Just received this book in the mail about a month ago and instantly felt it was going to me a must read! I was certainly not disappointed - it has been awesome!
The first page will grab you, "Defining moments! One morning you wake up, totally unaware that today you will make a decision that will define your life for years to come, perhaps forever. ... Such moments will cast us in either a positive or negative light. We can be defined as much by noble actions and words as by tragic ones."
The author continues to say, "That moment is coming - maybe today, pershaps in a week, a month or a year, but it is coming, and you won't be able to escape it. Right now you are cultivating habits and thoughts that will lead you inexorably to that moment."
The book takes you through many people in the bible who weren't ready for their moment and the tragic consequences to their choices. You also meet others who were ready and you find out the wise principles they used. The author asks "ARE YOU READY?".
This is a book that you will definitely need a highlighter for so get ready and transform your book from black and white to bright shades of yellow! It will inspire and enlighten you to be ready for that moment.
One of the stories that really spoke to me was that of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego. They refused to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's gods or worship the golden image. As a result they where thrown into a furnace of blazing fire and came out of it without any damage - they didn't even smell like smoke!
They stayed united in their common convictions and the following three principals where evident:
- With others you can face danger with new courage
- You will stand your ground with greater conviction
- Your faith can be taken to a higher level
We all need a Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego? We need friends who will stand by and support us through those defining moments. Friends that will have the same conviction about their faith as we do. So, are your friends encouraging or discouraging your Christian convictions? Finding a group of friends who have the same convictions and desire to grow in their faith walk is important. This will strengthen your faith, affirm your convictions and help prepare you for any defining moments God might bring into your life.
That is why finding fellowships groups either through bible study, small groups, ministry work, etc. are so important for Christians. Surround yourself with friends that will make healthy deposits instead of withdrawals. Don't abandon your non-Christian friends, but don't allow them to drag you down either. Seek out encouragers, and most of all be an encourager! Hebrews 3:13 "But encourage one another daily, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness."
My PrayerDear Heavenly Father,
Thank you Father for your Word that is sharper than any double-edged sword that judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Search my heart and do the work that is required to prepare me for any defining moments. I want to make the choices that Glorify You and hear You say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." In the name of Jesus, Amen.
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