Embracing Ownership: Overcoming Excuses for Success
Summary
Herbert Cooper delivers a powerful message about taking ownership of one's life and the importance of discarding excuses to achieve success. He emphasizes that individuals often hinder their progress by clinging to excuses, which act as self-imposed roadblocks to their success. Cooper draws on biblical teachings to illustrate his points, particularly referencing Philippians 4:13, which states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and Philippians 2:12, which urges believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling."
Cooper begins by addressing the common refrain of "I can't" that many people use to explain why they haven't achieved their goals or made progress in their lives. He suggests that this defeatist attitude needs to be eliminated, symbolically suggesting that these "I can't" statements be placed in a shoebox and burned or buried, signifying the end of making excuses.
He then moves on to discuss the concept of ownership, drawing from Matthew 11:12, which speaks of the Kingdom of Heaven suffering violence and the violent taking it by force. Cooper interprets this as a call to action, urging individuals to take control of their lives with determination and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
Cooper also addresses the theological aspect of salvation, clarifying that while salvation is a gift from Christ and cannot be earned, believers are called to actively work out their salvation. This means living out the implications of their faith in every aspect of their lives, including family, career, education, finances, health, and relationships.
Throughout his message, Cooper identifies three common excuses that prevent people from taking ownership of their lives: complaining, arguing, and blaming. He explains that these behaviors create a negative cycle that leads to failure and stagnation. Instead, he encourages his listeners to adopt a proactive stance, taking responsibility for their circumstances and making the necessary changes to move forward.
Cooper shares a story of a teacher in the Bronx who challenged her students to overcome their "I can't" mentality. By having them write down their limitations and then physically destroying them, she helped her students to focus on what they could achieve. This act of ownership led to remarkable success for the students.
Finally, Cooper touches on the biblical account of Adam and Eve, highlighting that excuses have been a part of human behavior since the fall. He points out that excuses are often a way of shifting blame and avoiding responsibility, which ultimately leads to a lack of control over one's life.
In conclusion, Cooper calls on his audience to reject excuses, take ownership of their lives, and embrace the strength that comes from Christ. He invites those who have not yet accepted Christ or who wish to rededicate their lives to Him to do so, emphasizing that it is never too late to make a change and own one's life.
Key Takeaways:
- Excuses are a significant barrier to personal growth and success. They serve as a self-imposed roadblock that prevents individuals from taking responsibility for their lives and moving forward. It's essential to recognize and eliminate excuses to achieve the life that God intends for us. [06:06]
- True ownership of one's life is a biblical principle that requires active participation. While salvation is a gift that cannot be earned, living out that salvation in every aspect of life is a responsibility that falls on each individual. This means making conscious decisions to improve and grow in all areas, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. [11:54]
- Complaining, arguing, and blaming are three common excuses that hinder progress. These behaviors not only create a negative environment but also prevent individuals from seeing opportunities for change. By eliminating these habits, one can begin to take constructive steps towards a more fulfilling life. [14:36]
- The power of belief and positive affirmation can have a transformative effect on a person's life. The story of the Bronx teacher illustrates how changing one's mindset from "I can't" to "I can" can lead to remarkable achievements. This shift in perspective is crucial for overcoming obstacles and reaching one's full potential. [25:09]
- Taking ownership of one's life is an empowering act that aligns with God's will. It involves acknowledging past mistakes, learning from them, and making the conscious choice to live differently moving forward. This process is integral to living a life that honors God and fulfills His purpose for us. [22:55]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
2. Philippians 2:12 - "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling."
3. Matthew 11:12 - "From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of Heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Philippians 4:13 suggest about the source of our strength and ability to achieve our goals?
2. According to Philippians 2:12, what are believers instructed to do with their salvation?
3. How does Matthew 11:12 describe the approach one should take towards the Kingdom of Heaven?
4. In the sermon, what are the three common excuses Herbert Cooper identifies that prevent people from taking ownership of their lives? ([13:58])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the phrase "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" challenge the common excuse of "I can't"? ([10:35])
2. What does it mean to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling," and how does this apply to different areas of life such as family, career, and health? ([11:13])
3. How does the concept of taking the Kingdom of Heaven by force (Matthew 11:12) relate to taking ownership of one's life and decisions? ([09:52])
4. Why does Cooper emphasize the need to eliminate complaining, arguing, and blaming from our lives? How do these behaviors act as self-imposed roadblocks? ([14:36])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you used the excuse "I can't." How can you reframe this mindset using Philippians 4:13? ([10:35])
2. Identify an area in your life where you need to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling." What specific steps can you take this week to start owning this area? ([11:13])
3. Think about a time when you found yourself complaining about a situation. How did this affect your ability to take constructive action? What can you do differently next time? ([15:17])
4. Have you ever been in a cycle of arguing with others about your circumstances? How can you shift from arguing to taking proactive steps to improve your situation? ([18:00])
5. Consider a situation where you have blamed others for your lack of progress. How can you take responsibility and start making changes to move forward? ([20:55])
6. The story of the Bronx teacher who had her students write down their "I can't" statements and then destroy them is a powerful illustration. What "I can't" statements do you need to let go of, and what "I can" statements will you replace them with? ([23:41])
7. How can you apply the principle of taking the Kingdom of Heaven by force in your daily life? What specific actions will you take to own your decisions and live out your faith more fully? ([09:52])
Devotional
Day 1: Overcoming the Excuse Barrier
Excuses are often the most significant hindrance to personal growth and success. They are the self-imposed roadblocks that keep individuals from reaching their full potential. Recognizing and eliminating these excuses is crucial to living the life God intends. [06:06]
Proverbs 22:13 - "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside!' or, 'I will be murdered in the streets!'"
Reflection: What excuses have you been using to avoid taking a step of faith or action in your life?
Day 2: Active Participation in Faith
Salvation is a divine gift, yet it requires a proactive approach to live out its implications in every aspect of life. This active participation is a testament to one's faith and a commitment to personal growth and improvement. [11:54]
James 2:17 - "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
Reflection: How can you more actively 'work out' your faith in practical ways in your daily life?
Day 3: Breaking the Cycle of Negativity
Complaining, arguing, and blaming are toxic habits that trap individuals in a cycle of negativity and hinder progress. Recognizing and breaking free from these patterns is essential for personal and spiritual growth. [14:36]
Ephesians 4:29 - "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Reflection: Identify a recent situation where you complained, argued, or blamed. How could you have approached it differently?
Day 4: The Power of Positive Affirmation
Believing in oneself and affirming one's abilities can lead to transformative life changes. The shift from "I can't" to "I can" is a powerful mindset change that opens the door to new possibilities and achievements. [25:09]
Romans 12:2 - "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need to replace "I can't" with "I can"?
Day 5: Embracing Ownership with God's Strength
Taking ownership of one's life is an empowering act that aligns with God's will. It involves acknowledging past mistakes, learning from them, and choosing to live differently. This process honors God and fulfills His purpose for us. [22:55]
Galatians 6:4-5 - "Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load."
Reflection: What is one step you can take today to take greater ownership of your life in a way that honors God?
Quotes
1) "Excuses are nothing more than a self-imposed roadblock and some of you are Your Own Worst Enemy; you keep blocking your success with excuses." [06:06]
2) "Complaining is a self-imposed roadblock; it stops you from owning where you are, it stops you from changing in your life and your circumstances." [15:17]
3) "You are not a victim of your circumstances; you're a child of God with the power to change them. Stop complaining and start changing the promises of God." [16:37]
4) "Arguing is a self-imposed roadblock; it blinds you from seeing the reality of where you are, it causes you to push relationships and opportunities out of your life." [18:40]
5) "Blaming is one of the most destructive habits that will keep you from owning your life; it's a self-imposed roadblock that will keep you from working out your salvation with fear and trembling." [21:38]
6) "You have to stop putting your future in someone else's hand and today you have to start owning where you are so you can change where you are." [22:55]
7) "It was the moment that I burned my excuses and decided to own it that made all the difference in the world." [25:09]
8) "Taking ownership of your life, taking ownership of your decisions is a Biblical principle; it's easily overlooked and very under practiced but it's a very important biblical principle." [09:52]
9) "Success and excuses don't live together in the same house. If you want to live a life of success, excuses have to leave the house." [02:30]
10) "You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength. You can work out your salvation with fear and trembling." [26:08]
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