[guestpost]The 4 Steps to an OUTRAGEOUS Life is a guest post by Dwayne Morris, a blogger, author, and speaker who lives in South Carolina. Dwayne serves young leaders who have a passion to live a life that matters. Connect with him through his blog, on Facebook, or on Twitter.[/guestpost]
Tired of being ordinary?
Following the same cycle day after day? Ever wonder if you’ve just wasted 24 hours?
The lyrics of a popular song include:
There’s more to this life living than dying
More than just trying to make it through the day
More to this life, more than these eyes alone can see
And there’s more than this life alone can be
There is far more to life than any challenge, pain, or hurt you may experiencing at this moment. I refuse accept the notion that an infinite God created anything or anyone to be ordinary.
So how does the life of an ordinary person go from ordinary to OUTRAGEOUS! Here are 4 steps to the outrageous life:
1. God is there
To experience OUTRAGEOUS, we must begin with the understanding that God is always there. Always!
The challenge for us is to make sure we’re aligned with God. Once we are, He can begin to add more to our lives.
2. Your Contribution Matters
When it comes to doing the OUTRAGEOUS, God created you with a plan and for a purpose. Then He gave you specific skills to accomplish that plan.
Yet many talk themselves right back into mediocrity before they ever get moving toward the courageous life.
No matter how small it seems, your contribution to the OUTRAGEOUS life matters – a lot!
3. Obstacles are Opportunities
Let me state the obvious –
Obstacles only become obstacles when we allow them to stop us in our tracks. Yet most of the time they’re opportunities to grow.
4. Don’t Limit God’s Possibilities
Plans are important, but they can sometimes limit what we’re able to accomplish in life.
When we follow the outrageous path, we discover that we are capable of more than we ever imagined.
The journey ordinary to OUTRAGEOUS is exciting – it will refresh your life and renew your passion.
Free Book
The Outrageous Life releases today on Amazon in several formats! Order your copy today!
And I’m giving away 20 FREE copies of the book. Here’s how you can get a copy for yourself or for a friend:
- Leave a comment answering the question below. Include your email address in your comment – I’ll remove it once the giveaway is finished.
- Then, Tweet a link to this post, or share it on Facebook. Use the hashtag #theoutrageouslife.
I’ll email the winners a link to download a free copy of the book.
[Update – It looks like we have 20 who qualify. Thanks for participating!]
Question: What do you love to do that you can leverage for the benefit of others? Leave your thoughts in the comments.
Michael, I know you won’t believe this, but this article unpacks my mission statement, which states – “Helping ordinary people live their extraordinary life.” This Outrageous life you discussed is a great outline I plan to use in my discussions with others seeking the extraordinary in their ordinary lives. Thanks so much.
Thanks Paul. I agree – Dwayne has written some great content about the living an outrageous life.
I’m a nurse with a passion for educating patients and a heart for ministering to them when they need it most. I’m also outrageously passionate about getting the Word of God in the hearts of young people (6-18) through the Bible Quizzing Ministry at our church. Keeps me young and outrageous. Love the post, would love to read more. Will retweet.
Quizcoach@icloud.com
Jammie Mayo
Awesome – thanks Jammie!
I love talking to others in an effort to motivate them to be their abliveolute best! I love learning new things, journaling and reading. I feel these actions could help
Others live purposeful lives. Proverbs 15:22
Great thoughts! Thanks for stopping by.
I am a Massage Therapist. I have been serving people on a financial sliding scale for the past 9 years, God has paid the bills. My silent hearts deepest longings has been to help mothers have the birth that they desire. I know something about giving birth I have had 6. Very recently God has unexpectedly opened doors so that I could become a Doula I am really excited to see how I get to use this for His glory and who I get to serv.
Heather Withrow Searles
aarrunya@hotmail.com
That’s great Heather – thanks for sharing part of your story!
Can I propose another opportunity? Missionaries love massages. We host a Mission Conference each year with about 60 missionairies from all around the globe. The highlight of thier visit with us is when we pamper them with manicures, pedicures and, you guessed it, massages. Can you find a way to connect your skill to people who are on the front lines of ministry? Worth the consideration. Thanks for chiming in!
Cool idea!
Heather, Dwayne is a friend of mine. It would be cool for you two to connect if his idea interests you.
I love to teach the Word of God and I love working with you I also love musicthis is why I am the founder of design records ministries which is a Christian Youth Development ministry and its foundational stages and I use music and teachings from the Word of God to edify and equip young believers
That’s great!
I’m a senior student through Liberty University of Va. My major is Religion and minor in Christian counseling. I found your site through Linked In group. I would love to read your ebook, The Outrageous Life! It looks like a very motivating book. I love to help people grow as individuals. I think love, compassion, and empathy are very important, when dealing with people. I am interested in writing in many genres, but most of all Christian evangelization, which I plan to pursue very soon. I am also an independent author through CreateSpace/Amazon.
Thanks Bonita – I saw your connection on LinkedIn. Dwayne has written a great book – I know it will encourage you in your work.
Thanks for sharing Dwayne’s new book and your e-book, Michael, wih the members of Matt Appling’s Book Launch Team. I can’t wait to read both books and share them with everyone I know. They are a much-needed word for today, and are a huge asset to the Christian community – particular for creatives, artists and ministers in the market place. I am so glad you contacted me!!! I am really looking forward to following your blog.
Matt is doing a great job and has written a good book. I’m glad you connected with him.
I am a Christian who is a visionary, an encourager, an artist
and a writer with a passion for God, Beauty and People, Since first grade, I
have been passionate about art and as I have grown older, passionate about
helping others – especially children – discover the artist in themselves. I
believe creativity is an inherent gift, evident in every arena of life from the
visual arts & crafts, to media & entertainment, performance arts,
literary arts, fabric arts, homemaking, cooking, gardening, government, ministry,
leisure, business and the rest.
Throughout the years God has been preparing me and my
business/ministry partner, Victoria Ekelund, (also a writer/artist and
elementary school teacher) for such a time as this. We have been through extensive training and
background in Bible study, ministry, education, business and the arts. Victoria
and I have been called by God to be His “scoundrels and rascals who will turn
this world upside-down for Him.” We have been called, in particular, to be his
encouragers and provocateurs: “stirring up the gifts appointed by the Holy
Spirit,” and “provoking His people to good works,” not only in the church, but
in the community, schools and the market place.
Together, we are reaching the “poorest of the poor,” in a
rural community through creative arts and academics. Our motto is, “Success
needs a helping hand,” and we work hard to help the local children succeed –
not only in school, but in life, ministry and business. Victoria tutors reading and math combined
with art exercises to help children overcome limitations in areas such as ADD,
ADHD, Autism, dyslexia, etc. She also
teaches literacy and ESL to adults, volunteers as a mentor for schoolchildren
through “Community in School,” and works as a Teacher’s Assistant at one of our
local public elementary schools.
In 2008 we opened a creative arts & academics center,
The Friendship Circle, to provide these services. When the economy forced us to
downsize in 2010, Victoria and I began doing most of this work out of our house.
She and I are now mentoring young women in our role as spiritual
sisters/mothers, helping these girls find their “way” through the chaos,
demands and distractions of this world.
We also host a devotional/ creative expressive arts meeting on Thursdays
for women of all ages. Dwayne Morris’ book, “The Outrageous Life,” would be a
great benefit and asset to our group!!!!
Thanks, Michael, for referring Matt Applings’ Book Launch Team to Dwayne’s
new book. I am also looking forwarding
to reading your e-book, “Creating Your Business Vision,” Michael! Thank you for also providing this resource to
the Christian community
In closing, let me reaffirm that Victoria and I don’t want
to be ordinary. We never did, never have
been, never will be. WE DO want to be OUTRAGEOUS!!! And help others find the courage to do the
same. If there’s anything I can do to
support your vision in any way I’m able, please let me know. It would be a joy and a privilege to serve
you.
Ruth Bennett
ruth.rct@gmail.com
Thank you Ruth. I loved reading about your passion.
Legacy living is so powerful. It is why we are hear…it is the gift of finishing well. Thank you for showing us it is good to be OUTRAGEOUS. Be BLESSED!
I agree, Emery. Dwayne is encouraging many!
I love sharing Christian books and positive thoughts by E-Mail to my friends with
photos of nature, God’s creation. dijozip777@aol.com
Same here…I’m working on a practical way I can share my highlights with others too. Thanks for sharing!
I LOVE to share the love of God with others for His love is truly what heals our hearts! And I love to drink GREEN juice! 🙂 sheila@LongingsEnd.com THANKS for a great post!
Surely there’s a way to use the GREEN juice into a spiritual conversation…maybe that’s how God sees our heart when we’re separated from Him. Good stuff!
Well…since GREEN juice is so YUMMY good for us, methinks that’s how God might see us IN Him. 🙂 White flour and white sugar…now that’s def when we are FAR from Him. LOL Wishing you HAPPY HEALTHY EATING!
Nice! I was in Dallas airport today where I overheard 2 pilots talking about their faith. Very cool.
I love working with people to help them look inside themselves, discover their true potential and realize it, thus enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives. My email id is piyush.dixit.in@gmail.com
It’s great that you desire to help others. We can’t make it through life alone…nor were we created to. Keep it up!
I love to teach my kids and those who have not been brought up under the same religious beliefs that I have that there is a God who CAN and WILL take care of us, love us unconditionally and provide for us, all we have to do it believe in him. alhood36@yahoo.com
Teaching our children is our #1 call as parents. I call these parents “D6 Parents” from Deuteronomy 6 where parents are challenged to teach their children God’s word. Great perspective!
So true – Thanks for connecting.
I love to work on computers and can help people with their problems and leverage that gift to help them get the most from their machine.
Jwest81 at gmail.com
EXCELLENT! So the question then is, how can you do this for God’s glory? Are there means for you to help others so that you can encourage and empower others with their computer? Thanks for chiming in!
What do I love?
To teach, to write, and to cook….
Makes me think of Tim Ferriss’ new book, “The 4-hour Chef”…
Nice Doug – I love to teach, write and eat. 😉
I love to write, nothing more nothing less….
bembry1@gmail.com
So are you sharing your content or keeping it all to yourself? There’s a “tribe” out there that will connect with what you have to share. In fact, if you share it, they will find it.
4-Hopeofmassachusetts.org !!!
Helping others to start looking forward to Monday! tom@mondayisgood.com
And you do a great job, Tom. I look forward to Mondays!
Thanks, Michael.
Scripture says that ‘God gives us power to become wealthy so that we can spread His covenant abroad.’ My passion is to share the ‘Good News’ which I do a little, as member of the Prison Fellowship, but would like to do more. I’m interested in health and well being and would like to become successful online as a distributor of health products as well as writing posts on spiritual health and other topics. I am working on a blog at the moment but I am finding time is a big issue.
mysia.wisz@yahoo.com
I feel your pain! As I began working on my book, I found myself falling asleep at the keyboard. I decided a better strategy would be to go to bed earlier and get up earlier. Most of the book was written between 4:30am and 6:00am. Need to find what works and possibly narrow your focus a little.
Like Dwayne – I found that I had to go to bed earlier and get up earlier to work on it. I also planned out a calendar of posts several weeks/months in advance to help keep me on track.
I love to spend times in the outdoors hunting, fishing and camping. This is something I have thought of using to help people that don’t get chance to enjoy these for various reasons a chance. Mnwild14@yahoo.com. Thanks!
Did you know there are mission trips for fishermen? I have a group of friends who went oversees to teach locals how to fish better. It was a relationship building / prayer walking event. I am convinced you can use any thing for the Glory of God. Thanks for sharing!
I would love to share the warmth of the quilts that I enjoy making
Here’s a suggestion…a group of ladies in our church meet weekly to make patchwork quilts. After they finish a batch, they they pray over each one and then deliver them to local shelter or they have sent them to Nicaragua with an organization called Chosen Children Ministries. Each small quilt has “Jesus Loves Me” written on it. The bottom line is that you can find an avenue to do exactly what you shared.
We have a similar group at our church – great idea.
I have a history of foolish choices and terrible consequences. God has intervened in my life now, so I am actually benefiting from a miserable past – not just for myself but for those I am privileged to share my story with.
I can relate, Gary. Someone said to me once, My mess is my message.
Thanks, David. You are an encouragement to me!
You’re an encourager! We always remember the people who believe in us and add value to our lives. We speak out of the overflow of our hearts…Keep it up!
I love to help others. I do this through a group that my wife and I lead called H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Everywhere), and I’m looking forward to heading to Guatemala again this summer to help people in the small village of Xenacoj.
That is AWESOME! I love the initiative rather than waiting to be picked! You’re just doing what you can with what you have where you are! Keep it up!
Great idea – I’d love to hear more about H.O.P.E.
You can learn a little more about the group here ( http://www.jonstolpe.com/2011/09/28/h-o-p-e-helping-other-people-everywhere/ ) and at our Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/HOPEontheway ). I’d also me more than happy to connect with you more if you want more details.
Jesus is Good, The only way to salvation and the only means of living a good life now.
Ourlordsgarden@rambler.ru
Amen! That’s why the book is how God used Gideon to do some OUTRAGEOUS things both in and through his life.
Check out. I like to encourage people to feel beautiful, smart, and inspire them to live their God-given purpose. I am a kids shoe fitter and tell the girls they’re beautiful and smart and boys that they’re strong and smart. Use my words to plant positive seeds that will be life changing and make a difference in the lives of people. Show Gods love. Be His light.
Susie.Offenbacker@yahoo.com
Love it! I have one daughter who is quite a distance runner, another who is a very talented artist, and a son who is a mixture of both (all bias aside…). People will ask, “How did they get so fast?” or “Where did they get her creativity?” and I always reply, we never told them they were slow or they couldn’t draw. Keep it up! Kids need to hear that more.
Love how you encourage the children – thanks for connecting.
I love talking about the Bible.
Lyndie Blevins
Lyndieb@sbcglobal.net
Can’t go wrong there. Have you ever heard of the SOAP Bible Study method? I have used it for the last 2+ years. It revolutionized how I read the Bible. Here’s a link to a video I produced with some friends: http://vimeo.com/56778964
A great discipline – we conducted a survey recently in our city of people who do not attend our church – 61% said that there is a high need to help people learn to share their faith.
I have been creating art,signs, and crafts that send out a positive message with uplifting and encouraging words from Bible verses and quotes. Hopefully I can make a difference in somebody’s life! I would love to read the book The Outrageous Life!! nshankins@aol.com
This is a great way to use what you have for God’s glory! Have you ever sought out a mission team and helped them create items they can carry as gifts for children? Keep it up!
This is great, Angeline. You should connect with Matt Appling – his new book, Life After Art releases on April 1. Here is the book trailer – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZ_005eJXSI.
Networking. I love connecting people.
That’s great – great leaders serve others!
I love to read, write, and recommend books to others.
I do too, Matt.
I really love finding what others are passionate about / skilled to do then allowing them to do it! When I see others finding their purpose that brings me great satisfaction!
Yes – I find that fulfilling also.
Michael, I have downloaded your E-book on Creating Your Business Vision and have been reading it. Great information! I would like to receive the free book The Outrageous Life. My email is: labinjc@gmail.com. My wife and I do outreach ministry sharing the word of God with those we meet, especially young people. Thank you for your commitment to God. Raymond Glass
Thanks Raymond! Let me know how I can serve you further.
I am creating inspirational colorful arts, crafts, sewing, quilting, jewelry, accessories, decor and gifts. I post inspiring messages, quotes, poems, songs and musings from other writers throughout history and my own. I share inspiring music videos on Youtube. I inspire people to seek God and to be creative, intuitive, resourceful and inventive with all of the talents, gifts and blessings God has bestowed upon and inside each of His beloved human beings, created in His image! <3 ;-}
I’m encouraged just reading about what you do! Keep up the good work!
I love helping people find a job that they really love.
That’s very important, Scott – many people have never know what it’s like to have a job they love!
I’d like to start a Southern Gospel radio station and make a difference in people’s lives.
I love me some Southern Gospel music! I would encourage you to think of all possible avenues you can share your love for Southern Gospel with others. I know a radio station may seem logical, but that may require more resources than you have. What are some other ways you can get it “out there?” One of the chapters in the book is called, “My Contribution is Critical.” The intent is to imply that doing the OUTRAGEOUS means we have to do what we can with what we have. Dont’ let what you can’t do stop you from doing what you can.
Great thoughts Dwayne – I agree!
I love to share encouragement with others since someone is always in need of that. That comes in many forms, commenting on a blog, reposting or sharing a blog or a song are some examples. You really never know when that word of encouragement or song will speak to someone that needs it at that particular moment. And…since you brought it up, I love the SCC reference. Here is a link to listen if anyone is interested http://youtu.be/Ndbma-BQJK8. I am working on being Outrageous by Rising Early every day thanks to Early to Rise by Andy Traub and would love to learn how to live a more Outrageous Life. super_genius@roadrunner.com
Thanks for posting the link to the SCC song. Rising early has proven to be the key component to me getting my book “out the door.” Jon Acuff has a post on this topic: http://www.jonacuff.com/blog/the-secret-to-be-selfish/ Andy Traub is a GREAT resource for effective work as well. I used his model of organizing my email. Keep it up…seems like you’re on the right track.
Very cool, Stan – Andy has written a great book.
I’m an artist! All though it is my job, I love to use it for the benefit of others when needed. I’ll be going to the Dominican Republic in a few weeks. There I’ll paint a couple of murals on the outside of schools as well as work with young mothers in the villages. I can’t wait!
marcia.furman@gmail.com
This is AWESOME!!! My oldest daughter is a gifted artist (I know parents can be biased, but she’s the real deal.) I am constantly looking for avenues for her to leverage her gift of drawing and painting for God’s glory. Thanks for sharing! I am looking forward to telling her your story. May the Lord give you OUTRAGEOUS opportunities to glorify His name.
Wow – I’m not nearly that creative. 😉
I Love to sing and minister the love and message of Jesus Christ to others. I love to share God’s abundant never ending grace to others through song. I believe music is a powerful tool that all people can in some way relate to. I believe that in the ministry of music people will listen to a singer share the gospel.
Using the gifts and abilities God has given us allos us to serve in a “sweet spot” of ministry. When we are in line with Him and his power, it’s almost effortless. That’s a great word!
I love to use my gift of communication to counsel and guide women, both young & old in helping them to see themselves as worthy, valuable, and precious in this life! I love helping others find their voice so to speak. Once they find theirs, they are motivated to helping others find theirs too. It’s really a beautiful thing when that happens!!! I am excited about the opportunity to reading this book! Living the BEST life I can live now for fulfilling God’s calling and purpose for my life is so incredible!!!
That’s what it’s all about…adding value to others by using the life the Lord allows us to live for Him. I call people like you “Dream Boosters.” (As opposed to Dream Busters…) Keep it up!!!
Love this – my wife is a professional counselor. She is one of the most supportive and caring people I know.
Take a teenager to the driving range, give some pointers on how to swing a golf club & tell him about Jesus
Excellent! You can tell him that none of us will make “par” with the Lord…I love your intentional approach to using something you love for the glory of God. Way to go!
Now that’s a job I would really appreciate! 😉
Any day that I have an opportunity to speak life and truth into the lvies of others is an OUTRAGEOUS day for me! Haivngan opportuinty to discover, mentor and equip women to be, do and have all that God created them for is a privilege I don’t take lightly! Being a catalyst in the transforming process of thier lives – watching them step into their greatness for His glory – priceless!
Sounds like you’re on your way…the book will be a great tool for you to share with other ladies.
Love your passion, Kat!
I’m a shy guy but when given an opportunity to speak I do it very well without the shyness. I like to talk to people, motivating them to get up on their feet and do what they know should be done. evansib@live.com
I think it’s great that you don’t allow your shyness to hinder you from using your life to add value to others. Keep it up!
I love coaching people as a pastor and success coach. So every week I volunteer a few hours of my time to coaching young people in schools, colleges and universities. I love to help people to self actualise.
That’s a GREAT idea! Pouring your life into a younger generation is actually the means to living forever. We pass down our influence and see it carried on and on and on…
Love this idea!
What I like to do that I can leverage for the benefit of others?
SHINE AND LIVE. Shine and live my life completely with the greatest tapping into my own potential and also helping the others do the same as to where it is about Am I living to my potential, and can me living to my potential be a shining example for other to get inspired and live to their full potential.
And yes, all my professional skills are a privilige which I have where I will be able to serve them in a better manner.
Sounds like your on your way to the OUTRAGEOUS life! That’s what it’s all about: leveraging our life and our abilities to honor the One who gave them to us. Thanks for sharing!
I can’t wait to read this book. It is a message that we all need to hear. God created each and every one of us for a specific purpose, we need to discover that purpose and let God to work through us to make a difference in the world. steve.spring@comcast.net
Amen, Steve! My goal is to challenge people to realize they were created to do OUTRAGEOUS things for the glory of God and experience Him in a whole new way! Thanks for the comment!
Yes He did – Thanks Steve!
I love to help others plumb the depths of Scripture and learn how vital it is for knowing God and understanding our lives and our purpose. It has revolutionized my life and continues to do so. I don’t want others to miss out!
I think that’s one of our greatest joys…leveraging our lives to help others know and experience all that God has in store and to elevate His name. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Mark – I agree!
I’m a “notes” kinda guy. I really enjoy writing notes of appreciation and affirmation. I use this gift often to encourage and uplift others.
Thanks for making this book available to us!
jasonNramsey@gmail.com
Jason, the blessing is mine. I love to see others use their gifts and personalities to add value to others. The great thing about notes is that they can last forever. I have a folder with the label, “Doing Something Right.” I keep all of my encouraging notes there and pull them out occasionally and read them again to be reminded of how the Lord is using my life for His glory.
Great thought – this is a much needed discipline.