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Thursday, September 15, 2011

15 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    ~  Proverbs 11:14  ~  "Where no counsel is, the people fall:  but in the multitude of counselors there is Safety."

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REASON #15 -  MANY ARE UNWILLING 2 PATIENTLY SIT AT THE FEET OF A FINANCIAL MENTOR.

     What u keep hearing u eventually believe.  U must treasure every moment u have access 2 a qualified Mentor.
     What u do not respect will move away from u.
     It may be a miracle, a dog, or money.  But there are currents in life just like there are in air and water.  These currents move u toward your dreams or away from them;  toward success or failure;  toward prosperity or poverty.
     What u respect will move toward u.  It may be people, or money. 
     When God wants 2 bless u, He  puts a person in your life.
     Moses was assigned 2b the Deliverer who led the Israelites out of their bondage in Egypt.  Those who respected his leadership found their bondage broken, and headed toward Canaan, the land of promise.
     Elijah was a Deliverer.  God took him away from the privacy of the brook, and sent him 2 the home of a starving widow.  The town was Zarephath.  Her son was on meal from death.  But, God sent her a man who was not intimidated by her poverty.  This prophet carried the mantle 2 unlock her faith 4 a supernatural financial harvest.
    
  >  If u are spiritually lost, u must begin 2 look 4 the man of God who has focused his life 2 bring the salvation message 2 the unbeliever.
     >  If u are sick, u must look 4 and respect the man of God who carries the mantle and anointing 4 divine healing and health.
     >  If u are facing financial problems and bankruptcy, start looking 4 the man or woman of God who carries the mantle of Financial Breakthrough.

     U C, what u respect  will move toward u.  When u respect and celebrate the financial mantle of those God sends into your life, prosperity will explode like Niagara Falls across your life.  No one fails alone.
    If u fail or experience financial devastation, it could well be bcoz u chose 2 ignore a man of God assigned 2 help u unlock the treasures and unleash your financial faith.
     Your Mentors must be recognized and pursued.
     Jesus reached out 2 help and was ignored.  U can almost feel the tears flowing down His cheeks as He cried, "O Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!  Behold, your house is left unto u desolate" (Matthew 23:37-38).
     Your Mentors can upgrade your financial decisions.  If u can make the decisions that create your poverty, then u can make decision that can create your prosperity.   If u can do something that brings decrease, u can learn 2 do that things that create increase.

     >  U must discern the Financial Mentors closest 2 u.
     > U must learn 2 celebrate the Financial Deliverers God has made accessible 2 .
     
     Reaching is a requirement.
     Reaching out 4 financial wisdom and assistance is not a sign of weakness.  Only a fool ignores a life jacket when he is drowning.  Those who overcome financial devastation never do it alone.  They conquer their pride.  They reject the trap of isolation.  They know the inevitable reward of reaching.  They pursue.  They ask.

     U must turn 2 God first.  Become thankful 4 what He has already given 2 u in your life.
     First, be thankful 4 His previous provision and supernatural supply.
     Express gratitude 4 those who have assisted u in achieving your dream, given u job opportunities, and encouraged u.
     Your Heavenly Father cares about your financial difficulties today.  U really do matter 2 Him.  Jesus said it clearly,  "Your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things." (Matthew 6:32).
      He is expecting your pursuit of Him.  In the Secret Place of prayer.  In the church services that u attend.  In your diligent research of Scripture.  "When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn 2 the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient  unto His Voice; (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) He will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor 4get the covenant of they fathers which He sware unto them" (Deuteronomy 4:30-31).
     Nobody else can do it 4 u.  Nobody else feels your pain.  Nobody else is staring at the stack of bills u are facing every night.
     Pursue worthy and proven counsel.  Somebody knows something u need 2 know.  Someone knows something that can help u survive and even succeed in the middle of the most painful chapter of your life.  Ignorance is 2 costly.  It is deadly.
     Only fools risk the consequences of ignorance.  Your pastor, or boss, or someone u love may have a recommendation of a certified financial planner or others in your area.  Whatever u do today, take the time 2 listen 2 Godly advice.  True champions do.  As the ancient writings teach, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14). 
     God expects u 2 cry out 4 help in times of trouble.  "This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles" (Psalms 34:6). 
     Your humility and desperation will attract God.  Especially your faith.  U must trust God 2 stop the financial attack against u.  U serve a very capable and caring God.  he can turn the hearts of kings in favor toward u.
     U are on His mind this very moment.  Your tears, your pain, and your fears affect Him and influence His responses 2 u.  He is getting ready 2 move in your behalf.  Trust Him.  Regardless of the storms around u, remember the great promise, "He maketh wars 2 cease..." (Psalms 46:9).
     Recognize messengers who carry the message of financial solutions.  They may be packaged like a John the Baptist in a loin cloth of camel's hair, or the silk robes like King Solomon.  Do not permit the packaging 2 distract u from the message.  They may appear arrogant, cocky and self-confident.  Or, they may seem humble, timid and even reluctant 2 share their financial knowledge.  It is your responsibility 2 discern the messengers God sends into your life.  Drop your pail in their well.
     Your response 2 a man of God is carefully documented by God.  When God talks 2 u, it is often thru the spiritual leaders in your life.  Do not ignore them.  Remember-- "He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward" (Matthew 10:41).
     Recognize extraordinary and uncommon Mentors of Faith.  U C, your faith determines the flow of miracles toward u.  "But w/o faith, it is impossible 2 please Him" (Hebrews 11:6b).   "He that cometh unto God must believe that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6a). 
     Moses mentored Joshua.
     Paul mentored Timothy.
     Elijah mentored Elisha.
     Naomi mentored Ruth.
     Mordecai mentored Esther.
     Uncommon champions have uncommon mentors.  Observe carefully the lives of those who have succeeded around u.  Their secrets will begin 2 surface.  Their reason 4 unusual success will become quite clear.  Study the biographies of financial champions.  Extraordinary people have tapped into the fountain of their faith.  As u read their journey from the pit 2 the palace, u will be encouraged and strengthened.  "Where4 seeing we also are compassed about w/so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run w/patience the race that is set b4 us" (Hebrews 12:1).  
     Constantly eat faith food.  What u read will affect what u believe.  What u read influences the conversations u enter.  When u feed the Word of God into your spirit man, your faith (confidence in God) comes alive and becomes a living force within u.
     Set aside a specific time every day 2 read 3 chapters in the Bible.  Nurture and grow the explosive SEEDS of Faith within u. Invest in yourself!  Acorns can become oak trees.  "So then Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). 
     Choose a proven mentor.  Those u admire will eternally affect your Future.  Choose financial mentors who increase your faith in the true Source, God.  Learn from their scars as well as their sermons.  "And we beseech u, brethren, 2 know them which labour among u, and are over u in the Lord, and admonish u;  And 2 esteem them very highly in love 4 their work's sake" (I Thessalonians 5:12-13).   
     Financial Mentors are different than Financial Deliverers.  Mentors impart expertise.  Deliverers create experiences.  U need both.
     Your mentor takes u on a continuous journey from where u are 2 the place u can be.  This involves a collection of Instructions, a series of crises and constant review of your financial situation.
     A Financial deliverer carries a mantle and an anointing that breaks the spirit of poverty over your life and unlocks a financial faith never experienced b4.

     > Somebody gave u Instructions that created your Present circumstances.
     > Somebody must give u different Instructions 2 create the circumstances that u desire.  "Poverty and shame comes 2 him that refuseth Instruction" (Proverbs 18:13).
     
     Many rebel against any correction or advice given 2 them.  This is the reason they never taste the incredible harvest God wants them 2 have. 
     Several years ago, I had a close friend I loved and admired very much.  Something agitated him and he quit attending a special weekly Bible study that I held.  His house was just minutes away.  A few months later, he began 2 experience tremendous financial losses.  One day, I met his wife in a store.
     "You have got 2 pray 4 my husband.  He is almost bankrupt."  Her face looked so pulled and stressed.  "Well, he ought 2b in bad shape,"  I said half jesting but really serious.  "He as refused 2 drive 10 minutes 2 sit under a financial mantle of a financial deliverer where God is pouring out financial blessing.  He has ignored and disregarded the access he has had 2 this anointing."
     Sometimes that which becomes familiar becomes hidden  us.  Someone I love was very concerned about a close relative.  "Unless there is a miracle, they are going 2 go bankrupt."  "You know,"  I replied, "every Thursday night I teach from the Word of God on the Laws of Financial Supply.  They could sit under this mantle within minutes if they would make the drive.  They have refused 2 sit under this anointing."  Their financial crises was not a mystery 2 me at all.
     What u ignore will move away from u.  
     I have relatives who can hardly earn their own living .  They  constantly borrow from other relatives.  Some would call them parasites, bcoz they cannot earn their own way.  yet, they refuse 2 sit for 3 days in a conference that would connect them 2 the golden flow of supply and the uncommon walk of faith.
     No, it is not a shock and surprise 2 me that many people never experience harvest.  Some will sit an hour in a car on the freeway during a traffic jam every single day of their life, but become angry if their pastor discusses financial harvest during the offering 4 more than 15 minutes.
     Think about this.  Every week contains 168 hours, or 672 compartments of 15 minutes.  If u only sit and receive faith teaching on a capsule of 15 minutes out of the 672, is it any wonder why your faith is not alive and vibrant?
     "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels" (Proverbs 1:5).
     U must start moving toward extraordinary people.  Make a habit of pursuing greatness.  Pay any price.  Purchase any book or tape series that contains the path 2 the uncommon supply.
     Elisha received a double portion of God's power bcoz he was willing 2 pay the cost 2 stay in the presence of Elijah, the great prophet.  Joshua observed Moses.  Ruth reached 4 Boaz.
     You will never possess what u are unwilling 2 pursue.   You  really have no right 4 anything u have reached toward.  "He that walketh w/wise men shall be wise, but a companion of fools shall be destroyed" (Proverbs 13:20).
     I was in South Carolina giving my testimony about the SEED of $58, the Covenant of Blessing.  This is what I shared;  I was in Washington, DC, sitting on the platform.  The pastor was receiving the tithe and offerings from his people.  Suddenly, the Holy Spirit spoke 2 me and impressed me 2 plant a SEED of $58 2 represent each of the 58 Kinds of Blessing in the Bible.  It sounded so crazy 2 me, but I knew the Voice of the Holy Spirit.  So,  I pulled out my checkbook and wrote a check for $58.  Then, I felt impressed 2 plant one 4 my son who was 12 at the time.  My divorce had been bitter.  It was difficult 2 get any time of visitation, and so forth.
     Within a few weeks after my SEED, his mother decided he could come spend the rest of his life w/me!  The miracle flow started.  After I shared this in South Carolina.  It was interesting the paths that 2 different people in that service took.
     One man called the pastor very upset.  He insisted that I was a fraud, trying 2 con people out of $58.  Here was a man who could not discern a financial anointing, a financial deliverer God had sent into his life 2 unlock his faith.  Perhaps, he had some terrible experiences or heard great criticism of ministers in his youthful days.  Chances are that his backslidden state from God made him angry at any discussion of money.  At any rate, he reacted, and refused 2 participate in the SEED of $58.
     Across the building sat another precious lady, a minister of the gospel.  Her heart was stirred.  She discerned the atmosphere of heaven in the service.  She pulled out her checkbook and sowed a special SEED of $58.  (On the left-hand side of the check, she wrote "Covenant of Blessing.")  A few months later, an old man she had been caring 4 died.  Thinking he was broke, she had been purchasing his medicine 4 him.  She thought he died impoverished.  However, after his death, he left her a church paid for, 2 Homes and 27 acres of ground completely paid for!  Within 2 years, the geological report came back they had discovered gold on the 27 acres of ground!
     Same service.  Two people.  One sneered and refused 2 recognize the anointing of God.
     The second tasted the supernatural supply.
     One man told me after a service one night, "I do not really understand about this SEED of $58."  "It is quite simple.  The SEED that leaves your hand never really leaves your life--it simply leaves your hand and goes into your own FUTURE where it multiplies."
     Those who doubt are forced 2 live w/the consequences of their unbelief.   Those who believe can expect 2 face the rewards of their believing.
     Doubt is a tragic and unfortunate cancer in the body of Christ.  Oh, precious friend, do not permit it 2 destroy your life.
     Some are intimidated by the self-confidence of a financial deliverer.  To them, financial blessing is a difficult, hard and arduous journey up the long mountain of life.  It seems impossible 2 achieve.  When they C the brash and light approach, they are turned off.
     Some are thinking about the limitations of their salary instead of hearing about the potential of their faith.
     Others simply feel that the risk of the faith life is 2 great.  They hold on  every cent.  They hoard.  They feel personally responsible 4 every dollar that comes into their life and cannot grasp the greatness of a Provider, GOD, who cares deeply 4 them.
      Thousands refuse 2 embrace the faith challenge of a financial deliverer and mentor that God sends.  They will spend the rest of their life scraping pennies, wishing their life could have a breakthrough.


Wednesday, September 14, 2011

14 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 - "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not 2 pay it; 4 He hath no pleasure in fools:  pay that which thou has vowed.  Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, that thou should vow and not pay."

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REASON #14 - MANY FORGET OR REFUSE 2 PAY THEIR VOWS MADE 2 GOD.

     Vows are not frivolous things 2 God.
     God is not playful, frivolous nor trivial.
     He takes your promises 2 Him quite seriously.  "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not 2 pay it; 4 He hath no pleasure in fools:  pay that which thou has vowed.  Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, that thou should vow and not pay." (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5).
     God describes promise breakers as fools.  That is why it is so important not 2 position yourself as a fool bcoz fools are ultimately destroyed.
     God humiliates fools.
     God moves away from fools.
     God uses fools as illustrations 4 destruction.  Always keep your promises.  To your family.  To your wife or husband.  To the Lord who promised u His Best.  It is important that u develop impeccable and unwavering integrity when u give your word in a business transaction or 2 your children.
     God is a covenant God.  He remembers every vow u have made b4 Him and man.
     Oh, stop and re-examine your life this very moment!  Have u made any financial vows 2 your church or 2 the man of God in your life?  Pay them.  Whatever it takes.  Pay your vows.
     It will break "The Curse".  When u keep your vow, God's very best 'begins' 2 come 2 u.  Read Deuteronomy 28 and Leviticus 26.  God guarantees that incredible blessings always come 2 those who 'observe and 2 do all His commandments" (Deuteronomy 28:1).
     After an anointed banquet one evening, an articulate and well-dressed lady approached me.
     "I know God has spoken 2 me tonight 2 plant a SEED of $1,000 in your ministry.  U will receive it in a few days," she said wiping tears of joy from her eyes.
     A few days later, her letter arrived.  It was an apology.  "After I talked 2 my husband, I felt tha I should break my promise 2 u.  I do not believe we can really afford 2 sow this special SEED at this time," she wrote.  Oh, the heartache that broken promises are creating in  our lives.
      U C, while she was in the Presence of God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit was hovering over the congregation, the SEEDS of her faith exploded within her heart.
     God spoke.
     She heard.  She moved swiftly.
     She quickly declared her covenant w/God.  After she moved away from His Presence, discussed this gigantic step of faith w/an unbelieving husband, she withdrew from her covenant which she had entered into w/God.  Oh, only time will reveal the curse that such an attitude of frivolity and light-heartedness will produce in our lives.
    Many years ago I was sitting in my bed watching a religious television program.  Suddenly, a famous evangelist looked into the camera and said so forcibly, "If u have made a vow 2 God at any time and not paid it, u have LAUNCHED a parade of tragedies.  Please sit down today and pay your vows."  Conviction smote my heart.
     Over 2 years b4, I had promised a missionary in Africa that I would help sponsor some students 4 scholarships in his Bible college.  I had asked him 2 rush me material about it.  When I did not receive the material, I did nothing.  I did not telephone him or pursue a reason.  I simply used it as an excuse 2 'escape my vow' that I had made 2 him.
     As I watched the telecast that night, God reminded me of my promise.  As I felt my heart pound, I knelt beside my bed and prayed, "Please 4give me.  Give me another chance.  do not withhold your harvest from me."  It was midnight, but I called my secretary anyway.  "Whatever u do, when u arrive at the office tomorrow morning, please take the checkbook.  Write out a check 2 this Bible school in East Africa.  Airmail it.  I cannot live another day w/o the blessing of God flowing upon me.  I cannot afford a curse in my life and ministry."
     I have seen 100s lift their hands and make faith promises, "Yes, I will plant a monthly SEED 2 help u spread the wisdom of God."  Yet, over 50 percent will never sit down and plant that SEED of Promise they vowed publicly 2 plant.
     "Maybe they cannot afford 2 do it!"  is a common explanation.  I have seen many people make this claim, Yet they continue 2 receive salary raises, new TV sets, and purchase a new automobile.  They take their family out 2 eat at the nicest restaurants, purchase new clothes and send their children thru college.  Thru-out all of this spending, they make the same claim, "I really cannot keep my faith promise."
     "Would u like 3 me  ask God 2 make u as poor as u tell everybody u really are?"  I asked jokingly of one of my relatives one day.
     When u make a faith promise, u have entered into a covenant between u and God.  Do not treat it lightly and w/frivolity.  Make every effort 2 pay it.
     If u do not presently have enough finances 2 fully pay your vow at one time, start planting small SEEDS as often as possible.  Your harvest will start increasing.  Then, u will find it possible 2 complete your faith promise and vow and begin your days of Blessing.
     Do u truly feel that u have made a mistake?  Then ask the Lord 2 give u an extra supernatural miracle so that u can complete your faith vow 2 Him in a supernatural way.  U are only responsible w/what He provides.  If He does not provide, u are released of your part.
     It is not merely the man of God who is authorized necessarily 2 'let u off."  This faith promise is between u and God.  It must be settled between u and Him.
     An unpaid vow is one of the powerful reasons 1000s have never tasted the reward of their step of faith.

     Let's pray together:
     "Father, 4give me 4 any unpaid vows.  U will come first from this day on.  I will keep my covenant w/You bcoz I need the Harvest far more than I need my SEED.  Provide 4 me and make it possible 4 me 2 have the finances necessary 2 keep my word 2 You.  U know my heart of faith and will not disappoint me.  I believe Your Word today.  In Jesus sweet powerful Name.  Amen and Thank You."

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Three Steps to Abundance

More in Earning,

Three Steps to Abundance

By Gabrielle Bernstein | Tuesday September 13, 2011
 
http://www.etsy.com/listing/71359823/mustard-wall-art-smile-photo-print?ref=sr_gallery_14&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=positive+thinking&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade/artEver feel like you’re constantly striving for financial abundance, but can’t get there? It’s time for a new perspective on abundance itself.

Follow these three steps to recalibrate your money mindset and boost your bank account:
  • Check your thoughts. Become conscious of the stories you tell yourself about your finances, like “I’ll never get out of debt” or “I can’t ask for more money in a recession.” List the fear-based money thoughts you’ve been replaying. What have been the consequences?
  • Get creative. Open up your creative capacity by actively thinking (or saying out loud) a positive money affirmation that you can truly get behind, even if it feels unfamiliar at first. Not sure where to start? Try “I welcome creative ways of making money.”
  • Take abundantly aligned ACTION. Practice using your affirmation before an interview or meeting. The outside world reflects your internal condition, so be mindful of what you’re thinking before you act.
For the next month, take one daily action that is backed by your abundant mentality. Even if it feels uncomfortable, embrace it as a sign you’re moving forward. One shift at a time will guide you to believe in your abundance.

And if you want to make even more shifts, check out my new book, Spirit Junkie: A Radical Road to Self-Love and Miracles. That’s all about abundance in every area of your life!

Think happy thoughts. How could you benefit from changing your money mindset?

photo source: TheGinghamOwl's shop on etsy

13 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    II Samuel 24:25 - "And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings.  So the LORD was intreated 4 the land, and the plague was stayed from Israel."


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REASON #13 - MOST PEOPLE HAVE NEVER LEARNED THE SECRET OF GIVING THEIR SEED A SPECIFIC ASSIGNMENT.

     Every SEED contains an invisible INSTRUCTION.
     Let me explain.  U cannot C it.  It is 2 small and invisible 2 the natural eye.  But, it is obviously there.  If u could look deep into the watermelon seed, u would C an invisible instruction 2 "produce a watermelon."  Tomato seeds contain invisible instructions 2 "produce tomatoes."
      There is no wavering or uncertainty.  Every seed contains an incredible assignment.  It is PRECISE, EXACT and SPECIFIC.  The Creator had decided the Harvest when He created the SEED.
     When God wanted a family, He sowed His Son.  He gave His Son an assignment 2 "seek and save that which was lost."  Jesus was the best SEED God ever planted on Earth.  But, He contained an assignment, an Instruction, a Purpose.  Everything He did was connected 2 that assignment every day of His life.
     David tapped into the incredible secret of giving his SEED a specific assignment.  When 1000s lay dead across the city, he cried out 2 God and brought Him a specific offering 4 a specific purpose.  "And  David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings.  So the LORD was intreated 4 the land."  What was the Harvest?  "And the plague was stayed from Israel" (Read II Samuel 24:25).
     Elijah taught this incredible Principle of Assignment 2 the widow of Zarephath.  As she was going 2 bring water, he gave her a specific instruction... "Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand."
     Then, he did something few ministers ever do.  He gave her a photograph of what her SEED was going 2 produce.  "For thus saith  the LORD God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the Earth" (I Kings 17:14).
     When u give your SEED an assignment, incredible faith pours into u.  U can C beyond the sacrifice of the moment.  The widow did.  "And she went and did according 2 the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days" (I Kings 17:15).
     Does it really work?  If u sow 4 a specific reason, toward a harvest, does  it work?  It works  if u are doing it in total obedience 2 the Instructions of God.  "And the barrel wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according 2 the word of the LORD, which he spake by Elijah" (I Kings 17:16). Those Instructions may be thru (1)a servant of God, (2) the Word of God or (3) thru the inner Voice of the Holy Spirit.
     Your prayers are SEED, too.
     Job sowed a prayer of deliverance 4 his 3 friends.  What happened?  God turned Job's captivity around!  Just like David had stopped a tragedy by offering a special offering 2 the LORD.
     Many years ago, I experienced a personal attack.  It was devastating 2 me emotionally.   My mind was fragmented.  Inside, my heart was broken, and I wanted 2 die.  It was a situation that would have been complicated by any retaliation or attempts of explanation.  I flew 2 Los Angeles 4 another crusade on the same day.  The next morning, a Sunday, the Holy Spirit gave me a strange instruction.  "Plant a Battle SEED."
     I had never heard of such a thing.  When u want something u have never had, u have got 2 do something u have never done.
     Then, I remembered when David had aimed his SEED like an arrow.  He gave it an assignment.  He focused it 4 a desired result.  And the plague was stayed (II Samuel 25:25).
     I planted everything I had that day-- $3000.   Supernaturally the attack ended as suddenly as it had began.  Is it not wonderful?  U always have a SEED that becomes an EXIT from your present circumstances.
     Your SEED is always the DOOR out of trouble.  It is ANYTHING u do that helps another person.  Your SEED is anything that improves the life of someone near u.  It may be the SEED of INFORMATION, SEED of ENCOURAGEMENT or even the SEED of FINANCES.  Whatever u plant, u must remember 2 give your SEED a specific assignment so that your faith will not waver.  "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.  For he that wavereth is like a wave of the Sea driven w/the wind and tossed.  For let NOT that man [person] think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.  A double-minded man is Unstable in all his ways" (James 1:6-8).
     Your faith must have a specific Instruction. Not 2. Not three, but ONE.  "This one thing I do," was the words of the great man of God.  David cried out, "My heart is FIXED" (Psalms 57:7).
     Do not waver. Aim your SEED.  "Turn not 2 the right hand nor 2 the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest" (Joshua 1:7). 
     Giving your SEED a specific assignment strongly impacts your FOCUS.  And focus matters.  The SECRET of success is CONCENTRATION.  The only reason people fail is BROKEN focus.
     It is a tragic situation that I have observed on many Sunday mornings in churches.   The offering is being received.  The pastor explains how the offering will be spent, "We really need a roof.  The present roof is in need of repair.  Will u help us today?"
     The people respond.  But their SEED has not really received an INSTRUCTION.  Of course it pays the bills.  But, it does not really MULTPLY back into their lives.  Why?  It has not been AIMED 2 create a specific harvest or desired result.  U C, if the only desired result involved is 2 pay the roofer, that is accomplished easily... but the SEED sowers never receive their 'personal' harvest in return.  Sow your SEED 'consistently'.  Generously.  And always in obedience 2 the Voice of God.  Then, wrap your faith around your SEED and target it like an arrow.  Enter into a covenant 4 a specific and desired result in your life.
     Thousands fail 2 do this and never enjoy the financial harvest God promised.  "U have not, bcoz u ask not" (James 4:2).

     Let us pray together:
     "Father, You gave Jesus, Your best SEED, an Assignment.  You wanted a Family.  Now, millions are born again and changed 4ever.  You are producing the Harvest Your desired.  Teach us the Principle of Assignment--giving every SEED we sow, a specific assignment.  Remind us 2 water and nurture the SEED w/Expectation, Doubting nothing.   In Jesus Name.  Amen."

Monday, September 12, 2011

12 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========        REASON #12 - MANY ARE NOT WORKING AT THEIR PLACE OF ASSIGNMENT.

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     Your assignment is always 2 a place.
     The early disciples knew this very well.  "As they ministered 2 the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, Separate me Barnabus and Saul 4 the work where unto I have called them" (Acts 13:2).
     The Holy Spirit is the only One who knows where your gifts will flourish and where u really belong.  "So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost departed unto Seleucia; from thence they sailed 2 Cyprus" (Acts 13:4).
     Philip also knew the importance of obeying the Voice of the Holy Spirit 2 go 2 a certain place.  "And the Angel of the LORD spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the South unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.  And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace Queen of the Ethiopians... Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.  Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself 2 this chariot (Acts 8:26-29).
     Jesus understood the importance of being in the right place at the right time.  "He left Judaea and departed again unto Galilee (John 4:30).   It was here He changed the life of the woman of Samaria 4ever.

     > The right people are waiting 4 u at the right place of assignment (Ruth 1-4).
     >  The right miracles always occur when u are at the right place (John 6:19-21).
     >  Prosperity and Provision are always available when u are at the right place (John 6:12-13).
     >  Favor always flows toward u when u are  laboring at the right place (Ruth 2:3-18).

     It happened 2 Ruth  when Boaz, the wealthy land owner observed her working in his field.
     Those u love the most may not discern where u really belong.  Ruth experienced this when her embittered mother-in-law insisted she return w/her sister-in-law back 2 Moab instead of following her 2 Bethlehem.  "Behold, they sister-in-law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods:  return thou after they sister-in-law" (Ruth 1:15).
     Working and saying NO at the right place of your assignment may require uncommon tenacity and persistence.  Naomi saw this in the heart of Ruth when she tried 2 discourage her from accompanying her 2 Bethlehem.  "When she saw that she was steadfastly minded 2 go w/her, then she left speaking unto her" (Ruth 1:18). a
     You may have 2 exit a place of comfort 2 enter a place of promotion.  "And Ruth said, "Intreat me not 2 leave thee, or 2 return from following after thee, 4 whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: they people shall be my people, and thy God my God:  Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried:  the LORD do so 2 me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me" (Ruth 1:16-17). 
     The place that often  appears 2b the wrong place may become the right place.  This may be where u make the Golden Connection of your lifetime.  "And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were  bound:  and he was there in the prison.  But the LORD was w/Joseph, and showed him mercy and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison" (Genesis 39:20-21).
     It was in this same prison where false accusation placed him that Joseph met the butler who connected him 2 Pharaoh.  There, he became the prime minister of all of Egypt.  Do not be discouraged today bcoz it appears your dreams and goals will never come 2 pass.
     The greatest friendships are often birthed in very terrible places and difficult circumstances.
     Difficult places often turn out 2 be great places.  "The keeper of the prison looked not 2 anything that was under his hand: bcoz the LORD was w/him, [Joseph] and that which he did, the LORD made it 2 prosper" (Genesis 39:23).
     Geography greatly matters in your success.  It is so important 2b led by the Holy Spirit.  "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Romans 8:14).  God promises that u will hear a Voice behind u saying "This is the Way, walk ye in it" (Isaiah 30:21). 
     The right place often appears 2b  the wrong place at first.  Joseph discovered this.  The prison could not have looked appealing.  he did not exclaim, "Yes!  Exactly like I saw in my dream!"  Hardly.  But, it was the place where God was directing his steps.  This is Trust.  This reveals confidence in the god of his life.  "Trust in the LORD w/all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6).     
      When u  are  where u really belong, u will find yourself becoming excited about your work.  U even arrive early and often work overtime.  Why?  You are in the center of your assignment-- the place where u are celebrated instead of tolerated.  U will look 4 changes that can improve the environment, solutions that solve problems, and continuously find something 2 improve.
     When u are working at the wrong place, u may habitually start arriving late.  Subconsciously, u are dreading getting there.  U wait 15 minutes ahead of time at the punch-out clock anxious 2 leave 4 home.  U complain and gripe about every little change that occurs.  U work slower than everyone else.  Your mistakes increase bcoz of your inability 2 focus.  Attentiveness becomes impossilbe.
     You are simply at the wrong place or have a wrong attitude towards it.
     It is so easy 2 understand why many people never receive promotions, an extra bonus or a raise.  They are not where they should be.  Their lack of desire 4 excellence is proof.
     What should u do when u realize u are out of place?  Wrong job?  Or, u are not fulfilling the center of your assignment?
     First, recognize that the Holy Spirit may have u there 4 reasons u may not understand.  things may be difficult but u can still be the catalyst 4 change.  Titus received this special and unique word from the Apostle Paul.  Paul recognized that "The Cretians are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies" (Titus 1:12).  He agreed that the witness was true (Titus 1:13). But, he explained this 2 Titus, "For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee...  Where4 rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;  Not giving heed 2 Jewish fables, and commandments-of-men, that turn from the Truth" (Titus 1:5,13-14).
     Your assignment will never be 2 someone who is perfect or u would have no place 2 go.
     Your assignment will not always be 2 a perfect environment; u may be the one assigned 2 bring it 2 a new level of excellence.
     Wherever u are presently assigned, determine 2 excel.  As u do, u will receive the special attention of God.  "Servants, be obedient 2 them that are your masters according 2 the flesh, w/fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;  Not w/eye-service, as men pleasers;  but as the servants of Christ;  doing the will of God from the heart" (Ephesians 6:5-6).
     Your aim should be the highest level of excellence bcoz u are doing it unto God and not simply 2 your boss.  "With good will doing service, as 2 the LORD, and not 2 men" (Ephesians 6:7).         
     Whatever u do 2 excel (even in your present position) will be honored, compensated and fully rewarded by the God who observes u continually.  "Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the LORD, whether he be bond or free" (Ephesians 6:8).  It is a powerful Golden KEY that I have used countless 100s of time in my life:  What U Make Happen 4 Others, God Will Make Happen 4 U.  Do your work w/such excellence that your standard excels and surpasses that of your co-workers.
     Exceed your supervisor's expectations so that u are chosen 2 replace him.  "And the keeper of the prison committed 2 Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it" (Genesis 39:22). 
     Continually explore opportunities 2 solve uncommon problems.  Joseph did.  "And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad" (Genesis 40:6).  It was this keen observation and the attentiveness 2 the problems of others that brought Joseph 2 the golden door of the palace.  When he accurately interpreted the dreams of the butler and the baker, he created a corridor 2 the heart of Pharaoh.
     Interpreting dreams was not on his job resume.  Nobody else had discerned this gift within him.  He alone knew his gift and calling.  He continuously looked 4 an opportunity 4 God 2 use them.  Within 24 months he was the prime minister of  the greatest nation on Earth, Egypt.
     Uncommon diligence always attracts attention.
     Do your work w/such diligence that u become the topic of conversation of others.  This happened 2 Ruth.  Boaz asked his servants, "Whose damsel is this ?"  She was so diligent they discussed her incredible schedule of work,  "She came and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house." (Ruth 2:7b).  
     Financial crisis can make u vulnerable.  May u accepted the most convenient or accessible job opportunity available.  Deep in your heart u have become frustrated and discontented.  Your greatest gifts are lying dormant.  Undiscovered.  Undiscerned.  Unused.  Unrewarded.
     Oh, I want 2 encourage u today!  SEASONS WILL CHANGE.  U will not stay where u are very long.  Using the Golden KEY of Diligence (speedy attention 2 an assignment task) and Integrity (doing exactly what u promised your boss u would do on the schedule he expected) u will rise above it all.
     Many years ago, I read that 7 out of 10 employees in America were working on the 'wrong' jobs, performing tasks they dreaded and never receiving a promotion bcoz of it.
     That is  one of the major reasons u may not be receiving the financial harvest God wants u 2 enjoy.
     I will never 4get the conversation.  After I spoke one evening, an older man walked up 2 me and complained, "Dr. Mike, this prosperity stuff never worked 4 me."  "Well, tell me about it,"  I replied.  "I have worked on my job 27 years."  "U must love your job,  "I admired.   "I hate my job,"  was his surprising reply.  "Well, then why are you working there?"  I asked.
     His reply should be carved in concrete.  I will never 4get it as long as I live.  "It is only 10 minutes from my house."
     I stared in disbelief.  Convenience had made a slave out of an incredible potential champion.
     Then, he added another shocking statement that explained why he stayed on the same job for 27 long dreary years.
     "In 3 years,  I will get a gold watch."  Imagine exchanging one half of your working life 4 a little gold watch.  How tragic!
     Are u working on your job bcoz it is near your house?  Are u working at your job bcoz the demands are few?  Have u really spent time in the Secret Place, inquiring of the Holy Spirit as 2 the place where u should empty your life?  Is it serious enough 2 u 2 enter a special time of fasting?  Are u working at your job bcoz it appears 2 pay more money than were u really belong?  Does this indicate that u can be "bought" if the money is right?
     "Well, u know, a man has got 2 eat, Dr. Mike."  Is that your major goal in life, 2 have just enough money 4 survival?
     Provision is only guaranteed at your place of obedience.  Ruth had 2 be at the place where Boaz could C her.  Joseph had 2b seen by Pharaoh b4 he was promoted.
     If u never want 2 go 2 work early, I wold start questioning if I were really at the right place.  If u never have a a passion 2 stay late and complete a project, I would ask the question 2 make certain I was at the right place of assignment.
     If u are at the place where God has presently assigned u, give your best.  Stop looking across the fence at 'greener grass.'  Make your present responsibilities your total focus.  Become obsessed w/achieving the highest level of excellence any one has ever reached in your position.
     If u are not where God has assigned u, start moving.  Talk it out w/your mentor, your boss and your family.  Find out where u would excel and do your very very best.
     When u are at the right place, the right people move toward u.
     One day of favor is worth 1000 days of labor.  U cannot work hard enough 2 get everything u want.  U must move in the currents of uncommon favor.
     Uncommon favor only occurs when u are where God has assigned u.
     When u are where u belong, u will LOVE what u do.  u will not require the constant encouragement and motivation from others.  Instead u will excite those around u.
     When u are where u belong, there will be a natural Joy that creates an incredible environment of motivation 4 others.
     An intriquing story occurs  in I Kings 17.  The prophet Elijah is commanded 2 go 2 the brook Cherith.  There he finds his miracle of Provision during the famine.   A  raven feeds him daily, and the brook supplies his water.  He was where he belonged.
     Suddenly, a crisis occurs.  The brook dried up.  The raven did not return w/food.  Why?  His place of assignment had changed.
     Lack may be a clue that it is time 2 make a geographical change in your assignment.
     Jesus Instructed Peter 2 go fishing.  When he caught 'the' fish, a coin 4 Tax Money was in its mouth.   Why?  He was where he had been assigned.
     When u are at your place of assignment, u will notice things others may overlook.  A tailor notices a missing button.  The hair stylist sees the roots of the hair need dying again.  The mechanic hears a sound in the car engine nobody else heard.
     Your assignment determines the problems that get your attention.  This occured in Joseph's life.  He noticed the sad countenance of 2 prisoners, the butler and the baker.  Joseph responded and it was the vital link 2 his promotion.
     When u are at the wrong place, u may often overlook problems that u should solve.
     When u are at the right place, u may be more discerning and intuitive than everyone else around u.  Why?  U are at the place of your assignment.  Nobody is seeing what u C, knows what u know or cares as much as u care.
     Someone asked me once, "What are the major differences u C between the wealthy and the poor?"  I answered, "When I talk 2 the poor, they are always doing something they hate.  But, when I talk 2 the wealthy, they are always doing projects  and things they really LOVE.  When I talk 2 the poor, they are anxious  get home from work.  When I talk 2 the wealthy, their PASSION is like a magnet keeping them at their place of business."
     Somebody said it so well:  "If u LOVE your work, u will never really work a single day in your life."  Oh, how true!
     Stop and evaluate your life today.  Do not keep rushing into a Future u have not gazed upon.  Do not amble and wonder aimlessly thru life.  Life is 2 precious and SHORT 2 throw away!
     What topic would u rather discuss than any other topic on Earth?  What books do u love 2 read?  If u could write a book about any subject, what would it be? (Mind is about the Kingdom of God) These are CLUES 2 your life assignment.
     Many never find where they really belong and consequently never reeceive the Financial Harvest(s) their Heavenly Father is longing  give 2 them.


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Sunday, September 11, 2011

11 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========     Faith moments are miracle moments


REASON #11 - SOME GIVE ONLY WHEN THEY 'FEEL' LIKE IT, INSTEAD OF WHEN A MAN-OF-GOD INSPIRES THEM.

    Observe Elijah.  He looked into the anguished face of a tormented widow of Zarephath.  Can u possibly imagine the depths of sorrow her soul had plunged?  She had watched her emaciated son wither and shrivel up b4 her very eyes.  She had taken a long, slow march 2 a tragedy.  Her problem was not a mere broken down automobile.  Her problem was not paying her house note on time.  Her financial dream was not 'new clothes."
     She was one meal away from death.
     Is this the kind of crisis that inspires giving?  Hardly.  It is the kind of moment that inspires hoarding.  You are angry.  You are sad.  You are hurting.  U do not want 2 hear any preacher discuss 'sowing SEED."  In fact, any talk about offerings would infuriate and anger anyone in this kind of crisis.  it would be 'normal' 4 her 2 say 2 Elijah, "If u had the Heart of God, u would be giving 2 the poor instead of asking 4 money from me.  If u really knew God, u would have brought me a meal, instead of an offering envelope."
     She had every reason 2 question his validity as a man of God.  Where was his sensitivity?  Where was his compassion, the proof that he cared?
     The proof that he cared was his refusal 2 bog down and wallow w/her in sympathy and self-pity.  He fueled her faith, not her self-pity.  She had every reason 2 question him, but , she did not.  She had something that few have-- the ability 2 recognize a man of God when he came along.  She had the ability 2 listen 2 a challenge instead of criticize it.
     When God loves u enough 2 assign a man of God 2 unlock your faith, u must recognize it as the moment of your miracle.
     I had a puzzling and troubling experience several years ago.  It was at one of my World Wisdom Conferences.  I will never 4get it as long as I live.  Someone handed me a note and said, "A minister here feels led 2 receive an offering 4 your ministry."
     "No, I have already received one.   This is not the time,"  I replied.  One of my closest friends, Nancy Harmon, came and stood beside me and whispered.
     "Mike, this man really wants 2 receive an offering.  He feels that God has spoken 2 him specifically at this point 2 receive an offering."
     "No, Nancy.  I'm the host here, and I really do not feel God in this at all."
     Within a few moments, our evangelist friend came 2 me.  Tears were in his eyes and on his face.  He was shaking his head.  "Brother, I am supposed 2 receive an offering 4 your ministry."
     It bothered me.  It almost agitated and angered me.  Nobody wants 2b led by the Holy Spirit more than Mike Murdock.  I am more sensitive than anybody could imagine.  (Anyone who has written over 5,000 songs is sensitive!)  I simply did not 'feel' the "wind of God" blowing in that service 4 finances.  I had a different plan 4 a special offering later that night and I had already received an offering earlier.  But, I could not doubt he was a man of God.
     His life  proved it.  Proven men of God embraced him as a credible evangelist.  Thousands had come 2 Christ thru him.  He was dynamic.  Articulate.  He obviously carried the Mantle of financial blessing on his life.
     So, I handed him the microphone.  I felt as cold as Alaska, but stood quietly nearby.  He cried.  Everybody else cried.  The offering was received.  Many people rushed 2 the front.  They were carrying checks for $1000 and many others came 4 faith promises.  I never did feel God in it.  Even 2 this day, as I remember those moments,  I never 'felt' God in the entire offering.  However, everyone else received incredible blessing and happiness.  Testimonies have come from that service.  Over $100,000 was promised or given 2 our ministry 2 buy television time.  Yet, I stood in the presence of the man of God and did not feel anything.  But, God required me 2 trust His man, whether I felt it or not.  Had I refused 2 trust the challenge of a man of God, my partners would have lost all their harvests.  My ministry would have lost $100,000 2 purchase television airtime.  Bills would have been unpaid.  Oh, I wonder how much has been lost thru our unwillingness 2 accept the man God sends 2 us.
     If u could C how much financial blessing has been lost bcoz of the moments u decided 2 go by 'your feelings," it would sicken your heart.  If God was 2 replay the Voice of every man of God He had sent 2 u, and remind u of your response of UNBELIEF, u would be unable 2 sleep tonight.
     Your heart would be broken.
     I was in Tulsa during the month of June, 1994.  After a board meeting, I went into a major service.  A wonderful minister friend of mine took the microphone and proceeded 2 receive an offering.  Now, I had already given this ministry several thousand dollars.  So, I sat calmly as others prepared their offerings.  My checkbook was at home (I do not usually like 2 give cash).  I had no intention of giving whatsoever.
     Suddenly, the minister Instructed, "I want everyone 2 plant a SEED of $200, every minister here."  If I remember correctly, he told us 2 focus our SEED 4 a double portion of the Presence of God, and a real visitation of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  Of course, nothing was even implied taht u could buy a miracle from God.  Any fool knows u cannot purchase a miracle from God w/money.  Certainly u cannot buy the Holy Spirit.
     Suddenly my minister friend announced, "While the Holy Spirit is hovering over this place, while the soil is moist, plant your SEED.  Do it now."
     I had no interest in sowing another SEED.  None.  I give and give and give.  Sometimes, I am simply tired of giving.  Especially 2 a ministry that had received much from me already.
     Now, I have healthy fear of God in my life.  It operates strongly.  The thought of 'missing the will of God" is terrifying 2 me.
     Something touched my spirit.  I knew it was important 4 me 2 plant this SEED of $200.  So, I reached reluctantly, but obediently, and pulled out two $100 bills.  I sowed the SEED.  And, walked out of the conference and never thought about my SEED again.  But, the Holy Spirit remembered.
     Oh, I am so thankful 4 the precious Holy Spirit in my life!  He has salvaged me from so many crises!  He has opened so many golden doors of opportunity!  He has created the Golden Connection w/so many precious friends!  He is your precious Source of Blessing too!
     My harvest came in less than 30 days.  I went 2 bed at 5:00am on a Wednesday morning, July 13, 1994.  Two hours later, I was awakened by the Holy Spirit.  That day was the greatest day in my lifetime of memories.  I had indescribable, an unforgettable encounter w/the Holy Spirit on July 13.  I would trade every other discovery of my lifetime 4 what I had discovered about the Holy Spirit on that day.  Less than 30 days after my SEED of $200... in obedience 2 a man of God.  Since then, I have written 100s of songs 2 the Holy Spirit, held scores of Schools of the Holy Spirit and watched 1000s enter into the greatest SEASON of their spiritual life.  The answer was simple.  I had obeyed the INSTRUCTION of a man of God.  
     At some point in your life, God will place His servant b4 u.  His servant will look u in the eye and challenge u 2 plant a SEED of obedience.  It will be an illogical SEED.  it will be a challenging SEED.
     It will require every ounce of your faith.  If u choose 2 reject his challenge, u will miss the most glorious Season-of-Harvest u could have ever tasted.
     If u choose 2 obey the man of God, the Golden Door of Blessing will swing wide and u will step out of famine into the  Season-of-Prosperity u have desired your entire life.
     Let us pray:
     "Oh, Father, 4give us 4 staying in the arena of self-righteousness, logic and human ability.  When u bring your servant into our life, it is 2 bless and empower us.  You are a Good God, a Wonderful God.  A Giving God.  One of the Greatest things You do is inspire us 2 let go of something in our hand so You will let go of what is in Your hand 4 us.  In Jesus Name.  Amen."
 

Saturday, September 10, 2011

10 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========    #10 - MANY PEOPLE DO NOT RECOGNIZE A HARVEST WHEN IT DOES ARRIVE.

     Harvests occur daily in your life.
     What is a harvest?  A harvest is any good thing God sends into your life.  It is any person who blesses, encourages, corrects, strengthens or improves u.  It is any idea planted by your Creator that has potential 4 helping others.
    It is  any opportunity 2 increase your finances, maximize your standard of excellence or unlock a gift or skill within u.   It is any opportunity u have 2 solve a problem.  Almost no one recognizes a harvest when it occurs.
     My mother is a harvest 2 me.  I cannot believe she raised 7 of us children and still kept her Joy.  She insisted on 2 family altars every day, 2 times a day.  Every morning and every night.  She forced us 2 memorize a Scripture every day of our life.  She insisted I attend youth camps and sit and hear the Word of God daily.  She refused 2 permit me 2 attend any 'ungodly events."
     She is one who continuously speaks into my ears always saying, "Son, always remember 2 whom much is given, much is going 2b required."  She is a major and wonderful harvest in my life.  Did I recognize that as a teenage boy?  Not at all.  I hated doing dishes.  I thought that mothers had children so they could have "free servants" doing all the work at the house.  I really believed that! (If u will listen 2 teenagers around the kitchen table after a meal, u will rarely find one who has recognized their parents as harvests from God!)
     My father is a powerful golden harvest in my life.  He has prayed 6 to 10 hours every day that I can recall.  He is 80 years old today, still full of Jesus.  He is obsessed w/Scripture.  I have never heard him tell a lie, curse, or say one sentence that could not be placed on the front page of a newspaper anywhere.  He walks w/God.  My greatest and most familiar memory is him on his knees w/his hands uplifted and praying in a heavenly language.
     He  was a strong disciplinarian.  His whippings last in my memory in an unforgettable way.  I never heard him raise his voice once in my lifetime.  He never screamed.  Mother never yelled at any of us.  I am still saying, "Yes sir."  And, "No sir."  U C, he is a gift from God bcoz he warned, disciplined, and kept me in the Presence of God.
     Your harvest(s) are coming toward u every moment.
     I had spoken 4 a major trucking company several times.  Every CHRISTmas, it has been my privilege 2 speak there.  My last visit 2 Ohio, a trucker came up, "Mike, u told us about planting that SEED of $58 the last time u were here.  But, nothing happened.  It did not work 4 me."  "U did not get any harvest at all?"  I asked.  "Nope.  Nothing."
     He kept some small talk going while my mind raced 4 an appropriate question.  U C, I think any man who could look God in the face and say that he has never received anything from the Hand of God has a serious problem.  (Wisdom may not always make u bold, but I am certain ignorance always makes u bold.)  We talked awhile.  In a few minutes, he stated, "U know, something crazy happened a few weeks ago.  I was driving down this freeway over here, and my semi and my trailer jack-knifed.  Practically came off the freeway.  Could have killed me.  Luckily, I got out w/o a scratch.  Crazy, is it not?"
     This is the  same man who told me 5 minutes b4, "It did not work 4 me.  I have never received a harvest from my SEED."
      I will tell u again.  Almost nobody recognizes a harvest WHEN it occurs.  He could have been paralyzed from his neck down.  A leg could have been chopped off.  He could have died leaving his family w/o a provider.  His 'safety' was a Miracle Harvest, but he never recognized it.
     Every night u are permitted the privilege of driving into your garage, look up at that beautifullll moon and stop and say, "Thank You 4 another beautiful harvest today, Father God."
     U c, He kept His Angels around u every moment of the day.  U did not wake up in a hospital w/tubes running from your body.  Sir, listen 2 me,  That IS a Harvest!  Thousands never made it back Home today, but u did.
     When u wake up in the morning breathing, alive and well, look out your window.  If u can C a sun rising in the morning, beautiful and glowing, u have just received another harvest.   Thousands have never seen a sunrise in their lifetime, but u do!
     When u sit down tonight at supper, look carefully at the bowls full of food.  U can eat until u are stuffed and overflowing.  That IS a Harvest!  I can take u 2 parts of the world such as Calcutta, India, where children die every single night bcoz they could not find enough crumbs in the trash 2 survive another day.  When u swallow your food and digest it, u have just received another harvest.  Thousands are in hospitals this very moment who cannot feed themselves. 
     When u drove in the traffic this morning, en route 2 a full day's work, u just received another harvest.  Millions would give anything today if they knew their 'reason' 2 wake up.  But, they are unemployed.  They are looking 4 a place of significance.
     U have just received another harvest.
     Can u hear the incredible music coming across the wind, or from your stereo?  Thousands of people cannot hear a sound.  But u have just received another harvest.  As u lay your head on your soft pillow tonight, stare at the ceiling a few moments.  It may rain, but u will not be disturbed.  The winds may blow hard, but u will not sense it.  Lightning may flash, but u are safe.  U have a shelter over your head.  U are cozy.  God has again given u another harvest 2b 'thankful 4."
     When your child comes running up 2 u saying , "Daddy, Daddy," u throw your arms out and welcome that child.  U C, 1000s of parents have lost their children.  disease, accidents, irreversible situations have created a great vacuum within them.  Their house is silent, screaming w/the loneliness.  That mother would give anything in the world 2 hear her child cry in the middle of the night.  The father would trade every penny in his savings account 2C his little boy run across t he yard just one more time.  Your children are around u today. 
     You have just received another harvest from the Papa-God who loves u!
      As I awakened this morning, I swung my legs 2 the side of the bed.  I sat there, then moved into the bathroom where I punched "play" on my cassette player.  I began 2 hear the deep, powerful rich voice speaking the Scriptures aloud on the cassette.  My heart begins 2 throb.  Something in me begins 2 feel the energy of the supernatural God I serve.  U C, I have just received another harvest.
     I have found the incredible healing oil, the Word of God, that heals the wounds of my life.  Yet, millions are unsaved, unchanged, and untaught.  I have learned.  I have discovered.  I have Jesus.  he has changed my life.  I have just received another harvest.
     As u sit in your beautiful car today, air conditioned and safe, replay in your mind the 1000s of refuges who are crawling across the desert tonight looking 4 a tent where they can take their family and drink a cup of water.  A slice of bread is celebrated by them.  They have lost their home due 2 the war and conflicts in their country.  U will C it on the news every night of your life.  Yet, u will pull up at a restaurant in a few hours, purchase a hamburger, and complain bcoz something has been left off the sandwich.  Perhaps the pickles or u received mustard instead of mayonnaise.  But, u will find something 2 complain about.  By the way, do not 4get your harvest.  Oh, my friend, Count your blessings, others have so much less!  Unthankfulness was the First Sin, and God has not forgotten.
     your life has been a parade of harvest.
     See, u must learn 2 recognize your harvest.  Your harvest is any person or anything that can bless or benefit u.  It maybe someone who can contribute something u need--information, favor, finances, an explosive idea or encouragement when u need it most.  A harvest is when somebody recommends u 2 another person.  This creates the flow of favor and acceptance toward your life.  Access 2 someone who believes u is a harvest.  Your harvest already exists.
     It is walking around u!  Just as your eyes had 2b opened 2 recognize Jesus, your eyes also must 2b opened 2 recognize your harvests as they come.  The entire World missed the Harvest of Jesus.  "He was in the World, and the World was MADE BY HIM, and the World knew Him not!  He came unto His own, and His own received Him not" (John 1:10-11).  How tragic!  Spiritual leaders, such as teh Pharisees, failed 2 recognize Him!  Politicians of His day failed 2 C Him as their harvest.
     That is why I am baffled, bewildered and angered at the vicious, malicious, unexplainable attach on the message of sowing SEED 4 a harvest.  Recently, I wept b4 a large group of ministers and cried out, "Will somebody explain 2 me why Offering Time is so painful 4 u?  Please tell me why u can spend 2 hours on Friday night sponsoring a basketball game 4 your teenagers, but u think 15 minutes in a service discussing the SEED and the harvest is too long?  Please explain that!  Somebody tell me why it is permissible 2 sit for 90 minutes at a 24 hour restaurant 4 pancakes after church, but a 90 minute message on prosperity from the hand of the Multiplier and Provider aggravates, agitates and infuriates us?  Please explain 2 me.  Tell me why an offering turns u off!"
     "Somebody please tell me why it was all right 4 Jesus 2 die like a dog on Calvary;  8 inches of thorns crushed into His brow; a spear in His side and spikes in His hands and His feet; 400 soldiers spitting on His body; 39 stripes tearing His back 2 shreds 4 'OUR Healing'; His beard ripped off His sweet face.  Yet talking about bringing a dime out of each dollar back  the House of God infuriates those who claim 2b obsessed w/Him and His will.  Will somebody please explain that?"
     What do u have that God did not give u?
     It is He that keeps breathing His Breath into u.  U could not breath another minute if God did not breath into u.
      U could not walk another step if God were not there.  U could not live another day if His Presence were withheld from u.  Everything u possess came from Him.  Everything u will 'ever' own in your Future must come from Him.
     I looked at 100s of pastors in Washington, DC, and cried out, "Please explain why u are embarrassed 2 celebrate sowing a SEED into the work of Jesus Christ!  Why?  Why?  WHY?  Why is that so humiliating 2 u?  Why are u so bold and audacious and brash enough 2 ask God 4 a continuous stream of miracles 4 everybody in your church, yet u do not have enough boldness 2 look in the face of your people and Instruct them 2 bring an offering 2 the front and place it openly and Joyfully in His hand?  Why?  Is it a reward 4 a boxer 2 receive $14 millions dollars for 90 SECONDS of boxing?  Another athlete receives $40 MILLION for bouncing a basketball.  yet, why is bringing 10 CENTS 2 God so burdensome 2 us?
     Why is it painful 4 us 2 ask some one for $20 2 spread the Name of Jesus, the Greatest Name on Earth that brings men,  women and children out of hell into Heaven?
      O, Listen 2 me.  Hear my Heart today!  When your pastor receives an offering, he has just opened the door 4 YOU 2 change the SEASONS of your life.  U can whine about it.  Complain about it.  Sneer and ridicule.  U may even say idiotic things like, "I am so glad our pastor never talks about Money."  Frankly, I would never attend a church twice that did not discuss money often.  U C, I think about supply every day of my life.  The last thing I need is someone who ignores the greatest  needs in my life!
     Some board members recently discussed the salary of their pastor w/me.  They were concerned.  They felt his income might be a little larger than necessary.
     "Is your family ready 4 Heaven should they die?"  I asked.  "Whose teaching has sustained them and kept them close 2 God?"
     As we talked, their eyes widened.  They understood.  They were actually considering lowering his salary, yet he was the man who was the Prayer Covering over their lives, driving back the darkness of error, smashing the locks on their mental prisons, and bringing them into the Presence of God whose Peace and Joy was multiplied in their lives.  Their pastor had changed them 4ever.  But they did not recognize him as their harvest.
     It is possible that your miracle harvest is going past u every day.
     U are failing 2 C it.  Failing 2 appropriate it.  Failing 2b thankful 4 it.
     U must stop how busy u are, long enough 2 C what is happening around u.
     U are moving toward something wonderful.  Something marvelous is also moving toward u. Can u slow down long enough 2 discern it?  Nobody else an do it 4 u.  Nobody.  Nobody else should do it 4 u.  U are responsible 4 your life, your SEED, and your harvest(s).
     "Oh, I wish I could try one more time," a woman cried.  "I made a huge mistake w/my husband.  it was my fault.  he was the greatest man I ever knew, but I managed 2 find flaws and things I did not like about him.  I want 2 go back Home, but I cannot."
     It was 2 late.  Her harvest had gone thru her fingers.  It was over.
     Often I hear, "Dr. Mike, I give and give and give, but God never gives it back 2 me.  I never receive the harvest.  What should I do?"
      That question haunts me.  How could any person who had any discerning at all of the blessings of God stand boldly and unashamedly and say, "God never blesses me?"  It is explainable... That individual has no idea what a harvest even looks like.
     Do u?
     Oh, friend, recognize any ingratitude on your part and repent immediately.
     Let us pray 4 one moment:
     "Father God, 4give us 4 ingratitude, unthankfulness and any blindness toward the harvest You have provided.  It is true that our complaining spirit has robbed us and aborted many miracles You had scheduled 4 us.  In the Name of Jesus, I release myself 2 You.  I give all of me 2 You, knowing that You will reveal wonderful and powerful thing(s) 2 me.
     Thank You Lord 4 my health, my eyesight, and ability 2 walk today.  Thank You 4 the Mind that You have given me, and the doors of favor that have opened into my life.  You are a marvelous, powerful and Giving God!  I am thankful.  I am grateful.  And I shall not forget Your Hand of blessing in my life.
     Show me what 2 do.  I will obey You.  I will Listen 2 Your Voice, and I will be swift 2 give You the Glory and Praise 4 every good thing You do 4 me.  You will receive 10 percent of everything You bless me with, and even more as You provide.  I thank You 4 every blessing in the Name of Jesus.  Amen."

Friday, September 9, 2011

09 of 31 Reasons People Do Not Receive Their Financial Harvest

Introduction
=========   REASON #09 - MANY DO NOT RECOGNIZE THE SEED OR THE SOIL WHEN THEY SEE IT.

     A SEED is a tiny beginning w/a huge Future.
     It is anything that can become more.   It is the Beginning.  It is anything u can do, know or possess that can improve the life of another.  

     What can u 'do' that can improve someone's life?  What do u 'know' that can improve someone's life?  What do u possess that can improve someone's life?

     Your Thoughts are SEEDS 4 desired behavior, conduct and creativity.
     Your Love is a SEED 4 relationships.
     Your TIME is a SEED.
     Your Patience is a SEED.
     Your Money is a SEED.
     Your Kindness is a SEED 2 others.
     Your Prayers are SEEDS.
     Stopping slander is a SEED.
     Thankfulness is a SEED.
     Your SEED is anything u have received from God that can be traded 4 something else.
     U are a walking warehouse of SEEDS.  Most people do not even know this.  They have no idea how many SEEDS they contain that can be planted into the lives of others.

     > Anything that improves another is a SEED.
     > Anything that makes another smile is a SEED.
     > Anything that makes someone's life easier is a SEED.

     Millions are so busy studying what they do not have they usually overlook something they have already received.
     Certainly u must inventory your own 'needs.'  But it is more important 2 inventory your SEEDS.  Stop focusing on what u do not have, and look closer at something u already have been given.
     Moses did.  He complained that he could not talk.  God Instructed him 2 shut up an acknowledge the rod in his hand.  That was his SEED.  His 'tool' 2 create his Future.
     David complained that he could not use the armor of Saul.  God Instructed him 2 look back at the slingshot he possessed.  God always gives u something that can begin your Future.
     Something u have been 'given' will create anything else u have been 'promised.'  Little things birth big things.  Acorns become oak trees.
     One of my associate evangelists has some remarkable qualities that will make him succeed w/his life.  He is willing 2b corrected.  He never pouts, never sulks, never withdraws.  When he makes a mistake, he is swift 2 admit it.  he does not have a lazy bone 2 him.  His golden attitude is a golden SEED.
     So, when God provided some extra finances 4 my ministry, the first thing I wanted 2 do is purchase him a suit.  Why?  His SEEDS of kindness, faithfulness and love were working.  His harvest was inevitable.
     Most people have no idea what a SEED really is.
 

       Showing up at work on time... is a SEED.  Showing up ahead of time is another SEED.  U C, anything that u can do 2 make life easier 4 your boss or anyone else... is a SEED.
     Millions have never used 10 percent of the SEED stored within them.  U C, mowing the grass 4 your church is a SEED.  Baby-sitting 4 a struggling single parent is a SEED.
     U are a Living collection of SEEDS, a warehouse of powerful, tiny golden passionate beginnings.
    U must recognize the SEEDS God has 'already' stored within u.  Your SEED is 'any' gift, skill, or talent that God has provided 4 u 2 sow into the lives of others around u.  Do not hide it.  Use your SEED.  Celebrate the existence of SEEDS in your life... that are carving the road 2 your Future.  Even Joseph recognized his ability 2 interpret dreams.  He wanted 2 help others.  When Pharaoh became troubled, Joseph had a SEED 2 sow toward his life.  "A man's gift maketh room 4 him and bringeth him b4 great men" (Proverbs 18:16).
     One of the greatest stories in ancient writings is in I Kings 17.  Elijah was being fed by ravens at the brook, Cherith.  When the brook dried up and the raven failed 2 show, God gave him a new Instruction 2 go 2 Zarephath, a small village in Zidon.  There, a widow would receive an Instruction 2 provide food 4 him.  When he arrived at the widow's, the scene was dismal and tragic.  She was out gathering 2 sticks (I will call them 2 pancakes).  Her son lay emaciated on his deathbed in her little house.
     Yet, the man of God spoke boldly 2 her 2 plant a SEED and give him some of her food.
     Her supply had run out.  She had no Faith 4 survival.  She had no faith 4 provision.  she was looking at her last meal on Earth 4 her and her son.
     Now, imagine the Instructions from the man of God.  "Take one of those pancakes and give it 2 me."  She  could have easily said, "Every one of u preachers have been trying 2 get my pancakes.  I received 10 letters this week from TV preachers wanting 2 share this pancake." lol
     But, Elijah starts giving Instructions that are Scriptural.  His Instructions were SEEDS.  He was sowing them toward the widow.  "Would u get some water 4 me?  While u are at it, would u bring me a little meal?"
     "I cannot do that.  I do not have enough 4 all of us.  Just enough 4 me and my son."  Elijah explained patiently,  "I understand that.  U are wise 2 take care of your son.  I want u 2 do that.  But, first bring something 2 me  as a man of God.  Sow it as a beginning, a SEED."
     Then, he suddenly gives her a 'REASON' 4 sowing.  No, he does not pull out his newsletter and show her a photograph of a dead bird lol who never showed back up 2 feed him.   He made no reference 2 the brook drying up.  He never told her that his ministry was over and he would starve if she did not cook him a meal.
     Rather he showed her a picture of a Future.  Something that she had not noticed b4.  He revealed 2 her that something she already had in her possession [oil, flour] was the golden KEY 2 getting into her Future.  He gave her a 'picture' of the potential supply, the harvest. (I Kings 17:14).
     U need somebody help u sow the SEED u already possess.  U need someone 2 show u a 'picture' of the Future within it.
  Develop an appreciation 4 the man of God who helps u discover your SEED, and provides a photograph of the harvest u can expect.
     Elijah did it.  It turned a poor woman into a miracle woman.  From poverty 2 plenty.  From famine 2 supply.
     U C, most people have not even noticed something they already have that can create their Future.  Your TME is a SEED.
     It will produce what money cannot.  A friend of mine was brokenhearted.  His teenage son had received a car, world travel tickets, and still hated his father.
     "Change the SEED if u do not like the harvest u are producing," I said.  "Stop the money flow.  Provide him 2 hours a day for 14 days of nonjudgmental time.  Give him what he cannot find anywhere else and he will return 2 u.  Create a non-critical climate.  Permit him 2 talk and discuss anything w/u for 2 hours a day.  Document what occurs."  Two weeks later they became best buddies, going fishing in the morning.  The crisis was over.  He found a SEED that would produce the desired result.
     TIME is a precious thing.  Wherever u sow it, something incredible will 'grow.'
     Think of huge space called eternity.  God reached into it and took a chunk of it and placed it on Earth, calling it TIME.  Imagine Him saying, "Here is Time.  U can trade it 4 anything else u want on Earth."  He did not give u friends.  He gave u TIME.  U sowed Time into others and created strong friendships.  God has never "handed" u any money.  He gave u TIME.  U went 2 someone w/money and exchanged your Time 4 their money.  Your boss has money, and u have "TIME" in the way of work 2 trade with.
     TIME is the currency on Earth.
     France has the franc,  Germany has the marc.  Japan has the yen.  England has the pound.  Mexico has the peso.  America has the dollar.
     Your currency on Earth is TIME.  God gave u TIME 2 exchange 4 anything else that was important 2 u.
     I have never met a poor person who was really conscious of the importance of Time.  I have never met a wealthy person who was not aware of the importance of Time.  U C, your TIME is a precious gift from God.
     TIME is your SEED that can produce what money cannot buy.
     
Imagine this scenario w/me 4 a moment.  U happen 2b in the office when your boss leans back in his chair and sighs,   "I sure wish I had a good glass of carrot juice."  Let me show u a few responses that usually occur:


     1.  $5.00  an hour employee:  "I would like 2 have a glass of carrot juice too!"


     2.  $6.00 an hour employee:  "U like carrot juice!   I like cokes myself."


     3.  $7.00 an hour employee:  "If I had some carrots, I would make u some."


     4.   $8.00 an hour employee:  "Would u like 4 me 2 find someone 2 make u some?"

     5.  Employee who can decide his own salary:  "I will be right back, sir, within 20 minutes."  He returns w/a glass of carrot juice requesting more information.  "Would u like this daily at a specific time?  It can happen, sir."  That is SEED sowing.
     Every time your boss is disappointed, u have a chance 2 prove your uniqueness and significance.  Every time u C him unhappy, it is a potential 2 a promotion.  Look, look and look again 4 opportunities 2 plant a SEED.  They surround u every day.  Hundreds of them.
     Every SEED is a Golden Door from your present into your Future.
     If u do not recognize a SEED, how could u ever recognize the harvest from it?   If a farmer has never seen what a kernel of corn looks like, do u think he would recognize a field of stalks of corn on the side of the road?  Of course not.  U cannot begin 2 recognize a harvest until  recognize a SEED-- something precious within  u God has enabled u 2 know, do or possess and sow.
     U are a Walking Warehouse of SEEDS.  Invest TIME  in the Secret Place--  your personal place of prayer.  Ask the Holy Spirit 2 show u what u have been given, supernaturally and naturally 2 plant into the lives of others.  Your Future is in your own hands.

     >  U can see something nobody else can see.
     >  Y already know something others do not know.
     >  U can solve problems others cannot solve.  Solving them is your SEED that brings any kind of harvest u desire.


     Millions have no idea what a SEED really is, so they never receive the harvest from it bcoz it goes unplanted and unsown.
     Discover the SEEDS u have already received from God and your Future can be anything u desire.