 
# Johnson F. Odesola

DON'T QUIT,

TRY AGAIN

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**Don't Quit, Try Again © 2016** Johnson F. Odesola

**Don't Quit, Try Again**

By

Johnson F. Odesola

**ISBN:**

Smashwords Edition

This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This eBook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favourite eBook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

All Rights Reserved

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form, Stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by Any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise without prior written permission of the author and publisher.

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quotations are taken from

The Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright© 1982, by Thomas, Inc.

and the Holy Bible, King James Version, Kerr's Bible Handbook,

Cruden's Concordance Evangel Bible Project

Published By

Johnson Funso Odesola at Smashwords

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#  ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

All praise to God the Father, Jesus my Saviour and the Holy Spirit the director of my life and inspiration.

My sincere appreciation to Bisi my wife for her unflinching support and encouragement and to my home church members, Titi, Uche and Enoch.

Special thanks to my spiritual parents Daddy and Mummy E A Adeboye they are both my coaches to walk with the maker of millionaires

I am indebted to Pastor and Pastor (Mrs) E A Odeyemi my uncle and friend Pastor and Mrs Andrew Adeleke, Pastor Femi Popoola, Deaconess Yetunde Akinyemi, the Makindes, the Olatunyas, Olaniyan Timothy a friend indeed both when present and absent. Also I am thankful to various authors from whose works had been quoted at various stages and those whose facility had contributed towards my thought on this book.

Thank you all may God bless you.

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# TABLE OF CONTENT

Chapter 1

The Key to Success

All In The State Of Mind

Chapter 2

It Is Perspective That Determines The Outcome

How to Stop the Grasshopper Mentality

Deficiency Perspective vs. Sufficiency Perspective

"7" Paradigm Shifting Points!

Here Are Four Things That Most People Are Concerned About

Chapter 3

Keeping Your Vision Alive & Fresh

The Importance of Keeping Our Vision Alive & Fresh

Most Important Ingredient for Keeping Our Vision Fresh and Alive In God

Chapter 4

Making The Most Of Your Life

You Can Have A Full And Rewarding Life

What Is Needed For A Rich & Rewarding Life?

Chapter 5

The Only Road To True Happiness

Searching for Happiness, Peace & Joy in all the Wrong Places

God's Blueprint For Success

Results of Happiness

Chapter 6

Faith In God Works Miracles

Christians Lead the Way With Faith

Two Groups: Builders and Wrecking grew

Chapter 7

The Laws to Succeed

Hypothesis on the Subject of Success

You Are Not Wired To Fail!

Be Acquainted with the Laws

About the Author

Other Books By the Same Author

Author's Connects

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# Chapter 1

# THE KEY TO SUCCESS

This life does not offer many free lunches or instant successes. Our journey on Planet Earth is mostly a series of trials, errors and hard work and gaining success is hard to accomplish but not impossible.

Often success only comes on the heels of disappointment and failure. The only people that end up succeeding are the very ones who have failed and failed, but refused to quit. We live in a real world, with very few born into instant money, privilege and position.

For most of us, life is a day-to-day 'bump and grind' existence, with only a minuscule chance of winning some kind fortune and living the fantasy life projected on TV commercials.

But hard work has never hurt anyone and a little strain, stress and sweat is really quite healthy. And hard work is the only key to successful, without hard work and perseverance you will not become successful.

### If at first you do not succeed – Try Again

The old saying goes like this, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again", is good advice indeed. Do not give up, do not quit, but try and try again, until you finally are successful.

Abraham Lincoln ran for public office several times and was defeated. He did not give up and finally was elected President of the US and became renowned as one of America's greatest leaders.

Theologian Dr. Kenneth Taylor sought in vain for a publisher to print his new paraphrase of the Holy Bible. He organized Tyndale House Publishers and has sold more than 35 million copies of the Living Bible.

Science fiction writer Frank Herbert who authored the galactic epic Dune was turned down by 20 publishers before his manuscript was finally accepted. His book has sold more than 12 million copies.

If we turn our mistakes and failures into stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks, the experiences we go through are reversed from negative to positive. But if we take the low road of complaining, sulking and blaming people, it becomes a long-term aggravation that eats like a canker.

The Bible says, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he". Constructive Thinking is Your Elevator to Success—Dr. Seymour Epstein of the University of Massachusetts researched the thinking styles of highly successful people... The most interesting survey result was the fact that super-achievers think differently than average achievers. Epstein found nine key differences:

*Super-achievers think in ways that make them less sensitive to disapproval and rejection. They brush off rejection faster.

*They think in ways that facilitate effective action.

*Their thoughts are more focused on the task at hand and they refuse to let their minds drift to unpleasant events of the past.

If they cannot do anything about a negative situation, they do not worry about it and they move on with their lives.

*They do not engage in superstitious thoughts.

*The think that failures are an important source of learning and refuse to equate failure with low self-worth. Thinking constructively saves them from wasting time and suffering psychological pain.

*They do not restrict their thinking by establishing rigid patterns. They do not divide others into "winners" and "losers," but accept people for who they are as individuals.

*They think thoughts through without jumping to false conclusions. They are able to see their actions and the world in a healthy and realistic perspective. They are optimists, yet think realistically.

*They welcome challenges with optimism and without fear. When they face difficulties, they find ways to look at the positive side of life.

*They do not waste time in unproductive, esoteric, or catastrophic thoughts. They think constructively and they know that their level of thinking determines their level of success.

Here is a poem that I stumble on a while ago that reinforces that truth.

## All in the State Of Mind

If you think you're beaten, you are; if you think you dare, you don't.

If you'd like to win, but you think you can't, it's almost a cinch you won't.

If you think you'll lose, you've lost, for out in the world you find

Success begins with a fellow's thoughts. It's all in the state of mind.

If you think you're outclassed, you are; you've got to think high to rise.

You've got to be sure of yourself before you can ever win a prize.

Life's battles don't always go to the stronger or faster man;

But soon or later the man who wins is the fellow who thinks he can.

St. Paul stated emphatically: "I can do all things through Christ, which strengthens me". (Phil. 4:13)

And Jesus said: "All things are possible to him that believes". (Mark 9:23) "And Jesus looking upon them saith: With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." (Mark 10:27)

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# Chapter 2

# IT IS PERSPECTIVE THAT DETERMINES THE OUTCOME

Every man takes the limits of his own field of vision for the limits of the world. Arthur Schopenhauer(1788-1860).

Perspective is our focus today. With perspective we broaden our options or limit our options. I have found that many people who feel defeated by life, job or income capability have become myopic in perspective. I think we all have been in a place where we feel that there are no options because how much we have been through. Circumstances, environmental stimuli, or many other situations have modelled a very fearful perspective of life. On another note... others have overcome this mindset but got run over by something in life and found themselves with a crisis mindset.

Paradigm shifts became a buzz word resurged in the early 90s. This realization used to be a description of reasons why people have a particular perspective or mindset... that could be recognized... and re-focused... so to speak.

It is now commonly understood... that one thought, one statement, ONE Article, one success story, can alter the internal belief system. The same eyes you used to see your limitation... have now become the eyes of opportunity.

This affects your energy, your emotional bank and your belief that although you see the limits, you also now see possibilities.

Okay, enough clowning let's get down to some business. Now it is time to start a journey down a subject line which I believe could be life altering. Really, you should buckle your seatbelts, put your tray tables up and return your seat to its upright position because when your focus finishes the journey you will notice how your beliefs about yourself have shifted as you finish this book!

The focus scripture in this chapter which is Numbers 13 gives us a familiar look at the power of perspective. Although you may have been thinking of a particular thing...today we on the other hand are speaking of a general frame in which we process life.

So let's look at a scripture and review some thoughts about perspective in this situation.

## How to Stop the Grasshopper Mentality

"There we saw the giants; and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight." (Numbers 13:33)

The children of Israel learned a valuable lesson when it came time to possess their promised land. They learned you will never out-perform the portrait you have of yourself. To actually possess what God had promised them, they had to overcome the way they looked at themselves. The same is true for us today. Below are steps to getting rid of your grasshopper mentality:

*You must admit something exists before you can deal with it successfully. Ignoring a situation will not make it go away. Ignoring a mindset won't change it. When you realize that you have a grasshopper mentality, you must realize that is how the enemy sees you too. If you are to possess your promise, you must become more God conscious than giant conscious. (Prov. 23:7)

*Your conversation reveals whether you are a winner or a loser. Losers talk about obstacles. Winners talk about opportunities. Your conversation is a thermometer of your faith level. We must press on into the testimony that God has for us. We are not slaves, but sons, and our conversation should reflect that reality. (Matt. 12:34)

*You must daily cultivate the mind of Christ. It's time to quit weeping over what you've lost in your life and get on with what you do have. There is a purpose for your life. The Word of God says you have the mind of Christ. As a result you are super brilliant when you keep your mind stayed on Him. (Phil. 2:5)

*Recognize that a grasshopper complex will destroy your faith. The grasshopper mentality will stop up your flow of faith and give Satan a voice in your life. You must focus on your opportunities and not on your obstacles. You are greater because He lives on the inside of you. We must...Stop magnifying our problems and start declaring the testimony of tomorrow... today! (I John 4:4)

So the point I am making is... we must stop the grasshopper mentality. In which we view all we see... as what we don't have... and what we perceive others can do... to hold us back... from our potential. We must begin to see life with a different lens. One of hope, a future of success and fulfilment!

Also...because of the very large proportion of business leaders and church leaders who read this leadership material, I wanted to journey through some business and church comparisons to collate application of the material. Or as it is said... "to bring it home"... "Keep it real"... "Make it plain"...so let's further develop the application to firmly grasp the shift.

### Running the Thought through Business and Church!

In business when your product reaches a limit or shelf life, or when the market is saturated by others providing the same service, it is common to re-look at what you do and create a new category that better fits your present product outside of other already established categories.

Many companies use an upgraded version of a product... and repackage the product to meet current looks and concerns that re-capture the attention of a numbed culture. Some target certain age groups, others target certain genders, some just scatter advertisement seed... hoping to capture the attention of a busy society.

In the church... new categories always arise as mutations of past church look, practice and presentations. Although most don't do this to be different, but to release a perspective of something that co-ops with current sociological community trends... presently occurring within a culture. We don't change the message but we re-package or modulate some elements of the presentation. So... it then survives... changing trends and supersedes an expected life of a product or movement.

My point is although products do sometimes come and go...it is the mindset or the perspective of the business owner to re-invent themselves or the product. Elements are analyzed to determine the products true design... and the owner's belief combined with data determining the products worth in the market.

Then re-present it... according to this new "revised product" perspective. Again products can come and go.

•What I am trying to say is... "You are the business owner of "you"...the product".

•To survive in a changing economy of life we must keep a fluid perspective.

It has been often quoted that "he who is most flexible is most stable"!

Now let's... GO A LITTLE DEEPER INTO PERSPECTIVE!

Tip so far...since you are still tracking with me...

We all face serious giants of some type in our lives.

1. It is perspective that determines our movement.

2. It is perspective that sees possibilities where others see defeat.

There are always people who stand by waiting to shout the final eulogy of your life's work, before you are even dead.

3. It is perspective that as you keep growing... you keep a sufficiency perspective!

A short word of encouragement...

\- I got news for you...you aren't finished yet!

\- You are just about to re-create a new you... a better you!

\- You aren't stuck where you are!

\- You aren't limited by your circumstances!

\- There is a mutation occurring in your spirit right now and your perspective is changing and you are about to start a new category in your life!

\- Don't stop now! Don't settle where you are... re-creating a new future, re-create a new life.

The one big concept that... determines success or failure!

Now wait a minute before you start taking a leap to the moon. Mutate means that where you are... you begin to see ways to alter your present perspective and arrive at a new destination.

As you obviously know... I did not say, leave your job or ALL of your relationships, or write off people, or family that you are mad at right now. Hello!!

I am speaking today about an inside product. An internal state of living, looking and loving!

A little while back I was meditating on these different perspectives and how they affect our success in life, love and ministry. Many times our minds need to shift out of the foxholes of deficiency and into the post war lifestyle.

We must see ourselves as a valuable person in the sight of God... and understand these giants in the land of life... can come in many forms, on any given day.

That is why it is perspective that determines the outcome.

You do have what it takes...know it...believe it...You are uniquely created with resources placed deep within you that only you can use.

Pro 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but honour of Kings is to search out a matter.

Pro 28:19 He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

And when you begin to use your God given resources it begins to create more resources!

2 Cor 9:10 And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness [which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity]. [Isaiah 55:10; Hosea 10:12]

## Deficiency Perspective vs. Sufficiency Perspective

TIME FOR THE SHIFT OF PERSPECTIVE. We are now going deeper into a paradigm shift out of grasshopper and into giant killer perspective. See how quickly you can become aware of the changes you're making at a sub-conscience level! Because you imagine seeing the benefits... of learning about "focused perspective"!

Here is a good over view of the different mindsets. Here you can take a short test to see how you see life, opportunities, relationships etc...

DEFICIENCY...."There we saw the giants; and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight." (Numbers 13:33)

SUFFICIENCY..." Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it" (Numbers 13:30b)

Deficiency Perspective, Sufficiency Perspective

1. Defense1. Offense

2. Maintain2. Create

3. Escape Loss3. Pursue Vision

4. Gifts Contained4. Gifts Released

5. Reactive5. Proactive

6. Guard and protect6. Risk and Seize Opportunity

7. Stagnation7. Multiplication

8. Paralyzed: Hold on!8. Dynamic: Let go!

9. Narrow and closed9. Wide and Open

10. Thinks win/lose10. Thinks win/win

Please take some time and meditate upon the difference in perspective. Look up some of the words as you... feel a draw to a particular point. The more you chew your food the more is digested!

Also as you look across the two different perspectives... think about the many ways these perspectives affect our outlook... toward sowing into the gospel. So that... avenues of divine promises concerning our finances... can move in a faith perspective... because our spirits are moving with divine ideas... or new opportunities. My point here is... to think of practical ways... to apply this new shift in perspective you NOW have.

## '7' Paradigm Shifting Points!

GET THESE... "7" Paradigm shifting points!

To summarize some points you have already learned... let's review! See how many of these you were thinking already.

Check out the following perspective axioms suggested by the words and actions of Joshua and Caleb:

Here it is...

"7" Paradigm shifting beliefs that will re-create a new category for your next series of successes!

1. Our perspective determines our approach to life

2. Our perspective determines our relationship with others.

3. Our perspective is often the only difference between success and failure.

4. Our perspective at the beginning of a task will affect its outcome more than anything else.

5. Our perspective can turn problems into blessings.

6. Our perspective can give us an uncommonly positive outlook.

7. Our perspective is not automatically good... just because we belong to God.

Perspective makes all the difference.

The development of positive perspective is the first conscious step toward becoming an "Effective Leader".

"Successful Leadership" cannot be constructed without this critical building block of positive perspective.

People can and have altered their entire life by one shift of perspective because they practiced this understanding! A person is able to develop an internal focus of perspective that moves them into a new wave of survival, then a new energy, success and outlook!

Every time you are faced with a situation. Ask yourself... is there another view of this that I am not seeing. Include those that will provide other perspectives. Remember the longer you dwell on the negative the more ingrained your mind, emotions and perspective of reality becomes.

You are just a perspective change away from a whole new place of success!

I hope you have enjoyed our journey so far. You may already have started to notice the changes in perspective as you focus on the feelings of going deeper into positive perspectives. A person could allow the sub-conscious to integrate these thoughts of "new, faith filled perspectives". I'm curious to know... just how many ways you will find to apply the "sufficiency perspective" to your life.

I encourage you to consider your perspectives... so you can continue to improve the quality of your life!"Perspective is just matter of degrees" As a man thinketh in his heart so is he! (Prov 23:7)Success to the Kingdom and Success to you! (Math. 6:33)

In order to be successful we must re-adjust our beliefs system

We must come to God, in simple faith, believing that Christ's victory over Satan, death and Hell has purchased our freedom.

The Bible says, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil". (Heb. 2:14)

Jesus said: "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and you shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asks receives; and he that seeks finds; and to him that knocks it shall be opened". (Matt. 7:7-8)

## Here Are Four Things That Most People Are Concerned About:

_Peace of Mind_ : This comes through the knowledge of salvation, with the forgiveness of sins and the removing of guilt. Jesus said: "My peace I give unto you". (John 14:27; Rom. 5:1; 8:1)

_Protection of One's Home & Family_: The Bible says: "There shall no evil befall you and no plague shall come nigh unto your dwelling". (Ps. 91:10) The angels of God protect His people. "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all." (Ps. 34:19)

_Security For One's Job_ : The Bible tells us not to be concerned about tomorrow for He shall bless us with abundance. If we put Him first, He has promised to prosper and bless the work of our hands. (Matt. 6:33; Luke 6:38)

_Continued Good Health_ : When Jesus died on the cross, He purchased our healing, for the Bible states: "He was wounded for our transgressions ...and with His stripes we are healed". (Isa. 53:4-5)

" _When the even was come, they brought unto Him many that were possessed with devils: and He cast out the spirits with His Word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." (Matt. 8:16-27)_

The key to succeeding and becoming successful in anything we do, is in not giving up. We must keep trying, we must keep faith. We must ask God in prayer for our needs, seek the Word of God for answers and keep knocking till we receive. That's real faith! And that is the key to success.

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# Chapter 3

# KEEPING YOUR VISION ALIVE & FRESH

In this chapter our focus will be about the importance of keeping our vision alive and fresh. This would involve our corporate vision as a body and our personal visions as individual members of the body.

We all have been dealt a measure of faith from God, this measure encompasses the vision God has given to us as individual members of His body.

For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another (Romans 12:3-5).

We are a many member body moving and functioning together in the corporate vision God has given to the body.

## The Importance Of Keeping Our Vision Alive & Fresh

It is vision that moves us forward in God. Without it we have a tendency to get caught up in drifting aimlessly in God not really knowing what we are doing, where we are going nor even what we are all about.

Where there is no revelation (or prophetic vision), the people cast off restraint; but happy is he who keeps the law (Proverbs 29:18).

• **Illustration** :

In a "Leadership" magazine article, Lynn Anderson described what happens when a people lose their vision. A group of pilgrims landed on the shores of America about 350 years ago. With great vision and courage they had come to settle in the new land. In the first year they established a town. In the second, they elected a town council. In the third, the government proposed building a road 5 miles westward into the wilderness. But in the fourth year the people tried to impeach the town council because they thought such a road into the forest was a waste of public funds. Somehow these forward-looking people had lost their vision. Once able to see across oceans, they now could not look 5 miles into the wilderness.

We all have a need for long range vision and short range vision. When we lose sight of the overall purpose & vision of what we are all about, we also lose sight of our immediate goals.

The apostle Paul is a good example of this. In many cases he simply stepped out in faith to pursue his calling, because of his overall vision and understanding of what God wanted to do in his life. But as he did that God would give him specific instructions that would bring short term clarity to his overall vision and calling in God.

"Let us go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing."Acts 15:36

Paul was simply responding to his burden and responsibility in the Lord, which was a part of his overall vision and purpose.

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us."Acts 16:6-10

•There should always be the overall vision and purpose of which God has birthed into our hearts through His Word and Spirit. This vision remains constant.

We need immediate vision and purpose so that we can experience victories and a sense of accomplishment to encourage us to keep going towards the long range goals and vision.

We have a need of fresh vision and direction that will keep us in alignment with God's overall purpose and vision.

The overall vision & purpose for the body of Christ.

God's overall vision for the church is for it to be a mature body that is joined together bone to bone so that it represents His fullness in the earth. As a result the gospel will go forth to all the nations bringing multitudes to Christ.

Ezekiel 37:1-11 is a passage of scripture that speaks of the faith picture or vision of what God has in store for the Body of Christ...and the bones came together, bone to bone...

Ephesians 4:11-16 speaks of the church coming to the measure of the stature of Christ to a perfect man being joined and knit together by what every joint supplies for the growth of the body.

And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14

This is the bigger picture of all that we are to do in Jesus and of which must fit into our corporate vision as a body and our personal vision in Jesus Christ. Whatever measure of faith that God has given to me relates to the bigger picture. You need to be continually reminded and refreshed in the big picture so that your own personal vision is renewed accordingly.

## Ways in Which Satan Tries To Dim Your Vision.

It is important to understand that we have an adversary who wants to keep us from doing God's will and he knows if he can blind us or dim our vision in God, he can rend us ineffective in God.

But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of, God should shine on them.2 Corinthians. 4:3-4

•We are told that we are not to be ignorant of Satan's devices.

Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:11.

In this portion of the message I want to share with you some of the ways in which Satan tries to dim our vision in God.

### Un-repented Sin Causes Vision to Grow Dim

Isaiah 59:9-12 It says here, they grope for the wall like the blind and stumble at noonday as at twilight, because of their sins being multiplied before God.

The reason their sins are multiplied before God is that there is not an ongoing repentance. When there is an ongoing repentance for our sins, God is able to forgive them one by one.

Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. Acts 3:19

### Broken Relationships in the Body Cause Spiritual Blindness

When we allow offenses from a brother or sister to turn to bitterness rather than dealing with it and forgiving one another, we open ourselves up to the devices of the devil and our spiritual eyes become blinded.

He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. he who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause of stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. I John 2:9-11

### Too Much Focus on Carnality or the Lust of the Eyes Causes loss of vision.

When Eve saw that the tree was good for food, and pleasant to the eyes, she partook of the fruit and her eyes were opened to their carnal state rather and closed to their spiritual state. Genesis 3:6

Lot's desire for earthly and carnal things caused him to lose his vision in God and as a result he became a very carnal person with no vision in God. Genesis 13:10

Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things and revive me in your way. Psalm 119:37

### Too Much Focus on the Past Can Cause Dimness of Vision

When Lot and his family came out of Sodom His wife looked back because her affections and concerns were still very much focused on the past. As a result she turned into a pillar of salt and was prevented from seeing what God would have had for her in the future.

But his wife looked back behind him, and she became a pillar of salt. Genesis 19:26

Remember what the apostle Paul said, "but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead."

### Spending Too Much Time Looking at Difficulties Causes Blindness

Satan tries to point our focus on the difficulties that lie ahead rather than the promise of God's Word that builds faith and vision into our hearts.

In Numbers 13:27-33 there we have the story of the spies who came back with a bad report because their focus was on the natural, which represented insurmountable and devastating difficulties.

Joshua and Caleb were the only ones who had their focus right. Their focus was on what they new God was able to do and what His promise towards them was. As a result of the nation of Israel focusing their attention on the difficulties before them, their vision in God was dimmed and they failed to accomplish what God had set before them.

Peter attempted to walk on water, because of the spiritual vision he had, but when he began to focus on the problem around him, he lost his vision and began to sink. Matthew 14:29-30

## Most Important Ingredient For Keeping Our Vision Fresh And Alive In God

Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. I Corinthians 13:12

Because of the fact that we do not see clearly it is important that we incorporate into our lives the necessary ingredients that do keep our vision alive and fresh in God.

### Communion and Fellowship with the Holy Spirit Is Essential

"However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 "He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 "All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.. John 16:13-15

Relationship and communion with the Holy Spirit is absolutely necessary if we are to keep our vision alive and fresh in God.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.2 Corinthians 13:14

"We grow great by dreams. All big men are dreamers. They see things in the soft haze of a spring day, or in the red fire on a long winter's evening. Some of us let these great dreams die, but others nourish and protect them; nourish them through bad days till they bring them to the sunshine and light which comes always to those who sincerely hope that their dreams will come true."Don't let anyone steal your dreams! (Woodrow Wilson)

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# Chapter 4

# MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR LIFE

A real popular phrase we have all heard says, "Get A Life". In this section I want encourage you to "get a life" that is full of God's blessings and rewards. I want to talk about the life that you have been given in God and what a Great life it is. If I were to ask you what is it that you want out of life, what would you tell me? I believe most of us want a rich and rewarding life that experiences fulfilment in many ways.

Is your life one that you are happy and content with or are you looking for something more than what you have. Are you making the most of your life that God has given to you by making it count for something or are you simply spinning your wheels in frustration and discontentment? Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit"; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that."James 4:13-15

In all reality we really have very little time to make our lives count for something. Does your world make sense to you or do you feel that you spend most of your time accomplishing very little? Do you feel like you are simply spinning your wheels and expending your precious energy on things that have very little value or consequences?

## You Can Have A Full And Rewarding Life

I believe most of us have an inborn need of really desiring to be useful. We all search for the meaning of our existence. We have a need to know that there is purpose in what we do. We want to feel like we really are needed and that the tasks and responsibilities that we perform in life are important and necessary and that they count for something. The average person is probably discontent with the way his or her life is going.

Are you happy with your life? Do you have a rewarding marriage & family life? Are you fulfilling your life-long ambitions or have you settled into complacency that has simply accepted the mediocrity of life? God has promised us a full and rewarding life filled with excitement and purpose. You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalms 16:11

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Do these seem like an empty promises to you and that God is simply baiting you to get your attention or do you really believe that God is able help you make the most of your life with rich rewards?

What is your home life like? Are you experiencing all that God wants for you in you marriage and your family? Is there a major discontentment in your home or are you truly walking in the most that God has for you? What about your work? Are you satisfied or does it all seem futile to you? What about your service to God and the church? Are you just spinning your wheels or are you making your life count in the things that you are involved in?

## What Is Needed For A Rich & Rewarding Life?

### 1. You Must Have A Sense Of Purpose And Destiny.

Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but happy is he who keeps the law. Proverbs 29:18

...who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.2 Timothy 1:9

A life without purpose will cause us to chase many endless rainbows that only bring dissatisfaction, heartache, disillusionment, a sense of failure, apathy, emptiness, and a sense of total worthlessness.

This doesn't sound like the abundant life that God has promised us does it? You see, if my dream is an end in itself it will leave me empty and still wanting.

**Illustration: Businessmen say lives `empty'.**

A study of 4,126 male business executives reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the corporate experience. Forty-eight percent of all middle managers said that despite years spent striving to achieve their professional goals, their lives seemed "empty and meaningless." 68% of senior executives said that they had neglected their family lives to pursue professional goals, and half said they would spend less time working and more time with their wives and children if they could start over again. The question that men are asking today is: "What am I doing all this for?" Before, the payoff was security and long-term employment. But corporations don't return loyalty as they used to and men today are saying they don't see the investment as being worth it. So says Jan Halper of the Palo Alto Consulting Centre who conducted the survey. (Extract from San Francisco Chronicle, 1989)

**King Solomon came up with this same conclusion.**

Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure, for my heart rejoiced in all my labour; and this was my reward from all my labour. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done and on the labour in which I had toiled; and indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun. Ecclesiastes 2:10-11. When Solomon lost sight of God's purpose, the things in his life became worthless and futile. As a result he became very dissatisfied and discontent with his life.

We must look to God's purpose in all that we do. We must see the things that we do as God given tasks understanding that God wants us to work out His purpose in our lives no matter what it is we are involved in. This will keep you from chasing empty rainbows. If my dream is an end in itself it will become an empty pursuit.

What profit has the worker from that in which he labours? I have seen the God-given task with which the sons of men are to be occupied. He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labour; it is the gift of God. Ecclesiastes 3:9-13. Business people, do you want to get the most out of your life as a business person? If so acknowledge God in all your ways and He will direct your steps. Working man, do you want to get the most out of your life? Working mother, do you want to make your life count? If so, acknowledge God in all of your ways and He will direct your steps. Husband & wife, do you want to get the most out of your marriage? If so, acknowledge God in all of your ways. He will cause you to see that you are a team working together for His purpose in your family and ministries. Father and mother, do you want to get the most out of your lives in raising your children? If so, acknowledge God in all of your ways and you will see His purpose and reward coming alive in your children and family atmosphere.

### Find Contentment In What You Are Doing.

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.(Philippians 4:11-13)

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.(1 Timothy 6:6-8). Many people are not content with the work they are doing because the grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence. They are dissatisfied even when their circumstances are favourable. Instead of doing their duty cheerfully and conscientiously as unto the Lord, they yield to a spirit of covetousness. As a result, they miss God's best for their lives and fail to see the blessings they already have.

***Illustration: Acres of Diamonds.**

An ancient Persian legend tells of a wealthy man by the name of Al Haffed who owned a large farm. One evening a visitor related to him tales of fabulous amounts of diamonds that could be found in other parts of the world, and of the great riches they could bring him. The vision of all this wealth made him feel poor by comparison. So instead of caring for his own prosperous farm, he sold it and set out to find these treasures. But the search proved to be fruitless. Finally, penniless and in despair, he committed suicide by jumping into the sea. Meanwhile, the man who had purchased his farm noticed one day the glint of an unusual stone in a shallow stream on the property. He reached into the water, and to his amazement he pulled out a huge diamond. Later when working in his garden, he uncovered many more valuable gems. Poor Al Haffed had spent his life travelling to distant lands seeking jewels when the farm he had left behind were all the precious stones his heart could have ever desired.

Let your conduct be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we may boldly say: "The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:5-6. We live in a society that teaches and trains us to want and covet what our neighbour has. It is promoted everywhere we go. We compare status, home, clothes, income, vehicles, and many other things. As a result we are never satisfied or content with our lives. If this is where our thoughts are at, we will pursue these things as well. As a result we come up empty and unsatisfied because these are not the things that bring us gain. It is godliness with contentment that brings us gain. These are only empty illusions from the devil of which he uses to destroy the real life and joy that Christ wants us to have in this life.

We must humble ourselves and accept God's placement for our lives and then allow Him to exalt us in due time. This means being the best that we can be for Christ in whatever it is that we are doing or where it is that He has us planted; works, business, homemaker, mother, father, ministry or whatever. Be content and allow God to use you as a sweet smelling fragrance where you are at. This is the key. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:10

Many times people come into the kingdom, who are discontent with the world, but they go on living their lives for themselves and never really make the most of their lives. As a result discontentment continues.

Sometimes Christians start out doing great but when trials, trouble, anxiety and problems begin to occur they begin to focus once again on the empty promises of the enemy and as a result they slip into a greater state of discontentment and end up making very little of their lives.

### We Must Evaluate Our Priorities From Time To Time

Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease! Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven. (Proverbs 23:4-5)

Being rich is not necessarily that which equates with making the most of your life. Do you have peace in your home? Are you bearing fruit in the kingdom? Do you have a happy and rewarding marriage? Are your children living peaceably with one another and growing in the Lord?

We need to ask ourselves, why am I discontent and dissatisfied? What is going on in my life that is making me this way? Why am I not making the most of my Life? Are my priorities out of order? Am I putting more time and energy into those areas that are very little consequence? Should I be putting more time into my family and my marriage and service to God?

The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.(Proverbs 21:5)

# Chapter 5

# THE ONLY ROAD TO TRUE HAPPINESS

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind...and thy neighbour as thyself". (Matt. 22:37- 40)

Everyone is searching for happiness – What is happiness and real Joy?

Everyone is searching for true happiness. There isn't an individual who doesn't want peace, joy, to be happy and have real fulfilment! Unfortunately, very few find true happiness. Not because happiness, joy and peace are not available, but because they are not looking in the right place!

Many are like a blind man, grasping in the darkness or someone searching for a needle in the haystack.

## Searching for Happiness, Peace & Joy in all the wrong places

Everything seems so impossible! Nothing works out. Happiness, peace and joy eludes them like a mirage on the desert or a phantom rider who disappears as he turns the bend in the road!

The divorce Courts show that love & marriages often don't leave a person with joy, peace and happiness

Judging from the great numbers who fill our divorce courts, love and marriage is often a bummer!

Many, who on happier days laughed and loved, are now disappointed, bitter and angry. They want out, to call it "quits". The home has turned into a battlefield. The tenderness and caring is gone, along with any desire for romance. All feelings of peace, joy and happiness are gone.

### How to find real joy, real peace and true lifelong happiness

For them, love and marriage has not been the answer to the quest for true happiness. They are still searching for that one thing that will bring them complete peace, complete joy and complete happiness.

A large number will try again in a common-law (shack up) arrangement or a second marriage - hoping, hoping, hoping that this one will pan out better and they will finally be happy.

### Alcohol is a tyrant and brings temporary happiness

In many instances, alcohol seems like a comfort and friend to the lonely divorcee, the aging socialite or social butterfly. Alcohol can also become a friend to the businessman about to declare bankruptcy. And what of the person who has lost an expected promotion, the desire to compete or who has reached the top of the ladder with no place to go? Where does this person turn to for peace, for happiness...In a bottle of alcohol?

Life has become boring, humdrum and a waste to a lot of people; for many and varied reasons. For some, the future looks bleak with high rents or mortgage payments, having to live on unemployment insurance or welfare checks.

Depression, fear, sickness and pain and even thoughts of suicide

Others are dogged by depression, fear, sickness, pain and even thoughts of dying or suicide!

People try to fill the voids and unhappiness in their life with drugs and alcohol

And so they try to drown their sorrows with alcohol or drugs. But, drugs, alcohol and suicide is no cure-all. Rather, these only further enslave and in the end, destroy totally!

Alcohol and mind altering drugs are cruel despots and tyrants which refuse to stop, until all hope and life is gone!

### True Happiness is not found in fame and fortune!

If your fame and fortune can bring you true happiness and joy, then ask the unhappy movie star who visits her psychiatrist regularly. If you think the richer you are the happier you are, then why do so many rich people turn to drugs and alcohol to find peace, joy and happiness? Money, fame and fortune only bring temporary happiness, temporary peace and very little joy.

Read stories of millionaires who have overdosed on drugs or leap from buildings to their deaths

Read the sad stories of millionaires and business tycoons who have become so miserable that they have blown their brains out, taken an overdose or leaped from the penthouse of their luxury apartments!

Success is sweet, but it doesn't last long enough. And if it does, very often there is no satisfaction! And the rat race seems to be never-ending.

Being successful doesn't come with a guarantee. Success does not guarantee you will be fulfilled in your heart. Success and fame doesn't mean you will truly be happy, full of peace and contentment. Nothing in this life is 100% permanent or secure! Exceeding the quota this year, means it will be tougher next year!

This year's champion is often last year's champion next year, and "president today" could mean "former president" after the board meeting or election. And "success today" often is only a memory in a few years, together with some mementos on the dresser and news stories in a scrapbook!

Faster time marches on and always takes its toll, without favouritism. The young executive who worked so hard to make it to the top, suddenly finds himself nearing 65 with the prospects of a farewell dinner, a couple of speeches and the "traditional gold watch". And then out to pasture.

Time waits for no man – rich or poor, black or white – every person will eventually get old and eventually die

Time waits for no man...and it has a way of catching up to all of us! And the years do a job on the most healthy, robust and virile. As time passes, hair turns gray, wrinkles appear, muscles lose their tone and the strength of youth dissipates.

Through sickness, disease, accidents or just plain 'old age' death comes to everyone. The grim reaper always wins in the end!

Money and riches have a way of slipping out of our hands too, and even if we can hang on to it, what good is a fortune when you're too sick to enjoy it or too old to spend it?

If we're blessed enough to have good health, there are only so many things to buy, see or do. Vacations and parties become boring too, don't they?

True happiness joy and peace does not come from alcohol, drugs or money

No, my friend. True happiness does not come from a marijuana joint, a bottle of beer, a cocktail glass, great wealth and affluence or the applause of our fellowmen!

Nearly 2,000 years ago, St. Paul wrote, "But godliness with contentment is great gain". (1 Timothy. 6:6) Again he declared, "Not that I speak in respect of want. For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content". (Phil. 4:11)

### The joy of the Lord is my strength, My peace I give unto you

The Bible says, "The joy of the Lord is our strength". (Neh. 8:10) Jesus said, "My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled". (John 14:27) And St. Paul declared, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, by of love and power and a sound mind." (1 Tim. 1:7)

The way to true happiness is God's way; you can only find true peace, complete happiness and joy through Jesus Christ

The only way to true happiness is going God's way, walking the Gospel road! And the two prerequisites that Jesus Christ spelled out are:

### Love God - Love your fellowmen

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by Me". St. Peter stated, "There is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved". (John 14:6)

And St. Paul said, "There is one God and one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave Himself a ransom for all". (1 Tim. 2:5-6)

The only way we can love our fellowman, is to be filled with the Holy Spirit, for the "love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost". (Rom. 5:5)

Then we will really have something to live for, and share with our children and grandchildren!

## God's Blueprint For Success!

Jesus stated that upon these two commandments "hang all the Law and the Prophets". (Matt. 22:40)

Love for God translates into the desire and capacity of loving one's neighbour!

The Bible gives us the blueprint for revival in the Church, good community relations, peace on earth and prosperity among men!

If everyone really loved God with all our being, we would keep His commandments. We would automatically praise the Lord, preach His Word and love our fellowman!

Then, spontaneous revival would break out in our churches and sinners would flock into God's house to receive His blessing! They would "see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven". (Matthew 5:16)

If we all loved our neighbours as ourselves we would be kind, loving, merciful, gracious and forgiving. We would bring happiness to others which in turn would give us happiness. We would not judge one another or be proud, envious, jealous, resentful or biased. Not only would we all be truthful and godly in our living but also caring, compassionate and helpful. All these things bring peace and joy to our souls. There would be a drastic reduction in crime, lawlessness and delinquency as parents loved, nurtured and disciplined their children.

The Outcome - Police departments would be reduced in size and jails near empty. Bingo halls and gambling arcades would close up; bars and taverns would go out of business! If a genuine revival of righteousness came to our land, the banks would have to lower "the exorbitant usury" they usually charge their customers and be content with decent profits. Price gouging would be eliminated and bankruptcies would be virtually non-existent!

Families would grow together in love and harmony and divorce lawyers would have to find something else to do. Abortion clinics would be turned into 'Adoption Centres' and money-hungry, medical doctors 'turned executioners of unborn foetuses' would return to the practice of saving lives!

Schools and universities would again become centre of genuine learning communicating moral values, common sense and responsibility with academic training!

People would not be searching for true happiness, peace and joy- They would already have peace joy and complete happiness

If we all loved God and our fellowman and embraced the teachings of the 'Good Shepherd' there would be a turning away from the deceptions of an atheist science which promotes the fatally flawed evolutional theory, dangerous occultist practices of the New Age Movement and secular humanism! Anyone following the "Golden Rule" - do unto others as you would have them do unto you - would not rape, murder, steal, commit adultery, live a homosexual lifestyle or lie!

Automatically, 'born again' Christians seek the "high road of life" after an encounter with 'Jesus of Nazareth' making us concerned about the needs of others - spiritual, economical and physical - because of a changed life & a transforming spiritual experience! The blessed Holy Spirit tenderizes our hearts with compassion for the needy, sick, suffering and unfortunate!

Loving God and our neighbours also has a therapeutic effect for those who follow Christ's teachings. By helping others, we get our minds off ourselves, thereby releasing any neurotic tendencies which may have developed in our lives! By pampering ourselves too much, we spoil ourselves and lose touch with the real issues of life! General William Booth - founder of the Salvation Army - used the word 'OTHERS' as his slogan!

By God's grace and sheer faith, let's resolve to do the same and by doing these things, you will finally find the road to true peace, true happiness and true joy

## Results of Happiness

Everyone whether Christian, non Christian or atheist wants to be happy. But what is happiness? Outlined for you below are time proven truths and actions to get biblical happiness today.

*Happiness is responding in joy and praise to severe trials and not getting your own way. Ask for and receive the grace of God by faith (faith is not based on your feelings. Rom 10:7) to give Him strong praise. Jam 1:2; Jam 5:10 -11

*Happiness is suffering for righteousness sake rather than having the self-entered desire of always being treated right by others met. 1 Pet 3:14-16, 1 Pet 4:14-16 By faith ask God for grace and understanding. If you are suffering for your own lawlessness thank God for His loving correction so that you might live and not die. If you are being persecuted for Christ thank God you are counted worthy to suffer for His name.

*Happiness is bearing fruit for Christ sake rather than accomplishing goals to satisfy yourself ambition. John 15:8, John 15:16 Ask God for a passionate desire and simple plan to advance His kingdom through you.

*Happiness is being victorious through God given boldness rather than doing what you want because of yourself -confidence.1Sam17:32, 34-37, 45-47, Dan11:32b The tragedy is self-confidence replaces faith. Once circumstances undermine your self-confidence you will be filled with - fear. (That is what happened to King Saul 1Sam15:24, 1Sam17:11). Ask God for as much intimacy with Him as you can handle right today.

*Happiness is the character of Christ being formed in you each day rather than being praised by men. Embrace God the Father's values for your maturity. Such as: correction (John 15:2, 2 Tim 3:16-17), correction not abuse; love (John 8:42, Jn13:34 -35, John 15:4), love not sentimentality; hope (Rom5:1-5, Rom 8:24-26, Rom 15:13), hope not fantasy; faith(Rom 8:31-32, 1 Cor1:29-31), faith not self -glory. These are all actions and releases of God the Holy Spirit's power; nothing about the Christian life is merely an ideal. Luke 6:49 Ask Jesus to immerse you in the Holy Spirit as He immersed Himself in the Father so you may express His character with faith, hope and love. Ask Him for a heart that loves correction so you may mature into Christ's image.

*Happiness is following Jesus to serve others rather than in being served. John10:27, Jn12:26, Jn13:14. In the verses before washing the disciples feet we are told Jesus knew He had come from the Father i.e. (was equal to Him) and was returning to the Father.

What impact do the principles of Biblical happiness have on the top statistical indicators of happiness in our society?

Faith - 30% of the population that are regular church attendees are the happiest people in the World. Attending church is to a Christian, as water is to a fish and the ground is to the tree. (Jn: 15:4-5) 46% of the people who pray every day say they are very happy. One man said, "Prayer is like breathing." True prayers also require self denial. Based on the above facts it should be easy to see why. God must be 1st before family, recreation, or work. (Luke 14:27, John 8:31, John15:8-1)

Work - God wants to reach the world. The work of the church and what we do at our jobs is the same, to tell people about Jesus. Is it possible unhappy people might want to hear good news? That is the meaning of the gospel –good news. (Mt 28:18-20, Mk 16:15, Lk10:2, Jn16:23-24)

Giving - When financial troubles come, that is the time to give the most. We must put our confidence in God, not the economy or the government. When God brings us through something we will no longer be afraid of it. When we no longer fear losing something, we can concentrate on gaining. Support of the gospel (1Cor 16:2), Seed faith (Lk 6:38), Alms (Mt 6:1-4), Tithes (Malachi 3:10-12)

Freedom – Live in God's Word – do it! (Jhn 8:31-32, Jn15:7)

God is waiting to give us happiness through the doorway of prayer. Here is a prayer to help transition our spirits into alignment of that which God has for us: "Heavenly Father forgive me for trying to find happiness without You. Forgive me for saying I am weak. You said, "Let the weak say they are strong." I'm not asking for life to be easier, I'm asking you to make me stronger! I'm asking you to help me with my faith. I'm coming back with a vengeance. From this day forward I'm a servant of the most high God! I lay aside every weight, every sin and I begin the race again. I'm receiving power right now, sins are leaving me, my burdens are rolling off and the power of God is coming into my Spirit, Mind and Soul. I commit myself again, afresh and anew. In Jesus mighty name! I thank you and praise your name. Amen.

# Chapter 6

# FAITH IN GOD WORKS MIRACLES

"And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Acts 2:21)

"If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23)

This world is divided into two groups: those who make it happen and those who ask, "What happened?" The one group has faith and the other group does not. The battle lines are drawn between believers and unbelievers, the faithful and those without with, the optimists and pessimists; people of action and those who sit on their hands!

## Faith Is Action - Faith without Work Is Dead

Faith is action, not just words. And faith in God works miracles! The Bible says, "Faith without work is dead..." (James 2:26) Faith sets the wheels in motion and gets the job done!

Although our believing will get results, we must have patience, faith and perseverance. This is why King David said, "Submit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass". (Psalms 37:5)

We all can be discourage but in-spite of this must put faith to action

Sometimes we hit dry holes or times of discouragement, we can slip a step or two backwards or even take a fall. When this happens, we must have faith. We pick ourselves up, square our shoulders and march forward with renewed, stronger faith.

We must keep on keeping on, never giving up the faith, regardless of tough times, the handicap under which we labour. These trials we live through are what make us stronger and our continued faith in God and ourselves pushes us to succeed.

## Christians Lead the Way with Faith

A perfect example of faith is Magnus Patricus who returned to pagan Ireland in the fifth century as a missionary and preached the Gospel of Christ to the same Druids who had kidnapped him! This man certainly had faith.

That man - known today as St. Patrick - was such a revolutionary and had such faith in God, that during a 30-year-period, he won 100,000 pagans to Christ and changed the course of Ireland!

Only faith could have pushed Francis Xavier to accomplish what he did

Only a Spirit-filled Evangelical crusader could have done what Francis Xavier accomplished for the Lord in the 16th Century.

He wanted to become an engineer, so that he would be remembered. Someone encouraged him to enter the ministry. I'm sure he must have been influenced by the writings of Martin Luther, because he became a flaming Missionary Evangelist! A great revival broke loose in India and 30,000 Hindus were converted to Christ and baptized. His heart yearned to reach the pagan land of China with the Gospel, but all doors were closed.

Francis Xavier died in 1552 at 46 years of age still trying to negotiate entry into China. Just before his death he cried out: "O' Thou Great Wall, when wilt thou open so that the Rock (Jesus Christ) can come inside"?

### Billy Graham has faith

Evangelical preacher, Billy Graham continues to have strong faith and to be a conscience to the world, preaching the Gospel and reminding everyone that the 'Blood of Jesus Christ' shed by God's eternal Son on Golgotha - so many years ago - to atone for our sins!

At over 80 years of age, God's 'great trumpeter', Billy Graham has no plans to retire, even though he has recently suffered ill health and weakness. This is because of his strong faith. Faith that enables you to continue to believe, continue to push forward. A study of Billy Graham's life is indeed a study in faith!

### Check Out the Politicians Who Have Faith

Who cannot help but admire former USA President Ronald Reagan. This was a man who fought so long to get the top job in that country? This is a man of great faith. His presidency surged with energy and optimism even after an assassin's attempt on his life. He still continued to have faith in the world, faith in his beliefs and faith that he could defeat communism. His legacy will always be the defeat of world communism and the dissolution of the "Evil (USSR) Empire"!

Even up the time he rest in peace Ronald Reagan battled the unremitting Alzheimer's disease, he keeps his chin up and outlook bright!

We must mention "the little guy from Chiwingan", PM Jean Chretian, the politician constantly referred to in the political circle as "Yesterday's Man"! Although his credibility has been badly damaged due to the disastrous outcome of his onetime Quebec Referendum - many charge him of being asleep at the wheel - Chretian is nevertheless a man of remarkable courage and determination and faith. Jean Chretian won election again by promising 'JOBS, JOBS, JOBS' and told Canadians to simply relax and feel good about themselves, have faith in him and in their selves, and it worked!

How sad, however, that early this year most people in the world were unhappy, depressed and feeling hopeless about the future.

They had certainly lost their faith. According to a new UN report, Canada has the highest rate of suicides anywhere in the industrial world. Without doubt, this particular nation has drifted away from our moral moorings by listening to the secularist, immoral and perverted pleadings of the out-of-step segment of politicians and media, who seek to justify their own unrighteous life-styles by brainwashing others to do the same!

## Two groups: Builders and Wrecking grew!

While many would shirk from their post and shrink away in fear, others stand up and are counted as men of faith. They have faith in God and that is the most important. When you have faith, everything else will fall into place.

### The Pessimist and the Optimist

I am an optimist with trust and faith in God for today and hope for the future! The pessimist is a prophet of doom while the optimist is a bearer of glad tidings. Pessimism is born of unbelief and is a negative force while optimism is the product of faith and is a positive power!

Pessimism kills, negativism destroys, but optimism gives opportunity the chance to knock on your door. There is nothing as dull and lifeless as pessimism and nothing as refreshing as optimism! A pessimist breeds discouragement in the lives of others, while an optimist multiplies the glow in his heart to those around him!

### People with Faith Solve Problems While People Without Faith Create Problems

There have always been two groups in every society: the ones who create problems and those who solve them! Some are part of the 'builders' and others make up the 'wrecking crew'. A certain element likes to create chaos and are labelled 'trouble makers', while others seek to negotiate as 'peace makers'.

Jesus rebuked His disciples after His resurrection for "their unbelief and hardness of heart because they believed not that He was risen from the dead"! Herein lies the tragedy. Far too many are guilty of these two sins - unbelief and hardness of heart - today!

### Unbelief is sin and is the opposite of faith

Unbelief is sin and the very opposite of faith, and a hard heart can be cruel, condemning, judgmental and critical! I would far sooner be "an easy mark" for those seeking to 'con' me, than to be guilty of being hard-hearted! Only a real encounter with Jesus Christ can change the heart of man. The Bible says, "Without faith it is impossible to please God". (Heb. 1:6), but if we can believe, all things are possible!

And that is the very best news. Continue to have faith and you will see the results.

# Chapter 7

# THE LAWS TO SUCCEED

Though everyone would like to be and be thought a success, yet most people fail without knowing why. Do you know what success is? Most people have no idea of how to define success, let alone how to achieve it. Nor have they been taught the laws that govern it. Almost no one has been taught that such laws exist. Yet they do! Here is priceless knowledge. All you must do is apply it!

I have never met anyone who truly wanted to fail. Everyone wants to be considered successful, and to be successful. Yet most have no idea how to achieve SUCCESS. And they are not sure how to recognize it if they see it—either in themselves or in others. Supposed "higher" education has never taught it. Nor have most understood that there are basic, specific LAWS that must be employed to reach success. Just what is success? So many seek it, having never defined it. As a result, very few people ever really achieve true success. And most never actually sit down and try to analyze the reasons for their failure. Most are certainly capable of recognizing that they have failed—but they cannot explain WHY!

Though some might feel they are destined to fail, this is not true. Men and women of all ages can achieve success. But they must understand and practice the right formula—and only after they understand exactly what they are trying to achieve!

## Hypothesis on the Subject of Success

Many believe that success involves achieving a certain amount of WEALTH. Their only purpose for being is to accumulate money and material goods. As one man said, "The goal is to see who can die with the most toys." They seem to believe that only by having a significant "net worth" (and many possessions) can they say that they have "arrived." Yet these same people never find true happiness at the end of the "money rainbow."

Others come to believe that success is a reflection of how much POWER they have. It is as though the measure of their life is counted by their influence over people, events or even economic, governmental or world affairs. Such people usually have "controlling" personalities. To them, success is how much—or how many—they control. Generally speaking, these people are more miserable than those who seek wealth. And they often make others around them even more miserable than themselves. They usually live in fear of losing their power.

Still others hope to achieve FAME. These people are often driven by a need to be known. The more who are aware of their name, the better? They seek to possess "name recognition." Of course, everyone would love to enjoy at least their "15 minutes of fame."

But not everyone believes that fame equals success. And those who are famous represent probably the most miserable "success" category.

In every case, the people who appear to have achieved success have gained a certain level of status. Whether that success involves wealth, power and influence, or fame, a certain status in comparison to others has been reached. In other words, success involved elevating oneself above others.

Very few are ever considered to be a success without having obtained one or more of these commonly described elements of status.

Think for a moment! And be honest. How many people can you think of who you consider truly successful, but who do not fit into one of these categories? I doubt you can think of many, if any.

### Flourishing People?

What about people generally thought to have achieved success in their fields? Let's briefly consider some examples.

Some time ago, a great baseball player died. Whenever famous athletes die, sports writers delve into their accomplishments by examining their statistics in comparison to other "greats" in the same sport. Most sports writers and fellow baseball players considered this "hall of famer" to be the greatest hitter of all time. At age 19, he had openly declared, "I want to be the greatest hitter who ever played the game."

He achieved his goal. Yet he was married three times and generally considered to be a very unhappy person. He maintained a love-hate relationship with fans in his team's city for over twenty years. He despised the press until the day that he died because of a single item they wrote about him at the beginning of his career. His children went on to fight over his remains—with one son seeking to freeze and clone him into more identical great hitters. Before his own untimely death, this son hoped to "bring him back to life."Is this success? Did this man's life reflect success?

Many great athletes achieved the records and resulting recognition that they did because they set out to accomplish them. But usually by their thirties, they could no longer compete and perform at the world-class level that they once did. Eventually, their records were always broken by someone who was a little bigger, better, faster or stronger. Before long, most of their feats on the field of competition were forgotten.

Did recognition by their peers, fans and sports writers of their era mean that they were a success?

What about movie stars or popular musicians? Some achieve a level of worldwide fame practically unparalleled in any other endeavour. They are virtually viewed as gods and goddesses. They are pampered, continually written about and photographed, and often become extremely wealthy, having as many as five or six homes in various parts of the world. Yet, when many cannot find happiness within several marriages, they turn to alcohol, drugs, sex and, in many cases, suicide.

### Do These People's Lives Reflect True Success?

Consider the great captains of industry. Many command enormous salaries and wealth, and wield great power within multi-billion dollar corporations. They live their lives as the "rich and famous." And yet, an almost endless string of unfolding daily scandals reveals that many of these "captains" wanted even more money and more power—and were willing to break laws and practice corruption in order to accumulate what they sought. In the end, they had no principles—and seemingly little or no character.

### Were These Really A Success?

And what of the more respectable great business tycoons of just 100 years ago? After being gone so long, who remembers what they accomplished—assuming anyone even remembers their names? How many people today concern themselves with the net worth of J.P. Morgan? And how many even know who he was? How many remember Carnegie, Mellon, Dantata and many more.

Were such men truly successful? What did their wealth and fame gain them? If they couldn't "take it with them," and they have been largely or entirely forgotten, what good did it do them—what permanent success did it bring? Whatever "success" they achieved was temporary—at best a fleeting illusion.

I read recently of one multi-millionaire who proclaimed, "Ever since I was three years old, the only thing I wanted was to make money. I wanted to own more university properties than anyone in the world." This man went on to receive a long prison sentence for drug-related charges and the government seized everything that he had. Ultimately, where did his goals take him? What did they achieve for him?

Many years ago, another man said: my father sold one of his businesses to a man who had been one of my childhood friends. He told my father, "My goal is to be a million dollars in debt." He explained that his reasoning was "if I am that far in debt, it means that I have so many irons in the fire that something has to pop." Because the nature of my father's business had peaked, he sold it at the right time. My father enjoyed reminding me that he had certainly "helped your (my) friend toward his goal."This is an unusual example. But it shows how some people's values and goals can become terribly mixed up.

Ask another question: Did famous authors or inventors truly achieve success, simply because their works outlived them? If you answer yes, are you sure? On what basis were they a success?

Are you absolutely certain your definition of success is the correct one? If most people's view of success is correct, then why is there so much misery in the lives of people who have achieved human wealth, power and fame? Why do they often change mates like they were changing shoes? Why are so many of these "success stories" quietly delving into drugs, alcohol, overwork, free sex, materialism, escapism and pleasure-seeking? Why are their lives empty—devoid of meaning?

Why are their children often shameful examples that evidence miserable home lives? Why, when asked, do so many say that wealth, power and fame was not satisfying? Why are so many unable to handle "accomplishment"?

## You Are Not Wired To Fail!

Thinking of the world at large, so many elderly people especially in the recent time depend on government programs and various kinds of aid to survive. Vast numbers are dependent when they should be independent. As they reach old age, they feel uncertain and worried, because they never plotted the course of their life toward a clear and definite end. They had never set out to achieve true success.

Here is why this happens to so many! The general assumption is that success is largely a by-product of one's natural ability. It is as though "you have it or you don't." Most think they have little control over their own success or failure. They have been programmed by common assumptions to believe that they cannot do much to change their level of achievement in life.

Is this true? Is success or failure entirely connected to talents one is born with?I learned that people's success was far more connected to the desire to produce, learn, grow and achieve than to any other reason.

Yet, I found that virtually all those who did not succeed, could have—if they had known and applied the LAWS to success. I came to realize that people fail by choice, not by inherited traits—their "genetics." I learned that people have far more control over the direction of their lives than they realize, or are willing to admit.

So, most languish throughout their lives believing there is little or nothing they can do to achieve the success they long for.

### "Short Cut Riches" Syndrome

Once again, most do not understand that there are absolute, definite rules that must be applied on the path to a specific, carefully established goal. Neither do most even try to figure out the one great goal toward which they should point their lives to achieve. Yet these same people would be only too eager to be handed great sums of money, if it involved expending only minimal effort.

Let me prove this!

How many people buy lottery tickets? It must be many millions. For just the effort of purchasing a fifty-cent or one-dollar ticket, these many millions hope to "hit it big." They want something for nothing. How many of these same people, or others like them, enter every conceivable kind of sweepstakes in hopes of "winning big"? Television ads continually depict the winners being surprised at their front door.

Then there are game shows. Invariably, these programs all come back to the hope of someone taking home winnings for simply giving better answers in a half-hour contest.

Until recently, when the problem and recklessness of the American credit crunch affected the economics of the whole world; Stock Markets enjoyed an historic run-up in value, year after year. People grew to assume big profits simply because they handed their money to investors. Like all market "booms," eventually a rapidly declining market began to diminish or wipe out the savings of a great many investors. Large numbers of people became angry and felt cheated. Why? Because they had become accustomed to believing they should receive large annual dividends automatically, with almost no effort, except to cash the checks or read reports and watch the value of their investment continually GROW!

There are also numerous kinds of "pyramid schemes" where people can make "big money" fast. Telemarketers continually advertise on television, mass-mail faxes and phone messages in hopes of finding "takers." While I was at the office a few days ago, my answering machine took a call that I have transcribed here as an example of how I could "easily make money." It is one of many that I receive:

"Hi, this is [name]. Sorry that I missed you. Normally I would mail you an invitation, but, due to the time frame, I decided it would be better to call to personally invite you to a free hands-on demonstration for the most exciting new product launch ever. We're going to be presenting this new product for the first time in your area for those who want to enhance their family's lifestyle. This is not a get-rich-quick scheme, multi-level marketing or vending. It is a real business. In fact, there is nothing you can purchase in this show and no sales pressure to do anything. So leave your cheque book and debit cards at home. By simply attending you will, however, receive a two-night, three-day vacation certificate to one of twenty popular destinations. So, if you're serious about generating a six-figure income, we can show you how in our two and a half-hour presentation. If you want to be a part of an eight-billion-dollar or pound industry that consumers use every day, we can show you how to start this business with no out-of-pocket expense. The only question is, are you committed enough to attend the presentation? Seating is limited but call to reserve a seat for you and a guest, toll free at [phone number]. Again, sorry I missed you and sorry for the length of the call."

This very deceptive and was exactly what the caller said it was not—a get-rich-quick scheme. It attempted to "hook" people into inquiring about it without telling them in advance what they were inquiring about. There was no explanation of what the "product launch" was about. Psychological bait was offered by implying that people "committed enough" would be there, if they did not move too slowly because "seating is limited." The "don't bring any money" pitch was intended to disarm the customer. These tactics often work.

Sadly, it has been my experience that many pursue these kinds of "opportunities" to their own hurt and suffering. All too often I have had to counsel people who got into a financial mess because they thought they could get a "free lunch"—something for nothing. In actual fact there is nothing that is free in life.

Finally, there are those who pursue what could be called the ultimate get-rich-quick scheme—they rob banks or steal in other ways. In other words, through crime, they simply take what is not theirs—to get rich.

In one sense, thieves are not much different than those who try "regular" get-rich-quick schemes. In every case, these people all lust after—covet—money. But their lack of character has not crossed the threshold of criminal behaviour. They pursue the same immediate riches, but choose means society defines as lawful.

### Not Fulfilling

Get this point straight! Those who "win" at these various schemes never find real happiness—or achieve true success. Their money could not even buy them success. It is not a commodity that can be purchased, any more than it can be won by chance or luck. No, the easy way will never bring true success or happiness!

I have known many millionaires and multi-millionaires in my life. This includes several either living or deceased. I can report that not one of them achieved their financial success through schemes. They all seemed to understand that these schemes rarely work and, when they did, they brought riches that were usually fleeting at best.

Invariably, the wealthy people that I have known practiced at least four of the first six of the laws to success. In theory, a lottery winner could become a multi-millionaire after practicing none of them. But I have never known such a person. Again, those I knew always practiced several, or even as many as six, of the laws to success.

Yet not a single millionaire I have known ever practiced the seventh law!

Every millionaire eventually dies. There are no exceptions to the rule that all die (Heb. 9:27)! In every case, the wealth, power and fame—and even the recognition of the most famous of people—dies with them. Nor was enjoying these things sufficient to keep them alive. Although some very few may be remembered for some period beyond their lifetime, none have knowledge of this from the grave. And even the remembrance of the accomplishments of their lives is fleeting.

### Character Matters

There are also many other aspects of character that are generally considered to be virtuous qualities. It is no doubt true that one must be courteous, loyal, hard working, honest, always on time, dependable, patient, and probably much more, to have any hope of being successful in this world. Almost everyone understands most of these qualities, but few—and fewer every day—exhibit them.

But these are all completely outside the enormous importance of the seven laws of success that this booklet will carefully describe. This will be clear.

## Be Acquainted with the Laws

### The First Law: SET THE RIGHT TARGET!

Many different kinds of goals can be set throughout life. Everyone understands this. Some goals can be small—others medium—and still others could be considered large or very large goals. While defining the size of a goal is arbitrary, all would certainly agree that there are many different kinds and sizes of goals that human beings set.

I have known many who regularly establish goals for themselves. You probably have, and do. I know that I do. One could have a goal to "get the garden in" (a small goal) or obtain a college degree (a large goal). Painting the house, taking a vacation, seeking and achieving a pay raise, getting married, having three children, losing weight, buying a house, learning to play an instrument, excelling in a sport, learning to give a speech in public, breaking or building a habit, reading a book—and a thousand other things—are all goals of one size or another.

There is nothing wrong with any of these goals. Many of them, or others like them, are very important to having a productive and full life. But none are anything close to establishing the overall RIGHT GOAL.

Most drift along aimlessly, having no purpose to their lives. They have no idea what success is—or that it is directly connected to the first law. As a matter of fact, understanding the correct definition of success is the first law. While many regularly do define and set lesser, short-term goals, virtually everyone is ignorant of this vital first law of success!

Almost invariably, people allow circumstances to dictate the course of their lives. Few actually sit down and plan in advance what they hope or want to achieve over a long period of time. Certainly, even fewer determine in advance what they want their life to have achieved when it comes to an end. And even if one did set many short, medium and long-term goals, including goals that spanned many, many years, or even an entire lifetime, this is of no value unless they have established the RIGHT goal. For only the goal based on the correct understanding of true success can be considered the RIGHT goal.

Few actually even take time to analyze whether or not there should even be a great, over-arching PURPOSE to human life. A few philosophers and "thinkers" have spent much time and thought on such a goal—but all have failed to deduce the right answer. But again, most make no such effort to do what only a few seem interested in learning or "figuring out."

While many rich and prominent men, including those whose wealth and status led to great fame and recognition, achieved such prominence by seeking it, it still died with them because it was the WRONG goal.

So then, one absolutely must set the RIGHT goal to achieve TRUE SUCCESS!

### The Second Law: LEARNING!

Virtually everything that anyone does involves having some basic education—some know-how—in order to do it. This is not hard to understand.

Consider for a moment. If the tyre on your car goes flat, it takes at least a little knowledge to be able to fix it. The same is true of painting a house. Something more than a little knowledge is required to do this correctly. During college, I help painted my uncle houses. Even having had some little experience with painting during my teenage years, I had to recognize that there was still much to learn in order to master house painting. I am glad that I did, because it meant a good income and sufficient experience that I could help paint my own house later in life, and teach my boy to help me when I do it.

Concert pianists practice for many years, and perhaps tens of thousands of hours, to become so accomplished. They must learn to play the piano. Many private lessons, and advanced education and knowledge are necessary to achieve such a high level of competence with the keys and pedals of a piano.

Becoming a rocket scientist requires extensive education in physics, chemistry, astronomy and certain other aspects of science and aerodynamics. A vast amount of complex knowledge is absolutely necessary to achieve success in this field. Nearly everyone understands this.

Try to think of a single thing—tying a shoelace, flying a kite, driving a car, building a house, cooking a meal, writing a college textbook—that does not require at least a certain know-how, and possibly a great amount of knowledge.

What animal has to LEARN to do what it does? Animals function on instinct from the moment they leave the womb. God has merely programmed into animals, through instinct, everything they need to function effectively within their environment.

When a kitten is born, it knows instinctively where to find mother's milk and what to do after it does. It need not be taught this basic knowledge. The same is true of every other kind of mammal. They are born with certain instinctive knowledge sufficient for them to survive within their environment.

I am not saying that animals cannot be taught to do certain tricks. With patient training, elephants, dogs, horses and various other animals can perform on command. But this is far different than being able to design, imagine, plan, reason and think in a directed way toward a goal or anything else.

On the other hand, humans are capable of acquiring knowledge, making decisions, exercising will and developing moral and spiritual character. People do not instinctively know everything necessary to function successfully in life. They must continually acquire more knowledge throughout their lives to address new challenges and demands made upon them. This is the single biggest difference between men and animals.

Human beings must educate themselves—gain knowledge—in order to do or achieve anything of worth in life. They must learn throughout life, continually acquiring more knowledge. This is itself fundamental knowledge.

The amount of knowledge in many fields of study has sufficiently advanced so that people must now acquire much specialized EDUCATION in order to achieve their goals. They must learn to do—and be good at—their chosen profession. Many never seem to comprehend this most basic understanding.

The advanced fields of chemistry, biology, geology, astronomy, engineering, history, medicine and many more are now available for study, because men have searched out and acquired vast amounts of information in these fields. Colleges and universities around the world teach them, requiring students to study, which allows them to educate themselves in their chosen profession.

But understand. In order to achieve a true education in right MORALS and PRINCIPLES, one must learn how to live—not just how to earn a living. There is a big difference! Learning morals, spiritual principles and laws—and the great law of cause and effect—are all extremely important in receiving a well-rounded education sufficient to prepare one to achieve true success.

If basic knowledge and education are necessary to understand how to succeed with any physical task or chosen profession, how much more important is it to receive an education in the great spiritual values of life?

No one would consider their education complete without some knowledge of literature, music, art and history. Why then do so many think their education is complete without learning much or any of the most important knowledge of how to live? Why do so many believe they must simply earn a living? Why do so many neglect the importance of RECAPTURING TRUE VALUES? Why do so few seek to know if there is a PURPOSE for human life?

If the answers to these questions were better understood, this sick, troubled, confused, miserable, war-torn, poverty-stricken, disease-plagued world would have more happy people than it does.

Ignorance of the true values of life has taken man to his current decadent, degenerate state. Modern false education has set aside right knowledge. The education of this world is shot full of false values, principles and the doctrines of "no absolutes" and "situation ethics." Colleges and universities are pumping out millions of young people who have no moral compass to direct them in making the many decisions they must face. They are ships without rudders!

RIGHT EDUCATION is the great second step in achieving true success!

### The Indispensable Third Law: FINE WELLBEING!

Your body is composed of physical matter. You consist of chemicals arranged in certain proportion to one another. The biblical book of Genesis states, "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Genesis2:7).

You are made out of dust. Dust is made of physical matter. There is no escaping the fact that you must eat food, drink water and breathe air for continued existence. Without any of these physical substances, for even a short time, you will die! You are utterly dependant on them for your survival. So many lack even the most rudimentary knowledge of how to achieve and maintain good health. They seem to believe that "food is food" and "what's the difference if one eats in any particular way?"

Most people have no concept that diets can be either right or WRONG! The majority load themselves with fatty, greasy foods. Or many other types of foods that could only be described as "sugar bombs" or vast amounts of carbonated "soda pop" accompanied by insufficient water intake. Most have no idea that, like oil to an engine, water cools, cleans, lubricates and generally improves the condition of the body. They have no idea that they should drink significant amounts of water, well beyond simply sipping when they are thirsty.

It is a well known fact that fruits CLEANSE the body, vegetables BUILD it, grains SUSTAIN it and herbs help to HEAL the human body. Many doctors know this. So do pharmaceutical companies, who derive many medicines from plants.

Yet few parents actually teach their children—and this is an important part of right education—that to achieve success in life they must be HEALTHY!

No one likes to be sick. No one enjoys a feeling of lack of energy. Ill health and disease do not enrich the life. On the contrary, they rob a person of (and potentially can block altogether) the ability to go on to real success. If one has set the right goal and achieved a proper education, and yet suffers from poor health and has insufficient knowledge to correct it, reaching true success is almost an impossible dream.

The world is ignorant of the fact that God has outlined in His Word (Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14) many kinds of land animals, sea creatures and birds of prey that are scavengers—and are not good for food. This is revealed knowledge and is most critical to understand if one is to enjoy good health. Only the Bible reveals these unclean creatures for what they are.

Most people eat devitalized foods that have been stripped of most of the important minerals necessary for good health. Millions eat daily what could only be described as "foodless food." They eat breakfast cereals that are loaded with sugar and filler materials that provide little more than empty, unmeritorious calories.

With the invention of television and many other labour-saving devices, most who live in the modern age no longer exercise as they should. Many are sedentary—"couch potatoes" sitting in front of their television or computer screen, eating potato chips, candy, snacks and various other kinds of junk food. This deadly mix has left the majority of people in western "civilization" overweight and undernourished—and devitalized of energy.

Human beings are given to extreme. They either exercise too much or too little—or not at all. I now walk over two miles every day with my wife, who walks over three miles a day. I want to be vigorously healthy, and I am. I know why I was born—I understand life's great purpose. And this inspires and spurs me on to take care of my health so that I may fulfil it.

I have suffered from ill health and injuries that were sometimes caused by carelessness. It is frustrating to lie in a bed or use a cane to walk. It reduces one's effectiveness—it limits one's capability and productivity. I have never enjoyed being sick. Neither do you.

While lessons can be learned from illness and disease, this is not a natural state of being. God did not intend that people get sick. But when they violate the law of cause and effect, invariably, this is the result. For the most part, people choose to get sick. Illness and disease are not random predators that knock on some people's doors and pass by others. Generally, they are by-products of ignoring the principles of good health.

Let me mention that one principle of good health is to avoid accidents as much as possible. Be reasonably careful and circumspect about what you do and how you do things. Carefully thinking through how to avoid injury, in certain circumstances, can eliminate a lot of unnecessary pain and anguish.

Even a cursory study of the rich and "successful" of this world reveals that most of them enjoy somewhat better than average health. They are generally more aware of nutrition, exercise and proper rest. They generally seem to understand that their body is a resource. Like any non-renewable resource, they can use it up!

This need not be you, if you obey the third law of success—GOOD HEALTH!

### The Fourth Law, Largely Imperative: OBLIGE!

I have known many who kept the first three laws of success, but never progressed to the vitally important fourth law. They seemed to understand real success, and that they needed a good education, and the importance of enjoying good health. But they never actively drove themselves toward their goal. They never used their education, health and understanding of success with the critical ingredient of DRIVE to achieve what they sought.

Most people expend energy as though they want to see how little they can use to get by. It is as though they want to slip by doing the bare minimum, and still hope to succeed. Only the most gifted and lucky ever achieve any kind of lasting success if they neglect to employ DRIVE. This cannot be overstated.

I am not naturally a morning person. I have had to learn—TRAIN myself—to get up in the morning. Through most of my years in the Polytechnic, I swam something like a mile every morning. This was only one of three daily practices that I had, before and after also attending class. I had a goal and I drove myself to achieve it. I knew I did not have as much natural ability as a great athlete, but I determined, by training myself to think this way, to drive myself to work harder than any of my opponents. As a result, I beat many better athletes.

Developing this practice early in life taught me that I could physically accomplish far more than I ever thought possible, if I started with good health—and then drove myself. I even learned a kind of addiction to pain and fatigue when I was training as a swimmer and in various other sports. I have never forgotten the lesson that I can do far more than I initially thought possible, if I was just willing to push myself to go "the extra mile."

The rewards were thrilling—even exhilarating—and I did not want to give up that feeling of accomplishment!

Wise King Solomon once said, "The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul" (Prov. 13:19). Everyone enjoys completing important tasks. This is truly satisfying—"sweet to the soul." But this cannot be done without recognizing and utilizing the extremely important fourth law—DRIVE!

### The Significant Fifth Law: CREATIVITY!

Understanding the laws of success would be incomplete if one did not recognize that things can go wrong, or can be harder and more complex than initially anticipated. In fact, few things are as easy as they seem.

Often, one has to sit down and think through how to best tackle unexpected obstacles and hurdles that appear on the path to success. Invariably, there are so many of these in life that the wise person trains himself to "expect the unexpected."

While it is important to anticipate unexpected roadblocks in your quest to achieve, it is not nearly as important as demonstrating the RESOURCEFULNESS to surmount them. Whatever obstacles fall across your path must be addressed and resolved. This takes determination and the willingness to think through the different alternatives—the various possible solutions—that can be applied so that you can progress toward your goal.

If life was always easy, and if the path was always smooth sailing, anyone could succeed by employing only the first four laws of success. But life is not like this. Unanticipated problems, difficulties, pitfalls, and resistance require constant RESOURCEFULNESS for one to succeed.

You must carefully train yourself to remain calm in crisis. Panic accomplishes nothing, except to panic others around you and waste time. I learned long ago that fretting, worrying and panicking never removed the obstacle that I was facing. It did not change or even diminish it. This reaction merely delayed me, often causing loss of precious time that could have been spent travelling toward the next obstacle, had I employed RESOURCEFULNESS immediately after spotting whatever problem confronted me.

One of early school teacher and a distant relative is one of the most astute men I have ever met. During his thirty-year tenure with Encyclopaedia Britannica, he wrote or guided all of their best ads, and his leadership multiplied sales several times over, by a great many millions of dollars. He is also an accomplished Lincoln, Custer and Civil War historian, and strategist. He is a very successful man who possesses a great imagination. I have sought to copy him since I was a small child.

It was a combination of all of the above qualities that enabled him to once tell me: "Johnson, you must always out-think your opponents." The first time he said this to me, I did not really grasp how important this principle was. In time, I began to realize it was virtually all-important. I came to realize that most people do not do this—and have never been taught to do it.

Opponents are not always people. Every problem, difficulty, resistance, hurdle and roadblock that you face is, in a sense, an opponent. Determine to out-think them! Look each one in the eye and say, "It's you or me, friend—and it's not going to be me!" Practice this and you will get better at it. It will become more natural. Eventually, you will even find yourself thriving on it, enjoying the challenge of defeating enemies that want to defeat you. The "thrill of victory" will begin to regularly replace the "agony of defeat" that consumes so many people who do not know that they must apply calm, careful reason to problems in order to defeat them.

Never forget: To achieve true success, practice RESOURCEFULNESS!

### The Abandoned Sixth Law: DETERMINATION

Even practicing the fifth law will be insufficient to ensure victory—true success—if you do not continually employ the sixth law. To habitually practice the fifth law, one will almost automatically find himself on the edge of practicing the sixth law of success.

Once again, life is not easy. Christ taught, "Enter you in at the strait [difficult] gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in there: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and FEW there be that find it" (Matt. 7:13-14).

Christ understood that only a few would pay the price to become a Christian. He knew that most would view the true Christian path as too difficult, too contrary to the easy path that nearly everyone chooses in life. They would not focus on the reward, but instead would draw back from the price, believing it to be too great for what they could "get" out of real Christianity.

Enjoying the sweet taste of success comes at a price. Unfortunately, most are not willing to pay it. Like one choosing to buy a particular watch, and then finding that it is too expensive—while it is the one carefully chosen and desired—most will simply settle for a cheaper watch. They are unwilling to save for the purchase, because they do not want to "pay the price." They accept something less when they did not need to.

Achieving success requires sticking to the goal. It requires perseverance, often called stick-to-it-liveness. Winston Churchill admonished World War II Great Britain to "never, never, never give up." With the help of other allied forces, they went on to victory against Hitler and the Axis powers—the entire course of world history was changed. I have often thought that this great statesman's inspiring stir to action, explaining that the British would (I am paraphrasing) "fight them in the air, fight them in the fields, fight them in the cities, and fight them on the beaches," was one of the most remarkable examples of perseverance and continuous, undying courage that I have ever seen. An entire generation may have turned and survived on this single man's words!

As a child, I was never allowed to be a "quitter." While my parent usually allowed me to choose certain sports, hobbies or school coursework, he never allowed me to quit after I made my choice. That was out of the question—unthinkable to him.

As a result, the thought of quitting or giving up is one of the most repugnant things I can think of. I am enormously grateful for having been forced (for I would not have naturally chosen this way) by my parent and additional circumstances later in life, to practice PERSEVERANCE in the face of resistance.

If, upon facing a trial or opposition, one is resourceful one, two or three times, and then gives up—quits—resourcefulness was not enough to ensure success. STICK-TO-IT-LIVENESS became necessary, but was lacking.

So few seem to understand that they must press on—and on— AND ON! If you can train yourself to paint a house, ride a bike or play a piano, you can train yourself to think—and live—this way. Do not let yourself believe or settle for less!

Continuing on, under Christ's constant supervision, has never been easy. But, because it is the Church of God—and because we have never given up—we are not only surviving, but we are thriving and taking the gospel of the kingdom of God around the world. Despite the enormous opposition we suffered in the early days of our existence, this Work of Christ is succeeding in a way that none would have believed possible. If it is Christ's Work, and is to remain His Work, we must follow His words, "but he that ENDURES to the end shall be saved" (Matt. 24:13; 10:22). This we are determined to do. And in every goal in life, you must do the same.

Train yourself to be repulsed at the very idea of quitting. Train yourself to be ashamed and embarrassed at just the thought of it. Tell yourself that whatever options may be at your disposal, quitting is not one of them, as long as you have established the right goal. By the time you have employed the first five laws of success, the last thing you must ever allow to creep into your mind is neglect of the vital sixth law, which requires patient continuance toward your objective.

Incessantly, relentlessly, persistently and continually stick to your goal! Never give up! Never become a quitter! Never throw in the towel! Practice PERSEVERANCE to the end!

### The Famous Seventh Law: CONTACT WITH, DIRECTION FROM AND CONTINUOUS HELP OF GOD

Having learned and determined to practice the first six laws, you are still one very long step from any hope of achieving true, lasting success. Yet, while most, with much effort, and the application of human reason, could discern the first six laws of success, they could never discover the overlooked seventh law.

Some few men, counted as great by the "great" of this world, have been able to learn and practice the first six laws. They have become successes in the eyes of their peers and society. But this has not made them a TRUE SUCCESS! They have fallen one giant step short of the final goal. If they had held this important key, this would not have happened. The sum of their lives would have been entirely different!

### The Capstone

At this point, important explanation must be given to establish in your thinking the enormous capstone seventh law. In reality, though I have chosen to address it last, it is actually the first law of success, in order of importance. Let's understand.

Nothing in life of any real value can occur apart from God. All spiritual growth, development and progress are blocked without this law firmly in place in one's mind. Therefore, it is really the starting point to real growth on the way to true success. But, I have included it last, because it is the one over-arching, all-encompassing law that mankind cannot figure out for himself. God must reveal it.

As explained, men can practice the other laws, after first systematically discerning each one for themselves. While this is so difficult that few have done it, it is possible. None of the first six laws is spiritually revealed knowledge. The seventh law—CONTACT WITH GOD—is revealed knowledge. None can discern it without God's help!

This great seventh law is the one that people are least interested in. Why? Because most people want to live on their own terms. They certainly desire success, fame, wealth—and all the "good things" of life—but not if it means obeying God. Yet, it is an all-wise, all-powerful Creator who has made the human mind and body. He knows best how it functions. Only God is able to reveal the many principles, values, laws, keys of knowledge and understanding that flow from constant daily contact with Him.

### God as a Spare

Many millions claim to seek God. But in reality, they do not. They claim to have God in their lives—to be religious. But in reality, they are not!

It is a fact of life that most people never truly seek God—never truly cry out to Him for real help—unless they are in extreme trouble. At these moments, God suddenly becomes very important. Then people really need His help. When things are going well, they do not want Him "sticking His nose in their business." They want Him to stay out of the way so they can direct their own paths, seeking their own goals and definition of success.

However, when in terrible health, grave financial difficulty, when their marriage appears shattered, or after the death of a child or other loved one, God becomes more important. The problem is that God is the last option—instead of the first, which He should be. People live as though "when all else fails, try God." Sadly, this occurs after people have rejected, dishonoured, and generally disobeyed Him for all or much of their lives. While this is better than never, it is not good enough. This is why the seventh law of success is really the first law to be applied.

You now understand why I said this earlier.

### You have a Choice

Life involves many choices, some of them great. Through Moses, God presented the nation of ancient Israel with life's ultimate choice. Notice: "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you LIFE and DEATH, blessing and cursing: therefore CHOOSE life, that both you and your seed may live" (Deut. 30:19).

This was written nearly 3,500 years ago. Yet nothing has changed. You and I are presented with the same choice. With Jesus Christ having paid the death penalty for sins (Rom. 6:23), today God offers people eternal life—if they seek and obey Him.

It is beyond the scope and purpose of this book to explain the many scriptures that describe the path to the true salvation of the Bible. To those who "choose life," God has promised something far greater than a slothful existence akin to "rolling around heaven all day."

But people must want to seek God. You were born with free moral agency. You have the right—and power—to choose DEATH. You also have the right to choose LIFE. Consider carefully what you do—the direction you choose. For no one can achieve true success if he violates either the first law, which is correctly defining success, or the seventh law, which is seeking God on the way to true success!

God inspired Jeremiah to write, "For My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water" (Jeremiah 2:13).

Take a moment to reflect on this verse. Determine not to "forsake" God, because you are also determined never to drink from a glass that "will not hold water." The false pagan beliefs, taught by the churches of this world, are "leaky glasses"—"broken cisterns." They do not work—and lead to failure!

King Solomon, powerful and rich

Studies have shown, as of several years ago, that as many as 20% of the CEOs of major companies study the book of Proverbs. Solomon, whom God describes as the wisest man who has ever lived, recorded this book of the Bible, along with the book of Ecclesiastes. In the latter, He described his many physical activities in pursuit of the ultimate happiness and fulfilment.

Here is a long passage describing what he did. This comes from the Moffatt translation: "Come, try pleasure and enjoy yourself...I searched my mind how to pamper my body with wine (keeping control of myself wisely all the time), how to come by folly, till I could see how best the sons of men might fair...I built mansions, planted vineyards, laid out gardens and parks in which I planted all manner of fruit-trees, making pools to water the trees in my plantations; I bought slaves, both men and women, and had slaves born within my household; I had large herds and flocks, larger than any before me in Jerusalem; I amassed silver and gold, right royal treasures; I secured singers, both men and women, and many a mistress, man's delight. Richer and richer I grew, more than any before me in Jerusalem...Nothing I coveted did I refuse myself; I denied my heart no joy—for my heart did feel joy in all this toil; so much I did get from all my efforts...But when I turned to look at all I had achieved and at my toil and trouble, then it was all vain and futile...Nothing in this world is worthwhile" (Ecclesiastes. 2:1, 3-11).

Very few have experienced as many things, in the ultimate pursuit of pleasure, as did Solomon. Take a moment to think about the expanse of what he said that he did. Yet Solomon found none of these things, or even all of them put together, permanently satisfying. They left him unfulfilled—and empty. Over time, he stopped practicing the seventh law of success (I Kings. 11:4).

Virtually no one learns or practices the seventh law of success. This is why most people never experience the wonderful happiness, contentment and peace that they should. So many unwittingly deny themselves fulfilment of these things, because they never "choose life." They never CHOOSE to seek the God who can lead them to eternal life. They never learn the reason for their existence.

No wonder so many people give up on life and commit suicide. I have known several who did this, and it was always because they had lost hope that they could have a meaningful future. They gave up and lost out on what could have been true success, had they just been willing to learn and continue on the right path.

Isaiah explained how to fill the empty human existence of those cut off from God: "Everyone that thirsts, come you to the waters, and he that has no money; come you, buy, and eat; yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfies not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat you that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness" (Isaiah 55:1-2).

Most people have absolutely no idea why they were born. They do not even know if there is a purpose for human life. Yet the Bible is literally filled with scriptures describing and emphasizing the importance of building spiritual character.

You were born to fulfil a great PURPOSE. No college or university can teach it to you. It is revealed knowledge, understood by only a FEW. God may be revealing this knowledge to you, so that you can become one of those few. Ask God for wisdom and He will give it: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all men liberally, and upbraids not; and it shall be given him" (James. 1:5).

Believe this verse. YOU can ask the same God to give you some of the same wisdom that He gave Solomon. He will answer you if you truly seek him!

This book could explain the importance of developing love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, etc. (Gal. 5:22-23). It could also explain about humility, mercy, compassion and more. But this would deviate from its stated purpose.

It is not the purpose here to explain in detail why God's Word teaches as much as it does on the subject of building character. But it is critical to recognize that none can actually be a true spiritual success in life without developing the many qualities of character described throughout the Bible.

Again, most people have not a hint, inkling or clue why they were born. They do not even know if there is a reason—a PURPOSE—for their existence. Only the Bible reveals it.

God intended that every human being become a success. He states through the apostle Paul that He "will have all men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth" (I Tim. 2:4). And through the Apostle Peter, He adds that He is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (II Pet. 3:9).

In the greatest overall sense, achieving salvation is reaching a level of TRUE andFINAL SUCCESS vastly beyond anything possible in this life. While most professing Christians would probably agree with this statement, it has not occurred to almost any of them that the greatest Author of success—GOD!—would reveal how to achieve such TRUE SUCCESS!

This is what the wealthy, the famous, the powerful, the great—the supposedly "successful"—of this world never recognized!

It is a great irony that most people ignore and reject the instructions of the very God they profess to serve—and from whom they hope to be given eternal success—salvation! Yet, in an additional ironic twist, these same people would probably line up by the millions if they could buy a copyrighted formula guaranteed to bring them success with no effort.

Now that you know the formula—THE LAWS TO SUCCESS—what will you DO with them?

### The Bottom Line!

"People trying to live without the living CHRIST in their lives are missing the most practical and valuable asset they could have. In the language of our day, 'IT PAYS OFF!' Of course, we have to expend our own effort. We have to really THINK. We use all our own resources and natural resourcefulness. But we have that added SECURITY of divine GUIDANCE. Often God simply works out CIRCUMSTANCES. He literally gives us 'the breaks'! IT PAYS!

"Finally, now, look at Success Law Number SIX. Perseverance—Stick-to-it-liveness—Enduring—Never quitting or giving up.

"The Maker's Instruction Book seems full of this. Jesus' parable of the sower and the seed showed the four classes. All heard God's Message. All were given the opportunity. Three classes GAVE UP. One never really got started. Two started out with joy and a great flourish, but let former friends, the cares of this material life, pleasures, choke them off, and discourage them. The other class of quitters simply did not have the depth of strength of character within themselves to stay with anything. They were just naturally quitters. Even of those who went on, and endured, some were more diligent, more resourceful, better prepared, more careful of health, and consequently developed farther in accomplishment than others. Theirs will be the greater reward!

"Jesus Christ said, plainly, 'He that endureth unto the END, the same shall be SAVED' (Matt. 24:13).

"Yes, these Seven Laws are the WAY, not only to business and economic success—they are THE LAWS that lead to rich, rewarding, interest-filled, abundant living and, in the end, to ETERNAL LIFE AND GLORY in the Kingdom of God.

"It teaches you to choose the RIGHT GOAL. It teaches you to STUDY, to show yourself approved to your Maker. It teaches you to acquire KNOWLEDGE, right and true education—preparation for success. It teaches you to watch your health. It teaches diligence—drive—dedication, persistent application. It teaches resourcefulness, and offers you divine help in applying it—and it teaches STAYING WITH IT TO THE END!

"WHAT A HAPPY LIFE God has made available! What blessedness—what JOY! What SECURITY, this life of implicit living FAITH—reliance on the Creator— GOD!

"I know! I've been enjoying this life for more than thirty five years! It's a BUSY life—but it's interesting, thrilling, happy, abundantly REWARDING! And to constantly look forward to the OVERALL GOAL—an eternity in THE KINGDOM OF GOD!

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# About the Author

Johnson F. Odesola is a Special Assistant to the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. He is also the Pastor in Charge of RCCG region 1, Lagos.

His initial training was in the field of Engineering before the Lord called him into full time ministry. He heard and obeyed God's call to ignite fire in the hearts of youths of this end time, for the final harvest.

He hold B.A. (Hons) degree in Theology from Greenwich School of Theology, London; Mth in Missiology/Anthropology from Queens University of Belfast, PHD in Christian Education from Ashland University, PHD in Intercultural Studies from Trinity International University. He is Professor of Divinity in Trinity International Institute of Advance Studies.

He is married to Adebisi, a pastor and child evangelist. They are blessed with three children - Titi, Uche and Enoch

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# Other Books By the Author

The following titles are books by the author

*Fresh Anointing

*From Tears to Cheers

* Don't Give Up!

*Being an Uncommon Achiever

*Destined for Victory

*Fishing for Fruitfulness

*Candidate for the Throne

*Divine Enthronement

*Movement to the Next Level

*Sexual Crimes

*The Key to a Happy Home

*Changing You Story with You Act

*Conquest over Frustration

*7 Habits of Highly Ineffectual People

*Changing Your Darkness to Daystars

*Understanding the Four Phases of Life

*The Potency of Your Word

*The Race, the Rehearsals, the Ring

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# Author's Connects

If you have been blessed by this message, you can also contact:

Pastor Johnson Funso Odesola @

Redeemed Christian Church of God Headquarters, Ebute Mata, Lagos, Nigeria

Phone: +2348035361325; +2348074368534

Email:odesolajf@gmail.com; funsoodesola@yahoo.com

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