the Success Church

Eyes to See and Ears to Hear

2009-03-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

The first of January I posted a statement about the shaking I was feeling. Now it is March 20th and it has become clearer what this is all about.

The clock is ticking. The countdown has begun. Awaken!!!!
It is time to become "aware."

No need for fear, God is in control.

There is a shift taking place and I am following the direction of the Holy Spirit by creating a new form to communicate my message and offer my help.

At this time I have decided to stop posting my comments here regarding my views on Christianity and the church instead I will be posting my comments on a new site.

Go to: CenterForSuccessfulLiving.blogspot.com

Preaching Against Sin

2009-01-25T21:28:00.000-08:00

I just finished watching several video clips of evangelists and street preachers attacking unbelievers and exposing their sins. I am sorry but this is NOT the good news of the gospel of Jesus. They are only confusing people.

They think that laying a quilt trip upon these people will make them repent and change their lives? Wrong! If you motivate people with fear then you must keep them in fear to keep them motivated. This is not how Jesus did it.

Most Christians preach against the sin of sex, drugs, and rebellion. It is easy to preach against these sins because they are expressed openly. It is easy to judge what we see on the outward.

What is really sad….when you preach like this.... people stop and say “well I don’t do those things, I don’t smoke, drink or chew nor do I run around with boys who do!” They justify themselves and say I live a good life and then refuse to face the truth. Therefore they continue to live a life controlled by the hidden sins that run deep within the human condition.

This type of thinking promotes the idea that we can experience eternal life by following a list of “dos and don’ts.” As a result we have religious people thinking they free from sin by making an outward appearance without the power of God. The truth is sin is a condition which requires a transformation of the heart.

In Proverbs 6:16-19 it identifies several sins as a condition of the heart. The first one is to be arrogant. Next is to lie and then to kill the innocent. Next is to desire evil and destruction. Next is to speak falsely against another person. And the last one is the desire to promote disharmony and discord.

When was the last time you heard a Christian speak of these sins?

Man will avoid speaking of these sins because they cause so much pain and suffering.

But the Holy Spirit knows how to reveal and remove these sins.

How He does it is through love, it is not through preaching condemnation. To know Jesus in a personal relationship you know love.

It was God’s love for me that drew me to Him not some preacher telling me that I was a sinner. Deep down inside I knew I was a sinner. Once I knew how much God loved me and that He had a purpose for my life......I could not refuse His love nor those who would share His love with me.

I remember not wanting to sleep the night I prayed my prayer of faith. I was so overwhelmed with His love and peace and I was afraid if I went to sleep it would not be there the next morning but it was.

The Holy Spirit knew exactly how to woo me and love me until I was willing to completely open up and receive Him. There was no preacher telling me what to do only people who loved God who were willing to pray for me and love me just as I was.

Several days later the Spirit of God opened me up and filled me with the power of God, I was freed from my demons and I became a changed man.

Now that is the good news.

Steve Hart

Can You Feel It?

2009-01-12T14:02:00.000-08:00

I found this video and I thought it went along with my last post. "2009 Do You Feel It?"
Enjoy the music... may it inspire you to fulfill your purpose today and everyday.

2009 Do You Feel It?

2009-01-01T17:29:00.000-08:00

There is a shaking going on!

What can be shaken will be shaken.

I am not talking about an earthquake but a spiritual awakening.

Those who have ears to hear are hearing a new message.
The Spirit is speaking. A shift in the collective consciousness is taking place.

Mankind is about to find a new level of neutrality.
They are learning how to let go of their fears, judgment, and the need "to be in control."

People are learning how to trust God in all things. Not condemning or putting guilt upon one another. 1 John 3:20-21 says, “For if our hearts condemn us God is greater than our heart and knows all things. Beloved, our heart condemns us not, we have confidence toward God.”

Jesus never spoke of quilt. He was not sent to condemn mankind (John 3:17) His ministry was to heal and preserve through the power of love. Remove quilt and people will discover their true potential, become productive, and prosper.

People are discovering who they are, taking responsibility upon themselves. They are not blaming others for their problems rather they are seeking solutions. They are learning how to conceptualize and look for all the possibilities of what could be.

People are looking for meaning and a sense of purpose. They want to do what they love to do.

This is an exciting times. The so called recession is only an illusion of what is. The money is did not disappear. What is happening is a spiritual shaking.

Awaken! Hold on to that which will remain. Heb.12:26 – 28.

Steve Hart

The Meaning of Christmas

2008-12-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

"May the Spirit of God bless you with peace and give you prosperity in the coming year."

Steve Hart

But What Do You Want?

2008-12-13T07:11:00.000-08:00

Imagine with me you own a magic lamp with a genie and he says you can have as many wishes as you want. Do you know what you would wish for?

Do you know what you want for Christmas? Do you know what you want to be when you grow up? Do you know where you would like to travel? Do you know what would make you happy?

I can guarantee you that after expressing your wants to the first few questions you will quickly run out of ideas for what you want. Try making a wish list. After the first six wishes you will find it difficult to come up with a new wish, the ones you really want.

Do you really know what you want?

What you thought you wanted in the past has changed and what you think you want for future may also change….you can only express what you want in the “Now.”

How do you do it?

Before you begin, give thanks for what you have right now. This opens you up for creating something new. Gratitude is the most powerful state of being in the now.

Start with the basic desires, clear air, food, water, shelter, health and the feelings of being secure. Then there are the ones you so often forget; love, joy, peace and harmony.

It is at this point when everything changes.

This is when it gets confusing. Why?

This is the moment when your desires are controlled by your spirit or your ego. If you do not know the difference then you must go back to “Go” and you do not collect $200.00.

Yes, life is like a game. How you play the game determines if you get what you really want. Consciously or un-consciously you decide.

Your ego (the carnal mind, Rom 8:7) will lead you down a long path of wishes and desires and you will never find what you are looking for. You will end up frustrated and confused.

Your spirit is connected to your higher self and the Spirit of God. It will guide you toward what you really want. It knows your mission in life, your agreements; it knows your true desires and the Spirit of God will supply you with all you need to accomplish this.

Great joy and satisfaction are your reward for following the Spirit of God.

“Eye has not seen, nor ear has heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for them that love Him. But God has revealed them unto us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.” 1 Cor. 2:9-10

Steve Hart

Why is God so Confusing?

2008-11-29T21:11:00.000-08:00

You ask questions like; If God is a god of love then why does he punish people? Why does He not answer my prayers? Why does He let young babies die?

Does not the Bible say that God is holy and divine and it also says He is jealous, angry, vengeful, and to be feared? How can He be both?

You look at God’s church today and you find over twenty thousand different church denominations because they can not agree upon the teachings of Jesus.

This all makes God sound so confusing. Why?

In 1 Cor. 14:33 it says that “God is not the author of confusion…”

Then why does all of this appear to be so confusing?

Are you ready to hear and accept the answer?
I ask because the responsibility falls upon YOU not God.

The reason God appears to be confusing is because it’s YOUR perception of God!

You are the ones creating the confusion. It is your ego. Your ego does not understand God. It only knows itself and it projects itself upon your perception of God and the world around you.

God does not change. God is not confused nor does He create confusion.

We are the ones confused. We see God through our egos therefore we see Him as a god who hates, becomes angry, and violent.

We project our egotistical nature upon God. We understand God only as we understand ourselves. It is not until the Holy Spirit reveals Himself to us that we begin to understand the scriptures and the true nature of God.

Jesus knew man could not understand God this is why He said, “Hearing they hear not neither do they understand….seeing you shall see and not perceive.” Matt. 13:13b-14b

In Romans 8:7 it says, “The carnal mind is enmity against God…” The word carnal means, fleshly of human nature and the word enmity means, in opposition or hateful. Therefore it's our egos that distorts our image of God and confuses us.

God is not confused. He is a God of Peace and Love.

Steve Hart

Judgment

2008-11-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

Jesus was very clear on the subject of judgment. Yet most Christians and the Church have made themselves judge. And when they judge, they also condemn the person or persons being judged. Christianity has got the judgement thing all wrong.

Jesus clearly said, “Judge not that you be not judged” Matt. 7:1

Jesus also said “I came not to judge the world but to save the world.” John 12:47b

No wonder Christians are attacked, ridiculed, and shunned by those who seek to know God. The Church has failed to listen to the words of Jesus instead they have taken sides with Satan by becoming accusers.

Jesus came to “save” (Greek word, “sozo” which means to deliver or protect, heal, preserve and make safe.) the “world” (Greek word, “kosmos” which means to tend or care for its inhabitants.)

What right do we have to judge? Jesus said we make our judgments based upon appearance. John 7:24a

He then said, “Ye judge after the flesh.” John 8:15a. Jesus is telling us how our egos judge one another. Instead of seeing our “true selves” our egos take pride in thinking we are better than another.

When Can We Judge

Does not the Bible say that Christians must make a judgment based upon scripture?

What about 1 Cor.2:15a it says, “But he that is spiritual judges all things.” This scripture gives anyone who is “spiritual” the right to judge according to God’s word?

NO!!!

First thing, the word “judge” in the Greek is “anakrazo” which means to discern NOT judge. It means we are to ask questions, investigate, and determine what Godly is for ourselves but not for each other.

We have become pious and used God’s word in attempt to judge each other. God forgive us.

Righteous Judgment

Wait, what about a “righteous Judgment” as found in John 7:24b?

What is a righteous Judgment?

The Greek word for judgment is “krisis” which means to distinguish for or against. Only God knows the heart. Only God can distinguish if one is for or against love. God is love, therefore his judgment sees past the flesh and past the outward appearance. He sees the heart.

We do not know how to separate the criminal from the crime, the rich man from his riches, or the holy man from his prayers. Only God knows, we are not to judge.

I pray that Christians will free themselves of judgment and learn to love instead of looking at the sin and the ego within mankind.

There is no judgment at "the Success Church" only love and your success.

Steve Hart

Worldly Riches vs. the Abundance of God

2008-10-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Does this title stir up within you a bit of confusion?

What is the difference between worldly riches and the abundance of God?

In Mark 4: 19 Jesus warns us of the deceitfulness of riches and how it can make you unfruitful in the Kingdom of God.

But then on the other hand Jesus said in John 10:10 that He came that you may have life more abundantly. Does this not include money?

In Timothy it is made clear that the “love of money is the root of all evil.” Tim. 6:10 No where in the bible does it say that money is evil in itself.

Knowing this, why do you still struggle trying to understand how you can accumulate riches, money, and wealth and still love God?

Do you seek riches or the Kingdom of God?

Seek the kingdom of God (Matt 6:33) and He will share with you all the abundance you can handle. It is God’s nature to give abundantly. "abundantly above all we ask or think..." Eph.3:20

If you love your money then your money is attached to this world for "no man can serve two masters ..." Matt. 6:24 If you know how to give your money away then you know of the abundance of God. "Give and it shall be given to you...." Luke. 6:38

If your money comes from God then you know there is an abundance of money which flows from God.

Your money and the law of attraction do not know the difference between the worldly riches and riches from God. Both are neutral. This law is set in motion to manifest anything you desire. It is your choice; follow after riches or to follow after God. Follow after God and He will bless you with His abundance.

The only difference between worldly riches and the abundance of God is where you place your treasures. Matt. 6:19-21 It is your knowing that God is the source of all things.

Use the law of attraction to accumulate wealth in the Kingdom of God and you will be blessed.

Steve Hart

Jesus and the Law of Attraction

2008-10-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

In 2006 a movie and then a book titled “The Secret” was released teaching the Law of Attraction. I was very excited about its release. For I have been using the Law of Attraction after reading Napoleon Hill’s book, “Think and Grow Rich” back in 1986.

Hill calls it a “magnetic force” when thoughts become things. He said, when you mix your dominate thoughts with feelings of emotion then you will attract the equivalent.

Jesus taugtht the beginning priciples of the Law of Attraction. But His teachings were limited to the understanding of the people of that day in time. The world did not understand the science of magneitc force or the Law of Attraction. Jesus simply said, "Ask" with the expectation to receive.

Jesus said, “Ask and you shall receive that your joy may be full." He then went to say, "These things I speak to you in parables.” John 16:24-25

Jesus also said, “What things you desire when you pray, believe that you have received them, and you shall have them.” Mark 11:24

So, what would Jesus say about the movie "The Secret?" I think Jesus said made it clear when He said, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His Righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” Matt. 6:33

Wisdom would teach you to seek God first for He knows what you want before you do.

You can use the Law of Attraction to grant your every wish just like a genie. But be careful what you wish for. You may get it and find out it is not what your truly wanted.

It was my desire to become a real estate investor so I attracted over a million dollars of real estate into my life. The problem was I could not hold on to it….I did not realize the responsibility that came with that desire. In time I lost it all.

I am not saying that God did not want me to have those properties but now was not the time. I was not ready. Maybe in the future I will use this experience and knowledge to once again attract real estate back into my life.

I have found it is important to pay close attentions to my desires. It is through my relationship with God that I align my thoughts with God seeking to fulfill my agreement, my purpose or mission here on earth. My ego would rather I attract it's own wants and desires.

God wants to bless you with His abundance. Read Proverbs 8:19-21 “My reward is better than gold….it is better than choice silver… I lead in the way of righteousness…that I may cause those that love me to inherit substance and I will fill their treasures.”

When you align yourself with the purposes of God you will attract the blessings of God. For He will reveal to you your hidden desires, the desires you created before you came into the world.

Please visit with me at my new social Webpage: http://www.yoursecretagreement.ning.com/

Steve Hart

The Kingdom Of God - Within You!

2008-09-24T21:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard Christians refer to God and heaven as being far away. The is an unhealthy way of thinking for it puts God and His kingdom out of reach, a place you have to travel to. It is our “monkey brains” (your ego) that separate us from God.

When Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of God He spoke to the multitudes in parables. But for His disciples He would explain the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. Today it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to explain to you these mysteries. Hear what the Spirit says.

Our God in Heaven and the Kingdom of God is NOT in some far away place like outer-space. He is as close as your breath. God is the spirit and energy that gives you life. He is your source for all things.

In Luke 17:20-21 the Pharisees ask Jesus “When will the Kingdom of God come?” Jesus said, “It will not come with observation because the Kingdom of God is within you.” In the Greek the word “within” means to be “positioned inside.” Hidden away like a treasure.

In the gospels “The Kingdom of Heaven” and the “Kingdom of God” both are used to describe the same thing.

Jesus said, “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who brings forth out of his treasure things new and old.” Matt. 13:52 Hidden within you are God given gifts, strengths, and talents. They have been hidden within you like treasures, waiting for you to fulfill your purpose here on earth.

The only difference between heaven and earth is the visible and the invisible, the spirit and the physical. The connection between those two worlds is within you. This is why Jesus said, speaking again in a mystery, “You must be born again to know the kingdom of God....... That which is of the flesh is flesh and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” John 3:3b & 6.

Steve Hart

I Confess....

2008-09-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

It has been over two months since my last post. I want to share with you why it has taken me so long to keep up my postings.

It is not that I have been too busy. It is not that I don't have some thing to say.

Once I declared that 2008 would be my "Come-Back" year I have been on an exciting road of spiritual renewal.

The Holy Spirit has been speaking to me like never before. I have put my full trust and faith in what God is doing in my life right now. I am experiencing higher levels of consciousness, including great joy, love and peace.

As a result the Holy Spirit is revealing to me the answers to many questions I have been struggling with and I have been hesitant to put them into writing until I had time to discern if these answers with my egotistical "Monkey Mind" trying to be spiritual or was it the Holy Spirit. God has confirmed the answers I now have through much prayer, reading of scripture, and meditation.

Now I continue to blog what God is speaking to me that you too may have a better understanding of the things of God and His Kingdom.

In His Love,

Steve Hart

What Are the Commandments of God?

2008-07-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

When Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments,” John 14:15, was he speaking of the Ten Commandments and the Old Testaments law?

No He was not!

He was speaking of a new commandment, John 13:34, the commandment of love not law.

If you study the Old Testament law then will know it was impossible for man to fulfill these laws. That is why Jesus came to fulfill the law. That word “fulfill” means to complete it or finish it.

In His sermon on the mount Jesus makes reference to the Old Testament laws then he explains how these laws were fulfilled under His new commandment, John 13:4, “A new commandant I give unto you, that you love one another as I have loved you.”

In the original Greek the word “commandment” means; to enjoin in an injunction, in other words, to agree to an order from a governing authority.

When you hear the words “an order from a governing authority” this may sound harsh or demanding. You may think of an army or a dictatorship forcing its rule over its people.

But God’s commandments are not forceful or grievous, read 1 John 5:3.

The authority of God is ruled by the power of love. God does not force Himself upon us.

You will hear Christians preaching “obedience.” They describe God as an earthly father, one who will punish you if you don’t obey him. This is not true. Jesus never used the word “obey” when speaking of your relationship with God.

What about the word “obey” used by Peter in Acts 5:32? It reads, “….we are witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost whom God hath given to them that obey him.”
Here the Greek the word “obey” means to be persuaded or to conform to advice.

Therefore your motivation is to submit not out of fear of punishment but rather by love.

The old image of God setting on His throne waiting to throw down bolts of lightening if you do not obey him is false.

God’s Kingdom and its authority are governed by love. This is why Jesus said, “If you keep my commandments, you shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love,” John 15:10.

To know God is to love God.

When I experienced my conversion I was motivated by the love not by fear.

The gospel of Jesus Christ are not words of fear and punishment based upon your obedience but rather the love, joy and peace and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Steve Hart

What is the "Word of God?"

2008-03-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

You must understand what is the inspired word of God? The Bible as we know it today is not the only inspired word of God.

What?

Before you accuse me of being a heretic let me explain.

In the Greek vocabulary you will find two words are used to describe the word of God.

The first is Logos which is defined as the "written word." This includes the thoughts, reasoning, and motives in those words.

The second Greek word is Rhema which is defined as the "spoken word" or the utterance of God. This would be the words spoken to you by the Holy Spirit.

When scripture was first spoken it was the Rhema of God which then became the Logos.

Both come from the same source therefore it only makes since that the two would agree with each other. Yet believers do NOT always agree with each other in interpretation. This is why you must learn how to listen to the Holy Spirit. This why Jesus said he would send the Holy Spirit to you. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to guide you into all truth. Read John 16:13.

Without the Holy Spirit there is no Rhema. All you have left is Logos which can not be properly interpreted without the Holy Spirit.

Then on the other hand how will you know what is the Rhema of God? You need the Logos or the witness of other spirit filled believers to confirm the Rhema of God. God knew we would preserve His written word but he also knew that the written word would not be enough to reveal to you what you need to fulfill your assignment here on earth. He knew it would take a daily relationship with the Holy Spirit to reveal to you His wisdom. Read. 1 Cor. 2:7-16.

You must hear the word of God for you today! The Spirit is speaking. If you are not hearing the voice of God, then seek Him that you might hear Him speak clearly. He is not a God of confusion. The Holy Spirit will teach you the truth and give you an understanding of God's word.

Steve Hart

Resist The Devil!

2008-02-11T16:43:00.000-08:00

I was visiting some friend recently and they were sharing with me that they had been working hard doing the "Lord's work" and the Devil had been giving them problems. They said they knew the Devil was mad and they were having to do battle against him.

The Holy Spirit within me says this is not correct.

When you talk about doing the "Lord's work" and how the Devil is fighting aganist you....beware this may be your ego saying, look at what I have done for God. If you give into pride and allow your ego to guide you then you will open the door for the Devil's attack upon you.

Jesus defeated the Devil! That work is done. It's over. Give yourself to the Holy Spirit's guidance. He will protect you. The Devil has no holds upon us unless you give it to him. The scripture says, "Resist the Devil and he will flee from you!" James 4:7 Its that simple. Its our ego to think that we can do anything to make the Devil mad. The Devil has no place within you unless you give yourself to your flesh (the ego). This is what the Devil feeds upon.

When Peter (1 Peter, 5:8) said, "...your adversary the Devil is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour..." it is important that you know that the old lions have no teeth they only have their roars, which is designed to put fear in the heart of it's prey. The old Devil has no teeth only his roar to put fear in your heart. Peter goes on to say,"....resist steadfast in faith!"

Let's not give credit or power to the Devil. If you are a Christian you do NOT belong to the Devil. May I remind you who you are!!! You are not of this world. This world is only an illusion. You came to this world to fulfill a mission. Your ego would have you to believe otherwise. Listen to the Holy Spirit for He will guide you and teach the things of the spirit.

Faint not but be faithful.

Steve Hart

I Predict

2008-01-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

( This post is in response to one of my great teachers blog http://www.rayrenner.com/ )

The last two minutes of any sports game are most important part of the game. What happens in those two minutes can be critical to the game's outcome. That's what it's all about, the big finish.

The Holy Spirit is telling me, the seeds were planted thirty five years were to prepare us for what's to come in the next 10 years.

I predict we will see the Spirit of God move once again in a mighty way within our generation.

Why?

The baby boomers (Those who were born between 1946 and 1964, the largest generation on the face of the earth) is coming into their retirement age. When they do they will be seeking 'meaning' within their lives.

Read Daniel Pink's Book, "The Whole New Mind." He says that we are already moving out of the "Information Age" into the what he calls the "Conceptual Age." This age is will be driven by high-concept/high-touch and right brain thinking.

I believe that God will be opening up the hearts of thousands upon thousands within the next ten years.

The seeds were planted within us during the Jesus Movement of the early 70's. During the past thirty-five years we have been blessed. We have raised our families. We have learned how to depend upon the Holy Spirit's guidance. We have grown in wisdom.....

And the game ain't over yet.....God has prepared us to minister to our generation as we come into the last two minutes of the game. I'll even bet you we will go into 'over time' just to make it a glorious ending.

I am ready, are you?

Steve Hart

The "Flow" of God

2008-01-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

Are you receiving the "Flow" of God?

If not then it's time to make a change.

Maybe you don't know what the "Flow" of God is.....

It is the Greek meaning for the word, LIFE!

Note above in the header of this blog I quote John 10:10. The word "Life" means the "Flow" of God. This excites me....why?

Because this means the life of God is for ever flowing and as the scriptures says it is abundant!
The Spirit of God is flowing all around you and it is His desire to flow through you.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit is not just a one time event it is on going cleansing empowering experience. This is why it is so important to keep our hearts and our ears open to the Holy Spirit at all times. God is sending you new blessings, new information, new direction, new inspiration every day. Your relationship with God is a life of abundant "Flow."

Notice that when water flows it aways moves in the path of the least resistance. It is God's desire that we live a life in the "Flow" living in the spirit with joy, love and happiness. Praise God for His goodness. Do not resist but rather persist to embrace the things of God.

Live in the "Flow" of God.

Steve Hart

Your Relationship with God

2007-11-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

Christianity is not a religion; it is a relationship with a living God. I can not stress enough the importance of your daily relationship with God. Are you hearing the voice of God? Does He tell you how much He loves you? If not, ask the Holy Spirit to open those lines of communication and God will speak to you. All relationships are based upon communication. Your communication with God is vital to your spiritual growth.

I get so excited when I read 1 Cor. 2:9-10, “Eye has not seen, nor ear has heard, neither has entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him. God has revealed them unto us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things, yes the deep things of God.”

Note; your communication with God is done in the spirit. This is why it is so important that we develop an understanding of how the Holy Spirit works.

It is just as important to learn how to worship God in the spirit. As God’s Children we all need to worship God to maintain a healthy relationship with Him. It is critical that you express your gratitude, adoration, and love for Him. This is done in a time of worship, be it alone or when we gather together.

Singing in the spirit, speaking in tongues, interpretation, and prophecy are all a part of worshiping in the spirit, chapter 14 of 1 Corinthians. If you have not yet experienced this type of worship then asked God to introduce them into your relationship. It is through worship that we find strength, revelation, comfort, and the joy of celebration. During worship we are reminded of who we are and our relationship with God.

Steve Hart

Understanding the Purposes of God

2007-10-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

There was a time in my life when I avoided giving my whole heart to God in fear that He would ask me to do something I did not want to do.

“Oh God don’t ask me to sell my house on the beach. Don’t ask me to visit the prisons or the sick.”

I would cringe when God would speak to me. I was so afraid He was about to ask me to give up something I desired or ask me to be responsible for some kind of ministry I had no desire to pursue.

My ego was not going to give in to something I did not want. But much to my surprise, the Holy Spirit made it clear to me this not how God works. That is my image of God, forcing me to do something I did not want to do.

The Holy Spirit reminded me if I made my agreements with God before I came to this physical world then why would I question them? The Holy Spirit said I would have never made my agreements if I knew they were something I would not truly desire.

As it turns out every thing that God has asked of me. He is only reminding me of what I agreed to before.

When I really opened my heart and trusted Him, I found the desires I did not want to give up were not want I really wanted after all.

This revelation has totally transformed my understanding of how God works. I know now that He will never ask of me something I did not agree to before. I now choose to remember every thing in my agreement that I might fulfill my purpose here on earth.

After all this is what gives me the greatest joy, fulfilling the purposes of God.

To read more on the agreements you have made, go to: http://www.thesecretagreement.com/

Steve Hart

My Early Years

2007-06-20T06:20:00.000-07:00

To better acquaint you with me I thought it would be fitting for me to tell you more about myself and where I came from. A detailed story of my early years is posted on another blog. It all took place during the "Jesus Movement" in the early 1970's. There are hundreds if not thousands who found their faith during that spiritual movement and still to this day confess that Jesus is their lord.

Here is the link to that page:

Go to:
http://thejesusmovementandersonindiana.blogspot.com/

The above photo was printed in the local newspaper back in 1972 in Anderson, Indiana. You will see me in the back, the tall guy facing the camera with a mustache, long hair, and my eyes closed as we prayed by laying our hands upon a brother who needed healing. Mark 16:18b & Act 28:8b.

There are more photos of me and the people God had put me with in my early years. Many of them are still in a ministry around the world.

You will notice that my real name is Steve Heifner. I changed my name to Steve Hart which is a family name on my mother's side of the family. Why? Because most people can not pronounce my real last name properly, so I changed it to make it easier.

Steve Hart

Upon This Rock!

2007-06-18T05:10:00.000-07:00

“Upon this rock I will build my church.” What was Jesus talking about when he said this in Matt.16-19?

This is the foundation of God's church. What is it?

It started when Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” They said, “Some say that you are John the Baptist, some Elias, others Jeremiahs or one of the prophets.” And then Jesus said, “But who do you say that I am?”

And Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

This is the foundation of “The Church!” There is but one invisible universal church which includes every Christian who makes this same confession no matter where they live, they are a part of the His church.

This is the foundation of the Success Church, anyone who calls upon the name of our lord Jesus Christ and seeks His kingdom.

Christianity is not a religion but a relationship with God. Religion is man’s study of God where Christianity is a relationship with God. Those who call upon the name of Jesus, God sends the Holy Spirit. A transformation takes place as he loves you, comforts you, and teaches all things.

Without this relationship with Jesus then Christianity becomes nothing more than a dead religion.

The Success Church celebrates life as you live it abundantly that God may be glorified.

Steve Hart

"Think and Grow Rich," by Napoleon Hill

2007-06-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

I know back in 1937 when Napoleon Hill wrote this book he was criticized by Christians for implying everyone could become financially rich. I can not say it is God’s will that everyone be monetarily rich. But it is His desire that we are all to be richly blessed and live an abundant life.

The words prosperity and abundance does not always mean financially. Hill's book was written to teach us the secrets behind creating wealth in all areas of our life including our bank accounts. But Hill's teachings applied to all areas of lives including health, relationships, family, careers, education, wisdom and spirituality.

I believe the teachings of this book are supported by scripture including the many universal principles which are introduced within this book, one being the Law of Attraction.

But it does not stop there. You need the Holy Spirit to give you guidance and direction.
The Holy Spirit will teach you how to use these universal laws to manifest God’s pupose into your life. The use of these laws without the Holy Spirit can be like a kid in a candy store. You may get what you want but end up getting sick at the same time.

By carefully listening to the Holy Spirit He will keep you safe. He loves you and knows your every need. He will teach you wisdom and insight to the things of God.

I am speaking from experience. I have learned to be content with very little so that I might be blessed with abundance. 1Phil. 4:11-13.

Right now I step out in faith with very little except for the message that God has given me, wisdom, understanding, and the Holy Spirit’s love and guidance.

I ask for your prayers and support.

Steve Hart

The Success Church???

2007-06-09T06:10:00.000-07:00

“The Success Church does not sound very Christian like to me.”

You don’t believe that God wants you to be successful? “Well?”

Through out history most Christians have not been taught that it is God’s desire that we live life abundantly. Christians have been taught we can only ask for abundance in spiritual blessings and not in the physical.

The truth is all things come through the Spirit. He wants you to have abundance in knowledge, your career, your relationships, your health, your home, as well as your finances.

In the book of Joshua the Lord instructs him to be strong and courageous so he may prosper. In verse 1: 8 it reads, “for then thou shall make thy way prosperous and then thou shall have good success.”

It is so sad that the church and much of society has tarnished the idea of success as something sinful. Success is not man’s idea but it is God’s plan. Success is part of the kingdom living here on earth.

The secret is, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you,” Matt.7:33.

I look forward to sharing with you more about this soon.

Seek God and ask Him to give you good success.

Steve Hart

Wanted: Musicians

2007-06-09T04:54:00.000-07:00

Wanted: guitar, bass, drums, & keyboards

For a semi-professional worship band, playing contemporary
Christian Worship music in the Cocoa Beach, FL area.

If you love God and you enjoy singing and playing skillfully
then call Steve at 321-258-8132.

The Gift Of The Holy Spirit

2007-06-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Do you still experience moments of being lost without direction? Do you seek change but you feel powerless? When you read the scripture do you still struggle for understanding? Does God appear to be a far off hiding in the heavens? Do you not hear God speaking to you?

If you are seeking direction, a power that will bring change, a deeper understanding, spiritual revelation, a direct connection to God so you can speak with Him and hear His voice, then the Holy Spirit is your answer.

The Holy Spirit is God. He is your direct connection to God. When Jesus ascended into the heavens he said he would send the Holy Spirit so He could live and express Himself from within us. This happened on the day of Pentecost as told in the second chapter of Acts. Jesus said the Holy Spirit would come as a baptism, Acts.1:5.

When you make a confession and acknowledge Jesus is God He will send the Holy Spirit to you. He is spirit so He is able to live within you. The Holy Spirit will immediately begin a cleansing within your soul. He will give you love, joy, peace, forgiveness, patience, self control and the power over anything that would separate you from God.

At the same time He will reveal to you God’s kingdom including your mission here on earth. It is His desire that you understand the deep things of God, 1 Cor. 2:10. He will transform your mind and teach you how to pray. Rom. 8: 26-27. He will teach you how to live a successful and an abundant life that you may glorify God. He will never leave you.

If the Holy Spirit is not yet present within your life and you desire Him, all you need to do is ask. Pray and ask Jesus to send the Holy Spirit into your life. Then in faith accept His baptism. Give thanks and worship Him and watch what happens.

I would be happy to pray with you and discuss any questions you may have.

Write me or call: theSuccessChurch@yahoo.com 1-800-504-4800

Defining Your Gifts

2007-05-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

I want to define what I mean when I talk about gifts. But before I do I want you to understand that all gifts are giving by God and with the gifts he sends the Holy Spirit to teach you how to use your gifts. He is your personal trainer, your coach.

Your dependency upon the Holy Spirit is critical if you want to be successful with your gifts. Beware of your ego would take credit for your gifts and miss use them. The Holy Spirit will give you wisdom. He will comfort you. He will guide you and teach how to best use your gifts. Be patient and pray, asking the Holy Spirit to give you direction.

In 1Cor.12:4-6 it reads, “There are diversities of gifts but the same Spirit. These are diversities of administrations but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operation but the same God which works all in all.”

This means that all gifts come from God but they may not function the same. Therefore I encourage you not to be critical of yours or another man’s gifts.

In the same passage nine gifts are mentioned such as “The Word of Wisdom” “The Word of Knowledge” “Faith” “The Gift of Healing” and so on. But this list is not the complete list.

Eph. 4:8 says, “When He ascended upon high He lead captivity captive and gave gifts unto men.” Then in verse 11 is another list of gifts as job titles. Each title would require the use of several gifts.

For example several of these job titles would require detailed gifts such as gifts in communication, the gift of persuasion or the gift of connectedness. These kinds of gifts would give a teacher the ability to express themselves, to influence others, and bring everyone into unity.

Some gifts are as simple as a beautiful voice for singing or the ability to draw or paint a picture. Others are gifted with numbers, writing, mechanical engineering, and architectural designing. Still other gifted in organizing, giving good customer service, leadership, and safety consciousness. All of these are gifts and talents from God.

Don’t make the mistake that I did, jumping from one job to another looking for the perfect one. I have been a janitor, a painter, a delivery man, a radio announcer, an advertising salesman, a chemical salesman, a retail store owner, an orderly, a nurse, musician, an actor, and a magician.

Instead of listening to the Holy Spirit and defining what my gifts and talents were, I spent years in frustration trying to figure out what my mission in life was to be. I did not find true fulfillment until I committed myself to what the Holy Spirit was telling me. When I did I made the most money, I found happiness, joy, and peace. I knew I was fulfilling my mission here on earth.

How do you find your calling? How do you figure out which gifts are yours?

Self-Discovery is path we must all walk. It all starts by getting quite, clearing out all the clutter in your head. Hear what the Spirit is saying. Prayer and meditation is a must.

If you need help I am here to help find your own success.

Contact me at: theSuccessChurch@yahoo.com or 1-800-504-4800

Steve Hart

Your Gifts and Talents

2007-05-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

Why is it so hard to identify your gifts and talents?

Before I answer this question, lets talk about the characteristics of what a gift is.

First, a gift is not something you deserve. You did NOT work for it, nor is it based upon whether you have been bad or good. A gift is given to you as an expression of love from the giver to you. If the person giving the gift is a good gift giver then he or she will know something about the receiver and therefore carefully chose the perfect gift, one that would be put to use, enjoyed and deeply appreciated by the receiver.

Secondly, gifts are commonly given for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, and baby showers but they should come unexpectedly. Each one should be a surprise. That is why we wrap them up to hide the gift. The giving of the gift is left in control of the giver. It has to be there desire to give the gift.

Spiritual gifts are similar. We do NOT earn them. They are given to us according to His will and purposes. Therefore His gifts give us great satisfaction and enjoyment. But His gifts are like tools which we joyfully use in the service of others. They equip us in fulfilling our mission here on earth.

Knowing these things, I trust that you know God is the true and good gift giver. In Matt. 7:11 Jesus said, “If you then, being delivered from evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?

Here is a secret, your gifts were chosen for you long before you arrived here and they are a part of your mission here on earth. Everyone has a mission, and the gifts that go along with it. I believe before you came to this realm you and God agreed upon your chosen mission. Now that you are here it is yours to remember where you came from and the agreement you made. You came from Spirit and you will return to Spirit.

Why are your gifts so hard to distinguish? Because they have been hidden.

Why would they be hidden? So you will know they have come from God. There is a chance your ego will want to take credit and exclude God. Therefore they are hidden to force you to make their discovery a spiritual experience and at the same time discover your mission. Your gifts are like treasures hidden deep with your soul waiting to be discovered and put to use.

We are some times blinded by our gifts. Other people may see them long before we discover them. Some gifts are so woven into your personality it is hard to know the difference between your gift and the real you.

Col. 1:9 “That you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding

What's Missing?

2007-05-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Is something missing in your life? Are you feeling frustrated or lost?
Are looking for adventure and direction? Do you want to feel special?

Over half of America is not happy with their lives, their jobs and their relationships.
What is missing? I think I have an answer.....

Do you know you have a mission given to you before you came to this place?

You are purposed to uncover this mission and to fulfill it while here in earth. You may share portions of your mission with others but each of us has our own unique calling to fulfill. This is what makes you special. You and only you can fulfill this mission. It is my desire to encourage you and help you fulfill your mission.

God has given gifts and talents to every man and woman. These gifts and talents are given to you so you may fulfill your mission. It is His desire that you identify them and use them.

The wisdom of Proverbs 18:16 reads, “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringth him before great men.” Does this sound exciting? When you understand the power that comes with your gifts and talents you will understand how this works.

I can tell you story after story how my gifts and talents have introduced me to numerous famous people. I have been a blessing to them and they have blessed me in return. These memories are like stones in your stairway to success.

Are you using your gifts and talents? Or are you hiding them?

Have you defined your mission? Your heart’s desires will be filled as you pursue your mission. I am here to help.

Please send me your email so I might invite you back to blog to hear more.

Steve Hart
Cape Canaveral, FL USA

Email me at: theSuccessChurch@yahoo.com

The Beginning

2007-05-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the beginning of my new ministry.

The Holy Spirit has been speaking to me about this for some time. But I have resisted.

Everyday he would remind me that now is the time. But I had questions.

I have been studying the scriptures for confirmation. But I was afraid.

He tells me to step out in Faith and He will build His Church. Therefore I have obeyed.

Pray for me that I may hear the voice of God. That my heart will be pure. That I put the love of God first in my life in service to others.

I have a vision of what this ministry is will be. The Holy Spirit has revealed to me a need for His people to understand the teachings of Jesus and what it means to be successful in all things that we live life abundantly. Giving God the glory in all things.

As I step out in Faith. I am believing that the Holy Spirit will bring to me men and women who will share with me this vision. They too will stand with me committed to see God glorified in His people through wealth and prosperity. That they will seek the kingdom of God here on earth.

This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it!

Steve Hart