak into your life and tell you what you need to learn, where you need to grow and if something needs to change. He will speak into your life through His word and send people into your life that will lift you and encourage you.
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- What do I need to learn?
- Where do I need to grow?
- What needs to change?
These are the 3 questions I ask God before I start my day. I don't always get an answer right away, but I keep seeking Him. (Deut. 4:29-31) As long as I have a restless spirit, I know that I am not aligned with God correctly or He is trying to teach me something. It is my job to keep seeking His answer.
This week I started out with some doubts and fears...an unsettled spirit. I wasn't sure why and could not quite understand what God was trying to tell me. I kept asking until, in the midst of cleaning my kitchen, I heard "respect and growth". The time it took to hear Him may have simply been my worldly beliefs that were blocking His message. As I researched these words in scripture, God gave me specific scriptures to review. Titus 2:7 and Luke 14:10 were for respect and Job 8:7, Galatians 6:9 and Proverbs 1:5 were for growth. It became clear to me that God intends to grow my business but I need to tighten up some of my systems and get even better at modeling scripture in action. I need to be humble and not jump to the head table until I am invited. I need to wait on His leading and not give up my efforts. I need to increase in my learning- dig more into scripture and surround myself with individuals who give me guidance and instruction.
My peace returned. I know what I must do.
Our world will always present us with challenges, trials and pressures. God is the eye of the storm. He is your shelter and refuge! Do not stop seeking Him because He will be faithful. The time it takes for us to hear His voice depends on how loud the noise of the world is. The more we spend time with Him, the easier it is to hear His voice. This journey is different for everyone.
Do not stop too soon. Do not stop until you are in peace. Keep seeking and going to scripture. www.openbible.info/topics
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For many, the holidays trigger negative emotions, stress and anxiety. There is a focus on lack, loss and increased commercialism that pushes us to feel overwhelmed. We know we shouldn't fall prey to the "should" mentality...but yet we do. Our focus is more on how we are feeling about things than what the true meaning of the season is about. The world, like a door, gives us 2 options- we can either push or pull. Neither option leaves us feeling much different.
God, however, offers us a different choice. We can either stay in struggle or experience peace. We can accept our circumstances and say "it is as good as can be expected" or embrace a "better than expected" joy! It almost feels more like a magic trick because of our deep rooted belief in the lies we have been told for so many years. Yet, when we stop and replace our thoughts and ideas with God's words, change happens.
Take time today to spread good cheer to others and take the focus off of self. Give out smiles! Hand out bible verses or positive words written on paper. Sneak a note, a starbucks card or some other special thing into someone's pocket or purse. Think only good thoughts of others. You never know what they are dealing with.
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Crazy? Unbelievable? I don't think so.
This morning I woke up not feeling 100%...wanting to just pull the covers back up and stay in bed. Call out sick...and just not do the day. Thoughts of all the things that I had to do and things that could potentially happen started racing through my head. I was feeling less and less like moving by the minute. Do you know what I am talking about? The pressure on your chest that says, "you can't?" The overwhelming weight of bills and laundry and whatever else you can think of...
NOT TODAY, Devil. You don't get to steal from me before I even have it. You don't get to decide my day.
I started to pay attention to my breath. God in. God out. God in. God out. Then, the most incredible thing happened.
God not only answered me and moved me from the bed to my day, but gave me a message for the next time this happens. Call 463.
Listen and be blessed. ♥
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Leadership is not easy. To lead you must be followed. Being followed means that people respect, like, or admire what you are doing. Leaders that force followers through tactics of intimidation are not respected, they are feared. However, leaders who pause to reflect before acting, consider another's point of view or interest and remain focused on long term results are trusted.
Consider the ocean. When the ocean is powerful, we see it. The waves are tossed about and water is spitting all over. However, we don't see an undercurrent because the surface remains calm and peaceful. The undercurrent is by far more powerful than the visible waves. The patient leader is the undercurrent! This leader instills trust, respect and a sense of calm. The powerful leader only instills fear and gets short term results in response.
Consider your leadership. Consider the way you get results. Pausing before acting is always best. Considering your words and how they will affect another person are important. Asking God for help is always best. Let Him lead and guide you and learn how to become both powerful and patient!
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Our personal values drive our behaviors. However, sometimes our behaviors contradict our values. When we make conscious decisions that go against our values, we create challenges in our relationship with God and our relationship with people.
Luke 6:31 tells us to treat others the way we want to be treated. Sometimes we think, "this isn't hurting anyone, so, it's ok". We may say it's ok to lie to our spouse and say the shoes were on sale or keep the extra the cashier accidentally gives us as change...but we don't like it when it is done to us. We get upset when someone lies to us and we find out or when we don't get the $1 back we were supposed to get...we feel cheated. So, it never is ok to consciously do the wrong thing!
If you make a mistake, try to correct it. If you can't correct it, then work to not do it again. The key is to consistently work to please God and to be scripture in action. Trust God when the decision is difficult and goes against human opinion. It may not always be easy, but it is doable.
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True friendship is hard to find- especially in today's busy world...but I believe God wants us to have true friends. Proverbs 27:17 tells us that iron sharpens iron and one man sharpens another. Do we work to be both sweet and tangy in our relationships? Are we the type of friend that we love? Are we honest without finding fault? Are we dedicated without being demanding? Do we give to another what we want for ourselves?
Consider asking God how to be a better friend and how to find friends that will strengthen you in your faith. Focus on helping someone be better, but always work to be better yourself. Encourage and lift up. Pray and be thankful. Send a note in the mail or buy the favorite coffee....spend time listening when you would rather be doing something else. Work to be both sweet and tangy...because honestly, those are the friends we typically appreciate the most.
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We all have problems. We could have the same problem or we could have different ones, but we all have them. Some have money issues, others have relationship challenges or health ailments. Some of us battle depression, stress and worry. Some of us have ALL these issues.
What do we do? We seek help. We join groups and buy programs. We google for information and advice. However, most of the time, the ideas we get only work for a period of time or don't work at all.
My role as a coach is to give you directions, not advice. Sure, I might send you to a specific scripture or point you to a specific idea, but ultimately, you are the one who makes the decision. I think that all my clients will agree that I will always point them back in the direction of asking God what He says. What God tells me is not what God tells you. We are all different children and He knows what each of us need.
James 1:5 tells us that if we ask for wisdom we will get it. No questions asked. I can tell you this, but it is YOU that must be willing to ask. I can't ask for you.
God does the how and you do the do...or you don't. The choice is yours.
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The world wants us to believe that more is better, faster is easier and the one with the most toys wins! God tells us that if we seek Him in even the most mundane things, ask Him the silliest of questions He will guide us through! He says that more of HIM is better, His timing is perfect, and the one with the most faith wins!
Our goal should always be about the message and not the messenger! If something distracts us or others from the message, let's change it! God will provide a way. He looks at our hearts, not our outward appearance. However, we live in a world where our image and our appearance do make a difference in our message. God knows this and will provide for this.
Going without isn't God's plan for us. Living with less does not please Him. What matters is whether we desire to honor God with our wealth or our wealth makes us feel more honorable. He just wants us to ask Him before we spend and obey His answer. Trust that what He wants to give us is better than what we want or think we need and make a decision to submit to His authority.
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Today God spoke through me and shared words He wants you to hear. (And it isn't about my wild hair...that was just to get your attention!)
I am stepping out in boldness. I pray what you hear is a blessing. He wants you to have heart knowledge and not just head knowledge. Being able to speak and repeat scripture does not mean you are experiencing it. God doesn't want to be a part of what we are doing. He wants us to pay attention to what He is doing.
Seek His will for your day, life, relationship, money, time, career, etc. He may not always give you what you want but He will always give you what you need.
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Have you ever wanted to just flee the country? Run away to an island somewhere and just forget the worries of the day? I know I have! Sometimes, the stuff we deal with...the pressures of life...are just too much. Job felt it. (Job 3:11) David felt it. (Psalm 55:6-8) Elijah felt it too. (1 Kings 19)
The world tells us to focus on the positive! It tells us that we must control our emotions and feelings. We are made to feel like we must not be doing it right if we are experiencing overwhelm and challenge. STOP!
God asks us to give him our worries, troubles, fears, anxieties, etc. He doesn't expect us to do it by ourselves! True joy is a gift from God. We can't get it by ourselves. We have to turn and take it from God's hands.
1- Stop negating, ignoring and avoiding the difficulties. Recognize it. Face it. Define it.
2-PAUSE and ask God about it.
3-Look up the word, phrase, feeling or idea in www.openbible.info/topics
4-Read through the scriptures and ask God what He wants you to learn, where you need to grow and what needs to change?
5-Speak over your life, your feelings, your thoughts, etc....until you feel peace.
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Do you sometimes misunderstand what someone texts you or emails you? Have you misread a message sent to you by someone? We all have bias and the way we receive messages depends on our perspective and mood at the time!
God's word is very clear, concise and descriptive. You really can't get it wrong...unless you want to. But, sometimes we interpret scripture with a bit of bias. We want to rationalize it or make it conform to our way of thinking. When we do this, I think God might be saying, "no, that isn't what I meant!"
2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." God doesn't say one thing in one scripture and then the opposite somewhere else. It all matches up. The meaning doesn't change.
What verses do you misread? Are you looking at the context or just pulling out the verse and using it the way you want to? Look at the verses before and after...look at various translations...Ask God to reveal His meaning and truth to you. In this way you will be getting his message loud and clear!
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Today is a day when many counties, cities, & towns vote for council members, mayors and other leaders. Who do we vote for as one who seeks a life by God's design?
Is the leader power hungry or propelled by God's power?
- Do they seek to have all the information and get angry if they don't?
- Do they only hire or keep those who agree with them?
- Do they mostly spend time with those who can help them achieve greater success?
- Do they seek out the weaknesses of others or tear down those who disagree with them?
- Do they try to defame the character of their competition?
- Do they continually boast of their accomplishments?
- Do they look for ways to increase their influence by any means necessary?
- Do they use their title and status more than their name?
- Do they care more about what the crowd of strangers thinks of them vs. their own family?
- Do they spend more time building connections with the public vs. strengthening their own personal relationships?
What if you are faced with a crisis of neither is the "best" choice?
Look for courage, conviction and patience. Seek someone who is more interested in understanding vs being understood and who questions before suggesting!
Get God's opinion. Isaiah 30:21 (ESV) says, "Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying 'this is the way, walk in it.'"
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We all have experienced FOMO (Fear of missing out) at some point in our lives. We may have been pressured to order something or do something because we didn't want to miss out on a special deal or sale or promotion. Most of the time, FOMO creates anxiety and envy. What does GOD say about these things? When you have a fear of mission out, you are simply saying, "God, I don't trust you." Do you want to say this?
Are you overly consumed with what others say about you? Do you believe that people, things, situations, money, status, etc., is what can make you happy? Do your emotions change depending upon the situation, the news you receive or the status you have? You are experiencing FOMO.
What about FOMO being FAITH OTHERS MOVE ON! Faith in God, service to others, and move on! Move on and move away from wanting what someone else has or what you think you need? Ask God for His plan for you.
Learning to trust and believe in God's word takes intentional focus and takes time. You will either experience FOMO of the world or you will keep missing out on the blessings that are already yours. It is your choice!
Hebrews 10:23 (MSG) says, "So let’s do it—full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out. Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching."
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Should a Christian celebrate Halloween or not? I get questions like this all the time. Do I listen to this music? Participate in this group? Get the vaccine? Read this book? etc... My answer is always the same. Does whatever you are deciding about draw you into a deeper relationship with God and a greater dependence on Him or does it pull you toward self, world and people? It is a choice you must make.
Do people see the Bible in action when they pass by your home or is it the world in motion? Are you seeking man's approval or God's?
1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV) says, "But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."
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Time to lighten up! It is hard not to laugh at a baby with uncontrollable giggles! Sometimes the silliest of jokes will make us laugh! When life hands us lemons, make lemonade! Laughing in the face of adversity changes things! Proverbs 31:25 (NIV) says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
What can you laugh about today instead of cry? Where can you find the humor in a situation to soften the seriousness? Find joy in your situation and take your eyes off the problem. See your problems like a child would…laugh at the dropped milk!
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When we are faced with pressures from all around, we tend to start sorting the levels of pressure and the priority of action steps. We get focused on the challenges with even more intention and purpose. Unfortunately, this method is the fastest way to spiral downward and out of control.
Rather then allow ourselves to do this, we must pause and focus on God's promises. James 1:2-4 (ESV) "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Stop praying to God while you are thinking about other things. Focus on Him and allow Him to work through your challenges. Perseverance is one of God's many blessings. He will sustain you. Allow His word to simmer in your pressure cooker and walk in peace.
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You may be the only Bible that someone reads. Do you want them to see anger, resentment, hurt and frustration in you or would you prefer they see peace, gentleness and self-control? When your trust is betrayed or you are disrespected, are you quick to forgive or do you simmer in your feelings? As Jesus hung on the cross after being beaten, rejected, spit on and verbally attacked, he said, "Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing!" (Luke 23:34)
Forgiveness as a leader is as necessary to survival as breathing. Pray this prayer- Father forgive them. They don't know what they are doing. Strengthen me through your word. Soften my heart to give undeserved grace and at the same time, build a wall of protection around it! Turn to God instead of your feelings and forgive when you feel like running away. Breathe faith, hope and confidence into those who have hurt you and allow God to bless your obedience.
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Did you fill in the blank with "me"? Is this a motto you live by? Do you think that in order to have what you want you must believe in yourself to make it happen? Are you self-reliant or God-dependent?
Our lives are an open book test. Are we looking up the answers or relying on what we already know? Are we trying to blend what we have learned from the world with what God says?
If you want something done right, STOP! Do not try to do it yourself! Pause and surrender. Admit you are weak, have no power and are unable to do anything without God.
Jeremiah 17:5-6 (ERV)says, "This is what the Lord says: “Bad things will happen to those who put their trust in people. Bad things will happen to those who depend on human strength. That is because they have stopped trusting the Lord. They are like a bush in a desert where no one lives. It is in a hot and dry land. It is in bad soil. That bush does not know about the good things that God can give. "
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How strong is your desire to sit at God's head table and hear, "well done, my good and faithful servant!"
Sacrificing our wants and desires isn't easy but it is doable when you have a willingness to serve God with all your heart. Making difficult choices and walking away from your vision to step into God's vision doesn't always feel comfortable.
When we give up our goals and follow after God, it can be challenging. At first, it may even feel like you are going backwards. The enemy will try to scare you into thinking you are going to miss out on rewards and recognition. Don't fall for that lie.
Deuteronomy 30:8-11 tells us that when we obey God, we step into blessings we never knew would exist. While it may be difficult, He tells us that it is not "TOO DIFFICULT".
Take the risk. Walk into the unknown. Leave your reputation, your sleep, you need to "fit in" with the crowd and GO! Watch how God turns it into your biggest win!
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Do you find yourself questioning whether it is God or you?
When you "hear" from God are you able to check it against the Bible? God won't contradict His word. Are you going over and over and over it in your mind? God doesn't obsess with the problem or situation. He wants us to speak to the problem! Are you fearing what you will lose out on or miss having or are you fearing the risk of uncertainty? The enemy will want to keep you thinking you will lose out, God wants you to trust Him! The world's answer to the question will make you doubt, fear rejection and make you obsess on the problem. God's answer brings peace. God never operates in confusion. Are you looking for God's approval or man's?
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Do you sweat the small stuff? Do you find yourself losing your patience from your kids being kids? Do you get anxious when you haven't yet heard back from the Dr.'s office or the job interview? Or, could you be like I was the other day when my husband came home and I was cleaning up a mess....
What is most important to you? Proverbs 14:29 says "Patience leads to an abundant understanding but impatience leads to stupid mistakes!" Romans 15:1 (MSG) gives us a way..."Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, “How can I help?”
When we feel ourselves getting to that point of overwhelm and frustration, let's remember to pause and pull from our strength....looking for ways to serve others instead of stir up conflict!
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Many of us have a superficial knowledge of the Bible. We know stories and concepts and have a few scriptures memorized. However, if you don't internalize and apply the information, there isn't any meaningful connection made and it remains superficial and without significance. Take time to not only read scripture but use it to change the way you are thinking and feeling! When you have profound knowledge of a concept or idea, things begin to change.
Don't rush change. Go at it one step a time!
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We have all either heard or participated in gossip. It is fun. It is interesting. We all like to be "in the know". However, gossip is a sure way to ruin your reputation and integrity.
Proverbs 18:7-8 tells us that rumors are "tasty morsels" and that the mouth gets you into trouble.
Proverbs 21:23 tells us to keep our mouth shut and we will stay out of trouble.
If you hear yourself saying, "please keep this between you and I" or "can you keep a secret?" or someone asks you these questions, stop the conversation. Don't receive or give any information. Let it lie. Stop and keep your mouth closed.
Bottom line is this. If you would not want your words broadcast on the 6 o'clock news, don't let them come out of your mouth. (Proverbs 20:19)
Use your words to praise God and encourage and edify others. Lift up rather than tear down. (James 3:2-12)
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Fear paralyzes where faith mobilizes! Fear stops you in your tracks, but faith moves you forward! Following God is risky business. Fear won't allow you take risks. What fears do you have? Do you fear cancer, death and dying? Do you fear losing a job, your finances or your relationship? Do you fear failure in your business or never having enough? Whatever you fear, if you focus on that you will lose your vision and you will take your eyes off of the One who holds your peace. Psalm 56:3 says, "whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you." Do you spend enough time with God that you would recognize Him, trust Him and believe Him if you saw Him? Keep stretching and taking steps in faith.
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Change is happening all around us.
What doesn't change? God never changes. (Malachi 3:6) His love never changes.(Psalm 136:26) His word never changes. (Matt. 24:35. Isaiah 40:8) His purpose never changes. (Psalm 33:11) And, most importantly, His promises never change. (Hebrews 6:17-18)
P- Is your position firmly planted in the word of God or in your comfort zone?
I- Where do you get your information?
V- What is the vision you hold on to?
O- Do you see and obstacle or an opportunity? (Ephesians 4:14)
T- Take Action! What action do you take? Do you seize the opportunity and become spiritually grounded in immovable faith? (1 Cor. 15:58)
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We depend on so many things. We depend on our phones to work, our internet to be connected and secure, our cars to start, our partners to be there for us, etc...But what happens when something happens?
What happens when the battery dies, the car breaks down, the person we relied on breaks our trust?
In most situations, God is the last resort when we have tried everything else. We don't depend on God for everything. We take most things for granted until something happens and then we end up blaming God for it... we ask, "couldn't He have kept it from happening?"
Depending on God takes an intentional effort. It isn't our natural response. We get angry, frustrated and overwhelmed because we didn't go to God first with the issue. If we would simply seek Him first, and dig into His word, while He may not give us all the answers, He will give us enough information so we can be in peace. God does the how and you do the do. ♥
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Why is it so hard to follow God's will for our lives?
Why do we get tired of being obedient?
Why do we want to control the outcomes?
Why do we lose patience in the process?
Romans 12:2 (ESV) says, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Our brains can hold a lot of information, but when the information is at war (worldly beliefs contradicting God's word) we become overwhelmed, exhausted and depressed. It is just too much. We try to hold on to what we know without letting go and letting God's word replace it. My friend, the overwhelm, pressure and exhaustion is God's hand on your life. He is molding and shaping you. He is pruning away the parts that are holding you back. You must make a choice to embrace it or retreat. What will you choose?
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Rejection is part of life. There was no one more rejected than Jesus. In fact, many of us are in positions, like Jesus, that make us targets for rejection and disapproval. How do you handle it? Do you point fingers and blame? Do you withdraw and sink into the background? When you feel "less than", are you shaken? Do you feel trampled on by others? No matter how much you were rejected, ignored, or mistreated, you have the ability for a "reset" and a "do-over"! God shows us how to achieve the renewal of our minds...but we must do the do. It takes daily, intentional effort. When we feel that feeling of "less than" from our past, we must see it as another signal coming from God's lane departure warning system. We are out of alignment with His word. Seek Him. It is the hardest work you will ever do, but it is the most rewarding.
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Does frustration upset you or inspire you? When you hit red lights on the way to work or get to the store to find out the item you need is out of stock, do you complain about it for hours and with everyone you know? Do you justify your frustrations to give them credibility or do you honestly seek to understand the other perspective? What if you embraced and welcomed frustrations instead of seeing them as an annoyance? What might you learn? Where might you grow? What might change?
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Passive responses rarely compel you to take action. Powerful responses inspire you and propel you into action! Does scripture cause you take action or is it more of a sentiment, thought or idea that causes you to reflect, but changes nothing? Living a life by God's design requires application and practice of God's word. Philippians 4:9 reminds us that scripture should be SEEN in our actions. Can people read scripture through your actions? Are you powerful or passive?
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Feelings always follow actions.
We typically follow this cycle: Thought-feeling-action. Instead, why not try: Thought-action-feeling.
Staying convicted to the right action takes intentional effort. Physical: 1 Corinthians 6:19- Our body is a temple Career/Business: Colossians 3:23- Work as if God is your CEO Money: Genesis 9:3- God is our provision Spiritual: Joshua 1:8- Meditate on scripture day/night and be obedient to it. Personal: 2 Corinthians 10:5- Capture every thought and bring it into obedience to Christ. Let God help you change your thoughts so you take the right action and ultimately change the way you feel. ♥
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Limitations are a byproduct of imitations. When you are "plagiarizing" someone else you aren't impressing God at all. Can you tell the difference between the real and the fake? Others can too. When you lack authenticity in your words and actions, you lack credibility. Galatians 6:4 (MSG) says, "Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life."
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When tragedy strikes, we ask God, "why"? Our human limitations do not allow us to see the full picture or plan. Questions are expected when there is uncertainty or unknown situations that arise. God expects the questions, but He also expects us to trust Him.
Hebrews 11:6 (Living Bible) says, "You can never please God without faith, without depending on him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely look for him."
It is ok to ask why. He expects it. However, when we ask, we must not only believe IN God we must believe God and what He says.
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Do you strive for external approval and recognition or do you seek God's whisper of "well done!"
John 5:41-44 (MSG) says,“I’m not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God’s love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms. How do you expect to get anywhere with God when you spend all your time jockeying for position with each other, ranking your rivals and ignoring God?"
So, how do we find our internal applause? How do we know the difference?
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An expectation is thought to be a “desired outcome”, but it actually is a pre-meditated bitterness or resentment. Having clear expectations doesn't always mean it will work out. Creating expectations that benefit you and the other (s) involved is key to a successful result. Relying on God instead of man is the daily goal. When your perceptions and beliefs align with His, things change.
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Do you micro-manage or do you empower? Are you afraid of failing or of letting someone else fail? Failure is never fatal. If it was, Jesus would not have chosen Peter to be in charge of building the church. (Matthew 16:18) Here are some practical ways we can empower others!
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Stress is often considered negative and harmful to our health. However, when we take our stress to God first (Matthew 6:33) it can propel us into creative action! Internalizing stress leads to a focus on self. This focus creates fear, worry, anxiety, etc. Let's discover how to turn our stress into energy that moves us to positive action! Serve God, serve others, make an impact and change lives!
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The enemy is on the prowl looking for anyone he can devour! (1 Peter 5:8) Will you let him? The enemy wants you to focus on what you don't have or what you could miss out on, so you must hold on to your vision and the promises of God. Get up and FIGHT! The enemy has no authority over you or your life!
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Building relationships is a vital part of growing a successful business. Yet, the motivation behind making these connections is the most important. Great relationship builders are good at 3 things. 1- Asking questions 2-Active Listening 3-Finding a need and filling it. Let's get to building!
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When someone decides to put their trust and belief in you and in your business, it is up to you to make them feel secure in their decision. Your actions, decisions and words make the difference. How do we ensure we are building the right foundation?
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The world's bank of confidence will always give you insufficient funds. Just affirming, visualizing and practicing does not guarantee you will achieve confidence. In addition, not living in your gift, ability or competence is why it is a challenge to gain confidence and success. Let's talk about this!
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The entrepreneur DNA is made up of 4 things: Competence, Confidence, Credibility and Connections. In this episode we talk about competence and why education, practice and focused determination are not necessarily the best methods to achieve it.
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Tony Robbins said that "success leaves clues". The world will make it seem like finding someone who has or has done what you want to have or accomplish is the fastest and easiest way to make it happen. Let's explore the myths and realities of this common theory and consider the truth behind success!
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Proverbs 18:16 tells us that our gift will make room for us and bring us before great men. Leaning into your strengths increases your opportunities. Do you want more? Increase the amount of time you spend on those things that you are good at and watch how God opens up doors for you! ♥
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We all have used slang at one point or another. It makes you sound "cool, chill, dope"... Using slang serves a social purpose and helps us to "fit in" to the crowd around us. Yet, we are called to stand out. The Lord thy God is one God! Alleluia!
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Our habits shape us and determine the results we experience. The world is full of well meaning mentors and coaches who share their thoughts on habits that create successful lives.
However, there is only ONE valid habit that will deliver on the promise of success and prosperity. It is found in Joshua 1:8. "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."
When we make this one habit a priority we will see change.
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Life right now is full of discouragement. We have challenges and difficulties like never before. Money issues, relationships, physical illness and physical mess and disorder are pushing us more into self. 1 Peter 2:11 (MSG) says, "Friends, this world is not your home, so don’t make yourselves cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. Live an exemplary life in your neighborhood so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they’ll be won over to God’s side and be there to join in the celebration when he arrives." The way to fight discouragement is by encouraging others.
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For most of us there is a point when we look in the mirror and ask ourselves if what we are doing is "all there is". In this episode I discuss the differences between a career/job and a calling/purpose. Begin today to fully rely on God and discover your purpose!
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