Dare to Dream Big
By Pam Perry
Life is too short to be too little. Dream big in 2007. Expect more in 2007. The one thing that separates those who make things happen and those who don’t – is action.
Step out of the boat. Leap – and the net will appear! Believe and trust God. God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.
Dreams can come true. Nothing is impossible with God. You’ve seen it happen for others. You’re read their stories. Saw their movies. Heard about those who have gone from “rags to riches.” Think about Fantasia (American Idol winner), Chris Gardener (author of Pursuit of HappYness), Teresa Hairston (founder/publisher of Gospel Today magazine) and Ken Brown (author of From Welfare to Faring Well). All these folk worked hard and believed God.
What else did they have in common that made their dreams come true? Consistent persistence! Great things happen for people who let their dreams be the springboard for great actions.
It’s a spiritual principle: Faith without works is dead. It’s not enough to have a dream – you have to have plan and work your plan!
This year dare to chart your course. Reignite your vision and be consistent in your persistence in your pursuit. 2007 incorporate these 7 steps to get your dreams fulfilled:
Commit. Make a decision to follow your dreams that the Lord put in your heart no matter what others say. Know with absolute certainty that you will see the vision come to pass because you’re determined and God showed you. Psalm 37:5
Be Prudent. Don’t make decisions before knowing all the facts. Work smart and you won’t have to work hard. Prov. 27:12
Be Prepared. Don’t wait until there is an emergency or a deadline before you get moving on project. Successful people plan ahead. Haste makes waste. Prov. 21:31
Be focused. Get clear on what you want and don’t get distracted. If something doesn’t put you closer to your goal, drop it. Clarity is power. Prov. 29:18
Be diligent. Finish what you start. Remember the end of thing is better than the beginning. If it worth starting – don’t’ be lazy – finish it! Prov. 13:4
Be Teachable. Don’t refuse good advice and accept instruction. Get all the help you can. All successful people had mentors and role models. Prov. 13:18
Be persistent. Be relentless. Tackle every task that God puts before you and expect a blessing. Quitters never win and winners never quit. Press toward the mark. Prov. 24:10
The number one reason most people don’t achieve their dreams is that they don’t have a clarity. There is power in focus and visualizing what you want, confessing what you want and doing what you know to do! As Teresa Hairston of Gospel Today magazine says, “Make your vision vivid.” Write your vision, make it plan and keep the momentum no matter how hard it gets – with God, all things are possible.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Keep Christ in Christmas!
Don't X out the Christ in CHRISTmas!
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:8-11 (NIV)
In our society today there is a need to be politically correct. But there is one event that changed the course of history – that’s the birth of Jesus Christ. So, to meld it down to “Happy Holidays” just won’t cut it. And to just write “Xmas” instead of Christmas is even more absurd.
Christmas is about Jesus Christ. That’s the point. Jesus is the reason for the season. It doesn’t matter what you believe or what opinions you may have, the whole point is that Jesus’ birth changed the world. Thousands of years later, we are stilling celebrating the season with Jesus’ entrance into the world in mind. Or are we?
Just like prayer was taken out of public schools – will we see the day where Christ will be taken out of Christmas?
Why is it we can pass along fables, fairy tales and honor other “heroes” from history like Christopher Columbus or Dr. Martin Luther King but we water down the mention of Christ in Christmas?
It’s all about Jesus. Yes, it’s all about him. His death, burial and resurrection changed the world. We divide time based on Him: “B.C” (before Christ) or “A.D.” (after death). If he is that important that time is referenced in terms of his birth and death, then certainly we can keep the holiday all about Jesus Christ.
Saying Happy Holidays is nice…we throw in New Year’s too and all the other religious holidays – but there in nothing more significant for than saying “Merry Christmas.” We must realize that if it wasn’t for his birth, we wouldn’t have eternal life. He came to give life – and give it more abundantly. Jesus is the reason for every season. He came to rescue us (save us) from our selfish selves.
Jesus Christ. Anointed by God to bring salvation to a dying world. He is still on the job today. Santa is nice. But Jesus is the truth, the way and the life – eternal.
When you hang up your Christmas lights this year, think about this: who was really the light of the world? If you believe in Jesus, are you letting your light shine also? Let the world know it is “Merry Christmas AND Happy Holidays.” Holidays are holy days when God is in the center – and that’s worth celebrating anytime.
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:8-11 (NIV)
In our society today there is a need to be politically correct. But there is one event that changed the course of history – that’s the birth of Jesus Christ. So, to meld it down to “Happy Holidays” just won’t cut it. And to just write “Xmas” instead of Christmas is even more absurd.
Christmas is about Jesus Christ. That’s the point. Jesus is the reason for the season. It doesn’t matter what you believe or what opinions you may have, the whole point is that Jesus’ birth changed the world. Thousands of years later, we are stilling celebrating the season with Jesus’ entrance into the world in mind. Or are we?
Just like prayer was taken out of public schools – will we see the day where Christ will be taken out of Christmas?
Why is it we can pass along fables, fairy tales and honor other “heroes” from history like Christopher Columbus or Dr. Martin Luther King but we water down the mention of Christ in Christmas?
It’s all about Jesus. Yes, it’s all about him. His death, burial and resurrection changed the world. We divide time based on Him: “B.C” (before Christ) or “A.D.” (after death). If he is that important that time is referenced in terms of his birth and death, then certainly we can keep the holiday all about Jesus Christ.
Saying Happy Holidays is nice…we throw in New Year’s too and all the other religious holidays – but there in nothing more significant for than saying “Merry Christmas.” We must realize that if it wasn’t for his birth, we wouldn’t have eternal life. He came to give life – and give it more abundantly. Jesus is the reason for every season. He came to rescue us (save us) from our selfish selves.
Jesus Christ. Anointed by God to bring salvation to a dying world. He is still on the job today. Santa is nice. But Jesus is the truth, the way and the life – eternal.
When you hang up your Christmas lights this year, think about this: who was really the light of the world? If you believe in Jesus, are you letting your light shine also? Let the world know it is “Merry Christmas AND Happy Holidays.” Holidays are holy days when God is in the center – and that’s worth celebrating anytime.
Posted by
Pam Perry, PR Coach
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
How to Prepare for a Conference as a Host
How to Prepare for a Conference as a Host
It’s no secret that the Christian Conference is increasingly becoming the popular setting in which to educate believers about matters of ministry.
Seminary may not be cost effective for lay leaders and aspiring evangelists and/or those individuals looking to live out God’s purpose for their lives.
Conference planners say there are some basic things to consider in the planning process.
You can begin the process in your planning by Zeroing In On Your Vision, said Dr. Stacia Pierce co-pastor of Lansing,Mich.-based Life Changers.
"When planning a special event, have a target or purpose in mind for the event. Identify the audience you want to reach and the tone of your conference," she said. "Establish clear goals for your conference to help keep you and your team focused.
1. Create an Atmosphere: "The conference theme, décor, music and guest service all create an atmosphere that will either enhance or diminish the experience of your conference attendees.
2. Count up the Cost: "Determine the budget, advertising, personnel, training needed to make your event a success."
3. Seek Sponsorship: Conference and event planner Robin Ware of the Atlanta-based The Ware Agency said don’t be reluctant to ask for help.
"Commercial vendors and sponsors are approachable and supportive of religious (faith-based) events/conferences because they understand that church people are viable consumers," Ware said.
5. Location: "If you aren’t using your own church, begin to narrow down host cities. This is where it is wise to employ a Conference Planner. They will be able to give you wise counsel and guidance," she said.
Research: "Find out what other conferences and events are being hosted during your desired dates. Make sure you aren’t competing with any other major events in your city, in your church and within the gospel community."
6. Guest speakers and artists: "Obtain their Riders and Hospitality Forms. Riders are provided by artists and Hospitality Forms by preachers and workshop presenters. These will state their honorariums and travel requirements. Preachers and Speakers don’t typically quote prices but they have an amount they normally are paid and will communicate it to you verbally through their offices if its not located on the Hospitality Form," said Ware and to be sure to purchase event insurance."
Also see: www.thewareagency.com and www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com
It’s no secret that the Christian Conference is increasingly becoming the popular setting in which to educate believers about matters of ministry.
Seminary may not be cost effective for lay leaders and aspiring evangelists and/or those individuals looking to live out God’s purpose for their lives.
Conference planners say there are some basic things to consider in the planning process.
You can begin the process in your planning by Zeroing In On Your Vision, said Dr. Stacia Pierce co-pastor of Lansing,Mich.-based Life Changers.
"When planning a special event, have a target or purpose in mind for the event. Identify the audience you want to reach and the tone of your conference," she said. "Establish clear goals for your conference to help keep you and your team focused.
1. Create an Atmosphere: "The conference theme, décor, music and guest service all create an atmosphere that will either enhance or diminish the experience of your conference attendees.
2. Count up the Cost: "Determine the budget, advertising, personnel, training needed to make your event a success."
3. Seek Sponsorship: Conference and event planner Robin Ware of the Atlanta-based The Ware Agency said don’t be reluctant to ask for help.
"Commercial vendors and sponsors are approachable and supportive of religious (faith-based) events/conferences because they understand that church people are viable consumers," Ware said.
5. Location: "If you aren’t using your own church, begin to narrow down host cities. This is where it is wise to employ a Conference Planner. They will be able to give you wise counsel and guidance," she said.
Research: "Find out what other conferences and events are being hosted during your desired dates. Make sure you aren’t competing with any other major events in your city, in your church and within the gospel community."
6. Guest speakers and artists: "Obtain their Riders and Hospitality Forms. Riders are provided by artists and Hospitality Forms by preachers and workshop presenters. These will state their honorariums and travel requirements. Preachers and Speakers don’t typically quote prices but they have an amount they normally are paid and will communicate it to you verbally through their offices if its not located on the Hospitality Form," said Ware and to be sure to purchase event insurance."
Also see: www.thewareagency.com and www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com
Posted by
Pam Perry, PR Coach
Thursday, August 03, 2006
ChristianBookPublicity
ChristianBookPublicity
PROPAGATING PROSPERITY
In the church is the buzzword, "prosperity." We hear about it, we talk about it and we name and claim it. It is all a faith walk - mirrored by our talk.
Yet, in the industry of ministry, those who are in business providing goods and services to those in the church community - there is a gap. A big gap.
It seems that only those in ministry are allowed to prosper and those that they do business with are asked to "sow."
From personal experience, I have seen ministers, preachers and Christian business people, continue to ask for reduced prices and services for FREE. They have said in so many words that if you provide "favor" to me then God would bless my business.
As a Christian in business and wanting to be a blessing, time and time again we have given way a lot. We have sowed a lot. We have changed rules to fit client situations. We have done this for years…and now I ask, "isn't it time for favor to come to us?" The favor is when we quote a fair price and the bill is paid - on time.
I know that the Word of God says, "give unto your servants that which is just and equal, knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. (Colossians 4:1)." In other words, don't take advantage of those who are doing work for you - just because you're in "full time ministry." Truthfully, we're all in full-time ministry. And money is needed to run every ministry.
Is today's Christian becoming so carnal that all they care about is material gain - at the expense of someone else? If a person works hard, provides good service, is genuinely concerned about your mission/vision and welfare, shouldn't you reward them handsomely? Even worldly businesses do that.
Why is it that ministries seem to think it is OK to pay "secular" business - helping them achieve wealth - but when it comes to paying those who are dedicated to servicing ministry, there is a mindset that says, "pay less" or "pay later."
If we truly want to propagate prosperity among God's people - we must learn the Golden Rule. Bottom line: Treat (pay) others the way you want to treated (paid). We would see prosperity multiplied through out the Kingdom when this mentality becomes a revelation.
PROPAGATING PROSPERITY
In the church is the buzzword, "prosperity." We hear about it, we talk about it and we name and claim it. It is all a faith walk - mirrored by our talk.
Yet, in the industry of ministry, those who are in business providing goods and services to those in the church community - there is a gap. A big gap.
It seems that only those in ministry are allowed to prosper and those that they do business with are asked to "sow."
From personal experience, I have seen ministers, preachers and Christian business people, continue to ask for reduced prices and services for FREE. They have said in so many words that if you provide "favor" to me then God would bless my business.
As a Christian in business and wanting to be a blessing, time and time again we have given way a lot. We have sowed a lot. We have changed rules to fit client situations. We have done this for years…and now I ask, "isn't it time for favor to come to us?" The favor is when we quote a fair price and the bill is paid - on time.
I know that the Word of God says, "give unto your servants that which is just and equal, knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. (Colossians 4:1)." In other words, don't take advantage of those who are doing work for you - just because you're in "full time ministry." Truthfully, we're all in full-time ministry. And money is needed to run every ministry.
Is today's Christian becoming so carnal that all they care about is material gain - at the expense of someone else? If a person works hard, provides good service, is genuinely concerned about your mission/vision and welfare, shouldn't you reward them handsomely? Even worldly businesses do that.
Why is it that ministries seem to think it is OK to pay "secular" business - helping them achieve wealth - but when it comes to paying those who are dedicated to servicing ministry, there is a mindset that says, "pay less" or "pay later."
If we truly want to propagate prosperity among God's people - we must learn the Golden Rule. Bottom line: Treat (pay) others the way you want to treated (paid). We would see prosperity multiplied through out the Kingdom when this mentality becomes a revelation.
Posted by
Pam Perry, PR Coach
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