Letter from @Bishop_Hilliard [Cathedral International Updates‏]

Beloved of God, It appears that the "Occupy Wall Street" movement has gained momentum and evolved into numerous "occupy" protest throughout the world. Whatever our opinion is regarding the OWS movement, whether we welcome it as a catalyst for change within our nation, or whether we feel it reflects misplaced frustration, I firmly believe that our nation, even our world would experience an unprecedented revival if the saints of God focused on "occupying Jesus" as intently. The participants exude a firm belief and commitment to their movement. They are willing to sacrifice, to focus, to commit their time to undergird and promote their movement. They are not fearful of "what people will think" nor embarrassed to share their beliefs. The level of commitment exhibited by these demonstrators is admirable and my prayer is that we, the people of God, would demonstrate the same level of commitment to Christ in spreading the Gospel. Compromise of our beliefs is not an option. While we respect the beliefs of others, we must boldly stand on the truth of the Gospel. Here are a few suggestions for "occupying" or strengthening your relationship with Christ: Commit to learning and studying His Word so that you are ready to share, in love, what you believe and why you believe. (Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Timothy 2:15) Commit to prayer (and fasting when called) in order to strengthen your relationship with God and to be able to discern His will and to intercede for others. (Matthew 6:16-16, Romans 12:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, I Timothy 2:1) Commit to serving, sharing your gifts in order to strengthen the body of Christ and to bear fruit. (1 Corinthians 12) Commit to forgiving others who may have falsely accused or mistreated you because God requires our forgiveness of others. (Matthew 5:44, Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 18:21-35) Commit to faithful stewardship so that you are in a position to "support" the cause of Christ through his local church, as well as leave a legacy for future generations. (Malachi 3:8-12, Proverbs 22:7, Proverbs 13:22) Saints, given the very strange times that we live in, we can ill afford a "casual," Sunday-only approach to our faith. We must endeavor to "occupy Christ" more intently so that we're able to transcend cultural pressures and be true salt and light. If there is no recognizable difference between us and "the world", then how can we expect to win the lost? I pray that this will encourage you to strengthen your commitment to Christ so that you may be able to draw others to the one and only Living God!!! Please continue to pray for President Obama and all who serve in any level of leadership. Serving in any capacity of leadership, whether a "stay at home mom" or a corporate executive, can be challenging, frustrating and tiring at times; but, God never burdens us more than we can handle. Sometimes we make the mistake of taking on assignments that are not within His will. Seeking the Lord for His perfect helps to alleviate "burnout" and disillusionment. With that said, it is my hope that you will join me next week at the Annual Eagles' Gathering Leadership Conference, Wednesday, October 26 - Saturday, October 29. The theme for this year's conference is "My Humanity...His Divinity." The workshops and sermons are purposely designed to provide strategies and ideas for those serving in leadership, particularly as it pertains to ministry. Please click here to register or for more information. On Sunday, October 30th we will celebrate the 107th Anniversary of Cathedral International. Click here to read an article from one of the local newspapers. Please post a note of congratulations to our ministry.  Also, please join me on Tuesdays at 7 am ET for "Power Prayer." The dial-in number is (712) 432-0075, enter access code 198528#. Once on the call, please press *6 to mute your phone. May the love mercy, peace and joy of Christ be with you today and always. With Love and Concern, Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr., D.Min Senior Pastor @Bishop_Hilliard @TheCathedralNJ CathedralonFacebook