“It is a fatal mistake to assume that God’s goal for your life is material prosperity or popular success, as the world defines it. The abundant life has nothing to do with material abundance, and faithfulness to God does not guarantee success in a career or even ministry. Never focus on temporary crowns.”
―
Rick Warren
“In our final moments we all realize that relationships are what life is all about. Wisdom is learning that truth sooner rather than later. Don’t wait until you’re on your deathbed to figure out that nothing matters more.”
―
Rick Warren
“If you are a member of a small group or class, I urge you to make a group covenant that includes the nine characteristics of biblical fellowship: We will share our true feelings (authenticity), forgive each other (mercy), speak the truth in love (honesty), admit our weaknesses (humility), respect our differences (courtesy), not gossip (confidentiality), and make group a priority (frequency).”
―
Rick Warren
“God’s power is the key to any transformational change in our lives, including our health.”
―
Rick Warren
“Benefits of Being in God’s Family The moment you were spiritually born into God’s family, you were given some astounding birthday gifts: the family name, the family likeness, family privileges, family intimate access, and the family inheritance!7 The Bible says, “Since you are his child, everything he has belongs to you.”8 The New Testament gives great emphasis to our rich “inheritance.” It tells us, “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”9 As children of God we get to share in the family fortune. Here on earth we are given “the riches … of his grace … kindness … patience … glory … wisdom … power … and mercy.”10 But in eternity we will inherit even more. Paul said, “I want you to realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people.”
―
Rick Warren
“Love others as you love yourself.’”1 Learning to love unselfishly is not an easy task. It runs counter to our self-centered nature. That’s why we’re given a lifetime to learn it. Of course, God wants us to love everyone, but he is particularly concerned that we learn to love others in his family. As we have already seen, this is the second purpose for your life. Peter tells us, “Show special love for God’s people.”2 Paul echoes this sentiment: “When we have the opportunity to help anyone, we should do it. But we should give special attention to those who are in the family of believers.”
―
Rick Warren
“The fact is, it is selfish for a church to not want to grow. A church that says, “We’ve got enough people, we’ve got a nice fellowship. Our church is just the right size. We just need to focus on the members we already have.” That church is, in reality, actually saying, “The rest of the world can go to hell. We don’t care.”
―
Rick Warren
“In Eden, worship was not an event to attend, but a perpetual attitude.”
―
Rick Warren
“¿Has escuchado decir a las personas: «Esta noche no puedo ir a la reunión, pero estaré con ustedes en espíritu»? ¿Saben lo que significa esto? Nada. ¡No vale nada! Mientras estemos en esta tierra, nuestro espíritu solo puede estar donde esté nuestro cuerpo. Si tu cuerpo no está presente, no estás ahí.”
―
Rick Warren
“Gratitude asks, “Why me? Why do I get all that I have?”
―
Rick Warren
But we are commanded to recognize his glory, honor his glory, declare his glory, praise his glory, reflect his glory, and live for his glory.7 Why? Because God deserves it! We owe him every honor we can possibly give. Since God made all things, he deserves all the glory. The Bible says, “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created everything.
―
Rick Warren
“Ignoring a temptation is far more effective than fighting.”
―
Rick Warren
“Most important, you must learn to love lost people the way God does.”
―
Rick Warren
“Betsy: You gentlemen stand around and look tough while I do an astral reconnaissance.
Fantomex: I confess to feeling inferior in the company of such a gifted telepath. But for you, Warren, to be so.. dependent. It must be emasculating.
Warren: Oh yeah, it's a real hardship. Worst part is all the sex it leads to. Terrible stuff to endure.”
―
Rick Warren
“Use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God.”
―
Rick Warren
