Burn Your Boats!

photos by:  JODIE BRIM CREATIVE

YOU WERE BORN FOR GREATNESS! 

I know, I know, you’ve heard that before. Reality is, you’ve likely heard this Truth so often that it doesn’t really compute anymore. Besides, you assume it’s for everyone else, right? (Nope! I’m talking to YOU!)

Every human was born to be great and do great things! In fact, it’s in our very DNA! God engraved HIS image upon us, making us to resemble HIM! 

Tragically, most folks drudge through their days merely trying to stay afloat. It feels like “GREAT” has left the building, and you’re too tired to chase after it. (Yes, I’m reading your mail!) 

When I think of great warriors and winners throughout history, Alexander the Great comes to mind. This ancient commander found a way to conquer more than half of the known world at such a ridiculously youthful age!

One of the many things that made this icon such a success derived from his bold strategies that rushed into every battle with a do-or-die kind of attitude. 

In fact, in the journey to conquer the unconquerable Persian Empire, Alexander did something especially crazy! When he and his soldiers arrived on the shores of Persia with no chance of winning, Alexander instructed his men to burn their boats! (WHAT?!)

Yep! That’s what this fearless commander required – and he went first! 

In that moment, burning their boats left them no other option but to fight as if their very lives depended on it – because they did! 

Against insurmountable odds, this leader offered no Plan B! This now highly motivated band of brothers committed to victory at all cost, no matter how outnumbered they felt! And get this, THEY WON! They not only survived; they succeeded!

We humans have this tendency to seek middle ground. We don’t want to appear too extreme in any direction. It seems unseemly. After all, what will others say of us if we fail epically?

Listen friend, carrying around a Plan B usually kills Plan A! When you keep “something to fall back on,” you will almost inevitably fall back when the going gets tough. And friends, I promise you, if you’re doing anything worthwhile, the going will get tough!

It’s time to eliminate retreat from your situation! Whatever success you desire comes when you burn your boats!

I’m not suggesting you live recklessly or carelessly, but I AM suggesting you live fearlessly! 

Did you know God says, “Do not fear” 365 times throughout Scripture? He knew we’d need one for every single day of the year! 

If you can’t do it unafraid, then do it afraid! Just do it!

Decide what matters most to your heart. Then, listen for God’s heart in it all. He cares about all that matters to you! HE DOES! 

God made you for greatness! His dreams for you far exceed your ideas of greatness, I promise! Besides that, He’s got what it takes to get you there. 

So, strategize with the One who knows your end from your beginning. He has jotted your roadmap even before you ask. He knows the detours and the sharp turns that make you second guess your staying power.  

That’s why you’ve got to burn your boats! Throw your whole self into this pursuit like retreat is not an option! From this position, you’ll not only survive; you’ll succeed. 

You’ll be living proof that you were made for Greatness! Then, you can show someone else how to find their greatness, too!  For comments or prayer, please contact Dr. Lanier at HopeCommunityChurch.tv.

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