Copyright 2009 Church of England (Youth Evangelism); Artist: Sarah Hicks; Used with permissionOn the 20th January 2009, America saw the historic inauguration of the new incoming President, Barack Obama. For many, this represents a daring move, and a time for change. I am exciting write about how the Lord has laid on my heart the word "dare." If you've read my recent book, Dare to Be Great, you may even be making some daring changes in your life right now!

Just before writing this blog, I picked up the magazine Christianity and read about an event in London called "Daring to Do." Inspiration speakers and traveling evangelists from all over were highlighted. All attendees were encouraged to speak about creative ways to reach their generation, including the above commissioned graffiti wall painting that was on display the Daring to Do event. Young people from all dioceses throughout England showcased the ambitious new ways they are doing a mission work.

Daring to do, change, stand for values, live a life for Christ this is what 2009 is about: To be set apart and not of this world. The Bible says in Daniel 11:32 that people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits. Standing, doing, being more like Christ is what we need in this society. We have tragically seen our society fall away from Christian values, beliefs, and principals. Many people have become reliant on the world’s system and less reliant on God’s system. And the world's system has fallen! Banks have collapsed, businesses with disillusioned motives and beliefs have been exposed. People’s traits, character and true nature have been opened. What has been hidden under carpets has now been brought to the table.

I dare you to clean out what’s hidden in your closets. This is a year of new beginnings and change. Now it is the time to make changes within you and in your world. As we are currently witnessing a poignant moment in time both politically and economically, now is the time to capture the spirit of a darer. 
  • I dare you to be set yourself apart from this new generation. Believe for a year of success, a year of more faith, a year of more fruit in your life!
  • I dare you to fast to see the change in you.
  • I dare you to stand for your beliefs in the work place, stand for your rights, and stand for your values.
  • I dare you to change your character, your habits, and your heart to be more like Christ!
  • I dare you to  stretch your faith, to stretch your mind, step out of the box of limitations that this world has given to think beyond the worldly system as it is bound to failure but Gods way is beyond the worldly system.
  • I dare you to make this your year of change! Position your year for greatness. What you sow this year is what you reap not just at the end of the year but for life.

Dare to Do Graphic:
Copyright 2009 by Church of English (Youth Evangelism)
Artist: Sarah Hicks
Used with permission