Summary
Highlights
Apostle Selman outlines the progression of a believer's growth, starting from an unbeliever to a born-again individual, then through stages of an infant believer and an ignorant believer, eventually reaching a transformed believer, and finally becoming an empowered witness. He emphasizes that salvation is just the beginning, and continuous growth through the word, prayer, and mentorship is crucial to commanding victory and dominion, rather than remaining in a state of spiritual infancy defined by ignorance and defeat.
Drawing from Isaiah 54:1-3, Selman introduces the concept of "stretch" as a call to move beyond comfort zones and current achievements. He posits that a healthy dissatisfaction with one's current spiritual or earthly position is divinely implanted to propel individuals toward greater heights in all aspects of life, including ministry, finances, and personal wisdom. He encourages listeners to declare, "There is more," and to aspire for continuous growth rather than complacency.
The first key to stretching to new dimensions is a burning desire, an unquenchable hunger for more in God and in life. Selman explains that hunger is a sign of spiritual health, and a lack of it indicates spiritual illness. This desire should encompass deeper experiences with God, enhanced intellectual understanding, and a drive for financial buoyancy not for selfish gain, but to advance God's program without inconvenience.
The second key involves cultivating correct and higher perceptions of life. Selman warns against aberrated perceptions, delusions, and foolish thinking that can lead to failure. He stresses the importance of seeing reality accurately, acknowledging current limitations, and then using God's word to correct and reshape one's worldview. This critical self-assessment is necessary for genuine growth and for aligning one's mindset with divine possibilities.
The third key is high-level spiritual illumination, or knowledge. Selman asserts that every level of dream and vision requires a corresponding level of knowledge. He equates mentality to a car's engine and knowledge to its fuel; a great engine needs fuel to move. He challenges listeners to identify their "knowledge gaps" that hinder progress in ministry, business, or personal life, and to diligently seek out the information needed to bridge these gaps.
The fourth key is wisdom, defined as the ability to profit from truth and knowledge. Selman explains that while knowledge provides availability, wisdom ensures profitability. He highlights that wisdom brings superior returns, far exceeding material wealth, and is foundational for building any successful endeavor. This emphasis underscores that mere possession of knowledge is insufficient; its effective application through wisdom is what truly transforms lives.
Diligence is the fifth key, characterized by the stamina to work out one's calling with fear and trembling, free from inertia and laziness. Selman urges consistent and excellent effort, irrespective of immediate feelings or convenience. He emphasizes overcoming emotional barriers to discipline, reading, praying, and fulfilling responsibilities promptly. He also warns against an appetite for comfort, especially early in one's journey, advocating for a focus on building a greater future.
The sixth key is strategic relationships, which act as a leverage system to propel individuals to higher levels. Selman illustrates how divinely appointed connections can drastically shorten the path to destinies, moving individuals from where they are to where they are meant to be. He stresses the importance of identifying and honoring these relationships, highlighting that God often orchestrates helper relationships to facilitate breakthrough and advancement, sometimes even leveraging the respect others have for these sent men and women.
The final key is the prophetic voice, which acts as a midwife to usher individuals into their next level of destiny. Selman encourages believers not to dismiss the prophetic despite any past abuses, as it reveals, creates, and preserves. He speaks over the congregation, declaring the end of demonic activities, the rise of helpers, the breaking of chains, and the impartation of fresh oil for speed and advancement. He ends with an altar call, inviting new commitment to Christ and providing spiritual guidance for new believers.