My

Cross To Carry
Its Meaning and its Purpose By Dan Mason God wishes all of us to walk in the freedom of knowing Him, as a Loving God, who Cares for His Children. Many dont realize this, only to wander into all types of sins, avoiding the truth that they are Loved and Adored, by the Lord Jesus Christ. My Cross To Carry shows us how to surrender to the hurt, and pains life some times brings.

My Cross

To Carry

Its purpose and Meaning

By Dan Mason
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Letter from Dan

I would like to thank the Lord, Jesus Christ, for the words given to me for this book. I would also like to dedicate this book to the body of Christ, and its believers. May we all grow up to be like Him, in love and character. I would also like to thank all the pastors, who have given their lives, to help all of us find Jesus Christ, as Lord and Savior. Special thanks to my wife Pat, for standing by me, with her support and love, all these years. You have been a great encouragement for all that have met you. Love, Dan

Hebrew 12:2; Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our Faith;
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My Cross To Carry
Its Purpose and Meaning

By Dan Mason

Reference: King James Bible Copyright: 2011

My Cross to Carry
Contents: Sit The Vision 1. The Story 2. The Story of Mary 3. My Story Stand 1. Your Relationship with God 2. The First Step to Growth 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Not My Will, but Yours be Done The Story of the Assistant My Will or His? The Story of Shawn The Walk of Love

The Second Step to Growth 1. I thought I knew you? 2. The Story of Saul
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Contents:

The Third Step to Growth 1. Whats taking so long? 2. Hearing the Voice of God 3. The person called, Charles The Forth Step to Growth 1. Weapons Of Our Warfare 2. The Cross You now Carry The Witness 1. The Vision, and the Call The Study Group Work Shop 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Story of Love The Story on Relationships The Story of Forgiveness The Story of Faithfulness The Story on Commitment
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Forward

This book was written, in order to help struggling Christians find their way forward, to a successful life. The book will help you find and hear God, as He leads you from the cross, to promotion and service. After reading Appreciated, Valued and Loved, by the same author, I hope to explain the road from salvation to the cross, and its value in life. The book contains Gods plan and growth process, which has been written for all of us, as His children. In each chapter, I hope to bring across the understanding of the walk, called commitment and surrender, blessings and joy. However, its all up to you. Youre the person doing the walking, and youre the one that has the right to say yes, or no to God.

Remember, God gave you free will. Therefore, if you ever want Gods best, you will first have to learn how to follow, and appreciate Gods decisions for your life. He has a direction and a plan, designed just for you. You can sit, stand or walk, its up to you. However, if you are willing, God will open up a new world, designed and created by Him. Youll be amazed at what you see, hear and taste, when it comes to the goodness of God. In each step, or climb you take, God will make a move for you, in a greater understanding of His Will, and purpose for your life.

SIT
Learn, watch and listen
The vision Years ago, I was given a vision of the inside of a church. The church was rather large, and could sit hundreds of people. As I looked at the center stage, I could see many steps, climbing higher to a platform where the musicians gathered, and the pastor taught from. On the back wall, where the platform ended, was a cross for all to view, as the people sat inside the church. This is like most churches of today, and therefore, you and I can easily picture this in our mind.

The story Like most Christians, we, Gods children, always start at the bottom, where all the seats are in the church. We sit week after week, listening to the music, and taking in the Word of God, spoken by the pastor and guest speakers. However, there are a few of us, that want more of God than this. There are a few people that seek, and want more of the Holy Spirit, and a greater fellowship with God. They want a deeper understanding of Gods will and way for their lives. This type of person will pray, worship and read the word, on a daily basis. Still, this is not enough. Their hearts long for more of God than just I need, or give me type of relationship. They long for the voice and presence of God in their lives, wherever they go. They want to know what He is up to, and where He is going. They long for the love and fellowship of the Heavenly Father.
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These Christians desire so much to be a part of Gods life, that they are willing to die out to self and surrender their ways to Him, for whatever He wants. These are the people that will be most used by God, everywhere they go. You cant help but notice them. They are the type of person that stands out in a crowd. The anointing of God rests upon them. They are positive people, speaking the Word of God, with evidence of the gifts of the Spirit flowing freely. Their hands burn with the healing anointing, and they are more than willing to say no to self, and yes to Him. They love the Lord in every way possible, and give from the heart, not the pocket. Their lives belong to Him. They show it with praise and lifted hands, and positive witness to the fact that God is very real in their lives. They have found out that God is Love, and in Him is no condemnation. In the hard times, as well as the good, they have found Him to be faithful.
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Therefore, the only thing left in their lives, is to be faithful to Him. Their reply is always; Yes, Lord. The story of Mary; Mary, in the bible, was one such person. When the angel told her she would have a child, and that the child would be called Jesus, Marys comment was; According to your word, let it be done unto me. It wasnt an easy life, but it was Gods chosen life for her. Many times, we, Gods children want only the good that comes from the Father, and protection from the hardship of this world. Mary, on the other hand, could only see Gods will. Here is a young girl, who is about to give birth to our Savior, moving from town to town with her husband Joseph, in order to save the child. Later in years, after His mission was about to be completed, and His
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ministry was coming to an end, she had to watch as Jesus was beaten, shamed and hung on a cross to die. Her pain was great, yet her joy was filled to full, for she knew He had risen from the grave. Mary was in Gods plan, even though there was pain and sorrow along the way. No one likes pain. It hurts. Depending on how deep the wound is, the pain could last for years, or until the person gives over the offence, grows up, and allows God to heal them. Its only then that a person starts to see Gods plan. I, myself know this to be true. Youre a child one day, and an adult the next. One example, is when a child is over protected by their parents. This results in the fact that they may never have had a chance to grow up. They have never learned to work through their struggles, and learn from their mistakes. Ive seen this in many
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families, as the children are given everything in life they ever asked for. The child learns to look to the parents for answers, and not God. In some cases, the parents have even become their God. Is there any reason then, why the now older adult does not seek God, only self and federal agencies for help? They have become a product of what is called an undisciplined life, with the unwillingness to ever say no to self. Their life is all about them. I know it hurts to hear this, but it hurts me more than it does you. You see, Im 58 years old, and I also had to come the hard way. I liked being the only child, and I liked getting all the special attention. I looked to others for my needs, and yet, never thought of God, unless I needed Him for something greater than what my parents could provide.

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I thank the Lord for turning my life around from this kind of lifestyle.

When I was going the wrong direction, God stepped in and said, Im going to make myself known to him, and He did. My Story: It happened in 1982. I had listened to a Billy Graham Crusade on the television, and had accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior. It was then that I did the first part of the vision, I started to attend church, and then I sat and watched as God led the way for my life. I viewed other Christians, their talk life, their walk life and their actions. I found out it wasnt anything like mine. I was wild, and full of self. I felt that God was too far away, and I couldnt reach Him. For this reason, I sought the helpful prayers of others, rather than relying on my own. Eventually, I walked toward Him for service, by helping out in study groups. I made a lot of mistakes! I tried to live the
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surrendered life, but each time I found this constant need on the inside of me, to please my flesh or self by demanding perfection for worth. The more I found myself perfect in actions, the more God must approve of me. Little did I know that this is not Gods way by grace. What I had really done, was take the worlds ideas of works and performance for value and worth, and extended it into the church, for acceptance and value. Most people call this the making of a religion. I had not yet learned how to walk and live by Grace and faith. It wasnt until years later, that the Lord spoke to me concerning this. He was just pleased that I was moving forward, and learning about Him. Still, something was wrong. I continued doing things out of my own strength. God had had enough! He pointed out the fact
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that He had died on the cross for my sins, and that nothing could replace the value of what He had done. Once a person accepts Jesus Christ, they have accepted Gods freedom and love, to be called a child of God. This is how He pointed it out to me. He told me about the word called GRACE. When you spell out the word Grace, you get the meaning of Gods freedom.

GGod so R Richly A Accepted us at C Christs E Expense

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Do you understand what that means? God approves of you, accepts you, loves you and values you, not by your works, but by His work at the cross. This new found freedom set me free from condemnation, for my imperfect actions called mistakes and failures. I like the way Eph 2: 8-9 says it. For by Grace are you saved by Faith not of works for it is a gift of God less any man should boast. You see, it was a gift. This gift called salvation was freely given, without cost to you, or I. The cost was by Him dying on the cross, for you. Therefore, if something is without cost, there is nothing I can do to improve upon its worth. All Im required to do, is follow. The process is called learning to listen, and surrender my ways to a walk called faith. Faith gives substance, or a walk toward the prize, knowing youre accepted and loved. Therefore, as each door opens by Him, youre given the opportunity to step forward, and into His blessing. This
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surrendered attitude allows you to walk toward your goals, and also toward His higher calling. Your movement only requires you to take one step at a time. I know youll make mistakes, and mess up. We all do, but if you keep walking forward, you will always find His peace and strength in the fullness and presence of God. Again, this is your choice. Its up to you to walk. He gave you freedom to sit or grow. You can either sit and never move forward, or you can stand up, and make yourself known as willing to be trained. This will require something of you, as a person. Even though youre scared and unsure of yourself, Gods in control. As you continue walking, your faith will increase when you see God working. It takes boldness to set your sights on a direction that has never been seen before, but its worth it. Therefore, remember this: Tiny steps are better than no steps at all. Believe me, God will help you stand, and
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eventually walk forward, into those unknown goals or areas. Its called spiritual growth for learning, as well as learning to trust in Him. Remember, He is your Daddy, Father.

STAND
In faith toward understanding Him.
Youve learned to sit, now its time to stand, and then learn how to a walk toward the platform in the vision of the church called promotion. Well, youve started your walk by standing in faith and not by sight. Youve learned to follow the steps of peace that is on the inside. Youre not swayed by the loudness of the world and mens voices so much. That gentle small voice on the inside of you, is leading you, and youre not driven by fear
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or emotions. The word of God is now your direction and pathway for success. What you have done, is gone from a sitting position to a standing position. By now, youve learned to believe in Gods willingness to talk to you on a personal level. This part of faith could take months or years, depending on your spiritual training and church background. Fear or Faith. By now, youre more than willing to walk toward your calling, but first, you will have some deeper training by God. This is going to require you, as a child of God, to cast down fear, and stand your ground, by faith, in all circumstances and situations. Remember, small steps are better than none, and faith sees the road where fear points out the obstacles in the way. Fear also finds faults in self and others, and is
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more than willing to point out the negative wrongs in the way called life. For this reason, many will destroy their own blessings by condemning it to death, instead of praying over it in favor and acceptance. Have you ever tried walking toward Gods goal for your life, only to find out youre going the wrong direction? This happens to all of us. Its called learning to hear from God and not following your thoughts and emotions. You have to learn to follow before you can ever make the journey toward the steps that lead to the platform called the surrendered life. The process takes time, and no one comes to a surrendered life overnight. If youre willing to admit it, we all need to let go to His ways and not follow our own. Then, and only then, can you say; Im walking by faith. Remember, faith is a position taken by believing in, and relying on the one you call
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God. It knows Him by more than the word savior. Your relationship with God. By now, you have started a relationship beyond hand outs and I need and I want. By now, youve started to ask Him the road to take and what is my cross to carry. What is His will concerning my life. As well as what has He chosen for my life? This will be your first step to know Him as Lord.

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Obedience Our first step toward the platform

Lets see what it takes to step up or climb higher. We know that it was the acceptance of Jesus Christ that got you to sit in church and learn of His ways. We also know that your faith has grown to the point that you are now willing to stand and make yourself known as a follower of Christ, but now, youre doing something even more challenging. Youre walking upward toward a beginning surrendered life toward His will, and now youre ready to take your first step of obedience.
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Step One, the climb upward Its not my will but yours be done.
Those are challenging words arent they? Wouldnt it be great if God said; Im here to fulfill all your requests and none of mine? We would never have to surrender, but instead, He would have to surrender to us! You know what would happen? We would all turn out to be spoiled, fat babies, destined to go to the Kingdom of God in Heaven. Yet, at the same time, we would have never learned discipline, or to respect others, or to follow authority figures. Therefore, the first step upward has to be called the Surrender of Self. I dont want to die!, you cry. I like all my fleshly toys and habits! Believe me, you wont die, but you will give up a lot of your old life style. If youre like me, youll have to admit youve made a lot of mistakes because of those fleshly ideas, and some you
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dont care to talk about. Youve made these mistakes in relationships, money, children, jobs and choices in life. Youve been over demanding, critical, and life has basically been all about you. You! You! You! Youve judged others and told them what they had to do, and never gave thought as to what they wanted. You most likely thought youre always right and everyone else is wrong. Therefore, you didnt listen. Everyone else is the jerk and they dont listen. For this very reason, its caused you to make so many mistakes that you would like to bury your head in the sand, so to speak. This is the reason why this step seems to be the biggest and most important step youll ever take in your life. Without this step, youll go no further with God. If you dont learn to say yes to God, and no to self with all those fears, youll end up like a china glass doll or object sitting on Gods shelf, not being used or blessed. Its not Gods fault but your
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choice. Again! Nice to look at, but not really being used very often, or you may not be used at all. Be careful! If you dont start walking in your training, and develop faith muscles, you may go back to a stand position again. The next thing you may see is you, sitting in the back row of the church, wondering where you fit in. Then your thoughts may turn negative, and you may start saying; I dont belong here. Maybe I belong somewhere else, and need to go to another church. This type of thinking will lead you all over the place. If the thought lasts long enough, youll keep on moving from church to church to church. You know where that thought came from dont you? Fear! Fear of surrender, fear of submission, and fear of authority figures. It stands to reason, since youve always had a better way of doing things. Youve always been in control, up until now, and it scares you. If youve developed and worked this stubborn mind set long enough, youve probably
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learned how to manipulate and control others with your anger, by using fear tactics with thoughtless words, or comments that hurt. The story of the Church Leader: I know this to be a fact. I met a person a long time ago who was requested by a church leader to do a certain thing. But, because the person didnt think this was a good idea, and the person was looking for a way out, the person rebelled. This person was found going to several other leaders until they could find someone to back up their hidden fear of lack of responsibility. What happened next was totally from the Lord. I watched and prayed about the situation, and asked the Lord what He thought. What He told me, made me glad we are saved by grace and not by the works of our hands. Therefore, lets not rebel and walk away in fear. Know that youre a part of Gods plan, and that you do have a
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purpose. Remember, God will help you. So, take that first step of faith to let someone else have control over your life, God. This first step of faith is also called learning to trust, and you learning to let go. If this is the first time, I can tell you right now youre afraid. Youve never let go before. Youve always had control of things. In your thinking, you will be telling yourself, If I let go, that means Im then out of control, and if I dont have control, theres a good chance that something might crash. Well, youre right. Something is going to crash, the flesh. What will happen, is that your fears about self will have to fall to the way side, and you will have to come in line with Gods word and will. You will no longer be able to rely on your skills and education alone. You will have to seek God first in everything. The bible says; Ive come not
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to do my own will, but the one who sent me. My will or His? Will is part of the first step. Will I do what God wants? Or, will I surrender to fear one more time. Will I believe in me, and Him with me, helping me all the way? Or, will I seek the advice of others, who use these same fear tactics to protect themselves from having to move forward? You see, the question is really yours to answer, and not mine to give. I cant make up your mind. You are the one that can step out and make yourself available to God. The walk of faith. Lets look at fear the way those of faith see it. Those of faith choose to believe in Gods word, instead of what man would say. They take the path of hardship, rather than the easy way out. Those of faith also prove themselves loyal to the King of Kings and
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the Lord of Lords, up unto the end. They would rather die for their faith in God, rather than run in fear. They pray in reverence to Him, the all knowing God. And they stand their ground, as the Lords chosen. Does this remind you of anyone? Youre right, its you. You see, I believe in you, and God believes in you. All the angels in heaven believe in you. All of us are just waiting for someone like you to take action in your faith, and walk in love. Oh sure, you may fall or trip along the way, but I know youll get back up and make it this time. Even if it means falling 10 times, God still forgives and delights in those who keep trying, and keep seeking Him for strength. So, step up and be known as His chosen, like those who followed Him in the past. Hes not judging you, He is helping you. The only one who judges, is the one
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who wishes your fall. If I were you, I wouldnt listen to him. So, have you walked through any, or some doors of opportunities yet? Maybe you surprised us all, and completed each assignment given and directed by God. Thats great! In either case, you most likely would have developed spiritual skills along the way. Skills most needed in casting down the imaginations of the enemy. You may have also stopped looking at situations or problems with a negative outlook. And now, youre hearing the voice of the Lord, instead of self. If you have developed these spiritual skills or gifts, you most likely gained great insight on the walk of Love. You are starting to understand that others around you have the right to make choices and directions according to the way they feel God is leading them. They may not be dong it your
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way, but they are doing it theirs with Gods help. The story of my son, Shawn. My son had grown up to be a strong man of God. Now, it was time for him to get married. As I thought about it, I said to myself; Ive given him all I could give to him in advice and love. Now, its up to him. There was one little problem. I had never learned to let go as a parent. It happened when my son was making plans for his upcoming wedding, with his soon to be new wife. Ill never forget it. I was listening to him tell us what they had planned. Just wanting to help, I said; If I were you, I would. Shawn cut me short, and said; Dad, I didnt ask you. Boy, did that hurt, but, he was right. Shawn didnt ask, and I was being opinionated. Had he needed my help, he would have asked. I probably should have said to both of them that if they needed any help or advice, my
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door is always open, and left it at that, but, no. I always had an idea, and always had a better plan. Do you know what the problem was? It wasnt him, it was me. You see, in the past, Dad was always right there as the man of God, but now, my son needed to be respected as the man of God. After that day, I always have. My son had grown up, and Dad needed to also. My friend was looking for a home. This is another story of someone, outside the family, that needed my respect also. Often times, each of us have viewpoints that never match each others. One time, I went out to look at a house that a friend was considering to purchase. My friend thought it best to have me along for support and encouragement. After looking at the house with my friend, we each went outside to discuss the situation. I told my friend that I thought it best to buy an older home with 2 x 4 walls. The person I was
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with didnt see it my way. They wanted this new modular home with no repairs to be made. As I was thinking about this dilemma, God spoke to me. He said; Dan, what is right for you, is right for you. What is right for them, is right for them. I guess I never thought of it that way. It makes sense, doesnt it? I just needed to encourage people, not correct people. You see, we as people, fight and argue about the dumbest things. Why fight over all types of differences? Take, for example, a section of carpet that is going down on the inside of a church. It isnt the carpet or the color that is the issue. Pride is really the issue, and someone who is not in authority over the decision, wants their way and control. You see, pride always has a better way of doing things. Pride is also quick to cut down and show others what is wrong, and who is in the wrong. Pride also murmurs, complains and becomes angry if challenged.
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Therefore, if we are ever going to learn to get along, we each will have to understand that we all have opinions, and that we each have been given choices, with God helping us along the way. Edification and encouragement is what is most needed in order to build up the Kingdom of God. However, if you like to control others, youre the type of person that uses all types of negative, fearful comments, with a variety of angry looks, to get your own way. Some aggressors even feel the need to lower the worth of others by harsh comments, in order to make self look or feel good. Their low self esteem deprives the rights of others to excel. A stable person will not exalt self. A stable person will rejoice in helping others reach their dreams and goals. A stable person sees possibilities, not challenges in life or challenges by others.

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How many doors have you gone through since your first step of faith? Are you walking in love? Love is the only road that leads to success. Each step you take surrenders self, and signifies your ability to trust. You no longer have to fear about lack of worth if youre walking in love. Even if fear does try to stop you, you do the love walk anyway. Always remember that submitting to God, who is love, and resisting the devil, causes the devil to flee. The enemy can not stand love. It contradicts what they want to do, which is kill, steal, destroy, as well as manipulate and control you in every possible situation. So, lets stay on this level called love for a while. Its here, on this level, that we develop a solid walk, and learn to help others. By doing so, we see Gods plan for each of us, also. Walking in love accomplishes many things for the Lord. He will always direct
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you in life because of your love walk. Now, having walked by faith and not by sight, and having learned to cast down the thoughts and lies of the enemy, God is ready to move you forward again. Its now time to take another step of faith.

Our desire to find more of God The second step toward the platform
The second Step upward
I thought I knew you. Thats what I said many years ago. I thought I had arrived. Was I ever wrong! I could quote lots of bible verses, was doing so
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much for the Lord, teaching all types of classes and groups, when all of a sudden, God told me I needed to know Him on a new level. You see, I had never let go of all the hurts and pains of what had been done to the character of the person called me. What about all those angry attacks people had done toward me, with words I felt I didnt deserve? What was I suppose to do with them? I held on to these offences like a prize possession. Some hurts were so deep and old, that I didnt even know they were there. I was about to find out. I had done so much for the Lord, but a lot of it was in my own strength, and I didnt even know it. A long time ago, a set pattern was placed in my life by wrong upbringing, which kept playing like an old familiar song, day after day. What was that song?
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I didnt believe in me. For this reason, I would never stand up for my rights as a person, or Christian. I let people talk down at me, and I allowed them to take what belonged to the kingdom and use it for their own glory. You see, I had not yet learned to walk with boundaries, and in authority and power. I had given up my rights to uphold theirs.

I recommend that if you do not have boundaries in your life, you need to read any and all resource material in this area. There was a reason for me not having any boundaries. I had been abused as a child by my parents. They had beaten me down with their words, actions and life style, which was totally non Christian. For this reason, I learned to follow the world, and the old pattern taught to me in life. This pattern set

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me on the road for self-destruction, that was created by pride. It wasnt until years later, and after accepting Christ, that this would come out, and I would have to repent. Unknowingly, for years, I had followed my parents insecure ways for approval, by demanding perfectionistic works for worth. For this reason, my main concern was all about self. It was when I accomplished something great, or was wealthy enough to prove to others I had arrived in this great world of toys, that I felt good about me. Along with this, I had an overpowering need to be acknowledged as a great authority figure in my little world of self. Little did I know, but before Christ had entered by life, I was best described as a self-made man. You see, without things or toys in my life, I felt like a loser, and I always thought I had to prove myself. Little
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did I know I had become a workaholic for mans approval, not Gods. The story of Saul Read first Samuel in the Old Testament, on how Saul belonged to God. He was Gods chosen king. Yet, he lost his position, wealth and life, because he feared man, and not God. For this reason, he refused to obey God when God told him to do something. The word is called obey. This alone will make you want to fall on your knees for your rebellion, and repent for not walking after Gods ways. If you fear man more than you fear God, you will never be promoted by God when He wants to promote you. You will constantly think you are in the wrong church again, and will, therefore, move on one more time. Or, you will move on because of your fear of commitment to men, women, and most of all God.

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Pride and fear make a product in a persons life called rebellion, and rebellion, given time, leads to rejection. The end result will be you, listening to all the winds of mans breath. This causes you to be tossed in every direction when circumstances change in your life, but there is hope. Its when you let go and pray, and begin to trust God, that you become rock solid. This alone will stabilize you. Confess your fear to Him. He is more than willing to take it away. Where is your heart right now? Is it stable? Or, are you being tossed in all directions? If you feel like wavering, it could mean youre right where God wants you. Pray, dont run. Now, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. He hasnt moved, why should you? Remember the story when Jesus was in the boat, and the waves started to come in? Jesus just got up and rebuked them. His
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followers sat there in fear and awe at what had just happened. How could such a man calm the sea? Little did they know it, but later on in life, they would be required to do the same type of movement in the lives of others. His chosen would calm the hearts of men by showing them Gods strength and willingness to heal and set free. It could be that this is your time and calling for today. Youll never know until you try. Try to step out and find out. Find out where God is in your life. Are you being tossed? Stand still and know that He is God. He is not going to let you down, and He doesnt want you to sink in your circumstances. The bible says; He will never leave you or forsake you. Why not start now by letting go of any hurts, and all that left over debris called pain, that you have treasured all these years. You know the items that are hidden in your mind and heart. It could be those
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treasured mind sets are whats holding you down from Gods next step of glory. Lets pray. Lord, help me to forgive, and to be forgiven. Help me to let go of yesterdays past mistakes, and of the sins that were done to me. Help me to forgive myself for all the mistakes I have made, because of this. Ive chosen wrong avenues and roads that led away from you, by respecting mans wishes, and not yours. I have allowed pain to make me shy away from your call and love, also your blessings. I also, unknowingly, sought after fleshly restitution from wrongs that I felt had been done to me in life. I now forgive each and every person, by name, that has ever hurt me, and I set them free from owing me anything. I also ask you, Lord, to bless, and set both of us free from our mistakes and wrong doings. I realize that if I dont, the bitterness that I hold within me, will show
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up in the form of health issues, such as obesity, or alcohol and drug abuse. Keep me from hurting others with a slanderous tongue, or a critical heart. Thank you for forgiving my sin, and for paying my debt, in full, on the cross. I accept your forgiveness, and I forgive those who have hurt me. In Jesus Name, I thank you. If you feel led by God, you may want to say the persons name that has offended you, and forgive the sin. In each case, where that hurt was, you may need to talk with that person as if that person was with you in the very room youre sitting in. Talk to the person about the memory of what they did, with confronting forgiveness. You see, they dont have to be with you in person, and often times, its better you do it without them there. Sometimes, its better not to bring up something of the past, where no one remembers the incident.
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After all, they may not be ready to deal with the subject just yet, only you need to be set free. Confronting them in person sometimes does not work. They may not even understand. Often times, some people dont realize youre hurting, or in pain. It just depends on where their heart is. For this reason, I confront people only when it happens, and only in Love. I never devalue them, or cut them down, I just tell them, very simply, that what they did or said hurt. At the same time, I let them know how valuable they are as a person, never shaming them. Most of all, I dont do any confronting in front of others. Well, it looks like youre finding your value as a person, and at the same time, the value of others with God. For this reason, its time for another step toward Gods call.

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Ill step up to your call The third step to the platform

The step called Preparation and Usefulness.
Preparation is such a big word. It starts when you first accept Christ, and usefulness ends when He calls you home to be with Him. Its a work that will be done in you every day, and, at the same time every day in the lives of every Christian. As you develop skills in the spirit and in life, you become more useful every step of the way. I know this to be a fact. When I first started my walk with God, I gave myself a couple of years, and then declared myself ready to take on the world.

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Whats taking so long? Boy, was this a laugh! I was used in some areas greatly, but in others, where I knew I was being called, I couldnt help but wonder why it was taking so long. I knew my calling, but I just wasnt getting there. It seemed like I was forever climbing, but never getting to the place called promotion. Little did I know it, but the reason why it was taking so long, was because I had yet to develop all my spiritual skills. Also, my trusting faith walk with God needed fine tuning. You see, I had a lot of insight, but little understanding of the whole bible in a lot of areas. What I needed was to learn patience, and develop the willingness to follow God. You see, I was still demanding immediate results out of others, and expected others to follow my advice. Little did I know it, but God works on a time table, His time table, not yours or mine. I had forgotten to let Him be
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God, not me. I was demanding and hard nosed. I saw things black and white. I had forgotten that God sees the whole story when it comes to someone elses life. He knows everyones hurts, as well as their trials and their accomplishments. He knows what you went through yesterday, where you are today, and what you will face tomorrow. All I could see was the need. Hearing the voice of God. For this reason, I needed spiritual ears to hear Gods voice for direction, and an understanding heart toward others. This is called the fruit of the spirit, and the walk of love. Its having patience for, and with others. Its called long suffering in the bible. Its believing in, and hoping for, not being demanding, or self willed towards Gods authority. Remember, your authority means nothing without Gods Spirit involved in it, or with us.
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Therefore, seek His will and direction in everything you do. Learn to listen to the Spirit of God, and walk with understanding love. Its that still, quiet voice inside of you that is doing the talking. Wait and find out what He is saying to you, and others. By doing so, the situation just may change. Often times, in my own life, the Spirit of God would say something that was totally opposite of what the mind would think up. For this reason, higher education and skills has to take second and third place, by understanding Gods love on any situation. Its called listening to the Spirit of God. To do this, I often times enter into my prayer closet, to get alone with God, so I can hear only Him. The second way is by reading His word. The third way is by praising Him, and flowing in the Spirit of Worship. This way, Ill not be led by the flesh, only the spirit. Remember, His spirit never contradicts the Word of God. If in doubt on hearing God
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correctly, ask for a well grounded Christian to help pray with you concerning your situation. Spiritual understanding, with God speaking, always leads to success, no matter how hard the situation is. The person Ill call Charles. God is leading you. He is speaking to you. All you have to do is follow. Let me explain it this way. A long time ago, I had a person call me on the phone, to report a bad situation that had just happened. I was just about to get off work, so I told them I would be right over. As I left the parking lot, I started to pray. I heard nothing from the Lord concerning my friends problem. It was then I told myself that God does not leave us alone. He is always with me. I also told myself that, if Im not hearing anything, it is not Gods fault, it is mine.

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This told me I was in the flesh, and not in the spirit. Therefore, I needed to come to Him, not Him to me. I was the one who needed to draw near, so He could draw near to me. While I was driving down the street, I started to call out to God by praising Him, and seeking His face. I quoted bible verses that proved He was with me, and sought Him with all my heart. Within a few minutes, I started to hear something, but it wasnt quite clear. I continued to praise and sing songs of love to my Heavenly Father. After a few more minutes, I was hearing God very strongly and solidly inside of me. It was then I was told to do nothing, and that He has wanted this person to surrender to Him for years. I was only to tell them that this is what the Lord has said over their situation. God told me that the reason why they had such a problem was not because of God, but because of their own bad choices in life. I was stopped in my tracks, so to
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speak. You see, I was willing to help in any way I knew how, even with money, but now, God told me not to. I had to obey. You see, it took me praising and thanking God over and over, until I got out of the flesh, and into the spirit. God was always there, but I wasnt in tune with Him. It was like taking an old dial radio, and trying to adjust the radio to the proper station, and then fine tuning it to hear God perfectly. Thats the way it is for all of us. We have to leave self behind, and enter into the flow of Gods Spirit and presence. He isnt going to come down to our level, we have to come up to His. He said; My ways are higher than yours. Therefore, if I had done what I thought I should, there would have been a fleshly result, and I would have messed up Gods plan, resulting in the person never hearing what God had to say about their life.
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So what happens to this persons life? They listened to God. They had to go through some rough times, but in the end, they prospered and succeeded at what they had wanted in life. Wow! God is great! His mercy is new every morning. We are refreshed each and every day, when we get into His presence. It is there that we find His strength. This is where we find assurance and value of knowing that we are His. His presence overtakes our fears, and His voice shows us the direction to go. We are His, and we are never alone. Now that you know you can hear from God, the next step will dress you for promotion. Its just before you take your position that God has been long awaiting to give to you. What is the next step? Its called the Priesthood.

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Who I am in Christ The forth step to the platform

The story of the ring.
Many years ago, I had become sick with the flu. I was so bad that all I could do was rest in bed. It was in the early afternoon of the first day, that I started to get up and walk toward the hallway. All of a sudden, I heard the Lords voice. He said; Dan, go put your ring on. I said; What? So, the Lord spoke to me again; Dan, go put your ring on. I turned around, went over to the dresser, and reached for a gold ring that had 5 small diamonds in it. As I placed the ring on my finger, the Lord spoke to me again. He said; Such are the riches of this ring, such are the riches of my priesthood. PUT IT ON!
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It was then that I stopped everything I was about to do. I tried to understand what He meant, but I had no real understanding of the priesthood, as of yet. So, with God leading the way, I believe I know what He means. See yourself in Solomons Palace in Old Testament times. You belong to the King. Youre his adopted child. Youre robed in fine clothing, you wear a robe, and you have on a ring, given to you by your Father, the King, to show your position within the household. As the servants run in all directions, you just stand there. Your power and authority is great, but only as the King decrees, and within the confines of the Kings word. Therefore, to know the King means a lot, but to belong as part of His family, is even greater. You, my child, are part of the family. Youve been given the authority, and, also His power, as His adopted child. You only need study His word and decrees to show yourself
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approved, and to find out what the King believes in, and desires for all His Kingdom. For this reason, you are allowed to understand the meaning of all He has written, and all that He requires. This is the greatest gift one could ever receive, because His servants take care of the chores of the household, but you get to lead it. So, your training begins. You study to obtain wisdom and understanding. Through your readings, you find that the King

The vision for the witness

Several years ago, I used to go door to door, evangelizing for Christ, using a well-known program, taught to us at the church. The program used was very effective in bringing people to Christ. During its use, I saw many people accept Christ as Lord and Savior, but

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there was one thing missing, they would never go to church after the conversion.

This concerned me a lot, so I sat down and prayed about this. This is what the Lord showed me, and said. The Vision: In a vision, I saw a woman that the Lord called Sue. He then showed me how I looked to Him, when I brought someone to Christ. I saw myself pull the lady up in the air. I told the lady to stand up and walk, because she was now saved, and set free. To my surprise, the lady fell to the ground, and her leg was broken. The Lord told me that it would be a long time before she could ever walk again. He said that her needs would be great, because of the fall. It was then that I saw myself get down on the floor, and start to tend to her needs and feelings. The Lord said that it was I, who had broken her leg, by
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lifting her up to my level of faith, and then letting go of her. He told me I should have allowed her time to sit and learn about Him and his love, before ever starting a journey. I didnt even allow her time to enjoy being a new born, in Him. When I started to think about it, even new born babies have to learn how to crawl, before they can walk. I, on the other hand, came right in with the gospel, explaining how she needed to attend church, get involved, and do things for Christ. It was then that the Lord showed me why she had no strength to stand up. He showed me her home life. As I looked, I noticed that the lady had very unhappy surroundings. Her husband was having an affair with another woman. Along with this, her child was on drugs, and running the streets late at night. It was then that I started to understand that I had never formed a relationship with the individual, beyond my need to get them
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saved. I had not considered that many individuals need more than just preaching, they need love, comfort, support, prayer and help. You see, I didnt even know her middle name. This was when the vision ended. I believe I learned my lesson. People need to feel that they can trust you, rely on you, believe you, and seek you for help. Its the same way with God. Its the same way with you, and I. You see, we are His witness. You are Gods tool to build faith, hope, and life. Youre more than a witness. Youre a contractor to help build lives for Christ. If we will ever reach the lost, we will need to get involved. We need to love them, as well as care for them, and, also, give them our prayers. Its true, every person we meet in life needs to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ, but they also need your prayers, and
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understanding care, to develop the strength needed to keep on believing. This second part of the book was made for just that purpose. Thank you for taking the time to pray. Love, Dan.

Welcome
In the study group work shop, its my hope that each born again believer can find their place with God, and become solidly grounded in the fact that God loves, and cares about His children. Feel free to add, or subtract any area you want to. Its your group, or personal study. If this is used for a study group, you might try meeting at least once a week, to help everybody get to know each other, and start to form a bond of trust.
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Each of us needs to grow up in the Lord, in order to find our place in Christ, and its body of believers. Try bringing a pie or cake to the meeting, with a beverage, to be served before starting each meeting. Then, give the lesson, and pray as needed. Its your group, lead it the best way you think possible. May God Bless you as you teach each study, and may your group and church grow in numbers. My Cross to Carry Work Book on Love Believing that everyone in the study group has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, the next step would be to learn of the Lord, and study the fundamental teachings of Christ, in order to develop a strong biblical character of body, soul and mind, through an intimate relationship with God. If someone has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, now is a good time to
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introduce Christ into their life. Read Appreciated, valued and Loved, by the same author, for help, if needed. God desires a relationship with you. He doesnt want tiny little robots, that look like Him, and act like Him. He wants you to be you. The only thing He requires, is that, as the relationship grows, so does the understanding of sin awareness. He is not pointing out faults in you. His desire is to create within you, the power of Himself. God desires a church that follows after Him, in a walk of love and obedience. His heart of love always says, you are approved and accepted. Remember, it was not by works that got you saved, it was by faith, in what Jesus did for you at the cross. Its my hope that you will learn to love yourself and others, as you take this course. Most likely, you have joined a church, and are listening to the sermons every week. This is probably the most awkward feeling
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in a new born Christians life. Youre just not used to it. You may even think people are looking at you, as well as you looking at them. Youre new, what can I say? They just want to make you feel like you belong, and sometimes they just dont know what to say, or how to respond. Lets give each other a break, and just say, Hello, my name is ---------------, and I would like to introduce myself to you. The more often you make yourself available, as a friend, the more often people will smile, and associate with you. Hopefully, after attending church for a period of time, you will feel more comfortable in associating with other members, and you will feel welcome. That wasnt so hard was it? Oh, by the way, remember to use breath mints, or chew gum. I had an older lady tell me, one time, that I had bad breath. It kind of took me back a step, and, in some ways, it
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made me mad. It wasnt until the next night at choir, that a small girl crawled into my lap, and, with a smile, gave me a big hug. I asked her how she was doing, when all of a sudden, she turned to her mother and said; Mommy, his breath stinks. Ok, I got the message! From that day forward, I always chewed gum at church. You may want to do the same. Remember, were not here to offend people, were here to help them. Even though your church group will be known as the church of the gum chewers, they will still compliment you on your breath. Are you ready to start? In five minutes: With pen or pencil in hand, think about someone, or turn to the one youre with, and write down five wonderful things about that person.
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a.--------------------------------------------------b.--------------------------------------------------c.--------------------------------------------------d.--------------------------------------------------e.--------------------------------------------------Now, list five wonderful things about yourself. a.--------------------------------------------------b.--------------------------------------------------c.--------------------------------------------------d.--------------------------------------------------e.--------------------------------------------------Did you find it harder to write about yourself, more than the other person? Most people do.

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We seem to always think of others better than ourselves. What you need to learn is how to have a good relationship with you. Then, and only then, can we have a good relationship with God. This is dangerous, because if you dont see yourself of any value at all, youll believe that God sees you of no value, also. Your wrong thinking, or mind set, will cause you to form an opinion of self that does not fit in with the bible. Instead of reading the bible in a positive way, about how much you are loved, and valued, you will look at all the laws and decrees, as if you failed to meet the grade, and need to perform, for acceptance and worth. You will see yourself under the curse, and not the promise, punishment, instead of grace. You may even condemn yourself for sins, that are not sins at all. The worst case scenario would be, a mindset that says, you never measure up to Gods standards.
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Lets look at a few bible scriptures that point to Gods love for us, and then, well talk about them. Gods Love for us is unconditional. Look Up: 1 John 3:16 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. 1 John 4: 19 We love him, because he first loved us. 2 John 1: 5 And now, I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. 6 And, this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard, from the beginning, ye should walk in it.

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1 John 4: 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth, is not made perfect in love. Ask Yourself: 1. Why did God come to save us? 2. Am I really that important? 3. If God is Love, why dont I feel loved? 4. What if I mess up? 5. How can I be made perfect in love? Lets look at question number one. Why did God come to save us? 1. God always felt you were important, even when you were told by others, or by self, that you may have been a mistake. God still wanted you. God sees potential in each and every one of us. Believing this is a walk of faith. To not believe this, is to prove to others that your works for value stand for something. If you dont
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believe this, look at Cane and Able, and their sacrifice to God. Whos sacrifice was accepted, and why? Whos wasnt, and why not? You see, Able brought a lamb offering, that provided no works. Cane worked hard in the field, to bring in a great crop. His offering was rejected. If God had accepted Canes offering, it would have meant that our works gives us approval. Therefore, a bigger and better offering would have to be sought, each and every time we came to God, for greater, and greater approval. Pretty soon, somebody would come up with the idea of a building, or a tower to reach God. Lets look at question number two. Am I really that important? He thought of you enough to die for you. With each blow He took, He said; Now they can be approved. With each
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stripe, He said; Now they can be healed. When He carried the cross, He carried your heavy burdens and pains. He also carried all your mistakes and sins, as well as all your hurt feelings of sorrow. For this reason, when someone was found hurting you, they were hurting Him. All of this, and more, was given to you, as well as heaven itself. Remember, youre also called a child of God, with position and authority. You stand among many in this world as great, but some of you dont even know it. Lets look at question number three. If God is Love, why dont I feel loved? Many people dont feel loved, because they listen to the wrong voice. That inner voice, on the inside of them, called the Holy Spirit, says they are, and always will be, His, by position, power,
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and by authority, given to them, through Christ.

But, if you listen to the world, and all the people whose walk in life leads away from God, you will hear nothing but sin, doubts, loss and pain. Condemnation runs high, along with performance, with its higher demands of self that never stops. Its like a ladder that reaches to the heaven, and you cant get off, you just keep on climbing. Works for approval will always make you feel less than loved or approved. God gave you grace, to end the works cycle. Lets look at question number four. What if I mess up? What if you mess up? Youll mess up. No one is perfect, Only Jesus, God. Thats why He came to save us. Look at
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Romans 3: 23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Lets look at question number five. How can I be made perfect in love? To be made perfect in love means to be like Him. He is love. He sought after others in love. He knew He was love, and therefore, found no condemnation
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within Himself. He wants you to love yourself, and then, and only then, can you really love others. He was not prideful, only submissive to the one He called, Father in Heaven. He gave His life because of love. He did not look for any other way, but by the Fathers will, because He saw your need. Again He chose love. Look at Romans 13: 10: Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Ask yourself, and others, if in a group: 1. How can I show love to my wife, or husband, or family members, or friends? How can I show love and respect to others, at work, or gatherings? How can I show love for myself? Explain love in your own words, when it comes to yourself. In what
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2. 3. 4.

5.

way could you improve in loving me? Each one of you, start this statement by saying, I love me because, ----------------. Now, you fill in the blanks. One example would be: I love me, because God loves me, approves of me, and called me His own.

Love is the greatest gift you can give to each other. The second greatest gift, is forgiveness. Ask yourself this question, Am I forgiven? If so why? These are two great questions to talk over, because each person thinks they have to do something, in order to get something. Remember, it was a gift, a free gift. All you had to do was ask for it. All He had to do was supply a way for you to get it. That way, was Jesus Christ.

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REMEMBER: You dont have to be perfect to be accepted, only accepted to be perfect. (Gods rule, by Grace, when you accept Jesus Christ, as Lord, and Savior.) There is no other way. It costs you nothing, and yet at the same time, gives you everything. You now belong to Him. Remember, belonging to Him is not like owning an item, and now He owns you. Belonging is a place you now stand, like I now belong to a new family, with all its rights, with position and authority. You were once outside the family, with no rights. But now, you belong inside the family, and have the same rights and privileges as others. No one can take that away. Once you accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you accepted His right to forgive you of all your faults, mistakes and sins. If you make a mess of things again, just pray, and get back into your
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daddys arms, once again, and do His will. Who is your daddy? God, Himself. He likes being called Aba Father, thats what He is. He wanted so much to save you, that He came as the person Jesus Christ, to die on the cross, just for you. There is no other way to Heaven. You may have more to discuss on the area of love. Feel free to add at any time. Its your group, open it up for discussion at any time.

My Cross to Carry Work Book on Relationship My Story: Ill never forget when I first met my wife, Pat. I had been single now for about 10 years. I had just started a new job, and was required to take the inter-office mail down
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town, once a week. After working for the company for 5 months, I walked into the billing department one day, and saw a new female employee sitting at a desk, for the first time. When I saw her, my spirit said; Theres love. I could hardly believe I said that, but I did. It was then that I decided to ask her out. It took a while for her to finally say yes, 7 years to be exact, but after 3 months of dating, I proposed, and she accepted. That was almost 20 years ago, and each day, when she comes downstairs, I still say; Theres love. Its amazing how God works. One minute, you think to yourself, youre destined to be alone, and the next minute, God introduces Himself as the gift giver, and adviser for your life. At least, thats the way it was for me. I had spent most of my life feeling rejected by my parents, and other individuals, that had put me down in life, but this time, it was different.
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God was in control, and He was about to change my whole way of thinking and living. Little did I know it, but God would lead me into the greatest relationship of my life. And, of all things, He was going to use my wife to show Himself, and change the way I saw relationships, completely. So, lets start building a relationship with God as Father, Love, Friend, Helper, Provider, Comforter, and Wisdom Giver, for our lives. God wants to be your provider and healer in life, but the first thing well have to do, is learn to trust in someone you hardly know. Meeting God for the first time is like a dating relationship. Youre hopeful, yet scared. You wonder what he or she is like, and can only imagine. You heard from others about this person, and now youve been given a chance to find out for yourself.
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In the past, many people, who did not want to know God, gave a false word on what He was like. They reported Him to be a task master, and a law giver, someone who manipulates others with fear, and condemnation. Therefore, these false brethren caused others to stay away from the fellowship of knowing Him, as Lord and Savior. Those who did call on Him as Lord and Savior, reported just the opposite. He wasnt like what the false brethren reported at all. Those that did know Him, reported Him to be a support, and a right arm to lean on, also, a great friend in life. They found Him constantly encouraging His children, and lifting them up every time they fell. This last statement is true, for you will always find Him as more than a friend and comforter, helper and provider. For this reason, this is where we will spend most of our time. We each need to go beyond a dating
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relationship, and start to know Him as lover, companion and friend, but to get to this part of the relationship, it will require something of you. Something that you have never done in life, its called stepping out and finding out where God is, and where He hangs out at. To do this, you will have to start attending activities He likes to show up at. In some cases, youll have to do things youve never done before, like go to church. Thats the way it is in every relationship, when it first starts out, you have to get to know them in all types of environments.

This was the way it was with Pat and me. I still remember taking Pat to events, where she and I would feel comfortable at. It was at these events that we each started to form a relationship of trust, as friends. Later in life, it moved forward into love, and then, total commitment. You see, I never pushed
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myself on Pat, and God will never push Himself on you. He will be a gentleman, at all times. His commitment toward you is solid, and does not waver. At the same time, God encourages you along, but always walks your pace of life, because He knows what youve gone through in life. He is never forceful or full of self. He always has your best interest in mind. This is proven as you watch Him in His surroundings, for the more you see His character and His personality in operation, the more you see what He is really like. As you watch Him take care of the needs of His children, and how great His love is for them, the more you will open your heart to the one called Father. This is where He wants to be. He wants to live inside of you, in your heart and thoughts, every day. He wants you to speak to your spirit, and understand that He has nothing but good thoughts toward you, as His child. His motive is always a walk of love toward you.
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He also wants you to know, He is right there when it hurts. When youre in need He wants you to look upon Him as youre helper, healer, and provider. He assures you with His presence, that He will not leave you like others have, in the past. When you are being attacked by others, He wants to be your defender, and encourager. Many who give up when life hurts, withdraw, and run to past feelings of not being valuable or lovable. Dont believe this about Him. He loves you, and is more than willing to help you along. Remember, we each need to seek Him first, and not self, and all its bad feelings. This is totally up to you. If youre willing to trust and wait on Him, youll find Him to be more than just a friend, and a help in time of need, but, in order to prove all these things, there is one thing you will have to do, you are going to have to go to the place
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where He hangs out, and spend time with Him. The first place He hangs out at, is in His word, for, if you really love Him, youll believe Him at His word. The second place he is always found, is in the Holy of Holies. This is where youll have to seek His presence. In order to reach Him here, youll have to learn to praise Him on His level, and leave self behind. The third place, and easiest way of getting His attention, is to pray, because He is always listening to you. Its true, whenever I read His word, He is always there. Whenever I praise Him, He is always there, and whenever I pray, He is always there. I have yet to have Him ever leave me, and Ive found Him faithful, in all my situations. Therefore, since He is always with me, I
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know He will always be with you. And I know thats what you have always wanted, someone to believe in, and count on. You have also wanted someone who believes in you, and wants to support you in life. You know someone who loves you, for who you are, not someone who finds faults and judges you, in everything you do. You want someone to encourage you. That person is God. God does not condemn you, He loves you. He only wants to help you out of all those wrong situations, and lifelong patterns that keep hurting you, and others, on this road called life. He wants to help clear your roadway, so to speak, of these destructive emotional choices of selfishness. You know the choices that seemed right and fun at the time, but later on lead you into one sinful argument after another, with others who care.
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If youre not willing to give up your choices as of yet, you may have even informed everyone that this is your life, stay out. What youre really doing, is protecting your sin and choices on how you are going to live. God will respect your pattern of living, even though it leaves Him out, and pushes Him away. You see, He gave you free choice. Its up to you on how much you want God in your life, and where you will allow Him in. You may say no to Him when it comes to money or giving, but yes to Him when it comes to comfort. Some trust God in every part of their life, and some are very strong willed, and only want Him as their savior.

Ask yourself: 1. Is God always with me?

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2. 3.

4.

5.

Is He faithful to me when I do wrong? After doing wrong, I feel so guilty. How can I stop this feeling of guilt from hurting my relationship with Him, because I seem to want to run away, so to speek, and give up? Learning to trust is hard. I need to see Him. Where is He when I feel alone, and am afraid? Is He really helping me? Leading me? Guiding me? I want to know where He is.

Lets start with question number one. Is God always with me? The answer is, yes, Always. He invested a lot for you, only you. He loved you so much, that He was willing to die for you, just so He could have a relationship with you. He wanted to take you out of the enemys hand, and hide you in the presence of His love. Look at Hebrews 13: 5 Romans 8: 39
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Lets look at question number two. Is He faithful to me when I do wrong? The answer is, yes. The reason is, because He can never go back on His child. He loves you. You have been given the free choice to walk away, but He will never leave you. You are His child. He knows you are not perfect, a child never is. A child starts out in life, learning how to crawl before he, or she, ever learns how to walk. Even if they have developed skills and strength to run the race, some have fallen and have had to get back up, dust themselves off, and start over. We are not here to judge, but to support, and encourage others along the road called success. If you think you cant be forgiven, then I would say youre walking the road by way of a culvert. This is where all the water, rocks and debris lay. A culvert follows the roadway, but does not live on a higher plain. If I were you, I would climb up onto the
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roadway, which is that straight, and narrow highway that leads to Him. That road is smooth and free of obstructions. God never wanted you, as a Christian, to think of yourself higher and more perfect than anyone else. At the same time, God never wanted you, as a Christian, to think of yourself below another Christian, as a failure, with less value than anyone else. At the same time, dont pridefully raise yourself above others, learn to encourage, and exalt each other, as Gods children. We are all equal as Gods children, if you have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, some just dont realize it. Read the story of David in the bible, where David sinned many times, yet God called him a man after Gods own heart. 2 Sam 7:21 on. And, dont forget Peter in the New Testament, where he denied Jesus three times, and later on, was encouraged back into the ministry. Luke 22: 61.
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For some reason, we, as people, are quick to blame, but slow to forgive self and others. God is just the opposite. He is more than willing to forgive when we call on Him, because He does not want any to have to face punishment, thats the reason why He died on the cross. God wanted to save lives by the cross, not punish them. Therefore, there is only one thing left to do. Confess your sins, repent, and ask forgiveness. Read 1 John 1:9. Lets look at question number three: After doing wrong, I feel so guilty. How can I stop this feeling of guilt from hurting my relationship with Him, because I seem to want to run away, so to speak, and give up? I feel like such a failure. We all do this. Were up one minute, and down the next. Wouldnt it be great if we could have just one perfect day in life?
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Well, you can try, but I dont know how successful youll have it. Life is full of trials and tests, some light, and some very hard. How you react to them is your choice. The same trial, when you werent a Christian, was probably acted upon in a very worldly way. You became angry and threw things, and said words you wish you could have taken back. After you became Christian, the same trial was responded to by you in, probably, a less worldly way. If the same trial came to you after being a Christian for more than thirty years, you probably responded in total love, and not worldly at all. What was the difference? You, you grew up, but in each case, the trial brought forth some type of guilt. The first time, you may not have had any guilt at all, because you werent even aware of sin, as of yet. The second time the trial happened, guilt over took your life, to the point of feeling over whelmed. The
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reason is that there is a need deep down on the inside of us to feel perfect and right, by some act of what we could, or should have done. The guilt from failing causes us to want to give up, and think we cant live the Godly life. We base our performance on self, without grace. For this reason, only after being a Christian for a period of time, do you develop the understanding of perfect love casting out all fear. Look at: 1John 4:18, Roman 8:1, Lets look at question four: Learning to trust is hard. I need to see Him. Where is He, when I feel alone and am afraid? Youre right, learning to trust is hard. I know this to be a fact. Some of my own personal trials have lasted for years, and it was my day by day, of putting away childish things, that allowed me to climb over top of each situation as it came. Some of the trials people face in life are
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very large, but remember this, He will never give you anything beyond what you can handle. If youre in a trial right now, do this one thing. Draw close to Him, so He can draw close to you. You will also need to remember this to: Each trial you walk through in life brings surrender to the flesh, and an increase of your spiritual awareness, as you draw close to Him. You see, your flesh never surrenders on its own. It likes being in control. It likes sin, fleshly toys, and habits, but trials, on the other hand, make us grow up and resist earthly ideas, with all of its wants for self. You see, the spirit within you is willing, but the flesh is weak. Believe me, He is right there, watching, waiting, and helping you become a better you. You are His instrument for service, where timing and usefulness is totally in
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His hands. Look at 1 John 20:25, 1 Cor 13: 11, Mark 26:41, 1 Peter 1:7. Lets look at question number five: Is He really helping me? Leading me? Guiding me? I want to know where He is. I know you feel alone right now, especially if youre going through a trail, but He really does have your best interest in mind. I have had to cry over some of the things I had to go through in life, also. It hurts, but remember this, if you hurt because of some of the actions done by someone else, then remember, God has to work on more than one person. Not only does He have your interest in mind, He has the other persons, also, and where you may be more than willing to listen to God, and have a change of heart. The other person may take longer, and that sometimes means a very long time period. It could be many, many, many
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years before they respond correctly, or it could be just a few days. Therefore, lets never stop praying, but lets, you and I, keep moving forward, as God calls. This way, God can work on them alone, and on their timing of willingness to respond to Him. Remember, God is Love. The same love He has for you, with patience and understanding, is the same patience, understanding and love that He is willing to show to others. All they have to do, is accept it. Give them time. Lets look at: 1 Isa 12: 2, Hab 3:19, 2 Sam 22:13, Psa 59:9. My Cross to Carry Work Book On Forgiveness Lets talk about forgiveness, when it comes to self and others. This is the hardest part of growing up in the body of Christ. After being saved, take a guess who might offend you, youre right, other Christians. We dont mean to, but were
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all human. We live each day with trials and situations, just like the world. We have problems and wrongs done to us, just like the world. There is one thing that is different. We have God on our side, the world doesnt. We, as Christians, can pray and forgive others, but the world wants to get even. We can ask for help from the Heavenly Father, the world, on the other hand, exalts self and demands acknowledgement. There is one thing God wants from each of us, and that is to forgive each other of our faults and wrong doings. To not hold onto the hurts of the past, but to let go of what happened yesterday, so that you and I can be set free today. Isnt that amazing? Im set free, by letting go of someone elses sin. Even if it hurts, I still need to forgive. What does forgiveness do for you? It gives you access to the Father, and answers to prayers.
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It also unloads the mind of torment, and sets the heart free to enjoy life. This alone, will give you a good nights sleep. Why forgive? God commanded us to forgive. You see, He wants you to grow up to be just like Him, perfect in love. Also, youll have to remember, your Father, in Heaven, forgave you of your faults and sins, maybe you should forgive the person who hurt you also. Lets look at some bible verses on forgiveness, and then well talk. Luke 6: 37 says, Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For, with the same measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again.
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Mark 11: 26 If ye do not forgive, neither will your Father, which is in heaven, forgive your trespasses. The story of Joseph. Lets now look at the acts of forgiveness from a brother, who could have, by all rights, had his older brothers killed for what they had done. The story of Joseph and his brothers is about envy and trickery that takes place in the desert. Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers, because of jealousy, but God, later on in the bible, delivers him out of bondage and makes him second in charge of Egypt. During a time of lack throughout the land, the brothers seek help in Egypt for food and provision. Little do they realize it, but the man they are bowing to is their brother, Joseph, who has become second in charge of Egypt. Joseph, later on in the story, is about to make himself known to his brothers.
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Gen43: 45:1 Then, Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. 2 And, he wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard. 3 And, Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence. 4 And, Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. 5 Now, therefore, be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. 6 For, these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in
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the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest. 7 And, God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 So, now, it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. 9 Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: 10 And, thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: After reading the bible verses, you can see how forgiveness brought the family back together. Forgiveness by Joseph, also set his
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brothers free. Joseph, for the first time, now sees Gods plan for the nation of Israel, and why he had to go through so much. Ask yourself: What would have happened if Joseph had not forgiven his brothers? What would have happened to the nation of Israel? Now ask yourself: What will happen if you do, or do not forgive the person who owes you, for wrong done to you? How will it affect you? How will it affect them? Lets look at forgiveness, when it comes to that last question asked of you. This is the way God sees it. This is the story of the man who is constantly wronged by a certain person. The story also shows the acts of being forgiven, and the act of those who do not wish to forgive. Matt 18: 21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin
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against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. 23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him,
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and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.29 And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.31 So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 33 Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.

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35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses. Lets also look at the Lords Prayer. Luke 11: 4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. Are you starting to understand about forgiveness? Its a two way street. We have to forgive, and we constantly have to ask for forgiveness, for our own sins. The last thing in the world you want, is broken fellowship with God. Even though you think youre justified for your angry actions or feelings, youre not. We still have to forgive others, and at the same time, take some of the blame for what it may have done to our walk with God. I know one such person, who never asks for
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forgiveness. They think everyone else is wrong, and theyre right. If this is you, cast down your pride and rebellion, and pick up the cross again. You see, we each make mistakes and need forgiveness. No one is perfect. Why put the blame on someone else? It could be that youre the one that has the problem, not them. I know this for a fact. Years ago, I lost my job. I blamed everyone. It was several months later, God showed me that it was my attitude and pride, that helped set things in motion. Sure, they had some part in it too, but so did I. I had to face up to it, so I did. I called each person, and apologized for my actions. When I did this, I was set free inside. My anger left, and so did the hurt.

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Ask yourself: 1. Who, or what offence am I holding on to that is years old, that I need to let go?

If you cant remember, ask the Lord to show you. Its time to Pray and Forgive: Now, forgive, and ask forgiveness, even if they are not in the same room with you. Tell the Lord, and them, the debt is paid,
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even if they are not there with you. Now, ask the Lord to take the hurt and pain away, with His love and forgiveness. Finish the prayer, In Jesus Name. Now, ask yourself: What offence, or sin that I have done in my lifetime, has caused others to feel pain? Whom have I wronged? Whom do I need to ask forgiveness from? ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ Having trouble asking someone to forgive you? I did too, its called pride. No one wants to be wrong, but your life style may have damaged the lives of others. It may have cost others tears and financial grief.
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Your wrong choices may have even cost you your outlook on how you see self, and others. The only way to repair this, is by asking and giving forgiveness to self and others. Im proud of you. Love, Dan My Cross to Carry Work Book on Faithfulness: Gods faithfulness, this is a very touchy story. Why? Because, God loves you, and many people like to test Him, when it comes to Him being faithful. You would think that as his children, we would learn not to test the Heavenly Father, but we do. I think its because we dont know any better. Were like kids, playing with our toys in the backyard, when all of a sudden, we hear something outside the boundaries of our protection. We look, and are so excited to find out, that the ice cream truck is heading
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our direction. Weve been told not to go outside the yard or boundary, but we cant help ourselves. Well even take every penny we have to get to its sweetness, only to find out, we spoiled our parents dinner plans that evening. Why did we do it? Were a child, thats why. We think we have a better way of doing things, and we havent learned to discipline ourselves enough to say, no. Even though we arent faithful, the Father is. Even when we do wrong, the Heavenly Father is still with us. You see, we really are His, and He really does love us. He invested a lot to adopt you, therefore He is not going to let go of you, just because you fall, or fail to meet the mark. His love and faithfulness go hand in hand. His love is always there, and so is His faithfulness. Therefore, you cant have one, without the other. I like the way the bible quotes it. Romans 8:39 says; neither height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able
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to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord.

In other words, He is over shadowing you and watching over you, with His Love. His hand is upon you, to guide and direct you in life. You see, He has plans for you, far greater than what you could ever have imagined, but we, like children, sometimes only see the prize of a sweet ice cream treat, outside our protection and home life. We go running astray, after some wild game, to only get hurt in the end. The result being, we blame God for not protecting us, even if we werent in His will. We, as children, forget to ask for permission, and need to seek the Fathers will in all things. He doesnt want to control us; He only wants to take us through the right path to get there. Some children are strong willed, while some learn very quickly.
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For this reason, it only takes a few times of not getting their own way, for some of His children to finally give up, and ask for help and direction. God doesnt want you to fail, He wants you to succeed in life, and win at every event, but we all must learn to follow. This is where faith and His faithfulness go hand in hand, to accomplish the journey. It takes a constant fellowship of trust and belief, in order to reach each goal, but remember, its you that has to walk through each door of opportunity, and its you that has to follow the Spirit of God. For this reason, life is what you make of it. Its how you believe, and who you believe in, God. Therefore, dont despise small beginnings, because small beginnings always lead to larger steps of assurance, and then, finally, the goal is reached. He will never leave you, or forsake you. You can always say, God is my helper.
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+My son Shawn: Years ago, my son went to college. Every quarter, my son received almost a 4 point average, and was placed on the deans list. After graduating from college, my son expected to receive a position in the computer field, making great money. This didnt happen. Instead, he was offered a job with a computer repair shop, making a considerably less amount. I saw the look on my sons face, when he told me what had happened. I reminded him that God was not finished with him yet, and that this was only a stepping stone to a larger adventure in the journey. I then told my son not to despise small beginnings, and that God would promote him later on, as he got more skills. Sure enough, it happened just that way. Within two years, he went from repairing computers, to working with the school system, teaching, repairing and training
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others in the field. The new job promotion allowed him to receive a much larger salary, and he was advanced to where he wanted to be. You see, God is always faithful. He just doesnt want your pride to get in the way of your success. He always starts you off small, then, watches how you handle yourself, in what He has given you. He loves a humble, thankful heart, and is more than willing to promote His children, when they are ready. God often times looks like a mother eagle, waiting for His children to fly. A mother eagle does this with careful understanding that one day, they will be like her. For this reason, she watches day and night, until the child is ready to fly on their own, but first, the child must gain insight and understanding on what it takes, to be like her in flight.

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For this reason, she demonstrates herself to her child, as she masters the sky, and shows her faithfulness to the child she loves. As the new born watches, he, or she develops courage, and belief that they, and the mother are alike, and it is not very long, before the child believes they are ready, and they jump from the nest, to try their wings for the first time. As each baby eagle takes off, mother watches on, just in case someone needs help. Just like the parent eagle, God has His hand underneath, you ready to encourage you on, and to support you, when needed. For, the breath of His Spirit lifts you up, and the voice of His love, leads you to the way called success. Therefore, you can always say; God is my helper. All you need to do, is act like Him, in love and obedience. Remember, its up to you, to take the leap of faith.
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In some cases, a person has had the training, and the doors have been open for years. They just need to step out, and respond in faith. Some are just afraid to step out, and find out what may happen. Wasnt it God Himself who said; Prove Me.? Remember, God is Love. and He is not about to let you down. He will always be faithful. to the end. If youve missed it before, try again. Remember, God is always faithful to His word, because His word is Him Lets look at John 1:1 to prove this. John 1:1 says; In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. You see, God can not lie about His word, because He is the word. His character is in the word. Therefore, truth is in the word, and that makes the word reliable, because

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the bible says, that God can not lie. He is truth. The bible also says that God is the same, yesterday, today and forever. Therefore, He will not change in the middle of your situation. He will never change, because He has to be faithful to His word. The bible also says, that God is Love. Remember, Faith and Love belongs together, when it comes to God. The bible says in John 3:16, that God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that who shall believe in Him, shall not perish, but have ever lasting life. That everlasting life is here, today. It waits for you to step out. It is the faithfulness of God, through Jesus Christ. All we have to do, is believe and receive. I dont know about you, but I think its time for us to move forward in life. Its time to enjoy all the goodness that God has to offer. It only takes someone like you, to say yes, and then fly.
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Lets look at: 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Hebrew 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) Psa 119:90 Your faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abide. Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Mark 9:23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. 1 John 16;24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. 25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall
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no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. 26 At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: 27 For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. 28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. My Cross to Carry Work Book on Commitment Although we as Gods children experience many trials in life, the greatest trial we will ever have to go through, is the trial of commitment. For, many give up, and walk away from their dreams, believing that it is impossible to reach the goal, or receive the prize most
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wanted in life. Therefore, if we are ever going to find success, we will first have to let go of self, and its inferior belief that we are not qualified, or capable of receiving the gift God brings. God will always be faithful to you and me, but when trials come, we either move forward, or pull back. Ive seen this in many peoples lives, as they resist the call, and move into a still life style of doing nothing, when it comes to the advancement of God, or self, in education and skills. The real reason they do this is doubt, doubt of self, doubt of God, and doubt of others. Even if they wouldnt believe in self or others, God is always right there with them. It is best to believe in God alone, knowing our strength is positioned and resting in Gods hands, for each and every event that comes before us. Success is not based on our ability, but on our commitment to Gods word. Therefore, dont rely on your own strength, but on Gods.
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The bible says it so clearly; For when I am weak He is strong. For this reason, we can count on His word to pull us through difficult times, and overwhelming trials, that look beyond our strength. The bible says; God is not a man that He should lie, neither the Son of man that He should repent. For this reason, we have a promise, by God, that He will see us through. I know this to be true in my own life, for many times, I had fallen and felt like I couldnt get up, or even want to run the race anymore, but then, all of a sudden, here comes God to the rescue. He pulled me up, wiped off the dust I fell in, and helped me walk the second mile of the journey called life. You see, its not God that lets us down, its us. We each have a tendency to look back at failures from years ago, when we had yet to know of His ways. The reason why we failed, was because of the self-factor in life, I will, I want, I desire, with little respect to prayer, and Gods will and direction, for each
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project we seek in life. If we would just turn over every little thing we do to God, and seek His face daily, we would have a greater success rate, and less bumps and burses in life. So, why do we fail? Well, there are two factors that cause failure, doubt and sin. You see, when we each sin, we fill our lives with everything, but God. When we doubt, we pull away from God. I had one lady call it candy coated sin that made her go wrong. She saw sin for what it was. It was sweet to the taste, but after eating it, sin turned bitter to her stomach. Remember the ice cream truck a few pages back? Thats the way sin is. The flesh delights in what it is doing, and it loves to bring others on board, so it can party all hours of the night. Sin has little regard for a persons mental, spiritual and physical life. Only God wants your best. Many have even said God doesnt care or love me, but if they only knew how committed He was to their lives, they wouldnt do what they do. So, I
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have to ask you this one question, Was it sin that lead you away from your goal and vision, or was it doubt? Maybe it was both. God promises us that He will never leave us or forsake us, and that we can always count on Him to help us. Its up to us to believe and commit our ways to Him. Therefore, dont count on others, count on God. Every day, I have the right to choose what path I take in life. I can either, sin, doubt, or believe. I can do something with what God has given me, or I can waste it upon selfish desires of the flesh. I can move forward, or I can hold back, and listen to my emotions. I can childishly demand, or I can receive the goodness of God, in grace, to give and offer my services, to others in need. Life is up to you, and how committed you are to it. God is not against you, He is for you, but the choice is up to you. You are the one that has to decide whether or not you will commit to God and His
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ways. Commitment requires one thing from you, and that is, that you dont look back. Yesterdays hurts and pains should be counted as steps to develop your strength and character. Trials are not meant to defeat you, but strengthen you. Trials bring us closer to God, strengthen the spiritual man, and tear down walls of resistance in the flesh. Its the enemy that wants to destroy you, not God. If you really think about it, sin and doubt caused your trial and pain, in the first place. Therefore, understand this one thing, God is love. He is committed to you, and rejoices in your success. Learn to follow Him. Let go of self, and follow the peace of God within you. God is committed to you. He will always be committed to you. His loving word proves this.
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Remember, God is always with you. He never lacks in loving His children. You, my friend, are His child. Learn to live like it. Learn to follow, and learn to love yourself and others. God has set before us, a whole world to conquer, in His Name. Its yours for the taking. Learn to Love, and learn to Live, in the Glory of God. Love, Dan Mason P.S. GOD LOVES YOU!

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