Jesus Is

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that, as leaders, we often are bombarded with concepts and ideas that sound good but after probing, we discover that the “thing” is not real – not yet manifested. 

This is not so when we discuss Jesus – because Jesus “is”!

Selah

As leaders, we periodically need to stop and review the foundations that guide us when we are searching for answers. 

These are trusted foundations that are powerful, tangible, relevant and ever present for those who believe. 

The Bible teaches us that:

  • Jesus is the way:

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  • Jesus is the Alpha and Omega:

““I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.””

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  • Jesus is faithful:

“It is because of the LORD’S lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, Because His [tender] compassions never fail. [Mal 3:6] They are new every morning; Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness. [Is 33:2]”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful [true to His word and His righteous character], for He cannot deny Himself.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Let us seize and hold tightly the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is reliable and trustworthy and faithful [to His word];”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is a very present help:

“God is our refuge and strength [mighty and impenetrable], A very present and well-proved help in trouble.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is love:

“I and my Father are one.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭30‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The one who does not love has not become acquainted with God [does not and never did know Him], for God is love. [He is the originator of love, and it is an enduring attribute of His nature.]”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is peace:

“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

  • Jesus is a healer:

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

  • Jesus is the great high priest:

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  • Jesus is our advocate:

“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬

  • Jesus is our joint heir:

“And if [we are His] children, [then we are His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His spiritual blessing and inheritance], if indeed we share in His suffering so that we may also share in His glory. [John 17:24; Gal 3:29; 4:7; Eph 1:3, 11; 3:6; Heb 6:12]”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is our friend:

“I do not call you servants any longer, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you [My] friends, because I have revealed to you everything that I have heard from My Father.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is concerned about us:

“casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. [Ps 55:22]”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

  • Jesus is Lord:

“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Selah

In conclusion, it is my prayer this morning that we, the leaders, will find  whatever we are searching for in Jesus – today!

“And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

It is so by faith in Jesus Name. Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen Me, do you now believe? Blessed [happy, spiritually secure, and favored by God] are they who did not see [Me] and yet believed [in Me].” 

There are also many other signs (attesting miracles) that Jesus performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 

but these have been written so that you may believe [with a deep, abiding trust] that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), the Son of God; and that by believing [and trusting in and relying on Him] you may have life in His name. [Ps 2:7, 12]”

‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭29‬-‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.20.29-31.AMP

Vulnerable But Not Exposed

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that there are times, as leaders, when we just feel like we are in a season of the “press”. 

We may feel vulnerable – meaning being open to physical, emotional, or mental harm, attack, or damage because of a lack of protection; yet – we are not exposed. 

In these moments, despite feeling a desire to shrink or to retreat, we should ask ourselves, “What is required of me, now?”

We must press in on that question until we receive a word from the Lord!

Selah

The Bible shows us examples of how the Lord shields and protects His own:

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭91‬:‭1‬, ‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“and it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: and I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭33‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Despite being hidden, we are comforted and are not alone: No, we are never alone!

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear What man shall do unto me.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“O LORD God of hosts, who is like You, O mighty LORD? Your faithfulness surrounds You [as an intrinsic, unchangeable part of Your very being]. You rule the swelling of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them. [Ps 65:7; 107:29; Mark 4:39] 

You have crushed Rahab (Egypt) like one who is slain; You have scattered Your enemies with Your mighty arm. 

The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all that is in it, You have founded and established them. [Gen 1:3]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭89‬:‭8‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

As we wrap up, it is my sincere prayer that we, the leaders, will double down and truly learn to trust the Lord in the power of His might. 

In Him we have all sufficiency in all things!

The Bible walks us through the process:

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Have not I commanded thee? 

Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬, ‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭58‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me. 

So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength].”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2co.12.9-10.AMP

Bitterness

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, as leaders, often need “heart surgery” when we have allowed bitterness to creep in. 

In times of significant change, many emotions can surface which can be counterproductive or detrimental – bitterness is one. 

By definition, bitterness is a “lingering emotional feeling of anger and resentment caused by unfair treatment. It is a negative mental state filled with anger, hostility, and hurt. It happens when a person feels cheated, betrayed, or mistreated by life or others.”

Whatever the cause or reason around how we got “here”, we truly must first recognize that we are “here”, repent and ask God for help to be healed and delivered. 

The Bible tells us and shows us the way forward:

“He healeth the broken in heart, And bindeth up their wounds.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.””

‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭8‬:‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Selah

Yes, it is true that life can be disappointing and disheartening yet we know that we still have hope in Christ.

Whatever the issue or obstacle, we must conclude in our hearts that God does not make mistakes and whom He sends He qualifies.

The Bible says it this way:

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭30‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“O [reverently] fear the LORD, you His saints (believers, holy ones); For to those who fear Him there is no want. The young lions lack [food] and grow hungry, But they who seek the LORD will not lack any good thing.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, it is my sincere prayer that we, the leaders, will find peace, forgiveness, restoration and hope again in Christ. Let us simply take the first step – believe it is possible!

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Overhearing what was being said, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; only keep on believing [in Me and my power].””

‭‭Mark‬ ‭5‬:‭36‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As we ask, trust, obey, and lean on Christ, we shall be healed and restored from bitterness. 

In Jesus Name, Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor [perpetual animosity, resentment, strife, fault-finding] and slander be put away from you, along with every kind of malice [all spitefulness, verbal abuse, malevolence]. 

Be kind and helpful to one another, tender-hearted [compassionate, understanding], forgiving one another [readily and freely], just as God in Christ also forgave you.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/eph.4.31-32.AMP

Ask of Me

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that there is power and provision that comes when we, as sons and daughters, simply make an ask of our father. 

The ask can be for: a spouse, a family, a job, a promotion, a business, health, healing, or a place to call community. 

Our starting with adoration towards Christ is a great first step.

The Bible tells us:

“Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 

Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing. 

Know ye that the LORD he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise: Be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 

For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; And his truth endureth to all generations.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭100‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory of His name; Bring an offering and come into His courts. Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness; Tremble [in submissive wonder] before Him, all the earth.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭96‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

We must understand and believe that our actions have set the atmosphere as what father does not appreciate genuine adoration and appreciation?

The Bible teaches us:

“Just as a father loves his children, So the Lord loves those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen!

When we err, God’s love toward us is illustrated in the example of the prodigal son where the Bible says:

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe [for the guest of honor] and put it on him; and give him a ring for his hand, and sandals for his feet. [Gen 41:42; Zech 3:4] 

And bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let us [invite everyone and] feast and celebrate; 

for this son of mine was [as good as] dead and is alive again; he was lost and has been found.’ So they began to celebrate.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭15‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Our responsibility as His sons and daughters is to  press forward in the power of His grace and set aside every thought that is not rooted in love – earnestly praying to the Lord. 

Scripture shows us how:

“So do not be like them [praying as they do]; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. 

“Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father, who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. [Luke 11:2-4] 

‘Your kingdom come, Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We must be careful not to carry hurts and grieved hearts because of man’s actions. 

Especially during these times, we must be careful to guard our hearts and to lay our hurts at the feet of Jesus. 

The Bible states that:

“The Lord saw that the wickedness (depravity) of man was great on the earth, and that every imagination or intent of the thoughts of his heart were only evil continually.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Yet

““No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And every tongue that rises against you in judgment you will condemn. This [peace, righteousness, security, and triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And this is their vindication from Me,” says the Lord.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭54‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, let us live our daily lives as unto the Lord and ask Him to lead us and to guide us so that our light will continue to shine:

“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“He [is the one who] shall build a house for My Name and My Presence, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 

I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. When he commits iniquity (wrongdoing), I will discipline him with the rod of men and with the strokes of the sons of man. 

But My lovingkindness and mercy will not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 

Your house (royal dynasty) and your kingdom will endure forever before Me; your throne will be established forever.” ’ ””

‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭7‬:‭13‬-‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus name, Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“”I will declare the decree of the Lord: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son; This day [I proclaim] I have begotten You. [2 Sam 7:14; Heb 1:5; 3:5, 6; 2 Pet 1:17, 18] 

‘Ask of Me, and I will assuredly give [You] the nations as Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth as Your possession. 

‘You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall shatter them [in pieces] like earthenware.’ ” [Rev 12:5; 19:15] 

Now therefore, O kings, act wisely; Be instructed and take warning, O leaders (judges, rulers) of the earth. 

Worship the Lord and serve Him with reverence [with awe-inspired fear and submissive wonder]; Rejoice [yet do so] with trembling. 

Kiss (pay respect to) the Son, so that He does not become angry, and you perish in the way, For His wrath may soon be kindled and set aflame. How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] are all those who take refuge in Him!”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭7‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.2.7-12.AMP

Without God’s Guidance

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, as leaders, must be persistent to pursue and strive for a life with Christ where we don’t move without receiving our daily customized guidance. 

The Bible reminds us to:

“Set your mind and keep focused habitually on the things above [the heavenly things], not on things that are on the earth [which have only temporal value]. 

For you died [to this world], and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

In the natural world, there is a term used called bespoke, which means that something is high-end and customized to our specific needs and desires – therefore it is valuable and “precious”. 

In the spiritual realm, we should desire and strive for such an intimacy level with Christ that we receive “precious” guidance, answers and solutions that are tailored for our “right now” need based on who we are and where we are on this faith journey. 

In short, a message that is uniquely and ONLY designed for US!

Selah

There are those who believe that all this bespoke opulence is not necessary; however, we are maturing to acquire the mindset that unless it is custom tailored for me I don’t want it!

We stand on the Bible which says:

“Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith [your trust and confidence in My power and My ability to heal] it will be done to you.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭29‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG!

As joint heirs, we must grow to and be comfortable with this level of living. 

We read and stand on the Word of God which says:

“For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts higher than your thoughts.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“So let no one boast in men [about their wisdom, or of having this or that one as a leader]. For all things are yours,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen!

To be clear, there is a price to be paid, in advance, to qualify for such a high-level of customize living.

The Bible describes it this way:

“O God, You are my God; with deepest longing I will seek You; My soul [my life, my very self] thirsts for You, my flesh longs and sighs for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water. 

So I have gazed upon You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. [Ps 42:1, 2] 

Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You. 

So will I bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name. 

My soul [my life, my very self] is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, And my mouth offers praises [to You] with joyful lips.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭63‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Oh my Lord!

In closing, let us believe that it is possible with Christ to achieve that level of intimacy, where the solutions to our problems are so precise, exact, relevant, and unique. 

Scripture says: 

“There I will meet with you; from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, I will speak [intimately] with you regarding every commandment that I will give you for the Israelites.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭25‬:‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

This is the lifestyle that we strive for, desire, and must continue to pursue daily with humbled hearts to receive. 

The Bible instructs us to: 

“…put to death and deprive of power the evil longings of your earthly body [with its sensual, self-centered instincts] immorality, impurity, sinful passion, evil desire, and greed, which is [a kind of] idolatry [because it replaces your devotion to God].”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As we do theses things, we are well positioned to receive God’s guidance. 

In Jesus Name, Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher. “Vanity of vanities! 

All [that is done without God’s guidance] is vanity [futile, meaningless—a wisp of smoke, a vapor that vanishes, merely chasing the wind].” [Rom 8:20] 

What advantage does man have from all his work Which he does under the sun (while earthbound)? One generation goes and another generation comes, But the earth remains forever. [Ps 119:90]”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.1.2-4.AMP

[Be] Not Slothful in Business

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must be careful and judicious in ensuring that we don’t fall into belief traps that are easily set before us. 

We live in a fallen world where it’s normal to fight to get ahead by taking all from others. 

As believers, we know that we are always being positioned for greater and greater success yet our “actions of faith” can present us with mental battles of perceived shame or embarrassment – because the approach is different. 

The good news is that the Bible reminds us that:

“…God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

As spirit lead leaders, we choose daily to conduct business as sons of God and choose to conduct business Gods way:

“For all who are allowing themselves to be led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes]. [Is 40:13]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Our leveraging Gods principles and pursuing His instructions – including divinely given wisdom, understanding, strategies and knowledge “know how” we thrive in the marketplace. 

The Bible remind us that:

“And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭22‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over [with no space left for more]. For with the standard of measurement you use [when you do good to others], it will be measured to you in return.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““You will also decide and decree a thing, and it will be established for you; And the light [of God’s favor] will shine upon your ways.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭22‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea!’ and does not doubt in his heart [in God’s unlimited power], but believes that what he says is going to take place, it will be done for him [in accordance with God’s will]. [Matt 17:20; Luke 17:6; 1 John 5:14] 

For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Do not be afraid and anxious, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank You Lord!

In conclusion, it is my sincere prayer that we will choose Christ and to conduct our business affairs in a way that is pleasing to Him:

““Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and in truth; remove the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the [Euphrates] River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. 

If it is unacceptable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭24‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine,’ declares the Lord of hosts. 

‘The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘and in this place I shall give [the ultimate] peace and prosperity,’ declares the Lord of hosts.””

‭‭Haggai‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus Name, Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Bkessing!

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 

not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; 

rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/rom.12.10-12.KJV

You Shall Fear [only] the Lord Your God

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, as leaders, must continue to be careful and diligent that our one and true love is given to Christ and Christ alone. 

We know by faith in Gods Word, that our futures are secure and that we have all sufficiency in all things in Christ. 

Yet, the Bible instructs us that to:

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: And the knowledge of the holy is understanding. 

For by me thy days shall be multiplied, And the years of thy life shall be increased.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen 

Our spiritual growth is directly tied to our making and sustaining the decision to seeking God first. The scripture says it this way:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. 

Have this same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus [look to Him as your example in selfless humility],”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Secondly, the more we serve and give generously to those in need, we know that we are sowing seeds of Godly love: 

“As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Let each one give [thoughtfully and with purpose] just as he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver [and delights in the one whose heart is in his gift]. [Prov 22:9] 

Selah

In closing, it is my sincere prayer that we, the leaders, will maintain ears to hear and tender hearts to remain grounded, keeping Jesus first, as we are blessed. That is the beginning of wisdom!

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: And the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. 

But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used. 

For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. 

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬-‭36‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus name, Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Then it shall come about when the Lord your God brings you into the land which He swore (solemnly promised) to [give] your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—to give you, [a land with] great and splendid cities which you did not build, 

and houses full of all good things which you did not fill, and hewn (excavated) cisterns (wells) which you did not dig out, and vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant, and you eat and are full and satisfied, then beware that you do not forget the Lord who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. 

You shall fear [only] the Lord your God; and you shall serve Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect] and swear [oaths] by His name [alone].”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/deu.6.10-13.AMP

I Trust You

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that, as leaders, we must continue to grow along our faith continuum learning to “trust God” more and more with our lives – even unto death. This may not be easy but it is necessary for us to reach our fullest potential in life. 

In contrast, with man, we learn that the words “I trust you” usually has a limit, expiration date or exception clauses that are unspoken. Examples could  be: 

Until you embarrass me.

Until you don’t cost me money, status or reputation. 

Until you don’t cause me to be uncomfortable. 

These conditions don’t leave margin for error and can cause us – the leaders – to feel disappointed, hurt, mistrusted and even dispondemt when we  learn that these limits exist. 

Selah

With God there are no hidden agendas – just truth. He desires for us to grow to the point that we will simply trust Him – unconditionally. 

He is and has always been faithful to perform His Word and extend grace to us. 

Let us do our part to learn of Him and to draw closer. The Bible says:

“Jesus replied, “Have faith in God [constantly].”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed, both springing from faith and leading to faith [disclosed in a way that awakens more faith]. As it is written and forever remains written, “The just and upright shall live by faith.” [Hab 2:4]”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

To be clear, trust is something that is earned,  enhanced or eroded daily based on our words and deeds. 

We must be intentional about nurturing and sustaining this trust journey, realizing in advance that our faith will be tested. 

The Bible encourages us by saying:

“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““Do not let your heart be troubled (afraid, cowardly). Believe [confidently] in God and trust in Him, [have faith, hold on to it, rely on it, keep going and] believe also in Me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Trust [rely on and have confidence] in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and feed [securely] on His faithfulness.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In closing, I pray and plead the blood of Jesus over each of us and our situations that we will find rest and peace in Christ as we learn to trust Him more. 

Let’s us stand firm on this Word:

““Blessed [with spiritual security] is the man who believes and trusts in and relies on the Lord And whose hope and confident expectation is the Lord. 

“For he will be [nourished] like a tree planted by the waters, That spreads out its roots by the river; And will not fear the heat when it comes; But its leaves will be green and moist. 

And it will not be anxious and concerned in a year of drought Nor stop bearing fruit.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Trust [confidently] in the Lord forever [He is your fortress, your shield, your banner], For the Lord God is an everlasting Rock [the Rock of Ages].”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.26.4.AMP

Build Again

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought about how we, the leaders, respond to “right now” challenges and obstacles will determine our success or failure. 

There are many paths and causes that can lead us to this place of pain, discomfort, and confusion – usually it’s because of a consequential loss or a catastrophic event. 

This place where every fiber of our being wants to just quit and give up; however, we have matured enough to know to first seek the Father for comfort and direction. 

When we do, we hear the message in that still small voice – “build again”. 

Oh my Lord!  

How do we do that? 

How do we navigate this gut wrenching moment?

How do we find a spark or an ember in our hearts to muster the will to build again?

Selah

We recognize that we need and are desperate for His healing grace, His anointing, His direction, and His strength.

And the Bible reveals a path forward that is already provided:

“To grant to those who mourn in Zion the following: To give them a turban instead of dust [on their heads, a sign of mourning], The oil of joy instead of mourning, The garment [expressive] of praise instead of a disheartened spirit. So they will be called the trees of righteousness [strong and magnificent, distinguished for integrity, justice, and right standing with God], The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Instead of your [former] shame you will have a double portion; And instead of humiliation your people will shout for joy over their portion. Therefore in their land they will possess double [what they had forfeited]; Everlasting joy will be theirs.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Trust in the LORD, and do good; So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 

Commit thy way unto the LORD; Trust also in him; And he shall bring it to pass. 

And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, And thy judgment as the noonday.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭3‬, ‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Let us reverently remember to sing, praise and worship Christ the King while in our places and during our times of weakness:

“Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 

Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 

Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. 

Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭2‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“…the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Selah

Let us be thankful to God as we have the promise of victory even as we do the work to turn the waste places into the garden of Eden:

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭57‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“especially in Jerusalem. He sent me to give them flowers in place of their sorrow, olive oil in place of tears, and joyous praise in place of broken hearts. They will be called “Trees of Justice,” planted by the Lord to honor his name. 

Your descendants will be known in every nation. All who see them will realize that they have been blessed, by me, the Lord.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬, ‭9‬ ‭CEV‬‬

In closing, let us never forget that Christ is our hope of glory and in Him we have all sufficiency in all things for every good work- including building again!

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 

He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then they will rebuild the ancient ruins, They will raise up and restore the former desolations; And they will renew the ruined cities, The desolations (deserted settlements) of many generations. 

Strangers will stand and feed your flocks, And foreigners will be your farmers and your vinedressers. 

But you shall be called the priests of the Lord; People will speak of you as the ministers of our God. You will eat the wealth of nations, And you will boast of their riches. [Ex 19:6; 1 Pet 2:5; Rev 1:6; 5:10; 20:6] 

Instead of your [former] shame you will have a double portion; And instead of humiliation your people will shout for joy over their portion. 

Therefore in their land they will possess double [what they had forfeited]; Everlasting joy will be theirs. For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery with a burnt offering. And I will faithfully reward them, And make an everlasting covenant with them.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.61.4-8.AMP

Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and Redemption

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://visionmultiplierllc.com/

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how in Christ, we have all sufficiency in all things – if we would just learn to rest and trust in Him!

The Bible shows us how to rest. It says:

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; The humble and downtrodden will hear it and rejoice. O magnify the Lord with me, And let us lift up His name together.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

As leaders, what could cause us to have a posture like this?

Here are a couple of truths that we can meditate on when we lose our way. 

“God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing, so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God [revealing His plan of salvation], and righteousness [making us acceptable to God], and sanctification [making us holy and setting us apart for God], and redemption [providing our ransom from the penalty for sin],”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭30‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness].”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“[Christ] having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of legal demands [which were in force] against us and which were hostile to us. And this certificate He has set aside and completely removed by nailing it to the cross.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For you know that you were not redeemed from your useless [spiritually unproductive] way of life inherited [by tradition] from your forefathers with perishable things like silver and gold, but [you were actually purchased] with precious blood, like that of a [sacrificial] lamb unblemished and spotless, the priceless blood of Christ. [Lev 22:20]”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

With a grateful heart, we can walk in trust that Gods has got us. 

“But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Indeed the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are far more valuable than many sparrows.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Now He who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed for sowing [that is, your resources] and increase the harvest of your righteousness [which shows itself in active goodness, kindness, and love]. [Is 55:10; Hos 10:12] You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous, and this [generosity, administered] through us is producing thanksgiving to God [from those who benefit].”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

All He asks of us is:

“Wherefore Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch not the unclean thing; And I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, And ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him…”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬A KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, let us adore Him and walk in His blessing:

“O come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker [in reverent praise and prayer]. For He is our God And we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice, [Heb 3:7-11] Do not harden your hearts and become spiritually dull as at Meribah [the place of strife], And as at Massah [the place of testing] in the wilderness, [Ex 17:1-7; Num 20:1-13; Deut 6:16]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭95‬:‭6‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: 

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: 

The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. 

And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.”

‭‭Numbers‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing, 

so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are, so that no one may [be able to] boast in the presence of God. 

But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God [revealing His plan of salvation], and righteousness [making us acceptable to God], and sanctification [making us holy and setting us apart for God], and redemption [providing our ransom from the penalty for sin], 

so then, as it is written [in Scripture], “He who boasts and glories, let him boast and glory in the Lord.” [Jer 9:24]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬-‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.1.28-31.AMP