Are they really the enemy or just our “growth opportunity”?

Are they really the enemy or just our “growth opportunity”?

If he is not against me, then he is for me

When I was reading this passage I was amazed and perplexed by it.

It caused me to pause and to evaluate my assumptions as to who is and should be on my team.

We have a scenario where a man was taking action that appeared to be going against “the plan “.

Sometimes as leaders, we resist ideas from people who may have a different approach or thought pattern than our own.

We may discount their thoughts or ideas because of their delivery method.

The issue may not be that there is an adversarial motive in their heart but that the issue is with us, the leaders.

I am finding that by trying to get to the heart of the person (or the message) there are usually gems of wisdom.

What if we adopted this “If you are not hindering me (active or passive) by default, you are with me”mindset.

It is a game changer and can be so powerful in fostering solutions.

It opens up the window of opportunity for growth and change.

It also may be a salve to soothe our souls.

Be blessed.

“For he who is not against us is for us. [Num. 11:27-29.]”

Mark 9:40 AMPC

I Must

As leaders, we need to be clear about our “Must” items -the nonnegotiables.

I Must

When I was reading this morning, I was amazed at this scripture.

There is so much more to it than I can give it justice but I was moved by the conviction and focus when it said “I Must continue on my way”- which is a mindset of total resolve and commitment.

What was so evident at the time is that this decision was made even in the face of enormous pressure, threats and adversity.

As leaders, we need to be clear about our “Must” items -the nonnegotiables! They may be family, spiritual growth, relationships, finances, sales, personal development, health.

One thing in common is that they mean something to you and not accomplishing them is not an option.

As we close out the year, now is a good time to measure the success of our efforts by our fruit: the results.

Are we pleased with our fruit/ results?

If not, why not?

Is the “must have” still required?

If so, how can you begin again TODAY to finish the year out strong?

How can you move forward toward that “I must”? What one action will make the most difference, TODAY?

I believe we will be rewarded for being relentless and doing the work to change and grow.

Be blessed.

“Nevertheless, I must continue on My way today and tomorrow and the day after that–for it will never do for a prophet to be destroyed away from Jerusalem!”

Luke 13:33 AMPC

Relationship: The Key to Access and Understanding

Relationship: The Key to Access and Understanding

I was studying this morning and I was awed by this passage and the awesome blessings that come along with relationships.

As leaders, we may have many acquaintances or we may be acquaintances to many.

But

There usually are a few key people that we know that progress to the “relationship” stage: the stage where one can say, “ I know them and their character”.

It is there where the secrets are revealed and their deep meanings.

Where not just the answer to a question is shared but the details about the process, the mindset, the pitfalls are identified and advice obtained. We may even be entrusted with the “secret sauce”.

I am finding that in order to achieve this level of “relationship” some of ourselves will have to be given in advance as it is not FREE.

I am reminded that progress is not always linear and as we learn better, we do better.

Be blessed.

“The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him, and He will show them His covenant and reveal to them its [deep, inner] meaning. [John 7:17; 15:15.]”

Psalm 25:14 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/psa.25.14.AMPC