C.D. Nesbitt Blog

Haiti: Devistation and Devilment?

2010-01-14T11:13:00.008-06:00

A couple days after the 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit
the nation of Haiti, its inhabitants are yet in grave
and increasing devastation. There is still a limited
amount of medical supply, violence is increasing, and
the bodies of the deceased fill the streets.

In the midst of this disastrous situation a prominent
televangelist made the following statement,
Many years ago, the island's people "swore a pact to
the devil." They were under the heel of the French...
and they got together and swore a pact to the devil.
They said, 'We will serve you if you'll get us free
from the French.'" "True story. And so the devil said,
'OK, it's a deal.' They kicked the French out. The Haitians
revolted and got themselves free. Ever since, they have been
cursed by one thing after the other."

During the crisis that Haiti is suffering such statements
over this platform are unnecessary and do not promote the
purpose of God sending His Son into the world. When social
darkness is apparent and crisis can be identified, isn't the
responsibility of a Christian to be a light? That requires
putting down political agendas, racial differences and even
religious hang-ups though.

What are your views concerning the televangelist's statement?
What advise would you offer to an individual that wants to be
involved in helping with the humanitarian efforts in Haiti?
Do you have any words of comfort and love for Haiti?

Extreme Makeover Challenge

2009-12-09T10:47:00.007-06:00

Here we are in the month of December, where has the
year went? Everysingle year millions of individuals make
New Year's resolutions after January 1st to outline their
goals for the New Year. As we embark upon this New Year
2010, let's do things a little different this year. Don't wait until
January to outline your planning and goals for the New Year,
do it today.

Join me and countless others for the 'Extreme Makeover'
Challenge. Similarto the reality show 'Extreme Makeover' every
week we will pin point areas for improvement within our lives and
work towards them. Download the challenge here.

For more information visit the C.D. Nesbitt website. It's time for
the new you! Let's join together today to make this 'Extreme
Makeover' Challenge a reality!

If there were something you could change about you, what would it be?
What do you plan on accomplishing in 2010?

D.C. Sniper's Execution Set For Tonight

2009-11-10T06:48:00.002-06:00

Over a three week period in the month of October
2002, the D.C. sniper emerged along with his accomplice
and took the lives of 10 people. After the most recent
denial of his appeal, John Allen Muhammad will be executed
by lethal injection tonight.

Muhammad's ex-wife broke the silence last night as she
appeared on Larry King, and said that she feels like she
was the ultimate target during Muhammad's rampage. This
fury is finally coming to an end or is it?

Some 7 years later what are your feelings about this incident?
Where were you when you heard about this escapade and what were your reactions?
Do believe that the sentence Muhammad received is fair?

Whitney Houston: Honesty The Best Policy?

2009-09-15T12:51:00.005-05:00

In a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey, Whitney Houston
discussed her very private struggles with her relationship
with Bobby Brown and the battle with her drug addition.

With Whitney's resurgence and recent CD release many are saying
that the private information that she shared on the Oprah
Show may alter the public's view of her. Oprah shared throughout
and after the show that it was the most powerful interview
that she has ever done.

Being captive all those year's in an abusive marriage and living
life on the edge with her drug abuse; doesn't she deserve to
sweep out her closet? It may be true that good news isn't celebrated
and bad news is often heralded!

Let's hear it from you:

Should Whitney have fully exposed her past?
Can she rebound from her broken past?
Have you been through something similar? Can you relate?

Obama: A Liar?

2009-09-11T15:15:00.006-05:00

During a recent Presidential speech on the topic of
health care, South Carolina representative Joe Wilson
shouted at the president "you lie"! On Thursday, Wilson
offered a apology, but then turned around and released a
YouTube video defending what he did saying "On these issues,
I will not be muzzled, I will speak up and speak loudly..."

Of course, in America we have freedom of speech but...

Should this kind of behavior be allowed?
Should Wilson have some kind of consequence?
What do you think about Obama's health care proposal?

Millionaire: Tips to Awaken the Entrepenuer Within

2009-08-24T06:14:00.006-05:00

Do you have a business idea locked up on the inside? Have
you desired to launch your business but seem to have no support?
Here's insight from the youngest African American CEO of
a publicly traded company. The interview is brief
but very motivating. Enjoy!

Should Brides Change Their Name?

2009-08-11T15:59:00.004-05:00

In the midst of our modernistic and technologically
advanced society a report was recently released to
prove that American's still hold true to traditional
beliefs. The study found that 70 percent of American's
believe that wives should take on the last name
of their husbands. Just 29 percent said that the wife
should keep her maiden name.

"One of the most interesting things is that a lot of people
assume that because language in general is gender-neutral,
that name change would also be one of those things in which
attitudes would be shifting towards being much more liberal."
"...Some studies have found that younger women are as likely
or more likely to change their name when they marry as their
baby boom counterparts. "It's not a straight age trend."

What are your beliefs?

From the Pits to Power: Discovering Untapped Income

2009-08-06T07:49:00.009-05:00

Teaneck mom sells apple cakes to avoid foreclosure

In these very lean economic times, Angela Logan was
threatened with the reality that she was just days
away from losing the house that she lived in for over
20 years.

That's when she refused to quit and submit to her troubles
and turned one of her favorite recipes for apple cakes into
a money maker.

Watch the video clip, this is an encouraging story about how
crisis doesn't have to bring out the worst, but it can indeed
bring out the best in a person.

What did you think about the story?
Have you been through a crisis lately that you've made it through?
Has crisis brought out of you hidden gifts or skills?

Real Housewives of Atlanta coming back July 30th

2009-07-27T22:36:00.003-05:00

To many the popular reality show seemed like it never
went off, but Bravo is bringing "Housewives of Atlanta"
back July 30th.

This season there is a change to the cast with DeShawn
Snow off the set and R&B singer and songwriter Kandi
Burruss as the fifth housewife. Many say that this season
will present more fireworks and drama than last season,
and the ratings are expected to sky rocket.

Does this show cast a negative stigma?
Are there any positive messages that the show portrays?
Is this reality show actual reality? Do women really behave like this?

Is Racism Still Alive?

2009-07-23T07:47:00.004-05:00

The incident with Harvard's professor and scholar Henry Louis
Gates Jr. caused quite a stir this past week. The news of Gates
arrest was even spoken of by President Obama during Wednesday's
presidential address. Check it out...

What do you think about this situation? Furthermore, do you
believe that racism is still alive in America?

Gospel Artist Deny Leading Michael Jackson to Christ

2009-07-08T22:43:00.004-05:00

On June 25th the world stood in amazement as it was announced that
pop star Michael Jackson died. Many just could not believe that the
pop icon had actually died, especially just before his newest tour was
about to kick off. To top that, what caused others to stand in
disbelief was the news that was recently shared by two well known
gospel artists.

Andrae and Sandra Crouch announced that despite the rumors
circulating that they led Michael Jackson to Christ before his
death, that it was not actually the case. According to Andrae,
"Andrae and Sandra did in fact visit with Michael Jackson 2 times,
once in the recording studio, and once at his home in the last 2 months".
At that time, "asking for prayer concerning the anointing of the Holy
Spirit, and how he could make his music more ‘spiritual'."

Do you have any thoughts as it relates to Michael Jackson and eternity?
Can fame, prestige, and acclaim bring eternal security?
If an unsaved person could read your post right now, what would you tell them concerning the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus?

The Book Release: Find Purpose, Find Life

2009-06-26T11:30:00.008-05:00

Tonight is the release night of the much anticipated
book "Find Purpose, Find Life". For more information
about the book and to order on line visit
www.publishrevealed.com

Here is a small excerpt from the book:

"When you are moving in the lane of true purpose there will
be the temptation to panic, because everything around you
is changing. It is the power of change that gives birth to
expanded capacity. The reason your life is changing is because
God is switching the scenery of your life to prepare you for
what’s to come. By disfiguring your environment, He leaves
you no point of reference, no crutch that will allow you to
ever be comfortable in that place again. It is in this place
of purpose that you say things like, “I’ve come way too far
to turn back now,” or “I’m on my back and the only way I can
look is up.” You have come too far in purpose to turn back
and too close to quit. Remember this: whatever you do, just
don’t give up!"

Bishop Jakes' Brush With Death

2009-06-22T23:17:00.003-05:00

Well known pastor of the 30,000 member church, The Potter's
House says that on June 7th he, "stood on the brink of eternity
and dangled on the cliff of destruction." Jakes reported that
there was a major gas explosion at his home that demolished
an entire portion of his home.

It so happened that Jakes canceled a meeting on the same day
of the explosion, and if he had not he and others would've been
in the same room as the explosion.

How To Remain Positive In a Negative Environment

2009-06-22T09:05:00.002-05:00

It is not a persons surroundings that determine their success,
but instead the internal determination to persevere through
the circumstances of life.

When you are on a path for success you must have a made up
mind not to allow anything to deter you. Here are a few insights
to stick to 'plan A' and ignore the possibility for a 'plan B'.

Insight #1: Stop Eating Junk Food
Junk food is known for having no nutritional value. Frankly, there
are some associations and conversations that have no relational
value, and are nothing more than a waste of time. It is only when
you are in an environment, but are not willing to allow the junk
from your environment to become a part of your life, that you
will be able to maintain your pathway to success.

Insight #2: Remember Altitude Determines Attitude
We usually hear this statement read backwards, "Attitude
determines altitude", but it is the positioning of your thoughts
that frame your reality. A low level thought life produces a low
level reality, but a God level thought life produces God level reality.

Insight #3: Don't Get Trapped By Your Trap
Be careful to guard that little instrument right beneath your
nose. It is one of the smallest parts on the human body but
can make huge impact whether positive or negative. Remember,
think before you speak because you can never take back a word
that leaves your mouth. Words have the power to kill or heal;
it's your choice in how you use them.

Insight #4: Utilize Solution Oriented Thinking
It doesn't take a genius to identify a problem but it is definitely
genius to solve a problem. When there is dysfunction present in
a person, place or thing; the majority spend most of their time
talking about what's wrong, what they wouldn't do, and what
they think. None of that 'Problematic Oriented Thinking' will
bring change to the dysfunction at hand. We must shift from a
position of being reactive to being proactive. Next time you
have the opportunity to participate in 'Problematic Oriented
Thinking', don't waste your time speaking about the problem;
spiritual folks speak to problems.

Words To Grow By

Keys To Defeat Procrastination

2009-06-17T00:28:00.004-05:00

Do you sense that greatness is on your life? Are you ready to
walk into your dream? Have you made up in your mind that
you're not going let anything stand in your way. Well, if that
the case, then it's time to talk about some practical ways to
get one of life's biggest enemies out of the way!

Here a few keys to defeat procrastination:

Key #1: Morning Can Happen At the Night Time of Life
The Latin meaning of procrastination is, "until the morning". Many
people wait "until the morning" of their lives to live out their dream,
and ignore the night-time moments before the morning. Remember,
it's not what you don't have that makes the difference, but it's
learning to use what you've got.

Key #2: Raise Your Standards
Don't allow yourself to settle in the place of mediocrity. Make up in
your mind that you will not accept anything less than the best for
your life.

Key #3: Connections Occur When You Make A Move
In traveling all over the country, I understand now that the only
way to catch a connecting flight is to move from the city that you
were last in. There is a lot of opportunity out there, but you have
to get off your seat of 'do-nothingness' and make a move. You
can't connect with anything or anybody sitting still, it's time to
get on the move. The next move is on you!

Key #4: Remember That Success is Intentional
No one just wakes up one morning and says, "Wow I have my
Master's Degree"! The truth of the matter is every accomplishment
that you will make in life happens through setting goals and releasing
strategy.

Key #5: Train Yourself To Think Ahead
Don't wait for anyone to hype you or help you. In order to accomplish
anything great there has to be a measure of self-motivation down on
the inside of you! The key here is; seeing yourself in the future and
making the necessary sacrifices to get there.

Key #6: Stop Fearing Success and Don't Lean Towards Failure
Deprogram yourself from any negative apprehensions relative to
what you desire to ascertain. Remember, everything that you do
from now on; you've been destined to prosper at!

Words To Grow By

5 Important Questions To Ask Yourself Before Committing To A Relationship

2009-06-10T18:06:00.002-05:00

You are valuable and it's important to recognize that. In order to
maintain and increase the value upon your life it is in your best
interest to connect with people that will celebrate you and not
tolerate you. Whether the prospective relationship is platonic or
romantic. Ask yourself these five questions before entering into
that relationship.

1.) Is it Worth My Time?
Contrary to popular belief, money isn't the most valuable thing
one can have in a lifetime; time is! Remember this your not getting
any younger and you just don't have time to waste time at this point
in your life. Time is God's gift to us, but what we do with that time
is our gift to God.

2.) Am I Operating Out Of A Lopsided Perspective?
This is another word for the 'rebound syndrome'; you know
something to do because something else didn't work out. The
best thing to do after you've just had your emotions shaken by
a situation or relationship of the past is to take sometime and
"DO YOU"! You'll thank yourself in the long run.

3.) Do the Withdrawal's exceed the Deposit's?
In the banking institution, an overdraft occurs when there have
been more withdrawal's than deposits. Frankly, many relationship
look exactly like a bounced account; just flat out broke! Never
connect with someone that is taking and never giving. Remember
love gives, and lust takes! The people that you've got to have in
your life for this season must come loving you just for who you
are, and not for what you have.

4.) Is This A Past or Forward Move?
It would be surprising, to look back over your life and see the
cycle of insanity that persists in various areas. Insanity is
defined as doing the same thing over and over again, but
expecting a different result. Remember in order to get a
different result in your relationships ask yourself, "Does
this choice feed into a cycle or pattern within my life?"
Determine not to go backwards, it's time to move forward!

5.) Is This A Compete or Complete Relationship?
People that are for you never compete against you, but instead
understand that they have been sent to complete you! Watch
out for people that try to get within your enter circle too quickly,
they could be there to attempt to steal the greatness upon your life.
Relationship aren't a competition; they are for completion.

Love Challenge...Day 5

2009-06-06T21:38:00.004-05:00

Transformation is defined as, "An act, or process, or instance in
change of structure, appearance or character. A conversion,
revolution, makeover, alteration or renovation." There is nothing
like seeing someone's life transformed for the better.

Love Challenge #5: Take the time to contact someone and invite
them to church with you tomorrow (that means you will have to make
plans to go yourself...smile). Remember all things are possible!

Happy Love Day!

Love Challenge...Day 4

2009-06-05T12:46:00.003-05:00

Many times our discomforts are someone else's blessings. We often
find ourselves complaining about what we don't have, but fail to
realize that we are better off than we realize. My grandmother would
always say, "Boy, there is someone that is worse off than you".
Remember that true acts of love won't always be convenient. We
must learn to sometimes be inconvenienced for someone else's
convenience.

Love Challenge #4: During the course of the weekend (Friday-
Saturday) pull out your clothes that don't fit you anymore or ones
that you don't wear and donate them to a local outreach.

Happy Love Day!

Love Challenge...Day 3

2009-06-04T08:59:00.006-05:00

There is a idiom that refers to being "the Good Samaritan". "The
Good Samaritan" refers to someone that assists others when they
are at the point of need, with no discussion of compensation, and
no thought of reward."

Love Challenge #3: Throughout the course of the day perform an
act of "the Good Samaritan" and buy someone a meal. Remember,
there's always someone worse off than you.

Happy Love Day!

Love Challenge...Day 2

2009-06-03T08:18:00.002-05:00

We live in a very fast paced society, and it can become
easy to forget that there are actually others around us
that have various needs and pressures just like we do.

Love Challenge #2: For everyone that you encounter
today, find something nice to say to them. You can
build a person up by the power of the words that you
speak.

Love Challenge... Day 1

2009-06-02T08:43:00.011-05:00

Remember, love is not true love until it is given away. Today

is the first day of the 'Love Challenge' and it's time to give some

love away.

Love Challenge #1: Take time throughout the course of your
day to send out at least three emails to those you know, letting

them know how much they mean to you and your appreciation for them.

Happy Love Day!

The Love Challenge

2009-06-01T15:09:00.003-05:00

No, this is not an advertising pitch for 2010's Valentine's
Day! It is simply what it is, a 'Love Challenge'.

Love can not be characterized as true love until it is first
given away. Yes, love doesn't capitalize in taking but it is
centered around giving. One of the powerful elements in life
that many individuals overlook is the value of relationships.
Someone once said, "Relationships are the keys to one's future".
If that is a true statement shouldn't we be working towards
developing those relationships in our lives on an everyday basis.
In addition, our society is in a fragile place and can use individuals
to stand up and make a difference.

Well, that's where the challenge comes into play! Everyday, for
the next week you will be given a 'Love Challenge'. The goal
is to implement the challenge throughout the course of your day.
Remember, this challenge is for everybody (married or single).
You will receive your first challenge June 2nd by 9:00 a.m CST.

There are two things I will ask you to do: (1) Acknowledge that you
are accepting the challenge (2) Send the challenge to others you know

LET'S SPREAD SOME LOVE!!!

Angels, Demons & the spirit world

2009-05-28T10:50:00.005-05:00

The recent release of the movie "Angels and Demons"
featuring Tom Hanks has again sparked an interest in
the possibility of an invisible world.

In a recent survey, "40% of those interviewed strongly
agreed that satan is not is not a living being but is
a symbol of evil.” 19% said they “agree somewhat” with
that perspective. A minority indicated that they believe
Satan is real by disagreeing with the statement: one-quarter
26% disagreed strongly and about one-tenth (9%) disagreed
somewhat. The remaining 8% were not sure what they believe
about the existence of Satan."

Do you believe that satan exists? Have you went to see the
movie "Angels and Demons"? If so, what did you think about
it? Any other comments about the spirit world?

For Better or For Worse

2009-05-26T09:20:00.003-05:00

What would you do after something like this?

Got Twitter?

2009-05-25T22:13:00.003-05:00

Do you have Twitter yet? It will allow you to communicate with others in a different way than email, blogs, and even the traditional website. After wrestling with the idea for a couple of months I finally gave in and set up an account. It is actually a great thing!!!

The element that makes Twitter really nice is the fact that you can connect it with your FaceBook account and many other applications as well. In addition, you can send messages to Twitter directly from your phone, TwitPic your photos, and even connect Twitter to your google calendar.

Now that you have all that information concerning Twitter, make the move so that you can converse more efficiently. What are you waiting for?

It's Not Too Late: 10 Inexpensive Ways to Get and Stay In Shape

2009-05-25T14:43:00.004-05:00

O.K., you didn't get an early start on getting shape, but it's
definitely not too late! Today marks the very first day of
summer and there are something that you can do to get in
shape and become the healthy you, you've always wanted
to be.

It is actually God's will that we exemplify health in each and
every area of our lives (spirit, soul, and body). 3 John 1:2 NLT
says, "Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you
are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit." Remember,
your body is the vehicle that drives your purpose in live. Without a
healthy body, fulfilling God's ultimate purpose for our lives will
be a challenge if not an impossibility.

Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today. It's time to feel
your best, look your best, and be your best. Here are 10 inexpensive
ways to get and stay in shape.

Instead of driving, ride a bicycle whenever possible.
Limit eating out, and purposely prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Take a morning or evening walk with a person(s) that have the same goals
Drink more water
Eat less later in the day
Instead of taking the elevator take the stairs
Rent an exercise video from the library and workout at home
Locate introductory discount coupons or invitation periods at the gym
Journal your daily exercise and eating to stay on track
Break up your meals into 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day

What are your goals for weight loss? Have you already
began to utilize any of these pin-points? Share your ideas
about how being in shape corresponds with the Christian life?

In Love... or Fresh Out of Love?

2009-05-13T23:35:00.010-05:00

Yesterday, the news program I was watching reached a commercial, and as I began to flip through a few channels, one of the courtroom shows caught my attention. The episode that I tuned into was a divorce case between a husband and a wife that had been married for just under a year. The reason for filing for divorce was "We just weren't meant."

In new statistics just released, "One out of three Americans have been divorced at least once." George Barna, who directed the study, noted that Americans have grown comfortable with divorce as a natural part of life. We must ask ourselves the question: has this contentment always been a part of our society? It's almost impossible to partake of some type of media these days and not hear of a relationship on the rocks or a marriage that has ended in shambles.

"There no longer seems to be much of a stigma attached to divorce; it is now seen as an unavoidable rite of passage....Interviews with young adults suggest that they want their initial marriage to last, but are not particularly optimistic about that possibility. There is also evidence that many young people are moving toward embracing the idea of serial marriage, in which a person gets married two or three times, seeking a different partner for each phase of their adult life."

So, where do we go from here? What are your views on divorce?

What effects do divorces have on society?
Is it biblical to divorce? If so, on what grounds?
Do you believe in soul mates?
A divorce can be quite devastating. Is there life after divorce?

Fear of the Flu?

2009-04-30T23:16:00.009-05:00

For the past week now, the media's top story all across the world has been what is known as the "swine flu." As of yesterday, there were 2500 suspected cases of swine flu in Mexico and 159 suspected deaths. The U.S. has reached 64 suspected cases of the swine flu with just 1 death reported.

To place things in proper perspective, 20,000 people die from flu related illness each year. Many media sources are suggesting that this outbreak has the potential to unfold into a major pandemic; but does it really? What many media sources will not take the time to say is that many Americans lived through the 1968 "Hong Kong flu" which was very mild and the 1976 "swine flu," for which the vaccine did more damage than the flu itself.

President Obama recently commented on the swine flu, saying that the outbreak warrants concern, but not panic. With that being said, how do you feel about the way the nation is processing the outbreak?

Are the media and public officials presenting the world with a dramatization of the flu, where facts and fear are beginning to intermingle?
What does the bible say about fear, and how can we implement God's word in times like these?
Have you taken any precautions since you heard about the flu outbreak?

The New Abortion Trend

2009-04-24T12:36:00.008-05:00

There seems to have arisen a new trend concerning the topic of abortion in our nation. Just recently, in an Associated Press report, a woman arrived "in flip-flops and in tears" at an abortion clinic after walking for over an hour to get there. She was there to have her fourth child aborted after her boyfriend lost his job. It was reported that the woman originally desired to have the child, as she had previously received prenatal care, but in review of their budget and expenses, they decided not to have the baby.

It's a heart-wrenching story, but it is the latest trend in our country. As pro-choice and pro-life advocates are at different ends of the spectrum concerning their stances on abortion, could anyone have seen this coming? The recent trend is that individuals are having abortions because of the turn in the nation's economy.

Just the other week, there was a British official named Jonathan Porritt, who said it was his desire to cut his country's population in half for the sake of the environment. Even though there might be a scarcity of economic resources, is it o.k. to delete the lives of humans to ensure a better quality of living?

How does this new trend affect your stance on being pro-life or pro-choice?
What are your views concerning abortion?
What measures do you believe need to be enacted to bring closure to this new trend? Or is it something that should take place in our nation?

Timothy Wright: The Life and Legacy

2009-04-24T11:30:00.004-05:00

The Grammy-nominated gospel singer and song writer Timothy Wright has died at the age of 61. Many knew Wright by his upbeat songs and mass choir appeal that many choirs all over the world sang and patterned themselves after.

In July, Wright was in a car crash that killed his wife, Betty, and their teenage grandson. He was paralyzed from his chest down and was in rehab, but was determined to get back to what he loved to do. Thank God for the gift of Pastor Timothy Wright.

Some of his more notable songs included Certainly Lord, Come Thou Almighty King, I Won't Let Go of My Faith, Who's On the Lord's Side, Yes I'm a Believer, & Trouble Won't Last Always...just to name a few.

Were you ever in a choir/group that sang any of Pastor Timothy Wright's songs?

If you could take yourself back to that moment, what was your experience singing one of Pastor Wright's songs?

Same-Sex Marriage: Is It Here To Stay?

2009-04-22T09:38:00.004-05:00

Recently, there has been a resurgence of the topic of
same-sex marriage in various forms of media. Just
last evening there was a very heated discussion on
Larry King live featuring Perez Hilton debating issues
relating to same-sex marriage.

In addition, there is controversy surrounding what Miss
California said about same-sex marriage in Sunday's Miss
U.S.A. pageant. Her answer included the phrase that same-
sex marriage was not "biblically correct". Many people
speculate the reason she lost the pageant is specifically
connected to what the Miss U.S.A. judges classify as a wrong
answer to the question relating to same-sex marriage.
Should she have just communicated a politically correct
answer to preserve her win as Miss U.S.A?

Within the last month the Iowa state Supreme Court ruled that
same-sex couples have the right to marry, and Vermont has
followed the same ruling. The District of Columbia has also voted
to recognize same-sex weddings done elsewhere as official, and
in New York the governor has consented to sign legislation
legalizing same-sex marriage.

Is same-sex marriage here to stay?
What are your feelings about same-sex marriage?
What is the connection between same-sex marriage and politics?
What should be the churches stance concerning same-sex marriage?

National Eat Out Month

2009-04-07T21:39:00.009-05:00

The Houlihan's Restaurants, Inc. has taken the initiative to
declare the month of April as a national holiday 'National Eat
Out Month'. The Vice President said, "69 percent of adults
with children surveyed say purchasing meals from restaurants,
take-out and delivery places makes it easier to manage their
day-to-day lives."

In what many classify as an economic crisis in our nation, statistics
prove that many individuals are still spending big money on
quick meals.

If you were to estimate how much money you spent every month eating out how much would it be?
How often did you eat out as a child? How does that affect your patterns of eating out in your adult life?
What are some money saving tips you practice that you can share to help save someone else a few dollars at the end of the month?

Technology Sabbath: Take the Challenge!

2009-03-27T11:53:00.010-05:00

WARNING!!! This may be one of the most difficult challenges
ever! :>)

Many individuals have grown accustomed to daily interaction
with various forms of technology like: The Blackberry, I-Phone,
Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, text messaging, emailing, and to
continue would take until tomorrow.

According to a survey taken in 2005, "Most Americans including
children, spend at least nine hours a day watching TV, surfing the
web, or talking on their cell phones. Of those hours, one-third of
the time is spent using two or more of those media at once."

So here's the challenge: Take a Technology Sabbath!

Give yourself at least 24 hours to get prepared
Notify individuals that you will be unplugging for 24 hours (this will eliminate their questions about you not responding immediately)
Just DO IT! :>)
Find alternatives to using technology (take a walk, start writing your book, do a bible study, meet a friend for coffee or tea, go to the library, have a family talk, journal)

*It's going to hurt bad but I will begin my challenge March 30 midnight. How about you? Send this blog to all those you know that would be up for the challenge.

Christian Dating: Is There Such A Thing?

2009-03-25T08:54:00.008-05:00

TV anchor Kimberly Kennedy was madly in love with with a
man that she was about to marry when he left her at the alter.
From there a downward spiral of events occurred within her
life as she lost her career, health, and money.

She now has a new book entitled, "Left At the Alter: My Story
of Hope and Healing for Every Woman Who Has Felt the
Heartbreak of Rejection." A common thread within her book is
that she identifies that she put her faith on the sidelines during
her time of dating. Kennedy says, "When you fall in love with
God, you can be assured of one special thing: you will never be
left at the altar. Instead, you will live with him happily ever
after. And the honeymoon will never end."

A few questions for you:

Do you believe in Christian dating?

Do you believe in soul mates? If so, is dating necessary?

What should the boundaries of Christian dating be?

Is o.k. to date someone that is outside of your faith/religion?

Is it o.k. to be intimate during Christian dating (kissing, holding hands, sex, etc.)

Too Much or Not Enough?

2009-03-25T07:46:00.006-05:00

Recently, I ran across a clip that was quite interesting. It
showed a church celebrating their 132nd Church Anniversary.
During the clip, various generations were acknowledged and
that's where it became really interesting... to say the least :>)
To get the true essence of it... watch it all the way through.

When you see the clip I would like to hear from you. Was it too
much or not enough?

Click here to see the clip!

God-Proofing Schools?

2009-03-20T12:55:00.010-05:00

The Lakeview Elementary
School in Nashville,
Tennessee is the latest
example of God-
proofing within the
school system.

In a yearly event,
"See You at the Pole"
there were hand drawn
posters created by the
students and their families,
that school official ordered
to be altered. The school
officials ordered for the
messages on the posters
"Bless God in the U.S.A"
and "In God We Trust" to
be covered up before they
could be displayed
throughout the hallways.

The Alliance Defense Fund Attorneys
filed a lawsuit on the behalf of the parents
and students at Lakeview Elementary
School there in Wilson County. The lawsuit
states that the schools actions violates the
14th Amendment due process and the
Establishment Clause.

It was not many years ago that Madalyn Murray O'Hair
said that she didn't want prayer in the schools and the
world witnessed that in 1962 prayer was abolished from
the School System within the United States of America.

What is your stance on this subject? Should the words
"In God We Trust" and "Bless God in the U.S.A." be
allowed to be posted within our schools?

FREE Online Spiritual Gifts Analysis!

2009-03-18T21:36:00.002-05:00

I just ran across an online spiritual gifts analysis for individuals
and for groups as well. It even includes a 4-5 page print out if
you so desire. Please feel free to share this with others as well.

Try it out an let me know what you think.

My Own Mind...?

2009-03-18T21:01:00.004-05:00

My wife and I were driving down the street and
passed a church that had this very strange message
on a sign that was on their property. I couldn't believe
my eyes so I stopped right in the middle of the street,
put our vehicle in reverse and said quite loudly, "I
can think of at least 5 reasons why my own mind could
never be my own church!"

Here are the 5 reasons I came up with. I might have missed a few
so I would like to enlist your help.

I would get a little lonely from time to time.
With what pops up here sometimes, would it actually be classified as a church?
What will happen to the church when my physical body expires?
My church would always be closed due to reconstruction and renovation.
I guess I would never own the church and always be leasing, because the owner of the church is the one who gave me my mind.
*I had to add a sixth reason: If the statement on the sign is correct, why is it outside of their actual church building?

Anymore?

Religious or Missional Minded?: You Take the Survey!

2009-03-16T10:45:00.007-05:00

Clicking here will take you directly to the survey. Leave a comment about the results of your survey.

Still Teaching Leadership: John Maxwell Goes To Jail

2009-03-15T22:07:00.007-05:00

Leadership guru John Maxwell was arrested this past
Thursday at the Palm Beach International Airport for trying
to board a plane with a concealed weapon. In his blog,
Maxwell says that someone gave him a handgun as a gift and
he made the mistake of not taking the gun out of his bag.

I have to say that I love the transparency that John Maxwell
displays concerning this mishap in his life. Despite the
sensitive nature of this situation and the swarming reports of
the media, Maxwell still takes time to share leadership principles
from his downfall in his blog. Thanks John Maxwell for
exemplifying true leadership!

What are your thoughts?

Wilkerson's Urgent Message- What Does This Mean To You?

2009-03-14T19:51:00.006-05:00

David Wilkerson, the founding pastor of Times Square
in New York City and one of the leading voices to Christian
minister's released an urgent message to the world on
March 7th.

In his blog, Wilkerson says that "an earth shattering calamity
is about to happen. It is going to be so frightening, we all
are going to tremble-even the godliest among us. It will engulf
the whole megaplex, including areas of New Jersey and
Connecticut. Major cities all across America will experience
riots and blazing fires- such as we saw in Watts, Los Angeles
years ago. There will riots and fires in cities worldwide. There
will be looting- including Times Square, New York City. What
we are experiencing now is not recession, not even a depression.
We are under God's wrath. In Psalms 11 it is written, "If the
foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?"'

Wilkerson continues by saying, "If possible lay in store a thirty-
day supply of non-perishable food, toiletries and other essentials.
He closes the message with, "I do not know when these things
will come to pass, but I know it's not far off. I've unburdened my
soul to you. Do with the message as you choose."

Could there be a message that God is trying to get across to the
world? What does this mean to you?

A New Revelation: Gay Inclusion?

2009-03-12T21:01:00.008-05:00

Once at the forefront of a major christian movement
and classified as a mega church, Chapel Hill Harvester
Church has been through more than its share of issues
within the past few years. Similar to many individuals all over
the country and even internationally, I too in the later 90's
would watch the Sunday morning broadcasts of this ministry.
I would often stand amazed at the power of God sweeping through
the sanctuary, and the masses of multicultural worshipers that
filled the auditorium week after week. Now the congregants have
diminished from over 4,000 to under 1,000 in weekly attendance.
You may ask the question, why?

Recently, the newly installed pastor of just three years D.E.
Paulk began preaching a doctrine called, "Gay Inclusion". Just
7 or 8 years ago Christendom was rocked by Carlton Pearson's
announcement of him leaving the message of biblical Christianity
to herald the message of the gospel of "Inclusion". Unfortunately,
the doctrine of "Gay Inclusion" takes it to the next level. Paulk says
this persuasion is a "creation of groups of people all looking for the
answers". He goes as far to say that he believes that in several years
those that are following him probably won’t be called a church
anymore, but will be classified as a community.

Is this going too far? What can be done to bring restoration
at this point?

Celebration Time is Here!!!

2009-03-02T16:39:00.005-06:00

This week Glory Center International will celebrate 4 years of
ministry. Kicking off the celebration on Thursday March 5th
is Bishop Larry Trotter and the Sweet Holy Spirit choir of Chicago,
Illinois. There will be many, many more guests all week long.

We're looking forward to a great time of celebration. Hope to see
you there!

Leadership Nuggets

2009-02-24T07:24:00.005-06:00

I was going through some pictures on my laptop
and I found this picture. This particular picture
was taken last October as I was driving. Alright,
I know you're asking the question, "How was he
driving and taking pictures at the same time"?

Although, I took the picture in October I clicked
on it today and it really spoke volumes concerning
leadership. Here are some leadership nuggets:

Every great leader has to first be a great follower (servant).
Great leadership not only provides instruction but also direction
The steps of a great leader are visible, although their sacrifice can often be invisible.
Just when you feel like giving up there is someone around you that is counting on you to stay on course.
Progress will keep a leader encouraged as they are going through the process on their way to the promise.
A great leaders call is not just to effect change in their immediate generation, but it provides strength for generations to come.
Leaders provide mentor-ship that promotes true discipleship.
True mentor-ship is men being able to take a tour of the whats, the wheres, the whens, the whys, and the hows of a leaders journey.
The growth of a leader can be found within their willingness to keep moving in the midst of challenges.
The origin of leadership excellence begins when a leader understands that details matter.
Vision cultivates the passion necessary to complete ones assignment

I would really like to hear from you on this blog. This will provide others insight to see what you see from the picture as it relates to leadership.

Winter L.E.A.D. Summit recap

2009-02-22T19:45:00.003-06:00

The L.E.A.D Winter Summit was totally phenomenal. The wealth of
leadership information that was shared during the weekend was
life changing! G.A. staff, you guys are great!

The entire L.E.A.D Winter Summit product package will be available
very soon. I'm already looking forward to the L.E.A.D Spring Summit!!!

Less than 48 hours away!

2009-02-19T12:43:00.007-06:00

We are less than 48 hours away from the L.E.A.D. Winter Summit.
This set time of leadership empowerment is going to be totally
revolutionary. You will also want to visit the C.D. Nesbitt blog
after the L.E.A.D. Winter Summit to see footage and receive special
leadership updates. The countdown is on; I'll see you there!

We'll as of 4:00 p.m. this is how my desk looked at the office.
I usually utilize computer software, but I sense that something
really special is going to take place! I made this mess on my desk
just for you :>)

Anywhere near the Midwest on February 21st?

2009-02-17T12:02:00.007-06:00

If you are within flying or driving distance of Champaign, Illinois on February 21st, I would highly recommend you attend L.E.A.D. Winter Summit '09 hosted at 'The Glory Center' from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Glory Alliance only hosts these one of a kind summits four times a year. This would be a great time to receive leadership insights to assist you in maximizing your leadership potential this year!

I would bring my entire team since it is only $25 for registration which includes breakfast, lunch, and an attractive Summit packet
(including notes for each session, a free CD, and the latest innovative leadership insights). Here's the registration link, click here.

In addition to what I just stated, let me give you a sneak
peek of what additional benefits you will receive in this year's
L.E.A.D Winter Summit:

*Strategies for Strong Leadership
*Principles of Time Management and Strategic Planning
*Networking Opportunities with like-minded leaders
*and much, much more!!!

My team and I are looking forward to sharing with you
during L.E.A.D Winter Summit.
For more information and registration click here.

I'll see you there!

Thank God for spiritual parents

2009-02-16T23:56:00.011-06:00

One of highlights from last week was for us to spend
some quality time with our spiritual parents, Drs. John
and Vickie Tetsola. We love you guys!

My Valentine

2009-02-13T16:10:00.007-06:00

My wife and I flew out to New York City for business.
While in New York we took some time to relax at Times
Square. I wanted her to know that she is my one and only
valentine. I hope she reads this, I might get a few brownie
points!

By the way, this picture was taken at 3:30 a.m. This is
way too late for us to be up! We are usually under the
bed by 10:00 p.m. but somehow we're still vibrant and smiling.

Have We Forgotten?

2009-02-09T03:52:00.003-06:00

I have actually been up since 2:45 a.m...

I prayed; then cleaned; and finally I tuned into a program on T.B.N. Finally, I realized why God woke me up. The program that I viewed displayed various people groups in various parts of the world that God was visiting in very special ways. The program showed footage of miracles, healing, and the hunger of people for the presence of the Lord that were in very disadvantaged situations.

The question that I continued to hear in my spirit was, "Can it happen here"? Immediately something rose up within me that said, "Yes, it can"! Has the Westernized Church forgotten what's really important? We've built bigger buildings; developed major marketing and advertising campaigns; facilitate frequent conferences; and speak about prosperity; but have we abandoned the Gospel of the Kingdom?

Watch the clip and see does a "Yes, it can" arise out of your spirit.

Foundation Is Important

2009-02-07T13:02:00.007-06:00

This past week I had the wonderful privilege of being a part of a celebration in my sons classroom. Every year on the 100th day of school each father is invited to spend an hour
with their child doing various projects.

My son and I worked on building a structure with marshmallows and toothpicks. As we began to build the building we noticed that the higher we desired to build, the more foundation we needed. In order for our building to actually stand we had to spend most of our time on the foundation, and just got a few moments to build the actual building.

A thought to remember: Private preparation is essential for great public accomplishment.

'Start the Year Off Right' Reflections

2009-02-04T20:21:00.008-06:00

The exciting line up of events entitled 'Start the Year Off Right' is officially over at 'The Glory Center', but the fire from the month of January has leaped into February. This annual event which attracts thousands every January was a life changing event again this year that those in attendance will never forget. There are a few insights that I believe served as the common thread for this year's 'Start the Year Off Right' month of empowerment:

1.) Every strategy must have practical application. Without a realistic plan of action, good intentions will exist without achievement. Habakkuk 2:1-4 makes this very plain.

2.) Great achievement occurs by great teamwork. Multiply anything by one and there is never any increase. The only way that you can yield greater increase will occur through strategic teamwork.

3.) Major in the majors, and minor in the minors. By really taking inventory of our lives we can easily discover that from time to time we place insignificant things in top priority. When it's all said and done Matthew 6:10 must ring within our hearts, "Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done..."

Wow... this had to be the best year yet!!!