en-us Fri, 31 Aug 2007 12:14:40 -0400 A little over two thousand years ago they crucified Jesus on the cross, buried Him in a grave and thought that was the end of it. But, on the third day He arose and said, "Because I live, you will live also." Jesus was not just talking about breathing and merely existing. He was talking about living an abundant life. Not a barely get by life or a life filled with bad habits, addictions, lack and mediocrity. Because of the price He paid, we can live a life of victory. Some people are living with things that are far less than God's best. Let me encourage you today to draw the line in the sand and say, "That's it. This is a new day. I'm going to take hold of everything Christ died and rose again to accomplish." Make up your mind not to settle for partial victory. Rise up and have faith! As you do, God will help you overcome any obstacle standing in your way. Joel Osteen Wed, 02 May 2007 20:27:45 -0400 609914 http://www.lakewood.cc Too many people are sitting on the sidelines of life with no enthusiasm towards their future because they have made mistakes and experienced some setbacks. But, God is not looking for perfect people. If He were, we would all be disqualified. God is looking for people that have a heart that's right toward Him. If you have a heart that is seeking God and you wake up each day striving to do your best, then you do not have to live guilty and condemned. When those old thoughts come to mind saying, \"You don't deserve God's blessings,\" just respond with, \"You're exactly right. I know I don't deserve it, but that's what God's mercy is all about.\" The goodness of God will make miracles out of all your mistakes. Joel Osteen Wed, 02 May 2007 20:27:01 -0400 587789 http://www.lakewood.cc God wants you to burn up without burning out through supernatural living. Acts 1:8 says, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be my witnesses." When you begin to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit, you're character will become more like Jesus' character. You'll talk like Him, think like Him, and act like Him. Let your life be changed by His consuming fire and live the life God always intended for you to live. Marcos Witt Wed, 02 May 2007 20:26:59 -0400 587790