Pastor Doris G. Deckard

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Dallas, Texas, United States
Pastor Deckard is a native Texan and lives in Dallas with her family. She preached her first sermon in 2004 and was ordained in 2008. Pastor Deckard has continued to preach and teach at Church of the Solid Rock. She has made her life all about service and participated in many workshops and seminars, from parenting symposiums to diversity conferences along with speaking engagements. Pastor Deckard has traveled locally and internationally, preaching and singing for the Lord. She is a Partnered Ally with the University of North Texas Equality and Diversity Programs and received many awards for her various community-outreach programs and volunteer services. One ministry very close to her heart is Sand Branch. As a Preacher of the Gospel, Pastor Deckard desires to introduce more souls to Christ as she encourages others to focus more on spirituality and their relationship with the Lord. Pastor Deckard founded D. G. Deckard Ministries in 2007, a 501c3 Christian organization. She is also the founder and Pastor of Church the Solid Rock, Dallas TX; a place of worship, acceptance and spiritual growth.

Sunday, November 04, 2007

For The Sake of the Kingdom


1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful humankind so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

Jesus gave his all for the sake of the kingdom. He laid down his life for ours so that we may live life abundantly and not as people without hope. Jesus covered all sin which means, the penalty for sin has been paid so that we may live free from guilt and shame. Let us receive the free gift of grace (salvation) as it was freely given by way of Jesus’ blood on the cross; which means, we have no excuse NOT to live for God.

I'm sure there are things in all of our lives that we are afraid to give up but we must sacrifice them instead of being the sacrifice. We all have areas that need improvement such as more prayer & time with God, consistency in our giving, and a deeper faith. I’m reminded of the poor widow who gave all that she had to live on. (Mark 12:41-44) Why did she give up everything?? Why did she give her best?? What was her motivation for sowing that sacrificial offering?? It was her faith & love for God. She loved God so much until she was willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of the kingdom. Her faith did not allow her to focus on her poverty but on her need for God. At times, we find ourselves in need because we have refused to give or give up something. The more you give, the more you receive. Let the worldly possessions go because in the end, only what you do for Christ will last. That "stuff" will be passed on to another then it becomes a mute point in the end.
Oftentimes, we give a sacrificial gift with a monetary return in mind. In most cases, the sacrifice could indicate more peace and joy, a dependable and trustworthy friend, financial resources, better health, deeper sleep and good night’s rest; all of these positive outcomes. So many times, we put a price tag on our faith when faith is merely action. Action gives you results and God determines the outcome and the rewards are priceless!

Here's a suggestion: take your everyday, ordinary lives, your sleeping & eating habits, your work ethics and spiritual need then place them before God. Cast all of your cares on Him as a sacrificial offering. Embrace what God does for you. Don't become so well-adjusted to life’s cultures that you do not fit into God’s plan. Shake off the weight of the world and march on then watch God work miracles in your life.

Focus your attention on God and not the cares of worldly things. You'll be changed from the inside and that change will reflect outwardly. Keep in mind that this change may not happen immediately so you don't have anything to prove to the world, only to God. Those who are connected to the Spirit will see it and those who are linked to the carnality of life will miss it. You will prosper, your seed will prosper then your entire household will be richly blessed beyond measure. The outside/evil forces will know that it was God that brought you through!

Recognize what God wants from you then quickly respond. In today’s cultures, there is so much immaturity and immorality but God brings out the best when He considers you to be "good ground." He will develop the well informed, mature and moral you. Practice a high level of morality, integrity and maturity then see how God will unfold the BEST in you! Do it for the sake of the kingdom.

My son teaches me that perfect practice makes perfect. As believers, we should practice sacrificial giving of our time, talents & gifts; our financial resources, volunteering in our communities and encourage others to seek for a personal and intimate relationship with God. Let the Holy Ghost be your guide in all that you do and say. Practice these basic steps in a perfect way and see how God will work a miracle in your life. Do it for the sake of the kingdom!

God gave His very best to the world. Now, it’s our turn to give our best to God by walking in His will and in His way. If you do not have a clue, grab the inspired word called the bible and God will speak to you in many facets of your life.

Give up those doubts. You CAN make it without that person or thing that holds you back or deters you from fully committing your whole life to God and the work He has designed specifically for you. Cease from fear because God has not given His children the spirit of fear but the spirit of love, power and a sound mind.

No more procrastinating and short-changing God. Use the best resource, the Holy Ghost power, which God has instilled in you. The ultimate sacrifice is to give God your all as He gave His all. Let's do it for the sake of the kingdom!

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