Joel Osteen

Joel Osteen - Be Comfortable With Who You Are

January 1, 2026 | 29:55

Joel and Victoria Osteen's message of unconditional love and unending hope reaches everyone across the world.

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Joel Osteen | Joel Osteen - Be Comfortable With Who You Are | January 1, 2026

(applause)
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(applause) well, god bless you. it's
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(applause) well, god bless you. it's always a joy to come into your
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Well, god bless you. it's always a joy to come into your homes. and if you're ever in
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Always a joy to come into your homes. and if you're ever in our area please stop by and be
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Homes. and if you're ever in our area please stop by and be a part of one of our services.
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Our area please stop by and be a part of one of our services. i promise you we'll make you
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A part of one of our services. i promise you we'll make you feel right at home. but thanks
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I promise you we'll make you feel right at home. but thanks so much for tuning in.
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Feel right at home. but thanks so much for tuning in. thank you again for coming out.
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So much for tuning in. thank you again for coming out. i like to start with something
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Thank you again for coming out. i like to start with something funny. i heard about this
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I like to start with something funny. i heard about this pastor. he found a dead mule on
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Funny. i heard about this pastor. he found a dead mule on the church grounds. he called
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Pastor. he found a dead mule on the church grounds. he called the health department and they
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The church grounds. he called the health department and they said they couldn't pick it up
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The health department and they said they couldn't pick it up without authorization from the
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Said they couldn't pick it up without authorization from the mayor. well, the mayor was
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Without authorization from the mayor. well, the mayor was known to be very rude and hard
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Mayor. well, the mayor was known to be very rude and hard to get along with. when the
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Known to be very rude and hard to get along with. when the pastor called, the mayor didn't
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To get along with. when the pastor called, the mayor didn't disappoint. he started ranting
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Pastor called, the mayor didn't disappoint. he started ranting and raving and finally said to
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Disappoint. he started ranting and raving and finally said to the pastor, "why are you even
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And raving and finally said to the pastor, "why are you even calling me? isn't it your job
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The pastor, "why are you even calling me? isn't it your job to bury the dead?" the pastor
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Calling me? isn't it your job to bury the dead?" the pastor prayed and asked god for the
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To bury the dead?" the pastor prayed and asked god for the right response. he said, "yes,
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Prayed and asked god for the right response. he said, "yes, mayor. it is my job to bury the
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Right response. he said, "yes, mayor. it is my job to bury the dead but i always like to
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Mayor. it is my job to bury the dead but i always like to notify the next of kin first."
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Dead but i always like to notify the next of kin first." (laughter)
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Notify the next of kin first." (laughter) hold up your bible. say it like
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(laughter) hold up your bible. say it like you mean it.
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Hold up your bible. say it like you mean it. this is my bible.
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You mean it. this is my bible. i am what it says i am.
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This is my bible. i am what it says i am. i have what it says i have.
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I am what it says i am. i have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do.
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I have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught the word
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I can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught the word of god.
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Today i will be taught the word of god. i boldly confess:
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Of god. i boldly confess: my mind is alert.
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I boldly confess: my mind is alert. my heart is receptive.
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My mind is alert. my heart is receptive. i will never be the same.
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My heart is receptive. i will never be the same. in jesus' name. god bless you.
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I will never be the same. in jesus' name. god bless you. i want to talk to you today
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In jesus' name. god bless you. i want to talk to you today about being comfortable with who
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I want to talk to you today about being comfortable with who you are. there's an underlying
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About being comfortable with who you are. there's an underlying pressure in our society to be
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You are. there's an underlying pressure in our society to be number one. if we're not the
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Pressure in our society to be number one. if we're not the best, the leader, the fastest,
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Number one. if we're not the best, the leader, the fastest, the most talented, the most
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Best, the leader, the fastest, the most talented, the most beautiful, the most successful,
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The most talented, the most beautiful, the most successful, then we don't feel good about
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Beautiful, the most successful, then we don't feel good about ourselves. we've got to work
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Then we don't feel good about ourselves. we've got to work harder. we've got to run
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Ourselves. we've got to work harder. we've got to run faster. a neighbor moves into a
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Harder. we've got to run faster. a neighbor moves into a new house. instead of being
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Faster. a neighbor moves into a new house. instead of being inspired we're intimidated
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New house. instead of being inspired we're intimidated thinking, "that's making me
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Inspired we're intimidated thinking, "that's making me look bad. i've got to keep up."
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Thinking, "that's making me look bad. i've got to keep up." a coworker gets a promotion.
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Look bad. i've got to keep up." a coworker gets a promotion. we feel like we're falling
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A coworker gets a promotion. we feel like we're falling behind. a friend is going to
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We feel like we're falling behind. a friend is going to europe on vacation. we're going
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Behind. a friend is going to europe on vacation. we're going to our grandmother's twelve
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Europe on vacation. we're going to our grandmother's twelve miles down the road. (laughter)
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To our grandmother's twelve miles down the road. (laughter) if we're not careful there is
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Miles down the road. (laughter) if we're not careful there is always something making us feel
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If we're not careful there is always something making us feel like we don't measure up. we're
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Always something making us feel like we don't measure up. we're not far enough along. as long
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Like we don't measure up. we're not far enough along. as long as you compare your situation
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Not far enough along. as long as you compare your situation to others you will never feel
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As you compare your situation to others you will never feel good about yourself because
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To others you will never feel good about yourself because there will always be somebody
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Good about yourself because there will always be somebody more talented, more beautiful,
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There will always be somebody more talented, more beautiful, more successful. you have to
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More talented, more beautiful, more successful. you have to realize you're not running
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More successful. you have to realize you're not running their race. you're running your
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Realize you're not running their race. you're running your race. you have a specific
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Their race. you're running your race. you have a specific assignment. god has given you
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Race. you have a specific assignment. god has given you exactly what you need for the
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Assignment. god has given you exactly what you need for the race that's been designed for
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Exactly what you need for the race that's been designed for you.
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Race that's been designed for you. a friend, a coworker, a
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You. a friend, a coworker, a relative, may seem to have a
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A friend, a coworker, a relative, may seem to have a more significant gift. they can
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Relative, may seem to have a more significant gift. they can outrun you, outperform you.
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More significant gift. they can outrun you, outperform you. that's okay. you're not
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Outrun you, outperform you. that's okay. you're not competing with them. they have
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That's okay. you're not competing with them. they have what they need for their
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Competing with them. they have what they need for their assignment. you have what you
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What they need for their assignment. you have what you need for your assignment.
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Assignment. you have what you need for your assignment. if you make the mistake of
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Need for your assignment. if you make the mistake of trying to keep up with them,
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If you make the mistake of trying to keep up with them, wondering, "why can't i sing
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Trying to keep up with them, wondering, "why can't i sing like that? why can't i be the
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Wondering, "why can't i sing like that? why can't i be the manager? when am i going to
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Like that? why can't i be the manager? when am i going to reach their level?"
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Manager? when am i going to reach their level?" if you're not content with your
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Reach their level?" if you're not content with your gift, comfortable with who god
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If you're not content with your gift, comfortable with who god made you to be then you'll go
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Gift, comfortable with who god made you to be then you'll go through life frustrated,
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Made you to be then you'll go through life frustrated, envious, thinking, "i wish i had
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Through life frustrated, envious, thinking, "i wish i had her looks. i wish i had his
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Envious, thinking, "i wish i had her looks. i wish i had his talent. i wish i owned their
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Her looks. i wish i had his talent. i wish i owned their business." no, if you had what
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Talent. i wish i owned their business." no, if you had what they have it wouldn't help you.
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Business." no, if you had what they have it wouldn't help you. it would hinder you. they have
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They have it wouldn't help you. it would hinder you. they have a different assignment. quit
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It would hinder you. they have a different assignment. quit trying to outperform someone
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A different assignment. quit trying to outperform someone and then you're going to feel
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Trying to outperform someone and then you're going to feel good about yourself.
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And then you're going to feel good about yourself. "soon as i move into their
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Good about yourself. "soon as i move into their neighborhood, as soon as my
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"soon as i move into their neighborhood, as soon as my business catches up to theirs,
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Neighborhood, as soon as my business catches up to theirs, soon as i get that promotion."
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Business catches up to theirs, soon as i get that promotion." no, one of the best things i've
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Soon as i get that promotion." no, one of the best things i've ever learned is to be
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No, one of the best things i've ever learned is to be comfortable with who god made
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Ever learned is to be comfortable with who god made me to be. i don't have to
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Comfortable with who god made me to be. i don't have to outperform you to feel good
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Me to be. i don't have to outperform you to feel good about myself. i don't have to
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Outperform you to feel good about myself. i don't have to out build you, outdrive you,
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About myself. i don't have to out build you, outdrive you, outrace you, out minister you,
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Out build you, outdrive you, outrace you, out minister you, out produce you. it's not about
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Outrace you, out minister you, out produce you. it's not about you. it's about becoming who
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Out produce you. it's not about you. it's about becoming who god made me to be. and i'm all
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You. it's about becoming who god made me to be. and i'm all for having goals, stretching,
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God made me to be. and i'm all for having goals, stretching, believing big. that's
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For having goals, stretching, believing big. that's important. but you have to
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Believing big. that's important. but you have to accept the gift that god has
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Important. but you have to accept the gift that god has given you. you shouldn't feel
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Accept the gift that god has given you. you shouldn't feel less than if someone seems to
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Given you. you shouldn't feel less than if someone seems to have a more significant gift.
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Less than if someone seems to have a more significant gift. it takes a secure person to say,
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Have a more significant gift. it takes a secure person to say, "i'm comfortable with who i am."
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It takes a secure person to say, "i'm comfortable with who i am." see, i realize i'm never going
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"i'm comfortable with who i am." see, i realize i'm never going to be able to minister like
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See, i realize i'm never going to be able to minister like t. d. jakes. but that's okay.
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To be able to minister like t. d. jakes. but that's okay. maybe one day he'll get better.
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T. d. jakes. but that's okay. maybe one day he'll get better. (laughter) but i hear these
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Maybe one day he'll get better. (laughter) but i hear these ministers. they have deep
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(laughter) but i hear these ministers. they have deep voices and they're great
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Ministers. they have deep voices and they're great orators. they can move the
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Voices and they're great orators. they can move the congregation with their words,
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Orators. they can move the congregation with their words, give you chill bumps and i get
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Congregation with their words, give you chill bumps and i get up here with my texas twang.
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Give you chill bumps and i get up here with my texas twang. (laughter) this is what i've
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Up here with my texas twang. (laughter) this is what i've been given. i can improve it. i
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(laughter) this is what i've been given. i can improve it. i can develop it. i can cultivate
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Been given. i can improve it. i can develop it. i can cultivate it but my voice is never going
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Can develop it. i can cultivate it but my voice is never going to sound like james earl jones.
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It but my voice is never going to sound like james earl jones. (laughter)
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To sound like james earl jones. (laughter) there is always going to be
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(laughter) there is always going to be somebody that can minister
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There is always going to be somebody that can minister better, further along, more
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Somebody that can minister better, further along, more experienced. but you know what?
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Better, further along, more experienced. but you know what? that doesn't bother me. i know
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Experienced. but you know what? that doesn't bother me. i know i have the gifts i need for my
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That doesn't bother me. i know i have the gifts i need for my assignment. (applause) here's
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I have the gifts i need for my assignment. (applause) here's the key. you don't have to have
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Assignment. (applause) here's the key. you don't have to have a great gift for god to use it
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The key. you don't have to have a great gift for god to use it in a great way. you know what
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A great gift for god to use it in a great way. you know what the gift david had that put him
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In a great way. you know what the gift david had that put him on the throne? it wasn't his
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The gift david had that put him on the throne? it wasn't his leadership skills. it wasn't
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On the throne? it wasn't his leadership skills. it wasn't his dynamic personality.
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Leadership skills. it wasn't his dynamic personality. it wasn't his ability to write
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His dynamic personality. it wasn't his ability to write and play music. it was his gift
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It wasn't his ability to write and play music. it was his gift to sling a rock. he was a
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And play music. it was his gift to sling a rock. he was a sharpshooter with a slingshot.
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To sling a rock. he was a sharpshooter with a slingshot. he could have thought, "oh
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Sharpshooter with a slingshot. he could have thought, "oh great. big deal. i'm good with
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He could have thought, "oh great. big deal. i'm good with a slingshot. this is not going
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Great. big deal. i'm good with a slingshot. this is not going to get me anywhere. i'm out in
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A slingshot. this is not going to get me anywhere. i'm out in the shepherd's fields, alone,
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To get me anywhere. i'm out in the shepherd's fields, alone, no people. just a bunch of
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The shepherd's fields, alone, no people. just a bunch of sheep."
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No people. just a bunch of sheep." but it was that slingshot, that
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Sheep." but it was that slingshot, that seemingly insignificant gift
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But it was that slingshot, that seemingly insignificant gift that enabled him to defeat
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Seemingly insignificant gift that enabled him to defeat goliath and eventually put him
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That enabled him to defeat goliath and eventually put him on the throne.
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Goliath and eventually put him on the throne. quit discounting the gift that
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On the throne. quit discounting the gift that god has given you. it may seem
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Quit discounting the gift that god has given you. it may seem insignificant. "i'm not as
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God has given you. it may seem insignificant. "i'm not as smart as my sister. not as
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Insignificant. "i'm not as smart as my sister. not as talented as my coworker. can't
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Smart as my sister. not as talented as my coworker. can't write the software like my
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Talented as my coworker. can't write the software like my colleague." maybe not but
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Write the software like my colleague." maybe not but there's something god has given
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Colleague." maybe not but there's something god has given you that's unique, something
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There's something god has given you that's unique, something that will propel you into your
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You that's unique, something that will propel you into your destiny, something that will
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That will propel you into your destiny, something that will cause you to leave your mark on
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Destiny, something that will cause you to leave your mark on this generation. don't believe
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Cause you to leave your mark on this generation. don't believe the lies that, "you're average.
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This generation. don't believe the lies that, "you're average. there's nothing special about
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The lies that, "you're average. there's nothing special about you. you don't have the
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There's nothing special about you. you don't have the personality like your cousin.
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You. you don't have the personality like your cousin. you don't have the talent like
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Personality like your cousin. you don't have the talent like your friend" no, but you've got
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You don't have the talent like your friend" no, but you've got a slingshot. it's not so much
00:06:31.214 --> 00:06:33.416
Your friend" no, but you've got a slingshot. it's not so much what you have. it's the
00:06:33.483 --> 00:06:35.251
A slingshot. it's not so much what you have. it's the anointing that god puts on it.
00:06:35.318 --> 00:06:38.221
What you have. it's the anointing that god puts on it. that slingshot, your gift, may
00:06:38.287 --> 00:06:40.890
Anointing that god puts on it. that slingshot, your gift, may seem ordinary but when god
00:06:40.957 --> 00:06:44.160
That slingshot, your gift, may seem ordinary but when god breathes on it you'll defeat a
00:06:44.227 --> 00:06:45.828
Seem ordinary but when god breathes on it you'll defeat a giant twice your size. you'll
00:06:45.895 --> 00:06:47.997
Breathes on it you'll defeat a giant twice your size. you'll be promoted beyond your talent.
00:06:48.064 --> 00:06:50.800
Giant twice your size. you'll be promoted beyond your talent. you'll go places where you
00:06:50.867 --> 00:06:52.368
Be promoted beyond your talent. you'll go places where you weren't qualified. you didn't
00:06:52.435 --> 00:06:54.070
You'll go places where you weren't qualified. you didn't have the experience. you
00:06:54.136 --> 00:06:55.471
Weren't qualified. you didn't have the experience. you weren't next in line but
00:06:55.538 --> 00:06:57.073
Have the experience. you weren't next in line but suddenly a door opened.
00:06:57.139 --> 00:06:59.141
Weren't next in line but suddenly a door opened. suddenly you defeated the giant.
00:06:59.208 --> 00:07:00.910
Suddenly a door opened. suddenly you defeated the giant. suddenly the compaq center was
00:07:00.977 --> 00:07:02.178
Suddenly you defeated the giant. suddenly the compaq center was yours. suddenly the dream comes
00:07:02.245 --> 00:07:03.779
Suddenly the compaq center was yours. suddenly the dream comes to pass. (applause)
00:07:03.846 --> 00:07:07.450
Yours. suddenly the dream comes to pass. (applause) but too often we look for
00:07:07.517 --> 00:07:08.918
To pass. (applause) but too often we look for titles and positions then we're
00:07:08.985 --> 00:07:10.720
But too often we look for titles and positions then we're going to feel good about
00:07:10.786 --> 00:07:11.888
Titles and positions then we're going to feel good about ourselves. "when i make it to
00:07:11.954 --> 00:07:13.322
Going to feel good about ourselves. "when i make it to sales manager, when i get on
00:07:13.389 --> 00:07:15.725
Ourselves. "when i make it to sales manager, when i get on the varsity cheerleading squad,
00:07:15.791 --> 00:07:18.160
Sales manager, when i get on the varsity cheerleading squad, when i'm the head usher, the
00:07:18.227 --> 00:07:19.829
The varsity cheerleading squad, when i'm the head usher, the senior partner, the lead
00:07:19.896 --> 00:07:21.631
When i'm the head usher, the senior partner, the lead supervisor." now that's fine.
00:07:21.697 --> 00:07:23.299
Senior partner, the lead supervisor." now that's fine. nothing wrong with titles but
00:07:23.366 --> 00:07:25.034
Supervisor." now that's fine. nothing wrong with titles but you don't need a title to do
00:07:25.101 --> 00:07:26.903
Nothing wrong with titles but you don't need a title to do what god has called you to do.
00:07:26.969 --> 00:07:29.038
You don't need a title to do what god has called you to do. don't wait for people to approve
00:07:29.105 --> 00:07:30.640
What god has called you to do. don't wait for people to approve you, affirm you, validate you.
00:07:30.706 --> 00:07:33.576
Don't wait for people to approve you, affirm you, validate you. use your gift and the title will
00:07:33.643 --> 00:07:35.778
You, affirm you, validate you. use your gift and the title will come. if david would have
00:07:35.845 --> 00:07:38.381
Use your gift and the title will come. if david would have waited for a title we wouldn't
00:07:38.447 --> 00:07:40.049
Come. if david would have waited for a title we wouldn't be talking about him today.
00:07:40.116 --> 00:07:42.618
Waited for a title we wouldn't be talking about him today. when he went out to face goliath
00:07:42.685 --> 00:07:44.654
Be talking about him today. when he went out to face goliath the whole army was watching him.
00:07:44.720 --> 00:07:47.089
When he went out to face goliath the whole army was watching him. and what's interesting is david
00:07:47.156 --> 00:07:48.925
The whole army was watching him. and what's interesting is david wasn't a general. he wasn't a
00:07:48.991 --> 00:07:51.527
And what's interesting is david wasn't a general. he wasn't a corporal. he wasn't a sergeant.
00:07:51.594 --> 00:07:53.996
Wasn't a general. he wasn't a corporal. he wasn't a sergeant. he wasn't even enlisted. he
00:07:54.063 --> 00:07:56.666
Corporal. he wasn't a sergeant. he wasn't even enlisted. he didn't have a title, a name
00:07:56.732 --> 00:07:58.134
He wasn't even enlisted. he didn't have a title, a name badge, a uniform, any
00:07:58.200 --> 00:08:00.336
Didn't have a title, a name badge, a uniform, any credentials. he could have
00:08:00.403 --> 00:08:02.305
Badge, a uniform, any credentials. he could have said, "i can't do anything
00:08:02.371 --> 00:08:04.073
Credentials. he could have said, "i can't do anything great. i don't have a position.
00:08:04.140 --> 00:08:05.808
Said, "i can't do anything great. i don't have a position. nobody is celebrating me.
00:08:05.875 --> 00:08:08.277
Great. i don't have a position. nobody is celebrating me. nobody is validating my gifts."
00:08:08.344 --> 00:08:10.646
Nobody is celebrating me. nobody is validating my gifts." in fact, it was just the
00:08:10.713 --> 00:08:12.181
Nobody is validating my gifts." in fact, it was just the opposite. people were telling
00:08:12.248 --> 00:08:13.616
In fact, it was just the opposite. people were telling him how he was not qualified,
00:08:13.683 --> 00:08:16.152
Opposite. people were telling him how he was not qualified, how he was too small, how he
00:08:16.218 --> 00:08:17.920
Him how he was not qualified, how he was too small, how he was going to get hurt. that
00:08:17.987 --> 00:08:19.722
How he was too small, how he was going to get hurt. that didn't bother david. his
00:08:19.789 --> 00:08:21.223
Was going to get hurt. that didn't bother david. his attitude was, "i don't need a
00:08:21.290 --> 00:08:22.725
Didn't bother david. his attitude was, "i don't need a title. i don't need a position.
00:08:22.792 --> 00:08:25.995
Attitude was, "i don't need a title. i don't need a position. you didn't call me and you don't
00:08:26.062 --> 00:08:27.863
Title. i don't need a position. you didn't call me and you don't have to approve me. god called
00:08:27.930 --> 00:08:30.132
You didn't call me and you don't have to approve me. god called me. he gave me this gift."
00:08:30.199 --> 00:08:32.234
Have to approve me. god called me. he gave me this gift." (applause)
00:08:32.301 --> 00:08:33.736
Me. he gave me this gift." (applause) "it may seem small or
00:08:33.803 --> 00:08:35.171
(applause) "it may seem small or insignificant to you but i'm not
00:08:35.237 --> 00:08:36.973
"it may seem small or insignificant to you but i'm not here to impress you. i'm not
00:08:37.039 --> 00:08:38.741
Insignificant to you but i'm not here to impress you. i'm not here to please you. i'm here to
00:08:38.808 --> 00:08:40.376
Here to impress you. i'm not here to please you. i'm here to fulfill my destiny." he went
00:08:40.443 --> 00:08:43.079
Here to please you. i'm here to fulfill my destiny." he went out and defeated goliath. in a
00:08:43.145 --> 00:08:45.648
Fulfill my destiny." he went out and defeated goliath. in a few years they gave him a
00:08:45.715 --> 00:08:46.983
Out and defeated goliath. in a few years they gave him a title; king of israel. use your
00:08:47.049 --> 00:08:49.852
Few years they gave him a title; king of israel. use your gifts and the titles will come.
00:08:49.919 --> 00:08:53.155
Title; king of israel. use your gifts and the titles will come. "well, joel. as soon as they
00:08:53.222 --> 00:08:54.390
Gifts and the titles will come. "well, joel. as soon as they crown me king of the office
00:08:54.457 --> 00:08:56.392
"well, joel. as soon as they crown me king of the office then i'll start being my best."
00:08:56.459 --> 00:08:58.561
Crown me king of the office then i'll start being my best." "as soon as they make me the
00:08:58.628 --> 00:08:59.695
Then i'll start being my best." "as soon as they make me the head usher then i'll show up
00:08:59.762 --> 00:09:01.397
"as soon as they make me the head usher then i'll show up early and give it my all."
00:09:01.464 --> 00:09:03.332
Head usher then i'll show up early and give it my all." no, it works the other way
00:09:03.399 --> 00:09:04.700
Early and give it my all." no, it works the other way around. you've got to show them
00:09:04.767 --> 00:09:06.035
No, it works the other way around. you've got to show them what you've got then the
00:09:06.102 --> 00:09:07.303
Around. you've got to show them what you've got then the approval, then the recognition,
00:09:07.370 --> 00:09:09.038
What you've got then the approval, then the recognition, then the reward will come.
00:09:09.105 --> 00:09:11.207
Approval, then the recognition, then the reward will come. (applause) when my father was
00:09:11.273 --> 00:09:12.842
Then the reward will come. (applause) when my father was seventeen years old he gave his
00:09:12.908 --> 00:09:14.910
(applause) when my father was seventeen years old he gave his life to christ, the first one
00:09:14.977 --> 00:09:16.245
Seventeen years old he gave his life to christ, the first one in the family. he knew that he
00:09:16.312 --> 00:09:18.848
Life to christ, the first one in the family. he knew that he was called to preach but the
00:09:18.914 --> 00:09:20.082
In the family. he knew that he was called to preach but the problem was they were very
00:09:20.149 --> 00:09:21.951
Was called to preach but the problem was they were very poor. they lost everything
00:09:22.018 --> 00:09:24.520
Problem was they were very poor. they lost everything during the great depression,
00:09:24.587 --> 00:09:26.122
Poor. they lost everything during the great depression, barely had enough food, didn't
00:09:26.188 --> 00:09:27.723
During the great depression, barely had enough food, didn't have any money. he couldn't
00:09:27.790 --> 00:09:29.225
Barely had enough food, didn't have any money. he couldn't afford to go to college.
00:09:29.291 --> 00:09:30.559
Have any money. he couldn't afford to go to college. he didn't have a position, no
00:09:30.626 --> 00:09:32.261
Afford to go to college. he didn't have a position, no title, no denomination backing
00:09:32.328 --> 00:09:34.864
He didn't have a position, no title, no denomination backing him up, no family saying, "john,
00:09:34.930 --> 00:09:37.133
Title, no denomination backing him up, no family saying, "john, follow your dreams. do what's
00:09:37.199 --> 00:09:38.934
Him up, no family saying, "john, follow your dreams. do what's in your heart." his family told
00:09:39.001 --> 00:09:41.070
Follow your dreams. do what's in your heart." his family told him, "john, you better stay
00:09:41.137 --> 00:09:42.938
In your heart." his family told him, "john, you better stay here on the farm with us and
00:09:43.005 --> 00:09:44.473
Him, "john, you better stay here on the farm with us and pick cotton. you're going to
00:09:44.540 --> 00:09:46.008
Here on the farm with us and pick cotton. you're going to get out there and fail."
00:09:46.075 --> 00:09:48.244
Pick cotton. you're going to get out there and fail." daddy could have thought,
00:09:48.310 --> 00:09:49.178
Get out there and fail." daddy could have thought, "i feel this calling. i know i
00:09:49.245 --> 00:09:51.313
Daddy could have thought, "i feel this calling. i know i have something to offer if
00:09:51.380 --> 00:09:52.815
"i feel this calling. i know i have something to offer if somebody was just behind me."
00:09:52.882 --> 00:09:56.152
Have something to offer if somebody was just behind me." no, he didn't wait for a title,
00:09:56.218 --> 00:09:57.353
Somebody was just behind me." no, he didn't wait for a title, a position. he didn't wait for
00:09:57.420 --> 00:09:58.621
No, he didn't wait for a title, a position. he didn't wait for people to validate him.
00:09:58.688 --> 00:10:00.856
A position. he didn't wait for people to validate him. at seventeen he started
00:10:00.923 --> 00:10:02.658
People to validate him. at seventeen he started hitchhiking to different towns
00:10:02.725 --> 00:10:04.694
At seventeen he started hitchhiking to different towns to minister in the seniors
00:10:04.760 --> 00:10:06.462
Hitchhiking to different towns to minister in the seniors homes, in the prisons, on the
00:10:06.529 --> 00:10:08.297
To minister in the seniors homes, in the prisons, on the street corners. he used what he
00:10:08.364 --> 00:10:10.332
Homes, in the prisons, on the street corners. he used what he had. it didn't seem like much.
00:10:10.399 --> 00:10:12.935
Street corners. he used what he had. it didn't seem like much. (applause)
00:10:13.002 --> 00:10:14.470
Had. it didn't seem like much. (applause) compared to other ministers
00:10:14.537 --> 00:10:16.172
(applause) compared to other ministers that had been to seminary and
00:10:16.238 --> 00:10:19.208
Compared to other ministers that had been to seminary and had training. he would have
00:10:19.275 --> 00:10:21.844
That had been to seminary and had training. he would have been considered insignificant,
00:10:21.911 --> 00:10:22.712
Had training. he would have been considered insignificant, unqualified, no experience.
00:10:22.778 --> 00:10:25.281
Been considered insignificant, unqualified, no experience. but you can't wait for people's
00:10:25.347 --> 00:10:26.482
Unqualified, no experience. but you can't wait for people's approval to do what god has
00:10:26.549 --> 00:10:28.150
But you can't wait for people's approval to do what god has called you to do. (applause)
00:10:28.217 --> 00:10:30.820
Approval to do what god has called you to do. (applause) what you have may seem small.
00:10:30.886 --> 00:10:33.923
Called you to do. (applause) what you have may seem small. you could feel intimidated
00:10:33.989 --> 00:10:35.658
What you have may seem small. you could feel intimidated thinking that you don't have the
00:10:35.725 --> 00:10:36.659
You could feel intimidated thinking that you don't have the qualifications, the title, the
00:10:36.726 --> 00:10:38.627
Thinking that you don't have the qualifications, the title, the position. that's okay. neither
00:10:38.694 --> 00:10:40.696
Qualifications, the title, the position. that's okay. neither did david. neither did my
00:10:40.763 --> 00:10:42.665
Position. that's okay. neither did david. neither did my father. if you'll use what you
00:10:42.732 --> 00:10:44.767
Did david. neither did my father. if you'll use what you have god will breathe on it.
00:10:44.834 --> 00:10:47.803
Father. if you'll use what you have god will breathe on it. his anointing on that simple
00:10:47.870 --> 00:10:49.572
Have god will breathe on it. his anointing on that simple gift will cause you to step into
00:10:49.638 --> 00:10:51.841
His anointing on that simple gift will cause you to step into the fullness of your destiny.
00:10:51.907 --> 00:10:54.310
Gift will cause you to step into the fullness of your destiny. in the scripture there was a
00:10:54.376 --> 00:10:55.711
The fullness of your destiny. in the scripture there was a little boy. all he had was a
00:10:55.778 --> 00:10:57.513
In the scripture there was a little boy. all he had was a lunch; five loaves of bread,
00:10:57.580 --> 00:10:59.915
Little boy. all he had was a lunch; five loaves of bread, two fish. nothing much. not
00:10:59.982 --> 00:11:02.418
Lunch; five loaves of bread, two fish. nothing much. not very significant. yet, when
00:11:02.485 --> 00:11:04.720
Two fish. nothing much. not very significant. yet, when thousands of people were hungry
00:11:04.787 --> 00:11:06.655
Very significant. yet, when thousands of people were hungry jesus took his lunch,
00:11:06.722 --> 00:11:08.824
Thousands of people were hungry jesus took his lunch, multiplied it, fed the whole
00:11:08.891 --> 00:11:10.426
Jesus took his lunch, multiplied it, fed the whole crowd. think about this. the
00:11:10.493 --> 00:11:15.464
Multiplied it, fed the whole crowd. think about this. the little boy's mother got up
00:11:15.531 --> 00:11:16.365
Crowd. think about this. the little boy's mother got up early that morning to make the
00:11:16.432 --> 00:11:17.600
Little boy's mother got up early that morning to make the lunch. she baked the bread.
00:11:17.666 --> 00:11:19.702
Early that morning to make the lunch. she baked the bread. she cooked the fish. she went
00:11:19.769 --> 00:11:22.204
Lunch. she baked the bread. she cooked the fish. she went out and picked some fruit off
00:11:22.271 --> 00:11:23.606
She cooked the fish. she went out and picked some fruit off the tree, dug up some
00:11:23.672 --> 00:11:25.107
Out and picked some fruit off the tree, dug up some vegetables out of the ground.
00:11:25.174 --> 00:11:27.643
The tree, dug up some vegetables out of the ground. she could have been considered
00:11:27.710 --> 00:11:29.111
Vegetables out of the ground. she could have been considered insignificant. she was a
00:11:29.178 --> 00:11:31.080
She could have been considered insignificant. she was a homemaker raising a child.
00:11:31.147 --> 00:11:34.416
Insignificant. she was a homemaker raising a child. other people were out doing
00:11:34.483 --> 00:11:36.385
Homemaker raising a child. other people were out doing more exciting things, being
00:11:36.452 --> 00:11:37.753
Other people were out doing more exciting things, being celebrated, making a splash.
00:11:37.820 --> 00:11:40.956
More exciting things, being celebrated, making a splash. if she wouldn't have been
00:11:41.023 --> 00:11:42.758
Celebrated, making a splash. if she wouldn't have been comfortable with who she was,
00:11:42.825 --> 00:11:44.693
If she wouldn't have been comfortable with who she was, accepting her assignment, secure
00:11:44.760 --> 00:11:47.096
Comfortable with who she was, accepting her assignment, secure in her gifts, she would have
00:11:47.163 --> 00:11:49.365
Accepting her assignment, secure in her gifts, she would have been out competing, trying to
00:11:49.431 --> 00:11:50.966
In her gifts, she would have been out competing, trying to outperform others, thinking,
00:11:51.033 --> 00:11:53.435
Been out competing, trying to outperform others, thinking, "i'm falling behind. they're
00:11:53.502 --> 00:11:54.837
Outperform others, thinking, "i'm falling behind. they're making me look bad. i'm just
00:11:54.904 --> 00:11:56.405
"i'm falling behind. they're making me look bad. i'm just making a lunch. i don't have an
00:11:56.472 --> 00:11:58.073
Making me look bad. i'm just making a lunch. i don't have an important title." no, titles
00:11:58.140 --> 00:12:01.443
Making a lunch. i don't have an important title." no, titles don't bring fulfillment.
00:12:01.510 --> 00:12:03.946
Important title." no, titles don't bring fulfillment. keeping up with your neighbors
00:12:04.013 --> 00:12:05.314
Don't bring fulfillment. keeping up with your neighbors doesn't bring happiness. trying
00:12:05.381 --> 00:12:07.349
Keeping up with your neighbors doesn't bring happiness. trying to impress all your friends
00:12:07.416 --> 00:12:09.251
Doesn't bring happiness. trying to impress all your friends will make your life miserable
00:12:09.318 --> 00:12:11.220
To impress all your friends will make your life miserable but running your race,
00:12:11.287 --> 00:12:13.489
Will make your life miserable but running your race, understanding your assignment,
00:12:13.556 --> 00:12:15.558
But running your race, understanding your assignment, being comfortable with who god
00:12:15.624 --> 00:12:17.026
Understanding your assignment, being comfortable with who god made you to be, that's what
00:12:17.092 --> 00:12:18.727
Being comfortable with who god made you to be, that's what brings true fulfillment. we
00:12:18.794 --> 00:12:21.130
Made you to be, that's what brings true fulfillment. we hear a lot about the little boy
00:12:21.197 --> 00:12:23.232
Brings true fulfillment. we hear a lot about the little boy being willing to give the lunch
00:12:23.299 --> 00:12:25.201
Hear a lot about the little boy being willing to give the lunch but it all started when his
00:12:25.267 --> 00:12:26.836
Being willing to give the lunch but it all started when his mother took time to make
00:12:26.902 --> 00:12:28.370
But it all started when his mother took time to make the lunch. she used her gift
00:12:28.437 --> 00:12:31.240
Mother took time to make the lunch. she used her gift that seemed small. just making
00:12:31.307 --> 00:12:33.776
The lunch. she used her gift that seemed small. just making a lunch. but god took the
00:12:33.843 --> 00:12:35.744
That seemed small. just making a lunch. but god took the lunch, multiplied it, fed
00:12:35.811 --> 00:12:37.546
A lunch. but god took the lunch, multiplied it, fed thousands. we're still talking
00:12:37.613 --> 00:12:39.548
Lunch, multiplied it, fed thousands. we're still talking about it many years later.
00:12:39.615 --> 00:12:41.417
Thousands. we're still talking about it many years later. see, we put so much emphasis on
00:12:41.483 --> 00:12:43.085
About it many years later. see, we put so much emphasis on rising to the top, in being the
00:12:43.152 --> 00:12:44.920
See, we put so much emphasis on rising to the top, in being the leader. and yes, i believe in
00:12:44.987 --> 00:12:46.822
Rising to the top, in being the leader. and yes, i believe in excelling and having big gifts
00:12:46.889 --> 00:12:49.758
Leader. and yes, i believe in excelling and having big gifts and big dreams but i also know
00:12:49.825 --> 00:12:53.062
Excelling and having big gifts and big dreams but i also know that everyone can't be the
00:12:53.128 --> 00:12:54.763
And big dreams but i also know that everyone can't be the leader. everyone can't run the
00:12:54.830 --> 00:12:57.166
That everyone can't be the leader. everyone can't run the company. everyone can't be on
00:12:57.233 --> 00:12:59.401
Leader. everyone can't run the company. everyone can't be on the platform. somebody has to
00:12:59.468 --> 00:13:01.237
Company. everyone can't be on the platform. somebody has to open the doors. somebody has to
00:13:01.303 --> 00:13:03.239
The platform. somebody has to open the doors. somebody has to play the music. somebody has to
00:13:03.305 --> 00:13:05.474
Open the doors. somebody has to play the music. somebody has to show people where to sit, where
00:13:05.541 --> 00:13:07.243
Play the music. somebody has to show people where to sit, where to park. the beauty of our god
00:13:07.309 --> 00:13:09.044
Show people where to sit, where to park. the beauty of our god is he has given us all an
00:13:09.111 --> 00:13:11.146
To park. the beauty of our god is he has given us all an assignment. every one of us has
00:13:11.213 --> 00:13:13.949
Is he has given us all an assignment. every one of us has a specific gift. a specific
00:13:14.016 --> 00:13:15.818
Assignment. every one of us has a specific gift. a specific purpose.
00:13:15.885 --> 00:13:17.853
A specific gift. a specific purpose. think about this. who was more
00:13:17.920 --> 00:13:19.688
Purpose. think about this. who was more important? the little boy with
00:13:19.755 --> 00:13:21.457
Think about this. who was more important? the little boy with the lunch or the mother that
00:13:21.523 --> 00:13:23.158
Important? the little boy with the lunch or the mother that made the lunch? without the
00:13:23.225 --> 00:13:25.694
The lunch or the mother that made the lunch? without the mother we wouldn't be talking
00:13:25.761 --> 00:13:27.296
Made the lunch? without the mother we wouldn't be talking about the miracle. who is more
00:13:27.363 --> 00:13:29.365
Mother we wouldn't be talking about the miracle. who is more important? me being up here in
00:13:29.431 --> 00:13:31.000
About the miracle. who is more important? me being up here in front of all of you or is the
00:13:31.066 --> 00:13:32.902
Important? me being up here in front of all of you or is the most important person really
00:13:32.968 --> 00:13:35.237
Front of all of you or is the most important person really the ones that open the
00:13:35.304 --> 00:13:36.505
Most important person really the ones that open the building? without them we
00:13:36.572 --> 00:13:38.173
The ones that open the building? without them we couldn't get in. or is it the
00:13:38.240 --> 00:13:39.775
Building? without them we couldn't get in. or is it the ones that turned on the lights,
00:13:39.842 --> 00:13:41.610
Couldn't get in. or is it the ones that turned on the lights, the sound system, the cameras?
00:13:41.677 --> 00:13:43.779
Ones that turned on the lights, the sound system, the cameras? or perhaps the ones that paid
00:13:43.846 --> 00:13:44.847
The sound system, the cameras? or perhaps the ones that paid the bills during the week? or
00:13:44.914 --> 00:13:46.982
Or perhaps the ones that paid the bills during the week? or maybe it's the ones that poured
00:13:47.049 --> 00:13:48.350
The bills during the week? or maybe it's the ones that poured the foundation some 40 years
00:13:48.417 --> 00:13:50.219
Maybe it's the ones that poured the foundation some 40 years ago and built the beautiful
00:13:50.286 --> 00:13:51.320
The foundation some 40 years ago and built the beautiful facility. or maybe it's the
00:13:51.387 --> 00:13:53.122
Ago and built the beautiful facility. or maybe it's the ones that have supported the
00:13:53.188 --> 00:13:55.324
Facility. or maybe it's the ones that have supported the ministry down through the
00:13:55.391 --> 00:13:56.926
Ones that have supported the ministry down through the years. many of you. (applause)
00:13:56.992 --> 00:13:59.762
Ministry down through the years. many of you. (applause) here's the point. the answer is
00:13:59.828 --> 00:14:01.563
Years. many of you. (applause) here's the point. the answer is obviously they're all equally
00:14:01.630 --> 00:14:03.165
Here's the point. the answer is obviously they're all equally important. without one the
00:14:03.232 --> 00:14:05.234
Obviously they're all equally important. without one the whole thing wouldn't function
00:14:05.301 --> 00:14:07.636
Important. without one the whole thing wouldn't function properly. be secure enough to
00:14:07.703 --> 00:14:09.838
Whole thing wouldn't function properly. be secure enough to play your role. we look at
00:14:09.905 --> 00:14:12.374
Properly. be secure enough to play your role. we look at who's in front, who's getting
00:14:12.441 --> 00:14:13.876
Play your role. we look at who's in front, who's getting the credit, the recognition.
00:14:13.943 --> 00:14:16.378
Who's in front, who's getting the credit, the recognition. they're the leader. a lot of
00:14:16.445 --> 00:14:18.013
The credit, the recognition. they're the leader. a lot of times we look up to them,
00:14:18.080 --> 00:14:19.381
They're the leader. a lot of times we look up to them, admire them. that's where we
00:14:19.448 --> 00:14:20.616
Times we look up to them, admire them. that's where we want to be but if that's not
00:14:20.683 --> 00:14:22.318
Admire them. that's where we want to be but if that's not where we're called to be, it's
00:14:22.384 --> 00:14:24.320
Want to be but if that's not where we're called to be, it's not where we're gifted, if it's
00:14:24.386 --> 00:14:26.255
Where we're called to be, it's not where we're gifted, if it's not a part of our assignment
00:14:26.322 --> 00:14:28.390
Not where we're gifted, if it's not a part of our assignment then were going to be
00:14:28.457 --> 00:14:29.959
Not a part of our assignment then were going to be frustrated because it's not
00:14:30.025 --> 00:14:31.427
Then were going to be frustrated because it's not happening. if we do get there,
00:14:31.493 --> 00:14:33.829
Frustrated because it's not happening. if we do get there, we'll be frustrated trying to
00:14:33.896 --> 00:14:35.664
Happening. if we do get there, we'll be frustrated trying to keep ourselves there because if
00:14:35.731 --> 00:14:38.000
We'll be frustrated trying to keep ourselves there because if you promote yourself,
00:14:38.067 --> 00:14:39.668
Keep ourselves there because if you promote yourself, manipulate your way into a
00:14:39.735 --> 00:14:41.470
You promote yourself, manipulate your way into a position, then you will have to
00:14:41.537 --> 00:14:43.172
Manipulate your way into a position, then you will have to constantly work to try to stay
00:14:43.238 --> 00:14:45.708
Position, then you will have to constantly work to try to stay in that position.
00:14:45.774 --> 00:14:47.176
Constantly work to try to stay in that position. when you're not competing, not
00:14:47.242 --> 00:14:48.811
In that position. when you're not competing, not comparing, not trying to be
00:14:48.877 --> 00:14:51.013
When you're not competing, not comparing, not trying to be something that you're not, life
00:14:51.080 --> 00:14:52.781
Comparing, not trying to be something that you're not, life gets a lot more free. it takes
00:14:52.848 --> 00:14:54.984
Something that you're not, life gets a lot more free. it takes all the pressure off. and yes,
00:14:55.050 --> 00:14:57.086
Gets a lot more free. it takes all the pressure off. and yes, i realize there are some
00:14:57.152 --> 00:14:58.854
All the pressure off. and yes, i realize there are some positions that carry more
00:14:58.921 --> 00:15:00.556
I realize there are some positions that carry more weight and more importance but
00:15:00.622 --> 00:15:02.157
Positions that carry more weight and more importance but in god's eyes the usher is just
00:15:02.224 --> 00:15:05.194
Weight and more importance but in god's eyes the usher is just as important as the pastor.
00:15:05.260 --> 00:15:06.729
In god's eyes the usher is just as important as the pastor. the people that clean the
00:15:06.795 --> 00:15:07.663
As important as the pastor. the people that clean the building just as important as
00:15:07.730 --> 00:15:08.897
The people that clean the building just as important as the people that own the
00:15:08.964 --> 00:15:09.965
Building just as important as the people that own the building. secretary just as
00:15:10.032 --> 00:15:11.300
The people that own the building. secretary just as important as the supervisor.
00:15:11.367 --> 00:15:13.702
Building. secretary just as important as the supervisor. god is not going to judge you
00:15:13.769 --> 00:15:16.672
Important as the supervisor. god is not going to judge you based on your neighbor's gift or
00:15:16.739 --> 00:15:19.041
God is not going to judge you based on your neighbor's gift or your brother's gift or by how
00:15:19.108 --> 00:15:21.110
Based on your neighbor's gift or your brother's gift or by how high you rose in the company.
00:15:21.176 --> 00:15:23.345
Your brother's gift or by how high you rose in the company. he is going to judge you based
00:15:23.412 --> 00:15:24.847
High you rose in the company. he is going to judge you based on the assignment that he has
00:15:24.913 --> 00:15:26.715
He is going to judge you based on the assignment that he has given you. did you run your
00:15:26.782 --> 00:15:28.417
On the assignment that he has given you. did you run your race? not did you outperform
00:15:28.484 --> 00:15:31.553
Given you. did you run your race? not did you outperform your neighbor, were you more
00:15:31.620 --> 00:15:33.589
Race? not did you outperform your neighbor, were you more successful than your cousin, did
00:15:33.655 --> 00:15:35.724
Your neighbor, were you more successful than your cousin, did you get more credit, more
00:15:35.791 --> 00:15:36.992
Successful than your cousin, did you get more credit, more recognition than your colleague?
00:15:37.059 --> 00:15:39.495
You get more credit, more recognition than your colleague? you're not competing with them.
00:15:39.561 --> 00:15:41.497
Recognition than your colleague? you're not competing with them. they're running a different
00:15:41.563 --> 00:15:42.564
You're not competing with them. they're running a different race. god is going to say to
00:15:42.631 --> 00:15:44.733
They're running a different race. god is going to say to esther, "did you have the
00:15:44.800 --> 00:15:46.468
Race. god is going to say to esther, "did you have the courage to step up and save the
00:15:46.535 --> 00:15:48.137
Esther, "did you have the courage to step up and save the nation like i gifted you to?"
00:15:48.203 --> 00:15:51.373
Courage to step up and save the nation like i gifted you to?" he is going to say to the little
00:15:51.440 --> 00:15:52.741
Nation like i gifted you to?" he is going to say to the little boy's mother, "did you get up
00:15:52.808 --> 00:15:54.410
He is going to say to the little boy's mother, "did you get up early and make the lunch like i
00:15:54.476 --> 00:15:56.011
Boy's mother, "did you get up early and make the lunch like i gifted you to?" two different
00:15:56.078 --> 00:15:58.881
Early and make the lunch like i gifted you to?" two different assignments. two different
00:15:58.947 --> 00:16:00.482
Gifted you to?" two different assignments. two different giftings. god is not going to
00:16:00.549 --> 00:16:02.484
Assignments. two different giftings. god is not going to compare. "oh, esther. i'm
00:16:02.551 --> 00:16:04.153
Giftings. god is not going to compare. "oh, esther. i'm prouder of you. you did so much
00:16:04.219 --> 00:16:06.021
Compare. "oh, esther. i'm prouder of you. you did so much more." to the mother, "all you
00:16:06.088 --> 00:16:07.890
Prouder of you. you did so much more." to the mother, "all you did was make lunch? lady, you
00:16:07.956 --> 00:16:09.591
More." to the mother, "all you did was make lunch? lady, you need to get with it." no, it's
00:16:09.658 --> 00:16:11.093
Did was make lunch? lady, you need to get with it." no, it's all going to be depending, "did
00:16:11.160 --> 00:16:13.228
Need to get with it." no, it's all going to be depending, "did you fulfill your assignment?"
00:16:13.295 --> 00:16:16.432
All going to be depending, "did you fulfill your assignment?" i went to an indy car race not
00:16:16.498 --> 00:16:17.466
You fulfill your assignment?" i went to an indy car race not long ago. the racecars are
00:16:17.533 --> 00:16:19.968
I went to an indy car race not long ago. the racecars are incredibly sleek. they're low
00:16:20.035 --> 00:16:22.538
Long ago. the racecars are incredibly sleek. they're low to the ground, extremely
00:16:22.604 --> 00:16:24.273
Incredibly sleek. they're low to the ground, extremely aerodynamic. they've got these
00:16:24.339 --> 00:16:26.542
To the ground, extremely aerodynamic. they've got these huge engines. they can travel
00:16:26.608 --> 00:16:28.811
Aerodynamic. they've got these huge engines. they can travel 200 miles an hour on a
00:16:28.877 --> 00:16:31.113
Huge engines. they can travel 200 miles an hour on a straightaway, take a curve at
00:16:31.180 --> 00:16:33.015
200 miles an hour on a straightaway, take a curve at over a hundred miles an hour.
00:16:33.082 --> 00:16:35.884
Straightaway, take a curve at over a hundred miles an hour. but in spite of their strengths
00:16:35.951 --> 00:16:37.719
Over a hundred miles an hour. but in spite of their strengths they have weaknesses. they only
00:16:37.786 --> 00:16:39.321
But in spite of their strengths they have weaknesses. they only hold one person. the dash, the
00:16:39.388 --> 00:16:42.057
They have weaknesses. they only hold one person. the dash, the seats, it's all metal. there's
00:16:42.124 --> 00:16:44.626
Hold one person. the dash, the seats, it's all metal. there's no luxury, no air conditioning.
00:16:44.693 --> 00:16:47.863
Seats, it's all metal. there's no luxury, no air conditioning. it's because it's designed for a
00:16:47.930 --> 00:16:49.264
No luxury, no air conditioning. it's because it's designed for a specific purpose. victoria and
00:16:49.331 --> 00:16:51.700
It's because it's designed for a specific purpose. victoria and i have an suv at home, a
00:16:51.767 --> 00:16:54.336
Specific purpose. victoria and i have an suv at home, a suburban. it's big, holds eight
00:16:54.403 --> 00:16:56.738
I have an suv at home, a suburban. it's big, holds eight people. we can put our bikes in
00:16:56.805 --> 00:16:59.041
Suburban. it's big, holds eight people. we can put our bikes in the back, all kinds of luggage.
00:16:59.108 --> 00:17:01.810
People. we can put our bikes in the back, all kinds of luggage. you sit up high like you're the
00:17:01.877 --> 00:17:03.045
The back, all kinds of luggage. you sit up high like you're the king of the road. but if we
00:17:03.112 --> 00:17:04.947
You sit up high like you're the king of the road. but if we took our suburban out to the
00:17:05.013 --> 00:17:06.982
King of the road. but if we took our suburban out to the indy track to race those other
00:17:07.049 --> 00:17:08.851
Took our suburban out to the indy track to race those other cars; it wouldn't have a
00:17:08.917 --> 00:17:10.552
Indy track to race those other cars; it wouldn't have a chance. if we took a curve a
00:17:10.619 --> 00:17:13.188
Cars; it wouldn't have a chance. if we took a curve a hundred miles an hour in our
00:17:13.255 --> 00:17:14.590
Chance. if we took a curve a hundred miles an hour in our suv we'd be hearing the angels
00:17:14.656 --> 00:17:16.291
Hundred miles an hour in our suv we'd be hearing the angels sing. (laughter) it couldn't
00:17:16.358 --> 00:17:18.627
Suv we'd be hearing the angels sing. (laughter) it couldn't handle it. why? it's competing
00:17:18.694 --> 00:17:20.629
Sing. (laughter) it couldn't handle it. why? it's competing in a race it was never designed
00:17:20.696 --> 00:17:23.165
Handle it. why? it's competing in a race it was never designed to be in. (applause)
00:17:23.232 --> 00:17:25.334
In a race it was never designed to be in. (applause) on the other hand, if we traded
00:17:25.400 --> 00:17:26.502
To be in. (applause) on the other hand, if we traded in our suv for the racecar, it
00:17:26.568 --> 00:17:28.770
On the other hand, if we traded in our suv for the racecar, it looks so sleek and so nice, we'd
00:17:28.837 --> 00:17:30.305
In our suv for the racecar, it looks so sleek and so nice, we'd find out real quickly it doesn't
00:17:30.372 --> 00:17:32.708
Looks so sleek and so nice, we'd find out real quickly it doesn't work on the city streets. it's
00:17:32.774 --> 00:17:34.576
Find out real quickly it doesn't work on the city streets. it's too small. there's no place to
00:17:34.643 --> 00:17:36.445
Work on the city streets. it's too small. there's no place to put luggage, groceries. it's
00:17:36.512 --> 00:17:37.980
Too small. there's no place to put luggage, groceries. it's bumpy, low to the ground. my
00:17:38.046 --> 00:17:40.149
Put luggage, groceries. it's bumpy, low to the ground. my point is each car is designed
00:17:40.215 --> 00:17:42.951
Bumpy, low to the ground. my point is each car is designed for a specific race. the
00:17:43.018 --> 00:17:45.387
Point is each car is designed for a specific race. the suburban doesn't do any good
00:17:45.454 --> 00:17:46.855
For a specific race. the suburban doesn't do any good on the indy track. the race car
00:17:46.922 --> 00:17:48.490
Suburban doesn't do any good on the indy track. the race car doesn't do any good on the city
00:17:48.557 --> 00:17:49.958
On the indy track. the race car doesn't do any good on the city streets. the key is to keep the
00:17:50.025 --> 00:17:52.327
Doesn't do any good on the city streets. the key is to keep the car in the race that it was
00:17:52.394 --> 00:17:54.296
Streets. the key is to keep the car in the race that it was designed for. in the same way,
00:17:54.363 --> 00:17:57.366
Car in the race that it was designed for. in the same way, you have to be big enough to
00:17:57.432 --> 00:17:59.301
Designed for. in the same way, you have to be big enough to accept, "i may not be a
00:17:59.368 --> 00:18:01.870
You have to be big enough to accept, "i may not be a racecar. i may not be as fast
00:18:01.937 --> 00:18:03.405
Accept, "i may not be a racecar. i may not be as fast as my coworker or as smart as
00:18:03.472 --> 00:18:06.441
Racecar. i may not be as fast as my coworker or as smart as my sister, as talented as my
00:18:06.508 --> 00:18:08.610
As my coworker or as smart as my sister, as talented as my neighbor, but that's okay.
00:18:08.677 --> 00:18:10.879
My sister, as talented as my neighbor, but that's okay. an suv is just fine. there's a
00:18:10.946 --> 00:18:13.215
Neighbor, but that's okay. an suv is just fine. there's a place where i fit perfectly
00:18:13.282 --> 00:18:15.684
An suv is just fine. there's a place where i fit perfectly where my gifts, my talents, my
00:18:15.751 --> 00:18:17.653
Place where i fit perfectly where my gifts, my talents, my skill, my personality will
00:18:17.719 --> 00:18:18.887
Where my gifts, my talents, my skill, my personality will shine."
00:18:18.954 --> 00:18:20.656
Skill, my personality will shine." every once in a while you'll see
00:18:20.722 --> 00:18:22.457
Shine." every once in a while you'll see an suv out on the indy track
00:18:22.524 --> 00:18:25.093
Every once in a while you'll see an suv out on the indy track thinking, "i'm not going to be
00:18:25.160 --> 00:18:26.628
An suv out on the indy track thinking, "i'm not going to be happy unless i am the fastest,
00:18:26.695 --> 00:18:28.897
Thinking, "i'm not going to be happy unless i am the fastest, unless i'm out in front, unless
00:18:28.964 --> 00:18:29.965
Happy unless i am the fastest, unless i'm out in front, unless i'm getting all the credit."
00:18:30.032 --> 00:18:31.533
Unless i'm out in front, unless i'm getting all the credit." no, stay in your race. there is
00:18:31.600 --> 00:18:33.368
I'm getting all the credit." no, stay in your race. there is nothing wrong with not being a
00:18:33.435 --> 00:18:35.737
No, stay in your race. there is nothing wrong with not being a racecar. there is nothing wrong
00:18:35.804 --> 00:18:37.906
Nothing wrong with not being a racecar. there is nothing wrong with not being the fastest, the
00:18:37.973 --> 00:18:39.541
Racecar. there is nothing wrong with not being the fastest, the most beautiful, the most
00:18:39.608 --> 00:18:41.343
With not being the fastest, the most beautiful, the most talented. don't get distracted
00:18:41.410 --> 00:18:42.911
Most beautiful, the most talented. don't get distracted competing in a race that you
00:18:42.978 --> 00:18:45.881
Talented. don't get distracted competing in a race that you were never supposed to be in,
00:18:45.948 --> 00:18:48.150
Competing in a race that you were never supposed to be in, trying to outperform your
00:18:48.217 --> 00:18:50.185
Were never supposed to be in, trying to outperform your cousin. no, they're in a
00:18:50.252 --> 00:18:51.520
Trying to outperform your cousin. no, they're in a different race. feeling less
00:18:51.587 --> 00:18:53.188
Cousin. no, they're in a different race. feeling less than because a friend is being
00:18:53.255 --> 00:18:55.023
Different race. feeling less than because a friend is being more celebrated, frustrated
00:18:55.090 --> 00:18:57.192
Than because a friend is being more celebrated, frustrated because your neighbor is
00:18:57.259 --> 00:18:58.427
More celebrated, frustrated because your neighbor is further along. stay in your
00:18:58.493 --> 00:18:59.995
Because your neighbor is further along. stay in your race. be comfortable with who
00:19:00.062 --> 00:19:01.530
Further along. stay in your race. be comfortable with who you are.
00:19:01.597 --> 00:19:03.365
Race. be comfortable with who you are. a few years ago i was out
00:19:03.432 --> 00:19:05.000
You are. a few years ago i was out running. there was a man in
00:19:05.067 --> 00:19:06.568
A few years ago i was out running. there was a man in front of me about a quarter of
00:19:06.635 --> 00:19:08.170
Running. there was a man in front of me about a quarter of a mile and i could tell he was
00:19:08.237 --> 00:19:09.871
Front of me about a quarter of a mile and i could tell he was running a little slower than me
00:19:09.938 --> 00:19:11.840
A mile and i could tell he was running a little slower than me so i decided to try to catch
00:19:11.907 --> 00:19:13.442
Running a little slower than me so i decided to try to catch him. i had about a mile to go
00:19:13.508 --> 00:19:15.510
So i decided to try to catch him. i had about a mile to go before i needed to turn off and
00:19:15.577 --> 00:19:17.346
Him. i had about a mile to go before i needed to turn off and head down my path. i picked up
00:19:17.412 --> 00:19:19.748
Before i needed to turn off and head down my path. i picked up the pace and i could tell every
00:19:19.815 --> 00:19:21.550
Head down my path. i picked up the pace and i could tell every block i was gaining on him. in
00:19:21.617 --> 00:19:23.552
The pace and i could tell every block i was gaining on him. in a few minutes i was only about
00:19:23.619 --> 00:19:25.387
Block i was gaining on him. in a few minutes i was only about a hundred yards behind him and
00:19:25.454 --> 00:19:27.189
A few minutes i was only about a hundred yards behind him and i started really pushing it.
00:19:27.256 --> 00:19:29.491
A hundred yards behind him and i started really pushing it. you would have thought i was in
00:19:29.558 --> 00:19:30.425
I started really pushing it. you would have thought i was in that final lap of the olympic
00:19:30.492 --> 00:19:31.860
You would have thought i was in that final lap of the olympic games. i finally caught up to
00:19:31.927 --> 00:19:33.762
That final lap of the olympic games. i finally caught up to him, passed by him, felt so
00:19:33.829 --> 00:19:35.931
Games. i finally caught up to him, passed by him, felt so good i beat him. of course he
00:19:35.998 --> 00:19:38.634
Him, passed by him, felt so good i beat him. of course he didn't know we were racing.
00:19:38.700 --> 00:19:40.636
Good i beat him. of course he didn't know we were racing. (laughter)
00:19:40.702 --> 00:19:42.437
Didn't know we were racing. (laughter) but the funny thing is when i
00:19:42.504 --> 00:19:43.872
(laughter) but the funny thing is when i got my mind back on what i was
00:19:43.939 --> 00:19:45.207
But the funny thing is when i got my mind back on what i was doing i realized i had missed my
00:19:45.274 --> 00:19:46.975
Got my mind back on what i was doing i realized i had missed my turn. (laughter) i was so
00:19:47.042 --> 00:19:50.345
Doing i realized i had missed my turn. (laughter) i was so focused on trying to catch him
00:19:50.412 --> 00:19:52.381
Turn. (laughter) i was so focused on trying to catch him i went about six blocks further
00:19:52.447 --> 00:19:54.983
Focused on trying to catch him i went about six blocks further than i was supposed to. i had
00:19:55.050 --> 00:19:56.785
I went about six blocks further than i was supposed to. i had to turn around and come back.
00:19:56.852 --> 00:19:58.186
Than i was supposed to. i had to turn around and come back. that's what happens when we're
00:19:58.253 --> 00:19:59.721
To turn around and come back. that's what happens when we're competing with someone, trying
00:19:59.788 --> 00:20:01.356
That's what happens when we're competing with someone, trying to outperform them, dress better
00:20:01.423 --> 00:20:03.692
Competing with someone, trying to outperform them, dress better than them, make sure we're more
00:20:03.759 --> 00:20:05.093
To outperform them, dress better than them, make sure we're more successful. we end up competing
00:20:05.160 --> 00:20:08.163
Than them, make sure we're more successful. we end up competing in a race that we were never
00:20:08.230 --> 00:20:10.198
Successful. we end up competing in a race that we were never supposed to be in. it takes a
00:20:10.265 --> 00:20:11.933
In a race that we were never supposed to be in. it takes a lot of energy, physical and
00:20:12.000 --> 00:20:14.102
Supposed to be in. it takes a lot of energy, physical and emotional, to try to keep up
00:20:14.169 --> 00:20:16.538
Lot of energy, physical and emotional, to try to keep up with a coworker, dress better
00:20:16.605 --> 00:20:18.407
Emotional, to try to keep up with a coworker, dress better than a neighbor, be more
00:20:18.473 --> 00:20:19.608
With a coworker, dress better than a neighbor, be more successful than your cousin.
00:20:19.675 --> 00:20:21.677
Than a neighbor, be more successful than your cousin. no, take the pressure off. it's
00:20:21.743 --> 00:20:23.545
Successful than your cousin. no, take the pressure off. it's very freeing to say, "i'm okay
00:20:23.612 --> 00:20:26.148
No, take the pressure off. it's very freeing to say, "i'm okay with you being ahead of me,
00:20:26.214 --> 00:20:28.350
Very freeing to say, "i'm okay with you being ahead of me, getting more recognition, doing
00:20:28.417 --> 00:20:30.052
With you being ahead of me, getting more recognition, doing something more exciting. i'm
00:20:30.118 --> 00:20:32.054
Getting more recognition, doing something more exciting. i'm not going to feel bad about
00:20:32.120 --> 00:20:33.121
Something more exciting. i'm not going to feel bad about myself. if you have a bigger
00:20:33.188 --> 00:20:35.090
Not going to feel bad about myself. if you have a bigger house, a badder car, more
00:20:35.157 --> 00:20:37.159
Myself. if you have a bigger house, a badder car, more successful, you have what you
00:20:37.225 --> 00:20:39.828
House, a badder car, more successful, you have what you need for your assignment.
00:20:39.895 --> 00:20:41.430
Successful, you have what you need for your assignment. i have what i need for my
00:20:41.496 --> 00:20:42.564
Need for your assignment. i have what i need for my assignment. i don't have to
00:20:42.631 --> 00:20:44.166
I have what i need for my assignment. i don't have to keep up with you. i'm not in
00:20:44.232 --> 00:20:45.567
Assignment. i don't have to keep up with you. i'm not in the same race." (applause)
00:20:45.634 --> 00:20:48.136
Keep up with you. i'm not in the same race." (applause) you're not really free until
00:20:48.203 --> 00:20:49.838
The same race." (applause) you're not really free until you know you're not competing
00:20:49.905 --> 00:20:52.140
You're not really free until you know you're not competing with anyone else. this is one
00:20:52.207 --> 00:20:54.943
You know you're not competing with anyone else. this is one of the reasons that king saul
00:20:55.010 --> 00:20:56.978
With anyone else. this is one of the reasons that king saul lost the throne. he was happy
00:20:57.045 --> 00:20:59.815
Of the reasons that king saul lost the throne. he was happy running his race. life was good
00:20:59.881 --> 00:21:02.117
Lost the throne. he was happy running his race. life was good until he heard some women
00:21:02.184 --> 00:21:04.252
Running his race. life was good until he heard some women saying, "saul has killed
00:21:04.319 --> 00:21:06.922
Until he heard some women saying, "saul has killed thousands and david has killed
00:21:06.988 --> 00:21:09.124
Saying, "saul has killed thousands and david has killed tens of thousands."
00:21:09.191 --> 00:21:12.694
Thousands and david has killed tens of thousands." from that moment on he never
00:21:12.761 --> 00:21:13.528
Tens of thousands." from that moment on he never looked at david the same way.
00:21:13.595 --> 00:21:15.063
From that moment on he never looked at david the same way. what was his problem? he
00:21:15.130 --> 00:21:16.665
Looked at david the same way. what was his problem? he couldn't handle somebody
00:21:16.732 --> 00:21:17.999
What was his problem? he couldn't handle somebody getting ahead of him. he was
00:21:18.066 --> 00:21:19.801
Couldn't handle somebody getting ahead of him. he was fine as long as he was number
00:21:19.868 --> 00:21:21.236
Getting ahead of him. he was fine as long as he was number one but he couldn't handle
00:21:21.303 --> 00:21:22.771
Fine as long as he was number one but he couldn't handle being number two. he got
00:21:22.838 --> 00:21:24.573
One but he couldn't handle being number two. he got distracted and spent months and
00:21:24.639 --> 00:21:26.541
Being number two. he got distracted and spent months and months trying to kill david all
00:21:26.608 --> 00:21:28.710
Distracted and spent months and months trying to kill david all because he wasn't comfortable
00:21:28.777 --> 00:21:31.813
Months trying to kill david all because he wasn't comfortable with who he was. now maybe like
00:21:31.880 --> 00:21:34.383
Because he wasn't comfortable with who he was. now maybe like saul you're a one thousand
00:21:34.449 --> 00:21:36.485
With who he was. now maybe like saul you're a one thousand level person but you have a
00:21:36.551 --> 00:21:38.620
Saul you're a one thousand level person but you have a friend that's a ten thousand
00:21:38.687 --> 00:21:40.288
Level person but you have a friend that's a ten thousand level person. the real test to
00:21:40.355 --> 00:21:42.958
Friend that's a ten thousand level person. the real test to see if god can promote you is
00:21:43.024 --> 00:21:45.360
Level person. the real test to see if god can promote you is can you celebrate people that
00:21:45.427 --> 00:21:47.662
See if god can promote you is can you celebrate people that pass you by? can you be happy
00:21:47.729 --> 00:21:50.265
Can you celebrate people that pass you by? can you be happy for them and stay focused on
00:21:50.332 --> 00:21:52.067
Pass you by? can you be happy for them and stay focused on your race or does it frustrate
00:21:52.134 --> 00:21:54.035
For them and stay focused on your race or does it frustrate you, and think, "man, i've got
00:21:54.102 --> 00:21:55.303
Your race or does it frustrate you, and think, "man, i've got to catch up with them." no, our
00:21:55.370 --> 00:21:57.339
You, and think, "man, i've got to catch up with them." no, our attitude should be, "i may not
00:21:57.406 --> 00:21:59.107
To catch up with them." no, our attitude should be, "i may not be a ten thousand level person.
00:21:59.174 --> 00:22:01.443
Attitude should be, "i may not be a ten thousand level person. god may have made me to be a one
00:22:01.510 --> 00:22:03.178
Be a ten thousand level person. god may have made me to be a one thousand level person but i can
00:22:03.245 --> 00:22:05.213
God may have made me to be a one thousand level person but i can promise you this. i'm going to
00:22:05.280 --> 00:22:06.848
Thousand level person but i can promise you this. i'm going to be the best one thousand level
00:22:06.915 --> 00:22:08.683
Promise you this. i'm going to be the best one thousand level person you've ever seen. i'm
00:22:08.750 --> 00:22:10.619
Be the best one thousand level person you've ever seen. i'm not going to stop at 950, 980,
00:22:10.685 --> 00:22:12.988
Person you've ever seen. i'm not going to stop at 950, 980, 999. i'm going to become all
00:22:13.054 --> 00:22:14.990
Not going to stop at 950, 980, 999. i'm going to become all god has created me to be."
00:22:15.056 --> 00:22:16.825
999. i'm going to become all god has created me to be." (applause)
00:22:16.892 --> 00:22:18.193
God has created me to be." (applause) friends, your race is made up
00:22:18.260 --> 00:22:19.561
(applause) friends, your race is made up of one person; you. don't get
00:22:19.628 --> 00:22:21.430
Friends, your race is made up of one person; you. don't get distracted competing against a
00:22:21.496 --> 00:22:25.500
Of one person; you. don't get distracted competing against a neighbor, a friend, a coworker.
00:22:25.567 --> 00:22:27.369
Distracted competing against a neighbor, a friend, a coworker. just run your race. you have
00:22:27.436 --> 00:22:29.204
Neighbor, a friend, a coworker. just run your race. you have exactly what you need for your
00:22:29.271 --> 00:22:31.873
Just run your race. you have exactly what you need for your assignment. learn to accept
00:22:31.940 --> 00:22:33.809
Exactly what you need for your assignment. learn to accept your gifts. there's nothing
00:22:33.875 --> 00:22:36.445
Assignment. learn to accept your gifts. there's nothing wrong with not being the
00:22:36.511 --> 00:22:38.313
Your gifts. there's nothing wrong with not being the fastest, the most beautiful,
00:22:38.380 --> 00:22:40.282
Wrong with not being the fastest, the most beautiful, the most talented. here's a
00:22:40.348 --> 00:22:42.484
Fastest, the most beautiful, the most talented. here's a phrase i like. don't compare
00:22:42.551 --> 00:22:43.885
The most talented. here's a phrase i like. don't compare yourself. celebrate yourself.
00:22:43.952 --> 00:22:47.088
Phrase i like. don't compare yourself. celebrate yourself. somebody else may have conquered
00:22:47.155 --> 00:22:48.457
Yourself. celebrate yourself. somebody else may have conquered ten thousand. you've conquered
00:22:48.523 --> 00:22:50.192
Somebody else may have conquered ten thousand. you've conquered a thousand but you know what?
00:22:50.258 --> 00:22:51.793
Ten thousand. you've conquered a thousand but you know what? a thousand is still good.
00:22:51.860 --> 00:22:55.797
A thousand but you know what? a thousand is still good. celebrate what you've
00:22:55.864 --> 00:22:57.299
A thousand is still good. celebrate what you've accomplished. very few people
00:22:57.365 --> 00:22:58.366
Celebrate what you've accomplished. very few people today can say, "i like myself.
00:22:58.433 --> 00:23:00.101
Accomplished. very few people today can say, "i like myself. i'm happy with my gifts. i am
00:23:00.168 --> 00:23:02.270
Today can say, "i like myself. i'm happy with my gifts. i am satisfied with who god made me
00:23:02.337 --> 00:23:04.139
I'm happy with my gifts. i am satisfied with who god made me to be." remember, you don't
00:23:04.206 --> 00:23:05.841
Satisfied with who god made me to be." remember, you don't have to have a great gift for
00:23:05.907 --> 00:23:07.409
To be." remember, you don't have to have a great gift for god to use it in a great way.
00:23:07.476 --> 00:23:09.978
Have to have a great gift for god to use it in a great way. it may seem small, making a
00:23:10.045 --> 00:23:11.413
God to use it in a great way. it may seem small, making a lunch, slinging a rock like
00:23:11.480 --> 00:23:12.914
It may seem small, making a lunch, slinging a rock like david, but if you'll use what
00:23:12.981 --> 00:23:14.883
Lunch, slinging a rock like david, but if you'll use what you have god will breathe on it
00:23:14.950 --> 00:23:16.985
David, but if you'll use what you have god will breathe on it and do amazing things.
00:23:17.052 --> 00:23:18.987
You have god will breathe on it and do amazing things. if you will learn this simple
00:23:19.054 --> 00:23:20.355
And do amazing things. if you will learn this simple principle, being comfortable
00:23:20.422 --> 00:23:22.123
If you will learn this simple principle, being comfortable with who you are, you'll not
00:23:22.190 --> 00:23:23.625
Principle, being comfortable with who you are, you'll not only enjoy your life more but i
00:23:23.692 --> 00:23:25.494
With who you are, you'll not only enjoy your life more but i believe and declare you will
00:23:25.560 --> 00:23:27.329
Only enjoy your life more but i believe and declare you will rise higher, your gifts and
00:23:27.395 --> 00:23:29.231
Believe and declare you will rise higher, your gifts and talents will come out to the
00:23:29.297 --> 00:23:30.565
Rise higher, your gifts and talents will come out to the full, you will become everything
00:23:30.632 --> 00:23:32.534
Talents will come out to the full, you will become everything that god has created you to be.
00:23:32.601 --> 00:23:34.636
Full, you will become everything that god has created you to be. in jesus' name. if you receive
00:23:34.703 --> 00:23:36.738
That god has created you to be. in jesus' name. if you receive it can you say, "amen" today?
00:23:36.805 --> 00:23:39.608
In jesus' name. if you receive it can you say, "amen" today? (applause)
00:23:39.674 --> 00:23:41.276
It can you say, "amen" today? (applause) well, we never like to close
00:23:41.343 --> 00:23:42.477
(applause) well, we never like to close our broadcast without giving you
00:23:42.544 --> 00:23:43.845
Well, we never like to close our broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make jesus the
00:23:43.912 --> 00:23:45.480
Our broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life. would you
00:23:45.547 --> 00:23:47.282
An opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life. would you pray with me? just say, "lord
00:23:47.349 --> 00:23:49.317
Lord of your life. would you pray with me? just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins.
00:23:49.384 --> 00:23:52.954
Pray with me? just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins. come in to my heart. i make you
00:23:53.021 --> 00:23:55.423
Jesus, i repent of my sins. come in to my heart. i make you my lord and savior."
00:23:55.490 --> 00:23:59.060
Come in to my heart. i make you my lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that
00:23:59.127 --> 00:24:00.662
My lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe you got
00:24:00.729 --> 00:24:02.030
Friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe you got born again. get in a good
00:24:02.097 --> 00:24:03.865
Simple prayer we believe you got born again. get in a good bible-based church. keep god
00:24:03.932 --> 00:24:05.467
Born again. get in a good bible-based church. keep god first place. he's going to take
00:24:05.534 --> 00:24:07.402
Bible-based church. keep god first place. he's going to take you places that you've never
00:24:07.469 --> 00:24:08.770
It's a new year.
00:24:10.038 --> 00:24:11.206
It's a new year. time to see the impossible
00:24:11.273 --> 00:24:12.908
Time to see the impossible become possible.
00:24:12.974 --> 00:24:14.309
Become possible. it's a new year.
00:24:14.376 --> 00:24:15.477
It's a new year. life's setbacks are about
00:24:15.544 --> 00:24:17.178
Life's setbacks are about to become god's setups
00:24:17.245 --> 00:24:18.747
To become god's setups for new opportunity.
00:24:18.813 --> 00:24:20.248
For new opportunity. it's a new year.
00:24:20.315 --> 00:24:21.616
It's a new year. cherished dreams
00:24:21.683 --> 00:24:22.751
Cherished dreams will become unexpected reality.
00:24:22.817 --> 00:24:25.620
Will become unexpected reality. the start of the new year
00:24:25.687 --> 00:24:26.855
The start of the new year is the perfect time
00:24:26.922 --> 00:24:27.889
Is the perfect time to reset your focus,
00:24:27.956 --> 00:24:29.357
To reset your focus, release disappointments
00:24:29.424 --> 00:24:30.592
Release disappointments of the past,
00:24:30.659 --> 00:24:31.459
Of the past, and get ready for
00:24:31.526 --> 00:24:32.260
And get ready for the new things
00:24:32.327 --> 00:24:33.061
The new things god has in store.
00:24:33.128 --> 00:24:34.696
Every january,
00:24:34.796 --> 00:24:35.730
Every january, we create
00:24:35.797 --> 00:24:36.331
We create a new 365-day
00:24:36.398 --> 00:24:38.500
A new 365-day devotional calendar.
00:24:38.567 --> 00:24:40.368
Devotional calendar. i'd love to send it to you.
00:24:40.435 --> 00:24:41.836
I'd love to send it to you. each day is filled
00:24:41.903 --> 00:24:42.771
Each day is filled with inspiration,
00:24:42.837 --> 00:24:43.772
With inspiration, scripture, and uplifting
00:24:43.838 --> 00:24:45.407
Scripture, and uplifting declarations
00:24:45.473 --> 00:24:46.207
Declarations to fuel your faith.
00:24:46.274 --> 00:24:47.709
To fuel your faith. when you begin the day thanking
00:24:47.776 --> 00:24:49.210
When you begin the day thanking god for what he's done,
00:24:49.277 --> 00:24:50.612
God for what he's done, speaking victory
00:24:50.679 --> 00:24:51.646
Speaking victory over your future,
00:24:51.713 --> 00:24:53.048
Over your future, you're positioning yourself
00:24:53.114 --> 00:24:54.549
You're positioning yourself for a blessed,
00:24:54.616 --> 00:24:55.450
For a blessed, favor-filled year.
00:24:55.517 --> 00:24:57.118
Favor-filled year. amazing things happen
00:24:57.185 --> 00:24:58.420
Amazing things happen when you keep god first place.
00:24:58.520 --> 00:25:00.855
When you keep god first place. as our way of saying thank you
00:25:00.956 --> 00:25:02.591
As our way of saying thank you for your gift of any amount
00:25:02.657 --> 00:25:04.125
For your gift of any amount this first month of the year,
00:25:04.192 --> 00:25:05.760
This first month of the year, we would like to send you
00:25:05.827 --> 00:25:07.028
A copy
00:25:07.128 --> 00:25:07.529
Aof our brand new 365-day, 2026
00:25:07.629 --> 00:25:11.566
Aof our brand new 365-day, 2026 devotional calendar.
00:25:11.633 --> 00:25:13.068
Devotional calendar. do you want to overcome
00:25:13.134 --> 00:25:14.469
Do you want to overcome your most pressing
00:25:14.536 --> 00:25:15.370
Your most pressing challenges in 2026?
00:25:15.437 --> 00:25:17.439
Challenges in 2026? do you want to see your life
00:25:17.505 --> 00:25:18.873
Do you want to see your life take off in new directions
00:25:18.940 --> 00:25:20.575
Take off in new directions of influence,
00:25:20.642 --> 00:25:21.543
Of influence, favor and provision
00:25:21.610 --> 00:25:23.044
Favor and provision in the year ahead?
00:25:23.111 --> 00:25:24.446
In the year ahead? with this daily encouragement,
00:25:24.546 --> 00:25:26.381
With this daily encouragement, you'll not only smile
00:25:26.448 --> 00:25:27.782
You'll not only smile at your day,
00:25:27.849 --> 00:25:28.650
At your day, you'll be reminded
00:25:28.717 --> 00:25:29.718
You'll be reminded that god is smiling
00:25:29.784 --> 00:25:31.052
That god is smiling on your entire life.
00:25:31.119 --> 00:25:32.821
On your entire life. each day
00:25:32.887 --> 00:25:33.622
Each day will be a fresh new day.
00:25:33.688 --> 00:25:35.256
Will be a fresh new day. turn discouragement
00:25:35.323 --> 00:25:36.891
Turn discouragement to encouragement.
00:25:36.958 --> 00:25:38.360
To encouragement. frustration to fulfillment.
00:25:38.426 --> 00:25:40.662
Frustration to fulfillment. anxiety to overcoming.
00:25:40.729 --> 00:25:43.131
Anxiety to overcoming. using this devotional calendar
00:25:43.231 --> 00:25:45.100
Using this devotional calendar is as easy as one, two, three.
00:25:45.200 --> 00:25:48.436
Is as easy as one, two, three. one: wake up with an expectancy
00:25:48.503 --> 00:25:51.239
One: wake up with an expectancy in your heart.
00:25:51.306 --> 00:25:52.540
In your heart. two: reflect
00:25:52.607 --> 00:25:53.742
Two: reflect on the daily scripture verse
00:25:53.808 --> 00:25:55.210
On the daily scripture verse and devotional from joel.
00:25:55.276 --> 00:25:57.112
And devotional from joel. three:
00:25:57.178 --> 00:25:57.879
Three: capture the lord's
00:25:57.946 --> 00:25:58.947
Capture the lord's promises to you
00:25:59.014 --> 00:26:00.181
Promises to you on journaling lines
00:26:00.248 --> 00:26:01.416
On journaling lines for writing and reflection.
00:26:01.483 --> 00:26:03.652
For writing and reflection. 2026 is going to be
00:26:03.718 --> 00:26:05.353
2026 is going to be one of your best years ever.
00:26:05.420 --> 00:26:07.322
One of your best years ever. we're going to help you
00:26:07.389 --> 00:26:07.989
We're going to help you stay in faith
00:26:08.056 --> 00:26:08.890
So you can see
00:26:08.990 --> 00:26:09.624
The goodness of god
00:26:09.724 --> 00:26:10.992
The goodness of god in new ways.
00:26:11.059 --> 00:26:12.460
In new ways. victoria and i pray for
00:26:12.527 --> 00:26:13.528
Victoria and i pray for you and your family every day
00:26:13.595 --> 00:26:15.230
You and your family every day and we want to
00:26:15.296 --> 00:26:15.930
And we want to thank you for your prayer
00:26:15.997 --> 00:26:17.098
Thank you for your prayer and support.
00:26:17.165 --> 00:26:18.166
And support. your generosity is impacting
00:26:18.233 --> 00:26:20.035
Your generosity is impacting lives around the world.
00:26:20.101 --> 00:26:21.770
Lives around the world. a special
00:26:21.836 --> 00:26:22.270
A special thank you to our champion
00:26:22.337 --> 00:26:23.438
Thank you to our champion of hope partners
00:26:23.505 --> 00:26:24.339
Of hope partners for your monthly gifts.
00:26:24.406 --> 00:26:25.840
For your monthly gifts. if you're not a partner,
00:26:25.907 --> 00:26:26.708
If you're not a partner, i hope you'll consider
00:26:26.775 --> 00:26:27.575
I hope you'll consider becoming one.
00:26:27.642 --> 00:26:28.877
Becoming one. remember,
00:26:28.943 --> 00:26:29.377
Remember, you can watch the services
00:26:29.444 --> 00:26:30.645
You can watch the services online live
00:26:30.712 --> 00:26:31.980
Online live every sunday morning.
00:26:32.047 --> 00:26:33.515
Every sunday morning. download our daily podcast,
00:26:33.581 --> 00:26:35.450
Download our daily podcast, watch on youtube
00:26:35.517 --> 00:26:36.785
Watch on youtube or the new joel osteen network
00:26:36.885 --> 00:26:38.553
Or the new joel osteen network 24 hours a day.
00:26:38.620 --> 00:26:40.288
24 hours a day. of course,
00:26:40.355 --> 00:26:40.655
Of course, listen live on sirius
00:26:40.722 --> 00:26:41.790
Listen live on sirius xm as well.
00:26:41.856 --> 00:26:43.191
Xm as well. but until we meet again,
00:26:43.258 --> 00:26:44.693
But until we meet again, may the lord bless
00:26:44.759 --> 00:26:45.627
May the lord bless you and keep you.
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You and keep you. request your copy of the 2026
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You're in, god wants to speak into each
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Every season is a guided journal series
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Write out scripture, and reflect
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Scripture, and reflect on its truth,
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On its truth, one verse at a time.
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One verse at a time. as you engage with his word,
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As you engage with his word, you'll discover fresh strength,
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You'll discover fresh strength, deeper peace,
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Joel Osteen - Be Comfortable With Who You Are

January 1, 2026 | 29:55

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