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4 Attributes of a Leader

2012-01-25T12:46:00.000-08:00

This week I attended our Leaders Conference with our Pastor/Bishop Nate Holcomb. Here are 4 attributes of a True Leader

1. Leaders do not brake under pressure. This means they do not allow the pressures of life to determine how they will react. It can be difficult at times as a leader. But one thing is when under pressure we run to the rock. Psalms 91:16 says with long life I will satisfy Him. Jesus said we will run and not be weary, walk and not faint. Many people are running to other objects for relief. We must run to Him.

2. Leaders cannot become bitter with Life. This is one of the greatest attributes about a true leader. We must not become bitter with the process. Isaiah 1:19 we will eat the good of the land if we are willing and obedient. We can eat and be satisfied if we are willing and obedient.

3. Leaders tell the truth and keep their word. Keeping your word and telling the truth is an attribute of a leader. You cannot say you are leading and not keeping your word and telling the truth. The bible tells us the truth will make you free. It's the truth that we must keep. Keeping our word even when it hurts will cause one as a leader to reach their full potential.

4. Leaders have to be patience. Stick to what God has spoken to you. You might have to change or reposition what you are doing, but you must have patience and move on when God instructs you. David asked the Lord, do I pursue my enemy and the Lord answered him one time to wait by the mulberry trees and when you hear the sound of the shuffling of the tress that is when you move. He had to be patience and move when God told him. It might not make sense, but it does make sense to follow God, so move on what He is speaking.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Fasting

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Fasting is our way of clearing our spiritual channels so that we can acquire clear and precise direction and anwsered prayers. When Daniel fasted for 21 days, the bible tells us his prayer was heard the first time he prayed, but their was warfare in the heavenlies. It was only held up for 21 days, but God answered it.

During this 21 day fast, I encourage every one to paticipate in some form. God hears the prayer of the righteous. Here are some points on fasting.

1. Write down what you are believing God to do in 2012. The bible tells us to make the vision plan.

2. Have a daily confession.

Corporately fasting January 1st, 2012 - January 21st 2012 is much the same precept as praying in the morning to establish the will of God for the entire day. Fasting is a principle that God intended for everyone to be able to enjoy. It's not a punishment; it's a privilege! By making fasting a way of life, you can get closer to God and grow in your spiritual walk like never before.

Fasting is one of the most powerful weapons God has given us for our daily lives. Fasting has to do with your future.As you fast, pray for God's direction and guidance. Focus your faith on your dream and God will show you how you can turn your vision into a reality according to His will.

1. Habakkuk 2:2 tells us to write the vision down. Take time and write down what you are believing God for. . Seek the Lord in prayer and let your decisions about your fast come from Him.

2. Ask the Lord to show you areas to target during your time of fasting and prayer. Start with a clear goal and make a commitment to stick to your fast.

3. Finally be ready to grow in your walk like never before as you seek the Lord through the Biblical principles of prayer and fasting.

FASTING FOCUS SCRIPTURES
Matthew 6:33, Isaiah 58:6

Corporate Fasting: 2 Chronicles 20:34, Joel 2:15-16, Acts 27:33-37

TYPES OF FASTS (consult with your doctor prior to starting)

Full Fast - drink liquids only (you establish number of days) consult with your Doctor
Daniel Fast - (see below)
3 Day Fast - This can be any type of Fast
Partial Fast - 6am - 3pm or sun up to sun down. This can be any type also (full, Daniel, partial, 3 day)

GUIDELINES FOR DANIEL FAST
(Foods We May Eat)
Whole Grains: Brown Rice, Oats, Barley
Legumes: Dried Beans, Pinto Beans, Split Peas, Lentils, Black Eyed
Peas
Fruits: Apples, Apricots, Bananas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Boysenberries,
Cantaloupe, Cherries, Cranberries, Oats, Figs, Grapefruit, Grapes, Guava,
Honeydew Melon, Kiwi, Lemons, Limes, Mangoes, Nectarines, Papayas,
Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, Plums, Prunes, Raisins, Raspberries,
Strawberries, Tangelos, Tangerines, Watermelon
Vegetables: Artichokes, Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts,
Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chili Peppers, Corn, Cucumbers,
Eggplant, Garlic, Gingerroot, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens,
Okra, Onions, Parsley, Potatoes, Radishes, Rutabagas, Scallions, Spinach,
Sprouts, Squashes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Turnips, Watercress, Yams, Zucchini
Seeds, Nuts, Sprouts
Liquids: Water

(Foods to Avoid)
Meat
White Rice
Fried Foods
Caffeine
Carbonated Beverages
Foods Containing Preservatives or Additives
Refined Sugar
Sugar Substitutes
White Flour and All Products Using It
Margarine, Shortening, High Fat Products

Reposition

2011-12-29T13:54:00.000-08:00

Reposition – Your best is yet to come

In a few days, it will be the New Year. Maybe this year has been a year of drought and frustration. On the contrary, maybe this is been one of the best years of your life. Either way, I want to talk to you today about repositioning. In the bible, there was a man by the name of Isaac. He was told by God to stay in the region he was in but there was a famine. Due to the famine in the land, it seemed to complicate things. How could God want him to stay where there was great lack and despair? In a quick answer, it was to accomplish the assignment God set out for his life. Looking from the outside in, it would appear like Isaac missed God; but he didn’t. You see, as you read the account of this portion of his life in Genesis 26, you learn that he had to reposition himself. When he did, the bible explains he was able to break through. Are you at a point in life where you a need a breakthrough? I encourage you to do what Isaac did and reposition yourself. Isaac repositioned himself, dug a well, and named it Rehoboth which means more than enough room.

The process was a challenge. However, once he repositioned, he was able to move forward and accomplish all that God had set out for his life. In Matthew 3:9 it tells us not to think of ourselves too highly and to place our focus on knowing Him; Jesus. God may be calling you today to reposition your attitude, relationships, career track, health focus or something of the like; only you know. Whatever it is, start today to reposition. The bible teaches us Isaac removed himself from the place where nothing was working, repositioned in the same country, different region.

God desires for our life to be fruitful, even in hard times, but it can only occur if we reposition ourselves and have our souls anchored on the rock of Christ Jesus. I want you to think about this as we approach this next year. Where you are at and where does God desires for you to be? Write it down. You might have to forgive someone, or forgive yourself. You may have to ask for someone to forgive you. Listen to that still small voice inside. Decide today, not to take the past into the future. Instead reposition, so that you can have the life God intended you to have! I am confident that 2012 is going to be an epic year, I declare God’s best over your life and hold onto the hope in your heart that the best is yet to come!

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Reposition

2011-12-29T11:54:00.001-08:00

Reposition – Your best is yet to come

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Attitude of Gratitude

2011-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours! We pray that your day is filled with faith, family, friends and fun.

You might say, “Pastor, I’m thankful for today and to be alive, but it’s been a rough year.” Yes, my friend I know. 2011 has been rough for quite a few families. Not just economically, but relationally; there has been much transition.

I want to encourage you today and let you know, through every opposition, there is opportunity. Your best is yet to come! We can make excuses or we can make progress. Choose progress! Together, let’s take on an attitude of gratitude. Let’s not allow the fear of losing to be greater than the excitement of winning.

I want to speak faith filled words over your life. I want you to walk away with a hope that you can Begin Again, Dream Again and Live Again. You can reach your full potential through Christ. You are more than a conqueror.

God see’s your future and there are great opportunities ahead for you. Having a thankful heart opens up the abundance in our life.

Every Thanksgiving, at our home, we go around the dinner table listing three things we are thankful and grateful for. I encourage you to share with someone today, what you are thankful for.

Here are three you can start with:

I am thankful my future is bright!

I am thankful my best days are ahead!

I am thankful that there is hope for tomorrow and strength for everything we go through.

Life is what we make it. Thank you for sharing this short time with me on your Thanksgiving!

Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving,

Pastor Mark Brown

Staging a Comeback

2011-10-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

In life we are faced with some of the greatest opposition. These oppositions are meant to derail us from reaching our full potential in Christ. Jesus said in John 10:10 “the thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy, but I (Jesus) have come that you may have life and have it abundantly.” The only way to acquire and live an abundant life, is to allow Him to stage a comeback.

So, how does God stage a comeback? God is notorious about making His comeback in our lives. In the book of Romans, it tells us all thing work together for the good of them that are called by His name. It’s allowing Him to work all the good, the bad, and the ugly situations out in our lives. It starts with placing our disappointments, success, strengths, and weaknesses in His hand.

In the bible, God gave dreams and visions to a young man named Joseph. This man went through horrific times in life. In fact, he was falsely accused, lied about, and thrown out, all because of dreams he had. But he kept holding on and pressing forward when most would have given up. After 13 years, God promoted him and his dreams came to pass.

I want you to know just as God staged a comeback for Joseph, so is He staging a comeback for you. God is intentional about our success. He knows life has its opposition, but He knows how to position and set the stage for a great comeback. Your comeback may not take 13 years, it may be next month, next week, in two years, but know that God is working on your behalf.

I don’t know where you are in life or if you need a comeback in a certain area of your life, but if you give Him all of the problems, God will set the stage for one of the greatest comebacks in your life. Remember, this stage is set by God and not man, which converts to you and I succeeding because of the person who has set the stage.

Begin your comeback today.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark Brown

It shall be

2011-09-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

In Genesis chapter 37 we see here a young anointed man by the name of Joseph, which is the son of Jacob, in the beginnings of his life. Joseph was in the interlude of what was getting ready to thrust him into the destiny in his life. The bible records Jacob as loving Joseph above all his brothers and was given a coat of many colors by his father.

Through the process of time the young man had dreams which were very bold and exclaiming about his life. Little did his family know that these dreams where prophetic from God of what was to come, but like most religious families, they refused to receive them and became offended at what Joseph was telling them. Has God given you a vision in which you were so excited? However, bound and immature people try to discourage the vision because they want it for themselves or they simply cannot see you there. Don’t worry because God led Joseph through all the immature and death traps of the enemy and He will lead you though too.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

It's your Time

2011-09-06T13:29:00.001-07:00

God's method's are not always common. He used a donkey to stop a man from being killed. He used a bush that was on fire, but did not burn to get some one's attention. He told one man to eat a scroll. He told an army to fight not with weapons but with musical instruments. He spit in the mud and took the mud then proceeded to place them on a blind man's eyes and he was healed.

All of these are only a few of uncommon ways God used to deliver, heal, save, and bring back to life for people. There can be times in our life that He uses uncommon ways to solve the solution. These uncommon ways are uncommon to us, but not to Him. They have meaning and are used many times as examples in our life.

I want to encourage you not to dismiss something that God is using in your life. It might be different to us, but it's not different to Him.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

When God says Yes

2011-08-31T09:37:00.000-07:00

God's word is not just facts but truthful. What is predicated upon God's blessings manifesting is our obedience of the truth.

When God says Yes, it means He has already gone before you and has given you opportunity to acquire what you desire. It's All About Him. As I have said before God's truth overrides all facts. It's when we speak the Truth of the Word of God into our situation we see victory.

God told Noah to build the ark. It had not rain in over 100 years or a Century. The facts did not add up. Even if it rained, it would take months years to even get to a place where the ark was needed, but he did not know God was going to flood in one down pour to make the ark float.

Noah trusted the truth that God said it's going to rain verses the facts. The facts might be the economy is not good. The forecast might be no rain, jobs limited, money tight, or it might be jobs are in quantity, and money is not an issue. Which ever it is, when God says Yes, move on His word. It's the truth of what He has said that will override the fact.

If God is saying yes to you, don't ignore it, it's your time for greatness.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Taken

2011-08-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

The present invidious, will not compare to the supernatural that God will do. God has the efficacious to develop full potential in and through you. You have what it takes to accomplish all that God has placed in your heart.

God knows the right time. He is not infelicitous, but timely and knows exactly what to say and do for us.

In Exodus God used a shy, but strong in nature man to deliver Israel out of the Egyptian hand. God will use whoever desires for Him to use. No matter how much Moses was trained and educated in the Egyptian protocol, he was already taken by God. When we have a revelation we are already taken, no matter where we go, where we educate ourselves, who we thank we may want to become or marry, you are already taken. Before the foundation of the World God took you and planed out a coarse for your life.

Here are three points that will encourage you to know you are taken.

1. Before- This is a word that God is notorious about in letting us know before you arrived at where you are, God already had a plan and is directing your path. Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 1:4

2. For we know not- We might not know where to go or what to say, but God does and when we pray in the spirit, the Holy Spirit makes intercession on our behalf. Romans 8:26

3. Everything will work to your good. God has already repositioned you to accomplish what He has said is yours. When Abraham went to Egypt, he told his wife that he was going to tell them he was his sister. Technically she was his half sister. He did this because he thought the King would kill him and take his wife. So when they arrived and he said this is my sister, Sarah was taken to the King. But that night the King had a dream that God showed him she belonged to Abraham and not to touch her. The King did nothing wrong, but she was already taken. God interrupted the enemies plans and rescued her. She was let go and so was Abraham. So it is in our lives we are taken and God will interrupt the enemies plans if we allow Him.

So today, know that you are taken and be willing to block out the enemy and all that he has attempted and attempts to do.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

When Faith Makes Sense

2011-07-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

When things are going well or are not too far off base, it can seem easier to have faith. Maybe it is because your faith isn’t being stretched, it is still in a comfortable zone, not requiring too much. Or possibly, it’s because you simply are still relying on natural factors to resolve the issues vs. supernatural intervention.

Some people think faith is a crutch or something tricky and it doesn’t really make sense. They don’t always understand it and can’t seem to grasp how to stand in faith when the world around them is falling apart.

Let me clarify that faith is an action. Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Faith is not foolishness or presumption, but rather believing and trusting at the same time.

Once you understand that about faith, the next thing you need to check is who or what you are having faith in. Are you having faith in your career vs. having faith in God that opens doors no man can shut and shuts doors no man can open? In life we can experience “faith failure” because our trust and belief was not in the right place to start with. Then we proceed to not understand, blame God and the list goes on. So today, I invite you to have faith for whatever situation you are facing. Faith in God, that He will turn the situation around and is in complete control. Don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed, walking through the week in fear or with anxiety but rather do your part, which is what we call the natural, and allow God to do the providential. Activate your faith!

Praying for your success,

Pastor Mark

Present verses future

2011-07-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

Occupy, Reign, Rule, takeover - these words speak about planning and structure. It's important to gather, plan, and build or rebuild what has been destroyed. God deals with us about plans and structure.

Even the anointing needs a structure to rest on. If we do not have a structure, then we are missing points.

Here are some points about creating a plan and structure for where you are going.

1. Jesus would at times talk with His disciples and give them insight on His mission here on earth. He would say they will destroy this temple, but in three days it will be built again. He of course was talking about the death, burial, and Resurrection. We must take time and speak what the vision is while creating a plan to accomplish it.

2. Plans are guide rails to steer me and keep me on focus. The more focus I am, the better I am able to deliver what God has spoken. Abraham prophesied that God would provide and He did. He didn't know how, but knew God has able and would come through for him.

3. Refuse to look back Fight the good fight of faith. Refute the enemies words, thoughts, and your emotions with the Word of God. God will do His part and it will come to pass.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Promotion Comes from the Lord

2011-07-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

Promotion is something that most people work hard to do. Whether it is a position at work, in your spiritual walk with God, He is always at work. God placed a desire in us to desire better. This desire can be altered by our view point of how to acquire what we desire.

The question comes into play how? Why? and many other questions. But the bible is very clear about the way to achieve the promotion. It starts out by instructing us in the book of Psalm 75:6-7 ⁶For promotion cometh neither from the East, nor from the West, nor from the South.⁷But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another. You see the promotion is ultimatly determined by God. You might say why would God give a position I have been working for to someone that is less qualified, or ungodly.

The reason is sometimes it's delayed, but it does not mean a denial. It could be God is setting you up for a better promotion and if you take this one it could alter what God desires for you to do. Also God is building you up. He is setting you and placing you for the right position for your life. Remember the foot steps of a good man or woman is ordered by the Lord. When we do our part, God will guide us by His Spirit to the place where there is abundance of peace, joy, love, and grace. He may lead you to a different place, but stay focus. Your promotion is coming from the Lord.

So what do I do in the mean time?

1. Continue to allow God to prepare you.

2. Stay Focused. A focused life is a life that is diciplend and is flixiable, teachable, and consitently ready to puresure God's will in every area of there life.

3. Refuse to allow anything or anyone to distract you from all that God has for you.

4. Relax. God has it in control.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Our perception in life will be a direct reflection of where and how we achieve in it. When God places you somewhere God has a perspective on that area. God will never dilute or change what He expects.

When Faith Speaks

2011-06-21T20:06:00.001-07:00

Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. By faith Noah built an ark even though it had not rain in years. By faith Abraham acquired all that God said was his. By faith Gideon over came an army of thousands with only 300 men. By faith Peter walked on the water toward Jesus. By faith 3 Hebrews refused to compromise and was thrown into the fire, but came out unharmed. By faith Daniel stayed faithful to God and God delivered him from the lions. By faith we walk by faith. Don't limit the faith you have in Christ. If God before you who can be against you. You are worth more than the world.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Protected

2011-06-21T14:08:00.001-07:00

You have been gifted to live a life that is effective and changing the world. Don't let go of what God has said, instead speak what He has already spoken. Relax your best days are still ahead of you.

In the book Psalms chapter 91 verse 16 it tells us "with long life God will satisfy us." He is in the business of protecting us for life. He is our spiritual protector.

We can go aside from His protection by not following His lead. When someone comes onto you, don't allow yourself to get flattered, stop the feeling by refusing to allow it to seduce you. Walk away, call someone, but don't stay there. If you get temped to settle, or lie about a situation, refuse to move toward it, the reason is you are leading yourself outside God's protect.

1. Leaders lead with God's protection in every area of your life. The bible tells us in the Book of first John chapter 2 verse 27 the Holy Spirit will teach us all truths. It's the strategy to accomplish what God has spoken for us to do.

The strategy is the road map you and I need to define and accomplish the vision/goals in our life.

2. The strategy we use is not just about the end, but it is the means to the end.

3. The protection God has for each of us will allow us to move beyond our boundaries, but stay within His protection. It's not ignorance or foolishness, but faith in His plan.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

The drought has ended

2011-06-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's raining. It has come. When Elijah was ready to pray, he told the servant what do you see? It was not until the seventh time the servant saw a cloud the size of a man's hand. It's was the sign the rain was coming.

I know there has been a draught, but I declare to you today, the draught has ended. Just like Elijah, when we see what God is saying, the draught has ended. It was not raining yet, but the cloud was indicative the rain was coming.

Today, know the draught in your life has ended. It's over and the victory is yours.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Before you Get There

2011-06-13T16:54:00.000-07:00

Did you know "the place" God has called you to, He has already prepared for you? Yes, that is right, God knows the end from the beginning. The strategy he has placed in your heart to accomplish his will may seem complex, but He will provide resources as fuel for your vision and God given destiny.

When God spoke to Abraham telling him to travel to the land of Canaan, little did he know he would be welcomed by a famine. No one wants to follow the will of God into a famine. What do you do when you arrive to a place, directed by God and there is famine in the land?

Crying is not an option. Turning back is not an option. Giving up is not an option. Pressing forward is the only option. Pressing forward is the only solution. As you assess your situation, you may think "what do I have to offer" this land in famine?

Show them a better way of living friend. Show them famine is not the lifestyle God intends for us to live.

Unexpected

2011-06-07T08:22:00.001-07:00

Life can bring unexpected situations our way. But when we have a daily communication with God, there is opportunity for God to speak to us about the unexpected.

When things occur in our life, it's not a time to doubt God or feel nothing is going to work out. God is able to do abundantly above we can think or ask according to the power that works in us. This time is a time to speak and confess what His word says.

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

God knows the way out and the way in. He knows how to make all things possible.

I don't know where you are currently at, but don't allow fear, regret, and doubt to consume your mind. God has a plan and strategy to accomplish all that He has called you to do.

Here are some points to ponder when the Unexpected happens.

1. Never regret- Regretting only causes us to formulate a solution based upon what we think should of happened, or what could have really happened. Either way. God says in His word the latter will be greater than the formal. God still has God opportunities for us.

2. Always know God is working on your behalf- Romans 8:28 tells us -And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

3. Cast down or throw down every thought that is opposite of God's will. The Message bible says it like this: II Corinthians 10:5.... We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ.....

4. Heaven and earth will pass away but God's word will never pass away. What He has said will come to pass.

No matter where you are right now as you read this. When you give what you are going through to God, He will open a door that no man can shut and shut the door that no man can open. Your best life is still ahead.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Premium Living

2011-06-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

Some measure “premium living” contingent on where they live, what they drive, where their education was acquired, what their current title, position and income are; however, that is not God’s definition.

God intends for us to live a premium life, but it’s more about the internal, not external; more about the essentials vs. the non-essentials. You see, what we wear, where we live, what we do for a living, and how much we make, does not define us.

Our definition of who we are should be what the word says we are. My friend Joel Osteen who pastors Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas has his church family quote this every Sunday. It reminds me of premium living.

“This is my bible. I am what it says I am . I have what it says I have. I can do what it says I can do….”

They have a whole statement about believing the word of God and allowing it to shape and define them. Sometimes in life we can fall prey to believing intrusive thoughts. Thoughts such as, we aren’t going to make it, beginning again is too hard, I have arrived, I’m at the end of my rope.

I’m here to announce today that there is hope at the end of your rope. That God has a plan and purpose for your life. If you are 20, 35, 44, 58 whatever your age, it’s never too late to begin again, dream again and live again. Premium living is living life according to God’s plan. God’s plan is found in His word. His word is our road map in life. It helps us through valleys and mountains. Encourages us through the good, the bad and ugly of life. Following God’s road map does not eliminate obstacles, hard times, and such; but I assure you that while not everything comes from God, He will use it to work for your good. Premium living is in reach. Reach up, allow God to reach in and together live life to the fullest!

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Hazardous Work

2011-06-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

In Matthew 10:16 The Message says it like this: "Stay alert. This is hazardous work I'm assigning you. You're going to be like sheep running through a wolf pack, so don't call attention to yourselves. Be as cunning as a snake, inoffensive as a dove.

When I think of serving God, it is hazardous work. We uphold God's standard of living. It's taking His road all the time. It can be dangerous at times.

So, the question is how do you stay connected, committed, and passionate toward God and His calling without constantly being in defense mode?

Here are some points:

1. Stay focused. Many times situations occur simply because of life. Jesus said I send you forth as sheep running through a wolf pack. He was telling us life has wolves; don't be afraid.

2. Be practical. In life we can prevent things from happening, simply by doing the practical.

3. Be not afraid. II Timothy 1:7 God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Psalms 23:5 Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life. Psalms 91:7 one thousand will fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but no evil will come near you. God knows how to protect us.

Remember God will never leave you nor forsake you. He knows the ending from the beginning.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Begin Again

2011-05-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

There are times in our life we must begin again. This new beginning is not something that has not been done before, but a rebirth of what God has said will come to pass.

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have toward you. Plans to prosper you.

God's plans are always for us to acquire the best in life. Even when we end up in a dead end, God knows how to navigate us back to the place where we can experience His best. Beginning Again is living the dream. It's living a life that is active and productive and effective in every area of your life.

Jesus said. My God shall supply all of my needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. He will and is doing it. Think forward in your thinking.

The limits of what people have said, done, or are doing. The world takes limits off but not for God's glory. Take every weight or idea that God has not told you and replace it with God's vision.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

What are you waiting for?

2011-05-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever known something and did not know how to acquire it? God knows the strategy, methods, and connections needed to acquire it.

God told Israel I have set the land before you go and possess it.

It says it like this in Deuteronomy 1:8 K.J.V. Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them.

God had already made a way to acquire the land or place. This place might be walled up like Jerecho was, but if you apply His strategy you will be sure to acquire the set land.

Here are some tips on acquiring the Set Places

1. Never limit God. When someone experiences increase, we tend to settle and place a period. It's not over.

2. Continue to possess the land in its entirety. We have not arrived. There much more territory to possess.

3. Don't look back. Looking back can be one of the greatest distractions and settlers of all time. The reason is, if you look back, it says this is farther than you have gone before, and then it also can express to you all the pain you went through to arrive at where you are currently at.

4. One last one is =Until you check out of this world, continue to possess the land.

Go for it!

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

How to Stay in your Lane.

2011-05-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

When a race begins each runner is given a lane. No matter what if the runner crosses into the other lane, they are disqualified. This is the same for us. God has given us each a lane. The lane is what God has purposed in our life. This race the race of our life. Not to compete against each other, but to complete what the Lord has called us to do.

Paul said at the end of his life. I have run My race. He stayed in his lane and did not cross over. He was willing to fight the good fight of faith and not entangle with non-essitials in life. He was willing to create a revolution and do his creative best that God had given him.

Joel 2:7 and they did not brake rank. They all stayed in their lane. You are the only one that can run in that lane. There have been others that have run before you, but you are now the only one running in that lane.

I want to encourage you to run your race. Don’t look at other ministries, or families, or business and say “Man if I had that I could”, no God has the lane for you to run. That is why Hebrews 12:1 tells us to strip down and throw aside every un nessacary weight. It could be low-self esteem, high self esteem, pride, arrogance. Maybe you have been taken advantage of or regret some choices made. Whatever it might be, throw it to the side and run the Race and stay in your lane that God has for you.

So at the end you can say like Paul I have run My race and now is laid up for me a crown of jewels.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Purpose in your Pain

2011-05-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

I was recently ask to write an article in one of our local News Paper's Faith Column. Here it is.

In life we experience seasons. Some seasons seem to have more obstacles then we would care to take on. Living in faith can be a challenge when we are experiencing stress, struggle and strain on different levels. Today, I want to encourage you to redefine life. L.I.F.E stands for living in faith every day.

Choose to begin again and dream again. I know it is not easy; but it’s possible. The bible teaches us that with God all things are possible. You see, God is the president and CEO of the universe. He knows the ending from the beginning. When we look to Him, we can begin to see what He has purposed for our life.

I don’t know your pain and all you have had to walk through. I do know a God who can take our tragedy and use it for a strategy; a setback for a set up. It’s in our pain that purpose can be formed. When King David took office, The Lord gave him favor and took the amalgamation of his life experiences and mixed it together for his good. No matter what you have experienced or what you are currently walking through, be encouraged. God is working things out and can use this pain by turning it into purpose for our life if we give it to Him.

Start your comeback today!

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Seize the moment

2011-05-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

Seizing the God moments in our life is what will cause us to advance in life. God moments come and then they go. It took Israel 40 years instead of 4-10 days to reach the promise land. The reason was because they failed to see what God was seeing.

He saw them acquiring and overthrowing the land. He saw them establishing His name. He saw them building, advancing the kingdom and reaching their full potential. God is seeing the exact same things about you and I.

He see you reaching your full potential. He sees you being promoted on your job. Excelling in that career. If it means to go back to school or do something different, then do it. The Israelites cheated themselves out of 40 years because they refused to take and seize God's opportunities.

Today, I want to encourage you to seize every God opportunity that comes your way. You will be the better for it.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Shift

2011-04-27T15:12:00.001-07:00

If you have ever driven a standard, you know that shifting is necessary to slow down or speed up. You can grind the gears if someone does not know how to shift the gears. In life we must know how to shift the gears with grinding them.

When it comes to our relationships, economic status, and emotions, we have to know when to shift. Every time Jesus was talking to the disciples, He would shift the gears. He would say something like this:

John 21:15-17 (New Living Translation)

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”

“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.

¹⁶ Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”

“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.

¹⁷ A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.

The first two replies by Peter was a basic response of friendship. It was not until the third time Peter responded with the correct love. Jesus had positioned a shift. Peter became hurt and angry because he was not shifting. This is the same way in our life. God begins to speak to us to do something and we do it in the same gear we did something else. We like Peter become angry, hurt, disappointed, frustrated, and even to the point of giving up. The reason is because we did not shift the gears. What He is asking us to do requires us to shift the gears.

I want to encourage you today to shift the gears. Move toward God's plan, purpose, and destiny in your lives.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Part 2 of Making of a Man

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I want to continue with "Making of a Man Part 2." God is into making us in every area of our life. It starts with having the same spirit of faith.

There are 7 components that make up the same Spirit of Faith or Same DNA

And here they are:

1. Hear ( Romans 10:13-17) We can not have the same spirit of faith without hearing and hearing what God's is saying through our Pastor/Leader.

2. Believe (see, take, keep) Mark 9:23 if you can believe all things are possible. It's believing in what God is saying through the Man of God.

3. Speak (see what you speak) Acts 3:6-8 If we only speak what we see, then we will only go so far. But if we see what we are saying, then we will reach our full potential.

4. See ( speak what you see) II Cor. 4:7 When we see what we speak, then we will speak what we see. It's God that performs the miracle. This allows us to never give up no matter what goes on in our lives.

5. Receive –Mark 4:24 They received what God was saying to them. We must do the same and we will be able to receive all that God has for us.

6. Keep- Proverbs 4:23 We must keep what God has spoken to us and not allow anything or anyone to extract it out.

7. Increase-Matthew 12:35 We must increase what God has given through the Man or Woman of God in our life and performance. We increase it by hearing, believing what you hear, speaking what you have heard and believed, then seeing what you have spoken, then are we able to receive it, we are then able to keep it, and then we can increase it.

More to come

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Change

2011-04-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

Change is present. For the past few weeks I have been sensing a change in my spirit. It's a change of destiny. In the last several days, it has begun to get stronger.

If you are experiencing change, I want to give you some points on what to expect.

1. Be willing to flow with it. The disciples were constantly asking Jesus "why" "when" they could not understand everything He was saying, but as they followed, it became clear. So it is with us, follow Him and you will see.

2. Change is uncomfortable. If someone is remodeling a house, there are quite a few dis confronts. Don't allow the dis confront get you distracted from acquiring what you have been praying, fasting, obeying and following through on. Your Next!

3. The opposition you are sensing is only part of the process to pull out of us what God has put in us. He has placed in us the ability to withstand the pressure and to lean upon Him for our outsource.

4. Relax, God will do what He has said. He will bring the help needed to deliver and accomplish what He has placed in you.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

The Making of a Man Part 1

2011-03-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

In a society we live in, we are accustomed to instantaneous. From eating to building a house. A person will only stay at a job for a little while, then jump to the next best thing. It happens also in marriage, relationships, and other areas of our life.

We are accustomed to making something that does not last. But God desires to make us so that we will not jump ship or void the vision and goals in our life. It's like working at a job that requires a degree, but never going through the process. There is a process to being a made minister.

So, today I want to start this out with first talking about son ship and what it encompasses.

In II Corinthians 4:13 It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.”Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak. This scripture verse sets the stage for son ship.

Paul tells us to have the same spirit of faith. Having the same spirit of faith is the same as the same DNA. Now, do not confuse same spirit of faith or DNA as cloning. You do not have to look the same to have the same spirit of faith. You do not have to dress the same to have the same spirit of faith. But you must speak and believe the same. I will take it a little farther and say you do not have to have the same language, but what you say must mean and interpret the same.

In Numbers 11:16-17 God speaks to Moses and tells him, "Gather together seventy men from among the leaders of Israel, men whom you know to be respected and responsible. Take them to the Tent of Meeting. I'll meet you there. I'll come down and speak with you. I'll take Some of the Spirit that is on you and place it on them; they'll then be able to take some of the load of this people—you won't have

to carry the whole thing alone. God was placing Moses spirit upon the seventy. He was giving them Moses DNA.

We are spirit, soul, and body in I Thessalonians 5:23 it speaks to us by saying. "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole Spirit and Soul and Body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Greek word for spirit is pneuma. Pneumatikos is spiritual. By spiritual beings we look like God by virtue of the spirit. Thus we are Spirit beings having a human encounter. That is why we can sense something happening even though there might not be tangible evidence seen. But is sensed spiritual.

God will speak to us who to appoint and He will place our spirit on them. )I will describe how to appoint the right people to leadership latter in another blog) That is why it's important to lay hands on the people and release your spirit upon them. That is why Paul wrote about the same spirit of faith. If you want your organization to grow, ask God to place your spirit upon the congregation. They will begin to talk like you do and follow the God in you.

I can always recognize how the Pastor acts by the members act. If the people are arrogant, then the pastor is arrogant. If the people are joyous and it's exciting to be around them, then the Pastor is the same way. Your congregation should be a reflection of you. We are not talking about cloning, but just like a shirt, there should be the signature that identifies that as your spirit.

More to come.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Facing Fact

2011-03-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest mistakes people can make is not be aware of what God is doing or sayings.

We can mistake what has happened and what is happening as the same.

Circumstances should never deviate us from accomplishing all that God has entrusted us with. One time as a child I was with my dad and we were going to an event on a military base. The entrance to the base started in one city and the other entrance was at another city. At the end of the event my dad tried to go back to the entrance where we lived. The problem was it was blocked off. We had to go through the other entrance that would take us 20 minutes to get home instead of 5 minutes. At the same time we where hungry younger brother and sister where in the car too. It took us longer, but we made it home.

This is sometimes the way life is. We are placed on a detour, but God never intended for us to detour away from what God is saying. What He has said will come to pass, but what He is saying brings what He has said to past. Listen to what He is sayings. Because this is your key to the next step.

1. Remove all past feelings. Your feelings can side track you and bring you to a place where you nor God intended to be.

2. Listen. Listen to what He is saying. His voice speaks volumes. What He is saying will bring forth what He has spoken. Example: God spoke to you that you would travel the world. You did the practical, now, listen to what He is saying right now. What He is saying right now will get you to travel the world. It's what He is saying.

3. Reposition yourself is needed to follow through on what He is saying. When the children of Israel came to the promise land the bible tells us the manna stopped. It was not a week latter after they settled in, no immeditely it stopped. It goes on to say they never saw manna again. (Joshua 5:12) As you move on what He is saying, the transition will happen. Israel never again saw the manna because the season had ended.

Don't look back, your in a season of change and It will come to pass

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Fly your kite

2011-03-13T22:19:00.000-07:00

This past weekend to kick off Spring Break, I took the boys to fly kites. We've tried this several times before but the wind was never strong enough on days we went out. This day was different. With new Star Wars kites in hand, we headed out to the park. My youngest son Matthew was able to get his kite up before his older brother. It was flying high and strong. Immediately, everyone took note. When Mark saw that his younger brother was flying his kite first, he shouted "good job Matt, that is awesome!" I was so proud at that moment, because he demonstrated the spirit of our house. He encouraged and celebrated his younger brother getting his kite off the ground. Soon after, we had Mark's kite up flying high and strong.

I was reminded of Pastors, leaders, siblings, churches, neighboring businesses and thought what if we encouraged and celebrated each other even though we are not off the ground first? Instead of trying to destroy, slander or bash someone who is hitting the mark; encourage them. My son demonstrated the Kingdom example of encouraging and celebrating one another.

The bible says in Hebrews 10:25 (NLT) .... but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

So today, I want to encourage you to encourage and celebrate someone this week. Maybe you're not a pastor, maybe your other sibling acquired their house before you, just got engaged while you are still waiting for the right one. Maybe it's the new employee at the office who was promoted while you were over-looked. Is it a neighbor who got that car you've had your eye on? Maybe you are a Pastor and Pastor So & So is touring their third book and you are just trying to get your first one published. Encourage and celebrate someone this week. Before you know it, your kite will be off the ground and we'll all be celebrating you and what God has done in your life.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Faith - Foolishness and Presumption

2011-03-07T11:36:00.000-08:00

There is a difference between faith, foolishness, and presumption. We can think something is faith, when it's not. The question comes into play is, when is it faith?

Well, Hebrews chapter 11 verse one tells us: "Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen." Faith is constantly on the move. Where faith goes that is where you and I are to go.

Faith is trusting in Christ and what He has said and is saying.

The word Now is present tense. Faith is always present tense. Faith is moving. The

question is how do you determine if it's foolish or presumptions?

1. Foolishness is acting out on complete stupidity or ignorance.

2. Presumption is assuming it will just happen. Nothing in life just happens.

There is a cause and effect. The bible tells us to count the cost; don't assume.

3. Faith is Forward in Action in Trusting Him. It's saying yes to what God has already

spoken. It's not assuming, but acting upon what God has already spoken for you to do.

If you have moved out in foolishness or presumption; simply ask God to forgive you.

He knows your heart and your intention. God has a way of working all things for our good.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Force

2011-03-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

There can be times in life where the right decisions are crucial. It's at that point the decisions must not be based off of merely stats, but upon what the Holy Spirit is saying.

I want to give you some points on listening to His voice verses listening to the voice of the enemy. Remember before Jesus stepped out on seen, nobody knew who He was. But when He read the Sept and said today the scripture is fulfilled; God began to promote Him. After 40 days in the wilderness, He step out and fed 5 thousand plus.

It's all about God's timing. I want to encourage you not to give up or give into what you may not be seeing right now.

So, here are some points on Timing.

1. Timing is everything. When Jesus came forth, it was the right time. Don't move before your timing.

2. Move when it is your time. Don't wait and see, when the time comes, move.

3. Live with an expectation all the time. Have an expectation that it's your time.

4. Submit to the authority in your life and when it is your time, you will sense it and move out. Jesus submitted to His parents even though He was about His fathers business.

5. When your timing comes, be willing to shift with the change. When Jesus stepped out, He stopped being a carpenter and moved right into ministry. Elisha let go of everything that would hold him back from reaching his full potential.

The need will get you there, but the call will keep you there. Listen to the one giving the call.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Letting go of Regret

2011-02-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you have ever had anything happen to you in life, you can build an attitude of regret. This one word, "Regret," can cause someone to miss out on all that God has for them. One can think "if I only had done that then, I would not be in this boat now." It could be true, but looking back and regretting is not God's will.

Jesus said to cast all your cares upon me. That even includes regret!!!

Here are some ways to over come regretting:

1. STOP dwelling on what could of and should of, but what God is speaking now.

2. There is a difference from what God has said and what God is saying. It's what He is saying is what we move on. What He has already said, will come to pass. But what he is saying is what He currently wants you and I to do.

3. Be willing to admit to God how you feel, then allow Him to heal your heart. He has the healing ointment to heal.

4. God knows how to redeem the time. He knows how to take the impossible situations and make them possible.

5. Know your Greatest days are still ahead. God believes in you.

6. Start believing in yourself.

He that began a good work will perform it... IT will come to pass.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Forced to Release

2011-02-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

I like what Job 8:7 tells us. It says "And though your beginning was small, yet your latter end would greatly increase." The bible goes on to say do not despise small beginnings.

It can be difficult in a world that is looking for instant success to allow ourselves to think because something or someone is not producing quick enough to stop. We have to be willing to go all the way to acquire all that God has.

I want to encourage you today to stay with it. Don't allow discouragement to set in. You could be one breath away from what God said is yours. Even Jesus at Gethsemane ask the cup to pass, but did not quit and drank it. Thank God He did not give up!

Remember one sign that you are almost there is the fact you want to give. You're destined to succeed. Don't underestimate God and His power in your life.

1. Be willing to go the extra mile. Nobody achieved anything without a fight. They had to go through to get through.

2. Rehearse what God has already said is yours.

3. Do not look and think it's too hard and too long. In Nehemiah, when the people began to rebuild the wall of the city, the people began to get discouraged. They did because they were all in one place, so Ezra told them to spread themselves out. They were able to build quicker and accomplished the goal.

4. Nothing with God is too hard.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

For the Sake

2011-02-22T11:05:00.000-08:00

Obedience can cause sacrifice. But the obedience you follow will bring unlimited dividends to your life. It's all for the Sake of the Gospel.

Here are a few points on For the sake of the Gospel:

1. Jesus is married to the Church. Period. He is the bridegroom and we are the bride. When we place this in our mind we then can place the projects in His hand and receive clear order.

2. The present day sacrifice will not go unrewarded. Hebrews 11:6 states he is rewarder of those who seek Him.

3. God applauds you and does not take it lightly what you are sacrificing.

4. Never look back. I Tim 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

5. What you are sacrificing for His sake, He will redeem the time.

All for the Sake of the Gospel

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Distractions

2011-02-22T09:34:00.000-08:00

Distractions - they come in many forms. They cause frustration, irritation, take up time and sometimes money.

In today's world everything is vying for our attention. Twitter updates, Facebook feeds, meetings, calls, follow ups, daily business and the like.

How do you create down time to hear from your Maker? Remember that God requires alone time to feed your relationship. Put a hold on controllable distractions and unless the building is burning down let people know not to disturb you. Get your time in with the Father.

Consecrated

2011-02-17T14:21:00.001-08:00

Consecration occurs when you are going to do something with purpose. For instance, an athlete will change his or her diet to reflect on where there going. They will have set routines added to their normal activity. The reason is they are consecrating themselves for event.

Consecration is not an isolation, but a separation. God separates us into His Kingdom and releases us back into the world not to be like it, but to show them the God we serve.

This is what consecration bring?

1. Healing. There are times we need to step aside and allow God to heal us.

2. A place of refreshing. Whenever you read about Jesus after a large meeting, He would go away by himself and refresh Himself. He showed us a pattern of consecration.

3. It causes us to have a clear focus on what He has called us to do.

4. It's where God's clear instructions comes from. When God told Moses to consecrate himself, for tomorrow He was going to speak to Him.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

People of Purpose

2011-02-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

It's very important to be persistent to what God desires for us to do. The bible is clear about being persistent in pursing Him. Matthew 6:33 tells us to seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added.

Jacob in the bible was a man that wrestled with God. He was willing to go all the way to acquire all that God had for Him. Elijah followed God to the place that the river which gave him water dried up. He knew God would provide for him and He did. Jesus went to the cross for our sins. He followed God all the way.

The question is, are you willing to do what it takes to follow God's purpose and plan for your life all the way? These people were people of purpose and destiny.

Pursing after God, will cause you to connect to people of purpose and destiny.

Here are some points on how to connect with people of destiny.

1. Never allow fear or intimidation to rule your life. Instead allow God to breathe His breath of purpose and destiny into your spirit.

2. Have God's favor released upon your life. When we seek first His kingdom, we are positioning ourselves for His favor.

3. Allow the Holy Spirit to connect you. Just by being around people of destiny and purpose, their spirit and faith will rub off on you.

4. Catch the next move of what He is saying by having an open heart to do His will.

5. You be you.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

When

2011-02-12T18:39:00.000-08:00

Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. It's by faith we walk and it's by faith we see things. It's when faith makes sense we come to the acknowledgement of who He is.

His instructions are for our best interest. It's when an individual has a revelation of who they are, they begin to act differently, they watch where they go, not only to protect their reputation, but to make sure nothing will hinder them from pursuing their purpose in Christ.

Jesus said you have not because you ask not. If you ask you will receive. The reason an individual asks is because they have come to the acknowledgement of who He is. He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above what we ask or imagine according to the power that works in us.

When faith makes sense to us is when we begin to act, communicate, respond, and make decisions based on what God has spoken for us to do without regretting. The reason is we have come to know who He is.

Don't place yourself in a box or refine to one criteria of doing what God has called you to do. Even if you have failed, or it seems as though it's not going the way you thought or prayed about, hold on. Keep the revelation of who He is and as you step out in faith on what He has spoken to do you will know God is there.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Positioned for Success

2011-02-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

It can be easy to become discouraged when you are not seeing the progress needed to acquire what God has given you.

How do you stay encouraged and encourage others? First off, when you encourage each others, you build them up. At the same time you begin to build yourself up.

Here are some points on "How to stay encouraged and encourage others"

1. The bible instructs us we are not to be conformed into the image of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind. This means the only way I can encourage someone else is by renewing my mind with the Word of God. Find scriptures which encourage you and continue going. Like for example Mark 9:23 with God nothing is impossible.

2. The Law of Reciprocity-If you are feeling down, find someone to encourage and you will feel encouraged too. It's a fixed law what you sow or give you get back pressed down shaken together and running over.

3. Don't ever think a step back is a set back. Sometimes going back can get you farther than continuing where you are currently at.

4. We must not loose hope of what God has called us to do. He said with Him nothing is impossible. Nothing absolutely nothing is impossible.

Here are some people that doubted their doubts and believed what He had said would come to pass.

King David- He was back against a corner and no one was with him, but the bible states he encouraged himself in the Lord.

You- Yes you are an example of an encourager. When you read this you were encouraged, now go out and encourage others.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Right Spot

2011-02-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

In life we deal with all type of issues. Sometimes it is as simply as what to eat, what to wear etc. Then there are times when only God can expose and show one the right way. It's what I call finding the Right Spot.

God has the right spot for every season in our life. When Jacob in the bible was with his father-in-law God made the animals that he had to multiply. It was because Jacob was in the right spot. When you go to Starbucks they have a hot spot. This is where any one that comes in is able to connect to the Internet. It's when we obey God we arrive in the hot spot. People should want to listen and follow you and I because we are constantly in the Hot spot.

The question to day is are you in the Right or Hot Spot? Churches should be the Hot Spot. We should be able to connect people directly to God without any problems.

I encourage you today to get to the Right or Hot Spot in your life and when you leave, wi-fi yourself so that wherever you go you can connect to Him and show others how to connect to Him.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Yes Lord

2011-02-01T07:14:00.001-08:00

What if you came home and God told you that all you need to do to access all the He has is to follow me in every area of your life would you say "Yes Lord." God's promises for our life are predicated upon us saying "Yes Lord"

Let me explain it like this. A child is asked to pick up something, the child reply's why? instead of Yes Sir or Yes Mam. Because of what the child said, he or she has just placed a road block to them acquiring anything they would like to purchase or do at that moment. Now as soon as he or she is corrected and they complete the task, then are resumed into good standing.

So it is with us. When we tell God -Why me? What about them? we place road blocks from acquiring what He has desired for us. But as soon as we repent we resume into the place to receive what He has already said is ours. It's by His grace.

Here are some points to how to say "Yes Lord"

1. Condition your heart to yield to God. Yielding to God means you are willing "To Do" whatever the request is.

2. Never ever Say "No to God"

3. Position yourself by constantly avoiding the distraction that would hinder you from acquiring what God has already spoken. Positioned for good success.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Faith Exposed

2011-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

Our faith is sometimes placed in the wrong place. Sometimes it's placed in people we trust and have depended upon. Sometimes it is placed in a career or in financial security. But when those people, career, or financial security become unfaithful what do you do?

You see Colossians 3:11 tells us: Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us. He is telling us to place our focus on Him so that when things don't turn out the way we thought, our faith is not miss placed but in the right place which in Christ.

I want to encourage you to make sure every area of your life your faith is placed in Him. This enables one to fulfill their entire destiny in Life.

Here are a few points to lean on

1. We are designed to trust God. So ask Him for the right direction.

2. Don't use anything that has a happened as an excuse. Many times we have legitimate excuses, but don't rely on them.

3. Face the fact, but speak the truth into the situation.

4. Lastly never ever give in. God will and has promised it will all come together.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Blown

2011-01-25T11:28:00.000-08:00

When I was a teenage I was performing an illustration at an event. Long story short I tore my A.C.L. (Anterior cruciate ligament ) on my knee. It took me a while to fully recover. With therapy and prayer I was able to regain full capacity of my knee. Sometimes in life it brings us a blow.

It can sideline you and sometimes cause per meant damage. But God said in His word in Mark 9:23

If you can believe all things are possible. He was telling us you can regain what you lost and accomplish

all that God has called you to be. Jesus asked a man that was sick if he wanted to be healed. At first the man began to

tell Him why he could not recover, but Jesus interrupted and said get up and walk. At that very moment He could walk again.

Today wherever you are at, whatever type of bad news that would cause you to be side or whether everything is going great,

know God has sent you a word that with Him nothing is impossible and you will walk and thrive again. Allow God to restore you.

4 steps to regaining your steps

1. Don't make excuses

2. Give it to God.

3. Except His forgiveness

4. Move On- Refuse to allow time to be an indicator of whether you are where you need to be.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Don't Underestimate God

2011-01-21T08:20:00.001-08:00

I have been fasting tomorrow for 21 days. It has been the first time in over 2 years I have been able to do a full 21 day fast. (meaning nothing but liquids) I give God all the glory. I was in an accident 2 1/2 years ago. We had just acquired a location for the church and the very next week I had the accident. I should have been severally crippled or possibly dead. But God knew the plan and intercepted death. It has taken a while, but I have come full circle.

There is one thing the Lord has always reaffirmed is His word will not return back void. I want to encourage you no matter what has happened to you, even though it might have seemed like a set back, God knows how to bring an epic return.

I'm more grateful than ever to God. Even though this happened God still performed great opportunities, and I have seen more people than ever come to Christ. I thank my wife for her support and constantly encouraging me to reach all that God has. God taught me many things but one thing is- When God's word goes forth, no one or situation will change what God has spoken for you to do as long as you continue to stay focused on Him.

Stay encouraged. Even though the enemy tried his best, his best could not compete with God's promises. Don't allow yourself to get discouraged. God will do it no matter what.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

I Will

2011-01-19T06:01:00.000-08:00

Have you said the word I will to someone? I have many times and try very hard to keep what I have committed too. Jesus ask a variety of people to follow Him, many said yes, and many said no. The thought comes into play is the reason we say no to what God asks us to do could be because we don't see what He sees.

For instance, if God told you to twitter, text, or even call someone and ask for their forgiveness even though it was not you but them, would you do it? If He told you to buy someones lunch or give something away would you say "I Will". It's not easy to say I will, but it feels really good once you do it.

This is what Isaiah said.

Isaiah 6:8 (Amplified Bible) Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for Us? Then said I, Here am I; send me

Isaiah was willing to do all that God had called Him to be. He was willing to say "I will." So the question is are you going to say "I will" to God and to His purpose in your life? Are you going to say "I will" to something that will cost you for the sake of the gospel? Timothy said "l Will" even though he had to be circumcised at a late age. Paul said "I Will" and preached the gospel.

I pray you say "I Will" to every instructions and request God asks you to do. You could be only a step away from your destiny. God knows!

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Imagine

2010-12-30T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Theme or montra for this year is Imagine. Imagine Life. Imagine what It would be like if we touched heaven and changed. earth.

The bible states the Kingdom of God suffereth violence but the violence taketh by force. It's the ones who imagined what It would be like and did what was needed to accomplish what they have imagined.

Today, what are looking at -are you dreaming or imagining. Maybe it's a healthy family, or finacial increase. Maybe it's being all that God has designed us to be. It's all in you and with God on your side you will be all that He has called us to be.

Today, and for 2011 Imagine. Don't let anything or anyone take you away from imagining Life with God.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Fasting

2010-12-28T11:50:00.000-08:00

On January 02 we will start our corporate 21 day fast. I wanted to give this to you. Here are some points on fasting.

This is what the bible explains to us about fasting.

Isaiah 58:6 New International Version

⁶ “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?

In the New Testament Jesus states this Mark 9: 29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

There are things in our life that we are not able to acquire or change without fasting.

Fasting spiritually connects our spiritual man to what God is desiring to do. It causes us to break every yoke that has bond us.

A yoke is something that has one trapped in one place. When you fast it breaks the yoke.

Here are some tips on fasting.

1. Write down a list that you are fasting and praying about. Place scriptures to what you are praying about.

2. Confess what you are believing to happen.

3. Sow a financial seed while you are fasting.

Finally watch God come through for you and see the supper natural happen.

2011 will Be your greatest year!

Chazown

2010-11-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

Woke up today with "chazown" on my mind. It is the greek word for vision.

Without vision people perish. Have the vision of God in your life manifesting.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Avoid Judging Others Failures

2010-11-18T06:52:00.000-08:00

I taught last night about avoiding judging failures in other and how to over come failures. When we judge failures in others we place limitations on our lives.

Let me explain. The bible has a history of men and women who have failed, but came back in an epic way. So, here are points about why not to judge failures in others.

1. What we see does not allow reflect the truth. When you look at Job's life, he was judged on something that had nothing to do with. The issue was not on what he did wrong, but on what he was doing right.

I Samuel 16:7- The Lord does not see as man sees. for man looks or judges on the appearance, but God sees the heart.

Many times we can judge on the outward, but never consult God on the truth.

2. It places limits on our life. When we are judging others, we are placing limitations on our own life. We are telling God you are not big enough to rescue them. You are not big enough to see me through.

I knew a young woman who wanted to go to college and become an attorney. When she was giving her final in High School in a writing class she stood up boldly and read out loud her paper. Everyone around her told her it will take to long and you really will not be able to do it. They gave all the reason why not. So she changed her mind because of them. She placed limits on her own life because of the failures of those students and the lack of vision they had. She now is going back to school to acquire what God originally purposed her to do.

We can see someone start something and fail, don't judge them by the failure they experienced. God is with you and you will succeed.

3. It causes us to walk in a judgemental mindset. People will always judge. I know I have at times, but just like the woman caught in Adultery (in John chapter 8) was acquitted of all her sin not because she was not guilty, but because of God's grace. God has acquitted us and others for what he have and have not done.

Where ever you are at, don't limit God's come back in your life. You are only a step away from success in life.

Get Up. Nothing is to hard from God.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Private, Personal, Public

2010-11-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

I know this is for someone. In life we have a Private, Personal, and Public life.

Our private life should not encounter our personal life or our public life.

1. Our private life consists of you and those you allow in your inner circle. As they say this is private and it's not a secret.

2. Personal- Which is you and God. This is where your relationship with God is developed.

3. Public- This is open for everyone to see.

Now, a secret is not personal or private and there should never be secrets. The bible states that which is done in secret will be made known. So, don't hold onto secrets. When something is private or personal, it's not a secret, it's simply not meant to be disclosed at that time.

Today, implement these into your life and see a better balance when it comes to your life.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Don't Be Moved

2010-11-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

Unlimited

2010-09-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

God's favor is unlimited in our life. God said in His word He would do abundantly above what we can think or ask according to the power that worketh in us.

Here are three points about God's favor.

1.God's favor never runs out. What He did for one He can do for the other. The disciples were disputing among themselves who will be the greatest-Jesus jumps in and takes a little child and sits the child in front of Him. He then says-he that is greatest must humble himself as a little child and is the greatest of all. God was letting them know God's favor does not run out.

2. In God's favor is a place where God wants to do something in your life that is so far beyond your reach that people can only say this is God's doing.

3. His favor will transform you in such a way that it causes you never to think it's you, but Him.

Allow this favor to be released upon you today.

Pastor Mark

It Ends Tonight

2010-09-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever dealt with something and it gets to the place where it's enough. It's at that time when you need to say "it ends tonight."

The failure, the harassment from the enemy. The co-worker who constantly bothers you. The boss that seems to blame it all on you. The client that seems to drag thier feet on issues. The spouse that will not go to church, but you are still speaking the word and expecting a miracle. The financial difficulty. The loneliness, the unforgiveness. It ends tonight.

Many times we allow the enemy to cause us to settle, but God never causes us to settle, but to overcome. When Jesus was through with the testing from the enemy. He said thou salt serve the Lord thy God and Him only will you serve and the devil left Him for a season. (Luke 4:8-9). Jesus was saying it ends tonight.

No matter what you are facing, or going through or about to go through. It ends tonight.

Let it ring "It ends tonight!"

Lay It Down

2010-07-09T22:06:00.001-07:00

The Lord put this on my heart to blog about.

Hebrews chapter Twelve verse One:

Hebrews 12:1 (New Living Translation)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

There is a difference between sin and weight. Sin is that which causes us to miss the mark and separates us from God. The bible states if we confess our sins to Jesus, He is faithful and just to forgive us. Now the question comes in then, what is the weight?

Sin has weight, but the weight here is not sin. The word weight in the Greek is ogkos- it means burden. There are weights or burdens that God says for us to lay down. Religion binds us while relationship with Jesus frees us.

The question is what are the burdens that God desires for us to get free from.

1. Religious jargon. When Jesus came to the Pharisee they would try to manipulate the law and accuse Jesus of not following the law. Yet, they themselves would add to it. They used religious jargon to convince those around them how good they were. We are saved by grace not by works.

2. Hate, unforgiveness, self-righteous attitude. These are weights that cause us to slow down and can even cause us to stop running. Jesus never condemns anyone, He is always looking and pointing out the potential in each of us. John 8:11 The women caught in adultery, He said when all the accusers left, Where are your accusers and the Woman said I see none. He said neither do I condemn you go and sin no more. The key is go!

3. It's any thing or thought that hinders us from serving God to the fullest. It's the non-essentials of life.

Here what it says in Acts 15:28-29

“For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements: ²⁹ You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell.”
They were debating on whether or not they should make all the gentiles get circumsised, because that was the law. So, they realized this was a non-essential. Christ had paid for our sins and He circumcises our heart. Finally they said, live life as Christ did. Do not engage in idol practices and sexual sins.
So, if you have asked the Lord to forgive you, Don't be entangled again with the yoke of bondage(Galatians 5:1) . God wants us to be free of all the weights that would cause us to miss all that He has for our life.
Bless you,
Pastor Mark

New

2010-06-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever bought something new. Maybe a new car or new T.V., computer. Maybe it's a new job or promotion. God wants you to know the New Level He is taking you too, He has already gone before you.

New, is not always the best for everyone. Some like the old and even preferrer to stay with and at it. But God desires each and every one of us to go to the New Level.

If you are going to a New Level whether it is in your marriage, career, social life, or just life in general, here are some points to help you go to the New Level.

1. Expect God to do New things. -When you have an expectation for what God wants, then you will be able to navigate through the different feelings you may acquire on the way.

2. Believe for God to do the unbelievable.

3. Rely on His (God) way of doing things. When David came to King Saul after he had killed Goliath, the bible records that he behaved himself wisely in all his ways. That word wisely is to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely. David knew a new level would require him to act differently in every area of his life and this difference caused him to succeed.

4. Don't be afraid to ask the Lord. Jeremiah 33:3 call unto the Lord and He will answer thee and show thee great and mighty things.

God Blessed,

Pastor Mark

3 W's of Life

2010-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Last year I taught a series about Dreams, Here was the first part.
There are three W’s of life. When, Where, and Wind.

1. Where- It’s the place where God will do what he has placed in your heart.

Genesis 12:1-9- God told Abraham I will bless you in the place. It’s where God instructs us to live and abide.

Here are 6 things to do and not to do:

1. Never look at the surroundings. It will be distracting. Genesis 13:9-11
2. Start Sowing. Genesis 26:12
3. Put your work in. – Go to school, continue confessing the Word of God. Hebrews 6:12
4. Take the limits off of What God said He would do. Isaiah 54:2
5. Allow God to make you. Isaiah 1:19 Paul said in the word of
6. Seek God for the strategy to accomplish the vision. Luke 14:28, Matthew 6:33 –seek first the kingdom
Know whenever God tells you to go, it is never a back step, but a place of promotion.

2. When- It’s the timing of God. Acts 2:1 When the day of Pentecost came. It’s the Kiros Time. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8;11

There are two types of time

1. Chronos refers to chronological or sequential time. Chronos time is measured by the clock and calendar. It is orderly, rhythmic, and predictable.

2. kairos refers to “God’s time.” It is a time, not measured by the clock, where God has chosen “the right moment” or the “opportune” time. Kairos time involves a period of disruption to the normal flow of things. God’s purposes intersecting and overruling the world of chronological time.

So, the question would be how do we get when, here are two ways.

1. Have to be unity. Isaiah 1:19, Psalms 133:1-2, Amos 3:3

2. Stay in the place where God has placed you until. Genesis 26:2 God told Isaac not to go down into Egypt. If he had moved out of the place where God had told him, when would have never happen. Acts 2:1

3. Wind- Is the resources. The wind brings all that you and I need to accomplish all that God has placed in our hearts.
Notice what it states in Acts 2:2 there came a “wind”

So, what happens

1. Breakthrough happens.- get the promotion, build the house, marriage is restored. Hebrews 11:11

2. Don’t stop now, Go and acquire everything God has spoken. You are able to Possess what you have spoken. Hebrews 3:1

This word profession in this scripture verse has dual meaning It means confession and possession.

So what you have confessed go and possess.

Finally
3. Remember. Deuteronomy 8:18 Lastly remember it is God that gives.

For more on the Series email us @ info@breathoflifechurch.com

Bless you,

Pastor Mark

Connected

2010-05-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

WoW! We have been on the go, but thanks be to God the best is yet to come.

There are two reasons why people do not go to church.

1. They don't know about it.

2. They don't recognize the significance of attending a local body.

Being apart of something is our human nature. If we are not apart of something then we begin to withdrawal from others. This is unhealthy. So, how do you increase and cause multiplication within your church.

It's not through negativity, hurt, lies, or manipulations. Influence gone perverted is manipulation. It's God that brings the increase. The bible states it comes in the form of thirty, sixty, and a hundred fold.

In the book of Acts the bible states the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved. The Lord added. God is in the business of blessing your church, business, family, career, but we have to be obedient to His will.

What caused 3000 to be added to the first church was the obedience of 120 people that waited in the upper room. It's never in the quantity, but in the quality. Yes numbers do matter. But God uses what you have.

It's imperative that people know Jesus and that there is a place for them to weekly attend and become apart of. Belonging is what every human being on planet earth desires. We desire to be accepted, loved, and appreciated. It's the Church that should be a safe haven. A hospital to some, a refreshing to others, and most important a place of hope. Connection is the key to good success.

When we express Jesus to others then they begin to see what others see. Our expression should be all about Him.

Today, is Jesus Lord of every area of your life. Is he the center and circumference. The base and the boundary, the sum and substance of what life is all about. If not, then reevaluate and make Him the center in every area of your life. It's not happen chance or coincidental that you stopped by, but by the providential hand of God.

Be Blessed

Pastor Mark

I Have A Dream

2010-02-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

I have a Dream... A dream is an ambition or goal that one wants to accomplish. Dr. Martin Luther King stood in Washington DC. and declared a vision He would not be able to see come to pass on earth; yet the vision was fulfilled.

Do you have a dream? The dream Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had, was not a dream exclusively for or about one ethnicity, culture, or creed. His dream was for all man kind, black, white, brown, male, and female to be treated with respect and dignity. It was a dream of ending not only the racism and bigotry that had plagued our country, but to begin a paradigm shift. To create a cultural shift that would promote a place where people of all economic, social, and ethnicity background could come together for God's glory.

His dream was probably one of the biggest vision cast in the history of Man Kind, besides the one God created. Yes God has a dream too. Genesis 1:28 (King James Version)

And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. God's dream and vision is still being fulfilled today. He has had to change strategies to accomplish it, but we as Christians are able to be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth.

Today, what is your dream? Do not allow anyone or thing to speak doubt into your spirit that it (the Dream) cannot come true. Strategies change, but the vision stays the same. Go after what God has placed in your heart. Remember this, "it's not if ~ it's simply when". It will come to pass. Be encouraged today and go after your dream.

Bless you,

Pastor Mark

Sub-Mission

2010-01-22T08:01:00.001-08:00

WoW! What a week. We have only 1 more day of our 21 day fast. If you didn't get in on it, jump in for these two days. God is so faithful.

1 Peter 5:6 (Amplified Bible)

Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you,

If the question came up what is submission, what would you say?

Here is what Websters dictionary says: the condition of being submissive, humble, or compliant

an act of submitting to the authority or control of another.

Submission is made up of two words. Sub and then mission. Sub which means to be under and mission is a preestablished and often self-imposed objective or purpose. Whenever one submits - it is to come under the mission of the authority. Sub-Mission

So, here are 4 common reasons why people do not submit.

1. They have their own agenda: When you become apart of an organization (i.e. a church or a company) there is an established vision, mission, set patterns, order and culture. As an employee to that organization, a member of your church, a partner in a group, submission to leadership is key. We are to come under that and run with it. Habakkuk 2:2 write the vision down and make it plain. Sometimes, people don't like the respective "order", they want to be the head or incharge and the reality is anything with two heads is a freak. (abnormally formed) Sometimes, people have their own agenda and don't realize that they are out of their measure of rule.

2. They have been hurt before and so place up bounderies of submission. This is probably why most people do not submit. They get hurt from other churches, businesses, co-workers, bosses and other activities. They bring that baggage into the next place. Really they bring that trash into the next place and we all know that trash that is not taken out stinks. When they are shown the order/culture of the organization or house, they reject it, because inside they have not "taken out the trash". They hold onto the trash, saying to themselves, I will NEVER allow this to happen to me again. I will not be taken advantage of, I'm doing this MY way. Really they are declaring they will be unsubmissive. Thus creating a spiritual mutiny to their life. I encourage if you are hurt, allow God to heal you, learn from it, but be plyable, teachable, and then you will be able to stay available.

3. Commitment issues. Every one wants to be apart of a winning team. Many times we don't commit because if it does not work; we do not want to have be associated with them/it. That is why people live together instead of getting married with the "just in case clause". That is why people are always trying to look out for the best in their life. Yes success is intentional, but the bible states unless the Lord builds the house- they that labor labor in vain. I encourage you to put your trust in God sync up with the vision you are currently under.

4. Don't know who they are: Who you are verses, what you do are two totally different things. What you do is not who you are. Who you are is who God has called you to be. He has called you to be victorious. He has made you a champion. You are more than a conqueror. One's financial status, social status, and physical status does not define who you are. Many people will not submit because they do not know who they are and they look at whey they have accomplished or have yet to accomplish. They fail to see we are managers of our life and He is the owner. I encourage you, if you have not submitted because of what you have or don't have, remember that Christ paid for it all and He is the reason for life.

If any of these fit you, I encourage you to allow God to eradicate the area that would not allow you to submit to His will and to do His will, His way. He has never failed, and His stock never go down.

Your better than that and greatness lies within you and whatever has tried to hold you back from reaching your full potential. Submit to God's will, way, and wisdom and see good success in your life.

2010 I AM IN

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Status Quo

2010-01-06T07:54:00.000-08:00

We are on the 6th day of 2010 and excited about this new year and this new decade. What you do today will determine your outcome for tomorrow. Go to 2010 I AM IN.org website it's awesome. We have budget and vision sheets to download. We have spiritual growth through different readings you can download and we have physical fitness. Check it out.

Are you ready for this new year? There are some exciting things we are going to be doing this year at Breath Of Life. Get connected and stay connected. God's plan is that we fulfill His will for our life.

If you are a leader, I encourage you to start the year off right by seeking God's will not only for your life, but for your staff, church and any business you have.

The bible states through scriptures they would always seek God on what He wanted to happen and how. God has the strategy and how to make it happen. When you seek Him, you'll find Him.

This year start it out right by placing God first! You only have one life to live and this is the first of the new year and the new decade. Make it count!

Jude 1:24 (New Living Translation)

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.

Don't fall into the status quo, break it by committing to be all that God has called you to be. If you get off track, go back and refresh yourself. He will keep you from falling. Your only a step away from victory.

2010 I AM IN.ORG

Bless you,

Pastor Mark

2010 I Am In

2009-12-31T14:22:00.000-08:00

WoW! It's a New Year 2010. Happy New Year!!!!!

Have you made any plans yet? Do you want to succeed in every area of your life? Success is intentional, you have to do something to get somewhere.

I encourage you today to start this year by placing God first in your life. Start by going to Church if you have not gone. If you go to church start tithing and connecting to the leadership there. If you are a leader commit to lead by God's example of leading. If you are a pastor, commit to serving God like you have never served Him before.

This can be the greatest year yet, but it will depend upon what choice we make it. Make it count. God is counting on you just as much as you are counting on Him. He will never fail you. Today, take time and write down a vision. Go to www.2010IAMIN.ORG. We have resources for you don't' be left behind, take ownership of 2010. Your best life is still ahead of you.

Bless you,

Pastor Mark

Why I like Christmas

2009-12-21T07:27:00.000-08:00

WOW! If you missed Sunday you will have to go back and view it.

Click Here. http://www.breathoflifechurch.com/lamb_living_at_my_best

Isaiah 9:6 K.J.V.

⁶For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

I love Christmas. I enjoy all the lights, Christmas parties and oh... gotta love those cookies. This can be the best time of year. They show great Christmas movies and spending quality time with the ones you love the most can't compare.

Today I want to encouarge you. Even if you haven’t had such a good year; maybe you didn't have the money to spend on gifts that you really wanted to get. Possibly, your loved ones are not able to be with you this week. I want you to focus on the "The reason for the season". Don't simply look at it as a time to give gifts. While that does make it beautiful, it's not the beauty of of Christmas. Maybe you are in a position, where money available is reserved for bills, food, clothing and other essentials. Instead of looking at it from a natural perspective I encourage you to focus on "the gift" of Jesus. He is the life giver, He will provide and all the gifts are opened He is the gift that remains.

Here are a few reasons I love Christmas

I love to celebrate the birth of Jesus
I love all the sweets and pastries that are made
I love spending time, relaxing with my family - nothing like family time
I love to see the festive light and decorations, resembling Christ being the light of the world
I love Christmas Carols
I love giving gifts: 1st the gift of Jesus 2nd gifts to each other

Comment back and let me know what your reason you like Christmas.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

What about Me?

2009-12-14T08:54:00.000-08:00

WOW! If you missed service go back and view it. Click here. Don’t forget our Christmas Eve Service. Click here for promo.

James 5:20 (The Message) 19-20 My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off; go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.

Life can be selfish at times. Caring more about self than others. Looking out for the best interest, instead of looking out for God’s best interest.

Here in this passage, God is instructing us to look out for the interest of Him. To have compassion on those that have wondered from God's truth. Recently, we had a pro athletes, extra marital affairs exposed. It could be easy to point fingers, ridicule, talk about, laugh at, but I encourage every Christian to pray for him, his wife, children, their family, close friends and all impacted.

In our own, personal and private lives, who is it today that you have not reached out too. What do you need to do to show God’s love and mercy too? It might be to the one that has done you wrong or to someone who owes you money. Who ever, whatever it is, don’t write them off or think it will never change anything.

God cannot lie and what He has said, will come to pass.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Focus

2009-12-11T03:31:00.000-08:00

WOW! What an Awesome Service we had on Sunday. If you missed it, click here to view.

Romans 4:21 (Amplified Bible)
Fully satisfied and assured that God was able and mighty to keep His word and to do what He had promised.

It’s only 15 days away from Christmas. WOW! Are you ready? I want to encourage you to stay focus on finishing the year strong. Don’t look back; your best days are still ahead of you.

This next year is going to be the greatest year of your life. Don’t go into this next year with the baggage of this year. When you’re shopping for Christmas gifts, thank God for blessing you to be a blessing to someone else.
Three ways to stay focused:

1. In our relationship with Christ - The Bible states we walk by faith not by sight.
2. With the vision and goals that God has placed in your heart - Don’t get discouraged, but be encouraged knowing that what He has promised He is able to perform.
3. With our attitude - Attitude reflects altitude. If our attitude is out of line, then we must reposition our attitude to line up with the greatness in us.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

The Experience

2009-12-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

WOW! What an Awesome Service we had on Sunday. If you missed it. Click here and view it.

Acts 2:41 (King James Version)

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Church commitment and involvement is essential to the growth of your life and your family or future family. It’s when one’s commitment has been burned or violated that a person has a hard time committing.

The bible states people were added to the Church daily as the Lord saved them. They were willing to count the cost and pay whatever the price.

To Pastors
1. Don’t look at where you are at or those who don’t come. Remember God will add to the church. We do our part- Feed them and lead them.
2. Don’t look at the pocket book. God’s pocket book is a whole lot bigger. Teach, preach, and eat.

To everyone else get connected and STAY CONNECTED. It’s like working at a certain company and then leaving it every 6 months, your resume would look all chopped up. Commitment is essential for growth. You don’t stop when it’s going good, you continue to serve with your time, talents, treasures.

Tomorrow I will blog about what to do when your committed, but your commitment was violated.

Remember, what God has spoken will come to pass as long as you and I stay committed to Him and connected to leadership.

Our success in life is predicated upon our obedience of His Word.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

See, Hear, Taste, Smell, and Touch

2009-12-03T22:47:00.000-08:00

Don’t miss this Sunday for your life. It’s going to be awesome. Click here for more information.

Proverbs 29:18 (King James Version)

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Without a vision in our life, it is like driving blindfolded in a vehicle. Eventually you will crash. It’s the same with every area of our life. We must have a vision for our life, if we want to see good success.

Here are some practical insights.

1. Write the vision down. Habakkuk 2:1 tells us to write the vision down. If you don’t have one, get one and write it down. Write one down for every area of your life. Even if you had one and gave up on it, write it down again.

2. Study. II Timothy 2:15 tells us to study to show ourselves approved of God. After you write it down, ask the Lord for direction. If you want to be an archaeologist, then look into what it takes to do it. If you want a healthy family, open the word of God and allow God to start with you and then go from there.

3. Move forward. Faith without works is dead. After you have written the vision down, studied, then you must execute on how God has instructed you to do.

4. Allow Him to make it come to pass. He is the master at taking any situation and turning it for our good.

Remember without a vision the people perish. Whatever dream you have, with God nothing is impossible unto him that believes. Go after what God has placed in your heart and don’t give up until you see it. Vision stays the same, but strategies change.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Faithful in an Unfaithful World

2009-11-30T07:38:00.000-08:00

WoW! What an awesome Service we had on Sunday. If you missed it go back and view it. Click here to view it. Don’t forget about Our Christmas Eve Service Don’t miss it. Mark your calendars.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (King James Version)
24Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

On Saturday November 28, 2009 my wife and I celebrated 11 years of marriage and counting. In a society where people are giving up on marriage, being unfaithful, I wanted to share with you some practical wisdom on how to have a thriving and successful marriage; no matter what life throws at you.

First off - marriage is work and fun. Living together without being married; is the pleasure of marriage without the work. The reason is there is no commitment. Marriage is commitment between you and your spouse and God. If you cannot commit to God, it’s going to be hard to commit to each other.

Commitment strands from being fully persuaded and trusting. Trusting comes from loving. You cannot truly love someone without trusting him or her. If you cannot trust the individual, you will not be able to truly love them. Most people cannot commit because they have had their trust violated, and so it’s hard for the individual to commit. They will commit only to a point. But without full commitment, you will never be able to have a thriving and successful marriage.

My wife and I do not argue, we simply have discussions; no, really, arguing leads to nothing more than confusion and disputes. Don’t debate everything, learn to work together and find each other’s strengths. The enemy will always show your partners weaknesses, but God will always expose the strengths and the potential he or she has in Christ. Never put your spouse down. No matter what he or she says. The bible states Satan is the accuser of the brethren. He goes around putting people down making them feel like a loser because he is one himself. Hebrews 10:25 states for us to encourage one another. When you encourage one another, you will see the strengths each one have; come out.

Men, take your wife on a date once a week, a minimum of once a month. Regardless of your schedules; make time for it. Let her know how much you love her. How you really feel about her. Women encourage your husband. Let him know that he is the superman in your life. When you encourage him and pump him up, there is nothing he will not do for you. Even when things are not going well for him, let him know you are for him and with him and that God is with him and for him. If you marriage is on the rocks, know that you can come to Jesus and He is the rock. Rest in him, lay your issues at His feet, ask him for answers, creative solutions.

Maybe you are at a point where your marriage has become almost “platonic”. Can that happen? Well platonic means to be intimate and affectionate but not sexual. When having kids, juggling your career, schedules, meetings, travel time, sometimes it feels like you have nothing left to give.

Revelations 2:4 shows us God telling Ephesus (the church) he knew their works and labor but one thing was missing and that was they left their first love. They needed to come back to God. Today take some time to evaluate where your love life is at between you and God and you and your spouse. If it is lacking decide today that you are making a come back. Change whatever you have to change in your schedule, create a new routine and work it in.

When we put God first in our life, we are able to trust that He is faithful. He can work out what seems to be broken and not going well. That includes a marriage.

Tomorrow I will continue this with Faithful in an Unfaithful World.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Point

2009-11-23T07:42:00.000-08:00

WOW what an Awesome Service! If you missed it. Click here to view it.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (New Living Translation)

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

This week is Thanksgiving. What is thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is giving thanks. Giving thanks in every area of our lives.

When we begin to thank God, He redirects us and points us into the right direction.

I encourage you today to take the time and write down 10 things that you are thankful for. You cannot stay ungrateful, when you begin to thank God.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Forfeit

2009-11-20T00:54:00.000-08:00

WOW what an awesome week we have had so far. We have a new radio program. It’s called Breath Of Life Morning Show with the Pastors. M-F. 7am -9am. Click here for more information.

Isaiah 1:19 (King James Version)
If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:
When a team forfeits a game, they loose, even though they never played the game. We can forfeit things in our life because we are unwilling to follow through in every thing God speaks.

We have to be willing and obedient. You might say is there a difference? Yes! You can be obedient, but not willing to do what you are obedient in. Example, you may tell a child to take out the trash. They know if they do not obey they will suffer the consequences of their disobedience. Even though they obey, they are not willing to do it. Willingness deals with the heart. If your heart is not in it, then you are simply going through the motions.

Make sure your not going through the motions. Take a self-evaluation so that you will not forfeit what God has planed for your life. Face what it is that would cause you not to be willing and obedient. Is it pride, fear, doubt, selfishness, insecurity, failure, the list can go on and on. Give what you have faced to God and begin to replace it with the Word of God by speaking what He has spoken in His word. Moses forfeited the promise land because of his disobedience, and His unwillingness to completely follow through on everything God had instructed him to do. Partial obedience is still disobedience.

Today, don’t forfeit everything you have worked for just because you think you have arrived or what you have not seen yet come to pass.

Remember, What God has promised will come to pass as long as we continue and not forfeit what He has spoken in our lives.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Led

2009-11-16T02:04:00.000-08:00

WOW what an awesome service! if you missed it, click here to view it.
We have a new radio program that started last week. It’s called Wake up with the Pastors. M-F. 7am -9am. Click here for more information.

Matthew 4:1 (King James Version)

Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

There is a difference between being led and being pushed. God will always lead you to where you need to go and see good success. Our flesh will push us to where we think we want to go, but in destruction.

Jesus was led of the Spirit into the wilderness. This is where Jesus was placed by God to be tempted and overcome. The Holy Spirit led Him there and He will also lead us. The good news is just as He over came, so will you and I.

This process is unavoidable. He knew the best was yet to come. He had to face it, trace it, erase it and replace it with the Word of God. He knew going into the fight, that it was fixed. As long as He spoke the Word, He would come out winning.

Today, the Holy Spirit will lead you and guide you and I to the place where God can make us. Make us able to withstand all that the enemy has been prevailing. It might be a negative attitude. Maybe it’s over eating, being prideful, or maybe it’s just the lack there of. Whatever it might be, know just as Jesus was tempted and led of the Spirit into the wilderness and over come, so will you and I over come and come out ahead.

You have what it takes, not just to survive, but also to thrive in life.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Who's That

2009-11-13T10:38:00.000-08:00

Wow what an awesome service we had this past Sunday. If you missed it, click here to view it. If you missed Friday November 6, 2009, then click here for highlights.

We have a new radio program that started this week, It’s called Wake up with the Pastors M-F. 7am -9am. Click here for more information.

Judges 6:12 (New Living Translation)

The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!”

Have you ever told a child to do something, and they looked at you like you were crazy? They have not discovered they have the ability to do it, but they just need someone to pull it out.

God is saying to you today, “You mighty hero, God is with you!” I want you to think about that. If you know that you are a hero and God is with you, nothing anybody or anything does to you will cause you to loose focus on what God has spoken to you. I want you to say it, I am a mighty hero, and God is with me, for me, and not against me.

No matter where you are in life, nothing is impossible for God to do in your life. He is with you, for you, and not against you.

Today, know that you are a mighty hero and God is with you. Go and accomplish everything God has spoken for you to do. There are more with you, then against you.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Growth Connection Factor

2009-11-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

WOW what an Awesome Service if you missed it click here to view it. If you missed Friday November 6, 2009 then click here for highlights.

We have a new radio program that started this week. It’s called Wake up with the Pastors. M-F. 7am -9am. Click here for more information.

Ephesians 4:16 (King James Version)

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love..

The Phrase, “fitly joined together,“ is one Greek word –sunarmologeo. It means, to fit or frame together, be fitly framed, join closely together.

The NIV says it like this, joined and held together by every supporting ligament. These ligaments enable the body to grow and build itself up in love, as each part does its work.

What and who we connect with will be the direct result of whether or not we will grow or not.

Colossians 1:23 (King James Version)

If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister.

Growth happens as we continue with Him grounded and settled, and not moving when the times get hard, or weak.

Just like a tree the deeper the roots, the harder it is for that tree to move. I encourage you today to take the time and stay connected to leadership, but committed to Him. Jesus Christ.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Give Up on Giving Up

2009-11-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

Wow what an awesome service we had yesterday! Click here if you missed it.

II Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Is life hard? Yes. Is Christ stronger and able to get us through? Absolutely. Do we feel like we want to give up sometimes? Sure we do.

But I want to encourage you today that Christ's strength is greater then any weakness we may have. His courage to face and make it through another day is unbeatable. Your tomorrow will be a better day.

I want to encourage you to give up on wanting to give up. There is hope. I pray that today, whatever you are going through God places hope in your heart. I pray that He gives you hope for tomorrow, joy for your sorrow and strength for what you are going through.

I want you to know that your best days are ahead of you. Now is your time. It doesn’t matter where you are at in life, what opportunities have passed, or how you were done wrong. Make the decision today, you are pressing on. Decide today you are moving on, the past is over, and the future holds a brighter season.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Trading One Addiction for Another

2009-11-04T00:32:00.000-08:00

Wow what an Awesome Week. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information. I look forward to seeing all of you this weekend.

Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.

When we begin to make changes in our life for the better, to honor God, to improve our Christian walk, some changes are not always for the best. I want to challenge you today to consider the following:

Have you traded one addiction for another?

Drinking for an eating disorder (over eating – under eating)
Cussing for indirect put downs (thinking they are not as bad)
Partying/Fornication for controlled seductiveness (turn on & off when you want)

What have you traded, modified or think you have controlled?

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Until

2009-11-02T07:50:00.000-08:00

WOW! What an awesome service. If you missed it, click here to view it. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information.

2 Kings 5:14 (King James Version)

Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

Naaman was a commander of a great Kingdom. He had brought many victories, but he had contracted an incurable disease, leprosy. He came to Elisha. Elisha was the prophet at the time. Elisha told him to go and dip in the Jordan river seven times and on the seventh time he would be healed. The only problem was the Jordan River was at the time the dirtiest river.

Naaman said can’t I go to another river and do it. No replied Elisha. The key to success in our life is obeying exactly what God has spoken. He has the exact plan and strategy to accomplish what he has placed in our heart. Naaman walked away because it was not the way he wanted to receive his healing. This meant that death in his life was going to happen.

How many times does God instruct us to do something that will give Him glory? God was humbling Naaman. Finally, Naaman went and dipped in the water seven times and on the seventh time came out purified.

Don’t stop obeying what God has spoken for you to do until you get what you have set out to do. If Naaman had stopped at the 6th time, he would not have received his healing. Partial obedience is still disobedience.

What have or are you asking God for? What has He spoken for you to do? Do it UNTIL what you are believing for happens.

Remember our success is predicated upon our obedience of what He has spoken.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

Committed

2009-10-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

Wow what an Awesome Week. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information. I look forward to seeing all of you this weekend.

Luke 14:28 (King James Version)

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

Commitment takes on responsibility and acts of unselfishness. Many times it can be hard to commit to something or someone if you have been hurt before. However, I want to encourage you that even though the commitments of the past ended in failure, you can begin again.

In the Book of Ruth, Naomi lost her husband and her two sons. All she had left was her daughter-in-laws. Naomi told both of them to go back to there families and she would return to Bethel. Bethel is a representation of commitment, a commitment to God, and to the house of God. Ruth was the only one that returned with Naomi.

So they went back to the place of commitment. It was difficult because Naomi had lost a husband and two sons, but she knew she had to come back to the place of commitment.

I want to leave you with three things that will allow you to commit again.

Forgive what has happened.
Know that greater is God in you, than the hurt in you.
Know what happened before was only a plan of the enemy to destroy your ability to commitment and fulfill the destiny God has placed in your life.
Commit again and allow God’s grace to navigate the commitment. He will protect your heart and your life.

Without commitment, we limit ourselves and are unable to fulfill the plan and purpose of God in our life.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Created to Succeed

2009-10-27T23:24:00.000-07:00

Wow what an awesome week. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information. If you missed the service you can go back and view it here. www.breathoflifechurch.com

Jeremiah 1:5 (King James Version)

Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Everyone that was ever born was born with a plan and purpose in life. The question is do you have purpose in your life with the plan that you are following? First, we must know it’s first purpose, then passion. You can have passion for something that really has no purpose. Example - you might have a passion to watch the Sports Network all day. Unless you are going to pursue a career in Sports Broadcasting, your passion for the Sports Network is for selfish desires. A life that is fueled with purpose and passion that continues to follow a God given purpose will have good success in life.

You were created to have purpose and passion for what God purposed in your heart. God ordained and calls us to something that He placed in us. Like I said earlier, there is nothing wrong with watching sports, but if you never do anything with your purpose, then your passion will be used on something else.

I ask you, what has God placed in you that you feel called or destined to do? I always say education is the place to help me pursue the purpose of God in my life. In the process success is destined to follow.

Are you following the plan and purpose of God in your life?

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Blow Out

2009-10-26T00:41:00.000-07:00

Wow what an Awesome Week. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information. If you missed the service you can go back and view it here. www.breathoflifechurch.com

Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.

Blow out. Have you ever had a tire blow out? Have you ever seen a tire blow out? In life, we sometimes experience blow-outs. Literally, it seems like what was once together is falling apart and ripping to shreds. Something that was held together by such a thick rubber substance, something that does not easily disseminate; it all comes apart. What do you do when this happens? In real life, when tires blow out, we can call a tire repair man. In real life, when life blow outs occur, we can call on Jesus.

Yes, that’s right Jesus. He is the answer to all things. You might be saying…. C’mon – but really – HOW I am going to get out of this? WHO am I going to turn to? God wants you to know that He has given you the strength on the inside to overcome. He has given you the ability and peace to go through it and come out on the other side.

Is it easy? No,not always. Is it sometimes lonely? You bet. But I want you to know that Jesus, is a friend that sticks closer then a brother. He is an ever present help in the time of trouble. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. He is a refuge and fortress when you need shelter, a daddy, and a banker. He is all things to all people, because He alone is God.

He alone can calm the raging seas in your life. He alone can bring peace in midst of turmoil and explosive situations. Today, I encourage you to call on Jesus. He’s waiting on your call to “repair” what’s blown out in your life.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Creation

2009-10-23T12:10:00.001-07:00

Wow! What an awesome week. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009 our faith based night. Click here for more information. We look forward to seeing all of you this Sunday at www.breathoflifechurch.com.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (King James Version)

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

When we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior, all the old ways of doing things were passed away. Now, we know our spirit gets saved instantly, our soul progressively, and our body futuristic wise.

Our soul is made up of the mind, will, and emotions. So, when we accepted Christ, from this point on, our mind, will, and emotions are progressively getting saved.

Now, if we are a new creature in Christ, this means we think differently, we feel differently, and we are moved differently. The question would be, do you since the time of your salvation think, feel, and are moved differently? If you say no, then you need to reevaluate the place you are at spiritual.

We should not be thinking and dwelling on thoughts that are opposite of the will of God. We should not be feeling scared, intimidated, or alone. We should not be moved when different situations in our life arises. We should not be altered by anything that is happening around us.

The key to our soul and growing in Christ is:

mind, will, emotions - continuing in the faith, grounded, settled, and not moved.

Colossians 1:23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

When we do this, we will be able to withstand the pressures of life that come our way.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Mentor, Model, Motivator

2009-10-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an Awesome Week. Don’t forget to join us on November 6, 2009. It will be the First Annual Faith Based Night at the Cedar Park Center. Click here for more information.

1 Corinthians 4:15 (King James Version)

For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

What comes to mind when you think of the word Father. If you had a good one like I did, you would probably say a provider, protector, loving, and caring. Maybe you didn’t have so great of a father, but the scripture tells us that God gives us spiritual fathers. Ones that we can glean from.

A spiritual father is one that is a mentor, motivator, and model. Someone that lives what they preach in the Pulpit, out in the workplace, and at home. Fathers should posses a spiritual integrity and love for God and those around them.

Here are some basic Biblical Fathers.

Abraham- Man of Promise
David – Man after God’s own Heart
Jesus- The life giver and the one we pattern our life after.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Positioning Beyond Defeat

2009-10-18T23:52:00.000-07:00

Wow what an Awesome Service. If you missed it, you can go and view it. Click here. Don’t forget about November 6, 2009. We will have our faith base night held at the Cedar Park Center. Click here for more information.

Ephesians 4:8,9 (King James Version)
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

When one experiences defeat, failure, let down, or an unexpected detour on the path to success, it can appear that our dreams have been shattered. It can feel as though we are pressed on every side and at every point. You know the saying, when it rains, it pours. Some blows in life seem so hard, so deep that we don’t know how we can ever get back up and shake things off.

I want you to know as you read this blog, no matter what office you are sitting in, what computer you are in front of that God will make what is crooked, straight. What seems to be bent up and twisted, he can iron out. No matter how complex the situation, with God on your side, all things are possible.

If you are still here, breathing, alive, then it’s not over. You can be cast down, but God wants you to know that this situation you are going through, will not destroy you. He will use this in the melting pot of life situations and make you stronger, better, and wiser.

It is never too late to begin again, dream again and live again. You must position yourself beyond defeat. When you have experienced failure, you feel down and worse then ever imaginable. Reposition yourself. Yes, that’s right, reposition yourself; don’t stay down and defeated. Go laugh at something, when you don’t feel like laughing. Go see something bright and happy. Get going and begin to let God speak to you and do a work in you. What you think is a “set back” could really be a “set up” for what God has for your life; the destiny to be fulfilled.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Synergy

2009-10-15T23:56:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an awesome week. Don’t forget about the Texas Stars First Annual Faith Based Night. The event will be held November 6, 2009 at the Cedar Park Center. Click here for more information.

Hebrews 12:2 K.J.V.

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Synergy is the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effect. Separate from God our effectiveness is minimal and really not that effective. However, when we connect with God, our potential is reached and our effectiveness is out of this world.

Jesus endured the cross because of the joy that was set before him. This means He was able to reach the goal because of the joy. The word joy here means “the cause or occasion of joy.” It’s like a woman being pregnant and the joy of the baby keeps her going. Even though her back may hurt, her feet are swollen, or she is fatigued, she sees the joy.

Today, connect with the synergy of joy that Christ had when He was on the cross. When we connect to this joy, we will not only be able to endure it, but thrive through the process.

God bless,

Pastor Mark

Cover Page

2009-10-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

What a week so far! Don’t forget I will be on The Word Network Thursday October 15th @ 8:30 pm CST and Saturday October 17th @8:30 am CST. You can also view it online. http://thewordnetwork.org/ Mark your Calendars for November 6, 2009. I will be the keynote speaker at the Texas Stars Hockey Game at the Cedar Park Center. This is the First Annual Faith Based Night. Click here for more information.

Mark 1:28 (King James Version)

And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.

God calls us to be faithful, not famous. In the process one could become famous. If Jesus were walking the earth today, He would have been on every magazine cover. They would ask Him questions about His ministry and lifestyle. What if your picture was on a magazine? What would they say about you? Could they say what they might have said about Christ?

Predicated upon the magazine company, they publish with the intent to draw attention by reporting on famous people and advertising products. Christ is in us and everywhere we go. We are a walking magazine cover for Christ. What we say, wear, do, and our mannerisms should be a representation of Christ.

Today, take the time and look at the cover you’re presenting to those around you. Is it a cover that will attract people to Christ or will it repeal people and cause them to disregard all that Christ is. Remember you are royalty. When you do this, you will see things happen for you.

God Bless,

Pastor Mark

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4 Attributes of a Leader

Fasting

Reposition

Reposition

Attitude of Gratitude

Staging a Comeback

It shall be

It's your Time

When God says Yes

Taken

When Faith Makes Sense

Present verses future

Promotion Comes from the Lord

When Faith Speaks

Protected

The drought has ended

Before you Get There

Unexpected

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

Premium Living

Hazardous Work

In Matthew 10:16 The Message says it like this: "Stay alert. This is hazardous work I'm assigning you. You're going to be like sheep running through a wolf pack, so don't call attention to yourselves. Be as cunning as a snake, inoffensive as a dove.

Begin Again

What are you waiting for?

It says it like this in Deuteronomy 1:8 K.J.V. Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them.

How to Stay in your Lane.

Purpose in your Pain

Seize the moment

Shift

John 21:15-17 (New Living Translation)

Part 2 of Making of a Man

Change

The Making of a Man Part 1

Facing Fact

Fly your kite

Faith - Foolishness and Presumption

Force

Letting go of Regret

Forced to Release

For the Sake

Distractions

Consecrated

People of Purpose

When

Positioned for Success

Right Spot

Yes Lord

Faith Exposed

Blown

Don't Underestimate God

I Will

Isaiah 6:8 (Amplified Bible) Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for Us? Then said I, Here am I; send me

Imagine

Fasting

Isaiah 58:6 New International Version

Chazown

Avoid Judging Others Failures

Private, Personal, Public

Don't Be Moved

Unlimited

It Ends Tonight

Lay It Down

Hebrews 12:1 (New Living Translation)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

“For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements: 29 You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell.”

New

3 W's of Life

Connected

I Have A Dream

Sub-Mission

1 Peter 5:6 (Amplified Bible)

Status Quo

Jude 1:24 (New Living Translation)

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.

2010 I Am In

Why I like Christmas

What about Me?

Focus

The Experience

“For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements: ²⁹ You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell.”