TGIF - Using Others

Today's Prayer
Dear God, Opportunities abound. Please help me 2 discern when an opportunity is something that You have placed b4 me and when it is something that would be contrary 2 Your will. Stir my conscience and bring questions, examples,and Scripture 2 my mind that will guide me in this process. Help me 2 consider biblical values; ethics; the gifts, skills, and abilities You have given me; my family and other commitments; and anything else they may open my eyes 2 the truth. Encourage me 2 grasp the opportunities You give and 2 turn from the opportunities that I should not touch. Thank You, God, 4 Your hands of guidance and Your arms of Love. In Jesus' name, amen.

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Using Others
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman
09-19-2011
"So in everything, do 2 others what u would have them do 2 u, 4 this sums up the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 7:12).


Have u ever heard the term, "Money talks?" This old cliché has some truth 2 it. How we handle money speaks very loudly about our values, especially among those in the marketplace.


One of the common business practices today is to extend payment on invoices 2 use that time 2 extend a company's cash flow. The bigger companies can often insist upon even longer times 4 payment. And bcoz this practice is so prevalent it allows a business that honors their vendors w/on-time payments 2 stand out from the crowd.


This delayed payment policy violates a basic biblical principle. "Give everyone what u owe him: If u owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor" (Rom 13:6-7).       One of your greatest opportunities 2 show u are different is in the practical matters of being faithful 2 your obligations. True servant-hood is revealed when we have the best interest of others in mind. This means not always seeking 2 negotiate the lowest price 4 services, but the price that is fair and still honors the vendor 4 his service or product. "For in the same way u judge others, u will be judged, and w/the measure u use, it will be measured 2 u" (Matt 7:2).


Use money 2 demonstrate your respect of others by paying others in a timely manner.


Today God Is First (TGIF) devotional message, Copyright by Os Hillman, Marketplace Leaders.

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23 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========   ~ Mark 4:3-8 ~  "Hearken; behold, there went out a sower  sow: and it came  pass, as he sowed, some fell by the wayside, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.  And some fell on stony ground where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprung up, bcoz it had no depth of earth: but when the sun was up, it was scorched: bcoz it had no root, it withered away.   Some fell among thorns, the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded not fruit.  And others fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some 30, some 60, and  some 100."

REASON #23- SOME DO NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOOD SOIL AND BAD SOIL.

The quality of the soil affects the SEED. 
     That is why Jesus never invested time in debating w/Pharisees.  He was the Son of God.  He knew it.  It was their responsibility 2 discern it.  He knew they were "fools and blind" (Matthew 23:17).
     Yet, He took time 2 go home w/the tax collector, Zacchaeus.  U C, He discerned soil worthy of His attention and time.
     Two thieves were crucified beside Christ.  One received mercy.  One did not.  Why?  The thief who believed in the Divinity of Jesus reached out.   Jesus responded.  Both thieves had needs.  Both needed the miracle of salvation.    But, Jesus took the time 2 respond 2  the one who reached out--the good soil.
     Jesus taught the importance of observing the quality of the soil.  "Hearken; behold, there went out a sower 2 sow:  And it came 2 pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.  And some fell on stony ground where it ad not much earth; and immediately it sprung up, bcoz it had no depth of earth:  But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and bcoz it had no root, it withered away.  And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.

     And others fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some 30, and some 60, and some an 100" (Mark 4:3-8).

     Refuse 2 sow SEED into a non-giver.  My treasured friend, Mack Timberlake, taught me this.   Suppose u have a  son-in-law that needs financial help.  What do u do?  Do u hand him money?  Or, do u provide him an opportunity 2 earn it?  There is a great difference.  A lady approached me one night after a meeting and discussed her plight w/me.  Her son-in-law and daughter had been staying w/her 4 several weeks.
     "I feel so sorry 4 them.  They are out of jobs.  They need money.  They are really going thru a great financial trial at this time," she said tearfully.   "So, what does he do everyday at your home?"  "Well, they usually sleep in until 10:00 or so.  Then, they watch TV.  They are waiting 4 doors  open," she explained.
     "Does your daughter prepare your food while u are at work every day?" I asked.  "Oh no, She does not like 2 cook!"  "Does your son-in-law wash your dishes, clean your house, or has he waxed your car, mowed the grass while u are  gone 2 work these days?" 
     "Well, he is kind of depressed right now.  He really does not feel like working.  And, I hate 2 ask him anyway," was her reply.
     I showed her in the Scripture the commandments that Paul wrote  the church at Thessalonica.  "For even when we were w/u, this we commanded u, that if any would not work, neither should he eat" (II Thessalonians 3:10).  He  called those who did not work 'disorderly' (II Thessalonians 3:11).  
     The Apostle Paul instructed us 2 avoid having any fellowship w/those who refuse 2b productive.  "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company w/him, that he may be ashamed"  (II Thessalonians 3:14).
     Now, a lazy person is not necessarily your enemy.  But, his unproductivity is 2b noted, confronted, addressed and penalized (II Thessalonians 3:15).
     That is  unproductive soil.
     Refuse 2 sow SEED into a church that is against financial blessing.  Why would I support any ministry that is in direct rebellion 2 the Laws of provision according 2 Scripture?
     Refuse 2 sow SEED into someone who refuses 2 work when doors open.  "Well, Mike, I am out of work."  Well, u might want 2 define that little differently, since God has only promised 2 'bless all the work of thine hand" (Deuteronomy 28:12).  U C, u can find work.  Anybody can find some kind of work.  It may not pay $40 an hour at first.  It may not be the easiest thing u have ever done.  But, work is everywhere u look in life.
     Refuse 2 sow SEED in someone who is unteachable.  "I really need help.  We cannot pay our bills.  Can u help us at this time?" one of my relatives asked me rather boldly one day.
     "Let's sit down.  I want 2 review your finances w/u," I replied.  "Give me a list of what u owe.  Show me what u are doing 2 earn money.  I am going 2 give u some advice, and if u will follow this advice, I will consider investing in u."
     He did not have the time.  Think about it!  He did not have enough desire 2 prosper 2 even provide me a list of his bills and enter into a counseling session w/me.  He was unqualified 2 receive any SEED.  That is bad soil.  "Poverty and shame shall be 2 him that refuseth instruction:  but the that regardeth reproof shall be honoured" (Proverbs 13:18).
     Look 4 good soil continually.  Now, there are many people near u that are good soil.  Hundreds  of ministries deserve your best SEED sowing.  Look around u.  Evaluate.  Observe those who are productive around u.  Boaz did this when he saw Ruth, he instructed servants 2 make it easier 4 her 2 secure a harvest, "handfuls on purpose."
     I love 2 sow SEED in young ministers.  U C, they are emptying their lives into the gospel.  Some have left good jobs and promise of fortune 2 help broken lives become healed.  They do not have the rewards of momentum.  Great  reputations have not yet been established.  I believe this produces great fruit.
     I love 2 send money 2 ministers who are spreading this gospel of provision and prosperity.  I know their warfare.  They are despised by the world, misunderstood by the church, and fought by those who do not understand t he message of prosperity.  So, I want 2 provide them SEED 2 keep this message of supernatural harvest accessible 2 the hurting.
     I love  sow SEED in proven ministries.  They have fought a good fight.  They have kept the faith.  They have endured.  Endurance should be honored.
     "Mike, every time I plant a SEED in your ministry something happens in my ministry." a minister explained recently.  Well, I really appreciated his statement, but I felt a little embarrassed.  He continued.  "Mike, there really is a difference when I sow SEED in good soil.  It seems that my harvest comes quickly, w/great excellence, and I feel at peace about my SEED sowing."
     Sow SEED into those who have helped u.
     Sow SEED into those who have given u wise counsel and correction.
     Sow SEED into the lives of those who have stayed loyal and faithful.
     Sow SEED into those who are willing 2 labor, toil and empty their life our 4 the cause of the gospel.  "And let us not be weary in well doing: 4 in due Season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Galatians 6:9).
     Many are not carefully choosing the soil where they sow their SEED.  That is one of the reasons they will never reap the 100-fold return God would like 4 them 2 experience.
     Let us pray:
     "Father, where should I be sowing?  Reveal the soil that will produce.  Show me... I will not waste my SEED on unproductive soil.  In Jesus Name.  Amen."

22 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    REASON #22-  THOUSANDS ARE UNWILLING 2 START THEIR HARVEST WITH A SMALL SEED.

Acorns can become oak trees!
     But, most people keep waiting 4 their 'ship  come in' b4 they begin the sowing cycle.  U must start w/what u have.
     This Principle of Beginning is Powerful.  Every long journey starts w/the first small step.  Millionaires started w/their first nickel.  Great companies have humble beginnings.  U can go any where u want 2 go...if u are willing  take enough small steps.
     Look at Mary Kay Ash.  She had just a few thousand dollars and a couple of shelves of products.  But, she started her business.  She focused on her future.  Today, she is worth over 300 million dollars, and her business is worth 2 billion.
     Look at McDonalds's hamburger chain.  From a humble beginning, it has become the most successful hamburger chain on the earth.  It started w/a little hamburger that became popular in a town.
      If u keep holding on 2 the SEED u have today, it will never become a harvest.  U must be willing 2 start your harvest w/whatever God has already placed in your hand.  I sat in a banquet many years ago frustrated.  The speaker stirred me.  I desperately wanted 2 plant a SEED of $1,000 check," I whispered 2 the LORD.  "U have $10 in your pocket.  Plant it."  "Oh, I need my $10 tonight.  But, if You would give me $1,000, I promise 2 sow it," was my answer.
     My mind started churning.  How could I get more money 2 sow?  I thought about my little office.  It was in my tiny garage in Houston, Texas.  That is where I studied, prayed, and also where I had a row of shelves that contained the only product I had in my ministry--one long-play album of music.  500 of those albums were on the shelves.  That was approximately 6 to 8 months of sales 4 me.  Then it hit me.  "Start w/what u already have."
     Little hinges can swing huge doors.  I could give him those 500 albums.  If he sold them for $6.00 each, he would make $3,000 for his ministry.  I made the decision.  "Brother, I wish I had a lot 2 give u.  I wanted 2b able 2 write a check for $1,000, but my ministry is just beginning.  I do have 500 record albums.   If u would receive them from me, u can sell them in your crusades,  If u sell them for $6.00, u wold have $3,000 for your ministry." (I thought I had 2 3xplain this 2 him!)
     Twelve months passed.  One day, while sitting in Nairobi, Kenya, at a missionary's home, the mail came.  It contained a scribbled hand-written note from a major television minister.  "Mike, I heard your record album.  I want 2 purchase 40,000 of them 2 sell thru my television program.  Please rush me 40,000 albums.  I will send u a check 4 them next week."  I shouted all over that room.  
     The profit enable me 2 purchase a beautiful white Lincoln Town Car 4 cash!  It launched an entire different Season 4 my life and ministry.  I was on air every time I drove up 2 a church 4 a crusade.  Why?  I started w/whatever was already in my hand.
     Last week, a lady wrote me a check for $5.00.  She was embarrassed.  She said, "I'm so ashamed 2 send u such a small check, but it is all that I have."  I was reading her letter about 2:00 in the morning after coming in from a major meeting.  My heart was so stirred.  U C, what she was planting was enough 2 impress God.
     He knows how much u have.
     He knows how little u have.
     Your obedience always secures His attention.  U do not have 2 write God a huge check 4 $100,000 2 move His hand toward u.  U simply have 2 obey the inner voice of the Holy Spirit w/whatever u presently possess.
     Remember the incredible scenario of the widow?  "And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury:  and many that were rich cast in much.  And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in 2 mites, which make a farthing.  And He called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto u, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:  For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living" (Mark 12:41-44).
      She started her harvest w/what she had.
      have sowed jewelry, cars, clothes into other lives.  I have planted 100s of 1,000s of books and tapes as special SEEDS.  U C, everything u have is a SEED.
     If u keep it today, that is your Harvest.  But if u release it, it becomes a SEED.  What u presently possess is only a SEED of u sow t into soil.  When u keep it in your hand, it becomes the only harvest u will ever have.  Look around u.  Is there a piece of furniture that a widow needs at her house?  Could u volunteer 2 hours a week at your home church?  That is a SEED.  Start with what u have.
     Are u good at repairing automobiles?  Discuss w/your pastor your desire 2 repair the automobile of any widow in your congregation, as a SEED of Love.
     U are a walking Warehouse of SEEDS.  U have more inside of u than u could ever imagine.  But, u must take the time 2 inventory everything God has given u.
     Do not permit pride 2 rob u of an opportunity 2 plant a SEED.  When the offering plate is passed, even if u only possess $2.00 in your pocket--plant it.
     Get your harvest started.
     As a parent, teach your child the importance of sowing something consistently in the work of God.  It may only be a dime or a quarter.  But, they will create a flow and river of harvest that will outlast every attack against their life.
     Millions are waiting 4 more.  They refuse 2 start their harvest w/a small SEED.  it is one of the reasons they will never receive everything God wants 2 send 2 them.  "Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase" (Job 8:7).
     What u have will create anything else u want...if u sow it.
     Let's pray:
     "Father, show me the SEEDS  You have already given  me.  I make a decision 2 sow any SEED You desire regardless of how small it now appears.  You will multiply it back when I need it the most today.  In Jesus name.  Amen." 

21 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========   REASON #21- MILLIONS REFUSE 2 OBEY THE VERY BASIC AND SIMPLE LAWS OF GOD.

     Disobedience produces losses.
     The Scriptures warn.  "If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land; but if ye refuse and rebel ye shall be devoured w/the sword:  4 the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it" (Isaiah 1:19-20).
     U can argue about it.
     U can rebel against it.
     U can complain about it.  But, u cannot read the Scriptures w/o understanding clearly that obedience produces the river of Blessing while  disobedience brings famine and desolation.
     "Oh, I know some wealthy people who do not serve God at all.  They do not attend church, and they do not read the Scriptures.  So, why are they prospering?"  Good question.  And, quite easy 2 answer, too.
     They are probably obeying the basic principles of prosperity established in Scripture.
     Let's look at some of these principles and laws that are established quite clearly in Scripture.  God said,  "And it shall come 2 pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the Voice of the LORD thy God,  observe and 2 do all His commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of he Earth: and all these Blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the Voice of the LORD thy God" (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).
     
     1.  The Principle of Work.  God only promised 2 bless the work of your hands.  "The LORD shall open unto thee His good treasure, the Heaven 2 give the rain unto thy land in his Season, and  bless all the work of thine hand" (Deuteronomy 28:12).  It is not an option.  It is not merely a good 'idea' 2 work every day.  The Apostle Paul wrote that those who refuse 2b productive should be denied food.  "For even when we were w/u, this we commanded u, that if any would not work, neither should he eat" (II Thessalonians 3:10).
     Those who refuse 2 work are called disorderly and busybodies in other people's business.  "For we hear that there are some which walk among u disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies" (II Thessalonians 3:11). 
     U must withdraw and withhold any friendship and time of fellowship w/those rebellious toward working.  "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company w/him, that he may be ashamed" (II Thessalonians 3:14).  Note that man.  In other words, draw attention 2 that man.  Everyone should mark the lazy person.
     "But, I lost my good job.  I am waiting 4 one better 2 come along," one girl complained.
     The  principle of work simply reveals the need 2b productive.  Joseph was productive.  He was not in the perfect place, the prison, when he received his promotion.  But, he produced and solved problems wherever God placed him.  As I told a young man working 4 me one day,  "Son, u may not enjoy what u are doing here in this ministry right now.  But, if u do not become productive and complete the instructions I am already giving u, the next Season will not be a step up.   God will make u run the same lap over and over and over again until u learn this principle."

     2.   The Principle of Diligence.  Diligence means speedy attention  an assigned task.  "He becometh poor that dealeth w/a slack hand:  but the hand of the diligent maketh rich (Proverbs 10:4).  Laziness is one of the many reasons people do not experience financial harvest.  "He that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame" (Proverbs 10:5b).
     Diligent people become supervisors and leaders.  "The hand of the diligent shall bear rule"  (Proverbs 12:24).
    The diligent will always have plenty.  "The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat" (Proverbs 13:4).
     Those who are diligent become creative in discovering new ways 2 solve problems.  "The thoughts of the diligent tend only 2 plenteousness..." (Proverbs 21:5).
     Leaders pursue the company and presence of diligent workers.  "Seest thou a man diligent in his business?  He shall stand b4 kings" (Proverbs 22:29).
     The diligent continuously evaluate the results of their efforts.  "Be thou diligent 2 know the state of thy flocks, and look well 2 thy herds" (Proverbs 27:23).
     Find the problem closest 2 u and solve it. [Like helping a friend]  Ask others how 2 bear the burdens they are presently bearing.  Listen carefully 2 things that bring strife 2 your boss.  Solve them.


     >  Review your master list of tasks and complete them one by one every single day.
     >  Labor 4 completions instead of allowing a project 2 run on and on. Procrastination is a killer of TIME.
     >  Pursue correction from the one who signs your paycheck.
     >  Accept rebuke w/thankfullness instead of retaliation and resentment.
     >  Flourish where u are presently working and the news will travel.


     3.  The Principle of Wisdom.  When  u  increase wisdom, u will increase your wealth.  "Counsel is MINE, and sound Wisdom.. riches and honour are w/ME; yea, durable riches and righteousness.. that I may cause those that love Me 2 Inherit substance;  and I will fill their treasurres" (Proverbs 8:14-21).
     U must become good at what u do.
     Study, attend seminars and be mentored.  "Wise men lay up Knowledge" (Proverbs 10:14).
     Rich people are usually knowledgeable people.  "Happy is the man that findeth Wisdom.. length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour" (Proverbs 3:13,16).  They may not know everything about everything.. but they are skilled and develop in at least one topic of thir chosen pursuit.  U must find the Gifts and Skills already planted within u.
    Here is the SECRET:  What u LOVE is a clue 2 the Wisdom u contain.  If u love computers, that is a clue that u will have special wisdom in that area.  If u have a love 4 children, u will have wisdom toward children.


     >  When u find what u love, u will find your wisdom.
     >  When u find your wisdom, u will be paid 2 solve problems with it.


     4.  The Principle of Waiting.  Nobody wants 2 wait 4 anything.  Sam Walton, the late billionaire, once said that he never invested in a company 4  where it would be within 18 months.  He examined carefully 2C where the company would arrive within 10 years or longer.  Some Japanese businessmen have 100-year goals.  A friend of mine once told me that if my father had put $100 a month in a special money market account, I would have been a multimillionaire on my 20th birthday.
     "Then , why isn't everyone a millionaire if $100 a month put aside for 20 years could create such wealth?" I asked.  "Nobody wants 2 wait 20 years 2 spend their $100, " was his reply.
     What is the proof that people will not wait?  When they receive a raise on their job, they immediately make a purchase 2 obligate that raise.  Instead of living within the boundaries of their lower budget and placing the money in a special investment, they make a purchase that produces a pleasure instead of a future.


     5.  The Principle of Mentorship.  U must be teachable.  U must have a mentor.  Your mentor must be someone qualified 2 impart Knowledge 4 your life in the arena of Finances.  U can have a spiritual mentor who is marvelous in prayer and yet unlearned in Finances.  U can have someone who wants 2 teach  u their opinions, but who does not have any Financial success 2 substantiate and support their teaching.
     Who are u pursuing?  What are the last 3 Financial questions u have asked?  To whom did u ask these questions?  What have u done about their answers?  What investment opportunities are u ignoring?  Pursuing?  Considering?
     Recently, I felt impressed 2 get involve in a small financial opportunity.  It would require hardly any time.  But, I had faith in the head of the company.  I shared it w/several close 2 me.  I even offered  help make the investment.  Some embraced it immediately.  Why?  They trusted their instincts, my judgment, and the plan presented.  Others never even showed up 4 the 2nd meeting.  Yet, they will complain in the coming years of their life how their financial life has been stressful, difficult and almost intolerable.  But, they totally refused my mentorship regarding their finances.
     "But, I have asked everyone 2 help me learn how  handle my finances," wailed one young lady.  "What do u want them 2 teach u?" I asked.  So, I took 2 or 3 hours and carefully walked her thru her checkbook.  I emphasized the importance of maintaining balance awareness.. knowing at all times how much money is in your account.  I emphasized 2 her the importance of keeping a small amount of cash w/her at all times.  She did neither.  If u refuse 2 follow the 1st two instructions of a mentor, do u qualify 4 a repeat visit?
     "How many have been 2 a  certified financial planner within the last 3 years?" I asked a large audience one day.  Three hands went up.


     >  Everyone wants a miracle instead of mentorship.
     >  Quality mentorship is often the biggest miracle u need.


     Nobody can force u  pursue Knowledge.  Usually, it takes a tragedy  produce a desire 4 mentorship.


     6.  The Principle of Integrity.  Integrity is simply doing what u say u will do 4 someone.  Integrity is being what u tell everybody u are.  Integrity is truthfulness.
     "If u will give me $40, I will process these 4 pieces of excess baggage thru the airlines," said a skycap 2 me one day when I was at the airport.  The excess was going  cost me over $200.  He wanted a generous tip 2 do it.  I always tip generously, but God had been dealing w/me strongly about integrity, honestly, and doing everything the right way.  U C, if nobody on earth is watching, the Boss of the Universe is always still watching.. "For the eyes of the LORD run 2 and fro thru-out the whole earth,  show Himself strong in behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him" (II Chronicles 16:9).
     "Why don't we just do the right thing?" I counted.   "Sir, it will cost u over $200," he was exasperated w/me.  "I know.  But, I would rather pay the excess now and feel my conscious at peace than 2 simply give u a large tip and save the excess baggage fee."
     Thousands pad their expense account every week.  Some add tips on their expense report that really did not exist or take place.  Many will take extra time off 4 lunch and have someone use the punch-out clock 4 them.  Many employees have taken pencils, pens, legal pads, notebooks and other supplies home 2 their children and family.
     God sees it all.  The Principle of Integrity will stand when every excuse falls apart.
     Quality is a part of integrity.  Show me any person who does poor work, and I will show u a person w/o integrity.  If u do a sloppy job of painting the house 4 somebody, put a used part in an automobile engine and charge 4 a new one u will eventually lose your business.  Customers talk.  Truth emerges.  Integrity will stand the test of time, criticism and even mistakes.
     Those  who will lie will steal also.
     U C, lying is simply theft of the truth.  Truth is so important.  It is the only ingredient that enables us  make quality decisions.  So, if someone withholds from u important truths, they have stolen from u the only ingredient u can have 2 make a good decision.  If someone lies 2 u, lock your cabinets, your doors and keep them away from your life.  Even if they are relatives.  The laws of God are too important 2 ignore.
     Thousands will never walk the path 2 plenty bcoz they have totally disregarded the integrity and infallibility of the Holy Scriptures and the Basic Principles of Prosperity.

20 of 31 Reasons People Do Not ReceiveTheir Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    REASON #20-  SOME REFUSE 2 WAIT LONG ENOUGH 4 THEIR HARVEST.

     TIME is the hidden and mysterious  INGREDIENT in an uncommon harvest.
     U C, PATIENCES is a SEED too.  "The LORD is good unto them that wait 4 Him, 2 the soul that seeketh Him" (Lamentations 3:25).
     Your waiting reveals TRUST.  "It is good that man should both hope and quietly wait 4 the salvation of the LORD" (Lamentations 3:26).
     Your waiting may be painful.  But, it is the SEASON between Sowing and Reaping.  That is why the Bible calls it ... Seedtime, andddddddddd [the waiting time] harvest.  TIME is the seasons between the SEED and the Harvest.  "Weeping may endure 4 a night, but Joy cometh in the morning" (Psalm 30:5).
     Some of u have lost your harvest bcoz of the pain of waiting.  Waiting is burdensome.  It breeds agitation, a critical spirit and can leave u frustrated.
     [Here is how harvest is lost]... While waiting, Words of Doubt and Unbelief are spoken.  This often 'aborts' the cycle of blessing.   Unthankfulness brings a curse not a reward.  Ingratitude does not inspire God 2 hasten the harvest.
      It stops the harvest.
     U must be willing 2 Trust God thru the Seasons of waiting.   He has promised a change.
     Your anger does not intimidate God.
     Your schedule does not obligate God.
     He is God.  He will decide when u deserve and qualify 4 the harvest.  "For My Thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My Ways, saith the LORD.  For as the Heavens are higher than the Earth, so are My Ways Higher than your ways, and My Thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9).
     He has already promised your harvest in due season.  "For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from Heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the Earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud that it may give SEED 2 the Sower, and Bread 2 the Eater: so shall My Word be that goeth forth out of MY Mouth:  it shall not return unto ME void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the Thing whereto I sent it" (Isaiah 55:10-11). 
     Get excited about your harvest.  "For ye shall go out w/Joy, and be led forth w/Peace:  the mountains and the hills shall break forth b4 u into singing,  and all the Trees of the field shall clap their hands" (Isaiah 55:12).
      God will replace  EVERY financial disaster w/a financial miracle.  "Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree:  and it shall be 2 the LORD 4 a name,  4 an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off" (Isaiah 55:13).
     U must refuse 2 permit words of discouragement in your MOUTH.  "Fear thou not;  4 I AM w/thee:  be not dismayed;  4 I AM thy God:  I will strengthen thee; yea,  I will help thee;  yea, I will uphold thee w/the right hand of MY Righteousness" (Isaiah 41:10).
      Those who oppose and battle against your progress, will be confronted by God Himself.  "Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded:  they shall be as nothing; and they that strive w/thee shall perish" (Isaiah 41:11).
     Your enemies shall not succeed against u.  "Thou shalt seek them, and shall not find them, even them that contendeth w/thee:  they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.  For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee,  Fear not:  I will help thee" (Isaiah 41:12-13).
     The Holy Spirit is involved against your enemy.  "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him" (Isaiah 59:19).
     Every scheme, strategy and trap against u shall ultimately fail if u will be PATIENT IN WAITING.  "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper: AND every TONGUE that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn.  This is the Heritage of the Servants of the LORD, and their Righteousness is of ME, saith the LORD" (Isaiah 54:17).
     Keep your eyes upon the REWARDS that will follow your Waiting.  Men fight 4 a reason-- 2 gain something they want.  When David faced Goliath, he was fully aware of the benefits offered 2 the person who could defeat Goliath.  He would have the hand of the king's daughter.  He would not have 2 pay taxes.  So, armed w/the inner picture of his success and its rewards, he ran 2 Goliath 2 conquer him.
     Jesus went 2 Calvary, fully aware of the Resurrection--  "for the Joy that was set b4 Him".
     Keep Focused.  The spoils of war are worth the battle and the tormenting SEASON called WAITING.
       Refuse 2 sin w/your Mouth.  Your enemy reacts w your words.  If u feed on Mr DOUBT and MISS UNBELIEF, it will energize and motivate him 2 rise up against u.
      NEVER speak words that encourage your enemy.  Your enemy will believe anything u are telling him.  If u feed FAITH words into his ear, he will be demoralized, disappointed and discouraged.  If u talk like a 'victim',  he will be encouraged 2 attack u again and again and again.  "DEATH and LIFE are in the Power of the TONGUE: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof" (Proverbs 18:21).
     Your 'WORDS' of Faith will always influence the heart of God.  "For by 'thy words' thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned" (Matthew 12:37).
     While u are waiting create a climate of Gratitude and Thanksgiving.  "In everything give Thanks:  4 this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning u" (I Thessalonians 5:18).
     Continuously pray in the Spirit thru-out the day.  "Pray without ceasing"  (I Thessalonians 5:17).  "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost [Spirit]" (Jude 20). 
     Avoid the temptation 2 create a backup plan.  "Neither give place 2 the devil" (Ephesians 4:27).
     When one of the great explorers came 2 America, he burned the ships behind him and his soldiers.  It made escape impossible.  It made exploration a necessity and requirement.  His men could not go back.  U cannot plan your success and failure at the same time.  Your success will require your total FOCUS and attention.
     Make no plans 2 go backwards.
     Fuel, energize and strengthen the picture of your Future.  This develops your faith.  Discuss w/ everyone the miracle that is en route 2 u.  Work on your expectation.   Obedience is always rewarded.  Everything God has promised u will come 2 pass.  "All these blessings shall come on thee, and over take thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the Voice of the LORD thy God" (Deuteronomy 28:2).  Your life lived holy produces results.  "No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly" (Psalms 84:11).
     U are not fighting your battle alone.  "I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries" (Exodus 23:22).
     Refuse 2 give anyone access 2 yourself who is not in agreement w/the Word of God.  When satan wants 2 destroy u, he sends A PERSON into your life.  "Be not deceived:  evil communications corrupt good manners" (I Corinthians 15:33).
     Avoid broken FOCUS.  When the wrong people talk 2 u, u make the wrong decisions.
     When u make a mistake, consider yourself that much closer 2 your harvest.  "The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down" (Psalms 145:14).  Do not be 2 hard on yourself.  The rewards of change are coming.  PATIENCE works.  Overcoming involves more than one battle.  It is the man who refuses 2 quit that wins.  Always.
     Never consider quitting.  Never.  Get up and try again.  And again.  And, again.  Hell fears a fighter.  "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation:  4 when he is tried, he shall receive the crown, which the Lord hath promised them 2 that love Him" (James 1:12).
     My greatest blessings have come after my longest waiting.
     Several years ago, I was preaching 4 Rod Parsley, a friend of mine, in Columbus, Ohio.  At the end of the service, the Holy Spirit spoke 2 me 2 receive an offering 4 the pastor instead of my own ministry.  Well, I desperately needed a miracle.  I needed finances badly 4 a special project  I was facing.  So, any SEED I planted would  be a Crisis SEED.  (Remember that a Crisis SEED increases in its influence w/God.)  It is possible that a small SEED sown during a crisis produces a greater harvest than a generous SEED during good times.
     So, I agreed 2 give the offering in its entirety 2 the pastor.  Then, the Holy Spirit  made an unusual suggestion.  I really did not feel that it was a command but rather an 'invitation' 2 an investment.  I had just received a royalty check for $8,500.  (Actually, it was everything that I had 2 my name.)  I do not recall any money in my savings account other than this check I had in my briefcase.
    "How would u like 2 explore and experiment what I could do  w/your $8,500?" the Holy Spirit spoke.
     It brought a moment of torment and torture.  Then, I just quietly spoke in my spirit back 2 Him, "That is alright.  I really appreciate this wonderful $8,500!  It is enough harvest 4 me."
     He spoke the second time.  Oh, how thankful I am for the 2nd chances He gives 2 us 2 try again, reach again, and plant again.
     "How would u like 2 explore and experiment w/what I could do w/your $8,500?"
     Something in me took a careful evaluation.  What could I really do with $8,500?  It certainly was not enough 2 pay my house off.  What could I do?  Buy a small car, or put a down payment on a rent house, or fly 2 Europe and vacation 4 a month?  I decided 2 believe His Word.
     That decision changed my lifetime income 4ever.
     Six weeks later, God gave me an IDEA that brought me hundreds of thousands of dollars in return.  In fact, every 90 days I receive a royalty check 4 that idea.
     Now, here is the powerful principle about waiting that u must grasp.
     It was over 2 years after I sowed the $8,500 that I received my first nickel of profit from that idea.  I went thru several battles and difficulties.  I thought the idea would never get off the ground.  But, it did.  My willingness 2 wait thru EIGHT SEASONS of harvest was worth every single HOUR of WAITING.
     Some want 2 plant on Sunday morning in church and reap Monday morning on their job.  That is not even logical, Scriptural, or promised by God.  "But he that endureth 2 the end shall be saved"  (Matthew 10:22).
     Keep feeding your faith during the painful Season of Waiting.  "So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17).
     Your SEASONS of WAITNG are not seasons of inactivity.  Much is going on.  Angels are positioning 2 minister.  Demons are being confronted.  Strategies are being developed.  God is moving people into your life just like a Boaz was moved into the life of Ruth.  Never believe that a season of waiting is a season of doing nothing.  The opposite is true.
     Seasons of waiting are the busiest seasons ever in the Spirit world.
     Remind yourself that Joy still flows in the heat of battle.  "And u became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, w/Joy of the Holy Ghost" (I Thessalonians 1:6).
     Do not permit your Ship of Financial Harvest 2b dashed on the Rock of Impatience.  Thousands have not received their financial harvest bcoz they got in a hurry, unwilling 2 trust the Lord of the Harvest 4 His timing.  "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up w/wings as eagles;  they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31). 
     Let's pray:
     "Father, You do all things well.  You understand the SEASONS.  Give me the ability 2 wait.  Your timing is perfect.  Your schedule is better than mine.  I will Trust You, wait on You, and You will reward me abundantly.  In Jesus Name. Amen"

19 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    REASON #19- MANY REFUSE 2 SOW DURING TIMES OF CRISIS

     Crisis creates fear.
     It happened 2 me several years ago.  Through a parade of tragedies, personal and in my ministry, I suddenly faced bankruptcy.  I owed many times more than what I owned.  I did not know what 2 do.  I prayed, fasted, and used every business principle I knew.  The wall refused 2 budge.  It was like a mountain of debt that nothing could shake.
     I became intimidated.  I felt like a failure.  Other ministers were flourishing and were building huge buildings.  I could not even pay my CPA $1,500 2 get a financial statement 2 present 2 the bank for a loan!  I met w/a successful businessmen who offered 2 loan me $250,000 ... if I would pay them $50,000 immediately.  (I did not have $5,000 cash 2 my name!)
     During those times, satan really appeared overpowering.  Sometimes it is hard 2 truly believe that your pain will ever pass.
     I could not think straight.  I would sit numbly in various meetings around the table of negotiation. My mind was in shock.  My heart lost its fight.  I could not budge the wall of debt.  (Sometimes, during the battle of life, u will be tempted 2 withdraw, become timid and passive.)  U C, satan is a bully.  Bullies delight in shy, timid peace makers.
     It is important that u develop a fighting spirit.  Very important.  "Resist the devil, and he will flee from u" (James 4:7b).
     U must run toward your Goliath.  David did.  But, he did not come in his own strength against his enemy.  He came "in the Name of the LORD."
     Crisis is the place of miracles.  It is not the place 2 shrink back, quit and hoard your sowing.  I was so tempted 2 stop giving.  I felt that the ministry needed 2 'keep the tithe 4 itself."  Crisis distorts every picture of prosperity.
     Why is crisis time an important Season 2 sow?
     (1)  Your sowing will birth expectation and hope.
     (2)  Expectation is the only 'magnet' that attracts the miracle provision God promised.  "Without faith, it is impossible 2 please Him:  4 he that cometh 2 God must believe that He is, and that He is a Rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).
     (3)  If u refuse 2 sow, u have just destroyed your own ability 2 expect a miracle.  A farmer can only expect a harvest after he has planted SEED.


      >  So, your sowing is what births your expectation.
     >  Your expectation is the current that brings the one 100-fold return Jesus promised.


     (4)  Nothing is going 2 change 4 u financially UNTIL u can unleash expectation within u.
     (5)  Your crisis actually magnifies the size of your SEED in the eyes of God.  Your SEED will increase in its influence w/God... bcoz of your crisis situation.  Jesus was watching the offering one day.  He "beheld how the people cast money into the treasury:  and many that were rich cast in much.  And there came a certain poor widow, she threw in 2 mites, which make a farthing."
     This contained a powerful insight.  He shared w/His disciples.  "This poor widow  hath cast more in than all they which hath cast into the treasury:  For all they did cast in of their abundance;  but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living" (Mark 12:41-44).  She did not have very much money.  She was poor.  But, her financial crisis enlarged her SEED in the eyes of God.  She gave more than everyone else, in His opinion, bcoz of her crisis.
     That is why it is important 2 plant SEED when your back is against the wall, and u have very little.  Your SEED will carry more weight, influence and potential 4 increase than a much larger SEED will have later when u are doing quite well.
     Thousands hoard during crisis.
     It is the most unwise thing they could ever do.
     If u will sow during times of famine, your SEED will move the Heavens and open the windows.  God will pour out a blessing u can hardly contain.

18 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    ~ Leviticus 27:30 ~  "And all the Tithe of the land, whether of the SEED of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S:  it is holy unto the LORD."

REASON #18 - MILLIONS STEAL THE TITHE, THE HOLY PORTION GOD  RESERVED 4 HIMSELF.

     When u keep the Tithe, u commit theft.
     When u  take something that belongs 2 another, u are a thief.  Thieves will not enter Heaven.  "But lay up 4 yourselves treasure(s) in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:" (Matthew 6:20).
     Tithe  means "Tenth."  The great patriarch, and wonderful example, Abraham, gave 10 percent of is income back as proof and evidence that he honored God as his Provider and was blessed incredibly 4 it.  "And Abraham was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold" (Genesis    
raceytay                                                                     13:2).
     Isaac, his son, continued 2 reap from the life of obedience.  "Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year a 100-fold: and the LORD blessed him.  And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great:  For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants and: and the Philistines envied him" (Genesis 26:12-14).
     It happened 4 the children of Abraham.  "And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said, I AM the God of Abraham thy father:   fear not ,  4 I AM w/thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy SEED 4 my servant Abraham's sake" (Genesis 26:24).
     The Tithe is holy unto the Lord.  "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S:  it is holy unto the LORD" (Leviticus 27:30).
     Your Tithe is the golden gate 2 Financial Supply.  "Bring ye all the tithe(s) into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine House, and Prove ME now herewith, saith the LORD of Hosts, if I  will not open u the Windows of Heaven and pour u out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough 2 receive it" (Malachi 3:10).
     The arrogant will not tithe.  U C, there are THREE kinds of atheists: (1) those who believe that God does not even exist;  (2) those who believe they are capable of doing anything God could do; and (3) those who consider themselves as god in their own life.  A non-tither's position is like the atheist--they keep the tithe.  They feel that they are their own god in their own life.  It is the ultimate proof of arrogance and pride.
     Honor the Tithe.  Tithing is the Biblical practice of returning 10 percent of your income back 2 God after u have earned it.  In the Old Testament, Abraham and others tithed.  In the New Testament, even the Pharisees, the hypocitical religious crowd, remembered 2 tithe.  "This ought 2 have done..."

     "And concerning  the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the 10th shall be holy unto the LORD" (Leviticus 27:32).

     Tithing can break the financial curse on your life and family.  U C, those who rob God of the tithe AND offerings that belong 2 Him are living under a curse.

     Oh, my friend, u can change this.  U can be the member of your family that 'breaks the curse."  Your SEED is the Proof of your faith.  It is the proof that u have conquered greed.  Obviously, God always penalized a thief.  But, He always promotes and prospers the tither and those who sow SEED.  "Will a man rob God?  Yet ye have robbed ME.  But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee?  In tithes AND offerings.  Ye are cursed w/a curse:  4 ye have robbed ME, even this whole nation" (Malachi 3:8).

     Tithe consistently.  Each tithe is an act of faith, a SEED of obedience that creates momentum.  When u tithe consistently, u will create a consistent harvest.  Establish a rhythm.  Stay in obedience long enough 2 taste the rewards of momentum.

     There are 4 basic Seasons each year.  Regularity and routine are very important forces in our lives, especially in a SEED-faith lifestyle.  Work w/the Law of Sowing and Reaping [even the World says: What goes around, comes around or what u sow, u will reap].  Do not become erratic and unpredictable.  Nature itself has a PATTERN, a rhythm and routine.  When u honor it, the benefits will far outweigh any cost and risk involved.  "While the Earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest , and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease" (Genesis 8;22).

     Tithing is the proof u have conquered greed.  Satan steals.  man hoards.  God GIVES.  Your giving is the only proof that God lives within u.  It is the only evidence that the nature of God is flourishing inside your heart.  Whether it is money, mercy or love, giving is the only real evidence of Love.  "For God so Loved the World that He GAVE..." (John 3:16).

     When u tithe, u create a memory in the mind of God 4ever.  He beholds His nature in u.

     "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (II Timothy 1:7).  Fear torments.  It makes u hoard instead of release.  U become afraid that u can never replace the money that u are "giving 2 God."  The truth?  The tithe is already His.  He permits u the privilege of returning it 2 Him as proof of your confidence in Him.

     Tithing is the proof that u believe the Word of God 2 u.  The Word of God is a collection of INSTRUCTIONS.  God wants so much 2b believed.  He promised that those who would tithe and bring offerings 2 Him would C a financial harvest as a result.  "But he shall receive a 100-fold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world 2 come Eternal Life" (Mark 10:30).

     The Old Testament confirms it.  "Honour the LORD w/thy substance, and w/the firstfruits of all thine increase:  So shall thy barns be filled w/plenty, and thy presses shall burst out w/new wine" (Proverbs 3:9-10).

     When u write out a check 4 10 percent of your income each week and give it back 2 God, it documents your faith 2 God.  It is proof of your confidence.  U really do believe that His Word works.  U have fully embraced the wonderful truth that "God is not a man, that He should lie; neither a son of man, that he should repent: hath He said, and shall He not do it ?  or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good?" (Numbers 23:19).

     Yet, millions attend church every Sunday and walk out w/the holy tithe still in their pockets.  Sometimes, they will drop a few dollars in its place in the offering as a substitution.

     Picture something w/me 4 a few moments.  Suppose a businessman flew home from a business transaction.  His son meets him at the airport.  The father excited, puts his arm around his son and says, "I really love u son.  I'm so proud of u.  Here is a $10 bill 2 buy yourself a little present.  I just made $100 extra that I had not planned on in this business deal."
     "Thanks, dad!"

     "Well, son, go ahead and take several more of these $10 bills. Actually, u can have 9 of these $10 bills  4 yourself.  I will just keep one w/me 4 some change,"  the father remarks, good naturedly.

     Think further w/me.  Both go home.  The son goes into his bedroom  sleep that night.  The father takes everything out of his pockets, leaving the tenth $10 bill inside the dresser drawer.  He goes  sleep.

     during the night, the son cannot sleep.  He turns and tosses.  He is thankful for the nine $10 bills ($90) that his father gave him.  But, something inside him that he cannot explain makes him keep thinking about that $10 bill in his father's dresser drawer.  What if the son sneaked up in the middle of the night, opened the dresser drawer and took and stole the tenth $10 bill?  What are your feelings about that?  I imagine u would be incensed and infuriated.  U would exclaim w/anger, "That son is an idiot, a fool and a thief.  he was so unthankful 4 the $90 that his father gave him, he stole the tenth."

    Yet... this happens every single Sunday on Earth.  Somehow, our ingratitude and unthankfulness begins 2 choke out every word of praise that should be flowing from our lips.  Instead of gratitude and thankfulness 4 our health, our energy, favor, and friendships--the last $10 bill is stolen.. from the hand of the very ONE who gave the other $90 to us.

     Another scenario.  Just suppose that I told u that the son left a $1 bill in its place in his father's drawer--thinking his father would not notice the difference between a $1 bill and the $10 bill.  Maybe, he feels that his father would not notice the missing zero!

     This would be a substitution.

     He steals the $10 by replacing it w/a $1 bill.

     Yes, u are angry again.  yet, this too happens in every church in America every single Sunday morning.  Thousands substitute a small offering in place of the tithe.  Do we think God is that stupid?

     I held 6 seminars for 6 consecutive Friday evenings in Austin, Texas.  The young man who shined my shoes in the Austin airport was so impressive.  I loved him, his little wife and child.  One day, he spoke 2 me.  "Mike, I love my pastor.  The music in our church is just fantastic.  However, there is one thing that I despise and makes me so angry every Sunday.  Every time I attend my church, my pastor wants 2 talk about offerings.  It seems 2 me that is all he talks about.. tithe and offerings, tithe and offerings, tithe and offerings."

     "Has anyone ever explained the Tithe 2 u?" I asked.

      He could not remember having anyone explain it 2 him.  So, I proceeded 2 explain that everything we have came from God.

     God established a system that would destroy the possibility of greed, The Tithe.  God is not poor.  Angels are not on ration.  Mansions in Heaven are not half finished.  God said that everything already belonged 2 Him anyway.  But, He established a system that would permit man 2 destroy his greatest enemy of prosperity, greed.  It was simple.  Bring 10 percent back 2 God, and He promised 2 bless u again and again 4 such obedience.

     Then, I explained that God guaranteed a curse on anyone who stole the holy part (Malachi 3:9-11).  The words of Jesus were also explained carefully.  When Peter felt that he had lost everything in order 2 follow after Jesus, Jesus reminded him of a wonderful result... the one 100-fold return Principle (Mark 10:28-30).

     My young shoe shine friend was ecstatic.  He had never understood the Law of the Hundredfold Return.

     It is not a mystery.  It happens everyday everywhere around us.  A farmer once told me about the Law of Return in a kernel or corn.  "Mike, one kernel or corn can produce a cornstalk.  Each cornstalk produces 4 corncobs.  Some have counted as high as 700 kernels of corn on a single corncob, meaning that one kernel of corn can produce 2,800 more kernels of corn on those 4 different corncobs combined.  So, a 100-fold return is not at all a miracle.  It is normal fact of the life in the Law of Return."

     The young man agreed 2 do something I asked.  "I want u 2 tithe every Sunday morning at your church."   The Bible says, "Upon the first day of the week let every one lay by him in store, as God has prospered him" (I Corinthians 16:2).

     I continued.  "Tithe habitually, w/o interruption, for 4 Seasons, the next 12 months.  U C, if u have been sowing SEED of Nothing, u have already scheduled 'Seasons of Nothing' in your Future.  A SEED reproduces itself.  So, if u have been bringing nothing 2 God, u have been scheduling Seasons-of-Nothing in your Future.  Give God a chance 2 cycle u thru the Seasons of Nothing until u can begin 2 C a harvest in your life,"  I explained.  He agreed.

   God did it quicker than I ever imagined.  In less than 30 days, he stood in a small prayer breakfast I held at the Hilton Hotel in Austin, Texas, shouting, "It works!"

     His tip money 4 the first seven days after his commitment 2 tithe was over $800.  He had never experienced this kind of income in his life.  Today, someone told me he had started a small chain of shoe shine places, and people are working 4 him!

     Millions will never taste the financial harvest that is within their reach bcoz they have stolen the holy Tithe and kept it 4 themselves.  The ultimate act of arrogance.

17 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========        REASON #17 - MANY DO NOT PURSUE A HARVEST, BCOZ THEY  HAVE  NOT YET TASTED THE PAIN OF POVERTY

     Poverty is a Tormentor.
     Poverty is Wrenching, Tormenting, Devastating and Heartbreaking.
     Poverty is the climate  where the SEEDS of Suicide grow and flourish.  It strips a person of his self-confidence ans sense of worth.  It blurs the visions of his dreams and goals.  FOCUS is broken.
     Poverty is where the Weeds of Anger and Cynicism grow the quickest.  I cannot think of anything good about poverty.
     Yet, many have not learned 2 despise the chains of bankruptcy and poverty.
     Poverty is not a friend w/whom 2 negotiate.
     Poverty is an enemy 2b destroyed.
     Poverty is captivity.  It is slavery.  U must recognize that financial captivity is unnatural.  U must develop a hatred 2 smash the chains that hold u back from financial abundance.

     Isaiah says it so well:     "Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall b4 as white as Snow,  Though they are red like crimson,  They shall be as wool.  If u are Willing And Obedient,  U shall 'EAT' the Good of the Land;  But... IF u refuse and rebel,  U shall be devoured by the sword";  For the MOUTH of the LORD has spoken (Isaiah 1:18-20).  

Note: Until we 'admit' when we have done a wrong, the 'eating' of the Good cannot begin, and it is stopped, like a wrong detour going the opposite/wrong way, turn around again and go back 2 the place where u were going right, and the 'eating' will once again resume in your life of goodness.  God loves all His children, and a parents' love is always good 4 the child.


     U may never taste the financial success u deserve until u C the tragedy of loss, bankruptcy and poverty.  I have walked the streets of Calcutta, India, and watched children w/fingers inside of food cans trying 2 find some moist soup or something left in a can so they can survive.  I have watched wagons roll thru the streets of Calcutta picking up the dead bodies of people who died along the sidewalks at night.  Yes, I have watched them burn those bodies and people weeping and crying ... bcoz of poverty.
     Poverty stops us from building more great churches, uncommon television ministries, and radio evangelism.  It stops a missionary from having enough 2 start another 10,000 churches 4 God.
     Poverty is a spirit.  It happens inside u b4 it happens around u.  Men deteriorate inwardly b4 their business deteriorates.
     Jesus knew an enemy existed.  "The thief cometh not, but 4 2 Steal, and 2 Kill, and 2 Destroy:  I am come that they might have LIFE, and that they might have it more Abundantly" (John 10:10).
     Poverty produces fear.  Fear of failure.  Fear that others will not respect us and treat us properly.
     Poverty produces insecurity and suspicion toward every other person around u.
     How do I know that poverty is a "spirit?"  It crushes and destroys the spirit of man that should be alive, vibrant and victorious.  Poverty makes u want 2 quit instead of succeed.
     The spirit of poverty will make u critical of those who are trying 2 set u free from it.
     I will never 4get the service in Houston, Texas, as long as I live.  When I finished teaching, I shared 4 a few moments about 'aiming' your SEED like an arrow.  An anointing came upon me in a powerful and unusual way.  I asked the people 2 prepare a special SEED 2 plant into the work of God.
     Suddenly, like a volcano, a man sitting on the 2nd row jumped 2 his feet yelling.  He rushed 2  the aisle and raced 2 the back of the church shouting.  Just as he reached the front door of the church 2 leave, I called out 2 him 2 stop.  I asked him 2 state clearly what was bothering him.
     He was almost crying w/a mixture of rage, shame and question.  "What do u tell your 13 year old daughter when she asks u for a dollar and u do not even have enough 2 give 2 her?" he shouted.  "I have been out of work 4 two years.  I have no money.  When my teenage daughter asked 4 an offering 2 give a few moments ago, I had nothing!"
     "That is the reason I am teaching these Principles 2 u, my precious brother. "  I explained gently.  My heart went out 2 him.
     Oh, poverty is a Cruel Task Master.
     Poverty will make u doubt every GOOD thing about yourself.
     Poverty will make u question the Truth about God, your True Source and Provider.  It will make u hate every minister who teaches on prosperity.  This is one of the proofs that poverty is a spirit-it reacts teh strongest 2 the person who can cast it out.
     Poverty is not merely a financial circumstance in your life.  Poverty is a spiritual condition of your heart and soul.
     Poverty destroys normality.  U draw unwise and ridiculous conclusions.  U make wrong decisions.  Poverty generally multiplies 2 those who are poor.  It takes an incredible impact and revelation 2 destroy the spirit of poverty in your life.
     Let me explain.  My teaching on the supernatural provision of God should have excited my brother.  He should have leaped on his feet w/joy!  He should have cried out, "Yes!  I despise poverty.  Thank u 4 coming 2 set me free."
     This did not happen.  He was angry.  He was ashamed.  The message was intimidating 2 him.  Why?  The spirit of poverty had its claws so deeply imbedded into him, he needed a supernatural experience w/a divine Deliverer, the Holy Spirit.
     "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;  bcoz the Lord hath anointed me 2 preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent me 2 bind up the brokenhearted, 2 proclaim liberty [freedom] 2 the captives, and the opening of the prison 2 them that are bound" (Isaiah 61:1).
      Jesus is our Deliverer.  "If the Son there4 shall make u free, ye shall b4 free indeed" (John 8:36).
     I looked w/great compassion at my poor broken brother.  "Come back here, my brother."  He did not really want 2 go back 2 his seat, but the anointing was so strong on me, he had 2 obey.
     "My brother, this is the very reason that we are sowing SEED today--2 break the spirit of poverty on the body of Christ and people who have been broken and bruised."
     Normally, I would have carried the offering back 2 our offices in Dallas where it would be deposited in the ministry account.  Then, we would purchase television and radio air time, pay our employees, and purchase books and so forth w/the finances.  But, an unusual anointing covered me like a magnificent mantle.  I announced 2 the entire church a new Instruction.
     "I want 2 sow this entire offering into my brother and his family who have been w/o a job for 2 years.  This SEED will grow 4 every person who plants it.  Bcoz the Bible says, 'He that hath pity upon the poor Lendeth 2 the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again' " (Proverbs 19:17).  The people clapped their hands w/Joy.  The man was embarrassed at first.  I reassured him that this was the leading of the Holy Spirit.  God was using this offering 2 remind him of His deep love and commitment 2 him and his family.
     His poverty had birthed fear.  Fear makes u hoard.  Hoarding is the opposite of giving.  So hoarding cuts off any connection  the Supply.  The death cycle of the poor never seems 2 stop.

     It takes an anointing, an uncommon anointing, 4 a financial blessing.  "And it shall come 2 pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed bcoz of the anointing" (Isaiah 10:27). 

     The anointing on a servant of God can break the back of poverty in a person's life.  Since God is the Provider, the Multiplier and the Source of Supply, He wants His people 2b financially prosperous.  Perhaps, this is one of the reasons He warns us 2 keep our hands off His leaders.  "Saying, touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm"  (Psalms 105:15).
     A businessman wished 2 enter into a small debate over the issue.  I was visiting his home.  He was anti-prosperity, anti-preachers, and anti-everything.
     I interrogated him lightly.  His father had given him his money from his business.  He father owned his home.  He was the son  of a wealthy man.  He had little appreciation 4 the toil, labor and time involved in generating a financial successful life.
     He was a parasite who had never faced poverty as an enemy.  That is why he was not pursuing a harvest.  He was living off of others instead.
     Many years ago, 1000s of hippies thru-out our colleges sneered at money, achievement and productivity.  Where did they find the time and energy 2 criticize?  Their parents were paying their college bills, sending them checks 4 spending money, and making their car payments.  They were not tasting the pain of poverty.
     When u stare woodenly at a stack of bills that is impossible 2 pay, only then will gratitude and thankfulness begin 2 flow in your life 4 the super natural harvest.
     When your children are sick and finances prevent u from purchasing adequate care, u will taste the pain of poverty.
     When u watch movers take the furniture out of your house and load it in a truck 2 go back 2 the store where it was purchased, u will taste the pain of poverty.
     When u are threatened w/a lawsuit, and have not a cent in your account 2 defend yourself, u will understand the pain of poverty.
     When u look thru your dresser drawers 2 find coins 2 buy a loaf of bread bcoz u have been our of work 3 months, u will understand the pain of poverty.
     When u truly understand the sorrow poverty and the tragedy of lack, your faith will begin 2 focus on the Laws of Provision, the Financial Harvest God Guaranteed.
     Thousands have not yet hit the bottom.  Someone keeps cushioning their fall.  A mother slips some money 2 her lazy son.  A father, guilty 4 not spending more time w/his son, buys him a new car.  Consequently, they never really taste t he emptiness of poverty.
     That is one of the reasons some will never walk in a supernatural supply.  Their needs are never really big enough 2 force them 2 pursue a harvest. 
     Let's pray:
     "Father, do not let me have 2 taste the pain of poverty b4 I appreciate Your blessing.  I need Your Anointing 2 break the spirit of poverty in my life.  You are my Deliverer and I celebrate the Promise of Plenty You have made 2 me.  In Jesus sweet Name.  Amen."