Bible – Page 3 – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

He Refreshes and Restores My Soul

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with my thoughts centered on how we, the leaders, must joyfully pay the price to be the shepherd of God’s precious seed- His people. We must choose to be open, available, disciplined, and “other” centered – being sensitive to the needs of those we lead and influence.

This is only accomplished through a life of sacrifice and prayer – with prayer being THE strategy and differentiator!

Whether the mountain seems small or large, we, the leaders, choose to do the necessary work to build up our faith until the mountain becomes a molehill- in Jesus name.

The Bible anchors our faith when it tells us:

“And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death. [Zech 3:1-10; Rom 8:33, 34]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Then He said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My covenant with you]; that is why you, O sons of Jacob, have not come to an end.”

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

1 Samuel 26:23

The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the LORD gave you into my hand today, and I would not put out my hand against the LORD’s anointed

Selah

How can we pray believing He is God? Come into His presence with boldness knowing Jesus is our advocate!

“….But the righteous are bold as a lion.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“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

“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭20‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower: The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, lets us lift each other up in prayer- interceding until God’s glory is revealed, burdens are removed and the joy is restored:

“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

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; And uphold me with thy free spirit.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭51‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be A Blessing!

“The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], [Ezek 34:11-31] I shall not want.

He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. [Rev 7:17]

He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.23.1-3.AMP

The Son Can Do Nothing of Himself

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea of the criticality of delegated authority for scalable growth, which demands that, we the leaders, stay in alignment with those in authority – whether God or with man.

There is an inherent level of trust and accompanying expectations that we, the leaders, will faithfully execute on our granted authority to achieve the priorities of the granting leader- no matter how difficult the task or road.

There is also a certain “discipline code” that is expected – within which we find order, peace and clarity as a unit.

Communication flows reinforce the rules of the road, the organizational values, the organizational priories and the measures of success.

Scripture describes it best in the example of the Centurion:

“But the centurion replied to Him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed.

For I also am a man subject to authority [of a higher rank], with soldiers subject to me; and I say to one, ‘Go!’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this!’ and he does it.”

Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go; it will be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was restored to health at that very hour.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭8‬-‭9‬, ‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Another biblical example is with Jesus when He says He and His Father are one:

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

I and my Father are one.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬-‭30‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

So, the question we, the leaders face is, How do we tactically execute this alignment plan? Here are some thoughts:

Proactive managing of expectations: we must proactively assess whether our actions align with the explicit and implicit expectations of those in authority.
Learning, documenting and executing daily adjustments will position us for success; however, it may not guarantee our success.
Energy management: navigating the mental, physical and emotional resistance of change (whether small or large) is necessary. It can become a distraction if it persists. We must overcome it.
Lastly, we must relentlessly measure our success with our fruit (results):

“Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭16‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In conclusions, let us be known as leaders who are diligent and focused on the ethical and legal priorities of those in authority:

“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; He shall not stand before mean men.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬, ‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“So Jesus answered them by saying, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself [of His own accord], unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever things the Father does, the Son [in His turn] also does in the same way.

For the Father dearly loves the Son and shows Him everything that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will be filled with wonder.

Just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life [and allows them to live on], even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes.

For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment [that is, the prerogative of judging] to the Son [placing it entirely into His hands],

so that all will give honor (reverence, homage) to the Son just as they give honor to the Father. [In fact] the one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who has sent Him.”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.5.20.AMP

The Invalid…The Man

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with a grieving heart and the thought that, we the leaders, must be reminded and believe that when Jesus comes into our situation – things change.

We may be in a season of significant change or even loss; however, it is in these moments we must work harder to hold onto our faith foundation. – the answer still is Christ, and Christ alone!

“For there is [only] one God, and [only] one Mediator between God and mankind, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom [a substitutionary sacrifice to atone] for all, the testimony given at the right and proper time.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG

What we do know in scripture is that Jesus has already made provision for us:

“Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬, ‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭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

“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

“the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭ESV‬‬

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭57‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Selah

As we work through the grieving process, we are reminded that the Word of god is true and ever present:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall read [and meditate on] it day and night, so that you may be careful to do [everything] in accordance with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will be successful.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, grief may not have an expiration date; however, whenever we are ready to let Christ into our circumstances, like the invalid, Christ just asks us if we want to get well:

When Jesus noticed him lying there [helpless], knowing that he had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to get well?”

And when the master speaks, let us rise and be made whole – like the man:

“Jesus said to him, “Get up; pick up your pallet and walk.” Immediately the man was healed and recovered his strength, and picked up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath.”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“In these porticoes lay a great number of people who were sick, blind, lame, withered, [waiting for the stirring of the water;

for an angel of the Lord went down into the pool at appointed seasons and stirred up the water; the first one to go in after the water was stirred was healed of his disease.]

There was a certain man there who had been ill for thirty-eight years.

When Jesus noticed him lying there [helpless], knowing that he had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to get well?”

The invalid answered, “Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am coming [to get into it myself], someone else steps down ahead of me.”

Jesus said to him, “Get up; pick up your pallet and walk.”

Immediately the man was healed and recovered his strength, and picked up his pallet and walked.

Now that day was the Sabbath.

So the Jews kept saying to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath, and you are not permitted to pick up your pallet [because it is unlawful].”

He answered them, “The Man who healed me and gave me back my strength was the

One who said to me, ‘Pick up your pallet and walk.’ ”

They asked him, “Who is the Man who told you, ‘Pick up your pallet and walk’?”

Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had slipped away [unnoticed] since there was a crowd in that place.

Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.””

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.5.3-14.AMP

I Remember Your Sincere and Unqualified Faith

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 cherish and remain steadfast in honoring legacy traditions that have preserved us over the generations.

It is this continuity of values and beliefs that has and holds families, companies, neighborhoods and churches together.

Scripture tells us:

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Often, we the leaders, find ourselves in difficult situations that seem to have manifested overnight and have a life of their own.

Even after we take many actions, the situation does not appear to get better- but worst.

It is at these moments, we must decide to embrace the core values that informed, strengthened and empowered those that came before us – believing and knowing that God is still on the throne and all things are still working together for our good!

We know, by promise, God is working on our behalf:

“When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities [those supernatural forces of evil operating against us], He made a public example of them [exhibiting them as captives in His triumphal procession], having triumphed over them through the cross.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We know trouble does not last always and there is joy in the morning:

“For our momentary, light distress [this passing trouble] is producing for us an eternal weight of glory [a fullness] beyond all measure [surpassing all comparisons, a transcendent splendor and an endless blessedness]!

So we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are unseen; for the things which are visible are temporal [just brief and fleeting], but the things which are invisible are everlasting and imperishable.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

No matter the situation, we can still thrive because of Christ in us:

“‘Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’ [Acts 18:10]

“Indeed, all those who are angry with you will be put to shame and humiliated; Those who strive against you will be as nothing and will perish.

“You shall search for those who quarrel with you, but will not find them; They who war against you will be as nothing, as nothing at all.

“For I the Lord your God keep hold of your right hand; [I am the Lord], Who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.’”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭41‬:‭10‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In closing, let’s remember the words of a poem which said: “Rest if you must but don’t you quit”.

It is even better said in the scriptures:

“Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest [of God, to know and experience it for ourselves], so that no one will fall by following the same example of disobedience [as those who died in the wilderness].

For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us rejoice and worship the Lord in our most unqualified faith and shout:

“Blessed be the name of the Lord From this time forth and forever.

From the rising of the sun to its setting The name of the Lord is to be praised [with awe-inspired reverence].

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭113‬:‭2‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“I thank God, whom I worship and serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day,

and as I recall your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy.

I remember your sincere and unqualified faith [the surrendering of your entire self to God in Christ with confident trust in His power, wisdom and goodness, a faith] which first lived in [the heart of] your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am confident that it is in you as well.

That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment] which is in you through the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2ti.1.3-7.AMP

But a Time is Coming and is Already Here

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that often, we leaders, can be snared by the traps of the enemy – even when we are trying to do things god’s way.

We can be entrapped with our words spoken in innocence or ignorance and/ or because of past decisions or deeds – even when they are based out of love.

The entrapment can be accompanied by a sense of shame or regret if we allow it to persist. The end game of the enemy is often to have us, the free in Christ, to be bound by condemnation and ineffectiveness. No more!

The Bible tells us that enemy is an accuser of the brethren:

“And the great dragon was thrown down, the age-old serpent who is called the devil and Satan, he who continually deceives and seduces the entire inhabited world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. [Gen 3:1, 14, 15; Zech 3:1; John 13:2; 2 Cor 11:3; Rev 20:8]

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom (dominion, reign) of our God, and the authority of His Christ have come; for the accuser of our [believing] brothers and sisters has been thrown down [at last], he who accuses them and keeps bringing charges [of sinful behavior] against them before our God day and night. [Job 1:6-11]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

But I am so grateful for the next verse which broke something in my spirit and released all pain and hurt from my soul:

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

The Bible tells us that:

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

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change And though the mountains be shaken and slip into the heart of the seas,

Though its waters roar and foam, Though the mountains tremble at its roaring. Selah.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When adversity does not feel justified, we still must praise and worship the God of the heavens and the earth. We must worship Him in spirit (love) and in truth.

When we do this, the Holy Spirit empowers us to love those who are liars, back stabbers and who conjur up evil continually.

Scripture reminds us of our journey which helps us be grateful for His mercy:

“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 is our Advocate:

“My little children (believers, dear ones), I am writing you these things so that you will not sin and violate God’s law. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate [who will intercede for us] with the Father: Jesus Christ the righteous [the upright, the just One, who conforms to the Father’s will in every way—purpose, thought, and action].”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Christ is our Refuge:

“I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust [with great confidence, and on whom I rely]!””

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, let us surrender and declare that our souls are anchored in the Lord:

“This hope [this confident assurance] we have as an anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whatever pressure bears upon it]—a safe and steadfast hope that enters within the veil [of the heavenly temple, that most Holy Place in which the very presence of God dwells], [Lev 16:2]”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we do, we know that:

“The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold [our refuge, our high tower]. Selah.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit [from the heart, the inner self] and in truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers.

God is spirit [the Source of life, yet invisible to mankind], and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.””

‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.4.23-24.AMP

For The Famine is Very Severe in Canaan

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, really need to fall in love again with the Word of God because it gives life – even long life- to us who believe. We choose to receive His promises, by faith, despite our present challenges!

What is clear in these passages is that, Canaan, the promised land that once flowed with milk and honey is experiencing a severe famine (Deuteronomy 26:9; Genesis‬ ‭47‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬).

Even with the external realities of a famine, The Blessing of Abraham was still on the lives of Jacob and his sons – Abraham’s seed:

“indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed like the stars of the heavens and like the sand on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies [by conquering them]. [Heb 6:13, 14; 11:12]

Through your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have heard and obeyed My voice.”]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Today, we qualify as the seed of Abraham through Christ:

“in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might also come to the Gentiles, so that we would all receive [the realization of] the promise of the [Holy] Spirit through faith.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

The Bible also promises us a long satisfied life in Psalms 91:

“Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

With long life will I satisfy him, And shew him my salvation.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭91‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

Today, let us be reminded that the earth is still the Lords and the fullness thereof, His mercy still endures forever and His plan to make us a great nation is still in effect:

“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness of it, The world, and those who dwell in it. [1 Cor 10:26]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness (graciousness, mercy, compassion) endures forever.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭136‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you [abundantly], And make your name great (exalted, distinguished); And you shall be a blessing [a source of great good to others];

And I will bless (do good for, benefit) those who bless you, And I will curse [that is, subject to My wrath and judgment] the one who curses (despises, dishonors, has contempt for) you. And in you all the families (nations) of the earth will be blessed.” [Gal 3:8]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We just need to continue to learn of Him through His Word, praise Him through the challenges and rest in His provisions:

“Bless and affectionately praise the Lord, O my soul, And all that is [deep] within me, bless His holy name.

Bless and affectionately praise the Lord, O my soul, And do not forget any of His benefits;”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. [Jer 6:16]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭29‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then Joseph came and told Pharaoh, “My father and my brothers, with their flocks and their herds and all that they own, have come from the land of Canaan, and they are in the land of Goshen.”

He took five men from among his brothers and presented them to Pharaoh.

And Pharaoh said to his brothers [as Joseph expected], “What is your occupation?” And they said to Pharaoh, “Your servants are shepherds, both we and our fathers [before us].”

Moreover, they said to Pharaoh, “We have come to live temporarily (sojourn) in the land [of Egypt], for there is no pasture for the flocks of your servants [in our land], for the famine is very severe in Canaan. So now, please let your servants live in the land of Goshen.”

Then Pharaoh spoke to Joseph, saying, “Your father and your brothers have come to you.

The land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and your brothers in the best of the land. Let them live in the land of Goshen; and if you know of any men of ability among them, put them in charge of my livestock.”

Then Joseph brought Jacob (Israel) his father and presented him before Pharaoh; and Jacob blessed Pharaoh.

And Pharaoh asked Jacob, “How old are you?””

Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. Few and unpleasant have been the years of my life, and they have not reached the years that my fathers lived during the days of their pilgrimage.”

And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and departed from his presence.

So Joseph settled his father and brothers and gave them a possession in Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses (Goshen), as Pharaoh commanded.

Joseph provided and supplied his father and his brothers and all his father’s household with food, according to [the needs of] their children.

Now [in the course of time] there was no food in all the land, for the famine was distressingly severe, so that the land of Egypt and all the land of Canaan languished [in destitution and starvation] because of the famine.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭47‬:‭1‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/gen.47.13.AMP

The Lord Has Made Room For Us

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that even in a time of famine and increased strife, we, the leaders, must pursue peace and Gods purposes and allow Him to place us where we need to be to thrive.

The Bible says:

“And Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. The Lord blessed him, and the man became rich, and gained more and more until he became very wealthy.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬

The Message translation says:

“…The man got richer and richer by the day until he was very wealthy. He accumulated flocks and herds and many, many servants, so much so that the Philistines began to envy him…”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Richer and richer by the day even in the midst of a famine?

We must get the revelation that there is an unlimited heavenly supply in the invisible realm just awaiting us to match our faith with the Word of god.

Scripture tells us:

““Now it shall be, if you diligently listen to and obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all of His commandments which I am commanding you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you pay attention to the voice of the Lord your God.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The Bible also tells us:

“For God shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another]. [Deut 10:17; 2 Chr 19:7]”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭2‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My covenant with you]; that is why you, O sons of Jacob, have not come to an end.”

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Whether we desire seeds of love, hope,innovative strategies, breakthroughs from prayers, revelations, health, healing, strength, closer families, finances, joy, influence, provision, kindness, generosity, and or peace – they are ours!

While we grow our faith to believe, we also must work to forgive and show love:

“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬, ‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

I declare that today begins a season of new beginnings!

Let, us leaders, dare once again to believe God for something miraculous.

Let us name them one by one as we write them down as an expression of our faith.

I believe that if we do these things in accordance with Gods will and His Word, our harvests will be so great that God will make room for us so that we can serve his people, heal the land and His glory will be revealed.

Will you believe and agree with me?

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. The Lord blessed him,

and the man became rich, and gained more and more until he became very wealthy.

He had possessions of flocks and herds and many servants, so that the Philistines envied him.

(Now the Philistines had stopped and filled with earth all the wells that his father’s servants had dug in the days of Abraham his father.)

And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.”

So Isaac departed from there and encamped in the Valley of Gerar and settled there.

And Isaac dug again the wells of water that had been dug in the days of Abraham his father, which the Philistines had stopped after the death of Abraham. And he gave them the names that his father had given them.

But when Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and found there a well of spring water,

the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac’s herdsmen, saying, “The water is ours.” So he called the name of the well Esek, because they contended with him.

Then they dug another well, and they quarreled over that also, so he called its name Sitnah.

And he moved from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. So he called its name Rehoboth, saying, “For now the Lord has made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭22‬ ‭ESV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/59/gen.26.12-22.ESV

The Earth is Full of His Lovingkindness

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must work to accept the Word that “His Lovingkindness fills the earth” – despite what we see everyday.

The magnitude of recent events are hard to comprehend: the increasing number of conflicts and wars, ever present arguments between men, demonstrated divisive and deceptive behaviors being observed, rising tides of anger, intolerance and hatred.

OMG

With all this happening, how can the scripture tell us that “His Lovingkindness fills the earth?”

Selah

The Bible tells us that all scripture is given by inspiration of God who is sovereign, all knowing and full of truth:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We then read in Psalms 33:4 that the Word of the Lord is right – which settles the question of how can this be possible:

“For the word of the Lord is right; And all His work is done in faithfulness.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭33‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Knowing that lovingkindness is here, it is our responsibility, as the leaders to search for, find it and walk in it – with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Scripture guides us:

“He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you Except to be just, and to love [and to diligently practice] kindness (compassion), And to walk humbly with your God [setting aside any overblown sense of importance or self-righteousness]? [Deut 10:12, 13]”

‭‭Micah‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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

“¶The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.

The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works [the entirety of things created].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭145‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His compassion and lovingkindness endure forever!”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭107‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Though these are difficult days, let us, the leaders, see with our spiritual eyes and press into the presence of Christ. It is in His presence we will find and bathe in the lovingkindness of God.

“Through Him, therefore, let us at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. [Lev 7:12; Is 57:19; Hos 14:2]”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Sing to Him a new song; Play skillfully [on the strings] with a loud and joyful sound.

For the word of the Lord is right; And all His work is done in faithfulness.

He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the lovingkindness of the Lord.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭33‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.33.3-5.AMP

He Comforts and Encourages the Depressed and the Disquieted

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and my heart and mind began to reflect on the “regrets” of life that we, the leaders, often experience from time to time.

We work daily to walk in the joy of the lord; however, there are times or seasons where we notice “how life” could have been different if we had made better choices.

Some of our choices may have caused us to sin; yet others may have simply been a “bad decision” to neglect something/ someone valuable.

Either way, we can recognize the mistake and begin, today, to take actions to get things back on track.

Failure to do so can have lasting consequences – maybe even eternal.

We see in the scriptures where Gods disciples, who were in the field doing God’s work, were struggling like some of us are today.

“For even when we arrived in Macedonia our bodies had no rest, but we were oppressed at every turn—conflicts and disputes without, fears and dread within.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

There is good news! The Bible tells us that there is nothing new under the sun and God still comforts:

“That which has been is that which will be [again], And that which has been done is that which will be done again. So there is nothing new under the sun.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But God, who comforts and encourages the depressed and the disquieted, comforted us …..”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Our God loves and care for us so much that he has already made provision for these moments. Scripture reassures us:

“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you [making you what you ought to be].

To Him be dominion (power, authority, sovereignty) forever and ever. Amen.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As leaders, we must be encouraged and not allow another day to end where we are carrying this burden of regret. We are only a decision away from freedom!

The scripture shows us:

“If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let today be the day of salvation.

Satan, we plead the blood of Jesus over every leader and their families. We bind the spirit of regret and declare that we are all free in Christ. In Jesus Name.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“For even when we arrived in Macedonia our bodies had no rest, but we were oppressed at every turn—conflicts and disputes without, fears and dread within.

But God, who comforts and encourages the depressed and the disquieted, comforted us by the arrival of Titus.

And not only by his arrival, but also by [his account of] the encouragement which he received in regard to you. He told us about your longing [for us], your mourning [over sin], and how eagerly you took my part and supported me, so that I rejoiced even more.

For even though I did grieve you with my letter, I do not regret it [now]; though I did regret it—for I see that the letter hurt you, though only for a little while—

yet I am glad now, not because you were hurt and made sorry, but because your sorrow led to repentance [and you turned back to God]; for you felt a grief such as God meant you to feel, so that you might not suffer loss in anything on our account.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭5‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2co.7.5-9.AMP

The People I Love, I Call to Account

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must be mindful of the “temperature” of our relationship with Christ.

Without adequate attention on a daily basis, the relationship that was once a flame of fire can become subdued and lukewarm.

One day, we may look up and realize that somehow, we have veered off course and something is just “missing”.

Yes, we may look at our sermon notes and highlights in our bibles as evidence of previous progress on this journey- which is good and can be a demonstration of past activities taken; however, we may have a growing sense in our heart that something is off course today.

The Bible reminds us that we must die daily and take up our cross to pursue Christ.

“And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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

Selah

When we find that our spiritual candle is becoming dim, we still have the opportunity to confess our sins and fears and to make the needed adjustments in our lives today, for success!

We can start by placing a new log on the fire: forgiveness, faith, commitment, prayer, fasting, meditation on the word and praise – these daily activities will rekindle the flame that once burned bright.

The subtle danger we face is to discount the warning signs from the Holy Spirit- who has been given to us freely from Christ.

“But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him (the Holy Spirit) to you [to be in close fellowship with you].

And He, when He comes, will convict the world about [the guilt of] sin [and the need for a Savior], and about righteousness, and about judgment:

about sin [and the true nature of it], because they do not believe in Me [and My message];

about righteousness [personal integrity and godly character], because I am going to My Father and you will no longer see Me;

about judgment [the certainty of it], because the ruler of this world (Satan) has been judged and condemned.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In closing, no matter the situation we find ourselves in, we are NEVER out of the reach of His magnificent grace and there is still a restorative path home!

This is proof in the Word of God:

“No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy].

Therefore, my beloved, run [keep far, far away] from [any sort of] idolatry [and that includes loving anything more than God, or participating in anything that leads to sin and enslaves the soul].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

With Gods help, I believe and decree that we, the leaders, will find our way back to the highway to holiness when we veer off course.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit.

You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.

“Here’s what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire. Then you’ll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You’ve gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see, really see.

“The people I love, I call to account—prod and correct and guide so that they’ll live at their best. Up on your feet, then! About face! Run after God!

“Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you. Conquerors will sit alongside me at the head table, just as I, having conquered, took the place of honor at the side of my Father. That’s my gift to the conquerors!

“Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches.””

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬-‭22‬ ‭MSG‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/97/rev.3.15-22.MSG