Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Beauty for Ashes

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, serve a true and living God who cares about us and is with us at ALL times.

The Bible days it this way:

“…I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭20‬A AMP‬‬

In Isaiah, it was prophesied about the coming of Immanuel – which in Hebrew means “God with us”:

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭7‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In this life, we shall have many troubles but the solution is still the same – Jesus! The Bible states:

““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.””

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

We also know that the Lord is our shepherd and is faithful to watch over us and to protect us:

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭91‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, Because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness.”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

We must be encouraged that regardless of how dark our situation may look – even when everything appears to be turned to ashes – we are reminded that we serve a risen savior that specializes in turning situations around for our good!

The Bible says He always causes us to triumph and He knows our name:

“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 ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion: let us walk in the daily mercies of Christ and rest in the knowledge and understanding that God is turning our ashes into something beautiful!

“But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; Therefore will I hope in him.

The LORD is good unto them that wait for him,

To the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly Wait for the salvation of the LORD.”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭24‬-‭26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

To god be the glory!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.61.1-3.KJV

I Have Many Things to Say to You

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and my mind kept processing and wondering why Jesus felt that His disciples were not ready or able to bear the gravity of the news that was forthcoming. Was the hesitation out of love or the realization that it would be overwhelming for them in the natural.

He knew that He was going to be crucified and they were going to need the Holy Spirit to just make it through the transition which was imminent.

We see throughout the current and the previous chapter how Jesus was trying to prepare His disciples for the significant change that was coming.

We see several scriptures in the Bible where Jesus is instructing them:

““If the world hates you [and it does], know that it has hated Me before it hated you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Remember [and continue to remember] that I told you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““I have told you these things so that you will not stumble or be caught off guard and fall away.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I have told you these things [now], so that when their time comes, you will remember that I told you about them. I did not say these things to you at the beginning, because I was with you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““But now I am going to Him who sent Me; and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts [and taken complete possession of them].”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Jesus knew that WORDS WERE NOT ENOUGH – they needed more!

So He left His Holy Spirit to minister and comfort them each on an individual, intimate and personal level as they grieved and tried to pick up the mantle of leadership.

That is so powerful!

Selah

There is always a great loss that fills our hearts, minds and souls when someone who is instrumental to our development (our thoughts, our values and our beliefs) leaves us.

Shared moments with them made an impact and contributed to our growth – while their presence edified and assured us.

Then, the transition happens- whether death, promotions, relocation or just distance – life.

We then grapple with the loss of our loved one or mentor or manager; yet, we find ourselves reflecting on many past conversational nuggets.

Reality eventually settles in that we must move forward on our own accord as we accept the mantle of leadership and walk in the authority, weight and responsibility of “the leader”.

Lastly, our pain is buffeted by our knowing that Christ has positioned us to never be alone!

The Bible say:

“But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. [Matt 5:7, 13, 24, 25; Luke 24:49; John 14:16; Acts 1:4]”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭26‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, let us not allow our hearts be troubled when trouble comes. Let us, as leaders, make room for the Holy Spirit to be our guide and comforter to restore our joy:

“If you keep My commandments and obey My teaching, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you these things so that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy may be made full and complete and overflowing.andandand”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““This is My commandment, that you love and unselfishly seek the best for one another, just as I have loved you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear [to hear] them now. But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He will speak whatever He hears [from the Father—the message regarding the Son], and He will disclose to you what is to come [in the future].

He will glorify and honor Me, because He (the Holy Spirit) will take from what is Mine and will disclose it to you.

All things that the Father has are Mine. Because of this I said that He [the Spirit] will take from what is Mine and will reveal it to you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.16.12-15.AMP

Beauty of Your Fragrance

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, demonstrate our commitment and love for Christ by exuding a fragrance of love and adoration so much so that it should soak our atmosphere such that it attracts others to Christ.

Others should sense and see that something is different in us – such that it is an attraction of hope, joy and peace.

In the Bible, we see the story of Mary who outwardly demonstrated her love and adoration towards Jesus by pouring oil on His feet and wiping His feet with her hair – so caring and tender as a means of honoring Jesus.

As can be expected, there were others who observed this event but did not nor could not understand the sacrifice seed that Mary was sowing. They misread the moment and underestimated the value of the relationship that Mary had with Jesus!

The Bible says:

“But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, the one who was going to betray Him, said, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and [the money] given to the poor?””

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

For many of us, as leaders, others may observe our actions – our seeds of love and adoration – and may not truly understand our road traveled nor understand the cost of our worship.

Selah

Then, others may see the sweet fragrance of the Holy Spirit working in our lives as the story of Mary calls out and the Bible says:

“…the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Having used her hair to wipe off the feet of Jesus, we can just imaging how the fragrance of the oil in her hair just filled that room and every room in the house throughout the day – therefore soaking the atmosphere well beyond the moment.

We can just imagine that as the scent filled the atmosphere, everyone with whom she encountered that day must have inquired about her beautiful fragrance – providing Mary the opportunity to share and testify of the goodness of Jesus.

In conclusion, it is my prayer that we will let our lights shine bright today as we carry the sweet smell of the Holy Spirit with us.

The Bible says it this way:

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

When we do this we will be a blessing to others.

Amen

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us spreads and makes evident everywhere the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him.

For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which ascends] to God, [discernible both] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him, Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?

This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.”

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.12.3-7.KJV

He Let Them Find Him

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that though God is omniscient and omni present, our finding Him is not an automatic event and therefore – is a precious event!

As leaders, we must be careful not to become callous or distracted and forget our covenant privilege, connection and access that has been granted by our Lord and King.

The Bible says:

“and he went out to meet Asa and said to him, “Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin: the Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him [inquiring for and of Him, as your soul’s first necessity], He will let you find Him; but if you abandon (turn away from) Him, He will abandon (turn away from) you.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭15‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We must always be mindful of giving honor where honor is due.

Thank you Lord!

In the natural, leaders in authority have many demands and responsibilities and are diligent about controlling who has access to them.

Only the vetted or qualified gain access to them – by permission.

Failure to create this “access criteria” can cause the organization’s mission to be thwarted, delayed or compromised if those desiring access are not prepared and adequately equipped for the higher level of thinking, communications and decision making.

Selah

In the Kingdom of God, He simply asks us to seek Him!

The Word of God tells us:

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call on Him [for salvation] while He is near.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. [Deut 4:29, 30]”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

And

““I love those who love me; And those who seek me early and diligently will find me. [1 Sam 2:30; Ps 91:14; John 14:21; James 1:5]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG, thank you Lord!

We are blessed that God provides us with an open invitation, if we would just take the first steps. The Bible says:

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“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

In the end, let us reverently worship our Lord and King while it is yet day!

Let us thank Him for His love and mercy towards us!

Let us thank Him for letting us find Him and we can then say:

“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord, Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“They entered into a covenant (solemn agreement) to seek the Lord God of their fathers with all their heart and soul; and that whoever would not seek the Lord God of Israel, was to be put to death, whether young or old, man or woman.

They swore an oath to the Lord with a loud voice, with [jubilant] shouting, with trumpets, and with horns.

All Judah rejoiced over the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and had sought Him with their whole heart, and He let them find Him. So the Lord gave them rest on every side.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭15‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2ch.15.12-15.AMP

Influence: Gods Way

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 who believe, must be reminded that we have God – given authority to influence any situation.

When we are presented with situations that disturb our peace or challenge our integrity, we only have to decide which tool in our Bible we will leverage!

The Bible tells us in Mathew that:

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whatever you bindand [forbid, declare to be improper and unlawful] on earth shall have [already] been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose [permit, declare lawful] on earth shall have [already] been loosed in heaven. [Matt 16:19]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We also read where in Genesis, we are commanded to take authority over everything in this earth:

“Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬

In Luke, we are instructed to use our power:

“Listen carefully: I have given you authority [that you now possess] to tread on serpents and scorpions, and [the ability to exercise authority] over all the power of the enemy (Satan); and nothing will [in any way] harm you.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Isaiah, we are instructed to turn what seems to be a desolate place into the garden of Eden:

“For the Lord will comfort Zion [in her captivity]; He will comfort all her ruins. And He will make her wilderness like Eden, And her desert like the garden of the Lord; Joy and gladness will be found in her, Thanksgiving and the voice of a melody.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭51‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

No matter whether the situation is because of oppression like Pharaoh, deception or deceit like Laban, threats to our safety and security like the Philistine – the answer is still the same.

“The Lord is high above all nations, And His glory above the heavens.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭113‬:‭4‬ ‭

We are still the head and not the tail, always above and not beneath and we are still called “Blessed”!

“The Lord will make you the head (leader) and not the tail (follower); and you will be above only, and you will not be beneath, if you listen and pay attention to the commandments of the Lord your God, which I am commanding you today, to observe them carefully.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“”You will be blessed in the city, and you will be blessed in the field.

“The offspring of your body and the produce of your ground and the offspring of your animals, the offspring of your herd and the young of your flock will be blessed.

“Your basket and your kneading bowl will be blessed.

“You will be blessed when you come in and you will be blessed when you go out.

“The Lord will cause the enemies who rise up against you to be defeated before you; they will come out against you one way, but flee before you seven ways.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace.

In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous and [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy];

I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank You Lord!

We must remember that: our weapons are spiritual, we speak the truth in love, we pull down strongholds and we cast down imaginations and everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.

The Bible also reminds us that:

“Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬ ‭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

He says:

“‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and tell you [and even show you] great and mighty things, [things which have been confined and hidden], which you do not know and understand and cannot distinguish.’”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭33‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, let us exercise our authority and work the work by faith – “Until the Spirit is poured out upon us from on high, And the wilderness becomes a fertile field, And the fertile field is valued as a forest. [Ps 104:30; Ezek 36:26, 27; 39:29; Zech 12:10]

Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, And righteousness will live in the fertile field.

And the effect of righteousness will be peace, And the result of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever.

Then my people will live in a peaceful surrounding,

And in secure dwellings and in undisturbed resting places.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭32‬:‭15‬-‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus Name, Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭19‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/114/luk.10.19.NKJV

ABIDE

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and my mind just kept returning to and processing the word “Abide” as there is a certain peace that can embrace us, as leaders, when we allow that Word to settle into our spirits. It’s as if our concerns, issues and challenges just dissipate.

Merrrian- Webster defines abide this way:

“to remain stable, continue in a place, or bear patiently, with key connotations of endurance”

In short, resting in Gods presence!

Thank you Jesus.

There are many benefits that accompany our “abiding” in Gods word and therefore His presence. Scripture says it this way:

“Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches.

The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If you remain in Me and My words remain in you [that is, if we are vitally united and My message lives in your heart], ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you.

My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit, and prove yourselves to be My [true] disciples.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG and Thank You Lord!

“Abiding” is a place where inner strength is developed and cultivated.

“Abiding” is a place where the world slows down and clarity is achieved – clear strategies for moving forward are revealed and crystallized.

“Abiding” is a place where our minds and souls are renewed and refreshed with the washing of the Word.

“Abiding” is a place where the toil and tension of striving in battle are able to cease.

In conclusion, it is my sincere desire, prayer and declaration that, we the leaders on this day shall “Abide”, be complete, comforted and at peace in Christ – completely aligned with the Bible which says:

“… Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”

‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬, ‭14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

And Amen!

Be blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples.

And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].””

‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.8.31-32.AMP

But Jonah Ran Away

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that, as leaders, our faith journey requires courage and the need to being comfortable with feeling vulnerable – not in the sense that we are not protected or provided for but because of transparency.

As we grow closer to God, we realize that our decisions made in secret will come to light.

This can be a burden and a blessing in that through our example, others can grow; however, the accountability can be great.

We see an example of this accountability with Jonah as the Bible says that the word of the Lord came to Jonah and instructed him:

““Go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim [judgment] against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” [Gen 10:11, 12]”

“But Jonah ran away to Tarshish to escape from the presence of the Lord [and his duty as His prophet]…

‭‭Jonah‬ ‭1‬:‭2-3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Now many of us, have at one time, felt the same way as Jonah in some area of our lives whether family, health, ministry, or with our community.

Maybe we have even made a similar decision to simply “run away” from the responsibility of our callings for a variety of reasons – all valid in our minds.

So the questions that we must answer are:

“How long will we run and at what cost?”

Are we or do we run because the task seems to great and we don’t feel prepared?

Do we run because we are afraid?

Do we run because we are disobedient or are rejecting our calling/ directive? God forbid!

Regardless of the reason, we must decide in our hearts to “Be Still” and “Stand Strong” in the power of His might.

We must Rise Up oh mighty men of valor !

NOW is the time and NOW is the season to rise up to our greater calling in Christ to do the work that He has called us to do.

Yes, we may feel unskilled for the daunting task but so did Moses. Let him be our example to emulate.

We see with Moses a sense of vulnerability as it relates to leading the children of Israel out of Egypt:

“Therefore, come now, and I will send you to Pharaoh, and then bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” But Moses said to God, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?””

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

At the end of that conversation with God, Moses moved forward with a yes.

We also see an example with Gideon where he felt inadequate and unskilled; yet, at the end of that conversation, the answer was yes.

“And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O brave man.”

The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this strength of yours and save Israel from the hand of Midian. Have I not sent you?”

But Gideon said to Him, “Please Lord, how am I to rescue Israel? Behold, my family is the least [significant] in Manasseh, and I am the youngest (smallest) in my father’s house.””

‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬, ‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Now the contrast comes with Jonah. He had a relationship with God in that the Bible states that he was a prophet. But Jonah’s response was to run – for a season with consequences:

“But Jonah got up and went the other direction to Tarshish, running away from God. He went down to the port of Joppa and found a ship headed for Tarshish. He paid the fare and went on board, joining those going to Tarshish—as far away from God as he could get.”

‭‭Jonah‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭MSG‬‬

We read where Jonah endured many hardships during his season of disobedience.

In conclusion, as leaders, we become tired, weary, confused and maybe even discouraged; but, maturity requires us to grow up.

Leadership will cost us something but the Lord is still faithful towards us.

We will have to deny ourselves and to lay our emotions, feelings, and will at the feet of Jesus as we learn to just trust and obey Him – whole heartedly.

When we do, we will see His glory revealed in our lives!

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, “Go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim [judgment] against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” [Gen 10:11, 12]

But Jonah ran away to Tarshish to escape from the presence of the Lord [and his duty as His prophet].

He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish [the most remote of the Phoenician trading cities].

So he paid the fare and went down into the ship to go with them to Tarshish away from the presence of the Lord. [Gen 4:16; Job 1:12; 2:7]

But the Lord hurled a great wind toward the sea, and there was a violent tempest on the sea so that the ship was about to break up. [Ps 107:23-27]

Then the men became extremely frightened and said to him, “How could you do this?” For the men knew that he was running from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them.”

‭‭Jonah‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭4‬, ‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jon.1.1-4.AMP

I Thank Thee That Thou Hast Heard Me

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 have many dreams, goals and initiatives that seem dead with no viable options to the natural mind – based on what we see.

But I hear the Word of the Lord reminding us that when Jesus arrives and takes charge of the situation even the dead things shall rise again.

All hope may feel lost but in Christ, we have the hope of glory! Old things are passed away and behold all things become brand new.

Thank you Lord!

Maybe we are facing a “Lazarus like”situation today in our family, our health, our minds, our peace, our businesses, our community or even our country.

No matter the challenge and bleakness of the moment, we, the believers, still have hope in Christ – if we faint not in our faith!

Let us be reminded of a “truth” example found in the Bible:

“And when he [Jesus] thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.”

‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭43‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

We can also find comfort in knowing how Jesus was moved in the moment when many were weeping and mourning the death of Lazarus, the scripture says He groaned in the spirit:

“When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,”

‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

This scripture equally validates other scriptures that tells us that we have a high priest who is touched by our infirmities and cares for us – so much so that He even calls us His friend.

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen and at the end of the day or the conclusion of the matter, He is our lifeline that we should hang on to for dear life as our very lives and salvation are dependent on Him and His provision, His comfort, His protection and His love.

So whatever the situation we are facing and no matter how large the giants appear, we still have that blessed hope in Christ Jesus because when He arrives the impossible becomes possible!

Selah

Maybe we are facing what feels like a “dry bones” season and we need a Word from the Lord to strengthen our faith. The Bible reassures us that even then, there is still hope:

“The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones,

and caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry.

And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord GOD, thou knowest.

Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the LORD.

Thus saith the Lord GOD unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live:”

‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭37‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

To God be the glory for all the wonderful things that He has done in our lives and for who He is to us.

Words cannot explain or describe the precious gift that Christ is to those who follow Him.

In conclusion, let us, the leaders, execute upon our right now faith to just trust, obey and praise the King of Kings and Lord of Lords for hearing us and for all of His great and mighty works!

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him! Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid.

And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.

And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.

And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin.

Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.”

‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭36‬, ‭41‬-‭44‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.11.36.KJV

Make the Crooked Places Straight

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea that, as leaders, when we find ourselves in the center of significant changes which are causing us to question our effectiveness or to feel the loss of control, we often yearn for organization to be restored – making us feel successful.

We must learn that elevation is disruptive and stressful until we internally grow and mature to the new level of inner peace – despite the external chaos of the storm.

We can find peace, rest and hope!

“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

With every battle, there are multiple perspectives, strategies and priorities.

Everyone on the team and or in the family may see the change differently despite having the same purpose or goal – to win.

Each will bring their different strategies and tactics based on their understanding; however, when the transition is complete, we all will celebrate together.

The extreme change/ transitions will conjure up emotions of uncertainty and ambiguity, eventually moving to curiosity.

We may also feel a sense of lost organization until we grow to the level of feeling confident and organized again.

The Bible would describe the process as moving from faith to faith:

“For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

During this transition, we must seek out and place our hope on the rock – seeking out sure things (beliefs and principles) in scripture therefore allowing us to stay anchored in Christ.

Through this journey, the Holy Ghost will lead us and guide us into all truth.

The Bible say it this way:

“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭18‬:‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Truly my soul waiteth upon God: From him cometh my salvation.

He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭62‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, we, the leaders have the responsibility to fix our eyes forward, focused on the mark of the higher calling in Christ while doing the work of preparation.

We must daily put on the whole armor of God, search the scripture, receive the revelation knowledge, document our plan and execute the plan for this season!

We must be bold in our actions and take dominion over our emotions, our feelings and the situation – always giving honor and glory to God.

We have to trust the Word, wisdom and plan of God. The Bible states it this way:

“And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

When we successfully execute this daily plan, we will be able to look back and see what the Lord has done and how He has made all our crooked ways- straight!

We praise your name, Jesus!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;

I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron:

and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.

For Jacob my servant’s sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.

I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me.

I am the LORD, and there is none else.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭45‬:‭1‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.45.1-6.KJV

Solution: Prayer and Fasting

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, may find ourselves in an environment that feels unjust or one where excessive demands are expected to produce what feels, to the natural untrained mind, as an impossible task.

Impossible – What is that?

Conditions may be chaotic or even morbid but I hear the word of the Lord saying that He is ruler over all the world, is sovereign and with one touch from Jesus, things change!

The bible tells us that:

“The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭103‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

As leaders and Christ followers, we can be as effective as Jesus – if we prepare and are consecrated. If we are not seeing results, we should pause and reflect like His disciples.

The Bible tells us:

“Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father];”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, anyone who believes in Me [as Savior] will also do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these [in extent and outreach], because I am going to the Father.

And I will do whatever you ask in My name [as My representative], this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified and celebrated in the Son. [Ex 3:14]”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

Let us not get discouraged with where we currently are but we also cannot be complacent and stop growing.

God knows us and is preparing us to do great things.

The Bible say it this way:

““Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.””

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“For You formed my innermost parts; You knit me [together] in my mother’s womb.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin.

Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In conclusion, our responsibility, as leaders, is to continue to receive spiritual guidance and insights – doing our part to strengthen our inner man through fasting and prayer.

When done, we will download Gods wisdom, have the mind of Christ, grow in our spiritual authority and see that all things are working together for our good – by faith!

Let us meditate on these scriptures daily:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report.

Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭3‬, ‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has granted me [the needed] strength and made me able for this, because He considered me faithful and trustworthy, putting me into service [for this ministry],

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Teach me to do Your will [so that I may please You], For You are my God; Let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalms 143:10

“The grace of our Lord [His amazing, unmerited favor and blessing] flowed out in superabundance [for me, together] with the faith and love which are [realized] in Christ Jesus.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him,

Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.

And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them,

This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/mrk.9.23-29.KJV