From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
Psalm 119:105
'Have you ever chosen a certain path, only to find yourself regretting that decision later? Life consists of a series of choices, some as small as what to eat for dinner, and others with eternal impact.
Facing these crossroads can seem overwhelming, but Scripture offers guidelines to give us confidence and direction. Therefore, as decisions are imminent, we should keep the following in mind:
First, God promises wisdom to His children who ask with faith (James 1:5-6). His Spirit also resides within believers and is available for guidance. Too many Christians try to weigh the pros and cons themselves, and they miss out on the magnificent help from the all-knowing One.
Second, we should delve into the Bible, asking God to open our eyes to His truth and His way. The Lord promises that His Word never returns void (Isa. 55:11). He will bring the truth to our minds at the appropriate time.
Third, we are wise to be aware of our mental state as we approach decisions. The acronym "H.A.L.T." stands for hungry, angry, lonely, and tired—four states in which we will likely make poor choices. It is well worth waiting until a better time when considering options.
Our choices determine our direction, so consider carefully how you make decisions. Scripture is clear that we see dimly (1 Cor. 13:12); God alone sees the "whole picture." It is vital, therefore, to rely upon His wisdom, truth, and direction every time we select an option before us.
Winners tap into the 'Ultimate Consultant' when making decisions.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Multiplication
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'Leaders expand their work by multiplication, not just by addition.
An experienced leader is always on the lookout for a talented newcomer. Leaders know they are limited by time and space to meet all the needs of the organization. Adding an additional worker may not be enough, however. New teams will have to be formed. New workers will have to be recruited.
One of the first lessons of leadership is that one person cannot do everything. But everything that needs to be accomplished can be accomplished through the recruitment, training, and empowering of others.
Every leader's goal should be to train his or her replacement. The organization's effectiveness depends on multiplying its leadership.
It's simple arithmetic. "You take over here, and I'll start a new team over there." What's the result? "Yesterday there were ten of us. Tomorrow there'll be twenty." How will that affect the organization? "Yesterday we could only do this much, because there were so few of us. Today and tomorrow we can do that much, because there are more of us."
Leaders spend time recruiting leaders.'
Leaders multiply their effectiveness by training potential leaders.
'Leaders expand their work by multiplication, not just by addition.
An experienced leader is always on the lookout for a talented newcomer. Leaders know they are limited by time and space to meet all the needs of the organization. Adding an additional worker may not be enough, however. New teams will have to be formed. New workers will have to be recruited.
One of the first lessons of leadership is that one person cannot do everything. But everything that needs to be accomplished can be accomplished through the recruitment, training, and empowering of others.
Every leader's goal should be to train his or her replacement. The organization's effectiveness depends on multiplying its leadership.
It's simple arithmetic. "You take over here, and I'll start a new team over there." What's the result? "Yesterday there were ten of us. Tomorrow there'll be twenty." How will that affect the organization? "Yesterday we could only do this much, because there were so few of us. Today and tomorrow we can do that much, because there are more of us."
Leaders spend time recruiting leaders.'
Leaders multiply their effectiveness by training potential leaders.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Believe in Yourself
From the book 365 Inspirations for a Great Life, by Lynda Field:
"If you believe that you can do a thing, or if you believe you cannot, in either case you are right." - Henry Ford
'And there you have it in a nutshell. You are what you believe you are and you will become whatever you expect to become - the choice is yours!
If you always take passive, submissive and receptive roles and never expect the best for yourself, then your life will always feel like a B movie.
Increase your self-expectations - you really can do more, be more and create more. Trust your judgement and believe in yourself.'
Winners believe that they are winners.
"If you believe that you can do a thing, or if you believe you cannot, in either case you are right." - Henry Ford
'And there you have it in a nutshell. You are what you believe you are and you will become whatever you expect to become - the choice is yours!
If you always take passive, submissive and receptive roles and never expect the best for yourself, then your life will always feel like a B movie.
Increase your self-expectations - you really can do more, be more and create more. Trust your judgement and believe in yourself.'
Winners believe that they are winners.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Do You Know Who You Are?
From the Today God Is First devotionals (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'Someone once said, "Success is when those who know you the best are those who love you the most."
Years ago a self-assessment tool was developed by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingram called the Johari window. The Johari Window helps us realize where we are in our ability to know who we are and for others to know who we are. Real transparency in communication takes place when those we associate with know who we are after we discover who we really are. See if you can identify what category you might fall among these four:
Transparent Life - The transparent life is the life we should desire. I know who I am and others know me. There is nothing hidden. I have come to know who I am as an individual and basically people get what they see in me.
Bull-In-The-China Shop - This person is blinded to the things that others recognize about him. The solution to becoming a transparent person is to get feedback from those around us about the blind spots in our personality. We must ask for the feedback and be willing to respond to their input.
Aloof/Hidden Secrets - This person lives in a secret world. They don't allow others to know about themselves. They know themselves but are fearful of letting others know. Those around them do not know them either. What do others really know about you? Have you allowed yourself to get close enough to others to share who you really are inside?
Hidden Potential - This is a combination of Bull-In-A-China Shop and Aloof/Hidden Secrets. It is the saddest of all conditions. These people don't know themselves and others don't know them either. This means both parties have to invest the energy to communicate and get feedback from one another.
How about you? Why not take a step to find out who you really are in the eyes of others. It could change your life.'
Winners know who they are and are transparent to others as well.
'Someone once said, "Success is when those who know you the best are those who love you the most."
Years ago a self-assessment tool was developed by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingram called the Johari window. The Johari Window helps us realize where we are in our ability to know who we are and for others to know who we are. Real transparency in communication takes place when those we associate with know who we are after we discover who we really are. See if you can identify what category you might fall among these four:
Transparent Life - The transparent life is the life we should desire. I know who I am and others know me. There is nothing hidden. I have come to know who I am as an individual and basically people get what they see in me.
Bull-In-The-China Shop - This person is blinded to the things that others recognize about him. The solution to becoming a transparent person is to get feedback from those around us about the blind spots in our personality. We must ask for the feedback and be willing to respond to their input.
Aloof/Hidden Secrets - This person lives in a secret world. They don't allow others to know about themselves. They know themselves but are fearful of letting others know. Those around them do not know them either. What do others really know about you? Have you allowed yourself to get close enough to others to share who you really are inside?
Hidden Potential - This is a combination of Bull-In-A-China Shop and Aloof/Hidden Secrets. It is the saddest of all conditions. These people don't know themselves and others don't know them either. This means both parties have to invest the energy to communicate and get feedback from one another.
How about you? Why not take a step to find out who you really are in the eyes of others. It could change your life.'
Winners know who they are and are transparent to others as well.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
The Power of Three
From the book Work Less, Make More, by Jennifer White:
Anyone at any time can put only focus and energy behind three things. Three projects. Three big ideas. When you really put your passion behind three things, amazing results show up. Miraculous things. You're building momentum that allows you to get results faster than you do when you're juggling a multitude of things. Momentum is the key here.
The Power of Three is the ultimate in concentration of power. The Power of Three actually frees up time. Instead of stretching you thinner, focus keeps you from overextending yourself. It allows you to give more hours to the few things that matter the most. In an overly complex world, simplicity is the key.
How to Design Your Life Around Three >> Eliminate - Delegate - Automate
Eliminate - It simply means DON'T DO IT. I believe at least 50 percent of what's on your list doesn't need to get done. Dump everything and anything you can. Be brutal with this. Experiment with not doing something and see if anyone notices. If they don't notice, it wasn't important.
Delegate - You must delegate everything but your brilliance. Yes, everything. The key to delegating is you're giving the responsibility of getting something done to someone besides yourself. Delegation is about ridding yourself of your weaknesses and letting someone else handle them. Delegate - don't dump. Delegate only if you're developed a frequent reporting process. Delegate to the right person.
Automate - In this world of ever-changing technology, it's vital for you to start using automation. Once you've eliminated everything you can, and once you've delegated everything you can, it's time to improve your systems so your computer does the work for you.
Winners pay close attention to the Power of Three.
Anyone at any time can put only focus and energy behind three things. Three projects. Three big ideas. When you really put your passion behind three things, amazing results show up. Miraculous things. You're building momentum that allows you to get results faster than you do when you're juggling a multitude of things. Momentum is the key here.
The Power of Three is the ultimate in concentration of power. The Power of Three actually frees up time. Instead of stretching you thinner, focus keeps you from overextending yourself. It allows you to give more hours to the few things that matter the most. In an overly complex world, simplicity is the key.
How to Design Your Life Around Three >> Eliminate - Delegate - Automate
Eliminate - It simply means DON'T DO IT. I believe at least 50 percent of what's on your list doesn't need to get done. Dump everything and anything you can. Be brutal with this. Experiment with not doing something and see if anyone notices. If they don't notice, it wasn't important.
Delegate - You must delegate everything but your brilliance. Yes, everything. The key to delegating is you're giving the responsibility of getting something done to someone besides yourself. Delegation is about ridding yourself of your weaknesses and letting someone else handle them. Delegate - don't dump. Delegate only if you're developed a frequent reporting process. Delegate to the right person.
Automate - In this world of ever-changing technology, it's vital for you to start using automation. Once you've eliminated everything you can, and once you've delegated everything you can, it's time to improve your systems so your computer does the work for you.
Winners pay close attention to the Power of Three.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Avoid Internet Takeover
From the book Simple Secrets for Becoming Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, by David Niven:
'People have a confusing relationship with the Internet. We very much like to log on and twirl around the Web, check our email, and instant message with friends. But when we shut our computer down, we often feel that we wasted too much time online. The reason is that Internet use for short periods is a mood stimulant, but for long periods it is actually a mood depressant.
Psychologists advise that you decide how much time you are going to spend using the Internet before you log on.
"On the surface, a computer game may seem completely harmless. Sending an instant message may seem harmless. But when it becomes a substitution for life, for human contact, then you have to look at it from a different perspective.
What's so attractive about going online is that the problems of real life go away for a moment. But, of course, it doesn't solve those problems. In fact, if the Internet is consuming great quantities of time then that is creating new problems for people."
Recurring long periods of personal Internet use were associated with 28 percent lower life satisfaction.'
Winners avoid Internet takeover.
In general, winners control their use of technology to optimize efficiency and manage their time; they don't let technology control them.
'People have a confusing relationship with the Internet. We very much like to log on and twirl around the Web, check our email, and instant message with friends. But when we shut our computer down, we often feel that we wasted too much time online. The reason is that Internet use for short periods is a mood stimulant, but for long periods it is actually a mood depressant.
Psychologists advise that you decide how much time you are going to spend using the Internet before you log on.
"On the surface, a computer game may seem completely harmless. Sending an instant message may seem harmless. But when it becomes a substitution for life, for human contact, then you have to look at it from a different perspective.
What's so attractive about going online is that the problems of real life go away for a moment. But, of course, it doesn't solve those problems. In fact, if the Internet is consuming great quantities of time then that is creating new problems for people."
Recurring long periods of personal Internet use were associated with 28 percent lower life satisfaction.'
Winners avoid Internet takeover.
In general, winners control their use of technology to optimize efficiency and manage their time; they don't let technology control them.
Monday, February 22, 2010
More Winning Quotes
"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to success is more important than any other one thing."
- Abraham Lincoln
"Don't be afraid to take a big step. You can't cross a chasm in two small jumps."
- David Lloyd George
"Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence."
- Abigail Adams
- Abraham Lincoln
"Don't be afraid to take a big step. You can't cross a chasm in two small jumps."
- David Lloyd George
"Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence."
- Abigail Adams
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Steps of Faith
From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
DEUTERONOMY 10:12-13
'The Bible portrays the Christian life as a walk. It speaks of walking in the Spirit, in God's ways, in love, and in truth. Our lives, then, shouldn't be stagnant; they ought to move and develop to be increasingly like Jesus'. Scripture calls this "sanctification."
But what if you feel that you're going backward instead of forward? Do you know how to turn around? Only by faith in Christ can any of us move in the right direction. Here's how to correct your course:
- First, have assurance that God keeps every promise. The Bible contains an amazing number of guarantees for believers, including wisdom for the asking, God's constant presence, and peace when we focus on Him.
- Second, anticipate the Father's response. In other words, prepare for what He will do because of your confidence in His promises.
- Third, be aware daily of His involvement in your life. By spending time in the Word, prayer, and meditation, you will become sensitive to what He is doing.
- Fourth, pray boldly because you are God's child (Heb. 4:16). Approaching the Father in such a manner isn't a prideful confidence, but an overflow of your assurance in Him.
- Finally, obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is the true test of your belief—in fact, the Bible says that without action, faith is dead (James 2:17).
Can you sense that your life is progressing and you are maturing into Christ's likeness? Or do circumstances and character traits seem to hold you back? God promises to continue making His children beautiful throughout their lives. You can resist Him or cooperate with His gracious work in you.'
Winners take bold steps of faith.
DEUTERONOMY 10:12-13
'The Bible portrays the Christian life as a walk. It speaks of walking in the Spirit, in God's ways, in love, and in truth. Our lives, then, shouldn't be stagnant; they ought to move and develop to be increasingly like Jesus'. Scripture calls this "sanctification."
But what if you feel that you're going backward instead of forward? Do you know how to turn around? Only by faith in Christ can any of us move in the right direction. Here's how to correct your course:
- First, have assurance that God keeps every promise. The Bible contains an amazing number of guarantees for believers, including wisdom for the asking, God's constant presence, and peace when we focus on Him.
- Second, anticipate the Father's response. In other words, prepare for what He will do because of your confidence in His promises.
- Third, be aware daily of His involvement in your life. By spending time in the Word, prayer, and meditation, you will become sensitive to what He is doing.
- Fourth, pray boldly because you are God's child (Heb. 4:16). Approaching the Father in such a manner isn't a prideful confidence, but an overflow of your assurance in Him.
- Finally, obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is the true test of your belief—in fact, the Bible says that without action, faith is dead (James 2:17).
Can you sense that your life is progressing and you are maturing into Christ's likeness? Or do circumstances and character traits seem to hold you back? God promises to continue making His children beautiful throughout their lives. You can resist Him or cooperate with His gracious work in you.'
Winners take bold steps of faith.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Attentiveness
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'Here's a quick test of leadership. Does the leader look into the eyes of the person speaking to him or her? If so, the leader is attentive, interested, and concerned about the needs of the team member. If not, the leader is distracted, unconcerned, or egotistical. Good leaders take people seriously. They listen carefully to the words, inflection, and emotions expressed by others.
Leaders listen to the ideas of their associates. They may not act on every suggestion they receive, but they listen with an ear to hear fresh methodologies. They understand that a concept that may propel them upwards may very well come from a member of their team.
They also listen to complaints. Leaders understand that emotions left unvented can be explosive and stifling or could very well suffocate the efforts of the rest of the team. They value the feedback of both team members and critics. They understand that the cries and concerns of others are cries for personal attention.
"The first step to wisdom is silence; the second is listening."'
Winners learn because they listen.
'Here's a quick test of leadership. Does the leader look into the eyes of the person speaking to him or her? If so, the leader is attentive, interested, and concerned about the needs of the team member. If not, the leader is distracted, unconcerned, or egotistical. Good leaders take people seriously. They listen carefully to the words, inflection, and emotions expressed by others.
Leaders listen to the ideas of their associates. They may not act on every suggestion they receive, but they listen with an ear to hear fresh methodologies. They understand that a concept that may propel them upwards may very well come from a member of their team.
They also listen to complaints. Leaders understand that emotions left unvented can be explosive and stifling or could very well suffocate the efforts of the rest of the team. They value the feedback of both team members and critics. They understand that the cries and concerns of others are cries for personal attention.
"The first step to wisdom is silence; the second is listening."'
Winners learn because they listen.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Being a Busy Bee
From the book 365 Inspirations for a Great Life, by Lynda Field:
'The 24-hour 21st-century society means that we can all be on the go all day and all night. But even busy bees stop buzzing after the sun has set!
Not so very long ago, before electric lighting, people were forced to live at a slower pace and were more in tune with their own natural rhythms and the cycles of the seasons. But now our natural working day does not necessarily start at dawn and end at dusk, it can go on and on until we decide to stop - and some of us don't know when to stop.
When you get so busy that you don't have time to be happy, it's time to reassess. Your life is a wonderful gift. Take time to love and appreciate it.'
Winners know how to stop buzzing and relax!
'The 24-hour 21st-century society means that we can all be on the go all day and all night. But even busy bees stop buzzing after the sun has set!
Not so very long ago, before electric lighting, people were forced to live at a slower pace and were more in tune with their own natural rhythms and the cycles of the seasons. But now our natural working day does not necessarily start at dawn and end at dusk, it can go on and on until we decide to stop - and some of us don't know when to stop.
When you get so busy that you don't have time to be happy, it's time to reassess. Your life is a wonderful gift. Take time to love and appreciate it.'
Winners know how to stop buzzing and relax!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Desert Preparation
From the Today God Is First devotionals (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'So often, when God places a call on one of His children, it requires a separation between the old life and the new life. There is a time of being away from the old in order to prepare the heart for what is coming. It can be a painful and difficult separation....
Perhaps God has placed you in your own desert period. Perhaps you cannot make sense of the situation in which you find yourself. If you press into God during this time, He will reveal the purposes He has for you. The key is pressing into Him. Seek Him with a whole heart and He will be found. God may have a special calling and message He is building in your life right now. Trust in His love for you that He will fully complete the work He has started in you.'
Winners stay strong and persevere even in the midst of a desert of preparation.
'So often, when God places a call on one of His children, it requires a separation between the old life and the new life. There is a time of being away from the old in order to prepare the heart for what is coming. It can be a painful and difficult separation....
Perhaps God has placed you in your own desert period. Perhaps you cannot make sense of the situation in which you find yourself. If you press into God during this time, He will reveal the purposes He has for you. The key is pressing into Him. Seek Him with a whole heart and He will be found. God may have a special calling and message He is building in your life right now. Trust in His love for you that He will fully complete the work He has started in you.'
Winners stay strong and persevere even in the midst of a desert of preparation.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Discover Your Brilliance
From the book Work Less, Make More, by Jennifer White:
Discovering your brilliance and designing your life around it is the key.
What in your life are you brilliant at? In your heart, you know what you do best. Your brilliance is what you're good at, that also energizes and inspires you as you use it.
* What do you do easily and naturally?
* What have other people said you're really good at?
* What activities energize you?
* What consumes you? You know, the stuff that lights your fire.
* What do you really want to do on your days off?
Often, many people have a hard time identifying what they do well. Our society has spent a lot of time and energy teaching you how to identify your weaknesses. You simply don't take enough time to focus on your strengths.
Once you've finished exploring your strengths, complete the statement - "I am brilliant at..."
Now that you've identified your brilliance, it's time to move you to the next level - becoming a master. Our society pays extremely well for mastery.
Masters understand they still have so much left to learn, yet they are still the best at what they do. To continue to be the best, they keep learning, growing, and expanding. Each level of advancement takes work; it also takes an unusual amount of dedication and focus. It takes time, patience, and help from other masters to become a master yourself.
Making more out of your life starts with doing what you do best - all the time; doing something that brings you money but also nourishes your heart and your spirit.
More from this book next week.
Discovering your brilliance and designing your life around it is the key.
What in your life are you brilliant at? In your heart, you know what you do best. Your brilliance is what you're good at, that also energizes and inspires you as you use it.
* What do you do easily and naturally?
* What have other people said you're really good at?
* What activities energize you?
* What consumes you? You know, the stuff that lights your fire.
* What do you really want to do on your days off?
Often, many people have a hard time identifying what they do well. Our society has spent a lot of time and energy teaching you how to identify your weaknesses. You simply don't take enough time to focus on your strengths.
Once you've finished exploring your strengths, complete the statement - "I am brilliant at..."
Now that you've identified your brilliance, it's time to move you to the next level - becoming a master. Our society pays extremely well for mastery.
Masters understand they still have so much left to learn, yet they are still the best at what they do. To continue to be the best, they keep learning, growing, and expanding. Each level of advancement takes work; it also takes an unusual amount of dedication and focus. It takes time, patience, and help from other masters to become a master yourself.
Making more out of your life starts with doing what you do best - all the time; doing something that brings you money but also nourishes your heart and your spirit.
More from this book next week.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Motivation Beats Everything
From the book Simple Secrets for Becoming Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, by David Niven:
'Lack of motivation is a handicap that can stifle a person's potential regardless of their strengths. If you do not want something, it simply does not matter how talented you are.
Understand that motivation is the biggest asset you possess in pursuing your future.
Researchers found that the future career earnings of school children were four times more strongly influenced by personal motivation than by any other factor.'
Motivation is the activation or energization of goal-oriented behavior. Motivation may be rooted in the basic need to minimize physical pain and maximize pleasure.
'Lack of motivation is a handicap that can stifle a person's potential regardless of their strengths. If you do not want something, it simply does not matter how talented you are.
Understand that motivation is the biggest asset you possess in pursuing your future.
Researchers found that the future career earnings of school children were four times more strongly influenced by personal motivation than by any other factor.'
Motivation is the activation or energization of goal-oriented behavior. Motivation may be rooted in the basic need to minimize physical pain and maximize pleasure.
Monday, February 15, 2010
More Winning Quotes
"A secure individual...knows that the responsibility for anything concerning his life remains with himself - and he accepts that responsibility."
- Harry Browne
"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it possible."
- T.E. Lawrence
"The amount of satisfaction you get from life depends largely on your own ingenuity, self-sufficiency, and resourcefulness. People who wait around for life to supply their satisfaction usually find boredom instead."
- William Menninger
- Harry Browne
"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it possible."
- T.E. Lawrence
"The amount of satisfaction you get from life depends largely on your own ingenuity, self-sufficiency, and resourcefulness. People who wait around for life to supply their satisfaction usually find boredom instead."
- William Menninger
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Levels of Life
From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
1 Corinthians 2:12-3:3
'Living accommodations vary widely in the physical world, ranging from mansions to crude shelters. In the same way, the spiritual realm also has different levels.
In our passage today, the Lord reveals three ranks of spiritual life:
1. The Natural Man—Everyone who has not accepted Christ as his Savior is in this category. Many in this group are capable of good deeds, but since their sins remain unforgiven, they are separated from the Lord. Because the Holy Spirit does not dwell within them, they cannot understand the things of God.
2. The Spiritual Man—This group is composed of Christians who are filled with the Spirit and surrendered to His control. Though they're not perfect, they are quick to recognize transgression, confess sin, and genuinely repent by turning back to God. Because the Holy Spirit is ruling in their lives, He is able to guide them by offering wisdom and insight into spiritual things.
3. The Fleshly Man—This designation describes believers who are trying to live in two different worlds. At salvation, all Christians are given a new nature, but the old "flesh" patterns aren't removed. By allowing residual sinful tendencies to dominate their lives, these people are quenching the Spirit within them.
You are in one of these three categories. Take some time to evaluate your life by asking, Where am I now? Where would I like to be? The Lord will help those who want to move closer to Him. Ask Him to work in your life to bring you to the place of the spiritual man.'
1 Corinthians 2:12-3:3
'Living accommodations vary widely in the physical world, ranging from mansions to crude shelters. In the same way, the spiritual realm also has different levels.
In our passage today, the Lord reveals three ranks of spiritual life:
1. The Natural Man—Everyone who has not accepted Christ as his Savior is in this category. Many in this group are capable of good deeds, but since their sins remain unforgiven, they are separated from the Lord. Because the Holy Spirit does not dwell within them, they cannot understand the things of God.
2. The Spiritual Man—This group is composed of Christians who are filled with the Spirit and surrendered to His control. Though they're not perfect, they are quick to recognize transgression, confess sin, and genuinely repent by turning back to God. Because the Holy Spirit is ruling in their lives, He is able to guide them by offering wisdom and insight into spiritual things.
3. The Fleshly Man—This designation describes believers who are trying to live in two different worlds. At salvation, all Christians are given a new nature, but the old "flesh" patterns aren't removed. By allowing residual sinful tendencies to dominate their lives, these people are quenching the Spirit within them.
You are in one of these three categories. Take some time to evaluate your life by asking, Where am I now? Where would I like to be? The Lord will help those who want to move closer to Him. Ask Him to work in your life to bring you to the place of the spiritual man.'
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Mentoring
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'You can always spot an A-level leader. How? He or she will have A-level subordinates. Those who follow them will have some of their skills, some of their determination, and some of their vision. True leadership is contagious. People catch it, and it germinates in their spirits.
You can spot B-level leaders just as easily. They'll probably have C-level subordinates. B-level leaders are intimidated by the potential of others. They are keepers of the keys who prevent the unlocking of someone's potential.
A-level leaders are not threatened by great potential. In fact, they look for it, seek it, recruit it, and develop it. It thrills them. It drives them on to even greater accomplishments. They have discovered the secret of excellence. They have realized the great possibility - that they can multiply their work by developing and training their associates to reach their full capability.
A great leader will not be a leader of followers. He or she will be a leader of leaders.'
Leaders grow leaders.
'You can always spot an A-level leader. How? He or she will have A-level subordinates. Those who follow them will have some of their skills, some of their determination, and some of their vision. True leadership is contagious. People catch it, and it germinates in their spirits.
You can spot B-level leaders just as easily. They'll probably have C-level subordinates. B-level leaders are intimidated by the potential of others. They are keepers of the keys who prevent the unlocking of someone's potential.
A-level leaders are not threatened by great potential. In fact, they look for it, seek it, recruit it, and develop it. It thrills them. It drives them on to even greater accomplishments. They have discovered the secret of excellence. They have realized the great possibility - that they can multiply their work by developing and training their associates to reach their full capability.
A great leader will not be a leader of followers. He or she will be a leader of leaders.'
Leaders grow leaders.
Friday, February 12, 2010
In Balance
From the book 365 Inspirations for a Great Life, by Lynda Field:
'We are built for mental, physical, emotional and spiritual activity. Creativity and high confidence levels depend upon the balance of these activities. If you are feeling less than your best, check to see if you are in balance by answering the following questions:
* How much mental activity have I had today?
* How much physical activity have I had today?
* How long have I been in touch with my emotions today?
* How much spiritual activity have I had today?
Discover where the imbalance lies and then find ways to re-establish a balance in your life.'
Winners strive for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.
'We are built for mental, physical, emotional and spiritual activity. Creativity and high confidence levels depend upon the balance of these activities. If you are feeling less than your best, check to see if you are in balance by answering the following questions:
* How much mental activity have I had today?
* How much physical activity have I had today?
* How long have I been in touch with my emotions today?
* How much spiritual activity have I had today?
Discover where the imbalance lies and then find ways to re-establish a balance in your life.'
Winners strive for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Deep Things
From the Today God Is First devotionals (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'One of the great mysteries of the Kingdom is how God uses the darkest times in our lives to reveal greater depths of understanding of His ways. The only way we can receive these deeper things is to be driven to the depths of darkness. It is here that we discover important truths that He plans to use in our lives and the lives of others.
There is a process God uses to draw us into greater levels of intimacy. The first phase involves a depth of soul experience that causes great pain in our lives. We seek God for deliverance from the incredible emotional pain this causes. Our primary motivation for seeking God is to get out of our pain.
During this time, God meets us in the depths of darkness. We discover that He never left us but is in the midst of the darkness. We develop a new relationship with God. Gradually our motivation turns from removal of pain to love and intimacy with God. This is the place our Heavenly Father desires us to be.
During this season God will make spiritual deposits into your life. Others will be making withdrawals in the future from your life as well. You see, God reveals deep things in darkness that will be revealed in the light.
If you find yourself in great distress, know that God will bring your deep shadows into the light. The key to your deliverance is becoming satisfied in God. He becomes your all. He is your life. You will know your deliverance is near when your circumstances simply don't matter to you anymore.
Love the Lord your God with all your soul and see what things He will show you in the deep things of darkness.'
'One of the great mysteries of the Kingdom is how God uses the darkest times in our lives to reveal greater depths of understanding of His ways. The only way we can receive these deeper things is to be driven to the depths of darkness. It is here that we discover important truths that He plans to use in our lives and the lives of others.
There is a process God uses to draw us into greater levels of intimacy. The first phase involves a depth of soul experience that causes great pain in our lives. We seek God for deliverance from the incredible emotional pain this causes. Our primary motivation for seeking God is to get out of our pain.
During this time, God meets us in the depths of darkness. We discover that He never left us but is in the midst of the darkness. We develop a new relationship with God. Gradually our motivation turns from removal of pain to love and intimacy with God. This is the place our Heavenly Father desires us to be.
During this season God will make spiritual deposits into your life. Others will be making withdrawals in the future from your life as well. You see, God reveals deep things in darkness that will be revealed in the light.
If you find yourself in great distress, know that God will bring your deep shadows into the light. The key to your deliverance is becoming satisfied in God. He becomes your all. He is your life. You will know your deliverance is near when your circumstances simply don't matter to you anymore.
Love the Lord your God with all your soul and see what things He will show you in the deep things of darkness.'
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Shifts You Need to Make
From the book Work Less, Make More by Jennifer White:
Old Belief
I work extremely hard to be a success.
New Belief
I work extremely smart, not hard.
OB
I work all the time in order to someday "make it."
NB
I stopped working a long time ago. My work is fun and full of joy.
OB
I come home exhausted from work.
NB
I come home from work energized.
OB
I put my company needs in front of my own needs.
NB
I come first. No matter what. Only then can I be brilliant at work.
OB
I take on more and more at work because no one else will do it.
NB
I only take on activities I do extremely well.
OB
I define my success by the money I make.
NB
I define success first by how fulfilled I am. The money comes second or third or fourth.
OB
I keep going and going.
NB
I listen to myself and rest when I need to.
Other New Beliefs to Adopt
* I take all the time I need to rest. That way I go back to work on fire.
* I always ask for help. I'm not weak if I ask for help.
* I know that I'm on the right path. I don't care what others think.
* I live my life by my own rules and standards.
* Money is a tool in life, just one way to measure success.
* Making money is part of the plan. Suffering is optional.
More from this book next week.
Old Belief
I work extremely hard to be a success.
New Belief
I work extremely smart, not hard.
OB
I work all the time in order to someday "make it."
NB
I stopped working a long time ago. My work is fun and full of joy.
OB
I come home exhausted from work.
NB
I come home from work energized.
OB
I put my company needs in front of my own needs.
NB
I come first. No matter what. Only then can I be brilliant at work.
OB
I take on more and more at work because no one else will do it.
NB
I only take on activities I do extremely well.
OB
I define my success by the money I make.
NB
I define success first by how fulfilled I am. The money comes second or third or fourth.
OB
I keep going and going.
NB
I listen to myself and rest when I need to.
Other New Beliefs to Adopt
* I take all the time I need to rest. That way I go back to work on fire.
* I always ask for help. I'm not weak if I ask for help.
* I know that I'm on the right path. I don't care what others think.
* I live my life by my own rules and standards.
* Money is a tool in life, just one way to measure success.
* Making money is part of the plan. Suffering is optional.
More from this book next week.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Write Down the Directions
From the book Simple Secrets for Becoming Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, by David Niven:
'If you were going to take a complicated journey out of town, you would write down the directions. But if you were considering the future path of your life, your goals, and what you needed to do to achieve them, you probably wouldn't write any of it down.
Think of it - the most significant journey of your life, and you probably won't put a word of the directions on paper.
Putting your plans, goals, and ideas on paper makes them more real for you, more tangible. Every step you take to define what you want and what you need to do to get it increases the chances that you will actually pursue these goals and someday achieve them.
What's your quest? Not just what you want to do, but what you need to do.
Keep a journal. If you write down whatever comes to you, you will be able to see the patterns of your thoughts, discover things you didn't even know about yourself, and discover how you fit into your quest.
People who regularly keep a journal or some kind of written record pertaining to their aspirations are 32 percent more likely to feel that they are making progress in their lives.'
Winners write down the directions for their future life path.
'If you were going to take a complicated journey out of town, you would write down the directions. But if you were considering the future path of your life, your goals, and what you needed to do to achieve them, you probably wouldn't write any of it down.
Think of it - the most significant journey of your life, and you probably won't put a word of the directions on paper.
Putting your plans, goals, and ideas on paper makes them more real for you, more tangible. Every step you take to define what you want and what you need to do to get it increases the chances that you will actually pursue these goals and someday achieve them.
What's your quest? Not just what you want to do, but what you need to do.
Keep a journal. If you write down whatever comes to you, you will be able to see the patterns of your thoughts, discover things you didn't even know about yourself, and discover how you fit into your quest.
People who regularly keep a journal or some kind of written record pertaining to their aspirations are 32 percent more likely to feel that they are making progress in their lives.'
Winners write down the directions for their future life path.
Monday, February 8, 2010
More Winning Quotes
"When we accept tough jobs as a challenge to our ability and wade into them with joy and enthusiasm, miracles can happen."
- Arland Gilbert
"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
- Henry David Thoreau
"Search and you will find that at the base and birth of every great business organization was an enthusiast, a man consumed with earnestness of purpose, with confidence in his powers, with faith in the worthwhileness of his endeavors."
- B.C. Forbes
- Arland Gilbert
"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
- Henry David Thoreau
"Search and you will find that at the base and birth of every great business organization was an enthusiast, a man consumed with earnestness of purpose, with confidence in his powers, with faith in the worthwhileness of his endeavors."
- B.C. Forbes
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Maintaining Joy
From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
'Though some people use the terms happiness and joy interchangeably, there is a vast difference in their meaning. Both cause a pleasant emotional response, but the former relies entirely upon circumstance. As soon as difficulty arises and pain intrudes, a person ceases to be happy. On the other hand, joy is a gift from God that enables believers to find hope and peace—even when life seemingly falls apart.
At times, however, even Christians live joylessly. Sinful behavior, of course, is one reason. But there can be other causes, too, including regret about past failures, fear of future mishaps, or a pattern of discontentment that's ingrained in one's personality.
If you are a follower of Jesus but lack gladness, take a moment to remember who Christ is—and who you are in Him. To begin with, you are saved eternally, and your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. The love of almighty God is unconditional, and His indwelling Spirit will never abandon you. He understands everything that you face and promises to provide for your needs.
When you stop to consider the amazing blessings that are yours in Christ, gratitude will likely overwhelm you. Sadness concerning circumstances may still endure, but the joy of the Lord will carry you through even the deepest pain.
Amid the ups and downs of life, does God's joy sustain you? Or do trials leave you hopeless and discontented? Our Father offers a higher way of living—not without pain but with strength to endure. Continually remember the vast treasure you have in Him and His promises.'
'Though some people use the terms happiness and joy interchangeably, there is a vast difference in their meaning. Both cause a pleasant emotional response, but the former relies entirely upon circumstance. As soon as difficulty arises and pain intrudes, a person ceases to be happy. On the other hand, joy is a gift from God that enables believers to find hope and peace—even when life seemingly falls apart.
At times, however, even Christians live joylessly. Sinful behavior, of course, is one reason. But there can be other causes, too, including regret about past failures, fear of future mishaps, or a pattern of discontentment that's ingrained in one's personality.
If you are a follower of Jesus but lack gladness, take a moment to remember who Christ is—and who you are in Him. To begin with, you are saved eternally, and your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. The love of almighty God is unconditional, and His indwelling Spirit will never abandon you. He understands everything that you face and promises to provide for your needs.
When you stop to consider the amazing blessings that are yours in Christ, gratitude will likely overwhelm you. Sadness concerning circumstances may still endure, but the joy of the Lord will carry you through even the deepest pain.
Amid the ups and downs of life, does God's joy sustain you? Or do trials leave you hopeless and discontented? Our Father offers a higher way of living—not without pain but with strength to endure. Continually remember the vast treasure you have in Him and His promises.'
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Foresight
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
"Leadership is calculated risk-taking."
'A chess master never thinks only of the next move. He is thinking three, four, or five moves ahead. Leaders do the same thing. Their vision is cast well into the future. And that future is as familiar to them as it can be to the finite mind. They have dreamed dreams of that place. They have planted and built their hopes there. They have already envisioned a completion in that future.
Leaders aren't that enthused about short trips. They are on a long journey of excellence. And they know that journey is made of individual steps, each firmly planted in uncharted territory.
In one sense, they never arrive. When one phase of a project is completed, they instantly move to the next. When a goal is achieved, they roll out the new one. No problem is ever the end of the road. No achievement is ever the top of the hill. There is always that next step - the step already dreamed in their heart; the step planned for, prayed for, and provided for, because of the far-reaching vision.'
Winners know what to do next.
"Leadership is calculated risk-taking."
'A chess master never thinks only of the next move. He is thinking three, four, or five moves ahead. Leaders do the same thing. Their vision is cast well into the future. And that future is as familiar to them as it can be to the finite mind. They have dreamed dreams of that place. They have planted and built their hopes there. They have already envisioned a completion in that future.
Leaders aren't that enthused about short trips. They are on a long journey of excellence. And they know that journey is made of individual steps, each firmly planted in uncharted territory.
In one sense, they never arrive. When one phase of a project is completed, they instantly move to the next. When a goal is achieved, they roll out the new one. No problem is ever the end of the road. No achievement is ever the top of the hill. There is always that next step - the step already dreamed in their heart; the step planned for, prayed for, and provided for, because of the far-reaching vision.'
Winners know what to do next.
Friday, February 5, 2010
A Winning Mentality
From the book 365 Inspirations for a Great Life, by Lynda Field:
'Sports psychology has demonstrated that winning has as much to do with mental strength as ability: in other words, a positive attitude leads to success.
At least 70 percent of our daily thoughts are negative (how much more on a bad day?) Negativity is a major obstacle to success, so we need to develop a good positive attitude in order to create winning situations in our everyday lives.
Start the day on a positive note:
* When you open your eyes be glad for the day
* Expect the best
* Choose positivity over negativity every time'
Winners win mentally too.
'Sports psychology has demonstrated that winning has as much to do with mental strength as ability: in other words, a positive attitude leads to success.
At least 70 percent of our daily thoughts are negative (how much more on a bad day?) Negativity is a major obstacle to success, so we need to develop a good positive attitude in order to create winning situations in our everyday lives.
Start the day on a positive note:
* When you open your eyes be glad for the day
* Expect the best
* Choose positivity over negativity every time'
Winners win mentally too.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Creating a Memory
From the Today God Is First devotionals (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'Ken Blanchard, the author of the One Minute Manager, once shared a story about what can happen when individuals in a company model servant leadership, no matter where they are on the totem pole.
A business consultant was training more than 3000 employees of a mid-western grocery chain to approach their jobs with a goal of creating a memory for their customers. She stated that "this is what will distinguish your store from all others."
Johnny was a 19-year old bag boy that had down-syndrome. His first response to the consultant's suggestion was "I'm just a 'bag boy.'" Nevertheless, he went home and shared what the consultant said with his mother. They began to ponder the consultant's words about how he could create a memory for his customers. Johnny had a habit of collecting inspirational thoughts that he would often read. He decided he would begin printing these sayings and place one in each of the bags of his customers. When customers came through the line he would place the sayings in their bag and say, "I've included some of my favorite sayings in your bag in hopes it will encourage you today. Thanks for shopping with us."
After just a few weeks, an amazing thing began to happen. One day the store manager noticed that all the customers were lined up at only one cashier station when there were other stations open. He began to panic, thinking the other stations were broken. After further investigation he found this was not the case. Actually, customers wanted to come through Johnny's line in order to get his saying of the day.
One woman came up to the manager and said, "I used to come to the store only once a week, but now I come everyday!" Johnny's example spread to other departments in the store. The florist began giving a flower to each florist customer. The meat department put Snoopy stickers on each meat order with a special greeting. This one act by a bag boy changed the entire climate of the store.'
Winners create memories for others.
'Ken Blanchard, the author of the One Minute Manager, once shared a story about what can happen when individuals in a company model servant leadership, no matter where they are on the totem pole.
A business consultant was training more than 3000 employees of a mid-western grocery chain to approach their jobs with a goal of creating a memory for their customers. She stated that "this is what will distinguish your store from all others."
Johnny was a 19-year old bag boy that had down-syndrome. His first response to the consultant's suggestion was "I'm just a 'bag boy.'" Nevertheless, he went home and shared what the consultant said with his mother. They began to ponder the consultant's words about how he could create a memory for his customers. Johnny had a habit of collecting inspirational thoughts that he would often read. He decided he would begin printing these sayings and place one in each of the bags of his customers. When customers came through the line he would place the sayings in their bag and say, "I've included some of my favorite sayings in your bag in hopes it will encourage you today. Thanks for shopping with us."
After just a few weeks, an amazing thing began to happen. One day the store manager noticed that all the customers were lined up at only one cashier station when there were other stations open. He began to panic, thinking the other stations were broken. After further investigation he found this was not the case. Actually, customers wanted to come through Johnny's line in order to get his saying of the day.
One woman came up to the manager and said, "I used to come to the store only once a week, but now I come everyday!" Johnny's example spread to other departments in the store. The florist began giving a flower to each florist customer. The meat department put Snoopy stickers on each meat order with a special greeting. This one act by a bag boy changed the entire climate of the store.'
Winners create memories for others.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
To Risk
From the book Work Less, Make More, by Jennifer White:
To Risk
To laugh is to risk appearing the fool.
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
To reach out to another is to risk involvement.
To express feelings is to risk exposing your true self.
To place ideas and dreams before a crowd is to risk their loss.
To love is to risk being loved in return.
To live is to risk dying.
To try is to risk failure.
But risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.
The person who asks nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing.
They may avoid suffering and sorrow, but they
Cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love, live.
Chained by their attitudes, they are slaves.
They have forfeited their freedom.
Only a person who risks is free.
- Anonymous
'...you must have courage...reach down into the essence of your being and find the courage to risk...Take out a piece of paper and write "Only a person who risks is free.'
Winners take risks.
To Risk
To laugh is to risk appearing the fool.
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
To reach out to another is to risk involvement.
To express feelings is to risk exposing your true self.
To place ideas and dreams before a crowd is to risk their loss.
To love is to risk being loved in return.
To live is to risk dying.
To try is to risk failure.
But risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.
The person who asks nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing.
They may avoid suffering and sorrow, but they
Cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love, live.
Chained by their attitudes, they are slaves.
They have forfeited their freedom.
Only a person who risks is free.
- Anonymous
'...you must have courage...reach down into the essence of your being and find the courage to risk...Take out a piece of paper and write "Only a person who risks is free.'
Winners take risks.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Healthy Living Is an Attitude
From the book Simple Secrets for Becoming Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, by David Niven:
'What is the difference between someone who has healthy habits and someone who doesn't? It's not ability. Anyone could choose to eat better foods or avoid unhealthy habits. It's not inclination. Everyone would prefer being healthy to the alternative. It is, however, attitude. Specifically, an optimistic view of one's ability to engage in healthy habits is the most important ingredient in actually following those healthy habits.
..."If you have the right attitude about your family, your work, and your health, you can see that everything in your life is interconnected, and that the reason you can succeed in health is the same reason you can succeed in anything you care about doing."
Doctors conducted a study of recently pregnant women and found that the single best predictor of their eating and exercise habits after pregnancy was not their physical condition or their weight, but their belief in their ability to take care of themselves.'
Winners THINK healthy!
'What is the difference between someone who has healthy habits and someone who doesn't? It's not ability. Anyone could choose to eat better foods or avoid unhealthy habits. It's not inclination. Everyone would prefer being healthy to the alternative. It is, however, attitude. Specifically, an optimistic view of one's ability to engage in healthy habits is the most important ingredient in actually following those healthy habits.
..."If you have the right attitude about your family, your work, and your health, you can see that everything in your life is interconnected, and that the reason you can succeed in health is the same reason you can succeed in anything you care about doing."
Doctors conducted a study of recently pregnant women and found that the single best predictor of their eating and exercise habits after pregnancy was not their physical condition or their weight, but their belief in their ability to take care of themselves.'
Winners THINK healthy!
Monday, February 1, 2010
More Winning Quotes
"Peace does not dwell in outward things, but within the soul; we may preserve it in the midst of the bitterest pain, if our will remains firm and submissive. Peace in this life springs from acquiescence to, not in an exemption from, suffering."
- Francois de Fenelon
"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."
- Martin Luther King Jr.
"No man can live happily who regards himself alone, who turns everything to his own advantage. Thou must live for another if thou wishest to live for thyself."
- Marcus Annaeus Seneca
- Francois de Fenelon
"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."
- Martin Luther King Jr.
"No man can live happily who regards himself alone, who turns everything to his own advantage. Thou must live for another if thou wishest to live for thyself."
- Marcus Annaeus Seneca
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