What I Left Behind. What I’m Bringing.

You’ve just stepped off the slow train, and now you’re boarding your private Jet. This super speedy bird, though small, is going to take you to new places. To the great places, not just the good. To the land of plenty, not sparse.

But there’s one catch. This super Jet doesn’t have enough room for the extra pieces of luggage you had with you on the train.

Just one carry-on allowed! What are you willing to leave behind? (photos via Pixabay)

The key to thriving in 2019: Take with you only what will allow for increase and expansion.

Find the nearest dumpster. Search your extra luggage for what will hinder increase and expansion, and empty out that junk.

Here’s a partial junk list to help get you started:

• Lies – Beliefs in your heart that don’t line up with God’s word will suck your soul dry. Dump out this junk food and feast on the Bread of Life.
• Negative self-talk – Nothing is more destructive than what we speak over ourselves. “I’m such and idiot. A loser. A dummy.” Or “Things will never change. Life sucks.” Throw that ugly, tattered tote out! It’s time for a new bag.
• Unforgiveness – This one can easily fill 2-3 suitcases. Even secret attempts to make someone pay for the wrong they’ve done to you will block increase and expansion. Choose to leave room for God’s vengeance. He can’t bring you full recompense while you’re clinging to any offenses.

Be brave! Write your leave-behind list.

That feels lighter already, doesn’t it? 

So now what do you bring with you? I’ll share my list to help get you started, but then you’ll need to do some prayerful soul searching to find out what will move you into increase and expansion.

This year, I’m personally preparing for war to avoid excessive baggage in the future. I’m bringing offensive weapons.

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7 items in my carry-on:

1. Thankfulness Grenades – Twenty of these mini-bombs can easily fit in your purse or satchel. Just pull the pin and launch. Bravely lob at least 10 per day, on family of course, but even at random people. E.g. “Hey, grocery stocker guy! Thanks for doing such a great job on these shelves.” The results are most rewarding on your more difficult days. 
2. Praise Pistols – Lightweight, these work hand-in-hand with the thankfulness, but they are aimed primarily at God. The amount of ammo in one magazine lasts all day and then some. Fire these pistols in every negative situation and watch that situation flip positive.
3. Decree Detonators – Speak the answer, not the problem. That Scripture verse that jumps out at you? Detonate it by speaking it over yourself. Best if used at least once a week. This works on other people, too. I detonate them over my children and grandchildren regularly.
4. Peace Boots – I own a different pair for every occasions. Family outings. Friend get-togethers. Stranger encounters. Ministry. And run-ins with difficult people. As l long as I’m intentionally wearing a pair, I know I’m walking in honor.
5. Prayer Arrows – The enhanced version I carry has a greater range and a better guidance system than last year’s. Cultivating a pure heart free of judgment clears my vision. Each arrow that’s powered by love has a major effect on the intended target.
6. Worship Orders – These come from above. (<see link)
7. Armor – When I keep mine polished, it takes on a tailored fit. See details by clicking the provided link.

Now what about your carry-on list? 

In the comments below, list one thing you’re dumping and one you’re taking into 2019.

Sowing Seeds of Bravery for Expansion

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Increase and Expansion

“That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God,” Colossians 1:10

“Expand the space of your tent.
    Stretch out the curtains of your tent, and don’t hold back.
        Lengthen your tent ropes, and drive in the tent pegs.
You will spread out to the right and left.
    Your descendants will take over other nations,
        and they will resettle deserted cities,” Isaiah 54:2-3 GW