Active Waiting

Happy Resurrection Day!  The resurrection of Jesus 2000 years ago changed everything for everybody.  God promised it would happen and it did.

Recently I woke up at 4:15am with Isaiah 40:31 rehearsing itself in my mind.  Does that ever happen to you?  Just as you are coming out of a deep sleep maybe there’s a quote, a scripture or maybe a song that just won’t seem to leave you alone?  For me, on that morning, it was something Isaiah wrote: “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.” 

Just prior to that, I had met a man who was at the end of his hope. 

Literally. 

As I recall, he had come to the church looking for help.  He was asking for a hand up, not a hand out.  He needed hope in the worst way.  Everything in his world was in total chaos and getting worse by the day.  He had hoped that there would be more work in his field of construction, but, at the time, jobs like that were scarce.  He had hoped that the relationship with his fiancé would be stronger, but it was falling apart and the pressures of not having enough money just seemed to make everything worse.  Worst of all, he had hoped that he could provide for his daughters, but times were tough and everything he tried seemed to fail.  He wasn’t just having a bad day.  He was in distress and needed something to grab onto.

More recently I had a call from someone I haven’t spoken to in at least seven years.  He explained that was waiting in the school carpool line to pick up his daughter and that he had been looking for a number in his phone when he came across my name.  He said he felt like he needed to hear a familiar voice.  As I listened, he described that he had been laid off several months ago from a high-level position and as of yet nothing of lasting significance was opening up.  He was afraid.  He cried.  I understood.  He needed hope.  

Most everyone I know has had a time in life when they’ve struggled for something solid to hold onto.  We’ve all had times when we’ve felt like what Peter must have felt as he went from walking on water to nearly drowning.  One minute he’s walking on water and I imagine him thinking, “Hey, I’m walking on water!”  Not really thinking that he’s a big deal, but more of the thought that he just did what Jesus called him to do and the next thing he knew was that he was walking on water.  Everything was working out until it wasn’t.  So long as he focused on Jesus everything worked out.  However, when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and he begin to sink.  As he sank, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 

And Jesus did. 

He reached out his hand and pulled him out of the water and as he did, yelled one word to Peter over the sound of the storm.  In English it takes four words to translate.  But in Greek it’s only one word.  Jesus yelled “Oligospistos!”  Translated that means, “You of little faith!”  What Jesus said to a man who was just saved from certain death was to call him a name.  At first it seems strange, even uncaring.  But Jesus was teaching Peter.  He diagnosed the root of Peter’s problem as fear.  Next, Jesus asked Peter a question, “Why did you doubt?” 

It’s still a valid question.

And it’s really more a lesson to be learned than a question to be answered.

Some things are hard to believe, even if they are true.  Take God’s promises, for instance.  They can be hard to believe; either because they have not happened yet, or because they are unusual or seem extreme.  The resurrection was one of those things that was hard to believe, especially for those closest to Jesus.  While all of His disciples struggled with doubt, Thomas was the last of the Twelve to believe.  Jesus came to Thomas and said, “Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27b).  Believing that God CAN do something is very different from believing that he WILL.  The promise that God will renew your strength if you’ll wait on him can be hard to believe especially when you’re afraid, or panicked or terrified. 

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“I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know…his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead…”

(Eph. 1:18, 19-20) 

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The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in everybody who believes.  When God exerts himself, dead things come back to life!  But I’ll say it again: Believing that God CAN do something powerful is very different from believing that he WILL. 

Let’s jump back to Isaiah’s words, “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.”

The word Isaiah that is translated “renew” literally means “to exchange” like changing into a new set of clothes.  Isaiah is talking about active waiting.  Whatever you are hoping in as a source for your hope, peace, or joy can be exchanged for hope in the Lord.  That promise is for everyone.  By hoping in the Lord, your weakness will give way to God’s strength.  To bring us perspective and hope Isaiah goes into great detail: God stretches out the heavens like a canopy…he brings out the stars when its time and calls each one by name an never misplaces even one of them…he never gets tired…never needs to catch his breath and he knows everything, inside and out. There’s more:

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“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope (wait) in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

(Isaiah 40:29-31) 

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I know lots of people who need their strength renewed.  Maybe you are one of them.  I know quite a few people who have set out on a course only to discover that the plan hasn’t quite happened the way they thought it would.  The question is what are you going to do next?  My tendency and desire it to fix things, to do something.  Seldom is my first thought to wait.  God says that waiting on Him always turns out well.

The prophet is speaking to you and me through time to remind us that in the Lord we have a never-ending source for hope.  That’s something that’s worth waiting for.  To hope in the Lord means to trust in or look expectantly to the Lord.  When you hope in the Lord you will not be disappointed.

Remember the man I told you about earlier?  The one that had come to see me at the church.  The one who was at the end of his hope.  As I listened to him, I thought about Isaiah’s words and recommended that he do what so many others, including myself, have done in those moments when we felt like we were sinking.  I told that we would provide food and maybe some connections, but more importantly I recommended that the most important thing he could do was to turn to the source of all hope.  I reminded him that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead was at work in him.  He agreed.  We prayed together and when he walked out, his arms were full of groceries and his heart and mind were full of hope.  He had hope because he had faith in the Lord.  He seemed encouraged.  His strength seemed to have been renewed.

What would be wrong if you actively waited on the Lord to renew your strength? 

What if your entire life was lived in only one day?  What would that look like?  What time of the day would it be for you?  Morning?  Afternoon?  Evening?  Find out in Your Life in One Day blog: https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/

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To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping, visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

“Wow! Did I need this book! Dan Holland has done a masterful job in bringing us back to what really matters when our backs are up against the “walls” of life. FAITH!…not intellect…. not talent…not money….FAITH! Read this simple, yet powerful biblically based book that can change your perspective on how to handle anything the world throws at you. Remember, God says, ‘I will never leave you!’”

Kent Allen, Vice President for Advancement, Oklahoma Christian University

 

The Power of Appreciation

Everybody wants to be appreciated.  

Living in harmony with others may be the most overlooked, but most needed, lesson on what it means to live and lead successfully.  To live in harmony with others, it is important to communicate appreciation, publicly and privately. 

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Relationships Are Like Icebergs

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If you ever go on an Alaskan cruise, you will get to see some massive icebergs.  Did you know that what you see of an iceberg above the water is usually only one-ninth of its actual volume?  Remember the Titanic?  Everything was fine.  The ship was making good time until it hit an iceberg that ripped a hole in the hull of the ship.  It wasn’t what they could see that was the problem; it was what they couldn’t see.  

It’s the same way with relationships.  One day everything can be smooth sailing.  The next thing you know, something happens that threatens to sink the unity.  No wonder we use the expression “tip of the iceberg” when describing a problem or difficulty that is only a small manifestation of something much larger. It happens in business, marriage,  Most of what a relationship is about is below the surface. Relational icebergs can be dangerous to navigate.  But not impossible.  From my experience, people either learn how to communicate appreciation effectively or they stay stuck or worse, sink a relationship.

We should enjoy times of peace and use those times to invest in relationships.  Like I’ve said, one of the most effective ways to invest in any relationship is to communicate appreciation, publicly and privately.  Commending others should be the first thing on our relationship checklist. 

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How can we show appreciation? 

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There are lots of methods to show appreciation to others.  None of them are wrong and all are better than nothing.  I’ve commended others through a timely letter, a short note in a card, a pat on the back, a text, a phone message, and even through e-mail.  I’ve also passed along compliments through others, knowing that my words would eventually hit the intended target.  

In life and business, faithful service should never be taken for granted.  It should be recognized and appreciated.  Each time you communicate appreciation to someone, you are making deposits into the relationship bank between you.  Most people BELIEVE that showing appreciation is a good thing.  Of course BELIEVING it’s a good thing and CHOOSING to do it are two different matters.  If showing appreciation and gratitude is so powerful and effective in building a healthy culture within a business, church or family than why is it often overlooked?  I think one significant reason is because it comes off as too feely-touchy and can’t be measured.  That doesn’t make it any less real.  Think of a time when you were shown appreciation.  Just the memory alone can bring a slight smile to your face or cause a slow nod of your head as you recall genuine words spoken or timely praise given to you.  Being appreciated is powerful.  

I’ve experienced the power of appreciation first hand many times but one instance stands out.

It was my twentieth anniversary, in 2009, of being the senior minister at a church.  The leaders of the church had planned a very nice sit-down meal in my honor.  They flew my mother in from Phoenix, a last-minute surprise for me.  The place was packed and I was humbled.  I must admit that it was nice to hear good things said about me, and before I was dead.  I even enjoyed the ribbing and roasting that went on that night as well.

One particular man’s words are precious to me even to this day.  Tom Jarzynka stood and reminisced about the funeral I had done for his son, Zac.  It was the largest funeral I had ever done.  Zac, and his girlfriend, Brittany Smith, both in high school, had died in a tragic car accident together.  “They were two of the most popular and polite kids at Oviedo High,” wrote Mike Bianchi in the Orlando Sentinel, on May 17, 2002.  People stood in line five hours to pay their respects and grieve with both families.

Zac and his brother had come often to our church with their mother, but Tom rarely, if ever, attended with the family.  In the weeks following the funeral, Tom and I talked a lot about God, Jesus, and baptism; and spent lots of time in specific Bible study.  It was a blessing to baptize Tom.

Now, seven years later, Tom stood to speak at the church dinner in my honor.  He said, “When people care for others the way this church cared for me and my family, it comes from the top down. It’s not an accident.”  Looking at me, he continued with a simple, “Thank you.” 

These words of encouragement and honor have stayed with me. 

I hope that you too can think of a time when someone gave you appreciation.  It’s wonderful to see people who are thankful for you and what you do.  Gratitude can also act like glue, holding together a hurting marriage, a strained friendship, or a difficult work relationship. 

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“Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit – you choose.” – Proverbs 18:21

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Sometimes appreciation is the juice that keeps you going one more day.  If that’s true for you, imagine the impact your appreciation has on others.  Make it a point to speak words of appreciation to everyone around you.  Speak words of appreciation to…

…your husband or wife. 

…your kid(s). 

…your mom or dad. 

…your co-worker. 

…your boss.

…your friend(s). 

…your enemy(s).  

Everybody wants to be appreciated.  

 

(Photo Credit: Micah Holland)

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To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping, visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

“I LOVE Dan’s new book on leadership.  Simple messages with great biblical depth to inspire. You will be blessed if you buy this book.” –Al Robertson, Author, Speaker and Star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty

Free shipping – visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.

 

Eight Peace-Pursuing Actions

What would happen if you assumed the best about others?  What if your opinions and facts were put on the back burner for a time, so you could gain understanding of a person or situation before you acted or spoke in a situation?  The best way to pursue peace on a daily basis is by constantly positioning (or repositioning) our hearts so that we put others ahead of ourselves.  

God doesn’t ask us to do things that we’re incapable of doing.  That would be cruel.  When we don’t pursue peace, it’s not for lack of ability; it’s because we don’t want to do it.  Simply said, WE CHOOSE not to pursue peace.  However, we can choose to pursue peace instead because God says we can.  It all starts with what I BELIEVE about someone.  

If you start thinking of others as better than yourself, the pursuit of peace will get easier and your actions will follow your beliefs.  What are signs that you are becoming a leader who pursues peace?  Hopefully, you will find yourself doing the following eight peace-pursuing actions more often.

1. You believe the best about others.

To live in harmony with others, it is important to avoid jumping to conclusions.  Assumption is the absolute lowest form of knowledge. Yet we do it all the time and often unconsciously.  If you are pursuing peace, you will avoid passing judgment based on mere outward appearances.  You’ll be slower to judge someone’s motives based only upon what you see or hear.  Even if something stinky might be going on, treat people with dignity and respect, allowing them the liberty to hold divergent views or give them the space to explain themselves.

2. You are willing to risk the relationship.

Often our society encourages individualism to the point that it is easy to develop an apathetic attitude toward others.  It’s a “live-and-let-live” worldly attitude. In pursuit of peace, you will love God and the other person enough to pursue peace, even if it means risking the relationship.  If you are a peace-pursuing leader, you will not have indifference toward others.  You will act in love and courage, going humbly and frankly to a friend and asking for an explanation, even if what they did seems indefensible.

3. You know how to apologize.

Rarely is the strain in a relationship as one-sided as we want to believe.  If you are pursuing peace, you will ask yourself, “How have I contributed to this conflict?”  There is great power in an apology.  Sometimes saying “This was my mistake. I’m sorry” can take a load off our backs, or turn around a situation altogether, allowing us to start over.  The bottom line is this: When tension rises in relationships, act and speak in love.

4. You listen well.

James writes, “…be quick to listen…” (James 1:19).  Have you ever had an argument all ready to go, so that you were waiting for the other person to stop talking so you could set them straight?  This is a violation of this Word of the Lord from James.  If you are a leader who pursues peace, you will be known for being quick to listen, not speak.  To truly listen is to gain understanding. Solomon wrote, “Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold” (Prov. 3:13-14).  Gaining an understanding can be life-saving.  My mom has a plaque on her wall that teaches us: “Never criticize a man until you’ve walked a mile in his moccasins.”  It’s important that we take the time to understand others as we choose to live in peace with all men.

5. You speak thoughtfully.

James also writes that we should be “slow to speak” (James 1:19).  This means we take into consideration the other person’s condition or circumstances before we respond.  It’s possible to say the right thing, but to say it at the wrong time.  It’s also possible to say the right thing in the wrong way.  If you are pursuing peace, you will be seen as one who thinks before speaking and chooses their words wisely.  You will be known as a person whose words improve relationships and situations, rather than a person out to prove a point.  Words can turn a good situation into a disaster in seconds.  Wisdom means not always saying every word that comes to mind.  Reflect on your thoughts and edit your words.  When said, they can’t be easily taken back.  Don’t try to put out a fire using gasoline.  Sometimes the best thing to do is to stop talking.

6. You keep emotions in check.

By now you’ve figured out there is a James 1:19-20 theme going on in the middle of these peace-pursuing actions.  If you are a leader who pursues peace, you will be “slow to anger,” as James says.  When anger takes over the only thing we can think about is getting what we want. T hat is why James tells us that rarely does our anger lead to the righteousness of God.  Generally, we do not make good decisions when we’re angry because we usually do not care about the consequences of our decisions at that moment.  I don’t know about you, but the angrier I become, the more convinced I am that I can read what’s going on in somebody else’s mind.  And I can’t.

7. You live in reverse when needed.

I’ve often been guilty of living in reverse.  Too many times the first step we take is to turn up the heat and bake our attitudes and thoughts for a while.  If you mess up and don’t listen, speak too quickly and angrily, put it in reverse.  Peace-pursuing leaders are humble enough to ask for a redo.  Putting others first and the pursuit of peace is not natural.  Just look at two toddlers trying to play side by side.  Parents say, “We need to share with our friends” and “We don’t hit our friends” ad nauseam until kids get it.

8. You choose gentleness.

Gentleness is a choice, not a feeling.  Monumental leaders are not ruled by emotion, but by the Word of God.  We do what’s right, not what feels good.  If you are praying for reconciliation, unity, and a sense of oneness, understand that communication must take place, and it must be done in a spirit of gentleness.  If you are a person who has been wrongly accused, you would do well to remember the wise counsel of Solomon in Proverbs 15:11: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

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“…seek peace and pursue it.” Psalm 34:14b

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These peace-pursuing actions are things each of us desires from others and they cost us nothing to give.  Peace isn’t something you will stumble upon and it can’t forced; it’s something you intentionally seek and pursue.  Will you always achieve peace?  No.  Yet, pursuing peace is like God giving you a gift because in the pursuit of peace He brings you peace of mind and you may find peace with those you never believed possible.  

Here are some questions to help you in the pursuit of peace…take time for deep thought.  Maybe when you’re with a friend over coffee or lunch have a engaging conversation using these questions as a guide.  Ask the question and then just listen. 

Do you believe others were created by God? 

If so, how do your thoughts, actions, and habits show evidence of that belief?

Are you praying for others?  How has the discipline of prayer shaped your walk with God and others?  Journal about what you have learned from investing in relationships.

Are you gentle with others?  How does this affect your leadership abilities?

To read more about Pursuing Peace click here: https://dan holland2819.wordpress.com/2019/02/24/pursuing-peace/

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To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping, visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

“In 70 Seconds Dan Holland opens a door into the life and leadership of Joshua, exploring not only the fascinating history of God’s very personal dealings with the Israelites after the wilderness wanderings, but also the driving forces that formed and sustained one of Israel’s most versatile commanders. With clear insight and warm personal anecdotes, Holland illustrates the ‘How To’ of putting faith into action and claiming God’s promises and rewards for God-given leadership at all levels. I heartily recommend this book to anyone wondering what God has in store for them, and how, exactly, to get started building a monument worthy life.”

Melanie Hunter, Partner at Hunter & Kalinke

Free shipping – visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.

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Live in Reality, not Fiction

Choose to Live in Reality, not Fiction

God promised Joshua that He would be with him, and God guarantees you the same thing. 

An example of God’s presence with Joshua occurs soon after Israel entered Canaan.  Israel was camped at Gilgal, and Joshua was out taking a walk, probably checking out his strategy for the upcoming battle with Jericho.  When Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him.  It happened suddenly.  From where had he come?  One minute he wasn’t there and in the next he was.  In that moment Joshua experienced a change in perspective, so that he could now see the man.  The man had a drawn sword in his hand, which meant that he was prepared for battle.  It was threatening.  Before we get to his question, let’s pause for a minute as Joshua is caught off guard by the sight of this man.

Sometimes what we need more than anything else is a renewed perspective that allows us to see reality.

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As I coach leaders, I often remind them that every day is a battle for perspective. 

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There’s God’s perspective and then there’s mine.  As a leader, I want to see what God sees.  There’s God’s truth and mine.  We need His.  Joshua saw something new in front of him.

Something powerful happens in the human spirit whenever we focus our attention on something outside ourselves and beyond our trouble. 

Whenever I focus my attention on Christ and the eternal life that is beyond this life, I find exceptional joy and abiding peace.  When I focus on joy, I am better able to break through obstacles that life presents.  Not always without pain and not always on the first try.  But that’s life.  We can learn to concentrate on what God says, rather than circumstances.  I wonder how much God wants His kids to look up from their myopic, small, navel-gazing concerns to see Him, standing and ready to fight.  I pray that my kids will always search for what is true and live in what’s real.  We don’t just need a different perspective from the one we already have, we need one that sees what is in front of us, one that sees what is holy and true.  A perspective that can only be seen by faith and beyond the minutia of the moment.

Joshua questioned the man about his loyalties and allegiance because he did not recognize him as a heaven-sent messenger.  Joshua asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” (Joshua 5:13).

Here was the man’s reply and Joshua’s response:

“Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”

Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, “What message does my Lord have for his servant?”

The commander of the Lord’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.”

And Joshua did so (Joshua 5:14-15). 

What a scene that must have been.  The commander of Israel’s army is meeting the Commander of the Lord’s army. I don’t want you to miss the Commander’s response to Joshua because it has some solid application for us.  Joshua wanted to know whose side He was on.  Simple.  This is not an unreasonable question between two warrior leaders. “Are you on our side or theirs?”  What does that answer “Neither” mean?  How can someone, especially a warrior, be on neither side in a battle?

God does not show up to gather opinions; He doesn’t come to choose a side.  He comes to take over.  

We are not to ask if God is on our side, although that seems like a common question.  Rather than asking, “Is God on my side?” the more appropriate question is, “Am I on the Lord’s side?”  This distinction is important today as we face many battles – physical, emotional, relational, financial, cultural, and spiritual.

The Commander continued, “…as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”  And that was it.  There isn’t a clear resolution to this encounter, but the obvious implication is the Lord will fight for Joshua and Israel as long as they maintain the proper priorities, which we saw throughout the preceding chapters.  The Lord was letting Joshua know, in no uncertain terms, that he was not fighting alone.  It wasn’t just that God was with him, but God was for him and would fight for him.  Joshua needed to be able to recognize when he was in God’s presence and that he could trust in Him.  As long as Joshua maintained his priorities, God would fight for him.  This principle still stands today: God wants our undivided loyalty and holiness in our lives.

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We are called to live in God’s presence.  Keep your priorities straight. 

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God had already promised Joshua that He would be with him just as He was with Moses, so Joshua didn’t need to worry about that.  I don’t know about you, but I tend to live better when I am cognizant of God’s presence.

God’s presence is what made that place holy.  In fact, the word “holy” is used as a reminder for Joshua of the seventy-second talk he had with God earlier.  It was a reminder that spiritual concerns, and not military preparations, were of first importance to the Israelites in their mission.  

The principle of holiness is still relevant today.  The concept of holiness: living for God because He is with us, is God’s expectation from the beginning of time.

God is with you right now.  God’s presence calls for holiness and undivided hearts, but the temptation is to see how far we can walk from God and still be okay.   Why would we not rather see how near we could live to Him?

 

To read Your Life in One Day click here: https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/

To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping, visit www.CoachDanHolland.com/

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“In 70 Seconds, Dan Holland takes a refreshing look at one of God’s seminal lessons for life and leadership. In today’s world we are often left wondering how to interpret the scriptures God has left for us. In this book Dan does an amazing job of showing us a modern-day biblical perspective that is not only highly applicable, but interesting and entertaining. I encourage you to read it and apply these principles to your life.”

Nick Nanton, Esq., EMMY® Award Winning Director/Producer; Wall St. Journal Best-Selling Author

Free shipping – visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.

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Does What I Do in Life Really Matter?

The spotlight was turned on Mandy Harvey when she received the golden buzzer on America’s Got Talent in June 2017; sending her straight to the live semi-finals.  I met her when she was interviewed at our church.  She talked about how her dream of being a choir teacher had been shattered when she lost her hearing.  She thought: Now what?  Do I matter now?  What do I do now?

Sometimes we think that when we’re defeated, the right thing to do is to withdraw, especially when we’re beaten.  It happens to all of us.  When we’re doing well, we rarely ask, “Does what I do really matter?” We ask that question when we feel defeated.  That’s the reality.

How could anyone possibly understand the feeling of desperation and the confusing emotions Mandy experienced at that time?  Her father, Joe, encouraged her to sing again.  At first, she was timid about it.  “Okay, I’ll try it,” she said, lacking confidence.  She had to rely on someone else to tell her how she sounded when she sang.  She had known how to sing and even when she lost her hearing, she could still sing.  But she couldn’t hear herself sing, so it felt like it was worthless and pointless. Let me say that again, she didn’t know how she sounded. She couldn’t critic herself. She couldn’t enjoy the thing she loved doing except through the joy it brought to others.

By relying on others, trusting her pitch, and watching tuning machines, she now sings on key, and keeps time.  Why?  Because she remembered what it felt and sounded like to do so.  We need to remember some things too.  The Lord said to Joshua, “Remember, I was with Moses and I’ll be with you.”

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.” – Hebrews 10:35

Mandy’s deafness didn’t change, but her confidence did.  Sometimes our circumstances don’t change, but our confidence can.  The Lord can give us confidence in any and all circumstances, but we tend to assess ourselves based on what we see, instead of trusting His promises to us and His presence with us.

We ask the question about whether what we do matters or not at the wrong times—usually whenever we’re feeling defeated, not when things are going well.  Because of my deep love for my kids, it would grieve me immensely if they did not live up to their potential.  And God loves His kids more than that.  The amount of love we have for our children pales in comparison to the love God has for each one of us.  We cheer for our children and God cheers even more for us.  Why wouldn’t you make every effort to live up to your God-given potential?  You and I don’t live up to our potential whenever we forget, overlook, or ignore God’s promises.  The reason we can live fearlessly is because God loves us perfectly and eternally.

Every day God votes for you.  Every day Satan votes against you.  You cast the deciding vote. Every. Single. Day. You. Vote.

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To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  Visit www.CoachDanHolland.com/

To read Your Life in One Day click here: https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/  

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“I couldn’t put it down. What a blessing it was to me! I realized right away that I have been WANDERING for the last couple of months! Reading 70 Seconds has given me a newfound energy and dedication to staying faithful and making sure that I “vote” everyday. I am now thinking that maybe this season of my life is part of God’s plan to give me rest and help me to really listen for His voice to determine what’s next for me and to choose FAITH over fear!”

– Joi Williams, former head coach, UCF Women’s Basketball; former asst. coach, WNBA San Antonio Stars

 

My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.

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You can choose to receive an email whenever I post a new blog; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

 

Powerful Questions

What Happened Here? And Other Powerful Questions

The story of Joshua is easy to follow because it has a clear beginning, middle, and ending, and is marked by seven specific monuments during the time of the conquest. Like bookmarks in the pages of history, the monuments of Joshua reminded God’s people of important choices. Each monument was—and still is—intended to spark the memory of what happened at that place, to remind God’s people of His faithfulness, and how their choices to live by faith and obedience influenced God’s involvement in their lives. God even instructed that the history and lessons be taught to future generations for their benefit. That includes you and me.

A monument or memorial can mark a victory, like the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devils Hill, North Carolina, marking man’s first flight, or sorrow and defeat like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. All monuments cause us to ask: “What happened here?” That is a powerful question about the past that can influence the way we see the future. On our journey through Joshua, we will tackle some other powerful questions. Powerful questions can potentially disrupt your world because they cause your thoughts to travel new paths.

Although disruptive, these monumental questions can help you gain clarity about your life and break free of the gravitational pull of the status quo, charting a course toward greater meaning, joy, and impact instead. Some of the questions to explore are:

• How can I stop wandering and prepare to advance?

• What are God’s promises to me?

• How can I develop faith instead of fear in unfamiliar territory?

• Will I be able to handle trouble when it comes my way?

• Do I have what it takes to persevere during setbacks (because doubt and disappointments are part of the promised life too)?

• How can I pace myself and listen to God?

• How can I make effective use of failure?

• What does it take to lead towards unity and harmony?

• How will I finish strong and prepare the next leaders?

These questions can powerfully influence the choices you make today.  Is it easy?  Sometimes, but not always.  Is it worth the effort?  Every time; because they potentially can change the direction of your one precious life forever.  

To learn how to build your life on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping, visit www.CoachDanHolland.com/

To read Your Life in One Day click here: https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/  

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“I have often said that a well-placed question can change the direction of a person’s life forever. In 70 Seconds, Dan Holland walks through the kinds of questions that have the potential to disarm you and disrupt your life. But if you want to move past your past, or you want to avoid making the same mistakes as others, I recommend you think through some of the powerful questions that he poses in this thought-provoking book.”

Rick Bezet, Lead Pastor of New Life Church; Author of Real Love in an Angry World and Be Real, Because Fake Is Exhausting

Free shipping – visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version. 

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You can choose to receive an email whenever I post a new blog; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

 

God is For You!

CHOSEN.

WE ADOPTED BOTH our wonderful kids—Micah and Ashley—at birth. Some grieve over the thought of not being able to give birth naturally, but Beth and I believe that, eight years into our marriage, it was God’s will to build our family through adoption. Like all families we’ve had ups and downs, good times and bad, but through it all they are my kids and I love them. It’s difficult for me to quantify just how much. We tell them, “You were born of our prayers.”

When I got the call that Micah had been born, I was at my office, before the days of cell phones. I did have a car phone, so I jumped in the car to go home, but was so excited that I drove in circles as I tried to get a hold of Beth and thought about what I needed from my office. I can recall details about each one. I remember the first time I held that six-pound, ten-ounce baby boy. It was love at first sight. At just two days old he stole my heart as I stared into his piercing blue eyes. From the beginning he has been alert, fun, energetic, curious, and loving—all qualities I love about him.

As I held him, I experienced a kind of love that was new and that has grown deeper and richer through the years. Although I had taught about how much God loves us before this, in that moment I began to understand the sort of love for another that is totally and completely dependent on you. He was my son; I was his dad and he was home.

Then, two and a half years later, God brought Ashley into our lives. She was born on Easter Sunday, two weeks after her original due date. She has always taken her time and it has always been worth the wait. She had beautiful brown hair, brown eyes, and olive-colored skin. When I held her, she held me back. She melted into my arms. On Ashley’s Gotcha’ Day, the day we brought her home two days after her birth, the major news was a freak April Fool’s Day blizzard in the northeastern United States that dumped rain, sleet, and snow from Maryland to Maine, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and as much as three feet of snow on the ground. But at the Holland house the major news was Ashley. Forgetting it was April’s Fool Day, I called Beth to tell her the news of Ashley’s birth. I had to first convince her that this was not a cruel April Fool’s joke. Before her birth, I was scheduled to speak in a citywide outreach halfway across the country. Because Ashley went past her original due date I canceled that speaking engagement. I wanted to be able to tell her and her brother that they have always been more important to me than even ministry and I’m glad that I did.

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In a world of nearly eight billion people, only one boy is my son and only one girl is my daughter. As I held them I knew that I would love them and provide for them, but they didn’t know that.

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“I love you more than anything in the whole wide world,” I whispered in their little ears as I tucked them into bed each night. Micah, holding onto his pacifier with his teeth, would shorten “I love you” and say, “I…you.” Ashley would say, “I love you mucho.” To this day we can say or text, “Mucho!” and we know it means that’s how much we love each other. Today our kids are adults, and I love them more now than the day they were born. Whatever life brings their way, whatever challenges they might face, I want them to know they can always count on me to do the best thing for them. I want them to know they are significant and my love is secure. It’s mucho!

God also adopted us as His kids. John, the beloved disciple of Jesus, wrote,

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” 1 John 3:1

We are His children. God wants even greater and better things for all of His kids, as I do mine. In fact, the more we come to understand and believe that God is for us, the more it will impact the way we think, and the more we will develop a healthy mindset. How you live is a direct response to how you think, and how you think is based on what you believe.

Choose to believe the promises of God. Those promises are for you.

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” —John 15:16

To continue reading about the Power of Mindset click here: https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2019/01/06/the-power-of-mindset/

To read more on the power of belief order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping until the end of January, visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

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“In 70 Seconds, Dan Holland takes a refreshing look at one of God’s seminal lessons for life and leadership. In today’s world we are often left wondering how to interpret the scriptures God has left for us, in this book Dan Holland does an amazing job of showing us a modern-day biblical perspective that is not only highly applicable, but interesting and entertaining. I highly encourage you to read it and apply these principles to your life.” Nick Nanton, Esq. – EMMY® Award Winning Director/Producer, Wall St. Journal Best-Selling Author

Free shipping until the end of January visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version. 

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You can choose to receive an email whenever I post a new blog; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

 

The Power of Mindset

I find it most interesting that God has given humans the ability to choose. Even when it seems that all ability to choose has been removed, it remains that I can choose my response. We can choose what to think, how to act, and which attitudes we will nurture. The God-given ability to choose must be given away; it cannot be taken. It must be relinquished of our own free will.  

The English Oxford Dictionary defines mindset as “the established set of attitudes held by someone.” To me, the sum of a person’s mindset comes from a person’s beliefs, and those beliefs determine our thoughts. Your thoughts are like the settings on a thermostat because they act as unequivocal set points—the temperature at which the switch is activated. If temperature is below the set point, the heater is on and the temperature rises. When the rising temperature passes the set point, the thermostat switches the heater off and the temperature falls passively.

The Christian is asked to be a thermostat, not a thermometer. We are to set the temperature, not report the temperature. Even when others are unreliable, untrustworthy or unfaithful, we are called to be reliable, credible, trustworthy, steadfast, and in a word, faithful. Why? Because God is faithful to His promise, even when we are not.

Eventually, the temperature falls below the set point and the cycle repeats. What is your setting? Is your mind set to please God or yourself? Who is Lord and Master? The Bible teaches us to take care what we are thinking, since it might, in fact, be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Our direction in life springs from our hearts, so we need to govern our hearts and minds continually. This principle is most clearly stated in Proverbs 4:23:

“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life” (ESV).

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (NLT).

What you feel and think in your heart is who you truly are. The heart is like a mirror. You are not what you see when you look at yourself from the outside; what you truly are is seen from the inside. You are not who others think you are, but rather who you think you are. Reset your heart as you would a thermostat.

Your mindset is the beginning point for this new life.

To read more on the power of mindset order a copy of my book 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living and Leading!  For free shipping until the end of January, visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

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“Regardless of your current circumstances, 70 Seconds will inspire you by revealing sound principles and practical actions you can take to improve your leadership abilities as a Christ follower.  Dan’s book is readable, insightful and provocative for all aspiring leaders who are dissatisfied with the status quo and determined to improve their leadership skills and the lives of believers around them.”  – Bob Russell, Former Senior Minister, Southeast Christian Church

Free shipping until the end of January visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/. My book is also available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version. 

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You can choose to receive an email whenever I post a new blog; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

 

 

Christmas Towns, Part 5

Take a walk with me through some of the towns where the story of Jesus took place.  Along the way you will meet people who struggled to understand what God was doing.  In each town we will learn something significant about what it means to believe God.  I’m sure the individuals had doubts, yet they were certain that God had a plan and would carry out His plan.  As we walk through these towns, take notice, you may catch a glimpse of yourself and what God is doing in your life.

The fifth town we come to in the story of Jesus is Capernaum.  Capernaum was the main center of Jesus’ activity during His public ministry.

“Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali—to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles – the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” – Matthew 4:13-17

Jesus moved to Capernaum on purpose.  It was a part of God’s bigger plan.  Centuries before Isaiah prophesied that God would bring light to these people.  And did He ever!  That small fishing village on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee served as home base for Jesus during his three-year ministry.  The people in Capernaum were blessed because the Son of God lived in their town.  Once, when Jesus was returning to Capernaum, Matthew wrote that Jesus was returning to “his own town.” (9:1)  It was as though Jesus’ attitude was, “This is my city and I’ll give my best to it.”  And did He ever give his best in Capernaum!   

While Jesus was in Capernaum, He did a boatload of effective ministry.  For one thing, He performed a disproportionate number of miracles in Capernaum including…

Healing the centurion’s son.

Healing the nobleman’s son.

Healing Peter’s mother-in-law.

Healing the paralytic.

Amazing!

And that wasn’t all of the miracles.  There’s more!  He cast out the unclean spirit and it was likely here that he raised Jairus’ daughter to life.  Each one was a part of God’s bigger plan.

In Capernaum Jesus started off his ministry with a small home-based group made up of three young fishermen and a tax-collector.  This is where he met Peter, James and John who lived nearby, and also Matthew, who lived in Capernaum.  In fact, soon after his decision to leave everything to follow Jesus, Matthew threw a party at his house and invited Jesus as well as his family and friends, most likely as a going away party for himself. 

In Capernaum Jesus taught truth.  In the synagogue in Capernaum, the people got to hear Jesus deliver His powerful speech on the bread of life.  Wow!  Jesus gave his very best and so much good was done in that town.  

But was His best good enough?  Did the people repent?  Did they believe in Him?  Did they follow Him?  Not at all.  

Sadly, eventually, Jesus cursed Capernaum for their unbelief.  Read for yourself.

“Then Jesus began to denounce the towns in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades. For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.” – Matthew 11:20, 23-24

Even after all His effort the town was filled with unbelief.  It’s shocking to me that the people heard Jesus preach in their synagogue and experienced healing in their bodies and yet that was not enough to convince them to turn back to God.  But God had a bigger purpose for Jesus living in Capernaum; Jesus’ job was to be obedient.  Jesus gave his best beacuse he was ultimately serving God and fulfilling His bigger purpose.  He left it all on the court, as we like to say in sports.  Obedience is never a waste of time or effort.  

Sometimes when we give our best, doing what we believe God called us to do, we may not get to see the outcomes we think our effort warrants.  Sometimes obedience feels like a colossal waste of time.  Don’t misunderstand me; I’m a big proponent of using our gift(s) in ways that bring tangible results.  We just need to remember that God is working out His plan and we get to be part of it.  Jesus gave His absolute best in Capernaum and still most of the people remained in spiritual darkness.  

Like Jesus, we should intentionally give our very best too, trusting God every step of the way.  We should “leave it all on the court” for God, even when we may not experience immediate tangible results.  

One way we can do this is to do a personal heart-check by asking ourselves some big questions. 

• Am I content and thankful to God for where He is currently using me.  Am I mostly discontent or frustrated with my current assignment?  

• Am I giving my best for God or have I stopped giving my very best to serve others in my city, business, church or family?

• Am I trying to please man or God? 

Jesus was effective because He knew that his purpose on earth was to please God in heaven.  

That’s our purpose too.   

How are you doing in your Capernaum?  As we walked through the Christmas Towns what new insights occurred to you?  Maybe you saw yourself and what God is doing in your life.   I’d love to hear what lessons have meant the most to you.  Comment below.

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You can choose to receive an email whenever the next blog is posted; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

For more inspiration read Your Life in One Day (click here): https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/ 

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Dan’s book is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version. For special offers visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

“I’ve known Dan as a tremendous preacher, teacher and wise friend for nearly 30 years. But my respect has increased even higher with 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living & Leading! Although Dan’s words are geared toward leaders, his insights will help anyone who needs inspiration to get unstuck or courage to overcome fear. I will tell everyone I know about this book.” Lorri Allen – Speaker, Author, Radio & TV Personality 

 

Christmas Towns, Part 4

Take a walk with me through some of the towns where the story of Jesus took place.  Along the way you will meet people who struggled to understand what God was doing.  In each town we will learn something significant about what it means to believe God.  I’m sure the individuals had doubts, yet they were certain that God had a plan and would carry out His plan.  As we walk through these towns, take notice, you may catch a glimpse of yourself and what God is doing in your life.

The fourth town we come to in the story of Jesus is Nazareth.  Nazareth is where Jesus grew up. 

“When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”  Luke 2:39, 52

 

Most of what is written about Jesus’ life covers a three-year time span, specifically the last three years of his life.  Yet, Jesus spent most of his life in the small, out-of-the-way town of Nazareth.  After being born in Bethlehem and spending a short time in Egypt, he spent the majority of his childhood as well as all of his teenage and young adult years in Nazareth. 

Here’s the thing…Nazareth wasn’t an impressive town.  It definitely wasn’t a destination location.  In fact, if ever anyone wanted to hide from the law, they often would go to Nazareth.  No one thought well of this town.  A well-known saying during that time was, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”  Yet Jesus became known as Jesus the Nazarene.  It wasn’t a compliment.  It was intended to define Him. 

Jesus wasn’t embarrassed about growing up in Nazareth.  When Saul saw the bright light on the road to Damascus and asked, “Who are you?” Jesus answered, “I am Jesus of Nazareth…”  I like that.  The sign nailed above Jesus’ head on the cross included: “Jesus of Nazareth”.  While the world around him thought little of anyone from Nazareth, Jesus owned it, because that’s where he grew up.  He redefined what it meant to be from Nazareth.  But that didn’t mean it was always easy.

Tragically, as Jesus was launching His ministry he wasn’t supported by His hometown of Nazareth.  He was rejected.  Their familiarity WITH him hindered their faith IN him.  In fact, the residents of Nazareth knew Jesus so well that once when He returned to his hometown…well, I’ll just let you read what happened.

“On the Sabbath, he gave a lecture in the meeting place. He made a real hit, impressing everyone. “We had no idea he was this good!” they said. “How did he get so wise all of a sudden, get such ability?” But in the next breath they were cutting him down: “He’s just a carpenter—Mary’s boy. We’ve known him since he was a kid. We know his brothers, James, Justus, Jude, and Simon, and his sisters. Who does he think he is?” They tripped over what little they knew about him and fell, sprawling. And they never got any further. Jesus told them, “A prophet has little honor in his hometown, among his relatives, on the streets he played in as a child.” Jesus wasn’t able to do much of anything there—he laid hands on a few sick people and healed them, that’s all. He couldn’t get over their stubbornness. He left and made a circuit of the other villages, teaching.” (Mark 6:1-6, The Message)

Jesus loved them but they did not believe in him.  That didn’t stop him or slow him down.  We may sometimes believe that where we grew up is holding us back or that certain people are not being supportive enough.  Don’t allow the rejection in one place to stop you from doing what God has called you to do.  Jesus chose to follow God.  We can make that same choice.  We get to choose how to best move forward in life.  We are definitely PRODUCTS of our past, we are NOT PRISONERS.  

We get to grow into what God has for us right where we are.  Maybe you’ve felt like you were born in the wrong place or even at the wrong time?  Have you ever felt like if you had just grown up somewhere else other than where you did, that you’d be better off today?  Or maybe you believe that if you had grown up in a different family that everything would be so much better for you today.  Whether we grew up in an inner city, suburb or small town, near mountains, an ocean or desert, we can see that we are products of our past.  God knew where you would grow up.  Maybe the reason WHY you live where you do is because that’s exactly WHERE you need to be to grow into WHO He intended you to be to do WHAT He’s called you to do.  

Nazareth represents times of preparation and growth.  What can you do to grow mentally, physically, spiritually and socially?  One thing you can do is to take time to write down a specific action item next to each area.  Here are some examples to get you started.  

Mind:  Be thoughtful.  

Engage in meaningful conversations, listen to podcasts when you drive, or read a good book or magazine.  Also read Matthew 22:37; 2 Peter 1:5-7; 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 12:2

Body:  Be active.

Move. Whether you walk, bike, surf, work out, or garden.  Also read 1 Timothy 4:8; Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 9:27; James 3:2-6; 1 Peter 4:1; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:23

Spirit:  Be mindful of God.  

Consider God in everything you do.  Talk with God often, read his word daily, find a place to serve someone somewhere and do it consciously for the sake of Christ.  Also read John 8:29; 2 Corinthians 5:9; Colossians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 4:1; 1 John 5:3-4

Relationships:  Be friendly. 

Be social and plan time with a friend(s) and be patient and kind to everybody.  Keep a few friends close…take time for a hot tea and conversation…or maybe call or text them just to check in.  Also read Matthew 2:39; 7:12; Luke 6:31; Galatians 5:6b; 1 John 3:18; Romans 12:9-21; John 13:34-35; Galatians 5:13.

Everyone grows up somewhere.  For Jesus, it was a town called Nazareth.  Was it perfect?  Not by a long shot.  But He grew up mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially right where he was and so can you.  We are PRODUCTS of our past, NOT PRISONERS. 

I’d love to hear from you.  Comment below.  Where did you grow up?  What difference has that made in your life?  

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You can choose to receive an email whenever the next blog is posted; just click the “FOLLOW” button in the top right of this page.

For more inspiration read Your Life in One Day (click here): https://danholland2819.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/your-life-in-one-day/ 

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Dan’s book is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version. For special offers visit http://www.CoachDanHolland.com/

“I’ve known Dan as a tremendous preacher, teacher and wise friend for nearly 30 years. But my respect has increased even higher with 70 Seconds: Stop Wandering; Start Living & Leading! Although Dan’s words are geared toward leaders, his insights will help anyone who needs inspiration to get unstuck or courage to overcome fear. I will tell everyone I know about this book.” Lorri Allen – Speaker, Author, Radio & TV Personality