Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Try Again

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, often face critical decision points in life.

Despite our present adversity, what we see and what we feel, we must choose today to simply trust God, believe and just “try again”!

Life, with all of its twists and turns can sometimes leave us with questions. We may be wondering and reflecting on:

How did we arrive at our current destination in life?

How did we miss seeing our current challenge approaching us?

What could we have done differently to achieve a better outcome than the one we have today?

Selah

Others in our circle of influence may believe that the root cause is sin, but that may not be true.

Sometimes it is discouragement or the recognition of our mortality and that our previous decisions did not yield the ideal outcomes.

No matter the journey, we can find ourselves suddenly in a place where we feel we have more questions than answers.

The Bible describes it this way:

“We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair;

hunted down and persecuted, but not deserted [to stand alone]; struck down, but never destroyed;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Let us be encouraged today as in Christ we still have options!

We can follow the instructions in the Bible which says:

“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

“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

Amen

By seeking comfort and renewal in the presence of Christ, we can be empowered with renewed energy, strength and purpose.

He tells us in His Word:

““Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If thou faint in the day of adversity, Thy strength is small.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But the one who endures and bears up [under suffering] to the end will be saved.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In conclusion, as leaders, we must remind ourselves that in Christ, we have everything we need and have all sufficiency.

Here are a few parting scriptures from the Bible:

“Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness].

For He says, “At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, And I helped you on the day of salvation.” Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation”— [Is 49:8]”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Commit your way to the Lord; Trust in Him also and He will do it.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen and to God be the Glory as we try, again!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.

Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/59/pro.16.2-3.ESV

Order My Steps in Thy Word

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 have a proven strategy for addressing conflicts that are steeling our joy.

These conflicts can show up in many forms: an attack on our values, our peace, our ideas, our relationships, our calling and or our health.

The question becomes: What actions should we take, when should these actions be taken and how do we meet the moment in a Christ edifying way?

Yes, we live in a world where others openly share their opinions, beliefs or their experienced facts and others bombard us with studies and data that are or may be factual; however, the real and true work for us is sorting through all of this noise and pressing in to find, recognize and hold onto the wisdom and truths of the Word of God.

Selah

Let us be encouraged in these moments as we fight the good fight of faith. The Bible provides us with foundational truths on which to build and rest:

“Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:

that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

As leaders, we must be clear that we are the initiators of the process. Here are a couple of approaches laid out in the Bible:

““Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold [our refuge, our high tower]. Selah.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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 ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For thou art my rock and my fortress; Therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me. Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for me: For thou art my strength. Into thine hand I commit my spirit: Thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭31‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Once we imitate the engagement, we continue to find guidance on how to walk the journey with Christ. The Bible guides us by saying:

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: And he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: For the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore. [Acts 2:25-28, 31]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭16‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But speaking the truth in love [in all things—both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow up in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head—Christ.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Speak, Lord!

In conclusion, it is my prayer that we, the leaders, will be encouraged and continue to strive daily to be centered in Christ – where we will find the fullness of joy:

“How lovely are Your dwelling places, O Lord of hosts!

My soul (my life, my inner self) longs for and greatly desires the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God.

The bird has found a house, And the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young— Even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, My King and my God.

Blessed and greatly favored are those who dwell in Your house and Your presence; They will be singing Your praises all the day long. Selah.

Blessed and greatly favored is the man whose strength is in You, In whose heart are the highways to Zion.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭84‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord for ordering my steps.

In Jesus Name, Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Order my steps in thy word: And let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

Deliver me from the oppression of man: So will I keep thy precepts.

Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; And teach me thy statutes.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭119‬:‭133‬-‭135‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.119.133-135.KJV

Break Up Your Fallow Ground

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 periodically take an honest inventory of ourselves and assess where we truly stand on the outcomes that really matter. We are either progressing toward or digressing from our desired goals and objectives.

In the daily grind, it is possible to get lost or off track with our progress and we may find that we have not steered our ship well, for a season, and the realities are, we are not where we need to be!

This moment is a hard place to be as many questions will arise and there can be significant remorse and lamenting; however, at the end of the day, we are left with basically two choices- make corrections and move forward or stay the course and not make meaningful progress.

We can find guidance and encouragement in the Bible that says:

“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.”

‭‭Hosea‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

Marriam-Webster defines fallow as: “A period of inactivity, dormancy, or lack of achievement”; “cultivated land that is allowed to lie idle, unseeded, or unplanted during the growing season. In agricultural practice, this deliberate resting period allows the soil to retain moisture and regenerate vital nutrients before it is planted again.”

We must recognize that in this pivotal moment, we may feel overwhelm, grief, disappointment, anguish, disbelief, or even frustration but the good news is that we are never alone!

We just need to lift up our heads towards heaven for guidance and help!

The Bible instructs and informs us to:

“Lift up your heads, O gates, And be lifted up, ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭20‬B KJV‬‬

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Today is a day anew! The sun will rise again and extend us new mercies. Scripture says it this way:

“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]

“The Lord is my portion and my inheritance,” says my soul; “Therefore I have hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.” [Num 18:20]”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…He who rules over men righteously, Who rules in the fear of God, Is like the morning light when the sun rises, A morning without clouds, When the fresh grass springs out of the earth Through sunshine after rain.’

“Truly is not my house so [blessed] with God? For He has made an everlasting covenant with me, Ordered in all things, and secured.

For will He not cause to grow and prosper All my salvation and my every wish? Will He not make it grow and prosper?”

‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭23‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, it is my sincere prayer that today, we will not get discouraged but walk in the new mercies given unto us today.

Let us continue to sow seeds of life from the Word of God into our hearts so that in due season, God will get all the glory!

In Jesus name, Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Sow with a view to righteousness [that righteousness, like seed, may germinate]; Reap in accordance with mercy and lovingkindness. Break up your uncultivated ground, For it is time to seek and search diligently for the Lord [and to long for His blessing] Until He comes to rain righteousness and His gift of salvation on you. [2 Cor 9:10]

You have plowed and planted wickedness, you have reaped the [willful] injustice [of oppressors], You have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your own way and your chariots, and in your many warriors,”

‭‭Hosea‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/hos.10.12-13.AMP

Overcome Evil with Good

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 make a conscious decision daily to live by our biblical constitution – to show grace and to extend mercy toward those we work with, live with and interface with on any given day.

We live in a season where we may find ourselves in disagreement with the beliefs and/ or decisions of those in leadership; however, we must remind ourselves that, as believers, we are not without power and we have influencing tools at our disposal.

For those changes that are happening within our work, community, churches and family that do not line up with the Word of God, we have the responsibility to take authority and to not sit in the seat of the scornful – which hurts us.

The Bible says it this way:

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, Nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬ ‭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

“The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭10‬:‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“He who covers and forgives an offense seeks love, But he who repeats or gossips about a matter separates intimate friends.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭17‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Let us choose the better way and follow the example of Jesus – pouring our energies into becoming more like Him.

The Bible reminds us of that way:

“The highway of the upright turns away and departs from evil; He who guards his way protects his life (soul). Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If you have foolishly exalted yourself, Or if you have plotted evil, put your hand on your mouth. [Job 21:5; 40:4]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30‬:‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, we must pay the price of sacrifice to walk in love so that we may dwell in God’s tabernacle. The Bible says it this way:

“LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?

He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.

He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, Nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Thank you Lord for teaching us how to overcome evil with good.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭17‬-‭21‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/rom.12.17-21.KJV

When That Which is Complete and Perfect Comes

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea that we, the leaders, live in a world that is rapidly changing as man strives to quench his insatiable appetite for knowledge, growth, exploration and achievement.

The reality is that in the natural realm, every level of achievement has downside risks and side effects that can trouble us in our minds, bodies and or our spirits – whether due to malice or ignorance.

The Bible reminds us of our provision – that is already provided:

“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Now behold, I have made you today like a fortified city and like an iron pillar and like bronze walls against the whole land—against the [successive] kings of Judah, against its leaders, against its priests, and against the people of the land [giving you divine strength which no hostile power can overcome]. [Is 50:7; 54:17; Jer 6:27; 15:20; Luke 21:15; Acts 6:10]

They will fight against you, but they will not [ultimately] prevail over you, for I am with you [always] to protect you and deliver you,” says the Lord.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Oh My Lord!

Unless man’s vision, knowledge and wisdom is divinely given or revealed, the success and achievement is ultimately limited.

We must let our hearts be encouraged and our spirits lifted today as we travel this journey of change and shifts that can feel exhausting as we know and can trust that there is hope in Christ.

What we do also know from the Bible is:

“But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

OMG!

In conclusion, let us be reminded that we have been equipped with the Holy Spirit to empower and sustain us. Let us daily continue to walk in and exhibit the love of Christ.

Scripture says it this way:

“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 ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen.

When Christ, who is perfect, enters into any situation, all crooked places will be made straight and He will get the glory, in Jesus Name. Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing !

“Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away.

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part [for our knowledge is fragmentary and incomplete].

But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away.

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.

For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face.

Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God].

And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.13.8-13.AMP

Enduring Love

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that, as leaders, though we strive to emulate the values and purposes of Christ, we do not always meet the mark.

Our daily efforts in prayer, meditation and fasting helps us to build up our most holy faith – yet we stumble.

The Bible says:

“For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, But the wicked stumble in time of disaster and collapse. [Job 5:19; Ps 34:19; 37:24; Mic 7:8]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The Lord is near to the heartbroken And He saves those who are crushed in spirit (contrite in heart, truly sorry for their sin).

Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, But the Lord rescues him from them all.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

When we miss the holiness mark, we must recognize the error, repent and remind ourselves that:

“This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe [and trust in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s Son].

There is no distinction, [1 Cor 12:13; Gal 3:28] since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God,”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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 ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen.

Therefore, when we fall short, let us not wallow in condemnation but repent, receive correction and look upward towards Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

The Bible says it this way:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“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

“And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.””

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Yes Lord!

In conclusion, let us be reminded and encouraged by God’s faithfulness and promises. He sent us Jesus and the love of Christ never fails:

“Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.

But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.”

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And

Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen and Glory to Your Name Jesus for loving us so much.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“You must submit to [correction for the purpose of] discipline; God is dealing with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? Now if you are exempt from correction and without discipline, in which all [of God’s children] share, then you are illegitimate children and not sons [at all].

Moreover, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we submitted and respected them [for training us]; shall we not much more willingly submit to the Father of spirits, and live [by learning from His discipline]?

For our earthly fathers disciplined us for only a short time as seemed best to them; but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems sad and painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness [right standing with God and a lifestyle and attitude that seeks conformity to God’s will and purpose].”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/heb.12.7-11.AMP

Blessed…But

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and wrestling with the thought that we, the leaders, must understand, appreciate and value the idea that consistency matters!

It is so easy to allow ourselves to become distracted and enticed by or misdirected towards thoughts, actions or behaviors that are not edifying or maybe even harmful.

God forbid!

The Bible warns us of these risks:

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And

“Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers).”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

We must learn to cherish consistency as it can be a complacency shield for us. The Bible says it this way:

“I assure you, believers, by the pride which I have in you in [your union with] Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily [I face death and die to self].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭ KJV‬‬

“So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Also, we learn and come to appreciate how consistency provides daily nourishment and direction:

“‘Give us this day our daily bread.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In conclusion, let us be mindful this day to guard our hearts against the thoughts and actions that can cause us to one day look up and feel like a ship without a sail.

“And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭27‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Let us instead be consistent in delighting ourselves day and night in the law of the Lord as it is there the anointing of Christ flows unencumbered and freely:

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…I am your shield; Your reward [for obedience] shall be very great.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬ B AMP‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. [Rom 13:8-10; Gal 3:1-29; 2 Tim 3:16]

And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season; Its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity]. [Jer 17:7, 8]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.1.1-3.AMP

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